#also by the time the album comes out i will be a COLLEGE GRADUATE???

[sunnyperkins]

she’s literally so cutie patootie cutie cutie

[daysofyellowroses]

yellow rose

david von erich x afab!reader | 6.2k | 18+ minors dni | tw: language, smoking, mild smut | a reflection on your journey to the altar

so this is a complete and utter work of fiction, based on the very brilliant movie the iron claw. i knew as soon as i watched it i would have stories but i was a little surprised david came to me first. obviously harris dickinson is beautiful but i am down so bad for jaw. i got some kerry ideas too, and i always have a hundred different bear ideas on the go too so more to come | also just to note that because this is totally fictitious, i am choosing to ignore real life events for the most part and live in fanfic delusion. enjoy 🌼

-

It all seemed to happen in a flash.

In theory, you should have been used to it. Ready for it.

One minute you were heading to a local sports center on a work assignment, then in what felt like the blink of an eye, you were walking up the aisle to marry the subject of one of those photos.

But, to get to how exactly you ended up walking down that aisle, you need to go back to how it all started.

Which, like with most things when it came to you,started with a picture.

📷

From an early age, you loved photography. Capturing a moment in time, being able to look at it any time and relive the moment was always a thrill. Your childhood home was full of framed photos and photo albums, a collection of memories surrounding you.

When you turned 13, your parents gave you your own camera. It wasn't anything too technical or fancy, but it was immediately your most treasured possession. You took photos of everything, family occasions, your friends hanging out, nature, snapshots of Dallas.

As you grew older you threw yourself into studying everything about photography, worked an extremely tedious part time job to save up for a real camera, dedicated yourself to honing your skills. It wasn't difficult, your friends and family kept you busy with birthday parties, weddings, christenings, anything worth celebrating and you were there to capture the moments.

When you were in your senior year of high school, you discovered a fondness for a particular subject of your photos. You had been sitting in the bleachers after school one day with your friends, all you of chatting and laughing about something when you'd looked onto the football field and spotted two of the players talking about something animatedly, one of them slapping the other on the back as they laughed. 

You had grabbed your camera, snapping a photo and rolled your eyes playfully as your friends teased you. Sure, the players were cute, but that wasn't why you took their photo. When the shots had developed, you were thrilled that your instinct had been correct. The red of the players jerseys popped, the gold star on their helmets gleaming in the sun. They looked graceful, despite their large frames, natural and charming. 

From that photo, you began to base more of your photos on sport. It wasn't an area you had expected to become interested in, but it inspired your photography. Cheerleaders in perfectly formed pyramids, track stars crossing the line, football players clutching the ball to their chest as they threw themselves across the post.

After graduation, you applied for a journalism course, figuring it didn't hurt to have a backup plan and maybe it would get you a gig as a photographer for a newspaper or magazine. 

Leaving home was tough, especially when a big going away party was thrown for you, your friends and family coming together to celebrate your accomplishments. When the time came to leave you were sure you'd never cried so much, trying to hype yourself up for the adventure ahead.

It was a lot of fun, being at college, as it turned out. Making new friends, learning new things, having new experiences. By the time it was over it felt like you could back and do it all again in a heartbeat.

You decided to move back to Dallas after you graduated. A job opportunity at a big paper came up, and your friend Pam had found an apartment that came with a spare room so it seemed like the right move.

It was about two weeks later you were tasked with going down to the Sportatorium on a Saturday night to document the latest wrestling match. Every time you went to a sporting event for work, you were accompanied by the senior sports writer, Duke. He was older than your father, far too old for his cheap toupee to be even the slightest bit believable. He wore cheap polyester suits, too much cologne and had a fondness for calling you ‘missy’ and placing his hand a little too low on your back.

You had psyched yourself up to ask Pam to come along, preparing a whole speech in your head. If she was with you then you could avoid Duke like the plague, couldn't possibly leave your guest alone. 

Turned out Pam didn't take much convincing at all, in fact she practically jumped at the chance to come along. You tucked her excitement away in your mind, curious to see if the source would reveal itself at the match.

When the day came, you were excited to get some shots of a new sport. From what you'd seen on TV, the Sportatorium was bright and colorful, the wrestlers just as much so. You packed up your camera before getting changed into some jeans and a t-shirt. 

Pam had taken one look at you and marched you back into your room, your protests of “But I'm working!” falling on deaf ears.

A compromise was reached. Your t-shirt stayed but a denim mini skirt replaced your jeans and brown cowboy boots replaced your beat up sneakers. You felt a little ridiculous, your job had you in all kinds of angles and positions to get the best shots, the last thing you wanted was to be unable to get a good picture because you'd end up flashing tomorrow's laundry to thousands of strangers.

When you arrived at the Sportatorium, the sun was dipping below the horizon and what seemed like hundreds of cars and trucks were pulling up. People were grabbing beers out of coolers, blasting music from boomboxes, grilling up hotdogs on portable barbecues. You got a couple of shots before Pam was hustling you inside to get your seats. Well, her seat. You told her you'd meet her outside after the match, not that she seemed to be paying attention, her eyes focused on the empty ring. 

You made your way down to the ring, keeping an eye out for Duke and ready to sprint back to Pam if needed. To your relief, Duke wasn't in attendance. The junior sports reporter, Brian, had been sent in his place. The two of you weren't exactly close friends but he was much more professional. You got some shots of the crowd, feeling excited to see a match live. The atmosphere in the stadium was electric, like something incredible was about to happen. 

When the announcement came for the first tag team, you got some shots of them walking through the tunnel and into the ring, holding their arms in the air and greeting the crowd. Brian walked around the ring slowly, scribbling into a notepad, cigarette perched behind his ear.

Then they announced the next tag team, and you moved to the opposite tunnel to get shots of them. You took a breath as you snapped a shot of the taller one, his wavy blonde hair peeking out from under his back cowboy hat. He was wearing a leather jacket that he promptly tore off before he got into the ring, his back muscles rippling. 

You cleared your throat, taking more photos and trying to concentrate on what you were there for. 

The bell rang, and once the match started you had no shortage of great photo opportunities. The men in the ring moved with perfect proficiency and style, playing up to the crowd and putting on a spectacular show. You found yourself more and more drawn to the tall blonde, David Von Erich, you discovered. 

He was so graceful yet could have these huge men slammed onto their backs, his arms bulging and a cocky grin on his face. Once or twice you could have sworn he caught your eye and winked at you but you were sure it was your imagination. 

The Von Erichs won the match, you snapped a photo of the referee holding up the brother's hands as the crowd roared. Brian checked back in with you, telling you he was going to grab some quotes before heading off. You bid him farewell before going to find Pam, heading outside with the rest of the crowd.

“Hey, over here!”

You quickly spotted Pam, smiling as you waved back at her, weaving your way through the crowd to join her.

“Hey,” You smiled, laughing softly as Pam grabbed your arm, a wide grin on her face. “Are you al-”

“Come on,” Pam immediately started tugging you in the opposite direction. “let me show you something,”

You just about managed to maintain your balance and hold onto your camera as you dodged through the dispersing crowd, wondering what exactly Pam was doing.

Before long you had an answer, as you and Pam joined a large group of women hanging around the back door of the Sportatorium. Her keenness to come to the match made much more sense when Kevin Von Erich walked out the door, towel around his shoulders and bag slung over his shoulder. You had never known Pam to look at any man the way she was looking at Kevin.

“What are you waiting for?” You asked, giving Pam a gentle nudge. “Get on over there, girl.”

“I can't, there's too many girls round him,” Pam sighed. “I am not desperate. I'll wait for my time.”

“Saving the best for last huh?” You grinned, watching Pam roll her eyes playfully. “I don't think he's gonna be able to take his eyes off you.”

“You think?” Pam asked, glancing over to you. She looked genuinely concerned and you gave her a reassuring smile. 

“I know.”

A little while later, when the crowd had dispersed and Kevin was signing the last couple of autographs, you gave Pam a gentle nudge, smiling as she quickly fixed her hair.

“Good luck,” You grinned, gently squeezing her arm. “Not that you need it.”

You gave her some space, walking over to a trash can before fishing a pack of cigarettes from your purse. You lit one up, glancing over to Pam and smiling as you spotted Kevin heading in her direction. Closing your eyes as you looked away, you took a long drag on your cigarette and felt yourself relax.

“You know it's a bad habit to smoke those things.”

You opened your eyes, finding a familiar face standing close to you. He looked better in person than he did in the ring, if that was possible. 

“Well I'm sure you know that it is very rude to keep your hat on in the presence of a lady,” You raised a brow, flicking your ash into the trash can. “I could be deeply insulted.”

“I apologize,” David grinned, taking off his hat and giving you a slight bow as he did. He introduced himself properly, as did you, his hand moving over his heart as he tilted his head. “You know I was just joking, there's worse habits to have than smoking.”

You nodded, smiling a little. “Like creeping up on strangers?”

He laughed and you felt a flutter in your stomach. You willed it away, not wanting to be another simpering fan.

“You want one?” You asked, holding out the box of cigarettes. David looked like he was considering saying yes before he shook his head. 

“No, thank you. I shouldn't.”

“Fair enough,” You nodded, putting the box back in your purse. “It really is a bad habit. I'm trying to quit but I got some time to kill so..”

“Oh yeah?” David raised a brow, glancing around the quiet car park before looking back at you. “What you waiting for?”

“My friend,” You gestured in the direction of Pam, who was deep in conversation with Kevin. “she's a big fan.”

“So I see,” David grinned, looking over to his brother and Pam before focusing his attention back on you. “and uh..what about you? Are you a big fan?”

You thought about it/made him wait for a moment as you took a drag on your cigarette and raised a brow.

“I'm just here for work.”

“Really?” David looked a little surprised, lightly rubbing his jaw. “What kinda work do you do?”

You held up your camera with a smile before flicking your cigarette in the trash can. “I’m a photographer,” You explained. “for a newspaper.”

“Oh right,” David smiled, folding his arms. “I'll have to buy that, see if you got any good ones of me. Which paper is it?”

“It's the uh..huh,” You grinned as you glanced over to Pam, watching her laugh as Kevin said something to her. “Excuse me for one second.” 

You turned slightly, holding your camera up and focusing it on Pam and Kevin. You felt very aware of David's presence behind you, trying to hold your hands steady as you snapped a picture. 

“I have a feeling I may need that one day,” You smiled, settling your camera strap back over your shoulder and turning to David. “They're cute together, don't you think?”

“Yeah, I guess so,” David nodded, his gaze staying on you. “She ain't the cutest one here though.”

You rolled your eyes but couldn't fight the smile on your face and multiple flutters in your stomach. 

“Oh shut up, that's such a line.”

“I'm deadly serious,” David grinned, holding his hat over his heart. “I promise.”

You were about to say something when Pam appeared, linking her arm with yours and giggling as she went to drag you away. 

“Hang on one second,” David called, making you look over your shoulder with a smile.

“You never told me the name of your paper!”

“It's in Dallas,” You called back, walking forward with Pam, the two of you giggling. “If you find it, call me!”

📷

A couple of days later you were in the newspaper office, going over some photos for an upcoming article when one of the secretaries knocked on the door and asked for you.

“Call for you,” She explained, gesturing to the phone as you went to her desk. “They didn't give a name, just asked for you.”

“Okay, thanks Margaret,” You smiled, feeling a slight knot in your stomach. It was extremely rare someone called you at work, and you tried not to think the worst. 

Going to the phone, you picked it up and took a deep breath before holding it to your ear. 

“Hello?”

“Hello yourself.”

You let out a soft sigh of relief as you realized who was on the other end of the line, a small smile on your face.

“How many papers did you have to call before you found me?”

“That's not important.”

You rolled your eyes with a grin.

“More than two?”

“..five.”

“Oh wow,” You grinned, turning more towards the wall. “That's perseverance right there. I'm flattered.”

“Well so am I,” David replied. “I saw those pictures you took. They were great, I wanted to thank you for catching me at such a flattering angle.”

“You're welcome,” You smiled, glancing over your shoulder before looking back and lowering your voice slightly. “That the only reason you called six newspapers? Angles?”

“Not quite,” You could hear a cheeky tone in his voice, your fingers holding the phone cord. “I was hoping you'd come see me again. You don't have to take pictures this time, if you don't want.”

“As it happens I am coming,” You raised a brow with a smile. “Your brother beat you to the invite. He invited Pam, who invited me. So I'll be there.”

“Well damn,” David laughed softly. “I guess I'll just have to come right out with it then..ask you on a real date.”

“Oh?” You grinned, feeling like a teenager as your cheeks grew warm. “How about we make it interesting?”

“I'm all ears.”

You took a breath, trying to calm your heartbeat. You were aware of Margaret behind you, knowing she'd be listening to every word. 

“Alright, if you win..I accept. If you don't, no deal.”

