This evening, a chat with someone (whom shall not be named, a la Harry Potter style) jolted my memories back to 2008.
I don't know what happened, but the conversation came to BB, and I suddenly remembered this particular track during the Global Summit (Feb 2008) from BB41. It's titled Purple Haze.
As I had not gone for the any of the rehearsals, it was my first time doing that track. And I was sure many of the hundreds of the trainers in the filming class was doing it for the first time too.
What I remembered were the goose pimples that came up as the track concluded, and I was very sure I wasn't the only one feeling that. Nobody in that filming class could have missed the vibes in the air.
I wonder if anyone else remembers...
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Call Me When You're Sober
There's just something about this track that captivates me. Despite it not being a crowd favourite, (and I know it will never be one), it remains one of my favourites ever. I fell in love with this track the first time I saw it, and I'm still in love with it.
For me, this track is just like an amazing combination. I love the band, I love the song, it's emotional and powerful, and I love the ESK, so having the ESK in a track I love is a bonus. How about the choreo? It just fits in perfectly and this track was produced in the releases of the early 30s, which in my opinion, were the most creative period in D&R's reign.
The sort of variation in the tracks were so unpredictable that I actually looked forward to what new moves were coming out and how the combos were going to fit into the track. Of late, they've returned to the tried and tested - a winning formula, no doubt, but I do miss the creativity and the unpredictability.
Even though I know that most participants probably won't like this track, sometimes I choose to include it in my playlist just for myself. A little selfish I know, but that's just one of the perks of being an instructor cos I get to decide on the playlist. I attend other instructors' classes quite often though but I haven't experienced any other instructor playing the song post launch, so I guess the only opportunity I get to do it is if I play the track in my own class.
It's quite a workout if one does the track correctly. It keeps you moving non-stop!
For me, this track is just like an amazing combination. I love the band, I love the song, it's emotional and powerful, and I love the ESK, so having the ESK in a track I love is a bonus. How about the choreo? It just fits in perfectly and this track was produced in the releases of the early 30s, which in my opinion, were the most creative period in D&R's reign.
The sort of variation in the tracks were so unpredictable that I actually looked forward to what new moves were coming out and how the combos were going to fit into the track. Of late, they've returned to the tried and tested - a winning formula, no doubt, but I do miss the creativity and the unpredictability.
Even though I know that most participants probably won't like this track, sometimes I choose to include it in my playlist just for myself. A little selfish I know, but that's just one of the perks of being an instructor cos I get to decide on the playlist. I attend other instructors' classes quite often though but I haven't experienced any other instructor playing the song post launch, so I guess the only opportunity I get to do it is if I play the track in my own class.
It's quite a workout if one does the track correctly. It keeps you moving non-stop!
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
New Songs On Playlist
In life, sometimes we must look ahead.
Beyonce's Halo has been my earworm (just learnt this new word a few days back) recently and it's been a major feature in my playlist. Can't seem to get the song out of my head still.
But it's time to make room for some new (or maybe old) songs in my playlist. Was just talking to Lynn a few days back and I was rather surprised to discover that she follows the brit bands, alternative rock, and indie bands quite well.
We threw out a few names and the likes of Blur, Oasis, Suede sprang to mind. I remember attending the concerts... jumping to the likes of Blur's Song 2, anyone remembers?
A search for my favourite track from Oasis - Don't Look Back In Anger - brought back several memories.
Well, for a start, I'll like to feature 2 songs which may be of interest to some. Anyone remembers Linkin Park? They do have a few brilliant hits, but recently I've been listening to 'Numb'.
My favourite part - "every step that I take is an another mistake to you..."
What's the best song to follow that? Maybe something light like Kelly Clarkson? Not really a big fan of her though I do like 'Because Of You' from BC28, I keep playing it for my cooldowns...
Maybe try this one - I Do Not Hook Up.
Every song deserves a Second Chance.
Beyonce's Halo has been my earworm (just learnt this new word a few days back) recently and it's been a major feature in my playlist. Can't seem to get the song out of my head still.
But it's time to make room for some new (or maybe old) songs in my playlist. Was just talking to Lynn a few days back and I was rather surprised to discover that she follows the brit bands, alternative rock, and indie bands quite well.
We threw out a few names and the likes of Blur, Oasis, Suede sprang to mind. I remember attending the concerts... jumping to the likes of Blur's Song 2, anyone remembers?
A search for my favourite track from Oasis - Don't Look Back In Anger - brought back several memories.
Well, for a start, I'll like to feature 2 songs which may be of interest to some. Anyone remembers Linkin Park? They do have a few brilliant hits, but recently I've been listening to 'Numb'.
