Danielle Barbe

MIXTAPE / for the gym.

2012-02-02T07:32:00.000-08:00

I'm gradually trying to work my way back into a gym routine. (note that I said "gradually")

My workout lately consists of a lot of lifting, mostly food to mouth, so I thought I'd create and share my current running playlist. Nothing really gets me psyched for the gym, but these do help a little.

And I just love that Missy Elliott! If nothing else, these will get you moving in your chair.

At the Gym. by Danielle Barbe on Grooveshark

SPOTS AND STRIPES.

2012-02-01T09:19:00.000-08:00

This vintage fur coat and these gold boots were both lucky finds from a few years ago that add an instant touch of glamour to any outfit. They've both traveled across the U.S. with me, so the heels are scuffed up, and the coat has been rumpled up in many a suitcase. These gold boots have danced across bars in Ventura, and this coat has weathered the snow in Seattle... but my babies are still going strong.

[the little details: vintage fur coat, "borrowed" missoni dress, marc jacobs boots, "borrowed" louis vuitton,

vintage + f21 jewels]
... when I say "borrowed", that tends to mean that I took an item from my mother's closet without her knowledge. Just for clarification purposes.

GET IT TOGETHER.

2012-01-31T06:52:00.000-08:00

One of my New Year's resolutions was to be more organized. So far that has not happened. I will be honest with you. I am a mess.

(Some other resolution examples: Do 300 crunches a day, return all blog comments, and get dressed up every morning. As I sit here in my sweats, I can report that none of these resolutions have come to fruition either. Ya win some, ya lose some.)

I've been searching online for briefcases, planners, iPhone covers, laptop covers, and fun extras. Here's a sampling of the cute things I found:

Go Shopping : 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9
I'm in love with the phone case that looks like a Leica camera, the highlighter pencils, and the Cambridge Satchel bag. The black and white really makes a statement.

Go Shopping : 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8

I currently use Polaroid notecards just like these to write little notes to my fans when they order autographed CDs! The mustache erasers are just for kicks... and the Elizabeth and James eyeglasses make not having 20/20 vision not as bad. (Or you can wear them if your eyes are perfect. That's cool too.)

Go Shopping : 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10

More planners, iPhone covers, and some colorful pencils by Jonathan Adler.

I hope you found something, or five things, that will help keep you organized and stylish!

THE SUN / in my hair.

2012-01-30T07:02:00.000-08:00

Kicking off the week with a lot of tour planning - I'll be announcing some tour dates soon! For now, I just have to get all the little details in order. Which is much easier said than done.

Funny fact... While taking these pictures, a not-so-nice pitbull decided to show up. There was a lot of anxiety and running. I should learn, and stop trespassing on people's property.

[the little details: jeans by robins jean, no name leather jacket, uo tee, steve madden boots, vintage + all saints jewelry, marc jacobs purse]

BEHIND THE SCENES / sm@ck fashion magazine.

2012-01-28T08:17:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure of working with E. Banks Photography on a shoot for Sm@ck Fashion magazine. I'm their artist feature for the April issue! Here's a sneak peek at one of the photos from our shoot.

credit: E Banks Photography

[the little details: anthro hat, free people coat]

MIXTAPE : work it.

2012-01-27T07:55:00.000-08:00

I meant to post this mixtape earlier in the week, but due to getting my wisdom teeth out, I'm really catching up on work today. This is the playlist I've been using while I work. I hope it makes you feel productive too! Especially if you have to work this weekend as well! xx d

Work It. by Danielle Barbe on Grooveshark

GO OUTSIDE.

2012-01-25T11:00:00.000-08:00

I have to apologize, posting might be a bit sporadic this week. You see, I had my wisdom teeth out yesterday and didn't trust myself enough to post. After seeing the bizarre texts I sent to people (I kept asking everyone to bring me vodka), I realize that I definitely made the best decision. Just pretend this girl is me, and you'll have an accurate depiction of my day.

We snapped these photos quickly on Monday, when it was 60 degrees and all the snow from the past weekend was melting. Now I'm bored to tears already and longing to go outside.

[f21 blouse, alice + olivia jacket, j crew pants, alexander wang heels and ring, vintage scarf and jewelry]

ALL SAINTS + rodarte.

2012-01-23T14:24:00.000-08:00

Loving the beautiful Rodarte tapestry boots I got awhile ago, and the new All Saints jewelry I received for my birthday... Ryder approves too.

[rodarte boots, all saints jewelry, little dog not included!]

DISCO TRAIN.

2012-01-20T10:04:00.000-08:00

I travel with a group of guys, and therefore I end up shopping in a lot of guys stores. For whatever reason, guys lines always have the BEST pants. These Betabrands are no exception. With a little tailoring, a few feminine touches, and some skyscraper heels, mama's ready for the disco.

Featured on the BetaBrand website!

[zara tux jacket, betabrand pants, steve madden booties, all saints purse, vintage jewelry]

HOUSES OF THE HOLY.

2012-01-19T08:01:00.000-08:00

Having a minor 80's moment, complete with hot pink faux fur, leather pants, and pink glitter boots. For whatever reason, crosses ended up becoming a recurring theme in these photos. Over the past few years, I've amassed a fairly large collection of crosses, from antique stores, flea markets where I travel, and now various people have started giving them to me! I find them to be completely fascinating. Some of them have hidden compartments with holy water inside or a scripture, and the mexican cross below has many different symbols with different religious meanings. I never know what I'm going to find. I guess it's good to have an odd little collection here and there.

