We've moved

By the by, to those who still happen to swing by here, we've moved to www.TheDeensOnline.com. I also maintain a separate blog, www.GannsDeen.com.

Be blessed,

ganns

We're going to Palawan! Whee!

I blogged on my personal blog about a trip to Palawan that Cathy and I are taking, and that we’re staying at the Hotel Fleuris. Do swing by there and see what our Palawan vacation has to offer!

The one with the lyrics of Broken and Beautiful by Mark Schultz

Looking for the lyrics to Broken and Beautiful by Mark Schultz? Look no further.

BROKEN AND BEAUTIFUL
Mark Schultz
From the album Broken and Beautiful

There's a businessman
There's a widowed wife
A smIling face with a shattered life
A teenage girl with a choice to make
It's crowded here in church today

And the preacher says as the sermon ends
Please close your eyes
Bow your heads
Is there anyone in need of prayer
Oh Jesus wants to meet you here

'Cuz we all fall short and we all have sinned
But where you left, God's grace begins

It's beautiful
Beautiful
Come as you are
surrender your heart
Broken and beautiful

Well, he'd never been to church before
but he came today as a last resort
His world was crashing in
and he was suffocating in his sin

but tears rolled down as hope rushed in
He closed his eyes
Raised his hand
Worshipping the God who can bring him back to life again and

It's beautiful
Beautiful
Come as you are
surrender your heart
Broken and beautiful
Beautiful
Come as you are
surrender your heart
Broken and beautiful

'Cuz there's nothing more beautiful than God
and when his sons and daughters come broken

Hallelujah Hallelujah
come as you are
Hallelujah Hallelujah
Come as you are

Broken and beautiful
Beautiful
Come as you are
Surrender your heart
Broken and beautiful
Beautiful
Come as you are
Surrender your heart
Broken and beautiful

Come as you are
Broken and beautiful (Hallelujah)
Beautiful (Hallelujah)
Come as you are
Surrender your heart
Broken and beautiful
Broken and beautiful
Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh
Beautiful

There you go! Lyrics to Mark Schultz's Broken and Beautiful. Enjoy!

The one with the lyrics of Say Goodbye by Deborah Gibson and Jordan Knight

Looking for the lyrics of Jordan Knight and Deborah Gibson's Say Goodbye? Look no further.

JORDAN KNIGHT AND DEBORAH GIBSON
Say Goodbye
From the Jordan Knight album Love Songs

Jordan

Yeah
I've been so lost lately
I don't really understand baby
Wher did I go wrong
I wanna talk to you
Please call
Deborah
Where do I begin with you
after all that we've been through
I don't think that it would be right if we
got together so suddenly
Jordan
I wish that I could take back all the things that I said
and replace them with simply I love you instead

Deborah
You don't wanna say goodbye
But you never really seem like you wanna try
Jordan
But I only wanted you to stay
then I let you just slip away
Deborah
If you didn't listen to your heart inside
then it really doesn't matter what was on your mind
and if you need me then tell me why
Jordan
Girl, I never meant to say goodbye
Mmm Oh yeah

Jordan
I think about the past baby
Why we couldn't make it last, lady
I know you still have doubts
But I'm gonna prove that we can work things out
Deborah
I wanna be sure that you know what you put me through
and reveal that you intend to never let me down again
Jordan
It's clear to me and I can't ignore
that I have to give you something I couldn't before

Deborah
You don't wanna say goodbye
But you never really seem like you wanna try
Jordan
But I only wanted you to stay
then I let you just slip away
Deborah
If you didn't listen to your heart inside
then it really doesn't matter what was on your mind
and if you need me then tell me why
Jordan
Girl, I never meant to say goodbye

Deborah
I didn't think that we would come to this
Jordan
Ooh, no
Your eyes, your face, your smile is what I miss
Deborah
Why'd you wait so long to take me back
Deborah & Jordan
It's all a simple misunderstanding

Deborah
You don't wanna say goodbye
But you never really seem like you wanna try (Never wanna try)
Jordan
But I only wanted you to stay
then I let you just slip away
Deborah
If you didn't listen to your heart inside
then it really doesn't matter what was on your mind
and if you need me then tell me why
Jordan
Girl, I never meant to say goodbye

Deborah
You don't wanna say goodbye
But you never really seem like you wanna try (But I never meant to say)
Jordan
But I only wanted you to stay
then I let you just slip away
Deborah
If you didn't listen to your heart inside (Never meant to see you cry, never meant to say)
then it really doesn't matter what was on your mind
and if you need me then tell me why
Jordan
Girl, I never meant to say goodbye

There you go! The Say Goodbye lyrics, from the duet of Debbie Gibson and Jordan Knight. Enjoy!

Plan your perfect wedding proposal today!

From Perfect Proposals, the Philippine pioneer in wedding proposals, comes a book that is truly the first of its kind in the Philippines!

Perfect Proposals: Popping the Question the Pinoy Way, an e-book chockful of wedding proposal ideas, wedding proposal scheduling, wedding proposal advice, and wedding proposal tips, is now available for purchase for only P450! If you need help with wedding proposals, Perfect Proposals now has the perfect wedding proposal book for you!

Perfect Proposals: Popping the Question the Pinoy Way is total value for your money! This wedding proposal book contains practical and valuable advice on developing a wedding proposal that is tailor-made for your romantic partner. Get great information on:

* Making sure you are ready for marriage
* Asking your future in-laws for their daughter’s hand in marriage
* Developing your own creative, unique wedding proposal, including setting the budget and finding the right ring
* Organizing the proposal itself, with dozens of helpful hints on location, assistance, and finding the right suppliers

With dozens of questions to make you think and written in an easy-to-read, witty style, Perfect Proposals: Popping the Question the Pinoy Way is the perfect resource material for any Filipino man seeking to make the perfect wedding proposal.

The best part? Because Perfect Proposals: Popping the Question the Pinoy Way is an e-book (.pdf format, Adobe Acrobat required), you can get your copy within a day of purchase! Email us at superblessed at gmail dot com or send an SMS to 0920-9073962 to receive information on payment and delivery. For only P450, this is a tiny investment in making sure your girlfriend receives the once-in-a-lifetime proposal she’s dreamed of!

Plus! Every copy of the Perfect Proposals: Popping the Question the Pinoy Way e-book is watermarked with the name of the purchaser, so you know you are getting a genuine copy of the Perfect Proposals: Popping the Question the Pinoy Way e-book! No piracy, no fake copies, total value for your money.

Plus! We at PerfectProposalsOnline.com will offer a free online consultation to the first 50 buyers of Perfect Proposals: Popping the Question the Pinoy Way. After you’ve finished your proposal planning, you can send us a copy of your proposal plan and we’ll critique it for you, giving you suggestions to make your proposal even better, for free! That’s a free consultation with a P4500 value, available only to the first 50 buyers of the Perfect Proposals: Popping the Question the Pinoy Way e-book.

So what are you waiting for? Email us today at superblessed at gmail.com to get purchasing information. Print copies of the Perfect Proposals: Popping the Question the Pinoy Way - featuring more than two dozen successful Filipino wedding proposal stories - are on the way, but since we at PerfectProposalsOnline.com can’t guarantee an actual release date, we strongly encourage you buy the e-book so you can start planning your perfect wedding proposal today!

The one with E-Aji Dip Snax

Cathy, Nathan, and I are going crazy over this new snack food from San Miguel called E-Aji.

My mom and I discovered the E-Aji Dip Snax brand of snack chips that come with delicious Magnolia dips at Cash N' Carry and bought some to bring home to Cathy and Nathan. There are seven E-Aji DipSnax variants: Fries with Extremely Cheesy Garlic Dip, Fries with Totally Sweet chili Dip, Nachos with Fiesta Salsa Dip, Nachos with Extremely Cheesy Garlic Dip, Nachos with Groovy Mayo BBQ Dip, Ridges with Cheddar Cheese Dip, and Ridges with Totally Sweet Chili Dip.

