Scary Songs – Leave the Lights On!

BOO!

Now that you’re sufficiently on edge, lets talk scary music! So when people think music, “scary” isn’t usually the first word that comes to mind, right? Well the magical thing about music is that it is capable of invoking any kind of emotion. In horror movies a soundtrack is particularly important to the overall impact of what’s happening on screen. The music helps to create atmosphere which allows for a deeper emotional response

Example you say?

Take this video by YouTuber and filmaker, Bobby Burns.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9eD2UpdhbwA

 

Add a Gothic filter, some chilling music (yes that was a pun); and Voilà! Disney’s hit film “Frozen” makes your hair stand on end, and your blood run cold. (Okay I’ll stop)

I know you’re interested right? So in honor of the Halloween season, lets take a look at some of the ‘scariest’ music out there!

Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds – “Song of Joy” 1996

Contrary to it’s lighthearted title, Nick Cave’s “Song of Joy” is a dark and eerie piece from his album “Murder Ballads”..Equally dark and eerie. It chronicles a mysterious man who, on a cold winter night, chooses a house at random to seek shelter. He tells the story of a murderer, and the gruesome crimes in which he committed. The lyrics are beautifully poetic, but if I were the dude listening to his story. . . I probably wouldn’t let him in.

Radiohead – “Climbing Up the Walls” 1997

When you think Radiohead, you think of music that is utterly haunting. Probably best known for their song Creep, Radiohead has remained relevant through the years with music that is so masterful in form and execution, it still can’t be topped. One song that stands out in particular in my quest for ‘scary’ is “Climbing Up the Walls” from their album “OK COMPUTER”. A song that is presented from the point of view of . . . well a murderous psychopath. The lyrics are so intense that it feels as though you’re looking directly into the mind of someone truly disturbed.

The Beatles – “Revolution 9” 1968

Okay so this one is just weird and creepy, not simply because of the song itself, but because of its place in history. This experimental sound collage by The Beatles apparently inspired cult leader Charles Manson to commit the atrocities he did, due to some strange interpretation he had of the piece.

Randy Newman – “In Germany Before the War” 1977

Randy Newman is probably best known for his work in various Pixar films; (“Toy Story”, “A Bugs Life”, “Monsters Inc”, Etc.) Before that however, Newman wrote some pretty harrowing pieces. I chose to add “In Germany Before the War” because of how genuinely powerful, and very real, the emotions that are evoked from this song seem to be. On the surface, this song is about the “Düsseldorf Ripper”, a serial killer of children who was at large in 1931. Going even deeper, it is a powerful metaphor for a country about to enter a period more horrific than any form of media could possibly conjure. The melody of this song is absolutely chilling, and I can’t listen to it without getting some serious goosebumps.

Joseph Bishara – “Insidious” 2011

Okay I hope you didn’t listen to that with headphones in. . . Oh wait – Yes I do! I’m insidious like that. (Sorry, I said I’d stop…I lied.)

Insidious, though receiving mixed reviews, it was positively received overall due to its fresh take on a been there done that genre. No matter how you felt about the movie, you can’t deny that the soundtrack was absolutely terrifying. Most of the score was actually improvised, with a sort of atonal screeching of the violins to put you on edge, and sudden bangs on the keys of a piano to really make your heart pounce.  Composer, Joseph Bishara, did an amazing job at creating a tense and suspenseful atmosphere. (Fun fact: Bishara also plays the red faced demon in the film.)

Giuseppe Tartini – “Devil’s Trill Sonata” 1713 – 1740 (Exact date unknown)

So I felt I needed to add a little classical to the compilation. This masterpiece is by the Italian Baroque Composer, Tartini; a violinist known for his incredible technique. There is so much mystique to this song and its creation that it definitely gets a place on the list. The legend goes that Tartini was visited by the Devil in his dreams, in which he made a contract with the entity, that it would be at his service on all occasions. In order to see what kind of musician he was, Tartini handed the Devil his violin. What followed was a sonata so absolutely beautiful that it left Tartini breathless. A song that surpassed anything he had ever heard or could possibly imagine. When he awoke he grabbed his fiddle and desperately attempted to recreate the piece he had heard in his dreams. The result was his greatest work, the “Devil’s Trill Sonata”. However, Tartini found his piece to be so inferior to the song in his dreams, that he was tempted to destroy his fiddle and leave the world of music forever. Over the years, the sonata and its composer have been stooped in mystery, and only a violinist of virtuosic skill could possibly play a piece so ‘devilishly’ difficult. Take a listen (I mean REALLY listen), and its supernatural origins will seem very real.