[the little details: vintage 80s fur coat, ann taylor sweater, bcbg leather pants, asos boots, vintage cross necklace + anthro necklace]

YOUTH KNOWS NO PAIN : lykke li

2012-01-18T10:33:00.000-08:00

Lykke Li is a true artist, who I have been following for a few years now. The first time I caught a video of hers on YouTube, I was totally mesmerized. Her image has changed a lot over the past couple of years, but whether in little denim shorts showing off her cute dance moves, or swathed in a black cape with her hair slicked back, watching her perform almost puts you in a trance.

I love this live, broken down version of her song "Youth Knows No Pain", and the official video for the first single off this album is below. Lykke Li's incredibly unique voice and image always stand out to me. It has been so fun to see her gain some well-deserved attention in the U.S.

[all images found through Lykke Li's Facebook or through Google search]

MANIC MONDAY // in plaid.

2012-01-16T16:18:00.000-08:00

Just a laid-back go-to outfit, for a hectic Monday that involved a lot of errand running. You know, typical start of the week.

What are your plans this week? Anything good?

[the little details: jcrew flannel, anthro sweater, topshop pants, asos booties, all saints jewelry, modcloth hat, gucci purse]

RIVERWIDE / no cell service.

2012-01-15T10:21:00.000-08:00

I disconnected myself from the world for a little while yesterday. With Facebook, Twitter, text messaging, emailing, and blogging, it's easy to get burnout sometimes. I slept in, eventually wandered out in the snow and got coffee, and later I leisurely cooked my favorite vegetarian chili recipe, and rested up for the majority of the day. At night, I slipped on my little black dress and had some cocktails, and a lot of laughs, with my closest girlfriends.

I think a simple day off was just what I needed. Time to sit back, appreciate things, and hit the reset button. Now I'm ready for another eventful week.

[the little details: asos bib top, vintage skirt, urban tights, rosegold booties, christopher ross belt]

FEEL GOOD / mixtape

2012-01-13T06:08:00.000-08:00

It's Friday. Play this and get down with your bad self.

Feel Good by Danielle Barbe on Grooveshark

INTERVIEW / i'm a maniac.

2012-01-12T11:03:00.000-08:00

I'm a huge fan of Maniac Magazine and am always picking up a copy when I'm out and about. They have great interviews with people such as Annalynne McCord, Kristin Cavallari, and, my personal favorite, Lykke Li. Along with that they're always spot-on with their fashion and music suggestions.

Needless to say, I am so excited to be included in such a FABULOUS production! You can read my interview HERE.

A COLOR STORY.

2012-01-11T10:54:00.000-08:00

Sometimes a pop of a vibrant color (or two) is needed to combat what now feels like the winter doldrums. Once the gifts are exchanged and unwrapped, the tree is taken down, and the lights are put away, the winter season tends to lose a little of its luster.

These gold boots always bring back some of the magic. I feel like Wonder Woman when I wear them, which can lead to interesting situations. A dash of hot pink always manages to perk me up in a pinch, as well. I guess we all have our recipe for insta-cheer, and maybe this is mine.

[the little details: j crew blazer + sweater, joe's jeans, gianni barbato boots, old ae scarf, all saints jewels,

michael kors watch, oliver peoples sunglasses]

HOLLYWOOD / in instagrams

2012-01-10T08:06:00.000-08:00

We were recently in Hollywood, for the Ernie Ball battle of the bands... which I won! You can read more about that in the official press release here.

I feel like I never have any of my good cameras on me when the fun occurs. Thank goodness for iPhones and instagrams.

[across, from left to right]

1. Eric & Mike on the plane. Eric is attempting to fix my Miu Miu flat using a pen. It was a shitshow.

2. Mike lost the "rock, paper, scissors" battle and had to sleep on the rollaway bed. The deadbolt was broken off of the door. He was our protector.

3 + 4. Eric and I decided to do a little late night shoe shopping. Normal band activities. Who doesn't like a hot pink tranny boot?

5. Spending a little time in a gorgeous studio, laying down some vocals.

6. My guitarist's dog, Roxanne, catching some rays during a band rehearsal.

7. Eating the world's largest pizza. Alone.

8. Letting the guys pick out my clothes for the night's show. Settled on the beat-up tee I had been wearing all week, leather pants, and 4 inch heels. That's what happens when men are involved in wardrobe choices.

9. Four bands being gifted beautiful new guitars in a hotel parking lot. Thanks, Ernie Ball!

10. The blue beauty I ended up adopting.

11. Getting ready for the battle of the bands at the Key Club in Hollywood.

12. Performing my set at The Key Club in LA - in front of Randy Jackson, of all people!

xx d

ICE CUBES

2012-01-09T06:12:00.000-08:00

As a music artist, I frequently get asked what inspires me. The answer varies from day-to-day... It can be anything from a beautiful fabric, to a snippet of conversation I hear in the local coffee shop. The one form of inspiration that never fails me, is a good book. Since I was a little girl, I've looked to books to activate my imagination. I have quite literally turned into a walking library, lending books to my friends, coworkers, bandmates, and family members. It's to the point where I end up paying the $50 overweight fee because my suitcase is filled with novels when I travel. (No I will not get a Kindle! I'm old school... And apparently crazy.)

I just started "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern, and it's the perfect book to curl up under the covers with and read on a cold winter day. Perhaps it even inspired this black and white ensemble seen below.

[the little details: nanette lepore coat, motel pants, urban scarf, vtg + assorted gems]

PACK YOUR BAGS / on-the-go playlist

2012-01-06T06:28:00.000-08:00

I feel like I'm always driving, flying, or just racing or get to one place or another. Good music is key. I hope the below playlist will accompany you on some travels of your own.

What are some songs you enjoy listening to while you travel?

