Archive » November 2009

This page contains 121 entries posted in November 2009

Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: Standing On The Verge Of Breaking Up Or Making Love

Van Hunt's "Down Here in Hell (With You)" feels particularly timely right now. We're descending into the end-of-year holidays during an unrelenting recession. Everyone is digging in, situations are really tough, and the passion between many lovers is under strain...

Ro | 11/20/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Month of Mary, Soul Fashioned

Mary J. Blige, Style Icon: A Retrospective

The "Month of Mary" on SoulBounce would not be complete without taking a look back on our beloved Mary J. Blige's look in the public eye. As a woman who grew up next to one of the fashion capitals of...

Alicia | 11/20/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

'Make Me,' Janet. 'Make Me.'

So, it's been pretty evident since the founding of SoulBounce that we have an unshakable fondness for Miss Jackson. There's no denying that the woman is a pop icon. After her gut wrenching interview on ABC on Wednesday evening during...

Ro | 11/20/2009 at 11:00 AM | Comments (8) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: I'm Not A Player I Just Crush A Lot

Oprah to her TV show in 2011: Deuces. [REU]Hustle and Flow takes on the Soul Train Awards. [MR]Get ready for a Motown Thanksgiving with Kem, Shontelle, Melanie Fiona, and more! [MT]Nas, Damien Marley and National Geographic are set to...

Ro | 11/20/2009 at 10:00 AM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

First Spin, Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: I Will Love You Forever

I adore the Brand New Heavies. How happy was I when the original lineup--consisting of Jan Kincaid, Simon Bartholomew, Andrew Levy and N'Dea Davenport--reunited and released an album in 2006. They've toured extensively in that time and if you've been...

Butta | 11/19/2009 at 10:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Jazzy Ways

Get Your Fix Of Miles Quick Before It's Gone

As a satellite radio subscriber, I first loved the lack of commercials, then hated the loss of stations once XM and Sirius merged. But there are a few reasons to tune in, even though my beloved Jazz fusion station is...

ill Mami | 11/19/2009 at 3:00 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

'I Believe In You,' Black Dub

So. This video of a group called Black Dub--Trixie Whitley, Brian Blade, Daryl Johnson and Daniel Lanois--recording the song "I Believe In You" is simple. Just a black and white recording of a...recording. For the first thirty seconds or so...

Ro | 11/19/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Month of Mary, Video SoulBounce

'My Life' At 15: The Videos

No discussion about Mary J. Blige's My Life would be complete without talking about the videos that accompanied the singles from the album. Although there were only three videos made, they are as iconic as the album itself. Filmed during...

Butta | 11/19/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Alicia Shines With Altered 'State of Mind'

I've always loved remixes because they gave a song you might love and new sound, a new edge, a new flavor, so that you wouldn't get tired of it. And after weeks of listening to, repping for, and losing my...

Harlem | 11/19/2009 at 11:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Go To My Heavy Chevy And Pop The Trunk

Jay-Z's "Empire" nets him his first Billboard Hot 100 #1 single as lead performer. [BB]Ludacris is *sigh* boarding the Last Train to Paris. We're numb to this. [RR]Jennifer Hudson is set to star as Winnie Mandela in a new film....

Harlem | 11/19/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: Lose Control

Boy meets girl and they fall in love. Life happens, arguments ensue and feelings are damaged. Only the right kind of slow jam can create an atmosphere of reconciliation that not only rights the wrongs, but elevates the passion between...

Fave | 11/18/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Aaron Hall Gets In Touch With His Furrier Side In 'Rehab'

I love Aaron Hall. His voice instantly makes me reminisce about my childhood and gives me warm, fuzzy feelings all over. I don't get very star struck over most people but witnessing Faith perform an impromptu duet with him last...

ill Mami | 11/18/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Mixtape Roundup

Bask In More Yukimi As You Pay Tribute To Her

I know I'm not the only person smitten with Yukimi Nagano, a full year and change after discovering her existence. Since falling in love with the Little Dragon frontwoman, I have poured over her discography, trying to grab what bits...

ill Mami | 11/18/2009 at 1:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Month of Mary

'My Life' At 15: 'Be Happy'

Mary J. Blige's "Be Happy" was the upbeat first single from My Life to the rest of the world of people who hadn't taken the time to delve into this overwrought, thickened with emotion of an album. To outsiders, Mary...

ill Mami | 11/18/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

First Spin

V.V. Brown Really Misses 'You'

V.V. Brown has been making a splash on the UK scene for quite some time now even if we may be ignorant of her talent on this side of the pond. But talent she has, along with a sweetened quirky...

ill Mami | 11/18/2009 at 11:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Federal Agents Mad Cause I'm Flagrant

Diddy's oldest, Justin, is growing up into quite the handsome young man. He gets it from his mama. [CL]There are plans for a revival of Michael Jackson's Captain EO at Disneyland. [TF]AEG to Dr. Conrad Murray: "Who you gon get...

