Clay Aiken Tour Scores New Highs in Cleveland

Where do I begin? ... Theme from Love Story.
View Cleveland video by Scarlett full screen at YouTube.

Tried & True Troupe Thrills

Cleveland Concert Raises the Bar

Tried & True audiences thought Clay Aiken & Co. reached the pinnacle with the Pittsburgh performance, but Cleveland reports from Saturday's show prove this concert tour just keeps getting better each night.

From the famous "Invisible" shirt tug dating back to the American Idol 2 Tour to exquisite vocals by Clay and his singing partner, Quiana Parler, to the varied "stump the band" stylings for "Who's Sorry Now" (Bhangra, Latin, and opera in Cleveland), the talented musicians are presenting an entertaining show at every stop.

Instrumentalists include Ben Cohn, conductor/arranger/keyboards; Adam Fallen, guitar; Del Atkins, bass; and Felix Pollard, drums.

Concert Recaps Fill in Blanks

Like countless fans connected to the concert via Cyberspace, I was on the receiving end of a cellcert Saturday night. Separated by expandable photos by cindilu2, these recaps from fans in the Palace Theatre house help replay the Cleveland concert.

cindilu2: Fantastic concert. By far the best of my three. "Unchained" was beyond amazing. Best I've heard him sing it since Raleigh. "Both Sides Now" was a special treat, and "In My Life" was simply sublime.

Hobbes: My favorites were "Unchained Melody," "Build Me Up Buttercup", "Mack The Knife", and "Love Story"; but the opera was my favorite moment of the evening. It was amazing. The Indian (Bhangra) version was great, too, with Quiana taking on most of it. Clay was laughing too hard at her dancing to add much.

When Clay was talking about the band members he said that Felix and his wife had an anniversary coming up on Feb. 28. Felix had told him that he and his wife had danced their first dance to "Something About Us," so he is going to have them dance to the song on stage that night.

When he did his bit jokingly complaining about cellcerters, he asked a woman who she was talking to and where she was. The certer was from Peru and the person receiving the cert (Mindy) was in Kansas. He asked if she could fly in all the way from Peru, why couldn’t Mindy show up from Kansas. Very cute!

Beagle3: The concert was awesome. There were a lot of men, the most I've ever seen at a Clay Aiken concert; and it was nice to see. This was the first of my five concerts, and I can't wait to see it again in Cincinnati.

Eight of us are in our suite reliving the concert. Unfortunately, there's a huge fraternity convention in the hotel this weekend, which does not bode well for sleeping. I think we'll be up most of the night.

all4luv: I loved the colors of the lighting they used as a backdrop for the stage. The blues were especially beautiful.

I have not seen "Solitaire" in this concert series yet as my two shows so far have been last night and tonight. I can say that "Both Sides Now" is a masterpiece, and I would not give up him performing that song for any other!

Cyn: In our Meet & Greet, Clay was asked about his choice of opening songs, "Love Story." He said the song was supposed to be on the TNT CD, but it didn’t make the final cut. He really loves the song and decided the lyrics ("Where do I begin ...?") would be a great way to start the concert.

Featured videos by Scarlett include "Who's Sorry Now," Quiana's solo ("Cry Me a River"), "Suspcious Minds," "Unchained Melody," and "Both Sides Now." To save video/audio files, see Cleveland Clack.

'Who's Sorry Now' in three genres.
See Cleveland video full screen at YouTube.

Quiana sings 'Cry Me a River.'
Link to YouTube to view Cleveland video full screen.

Clay & Co. sing 'Suspicious Minds' in Cleveland.
View video full screen at YouTube.

Clay's signature 'Unchained Melody' closes concert.
View Cleveland video by Scarlett full screen at YouTube.

Cleveland encore features 'Both Sides Now.'
View video by Scarlett full screen at YouTube.

Postscripts to Scarlett's videos are her one-sentence summary of the Cleveland concert and a clickable screen cap from the show:

It's always been wonderful, but last night was way beyond that.

Click to expand Cleveland screen cap by Scarlett.

Have an awesome week, Clay Nation! Catch you after Connecticut ...

Caro

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Clay Aiken Dedicates Atlanta Encore to All Fans

Photo by Robb Cohen links to 14 picture-slide Atlanta show.

Cobb Concert Intimate, Powerful

Clay Aiken & Co. Wow Atlanta

Clay Aiken's Tried & True Concert in Atlanta's Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Wednesday will be remembered for many reasons; but for the countless fans listening around the globe via cellstream, it was the night they received a shout-out from the stage.

In typical Aiken shtick, the singer inquired if someone was typing at the other end of a certain cellphone. "Oh, no," replied the flustered cellcerter, "she's broadcasting it all over the Internet."

Clay then dedicated, "In My Life," the first of two encores, to all who have been with him for eight years in the audience and/or listening via the Internet.

According to early recaps, there's still nothing like being in the hall when Clay presents a show.

Clay performs in Atlanta T&T Concert. Photo by Cohen.

Brightstar: The power and beauty of his voice is just magnificent. While a real gift, cellcerts just don't begin to communicate the rich, full, exquisite tones and nuances of his voice. Sounds nice on a cellcert, better on a video, but amazing in person. It's almost like a journey in itself.

