Archive » February 2009

This page contains 145 entries posted in February 2009

Friday February 27

Video SoulBounce

It's Solange's 'Destiny' To Sing

Earlier this week AOL Black Voices put their latest installment of The Bridge music series online with Solange as the featured artist. Solo and her band performed tracks from Sol-Angel and the Hadley St. Dreams, including "T.O.N.Y.," "Cosmic Journey,"...

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Friday February 27

Video SoulBounce

New Videos From Lemar, Brick & Lace, Jadakiss & Scorcher

Get your passports ready because this week's new video roundup is an international affair. First stop is the UK with a new video from Lemar who is feeling the "Weight of the World" after losing his lady love--literally. This is...

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Friday February 27

Video SoulBounce

Can We Blame The Video On Alcohol Too, Jamie?

Is there anyone more jaw-droppingly fly that could make an appearance in a music video than Little Opie Cunningham himself, Ron Howard? Who but him could bring a level of status so high that Forrest Whitaker, Samuel L. Jackson, Jake...

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Friday February 27

SoulTube

Tune In To Jennifer Hudson On 'Oprah' Today

Fresh from appearances (and wins!) at the Grammy and NAACP Image Awards, Jennifer Hudson is headed to Oprah today to chat it up with Auntie O on her syndicated talk show. This will be Jennifer's first time on Oprah's couch...

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Friday February 27

First Spin

Another Remix From Mary J. & Ne-Yo To 'Love'

As we await new projects from both Mary J. Blige and Ne-Yo, a song surfaced yesterday featuring the multiple Grammy Award-winning homies that might just tide us over. Supposedly appearing on a mixtape, hot off the presses is a remix...

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Friday February 27

SoulTube, Video SoulBounce

Stevie Wonder Celebrated At The White House In Grand Fashion

Last night PBS broadcast the In Performance at the White House celebration of Stevie Wonder in what was a star-studded, historic event. It was star-studded because amongst the Washington dignitaries in attendance were the likes of SoulBounce faves India.Arie, Mary...

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Friday February 27

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: I Wanna Be Your Man, Baby

Is Tyrese actually capable of paying all the money his ex-wife is requesting in alimony? Wow. [NB]Rihanna was spotted in Mexico after spending some time in LA and Barbados. [E!]Could Orem, Utah be the perfect city in which to...

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Thursday February 26

Mixtape Roundup

SoulBounce Blended & Beat Vol. 4

This month's Blended & Beat continues in the spirit of previous mixes, with beats that are uptempo, jazzy and funky. The Platinum Pied Pipers aka PPP provide the bookends this time around, with a tasty center of Old School-meets-Dance...

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Thursday February 26

Video SoulBounce

Eric Roberson Spits That Hot Fire

If you've ever had the privilege of seeing Eric Roberson live in concert, then you know that this dude is pretty nice with the freestyles where he typically takes words given to him by the audience and makes a song...

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Thursday February 26

Artist Blogs, Hot Like Ayah

Hot Like Ayah: 'A Peace For Gaza' Wrap-Up

Last night's "A Peace For Gaza" concert was awesome!   Andrew at Roundtable Entertainment did a great job of helping out and promoting the event. Rafeef Ziadah, speaker for the Palestine House, was very informative and full of energy....

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Thursday February 26

Video SoulBounce

Keelay & Zaire Bring Us 'The Times'

Although this video has been out for more than a minute, it's worth posting because it's been picking up rotation on a few music video networks and because the album it's from, Ridin' High, is set to come out in...

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Thursday February 26

Media Watch

Eartha Kitt, Who Actually Starred in Films, Not Remembered at Oscars

I didn't watch the telecast of the Academy Awards and rarely ever do. I'm just not that big on celebrity worship and honoring a bunch of boring movies I never wanted to see in the first place, but that's just me....

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Thursday February 26

Video SoulBounce

Behind The Scenes With Melanie Fiona

A few weeks ago Motown Records held a showcase for Melanie Fiona in NYC that our man about town Harlem had a chance to attend, and he came back with rave reviews about the Canadian sensation. And now the rest...

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Thursday February 26

First Spin, Jazzy Ways

Soil & 'Pimp' Sessions Bring You A Funky 'Fantastic Planet'

Since discovering my new favorite Japanese Jazz fusion band, Soil & "Pimp" Sessions, I have been steadily bumping their album to enhance just about any situation I happen to be in. Their first album to be made available in the...

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Thursday February 26

First Spin

Reflection Eternal & Bootsy Collins Have A Sexy 'Internet Connection' For You

When I was a hot younger thang, there was something just oh-so-special about Kleer's "Intimate Connection." Every time I hear this song, it instantly takes me back to strolling along 125th Street in Harlem in the summertime trying not too...

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Thursday February 26

First Spin

Montell Jordan & CeCe Peniston Have More To 'Say'

No, your eyes do not deceive you. Montell Jordan and CeCe Peniston are not only back, but they are singing together on the new song "He Say, She Say." Just seeing the names Montell Jordan and CeCe Peniston side-by-side...

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Thursday February 26

First Spin

John Legend Wants You To 'Lay Your Head' On His Shoulder

Yesterday a new track from John Legend surfaced online, but it's straight old school. "Lay Your Head On My Shoulder" takes its cues from the 1960s, when artists who we now consider legends we're just getting started. John's voice...

