4-Fun

Do you ever get a song stuck in your head and just can't remember who sang it? Or what it's even called? That's what happened to me with today's group 4-Fun. Does anyone remember in the early 90s when they tried launching a VHS version of a teen magazine? I don't remember what it was called. But for some reason I was selected to become a charter subscriber. Maybe it was due to my subscription to BOP magazine at the time? Anyhoo one segment featured a newly departed from Kids Incorporated, Stacy Ferguson (aka Fergie). In it she and her friends (including Renee Sandstrom and Stefanie Ridel who she would later form Wild Orchid with) are having a pool party. At said pool party the song You Can't Play Me by 4-Fun was played throughout. I remember buying the CD as a result. At least somebody did. Anyhoo it seems they had this one sole single. Their debut album, The Unbelievable Fun Boys was released in 1991 by EastWest Records. Their sound was 100% New Jack Swing. I can't physically locate my CD right now to even look up the credits, but I was able to found out that Ralph Tresvant was one of the producers. Like I said earlier, they had one single that came and went. Not even sure if it charted anywhere. I leave you with the video. It's pure early 90s cheese. Looks like it was filmed at a mall. Merry-Go-Round fashions and all.

Steve Best

I was recently looking at my posts and noticed that 9 out of 10 of my posts are female artists! What do you expect from a gay guy? LOL. So that brings me to today's post. A male artist! Yet I have NO IDEA who he is. Do any of you? His name is Steve Best and from what I can gather he is a one single wonder. His single The Way You Want It came up as a suggested purchase on itunes after I had bought another 90s single. From what little I could find, he is Canadian and was featured on a compilation put out by BOP magazine called, get this, BOP Boys. It was released on Interhit Records in 1998. Tried searching for him online and am coming up empty. Anyone? If you want the single and it's many remixes you can still buy them on itunes.

I know I've been slacking on updating this blog. Looking at last year's archives, I only did 4 posts. That's just sad. I promise to update more often. I have some upcoming interviews with some missing pop stars that you guys will be very excited to read. Thank you to everyone who's been reading this blog over the years. If you haven't already, become a fan of this blog on facebook.

best of 2010: singles

So it only took me 2 months into 2011 to post my fave songs of 2010. Ok Mike it's your turn. LOL! Enjoy.



20. Afortunadamente no eres tú - Paty Cantú. Like I've said before, I didn't really care for her previous efforts. But this song is just such a fun pop song that I couldn't stop listening to it. Plus 2 of my fave contestants from Mexico's Next Top Model (Anelís & Cecilia) were in the video. Can you get any gayer?



19. VIP (Dave Aude Radio Mix) - Zayra. Puerto Rican singer/songwriter Zayra hung up her guitar and hit the dancefloor with her first single in years. After a few delays (and a defunct group or two) she came back and made me appreciate a whole new side to her.



18. Whip My Hair - Willow. Ok so the chorus is annoying after awhile, but you gotta admit it's catchy as hell. I'm excited to see and hear what this little girl does next.



17. Been A Bad Girl - Khia. Thug Misses! If you don't know by now, I have an obsession with Khia. She's tacky, nasty, dirty, trashy, and those are all the reason I love her so. I'll admit at first listen I thought this song was rather lackluster. But then I saw the stunning video (those eyelashes kill me), I was in lust. Hurry up w/ that new album already!



16. Indispensable - Lucero. Oh Lucero! How I've loved you so for so many years now. It's been eons since she's done a proper pop album (she's been stuck in ranchera land for years). She came back w/ a pop vengance. So glad she did. This song/video/image is so bad it's good! Did I mention there was an English version too!?!?




15. Freak - Estelle. I was sold from the moment I heard the Soul II Soul sample. What a f*cking awesome song! The video! That hair! Of course it flopped in the US. No rent-a-rapper like her sole hit, American Boy. When's the proper album coming? What a tease!



14. Acapella - Kelis. Kelis Kelis Kelis. How do I love you? Let me count the ways. Why some consider you a one-hit wonder in the US is beyond me. When this song first leaked I thought it was too good to be true. The David Guetta, Frédéric Riesterer produced single has a thumpin' dance beat and a hypnotic chorus. What's not to love?



13. Commander - Kelly Rowland. I declare this the gay song of 2010. I swear I heard it everywhere I went (don't judge me). The beat, the hilarious vogue off by the dualing Kellys (like you never did this drunk with your friends at the local gay bar?). I love it! Why is the most talented one in Destiny's Child taking so long to release an album? Come on Kelly, give us gays what we want already!



12. Call Me - Samantha vs. Sabrina. They should have called this Titty Wars. Whomever had the idea to pair (pun intended) these two, Samantha Fox and Sabrina Salerno, is a genius! Give him or her a nobel prize! The two sluttiest singers of the 80s take on the Blondie classic and do it justice.



