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The 2017 Fourth of July Playlist for Red, White & You

July 3, 2017 by Jenna and Nate Leave a Comment

The Fourth of July is the perfect combination of remembrance and celebration. The holiday allows plenty of time for both, and our soundtrack will definitely reflect that. As for any playlist, versatility is key.

Country music will speak on the main aspect of the holiday itself. Many of the popular country artists have made some of their best music when they lean towards war time ballads. It is a common issue for many Americans, so those sad but sweet songs hit home for many fans.

The soundtrack for that party atmosphere must be much different. Thankfully, that is mine and Jenna’s area of expertise.

We chose only the best to represent one of America’s most sacred holidays. With the focal point being American freedom, songs such “American Soldier” by Toby Keith and “American Love” by Jake Owen.

Of course there are jams that will get the party started as well. “American Pie” by Don McLean and “House Party” by Sam Hunt will have everyone singing along. When its time to eat, “Chicken Fried” by Zac Brown Band must be played. Finally, for a parting track as the party calms down, “Wagon Wheel” by Darius Rucker will be perfect.

All in all, the list is superb. The only thing left to do is invite all of your friends over and press play.

Without further ado…

Your 2017 Fourth of July Playlist:

Patriotic Level: Red, White & Blue Are My Favorite Colors

Steven Tyler, the lead singer of Aerosmith, begins the playlist with a cute-yet-cheesy “RED, WHITE & YOU.”

“Courtesy of The Red, White and Blue” is Toby Keith’s scream-singer on the list, and there’s a lot of them to choose from. In addition, patriotism wraps up in all of its stereotypical forms.

Lynyrd Skynyrd brings his patriotic side in “Red White & Blue” in addition to their classic “Sweet Home Alabama.”

Patriotic Level: ‘MURICA

A newer American classic: Kenny Chesney, a stadium country favorite, creates a twangy, catchy beat with “American Kids.” He discusses some classic upbringing tales from his youth.

Toby Keith takes a somber standpoint on “American Soldier,” diverting the playlist to recognize the efforts of the U.S. military fighting overseas.

This might be the classic of all the classics. Furthermore, Don McLean’s lengthy “American Pie” explores famous singers who died in the 1959 plane crash (Buddy Holly, The Big Bopper, and Ritchie Valens). Referencing “The Day the Music Died,” “American Pie” discusses many standard American events in reference to these singers’ musical influence.

The song’s title is self-explanatory, as Jake Owens’ country twang continues. Another classic to consider is “Anywhere With You.”

Again leaning away from country, Green Day’s hit “American Idiot” will get the punk rockers head-banging.

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers might be more known for “Free Fallin’,” but “American Girl” is a close favorite for the band’s lengthy resume. They are also currently on tour celebrating 40 years.

Lady Antebellum, or Lady A, is a more recent country fan favorite. The trio resurfaced this year to drop their new album Heart Break. Specifically, “American Honey” is a Lady A classic from their first album that embodies the band’s sound.

Toby Keith arises one last time for “American Ride.” Frankly, Keith might be the most ‘Murica country singer on the Fourth of July playlist.

Newbie country star Thomas Rhett, who also blends country and pop, finishes the list with “American Spirit.”

Then, tap back into hip-hop. A fun, light throwback to include is “American Boy” featuring Kanye West. Kanye is a hip-hop crowd favorite sure to please your friends who aren’t into country.

“America” by Simon & Garfunkel takes the playlist to an old-school level. For anyone who appreciates the classics, this one is for you.

Patriotic Level: I Have a Small American Flag in My House

Switching it up from country, Khalid’s rising R&B star keeps getting higher. His album American Teen refers to his high school experiences growing up in El Paso, and no song summarizes it better than the title track.

Keith Urban reflects on his American childhood in “John Cougar, John Deere, John 3:16” that hits on the musicians and religion that have influenced his life.

Eric Church references the famous Bruce Springsteen in this country track. Springsteen embodies the patriotic rocker, so a song about him is perfectly aligned with the patriotic spirit.

Oh, Kid Rock. Another feel-good, summer’s-starting track: “All Summer Long” will get everyone singing-a-long.

“Pink Houses” doesn’t scream “I LOVE AMERICA” as much as the others. However, this John Mellencamp classic references many historical, suburban standards that reflect the Land of Opportunity.

