Owner: Paisano URL:http://thepaisano.blogspot.com Join Date: Sat, 01 Mar 2008 16:26:04 -0600 Rating:0 Site Description: Paisano shares his favorite music, movies, books and more to show the best aspects of life. Site statistics:Click here
Wazzup! 2008-03-08 19:34:13 Budweiser's True commercial campaign was a hilarious and infectious marketing phenomenon! It was a prime example of viral marketing in its most powerful form. People loved it and couldn't wait to share it with their friends and so on. It's been many years but people old enough still remember the original series of commercials as well as all of the countless clones it spawned! Here are my favorites:1. The Original that started it all.2. The Wasabi sequel3. The honky version that was extremely clever and painfully true!4. The Jewish edition5. Granny edition (false teeth version)6. The SuperFriend's version
The Last Lecture 2008-03-08 19:28:53 Randy Pausch's "Last Lecture" is an experience that will change your life forever. He's the professor from Carnegie Mellon University that is dying of pancreatic cancer. The "Last Lecture" that he gave to his class has become the stuff of legends and deservedly so. Much like the lessons that Morrie taught us in "Tuesday with Morrie", Randy shakes us all to our inner core with an eye-opening and heart-wrenching talk about the meaning of life, not death. He talks about dreams and love and the joys of living life to the fullest. It is an unbelievably moving experience so brace yourself. Randy has published a book called "The Last Lecture" which chronicles his amazing life. Here's his website. Here's the transcript. Here is the full Oprah show which includes a 12-minute scaled down version of
Fields of Gold 2008-03-02 23:18:40 Eva Cassidy is probably the best singer you've never heard of before. She tragically died in 1996 at the age of 33 before ever really achieving major success, so her name is not a common household name. However, those who have heard her voice will never forget her. I have to admit that I did not know that she had passed away until tonight! I've been a fan of her music for years and yet somehow never knew that she was no longer with us.I first fell in love with her music in 2002 during the winter olympics in salt Lake City when Michelle Kwan skated to Eva Cassidy's version of Sting's "Fields
of Gold". I remember how beautiful her voice was and how haunting the arrangement was. The entire performance was amazing because Kwan had just lost another shot at the gold medal and obviously still em
ageless rockers 2008-03-02 00:11:16 I watched a cool special on PBS where acts from the 60s performed their hits (most of them in their 60s themselves!). It was so wild seeing them young in video clips and then today performing live. Their bodies might've aged but their hearts are forever young thanks to music.Here's Peter and Gordon from 1964 and then over 40 years later.
49 Up 2008-02-28 23:00:14 The Seven UP Documentary Series is an amazing experience that is entertaining, informative and thoroughly engaging. It is a collection of seven documentaries that follow the lives of 14 British children every seven years from the age of seven to 49 in the most recent release. The premise of the film was taken from the Jesuit motto "Give me a child until he is seven and I will give you the man," which is based on a quote by Francis Xavier.It is fascinating to see the these adorable little children on the playground talk about their hopes and dreams and then instantly cut forward seven years, fourteen years, twenty one years and so on. It is amazing to see how some of the boys and girls had a keen sense of what they were going to be when they grew up while others were totally clueless. I th
Derek Redmond: Olympic Champion of the Heart 2008-02-27 23:07:24 I will never forget DerekRedmond
and what he did in the 1992 Olympic
s. No, he did not win the Gold medal, nor any medal for that matter. He shouldn't even have finished the race because of a blown hamstring, but his heart and determination prevented him from giving up and thus a legend was born. He limped across the finish line with his father by his side. It's still an emotional experience whenever I watch the footage of that race. How can you not be moved by those images? It's been over 15 years and I still think of his courage and heart from time to time. He might not have the hardware like so many other champions, but he's won a spot in the history of sports and humanity. He will never be forgotten. What a true inspirationHere is an excellent ESPN article on the story:Video Recap of t Read more:Heart
When David Slew Goliath (Chang vs Lendl) 2008-02-26 23:24:55 Michael Chang
was just elected into the tennis hall of fame (1/23/08). It's an amazing accomplishment when you consider all that he had to overcome in his career. He was never blessed with any of the god-given talent or ability that many of his rivals possed and he was almost always the smallest/shortest player in his matches. Still, he managed to climb to the peak of his sport thanks to his incredible work ethic, unrelenting determination and awe-inspiring heart. No one hustled more than Michael Chang, period. The first thought that pops into any tennis fan's mind whenever we hear the name Michael Chang is the 1989 French Open champtionship that he won. It is considered one of the biggest upsets and greatest underdog performances in sports history. What he accomplished transcended sports Read more:David
, Goliath
