Archive » December 2009

This page contains 116 entries posted in December 2009

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Doin' Just Fine On The Dance Floor

Michael Jackson's "Thriller" video is now officially a United States national treasure. [ACE]Teddy Riley blames himself for his daughters' "inflated sense of entitlement." [SR]Claude Kelly is one of Billboard's Hot Songwriters of 2009. Congrats. [RICKEY]After you get twisted off Ciroc...

Harlem | 12/31/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Jesse Boykins III Gives Us The 'Itis'

Oh my, my, my, what do we have here. Just in time for nightfall is a sexy new video from Jesse Boykins III for his song "Itis" from The Beauty Created. Director Atif Ateeq captures our attention early when we...

Butta | 12/30/2009 at 5:30 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

First Spin, Free Music

Nicolay Concocts An Electrifying Remix For Vikter Duplaix

We're still recuperating from Christmas and playing catch-up on all the good music that we were gifted with last week. One present that's been in heavy rotation since hitting the net has been the Nicolay remix for Vikter Duplaix's "Electric...

Butta | 12/30/2009 at 12:30 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Get It Shawty

Get to know Mark de Clive-Lowe a little better. [5M]Beyonce is giving us fever in the commercial for her new perfume aptly named Heat. [MMDC]Memphis Bleek is coming back. Stop yawning. [RR]Lily Allen says that Britney Spears > Lady Gaga....

Butta | 12/30/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Martin Luther Would Give 'Everything' To Have You

Watching the beginnings of this Martin Luther track "Everything Is U" takes a great amount of mental resolve to not want to reach through the screen and seek to soothe whatever heartbreak he is grappling with. Featuring Pasqual Arcenaux on...

ill Mami | 12/29/2009 at 11:30 AM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Now Walk It By Yourself

Props to DJ Enuff for playing Jay Electronica's "Exhibit C" on Hot 97. Maybe there is a place for real Hip Hop on the radio? [RIK]Alicia Keys and Pharrell have been named two of the most beautiful people of the...

Butta | 12/29/2009 at 10:00 AM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

First Spin

Reflection Eternal Has Only 'Just Begun'

It's been quite some time since Reflection Eternal's Talib Kweli and Hi-Tek have blessed us with any type of a full-length effort, but we do appreciate the handouts we receive along the way, especially ones boasting collaborations with Mos Def...

ill Mami | 12/28/2009 at 3:00 PM | Comments (8) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Michael's 'This Is It' Video Is A Touching Spike Lee Joint

Just when I thought I was almost over losing Michael Jackson, here comes the music video for "This Is It." Directed by famed auteur Spike Lee, we're taken on a visual journey through Michael's life starting at 2300 Jackson...

Butta | 12/28/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

First Spin, Free Music, Mixtape Roundup, Video SoulBounce

J*DaVeY Takes Us Into Their 'Boudoir' With New 'Mistape'

While your friendly SoulBounce Editors found themselves luxuriating on the sandy beaches of warmer climes or sipping spiked egg nog to ward off the bitter cold this past Christmas, a few of our faves dropped some pretty dope music in...

Butta | 12/28/2009 at 12:30 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Cha Cha Real Smooth

So did Mary J. Blige really lay the smack down on husband Kendu Isaacs or what? [EX]In other MJB news, Stronger With Each Tear sold over 300K copies in its first week of release. [TGJ]George Clinton is having financial problems....

Butta | 12/28/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

SoulBounce Honors

SoulBounce Honors 2009's Album Of The Year: Eric Roberson's 'Music Fan First'

If there was ever an artist who embodied the SoulBounce spirit, it would have to be Eric Roberson, and it's not just because we talk about the man to the extent that we do. Eric, or Erro as he's known...

Butta | 12/24/2009 at 3:00 PM | Comments (7) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Merry Christmas To You

Maxwell will be performing at the Grammys next month. Oh, the BEPs, too. [SR]Fantasia is back with a new reality show. No, for real. [IDOL]Jay-Z & Beyonce are swapping surnames. He'll be Shawn Knowles-Carter, she Beyonce Carter-Knowles. Well, alright. [PC]Merry...

Harlem | 12/24/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

SoulBounce Honors

SoulBounce Honors 2009's Group Of The Year: The Roots

They proceed out on stage, tuba first. Followed closely by the two keyboard players, and the man on the guitar, and the bass player. Then along comes the MC, and finally, the leader. The percussionist. The man with the plan....