Butta | 11/18/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: Make A Wish, Baby

Picture it: 1980. A group named Ambrosia release their fourth studio album entitled One Eighty. The four members, all from Los Angeles, grew up idolizing the supergroups of the era, everyone from The Who to Genesis to The Doobie Brothers....

Harlem | 11/17/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (11) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Stressed Out, Uptight, Overworked, Wound Up? Unleash With Robin Thicke's "Sex Therapy"

Are Robin Thicke and his homies in a mansion chalk full o'harlots in the "Sex Therapy" video? What is happening here? The men look like a neo rat pack and all the wimminz are wearing onesies and racial ambiguous. It's...

huny | 11/17/2009 at 7:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Events

Find 'Refuge' With DJ Stylus & Zo!

One of the many benefits to living in the DMV is the wealth of musical talent that lives here as well. Two such talents who we consider family here are SoulBounce are DJ Stylus of the Soul Controllers and Zo!...

Butta | 11/17/2009 at 6:30 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

NYC Bouncers: Win Tickets To See Heston In Concert!

NYC Bouncers, here's another opportunity to get your groove on for free this week. SoulBounce in association with Soul Afrodisiac is giving one blessed Bouncer and their guest a chance to see Heston this Sunday, November 22nd at the Highline...

Butta | 11/17/2009 at 6:00 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

First Spin

Jesse Boykins III Has A Slew Of Remixes For Your Perusal

It's no secret that we have mad love for Jesse Boykins III on SoulBounce. Hell, it's no secret that he gets mad love just about anywhere he happens to be. Even though his last full-length album was released last year,...

ill Mami | 11/17/2009 at 5:00 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

First Spin

The New Affect 'Don't Stop'

There is an ultra-fine, super thin line between douchebag-worthy Pop music and Pop music that is worthy of your time. Just to prove my point, remember the side-eyes and twisted-up faces you gave N'Sync repeatedly until their formula finally hit...

ill Mami | 11/17/2009 at 4:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

First Spin

Dasha Tackles 'Umi Says'

I'm not sure how I feel about this one. Like most of you, I love Mos Def and "Umi Says" is just one of those tracks that I don't want to hear anyone else perform but him. I'm not going...

ill Mami | 11/17/2009 at 3:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

The End Is Near: Beyoncé & Lady Gaga Dazzle With 'Video Phone'

I can't believe I'm writing this, but I absolutely adore Beyoncé and Lady Gaga's track and video for their collaboration known as "Video Phone." Granted, I haven't liked anything Beyoncé has done since "Me Myself & I," but I did...

ill Mami | 11/17/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (17) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Why We Shouldn't Be 'Sleeping' On Alicia Keys

I will be the first to admit that I've taken a take-it-or-leave-it approach to most of Alicia Keys' music over the past few years. From "No One" to "It Doesn't Mean Anything," her music has just been aight for me....

Harlem | 11/17/2009 at 1:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Month of Mary

'My Life' At 15: 'No One Else'

Unwavering dedication--at the expense of tears, heartache and sanity--throbs in the core of any true "ride or die" type of love. When My Life dropped, Mary J. Blige had become the poster child for tormented souls battered by incredibly flawed love...

Fave | 11/17/2009 at 12:00 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

A Soulful Noise, SoulTube

Janet's Back 'In The Spotlight,' Speaks Out On MJ's Death

Tomorrow night, Janet Jackson sits down with Robin Roberts at her Malibu home for her first public interview since brother Michael Jackson's death. The session, called In The Spotlight, was taped a month ago and portions have started to leak...

Harlem | 11/17/2009 at 11:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Leave The Smack And The Crack For The Wack

Lupe Fiasco sits down with 'The Wikipedia Files' to fact check his own Wikipedia page [RR] "Gangsta Killers" Wale, Drake and Kid Cudi are among GQ's Men of the Year [KYU] While Oprah has no current plans to launch...

huny | 11/17/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: Have You Ever Loved Somebody?

Back when I had never been kissed and dreamt of a world where a fairy prince--who looked oddly like Jermaine Jackson--clothed in white would come and rescue me from the pathetic doldrums known as sixth grade, I always thought that...

ill Mami | 11/16/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

NYC Bouncers: Win Tickets To Attend November's Sol Village!