Cover by Hit House (Original by Duran Duran) – “Ordinary World” 2017

Okay I got a little carried away on the last dude, so here is a cool one. “Ordinary World” is a song by Duran Duran released in 1993, Essentially it’s about dealing with the loss of someone you love, and learning how to cope and move on with life. Recently it was used as the theme song for the Horror Survival game “The Evil Within 2“, where it has been reworked by Hit House to create a more eerie and menacing twist to the song. In the context of the game, the words become very literal, as the protagonist must overcome the ghosts of his past, traverse a nightmarish world to find his daughter, and return to the peaceful life he once knew. “And as I try to make my way / To the ordinary world / I will learn to survive”.

 

This list could go on and on, but I think I’m gonna end it here. . . Cause I’m writing this at 3 in the morning, It’s storming outside, and I’m pretty sure I heard something in the other room.

Got some songs you find scary? Let us know in the comments!

Got some topics you’d like to see us tackle? Let us know in the comments!

I guess what I’m trying to say is. . .LET’S HEAR YOUR COMMENTS PEOPLE!

 

Conquer Entertainment

LITTLE TEXAS ON TOUR!

Country Artist: Little Texas

This year, Conquer country band, Little Texas is breaking new sonic ground with the release of their 8th album, Young For A Long Time. Country fans are excited to see the band back in action. They have sold over 7 million albums over the course of their career, they received 3 Grammy nominations plus honors from both the Academy of Country Music (Vocal Group Of The Year) and the Country Music Association (Album Of The Year).

Their first radio release in 1991, “Some Guys Have All The Love,” became a Top-10 hit, as did their next single, “First Time For Everything.” After the album First Time For Everything was released, five singles reached the top of the charts.

The second album, Big Time, catapulted Little Texas. The album sold more than three million copies to date, which included three No. 1 singles -“What Might Have Been,” “God Blessed Texas” and “My Love” -The group received their first CMT Award, a Billboard award, a Radio & Records award and their first Grammy nomination.

Undoubtedly the band has never sounded more confident. The four band members appreciate each other and still have a ball on stage. There is a comfort level that happens when you have played together for over 20-something years.

Hunter Valentine All-Female Rock Band

Alternative Rock Artist: Hunter Valentine

Hunter Valentine’s gritty rock music has transformed the band from veteran indie artists to breakout music and television personalities. After starring in a hit reality television show and amplifying their devoted fan base, the band are currently working on their fourth studio album, which will feature collaborations with some of the music industry’s elite.

Their 2012 endeavors included starring in a hit reality television show on Showtime, releasing their third album – Collide and Conquer, and completing their third North American tour in two years.

Selected by Revolver Magazine to be part of the 2012 “Hottest Chicks in Metal” Issue, Hunter Valentine’s all female line–up includes founding members Kiyomi “ultra–cool” McCloskey (lead vocals and guitar) and Laura “wild child” Petracca (vocals and drums), as well as Aimee “brainiac” Bessada (lead guitar and keyboards) and Leanne “sweetheart” Bowes (bass guitar).

Although Hunter Valentine bids fans farewell with “The Pledge” and their So Long For Now Tour, you can still check out their music profile here and our previous feature on them here.

Summer Concerts At Second & Greene

J. Marc Bailey and Donny Watts of Downhill Slide Band

Concert Review: Second & Greene Concert Series

You could definitely feel that fall was in the air on September 30th in North Carolina, but that didn’t stop anyone from attending the last outdoor concert for the summer season at  Second and Green Tavern. Donny Watts & Downhill Slide with a special performance by Conquer artist, J. Marc Bailey, were the evenings headline acts, and drew in a very diverse crowd from country fans, bikers, college students, local patrons and even a coffee shop and restaurant owner all the way down from Virginia.

Second and Green Tavern, located in Winston-Salem, is known as the neighborhood place to be and they packed in a crowd. Even though it was a chilly night, these boys certainly heated up the stage. One of the highlights of the evening was the acoustic set performed by Donny Watts and J. Marc Bailey on guitar, and Don Sr. on harmonica.

J.Marc Bailey soundchecking at Second and Greene Tavern.

After speaking with J. Marc, he was thankful and appreciative to work with incredible professionals. The Downhill Slide Band had only one rehearsal with the country artist and did an amazing job representing his original music. The band covered country western hits and original music from The Blues, Country and Rock pleasing the crowd. The last song of the evening, “I Can’t Stop You” performed by J. Marc Bailey, received an overwhelming response from the crowd which confirmed his decision to make the song his next single to be released.

