We Have A Winner!

Well, folks - it's official!  Last night produced a winner of So You Think You Can Dance Season 8, and I couldn't have been happier about America's selection!

A huge CONGRATULATIONS to Season 8 Winner Melanie Moore - she was deemed the original "beast" of this season, and she showcased insane talent in pretty much every number she danced in.  She not only is a brilliant technician, but she also brings a high level of performance and character awareness to her dancing, and that is a difficult skill to master - especially when you're only nineteen years old.

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This post is a tribute to her greatness, so I figured it would only be right to bring some of the numbers of hers that I loved best to all of you.  Dance fans, enjoy!

Melanie & partner Marko - "I Got You" - hiphop routine by Tabitha & Napoleon


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Melanie & partner Sasha - "Girl Power" - lyrical jazz routine by Sonya Tayeh


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Melanie & partner Neil - "Total Eclipse of the Heart" - contemporary routine by Mandy Moore


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And what would my blog be if I didn't give a tip of my hat to choreographer (and SYTYCD Season Two Runner Up) Travis Wall for this absolutely breathtaking concept piece?

Melanie & partner Marko - "Turn To Stone" - contemporary (WEEK ONE!!!) routine by Travis Wall


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Congratulations again to Melanie Moore on the big win - but also to all of the other Season 8 contestants - this is not the end of the road for you.  All of you possess something so magical and so special and it's now your time to share your light with the world!

And as a closing note, I must express my deepest thanks to Executive Producer, Nigel Lythgoe, and his team of dance soldiers for continuing this amazing program for eight seasons now. As someone who was enrolled in dance classes for fifteen years of her life, I know exactly what dance can do - the joy it can bring, the focus it cultivates, the athleticism and exercise that come as part of the process - dance NEEDS to be a constant in the world today. Kids and adults alike need to be able to get up and DANCE and make the world a better place, and I am so happy to see dance get the credit and attention it deserves.

From showcasing the world's most talented choreographers, to having judges on the panel who actually know how to properly critique a dancer (and consequently prepare them for the real world - professional dance is nothing if not cutthroat), and also creating a national holiday centered around dance (National Dance Day = July 31st, y'all!),  So You Think You Can Dance is a trailblazer in the industry! The show has proven results - contestants on this program book jobs, and as a dancer - that is always the goal.

Hats off to all of you!

Until next time,

Fun For Friday!

Okay, so my cousin posted the link to this video today and I thought it was equal parts adorable and hilarious and I wanted to share it with all of you!  As you probably have been able to deduce by the obsession I have with my furbabies, I believe dogs make the world a better place.  There is no better feeling than coming home and having furry creatures bark, wag their tails, and spin in circles - just because you came home!

Meet Carrie the golden retriever from Chile! She is a sassy little thing - look at those hips go! I think that Dancing With The Stars or So You Think You Can Dance should totally have her and her person, Jose, on their shows as special guests! She is obviously a very smart, spirited, and talented girl!


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Happy Friday, everyone!!!

Until next time,

Today Is A Great Day

Well, Peeps!  Today is a great day.  Why, you ask?  Well, today is great for two reasons.  The first is that TODAY IS LITTLE SISTER CHICKEN WING'S TWENTY-FOURTH BIRTHDAY!  WOO HOO!!!!

Who doesn't love a good birthday now and then?  So, to celebrate via the blog, I thought I would create a picture montage of the most ridiculous variety in honor of my sister!  Here goes nothing, and a big THANK YOU to FaceInHole.com for being more than a little awesome.

One of our favorite childhood activities? Playing BARBIES!

We have danced in multiple recitals together!

Even though Little Sister CW usually goes for lean men,

and I usually go for men of the stronger variety,

neither of us can deny our love of the Beebs. Just sayin.

We love watching crap TV - Bring on the Wingashians!

We will be each others' maid of honor someday if we don't kill each other first!

And if we do kill each other, hopefully someone won't turn us into Chicken Nuggets!

