The Record Realm

Happy Birthday: Andre Hayward, Shaun Escoffery & David Sha

2012-01-23T01:55:00.000-06:00

Andre Hayward

An amazing Jazz trombonist based in Houston who has played for Disney, with Winton Marsalis, Betty Carter, Roy Hargrove and many other notables in the music world. His gospel influenced style of playing has been compared to the late great J.J. Johnson.

Reverb Nation: Andre Hayward

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Shaun Escoffery
One of my top favorite vocalists from out of London known for his hits "Space Rider" and "Days Like This". He's also a gifted songwriter, disc jockey and actor, earning a nomination for the Laurence Olivier Award for the Parade stage play. He was also cast in the West End production of The Lion King, playing the role of Mufasa, as well as their other productions; Les Misérables, Smokey Joe’s Café, Tommy and Mama I Want to Sing.

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David Sha
Rated by many as one of Houston's top voices who's gradually making himself known more on the nationwide music circuit. A man I call my brother and have shared many good times and stages with. He brings great energy to every performance he brings light to, seamlessly belting out soulful melodies, to a wicked emcee and topping it off with thought provoking poetry.

Bandcamp: David Sha

Wishing all of you the best and many happy returns from the Record Realm and Blackadelic Tribe Productions.

Gas-Lab: Shining

2012-01-22T03:42:00.000-06:00

A couple of weeks ago I did a previous post on Gas-Lab, a super dope producer from Bueno Aires, Argentina. To my surprise, he sent me a comment about that post that contained the link to his new video for "Shining" off his Teoria Instrumental Vol.2 beat CD, that blends Jazz, Hip-Hop, Soul, Blues and some good old fashioned Funk. He's offering this single for free, however, i'm sure I can speak for him by asking you to buy this recommended album to help in him continuing to spread some musical love. Enjoy!

Karega Ani: Conscentrated Substance

2012-01-21T00:51:00.000-06:00

Karega Ani...many good things can be said about this brother, a friend of mine i've been knowing for nearly 10 years, after first getting a taste of his lyrical machine gun vocals that took you to distant galaxies, yet kept you down to earth with the same level of communication and impact that Malcolm X had on those who listened to him. A gifted producer, family oriented and just a man of great taste who wears many other hats.

I'll have to dub him as a general, because with his latest release Concentrated Substance: The Chronicles of a Hopeless Optimist, it deserves 5 stars and nothing less. My favorite off the album is the title track which features Def Poet Sunni Patterson and Michele Thibeaux on vocals, along with a legend is his own right, Amp Fiddler tickling the ivories. Overall, the whole album takes you back to the days of purchasing material from your favorite artist and them delivering a product where you enjoy all of it over and over again. A highly recommended must have to add to your collection. Cop it, fasten your safety belts and get ready to go on a fantastic voyage.

Karega Ani Official Website

Miguel Migs ft. Meshell Ndegeocello: Close Your Eyes (Osunlade's Yoruba Soul Mix)

2012-01-20T20:37:00.000-06:00

My most favorite deep and soulful house producer is none other than the legendary Osunlade. The way his music flows just seems to make everything he touches and instant classic even before critics can have mention. Below is a deep house track by Miguel Migs that came out at the end of last year i've been vibing to when I want to relax my mind. On vocals is multi-instrumentalist/singer/songwriter Meshell Ndegeocello who uses her gift to make "Close Your Eyes" sultry. Go ahead and press play to get your eargasm now.

500th Post: Remix Explosion

2012-01-20T16:38:00.000-06:00

Hey folks! The year 2012 has brought about another milestone for the Record Realm blog. As with any celebration, you want it to be fun and explosive. To help create the vibe, here are two dope remixes by two producers who have become fast favorites in my list of top producers/remixers.

First up we have Tall Black Guy of the Motor City who uses Camp Lo's "Luchini" to put his spin on it to really make you say "This is it. Whaaaat!"

Shade Cobain uses "Kick In The Door" by The Notorious B.I.G. as his weapon of choice to give you some serious head nod action.

Kick In The Door (Shade Cobain Remix) by The Notorious B.I.G.

We say THANKS again for your continued support to help in keeping this blog and other projects moving forward.

Yellowtail ft. MC Zulu: Make It Happen

2012-01-17T23:28:00.001-06:00

His natural chemistry in working with producers, MC Zulu has a ragga punch to make an instrumental into a big tune. His current strike is the "Make It Happen" single with Brooklyn based DJ/producer Yellowtail, who previously collaborated with Eska, Jose James, Alison Crockett and Monday Michiru. Remix contributions are from SoulParlor, Phuture Motion and Silverback, and Yellowtail tops it off with another single titled "Refuge". If you're ready to get rowdy in a good way, press play!

EMiL: Deadwood

2012-01-17T17:34:00.000-06:00

Mark your calendars for March 25th. Multi-instrumentalist EMiL, a young lad from ye merry olde UK has geared up to release Deadwood, his debut LP on this date. By listening to the title track, his sound is as if he's influenced by Michael Jackson, melding into the acoustic sounds of the 1960's with beautiful string arrangements to match. His facial features and "abstract afro" makes me think that he could be Benga's little brother. Now it's time to open your ear holes and pay close attention to an artist who is sure to make waves for a long time. ENJOY!

Emil Music Official Website

R.I.P. Jimmy Castor

2012-01-17T00:51:00.000-06:00

Jimmy Castor
(June 23, 1947 – January 16, 2012)

On my last post I mentioned about a breakbeat being used for many genres. Now, I have some sad news about an incredible artist by the name of Jimmy Castor (The Everything Man) who passed away yesterday. A crew of musicians called The Jimmy Castor Bunch, he released a string of hits that helped provide sounds used in many Hip-Hop records, mainly his title track, "It's Just Begun" tune recorded in 1972 that is one of the biggest B-boy anthems. That album also included the heavy sampled "Troglodyte (Cave Man)" known for the opening line; "What we're gonna do right here is go back...". Also releasing "Bertha Butt Boogie", "E-Man Boogie" and other hits.

Before delving into the world of Funk music, Castor started as a doo-wop singer, wrote and recorded "I Promise to Remember" b/w "I Know The Meaning Of Love" for the Wing imprint with Jimmy Castor and the Juniors in 1956. Castor would later replace Frankie Lymon of The Teenagers in 1957. For now, the cause of his passing is unknown. Will update with details as they become available.

The Winstons: Amen Brother (The Break Explained)

2012-01-17T00:33:00.000-06:00

We've heard this "Amen Brother"(1969) break by The Winstons time and time again, which also is nearly the same pattern as Clyde Stubblefield's "Funky Drummer"(1970) pattern as recorded by James Brown. The following video is posted on Youtube and it breaks down the history and use of the "Amen Brother" 5.2 second drum break in the middle of the song, which was a B-Side to their "Color Him Father" hit. Watch and learn...

Elliott Keith a.k.a. RealNess: Run

2012-01-11T05:05:00.000-06:00

I owe much to my good friend Elliott Keith a.k.a. RealNess who i've been knowing for nearly 20 years. My how time flies. Had to take you guys back to a Houston classic by the name of "Run" which dropped some years back. This guy has put in some work behind the mic as well as behind the production boards to create his material. Now-a-days he rocks stages with his band called E.K. Sound from the U.S. all the way to Japan for a massive set blending Hip-Hop, Soul, Reggae, Rock and more to smash all boundaries. I'll be posting new music real soon, so keep it locked!

"LIKE" E.K. Sound on Facebook

Mikey Shanley: Freak P*ssy

2012-01-11T03:46:00.000-06:00

Literally, moments ago I met Mikey Shanley on Facebook through DJ Irene via a discussion on a certain "celebrity". Anyway, I go to check out his fan page and am really liking what I hear. Already, the one tune he's released that struck a chord with me is "Freak P*ssy", a deliciously funky House track that will get you moving to its heavy bass licks. Grab your glow sticks, your dancing shoes and let's take a magic carpet ride. ENJOY!

"LIKE" Mikey Shanley on Facebook

Mikey Shanley Official Website

Follow Up: Blacktivity: Knuckle Sandwich (Official Video)

2012-01-11T00:23:00.000-06:00

Last month I posted about Blacktivity (read more...), the Hip-Hop duo from the Mid-West who released their debut album at the end of last year. Now they follow up the release with their "Knuckle Sandwich" video. Peep it, get a few laughs and support! Now cue the fanfare...

ft. Celeste: A Monarchs Mixtape

2012-01-10T18:52:00.000-06:00

As many of us are preparing to hit Austin, Texas for SXSW in a couple of months, here's some feminine flavor that dropped earlier today from one of the hometown artists, Monarchs, the "alt-soul love child" of singer-songwriter Celeste Griffin. I have to give it to this young lady for keeping it short and sweet, and her delivery over tracks by Jake One, Javelin, MF Doom, Clams Casino, Reggie Coby and the late great J-Dilla. Hit up her Bandcamp page to get the whole enchilada.

Gets That Thing by Monarchs

Shigeto: Lineage

2012-01-10T17:36:00.000-06:00

Like many other artists i've come across, I got my first taste of Shigeto from a mixtape a DJ did a couple of years back. Since then, I have been bumping his tracks ever since. With Lineage, his upcoming mini LP, it's explained where his moniker as a producer stems from. It just so happens that Shigeto (means "to grow bigger") is his middle name and also the name of his great-grandfather, who's pictured in front of his home in Japan in the cover art. Lineage becomes available on January 31st on Ghostly International. You can get a preview of the album and a digital download of the title track here. ENJOY!

Georgia Anne Muldrow: Seeds (prod. by Madlib)

2012-01-09T16:34:00.000-06:00

Georgia Anne Muldrow gives true definition to soul music. Not just in the sense of simply belting out a song, but to display emotion behind lyrics that have meaning. THIS is what I would consider "grown folks music", as well as music like this to be played for children. Considering the times and the way the world is currently, we need to plant "Seeds" for progression. I really dig this old school 70's funky vibe the vocals are set to.