“Hm, sounds fair,” David replied. “I guess I'll have to try a little harder this week. I'll let you get back to work, alright?”

“Alright,” You nodded, trying not too smile too widely. “I'll see you Saturday. Bye.”

You hung up the phone, turning around to Margaret with a polite smile.

“Thank you, I'll be in the office.”

Once you closed the door and found yourself alone, you let out a laugh, shaking your head and wondering what you'd let yourself in for.

📷

Saturday came around quickly, and most of the day was given over to preparing. At first you were just helping Pam, heading into store after store to find the perfect outfit. Then you started looking for yourself, realizing that you wanted to put in just a little more effort since you were going to watch, not work. 

As the evening drew closer, the radio was on full blast in the apartment as you and Pam cracked open a bottle of wine and started the beauty process. You couldn't shake the slight nerves that were settled in your stomach, but they were joined by an excitement. 

“Oh,” Pam turned from the bathroom mirror to look at you. You were sitting on the edge of the bathtub, carefully painting your toenails. “Did he ever get in touch? David? I completely forgot to ask.”

“Yeah, he found me,” You grinned, laughing as Pam gasped. “Asked me to come along tonight. I told him I was already coming.”

“And?” Pam asked, waving her hand at you. “What else? Did he ask you out?”

“I told him he can take me out if he wins,” You smiled, holding the bottle of nail polish up in the air with a laugh as Pam rushed over to hug you.

“This is so exciting! We're gonna be like sisters!”

📷

When you arrived at the Sportatorium, it seemed to be even busier than it had been the previous week. You stepped out of your truck, smoothing out your outfit. It was only a black off the shoulder top and some denim jeans but you hoped it still looked good. 

You linked your arm with Pam's as the two of you headed inside the bustling arena, your heart beating faster as you took your seats. As it turned out, watching the match was totally different to photographing it. You couldn't move about, couldn't pick one thing to focus on. It was all happening, bright and loud and thrilling. You found yourself cheering and whistling with the crowd, you and Pam both jumping up and screaming when the Von Erichs emerged victorious.

When it was all over and you were enjoying the fresh air, you couldn't help but find it adorable when Kevin couldn't keep his eyes off Pam while he signed autographs. Once he was free you gave him and Pam some space, almost immediately bumping into David.

“Hey winner,” You smiled, resting your hands in your back pockets. “Nice angles in there.”

“I hope someone was there to capture them,” David grinned, taking his hat off. “Did you have a good time?”

“Yeah,” You nodded, watching David for a moment, smiling as you realized he almost seemed a little nervous. “I really enjoyed it..though I'm a little curious about something.”

“What might that be?” David asked, moving his hat from one hand to the other. 

“Well,” You smiled, stepping closer and looking up at him. “Are you going to honor our agreement?”

📷

It was only when you were putting on your coat to leave the apartment when it dawned on that you hadn't actually been on a first date for..a while. There were some relationships in high school, a couple in college along with some dates and flings but the last had been before you graduated. 

You tried not to think about it too much, you were just going for dinner and seeing a movie. Worst case scenario, you and David didn't end up hitting it off and the world would go on as it always did. But part of you was hopeful that something would come from the date, that it would develop into something really great.

Grabbing your purse, you left the apartment and went downstairs to hail a cab, excitement starting to outweigh the nerves.

📷

“No way,” You laughed, your eyes going wide as you placed your hand over your chest. “You did not do that.”

“Yes I did,” David nodded, a serious look on his face before he laughed. “I was so sick afterwards. Never got found out though. Mom just went and got Kerry and Mike a new egg each. I couldn't eat chocolate for like three months.”

“I'm not surprised,” You laughed, picking up your drink. “You can't say you didn't deserve it.”

David laughed, nodding as he picked up his own drink. 

“I certainly did deserve it. Moment of weakness I guess.” 

You took a sip of your drink before setting the glass down and glancing around the restaurant. It was a steakhouse, but it felt like a nice one. Elegant lighting, candles on the tables, classy music playing. No sawdust or butcher paper to be found. 

“So do you think your brothers ever found out?” You asked, sitting up a little and resting your hands in your lap. “Or did you tell them?”

“No to both I'm afraid,” David sighed softly, lightly tapping his glass as he set it down. “Though I think Kev knew it was me..” He smiled to himself as he looked down. “Never said anything if he did know, though.”

“Seems like you two are close,” You smiled, your heart picking up a beat as David looked back at you with a warm smile. 

“We are,” He nodded. “We all are. I can't imagine life without them, they're amazing.” 

You felt your heart swell, trying not to get too swept up in your emotions. 

“That's so wonderful,” You smiled. “It's amazing that you're all so close.”

“Yeah,” David grinned, sitting up a little. “I just feel so lucky every day, like..” He stopped himself, lightly rubbing his neck.

“You know what, I feel like all I've done is talk about myself, my brothers, I don't want you to think I'm self absorbed or nothing, I promise I ain't like that.”

You shook your head, reaching your hand across the table and grinning when David held it with his own.

“I know you're not,” You insisted. “You're wonderful. Now tell me more about your family, I want the good stories.”

You ended up missing the movie, but neither of you cared. You talked until the restaurant was closing, David's jacket around your shoulders as you walked out into the night air. He gave you a ride home and kissed your cheek by your door  like a gentleman. 

“I had a great time,” You smiled, carefully taking off David's jacket and giving it back to him. You could tell he wanted to tell you to keep it, and you knew why he couldn't. 

“Maybe you should win another match, take me out again.”

“It's a deal.”

📷

Going to matches became a weekly event. You and Pam would cheer and cling to each other, laughing at how silly you were being. You took pictures for yourself, wanting to remember every moment. Afterwards you would meet David and Kevin, go for burgers and debrief on the match. 

It wasn't always easy for David to visit you, so you called each other when you could, spending an hour or two talking about anything and everything. You drove down to Denton a couple of times, meeting him for something to eat or just for a drive. 

He was always a perfect gentleman, opening doors for you and holding your hand, never pressing for anything more even though you suspected he was just as keen as you were to take things further.

You decided to nudge things in the right direction one night when you had gone down to visit him. Pam had come with you, and David and Kevin had taken you to the lake with their brother Mike, who you instantly adored. 

The afternoon was perfect, gorgeous hot weather and ice cold beers, floating along in the water and feeling like nothing else could possibly matter but being in that moment. 

You were sitting on the edge of the dock while the others drifted along on the huge rubber float, snapping a couple of shots of them before setting the camera aside. David appeared next to you, sitting down and resting his hand on your back. You leaned into the touch, his arm moving around your shoulders. 

“I love this,” You smiled softly, closing your eyes and letting out a breath. “If every day was like this..what a world.”

“It's perfect,” David murmured softly. “I can't think of anything better.”

“Hm, I reckon I can,” You smiled, opening your eyes and looking up at him. His eyes were already on you and you grinned as he took a breath and leaned in, his lips feeling like heaven against yours. 

You could hear the cheers and whistles, smiling into the kiss and feeling satisfied beyond belief. 

📷

“You ready for this?”

“Absolutely not. You?”

“Absolutely not.”

You flicked on the indicator and headed up the long drive to the Von Erich home, glancing over to Pam in the passenger seat.

“At least we're in this together.”

It was incredibly daunting, the thought of meeting David's parents and his brother Kerry, who had recently come home. He had told you countless times that they would love you, but it didn't ease your nerves. 

You were relieved to have Pam with you, that she was in the same boat. Mike met you both at the door, giving you both a hug and chatting away as he led you outside. 

It was a flurry of introductions, handshakes and hugs and the most perfect kiss from David that had you instantly relaxing.

By the time everyone sat down for dinner, it felt as though you had known the Von Erichs forever. The food was delicious, the weather was beautiful, the company was amazing. You felt David reach for your hand under the table when his parents talked about how they met, your heart swelling. 

When Doris forbade Mike from going to a gig that night, you glanced across the table to Pam smiling as she gave you a slight nod.

📷

“Alright, drive, drive!”.

You put your foot down, laughing as you glanced in the mirror and watched your boyfriend and his brothers gradually haul themselves into your truck. You turned the radio up when you left the driveway, rolling down the windows and cheering as you hit the road.

It didn't matter whose house the party was in, it was big and roomy and most importantly, fun. You had a beer in your hand before you knew it, hitting the makeshift dance floor. The brothers spun you and Pam around, laughter filling the air as you moved to the music, not a care in the world.

When Mike took to the stage with his band, you stood with David behind you, his arms wrapped around you. You all cheered as the song started up, swaying along as you held your hands over David's. 

Later in the evening you gently took David's hand and pulled him into a quiet corner, whispering in his ear and enjoying the slightly tipsy smile that crossed his face, a flash of worry passing his eyes.

You led him upstairs, finding an empty bedroom and closing the door.

“We..we don't have to,” David insisted as you slipped off your shoes. “I don't want you to feel pressured.”

“I don't,” You smiled, walking to the end of the bed and unzipping your dress before turning back to David. “But I will think you don't want to if you don't get over here in the next thirty seconds.”

He didn't need to be asked twice.

You laughed as you were picked up bridal style and carried to the top of the bed, letting out a soft moan as David laid you down and gave you a tender kiss.

Despite your suspicions that David was possibly a virgin, you didn't ask when he didn't bring it up. He was a little apprehensive, but once you took the lead he seemed to tap into his ring persona and the confidence in his movements had you struggling not to scream as your nails dug into his back, the sheets, your body crying out for more. 

“Oh god,” You moaned, touching David's cheek and looking up to meet his eyes as your legs hooked around his waist. “Baby..’m so close, please..”

You closed your eyes as he pushed deeper into you, his forehead resting against yours.

“Me too,” He murmured, his hand reaching for yours. “Fuck..fuck..I love you.”

Your eyes went wide at the confession, a deep moan spilling from your lips as you felt a wave crash over you, feeling David fill you moments later. You moved your hands to his neck, meeting his eyes and taking a deep breath. 

“I'm sorry,” He sighed, looking down. “I shouldn't have-this isn't the time..”

“No,” You insisted, a smile spreading on your face. “It's the perfect time. I love you, too.”

📷

“Mind if I get one of those?”

You turned around, letting out a sigh of relief as you spotted Kerry walking towards you. 

“Of course,” You smiled, taking the box of cigarettes from your purse and handing it over. “Thought you were David for a second.”

Kerry laughed as he accepted the box, shaking his head.

“Nah, your secret is safe with me. Just needed one huh?”

“Yeah,” You nodded, flicking away the ash. “I'm so nervous. I don't know why, it's not like I have to walk down the aisle in front of hundreds of people wearing this,” You raised a brow, gesturing to your dress.

As much as you adored Pam, and as thrilled as you were that she was getting married and had asked you to be her maid of honor, you did not exactly love the dress she had chosen. For a start, it was a mix of dusky pink and peach, the skirt was so big you wondered if you fit down the aisle, and the sleeves were almost the size of your head.

“I feel you,” Kerry nodded, looking down at himself as he lit his cigarette. “I think we all feel a little ridiculous. But you know the worst part?”

“Go on,” You smiled, lifting up the puffball that had slipped down your shoulder. “shock me.”

“I gotta do this three more times,” Kerry sighed, lightly prodding the flower attached to his suit. “At least you get to choose your wedding dress. I'm stuck in velvet hell.”

You laughed, shaking your head and taking a drag on your cigarette. 

“Oh come on, it ain't so bad. I think I heard Mike say he would never have velvet.”

“Really?” Kerry raised a brow, looking over to you. 

“Promise,” You grinned, holding your hand over your heart. “He said he'd have velour.”

“Oh fuck off,” Kerry laughed, shaking his head and holding his hand out. “Gimme a mint and get out of here, I'll velour you.”

“I'd like to see you try,” You laughed, getting a mint from your purse and flicking your cigarette away before walking over to Kerry. “See you inside. Don't destroy that flower.”

📷

“Isn't she beautiful?” You smiled, watching Pam and Kevin sway on the dancefloor, smiles etched on their faces as they moved to the music. 

You felt the urge to take a photo, but a professional had been hired for the day. Pam had insisted she wanted you to be in the pictures, not the one behind the camera. You had been a little disappointed, but you gave her the photo you'd taken from when she and Kevin had first met, and her reaction made it all worth it.

“She really is,” Doris nodded, looking over to you and taking your hand with a smile. “And you will be too.”

“Thank you,” You smiled, giving her a kiss on the cheek. “Let me go get us another drink.”

You stood up, making your way over to the bar with a smile. While you and David weren't officially engaged, it was kind of an unspoken truth that when Pam and Kevin had gotten married, David would propose to you next. Kerry wasn’t seeing anyone, and while Mike was dating a girl, they had only been together a few weeks.

So, you knew you were next up.

As you waited for your drinks, you smiled as you felt a familiar presence by your side.

“Have I told you how beautiful you look today?”