It's SOOO much better than WalaStix, the Regent-created dip snack whose dip, unfortunately, is watered down and relatively tasteless. According to San Miguel Corporation, the Philippine juggernaut that manufactures E-Aji Dip Snax, E-Aji doesn't contain any MSG.

We liked the E-Aji Dip Snax fries with cheese dip, then the E-Aji Dip Snax fries with sweet chili. The E-Aji Dip Snax ridges were good too, but not as good as the fries, and the E-Aji Dip Snax nachos... meh.

At P15, definitely worth your money. Unfortunately for me, I'm restarting my diet today, so I'll allow myself maybe one pack a week, and that's it. But don't let my diet stop you from trying this totally delicious snack. Mmmmmm.

Terrible Penshoppe website

I was so excited for the Denim Love campaign of Penshoppe. While I don't necessarily agree with the selection of Jericho Rosales and Heart Evangelista for their latest set of image models, the Penshoppe denims do look nice, and with Penshoppe's latest promo (P1500 and get a free pair of denims), how can one resist, right?

Well, you can't get into the Penshoppe website to check out the merchandise. Don't get me wrong: the Penshoppe website is flashy but, hey, it's terrible. Despite the cool production and ubersexy photos, you actually can't get into the denim section of the Penshoppe website because you can't find the hyperlinks. First thing you see is a flash image that takes up the whole screen, with no 'Click here' instructions or anything. So you have to move your mouse around until you find the hidden hyperlink. After that, you see three photos, two of Heart and one of Jericho. You have to scroll every inch of Jericho's or Heart's photo to find a hyperlink, and when you do, clicking on it does nothing.

Argh. It was wasted time, and I seriously doubt they have any jeans in my size anyway, so I guess it's back to Guess? for me.

The one with my skin art (read: tattoos)

When I was a sophomore at the Ateneo de Manila University and a member of a band (weren't we all?), I wanted to get a tattoo. So I did, and the rebel in me said, go with something fierce, so this was my first tattoo:

Calvin and Hobbes

After that, about six months later, I got another one:

Tiger scratching its way out of my right torso

Finally, about a year later, I got a third and final one:

An ankh on the back of my neck - Egyptian ankhs mean "life"

It's not that I'm showing off or anything, but I realize that I have three tattoos and no mention of it anywhere online. These are part of my journey, and I'm not ashamed to admit I have them.

The one with how my life as a writer is terribly sad

My main source of income involves writing press releases and copy for hotels and websites. Do you have any idea how much it stings to write about how this hotel is so classy and awesome, but I've never seen it?! Or to write about Boracay and having never been there?!

*sigh*

The one with the guy who thanked Jesus and ended up in jail

Check this out: a Hawaiian native who was acquitted by a jury of abusing his son was jailed for contempt of court for shouting out "Thank you, Jesus!" after the verdict was read. While he did not have to spend days in jail, and was only held in the courtroom and a cell block for six hours, family members and the gentleman's pastor at the Assembly of God Church, who all watched from the gallery were "very upset that those words could land somebody in jail."

Tsk tsk tsk.

Pinoy Dream Academy - give me a song title!

I learned over the KATHA Yahoogroups that Pinoy Dream Academy is looking for song submissions. Sixteen songs - in the vein, I imagine, of A Moment Like This, Believe, and Inside Your Heaven, among other American Idol I-will-survive-and-triumph-over-adversity tracks - will be chosen, and each composer gets P100,000.00.

Wow. I want in on that action. :D

And here’s a chance for you to get in on that action, too! LOL Give me a song title that I can use for my entry to the Pinoy Dream Academy songwriting competition. I’ll use the song title I like best, and will give the person who suggested it P3,000 if the song (with your title!) makes it into the finals.

The one with the return to the studio

I’m headed into the studio again tomorrow to lay the instrumental tracks to three original worship songs (Incomparable, Heaven and Earth, and I Desire) and two praise songs (So Good and Testify).

I’m particularly excited for the praise songs, because I’ve been playing with a Darkchild feel to the tracks, taking inspiration from Mary Mary (He Said), Brandy (What About Us?) and Michael Jackson (You Rock My World). At the same time, I’m a little inspired by some of the old school dance/hiphop sound of Soulshock & Karlin (Mary Mary, CeCe Peniston) and Warryn Campbell, so this should be an interesting project.

If we want to reach out to the youth of the nation, we need to work with their music, and let’s face it, I stand a better chance of touching someone’s heart with some hot hiphop/R&B jams than my current, admittedly stodgy Michael W. Smith/Mark Schultz A/C creations so far.

Is the music keepin’ it real? I don’t know. Is the praise real? Fo’ sho’.

The one with Wilson Phillips singing "Hold On" live

At the Billboard Music Awards in 1990, winning the award for Billboard Hot 100 Single of the Year. Man, can you believe that was 16 years ago?!

The one with The Edge Radio 91.5FM in Manila

On July 1st, 2006, The Edge Radio, Metro Manila's first all-Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) radio station, goes live from 6PM to 6AM. With music coming in from many of the world's foremost Christian artists, including American CCM artists Switchfoot, MercyMe, and Casting Crowns, and local CCM artists Kitchie Nadal and Barbie Almalbis, The Edge Radio will broadcast 12 glorious hours of CCM daily.

Please help spread the word about The Edge Radio by posting similar announcements on your blog, Friendster, MySpace, or Multiply pages. Tell your friends in your small groups, discipleship groups, and churches. Be part of Filipino-Christian history in the making, with God-glorifying music on local airwaves.

Visit The Edge Radio's official website at http://www.theedgeradio.net.

Email The Edge Radio at info at theedgeradio dot net.

Text The Edge Radio at 0918-795-8665.

Make friends with The Edge Radio on Friendster by looking for "edge radio."

Join The Edge Radio's mailing list: ontheedgeradio@yahoogroups.com

The one with lyrics of A Better Way by Downhere

Looking for the lyrics to A Better Way by Downhere? Look no further! Here it is.

A BETTER WAY
Downhere
From the album Wide-eyed and Mystified

I'm not alone, I really believe
You never go, You never leave
Here and now, You always stay
"I love you" could not be said a better way

It's everything You've promised
There's no greater love than this
From prophets until today
A man laying down His life for His friends
Your sacrifice has spoken, You gave everything
And "I love you" could not be said
A better way

I am forgiven, I clearly see
It's why You came to do all you did for me
Trading earth with heaven, You took my place
"I love you" could not be said
A better way

Because You redeem, I know what's to come
Everything I could lose here, You've already won
So You have my surrender, with passion obey
"I love you" could not be said
A better way

There you go! Lyrics to Downhere's A Better Way. Enjoy!

The one with lyrics of You Alone by Echoing Angels

Looking for the lyrics to You Alone by Echoing Angels? Look no further! Here it is.

YOU ALONE
Echoing Angels


Desperately wanting
To just find a way
I'm searching and seeking
For someone to save

That it's all right
And it's okay
Like I know You can
That it's all right
And it's okay
Like I know You can

You alone are God
I am Yours and You're mine
And I know the heavens
will call out Your name if I don't

I close my eyes
And I drift away
To a place I remember
To a place I feel safe

Where it's all right
And it's okay
'Cuz I'm there in Your arms
Where it's all right
And it's okay
'Cuz I'm there in Your arms

You alone are God
I am Yours and You're mine
And I know the heavens
will call out Your name
Yes I know the heavens
will call out Your name

You forgive me
You accept me
Just as I am
And You love me
And You want me
To understand

I am Yours and You are mine
And I will worship You yeah,

You alone are God
I am Yours and You're mine
And I know the heavens
will call out Your name if I don't (yeah, yeah)
You alone are God
I am Yours and You're mine
And I know the heavens
will call out Your name
will call out Your name
And I know the heavens will worship
You alone
You alone are God, yeah

There you go! Lyrics to Echoing Angels' You Alone. Enjoy!

