Haggard was a country favorite for us here at Conquer, so his death last year came as quite a hit to us, as I’m sure it did many. Merle Haggard and the word “legend” usually go hand in hand. An acknowledgement to the lasting effect he has had on not just country music, but music in general.
His artistry and ability to connect with the average listener (getting them to sympathize and understand scenarios event if they haven’t experience it themselves), has earned him the title of “The Poet of the Common Man”. 40 #1 hits, winner of just about every music award out there, and 1994 inductee to the Country Music Hall of Fame; he is easily one of the most influential country artists of all time.
Haggard was a man that took his own path, regardless of the latest trends and commercial music tropes. We are so honored to have some of his greatest hits (and live performances) now available for download here on getconquer.com
“We need to have music that contributes to the well-being of the spirit. Music that cradles people’s lives and makes things a little easier. That’s what I try to do, and what I want to do. You don’t want to close the door on hope.“
We’re really excited about the addition of these platinum artists to the Conquer platform. Rosemary Clooney was one of America’s most beloved performers for nearly six decades. Her voice was described as deep, and rich with a smooth tone that earned her recognition as one of America’s premier pop and jazz singers.
The Wall Street Journal called her “A pop icon and spoken in the same breath as Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald.”, and was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award on Feb 28, 2002; the year of her death. She is best known for her role in the 1954 film White Christmas, alongside Bing Crosby.
Since then she has become an icon of the holiday season, and her Christmas album is now available right here on getconquer.com
“Rosemary Clooney, an American musical treasure and one of the best friends a song ever had.”
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.
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!
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.
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!
Musical Theater, to Rock, to Pop, to solo indie artist Kiirstin Marilyn! Kiirstin started pursuing music at a young age, and has journeyed through various paths of the musician life where many artists only take one; and every path has led to her current pursuit as a solo artist, encompassing pieces of each into her music.
Check out our exclusive interview to learn more about what makes Kiirstin – Kiirstin.
We here at Conquer had the awesome opportunity to interview Alternative Country artist (though one would consider her unrestricted by genre) Jess Taylor about her ongoing crowdfunding project. Hitting the ground running in High-school, Jess’s songwriting and vocal skills quickly led to a large fan following within mainstream country. 5 years later, and Jess is back in a way you’ve never heard her before.
“Focus on the fun and the love of the art rather than on the success. And then success will have no choice but to find you.” The perfect adage for this group of fun-loving oddballs, Hey Guy brings a quirky and bold spin to today’s rock scene! Spanning the globe from Russia to Brazil, Hey Guy’s diverse crew comes together to create a sound that is as equally diverse as they are. Innovative original music with unique melodies, catchy tunes, and a sort of genre-bending freedom that is rare in today’s music, coupled with their hilarious onstage antics and bright personalities creates a new experience for the crowd that they never expected. After seeing a Hey Guy show, they’ll feel like your long time friends; and you always want to hang with your pals!
Songbird is an accurate comparison to the ever talented Rachel Menconi. Rachel is a master vocalist with over 20 years of vocal training and experience; as well as acting, songwriting, directing, and script-writing. A passion, and talent for the arts in every facet.
As a performer, Rachel has 20+ years of experience including originating the role of “Antigone” in “Oedipus: The Musical” (NYC). Other credits include commercials, films, TV shows (One Tree Hill, AMC, Food Network), music videos, and numerous stage credits (Regional, Off-Off Broadway, Off- Broadway, NYC Theatre). Rachel is also a songwriter (15+ years), director, scriptwriter, and an international recording artist (8+ years).
Rachel’s voice is versatile and refined with years of classical training. A strong vocal powerhouse capable of intricate operatic arias, and able to loosen it up just as easily for a more fun and flirty pop sound.
Sometimes an artist creates a sounds that is so remarkably unique that you just can’t possibly tie it down to one genera.Cris Valkyria – is just that! She is simply and refreshingly un-categorizable.
Born and raised in Norway, graduating with a degree in Psychology, traveling the world, and finally settling down in Philly; Cris now shows off her musical talents as lead singer of the band “Valkyrians“. Though the bands foundation is in the Alt-Rock genre, Cris takes it for a spiral with her sweet sound, and folky tone. Staying true to her Scandinavian roots, Cris gives an almost elven, otherworldly vibe with her voice. Injecting a fantasy style undertone into otherwise rock driven music.
Valkyrians is a Philly-based band that has established a reputation of a band hard to categorize, but with a memorable sound.
So aside from having a really cool name, Cris is an artist who pushes genre boundaries. The unique sound of her music gives off an ethereal sort of impression, and unique genre-crossing flare. Her Nordic, old word vocals, mixed with the alt-rock sound of the Valkyrians shows something truly unique.