Air electric guitar players, come out. Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Sweet Home Alabama” opens with guitar riffs that get any patriotic party crowd cheering.

“She’s Country” is the bad-ass boot-stomper. Jason Aldean is known to rock out like Kenny Chesney, and “She’s Country” refers to one perfect girl who brings all the aspects of the Southern states together in one personality.

Patriotic Level: I Just Like the 4th of July for the Cookouts

Ah, summer nights. Zac Brown Band was built for summer concerts and vibes. “Chicken Fried” wraps up all the goodness of a summer into one song. Chicken fried, cold beer on a Friday night, a pair of jeans that fit just right…

This tune is a happy-go-lucky country classic after Darius Rucker took the country world by storm as one of the first established African American country stars. “Wagon Wheel” is a hug-your-family-and-friends tune perfect for all the warm and fuzzy feelings of the holiday’s gatherings.

Florida Georgia Line began the movement towards the intersection of pop, hip-hop, and yes, country music. However, they still remain true to their primary genre. “Dirt” refers to the ground they were raised on, and it’s the perfect introspective, nostalgic tune.

“Drinking Class” is the standard-American song. The singer, Lee Brice, prides in no excess or frills. Furthermore, the narrator-singer is a blue-collar worker who enjoys the weekends and belongs to the Drinking Class. Perfect for a weekend of celebration.

This is the party song of the playlist. “House Party” by Sam Hunt demonstrates Hunt’s huge success in the pop country realm. There are no speaking parts in this song like his other hits, but it’s a feel-good pre-game song for the weekend.

Zac Brown Band does it again with “Homegrown,” a track that shows appreciation to the group’s roots.

Drop the Mic: DJ Khaled is ‘Grateful’ & U2’s Star-Studded Tour Openers

June 23, 2017 by Jenna

Top 5 Concerts

U2 & The Lumineers: Gillette Stadium│Foxborough, MA│June 25th

U2 and The Lumineers continue this tour lineup segment at the Patriots’ Gillette Stadium. The Lumineers continue on their tour until June 29th, ending at MetLife Stadium. U2 then travels across the pond to the U.K.

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers & Chris Stapleton: Wrigley Field│Chicago, IL│June 29th

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers begin an epic segment of their tour at famous baseball stadiums with Chris Stapleton as the opener. Wrigley Field, the home of the 2016 World Series winners the Chicago Cubs, is a baseball venue only rivaled by the Boston Red Sox‘s Fenway Park in iconic status.

Garth Brooks & Trisha Yearwood: Cajundome│Lafayette, LA│June 24th

Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood plug forward on their tour with a stint of five shows in Lafayette, LA.

Rammstein: Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater│Wantagh, NY│June 25th

Rammstein has a select few shows left in 2017 including one at the gorgeous Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater. The venue partially hangs over the water, creating an ideal backdrop for a summer show.

Tool: Glen Helen Amphitheater│San Bernardino, CA│June 24th

Tool is finishing up their 2017 tour with California shows. San Bernardino is their last tour stop, and fans will just have to hope that that elusive next album is coming soon after.

What’s In Tune: New Music

♥ = you’ll play it on repeat
⊗ = stay away

DJ Khaled│Grateful│B

The Brand

DJ Khaled’s new album Grateful dropped today, following up Major Key in 2016 that was nominated for a Grammy. However, Grateful is not only just an album with some of the biggest stars in the game. No, no, no… it’s a headphones line (Grateful Beats) and a sneaker collection (‘Grateful 3’ Jordan Sneaker Collection). It’s a Snapchat empire and a hip-hop/life-coach mantra. For god’s sake, DJ Khaled turned his young son Asahd into a branch of the brand. His Grateful album cover shows the adorable baby sitting in a hot tub, playing off of the babies-pretending-to-adult trend that’s become popular in animated movies, commercials, and more. What’s funnier and cuter than a baby is a baby acting like someone older. DJ Khaled’s love for his son and fatherly reputation aside, he’s not dumb when it comes to maintaining his brand.

