Looking for Good New Music? Check out Lorde and Jake Bugg - Teen Artists With a Talent and Vision

Music Wed - Most of the time I focus on what I consider more classic or more timeless music and don't spend a bunch of time on the disposable drivel that is churned out by the mainstream music industry. But I want to call out two contemporary artists who are fresh, relevant and talented. What is interesting about both of these artists is that they have gained popularity and success by defying the "formula" so-called hit makers have established to govern what ultimately makes it on the radio, finds space on restaurant playlists and earns award show accolades. So here's a shout out to Lorde and Jake Bugg. She is a poet with a wry wit and a low tolerance for fools, copycats and music industry sycophants; he is a skilled musician with a keen eye for topical issues. Ella (Lorde's real name and the name she uses in her life), earned my respect when she openly sang live at the Grammys over a harmonic backing track, just like Queen used to do when they performed Bohemian Rhapsody - there was no subterfuge or trickery, like Selena Gomez, Britney Spears, Ke$ha and so many other pop stars resort to. Her stark Grammys performance of Royals was eerie, a bit disturbing, and wonderful in its use of the silent parts (just as Miles Davis has always done so brilliantly). Both of these teen artists have an ability to communicate as song writers and as people. Check them out, and here are a few items to get you started -- For Lorde, I recommend "Tennis Court" (http://youtu.be/D8Ymd-OCucs) and "White Teeth Teens" (http://youtu.be/ZWVZBwrQhsY) to get a sense of her abilities beyond Royals. As for Mr Bugg, I suggest you check out "Broken" (http://youtu.be/3EL20VKlvbs) and "Two Fingers" (http://youtu.be/J9XwFecNXyU). I think you will dig them because they are something that is a little rare in pop music today - they are real. Enjoy!