Latest news with #BadRomance
Toronto Sun
2 days ago
- Politics
- Toronto Sun
LILLEY: Ontario MPPs set to vote themselves a massive pay hike
Queen's Park in Toronto on May 12, 2025. CYNTHIA MCLEOD/TORONTO SUN MPPs at Queen's Park are about to get a massive raise, their first in 16 years, but they still won't make as much as MPs in Ottawa or councillors in many major cities. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Don't have an account? Create Account The Ford government is moving ahead with plans to increase MPP salaries from $116,550 per year to $157,350, or 75% of what a federal Member of Parliament makes. Former premier Dalton McGuinty froze the wages of MPPs in 2009 as the world was dealing with the fallout of the global financial meltdown. The unemployment rate sat at 8.5% in December 2009, the provincial government had joined in the bailout of General Motors and Chrysler, and the overall economic outlook was bleak. A lot has changed since then — the pay freeze happened when McGuinty was still a popular premier, it was before Rob Ford became mayor of Toronto, bringing his brother, our current premier, into politics. Lady Gaga was topping Billboard's Canadian Hot 100 chart with Bad Romance while a new singer named Ke$ha was singing of TikTok, which was not yet an app. Avatar, the movie about blue people and another world from Canadian James Cameron, had people lined up at the box office, and back then you actually had to go to the box office to buy tickets. Your noon-hour look at what's happening in Toronto and beyond. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Please try again This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. All this to say, the decision to freeze wages was a long time ago, in a very different world. The move was a politically astute one at the time by McGuinty, and it was always meant to be temporary, but no politician has dared hike the wages since. Perhaps it's because politicians know that the idea of them getting a salary increase won't be popular. At $116,550, an MPP already earns more than the average worker in Ontario. Last year, according to Statistics Canada, the average full-time employee earned roughly $39 an hour per house and worked a bit over 38 hours per week meaning an annual income of about $78,000. MPPs already earn about 48% more than the average worker, according to StatsCan, so giving them a 35% raise will seem outrageous. StatsCan also shows, though, that average full-time worker is earning 40% more than they did in 2009. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. To be fair to those MPPs, their jobs never end. If you can find me an MPP or a political staffer who works 38.8 hours per week, I'll show you someone headed for the unemployment line. MPPs, like most politicians, surrender most of their lives to their jobs, regularly putting in 80 hours a week or more. We ask them, many of them anyway, to move to a different city, be away from their families and answer our every concern at all hours of the day. It's a demanding job and for a long time now, the reward for responding to the demands of the job have been diminishing. Even after the raise to $157,350, MPPs will still make less than councillors in Toronto who earn $170,558, Brampton at $161,152, and Mississauga at $159,684. My arguments for why this pay raise is a good idea will likely fall on deaf ears to many, especially those who think paying anything to a politician is still too much. We love to complain about the quality of the representatives we have, and we also like to complain about how much we pay them. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. 'Give me better wood and I will make you a better cabinet,' Sir John A. Macdonald famously said when he faced complaints about the quality of his cabinet ministers. Well, better wood costs money and we need to pay MPPs better to attract better talent. The changes in salary, if passed, would take effect retroactive to the February 2025 election. The government is also proposing to allow MPPs to join the Public Service Pension Plan, the same plan offered to civil servants. It's not the gold-plated plan but would offer members serving for several terms a modest pension at retirement. An MPP serving for six years could start collecting at age 55 but at a 20% discount of the rate offered at 65. Of all the proposals Doug Ford has brought forward, this one has the potential to cause him some real political headaches, but it remains the right thing to do. blilley@ Toronto & GTA Ontario Toronto & GTA Toronto & GTA Sunshine Girls
Time Magazine
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Magazine
The Top 10 Music Videos of All Time According to AI