Im so inspired 🙏🏽 #GRATEFUL

— DJ KHALED (@djkhaled) June 22, 2017

The Character

And this isn’t even a diss at the DJ or a call-out of a marketing ploy. Instead, it’s confusion mixed with admiration. Though I don’t believe DJ Khaled is an artist (his actions speak moreso of that of a producer), his ability to bring together everyone, from the characters in the biggest hip-hop dogfights to his fan base, is immeasurable. His solo talent is weak, but his ability to accentuate others’ artistic abilities and weave them together allows DJ Khaled to pull the strings behind projects like Grateful.

Even at his recent disastrous performance at Electric Daisy Carnival, he calmly explained the technological issues in a radio Q&A and admitted that he would rather show his face to his fans than just leave the festival like he “should’ve” due to the circumstances. Basically, Khaled “threw his performance reputation on the sword” in order to “show up” for the fans. If there’s one thing DJ Khaled really, really wants you to know, it’s that he’s grateful for you.

You can call it a facade or an image, and it’s probably some of both. I always wonder what beloved artists such as Khaled, whose lifestyles keep them away from home, are really like as parental counterparts to their children’s mothers. The irony is, in regards to their careers, it doesn’t matter. DJ Khaled’s ability to grow his brand throughout his “everybody’s friend” image is exactly why he settles at the top of the game. Who else could somehow maintain peaceful relationships between both Birdman and Lil Wayne, and all the other label artists involved, during their splits from Cash Money?

In a time when the news vomits hate speech and controversy, DJ Khaled steps forward with his feel-good catchphrase book. “Anotha one,” “Stay away from ‘they,'” and “We da best” are just a few examples of his muddled-yet-positive mantras he displays in interviews and in his music.

The Singles

Grateful is no exception, as the beginning fifteen seconds of “I’m the One,” this summer’s biggest hit, includes two out of three of those phrases. Khaled yells, faded out in the background, “WE DA BEST MUSIC” before stepping in with “Anotha one.” And let’s not forget the subtle “D… J… KHALED.” Justin Bieber cleanly picks up the hook shortly after, and Khaled is forgotten about. Quavo, Chance the Rapper, and Lil Wayne all bite off verses. The bright, light background beat is perfect for a warm, summer-day drive. It has every ingredient to make a No. 1 hit.

“To the Max” was a little less successful, as Drake can invent better on his own. However, the cover of Asahd in a onesie with “23” (either for his dad’s album release date or Lebron’s jersey number, as the song was released during NBA Finals season) was so gosh-darn cute. “Wild Thoughts” followed with an inventive Santana sample featuring Rihanna and Bryson Tiller for a zesty single.

Furthermore, these three all follow “Shining” that dropped months earlier featuring the biggest music couple in the industry: Beyoncé and Jay-Z. Though “Shining” wasn’t ideal for either’s talent range, it’s tough to beat a pregnant Bey on a song with her husband post-Lemonade.

The Rest of the Album

The most surprising dislike off of Khaled’s new work is “I Love You So Much” with Chance The Rapper. Everything Chance touches turns into hip-hop’s new-age royalty, but Khaled’s rap tone and repetitive recording of “I love you so much” hindered the track more than helped. Chance’s magic touch partially revives it but not enough to lean this track into the favorites category. An overall disappointment.

However, Khaled finds success within his accentuation of Atlanta trap, as stars like Migos and Future glimmer on their plethora of tracks as well as other Southern-state icons such as Rick Ross. The album diverges in its second half to become a slightly trap album; something that heavily contrasts the beginning half with Alicia Keys, Drake, and Beyoncé as major artists. Therefore, there is a lack of cohesion, which is not a new flaw for the DJ on past albums.

However, this doesn’t delineate from his ability to find artists’ strengths and enhance them. No matter if it’s the Khaled charm or his production talent, he somehow manages to wrangle together brilliance in the studio. Grateful might be a solid ten tracks too long. But if it was condensed and made perfect sense, it wouldn’t really be a DJ Khaled album.