The opening number is so beautiful it defies description. The notes and sounds just flow up and down and across and through the theater and into and around one's heart, flowing and growing ever more expressive and strong and moving until you forget anything and everything around you and just surrender yourself to the experience.

I loved the entire concert --the power ballads, the tender, soft songs, the lively ones alike. He's just so talented and versatile and has such power and beauty in his voice that he can successfully deliver almost any kind of concert.

I wish every person in the world could attend at least one show and experience his talent and versatility. He's a treasure, a gift, and he deserves to be heard. I'm glad I'm one of the lucky ones who gets to hear him.

Margaret: Clay was wonderful last night. He has never been in better voice; he just keeps getting better and better. It looks like he bought some Texas boots. On to Knoxville, then to the Grand Ole Opry, then home for a week, and then we start again for three concerts. I love being a Clay Aiken fan!

Click to expand photo of Singer Man at Atlanta Meet & Greet.

Sally: This was a Clay I've never seen before. The large nearly empty stage was the perfect backdrop for this very intimate experience; Clay, singing songs he knows and loves.

He was relaxed and; for the first time, I could feel him inside the magic bubble that he always creates. It's difficult to describe; but this was definitely Clay unmasked, lost in the songs that were coming from deep within his soul.

I left the venue thinking about his lyrics from "The Real Me" and realized that for me at least, I saw the real Clay. He enriched my life in a way that I'll never forget.

Scarlett, currently en route to Knoxville to locate an inverter and upload Atlanta clack before the next concert, summed up the evening with one line:

How does perfection get better and better every time?

Clay sings signature version of "Unchained Melody."
View Houston video by Scarlett full screen at YouTube.

Knoxville Media Promotes Concert

The Tennessee media has featured two interviews promoting tonight's concert in the Bijou Theatre located in historical downtown Knoxville.

Built in 1909 as an addition to the Lamar House Hotel, the theater has, at various times in its history, served as a venue for live performances of both traditional theatre and vaudeville

For tonight's Tried & True Concert, the doors open at 7, and the show starts at 8 p.m. ET. Here are links to the Knoxville interviews:

Clay Aiken keeps his feet on the ground long after American Idol from Knoxville.com.

Clay Aiken shoots true with an album drawn from the classics from The Daily Times.

Have an awesome week, Clay Nation! See you after the Knoxville Concert!

Caro

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Clay Aiken Concert a Smash Hit in Houston

Clay Aiken in stunning performance of 'In My Life.'
View video by Scarlett full screen at YouTube.

A Night To Remember

Houston Concert Valentine Treat

Clay Aiken's Tried & True Tour scored a smash hit in Houston's Jones Hall for the Performing Arts on Valentine's Night.

Fan recaps and concert clack are still coming in, but Feb. 14, 2011, was a night to remember. Paralleling the magnificent vocals were the ever-present grins. Even the beautiful opening video, which actually comes near the end of the concert, provided a comical aside.

It's a wonder Scarlett was was able to capture the song. In a post-concert conversation, she explained, "I had to lean over a fan whom I hadn't seen in a while. I was practically sprawled over her just to get IML, but I think it turned out great."

That it did! Many thanks to all the videographers, photographers, and concert attendees who share their experiences with message board fans. Below are a few that help replay the Houston concert.

EmeraldEyes: Clay Aiken threw me up against the wall and had his way with me for two hours. It was sublime. We had best seats ever. Second row dead center. Some of the first row seats were obstructed by the speakers. Poor Scarlett had to act the part of a contortionist to get video.

You know how vocally awesome Clay was. The one thing you won't get on a cellcert is the magnificence of the "Theme from Love Story." It was fascinating watching him press out those notes that bounced off the walls of Jones Hall with such force that I thought we would be flattened like pancakes.

When you're in the audience, all you hear is a totally amazing vocal instrument. Clack does not do the voice justice. I had forgotten how great Clay's voice really is. You would be hard-pressed to find a singer that can do what Clay does for two hours straight, practically night after night, with total perfection.

Other random thoughts: Quiana is a beautiful woman; she and Clay really do have a special relationship that shows on stage ... Clay's lead-in chat to "In My Life" was very poignant ... There was a better turn-out than I was expecting with those ticket prices.

Clay joked several times at the sparseness of the audience: "tried to get the Astrodome" and "we could "all fit up on stage," after which he shook his head. He was probably afraid some fans would take him up on that.

Starbrite: I was at Jones Hall, 4th row seats, dead center. The best seats I've ever had at this venue!

Clay was fabulous, and I honestly believe this was the best I've ever heard him. He was so relaxed and funny. His hair looked great, and I just loved the sweater and tie.

"Solitaire" absolutely brought me to tears. This was to be my only concert, but now I'm considering going to Dallas in March. I think I really need to experience this again.

Clay closed Houston concert with 'Solitaire.'
View video by Scarlett full screen at YouTube.

jojobugs: The concert last night was fantastic. I was at the PBS meet and greet. While taking the photos, Clay asked where we were from; and we said, "Houston." On mine, I added Northern England; so he answered in his cute English accent.

The man is just gorgeous. My friend's daughter, who is 17, cried getting her photo taken. The photo is now her avatar on Facebook.

I was at the concert with my husband and was pleased that Clay sang "Something About Us," as this is his favorite song off the On My Way Here CD.

