Bees, Birds, Featured, funny, General Pest Control, gifts, love, News, romance, Weird
30 Hits (And Misses) For Your Valentine’s Soundtrack
Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, as we’re sure you’re aware! Hopefully, you have everything planned and you’ve already picked up flowers and/or chocolates for your significant other… but as a quick checklist, do you have:
- Reservations made?
- Suit/dress picked out?
- Babysitter scheduled?
- Gift(s) purchased and wrapped?
Yes? Good…
But now what?
A lot of planning goes into the “events” of Valentine’s Day, but not into the “before and after” moments… Those moments of silence that are unavoidable… The drive home, or that moment when you and your love are cuddled on the couch. Do you turn on the radio to the first station you can find just to have some filler? Do you try to find a movie to put on the TV? Or should you put on a generic jazz album? Does he/she even like jazz (the answer SHOULD be “yes”).
Never fear!!! We’ve taken the guesswork out of your weekend, and picked out some great music to keep you and your date company on the way to that special dinner / romantic weekend getaway / paintball tournament… and don’t worry, these songs are still pretty good picks for all our independent friends as well!
We’ve broken the list up to cater to your musical tastes: Ballad, Funk, Rockabilly, Rock N Roll, Heartbreak, Songs for When You’re Alone; and even a (Dis)Honorable Mentions section!
So put this playlist together (or follow and stream it on Spotify) and let the music do the talkin’!
1). Jonas Brothers – “Lovebug (A Little Bit Longer)
Probably the most recognizable song on the list for the “younger” generation, “Love Bug” is a simple (yet catchy) pop tune describing the breathlessness associated with falling in love.
2). Mel Torme – “Love Is Just a Bug” (At the Crescendo)
Going further back in history is the iconic Mel Torme. His smooth, svelte voice at the time of this recording is reminiscent of a young Bing Crosby… this song also makes a great accompaniment to any marriage proposal as well (nudge, nudge; wink, wink; hint, hint)
3). Louis Prima – “The Love Bug Will Bite You” (The Masters of Swing)
Louis Prima uses this ballad to describe the fantastic (and sometimes maniacal) effects that “the love bug” can have on you when it bites you… The ballad itself is fun, but an added bonus is hearing Mr. Prima’s patter… it really sounds as if he enjoys the song, and you can picture him smiling through the whole number.
4). Meadowman – 17 Year Itch (instrumental)
This instrumental offering is unique. Behind skillful guitar playing, Mr. Meadowman lays down track of cicada chirping that adds to the effect of the music… hauntingly beautiful music that is accented by the innate beauty of nature.
5). Jim Armenti – “Bees Go Buzzing” (Bees Go Buzzing)
In another folk-style offering, Jim Armenti plays a catchy little tune that will get stuck in your head much in the same way that “You Are My Sunshine” got stuck in your head after watchin “Oh Brother, Where Art Thou.” The lyrics are simple and sweet, though, and that’s why it makes the list.
6). Reuben Wilson – “Love Bug” (Blue Breakbeats)
Mr. Wilson’s track is purely instrumental, and it comes from his “Blue Breakbeats” album. We weren’t going to include this track originally (since it’s only bug related in title) but such a smooth piece of jazz simply MUST be included. Don your best slippers and smoking jacket and tap your feet as the music washed over you.
7). Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band – “You’ve Got Something/Betcha’ The Love Bug Bitcha”
Dr Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band gives us an “old school” ballad with a little funk thrown in… the deep bass line provides a nice, steady rhythm while high-pitched vocals smoothly hit those sweet harmonies to really relax you and put you in the mood…
…And speaking of funk, this is where the music starts to pick up on our playlist…
8). Tina Charles – “Love Bug / Sweets For My Sweet”
Tina kicks things off with her rendition of “Love Bug.” Admittedly, the beat is a pretty generic rendition of music offered up at the time (the song was released in 1978), but it’s still an upbeat offering that’s easy to get into. For best results, use this song to sweep your lover into an impromptu dance in the living room.
