Madonna Album 13!

To all the Madonna fans out there, I am sure that you are all scratching the wallpaper off your walls at this very moment, hoping for a huge hint or release date for Madonna's new album or lead single. After Billboard confirming the album will be in 2015, it came as quite a shock to me bearing in mind Madonna stated that she started the recording process around the time she won 3 awards at the Billboard Awards 2013. I'm sure 2013 was a difficult time particularly to finish up the live album and DVD of the MDNA Tour and the Secret Project Revolution as well as other charitable events. But what cannot be denied is that the artists that have worked with Madonna have stated they have written a tonne of songs. This puts me an uneasy mind frame because it could suggest most of the songs intended for this album might never see the light of day. After Billboard announcing that an artist will release a 'Beyonce' styled album all leads were on Adele or Madonna and we were on the edge of our seats. However, it was in fact U2 that opted to go for the surprise and negatively critiqued 'Free ICloud Download' album.


What direction could Madonna go into? She has practically covered most genres of music. Personally, I would love to see her go into dub step, rock or a hip/hop rap liberation. Rap is one of the most honest genres of music and what better way to chime the revolution of love than to experiment with a little bit of rap or spoken word.  Her current style could suggest this due to the fact she likes to wear grills and uses slang like hashtags. Having said that, I do not think she should stay clear of her disco, electronic roots because that is what captured our attention to her in the first place.

Her latin and ballad experiments have benefited Madonna's catalogue and it would be nice to add a little more culture to her future album to support the idea of international love. Music had a recurring theme of Auto-tune, techno and electronica. Whilst songs like 'Don't Tell Me' and 'Nothing Fails' were good folk and country songs it would be interesting to see her come up with something fresh. Also, a reggae album wouldn't be too much to ask for would it? ;)
One thing I crave on a future shopping list would also be a Christmas album from Madonna. This will definitely a brilliant venture as it will give Madonna the opportunity to sell even more albums and produce honest music.

These are the list of people hinted to be on the Madonna album. It would be great to hear all of them make it on one track. Madonna, through her reinvention has a Twitter Page, Spotify, Facebook, Instagram page and she loves to update people on her travels, children, studio sessions, political views. Many of the pictures and captions suggest that she is cooking something fresh in the 'album oven'.

