The Black Keys Fan Lounge Forum

Wow!

I had a subscription to RS for years and they finally pissed me off enough that I showed them *shakes fist* and took away my faithful dollars. I'm sure they’re still feeling the loss.

It is good to see decent bands/good music making it into the best-of-the-year charts with greats like Bieber and Gaga and Ke$ha/Brittany/Jessica Stepford-Poptart du jour.... or is it?

Either way, I am happy to see The Black Keys exploding into the fame and recognition they deserve; been one "the greatest bands you never heard" for far too long.

I wonder if a session of "Unplugged" is next? That would be fascinating.

Oh! And I am sure you fine people have heard this release by Kanye West and Jay-Z: "Otis." I won't post the youtube link (can't bring myself to do it) but if you want to hear it, just go there and search "Otis." You might stumble upon something by the original *fantastic* Mr. Redding... you might... but chances are you'll get this lovely "new" tune on the first try.

When I first heard/saw "Otis" (on Paladia I think was), it got my attention. Mmm-Hmm! I recognized the song urgently and thought Hey! Now this could be interesting.

It has been reported that, at some point during the viewing, my jaw became lax and I did proceed to drool into my lap… the only thing I remember is hearing the distant voices of loved ones calling out to me in concern from some misty away-land as I sat riveted for the entire video. I think I might actually still be in some form of shock-induced partial amnesia.

It's cool that Otis (Mr. Redding that is; not the eponymous song) is getting a nod here but Jesus! Listen to the original and then listen to Kanye and Jay-Z’s version and see what you think.

Original Studio:

Original Live '67:

I'm not a fan of rap/rap-like. I am sure there are wonderful artists and poignant lyrics and incredible talent. I mean no disrespect. Just like some people don't like Opera or Classical, Rock, or Pop... I don’t like the genre in general. But this isn't about genres; this is about the fact that someone, anyone, has managed to take this stellar, passionate song and reduce it to something that is slightly more than annoying!

I don't see Yanni skyrocketing up the charts with his cover of "Sympathy For The Devil!" (Thank God! Because the thought actually made my left eye twitch). I do get it though, I really do get it: the world moves on. I get it that freshness and creativity and exposure all have their place and I appreciate the importance of these things but there is just some shit you don't mess with.

Period.

Wonder how long I will hold out before I go peruse the other top 100-this' and top 50-thats. I am currently far too weak to brave the list of the top 500 Guitarists of all Time!

Anyhoo...Has anyone seen my coffee cup?