9). Tower Of Power – “Love Bug” (We Came to Play)
The Tower of Power brings the love AND the funk! Right out the gate, TToP lays down a funky beat that you can’t help to move to… It’s got us groovin’ at the office, we DARE YOU to put it on at home with your “S.O.”… You won’t be able to resist putting on your OWN dance party at home!
10). The Supremes – “Love Is Like An Itching In My Heart”
Even the Supremes aren’t immune to the bite of the Love Bug. They’ve got an itch and they “can’t scratch it.” This song keeps the momentum going, despite the lyrics being somewhat lackluster. It’s another good “groove hit” tgo keep in your repertoire.
11). George Jones – “Love Bug”
This classic ditty will have your toes tappin’ more than the “Boot-Scootin’ Boogie.” George gets bowled over by that “little bitty, teeny, weeny thing they call the love bug.” And we get a classic song as a result.
12). Jimmy Edwards – “Love Bug Crawl”
Jimmy does his best Elvis impression in this song, but instead of being “All Shook Up,” he gets bitten by none other than the love bug (did you REALLY expect anyone else to be the culprit on this list?)
13). Jeff Pasternak – “Love Bug” (You Hardly Know Me)
Mr. Pasternak has a well-ground voice… that gravelly disposition often associated with long stints on the road. His voice perfectly compliments his playstyle, offering an upbeat (yet haunting) warning to let the love bug “move you right along.” And hopefully, if you’re using our playlist, things will move along quite nicely.
14). Slow Joe & the Ginger Accident – “Love Bug” (Sunny Side Up)
Lyrically speaking, Slow Joe doesn’t offer anything mind blowing, but it’s a pretty catchy tune, and occasionally he grinds on the notes, leading you to believe he’s going to break into a bug-themed version of “Roxanne.” He never does, but he still manages to accomplish a sexy quirkiness that’s undeniable.
15). Stevie Ray Vaughan – “Honey Bee” (Couldn’t Stand the Weather)
Stevie Ray Vaughan tears up the guitar in his signature style. This is an easy track to listen to over and over, but you would also be well served to sing along with Mr. Vaughan as you both implore, “tell me little baby that you’ll buzz me all the time.”
16). Baby Bee – “Love Bug” (The Walking Dead Soundtrack Vol. 1)
Baby Bee has a sound very reminiscent of Jet (not to be confused with THE Jets, which is also on this list). It opens up right away, with an in-your-face feeling. It’s no surprise, then, that this song was chosen for the Walking Dead Soundtrack.
17). The Jets – “Love Bug” (The Early Years)
The Jets are a UK band famous for their rockabilly style, but this song is a great throwback song, reminiscent of Chuck Berry’s playfulness combined with that driving guitar sound.
18). Rocky Sharpe & The Replays – “Buzz Buzz Buzz” (Rock-It To Mars)
Rocky and the Replays is another group that borders rock and another genre. They borrow strongly from the doo-wop era as they compare their love to honey from the honeybee (hint: she’s sweeter).
19). Martha Reeves & The Vandellas – “Love Bug Leave My Heart Alone” (The Ultimate Collection)
Martha (and her Vandellas) lament a fella who leaves and then returns, then leaves (and returns) again and again like the seasons (hmmm, it really DOES sound like a pest problem…)
20). Sparker – “Queenbee & The Buzzing Fly”
Sparker laments visiting a lover under the cover of dark… Drifting in his loneliness
21). Sally Morgan – “This Buzzing Sound” (Wandering Through Walls)
Sally struggles to take in the world around her, but she can’t since she is so consumed by her lover that she’s overwhelmed by a “buzzing sound.” She compares herself to a honeybee, which can’t keep its composure near a lily. (It sounds less corny when you listen to it, I promise).
22). Marcy Playground – “Love Bug” (Shapeshifter)
This is a harder sound than other songs Marcy Playground has offered up in the past. It doesn’t really push the genre in any sense, but it’s a good “grungy” track to break up the pace… or speed it up, however you like it.