Harlem | 12/23/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Dashing Through The Snow

T.I. is outta jail and in a halfway house just in time for Christmas. [BET]Mariah Carey teamed up with Nicki Minaj for a new video and they can both get "Up Out My Face." [CL]Giant magazine goes under with Alicia...

Butta | 12/23/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

SoulBounce Honors

SoulBounce Honors 2009's Woman Of The Year: Ledisi

After yesterday's bittersweet opener about the King of Pop, it's time to swing the pendulum of 2009 to the other extreme. After a tumultuous year that has rounded out this decade in music with more of a thud than a...

Ro | 12/22/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

DC Bouncers: Win Tickets To See Goapele In Concert!

This is our last giveaway for the year, and we had to end 2009 by spreading some Christmas cheer to our DC Bouncers. Bay Area beauty Goapele will be performing at Liv on Sunday, December 27th, and one lucky person...

Butta | 12/22/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: There Is A Reason For Every Season

MJ, Kanye and Chris Brown headline AP's top ten stories of 2009. [EUR]Ne-Yo played Santa for over 400 youth in Las Vegas over the weekend. [C&D]KeKe Wyatt will be back in February. Who Knew?...is the name of the album. Heh....

huny | 12/22/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

SoulBounce Honors

SoulBounce Honors 2009's Man Of The Year: Michael Jackson

Welcome to the 2nd Annual SoulBounce Honors. 2009 was quite a varied year. That is a nice way to phrase it. Therefore, let's keep it real as we always do. 2009 was unexpected in both good ways and bad. Since...

ill Mami | 12/21/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (11) | Permalink

The Mixologists

The Mixologists: Keyknow's Soulful Presents

There is no denying the inevitable. The holiday season is in full swing. Holiday office parties have long been celebrated, you've made your list and checked it twice, and you've likely just emerged from a long Winter's nap courtesy of...

ill Mami | 12/21/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Celebrate It With A Rhyme

Asher Roth is reportedly a gay rapper. And yet our disinterest in him remains unchanged. [GG]And in related news, Jay Smooth declared himself King of The Leprechauns and is huge in Narnia. [CWN]Rihanna x Mickey Mouse = Mad Maxine. [BWE]Tina...

ill Mami | 12/21/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

'Dealing' With Eric Roberson And Lalah Hathaway

A few weeks ago we gave a you a heads up that Grammy nominees Eric Roberson and Lalah Hathaway were hard at work on the video for "Dealing," and I am beyond elated to report that said video is now...

Butta | 12/19/2009 at 10:20 AM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: I Just Wanna Be Yours

The entire Butterfly album was a wonderful moment just before Mariah Carey started down the path of whispery speak-singing and arbitrary ho-ish behavior she's flaunted over the past decade. In fact, I would argue that this is her sexiest album...

Ro | 12/18/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

SoulTube

Flash Shows He's Still The 'Grand Master' Of His Craft

Clearly, it's DJ Friday here at SoulBounce. On the heels of the hot midday mix by Darien Victor Birks is a reminder of why he and other DJs got in the game in the first place. Fresh from overseas, pioneer...

Harlem | 12/18/2009 at 2:00 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

The Mixologists

The Mixologists: Darien Victor Birks

One of my favorite websites, stylistically and content-wise, is Darien Victor Birks' Flwrpt. It's a nice melange of video and audio dedicated to the art of beat-digging. Think of it as my favorite magazine, Wax Poetics, in very minimalist form....

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

Video SoulBounce

Get 'Lost' Where You Belong With Andreya Triana

Although she's yet to release a full album, already Andreya Triana has released some impressive samples of what's to come. In the whimsical video for "Lost Where I Belong" she's a bit like Gulliver, surrounded by illustrated flora, fauna and...

Ro | 12/18/2009 at 11:00 AM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Gonna Be Some Sweet Sounds Coming Down

Best one word description of Alicia Keys this year: Safe. [WP]I never thought I would ever say this but yay Wal-Mart (maybe)! [EX]Rihanna goes topless, world watches. [ABC]When is Cirque du Soleil going to do a Motown themed show?...

Ro | 12/18/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: Wanna Love You And Treat You Right

There is something innately sexy about Reggae music. Whether it's the way your waist and hips involuntarily start to sway at a sensual pace when it comes on or the images of clear blue waves crashing onto white sand beaches...

Butta | 12/17/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

In Spite Of It All, Corinne Bailey Rae Does It 'Again'

Your heart can't help but go out to Corinne Bailey Rae who suffered such a tragic loss last year with her husband's untimely death. In the time that she's been out of the public eye, she's taken time to grieve...

