#happy republic day video song

[ofmdrecaps]

10/27-28/2024 Daily OFMD Recap

TDLR; Happy (Belated) Birthday Fernando Frias!; Happy Babe Day!; David Jenkins & Alex Sherman; Rhys Darby; Taika Waititi; Samba Schutte; Vico Ortiz; Ruibo Qian; Kristian Nairn & Nathan Foad; Guz Khan; Anapela Polataivao; Dominic Burgess; Christopher Corbin; Articles; Love Notes;

== Happy Birthday Fernando Frias! ==

Okay so I'm late again because that is my life right now-- but Happy belated birthday to Fernando Frias! (Oct 27th!) Fernando was not only our Director but also a member of the Siete Gallos!

Img Src: NPR

== Happy Babe Day ==

What more can I say? Happy Babe Day to all who celebrate!

Source: Samba's Twitter

Samba also posted another video (but tumblr only allows me the one per post!) so you can see that over on the repo if you don't have access to twitter.

Source: Samba's Twitter

== David Jenkins & Alex Sherman ==

Well, first off, our friend @/heyhayley on twitter coined a lovely new term, and David seemed to like it to! Gentlebabe it is!

Source: David Jenkins Twitter

Next up, David and Alex were kind enough to answer several fans requests for which writers came up with which jokes!

Source: David Jenkins Instagram

Source: Alex Sherman's Replies

== Rhys Darby ==

There is just all sorts of Rhys Darby news going on-- I don't even know how to keep track of it all! First up, wanna see Rhys Curling? Check out @mon-ster-chen's post with the video!

Next up-- Another clip from Rhys' 25th Anniversary show is up on his Substack for subscribers!

Source: Rhys' Substack

== Taika Waititi ==

Taika and Rita were out at the World Series!

Source: Instagram

Source: Instagram

Rita's mother Vera is still posting pictures and videos from Japan-- here's some sneaky Taika shots from the trip!

Source: VeraOra's Instagram

== Samba Schutte ==

Samba recently voiced the shapeshifter Hemming on Monster High! It's available on Paramount Plus, Hulu, and Youtube as well as many others!

Source: Samba's Twitter

== Vico Ortiz ==

Vico talked more about voicing Tanlorin on ElderScrollsOnline! If you wanna check out some more BTS from the ElderScrolls Game, check out their Patreon !

Source: Vico's Instagram

Vico and Jack also shared some adorable pictures with everyone <3

Source: Rabbit Glitter's instagram

== Ruibo Qian ==

Instagram has decided it's done with me for the day and will NOT let me paste in any more videos, so here's a screencap-- but please visit the link to hear our Pirate Queen singing a beautiful song she wrote!

Source: Ruibo's Instagram

== Kristian Nairn / Nathan Foad ==

Kristian and Nathan had a VERY Busy weekend! First off, Kristian received such a beautiful token of love from all you crewmates who took pics with his new book!

Source: Kristian Nairn's Instagram

Next up, Nathan and Kristian were out at the MCM Comic Con in the UK, and as usual Nathan was keeping the silly vibes going!

Source: Nathan and Kristian's Instagram Stories

In addition-- our crewmates over at @adoptourcrew had correspondents at MCM Comic Con and they are working on a video/quotes from Kristian's Panel! Thank you to all involved in that!

Source: Adopt Our Crew's Twitter

== Guz Khan ==

Just Guz being goofy with the folks from Man From Mobeen!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Guz Khan (@guzkhanofficial)

Source: Guz Khan's Instagram

== Anapela Polataivao ==

Auntie is going to be joining Vela Manusaute on a new project! "‘A Niu Dawn’ will see a creative collision of unexpected pairings, working to discuss and reframe the narrative of the Dawn Raids from a very urban perspective, to process some of the pain and enable our communities to focus on a hopeful and prosperous future for all people of Moana Oceania." - The Guerrilla Collection Website

Source: The Guerilla Collection Instagram

== Dominic Burgess ==

Our beloved Jeffrey Fettering is going to be on NCIS!

Source: Dominic's Twitter

== Christopher Corbin ==

You may remember our friend Christopher Corbin, aka "We could have made Magic" man from the Republic of Pirates in Season 1, and he's just out making goofy videos that made me giggle snort so I had to share-- thanks for the laugh sir!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Christopher Corbin (@cccorbin)

Source: Christopher Corbin

== Articles ==

Thank you to @adoptourcrew for sharing this very cute article on couples halloween costume ideas -- feature ofmd as one of the options!

Source: Adopt Our Crew Tumblr

== Love Notes ==

Hoo boy. There's been a lot over the last couple days. Sorry again for the delays crew.. and thank you so much for all the kindness and love you've been sending to me and my dad.

I just wanted to say tonight that it's been so damn lovely seeing everyone happy again. Sure there's been some conjecture too as there always will be with big fan events, but for the most part-- the pure amount of joy and fun that came out of Babe Day and the S2 Finale Anniversary was something that recharged my tired heart with love. Especially with David, Alex, Samba, and everyone else who joined into the mix answering questions or sharing BTS. The fandom feels electric and alive, and I hope we still stay that way going forward until we inevitably hear about S3 (I'm manifesting, you can't stop me!). I truly hope your week is filled of fun, and joy, and love and that you get some much needed rest. Take care Crew <3 Thinking of you.

[redstringraven]

For Cassia: 3, 8, 11! And for Nyxram: 1, 6, 11!

<:D!! AAAAA thank you so much!

Secret Ask List

-------------------- .: • CASSIA --------------------

3) what song describes your oc?

cassia is one of those ocs where the music i find for her playlist is almost all vibes and not really based on lyrics. it's the energy of the music, the way it makes you wanna move or bob or sing along. that being said: "rage" by hyper crush and "joyride" by kesha immediately make me think of her. lyrically, "i love it" by icona pop might be a good fit.

8) what hobbies does your oc have? what do they do to unwind?

cassia's major hobby is rollerskating! but she's also super into street art, and she enjoys beautifying her favorite areas of new york in a manner of silly or meaningful ways. when she's at home, she also enjoys random doodling--mostly ideas for graffiti or future street art--learning dances from her favorite music videos, and playing a variety of video games.

11) what was your inspiration for your oc?

i distinctly remember driving to my local movie trading company to see if they had any physical dvds for tmnt'03, and "girlfriend" by avril lavigne came on spotify shuffle. for whatever reason, i got the image of a pink-haired girl in rollerskates, and she wouldn't leave my head. cassia's my first tmnt oc, and i think she was always meant to be kind of like april in that she's a grounding presence in their otherwise chaotic lives. despite how high-energy and mischievous she is, she's extremely stable and does regularly go to therapy, which has made her more thoughtful and aware of others along with herself. her biggest conflicts come from being an out trans-girl in the 90s and early 2000s, but none of it is tied to her immediate family (her parents ADORE her). she is, for the most part, about as ''''average'''' a civilian in the tmnt'03 world as you can get. i dunno! i think i kind of just wanted to give them all another anchor of sorts, another safe haven. cassia's parents, oliver and esme, also become guardian figures to the turtles in a sense (especially mikey). esme loves to mother them.

-------------------- .: • NYXRAM ----------------------------

1) does your oc have a voice claim, if so who?

god yes. nyx's voice claim is shohreh aghdashloo. the moment i heard her as enforcer grayson in arcane, i pointed at the screen and muttered: "you". as someone who's very picky about these sorts of things i seriously feel like it was gift-wrapped to me. >xD shohreh also provides the voice for the dragon in damsel, which is a dumb as hell movie but i will continue to listen to it for the sake of hearing her talk.

6) if your oc is in a fantasy setting, what profession would they be in the modern day?

kind of a weird question, since 'modern day' implies that this is more a difference in time period? e-e;; i imagine she'd likely still have assassin roots, but. after the rebellion succeeds, the republic begins to rebuild, and the games are disbanded, nyxram takes it upon herself to use her family's "estate" as a sanctuary for the animals used in the games, since most of them can't be returned to their natural habitats due to injuries and/or being raised in captivity. so! i think a potential "modern day" or "human" profession for her might be owning and managing something like an old friends senior dogs sanctuary. providing housing, love, and comfort for older animals when most folks want younger pets, and ensuring that their last few years are happy and safe. she's taken so much life, so... it feels like giving back, in a way.

11) what was your inspiration for your oc?

@/plantdonut doesn't live with me (alas), but if she did, i would have turned to her during our '03 rewatch a few years ago and asked, bluntly, "why do all the triceratons gotta be dudes? where're my giant, amazon warrior dinosaurs?". and within a few days, i was practicing my hand at drawing triceratons, so i could make it so. my two major points of inspiration for nyx come from cassandra cain (2nd batgirl, pre-new52) and john wick. cassandra for being... basically born and bred to be the perfect assassin, only to have 'too much' compassion and love and guilt and go hero instead, and john wick for being a 'baba yaga' to anyone who knows his name. not the boogeyman, but the one you send to kill the boogeyman. the idea of a triceraton assassin was very cool to me, given that they're often a straight-forward, loud, and blunt force to face with little concern for being subtle. it also draws an interesting connection to her and the turtles; at some point nyx comments that despite their practice being tied to assassins such as herself, any blood on their hands comes from self-defense. in some ways, she envies them. but in many more, she doesn't. she's the sole survivor of her clutch, and the only one of her siblings to 'earn' a name. she was, in a way, a political move--a gift/tool offered to the prime leader to ensure that her parents had a connection to power and could continue their own work with protection from punishment. ...they just didn't expect for her to want something else. since the triceratons seem to have a handful of 'nods' and aesthetics pointing toward the roman empire, i named nyxram after the greek goddess 'nyx', the personification and substance of night. i also specifically use greek spelling with her, whereas her parents will have roman spelling of their names to further emphasize her 'otherness' from triceraton society as a whole.

[have-a-hiddles]

Happy Birthday to me!

Here’s some (mostly positive) stuff about the year I was born:

Chinese Year of the Horse

United States Senate proceedings are broadcast on radio for the first time.

The People's Republic of China lifts a ban on works by Aristotle, William Shakespeare and Charles Dickens.

The first global positioning satellite, the Rockwell International-built Navstar 1, is launched by the United States.

The first radio episode of The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, by Douglas Adams, is transmitted on BBC Radio 4.

San Francisco's City Council signs the United States's most comprehensive gay rights bill.

Dallas debuts on CBS, and gives birth to the modern day primetime soap opera.