On the Go by Danielle Barbe on Grooveshark

ALL I CAN SEE / is red.

2012-01-04T15:59:00.000-08:00

Well, yesterday was my birthday. I knew it wasn't going to top last year's. Three words : Girlfriends. Vegas. Chippendales. (You can imagine the rest)

However, I didn't anticipate being snowed in! But, when life gives you snow, throw on a fabulous fur coat & some Stevie Nicks boots, and go play in it... Or something like that.

I hope this is a wonderful start to a new chapter.

[the little details: e&j fur coat, haute hippie lace-up pants, all saints clutch, vintage boots]

2011 / in the rearview mirror.

2012-01-03T09:16:00.000-08:00

Over the past months, I've really grown to love having this blog. It's become the perfect place to tell stories, share my travel pictures, and store all my little inspirations. Hopefully, with the New Year here, I'll turn to using this blog even more. Actually, I'll just add that to my seemingly endless list of resolutions!

I have so many exciting things to share with you. But until then, here's a look back, with some of my favorite photos from 2011, a very memorable year for me -

Wishing you a very happy and healthy new year!

xo D

CURRENTLY LISTENING / CHRISTMAS PLAYLIST

2011-12-21T10:02:00.000-08:00

Some of my favorite festive tunes to get you in the Christmas spirit. Enjoy!

xo D

Danielle's Christmas Playlist by Danielle Barbe on Grooveshark

STARRY NIGHT

2011-12-12T06:26:00.000-08:00

Some beautiful imagery to start the week off right...

[julia saner in fendi by camille vivier for grey #5]

THE BLACK KEYS / LONELY BOY

2011-12-08T10:29:00.000-08:00

Just put a new video up for you guys! Mike & I doing a cover of The Black Keys song "Lonely Boy". Go check it out and comment/like.

FRONT ROW MONTHLY / FEATURE

2011-12-07T17:45:00.000-08:00

I was fortunate enough to get to work with the fabulous crew at the online magazine Front Row Monthly, and they have featured me in a beautiful spread in their December issue!

You can check out the snapshots of the magazine below, or click this link to read my interview, where I talk about my celebrity crushes, post-show activities, and what it's like traveling with a bunch of guys. The magazine is so well put together, I highly recommend reading it in its entirety.

Some behind-the-scenes snaps...

With editor-in-chief Gina Caruso Hussar

The huge mansion in Pittsburgh we shot at.

FRM friends - Cortny Booth, Nicole Myers, Randy Smith, Edwin Shaw

ANNOUNCEMENT: WINNER OF THE ERNIE BALL BATTLE OF THE BANDS CONTEST!

2011-12-05T06:25:00.000-08:00

So, by now, if you've seen my fan page on Facebook, you know that I won the Ernie Ball Battle of the Bands Vans Warped Tour Challenge.

Out of the initial 23,000 bands nationwide that entered (the largest amount ever!), I was selected the winner on Thursday night after our sets at The Key Club in LA. I'm so grateful. Really.

Along with a lot of great prizes, which I'll tell ya more about later, I will be recording some new music and playing on next year's Warped Tour! I hope to see some of you on the road!

I have so many photos from Hollywood to sort through and stories to tell. More stuff coming later this week.

[the little details: FP blazer and shorts, giuseppe boots, vintage jewelry, marc jacobs bag]

ERNIE BALL / show tomorrow

2011-11-30T10:15:00.000-08:00

I'll be playing a show in Hollywood tomorrow night for the nationwide Ernie Ball Battle of the Bands Finals. Check out the promo video below, and if you're in the LA area, please come out!

SOMEONE'S TREASURE.

2011-11-28T09:48:00.000-08:00

I freak a little when I see anyone using everyday materials to make something extraordinary. From Bill Miller's linoleum flooring-turned-artwork, to these gorgeous clothes by Novella Royale.

The paisley bells and fringe jacket are made from recycled material.

[clothes are available at shopplanetblue.com, collage is my own]

AUTUMN GODDESS

2011-11-24T08:36:00.000-08:00

Wishing you all a very happy Thanksgiving! I'll be surrounded by my wonderful family, friends, and delicious food. It doesn't get much better.

And after baking four pies and various other baked goods... I need a break.

[a painting my mom scored on Ebay for me - appropriately titled "The Autumn Goddess"]

[the little details: vintage dress, vintage coat, vintage jewelry, marc jacobs boots, asos sunglasses]

FLOORED by BILL MILLER

2011-11-22T06:00:00.001-08:00

A little background on an artist I'm loving:
Miller began working with reclaimed materials as a founding member of Pittsburgh's Industrial Arts Co-op (do you sense the connection here? Pittsburgh girl, ya'll). He made sculptures out of scrap material in abandoned industrial sites. The artwork below is done with discarded linoleum and vinyl flooring, his signature style.

At first glance it looks like a beautiful mosaic.
Check it out.

[billmillerart.com]

LIVE WEBCAST / in review

2011-11-22T06:00:00.000-08:00

In case you missed this...
People have been referring to us as "total nutters". I'm all for it.
Just wait until you see what else we have in store for you.

BLACK, WHITE, AND PINK ALL OVER.

2011-11-21T10:59:00.000-08:00

Things are cooling off here and I'm gearing up for Thanksgiving. I'll probably wear my yoga pants all day and just eat a ton of dessert. No guilt here. Then off to LA for rehearsals, recording, and a show at the Key Club.

I'm a master at trading off between moments of complete normalcy and days of complete chaos.

Strangely it keeps me balanced.

[the little details: missoni jacket & scarf, free people dress, hooker boots from who knows where, vintage & alexander mcqueen rings]

FACTORY GIRL / work week inspiration.

