Whatever happened to the mixed gender pop group?

In the nineties to early noughties these groups ruled. They were at the top of the charts, selling out arena tours and on every television program. They were incredibly child friendly, whilst also singing about adult themes of love and sex. However, all of a sudden they disappeared. The noughties brought indie bands and a lot of sexually charged same sex pop groups. We lost the magic of cheesy pop music with both male and female voices.

Yes we do still have mixed groups in recent years, N-Dubz, No Doubt, Paramore and Black Eyed Peas spring to mind. These are not the same though. Where are the dance moves that we can learn? Where are the fun colour co-ordinated outfits? And where are the open mouthed manic poses on the front of music magazines? Music has gotten to serious. I absolutely hate when someone will describe a band as 'real music' - what is that? What does that mean? Are there rules?

I don't think I stand alone when I say I miss them and that I loved them. I bet my life that we all own at least one CD or tape that one of the above bands have made. They were innocent fun. They are still some of our karaoke favourites - and you know why? It's because they are easy, they are easy to sing along to and easy to mimic. So any record company that reads this blog (and I know you all do) please put a band together! All we need is some older teens or young twenty-somethings, good looking, good singers and some good dancers. We are easily pleased when it comes to cheesy pop.

Below I will write a list of songs to remind you just how great some mixed groups were.

• Steps - Deeper Shade Of Blue
• Steps - It's The Way You Make Me Feel
• S Club 7 - Bring It All Back
• S Club 7 - You
• Hear'say - Pure And Simple
• Hear'say - The Way To Your Love
• Liberty X - Song 4 Lovers
• Liberty X - Holding On For You
• Big Brovaz - My Favourite Things
• S Club 8 - Automatic High
• Allstars - Bump In The Night
• A*Teens - Upside Down

I may not be appearing the most 'coolest' person right now, but at least I am being honest. Be honest with yourself - we loved these groups. I went to see Steps on their reunion tour and they were amazing, we need some more cheesy pop about friendships and love in our lives - we take our music tastes way too seriously. There is no shame in liking these songs, theres only shame in pretending that you don't. We all loved them at one point; Steps sold 20 million records, S Club 7 sold 10 million records and Abba sold nearly 300 million records!

Why we should all be a little more Jennifer Lawrence

If you haven't been charmed by the beautiful Jennifer Lawrence then you must simply be heartless. She is a warm, intelligent, talented, beautiful and charismatic actress. Every role I have seen her in she just shines. And normally I am quite bitter when it comes to people younger than me been successful, but with her it doesn't seem to bother me (as much).

 There are quite a few things that we can learn from this young woman and here are 5 quotes that would benefit us greatly if we took them to heart.

1. Jennifer on her 'weight'

'I don't really diet or anything. I'm miserable when I'm dieting and I like the way I look. I'm really sick of all these actresses looking like birds... I'd rather look a little chubby on camera and look like a person in real life, than look great on screen and look like a scarecrow in real life.' 

We always hear stars saying that they live these healthy lifestyles, how refreshing is it to hear one of the world's most famous actresses actually say what we want to hear.

2. Jennifer on mental health

'It's just so bizarre in this world; if you have asthma, you take asthma medicine. If you have diabetes, you take diabetes medicine, but as soon as you have to take medication for your mind it's...there's such a stigma behind it.'

When she speaks, she only speaks the truth. The lack of filter on her mouth truly makes her brilliant. I can't imagine how many people this helped - to be acknowledged and supported by someone like her.

3. Jennifer on acting
“Not to sound rude, but [acting] is stupid. Everybody’s like, ‘How can you remain with a level head?’ And I’m like, ‘Why would I ever get cocky? I’m not saving anybody’s life. There are doctors who save lives and firemen who run into burning buildings. I’m making movies. It’s stupid.’”
One thing we all love about her is is her honesty. It's so great to see someone in the business who actually is aware.

4. Jennifer on money
“I like the financial security because I know how hard it is for so many people who struggle to earn a living. I’m grateful I don’t have to worry about money and I can live very freely and do something I love and get paid very well to do it. I tell my friends to slap me if they ever think I’m getting full of myself.”
She is so aware of everything, she fully understands how great some parts of her life are and yet when she says it we don't actually hate her for it.

5. Jennifer on being starstruck
“Once I’m obsessed with somebody, I’m terrified of them instantly. I’m not scared of them — I’m scared of me and how I will react. Like, for instance, one time someone was introducing me to Bill Maher, and I saw Meryl Streep walk into the room, and I literally put my hand right in Bill Maher’s face and said, ‘Not now, Bill!’ and I just stared at Meryl Streep. [...] I just creepily stared at her.”
Okay, hands up ... isn't this exactly what you would do if you saw Meryl Streep!

This is quite a short list about how and why I love Miss Lawrence! She is honest to the point that sometimes you don't know if she is saying something for effect; but really with her we know she isn't. She is hilarious, all you have to do is watch an interview with her. She is crazy talented and if you don't agree she has 67 awards for acting you can argue with. She is only going to get better and bigger. I see more Oscar's for her and more inspiring roles for her to take over.

Jennifer I bow down to you, please stay you amazing self, don't let the bastards get you down and keep on shining.

Do it for the Vine!

Vine is a blessing for someone like me. I have the attention span of a gnat. Vine is a great app where people create 6 second videos. My favourite type is definitely comedy, I have subscribed to pretty much most of the funniest Viners that are out there. This is a bit of a pain because all the people I have subscribed to are always on the 'Most Popular' page so it is definitely getting tougher to find new stuff - 1st world problems eh?

If you have not downloaded this app then you are surely missing out. First of all it is free so what the hell you might aswell. Secondly its an amazing time killer. And also these people are becoming quite famous, so you will know them before other people - and who doesn't like being ahead of the curve?

Also as the ever helpful person that I am, I have compiled a list of people you should consider following.

1. DRose - comedy, mixed with real life and her daughter
2. Brandon Calvillo - comedy, pokes fun at everyday stupidity.
3. Brittany Furlan - comedy, Queen of Vine. Not afraid to look stupid.
4. Simone Shepard - comedy, makes fun of ratchetness.
5. Alx James - comedy, social commentary of stupid things that anger him.
6. Sunny Mabrey - comedy, does a lot of hilarious skits.
7. Robby Ayala - comedy, big looking tough guy who is actually hilarious and sweet.
8 That's So Raven - comedy, 6 second clips of one of the best TV shows of all time.

Here is a quick compilation of some videos I found on YouTube. They are worth checking out. Some of these videos are amazing - and just remember they only have 6 seconds to impress you and most of them have little to no technology to use except from their phone.

Craig's Movie Club

So, I have seen a few good films in the last few weeks. Some were amazing and some were a bit blah. As I am a blog that literally talks about anything I thought I would give some little reviews. I warn you now there are some spoilers, so here we go -

Safety Not Guaranteed (2012)
This film was recommended for me on Netflix, and I decided to give it a gander as I love Aubrey Plaza's work on 'Parks and Recreation' and also Jake Johnson's work on 'New Girl'. The film centres around a reporter and his two interns and them chasing a story about some guy who has advertised for some one to be his sidekick as he attempts to time travel. It isn't a film that is bogged down with science fiction, I have no knowledge of psychics and I followed it just fine. It is a really good film. The relationship that Aubrey's character develops with the time traveller is quite special and in the end you don't want him to be this crazy guy that everyone thinks he is. Also there is a cameo from the awesome Kristen Bell so I was more than pleasantly happy with this film. The ending was great - a little bit of mystery so you can decide what happened.

