Archive » May 2010

This page contains 122 entries posted in May 2010

Video SoulBounce

Dwele 'W.ants' 'W.omen' To Know A Few More Things

Dwele has really stepped his promotion game up in advance of his new album, W.ants W.orld W.omen. He already broke us off with one video commercial bringing one-third of the album's title to life in vivid detail, so it only makes...

Butta | 05/31/2010 at 2:30 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Relax in Paradise

Anthony 'Little Benny' Harley (1963-2010)

Anthony "Little Benny" dies at 46; a founding father of D.C. go-go music [WAPO] Little Benny [TMOTTGG]...

Butta | 05/31/2010 at 12:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Relax in Paradise

Ali 'Ollie' Woodson (1951-2010)

Former lead Temptations singer Ali Woodson dies [DN]Ali "Ollie" Woodson [Wiki][Official][Facebook][MySpace]...

Butta | 05/31/2010 at 11:00 AM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: My Heart Is On Fire Since You Put That Thing On Me

Bizzy Bone will be on the next season of VH1's Celebrity Rehab. Will a dating show (For the Love of Bone?) be far behind? [WH]Ray Charles is still getting paid from the grave. [Y!]"Power" producer S1 talks about the...

Butta | 05/31/2010 at 10:00 AM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Relax in Paradise

Gary Coleman (1968-2010)

Gary Coleman dies at 42 [USAT]Gary Coleman [Wiki]...

Butta | 05/28/2010 at 3:15 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Lalah Hathaway Serenades Patti LaBelle With A 'Song'

Earlier this week Patti LaBelle celebrated her 66th birthday at a star-studded surprise party in Los Angeles. In attendance were Stevie Wonder, Lalah Hathaway, Eddie Levert, Chrisette Michele and many more who came out to celebrate the incomparable LaBelle. With...

Butta | 05/28/2010 at 2:45 PM | Comments (11) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise, Media Watch

Badu Bares It All (Almost) For VIBE

Can't get enough of Erykah Badu's bare assets after seeing her "Window Seat" video? Well then be sure to pick up the June/July copy of VIBE magazine to see Low Down Loretta Brown in nothing but her birthday suit and...

Butta | 05/28/2010 at 1:15 PM | Comments (12) | Permalink

First Spin

Kanye West Does A 'Good Ass Job' On 'Power'

Go hard, or go home. That was clearly Kanye West's mantra when he stepped into the booth to record the song "Power," the first single from his upcoming fifth album, Good Ass Job. Produced by S1 aka Symbolyc One, best...

Butta | 05/28/2010 at 12:30 PM | Comments (9) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise, Events

Dionne Farris Will Be Sitting 'On Top Of The World' At CASRAM

I don't know about you, but I count Love Jones as one of the best love stories of all times. I'll be real, that credit is due, not only to the sizzling chemistry between Nia Long and Larenz Tate, the...

Moon | 05/28/2010 at 12:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

First Spin, Free Music

Kimberly Nichole Is All The 'Rage'

If you like your soul with a little more edge to it, then allow singer Kimberly Nichole to shake things up for you. In case you haven't heard of the Seattle-bred, New York City-based vocalist yet, then now is your chance to...

Butta | 05/28/2010 at 11:30 AM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Big Boi And Some Puppets Bring You 'Shutterbugg'

Sir Luscious Left Foot is ramping up to bring us his new album that feels like it's been on hold for an eternity. That's an overstatement. Regardless, his new single "Shutterbugg" knocks and the video brings some bizarre and pared...

Ro | 05/28/2010 at 11:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: You Know My Hips Don't Lie

Swizz Keys (Beatz Keys? Maybe just Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz) are getting married and expecting their first child. [PPL]Kelis and Nas are still going through divorce drama. Even though everything is final. Of course. [E!]The arbiter of both realness...

Ro | 05/28/2010 at 10:00 AM | Permalink

First Spin

Anthony David Wants You To 'Let Me In'

Well look who's back and returning as strong as ever, our main man Anthony David. It seems like forever ago that he dropped the feel-good single "4evermore" with Algebra and Phonte, with the promise of a new album in early...

Butta | 05/27/2010 at 4:00 PM | Comments (15) | Permalink

I Was There, Reviews

Dissection Of A Concert: DC Becomes Stevie Wonder-land

Last week, when we announced that Stevie Wonder was turning 60 years-old, we also hipped you to the fact that he would be coming to DC to perform at a free private concert at the Verizon Center. The concert was...