I hope you enjoyed this ridiculous picture journey, Little Sister Chicken Wing!  I love you and hope you have the best twenty-fourth birthday ever!  I hope this year will be epic and that it will bring only good things your way!

The other reason that today is a good day is because my favorite show, SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE, is well underway!  Last night was the very first competitive performance show and holy bologna, if that episode was indicative of how this season is going to go - we have our work cut out for us!  Season Eight's bench is STACKED with talent - probably the most talent in one season that has ever been in the history of the show!  Don't believe me?  Check out this AHH-MAZING statue routine, choreographed by Travis Wall (of Season 2), set to a song by Ingrid Michaelson, and danced by Melanie Moore and Marko Germar:


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Like I said - AHH-MAZING! Love doesn't even begin to describe it! I can't wait to see how the season progresses and how the dancers develop even further! And that is why today is a great day!

Until next time,

I Am Addicted

Top o' the morning to you, Peeps!  I hope you are all having a blessed and wonderful Monday morning (I know...I did just use the words 'wonderful' and 'Monday' in the same sentence intentionally - I do hope you are each having a great day). 

Let's jump right in.  Today's topic is addiction.  Now, this is not a laughing matter, so I don't want people to think that I'm making light of a serious situation.  Having an addiction to anything is really not the best case scenario, but I guess some addictions are better than others.

Comanche and I were taking some time to unwind yesterday after another exceptionally busy week/weekend. To be honest, it was a perfect evening - the two of us (and three dogs, if we're being honest) on the couch, chillaxing with Chinese takeout and conversation. He made the joke that I am addicted to funny things (well, they are funny to him).  Here was the list:  television, the computer, my dogs, and couponing.  LOL!  It does sounds humorous when said in list form.

But, I think he has a strong case.  Let's work through these one by one, because I'm completely fine with just "owning it."

1.  Television.

Okay, I'm guilty.  Throw the book at me.  I love TV.  Being as I work for a TV station, I feel as though it's my vital responsibility to partake in television shows regularly (and by regularly, I mean every.single.night.of.the.week).  I mean, who isn't excited for these shows this week?

Yes, please! Who will win?!?!

As far as this show goes, and as far as this season goes,

I give it a 10!



The suspense is killing me! SO glad Haley went home!



I DIE!!!!!   MAY 26TH!!!!!!!!  YAY!!!!!!  FAVE SHOW!!!!!

Cannot wait for this season finale on Wednesday!

Okay, so clearly my man has a point when it comes to being addicted to TV.  I'm not ashamed to admit it, and quiz me on any of these shows later.  You'll be impressed, I promise!

2.  The computer.

I'll go ahead and jump on this grenade, as well.  I have to use the computer every day at work, and obviously, when I get home, the computer provides me with a wealth of information.  I check my facebook, I blog (which is clearly the most important thing you have to read, so you're welcome), I pay bills online, I check movie times, I double and triple-check recipes and cooking instructions, and a multitude of other things.  I think those are more than justified reasons to be addicted to your computer/the internet.

3.  My dogs.

Duh.  There is no argument here.  Ask any mother, and she'll tell you that when she looks into the big eyes of her children, she feels compelled to make them happy.  Okay, maybe all mothers except for those of teenagers (or extremely fussy babies).  But, if you had fur-children that looked like this, you would totally understand:

Oh my gosh, why are you the cutest dogs that have ever lived?!?!?!?!?

4.  Couponing.

Okay, again, he's got me.  This is probably my newest addiction, and it's actually one I've been wanting to write about for some time now.  I just haven't had the time to do the kind of post I really want to be able to do.  So, I am going to make you wait for it.  I will be completely transparent here - my newest addiction does take quite a bit of time.  Quite a bit of time is something that I don't have (or maybe I would have if I could shift some of my other addictions around).  But, I will say this - I wouldn't allow myself to become addicted to couponing if I didn't see the value in it.  So you'll have to keep checking back for more - it might interest you more than you currently think it will.  ;)

In closing, "Hi.  My name is Chicken Wing, and I am an addict."

