Jump! i said JUMP! and take that Leap Of Faith – go ahead – Take The Leap!

Hello Monday peeps! The weekends never seem long to reset, do they? But since it is Monday, that of course means music! For the month of February, our Spotlight Dancer is our regular participant and friend, Mary of Jingle, Jangle, Jungle! This week’s theme: “You have two theme choices this week – #1 It’s National Pistachio Day, so how about spelling pistachio using Song Titles (or Artists/Bands if you prefer). #2 Since it’s a leap year, build your picks with “leap” or “jump” song titles. Let’s get this leaping and jumping party started!

Let’s start with this favorite 80s song that a lot of people will probably be sharing today given the theme. This song was the first song from this group to get much attention on pop radio and is by far their biggest hit (and only chart-topper). While it looks kind of ridiculous today, the video was groundbreaking and set the standard for cheap performance videos that hapless directors still try to emulate.

To produce such a video, the band is recorded performing the song several times from beginning to end. Then, the band members are shot doing random stage moves without the pretense of actually playing the song (note that the lead is seen playing the guitar at times when no guitar can be heard). Some candid footage is shot with the band goofing around, and it’s off to the edit room where the footage is chopped up into a video.

While most bands lack the charisma to pull off moves like “bass player duck under the lead singer’s leg” and “point guitar directly into the camera,” they try lame versions of it anyway, using such tactics as “run to the camera and stop” and “blow a kiss.” In an age when anyone can make a video but most bands lack the money and talent to make a good one, these videos have proliferated, and none has lived up to the standard set by this group for this song.

Get ready to dance, here’s Van Halen with “Jump”:

Next up is is a song I ran across when I was searching for songs to fit this week’s theme – my first thought is that this particular song would make a great workout song! The song celebrates the wild and exhilarating energy of a party where everyone is jumping and having a good time. The lyrics are meant to be a call to action, inviting the listener to jump and dance to the upbeat rhythm of the song.

Give a listen to The Black Eyed Peas with “JUMP”:

Next up, is another song I stumbled across while searching for this theme – this one comes from a Danish singer, who in November 2012 won an award at the Danish Music Awards 2012. He gained widespread recognition after participating in the Danish version of the reality show “The X Factor” in 2012, where he finished in fourth place. This platform catapulted his career, leading to the release of his debut single that became a major hit in Denmark and garnered international attention.

Known for his versatile musical style, the artist blends elements of pop, R&B, and soul, creating a unique sound that resonates with a diverse audience. His music is characterized by infectious hooks, emotive vocals, and relatable lyrics that touch upon themes of love, relationships, and personal growth.

Get ready for some goosebumps, here’s Christopher with “Leap Of Faith”:

Last, but certainly not least, yet another new to me song that I stumbled across (these theme weeks always introduce me to new tunes!) from a singer/songwriter duo (brothers) who write all of their music about their faith and experiences through life. Being born and raised on the Big Island of Hawaii has given them a unique perspective of the world around them.

The word they chose for their group is the Hawaiian word that directly translates to the verb “To Speak’’. It may be a simple word, but in the Hawaiian language context is everything-and we believe that when music speaks, it is the universal language. The duo also writes sync music for licensing for film and TV.

Give a listen to Olelo with “Take The Leap”:

That’s a wrap for this week – have a great Monday! See you on the dance floor!

Now onto the particulars of Monday’s Music Move’s Me:

I have the supreme honor and privilege of being a co-host with the inimitable Xmas Dolly and our musical cohort, the awesome Cathy from Curious as a CAThy, and Alana of Ramblin’ with AM!

Want to join in the fun? It’s easy – just find a tune that rocks your boat, post it and link up – don’t forget to grab Xmas Dolly…er, um, I mean her button…over at her place here. Check out Xmas Dolly’s sidebar for the random themes we sport each week – and you can always ask for a specific theme of music you like, too. Check out the other music lovahs and let’s jam!

Want to join in the fun? It’s easy – just find a tune that rocks your boat, post it and link up – don’t forget to grab Xmas Dolly…er, um, I mean her button…over at her place here. Check out Xmas Dolly’s sidebar for the random themes we sport each week – and you can always ask for a specific theme of music you like, too. Check out the other music lovahs and let’s jam!

Mary of Jingle, Jangle, Jungle