Seeds is the name of the upcoming album by G.A.M. coming out March 27th via SomeOthaShip Connect by way of LP, CD and digital album. A 7 inch (that's a 45 record, for those who don't know) and digital single is scheduled for February 14th on Fat Beats. Big respect to Madlib for conducting the orchestra. Enjoy!

TOKiMONSTA: Swine & Burgers (2009 Unreleased)

2012-01-09T15:23:00.000-06:00

"I'm not sure what I was thinking when I named this song."; are the words from producer TOKiMONSTA speaking on her "Swine & Burgers" track posted at the end of last year on her Soundcloud page, which was done in 2009, previously unreleased officially. After soaking this tune in some more, I think i'm pretty much going to make this a day for the ladies in music. Stay tuned for more...

Lyric Jones ft. Esperanza Spalding: Loss On Repeat

2012-01-09T14:47:00.000-06:00

This new year is already starting off on a good note and Atlanta based emcee Lyric Jones makes a huge impact for the sisters in Hip-Hop by teaming up with Jazz vocalist/bassist Esperanza Spalding, for a "leak", of sorts, with her new single titled "Loss On Repeat". Production credit goes to DJ, producer, emcee & Berklee College of Music educator Raydar Ellis, who instantly gets your head nodding from the first few bars. This is the final release leading up to her debut album Jones St. due on February 7th.

Loss On Repeat w/ DJ Raydar Ellis & Esperanza Spalding by Lyric Jones

"LIKE" the Lyric Jones fan page!

Akai MPC Renaissance

2012-01-08T04:45:00.000-06:00

Akai Pro rang in the new year by introducing one of their newest products called the MPC Renaissance. I got the alert on this product by email, then clicked the image sent to take me to their website, only to be disappointed by a lackluster video that was reminiscent of a mainstream rap video. I didn't know who these "producers" were and it had no mention of how this product works or it's capabilities (which is why I chose to NOT post the video here). Personally, I would have liked to see someone who's notable for using the precursors to this, like Pete Rock, Jeremy Ellis or DJ Mitsu.

Enough of my ranting. They don't give a whole lot of info, but it does say (after READING) that you are able to switch to vintage modes accessing sounds from the MPC 3000 and MPC 60. Just check out the product details below and visit their site. They will also be present at NAMM 2012 featuring this product and conducting demos.

Akai Pro MPC

KOJATO & The Afro Latin Cougaritas: All About Jazz

2012-01-08T02:33:00.000-06:00

Nothing like some good old fashioned Jazz music to help lift your spirits. What's better is to hear tunes that will make you want to hit the dancefloor and boogie. KOJATO & The Afro Latin Cougaritas make that type of Jazz, that's fun and soul soothing. I'm really fond of the title track, "All About Jazz" that kicks this album off. Then they move on with a tribute to the late Fela Kuti with "Everywhere You Go Now, Kuti" that features some heavy Afro-Beat influence. Overall, this is a great album to have part of your collection because of their blend of Jazz music with African rhythms. All About Jazz would also make a great soundtrack for a road trip or to grab a partner to cut a rug with. A vinyl and CD release is scheduled for worldwide purchase, although you can get it as a digital download now by way of their Bandcamp page. The digital download also comes with bonus material, so don't be afraid to help yourself.

All About Jazz by KOJATO & The Afro Latin Cougaritas

iSHE' + Daru: Come Close

2012-01-08T01:44:00.000-06:00

iSHE' grabbed my attention quickly after hearing her smooth vocals with Philly emcee HEZEKiAH for their iSHE'+ HEZEKiAH Project and also on a single produced my Hassaan Mackey called "Genesis", which both dropped last year. She hits us again with a new single released on her Soundcloud page that was a collaboration with producer/drummer Reggie B. called "Come Close". The combination of her sultry vocals, along with the production style of this track, they make you want to do as the title says. What more can you ask for during these winter months? Enjoy!

Hidden Landscapes: Podcast oo2

2012-01-07T04:46:00.000-06:00

By recommendation from dnbradio.com, here's a nifty Drum n' Bass mix by DJs Shonze and Kicbea. If you like it like I do, download it. Make sure you grab Podcast oo1 too. Enjoy!

Eric Lau: The Mission EP

2012-01-07T03:21:00.000-06:00

A month or so ago I posted the new single from Eric Lau featuring Guilty Simpson called "The Mission", which is a banger, by the way. Hours ago he posted "Yesterday" that features Guilty Simpson lending his vocals again, along with Fatima and Olivier Day Soul. All I can say is, classic combination. He also announces that The Mission EP drops February 3rd, although you can pre-order it now via Kilawatt Music. Head on over and get electrified.

Celebrating 100,000 Page Views

2012-01-06T17:53:00.000-06:00

Just moments ago, the Record Realm reached 100,000 page views by readers like yourself from all over the globe. I know the hits counter to the right says a lesser number, but according to my actual stats, we have reached the 100,000 page views milestone. I would like to thank all the readers, artists and record labels who helped to provide music and other material for us to share with the world. We are looking forward to more things to come. Happy 2012!

Velcro: El Mundo Entero (Gas-Lab Remix)

2012-01-06T04:18:00.000-06:00

Being unfamiliar with Gas-Lab, i'm wondering how is it I didn't know about him sooner. I came across his Bandcamp page, pressed play and my heart started fluttering. This cat sure can tap the pads on his MPC-1000 and make it "sing" beautifully. Enough of my ranting, just check out his remix of "El Mundo Entero" by Velcro. Kudos to Buenos Aires for producing this prodigy. Enjoy!

El Mundo Entero (Gas-Lab Remix) by Gas-Lab

Mecca:83: Life Sketches Vols 1 & 2

2012-01-06T03:50:00.000-06:00

You can surely see the impact that J-Dilla has left on many producers. Mecca:83 of Manchester, UK is one who draws inspiration from this master of sounds who left us a number of years ago. I'm not exactly sure how I came across Life Sketches Vols 1 & 2, then to see that my homie Buscrates 16-Bit Ensemble is tickling the keys on "Detroit Twilight", which is featured below. Help keep this young producer doing his thing by purchasing his bodies of work. Enjoy!

Detroit Twilight by Mecca:83

DJ Ilias DK: JFC (The Mix Pt. 1)

2012-01-05T15:08:00.000-06:00

A little while back I connected with a real cool cat by the name of DJ Ilias DK from Greece and have been exchanging tunes with him. For the new year he sent me the link to this killer Trip-Hop mix he did days ago that really has my engine running. He has a great ear for music and see that a good number of people enjoy seeing his display of skill live. He tells me that part two of this mix will be coming soon. For now, grab this FREE download and groove.

Robert Glasper Experiment: Black Radio

2012-01-05T14:47:00.000-06:00

Mark your calendars for the upcoming, highly anticipated album from Robert Glasper called Black Radio set for release on February 28th. From what i've seen so far, it's proving to have an impressive line-up of guest features. He and Erykah Badu have taken the liberty to revamp Mongo Santamaria's "Afro Blue" and have put a spin on it to claim as their own. The first official single released to digital retailers is "Ah Yeah", which features Musiq Soulchild and Chrisette Michelle. However, the one tune that's gaining much attention is "Move Love" featuring newcomers to the Soul game, KING. "Move Love" is available as a FREE download via his website, where you can also pre-order the album.

OneofUs: Disengage

2012-01-02T03:04:00.000-06:00

OneofUs is really impressive with their blend of Jazz fusion that crosses many boundaries of music on their Disengage album. The duo consists of singer/songwriter/musician Kitty Wong of Sydney, Australia and producer Nathan "Sinitus Tempo" Peters who hails from Maryland on sampler, drums and bass. Both name many of the greats in Hip-Hop, Jazz, Funk and popular music as influences for their unique sound. Although they are giving away this wonderful album for FREE, i'm one to definitely purchase future projects from them, as well as attend their shows. Just get a load of their uptempo tack "Summer Nights" below, which has a touch of the eastern sound, Jazz and heavy beats, then rush on over to their Bandcamp page and grab the album while you can. I'm sure you'll be just as delighted as I am. Enjoy!

Summer Nights by OneofUs

Sarah White: Space Madness

2012-01-01T13:55:00.000-06:00

Sarah White is sheer dopeness. I think I seriously need to take more time to research many artists when they are brought to my attention. Space Madness was released in October, which lets me know that i've been "sleeping" for that long. A definite must have for your music collection if you're the type that likes an eclectic blend of multiple styles on one album that flows flawlessly. As far as production, these may not be your everyday names, however, they are proven to be top notch. Guest vocalists include Nicholas Ryan Gant and Cecilia Stalin.

There's just something about "Reaching Up" that grabbed me and is already my favorite track. This is a great tune to have started the album with. I look forward to more music from this Brooklyn bombshell. By the way, I really dig the cover art. Enjoy!

Reachin' Up by Sarah White
Follow on Twitter: @sarahwhiteblack

Happy New Year 2012: DJ Eric Adams Mix

2012-01-01T05:33:00.000-06:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR! And many thanks to all my readers for taking the time to visit the Record Realm. To start you off on the right note, here's a massive Electro House mix by Austin heavy hitter DJ Eric Adams to get you pumped up. As many of you probably made a resolution to make your health better, this is an excellent workout mix. It's available as a FREE download for a limited time. Make sure you share it with friends. Enjoy!

ThisIsWhatWeCameHereForMiniMix by Eric Adams

Kloud 9th: Kloud Droppings LP

2011-12-31T22:34:00.000-06:00

Since this is my last post for 2011, I wanted to go out with a banger. Want you all to check out the headnod sounds of Kloud 9th of Outer Limit, who are 19 year old twin brothers from northern Virginia. They are still pretty new to the game, however, after listening to them, i'm sure they are going to shake things up a bit. Enjoy!

StratoCumulus by Kloud 9th

Weba: Rug Out

2011-12-31T21:16:00.000-06:00

Rug Out by Weba is a fantastic NuSoul album with a jazzy, Brazilian feel to it, and it drops tomorrow. I don't know much about the artist, other than they are from the Los Angeles area. I'll give you updates as soon as I get them. For now....Enjoy!