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Thursday February 26

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: All I Want Is Affection

Remember these photos of former Kris Kross member Chris "Mac Daddy" Kelly? Well, he insists people have it backwards...just like his pants. [CL]Usher testified in front of the House Education and Labor Committee about ways to expand community service...

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Wednesday February 25

Kicks & Giggles

Bey-sus Fierce, It's Go-Go Gadget Gospel!

Few things are more crowd pleasing/insulting than a nice gospel/secular music mashup during praise and worship on a Sunday morning. Maybe it's that awkward moment when in any other context (read: the club, your living room while watching music videos)...

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Wednesday February 25

SoulTube

Kanye West Has A Story To Tell On VH1

If you been tuned into VH1 this week to watch For the Love of Ray J, don't act like I'm the only one, then you've probably seen commercials for the Saturday night premiere of Kanye West's episode of Storytellers. Ye...

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Wednesday February 25

Interviews

Behind the Groove with Syleena Johnson

In this day, it's not uncommon to find singers who can't sing topping the charts. But to the discerning music lover, real singers with real voices and real talent still matter. One such artist who falls into that category...

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Wednesday February 25

First Spin

Chester Gregory Only Has 'Eyes 4 U'

If you're up on your indie soul music, then you've probably heard of the name Chester Gregory before. Chester has been a staple on Broadway for a number of years, appearing in productions of The Jackie Wilson Story, Shrek, and...

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Wednesday February 25

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: We All Want A Love Bizarre

Rappers are hard pressed during this current recession, which means fewer iced-out grills and spinning rims. [RF]Congratulations to New School rapper Blu who was recently signed to Sire Records. [XXL]Watch out Hip Hop bloggers! Former XXL editor-in-chief Elliot Wilson hopes to journalistically crush...

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Tuesday February 24

Diggin' in the Crates, Reviews

Revisiting Michael Jackson's Golden Years

I don't know of too many adult vocalists (male or female) who sound better than Michael Jackson did when he was still in his formative stages. Young Michael's range and phrasing surprise me to this day--just take this early...

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Tuesday February 24

Releases

Selected Dilla Productions To Officially Be Released As A Compilation

Although there are several mixtapes, tributes and homegrown collections of J Dilla's work floating around the Internet, there's been no official collection of his work with other artists. That is, until now. Enter Rapster Records who, on 3/31, are set...

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Tuesday February 24

Artist Blogs, Hot Like Ayah

Hot Like Ayah: New Music News

I'm sick this week. The flu has caught up with me. I was going to video blog, but the sight of Kleenex and sickness is better kept off camera! LOL   To be honest, what's been on my mind lately...

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Tuesday February 24

First Spin

Melanie Fiona 'Kills' It With New Track

We can probably all attest to being, at some point, in a situation where our suitor is driving us mad and doing some grimy things that call their devotion into question. But the love is so strong that you just...

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Tuesday February 24

A Soulful Noise, Events

Adele Is Helming US Tour

Adele, fresh from her Grammy wins and still teeming with critical praise, will be headlining a tour across the United States. She's definitely proving that chasing pavements is also synonymous with hustling hard, but is still really humble and pragmatic...

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Tuesday February 24

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: C'mon, Baby, Do It

Congratulations to Deborah Cox, who just gave birth to her third child, Kaila Michelle. [BET]MC Hammer, Kris Kross or Kanye--who tops your list for the worst Hip Hop fashion trends? [SC]INTERNET BEEF ALERT: If you were on Twitter last...

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Monday February 23

Bounce-Worthy

Bounce-Worthy: BSTC

Chicago is the home to many things--deep dish pizza, Garrett popcorn, and President Barack Obama to name a few. But one of the Windy City's most famous homegrown exports is a style of music that gained popularity in the...

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Monday February 23

Soul Cynic

Hip Hop Republicans Coming Soon To Your Hood

Michael Steele, newly appointed first ever Black President to the Republican National Commitee, wants to count the Hip Hop community as one its valued members. Steele is one of the more liberal conservatives out there, and to prove it, the...

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Monday February 23

First Spin

Have a 'Fling' With Jagged Edge

Well look who we have here. None other than Jagged Edge with some new flava for your ears. Over the past year or so, a number of JE tunes have leaked onto the net, but they haven't really been that...

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Monday February 23

Sh*t or Shinola?

Tyler Perry Wants to Help J-Hud Shoot Herself in the Foot

Tyler Perry has publicly expressed that he's written one of his million dollar country-fried masterpieces with Jennifer Hudson in mind. Also, he's stated they have a mutual interest in working with each other. Luckily, their schedules have prevented this idea...

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Monday February 23

First Spin

DJ Dhundee Is In It To Win It

Have a bad case of the Mondays? I know I do, and luckily, you get to reap the benefits of my beat digging adventures that will hopefully rid you of any excessive weekend longing. Dhundee, Baltimore native and Brooklyn transplant,...

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Monday February 23

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Ice Cream Castles In The Summertime

T-Pain had to cancel a concert in Guyana because of death and kidnapping threats. We promise they weren't from us. [SR]Michael Jackson is in talks to do a series of 30 concerts in London prior to going on a...

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Friday February 20

First Spin, House of Soul

'Feel' Lisa Shaw

Soulful and deep house heads are intimately familiar with the work of Lisa Shaw. From her days on the Naked Music label with the now classic "Always" to her work with DJ Miguel Migs, Lisa has one of the most...

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Friday February 20

I Was There, Video SoulBounce

Laura Izibor Dazzles DC

Tuesday night I had the opportunity to attend a showcase for our latest Bounce-Worthy artist, Laura Izibor. The event was put on by Atlantic Records and held at the legendary Bohemian Caverns in Washington, DC. Prior to that evening I...

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Friday February 20

First Spin, Free Music

Leela James Says 'It's A Man's Man's Man's World'

A couple of weeks ago we hipped you to the fact that Leela James would be returning next month with a new album on a new label, and a quick glance at the album cover shows that she's sporting...

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Friday February 20

Video SoulBounce

New Videos From KiD CuDi, K'Naan, Joell Ortiz & Kanye West

Welcome to another roundup of some of the most interesting videos to hit the net this week. Up first is KiD CuDi with the video for "Day 'N' Nite," which features some cool animation around the live action. Next in...

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Friday February 20

First Spin

Cobe Obeah's Message Is 'Low Key'

For the sake of argument, let's just assume that I am older than most people reading this right now. That being said, I grew up with a certain "knowledge of self," as it was popularly called. While African motifs pop...

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Friday February 20

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Cheap Chicks, Not Stricken By Poverty Chicks

The long-awaited (?) Tupac Shakur biopic may never see the light of day. [DS]Diddy is ready to take you on the Last Train to Paris. Methinks you might want to miss this train. [MTV]Tameka's on her way back home. [CL]Did...

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Thursday February 19

Mixtape Roundup

For The Music Fans: The Era of Erro

If there's one artist who embodies the independent spirit of SoulBounce it's Eric Roberson. He's the quintessential entertainer, a focused businessman and a cool, down-to-earth cat. When we got word last year that he'd been working on some new material,...

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Thursday February 19

Video SoulBounce

Let's Be 'Spies' With Sy Smith

With American Idol back on our television screens for another season, we're in the thick of getting our weekly dose of amateur singers, snarky and/or loopy judges and an uber-annoying host. But if you're a soul music aficionado like...

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Thursday February 19

Contests & Giveaways, Events

NYC Bouncers: Win Tickets To See Mark de Clive-Lowe & Vanessa Freeman This Weekend!

NYC party people where ya at? This Saturday night Mark de Clive-Lowe and Vanessa Freeman will be the featured artists at the Sol Ascension global soul dance party at S.O.B.'s and SoulBounce is giving away a pair of tickets...

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Thursday February 19

Artist Blogs, Hot Like Ayah

Hot Like Ayah: Thinking About The Future, Remembering The Past

A couple of things have been on my mind lately, the first is technology.   In this age and time, it isn't uncommon to be introduced to new technology every day. Life is changing fast and so is technology....

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Thursday February 19

Sh*t or Shinola?

Revisiting the 6 Reasons Why The Roots' Extended Break From Touring Isn't Such A Bad Thing

In light of recent developments involving The Roots' shiny new gig as Jimmy Fallon's Late Night house band, we thought it prudent to re-visit DJ Stylus's 6 points for why this won't be such a bad look (mostly the point that...

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Thursday February 19

A Soulful Noise

Is Jazmine Sullivan the New Jennifer Hudson?

It's impossible to adequately compare award show darling Jennifer Hudson and recently snubbed Jazmine Sullivan. The effort is not worth the ends. Nevertheless, Jazmine Sullivan is unfazed by her five Grammy snubs (robbed!) and is not wasting her time in...

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Thursday February 19

Relax in Paradise

Joe Cuba (1931-2009)

NYC salsa band leader Joe Cuba dies at 78 [USAT] Joe Cuba [Wiki]...

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Thursday February 19

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Goody Goody

Shakes on a plane: Solange had an adverse reaction to medicine during a cross-country flight. She's fine. [BH]Duffy cleaned up at the Brit Awards. [IDOL]No constraints could mean no Blueprint 3 from Jay-Z anytime soon. Oh, boy. [MTV]Please, everyone. Get...

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Wednesday February 18

Soul Cynic

The Importance of Listening To the Words

As I was explaining to someone earlier today, sometimes when you don't like something, you don't have to list the reasons. When certain songs do not appeal to you as a listener, you can spend an inordinate amount of time...

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Wednesday February 18

SoulTube, Video SoulBounce

Syleena Johnson Sings 'Maury Povich' For Maury Povich

If you watch daytime television, then you know all about Maury Povich and his talk show. Maury isn't quite the three-ring circus that The Jerry Springer Show is, but it has its fair share of ignorance on the regular. Whether...

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Wednesday February 18

Video SoulBounce

k-os Releases New Video '4,3,2,1'

Sometimes it takes a video to remind you of how long it's been since you've heard from somebody. It isn't like k-os has been gone per se, but this new video "4,3,2,1" from his forthcoming album Yes!, is exciting like...

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Wednesday February 18

Reviews

PPP Presents An 'Abundance' Of Good Music

We're still in the throes of winter, but it's a little less cold in the D now that PPP have finally returned with their second album, Abundance. The title could not be more fitting. Principal members Waajeed and Saadiq have...

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Wednesday February 18

First Spin

Van Hunt Releases A Plethora Of New Music For Your Pleasure

It's been three years since Van Hunt has released any new material, and--as one of his many fans--the void he has left is palpable. Sure, his unreleased Popular, a fatality of a split with his then record label was a...

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Wednesday February 18

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: They Wanna Know

Disney's The Princess and The Frog recently released the movie's toy line and the voice of The Princess herself, Anika Noni Rose, was in attendance. [SR]Patty LaBelle requested a towel to wipe the funk off of her feet while...

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Tuesday February 17

Video SoulBounce

Full Crate Delivers A 'Fly' Track

I've been becoming more acquainted with Full Crate who, along with FS Green, has a series of mixtapes, Mixing Monthly, that were recently mentioned as one my current faves. It's also been nice to hear that he's recently released a very delightful track onto...

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Tuesday February 17

Bounce-Worthy

Bounce-Worthy: Laura Izibor

Ireland isn't exactly known as a hotbed of Soul music, but Laura Izibor plans to change that notion. The Dublin native is considered one of the genres most anticipated new artists. As a result of her being a singer/songwriter/piano...

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Tuesday February 17

Video SoulBounce

Quddus Is 'Humbled' And 'Wide Open'

You may know Quddus as a former MTV VJ and a current correspondent for TVOne Access, but you may not know that prior to that career move that he was a spoken word artist. Like many of us who put...

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Tuesday February 17

Artist Blogs, Hot Like Ayah

Hot Like Ayah: In the Mix With Slakah the Beatchild

Where do I start with this dude right here? Slakah the Beatchild and I met a very long time ago when I was first starting my musical journey. OK, truth be told, I bugged the hell out of him....

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Tuesday February 17

First Spin

DJ Deckstream's Soundtracks Leave Us Wanting More

I'll be honest. I had no idea who DJ Deckstream was until I stumbled upon track after track from his recently released Soundtracks 2 album. The part that is a bit discouraging about his emergence into my consciousness is the...

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Tuesday February 17

Contests & Giveaways, Events

NYC Bouncers: Win Tickets to Attend Sol Village Tomorrow Night!

It's that time once again for Sol Village to pop off in NYC, and SoulBounce and S.O.B.'s have got you covered with free tickets to this month's event on Wednesday night.Eric Roberson will be back to host the event and...

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Tuesday February 17

Events

New Alice Russell Tour Dates Announced

After the fall release of her last album, Pot of Gold, and a mini tour in support of it, Alice Russell is returning to the road this March as spring awakes from its slumber. Alice's 13-city US tour kicks off...

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Tuesday February 17

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: A Man Don't Really Love You If He Hits You

Does the optimism of the Obama presidency herald a surge in crappy Pop music? [MSNBC]Marlon Jackson is backing a theme park in Nigeria. The theme? Slavery. [GAWKER]Did Suge Knight catch a beatdown? Is such a thing possible? [HHDX]LaBelle rocked...

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Monday February 16

Pause For A Cause

Jay Smooth and Elizabeth Berry Discuss Domestic Violence In the Industry

Some time after Big Punisher passed away in 2000 an article by Elizabeth Mendez Berry surfaced in VIBE magazine, in which the celebrated MC was revealed to have beaten his wife Liza Rios with a lead pipe for not changing...

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Monday February 16

Video SoulBounce

Royce Da 5'9" Illustrates A Man's Biggest Fantasy And Worst Nightmare

Lest you thought that Royce Da 5'9" had fallen off, he is coming back with a vengeance in '09. His new album, Street Hop, hits streets and shelves on April 21st, and the video for the first single, "Part...

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Monday February 16

Events

Estelle To 'Shine' Stateside With American Tour

"American Boy" lover Estelle is parlaying her recent Grammy win into headlining a US Tour. After nearly a year of being on radars on either side of the pond and releasing one of the top singles and albums of 2008,...

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Monday February 16

Media Watch

Music Press: Ryan Leslie's Debut is 'Just Right'

After innumerable setbacks, Ryan Leslie's self-titled official debut hit physical and virtual shelves last week. Reviews for the release by mainstream music press are generally in favor of the wunderkind who, while still bearing partial blame for unleashing Cassie upon...

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Monday February 16

Relax in Paradise

Estelle Bennett (1941-2009)

Estelle Bennett dies at 67; one of the Ronettes [LAT]Estelle Bennett [Wiki][Photo: Peter Kramer]...

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Monday February 16

A Soulful Noise, UK Bounce

Rumor Control: Adele Has No Plans To Work With Estelle

For all those who got excited when they heard the widely reported news that British singers Adele and Estelle would sing a duet together at some point this year, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but it's...

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Monday February 16

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Got No Time For Fake Ones

Even the greats had to start somewhere. From the vaults, Lauryn Hill gets booed at The Apollo at the tender age of 13. [TE]Grace Jones, 60 years young, looked stunning at the Xuly Bey fashion show during New York's...

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Friday February 13

Listicle

Sexy, Soulful Visual Aids For Your Valentine's Day Prepping

We here at SoulBounce are avid purveyors of the sexy. You needn't search far for supporting evidence of this. How could we not be? The music we love and promote on the site often lends itself to a level of...

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Friday February 13

Mixtape Roundup

Want To Know What Mixtapes We're Listening To? Of Course You Do!

It's been awhile since we did a fully-fledged Mixtape Roundup, but never fear. We're back in full effect mode to allay your mixtape anxiety. Amongst ourselves, we're a pretty well-rounded group of people with varied yet sophisticated musical tastes. And while...

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Friday February 13

First Spin, Pause For A Cause

Estelle Covers Stevie Wonder For a Good Cause

Can you imagine what it would feel like to have Stevie Wonder handpick you from every singer in the world to rerecord one of his most widely recognized and adored songs? Yeah, neither can we. But Estelle knows how...