RELIEF FOR PUERTO RICO: FAT JOE

Relief For Puerto Rico: FAT JOE

Puerto Rico is the latest victim in this string of Hurricane’s that have been causing so much destruction. Last month they were hit by a brutal category 5 storm, knocking out essential needs. Clean water is in short supply, food serves are lacking, and people have been left with no heat or electricity. Returning to a sense of normalcy after the hurricane has proven very difficult for the island, and the amount of official government aid they have received in the wake of the storm just hasn’t been enough.

Fortunately there are amazing people out there who are doing everything they can to help the people of Puerto Rico. Alongside JAYZ and TIDAL, Conquer Hip Hop Artist Fat Joe has been doing his part to help revitalize our this fellow US territory. 2 million pounds worth of supplies and goods have been collected from the city of New York for the people of Puerto Rico.

As U.S. citizens, Puerto Rico has paid their part. I have two little cousins that’s in the army right now, willing to give their life for this country. And the fact that it took so long to get any help out there, that’s what I mean. So we had to mobilize and power ourselves to collect canned foods and waters and women’s hygiene and toothpastes to give back to our own community, and that we did.” – Fat Joe

Fat Joe also announced the TIDAL X concert set for Oct. 17th, where he will take the stage with JAY Z, Jennifer Lopez, DJ Khaled, Cardi B, and many more; with all proceeds going to disaster relief and recovery. In the aftermath of these hurricanes we need to remember to show our support and love for the people of Puerto Rico. They are currently dealing with near apocalyptic conditions, and in many places electricity may not return for at least a half a year. But if we band together, and give them the help they need, they can make it through these tough times.

Check out Fat Joe’s Conquer profile HERE!

Soul Food: Jade Harrell

Pop Artist: Jade Harrell

Singing sensation Jade Harrell, who hails from Jacksonville, FL, began singing at age 5 for her local church and youth group.

Growing up with a love for all Genres of music, Jade’s influences include Brandy Norwood, Erykah Badu, The Zombies, Johnny Cash, John Mayer and Michael Jackson.

After touring the country for several years with award winning hip hop rap group, GRITS, Jade went home to Dallas, Texas to continue writing and performing in her local area.

She enjoys such a disparate group of acts, it makes sense that the singer considers herself much more than an R&B/hip-hop styled singer.

Check out her music HERE

Conquer Exclusive: Interview with Skye Dumont

We here at Conquer had the opportunity to interview the incredibly talented vocalist, Skye Dumont. Getting to know Skye a little more, it is safe to say that she is the full package. Beautiful and poised, voice of an angel, well educated, and a drive to use her music as a force for good in the world. Ranging from pop hooks to full blow Italian arias, this artist can sing it all and sing it well, and she uses those vocal abilities to inspire and move those that hear it. She’s so much more than just another pretty face!

Conquer Entertainment: Tell us a bit about yourself and where you’re from and where you’re going.

Skye DuMont:  Hi everyone! I’m Skye DuMont, a normal girl from Florida who loves singing opera, pop, and leading worship. I am blessed enough to have done all three professionally! I attended college at the Manhattan School of Music in NYC studying vocal performance under the tutelage of Mignon Dunn. I also love modeling, health and fitness, beauty, fashion, and empowering women and building community on social media! My goal is to always release music with a message and inspire people and make them feel like they belong. Unity within diversity is such a beautiful thing to me.

CE: What have been some of the biggest influences for you and your music? Where does your inspiration come from?

SD:  One of the biggest influences for me and my music are honestly going through an intensely rough childhood filled with all kinds of abuse, drugs, and neglect, and being able to come through that and stand here today healed and whole again. Music was always part of my healing process and I am whole again today because of it. I never want to forget where I came from, it keeps me humble. Musical influences include: Maria Callas, Jazmine Sullivan, Edith Piaf, The Beatles, Jamiroquai, Barbara Streisand, Lana Del Rey, Beyonce, and of course Mariah Carey. I love pulling inspiration from all different eras and genres of music. I always think there is something to be learned from each artist/group of artists and I want to continue to be  passionately curious and open. I strive to learn something new every day. Growth is key. Believe it or not my favorite instrument is the trumpet. I love horns and strings. They always make me feel something.

CE: For those who haven’t heard your music, how would you describe your sound in one sentence?