Moon | 05/27/2010 at 2:00 PM | Comments (7) | Permalink

SoulTube, Video SoulBounce

Janet Jackson Serves It Up On 'American Idol'

I weaned myself off of American Idol early this season once I saw the shallow talent pool that made it into the top 12. So even though last night's episode was also Simon Cowell's last, I refused to watch the...

Butta | 05/27/2010 at 12:15 PM | Comments (16) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Relive The AudioTRIP

AudioTRIP's maiden voyage in Washington, DC on Tuesday, May 18th was a smashing success. But all true DC tastemakers who were in attendance already know this. That night we were treated to a non-stop soundtrack from some of the best...

Butta | 05/27/2010 at 11:15 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Gotta Rub Me The Right Way

Walter Williams of The O'Jays reveals 30-year battle with Multiple Sclerosis. [BV]They are handing out record labels like Halloween candy these days. Just ask Ellen Degeneres. [IDOL]50 Cent is the biggest loser. [RR]American Idol said goodbye to Simon Cowell and...

Butta | 05/27/2010 at 10:00 AM | Comments (4) | Permalink

SoulTube, Video SoulBounce

Janelle Monáe Shows Ellen How To Dance Up On Them Haters

I don't know about anyone else, but I become more and more enamored with Janelle Monáe with each passing day, with each listen of The ArchAndroid and definitely each time I see her step on the scene on my television...

Butta | 05/26/2010 at 3:00 PM | Comments (22) | Permalink

First Spin

Saunders Sermons Makes It 'Rain'

After coming out of nowhere last year with his debut EP, Classic Delight, which both ill Mami and I (as well as many of you) fell hard for, Saunders Sermons is returning this August with two new projects for fans...

Butta | 05/26/2010 at 1:30 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Releases

Zo! & Friends To Bring The Heat With 'SunStorm'

If you thought the first half of 2010 was filled with some stellar releases and musical gems, then you aren't even ready for what the second half of the year will bring. Highest on my ever-growing list of Albums I...

Butta | 05/26/2010 at 12:15 PM | Comments (9) | Permalink

First Spin

J. Holiday's Sister Quineice Thinks She's 'Beautiful' And You May, Too

It's usually tough for an artist to get shine if they already have a famous relative who folks know and love. However, that may not be the case of petite powerhouse Quineice, sister to singer J. Holiday, who drops her...

Moon | 05/26/2010 at 11:30 AM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Let The Rhythm Take You Over

Congratulations on that Pussycat Doll child for winning Dancing With the Stars. [MTV]A Haitian remake of "Roxanne, Roxanne" is in the works organized by UTFO's Kangol Kid. [OTFPR]Kelly Rowland and LeToya Luckett ran into each other on the red carpet...

Butta | 05/26/2010 at 10:00 AM | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

LA Bouncers: Win Tickets To See The Foreign Exchange At The 24th Annual JazzReggae Festival!

If you are anywhere near Los Angeles this Memorial Day weekend, then make plans to attend the 24th Annual JazzReggae Festival on Sunday, May 30th (Jam Day) and Monday, May 31st (Reggae Day). Yes, that's this weekend, but don't despair...

Butta | 05/25/2010 at 6:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

First Spin

Make A 'Wish' With Dwele

In a little over a month--June 29th, to be exact--we'll have Dwele's new album, W.ants W.orld W.omen, in our hands and anticipation is on high after the banging first single and an intriguing teaser video from the project. Well, here's...

Butta | 05/25/2010 at 4:00 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Reach Out And 'Touch' Ginuwine

The concept for Ginuwine's new video for the song "Touch Me" may have sounded good and sexy on paper, but something got lost in translation. The video, helmed by director du jour Rik Cordero, is pretty simple: Ginuwine sings while...

Butta | 05/25/2010 at 2:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Vikter Duplaix's 'Love' Is So 'Electric'

Even though I saw a caveat that stressed Vikter Duplaix's new video for "Electric Love" is uncensored, I quickly started clicking buttons to see if I could view an improperly placed swath of skin or a nip slip. Instead--and I...

ill Mami | 05/25/2010 at 1:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Bounce-Worthy

Bounce-Worthy: noon:30

Many can thank acts like Living Colour, Saul Williams and Janelle Monáe for making it known that black folks choose to create music in genres other than R&B and hip hop. The all-girl group noon:30 out of Washington, DC is among those rising stars...

