Clay Aiken, Movies Make Wednesday 'Mini' Special

As Long As We're Here - Clay Aiken
View montage by gerwhisp full screen at YouTube.

Time for Reflection, Relaxation

Mid-Week 'Mini' Provides Choices

For me, Tuesdays are wall-to-wall music lessons at Wesleyan Christian Academy, fortunately followed by lazy Wednesdays during which I catch up with friends and family online and off, listen to Clay Aiken music, and watch movies.

Somewhere along the way, my friend Scarlett tagged this mid-week day off a "mini," often wishing she had one, too. Of course, a "mini" only lasts one day; and then it's back to teaching lessons on Thursday.

In checking through email saved for just such a Wednesday, I discovered a thoughtful piece shared a couple of weeks ago by Marlyne. See what you think.

Something To Think About

1] Prayer is not a spare wheel that you pull out when in trouble, but it is a STEERING WHEEL that directs the right path throughout.

2] So why is a car's WINDSHIELD so large and the rear view mirror so small? Because our PAST is not as important as our FUTURE. So, look ahead and move on.

3] Friendship is like a BOOK. It takes few seconds to burn, but it takes years to write.

4] All things in life are temporary. If going well, enjoy it; they will not last forever. If going wrong, don't worry; they can't last long either.

5] Old Friends are Gold! New Friends are Diamond! If you get a Diamond, don't forget the Gold! Because to hold a Diamond, you always need a Base of Gold!

6] Often when we lose hope and think this is the end, GOD smiles from above and says, "Relax, sweetheart; it's just a bend, not the end!"

7] When GOD solves your problems, you have faith in HIS abilities. When GOD doesn't solve your problems HE has faith in your abilities.

8] A blind person asked St. Anthony: "Can there be anything worse than losing eye sight?" He replied, "Yes, losing your vision!"

9] When you pray for others, God listens to you and blesses them. Sometimes when you are safe and happy, remember that someone has prayed for you.

10] WORRYING does not take away tomorrow's TROUBLES; it takes away today's PEACE.

ALAWH Describes Aiken's Advocacy

"As Long As We're Here," the On My Way Here song from gerwhisp's opening Clay Aiken montage, beautifully reflects the singer's humanitarian philosophy.

A UNICEF Ambassador since 2004 and co-founder of the National Inclusion Project the year before, the singer is well known as an advocate for children the world over. His goal of helping others has inspired many of his fans to take up his causes.

Inspired by Clay's UNICEF projects, these graphics were designed by AmazingCA, 1, 2; cindlu2, 3; Clayquebec1, 4, with photo by Invisible926; and claystruck, 5. All but the animation are clickable.

Going to the Movies Miles Apart

Somehow I made it through the past three decades watching only a few movies here and there. I didn't subscribe to premium channels until a couple of years ago when I signed up for DIRECTV. Later came U-Verse, augmented by Netflix.

My friend Sally gave my film repertoire a real boost the Christmas she sent me a box of 50+ carefully recorded movies she knew I would like. In no time at all, I was hooked! She frequently recommends movies that immediately go on the list.

I can't tell you how enjoyable it is to watch a movie simultaneously with a friend 1,125 miles away. Scarlett and I coordinate our film adventures through chat on Facebook. Typical opening of a show is little more than, "I'm paused at MGM. Say GO!"

And then we are off to the races watching just about every genre in the book! Ironically, each has introduced the other to several movies.

Some our recent movies are A Single Man, Bonneville, Cookie's Fortune, Date Night, It's Complicated, Death at a Funenal (British), Life Is Beautiful, Mrs. Palfrey at the Claremont, My Cousin Vinny, Music Within, October Sky, Secretariat, Searching for Bobby Fischer, The Blind Side, The Great Debaters, The King's Speech, The Paper, The Dream Team, The Reader, Unstoppable, With Honors, and Wooly Boys.

Could SFF Be in My Future?

The lady is is doing her best to turn me into a Sci-Fi Fantasy fan, but she's got a ways to go. I did view Inception twice, but she had to explain a zillion times about participating in and extracting information from another person's dreams. *g*

Ever the techno goddess, Scarlett maintains an up-to-date, color-coded spreadsheet document entitled "Ultimate Movie List" with dates movies are viewed, where the film is available (DVR, purchased DVD, Netflix, Amazon, etc.), the date last watched, even the IMdb viewer rating.

Our running dialogue during the movies is frequently hilarious. The multi-tasker is almost always rendering clack on a neighboring machine. With so many choices, the biggest question on movie nights is ... where do we begin.

Where Do I Begin - Clay Aiken on Tried & True Tour
View montage by molino79 full screen at YouTube.
Video footage by Scarlett and farouche; photos by Invisible926.

Tonight's movie fare is The Shawshank Redemption from Netflix and Amazon. I have seen the film several times, but this highly-rated movie will be brand new to my cohort. Upcoming features include The Cure, The Next Three Days, August Rush, The Town, and Calendar Girls.

Hope you're having a wonderful week and maybe even a mini! Seen any good movies lately?

Caro

Clay Aiken Previews T&T on CBS

Clay awakens weekenders on CBS Early Show Saturday.
Wallpapaer by Fountaindawg

Digital Age Saves Weekend Recap

Aiken's Album Reprises Classics

Guess who missed Clay Aiken's weekend appearance on both the Backstage Live stream and the televised performance on the CBS Saturday morning Early Show!