My favourite part - "every step that I take is an another mistake to you..."
What's the best song to follow that? Maybe something light like Kelly Clarkson? Not really a big fan of her though I do like 'Because Of You' from BC28, I keep playing it for my cooldowns...
Maybe try this one - I Do Not Hook Up.
Every song deserves a Second Chance.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
A Day Like This
I really enjoyed today's public holiday. How I yearn for more days like this. The day was just spent on thoughts, thoughts and thoughts. While I do enjoy classes on a PH, more often than not, it takes away the entire day, and a few hours of recuperation right after.
The day very nearly turned out similar to the previous routine of public holidays. I was already in my car heading towards the expressway before I got an SMS. Without further ado, I aborted original mission and made a hasty return.
It was perhaps a blessing in disguise I wasn't conducting any class today, for I wouldn't have the luxury to make that split second decision. A quick coffee, before a ride to an unexpected lunch, and I actually took a cab home because I was 20mins away from home, with my car keys in my pocket but without my car. Bizarre, I know, but interesting experience. It would never have worked out a few years ago.
An intended nap did not materialise and I logged on, thinking of planning my Europe trip later this year (with a plan B elsewhere if plan A fails). Having been in this 'stuck in limbo' position for so long has left me accustomed to prepare plan B each time round. There have been invitations to Spain and certain countries in Asia, but I think chilly weather and rainy days would suffice over the Mediteranean sunshine. I place all my hopes for a successful plan A, but plan B wouldn't be too bad an alternative and perhaps more relevant to this little domain.
This fear and anticipation has crippled my thoughts over the past few days, but I've finally made full use of the day to settle my thoughts.
Halfway through my planning, the appearance of a friend led to an innocuous question and subsequently unravelled a series of events. I drove down to my friend's place, whisked him off to the automobile megamart to check out cars. It was an eventful afternoon, but as we wrapped things up, we headed for dinner.
During dinner, we suddenly thought of another friend and asked him out and he arrived pronto. Everything was so impromptu, and things flowed in a nice manner. I really like spontaneity.
Talking about being spontaneous, there's this wacky idea that me and some close friends came up with. We take one day leave, pack 3 days of clothing, turn up at the airport and see where the adventure leads us, no plans, no nothing. If all else fails, we check ourselves in at Sentosa for a beach getaway. Till now, it's been all NATO (No Action, Talk Only), so I'll be keen to see if this notion becomes a reality. It's been difficult trying to get everyone together on the same date though, given our busy schedules.
As I end this entry and my enjoyable public holiday, I leave with this track - one of my favourites from Bodybalance, which some of you may have done in the handful of classes I've done.
Nothing about the lyrics, I just feel the music of this track for the night.
The day very nearly turned out similar to the previous routine of public holidays. I was already in my car heading towards the expressway before I got an SMS. Without further ado, I aborted original mission and made a hasty return.
It was perhaps a blessing in disguise I wasn't conducting any class today, for I wouldn't have the luxury to make that split second decision. A quick coffee, before a ride to an unexpected lunch, and I actually took a cab home because I was 20mins away from home, with my car keys in my pocket but without my car. Bizarre, I know, but interesting experience. It would never have worked out a few years ago.
An intended nap did not materialise and I logged on, thinking of planning my Europe trip later this year (with a plan B elsewhere if plan A fails). Having been in this 'stuck in limbo' position for so long has left me accustomed to prepare plan B each time round. There have been invitations to Spain and certain countries in Asia, but I think chilly weather and rainy days would suffice over the Mediteranean sunshine. I place all my hopes for a successful plan A, but plan B wouldn't be too bad an alternative and perhaps more relevant to this little domain.
This fear and anticipation has crippled my thoughts over the past few days, but I've finally made full use of the day to settle my thoughts.
Halfway through my planning, the appearance of a friend led to an innocuous question and subsequently unravelled a series of events. I drove down to my friend's place, whisked him off to the automobile megamart to check out cars. It was an eventful afternoon, but as we wrapped things up, we headed for dinner.
During dinner, we suddenly thought of another friend and asked him out and he arrived pronto. Everything was so impromptu, and things flowed in a nice manner. I really like spontaneity.
Talking about being spontaneous, there's this wacky idea that me and some close friends came up with. We take one day leave, pack 3 days of clothing, turn up at the airport and see where the adventure leads us, no plans, no nothing. If all else fails, we check ourselves in at Sentosa for a beach getaway. Till now, it's been all NATO (No Action, Talk Only), so I'll be keen to see if this notion becomes a reality. It's been difficult trying to get everyone together on the same date though, given our busy schedules.