Rug Out by Weba

Massive Suits Quartet: Wonderland

2011-12-29T15:21:00.000-06:00

Some of you may know that i'm gearing up for my Sunflower Jazz live set for the upcoming year. Recently I came across a heavy cat named Dandy Teru who hails from France and is the founder, art director and music producer at BCR-Music. One of the projects under his umbrella is the Wonderland EP by Massive Suits Quartet, which is on a Jazz vibe that's excellent to add to my sets. Be sure to support all his projects. Enjoy!

WONDERLAND by MASSIVE SUITS QUARTET

DandyTeru.com

DJ Roddy Rod: Oakwood Grain II (Solid English Oak Edition)

2011-12-25T15:32:00.000-06:00

I've been spinning DJ Roddy Rod joints for about 2 1/2 years now and this brother never ceases to amaze me with his styling. I first heard him and the beautiful Muhsinah together and was mind-blown by their collaboration. It's safe to say that I pretty much play their tunes like crazy. Anyway, here's more food for your soul called Oakwood Grain II (Solid English Oak Edition) which dropped only 5 days ago and is the follow-up to Oakwood Grain instrumental LP. There's also bonus material and a PDF art booklet that comes with your digital purchase. Enjoy!

Get "Leviathan" as a FREE download courtesy of DJ Roddy Rod!

Leviathan by RODDY ROD

Blacktivity: Ill-Tone + Shade Cobain

2011-12-23T15:07:00.000-06:00

I can see Nas' point of mentioning and making music to say that "Hip-Hop Is Dead", however, when you have groups like Blacktivity (MC: Ill-Tone & Producer: Shade Cobain) helping to preserve the culture and sound, I would say Hip-Hop is definitely alive. I came across their music on my usual browsing of Bandcamp. After giving them a listen and liking what I heard, I had to switch from my computer speakers to my studio monitors to get the full sound. This IS a bump worthy album. Hurry up and grab it for FREE on their Bandcamp page while you can. I can imagine what they have in store for the near future. Keep up the good work guys!

Follow on Twitter: @_Blacktivity_

Adaptation II by Blacktivity
While you're on Bandcamp, make sure you grab Shade Cobain's TEARS

Believe (Karma) by Shade Cobain

Jeremy Ellis: Master of 16

2011-12-19T13:30:00.000-06:00

Jeremy Ellis continues to step up his game while performing live and in the studio. Hailed as one of the top finger drummers, he shows his skills on Native Instruments' Maschine in this Youtube video that I came across recently. It's a bit old, yet still fascinating. Be sure to visit his website and just vibe.

Jeremy Ellis Music

Shape of Broad Minds: Raiders of the Lost Mix by DJ Jamad

2011-12-18T13:13:00.000-06:00

If you've never heard of Atlanta based DJ Jamad, then you're missing out. This guy tears it up on the Hip-Hop and Soul music scenes with his wicked mixing skills and clever remixes. Now he's how you can get up on what he does. In 2007, he put together this 25 minute mix of the big homie Jneiro Jarel's Shape of Broad Minds that he recently made available for a FREE download. This mix was centered around the Craft of the Lost Art album that was released that same year, which was also the cover mount CD for the Hip-Hop Connection magazine in the UK.

More info: Lex Records Releases

R.I.P. Cesária Évora

2011-12-17T14:03:00.000-06:00

Cesária Évora
(August 27, 1941 – December 17, 2011)
Another legend in music has left us to transition to the ancestral realm. Known all over the world by those who love her rich voice as the "Barefoot Diva", for performing without shoes, and affectionately known by her close friends and family as Cisa. Cesária Évora was born on the Cape Verde islands off the coast of Africa. She got her professional start as a singer by performing on Portuguese cruise ships in the 1960's.

Évora's international success came only in 1988 with the release of her first album La Diva Aux Pieds Nus recorded in France. In 1992, she released her Miss Perfumado album which sold over 300,000 copies worldwide. She garnered broader international success and a Grammy nomination in 1995 with Cesária. n 1997, she won KORA All African Music Awards in three categories: Best Artist of West Africa, Best Album and Merit of the Jury. In 2004, her album Voz d'Amor was awarded a Grammy in the World music category. During her career, she would gain the title of the "Queen of Morna", which is a blues-like style of music and dance native to Cape Verde.

Visit: Cesária Évora Official Website

Plug Research Podcast #14: Tensei

2011-12-15T11:38:00.000-06:00

No, this is not the Tensi anime or video game. However, their music is worthy of being featured in either. The united music powers of Simple X and Midas Wells form this duo that will be releasing material on Plug Research in the near future. To give you a taste of what to expect, PR has a podcast available for FREE download on their Soundcloud page, that features some older tunes made by the two.

In case you want to keep up with Tensi, to stay abreast of what's to come, log on to the Plug Research website. In case you don't know, PR is home to Bilal, Quadron, Hawthorne Headhunters, Exile, Sonny Moon, Szjerdene and a few other artists with some great talent.

Dezaray Dawn: B-tween-the-Lines

2011-12-14T12:36:00.000-06:00

I'm really diggin' the latest track from Dezaray Dawn titled "B-tween-the-Lines", where she flexes her production skills a little for a laid back, soothing feel. A nifty track in time for winter while you're sitting by....ehhhh...let's just say your favorite source of heat. For those that celebrate this holiday season, she has it for FREE for all to Enjoy! Her way of saying thanks for being fans and listening.

B-tween-the-Lines by Dezaray Dawn

R.I.P. Special One of The Conscious Daughters

2011-12-11T00:52:00.000-06:00

CMG & Special One
I found out from one of my homies on the west coast that Special One, born Karryl Smith of The Conscious Daughters (TCD) has passed away. I met the both of them in the late 90's and had a real good time hanging out with them, because they were real cool. My condolences to the families and fans affected by her transition. She will be greatly missed.

Diamond District: Streets Won’t Let Me Chill (Maverick’s U Street Remix)

2011-12-06T00:28:00.001-06:00

DJ Maverick banged out this sweet remix of "Streets Won't Let Me Chill" by Diamond District (Oddisee, X.O. & Y.U) on his MPC after Oddisee hooked him up with acapellas. Even sweeter is this being a FREE download. Get it now!

Streets Won't Let Me Chill (Maverick's U Street Remix) by Maverick

Paper Tiger: Send Me

2011-12-05T22:50:00.000-06:00

I find using the name Paper Tiger very interesting and intriguing, as so is their music. Earlier today they dropped an electronic gem on us by the name of "Send Me". They say it's a 2 Step type of vibe, but it sounds more like Dubstep to me. Then again, who cares. It's too good to be put in a box anyway. Just peep the snippets below...

Jus' Like Music Records

Digital Download: JUNO Download

DJ Shadow: Scale It Back ft. Little Dragon

2011-12-05T20:48:00.001-06:00

Looks like Little Dragon has been putting in overtime, and this time it's with turntablist/producer DJ Shadow, who dropped his The Less You Know, The Better album at the end of September. As I have just gotten light of this release, I had been wondering if anything was in the works by him since it has been 5 years since he released an album.

A couple of weeks ago, he posted the official video for the "Scale It Back" single on Vimeo. It's quite interesting, to say the least. It was directed and produced by Ewan Jones Morris and Casey Raymond. Shadow has employed the help of Talib Kweli, Afrikan Boy, Posdnuos, and Tom Vek, and is also offering a few t-shirt and USB combo bundles centered around the album that features some nifty cartoon characters. Log on to DJShadow.com for more details. Enjoy!

The Internet: Cocaine (Little Dragon Kåkejn Remix)

2011-12-03T17:35:00.001-06:00

The new duo known as The Internet (featuring Syd The Kyd and Matt Martians) is set to release their debut album titled Purple Naked Ladies on December 20th. Their first single out the gate is "Cocaine" [***NOTE: Parental Discretion Is Advised in watching this video]. The original is pretty sweet sounding, however, the musical skills of Little Dragon were lent for the light and hearty Kåkejn Remix, available as a FREE download. Enjoy!

Disclaimer: Neither DJ Kool Emdee or the Record Realm condones the use of drugs or any behavior that is considered immoral or harmful to the well being of others or any acts of animal cruelty.

The Global Movement: The Global Movement EP

2011-12-02T15:55:00.001-06:00

The Global Movement simply does music. Not in the sense of only limiting themselves to instrumentals or it's what to only expect from them. I say that because they create soundscapes by defying the need to be labeled in one specific category. Thanks to frontman Jerome Washington (on vocals), I was blessed with a promo copy of The Global Movement EP. After popping it in and listening to a few bars, "hot damn" came out of my mouth. It's another classic example of old school influence meeting new school perspective. It's hard for me to single out one track to say which is best, when they are all equally great.

Respectively, the rest of the crew...ehem...I mean "fraternity" consists of Kareem Goode (cello), Kirk Powers (guitar) and Ricky Getwood (drums). I hate I missed their past release party and performance. From the way their music sounds (and the mastering quality), i'm sure it was a hell of a show. TGM's eclectic mix makes you feel as if you're listening to all your favorite artists rolled into one show. As they are rapidly gaining steam, be sure to show your support for these incredible artists and the movement by logging on to their website to purchase the EP and by attending their shows. I hear a full length album is in the works. Album cover art is by Robert Hodge.

TheGlobalMovement.com

Gilles Peterson's Worldwide Awards 2012

2011-12-02T11:24:00.000-06:00

Gilles Peterson a pioneering DJ, producer, founder of Brownswood Recordings and host of his BBC Radio One show "Gilles Peterson Worldwide", will return to KOKO in London town on January 21st for the Worldwide Awards 2012. Days ago he announced the first few acts, via his website, who will be performing live for the show. For the list of acts (so far), log on to Gilles Peterson Worldwide.

Here are a few tunes from artists on the show.