Definitely my fault with the online mix-up, but my local CBS station doesn't carry the national feed of the Saturday morning Early Show. Faithfully, I watched and taped what turned out to be two solid hours of local news and weather.

A video of Clay's Backstage Live interview with Shira Lazar, which also began at 7 a.m., is now online at CBS. They discussed Clay's new Decca CD release, his iPad, American Idol, UNICEF, and the July-August Timeless Tour with Ruben Studdard.

A/C Problems Hit Carolina Recap

Unfortunately, I don't need weather analysts to tell me it's HOT! My A/C is barely running, needs coolant, and won't be fixed until early Tuesday morning. With outdoor temps predicted to hit 90 degrees Saturday and Sunday, a large box fan and I will be best buds all weekend long -- a scorching reminder of my non A/C childhood in the humid South.

Saturday morning Amazon posted the deluxe album video of Clay discussing the making of Tried & True. It's very possible the online vendor is experiencing a bit of a heat wave, too.

Meanwhile, between the Digital Age, dancermom2, and Fountaindawg, the Carolina blog's report about Clay Aiken's latest promo performance came together. This blog's three videos have been merged on YouTube.

"There's a Kind of Hush" accompanied the promo leading into Clay's intro:

During the singer's introduction, you can hear "Mack the Knife" in the background. The main video also includes the shortened version of "Unchained Melody" and interview:

'Tried & True' a Homecoming for Clay

The CBS website is also featuring an excellent article by Melissa Castellanos about the singer and the Tried & True CD: Clay Aiken Album Like a Homecoming:

When "American Idol" season two favorite Clay Aiken belted out his touching 2003 rendition of Simon & Garfunkel's "Bridge Over Troubled Waters," he won over the hearts of millions.

Now, seven years later, he's built his own bridge of success as a platinum-selling artist, Broadway actor, author and, more recently, a dad.

The down-to-earth, Raleigh, N.C. native just released his fifth studio album, "Tried and True," featuring classics from the '50s and '60s.

"It seems like a little bit of a departure from the last four albums I've made to some extent, but in truth, it's really more of a homecoming in a way, because it's really what I have always wanted to do," Aiken told CBSNews.com.

Aiken points out that the classics had more emphasis on the melody, lyrics and orchestration when compared to contemporary songs heard on the radio today.

"They are standards because they did set the standard for what's really excellent," he added.

Aiken stopped by "The Early Show on Saturday Morning"'s "Second Cup Cafe" to perform his version of "Can't Take My Eyes Off of You" and "Mack the Knife."

Clay & Company accompanied CBS off the air with "Can't Take My Eyes Off of You":

So did Singerman sell some CD's this Saturday? At Clayversity, Rainlover posted the following:

A friend -- not a Clay fan -- just called. She hadn't seen GMA or The View, as she works Monday through Friday. She saw Clay on The Early Show this morning and loved it.

She said she is going to Borders today to get two copies of the CD, one for herself and one for her sister. And another one bites the dust!

Classic, Traditional Pop Suits Aiken

If you haven't read Napster's review of Tried & True, Clay's fifth studio album, be sure to check out the link. Here is a portion of the article:

Of course there are some jumping big-band arrangements like "Mack the Knife" that swing convincingly, but Aiken's at his best when wrapping himself in a tender ballad and making it his own, as with "It's Impossible" (again, once a big hit for Perry Como—see where he's going with this?), "Unchained Melody," or "Moon River."

It may seem a little early in Aiken's career for an album of standards, considering how others from Linda Ronstadt to Rod Stewart and Barry Manilow have played it, but this move to classic, traditional pop (complete with '60s-style album art) really suits him.

And more important, it works.

Below are clickables of the opening graphic by Fountaindawg and the Saturday Morning Show screen caps by dancermom2:

Before I uploaded this blog at the new Clay Aiken fan club website, I decided I'd better check my mailbox. BEDANG if the temps in my house haven't fired up the ole thermostat because ...

MY CD ARRIVED TODAY!!!!!

Have a wonderful weekend, Clay Nation. And, Lawd Jesus, please send some cool air this way, LOL!

Caro

Clay Aiken's UM a Hot Topic

Clay Aiken sings 'Unchained Melody' on The View.
Watch on YouTube Download: UM Performance
Download: Interview and UM Performance

'Classy Key Change Slide'

Clay Aiken Adds Signature to UM

The Clay Nation aside, everybody everywhere seems to be talking, texting, tweeting about Clay Aiken's performance of "Unchained Melody" on 'The View' Wednesday.

Even the Examiner weighed in with props about the singer's "vocal skillz" in this treasure of a track from the new Tried & True Decca release which dropped Tuesday:

Today on The View, the ladies welcomed former American Idol star Clay Aiken on the show. He spoke with the hostesses and seemed to be continuing down the road of his career as a music artist.

After coming back from a commerical break, Clay Aiken performed the classic "Unchained Melody" for the audience, who swooned at his awesome vocal skillz.

Mosaic by LovesClaysVoice

I particularly like a musician's compliment on Ben Cohn's Facebook page about his orchestration and arrangement for the song:

Loving watching you on The View right now! Fantastic arrangement - did you do it? Really nice between the classical piano, the gorgeous strings, and then the almost military cadence from the drums.

Then the Sam Harris'esque (but so much classier) slide on the key change! Loved it.