The one with lyrics of Shine by Salvador

Looking for the lyrics to Shine by Salvador the Christian group? Look no further! Here it is.

SHINE
Salvador
From the album Dismiss the Mystery

I woke up to another day
Another day to celebrate
Your beauty and your mystery
is more than I can see

I'm not the man I was before
With you my life is so much more
Break the chains and open doors
To a world I can't ignore

Lord let me shine
Shine like the moon
A reflection of You
all that I do
Lord let me be
Light for Your Truth
Light of the world
I wanna be used to shine for You

Simple as a passing smile
or listening a little while
to someone that's convinced they're in this all alone
Here's my chance to share the news
to introduce that good that's you
here you go again
you never cease to blow my mind

Lord let me shine
Shine like the moon
A reflection of You
all that I do
Lord let me be
Light for Your truth
Light of the world
I wanna be used to shine for You

You're the love that we all need
You lift us up to our feet
You hold the key to eternity
King of Kings and life in me

Lord let me shine
Shine like the moon
A reflection of You
all that I do
Lord let me be
Light for Your truth
Light of the world
I wanna be used to shine for You
Shine for You
Shine for You

There you go! Lyrics to Salvador's Shine. Enjoy!

The one with the MusiChristian Launch Party 2006

THIS IS GONNA BE AWESOME!

Brand-new Las Pinas townhouse for rent

Our Royal South townhouse in Las Pinas will be available for rent for only P9,000/month starting March 1, 2010.

Cathy and I are renting out our townhouse in Las Pinas City. If you're looking to rent a house in Las Pinas, please take a look at our Las Pinas townhouse, situated in private, safe subdivision Royal South Subdivision, only ten minutes away from SM Southmall and other exciting places along the Zapote area.

There is a parking slot in front of the house, and there are no problems with water and electricity. There is a small monthly association fee to ensure the security of the subdivision.

Our asking price for our Las Pinas City townhouse for rent is only P9000/month (other properties in the same area are renting in the Php10,000 to Php13,000 range). Terms are one month advance and two months deposit. Please email us at superblessed at gmail dot com or call 0908-892-2377.

Photos here (note: furniture belongs to previous tenant. Tenants provide their own furniture).

The one with American Idol Season 5:The Encores

Having purchased American Idol Season 5: The Encores, I have to say the quality of this season's batch is certainly formidable, and for the quality of three tracks on this album, the soundtrack is definitely worth purchasing. My review comes from the perspective of a 30-year-old with A/C leanings.

Excellent work
Paris Bennett. Midnight Train to Georgia. Paris vamps and sings her way through this Gladys Knight chestnut with all the sass, pomp, and circumstance belying her 17 years. She certainly does a noteworthy job, blasting Season 3's Jasmine Trias out of the water and coming up with a performance that is memorable, albeit a bit too strong for the emotions required of the song.

Elliott Yamin. Moody's Mood for Love. Spectacular, albeit watered down, retake on the first track that got Mr. Yamin noticed in the first place. His rehash of the James Moody-penned original is superb and near-flawless, with perfect runs and a rich, soulful voice that may well send Elliott on a long and storied career. Breathtaking.

Melissa McGhee. What About Love? McGhee was voted off much too early, and the album opener shows what I knew from the start: McGhee's voice has what it takes to produce songs of topnotch quality. McGhee growls her way to a winning performance with her cover of the original smash by Heart, and delivers a vocal that is impressive and should do Ann Wilson proud. Superb.

Very Good Tracks
Taylor Hicks. Taking It to the Streets. While Season Five winner Hicks has an instantly recognizable voice and a clear idea of where he wants to go, song selection is what makes a winner (listen up, Fantasia), and this Michael McDonald chestnut is uplifted only by Hicks' stellar vocal delivery. Hicks is also encumbered by McDonald's star-making memorable delivery, and comparisons will be expected.

Katherine McPhee. Think. Kat's voice is sterling, and her looks are enviable. Her vocal, meanwhile, is hearty and spirited, despite the fact that McPhee is no Aretha Franklin. Nor is she Fantasia, who delivered a blow-the-roof-off a capella version of this in the prelims in Season Three. Kat has been labelled a diva balladeer, and I think she would do well to package herself as such.

Worth a spin (or three)

Bucky Covington. Superstition. I enjoyed his version of this on the show (did not like the hair, but moving on…). Covington delivers a spirited version of the Stevie Wonder original, and succeeds in making it a track truly his own. While his country leanings certainly do not shine on this track, given its funk-rock treatment, he does make a statement about how far the underdog can come if given the right material. Smokin'.

Chris Daughtry. Wanted Dead or Alive. I was not a Daughtry fan, but there's no denying that Chris has an instantly recognizable voice and a ne'er-say-die confidence that carried him far into the competition. Daughtry does this Bon Jovi original proud, giving it a raspiness and air that lends a new dimension to the song. Kudos.

Ace Young. Father Figure. Never was a Young fan, but he does deliver a decent take on this George Michael hit. Young's breathy, almost nasal delivery channels Michael down to the core, and comparisons between Michael and Young are expected. They have much in common. ;)

The world won't end if you skip these tracks

Mandisa. I'm Every Woman. I was the biggest Mandisa Hundley fan, even after she was eliminated, but her version of this Chaka Khan hit on this compilation is weak and lacking in energy, the kind of energy that she brought to the stage. The arrangement was all wrong, with a listless bassline and vocals that were overwhelmed by the volume of both the instruments and backup vocalists. I blame the producer for this mess.

Kellie Pickler. Walking After Midnight. Sass and spunk may be Pickler's stronger points, but it certainly doesn't show on her cover of the Patsy Cline classic. Her otherwise pure vocals are drowned in a cacophony of pseudo-rock beats and half-hearted growls. She may have a career in musical comedy, though, so don't cry for Ms. Pickler; she's good to go a long way.

Kevin Covais. When I Fall in Love. I'm sorry, but young, precocious Covais brings nothing new to this Nat King Cole gem. Emotion-wise and vocal-wise, Kevin can't pull it off. He does have a pure voice, one that, with time, may just become an amazing voice to remember, but based on his rendition right now, I can't see that happening.

Lisa Tucker. Signed Sealed Delivered (I'm Yours). This is one of my favorite Stevie Wonder songs of all time, and Tucker issues a singing-by-numbers, nasal and dragging version that grates on the nerves of anyone who's ever heard quality covers of this track (including those by Wonder, Brian McKnight and British boy band Blue, which channels Wonder and Angie Stone for an excellent revival). This track isn't even forgettable; you'll remember it for how bad it is compared to the other tracks. She may be young, and a career may be in front of her, but I won't jump onto that bandwagon.

The one with the 'My Perfect Proposal' contest

To celebrate June weddings, Perfect Proposals, the Philippines' only wedding proposal coordination and assistance service, is offering one lucky gentleman a chance at a truly memorable proposal!

Are you looking to propose to your special someone? Send us your vision of your perfect proposal and allow us to see where we can help you!

The most romantic, creative proposal idea will win a Perfect Proposals package consisting of complete proposal planning and assistance from Perfect Proposals*, as well as coverage of the actual proposal from a local television show (complete prize details will be made available only to the winner).

The best part of this contest? All entries will receive replies from Ganns or Catherine Deen,
co-owners of Perfect Proposals, giving an initial assessment of your proposal idea - for free! Learn from the experts and see if your proposal is doable and well within your budget!

So what are you waiting for? Email us your name, contact information, and proposal idea (in 500 words or less) at superblessed@gmail.com on or before 5PM, Friday, June 16, 2006. Visit us at http://www.perfectproposalsonline.com for more information!

----------------------------------

* Please note that Perfect Proposals will be responsible for proposal planning and coordination only, and will not be responsible or expected to provide financial assistance.

The one where we've moved

This may come as a surprise, but please update your blog links! Cathy, Nathan and I have moved! See you at www.TheDeensOnline.com!