Moon | 05/25/2010 at 12:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

First Spin, Releases

Don't 'Shield' Your 'Love' From Nikko Gray

Perusing about Twitter during my lunch break yielded some interesting results. For example, not only did I not know that Nikko Gray had a full-length album ready to be heard, but that a single had just been released as well....

ill Mami | 05/25/2010 at 11:00 AM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: I've Dreamed Of This Love For So Long

Diddy will appear on Inside the Actor's Studio this evening. James Lipton seems especially smitten, geez. [MI] Christina Aguilera has decided to promote her new album Bionic and the film Burlesque in lieu of touring this summer. [MTV] Those...

huny | 05/25/2010 at 10:00 AM | Permalink

First Spin, Free Music

Beatchild + Ebrahim + Tingsek Fight The Good Fight On The 'War Within'

What happens when three singers/songwriters get in the studio and one of the three is amongst the hottest underground producers we've seen in a minute? Well, if you're SoulBounce fave Slakah the Beatchild and his friends Ebrahim and Tingsek, you...

Butta | 05/24/2010 at 5:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

First Spin, Free Music

Carlitta Durand Opens Her 'Robot Heart'

When its time to swing an episode, a good slow jam playlist (or mix CD, if you're old school) is a must. In case you need something new to add to yours, Carlitta Durand is here to the rescue. On...

Butta | 05/24/2010 at 2:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

First Spin

This 'Spottie' Version Is Hypnotic

My Janelle Monáe listening marathon keeps reminding me of those ever inventive and sorely missed boys from Outkast. Speaking of Outkast and their groundbreaking Aquemini album, I'd be hard-pressed to not choose "SpottieOttieDopaliscious" as one of my absolute favorite songs...

ill Mami | 05/24/2010 at 1:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Reviews

Leela James Shares Her 'Soul'

Big-voiced Leela James takes the new jacks of today back to the sound that our elders were dancing to in the '60s and '70s on her new album, My Soul. She wasn't playing when she named this album. When she...

Moon | 05/24/2010 at 12:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Releases

Plug In & Preview 'Brownswood Electric'

I'm all down for compilations of great music that require little fast-forwarding from me. My inherent laziness is most evident when it comes to my ever-expanding collection of mixes. Thankfully for me and those as lazy as myself--or not--we have...

ill Mami | 05/24/2010 at 11:00 AM | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Tell Me, Baby Girl, Cause I Need To Know

Justin Bieber has been nominated for a BET Award. South Central LA's reaction here. [YT]Notorious B.I.G. overrated? No. [MI]Another of Hip Hop's mysteries solved thanks to Posdnous of De La Soul. [TWTR]Michael Rapaport expounds upon the upcoming A Tribe Called...

ill Mami | 05/24/2010 at 10:00 AM | Comments (8) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

NYC Bouncers: Win Tickets To See The Foreign Exchange In Concert!

We end this week's giveaways just as we began the week--with something for our NYC Bouncers. But this just isn't any old ticket giveaway, up for grabs is a pair of tickets to see The Foreign Exchange when they come...

Butta | 05/21/2010 at 7:00 PM | Permalink

Soul Cynic, SoulTube

Here We Go Again, BET

It's been almost a year since that offensively awful 2009 BET Awards telecast that was so terrible you couldn't turn away--like one of those accidents out of the movie Final Destination. I learned how to Twitter while watching that show....

Moon | 05/21/2010 at 6:00 PM | Comments (11) | Permalink

Free Music, Pause For A Cause, The Interwebs

Start A Musical 'Revolution' And Help Collette Get Her Album Made

In this age of free downloads and disposable music, there are still artists out there who put a value on their work. As they should. Studio time doesn't just grow on trees, you know. It costs money to make...

Butta | 05/21/2010 at 4:00 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

First Spin

Lyfe Jennings Gives Us A 'Statistics' Lesson

When I was in college, one of my least favorite courses that I was required to take for my major was Probability and Statistics. It wasn't that I lacked the aptitude, but the ish was just boring as all hell....