“Yes,” You grin, turning to face David and giving him a kiss. “But I don't mind hearing it again.”

As the song ended and a new one started up, more guests took to the floor.

“Should we go for a twirl?” David asked, gently stroking your cheek. “or maybe not quite a twirl, that dress will take out anyone who comes close,” He teased.

“Oh shut up,” You laughed, lightly swatting him. “I'm getting your mom a drink, if I don't take you out first.”

“I'll take it to her,” David smiled, leaning down to give you a soft kiss. “Then you owe me a dance.”

📷

So, here it is. 

The big day. 

You thought at times it would never come, but it's here. 

A lot has happened, of course. Weddings need buildup, after all. The guests can only talk about how beautiful you look and wonder who did the food for so long. You gotta give them something. 

So what's new? It's been a minute, a luxuriously long engagement. 

The Von Erichs have gone from strength to strength, reaching the top of the wrestling game. You still go see matches, when you can. They're global now, you always feel a rush of pride when you watch them on TV at some crazy hour.

Pam is a world class veterinarian, an incredible mother to the most gorgeous baby, and still the best friend in the world. 

Kevin won the WHC belt, is the most devoted husband, father, brother, brother-in-law and son. He and Pam keep saying they're going to buy a ranch in Hawaii for everyone to live in, and you like to think maybe it could be true.

Kerry insists he's your favorite brother-in-law, and you insist that you couldn't possibly choose a favorite but deep down you think he's most likely right. He makes you laugh the most, teases you and makes stupid jokes to cheer you up when you need it. The two of you have sneaky cigarettes and know what the other is thinking when you look at each other. 

Mike has just signed a recording contract with his band, and you tell him all the time he better come to you first with concert tickets. He's going to be the next one engaged, he's so loved up and it's adorable. 

Then there's David. 

The yellow rose who called up six different newspapers just to ask you out, who let you into his life, who loves you unconditionally and makes you so unbelievably happy that you wonder what you ever did without him. You would never have pursued your dreams without him and his family, that's something you know. And let's not forget his proposal, which was the most beautiful moment of your life.

David had taken you on a surprise trip one night, insisting that you were just going for a drive after you'd been out for dinner, but you knew it wasn't true. You found yourself at the lake, David's hand in yours as you walked down to the dock, which..was decorated with candles in jars, rose petals, a bottle of champagne sitting in ice. 

Knowing that you were marrying your soulmate, joining a family you loved deeply, it made you feel so safe, so secure. You quit your job, deciding to pursue your real passion. You bought a gallery in Dallas, and displayed your own work along with other local artists, including your soon to be mother in law. It took time, but it's become a success, and you don't care what any of them say, you couldn't have done it without your family.

Plenty for the guests to talk about, right?

You take a deep breath as you step out of the car, Pam fixes your dress and you take a deep breath. Her dress is beautiful, and most importantly, simple. 

Before you know it you're walking down the aisle, your heart beating faster as hundreds of faces smile at you, but there's only one you need to see, and when you do it makes everything okay. 

You reach the top of the aisle, feeling overwhelmed with love, beaming as you turn to look at your soon to be husband.

“You know it's a bad habit to leave the bride with a veil over her face,” You grinned, watching David gently touch the hem of the silky veil and carefully move it back, a wide smile on his face.

“I do apologize,” He grinned. “Still gonna marry me?”

“Of course,” You smiled. “You look perfect from this angle.”

[averagewriter-inthedark]

Barbie Girl 💄 | Jake ‘Hangman’ Seresin Imagine

Takes place before, during, and after the events of Top Gun Maverick

TGM Masterlist

Characters & Pairings: Jake ‘Hangman’ Seresin x Barbie!reader (romantic), dagger squad (platonic)

Content warnings: light profanity, fluff | female!reader (she/her) | wc: 4.3k

Requested 📨 yes/no (for @kayla-swiftly)

Premise: They say the sky is the limit and anything you set you’re mind to will be achieved as long as you’re dedicated to it. For most people that testimony is nothing but a mere fantasy. But for one woman, with too many dreams to count on her fingers, she took that statement to heart. Proving you can be anyone you want to be and maybe even a few others give or take 😉

Note: Anyone else obsessed with Barbie lately?? Omg y’all I saw the movie last week and absolutely fell in love and i had this request from around the time the final trailer dropped and knew it was the perfect time to write this. I know I know I haven’t been living up to my promise of being consistent but man they having me working my ass off at my job. Also I’ve been traveling and I saw Big Time Rush last night (i felt like a teenager again and it was amazing 😭) anyway I hope you enjoyed this and let me know what you think!

—————————

“Hi, Barbie!” The familiar greeting fills Y/n’s ears as it does every morning she arrives at the hangar. With it comes an instant smile, hand raising to wave at the person responsible for it, “Hi, Phoenix!”

“Hey there, Barbie,” winks another friendly face.

“Hiiii, Hangman,” her tone is playful like his, turning energetic for Bob when he goes, “Hiya, Barbie!”

“Hi there, Bob!”

“Hey, Barbie.” “Good morning, Barbie.” “What’s up, Barbie Girl.”

“Hello, Rooster.” “Good morning to you too, Fanboy.” “Nothing much, Pay. And yourself?”

Unlike her fellow pilots, clad in their deep green flight suits, Y/n stood out in the crowd for hers was a little unorthodox when one thinks of a naval fighter pilot's uniform.

It was pink. Completely as in her combat boots were also the bright color and the patchers were white and pink tones rather than red, blues, black and any other color seen in the ones attached to her coworkers arms. ‘Barbie’ in pink cursive writing instead of traditional bold Times New Roman lettering.

And don’t forget the little flower dotting the ‘i’.

Growing up, Y/n took ‘you can be anyone and anything you want to be,’ quite literally. At no point was it a joke to her when she would tell her friends and family, “oh I’m gonna be a fashion designer and Olympic Gold medalist when I’m older,” “I wanna go to space, fly in planes, and see all the wonders of the world,” “I’ll be a doctor, a teacher, and movie star!” They’d smile and laugh, thinking it was adorable for a little girl to dream big. No way would it be possible to achieve all of those careers. Everyone only gets one life to live and time goes so fast one can only set their eyes on one path and hope for the best.

But Y/n was a dreamer. And if you’re going to dream, might as well dream big.

All through middle and high school people took Y/n’s intelligence for granted. Focusing more on her beauty rather than brains, it came as an under shock to everyone when Y/n had the credits to graduate at the ripe age of 15. Exceeding in her standardized test scores with a high school resume taking up three pages with extracurricular and academic achievements, she had colleges from all over the country begging for her to apply.

Stanford. Cornell. Pratt. Juilliard. NYU. John Hopkins. Harvard. UCLA. Duke. Top medical and law schools. Ivy League universities. Performing Arts schools calling for auditions after sending scouts to watch her perform in school plays and dance recitals. Coaches from high ranking NCAA gymnastics teams sending emails after emails.

So many to choose from….And so the story of Y/n L/n becoming a real life Barbie Doll begins.

Setting her eyes in New York, Y/n attended not one but two of the best schools in the country. While obtaining her bachelor’s in both astronautical and aeronautical engineering at NYU Y/n also completed a two year degree in Fashion Business Management at the Fashion Institute of Technology. During this time she continued training for the Olympics in hopes of making the 2008 Beijing team in gymnastics.

“How do you do it?” Her roommate at NYU constantly asked. “You go from here to FIT, working on two degrees that are completely on opposite sides of the spectrum and career paths,” she emphasized with hand expressions, “and still have enough to time to go to the gym to practice, eat three meals a day, have all your assignments done early, and sleep a reasonably about of hours each night.” Letting out an exhale, her roommate looks at Y/n as if she’s an alien from another world, “What’s your secret? Are you some kind of Barbie doll the government created as a test robot?”

Each time Y/n would pause, think for a moment before smiling, “I don’t know if I should find that as an insult or compliment, but I’m gonna chose it as a compliment and say it’s because I want to live a life where I can look back on and go, ‘I took a risk and tried something new even if it didn’t look possible but it was all worth it.’”

By the time Y/n turned 20 she had accumulated a vast list of credentials to her name. The list included getting her fashion business degree at 17, Bachelors in astronautical/aeronautical engineering at 19–receiving her Master’s for it at 20–An Olympic Gold and Silver medalist, dancing with the Radio City Rockettes, performing with the NYC Ballet Company in their rendition of Swan Lake, landing a role on Broadway, walking a runway at NY fashion week, and appearing on episodes of SVU, 30 Rock, All My Children, Sex and the City, and Ugly Betty.

So yeah, New York was a success in experiences for Y/n.

Following the high note, she packed her bags to leave the golden apple for the flashing lights of Hollywood, California. This time Y/n was working on her doctorates at USC, running her own business with her fashion degree called ‘Dream Closet’, and auditioning for film and tv shows.

Hollywood was a dream come true just like New York. Again she attended two different schools, this time flight school and USC. During the day she was occupied running from class to the hangar and then the observatory. Coaching dance and gymnastics on the side, designing clothes for her online shop which developed into a pop-up chain store in malls across America.

It wasn’t long until Y/n’s name grew into nationwide popularity. People started realizing the Y/n L/n who won the Gold and Silver medals in the 2008 Olympics was the same one responsible for the most recent fashion trends and guest starring on their favorite tv shows. What really set it in stone was when Y/n landed the role of an engineer officer in the 2009 reboot of Star Trek, going on to appear in both the 2013 and 2016 sequels.

Impressive was the only word her costars could use to describe her. What else was there?

Anytime there was a question involving, “who’s most likely to become president?” “Who’s most likely to try something new or create a new hobby?” “Who’s most likely to win a Nobel Prize?” Along those lines…the answer was obvious.

“Oh Y/n,” Zoe Saldana waves her hand, “Always.”

“Yeah,” Chris Pine agrees with a laugh, “That woman, I-I don’t know how one has the energy to do all that she does—a-and still want to do more.”

The Interviewer laughs with them, “didn’t she just race in the Daytona 500 last year?”

“Yes!! And she did a song with Lady Gaga when they were on American Horror Story,” Zoe’s tone is in absolute awe, “All while teaching at USC and creating new technology at NASA.” Chris lifts a finger.

“Don’t forget she had her own Mac Viva Glam line a couple years ago.” Zoe made a sound along the lines of ‘see what I mean,’.

“I’m telling you, she’s gonna be a name in the history books.”

What all has Y/n accomplished career wise? Let’s take a look.

Model, dancer, actor, singer, fashion designer, entrepreneur, athlete, engineer, race car driver, and professor.

And now she can add pilot to the list. Although she got her license to fly way back in 2009, Y/n didn’t put it to use full time until 2016, wanting to wait until after the release of Star Trek: Beyond to say goodbye to Hollywood for the time being and set forth on her next adventure.

Boy did it come as a surprise what she had planned.

The Manila folder containing her resume hit the desk of the Admiral, his eyes wide as saucers. “You wanna join the Navy?” Reading the front page for a fifth time, Cyclone glanced back at the woman in front of him. Doctor Y/n L/n. Or is it professor L/n? “And you wanna be one of my pilots?”

“Yes, Sir.”

”Ma’am, I apologize if this comes off as offending,” he really didn’t know any other way to put it. “But you are more qualified than any person on this base. Doctorates in aeronautical and astronautical engineering from the University of Southern California,” he counts off on his fingers, “you recently developed a groundbreaking advancement in space technology that’s going to help our astronauts—on the road to becoming a Nobel Prize nominee.” He raises his eyebrows, “And this is only what relates to this career field. I’m not even mentioning your acting, athletic, and fashion credentials. Why join the Navy?”

Y/n only offers a shrug, “I think the better question is, why not?” Cyclone lets out a sigh.

“What did you say your callsign was again?”

“Barbie.”

There was no stopping the small smile trying to break free, “I should’ve guessed.”

After completing OTS there was much debate on what Y/n’s rank would be coming into the Navy. Civilian lawyers and physicians often are Lieutenants (O-3) right away, but considering Y/n had two doctorate degrees and her pilot license they felt it was only fair for her to come in as Commander (O-5). From there Y/n was sent to North Island to attend Fighter Weapons School.

Better known to its flyers as Top Gun.

Y/n was used to the looks she received on a daily basis. From head to toe she was covered in variations of pink depending on what she was feeling. When teaching her briefcase and pantsuit were baby pink, in the labs her coat was hot pink, at auditions she wore pink leather jackets. Even her race car for the Daytona was pink.

Shoutout to Mac cosmetics for the sponsorship.

So it’s no surprise her flight suit would be the color she was known for—despite it being out of regulations.

Being more qualified than your superiors had its perks.

If she could have a pink F-18 she would but unfortunately that wasn’t possible. That was okay for Y/n. After all, she managed to get her own custom flight suit. One which had everyone having to do double takes whenever she walked into a room.