Black and White Movies 2008-02-25 23:28:10 Here are some of the best movies with a focus on the african-american experience that I've ever seen. It is my hope that everyone sees these classic films because they make you a better person, but it's especially important that caucasions watch them. Why? Well, they are not only wonderful stories but they also present african-americans realistically on film which was extremely rare in the early years of cinema.The honest, sympathetic and positive portrayal of African-americans in film and entertainment was just as important as what Jackie Robinson did for race relations with his excellence in the sports world. One of the watershed moments was when Hattie McDaniel won the Academy Awards in 1939 for Gone with the Wind. She was also the first black woman to ever sing on national radio. Howev Read more:Black
, White
The Eloquent Man 2008-02-25 15:52:45 I have always loved these words. They are simple and yet so powerful. They become extra special when you consider the source, the man who wrote and spoke them. Here it is.... "'Tis true my form is something odd,but blaming me is blaming god.Could I create myself anew,I would not fail in pleasing you.Was I so tall, could reach the pole,or grasp the ocean with a span;I would be measured by the soul.The mind's the standard of the man."a poem often quoted by Joseph Carey MerrickA.K.A. The Elephant Man The Elephant Man's life story has always fascinated me. It's sad that John Merrick has become forever linked to a punchline involving Michael Jackson because his life deserves much more than that.Instead, we should remember him by these beautiful words and the lessons they teach us all. Beauty is
You ARE home 2008-02-24 08:10:39 Here's a scene from "Almost Famous" that occurs smack dab in the middle of the movie. To me, it's one of my favorite movie moments ever. It is not only fun to watch but there are some wonderful nuggets of wisdom enfused in the scene. It's amazing that there can be such life lessons crammed in a short couple of minutes in a movie.In a nutshell, the movie centers around a teenage boy who follows a rock band on tour as a reporter for Rolling Stone. It is based on a true story that the director Cameron Crowe (Jerry McGuire) actually experienced as a young man who followed bands like The Allman Brothers Band, Led Zeppelin, and Lynyrd Skynyrd and actually wrote for Rolling Stone.The scene begins when the band members all board the bus in disappointment and anger with their lead singer who nearly
Breakfast at Tiffany's 2008-02-22 10:54:01 Breakfast
at Tiffany
's is another one of my favorite movies. It isn't just because I'm a huge Audrey Hepburn fan (though that's a major part of it), but mostly because everything about the movie was wonderful. Starting from the very beginning with Henry Mancini's timeless "Moonriver" and the scenes of Audrey roaming the deserted streets of New York City in the early 1960s. I also loved George Peppard who was never better than he was in this role as a kept man and struggling writer who finally meets the woman of his dreams. The story behind the movie is just as interesting as it was written by Truman Capote with Marilyn Monroe in mind for the Holly Golightly lead role. As much as I loved Marilyn, I think no one could've done it better than Audrey. Here are some scenes from this classic mov
Hope is a good thing 2008-02-21 22:48:18 Even though the movie Shawshank Redemption came out in 1994, it still remains ever present for me. Yes, the movie and the performances were incredible, but the music and the way it enhanced every scene created a legendary and memorable experience for me. Thomas Newman is my favorite composer today and this was his greatest achievement. Listen carefully to the subtly when a scene needs it or the majestic exhuberance when that's what is needed. He is a master and this movie was his opera. The most powerful theme of the movie is HOPE. It's what keeps the main character alive and prevents him from going insane. It's like a modern parable of Job from the bible who endured all kinds of pain and angush but never lost faith or hope. it is truly an inspirational experience and a must see movie,
The Musician's Heart 2008-02-21 18:44:06 My brother is living proof that true musicians play music their entire lives no matter what. He's a family man with several kids and owns his own successful audio and home automation business but still makes the time to practice with his band and perform live gigs on a regular basis! He doesn't do it for the fame or fortune, just for the thrill and satisfaction of sharing his love of music with people. Period.I truly believe that he has only improved with time which is amazing when you think about it. Most talents or activities erode and decline with time but not so with music. I think it keeps you forever young as well. I also admire his determination to never give up his dream of playing music. He has told me that he will always play no matter what happens in life. I am so proud of my li Read more:Heart
, Musician
Best Quality Heart 2008-02-20 19:31:27 Amy Tan's classic story of "The Joy Luck Club" is a wonderfully moving experience that stays with you forever. It reveals so much about the dynamic and mysterious relationship between mothers and daughters, no matter what nationality or culture. I think the lessons learned can also apply for the relationship with sons as well so the story is not just meant for women. It is one of my all-time favorite books and movies. I can never watch the movie without being moved intensely. Each of the mother-daughter stories reveal tremendous amounts of truth and emotion. The Joy Luck Club is indeed a life-changing experience. Here's a clip from one scene that shows how powerful and magical this story is. The daughter finally tells her mother how she feels about the fact that she turned out to be a fail Read more:Heart
