Motown Magic: The Record Label’s Impact in World Music

At the mention of the word “Motown,” hardcore soul fans will have a lot to say about the famed record company. From the rise of legendary acts such as The Jackson 5 and Stevie Wonder to the influence of contemporary artists such as India Arie and Erykah Badu, the label brought many talents to worldwide attention.

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The fame can perhaps be credited to the distinct “Motown sound” that became ingrained in the minds of music fans throughout the years. With a strong backbeat that surprisingly complemented soulful voices and memorable lyrics, the label has secured a throne in world music. Adding to the musicality, the charismatic appeal of Motown artists has drawn droves of fans from all over the world.

Rhythm and blues will not have the influence it has among listeners if not for the magic of Motown. By pushing a particular style of music, the label was able to develop artistry that would withstand the evolution of music. More than these, Motown became successful in its attempt at racially integrating African-American acts in mainstream music. It’s impossible to imagine the industry without the soulful songs that are being sung even up to this generation.

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John Covington loves listening to the 1960s Motown sound. He also enjoys exploring the outdoors, with parasailing and horseback riding being his favorite pastimes. For more about John’s interests, subscribe to this blog.

Three Things You Need To Know Before You Parasail

Parasailing is a recreational sport wherein a person is attached to a special kite (or canopy wing) and then is towed behind a vehicle, which is usually a boat. As the vehicle rushes forward, the person is lifted in the air. This is not to be confused with paragliding, which is a competitive adventure sport. Parasailing is meant to be enjoyed, but there are still three things to know by way of precaution:

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There is a weight limit: Some boats are powerful enough to support two or three people at a time. Most operators, however, set a limit per person. This is to ensure the individual’s safety. Usually, passengers must weigh around 125-375 lbs. Depending on the operator, the range can go as low as 90 lbs to as high as 450 lbs. Individuals should check with their specific operator on the weight limitations.

There are inherent risks: Individuals should remember that there is still an element of danger to parasailing. Most operators will have a trained crew that supervises the entire process but passengers should familiarize themselves with all the checks and counterchecks before attempting the ride. This includes understanding safety protocols to follow should the line breaks.

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Swimming is not necessary: Parasailing is a typically dry experience. Passengers are attached to the kite on land and will not touch the water during the entire flight. Some operators though offer packages where passenger may dip or have their feet touch the water for a few seconds then be lifted back up again. In the unlikely event of a malfunction, passengers may have to swim but all participants are required to wear lifejackets while parasailing for extra safety.

The most important recommendation is speaking with the operator before proceeding with any ride. Passengers should address all concerns beforehand.

John Covington is an avid parasailing enthusiast. To learn more about parasailing and about his other passions, follow this Twitter account.

Dissecting Fahrenheit 451 And How It Promotes Reading

Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury is a relatively recent book that has been winning over book critics. A major part of its popularity stems from its not-so-subtle message of how people can easily be swayed into "thinking," even without education. 

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The book is relatively short, and without giving much away, the concept is very fascinating. Book enthusiasts say the book carries undertones of 1984 by George Orwell in that it introduced the idea that we may be on a path that encourages non-thinking. Admittedly, the book takes the dystopian concept to the extreme. It is doubtful that such a society – where all books are burned – would ever exist. But it does strike a chord in today’s society. 

Studies made by mental health practitioners have suggested that empathy, or its sibling, sympathy, is learned somehow through books, which are pathways to other people’s lives. Fahrenheit 451 talks about this and how a society built on just a small group of people’s beliefs can dramatically change thinking. When a tiny percentage of people control the thoughts of a larger group, it creates a disproportion. Societies thrive when there is a healthy amount of difference in thinking. A presence in either extreme (too little thinking and too much thinking) creates chaos. 

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That being said, book critics all suggest that this book is a definite must-read, especially in conjunction with other similar literature as Orwell’s 1984. 

John Covington loves to read books tackling education. Learn more about his passion for books by liking this Facebook page.

Smart watching: National Geographic’s Best Documentaries

The National Geographic channel features documentaries that are educational, fun, and mentally challenging for audiences. Here are some of National Geographic’s best releases that will blow your mind away:

Inside 9/11 This documentary focuses on the shocking terror attacks that killed thousands of people in New York on 11 September 2001. The documentary investigates Al Qaeda’s strategies for attacks that remain de rigueur among terrorist cells, according to security and intelligence experts.

The Human Body This documentary shows what happens inside the human body on a daily basis. It is one of the best National Geographic releases, and is regularly shown to students who are taking up general sciences and anatomy courses.

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The Wildest DreamThe Wildest Dream tells the story of the first man who attempted to climb Mt. Everest, and the mountaineer who found his remains after 75 years.