You can also swing by GannsDeen.com, my new blog! Expect a spankin' new website within the next two weeks! Praise God!

The one with new FaithFactor items

Some new items on FaithFactor. Do swing by, please!

Superblessed Wall Clock. Cute!

White Sheep Journal! Adorable!

U-Turn Messenger Bag. Trendy!

Black Sheep Tee! Hip!

The one with Ain't No Other Man by Christina Aguilera

Christina Aguilera's new single, Ain't No Other Man, is now fully available for download on ITunes and listening on her official website. Ain't No Other Man is a darn good song, quite catchy, with nothing like it on the radio.

Aguilera's album Back to Basics drops August 15 via RCA. Ain't No Other Man is HOT. I love it. Take that, Britney.

Are you looking for the complete lyrics to Ain't No Other Man by Christina Aguilera? Look no further.

AIN'T NO OTHER MAN
Christina Aguilera
From the album Back to Basics

Hey (Do your thing honey)

I could feel it from the start
Couldn't stand to be apart
Something about you caught my eye
Something moved me deep inside
I don't what you did boy but you had it
And I've been hooked ever since
Told my mother, my brother, my sister and my friends
Told the other, my lovers from past and present tense (all right)
And everytime I see you, everything starts making sense
(Do your thing, honey)

Ain't no other man can stand up next to you
Ain't no other man on the planet does what you do (what you do)
You're the kinda guy, a girl finds in a blue moon.
You got soul, you got class.
You got style, Shake your bad *ss
Ain't no other man it's true (alright)
Ain't no other man but you

Never thought I'd be all right (no no no)
'Til you came and changed my life (yeah yeah yeah)
All was cloudy now it's clear, yeah yeah
You're the life that I needed
You've got what I want boy and I want it
So keep on giving it up

Tell your mother, your brother, your sister and your friends
All the others, your lovers, better not be present tense
'Cuz I want everyone to know that you are mine and no one else's

Ain't no other man can stand up next to you
Ain't no other man on the planet does what you do
(what you do)
You're the kinda guy, a girl finds in a blue moon.
You got soul, you got class.
You got style, Shake your bad *ss
Ain't no other man its true (alright)
Ain't no other man but you.

(Break it down now)
Ain't no other
Ain't Ain't no other other
Ain't no other
Ain't Ain't no other lover
Ain't no other
I, I, I need no other lover
Ain't no other man but you

You are there through all of this
Talked me down from every ledge
Give me strength oh you're the best
You're the only who's ever passed every test

Ain't no other man can stand up next to you
Ain't no other man on the planet does what you do
(what you do)
You're the kinda guy, a girl finds in a blue moon.
You got soul, you got class.
You got style, Shake your bad *ss
Ain't no other man its true (alright)
Ain't no other man but you.

There you go! Complete lyrics to Christina Aguilera's Ain't No Other Man, the first single off Back to Basics, out August 15, 2006. Enjoy!

Update: Corrected lyrics with suggestions from Jekka.

The one with the excitement for Brian Littrell's Welcome Home

I'm so inspired by Brian Littrell. I'm not ashamed to admit I listened to Backstreet Boys back in the 90s. Almost 13 years later, Brian Littrell (B-Rok, I think was his pretty-boy nick) releases his solo venture, Welcome Home, which debuted at #3 on Billboard's Top Christian Albums chart a month ago. I'm very excited for Welcome Home to hit local shores; I'll be sure to snap up a copy; the track's now #6 on my personal chart. :)

Here's an acoustic performance of Welcome Home by Brian Littrell on the 700 Club. [Thanks, YouTube.]




WELCOME HOME
Brian Littrell
Off the Provident release Welcome Home

When I left home to be who I am
Some people said "No Way"
But I laid it all down, gave everything
In my head rang the words that my father said

You're never far
I will be where you are
and when you come to me
I will open my arms

Welcome Home, you
I know you by name
How do you do?
I shine because of you today
So come and sit down
Tell me how you are
I know son, it's good just to see your face.

When I look at you holding my heart
I will give to you all that I have
Son I know there'll be times
You will feel all alone
I will share with you the words my father said

You're never far
I will be where you are
and when you come to me
You can bet I will open my arms

Welcome Home, you
I know you by name
How do you do?
I shine because of you today
So come and sit down
Tell me how you are
I know son, it's good just to see your face

Said I've been waiting for that day
Just to feel your warm embrace
Your love has shown
I will never be alone
You will welcome me home

I'll forever be
You will say to me
Welcome Home, you
I know you by name
How do you do?
I shine because of you today
So come and sit down
Tell me how you are
I know son, it's good just to see your face

When I left home to be who I am
Some people said "No Way"

The one with the video of Find Your Wings by Mark Harris

Find Your Wings by Mark Harris has been on my charts for more than a month now, and I haven't grown tired of Find Your Wings. Thanks to YouTube, I've found the video of Mark Harris' Find Your Wings, and I'm tearing up yet again.

As I mentioned in a previous blog entry, I picture Nathan growing up to become a God-fearing person who does great things for Jesus and his country, and I get all choked up. I am not a big fan of Mark Harris, but this song makes me an instant convert. The second single from his solo album, The Line Between the Two, Find Your Wings is a ballad about love of family and children - a classic, guaranteed bestseller in my book.

Wanna hear it? Click here for the full song on Mark Harris' Myspace page.

For those of you who are looking for lyrics to Mark Harris' Find Your Wings, look no further. What an amazing song.

FIND YOUR WINGS
Mark Harris
From the INO album The Line Between the Two

It's only for a moment you are mine to hold
The plans that heaven has for you
Will all too soon unfold
So many different prayers I'll pray
For all that you might do
But most of all I'll want to know
You're walking in the truth
And If I never told you
I want you to know
As I watch you grow

Chorus:
I pray that God would fill your heart with dreams
And that faith gives you the courage
To dare to do great things
I'm here for you whatever this life brings
So let my love give you roots
And help you find your wings

May passion be the wind
That leads you through your days
And may conviction keep you strong
Guide you on your way
May there be many moments
That make your life so sweet
Oh, but more than memories

Chorus

It's not living if you don't reach for the sky
I'll have tears as you take off
But I'll cheer as you fly

The one with the quick and easy pork steak recipe

I tried out an experiment today that turned out extremely well. Today marks the second day I'm on the Atkins way of life, and I've been preparing my own low-carb, high protein meals (save for dinner last night, which was a delicious chicken stew with tomatoes and carrots prepared by by my wife Cathy; I didn't eat the carrots to avoid additional sugar).

Yesterday, I made myself a great chicken stir-fry, which was quite good, but I'm particularly excited about today's lunch, a dry-rub pork steak that I wasn't sure would turn out well, but if the aroma is any indication, I may just have made myself another diet hit. Mmmm.

So to share with y'all, this is Ganns' Quick and Easy Pork Steak.

You will need:
Two pork steaks, approx. ¼ kilo (half a pound)
Salt
Pepper
Italian seasoning
Garlic powder

Directions:
1.Defrost the pork steaks and lay out on two plates.
2.Dry rub salt, pepper, Italian seasoning and garlic powder into both sides of the steaks. Make your own estimates, but my own estimate revolves around a quarter teaspoon of salt and pepper each on each side, then half a teaspoon each of Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
3.Let sit 10 minutes.
4.Fry on two teaspoons of sesame oil (you can use olive, canola, peanut, or vegetable, but I like how sesame oil smells) on a non-stick pan.

Tada! It's guaranteed delicious, much better than if you were to marinate it in sugar-laden teriyaki, barbecue or soy sauce. Check out Husband Chronicles for other great guy-made recipes and household tips.

The one with Faith Factor

The Superblessed Pink Ladies' Cap Sleeve

The Superblessed Blue Men's Ringer Tee

Hi! I invite you all to visit FaithFactor on CafePress. Faith Factor now carries a line of Superblessed tees! Whee!