, Quality
The Seven Year Itch 2008-02-19 21:48:56 Here is the Video of that german politician who actually wants to propose a new law that would limit all marriages to seven years at which time the couple would have the option to renew the license for another seven years or let it expire! Talk about scratching a seven year itch! Zoiks!!! What do you think of this? I guess it's like the subject matter of prenuptial agreements. Some think prenups kill the romance, others consider it vital. Here's the News Item and an interesting Article. Read more:Seven
Motherhood will change your life 2008-02-18 19:50:34 I've been a dad for almost a decade and proud to have been blessed with three angelic babies in that span. I still get choked up when I read this piece that I'm about to share with you. The message and meaning becomes deeper and more profound as the years go by, especially if you do indeed become a parent. (Image by Tamara Trejo ) by Dale Hanson Bourke Time is running out for my friend. We are sitting at lunch when she casuallymentions that she and her husband are thinkingof "starting a family." What she means is that herbiological clock has begun its countdown and sheis considering the prospect of motherhood. "We're taking a survey," she says, half jokingly."Do you think I should have a baby?" "It will change your life," I say carefully. "I know," she says. "No more sleeping in on Sat Read more:Motherhood
Loving Two 2008-02-18 12:16:08 I have always loved this piece called "Loving
Two" by an unknown author. I was moved when I first read it many years ago long before I became a parent and it touches me even more today now that I have three children. I understand it so much more now. It is such a profound and emotional experience to be blessed with one child and all the more so when you fortunate enough to have more. What you never expect and what shocks you is how you start to feel a little guilty about having to spend more time and love on the new addition to the family because it means taking time and attention away from the previous child. In time you realize that your capacity to love is far greater than you ever realized before. You don't love your partner and other children less, just differently. I am writing a pie
No title 2008-02-17 11:23:05 Solid Gold TalentThey sure don’t make ‘em like that anymore! Solid Gold was TV show from 1980 to 1989 that featured the "solid gold dancers" (see photo) that performed jaw-dropping, awe-inspiring choreography for the top songs that week. OK, I might be exaggerating a tad there. I think it helped young men get thru puberty if you ask me. When a young unknown named Arsenio Hall started hosting the show the writing was on the wall for its demise.My favorite dancer was Deborah Jensen the brunette in the middle of the photo and starts the video off. No one gave a more sultry glare than she did.Here she is along with the rest of her prancing cohorts.
American Midol 2008-02-16 20:46:57 I've been a fan of American
Idol since day one and I've been enjoying season seven a great deal. However, the news I just read is giving the producers a major headache and has left a sour taste in my mouth. I can't believe what is going on this season. A major controversy among the fans is brewing regarding the contestants who made the final 24. It even involves some of my favorite performers such as the adorable 16 year old David. Yahoo's Music Blog started the controvery with this Valentine's Day present about Carly Smithson/Hennessy. They then added more fuel to the fire with this information:On American Idol, Simon, Paula and Randy whittled it down to the final 24 contestants Wednesday night, and some of their casting decisions caused more controversy than Amy, Natalie, and Aretha comb
Cheap Trick's 30th Anniversary @ Budakon! 2008-02-15 21:00:16 Can you believe it will be 30 years since the landmark live concert and album by CheapTrick
At Budokan?!!! They will be playing there again on the anniversary date 4/24/08!I firmly believe that this is the best live album ever recorded, period. Sorry Peter Frampton, Bruce, Led Zep, etc. etc.Here's a taste to wet your whistle:Here's the same song performed 29 years later (2007) Read more:Anniversary
, Cheap Trick
New Soul (Mac Book Air theme) 2008-02-15 19:22:58 New Soul by Yael NaimArtist: Yael NaimAlbum: Yaël NaimYear: 2007Title: New Soul Print Correct Get New Soul ringtone on your mobile!I'm a new soul I came to this strange world hoping I could learn a bit about how to give and take. But since I came herefelt the joy and the fearfinding myself making every possible mistake la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la... I'm a young soul in this very strange world hoping I could learn a bit about what is true and fake. But why all this hate? Try to communicate. Finding trust and love is not always easy to make. la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la... This is a happy end cause' you don't understand everything you have done why's everything so wrong this is a happy end come and give me your hand I'll take your far away. [Refrain]: I'm a new soul I came to this strange world h Read more:Mac Book
