#MusicMonday Worth Standing For

To be honest most music now a days is either sex, hating or just full on partying. Not to many bands stand for anything any more. I try to find the ones that do and share them. But, sometimes it is easier to go back in time to find someone who really cared and wasn't afraid to say so.

This week for Music Monday we go back to the year 1995 when so many bands I listened to had no problem stepping up and telling it like it is. Here is a song that fits right in and seemed to stick in my head for weeks at a time.

Carnival By: Natalie Merchant

What band sticks in your mind and really gets you thinking?

#MusicMonday for One of My Favorite Characters

Today's Music Monday goes out to one of my favorite fictional characters of all time, a kick ass heroine who makes the phrase girl power sound like a game for girl scouts. A teen age PI who doesn't take crap from anyone, whose middle name should be justice, a girl who looks out for the underdog and makes you just love her spunky attitude. Who is she? The main character of an old show called Veronica Mars and guess what? She is coming back. With the help from the show's many fans, the producer and actors have raised the money to make a Veronica Mars movie and I can't wait to catch it in 2014.

  Any of my readers also Veronica Mars fans? If not you should serious catch a rerun or two. Kristen Bell as Veronica Mars kicks some serious butt and one of the all time best role models for women. So for Kristen for helping raising the money for the movie and her character Veronica, here is the theme song for the show. Its a song I keep on my MP3 player that always makes me think of the show.

We Used to Be Friends By: The Dandy Warhols

  And if you are interested in the Veronica Mars movie, here is the teaser that just appeared over the wekend at the San Diego Comic-Con.

First look: Veronica Mars movie

Thoughtful Thursday with an Odd Re-Visit

I'd like to welcome back fellow writer Diantha Jones. Her tour stopped off here during her tour for Book 2 of her Oracle of Delphi series. Now Book 3, Prophecy of Solstice's End is out and she is stopping back on tour again to share this newest work with us with a guest blog and some great info on how to grab your copy. Not to mention a fantastic giveaway.

Now on to her guest post!

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Outlines: So Annoying, Irritatingly Helpful By: Diantha Jones

So for the first two Oracle of Delphi books, Prophecy of the Most Beautiful and Prophecy of the Setting Sunrise, I didn't outline anything. I just wrote what came to my mind and it was easy to keep it all in order. Then came book three, Prophecy of Solstice's End, and I couldn't keep a single plot line straight. I don't know what happened, but I was all over the place.

My editor (Mia) suggested I do an outline. At first, I was like NOPE. I hated outlines. They were annoying and too much work. But as my deadline drew closer, I knew I needed to do something or risk ending up with a very screwed up book. So I buckled down and did the stupid outline.

Best decision I ever made.

First thing I did was outline what I had already written, then I added what I knew I wanted to happen. The truly annoying part came when I started rearranging my outline. But I had to go along with the flow of the emerging story, you know? Not every chapter I outlined made it into the book. Once I realized the book was stronger without a certain chapter or POV, I eliminated it. The outline definitely helped me to look ahead and see what would work for me and what wouldn't. With so many story lines, narrators and points of view to keep straight, the outline was invaluable. Honestly, if I hadn't done one, I would've been so screwed.

I've already begun outlining the fourth book, Prophecy of the Betrayed Heir, and I see a great story being laid out in front of me. A lot of work too, but it's all worth it. I now recommend outlines to all authors as I will most definitely outline every book I write from here on out.

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Here is the code for the giveaways. There are two and they both start Monday, July 15th and end the third week in August.

Oracle of Delphi Giveaway

Prizes are listed

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Prophecy of the Author's Genius Contest
Solve the prophecy, win a $25 Amazon Giftcard (must guess the classic book title and author)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Description of Prophecy of Solstice's End- Courtesy of Barnes and Nobel-

Overview

Summer Solstice is here. Let the games begin.

Nothing but lies (some of them her own) and deceit have brought Chloe to Olympus for the Solstice Olympic Games. As the Oracle and the special guest of the King of Myth, Chloe becomes immersed in a life of unfathomable luxury, taunting history, and overwhelming excitement. Though scheming and untrustworthy, the gods remain on their best behavior as the tension and anticipation builds around the outcome of the Quest of the Twelve Labors, the deadliest competition of the Games. All seems well on the celestial front...until athletes start turning up dead and a philosopher missing for months returns with a most terrifying story...