The one with Chris Daughtry beating Taylor Hicks

Check it out! The Hot Shot Debut this week on the Billboard Hot 100 belongs not to American Idol winner Taylor Hicks, but fourth runner-up Chris Daughtry! Daughtry's remake of Bon Jovi's 1987 smash Wanted Dead or Alive bows at #43, beating Hicks' Taking It to the Streets, which enters at #69. As per It's the first time an American Idol winner hasn't debuted on the Hot 100 with the winning single, but it's not the first time an American Idol winner has been beated to the Hot 100 by a non-winner, because in Season 2, Clay Aiken pipped Reuben Studdard to #1, when the Season 2 runner-up's This is the Night blasted the Velvet Teddy Bear's Flying Without Wings.

Many people believe Daughtry was robbed, and while I hope he has a long career, at least this is one pretty little footnote he can take with him in case it doesn't work out for him.

And on one final note to end this particular entry, Nellie Furtado jumps 9-3 with Promiscuous, her single off the album Loose, out third week of June 2006. It's a track with Timbaland, and while I hate the lyrics, I have to admit this is ONE HOT SINGLE. Off tha hook. You gotta hear it - Promiscuous could be the next summer single after Rihanna's SOS. My prediction for next week's Hot 100: Chamillionaire's Ridin', the current #1 champ loses its #1 slot for one week for Taylor Hicks' Do I Make You Proud, then goes back up to #1 for another week before Furtado takes the throne for her first-ever #1 single. Go Nellie!

The one where I return to the studio

Last night, I began the first of what hopefully will be three nights of recording to produce another series of demos. Having been out of the studio for more than a year, I must admit I was a little rusty, and the first song I elected to record, It's Not Easy, a secular track about trying to move on after a breakup, was probably not the best lead-off choice. I had a hard time with the low key, and the tempo I chose was a little too slow for the vision I had for the track. Whatever southern-rock ideas I had for It's Not Easy, a la Train, Daniel Powter, or Hootie and the Blowfish, disappeared in a hodgepodge of what I can only describe as second-rate Backstreet Boys.

Let's face it, I don't have a growly man-voice, and I don't think I ever will. LOL

Maybe it's just me, but I find it getting more difficult to write 'regular' songs now. I certainly hope it isn't an indication of anything snooty, but praise and worship songs just come out of me so much easier. The track list I determined over the course of last week for recording shows this: I have only two 'regular' songs in the list, compared to five worship tracks.

1. It's Not Easy [secular]
2. Incomparable [worship]
3. Heaven and earth [worship]
4. I Rely on You [worship]
5. I Desire [worship]
6. My Heart Will Trust [worship]
7. Chasing Stars [secular]

The men of Sound Weavers, the new digital recording studio in Makati City I discovered, made it really comfortable and easy to record, though. I love this studio. Hopefully, within the next two weeks, I'll have something new up.

The one with the first French Open 2006 blog

I'm eagerly watching French Open news, following Martina Hingis as she tries to win the only Grand Slam tournament she hasn't won. I am always thrilled when I log onto Yahoo! Sports to see a Hingis win, and today didn't disappoint, as Martina Hingis dispatched veteran Lisa Raymond, 6-2, 6-2.

Even more happily for me, her half of the draw was split wide open when red-hot Russian Nadia Petrova suddenly turned cold and lost in a first-round shocker to unheralded Japanese Akiko Morigami, 6-2, 6-2. While Hingis didn't appear scheduled to meet Petrova until the semifinals, this certainly makes her journey a lot easier. At this rate, the only major stumbling blocks to a Hingis victory appear to be deadly Justin Henin-Hardenne (whose consistency on clay and mental fortitude are certainly up and up better than the testy Hingis, who, while she has shown considerable mental improvement, has yet to undergo a major Grand Slam since her comeback); unheralded Shahar Peer, who won the Istanbul Cup, beating Anna-Lena Groenfeld and Anastacia Myskina on the way; and Kim Clijsters, who, while not in the best of shape, did still beat her at the quarterfinals of the Australian Open. I wouldn't worry about Hingis-Williams (Venus isn't at her best), Hingis-Mauresmo (Amelie hasn't historically performed well at the French), Hingis-Sharapova (Maria's injured) and Hingis-Safina (Hingis beat her twice in the two times they met). She can take 'em down!

The one with the recording studio in Makati

After much searching for a recording studio in Makati, I've finally found a Makati recording studio I can use! Praise God! Hahaha!

The name of the Makati recording studio is SoundWeavers. Located at Unit 3301 Cityland Pasong Tamo Tower,Don Chino Roces Ave., Makati City, right in front of Don Bosco and beside WalterMart, where parking is ample, this recording studio in Makati is swee-heeet!

Sound Weavers' studio equipment is topnotch, including Peavy Predator strat style electric guitar, Yamaha guitar amplifier, Fender Blues Deluxe guitar amp, Morley Wah, Boss DS1, Guitar POD, Warwick Corvette bass guitar, SansAmp Bass DI, Aphex Bass Xciter, Bass POD, Trace Elliot bass amp, Gallien Kruger bass amp & speakers, Pearl ELX drum set with Sabian Pro Sonix cymbals. All digital recording, all updated software (legit, FYI).

Best part? Sound Weavers recording studio in Makati charges only Php900 per hour for the main studio (P7,500 per 10-hour day), and the rates include the use of the instruments! You can't get value like that for a Makati recording studio for P900 an hour, come on!

Within the next two weeks, I hope to upload a bunch of new worship songs that I (intend to) record at Sound Weavers. I'm sure I'll be happy with the results. Booyah!

You can call Sound Weavers at 7295243. Look for Monmon, Neil or Gerry. Tell 'em Ganns sent you, because I'm so pleased with the place.

The one with the lyrics of My Destiny by Katharine McPhee

Looking for the lyrics to My Destiny by Katharine McPhee, sung at the American Idol 2006 finale? Look no further.

MY DESTINY
From the season finale of American Idol 2006

I have always dreamed of this
I'll admit that there was something I missed
Wondering if it is for real
Every mistake Every wrong turn
Everytime I lost my way
Led me to this moment of bliss tonight

With you
Finally I can break free
With you
It's all changing in my destiny
Dream come true
It's so funny now that I see
How different life turned to be

You were always by my side
That you believed in me was enough reason why
I didn't stop
Didn't give up
Even if sometimes I lost hope
I did my best
And I am blessed in life

With you
Finally I can break free
With you
It's all changing in my destiny
Dream come true
It's so funny now that I see
How different life turned to be

Yeah
Can I get any higher?
Tell me
Does it get any stronger?
I owe it to you that I made it through
I never could have done it without you

With you
Finally I can break free
(I can break free, yeah)
With you
It's all changing in my destiny
Dream come true
It's so funny now that I see
How different life turned to be

With you
Finally I can break free
(Oh, cause of you)
With you
It's all changing in my destiny
Dream come true
It's so funny now that I see
I've realized that it's my destiny

There you go! Lyrics to Katherine McPhee's My Destiny, off the finale of American Idol 2006.

The one with the lyrics to Taylor Hicks' Do I Make You Proud

Looking for the lyrics to Do I Make You Proud by Taylor Hicks, sung at the American Idol 2006 finale? Look no further.

DO I MAKE YOU PROUD
From the season finale of American Idol 2006

I've never been the one to raise my hand
That was not me
And now that's who I am
Because of you
I am standing tall

My heart is full of endless gratitude
You were the one
The one to guide me through
Now I can see
And I believe it's only just beginning

This is what we dream about
But the only question with me now
is Do I make you proud?
Stronger than I've ever been now
Never been afraid of standing out
But do I make you proud?

Everybody needs to rise up
Everybody needs to be loved
To be loved

This is what we dream about
But the only question with me now
is do I make you
Do I make you proud?

This is what we dream about
But the only question with me now
(Ain't no question is)
is Do I make you proud
Stronger than I've ever been now
Never been afraid of standing out
Do I make you proud?
Do I make you proud?