I loved every second of the concert. He sings the songs from the heart. I cried during Unchained Melody; it was beautiful. I loved Quiana singing "A Foggy Day In London Town."

katymom: When Clay walked out and started singing, it was the most glorious sound and sight. Love Story was amazing. The power quivered my insides.

Whether he was unleashing a glory note or caressing a note like a gentle lover, the audience gave him rapt attention. I heard a man behind me saying, "There isn't a pop singer who can do this with his voice."

"Unchained Melody" is now his song, just like "Solitaire." He graciously thanked Ben for the arrangement, but he made it his. I appreciate that he appreciates that he and Quiana can sing, unlike those who have to use autotune. That man can sing, and his confidence exudes from him.

clayrevolution1956: The concert was wonderful! I am one who was not crazy about the album, but the show was fantastic. Clay was in fine voice. Solitaire blew everyone away at the end, and he got a standing ovation.

After the show, about 25-30 fans/NJU, about six of whom were men, waited at the stage door. I know he hasn't been doing the bus lines, but there seemed to be some folks there who wanted his autograph. Some of the musicians came out and we told them we enjoyed the show.

When Clay appeared, everyone cheered and applauded and said, "Great show!" People started asking for him to sign things. Well, I have a signed Playbill, but I had never gotten a hand shake.

When he got to me and looked at me with his pen in his hand, poised to sign, I said, "Clay, could I shake your hand?" Since he had the pen in his right hand, he grasped my hand with his left hand. Eeeeeee! I finally shook Clay's hand!! And my travel buddy got one, too!

Houston concert photos by Groovehouse.
The middle picture is clickable.

Aiken Stays True to the Music

Prior to the concert, there was an excellent story that I linked as an after-thought in the Valentine entry. Aiken Stays True to the Music by Michael D. Clark is a "must read" for fans. Here is an excerpt:

With his latest album, Tried and True, he has finally found his niche, reworking classic tunes from the '50s and '60s like "Mack the Knife" and "Unchained Melody."

When Aiken's tried and true was released last summer, Tried and True debuted at No. 9 on the Billboard 200 albums. That's high enough to make Michael Buble notice the competition.

The Houston Press reviewer, whose beat is normally rock shows, gave Clay props, especially for the tastefully arranged 'Unchained Melody' that showcases Aiken's wide vocal range. Three photos from the accompanying slideshow are posted above.

Have an awesome week, Clay Nation!

Caro

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Clay Aiken's Sarasota Concert Proves 'Clackapalooza'

Clay Aiken sings at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.
Sarasota Tried & True photo by irishbookgal.

Clack-Filled Florida 3-fer

Sarasota Show Tagged 'Best Yet'

In the past, Florida has been somewhat of a minefield for Clay Aiken photographers and videographers, but the singer's Tried & True Florida 3-fer completed at Sarasota's Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Saturday night can be described as a "clackapalooza."

Fan reports about the show are that is was the "best yet." There are plenty of audio and video files making message board rounds, and the T&T directory at Clack Unlimited is filling up.

After the opening three concerts, Scarlett is wending her way home. During her layover in Tampa, she plans to upload Sarasota videos while she waits. Is there any wonder the Clay Nation deservedly puts "clack goddesses" on a pedestal? [See video below.]

Below are some excellent photos of Clay and back-up singer Quiana Parler by irishbookgal, 1-3; Invisible926, 4-6; and gerwhisp, 7. All are double-clickable.

Tried & True Set List - Sarasota

Overture
Theme from Love Story
There's a Kind of Hush
Banter
Misty
Can't Take My Eyes Off of You
Banter
Something About Us
Banter

Big Band Medley: The Way (Clay), Don't Stop Believin' (Clay), Vogue (Quiana), I Want It That Way (Clay and Quiana), The Right Stuff (Clay), The Glory of Love (Clay), Love the Way You Lie (Quiana), Baby One More Time (Clay and Quiana), Footloose (Quiana), Invisible (Clay)

Banter
Autotune Bit – F***(Forget) You

Suspicious Minds
Build Me Up Buttercup
Moon River
It’s Impossible
What Kind of Fool Am I?
Who's Sorry Now? - Rap, Spiritual, & Bollywood (Clay and Quiana)

Mack the Knife
It’s Only Make Believe
A Foggy Day in London Town (Quiana)
Crying (Clay and Quiana)

Banter
Build Me Up Buttercup

Banter
Unchained Melody

In My Life
Solitaire

Clay Aiken's version of 'F***** U' from Sarasota Concert.
View concert video by Scarlett full screen at YouTube.
'Forget U' **grin** uploaded in Tampa Airport.

Fans Share NJU Experiences

A highlight at any Clay Aiken concert is meeting Not.Just.Us (NJU) fans and reporting the episodes to Internet fans on message boards. Below are three from the T&T Florida 3-fer:

nsredclayrocks: In Miami, a NJU gent sitting next to me with his teenage daughter and wife exclaimed, "That was wonderful"! when the concert was over. Later he was talking to another gentleman who said he was going to download the album when he got home. That made me smile.

Corabeth: Invisible and I had pulled fourth row in the fan club pre-sale but she also ended up getting a single in the first row. Dc4clay offered me a second row next to her, so at the start of the show I went to the last row and spotted a couple who just looked like NJU and/or PBS newbies.