Cleo Sol meets Bobby Tank

2011-12-01T23:07:00.000-06:00

I love opening my inbox to get some delicious new flavor, especially from friends. Here's a clever remix by Bobby Tank of "Call 4 Me" by West Londoner Cleo Sol, who's only 20 years old, yet is making noise as if she's been here longer. Her string of singles have been well received by BBC Radio One, 1 Xtra and a host of DJ's.

CleoSol.com

Cleo Sol - Call 4 Me (BobbyTank 'LoverGirl' Refix) by BobbyTank

Speaking of Bobby Tank, the beat gods must have set up a Shaolin school for producers. The way this guy layers his tracks, along with the many styles he has under his belt, it makes you feel like the sound coming through your speakers are in the form of kung-fu kicks with a dash of Bruce Lee attached. Weeks ago (and I should have posted sooner) he released his Vanquish EP on Vermin Street Records. I'm sure after the preview below you will want to head over to purchase the EP at Additech.

Radio Galaxy: We Come In Peace

2011-12-01T22:35:00.001-06:00

In my busy schedule and half paying attention to some things, I got the heads up from my homie Grandfather Cloc about Radio Galaxy, a local group that consists of King Midas, DJ Cosmos and Khimmy J. I heard a few rumors before about this project being in the works and now it's here. Check the "Feel Trip" video below, then head over to get this Hueston goodness from their Bandcamp page.

Radio Galaxy Bandcamp Page

RE:GENERATION: Music Project

2011-12-01T21:35:00.000-06:00

I caught wind of this weeks ago, although it slipped my mind to post it then. Anyway, DJ Premier, along with Skrillex, Mark Ronson, Crystal Method and Pretty Lights have joined forces to help in redefining the future of music. I have listened to a few tracks and was rather impressed by what I heard. All I can say is, you will have to stay tuned to find out what goodies are in store. By no means will you be disappointed. For more info, log on to the official RE:GENERATION Music Project website.

Happy Birthday: Liza Garza & Dave Soul

2011-12-01T16:01:00.000-06:00

Liza Garza
Liza Garza is dope on so many levels. An Emmy Award nominated songwriter and vocalist, who has left many mics aflame with her own brand of poetry. She's made appearances on HBO's Def Poetry, The Lincoln Center, The Apollo and stages across the globe. She also hones her talents into making earring art. You can view and purchase from Liza Garza Signature.

LizaGarza.com

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Dynamite Dave Soul
Dave Soul is (in my J.J. Evans voice) "DYNOMITE!" indeed. Every single time he touches the wheels and clutches a mic, he kills it. While many of us as DJ's have progressed to using Serato, this brother still packs up his vinyl to cut up for his sets. Get a load of this Hip-Hop mix he uploaded recently. I especially love the intro. Enjoy!

World AIDS Day 2011

2011-12-01T10:13:00.000-06:00

It's that time again where we take the time for more serious matters and to remember those we lost in the battle to AIDS and HIV. If you are reading this post and haven't gotten yourself tested, please take the time to do so and encourage family and friends to do the same. If you know someone who has died from this disease or know of someone in another family, take a moment to remember them and pray or meditate. KNOW YOUR STATUS!

WorldAIDSDay.org

Happy Belated: Jalil Hutchins of Whodini

2011-11-30T13:29:00.000-06:00

Want to give a massive shout out to a real cool brother and wish Jalil Hutchins of the legendary Whodini, a very happy belated birthday (which was yesterday, Nov. 29th). Be sure to hit up his Facebook page to send greetings and well wishes. ONE LOVE!

Swede:Art: Guest Mix November 2011

2011-11-20T03:16:00.001-06:00

I have mad respect for this cat Swede:Art, a DJ and producer from Bravaria who has some certified bangers. He's worked with Mayer Hawthorne and also collaborated with some heavy hitters on the indie circuit via the Red Bull Music academy. He just posted this dope abstract mix he put together that's complimentary. Get it while it's hot!

Melodiesinfonie - ∆ove

2011-11-16T02:19:00.001-06:00

Don't know much about this cat Melodiesinfonie, however, he is dope with his flavor of production. I was browsing users on Soundcloud (again) and came across this youngster from Switzerland. I listened to a few of his tracks and like his crunchy snares. Also the way he pays homage to golden era Hip-Hop by using classic drums kits and styling to make his tracks. In light of how things are these days, we need some "∆ove". Enjoy!

Eric Lau: The Mission ft. Guilty Simpson

2011-11-16T02:02:00.001-06:00

This is one hell of a heavy combination style from Eric Lau of London town linking up with Guilty Simpson of "The D", Detroit that is....Motown..."The Motor City". Pardon my Beverly Hillbillies mode. Anyway, get ready for this single to drop in two days. For now, preview the stream here...

The Mission - Single by Eric Lau

Sweatshop: The Getaway EP

2011-11-15T00:43:00.001-06:00

After posting Omar Lye-Fook's "The Man" video last month, I was contacted by Kriswontwo about a funky fresh group from Denmark who goes by the name of Sweatshop, which consists of members Jonas Rendbo as the lead singer, Kuku Agami on rap vocals and Daniel Fridell on production. Their EP The Getaway just touched down on November 7th and the first single is "Drug". Time to get your neck ready for some serious head nod action by pressing play on the official video below. Enjoy!

Purchase The Getaway on iTunes

Marley Marl: Heavy D Tribute Mix For WBLS

2011-11-14T21:30:00.001-06:00

DJ Marley Marl posted this mix on his Soundcloud page a few days ago that's a tribute mix to the legendary Heavy D. Be sure to share this with friends as we salute the works and life of a great Hip-Hop artist who influenced and helped nurture the careers of many. Enjoy!

Long Arm: The Branches

2011-11-11T01:11:00.001-06:00

I really dig the artists on Project Mooncircle. Don't know how this wonderful goodness slipped past me in earlier months, but i'm glad I caught it. Long Arm, a Orenburg based producer, caught my attention not long ago on the Finest Ego: Russian Beatmaker Compilation and The Moon Comes Closer. More of his keyboard tapping goodness is available on The Branches, which came out early February. Get a load of the official video, then get your copy of the album here. Enjoy!

Farewell Heavy D

2011-11-08T16:12:00.000-06:00

Heavy D
(May 24, 1967 – November 8, 2011)
We bid farewell to another young legend in Hip-Hop. Dwight Arrington Myers, better known as Heavy D passed away earlier today after collapsing outside of his Beverly Hills home. Heavy D started his career with Uptown Records in New York City. Later doing the theme songs for both In Living Color and MADtv television series. He also had recurring roles on other tv shows and played small roles in several movies. His last performance was recently on the BET Music Awards and his last movie appearance was Tower Heist with Eddie Murphy and Ben Stiller. Our deepest condolences to his family and close friends. May he rest in power!

Happy Birthday: Minnie Riperton & T3

2011-11-08T10:37:00.000-06:00

Minnie Riperton
(November 8, 1947 – July 12, 1979)
Singer-songwriter Minnie Riperton was best known for her vocal range of five-and-a-half octaves and her 1975 single "Lovin' You". She was married to songwriter and music producer Richard Rudolph from 1972 until her death in the summer of 1979. They had two children - music engineer Marc Rudolph and actress/comedienne Maya Rudolph.

As a child, she studied music, drama, and dance at Chicago's Lincoln Center. In her teen years, she sang lead vocals for the Chicago-based girl group, The Gems. Her early affiliation with the legendary Chicago-based Chess Records afforded her the opportunity to sing backup for various established artist such as Etta James, Fontella Bass, Ramsey Lewis, Bo Diddley, Chuck Berry, and Muddy Waters. While at Chess, Riperton also sang lead for the experimental rock/soul group Rotary Connection, from 1967 to 1971. In 1969 Riperton, along with Rotary Connection, played in the first Catholic Rock Mass at the Liturgical Conference National Convention, Milwaukee Arena, Milwaukee, WI, produced by James F. Colaianni. Riperton reached the apex of her short, but esteemed, career with her number-one hit single, "Lovin' You," on April 4, 1975. The single was the last release from her 1974 gold album entitled Perfect Angel.

In January 1976 Riperton was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a radical mastectomy. By the time of diagnosis, the cancer had metastasized and she was given about six months to live. Despite the grim prognosis, she continued recording and touring. Riperton was one of the first celebrities to go public with her breast cancer diagnosis, but did not disclose that she was terminally ill. In 1977, she became spokesman for the American Cancer Society. In 1978, Riperton also received the American Cancer Society's Courage Award which was presented to her at the White House by President Jimmy Carter. On Thursday, July 12, 1979 at 10am, while lying in her husband's arms, Riperton died while listening to a recording Stevie Wonder had made for her. She was 31.

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Hailing from the Motor City, T-3 was one third of the legendary Slum Village, with the late J-Dilla and Baatin. All three helped bring Detroit Hip-Hop and rap to gain national attention for themselves and to help open the gates for local rap artists as well.

In 2006 he released a solo mixtape titled "The Olio" and finally comes back for 2011 with 3iLLA, that dropped on June 21st.

David Sha: Yes, Yes Y'all (Official Video)

2011-10-28T03:37:00.000-05:00

The "Yes, Yes Y'all" video was actually released a couple of months ago, although I feel like I should have posted it sooner, now is a better time because this tune has picked up a lot of steam. Lately David Sha has been bouncing around the country tearing it up with his energy. Not only can he give an enthusiastic, heartfelt delivery, he can also put on his emcee and poetry hats to keep listeners interested and on their toes.

This tune was done out of the love for Hip-Hop and music in general. Of course looking at its title, it falls under the traditional call and response that's been around forever and carried on through classic Hip-Hop. Mr. Sha will be releasing his UGLY album real soon. Here's another chance for you to see how H-town gets down. Enjoy!

"LIKE" on Facebook: David Sha Music
Twitter: @1dibidi

Brittany Bosco: Pacer EP

2011-10-26T16:31:00.000-05:00

It's been a minute since Atlanta based Brittany Bosco has released an album. Now she's performing and touring with her full band and they have released the Pacer EP for free via her website and their Bandcamp page. To get this ear candy, go here. The majority of the EP was produced by Dog Bite and two tracks were produced by Ira G. While you're on their Bandcamp page, browse around for another goodie. Enjoy!