Butta | 05/21/2010 at 1:30 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Bounce-Worthy

Bounce-Worthy: Tarica June

Hey, ladies. It's really nothing personal. I do have my favorite female emcees, but the majority of these Hip Hop mamas are older than me, much respect due. At this rate, Lauryn will seem more like a myth or an...

ill Mami | 05/21/2010 at 12:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Soul Cynic

Janelle Monáe ≠ Lady Gaga

After reading some comments on various sites that have been promoting Janelle Monáe's fantastic new album The ArchAndroid, I noticed a budding trend. The trend is people referring to Monáe as "the Black Lady Gaga." Just stop. Right now....

Ro | 05/21/2010 at 11:00 AM | Comments (24) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Gimme That Bomb Beat From Dre

Warning stroke? Get better soon, Bret Michaels! [UT]Suge Knight has been arrested. Sadly, this is not surprising. [MTV]Did anyone know that Omarion is on tour in Europe? [T40]Jill Scott thinks Cleveland rocks. [CS]...

Ro | 05/21/2010 at 10:00 AM | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

Baltimore Bouncers: Win Tickets To See The Foreign Exchange In Concert!

It's time to bless our Baltimore Bouncers with another hot ticket giveaway, and this is one of the hottest. The Foreign Exchange is coming back to town on Friday, June 4th with Nicolay, Phonte, YahZarah, Darien Brockington and Zo!...

Butta | 05/20/2010 at 7:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

First Spin, House of Soul

Sandra St. Victor Takes Us To The 'Cosmos'

When temperatures outside start to rise and the sun begins to hang around in the sky for a little longer each day, there's nothing that embodies the vibe of the season more than house music. It's the musical equivalent of...

Butta | 05/20/2010 at 5:30 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

First Spin

'Who's Gonna Love' This New Amerie Song?

Last night Amerie gifted her fans and Twitter followers with a brand new song, "Who's Gonna Love You," that her manager/fiancee posted online. I love Amerie--I really do--and I want to like this song--I really, really do--but it just isn't...

Butta | 05/20/2010 at 2:30 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Bounce-Worthy

Bounce-Worthy: Twin Cities

As the sunlight hours lengthen and the balm on your skin continues to become a welcome appearance on your yearning for sunkissed skin, you long for songs that seem to capture these moments and the thoughts you have during these...

ill Mami | 05/20/2010 at 12:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Quadron's Cool With You Not Understanding The Lyrics

While in Los Angeles, the Bounce-Worthy Danish group Quadron had a little jam session that the good folks over at Yours Truly captured for our viewing and listening pleasure. They sing "Herfra Hvor Vi Står" and don't bother to translate...

Ro | 05/20/2010 at 11:30 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: I Rock Rough And Stuff With My Afro Puffs

Janet Jackson takes it all off. Her hair, that is. [TGJ]Diddy's name is being thrown around as a replacement for Simon Cowell on American Idol. [MTV]Why, yes, D-Nice is definitely crush-worthy. [CM]Mariah Carey celebrated 20 years in the game this...

Butta | 05/20/2010 at 10:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

'Why Dontcha' Take A Trip To The '80s With YahZarah

Just when I thought that I couldn't fall in love with YahZarah's brand new album, The Ballad of Purple Saint James, anymore she ups and drops the video for "Why Dontcha Call Me No More" today, and I'm caught up...

Butta | 05/19/2010 at 3:30 PM | Comments (6) | Permalink

SoulTube, Video SoulBounce

Janelle Monáe Tips On Letterman's 'Tightrope'

There is a time in an artist's career when they go from being super to superstar, and after seeing Janelle Monáe on last night's episode of the Late Show with David Letterman, let's just say that she transformed before our...

Butta | 05/19/2010 at 2:30 PM | Comments (23) | Permalink

First Spin

Alicia Keys & Drake's 'Un-Thinkable' Remix Is Unnecessary

I have to admit that I'm torn between liking and disliking this remix of Alicia Keys' "Un-Thinkable (I'm Ready)" featuring rapper du jour Drake. I've already professed my love for this song, so it would take a whole lot to...

Butta | 05/19/2010 at 1:45 PM | Comments (11) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Is Diggy What We've 'Been Waiting For'?