2011-11-21T06:00:00.000-08:00

An editorial I stumbled across & really loved. Hope these photos provide you with some beginning of the week inspiration too!

Now to get out my cabbie hats and leopard fur coats...

[vanessa paradis by karl lagerfeld via fashion gone rogue]

PLAYLIST : MIKE'S EDITION

2011-11-16T10:22:00.000-08:00

I decided to switch things up a bit for this week's playlist, so I asked my guitar guru and partner in crime, Mike Dugan (affectionately known as "Doogski") to come up with a list of some of his favorite listens.

You can stream it below, see some of the reasons he's currently playing these songs, and find some additional songs you should check out.

- D

Mike's Edition by Danielle Barbe on Grooveshark
1. Will You Smile Again For Me? - ...Trail of Dead
Great anthem song. Good way to start a day
2. The Rabbit, The Bat, and the Reindeer - Dr Dog
Love how it builds, especially the melody at the end.
3. Capital City - Wilco
The moment it starts you feel like you're pondering something important at the circus.
4. Rising Sun - The Living End *
Great cover. Great guitar work. Great band.
5. Montreal -40 c - Malajube
(video) As far as animated videos go, this is one of my favorites.
6. Kodachrome - Paul Simon
Why don't I listen to more Paul Simon?
7. Only In Dreams - Weezer
My favorite song of all time, what a delicate breakdown.
8. Sugar Buzz - KD Lang
One of the best voices...ever.
9. Booty City - Black Joe Lewis and the Honeybears
Get up and get DOWN!
10. There Goes The Fear - Doves *
Just a beautiful song, great video as well

* additional songs not in streaming playlist

SHOW @ KEY CLUB LA

2011-11-05T07:00:00.000-07:00

I have a show coming up on December 1st at Key Club in LA! Details are on the flyer below and you can RSVP for this event on my Facebook page.

Hope to see some of you there.

xo D

ANIMAL HOUSE

2011-11-04T07:00:00.000-07:00

I'm from a small town. It's absolutely absurd and I love it. It's the only place where I'll find a ton of huge animals like this, just lining the street. And it's certainly the only place where a man will stop me at the gas station and say, "Aren't you Danielle Barbe? We're all so proud of you! Aren't you a dancer, too? I saw you in that Sisqo 'Thong Song' video years ago..."

(No, I'm not a dancer. Nor was I in a Sisqo video. How old does this guy think I am??)

[free people sweater, j crew jeans, vivienne westwood pumps, anthro clutch, vintage jewels]

REVERBNATION FEATURE

2011-11-03T15:32:00.000-07:00

I'm currently a featured artist on ReverbNation!

FALL PLAYLIST

2011-11-02T09:39:00.000-07:00

[fall bucket list found on pinterest. cute idea!]

Because... Despite the Christmas decorations being up in stores already and the peppermint mochas being here at Starbucks, it's still fall! I always feel so freaking rushed...

LIVE WEBCAST / NOVEMBER 9

2011-11-01T09:33:00.000-07:00

I have another live webcast coming up, co-hosted by the handsome Mike Dugan, on November 9th.

That's next Wednesday already.

Live songs. Live chat. Just visit my Facebook page at 8pm EST and click on the "Dani Barbe Live" tab.

See you there.

[witchy photos by Gabrielle Revere]

CURRENTLY MAKING / cake pops.

2011-10-31T16:33:00.000-07:00

In honor of trick-or-treat, a little food post.

I love Bakerella's blog, and while I'm not quite the cake pop goddess she is (the woman's a creative genius, I tell you), I make these basic cake pops for girls nights all the time.

They're time consuming to make, but very good. And by "very good", I mean don't even leave the cake dough balls sitting in your fridge for too long. My father ate about eighteen of them. I'm not exaggerating.

Sometimes I get a little crazy and make Siamese naked baby cake pops. I don't know. I can't explain most of the things I do.

Look at how adorable these spooky cake pops are from her blog... So much sugary cuteness. You can head over there for recipes and more photos from her "pop stars".

[top two photos are my own, the rest are from Bakerella]

Happy Halloween!

xo D

CURRENTLY LISTENING // new music videos

2011-10-28T19:33:00.000-07:00

A few new-ish songs and music videos that I keep playing lately as I work.

(Oh, and this last one is my own. If you haven't seen it yet, FOR SHAME!!)

A SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT - WARPED TOUR 2012

2011-10-27T16:11:00.000-07:00

Big news announced on my Facebook page today.

Out of over 23,000 bands, I am so honored to have been selected as a finalist (one of only 4!) by Ernie Ball for next year's Warped Tour.

Regardless of winning, I'll still get to play a bunch of shows on the Warped Tour, a tour I've always loved and supported. Beyond cool.

It feels incredible to have such fine people acknowledge my hard work as a DIY indie artist, my record which I am so proud of, and my live show, which I always pour my heart into. I couldn't be happier or more grateful for the opportunity. I'll be flying out to LA with my boys for a show on December 1st at the Key Club, where the final winner will be determined!

[the little details: bb dakota jacket, beat-up & cut up levis, drugstore sunnies, rosegold booties]

QUOTE / SO BETTY.

2011-10-20T15:32:00.000-07:00

Betty & I share a favorite hobby... Vodka.

Makes me proud.

LOVELY RITA METER MAID

2011-10-19T08:22:00.000-07:00

[the little details: Kate Spade coat, Target scarf, Kate Spade purse, Chanel sunglasses, Zara boots]

This week has been very hectic, in a mostly good way, with several new projects in the works, exciting music news (that I can't yet share with you! I'm such a tease!), and a photo shoot tonight with fashion/culture mag Front Row Monthly in a very beautiful mansion. It's a fabulous magazine and I can't wait to work with them! I'm practicing my Zoolander "model faces" as I type.