11. Somethin' Sexy - Cassie Steele. This song seems to be a one off, as it is not featured on either of her pop/rock albums and is more like her current work in KaraMel. So why include this and not KaraMel? Because I can. Seriously check out this electro/pop ditty. And yes it's available on itunes. Apparently it was a special release for Valentine's Day 2010. Manny Santos never sounded so good.



10. Baila duro - María Daniela y su sonido lasser. Don't watch this video too long. You might have a seizure. Other than that, MDYSSL continue to churn out some of the funniest music in all of Mexico (Mike you need to invest in their entire discography).



9. Lovesick - Emily Osment. Miley put down the bong. You must have been stoned out of your mind to let your sidekick outdo you. Seriously this song is wicked hot! Plus the video totally reminds me of Spectra dolls from the 80s come to life!



8. Shampain - Marina & The Diamonds. I simply can not get enough of Marina! She is amazing! I love that this video is the 2nd coming of Transvision Vamp's Sister Moon. Check out her quirky alterna/pop for yourself.



7. You Lost Me - Christina Aguilera. While I loved the hot mess that was Not Myself Tonight, I gotta admit that Christina is best when her vocals shine (and aren't oversung). It's just a stunning song. Plain and simple.



6. Dancing On My Own - Robyn. How does she keep turning out these amazing singles? Give me some of what she's drinking. On a side note the other day my other half pointed out that I liked her before she broke (I use the term loosely) America again. I found this blog post I did about her back in 2006 on my now-defunct blog! See you should listen to me people! LOL!



5. Egoista - Belinda. While her private life seems to be overshadowing her music career these days, I could care less. She did it again w/ this single. Hot! Hot! Hot! Even if that troll Pitbull had something to do with this song. P.S. I like your nosejob Belinda.



4. Me, Myself & Time - Demi Lovato. Yes I have a soft spot for Demi Lovato. Sue me. This song is from her Disney Channel series Sonny With A Chance and it's amazing. Again don't judge me. While this little ditty probably wasn't heard by many (other than 12 year old girls and me), it's worth checking out. Seriously!



3. Ghost - Fefe Dobson. I friggin' love this song! Fefe Dobson really surprised me with her current offerings. Back in the day I really couldn't stand her. I've grown to love her so. This song is probably the main reason.



2. Terrified - Katharine McPhee ft. Zachary Levi. Whenever I hear this song, I get this happy warm feeling inside. It just makes me happy. I love the vocal delivery Katharine gives. Who knew Zachary Levi had such a nice voice (mind you this is pre Tangled). This album version features the song's co-writer Jason Reeves but it was later recorded w/ Zach. I'm so glad it was, because this version has quickly become one of my all-time faves. Sigh.



1. Push Push - Kat DeLuna ft. Akon. Why oh why did this song flop? I just don't understand. Kat's vocals are killer, the RedOne production is amazing, and Akon even didn't annoy me on this one. It had everything hit songs are made of. Yet again my poor Flop DeLuna (how I lovingly refer to her) has another ignored gem. The line "sweet boy, I just want to be your fantasy boy" just brings a smile to my face everytime I hear it. At least she's got Belgium.

best of 2010: albums

I get the prize for being the latest huh? I'm even lazier than Mike! It's February 2011. Get over it. I present to you my favorite albums of 2010. A best of if you will. I'm no music expert, never claimed to be one. But while this blog focuses on forgotten pop stars of yesterday, I figure it's a perfect platform for me to talk about my current likes. Enjoy.

20. The Other Side - Nina Sky. So what if they're one hit wonders (2004's Move Ya Body). That never stopped me from liking anyone. I downloaded this EP for free (and legally) out of curiosity here. So glad I did! What a fresh collection! Part electro, part house, part R&B, and a whole lotta bangin'! Plus that wicked cover of The Cure's Love Song? Download this now! I can't wait to hear what these ladies do next.


19. Somos - Christopher Von Uckermann. While not the least talented vocalist to come from RBD (I think we can all agree that would be pretty boy Alfonso Herrera). Even though he's not a very good vocalist, I have to say he made one hell of a pop album. Who knew? It's probably up there w/ Anahí's Mi Delirio as the best post-RBD solo effort (I'm talking to you Dulce María and Christian Chávez). Check out Mundo Irreal

18. A Year Without Rain - Selena Gomez & The Scene. Disney's reigning pop princess must have taken note that us gays ate up her remix of Naturally (seriously who hasn't danced and sung along to this drunkenly at a gay bar/club?). So they did a whole dance album! Yay! Get the deluxe edition w/ the Spanish version of the A Year Without Rain. It alone is worth the price!

17. Baila Duro - María Daniela y su sonido lasser. Damn you are your EP! I wanted a full-length album but I've settled for this. Is settle the right word? I've grown to like this effort quite a bit since it came out in December. Sure the Baila Duro video can give you a seizure after watching it, but their sound gets me every time. It's like Jeans on crack! Their covers of No te aguanto más (originally by Spain's Objetivo Birmania) and Yo tenia un novio (originally by Rubio y los Casinos) are worth getting this alone!

