Archive » September 2008

This page contains 166 entries posted in September 2008

A Soulful Noise

Jennifer Hudson Is Thankful for 'Jennifer Hudson'

What a month it's turning out to be for Jennifer Hudson. Let's see, she got engaged on her birthday and has a new movie (The Secret Life of Bees) due next month. Hmm, what else? Oh yes, her highly-anticipated, self-titled...

Harlem | 09/30/2008 at 4:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

'Another Way To Die'? Watching This Video.

Maura Johnston over at Idolator sums up this video perfectly by saying "Alicia Keys and Jack White Stand Around in the Desert and Yell A Lot." The collaboration between Keys and White is interesting in theory, the song itself is...

Ro | 09/30/2008 at 3:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise

Could 112's Slim Be Bringing Us That Long-Awaited Faith Album?

Am I overstating with the whole "long-awaited" bit? Perhaps. But honestly, when it comes to R&B delivered by a female over 30 with a touch of Hip Hop that isn't Mary, Faith Evans fits the need perfectly. Today's rumor (until verified...

nOvaMatic | 09/30/2008 at 2:48 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

People Under The Stairs Dream of Expat Status In 'The Wiz'

I have often longed to join the flocks of Americans who have uprooted themselves from their familiar environs to set out to live in faraway lands. Having been seriously considering becoming an expatriate myself lately, I now have Australia to...

ill Mami | 09/30/2008 at 2:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Industry & Culture

How Many Mary J. Blige's Can You Fit In A Chevy?

Last night I was watching VH1's 100 Greatest Hip Hop Songs countdown and during one of the commercial breaks I caught Mary J. Blige's newest commercial for Chevrolet. This time around MJB is riding around with her girls in a...

Butta | 09/30/2008 at 1:00 PM | Comments (10) | Permalink

Crowd Participation, Media Watch

Barack Obama and His Affinity for Hip-Hop

A few days ago MTV posted an article about Sway speaking with Presidential Candidate Barack Obama about how hip-hop culture affected his life. In it Obama discusses how he missed the curve on being a part of the hip-hop generation...

Ro | 09/30/2008 at 12:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

First Spin

John Legend Slows It Down With 'Good Morning'

Another week, another leak from John Legend's album Evolver, which is due next month. The track, entitled "Good Morning," finds JL in chill mode, taking it back to the slow jams that populated most of his last album, Once Again....

Harlem | 09/30/2008 at 11:00 AM | Comments (14) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Here's My Number And A Dime

Usher's "One Night Stand" tour dates have been announced. [SR]Looks like the late, great James Brown's estate is finally nearing settlement after almost two years. Sheesh. [TS]The trailer for the latest Will Smith heart warmer, Seven Pounds, is ready...

Harlem | 09/30/2008 at 10:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

DJ Stylus & Phonte Cut Up 'In The Artist's Studio'

For those of you fortunate to witness Phonte and Zo! perform live in Washington D.C. last week at the "Inside The Artist's Studio" event, you were treated to something genuinely special. Not only was Phonte in rare form by showcasing...

ill Mami | 09/29/2008 at 2:35 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Anthony Hamilton Is One 'Cool' Cat

Raise your hand if, like me, you've been waiting for a new album from Anthony Hamilton. Just as I thought. Well, I'm here to tell you that our wait is almost over, as Mr. "Mama Knew Love" is on his...

Harlem | 09/29/2008 at 12:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Janelle Monáe Shows Us 'Many Moons'

What's so fantastic about Janelle Monáe is that she manages to flesh out the creativity in her music without sacrificing any of its wildly fantastical elements. Even though the back-story is complicated, the music is enjoyable even without having to...

Ro | 09/29/2008 at 11:00 AM | Comments (10) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Can Tell You Wanna Boogie

Jay-Z is rumored to be seriously feeling musical Fela! [NYP]His "Dangerously In Love" wife Beyoncé may be seriously dangerous to your computer. [EW]Gentrification has claimed the birthplace of Hip Hop, 1520 Sedgewick Ave, in the Boogie Down Bronx. [HHDX]Lisa...

ill Mami | 09/29/2008 at 10:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Soul Cynic

Maxwell Tickets Are How Much?

This morning on Twitter I had a minor major meltdown when I ranted to whoever would listen about my utter disgust and sheer dismay at the price of Maxwell tickets for his upcoming concert tour stop in Washington, DC. As...

Butta | 09/26/2008 at 1:00 PM | Comments (48) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

'Pave A New Road' With Eric Roberson (On His Birthday!)

We already knew that Eric Roberson was on Team Obama, and the video for his latest single is further proof that he is Barackin' with the best. Erro wrote and recorded "Pave A New Road" for the Rockin' the...

Butta | 09/26/2008 at 12:30 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Rap Snacks

VH1's Hip Hop Countdown 'Fights The Power' Not To The 'Delight' Of Rappers

VH1, the music cable channel who rose from its humble beginnings as a soft rock video pusher to becoming a powerhouse for questionable and tactless reality show programming, has declared Public Enemy's "Fight The Power" as the top hip hop...

ill Mami | 09/26/2008 at 12:00 PM | Comments (10) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Ice Cube and Musiq Ask 'Why Me'?

Ice Cube wants to remind us of the senselessness of violence from the hood to the Gaza Strip. He and Musiq Soulchild ask the question of all victims in this song of the same name: Why me? In this video...

Ro | 09/26/2008 at 11:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Wishing On A Star To Follow Where You Are

Forget about Clay Aiken. Where is Ruben Studdard? He was recently in Chicago speaking about Sickle Cell Anemia and will be performing in Ain't Misbehavin' later this year. [CD]Known Yank-hater and Oasis lead singer Noel Gallagher dismisses Bond theme singers...

Ro | 09/26/2008 at 10:00 AM | Comments (13) | Permalink

Rap Snacks

Diddy Proves That No One Is Safe From His Biting Ways. Not Even Pete Rock.

How wack is it to straight jack a beat in front of someone's face, then usher in an era of biting as not only acceptable, but rewarded? It's kind of like this current election where ignorance in the face...

ill Mami | 09/25/2008 at 3:00 PM | Comments (11) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise

Quincy Jones Is Through With Michael Jackson, Has Tribute Album in the Works

Well so much for my wishful thinking that Quincy Jones might reteam with Michael Jackson on his new album because that has about as much chance of happening as me voting for McCain/Palin. When speaking to Roger Friedman from...

Butta | 09/25/2008 at 1:20 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Bounce-Worthy

Bounce-Worthy: Sarah White

What do you do when being known as hot local talent in Minnesota is not enough to fulfill your musical wanderlust? If you're Sarah White, you take your electro-dub, hip hop and soul roots and join the lengthy list of...

ill Mami | 09/25/2008 at 12:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Rappin' Rick James: Like The Rappin' Duke But Infinitely Better

Feenin' for some new-sounding old school? Has your Betamax copy of Wild Style been run into the ground? We understand. Enter Los Angeles' own People Under The Stairs, whose albums are considered by many hip hop heads to be instant...

ill Mami | 09/25/2008 at 11:15 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Believe Half Of What You See

To celebrate its 50th anniversary, Motown wants you to vote on the 50 songs that will go on its official compilation disc. [CM]Kanye West has bumped up the release date of 808s & Heartbreak to "November Something," according to his...

