New Joints: 112 "Forever" & "One More Try"

112 "Forever"

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112 "One More Try"

Man it's good to hear some new music from 112! Unfortunately, after listening to both of these songs, I can confirm they aren't new since they both include Slim. If you didn't hear the news recently, 112 has confirmed they are back in the studio as a group but Slim has declined to participate for unknown reasons. It's a shame too, because both of these songs sound really good to me. There's probably a good chance these are leftovers from their "Pleasure & Pain" album in 2005.

New Joint: Dwele "What's Not To Love"

Dwele "What's Not To Love"

I'm feelin this new song from Dwele, in my opinion this definitely has single potential! Right now he's preparing the follow up to his 2008 album "Sketches of a Man" which will be called W.W.W. (Wants World Women) and will be released in June.

Rare Gem: The Roots "You Got Me" featuring Jill Scott & Eve (Demo Version)

The Roots "You Got Me" featuring Jill Scott & Eve (Demo Version)

You heard the album version as today's Classic Vibe, now here is the "demo" version of the song which features vocals from Jill Scott instead of Erykah Badu. I put demo in parenthesis because this version was actually slated to appear on the album, until Erykah Badu was sent in to add more name power to the song. Which do you like more?

Classic Vibe: The Roots "You Got Me" featuring Erykah Badu & Eve (1999)

If I remember correctly, this was one of Eve's first appearances in the mainstream although she wasn't credited for the feature and didn't appear in the video. What's also interesting is, the chorus and bridge were written by fellow Philadelphia native Jill Scott who originally sang the vocals, but they were re-recorded by Erykah upon the label insisting the group needed a bigger name on the album's first single. I've always had a ton of respect for The Roots; instead of a typical rap group, most of the members actually play instruments and create real music.

Rare Gem: Justin Timberlake "Worthy"

Justin Timberlake "Worthy"

Don't hate me for this, but I'm actually a fan of Justin when he's showing his soulful side. I also can't deny it, I really liked his first album, especially because Timbaland and the Neptunes were all over the production, shaping into more of an urban album. "Worthy" is an unreleased track that was recorded for his debut album but didn't make the cut. I've always been a fan of the song, it was definitely "Worthy" of making the album.

Lost Soul: Nivea "Runaway" featuring Pusha T

Nivea "Runaway" featuring Pusha T

If you've read the blog before, then you know I love me some classic Neptunes production! This was from Nivea's debut album back in 2001. It should be noted that the album after many delays was finally released, but later ordered to be redone to include new tracks because of its poor performance. The version of this song that originally existed did not include a verse from Pusha T. Also of note, on the original album, a different version of her big hit "Don't Mess With My Man" featuring Jagged Edge was released and I actually preferred that to the video version.

Rare Gem: Carl Thomas "Our World" featuring Rell

Carl Thomas "Our World" featuring Rell

I really don't know anything of the origin of this song, but I'm really glad I found it (shout out to SoulClapMusic LLC for putting me on)! I'm always excited to hear collaborations like this between two very talented and soulful artists. The only thing I can say for sure about the track is that it popped up on Youtube a couple of years back, but has never been released officially.

Classic Vibe: Erykah Badu "Tyrone" (1997)

As we celebrate the release of her new album today, here is a Classic Vibe from Erykah Badu. While "Tyrone" might not be her biggest single, it is certainly one of the most recognizable ones from her due to its audacity. This was released as a single from her "Live" album which eventually would go double platinum on the strength of this radio hit. She was actually pregnant at the time of the recording of this "Live" album with Andre 3000's baby, and although there relationship would end sometime in the late 90's, we cannot confirm if this song was written about him!

New Video: Kelis "Acapella"

I'd like to give my opinion of the full video, but I was getting a seizure from all the flashing light going on between scenes! From the first minute or so I did watch, I can't say I'm surprised that Kelis has done something totally different than we've ever seen before in a video. She's always had a style of being totally "out there" and this video is no different. Her new album "Flesh Tone" will be out at some point later this year.

New Joint: Toni Braxton "Why Won't You Love Me"

Toni Braxton "Why Won't You Love Me"

To be honest, at this point I have no idea what to expect on Toni's upcoming "Pulse" album. We've heard so many songs leaked over the past few months, ranging from bad to good, and it's hard to predict what will be included. "Why Won't You Love Me" falls on the good end of the spectrum, and I hope to hear songs of this caliber on the album.

New Joints: Raheem DeVaughn "I'm Ill" Remix

Raheem DeVaughn "I'm Ill" Remix

Like he usually does with his mixtapes, Raheem puts his spin on this big hits currently on the radio. If you haven't heard it yet, his new album "The Love & War MasterPeace" is in stores now and I highly recommend it!

New Joint: Tank "Fight in the Name of Love" (Jennifer Hudson Demo)

Tank "Fight in the Name of Love" (Jennifer Hudson Demo)

Tank is one of those artists who just because he doesn't put out a record every year or two, that doesn't mean he isn't hard at work behind the scenes. In fact, he has written tracks for many big name artists that you may never have known about if you didn't take the time to read the liner notes. He's already one of the most well respected writers in r&b and getting bigger every day.