Grateful Tracklist and Feature Artists:

“Pop Hip-Hop Section”

1. “(Intro) I’m So Grateful” feat. Sizzla
2. “Shining” feat. Beyoncé, Jay Z
3. ⊗ “To the Max” feat. Drake
4. ♥ “Wild Thoughts” feat. Rihanna, Bryson Tiller
5. ♥ “I’m the One” feat. Justin Bieber, Quavo, Chance The Rapper, Lil Wayne
6. ♥ “On Everything” feat. Travis Scott, Rick Ross, Big Sean
7. ⊗ “It’s Secured” feat. Nas, Travis Scott
8. “Interlude (Hallelujah)” feat. Betty Wright
9. ♥ “Nobody” feat. Alicia Keys, Nicki Minaj
10. ⊗ “I Love You So Much” feat. Chance The Rapper
11. “Don’t Quit” feat. Calvin Harris, Travis Scott, Jeremih

“Trap Hip-Hop Section”

12. “I Can’t Even Lie” feat. Future, Nicki Minaj
13. “Down For Life” feat. PartyNextDoor, Future, Travis Scott, Rick Ross, Kodak Black
14. ♥ “Major Bag Alert” feat. Migos
15. “Good Man” feat. Pusha T, Jadakiss
16. ♥ “Billy Ocean” feat. Fat Joe, Raekwon
17. “Pull a Caper” feat. Kodak Black, Gucci Mane, Rick Ross
18. “That Range Rover Came With Steps” feat. Future, Yo Gotti
19. “Iced Out My Arms” feat. Future, 21 Savage, Migos, T.I.
20. ⊗ “Whatever” feat. Future, 2 Chainz, Young Thug, Rick Ross
21. “Interlude” feat. Belly
22. “Unchanging Love” feat. Mavado
23. ⊗ “Asahd Talk (Thank You Asahd)”

Imagine Dragons│Evolve│B

Lead singer Dan Reynolds reached a breaking point by the end of Imagine Dragons’ “Smoke + Mirrors Tour.” Extensive, intense, and draining, Reynolds decided to take a year off afterwards to focus on his demons. 2012 Night Visions‘ hit song “Demons” includes the chorus, “When you feel my heat / Look into my eyes / It’s where my demons hide.” Reynolds’ demons, in addition to his bandmates’, erupted with fame much like anyone who must rapidly become acquainted with celebrity status.

His depression, something he had been wrestling with since childhood, came to a front. Reynolds went to therapy, began yoga and meditation, and changed his diet. The holistic changes and therapy treatment created Evolve in its purest form. Furthermore, fans see many celebrities take time away from the spotlight to reset in order to maintain their sanity. Ed Sheeran, John Mayer, Taylor Swift, and many other celebrities find themselves in a place of discontent and turmoil that is healed through time away.

In the album’s artwork, a man is being lifted from a dark space to a space of light and color. This metaphorically represents Imagine Dragons’ progression since Smoke + Mirrors, an album of aggression and angst. Fans might see a transition similar to Drake’s from Views to More Life. Drake separated from an angrier version of himself to create his new music before taking a break. Evolve led with singles “Whatever It Takes” about fighting through demons, “Thunder” about celebrating success when everyone doubted, “Believer” about pushing through pain, and “Walking the Wire” about being in love. In essence, these first four singles demonstrate an album focused on challenge and growth.

Evolve Tracklist:

1. “I Don’t Know Why”
2. “Whatever It Takes”
3. “Believer”
4. “Walking the Wire”
5. “Rise Up”
6. “I’ll Make It Up To You”
7. “Yesterday”
8. “Mouth of the River”
9. “Thunder”
10. “Start Over”
11. “Dancing In the Dark”

What’s In Tune: Television Appearances

Pharrell Williams│The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon│June 26th

Pharrell Williams has been quieter in the past few years, focusing on soundtracks for movies instead of touring. His latest release is for Despicable Me 3 out in theaters June 30th. “There’s Something Special” also has a music video filled with the adorable minions that the world fell in love with. Williams also features on the new track “Feels” with DJ Khaled, Katy Perry, and Big Sean.

Sheryl Crow│The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon│June 27th

Sheryl Crow dropped her new album Be Myself in April is selectively touring throughout the summer.

James Blunt│Late Night with Seth Meyers│June 26th

James Blunt begins his international tour legs through Europe and Asia at the end of 2017 and beginning of 2018. His new album The Afterlove dropped in late March of 2017.

The Lumineers│Late Night with Seth Meyers│June 27th

The Lumineers are opening for U2 until the end of June. Then, they have a few Colorado shows in August after finishing up their “Cleopatra World Tour” earlier this year.

50 Cent│Live with Kelly and Ryan│June 26th

50 Cent is performing at Summertime In The LBC in August but does not have any other scheduled tour dates between now and then. His new album Street King Immortal is to be released, but the exact date is unknown.