• Diplo - seen many times in her Instagram pictures having a good time with Madonna whilst she chugs down a bottle of Rose. We are sure that he will feature on the album. He has taken her to a rave VIP club in New York where they experimented on the decks with fellow DJ Skrillex. Diplo and Skrillex will be forming a duo soon, suggesting Madonna could have a new EDM song on the way. Diplo states he's written called 'Bitch I'm Madonna' '3 amazing smashes' and over 7 songs with the Queen of Pop.
• Miley Cyrus - From the MTV Unplugged performance to the Madonna inspired photoshoot, Miley has shown an inspiration to Madonna, particularly attempting to mirror her Erotica era, although failing to show the same artistic nature that Madonna has. They also have small to and throws on Instagram by tagging each other in photos, posting each other in photos and supporting each other's charitable events i.e. the homeless man stint. Madonna tagged her a while back on a lyric sheet which could suggest that a song has been manufactured.
• Natalia Kills- an unexpected collaboration bearing in mind Madonna likes to work with fresh and currently smashing the charts artists. Natalia Kills' album Perfectionist is a gem and I seriously recommend it. The album not commercially successful is very high quality. It has a very dark tone to it, gothic electra, if you will. It is very dance, synth and gritty. Natalia also has style and a very interesting visual image. This immediately suggests Madonna could do an album with dark electronic. Also, Kills has confirmed that she has written over 8 songs for her. She was also seen at Madonna's 56th birthday bash.
• Mozella - on Twitter has confirmed the first single off the album is finished and will be released soon. Fingers crossed there is no false hope. She has written Wrecking Ball for Miley Cyrus, reiterating the fact that a similar ballad or feature will be made for the album.
• Katy Perry - after doing the iconic V shoot and the fact that they are both one of the most powerful women in music history, it would be silly not to suggest that they are making sweet music. They have similar vocal abilities and Katy is one of the hottest and most popular artists right now. A collaboration with her will definetely get attention. Also, to add to the fire, rumours of Diplo and Katy dating could suggest that Madonna and Katy have close contact.
• Avicii- this is an absolute confirmation. Instagram is responsible for this. After remixing Girls Gone Wild, Madonna shown a keen interest in Avicii's country house wave of music. Like I said, a bit of folksy music could be on the way.
• Disclosure - although denying involvement on the project, 2015 is still a while away and Madonna has clearly shown an interest for this grungy house kind of music. A collaboration hopefully will be on the cards in the future. An extended remix perhaps, or a song to go on Discolsure's new album?
• Pharrell Williams - after being the UK's most downloaded artist with 3 singles - Get Lucky, Blurred Lines and Happy selling over one million downloads, it is reasonable for Madonna to want to work with him. He already helped her in the 11th studio album Hard Candy which features an R and B and Hip Hop/Funk influence. Apparently he lost his hat in the studio!
• Pussy Riot - after all the political mishap with this punk duo, it would be interesting to see if Madonna will do a song in order to promote the idea of equality. Their brand of punk music would be perfect for the current campaign Madonna is embarking on.
• Mariah Carey - after posting a pillow of E=MC2 people initially thought Mariah would have something to do with a secret project. However, this does seem unlikely because Mariah has never really shown an interest in Madonna's career. Shame, she could have learnt a thing or two about staying on top...
• Nicki Minaj - after collaborating on her MDNA album twice, Nicki Minaj could appear on the next feature. Although Madonna does not like to repeat herself, Nicki Minaj definitely is a controversial figure in today's society. She has been tagged several times by Madonna in photos and a photo of them together is present on both of their accounts.
• Skrillex - similar to Diplo, she has posted a picture of him at the rave she attended and the fact that dubstep was mildly experimented in Gang Bang off MDNA, whose to say it won't be used again?
• Chance the Rapper - after being tagged in several photos and meeting each other, it could suggest that Madonna is on the lookout for some pretty hardcore and opinionated rappers. 
• Alicia Keys - Madonna quotes 'she is killing it on my record'. Alicia says she played a piano piece in Madonna's new track however, it would be a surprise to see a collaboration vocally due to their different ranges. Also, Alicia Keys is a passionate person and involves herself in events and making the world a better place.
• Daft Punk - unlikely, but due to her disco roots and the fact that she is 'waiting for them to call her back' suggests that a collaboration or a secret one could be in the midst.
• London Gospel Community Choir - A video and photo was posted of them in the studio singing backing vocals to a song reminiscent of Like a Prayer.
• U2 - after releasing a surprise album this year and posting a photo on Instagram it could suggest a rockier or edgier album could be in the way. Although unlikely, it is nice to assume these things...
• Michael Jackson - after posting several pictures of him and the fact that Sony are planning on releasing over 8 albums of unreleased Michael material, a possible Madonna remix wouldn't be a bad idea. The couple were friends the 1990s and were planning on doing  a song on the album Dangerous. Also, the unity of Royals would be just a meteoric thing to talk about.
• Blood Diamonds - a record producer signed to Skrillex's label is also in the midst of producing tracks for Madonna. The EDM, Dubstep album idea is apparently coming to life.

What would I like for Madonna to do? - Like I said, I would like Madonna to release this album soon and to have the majority of these collaborations and at least 15 tracks of pure gold. I do not want this album to be too generic and for it to have a flair that MDNA and Hard Candy didn't really have. In addition to this, more music videos that again provide a visual art for the audiences and more singles in order to make more extended remixes with other artists that never made the cut, publicity.  A tour should be announced and I would love a Christmas albums to hit shelves one day. Another way in which Madonna can remain on top and release more music is to do featured appearances e.g. on unreleased Diplo and Avicii songs that may not have made the final cut but could be on their new albums. This gives Madonna an extra edge, a good way to connect with younger audiences and to have chart success. She needs to do more promotion as well because, at the end of the day, publicity is everything! She will be in the X Factor finals which will be a great way to get back on the UK charts after the mediocre success of Girls Gone Wild and Give Me All Your Luvin.

CONTACT ME!

Dear Readers,

It is wonderful to see the amazing comments and positive feedback I received. Now, I feel like I should do something in return and get to know you guys more.