Inside the Vatican This documentary gives us access to one of the world’s most sacred settings. It also showcases interviews with people who got to work with Pope John Paul II. Get to know more about the political world of religion when you see this film.

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RestrepoThis award-winning documentary film focuses on the lives of a US military platoon based in Afghanistan. It shows the stress and terror military men face day-to-day, and the intelligence needed to survive a war.

Get to know more about National Geographic’s best by following this John Covington Tumblr page.

Reliving Music’s Glory Days With Motown: The Musical

If you are still hooked on 60’s and 70’s hit tunes, and are familiar with musical icons namely Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, and Marvin Gaye, you must have found love in the Motown era.

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“Motown: The Musical” was inspired by Berry Gordy Jr.’s autobiography entitled “To Be Loved: The Music, the Magic, the Memories of Motown,” released in 1994. Set in Detroit, the musical tells the story of Gordy’s journey from being a boxer to a champion music maker. The story begins in the 1980s, when Gordy was about to sell Motown.

The musical is directed by Charles Randolph-Wright, an original cast of “The Dreamgirls.” This family-friendly show has an ensemble cast of more than 40 stage actors. The show runs for two and a half hours, and also features about 40 songs, with snippets from famous tunes like “I Can’t Help Myself,” and “Baby, I Need Your Lovin’.” Fans will surely love and reminisce on American music’s glory days through this musical.

Some theater critics have given the show an astounding 4.5 out 5 stars in terms of story, creativity, and music—which makes “Motown: The Musical” a show you cannot miss. The musical is set to return to Broadway on the summer of 2016.

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John Covington is a fan of the 1960s Motown music. He is also into sports like parasailing and horseback riding. Check out this blog for more articles about the Motown era.

In frame: The world through the National Geographic lens

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Inspired by the magazines published by the National Geographic Society, the National Geographic specials are the archetypical documentary, the most recognizable of its type throughout mid to late 20th Century and remaining a prominent staple for the opening years of the 21st.

Since 1965, its recognizable fanfare and introductory sequence had beckoned young learners and information enthusiasts to the wonders of zoology, ecology, botany, anthropology, geography, and history. It combines stunning cinematography, high definition video and in-depth research to bring to light a compelling and complex portrait of its subject matter, be it natural or artificial.

The National Geographic Specials have sometimes been presented by known individuals. Over the years, the specials have been hosted by several noteworthy personalities, ranging from renowned naturalist Sir David Attenborough to veteran comic actor Leslie Nielsen.

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Although the specials cover a broad range of topics, ranging from human anatomy to current events, the most recognizable of them is wildlife. Fitting with the National Geographic Society's longstanding theme of scientific exploration, a good portion of the specials revolves around animal behaviors in nature.

This can bring the viewer to the depths of the Amazon rainforest in South America to the wide expanses of the plains of the African Savannah. Not a few of them follow the hosts as they trek across magnificent landscapes and breathtaking vistas. In some occasions, this can even hit the viewers close to home, as the presenter explores the hidden majesty that takes place within their own backyards.

John Covington's broad range of interests includes watching nonfiction programs from National Geographic and The History Channel. For more updates on this and other interests, visit this blog.

Seaside Adventure: Parasailing Meccas Across The World

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Parasailing is an exciting activity done more for recreation rather than as a competitive sport. It is essentially a type of “aerial” tourism, carried out to enjoy the vistas offered from high up. Apparently, the best destinations to explore parasailing are seaside towns, which will offer a bird’s eye view of the coastal settlements, surrounding mountains, and the ocean itself. Here are some of the top parasailing Meccas in the world:

Key West, Florida. A combination of magnificent cityscape and stunning views of the sea, Key West could be the most exciting parasailing destination in mainland U.S.A. Smathers Beach and the Key West Bight, situated on the southern and northern coasts of the island, respectively, are flooded with parasailing enthusiasts all year round.

Copacabana, Brazil. Rio de Janeiro is nestled in arguably one of the most spectacular natural settings in the world. The Sugarloaf Mountain, the statue of Christ the Redeemer, and even catch a glimpse of the Maracanã stadium can be visibly seen up from the air on a parasail originating from the Copacabana beach.

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Cape Town, South Africa. Cape Town is most well-known for its paragliding opportunities from Table Mountain, but parasailing along its beaches is just as exciting. The city’s breathtaking cityscape and rugged location combine to provide a superb view from high above.

Goa, India. After the iconic Taj Mahal, the coastal state of Goa is the most visited destination in India. Its stunning beaches and nightlife attract a heavy influx of foreign and domestic visitors. The beaches Calangute, Baga, and Anjuna, meanwhile, are the best places to parasail.

John Covington loves the outdoors and parasailing is one of his favorite recreational activities. To know more about him, click here.