23). Weezer – All My Friends Are Insects” (Yo Gabba Gabba)
At least Weezer will never be alone, if this fun kid’s song is any indication. Though Weezer’s mothers really wish they would get out more often and meet some real people. Maybe that nice girl from the deli down the street.
24). Queens Of The Stone Age – “Mosquito Song” (Songs for the Deaf)
QoTSA have a dismal outlook in this song. The lyrics are introspective, and can have a chilling effect. A lot of symbolism in this song and its meaning can be interpreted in different ways. Put on your headphones and contemplate to your satisfaction.
25). Ragged Hearts – “Buzzing on Brown” (The Champ)
The Ragged Hearts are “Buzzing on Brown” as they wait for their love to return.
26). The NowhereNauts – “Constant Buzzing” (Warned You)
The NowhereNauts actually lament the lack of “rest” to be found… but it’s still a good song to put on and drown out the world when you’re by yourself.
27). SR-71 – Mosquito
Though their most popular song is probably “Right Now,” pop-punk band Sr-71 had another catchy tune in their single, “Mosquito.” In it, Mitch Allan (the lead singer) describes the tumultuous relationship he had, and sums up his review with “I don’t think about you anymore.” If that was true, though, then why did he write a song about it?
28). Nina Simone – Funkier Than a Mosquito’s Tweeter
A very basic drum beat lays beneath this song performed by Nina… in it, she calls out a former lover about blowing his chance with her through all the terrible things he’s done. Joe Bonamassa also covered this song with a distinctly different sound. Lyrically the songs are the same, but but Bonnamassa applies some aggressive energy to the song that isn’t as overt in Nina’s rendition.
29). Bumblebee Unlimited – Love Bug
(Un)surprisingly, this is the only LP released by Bumblebee Unlimited. A track filled with artists “buzzing” as background vocals and classic lines like “I’ll sting you with my love” probably is NOT the best idea for you to play on Valentine’s Day. Unless you’re starring in your own Rom-Com. In that case, go for it.
Even we have to admit that a cicada-themed album may not be the best thing… especially if it’s not aimed at education or children’s entertainment. The opening track is a rap song titled “Waited 17 Years (to party).” The “17” years comes from (of course) the cycle that cicadas observe… after 17 years underground, they emerge to mate and then die approximately a month later. In this case, perhaps they should have waited another 17 years.
_________________________________
So there you have it, Thirty “Hits and Misses” for your Valentine’s Day playlists… We hope you had some fun reading through and listening. Which songs are your favorite? Do you have any songs we missed? Let us know what you think!
Bees, Birds, Featured, funny, General Pest Control, gifts, love, News, romance, Weird
30 Hits (And Misses) For Your Valentine’s Soundtrack
Valentine’s Day is fast approaching (less than 12 hours away — as we’re sure you’re aware). Hopefully, you have everything planned and you’ve already picked up flowers and/or chocolates for your significant other… but as a quick checklist, do you have:
- Reservations made?
- Suit/dress picked out?
- Babysitter scheduled?
- Gift(s) purchased and wrapped?
Yes? Good…
But now what?
A lot of planning goes into the “events” of Valentine’s Day, but not into the “before and after” moments… Those moments of silence that are unavoidable… The drive home, or that moment when you and your love are cuddled on the couch. Do you turn on the radio to the first station you can find just to have some filler? Do you try to find a movie to put on the TV? Or should you put on a generic jazz album? Does he/she even like jazz (the answer SHOULD be “yes”).
Never fear!!! We’ve taken the guesswork out of your weekend, and picked out some great music to keep you and your date company on the way to that special dinner / romantic weekend getaway / paintball tournament… and don’t worry, these songs are still pretty good picks for all our independent friends as well!
