One of the good things about living abroad getting to avoid the firsthand effects of some of the lackluster adolescent musical acts that are currently polluting the American media at high speeds (the likes of Justin Beiber, Miley Cyrus & Ke$ha among other pre-pubescents that don't quite understand the meaning of talent. If you need to put a $ sign in your name to be original, you're trying too hard).
Fortunately, when you're as dependent on the internet and social media as I am, you come across some pretty interesting videos, often before they even attain viral buzz status.
Perfect example, VanJess - two sisters with a burgeoning Twitter, Facebook and YouTube following for their cover songs. I came across one of their videos back in September and was immediately blown away by their talent. They've written some original songs as well but they are mostly known for their covers of Lady Gaga, Alicia Keys and Mariah Carey, among others, and have been featured on Perez Hilton. They can sing, they play the piano, they beatbox and they clearly know how to market themselves.... I say, out with the single stars and in with this sister duo.
I could even see them being a huge success in Paris as the French media love to pick up on this kind of homemade talent. Among their rapidly growing collection, I’ve picked a few of my personal favorites:
Cover of "Unthinkable (I'm Ready)" by Alicia Keys
Acapella cover of "Bad Romance" - Lady Gaga
(I almost enjoy their version more than the original…)
Acapella cover of "Airplanes" by B.O.B. ft/ Hayley Williams from Paramore
Acapella cover of "Obsessed" - Mariah Carey
What do you think? Do they have what it takes?
Photo courtesy of GossipOnThis.com