A little Q and A!

I thought it would be neat to have a little fun on here and change it up by answering some questions related to music! Plus, it's a great way for you to get to know me a bit better! I will try to add some detail or rationale to each of my answers! These questions are in no particular order either! Without further ado, let's go!

What is your favorite genre of music?

I am really big into Alternative Rock and Britpop! It was what I was raised on!

What is your least favorite genre?

I would have to say Country. I really don't get what all the hype is about. All they do is sing about trucks and drinking beer, or about getting in their truck to go get beer haha. I understand why it is so popular where I live. For god sake Garth Brooks played 9 shows here. I think country dominates our airwaves. To each their own though! I respect everyone's taste.

Can you play any instruments?

I can play the guitar, ukelele, and a bit of piano. I know the basics for the guitar, and have some songs under my belt.I have the most experience with the guitar, and was able to teach myself the basics to learn songs that I wanted to play. The first song I learned was "All I Want Is You" By U2. No, it wasn't Wonderwall, that came second! I always thought playing the guitar was super complicated, and that I would never be able to play it. I ended up getting one for Christmas one year, so I had no option but to teach myself! Piano I can play, but I need to use videos to watch to learn the song I want! Sadly I have forgotten how to play the songs I knew, and I can only play "Every Breaking Wave" By U2.

Do you think your favorite music now will be the same 20 years from now?

I can't see rock going through a transformation in the next 20 years. I'd like to say that it is dying, but i'd be wrong. There is plenty of new bands coming out that are keeping it alive! I think the sound will always be the same. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.

What was the first concert you ever went to?

The first concert I ever went to was Coldplay, while they were on their Viva La Vida Tour, in 2009 I believe! I had always wanted U2 to be my first show, but I was old enough to go when Coldplay came around, so I went with my siblings! It was great! I have seen them several times more since, and I think i'm done seeing them live. The only way I would go is if they toured one of their older albums. I'm not very keen on their new music...

What is the best concert you have been to?

Well this is an easy one, U2's 360 tour in Edmonton, June 1st, 2011. The first time I saw my favorite band live. I skipped a whole day of grade 9 and camped out with my brother and friends to get close on the floor. It was the greatest experience ever, from the start of the day, the buildup to the concert, and the concert itself. Nothing tops being within arms reach of your idol (Bono) and having him stick his arm out in front of you so close you can almost touch it. I always say that was the greatest day of my life, and I could die today and I would be happy. I have seen U2 a total of 3 times now! I hope I can see them more!

Whose your favorite band?

Another easy one haha, U2. I was introduced to U2 at the tender age of 8 years old if I remember correctly. It was all thanks to my big brother. I may elaborate further on a different post one of these days on my love for U2. Actually, it's not an easy question haha, because it's always a toss up between Oasis and U2!

Whose your least favorite band?

No, not Nickelback haha. I'd have to say Bon Jovi. Again, what's all they hype about? I don't really have a reason as to why I don't like them. I do remember arguing with a classmate in Jr. High that Bon Jovi was better than U2. Me being me, I had to defend my band! I always thought they were trying to mimic U2 and their success. An American U2 haha. They've got nothing on U2 though. If someone wants to argue this, I am down!

What musician did you like in high school?

Bono was always my main guy, but I have to say Noel Gallagher was right up there. I really started listening to Oasis towards the end of Jr. High, like Grade 9, and then into high school. Why do I love him so much? The guy is a legend! He wrote 99.9% of Oasis's songs, and they're genius. He is a genius. Don't Look Back in Anger should be the national anthem of the UK that song is so good. He's a genius songwriter, and he's just so damn cool. He doesn't give a shit what anyone thinks about him and his music, because he knows how good he is. He has that IDGAF attitude, and I love it. I think everyone could use a bit of that attitude!

What Artist/Band have you recently gotten into?

Most recently, in the past year and a little, would be Stereophonics. I stumbled upon one of their songs while on a run. I was listening to an oasis inspired playlist on Google Play Music. It had songs from bands that were similar to Oasis. After the one song I was hooked. I immediately did some research on them. I went on to listen to their most recent album at the time, then worked my way from the start of their work up to present. They are phenomenal. They're from Wales which is pretty cool, and their lead singer has such an amazing, raw voice. It may not be everyones taste, but I loved it. Have a listen to their song "Dakota". You will thank me later. :D

What band have you seen the most?