“Is she wearing…?”

“How the hell did they allow that?”

“Does that mean I can have mine in purple?”

Her first day at Top Gun Y/n met Natasha ‘Phoenix’ Trace. They were paired as roommates in the dorms and quickly became good friends. Phoenix was beyond amazed with Y/n’s accomplishments and experiences. Every conversation led to a new discovery. “Do you ever burn out?” Nat stag criss crossed on Y/n’s satin pink bed sheets, admiring her wall of photos from when she traveled to see all the wonders of both the ancient and modern world. “I feel I’d be a walking corpse from exhaustion. And you mentioned you’re still running and designing clothes for ‘Dream Closet’?”

Y/n removed her diamond studs, placing them on her desk she was using as a vanity. “I have a team dealing with the business side of things for the brand. I’m still CEO and creative director—usually I work on designs for a couple hours before bed to prepare for the next launch.”

Nat was in awe, “I have to ask….what’s been the best career you’ve done so far?” A common question Y/n heard, there was never a true answer. She loved every career. They all had their perks and their flaws, but at the end of the day it left her satisfied she achieved them.

“I don’t know yet,” she spoke truthfully, “I still have a few to check off on my list. When that happens I’ll let you know.”

Fast forwarding to 2019, Y/n answered the phone to Admiral Simpson’s voice with the news she needed to report back to North Island for a highly confidential mission. The details were unknown, but Y/n packed her bags, loaded her pink vintage corvette convertible and high tailed it to sunny San Diego.

The squeals initiated by Y/n and Nat the moment she stepped foot in the Hard Deck had heads whipping in their direction. “Hi, Barbie!” Nat’s arms opened for a hug.

“Hi, Phoenix!” Y/n accepted the embrace, still grinning ear to ear. The guys around them were looking at each other like, ‘what the…?’ Y/n wasn’t in her standard Khakis like they were—minus Rooster. She bore a pink denim number with matching boots with her hair curled and pink eyeliner surrounded by tiny rhinestones.

“You got selected too?” Nat complimented her outfit before cutting straight to the point.

“For the special detachment? Looks like it,” she winked.

“What happened to the Artemis program? Weren’t you up as a candidate?”

“Oh I still am,” Y/n affirmed proudly, “They’ll be announcing who’s to be selected in the coming months. So for now I’m still with the Bounty Hunters. Plus,” she leans in to whisper, “this will look good on my resume.” The two giggle before Y/n drifts her gaze to the boggling gazes in front of her. “Oh! I’m sorry for being so rude. I’m Y/n L/n,” extending her hand to the first person who’s name tag read Fitch, Y/n added, “But you can call me Barbie.”

“Barbie,” the blonde holding a pool cue repeated like a question, “like the toy Barbie?” Nat chuckled, throwing an arm around her friend after she was done shaking everyone’s hand as they introduced themselves.

“Fellas, if there is anyone who is a life sized version of Barbie, it’s this one right here.”

“Now, Phee…” Y/n’s tone was that of, ‘Don’t start.’

“It’s true,” the pilot defended. “Not only is she Commander Y/n ‘Barbie’ L/n,” jaws drop, “but she’s Professor and Doctor L/n.” The jaws hit the floor, “On top of founder, creative director and CEO of ‘Dream’s Closet,’” Javy makes a sound, familiar with the brand, “Emmy nominated actress,” Fanboy chokes on his water, “Olympic Gold Medalist and soon to be astronaut for the Artemis program.” By now all the guys are on the verge of losing their minds.

Bob rapidly blinks, “uh—.”

“Now I’m not an astronaut yet,” Y/n points out, “I’m a candidate for one.” Nat scoffs lightly.

“They’d be stupid not to pick you, Barb,” she then slaps her side, turning back to the guys, “Oh and how could I forget Broadway, Vogue, and the Daytona 500.”

“Daytona 500!?” Payback practically screeches.

“You were on Broadway?”

“—featured on Vogue—?!”

“Wait a minute I recognize you from Star Trek!”

“—How in the hell—.”

“Guys, guys!” Y/n laughs with her hands slightly raised, “Please, one at a time.” They were in for a long night of questions and story times. And just like Nat was years prior when she first roomed with Y/n at Top Gun, the officers were in complete amazement over the woman in front of them. Never had they met anyone like her.

“Wow,” Jake whistled once she finished bringing them up to date on her most recent careers. “You really are a real-life Barbie.”

“Shhhh,” a finger went to her lips, followed by a wink, “don’t tell Mattel.”

And thus the dagger squad was formed. Two and half weeks of hell bearing training preceding a face-with-death mission brings people closer. Every morning Y/n arrived at the hangar to a chorus of “Hi, Barbie.”

She waved at Reuben, “Hi Payback.”

“Hey there, Barbie Girl,” Javy threw her a peace sign.

“Hiya, Coyote!”

“Good morning, Barbie,” Rooster tipped his hat.

“Mornin’, Rooster.”

“Hi, Barbie!” “Hi, Barbie!” Her favorite duo harmonized.

“Hi, Bob! Hi, Phee!”

And for some closer than others….

“You know I was thinking,” Jake commented, taking Y/n’s hand before leading her to the pottery class he signed them up for. Every Friday night was reserved for date night. Dinner and a movie. Walk on the beach. Spending $20 worth of quarters at an arcade. Attending a comedy show. Paint and sip. Following the successful mission, Jake and Y/n hit it off and began seeing each other.

“Famous last words.”

“It’s not bad,” a chuckle left his lips, stopping at the door. “I just thought it was funny. You know how you’re basically Barbie?” His cheeky smile resulted in her mirroring it.

“Yessss.”

“This means I’m pretty much your Ken, right?” The question makes the woman visible ‘awe’. Jake ruffles a hand through his hair and gives his best blue steel, “we kinda look alike. Don’t you think?”

Laughing, Y/n kisses his cheek, “I mean…name a more iconic duo than Barbie and Ken.”

“Barbie and Hangman?”

“Exactly.” It was safe to assume what their Halloween costumes were going to be.

Time went on, missions were run. And after a year of anticipation—though it felt like forever, it was finally announced in 2020 Y/n would be one of the astronauts selected to be part of NASA’s Artemis program launching in 2024.

Making Y/n the first woman to go to the moon.

The call came in from a restricted number when they were in a meeting, and knowing she was to expect a call within the month everyone quickly shut up so the pilot could answer.

She excused herself to leave the room, staying in front of the window so the team could see her. Throughout the conversation Y/n’s expression remained neutral to the point none had a clue whether the news was good or bad. Only when she reentered the room did they get the answer.

“I’m going to the moon!!!”

“Ahhh!!!!” The team exploded in an array of cheers, Y/n jumping up and down, careful not to drop her phone that was in her hands when Jake lifted her in his arms.

“I’m so fucking proud of you!” Despite being unauthorized to show pda in uniform, Jake gave her a big kiss on the lips, not caring who saw. “You are the most exceptional human being on this planet.”

“Jake,” tears welled in her eyes, which he kissed away. Her heart filled with warmth and gratitude. Feeling on top of the world with her closest friends supporting her.

Once all calmed down and they finished the meeting, Mickey jumped from his seat, “Come on Barbie, let’s go party!” Everyone sped to the Hard Deck to celebrate the news. Mav bought the first round, followed by Payback.

“Guys you don’t have to do all that,” Y/n said once she realized they all agreed to buy her drinks for the night.

“We want to,” Nat tapped her beer with Y/n’s cocktail glass, the guys voicing agreements. “For years you’ve been dreaming about this and it’s finally happening. Your hard work is paying off and we want to celebrate—show you we love and appreciate you, Barbie.”

Y/n fought back tears, never afraid to show her emotions. Some may find it childish or thinned skin, but to Y/n that was what being human was all about. “I love you guys.”

“We love you!” The voices echoed together.

The night had been going well with the squad hanging out by the pool tables like they usually did when Y/n approached the bar to pick up the next round Mickey was paying for. Not paying attention to those beside her, she smiled at Penny and repeated the order before waiting patiently.

But what’s a night at a bar without someone who lacks boundaries.

“You must be the one they call Barbie,” a voice says, flirtation seeping through the words. Glancing to her right, Y/n recognizes a gentleman from the flight line whose name she could not recall. “You’re quite the talk around base. In fact, weren’t you in some Hollywood blockbuster?”

“Yes,” she politely responds, keeping the answer short. Though she was known to be a sweetheart and kindhearted to anyone she met, Y/n could tell where the interaction was heading toward and did not feel comfortable entertaining it any further. “A long time ago.”

“I’m Lieutenant Paul Billings,” he extended his hand, and she immediately clocked he was trying to show off his rank. ‘Boy he’s in for a treat.’

Not wanting to make a scene, she accepts the handshake. “Commander Y/n L/n,” there was emphasis on the Commander, displaying the woman was of higher rank and therefore a silent warning to Billings to not cross a line.

There was a flash of surprise on his face. Y/n held back an amused laugh, ‘guess you didn’t hear everything.’

“Something the matter, Lieutenant?”

“No,” he brushes it off, “Nothing. Say,” he nods to the bar, “can I buy you a drink.” Did he not just hear her order a round for the people she came with?

“That’s kind of you,” she starts just as Penny arrives with a try full of cold beers and her usual cocktail. “But I’m all set, thank you.” Hands moving to take the tray, she jumps slightly at the feeling of his own coming to her wrist.

“What about lunch this week?”

“I’m sorry but I am spoken for, Lieutenant,” removing his hold, Y/n takes a step away.

Now Paul had lost his reasonable composure. Scoffing, he says, “What? Am I not enough for you?” The question results in her raising a brow.

“I beg your pardon?”

He makes a face, “You think because you’ve done all these careers and occupations that you’re better than the average person? I’m not a pilot and an actor or researching the cure for cancer while creating a documentary series,” venom seeps through his tone, obviously depicting his jealousy, “Basic is not up to your standards, so you have to throw our failures in our face as if we don’t already know.”

By now a crowd has formed. Jake started moving the second he noticed Billings etching too close to his girl, followed by Nat and the others who were ready to back him up. Behind the bar, Penny was fixing to ring the bell until being stopped by Y/n’s wave of the hand.

“Are you done?”

Paul’s expression was that of, “what?” No audible response was voiced therefore Y/n continued.

“Okay, I’m gonna go ahead and say this, Paul,” Y/n drops her shoulder. The change in body language let Jake and her friends know she wasn’t taking anything that the man said personally. “I know I should be offended by your insults and insinuations, but the truth is I’m not.” A small smile forms on her lips, “I don’t view myself higher than anyone because of what I accomplished. The only person I do that to, is myself—because I don’t have to prove to no one but me that I am capable of achieving what I set my mind to. And yeah,” a light chuckle escapes, “I’ve set my mind to a lot of things—way more than the average person. But that doesn’t mean you or anyone else can’t do the same.”

Pausing Y/n takes a breath before exhaling, “You look at me, and hate the way it makes you view yourself. Makes you believe you’re a failure because you didn’t follow the path you hoped to make for yourself.” Paul’s expression shifts to one of solemnity, like he was thinking of his younger self who had dreams and aspirations. Mourning what could have been.

It made Y/n sad for him. Empathetic despite him attacking her. “One thing I’ve learned over the years…is time is what you make of it. Life is about taking risks. You can still set out to do whatever it is you wish, as long as you’re committing to taking the risk no matter how scary it is. Sure you’ll find obstacles and it’ll feel like the whole world is against you. But determination will guide you through the walls, and you will be successful so that you can look back and think, ‘it was worth it.’ As cliche as it sounds,” she couldn’t hold back a laugh, “Barbie isn’t a person or an object you can obtain. Barbie is a mindset. And you have to unlock it in your own way, Paul.”

It was so quiet in the building, a pin could drop and everyone would hear it. Their looks of awe, admiration, and even newfound motivation by Y/n’s speech. Impressed by how classy she handled what very well could have been a scream match between rival squadrons.

Behind Billings the Dagger squad stood with proud smirks at their friend. Especially Jake, who caught Y/n’s eyes and threw her a wink. Nat gave the woman a salute, a silent gesture to say, ‘you inspire me everyday.’

And Billings? Well he was at a loss for words.

Patting his shoulder, Y/n grabbed the tray of drinks, “I wish you luck, Paul.” Thanking Penny, who gave her a proud nod and replied, “this ones on the house,” Y/n returned to her friends where she was met with a sweet kiss from Jake, claps on the back and “You go girl!” “Tell them who’s boss.” “Damn, you made me wanna go out there and live life the way I should.”

“What’s stopping you, Javy?” she handed him a beer, “the world is your playground.”

A couple hours later it was time to call it a night. Hugs went around, promises to meet up the following night and tabs were closed.

On their way out, Jake dropped a kiss to Y/n forehead, pulling her close to him as he led her to the door of the parking lot, “So what’s next for you, doll? You’ve proved you can be anything and anyone you chose to be,�� he grins at her, “What will you set your mind to now after space?”