I asked if anyone had never seen Clay before and they raised their hand. I said, “Fourth row tickets for free; we upgraded and don’t need them." The woman next to them asked if I had two more but sadly I only had one fifth row seat right behind them.

Her husband encouraged her to go, but she chose to stay with him. I love doing that. I only wish I could have found them at the end to ask what they thought.

Thankful4Clay: There were a lot of NJU there at the Sarasota Concert. There was a lady behind me who kept going oooo and ahhhhh. She was having a great time. I also heard a lot of male laughter. It was a nice change to have men in the audience.

Houston Sets Valentine's Night Concert

The next T&T Concert will be at 7:30 p.m. Valentine's Night in Houston's Jones Hall for the Performing Arts. For more information, see David Goldberg's article: Clay Aiken's Valentine's Day Concert in Houston.

In addition to the tour and the special Valentine's concert, Goldberg wrote an excellent article about Clay, his fans, the responsibilities of fatherhood, etc. Click on the above link to read the entire piece.

The star is thankful for his fans that have supported him since the beginning, and to his new fans that are just discovering him. He believes that his Houston fans will be happy that they chose to see him on Valentine’s Day.

"It’s the Valentine’s Day show for everyone, for all couples, of all stripes and varieties," he says. “Everyone is welcome and encouraged to come and show their love of the person that they are with, regardless of who they are and who they are with. I hope to see everyone there."

Happy Valentine's Day Eve, Clay Nation!



Signature by Linda/ABM

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Clay Aiken Concert Dazzles with Fab Vocals, Loads of Fun

Clay Aiken opens Tried & True Tour with varied styles, song list.
Photo by gerwhisp is double clickable.

Clay Entertaining as Always

Tried & True Opener Sets Pace

Clay Aiken and Quiana Parler opened the 22-city Winter Tour in Miami's Adrienne Arsht Center with a show that is sure to please audiences up and down the Tried & True trail.

The vocals by Clay and his longtime friend/backup singer were fabulous, the band rocking, and the repartee with concert goers entertaining as ever. The phenomenal arranging by keyboardist Ben Cohn shines throughout the concert, running the gamut of musical styles from jazz, pop, and big band to Reggae, country, and a touch of scat.

Video clack is still in upload mode; but Deborah760's audio, available for download at Clack Unlimited, is amazing. Below is a tentative set list compiled from the audio file.

Will it be the same in Orlando tonight? Who knows, but it's bound to be another evening that's off the charts!

Tried & True Tour Set List - Miami

Overture
Theme from Love Story
There's a Kind of Hush

Banter

Can't Take My Eyes Off You
It's Impossible
Something About Us

Banter

Medley
The Way
Don't Stop Believin'
Vogue
I Want It That Way (Clay and Quiana)
The Right Stuff
The Glory of Love
Love the Way You Lie (Quiana)
Baby One More Time (Clay and Quiana)
Footloose (Quiana)
Invisible

Cry Me a River - Quiana

Banter
Suspicious Minds
It's Only Make Believe
Moon River
What Kind of Fool Am I
You Don't Have To Say You Love Me

Who's Sorry Now in 3 styles (Clay and Quiana)

Band Intro

Mack the Knife
A Foggy Day in London Town (Quiana)
Crying (Clay and Quiana)

Banter
Build Me Up Buttercup

Banter
Unchained Melody

Banter
In My Life
Solitaire

From the opening overture in near darkness, the concert segues
to Clay singing 'Theme from Love Story' at 1:24 (visible at 2:01).
View video by Scarlett full screen at YouTube.

Recaps Paint Opening Night Canvas

Message board recaps describe a concert not to be missed. Below are some of the accolades and tidbits that help tell the story of opening night:

Starting the concert with "Love Story," Clay seemed to be singing to each member of the audience.

Quiana singing "Cry Me a River" -- what a talent!

"Invisible" done jazzy! The "clutch" is still part of the song!

Jazzy keyboards from Ben Cohn -- genius!

Jazz "Invisible" = Genius!

Love the rim shot from Felix when Clay was bragging about taking time to work on his hair!

Yes, the hair was atrocious and he was so proud of it! Said it took 6 cans of hairspray and would be flaking off on his sweater all evening

Clay was happy, sexy, silly, romantic, sentimental. He had us alternating from laughing and hooting to swooning and sighing.

That opening number rocked the rafters, and his Solitaire closed it the same way. In between, he gave us all the shades and nuances he's perfected over the last eight years onstage. He was charming, funny, personal, familiar, powerful, gracious.

It is a beautiful evening. Intimate, yes! A beautiful voice, omg yes! It is nothing like any other show, and I loved it. His voice was subtle and nuanced and then it just soared! He needs to be heard in person.

A few hours before the opening concert, Clay blogged to his fans: "So off we go ... into uncharted waters, but with aplomb!" From all I've read and heard, the show was this and more!

The remaining 2/3 of the Florida 3-fer take place at the Hard Rock in Orlando at 8 pm tonight and in Sarasota's Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall at 8 pm Saturday. For the complete Tried and True Tour schedule see the 2/10 Carolina blog entry and to the sidebar calendar.

Have an awesome weekend, Clay Nation!


Signature by Linda/ABM

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Groundhog Predicts Mild Temps for Clay Aiken Tour

T&T SAMPLER - This PBS concert promo provides an excellent sampler of the romantic classics Clay Aiken will sing on the Tried & True Tour. View full screen at YouTube.