But that’s not all.

As Strafford confronts his troubled past and more is learned about the Great Unknown Prophecy, Chloe grows close to another, setting off a chain of events that will bring her face-to-face with a truth that will rock both of her worlds to their core.

And it’ll all happen before Solstice’s end...

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To grab your copy of Prophecy of Solstice's End, check out these great links.

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/prophecy-of-solstices-end-diantha-jones/1116050182?ean=2940148440819

Amazon: http://amzn.com/B00DXO6IZ6

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I hope you all grab a copy and get to experience the work of one fantastic writer and wonderful person. Thanks for stopping by Dinatha and I hope the rest of the tour is fantastic for you.

#MusicMonday From Russia With Love

  I couldn't help, but use the James Bond reference. It just naturally came out as I typed. This week I thought I would share a song for my Russian readers. Doing some research I came across the Russian band Dima Bilan, who I am told is really popular there in Russian. With a lovely voice and an instant spark of attraction we see a scene unfold of a silly, happy stroll.

I wasn't able to find a translation for the name of this song. Any of my Russian readers want to comment and tell us what, 'Nevozmozhnoe Vozmozhno' means? And is this a popular band or would you suggest someone else?

For everyone else, watch the video and tell us what do you think of this popular Russian band? I really like the feel of this song. The flirting is too cute and what a naughty boy is that one!


Nevomozhnoe Vozmozhno By: Duma Bilan

Snippet Sunday- A Nasty Confirmation Or...?

When a girl meets the man of her dreams she smiles unconscionably, thinks of him randomly and dreams of him from time to time. But, what happens if he wants someone else, even in your own dreams? This weeks snippet is a piece of a scene from my favorite of all my books, Zogone book #1- Old Dreams. What does Arlene get after meeting Brian? Memories? More questions? Confusion? Maybe even a little self awareness she never would have imagined.

    From Old Dreams-


  Her knees grew weak as he pulled her closer, wrapping his arms firmly around her until their bodies touched from their chests down to their knees.

  His lips continued to brush tantalizingly over hers as he spoke. “I’m so glad you chose to stay with me. I love you Colleen.”

  Arlene pulled back sharply, placing a hand firmly on his chest as she looked up at him in confusion. “I’m Arlene, remember? Whose Colleen, Brian?” She grabbed his arm and softly shook him. “Whose Colleen?”

  Brian pulled her back into his arms with a sweet smile and whispered, “My wife."

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Want to read the full excerpt or grab a copy of the beginning of the Zogone Saga for yourself. Go - HERE! 

#MusicMonday With Something Unexpected

  Personally I love Pink, the singer not the color. But, I never would have expected her to work with someone like Nate Ruess the lead singer of Fun. Both are great artist, but together they are pretty spectacular. What do you think of their duet?

Just Give Me a Reason By: P!NK ft. Nate Ruess

I've shared this video before, but I'll add it here so you can do a review of just who Nate Reuss is.

We Are Young By: Fun ft. Janelle Monae

And of course everyone knows Pink for one reason or another. My favorite of her was the old days. Like in this video. I just happen to love this one.

Just Like A Pill By: P!NK

Hump Day Hunks for America's Heroes

  Tomorrow is the 4th of July and a national holiday in my country. It is the anniversary of the day the United States became an independent nation, so appropriately named Independence Day. So, I'll share an excerpt from my favorite American Hero character, Sam from the Zogone sagas and hero of Past Regrets.

                                         
     From Past Regrets-

  Sam curled up in a borrowed bunk in one of the guest quarters, with his hands crossed under his head and his long legs stretched out to where they crossed at the ankles. For the last hour, since he had plopped down on the bunk his thoughts had led him a merry chase, forcing him to stare at the wall as if lost in space.

  Not only had Ginger paid him the least bit of recognition when he entered Daimlar’s office, but she had gotten the heck out of Dodge the second she was able to. Instead of being offended by Ginger’s actions, they had given Sam hope.