There you go! Lyrics to Taylor Hicks' Do I Make You Proud, off the finale of American Idol 2006.

The one with the rare Deborah "Debbie" Gibson videos

As the Superblessed regulars know, the first thing my wife Cathy and I had in common was a love for most things Deborah "Debbie" Gibson, a popular teen singer back in the 80s. Her career lasted approximately five years, starting in the mid-80s and fizzling out sometime in 1992.

What some people don't know is that she produced some of her better (sexier) work after then. Here are some videos to view; tell us what you think.



WHAT YOU WANT



LOSING MYSELF



FOR BETTER OR WORSE



ONE HAND ONE HEART



DIDN'T HAVE THE HEART



SHOCK YOUR MAMA



YOU'RE THE ONE THAT I WANT



THIS SO-CALLED MIRACLE

Of course, we need the classics! Debbie Gibson's videos Electric Youth! Only in my Dreams! LOL



ELECTRIC YOUTH



NO MORE RHYME



LOST IN YOUR EYES



SHAKE YOUR LOVE



ONLY IN MY DREAMS



FOOLISH BEAT

The one with the American Idol 2006 winner

There's a spoiler a-comin'.

Who won American Idol 2006? Taylor Hicks, on the left, or Katharine McPhee, on the right?



With my wife Catherine watching at home, after two hours of American Idol music featuring Taylor Hicks, Katherine McPhee, Elliot Yamin, Chris Daughtry, Paris Bennett, Kellie Pickler, Ace Young, Bucky Covington, Mandisa, Lisa Tucker, Kevin Covais, and Melissa McGhee, as well as musical guests Prince, Meatloaf (!), Toni Braxton, and Mary J. Blige, among others, and a special parents' award for Claudette Yamin (YOU ROCK, CLAUDETTE!), the winner of American Idol 2006 was crowned. Who won American Idol 2006? Did Taylor Hicks win American Idol, or did Katharine McPhee win American Idol?

Enough long, drawn-out speeches. The winner of American Idol 2006 is the gentleman on the left. Congratulations.
The gentleman on the left. ;)

The one with some funny home videos

Funny videos of women



Funny videos of people getting scared



Funny videos of people slipping

American Idol 2006 Recap: Finals Night

I agree with Rickey: the worst Finals Night ever.

At least we can look forward to Elliot Yamin's Moody's Mood for Love and Mandisa's I'm Every Woman on this stellar compilation CD.

The one where I'm tagged Part 2

Maan tagged me. This one's titled Ten Simple Pleasures.

Instructions: Name ten of life’s simple pleasures that you like the most, then pick ten people to do the same. Try to be original and creative and not to use things that someone else has already used.

1) Playtime with Nathan and Cathy
2) Chicken Nuggets and Twister Fries
3) Singing harmonies with the Victory Fort choir
4) Writing songs for God
5) Cooking with Cathy
6) Gaining a pound then losing two
7) Marathons: Blues Clues; Go Diego Go; Golden Girls, and Friends
8) Sitting on the deck watching the clouds and imagining shapes
9) Reading a good comedic book
10) Blogging :)

Tagging: Forg Files, Reia, Not Square, Anj, Abby, Candice, Vida, Toni, Jax, and Jay.

The one where I'm tagged Part 1

Toni tags me, so here we go.

Instructions: Remove the blog in the top spot from the following list and bump everyone up one place. Then add your blog to the bottom slot, like so.

1) Seeking Solace
2) Kiss My Mike
3) Micerridwen
4) Wifely Steps
5) Superblessed

Next select five people to tag:

1) Arthur
2) Noelle
3) Jay
4) Candice
5) Abby

And now the questions…

What were you doing 10 years ago?
I was a college junior, singing with an R&B group and struggling through Literary Criticism.

What were you doing 1 year ago?
According to my blog, I won a Valentine's blowout for Cathy from the Philippine Daily Inquirer's 2BU.

Five snacks you enjoy:
1) Sour Cream and Cheddar Ruffles
2) Jack n' Jill Tostillas
3) Sugarhouse Turtle Pie
4) Mr. Chips
5) Tazza's Madeleine [this is spectacular! You should try this!]

Five songs to which you know all the lyrics:
1) Hold On by Wilson Phillips
2) Galileo by Indigo Girls
3) The Glory by Avalon
4) Walking on Broken Glass by Annie Lennox
5) Tea and Sympathy by Jars of Clay

Five things you would do if you were a millionaire:
1) Give at least 10% to the church
2) Start a scholarship fund
3) Take Cathy on a trip to Paris (the Louvre!)
4) Go to Egypt to see the mummies (hey, it's my money!)
5) Go on a dinosaur excavation (hey, it's my money!)

Five bad habits:
1) Sugar after every meal
2) Displaced aggression
3) Multitasking (I think this can be a bad habit if not at the right place and time)
4) I can't stop talking!
5) Procrastination.

Five things you like doing:
1) Blogging.
2) Cooking with Cathy
3) Playing with Nathan
4) Writing songs
5) Reading books

Five things you would never wear again:
1) Basketball jerseys with fishnet sides
2) Mousse
3) White socks under black pants
4) Boxers in public (Don't ask.)
5) Leather jackets (It's just not me.)

Five favorite toys:
1) My PC
2) My keyboard
3) Lego
4) Those plastic kitchens where you pretend to cook
5) He-Man!!

The one with Martina Hingis' first 2006 title

Whee! Martina Hingis wins the Italian Open!

The one with the Katherine McPhee video of Somewhere Over the Rainbow

Looking for the video of Katherine McPhee's Somewhere Over the Rainbow? Look no further.



Tada! The video of Katharine McPhee's Somewhere Over the Rainbow.

The one wondering whether Elliot Yamin's mother has cancer

A discussion on BreastCancer.org has some people hinting at Claudette Yamin, the mother of American Idol 3rd placer Elliot Yamin, having cancer. While some say the elderly Yamin's hair, reference to hospital visits, and general countenance, all point to Mrs. Yamin's fighting the dreaded disease, it has not been confirmed by either American Idol or Yamin's camp and family.

Cathy said Yamin's lackluster performance on last night's American Idol clearly indicated something was up. "Something must have happened this past week," she said, defending her favorite finalist.

"Yeah," I agreed, "the passion he had last night doesn't seem to be there this week."

Is it perhaps because Elliot's mom is fighting cancer? Regardless, he did a wonderful job, he made his mother proud, and he deserves a long and storied career. If Elliot's mom indeed does have cancer, he knows he can rely on his millions of new friends to flood heaven with prayer.

Update: I've gotten some hits from Elliot fansites, claiming that Superblessed is spreading rumors about Claudette Yamin having cancer. Let me say for the record that this is absolutely not my intention nor my goal. We've been Elliot fans from the beginning and this post was written, if anything, to encourage people to pray for Claudette Yamin's health - regardless of its cause - and to praise her for being a wonderful mother to one of American Idol's greatest vocalists.

American Idol 5: The Top 3

Welcome to American Idol's Top 3 night! With Taylor Hicks, Katharine McPhee, and Elliot Yamin jockeying for positions in the Top 2, we're looking at an exciting race to the finish! Here's a recap of the music, and Superblessed's thoughts on who'll duke it out in the Final Two of American Idol!