Clay nails 'The Note' in UM performance. (Dancermom2 cap)

UM Feedback Proves Phenomenal

Clay's performance of "Unchained Melody" has easily been the hottest topic in town and not just on the message boards. Fans received amazing feedback from family, friends, and associates all day long.

The impact of Clay's beautiful rendition was also measured at Amazon and other venues selling T&T as the album climbed charts throughout the day. Clickable screencaps below are by Dancermom2, gerwhisp, and Cotton.

Here is a sampling of the water cooler moments Clay's performance set in motion:

K4Clay2: Just got a phone call from my "non-Clay fan" friend in Ohio. As soon as I answered the phone, she said "That was AWESOME!" She went on to say she had just seen Clay on "The View" and was completely captivated.

She said she had never heard him sing like that before and that he is gorgeous too! She was on her way out to look for his new CD. Another one bites the dust.

Tweet: Still the BEST, most crisp, lush voice out there. Just downloaded the new Clay Aiken album after listening to him on The View. Missed U, Clay!

me_myb: My adult kids don't follow Clay except for me. They enable me but really don't listen to him or care. But the most exciting thing just happened to me. My daughter texted me that she saw Clay on "The View." ("He did an awesome job! I taped it even!") This is huge!

brensmemaw: Last night I stopped at Barnes & Noble and bought one of their deluxe T&T CD's. I have two coming, but I just couldn't wait. After listening and watching, I took it to my hairdresser today. He loves Clay, and he and his partner are going with me to the Timeless Tour Concert in Biloxi.

He looked at the CD and said, "Oh, my favorite song in all the world - Unchained Melody!" I told him that he wouldn't believe Clay's version of it.

He immediately put it on the shop sound system and we listened to it. He couldn't believe it, and it was still playing when I left the shop.

neelie: Just got a text from my neighbor and best gal pal: "Saw your BF on The View this morning. He sang one of my faves, very well, too!

Promo Performance Raises Roof

snarkystripes: Yet ANOTHER co-worker is now listening to TNT on my iPod. She's listening to "Misty," and her head is now officially on her desk. Another one bites the dust.

shyeyewitness: I had a phone call last night from one of my customers that Clay was going to be on Joy Behar's Show, then one this morning from a different customer telling me he was on The View. Yesterday the husband of one of my customers told her, "Your hair stylist's boyfriend is on GMA."

cablegirl: Right after The View performance I had a business call so I couldn't post much more than "WOW!" While I was on the call, my cell phone rang and the caller left a message, which I retrieved when I was done.

The message was from my MIL, who has never said much about Clay. She is a country fan but always thought Clay was a nice guy.

She left me a message in tears telling me how beautiful UM was and how music had not moved her like that in a very long time and could I get her a copy of the CD.

I called her, and she cried again, saying, "Your boy is really good; I just never realized how good he is." I promised her I'd find her the CD as soon as possible.

Tweet: OMG!!! Clay Aiken on THE VIEW singing "Unchained Melody," and all the girls in my family are passing out on the floor. He's incredible!!!!!

joanie: I hope ABC called someone to repair the roof that was blown off this morning!

Buzz Sends 'T&T' Up Charts

Having spent 33 days in Amazon's Top 100, Tried & True (Deluxe) is currently #5 in Bestsellers in Pop, #1 in Vocal Pop, and #1 in Broadway & Vocalists. When this blog uploaded, the standard T&T CD was charting in the three categories at #14, #2, and #4, respectively.

Their stock depleted, brick and mortar stores are reportedly re-ordering CD's. Below are links to other ABC videos surround the Clay's visit at The View:

Clay Aiken 'Tried and True' (What's the Buzz, ABC, 6/2)
Clay and His iPad (Before The View, ABC, 6/2)
The View Exit Interviews (ABC, 6/2)

The promo train continues as Clay touts the Tried & True album and the Timeless Tour on various news broadcasts. The interview at Good Day Atlanta from WAGAFox - Clay Aiken Releases Fifth Studio Album - is followed by links to several others that occurred via satellite Thursday.

Clay Talks About CD, Tour Via Satellite

Fox31 Denver (scroll down)

KWGN Denver

Artisan News on YouTube

MyFoxDC

Fox59 Indianapolis

Fox40 Sacramento

June 5 Clay will appear on The Early Show Saturday Morning (CBS).

Happy Birthday to my Sis and good friend/former editor Paula! Have an awesome weekend, Clay Nation!

Caro

Clay Aiken CD Celebrates THE VOX

TRIED & TRUE - Graphic spotlights CD liner photos/Fountaindawg.

Aiken CD Captivates Fans

'T&T' Digital Downloads Take Off

The hills -- make that homes, offices, CD players, desktops, laptops, iPods, etc. -- are alive with the sound of Clay Aiken's out-of-this-world, new CD, Tried & True, only hours into its initial release week.

At the stroke of midnight (9 p.m. for those in the West), the digital gates of iTunes, Amazon, and other Internet musical portals released downloads of the singer's first album with Decca Records.

During the Memorial Day Weekend, several reviewers waxed poetic with very positive takes on the CD, some of which are shared below.

Even as clocks and video recorders were being set for Clay's Tuesday appearance on "Good Morning America," fans put sleep on the back burner to listen to the much-anticipated digital downloads of the incredible voice many fell for on the singer's 2003 American Idol season. Fans eagerly shared their first reactions with message board friends into the wee hours of a new work week.