  If Ginger had shaken his hand and acted like an old acquaintance, he would have been worried, but no, not his Ginger! No, Ginger acted as if he didn't exist, then when she was forced to face up to knowing him, she ignored him. Then she had excused herself formally without directly communicating with him.

  Obviously Ginger was totally pissed off to find out he was going to be her partner for this mission. People who didn't care didn't get pissed. Girls who still had feelings for a man, definitely did get more than a little upset. That had to mean Ginger still felt something for him. Something was better than nothing.

  Four years ago, Sam had blamed himself for all the world’s problems just because of his own violent birth. It took four hard, lonely years for him to realize he had always helped more than he had harmed the world.

  It also took those same four years for him to realize what a damn fool he had been to walk away from the one woman who had ever looked at him as more than a monster. She had looked at him like a man, one she cared about—and he had lost her, because of stupid pride.

  When Josh had told him about this mission, Sam jumped at the chance to be the appointed Warrior Delegate. Josh had even worked it to look like the Delegates had come to him, forcing him to prove himself, when everyone there knew he had nothing to prove. Every Delegate that knew him, knew they could count on him in any situation. Sam had busted his butt to gain the Delegates’ respect and his position among them.

  Screw the military, Sam had volunteered for this mission for one reason, to use the time alone with Ginger to win her back.

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Want to read more or grab your own copy of Past Regrets? Go - HERE!

#MusicMonday for the Naughty British- 18+

 This week I thought I would share my favorite British songs. Not only does 'Smile' make you do just that, it also makes you laugh, groan and go, "Ouch better you than me buddy."  I'm sure you have heard the phrase, 'Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.' Here is a great example of that. Lilly Allen's character in this MV was cheated on and left behind by the man she loves and now its time to get even and she does it so well. Girl has spunk and a lot of crazy madness a number of women would envy.  Watch it and see if you don't smile too. Tell me what you think. Does she go to far or does he completely deserve everything she's giving him and more?

Smile By: Lilly Allen

#MusicMonday for my Ukraine Readers-

  I've noticed I have had quite a few visits from readers in Ukraine. So today to thank them, Music Monday is for them. Doing some research I came across a band that formed in 1994 and is said to be a hugely popular band in Ukraine, known as the best-loved rock band in Ukraine. They are called Okean Elzy or (Океан Ельзи, translation: Elza's Ocean) and you can find out more info on them- HERE!

Have a listen and tell me what you think- Let Me Go By: Okean Elzy

  So, to all my Ukraine readers, is this band really that popular? Do you know a band you like more and would love to recommend it to us? Then leave me a comment or even a link to another video I missed on Youtube.  I love learning about different music and all the readers that stop by appreciate learning about it too. So, share a little of your culture with us. And thanks to everyone for taking the time to read my blog!

Snippet Sunday for the Sinfully Tempting

  To be different I thought I would share a snippet from my book Talkers and what could be more tempting than a rock star, especially one who goes out of his way to get the girl's attention.

                                                    From Talkers-

  Ritter was their singer and leader of the band, so he had to stand out even more than his friends. He wore tight, red leather pants and a skin tight silk shirt that was black, but sparkled like it was covered in glitter. His mid-back length black hair with the occasional added blond strand, fell around his pale face, which was now bright and sparkly from his stage makeup.

  With his back to her, Ritter knelt down in a crouch, popping up and down a few times apparently to test the limits of his pants. It was better to check them now and waylay any wardrobe accidents that may come up on stage. Every time Ritter knelt down, Shayle's eyes followed the motion as the butter soft leather stretched across his tiny perfect bottom, inviting her to look and her mouth to water.

  To grab your copy of Talkers, check out my other books and read free excerpts for all of them, go to-http://store.newconceptspublishing.com/debra-a.-soles/

Music Monday With a French Special

  When it comes to music and entertainment of all kinds, everyone knows I have no problem expanding my horizon. From German rock bands to Japanese anime and Korean dramas, I tend to cover the world with my interests.  But, after walking past a local French fisher men a number of times over the last few weeks and getting, "Bonjor Madam," I realized I don't have a favorite French anything unless you count the character Belle from Disney's Beauty and the Beast. So, I figured it was time to peep around into the world of French music.