For Spring-Like Tried & True Tour

Fans Praise Phil's Prognostication

With much of the US in the throes of a massive winter storm, Punxsutawney Phil provided a weather prediction that pleases Clay Aiken fans preparing to hit the road for the singer's Tried & True Winter Tour.

For 125 years, this country has taken note of a certain groundhog's early morning activities in Punxsutawney, PA. If Phil sees his shadow on Feb. 2, then (some believe) the forecast is for six more weeks of winter weather. If he doesn't, then spring temperatures are just two weeks away.

Well, Punxsutawney Phil did not see his shadow. However, according to the National Climatic Data Center (NCDC), the weather-prognosticating rodent is correct only 40 percent of the time. To read more about the Groundhog Day tradition, see the National Geographic News.

Prognosticating Phil on Groundhog Day.

T&T Tour Begins in Sunny Florida

The much anticipated 22-city Tried & True Tour is just single digits away from its opening curtain in Miami, Fl, on Feb. 10. With the first three dates in the Sunshine State, the tour is sure to start in spring-like weather. And, if this is a good year for ole Phil, there's also hope for the remainder of the tour.

A special surprise is planned for the Valentine's Day Concert in Houston's Jones Hall. For the T&T tour schedule, see Krule Music's Front Stage article by George Lurker. Dates, locations, and times are printed in the Jan. 11 Carolina blog entry.

In addition to Tried & True tracks in which Clay gives classics a new feel, the singer plans to incorporate favorites from previous albums, as well as the entertaining banter tour audiences enjoy so much.

Borrowing from a reader comment below, concert goers are hoping for mild temps outside; but inside they are sure to be "sizzlin' hot"!

Below are expandable screen caps by Scarlett from the PBS concert special Clay Aiken: Tried & True ~ LIVE!

2011 Calendar Nets $965.62

In her blog, Together for Inclusion, Rosaratana this week posted a final statement for the annual Clay Aiken calendar fundraiser. Featured in the calendar are Timeless Tour concert photos by toni7babe.

During the calendar drive, 147 wall and desk models were sold and 30 were donated for charity auctions at the October Gala. Less printing expenses, a check for $965.62 was mailed to the Inclusion Project on Tuesday.

Got your bags packed? Here is a video of Clay performing my favorite, his signature version of "Unchained Melody," in an appearance on The View.

View 'Unchained Melody' performance full screen at YouTube.

If the videos buffer, that's because fans are apparently camped out at YouTube enjoying a winter storm "snow day."

Have an awesome week, Clay Nation!

Caro

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Clay Aiken T&T Tour To Spotlight Signature Song

Clay introduces signature 'Unchained Melody' version.
View 'Tried & True LIVE' PBS performance full screen at YouTube.

'Unchained Melody' on Tour

Aiken Programs Signature Song

For many fans, the highlight of Clay Aiken's February-March 2011 Tried & True Tour will be the nightly performance of "Unchained Melody, a song in the singer's repertoire for years but now with his own spectacular signature arrangement.

Clay's new interpretation of "Unchained Melody" was scored by his friend Ben Cohn, arranger, musical director, keyboardist, for the 2010 Tried & True album and PBS Special.

For many, UM became a favorite during Clay's American Idol 2 run in 2003. Most CA fans have external hard drives that chronicle the UM saga dating back to his teen aged years in Raleigh. Below is the singer's Top 3 AI performance of the song.

Clay singing 'Unchained Melody' during AI Top 3 Finals.

Fair warning -- once you link to YouTube for the above performances, be prepared to also view the Hollywood Week montage by Wowzers4Clay, which includes the a Capella/pitch pipe version; DWTS Season 11, UM montage by LovesClaysVoice; and ... and ... Have fun!!!

UM Boasts 500+ Versions

Unchained Melody, 1955 popular song with music by Alex North and lyrics by Hy Zaret, has become one of the most recorded songs of the 20th century, by some counts having spawned more than 500 versions in hundreds of different languages.

Theme music for the 1955 prison movie "Unchained," the song was recorded by various artists prior to the July 1965 version by the Righteous Brothers that became the jukebox standard.

Featured in the 1990 blockbuster movie Ghost, the song is slated for GHOST The Musical this year.

Photos by Jim R. Bounds from the Tried & True ~ LIVE Special
complete this graphic design by Fountaindawg.

Since the Ben Cohn chart debut at the March 2010 PBS Special taping, Clay's "Unchained Melody" has made an impression on many. Below are four examples from previous Carolina blog entries.

Moonhead: Clay's own version of "Unchained Melody." Wow, he owns this song!!! And he really changed up the last third of it. His own version indeed! What he did with this was quite spectacular. -- March 15, 2010 (just after the PBS taping).

The next two appeared in the June 9, 2010 Carolina blog: Clay Aiken CD Charts in Top 10.

adrienne1954: My husband, who is not a fan, went to work out in our home gym. He put on the TV, and it wasn't working. He called me downstairs and, with panic in his voice, asked me to fix the TV. I tried to figure out what the problem was and couldn't.

Instead, he decided to listen to a CD. While fiddling with the cable remote, I jokingly asked, "Do you want to listen to Clay's new album?" "OK." (Words I never thought I would hear in a million years!)