Butta | 12/17/2009 at 6:00 PM | Comments (9) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Get Up Close & Personal With Jesse Boykins III

A couple of days ago, I remember virtually stomping around my room because I was going to miss Jesse Boykins III perform. Granted he was performing in New York City and I live on the opposite coast, so I took...

ill Mami | 12/17/2009 at 4:35 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

First Spin

Exile Will Get You To 'Move'

If you're at all familiar with the songs I tend to post, you know that I tend towards the melodically morose, and I mean that in the best way possible. Exile, who wowed listeners with his last release Radio, comprised...

ill Mami | 12/17/2009 at 3:45 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

First Spin

Jay Electronica Introduces New Evidence With 'Exhibit C'

True Hip Hop heads are snickering at the premise of Jay Electronica's "Exhibit C" being touted as "new," but before you fix your mouth to suck your teeth, just know that after months of cleaned up radio rips and tweaks,...

ill Mami | 12/17/2009 at 2:20 PM | Comments (7) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

'Fela!' Cast Go In At The Roots Holiday Jam

Despite my well-laid plans and a computer error, a recent trip to New York City specifically to see Fela! on Broadway did not come to fruition. I'm still a bit salty about this, but now I can experience some of...

ill Mami | 12/17/2009 at 1:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Peer Into Erykah's Mind's Eye As She Readies 'Return Of The Ankh'

The internet was abuzz last week when Erykah Badu hosted two listening sessions for music writers and bloggers--cough! cough!--that we were not invited to. No matter, we're huge stans of hers and willing to wait like everyone else until February...

ill Mami | 12/17/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (12) | Permalink

First Spin

Are Mary J. Blige & Jazmine Sullivan 'Gonna Make It'?

After listening to "Gonna Make It," the bonus track from Mary J. Blige's Stronger With Each Tear, I understand exactly why this is a bonus cut. Jazmine Sullivan, who is also featured on this song, is the perfect foil to...

ill Mami | 12/17/2009 at 11:20 AM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Bushwack Me With Your Love

Ne-Yo may soon be up for a Oscar nomination for Best Original Song for the Princess and the Frog theme. Nice. [SR]Guess who dominated Twitter's trending topics for 2009? Hint: Michael Jackson. [IDOL]Jennifer Lopez performed on So You Think You...

Harlem | 12/17/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

First Spin, Free Music

Quiet Bounce: J*DaVeY Wants To 'Crawl All Over' You

J*DaVeY just has a knack for crafting crazy, sexy, cool songs. Their latest, "Crawl All Over," is no exception to this rule. Backed by a simple drum beat and heavy synths courtesy of Brook D'Leau, Miss Jack Davey purrs that...

Butta | 12/16/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise

Happy Birthday, Lalah Hathaway!

It's been quite a career for Lalah Hathaway. She's one of those singers that make you just shake your head after hearing her sing. It's so effortless. So rich. So deep. So good. It was in her genes, as both...

Harlem | 12/16/2009 at 6:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

First Spin

'Help' Yourself To Some Maxwell With A Side Of Nas

Maxwell and Nas have teamed up again for a good cause. If you're keeping track, this is the second musical collaboration between these two, following "No One Else In The Room" from 2004's Street Disciple. Five years have passed and...

Butta | 12/16/2009 at 4:30 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

SoulTube

Alicia's In A Different 'State Of Mind' During 'Colbert' Visit

We've spent a lot of time talking about Alicia Keys lately and her impact on music. I remember one of our readers saying that they really enjoyed Alicia more during interviews than they did when she sings. At times, I...

Harlem | 12/16/2009 at 3:45 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

First Spin

Cobe Obeah Won't Get Scorched By The 'Flames'

If there's one rapper I believe deserves more shine--aside from Jay Electronica, that is--it's Cobe Obeah. It been some time since we've last heard from him. I can't blame him, attempting to helm a burgeoning Hip Hop career while pursuing...

ill Mami | 12/16/2009 at 3:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

First Spin

Casamena Takes Sade's 'Soldier' Down To The Basement

I have been needing something to cleanse my musical palate since I went absolutely insane after hearing Maino's "remix" of Sade's "Soldier Of Love." I knew that if I wished hard enough and waited a little longer, I'd be rewarded...

ill Mami | 12/16/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

SoulTube

Jennifer Hudson Takes Us 'Home For Christmas'

The only thing I love just a bit more than music is a success story. And when the two are combined, especially in the case of Jennifer Hudson, it moves me. No, for real. Throw in the holidays, and I'm...