TAYLOR HICKS
Taylor Hicks' Songs: Dancing in the Dark, You Are So Beautiful and Try a Little Tenderness

Dancing in the Dark
Just like last week, Taylor Hicks opens the show, this time with the Bruce Springsteen chestbut Dancing in the Dark. I never liked this Dancing in the Dark, and even with the horns blaring in the background, Taylor and Springsteen just do not go together. The crowd loves the Hicks version of Dancing in the Dark, though, and Hicks' vocals are spot-on, not a single note out of place, so score points for Taylor Hicks on this one.
Song Choice: C
Vocal: B+

You Are So Beautiful
Joe Cocker's You Are So Beautiful receives the Hicks treatment, and Taylor Hicks' version of You Are So Beautiful is poignant and moving. I've heard many versions of You Are So Beautiful though, so I can't say that he brings anything new to the song. You Are So Beautiful does suit his voice and his vocals are almost impeccable, save for a flat "hoo" somewhere in the middle of You Are So Beautiful. I hate to admit it, but Taylor seems to have this competition sewn up.
Song Choice: A
Vocal: B+

Try a Little Tenderness
Otis Redding and Taylor Hicks. Who would've guessed? Taylor sings Otis Redding's Try a Little Tenderness, and knocks it out of the ballpark with his trademark shaking and what have you. An up-to-par vocal does not hurt Hicks' case, and unfortunately, or fortunately, depending on who you support, Hicks seems to have booked his place in the finals with Hicks' version of Try a Little Tenderness. Again, props for this song choice.
Song Choice: B+
Vocal: B+

Overall Performance: B+

ELLIOT YAMIN
Elliot Yamin' Songs: Open Arms, What You Won't Do For Love and I Believe To My Soul

Open Arms
Ugh. Elliot won a karaoke contest a few years back, and the choice of Open Arms is the ultimate in shmaltzy karaoke. I'm sorry, Elliot, that was Open Arms a good choice, not matter how much good you sound. Given that, forgetting your lyrics is criminal! This song does nothing for Elliot: the trademark vibrato only goes flat in several places, and his emotion-driven delivery plunges into oblivion after he forgets the chorus. Tsk. Elliot's nerves seem to be getting the better of him.
Song Choice: C
Vocal: B

What You Won't Do For Love
I thought, "ooh, good choice, Paula." I wanted so desperately for Elliot to knock this out of the ballpark. Elliot's version was - eh. Yamin tries every ad lib and vocal twist in the book, falling flat in the improvs, going sharp in places (sharp! I thought that was only Mandisa territory). The instrumentation wasn't particularly good, though, and the lack of excitement and passion that characterized last week's performance sealed Yamin's fate.
Song Choice: A
Vocal: B-

I Believe to My Soul
If you think Elliot Yamin is going to stand by and watch helplessly as Taylor Hicks take on Otis Redding, you've got another thought coming. Elliot takes on - bravely - Ray Charles! Yamin's version of I Believe to My Soul is amusing and spirited, although I question the suitability of Yamin's voice to Charles' I Believe to My Soul. He definitely brings more soul into this track than he does to the other two, but will he make it?
Song Choice: B+
Vocal: B

Overall Performance: B-

KATHARINE MCPHEE
Katharine McPhee's Songs: I Believe I Can Fly, Over the Rainbow and I Believe To My Soul

I Believe I Can Fly
Ban R. Kelly songs from American Idol! With Katharine McPhee's version of I Believe I Can Fly, that makes 0 for 2 for Idol finalists who've taken on R. Kelly and done nothing with the song (remember Anwar Robinson's icky shmaltzy version of this track? Ugh.). Trying to give I Believe I Can Fly that diva take does not work for Catherine McPhee, and her high cat-pitched caterwaul just flies - no, scratches its claws - I Believe I Can Fly. Who do you think you are, Miss Thang? You ain't no Yolanda Adams.
Song Choice: C
Vocal: C

Somewhere Over the Rainbow
Simon recommended Somewhere Over the Rainbow for one of the finalists in the British version of American Idol, and well, it looks like he was setting Katherine for a great performance. Was it? Well, that a capella intro was stunning. It's amazing how good Katherine McPhee can sound if she does not try to belt. Somewhere Over the Rainbow was stunning. Very good.
Song Choice: A
Vocal: B+

I've Got Nothing But the Blues
Ella Fitzgerald's I've Got Nothing But the Blues receives the Katharine McPhee treatment, and she ain't no Mandisa. While vocally, it's more than adequate, McPhee's I've Got Nothing But the Blues tries too much (just like Elliot's ), coming across more like a cheap version of Lady Ella . Sheesh, find your own spirit, McPhee.
Song Choice: B
Vocal: C

Overall Performance: C+

Ganns' Rankings: Taylor, Elliot, Katharine, with McPhee getting the boot
Ganns' Prediction: Look to a bottom two between Yamin and McPhee, with McPhee narrowly escaping the boot, resulting in an uproar of indignance and the most lopsided final in the history of American Idol


SPOILER
It's official. I finally got one prediction right. Who got voted out on American Idol? Elliot Yamin. Elliot is eliminated, Elliot is out. Who got eliminated on American Idol? Elliot Yamin. Booo.

The one where Avalon upsets me

It says "To read more, visit the "Members Only" section." WTHeck?

Okay, I was an Avalon fan. Have been since 2002. Got all the albums, ordered the DVD, the signed CDs, would order T-shirts if the peso-dollar exchange rate were a lot more favorable. I have all their albums save two (Maze of Grace wasn't locally available, and Testify To Love: the Very Best is irrelevant because I have all the albums plus Everything To Me and New Day). Heck, their signed CD covers are framed on my desk at work!

So what's going on with Avalon? First, Love Won't Leave You, a great Greg Long-led carrier single track, but when Jody and Janna are proven hitmakers, it's just meh. Then a mediocre album (second in a row!). Now the decision to make AvalonLive and AvalonFanClan.com paid membership websites, therefore cutting us poor people without dollars from the source?! We can't even get access to news anymore! Hello?!

Now, a new digital single will be available in a few weeks, according to their email newsletter, but, of course, we in the Philippines cannot download from any of the US sites (even if we have US$0.99!) because paid downloads only work for the United States.

Come, Jody, Janna, Greg, and Melissa. You're making it so darn hard for a fan! Considering MercyMe is actually looking for friends on their MySpace page, you'd think information on your favorite musicians would be easier to find, not harder.

The one with Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day to all mom's out there. You ladies rock our worlds.

Cathy, sweetheart, you're the best mother out there. Nathan and I are so lucky.

Mom, you'll never read this, but thank you for everything.

Nanay, you'll never read this too, but thank YOU for taking care of my Mom.

Dad, say "Hi" to Lola Conching for me.

The one with Baygon cockroach chalk

This is going to be a gross post, but I have to tell you all about Baygon cockroach chalk. I knew we had cockroaches in our kitchen, but I wasn't sure how many. So I buy a stick of Baygon cockroach chalk, and ask Nathan's nanny to, you know, Baygon cockroach chalk the door edges of our bathroom and kitchen floor to kill those awful pests.

Did I mention by the way that I am deathly terrified of roaches?

The next morning, I awoke to a bathroom filled with the bodies of 14 roaches. Wow. How's that for a testimonial for Baygon cockroach chalk?

The one with Cathy's cooking prowess

One of the greatest things about Cathy is that she loves to cook. It's a perfect partnership because I love to eat. :D Lately, we've been fooling around with our oven and a copy of Nigella Lawson's How to Be a Domestic Goddess, and Cathy is certainly living up to her reputation with me as an amazing cook and woman.

Over the weekend, Cathy made amazing dishes. She baked these dreamy carrot and cream cheese mini-cakes, which were moist and not-too-sweet, as well as delicious green peppers stuffed with creamy chicken. The winner, however, is her steamed asparagus with ham and cheese. Oh, heaven! I love my wife!

American Idol Recap: Elvis Night

Welcome to American Idol's Elvis night, where The King (or at least his music) comes back to haunt us for a brief night. Here's a recap of the music that transpired under the “master hand” of producer, and Superblessed's thoughts on who's coming back to haunt us for another night of American Idol.