The Blind Side (2009)
My love for Sandra Bullock has no limit. I will stand and cheer for anything she does (even the less than stellar 'All About Steve' which I happened to enjoy). I can't believe it has taken me this long to watch this film which gave my beloved an Oscar. This film is basically about a well off family that takes in a boy from the wrong side of the tracks and looks after him. He is built like brick shit house so he is perfect for American Football. They love him as if he is their own. The story is very touching and I got a lump in my throat basically every second line that was spoken. Sandra is amazing in it and totally believable portraying this woman that actually exists, as it is a true story. I love a film that makes me cry and with this film I was snivelling wreck.

Gravity (2013)
Another Sandra film, and this time I made sure I saw it in a cinema. YOU HAVE TO SEE THIS IN THE CINEMA. The effects are awesome, I found myself questioning half way through if they didn't actually film this in space. It is so amazingly done and so real (as far as I can gather). Sandra's performance was definitely award worthy and I hope she gets celebrated for it. The film it self is quite stressful, the story is about a bunch of astronauts that become under attack from high speed debris flying at them. It destroys the ship they were on and basically a bunch of the film is Sandra just spinning around in space.
You long for the safety of her's and George Clooney's characters as they aim to board the International Space Station to use their escape pod. Some of the shots throughout the film just left me open mouthed - my favourite was the scene where Sandra takes off her suit. This is in no way perverted, it was just beautiful. The fluidity of being in space, this might resonate with some people, but it almost looked like a baby in the womb (its a weird thought but it did to me). Apparently there are some scientific inconstancies but it should no way effect your enjoyment.

Rebecca (1940)
Someone at work knew that I  was a Hitchcock fan and they asked if I had seen this film, I hadn't so they borrowed it me. The horror when I found out it was over 2 hours long nearly put me off (my attention span can last comfortably for an hour and half to two hours. However my love for Hitchcock films and my co-worker sat me in my seat for the entire duration. It is a story of a woman who marries a recently widowed man, she moves in with him and finds her self constantly in the shadow of the deceased wife. The wife's cause of death is put under scrutiny, and is also revealed that the husband did have some part in the death, but he is found not guilty. The problem for me with this film is that it could have been a hell of a lot shorter, the first hour is incredibly dragged out and there is a lot of scenes that are not necessary. I almost turned it off half way through, already thinking of a lie about how much I loved it. I am glad I didn't. The last hour is great in comparison. Would I watch it again? No. I don't need to but I am glad I have watched it.

It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
I feel like this is one of those films that everyone has seen and I never did. It is a classic film that is constantly mentioned in popular culture. I always remember Phoebe talking about it on 'Friends' so I wanted to see it. So finally I sat down with it, I decided to watch the colour version (I'm a fan of fashion so I wanted to see the clothes in all their glory).
The film is a lot to take. You constantly ask yourself how much one man can take, how could he not snap? Its constant disappointment after disappointment. I started to question the film's title. Then we get to meet the amazing Clarence. At the lowest point of the main character's story, George, he contemplates suicide. Clarence, the angel to yet to receive his wings comes and saves him and shows him just how much influence he has had on the people around him. It is a beautiful last 45 minutes and really makes you question your own life. The ending made me cry like a sinner in church. I am not surprised this is a classic, it was perfect.

TV Deaths

For me a death scene can be the making of a TV show. If they write it right then you know you have a great show. If the death actually affects you emotionally than that is a sign of a good writer. TV deaths always affect me more than a death in a film. I think this is because you have watched these character's development and you have unwittingly become invested. Also you watch how it affects the rest of the characters and this can be just as devastating. Saying good bye to a character can feel like someone you know. Below I have written about 11 character's death' that really got to me and stuck with me.

Ben Sullivan (Scrubs)

He wasn't a main character and he wasn't even a secondary character, he only appeared in 3 episodes. He was the friend of Dr. Cox, he gave us an insight to a more personable and softer side to Dr. Cox. For me his death was a shock, I never even saw it coming. I fell into the trap of believing what I was seeing. We were led to believe that Dr. Cox was having a good time with his old pal and they were on their way to a birthday party - when in reality Dr. Cox was going to Ben's funeral and a way to cope was to imagine his friend was right by the side of him. I was floored and in shock when a sullen J.D appeared and asked him 'Where do you think we are?'. I tip my feathered hat to Scrubs - they blend comedy and drama perfectly.

Cassie (Buffy The Vampire Slayer)

Again she wasn't a main character either, she was only in one episode. We were introduced to her and had to say goodbye to her in 42 minutes (I know she later appears as The First but that doesn't count). Basically the premise was that Cassie believed she was going to die on a certain day, Buffy being her guidance councillor believed she was suicidal - then Buffy later found out that she was to be a sacrifice in a demonic ritual. Buffy goes in and kicks some demon ass, saves Cassie, everyone is happy, Cassie is wrong and she will live. Seconds later Cassie falls to the floor and dies due to an unknown heart problem. The truly heartbreaking moment of the episode is when Buffy tries to convince her to live and Cassie tells her she wants to and lists all the things she wants to do in life, but will never get to.

Eli (Desperate Housewives)

Another character that only appeared in one episode, but he actually lived amongst the ladies for years. In the 100th episode we are introduced to him as the handyman who did so much more. He was a huge part of the ladies lives and we are shown through flashbacks just how much he was. The saddest moment is before he dies and in a flashback we see him talking to Mary-Alice just before she commits suicide - and then we see him outside as they take her body away, he is just standing there crying. My heart dropped - grown men crying always gets me. He was a great character and I am so glad we were introduced to him.

Batley (Emmerdale)

He was the pet of Edna Birch. She was a hard as nails pensioner who listened to the Lord and no-one else. Batley brought out the softer and more loving side to her. It was a real friendship and a companion for her in her lonely life. It was absolutely heart-wrenching when she had to say goodbye to him. I don't really watch soap operas, but for me this scene was beyond. Me and my whole family cried at that very moment.

Anya (Buffy The Vampire Slayer)

Anya was always one of my favourite characters on Buffy. After appearing in season 3 as a vengeance demon, then later becoming mortal, then falling in love with Xander, to being a shop keeper and then finally becoming a demon again, she supplied so much humour. My favourite scene from Anya (which incidentally isn't a funny one) is when she can't grasp the idea of death when Buffy's mum dies. She asks all the questions that aren't supposed to be asked - Emma Caulfield's acting was top notch. Anyway, Anya is one of the victims of the final battle in season 7. All fans knew that we were going to lose a major character, I for one did not think it would be Anya. She is sliced almost in half from behind moments before Sunnydale falls in to the Hellmouth. She was an amazing character, and if they do make a movie in the future I will be truly upset if they don't at least acknowledge her.

