February 4: Thumbs up/ Thumbs down

THUMBS UP:
Bruce Springsteen. The Boss killed during halftime of Super Bowl XLIII, showing everyone exactly what his live show is like: high energy, incredible musicianship, and a great time. The E Street Band has to be the best backing band of all time. Anyone who has an opportunity to see Bruce this year, do yourself a favor and go!

Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, T.I., and Kanye. This foursome will be teaming up to perform their collaboration "Swagga Like Us" at the Grammys. Even if you don't like rap, this is something special. If there was a Mount Rushmore of hip hop, these would be the four faces on it, so seeing them team up live will be a treat. Just please go easy on the AutoTune, Kayne!

THUMBS DOWN:
Kelly Clarkson. Recently I heard the first few notes of a song I didn't know, and I thought, this must be the new Kelly Clarkson song! Sure enough, it was. How could I make such a confident declaration? Because the song uses the exact same guitar intro as "Since U Been Gone!" Kelly, dear, I know you're itching to return to the top of the charts after your last album flopped, but you should know there's nothing worse than blatantly repeating yourself!

Langerado. The Miami music festival was canceled due to sluggish ticket sales. This could be the first of many such cancellations. Promoters had better take the weak economy into account when pricing their tickets this year. Coachella and Bonnaroo are offering layaway plans for the first time. It's a good idea, but it doesn't go far enough. They should cut ticket prices by 10-20%.