As another third Wednesday rapidly approaches, NYC Bouncers know what time it is: Sol Village time! That's right, it's about to go down this Wednesday, November 18th at our favorite NYC haunt, S.O.B.'s, for another indie star-studded evening of musical...

Butta | 11/16/2009 at 6:00 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Joya Bravo Is Worth 'A Milli'

Though I never lived in the outer boroughs of New York City, I was very familiar with "dollar vans" as they are still affectionately called. Since not everyone can live within reasonable walking distance to a subway station, it only...

ill Mami | 11/16/2009 at 3:15 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

K-Os Wishes He 'Knew Natalie Portman'

I don't pretend to understand K-Os anymore than I can pretend to understand all of the inside jokes on De La Soul's 3 Feet High And Rising. I just know that whatever it is that he does, I invariably find...

ill Mami | 11/16/2009 at 1:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Month of Mary

'My Life' At 15: 'I Love You'

I wish you'd change your ways soon enough/ So we can be together/ You just don't understand good love/ But now all we have is memories...Finally, we've reached the point where Mary is just about ready to let go. I...

Harlem | 11/16/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Go 'Bang Bang' With Melanie Fiona

Melanie Fiona would like to introduce you to her Lucy. After the alluring first ten seconds of the video for "Bang Bang" you may or may not care that she's talking about a gun. Maybe. She doesn't care, though. This...

Ro | 11/16/2009 at 11:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Sitting In My Room With My Smoking Jacket On

Goodie Mob and The Roots performed on Jimmy Fallon last week. It was extra funky. [OKP]It may be too early for bedroom eyes, Phonte, but it's all good. [FYBM]We're late on this K-Swiss ad that features the ever-smooth Jose James....

ill Mami | 11/16/2009 at 10:00 AM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

Sexy Saturday, Video SoulBounce

Izzi Dunn Puts Her 'T&A' On The Screen

Izzi Dunn is making a lot of positive noise from across the pond these days. Her latest single, "Tits and Ass," is provocative and enlightening, but her video gives a more vivid picture (no pun intended). While I appreciate the...

Fave | 11/14/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: Winter's Here And I Ain't Mad About It

Although this song is more in the style of a classic duet, "Take Me" is all about Teedra Moses. The way she punches and lilts her voice during the chorus, her measured loftiness in areas where she could blow Raphael...

Ro | 11/13/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (8) | Permalink

First Spin

Slum Village Keep Things 'Dope' This Year

Despite the untimely death of Slum Village member Baatin recently, the show must go on. In this case, this beat from "Dope Man" goes on to the beat of the Jungle Brothers' "I'm Gonna Do Ya." Their spin is particularly...

ill Mami | 11/13/2009 at 3:00 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

First Spin, Reviews

DJ Spinna Brings The 'Boogie Back'

Earlier this year, DJ Spinna gave us a Sonic Smash to chill our ears in the midst of a sweltering summer. As 2009 wraps up, the renowned producer is back--and this time, he's brought the heat with Boogie Back, a...

Fave | 11/13/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

'Every Now And Then' The Noisettes Capture Something Beautiful

Unless you've been living under a rock, Shingai Shoniwa's star has been born. And watching this video for Noisettes' latest single "Every Now And Then," it's impossible to ignore. Not only does everything about her look absolutely stunning, but the...

ill Mami | 11/13/2009 at 1:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Month of Mary

'My Life' At 15: 'Don't Go'

Words such as "pleading," "longing," "desperation" have been used thus far to describe Mary J. Blige's seminal opus, My Life. You may be tired of reading such descriptions. I'm here to tell you that reading the rest of this post...

ill Mami | 11/13/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (8) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise

Robin Thicke's 'Sex Therapy' Album Cover: A Breakdown

Robin Thicke has been on an unrelenting campaign against panties since long before he threw on a suit and pined that he's "Lost Without You." Now, Dr. Lothario attempts to win over the undecided with the covers for his upcoming...

Ro | 11/13/2009 at 11:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Get Up, Get, Get, Get Down

We see your Gaga, Bey, and [insert contemporary, overwrought sexpot pop star] and raise you Betty Davis. Because you will lose. [NYTB]Wale is generally adorable and acts like a 12 year old girl when discussing his fondness of Solange. Awww....

Ro | 11/13/2009 at 10:00 AM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

First Spin, Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: 'Gloria' Is 'Dynamite'

I have yet to see the movie Black Dynamite, but I have fallen head over platforms in love with the music from the film, specifically the Black Dynamite score. It's as if Adrian Younge recorded this in a time capsule;...

Butta | 11/12/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

DC Bouncers: Win Tickets To See The Goodie Mob In Concert!