How is your week going?

INTERIOR CRUSH: MATTHEW WILLIAMSON

2011-10-17T13:04:00.000-07:00

Some photos of Matthew Williamson's London home. All the colors and patterns seem very true to Williamson's personal aesthetic. I may need to try re-create this tapestry couch!

CURRENTLY WATCHING / PRACTICAL MAGIC

2011-10-14T11:03:00.000-07:00

If you're in the mood for a good fall/Halloween movie, this is one of my favorites. It's based on the novel by Alice Hoffman, whose books I've always enjoyed.

I loved witches when I was little, and always watched this along with Hocus Pocus. I still watch each of these films in October every year and they don't disappoint... I dream of having a big Victorian house like the Owen sisters had.

Grab a pumpkin spice latte and watch this one night. Or better yet, a margarita, like in the movie.

REMEMBER ME.

2011-10-11T07:26:00.000-07:00

I was sitting on the floor of my parent's basement, going through some old photos, when I stumbled across these gems. I'm not easily embarrassed, so I decided to share. Facebook friends, you might recognize this first pic.

Here I am around age six. This was my first performance ever. My parents bribed me into doing it by getting me a rabbit, which I really really wanted. They didn't think he'd live over 10 years. I was Lana the Ladybug. It was terrifying. And those black things on my head are not part of the hat. I wish they were. Those are my huge bangs I'd get cut at Fantastic Sam's. I liked to see how tightly I could curl them. They were satisfactory if I could stick a pencil in the curl and it would stay.

First time in the recording studio. I'm probably 7 here. I recorded "That's No Way to Treat a Ladybug". I totally loved the experience. I'd share the song with you but I had a minor speech impediment at this age. With the help of Mr. Rue (Mista Woo, as I'd call him), I was able to overcome it.

16 or so. Playing the Graffiti Rock Challenge in Pittsburgh PA. The guy who looks like Dave Grohl next to me is my guitar player, Mike, rockin' the long hair. I kinda thought I was Janis Joplin at this age. I still have these pants.

Still 16 or so. Still thought I was Janis Joplin. Or Stevie Nicks. Lots of hand/arm movements.

It's funny to look back. Lots of amazing moments.

BUS STOP.

2011-10-10T09:19:00.000-07:00

[the little details: F21 dress, free people hat, chloe sunglasses, prada purse, elizabeth & james boots, vintage jewelry]

Getting ready for a jam-packed week of work and fun. It's only Monday afternoon and I'm already exhausted. Any interesting plans this week?

CURRENTLY LISTENING / FEIST

2011-10-07T08:50:00.000-07:00

I have such a girl crush on Feist. I saw her perform a few years ago in my hometown of Pittsburgh. She was touring with Rogue Wave at the time, and I was with my friend in the balcony of Carnegie Music Hall, just trying to get a glimpse of the action. Thankfully, some nice man gave us his tickets and we got to sit in the front row in time for her set. She was amazing... Completely enchanting and she looked like she stepped out of a (cute) American Apparel ad.

I'm so thrilled to have her new album, called Metals, which came out this week. I only wish she had a tour date coming up around here. I'd love to see her live again. For now, this new album will have to do.

You can listen to her single "How Come You Never Go There", featuring Feist's "choir of hipsters", live on Letterman below.

MAKING IT.

2011-10-06T09:18:00.000-07:00

I was at J Crew, trying on a pair of pants that fit like a glove and I just loved, when I glanced at the price tag. They were $500. I thought... What the hell. I can make these! So to the sewing machine I went.

Will debut these shiny gold beauties (with crooked stitches and all) very soon.

P.S. Thanks for the compliments on my nails! Did them myself using this tutorial here. Go try it! So easy.

COFFEE / TO-DO LISTS.

2011-10-05T08:48:00.000-07:00

[the little details: all saints coat and purse, stylestalker leggings, wornout no-name boots + vintage jewels]

Coffee run + writing in my many notebooks. I'm a total to-do list junkie. With the amount of stuff I have going on, it keeps me sane.

The to-do lists I create aren't even slightly doable though. They consist of about 42 things per day, including exercise routines I never get to, and creative projects that have been on the back burner for maybe six months. They're more like lists of the productive Danielle I'd like to be, who can do tons of pushups, write amazing songs, answer every email, and yet never seem frazzled.

Wishful thinking / There's always tomorrow?

SHE'S A MANIAC.

2011-10-04T11:34:00.000-07:00

Definitely liking the Abbey Lee Kershaw for ManiaMania kaleidoscope photos, but as always, I'm loving the jewelry. The Abbey Lee Ring (shown above) is incredible.

Keep the diamonds, this is the ring I want.

CASTING THE WEB.

2011-10-03T18:56:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday, Mike & I had our first official webcast! We answered played acoustic versions of my songs, did a Q&A in the chat room, and gave away a lot of merch! If you missed it, you can watch it all here.

CURRENTLY READING : warm bodies

2011-10-02T14:26:00.000-07:00

I really love zombies. I'll go for a zombie movie any day. Zombie books, I haven't encountered as much. I saw this book in the recommended section of the bookstore and I picked it up solely because my curiosity was piqued. It's been dubbed a "slacker zombie novel", and that's pretty on par. But it's totally enjoyable. There's a very "Beauty and the Beast" type story going on, but the fact that the girl could get her brains eaten any second keeps it from going into crappy chick lit territory. I could definitely see this book being turned into a movie in the future.

Pick it up. Read it quickly. Let me know what you think.

