The new-year is just around the corner so you know what that means over at PopCulturez…A Year-In-Review! Here’s our 2013 recap of the top choice moments of 2013. Enjoy!
30 Rock Ends
28.
Television’s most beloved comedy sitcom aired its finale this year and left fans wondering what exactly would take ‘Rock’s’ place in the NBC line-up? You will be missed ‘30 Rock,’ and a big congratulations to Tina Fey for creating such a brilliantly funny show!
Harlem Shake
27.
American producer, ‘Baauer’ made the famous Harlem inspired dance “hot” again by putting his own spin to its legacy. Well…scratch that. He basically just stole the title and created a whole new “dance”….if you want to call it that. The 2013 Harlem Shake took Internet waves by storm as many people created their own version of the mad-cap dance. To this day, the dance still seems a bit odd to us and it’s a mystery why people treat it like a newly inspired phenomenon…but, to each their own. Check out this compilation of different countries giving you their versions of the Harlem shake.
Will you be Harlem shaking into the New Year?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pWMrehaqx3U
Pope Francis
25.
Jorge Mario Bergoglio went from Bishop of Rome to Pope Francis. Congratulations Pope Francis! This now makes him the 266th elected Pope of the Catholic Church. All the best!
‘Idol’ Catflight
24.
The catfight heard ‘round the music competition airwaves made it to number 24 on our countdown list. For a show that had been slowly declining in ratings, this catfight certainly added some spice to the played out ‘American Idol.’ Perhaps that’s what the producers over at ‘American Idol’ wanted? Anyway, you guessed it. We’re talking about Nicki Minaj vs. Mariah Carey. The two judges were not at all silent about their intense dislike for one another. Especially Nicki! According to Mariah, Nicki threatened her life and was very disrespectful to her. And according to Nicki, Mariah was stuck up and mean. This drawn out feud definitely seemed like a ‘Mean Girls’ movie part 3. Where’s the love, ladies?
Funny Ladies at the ‘Globes’
23.
Funny ladies, Tina Fey and Amy Poehler dominated the Golden Globes this year as quite possibly one of the most entertaining hosts that the award show has ever had. These ladies were so good at the Globes that it not only increased the Globes’ ratings, but they’ve been invited back to host in 2014 too. Congratulations ladies! We’re excited to see what this funny duo will come up with on the next Golden Globes.
Breaking Bad ends
22.
It was a sad, sad day when Walter White’s era faded to black across television screens nationwide. Breaking Bad is arguably one of the best television shows of all time and it was heart-wrenching to see it go. It created such cult-like fanatics that people were actually hosting Breaking Bad mourning sessions at their homes. Who knew that being bad could look so good? Breaking Bad you will truly be missed.
Government Shutdown
21.
This year our government had a shutdown and everyone was affected by it. The shutdown lasted for 16 days and cost the U.S. economy over $3 billion. During the shutdown, approximately 800,000 federal employees were indefinitely furloughed, and another 1.3 million were required to report to work without known payment dates. There are further rumors that the shutdown might even happen AGAIN in January…say it ain’t so!
The iphone 5s/5c
20.
Apple fans went crazy during the revelation of two new Apple iphones including the new iPhone 5c and the cheaper iPhone 5s. Apple revealed the many colors of the iPhone 5c including yellow, green, blue, pink, and white. The iphone 5s comes in slate, gray, and gold (a hot commodity!). Though both phones came out at the same time, there are key differences behind them. The 5s has a faster processor than the 5c, the 5s has a fingerprint scanner option to unlock your phone and the 5c does not, and the 5s has the option of recording slow motion videos! The 5s sounds like a winner doesn’t it?
Ray J hits it First
19.
This year Ray J showed us that he’s STILL not over Kim Kardashian when he released his single, “I hit it first.” The cover art for the single was a pixilated photo of Kim Kardashian in a swimsuit accompanied by the lyrics, “I had her head goin north, and her ass going south, but now baby chose to go West.” The music video also starred a CLEAR Kim Kardashian look alike. The resemblance was so authentic that there were some scenes where it looked like Kim made an actual cameo. Despite the VERY OBVIOUS hit at Kim Kardashian, Ray J still denies that the song was ever about her. Alright Ray J, whatever you say. But here’s a piece of advice…get over it and come out with a real single next time.
R.I.P. Cory Monteith
18.
Gleeks everywhere mourned the tragic death of ‘Glee’ star Cory Monteith. The young actor died at 31 of an apparent alcohol and heroin infused binge. He was found dead in his hotel room and sent shocks all over Hollywood. Among the people devastated by the news was his on camera and real life girlfriend Lea Michele who understandably took it really hard. Cory Monteith, you will be missed. May you rest in peace.
Paula Deen uses the N-word
17.
Paula Deen did not use her best judgment in 2013 when she admitted to using the N-word in the past and revealed her vision in having a restaurant where there would only be black severs. This created such backlash that the Food Network ended her contract and she lost countless endorsements. Deen’s video apology failed to help her, but at least she can enjoy the money she has made in the past. Better luck next time, Paula. Next time, keep your mouth shut.
Kardashians go Splitsville
16.
Love was not in the air for most of the Kardashians this year. Kris and Bruce Jenner announced their separation, and I guess the apple really does not fall far from the tree because, soon after, Khloe announced her divorce from Lamar Odom. In the case of Kris and Bruce…we all saw this coming. Kris has always been somewhat of a dictator in the Kardashian clan, and her relationship with Bruce always looked more like a mother scolding her child rather than two adults in love. Congrats Bruce…we’re glad you escaped! As for Khloe, she recently filed for divorce from Lamar Odom, who has allegedly been abusing drugs and cheated on her. Unlike Kris and Bruce, Khloe and Lamar seemed to really have potential, so it is sad to see them go their separate ways. Either way, we wish you the best Khloe and, as for Lamar, we hope you get the help that you need in the New Year.
Royals
15.
New Zealand artist, Lorde took over music charts this year with her song, ‘Royals.’ Her song gained so much popularity that she has been nominated for four Grammys, which include ‘Record of the Year,’ ‘Song of the Year,’ and ‘Best Pop Vocal Album.’ Kanye West also commented that he liked the singer’s song. Despite the 17-year-old singer’s controversy over the comments she has made regarding pop stars such a Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, Justin Bieber, and Miley Cyrus, she is certainly making a splash in the music scene. Let’s see what she comes up with in the next year!
Miguel drop-kicks a fan
14.
Miguel took performance art to a whole new level this year at the Billboard Music Awards. The R&B star got so caught up in his performance that he literally took what we can call a “leap of faith.” Mid-performance, Miguel jumped in the air and landed on top of a screaming fan’s head. What many may have thought was a scream of applause for the singer’s performance, was actually a scream of pain, after Miguel dropped on to her head. The victim’s name was Khyati and although she is ok, Miguel received countless backlash and Instagram meme’s making fun of his poorly judged action. Better luck next time Miguel!
Evelyn Lozada “fixes her life”
13.
Former ‘Basketball Wives’ star, Evelyn Lozada made headlines this year for being the victim of a domestic dispute with her former husband, Chad ‘Ochocinco’ Johnson. Johnson head-butted Lozada and soon after they divorced. Lozada took to television and went on OWN’s “Iyanla Fix My Life” for a very revealing interview on her troubled relationship. Though Lozada may have been crying then, she is certainly laughing straight to the bank these days now that she is recently engaged to Baseball star, Carl Crawford, who reportedly gave her a 1.8 million dollar rin,g and she is expecting his baby! She sure has a thing for those athletes huh? We hope that this relationship is your “Happily Ever After” Evelyn. Best of luck!
Lindsay Lohan gets it together
12.
Lindsay Lohan sat down with Oprah in an exclusive interview discussing her sobriety. The former troubled star seemed much more poised and clear-headed in the interview and, since then, she seems to be on the right track. Although her dysfunctional family still makes headlines, Lindsay continues on the road to recovery, and we have yet to hear of any relapses. We can honestly say we are proud of her and the strides she has made. Hopefully this is a permanent lifestyle change that will continue on for years to come. Way to go Lindsay!
Amanda Bynes’ Mental Illness
11.
While Lindsay was on the road to recovery, Amanda Bynes was making a downward spiral this year. After a series of bizarre incidents, which included locking herself in a dressing room for hours on end, dressing like a cross between Nicki Minaj and Ke$ha, going on countless twitter rants, and almost burning a house down, she was admitted to rehab for schizophrenia. She’s recently been released from rehab and seems to be doing ok. She has even stated that she will go back to school for fashion, quit acting, and stay at home as she continues to recover. Hopefully things will only look up for Bynes in 2014.
Robin Thicke ‘Blurs the Lines’
10.
There is not one radio station that did not play Robin Thicke’s infamous “Blurred Lines” single with Pharrell and T.I. The catchy tune kept us dancing all summer long, and created quite the controversy for its questionable lyrics and video concept, that some argued exploited women as sexual objects. Thicke’s video starred a bunch of naked models caressing the singer, which was actually his wife Paula Patton’s idea. Despite the racy video and its lyrics, ‘Blurred Lines’ easily became the summer song of 2013.
Justin Timberlake gives us the ‘20/20 Experience’
9.
After a long hiatus from the music scene, Justin Timberlake showed us what it means to make a comeback…not like he ever left. He released his third studio album, entitled “The 20/20 Experience,” and it shot to number one on the music charts almost instantaneously. The album featured several hits, including “Suit and Tie” featuring Jay-Z, and “Mirrors.” He also won the 2013 VMA Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award. His year didn’t stop there. He went on a very successful tour with Jay-Z and later blessed us with the “20/20 Experience 2 of 2,” where he released his most recent hit, “Take the Night.” Two hit albums in one year and a tour? Now that’s impressive!
Miley Cyrus Can’t Stop
8.