Classic Vibe: Jesse Powell "You" (1998)

I was talking to someone recently about r&b artists that basically disappeared and one name that came up was Jesse Powell. As a result, I thought I'd do some investigating by starting out with his biggest hit "You." He has released four albums to date, with the last coming in 2003, and his bio doesn't give any further clues about what he's been up to since then. I do know that after releasing "You" in 1998, none of his singles after that even managed to reach the BillBoard r&b Top 50. Unfortunately, looking at his release history, this is someone who the mainstream might consider to be a one hit wonder.

New Video: Erykah Badu "Window Seat"

Very interesting and shocking video for Erykah Badu's "Window Seat" single. You can tell she's really trying to make a statement with the video, and then speaks her two cents at the end to clarify her intentions. I enjoy when artists aren't afraid to express themselves and artistically display their feelings on things like Erykah has done here. "New Amerykah Part II: Return Of The Ankh" will be in stores March 30.

New Joint: Vivian Green "Too Intense"

Vivian Green "Too Intense"

This will appear on her new album "Beautiful" which will be in stores April 6th.

Classic Vibe: Kelly Rowland "Stole" (2002)

Have you ever really listened to the words in this song? It's really eerie and really puts things into perspective when you read in the papers the tragedies like these that occur all too often around the country. Kelly chose to record the song from a demo she heard in hopes that this song would inspire young people and create awareness. Since her departure from Destiny's Child, she has never really been able to come close to the success that fellow band mate Beyonce has achieved.

New Joint: Toni Braxton "You Got It"

Toni Braxton "You Got It"

With all of the songs that have come out from Toni Braxton recently, it's hard to really determine what will be on her new album "Pulse" and what won't. However, I can definitely say that this is one song that SHOULD end up on there. "Pulse" will be in stores May 4th.

New Joint: Tank "I Might Cry" & "I Might Cry" (Original Version)

Tank "I Might Cry"

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Tank "Might Cry" (Original Version)

I was almost positive I had heard a Tank song with this same title before...so I looked it up, and sure enough I had. He seems to have switched up the lyrics a bit on this version, and the beat is also different. I have included it here so you can compare both. His fourth album "Now or Never" is still scheduled for release later this year.

Rare Gem: Babyface "Every Time I Close My Eyes" Remix featuring Playa, Mariah Carey & Timbaland

Babyface "Every Time I Close My Eyes" Remix featuring Playa, Mariah Carey & Timbaland

Not nearly as good as the original in my opinion, but still worth a listen if you've never heard this rare version. This remix of the song was only included on the cd-single. It's cool to hear Timbaland's fellow Bassment members Playa harmonizing throughout the song.

Lost Soul: Next "Cozy"

Next "Cozy"

When Next came on the scene back in 1997, they brought a certain edginess with them to the r&b game, especially with the debut of their single "Too Close." Through most of their debut album, they sang about subject that was overly sexual and borderline raunchy at times. However, one song that really shined to me "Cozy" which was a feel good song about just kickin back and having a good time with a girl without the pressure of sex. It remains to be seen if the group will ever come back together to record a fourth album, but their first album "Rated Next" will always be a classic in my collection.

Classic Vibe: Missy Elliot "Beep Me 911" featuring 702 & Magoo

Missy Elliot - Beep me 911


I've always had a great deal of respect and admiration for Missy Elliot; she's never been afraid to try something new or been hesitant to come off looking straight up weird. In the process, many including myself would consider her a pioneer. Additionally, if you haven't followed her career closely, you might not have known she's also a very talented singer in addition to rapper; as evidenced in this song. This was the third single released from her debut album "Supa Dupa Fly" and although it wasn't one her biggest hits, it is a personal favorite of mine.

Lost Soul: Koffee Brown "Didn't Mean To Turn You On" featuring Duganz

Koffee Brown "Didn't Mean To Turn You On" featuring Duganz

Of the non-singles from their debut album "Mars/Venus," this was by far my favorite song from Koffee Brown. The song has a real laid back, feel good vibe to it that you can really get into when just cruisin around in the car. Just like other artists that were coming up on KayGee's label Divine Mill at the time, R.L. from Next had a hand in the success (although limited) of the group by writing their second single "Weekend Thing."

New Joint: Janet Jackson "Nothing" (Produced by Jermaine Dupri & Bryan Michael Cox)

Janet Jackson "Nothing"

Man she really sounds a lot like her brother Michael on this one, it's almost sad to listen to since he is no longer with us. I'm not sure if this has a place on the radio, but I'm really feeling this ballad which was produced by Jermaine Dupri and Bryan Michael Cox. The song is set to appear on the upcoming soundtrack to "Why Did I Get Married Too?" which she will also star in. The movie will be in theaters April 2nd.

Classic Vibe: Koffee Brown "After Party" (2001)

Every group has a different story about how they met and came together to start making music. For Koffee Brown, they were actually put together by Clive Davis (founder of J Records) who suggested that the duo would make a good group together. After their debut single "After Party" and first album, the group would fail to really make an impact. Vernell, the female in the group, is also known for adding her vocals to Case's "Touch Me, Tease Me" and Next's "Too Close." The group has been inactive since releasing their debut album "Mars/Venus."

New Joint: JoJo "Drop It"

JoJo "Drop It"

It's easy to forget that JoJo is only 19 since she's been around for years now. Coming into the game at the age of 14, she's also sung about subject matter well above hear years. That's why when I listen to a song like this and she talks a dude sitting at the bar, it makes me wonder since she's not even old enough to go into a bar! I can't deny her talent though, her voice has always been on point.

New Joint: Toni Braxton "Lookin At Me" featuring Sean Paul

Toni Braxton "Lookin At Me" featuring Sean Paul

For some reason when I read the title of the track and the feature, I immediately thought of Beyonce's duet with Sean Paul from years back "Baby Boy." Sean Paul has fallen off A LOT since then when he was basically on top of the world and every song he touched turned to gold. In terms of this song, it doesn't quite live up to "Baby Boy," but it's a cool song, a little too pop for my liking.

Classic Vibe: 2Pac "I Aint Mad At Cha" featuring Danny Boy (1996)

Man, what would 2Pac be thinking if he were around today to see what hip hop has turned into? Would he have allowed this to happen if he was still here, or would he have joined in and used gimmicks like auto-tune himself? Although we will never know the answer, we do know that 2Pac will always be considered a legend and pioneer in hip hop. As the story goes, "I Aint Mad At Cha" was written the day 2Pac was released from prison as a tribute to his friends he knew growing up. Although the song was released nearly a year before he passed away, it wasn't until shortly after he died that the video made its debut.

New Joint: Erykah Badu "Turn Me Away (Get Munny)"

Erykah Badu "Turn Me Away (Get Munny)"

I'm really not sure what to make of this song after one listen. On the one hand, is it supposed to be a cover of the original song "Can't Turn Me Away" by Sylvia Striplin? On the other hand, she added in the "Get Money" part from the song done by Junior Mafia. That's what happens sometimes when you hear a new song of this sort, it's really not fair to judge unless you hear what the artist was going for with it. I will say though, I'm intrigued.

New Joint: Ne-Yo "Forbidden Fruit" (Produced by Stargate)

Ne-Yo "Forbidden Fruit" (Produced by Stargate)

How is it going to be possible for Ne-Yo to choose which songs will appear on his new album? When you have so many songs, it must make the selection process pain staking! From his words though, it seems he plans to record all new songs after he gets off of his current tour, so I guess that will make the process a little easier. I like this new one produced by Stargate, sounds good to me.

New Joint: R.L. "Ain't No Other"

R.L. "Ain't No Other"

Move over Ne-Yo & Johnta Austin, a new contender has emerged in the battle to see who can put out the most demo tracks. Although when you think of prominent songwriters, R.L.'s name might not come directly to mind, he's quietly proven over the years he needs to be in the conversation. As he mentioned to me in the interview, you have to remember that when you see an R.L. song leak, there is a very good chance it's a demo for another singer; possibly even a pop group. I'm still waiting for his new album "LoveMusic" to come out later this year.

New Joint (Slam Pick): Monica "Superman"

Monica "Superman"

This is my pick of the non-singles as my favorite song from Monica's new album "Still Standing." Heck, if you had told me this song was made in the mid-90s, I would believe you! It has that vintage sound, which Monica was going for on the album, and she definitely achieved it on this song.

Album Release Reminder: TQ "Kind of Blue"

Here is a message from TQ on the album:

The wait is over!!!!! Kind of Blue is on sale WORLDWIDE!!!!! Get it from ur favorite retailer! Best Buy, Fye, iTunes, Amazon, YOU NAME IT!!!! Get it! It's good!!!!

If by chance u can't find the record I can fix that too...

Order your personalized, Autographed, Limited Edition of "Kind of Blue" and have it delivered to your door when u want it! As fast as 2 days to anywhere in the world! This version has 2 new songs, 2 new Remixes, and my rendition of Michael Jackson's "Dirty Diana"... This version is a MUST HAVE! Trust me!

Tracklisting:

1. Pop Pop Featuring Mikkey Halsted
2. Street Dreams Featuring At Will
3. Electronic BandMan RMX
4. Centerfold Rock RMX
5. Kind Of Blue
6. Hollywood
7. Valentines Day
8. U.
9. The Fastlane Featuring Glasses Malone
10. Frosty
11. Blue Lites
12. Trouble
13. Dirty Diana Tribute To Michael Jackson
14. Bad Girl Featuring Ying Yang Twins
15. Wett
16. 2Nite
17. Mamacita
18. Cry
19. Unbelievable


Click Here to Purchase

Classic Vibe: Marc Nelson "15 Minutes" (1999)

Did You Know: Coming out of Philly, Marc Nelson was an original member of Boyz II Men but left the group prior to the group's first album to pursue his solo career? Although he missed out on the opportunity to be in one of the best groups of all time, he did find a great deal of success in the group Az Yet. Also a very accomplished writer, he has written for stars such as Toni Braxton, Brandy, Tamia, Jon B., and Tyrese. "15 Minutes" would on to be his most successful solo single and appeared on his sophomore solo album "Chocolate Mood" in 1999.

New Joints: Dru Hill "Back to the Future" & "Rule the World" & "The End"

Dru Hill "Back to the Future"

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Dru Hill "Rule the World"

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Dru Hill "The End"

Well, they are getting closer! I hadn't been overly impressed with all of the leaks I'd heard from the group over the past few weeks, but here are some I could get into. "Back to the Future" is a nice ballad with what sounds like Jazz on the lead vocals. Next, they do a cover of Tears for Fears "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" and put a really interesting spin on it, but it sounds cool. Finally, "The End" is another nice track. Their album "InDRUpendance Day" is due in stores in June.

New Joint: Ne-Yo "When You're Low"

Ne-Yo "When You're Low"

Pretty much business as usual for Ne-Yo, but nothing spectacular on this one. On a side note, what do you think of Ne-Yo as a writer? Do you have him in your top five for r&b?

New Joints: Monica "Lesson Learned" & "All I Know"

Monica "Lesson Learned"

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Monica "All I Know"

Two bonus tracks from her "Still Standing" album in stores today. The songs are nice to listen to, but nothing special. With each song I hear, it becomes more evident that Monica has made a huge step back in the right direction for her musical career, and you can read more about that when I write the full review.

Classic Vibe: Hi-Five "I Like The Way (The Kissing Game)" (1991)

As I continue through a time when New Jack Swing ruled in r&b, here is a number one hit from Hi-Five. Although just teenagers when they were signed to Jive in the early 90's, their debut album went platinum under the guidance of legend Teddy Riley. After releasing three albums, the group disbanded and would not reunite until 2005 with their album "The Return." Tragedy struck the next year when lead singer Tony Thompson passed away from an accidental drug overdose.

New Joints: Brandy "Believer" & "Who's The Loser Now" (Produced by Timbaland)

Brandy "Believer"

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Brandy "Who's The Loser Now"

Let's just call this "Brandy Day" with all of these new songs we are getting from her on this joyous day. What's even better is, Timbaland produced both of these. They are also from the 2008 "Human" album sessions as leftovers. I really like Brandy and Timbaland working together; ever since her "Afrodisiac" album in 2004 I've been a big fan of them collaborating.

Lost Souls: Brandy "Fall" featuring Natasha Bedingfield & Brandy "Fall" (Album Version)

Brandy "Fall" featuring Natasha Bedingfield

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Brandy "Fall" (Album Version)

This was probably already my favorite song on Brandy's 2008 "Human" album, but now the song just got even better. I can't confirm when this duet with Natasha Bedingfield was recorded, but it would have been nice to hear this version appear on the album.

New Joint: Toni Braxton "No Way" (Produced by The Underdogs)

Toni Braxton "No Way" (Produced by The Underdogs)

After many delays, her sixth studio album "Pulse" will be released May 4th. Although many of her songs have leaked over the past few months, she has confirmed that some of those will also appear on the album (similar to the Usher situation). Additionally, videos for "Hands Tied" and "Make My Heart" were shot earlier this month and should be released sometime soon.

New Joint: Brandy "Home" (Produced by Timbaland)

Brandy "Home" (Produced by Timbaland)

I mentioned earlier that Brandy would be working with Timbaland on her new album, where here is a product of that collaboration that very well may be for her new album. Brandy also rapped on Timaland's album under the alias Bran'Nu, so I'm curious to see if she tries anything like that on her upcoming album.

New Joint: Brandy "Today" (Produced by Darkchild)

Brandy "Today"

Here is a new song from Brandy. Currently, she is working on her new reality show with her brother called "Brandy and Ray-J: A Family Business" which will premier April 11th. The show will document Brandy working on her upcoming album in the studio with producers such as Timbaland and Darkchild. If you remember, this isn't the first time Brandy has dabbled in reality television; her first time around was back in 2002 when she had "Special Delivery" which documented the birth of her first child.

Classic Vibe: Ralph Tresvant "Sensitivity" (1990)

Although he had most of his success while part of the group New Edition, Ralph Tresvant also managed to score a number one hit of his own with "Sensitivity." After each of the members would branch off from the group and do projects of their own in the early 90's, they released "Home Again" in 1996 which reached number 1 on the Billboard Charts. Recently, Ralph appeared in the file "Mama, I Want to Sing!" which also featured Ciara as his daughter.

Rare Gems: Rell "Say It Aint So" & Musiq Soulchild "Say It Aint So"

Rell "Say It Aint So"

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Musiq Soulchild "Say It Aint So"

As I brought to the attention of Rell in the interview, Musiq at some point re-recorded his song "Say It Aint So." After with speaking with Rell, I'm able to put the pieces together and understand what really happened. Since the song was written by Mike City, he probably gave it to Musiq after it was obvious that Rell's "The Remedy" album was not going to release. Both are good in my opinion, but just imagine if we could hear a duet between these two at some point? Wow!

New Joint: Tyrese "Like I Used To" featuring Sean Garrett

Tyrese "Like I Used To" featuring Sean Garrett

This sounds unfinished, but here is a new duet between super movie star Tyrese and super producer Sean Garrett. I'm not sure if Tyrese has any plans to release a new album soon, or if he will be singing or rapping on it if he does, but he's slated to appear in the new Transformers 3 movie that is currently in pre-production. Recently, he also appeared in the video for Lady Gaga's "Telephone" as Beyonce's boyfriend.

Classic Vibe: Portrait "Here We Go Again" (1992)

Portrait - Here We Go Again


I really don't know much about the group Portrait since after their self titled debut album in 1992, featuring minor hits "Here We Go Again" and "Honey Dip," they pretty much faded from sight. They came up during the New Jack Swing Era of r&b but failed to achieve the success of some of their colleagues. Fun Fact: They appeared on an episode of a personal favorite show of mine "Family Matters" to perform "Here We Go Again."

New Joint: Keith Sweat "Test Drive" featuring Joe

Keith Sweat "Test Drive" featuring Joe

Nothing like two r&b veterans (possibly even legends) coming together and making some solid music. Equally exciting is the fact that he has joined Kedar Entertainment who is slowly establishing a very solid roster of 90's r&b artists like Dru Hill, Joe and Chico DeBarge. Although it's not known, this is probably a project from his first project on the label.

New Joint: Kelly Rowland "Smooches" (Produced by Bangledesh)

Kelly Rowland "Smooches" (Produced by Bangledesh)

Sorry, just not feeling this song at all. I really liked some songs from her debut album "Simply Deep," she really brought some soul at times on this album, but this is nowhere close to that. Maybe she's just going for more of a pop radio friendly sound. Her third album currently doesn't have a release date but is due for some time in 2010.

YouKnowIGotSoul Interview With Rell

YouKnowIGotSoul caught up with Rell to talk about his transition from singing to writing, his years on Roc-A-Fella, how he expresses his feeling on his songs, and Kanye West making a fool of himself over the "Real Love" video shoot.



Rell Interview Part 1 (Signing with Roc-A-Fella, Unreleased albums, "The Remedy" album)



Rell Interview Part 2 (Writing for Usher, Issues Men Face, Respecting the Industry)



Rell Interview Part 3 (Working with Static Major, The Breakup of Roc-A-Fella)



Rell Interview Part 4 (Talks about some of his songs, Shooting the video for "Real Love")

Songs Referenced in Interview

Rell"Let Me Show You"

Rell "Real Love" featuring Kanye West & Consequence

Rell "It's Obvious" featuring Jay-Z

Classic Vibe: Cameo "Candy" (1987)

"Candy" was a hit single by Cameo that reached number one on the Billboard r&b charts back in 1987. The song has been sampled numerous times over the years, including: Will Smith "Candy," 2Pac "All About U," and Mariah Carey "Loverboy." What's interesting about the group is, they initially started out as a 13 man group which is pretty much unheard of in this day and age. Believe it or not, the group still actively tours with at least five of their original members.

New Joint: Monica "Mirror" (Produced by Jim Jonsin)

Monica "Mirror"

This is rumored to be the second single from her upcoming "Still Standing" album.

New Joint: Babyface "Flashback" (Produced by Stargate)

Babyface "Flashback" (Produced by Stargate)

I'm just going to go out on a limb and predict this is a demo song for someone else. I just don't feel like this Stargate produced track is really the type of song we would expect from Babyface at this point in his career. Additionally, with no scheduled album in site, that just further increases the odds that he wrote it for another singer.

New Video: Robin Thicke "RollaCoasta" featuring Estelle

Well, this surely wouldn't have been my first choice as the next single ("2 Luv Birds"), but it also wouldn't have been my last ("Shakin' It for Daddy"), so I will say this is a safe choice for a release. However, since the album hasn't even reached gold yet, I don't think this is the type of song needed to push it in the right direction, but I've been wrong before. As you may have read in my review of the album, I wasn't very happy with the direction he chose to go in. The fact that he was trying for more of a pop sound doesn't mean I have to praise him for achieving that.

New Joint: Tank "Do U Remember" (Produced by Tim & Bob)

Tank "Do U Remember" (Produced by Tim & Bob)

As a singer, songwriter, and producer, Tank is one of those artists who is always hard at work on somebody's project; which most of the time these days is probably not his own. I'm not sure where this new song is meant to end up, but I'm loving this on, it's soooo smooth. In my opinion, this could be single material for his new album. His upcoming album has been renamed "Now or Never" from "Sex, Love and Pain II: The All Night Experience" and currently still has a tentative release date for later this year.

Classic Vibe: Tweet "Oops (Oh My)" featuring Missy Elliot (2001)

Man, I hadn't listened to this song in awhile, and I just remembered how sick Timbaland's production was on track(And how sick his production USED to be for that matter)!! Even though the lyrics to the song were very risky for a debut single, the song ended up being very successful, reaching number one on the Billboard Hip Hop/R&B charts, her most successful single to date. The rest of her career hasn't quite lived up to the results she achieved early on, but I've always felt she was one of the more underrated singers out there. Her new album "Love, Tweet" will be released sometime later this year.

Classic Vibe: R. Kelly "(You To Be) Be Happy" featuring the Notorious B.I.G. (1995)

I was wondering where that beat sounded familiar from; it's the exact same beat that Faith Evans used in her "You Used to Love Me" single. I'm not sure if this is true or not, but a user on Youtube made comments basically saying that R. Kelly heard the track and HAD to have it even though Faith was going to put it on her album. As the story goes, the Notorious B.I.G. was in the studio with Faith and ended up going to put his vocals on the track for Kelly. It doesn't seem too far fetched to me. Although this song had single potential, the use of the same beat was probably the only thing that stopped them from releasing it.

Technical Difficulties (Have Been Resolved)

Thanks for being patient, everything should now be fixed.

Rare Gems: 4Mula (Carl Thomas' Former Group) "Pass It Over" & "Moonlighting"

4Mula "Pass It Over"

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4Mula "Moonlighting"

I don't know much about this group except Carl Thomas was originally part of it during the early '90s. The group disbanded before releasing an album, but did release the single "Pass It Over." Props to SoulClapMusic LLC for putting me onto this group, I had never heard of it before.

Rare Gems: Aaries "All I Ever" & "Your Woman"

Aaries "All I Ever"

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Aaries "Your Woman"

I mentioned I was going to feature this group and a couple of their unreleased singles, so here they are. The group came up out of Philadelphia and eventually branched on with Musiq and got a chance to sing back up for him on tour. The group eventually went on to sign with Atlantic Records and prepared their debut album "Always Remember." Unfortunately, the debut album never released, but we are fortunate enough to hear a couple of unreleased tracks that were expected to appear on the album. The group also collaborated with Musiq on another song I love, "Newness" from his sophomore album.

YouKnowIGotSoul Interview With G. No aka "The Latin Bird"

YouKnowIGotSoul caught up with G. No "The Latin Bird" to talk about being signed to Smokey E. Digglera's label, singing in four different languages, the universal power of new jack swing and r&b music and the genre he's created of latin r&b.




YouKnowIGotSoul: From Reading your bio, you have roots in Spanish & Italian, but are a French singer. How many languages can you speak, and how many languages do you sing in?

G-No: That's right, my mother is from Barcelona, my father is from Gioia Del Colle, Italia like Sylvester Stallone *Laughs* and I was born in Paris (France). I speak French, Spanish, English and I understand Italian. My next album includes these 4th languages.

YouKnowIGotSoul: When did you first realize you wanted to become a singer for a career?

G-No: I can tell you exactly when, in 1993, because that's when I saw for the first time on MTV, I had cable that year, all these new jack singers. It was amazing to see hip hop people singing and not rapping. I wanted to be the first French new jack singer. I had a trio called Safyr, we were imitating H-Town, Jodeci...

YouKnowIGotSoul: What is the r&b scene like in France, and what made you decide to start singing in this genre of music?

G-No: There are many French rnb singers but it's teenager music. I've hosted a DVD in 2004 for Warner Music called "RnB Invasion,” you can see all the main actors of this genre in it. I decided to sing rnb in French because at the time no one was doing it! I've never been to church to sing gospel, so I had to work much more than any other typical rnb singer.

YouKnowIGotSoul: In terms of singing and writing music, where do you say you draw most of your inspiration from?

G-No: I'm more and more focused on my true life when it's time to write lyrics. I've never understood how singers can sing words they're not living.

YouKnowIGotSoul: Where does your name “The Latin Bird” come from and what does it mean to you?

G-No: Well G.No is short for GardeliNo, it means a bird in Italian. My father gave me that name one day because with my pento in my hair, De Niro style, I was looking like a wet bird. *Laughs* Seriously, I'm really feeling like a bird in a cage, I sing all day and I'm trying to escape, by that I mean to reach Libertad. And I'm also Latin, but not Latino.

YouKnowIGotSoul: Eventually, you would sign with Smoke E. Digglera’s label Bittersweet LLC. How were you discovered by Smokey and how did he sign you to his label?

G-No: Well I was writing a book about black music, which will be released in 2011. In 2005 just after the release of my first album "Evazion,” and MySpace was the shit, I saw in a forum called http://www.facebook.com/l/87f41;rnbworldmusic.com that the members of my favorite rnb group ever Playa had a page. I first called Smokey for a phone interview telling him I would love to work with him. And some weeks later, I sent my song "Senorita Sensual" to my mailing list. Smoke replied saying "I LOVE it" and wanted to do a remix of that song. I was in my room, alone, and damn, I couldn't believe one of my idols was loving my music! The other members of my group Safyr had given up music and my album was not selling that much, but that special day I finally had a reward for all these years. So he told me he wanted to work with me, I went to Louisville Kentucky in September 2006 for a test and he signed me to his label. The rest is in Youtube and in the DVD "From Paris 2 Louisville." That release is coming soon, including 45 minutes of interviews, rare footage, etc.

YouKnowIGotSoul: Please tell me a little bit about working with Smoke as an artist, and how he has influenced you.

G-No: In 2006, when I met him, I had a precise vision of my music: I wanted to mix my Latin roots and true rnb, but technically I hadn't got the skills to do it! Smoke is, with the late Dino Conner, Aaron Hall or Gary Jenkins, one of the most incredible singers I know. I had no choice: I had to work WAY more to be able to sing the songs he gave me. The way he harmonizes is true inspiration. When we were recording the chorus of "Run 2 U,” he told me "Feel free, just put all the notes that fit, that's how I do, it can be 4, 6 or 12 harmonies, no matter!" Listen to the chorus of tracks like "Dangerous" of Dalvin Degrate and the album "The Show, The After Party, The Hotel" by Jodeci, you will recognize the voice of someone not mentioned in the credits. Smoke is one of the best and he's bringing the Jodeci/Playa vibe back; that's why I'm happy to work with him. A track like "Someone 2 Luv Me" is Latin & Blues: harmonies and music are like Jodeci, and I'm bringing the Latin vibe. And now, four years later, I know how to harmonize!

YouKnowIGotSoul: I’ve seen some Youtube videos of you with Smoke in the studio singing, particularly Smoke singing his song “Thru It All” and you singing backup. It looks like you guys have a lot of fun with this. Tell me about these videos and experiences.

G-No: What you see on Youtube was at 3 or 5 in the morning, after some bottles of Hennessy, that's why I'm sometimes flat *Laughs* It was an extraordinary experience, we were like rock stars singing all day, recording. One of my best memories was when I sang “Cheers 2 U” with him. I was tired because I couldn't sleep with the jet lag, but I had to sing! And I'm someone who never gives up, I recorded most of our songs there very quickly. The DVD is the full story, if you feel what we lived there, cop that documentary right now!

YouKnowIGotSoul: What is it like being signed to a record label based out of the United States, but being located over in France? What are the major challenges?

G-No: With the internet, Facebook, or Skype, it's like there is no frontiers so we speak very easily about our projects and I have Pro Tools at home to record the songs. The only location we gotta be today is in the social networks, that's where millions of people and potential fans are all day. But we're trying to find shows together. I really wanna tour. If you wanna book us, conact contact@gardelino.com

YouKnowIGotSoul: I’ve heard songs of yours in various different languages. Do you have plans to concentrate on singing in one language in the future?

G-No: No I'm loving so much to be able to touch people from everywhere that I won't stop. I've got people loving my music in Australia, Spain, USA, South America, Asia, etc. To sing in different languages is a true power to touch people. I'm choosing Spanish for club songs and French for sad songs. That's just how I feel it.

YouKnowIGotSoul: I believe that your style of music, which I would call latin r&b, is definitely something unique in the industry today. Comment on what it’s like pretty much being in a genre of your own.

G-No: Well, it came naturally to me. I didn't say "I'm gonna create a genre" but my origins mixed with the music I love gave Latin & Blues, or Latin and Rhythm & Blues. Tony Sunshine and some new Spanish singers are making rnb in Spanish now, but I'm the only one to mix the Playa sound and Latin roots.

YouKnowIGotSoul: I heard the tribute you did to Static Major with your version of “Ride Till The Wheels Fall Off.” Did you have an opportunity to meet and work with Static Major?

G-No: No, I didn’t meet Static. But I've made an interview through MySpace back in 2005 that I will publish in my black music book. And Smoke gave me a Playa song includes a Static verse that I recorded, it's in my Mac but I can't release it just yet!

YouKnowIGotSoul: What made you decide to do this tribute to Static?

G-No: In 2010 many people are still Static fans. But who was a Static fan in ‘95? Me! *Laughs* When I heard his rap in "Gin & Juice" with Devante I said damn, who's that cat? And then when I realized it was the same Static in Playa in ‘98 with this soulful voice, I was truly impressed. My tribute to Static is like a tribute to the Jodeci era. He confessed to me in that interview that "Da Bassment was like Motown in a whole new level". He was right, rnb became number one on the pop charts with Aaliyah and Timbaland. I would like people to know who the creators of the rnb we know are: Devante Swing, Smokey and Static among others. All the singers I've had the chance to talk to, from TQ to Day26, know who they are and they're fans of their work. And the second reason I'm singing a tribute is because he was the brother of my brother Smoke, and I'm trying, my way, to keep the legacy of Playa alive.

YouKnowIGotSoul: Tell me about the Iphone application you recently released. How were you able to create this and what can fans get by using it?

G-No: Well I'm a web 2.0 expert. *Laughs* Web design is my second passion and every day I find new tools to promote my music. This application is amazing for me to reach people all day through their IPhone. You can listen to some of my music, check my twitter account, photos and videos. It's free, so get it now in the iTunes Store: search for "g.no" or "latin bird". Leave me a comment in my Fan Page at http://www.facebook.com/gnolatinbird

YouKnowIGotSoul: Tell me what projects you are currently working on and what we can expect from you in the near future.

G-No: Well 2010 is a big year...I'll be releasing three albums. The first one is "Latin & Blues,” and the album made with Smoke including productions by Key Beats, who produced Aaliyah’s "Rock the Boat,” Destiny's Child’s "Independent Woman,” and many more. The "Latin & Blues remixes" is a nine song album including remixes of famous rnb songs. And finally, I will release my French acoustic album at the end of the year "Le Soulitaire.” Right now, I'm working with the guitarist and producer of R.Kelly and I've just made a duet with one of the best rappers in the world. Here’s a clue: he made duets with 2Pac and Biggie, and now me *Laughs*

YouKnowIGotSoul: Is there anything else you’d like the fans to know?

G-No: I thank all my Facebook friends and fans for their kind messages. I'm just trying to be me through my music. I'm a believer and a fighter; I won't stop until I die. And to all the haters that are trying to ignore my music: you know you just can't ignore me! Study me...

Rendez-vous in my website now: http://www.facebook.com/l/87f41;gnolatinbird.com, enjoy the ride!

Classic Vibe: Musiq Soulchild "Girl Next Door" featuring Aaries (2000)

Although this was the least successful single from Musiq's debut album (even though I think this song is wayyyyyy better than "Sunny (Just Friends)" but that's another story), there is a method to my madness here. This song was also the introduction of the group Aaries who Musiq would go on to collaborate with multiple times early in his career. Although we didn't get to hear much from them, I'll be posting a couple of their unreleased singles later in the day.

Rare Gem: Playa "Ride 4 Me"

Playa "Ride 4 Me"

Another song that was mentioned in the interview with Digital Black. What's interesting are the comments Black made about Usher hearing this song and possibly stealing the idea to make the song "I Need a Girl." Whether that's true or not, it's hard to really say and probably will never be known for sure, but it's interesting to think about. What do you think?

Rare Gem: Playa "Gravy Train"

Playa "Gravy Train"

This is one of the songs I asked about in the interview with Digital Black. It was originally supposed to appear on Playa's second album "Throwback Legends" which has never been released. As you can hear, it is a big change from the sound that Playa came out with on their debut album. After having a chance to hear most of the songs that would have appeared on that sophomore album, I can honestly say a few songs like this meshed well with the soulful sound we know from Playa. I will also say, there were none and still aren't any r&b groups that could get creative on a track like this.

YouKnowIGotSoul Interview With Digital Black from Playa

YouKnowIGotSoul in conjunction with StaticIsMusic and Tim Barnett caught up with Digital Black from Playa to talk about what he's been up to lately, his time spent in the group Playa, what it was like working with Static, and if there will ever be another Playa album.



Digital Black Interview Part 1 (What's he's been up to, Memories of Da Bassment, Thoughts on a 2nd Playa album)



Digital Black Interview Part 2 (What led to the downfall of Playa, Meetings with Def Jam, Memories of time in the group)



Digital Black Interview Part 3 (Favorite Playa songs, Memories of Static, Static's Legacy)

Songs Referenced in Interview

Digital Black featuring Static "Halfway"

Playa "Gravy Train"

Playa "Ride 4 Me"

Classic Vibe: Tyrese "How You Gonna Act Like That" (2002)

When I read that this song was Tyrese's biggest hit to date according to the Billboard Charts, I was a little surprised. That's not a knock to this song at all but more of a testament to how much I like "Sweet Lady" and "Lately" off of his debut album. It should come as no surprise that as the years have gone by, he's focused more on his acting career than his singing career. After all, he took the opposite path of most artists today, he made the move to music after being an actor first.

Lost Soul: Rell "It's Obvious" featuring Jay-Z

Rell "It's Obvious" featuring Jay-Z

If you are familiar with Rell's career, then you probably realized this single he released in 2003 was a marked departure from the soulful sound we were used to hearing from him. In fact, he had some interesting things to say about the song when I interviewed him including he refused to shoot a video for the song since he would have felt pressure to do more songs like this in the future. It just goes to show you, there are crazy things that go on behind the scenes in the industry that the average fan is oblivious to. Although the song might not be typical Rell, the Timbaland produced and Static penned track is still a banger.

New Joint: Jagged Edge "Lay You Down"

Jagged Edge "Lay You Down"

Their new album "The Remedy" will be in stores in May.

Classic Vibe: Ideal "Whatever" featuring Lil' Mo (2000)

Hear those ad-libs in the background? If you can't recognize the voice, that is R.L. from Next. Besides being the front man of Next and launching his own solo career, he also did his part in writing for up and coming artists (See Jaheim). Although Ideal never really blew up like they could have, I don't think it's fair to fault R.L. for this. This catchy uptempo jam was the second single from their debut and only album which was self titled. You may also remember their biggest hit "Get Gone," but I was never really a fan of that one.