Happy New Year, everyone! I hope you had a pleasant 2022. It felt like a year with a sense of normalcy, such as lessening COVID-19 restrictions and being able to see family at gatherings, especially during the holiday season.
There were memorable moments in terms of music. It was touching to write about various musical milestones, such as the 30th anniversary of The Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert and The Bodyguard (the movie and the soundtrack). There were also some sad musical milestones, like the passing of Bee Gees’ Robin Gibb (10 years ago) and David Cassidy (five years ago). In 2022, we lost some music legends, such as Meat Loaf, Christine McVie, Irene Cara, Aaron Carter, etc. Those losses were difficult for the music world.
On a lighter note, the celebrations at various music awards, like in 2021, had a sense of normalcy, with audiences full of people. The hosts of each awards show did an excellent job.
The year 2022 felt like the year with the most moments of writer’s block; at least, that’s how it felt at times. I took my time and did my best. It’s essential not to put pressure on oneself.
The music in 2022 was impressive in terms of music. It was fun to hear more parodies by Chris Mann. I watched two biopics: Elvis the Movie and Weird: The Al Yankovic Story, and listened to the soundtracks of the two films. Austin Butler (Elvis) has an incredible voice, deep and bold. It was impressive to hear after seeing the Elvis movie. There was so much to cover. I also had a blast doing the annual 12 days of Christmas. I especially enjoyed hearing remarkable renditions of Christmas classics, including an instrumental Medieval-style version of Wham’s Last Christmas by Hildegard von Blingin’, a Canadian artist. I also discovered an incredible singer, Elizabeth Chan. She has a Christmas album full of original material. I especially enjoyed hearing family-style albums such as Gloria Estefan’s an Estefan Family Christmas and Andrea Bocelli’s record A Family Christmas with his children Matteo and Virginia.
The year 2022 has come to an end. I had a wonderful listening to great music. I’m excited to discover more incredible music throughout 2023. I wish you love, health and happiness for the new year.
I’m taking a little break for the time being and will be back soon.
Happy new year!
Flora Youssef