In addition to Tuesday morning's appearance on Good Morning America, Clay will appear on The Joy Behar Show (CNN Headline News) at 9 p.m. ET Tuesday and The View (ABC) at 11 a.m. ET Wednesday, singing "Unchained Melody."

Clay's GMA interview and CTMEOOY performance Tuesday.
View ABC video on YouTube

Fans Label Clay's CD 'Exquisite'

So what are Clay Aiken fans saying about Tried & True? Early reactions from three message boards tell the story:

VoxAngelicus: Just finished listening to my iTunes pre-order. This CD is exquisite! There aren't enough superlatives to describe the beauty of Clay's voice and the instrumental arrangements. Thank you, Decca, and most of all, thank you, Clay, for these timeless gifts of song.

starbrite: OMG!!!! I just listened to the entire CD! It's AWESOME!!!! The songs I thought I wouldn't care for are turning out to be my favorites!!! I knew it was going to be fabulous but this has exceeded my expectations!!!

sutter4clay: Over the top incredible!!! Breathtaking!!! I'm spent; someone notify my next of kin.

Sally: After "What Kind of Fool Am I?", I had to plug my fan into the wall next to my computer desk and set it on high speed.

I listened to the last two tracks with my face down on the desk, the external speakers blasting into my ears and zinging through my entire body.

ianmom: Headphones on! Let's party!!!!

hunter: I am listening now. Every song I have heard so far is just beautiful. Sleep is over-rated!

Remy: It took the better part of an hour but OMG, what I've heard so far is stunning! "Crying" and "You Don't Have To Say You Love Me" have both made me cry. Every song I've listened to so far is a masterpiece in is own right.

Graphic of 'Tried & True' CD cover by SueReu

Beanblossom: West coast here - and Clay is now crooning in my ears. The CD is to die for. Clay is making me one happy woman (even though he STILL hasn't accepted my friend request [on the new fan board.]

Lucia (Brazil): Downloading now and very, very emotional because this is the first time I'll have Clay's music at the moment it is released. I cannot tell about the feeling I am feeling!

canuck2010: I LOVE YOU BAAAYBYYYY!!!

CravingClay: I have never heard anything so wonderful!!!

wandacleo: The sound is so intimate, perfect balance of vocals and orchestra. It sounds as though Clay's in the room singing with me.

caperkeeper: "What Kind of Fool Am I?" Clay's fool for sure! Simply Wonderful. "Make Believe" is so different and jazzy - love it!

Cotton: OMG, the last word of the entire album - BAY-beeeee. The beeee just whispered off into nothing like a feather drifting on air!

MaryJoanne123: There are no words. Every song is a masterpiece, and Clay at his very best. The orchestration and arrangements are WOW. DECCA does get Clay and what a great match!

'Tried & True' liner photos -- Graphic by Fountaindawg

roadnottaken: Finally, Decca and Clay have created an album where we hear that voice that we fell in love with seven years ago.

dancermom2: This CD is one long caress of his voice. It's magic.I have to get up at 4 am to get to GMA.I have to try to get some sleep!!!

maetwo: After each song I leaned forward in my chair to type some comment; then the next track began and I was lost for words. Don't remember breathing until that last, quiet bay-beeee faded away. This is one beautiful, beautiful production!!!

cindilu2: The booklet is smokin' hot. Hi-Res Super Cool Aiken. Noise-cancelling headphones in place. I don't think I'll be sleeping any time soon. Squeeeeeeeeeeeee!

I don't think I'm gonna be able to get past "What Kind of Fool." My fingers keep hitting repeat. I skipped to "Crying." And guess what? I am. Oh. My. And now I'm gonna lay down and listen to "Unchained" cuz it's so much easier than falling down.

Idyjocelyn: Oh man, this is SUBLIME. The entire thing. I remember many of us in the fandom clamoring for a recorded version of "Moon River" in 2003. So, it's seven years later and we have it. And it's perfect. The scary thing? I think this album will get better with age, like a fine wine.

Clayworthy: Online download purchases are not available in Singapore, but I was gifted with the i-Tunes downloads tonight, and I am now listening to that gorgeous voice.I will forever cherish this beautiful gift. An old soul he is but with a new twist - instituting and rendering his signature sound in each of these classic pieces. Thank you, Clay, for the sincere, heartfelt, and thankful message in your liner notes.

Brightstar: So many adjectives apply -- exquisite, sublime, awesome, velvety, artistic, incredible, beautiful, perfect, breathtaking yet also playful, fun, catchy, bouncy, And loving, yearning, joyful, passionate, moving, introspective, whimsical. It's an emotional journey!

jclay: I'm at work, but I'm not sure how I got here.

'Tried & True' liner photos - Graphic by Fountaindawg

MSNBC Awards CD 'Best Bet' Nod

Below are links and partial posts from two media reviews of the past weekend.

Each week MSNBC spotlights a "best bet" for various arts mediums. Tried & True is the network's best bet pick for new albums this week:

"American Idol" alum Clay Aiken has changed a lot since his days as a geeky contender on the show. He's starred on Broadway, worked as a UNICEF ambassador, come out as gay and become a father.

His new album, "Tried and True," takes a break from all the changes and features Aiken singing classic tunes, including "Mack the Knife," "Moon River" and "Unchained Melody." (Out on CD June 1.)