16. Inside Out - Kat Deluna. Oh my poor Flop Deluna! Why are you being punished by the pop gods so? She released one of the best singles of 2010, Push Push (which I'll drool over in my best of 2010 singles list a little later). It flopped in the US of course. This album has been relegated to be released in Belgium and France only. Don't miss out on this talent. Buy the import! God knows when we'll see a US release (if ever). It's a great dance/pop effort.

15. Animal/Cannibal - Ke$ha. Ke$ha where have you been all my life??!?! She is trashy, bratty and I friggin' love her! She's like your favorite drunk bff! Boots & Boys is my favorite song on both editions. Hands down! Give me boots & boys indeed!

14. Dreamer - Soraya (Arnelas). Not to be confused w/ the late Colombian-American singer/songwriter Soraya, Soraya Arenlas is Spain's reigning queen of dance music. It says so on her website if you don't believe me! Check out her sassy collection of eurodance ditties! I've been enamoured of her ever since her twin albums of 80s covers! If there were any justice DJs in the US would begin spinning her.

13. Fight or Flight - Emily Osment. While Selena Gomez may be the reigning queen of Disney (sorry Miley), Emily Osment has outdone her w/ her trashy electropop debut! When I heard Hannah Montana's sidekick was releasing an album I was like "whatever". Boy was I surprised. Lovesick is such a hot song. It's better than anything Britney's done since Blackout. Are you done judging me? Good now listen to this album. It's hot!

12. Afortunadamente no eres tú - Paty Cantú. I thought Paty's former band was Lu, was in a word, lame. When she released her solo debut I thought it was more of the same (only she cut her hair). But when the first and title track came out, I was pleasantly surprised. It's a bright, cheery, pop album. Check out Goma de mascar, it's my absolute fave.

11. Fleshtone - Kelis. I love Kelis. Let me just start off by saying, I think she is one of the more interesting and original pop stars to come out in years. Looking like Amii Stewart reincarnated, girlfriend went dance on us with her latest release. And the results are glorious. When I heard the first single Acapella it was love at first listen. The same can be said for the entire album.

10. Aphrodite - Kylie. Dannii's older sister has done it yet again. Released a killer album. This album would have been higher on my list but I am mad at Ms. Minogue for 2 things. 1) not releasing the amazing Cupid Boy as a single (Better Than Today really???). 2) not including Chicago on her upcoming tour. Don't worry I still love ya! Not as much as Dannii, but pretty close.

9. Sale el sol - Shakira. Even though the first single, Loca, sounded like something Illegales did in 1995, that didn't stop me from giving this album a chance. I honestly didn't think she could top She Wolf. But she did. Love this album! It's like a new wave merengue party! Love Gordita w/ Calle 13, Addicted To You, Rabiosa and especially Devoción!

8. Joy - Fefe Dobson. I used to despise this chick. But she won me over with several singles from this album (I Want You, Watch Me Move and especially Ghost). A great pop/rock album. Welcome back.

7. Tiempo amarillo - Sasha Sökol. While I'll admit she's not the greatest singer, there is just something I love about her voice. Maybe it's the tone. Don't know. Sasha FINALLY released a new pop album. The first since 1996's 11:11. While a few of the singles (Dulce veneno, Luna de Paris) were very Paulio Rubio-ish, there are much better songs on this album. The mid tempo Eres tú, El pez, Luz azul and the exquisite Quiero repetirte. On a side note I got to see her live while I was in Mexico City last November. Sigh.

6. Nasty As I Wanna Be - Dirt Nasty. Simon Rex's rap alter ego is trashy, funny, witty, horny, and just plain hot! Boombox, Cougar, Suck My D*ck, Motel Room. I love this album! I think I may like them even more than his porn videos. LOL.

5. Unbroken - Katharine McPhee. While I don't watch American Idol, I do find myself becoming a fan of several contestants post show (Fantasia, Kimberley Locke). While I enjoyed a few songs from Kat's debut (Open Toes anyone?), it wasn't until her sophmore album that I can say I consider myself a fan. Upon first listen I wasn't all that impressed. I had high hopes because it was produced by John Alagía who produced one of my favorite albums, Wild Hope, by Mandy Moore. I gave it a few more listens, and found myself falling in love w/ this album. A great collection of adult pop. Love love songs like It's Not Right, How, Lifetime, Terrified (especially the rerecorded duet w/ Zachary Levi) and the bonus track How.

4. Bionic - Christina Aguilera. All hail Godtina! The harder Christina falls the more I root for her. What can I say, I'm a sucker for the underdog. So what if this album was a hot mess? Just get rid of Prima Donna, Sex for Breakfast and Lift Me Up, and replace them w/ the bonus tracks, you have one killer album! Why Little Dreamer, Bobblehead, Monday Morning, and Stronger Than Ever were made bonus tracks boggles my mind. Why weren't Vanity or Desnúdate singles? Why? Why? Why! This flop is right up there w/ Donna Summer's Mistaken Identity and Diana Ross's Workin' Overtime. In my book that's pretty high.


