History of the Microphone

By Daniela the Sound Chick | Published: January 25, 2012

The actual term “microphone” was thought up way back in 1827 by Charles Wheatstone, best known for his electric telegraph.  The first microphone as we think of it was invented in 1876 by Emile Berliner as part of a telephone. Berliner also invented the phonographs and the original Apple iPod (that last part doesn’t seem right, but if it’s on the internet it must be true). Berliner then sold his patent rights to Alexander Graham Bell and his new-fangled telephone for $50,000, which was a while a lot of coin back then.

Over the years the microphone has been improved as technology using microphones has developed. Telephones were followed by P.A. Systems (P.A. stands for Public Address, thanks again internet!), then radio and television broadcasts, and finally stadium concerts. The advances were usually towards eliminating noise (i.e. static) and feedback (i.e. those weird echoes that sound like a ghost straight out of Scooby Doo, Ruh-Roh!)

Microphones and technology has become so good that many performers use wireless microphones, allowing them movement on stage without worrying about tripping or unplugging the microphone wire (just one of the other hundred wires on stage). It is with this in mind, that I suggest all microphone scientists shift their focus to hover boards, because microphones are awesome enough as it is.

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Top 30 Christmas Songs: Part 2

By Daniela the Sound Chick | Published: December 20, 2011

Christmas is less than a week away and there are still 20 songs you need to listen to before Santa comes to town.   I hope all of your shopping is done and now it’s time for food, family, fun and some great Christmas music. The previous 10 set the pace for fantastic Christmas listening but the following 20 are here to bring you down the home stretch of the Christmas season.

20. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas- Ella Fitzgerald

Under most circumstances I will side with the original version of most songs.  When I heard this version, I changed my mind. Ella Fitzgerald is elegant and tremendous. Her whole Christmas album is scary good.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWI-EoTfu20

19. Blue Christmas- Elvis Presley

Elvis’ unmistakable voice provides this holiday classic.  I have to hear this one before Christmas. I don’t really know why. It’s sad, but nostalgic.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cK4BeD5I-Pk

18. The Christmas Song- Nat King Cole

Although Nat King Cole was not the original artist, he does the best job. This is the staple by which all other Christmas songs are judged. I mean it is called “The Christmas Song” after all. I will sing along with any version. That’s how much I just like this song.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__kQ1PCP6B0

17. Sweet Angie The Christmas Tree Angel- Fran Allison

This isn’t your typical radio Christmas song.  This song seems to fly below the radar of many people during the Christmas season.  This old song is definitely worth checking out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wbpVJLTcJ-k

16. Sleigh Ride- The Andrews Sisters

The Andrews Sisters harmonize for a fantastic version of “Sleigh Ride”. They were popular in the 1940’s and worked with Bing Crosby.  Anything by the Andrews Sisters during Christmas time is worth a listen.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cgCmUrfZ9Jw

15. Silent Night- Josh Groban

“Silent Night” is sung all over the world every year. It is sung in choirs and congregations on Christmas Eve.  However, no one can do it as well as Josh Groban.  Seriously.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GOsYdchpM3s

14. Theme Song to “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”- Thurl Ravenscroft

This one is almost a Halloween song with all of its grisly imagery.  I find it hard to believe it’s actually a Christmas song, but I can’t help getting nostalgic when he mentions arsenic sauce.  The song is popular because of the movie, but still gets radio play every year. An odd and fantastic Christmas song.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nzXKWKaxt3c

13. Carol of the Bells- Trans-Siberian Orchestra

Who thought Christmas music could be so intense? Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s amazing stuff never ceases to amaze me. Phenomenal.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vNcGlM8O3I

12. Holly Jolly Christmas- Burl Ives

The lyrics “ have a holly jolly Christmas, it’s the best time of the year”.  I think that explains it. Burl Ives is great.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Up1t5siifEw

11. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer- Dean Martin

This song has been remade very many times. I think Dean did the best job. He made a few slight modifications, added a little class, and called him “Rudy”. That’s all I needed.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=daYO4W3X1Nc&feature=fvst

10.  Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree- Brenda Lee

Brenda Lee brought a lot of rock back in 1958.  “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” sent a new and fresh approach to Christmas music. To me, it signifies the break between classic 40’s and 50’s Christmas to modern and contemporary Christmas music.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6xNuUEnh2g&feature=related