These are my contact details:

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Public Apology: I'm not going anywhere

Dear Readers,

Snapshot in Scotland, June 2014

Do not even think for a minute that I have forgotten about my blog. Nothing makes me more happy knowing people around the entire world are actually putting in the effort to look at my jumble of words on the screen. It is so wonderful when I hear that my friends and people in my life have read my blog and interested others in reading it,. Albeit, it has very few articles, I will continue to publish material until my heart decides not to. I have had a rather interesting summer where I have acheived an overall mark of BBBCD in my A levels. Although, not the greatest of marks, I have to look at the positives and realise that I have done better then others on a national scale. However, it is also a 'WAKE UP CALL' to kick some butt this year! I want to get into a great university and feel like I have accomplished something. As an aspiring lawyer, you can understand how competitive it is and essential it is to do well this year.

 In addition to getting my A levels, I want on a lovely holiday to Madeira with family friends to celebrate my parents' 25th anniversary. It was lovely to get a shade of tan on my skin for once. However, 4 weeks later, I returned to my colour drained self. 


I have also started learning to drive. This means that all you lovely people that own a car or are even remotely close to the public road, GET OUT OF MY WAY !! In other news, I have also rejoined a competitive swimming club in order to turn the bingo rings and my six pack of rolls into a swimmer's body. Well, at least that is what I'm hoping for...

In a nutshell, this blog is simply an update to what I have been up to this summer and I want to add that I will be back with more blogs, particularly in my free time. 

Katy Perry

As we enter the intense exam period, I decided to do one last blog for a while. But don't worry, I will be back soon in June with plenty more to offer. My muse has been a bit fickle as I haven't been able to think of nothing else apart from exams and the relief I will get when its through.

But something else will happen to me during the busy May period: I will see Katy Perry live in concert with my best friend, Bianca Stanescu. We are both hyped about this concert as it will also be the first time we've met up in almost 2 years!

The tickets were given to me not too long ago on my 17th birthday from my loving family. I have wanted to see Katy in her California Dreams Tour after, Teenage Dream came out. One of my best friends got the opportunity and I was extremely jealous.

For me, Katy Perry has been one of the best singers I've seen in this generation of music. She is genuine, honest, smart and writes songs that are easy to relate to. She consistently breaks boundaries and pushes herself to do better. All of her videos, have been extremely creative, whether its her acting as Cleopatra or reinventing her nerdy alter ego Kathy Beth Terry. She pays tribute to a lot of artists, films and always has a story to tell. And in fact, lots of artists now pay tribute to her such as Glee, Selena Gomez, Cher Lloyd and other aspiring musicians that want to mirror her career. Everyone knows her, everyone wants to be her.

One of her alter egos, Katy Patra

Also, I went in the summer to see her debut biographical film to get a glimpse of what happens behind the stage, the make-up and how she copes with her new-found fame and the breakdown of her marriage to Russell Brand. She was dropped by 3 labels yet she never gave up on her dream which is an inspiring message for everyone that we can all become someone. She is now the most popular person on Twitter, has 2 number one albums and has sold a whopping 100 million singles in just 6 years. Approximately 10 of her singles are amongst the biggest selling singles of all time. 

http://www.officialcharts.com/features/katy-perrys-best-selling-singles-revealed-2444/

http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/chart-beat/5657799/ask-billboard-whos-sold-more-katy-perry-or-lady-gaga

Her new album Prism has recently come out and I can't wait to see how she continues to promote it and what singles she will choose. Fingers crossed for Legendary Lovers and International Smile. This album has the full potential to blow people away just like Teenage Dream. It has a more vulnerable touch to it, yet equalising the fun and magic Katy has to offer.

DISCOGRAPHY: Teenage Dream is the only album to have 5 number one singles from an album in America by a female artist. In UK, it has 7 top 10 singles, amongst the most in history. Roar is the biggest selling single in 2013 in Australia and Prism itself the biggest selling album in 2013 by a female artist, closely beating Beyonce and Miley Cyrus.

In relation to the concert, I expect Katy Perry will continue to push herself and make the show extremely colourful. Since, now she will have more Number 1 songs to perform than she did on her previous tour. There will be more content, more action, more dazzle. In addition to this, I will get the full 'Katy Perry Experience'. The stage has a triangular segment in the middle called the Reflection Section which I will be standing in. It will be the perfect place to see her perform and interact with her fans. As well as this, the cheeky duo, Icona Pop will be supporting her. So, clearly, it will be an unforgettable night. Better prepare the memory on my camera and iPhone! Take a look at the picture below to see where the Reflection Section is.

What is my favourite song? - E.T. - A mesh up of All the Things She Said by T.A.T.U and We Will Rock You by Queen. Its hip hop, club, dance genre. The video is very visual and cosmic as well as the lyrics.