As I end this entry and my enjoyable public holiday, I leave with this track - one of my favourites from Bodybalance, which some of you may have done in the handful of classes I've done.
Nothing about the lyrics, I just feel the music of this track for the night.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
One From 40
Someone asked me, "What is your favourite track out of 40 BC releases?" Thought for a while... too many to choose, but my answer would be... BC34's Believe In Me.
I still remember the first time I listened to it. I fell in love with the track instantly. And the first time I did it? It was an absolute killer and would have killed me if I didn't pace myself. Didn't expect how a simple track (in terms of choreo) can be so tough.
I think what sets this apart from the others that I like, is the raw emotions that this track brings out every single time.
I still remember the first time I listened to it. I fell in love with the track instantly. And the first time I did it? It was an absolute killer and would have killed me if I didn't pace myself. Didn't expect how a simple track (in terms of choreo) can be so tough.
I think what sets this apart from the others that I like, is the raw emotions that this track brings out every single time.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Changes
Today was the confirmation of the inevitable. While I accept that changes are part and parcel of life, it is still difficult to accept reality sometimes.
Was originally slated to be the third to make the move, but for some bizarre twist, I'm gonna be the first guinea pig. Two more, or maybe just one will follow suit, but at a later date.
It's all very surreal. It's happening too soon, and while I have been given ample time to buffer the inevitable, it still smacked right on my face.
The afternoon was particularly disruptive as I didn't really know how I was feeling. As I peered out of the window, at the magnificent view just beside me, my colleague mentioned that what I would miss the most is this splendid sight right before me. I couldn't help but snap a few pictures. Another colleague came over and took a few photos of me at my seat.
Strangely, quite a few came to me to ask me how I would feel about the change. If I were a logical person, I would list down the pros and cons and then decide what works best. But ZJ doesn't operate this way. I go with my heart, my mood and my feelings.
The plus side is that I will be able to make it for 730pm classes any day of the week. Which makes me wonder if I should.
Was originally slated to be the third to make the move, but for some bizarre twist, I'm gonna be the first guinea pig. Two more, or maybe just one will follow suit, but at a later date.
It's all very surreal. It's happening too soon, and while I have been given ample time to buffer the inevitable, it still smacked right on my face.
The afternoon was particularly disruptive as I didn't really know how I was feeling. As I peered out of the window, at the magnificent view just beside me, my colleague mentioned that what I would miss the most is this splendid sight right before me. I couldn't help but snap a few pictures. Another colleague came over and took a few photos of me at my seat.
Strangely, quite a few came to me to ask me how I would feel about the change. If I were a logical person, I would list down the pros and cons and then decide what works best. But ZJ doesn't operate this way. I go with my heart, my mood and my feelings.
The plus side is that I will be able to make it for 730pm classes any day of the week. Which makes me wonder if I should.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Lights Out
There are some tracks that are just simply tougher than the rest.
I revisited BC3404 Lights Out for my Monday evening class and it nearly had me lights out after the track! But this track remains one of my favourites and I reckon, one of the most challenging tracks ever. It's definitely not easy to teach, but it does feel extremely satisfying each time after I do this track.
I went back to check out my excel spreadsheet, and if you take away the 10 classes during launch period (I was on 5 classes a week then), I've only done this track another 11 times prior to today, the last 2 dating 10 Jan and 25 Apr this year.
There were a few times I bailed out on this track right in the middle of the class if there were some newcomers and I thought that it would be too complex or too challenging for them. And there were also some occasions when I would have liked to have done this track, but I felt very tired and lethargic from work, and didn't feel confident enough to present the track in the manner that I would have liked to.
I think the conclusion to myself is that I should do it more often, to challenge not only myself, but everyone!
I revisited BC3404 Lights Out for my Monday evening class and it nearly had me lights out after the track! But this track remains one of my favourites and I reckon, one of the most challenging tracks ever. It's definitely not easy to teach, but it does feel extremely satisfying each time after I do this track.
I went back to check out my excel spreadsheet, and if you take away the 10 classes during launch period (I was on 5 classes a week then), I've only done this track another 11 times prior to today, the last 2 dating 10 Jan and 25 Apr this year.
There were a few times I bailed out on this track right in the middle of the class if there were some newcomers and I thought that it would be too complex or too challenging for them. And there were also some occasions when I would have liked to have done this track, but I felt very tired and lethargic from work, and didn't feel confident enough to present the track in the manner that I would have liked to.
I think the conclusion to myself is that I should do it more often, to challenge not only myself, but everyone!
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