9.    You Make it Feel Like Christmas- Neil Diamond

Neil Diamond can make any song great.  He puts so much power into this song that he makes me think he is singing it to me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6cfM7yQMwo

8.    Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays- N’SYNC

This one is more of a contemporary approach. Despite the frosted tips and late 1990’s fashion, N’SYNC managed to put out good Christmas song.  It has a great upbeat tempo and is simply a “feel good” song for this time of year.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wKj92352UAE&ob=av2e

7.    Little Drummer Boy- Bing Crosby

Bing again? Yes, but this time for a good reason. Not only is his version the best, but there are two more versions modeled after his original that are great. There is another version with Bing Crosby and make-up wearing David Bowie. They shockingly partnered with each other in 1977 to release an incredibly popular duet  “Peace on Earth/ Little Drummer Boy”.  Not to be outdone, Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly made a spoof that is pretty funny if you have seen the original.

Bing Crosby

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pD2HGt73wCc

Bing Crosby/ David Bowie

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DiXjbI3kRus

Will Ferrell/ John C. Reilly

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJBFD-Wvc7U

6.    This is Christmas- Luther Vandross

Incredible song.  If you have heard it, then you know what I am talking about. If you haven’t heard it, do it now.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZooeCired0s

5.    That Spirit of Christmas- Ray Charles

Ray helps to remind us the joys experienced this time of the year.  His soulful and impactful voice couples wonderful and meaningful lyrics. This song was also part of the movie National Lampoons Christmas Vacation.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dsMf-6F1aVM

4.    Santa Claus is Coming to Town – Bruce Springsteen

This is my personal favorite.  I seriously listen to this song a hundred times a year and sing the whole thing.  It has everything that could be good in a Christmas song and it has everything good from Bruce Springsteen.  A unique arrangement, signature saxophone, his powerful delivery, and the song is about Christmas. What else can anyone ask for?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eg4ys5whesE

3.    Winter Wonderland- Louis Armstrong

I might be a little heavy on the Louis. I know that. There are plenty of great versions “Winter Wonderland”.  However, the best is by Louis Armstrong.  It just has that raw and unadulterated sound that comes only from this time period. No fancy laser sounds. No overdone sleigh bells. It is just a great song.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vH6yp0JfUIw

2.    Please Come Home For Christmas - Charles Brown

This one is the original by Charles Brown. Not the Eagles version and not the Aaron Neville version.  It reminds us all of someone we just want to come home for Christmas and how this season is special. Christmas absolutely cannot happen until I hear this song.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=itdNoGtPQ3I

1.    White Christmas- Bing Crosby

Simply what everyone in Texas wishes every year. This classic from the 1940’s embodies the Christmas season.  Not only was it a chart topper, but it was also featured in the film White Christmas starring Bing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GJSUT8Inl14

 

I hope you get a chance to check out all of these Christmas favorites. Have a safe and Merry Christmas from everyone here at RDM Audio!

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Top 30 Christmas Songs: Part 1

By Daniela the Sound Chick | Published: December 8, 2011

It’s that time of year. You can see your breath, a general cheer is in the air, and Christmas music is on the radio. There are so many songs that bring nostalgia and happiness to people during the Christmas season. There are 30 songs that should be on your Christmas list this time of year, read below for #30-21 of the greatest Christmas songs of all time. Some you may know by heart and others are definitely worth your time to check out… 

30. O Holy Night- Nat King Cole

This Christmas favorite is sung by many, but the version from his 1960 album The Magic of Christmas has both the elegance and genuine feeling of a classic.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4uP32mnAjY

29. Feliz Navidad- Jose Feliciano

“Feliz Navidad” is a Spanish song recorded in 1970 and has an English meaning of “Happy Nativity”.  Its classic upbeat trumpet line keeps everyone dancing and having a good time, despite having no idea what they are singing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ihW56Xa3XGQ

28. Let it Snow- Boyz II Men ft. Brian McKnight

Boys II Men’s harmonic and smooth version of” Let it Snow” is the perfect song for easy listening. Their festive vests, fantastic vocals, and addition of Brian McKnight bring happiness to all that hear.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6-YQQS2gaw

27.  Christmas Time is Here – Vince Guaraldi Trio

The classic Christmas special from the popular Peanuts cartoons can be seen on many television sets during December. Its simple piano and chorus bring back memories of Christmases long ago.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPG3zSgm_Qo