What is my favourite album? - Obviously Teenage Dream. There is not one song I don't like off the album. I love Prism and One of the Boys but there is a slight detection of filler tracks.

What is my favourite video? - Last Friday Night or The One That Got Away. Both completely different sides of the spectrum. One is a party video which tributes the 1970s, 80s and 90s along with mega features like Rebecca Black. The One That Got Away is bitter-sweet and touches your heart.

Being a Vegeterian?

I've constantly debated whether I should take the leap and give up meat forever. I tried giving it up as part of my New Year's Resolution in 2010 but having brought up in a household that serves up meat for almost every course, it was hard to drop cold turkey. Also, I read this online article about a recent study about how healthy are vegetarians?

Facts discovered:

• Vegetarians visit their doctors more often and are more prone to allergies
• They also have 'a 50% increased risk of both heart attacks and cancer'
• They are also more likely to develop depression and anxiety disorders
• But vegetarians tend to be more active and less likely to drink and smoke
• The research also revealed that people of high socioeconomic status are more likely to be vegetarian.

In my opinion, it would make sense why this research shows this. Think about it! Meat is an excellent source of protein as well as a bit of fat which is needed for essential insulation, internal organ shielding and also good for developing muscles and repairing bones. Most of our body functions with proteins e.g. enzymes. In addition to this, people often worry that red meat increases the risk of cancer. The simple fact is that it is high in saturated fats and that it is not recommended to eat high levels of it. A little bit of anything can't hurt. People have eaten red meats for millions of years, why suddenly drop that? Cheeses, tofu and other substitutes for meat cannot compensate to the lack of intake your body requires. Being a pescaterian can have some benefits as Omega 3 which is good for the brain and muscles however, fish is very expensive and its simply a luxury in most of society's cases. As for the slaughtering of animals, this has been going on for a very long time, and it is being thoroughly managed in agricultural businesses. It is not as if we will be running out of cows. Farmers and livestock owners have breeding programmes and make up for the stock they kill for produce. It  Also, animals are used for a lot more things such as products that we use day to day. Does that mean you are suddenly going to stop using glue, soaps and bags for the rest of your life? Another interesting fact is that we don’t have the teeth of vegetarian animals - our incisors and canines are the teeth of meat eaters. Without these teeth our ancestors would not have survived. So honestly, it is inevitable to not be using or consuming the product of an animal in your day to day to lives... 

Ready, Set Cook: Make your own home-made Oreos

OREO COOKIES

Greetings aspiring little chefs! This blog is short and quick. I was reading up on some interesting articles when this fantastic recipe popped up. Give it a go if you dare! It's a small blog but I have been so busy with exams, the summer has a lot more creative blogs coming your way. Be prepared...

So... Let's begin our cooking!

INGREDIENTS: (Makes around 40) 

For the biscuits: 

• 285g butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 
• 250g icing sugar
• 120g cocoa powder 
• pinch of salt
• 200g plain flour 

For the filling: 

• 115g butter
• 500g icing sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons water 

Instructions: First, you make a chocolate pastry using the cocoa, flour, butter and sugar. You then chill it, roll it out and cut out small rounds, using a cutter.Afterwards, bake, then cool, and fill with vanilla butter cream. In a nutshell, a lot of mixing...

HOW IT TURNED OUT: 

Review of the person who first made it: Originally American, the branded version of these biscuits is available in every British supermarket and is one of my children’s favourites. The homemade ones were biscuit perfection. The cocoa stopped the pastry being too sweet, the butter icing had just the right amount of vanilla, and the crunch/squidge texture was spot on. Better than the real thing. However, a packet of Oreos costs 72p, — mine worked out at double that. But they were more than twice as good!

My Disney Collection Part 1 #Disney

Toy Story 3: I wasn't entirely impressed by the first two films as I was with this one. It's probably because this film dealt with more teenage issues that I will be facing soon such as no longer playing with toys and that I will one day leave for university. This film is a reminder of every person's childhood innocence and how each toy is like a best friend. I love that this film is so adventurous and also portrays real emotions. My favourite character is Buzz Lightyear. I love the scene where he transforms into a Latin dancer trying to impress Jessie. 