Until next time,

Holy Hotness, Batman! I Am Officially Excited...

...that one of my favorite shows premieres tonight!!!!!

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I've written about this show...ummm, quite a few times...and I always get SOOOO excited when it comes on, and for those of you who watch it - I don't know about you but I'm curious to see how the shake-up in the format is going to play out!

I love the fact that SYTYCD comes on right after Dancing With the Stars and American Idol finish up their seasons, and it leaves me without a gap of reality television greatness!

For all you SYTYCDancers out there, I'll follow up with my thoughts on the premiere soon!

Until next time,
Miss Chicken Wing

Chicken Wing Musical Obsession Part Deux

Okay, I have a confession to make. In regards to the title of this post, I have to warn you that this may happen a lot, where I introduce musical acts that I am obsessed with.

The reason for that is because music flows in my heart. I love almost EVERY single kind of music you can throw at me, and I genuinely mean that. There are always different things that capture me, from the melody to the lyrics, to the overall presentation. Sometimes, I like a band just because of how they perform live. Sometimes, I like an artist based only on what they record (you know those artists/bands - you obsess over their CD's and then buy tickets to their show and it's horrible).

But this guy I'm going to obsess over with you seems to be the real deal. His name is Jason Mraz, and behind the handsome voice is a great performer. His demeanor seems very laid back, which is why the end result shocks your system - his songs sound simple, and are easy to hum along to, but when you really take a second and listen, the intricate musicality that he intertwines with his lyrics is really outstanding.

If you like what you're about to hear, and want more, look up the following titles: "I'm Yours," "Lucky," "You and I Both," or "The Remedy," all of which had major radio play and are simply fabulous!

The song I'm going to share with you, though, is entitled "If It Kills Me," and it just might be one of the most romantic songs ever! The first video has a picture of Jason, so you can see him (he's quite cute) and is a very clear rendition of this song. Then, if the song itself didn't make you feel anything at all (in which case, check your pulse because you're more than likely crazy), I've included the second video, which is a number from So You Think You Can Dance. Yes, I'm sure you're surprised about that one! Haha! But, it's my blog, so I can reference that show as many times as I want! :-) The choreography is by Travis Wall and the dancers are Jason and Jeanine, and they do a marvelous job.

So, enjoy it, Chicken-Wingers! I hope you fall in love with this artist. Trust me, they wouldn't make the blog if I didn't honestly believe they're worth it!

Here we go!





Until next time,
Swaying-and-humming Miss Chicken Wing

A True Honor...

As my faithful followers know, I am a HUGE supporter of the FOX hit show So You Think You Can Dance and last night was their 99th episode (I cannot wait for tonight's show - 100 episodes is a big deal).

Sure, they featured special guest judge Ellen Degeneres, who was hilarious, as usual. But something happened last night that left me honored to have been watching the show.

One of the world's best choreographers, Tyce DiOrio, created a piece that moved absolutely everyone in the audience. He used the power of dance to bring awareness to breast cancer, which has affected so many people. It's hard to imagine knowing someone who hasn't had to deal with cancer of some form, and breast cancer is one of the types that is seemingly unbiased in who it victimizes.

Tyce's number, featuring Top 8 contestants Melissa and Ade, was probably the most touching number I've ever seen, and I think that was evident by the fact that there was NOT a dry eye in the entire audience or judge's panel. I've never seen Head Judge Nigel Lythgoe cry before, but this number took him to a different place than normal, and it seemed that no one could remain composed while critiquing this work of dance excellence and genius. I'd like to share it with you, and if you know anyone who has faced or is facing this disease, please share it with them. I can't say that I've seen a more powerful exhibit of hope, and I want anyone who needs some hope to view this.

I pray that FOX will not take it down, as it raises awareness and creates positivity through adversity. I would never claim to own any rights to something this powerful and moving.