DC Bouncers, get ready for Hip Hop history to be made on Saturday, November 14th when legendary group Goodie Mob reunites and returns to the DMV for a very special concert at The Scene. What makes this show especially hot...

Butta | 11/12/2009 at 6:00 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

You Gotta Love Raphael Saadiq's 'Staying' Power

Every time we think Raphael Saadiq may be just about done promoting last year's winning LP, The Way I See It, he comes back with yet another video, or performance, to support the effort. It's almost unheard of these days,...

Harlem | 11/12/2009 at 3:00 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

Reviews

Getting 'Love' From Boyz II Men

You already know how I feel about Boyz II Men. Their harmonies are uncanny and their image remains wholesome as sweet potato pie. For nearly twenty years, Nathan Morris, Shawn Stockman and Wanya Morris have given us a consistent stream...

Fave | 11/12/2009 at 1:30 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

Month of Mary

'My Life' At 15: 'Mary's Joint'

"Unnecessary pain (pain is pain) / Tell me who would get the blame (you know it hurts) / If we should go astray / What would we do? What could we say?" There comes a time every person's life when...

Harlem | 11/12/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Chickens Is Watching

Get ready. A new MJ-themed Vegas Cirque Du Soleil show may be on the horizon. [IDOL]Speaking of MJ, a portrait of him at an LA auction sold for $812,000. Wow. [TOI]Alicia Keys looks very soppable nice on the new Uptown...

Harlem | 11/12/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Diggin' in the Crates, Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: Wipe Your 'Tears Away'

I fell in love with Faith Evans the moment I heard her voice. Her voice, combined with Chucky Thompson's signature production, embodied the sexiness of '90s R&B. My favorite Faith ballad isn't found on any of her albums, it's nestled...

Fave | 11/11/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (10) | Permalink

First Spin

Focus And Phonte Stay Grinding Through This 'Recession'

Producer extraordinaire Focus and the forever multitasking Phonte bring you the tragic tale of a baller whose budget takes a fatal blow from dainty, manicured hands. "Recession" is the first single from Focus' Avant Garde Project, scheduled to drop next...

Fave | 11/11/2009 at 6:00 PM | Comments (7) | Permalink

First Spin, Releases

Anthony Valadez Catches Synesthesia On 'Audio / Visual'

Anthony Valadez has been a consistent force on LA's underground Soul and Hip Hop scene for as long as I can remember. Ever grinding as a on-air host at KCRW and always in the mix, Anthony is always the person...

ill Mami | 11/11/2009 at 5:00 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

First Spin

JSOUL Has 'Potential'

The concepts of indie soul range from bohemian mantras to mental escapes from chaotic reality. Most times, we just want something to make us nod our heads and smile. Jamal Smith aka JSOUL has joined forces with Eric Roberson and Maryland-MC, Substantial,...

Fave | 11/11/2009 at 4:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

The Interwebs

What Does Your Twitter Say About You? Are You A Musical Segregationist or Integrationist?

Ever since discovering that more Black people are on Twitter than any other ethnic group some time ago, I have found Twitter to be more intriguing than before. My fascination first piqued once it became evident that I could chat...

ill Mami | 11/11/2009 at 3:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise

Those Who Seek Shall Find 'Truth' On The 'Radio'

The best date I have ever been on in my life ended, not with a happy ending, but with a visit to TruthSeekers Radio. Prior to moving to Los Angeles, I was a regular listener thanks to their streaming audio,...

ill Mami | 11/11/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

DC Bouncers: Win Tickets To See Teedra Moses In Concert!

DC Bouncers, you didn't think that NYC would have all the free Teedra Moses ticket fun this week, did you? That's right, Teedra is returning to the DMV for one night only at Liv this Friday, November 13th, but there'll...

Butta | 11/11/2009 at 1:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Month of Mary

'My Life' At 15': 'Be With You'

After going down, "Be With You" brings Mary's pining up to a more predictable plane. It's a solid R&B track that's undoubtedly of its time. This is accentuated by the preceding track's wildly popular and masterfully employed anachronism (cheers, Diddy)....

Ro | 11/11/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Like This And Like That

Jay-Z is trying to deposit a baby in the Bank of Beyonce. [NYDN]Not so fast, this is not Alicia Keys' new album cover. Thank God. [PBB]Michael Jackson's funeral cost a whopping $1 million. [Y!]Contrary to previous reports, Janet and Jermaine...

Butta | 11/11/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: So Many Eyes On Me

There's always been something about Milira's voice. The slight strain that tinges her yearning wails makes her the most human of singers. Until she goes for the high notes and her voice soars to another stratosphere. That's what made the...