Yea-yay by BOSCO
Follow on Twitter:
Brittany Bosco: @helloBOSCO
Bosco Band: @BOSCOBANDATL

Happy Birthday: Mahalia Jackson & Bootsy Collins

2011-10-26T12:42:00.000-05:00

Mahalia Jackson
(October 26, 1911 – January 27, 1972)
Mahalia Jackson, a woman with a very powerful voice and fondly known as "The Queen of Gospel" was born on this day in New Orleans. Jackson became one of the most influential gospel singers in the world, and was heralded internationally as a singer and civil rights activist; entertainer Harry Belafonte called her "the single most powerful black woman in the United States". She recorded about 30 albums (mostly for Columbia Records) during her career, and her 45 rpm records included a dozen "golds"—million-sellers.

In 1929, Jackson met the composer Thomas A. Dorsey, known as the Father of Gospel Music. He gave her musical advice, and in the mid-1930s they began a fourteen-year association of touring, with Jackson singing Dorsey's songs in church programs and at conventions. His "Take My Hand, Precious Lord" became her signature song.

Her good friend Martin Luther King Jr said, "A voice like hers comes along once in a millennium." She was a close friend of Doris Akers, one of the most prolific gospel composers of the 20th century. In 1958, they co-wrote the hit, "Lord, Don't Move The Mountain". Mahalia also sang many of Akers' own compositions such as, "God Is So Good To Me", "God Spoke To Me One Day", "Trouble", "Lead On, Lord Jesus", and "He's A Light Unto My Pathway", helping Doris to secure her position as the leading female Gospel composer of that time. In addition to sharing her singing talent with the world, she mentored the extraordinarily gifted Aretha Franklin. Mahalia was also good friends with Dorothy Norwood and fellow Chicago-based gospel singer Albertina Walker. She also discovered a young Della Reese. On the twentieth anniversary of her passing, Smithsonian Folkways Recording commemorated Jackson with the album I Sing Because I'm Happy, which includes interviews about her childhood conducted by Jules Scherwin.

The National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences created the Gospel Music or Other Religious Recording category for Jackson making her the first Gospel Music Artist to win the prestigious Grammy Award. American Idol winner and Grammy Award-winning R&B singer Fantasia Barrino has been cast to play Mahalia Jackson in a biographical film about her life. The movie will be based on the 1993 book Got to Tell It: Mahalia Jackson, Queen of Gospel. The film is said to be directed by Euzhan Palcy.

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Funk bassist, singer, and songwriter William Earl "Bootsy" Collins rose to prominence with James Brown in the late 1960s, and with Parliament-Funkadelic in the '70s, Collins's driving bass guitar and humorous vocals established him as one of the leading names in funk. With his elder brother Phelps "Catfish" Collins, and Kash Waddy and Philippé Wynne, Collins formed a funk band called The Pacemakers in 1968. In March 1970, after most of the members of James Brown's band quit over a pay dispute, The Pacemakers were hired as Brown's backing band and they became known as The J.B.'s. (They are often referred to as the "original" J.B.'s to distinguish them from later line-ups that went by the same name.) Although they worked for Brown for only 11 months, the original J.B.'s played on some of Brown's most intense funk recordings, including "Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine", "Super Bad", "Soul Power", and "Talkin' Loud and Sayin' Nothing".

After parting ways with James Brown, Bootsy returned to Cincinnati and formed House Guests with his brother Phelps Collins, Rufus Allen, Clayton "Chicken" Gunnels, Frank Waddy, Ronnie Greenaway and Robert McCullough. The House Guests released two singles on the House Guests label as well as a third as The Sound of Vision on the House Guests label.

Collins next moved to Detroit, following the advice of singer and future Parliament member Mallia Franklin. Franklin introduced both Collins brothers to George Clinton, and 1972 saw both of the Collins brothers, along with Waddy, join Funkadelic. Bootsy played bass on most of Funkadelic and Parliament's albums through 1980, garnering several songwriting credits as well.

In 1976 Bootsy, Catfish, Waddy, Joel Johnson, Gary "Mudbone" Cooper, Robert Johnson and The Horny Horns formed Bootsy's Rubber Band, a separate touring unit of Clinton's P-Funk collective. The group recorded four albums together, the first three of which are often considered to be among the quintessential P-Funk recordings. The group's 1978 album Bootsy? Player of the Year reached the top of the R&B album chart and spawned the #1 R&B single "Bootzilla".

Like Clinton, Bootsy took on several alter egos, from Casper the Funky Ghost to Bootzilla, "the world's only rhinestone rockstar monster of a doll", as parts of the evolving character of an alien rock star who grew gradually more bizarre as time went on. He also adopted his trademark "space bass" around this time.

In July 2010, Collins, in partnership with former child actor Cory Danziger, launched Funk University ("Funk U"), an online-only bass guitar school in which he also serves as curator and lead professor. Funk University offers an intense curriculum tailored for intermediate to advanced bass players as well as anyone interested in a deeper understanding of funk. The curriculum is based on bass theory, history of funk, and Collins' own musical history given by Collins himself, augmented by lessons and exercises in bass and rhythm from guest bassist professors such as Les Claypool, Meshelle Ndegeocello, John B (Williams) and Victor Wooten.

Bootsy Collins Official Website

Happy Birthday: Anita O'Day, Chuck Berry & Wynton Marsalis

2011-10-18T10:01:00.000-05:00

Anita O'day
(October 18, 1919 – November 23, 2006)
Born Anita Belle Colton, O'Day was admired for her sense of rhythm and dynamics, and her early big band appearances shattered the traditional image of the "girl singer". Refusing to pander to any female stereotype, O'Day presented herself as a "hip" jazz musician, wearing a band jacket and skirt as opposed to an evening gown. She changed her surname from Colton to O'Day, pig Latin for "dough," slang for money. (Read more...)

Chuck Berry
Charles Edward Anderson "Chuck" Berry (born October 18, 1926) is a guitarist, singer, and songwriter, and one of the pioneers of Rock and Roll music. With songs such as "Maybellene" (1955), "Roll Over Beethoven" (1956), "Rock and Roll Music" (1957) "Johnny B. Goode" (1958), and "My Ding-a-Ling" (1972). Chuck Berry refined and developed Rhythm and Blues into the major elements that made rock and roll distinctive, with lyrics focusing on teen life and consumerism and utilizing guitar solos and showmanship that would be a major influence on subsequent rock music. (Read more...)

Wynton Marsalis
Wynton Learson Marsalis, born October 18, 1961 in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a Jazz and Western classical virtuoso trumpeter and composer. He is Artistic Director of Jazz at Lincoln Center. He has promoted the appreciation of Classical and Jazz music, often focusing on young audiences. (Read more...)

G'Ny: Fanm Isi (Vidéo Officielle)

2011-10-16T14:16:00.000-05:00

Giving you a taste of Africa via France from an artist by the name G'Ny I just got hip to with the help of MeeMee Nelzy. Although I can't understand everything in the lyrics, it's still a great song that moves me. From what I understand, this is the first single from her upcoming album that's dropping on October 27th. I hope to learn more about this artist and post more music from her in the near future. Enjoy!

Farewell Contro' Versy

2011-10-16T13:49:00.000-05:00

Contro' Versy
(September 10, 1977 - October 14, 2011)
The Hip-Hop community mourns the loss of another powerful activist in the community who's work spoke volumes. Contro' Versy (also known as Miss Electric Blue) was born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa and eventually made her move stateside to Bronx, NY. For a more extensive bio and her contributions, read more on her Contro' Versy Facebook page.

Happy Birthday: Fela Kuti

2011-10-15T16:07:00.000-05:00

Fela Kuti
(October 15, 1938 - August 2, 1997)
Born Olufela Olusegun Oludotun Ransome-Kuti in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria, "Fela" is the father of "Afro-Beat", a human rights and political activist, and also a composer who's music was later influenced by James Brown and the Black Power movement after a visit to the United States in 1969 with his band Koola Lobitos. Fela would later change the name of the band to Nigeria '70. After the Immigration and Naturalization Service was being tipped off by a promoter who said Fela and his band were in the U.S. without work permits, the band then performed a quick recording session in Los Angeles that would later be released as The ’69 Los Angeles Sessions. (Read more...)

Happy Birthday: Dr. N. Ramini

2011-10-15T15:35:00.000-05:00

Dr. Natesan Ramani, also known as "Flute Ramani" was born on October 15, 1934 in Tiruvarur in Tamil Nadu, India. Aside from the influence of his place of birth, Ramani was born into a musical family. Ramani's grandfather, Sri Aazhiyur Narayanaswami Iyer, was his first guru and was a well known flute artist and singer himself. Aware of young Ramani's keen interest in the Carnatic flute, Ramani's initiation to Carnatic music began at the age of five. He is a disciple of the legendary T. R. Mahalingam, known more commonly as "Mali," who first popularized the Carnatic flute in Indian music. The birthplace of Ramani is symbolic in that Carnatic musicians consider Tiruvarur the sacred sanctuary of Carnatic music, being the birthplace of the "trinity" of Carnatic composers, Saint Tyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar and Syama Shastri who laid the foundation for the tradition.

As a regular performer and an 'A top' grade artist on All India Radio (AIR), his style and improvisations in the rendition of many compositions of Carnatic music brought him instantaneous fame from state level to national level and famous musicians from all walks of classical Indian music praised his genius including the world famous sitar player Ravi Shankar, who was so impressed and mesmerised with Ramani's unique and brilliant control of sruthi and laya made a personal visit all the way to Ramani's home in South India the very next day to praise Ramani and requested Ramani to stage the world's first Carnatic flute jugalbandhi concert (a North-South collaboration of Indian classical music). Such concerts continually received international popularity and demand with the Carnatic flute, and with Ramani rendering both Carnatic and Hindustani ragas, he was the first Carnatic flautist to create the transparency between Hindustani and Carnatic music across India and in the world.