3. Body Talk - Robyn. Robyn released an album in 3 parts this year, and the combined result is one of my faves of 2010. I don't know what she's drinking, but I want some of it. Separately there are many standout tracks, and a few clunkers, but put them all together and it works. Lovekills, Dancing On My Own, Indestructable, Hang With Me, U Should Know Better. I could go on and on.

2. Carpe Diem - Belinda. I thought Utopia was a great pop album, but this one is even better. Egoista (even if Pitbull is involved) has to be one of the most adddictive pop songs to have come out in 2010 (even the English version). This album proves why she's the reigning princess of Mexican pop.


1. The Family Jewels - Marina & The Diamonds. I was first intrigued by this album because of the Interview-like art. I am glad I sought it out, because it's my fave album of 2010. Marina's quirky pop music is the best thing to happen to my ipod. My love grew when I saw her live last year at Lincoln Hall here in Chicago. She was great live. I want to see her every time she plays now (though I'll pass on her opening for Katy Perry). Are You Satisfied?, Obsessions, Oh No!, Numb, all amazing songs. How can I not love Shampain? The video was like an unintentional tribute to Transvision Vamp's Sister Moon video!

Strange Ké

It's been forever since I've last updated. Shame on me I know. Today I wanted to write about one of my fave no-hit artists. I remember finding the promo CD single Strange World at a used cd store. I immediately loved it and found out that the singer Ké had just released an album. The album was titled I Am [ ] . Released in 1995, the single didn't fare well on the Billboard charts, it did however become a top 5 dance hit thanks to remixes by Junior Vasquez. It did however go on to become a huge European hit. It became the #1 single of 1996 in Italy. A second single came and went, Someday. Ké's real name is Kevin Grivois. He looked like a 90s Calvin Klein model and kinda sounded like a chick when he sang. But that was what made him so appealing. The album is probably one of my faves of the mid-90s. If you've never heard it, give it a try (come on it's only 1¢ on amazon used).

A follow up was released in Europe in 1998 entitled Shine. Two singles were released, You Don't Know Me and Believer. I am guessing a US release was planned and then shelved as I own an advance promo copy of it. What was w/ RCA shelving albums left and right in the late 90s (Danielle Brisebois, Wild Orchid, etc.)? A third album came and went in 2001 entitled Better Way of Living. Released on the indie label Schizo Music, it now goes for big bucks on eBay. Not much has been heard from Kevin since then.

Or so I thought. While writing for this piece I found a brilliant profile done back in 2008 where Ké/Kevin talks about everything from his failed big label music career, to being too gay for the mainstream America and the new found audience his single Strange World has found. Check it out here! You can also check out what he's doing now by visiting his myspace page. From what I can see he seems to be going by the monkier onetribe. Glad to see he's still doing his thing, as a talent like his needs to be heard.

I leave you with the video for Strange World...





and Someday...

Don't forget....

Don't forget Milk Carton Pop Stars's favorite Stacey Q (we interviewed her last fall) has released her brand new album Color Me Cinnamon! It's available for purchase via Hydra Productions's official store or perfectbeat.com! Includes the singles Trip and Pandora's Box! Don't forget to visit Stacey Q Online as well!

L.A. Star

I honestly don't remember L.A. Star from back in the day. Which shocks me, as I was and always have been all about female MC's. I became intrigued by her after seeing her daughter, Rece Steele, compete on VH1's 2008 reality competition Miss Rap Supreme. Not only did I find myself rooting for her daughter, but I couldn't help but remembering how excited judge MC Serch was when he found out who her mom was. It wasn't until last year that I was at a used CD store (remember those?) and found a copy of L.A. Star's lone album Poetess in a clearance bin did I take the plunge so to say. What I found was an album that I could not stop listening to.

What little info I could find was that her real name is Lisa Ali. Her one and only album was released on Profile Records in 1990 entitled Poetess. Produced by The Hollywood Impact, Little Louie Vega, Kirth Atkins and Michael 'Dr Shock' Thomas the album was a female's point of view of gangsta life. I had no luck finding any chart info on the album or its singles. From what I can tell there were two singles in the US, Fade to Black and Swing To The Beat. In the UK the single N.P.T. Posse was also released. Again no chart info can be found for any of these releases. Dear readers let me know of any info you might have to help fill in the blanks. As for what's become of Ms Star and why she quit the rap game, that's where I'm hoping you guys can be of help.

If I recall correctly, when her daughter was on Miss Rap Supreme she mentioned her mother being disalusioned with the music industry, thus resulting in her only releasing one album. Sad because she was a great MC.

I leave you with two videos I could find. The first the video for Fade To Black featuring a young Rece Steele:

Here is the video for Swing To The Beat:

You can also check out her daughter Rece Steele's myspace page.

She's Delicious!