Harlem | 11/10/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

NYC Bouncers: Win Tickets To See Teedra Moses In Concert!

The downside to being a Teedra Moses fan is having an extended wait for a new album from our girl. But the upside is that she has been staying on her tour grind and blessing those same fans with many...

Butta | 11/10/2009 at 6:00 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Russell Taylor Wants You To 'Press Pause'

You ever hook up with someone, put it on them, and next thing you know they get a little too comfortable, leaving toothbrushes, draws and whatnot behind at your spot? God, I hate when that happens. And so does Russell...

Butta | 11/10/2009 at 5:30 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise, Video SoulBounce

Melanie Fiona Takes The 'Subway' To London

After "subway" stops in New York City and Canada, Melanie Fiona took her series across the Atlantic Ocean, making tracks to London to promote her newly released album, The Bridge. This time around, Mel stops on Abbey Road to perform...

Harlem | 11/10/2009 at 4:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Bounce-Worthy

Bounce-Worthy: Saunders Sermons

Miami native Saunders Sermons first love may have been singing, but it quickly encompassed Jazz as well when he picked up the trombone at the tender age of 11. Currently touring with Maxwell, Saunders' MySpace page proudly boasts "I worked...

ill Mami | 11/10/2009 at 3:00 PM | Comments (21) | Permalink

First Spin, Month of Mary

Why 'I Am' Loving The Month Of Mary

We really picked the right month to feature Mary J. Blige. From rocking national anthems to the release of the Precious soundtrack, to the celebration of the 15th anniversary of My Life, Mary is everywhere this month. And even though...

Harlem | 11/10/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Blakroc, Mos Def & Jim Jones Don't Have 'Nothin' Like You'

I will admit that I wanted nothing to do with the Blakroc project when I first caught wind of it. All I saw was involvement by the "King of Hip Hop Douchebaggery" a/k/a Dame Dash and Fuzzy McFuzzlestein a/k/a Jim...

ill Mami | 11/10/2009 at 1:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Month of Mary

'My Life' At 15: 'I'm Goin' Down'

Though it was first popularized nearly 20 years earlier by Rose Royce, Mary's rendition of "I'm Going Down" is arguably the definitive one. This has everything to do her truth at the time. While she doesn't diverge much from...

Ro | 11/10/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

N'dambi Keeps It Live At Amoeba

I haven't listened to N'dambi's latest, Pink Elephant, yet. Please don't lecture me about how great it is. I'm just a little hesitant to change. Little Girl Lost was just so amazing that I am hesitant to even attempt to...

ill Mami | 11/10/2009 at 11:00 AM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Who Can I Run To When I Need Love

Teena Marie performed on The View this morning. [BWE]This "afro chair" is rather disturbing. [FL]Lil Wayne's official documentary The Carter has a trailer. I wish this weren't true. [YT]Use YouTube to turn your favorite videos into a jukebox. [LH]...

ill Mami | 11/10/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: Let's Go Forward

I'm a little irritated right now. During times such as these, I seek out music to change my mood that is, more often than not, a reminder of my childhood. Terence Trent D'Arby's "Let's Go Forward" will forever be immortalized...

ill Mami | 11/09/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (11) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise, Video SoulBounce

Anthony David Loves The Kids!

Last month, Anthony David, one of SB's extended family members, was away on a trek to the Down Under, performing throughout the country over a 30-day stretch on the continent of Australia. Normally, we'd worry, since we were used to...

Harlem | 11/09/2009 at 3:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Diggin' in the Crates

Röyksopp Offers A Different 'Vision' Of 'Too High'

I recently alluded to how annoying it is that so many R&B and Hip Hop artists are laying claim to their undying love of Euro Pop in an attempt to appear avant garde and relevant. In truth, we all know...

ill Mami | 11/09/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Reviews

What I Learned While Standing On 'The Bridge' With Melanie Fiona

I've had an appreciation for Melanie Fiona since discovering her music via ?uestlove this past summer, but I didn't consider myself a fan. When I got my hands on her debut album, The Bridge, I pressed play with no expectations....

Fave | 11/09/2009 at 1:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Month of Mary

'My Life' At 15: 'I Never Wanna Live Without You'

"I never wanna live without you, baby / I wanna be your lady / Love is so amazing"One of the standouts on an already stellar album, "I Never Wanna Live Without You" is amongst a handful of tracks that...