Although Palladam Sanjeeva Rao was Sharaba Shastri's successor, it was "Mali" and N. Ramani as well as K.S Narayanan (the first disciple of Mali), who brought international attention to the Carnatic flute both in their own distinct flute playing techniques, with the latter two improving on the former's methods. He did so by studying the long bass flutes of the North Indian bansuri genius, Pannalal Ghosh which the later had incorporated successfully in Hindustani concerts. To further enhance tala dynamics, he followed the "GNB" style which was developed by the legendary G. N. Balasubramaniam.

The "Mali" bani encompassed facial expressions such as slight tilting of the head, varied movement of the lips which produced the vocal effect in the Carnatic never explored before by Sharaba Shastri or Palladam Sanjeeva Rao. Bringing out more of the tradition Mali introduced in the playing of the Carnatic flute, Ramani's distinctive style is the transformation of the Carnatic flute into the voice of a proficient Carnatic vocalist. Stressing such importance on the emphasis of vocal style of playing, he displayed characteristics of the human voice in his concerts often observed in his fast paced yet melodious performances. According to Ramani, "Mali's teaching methods were worth emulating. "A good teacher should be open to learning from his students too."

Considered an ace jugalbhandi flautist in the local and international arena, Ramani's contributions to the world of the Carnatic flute are immensely popular, especially the introduction of the duet flute concerts which have gained popular appraisals. He also introduced the long bass flute to increase the reach in the lower octaves. In addition, he introduced the 2.5 pitch flute, which is ideal for violin and veena concerts, keeping the strict tradition of Carnatic music.

At present, Ramani is also actively involved in improving flute playing techniques by experimenting with the sizes of the instrument's finger holes and the length of the flutes, especially in the area where fast tempo ragas can be delivered with ease and ultimately improving the quality and diversity of Carnatic music pieces delivered by the flute.Beyond Carnatic music, his proficiency in Hindustani classical music pioneered the playing of the North Indian bansuri flute in Carnatic music concerts.

Scientifically, he is involved in music research, especially in the effects of Carnatic music on improving the quality of new flutist by exposing the music to the young, and also the possibilities of curing diseases or improving immunity against diseases in humans by exposing to Carnatic music.

Dr. Ramani's performances in All India Radio (AIR) have received numerous praises from renonwned Hindustani and Carnatic musicians alike and his performances overseas had been recognised with numerous awards. Some of the highlights include the Sangeetha Kalanidhi, awarded by the Music Academy in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, the Sangeetha Acharya award from Wasser College, U.S., the honorary citizenship status in Maryland, Ohio, U.S., and the Padma Shri Award from the President of India. He holds an honorary Cultural Doctorate from The World University of Arizona.

Dr. Ramani is also an innovative teacher. He founded the Ramani Academy of Flute to promote the Carnatic flute to anyone who is interested in learning, regardless of age. As a teacher, Ramani believes that the practical mastery of any art is more important than receiving certificates. As a result, Ramani Academy of Flute does not offer certificates to students except with the rare opportunity to learn under the tutelage of Ramani. This learning policy has made his students well versed in the proficiency of the Carnatic flute and some of them being famed individuals and teachers located around the world.

Nikolais Javan: Finessa's Booty Clapping Mix V.1

2011-10-14T15:47:00.000-05:00

Although this is a cool cat from Miami, this is nothing like the Miami bass debauchery that "Uncle Luke" released. There's only very slight debauchery in this case in a fun packed funky House mix by Nikolais Javan. And before I exit this post, I HAVE to re-post the hilarious quote from his Soundcloud page, which also has a full tracklist. Time to go to work!

"Hi. My name is Finessa, and I like to booty clap. This is what I like to listen to while I get my booty all sweaty."

Facebook: Nikolais Javan

Alix Perez ft. Foreign Beggars: Dark Days

2011-10-13T07:03:00.000-05:00

For my drum n' bass heads, this is a massive tune from veteran producer Alix Perez and features Foreign Beggars. This will make you lose your mind and is a guaranteed rewind. I'm sure this big tune is tearing up the airwaves in the UK. Fasten your seat belts and enjoy the ride. You may run in to Batman along the way. Big ups to Shogun Audio!

Dessa: Castor, The Twin

2011-10-12T15:58:00.000-05:00

Having been voted as "best album of 2010" by Chicago based A.V. Club entertainment newspaper with her debut solo album A Badly Broken Code, rapper/singer/poet Dessa returns with Castor, The Twin to follow up. Before releasing her own material, Dessa (also known by Dessa Darling) has appeared on several Minneapolis based Hip-Hop projects with the likes of P.O.S., Paper Tiger and the Doomtree Hip-Hop Collective.

If you're looking for that laidback acoustic type feel with a soulful vibe, this is an album to have as part of your music collection. Check out "Dixon's Girl" below. It has a real nice swing, even with her vocal delivery as she switches seamlessly back and forth from singing to a poetic flow. Enjoy!

Facebook: Dessa Darling

Doomtree Records

DRC Music: Kinshasa One Two

2011-10-12T04:39:00.000-05:00

Many thanks to producer extraordinaire Jneiro Jarel for getting me up to speed on the Kinshasa One Two album that was recorded in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo over 5 days this past July, and is currently available for pre-order via Bleep as a digital download, courtesy of Warp Records. This is one style of music I like to spin at my sets and listen to while chilling at home. On November 7th, vinyl junkies will be able to get a hold of this wonderful album in the form of deluxe double vinyl that includes 14 art cards and unique codes for the digital album plus three bonus tracks. CD's will be in digi-packs with 12 page booklets and codes for the bonus cuts.

Check out "African Space Anthem" that features Ewing Sima of Tout Puissant Mukalo. Jneiro tells me he had lots of fun making this track. Enjoy!

Digital Tracklisting:

01 - Hallo featuring Tout Puissant Mukalo and Nelly Liyemge
02 - K-Town featuring N’Gotshima and Bebson
03 - African Space Anthem (A.S.A.) featuring Ewing Sima of Tout Puissant Mukalo
04 - Love featuring Love
05 - Lingala featuring Bokatola System and Evala Litongo
06 - Lourds featuring Yende Bongongo of Okwess International
07 - Respect Of The Rules featuring Loi X Liberal
08 - We Come From The Forest featuring Bokatola System
09 - Customs featuring Bokatola System
10 - Virginia featuring Magakala Virginia Yollande and Yowa Hollande
11 - Ah Congo featuring Jupiter Bokondji and Bokatola System
12 - Three Piece Sweet Part 1 & 2 featuring Bebson
13 - If You Wish to Stay Awake featuring Washiba
14 - Departure featuring Bokatola System

Omar: The Man

2011-10-12T04:38:00.000-05:00

The soul music legend Omar of merry olde UK has hit us with another dope joint which he already has shot a video for. Get you pallets ready for this tasty new flavor from across the pond. Enjoy!

Omar - The Man from Kriswontwo on Vimeo.

Happy Birthday: MC Lyte

2011-10-11T17:48:00.000-05:00

MC Lyte (born Lana Michele Moorer; October 11, 1971) is the first female solo rap artist to release a full length album with her critically acclaimed Lyte As A Rock debut in 1988 which was noted for the hit "Paper Thin" and the battle rap, "10% Dis", which was a response from then-Hurby Azor associate Antoinette. Lyte followed her debut with 1989's Eyes On This, which spawned the hits "Cha Cha Cha" and "Cappucino". Lyte sweetened up a little on 1991's Act Like You Know, noted for its new jack swing sound and the hit single, "Poor Georgie". Lyte's fourth album, 1993's Ain't No Other, became her first to reach gold status and was notable for her first top 40 pop hit, "Ruffneck". Lyte became a featured artist on hits by Janet Jackson and Brandy in 1994.

Two years afterwards, Lyte's fifth album, Bad As I Wanna B, featured production from Jermaine Dupri and Sean Combs and featured the hits "Keep On, Keepin' On" and "Cold Rock a Party", which featured then up-and-coming rapper, songwriter and producer Missy Elliott. This album was her first with East West Records and became successful after the aforementioned singles became big hits with "Keep On Keepin' On" peaking at the top ten and "Cold Rock a Party" peaking at number-eleven. It was her second gold album. Her 1998 follow-up, Seven & Seven, however, wasn't as successful and she left East West by the end of the decade. Lyte released the independently produced record The Undaground Heat featuring Jamie Foxx , in 2003, notable for the song, "Ride With Me". The single was nominated for both a Grammy and a BET award.

Visit her website for full bio and discography at Official MC Lyte.

AstroNots (Bishop V. Black + SoKal): Slow Down

2011-10-11T02:07:00.000-05:00

My big homie Bishop V. Black of V.U.R.B. teams up with SoKal to form Hip-Hop duo AstroNots. "Slow Down" is a single of sorts with a couple of verses spit over a 9th Wonder track that will be featured on their upcoming AstroNots promo mixtape later this month. Keep your ears to the streets or this blog for future developments on this lyrical wrecking crew. Enjoy!

Happy Birthday: Art Blakey

2011-10-11T00:02:00.000-05:00

Arthur "Art" Blakey
(October 11, 1919 – October 16, 1990)
Art Blakey, also known as Abdullah Ibn Buhaina, was one of the inventors of the modern style of bebop drumming along with Kenny Clarke and Max Roach. Blakey was influential in mainstream Jazz with his brand of bluesy, funky hard bop style of playing, creating a dark cymbal sound punctuated by frequent loud snare- and bass-drum accents in triplets or cross-rhythms. He adopted several African devices, including rapping on the side of the drum and using his elbow on the tom-tom to alter the pitch. His much-imitated trademark, the forceful closing of the hi-hat on every second and fourth beat, was part of his style from 1950 to '51.