SD: Haha, this question makes me giggle. I don’t know if I can describe it in just one sentence because honestly…it’s  kind of like, what day are you asking??  I would have to say no matter what mood I’m in or genre I am singing my music is always passionate, is ALWAYS diverse from day to day, and should always have a message and make you feel something. I believe life is too short to only do one style of music when there are so many different genres that are beautiful and filled with their own nuggets of unique gold.

CE: What’s your opinion on music streaming services such as spotify and pandora?

SD:  I absolutely love them! I always discover new incredible artists on each of them!

CE: Do you have any advice for fans trying to make it in music?

SD: Absolutely! Always stay true to yourself. Check your heart and your motives to make sure you are doing it for the right reasons, that your motives are pure – that you simply love it and are passionate about it. Other than that, when you release content CONSISTENCY IS KEY! Also, professionalism is huge. Don’t think just because you are a talented musician you can be a diva, not show up on time, and not have your music memorized. Be respectful and kind to other people and their time. One of my favorite quotes is “hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard”. Don’t take your natural gift for granted. ALWAYS work at it. ALWAYS try to grow in your craft! Last but not least, if it’s your dream DON’T QUIT! ESPECIALLY when it gets hard.

CE: Got any upcoming events or projects we should be excited for?

SD: As of right now I will be consistently doing performances in the New Orleans and North West Florida area! There are also some conversations going on about collaborating on a project with other conquer artist Rome Stevenson that I am excited about. I am going to be leading worship at churches in Florida as well! Keep up with me on my Youtube channel for new videos every week! Channel name is Skye DuMont Music

I had so much fun chatting with you all! Thank you so much for having me. Looking forward to connecting more soon!

LOVE CONQUERS HATE: Harvest Festival Tragedy

Two weeks today, on the night of October 1, 2017, a gunman opened fire on a large crowd of concertgoers at the Route 91 Harvest country music festival on the Las Vegas Strip, leaving 58 people dead and hundreds injured. This happened between 10:05 and 10:15 p.m. PDT. The gunman fired hundreds of rifle rounds from his suite on the 32nd floor of the nearby Mandalay Bay hotel. The incident is the deadliest mass shooting committed by an individual in the United States.

Since 2014, the Route 91 Harvest Festival has been held annually at Las Vegas Village, a 15-acre lot used for outdoor performances. The venue is 450 meters from the  Mandalay Bay hotel is diagonally across the intersection of Las Vegas Boulevard and Mandalay Bay Road.

Everyone of us can visualize ourselves being in an open field listening to our favorite band. Whether you are a Country, rock, hip hop, pop, reggae, blues fan. We are all one. The music world is a small group of individuals that connects us all. Maren Morris, who performed at Route 91 on Sept. 30, wrote the song with Tom Douglas and David Hodges in 2015, two days after a gunman killed nine parishioners at a Charleston, South Carolina, but had struggled with the right time to release it. The song features lyrics by Vince Gill.

” Our hearts are broken for all the families that lost a loved one. We pray for those that where at the scene and we thank all those that ran in to help others. “ – Michele Molinaro

Country Artists React On Twitter

Country music bands together on Twitter to #PrayForLasVegas:

AD BRINGS THE ENERGY TO HIP HOP

Hip Hop Artist: A.D. SCOTT

The best way to describe A.D. Scott and his music is a driven, passionate and charismatic artist with a unique approach to his blending of hip-hop, funk and R&b. He is a Recording Artist as well as a Producer, Engineer and Entrepreneur.

Balancing self published originals and covers of Billboard Top 40 Records, His sound is all about connecting with the listeners through high-energy release, uplifting melodies and thought-provoking lyrics appealing to creative and idealistic listeners.

Hailing from Raleigh, North Carolina, A.D. Scott is sure make the transition from local talent, to mainstream superstar. You can check out A.D Scott teaching others “How to engage your audience” Sunday Oct 15th at 7pm est on  MeetOn.com

Happy Birthday, Tish!

Birthday Shoutout: Tishmone

Yesterday was Tish Mone’s birthday!  Join us in wishing her a happy birthday.  Tish is an inspiration to all us all here at Conquer Entertainment.  Her hard work, dedication, perseverance, and steadfast devotion to the career she loves is rivaled only by the love she has for her daughter, Kamari.  Her infectious smile reminds all of us that #dreamscometrue if you work hard, #hustle, and NEVER give up.  Read more about Tish’s journey on her Instagram page, here:  

Check out fresh new music from Tish, and the rest of the Conquer Entertainment Crew on the official Conquer YouTube Channel.