I never recalled anyone in my immediate circle wondering aloud why is Diggy Simmons taking so long to release music of any kind. But that's okay since after watching the video for his debut single "What You Been Waiting For?"...

ill Mami | 05/19/2010 at 1:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Bounce-Worthy

Bounce-Worthy: Dionne

With charisma and soul that is in the same vein as Julie Dexter, Angela Johnson and Patrice Rushen, singer/songwriter Dionne captivates with her melodic vocals featured on her new single "Move" that is featured on her upcoming album Unrealistic, which drops this...

Moon | 05/19/2010 at 12:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: The Next Stop Is The Eastside Motel

Justin Bieber got nominated for a BET Award. I got nothing. [WH]Usher will receive the FiFi Award for his perfume. [SP]Rihanna is releasing yet another video from Rated Blah. [TRU]Thanks to Sound Canvas for showing us love. [SC]...

Butta | 05/19/2010 at 10:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

First Spin, Free Music, House of Soul

Badu's '20 Feet Tall' Gets Seasoned With A Little 'Spice'

If you've been waiting to hear a remix of anything from Erykah Badu's New Amerykah Part Two: Return of the Ankh that will lead you to break out into a soul clap, then your wait is over. Toronto-based DJ/producer/radio host...

Butta | 05/18/2010 at 5:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Dwele Wants To Change The 'W.orld'

Not for nothing, Dwele's YouTube game is imperial. He makes some of the most well-produced, on-the-fly videos just on GP, but when he sits down to really put something together--as he has with this commercial to promote his new album...

Butta | 05/18/2010 at 4:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

First Spin

The-Dream's Aaliyah Cover Is 'One' Of The Worst

If Aaliyah wasn't already singing with the angels, then surely this remake of her song "One In A Million" by The-Dream would have put her six feet under. His version is so bad that I'm about to make out...

Butta | 05/18/2010 at 3:15 PM | Comments (7) | Permalink

The Interwebs

The Twitterverse Shows Us That Less Is Sometimes More

Remember when we followed our favorite artists on MySpace, thrilled when they took time out of their busy existence to add us as one of their "friends"? So eager to be in the stratosphere of someone we enjoy(ed) musically, we...

Moon | 05/18/2010 at 1:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Reviews

Janelle Monáe Is 'The ArchAndroid'

As difficult as it may be to listen to an entire album from start to finish in this Age of the Internet, The ArchAndroid should probably be experienced at least once from start to finish. Imagined by Janelle Monáe as an...

Ro | 05/18/2010 at 12:00 PM | Comments (16) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Idris Elba & 9th Wonder 'Hold' This Track Down

I'm not going to say much in the form of criticism when it comes to the video for "Hold On" by Idris Elba King DRIIS. What is has going for it is that it's produced by 9th Wonder and Idris...

ill Mami | 05/18/2010 at 11:00 AM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Cause It's 187 On A Undercover Cop

Even more baffling than Jennifer Hudson being cast as Winnie Mandela in an upcoming feature film, is Terrence Howard snagging the role of Nelson Mandela. [C+D]In other WHAT THE HELL news, Terrence Howard is also in negrotiations to play Marvin...

Butta | 05/18/2010 at 10:00 AM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Interviews, SoulBounce Presents, Video SoulBounce

SoulBounce Presents: The Bounce Featuring Darien

If you've been following SoulBounce for any length of time, then the name Darien should be very familiar to you. We deemed him Bounce-Worthy way back in 2008, and his star has done nothing but rise since that time. We've...

Butta | 05/17/2010 at 8:30 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

NYC Bouners: Win Tickets To See Peter Hadar In Concert!

NYC Bouncers, today is definitely your lucky day and this week is the week to get it in at any of the various live shows happening in the city. If you have yet to attend Peter Hadar's monthly residency at Ella,...

Butta | 05/17/2010 at 7:00 PM | Permalink

Relax in Paradise

Hank Jones (1918-2010)

Hank Jones, Versatile Jazz Pianist, Dies at 91 [NYT]Hank Jones [Wiki][NPR]...

Ro | 05/17/2010 at 6:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Rap Snacks, Releases

The Roots To Get 'Over' This June

After numerous delays and push backs, it looks as if Def Jam will finally release The Roots' new album, How I Got Over, on June 22nd--yes, as in next month. It's hard to believe that the Legendary Roots Crew's 11th...