Prue (Charmed)

This death came at such a huge shock, in the Charmed world it seemed as if the sisters were invincible. Yes they get hurt and damaged but they always get back up. In the last scene of season 3 Prue was thrown through a wall - but this time she didn't get back up. The death was a little bit sullied by the fact that Prue had to be killed off because Shannen Doherty was fired. However, this did not stop the show from growing. The saddest scene is when Piper can't handle the death and screams at Prue's burial place, blaming her for leaving her. I always wished that Prue came back for a cameo in some form - its the supernatural world so I am sure they could have worked something out.

George (Grey's Anatomy)

This was another huge shocker aswell, we didn't even see the incident which ultimately ended his life. Instead we are shown a John Doe appear in the hospital and then we find out at the same time as Meredith when he draws 007 (his nickname) on her hand as he can't speak. He later dies in surgery. He was such a major character that was there from day one, he is a character that I got invested in because I didn't think I would have to say goodbye to him on the show. I always wished him and Izzy got together, but also I understand why it wouldn't have worked. The scene where we last see him with Izzy is heartbreaking. What happens is they are both wearing their best and they get into a lift together - metaphorical of the idea they are moving on.

Denny (Grey's Anatomy)

If there is one thing I can guarantee I will get from Grey's Anatomy is water filled eyes and a snotty nose. They are geniuses when it comes to writing a devastating storyline, but for me this tipped me over the edge. Denny is a character who is waiting for a heart transplant, he falls in love with his doctor, Izzy, and she also falls in love with him. She has a plan to cut his wire to a machine thats keeping him alive so he will be rushed in to an operating theatre and receive a heart that is meant for someone else. Doesn't really go to plan, and Denny dies. The soundtrack is 'Chasing Cars' by Snowpatrol and it just added to the devastation. Watching Izzy's reaction and morning was really hard - Katherine Heigl should of won every award.

Joyce (Buffy The Vampire Slayer)

For a show that is about a girl saving the world hundreds of time, they sure know how to knock us out with a death scene. 'The Body' is up there with one of my favourite  episodes of Buffy ever. It is so pure and perfect. Joyce is Buffy's mum and she finds her dead on the couch - ironically for Buffy there was no supernatural/demonic element within the story of Joyce's death, so this left Buffy powerless. It was a human part of life that Buffy had no control over. The worst scenes for me where when Dawn is told and when Buffy finds the body - they break my heart. The show was amazingly done, the lack of soundtrack in some parts gave a really realistic feeling to a horrible reality some people have probably faced. It wasn't a dressed up episode, nothing was overdone - it is probably the most human episode of the series. 

Paul Hennessy (8 Simple Rules for Dating My Teenage Daughter)

What truly made this episode truly devastating and hurt so much was the fact that the actor had actually passed in real life, the death of the character had to be written in to compensate for the loss of the actor. They could have gotten another actor but this would not have been right, John Ritter made that character. In the show we see the family find out what happened and then we see the funeral, its hard to watch because you know these emotions are real - they are actually mourning. All the actors did an amazing job and it will forever go down as one my favourite shows of all time.

Finn Hudson (Glee)

This again was another death that was incredibly hard to watch as Cory who played Finn actually died in real life. What I like about the episode is that we were never told how he died - I really liked this because at the end of the day we didn't need to know, we all know the tragic reasons in real life. This episode was hard as it felt like we were just watching a lot of actors mourn on camera. Yes they had words but there wasn't any acting involved for some characters as it all came from the heart. The songs chosen were great aswell and fitted the sombre mood of the show perfectly. I will stand and applaud Lea Michelle as she did an outstanding job. Its hard enough having to go back to work after losing a loved one but to have to do it on camera, sing about him and talk about him - I can't imagine the strength it must have taken just to walk on to the set where she met her husband to be. 

I HATE CHRISTMAS SONGS!

So its the beginning of December and of course every radio station, music channel and shopping establishment think there is only one type of music we want to listen to - Christmas songs! I may be a one man army when it comes to my hatred of christmas songs and for that I apologise, but as soon as I hear Noddy Holder scream 'IT'S CHRISTMAS' I can feel my eyes just roll into the back of my head. 

I understand people's love for them, they are happy songs that remind us of this great time of year. It's just I don't choose to listen to them. This will be my 25th Christmas that I have experienced and just for once I would like to not be slapped in the face with them. I work in a restaurant so of course all the other music has been shunned for the christmas cheer. I wouldn't even mind if we had a new bunch of christmas songs to enjoy, but we don't. We get the same ones again and again. Every 'Top 20 Christmas Songs' on the music channels is the same 20 songs. 

However, me being me, I do enjoy a bit of hypocrisy and there is some Christmas songs I do not hate.

• Mariah Carey 'All I want for Christmas'
• Danity Kane 'Home For Christmas'
• Destiny's Child '8 Days of Christmas'
• Boney M 'Mary's Boy Child'
• Sara Bareilles and Ingrid Michaelson 'Winter Song'
• Britney Spears 'My Only Wish'
• Greg Lake 'I Believe in Father Christmas'

My all time favourite Christmas song is by Jackson 5. 'Santa Claus is coming to Town' will get me in the mood for yuletide celebrations.

One thing that irks about some christmas hits is the songs that aren't actually about Christmas. You pair any random, slow, romantic song with a winter themed video and BAM you have a Christmas song. Every year they are brought back and we accept them as christmas songs. For example - 

• East 17 'Stay Another Day'
• S Club 7 'Never Had a Dream Come True'
• Spice Girls '2 Become 1'
• Gary Jules 'Mad World'
• Every X Factor single

I don't mean to spread hate especially within the season of joy its just they really bother me, there is no other type of music we are forced to listen to straight for a month or two. And in all honesty do you like Christmas songs? The last Christmas song to get to number one was in 2004 with Band Aid and before then it was 1990 with Cliff Richard! I am however excited to hear Leona Lewis' and Kelly Clarkson's Christmas albums though - their voices slay me.

British LOL's

Someone asked me the other dau which TV boxsets I owned, so of course 10 minutes later I was finished naming them all. They asked me why there wasn't any British comedies on the list. I replied that I didn't like any of them, I have quite a snobby attitude towards comedy and I honestly think our American cousins do it better. Modern Family, Friends, Parks and Recreation, Will & Grace, The Big Bang Theory - need I say more.
It did get me thinking though - I actually do love some British comedies, whereas some just go over my head. I don't find shows like Alan Partridge, Porridge, Monty Python and Only Fools and Horses that funny (I do not say this out loud with fear of being exiled), but there are some that I find myself watching re-runs of all the time. I wrote a short list of 6 comedies that I feel prove me wrong, and prove that Britain is funny.

1. The Inbetweeners (E4)
I fell for this show straight away, Will is a perfectly written character - the scene where he shits himself during an exam can make me laugh out loud just by thinking about it. The other boys are great aswell, each with their extreme personalities. Neil is probably my favourite character, his naivety mixed with his lack of shame just makes him great.

2. Absolutely Fabulous (BBC)
How can you not like this show. It has everything a comedy should have. It has a drunk best friend, a snobby daughter, a slightly out of it Grandmother and a bat shit crazy assistant. All these characters just add to this show. Eddie is obviously the star of the show, she is totally oblivious to her status and thinks she is more than what she is - however to me she is perfect. If I could change one thing it would be the americans - they are too extreme and I often find myself zoning out when they come on.