What better way to start 2010 than with an exclusive interview. Back in 2007 I featured one of my faves from the past, Pure Sugar here on the blog. After some digging around I was able to locate lead singer Jennifer Starr. Here goes...

10 QUESTIONS WITH MILK CARTON POP STARS

1. You are a hard woman to find! After some digging around I was finally able to track you down! You are now a photographer. Have you always been involved in photography or is this a newer form of expression for you?

Ha yes well...I go by Jenstarr now...but I still like to be called Jennifer too:) While I was doing music in Hollywood with various producers as a teenager, I also did hair and make-up for several photographers. After my record deal and the events that went down during and after the making of "Pure Sugar", I had to go into "survival mode". So I picked it up again (hair and make-up). The difference was, I really felt that I needed more, so I started shooting. My now fiance' Sean Bolger, is a wonderful photographer! He gave me a digital camera 6 years ago and pointed me in the right direction.

2. Tell our readers a little about you. Where are from? Is Jennifer Starr your real name?

I am from LA born and raised. My parents were artists and musicians. Due to my fast tracked and supercharged personality, I left home early on to pursue my dreams of dancing and singing. I worked as a dancer in several gay nightclubs and did hair out of my apartment in the Hollywood hills to make a living. It was a fun and free time, but it was the 80s..lol and I was a "disco dolly" so it was a rocky road for several years but I kept pushing and got a break with "Pure Sugar". My real name is Jennifer Storr, but my teachers growing up always read roll call wrong. They thought my last name was Starr....and I liked it, so it stuck. I am photographer now, I shoot fashion, music, and beauty.

Jenstarr in action behind the lens. (Photo by Erika Petty)

3. Correct me if I'm wrong but back in 1995 you appeared on the compilation 'Luminescence' with the track 'Hurting' Inside'. Was this your first recording?

This was my first released recording/remix of a track I wrote with a producer named John Wilmer. We wrote and recorded several song throughout the late 80's but that one he remixed and released on that compilation. Wow! You are good! :) (Found out this tidit thanks to discogs.com)

4. Let's take a trip back in time. I was working at a clothing store in college and I saw a tall woman wearing very little shoot lasers from her hands on the video screen backed by a sick dance beat and a booming voice. The song was called "Delicious" and a love affair w/ my ears began. How did you end up becoming the voice for Pure Sugar?

I was in a band called "The Zen Cowboys" in 1994, they had released an album called "Electric Mistress" (AMAZING ALBUM!!) and I was on stage singing at the Viper room one night freestyle and they were there gearing up for their US tour. They asked, actually demanded (LOL) me to join them on tour. So I did. It was the BEST experience ever! I sang with a girl then named Therase Willis, one of the best singers I have ever heard. She changed me on that tour. Really helped me find my live voice. So as I was touring with Zen Cowboys one night a band friend Pete Lorimer came to a show. I think it was House of Blues. Anyhow, he asked me to join Pure Sugar soon after that. So as the Cowboys tour was winding down, I went into the studio with Pete and Richard Vision and started working on "Pure Sugar".

5. "Very Cherry" would make a great drag queen name wouldn't you say? I honestly believe the Pure Sugar album is one of THE best dance albums ever recorded. In fact I still listen to it on a regular basis all these years later. I think it was mainly due to its exploration of different dance sounds. Looking back on that album what are your thoughts about it now?

I think it's a GREAT drag name! LOL. One of my best friends in the whole wide world wrote that track, Jim Harry. He has 2 Grammy nominations this year for P!nk's album. Well, to go into all of my thoughts on this album would be long. I have not listened to the album completely through in over a decade. In all of the good that I experienced in the process of that project, there was a lot which was extremely painful having to due with creative differences, industry politics, and the way I was handled as an artist by certain people around me. I mean the "Delicious" video budget was around two dollars. LOL. I LOVE the song "Delicious" and several of the tracks on the record. You are right. It was very diverse, and that was a realy strong point to the album I believe. A year ago, A close friend of mine, Tryan, was driving home from dinner and played a song I wrote "Broken" and it was surreal because I wrote that song out of so much pain that I was going through...and hearing that song was bitter/sweet. But mostly happy to hear it and felt like "wow, I should listen to my album sometime". LOL.

6. Was there ever a follow up planned to Pure Sugar's debut? Have you recorded anything since Pure Sugar?

There would have been...we had a #1 in Japan and we did scale the charts with 3 songs off the album as well. We also won "Best Dance Group in the World" at the Winter Music Dance Conference and back in 1998, that was the equivilent to a "Grammy's Dance Catagory" as they did not have one up until 1999. And there was a strong fan base that I felt "got it and loved it" and understood what I was trying to do. Because of the struggle I was going through as a "recording artist" having a vision and not being able to fully see it through, I had fallen sick in the midst of making the album and touring which created a huge issue with needing to get well. YES I play around with music and sing all the time for fun. I love looking at who is out there now, and what makes them special. But now, I see these musicians and I want to photography them in a way they will never be shot again. I understand a part of them and what they are doing and going through.