Harlem | 09/25/2008 at 10:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

First Spin, Releases

Labelle Rolls Out New Single, Album Cover & Tracklist

As its been widely reported, Patti LaBelle, Nona Hendryx and Sarah Dash are back together as Labelle, and they can be found in all of their feathered, bedazzled and synthetic hair-wearing glory on the cover of their new album,...

Butta | 09/24/2008 at 6:30 PM | Comments (15) | Permalink

Soul Cynic

Can Michael Jackson Make Another 'Thriller'? Do We Want Him To?

Michael Jackson is allegedly hard at work on his comeback album, which he wants to be on the same level or better than Thriller. Good luck with that, Mike, because I really don't see that happening....

Butta | 09/24/2008 at 3:30 PM | Comments (23) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise

Amerie Gets a New Release Date! Yay! For An Old Album. Boo.

This latest album news from Amerie will either be met with a happy dance or a blank stare, but the geniuses over at her old record company (Sony BMG) have decided to finally bless the public with the heretofore unreleased...

Butta | 09/24/2008 at 12:30 PM | Comments (19) | Permalink

Relax in Paradise

Nappy Brown (1929-2008)

Nappy Brown, Charlotte-born blues singer, dies at 78 [TCP]Nappy Brown [MySpace][AMG][Wiki]...

Butta | 09/24/2008 at 10:30 AM | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Smiling Faces Tell Lies

Why is Ciara still insisting that she wasn't nude for her VIBE cover shoot? People stopped caring over a week ago. [VH1]Kanye West is developing a hip-hop themed Muppets-like show for Comedy Central. This has the potential to be brilliant...

Butta | 09/24/2008 at 10:00 AM | Permalink

First Spin

The Unnecessary 'Paris, Tokyo' Remix

I guess it can be argued that most remixes are unneeded, but for "Paris, Tokyo" this is truly the case. Lupe Fiasco fills the original with lyrical niceness, and he even manages to sing his own hook effectively. It's one...

Ro | 09/23/2008 at 4:30 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Jazzy Ways, Rewind

Happy Birthday, John Coltrane

John William Coltrane, or "Trane," as he was better known, is considered one of the leading saxaphonists and composers of his time, in what turned out to be a time cut way too short by liver cancer at the age...

Harlem | 09/23/2008 at 4:00 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Nurse Your 'Love Hangover' With the KiDz in the Hall & Estelle

KiDz in the Hall and Estelle have teamed up for the video for the duo's next single "Love Hangover." I've previously gone on record about my affinity for this particular track from The In Crowd, but the video didn't particularly...

Butta | 09/23/2008 at 3:30 PM | Permalink

Media Watch, Rap Snacks

MC Lyte is Frustrated About the State of Female MCs

MC Lyte is caps-lock upset about the media (really, only blogs) just now picking up on the lack of female MCs in music today, and rightfully so. This has been a topic of discussion here at SoulBounce and on other...

Ro | 09/23/2008 at 2:45 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Soul On Film

A 'Notorious' Conundrum

The trailer for the film Notorious surfaced yesterday ... and I'm still not sure how I feel about it. I mean, I grew up in New York during the "Biggie Smalls" era, watched Christopher Wallace go from ashy to classy...

Harlem | 09/23/2008 at 1:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

Holla At Us, NYC! Enter Our Teedra Moses/S.O.B.'s Concert Ticket Giveaway!

Are you in New York City? Would you like to see Teedra Moses for free? Is SoulBounce your favorite music blog? If you answered "YES!" to all of those questions, then enter our Teedra Moses/S.O.B.'s concert ticket giveaway today....

Butta | 09/23/2008 at 12:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Soul Cynic

Keyshia Plans A 'Breakthrough'. Should We Be Concerned?

It's things like this that make me do a happy dance, knowing that my side-eye is still intact and ready for action. Over the weekend, our favorite around the way girl neighborhood diva Keyshia Cole appeared on TV One and...

Harlem | 09/23/2008 at 11:00 AM | Comments (9) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: War! What Is It Good For?

Well, it's about time! Hip Hop pioneers Run-DMC have been nominated for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. [SOHH]Toni Braxton had a great first night on Dancing With the Stars. [SR]VH1 Hip Hop Honors adds Queen...

Harlem | 09/23/2008 at 10:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

First Spin

Wale & Mark Ronson Have the 'Magic' Touch

Earlier today Harlem aired out one of his remix beefs -- a remix consisting only of the addition of a few tired bars from a random rapper -- and I was over here "amening" and waving my church fan...

Butta | 09/22/2008 at 4:30 PM | Comments (9) | Permalink

Rap Snacks

'Let's Get Free' With Black August Hip Hop Project

It's hard to believe that the Black August Hip Hop Project has been around for eleven years. The movement that was born out of the need to promote human rights and raise awareness through hip hop about U.S. political prisoners...

Harlem | 09/22/2008 at 3:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Ne-Yo & Jamie 'Own' Up to Impressive 'Independent' Remix

I'm almost never impressed these days when artists send stuff out to the masses claiming they have a remix to one of their original tracks when, in fact, it's usually merely a simple addition of a rapper to the original...

Harlem | 09/22/2008 at 1:25 PM | Comments (9) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

Yo, NYC! Enter Our Eric Roberson Birthday Party @ Sol Village Ticket Giveaway!

This is your lucky week, New York City Bouncers! SoulBounce and the lovely people from S.O.B.'s are back it once again to give away more tickets. And this week we're not just giving away any and any old tickets but...

Butta | 09/22/2008 at 12:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Crowd Participation

Whose Songs Would You Like to Hear Come Out of 'The Vault'?

A while ago it was revealed that Ashanti will be releasing an album of unheard songs written in 2001, before she was signed with Murder Inc. and catapulted to fame after singing hooks for Ja Rule. Instead of just releasing...

Ro | 09/22/2008 at 11:30 AM | Comments (16) | Permalink

Relax in Paradise

Earl Palmer (1924-2008)

Earl Palmer, legendary rock 'n' roll drummer, dies at 83 [LAT]Earl Palmer [Telegraph][AMG][Wiki]...

Ro | 09/22/2008 at 10:30 AM | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Where The World's Heading Nobody Knows

En Vogue is back together. Like, for real. [NB]Hidden Beach is on Team Obama, and they put together a compilation album for your listening pleasure. Don't mind the price; it's for a good cause. [HB]Amy Winehouse is struggling to...

Butta | 09/22/2008 at 10:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

First Spin, Free Music

Kindred the Family Soul Celebrates 10 Years of Love With a Gift For Their Fans

Congratulations are in order for Aja and Fatin of Kindred the Family Soul who are celebrating their 10th anniversary today. To commemorate the joyous occasion they are giving their fans a present in the form of a free download...