Butta | 11/09/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

First Spin

Jesse Boykins III Has Mad Love For 'Chanel'

I have such a musical crush on Jesse Boykins III. Granted, I'm old enough to be his sassy aunt who wears seductive dresses and always has candy on the ready, but I really dig his sound. To date, there isn't...

ill Mami | 11/09/2009 at 11:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Ain't Nobody Humpin' Around

Why, yes. All Black people do rap. Even when we're singing. [FF]Kanye West as Fred Sanford? Diddy as Conway Twitty? Yup. [DNJ]A Ghostface ghost story of course would involve little people and rock band KISS. [YT]R. Kelly's tribute song to...

ill Mami | 11/09/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Diggin' in the Crates, Month of Mary

Mary J. Blige Is 'Beautiful.' Isn't She, Blackstar?

Mary J. Blige may be the "Queen of Hip Hop Soul," but many would agree that Mary is the undisputed "Queen of The Remix" as well. Take a moment and think about how many tracks Mary has blessed that resulted...

ill Mami | 11/08/2009 at 5:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Prepare To Be Amazed With Shabazz Palaces' 'Bellhaven Meridian'

The other night I had the pleasure of making the acquaintance of director Kahlil Joseph and cinematographer Matt Lloyd, both of whom worked on a video for "Bellhaven Meridan", a song by the elusive Shabazz Palaces. Attempting to find information about Shabazz Palaces...

ill Mami | 11/08/2009 at 3:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

First Spin, Month of Mary

'See In Color' Through Mary's Eyes

The riveting drama Precious hit theaters this weekend and those who've seen it have proclaimed that it is not to be missed. Strong performances and Oscar talk for its stars aside, something else that has tongues wagging is the soundtrack...

Butta | 11/08/2009 at 1:00 PM | Comments (7) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Bilal Stays Reaching Higher 'Levels'

We told you all about Bilal's upcoming album to be released next year and his promise of an Electro-Jazz sound. Now we have the proof in the form of an song he performed at this year's CMJ Music Marathon that...

ill Mami | 11/07/2009 at 4:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Diggin' in the Crates, Month of Mary

If You 'Don't Love' Mary 'This Way,' Who Will?

The first week into the Month of Mary, you all have been hopefully dazzled with sounds from Mary J. Blige's classic My Life. But as any fan of Mary knows, there are a plethora of bonus cuts that somehow find...

ill Mami | 11/07/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Sh*t or Shinola?

Men's Group Wants Rihanna To 'Woman-Up' Regarding Violent Incident

It seems as though some people are now voicing their opinion on the Chris Brown-Rihanna domestic violence incident that occurred earlier this year, nine months after the fact. This is definitely due to the fact that Rihanna's new album is...

ill Mami | 11/07/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Diggin' in the Crates, Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: I'm Almost Gone

This may not seem like the song you want to hear as the workweek ends and your weekend begins, but those are the breaks. Plus, how upset can you really be with a song that features two vocal powerhouses? Though...

ill Mami | 11/06/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (9) | Permalink

Bounce-Worthy

Bounce-Worthy: Andy Allo

When I hear a song for the first time and can't wait for it to end just so that I can listen to it again, that's when I know that I've happened upon a hit. That is precisely how I...

Butta | 11/06/2009 at 4:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Why We'll Never Get 'Over' The Roots

Clearly, we love The Roots here at SBHQ. And really, what's not to love? The band is legendary, they've worked with everyone (did you know that ?uestlove is producing John Legend's next album? You would if you were on Twitter),...

Harlem | 11/06/2009 at 3:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise, Month of Mary

Mary Speaks On Why Life Is 'Precious'

Today, the much buzzed-about film Precious debuts in select theaters across the country. The story, of course, is the story of 16 year-old Claireece 'Precious' Jones, whose life was downright hopeless, and, over time, transformed into not only hopeful, but...

Harlem | 11/06/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

I Was There, Reviews

'Sexy Soul' Trifecta With Eric Benet, Mint Condition And Ledisi

The rain hammered the pavement outside Houston's Verizon Theatre, but it didn't stop hundreds of concertgoers from experiencing the Sexy Soul Tour featuring Ledisi, Mint Condition and Eric Benet. The lobby was filled with two-piece velour leisure suits, color-coordinated gator...

Fave | 11/06/2009 at 1:00 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

Month of Mary

'My Life' At 15: 'You Gotta Believe'

It's no secret that My Life was: (1) an open love letter from Mary J. Blige to K-Ci Hailey; and (2) a cornucopia of '90s R&B drenched in soul instrumentals from the '60s and '70s. Unlike the majority of the...

Fave | 11/06/2009 at 12:00 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Reminder: Janelle Monáe Can Sing. Well.

Though getting new material from Janelle Monáe is wholly satisfying when it happens, it isn't happening very often. Fortunately, Cindy Mayweather stays on her performance hustle. In this great video, Monáe sings her beautiful rendition of Charlie Chaplin's "Smile." There...

