Lost Soul: Usher "Something Special"

Usher "Something Special"

Even though it sold platinum, to many fans "Here I Stand" will be considered a flop for the fact that it didn't live up to it's predecessor, the epic "Confessions" album. I'll take the middle ground; I wouldn't consider it a flop but I also won't go as far as to say it's a great album. In any case, here's a personal favorite from that album mainly for the fact he brought the soul on it.

New Joint: Raheem DeVaughn "I Would Die 4 U" (Prince Remake)

Raheem DeVaughn "I Would Die 4 U" (Prince Remake)

Songs like this show just how eclectic of an artist Raheem really is. Singing a song that released when he was just a youngster, he really puts a nice spin on it. After hearing his mixtapes, I think it's pretty safe to say he's mastered the art of how to tastefully remake a song and have it come out sounding right. Big shout out to Syreta for coming through with this one!

Lost Soul: Cheri Dennis "Showdown"

Cheri Dennis "Showdown"

After paying her dues for nearly a decade on the Bad Boy roster, Cheri Dennis finally got to release her debut album "In and Out of Love" a few years back. Even though I didn't have high expectations going in, I still gave it a listen and it was pretty much what I expected. Here's a song that stood out to me the most though. This one still gets spins on my Ipod to this day.

New Joint: Jazmine Sullivan "Holding You Down"

Jazmine Sullivan "Holding You Down"

Don't get too excited about the thought of a new Jazmine Sullivan song, because for all intensive purposes this is just a glorified freestyle. Still nice to hear her showcasing her voice though. Bonus points to anyone who can name the songs sampled here!

Lost Soul: Tweet "Taxi"

Tweet "Taxi"

If you are anything like me, then you get so into music that songs become tied up in memories and forever stick with you every time you hear them. In fact, it's an amazing thing and so powerful when you think about it. The reason I bring that up is because this is one of the many of those songs for me. No matter where I'm at, what I'm doing, or how many years have passed, I'm brought back to a point in time in my life I will never forget when I hear this song again.

Lost Soul: Tweet "Smoking Cigarettes"

Tweet "Smoking Cigarettes"

One of the best songs from Tweet's highly underrated debut album "Southern Hummingbird" in 2001. This is a personal favorite of my dude Buddha, big shout out to him!

New Joint: Robin Thicke "My Life"

Robin Thicke "My Life"

Man I really enjoy it when Robin actually sings without the falsetto, just like he's doing here! This song is hot, and I have no idea where it's from. I could be mistaken, but I think he also busts into a little of Stevie Wonder's "Cherie Amor" in the bridge. Check this one out, you won't be disappointed!

New Joint: G-Martin "You"

G-Martin "You"

I hope you didn't shy away from listening to this song just because you've never heard of the singer, but he definitely has soul!! In fact, I'm really loving song right now; another big shout out to a reader for putting me on. I can't wait to hear more from G-Martin!

Classic Vibe: Prophet Jones "Lifetime" (2001)

I haven't heard much of this group since I saw this video back in the day, I guess they never blew up. I liked this song, and there was a couple of other joints on that album I was feeling.

Lost Soul: Prophet Jones "You Can't"

Prophet Jones "You Can't"

This is by far my favorite song from Prophet Jones' self titled debut (and only) album.

New Joint: John Legend "Our Generation" (Produced by The Roots)

John Legend "Our Generation" (Produced by The Roots)

If you've been wondering the reason behind all of the recent frequent collaborations between John Legend and the Roots, it's because they are producing his upcoming album "Wake Up Sessions." If you've been under a rock, The Roots are actual musicians as opposed to most other rap groups. This song samples the classic "Our Generation" by Ernie Hines which was also sampled by Pete Rock & CL Smooth.

New Joints: Kelly Rowland "Each Other" & Rico Love "Each Other" (Demo) (Produced by David Guetta)

Kelly Rowland "Each Other"

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Rico Love "Each Other" (Demo)

No offense to all parties involved, but I'm not really feeling this whole David Guetta euro pop sound that's currently being infused into urban music. Presumably, this is from her upcoming album, and you can also hear the demo version that Rico recorded for her.

New Joint: Nanaushika "Stuck On You"

Nanaushika "Stuck On You"

Props to one of my readers for putting me on to Nanaushika, I had never heard her music before, but she definitely has soul! I tried to read up on her to find out more, but information is hard to find. Maybe that certain reader can fill us all in!

Classic Vibe: Ideal "Creep Inn" (2000)

Of course, samples the Michael Jackson classic "This Place Hotel."

New Joint: Stefon4U - "Teachers Pet" featuring Khleo

Here is the new single from the up-and-coming artist Stefon Washington, better known by his stage name Stefon4U. The song has a nice vibe to it and resembles some of the work done by the production team The Underdogs during 2003-2006. Think of songs like "How You Gonna Act Like That" by Tyrese and "Naked" by Marques Houston and you'll know what I mean. Watch out for Stefon4U as he has the potential to be in the game for a while.

Rare Gem: Vinia Mojica "Sands of Time"

Vinia Mojica "Sands of Time"

This was the B-Side of her then lead single "Guilt Junkie" which was supposed to be off of her debut album in 2003. Unfortunately, that album never released and to date she has never released an album of her own. Over the years, she has collaborated with the likes of A Tribe Called Quest, Common, Mos Def, De La Soul and Heavy D. I like this song a lot though even if it sounds unfinished; so soothing.

New Joint: Phil Ade "Out Your Clothes" featuring Raheem DeVaughn

Phil Ade "Out Your Clothes" featuring Raheem DeVaughn

Phil Ade is the up and coming protege of Raheem DeVaughn and is the first artist signed to his independent record label 368 Music Group. Sure enough, Raheem mentioned him many times in the interview we did a few months back. Currently, Phil is working on his "Starting on JV" mixtape which will drop July 10th. This song will be included on that mixtape.

New Joint: Tamieka "Half A Day" featuring Static Major

Tamieka "Half A Day" featuring Static Major

If you enjoyed the Tamieka song that I posted last week, then chances are you will enjoy this one as well. A little known talent, she definitely deserves more respect than she is currently getting.

Classic Vibe: Case "Touch Me, Tease Me" featuring Mary J. Blige & Foxy Brown (1996)

When I think about this one, this song is one of those songs you hear now and go, "awww man that was my jam back in the day!!"

Coming Soon: An Interview With Case

I'm fortunate enough to have another opportunity to talk to Case and this time will be touching on his recently release album "Here, My Love." It was a pleasure speaking with him the first time, and I expect no different this time around. Stay tuned for that!

Lost Soul: Chico DeBarge "When Can I See You Again"

Chico DeBarge "When Can I See You Again"

Ah man do I love this album, and ah man do I love this song. Chico really brought the soul and passion on his 1999 album "The Game" and this song is a perfect example of that. I have so many favorites on the album it was hard to pick one, but this song definitely does it for me!

Lost Soul: Pete Rock & CL Smooth "Searching"

Pete Rock & CL Smooth "Searching"

Even if you don't listen to or enjoy hip hop, you have to like this song. This is another of my favorite songs, especially since it's rare I can describe my feelings for a woman through a rapper.

New Joint: K. Michelle "Can't Do This" (Produced by R. Kelly)

K. Michelle "K. Michelle "Can't Do This" (Produced by R. Kelly)

New single from her upcoming debut album "Pain Medicine." Pretty good single, I like it.

Classic Vibe: Michael Jackson "Human Nature" (1982)

Excuse me for not knowing, I wasn't even born when this was recorded, but is there really no video for this song? This song is arguably my favorite song of all time, I can't get enough of it.

New Joint: Corey "Latif" Williams "Love TKO" (Teddy Pendergrass Cover)

Corey "Latif" Williams "Love TKO" (Teddy Pendergrass Cover)

I must be under a rock because this is another album that came out and I had no idea about; and I was even waiting on this one!! Ok, so technically, and I can't even confirm this, I think it has only released overseas to this point. Anyway, I like this cover, especially for the fact that Latif was mentored by the man himself.

New Joints: Case "Jealousy" & "Feels So Long"

Case "Jealousy"

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Case "Feels So Long"

Here's a little taste of Case's new album "Here, My Love" which just released last week. To be honest, I wouldn't have even known it was releasing if not for one of my readers tipping me off; so much for promotion. After one listen, it's pretty much what you would expect from a Case album, solid r&b including Case's 90's signature sound. Here are two songs that caught my attention on the first listen. Have you heard the album?

Rare Gems: Torrey Carter "Shotgun" featuring Lil' Mo & "If It's Money You Want"

Torrey Carter "Shotgun" featuring Lil' Mo

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Torrey Carter "If It's Money You Want"

Since a reader requested it, I decided to dig up Torrey Carter's unreleased debut album "The Life I Live" from 2000. The debut single from that album was "Take That" featuring Missy Elliot but I'm not sure if a video was ever shot. Torrey was the first artist signed to Missy's Goldmind label but unfortunately never made it out. I choose to feature these two songs from the album, these stood out the most.

Classic Vibe: Missy Elliot "Take Away" featuring Ginuwine & Tweet (2002)

I'm not sure if this song was written as a tribute to Aaliyah, in fact I'm pretty sure it wasn't since it released before she passed, but it can't help but feel like one. Not only did the video come out shortly after her passing, but you can clearly see the Aaliyah imagery in the video. R.I.P. Babygirl.

New Joint: Ne-Yo "Stronger"

Ne-Yo "Stronger"

Whoa, this is a Ne-Yo song? I guess I shouldn't be surprised, you never know what style to expect with him, but you can't deny he constantly succeeds at what he does!

New Joint: Bilal "Free"

Bilal "Free"

I've heard a bunch of Bilal features over the past few years, but it's finally good to hear some new music from him. He's currently working on his new album "Air Tight's Revenge," and this is the first single. Neo-soul at its finest.

Classic Vibe: Bilal "Love It" (2001)

Love this song!

New Joint: Tamieka - Respect Women

Many of you are probably saying "Who?". Well, she's better known as Tamieka, the incredible vocalist on tracks like "Wheels Fall Off", "Desire" and "Half a Day". She's decided to share a track with us today, and it is a must listen!



This track is called "Respect Women", which was co-written by Tamieka and Static. The song includes production from Rudy and Static. From Tamieka's own words: "This song is about the embracing Women because we go through so much.Women need to know that we should have close relationships because we have so many issues in common"

So sit back and listen to the incredible vocals of Tamieka.

Also check out Tamieka's myspace and holla at her: http://www.myspace.com/hearthsas

And a question for all of you: where is the chorus of this song from?

New Joint: Rico Love "Comes Around" (Produced by Dre and Vidal)

Rico Love "Comes Around" (Produced by Dre and Vidal)

New Joint: Corey "Latif" Williams "A Lil More Time"

Corey "Latif" Williams "A Lil More Time"

Latif is currently working on his second studio album called "Love is Love" which should be out later this year. His "Breath Of Fresh Air" mixtape which released earlier was very good, so check that out if you haven't yet.

Rare Gem: Blaque "Bring It All To Me" (Original Version)

Blaque "Bring It All To Me" (Original Version)

No offense to JC Chasez (from N Sync), but I've always preferred the version WITHOUT him to the one that was released as a single. In fact, I'm sure he was only included for hype purposes anyway.

Classic Vibe: Blaque "808" (1999)

Blaque - 808



Remember this group that Left Eye put out?

New Joint: Keyshia Cole "Someone Tell My Heart"

Keyshia Cole "Someone Tell My Heart"

I'm not sure what's going on with the release of Keyshia's new album, but I have no doubt that once a release date is announced it will be highly anticipated. I wasn't a big fan of her last album, but I feel she still has one of the most powerful voices in r&b today and not too many can touch her when she's on top of her game. I'm not too sure how I feel about this song here though.

Lost Soul: Angie Martinez "F***ed Up Situation" featuring Tony Sunshine

Angie Martinez "F***ed Up Situation" featuring Tony Sunshine

Well here's something a little different than I'm used to posting. If you've been through a rough relationship before in life, there's a good chance you can relate to this song. If you've never heard it, give it a shot, you might be pleasantly surprised. If anything, Tony's part on this song is really good.

New Joint: Kelly Rowland "Rose Colored Glasses"

Kelly Rowland "Rose Colored Glasses"

Apparently this is another new song form her upcoming album. Not too bad.

New Joint: Casey Boyz "Valentine"

Casey Boyz "Valentine"

If your not familiar with the Casey Boyz, as you can see from the picture, it's the brothers and lead singers from Jagged Edge. At one point I believe they were looking to release their own project together, but from all indications that project has been scrapped. The group will release "The Remedy" in a couple of months.

New Joint: Slim "In My Mind"

Slim "In My Mind"

His new album "Cruise Control" is coming soon.

New Joint: Johnta Austin "This Night"

Johnta Austin "This Night"

I'm sorry, I know I've said it time and time again, but I just can't consider Johnta as a great singer. I don't mean to sound negative, or take away anything from him as an artist or as a writer (which he is amazing at), but to me his voice is more suited for demo tracks. That being said, I like this song, and I think with the right voice it could be a very solid track.

New Joint: DJ Quik "Hydromatic" featuring Jon B.

DJ Quik "Hydromatic" featuring Jon B.

Check out this contribution Jon made to DJ Quik's upcoming album. He discussed working with Quik in the interview we did, and we already heard another collaboration called "Fill Ur Cup," and from what I heard there are more to come.

New Joint: Faith Evans "Way You Move" featuring Snoop Dogg

Faith Evans "Way You Move" featuring Snoop Dogg

Ok Faith! This is the first single off of her upcoming album, and I can't say I'm disappointed. I think this is a safe choice as a single, and as I hear more from the album, I'm hoping to hear more of the amazing voice that made me a fan!

Lost Soul: Anthony Hamilton "Sailin Away"

Anthony Hamilton "If I Had My Way"

It probably would have been more fair to classify this as a Rare Gem, since it was included on his little known "Southern Comfort" album; a compilation of leftover songs from early in his career. The album was released in 2007 and quickly dropped off of the Billboard 200 after charting at number 91. But wow did he provide us with some gems including "Sailin Away." I'm serious when I say that if I listen to this song in my headphones and close my eyes, I'm taken away from all the troubles in the world even if for just a couple of minutes.

Lost Soul: Joe "Here She Comes"

Joe "Here She Comes"

In the spirit of today's Classic Vibe, I thought I'd pick out a song that I knew sampled it. Of course, on "Here She Comes," Joe samples the Hall & Oates classic "Maneater" on the chorus.

Rare Gem: Mario Winans "He Don't Know" featuring Kelis

Mario Winans "He Don't Know" featuring Kelis

This as a leftover from his 2004 album "Hurt No More." The song is ok, but I was more fascinated by the collaboration between these two; this is not one I would have expected to hear.

Classic Vibe: After 7 "Sara Smile" (Hall & Oates Cover) (1997) & Hall & Oates "Sara Smile" (1976)

Which version do you like better?

New Joint: Usher "Love Em All" (Produced by Tricky Stewart)

Usher "Love Em All" (Produced by Tricky Stewart)

Can we just forget about the "Raymond vs. Raymond" album and move on in hopes that he will do better next time? Honestly I was only feeling "There Goes My Baby" from that album.

New Joint: Tank "Sex Music"

Tank "Sex Music"

Well here we have it, the first single from Tank's upcoming "Now or Never" album. Apparently, the "Sex, Love & Pain II: The All Night Experience" concept was scrapped, and the supposed first single "Wanted" was given away to another artist. After one listen, I'm not sure how I feel about the song yet; I guess if anything it's going to have to grow on me. You know I'm a huge Tank fan, but I'm not sure this one blows me away like I was expecting. I'll give it some more spins and see if that does the trick!

Lost Soul: Mario Winans "Disbelief"

Mario Winans "Disbelief"

I was thinking that Mario Winans sophomore album "Hurt No More" was slept on, but then I just read it went platinum! That was probably off of the strength of the huge first single "I Don't Wanna Know" which sampled The Fugees "Ready Or Not" beat and reached number two on the Billboard Top 100. However, without a doubt "Disbelief" was the song that stood out to me the most. When I first heard this album, I thought man this dude must have been through a lot of pain in relationships in his life because of the negative tone of most of the songs.

Lost Soul: Faith Evans "I Just Can't"

Faith Evans "I Just Can't"

How was this song not a single? This is one of my favorite songs by Faith and characterizes the mid 90's r&b sound she had back in the day. The song was included on the "High School High" soundtrack back in 1996. Did I mention I can't wait for her new album?

Lost Soul: Faith Evans "Ever Wonder" featuring Mario Winans

Faith Evans "Ever Wonder" featuring Mario Winans

I love this collaboration of these two singers formerly signed to Puffy's Bad Boy record label. Of course I've always considered Faith one of the best, but I've also always considered Mario Winans as a very underrated singer and producer himself. In any case, Faith's "First Lady" album was a pretty good one in my opinion, and I can't wait until her next project later this year!

Classic Vibe: Eve "Love is Blind" featuring Faith Evans (2000)

Man, Eve has gone a long way in changing her image over the past ten years huh? That being said, she really did her thing on this conscious hip hop track, bringing to light a situation many women face but may be afraid to talk about.

New Joint: R.L. "Sexy as Hell" (Produced by Bryan Michael Cox)

R.L. "Sexy as Hell" (Produced by Bryan Michael Cox)

More new music from R.L. I hope for his sake they didn't hack him again because we've had a bunch of new music from him coming recently.

New Joint: R. Kelly "I Know You Got A Man (I Don't Care)"

R. Kelly "I Know You Got A Man (I Don't Care)"

Not really a fan of artists singing or rapping about taking other dudes girls. I know my man Rell is in agreement on that.

Classic Vibe: Mista "Lady" (1996)

Mista was led by a young Bobby Valentino before the group disbanded and he has gone on to a moderately successful solo career. "Lady" was the second and last of the videos they shot for their self titled debut album back in 1996. According to Valentino, the group had management issues, was not compatible, and couldn't stay together because of their young age. My man Sam hookin me up with all these classics, keep it comin my dude!

Rare Gem: Outsiderz 4 Life "Pressin The Issue"

Outsiderz 4 Life "Pressin The Issue"

Although the group never released an official album, they did leave us with some unreleased gems along the way. Here is one of them, written for the group by Static Major back in the early 00's.

New Joint: Joe "Roll With Me" featuring Shota

Joe "Roll With Me" featuring Shota

Something new from Joe, not sure of much else of the origin of this song.

New Joint: Dru Hill "Sexual"

Dru Hill "Sexual"

As you can hear, this song is unfinished, but I definitely feel it has potential. However, I can't help but say I'm starting to wonder if the reason Dru Hill's album keeps getting pushed back is because of the quality of the material. As I've mentioned before, Sisqo's voice sounds a lot raspier than I remember which might be a factor in the quality issue. I just haven't really heard anything yet that has got me excited; and this is coming from someone rooting for them to succeed! In any case, the album is still listed as a July 27th release date.