Butta | 09/19/2008 at 4:00 PM | Comments (8) | Permalink

Diggin' in the Crates

Diggin' In Jazmine Sullivan's Crates

As we prepare for the release of Jazmine Sullivan's debut album, Fearless, next Tuesday, I thought it would be groovy to comb through her crates, and I came across this treasure in my magical iTunes folder. It's no secret that...

Butta | 09/19/2008 at 2:40 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

New Videos From Supa Nova Slom, The Lo, Johnson & Johnson and Ryan Leslie

Welcome to this week's new video roundup. I don't know about anybody else, but after watching my 401K go down the charts with a bullet, I need a serious laugh. So that's where Supa Nova Slom (pause) comes in. Dude...

Butta | 09/19/2008 at 12:00 PM | Comments (8) | Permalink

Media Watch

EW Bemoans 3rd Annual BET Sausage Party

The great thing about Entertainment Weekly's "Popwatch" blog is they often post about Hip Hop. If you're lucky, you'll happen upon an entry that decries a reality that not enough blogs (specifically Hip Hop blogs) are willing to decry, like...

nOvaMatic | 09/19/2008 at 11:45 AM | Comments (6) | Permalink

First Spin

I Just Called To Formally Introdoosh Myself: 'I'm His Only Woman'

The actual singing of the actual song "I'm His Only Woman" is actually good. Jennifer Hudson and Fantasia Barrino have two of the most unique and powerful voices in contemporary R&B, and it's fascinating and satisfying to hear them singing...

Ro | 09/19/2008 at 11:30 AM | Comments (28) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Every Day Is Christmas and Every Night Is New Year's Eve

It may be possible that Jay-Z is forming his own record label. At this point it's also possible he isn't. Whatever. [SR]Janet Jackson is still the saucy vixen we all know and love her for being, teasing one lucky...

Ro | 09/19/2008 at 10:00 AM | Permalink

First Spin

'It's Over' John Legend?

The build up to John Legend's new album Evolver has been pretty consistent. With the release of the great "Green Light" and the so-so accompanying video earlier this year, and working in conjunction with iTunes to have the biggest Complete...

Ro | 09/18/2008 at 7:00 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Another Helping of Eric Benét

I don't know how I managed to miss this live performance of my favorite song from Eric Benét's Love & Life, but I'm awake from my slumber and here to share it with you all. This is a clip of...

Butta | 09/18/2008 at 4:40 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Praise & Worship, Releases

Mary Mary To Bring 'The Sound' On New CD

Prepare to get your praise on next month with the release of Mary Mary's latest album The Sound. The duo's fourth release will find them serving up a hearty helping of the R&B and soul-flavored gospel tunes that they are...

Butta | 09/18/2008 at 3:50 PM | Comments (13) | Permalink

Free Music, Releases

Black Milk Nabs Dwele & Primo for 'Tronic'

Black Milk's Popular Demand is among a shortlist of Hip Hop albums released in the past couple of years that make me nod my head without feeling guilty afterwards. In quick succession, he paired up with Bishop Lamont for...

nOvaMatic | 09/18/2008 at 3:15 PM | Permalink

First Spin

It's Alright With Musiq & Mary 'If U Leave'

Fresh off the presses is a new track from the upcoming Musiq Soulchild release On My Radio entitled "If U Leave" featuring SoulBounce fave Mary J. Blige. The song, another solid Musiq slow jam, details the travails of a couple...

Harlem | 09/18/2008 at 2:00 PM | Comments (18) | Permalink

Media Watch

Would You Trust a Man that Once Wore His Hair Like This? [Updated With Flex Rant!]

Hopefully this will bring an end to the long national nightmare called The R. Kelly Verdict Pontification Parade, but it won't end his career, unforch. Recently, The R. went to the most trusted news source on cable television to talk about...

nOvaMatic | 09/18/2008 at 1:25 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

LA, Where Ya At? Enter Our Little Jackie & J*DaVeY Concert Ticket Giveaway!

Here ye, here ye, Los Angeles Bouncers! The beautiful people at Giant Step have teamed up with SoulBounce to give away a pair of tickets to see Little Jackie and J*DaVeY in concert on Tuesday, September 23 at The Roxy...

Butta | 09/18/2008 at 12:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Rap Snacks

New Andre 3000 Solo Joint in the Works [Patience is a Virtue]

Benjamin Andre To Be Exact was voted The Dopest MC Out Right Now even though he doesn't really have anything out right now, which means his awesomeness laughs in the face of release dates and the existence of any tangible product....

nOvaMatic | 09/18/2008 at 11:30 AM | Comments (4) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise, Crowd Participation

Reality TV Shows Being Given Away, Keith Sweat Snags Three

Apparently Keith Sweat may have two reality television shows in the works. Who is exactly is conceptualizing and funding projects like these anyway? The Keep New Jack Alive Alliance? Pebbles and Teddy Riley? Anyway, It isn't like he's entirely irrelevant....

Ro | 09/18/2008 at 11:00 AM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Gotta Be Bad, Gotta Be Bold, Gotta Be Wiser

World Music group Pilgrim will say "Thank Q" to legendary humanitarian Quincy Jones by performing "We Are the World" during a tribute concert next month. [NB]Oscar winner Jamie Foxx is back, and maybe better than ever in his upcoming film...

Harlem | 09/18/2008 at 10:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

First Spin

Come Taste Noelle Scaggs' Sweet 'Cherry Pie'

Ever since Noelle Scaggs' abrupt departure from The Rebirth, many have been left wondering when we would be hearing more from one of Los Angeles' most slept-on, honey-voiced melodists. Glancing at the photo of her above, one could definitely say...

ill Mami | 09/17/2008 at 6:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Reviews

Eric Benét Celebrates 'Love & Life'

On his new album, Love & Life, Eric Benét explores the labyrinth of love, lust and life on a diverse collection that features no low moments but only highs. It's ironic that this album is entitled Love & Life because...

Butta | 09/17/2008 at 4:00 PM | Comments (17) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Nikka Costa Wants To Be 'Stuck To You'

Much discussion has been generated over the role our non-Black brethren and sistren have in soul music as artists on SoulBounce lately. Just thought I'd throw this tidbit out there before I progress to tell you about one of soul...

ill Mami | 09/17/2008 at 3:15 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise, Video SoulBounce

Darius Rucker and Phantom Limb Bring Twang, Raise Questions

Full disclosure: Sometimes I'm a little bit Country (I know I'm not the only one). On more than one occasion I have cleaned out horse stalls, and I kind of enjoy Shania Twain. A lot.It's difficult, though, when it comes...

Ro | 09/17/2008 at 2:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

First Spin

For Those Who Still Care, Kanye Presents 'Love Lockdown' 2.0

Kanye West's "Love Lockdown" is proving itself to be the most polarizing song to emerge in a minute. People either love it, or they hate it. Personally, I'm over it already. The official studio version that surfaced last week...

