Saturday, October 31, 2009
New Hip Hop: Timbaland "Carry Out" featuring Justin Timberlake
New Video: Jay-Z "Empire State of Mind" featuring Alicia Keys
They did a really good job with this video, it's very powerful. Anyone from the greatest city in the world can easily identify with it at some point.
Classic R&B Song of the Day: Michael Jackson "Thriller" (1982)
It's only right on Halloween. R.I.P. MJ.
Classic Hip Hop Song of the Day: Bone Thugs N Harmony "First of the Month" (1995)
"Wake Up, Wake Up, Wake Up!"
Friday, October 30, 2009
New R&B: Three New Usher Songs "Blockin," "More," & "Daddy's Home"
Three possible songs off of Usher's Upcoming Album "Raymond vs. Raymond," which will be in stores December 8.
Classic R&B Song of the Day: Dru Hill "In My Bed" Remix featuring Jermaine Dupri and Da Brat (1996)
One of the best RnB groups of the 90's, these guys were really talented and it's too bad we didn't get more material from them. Jermaine Dupri had the remix game on lock for awhile, and this is one of his masterpieces. Dru Hill is working on a new album due out early next year.
Classic Hip Hop Song of the Day: The Notorious B.I.G. "Big Poppa" (1994)
One of the greatest MC's of all time. Would hip hop really have gone to where it is now if he hadn't passed away way too soon?
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Tracklisting for Wale's "Attention Deficit"
1. Triumph
2. Mama Told Me
3. Mirrors feat. Bun B
3. Pretty Girls feat. Gucci Mane and Weensey of Backyard Band
4. World Tour feat. Jazmine Sullivan
5. Let It Loose (Inhibitions) feat. Pharrell
6. 90210
7. Shades feat. Chrisette Michele
8. Chillin’ feat. Lady Gaga
9. TV in the Radio feat. K’naan
10. Contemplate feat. Rihanna
11. Diary feat. Marsha Ambrosius
12. Beautiful Bliss feat. Melanie Fiona & J. Cole
13. Prescription
Album in stores November 10.
New R&B: Alicia Keys "Try Sleeping With a Broken Heart"
"Try Sleeping With a Broken Heart" is a brand new leak from Alicia Keys. It is rumored to be the second single from her new album. Although I haven't heard the whole album, I can definitely see this would be a good choice, it's a great motivational ballad for all those dealing with a broken heart. No word on if this is a response to Mashonda's letter to Alicia ;-).
New Video: Ne-Yo "Never Knew I Needed"
Here is the official video for Ne-Yo's song "Never New I Needed." The song is set to be featured on the soundtrack for Disney's movie "The Princess and the Frog."
Album Review: Amerie "In Love & War"
My review of Amerie's album "In Love & War" was published on Grown Folks music. Click here to read and click more to read an excerpt.
I’m all for personal growth and experimentation with artists, but there comes a time when they need to find their boundaries and understand what works well for them. After a beautiful debut, it’s almost as if she took what worked well and threw it out in favor of something new. Whereas her debut album flowed so well from start to finish, “In Love & War” pulls the listener in every direction sound wise in procession, causing the album to lack an identity. If you could listen to abstract art, this is what it might sound like. The bottom line is, Amerie has a great voice and unique style, and is very talented, but needs to understand how she succeeded in the past and stick with that.
Rating 2.5/5
New R&B: J. Holiday "Lose Your Love" featuring Claudette Ortiz
Remember Claudette Ortiz? She used to sing in the group City High back in the early 00's, but hasn't really been heard much from since. That's the only reason I'm posting a J. Holiday song, as I'm not really a big fan of his!
Classic Hip Hop Song of the Day: Pete Rock & CL Smooth "They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y.)" (1992)
I would LOVE to see these two get back together; one of the sickest producers and one of the slickest MC's. This song is a tribute to their fallen friend, Trouble T Roy from Heavy D and the Boyz, who was killed during a concert from an accidental fall.
Classic R&B Song of the Day: R. Kelly "Did You Ever Think" Remix featuring Nas (1998)
"Did You Ever Think" R. Kelly would get busted on child pornography charges?
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Favorite Songs from Brian McKnight's Album "Evolution of a Man"
Here are my favorite songs from Brian McKnight's album "Evolution of a Man." The album released October 27th.
Favorite Songs from Amerie's Album "In Love & War"
Here are my favorite songs from Amerie's upcoming album "In Love & War." I'll have a review of the album coming later this week.
New R&B: Lee Carr "Song for the Broken Hearted"
Although he's had songs out before, this is the first time I've had the chance to listen to Lee Carr, a 22 year old from New York. His vocals aren't the best, but it looks like he's making an attempt at singing real r&b and I can respect that. We shall see where his career goes.
New Hip Hop: Missy Elliot "Put it on Ya" featuring Teyana Taylor
Missy Elliot is preparing the release of her new album "Block Party" for release early next year, and "Put it on Ya" is a song recorded for it. It's produced by The Neptunes and they go hard on the track as usual. Missy is one of the artists I respect most for being a constant innovator.
Album Review: Brian McKnight "Evolution of a Man"
Check out the album review I did for Brian McKnight's album "Evolution of a Man." It was published on RnB Haven.
Click Here to Read
Classic R&B Song of the Day: Mariah Carey "Always Be My Baby" (1996)
Always Be My Baby - Mariah Carey
Classic pure Mariah Carey before she flopped with Glitter, started having nervous breakdowns, and then re-invented herself to make radio friendly bubble gum pop music.
Classic Hip Hop Song of the Day: Skee-Lo "I Wish" (1995)
"I wish I was a little bit taller, I wish I as a baller..."
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
YouKnowIGotSoul Interview With Kevon Edmonds
Today I was fortunate enough to interview r&b veteran Kevon Edmonds. He discussed everything from his new album, to the change in the music industry, to staying true to his roots. It was a pleasure talking with him, and I hope you enjoy reading.
Thomas Leo: First of all, congratulations on the release of your new album.
Kevon Edmonds: Thank you very much I appreciate that.
TL: For this new album, when you began the process of making it, did you set to go off in a different direction than your first album?
KE: You know, it’s been ten years since 24/7 and you know sometimes you feel you need to connect to the last project you’ve done, but so much time has elapsed that I wasn’t quite sure whether or not that was going to be the approach, to try and tie this into 24/7 and all of that stuff. I thought that I would start out fresh, just really try and get back to my roots of kinda where my music started, and the mindset was that I wanted to bridge my world of where I start with the world of r&b music here today.
TL: In another interview I read that you did, you mention the industry has evolved in so many ways. Do you feel the way that the way it’s evolved, did that cause you to try and do anything differently or did you basically stick to your roots like you mentioned?
KE: Well you know this is the first time that I’ve ever been signed to an independent label. The industry changing that is one of the changes I’ve witnessed. Probably a lot of other mainstream r&b artists that have been signed to major labels have decided to go a different route, you know, and that’s because the times are different in terms of how labels and label executives perceive to be what is hip, hot or cool. They are looking for something different so shopping a deal at a major label, it proves to be a far more difficult task than it once was. At the same time, you kinda learn certain lessons, financial lessons. You know that you are going to get a greater benefit, it may require more work, a lot more leg work, and so on and so forth. In so many areas of when you are talking about working an independent project, the benefits at the end of the day can far outweigh those when you go with a major label.
TL: Now looking at your new album, one of my favorite songs is “April’s Fool,” does that evoke a certain memory for you or something from your past?
KE: Well it was actually written by a young lady by the name of Courtney Harrell, she’s a great song writer in my opinion, very talented. She seems to get a handle on just kinda how to tell a story of general life experiences. I didn’t necessarily identify with it at first, but the more and more I listened to it, I understood the story because you know, if you ever have been involved in relationships or had a thing for a young lady, it seems like it’s the one that you really really want, she’s the least bit concerned about you. She may like “Brutus” over here, she’ll go spend all of her time with “Brutus,” but then get over here with you and just, she just wants to be around like “I know you like me” but ok, and that’s enough. So I really didn’t understand the story she was telling, but then (Ping), a light came on, and it was like yea, we gotta tell this story.
TL: Do you have any personal favorites off of the new album?
KE: That is a hard one. Of course I love “Oh,” but I think one of my favorites….it’s a tough one. I really do like “Who Knew,” the title cut of the album. That’s just a special song to me, but so is “Oh,” so it’s really kinda hard to make a pick.
TL: Yea, that is understandable.
KE: Let me also add, I did read your review (Click here to read) and it was like, it’s almost like you were there. It really truly, in terms of understanding how we got to where we were with this project, it’s like wow, you get it, you nailed it, I couldn’t have said it better myself. Everybody didn’t have to be at the same opinion, because everybody feels differently about things. You seem to hone in on exactly what our mind set was. I was speaking with our management partner, a guy from Make Entertainment, and he was like “God this dude, he must have been there or something, I mean this is crazy!” That’s pretty amazing to me that you were dead on.
TL: Thank you, that means a lot to me. I really appreciate the praise.
KE: Thank YOU.
TL: You mention “Oh” as being one of your favorites, and that is the first single, now do you have anything in mind for a second single or are you not even looking to that yet?
KE: It’s too hard to call just yet. I do know that a lot of people are really into “Who Knew,” a lot of people like “Callin,” a lot of people like “April’s Fool” as well. So, it’s tricky business over here. I haven’t determined which one just yet.
TL: On the interlude on your album, there is a voice mail from Tyrese saying “you are about to bring r&b back,” which is very high and deserving praise. Do you feel you get respect like that from other artists around the industry?
KE: I think that other artists in the industry, they are aware of who I am, probably not much attention has been focused on me as a solo artist. They pretty much probably know me more as a guy from After 7 or Babyface’s brother or whatever. I think that there is a respect, it’s just that it is not as prevalent in the mindset with them. A hit record changes everything no matter what. Perhaps those are some of the intangibles that have to take place in order to maybe bring higher visibility; it changes a lot of things.
TL: Since it’s been ten years since your first album, did you always have plans to release a 2nd album?
KE: Yea, I did. Actually, I started the process of recording a second album shortly after, a year or two after, the 24/7 album, and then I backed away from it with 9/11 and RCA folding up, you know I said let me step away from this. Then, at that point, I knew I needed a break, and I wanted to kinda try some different things at that point. But I always sensed that I would get back and record again, I just had to step away from it for awhile.
TL: I read in another interview that you “are happy with the current state of r&b today.” When you hear some of the younger r&b artists coming up today using such devices as voice technology to basically help them sing, does it bother you?
KE: It is simply the sign of times and technology. You are gonna use what is afforded to you. I mean, there was a time when the only way that you were going to get a record deal is if an A&R guy happened to be coming through and someone that you knew that knew someone that knew someone would get the A&R guy to come into your town and see you, it was like “There’s a guy that’s gonna see us perform!” I mean that would be the only way you were going to get a deal. Now how many chances, how many opportunities do you have for something like that to take place? So this guy had to be moving around in order for you to be discovered. Can I complain? I got signed to Virgin records because my brother and LA were two of the hottest producers and we signed. Kids, young talent today, they can be in their basement creating something, and be on MTV within the next 6 months, I mean that’s how they see it, that’s their world, you now along with that there is all kinds of changes. Now I would love to hear real talent, vocalists, you don’t have to do the tricks. You can play with it, use it as an accessory if you will. But don’t let it become the primary tool by which you deliver your talent, to me. But you know, hey, this is what people are listening to. Can you mix it up a little bit? Yea I would prefer if they mix it up a little bit and gave me more. I have a nephew who also wrote on this record as well, and he was submitting some other music to me that he wanted to hear. I said, I like it, but the problem is I’m not hearing your tone. I’m more moved by your voice, but I don’t get a chance to hear it because it’s disguised, it’s covered up, and that’s what I said to him. You know, this technology and all these other tools they use, it does not resonate deep within. But a tone, well that’s something else. It gets beyond your ears and gets into your heart, if done right. There is a sincerity you can hear, the believability, the genuineness in the way that someone delivers something, that goes a lot farther than *imitates an auto tune noise* *Laughs*.
TL: Can you tell me some of your favorite artists to listen to in the music industry today?
KE: That’s doing stuff today? I love what Keyshia Cole does, she’s had some really nice strong r&b songs, I love what she does. I love the stuff that Rihanna does, and Chris Brown, and of course Jay-Z. There are some of the people that are still just doing what they do, or new at it, but just silent, solid performers.
TL: As a 2nd part of the previous question, are there any artists that you have not had a chance to work with that you would like the opportunity to collaborate with?
KE: I mean there’s so many because I have never really collaborated with anyone. Probably the only collaboration has been with my brother, who has joined me on my solo project and on some After 7 stuff and we had the Milestone with K-Ci and Jo Jo stuff. I’ve never done a duet with a female artist, it’s just going to be the right time, the right song, and the right person, and that could be anyone. Not just anyone, but I think there are some folks that I think our voices would compliment each other, but I shall not jinx anything! *laughs* When that time comes, we will cross that bridge if its possible, then hopefully they will be saying they should have done that a long time ago.
TL: While attending the University of Indiana, before deciding to go into a career in music, what did you have in mind for a career?
KE: It was telecommunications. Of course in college when you start out, you can have 15 different majors. But originally, it was psychology, and then it was telecommunications.
TL: Since you grew up with brothers who were very talented musically, and went on to also become artists, were there ever rivalries that existed between you or any sort of camaraderie?
KE: You know back when we were younger, there was never any rivalry I believe. My brother Melvin who sang with me in After 7, he was kinda like the frontrunner in terms of talent, and in terms of getting involved in music and really kinda exposing us to it by live performance, because he used to have a band and stuff. So that really kinda opened us up, it wasn’t just hearing music in the house, whether an LP or anything like that. My brother also, he loved it so much that it was something he inspired to do, so it kinda opened us up in a way. As far as rivalry, I would say there was none. Probably later on as Kenny learned to play acoustic guitar and he would often times play acoustic guitar and we would kinda do a little singing on the front porch, but that was it.
TL: I also read in another interview that this is the first project that you haven’t had a chance to collaborate with Babyface on. Has doing a full collaboration album with your brother Babyface ever been something you’ve considered or would consider doing?
KE: I would be open to it, but more importantly its gotta be something he is game to doing. Until that happens, I don’t know that it will. It has to be a consideration that he’s taking into account. Again, the right time and everything else as well, if we could put it together in such a way. It could prove to be something that we could have some fun with and create some special moments but its gotta to be that everybody is on the same page at the same time.
TL: You’ve been active as an artist since the late 80’s, what do you consider to be the key to your longevity in the music industry and do you feel you’ve needed to adapt a lot to stay successful?
KE: I think having a real love for what you do, and just being appreciative and grateful for having the opportunity to do something that you love doing can carry you a long way. But you still along with that have to have a spirit of, a willingness to have a strong work ethic, because you have to do the work as well. You can love it, but if you are not willing to do the work well, believing in something and having faith in something without work as they say is dead. So you have to do the work along with it. Change is inevitable, you can’t fight change, so if you try to fight change, you get left behind. You can still make adjustments but still hold onto the integrity of what you do, but being mindful that you can’t sit still and think that everything else is going to evolve around you. You have to be mindful of the fact that it’s always changing and make adjustments to stay relevant.
TL: How would you describe the style of music you make to someone who is listening to your music for the first time?
KE: I would say my style of music is, well……I would suggest that they would sit back and just listen to something that is going to tell you a story. I really kinda consider myself a story teller through a song. And my music is soothing, it can be sexy at times, it can be fun, its like be prepared to just enjoy a nice smooth ride, a nice journey if you will, of different tempos and different perspectives on love and relationships.
TL: Now that you have completed your 2nd album, what’s next for you?
KE: Still a lot of work to be done with this particular record, this CD if you will. That was the first phase, and like it is in all other projects, there are different phases of work that have to be done. We are out here pounding the pavement making sure that we are doing what we need to do in radio, and also gearing up to do live performances, we are out here on the road supporting this music as well just for the fan base. Really its kinda like reintroducing myself once again for those who have known me to get them reacquainted again and hopefully at the same time we may open the door to some new untapped fans who may be interested, who may see the live performances. But you know the next phase of work is on, that’s what’s up.
TL: Can we get a promise from you to your fans that they won’t have to wait another 10 years for your next album?
KE: I was about to tell you before you asked this other question that I can assure you that you won’t have to wait another ten. *Laughs* “Oh yes, new album 2019, I’m going to be dropping a new album.” *Laughs* No, I’ll be back long before, that is a promise.
New Hip Hop: Shawnna "Believe Me" featuring John Legend
"Believe Me" is a new song by Shawnna and features an unlikely pairing with John Legend. DTP's first female MC is supposedly wrapping up a collaboration album with Ludacris but there is no release date for the project.
Album Release Reminder: Brian McKnight "Evolution of a Man" In Stores Today!
Brian McKnight's 11th album "Evolution of a Man" is in stores today. It's a pretty good album so definitely go and pick that up. I'll have a review coming out later.
Album Review: AZ "Legendary"
Check out the album review I did for AZ's album Legendary. It was just published on the bible of all hip hop review websites, www.RapReviews.com.
Click Here to Read
New R&B: Johnta Austin "Take You Home"
It seems that Johnta Austin is in a competition with Ne-Yo to see who can make the most songs in a year. Seemingly everyday we have another leaked song from one of the two artists. It's a real shame that with all these songs coming out, we can't even get a solo album from him.
New Hip Hop: Wale "Letter" featuring John Mayer
"Letter" is a new song by Wale that features a sample of John Mayer's song "3 X 5." No word right now if this will appear on his debut album "Attention Deficit" due in stores November 10. Wale has the potential and the buzz to be the next big thing in hip hop, let's see if he can live up to the hype.
Classic Hip Hop Song of the Day: Blackmoon "Buck 'em Down" (1993)
Today's Classic Hip Hop Song of the day is "Buck 'Em Down" by Brooklyn group Black Moon. Few people know that Black Moon actually stands for: Brothers who Lyrically Act and Combine Kickin Music Out On Nations. In an effort to squash the east coast/west coast beef, 2Pac had planned to collaborate with Buckshot of the group as well as Heltah Skeltah before his untimely death in 1996.
Classic R&B Song of the Day: Mary J. Blige " Real Love" (1992)
With the release of "What's the 411?" in 1992, Mary J. Blige would set off on a legendary career that would span nine albums and is still going strong. "Real Love" was her first big hit and its remix gave us the first appearance from the Notorious B.I.G. Mary J. Blige will release her next album "Stronger" on December 15.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Who Will Sell the Most First Week?
Which of These Albums Releasing on December 15 Will Sell the Most in the First Week?
With the announcement that Chris Brown will release his new album on December 15, he joins Mary J. Blige and Alicia Keys as three heavy hitters competing for sales on the same day. Who will sell the most in the first week?
With the announcement that Chris Brown will release his new album on December 15, he joins Mary J. Blige and Alicia Keys as three heavy hitters competing for sales on the same day. Who will sell the most in the first week?
New R&B: Mary J. Blige "I Can See In Color"
"I Can See in Color" is a new song by the Queen of Hip Hop Soul Mary J. Blige. Her new album "Stronger" is due in stores December 15.
New R&B: Ne-Yo "When He Kissed Me"
Here is a new demo song by Ne-Yo which is a forbidden track and obviously meant for a female. Should be interesting to see who ends up using it.
New R&B: Boyz II Men "If You Leave Me Now"
"If You Leave Me Now" is another song from the upcoming Boyz II Men cover album "Love." The song is a remake of rock group Chicago's #1 hit. The group puts a soulful spin on the song and it actually sounds pretty good.
Classic Hip Hop Song of the Day: Eric B & Rakim "I Know You Got Soul" (1987)
The inspiration for the name of this website, today's Classic Hip Hop Song of the Day is Eric B and Rakim's classic "I Know You Got Soul." Rakim, who is still rapping to this day, is widely recognized as one of the greatest MC's of all time. The group released four albums in total and inspired many rappers as lines from their songs have been sampled time and time again.
Classic R&B Song of the Day: Brian McKnight "Anytime" (1997)
Today's Classic R&B Song of the Day is Brian McKnight's biggest hit "Anytime" from 1997. The song would chart at #1 on the R&B Charts and lead to his album of the same name to go double platinum. His new album "Evolution of a Man" releases Tuesday.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
New Hip Hop: Timbaland "Say Something" featuring Drake
The closer we get to the release of Timbaland's "Shock Value 2" album, it seems more and more songs are leaking. I'm not a big fan of Drake, and I'm not even feeling him on this track, but Timbaland's production is crazy. "Shock Value 2" will be in stores December 8.
New R&B: Usher "Rock Band"
"Rock Band" is a song by Usher recorded for his upcoming "Raymond vs. Raymond" album. The release date on this his sixth album will be December 8th. This uptempo song is creative, but I don't consider it to be single material, if it makes the album at all.
Where is Carl Thomas?
When we last heard from Carl Thomas, he released his third album "So Much Better" in 2007. The album was released independently, and although it didn't perform too well on the charts, I was a big fan of it. According to his myspace page,
"Carl Thomas continues to write and is in the studio working on his fourth album. Fans, old and new, can expect that classic, soulful 'Carl Thomas' sound that has been missed by many and matched by none in today's music industry." Those are very lofty claims, but for the most part he is right on track; not many artists in today's industry put the soul into the music that he does. I look forward to a new album hopefully coming next year.
Classic Hip Hop Song of the Day: Digital Underground "Humpty Dance" (1990)
One of the best hip hop dance songs of the 90's, also still in heavy rotation to this day.
Classic R&B Song of the Day: Montell Jordan "This is How We Do It" (1995)
One of the best R&B dance songs of the 90's, still in heavy rotation in the clubs to this day.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
New R&B: Toni Braxton "Woman"
"Woman" is a new song from Toni Braxton that will possibly appear on her next album "Pulse" in 2010. Prior to this, Braxton has not released an album since "Libra" in 2005. Over the past few years, she was working in Las Vegas as the leading act in the Flamingo Hotel in Casino, before going on to participate in Dancing with the Stars.
Classic Hip Hop Song of the Day: Nas "It Ain't Hard to Tell" (1994)
In terms of lyrical ability, a 20 year old Nas was light years ahead of his time on "It Ain't Hard to Tell." The "Human Nature" beat from Michael Jackson was sampled perfectly by Large Professor making this nearly a flawless song. I don't think anyone to this day would dispute Nas is a top 5 MC of all time.
Classic R&B Song of the Day: Bel Biv Devoe "Poison" (1990)
"You can't trust a big butt and a smile."
Friday, October 23, 2009
New R&B: Johnta Austin "I Am" featuring Mary J. Blige
A new song by Johnta Austin has surfaced called "I Am" featuring Mary J. Blige. The song is pretty good, and will possibly be included on his debut album "Ocean Drive" if it ever releases. Johnta is one of the best writers in r&b right now and although I'm not sure I could tolerate his voice over a full album, I'd still be anxious to hear one from him.
Upcoming Album: Boyz II Men "Love" and New Single "Can't Make You Love Me"
R&B legends Boyz II Men will be releasing their 9th studio album titled "Love" on November 17. This release will be a cover album comprised of "popular love songs of the past," and their 3rd cover album overall. The first single is set to be a cover of the classic Bonnie Raitt song "I Can't Make You Love Me." Now down to only three members, and with three of their past four albums being cover albums, it looks like the group is content to go the cover route for recording new music in the twilight of their career. This is not necessarily a knock against them, as they have already accomplished more than most groups ever will.
Upcoming Album: Brian McKnight "Evolution of a Man" and New Single "What I've Been Waiting For"
On October 27, Brian McKnight will release his 9th album (excluding two Christmas albums) after being pushed back a few times from the originally scheduled release dates. The album reportedly features collaborations with legend Stevie Wonder and neo-soul singer Jill Scott. The first single is the mid tempo jam "What I've Been Waiting For" and is posted below. This album is a follow up to his 2006 album "Ten" where he experimented with a more country style sound. I'm anxious to hear this offering from McKnight since he always seems to come through with a solid album.
New R&B: Jaheim "Ain't Leaving Without You"
Jaheim is back with a new song called "Ain't Leaving Without You" which might be a single off of his 5th album to be released next year. The song seems to sample De La Soul's "Ring Ring Ring" and has an old school feel to it. I really like the song, and feel when Jaheim makes songs like this as opposed to trying to sound like too much of a thug, he succeeds.
Classic R&B Song of the Day: Faith Evans "You Used to Love Me" (1995)
"You Used to Love Me" was the first single by Faith Evans back in 1995. The video features her then husband the Notorious B.I.G. posing as a DJ. Since her album "The First Lady" in 2005, Faith has not released any material and there is currently no word on a new album.
Classic Hip Hop Song of the Day: The Lost Boyz "Renee" (1996)
Queens rappers The Lost Boyz scored their biggest hit with "Renee" off their "Legal Drug Money" album in 1996. The song was a refrain from the group's usually hardcore style as it tells the sad story of the death of a girlfriend. After the unfortunate death of Freaky Tah in 1999, the group would disband and Mr. Cheeks would go on to have a decent solo career.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
New R&B: Ne-Yo "Sometimes"
"Sometimes" is a new leaked song by Ne-Yo. It looks to be a demo of the song he wrote for Mary J. Blige called "Fade Away" off of her last album Growing Pains. In terms of who does it better, I have to give the nod to Mary J on this one, although I often find Ne-Yo's demo versions to be better than the ones the artist records.
New Hip Hop: Timbaland "Rumors" featuring Jay-Z & Keri Hilson
Here is a new song from Timbaland called "Rumors" featuring Jay-Z and Keri Hilson that is possibly on his Shock Value II album. Timbaland is on point with the beat as usual, Jay-Z provides a decent rap, but Keri Hilson is a mess on this song. I didn't think she was a great singer, and now she's trying to rap? Not a good look.
Kevon Edmonds "Who Knew" Album Review
Check out the album review I wrote for the new Kevon Edmonds album "Who Knew." It has been published on the prestigious Grown Folks Music website. Click here to read.
Click below to read an excerpt.
"Although much has changed in rhythm and blues over that period of time, lucky for his fans, he doesn’t stray too far from his original formula for success on “Who Knew.” At first glance, the album only has ten tracks, including an introduction and an interlude. This is very short in terms of today’s standards, but I would quickly find this is because it is full of solid music without the filler."
Better R&B Group: Dru Hill or Blackstreet?
Vs.
Blackstreet
Which is the Better R&B Group?
Read more for group summaries.
Dru Hill
Albums: Dru Hill (1996), Enter the Dru (1998), Dru World Order (2002).
Singles: Tell Me, In My Bed, Never Make a Promise, 5 Steps, We're Not Making Love No More, How Deep is Your Love, These are the Times, You are Everything, Beauty, I Should Be..., I Love You,
Blackstreet
Albums: Blackstreet (1994), Another Level (1996), Finally (1999), Level II (2003).
Singles: Baby Be Mine, Booty Call, Before I Let You Go, Tonight's the Night, Joy, U Blow My Mind, No Diggity, Never Gonna Let You Go, Don't Leave Me, Fix, Take Me There, Boyfriend/Girlfriend, Think About You, Wizzy Wow, Deep.
Classic R&B Song of the Day: Aaliyah "Back and Forth" (1994)
Before her untimely passing in 2001, Aaliyah was set to take over the world and pretty much be Beyonce before Beyonce was Beyonce. With a starring role in the Matrix set to put her completely into the mainstream, preceded by the release of her third album, there is no doubt the sky was the limit. At the age of 15, she released "Back and Forth" as her first single.
Classic Hip Hop Song of the Day: 2Pac "Keep Ya Head Up" (1994)
Although the late 2Pac was widely known as a gangster rapper, he did have his share of political and motivational songs, and "Keep Ya Head Up" is one of them. The song, which urges us to respect our women, really shows the other side of 2Pac's personality. Many consider him to be one of the greatest rappers of all time partly due to his ability to deliver such a message on song.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Rare R&B: 112 "Swimming Pool" and "To the Crib"
I've just posted two tracks that were left over from 112's "Pleasure & Pain" album and never officially released. Both songs are actually decent, but on the other hand it's easy to see why they didn't fit into the concept of that album.
Rare R&B: Jagged Edge "You Hurt Me" and "On My Way (After the Club)"
Here are two rare unreleased tracks from R&B group Jagged Edge. "You Hurt Me" is an uptempo track that leaked around the release of their "Jagged Edge" album. I like the song and feel it should have made the album. "On My Way (After the Club)" leaked soon after "Hard" was released; once again I feel the song should have made that album. Enjoy!
New R&B: Jagged Edge "Tip of My Tongue" and "Full Time Lover"
Here are two songs which are confirmed to be on Jagged Edge's upcoming seventh album titled "The Remedy." "Tip of My Tongue" is supposed to be the first single and it features Trina and Gucci Mane. I can't see either of these songs making a big impact for the group. In fact, I'm a bit disappointed in the direction they chose to go in here, rather than sticking with the slow jams they are famous for.
Classic R&B Song of the Day 2: Jagged Edge "I Gotta Be" (1997)
The second classic R&B song of the day is "I Gotta Be" by Jagged Edge from their debut album "A Jagged Era." Interestingly, there were two videos shot for this song; the second featured the original four members of Destiny's Child. The group is working on their 7th album titled "The Remedy" which will be released some time next year.
Classic R&B Song of the Day 1: 112 "Only You" Remix featuring the Notorious B.I.G. and Mase (1996)
"Only You" was the first single by R&B group 112 back in 1996. The song would peak at #3 on the billboard r&b charts and stands as one of the groups biggest songs. The group is currently working on their sixth album which is due for release sometime in 2010.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
New R&B: Static Major "Illusion"
"Illusion" is a recently surfaced song from the late Static Major. The song, which was written by Static, was eventually remade by his close friend Pleasure P and appeared on P's latest album. Before his passing, he was readying his solo debut to be called "Suppertime." With any luck, this album will eventually be released to honor Static's legacy.
Better R&B Group: 112 or Jagged Edge?
Vs.
Jagged Edge
Which is the better R&B Group?
Click below for group summaries.
112
Albums: 112 (1996), Room 112 (1998), Part III (2001), Hot & Wet (2003), Pleasure & Pain (2005).
Singles: "Only You," "Come See Me," "Cupid," "Love Me," "Anywhere," "Love You Like I Did," "Your Letter," "It's Over Now," "Peaches & Cream," "Dance With Me," "Na Na Na Na," "Hot & Wet," "U Already Know," "Right Here For U," "What If."
Jagged Edge
Albums: A Jagged Era (1998), J.E. Heartbreak (2000), Jagged Little Thrill (2001), Hard (2003), Jagged Edge (2006), Baby Makin Project (2007).
Singles: "The Way That You Talk," "Gotta Be," "Slow Motion," "Keys to the Range," "He Can't Love You," "Let's Get Married," "Promise," "Where the Party At?," "Goodbye," "I Got It," "Walked Outta Heaven," "What it's Like," "So Amazing," "Good Luck Charm," "Season's Change," "Stunnas," "Put a Little Umph in It."
Classic R&B Song of the Day: Playa "Cheers 2 U" (1998)
Louisville r&b trio Playa scored a top 10 single on the r&b charts with their 1998 song "Cheers 2 U." The group, with the help of the production of Timbaland, released only one album; "Cheers 2 U" in the same year. Ten years later, the group lost one of its members with the passing of Static Major, who was on the verge of a bright solo career.
Classic Hip Hop Song of the Day: Bone Thugs N Harmony "Ghetto Cowboy" (1998)
"Ghetto Cowboy" was a unique single by the Bone Thugs N Harmony where they portrayed cowboys and told a story of the old west. Somehow, the group was able to make this odd concept work as the song flowed very smoothly.
Monday, October 19, 2009
The Thin Line Between "Selling Out" and "Crossing Over"
There is no denying that at some point in their careers, all major hip hop artists would like to get paid. After all, this is their career, and they can't survive in this career without making money. But in order to do that, some artists must resort to what has become known as "selling out" or intentionally making a record that is more pop than anything else. However, sometimes it can be a bit confusing as to whether an artist is selling out, or simply making singles that cross over into the main stream unintentionally. Let's look at some examples.
Jay-Z - After his classic album "Reasonable Doubt," he followed up with "In My Lifetime Vol. 1" which undoubtedly contains many commercial singles. These include "The City is Mine," "I Know What Girls Like," and "Always be my Sunshine." In the years to come, he would also release "Hard Knock Life," "Big Pimpin," "Give it to Me," etc.
Nas - Following his classic debut "Illmatic," he released "It was Written" which contained commercial singles "The Message," "If I Ruled the World," and "Street Dreams." Some of his other songs also fit this description such as "Nastradamus," "You Owe Me," and "I Can."
Ja Rule - After a very gutter debut album, he began singing on every recording he got a chance to.
Big Pun - "Still Not a Player" became a huge crossover single, but was this really considered selling out?
Mobb Deep - Managed to alienate a lot of their hardcore fan base after releasing the single "Hey Luv" with 112 off of their "Infamy" album.
Fat Joe - I've already touched on him, and there is no denying he recruited whoever was hot at the moment to get on his latest single.
50 Cent - After dissing Ja Rule for singing, he ends up doing the same thing throughout his career.
JadaKiss - Making songs with the radio friendly Nate Dogg, Pharrell, Mariah Carey, Carl Thomas & Ne-Yo.
These are just some examples of the point I'm trying to get across. I'm not doing anything besides making observations on the choice of singles some artists have decided to make. Many of the songs mentioned above turned into major radio hits, but was it because of crossover appeal, or were these artists selling out?
Let me state as a disclaimer that I have nothing against artists striving for growth and trying to put money on the table to better themselves and feed their family. The purpose of this article is to debate whether certain artists intentionally sold out or whether the songs just become crossover hits on their own.
New R&B: JoJo "How You Did It"
Another day, another leaked song from JoJo. It could either be her whole album slowly leaking, or she decided to just scrap all of the songs she recorded and start from scratch. Only time will tell.
Classic R&B Song of the Day: Jon B. "Someone to Love" featuring Babyface (1995)
When Jon B. was discovered by Babyface and eventually released his solo album with his help, he quickly become known for being a white man singing in an r&b genre dominated by African Americans. However, songs like today's classic r&b song of the day "Someone to Love" quickly gave him credibility in this field. Jon released his fourth album "Helpless Romantic" last year and is still making music any color would be proud of.
Classic Hip Hop Song of the Day: Big L "Put it On" (1995)
Had he not passed away way too soon before his time, Big L might be one of the biggest names in hip hop today. In fact, I have him in my top five rappers of all time due to his lyricism and word play. Word is, he was set to sign with Jay-Z and Roc-A-Fella, which makes his passing in '99 even more of a tragedy.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
New R&B: Dirty Money "Love Come Down" Remix featuring Lloyd Banks
Normally I would stay away from posting anything involving Diddy, he has become incredibly annoying and corny in the past 10 years, but for some reason I can tolerate "Love Come Down" from his group Dirty Money. I find the song to be incredibly raw, with a great beat, but ironically I would actually enjoy it more without Diddy on the track. Overall, I'm not expecting much from this project.
New Hip Hop: Timbaland "Morning After Dark" featuring SoShy
Timbaland has always been known for his innovative style, and that is no less apparent on his latest single "Morning After Dark." This song is probably a little too outside the box for my taste, as I found the uptempo song to be plain weird although perfectly tailored for the clubs. I can't fault the man for the growth he is making though, as he will always be considered in the top 3 hip hop producers of all time.
Classic Hip Hop Song of the Day: Outkast "Rosa Parks" (1998)
Generating a lot of buzz due to its controversial name, "Rosa Parks" is one of the biggest hits by hip hop group Outkast and is today's hip hop song of the day. Although eventually a lawsuit brought forward by the prominent African American figure would be settled out of court, it didn't hinder Outkast as the album went on to go double platinum. Following the "Aquemini" album, the group would move to developing a new sound and were able to find success there as well, as they are recognized as one of the greatest hip hop groups of all time.
Classic R&B Song of the Day: Donell Jones "Knocks Me Off My Feet" (1996)
Today's R&B song of the day is "Knocks Me Off My Feet" by Donell Jones. Donell released this remake of the Stevie Wonder classic on his debut album "My Heart" in 1996. Being one of the greats of his own generation, I wouldn't be surprised if someone released a remake of a Donell Jones song years down the road.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
New Hip Hop: Redman "Coc Back" featuring Ready Roc
Here is a new single from hip hop veteran Redman called "Coc Back" which is expected to be the first single from his upcoming album "Reggie Noble "0" 9 1/2." The album is expected to be released in late 2009. The song is decent, but I can't see it doing much as a lead single.
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