James Blunt│Live with Kelly and Ryan│June 27th

Blunt continues his talk show route with Live with Kelly and Ryan.

Dua Lipa│Live with Kelly and Ryan│June 28th

Dua Lipa dropped her self-titled debut album this year and will follow the album release with a European tour.Then, early 2018 sees Dua Lipa opening for Bruno Mars’ New Zealand tour leg.

2017’s Four Best Collaborations: Florida Georgia Line & Backstreet Boys

June 1, 2017 by Jenna and Nate

2017’s Best Collaborations: On Tour and In the Studio

1. Florida Georgia Line & Backstreet Boys

Starting tomorrow, Florida Georgia Line is touring with the Backstreet Boys for select baseball stadium dates of FGL’s 2017 tour. This is not the first time that the country duo has blurred the lines of their genre. Their first hit “Cruise” grew to fame with its remixed version featuring hip-hop star Nelly. Florida Georgia Line released the single “God, Your Mama, and Me” featuring the Backstreet Boys on their 2016 album Dig Your Roots. The album also featured fellow country icon Tim McGraw and Ziggy Marley, Bob Marley’s brother whose strongsuit is the reggae genre. Therefore, FGL has proven that their tastes are scattered but that it doesn’t limit their success. For anyone who loves ’90s boy bands but has a taste for modern-day pop-country, these shows will be the best of both worlds. This is why they top TicketNetwork’s 2017’s Best Collaborations list so far.

2. John Mayer & Grateful Dead in Dead & Company

For years now, crooner John Mayer has taken over the role as the lead singer for Dead & Company. The name stems from the band’s makeup. The lineup consists of the remaining members of Grateful Dead with Mayer at the helm. They play a range of music from old Grateful Dead favorites to Mayer’s classics, as well. Since the singer took some time away from the spotlight to readjust his outlook and lifestyle, Mayer has returned balanced and focused. He is touring later in the summer for the continuation of “The Search for Everything Tour” in support of his 2017 album. Therefore, Mayer is keeping busy. The immense amount of talent onstage, old and new, in Dead & Company makes it a show worthwhile for any Deadheads.

3. More Life: Drake and Giggs

Drake resurfaced in early 2017 with his album More Life. It strayed from the angsty, scatterbrained mentality of Views and towards a passion for international sound. Caribbean influences, underground London rap, and other unique tones molded More Life into a body of work that sticks out on Drake’s resume. It was the perfect bounce-back from Views‘ less-than-stellar reviews. Now, Drake is taking a break for the rest of 2017 after wrapping up his “Boy Meets World Tour,” the international leg of his tour since Views.

Giggs became a name to watch for off of his new album, as he is the man behind the underground London rap tone on More Life. It added a tougher, gritty dimension in fluctuation with Drake’s smoother, emotional notes. Giggs’ accent on “It’s an OVO ting, eh?” became a notable line in the beginning of More Life. Rumors are that Giggs is now signed to OVO Sound, Drake’s record label. Therefore, 2017 birthed a great, surprising collaboration in hip-hop between Drake and Giggs, and I give Drake major credit from finding new talent instead of leaning on another big name just for the financial gain.

4. “SOUL2SOUL World Tour:” Tim McGraw & Faith Hill

Ah, the classic romantic collaboration. In addition to releasing the song “Speak to a Girl” together, Tim McGraw and Faith Hill are currently on their “SOUL2SOUL World Tour,” a tour name played off of their past successful co-headlining tours. The country power couple doesn’t seem to slow down or get less attractive with age. According to concert reviews, their romantic connection is palpable and make the performance that much more special. True love makes for a great tour run.

Five Performances That Earned Five-Star Rating From the Fans

May 16, 2017 by Nate

Five Star Performances are only reserved for the best of the best at TicketNetwork. We leave it up to you, the fans, to see which acts live up to expectations. Here is our first edition of Fan Favorites: Five Star Performances!

Dear Evan Hansen

This is by far one of the most well-reviewed shows by our fans. After 24 reviews, Dear Evan Hansen still has a spotless five-star rating. From the production to the execution, Broadway fans have fallen in love.

Look no further than the nine Tony Award nominations that Dear Evan Hansen has received in 2017. Starring Ben Platt, an actor most notably known for his role in the Pitch Perfect films, Dear Evan Hansen blends drama and music together perfectly.