Finding Nemo: Fish are friends not food! This has been one of my life quotes since the film was released. I am a serious Finding Nemo fan, I travelled to Sydney in 2006, been to millions of aquariums and have scuba dived and snorkelled. I practically accomplished most activities that have occurred in that film. The DVD was released on my 7th birthday and I also predicted the same year that a new Finding Nemo will be released. And it will! What I love most about Finding Nemo is the fact that Disney Pixar have designed a story based on the mysterious creatures of the underwater world and has educated me about different types of fish. It is an emotional story about a kid's father who wanders from afar to find him. Finding Nemo has a very heroic theme behind it and gives the sense that sea life act as a community, as a team.

The Lion King: Probably my favourite film of all time. I love the theatrical nature of this film which features heartbreak, triumph over evil and a singing meerkat and warthog! I even went to see the West End production of Lion King for my mum's birthday and it was phenomenal. The colours, the animals, the tribal dances, it was a dream come true. Also, in the Summer of 2013 I took up the opportunity to go to Kenya for a month and saw the majority of all the animals on safari. My favourite character is Simba because he got up the courage to take matters into his own hands and prove to people the extent of his power.

Aladdin: If I had 3 wishes on an Arabian night, that would be a very difficult situation. This exotic cartoon portrays a poor boy that falls in love with a princess.  When I went to Morocco, I could see the exact resemblance of the fictional town Agraba. My favourite character is Genie because he is fast, snappy, funny and caring. The most memorable scene for me is where Jasmine and Aladdin sit on the roof and watch the fireworks burst in the sky. So romantic!

Ratatouille: One adorable mouse that changes the face of French cuisine. This film beautifully captures one of the most jaw dropping cities in the world with an adorable mouse that is willing to push the boundaries of being one of the most detested species on earth into a chef/artist. My favourite character of course is Remy because he never gives up on his dream and his feisty attitude allows him to triumph all the challenges in his life. Like Chef Gusteau says 'Only the fearless cooks can be the greatest'.

Frozen: After seeing the magic of Tangled, I knew straight away that Frozen wouldn't disappoint. I first watched it during the end of the Christmas period at a family friend's house. The film is a dazzling work of art. I love the winter theme behind it and the fact that it draws inspiration from the fictional character, The White Witch. The plot is adorable and displays the power of love in so many different ways and that inner conflict can be eradicated. My favourite character is Olaf the Snowman, he is adorable and so very confused about the season of summer. I also downloaded the motion picture soundtrack for this film as I found myself humming 'Let It Go' one week later. This film has the potential to become a huge West End or Broadway theatrical phenomenon that I would watch over and over.

Miniature Dachshund, The #Dog TAG

Part of my life consists of looking after one of the cutest breeds of dog known to mankind, the Dachshund. Famously known as 'weiner' or 'hotdogs' because of their long spine. What's even better is that I have a miniature one, one big enough to cradle like a baby. Her name is Pippa and she is two years old. But don't let age deceive you, she still looks and acts like a little baby. Whilst having a nervous personality towards other dogs, she is not afraid to bark at strangers in our home like a Rottweiler. She was successful in scaring two German shepherd dogs away. Keep trying, buddy! 

She was born in Wales to a boy called Hugo and a girl called Trudy. Her pedigree name is Eskims Gaslight Girl! I should think so too! When she farts, its like a dynamite fuse has been burnt!

She loves to chew on bottles, toys (particularly a hamburger toy or a furry monkey), go on walks and likes to strut around whenever we dress her up in her Christmas dress or furry necked coat. On her birthday, we made her an amazing cake out of bread, liver patte, bone treats and smarties (purely for decoration).

My godparents have an old regular dachshund and I fell in love with it instantly. I always wanted another dog ever since we sold my cat's kittens and the time we had to sell my cocker spaniel, Nala. A connection between a man and dog is so intriguing. I love Pippa unconditionally and she always cheers me up whenever I am down. Those big, glossy and empty eyes just put a grin on my face.



 Here are a few facts about Dachshunds:

• They originate from Germany and are a cross breed between Toy Terriers and Pinschers

• Their name originates from dachs (badger) and hund (dog)

• They can suffer from spinal disc problems as they get older due to their long spines and short rib cages

• They live on an average of 13 years.