PURPLE HAZE

2011-09-30T12:33:00.000-07:00

[the little details: FP dress, nanette lepore fringe purse, vivienne westwood pumps]

CURRENTLY LISTENING.

2011-09-29T09:04:00.000-07:00

My personal playlist for the week. Written up just for you. What's currently on your iPod?

THE WRITING ON THE WALL.

2011-09-28T12:51:00.000-07:00

[the little details: F21 blouse, E&J shorts, vivienne westwood pumps]

Just painted the doors in my rehearsal space in this great chalkboard paint. It was easy as could be, and now I have ample space to write up set lists, new lyrics, anything my little heart desires. I'm going to be writing all over the walls like a madwoman.

P.S. Live Webcast tonight at 8pm EST. Just go to my Facebook fan page for an acoustic performance, giveaways, and a little Q&A time too.

RODARTE + RYDIE

2011-09-27T16:57:00.000-07:00

I love these boots. This little guy loves them too.

COME WHAT MAE.

2011-09-26T21:18:00.000-07:00

LIVE WEBCAST

2011-09-19T16:51:00.000-07:00

Doing a webcast on September 28th where I'll be doing a live acoustic performance, Q&A, and giving away free copies of my signed CD. Tune in at 8pm EST on my Facebook page!

BEDAZZLE ME.

2011-09-17T10:28:00.000-07:00

[little details: vintage velvet jacket, helmut lang tank, j crew jeans, alexander wang heels]

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend!

I plan to catch up on some work, but will probably make some time to go out with my girlfriends as well. Life's too short.

Oh! And thank you for the beautiful comments. I plan to catch up on those this weekend too! You are fabulous.

xo D

YINZ KNOW.

2011-09-15T17:51:00.000-07:00

With Joe Manganiello. Two Pittsburgh natives hanging out. Some of you may recognize him from True Blood, where he plays the very sexy werewolf Alcide.

CURRENTLY READING: Vintage Vogues

2011-09-14T10:31:00.000-07:00

[little details: FP dress - affectionately known as "the Warped Tour dress", Tom Binns cuff, vintage Mexican silver cuff, Alexander McQueen skull ring, F21 earrings, La Dama cage ring]

I've been picking up some vintage copies of Vogue from the '60s and '70s, as I stumble upon them during my many flea market/antique store scavenger hunts. It's a shame to say it... But I'm kind of enjoying these more than the mags on newsstands right now. The vintage clothing is just so outrageous and it doesn't even seem dated with the resurgence of the flowerchild/rock chick look going on right now. Plus, I love the history, authenticity, and some of the little music articles woven throughout the pages. I could see a few of these images becoming the inspiration for upcoming photoshoots.

Not to mention that the articles like "25 Ways to Feel and Look Better" are pretty hilarious.

According to Vogue on January 15th, 1970, here are some ways you can look and feel better:

1. Expand your hair this minute : There's a new hair groom emulsion by the name of The Thicket. Use it.

2. Become a narcissist.

3. Change the colour of your world with cosmetic glasses.

4. Iron, anyone?

5. Draw a bath that will improve your disposition. "One great beauty enters her bath with masque and eye pads, no reading allowed. Lets the water trickle to keep it warm. It drips, hypnotizingly, against complete silence... Another puts her evening makeup on before she enters the bath. The steam, she holds, sets it..."

6. Recognize, and do battle with cellulite : "Walk" across an uncarpeted floor on your derriere.

7. Find someone to pay attention to you. Your husband, if you can organize his resources.

Ok. Maybe the beauty/lifestyle tips are a bit dated, if the fashion isn't.

CURRENTLY LISTENING

2011-09-13T09:59:00.000-07:00

The Last of Summer

2011-09-12T09:54:00.000-07:00

[little details: vintage vest from thriftwares, alexander wang booties, abc carpet and home scarf used as belt, vintage jewels]

We pulled over on a winding road to take some photos of the last of the green leaves. The weather is already starting to get a bit cooler and the leaves are changing... This is my favorite time of year. I'm ready for scarves, pumpkin spice lattes, and the holiday I enjoy so much, Halloween.

xo D

three snakes and one charm

2011-09-06T10:33:00.000-07:00

A duet with Jarrod Gorbel (formerly of the Honorary Title) and Nicole Atkins.

The video is completely charming.

EXILED

2011-09-02T08:00:00.000-07:00

A documentary about the Stones creation of their album Exile on Main Street.

If you're a Stones fan, I recommend it. There were a lot of great photos/footage that I had never seen before, and you really get a feel for what the scene was like at the time. Now I'm off to listen to Exile back to back.

Tumblin' Dice has always been one of my favorite songs...

ROADSIDE.

2011-09-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

[romper from modcloth]

A little roadside stop. Here I am... Just showing off the assets while getting a refreshing beverage.

THE HANGOVER: Vegas Photo Diary

2011-08-31T08:00:00.000-07:00

"Remember, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. Except for herpes. That shit'll come back with you." - The Hangover

I would like to thank The Palms Casino for having me! It was such a fun show and it was glorious to be treated like a princess for the weekend! They really know how to do it right.

My band boys were late getting in, so that gave me an excuse to roam around, snap a lot of these photos, and maybe try on some really expensive shoes at Barneys... I don't know why I torture myself in that way. It's so hard to say goodbye...

If you follow me on Facebook or Twitter you also know that I ate some sushi-pizza (you just put sushi rolls + soy sauce on pizza and eat it. I have a strong stomach), and I had to carry a large cardboard cutout/poster of myself onto the flight home. My bitchy flight attendant said, "If you want to bring HER onboard, you'll have to buy her a seat!". Good times.