3. Miranda (BBC)
I accidentally stumbled across this show one night when I was having pre-drinks at my friends house and she was taking forever to get ready. I will always remember it -  the scene was when she was at a job interview and she starts to sing a Whitney Houston song, I laughed so hard that I almost saw my pre-drinks in reverse. Miranda is one of those characters that I find my self relating to (reluctantly), she is one of lifes losers who just strives to have everything that everyone has but takes for granted. Miranda Hart is a comic genius and I am actually going to see her on tour and I can't freaking wait.

4. The IT Crowd (Channel 4)
I didn't watch this show much when it was broadcast, but then iTunes had an offer to buy the series for like a fiver or something so I snapped it up, so happy I did. I binge watch this show all the time (thank you Netflix). My favourite character is of course Moss - I love him. I feel if I was to be around him I would just laugh all the time, he would hate me because he isn't trying to be funny. Jen and Roy of course make up the magnificent trio. I was glad that Channel 4 got them together to do one more episode to wrap things up - I needed the closure.

5. Trollied (Sky 1)
This is a show that I think is lost amongst the cable channels. It should be on the BBC at least, more people need to see it. It is a sitcom based in a supermarket - we never leave the supermarket. It has a range of characters so there is something for everyone. My favourite character is Lisa, she is the check out girl who could not give less of a shit. She is literally there for the money, she has no passion and is often rude (so basically any shop worker).  She is crude and loathes everybody, she is the best.

6. Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps (BBC)

I believe this was our answer to Friends - accept a hell of a lot more realistic for us Brits. It tells the story of 5 friends trying to get through life in Runcorn. They are struggling for money, struggling for jobs but they appreciate the beauty of having a pint with your mates down the pub. Its hard to pick a favourite character from the original 5, but I would have to say my favourite supporting character was Donna's mum - she was amazing, made me laugh more than anyone else.

So to recap I may have been too harsh, we have some jewels in our comedy crown. We getting better and better and we have had some amazing shows come and go. Maybe my next boxset purchase will be a British Comedy.

Supergroups!

Inspired by the formation of McFly and Busted as one big supergroup; I thought I would create some that world needs/wants. Before you say, yes they are all female. I can't help it; I love a good female singing voice.

Little Saturday
A combination of Little Mix and The Saturdays. Unfortunately we live in a world where there can only be one raining girl band at a time, fortunately for us when one goes quiet the other one steps in - so they both get chart success and the attention they deserve. Combining these two groups would be genius, it was give us one amazing girl band that would be unrivalled! They are pure pop fun and they deserve more than what we give them.

DCTLC
What would happen if you put the two biggest selling girl groups of all time together in the same room? Magic I am sure of it. Separately they have dominated - together they would conquer. The tour would be a spectacle and would sell out in minutes the world round. Just like TLC were going to at the American Music Awards (but didn't!) they should hologram in a Left Eye and it would literally be the best show on Earth! I am actually getting excited and its not even happening - it was created by me, boredom, 4 am and Photoshop.

Jessie, Paloma, Adele, Ellie and Florence
Arguably the five best voices we have birthed in this country in the last few years. Just now I thought about Emeli Sande as a sixth member - chills. The shows would be epic and beyond any vocal performances anyone has ever seen, Separately they have sold out arenas - together they could sell out stadiums around the freaking world. I need this to happen, I am too excited for it not to happen.

My Go-To Albums

I am one of those people that get incredibly bored with music very quickly, I can love a song one day and instantly turn it over when it comes on the music channels the next day. However, there are some that break this rule. These are my go to albums right now, when I'm on the train or walking places and I can't choose anything to listen to, I will go to my old faith-fulls.

Little Mix - Salute

Quite a new addition to my go-to albums. When I first heard it I was a bit erm about it. I can flick past one or two songs but some really stuck with me. 'Boy' is my absolute favourite on the album, think old school Destiny's Child with a bit of Dream's "He Loves You Not' and Jesy's amazing vocal intro and you have a great track. Also with the album you will notice you start to walk in a different way, you march! They have perfected the art of marching music - if you don't agree listen to 'A Different Beat', 'Move' and 'Salute'. This type of music just makes my head bop and there ain't nothing wrong with that.

Natalia Kills - Trouble

I will always be thankful for Spotify for this treat to the ears. Its an amazing album. It has attitude filled songs, mixed with some beautiful ballads and some throw back tunes that are reminiscent of the 90's. Particular favourites include 'Devil Don't Fly' and 'Saturday Night' - I am a huge sucker for a ballad. If you need a song to help you stomp the street like a boss ass bitch then you got 'Problem' for that - this album has something for everyone.

Taylor Swift - Red 
If you know me then you know my love for Taylor is deep and its real. She is an amazing writer and every song she gifts us with seems like we are having a peek in to her world. I have to say my favourite album of hers will always be 'Fearless' (it was perfect), but the reason this album is on my go-to list is because it is so varied. No two songs sound similar, no two songs cover the same topic and lets face it her voice is like a fine wine - its only getting better with age. Favourite songs include 'Red', 'The Lucky One' and 'Holy Ground' - but for me its like picking my favourite food, its all good.

Miranda Lambert - Four The Record
This album is country perfection, she has the twang down and there is no shortage of guitars and banjos. This is the epitome of country for me, every song is a story whether happy or sad. It takes a lot for a song to make me cry just by listening and not having a video for it - 'Over You' had me bawling, ugly snotty kind of crying. This album is perfect for journeys, you can just look out the window and the scenery fits the songs and you can create your own music videos (just be aware of fellow passengers judging you as you place your hand against the rain splattered window and mime). This album does also have its great up tempo songs aswell. Favourite tracks include 'All Kinds Of Kinds', 'Look At Miss Ohio' and 'Mama's Broken Heart'.

Demi Lovato - Demi 
If I could have any one's singing voice it would be heres, her range is awesome and she can hold a note like nobodies business. Each album of hers gets better and better. This one definitely shows a growth and maturity. She has now got a clubby vibe to her sound on some songs and I'm not mad about it, her ballads are what you expect - perfect, and she still hasn't forgotten her pop routes. If you ever want to mime and feel like a diva (which we all do at some point of the day) then pop this on. Some favourites include 'Neon Lights', 'Warrior' and of course 'Heart attack'. I also very much recommend her last album - 'Unbroken'.

The Band Perry - Pioneer 
I fell in love with this band the second after I heard 'If I Die Young' - it was depressing, country perfection, which is what I ask from my music a lot. When they released this second album I was afraid they wouldn't live upto the high bar I set them. Then they released 'Better Dig Two', yes another death related song, but my god its so good. The whole album is great - they haven't stepped away from their country roots, but why should they, you don't fix something that isn't broken. I am also listening to them on replay a lot lately because I am going to see them on Sunday and I am balls to wall excited.

Pleasuring the masses

Before I start there will be a lot of people that will probably disagree with this post, people that know will probably think I am nowhere near a people pleaser. Well thats not how I feel, read on and you will see what I mean.

For years now I have felt a bit like a people pleaser, not in the brown nosing way. In the way where I hate disappointing people, where I don't like been in people's way and sometimes to the extreme where I would hide certain parts of my personality to fit in. In all honesty now, I am sick of it. I am going to be me, I am going to make me happy and I am not going to try and impress people anymore.