This article is published by a partner of TIME. Music videos have long been a cornerstone of pop culture, combining visual artistry with compelling music to create unforgettable experiences. Since the launch of MTV in 1981, music videos have transformed how we consume music, offering a new dimension of storytelling and performance. Some videos stand out not just for their artistry but for their cultural impact–the way they push boundaries and set trends. The best music videos elevate the songs they represent, creating a lasting impression that resonates far beyond their original release. Whether it's through groundbreaking special effects, intricate choreography, or powerful narratives, these videos have shaped the music industry and inspired countless artists. They have become cultural milestones, defining eras and sparking conversations. This list explores the top 10 music videos of all time, using research assistance from ChatGPT. These selections celebrate innovation, cultural significance, and artistic vision. Each video is accompanied by a summary and key details. 1. Michael Jackson – "Thriller" Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' revolutionized music videos with its cinematic approach, blending music, dance, and a chilling horror story. Directed by John Landis, the 14-minute video features groundbreaking choreography, special effects, and an unforgettable storyline that redefined the medium. Release Year: 1983 Director: John Landis Key Moments: The iconic zombie dance sequence, Vincent Price's narration Cultural Impact: Credited with turning music videos into a legitimate art form Awards: Won three MTV Video Music Awards Legacy: Inducted into the National Film Registry 2. Beyoncé – "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" With its minimalist black-and-white aesthetic and impeccable choreography, Beyoncé's 'Single Ladies' became a cultural phenomenon. The video showcases her incredible dance skills and empowers viewers with its message of independence. Release Year: 2008 Director: Jake Nava Key Moments: The now-iconic hand gestures and dance moves Cultural Impact: Inspired countless parodies and imitations Awards: Won Video of the Year at the MTV Video Music Awards Legacy: Cemented Beyoncé's status as a global icon 3. Lady Gaga – "Bad Romance" Lady Gaga's 'Bad Romance' is a visual feast of avant-garde fashion, surreal imagery, and bold storytelling. The video pushed the boundaries of creativity, showcasing Gaga's artistry and eccentric style. Release Year: 2009 Director: Francis Lawrence Key Moments: The fiery ending scene and iconic white costume Cultural Impact: Redefined pop music videos with its bold aesthetics Awards: Won seven MTV Video Music Awards Legacy: One of the most-watched music videos of its time 4. A-ha – "Take On Me" This innovative video used rotoscoping to combine live-action and animation, creating a groundbreaking visual style. 'Take On Me' remains one of the most iconic videos of the 1980s, blending romance and artistry seamlessly. Release Year: 1985 Director: Steve Barron Key Moments: The transition between animated and live-action worlds Cultural Impact: Pioneered new visual techniques in music videos Awards: Won six MTV Video Music Awards Legacy: Frequently listed among the greatest music videos of all time 5. Queen – "Bohemian Rhapsody" One of the first conceptual music videos, 'Bohemian Rhapsody' set the standard for the genre with its operatic elements and surreal visuals. Its innovative approach helped establish the music video as a key promotional tool. 6. Madonna – "Like a Prayer" Madonna's 'Like a Prayer' tackled themes of religion and race, sparking both acclaim and controversy. Its provocative imagery and powerful narrative made it one of the most talked-about videos of the 1980s. Release Year: 1989 Director: Mary Lambert Key Moments: Madonna dancing in front of burning crosses Cultural Impact: Generated global debate and redefined artistic freedom Awards: Won the Viewer's Choice Award at the MTV Video Music Awards Legacy: A trailblazer for socially conscious music videos 7. OK Go – "Here It Goes Again" This video features a simple yet mesmerizing concept: a choreographed routine performed entirely on treadmills. Its low-budget creativity and charm captured the world's attention and made it an internet sensation. 8. Peter Gabriel – "Sledgehammer" Peter Gabriel's 'Sledgehammer' is a masterpiece of stop-motion animation and visual effects. The video's surreal imagery and playful tone made it a standout in the 1980s and a hallmark of creative experimentation. Release Year: 1986 Director: Stephen R. Johnson Key Moments: The claymation sequences and animated fruit Cultural Impact: Set a benchmark for visual creativity in music videos Awards: Won nine MTV Video Music Awards Legacy: Frequently cited as one of the greatest videos of all time 9. Childish Gambino – "This Is America" 'This Is America' is a powerful commentary on race, violence, and social issues in America. Its choreographed chaos and layered symbolism sparked widespread discussion and acclaim. 