Harlem | 12/16/2009 at 1:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

DC Bouncers: Win Tickets To See Maya Azucena In Concert!

DC Bouncers, we got a treat for you coming up this Friday night. Performing live in concert at Liv on December 18th will be sultry songbird Maya Azucena with W. Ellington Felton as her opening act. If you've never seen...

Butta | 12/16/2009 at 12:00 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Everybody All Aboard

The latest batch of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees have been announced. Better luck next year, LL Cool J. [HHDX]Sade looked better than women half her age (and some teenagers, too!) at her listening session in NYC. [BB]Thinking...

Butta | 12/16/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: Baby I Surrender

The Verrazzano. The John F. Kennedy. The Samuel I. Newhouse. Those are names of various Staten Island ferries where, if you traveled on any of them during the early '80s, you may have found the Force MDs perfecting their doo-wop...

Harlem | 12/15/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

First Spin, Free Music

Jesse Boykins III Recreates 'Beauty' On Its Anniversary

And the remixes just don't stop. To celebrate The Beauty Created's one year anniversary, Jesse Boykins III released a remix album featuring an array of producers who have out their own unique spin on his material. If you've been up...

ill Mami | 12/15/2009 at 4:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

I Was There

Corinne Bailey Rae's New Material Is A Must-'Sea'

It hasn't been easy being Corinne Bailey Rae. To have tragedy strike as you're approaching the pinnacle of your career. To have a platinum-selling, award-winning debut album and everything that comes with it, and suddenly feel completely empty. To lose...

Harlem | 12/15/2009 at 3:00 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Diggin' in the Crates

D'Angelo Shares Some 'Africa' With You

After yesterday's Diggin' In The Crates featuring D'Angelo's "Spanish Joint," a good friend of mine sent me this present. It's not that I've never heard this acoustic version of "Africa" before, but I had never heard it in its entirety....

ill Mami | 12/15/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Watch Some Of Georgia Anne Muldrow's 'Roses'

I was just remarking the other day that it's so weird to not have my child be as into Sesame Street as I once was. Granted that Elmo thing hijacked the show and turned it into something not fun anymore,...

ill Mami | 12/15/2009 at 1:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

NYC Bouncers: Win Tickets To See Jaspects In Concert!

Calling all NYC party people! This Saturday night it's going down once again with some of the best live music that NYC has to offer at S.O.B.'s, and SoulBounce is your free ticket connection. This time around we're giving away...

Butta | 12/15/2009 at 12:00 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

First Spin

Toni Braxton's Got Her 'Hands Tied'

I want Toni Braxton's comeback album to be great. I really do. I've always been a fan of her voice and, even when she went through her "let's prance around half naked" stage, I remained a ride-or-die fan. So you...

Harlem | 12/15/2009 at 11:00 AM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Get Your Back Up Off The Wall

Looking to cop "stuff straight from Kanye's closet" this holiday season? Bid on books, t-shirts and kicks autographed by 'Ye himself. All proceeds go to The Kanye West Foundation. [KL] After throwing a temper tantrum about allegedly being blackballed...

huny | 12/15/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: If I Don't Get Lucky, You Don't Get Lucky, Too

I have already extolled greatly on my love for retired musician Lewis Taylor a few months ago. I revisit my "Lewis Taylor" playlist on my iTunes often and this song is one that I always find myself drawn to. Unlike...

ill Mami | 12/14/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

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

Well look what Santa has in his sack of goodies for all of the soul children--tickets to the last Sol Village of the year courtesy S.O.B.'s and SoulBounce! That's right, we're ending the year on a high note with tickets...

Butta | 12/14/2009 at 6:00 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

First Spin

Wait For Linn & Freddie No Longer

Gifts come all year 'round and during the most unexpected times if you allow your heart and mind to be open to the possibility. Since "befriending" so many people all over the world via Twitter, my musical boundaries have been...

ill Mami | 12/14/2009 at 4:05 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Diggin' in the Crates

D'Angelo Has A 'Joint' For You

This past weekend, Questlove, the Twitter soothsayer that he is, unleashed the full acoustic version of D'Angelo's "Spanish Joint" from Voodoo. Despite the comment thread debate over whether Voodoo was a genre-pushing album or not, most if not all of...

ill Mami | 12/14/2009 at 3:00 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise, Video SoulBounce

The Foreign Exchange's Long Journey Into A Great 'Day'

As you already know, after winning several SoulBounce Honors last year for their epic Leave It All Behind project, The Foreign Exchange was nominated for a Grammy award for Best Urban/Alternative Performance for the album's single "Daykeeper" featuring Muhsinah. Words...