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Friday February 13

Video SoulBounce

New Videos From Black Milk, Evidence, Grandmaster Flash, Asher Roth & Mz Streamz

This week's crop of new videos is for the Hip Hop Junkies. Up first is a video from one of the nicest rappers in the game right now, Black Milk. He's joined by fellow Detroiter Royce Da 5'9" on "Losing...

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Friday February 13

Interviews

Behind the Groove with Peter Hadar

Something that we love to do here at SoulBounce is to expose people to artists they need to know and music they need to hear. One such artist who we gave the Bounce-Worthy distinction to last year was Newark,...

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Friday February 13

Soul Fashioned

Surprise Your Sweetie With Scintillating Gifts For Valentine's Day

It's inescapable. Don't deny it. You know exactly what I'm talking about. Valentine's Day is tomorrow and whether you're in it to win it or would rather sit this one out, someone you know will likely be batting their eyelashes...

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Friday February 13

First Spin

Marsha Ambrosius Teases With a 'Valentine's Day Confession'

With today being Valentine's Day Eve, we're sure that you're gathering up all your goodies in order to be bad tomorrow. And it seems like everyone has the lover's holiday on their mind. Last night on Twitter, Marsha Ambrosius shared...

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Friday February 13

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Last Night

Tameka Foster, Usher's wife, is recovering after suffering cardiac arrest while getting liposuction in Brazil. [AP]A viral video featuring Will.I.Am and Hugh Jackman was released and will raise awareness for "Nomad Two Worlds," an art project about and featuring the...

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Thursday February 12

Mixtape Roundup

For The Lovers: A Late Night With Janet Jackson

Because Valentine's Day is right around the corner and we already know how you feel about Janet, it was our duty to put together the ultimate Janet-themed babymaking blend. This was a no-brainer; even the folks that aren't devout Janet...

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Thursday February 12

Jazzy Ways, Video SoulBounce

What's In A Name? Soil & 'Pimp' Sessions Force Our Hand

I know what you're thinking. A band named Soil & 'Pimp' Sessions? Except that when we really thought about it, is this really that much different than Dirt McGirt a/k/a Ol Dirty Bastard? Or the late and beloved Pimp C?...

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Thursday February 12

Video SoulBounce

Black Star Reunites, Backpackers Rejoice

Now that the disappointment that was the Grammy Awards are over, we can reflect more upon the events that made this year's Grammy weekend in LA great. In addition to many fantastic parties, we also caught wind of some performances,...

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Thursday February 12

Artist Blogs, Hot Like Ayah

Hot Like Ayah: Mind Candy

Hola! First off, I gotta say thank you all for welcoming me in to the SoulBounce family! I truly appreciate it! I'd like to address those of you who care deeply about the integrity of SoulBounce, as so do I. It's quite interesting to be...

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Thursday February 12

Diggin' in the Crates

Siik Teaches Us Our ABC's

After making Beyoncé's "Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)" more readily digestible, a lot of folks 'round these parts were checking for Los Angeles area beat freak Siik. For those still not knowing, here's three more remixes to get...

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Thursday February 12

Video SoulBounce

Jennifer Hudson's 'If This Isn't Love'

It's exceptionally hard not to project all of the tragedy in Jennifer Hudson's life onto everything she's done lately, including this new video for her next single "If This Isn't Love." In it she sings, poses, and looks as gorgeous...

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Thursday February 12

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: She's Giving Me Joy, Joy, Joy

In the latest Chris Brown/Rihanna news, he's apparently hiding out in Las Vegas. Wonder what the mayor has to say about that?[E!/USAT]Queen Latifah is scheduled to sing during the Oscars. [SP]In addition to speaking on the Chrianna situation, for...

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Wednesday February 11

First Spin

Artists Pay Homage To J Dilla By Reinterpreting Their Favorites

J Dilla's passing has inspired many events and awareness about Lupus, the disease that claimed his life. Three years later, we find more and more artists putting their own twist on Dilla's ethereal beats which means we get to...

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Wednesday February 11

A Soulful Noise

Happy Birthday, D'Angelo!

What do you say to a man all of 35-years-old today, who ushered in the Neo-Soul movement back when that very term was not considered trite and overused? What do you say to a man who wears his emotions...

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Wednesday February 11

Free Music, Industry & Culture

Estelle Lends Her 'Star' Power To Crystal Light

If you watched the Grammy Awards on Sunday night, then you may have seen a new Crystal Light commercial that featured the familiar vocals of Grammy winner Estelle. But the British R&B sensation wasn't just singing any old jingle. Estelle...

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Wednesday February 11

Video SoulBounce

Is Robin Thicke's 'Dreamworld' Yours Too?

I've always felt that this incarnation of Robin Thicke used too much falsetto. He does it extremely well, don't get me wrong, but "Dreamworld" is so refreshing sans the vocal technique. Though this video is shot as slowly and as...

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Wednesday February 11

Soul Cynic

Is Motown Even A Label Anymore?

With all of the press surrounding Motown's 50th anniversary, something sticks out in my mind. Motown, as we've come to know it, does not exist anymore. It appears to not be a label, but more of a "label group," now...

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Wednesday February 11

A Soulful Noise, Video SoulBounce

Calling All Music Fans: Be a Part of Eric Roberson's New Album

We are counting the days until we get our hands on Eric Roberson's new album here at SoulBounce. Since we last checked in with Erro, he has decided to release his next collection in June, and we're 99% sure that...

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Wednesday February 11

UK Bounce

Songs and Truth with James Morrison

I have a real affinity for the Brits. From Simply Red, Sade and Loose Ends to the newer crop of singers and musicians, there is a lot of quality steadily streaming from across the pond, in multiple genres. However, no...

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Wednesday February 11

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Baby I'm Yours If You Want Me

The Foreign Exchange's "Take Off the Blues" is iTunes SOTW. Cop it for free99! [TFEM]Snoop Dogg will release his next CD in conjunction with MTV this fall. [SPIN]Nas and Damian Marley have been quietly working on a new album together....

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Tuesday February 10

Crowd Participation

Name Your Top 5 J Dilla Joints

As any lover of Hip Hop knows, Saturday, 2/7 was the birthday of James Yancey, a/k/a J Dilla or Jay Dee. Today represents the date of his passing 3 years ago, bringing the unofficial Dilla Weekend to a close. To...

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Tuesday February 10

First Spin, Free Music

J.Period Presents 'The [Abstract] Best'

If you're familiar with J.Period, then you know his mixtapes are legendary. They are simply not a collection of songs by an artist we have heard before nor exclusives where you have to endure the DJ shouting at you for...

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Tuesday February 10

First Spin, Free Music

Peter Hadar Delivers A Delicious Valentine

You're going to want to do yourself a favor and put those chocolates you bought for Valentine's Day on ice before you listen to this sizzling, free EP from Peter Hadar. (Or place them within arm's reach and dim those...

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Tuesday February 10

First Spin

Bell Biv Devoe Has Something For 'You'

Yes, you all read that right. Bell. Biv. Devoe. Is back! The infamous side hustle from New Edition members Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins and Ronnie Devoe has returned with some new music for fans new and old. Not that...

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Tuesday February 10

Soul On Film

Will Mariah's Latest Role 'Push' Her To Acting Greatness?

Yes, we know. You've heard all the buzz that came from Salt Lake City a few weeks back as the Sundance Film Festival screened the new Lee Daniels-directed film, Push, based on the novel by Sapphire and winner of the...

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Tuesday February 10

A Soulful Noise

Confirmed: Jam & Lewis Have Reunited with Janet

Full disclosure: While we are generally pleased that Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis are back working with Janet Jackson, let us pray that whatever they're putting together is marinated and slow-cooked. At this point in time, it's too soon to...

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Tuesday February 10

Artist Blogs, Hot Like Ayah

SoulBounce Exclusives: Introducing 'Hot Like Ayah'

Hey World!!   Before we start, I'll include this disclaimer, that my thoughts do not represent those of SoulBounce.com's! LOL   Now that the formalities are over...   It's been a crazy 2009 so far! From Obama, to the...

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Tuesday February 10

SoulTube

Remember The Good Old Days With 'Soul!'

Ladies and gentlemen, the mother lode has been released. I am literally tearing myself away from watching Al Green's hour-long performance on Soul!, a PBS production that ran from 1967-1973 on New York's WNET featuring some of the most prominent...

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Tuesday February 10

Video SoulBounce

If Only Janelle Monáe Had Performed At The Grammys...

Upon learning that she concluded her set at this Grammy party in Los Angeles by jumping into a pool and then climbing a tree, it's clear that a Janelle Monáe performance could have made the Grammy Awards more bearable to...

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Tuesday February 10

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Think About You All the Time

Beyoncé is thismuchcloser to fulfilling her dream of portraying Jesus Christ. [BS]Wrigleys dropped Chris Brown. Sucks to be him right now. [BV]Jennifer Hudson is touring with Robin Thicke this Spring. [PM]Tameka is OK. [C+D]Lil' Kim is joining Dancing With the Stars and...

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Monday February 09

Crowd Participation

Reconciling Our Grammy Picks And Predictions

At the close of last week, your SoulBounce Editors predicted the victors for this year's Grammy Awards in relevant R&B and Hip Hop categories, with our own personal preferences thrown in for good measure. Nearly every nightmarish prediction came...

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Monday February 09

Rap Snacks, Video SoulBounce

De La Soul Plans to Work It Out With Nike

In the event that Kanye's "New Workout Plan" has gotten old, then De La Soul may have the solution for you. The trio who once brought us an ode to big girls with "Baby Phat" has linked up with athletic...

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Monday February 09

Listicle

10 Essential Janet Jackson Rare Grooves

If you're anything like me, you haven't been able to get enough of Janet Jackson's music since she informed us all that "Privacy" is her middle name. Being an icon in the game, there is plenty of material out...

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Monday February 09

A Soulful Noise

Thank Goodness This Doesn't Apply To Us

And by "us," I am referring to you, dear reader because to be on this website at all means that you have refined and discriminating musical taste. Time Magazine recently published an article discussing Auto-Tune and its impact on...

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Monday February 09

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Love's A House, Love's A Home

It's being said that Whitney Houston turned it out at Clive Davis' pre-Grammy bash. You be the judge. [YT]Speaking of this same star-studded Grammy party, well wishes to Usher's wife Tameka who had an emergency in Brazil. [LAT]Post-Clive Davis...

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Sunday February 08

SoulTube

Live Blogging the 51st Annual Grammy Awards

This year's Grammy Awards have come and gone and so has another live blog. We did it a little different this time around and "tweeted" the night's festivities on Twitter with the live feed appearing in this spot during...

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Friday February 06

Crowd Participation

Dissecting the 51st Annual Grammy Award Nominations: Who 'Should' Win? Who 'Will' Win?

The Grammy Awards are like a family reunion, complete with party crashing cousins who no one really wanted to invite anyway, embittered elders who smile condescendingly at all their good-for-nothing progeny, and people make fools of themselves but no one...

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Friday February 06

A Soulful Noise, Reggae Riddims

Happy 64th, Bob Marley!

Bob Marley's influence and legacy is so strong that when I hear multi-generational die-hard fans speak about wishing he was still here you believe it and wish it, too. From his work with The Wailers to his solo career, the...

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Friday February 06

First Spin

Which of These Tracks Passes The SoulBounce Sniff Test?

It's been a hot minute since we've done a Sniff Test, and what better time than today to bring the beat back. This week we're giving a quick listen to four tracks that dropped that may or may not...

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Friday February 06

Video SoulBounce

New Videos from Chester French, Jimmie Reign & Damani

Once again this week's roundup of new videos has a little something for everybody. Up first is Chester French for the hipster set with the video for their song "She Loves Everybody." The subject of the song shows the duo...

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Friday February 06

First Spin, Releases

Nat King Cole & Friends Reanimate His Music With 'Re: Generations'

Much respect to Carole Cole, Nat King Cole's daughter and CEO of King Cole productions for having the intuition to put the Re: Generations album together. The album debuts March 10th and consists of Nat King Cole's original recordings blissfully...

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Friday February 06

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Let Him Know This Love Is Real

With his prostate cancer now in remission, Charlie Wilson is promoting prostate tests and early detection in Black men, and his new album. [BV]From the obvious files: Sasha Fierce (and her choreographers) borrowed moves from The Kids. [VB]Stevie Wonder, Robin...

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Thursday February 05

We Hear

Etta James Got Jokes

And now we come crashing back to reality. For anyone that had visions of 71-year-old "Miss Peaches" whaling on Sasha Fierce, put it out of your mind. It was all a joke! Now where will we direct our self-righteous indignation?"I'm...

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Thursday February 05

Battle of the Beats

Whose 'Showers' Are More Refreshing? M.I.A.'s or Ghostface's?

Welcome to another Sample Slam! The object of this week's battle is "Sunshower," originally recorded by Dr. Buzzard's Original Savannah Band. Although it counts among the many samples for Tribe's "Can I Kick It?", it was heavily and most notably utilized...

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Thursday February 05

A Soulful Noise

Happy Birthday, Bobby Brown

Wow. Is it 40 already? What is there to say about the man who's seemingly been through everything (including a mild heart attack and multiple arrests)? What do you say about the man who's entertained us endlessly over the past...

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Thursday February 05

Video SoulBounce

Jazmine Sullivan's All Smiles, Cool With Her Grammy Nominations

First of all, how cute is Jazmine Sullivan with her husky voice and excited grin in this interview with the Associated Press? In it she discusses her five (deserved) Grammy nominations, and the diverse musical influences that helped make the...

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Thursday February 05

Video SoulBounce

Amanda Diva Elucidates On Sad Moments In Black History

Black History Month has come under scrutiny lately and not by those whom you may expect. Recently, Morgan Freeman questioned its significance, while Ta-Nehisi Coates argues for its continuance in the face of the repeated showcase of the oppression that...

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Thursday February 05

Soul Cynic

Should Diddy Press Stop?

Given the recent drama surrounding Danity Kane's eventful dissolution, it seems appropriate to bring forth a subject that has danced around the minds of many (in a shiny suit, perhaps). That topic is Diddy's uncanny inability to keep a group...

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Thursday February 05

Reviews

With 'The Point Of It All' Anthony Hamilton's Soul Is On Fire

It is the belief of many that Anthony Hamilton can do no wrong vocally. His voice takes us back to a time when music was a little bit more real...more raw...more right. We feel him on a level that...

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Thursday February 05

Soul-Poll

Did Etta James Go Too Far?

If there's one thing we love it's a crunk sista of advanced age. It doesn't matter if what she has to say is fair, warranted, realistic or accurate--it simply entertains us. I'm sure everyone by now is aware of Etta...

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Thursday February 05

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: You Gotta Go Downtown

Check out Rihanna's Grammy commercial. [ASB]Eve finally speaks out about the 2007 album that never was. And when it might actually be. [IDOL]Apparently, to avoid another Here I Stand, Usher's people are telling his wife "Home you stay." Nice....

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Wednesday February 04

Mixtape Roundup

For the Stans: A Dedication to The First Lady

It is no secret the we absolutely adore Faith Evans and long for her return. The release of her memoir and a film depicting the life of late husband Christopher Wallace a/k/a Biggie Smalls has kept her name on our...

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Wednesday February 04

First Spin, Free Music

J.Period & De La Soul Take Us On 'Excursions' Into Q-Tip Territory

Mixtapes are a dime a dozen these days, but good mixtapes are another story. In your travels you've probably found that every mixtape does not deserve a spot in your CD changer or space on your hard drive. However,...

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Wednesday February 04

Industry & Culture

Without Clive Davis How Will The Grammy Awards Fare?

Since Clive Davis recently stepped out from behind-the-scenes of the Grammy Awards this year, things are likely going to go differently. This year's nominations already caused speculation about just how influential Davis really was in nominee and award winner selection....

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Wednesday February 04

First Spin

Exile Is 'For The Kids'

We here at SoulBounce love the kids. So of course we had to let y'all know of this little nugget of cuteness courtesy of producer du jour, Exile. Combining high-pitched, lilting flutes with a little girl's voice is just the...

