Shake It Off

You know what they say. Once a teenie bopper, always a teenie bopper.

Which is why I pretty much flipped out yesterday over this video by Taylor Swift, after she announced her new album release, 1989. 

It's been a long time coming, but I guess she has finally made the jump from country to pop. I like Taylor for various reasons, and her genre of choice is the least of those. To be such a young star in the spotlight—going on 10 years now, calculating that the start of her fame came around the age of 15 or 16—she seems incredibly grounded and (er, dare I say?) normal.

This new song "Shake It Off" isn't just catchy and fun—although it definitely is both of those things, too. It's a message to girls that life isn't easy, growing up with the naysayers and heartbreakers is a reality. There will always be those around you that try to bring you down. But what is she suggesting in return? Shake it off. And I like that message, especially from a millennial.

She got my $12.99 for pre-order of this album. And I'm not ashamed to say it.

inspiration to start the week

I've always loved Colbie Caillat, but this new video of hers, Try, sealed the deal for me. What a great message to young (and old) girls everywhere.

hope tonight

I have a terrific music recommendation to share with you. It's a new album by my dear friend, Melanie Penn, that is hot off the presses–just released May 20th.

I've been listening to her songs for years now, practically since I moved to New York. I first heard her on an album called In The City produced and written by a group of local singers and songwriters. Then, through a mutual friend, I met her! Fast forward a couple more years, and Mel and I became cubicle neighbors at work. Funny how things work out isn't it? (AND, yes, sometimes she sings at her desk which is an absolute day-maker for me.)

There are so many things I love about Melanie, but one of my absolute favorites is how beautifully she sings. Just take a listen for yourself on her new album Hope Tonight. She's talented, she's creative, and the lyrics are profound and meaningful and will stick with you for days. So don't say I didn't warn you.