Please enjoy, and to those who are fighting - keep fighting. To those who have fought and won - congratulations. To those who have fought and lost - this piece will insure that everyone knows how hard you tried!

Melissa and Ade - "This Woman's Work" - song by Maxwell
Choreography by Tyce DiOrio

'SYTYCD' Top 8: Melissa & Ade's Contemporary Performance @ Y! TV

Keep fighting, and keep hoping.
Miss Inspired Chicken Wing

The Simple Truth: Further Evidence of Dancing Genius

With the genius of the choreographers to come up with the stories that they do, and the emotion that they do, it is then the responsibility of the dancers themselves to convey that vision to the audience. I support this show because I believe in the chance that these dancers can gather from being discovered on this program.

Please see the following videos. I do not own any rights to these clips, the dance numbers, the dancers, etc. All content belongs to FOX and Dick Clark Productions, Inc.

Lacey and Kameron - Contemporary - Probably my all-time favorite


Special Video - This viewer's 3 Fave Dances
1. Hip Hop - Pasha and Lacey (who is now a pro on Dancing with the Stars)
2. Hip Hop - Twitch and Katie
3. Hip Hop - Mark and Chelsea (who is now a pro on Dancing with the Stars)


Twitch and Kherington - Viennese Waltz - GORGEOUS!


Stay tuned for more updates throughout this season!
In-love-with-this-show Chicken Wing

Follow-Up Post on SYTYCD!

I wanted to include this video clip from a few seasons ago on So You Think You Can Dance but I was rushing through the last post (obviously, I had to watch tonight's episode!).

This is the audition for Anya Garnis and her partner Pasha, who eventually made the Top 20 and went through the competition for quite a few weeks. They are ballroom dance partners, and had one of the HOTTEST auditions to EVER grace the So You Think You Can Dance stage!

Nigel (the head judge) and Dan (another judge) were practically drooling, and you shall soon see why.

Please note: I do not own any rights to this segment. All rights belong to FOX and the SYTYCD franchise.

Okay, prepare yourselves...here they are: Anya and Pasha!



OH MY GOSH I LOVE THIS SHOW,
Chicken Wing

Time to Share Something I Love!

One of my favorite shows on television is So You Think You Can Dance on FOX. I seriously believe that it might just be the best thing that's ever happened to the world as far as reality TV goes.

Now, don't get me wrong...I love Dancing with the Stars, American Idol, and pretty much any DIY or design show on HGTV - all of which are reality shows. But, for some reason, I always get the MOST excited when SYTYCD comes on.

I think the reason why I get so much more obsessive about the show (as in a I-have-to-watch-it-or-I-might-just-die kind of thing) is because I used to be a dancer. No, not that kind of dancer - I trained in ballet, tap, jazz, modern, lyrical, clogging, and toe (on pointe) for 15 years of my life. That's a huge part of my upbringing and I know how hard it is to make it in the world of professional dance. This show is so ground-breaking (much like Idol), because the people who compete on the show actually get jobs because of people discovering their particular talent, using this show as their vehicle.

For example, several have made it to Broadway, there have been a few that have major roles in major motion pictures....not to mention the endless music video and backup dancer opportunities that come their way. I adore that about the show, because these people could have continued to struggle for years, but they got their shot because this show served as a platform.

The judges actually know what they are talking about, as every single one has been a professional dancer (in their own genres) and they are all choreographers. When they critique a number, it has validity and value. That is something that impresses me.

Not to mention, the Top 10 dancers get to go on tour all around the country. Yes, I have been to multiple tours with Familia de Chicken Wing and yes, I do own a t-shirt. HAHA! I told you, it's serious! But look at the following photos and you will see the extraordinary talent that gets discovered via this program. (And yes, I am that girl who memorizes the choreography as to capture the perfect shot!)

Off to watch my fave reality show,

Miss "Got-the-dance-fever" Chicken Wing