10. Björk – "All Is Full of Love" Björk's 'All Is Full of Love' is an ethereal and futuristic video featuring robotic lovers. Its minimalist aesthetic and emotional depth make it one of the most visually striking music videos ever made. Release Year: 1999 Director: Chris Cunningham Key Moments: The intimate interaction between two robots Cultural Impact: A blend of art and technology, ahead of its time Awards: Nominated for a Grammy and won multiple MTV Video Music Awards Legacy: Celebrated for its groundbreaking visuals Conclusion on Top 10 Music Videos The top 10 music videos of all time showcase the power of combining music and visual art. These videos have not only defined their respective eras but also pushed the boundaries of creativity and storytelling. Whether through technological innovation, powerful narratives, or iconic performances, these videos have left an indelible mark on the music industry. To experience the magic of these masterpieces, watch the YouTube links in this article and dive into the visual and auditory brilliance that has captivated audiences worldwide. Related Articles: About the Authors: Richard D. Harroch is a Senior Advisor to CEOs, management teams, and Boards of Directors. He is an expert on M&A, venture capital, startups, and business contracts. He was the Managing Director and Global Head of M&A at VantagePoint Capital Partners, a venture capital fund in the San Francisco area. His focus is on internet, digital media, AI and technology companies. He was the founder of several Internet companies. His articles have appeared online in Forbes, Fortune, MSN, Yahoo, Fox Business and Richard is the author of several books on startups and entrepreneurship as well as the co-author of Poker for Dummies and a Wall Street Journal-bestselling book on small business. He is the co-author of a 1,500-page book published by Bloomberg on mergers and acquisitions of privately held companies. He was also a corporate and M&A partner at the international law firm of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe. He has been involved in over 200 M&A transactions and 250 startup financings. He can be reached through LinkedIn. Dominique Harroch is the Chief of Staff at She has acted as a Chief of Staff or Operations Leader for multiple companies where she leveraged her extensive experience in operations management, strategic planning, and team leadership to drive organizational success. With a background that spans over two decades in operations leadership, event planning at her own start-up and marketing at various financial and retail companies. Dominique is known for her ability to optimize processes, manage complex projects and lead high-performing teams. She holds a BA in English and Psychology from U.C. Berkeley and an MBA from the University of San Francisco. She can be reached via LinkedIn.
GMA Network
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- GMA Network
Julie Anne San Jose, her sisters and Rayver Cruz attend Lady Gaga's 'Mayhem' concert in Singapore
Julie Anne San Jose, her sisters Joanna and Jan Christine, and boyfriend Rayver Cruz flew to Singapore to watch Lady Gaga's "Mayhem" concert! On Instagram, the Asia's Limitless Star shared a compilation of videos of Lady Gaga performing some of her hits like "Born This Way," "Bad Romance," "Poker Face" "Paparazzi," "Bloody Mary," "Abracadabra," "Die with a Smile," "Judas," "Shallow," and more while she sang along. "Mayhem Singapore! Screamed and cried at the top of my lungs seeing my fave live last night! My fangirl heart is so happy thank you [Lady Gaga]" Julie Anne wrote in the caption. In a separate post, Julie Anne shared photos of herself, her sisters, and Rayver posing inside and outside Singapore's National Stadium. "Core," she simply wrote. Lady Gaga is staging four shows in Singapore, the only Asia stop in her "Mayhem" tour. The last day of her concert is on Saturday, May 24. Meanwhile, Julie Anne recently celebrated her 31st birthday with her loved ones and fans, also called JAmantes. She currently stars in GMA Network's first Viu Original "Slay," alongside Gabbi Garcia, Ysabel Ortega, Mikee Quintos, and Derrick Monasterio. She and Rayver are also set to return as Clash Masters in "The Clash" Season 7 this June. —CDC, GMA Integrated News
NZ Herald
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- NZ Herald
‘Charlie bit my finger' star Charlie Davies-Carr, 19, shares life update with ZM hosts