We’ve broken the list up to cater to your musical tastes: Ballad, Funk, Rockabilly, Rock N Roll, Heartbreak, Songs for When You’re Alone; and even a (Dis)Honorable Mentions section!
So put this playlist together (or follow and stream it on Spotify) and let the music do the talkin’!
1). Jonas Brothers – “Lovebug (A Little Bit Longer)
Probably the most recognizable song on the list for the “younger” generation, “Love Bug” is a simple (yet catchy) pop tune describing the breathlessness associated with falling in love.
2). Mel Torme – “Love Is Just a Bug” (At the Crescendo)
Going further back in history is the iconic Mel Torme. His smooth, svelte voice at the time of this recording is reminiscent of a young Bing Crosby… this song also makes a great accompaniment to any marriage proposal as well (nudge, nudge; wink, wink; hint, hint)
3). Louis Prima – “The Love Bug Will Bite You” (The Masters of Swing)
Louis Prima uses this ballad to describe the fantastic (and sometimes maniacal) effects that “the love bug” can have on you when it bites you… The ballad itself is fun, but an added bonus is hearing Mr. Prima’s patter… it really sounds as if he enjoys the song, and you can picture him smiling through the whole number.
4). Meadowman – 17 Year Itch (instrumental)
This instrumental offering is unique. Behind skillful guitar playing, Mr. Meadowman lays down track of cicada chirping that adds to the effect of the music… hauntingly beautiful music that is accented by the innate beauty of nature.
5). Jim Armenti – “Bees Go Buzzing” (Bees Go Buzzing)
In another folk-style offering, Jim Armenti plays a catchy little tune that will get stuck in your head much in the same way that “You Are My Sunshine” got stuck in your head after watchin “Oh Brother, Where Art Thou.” The lyrics are simple and sweet, though, and that’s why it makes the list.
6). Reuben Wilson – “Love Bug” (Blue Breakbeats)
Mr. Wilson’s track is purely instrumental, and it comes from his “Blue Breakbeats” album. We weren’t going to include this track originally (since it’s only bug related in title) but such a smooth piece of jazz simply MUST be included. Don your best slippers and smoking jacket and tap your feet as the music washed over you.
7). Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band – “You’ve Got Something/Betcha’ The Love Bug Bitcha”
Dr Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band gives us an “old school” ballad with a little funk thrown in… the deep bass line provides a nice, steady rhythm while high-pitched vocals smoothly hit those sweet harmonies to really relax you and put you in the mood…
…And speaking of funk, this is where the music starts to pick up on our playlist…
8). Tina Charles – “Love Bug / Sweets For My Sweet”
Tina kicks things off with her rendition of “Love Bug.” Admittedly, the beat is a pretty generic rendition of music offered up at the time (the song was released in 1978), but it’s still an upbeat offering that’s easy to get into. For best results, use this song to sweep your lover into an impromptu dance in the living room.
9). Tower Of Power – “Love Bug” (We Came to Play)
The Tower of Power brings the love AND the funk! Right out the gate, TToP lays down a funky beat that you can’t help to move to… It’s got us groovin’ at the office, we DARE YOU to put it on at home with your “S.O.”… You won’t be able to resist putting on your OWN dance party at home!
10). The Supremes – “Love Is Like An Itching In My Heart”
Even the Supremes aren’t immune to the bite of the Love Bug. They’ve got an itch and they “can’t scratch it.” This song keeps the momentum going, despite the lyrics being somewhat lackluster. It’s another good “groove hit” tgo keep in your repertoire.
11). George Jones – “Love Bug”
This classic ditty will have your toes tappin’ more than the “Boot-Scootin’ Boogie.” George gets bowled over by that “little bitty, teeny, weeny thing they call the love bug.” And we get a classic song as a result.
12). Jimmy Edwards – “Love Bug Crawl”
Jimmy does his best Elvis impression in this song, but instead of being “All Shook Up,” he gets bitten by none other than the love bug (did you REALLY expect anyone else to be the culprit on this list?)