Butta | 09/17/2008 at 1:00 PM | Comments (11) | Permalink

Relax in Paradise

Norman Whitfield (1943-2008)

Temptations and Motown producer Norman Whitfield dies [NME]Norman Whitfield [AMG]...

nOvaMatic | 09/17/2008 at 12:34 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Bounce-Worthy

Bounce-Worthy: The Luv Bugz

Ever wonder what would happen if Prince and Apollonia had ridden off into the sunset on his sexually-ambiguously assigned motorcycle to live in their purple mansion full of roses and flying doves who only cry out of absolute joy? Me...

ill Mami | 09/17/2008 at 12:00 PM | Comments (17) | Permalink

First Spin, Free Music

The Foreign Exchange Tempts, Teases With 'Leave It All Behind' Sampler

Still feenin' for more sounds from Nicolay and Phonte after they dropped that gem of a song "Daykeeper" featuring the inimitable vocals of Muhsinah? Can't wait until October 7th when Leave It All Behind drops digitally and in record stores...

ill Mami | 09/17/2008 at 11:30 AM | Comments (3) | Permalink

First Spin

Don't Sleep On Lionel Richie's 'Good Morning'

Stop yawning and wipe the sleep outta your eyes, folks. Lionel Richie is back. I said stop yawning! Yes, I understand that new millennium Lionel is a far cry from the man who funked up the joint on cuts...

Butta | 09/17/2008 at 10:45 AM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Don't Wanna Be Weak, Just Wanna Be Strong

Although everything still sounds real sketchy, no foul play was found in Sean Levert's death. [AP]Check out John Legend's album cover and the potential tracklist for Evolver. [JEBS]Irv Gotti's reality show has been renewed for a second season by...

Butta | 09/17/2008 at 10:00 AM | Comments (7) | Permalink

First Spin

Maya Azucena Wants Us To 'Get It Together'

If you're a fan of Indie-Soul, then the name Maya Azucena should be very familiar to you. The Brooklyn-based beauty is a singer/songwriter with two albums to her credit, Maya Who? (2003) and Junkyard Jewel (2007), and the recently released...

Butta | 09/16/2008 at 6:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

First Spin, Soul On Film

Alicia Keys Finds 'Another Way To Die' With Jack White

Having a sexy mocha-hued chanteuse sing the opening song for a James Bond movie is nothing new (see Shirley Bassey, Gladys Knight and Tina Turner), so it should come as no surprise that Alicia Keys's vocal stylings will be blessing the...

ill Mami | 09/16/2008 at 4:00 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

How to Make An Election Boring -- In Two Easy Steps!

SoulBouncers, I love to dance*. Almost as much as I've loved following this year's presidential race, what with the ups and downs, the dips and dives, and with politicians from both camps so adept at dancing around the issues (ZING!)....

Harlem | 09/16/2008 at 3:30 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Industry & Culture

Dear Music Industry, Try Harder

When Warner pulled Estelle's single "American Boy" from iTunes several weeks ago in a futile attempt to increase sales of the entire album, it only accentuated the music industry's desperation to return to the glory days of dictating to the...

Ro | 09/16/2008 at 3:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Kicks & Giggles

LL Has More 'Swagger' In His Deodorant Stick Than Jigga & T.I. Combined

"Swagger" is a word none of us will ever get tired of, and the geniuses at Old Spice realize this. That's why they have a new line called exactly that. Since "Swagger" is a word that has been appropriated by...

nOvaMatic | 09/16/2008 at 1:58 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Rap Snacks

Queen Latifah Returns To Hip Hop Roots

After gaining a new audience with her jazzy adult contemporary albums, Dana Owens Queen Latifah is going back to where it all started and making her return to hip hop with a new album scheduled to be released this December....

Butta | 09/16/2008 at 12:20 PM | Comments (8) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Have To Survive, Have To Stay Alive

MTV is finally dropping TRL. Hopefully BET will follow suit and cancel 106th & Farce. [SR] A contest where no one wins: Predict the sales of Ne-Yo's Year of the Gentleman. [PFM] Find out how Kenny Lattimore remains Timeless....

nOvaMatic | 09/16/2008 at 10:00 AM | Comments (3) | Permalink

First Spin

Zo! Flies High With 'Nights Over Egypt'

I have always been terrified of a future that resembles the soul music revivals that countless aunts and uncles of mine have attended. Sure, the music was great, but who wants to see fifty-plus-year-olds trying to get up on the...

ill Mami | 09/15/2008 at 6:00 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Soul Fashioned

Ghostface Killah's New $155 T-Shirt? Negro, Please

It seems as though someone has not gotten the memo that we're in a recession. Gas prices topping five dollars a gallon has caused a surge in Americans buying more smaller cars, and I personally have been frequenting Tar-jay more...

ill Mami | 09/15/2008 at 5:30 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

First Spin

Jadakiss & Ne-Yo Need Your Lovin' In 'Right By My Side'

Jadakiss has teamed up with Ne-Yo to do a little something for the ladies on the track "Right By My Side." Known for his hard-hitting rhymes, Kiss softens it up a bit to let his lady know that every good...

Butta | 09/15/2008 at 4:40 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

First Spin

Deborah Cox's 'Beautiful' Return

Just a few weeks ago, we mentioned that Deborah Cox has a new album on the way and like magic another song has appeared from it for our consumption. After taking a detour from her R&B and dance diva status...

Butta | 09/15/2008 at 3:00 PM | Comments (12) | Permalink

Releases

Ne-Yo & Raphael Drop This Week; George's 'Dukey Treats' Makes a Splash

Good day, SoulBouncers! The fellas are putting out work in force this week aren't they? This week sees highly-anticipated releases by Raphael Saadiq, Ne-Yo, Darius Rucker (with a country album, no less), Wayne Brady (?) and the legendary George Duke,...

nOvaMatic | 09/15/2008 at 1:00 PM | Comments (11) | Permalink

First Spin

Tank Has 'Luv' For the Shorties

Clearly, this is "TGT Appreciation Day" here at SoulBounce, as new music from the former members of the "supergroup" has been surfacing back-to-back. Not to be outdone by his former boss Ginuwine, crooner Tank is back with the track "I...

Harlem | 09/15/2008 at 12:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

First Spin

Ginuwine Is The Baby Hair Pimp of This Slow Jam Game ... 'Please' Believe It!

Yeah, so I'll admit it: I have more than one Ginuwine album. I gyrated and squealed like a giddy school girl when "Pony" came out, corny as it was. And I more than pumped his duet with Aaliyah, "Final...

ill Mami | 09/15/2008 at 11:20 AM | Comments (9) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Baby It's You

LL Cool J seems to be suffering from senility as he calls 50 Cent "inspiring" and Nas "a new cat." [HHDX]Speaking of 50 Cent, he proves that mocking Kanye West's "Love Lockdown" is secret code for "how come you...

ill Mami | 09/15/2008 at 10:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Battle of the Beats

Who Is It That You 'Can't Get Enough' Of? Kenny Lattimore or Tamia?

Our week-long Battle of the Beats series is coming to an end on a sexy note -- with a battle of the sexes, no less. Representing for the fellas is the dapper Kenny Lattimore and holding it down for...

Butta | 09/12/2008 at 5:00 PM | Comments (15) | Permalink

The Interwebs

I Am Kanye West

You know, Animal raises a pretty good point: Who updates Kanye's blog when he's being arrested? Because Kanye himself said that he doesn't have or need any help. And we are inclined to believe him because the style with which he...

nOvaMatic | 09/12/2008 at 4:25 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

I Was There

Leela James Rocks NYC

There are singers, and then there are forces of nature that get you all caught up. Folks, Leela James is just such a force. And if you have never seen Leela live, shame on you. The pint-sized powerhouse from the...

Harlem | 09/12/2008 at 3:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

New Videos From Joell Ortiz, Rapper Big Pooh, Pacific Division & Butta Verses

This week brought a gang of new hip hop videos to the net, and here's the roundup of some of the better ones. Up first is Joell Ortiz with an entertaining and thought-provoking video just as dope as the song....

Butta | 09/12/2008 at 1:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Media Watch

Canada Gives Janet Great Feedback

Janet Jackson's opening show in Vancouver has been getting praise from, like, everyone! Well, maybe Canadians are a little less cynical and out-for-blood like us Americans? But this is still good news, even with the photos indicating Janet reinacted select...

nOvaMatic | 09/12/2008 at 12:01 PM | Comments (8) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise

Erykah Badu Offers Insights Into 'New Amerykah Part Two'

After her concert in Los Angeles for the Vortex Tour, Erykah Badu gave an exclusive interview to Tunji from Inverse that has just been posted on Okayplayer. Although she looks semi-terrifying and appears to be finding lucidity between exhaustion (the...

Ro | 09/12/2008 at 11:00 AM | Comments (19) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Spend the Night Together, Wake Up and Live Forever

Reginald Hudlin is no longer President of Entertainment for BET, but it's unknown if he left or was forced out. [VIBE]Kanye West and his manager were released from jail; $20,000 bail could never contain that much ego. [MTV]Congratulations to...

Ro | 09/12/2008 at 10:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Battle of the Beats

Is It Raheem DeVaughn or Jesse Powell That Knocks 'You' Out?

Today's Battle of the Beats should be a good one, as fellow crooners Raheem DeVaughn and Jesse Powell duke it out over the exclusive use of the word "You" in their respective songs. In this corner is DeVaughn, representing the...

Harlem | 09/11/2008 at 6:00 PM | Comments (26) | Permalink

Reggae Riddims, Video SoulBounce

Amp Fiddler and Sly & Robbie Preview Their 'Inspiration Information'

When I first read that Amp Fiddler and Sly and Robbie were teaming up for a collaborative album, I wanted to do an Olympic-caliber back flip to express my glee. Doing the Cabbage Patch in my office chair had to...

Butta | 09/11/2008 at 5:10 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

UK Bounce

Estelle Weighs in on 'Blue-Eyed' Soul in the UK, Brings Sass

Estelle has some strong opinions on the increasingly "blue-eyed" face of soul music. She has been commenting on fellow Brits Duffy and Adele and their media dominance in the UK, making headlines across the pond earlier this year for denouncing...

Ro | 09/11/2008 at 3:40 PM | Comments (28) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise, First Spin

Avant Returns With 'Avant'

SoulBounce has bemoaned the lack of grown man/woman R&B time and time again. We're not mad at the Chris Brown's, Rihanna's and Trey Songz's of the world (OK, maybe we are), but for those of us over the age...

Butta | 09/11/2008 at 3:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Soul Cynic

Prince Goes 'Crazy' Over Baby Dancing To His Song

Most of you by now have heard of Prince being very controlling of his music, and why not? When you're an independent artist who happens to be a musical genius and who has been screwed over royally by your former...

ill Mami | 09/11/2008 at 2:00 PM | Comments (13) | Permalink

Interviews

Behind the Groove with Raphael Saadiq

When you put the words "musical" and "genius" together there are a few artists who should immediately come to mind: Quincy Jones, Miles Davis, Stevie Wonder, Prince. However, there is another artist who is sometimes overlooked but just as...

Butta | 09/11/2008 at 12:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Soul Cynic

So What Will Common's Album Be Called When It's Actually Released?

Have you been keeping up with the long, convoluted saga of Common's 8th studio album? Because if so, and you have the copious notes to prove it, then you should write for this blog because I am tired. This album...

nOvaMatic | 09/11/2008 at 11:40 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Q-Tip Is Officially 'Gettin' Up'

After yesterday's departure from the norm, it's time for us to get back on our regular SoulBounce grind. Which means good music. And no one else could get us back on track like Q-Tip, who hasn't graced our site in...

Harlem | 09/11/2008 at 11:20 AM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Pause For A Cause

Wyclef to Bring Storm Relief to Haiti

Lost in most mainstream reports of damage done by the hurricanes and tropical storms that have hit in the past month has been the damage done to the small island of Haiti, which was directly in Gustav's crosshairs. More than...

Harlem | 09/11/2008 at 10:40 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Without A Doubt Turn You Out

Diddy "wings it" in response to the allegations that he doesn't really own a private jet. [SOHH] Alicia Keys starts the "buzz" for her new film, The Secret Life of Bees, at the Toronto International Film Fest. [E!]Lawd. Now...

Butta | 09/11/2008 at 10:00 AM | Comments (12) | Permalink

Battle of the Beats

Who Gives You More 'Butterflies'? Floetry or Michael Jackson?

Originally penned by Floetry songstress and sometimes soloist Marsha Ambrosius, "Butterflies" is one of those beautiful songs that really seems to encapsulate some of the feelings associated with passion, love and soft, subtle desire. In the hands of an even...

Ro | 09/10/2008 at 6:00 PM | Comments (34) | Permalink

First Spin

Kanye's Official 'Love Lockdown' Is Here

After premiering his new single "Love Lockdown" at Sunday's 2008 MTV Video Music Awards, Kanye West has snatched the spotlight once again without rolling around on the floor like a two-year-old. I was amongst those who actually dug this song...

Butta | 09/10/2008 at 5:30 PM | Comments (17) | Permalink

SoulTube

Beyoncé Unveiled As Etta James 'At Last'

On last night's telecast of Fashion Rocks we were finally got to see Beyoncé live as Etta James. Yes, we've gotten fleeting glimpses of Bey in all her short blonde wig and thick black eyebrowed glory on the set of...

Butta | 09/10/2008 at 5:00 PM | Comments (17) | Permalink

First Spin

Jay-Z On Saadiq's 'Oh Girl' Makes Us Say 'Oh Boy'

When I first heard that Jay-Z was going to appear on a remix to Raphael Saadiq's utterly blissful song "Oh Girl," I was cautiously optimistic knowing that Jigga is no stranger to sampling classic records and this song is just...