I have reached a point in my life where I have realised that I have done everything because thats what I thought I had to do, what was expected of me. Its lead me to quite a boring existence. I am still in education at 25 and studying something that right now I couldn't give two shits about. I will finish though, I have worked to hard and long for it - it will literally be the only achievement I will have had. When I look back it seems a lot of stuff I have done was pointless. For example I didn't need to do my A Levels - I followed my friends there as I didn't have a plan, I should have gone straight to art college.

My job is another place where I am sick of trying. For some reason I have been labelled lazy - I am not lazy. Yes, I will sometimes take a minute to talk to someone I work with, but my job never suffers and I will help other people with their jobs if they need it. I am always trying to be noticed by people at work but I'm not. They only notice my negatives. I don't want to sound big headed but there isn't many people at my job that can do some of the things I do well. I think from now on I will just go in, do my job and leave - pointless trying to impress someone who doesn't look out for it.

University is another place where I feel like I am not doing it for me. For instance I now know that I am on the wrong course with the wrong career choice. I know now that I won't use my degree to its fullest when I leave. I feel like I am quite a creative person, however there are too many rules that I have to design by - this isn't what I signed up for. I went to uni because I never saw another life for me, it was always in my plan and I never questioned it.

So, from now on I am taking a stand. I am only responsible for my happiness, no one else's. If I don't want to do something then I won't do it. Life is too damn short to be unhappy or trapped. As I type this I am doubting myself as I know I will be in uni tomorrow, which is the last place I want to be. Maybe I will have a change of heart soon, but who cares - its my life. Its my life to screw up, I don't have to answer to anything or anyone.

Life's a Witch

In celebration of Halloween and also the return of one of the best TV shows tonight, American Horror Story, I thought I would introduce you to my favourite TV witches. I strictly picked TV because I was flummoxed at the amount of movie witches I could have picked. I am extremely excited for the return of American Horror Story, especially as it is to be centred around witches! Jessica Lange, Emma Roberts, Gabourey Sidibe, Kathy Bates and Taissa Farmiga are all to star and I think it will be the best season yet. So lets go and get this magical (get it?) countdown on the go.

5. Bonnie (The Vampire Diaries)

Our poor Bonnie does not get an easy ride of it in Mystic Falls does she? She has basically seen everyone she loves either be killed or turned in to a vampire! She is often called upon to help with their issues and do some magic spell to save the day - only problem is is that she is young and she can't really control her powers. Proof of that at the end of the last season.

4. Alex (Wizards of Waverly Place)

Ok, technically not a witch - she is a wizard (I don't know the difference). This part introduced us to the talented Selena Gomez. She is a brilliant comic actress with amazing comic timing. Alex often gets in trouble with her magic abilities and can be quite careless. However she ends up winning the family wizard title thing so she can't be that bad.

3. Willow (Buffy The Vampire Slayer)

It is hard to consider her as one of the greatest witches after season 6 (you know what I am talking about). Trying to kill my love The Buffster is just a step to far, but I get it - the love of her life was shot, she had to get revenge at any cost and Buffy had to be all about saving the world, it would have pissed me off aswell. However for the bad she did she also did the world a tonne of good aswell, saving the world in season 7 can make you forget about scary black haired, vainy faced Willow.

2. Sabrina (Sabrina The Teenage Witch)

Probably my first foray into the witching world as a child. Sabrina finds out at 16 she is a witch and she must live with her aunties to learn the ways of the witching world. Hilarity ensues as she has to learn how to use her power and reveal the family secret at the same time (whilst also learning how to be a teenage girl with boy crushes, boobs and bullies). This show was hilarious and was the perfect antidote for a bad day at school.

1. Prue, Phoebe, Piper and Paige (Charmed)

I couldn't pick one sister from another, they were all great in their own way. I loved this show and even collected the Charmed Magazine where you could build your own Book Of Shadows (I had a lot of free time in my youth). I just enjoy a good kick ass show, with horror, comedy and drama. This show had it all in buckets. Was gutted when Prue died but was more than happy with the replacement. I would crave an extra sibling when I was younger just so we could chant 'The Power of three will set us free' - just to see what happened.

Friends Reunited

I have said it before and I will say it again; Friends is one of the best TV shows ever made, ever. I watch it almost every single day (I just finished season 10 so I am taking a Will & Grace break right now). The show ended on May 4th 2004, thats almost 10 years for those who are counting. I think we are due a mini reunion, a crazy kick-ass feature length reunion. These characters were big parts of people's lives and I think it would be nice for the writers to get together and tell us what the hell the gang are upto. 

The way we left it was that Rachel got off the plane and got back together with Ross, Chandler and Monica welcomed a set of twins into the Bing dynasty, Phoebe was married to Mike and wanting to start a family and Joey .... was there. (I know in the spin off he went off to Hollywood, but we don't talk about that). So, as I am sure many Friends fans have, I have fantasised what they could be upto - I even wrote a little synopsis for an episode/movie if you will. So lets go ...

Date - Thanksgiving 2013
Location - Monica and Chandler's House

Monica and Chandler
Still very happily married and Monica has thrived in her role as a mother. Her daughter Erica has blossomed into a mini-Monica and Jack has turned into a Joey replacement for Chandler. Through the stress of being a full time Mum, Monica has piled the weight on again and once again become my favourite type of Monica (fat Monica). Still very much in charge of cooking dinner for everyone and their families. Chandler is the 'cool Dad' and lets the kids get away with everything.

Rachel and Ross
Hurrah, they made it and they are together! Emma is now 11 years old and she has a little brother (Darwin). Rachel is still unfulfilled by her job and still wonders what would of happened if she took her big break in France. Ross is oblivious as he now has exactly what he wanted since he was 19. They still haven't got married, as they have both had had failed relationships before (potential heart warming moment as they decide to get married in Monica and Chandler's garden as all their friends and families are already there), plus Rachel can't find the perfect wedding dress, we all saw her previous effort.

Phoebe and Mike
Still together aswell. Mike is a successful musician and always on tour. Super fertile Phoebe now has a set of triplets all of her own (Phoebo, Mike Jr and Princess Consuela).Phoebe has become what she never thought she would be, a soccer mom. Picking out china patterns and painting her picket white fence are a joy. However it is Phoebe so she still has her freak inside of her and still regales in telling people about that time a pimp spat in her mouth. 'Smelly Cat' is now her kids lullaby much to their dismay.

Joey
Back from Hollywood with mixed results, he now lives in the room Monica and Chandler set aside for him while he decides what to do. Still an eligible bachelor, still never having found a woman to tame his wild single man ways. Now he wants to grow up so he is looking for Mrs Tribiani. Auditioning for roles in New York and teaching acting he is happy but knows something is missing from his life -  a family of his own.

Possible Storylines

• Janice did get that house next door. Many chances for Janice to 'accidentally' catch Chandler in uncompromising positions. 
• Ross' and Monica's parents bring a lonely Richard over for Thanksgiving dinner.
• Gunther has also moved to the suburbs - has a wife called Rachel.
• David has finally admitted defeat with his science career, he unfortunately delivers pizza to Phoebe's apartment.
• Monica goes to jail after her ex-landlord realises she was illegally sub-letting her apartment for so many years.
• Ross and Monica's routine saves the show at their kids talent show.