I digress.

I always love Vegas and am anxiously awaiting another trip. Perhaps I'll see some of you there? Preferably poolside for a bit? With a cocktail in hand.

The Ex Files.

2011-08-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

Because some of you were asking about the necklace I wore in this post...

It's called the ex-boyfriends necklace and is comprised of roughly 13 little skulls.

Apparently some ladies like to carve skulls, name them after their ex-boyfriends, and wear them around their neck.

I personally just like to write nasty songs about each of my ex-boyfriends and call it a day, but whatever.

ON THE NIGHTSTAND.

2011-08-26T11:04:00.000-07:00

I read this book when it first came out and absolutely fell in love with it. It's very much a story about Patti Smith's love and partnership with Robert Mapplethorpe, which was fascinating, but portions of it really resonated with me for other reasons. Being a young artist and trying to find my footing, I could relate to many of Patti Smith's fears and questions as she started out. Her passion for art and her perseverance is very inspiring.

I've since picked it up and started reading it again... The pages are all dog-eared and the margins are all filled with my nonsensical scribbles. Here are some of my favorite quotes:

Where does it all lead? What will become of us? These were our young questions, and young answers were revealed. It leads to each other. We become ourselves.

On that night, too excited to sleep, infinite possibilities seemed to swirl above me. I stared up at the plaster ceiling as I had done as a child. It seemed to me that the vibrating patterns overhead were sliding into place. The mandala of my life.

I was both scattered and stymied, surrounded by unfinished songs and abandoned poems. I would go as far as I could and hit a wall, my own imagined limitations. And then I met a fellow who gave me his secret, and it was pretty simple. When you hit a wall, just kick it in.

I feel no sense of vindication as one of the handfuls of survivors. I would rather have seen them all succeed, catch the brass ring. As it turned out, it was I who got one of the best horses.

If you have any book recommendations, please send them my way. I'm always on the lookout for another good read.

Sun Days.

2011-08-24T14:12:00.000-07:00

My favorite sunglasses. My drummer, Kevin Rice, looks pretty good in them too.

Songshooter Feature

2011-08-22T14:16:00.000-07:00

I have a track featured on Songshooter again today! Click on their logo below.

Billy Thin from Songshooter on my song "No More Excuses",

"ok. after a few of her songs, i'm thinking that danielle might be a little bit of a handful in a relationship… not that i'm not… JUST an observation. besides, dani… all i got is excuses, and the worst part is that they're not as good as the truth…….. once again, i've said too much. thanks for the tune dude. billy thinnnnnnnn"

Me? A handful?? Never... I've no idea what he's talking about.

GET WARPED : WARPED TOUR PHOTO DIARY

2011-08-22T11:49:00.000-07:00

[the day's line-up of bands on a massive blow-up]

[In my Free People dress. All onstage photos are courtesy of Jeff McCullough. Thank you!]

[discarded clothes and everyone's tour buses]

[meeting lots of new friends/fans after the show + signing things]

We arrived at Warped Tour around 10am and it was already about 95 degrees. I quickly used my ponytail holder to tie my pretty dress up into a semi-slutty mini toga, the guys in my band changed into swim trunks, and then they made their t shirts into crop tops. Mike, my guitarist, declared that he was only ingesting beer and cotton candy for the day. I pretended I didn't know them.

I walked around the entire venue and got to check out a lot of the bands on this particular tour date. I caught some acts I had never heard of, but am now a dedicated fan. By the time I took the stage for my set it was approximately 98 degrees (yeah, like the boy band), and I think I was melting. God was it fun though!

It was wild to see SO many people come out to support some great artists. Under the hot sun, in the extreme heat, music lovers united! It's a crazy scene and it was amazing to meet so many of you. We laughed. We danced. We rocked out.

Warped Tour, land of the bare midriffs and awkward tan lines, I loved you.

xo D

Addiction.

2011-08-07T14:11:00.000-07:00

I love Dave Grohl. I love coffee. I love this video. FRESH POTS?

Leather, Leopard, and Laces.

2011-08-04T13:47:00.000-07:00

"Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things."

/ ROBERT BRAULT

... Enjoying the little things.

Caricatures in Times Square

2011-08-03T18:27:00.000-07:00

I'm really not obsessed with big boobs, even though it comes off that way in this video. And we were all supposed to be merpeople... Which makes me wonder... Why the hell is Mike Superman?

He isn't complaining. I think he's rather flattered.

Snaps from Band Practice

2011-08-02T09:52:00.001-07:00

Hanging out on an amp at band practice.

When I was little, I used to grab a ton of Sharpies when no one was looking, and just draw all over my body. It's not surprising that I now tend to doodle on my jeans, shoes, anything I can, really.

Mixtape Monday : Your Favorite Songs

2011-08-01T17:46:00.000-07:00

Your all-time favorite songs. Picked by my friends on Facebook & Twitter!

Ghost Town

2011-08-01T10:35:00.000-07:00

I shared the video for my second single, "Wango Tango", with you just a few weeks ago. Here's my music video for the first single, "Ghost Town", off my album.

If you like it, share it with your friends & re-post!

xo D

Psychic in Suburbia!

2011-07-30T08:08:00.000-07:00

The wonderful people at Sander/Moses Productions (executive producers of "Ghost Whisperer") have a new show airing TONIGHT! It's on STYLE NETWORK at 9 PM ET/PT. It's going to be fabulous, so TUNE IN!

Pretty little things.

2011-07-26T07:19:00.000-07:00

A few dreamy little pictures for a beautiful Tuesday.