No title 2008-02-15 06:24:56 Romeo and Juliet in Sarajevo Valentine's Day will be here in a couple of days so all thoughts are on all things sweet and romantic. Well, those thoughts were interrupted this morning by a tweet from a friend (@driveafastercar ) who shared a heartbreaking news item about the bride who died during her first dance at her wedding reception. I am still numb thinking about the husband and how he felt when his new lovely bride died in his arms. It is just unbelievable. It makes you think deeply about things and appreciate everything all the more. All this soul searching reminded me of another heart-wrenching tragedy from many years ago. I can't believe it's been almost fifteen years since the sad story of what they called the Romeo and Juliet of Sarajevo. For those of you who don't recall or
Forgiveness 2008-02-14 22:46:41 Here's a great song called "Forgiveness
" by Jim Witter that really makes you realize how stupid and cruel it is to hold onto grudges and not forgive those people who have hurt us.Here are the words:Forgiveness (J.Witter/B. Tomberlin) Little Mickey Johnson was my very best friend In first grade we swore we’d stay that way to the end But in seventh grade somebody stole my bike I asked Mickey if he knew who did it, and he lied Cause it was him… And when I found out it hit me like a ton of bricks And I can still see that look on his face when I said “I never want to talk to you again” Sometimes we lose our way We don’t say things we should say We hold on to stubborn pride When we should put it all aside To waste the time we’re given seems so senseless And one little word shouldn’
Synthetic Beauty 2008-02-14 11:02:35 The old adage, "Beauty
is in the eye of the beholder" is so true. When it comes to the entertainment industry, looking good is paramount when it comes to the success of their careers. At least that is the mentality of the majority of celebrities and the powers that be. Does it even matter how "natural" or "synthetic" beauty is these days? In general, the public doesn't seem care how their favorite celebrity got to look the way they do. Does anyone really give a flip that Tom Cruise has a much better nose than he had when his career started? Did anyone even notice that Enrique Iglesias burned off that massive mole from his face? Ultimately, it shouldn't matter because at the end of the day talent and skills will prevail most of the time. Sometimes you just can't stop lady luck. Some people Read more:Synthetic
Vienna Waits for You 2008-03-15 11:22:14 "13 Going on 30" is an underrated movie. Jennifer Garner and Mark Ruffalo were wonderfully delightful in this gem. She plays the 13-year old girl who becomes 30 overnight which is a silly over-done premise but the way they tell the story and the performances truly make this a joy to watch. What could've been awful becomes a funny and even touching story thanks to moments like this scene where Jennifer realizes that she doesn't want to be a grown up anymore and wants to be a kid again. Don't we all feel that way sometimes? The song they selected for this sequence was absolutely perfect and makes it a memorable scene. I like when she goes to the house she grew up in and sees her old room. So emotional, especially when she sees her parents. Billy Joel's "Vienna
" says it all! Read more:Waits
Just a Dog 2008-03-15 15:09:26 Spike was a min-pin (miniature doberman pincher) that didn't get the memo that he wasn't a full-sized doberman. He got so sick at the end that I had to take him to the vet to put him down. Now I'm a big tough Italian man so I thought it wouldn't be that tough so off we went. I rationalized that it would end his pain. As the vet injected Spiker I held him and our eyes locked. I couldn't believe how emotional it became for me. A grown man for goodness sakes!Spike finally relaxed and fell asleep forever and I managed to keep my composure. I remember being numb all the way home and finally crying as I got home knowing he wouldn't be there to jump on me as I walked through the door. Here's a poem I wrote that same day. How could I have felt so much for Spike? I mean, he was just a dog. Wasn't h
Lust for Life 2008-03-18 23:00:21 I've always loved Vincent van Gogh, but not just for the beautiful paintings he created. I've always been amazed by his life story and how he was able to create such wonderful works of art in the midst of such severe pain and torture. What a true inspiration he is to all of us.Don McClain's "Vincent (Starry Starry Night)" has always been one of my favorite songs. He totally captures the essense of Van Gogh. It was such a surreal experience the first time I ever heard this song because it seemed to express everything I always felt for Vincent. It's still such an emotional song for me. Here's the music video of the song which shows many of Van Gogh's incredible work.As far as the best movie portrayal of Van Gogh it clearly has to be "Lust for Life (1956)" with Kirk Douglas in a tour de force
Father of Mine 2008-03-17 21:24:59 "Father
of Mine" by EverClear is a special song for me because it truly hits home for me. I relate to the words so much because our father left our mom with four sons and I never really got to know him. The part that gets me the most is "I was just scared white boy in a black neighborhood" because we grew up in Newark, New Jersey.The other part that really touches me is this part of the song I will never be safeI will never be saneI will always be weird insideI will always be lameNow Im a grown manWith a child of my ownAnd I swear I'm not going to let her knowAll the pain I have knownHere's the music videoHere are the wordsFather of mineTell me where have you beenYou know I just closed my eyesMy whole world disappearedFather of mineTake me back to the dayWhen I was still your golden boyBac
Total Control 2008-03-17 20:14:04 Here's Martha Davis and the Motels 25 years apart (1982 & 2007) doing "TotalControl
"She looks good and can still sing! She's battled cancer and won.
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