There are so many possibilities, don't be afraid to share any ideas - kind of running dry now I am trying to think. Every episode 'Friends' told us they would be there for us - hopefully they keep that promise.

New Addictions

So once again it is my favourite time in TV world. Not only are all my favourite shows returning, but they come with a whole bunch of new ones tagging along for the ride. Whilst my favourite shows like Modern Family, Parks and Recreation, Grey's Anatomy etc etc fill up most of my free time, I like to take the time to try new ones. Even though its almost guaranteed that most won't last more than a season I still like to watch them. So here are just a few of the new ones that I took a look at.

The Crazy Ones

Buffy may have ended 10 years ago but Sarah Michelle Gellar has stayed in my heart. I tried watching her show The Ringer, but I just didn't get attached (good job aswell as it got the can). She has returned in this 22 minute comedy along with the great Robin Williams. Its about a father and daughter who own an advertising company, not 100% sure where the crazy is, I mean Williams character is a bit eccentric but I don't want to judge him as crazy just yet. I really enjoyed it, and Kelly Clarkson acting like a diva is enough for anyone to tune in. 

Mom

Starring the beautiful alien-esque Anna Faris as a single mum/mom struggling with alcoholism. Its a comedy by the same creators of The Big Bang Theory so you know I was gonna tune in. My main issue is that Anna does not look old enough to be a mother to a teenager, but I got over that. Anna's unique acting skills that features a lot of gurning works perfectly, and her non-bond with her own mother (played by the amazing Allison Janney) is probably my favourite aspect. This kind of comedy is my favourite, plenty of laughs with heartfelt moments.

Sleepy Hollow

I saw the film years and years ago so I was worried I would need to watch it again to understand the TV show. Turns out I didn't need to as its completely detached. The story is basically that a man, Ichabod Crane, has been resurrected 250 years after he died, he died during some war (I should have payed more attention) after he beheaded someone. So of course the beheaded man has been resurrected aswell and is going around killing a load of folk. So Ichabod joins forces with the local police to help them, of course the police officer he joins forces with has a dark past and some connection to the demon stuff that is going on. I like the show, it does need a lot of attention - you blink and you miss something. I'm gonna stick with it and see where it goes.

Sean Saves The World

Starring Sean Hayes of Will & Grace fame as a gay, single dad struggling to balance work and raising his teenage daughter. My problem with this is that it is very similar to Jack from Will & Grace's storyline - a gay dad having to learn how to be father. It is a very funny show though and I will definitely watch it, it got a few giggles out of me. Some of the characters are a little too exaggerated and can be taken down a notch so we can actually relate to them. All in all a good start.

The Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D

A spin off from the film Avengers Assemble. Joss Whedon has brought his magic back to the TV screens with this very stylish, sleek, action-filled and funny TV show. It isn't a show you can come back and forth to as it has a running storyline to it which I am looking forward to seeing unravel. We haven't met any superheroes yet as it turns out S.H.I.E.L.D do a lot more than manage Superheroes and Gods. Loving the little cameos from the likes of Samuel L. Jackson and Cobie Smulders. Very funny show and a lot to like about it, looks expensive to make so I hope the studios don't lose confidence in it and cancel it.

Super Fun Night

If you know me then you know I have mad love for Rebel Wilson. So I was definitely going to tune in to a TV show she created and stars in. I wasn't disappointed at all. It was funny and heartfelt - with a little Ugly Betty about it. Rebel stars as a lawyer who is sick of not doing anything, so her and her two best friends decided to go out and have some fun, the first episodes see them enter a singing competition at a piano bar, Rebel kills it of course. If I could be a Debbie Downer for a second - I can't stand Rebel's american accent, it isn't necessary. It would not affect the story at all if she kept her aussie accent.

Brooklyn Nine-Nine

A half an hour cop show starring Andy Samberg. If I had to compare it to anything it would be like a police version of Scrubs (just without the the inner dialogue). It has its weird characters and far fetched storylines. It also has a heart and some very funny moments. It is also nice to see Terry Crews on TV, my only issue with that is that I get 'A Thousand Miles' stuck in my head after every episode. I can see this show possibly lasting a while and I would be happy to watch it.

Masterchef Junior

You know I will watch anything with Gordon Ramsey in it. God I love the man. However, if there is one thing that freaks me out it is overly confident children. I don't understand it, when I was a child I would run away from attention and hide under my duvet with my Scooby Doo plush toy. They are crazy talented and can say words that even I, a 25 year old man, struggle to say. This may come from a place of jealousy as I can't even cook a microwave meal with very clear and simple instructions (I have actually acquired a taste for burnt food).

Thank You Will & Grace

It is quite a big statement to say that one show can make a difference, but I have no hesitation to say that 'Will & Grace' did. It was the first show ever to have 2 lead characters that were gay. It showcased a gay man very differently than what had previously been seen. Homosexuals were often absent from mainstream shows or shown in a very stereotypical manner, 'Will & Grace' managed to avoid all stereotypes (or instead choosing to mock them) whilst still remaining true. The reason I am talking about 'Will & Grace' is because it is 15 years to the day from the airing of the first episode. Eight years, 83 Emmy nominations and 16 wins, 27 Golden Globe nominations, 17 Screen Actor's Guild nominations and 7 wins and millions of laughs later it came to an end.

It quickly became one of my favourite shows as I love a good american sitcom. The whole 'gay' aspect was completely lost on me at a younger age as I didn't really notice it. For me it was like a more grown up version of 'Friends'. I can still watch re-runs everyday and still laugh at it. My favourite character will always be Karen. She was a rich stuck up bitch with a heart when it mattered. Even though I do have a favourite, I don't hate any character that have ever been on the show. Will, Grace, Jack and Rosario made this show epic aswell.

Even though 'Friends' started the trend for guest stars, it was 'Will & Grace' that stepped it up a notch. They had Madonna, Cher, Elton John, Jennifer Lopez, Michael Douglas, Matt Damon and Janet Jackson to name a few.The best guest star they ever had will always be Molly Shannon in my eyes, Val was an amazing and crazy character and I always look forward to her episodes.

I will always be thankful for this show as it showed in an honest way that been gay was okay. They were the first show to show a man-on-man kiss. They were the first show to have a gay couple adoption. They were the first show to show a gay man as a man. Yes, Jack was a flamboyant character and was quite over the top, but Will equalled him out - he was a normal guy, who just happened to be gay.

The one thing I will always hate about 'Will & Grace' is how it ended. It shot forward 18 years in to the future. It showed that Will and Grace didn't speak for the entire time. So the request for a reunion episode is pointless. Unless of course they wait for another 10 years so the actors can catch up to the characters.

This show was one of a kind and it will never be replicated. I own every single episode on DVD (some even twice) and when I finish a run of 'Friends' I reach straight for the 'Will & Grace' boxset. I can quote this show perfectly and often do. The only thing that sucks is that the show never really took off in England. A lot of people are aware of it but not a lot have seen it. I blame E4 for not buying the rights, instead letting a cable channel (LivingTV) buy it.

I heard a rumour a few years back that a Broadway version of the show, mainly focused on Karen, was been produced. I call dibs on front row centre.

The Craigy's Will & Grace Edition

Favourite Main Character - Karen

Favourite Secondary Character - Rosario/Beverly Lesley

Favourite Guest Character - Val

Favourite Episode - 'Bed, Bath and Beyond'

Favourite Cameo - Cher

Favourite Season - 4 and 5 ( A Tie)

Favourite Love Interest - Leo

Favourite Dramatic Moment - Will & Grace argument over insemination 'I asked for one month ...'

Favourite Musical Moment - Jack and Karen 'Unforgettable'

Favourite WTF Moment - Jack has a son

Forever 21

I turned the grand old age of 25 the other week. I did have a happy birthday, I went out with my friends and got drunk and danced the night away. Although the thought of ageing can bring me to tears quite often. I absolutely hate the idea of getting old. I used to say that 25 was my 'scary age' -it is such a grown up age and the next big birthday I will have is 30. 30!

 I should have had so many more experiences and accomplishments by this age - but alas I don't. I have literally been in education for the last 21 years. I left high school at 16, went to college, then art college and now uni. I finish this year though. I should be happy but I am terrified. I don't know what to do with my adulthood. I have never had a full time job and if I am honest I don't ever want one. I get bored very easily and my attention span lasts for about 20 minutes and then I am gone.

The worst thing about my birthday is that I was always the oldest out of my friends. My birthday is September which is also the the first month of school. I used to like that because it was like I was the first one to experience things; but now I am just the older one. I am 25 and they are 24.

There are certain things that are expected to come with age, we are supposed to grow up and become responsible. No. No. No. As cliché as it sounds, age is just a number. My attitude to anything is not going to drastically change because I have been around the sun a number of times. I still want to have fun, I still want to experience things. I don't want to settle down and have a routine - I am not a 9-5 kind of boy. My biggest fear in life is to look back and have no fond memories of my twenties - lucky for me I am only half way through so I got a bit of time. So if anyone is reading this that I know and you want to go and do something, (money permitting) I will come with you. Getting old is horrible, accepting it is even worse.

I will be 21 forever.

TV Binging - A Serious Condition

I am not well. It started slowly and then developed in to this big thing that has completely taken over my life. I am of course talking about my TV binging. I will lose hours of conciousness at a time, I lose all concept of time and the most common thought in my head is 'Just one more'. It is a sickness, I will happily make no plans for days at a time knowing that I have an entire series of a television show to watch. I won't even eat for hours - as long as I have a can of coke, some cigarettes and my Netflix account details, I might aswell be dead to the world when I am in one of my sessions.

The thing is is that I am not even mad at myself for allowing it to happen. These people at these TV networks are creating art, and who am I to not acknowledge it? I am constantly learning life lessons without having to experience them - for a lazy person such as myself it works pretty well. Netflix has fast become my best friend; they are always recommending new things for me and they are always right. I discovered 'It's Always Funny In Philadelphia' and 'Criminal Minds' through their recommendations. American shows are the best things to binge watch as their seasons are around 22-24 episodes long so you know you got something for a while, its not like a British show where you get 6 episodes and that's your lot. Comedy is probably my favourite thing to binge, quickly followed by drama's and a bit of sci-fi. A new type I am starting to binge are American reality shows - I'm talking about Big Brother and The Amazing Race (I freaking love them).

So right now I am not looking for a cure, I am content. I know for a fact when I go back to Uni and civilisation in a week that I will miss my laptop more than anything. Unfortunately I can watch as much Project Runway as I want, but it won't get me a degree.

My Top Picks for Binge Watching

Orange is the New Black

Always Funny in Philadelphia

Orphan Black

Parks and Recreation

Buffy The Vampire Slayer

Charmed

30 Rock

The Big Bang Theory

American Horror Story

Arrested Development

Criminal Minds

Pretty Little Liars

Grey's Anatomy

Game Of Thrones

Modern Family

Gossip Girl

The Vampire Diaries

True Blood

Glee

New Girl

Girls

Plaid To The Bone

One of my favourite trends that I am confident will always come through the fashion rotating door is plaid. Whether you call it tartan, check, grunge, preppy, punk, catholic school girl or even lumberjack you should have at least one tartan piece in your closet. And to my delight it is back with a force. Mainly stemming from the new punk movement or re-introduction of 90's grunge; it can be found anywhere. I myself picked up a nice plaid shirt from Primark for a delicious price of £8.

The beauty of plaid is that it can be worn any way. It can be dressed up or down. My favourite way to see it is with a leather skirt or pant. The girl who wears plaid is a brave girl, a girl who isn't afraid to stand out and a girl who likes to look as if they don't give a shit. I prefer a blue based plaid myself but the classic red is just that - classic.

From the image above; on the left is all from ASOS (minus the gloves) - they have truly taken the plaid look and ran with it. On the left is examples of plaid hitting the runway for this season - Fall 2013. As you can see there is many ways to wear plaid, but  I feel a strict rule should be put in place - 1 piece at a time. Too much is trying to hard. So take note of this, get in there before everyone else does because lets face it we like to have things first. Even raid your mum's closet - guaranteed she has some Bay City Roller's flared trousers you can steal.

Commitment-phobe

I have huge issues with committing to things. I am very indecisive and hate making a final decision. I hate making plans really far in advance as it sits with me and gives me more time to come up with an excuse not to go - I have killed off non existent relatives to get out of things, it gets that bad. It's not because I am lazy or unsociable but it just seems that doing nothing alone is a better option. Below I will list some of the bane's of my life.

Brushing My Teeth
First of all I brush my teeth every day and have quite good oral hygiene - infact my dentist said that my major problem is that I brush too hard (so suck on that you judgy people). My issue is brushing my teeth at night. I don't want to make the commitment to not eating after a certain point. I eat very late at night more than any other time of the day, so brushing my teeth is like the cut off point - and I am never ready to commit to that.

Booking Train Tickets
I hate sorting out travel arrangements in advance. Most people do as it is the smart option and I even hear that you can save money by doing it before time. This has not changed my ways. I will pay for my ticket at the station. I hate been tied to a particular time or a particular train - I will get there in my own sweet damn time.

Buying Clothes
I have to go clothes shopping alone as I know for sure I would piss off the people I am with. In a shop I will at least walk around it twice before I even touch a garment, then when I find something I like I will examine it. I will look at the seams, the fastenings and the quality of the material. This is because I know I wear clothes to death and I need to know it is a commitment that I can be comfortable with.

Ordering Food
Why people go out to eat with me I don't know, there will always come a moment where I will start to panic. There are too many options in a restaurant and I never know what I want and almost always I will regret it. Food is a big deal for me - I love it - and when there are multiple choices I will start to freak because I don't want to make the wrong one. I really wouldn't mind if restaurants only served one dish.

Making Plans
Once again I hate planning in advance. I like to be asked to go somewhere moments before it is due to happen. I hate knowing I have to be ready for a certain time. There is nothing better than the feeling of someone cancelling plans. The relief can overwhelm you. I will rarely cancel plans, I will more than likely just show up late.

Going To The Gym
For me just been a member of the gym is enough for me, makes me feel instantly fitter. Going is another issue. I can not commit to putting myself through pain a couple of times a week. Also it could get in the way of my TV binging. I want to get fit and healthy and as soon as someone comes up with a pain free way that I could either do in my sleep or sitting down, I don't see it happening.

The Youth Of Hollywood

I don't mean to sound mean but I have a disdain for anyone who is younger than me and is successful. It is a bitterness inside of me that I think comes from the fact that I don't have anything of note on my CV. If I hear of a teenager winning some major award or getting some recognition I just roll my eyes and huff. However, some people's talent blinds me from the fact they have achieved more than I ever will.

Saoirse Ronan - 5 years younger than me
This BAFTA winning actress is not just talented but also so pretty. My favourite performance of her's has to be for 'Hanna'. She kicked arse and I am so looking forward to see where she goes - I only see great things for her.

Ariana Grande - 5 years younger than me
Her voice is so close to perfection it blows my mind. She is absolutely stunning and also a great comedic actress. Already a veteran of Broadway, Television and music.

Chloë Grace Moretz - 9 years younger than me
When I was 16 I was panicking about what to do with my life and what college course to take - she already has an established acting career that has seen her make millions at the box office. So excited for her in 'Carrie'.

Emma Roberts - 3 years younger than me
Been the niece of Julia Roberts was not enough for her - she wanted her own career. She has now been acting for 13 years. She is now going to star in 'American Horror Story: Coven' and I can't wait.

Logan Lerman - 4 years younger than me
It is hard to believe he is only 21. He has such a professional head on his shoulders and he is finally making waves in the movie business. Absolutely loved him playing Charlie in 'Perks of Being a Wallflower', I pretty much love everything he does.

Dakota Fanning - 6 years younger than me
I find it hard to believe she is only 19 as I can't remember a time when she wasn't around. She got her first acting role 13 years ago and all she has done is get better and better. Loved her's and Brittany Murphy's characters in 'Uptown Girls'. She will be the Meryl Streep of the next 50 years.

Natasha Calis - 11 years younger than me
She isn't that well known but her performance in 'The Possession' last year blew my mind. She was incredible and it has stuck in my head. I don't expect a lot from children in horror movies; but she just re-wrote the rules and created a standard.

Jennifer Lawrence - 2 years younger than me
I was absolutely gutted when I found out she was younger than me. I was convinced she was a few years older. She is an amazing actress and deserved all the awards - but its her I love more. In interviews she is hilarious and so 'normal'. You know there are so many more Oscars in her future.

Taylor Momsen - 5 years younger than me
Lover her as Little J in 'Gossip Girl'. I was upset when she left to pursue a music career but it was more than made up for with The Pretty Reckless. Their debut album was perfect and I can't wait to hear another one. Also I have seen her live and she was great - way beyond her years, it looked like she has been doing it forever.

The VMA's Restyled By Me

To say the least I was disappointed by the fashion on the red carpet at this years MTV VMA's. It was boring or weird. There was no happy middle ground. If I had to pick some of the best dressed it would be Katy Perry, Ciara and Ellie Goulding. I respected Rita Ora's choice because she chose to go with a bang - nothing says bang like a 20 foot feathered train. 

When it comes to some of these events there are certain people we look out for; these are the fashionable, edgy, cool, classy girls who pull something out of the bag. They may not shock us but they let us know that they are fashion aware and know how to dress. I was hugely disappointed with Taylor Swift, Selena Gomez, Lady Gaga, Rihanna and Miley Cyrus.

Miley Cyrus
What she wore - Dolce and Gabanna
What I would have put her in - Chanel Fall Couture 2013

She is trying too hard here to bring the 90's trend back. It's over the top whilst still being simple. I have a thing against leggings - don't like them and I never will. Pairing them up with oversized gems just angers me. Her hair looks stupid and I am a huge supporter of her new shorter do - but what the hell are those small buns all about? They only looked good on Scary Spice.
I put her in a silver dress from Chanel. I picked this because it keeps her looking youthful aswell as having a bit of a 90's throwback with the smaller skirt over the longer skirt. The length would be perfect on her and allow her to play with footwear - I would consider a shocking pink platform pump. Her shorter hair would also go flawlessly with this look, but instead of buns I would scrape it all back and add some volume on top.

Selena Gomez
What she wore - Atelier Versace
What I would have put her in -  Dior Fall Couture 2013

Lets all remember she is only 21. These are the perfect years to have fun and experiment fashion wise. It looks like she pulled this out of an ageing american soap-star's closet. It's tacky even for a 40 year old woman. I appreciate the playfulness of it with the revealing of undergarments, but there is no shape to it; where is her waist? It's so blah that even a revealed breast doesn't help it. Also full length sleeves should only be worn by women ashamed of their upper arms - I doubt she has this problem.
I put her in this cute Dior dress. The colour is a much more fun and a youthful blue than the one she chose. It's a bit risqué with the slit down the front of the middle of the dress, but it doesn't cross the line into trashy. The length is great for her as she doesn't have the longest of legs, so having it end above the knee will definitely create length. I am also in love with the material manipulation which gives the dress a seamless appearance.

Lady Gaga
What she wore -  Prabal Gurung
What I would have put her in - Giambattista Valli Spring Couture 2013

This dress she chose was so lacklustre, there is nothing special about it and the material is way too shiny that all I see is trash bags. Its like an unconventional materials challenge on 'Project Runway' gone wrong. It looks badly made and the bow is just sad. For a woman who loves to push boundaries she just looks boring.
The dress I chose isn't that different to her choice. Its black, has a fishnet material and isn't too out there. I feel my choice just speaks better for Gaga. Its fun and unconventional whilst being fashionable and edgy. Also I deliberately chose to give her blonde/white hair as it just stands out more and completes the look - she doesn't look so much like Helena Bonham Carter's weird little sister anymore.

Taylor Swift
What she wore - Hervé Léger by Max Azria
What I would have put her in - Ellie Saab Fall Couture 2013

One word for the dress she chose was 'blah' - my god it is so boring, We all know Taylor is loaded so she could have bought any dress she wanted. In recent years she has made some great choices (see the Grammy's this year) but what happened? She has gone for a column dress which are normally reserved for a shorter gal as they give length - Taylor does not need added height. It completely leaves her shapeless and it is so boring. Paired with the hair she looks 20 years older easily - never mind being 22 try 42.
The dress I chose isn't out there because at the end of the day she needs to be comfortable. I chose this emerald green Ellie Saab dress as I think it is very her (especially in the direction she should be going in). Its classy with an added something. The added something is a bit of sparkle but not in a trashy way. The sheerness will keep the youthfulness whilst the 3/4 length sleeve and full length keeps it respectable. This dress has a dropped back so we will see a gorgeous back and profile.

Rihanna
What she wore - Muscle shirt with a picture of MC Lyte and skinny cropped jeans.
What I would have put her in - Bouchra Jarrar Fall Couture 2013

I'm stuck with this one; on one hand I applaud her for choosing to keep it cool and comfortable, on the other hand I really think she could have at least tried. She was obviously in a mood where she didn't give a shit and just came to watch the show, collect her cheque and get gone. She did however provide the best entertainment from the show with her amazing unimpressed expressions.
To keep with her easy laid back style I chose this complete look from Bouchra Jarrar. I decided to keep her in trousers as she has legs for days so she always look amazing in them, I chose a cropped top because she has the abs I would kill for and then a baggy layer on top to keep the street look she has perfected. However from this look I would get rid of the belt - its overkill.

P.S excuse the shocking photoshop-ing, its late and I really wanted to do this post.