7. How does music play into your life these days? Please tell me you are still singing. That voice NEEDS to be heard again!

You are very sweet. I love shooting and I shoot to all kinds of great music. My house is filled with music at all times, and for me, it will always be my first and greatest love. I can't say I would ever do it as a profession again. The politics of the industry are bizarre. It's no wonder artists like Britney Spears have those "shave your head" moments. The rules make no sense, and it's hard to be ones self in trying to please the business side of things. So you end up taking various paths you did not ever imagine yourself taking just to stay in the game and in that process you can crash hard internally. It would have killed me eventually even if I am speaking metaphorically. LOL, no lie. My art is something I must feel I am in control and sync with. Every time I shoot, I am free of all boundaries and limits and all that matters is the art and the relationship I am having with it from beginning to end.

8. Everyone wants to know how that big black woman's voice got inside your tiny body. Who did Jennifer Starr listen to growing up?

Well that's a compliment. Thank you. I listened to a lot of jazz and classical growing up. My father was into this "beat nick" style of listening to music and it influenced me. I am grateful he played those artists in our home. It was a great education. But as a kid, I loved Donna Summer and Debbie Harry, Dale Bozio from Missing Persons, and Martha Wash, Chaka Kahn, Mary J Blige, Prince..so many!

9. Going back to your current profession. How does music play a part in your photography? Have you ever sung to your subjects?

LOL. Well, I listen to a lot while shooting and I love french 60's Jazz, classical, old school house (Black box), 80's new wave, Runaways, Prince, Funkadelic, Michael Jackson, 60's Joplin, Hendrix, Beatles, Beyoncé, early Madonna. The list goes on and on. No I don't sing to my subjects. But a few of them sing for me. I like to get my subjects so comfortable they feel they can do anything. :)

Current photo of Jennstar. (Photo by Sean Bolger)

10. Thanks again for taking time out to do this interview. Is there anything you'd like to tell your fans and our readers?

Thank you. Yes, I would like to thank "Pure sugar" fans for enjoying my work in Pure Sugar. It has always been my mission to inspire in any and all ways that I can. Life is a gift, treat yourselves good and enjoy the fruits of your work and endeavors and don't ever stop believing in yourself! I love you so very much....I really do.

I'd like to thank the lovely JenStarr for taking the time to answer my questions. She was a delight! Please make sure you check out her amazing work at her official website @ www.jenstarrphoto.com.

Favorite Albums of 2009

2009 was a great year for music in my opinion. So I decided to choose 30 of my favorite albums of the year. Usually I have a hard enough time picking 10 albums let alone 30. Let's go...

30. Amanda Leigh - Mandy Moore

Moore's 2007 release Wild Hope is quickly becoming one of my favorite albums of this decade. To say my expectations were high for her follow up, would be an understatement. That's not to say this album isn't good, there are just a few snoozers that left me wanting more. Standout tracks for me include the lead single I Could Break Your Heart Any Day Of The Week, Fern Dell, Pocket Philosopher and Nothing Everything.

29. Bestia - Hello Seahorse!

Mexico City's Hello Seashore! came to my attention when they were a free download on itunes this year. I liked what I heard and decided to check them out. It's not something I'd listen to everyday, but I really did enjoy the album's ethereal sounds and enjoyed them when I saw them play not too long ago.

28. Recuerdos y Tequila - Elan

Singer/songwriter Elan is one of my favorite artists that I've discovered in the last 10 years. So much that I'd say her album Street Child is my favorite album of the decade. However when I heard she'd finally took the plunge and recorded in her native Spanish, I didn't know what to expect. While she doesn't have the same umph as she does in English (her voice kinda loses it's scratchiness that I love so much), this is still a nice collection of covers. It's a very mellow collection of some well known songs. It'll tide me over until her next English language release.

27. Bendito entre las mujeres - Vallín

Maná guitarist Sergio Vallín created a wonderful concept album this year for his first ever solo effort. There were some great results, especially considering some of my faves are featured (Ely Guerra, María José, Janette Chao, Natalia Jiménez, etc).

26. Fortress Round My Heart - Ida Maria

Originally released in 2008 in Europe, Norway's Ida Maria's debut got a stateside release in 2009. Thank GOD it did. I love her frenetic vocals and her upbeat music.

25. Wild Young Hearts - Noisettes

The UK's Noisettes have a great sound and their latest release did not disappoint. Part soul, rock, disco, and everything in between, they have a sound that can't be ignored. They always put a smile on my face :)

24. Reality Killed The Video Star - Robbie Williams

Produced by Trevor Horn, this album saw Williams play w/ several different sounds. This could be a recipe for disaster, but as a fan I was very happy with his latest effort. I could listen toYou Know Me on repeat for days :)

23. Viva - Bananarama

The 'Nanas have found a sound that works for them, dance music, and released a fagtastic dance album that would force Madonna to trade in her last facelift for an album this good. They even did a cover of iiO's 2001 hit Rapture and managed not to destroy it. Check out Tell Me Tomorrow, Dum Dum Boy and Love Comes.