Harlem | 12/14/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

First Spin, Free Music

Fuzz And Mac Do It Best 'In The Evening'

In my everyday life, I don't like surprises. They make me about as cordial as a T Rex. When it comes to music, however, I like the unexpected. Take Fuzz and Mac for example. While Fuzz hails from Augusta, GA...

ill Mami | 12/14/2009 at 1:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Joe 'Can't Get Over You'

I used to really love Joe back when he was singing about how "in luv" he was. But it was 1993, and he hadn't yet mastered the fine art of wooing middle-aged women from onstage at international Jazz festivals. Now...

ill Mami | 12/14/2009 at 11:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: I Will Build You Up, Never Let You Down

Clearly, Questlove has had the Afro on lock for quite some time. [FYBM]For your perusal, The White Rapper Encyclopedia. [CMPLX]These portraits of Nas and Damian Marley are "hot fire" as Dylan would say. [HVW8]K-Ci was doing too much on stage....

ill Mami | 12/14/2009 at 10:00 AM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: Without You I'm Not Real

Amel Larrieux is easy to miss. She sings like she's in on the secret to love, occasionally letting us hear what it sounds like. And she's one of the best lobbyists for love to have ever made the case. Every...

Ro | 12/11/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise, First Spin, Video SoulBounce

Calling All Remixers: Eric Roberson Wants You!

Not one to rest on his Grammy Award nominated laurels, Eric Roberson is taking things a step further and challenging his producing and remixing fans to remix the song that is up for said Grammy, "A Tale Of Two" featuring...

Butta | 12/11/2009 at 1:30 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Listicle

YEAR-END TOP 10: Ro's Picks Of 2009

Although the year is ending on a positive note, kindling hope that early 2010 will usher in the new decade with a musical boon, most of what was released in the last eleven months has been underwhelming. At least the...

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

Video SoulBounce

In The Battle Between A Human Voice And A Synthesizer, Muhsinah Declares The Voice Winner!

In this short interview with Moovmnt, Muhsinah candidly expresses her feelings about the evolution of her music. She hints at a cache of early songs that no one will ever hear, waxes appreciative of her personal and professional relationships with...

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

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: How You Gonna Win When You Ain't Right Within?

Hmm, I understand that Rihanna's life is like an open book now but is her sexuality really anyone's business but hers? [TOI]What do you call the 00s? Does "noughties" work for you? [DM]Ashanti's stalker has possibly been arrested. [SOHH]Not that...

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

Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: I'm Not To Blame For The Pain

From his debut at the dawn of this decade until now, Musiq Soulchild has been of the most consistent male vocalists in the R&B game. He's one of the few artists whose every album I own and get enjoyment from...

Butta | 12/10/2009 at 9:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

At Least Mary J. Blige Looks Great In The 'I Am' Video

The Month of Mary may have jumped off in November, but big things are still poppin' for Mary J. Blige and we're on the case. Yesterday she dropped a new video for the song "I Am," which was slow to...

Butta | 12/10/2009 at 5:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Soul Cynic

Some Of These Things Are Not Like The Others: EW's Top Ten List Of The Decade

The Top 10 lists of several websites and periodicals have been popping up with more frequency now that this decade is about to come to a close. No stranger to Top 10 lists ourselves, we understand the time and care...

ill Mami | 12/10/2009 at 3:00 PM | Comments (12) | Permalink

Releases

Get Ready For Slum Village's 'Manifesto'

Slum Village has always been one of those Hip Hop groups who we could always count on, no matter what. Even after the death of Baatin, their Villa Manifesto EP will see the light of day this upcoming Tuesday, December...

ill Mami | 12/10/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Spike Lee Pays Tribute To Michael Jackson's Boyhood Home

Spike Lee is known as one of the most premier auteurs of our time. It only makes sense that such an innovator would choose to pay tribute to the most premier entertainer of our time--really ever--by directing a short film...

ill Mami | 12/10/2009 at 1:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Listicle

YEAR-END TOP 10: Harlem's Picks Of 2009

It's been a long year. And we're all a bit fatigued, to be sure. From our re-discovery of our favorite MJ, to the litany of wonderful indie soul surprises that came our way, to the comebacks of some of our...