Cutest moments: 

1. When I played the piano, she would always come by and sing along to it like a werewolf howling at the moon.
2. When we adopted her, she quickly went to the toilet in a cage before she left. A pit stop before hitting the road!
3. I was rocking out to a tune when I accidentally kicked her in the face. She cried a little yelp and her eye kept shimmering as if I punched her like a gangster.
4. In the garden, a bumblebee stung her in the nose which caused her to look like a hippo. Her nose is long but it became wider. It was shockingly funny.
5. Whenever we give her slices of ham it looks like she vacuums it up in her mouth. Whenever we give her carrots, she lies on her belly and holds the carrot like a stick or a bar of chocolate
6. When she has her ears folded inside out, it looks as if she has become a bat or E.T.

The amount of memories I have had with this little furball has been so fulfilling in my teenage years. Since I am an only child, she is the one thing I can look after, call my own and play with.

International Women's Day: Madonna

Happy International Women's Day, Ladies! May this day be the one where you shine and show the world what you are made of! And who else is more perfect to write a blog about than the legend of music that is Madonna? She was one of the first musicians I ever listened to along with Britney Spears, ABBA, Michael Jackson and Bee Gees. However, she dominates over all of them. I've seen her live once on her record smashing Sticky and Sweet Tour at the O2 Arena, I have all her albums and I have watched many of her videos and motion pictures.

What I love most about her is that throughout 4 decades, she has been able to reinvent herself from the girl next door to a global megastar. How many people can master all genres of music and create a new a image and persona every year. She has been the face of controversy ever since she landed with her debut album, often criticised for being considered 'minnie mouse on helium' and 'a whore'. However, she has fought through the hatred of critics and jealous people alike to prove that she is hear to stay now and forever. She has branched out not only into films such as Evita and Swept Away but has been the icon of fashion. She was involved in several campaigns inlcluding Dolce and Gabbana, H and M and Versace. Now, at the age of 55 she has taken her career into her own hands and has produced a chain of gyms, skincare products and a clothing line whose name pays tribute to her hit single 'Material Girl'. What also makes her an outstanding woman is the fact that she has selflessly pumped millions of dollars into her charity 'Raising Malawi' in building schools for children who struggle to receive an education and have any sort of future. Moreover, in the 2006 and 2009, she adopted two children and gave them a home. 

Madonna's road to success has not been easy and has often admitted to have been the victim of abuse, rape and the difficulty of not having a motherly figure throughout her childhood. Having been through two unsuccessful marriages and a chain of highly publicised relationships, she has come back stronger than ever. She is able to be vulnerable as well as a powerful role model to women. Her music has the ability to relate to different situations such as Papa Don't Preach pays tribute to teenage pregnancies and the Like A Prayer video promotes the message of equality and putting a halt to racism once and for all.

Whilst her films have not been a major success on the box office, this does not necessarily mean they were not good. My favourite films by Madonna are: Evita where she plays the iconic Argentinian politician Eva Peron, Swept Away where she plays a snobby millionaire who gets stranded on a Greek Island and falls in love with a fisherman. W.E. is also a cinematic masterpiece that details the love between Wallis Simpson and Edward VIII and adapting it to a woman's life in modern times. Having the ability to not only sing and act, but to also direct is definitely something to be taking seriously.

Madonna has written books targeted at young children which have peaked on the New York's best-seller and also the controversial SEX book that contains explicit pictures of her photoshoot during the promotion of her album Erotica. Whilst deemed as a tool of getting attention, it was in fact a book cleverly designed to promote the power and passion of women and how they should not be afraid to hide their perfections and to express themselves just like men do.

She has been an icon to so many modern artists such as Katy Perry, Miley Cyrus, Rihanna, Beyonce and of course Lady Gaga. Everyone remembers 2011 where a heated row occurred between the two ladies in relation to their songs 'Express Yourself' and 'Born This Way'. In addition to this, Madonna is also inspired by the many modern artists that walk this planet. This has been clear as she has collaborated with Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake, Pharrell, Timbaland, LMFAO, Avicii, Nicki Minaj, MIA. The Glee Cast on TV have paid tribute to her by singing many of her classic tunes and releasing a tribute album that peaked number 1 in America and Canada.

Madonna has not been shy to liberate herself on stage and once again show the true power of her feminity. In 2003, she famously French kissed Britney and Christina Aguilera. In addition to this, on her MDNA tour she has given speeches about the freedom to be oneself, one clear example was her speech on releasing Pussy Riot, a Russian punk duo that caused a musical protest in a Moscow church.

What is my favourite song of Madonna? - Hung Up - a disco fused dance jam containing the sample of Gimme Gimme A Man After Midnight

What is my favourite Madonna album? - Confessions of the Dancefloor - jam packed disco album that could set a club ablaze.