“First, I want to write a book—I think that’s something a lot have been waiting for me to do. Afterwards, well, I’ll have to wait a couple more years, but,” The corner of Y/n’s lips lift up before flashing a dazzling smile, “I’m thinking….the Oval Office is in need of a makeover. Don’t you think?”

Then, before he could answer, Y/n turns her head in the opposite direction as if she’s trying to find a hidden camera. Makes eye contact with you, the reader, winking before turning back to Jake where she sets off on her next adventure.

…………….

TGM Tag List: @avaleineandafryingpan @caitsymichelle13 @poppyalice2001 @cutelittlepotatofry @luckyladycreator2 @americaarse @elenavampire21 @back-tooo-black @wildellaa @artemissunn @pinkpantheris

[sunsuns-babie]

XO (Only If You Say Yes) | NON IDOL!K.SUNOO x F!IDOL READER

💬: Certified Sunoo Haters Club 👺

Description of characters below ⬇️

SUNOO - Self proclaimed #1 Y/n from CUPETTES fan and runs the biggest Y/n fan account on Twitter ‘Strawberry Cake Y/n’s Hubby’. He does genuinely love her and is a bit delulu but not enough to be completely unhinged. He does know his boundaries as a fan of Y/n. He’s currently a college student just trying to graduate and doesn’t really want the spotlight on him, unlike his friends who have put themselves out there as public figures of sorts. Honestly Sunoo just wants to be in love with Y/n in peace and graduate from college with his degree in teaching.

HEESEUNG - A self sufficient Indie artist who’s on the rise with a bright future ahead of him. He’s been writing and producing his own music and is self taught at it. He is quite popular but hasn’t really broken in to the mainstream market yet. He funds all his music videos and helps directs them with some help from his friends. He even has his friends star in them with him, also with his dancer friend Niki helping him come up with some new choreographies for his new more mainstream “Kpop” era.

JAY - Is a pretty well known but still small YouTuber who’s known for his angelic covers and phenomenal guitar skills. He’s also Heeseung’s main music video director and does all the editing for him when it comes to his music promotional videos; whether that be the mvs, album track sample visualizers, concept films, etc. He also has a passion for fashion so he styles Heeseung a lot. Despite this though he himself is quite passionate about music and has been working on his own music projects, secretly for a while now. Oh, Jay also hates the comparison between himself Jay Park to the other Jay Park. Especially after his “fans” tried to say he was copying the other Jay Park, starting a smear campaign against him back in 2020.

JAKE - In the grand scheme of things at YouTube you could consider him a “small” YouTuber with only 2M+ subscribers but he is a popular streamer and gamer on both Twitch and YouTube. He has a devoted following that has opened many doors for him, making him successful in his field. Usually he does solo plays but a good half of the time he does gameplays with his friends Heeseung, Sunghoon, and Jungwon. Every once in a while Jay and Niki join in, while very rarely Sunoo agrees to join in.

SUNGHOON - A famous and even Olympic champion figure skater who’s started breaking into the typical celebrity world by guest starring in a few dramas and sometimes being a substitute MC for a few music shows, let’s not even get started on his modeling career. He has a very loyal fan base and is one of the youngest and most successful people of the current generation, making a name for himself through his hard work, dedication, and passion. His talent is great and unlimited, truly there’s nothing he can’t do.

JUNGWON - Is a college student alongside Sunoo and his best-BEST-friend since childhood. Because of their mutual friend Jake and his gaming streams Jungwon grew to like playing games and recording himself (since Jake filmed face cams of his friends when they played together all except Sunoo who wants to maintain his privacy). So Jungwon created his own Twitch channel where he streams random games here and there when he’s not swamped with college work. He mainly plays Minecraft and Roblox Dress to Impress though. Did I mention he’s openly gay and has a crush on Jay that only Sunoo and Niki know about?

NI-KI (RIKI) - The VERY youngest choreographer in the game, he is known as a dance prodigy, and works with many Kpop groups sometimes working as a backup dancer. He now mainly works with the girl group CUPETTES being credited as the choreographer for pretty much all of their choreographies. Not that his friends know that because he’s chosen to keep that fact to himself, mostly because in general he doesn’t talk about the celebrities he works with. He’s pretty famous himself with his own fanbase after going viral for his visuals in a fan cam for SHINee’s Key when he was a dancer for him and his choreographer in 2020.

masterlist | profiles (2)

taglist open 🏷️: @starlit-rin @onlyhyunjin @sol3chu @sugariricookies

[chiskz]

▶️ [슈취타] EP.5 SUGA with CHICHI

♡ 일본의 위대한 사랑의 함정에 빠졌다! / 게으른 고양이 vs 작은 호랑이 ! ♡ caught in the trap of Japan's great love! / lazy cat vs small tiger!

-> Suchwita (슈취타) is a variety web series starring SUGA (BTS). The series features him chatting with guests while enjoying alcohol.

《♡》 Chichi's SUCHWITA Profile:

Name: CHICHI

choreographer, main dancer and oldest member of Stray Kids

"Who wouldn't take the opportunity to get drunk for free in good company?"

♡ A charming choreographer straight from Japan. ♡ Don't be fooled by her deep voice and muscles!

《♡》 [ xxxx ] - editors' note

Chichi enters the room bowing to the staff. She stops in front of Yoongi.

"Ah, should I bow? Or shall we shake hands?"

"Ah, no, no, I should... I should... should I?" They both laugh and bow their heads briefly.

"Of course, I didn't come empty-handed!" She bows with her head a second time, handing Yoongi the pink box.

"Pink, I could have expected that!" He laughs and opens it carefully to reveal the contents - a bottle of Hibiki (name is censored) Whiskey. "You really want to get drunk tonight!"

"I rarely get the chance!" She laughs loudly and they finally sit down. "And it's actually a collector's edition, you can't drink it!" [ whiskey, not for consumption! don't touch, just look! ]

"We've met before, so you seem relaxed!" [ big meeting of two introverts! ]

"Yes, that's true. But we shouldn't talk about the circumstances of our first meeting."

"That's right... we really should take this to the grave." [ great mystery shrouded in an even greater mystery??? ]

"Should we get rid of the honorifics on this occasion?"

"Did we ever use them at all?"

Yoongi looks straight at the camera as Chichi laughs in the background. [ SUGA's thoughts: she keeps exposing us ]

"This is my second tiger visitor in such a short time." [ first was HOSHI! ]

"Yeah, but Hoshi and I are different tigers. He's... a real tiger and I'm just... a big cat?"

"No, I wouldn't say that. I've watched a lot of your shows, a few before you came here. You're both wild on stage, but you seem really dangerous. You are a tiger."

Chichi covers her mouth with her hands, editors draw her blushes. [ is that the dangerous tiger??? ]

"I also listened to your solo digital album, Member Branding. Your voice is as impressive as they say."

"Aren't you praising me too much?" Chichi laughs, trying to hide her embarrassment. "But wow, you really did some research."

"Of course, who do you think I am?"

"A lazy cat?" [ CHICHI, straight to the point! ]

"So quests bring the drinks?"

Yoongi blinks in surprise.

"She really wants to drink now!"

Chichi laughs and pulls out the second bottle of whiskey today, Hibiki Whiskey - "regular" edition.

"For you, so you're not sorry you can't drink the one I bought you as a gift!"

"Wow, now I can not touch it at peace!"

"This is my favorite whiskey. I got it as a gift from a good friend in Japan once. It's a light whiskey, with mild dried fruit, a bit spicy, but everything is in balance. I brought a flavor with toffee in it. It's good when you want to relax and not necessarily get drunk, so I thought it would be a good start."

"If this was an advertisement for this product, I would definitely buy it!"

"Oh, thank you! I don't have many opportunities to drink alcohol for fun, so sometimes I just drink something light, mostly with Minho."

"With Lee Know... with Minho. Yes, we know each other!" [ Lee Know, one of BTS' past dancers! ]

"Of course you know him. He was a good dancer, wasn't he?"

"That's right, I remember that. He was really good."

Chichi leans her elbow on the back of the chair.

"So he's even better now!" [ tiger mom attacks! ]

"You're studying."

"Yeah, law. I'll probably be graduating by the time this episode airs."

"Then Chichi from the future, congratulations!" [ lawyer and choreographer! ] "What made you do this? I'm not saying it's bad or super weird, but most idols like to live in the moment. College takes a lot of time, and you didn't seem to have much time with your activities."

"I understand, I had fears too. I didn't think I could do it, but I thought to myself... The future is very fragile and uncertain. I want to be an idol as long as possible and enjoy it as much as possible, but the time will come when I will leave the stage. I want then to know that I still have something to do. It required a lot of self-denial and a lot of sacrifice from me. But I wasn't alone, I had my members."

"Yes, BTS members are also my strength. I understand that perfectly." [ two cats deeply in love with their members ]

"It's often forgotten, but you're the oldest in the group, right?"

"Yeah! I forget that a lot too. I don't feel it at all unless Seungmin painfully reminds me."

"You've lived your whole life in Japan. I also know that you're really popular there."

"Thank you! You're really praising me a lot today, I'll think you want something from me!"

"It's not like that, really! I was just wondering why you didn't decide to pursue a career there."

"Ah, a career in Japan? I don't know, now you've made me think about it... J-pop is a good genre of music, but I feel like it's still more entertainment-oriented, which of course is great! But still, I was more intrigued by the k-pop groups' system. There's a lot more place to display here, more opportunities to create something like a little spectacle every time."

"Speaking of the spectacle, you also have an acting career on your account!"

"I wouldn't call it that!" Chichi immediately waves her hands in embarrassment. "But yes, I'm also interested in acting and I managed to get a role in some interesting productions. I think that playing different roles has always interested me, mostly I showed it on stage. But I'm not thinking about switching to acting completely, it's more my hobby."

"I also looked up some articles on the internet to get a better point of view from ​​your fans. I can say for sure that you have become a great support for them. I don't know how to put it correctly, but according to many, you don't fit the idol stereotype. When people think of an idol, they don't have someone like you in mind."

"Ah yes, I've seen that opinion too. I'm not trying to stand out by force, although most people think that's what I do. Why a male group if I'm a woman? Why did I force myself to go somewhere I didn't belong in? But honestly, I don't care about such opinions. I fell in love with Stray Kids and their music, and music is universal for everyone, I wish everyone would think in those terms, in terms like Does this make me happy? Do I like it? Do I love these people? Do I feel good doing this? Instead of thinking Is this for women? Is this for men? What will other people think? Others will not live your life. They will judge you, give you an opinion and forget about you. You are the person who will be with you all your life, not them. Do everything to make you feel good."

"I know J-HOPE shares your view of the world."

"Yes, I think that's why we immediately understood each other and became friends. Please look forward to our collaboration with DIOR!"

《♡》

_______________________

♡taglist: @g4m3girl , @smh-anon

[aliensubstance-011]

Timeline of events - Band AU

I want to get the timeline straight in my own head AND have it written out somewhere as reference... so where better than where everyone can see it as well!!

So- things kick of with Richie in middle school

Richie's Mom falls into a coma, and Richie moves in with Paul

He has his emo phase, and Paul buys him his bass

At this time he also sees Lex and Ethan who are ~2 years older than him

We move onto highschool- Junior year

Richie befriends Lex and Ethan (reluctantly) and hangs out with Hannah

Near the end of Junior year, Richie meets Peter and Ruth, they all become friends

Richie stops hanging out with Lex and Ethan as much, but still meets with Hannah/comes over to babysit regularly

Highschool - anywhere between the end of Junior year and the beginning of Senior year.

Richie starts smoking

Lex and Ethan drop out

Highschool - beginning of Senior year

Ruth and Peter discover Richie can play the bass, the three 'decide' to start a band

ensue fucking around for a good 3/4 months

Highschool - Mid senior year

Steph befriends Peter! Which leads to her befriending the rest of the Nerds as well

A few weeks later, Steph catches Peter writing lyrics and has A Moment

Steph discovers the band and joins in! The band forms structure and starts to actually produce songs

Max spots Richie playing and develops his one-sided attraction towards Richie (Similar to his 'crush' on Grace, though Richie does not return any feelings other than fuck you, Max.)

Max lays off the Nerds and starts 'flirting' with Richie (still, fuck you, Max)

Steph "convinces" Richie to stop smoking

Highschool - End senior year

The band- Now named Witchwood Worms- produce an album. 'Hatchet Town'

Its fucking BANGER and Hatchetfield goes mad- though the identities of Witchwood Worms is not revealed

(Paul knows. Paul is very, very proud. Ted does not know. Paul wants to gloat so bad)

'Hatchet Town' songs are played during prom- which the Nerds are allowed to go to

and Max notices that it's Peter who is singing- Max approaches Peter, attempting to be nice and compliment him, but fucking up somehow. (Pete is also giving feelings of, fuck you, Max)

Steph knocks some sense into Max- He needs to back off and sort his shit out instead of picking on people and flirting with Richie (because she noticed that, Max. fuck you.). Max rethinks his life decisions

College years (~3-4 years?)