Butta | 09/10/2008 at 3:45 PM | Comments (12) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise

All-4-One Has A New Record Deal, 'I Swear'

Although most people probably only know All-4-One as the mid-nineties R&B group that sang the hit "I Swear," they have been steadily recording for years. Solo projects have kept the members busy between albums as well. Delious Kennedy has been...

Ro | 09/10/2008 at 3:15 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

First Spin

Robin Thicke's Second Single is the 'Sweetest'

Robin Thicke's new album was supposed to drop yesterday, but we have to wait a few more weeks to wrap ourselves up in the soul of Something Else. In the meantime and between time, however, the second single has...

Butta | 09/10/2008 at 2:35 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Soul On Film

Is A Documentary About 'The Source' Really Necessary?

There was a time in my life when I was known for chronically missing my subway stops fueled by being completely engrossed in the latest issue of The Source magazine. Please remember that this was circa 1992 when this magazine...

ill Mami | 09/10/2008 at 2:10 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Releases, Soul Cynic

Jay-Z, Beyoncé, & Kanye Are Coming Back [It's Been Seconds Since We've Seen You]

If there are three artists you barely ever get to read about on a Black music site it's Jay-Z, Beyoncé and Kanye West. To be sure, they are the least exposed artists of our time and could benefit from an...

nOvaMatic | 09/10/2008 at 1:00 PM | Comments (15) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise

Paging Faith Evans!

Don't hold your breath for any new material from Faith Evans. Basically, she's been doing everything but recording music, and that's the way things will remain for a little longer, she tells SoulTracks. She's no longer signed to Capitol Records,...

nOvaMatic | 09/10/2008 at 10:44 AM | Comments (12) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Feel It

OK, Solange, you can sit down now. Beyoncé is coming back like gangbusters this November. [BB]Usher is pregnant again. [ITW]Lupe Fiasco plans to hang up the mic after his third album is released next year. [TRU]The lead singer of...

Butta | 09/10/2008 at 10:00 AM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Battle of the Beats

Who 'Can't Hide Love' The Best? D'Angelo or Bilal?

While Earth Wind & Fire are a band whose many hits have been reinterpreted several times since they harkened the presence of intergalactic soul from a galaxy far, far away over thirty years ago, not all of the remakes...

ill Mami | 09/09/2008 at 5:00 PM | Comments (16) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise, Events

Sugar Pie DeSanto, Chaka Khan and More to be Celebrated at Pioneer Awards Tonight

The R&B Foundation is holding their Pioneer Awards ceremony and 20th anniversary celebration tonight in Philadelphia. This event will also award Kool & The Gang, Bill Withers, Teena Marie, The Whispers, The Funk Brothers and Al Bell of Stax...

Ro | 09/09/2008 at 3:30 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Crowd Participation

Name An Artist That Completely Broke Your Heart

Ever stan so hard for an artist only to one day be completely thrown off by an underwhelming project of theirs? It's happened to quite a few of us. In this week's Crowd Participation, some of us came together to...

nOvaMatic | 09/09/2008 at 2:00 PM | Comments (35) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Kanye West's 'Love' Light Shines Strong

Kanye West and I have had a tortuous relationship. One that has been made more difficult given his infamous and career-defining antics. And in order to be one of his fans, you have to learn to completely ignore his ranting...

ill Mami | 09/09/2008 at 1:30 PM | Comments (8) | Permalink

First Spin, Reggae Riddims

Estelle Wants Sean Paul to 'Come Over'

Despite games and trickery from her record company, Estelle's US debut, Shine, hasn't lost its luster and is still in heavy rotation here at SBHQ. So you can imagine my glee upon coming across this remix of "Come Over"...

Butta | 09/09/2008 at 1:00 PM | Comments (7) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

NYC, Stand Up! Enter Our 24-Hour Leela James/S.O.B.'s Concert Ticket Giveaway!

Attention New York City Bouncers! SoulBounce and the good people at S.O.B.'s have teamed up to give away a pair of tickets to see Leela James on either Wednesday, September 10th or Thursday, September 11th! Yes, that's tomorrow/a day from...

Butta | 09/09/2008 at 12:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Events

Toronto Film Festival is All About the Music

This year's Toronto International Film Festival has turned into an veritable jam session, with many of the films and documentaries being screened owing most of their zest to music. There's The Secret Life of Bees, based on the Sue Monk...

Harlem | 09/09/2008 at 11:15 AM | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Don't Talk, Just Move

Lil Wayne and Kid Rock are scheduled to perform at the 5th Annual VH1 Hip Hop Honors on Monday, October 6th. Don't say we didn't warn you. [SR]Will Smith has moved on from playing superheroes to playing a living god...

Harlem | 09/09/2008 at 10:00 AM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Battle of the Beats

Who Would You Rather 'Spend the Night' With? Rahsaan or Donell?

Rahsaan Patterson and Donell Jones are two of our most beloved artists here at SoulBounce. They remind us that male R&B isn't dead and that real singers are still out there, lest The Dream had you fooled. Both artists have...

Butta | 09/08/2008 at 5:00 PM | Comments (22) | Permalink

First Spin

Foreign Exchange Pleases With 'Daykeeper'

If any of you have been following the teasing videos for Foreign Exchange's upcoming Leave It All Behind, the sensual instant message conversations leave you with the guilty feeling of eavesdropping but with the delight of knowing that great...

ill Mami | 09/08/2008 at 4:00 PM | Comments (13) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Ryan Leslie's 'Addiction' To Models

I've already made it known that Ryan Leslie isn't one of my favorites. So I wasn't expecting much when I saw that he had a new video out for his latest single "Addiction." I managed to avoid hearing the song...

Butta | 09/08/2008 at 3:00 PM | Comments (7) | Permalink

Praise & Worship, Video SoulBounce

'Get Up' Then Get Down With Mary Mary

Fresh from mentioning Mary Mary and their oh-so-hot new single a couple days ago, a video is now available for the song for our viewing pleasure. In the clip, we are treated to scenes of Erica and Tina Campbell singing...

Butta | 09/08/2008 at 2:10 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Pause For A Cause

When Bad Performances Happen to Good Causes

The cause? A great one. The song? An empowering one. The live performance? A ridiculous one.After reading about this in the comments section on the "Freedom" post last week, I would be remiss not to mention the song "Just Stand...

Ro | 09/08/2008 at 1:40 PM | Comments (15) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

The Retro Kidz are Fresh for '88 in '08

I don't know what I was thinking, but I didn't realize that The Retro Kidz a) were a rap group, 2) did anything other than show up for photo ops and video shoots and III) were anything more than a...

Butta | 09/08/2008 at 12:15 PM | Comments (8) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Estelle's 'American Boy' Gets Remade Before It Gets Old...But It's A Good Thing

We recently made mention of chanteuse Jazmine Sullivan's remakes of some of her latest tracks, which I found particularly interesting because, by my best approximation, remakes are usually done within a year or two of the release of the original....

ill Mami | 09/08/2008 at 11:30 AM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Media Watch

The LA Times Explores 'Retro-Futurism' in Contemporary R&B

The Los Angeles Times posted a fairly interesting article on its site dedicated to contemporary R&B this past Sunday entitled "Ne-Yo, Keri Hilson and the style that lasts: R&B." Once getting beyond the first few paragraphs of flowery descriptors...