The "Jazz Messengers" name was first used on a 1954 recording led by Horace Silver, with Blakey, Hank Mobley, Kenny Dorham and Doug Watkins. Previous recordings did not have the "Jazz Messengers" name. After Horace Silver left the group in 1956 after their first year, Blakey took over the group name and the band was known as "Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers" from then onwards with Blakey being the sole leader. Many "Jazz Messengers" alumni went on to become prominent figures in Jazz.

Blakey was inducted into the Jazz Hall of Fame (in 1982), the Grammy Hall of Fame (in 2001), and was awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005. He also received many other awards during his lifetime and posthumously.

Happy Birthday: Thelonious Monk

2011-10-10T05:05:00.000-05:00

Thelonious Sphere Monk
(October 10, 1917 – February 17, 1982)
Thelonious Monk was a jazz pianist and composer considered "one of the giants of American music". Monk had a unique improvisational style and made numerous contributions to the standard jazz repertoire, including "Epistrophy", "'Round Midnight", "Blue Monk", "Straight, No Chaser" and "Well, You Needn't". Monk is the second most recorded jazz composer after Duke Ellington, which is particularly remarkable as Ellington composed over 1,000 songs while Monk wrote about 70.

Often regarded as a founder of bebop, Monk's playing later evolved away from that style. His compositions and improvisations are full of dissonant harmonies and angular melodic twists, and are consistent with Monk's unorthodox approach to the piano, which combined a highly percussive attack with abrupt, dramatic use of silences and hesitations.

Monk's manner was idiosyncratic. Visually, he was renowned for his distinctive style in suits, hats and sunglasses. He was also noted for the fact that at times, while the other musicians in the band continued playing, he would stop, stand up from the keyboard and dance for a few moments before returning to the piano. One of his regular dances consisted of continuously turning clockwise, which has drawn comparisons to ring-shout and Sufi whirling.

Charles Bradley: No Time For Dreaming

2011-10-10T04:33:00.000-05:00

After several years of trials and tribulation, Charles Bradley finally is living his dream to make music. First getting his inspiration from seeing James Brown perform in 1962 at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, he realized at that time that he wanted to be an entertainer. From years of bouncing around the country and disappointments along the way, Bradley settled back in New York City to perform under the moniker "Black Velvet".

While performing at the Tarheel Lounge in the Bed-stuy section of Brooklyn, Gabriel Roth of Daptone Records happened to be in the audience and recognized his raw talent that is reminiscent of the vocal style of Otis Redding. Roth signed him to the Dunham Records division of Daptone where he recorded "Take It As It Comes" with the Sugarman 3. Noted for their revivalist styling of 60's and 70's funk and soul music, it is at Daptone where Bradley is dubbed the "The Screaming Eagle of Soul".

Releasing a stream of singles since 2002, Bradley has released his first full length album titled No Time For Dreaming. His first single from the album, "The World (Is Going Up In Flames)" expresses the same type of depth, delivery and feeling as Syl Johnson's "Is It Because I'm Black". For full bio, tour schedule and to purchase CD's and vinyl, visit TheCharlesBradley.com. Enjoy!

Those Chosen: This Is cA

2011-10-06T15:58:00.000-05:00

I'm thankful to those who send me good music to my inbox. It's refreshing to get tunes by cats who are younger than I am, who are not on this current mainstream type of vibe. Japetto, Kornbread and Foreshadow make up the Hip-Hop trio known as Those Chosen. Currently they have a "banger" out right now titled "This Is cA" which talks about their fast paced surroundings of where they call home. Track is produced by Rich Kidd and features the vocals of Blake Carrington. Peep the video below then bless yourself with a free download.

For tours and more info: iammanutebol.com

Twitter: @thosechosen

"LIKE" on Facebook: Those Chosen Music

Fela Kuti + De La Soul = Fela Soul

2011-10-06T04:42:00.000-05:00

I've been pumping this through my studio monitors for the last couple of weeks real heavy and figured I should have posted this when I first caught wind of it. Then again, who cares. This is something real good and i'm sure will be considered timeless. I also have to factor in that Nigerian Independence Day just passed on October 1st, then the father of Afro-Beat, Fela Kuti's birthday is coming up on October 15th. If you haven't checked this remix album out, you're in for a real good treat. Amerigo Gazaway kicked the teeth in of the cat that did the "Nigerian Gangster" remix album of Jay-Z's American Gangster. Your hard-drive is about to get fed with a free lunch. Enjoy!

Ooh (feat. Redman) by Amerigo Gazaway of Gummy Soul

Hitsville, USA: 52 Years of Music

2011-10-05T11:41:00.000-05:00

In 1959 in Detroit, Michigan, Berry Gordy Jr. hung a sign that read Hitsville, USA on a two story building on West Grand Blvd. (now known as Berry Gordy Jr. Blvd) and founded the Motown Record Corporation. After garnering a little success by writing for local acts such as Jackie Wilson and The Matadors, Gordy found it to be more lucrative in producing records and owning the publishing.

Gordy's first signed act was The Matadors, who later changed their name to The Miracles. Lead singer William "Smokey" Robinson would later be granted the position of vice president of the corporation by Gordy. Specializing in soul music with pop appeal and simplicity, the corporation would gain recognition for having their trademark "Motown Sound". Motown Records launched the careers of The Supremes, The Miracles, Smokey Robinson, The Jackson 5, Marvin Gaye and other notable acts. For more info, discography and releases, log on to Motown Records Website.

Happy Birthday: Iman Williams

2011-10-05T10:52:00.000-05:00

Birthday wishes are in order for the lovely and talented Iman Williams of Futuristic Soul Society. Not only is she a co-founder of FSS, vocalist and songwriter. She also writes and blogs for the Roy Ayers Project website. Be sure to visit her fan page on Facebook and follow her on Twitter to send her birthday wishes. Links are provided below the music player. By the way, grab her album Stupid Human Trick. Here's my favorite track off the album. Enjoy!

Float Away feat. Porsche Smith by Iman Williams
Facebook: Iman Williams Fan Page

Twitter: @imanwilliams

Happy Birthday: Marley Marl

2011-09-30T12:28:00.000-05:00

Birthday respects to another pioneer in Hip-Hop. Marley Marl (born Marlon Williams on September 30, 1962) is one of the most influential and important figures in Hip-Hop. He was the first to sample a breakbeat (Honey Drippers - "Impeach The President") and reprogram it, which he did for his cousin MC Shan's "The Bridge" in 1985. The founder of Cold Chillin' Records in 1986, Marl was the house producer for the Juice Crew which contained Big Daddy Kane, Biz Markie, Roxanne Shanté, Kool G Rap & DJ Polo, MC Shan, Craig G and Masta Ace.

He also produced for outside artists such as King Tee, LL Cool J, Lords of the Underground and also an important figure in the careers of Eric B. & Rakim, producing their first hits "My Melody" and "Eric B Is President", the latter being replayed in the same drum pattern as James Brown's "Funky President". Marl also was a key figure in helping to launch the career of legendary producer Pete Rock, after appearing several times as a guest DJ on his Private Radio show on WBLS radio station in New York City.

Marley Marl has played many key parts in the tradition of rap battles with one of the most memorable being the Queensbridge vs South Bronx battle where he and MC Shan took on Boogie Down Productions, where KRS-ONE started his recording career. Other challenges include the diss record by Roxanne Shante' ("Roxanne's Revenge) in response to UTFO's "Roxanne, Roxanne" in 1984. Marl produced LL Cool J's crossover hit "Mama Said Knock You Out" as part of the battle between LL Cool J and Kool Moe Dee.

In 1988, Marl released his first full length album under his own name, In Control: Vol.1 that contained the infamous posse record "The Symphony". In Control: Vol.2 was released in 1990. Both albums featured mainly artists from his Cold Chillin' label to give them an opportunity to flex their skills. The 1990's also brought about Marl producing for TLC, Capone-N-Noreaga, Da Youngtas and Fat Joe.

In 2007, Marl and KRS-ONE collaborated on a project titled Hip-Hop Lives. In 2008 a collaborative effort was done with Craig G for Operation: Take Back Hip-Hop.

Follow Marley Marl on Twitter: @GoldenEraRadio

Farewell: Sylvia Robinson

2011-09-29T14:37:00.000-05:00

Sylvia Robinson
(March 6, 1936 – September 29, 2011)
We lose yet another pioneer in music. Sylvia Robinson, as a performer known to many simply billed as Sylvia, passed away earlier today in a New Jersey hospital. She's also know as the "mother of Hip-Hop", because she was the driving force behind Sugar Hill Records, both as co-founder and a producer. Sylvia helped to usher in two key records in the Hip-Hop genre, "Rapper's Delight" by The Sugar Hill Gang and "The Message" by Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five.

Sylvia aided in the production and releases through forming All Platinum Records in 1968. All Platinum would eventually purchase Chess Records in the early 1970's, a label that housed artists such as Etta James, The Moments, Shirley & Company, Candi Staton, Jean Carn and more. Eventually, All Platinum wasn't able to keep steady releasing material from the former Chess roster.

In 1973, Sylvia released "Pillow Talk" on Vibration. The single reached #1 on the R&B chart and is considered an early prototype of Disco music. It sold over two million copies, and was awarded a gold disc by the R.I.A.A. in May 1973. In 1976 she released her self titled album Sylvia that contained "Sweet Stuff", a tune sampled by Detroit producer J-Dilla for his "Crushin'" tune on his Ruff Draft album.

The mid-1970's brought the founding of Sugar Hill Records with Milton Malden. The label being named after the culturally rich Sugar Hill section of Harlem in New York City. "Rapper's Delight" was released in 1979 and put rap music on the commercial market. Later "The Message" would follow, although it was an abandoned demo. With the guidance of Sylvia and assistance from a session drummer, she persuaded Grandmaster Flash and The Furious Five to record what would be the introduction of socially conscious lyrics into Hip-Hop. By commercializing the market for rap records, Robinson is credited as the mother of modern hip-hop. She introduced the idea of re-using existing compositions, a practice that later became known as "sampling".

"The Message" was the first Hip-Hop record ever added to the
United States National Archive of Historic Recordings.

Superstar Quamallah & Deqawn: Talkin' All That Jazz

2011-09-28T19:56:00.000-05:00

Fresh is the word for Superstar Quamallah, who of course is no stranger in the Hip-Hop world and Deqawn. Both having their own version of Hip-Hop blended with Jazz and an old school vocal delivery. A couple of weeks ago they released Talkin' All That Jazz produced in its entirety by Izznyce on Brick Records, who also house the likes of MF Doom, Termanology, 7L & Esoteric, Mr. Lif and more. Below is the title track that's reminiscent of old school De La Soul tunes. Enjoy!

Jenova 7: Dusted Jazz Volume One

2011-09-28T19:43:00.000-05:00

A couple of weeks ago, Los Angeles based Jenova 7 released Dusted Jazz Volume One, a downtempo Trip-Hop EP which is a precursor for his upcoming full length The Sounds of Sector 7 album which will drop on November 15th. This is the type of flavor that I would spin in my Sunflower Jazz sets. Visit Dusted Wax Kingdom for more info on upcoming releases, then get this free download at Jenova 7's Bandcamp page. Enjoy!

Metamorphosis by Jenova 7

BMB aka SpaceKid: The Sound of Tomorrow

2011-09-28T19:03:00.000-05:00

Just yesterday, St. Petersburg based Beat-Maker-Beat aka SpaceKid dropped his The Sound of Tomorrow full length album via Soulection. There are 19 soulful beats for an unbelievably low price. Help both BMB and Soulection for welcoming him into their family by purchasing this album. Enjoy!

BMBxSpaceKid - Change of Scenery pt.2 by BMB aka Space Kid

BMBxSpaceKid - Make Sounds by BMB aka Space Kid

Phonte: Charity Starts At Home

2011-09-27T13:17:00.000-05:00

The Charity Starts At Home album is here! Today Phonte of The Foreign Exchange released his highly anticipated solo work via +FE Music. Guest vocals include Sy Smith, Elzhi, Carlitta Durand, Pharoahe Monch, Evidence, Eric Roberson, Big K.R.I.T. and Median. Production credits go to 9th wonder, Khrysis, Swiff D, S1 & Caleb, Zo! and Stro Elliot. Get your copy of this yummy goodness at The Foreign Exchange Music Website or on iTunes.

Get the FREE download of "Not Here Anymore" ft. Elzhi (prod. by 9th Wonder).

Sly Stone Reported As Homeless In Los Angeles

2011-09-26T02:47:00.000-05:00

According to an article published hours ago by International Business Times, pioneering Soul/Funk musician and singer Sly Stone of Sly & The Family Stone is homeless and living in a van on the streets of Los Angeles. Click the link below to read the full article.

Soul Music Legend Sly Stone is Now Homeless in LA

ISHE + HEZEKIAH PROJECT: Hold On (Official Video)

2011-09-25T21:01:00.000-05:00

The East meets West with the soulful duo of singer/songwriter Ishe' of San Diego and producer/emcee Hezekiah of Philly, as they have merged to present the ISHE + HEZEKIAH PROJECT. The full album dropped in early June and they have already linked up with Georgia Anne Muldrow to do this addicting remix of their latest single "Hold On". Not only is this a bangin' track, but the dance choreography for this video is on point. Peep the video below then head on over to their 3crates Bandcamp page and purchase this album. Enjoy!

KING: Supernatural (MdCL Remix)

2011-09-25T20:20:00.000-05:00

It's been quite some time since i've posted anything on KING, this amazing trio of talented young women. Since that time, they have opened up for "his royal badness" Prince, recorded a single with The Foreign Exchange and i'm sure they are working on a full length debut. As for now, here's a clever remix done by the maestro on keys, Mark de Clive-Lowe. You can view the previous post here. Enjoy!

Tracy Cruz: Love's Galaxy

2011-09-24T14:43:00.000-05:00

There's a shining star amongst us who goes by the name of Tracy Cruz. In 2005, Tracy gained national recognition with an EP entitled Illuminate Love that featured Kanetic Source, formerly of Ozomatli. Her 2008 debut album Feel'osophy was awarded three Muse's Muse Awards for "Best R&B Project of 2008", "Best Lyrics Female" and "Best R&B Single Female".

She gives us another taste with her sophomore album Universoul Symphony and leads it off with the soulful space filled ballad "Love's Galaxy". I got a big kick out of "Happy" from its upbeat funky feel that was light helps put listeners in that mood. Also Tracy takes it back to basics with the adding of school nursery rhymes, which gave me a good laugh. "Electricity" is a great tune. This is one of those songs that's ideal for the upcoming fall weather or to listen to after a days work while sipping your favorite libation.

Treat yourself to what proves to be a good second album done by a very talented artist. Universoul Symphony is available on Amazon and iTunes.

TracyCruz.com
Twitter: @tracycruzmusic

Farewell Vesta Williams

2011-09-23T03:40:00.000-05:00

Vesta Williams
(December 1, 1957 – September 22, 2011)
Mary Vesta Williams was an R&B singer born in Coshocton, Ohio, known for her four-octave vocal range and often compared to Chaka Khan. Originally credited as Vesta Williams, she was sometimes simply billed as Vesta beginning in the 1990s. Although Williams never had any albums certified gold nor any Top 40 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, she scored six Top 10 hits on the US Billboard R&B chart from the mid 1980s to the early 1990s. Williams was known for the hits "Once Bitten, Twice Shy," "Sweet Sweet Love," "Special", and her 1989 #1 Hit song, "Congratulations".

Williams portrayed a saloon singer in the 1993 film Posse, directed by Mario Van Peebles. During this time period she had a hit with the SWV song, "Rain", recorded alongside smooth jazz musician, Norman Brown. Williams had a recurring role as "Monica", Jackee Harry's best friend, in the television series Sister, Sister in the 1994-95 season. In 2000, Polygram released a compilation album, featuring songs from Williams and Polygram artist, CeCe Peniston. By 2002, Williams became a radio personality and was co-hosting a morning show on KRNB, a radio station based in Dallas/Fort Worth. In recent years, Williams lost 100 pounds, going from size 26 to a size 6. It was at this time that Williams became an advocate for the prevention of childhood obesity and juvenile diabetes.

In 2007, Williams released an album of R&B songs on Shanachie Records entitled Distant Lover. Produced by Chris "Big Dog" Davis, Distant Lover was a cover album featuring songs originally recorded by Bill Withers, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, Sade, and Deniece Williams. Her last recording was the song "Dedicated," released on December 7, 2010 on Stimuli Music. Her final performance was on September 17, 2011 in Portsmouth, Virginia, performing at the Autumn Jazz Explosion.

Our condolences reach out to the family of Vesta. We have lost another powerful and gifted voice. For her full bio, discography and more info, log on to VestaWilliams.com.

Sydnee Jane & The Jane-ettes: BAD (Video Shoot 9/23/11)

2011-09-19T15:55:00.000-05:00

These very lovely ladies who go by the name Sydnee Jane & The Jane-ettes that i've blogged about before, who are very genuine, sent me this track called "BAD" to my inbox. I grabbed my headphones, pressed play and watched the goosebumps pop up on my skin. Pure unadulterated HOTNESS! The tracks has an old school feel, with modern freshness added and was produced by southern legend N.O. Joe, who you may remember from tracks he's done for Rap-A-Lot Records and Priority Records.

I've been informed that they will be doing a video shoot for the tune this Friday, September 23rd in Houston. For more info and location, click "LIKE" on their Sydnee Jane & The Jane-ettes Live Facebook page or log on to Sydnee Jane Official Website. Press play and turn up your speakers to get BAD with them. Enjoy!

Variety: Vinyl Presser Meets Growing Demand

2011-09-19T07:06:00.000-05:00

This article on the Variety website was brought to my attention by my homie Buscrates, the Pittsburgh producer you're read about on here before. The article's focus is the rising sale of vinyl records here in the U.S. according to Soundscan ratings. Thanks to people like myself (yeah that's me in the pic digging in Detroit) and Buscrates, we're two of those who help in the continued growth of vinyl sales. Read the full article here: Vinyl Presser Meets Growing Demand.

Full Crate: Woofers & Dirt

2011-09-19T06:39:00.000-05:00

To get your juices flowing, here's a nice little uptempo mix done by producer Full Crate of Amsterdam. Put on your dancing shoes, turn up the volume and release some steam. Enjoy!

The Dubber: Walk'em Down Tour 2011

2011-09-19T06:15:00.000-05:00

Big respect to my man The Dubber, now based in Columbia, SC, originally from Washington D.C. I met this good brother a few years ago thru a good friend of mine while they were on tour together. A few strokes of the guitar and to hear his lyrics, I was hooked. He displays a clever mixture of reggae, funk, hip-hop and jazz all rolled into one to make a delicious gumbo.

For my Philly crew, you can catch him live tonight at World Cafe' Live at 3025 Walnut Street. For more info, log on to TheDubber.com.

Follow on Twitter: @thedubber

Happy Birthday: Ma Dukes (Mareen Yancey)

2011-09-17T11:09:00.000-05:00

Let's RAISE IT UP for Mrs. Maureen Yancey a.k.a. "Ma Dukes" and wish her a very happy birthday. Mrs. Yancey is a former opera singer and the mother of the late great Detroit producer James "J-Dilla" Yancey.

In 2006, Mrs. Yancey founded the J-Dilla Project with Uncle Herm to help keep the legacy of J-Dilla alive, display his passion for music and also to raise funds to continue lupus research and provide quality arts training through music for underprivileged children.

A word from Ma Dukes on the J-Dilla Project:

"I wanted to set it up to help others but also to be a nucleus for the fans who wanted to do tributes and honor Dilla. It would be a place for artists to be able to show their support. . It's a community, those artists coming out of the underground. You can see this when you travel around the world and see how large his fan base really was. People are still discovering the extent of Dilla's influence."

The J-Dilla Project Website