The story arc revolves around senior year in high school, a tumultuous time for many. The main character, Evan Hansen, has severe anxiety disorders, and after a classmate’s suicide, Hansen gets wrapped up in an intricate story to establish friendships he did not have. Additionally, the story takes many twists and turns, and it is impossible to guess what happens next.

As a result, fans are rushing to purchase Dear Evan Hansen tickets. As usual, a Broadway musical garnering this much popularity has an extensive schedule. The Music Box Theatre on Broadway has the critically acclaimed show taking the stage through April 2018.

Ultimate Fighting Championship

There is nothing more intense in sports these days than the UFC. The physical and mental fortitude it takes to compete at the highest level is incredible to watch. Fans are always appreciate of the show these fighters put on, and it is why it has been awarded five stars.

From Conor McGregor’s trash talk as well as Ronda Rousey’s epic arm bars, the UFC has a lengthy history of being one of the most entertaining professional sports. Whether it is a Fight Night or a main event, there are always skilled fighters looking to prove they belong in the promotion or deserve a shot at the title.

Upcoming exciting events include UFC Fight Night on May 28th. This will feature Light Heavyweight legend Alexander Gustafsson in his home country of Sweden against a formidable opponent in Glover Teixeira. Then on June 3rd, UFC 212 is headlined by Jose Aldo, who will defend his Featherweight title against Max Holloway in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

James Taylor

The next artist on our list with a spotless review record in none other than James Taylor. Since the late 60s, James Taylor has used his voice and acoustic guitar to become one of the most popular artists of the 20th century. His fan-first approach even in 2017 is why he is so well-reviewed. Generations of fans can related to him due to his timeless classics.

“Carolina In My Mind” and “Fire And Rain” are two of his classics that are still played on the radio today. Additionally, “You’ve Got a Friend in Me,” earned Taylor his first Grammy. Every summer soundtrack is not complete with a little bit of James Taylor.

In 2017, tickets for the James Taylor summer tour are must have. Alongside Bonnie Raitt, the duo will hit a variety of major venues in the US. Whether be a classic ballpark or professional sports arena, James Taylor will most likely sell out at every stop.

Joe Bonamassa

When it comes to the blues, guitarist Joe Bonamassa is it the top of the food chain. People respond well to Bonamassa’s performances because he was born to play the blues. For almost 30 years, Bonamassa has been in the music industry. At 12, the young guitarist toured with blues legend B.B. King. For nearly 20 shows, Bonamassa was rubbing shoulders with rubbing shoulders with greatness. That was the launching pad that drove him to be the headliner of his own tour years later.

Since 2000, Bonamassa has produced 11 #1 albums on the Billboard Blues charts. Additionally, he has been nominated for multiple Grammy’s, but has yet to break through.

Bonamassa has also shared the stage with the like of Eric Clapton, Steve Winwood and Foreigner. His reputation as one of the most profound blues guitarist to ever play did not come lightly.

His extensive 2017 tour has blues fans excited. Find your Joe Bonamassa tickets today to see why he continuously receives a 5-star rating.

Chris Stapleton

Last but not least is the rising star, Chris Stapleton. With a Grammy under his belt already, Stapleton is one of the realest country music musicians in a while. As his second album is about to be released, Stapleton is ascending in to the upper echelon of country music. Rather than conform to popular “bro country” genre, Stapleton has stayed true to his roots. This is the main reason Stapleton resonates so well with the fans.

Traveller and From a Room: Volume 1 are the two albums that have allowed Stapleton’s career to get off to such a hot start. Traveller is cleaning up at all the award shows including a Grammy win for Best Country Album. It has also gone double platinum in the United States, no small feat. His only competition in the industry seems to be coming from Luke Bryan, although they attack the genre in two very different ways.

Whether it is “Parachute” or “Broken Halos,” Chris Stapleton’s genuine approach and ability to create complex music that is easy to listen to is becoming second to none. He is embarking on a solo tour in 2017 as well as opening for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. That alone should tell you that his stock is on the rise, and he’s ready to take over the country music industry.

Honorable Mention

Celine Dion

After 35 reviews, Celine Dion comes in with a 4.9 rating. This angelic voice deserved to be on the list because of her lengthy career and her affinity for residencies in Las Vegas.

John Mayer

One of the most polarizing artists in the industry today is John Mayer. However, his talent speaks for itself. His voice and acoustic guitar has allowed him to carve out a wildly successful solo career. He is such a polished musician that he earned a spot to tour with Dead & Company, the rebirth of Grateful Dead. Mayer is also currently rated at 4.9.

Hamilton

I guess you can’t please everyone. Out of 77 ratings, Hamilton has been able to maintain an impressive 4.9 rating. This epic show lit up the Broadway stage and had a record setting night at the Tony Awards in 2016. Lin Manuel-Miranda’s masterpiece will live on for decades as one of the best shows to ever hit The Great White Way.

Neat Feet: Freshest Kicks of the 2017 NBA Playoffs

April 22, 2017 by Nate

Saving your best for the NBA Playoffs has a number of different meanings. Players can rest up to regain their physical edge. Others resort to staying off social media, reading more and adhering to a more strict regimen to acquire mental sharpness.

However, my favorite edge is digging in to the closet and pulling out the freshest sneakers possible. Many NBA players have custom shoes made for the playoffs. The adage, “Look good, play good,” comes to mind when you see some of the kicks reserved for playoff basketball.

Whether it be pregame or in-game action, NBA players are always aware of what is on their feet. From the latest Kevin Durant sneaker, to classics from the 90s, there are numerous ways to make the Neat Feet list. Here are a few of the best and why they made the list:

Isaiah Thomas – Boston Celtics

These shoes made the list for many different reasons. Thomas goes with a great color scheme on this one. Green and gold is perfect for the Boston Celtics.

The shoe itself is the Kobe A.D., the edition of Kobe’s sneakers that were released. Isaiah has been channeling his inner-Kobe Bryant all season long. The 5′ 8″ guard has played exceptional basketball, and worked his way in to the MVP discussion.

If you look closely you see a few messages written on the sneakers as well. A day before the NBA Playoffs started, his sister died in a car crash. He paid his respects by writing a message to her on his sneakers. With a heavy heart, Isaiah played an incredible game. He shot 10-18 from the floor and finished the game with 33 points.

Well done Isaiah.

LeBron James – Cleveland Cavaliers

Out for blood? LeBron James is a different animal in the playoffs. He is known to shut out social media and other people’s opinions. His laser focus is directed towards his play, his teammates and their ultimate goal of winning a championship.

He leaves it all out on the floor, and is ready to dispatch any opponent in his way. Oh, and he makes sure he looks good while doing it. His Nike Zoom LeBron Soldier XI are mostly all crimson red with a gold Nike swoosh to match the Cleveland Cavaliers colors. The four strap look has James looking suited up to go to battle.

We might also need check for a jet engine on the bottom. How does James continue to soar through the air 14 years in to his NBA career?

Kyrie Irving – Cleveland Cavaliers

Next on the list is another Cleveland Cavalier. Kyrie Irving is the second player on the Cavs with his own signature shoe. The Nike Kyrie 3 is quickly becoming one of the most popular shoes to play in. It is lightweight which is crucial for guards, but with enough ankle support that forwards can feel comfortable in it as well.

The all-white look is very clean for Irving. The blue swoosh and the text “For The Fearless Only,” are the finishing touches that these playoff kicks needed. After hitting the game-winning shot in Game 7 of last year’s NBA Finals, Kyrie can put whatever he wants on his feet.

Mike Conley – Memphis Grizzlies

The main man in Memphis always keeps it real. From his style of play to his kicks, Conley is old school. While getting in to the zone for Game 1 in San Antonio, Conley displayed some of the freshest shoes in his collection, the Air Jordan I Retro ‘Royal Satin’.

Chris Paul – Los Angeles Clippers

Last but not least, Chris Paul comes in to the playoffs trying to channel his inner Michael Jordan as well. Paul is signed to Jordan, but has a signature shoe that is becoming more and more popular. Mostly red to match the Los Angeles Clippers, Paul’s shoes get bonus points for the platinum Jordan logo and the black laces.

Let’s hope his fresh kicks correlate to great play. For as successful as CP3’s career has been, it never translates in to playoff success. We’ll see if the Jordan CP3.X PO can do the trick.

If you want to see all of these fresh kicks in action live in person, view the complete NBA Playoff schedule right here at TicketNetwork.