13). Jeff Pasternak – “Love Bug” (You Hardly Know Me)
Mr. Pasternak has a well-ground voice… that gravelly disposition often associated with long stints on the road. His voice perfectly compliments his playstyle, offering an upbeat (yet haunting) warning to let the love bug “move you right along.” And hopefully, if you’re using our playlist, things will move along quite nicely.
14). Slow Joe & the Ginger Accident – “Love Bug” (Sunny Side Up)
Lyrically speaking, Slow Joe doesn’t offer anything mind blowing, but it’s a pretty catchy tune, and occasionally he grinds on the notes, leading you to believe he’s going to break into a bug-themed version of “Roxanne.” He never does, but he still manages to accomplish a sexy quirkiness that’s undeniable.
15). Stevie Ray Vaughan – “Honey Bee” (Couldn’t Stand the Weather)
Stevie Ray Vaughan tears up the guitar in his signature style. This is an easy track to listen to over and over, but you would also be well served to sing along with Mr. Vaughan as you both implore, “tell me little baby that you’ll buzz me all the time.”
16). Baby Bee – “Love Bug” (The Walking Dead Soundtrack Vol. 1)
Baby Bee has a sound very reminiscent of Jet (not to be confused with THE Jets, which is also on this list). It opens up right away, with an in-your-face feeling. It’s no surprise, then, that this song was chosen for the Walking Dead Soundtrack.
17). The Jets – “Love Bug” (The Early Years)
The Jets are a UK band famous for their rockabilly style, but this song is a great throwback song, reminiscent of Chuck Berry’s playfulness combined with that driving guitar sound.
18). Rocky Sharpe & The Replays – “Buzz Buzz Buzz” (Rock-It To Mars)
Rocky and the Replays is another group that borders rock and another genre. They borrow strongly from the doo-wop era as they compare their love to honey from the honeybee (hint: she’s sweeter).
19). Martha Reeves & The Vandellas – “Love Bug Leave My Heart Alone” (The Ultimate Collection)
Martha (and her Vandellas) lament a fella who leaves and then returns, then leaves (and returns) again and again like the seasons (hmmm, it really DOES sound like a pest problem…)
20). Sparker – “Queenbee & The Buzzing Fly”
Sparker laments visiting a lover under the cover of dark… Drifting in his loneliness
21). Sally Morgan – “This Buzzing Sound” (Wandering Through Walls)
Sally struggles to take in the world around her, but she can’t since she is so consumed by her lover that she’s overwhelmed by a “buzzing sound.” She compares herself to a honeybee, which can’t keep its composure near a lily. (It sounds less corny when you listen to it, I promise).
22). Marcy Playground – “Love Bug” (Shapeshifter)
This is a harder sound than other songs Marcy Playground has offered up in the past. It doesn’t really push the genre in any sense, but it’s a good “grungy” track to break up the pace… or speed it up, however you like it.
23). Weezer – All My Friends Are Insects” (Yo Gabba Gabba)
At least Weezer will never be alone, if this fun kid’s song is any indication. Though Weezer’s mothers really wish they would get out more often and meet some real people. Maybe that nice girl from the deli down the street.
24). Queens Of The Stone Age – “Mosquito Song” (Songs for the Deaf)
QoTSA have a dismal outlook in this song. The lyrics are introspective, and can have a chilling effect. A lot of symbolism in this song and its meaning can be interpreted in different ways. Put on your headphones and contemplate to your satisfaction.
25). Ragged Hearts – “Buzzing on Brown” (The Champ)
The Ragged Hearts are “Buzzing on Brown” as they wait for their love to return.
26). The NowhereNauts – “Constant Buzzing” (Warned You)
The NowhereNauts actually lament the lack of “rest” to be found… but it’s still a good song to put on and drown out the world when you’re by yourself.