Our main three Nerds go separate ways, but keep in touch. They'll meet again in Hatchetfield after they graduate.

Steph and Max stay in Hatchetfield

Steph goes to the community college to study Music Production

Max rethinks his entire life, fully accepts being gay and starts going to therapy. Steph approves, and starts talking to him. Gives him a second chance, or whatever.

Richie stops smoking fully!

Post College

Our trio return, freshly graduated and little baby adults.

Peter and Steph have this gross reunion and everyone else just stands there like. gross. including Max.

Everyone (bar Steph and Max himself) goes OH SHIT MAX. FUCK YOU, MAX

Max apologises and starts working towards making it up to the trio

Witchwood Worms starts to officially produce music- mainly as a side-hobby while they follow their dreams in Hatchetfield.

It gets POPULAR, and becomes a semi-fulltime thing

Max will always be their #1 forever and ever

[bluedalahorse]

Getting to know you tag game

Kiitos and tack to @sflow-er for tagging me! This was fun. Going to answer all my questions below. Maybe people will learn something new about me.

Do you make your bed?

No. It’s a loft bed so it’s sort of difficult to make, and no one sees it so there’s minimal incentive to do much with it. I mostly prefer to sleep in a nest of blankets.

What's your favourite number?

Nine. Odd numbers are fun and it’s three threes.

What is your job?

I don’t like to talk about it on tumblr, but it’s something in the education sector.

If you could go back to school, would you?

I am technically back at school at present, since I’m in a graduate program in writing part time. Honestly, I could just study forever and get paid to do so, without much extra strings attached, I would just go to university forever and major in a thousand different things while studying a thousand more.

Can you parallel park?

I cannot even drive, as it happens.

A job you had that would surprise people?

I used to work catering at my college, where I learned a lot about how to chop and prepare different vegetables and similar. The best thing about working catering was getting to take home leftovers. Also, chopping vegetables is a generally soothing thing for me to do when my anxiety is getting the better of me.

Do you think aliens are real?

Sure! Visiting earth seems unlikely (I mean why would you) but scientifically they have to be out there. I used to tell my mother I was an alien when I was a teenager.

Can you drive a manual car?

See above re: parallel parking. I think I’d be a lot more successful with a question about navigating city bus routes.

What's your guilty pleasure?

Hmm as I get older I am increasingly of the opinion that describing pleasures as “guilty” is something I’m too old and tired to do. Like, it would truly be not good for me to put food in this category. There’s also definitely favorite movies and books I have that I view with a cautious, critical eye (Lawrence of Arabia and Jane Eyre, for instance) but I don’t know if “critical consumption” and “indulging in guilty pleasures” are the same things. And I refuse to feel guilty for being an August and sargust enjoyer.

Like… I don’t know. Doll collecting? Is that a guilty pleasure? I currently wish my doll collection was making less a mess in my apartment.

Tattoos?

Not for me, but I’m glad for the people who like theirs.

Favourite colour?

Green, generally. For wearing, green again, as well as yellow and blue. (Or as I like to call them together, deconstructed green.)

Favourite type of music?

Gosh, hmm. I was going to say folk and progressive bluegrass, because a lot of stuff I like fits into that category already. (Nickel Creek, Punch Brothers, Sarah Jarosz, Aoife O’Donavan, I’m With Her, Rhiannon Giddens, Jake Blount, etc.) If the songs are murder ballads or songs about shipwrecks or whatever (shout out to “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” on the Punch Brothers album Hell on Church Street) all the better. I also realize I like a lot of music with classical/orchestral influences, but not necessarily like… traditionally classical. Today I’ve been listening to Kishi Bashi’s Omoiyari album on repeat and thinking about how Marigolds would make a great song for an ensemble YR fanvid.

I think my favorites will always be the artists who are absolute nerds for music and who will play with genre about it.

Do you like puzzles?

I don’t think I like puzzles, like they’re not always something I seek out, but I promise you that if you put a jigsaw puzzle or a logic puzzle in front of me I will hyperfixate until I figure it out. So I guess I like them.

Any phobias?

Mice. They like to come into my apartment when it’s cold. I would prefer they don’t.

Favourite childhood sport?

Gym class was the bane of my existence, but I also come from a sporty family, so I could kind of tolerate basketball for my athletic mother’s sake.

Do you talk to yourself?

Absolutely. When I was getting my neuropsych evaluation, the evaluator noticed that I was always talking myself through tasks in order to get them done. This is apparently what you need to do when you score 99th percentile on verbal intelligence but 2nd percentile on things like task initiation and executive function.

What movies do you adore?

I tend to be more of a TV and documentaries person than a movies person right now. That said, Greta Gerwig’s Little Women and the 2005 Pride and Prejudice are good comfort watches, as is Pixar’s Luca. I really like the Georgian movie And Then We Danced.

Coffee or tea?

Tea. Specifically, green tea. Coffee is yummy (I like bitter things sometimes) but doesn’t play well with my health.

What was the first thing you wanted to be growing up?

I wanted to be a writer pretty early. That said, the earliest written record I have of “what do you want to be when you grow up” was a first grade assignment where we had to answer that question. The two jobs I named were teacher and artist, specifically an artist who paints murals. (I misspelled the word “mural” because in the Baltimore accent I grew up with, mural is essentially one slurred syllable. Make me say Aaron earned an iron urn, I dare you.)

No pressure tags to: whoever wants them! I have not been on tumblr much lately so I don’t know who’s done this already.

[caninegoodnight]

got tagged by @dogboydeathgrips and the adderall had just hit

Last Song: atm i am currently listening to shit but the last song that just played was city of black fridays by mischief brew, who were the band that radicalized me and are like my all-time favs! theres no last album but ive had DROGAS Wave by lupe fiasco on loop for a couple weeks. very very lyrically and emotionally dense with good soundscapes. has quickly become one of my top 5 albums.

Favorite Color: bitches love purple

Last Book: "God Forgive These Bastards: The Forgotten Life of Henry Turner" by Rob Morton/Taxpayer. Companion piece to a jazzpunk album that, together, comprise a memoir of a fictional mad homeless man. Pretty iconic piece of punk among a certain section of people so it's fun to have a physical copy. I've been re-reading "Sea-Witch" by Never Angeline North lately, which is the most magical book in my life and what convinced me to throw myself into poetry a few years back.

Last Movie: very funny double feature of "Don't Be A Menace To South Central While Drinking Your Juice In The Hood" and "Eraserhead". looooove movies love watching as many as i can. i'm a huge letterboxd user, it's nice to have a way to log my opinions on shit

Last Show: either dorohedoro (my girlie jade proposed watching it but i ended up liking it more than she did) or... idr... i was watching dexter but then it got too transphobic to ignore. hoping for a better tv psychopath to come my way that i can project on soon inshallah. i need violence wish fulfillment. anyways ive been watching deadwood and twin peaks and buffy (which im enjoying more than i thought i would) lately too.

Sweet/Spicy/Savory: loooove spicy food i had vegan chicken not too long ago that made me actually sweat and it was awesome. the copout answer is that i really love food and think all flavor should be enjoyed with hedonistic abandon, so i politically have to be annoying here

Relationship Status: relationship anarchy is so awesome. i fuck whoever i trust that wants to fuck me and i set my boundaries wherever and i can shut down any feeling of obligation whenever i want. i can literally be okay with anything because it ALL requires negotiation, so it's helped me learn how to prioritize myself as someone who's experienced grooming & sexual violence. there are Special People for me who get to have their emotions factor in on my actions every so often, and that's a result of clear communication and mutual accommodation! i love talking to people about things

Last Google: i will leave out me trying to find pictures of obscure pro wrestlers. my last two searches on my phone are "separation anxiety dogs" and "how do you not bleed out during surgery", which, as i'm sure you might be able to guess by now, are related searches

Current Obsessions: forever 24/7 pro wrestling and combat sports autistic. been listening to a lot of rap lately and diving into a bunch of new albums. looove poetry its the point of all life. ive been thinking a lot as of late about madness and what my nature is. im also spiraling into depravity which is fun. not enough of my friends are around for me to bother them while i have free time. i wanna scratch at all of your doors!

Looking Forward To: i got a travel scholarship from my university lately which was a looong process! very excited about getting it. i talk constantly with my friends about moving in together and finding ways to intertwine our lives further. my best friend is with family right now and that demands a lot of its attention so im lightheartedly barking until it returns. im gonna graduate next year if i dont die. ive also recently re-committed to doing pro wrestling training after college so im excited about that. im gonna write a book of poems while traveling and shop it around. gonna watch terrifier 3 for the holiday and then continue to try and find the most fucked up horror and erotica i can ^w^. i have a coffee date planned with one of my friends for next month and i'm really excited about it. i like them a lot and i love our dynamic so i'm thrilled to spend more time around each other. i am too affected by The Spectre of The Bathroom Myth to say so much before i get an invitation to so consider this just a fun little sandwich for taste. oh holy shit wait yeah i have gender surgeries and legal changes down the pipeline too. i listed a lot here but things have been catastropic so its been therapeutic to get to talk about all of these good things, even if only in tumblr-appropriate details. there's so much to look forward to...

i'm gonna be so vulnerable and tag people. @nurse-dragonmaid @crunkotheclown @fuck im already forgetting what your urls are. @nesquikflavoredchapstick @mountain-deweys @sphinxgirlbaeddel @noinou @awoooniper @sylviii @trans-seraphim @transfemcombatclub @caintooth @teagrammy theres enough brain teasers for the dog for now. feel no obligation, and if youre upset i didnt tag you i didnt tag some people i thought of bc i got anxious so just imagine youre one of them ok?? <3<3<3<3<3

[chronotopes]

tagged by @eiqhties in a Song Meme Which Is About Songs :) thank you!

“Name 4 songs that you consider YOURS. Songs that no one else understands like you. Songs that they can try to pry from your cold dead hands.”

i don't like making prescriptive statements like that but here are four songs that i heard and went AUGHHHH and then never stopped going aughhhhh. oversharing to follow under the cut.

"city of gold," orville peck. on the list of Songs I Can Only Listen To Sometimes. in the summer of 2022 i would just drive around my hometown and listen to this one repeatedly hoping that it would cast a spell that only worked for a very little while. lol. that entire album came out as i was graduating college and had a lot of Things I Needed on it – this one is tied with "curse of the blackened eye" in some ways but this one is ultimately the heavier hitter.

"give it time," sierra ferrell. you know how sometimes you have to see a song live for it to hit properly? this is one example. outside, a hot day in early summer. sierra ferrell was like, "you think that you still need me? give it time," and i was like oooohhhhhhh. you give it time. (easy thing to say for someone who has given it time.) Seeing Sierra Ferrell Live is a very important accidental tradition for me and jenny, my second concert ever (as ever, not counting symphony orchestras and 2016s Accidental Julien Baker Live Performance), and also notably the thing i did on the one year anniversary of my friends death which felt like an important symbolic act for me.

"against pollution," the mountain goats. the previous two tie into very specific losses for me but this one is just the ultimate Feeling Things song for me. i played it for jenny for the first time on a night when we were driving around the rural areas surrounding our college town and feeling #unwell for interpersonal reasons but that song transcends every personal crisis and is about... i don't know, it's about a lot of things. it's about how when the last days come we shall see visions more vivid than sunsets brighter than stars we will recognize each other and see ourselves for the first time the way we really are. it's a threat and a promise. it's the best song in the whole world maybe.

last night, the lostines. "You are made of earth and wood / I love you all night if I could / When I lay down to fall asleep / I hope to see you in my dreams." Ending this list on a positive and also on a group i think everyone who likes dreamy folk music even some of the time should listen to (debut album out friday after next!!!) the lostines have several songs that are So About Me And Jenny It's Kind Of Crazy To Me but this song in particular was the first out of that series. every time i listen to it i still think about the same night of my life and (not to be a romantic on tumblr.com at age 24) i really think i will forever. i saw this song live and drunkcried about it. perfect song.

as before, tagging any mutuals who feel that this one calls to them

[moremusic]

This week’s guests are from my favorite city, New York. The Upsides play infectious music that will get into the core of your soul and leave you wanting more. Do yourself a favor and check them out!

Can you tell us a little history of the upsides. How did you meet and form?

My brother Matt (who is the lead singer and guitarist) and I have been playing together since I received my first drum set for Christmas in fourth grade. Matt DaSilva, our bassist, has been in different iterations of groups we’ve had over the years including a 90s covers band. Hopefully we’ve improved a little since those days. I met Hart (lead guitarist) in college although we never played in a band together there, we would just kind of jam together after a few drinks. I luckily ran back into him in Lower Manhattan after graduation and invited him to come to the next rehearsal my brother and I had lined up.