Butta | 05/17/2010 at 5:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

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

I told you earlier that NYC had it going on this week on the live music tip, and in case you didn't believe me, then just check out Sol Village going down this Wednesday, May 19 at S.O.B.'s. The monthly...

Butta | 05/17/2010 at 3:00 PM | Permalink

Soul On Film

This 'Battle' Might Need More 'Juice'

From the producer of You Got Served and the director of Beatmakers comes Battle, a coming-of-age tale about an Atlanta-area producer who balances beats and school to fulfill his dream of winning a beat battle. Though Movieweb may have described...

ill Mami | 05/17/2010 at 2:00 PM | Permalink

Diggin' in the Crates

Ron G Makes Us 'Feel' Something Special

Back when this photo was taken, I more likely than not was glued to my tape deck making pause tapes of DJ Red Alert on Friday nights on KISS-FM in New York City. I don't mean to make this post...

ill Mami | 05/17/2010 at 1:00 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

NYC Bouncers: Win Tickets To See Marsha Ambrosius In Concert!

This is the kinda week that I wish that I lived in New York City. Why? Because there are a rack of hot shows going down in Gotham this week, and we got the hook up for each and every...

Butta | 05/17/2010 at 12:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

First Spin

Sarah White's 'Fade' Refuses To Do Just That

One of my pet peeves that I see more often than I wish on various music blogs are remixes of songs that are too old or uninteresting to remain relevant months or years later. Yet Sarah White's "Fade," which we...

ill Mami | 05/17/2010 at 11:00 AM | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Getting Funky On The Mic Like An Old Batch Of Collard Greens

Scarface wants no part of this year's VH1 Hip Hop Honors. [OM]The hacker who infiltrated Solar's Twitter and email accounts just wanted "the truth out." [MI]Erykah Badu, Nas and others explain exactly who Jay Electronica is. [REM]Regarding Chris Brown,...

ill Mami | 05/17/2010 at 10:00 AM | Comments (3) | Permalink

First Spin

Leela James & Raheem DeVaughn Are 'Incredible' & 'Unforgettable'

In the event that you slept on Leela James' last album of cover tunes, then don't be the same fool twice when it comes to her new disc, My Soul, in stores May 25th. We've already heard exhibit A, "Tell...

Butta | 05/14/2010 at 4:00 PM | Comments (11) | Permalink

First Spin

Do Not Get Caught Up In Alicia Keys' 'Rapture'

Leave it to Alicia Keys to take a step up only to take 20 back. Just when she was working her way back into my good graces with the bonafide gem, "Un-Thinkable (I'm Ready)," she ups and remakes Blondie's "Rapture" with...

Butta | 05/14/2010 at 2:30 PM | Comments (21) | Permalink

Soul Cynic

Do Indie Artists Make Better Music Or Is That Just A Myth?

Entertainers would have us all to believe that the listening audience is a fickle lot. One second we are heralding an act as the greatest thing since sliced bread, then, when someone or something comes along with a catchier tune,...

Moon | 05/14/2010 at 1:30 PM | Comments (18) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise, Soul On Film

Mary J. Blige to Play Nina Simone? Hmmm...

It's hard to know how to feel about the news that Mary J. Blige will be playing Nina Simone in an upcoming biopic. It's truly perplexing. Not because Mary doesn't have the chops, singing or acting. (I think.) But because...

Ro | 05/14/2010 at 11:00 AM | Comments (21) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Writing's On The Wall

C'mon, Lil Wayne. You know there are no MP3s in prison. [TCC]Russell Crowe sings "Beautiful Girls" by Sean Kingston. Enough said. [SC]This concert review suggests that Rihanna's elaborate costumes and props can't disguise the "multiple personalities" of her music. [GD]With...

Ro | 05/14/2010 at 10:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise, Events

Stevie Wonder Turns 60, Free Concert Planned In DC

Today is Stevie Wonder's 60th birthday, and the legendary singer deserves a happy-dance and his song "Happy Birthday" sung in his honor for consistently bringing us classic soul that endures over time. But, while speaking of happy dances, it looks...

Moon | 05/13/2010 at 1:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise, Reggae Riddims, Releases

Ziggy Marley Goes Disney On Us

Celine Dion became known across the world when she did "it" with Peabo Bryson for Aladdin. Christina Aguilera did it for Mulan before she broke big. Vanessa Williams did it for Pocahontas during the heyday of her musical career. What...