  Here is the first French band I came across that seemed really interesting, though to me it has some what of a Latin feel. Is that just me? What do you think?

Parce qu'o vient de loin By: Corneille

"Parce qu'on vient de loin" Which in French means because we come from afar. And yes, I did take a little high school French, but I couldn't translate that one on my own. The song is lovely though.

Snippet Sunday Happy Father's Day Even for Fictional Fathers

  In my Zogone series there are two Japanese siblings Tamayama and Megumi Yazawa. This Sunday my snippet is dedicated to their father. As a young husband and father, Mr. Yazawa came across a really bad time. His wife went to pick up their 5-year-old daughter Megumi from class one night and was attacked, raped and brutally beaten by an evil vampire. From that night came a son, a sick wife and his sweet daughter who having seen the violence slowly began to change.

  Despite everything all Mr. Yazawa wanted was his family to be happy and healthy, even if that meant giving his children to an alien race as they were the only ones left that could save their family.  So, for Mr. Yazawa here is a snippet from Zogone book 3- Ancient Enemies that shows the true devotion of a father.

From Ancient Enemies-

  Mr. Yazawa was a kind man in his late fifties. Dark hair barely touched with silver, dark complexion and a medium height, typical of Japanese people. He wasn't plain, but at the same time not overly beautiful either. Sitting across from each other, Jade could tell Tama and Mr. Yazawa weren't related by blood. It was also evident that Mr. Yazawa couldn't love Tama more even if he were really his flesh and blood. To him Tama was his helpless child and he the concerned parent who deeply ached from the feeling of failure from not being able to help his child.

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Want to read some free excerpts or even grab your own copy of the book go- Here

Anciuent Enemies is on sale right now for- $1.99. Run, go, check it out and Happy Father's Day everyone!

Tunes Tuesday With a Fantastic Find

  Usually I do Music Monday, but from time to time I mix it up a bit. By now I should know that when the lap top asks to do an update, I should ignore it. So, yesterday after a needed update my browsers kept crashing and it took hours to get them back up and running properly.

  On the up side, the extra day gave me the time to come across a fantastic find music wise. Everyone who knows me, knows I love all types of music. That includes really rocking orchestras like the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, specifically their Mad Russian Christmas. My favorite would have to be Apocalyptica, who does kick ass covers of bands like Metallica and Nirvana. I believe I actually shared one of their videos a while back, an original song called I Don't Care with the help of Adam Gontier, lead singer of Three Days Grace.

  Well this morning, I came across a surprising orchestra version from a korean band I've really started to love, JYJ who I've mentioned before a number of times. This is a cover of their song Get Out remade by the
Nanyang Polytechnic Chinese Orchestra. Listen to the original version, then the remake and see what you think. I personally think they did a fantastic job and deserve a round of applause. What do you think?

Get Out By: JYJ with English subs

Get Out Remake By: Nanyang Polytechnic Chinese Orchestra

Hump Day Hunks with a Pirate who Never Takes No for an Answer-

  When you think of pirates do you think of evil, scary, pillagers or something a little bit sexier? For me, I always think about Captain Nero Lorgan.

From One Wish-

  It seemed simple enough to Nero. Melanie was his wife and he wanted her, only her.

Sure, so maybe this wasn’t the best time or place, but he wanted her and couldn’t change that

fact any more than he could throw her back to the time she had came from, the time and place

where she thought she belonged. But she did not belong in 2010, she belonged here, now, with

him.

  Was he going to sit here waiting for her to tell him no or was he going to prove to her that

she belonged with him? She wants me, that much I do know. No woman could kiss a man like

that or hold a man the way she does, if she didn’t at least want him. Hell, she might even like me

and one day learn to love me. Am I really willing to waste this chance or should I do what I

know is right and go after what I want?

  Before the desire he knew she felt could wholly dissipate, he crawled across the floor

toward her. With the slightest force he pushed her backward to lie on the plank flooring. His

lips silenced her protests.