I am a big fan of your song “Jump In” can you tell me the meaning of this song?

Thank you! That one came about a few years ago and while all of our songs are collaborative, that’s a tune I had more of a hand in than others. Lyrically, it is really just about coming to a certain point in maturing as a person. Being more comfortable in your own skin and ‘jumping in’ if you will to who you actually want to be, rather than someone else’s idea of who you should be or what you should be doing with your life. It felt like a proper album opener particularly with the uptempo feel, sort of a “here we are” moment.

When you write, is it a band effort or does someone come to rehearsal with an idea or finished song?

For this first album, most of the songs were one person bringing forth an idea to the band that we would work together to fully form which was a great process. However, for the second album that we are beginning to work on we wanted to try to build songs from the ground-up as a unit in the rehearsal studio. We actually rented a cabin up in the Catskills in early July and had a really productive week forming ideas with that method. We’re really excited to finish out those songs that stemmed from a new writing process and it was invigorating to have a full blank canvas every day rather than quickly showing each other new ideas after a rehearsal in Brooklyn.

What is your career highlight?

It might be a toss-up between having our tune ‘Jump In’ played on either Pat Monahan’s (lead singer of Train) SiriusXM channel and also on WFUV 90.7 in New York City. We grew up covering Train in that aforementioned 90s covers band, and also grew up listening to WFUV which just had enough signal to make it to our hometown of Randolph, New Jersey. Shout out to Alisa Ali of WFUV who always supports local acts!

What is your favorite venue to play?

That would probably have to be Mercury Lounge right here in New York, where we had our album release show back in May. It’s an intimate vibe but always sounds great and has a great stage. You can almost feel the history of the bands who have played there over the years in the walls. And you can definitely see all the band stickers in the green room!

What does the next 6-12 months hold for you?

We’re going to be hard at work on album 2, hopefully finishing up demos for that by October and starting the recording process early next year. We’ll have a couple more shows in New York in New England to close out the year as well and then hopefully releasing more music as early as possible in 2025 and gigging in support of our second album!

What is your dream festival line up?

Speaking for myself, and keeping the list to a somewhat respectable number, I’ll go Cut Worms, Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever, Fontaines D.C., Arctic Monkeys, then Queens of the Stone Age.

If you could open for any band who would it be?

Funny you should ask, I just asked that question while we were killing time driving to a show in Philadelphia. I picked Spoon. I’ve seen them live a few times and they’re just a killer band who has been at it for awhile growing organically and are about as authentic as it gets in my opinion. Other picks I can remember were Alvvays and Fontaines D.C.

Who are your influences?

It’s definitely a mixed bag which is something I really appreciate. Honestly, and I’m not just saying this, the first Atlas Genius album was a big inspiration for Matt and I as we first started writing our own songs. And Hart even brought up how he was doing some “Atlas Genius guitar stuff” when we were up in The Catskills. We definitely first bonded over a love of The Strokes but have sought to differentiate our sound from them, as they’re an easy band to want to sound like particularly being from New York. I really love Australian bands like Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever and the feel of songs like ‘Jump In’ and ‘Grand Plans’ definitely comes from that influence. We all made pretty eclectic playlists of ten songs that were ‘mandatory’ listening ahead of the Catskills trip which was fun to see what ideas, even if it was just a quick drum pattern or chord progression, stemmed from that. Those playlists saw everything from Kevin Morby to The Chills (from New Zealand!) to Jonathan Richman to New Order.

If you were stuck on an island and could only take one record, what would it be?

‘Caravan’ by Van Morrison. I do have it on vinyl and it just instantly puts me in a good, nostalgic mood. Brings me back to sitting on the patio with my family growing up and is just timeless incredible music.

Fender or Gibson?

While I’m the drummer, I can definitively say Fender. Hart just got a new Fiesta Red Made in Japan Jaguar, so now we have just about every Fender option available other than a Mustang I believe. The Upsides arsenal includes a Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmater, Jaguar, Precision Bass and Jazz Bass all from Fender. We’re open to a Fender sponsorship!

Any upcoming gigs you would like to promote?

Yes we have a big one on Saturday September 7th at Bowery Ballroom in New York! That will be in support of our friends Gooseberry and their album release, and another dear friend B. Miles will be on the bill as well. And then Saturday October 26th we’re going to make our debut up in Portland Maine which will be a blast.

Lastly, where can people find out more about you?

https://www.instagram.com/theupsides_?igsh=OTl2dHg4c3cxc2Fr

[spgothkidsheadcanons]

Let me introduce you to my headcanons:

Hey Guys! I figured I would go ahead make a post about this, too. I love making announcements, I don’t know if you could tell or not XD

But, I would just like to put this out there in the air that I started this blog with the idea of grown up goth kids. Hell, I don’t even want to call them kids, but that’s all I could think to call them! That’s what they’re known as XD

So here’s just a list to let you guys know how old my Goths are for this blog and little tidbits about them:

Michael:

Michael is 26. He lives in an apartment with himself and his cat on the outskirts of Denver, Colorado. He’s the lead singer in a semi-famous band, in which he makes a good amount of money in order to live on his own. In his free time, he does a bunch of sleeping and writing, trying to come up with new albums and filling out his poetry book that he wants to publish. He dresses kinda grungey (see 90’s Nirvana), and he’s semi-embarrassed about how hardcore he claimed to be as a child. He still harbors anger problems, but he pretty much can get himself under control.

Henrietta:

Henrietta is 23. She lives in her own home in Los Angeles, California, where she moved to after she graduated highschool. She’s a plus size model for a goth clothing brand, and her dreams are to quit modeling and make her own clothing company. She lives with her girlfriend, Katie Gelson (or (Y/n) in fanfics), and she mostly works from home. She dresses very normally, mostly sporting some ripped black jeans, a graphic tee and some kind of plaid jacket. She has accepted her parents and has them over at least once a month for dinner or just to hang out.

Pete:

Pete is also part of the 23 gang. He still lives in South Park with his uncle. They used to live in a trailer, but through years of working and saving up, he bought his uncle a house when he was 20. His best relationship is with his uncle, who raised him for years after his parents gave him up for adoption. Pete dropped out of highschool at 17 due to having to work 2 jobs to support himself and his uncle, but he went and got his GED and enrolled in an art program at the local college. His personality is very different than when he was a kid, but his style pretty much stayed the same through the years

Firkle:

Firkle is 15. He still goes to school at South Park High. He never knew his parents because they put him up for adoption when he was a newborn. When he was a kid, his fascination with butterfly knives unfortunately caused him the loss of his finger. He kept foster home hopping because he was a menace to everyone. That was until he was 9, and a nice, middle aged woman gave him a chance. Since his adoption, Firkle has changed his personality a lot, easing off on being an asshole and instead just acting like a apathetic goth kid. He hangs out with Karen now that the others have graduated. The only one he still speaks to is Henrietta, because she’s the only one who was willing to speak to him after the whole “Emo” incident.

[ericstoltz]

life update

hi!!! this is me presenting a proof of life post (after being away for a few months) 🥺

the first half of the year has been very very challenging for me, and it's mainly why i ended up not posting something after april this year

april - may

i had some personal things come up in late march and majority of its aftermath was severely felt in april -- that's probably the only thing i remember from that month. may was a pretty weird time since i though everything would be okay by then, but it turns out it was the mark of a 'point of no return' for me. i had my 24th birthday and it's probably the worst i've ever experienced, but i don't think i'll ever let allow myself to forget what happened since it's another mark of growing up for me.

some personal stuff aside, i've managed to watch some movies during those months (and it's mostly to distract myself from the bad vibes i've been experiencing). for april, my white boy of the month was roger daltrey -- i adore him a lot. i can't remember how i ended up listening to the who during that time, but i really loved their 'sell out' album (listening to it for the fist time was an Experience) and i ended up watching their concerts during most nights. my favorite first watches in april were: Class Rank (2017), Snack Shack (2024), Tommy (1975), Lisztomania (1975), and McVicar (1980).

for may, i only ended up watching 6 movies with leo dicaprio as my semi-white boy of the month -- i started watching some of his movies in late may because we've had rainy weeks and i thought his movies were fit for a rainy day. my favorite first watch was: Catch Me If You Can (2002). i also saw the basketball diaries (1995) that month and although it's a 2.5 star review for me, i thought the movie was pretty fitting to watch that month considering what has happened.

june

it felt like i was on a limbo last june, but i did manage to finish a journal. i started writing things down on a spare notebook in late april and i finished it all up in june, it was therapeutic and it made me motivated to keep a journal not for my future self, but to help my present self. i guess that may be the reason why i haven't been writing life updates here, i wanted to try writing things down for myself first to process everything and then filter out what i really feel about things (?), also scrapbooking when you have mementos is really fun. i also met up with some college friends that month and it was really REALLY fun -- i haven't been in touch with so many friends since i graduated so seeing them again gave me a major serotonin boost. i also finished a 500-piece puzzle that month which was this one:

i got 2 puzzle pieces on sale during father's day and i had some time off work so i was really happy i got to finish it (it's the first ever puzzle piece that i've ever finished). the other set was this one which i haven't started yet:

another major thing that's happened in june was the fact that i sadly have to give up my phone since someone lost theirs, so i opted to use my old phone, which, fun fact: i got for my 18th birthday. it's still pretty strong (except for the weak chipset for current apps), but it's still really usable (to my surprise). it made me remember how much i've been through with that phone and i think i won't give it up yet because of its sentimental value and the day it retires will probably be really sad for me. i'm now a fan of using devices until it dies down instead of constantly upgrading, i think it's really fascinating to see how long they'll wear out (which is a weird thing to say coming from someone w a job like mine ??).

anyway, i saw some matthew mccounaghey movies that month and i still can't spell his last name properly. my favorite first watches were: How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003), I Could Never Be Your Woman (2007), and St. Elmo's Fire (1985)

july

after watching st. elmo's fire in late june, i found out that andrew mccarthy made the Brats documentary and it was funny for me because i read his memoir last year. but the documentary still manage to make me miss him so i ended up reading his book 'Just Fly Away', it wasn't that great but, hey, it's andrew mccarthy. this july, i also tried to read more books for some reason and i ended up buying my workmate's old tablet -- it still works fine and i'm currently using it as an e-reader. i'm still deciding whether to buy a kindle or not because it's really tempting to get one and because i also wanted to try the display they always brag about... here's my july reading wrap-up!

i haven't seen that much movies this month and it would probably stay that way since i want to read more :) this may be the comeback of bookworm bea

if you've read up until here thanks so so much and pls know that ily. one thing i learned from this experience of being offline is how much i miss being part of little communities where ppl get to share stuff they like :( i haven't been part of something for so long and i really want to try joining again, but don't really know where to start... i know the easiest may be here on tumblr but i find it really hard to join and gain mutuals here :( the easiest may be on twitter/x but i think everything is so noisy over there nowadays (not just because there's so much people but because of the messy feed and constant adds), i've been thinking of joining bookstagram, but i'm not very ~aesthetic~ enough and i feel like everything is mostly likes and followers over there :/

if you can suggest me something please please do let me know! i really want to make friends w ppl love movies, reading, and exercising! (those are the things that i do in my free time often!!)

thanks so much again for reading and i hope you have a rad day !!!!!

[weaversweek]

39 "Stay (I missed you)" - Lisa Loeb

Written by Lisa Loeb

Part of the UncoolTwo50 project, marking the best singles from 1977-99.

Piano lessons, musical theatre, guitar, stanning David Bowie. Just some of the components of a Texas youth; in this case, of Lisa Loeb. Resolutely independent, she had graduated from Brown college, gone through Berklee College, made her mark on the New York singer-songwriter scene. She was still on a teeny-tiny indie label when this song hit the big time in summer '94.

"Stay" is a sweet breakup song: Lisa and her paramour are considering whether to part, still hold tender feelings for each other, and Lisa is working through her feelings. The verses are unabashed displays of emotion, a stream of consciousness with so many "and…" sentences. The brief chorus pulls it back a little to be quite tender.

The whole song has an intimate vulnerability, and we feel like we've been through the wars with Lisa. A quiet stormer of a hit: it doesn't feel like it's a big deal, then it creeps up on us and we realise she's put us through the wringer.

Came to the attention of Lisa's neighbour Ethan Hawke, who insisted it be used in his new movie Reality Bites, where it underscores the closing credits; Hawke also directed the video, where Lisa's dewy and romantic and not really that angry.

The rest of the movie soundtrack is so-so (Juliana Hatfield's "Spin the bottle" the other track that's lasted), and Reality Bites itself is not a great movie - less The Breakfast Club and more RI:SE with Winona Ryder and Christian Stiller. The authentic jerk is preferable to the corporate sellout, a none-more-mid-90s conclusion.