27). SR-71 – Mosquito
Though their most popular song is probably “Right Now,” pop-punk band Sr-71 had another catchy tune in their single, “Mosquito.” In it, Mitch Allan (the lead singer) describes the tumultuous relationship he had, and sums up his review with “I don’t think about you anymore.” If that was true, though, then why did he write a song about it?
28). Nina Simone – Funkier Than a Mosquito’s Tweeter
A very basic drum beat lays beneath this song performed by Nina… in it, she calls out a former lover about blowing his chance with her through all the terrible things he’s done. Joe Bonamassa also covered this song with a distinctly different sound. Lyrically the songs are the same, but but Bonnamassa applies some aggressive energy to the song that isn’t as overt in Nina’s rendition.
29). Bumblebee Unlimited – Love Bug
(Un)surprisingly, this is the only LP released by Bumblebee Unlimited. A track filled with artists “buzzing” as background vocals and classic lines like “I’ll sting you with my love” probably is NOT the best idea for you to play on Valentine’s Day. Unless you’re starring in your own Rom-Com. In that case, go for it.
Even we have to admit that a cicada-themed album may not be the best thing… especially if it’s not aimed at education or children’s entertainment. The opening track is a rap song titled “Waited 17 Years (to party).” The “17” years comes from (of course) the cycle that cicadas observe… after 17 years underground, they emerge to mate and then die approximately a month later. In this case, perhaps they should have waited another 17 years.
_________________________________
So there you have it, Thirty “Hits and Misses” for your Valentine’s Day playlists… We hope you had some fun reading through and listening. Which songs are your favorite? Do you have any songs we missed? Let us know what you think!
Featured, General Pest Control, Gross, News, Uncategorized, Weird
Happy Bugs-giving?
Gobbling on grubs and scarfing down scarabs for Thanksgiving?!?
Just double-checked… “How to make bug-filled Thanksgiving dishes” was NOT in our recipe books.
Gizmag posted an article about entomophagy (eating insects), stating that 80 countries have some form of insect consumption in their diet. A London company even gave away free insect-inclusive items as part of a publicity stunt.
Would you like flies with that? (Photo Courtesy gizmag.com)
Sure, we’re aware that some cultures have included insects as part of their menu…
At many Asian vendors, you can get your grub on a stick (literally!!!!)
Street vendors in Asia, Africa, and the Americas have been offering meal(worms) to go for years but it looks like the bug craze — which is still a very foreign concept in the US — is hitting a little “closer to home” as of late… and no, we’re not talking about Bear Grylls’ latest survival/reality show…
Although we’re BIG supporters of keeping bugs off our kitchen tables — especially during the holidays when family is over— our interest was piqued by a rather “buggy” Thanksgiving meal being offered up this year in the Audubon Insectarium‘s “Bug Appetit” kitchen in New Orleans.
Some items on the Thanksgiving-themed menu include “turkey with cornbread and mealworm stuffing,” “wax worm cranberry sauce” and “pumpkin pie with a crispy cricket topping.”
We’re still not convinced that the pilgrims had similar recipes, despite the adorable hat. (Photo Courtesy NOLA.com)
The Insectarium is known for its exhibits housing THOUSANDS of live bugs (our tech’s hearts just skipped a beat), and in addition to their seasonal offerings, they have “year-round” insect cuisine available, such as chocolate “chirp” cookies and “six legged salsa” using crickets as an ingredient.
This isn’t the first year the Insectarium has offered this type of holiday fare, either… they’ve made their own tradition of it!
Hope they don’t mind, but we’ll stick to our bug-free dishes and traditions this year!
“What kind of Thanksgiving dinner is this? Where’s the turkey, Chuck? Don’t you know anything about Thanksgiving dinners? Where’s the mashed potatoes? Where’s the cranberry sauce? Where’s the pumpkin pie?” – Patricia ‘Peppermint Patty’ Reichart, Peanuts
What about you? Have you ever had a buggy dish? Would you be adventurous enough to try a turkey dinner that’s a little more “exotic?” What dishes/traditions are you looking forward to as Thanksgiving approaches?
