Once upon a time, there was Idol Musings. Since February 2008, I have written faithfully on American Idol (and occasionally the other reality singing shows) with insight, snark humor and self-righteous candor. And Adam Lambert. I’ve written a lot about Adam Lambert. And within the blog’s 618 posts, I also wrote occasionally about music in... Continue Reading →
“Cause now you’re in my head, my heart, my body parts.” Sure, these lyrics from Sweden’s Felicia in My System - an absolute banger of an electro-pop song - may not remind anybody of Bob Dylan or Leonard Cohen. But in the Eurovision Song Contest, only two things matter: what will (supposedly) objective juries of... Continue Reading →
Despite being just past one-third of the way through 2026, we’ve already been graced with a full year’s worth of great music. Here’s what’s been keeping my ears busy lately. How do I describe Robyn’s and Jessie Ware’s new albums in a PG-13 way? The kids today would say they’re “thirsty.” If you’re not a... Continue Reading →
I've always said that all the proof I need that God exists is that there is such a thing as the female singing voice. In no particular order, here are a dozen international female musical artists I have long obsessed over. Liv Kristine Norway (ex-Leaves' Eyes). The voice of an angel. Charlotte Wessels The Netherlands... Continue Reading →
Here’s Part 2 of the most recent Current Obsessions. Let’s get caught up on some banger singles that I’ve had on repeat. Robyn The Swedish dance/pop queen has a new album, Sexistential, dropping on March 27. To keep us fed until then, she’s given us three hot and sexy singles. Here’s a taste. https://open.spotify.com/track/6rY4CO2ko4iWpSIm93fWJv?si=b7e6afa3926e4a94 Jessie... Continue Reading →
It’s been a minute since the last Current Obsessions. Let’s first get caught up on some very fine albums that I’ve had on repeat. The next post will offer up some hot singles. Beyond the Black Break the Silence This melodic metal album is eminently enjoyable from start to finish. It’s just what I want... Continue Reading →
magical | ˈmajəkəl | adjective beautiful or delightful in such a way as to seem removed from everyday life. For me, 2025 was a magical year for popular music. These are the 14 beautiful albums I delighted in the most. As usual, musically, they’re all over the map, representing my faves from the 8,425,594 genres... Continue Reading →
JL, a Longtime Loyal Follower of These Musings, asks the question1: “I know Taylor Swift isn’t your fav but wondered if you’ve listened and had thoughts on her new album that’s all songs collaborating with Max Martin and Shellback. I’ve heard people say it’s very pop Sweden..which means little to me but made me think... Continue Reading →
Ray's Musings 