At the 50th Academy Awards, Annie Hall won four Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director (Woody Allen), and Best Actress (Diane Keaton). On the other hand, Star Wars won six Oscars, including Best Film Editing, Best Visual Effects, and Best Art Direction. Finally, Madame Rosa (France) won an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film.

Izhar Cohen & the Alphabeta win the Eurovision Song Contest 1978 for Israel with their song A-Ba-Ni-Bi.

The Bee Gees' album, Saturday Night Fever, went #1 for 24 weeks.

Sarajevo is selected to host the 1984 Winter Olympics, and Los Angeles is selected to host the 1984 Summer Olympics.

Mavis Hutchinson, 53, becomes the first woman to run across the U.S.; her trek took 69 days.

The Dallas Cowboys won the Super Bowl, the Washington Bullets were the NBA champs, and the Montreal Canadiens clinched the Stanley Cup.

Garfield's first comic strip, originally published locally as Jon in 1976, goes into nationwide syndication.

Charon, a satellite of Pluto, is discovered.

The rainbow flag of the LGBT movement flies for the first time (in its original form) at the San Francisco Gay Freedom Day Parade.

Louise Brown, the world's first test tube baby, is born in Oldham, Greater Manchester, UK.

Pope John Paul I succeeds Pope Paul VI as the 263rd Pope.

NASA unveiled the first group of women astronauts: Shannon W. Lucid, Margaret Rhea Seddon, Kathryn D. Sullivan, Judith A. Resnik, Anna L. Fisher, and Sally K. Ride.

Pope John Paul I dies after only 33 days of papacy.

United States President Jimmy Carter signs a bill that authorizes the minting of the Susan B. Anthony dollar.

Pope John Paul II succeeds Pope John Paul I as the 264th pope, resulting in the first Year of Three Popes since 1605.

Abolitionist Harriet Tubman became the first African-American woman to be honored on a U.S. postage stamp.

Chicago serial killer John Wayne Gacy is arrested.

Cabbage Patch Kids are first created.

The video game Space Invaders launched a craze for computer video games.

The first email system was created at University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in Newark, N.J.

The first spam email was sent by Gary Thuerk, a marketing manager who was promoting a new model of computer. Thuerk sent the correspondence out to about 600 prospects via ARPANET, and “complaints started coming in almost immediately.”

Illinois Bell Company introduced the first-ever Cellular Mobile Phone System.

Pulitzer Prize was awarded to Carl Sagan for his book, The Dragons of Eden.

 At the 30th Primetime Emmy Awards, All in the Family (CBS) won an Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series, and The Rockford Files (NBC) won an Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series. Carroll O’Connor (All in the Family) won an Emmy for Outstanding Continued Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Comedy Series, and Jean Stapleton (All in the Family) won an Emmy for Outstanding Continued Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Comedy Series.

At the 35th Golden Globe Awards, The Turning Point won a Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture Drama, and The Goodbye Girl won a Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture Comedy or Musical.

Actor Ashton Kutcher was born on Feb. 7, 1978 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Actor James Franco was born in Palo Alto, Calif. on April 19, 1978.

Actor Jason Biggs was born on May 12, 1978, in Pompton Plains, N.J.

Actress Zoe Saldana was born on June 19, 1978.

Singer Nicole Scherzinger was born on June 29, 1978.

Actor Josh Harnett was born on July 21, 1978.

 NBA star Kobe Bryant was born on Aug. 23, 1978.

Singer Usher was born on Oct. 14, 1978.

Actress Katherine Marie Heigl was born in Washington, D.C., on Nov. 24, 1978.

Popular movies included: Grease, Saturday Night Fever, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and Star Wars (the first one), Superman: The Movie, and Halloween.

 The most popular baby names for boys were Michael, Jason, Christopher, David, and James. 

The most popular baby names for girls were Jennifer, Melissa, Jessica, Amy, and Heather. 

[nxmuzluv]

THE FIRST SINGLE … ˗ˏˋ ꒰ ♡ ꒱ ˎˊ˗

“GIRLS DON’T CRY” is the debut single by CHOUKA AIKAWA. Released on April 5th, 2024, the song went on to top charts in various countries. Hailed as one of the best debuts of 2024, critics and fans alike fell in love with the song’s “girlish” and carefree production, and praised how Chouka stayed so true to her hyperfeminine, “princesscore” image. The song’s success as caused critics to name her as a pop girl on the rise.

TRACKLIST … ˗ˏˋ ꒰ ♡ ꒱ ˎˊ˗

GIRLS DON’T CRY ! LEAD SINGLE

CAKE ! B-SIDE

GIRLS DON’T CRY (SPED UP)

PHOTOCARDS … ˗ˏˋ ꒰ ♡ ꒱ ˎˊ˗

COMMERCIAL PERFORMANCE … ˗ˏˋ ꒰ ♡ ꒱ ˎˊ˗

Highly praised for its sound and how it fit Chouka’s style, “Girls Don’t Cry” was a resounding success. The music video’s teaser, which was released with no prior notice onto a completely new YouTube channel (“c.a.”) with no previous content (it was later turned into a channel for all of Chouka’s music related endeavors), garnered over 3.2 million views within its first twenty-four hours after Chouka posted it to her Twitter and Instagram accounts. The single’s title was revealed on both platforms an hour later, coinciding with the launch of her official website, which displayed the title alongside a countdown timer.

The song received over 400,000 pre-saves, and the title was trending on Twitter with over a million Tweets. Shortly before “Girls Don’t Cry” dropped, Chouka’s website was updated with the single’s cover, and she posted behind the scenes photos of her on its set, which received over two million likes within the first day.

Upon the song’s release, it was a smash hit. The music video garnered 32 million views within its first 24 hours, finding itself at #1 on YouTube’s trending page, and topping both the Spotify and Apple Music charts. It went on to become the second most streamed song on Spotify in regards to first day streams. “Girls Don’t Cry” topped charts in several countries, including Japan, South Korea, Australia, the United Kingdom, Italy, France, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and the Philippines (it also managed to remain atop the Oricon chart for seven weeks).

Surprisingly enough, “Girls Don’t Cry” would debut at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 with sales of over 200,00 units, despite industry insiders predicting a Top 20 debut; probably due to the song’s immense popularity online. Unfortunately, it would never reach #1, falling to #7 after five weeks and staying there for two until falling off, but Rosettes were still happy to see that Chouka’s debut managed to get that high. In total, the single would sell over 850,000 units within its first week, cracking a million by the end of April.

Additionally, the song was also praised for its lyricism and feminist commentary on how women who are seen as “strong” or “smart” are not allowed to cry or display negative emotions and are expected to act as role models, while women who appear as if they have everything are told to “just deal with it” and that they have “nothing to be upset about.” Many Rosettes (and critics) were also surprised to find out that Chouka had written most of the lyrics, as she never expressed interest in songwriting before.

“Cake” was released as a single a month later, on May 3rd, 2024. Although the music video received over 11 million views within its first twenty-four hours, Rosettes were … a bit divided. It seemed like none of them could figure out whether they liked the song or not, with certain Tweets saying …

˗ˏˋ ꒰ ♡ ꒱ ˎˊ˗ “ y’all are just HATERS ! like y’all have truly forgotten what real pop music sounds like bc cake is a hit idc ! ”

˗ˏˋ ꒰ ♡ ꒱ ˎˊ˗ “ chouka girl with all due respect i think letting a major label get a hold of you was a mistake ”

˗ˏˋ ꒰ ♡ ꒱ ˎˊ˗ “ no bc this is girly girl music ! it’s cute it’s fun it’s bouncy and it’s so HER ! chouka bby get behind me PUT DOWN THE HATERADE NOWWWW !! ”

˗ˏˋ ꒰ ♡ ꒱ ˎˊ˗ “ #notmychouka girl why does this sound so EMPTY ??? republic needs to pay for their crimes bc ….. ”

Despite the confusion, “Cake” also went on to top charts. It also debuted atop the Apple Music chart, and came in second beneath “Girls Don’t Cry” on Spotify. It managed to debut at #6 on the Billboard Hot 100, although Rosettes were gunning for a higher placement (it was definitely because they couldn’t stop beefing with each other). The song remained on the chart for two weeks (managing to jump to #5 during its second), before completely falling off the Top Ten.

Luckily, more retrospective reviews shows that Rosettes have warmed up to “Cake,” saying that it fit the aesthetic of the lead single. Everyone loved the “sugar sweet” concept that Chouka had going on, and expressed pleasant surprise that her try at a music career was going so well.

STYLING … ˗ˏˋ ꒰ ♡ ꒱ ˎˊ˗

ERA HIGHLIGHTS … ˗ˏˋ ꒰ ♡ ꒱ ˎˊ˗

Definitely a fun era! Republic was truly pushing this single and girl, it showed. There were billboards playing her music video (Rosettes in New York even crowded around one when it first launched), ads plastered all across YouTube, “Girls Don’t Cry” was all over the radio, and it was the most popular song on TikTok for a good month.

The promotions were insane! Chouka was all over television this era. She was on the Kelly Clarkson Show (which was too cute! Like Kelly literally complimented her accent), she was on Jimmy Fallon, she was on GMA … like you truly could not escape her! She also had a photoshoot with Harper’s Bazaar and people ate it up! It was very Marie Antoinette themed with huge dresses, pastries, and of course, it was shot at a chateau in France!

And of course she had to promote in Japan! Chouka performed both “Girls Don’t Cry” and “Cake” on Music Station, and no one expected either song to have choreography. But the choreo was so cute, and especially for “Girls Don’t Cry!” Like you could truly tell that Chouka was having a blast, and everyone was so surprised at her stage presence because she’s literally a YouTuber. She also held a press conference in Tokyo, and she even got to visit a pop-up event held by Rosettes at a café in her hometown, Kyoto! It was the cutest thing to see her interacting with her fans, and she thanked them at least five times.

Chouka managed to squeeze in Korean promotions, as well! She performed both of her singles on M Countdown, Inkigayo, and The Show, and she was even on Weekly Idol! She held a small fansign for 200 fans who participated in the pre-order and received a “mystery ticket” with their album, and it was so cute! Chouka was cracking jokes with them and receiving SO many gifts (most of which were either pink or ridiculously expensive; she got a lot of bouquets, too!). Her Korean promos even saw the birth of her first fansite, Strawberry Sweet! She also appeared on the cover of Vogue Korea, and after that, Korean promotions ended unfortunately.