What is my favourite Madonna video? - Vogue- a beautiful black and white video with a slice of elegance that pays tribute to many fashion icons and promotes the idea of liberation

What is my favourite Madonna costume? - the burlesque cone bras or the the Like A Virgin boy toy dress

She is the biggest selling female artist of all time and fourth best selling artist behind The Beatles, Elvis and Michael Jackson. 4 of her albums are in the category of the best selling albums of all time and her album You Can Dance is the second highest selling remix album. Her Sticky and Sweet Tour is the biggest tour by a female solo artist, and 3 of her other tours still remain to be one of the highest. She has more dance number ones, gold records than any other artist. In the UK she has got the most amount of number ones for a solo artist and second most albums for a woman in USA. Most Top 10's in both the UK and US. Is there stopping this woman? I think not...

A New Direction...

Having been nurtured in a Catholic School for so long it has been hard to get a better view of different cultures and religious ideas. It feels as if I have been fixated to follow a set of rules created from one of the branches of Christianity. Having moved out of my secondary school, its meant I have taken a new step and now I have the freedom in believing in what I feel will guide me through the rest of my life. After studying religion and philosophy, both practically and analytically, I have discovered that I disagree with many of the ideas and fundamental doctrines of the Church. We live in a new generation where science has taken the lead into discovering how we ended up here in the first place. However, this doesn't necessarily mean that science has the answer to everything. In my opinion, the key to finding the answer is combining the two and also having an open mind about everything. After the rush of these new feelings, I decided to look up to see if there is in existence a religion or group of people that feel the same way. The end result, I have found that Buddhism could be the answer to my views. Buddhism is a practice, not a religion and focuses on eradicating human suffering and promoting love in a passive way.

Foodies: Top Restaurants I've Eaten Part 1

Whilst I am a very fussy eater, I can't help but define it as 'good tastes'. Analysing food is what top critics do and that's what I intend to do every time I eat something. What scale would I put this meal 1 or 10? In my opinion, I have the similar traits of Anton Ego from the classic Disney film Ratatouille. It's only because I want to get that sudden silence and loud pencil dropping effect when I have my first bite! 

Do you have perspective? I'll make a deal, you provide the food, I'll provide the perspective

1. Nando's - I think everyone can agree with me that Nando's dominates the competition. You are able to choose your own scale of intense heat for your chicken and have some amazing sides such as fresh olives, nuts, chips and salad. It is a perfect place to go with friends and enjoy a Sunday dinner. The layout of the restaurant pays tribute to Africa as the restuarant originates from a Mozambique theme.  On my scale of 1 to 10 it has to peak at 8. My favourite meal is the 1/2 chicken with lemon and herb Peri Peri sauce and a side of chips and corn on the cob. The flavour is not spicy yet it has a zesty kick. Also, I like to add on the side a hotter alternative Wild Herb. The chicken is soft, the chips are fried to crispy perfection and the corn on the cob is the cherry on the top. Might I suggest a slap of butter on the corn and a side of refreshing olives?

2. Prezzo - having been raised in a Dolmio infested household, it is impossible to for me to not enjoy the delicious goods that the fine Italian chefs have to offer. This is why I love Prezzo so much, they have a very welcoming and sophisticated presence and their meals are piping hot and fresh. Unlike Nando's the structure of the building is quite simple and even has a small bar to give it that extra family atmosphere. On my scale of 1 to 10 it has to peak at 7. My favourite meal would be the spaghetti carbonara. I enjoy very cheesy platters so this is why carbonara is my favourite out of the entire catalogue. The sauce is very creamy and Prezzo use finely sliced Prosciutto ham. Top tip: always put Parmesan cheese and mix the spaghetti with your fork! It gives the flavour of the sauce an extra cheesy taste. Mamma Mia! 

3. The Real China - the buffet restaurant that allows yourself to drive out of your comfort zone and dive into trying new and mystical flavours. The beauty of this restaurant is that one plate is not enough! The buffet offers you are smorgasbord of platters such as dumplings, fishy surprises, sweet meats, soups, I could go on! On my scale of 1 to 10 it will have fall at 7 also! My favourite meal that I generally scoop on my plate are crab cakes, crunchy seaweed, egg fried rice, pork and shrimp dumplings, duck and squid! For desert, I snatch a shot glass of chocolate mousse and a deliciously rich slice of cheesecake. Despite this restaurant is limited in locations, it is worth experiencing the nature of the food! #orientallove  

Weekly Top 5: TV Series

Top 5 TV Series


1. Friends - 10 years, 10 seasons of comedy, love, tears and a whole package of wacky experiences 6 best of friends have in the greatest city in the world. What's so mesmerising about Friends is that you can relate to characters regardless of your age and gender. It is a series where all the characters are loved, never hated and every episode guarantees to give you a big smile on your face. These series are a great inspiration to all of the modern series. Watch it and pick up the similarities. 