CD releases past and present. - Graphic by Fountaindawg

USA Today Applauds 'T&T' CD

Brian Mansfield of USA Today reviewed Tried & True, track by track. Quotes from his CD overview and top three picks, Clay Aiken, 'Tried & True': A track-by-track review, are included here:

Go to any estate sale with a stack of vinyl, and, invariably, you'll find a selection of singers whose music seems left behind by time and popular opinion, acts like Perry Como, Jack Jones, Andy Williams. These were the pop singers whose careers were the last bastions of adult resistance against the onslaught of rock 'n' roll. [snip]

During their day, they recorded prolifically and sold well, but -- with the exception of Johnny Mathis, whose ethereal, vibrato-laden voice seemed to drift in from another, dreamier universe -- any lasting impact on contemporary artists has proven to be the exception rather than the rule.

These are the acts to whom Clay Aiken pays tribute on Tried and True, his debut for Decca Records. Unlike Tony Bennett and Frank Sinatra, they weren't jazz singers at heart, though you could hear the vestiges of big-band music in their lavish arrangements. [snip]

FAVORITES: Unchained Melody, Moon River, It's Impossible

Unchained Melody. Another favorite from Clay's Idol run (sung the same night he did Mack the Knife), and, if you liked it then, you'll love it now, with its multiple modulations and a fully realized vocal performance from Clay that expresses yearning both tenderly and powerfully.

Moon River. Clay's version of Henry Mancini's Breakfast at Tiffany's classic begins with the motif from Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata, and Clay sings the first verse accompanied solely by piano. When you see Vince Gill's name on the bill for this one, you expect to hear his high harmonies (which would have blended beautifully with Clay's slightly darker tenor); instead, he contributes a lovely acoustic guitar solo.

It's Impossible. By the late '70s, this song, made famous by Perry Como, had become a punchline, thanks to a Steve Martin routine that parodied it -- "It's impossible ... to put a Cadillac up your nose." Most singers have considered the song off-limits since then, but Clay's sincere attempt revitalizes it somewhat, its arrangement highlighted by subdued strings, acoustic guitar and trumpet.

Be sure to read the comments. Representative are these remarks:

"First off, it's bursting with class. He is singing songs that have more gold than a gold mine."

"Clay and Decca are a match made in heaven. He found a label that knows what to do with his voice."

"These songs may no longer be current, but they endure and that's why several of them are considered standards."

CLICKABLE WALLPAPERS: Below are clickable wallpapers of this entry's T&T graphics by Fountaindawg (1, 3, 4, 5) and SueReu (2):

Having spent 31 days in Amazon's Top 100, Tried & True (deluxe) is currently #5 in Bestsellers in Pop, #1 in Vocal Pop, and #1 in Broadway & Vocalists.

Other reviews and links of interest include Front Stage (review), Express Night Out (review), and Just Jared (story, video, photos from GMA). Along with Amazon, these are excellent places for fans to write reviews.

Have a wonderful week, Clay Nation!

Caro

Clay Aiken, Fans Mark 7 Years

Clay Aiken - An Amazing Seven-Year Journey
Montage by SueReu at Yahoo Video
Download with Sendspace: Yahoo version or Higher quality

May 20, 2003 Anniversary

Clay Nation Celebrates Journey

May 20, 2003, the memorable American Idol 2 finale when Clay Aiken came in second to Ruben Studdard for the title, is celebrated not only as an anniversary of beginnings for the singer's many musical accomplishments and charitable endeavors but also for the bond between entertainer and fans and the close friendships formed among faithful followers worldwide.

SueReu's "Seven Year Journey" montage portrays in song and video the millions of CDs sold, countless television and tour appearances, a foundation dedicated to inclusion for all children, a UNICEF ambassadorship, and a star turn in the Broadway hit "Spamalot" since May 2003.

On June 1, Clay will release "Tried and True," his fifth studio album and the first with Decca Records, followed closely by a 17-city July-August "Timeless Tour" with Ruben, and his first PBS Special to be telecast in August.

Amazing Journey montage screen cap - SueReu

On the May 20 anniversary, Mamarose10 posted the perfect accompaniment to the "Seven-Year" montage. With her permission, it is shared below:

The Anomaly ... Just the Beginning!

And so it began ... seven years ago tonight! Well, in truth, it began when a young man named Clayton Holmes Aiken stepped up to a mic at the beginning of American Idol Season 2 and sang that first word.

But for many of us, seven years ago tonight was our "galvanization," as it were. After the results were read on that fateful night in 2003, which would come to be known as "The Anomaly," everything truly did begin.

After that night we stumbled together, sought each other out, many in shock and disbelief, still reeling and stunned and in need of solace. We came together to commiserate and cry and moan and shake our fists at the fates and unfairness.

But what is most important is that WE CAME TOGETHER. The shock had indeed galvanized us, startled us into the activity that would make us who we are as Clay fans and forge a bond between us and the young man who had won our hearts, a prize far more important than any American Idol title would ever be.

The shock of that night would be the catalyst to all that the Clay Nation would become.

The shock of that night would strengthen our resolve to right that wrong and any future wrongs to come.

The shock of that night would prepare us for all that the next years would bring. It would stiffen our spines and solidify our resolve. In looking back, I feel no sadness about that night. In fact, I think I am grateful in many ways. I truly believe all things happen for a reason.