The Arkell's. I'm pretty sure I have seen them 9 times. They are awesome. I think I have seen them enough, as I have skipped out on going to see them every time they come.

What's a concert that surprised you the most?

I would have to say Metallica! I don't listen to them on a regular basis, but they are heavy rock legends, so I had to go see them! I didn't know what to expect, but the show was great! It was loud AF haha. It was surprising because the stage ended up falling apart towards the end of the show. Like stuff was falling from the rafters with like pyro and stuff. Looking back now there wasn't any technical difficulties, it was all apart of the show!

What was the last concert you went to?

Elton John! I went with my dad and my brother. I had to see him before he retired! Elton John is another one of my favorites! I love Goodbye Yellow Brick Road!

Do you sing in the shower?

Yes, and I am proud that I do! Anyone who says they don't is a liar haha.

Can you sing in front of others?

Eh, I usually don't. It depends on who I am with. If it is friends/family or people that are close to me, I can. I don't always though!

Can you think of an example of music calming people or increasing their efficiency?

Yup. After the bombings in Manchester, a vigil was held for all the lives that were lost. During the vigil, one girl began to sing "Don't Look Back In Anger" and everyone started to sing along. It was a beautiful moment to see people unified after such a horrific event. Noel was shown a clip of it, and he actual shed some tears. He realized the effect his music has on us. It brings us together.

Do you sing in the car?

Yup, a majority of the time! More so when I am driving alone, but I do like to sing to my girlfriend while we drive! I like her voice better than mine! She has the voice of an angel when she sings. I am always in awe when I catch her breaking into her singing voice!

Do you think music can heal people?

I think so! Music is one of the things that keeps me going. I always say if I am ever in the hospital (which I hope never happens) I just want headphones so I can listen to music and read! If I was ever in a coma, I'd want my earbuds in. That probably sounds weird, but I feel it would help. Who knows it may even bring me out of it...

Why is the recorder called the recorder?

Hell if I know! all I know is I hated playing that think in elementary! They couldn't have picked something different? I bet they picked it because it was cheap haha. Has anyone actually recorded themselves playing the recorder? Either way, I have no clue why it was named that. Maybe it was the best instrument to record with back in the day? Don't laugh at me because I bet you don't know either! I'll probably google it after!

What is your parents favorite band/artist?

Uhh for my dad it's probably The Beatles/Lennon, Josh Groban, Andrea Bocelli. As for Mom, I really don't know haha. She's not that into music as we kids are. Although she did come with us to see U2 in 2011. She has also come to see Paul McCartney!

What was the last CD you bought?

I used to buy CD's for my old car, as it didn't have an AUX cord. I actually had quite the collection. It was easier to buy compilation albums for a band that cover all their songs, as opposed to individual albums. I bought both! The last one I bought was Liam Gallagher's solo debut, "As You Were". It was the last CD I listened to in my old car. I actually brought it over to my new car!

Whose your favorite Beatle?

John Lennon was always my favorite. I loved his solo work. I listened to his solo music the most out of all The Beatles! I also think my Dad played a part in my choice too. He would always sing "Beautiful Boy" to my brother. It makes me so sad that John was taken from us. I really wonder what the world would be like today if he was still around, using his voice and music in politics. I bet it would be very different than the world we live in today. I can only imagine. I had the chance to visit Strawberry Field's in Central Park. It was an emotional experience for all of my siblings. It was such a calm and soothing atmosphere, with a guy playing Beatles songs on an acoustic. I also got a picture at The Dakota Hotel where John was shot. It was eerie to think that I was standing where it all took place so many years ago. I love you John. Thank you for your music, and sharing your gift with the world! We need you now more than ever.

What song have you had on repeat as of late?

As of late, I have been listening to The Stroke's new song "Bad Decisions". I haven't heard much from them, and I do need to go back and listen to their previous albums, but this song is really catchy, and it captures the signature Strokes sound! It's nice to have The Strokes back and making music!

Well, that's all I have for now! I hope you got to learn something new about me! If you have any questions for me, just let me know! Thanks for reading!

-Marco xx