22. Sr. Kubrick ¿qué haría usted? - La Prohibida

Spain's fiercest drag queen finally released a follow up to Flash. Dabbling in synth, high energy and everything electro in between, check out this album to see what you've been missing out on. My personal fave is the high energy throwback Yo en Saturno, tú en Aranjuez.

21. Cuculand - CuCu Diamantes

Former Yerba Buena frontwoman released one of the sickest albums of 2009. I mean that in the best way possible. A glamorous mix of funk, traditional cuban rhythms and a wardrobe that Lady GaGa would kill for, CuCu is sexy, bold and finger waving fierce!

20. The E.N.D. - Black Eyed Peas

Love them or hate them, you gotta admit the Black Eyed Peas have really proved their staying power as one of the little groups that could during the 2000s. Who thought that after a politically charged under the radar hip hop band added a former girl group never been (might I add that Wild Orchid is one of my fave bands EVER) would be one of the biggest chart toppers today? While I could do without ever hearing I Gotta Feeling ever again in my life, the BEP made the ultimate party album of 2009. Hip hop has never sounded this dancey in years. Songs like Rock That Body, Meet Me Halfway, Simple Little Medley, Boom Boom Pow are the best proof.

19. Come to Life - Natalie Imbruglia

Definitely one of my favorite 90s relics, imo Natalie Imbruglia released her best album since 2002's White Lilies Island. The rock/pop jam My God, the dance floor ready Want, to my personal fave WYUT.

18. Dulce Tentación - Fey

Fey's early offerings made my ears bleed. I couldn't stand this woman until she released 2002's Vértigo. A dark and brilliant electro album. While never able to match the artistic high that was that album, she's finally released an album that's a step in the right direction. While many argue this album is pretty much a Kylie Minogue knock-off, I'm okay with that. Cicatrices is a total Two Hearts knock off if you're looking for further proof. Also of note are the songs Próvocame, Lentamente, and Dolerá and Sirena de cristal which could have been on Vértigo. Here's hoping the long not released English version, Sweet Temptation finally gets an official release.

17. She Wolf - Shakira

Shakira drenched herself in electro for her latest release. Glad she did because some of my fave songs prove that her new sound is working. Check out Men In This Town, Did It Again, She Wolf, Why Wait, or Mon Amour. If only she could go back to being a brunette, all would be well.

16. Gaetana - Giusy Ferreri

The Spanish version of Italy's Giusy Ferreri's latest fell into my hands unexpectedly and boy am I glad it did. I love her husky almost Amy Whinehouse like voice and her killer sound! I need more!

15. La descarada Vol. 2 - Amandititita

The best thing to come along on the Mexican music scene in years is back with a new album! Finally! Her satirical and humorous lyrics are sometimes wasted on those who take everything she does and says literally. Too bad because they're missing out on some of the funnest and smartest music to poke fun at Mexico in years! The blasting of Mexico's white washed soaps, La güera Televisa is brilliant! Also check out the hilarious ode to drunken husbands A chinga te vas.

14. Amante de lo ajeno - María José

While I hated the fact that she followed up her brilliant debut w/ a covers album...I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. By choosing (for the most part) non-obvious songs (they were all hits just not the covered to death ones we're used to in the Spanish speaking music); she brought some new life to some forgotten faves. Her covers of Fiordaliso (Sóla no, yo no sé estar), Crystal (No me pregunten por él) and Lucía Méndez (Mi amor amor) are amongst my faves. Her cover of Melissa's No soy una señora has become a huge hit in Mexico and is slowly doing the same here in the US Latin market! This Katy Perry-esque first single had to grow on me, but boy has it! Here's to her next album, which I hope is of original material. If you haven't check out her overlooked 2007 self-titled debut.

13. Mi delirio - Anahí

If you would have told me that Anahí, yes the same Anahí that used to annoy the shit out of me as 1/6 of RBD, would release one of my favorite albums of the year I would have told you that you were on crack! Well I hope you're enjoying your crack. While a flop artist w/ her previous solo efforts (save for the campy teen pop "hit" Corazón de bombon), her material has always been dull and uninspiring. Fast foward to this year when she teamed up w/ Mexican electro hipsters Kinky. What an odd pair. But one that I'm grateful for. Their collaborations, the Gloria Trevi penned Me hipnotizas, a cover of Él me mintió (ok let's admit NO ONE will ever top Amanda Miguel's version...but she gets an E for effort) and the Juan Gabriel sampling Hasta que me conociste were the standouts.

12. In Love & War - Amerie

Often called a poor man's Beyoncé, I think Amerie is proving that she is a force to be reckoned with. After the fabulous Because I Love It came and went, I was ecstatic for this new release. She did not disappoint. The thing I love about Amerie's latest offering is the rich almost live sound to it. It's not typical over produced flavor of the month crap. We need more R&B acts like her.