I can't tell you how fast I ran upstairs to grab the CD before he changed his mind. In the old Bose CD player, Clays T&T went right to "Unchained Melody." I waited for his reaction.

"I love this song. This is one of my favorite songs," he said. (Who knew?) "He really does have a great voice. Oh, and shut if off."

I reached to turn off the CD, not wanting to push my luck or Clay's voice.

"No," not the CD player -- the TV! I want to listen to the whole album."

amazed_in_nj: I let my second graders listen to TnT today while they were working. After "Can't Take My Eyes Off You," I had to replay it again for them ... and again and again. By the third time, they were all singing along.

They loved "Unchained Melody," would wait the THE NOTE, and then take their hands from low to high in the air as Clay went up on that note. Again, when it was finished, they said, "Play it again!" So, of course, I did.

CLAY IS BACK -Graphic by Fountaindawg, photos by Jim R. Bounds.

Couple Plans Valentine Concert

During Houston's PBS Special debut, several CA fans assisted with phone pledges. This incident was retold in the Sept. 9, 2010 entry, Clay Aiken Dazzles Houston PBS Audience:

jtgranny: One of the most amazing calls I received was from an older gentleman planning a special Valentine evening. When I asked him how much he wanted to pledge, he said "Well, I guess I'm going to have to pledge $300 so I can go see this Clay Aiken and take my wife."

After I took all of his information, I was informed by him and his wife, who had by this time picked up on the other line, that they had followed Clay when he was on American Idol and thought he was great.

They have been married for 54 years, and "Unchained Melody" is their song. When Clay sang it on the TV special, they both sat on the couch and cried because it was so beautiful. She also told me she thought that was the best version she has ever heard.

By this time I was trying not to get all weepy myself, so I just told them I hoped they had a wonderful evening, thanked them for their donation, and said I would pass along this information to Clay.

I wished them a Happy Valentine's Day. This call definitely made my night even more special!

Clay Aiken: 2011 Winter Tour Preview

Tried & True Classics To Tour

"Unchained Melody" is not the only song that will be heard during the February-March Tried & True Tour. Get ready to experience the incredible pipes singing "Mack the Knife," "It's Impossible," "Can't Take My Eyes Off You," "Suspicious Minds," and other classics

Sample tour selections from the Tried & True CD and Tried & True ~ LIVE DVD at Amazon. Below are the tour dates with links to the venue or ticket sales.

2011 Tried and True Tour

2.10.11 Miami, FL Arsht Center, 7:30 pm
2.11.11 Orlando, FL Hard Rock, 8 pm
2.12.11 Sarasota, FL Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 8 pm
2.14.11 Houston, TX Jones Hall, 7:30 pm
2.16.11 Atlanta, GA Cobb Energy Center, 8 pm
2.17.11 Knoxville, TN Bijou Theatre, 8 pm
2.18.11 Pittsburgh, PA Carnegie Music Hall, 8 pm
2.19.11 Cleveland, OH Playhouse Square, 7:30 pm
2.20.11 Waterbury, CT Palace Theater, 7:30 pm
2.22.11 Baltimore, MD Kraushaar Auditorium, 7:30 pm
2.23.11 Charlotte, NC Blumenthal Center, 7:30 pm
2.24.11 Greenville, SC The Peace Center, 7:30 pm
2.26.11 Westbury, NY NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 8 pm
2.27.11 Glenside, PA Keswick Theatre, 7:30 pm
3.01.11 Cincinnati, OH Taft Theatre, 7:30 pm
3.02.11 Fort Wayne, IN Embassy Theatre, 7:30 pm
3.04.11 Waukegan, IN Genesse Theatre, 8 pm
3.05.11 Minneapolis, MN State Theatre, 8 pm
3.07.11 Memphis, TN Minglewood Hall, 8 pm
3.08.11 Grand Prairie, TX Verizon Theatre At Grand Prairie, 7:30 pm
3.10.11 Mesa, AZ Mesa Arts Center, 8 pm
3.12.11 San Francisco, CA The Warfield, 8 pm

Decca, My Space Herald T&T Tour

Concerts through March 1 are mapped on the Decca Label Group site in Clay's Events column. The singer currently holds the Decca site record for most CD/DVD comments/reviews/page views. You can add to them in the Releases column. The same goes for comments at the linked You Tube videos.

If you haven't visited Clay's My Space page lately, you are in for a treat, as it is loaded with tour dates/links, T&T photos, music to stream, videos, an excellent bio, info about the National Inclusion Project, etc.

"Unchained Melody" is a great accompaniment for Pepsi Refresh voting. You can link to the National Inclusion Project's alliances and partners via the NIP Thank You Widget in the Carolina blog sidebar. The alliances can be accessed at the Vote For Kids link.

Have a wonderful week, Clay Nation!

Caro

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Clay Aiken Fans Dial Up A/C Radio

TRIED & TRUE PREVIEW: Singer Clay Aiken previewed the 2011 Winter Tour at a benefit concert in Chicago in October. The graphic design by AmazingCA with photo by PermaSwooned is double-clickable.

Kick-Off for Tried & True Tour

Fans Request UM on A/C Radio

With the 22-city Tried & True Tour slated to open in Miami, FL, on Feb. 10, Clay Aiken fans are lining up requests for "Unchained Melody," popular track on the T&T CD, at Adult Contemporary radio stations throughout the country.