Harlem | 12/10/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (8) | Permalink

First Spin, I'm Mad

Sade Wept: Maino Remixes 'Soldier Of Love'

The overwhelming majority of the internet is used to display pornographic material. Just like there's bad porn, there's bad music. This is clearly what has happened when Maino decided to "remix" Sade's newest "Soldier Of Love." You see Sade's face?...

ill Mami | 12/10/2009 at 11:00 AM | Comments (15) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Want To Give You Some Good, Good Lovin'

You've seen the trailer. Now peep Usher's album cover. He's so serious. [IDOL]Super producer Nicolay speaks on his well-deserved Grammy nod. [SN]R. Kelly is readying his autobiography. Too many jokes, too little space here. [RR]The Jacksons: A Family Dynasty premieres...

Harlem | 12/10/2009 at 10:00 AM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: You Got Me Wide Open

I'm on a Raphael Saadiq love high right now. I just saw him in concert this past Monday night, and I'm still relishing the moment--that can't be dampened despite my car getting broken into outside of the venue, but I...

Butta | 12/09/2009 at 11:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Listicle

YEAR-END TOP 10: Butta's Picks Of 2009

This year in urban music has been filled with some of the highest highs (Maxwell's return, new Erro, Sade!) and the lowest lows (Michael's death, Whitney's return, Nicki Minaj). Through it all, I've been blessed to hear music by so...

Butta | 12/09/2009 at 7:00 PM | Comments (14) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Usher's 'Raymond Vs. Raymond' Trailer Has Personalities

Does anyone remember the film Kramer Vs. Kramer, that starred Dustin Hoffman and was about a couple going through a divorce? No? It was just me? OK. Well, when I saw the title of Usher's new trailer for his forthcoming...

Harlem | 12/09/2009 at 5:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

First Spin

It's A 'Cold' World For Kev Choice

Bay Area native Kev Choice has been making beats for as long as I can remember when we first got acquainted as undergrads at Xavier University of Louisiana. Times have changed, but they really do remain the same, as Kev...

ill Mami | 12/09/2009 at 4:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Mos Def Is 'Ecstatic'

And wouldn't you be ecstatic if you were nominated for a GRAMMY, sharing the "Best Rap Album" category with your peers, including Q-Tip and Common? It's always best to strike while the iron is hot, and that's exactly what Mos...

ill Mami | 12/09/2009 at 3:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Andy Samberg Isn't Too 'Shy' When It Comes To Rihanna

I never really cared that much for Rihanna, whether she was a Caribbean Queen or an edgy Pop diva. Luckily she's been able to bounce back from the most unfortunate of circumstances and prove that she has a sense of...

ill Mami | 12/09/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

First Spin

Sade Returns Like The 'Soldier' She Is

Sade is back. But then you again, you knew that already. "Soldier Of Love" dropped yesterday, but excuse us for taking some time to ourselves to savor it completely. I really can't say much more about this track except that...

ill Mami | 12/09/2009 at 1:00 PM | Comments (21) | Permalink

First Spin, Releases

Sample A 'Ballad' Or Two From Georgia Anne Muldrow

Right on the heels of her latest release Early, Georgia Anne Muldrow is ready to drop another album in quick succession. Kings Ballad drops February 9th and, although this is a couple of months away, you know we got you...

ill Mami | 12/09/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

First Spin

Muhsinah Seizes The 'Day'

Muhsinah is always able to perfectly provide the soundtrack to those times when you wish to be contemplative but wish to be in active thought. She clearly puts thought into everything she does and her nerd ways are well-documented when...

ill Mami | 12/09/2009 at 11:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: If You Could Be Mine We Both Shine

Corinne Bailey Rae exudes peacefulness on the cover for her new album, The Sea. [CL]Estelle has some new music on the way, too. [SONYC]Congratulations to Eric Roberson and the rest of the SoulTracks Readers' Choice Awards winners! [ST]Have you downloaded...

Butta | 12/09/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: The Hardest Thing To Do

There's probably a handful of songs that are more achingly beautiful, or haunting, or that have the ability to put one into a trance, than Zhane's 1994 "For A Reason." Yet, right now I can't think of one. It was...

Harlem | 12/08/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (11) | Permalink

Listicle

YEAR-END TOP 10: Fave's Picks Of 2009

Melodies can convey emotions often alluded by spoken language. A combination of instruments guided by the rhythm can capture memories more vividly than even the sharpest of minds. The tonality of a singer's moan--in between hooks and verses--are liable to...