Ro | 09/08/2008 at 11:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Soul On Film

Will 'Soul Men' Be The Real Deal?

Now that the trailer for the upcoming Bernie Mac/Samuel L. Jackson film Soul Men has been officially released, and we get a chance to see the stars in action, all of the sadness surrounding the deaths of both Mac and...

Harlem | 09/08/2008 at 10:30 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Get You Alone

The curtains seem to be closing on Detroit's "Hip Hop Mayor" Kwame Kilpatrick. [DFP]While elsewhere, old school hip hop's -- and another of Michigan's own -- MC Breed, is fighting for his life. [HHDX]Speaking of the old school, Nike's...

ill Mami | 09/08/2008 at 10:00 AM | Comments (7) | Permalink

SoulTube

From the Comfort of the SoulBounce Couch: Live-Blogging the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards

8:00 Welcome to the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards Live-Blog. C'mon and join me in my misery.8:04 The 2008 VMA Opening Act is so far, so dry.8:04 Oh look, there's T.I. Is that velvet?8:05 Sway is in a helicopter high...

Butta | 09/07/2008 at 11:18 PM | Comments (51) | Permalink

Admin Announcements, SoulTube

Tune In TONIGHT! SoulBounce to Live-Blog the 2008 MTV VMA's

Against my better judgment, I, Butta, have made an 11th hour decision to live-blog the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards. This will be my first time live-blogging any fare from MTV for SoulBounce, because, in all honesty, they cater to...

Butta | 09/07/2008 at 4:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Diggin' in the Crates

Diggin' In Robin Thicke's Crates

With all this recent racial drama surrounding Robin Thicke I'm gonna do something radical right now and talk about the man's music. Imagine that! Regardless of what else is going on, his upcoming CD, Something Else, is one of the...

Butta | 09/05/2008 at 6:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise

What Was to Blame For Michael's Absence at the BMI Awards Last Night?

Last night the Jacksons were awarded the lifetime achievement BMI Icon award during the BMI Urban Awards ceremony held in Beverly Hills. Tito, Jackie, Marlon, Jermaine and Jackie were all in attendance. The ever elusive Michael, however, was nowhere to...

Ro | 09/05/2008 at 5:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise

Janet and Label Turn a 'Def' Ear to One Another

How fitting is it that Janet Jackson added LL Cool J, another Def Jam artist and one due to depart, to her tour? They should almost be calling it the "Eff Def Jam" tour, since Janet has recently revealed "I...

nOvaMatic | 09/05/2008 at 3:32 PM | Comments (16) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

New Videos From Strong Arm Steady, Big Pooh & Heltah Skeltah

This week's videos are all for the hip-hop heads. Strong Arm Steady reps lovely for the city of lost angels, while Big Pooh of Little Brother fame holds it down for North Cacalacky and Heltah Skeltah got the city that...

Butta | 09/05/2008 at 2:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

First Spin, Praise & Worship

Mary Mary Implores You to 'Get Up'

Whatever you want to call the great news that was delivered late last night -- a blessing, an inevitability, a sign of good judgment -- a giving of thanks is absolutely due. The news that Mary Mary will be releasing...

Ro | 09/05/2008 at 12:00 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Letter From the Editor, Yes We Can!

We'd Like to Thank the Academy...[Yes We Did!]

I know there were many of you looking forward to my complete dismantling of the Internets if SoulBounce didn't win any Black Weblog Awards. Well I'm sorry to inform you that we rightfully won for Best Music Blog (popular and judges'...

nOvaMatic | 09/05/2008 at 11:26 AM | Comments (29) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: It's This One Thing That Got Me Trippin'

SoulBounce Wins Black Weblog Award for Best Music Blog and Judges' Pick for Best Blog Design! [BWA] Sol-Angel sold 49,000 during its first week of release. That's great news for Solange; her debut album sold less than half that...

Ro | 09/05/2008 at 10:00 AM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Battle of the Beats

Who Did Jazmine Sullivan Justice? Dondria or Brandon Hines?

You know you are a bad mamma jamma when you have people covering your songs and your debut album hasn't even dropped yet. Such is the case with Jazmine Sullivan. A quick trip around YouTube will find a box of...

Butta | 09/04/2008 at 6:00 PM | Comments (8) | Permalink

Diggin' in the Crates

Diggin' In Shanice's Crates

With the countdown still a fresh memory as well as a reminder of how much we still love the old school, we've been diggin' in the crates all week, looking for some hidden gems from artists that are due for...

Harlem | 09/04/2008 at 5:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Media Watch

In 2008, You're Allowed to Call 2Pac Overrated

Is 2Pac overrated? Blender seems to think so and kudos to them! Whether you agree with them or not, more publications should be willing to voice opinions like this instead of regurgitating the party line. Many of you may see...

nOvaMatic | 09/04/2008 at 4:09 PM | Comments (22) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise

How Far Back Into Musical History Should Amy Dig?

About a week ago there was news that the poster-child for the recent Motown revival, Amy Winehouse, will be using music from the original The Wizard of Oz soundtrack as inspiration for her next album. Really? A Winehouse rendition of...

Ro | 09/04/2008 at 1:30 PM | Comments (12) | Permalink

Sh*t or Shinola?

Does Usher's 'Ladies-Only' Tour Make You Wanna...

Cringe? Scream? Run out and buy tickets? Leave the one you're with and start a new relationship with...? (Sorry, couldn't help it.) But seriously, when news that Usher will be hitting the road for an intimate, 15-city sweep called the...

Harlem | 09/04/2008 at 1:00 PM | Comments (18) | Permalink

Interviews

Behind The Groove With Peven Everett

Any fan of soulful house music has probably tapped their feet, snapped their fingers or broken out into a fully choreographed dance routine when Peven Everett's music comes on. There is no way that you cannot jack your body when...

Butta | 09/04/2008 at 12:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Rap Snacks

Book of Rhymes

Did you know that Michael Eric Dyson was writing a book based solely on Nas' Illmatic? "Why for?" you ponder. Well, Illmatic is the "greatest Hip Hop album ever" and the main work Nas fans call upon when qualifying whatever new...

nOvaMatic | 09/04/2008 at 11:24 AM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Brandy's Video for 'Right Here (Departed)' Is Right On Time

Last month, when we first played Brandy's new single, "Right Here (Departed)," I immediately started wondering what the concept for the video would be. So, when I saw that the clip had its world premiere last night, I was excited....

Harlem | 09/04/2008 at 11:00 AM | Comments (12) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Come On Shortie If You Think You Can Roll

Stevie's still Wonder-ful! He's up next for the very prestigious Gershwin Prize. [BB]From Wonder-ful to Wonder bread, Britney's up next to kick off the VMAs this week. Yawn. Wake me if she misses a lip sync. [People]From Wonder bread...

Harlem | 09/04/2008 at 10:00 AM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Media Watch

Let's Pretend This Whole VIBE/Thicke Thing Never Happened

But first an apology. I was so unfair to VIBE last week when we were discussing the Robin Thicke nontroversy. My willingless to go after them so hard had nothing to do with VIBE specifically, but moreso my mounting frustration with...

nOvaMatic | 09/03/2008 at 3:23 PM | Comments (7) | Permalink

Soul-Poll

What's the Most Played-Out Trend in Hip Hop and R&B Right Now?

Calm down, children! This is one of our least-intense Soul Polls ever. Occasionally, we can spark serious discourse about music or provide you with a platform to just poke a little good-natured fun. Today's poll would be the latter. If forced to...

nOvaMatic | 09/03/2008 at 1:21 PM | Comments (27) | Permalink

Bounce Back

Where Is Tony Rich? On Hidden Beach with a New Album About to Drop.

Sometimes in the middle of night I wake up in a cold sweat and wonder to myself "Where is Tony Rich?!" before rocking myself back to sleep singing "Nobody Knows" like a sweet lullaby. OK, OK, maybe I'm exaggerating, but...

Butta | 09/03/2008 at 12:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise, UK Bounce

Estelle's 'American Boy' Removed from iTunes by Warner To Trigger Sales, Hurts Them Instead

Regardless of the argument that artistry should trump sales when it comes to music, money still matters to major record labels and thus matters to the artists they sign. So it comes as no shock that a record label would...

Ro | 09/03/2008 at 10:40 AM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Whatcha Gonna Do

Methinks Jazmine Sullivan forgot to button her shirt. [C+D]With the loss of another company, is Damon Dash is going from classy to ashy? [BV]Ne-Yo is about to become a little richer thanks to R. Kelly. [E!]Ludacris' resume will get...

Butta | 09/03/2008 at 10:00 AM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Diggin' in the Crates

Diggin' In Syleena Johnson's Crates (On Her Birthday!)

Today was originally supposed to be the release date for Syleena Johnson's next musical opus, Chapter 4: Labor Pains, to commemorate both her birthday and the album dropping on the day after Labor Day. Well, plans have changed and...

Butta | 09/02/2008 at 6:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Soul Cynic

No, Spike. The Exact Opposite Will Happen

We all know that Barack Obama is a powerful figure, but is he really powerful enough to galvanize the Black creative community into generating better output? Yes, according to Spike Lee: "I believe artists have to lead the way. The same...

nOvaMatic | 09/02/2008 at 4:19 PM | Comments (10) | Permalink

I Was There, Video SoulBounce

Musiq Redeems Himself With 'SoBeautiful'

Musiq Soulchild fans can breathe a sigh of relief. After being subjected to that wretched song as the first single from his next album, I am here to tell you the man hasn't sold out! Whereas I don't know about...

Butta | 09/02/2008 at 3:25 PM | Comments (8) | Permalink

First Spin

Shanice Remakes Stacy Lattisaw. And We Like It.

As we told you a few months ago, R&B singer Shanice is back on the scene, promising a new album before the end of the year. She's definitely on the grind, providing unending entertainment through video diaries on her YouTube...

Harlem | 09/02/2008 at 2:30 PM | Comments (10) | Permalink

Soul Cynic

Five Reasons Why 'Freedom' is Impossible Today

In a nostalgia-induced stupor the other day, I stumbled upon the song "Freedom" while clicking around YouTube. I mean, I remember the song itself but seeing the sheer number of successful black female rappers, singers and musicians moved me. It...

Ro | 09/02/2008 at 1:45 PM | Comments (14) | Permalink

SoulTube

J*DaVeY Performing Live on Ellen

Last night, while doing my daily net surfing, I came across this YouTube video of J*DaVeY performing the track "Dollar or More" on the Ellen DeGeneres Show. Being an avid watcher of the show (dont judge me!), I knew it...

Harlem | 09/02/2008 at 11:30 AM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Releases

The Foreign Exchange's 'Leave It All Behind' Cover & Tracklisting

The Foreign Exchange's Connected counts as one of the few albums released over the past few years that kept me from completely giving up on Hip Hop and Soul music. (Did I say that out loud?) We've been waiting for...

nOvaMatic | 09/02/2008 at 10:40 AM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Dip It Low, Pick It Up Slow

Leona Lewis is pissed that people will finally know what she sounded like before anyone cared who she was. [AA]DJ Stylus reveals himself as one of the many bouncers that contributed to our Top 100. [VC]Solange's success brings Beyoncé to...

nOvaMatic | 09/02/2008 at 10:00 AM | Comments (7) | Permalink

Top 100 Soul/R&B Songs

#1: Donny Hathaway 'A Song for You'

There are so many songs that could've been chosen to be #1 on our countdown. So many songs that would've satisfied both the masses and the staff. So many songs that would've made you dance, or cry, or just sing...

Harlem | 09/01/2008 at 6:00 PM | Comments (24) | Permalink

Diggin' in the Crates

Diggin' In Eric Benét's Crates

As much as we love to look forward here at SoulBounce and talk about what's now and what's next, you should know by now that we love to look back, too. To that end, all this week I'll be diggin'...

Butta | 09/01/2008 at 5:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

First Spin

Glenn Lewis is Back for More with 'It's Just Like'

There are more than a few artists who we've been waiting to serve up some piping hot new music here at SBHQ. Maxwell, Whitney Houston, Maxwell, D'Angelo and Maxwell immediately come to mind. However, there's another artist who we're hungry...

Butta | 09/01/2008 at 4:00 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Releases

Terrence Howard Drops This Week. Are You Buying?

Another day, another $10-15. This is the part of the week where we put our money where our mouths are and reconcile all the pontification with purchasing. What are you buying? Well, for starters, Terrence Howard drops this week. (Cut to:...

nOvaMatic | 09/01/2008 at 3:27 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Industry & Culture, Media Watch

Solange's Sophomore Effort Struggles, Raises Larger Concerns

Oh, Solange. After uncomfortably watching her clumsily throw sass in frustration at that news anchor and then gazing in amazement at the response video she released soon after, it appeared as though the increasing momentum built by the debacle might...

Ro | 09/01/2008 at 1:30 PM | Comments (24) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise

Another 'Unauthorized' Leak, Another Artist That Doesn't Get It

Last week, we asked our intrepid readers if labels should hold themselves accountable for leaks and the response was an overwhelming "yes." Sure, the blogs and downloaders perpetuate the entire mess, but leaks don't originate from nowhere. Can someone please tell...

nOvaMatic | 09/01/2008 at 11:54 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Get It Crackin' If You Like

KRS-One does the unthinkable. [HHDX] Solange gets some 'act right' for the Today Show. [PC] Suge Knight learns that not everything stays in Vegas. [GUK]Black Hollywood was all a bit verklempt after Obama's DNC speech. [SH] Our prayers go...

ill Mami | 09/01/2008 at 10:00 AM | Permalink