Now our hearts are tried and tested and we know the truth, and we are still here.

As the Chicago song goes, it was "Only the beginning of what I want to feel forever. Only the beginning. Only just the start ..."

Graphic by Fountaindawg

Billboard Reviews T&T

Billboard has virtually put a stamp of approval on Clay's change of direction with the "Tried & True" CD. Here is the review on Yahoo News where those who agree can "buzz it up":

NEW YORK (Billboard) – After a series of so-so soft-rock efforts, Season 2 "American Idol" runner-up Clay Aiken looks back to the music of the ’50s and ’60s on “Tried & True,” a big-band-style collaboration with German producer Alex Christensen, whose resume includes work with Paul Anka, Sarah Brightman and Right Said Fred.

Given the cabaret-ready character of Aiken’s voice, the change in direction suits the singer. Where he used to sound like an oldster attempting to crash the top 40, here Aiken’s vocals exude a relaxed vibe that seemingly reflects his recent stint on Broadway in "Spamalot!"

That even goes for a surprisingly authoritative version of "Mack the Knife," where Aiken summons a swagger he never previously displayed. Other songs include "Moon River" (with a tasty acoustic-guitar solo by Vince Gill), a jazzy take on Conway Twitty’s "It’s Only Make Believe" and "Unchained Melody," which gets the full Hollywood-orchestra treatment.

T&T News of Note

Decca Records has uploaded the tracks for the DVD that will be released on July 27. See Tried & True DVD:

1. Mack The Knife 03:38
2. Can't Take My Eyes Off You 04:50
3. It's Impossible 04:12
4. You Don't Have To Say You Love Me 04:13
5. Eso Beso 03:46
6. Who's Sorry Now 03:52
7. I'll Take Romance 02:13
8. Breaking Up Is Hard To Do 03:13
9. Misty 04:18
10. What Kind Of Fool Am I? 03:41
11. Crying 04:59
12. Suspicious Minds 03:50
13. Build Me Up Buttercup [Live] 02:59
14. In My Life 03:38
15. It's Only Make Believe 03:18
16. There's A Kind Of Hush 03:03
17. Unchained Melody 05:31
18. Moon River 04:12

Amazon has posted previews of the Tried & True CD tracks. The 'Tried & True' CD already has a page on Wikipedia.

Below is a clickables of SueReu's 'Journey' screen cap and the graphic by Fountaindawg:

RECITAL COUNTDOWN: The polished performances at Friday's final day of lessons prior to the spring recital Sunday hinted that all will be well. Students range from first timers to seasoned veterans, but one never knows for sure the effect of whimsical butterflies.

Marianhookailo, a member of Clayonline and a professional singer, sent this message to my piano and violin students:

There is nothing like playing musical instruments together and hearing the beauty you give to the listeners. Keep up the good work!

Tune in for Sunday's recap. Have a wonderful weekend, Clay Nation!

Caro

Clay Aiken CD Buzz Goes Global

ALBUM PHOTO -- Clay Aiken and the American Tobacco Campus train in Durham, NC, are featured in the first official release from the CD shoot. Photo by Vincent Soyez/graphic by Fountaindawg.

Clay Aiken: Tried & True

CD Photo, Track List Excite Fans

The excitement stemming from Friday's revelation of the first official photo from the Clay Aiken "Tried & True" CD shoot escalated Sunday with an expanded deluxe track list at Amazon, adding "Breaking Up Is Hard To Do" and bringing the album's song total to 13.

The first event has naturally inspired an outpouring of new designs from graphic artists among Clay Aiken fans. The second added a new song, as well as information about participating musicians on the the much-anticipated album scheduled to be released June 1 by Decca Records.

Amazon Deluxe Track List

1. Can't Take My Eyes Off You
2. What Kind Of Fool Am I? (featuring jazz saxophonist David Sanborn)
3. It's Only Make Believe
4. Misty
5. Mack The Knife
6. It's Impossible
7. Unchained Melody
8. Suspicious Minds
9. Crying (duet with Linda Eder)
10. There's A Kind Of Hush
11. Moon River (featuring Vince Gill)
12. Who's Sorry Now
13. Breaking Up Is Hard To Do

Fountaindawg's opening graphic of Vincent Soyez's train picture is posted below as clickable regular and wide screen wallpapers:

Cotton's designs of the Vincent Soyez photo shoot picture will enlarge with a click.

T&T photo by Vincent Soyez (Graphic by Cotton)


T&T photo by Vincent Soyez (Graphic by Cotton)

'Tried & True' Scores at Decca Site

The interest in Clay's upcoming CD is reflected in the number of visits to the Decca Records Community.

For example, "Tried & True" is currently #2 on the most viewed products list. #1 is the "Mama Mia!" movie soundtrack. Other top 5 albums have tracks available, and CA fans look forward to the the day "T&T" joins the ranks.

Join the Decca site, and you can post T&T reviews are added at the album link. A map of the Timeless Tour is featured under the Events tab on Clay's page.

Among the suggested albums on Clay's page is Here And Gone by David Sanborn, the featured saxophonist on "Tried & True."

Aiken Photo Promotes B&N Nook

Whether your preference is Kindle, Sony, or Nook, the e-reader most discussed on CA message boards this weekend has been the latter. A photo of the singer taken at Golfing for Inclusion in February is being used to promote the Barnes & Noble e-reader:

CLAY AIKEN AT THE NATIONAL INCLUSION PROJECT - Just before the start of a National Inclusion event held in Florida, singer and actor Clay Aiken stole a few moments backstage to catch up on a little bit of reading on his nook. Clay is a co-founder of the National Inclusion Project.