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 To read more excerpts or grab your copy of One Wish... Go Here

#MusicMonday for Surprising Early Summer Weather-

  All weekend the weather here in New England has been nuts, upper 80's and even 90's and humid as all get out. If I didn't know better I could have sworn I was back in the South. Today on the other hand, though there is a possibility it will hit the upper 70's, its raining its butt off. My usual morning walk was accompanied by a number of shocked stares and shaken heads. And it makes me wonder how many of the people who drove by me, splashing me with water were wondering if I had lost my mind or if I just didn't have enough sense to get out of the rain. (Shrug) Water ain't never hurt no one other than the wicked witch of the west, so I'll survive a little soaking.

  Oh course that doesn't mean I wouldn't like the blissful sun of the weekend back. So today's Music Monday will be the perfect song to bring back the sun and keep me smiling despite the rain.

Cruise By: Florida Georgia Line

  And as a matter of fact, I just noticed they had done a new remix of this song with Nelly. Hum... This is his second country song. Do you think he is a fan?

Cruise Remix By: Florida Georgia Line

  I also noticed something interesting in this video. The blond model 54 seconds into the remix video. We have seen her before. A while back I shared a video called Uncommitted by Xia Junsu. She is the main female in that video. Can you recognize her in both?

Uncommitted By: Xia Junsu of JYJ

Snippet Sunday With Some Brotherly Love

  In my book His Kiss my hero makes a mistake with his best friend Amber that could end up costing them their friendship. To make matters worse as he starts to have feelings for her another man pops in to steal her, his older brother Jonas. Today's snippet shows a small taste of how Taylor feels after seeing his brother flirt with Amber.

From His Kiss-
  Taylor dragged Jonas out into the street and shoved him against his own work truck. "Look there are a million girls in the world, can't you just go find one of them and leave my Amber alone?"

  "Your Amber? I don't see a ring on her finger baby brother." Jonas grinned snottily.

  "Don't screw with me Jonas. You have messed around with every girlfriend I have ever had except for Janet."

  "That's cause Janet may be small, but she's one big bitch bro."

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To read the rest of this excerpt and buy a copy of the book go here to- New Concepts Publishing

Have you and a sibling ever had a fight over a could be lover?

#MusicMonday With Visual Kei

 If you are a fan of anything Asian eventually you will come across the phrase Visual Kei. What is Visual Kei? It is simple and yet so complex. In Japan in the music scene there was a movement combining everything you think of when you hear punk, grunge, big hair, glam, even rock opera. Take all of those roll them up together in the most visual extreme way and you have Visual Kei. Visual Kei is a form hardcore rockers have taken up to show their energy, love of rock and individuality in the extremest way.

  For more info on Visual Kei culture, clothes and bands here are a few links.

Wikipedia

Visual Kei dot com

  For Music Monday I am going to share a song from my favorite Japanese Visual Kei band- The Gazette, one of the wildest, crazy and some times extremest of them all.

Before I Decay By: The Gazette

What do you think of the Visual Kei movement?

#MusicMonday For Some Rocking Germans

 A new discovery has been made for me into the German Rock section. When I say I love music that is an understatement. I have a favorite band in almost every country. In Germany is one of my all time favorite bands Tokio Hotel. But, today I have discovered a new German Rock band that really is worth checking out.  This band is called Zoo Army and they rock out some really great sounds in perfect English. Here is one of their songs live.

Change By: Zoo Army

Later on their lead singer had his own solo career. Here is one of his solo songs.

Out of My Bed By: Gil Ofarim

And apparently he has also been on the German version of the TV show The Voice. I couldn't find any clips in English though. But if you are interested there are a number of clips in German on Youtube. If you are like me and can understand enough German to get by.

Hope you love my new discovery and don't forget the welcome mat is always out for any band who would like to be share. I'm more than happy to help others discover the music!

Hump Day Hunks With a Devil From the High Seas.

  I haven't talked about my book One Wish in a while, so I thought I would share an excerpt about the hero Captain Nero Lorgan A.K.A. The Devil Lorgan, whaler, merchant, pirate feared by many... All except Melanie, the young woman ripped through time.

  From One Wish-

  Nero wondered when he had changed his mind about her and decided to go ahead and marry such a strange woman. There was just something about her that was so unique and intriguing. No matter what he knew he had to find out what it was or it would follow him for the rest of his life, biting him in the butt with the unknown facts and unanswered questions.