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Wednesday February 04

A Soulful Noise

Get Jennifer Hudson's Super Bowl National Anthem Performance On iTunes

Much has been said about Jennifer Hudson's performance of "The Star-Spangled Banner" at this past Sunday's Super Bowl. Was it live? Was it Memorex? At the end the day, does it really matter? JHud sung the draws off that song...

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Wednesday February 04

Industry & Culture

Why Is Everyone So Upset With DJs?

We've long considered the deejay an essential part of the Hip Hop tapestry, whether he was an actual group member spinning for the MCs, actually producing the records or debuting select tracks on mixtapes and radio stations and turning otherwise...

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Wednesday February 04

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Need A Man Whose Back Is Real Strong

Bobby Brown has planted his seed yet again. This latest baby-to-be now makes five dependents that he can't support. [C+D]African singer Manu Dibango is suing Michael Jackson again and Rihanna for the first time for an authorized use of...

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Tuesday February 03

First Spin

Teedra Moses Puts It 'In the Wind' For New Orleans

Despite not releasing an album since her 2004 game-changing debut, Complex Simplicity, Teedra Moses has put out mixtapes at a steady clip. Her latest, Lionhearted, is volume three in the Young Hustla series, which have taken our mind off...

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Tuesday February 03

First Spin

Will This New Track From The Alchemist, Maxwell & Twista Make You 'Smile'?

Upon hearing the news that Maxwell would be singing on a new track from The Alchemist's forthcoming CD, Chemical Warfare, we broke out the Champipple here at SBHQ like any true Max fans would. Then we heard that rapid-fire MC...

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Tuesday February 03

A Soulful Noise

New Label, New Album For Leela James

Four years after her debut album blew the roof off the sucker, Leela James is returning this Spring with a new album to quench the thirst of those wanting another hit of her gut-bucket soul. Let's Do It Again...

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Tuesday February 03

First Spin

Wu-Tang's Heavy Hitters Are 'Back From The Slums'

The news of Only Built 4 Cuban Linx 2 fell upon my ears with much ambivalence. The original masterpiece a/k/a "The Raekwon and Ghostface Killah Show" was an album that became an instant classic, and is like opening up a...

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Tuesday February 03

Video SoulBounce

India.Arie and Musiq Soulchild Show Us Their 'Chocolate High'

The chemistry between India.Arie and Musiq Soulchild is intoxicating. This video for "Chocolate High" is bursting with a simpleness and flirtatiousness that compliment the song so well. Although clearly Musiq sleeps in those sunglasses and wakes up surprisingly well...

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Tuesday February 03

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Looks Like Its Gonna Rain

Following in the legendary footsteps of Dionne Warwick, Vivica A. Fox is spokesperson for the new and improved Psychic Friends Network. I really don't know what to say, ya'll. [DL]Brandy: "I really try not to focus on the sales...

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Monday February 02

Listicle

12 Jam & Lewis Tunes You Should Know

I find it a literal offense if you don't know who Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis are. OK, I'm not that harsh, but if you consider yourself a R&B music enthusiast and you have no clue, I might have to...

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Monday February 02

Contests & Giveaways

NYC Bouncers: Win Tickets to See Talib Kweli & Idle Warship Tomorrow Night!

Black History Month is starting off on the good foot at SoulBounce. Once again we've teamed up with our people at S.O.B.'s to give our NYC Bouncers the opportunity to win tickets to see Talib Kweli TOMORROW NIGHT! Yes, it's...

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Monday February 02

Video SoulBounce

Darius Rucker's New Video Is a Family Affair

When Darius "He'll Always Be 'Hootie' To Me" Rucker changed lanes from rock to neo-soul a few years ago, save for one or two songs, it wasn't exactly a good move. But now that he's switched styles once again...

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Monday February 02

A Soulful Noise

Prince Shares His 'Lotus Flow3r' With A Select, Fortunate Few

The Purple One--he who is prolific and genius and introduced us to "Darling Nikki"--is getting ready to anoint us with three albums this year through his new website, lotusflow3r.com. Over the weekend Prince hosted the type of launch party/live performance...

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Monday February 02

Contests & Giveaways

SoulBouncers: Win India.Arie's 'Testimony: Vol. 2 Love & Politics' & Get a Chocolate Treat

We are officially eight days and counting away from the release of Testimony: Vol. 2 Love & Politics, India.Arie's latest magnum opus. In honor of the release, SoulBounce is giving away two copies of the CD between today and February...

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Monday February 02

SoulTube, Video SoulBounce

Jennifer Hudson Sings The National Anthem, Takes Our Collective Breath Away

It's too easy to compare the stellar Star Spangled Banner performance Jennifer Hudson gave at the Super Bowl to the iconic one given by Whitney Houston all those years ago. Maybe it's even a little dismissive of the impact of...

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Monday February 02

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Do You Mind?

The Smithsonian museum has put in a request to obtain one of the Inauguration's many marvels: Aretha Franklin's hat. [EW]Get to know more about one of Soulbounce's Bounce-Worthy artists, Sarah White. [CM]Wouldn't you like to see more lesser-known artists'...

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Sunday February 01

A Soulful Noise

Analog Girl Gives Birth To Digital Baby

Congratulations are in order for Jay Electronica and Erykah Badu, on the birth of their new daughter. We've been waiting for this special delivery since earlier today when they both "tweeted" that she'd gone into labor. Now we await, once...

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