Cotton's graphic of the photo is clickable:

Barnes & Noble graphic by Cotton

145 Countries Dot 'Carolina' Map

Though unscientific, indicators of Clay's worldwide popularity appear daily in the Carolina blog's ClustrMap and Feedjit Live Feed, which register home countries of this site's visitors. Since December 2007, residents of 145 nations have dropped by this corner of the Internet for the latest Clay Aiken news.

New countries since December 2009 include Iraq (Asia); Tunisia, Mauritania, Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, and Angola (Africa); Macedonia, Cyprus, and Armenia (Europe); Saint Kitts and Nevis, Netherlands Antilles, and Nicaragua (North America). Average daily visitors register between 100-500.

WORLDWIDE - Clay Aiken fans span the globe. (Carolina ClustrMap)

The 145 countries representing all continents but Antarctica suggest Clay's fanbase is definitely global with a possible worldwide tour in the offing.

ASIA: Guam, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Micronesia, Oman, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Qatar, Republic of Korea, Taipei, Taiwan, Vietnam, Pakistan, Iran, Bahrain, Kuwait, Azerbaijan (Baku), Bangladesh, Cambodia, Mongolia, China, Sri Lanka, Lebanon, Maldives, Palestinian Territory, Brunei Darussalam, Asia/Pacific Region, Jordan, Nepal, Yemen; Iraq

AFRICA: South Africa, Egypt, Morocco, Madagascar, Seychelles, Somalia, Kenya, Nigeria, Mozambique, Algeria, Uganda, Mauritius, Burkina Faso, Tunisia, United Republic of Tanzania, Djibouti, Angola, Cote D'Ivoire, Ghana, Congo, Tunisia, Mauritania, Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, Angola

Thumbnail Carolina ClustrMap
Click to view larger version.

EUROPE: Austria, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Sweden, Romania, Scotland, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Bulgaria, Belgium, Poland, Russian Federation, Luxembourg, Slovakia, Croatia, Serbia, Ukraine, Turkey, Malta, Georgia, Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sicilia, Andorra, Latvia, European Union, Moldova, Albania, Kazakstan, Macedonia, Cyprus, Armenia

NORTH AMERICA: Canada, Costa Rica, El Salvador, United States, Mexico, Panama, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Bermuda, Saint Lucia, Guatemala, Nassau, Bahamas, Grenada, Trinidad and Tobago, Dominican Republic, Anguilla, Honduras, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Netherlands Antilles, Nicaragua

SOUTH AMERICA: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela, Ecuador, Bolivia

AUSTRALIA: Australia, New Zealand, Tasmania, Solomon Islands

Have a wonderful week, Clay Nation!

Caro

For more information on the "Tried and True" photo shoot, see the March 28 Carolina entry: Diary Details Clay Aiken Shoot.

Clay Aiken To Bring Broadway Home

Clay Aiken performs on Raleigh stage. AP Photo/Jim R. Bounds

Dancers To Benefit Inclusion

NC Theatre Slates Fundraiser

Clay Aiken will be among five featured performers for "Bringing Broadway Home," June 21 fundraiser for the North Carolina Theatre Group. Subscriber tickets for the musical evening at Raleigh Memorial Auditorium got underway yesterday with general seating set for Monday, April 19.

In addition to Singer Man, the benefit concert celebrating 27 seasons of Broadway at the NC Theatre will star Lauren Kennedy, Sharon Lawrence, Terrance Mann, and Quiana Parler. Brief bios of all five are printed below.

Tuesday afternoon WRAL's Out and About column and Playbill posted stories promoting the NC Theatre benefit. Broadway World is also featuring the release, Aiken Joins Broadway Stars for NC Theathre Concert:

North Carolina Theatre, the region's only producer of professional Broadway musical revivals, announces "Bringing Broadway Home," a spectacular benefit concert on Monday, June 21st at 8 PM in Raleigh Memorial Auditorium at the Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Raleigh.

This one-night-only event will celebrate 27 seasons of Broadway at North Carolina Theatre and will feature Clay Aiken, Lauren Kennedy, Sharon Lawrence, Terrence Mann and Quiana Parler.

Clay Aiken is a multi-platinum recording artist and is set to release his sixth album, Tried and True, this summer.

Since his meteoric rise to fame on the hit TV show American Idol in 2003, Aiken has launched eight tours, authored a New York Times best-selling book called Learning to Sing: Hearing the Music in Your Life, starred on Broadway in Monty Python's Spamalot, and has guest starring roles in TV's Scrubs, 30 Rock, and Saturday Night Live.

Before all of these accomplishments and more, Aiken performed on the North Carolina Theatre stage in Shenandoah and 1776 in 1996.

Theatre Benefit Flier

Cotton, a Clay Aiken fan from North Carolina, outlined the following plan for those who would like to secure tickets during this week's NCT membership pre-sale. Pricing is shown on the double-clickable flier above.

For the subscriber membership, you can buy two of the three shows offered in the Mini Pack (Cinderella, Annie, Little Shop of Horrors). You have to order tickets for specific shows and locations (i.e., Sun Aug 1 2PM, Mezz).

If you choose weeknights and balcony, you can become a subscriber for $100 or so plus fees. A weekend ticket subscription comes to around $120. I was able to buy eight benefit tickets Tuesday morning with no problem.

NC Theatre on Facebook suggests: Call 919-831-6941 x6943 or x6944. Hurry - tickets are going FAST!

Benefit To Celebrate 27 Seasons

Abbreviated bios and clickable photos of the five featured NC Theatre fundraiser performers are printed below. Their benefit concert will celebrate the theatre's 27 seasons. The above flier is double clickable.

Clay Aiken

CLAY AIKEN, a Raleigh native, rose to fame in 2003 as the runner-up on the second season of American Idol. The multi-platinum singer has recorded five albums with RCA Records; and his first CD with Universal Decca, "Tried and True," is scheduled for release June 1.

Aiken has launched eight North American tours and performed on a variety of holiday, comedy, and talk shows on television. His 2008 Broadway debut as Sir Robin in Monty Python's Spamalot received rave reviews from audiences and critics alike.

The singer won honors in North Carolina when he performed "This Is The Moment" from Jekyll and Hyde. In 1996, he performed on the NC Theatre stage in Shenandoah and 1776.

Lauren Kennedy

LAUREN KENNEDY, a native of Raleigh, is an actress and singer who has performed many roles on Broadway. She most recently originated the role Off-Broadway at Second Stage last summer.

Among her Broadway roles include Lady of the Lake in "Spamalot," Fantine in "Les Miserables," and Betty Schaefer in "Sunset Blvd." Kennedy is a member of the Board of Directors at The North Carolina Theatre, an Artistic Advisor at Farmer’s Alley Theatre, and Producing Artistic Director at Hot Summer Night’s at The Kennedy.

Sharon Lawrence

SHARON LAWRENCE, a seasoned stage actress, Sharon Lawrence was recently nominated for an Ovation Award and won the LA Drama Critics Circle Award for her acclaimed performance as Vivian Leigh in Pasadena Playhouse’s Off-Broadway hit "Orson’s Shadow." Her last Broadway appearance was as Velma Kelly in "Chicago."

Among her many TV credits are NYPD Blue, Desperate Housewives, Monk, Law and Order:SUV, Grey’s Anatomy, and Curb Your Enthusiasm. She will star in a new comedy pilot for CBS entitled Hitched.

Terrence Mann

TERRENCE MANN made his big break-through in the original Broadway cast of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats, playing the lead role of Rum Tum Tugger. Other Broadway performances include Javert in the original Broadway cast of Les Miserables, Beast in Beauty and the Beast, and Chauvelin in The Scarlet Pimpernel.

Mann is currently playing the role of Mal Beineke in The Addams Family, which opened on Broadway on April 8.

Quiana Parler

QUIANA PARLER, a native of Charleston, SC, began her professional career singing for Calvin Gilmore of the "The Carolina Opry." In 2003 she parlayed a Top 48 placement on American Idol Season 2 into touring vocalist with Clay Aiken.

Parler's vocals can be heard on albums by Clay, Bianca Ryan, and Renee Olstead. She has recorded with some of the industry’s most respected producers and performed on numerous national television programs. She debuted in 2008 as Effie in the NC Theatre production of Dreamgirls.

After years on the road, the singer has returned home and assembled an incredible group of players and singers. Quiana Parler and Friends is an exciting, interactive band, a group with deep-rooted musical sophistication and an extremely diverse song list that travels throughout the USA and abroad.

Celebs Dance for Inclusion Project

In an annual benefit for the Foundation, the National Inclusion Project and A Step to Gold International Ballroom will co-host Dancing Like the Stars at Raleigh's Southern Women's Show on April 25.

Local celebrity participants have been practicing with their professional dance partners to provide great entertainment for the show attendees. Bios of the celebrity participants and their dance partners, as well as each couple's practice video, are provided here.

DLTS participants include Renee Chou (weekend morning anchor/reporter for WRAL-TV) and Dan Barber; Billy Dukes (music director/night DJ at 94.7 WQDR) and Kay Truitt; Scott Fitzgerald (WPTF 680AM radio personality, author, playright) and Melanie Dale; Bill Reh (meteorologist for NBC-17) and Amanda Shannon; Tina Seldin-Cash (WRAL TV) and Mike Gepner.

After watching the practice videos, use this link to vote for your favorite couple and make a donation to the National Inclusion Project. Every dollar donated will count as a vote towards the contestant of your choice (minimum online bid of $10).

Donations are 100 percent tax deductible. Voting will end at 11:59 EDT Saturday, April 24.

A MUSICAL STROLL - Founaindawg's latest graphic highlights Clay Aiken's six RCA albums and the much anticipated June 1 release with Decca, "Tried & True."

Fans on TNT Snippet Alert

Clocks have slowed to Larghissimo and Lenton assai tempi as time draws near for Amazon to post snippets of the upcoming "Tried & True" CD tracks. You can bet CA fans are staying in close contact with sites that will soon reveal smidgens of the new album's songs.

Another safe bet would be the Clay Aiken page at Decca Records.

Animation by gerwhisp

Larghissimo and Lento assai are slower than Largo, Lento, and Grave. I know I'm ready for the Vivace, Vivacissimo, and Vivacissimamente variety. How about you?

Below is a clickable of Fountaindawg's wallpaper:

Have a great week, Clay Nation!

Caro