  Obviously she was beautiful, but it wasn’t that. Her long dark waves, spanned down to her waist and her eyes were like the richest, finest chocolates. It was true that she was seriously tiny and he now understood what Georgey had meant about her needing some meat on her bones. For once he had to agree with Georgey there.

  Nevertheless, he had seen plenty of beautiful women in his life, from all over during different voyages, both close to home and far away. Throughout his travels he had seen Oriental women who were petite and perfect, Swedish women who could set the blood of any man on fire. Hell, he had even seen flirtatious Hawaiian women who left a man aching, but none were anything like Melanie.

  Nero stretched out his hand and took one of Melanie’s in his. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Lilly blink in surprise and start to fan herself at his brazenness. If the girl only knew what he thought about Melanie, she would be more than shocked. Chances were she would probably fall over into a dead faint.

  Ignoring Lilly’s disapproving stare, he redirected his attention to Melanie and asked, “How much do you actually know about me?”

  Melanie made a swiping motion with her had, indicating his person. “This... What you look like. How you talk, dress and act. I know your name and that you are some kind of sea captain.”

  Amused by her point blank statement he chuckled and she felt renewed sparks flash through her body, like being pressed into such a small space with him didn’t already have her hormones screaming. “Ok, well you sure are honest, aren’t you?”

  Giving him a half smile she lifted an eyebrow like she had seen him do earlier, “Brutally honest. Is there any better way to be?”

  Impressed he laughed, “To true. Well, let me tell you a little about myself, then you can tell me all about you. Then I guess we can take it from there.”

  Melanie nodded her understanding and listened as he started. “Well I own a whaling company and quite a few ships, one I personally command. I have a nice town house here in New Bedford, as well as my usual home, which is a nice sized plantation on Nantucket Island.”

  Melanie held her hands up to stop him and asked, “How old are you Captain?”

  “Please Melanie call me Nero and I’m thirty-one. Why do you ask?”

  Reassuringly she smiled, showing him she wanted  to understand, not ripe him apart with questions. “You are telling me facts I don’t need to know. You might as well say I make such and such a year. Like that would make me marry you?” She shook her head, “Not likely. I want to know who you are.” She tapped his chest, “In here. I do not care if you have a big fancy house or you live in a shack. I could care less if you had money coming out of your ears or you have to kill yourself every day to make a dime. I want to know who you are. Like, what is your favorite color?”

  Caressingly he ran a hand through her hair and smiled into her eyes, “Black.”

  Being herself, she laughed at him outrageously, “Black isn’t a color. Honestly, what is your favorite color?”

  Having fun with each of her reactions, he grinned, “Yesterday it was blue like the sea. But today...” He fingered one of her long dark tresses, “Today I have a sudden liking for long black hair.”

Want to read more? Grab your copy of One Wish- HERE!
You can also check out my other books- HERE!

#MusicMonday With an Open Invitation

  For Music Monday this week. I'd like to offer an invitation to any band that might read my blog or any person who is close to a band. One of my great loves in this life is music. I can't live without listening to music off and on all day every day. I love learning about new music and sharing it. So, to any band who would like to be featured on my site leave me a comment with a way to get in touch with you here find me on Face Book and drop me a comment or send me a message on Twitter. I'll add the links to the end of today's post. Can't wait to see who all is interested in being featured.

  Now for Music Monday... Today I wanted to share the newest single by my favorite Korean band. I've shared some of their songs before, but thought they could use the extra support right now. Right after Easter their lead singer, Kim Jonghyun was in a nasty car accident. He spent a few weeks in the hospital, had to have surgery and was finally released to go home. The production company made the rest of the band keep up with their activities without Jonghyun, including the filming and release of their newest single. Here is Why So Serious? for Jonghyn, wishing you a speedy recovery. The song is great, but it just isn't the same without all five SHINee boys together.

Why So Serious? By- SHINee

SHINee on Face Book- Go and support them too! 3.6 million fans can't be wrong. :)

  For the bands interested in having me feature you (any type of music, from any country), you can find me at the links below.

On Face Book

On Twitter