'Wha– he's a man now!' co-host Vaughan Smith said. 'I'm actually told I look quite young, but all my friends tell me I look young, so I'll take being a man,' Charlie replied. The viral star had no idea it was the anniversary of the video's upload to the internet until ZM reached out to him. Charlie said he hadn't bitten any fingers 'in a long time' when co-host Hayley Sproull asked whether he celebrates the day with his brother. 'I've kind of grown out of that phase.' The show's hosts thought Charlie might've used his standing as a viral sensation to impress the people he meets, but he said it's something he keeps to himself. 'I don't think I've ever brought [it] up. I think it's always come out through my friends, so I don't think personally I've ever told anyone in my life, to be honest.' 'Humble. Humble hero,' Smith replied. Charlie said it's 'lucky' he doesn't look the same as his younger self, but his friends still bring up the video at random. 'It'll be a big thing for five minutes and then it goes,' Charlie said. 'In my day-to-day life, I'm just Charlie, really.' The 19-year-old spoke from his university's student accommodation and revealed he's now working to obtain a law degree. Sproull suggested Charlie could 'cash in' on the video if he went on to open a law firm after graduating. 'You could call it like, 'Bit My Finger Law', do you know what I mean?' Advertisement Advertise with NZME. Yet Charlie said opening his own practice wasn't currently on his mind. 'I've got to pass these exams first ... 'cause it's exam season here. So if I get past these and then the next two years, we'll see about that.' With Sproull enquiring about his older brother – 'how's his finger?' – Charlie said Harry's studying business and 'working hard, I think'. 'His finger should be fine. I haven't checked on it in a while, but it should be fine.' The ZM hosts said Charlie had grown into a 'responsible' and 'handsome young man' and praised him for keeping a tidy room. 'He's made his bed, and that's really made me quite happy,' Sproull said. The hosts wrapped up the interview by asking Charlie to keep in touch, with Sproull inviting him back once he'd graduated so they could 'jam around some ideas' for the law firm's name. 'Yep. I'll pencil you in at some point in three years' time,' Charlie said. 'Pencil me in. Look, he's already talking like a lawyer. He's already charging, isn't he?' Sproull replied. 'Charlie bit my finger' was uploaded to YouTube on May 23, 2007, and became the most-viewed video on YouTube in October 2009. The 55-second video remained so until Lady Gaga's Bad Romance took the top spot in April 2010. Charlie and Harry's father, Howard Davies-Carr, originally uploaded the video to YouTube so the boys' grandfather could watch in the United States. Howard used YouTube because the video file was too big to send by email, but he didn't expect it to blow up like it did – especially as he'd made it private. 'I was just about to remove [the video] before it exploded. But once it had [exploded] I had lost control of the clip anyway, so I left it,' Howard told Business Insider.
Forbes
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Lady Gaga's Grammy-Winning Single Dances To New Highs
More than 15 years ago, Lady Gaga released "Bad Romance" and redefined what was possible in pop music. The track was heralded not just as another hit or proof she wasn't a one-album wonder, but as a massive leap forward for her artistry. The tune received critical acclaim and was a global hit when it dropped in 2009, and in the years since, it has remained a fan favorite and. In some quantifiable ways, the cut is now bigger than ever. This week, "Bad Romance" appears on to four Billboard charts. Two of them are based entirely on U.S. consumption, while the others measure global performance. Excitingly, the Grammy-winning cut is back on the domestic tallies and reaches new peaks on the international rankings, so it's a busy frame for the title on each and every list where it can currently be found. "Bad Romance" rocks its way back onto two of Billboard's dance-focused rankings. The The Fame Monster single reappears at No. 14 on both the Dance/Electronic Streaming Songs and Dance/Electronic Digital Song Sales rosters. It has previously cracked the top 10 and even led the purchase-only tally, throughout the more than 200 weeks it has spent on these genre-specific lists. "Bad Romance" made its way back onto both U.S. and global charts recently, as the tune has been surging in popularity for weeks following Gaga's high-profile performance at Coachella and her history-making concert in Brazil, where she played to more than two million people. As a result, a number of her classics have been climbing on planet-spanning rankings, and some have become bigger successes – at least in terms of placement on several charts – than ever before. This time around, "Bad Romance" soars on both the Billboard Global 200 and Billboard Global Excl. U.S. The track improves by dozens of spaces on each list at the same time. On the former, it jumps from No. 175 to No. 81. On the latter, it rockets from No. 148 to No. 55. In both cases, these are new peak positions for the tune.