Already a favorite from the singer's 2003 run on American Idol, "Unchained Melody" was arranged especially for Clay by Ben Cohen and has become his signature song on the Decca June 2010 Tried & True release.

Unchained Melody
Double Clickable

Fan club members report that two Internet stations -- EZ Does It Net Radio and Soft 'n Easy Net Radio -- have already been receptive. Wednesday the first played "Unchained Melody" upon MagicalMusic's request. The second played "On My Way Here."

UM, which fits the AC format like a glove, was performed by Clay during CD promotional appearances in June. Below is video from The View.

Clay Aiken Performs UM on 'The View.'
View video full screen at YouTube.

To find an AC station near you, search Radio Locator by city/state/zip, call letters, and/or format. The Triad's station, WMAG-FM, just now changing over from its holiday format, provides an easy link for streaming live from its website.

Unless WMAG reads the Carolina blog, the station is in for a sweet surprise this week. To the delight of the Winston-Greensboro Wrapping for Inclusion team, this radio station frequently programmed Clay's "O Holy Night" during their sessions.

As a special "thank you" from WFI wrappers georgiesmybaby, FearofH2O, and Scarlett, a tin of Christie's Cookies with the National Inclusion Project logo will be delivered to 99.5 WMAG Radio Thursday. The NIP charity was co-founded by Clay and Diane Bubel in July 2003.

Logical next step for Clay Aiken fans in the Triad is to start requesting the singer's signature version of "Unchained Melody."

Who knows - the cookie angle just might work in other parts of the country, too!

Pepsi Countdown: 3 More Days!

After a grueling four-month campaign, the National Inclusion Project is sitting atop its category and appears to be on the verge of claiming a Pepsi Refresh $50,000 grant!

Daily voting routines have not slowed one iota, as supporters seek to help the alliances and partners whose reciprocal votes have boosted the Inclusion Project to its Top 10 standing.

The second Holiday Vote Blast is slated Thursday as eight children's charities seek to produce 100,000 Pepsi votes for their causes. See Vote for Kids for links to the NIP and the group's nine alliances.

You can also vote three ways by linking to the two widgets in this blog's sidebar or at their home base: NIP Voting Links and More NIP Voting Links. Created by Scarlett, the widgets contain the Internet/mobile ballot links/addresses for the foundation's alliances and partners formed throughout the four-month campaign.

Fans Target Ella's Hope, CDLK5

Two charities NIP supporters are especially targeting these final few days have been partners with the NIP for four-month Pepsi campaign: Ella's Hope, an alliance dedicated to early intervention of autism hovering around the final moneyed rung, and the CDLK5 Foundation seeking a cure for a rare neurological disease.

Sharon G (12/30) for CDLK5: Arianna's family of 10 have voted all 3 ways for you. Please help us to the top 10. 1 computer + 10voters + 3 ways = 1 comment and 30 votes. Ari and I sat outside of Kohl's today for 4 hours passing out fliers for votes for the 10 groups we are voting for. Hope it helped!

Arianna is a young girl with no voice. A $50k grant for CDLK5 would provide the operation she needs. I am voting for both of these groups with each ID from now now until midnight Friday.

Calendar Deadline Set for Jan. 15

An order deadline of Jan. 15 has been set by Rosaratana, who annually produces a Clay Aiken calendar as a fundraiser for the Inclusion Project.

The 2011 wall and desk calendars, which feature photos by toni7babe from the summer's popular Timeless Tour, have been well-received by CA fans.

All proceeds after costs will be donated to the foundation in February. Cost of the calendars, which are printed on premium glossy card stock are $12 for the desk size (8.27" x 3.74") and $25 for the wall model (11" x 8.5").

To place an order, Paypal or email Rosa at rosash@comcast.net by Jan. 15. Checks are accepted, and she will email you her address. For additional information and photos, see the Nov. 2 Carolina entry: Clay Aiken Fans Go to Bat for Inclusion Project.

Christmas Day with Kai and Lia

The snow-covered sculptures lining my side street are actually sleeping dump trucks awaiting resumption of the utility work that has besieged our neighborhood for weeks. My three-year-old grandson Kai, who is very much into trucks, would appreciate the scene.

In his home, Kai has discovered that hardwood floors are very conducive for the emergency runs he and his new Christmas fire engine make. His sister Lia is content to imitate her mother's ways with a brand new doll.

The new toys stayed home when the family visited friends for Christmas Day. Clickables of their holiday activities are shown below. Grandmother's gift will arrive in the Spring when the family drives to Carolina for an extended visit.

Before leaving, Lia got in a little piano, voice, and "vamp" practice.
Her music-teaching grandmother is most impressed
with the hand-over-hand technique.

Kai and Lia enjoyed playing games before gathering
at the beautiful Christmas table prepared by their hostess.

Holidays can be so tiring, but grandson Kai has learned
to kick back and relax, above board and below,
with/without shoes and socks.

Count on postscript pictures of the fire engine and doll baby. Meanwhile, have an awesome transition from 2010 to 2011! Happy New Year, Clay Nation!


Signature by Linda/ABM

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Clay Aiken Talks Career, Family, Charities with WKNO

WKNO: A Conversation with Clay Aiken
View Pierre Kimsey's interview full screen at YouTube.

Fans Campaign for $50k NIP Grant

Memphis PBS Chat Covers Bases

Uploaded to YouTube Thursday, WKNO's interview with Clay Aiken covers all the bases -- performing, sudden fame, the National Inclusion Project, UNICEF, family, fans, connection with former teachers, the Tried & True PBS Special, Broadway -- and much more.

Here is a portion of the promo or overview of Clay's chat with Pierre Kimsey, WKNO producer:

WKNO Producer Pierre Kimsey talks with singer Clay Aiken. The North Carolina native was beginning a career as an educator working with special-needs children when he took an opportunity to audition for the TV show American Idol, then in its second season.

His life was transformed as a finalist, and he has emerged as one of the most successful singers to have been launched by the show.

Aiken has used his celebrity on behalf of the international charity UNICEF and has traveled to Somalia, Afghanistan, and other countries where children have been impacted by war.

Check PBS programming in your area, as some stations prepare to re-air Clay Aiken: Tried & True ~ LIVE! leading into the 2011 Winter Tour supporting the singer's latest release with Decca Records.

Graphics depicting scenes from the singer's PBS Special include Fountaindawg, 1, 2, 3, and AmazingCA, 4, 5, 6, with photos by Jim R. Bounds:

NIP Needs More Pepsi Voters

While coming home from camp, my son asked if I knew that everyone's brain was different. He explained that some kids at camp are different from other kids because they have certain disabilities.

When asked what he thought about that, he replied, "It's all good, Mom. We're all special and unique in our own way." - Profound statement from a 7-year-old participant in a Let's ALL Play Camp.

The National Inclusion Project is competing in the $50,000 category of November's Pepsi Refresh Challenge and needs the creativity of its supporters to recruit more daily voters. The foundation is currently #15 and needs to climb into to top 10 to win the grant.

Dedicated backers maintain a daily voting schedule that includes the National Inclusion Project, official alliances, and partnerships formed with other charities.

Help spread the word so the Inclusion Project can bring Let's ALL Play training to more programs across the nation and open doors for ALL children to participate in all that life has to offer!

Vote 3 ways daily to expand inclusive programs for all children.

NIP Voting Simple as 1, 2, 3

1. Go to the National Inclusion Project page on the Pepsi site.
2. Click the "Vote for This Idea" tab.
3. You will be prompted to sign-in. Log-in with your email address. (If you haven't already, you can register very easily.)
4. Click "Vote for This Idea" again. (This is very important!)
5. You will know you have voted when you see the "Votes Left Today" change from 10 to 9.
6. If you are a member of Facebook, log out and back in. Select the Facebook option in the pop-up window, and vote for the NIP again.
7. You can also text the numbers 102308 to Pepsi (73774).
8. Share your vote on Facebook, Twitter, blogs, message boards, asking others to do the same.
9. Download the full page PDF version of the new NIP flier shown in a clickable screen cap below. Print and share the flier with prospective voters -- at ball games, fall festivals, malls, the zoo, the gym, church, school/business meets. Ask recipients to text the same vote everyday in November.

Click to enlarge screen cap of new NIP flier.

Partners Vote, Pull for Each Other

Inclusion Project supporters are not only voting for the NIP but also alliances and partners formed with other charities in the Pepsi Refresh Challenge. A good example is Crown Pointe Academy's strategy this weekend:

Crown Pointe Academy is still voting for you. Over the weekend we are going to be recruiting for you, Hawthorne, Crone's, Colorado Solar, Monte Vista, and a few other favorites. Hope it helps you! - Sherri R.

Be sure to leave a comment on each organization's page that the NIP has voted for their charity. Here is an example:

The National Inclusion Project just voted for you. Thank you for your reciprocal support. Please leave a comment, as we re-evaluate daily. http://www.refresheverything.com/nationalinclusionproject ...Text 102308.

The foundation's current alliances and partners are listed on the NIP Voting Widget that Scarlett created and updates according to nightly reports.

To put these charities in your circle of support, locate their link and/or text number on the widget in the Carolina blog's sidebar or link to the handy tool's home page with the screen cap below.

Click to link to NIP Widget
Vote and add to websites.

Below are the Top 21 charities posting daily reciprocal votes for the National Inclusion Project. The groups refer to their placement on the NIP Voting Widget. This is where I'm using my extra votes -- three for the NIP and 27 for other charities. Hopefully, you -- and every eligible account in your family -- are, too!

Top 21 NIP Supporters

RETT Syndrome Clinic - Group A
She Shall Go Free - Group A
Hawthorne Elementary School - Group A
Weaver Bored of Education - Group C
RATCO - Group A
Spoede - Alliance
Karo Grillo Golf - Group A
INRS - Group A
Libby Tennis - Group A
Pandora's Project - Group A
Blue Shadows - Group A
Cure AHC - Alliance
Cystic Fibrosis - Group B
Granara-Skerry - Group B
Cedar Park HS Band - Group B
HUGS Adirondack - Group B
HVCPA Opportunity League - Group B
Girl Scouts Eastern SC - Group B
Earl Crowe SUV - Group B
Alleghany Wellness - Group B
The Bag Ladies - Group B

Have a wonderful weekend, Clay Nation!

Caro

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