11. The 1995 Sessions - Dannii Minogue

So we didn't get gay marriage in CA, but hey we got the next gayest thing: a lost release from the prettiest, most talented Minogue out there. Ok so this isn't a "new" album. Even w/ 14 year old tracks Dannii still does it better! Remember that Kylie fans.

10. Pop Art - MPHO

From the stark contrast of the black and white portrait of MPHO to the hot pink background, that's exactly what this album sounds like. There is a mix of sounds and textures that made this album one of my instant faves. Standouts include the first single Box N Locks, which heavily sampled Martha & The Muffin's Echo Beach, the SWV sounding Morning After, Hips Go Pop, the motown meets 2000s All Change, and the disco tinged Paranoid Type.

9. Ultraviolet - Kid Sister

Could this be a long lost Fannypack album? I think so. Enough said.

8. Bones Of My Bones- Ebony Bones

Freaky, funky and fun. I absolutely loved this album. Her sound is all over the place just like the patterns of fabric she uses to make her outfits. I love this album!

7. Hombre invisible- Ely Guerra

To say Ely Guerra is one of my favorite voices ever is an understatement. If you ever get a chance, go see this woman live. She's just that intense. I digress. It seems like forever since Sweet & Sour, Hot y Spicy. Ely likes to take her time in creating music. There's an obvious reason. This album showcases her melodic, at times chaotic voice, and her amazing musical abilities.

6. Music For Men- Gossip

Beth Ditto is the baddest chick in music. She wails like no one and this collaboration with super producer Rick Rubin didn't take away from the Gossip's indie sound. In fact I think it only helped. He added another layer to their multi-textured sound. This album just makes you want to get up and dance!

5. Metamorfosis- Vega

Spanish singer-songwriter Vega ditched her Lilith-like sound/look of her previous albums and went for straight up Britpop sound for her 2009 release. There is a happy, poppy feel throughout. An almost 60s sound, right down to the cover. Check out Lolita, Mejor mañana, Cuanta decepción, Dentro, and Mágico. Aside from Chenoa, she is the best thing to ever come out of Operación Triunfo.

4. Absolutamente- Fangoria

To love one Fangoria release is to love them all. Some might argue that their hasn't really evolved much over the years. I beg to differ. They've played nice w/ some non-dance elements and the results are wicked. Produced by Tony James and Neal X of Sigue Sigue Sputnik, the dark dance of past albums are here as well as some new elements that made this album a definite grower for me. My personal faves are Más es más, Las Walpurgis te van a llamar, Lo poquito agrada y lo mucho enfada, Perdiendo los papeles otra vez, the title track, Con los angeles, Amanecer dorado and Ensayo para una despedida. Also check out the recent release w/ new versions! Alaska and Nacho can do no wrong to my ears!

3. How To Be A Lady Vol. 1 - Electrik Red

Why oh why this album flopped is beyond my comprehension. Quite possibly the best urban album of 2009. While none of the gals are anything special vocally, it's their sass and attitude that more than make up for it. Ever since i heard the trashy Drink In My Cup last year I've been anxiously awaiting this album to come out. The Dream and Tricky outdid themselves on production. I still can't believe so many people slept on this release. Hot hot hot hot sounds that your ears have been missing out on. Check out Friend Lover, So Good (I prefer the original non Lil' Wayne version thank you very much), Drink In My Cup, P is for Power, W.F.Y. (We F*ck You), and Kill Bill. Rumor has it the ladies are working on a new release already. Thank god!

2. Here We Go Again - Demi Lovato

I honestly listened to this album more than any on this list this year. Why wouldn't I? Go ahead and write Miss Lovato off as another Disney tart, but if you did then you'd miss out on one of the best pop/rock albums of the year. Yeah I'm standing by that. My inner 12 year old girl might have been lured in by Demi, but it's my almost 33 year old self that can't stop listening. She's got a nice set of pipes on her too. I honestly can say there is only 1 song on this album I did not like. And it was one of the bonus tracks, Gift Of A Friend (I'm assuming it's something Disney related). For the rest of the album, there are some great pop/rock offerings (World Of Chances, Catch Me, Stop The World, Falling Over Me), some harder rock songs (Got Dynamite, Remember September) and even the catchy theme song to her Disney Channel show Sonny With A Chance (So Far So Great). Here's hoping for a long career, I'd love to hear what this gal will be doing 10 years from now.

1. I Love You - Amanda Blank

Anyone who dares to cover Vanity 6 and not f*ck it up (Make-Up) is more than ok in my book. A mash up of electro dirty beats, hip hop, pop and rock & roll attitude made Amanda Blank's debut my favorite album of the year. The coolest white chick rapper since Betty Boo, she's one to keep an eye on. My favorites were DJ, Make It Take It, Might Like You Better (which samples the infamous lines of Romeo Void), Shame On Me, and Gimme What You Got. The Philly MC could very well fill the void that Avenue D left in my musical world when they broke up. To quote Martha Stewart, It's a good thing. Very good indeed.