Side note, every performance of “Girls Don’t Cry” started with a costume change! It was usually Chouka tearing off a huge ball gown like skirt to reveal her shorter costume underneath, and her performance on M Countdown was literally her playing a princess getting ready for a ball. There was also a lot of ribbons, platform heels, and satin gloves used styling wise, and Chouka’s makeup was always so soft and pink!

Although she didn’t have enough songs to perform a full set, Chouka attended Coachella anyways and met a bunch of Rosettes! Jason (her fiancé) also tagged along, so fans got to meet him, too! Fashion girls were all over her festival looks too … being raised in Milan truly did wonders for her fashion sense.

Girl, the way the “#GirlsDontCryChallenge” blew up on TikTok is insane. The song had over a million videos underneath it by the start of June, and Chouka was doing it with celebs like Kelly, Tate McRae, Olivia Rodrigo, the members of Aespa, the members of Itzy, Rosé of BLACKPINK, Nayeon and Momo from TWICE, Yuju, the members of Viviz, and a few members of Stray Kids and NCT; among others! Chouka also did the challenge with Leeseo, Rei, and Wonyoung of IVE, and the way Dives and Rosettes were across every social media app absolutely freaking out that Chouka and Wonyoung were the same room was truly crazy.

Towards the end of promotions, a full length documentary covering the making of “Girls Don’t Cry,” the music videos, and the subsequent performances premiered on YouTube. It was a mix of professional camera shots and footage personally shot by Chouka herself, which was refreshing since Rosettes got to see a sillier side to her personality. The documentary garnered over 3 million views within the first twenty-four hours, and would end up at #5 on YouTube’s trending page.

At the end of promos, Chouka posted a long, heartfelt letter to her Instagram thanking fans for their support and expressing how surprised she was at the single’s success. She wrote, “I know that you guys have been waiting three years for me to try my hand at music, and words cannot express how happy I am that it was worth the wait. Over these last few months, you all have shown me so much love, and just thinking about it is moving me to tears as I write this! I promise that I’ll repay your support tenfold. You guys truly mean the world to me, and I wouldn’t be half the person I am today if it weren’t for you. You are truly my other half, even if I unfortunately don’t know you personally (don’t tell Jason I said that). I hope and pray that one day, I’ll be able to meet every single one of you from around the whole world in person, and tell you just how much you mean to me. Until next time, my loves. Ti amo sempre e per sempre. Ciao ciao. ♡”

Additionally, there was also a remix planned with PinkPantheress, but unfortunately, plans ended up falling through because Chouka simply … didn’t want to do it. However, Rosettes ended up finding out about the planned collab, and demand for it was huge. So the remix could happen in the future! Who knows.

All in all, this era was great. It truly showed how much untapped star power Chouka had, and the numbers proved it. It reinforced her “It girl” status, showing that no matter what industry she tried her hand at, she would still dominate. ˗ˏˋ ꒰ ♡ ꒱ ˎˊ˗

[williamafton2030]

Happy 10th anniversary!!

Fnaf has turned 10 years old and I can't stop wondering how time went by so fast. I swear that for me the release of Fnaf 1 wasn't that far away but with this great celebration that has been this great week I have realized that it was.

I look back and realize how much this franchise has grown. 10 years ago it would have been unthinkable that we would have VR games, movies and books but we have them and it's incredible. However, I think that the most important thing about things is the path to follow and Fnaf has gone through a great path. There have been ups and downs, but there have also been very strong moments and this is like everything: the falls that you have don't matter but getting up from them.

Fnaf also has a huge fandom that is very dedicated to the franchise and that contributes its grain of sand as it can: some drawing, others theorizing, others making videos, writing stories… It's true that sometimes we can be a bit intense but leaving that aside it seems completely magical to me that such a large community strives day after day to enrich this franchise more and more.

Fnaf songs are something very special in my heart. I was thinking of making a list of the songs I like the most but Tumblr won't let me because there is a limit of links so instead I'll put the links of the singers that I highly recommend listening to and some of them are from my childhood with songs that bring me a lot of nostalgia:

(Please note that this is not a top and is just a list of Fnaf singers that I love to listen to. I would also like to say that Tumblr does not allow me to publish so many links even though I have not reached the limit, so I would like you to know that TryHardNinja https://www.youtube.com/@TryHardNinja; Jt Music https://www.youtube.com/@JTM and Cg5 https://www.youtube.com/@CG5 are on this list, only Tumblr doesn't allow for so many links)

With this list of singers, I only have to thank Scott for making Fnaf and this fandom for creating such incredible things (even though I've stopped at the songs, there are stories on ao3 that are simply works of art, very interesting videos from people who upload them to Youtube, theories, drawings and many more things that I'm delighted to see every day)

With all this said, I'm off. Sorry for the delay in making this post, but Into the Pit has me completely hooked. I'm going to see if I can keep seeing curious details about the game 👋

Happy 10th anniversary, Fnaf and its community! 🎂

[lady-of-imladris]

end of year asks, 1 - 25 and everyone in between (you can skip the ones you have already done)

wow. Okay. Sure. But I am putting a cut lol

what did you learn about yourself this year? Already answered

best moment of the year? I'd say it's a tie between getting Eras Tour Tickets and getting my apartment :)

worst moment of the year? The one that first comes to mind is failing that one exam at the beginning of March? I've had a pretty great year! I'm sure there were worse things but this is the first I thought of.

what was the biggest change you experienced this year? Moving out from home for the second and third time (I spent March-June in student accommodation and got my own apartment shortly after that)

best song of the year? SO MANY!!! But my favourite this year, not counting any Taylor Re-Releases is Margaret by Lana del Rey

best album of the year? Did you know that there's a tunnel under Ocean Boulevard? by Lana del Rey

what’s one thing that happened this year that you want to change? I'd like to have used my summer more productively! I did FUCK ALL for 3 entire months :( I mean... I really didn't feel like I could have done anything tbh, I was recovering from the horrors

best book/book series of the year? Definitely not the fourth From Blood and Ash book, that was a total flop imo (Em if you are reading this and wondering why the fuck I recommended the series to you: you should still read it it's good, just be prepared to be disappointed by book 4 lmao). Idk, I'm not usually reading books that just came out? idk?? I really enjoyed The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes :)

best television series? *thinks really hard about everything*... I REALLY enjoyed The Great!!

how was your love life this year? ahahahahahahahahahahaaaaaaaaaa. Let's maybe not unpack the details but uhhmmmm. Unchanged? But like... shoutout to anon fiancé for brightening my days <3

what made you cry the most this year? Moving out from home!!!! The third time specifically, the first two were less emotional. But I still think that's a tie with the video of the raccoon trying to wash cotton candy. That ALWAYS makes me cry

biggest regret of the year? Not spending more time in the summer with my bestie! Not going out more often? (but then again, with whom?)... I'd just say all the things I didn't do!

best movie of the year? Already answered

favourite place you travelled this year? I only went one place this year and it was the Czech Republic!

did you make any new friends? Already answered :)

did you learn anything about your sexuality this year? Not sure, I am still questioning things on occasion but all in all I'm still a bisexual disaster!

what are some hobbies that you developed? WRITING!! I started writing again for the first time in YEARS

what surprised you the most this year? That I literally became a fanfic writer

do you look different from the beginning of the year? let me just grab my phone and look at some pics... I look exactly the same lol. Same glasses, same hair

how did this year treat you in general? Very kindly :) my new years resolution last year was to be happy and I think I did well.

what message would you give yourself at the beginning of the year? Already answered

has your fashion style changed this year? Already answered

one of the best meals you’ve had this year? Going (mostly) gluten free has been a challenge and tasting a croissant again, or a cinnamon roll when I was feeling like taking a risk was SO GOOD. And also the potatoes I made in the air fryer when I was drunk! (I literally had to take a cold shower first because I didn't trust myself with a knife but I was super super hungry and I love me my drunk potato dinners!)

who has made the biggest impact in your life this year? a lot of people! But... especially you? And I'm literally not saying this just because you sent this ask but you were kinda the first person to come to mind when I read this question because I'm doing so much wild stuff now? Like??? WE ARE GOING TO LONDON??? YOU ARE LITERALLY COMING OVER TO STAY AT MY PLACE NEXT YEAR????

what’s one thing that you hope will continue next year? I still want to be happy (obviously). I've had a really great year and I just want that to continue <3

[brookston]

Holidays 7.25

Holidays

Act Like a Caveman Day

Antifascist Pasta Day (Italy)

Bayreuther Festspiele begins (Wagner festival; Germany) [thru 8.28]

Be Adamant About Something Day

Community Day (Galicia, Spain)

CTNNB1 Awareness Day

A Day Out of Time (Last Day of the Year; Mayan, Galactic)

Ebernoe Horn Fair (Sussex, UK)

Feed the Country Ducks Day

Festival of Picaresque Animality

Health and Happiness with Hypnosis Day

International AfroLatinx, AfroCaribbean & Diaspora Women’s Day

International Day of Solidarity with Antifascist Prisoners

International Red Show Day

International Sop Rapping Over Vocals Day

John Knill Day (Cornwall, UK) [Every 5 Years]

Jumatul Bidah (Bangladesh)

Jumat-ul-Wida (India)

Merry-Go-Round Day [also 5.17]

Mugwort Day (French Republic)

National African American Hepatitis C Action Day

National Campus Press Freedom Day (Philippines)

National Carousel Day

National Clay Day

National Day of Galicia (Spain)

National Hire a Veteran Day

National Houston Day

National Schizophrenia Awareness Day (UK)

National Video Game Team Day

Occupation Day (Puerto Rico)

Rain of Black Worms Day (Romania)

Red Shoe Day

Republic Day (Tunisia)

Rosiland Franklin Day

Santiago Apóstol (Spain)

Test-Tube Baby Day

Thread the Needle Day

Traditional Palestinian Dress Day

World Drowning Prevention Day (UN)

World Embryologist Day

World IVF Day

World Youth Days 2023 begins (Lisbon, Portugal; Roman Catholic; until 7.31) [Varies; @Every 3 Years]

Food & Drink Celebrations

Candles on a Cake Day

Culinarian’s Day

Frozen Fruit Freeze Day

Indie Beer Day (Australia)

National Hot Fudge Sundae Day

National Wine and Cheese Day

4th Tuesday in July

Waterton-Glacier Science & History Day [4th Tuesday]

Independence Days

Abode of Heaven (Declared; 2018) [unrecognized]

Andany (Declared; 2017; Dissolved Sep. 2018) [unrecognized]

Commonwealth Constitution Day (Puerto Rico) 

Rathunis (Declared; 2011) [unrecognized]

Feast Days

Anne (Eastern Christianity)

Christopher (Western Christianity)

Cucuphas (a.k.a. Cueufas, Cougat; Christian; Saint)

Feast of Formation of Saint Ann (Mother of the Virgin Mary; Byzantine Rite)

Furrinalia (Old Roman Goddess of Springs)

Glodesind (Christian; Saint)

Holbein (Positivist; Saint)

Hot Fudge Sundae Day (Pastafarian)

Ilyap'a Festival (Inca thunder god)

James the Great (Western Christianity)

John I Agnus (Christian; Saint)

Julian of Le Mans (Christian; Translation)

Magnerich of Trier (Christian; Saint)

Maxfield Parrish (Artology)

National Baha’i Day (Jamaica)

Nissen, Abbot of Mountgarret, Ireland (Christian; Saint)

Paul (Christian; Martyr)

Shylock Day (Church of the SubGenius; Saint)

Slippery Slim (Muppetism)

Thea and Valentina (Christian; Virgins)

Thomas Eakins (Artology)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Sensho (先勝 Japan) [Good luck in the morning, bad luck in the afternoon.]

Premieres

The Adventures of André & Wally B. (Pixar Cartoon; 1984)

Air Force One (Film; 1997)

Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging (Film; 2008)

Armor Wars (Film; 2025)

Back in Black, by AC/DC (Album; 1980)

Batman: The Killing Joke (Animated Film; 2016)

Broken Quest (Animated tV Series; 2013)

Caddyshack (Film; 1980)

China Grove, by the Doobie Brothers (Song; 1973)

A Chorus Line (Broadway Musical; 1975)

Drinking Buddies (Film; 2013)

Duck Dodgers in the 24½th Century (WB MM Cartoon; 1953)

Fame, by David Bowie (Song; 1975)

First Lensman, by E.E. "Doc" Smith (Novel; 1950) [Lensman #2]

Good Burger (Film; 1997)

Hemingway’s Adventures of a Young Man (Film; 1962)

Justice League: Warworld (WB Animated Film; 2023)

Kill ‘Em All, by Metallica (Album; 1983)

Lara Croft Tom Raider: The Cradle of Life (Film; 2003)

Last Train to Clarksville, recorded by The Monks (Song; 1966)

Lego Scooby-Doo! Blowout Beach Bash (WB Animated Film; 2017)

Lucy (Film; 2014)

Maximum Overdrive (Film; 1986)

Paul’s Boutique, by The Beastie Boys (Album; 1989)

Porky’s Spring Planting (WB LT Cartoon; 1938)

Ruby Sparks (Film; 2012)

Seabiscuit (Film; 2003)

Step Brothers (Film; 2008)

The Tree’s Knees (WB LT Cartoon; 1931)

X-Files: I Want to Believe (Film; 2008)

Yes, by Yes (Album; 1969)

You Can’t Hurry Love, by The Supremes (Song; 1966)

Today’s Name Days

Jakob, Jakobus, Thea, Thomas, Valentina (Austria)

Ana, Yana (Bulgaria)

Beata, Jakov, Krsto, Valentina (Croatia)

Jakub (Czech Republic)

Jacobus (Denmark)

Jaagup, Jaak, Jaako, Jaap, Jako, Jakob, Jass (Estonia)

Jaakko, Jaakob, Jaakoppi, Jimi (Finland)

Jacques, Valentine (France)

Jakob, Valentine (Germany)

Anna (Greece)

Jakab, Kristóf (Hungary)

Cristoforo, Giacomo (Italy)

Jēkabs, Marika (Latvia)

Aušrinė, Jokūbas, Kristupas (Lithuania)

Jack, Jakob, Jim (Norway)

Jakub, Krzysztof, Nieznamir, Sławosz, Walentyna (Poland)

Jakub (Slovakia)

Jaime, Santiago (Spain)

Jakob (Sweden)

Jac, Jack, Jacki, Jackie, Jackson, Jacky, Jacques, Jimmie (Universal)

Coby, Colby, Diego, Israel, Jacob, Jacoby, Jack, Jackie, Jackson, Jaclyn, Jacqueline, Jacquelyn, Jacques, Jaime, Jake, Jakob, James, Jameson, Jamie, Jaquan, Jaqueline, Jaxon, Jaxson, Jim, Jimena, Jimmie, Jimmy, Kobe, Koby, Kolby, Santiago (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 206 of 2024; 159 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 2 of week 30 of 2023

Celtic Tree Calendar: Tinne (Holly) [Day 16 of 28]

Chinese: Month 6 (Ji-Wei), Day 8 (Jia-Shen)

Chinese Year of the: Rabbit 4721 (until February 10, 2024)

Hebrew: 7 Av 5783

Islamic: 7 Muharram 1445

J Cal: 26 Lux; Fiveday [26 of 30]

Julian: 12 July 2023

Moon: 50%: 1st Quarter

Positivist: 10 Dante (8th Month) [Holbein]

Runic Half Month: Ur (Primal Strength) [Day 12 of 15]

Season: Summer (Day 35 of 94)

Zodiac: Leo (Day 4 of 31)

[chavalahh]

2024 Mid-Year Check-In/Freak-Out Tag

Video here: https://youtu.be/lmRFGLthWKY

Original Mid-Year Book Freak-Out Tag by Read Like Wildfire and Earl Grey Books Original Mid-Year Book Check-In Tag by Dane Reads and Harriet Rosie Favorite short story collection question cribbed from Russell at Ink and Paper Blog!

How many books read: 53

Best Book: --JOY COMES IN THE MORNING by Michael Rosen https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6549065581

Best Sequel: --BLADE OF DREAM by Daniel Abraham https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6195424759

Best Short Story Collection: --THE WITCH BLADE AND OTHER STORIES by Suzanne Feldman https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6272268096

Most-read genre: --Fiction

New release you want to read: --RELICS OF RUIN by Erin M. Evans https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/125208193-relics-of-ruin --THE FAMILIAR by Leigh Bardugo https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/133286777-the-familiar

Most anticipated release for second half of year: --LONG ISLAND COMPROMISE by Taffy Brodesser-Akner 7/9 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55777544-long-island-compromise --THE MERCY OF THE GODS by James S.A. Corey, 8/6 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/201930181-the-mercy-of-gods --THE GODS BELOW by Andrea Stewart, 9/3 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62969719-the-gods-below --SONGS FOR THE BROKEN-HEARTED by Ayelet Tsabari, 9/10 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/203956664-songs-for-the-brokenhearted --A DARK AND DROWNING TIDE by Alison Saft, 9/17 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/174146852-a-dark-and-drowning-tide ---NIGHT OWLS by A.R. Vishny, 9/17 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/134039882-night-owls --THE REPUBLIC OF SALT by Ariel Kaplan, 10/22 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/202470557-the-republic-of-salt --OUR DEADLY DESIGNS by Kalyn Josephson, 11/12 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/200502380-our-deadly-designs --THE LOTUS EMPIRE by Tasha Suri, 11/12 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59558627-the-lotus-empire

Biggest disappointment: --DAY by Michael Cunningham https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6443465762 --Honorable mention: THE VASTER WILDS by Lauren Groff: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6485699511

Biggest surprise: --THE HOUSE OF DOORS by Tan Twang Eng https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6540685143 --Honorable mention: BIRNAM WOOD by Eleanor Catton: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6484952237

Favorite new author: Jonathan Rosen --THE BEST MINDS https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/636636975 --THE TALMUD AND THE INTERNET https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6549063773

Newest fictional crush: adapted to Favorite Relationship in a book/series: --Gaunt and Ellwood from IN MEMORIAM by Alice Winn https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6327140524 --Honorable mention: Moishe and Chona from THE HEAVEN AND EARTH GROCERY STORE by James McBride https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6469414455

Newest favorite character: --Rabbi Deborah from JOY COMES IN THE MORNING https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6549065581 --Honorable Mention; Bunny from MOBILITY by Lydia Kiesling https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6243413203

Book that made you cry: --IN MEMORIAM by Alice Winn https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6327140524 --JUDGMENT AT TOKYO by Gary J. Bass https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6335747134

Book that made you happy: --BOOKISH PEOPLE by Susan Coll https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6441447848 --WELL MET by Rachel Lee Rubin https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6412374347

Favorite review/booktube video: --2024 Short Stories Reviews: Recent Publications! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3ia76cHVnU&t=1s

Best book to film adaptation you've seen this year: --"His Dark Materials" Season Three Rewatch: https://chavalah.wordpress.com/2023/01/17/his-dark-materials-season-three-when-innocence-turns-to-experience/ --Other 2024 adaptations I've enjoyed/been enjoying: "3 Body Problem" season one and "House of the Dragon" season two!

Most beautiful book cover bought/received this year: --RELICS OF RUIN by Erin M. Evans https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/125208193-relics-of-ruin

What is your next big priority for your reading? Hope to return to Elizabeth Gaskell for Victober, trying Israeli author Eyal Kless for SciFi September, and Italian writer Silvia Avallone for Women in Translation Month! In July, I'm debating some fiction and nonfiction about the Rothschild women. --My last Elizabeth Gaskell video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UlRg6rq1CV8

What has been your bookish highlight?: Choosing my #MaybeMidrash2024 reading list thanks to my #BookTubePrize octofinals ballot! Honorable mention: re-reading THE BALLAD OF SONGBIRDS AND SNAKES last November: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/3367418394 https://chavalah.wordpress.com/2023/11/22/the-ballad-of-songbirds-and-snakes-a-different-sort-of-hunger-games-experience/

What books do you need to read by the end of the year? --THE FAITHLESS by C.L. Clark https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59007314-the-faithless --ROMAN STORIES by Jhumpa Lahiri https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/125077431-roman-stories

[evsvolunteerstotem]

Beginning of summer in the Czech Republic

27.06.2024

Ahoj znovu^^

June had ups and downs when it came to its weather, but thank God almost only ups regarding the memories I made. I was able to experience them at home, but also in Plzeň and beyond, including in České Budějovice and Český Krumlov. A lot was going on in TOTEM and outside of it and with that being said I don't want to waste any more time- so let's get started. ;)

The month started at home, where I was able to meet (as always^^) my family and many friends. I enjoyed sleeping in, having coffee dates, and going out for dinner, as well as watching movies at the cinema and going pottering together with my sister. I really feel like the three times I spent at home looked quite similar haha – BUT there was indeed also something new this time! I attended a wedding on Saturday with the most summery weather so far (no clouds, 27 degrees, and Sun) before leaving on Sunday, the day I also went voting for the first time.

Back in Plzeň, my sister accompanied me again for some days, and then everything went back to normal, even though I would say that things are everything but normal at the moment. It's the first time I seriously plan my last time in TOTEM, regarding the conversational lessons, the events I will take place in, and other things, like my youth pass or the final conversational videos. This definitely feels strange, but I also take all the beautiful moments with me…

… such as our TOTEM summer festival. On Thursday, the 13th of June, we celebrated in a village near Plzeň, and what can I say, I think it was a great success. Even though the weather was, let's put it that way - very changeable - and we didn't know how many people would come during the preparations, it ended up being a very nice evening. The buffet was fabulous, there was a play area for the children, we had a tombola and the programme was complemented by a school orchestra, which impressed me extremely, and featured songs by Adele, ABBA and the Czech-German film "Three Hazelnuts for Cinderella". Moreover, the sun finally accompanied us at the end and so the mood was extremely good and lively. That evening I realized again how comfortable I feel in the "TOTEM family", of which I have become an integral part over the last few months. I think that will make it even harder for me to leave…

… but let's not concentrate on those feelings but rather on the happy moments again.

One of those happened on the weekend after the festival, when I visited a football match of a friend together with Isabelle, before having a quick dinner at the newly opened Kebab near the Plzeň Plaza, where we made new friends again haha. The evening ended with watching the movie "Back to black" about the life of Amy Winehouse (big recommendation for those who haven't watched it yet) and was accompanied by sunny weather and summer feelings.

The European Championships also began - held in Germany - and even though we couldn't watch from home, we followed the first matches with excitement. And because we watched them at the new public viewing place near the river Mže in the centre of Plzeň with fresh beer and good food it kind of felt like the football matches with barbecue evenings that we used to have in our garden and so it wasn't that hard to experience the tournament away from home.  Let's see, who will win the European Championship this year…  Of course, I would be happy about the so-called German summer fairy tale, but in the end, I think that it is more important that different European fans come together to celebrate and to have a good time without hostilities but with respect and support towards each other. 

And then I already told you about my little journey to České Budějovice and Český Krumlov- in fact, it was only one weekend. After work on Friday,  I made my way - together with Isabelle - to the city where the famous "Budweiser" beer got its name from. We had a very nice suburban apartment with a balcony which we arrived at on Friday evening before taking a walk to the city centre. Our way guided us along the river Moldova and through a beautiful park, which was full of people due to a concert taking place there. After a much-needed dinner, we explored the beautiful city centre with its Náměstí Přemysla Otakara II and the Černá věž as well as the Dominican monastery, where we ended up spontaneously watching a live guitar concert by young music students. This experience was so unique and beautiful and especially so impressive because of the nighttime ambiance. Later we went to the nearby island with the Park Sokolský Ostrov, where another concert took place. After a while we were craving something sweet and coffee (at 10 pm!!) so we made our way to the beautiful Café Datel which has incredible opening hours from 8 am to 10 pm and sometimes even midnight- like on Friday and so we indeed enjoyed some coffee and cake there, before going back to our apartment and falling - very tired - into our bed. The next morning we went to the city centre again for a late breakfast and after that made our way to the train station - of course not to drive back to Plzeň but to travel to Český Krumlov. The drive was only about half an hour long and after we arrived in the city we walked straight to the city centre, where we were welcomed by crowds of people. Even though the city is always very touristy, this time even more people were drawn to the city because the so-called "Slavnosti pětilisté růže" was taking place. The Five-petalled Rose Festival was accompanied by many people dressed in medieval costumes, a medieval market, and other performances and shows. We also visited the city's famous castle and its garden, walked along the Vltava River, and stopped for a coffee at a sweet little café in the old town. However, the many people finally were a bit overwhelming for us so we went back to České Budějovice early in the evening, where we spent the rest of the day cooking, chatting, and watching football. After an early breakfast the next morning, we checked out of our apartment and made our way to the city centre again, we strolled around a bit and had a last coffee at Café Datel. And then it was already time to go back to Plzeň - exhausted but also happy about the lovely little trip we had. <3

And the next day I had to get up early again because I made my way to the "Tech tower" in the district of Slovany in the south of Plzeň. In this original brewery, which is now a modern research centre and meeting place for companies and entrepreneurs, our teambuilding took place and it was a very lovely day. We started with breakfast together on the terrace of the building, from where you could look out over the city, and then had a personal tour through the Tech tower, which impressed us all very much. Finally, we took a walk together to Borský Park, where we ended the afternoon with coffee and ice cream and of course many talks. I enjoyed this day very much and again felt the good group dynamic that the TOTEM family has.

This week my last official conversational lessons took place and it was so nice and at the same time emotional to meet my seniors in their group constellation for the last time. I was so overwhelmed by the presents they got me but even more by the beautiful words they had for me. I can remember how nervous I was before my first lesson with them and now I just feel so comfortable with them.

But gladly there will be two more lessons for each Language in July and last in August and I'm looking forward to meeting some of them for at least one more time…

Sunset in my beautiful hometown Halle<3

Last coffee with Tati :’(

Watching Germany winning its first matches in the European Championship =D

Exploring Český Krumlov with Isabelle :)

The beautiful city of České Budějovice at dusk :)

Helping at the “Dobroběh“ (charity run by TOTEM)

At the Plzeň Plaza before watching the movie “Back to Black” (again-big recommendation!;D)

Last lesson with one of my courses <3

July will be my last full month in Plzeň and I’m looking forward to many trips with TOTEM and personal travels through the Czech Republic. Let’s make the last time here unforgettable!

And with that being said, see you in July and enjoy the summer…

Slunečné pozdravy

Laila:)

[hbenvs3000w24]

Nature Interpretation through Music

“It is said that every known human culture has music. Music has been defined as patterns of sound varying in pitch and time produced for emotional, social, cultural, and cognitive purposes. Is music-making in humans defined by our genes? Do other species show musical language and expression? If they do, what kinds of behavior invoke musicmaking in these animals? Is there evidence in the animal kingdom for the ability to create and recreate a musical language with established musical sounds? How are musical sounds used to communicate within and between species? Do musical sounds in nature reveal a profound bond between all living things?” (Gray et al., 2001)

Hi everyone! Welcome back to my nature interpretation blog! This week’s blog post will be focusing on nature interpretation through music.

Similar to the opinions of others, like art, the purpose of music is to signify a moment or memory as well as provide listeners with a sense of nostalgia, often creating a symphony of various sounds (Gray et al., 2001). To answer one of Gray et al. (2001)’s questions, other species do show musical language and expression. One of my favorite examples of music in nature is when birds begin to chirp at dawn in the spring and summer months when sunbeams begin to illuminate my room as I get ready for work, as if they were wishing me a good morning. Their odd, yet harmonious, tunes provided me with comfort and nostalgia at the start of a long day. In contrast, I loved the symphonies created by crickets chirping as I played with my dog in the evening or would take him for his last bathroom break before the following morning like they were bidding us a good night. 

A video of me playing with Charlie on a summer evening as crickets chirped in the background.

So, where is music in nature? I believe music is found everywhere within nature. This type of music may not always be lyrical or melodious, but you can hear unique symphonies if you listen carefully for them. 

Where is nature in music? In a lot of the music I listen to, which mostly consists of Taylor Swift, nature is used as a representation of emotions: peace, happiness, anger, frustration, etc. Nature is also found within music to remind individuals of ideas, thoughts, feelings, inspirations (Hookyaas, 2024). One of my personal favorite songs that reminds me of nature is “willow” by Taylor Swift (Swift, 2020). It doesn’t have a lot of connections to nature aside from willow trees, but I like to think of it as my theme song for the spring and summer months when I would be in the car on the way to a new park or outdoor activity.

Based on my interpretation of nature and music, what song reminds you of nature? And, do you think other species show musical language and expression?

Thank you for reading!

- Sharan

References

Gray, P. Krause, B. Atema, J., Payne, R., Krumhansl, C. & Baptista, L. (2001). The Music of Nature and the Nature of Music. Science. 291. 52-54.

Hooykaas, A. (2024). Unit 7: Nature interpretation through music. University of Guelph.

Swift, T. (2020). willow [Song]. On evermore [Album]. Republic label.

[morningmantra]

Russia Extends Special Republic Day Greetings to India: A Bond of Cultural Camaraderie

Russia extends special Republic Day greetings to India, showcasing strong cultural ties through a hit Bollywood song performance at the embassy in New Delhi.

Delhi: Russia has extended special greetings to India on the occasion of Republic Day. The employees of the Russian Embassy played a hit song from the film ‘Gadar’ starring the famous Bollywood actor Sunny Deol. The video was shared on social media by the Moscow Embassy in New Delhi. Happy Republic Day. Amrit’s call to India’s friends should be brighter. The Russian-Indian friendship should…

[brookstonalmanac]

Holidays 8.29

Holidays

According To Hoyle Day

Black Book Clubs Day

Clean Your Keyboard Day

Day of Loose Talk

Day of Remembrance of the Defenders of Ukraine (Ukraine)

Fennel Day (French Republic)

Flag Day (Spain)

Happy Housewives Holiday

Head Day (Iceland)

Individual Rights Day

International Day Against Nuclear Tests (UN)

Judgment Day (in the film “The Terminator”)

Michael Jackson

Miners’ Day (Ukraine)

Municipal Police Day (Poland)

National Caretaker Appreciation Day (Canada)

National College Colors Day

National Monterey County Fair Day

National Police’s Day (Poland)

National Sarcoidosis Awareness Day

National Sport Sampling Day

National Sports Day (India)

Nut Spas (Russia)

Potteries Bottle Oven Day (UK)

Slovak National Uprising Anniversary Day (Slovakia)

Targeted Individual Day

Telugu Language Day (India)

Third Onam (Harvest Festival; India)

World Day of Video Games

Zipper Clasp Locker Day

Food & Drink Celebrations

Chop Suey Day

Gnocchi Day (Argentina)

International Peppercorn Day

Lemon Juice Day

More Herbs, Less Salt Day

National Swiss Winegrowers Day

5th & Last Tuesday in August

Lammas Fair Day (Ballycastle, Ireland) [Last Tuesday]

Touch-A-Heart Tuesday [Tuesday of Be Kind to Humankind Week]

Independence Days

Hjalvik (Declared; 2020) [unrecognized]

Mivland (Declared; 2018) [unrecognized]

Veyshnoria (Declared; 2017) [unrecognized]

Feast Days

Adelphus of Metz (Christian; Saint)

Beheading of St. John the Baptist (Christian)

Blobfish Day (Pastafarian)

Dr. Lily Rosenbloom (Muppetism)

Eadwold of Cerne (Christian; Saint)

Euphrasia Eluvathingal (Syro-Malabar Catholic Church)

Feast of Agios Ioannis (Halki, Hittitie God of Grain)

First Day of Thoth (Egyptian New Year)

Gahan Wilson Day (Church of the SubGenius; Saint)

Hathor’s Day (Pagan)

Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres (Artology)

John Bunyan (Episcopal Church)

Medericus (a.k.a. St. Merry; Christian; Saint)

Nativity of Hathor (Egyptian Goddess of Joy & Drunkenness)

Papin (Positivist; Saint)

Sabina (Christian; Saint)

Sebbi (a.k.a. Sebba), King of Essex (Christian; Saint)

Thiruvonam (Rice Harvest Festival, Day 2; Kerala, India)

Vitalis, Sator and Repositus (Christian; Saints)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Prime Number Day: 241 [53 of 72]

Tomobiki (友引 Japan) [Good luck all day, except at noon.]

Unlucky Day (Grafton’s Manual of 1565) [38 of 60]

Urda (The Oldest Fate)

Premieres

At Your Service Madame (WB MM Cartoon; 1936)

Balls of Fury (Film; 2007)

Cat-Tails for Two (WB MM Cartoon; 1953)

Definitely Maybe, by Oasis (Album; 1994)

The Fugitive final episode (Most Watched TV Show; 1967)

The Full Monty (Film; 1987)

Here Today, Gone Tamale (WB LT Cartoon; 1959)

Independent Women, by Destiny’s Child (Song; 2000)

It’s A Pity To Say Goodnight, recorded by Ella Fitzgerald (Song; 1946)

Kid Galahad (Elvis Presley Film; 1962)

Mary Poppins (Film; 1964)

Move It, by Cliff Richard and the Drifters (Song; 1958)

Pretty Woman, by Roy Orbison (Song; 1964)

Ridiculousness (TV Series; 2011)

Runaway, by Janet Jackson (Song; 1995)

Saint Errant, by Leslie Charteris (Short Stories 1948) [Saint #29]

Shanghai Surprise (Film; 1986)

Signing Off, by UB40 (Album; 1980)

Today’s Name Days

Beatrix, Johannes, Sabine (Austria)

Anastas, Anastasi, Anastasiya (Bulgaria)

Bazila, Ivan, Sabina, Sebo, Verona (Croatia)

Evelína (Czech Republic)

Johannes (Denmark)

Õnne, Õnnela (Estonia)

Iina, Iines, Inari, Inna (Finland)

Médéric, Sabine (France)

Beatrice, Johannes, Sabine (Germany)

Arkadios (Greece)

Beatrix, Erna (Hungary)

Battista, Giovanni, Sabina (Italy)

Aiga, Aigars, Armīns, Vismants (Latvia)

Barvydas, Beatričė, Gaudvydė, Sabina (Lithuania)

Jo, Johan, Jone (Norway)

Flora, Jan, Racibor, Sabina (Poland)

Nikola (Slovakia)

Juan (Spain)

Hampus, Hans (Sweden)

Candace, Candice, Poppy, Sabina, Sabra, Sabrina (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 241 of 2024; 124 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 2 of week 35 of 2023

Celtic Tree Calendar: Coll (Hazel) [Day 22 of 28]

Chinese: Month 7 (Geng-Shen), Day 14 (Ji-Wei)

Chinese Year of the: Rabbit 4721 (until February 10, 2024)

Hebrew: 12 Elul 5783

Islamic: 12 Safar 1445

J Cal: 1 Aki; Oneday [1 of 30]

Julian: 15 August 2023

Moon: 97%: Waxing Gibbous

Positivist: 17 Gutenberg (9th Month) [Papin]

Runic Half Month: Rad (Motion) [Day 2 of 15]

Season: Summer (Day 69 of 94)

Zodiac: Virgo (Day 8 of 32)

Calendar Changes

Aki (Month 9 of 12; J Calendar)

[hapigreetings]

Happy Republic day!

[lesbianbernardsumner]

Oh my goodness thank youssooo much, I am very very happy to be involved here.

1. How long have you been a New Order fan?

Active since July of 2022, really, but their music has intrigued me since I was like, four.

2. How many New Order concerts have you been to?

None unfortunately. They have only been to my state once and that was 35 years ago. I am seeing Hooky for the first time in September. I know I’m gonna have a great time and I kinda hate that part of myself.

3. What was your favorite New Order gig?

I really like how pathetic the 2001-2006 ones are. I dunno! I do go back and listen to concerts but none of their eras are perfect enough for me to say I have a favorite. They all have little elements and charms to their specific dates. I’ll stick with saying 511 because of the scream comp.

4. What is your favorite New Order album?

Switches between Sirens’ Call and Music Complete every other day. I know I shouldn’t like Sirens’ Call but I really do!

5. Favorite New Order Song?

It was Dream Attack for a while. I adore Vicious Circle and Hurt and Best & Marsh aaand Unlearn This Hatred and Krafty. So many! I’ll stick with Dream Attack for now.

6. Favorite member of New Order?

Bernard. He’s even my discord username. He’s very fun to draw, especially as he ages. I love how his brain works, yknow. I find his voice calming. (LESBIAN ALERT I LIKE GIRLS!!)

7. Favorite former member of New Order?

What an odd thing to say! Gillian. She’s former and current.

8. How many NO albums do you own?

On CD I have all of them (including comps) except for PCL, Retro and Total. All of them are basic reprints with no bonus tracks, except for Substance. Oh yeah and the only live album I have on CD is Education Entertainment Recreation.

I also have the CD singles for World and Crystal.

On vinyl I’ve got… 1981-1982 (which I don’t think was ever put on CD so I didn’t mention it), PCL, Lowlife, Brotherhood, Substance, Technique, Total and Music Complete. And some singles… Confusion, Perfect Kiss, BLT, Be A Rebel, Krafty… I’m missing a few I’m sure.

On cassette I have the new Substance and Technique.

Also I have a fridge magnet of Republic!

9. Do you own any Joy Division?

The Total vinyl, duh. Also have Substance and Bestof on CD. Substance was briefly stolen.

I wanna get a cd of Closer eventually. My record store promotes it but they never have it in stock! I once saw a slipmat with Ian on it… scary.

10. Least favorite album?

Get Ready and it’s not even close. Genuinely has some of my least favorite songs of all time.

11. Do you have all the side project albums?

Umm… I have all of Electronic’s (my Twisted Tenderness copy is the special edition, Elecelec is an original Warner with both Gangster and Getting Away With It) and both O2 and Never Cry Another Tear. No BMusic or Swing or RevengeMonaco. Last year a record store was selling Revenge’s two singles in the used rack, I really wish I got them for the novelty.

I also have Feel Every Beat’s single on CD. I wish I had more Electronic CD singles cause they’re not on North American streaming. On vinyl I have the record store day 4 remixes Get The Message thing and also the new Get The Message release from September!

12. Which is your favorite side project?

Electronic all the way. Have been listening to RTP as I write this. Funny, it’s just for Bernard. I literally don’t care about anything except Bernard and yet I’m so fixated on Electronic a lot of the time it’s embarrassing. I’m no Johnny Marr fan by any stretch of the word. All I know of him is stuff I learned about Electronic as like, a byproduct.

13. Favorite remix?

Mac Quayle Guilt Is A Useless Emotion and Arthur Baker Jetstream. Sirens’ Call remixes are really the only ones I have actually listened to.

14. Favorite video?

Confusion or Crystal. I don’t think any of their videos are that good those are just the least bad.

15. Favorite cover?

I actively don’t listen to covers. Too scared.

16. Should Hooky rejoin?

God that would be so funny. No.

17. Do you like Barney’s dancing and fav dance move?

I DO it’s so fucking stupid. I like Temptation where he motions “circle” by spinning his hand. Blue Monday and Fine Time usually have him hopping around the stage since he has no guitar. So whimsical! So beautiful and powerful.

18. How many times a day do you listen to NO?

I’ve been on a JD and Electronic kick as of now but on school days it’s at least once. I’ve been trying to listen more when I’m not busy too. So like. Let’s just say every day all the time.

19. Is New Order your favorite band?

Yep. By a long shot. Other bands I was into previously were either too weird or just not my kinda music. As it turns out I like mainstream dance.

20. Should Steve audition for Dr. Who?

He would be terrified. I can’t imagine him acting, so jittery and stuttery.

21. Favorite Barney collaboration?

Other than Electronic, hmm. Miracle Cure was a nice song. I like him in New Order!

Tagging @youngoffender (again.) aaaandddd… er… @cherry-pop-soda and @transfloppa @yurigi I don’t know if you still like new order but I don’t wanna leave you out!

bringing back dis ancient new order thing i fucking guess

1. How long have you been a New Order fan? 4 years, since spring 2020

2. How many New Order concerts have you been to? 0 sadly, but way more ph+l than id like

3. What was your favourite New Order gig? not sure what gig this actually was but my fav live thing of them ever was an egg/temptation segue that was deleted off youtube a while ago

4. What is your fav New Order album? movement and republic rap battle in my head every day

5. Fav New Order song? all day long

6. Favourite Member of New Order? GILLIANNNNN

7. Favourite Former Member of New Order? rob (rip king)

8. How many NO albums do you own? 8 i think

9. Do you own any Joy Division? up and closer

10. Least Favourite album? out of the relevant ones, technique, otherwise fucking wftsc or some shit i guess

11. Do you have all the side project albums? i have all of o2 (+ some extra) and all of monaco

12. Which is your favorite side project? THE OTHER TWO SUPREMACY

13. Favorite remix? i dont listen to many remixes

14. Favorite video? tbthog (true faith and world are rap battling for 2nd)

15. Favorite cover? dont listen to many covers either, but daywave's ceremony one is nice

16. Should Hooky rejoin the band? HELL nah

17. Do you like Barney’s dancing and fav dance move? HELL nah fav move is the one where i put him in my human size mouse trap

18. How many times a day do you listen to NO? idfk man

19. Is New Order your favorite band? nope (cocteau twins my beloved) but they were for a few years there

20. Should Steve audition for Dr. Who? sure. why not. whatever u fuckin say i guess. i would support him

21. Favorite Barney collaboration? fuck barney bruh all his collabs give me brain damage

tagging the only real one on this site @tastyfish and ermmmmm @youngoffender (hi im kweenofthenight instagram sory for the tumblr jumpscare)

[luminalunii97]

Shervin Hajipour song "For..." (...برای) extended lyrics explanation

Early on the mahsa amini protests, people came up with an idea to keep the hashtag #MahsaAmini trending and to fuel the fire of the protests by going through reasons. "For..." Was a template people completed with reasons why they're protesting, things the regime fucked up and made us angry as a nation. Shervin, a 25 year old singer, did what artists in pain do. He made a song, with lyrics that were based on some of the tweets people made. It wasn't an official release, he posted a 2 minutes video singing this on his Instagram page. Since everyone was in the mindset and the song was musically moving, the video went viral and reached 40 million views in less than 3 days. He was arrested by security forces shortly after and was released on bail five days later. His song has become the anthem of this revolution. (TW violence and death)

برای توی کوچه رقصیدن

For dancing in the alley

(Because dancing is forbidden in iran. Any kind of festivity or street carnival that is a happy event and includes music and dancing is banned.)

برای ترسیدن به وقت بوسیدن

For the fear [you feel] when [you] kiss

(Because kissing in public is also prohibited. It's about both culture and law. Iranians are shy about showing romantic affection in general, though the new generation is a lot more open about that. But morality police would be up on your ass if they see you holding hands with someone of the opposite gender, let alone kissing. In case they're your spouse, you have to show them your marriage license and even then you'd be advised to not show that kind of affection on the streets. I'm talking about hands holding)

برای خواهرم ، خواهرت ، خواهرامون

For my sister, your sister, our sisters

برای تغییر مغزها که پوسیدن

For changing the rotten minds

برای شرمندگی ، برای بی پولی

For the shame of poverty

برای حسرت یک زندگی معمولی

For yearning for a normal life

برای کودک زباله گرد و آرزوهاش

For the kid who scaveng the garbage cans and their dream

(Child labor is a prominent social disaster. Seeing a small child bend over a big trash can, searching for anything valuable inside, or a kid standing near traffic lights and beginning people to buy their goods or wash their car windows has become part of daily life in many places in iran. Unofficial reports suggest that the number of working children has increased to 14.5k in Tehran only in recent years. It's specially shameful for the regime that's running a rich country. And don't put it on sanctions, if the government body in iran wasn't made up of a bunch of warmongering thieves who know nothing about running a country, we'd do just fine. Iran is rich with oil and gas, has many minerals, zinc, copper, iron, gold, and etc, agriculture and livestock, a fishery industry that is important because of the native marine ecosystems north and south. But the regime don't care about children's wellbeing, they only care about their pockets. Just a couple of years ago, there was a non-governmental women and children rights organization called Imam Ali's Popular Students Relief Society which got suspended by the islamic republic because "they were magnetizing societal problems therefore putting our safety in danger by making our enemies happy" and "insulting the supreme leader"! What they actually did was making reports on child labor and child abuse (things government pretend don't exist), fighting child marriage (which the regime advertise on tv), and child execution (which the regime defends as a crime-reducing solution)! The list of crimes against children done by regime is long. In the last two months, they've killed, tortured, and used them as soldiers. we don't have any popular organizations in iran. They're still kind of working underground. In my country real charities are underground organizations and the regime related ones are real thieves) (there's a video being shared in iran of a labor child looking longingly at a doll behind a window shop. That heartbreaking moment is this line in the song)

برای این اقتصاد دستوری

For this command economy

(Basically we have the opposite of freedom in economy. The government decides and control everything that's related to finance, it makes it easier for them to steal! It's safe to say that any big corp or successful production in Iran is linked to the government and IRGC is always there as an indirect shareholder or they just receive the profits for no reason. Last year, a report got out that Mobarake steel industry has been involved in heavy financial corruption, including rent, laundering, embezzlement, and handing out money to different governmental institutions like IRIB and IRGC for no absolute reason. The report was made by the parliament themselves which means someone felt left out there. We've been boycotting known brands during this protests. Right now one of these brands, who have a history in not paying back their loan is in a financial crisis. The stocks of one corp has fallen dramatically too)

برای این هوای آلوده

For this polluted air

(Air pollution has been a crisis in Iran in the past decade or so. This is specially worse in bigger cities like Tehran and Mashhad. In the western states of iran, like Khuzestan or Kermanshah, dust and sand haze is so bad you literally breath soil with air. This disaster has been caused mostly by Iran, Iraq, and Turkyie meddling with nature and also Saudi Arabia deserts. It's getting worse by year. These countries can't find a suitable solution it seems or maybe they don't care to bother. In bigger industrialized cities smoke and chemical haze is the main issue. This one is caused by both overpopulation and the unsuitable placement of factories and industries near city borders. These factories often times don't have suitable filters to reduce their pollution. According to official reports, in 2020 Tehran had only 15 clean days. And that is the year we were on covid lockdown and the air quality was significantly better. Majority of the days had "acceptable" level of toxicity. Air pollution causes many environmental issues, health problems and reduces life expectancy)

برای ولیعصر و درختای فرسوده

For Valiasr and its worn trees

(Valiasr street is one of the most beautiful streets in the heart of Tehran. I don't care if it's the longest street in middle east or the world or not. What matters is that for many people living in Tehran it represents home. This streets is lined on both sides with old trees. And these old trees are getting destroyed by both lack of good care and some fuckin business owners. And as usual the government doesn't care. Out of 18000 trees that were sitting along the street only about 8000 are left.)

برای پیروز و احتمال انقراضش

For "Pirouz" and his possible extinction

(Piruz means someone who gained victory, a winner. It's the name of a cheetah cub. Persian cheetah or Asiatic cheetah is an endangered subspecies. There are currently 12 of them left in Iran. There has been efforts to preserve them. In a recent effort, in Turan national park, two of them named Iran (female) and Firouz (male) mated and 3 cubs were born. Two of those cubs died, one at birth the other shortly after. But Piruz survived. He's a symbol of hope in Iran.) (And yes, Iran is a feminine name. Currently more than 90k iranian women are named Iran or some variation of it.)

برای سگ‌های بی‌گناه ممنوعه

For innocent banned dogs

(Dogs! these friendly loyal creatures, who probably insulted the supreme leader too, Since they are the regime's number 3 enemy after USA and Israel! Instead of gathering stray dogs, sterilizing, and putting them on shelters to control their population and environment health, they kill dogs, often a big number of them, with poison or guns. There are no protecting laws for stray animals, so lunatics run free to torture and kill these defenceless beings. Just last year, in a wild move, the parliament proposed the ban on keeping dogs, cats, and other controversial animals as pets and called it "protecting humans from dangerous animals" bill! Now taking your dog out for a walk is a criminal act! We have so many criminals in Iran!)

برای گریه‌های بی وقفه

For relentless crying

برای تصویر تکرار این لحظه

For the picture of repeating this moment

(This is about flight ps752 and Reera Esmaeilion, which I've posted about before. This tweet was accompanied by a photo of Reera sitting by his father's side, "this moment will never repeat again and can't be remade")

برای چهره‌ای که می‌خنده

For a smiling face

برای دانش آموزا؛ برای آینده

For students, for future

برای این بهشت اجباری

For this forced heaven

(In highschool they teach us what islamic republic means. In our sociology school book we learned something like this: "the Islamic Republic is a government system that the law is based on shari'a law and God's words. In areas that there isn't a direct order, we ask people's opinions. A republic on its own isn't good for humans happiness because it doesn't care about people's afterlives. But in an Islamic Republic we make your life good but since everyone is going to die and at last this life doesn't matter much, your afterlife is our main plan." Basically "we are medieval Pope and clergy resurfacing in 20th centery. We're gonna forcefully send you to heaven while we will all go to hell. Such giving people we are")

برای نخبه‌های زندانی

For jailed geniuses

(Other-thinkers, aka anyone who has the slightest objections to the regime, are easily arrested, jailed and executed here. Often with made up charges and always without a just trial. Among them there are lawyers, physicians, engineers, physicists, nuclear engineers, authors, philosophers, chemists, athletes, artists, movie directors, and etc. The most infamous prison in Iran that holds political prisoners is called Evin. We call it "Evin university" since most of the prisoners are academics there. Just recently, a couple of university professors who supported the student movement were arrested. Dariush Farhoud, 84, the father of genetics in iran, was one of them because he criticized the regime's policies. He was released in less than 48 hours but his capture was a shock. It's not to say that academic people have blue blood, but to say how this regime disrespects our people even the most educated ones. And they have the audacity to complain about the immigrations, as they put it the "brain drain")

برای کودکان افغانی

For Afghan children

(Immigrate Afghans have very bad situations in iran. Despite our government pose as "defender of helpless" and "protector of mistreated Muslims" Afghan immigrates and their children have lots of legal issues in Iran. Receiving health, education, and id papers has become a prominent problem Afghan kids face in iran. Poverty and lack of supporting law has made them the target of abuse. I mentioned about child labor in iran, many Afghan children are victims of child labor too. IR has also used child soldiers in Syria.) (Don't forget about #stophazaragenocide)

برای این همه " برای" غیر تکراری

For all of these different "for..."s

(There were so many "for" tweets and nearly non of them were repetitive)

برای این همه شعارهای توخالی

For all of these empty slogans

("Down with the USA", "death to [put a western country name, or Israel, or Saudi Arabia]", "I give my life for the supreme leader", "bless the supreme leading system". These are empty slogans. We replaced them with more relevant ones "death to the dictator", "down with Khamenei", "Khamenei is a murderer, therefore his leading is void", "this is the blood year, Khamenei is going down", "woman, life, freedom", "you're dishonored, you're corrupted, I'm a free woman", "no matter how many times you hit me with an ax, it didn't leave a wound [behind]. A bud grew [out of each spot]"! Much better!)

برای آوار خونه‌های پوشالی

For the rubble of the cardboard buildings

(Shoddy construction. You can pay a good bribe to authorities, they close their eyes on your defective construction work. Several months ago, half of a newly made building, Abadan Metropole, collapsed and took 41 lives. A couple of weeks ago, the other half of the same building collapsed but this time only few people got injured. That first collapse, as had become the usual, sparked a short lived protests. The incident was a representation of construction quality in Iran. According to Tehran municipality, many buildings in Tehran are in danger of conflagration. Tehran is already built on 3 major Faults that results in big earthquake every century or so, and we haven't had one in a long time now. Add that to the danger of uncontrollable fire, a Plasco building situation, you see what kind of catastrophe could happen in Tehran. All of this neglect just because of money. They spill our blood for profit.)

برای احساس آرامش

For the peace of mind

برای خورشید پس از شبای طولانی

For sunrise after long nights

برای قرص‌های اعصاب و بی خوابی

For antidepressants and insomnia

(Mental disorders like depression and anxiety have been growing rapidly for several years now. To the point that it's been estimated more than half the population to be depressed. Sui cide rate has been increasing fast and majorly in people under 30. I don't like to talk statistics so let's talk experience. A couple of kids, 14 or so, committed su i cide during covid lockdown which was horrifying hearing their stories in the radio. I, myself, had to take some time off the university because of severe anxiety and depression. Almost all of my classmates and friends are depressed and most of them deal with different degrees of anxiety. And 3 out of 4 of them take sleeping pills. How can you not be like this if you live under a government that not only oppress you with every mean possible, but they steal your money and fuck the economy so bad "it doesn't matter how fast you run, you'll never reach your dreams". And those dreams aren't big dreams. My generation, the generation before and the one after, we all saw our only chance to have a normal life in immigration but I didn't even have the energy to work for that. So out of everyone I know who dream about leaving here, only a handful had the mental strength to get up and get ready for it. Another thing my generation struggle with is religious trauma, even one of my hijabi classmates who did all of her prayers on time hated attending theology classes in uni. It's mandatory to take an appointed number of theology classes in order to get your degree no matter what major you study. And those classes plus all the ones we take in highschool and middle school are some of the most brainwashing traumatizing experiences many students have had. Talk about mental health!)

برای مرد، میهن، آبادی

For man, homeland, development

برای دختری که آرزو داشت پسر بود

For the girl who wished she was born a boy

(I don't think I need to talk about the regime sexism and misogyny. I've talked about it before, at length. I think most iranian girls have daydreamed about being born a boy once. How life would be easier. Guys normally tell us "then you should have done mandatory military service" which really sucks, but still, I think 2 years of hell is better than a lifetime) (I've seen some people attribute this line to the "blue girl". Since she's a symbol of sexism in Iran I think it's worth mentioning her story. Sahar Khodayari was a football fan and liked to attend football matches in stadiums. Even though there's no logical reason behind it, women are prohibited to go to football stadiums. So she would dress up as a guy to attend. In 2019, she got arrested and after being humiliated and threatened to be jailed in court she put herself on fire in front of the judiciary building. She died a week after that. She was just a fan.)

برای #زن_زندگی_آزادی

For #woman_life_freedom

برای آزادی، برای آزادی، برای آزادی

For freedom, for freedom, for freedom

I tried to add links that would lead you to an expanded version of stories or some resources to understand it better. I hope this helps you understand the song, the Iranian revolution, and the dept of our regime's corruption better.

[dailytomlinson]

2020 is finally coming to an end, and we can’t say we’re disappointed about it. It sure has been a long way for everyone, yet some artists had a lot on their plate. Take a look at Louis Tomlinson’s year. As complicated as 2020 has been for him, he still unlocked achievements and outdid himself in the best way. So let’s take a look at how Louis Tomlinson made 2020 his year, let’s go!

Louis Tomlinson Released His Debut Solo Album Walls

After four years of anticipation, and a good two years of teasing, Louis released his debut album, Walls, on January 31st. The record received positive critics and fantastic feedback from his loyal Louies. From the party anthem ‘Kill My Mind’ to the emotional ‘Two Of Us’, with a few sweet escapes such as ‘Too Young’, not to mention the punchy ‘Always You’, the album brought the fans everything they had hoped for. In addition to that, Louis stole our hearts with heartfelt and sincere lyrics that only he has the secret of. Magic.

Louis Started His Worldwide Tour And Gave His First Solo Show

Louis started his worldwide tour in March before it got interrupted. Touring was what he had always been looking forward to, ever since he’d decided to start a solo career. Louis had expressed the exciting feeling and positive stress that he feels right before going on stage. Luckily enough, he had the time to perform twice in Spain at the beginning of March. His first whole solo show took place at Razzmatazz, in Barcelona, and reunited around 2000 fans (sold out). An hour and a half of musical bliss, a performer who shares a lot with his fans, and an incredibly talented band. What else?

Walls Went Number #1 In 53 Countries And Worldwide Upon Release

Louis Tomlinson made 2020 his year in the charts too. He always had a dedicated fandom, and that’s no surprise. However, he seemingly wasn’t expecting the global success of his debut album Walls. Indeed, it went number #1 on iTunes in 53 countries upon its release on January 31st, including the United Kingdom and the major part of South America. Not only that, but the album also climbed the iTunes Worldwide Chart to reach #1 in a matter of hours. Legends only.

Louis Released The Music Video for ‘Walls’, And It’s A Masterpiece

January 16th revealed the final single off Walls, the album, which was none other than the title track itself. Louis described it then as his proudest song on the album, with strong influences of Oasis. A few days later, on the 21st, Louis blessed us with the music video, shot in Morocco by Charlie Ligthening. The camera follows Louis through the Sahara desert and traces his path through a ballroom and dancing crowds. Some other scenes show him surrounded by masked people, or behind four silhouettes that he identified as his four former bandmates. The Easter eggs, the quality of the video, and the suit (yes, the suit, don’t you lie) made it a fans’ favorite, for it now counts more than 12 Million views.

Louis Reached 1.4 Billion Streams on Spotify

It looks like the fans’ streaming parties paid off this year. With only one album, four other songs, and remixes or edits, Louis reached the milestone of 1.4 Billion streams on Spotify this year. Additionally, he also made it to 4 Million followers on the platform. The numbers speak for themselves, and the achievement is huge for an artist who only received little promotion for a debut album, stopped on its way due to the pandemic. Here’s to his first billion, and some more soon! Overall, Louis knows he can count on his devoted Louies to increase the number of streams significantly with new challenges, the way they did it in December with #12DaysOfWalls. (Original idea by @miss_always_you).

He Launched Only The Poets Internationally

If you’re a Louie, there are big chances that this name rings a bell. Only The Poets, a band coming from Reading in the UK, literally skyrocketed this year. After their first performance as Louis’ first act on stage at Scala in February 2020, their popularity started increasing. And Louis confirming them as his first European act only made it better for them. They continued their year with live-streams, private Zoom calls, and pre-listening sessions of their singles with fans. They ended it with a social distanced show in Banbury and a Zoom Tour in a few European countries and South America. And the mutual support Louis and these lads give each other is heartwarming.

Louis Decided To Part Ways With Syco

This one is for the fans. After ten years of collaboration with Sony’s label, Syco, Louis decided to part ways with them for a new adventure. He officially announced his decision with a tweet on July 11th that took no time to break the Internet. Soon enough, hashtags related to the news trended around Twitter, other artists, and radios congratulated him on his decision. Louies celebrated with funny memes and GIFs but made sure to surround Louis with love and support through it all. Now we wait (for the new label announcement).

Louis Didn’t Only Postpone His Tour, He Made It Bigger

Another proof that Louis Tomlinson made 2020 better. Not only did Louis pursue his dream and goal to tour, but he also grew it out. After postponing the tour three times, the newly announced European dates include a few more stops, including Reykjavik (Iceland), Warsaw (Poland), Prag (Czech Republic), Vienna (Austria), Zurich (Switzerland), and an additional date in Paris (France)! The shows sold out in less than 40 minutes, making it more than 15,000 tickets purchased. Due to the high demand in Zurich, the venue changed and 500 more tickets went on sale! In Argentina, a wild mobilization of fans on Twitter led him to open the whole Movistar Arena in Buenos Aires. Some additional tickets went on sale for the Chilean show as well. And guess what? They all sold out.

Louis Was Crowned Artist Of The Summer With 13 Million Votes

Still, doubting that Louis Tomlinson made 2020 his year? A radio station from Philadelphia, @965TDY, launched a Twitter award ceremony last summer to crown an artist ‘Artist Of The Summer’. Many polls, 13 Million votes, and 26 Billion points later, Louis was elected and was all over Twitter thanking his fans for their dedication. Louies had acquired the absolute record of 26 Billion points thanks to their votes on the radio station’s website, and thanks to their mass voting parties. Another proof that Louis and his fans are unstoppable altogether. The support is always undeniably strong, and so is the bond between the artist and the fans. Happy days.

Walls Magically Rises On The Itunes Charts In October

Indeed, nine months after its release, a new wave of fans bought the album on iTunes and made it rise in the charts. The magic truly happened after @UpdateHLD (a Twitter update account), reminded new fans to purchase the album if they had not already. Considering Louis gained a certain amount of fans during the global lockdown, the initiative went successful, and soon enough, Walls was climbing the charts just like it did on January 31st. As incredible as it seems, it even received its first #1 on the USA iTunes chart. Louis didn’t miss on thanking his fans for their continuous support, expressing how amazed he was by the chart climb.

Louis Offered An Online Live-Stream Show, #LTLivestream

Early December, Louis announced his first live-stream show from London for December 12th, entitled #LTLivestream. He promised a very special show, hosted by the platform Veeps, and didn’t lie. The general sale for the tickets (of course) crashed the website, making everyone panic. Louis then confirmed that the tickets were unlimited. The show was as incredible as originally announced, with an orchestra, fans participating through a digital wall, and a new haircut that conquered the fans. The numbers later revealed that Louis had sold over 160,000 tickets. #LTLivestream is the most sold live-stream for a male solo artist in 2020. Being the generous philanthropist that Louis is, he has given the $2.8 Million raised to many charities and his touring crew. The charities benefitting from the funds are FareShare UK, StageHand, Crew Nation, and Bluebell Wood. And they wonder why we love him.

Louis Surprised His Fans With A New Song Called ‘Copy Of A Copy Of A Copy’

Last but not least, after spending a year on a rollercoaster, Louis revealed a brand new song during #LTLivestream. He had been hinting at it through a teaser for the live-stream and via a cryptic tweet that made everyone think he was referring to ‘Copy Of A’ by Nine Inch Nails. However, he proved everyone wrong during the show with a brand new song. ‘Copy Of A Copy Of A Copy’ reminds us of the general sound of ‘Walls’ (the single), and stole everyone’s heart and soul once again. Immediately after the show, the fans asked Louis when the single would be out, to which he replied that he wasn’t sure about it being one. The disappointment faded away when he said it remained an option and would put it on the second album. We’ll take that.

And that, folks, is how Louis Tomlinson made 2020 his year for us! We have so many memories of Louis this year and can’t pick a favorite! What would be yours? And what do you think is yet to come from Louis next year?