TAYLOR HICKS
Taylor Hicks' Song Choices: Jailhouse Rock and In the Ghetto

Jailhouse Rock
Taylor opened the show with his version of Elvis' rock stomper, and unfortunately for Hicks, Jailhouse Rock is one of those iconic songs that no one is ever going to bring anything real to, in this day and age. Hicks does nothing for the song, and as Simon would put it, it's one of those wedding karaoke songs. You're never going to win critical acclaim for taking on Jailhouse Rock. However, Jailhouse Rock is one of the crowd pleasers that will undoubtedly win Hicks millions of votes. Judges and critics may scoff, but hey, Hicks is doing something right, right? Right.
Song Choice: D
Vocal: B

In the Ghetto
Hicks delivers well on his version of In the Ghetto. Going back to the soul for which he is known, Hicks delivers a heartfelt turn on In the Ghetto, showing a touch of emotion otherwise unseen in previous performances. Props for this song choice.
Song Choice: B+
Vocal: B+

Overall Performance: C+

ELLIOT YAMIN
Elliot Yamin' Song Choices: If I Can Dream and Trouble

If I Can Dream
Elliot's choice of If I Can Dream, a somewhat mediocre chestnut from the Presley catalog that dreams of peace and happy let's-get-along's, is a perplexing selection. While certainly a vocally challenging track that allows Yamin to show off his trademark vibrato and his emotion-driven delivery, If I Can Dream also highlights Yamin's weaknesses, which are a shaky high register and a pitchy low one. Ultimately, a somewhat unforgettable version of a forgettable song.
Song Choice: C+
Vocal: B+

Trouble
If Elliot Yamin were looking for trouble, he certainly wasn't courting it with this version of Trouble. Markedly different from versions of both Presley's and earlier Idol champion Carrie Underwood, Elliot delivers a spunky, if somewhat desperate, turn on this rock and roll pleaser. Yamin's Trouble is both gutsy and indignant, with several vocal turns to please even the most discriminating Elvis critic. Sizzling.
Song Choice: B+
Vocal: A

Overall Performance: B+

CHRIS DAUGHTRY
Chris Daughtry's Song Choices: Suspicious Minds and A Little Less Conversation

Suspicious Minds
Chris Daughtry brings it on Suspicious Minds, putting his odd vibrato and rock-solid baritone to best use with Presley's #1 track. I'm actually pleased by this version, and the selection of Suspicious Minds shows that Daughtry's willing to go out on a limb every so often, and this is definitely not in his comfort zone. Brave, and he wins points for that.
Song Choice: A
Vocal: B

A Little Less Conversation
I'm sorry, but whenever I hear A Little Less Conversation, I think Jon Peter Lewis. LOL Seriously, not a bad version, but Daughtry brings nothing new to A Little Less Conversation. It's actually how eerie Daughtry sounds like The King, save for the last part of A Little Less Conversation where he screams twice, inexplicably, adding his own muddled, messed-up signature to A Little Less Conversation. In the world of American Idol, that amounts to one thing: karaoke. Ick.
Song Choice: C+
Vocal: C+

Overall Performance: B

KATHARINE MCPHEE
Hound Dog/All Shook Up
When selecting from the Presley catalog, here's rule #2, Katharrine: don't pick Hound Dog. Whoops, too late. Katherine McPhee's version of Hound Dog/All Shook Up , while clever for its recall amongst voters, is simply too much for her, and it shows. McPhee runs out of steam halfway through the steam, and Katherine's vocal becomes pitchy and screechy. It's like McPhee pants perennially (kinda like a hound dog), and while it was pleasant watching her, she came across as a performer on some beauty pageant. Tsk.
Song Choice: C+
Vocal: C+

Can't Help Falling in Love
I was telling Cathy this morning, “please, Caths, don't tell me someone will pick this one.” Why? Rule #1? Don't do Can't Help Falling in Love. It's overdone, overused, and overrated. Unfortunately, McPhee's version of Can't Help Falling in Love does absolutely nothing for the song, except drag it down to the annals of mediocrity. McPhee may be hot, but she's no diva, and she flubs this one. Bad. I can't help feeling bad for her.
Song Choice: D
Vocal: C

Overall Performance: C

Ganns' Rankings: Elliot, Chris, Taylor, and Katharine, with McPhee getting the boot
Ganns' Prediction: Look to a bottom two between McPhee and Daughtry, with McPhee the most likely to get voted off

SPOILER
Who got voted off American Idol? Chris Daughtry! Gosh!

The one with Philippine Idol Updates

I'm not one to plug, but look! Philippine Idol Updates! Informative, updated daily, and pretty in blue! Philippine Idol Updates claims it's the one-stop shop for Philippine Idol news, Philippine Idol reviews, and Philippine Idol information, pretty much everything you'll want to know about Philippine Idol, airing soon on ABC-5! Looking for news on Philippine Idol? Look no further! It's all there on Philippine Idol Updates!

The one with Philippine Idol

It looks like Philippine Idol's all set to blast off. I won't lie; I was very excited for Philippine Idol, and I was dying to audition for the Philippine Idol show, but it looks like I'm not going to even get a chance. Apparently you need to be 28 years old or younger to be part of Philippine Idol. American Idol's age limit is 30, but for Philippine Idol, it's 28. Bummer.

What are the odds I'd win Philippine Idol? Disgustingly small, infinitessimal, in fact. But the very essence of American Idol (and for that matter, Philippine Idol) is to live that dream to make music. I never got that chance, and Toti Wong will never get that chance, nor Julius Guevara, nor Art Diaz, nor Aan, nor a bunch of other great singers just because we missed the age cut. Sayang.

I will still watch Philippine Idol, though, and you can expect Superblessed to be one of the great sources of information for Philippine Idol. :) Just because I can't be on Philippine Idol doesn't mean I won't support Philippine Idol. Hopefully, the winner of Philippine Idol won't necessarily be some diva with a high voice - the world could use less screaming and more substance and style. Just my two cents.

The one with the Wilson Phillips "You're in Love" video

Fifteen years ago, You're in Love by Wilson Phillips topped the US charts. It was their last #1 hit. Here's the video of You're in Love from Wilson Phillips.

The one with the Katherine McPhee video of Big Black Horse in a Cherry Tree

Here's a video of Katharine McPhee singing Big Black Horse in a Cherry Tree by KT Tunstall. Her best performance, in my opinion. This Big Black Horse in a Cherry Tree video by Katherine McPhee video was recorded from a television, so don't expect topnotch sound and image quality.

The one with the American Idol Spoiler for the week of May 1-5, 2006

It saddens me.













Paris Bennett is gone. :(

The one with the conversation with Dan Johnson

Hello, everyone!

I apologize for the delay in this podcast. Come and listen to my thoughts on:

* A conversation with Journey Inside My Mind's Dan Johnson
* American Idol's remaining five finalists
* Pinoy Big Brother
* Zimbabwe

Title: The one with a conversation with Dan Johnson
Length: 14:23
Format: WAV file
Download here or visit Ganns' Ourmedia page.

The one with the four Betty and Veronica tees from Kamiseta

Kamiseta, a popular Philippine boutique, seems to have lined up another ace up its fashionable sleeve. A huge Kamiseta billboard on EDSA (near Guadalupe, alongside the Pasig River) features Betty and Veronica of the hugely popular Archie Comics with the tagline "Are you a Betty or a Veronica?"

The official Kamiseta website now displays four designs:

Kamiseta Betty

Kamiseta Veronica

Kamiseta Jughead Shake

Kamiseta Jughead Burger

I'm a little disappointed. These Kamiseta designs look very generic and not very attractive. And some questions do tend to arise? If this is a Betty and Veronica campaign for Kamiseta, why are there two Jughead designs (both, strangely enough, with beads and rhinestones)? Why does Betty - the simple poor girl - get the rhinestone top and Veronica, the rich girl, no beads or rhinestones at all?

I'm no fashion expert, but I'm a comic book junkie, and this is not how I envisioned the Kamiseta campaign. It's a bit of a letdown. What do you think?

The one with Nathan's sweet greeting

Last night, coming home from work, I took off my shoes in the living room while Cathy went upstairs to greet Nathan before he went to bed. I then heard Nathan say:

"Daddy, way ah yoo?"

My heart just melted! That was the first time he's said that!