Fave | 12/08/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (9) | Permalink

First Spin

Jody Watley Ushers In The Holiday Season

I haven't been in much of a holiday mood lately. But the holidays are coming which means that my Jackson 5 and The Whispers Christmas albums are coming out. If there's one Christmas song I do listen to year-round, barring...

ill Mami | 12/08/2009 at 11:00 AM | Comments (16) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: $315 Aint Worth Your Soul

BeBe Winans was exonerated of domestic violence charges. [SR]Common speaks on his Grammy nods and a new album. [HHDX]Jennifer Hudson is getting major push-back from South African actresses. [EUR]Gotta love Janet Jackson. [CL]Universal, Sony and EMI are opening a new...

Harlem | 12/08/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: I Had A Vision Of You

I've always had a bit of an unhealthy obsession with Jamiroquai. It all started when a former love of mine introduced me to Return Of The Space Cowboy in college. For six months after that, this album and especially this...

ill Mami | 12/07/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (11) | Permalink

First Spin

Jesse Boykins III's 'Amorous' Nature Keeps Giving With AFTA-1

Even though Jesse Boykins III's "Amorous" was a track from his previously released The Beauty Created, producers and DJs have been having a field day recently with this track. The latest one to put their twist on it is AFTA-1...

ill Mami | 12/07/2009 at 3:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise

Heads Up: New Sade Debuts Online Tomorrow

Despite the immediacy of this blog post's title, let's acknowledge the obvious off the top: Sade looks frigging incredible. It is borderline nonsensical how strikingly gorgeous she is in this photograph. Her signature pulled back hairstyle is in place, her...

Butta | 12/07/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (14) | Permalink

Listicle

YEAR-END TOP 10: ill Mami's Picks Of 2009

I am a highly critical soul, especially when it comes to my first love, Music. This past year, I spent a considerable part of the year complaining about being underwhelmed about what this year's musical selections were offering. In hindsight,...

ill Mami | 12/07/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (8) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Turn On Your 'Bedroom Lites' With Idle Warship

File this one under seizure-inducing post-wave psychedelia (subcategory: neon tribal). This video from the Res, Graph Nobel and Talib Kweli trio Idle Warship, "Bedroom Lites" is a visual onslaught to say the least. It's full of fluorescent duotones, hypnotic spirals...

Ro | 12/07/2009 at 11:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Strumming My Pain With His Fingers

Diddy's Twitter got hacked and for a brief period his lack of updates meant the world was a better place. [DS]This picture of a young Cab Calloway leaves us wondering if Prince and Morris Day are related. [FYBM]Tiger Woods implores...

ill Mami | 12/07/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: Feel How Much I Love You With One Touch Of My Hand

"Spend My Life With You" is one of the genre's great ballads that was one of the swan songs of the R&B boon during the '90s. No wonder this song went to the top of the R&B charts when it...

Ro | 12/04/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Listicle, Soul Cynic

Alicia Keys: Overrated Or Underappreciated?

This year has been an interesting one for Alicia Keys. She has spent the majority of her musical career out of the grasp of ravenous gossipers, but this year brought much change on that front. Nevertheless, she remains one of...

Steven G. Fullwood | 12/04/2009 at 1:00 PM | Comments (68) | Permalink

The Mixologists

Welcome To The Mixologists With DJ PHAZE

What's better on a Friday after a long work week than to be able to sit back and relax with the sounds of some artfully blended soulful tunes wafting from your headphones? Don't all shout out at once. The answer...

ill Mami | 12/04/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (7) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Maxwell Thinks Being Nominated For A Grammy Is 'Better Than Chocolate Cake'

After his knockout tribute to Michael Jackson on the Grammy Award nominations concert and being recognized with six nominations, Maxwell was asked to reflect on what it would mean to win. The guy holding the mic appears to have no...

Ro | 12/04/2009 at 11:00 AM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: One Day All Them Bags Gone Get In Your Way

The Month of Mary is over but the diva herself carries on. She's collaborated with Sinead O'Connor on "This Mother to You," a song to promote sex trafficking awareness. [GEMS]Speaking of Mary, have you downloaded your copy of Men...

Ro | 12/04/2009 at 10:00 AM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

First Spin, Free Music, Quiet Bounce

Quiet Bounce: 'Let's Be Together' With Chester Gregory

If 2009 was any indication, then 2010 is going to be huge for Chester Gregory. This year his profile has been lifted with an album release, a funky fresh mixtape and a starring role in the Dreamgirls stage revival....

Butta | 12/03/2009 at 8:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise

Give Thanks For This Year's Grammy Nominees!

