H.I.T.S.
I wandered online over to MySpace.com last night — albeit with slight apprehension. Previously, whenever I’ve looked at Web sites from people in our area, I’ve been a bit shocked at what I’ve seen: I presume that’s what they set out to do.
Working at Micarelli’s, I see my fair share of colored hair, weird hair, no hair (including me), earrings, nose rings, tattoos, ripped jeans (I still don’t believe we have them in fashion again) and wallets with chains.
In my case and at my age, my wallet has a chain so I don’t misplace it — it’s not a fashion statement.
Anyway, I’ve learned not to judge by appearance. I remember that I, too, had long hair once upon a time, so I understand the rebellion thing.
I’ve noticed the current chic thing is to have a “band” and have your band on MySpace or a video on YouTube.
First, I have to say that playing music teaches youth something more positive than video- gaming. Not only do you pick up some musical instrument skills (hopefully), but you also learn enough to record your band via video or audio and then upload it online.
I expanded my search on MySpace for Uniontown area bands and I was flooded with not only some of the bands I knew of, but also bands I’d never heard of and even a local record company.
In addition to already being in a band, it seems to be popular to be “soon having a band” or “really close to having a band.”
The sheer volume of this type of stuff is amazing and shows yet again the popularity of music in our culture, especially among the young.
Long may it thrive.
I hope that learning guitar doesn’t go “out,” at least not until the kindly old guitar teacher writing this column can’t lift a guitar any more.
But, seriously, the kids could be doing much worse things, as we well know. I’m pleased when I hear that our local schools are having talent contests, which seem to be including more young bands, along with dancers and solo instruments.
In fact, I’m currently coaching one of my students, Julie, who is going to play with one of her friends at a talent show. It’s a great self-esteem booster and nothing but positive.
Anyway, I was particularly impressed with a local band on MySpace called Breaking the Silence (see a href=”http://www.myspace.com/breakingthesilenceonline http://www.myspace.com/breakingthesilenceonline end
).
They’re a Christian metal band and they really blew me away. I have no doubt that we’ll see them one day on either network TV or on some big tour. All the members are local and they really have that “wow” factor that Simon Cowell talks about a lot on “American Idol.”
That show ( www.americanidol.com/
) is a touchy subject in our house, as Mrs. Schulze has sworn she will never watch it again after her favorite pick was voted off the show last week. By the time you read this, we’ll know who the new “American Idol” is. Whether you like the show or not, it’s certainly an amazing springboard for upcoming talent and I look forward to seeing their new show featuring bands.
Maybe we’ll see some local talent from our area.
Don’t forget that you can revisit our columns by going to bloodylimey.com and clicking on “H.I.T.S. archives.”
You can even see last week’s article, in which I wrote about our new 18V cordless weed whacker.
I was crushed when my wife beat me to the punch and sneakily used it first before I got a chance. She delivered the horrifying news over the phone. You know you’re getting old when you look forward to using a new grass-cutting aid.
Now, I have to go against the norm and hope the grass hurries up and grows.
Any way, according to her, it worked really well, although I sulkily critiqued her job. At least, this weekend (weather permitting), I get to use the new oil change tool I recently got online. I know she won’t want to beat me to the punch with that.
We’ll soon be announcing the winners of the Vista contest and our DVD software contest.
Also, by the time you read this, another H.I.T.S. show will be in the “can.” We look forward to you seeing the new show.
Finally, all Toyota owners out there with cute pets should check out this Web site at a href=”http://www.toyotaliveweb.com/dogdays.asp http://www.toyotaliveweb.com/dogdays.asp end
.
It’s a contest for cool pets, and I entered Basil, our (usually) loveable Yorkie’s picture in the contest.
Yes, I do have too much time on my hands.
Have a great week — and happy surfing.