Ro | 11/06/2009 at 11:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: It's Do Or Die

Chris Brown's managers are pushing up his release and tour dates. [PPL] Delusions of Grandeur Exhibit #39104: Trey Songz's new single "I Invented Sex." [TBB]NPR is on the Mayer Hawthorne train Vespa. [NPR]Um, why is there going to be...

Ro | 11/06/2009 at 10:00 AM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: I'll Always Come Back To You

Full disclosure: "Voyage To Atlantis" is my favorite Isley Brothers song. Ever. There's so much win in this track from their 1977 release Go For Your Guns. It's the wail of Ernie's guitar, punctuating the song like musical exclamation points....

Butta | 11/05/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (12) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Black Dynamite Gets Orchestral In 'The Midnight Hour'

Whether I'm getting older and just unable to stay up past midnight is not the point. The point ultimately is that I missed a performance by the Black Dynamite Orchestra the last time they performed here in LA. Luckily, I...

ill Mami | 11/05/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

First Spin

Raekwon & Blakroc Implore You To Stay Off The Flowers. We Don't Buy It.

Blakroc, for those unfamiliar, is the Hip Hop-Rock project consisting of The Black Keys and various artists, namely the ever-fuzzy Jim Jones. Their latest track available for public consumption pits Raekwon as the grumpy old man daring you young whippersnappers...

ill Mami | 11/05/2009 at 1:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Month of Mary

'My Life' At 15: 'My Life'

"Life can be only what you make it / When you're feeling down, you should never fake it" So begins the haunting title track from the My Life album, arguably one of the most beloved songs Mary J. Blige has...

huny | 11/05/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (7) | Permalink

Month of Mary, SoulTube

Mary's 'Star' Shines Bright In The Bronx Night

As a native New Yorker, I'd just like the record to show that the World Champion New York Yankees were undefeated when they had soul superstars represent during their pre-game ceremonies. We all know how Jay-Z & Alicia Keys literally...

Harlem | 11/05/2009 at 11:00 AM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Folks Get Brown In The Sunshine

Rihanna on GMA this morning: "Eff love." [CL]Pepsi has a cool new marketing campaign involving Hip Hop. [WH]The return of Soul Train Awards went down earlier this week. Check the broadcast on Centric later this month. [TRU]Mary J. Blige is...

Butta | 11/05/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Diggin' in the Crates, Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: 'Hey Now,' Carl Thomas Did More Than 'Wish'

Ten years ago, Carl Thomas enhanced the Bad Boy Entertainment franchise with the #1 R&B hit single, "I Wish" from his debut LP, Emotional. I invite you to dig further into this album and discover a soulful gem yearning to...

Fave | 11/04/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise, Month of Mary

Mary Won't Be 'Stronger' Til Later This Year

This Just In: Mary J. Blige's new disc, Stronger, will be out in time for the holidays. Just during Christmas week, and not around Thanksgiving, as originally planned. Speculation has it that either Mary doesn't want to compete with fellow...

Harlem | 11/04/2009 at 5:00 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

Bounce-Worthy

Bounce-Worthy: Lydia Rene

Most young, aspiring singers struggle with finding the right producers, songs, band members, etc. to help build their unique sound. When I discovered the music of Lydia Rene, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that this singer/songwriter/musician pens her own...

Fave | 11/04/2009 at 4:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Interwebs, We Hear

Roxanne Shanté Comes Clean, Public Delights In Schadenfreude

So Roxanne Shanté has admitted that she never did receive a Ph.D from Cornell University. No shocker there. But in a recent letter penned to Black Voices, the Hip Hop legend admits to being diagnosed with breast cancer and getting...

ill Mami | 11/04/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (7) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise

Send One Up For Shawn Stockman

Nathan and Wanya Morris, of the legendary R&B group Boyz II Men, announced that their fellow bandmate, Shawn Stockman, has been diagnosed with the H1N1 virus aka swine flu. The illness prevented Shawn from performing at the 2009 Soul Train...

Fave | 11/04/2009 at 1:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Month of Mary

'My Life' At 15: 'I'm The Only Woman'

"I'm The Only Woman" was such a perfect fit hot young thangs such as myself who loved it when we first heard it. My Life was full of pleading masterfully disguised as strength and catharsis and this track was no...

ill Mami | 11/04/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (9) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise, Video SoulBounce

We're Still 'Lovin'' Shanice

Remember back in 1991, when Shanice released her second album, Inner Child? Although it seems so long ago, I guarantee you remember your favorite cuts. Mine were "I Love Your Smile" ("Blow, Branford. Blow!") and of course, her remake of...