I missed a bit of the fun while I was live-blogging the Grammy Nominations concert last night, but as soon as I emerged from the theater, Twitter was abuzz with news of nominations from some of our favorites. Artists such...

ill Mami | 12/03/2009 at 5:00 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Muhsinah Oscillates 'Always'

SoulBounce Woman of 2008 Muhsinah has a rereleased album that continues with her advanced mathematics theme. Oscillations: Triangle, available exclusively on iTunes, has a fresh, animated, Lego and Lincoln Log-themed video for your viewing pleasure. Although Muhsinah does not appear...

ill Mami | 12/03/2009 at 4:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

First Spin, Releases

Full Crate & Mar Keep It 'Fly' With Eric Roberson

SoulBounce favorites Full Crate & Mar are likely putting the finishing touches on their new EP, Conversations With Her, due January 15th. Despite being an incredibly talented DJ and producer, Full Crate is classically trained in piano, while Mar is...

ill Mami | 12/03/2009 at 3:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

First Spin

Dhundee & Domu Will Have You Groovin' Till 'Tomorrow'

Remember how we put you onto Dhundee's ultra-danceable Take Flight? It turns out that he has some remixes in store from this new project. First up is a remix of "Tomorrow" featuring Cecilia Stalin--they worked together on this track as...

ill Mami | 12/03/2009 at 2:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Raekwon Takes Off The 'Surgical Gloves'

I love Raekwon. For a minute I wasn't sure how he would be able to come back from the utter disappointment of The Lex Diamond Story, but once a Wu-Tang fan, always a Wu-Tang fan. When I first heard Only...

ill Mami | 12/03/2009 at 1:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Shafiq Husayn Celebrates The Queens With 'Lil Girl'

I've been aware of Shafiq Husayn for some time now, as well as his latest EP Shafiq En' A Free Ka. I loved his track "Lil' Girl" when I first heard it this Summer. Now that the video for this...

ill Mami | 12/03/2009 at 12:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

SoulTube

Maxwell's MJ Tribute Gives A Classic New 'Life'

As much as we may want to give others their props, 2009, without a doubt, has been the year of Maxwell. The man has been everywhere, from international tours to multiple appearances on network television (CBS, CNN, etc.) to almost...

Harlem | 12/03/2009 at 11:00 AM | Comments (16) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: One Of These Days It's Gonna Happen To You

Congrats to all of this year's Grammy nominees. [SPIN]Rodney Jerkins takes us down a 15-year memory lane. Mostly good times. [IDOL]Book Lily Allen for your holiday parties now. She won't be around much after March. [BBC]Kelis has signed with will.i.am/Interscope...

Harlem | 12/03/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

SoulTube

SoulBounce Live-Tweets From Tonight's Grammy Nomination Festivities

Tonight I will be in the house at the Grammy nominations concert repping hard for SoulBounce, and I'm taking you with me as I live-tweet all of the festivities right here. Join me as I take you from the nominations...

ill Mami | 12/02/2009 at 8:30 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

DC Bouncers: Win Tickets To See Bilal In Concert!

DC Bouncers, Christmas is coming early for you all. Get ready to get lifted this Friday, December 4th when Bilal returns to Washington, DC for a very special performance at the Black Cat. This concert just popped up on the...

Butta | 12/02/2009 at 6:00 PM | Leave a Comment | Permalink

SoulBounce Presents

SoulBounce Presents 'Men Love Mary': A Tribute To 'My Life'

Fifteen years ago Mary J. Blige released My Life, a breakthrough album chronicling her inner struggles while catapulting her to superstardom as the Queen of Hip Hop Soul. In celebration of this milestone, we gathered nine dynamic male artists...

Soul Bounce | 12/02/2009 at 12:30 PM | Comments (25) | Permalink

First Spin, Free Music

M.anifest Schools Us In 'The Birds & The Beats'

Born in Accra, Ghana and raised in Minneapolis, M.anifest is an emcee whose social conscience isn't worn on his sleeve as a gimmick. That being said, his style isn't preachy or out-of-touch with what the average Hip Hop listener would...

ill Mami | 12/02/2009 at 11:00 AM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Your Background It Ain't Squeaky Clean

Train wreck alert: Fantasia has a reality show coming to VH1 in January. [BV]Sean Combs is every. damn. where. [TRU]Ludacris is the latest rapper to enter the liquor game. [WH]Kelis' hair is...interesting. Don'tcha think? [C+D]So...about the Men Love Mary EP...see,...

Butta | 12/02/2009 at 10:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink