Actual music on music television? The nerve...

I have VH1 on the TV most mornings as I make breakfast and gather the day's necessities. I usually end up turning it off after seeing the latest Lady GaGa/Bruno Mars/Miley Cyrus/Colbie Caillat video for the hundredth time. However, VH1 has been throwing some interesting choices in the mix lately.

 Raphael Saadiq - "Stone Rollin'"

 

I love throw-back musical styles with a modern twist, and this video hits it hard on the nose. The bass line is killer, and the groove could have been pulled from a mid-60's Stax Records backing track. 

I am also impressed - and a bit perplexed - by the massive Marshall amp stack that Saadiq seems to be plugged into. If the amp had actually been hot, I don't see how anyone could have been in that tiny basement club with wall of sound it would put produce. I've seem stadium acts with less amplification.

The Civil Wars - Barton Hollow

 

It's refreshing to hear something with an acoustic roots/country vibe on VH1 right after seeing Lady GaGa channel Madonna on "Born This Way" for the fiftieth time. The Civil Wars are even climbing the weekly Top 20.

 

Lissie - When I'm Alone

I cannot remember the last time I actually discovered new music I liked through VH1, but that's exactly how I discovered Lissie. Lissie and her band remind me of a hippier Grace Potter & the Nocturnals, but on a smaller budget. 

 

Could music television be taking a step back to the good ole' days of actually showing music? Maybe if you are an early riser like me.