Lisa is a bit shy, clearly well-read - "Nine Stories" an allusion to JD Salinger - and she comes across as sweetly innocent.

Since 1994, she's made a number of not-as-successful albums, was feted on the Lilith Fair tour as one of the crowd made good. There was a short-lived cookery show, branched out into children's albums, won a Grammy for Feel What U Feel. There's also a brand of Lisa Loeb spectacles, because of course there is. And she co-wrote a New York Times crossword; no word yet on the Lisa Loeb Connecting Wall.

Other #UncoolTwo50 matters: Juliana Hatfield made my longlist of about 550 with "My sister" but didn't make the top 100 cut. Lisa's boyfriend of the time was Juan Patino, who produced another longlister Jewel's "You were meant for me". Another singer-songwriter from Texas, Edie Brickell, made the shortlist with "What I am", fell short because I've already got too much from 1989. Fellow Dallas mid-90s alt-rockers Deep Blue Something… we've not seen them yet, have we?

[seaofreverie]

Happy 1st anniversary to The Girl Is Crying In Her Latte! I felt like sharing some thoughts on the album for the occasion.

I rarely though about it until this very moment, but I just realized that I can definitely consider this album very special to me personally. Of course, most importantly it was the first album to come out after I learned about Sparks, and my 3rd album that I listened to from them overall, soon after Kimono My House and Propaganda. I already started considering myself a fan around then, but on the more casual side still I suppose (even though I could already tell by then that this was no random band I was getting interested in, but the start of a major hyperfixation, and, well, I was more than right about that). Still, I was definitely already looking forward to this album and planning to listen to it the day it was released. And so I did, and I loved it right away! The day of its release ended up being the same day that I was moving out of somewhere that I stayed the previous two years while studying, and my graduation was coming soon too. So now it has a bit of an end of an era feel to me too. I also remember listening to it a bit later, while visiting a city I've wanted to visit for a while during summer holidays... Some pleasant memories all around definitely.

Since that first listen I've actually had some slightly more mixed feelings about the album. I didn't think it was lacking or anything, I do think it's a brilliant album. Still, I couldn't help but feel like something was slightly "off" about it as a whole whenever I tried to listen to it, so I just had to start appreciating some of the songs on their own before I could come around to the whole album again. Which took a couple of months in the end, but I also have to keep in mind that in that time I was doing lots of catching up with the huge Sparks discography and all those related things, and putting most of my attention to that. I can definitely tell that I love this album now, both for what it is in itself and what it means to me too.

As for some song highlights, Veronica Lake was an early favourite both on this album and in that portion of Sparks' discography that I knew by that point, and it's still one of my favourites on TGICIHL. A Love Story also stood out quickly, I just think it's very fun and the kind of "weird" that I often end up loving in music. A bit later, and especially towards the end of last year, It Doesn't Have To Be That Way became THE song for me from this album however. A big part of it is the lyrics of course, I think it's fair to say that it's one of the most, let's say, relatable?, personal? that possibly ANY song has ever felt to me. Especially the following lines:

They always said that you need to have a plan

Doesn't matter, any plan, any plan they'll understand

It doesn't have to be that way, okay?

As I said, I graduated since, but felt pressured to make the next move in life immediately. It's like I wasn't even allowed to think about where I am now and where I could possibly go next, or even think about how, despite the hardships that came with it, I managed to finish my studies. Not to mention that post-graduation times turned out to be the start of my burnout that has only gotten worse progressively... Not being able to catch a real break without having to make SOME sort of decision, even if it was just continuing my studies with a different field of study, felt truly draining. So it was comforting to hear this sort of reassurance that it's alright if I don't have a plan or don't know where I should go next and if I feel lost and helpless most of the time. And it reminded me of the absurdity of making plans just so that you can say that you have some sort of plan, even if you don't truly want it or feel like it's the right way to go. So, well, actually: screw it! Try things and ditch them! I have since decided to drop out of my new college because it wasn't bringing me anywhere, it was just a "plan they'll understand", and I'm very glad I did.

To be completely honest for a second here, I often got sad (...to put it lightly, haha...) over the last couple of weeks, thinking back to the time of the release of this album and the accompanying tour that I'd later learn was a wonderful tour full of amazing and iconic moments. It wasn't just that I didn't get to see them in concert then, but that I also missed out on observing most of the tour fun as it was happening. Of course I caught up on it later, but, well, can't help but feel some kind of gloomy way about it all anyways, as you'd understand. But still, can't stay locked in the past yearning to relive it (but this time... properly?) forever, so I'm excited for what other wonderful things the future will bring! Sparks never stop going forward after all, so neither can I.

[skidqrow]

Sonic Fandub Prompts

- - From various Snapcube Sonic Fandub videos - - Mostly crack with some angst and flirting thrown in. Add + 🔁 to reverse Adjust for pronouns as needed! (Warning for language & drug mentions.)

"Cya, nerd!"

"I can't believe your tits are only one polygon!"

*sigh* "I miss my wife, [name]. I miss her a lot. I'll be back."

"No! It's too late! You've already made up your mind!"

"You've done nothing but ruin my life."

"Can you guys, like, stop having relationship issues while I'm on the phone with my dentist?"

"I'm taking the world by storm! I'm gonna drop my newest album: [insert funny title here]!"

*gasp!* "[Name], my long-lost lover!"

"If you say 'please stop' one more time, I'm going to piss my own ass!!"

"Get reckt, you fat scrub man."

"WHAT?!? You are not allowed to fuck my wife!!"

"I'm going to kill you......and then kill you again!"

"How do you think I feel getting cucked by a hedgehog?!"

"Well, it might upset you to find out that I also fucked your wife."

"AND SHE HAD A DIAMOND IN HER VAGINA?!??"

"Except I'm not gonna piss on the Earth!! I'm gonna go higher! I'm pissing ON THE MOON!!"

*villainous laughter* "Welcome to Tilted Towers."

"Welcome to my house. As you can see, I've knocked over many chairs because I get so TiLtEd at the ToWeRs."

"I'd like to be in the friendzone! I like friends!"

"But unfortunately, as a gamer, I don't get respect."

"Well I'm not a gamer, so maybe they'll respect me?"

"...That just makes you a beta cuck."

"Speak for yourself, motherfucker!"

"...Yep. I can kill you."

"Good luck with that; I have weed."

"Bye, guys, I-I'm peacing out. I'll let you deal with this."

". . . . . ." *frustrated sigh* "The Caucacity of this bitch."

"Look around you! Imagine......dragons."

"If someone hacked my Fornite account I'm going to have a birth of cactuses out of my asshole."

"You silly-minded, feeble little gay."

"I'll be as hard on him as I wanna be."

"I'm almost proud of you."

"You are still my bitch."

"NOW EVERYONE'S MY BOYFRIEND!!"

"I will put you in the dungeon."

"You would never replace us with somebody else...promise?"

"Not unless you did something lame or stupid or uncool."

"I'm out. I'm done with this shit."

"Honestly, I'm not fucking with any more RedBoxes. Last time I did, it spit a bunch of quarters at me."

"I almost drowned like Scrooge McDuck!"

"You just left me to die!"

"Top 30 Reasons Why [Name] is Sorry...number 5 will surprise you."

"Well. . . I can't think of anything!"

"You can't go! You are a bitch! You gotta stay here!"

"Each of these cursors represent one of my--" *wheezes* "--my tentacles."

"Back in 19-odd-7, when I first graduated from [college], I remember learning--"

"Looks like college was no match for classic street learning!"

"You ableist piece of shit!"

"[Name], do you think I've been a dick to everybody?"

"[NAME]?!?? IS THAT YOU?? Have you finally come to put me out of my misery?!"

"I'll sin in my own way!"

"I kicked them so hard they turned into dogs."

"I've eaten nothing but drywall for the past three years."

"New idea. . .adultery."

"The sound effect on this gun isn't very edgy."

"...Something just happened."

"I need to update my audio equipment." *reloads gun* "I've updated my audio equipment."

"I made all of these because I want them to take over Apple."

"Well, you know what they say: You kill someone and you get all of their sin points."

"BOMBS??"

"Yippee! I can die happy tomorrow!"

"Dem's the breaks, pal."

[randomvarious]

Today’s compilation:

These People Are Nuts! 1989 New Wave / Punk Rock / Alternative Rock / College Rock / Post-Punk / Power Pop / Ska

Here's a nice retrospective rundown of one of the greatest and most eclectic indie labels of the 1980s: I.R.S. Records, which was headquartered in the US, but had a whole lot of UK bands on its roster too. Founded in 1979 by a guy named Miles Copeland, I.R.S. started out primarily as a punk outfit, but as new wave proceeded to develop, it sunk its teeth firmly into that movement too, landing a bunch of acts along the way whose material was considered to be strange, zany, quirky, and campy, like Oingo Boingo and Timbuk 3.

But between all the acts that ultimately end up lending to this album's title being These People Are Nuts! are a bunch of bands who aren't considered to be all that weird too, like The Police, The Go Go's, Buzzcocks, R.E.M., and Fine Young Cannibals. So, what we really have here is a nice blend of genuinely good punk and alternarock with straight-up enjoyably silly and irony-laden new wave.

But this album that celebrates I.R.S.' tenth-year anniversary actually opens with a song that predates the label's existence entirely: it's the B-side of the debut record by the band that Miles Copeland's brother, Stewart, happened to play drums for: "Nothing Achieving," by The Police, a terrific classic rock-punk tune that was released in 1977 on another one of Miles' labels he had founded beforehand, Illegal Records.

And another great tune from those pre-I.R.S. days comes courtesy of a little-known band called The Electric Chairs, who, at the time, were fronted by a performer named Wayne County, who now goes by Jayne County. County is someone who holds the honor of being rock music's first openly trans vocalist, and she ended up working with a lot of famous people throughout her career, including David Bowie. Plus, she was also at the Stonewall Riots. So, she's an absolute legend, to say the least, and her band's punk song, "Thunder," which predates her publicly identifying as a woman, was released on Illegal in 1979.

Also, have you ever wondered where the great Fatboy Slim derived his stage name from? Well, it probably came from Maryland's Root Boy Slim, a brilliant and eccentric rabble-rouser who went to Yale and then came back on homecoming weekend the year after he had graduated and got kicked out and permanently banned from his frat house by none other than future war criminal president George W. Bush himself. His song, "Dare to Be Fat," kinda-sorta answers the question of, "what if Frank Zappa was a black blues-rocker?"

And there's a bunch of other songs from this compilation I could write about too, like The Go Go's’ "We Got the Beat," a landmark new wave tune that convinced the group to head towards a sound that was more new wave than punk; or the Buzzcocks' "Ever Fallen in Love," which presented a pretty perfect mix of late 70s punk rock and power pop; or Fine Young Cannibals' debut single, "Johnny Come Home," which showed the world this band's signature mix of rock and ska, along with Roland Gift's uniquely satisfying and tender voice.

But I think I'm gonna dedicate a few sentences to a deeply misunderstood song instead: "The Future's So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades," by Timbuk 3. If you've ever heard this top-20 mid-80s hit before, then there's a pretty solid chance that you're among the many people who think of it as quite possibly the dorkiest song that the new wave era ever spat out.

I mean, peep this refrain if you're not familiar:

I'm doing alright Getting good grades The future's so bright I gotta wear shades

Now, is it possible that this song was made in a sort of tongue-in-cheek backlashing kind of way in response to all the live fast-die hard, sex-drugs-and-rock n' roll music that was going around back then? Sure, I guess so. But the song wasn't even really so much as that. It was more about the banality of contributing to an evil system and feeling as though you were on the right path. See, "I Gotta Wear Shades" is told from the perspective of a young nuclear scientist at the height of the Cold War, and that brightness in the future he refers to is actually referencing the potential detonation of the nukes that he's been working on. It's a really cleverly-made song that became a pretty big hit, but people never really seemed to understand the message that was behind it. It certainly wasn't a song to celebrate strait-laced, apple-polishing nerds.

So, there you have it: a nice and varied set of songs from a transcontinental indie label that played a big role in shaping new wave, punk, and alternative rock through its first ten years and change. There wasn't really any other label that was quite like I.R.S. Records. A lot of names that would end up defining eras and styles, along with some real kooks too.

Highlights:

The Police - "Nothing Achieving" The Go-Go's - "We Got the Beat" Wayne County & The Electric Chairs - "Thunder" Root Boy Slim - "Dare to Be Fat" Buzzcocks - "Ever Fallen in Love?" Wall of Voodoo - "Mexican Radio" R.E.M. - "Superman" Doctor and the Medics - "Spirit in the Sky" Timbuk 3 - "The Future's So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades" Fine Young Cannibals - "Johnny Come Home" Concrete Blonde - "It'll Chew You Up and Spit You Out"