If you’re still not sure who Miley Cyrus is by this point, you’ve clearly been living under a rock. Miley Cyrus was quite possibly the most headlined star of 2013. Between her very public breakup with Liam Hemsworth, her twerking tirades, and her overly sexual persona, all eyes were on her this year. The performance that started it all was her infamous duet with Robin Thicke at the 2013 VMAs, where she groped and twerked on the married singer. Though many have been displeased with Cyrus’ raunchy exterior, one thing no one can deny is this girl’s ability to always be in the spotlight. We’re sure we will be seeing much more of Miley’s antics in the forthcoming year.
R.I.P. Paul Walker
7.
Earlier this month, we all received the tragic news that ‘Fast and Furious’ star Paul Walker died in a car crash. It has now been confirmed that he had been speeding. The loss was felt by many, as many celebrities took to Twitter to honor Paul Walker and his great spirit. May you rest in peace.
Kanye Kardashian
6.
New York Power 105.1’s Charlamagne Tha God’s coined name for Kanye West couldn’t be more perfect following his numerous antics in 2013. Since living with the Kardashians, the man has lost his mind. I mean, he lost his mind before that, but now it’s way more apparent. Between his countless fights with the Paparazzi, his interview rants, his comment that Kim should be on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, his awkward interview with Kris Jenner, his horrific ‘Bound 2’ video, his strange ‘Yeezus’ album, and his comments that he is Steve Jobs….let’s say we are all Kanye-ed out this year. This man clearly has some issues going on, and he feels the need to argue with just about everyone. We congratulate him and Kim on their engagement and hope that the marriage will soften him a bit, since having a child didn’t seem to do the trick….
Magna Carta
5.
Jay-Z released his 12th studio album this year in a new and inventive way. The rapper released it first for Samsung users to download and later released it to the general public. Even before there were physical copies of the album, it was number one. Jay-Z’s album was not only a great one musically, but it showed us just how smart of a businessman he is. By collaborating with Samsung, he was able to increase his profit sales on the album and get endorsement backing. A sheer touch of genius.
The Royal Baby makes its Debut!
4.
Prince William and Kate Middleton’s royal birth of Prince George Alexander was all anyone could talk about once the announcement was made that the baby was born. The Royal couple did not miss a beat as they graciously exited the hospital and stood for photo ops with their new baby boy. Prince William even opted to drive his family home instead of using a driver once the baby was born. Despite Middleton’s difficult pregnancy, her bundle of joy couldn’t be any more perfect. Congratulations to the Royal family!
Thank You Nelson Mandela
3.
This year we lost one of the world’s greatest revolutionaries, Nelson Mandela. Though he is undoubtedly missed, his life is not one that should be mourned. He lived an exceptionally great life and helped changed the world. So instead of writing a small blurb about his death, we will say this: Thank you Nelson Mandela for spreading light throughout the world and giving us hope. You are truly the definition of inspiration, and your legacy will always and forever be remembered.
Beyonce ‘Wins’ at the Superbowl
2.
In true Beyonce fashion, she left us with our mouths dropped after her breathtaking performance at the Superbowl this year. The 13-minute set felt like 2 seconds as fans were glued to the T.V. screens watching her every move. What made the performance that more special was the surprise reunion of Destiny’s Child on the stage. The girls looked flawless on stage and had audiences screaming at the top of their lungs. The performance was so hot that ironically all the lights went out right after her show. Now that gives the phrase she “shut it down” a whole new meaning. Beyonce’s Superbowl performance will undoubtedly go down in history as one of the greatest Superbowl performances of all time. You go girl!
Beyonce
1.
One of the last and greatest events to happen before the year’s end was ‘Beyonce.’ This year, Beyonce showed everyone what it means to be a superstar. Without any promotion or official single, Beyonce released her self-titled album on iTunes at midnight on December 13th and by December 14th, it was number one with no physical copies out in stores yet. Who does that???? Well, apparently Bey does. Not only did she release this surprise album, but she created a music video (more like mini movies) for each and every song on her album, and then some. Beyonce redefined what it means to make and sell music. This passion project undoubtedly raised the bar and set the standard on what it means to be an artist. Not only does she have a number one album (that happened within hours of its release), she still has a SOLD OUT extended tour, she looks flawless, and she has a beautiful family. Where does she find time to do it all? We will never know. You may not be a fan of Beyonce’s music (though we can’t see why), but you cannot deny her showmanship and her work ethic. This woman is the true definition of what it means to be a superstar. The world is her playground and we are BEYOND excited to see what she comes up with next in 2014. Ladies and gentleman, let’s give it up for King Bey. Bow Down B*tches.
Well folks, that about wraps up this year in a nutshell. We hope you enjoyed our countdown. Share some of your favorite moments with us. We hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable new year. Happy New Year!
-Anny Jules
Tweet
Follow @popculturez
The post 2013 Year-in-Review According to Anny! appeared first on popculturez.com.
Related posts:
12/14 Week-in-Review According to Anny!
And the Winner is… The Grammys 2013!
12/21 Week-In-Review According to Anny!