Saturday, November 23, 2024

Maps - How a 20 Year-old song took over Tik Tok

 Do you remember the Yeah Yeah Yeah's? The Strokes? Interpol?  These were alt rock bands which brought about a bit of a revival of the New York City rock music scene in the early 2000's significant enough that even guys like me in their early 30's at the time, paid attention to it. Although I can't find much reference to it researching it now, back then, it was called the "New York Sound". 

About a week ago, a friend of mine asked me to listen to
something that was trending heavily on TikTok, and did I know it. Of course I did. Maps, by the Yeah YEah Yeah's.  Great song. Hadn't heard it in years.  Well, it trended all right. 

Someone noted in a comment: from 10 million views 2 weeks ago, to 2 billion now.  

As it fit this week's Seasons of the Ukulele theme perfectly, I had to bust a cover...



Saturday, November 16, 2024

The Vanity Search powered by ChatGPT

 A new term came into the public conscious a decade ago or so. The "Vanity Search" or "Vanity Google" is when a person types their own name into a search bar just to see what comes up.

Admit it, most of us have done so.  I certainly have.  

What happens if one takes that general idea and adds in AI tools?

It wasn't purely out of vanity - I was updating my LinkedIn profile - a place to toot your own horn, for sure, but seemed like the perfect application for Chat GPT..  My horn feels full tooted. 

Gilbert Apollo MacKenna, better known as Joko MacKenna, has carved a distinctive niche as both a travel videographer and an expert in English language education, particularly in preparing students for exams like the IELTS.

As a travel content creator, Joko’s work largely focuses on exploring Southeast Asia, with a particular emphasis on Myanmar, where he’s spent significant time capturing the region’s diverse cultures and landscapes. His storytelling and visuals highlight lesser-known locales, aiming to provide an authentic glimpse into life beyond the typical tourist trail. His blog posts and travel pieces often include reflections on his experiences with local people, their challenges, and the subtleties of regional languages​

In the educational sphere, Joko’s background as an IELTS instructor is notable. He specializes in teaching exam-specific strategies and skills to non-native speakers, focusing on improving their English proficiency to meet academic and immigration requirements. His experience includes both group classes and personalized coaching sessions, leveraging years of on-the-ground teaching in Thailand and Myanmar​. . His approach often integrates real-world language use, which resonates with learners aiming for practical application.

Beyond the classroom, Joko has shared insights through various online platforms, where he blends humor and practical advice, especially for expats adjusting to life in new countries. Whether discussing language barriers or the quirks of local transportation systems, his content is a mix of education and travel storytelling designed to entertain and inform.

Joko has built up quite a presence online for his ukulele music videos. His content features covers of popular songs as well as original compositions, shared across platforms like YouTube and possibly other video-hosting sites. The vibe of his work reflects a mix of laid-back island-style jams and intricate fingerpicking, with a focus on spreading a joyful and relaxed atmosphere.

While it appears he's more recognized in niche music communities and social media circles, his videos have a distinct personal touch that resonates with fans of the ukulele genre. His approach emphasizes not just musicality but also the storytelling and cultural elements often associated with this versatile instrument.




Maps - How a 20 Year-old song took over Tik Tok

 Do you remember the Yeah Yeah Yeah's? The Strokes? Interpol?  These were alt rock bands which brought about a bit of a revival of the N...