26. Mariah Carey- All I want For Christmas is You

Before Mariah Carey was married to Nick Cannon and spending too much money on her child’s bedroom she was blowing our minds with Christmas cheer in 1994. This combination of an upbeat tempo, sleigh bells, and powerful singing makes it a prime example of Christmas 90’s gold.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXQViqx6GMY

25. Santa Baby- Eartha Kitt

The original is the best. The 1953 version complete with background singers and orchestra help her state her case for lavish gifts.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g7T0IK99ELs

24. Silver Bells- Bing Crosby and Carol Richards

Bing Crosby is synonymous with Christmas and this isn’t the last time you will see him on this list. Despite the many versions of “Silver Bells” that have come over the years, his version just has it. There is no real explanation for how good it is. That’s how you know.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4mkRR4oJNM

23. Where are You Christmas- Faith Hill

This song featured in the 2000 remake of How the Grinch Stole Christmas brings hope to both the Grinch and all of us during this time of year. Cindy Lou Who sings the song in the movie and can melt even the coldest of hearts.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmGSHZYZ74c

22. What Christmas Means to Me- Stevie Wonder

His soulful and original version of this song can keep a toe tapping. Just listen to the piano, hear the bells, and try not to smile.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ga-qd5FYUjA

21. ‘Zat You, Santa Claus- Louis Armstrong

Probably one of the most underrated Christmas songs out there. The New Orleans native has a unique take on Santa Claus. His iconic voice coupled with magical trumpet control gives it an unmistakable sound. Seriously a song worth checking out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQQU2ykEQqo

 

 

There they are, 10 of the best 30 Christmas songs. If you don’t see your favorite or just trying to get in the Christmas spirit this season start with these. Come back for the other two installments of this Christmas series and find out the final 20 songs that should be on your playlist.

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Junior League Charity Ball

By Daniela the Sound Chick | Published: December 6, 2011

Saturday night marked the 30th anniversary of Junior League; a community service driven women’s organization making a difference right here in Bryan-College Station. It hosts the Stuff the Bus Campaign, Brazos Valley Food Bank Backpack Program, The Girls Scouts STEM Conference, and many other events around Brazos Valley. The Junior League is also responsible for the annual Bargain Blitz and the Downtown Love Run fundraisers. Their biggest fundraiser, and with good reason, is the Charity Ball.

The Ball was held at the Hilton Hotel in College Station and featured music by The Wonders Band, DJ Services by—yours truly—RDM Audio (but not me, except for like a song or two), and the hilarious return of the Follies. The Follies featured classics such as Thriller, the Men in Black theme song, All the Single Ladies, and was capped off by Time of my Life (the instant classic dance made popular in Dirty Dancing). RDM’s owner Rudy Grimaldo even made a cameo appearance in one of the skits (but probably shouldn’t move to Hollywood anytime soon).

Overall, the event was a wonderful time for all and featured great food, music, performances, and friends to share it with. Better yet, the event raised money for those in need in Brazos Valley. RDM Audio was honored to be a part of the Charity Ball and cannot wait until next year’s. Thank you Junior League for hiring/inviting/hosting us and congratulations on 30 years of service in the Brazos Valley!

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Happy Thanksgiving!

By Daniela the Sound Chick | Published: November 24, 2011

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! For some, Thanksgiving is about football. For others, it’s about eating until they couldn’t possibly eat that last bite of apple pie (and then refilling their plate full of turkey, dressing, and mashed potatoes).  And some just want the day to be over with while they’re waiting in line so they can get drastically cheaper TVs and Blu-ray Players.

But at RDM, we’re a little old school. We wear Reebok Pumps when we party like its 1999 in between soul train marathons and impromptu Thriller flash dances.  We also celebrate Thanksgiving for what it is intended, a day to reflect and give thanks for the previous days, weeks, months, years we have been blessed to have.

Don’t get me wrong, we will still watch football, stuff our faces, and try to get the iCoolestDeviceEverUntilNextWeek device for cheaper than anyone else too(I’ve had my eye on one all day). But those actions will not define our holiday. We took a little time this week to think about what we are thankful for, and here are some of the staff’s thanks:

James—Thankful for Rudy. But he decided that was not his final answer
and, instead, is thankful for our business that is doing well, faithful
customers that have been with us for a long time, new customers, and more
grandchildren!

Justin—Thankful for his new baby boy on the way and for his wife.

Thomas—Thankful for user-friendly electronics (as he hovers over and
tinkers with an equalizer rack in the shop).