Mixtape Monday : Relaxing Songs

2011-07-25T09:58:00.000-07:00

This week's mixtape is filled with a ton of calming songs that help my fans & friends on Facebook & Twitter relax. Give it a listen this week if you're in need of some calming music.

Some music that relaxes me, personally, is anything by Feist, Rachael Yamagata, or Volcano Choir.

Also, check out these cassette tape portraits below. Aren't they awesome? A perfect fit for Mixtape Monday, I think.

[if you know the source of these awesome cassette tape portraits, please tell me in the comments section so I can credit them accordingly!]

To Start the Week Off...

2011-07-25T06:42:00.000-07:00

Tour Diary : Portland

2011-07-24T09:37:00.000-07:00

A vlog filmed in one of my favorite cities, Portland. Shopping eating, and rehearsing backstage before my show at The Wonder Ballroom.

An Explosive Minute.

2011-07-20T09:57:00.000-07:00

Some live shots from a wonderful show at Rockwood Music Hall in New York, as shot by Joe Wehner.

Mixtape Monday : Inspiring Songs

2011-07-19T16:56:00.000-07:00

(Yes, I know I'm a day late! I was just dying to share my new music video with you first! Go watch it below before you listen to this playlist!)

For this week's mixtape, I had my Facebook/Twitter fans and friends provide me with songs they found to be "inspirational". The responses were really all over the place, but here are some of their songs that I selected.

For next week's mixtape : What are some songs that help you relax?

Leave them here, tweet at me, or comment on my Facebook!

NEW VIDEO: Wango Tango

2011-07-18T10:06:00.000-07:00

It's finally here. My new music video for my song "Wango Tango". Check it out and pass it on to your friends!

Things I Love : Japanese Film Posters

2011-07-17T09:24:00.000-07:00

(Casablanca, Live and Let Die, Alfie, Help, Sabrina, Rhapsody)

All images from Ebay.

Sometimes the only sane answer to an insane world is insanity.

2011-07-15T13:00:00.000-07:00

After that interesting video of me "working the pole" (if you could call it that... but really, it IS a workout...), I find that I must redeem myself with a tiny touch of glamour.

This ring is one of my all-time favorites. Makes me feel like a badass. Gets me that Keith Richards vibe without the massive drug consumption. It's a good thing.

Spending the weekend relaxing / gearing up for another busy week. Warped Tour, here I come!

Tour Diary : Working Girls

2011-07-13T09:28:00.000-07:00

In this week's tour diary... We breakdown in Yreka and I learn that if my singing career doesn't work out, I could NEVER be a stripper. What a sad realization that was.

I'm warped.

2011-07-12T14:33:00.000-07:00

I'll be playing the WARPED Tour next week (July 22nd) at The First Niagara Pavilion!
If you're planning on coming, stop by and see my set! I'll be announcing more details shortly.

Things I Love : Delfina Delettrez

2011-07-06T12:30:00.000-07:00

Just in case you wanted to wear a hand on your hand, or carry around a massive tarantula for awhile. I know I do. But if you don't... Spare a few thousand dollars and buy one of these for me? C'mon. Here's the link.

WHIRL MAGAZINE: Best Dressed

2011-07-05T15:07:00.000-07:00

Named Best Dressed in WHIRL Magazine. How cool!

(No, that's not me in the first photo... But a girl can dream...)

Mixtape Monday : Guilty Pleasure Songs

2011-07-04T11:21:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July!

Well, for this Mixtape Monday, I asked my friends on Facebook & Twitter to tell me their favorite guilty pleasure songs. I'm kind of ashamed of what some of you are listening to, but it was fun outing you.

I added one of my own songs, "Half Lie" onto the mix. It's not just a guilty pleasure song, though. Feel free to listen to it whenever you like.

Mexican Wine

2011-07-01T15:26:00.000-07:00

Oh I'm so bad. I just had to post this video of my guitar player, Mike, singing karaoke.

I'm gonna have to sleep with one eye open from now on... Still totally worth it though.

I conveniently lost the video of me singing/dancing. Oops.

Write Me Off.

2011-06-29T09:51:00.000-07:00

Nothing can beat a good lounge day at times. Just hanging out in one of my favorite little spaces, reading, doodling, and writing.

Mixtape Monday - Summer Playlist

2011-06-27T15:22:00.000-07:00

My friends on Facebook & Twitter shared their favorite summer songs. Make sure to listen to these on a beautiful summer day!

If you didn't share this week, what are some of your favorite summer songs?

Early Warhol.

2011-06-23T14:13:00.000-07:00

Like Andy Warhol, I was born in Pittsburgh. We have The Andy Warhol Museum here, and it's so much fun to visit when I'm back in the area.

So, when I saw these early Warhols on http://www.takeonlymemories.com, I just HAD to re-blog. They make me smile. Love these!

Tour Diary: Part One

2011-06-22T06:29:00.000-07:00

A little look at what my daily life is like while on the road...

[A few notes: Along with other things, in this little segment we broke down in the Bronx on our way to New York City for a show with The Gracious Few. We ended up stranded in a neighborhood, parked RIGHT in front of a bus stop, where a bunch of non-English speaking folks knocked on our windows and tried to take a ride with us. Even though some kind man in crazy pajama pants tried to assist with the repair of the trailer (meaning he offered to rob his neighbor in order to get us parts for the trailer), we never made that show.

Oh, and the reason why I had to whisper through most of this is because The Gracious Few were trying to do an interview next door & kept pounding on the wall shouting,"Shut the fuck up!". I still love them.]

I digress, as usual, but here's part one of my journey, including a small glimpse at some of the mishaps. We're going to start out tame here with the vlogs and gradually increase the stupidity, ok?
Hope you enjoy.