2. The Big Bang Theory - My second favourite TV series is Two and A Half Men... Bazinga! Regardless of your intellect and knowledge of science, you don't have to be a 'brainiac' to enjoy the humour of the Big Bang Theory. If you want to see socially challenged geniuses trying to live an ordinary life, then this is the show for you... 6 different characters come together to bond in a very very unique way..

3. The Simpsons - A family of yellow people living in the beloved town of Springfield. For 26 years, The Simpsons have continued to wow audiences of all ages through their diverse jokes and their 'out of the box' experiences. The 25 series have produced a series of musicals, adventures, Halloween Specials and even a huge movie and app that have become one of the biggest grossing movies and products of all time. 

4. How I Met Your Mother - One story that has lasted for nine years. How one man found his one true love. How I Met Your Mother is a 'cool' and 'modern' adaptation to Friends with a pinch of crazy.  If you wanna see characters re-enact strange tasks and stories then this is the show to watch. Also, a pre-warning... the mother takes 8 seasons to be discovered. It's like reading a book, you can't just jump to Chapter 8, you must indulge all the chapters...

5. Rules of Engagement - Whether you are married, engaged, sex-driven or just
single then rules of engagement is the show for you. Similar to the comedy of Friends, Rules of Engagement deals with people of all ages trying to live their ordinary lives in New York City. Possibly, the highlight of the entire is show is the unusual relationship between Timmy and Russell. How can he tolerate the torture he is given? Is it even legal to make an assistant rub lotion on your body?

What are your favourite TV Series? 

Vampires

I couldn't wait until Halloween to unlock this post because many people associate my name with Vladimir the Vampire. And frankly, I love it! Vlad is a very uncommon name. It is defined as Prince of the World. Since my last name is Marin, it combines to form The Prince of the World and Sea. What a crazy coincidence that I am a Pisces at the same time. Something fishy has gone on....

Vampires are defined as blood drinking monsters and have featured in myths for thousands of years. The Ancient Greeks believed in creatures called lamaie that ate children and drank blood. Ew!

Even on the other side of the world, there are stories from India from 3500 years ago that talk about these vampire like creatures called Rakshasas.

Modern ideas come from Eastern Europe. They are pale skinned and 'undead' who sleep in coffins and come out at night to drink blood and transform others into vampires.

Legend has it that by drinking blood, supernatural powers are gained. This is starting to sound like a pretty epic camp-fire story! Where are those damn marshmallows??

The most famous vampire is Count Dracula from the self-titled book by Bram Stoker. It is believed that Stoker drew inspiration from the bloodthirsty Romanian icon that is Vladimir the Impaler.

If you were to find a book on how to get rid of vampires, all you need is a crucifix, garlic and holy water.
3 ways to kill a vampire: Drive a wooden stake in the heart (not the crotch! As so cleverly portrayed in the Treehouse of Horror), expose the vampire to sunlight or set him on fire. Burn baby burn!

Don't worry ladies! It just so happens that in 1560, a Slovak noblewoman, Elizabeth Bathroy killed over 600 girls in order to keep a youthful complexion. She practically drunk their blood down like a drink from MacDonald's.

The medical condition, porphyria, also causes sensitivity to sunlight and certain foods cause the gums to deteriorate and give the incisors an appearance of fangs! Fang-tastic!

In modern times, books such as the Twilight Saga pays tribute to these mythological creatures. Some people have commented that my messy hair resembles that of Edward Cullen. I think I am starting to fit this 'vampire portfolio'...What could this mean??

In other batty television news, True Blood and Vampire Diaries are key examples of tributes to vampires. 

Vampires also have had an impact on technology. If you can't be a vampire in real life, then you can on the Sims. You can dress (s)he up and make them socialise with other 'species' of society.  

It is insane to think how a small scary story can evolve into so many different directions throughout the endless generations.

What does your name mean? Do you have any legendary stories about your name?