Dayna—Thankful for cooler weather, finally, and upcoming family time.

John—Thankful for family relationships that have become closer throughout
the year and overcoming hardships together.

Robin—Thankful for her future daughter-in-law as her son prepares to get
married.

Rudy—Thankful for Ashley, Olivia, Aaron and Gavin, all of our staff at
RDM and to wake up everyday to go to work with my father and father-in-law.

We hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving, regardless of the outcome of the game, and that you took a little time to reflect on what you are thankful for and share it with the special people in your life. We would love for you to share with us in the comments if you’d like.

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Top 10 Wedding Songs

By Daniela the Sound Chick | Published: November 10, 2011

When I was 5, I was going to marry Barney. At 12 it was Justin Timberlake (I’m still holding out hope!!!). Now, with Mr. Right soon defeating Boy Wrongs (Super villains, or my past loves), all I can think about is my wedding, and almost as important, the party after. A lot of important issues will be addressed: Food, Cake, Decorations, Seating, etc. But nothing can separate a normal wedding from the greatest wedding ever like music. So without further ado, here are the 10 weddings songs in no particular order that must be played at the Daniela-Timberlake wedding (It’s going to happen).

1. Always – Atlantic Starr
The best first dance song ever. Especially when JT will be seductively cooing it into my ear.*Blush*

2. Don’t Speak– No Doubt
I worshipped Gwen Stefani growing up, and have always danced anytime this song came on the radio. It’s not B-A-N-A-N-A-S, but it will be played at my wedding.

3. Baby I Go Crazy – Josh Turner
I’m a country girl at heart. And his voice melts frozen butter. What more can I say?

4. Wonderful Tonight – Eric Clapton
This classic was and is the song my Dad sings to Mom. Does it get sweeter than that? No, no it does not.

5. Shout – Isley Brothers
A dance song even grandma will get down to. Who doesn’t want that?

6. This I Promise You – N*sync
If the whole band is going to be there I might as well use them.

7. From This Moment On – Shania twain and Bryan White
Great duet from one of the greatest country music woman artists of all time. People will be weeping in the streets for weeks when the reception is over, it will be that good.

8. Crazy in Love – Beyonce
A glass of champagne and everyone will be going “Uh Oh Uh Oh Uh Oh Oh No No”(In a good way) watching me bust moves.

9. Truly Madly Deeply – Savage Garden
Just perfect.
“I want to stand with you on a mountain.
I want to bathe with you in the sea.
I want to lay like this forever.
Until the sky falls down on me…”

10. Time After Time – Cyndi Lauper
Clichéd? Yes. Great wedding song? Yes. Who won’t like it? No one. That’s two yeses to one no for those keeping score out there. The song makes the cut.

What are your favorite wedding songs? Let me know in the comments section!

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Hog Splash 2011

By Daniela the Sound Chick | Published: November 1, 2011

The day started early. We arrived to the mud pits around 8 am, with the sun beaming down on us at a warm 85 degrees, the beginning of a long, hot day. We changed into our game jerseys’ and surveyed the competition, the field of play, and anxiously awaited for the Captains’ meeting to end. We practiced our bumps, sets, and falling in the mud, waiting for our first game to start.

Pumping through the speakers was a mix of Miley Cyrus, Justin Bieber, and Texas country. The sweet aroma of sausage on a stick and turkey legs complemented the unpleasant smells of mud being swirled around by feet, and hands, and elbows, and yes, the occasional face. The start of play was signaled with a pig’s snort (those clever radio guys), and so began 40 minutes of intense, competitive, and overwhelmingly fun mud volleyball.

The rules were altered slightly to the benefit of the players. The winner of the match was whoever had the most points after the 40 minutes, with teams switching sides at the 20-minute mark.   The sides of the pit were sloped inward, so it was ruled in if a ball hit the slope and bounced inward. There was free subbing so if when we got tired, someone was available to jump in and play.

All the teams wanted to win, but no one forgot the spirit of the event and were very supportive of each other. The eventual winners were also the biggest donors (provided the site, dug the pits, provided food), Slovacek’s Sausage Factory, which gave everyone else to goad them with rigging the event in good fun.  All in all the event raised over $20,000 and was a great success!  The Real Dirty Mob (RDM, clever clever!) cannot wait to play and experience the 2012 Hog Splash and will be gunning for their name on the first place trophy.

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