Harlem | 11/04/2009 at 11:00 AM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: If You See Me Walking Down The Street

Behold 50 Cent's new cologne ad. Photoshop is a helluva drug. [C+D]Paula Abdul channels her inner outer Jasmine Guy. [GFY]Now Redman wants to jump on the sinking ship that is Auto-Tune. [TRU]Whitney does Russia this December. [VRTY]...

Butta | 11/04/2009 at 10:00 AM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: I Feel Like I'm In Love

Poll any Rahsaan Patterson fan about their favorite Rah song, and you're sure to get a wide range of responses. That's how deep his discography is. How many great songs he has. However, if you ask those same fans which...

Harlem | 11/03/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

First Spin

Jay Electronica & Ta'Raach Are 'Czars' Of This 'Love' Ish

"Heavens To Murgatroid!" is how Jay Electronica begins his newest single with SA-RA Creative Partners' Ta'Raach. And when I say new--Jay Electronica fans take note--I mean new, as in not an old song that we're only first hearing now but...

ill Mami | 11/03/2009 at 6:00 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

Releases, Soul Cynic

Dear Hidden Beach: Please Stop.

Hidden Beach, I am really starting to loathe you. Granted you put us all onto Jilly from Philly but then you released that farce that was Al B Sure!'s--can't forget the exclamation point!--last album and now you have decided to...

ill Mami | 11/03/2009 at 5:00 PM | Comments (11) | Permalink

Bounce-Worthy

Bounce-Worthy: Mamas Gun

You ever stumble on something by accident and wind up uncovering a beautiful surprise? Trust me when I say that that is exactly how I felt upon coming across the group Mamas Gun. Yes, their name--a hat-tip to Erykah Badu's...

Butta | 11/03/2009 at 4:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Chrisette Michele's New Video Is 'Fragile' At Best

The camera loves Chrisette Michele. Every time you see her on screen, she looks incredible, regardless of the hairdo of the moment. Her eyes radiate, her smile glistens and her facial expressions tell a story. Love it. There, I said...

Harlem | 11/03/2009 at 3:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Free Music, Reviews

'Just Visiting Too' With Zo! & Friends

Between teaching music to inner-city youth in DC and touring as part of Foreign Exchange, Zo! has been working diligently in the lab on his own projects. While putting the finishing touches on his Sunstorm LP (scheduled to drop Summer...

Fave | 11/03/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (7) | Permalink

Interwebs

Forget About Insurance. Stereomood Has Got You Covered.

Say you have an eclectic ear when it comes to music. You tend to favor genre-spanning mixes that may include a segue from Notorious B.I.G. into David Bowie and on into Luther Vandross if it's done right. Well, my friend,...

ill Mami | 11/03/2009 at 1:00 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

Month of Mary

'My Life' At 15: 'You Bring Me Joy'

"I don't know what I would do / Do without you / In my life, boy..." Barry White's "It's Ecstasy When You Lay Down Next To Me," laid the foundation, but "You Bring Me Joy" was the house that Mary...

Butta | 11/03/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (8) | Permalink

First Spin

Get Your Drink And Fly Gypsy Got Your '2 Step'

The organic nature of good music can be so hot that its steam blurs our vision and dissolves our preconceived labels of race, culture and other social boundaries. This is what you experience when immersed in the sound of Washington,...

Fave | 11/03/2009 at 11:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Ecstasy When You Lay Down Next To Me

Did you know Rihanna is one of Glamour's Women of the Year? In her interview she opens up about the Chris Brown incident, those nudie pics, and, of course, her new album. [GLAM] Did you see the aforementioned Chris...

huny | 11/03/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: You Can Have Whatever You Want

With brazen lyrics like "I could be your easy, anytime, clothing-optional girl," J*DaVeY's "No More" has enough anticipatory energy to ignite even the most latent of desires. Slithery, titillating and effortlessly sultry, Miss Jack Davey sings of leaving footprints on...

Ro | 11/02/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Bounce-Worthy

Bounce-Worthy: Izzi Dunn

I am not afraid to admit it. I am completely enamored by "Tits and Ass." My affinity for this magnificent combination is irrevocable and one of the most tender forms of unconventional love my heart can muster. Now before you...

Fave | 11/02/2009 at 4:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Soul On Stage

Chester Gregory: The Man Of Your 'Dreams'

We recently shared Chester Gregory's "Secret" with you and now there's more intel on this award-winning singer/songwriter. Beginning November 7th, he will star as James "Thunder" Early in a 4-week Apollo Theater production of the musical Dreamgirls. This is familiar...

Fave | 11/02/2009 at 2:00 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink