Happy New Year, everyone! I hope you had a lovely 2023, especially during the holiday season. It was another fun year for music. I discovered quite a few impressive new artists throughout the year. I also enjoyed covering the musical milestones and anniversaries.
Some Highlights of the Musical MilestonesApril 20, 2023, was the 30th Anniversary of Backstreet Boys’ musical career. I had so much fun writing about their music and listening to their songs. It brought back so many memories, especially going to their concert many years ago. I rediscovered their music again and started to listen to them again. I also enjoyed hearing Backstreet Boys member Nick Carter’s music as a solo artist. He had some fantastic singles, including Hurts to Love You (a tribute to his late brother Aaron Carter) and Superman.
Another musical milestone I enjoyed writing about was the 50th Anniversary of Queen’s first album on July 13, 2023. This record set the tone for the Queen phenomenon. Planning this article was so much fun – an incredible moment for me to honour the legacy of the legendary rock band.
The tribute to Johnny Cash, when it was the 20th anniversary of his passing on September 12, 2023, was touching and heartfelt. I learned so much about the artist known as the Man in Black. He had music that was interesting and bold.
One of my favourite moments in the blog in 2023 was discovering impressive new artists, including Sy’rai, Samara Joy and Stephen Sanchez. I reviewed Samara Joy’s music in February of last year. I also covered the first single by Sy’rai, On My Own, in one of my First Single Fridays articles on her birthday, June 16.
In the Summer of 2023, I saw the Barbie Movie a few weeks after its release. The soundtrack of that film was incredible – catchy music. I was on vacation when the movie came out, but I reviewed the soundtrack to celebrate the Summer season on Labour Day weekend. I enjoyed covering the music for this movie. The songs were suitable for the film.
Writing this blog is something I enjoy very much, especially discovering what some call “hidden gems” and trying to encourage them and also honour the music legends whenever possible. However, like last year, I faced the common challenge of writers, which is writer’s block. When that happens, I take a break and remind myself that Freddie Mercury, the Frontman of Queen, faced the same situation. It shows that it happens to even the most famous of artists. It was especially the case in the recent 5th edition of my annual 12 Days of Christmas. However, I didn’t give up and took my time to focus on the goal, feeling determined.
I appreciate your support over the years. I look forward to discovering more incredible music in 2024. Thank you so much. I wish you love, health and happiness for the new year.
I’ll be taking a little break and will return soon.
Happy New Year 2024!
Flora Youssef
