Now that we are officially in 2007 it’s time to take a retrospective and nostalgic look at the year that has just ended. I loved 2006. I’ve been waiting for such an eclectic, romantic and fruitful year like this one forever, or so at least it seems.

Here are my top picks for what made 2006 the year it was:

1. YouTube. Cynicism, criticism and skepticism aside, YouTube is rapidly redefining global journalism. And it’s totally not just about bloopers. If you missed Saddam’s execution or if you need a few more Borat highlights - YouTube is where the good old editors can be bypassed. MetaCafe et al are great, but the historic landmark rightfully belongs with YouTube.

2. MySpace. This is a trap because I personally can’t stand MySpace. I personally trashed MySpace a few times in this blog. Still, I can only admire what MySpace has become for music. Independent talents do not need to kiss some pompous A&R ass anymore and they have MySpace to thank for that!

3. Zoho, Clarizen and yes, Google too, that have finally begun to transfer office apps from the monopolistic hands of Microsoft to the world wide web. It’s only the beginning, but Gates and Balmer sweat and for a good reason.

4. Open source, Linux, FireFox, mySQL, PHP…. whatever the old schoolers claim about the negative impact of “free”, there is more money for us in a competitive environment then in one controlled by Oracle, Microsoft, SAP and IBM.

5. George Michael’s 25 Live tour. At the age of 43 and after 25 years in the business, George Michael remains one of my favorite muzes. You can make serious music and real serious statements without taking yourself too seriously. Hey Sting, watch and listen!