Moon | 05/13/2010 at 11:30 AM | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: U Really Got A Hold On Me

Four reasons why children do not need to be exposed to Beyoncé. [IDOL]Now that rapper Lady Sovereign has come out of the closet, who should be next? [SP]Let this new disc of Kanye West lullabies put your baby to sleep....

Butta | 05/13/2010 at 10:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Robin Thicke & Snoop Dogg Want To Give It To You 'In The Mornin''

There's nothing like some good morning wood. Wait, did I say that out loud? Well, we're all adults here and since a lot of Robin Thicke's music needs a parental advisory sticker on it nowadays, it's quite appropriate. Especially with...

Butta | 05/12/2010 at 4:45 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Soul Cynic

Does Music With A Message Still Matter?

When Raheem DeVaughn was interviewed by NPR last month, he made it clear that he took seriously his role as an artist and someone with the power to impact world issues through his music. He said, "No matter what road...

Moon | 05/12/2010 at 2:30 PM | Comments (8) | Permalink

First Spin

Pac Div Is Worth The 'Mention'

I am only an expert in music that I enjoy listening to. Makes obvious sense, so I am only mentioning this as a way of explaining that I know only very peripheral details about Pac Div. I know they are...

ill Mami | 05/12/2010 at 12:30 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Alicia Keys Is 'Ready' For An Interracial Romance

After teasing us with a brief clip from her new video for "Un-thinkable (I'm Ready)" a couple days ago, Alicia Keys released the full monty today and it's as good as I suspected it would be. Alicia takes us on...

Butta | 05/12/2010 at 11:30 AM | Comments (10) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Rubber Duckie, You're The One

Has Swizz Beatz deposited a baby into the bank of Alicia Keys? [BV]Zo! takes us behind the scenes of the making of YahZarah's "Shadow." [MA]Get ready for a new John Legend album later this year. [AOAAD]It's good to see Cassie...

Butta | 05/12/2010 at 10:00 AM | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

KEM Tells Us All About 'Intimacy'

We've already gotten a taste of what KEM is cooking up with the behind-the-scenes video that he dropped last week to promote his upcoming album, Intimacy. Now we get to go a little deeper and hear the man describe what...

Butta | 05/11/2010 at 4:50 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Drake Finds 'Love' And Danger In Jamaica

I've done a good job of not guzzling the Drake Kool-Aid like so many music writers have, but I might take a little sip after watching the fresh outta the oven visuals to his song "Find Your Love." Although prior...

Butta | 05/11/2010 at 1:30 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Mary J. Blige & Trey Songz Make 'Hood Love' Look Real Dysfunctional

Mary J. Blige gets an A for effort for still trying to make her last album, Stronger with Each Tear, relevant with the release of a video for the song "We Got Hood Love." Unfortunately that hood love aint exactly...

Butta | 05/11/2010 at 12:30 PM | Comments (7) | Permalink

First Spin

Common & Queen Latifah Do Us 'Wright'

This Friday the feature flick Just Wright rolls into theaters, and despite my earlier reservations, I'm actually excited to see this joint now. Common and Queen Latifah have been doing the damn thing on the promotion tip--they are everywhere from...

Butta | 05/11/2010 at 11:00 AM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: He's Got A Song

This year's Hip Hop Honors will be all about the Dirty South. [VH1] Lena Horne did not take racial slurs lightly. [TDB] Just Blaze and Alchemist recount their first encounters with Jay-Z, Dame Dash, Eminem and Mobb Deep. [2DB]...

huny | 05/11/2010 at 10:00 AM | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Reflection Eternal & Estelle Bring It In The 'Midnight Hour'

Reflection Eternal rides the retro-futuristic wave in their new video for the track "Midnight Hour." The video is pretty simple yet visually fly. Talib Kweli looks all types of handsome in his slim Civil Rights suit and Hi-Tek holds it...

Butta | 05/10/2010 at 4:45 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Will Alicia Keys Do The 'Un-Thinkable' In Her Next Video?

I have a confession to make: I freaking love Alicia Keys' song "Un-Thinkable (I'm Ready)." This was the sleeper on her last release, The Element of Freedom, which I never really got into until I started hearing this song randomly...

Butta | 05/10/2010 at 1:30 PM | Comments (8) | Permalink

The Mixologists

The Mixologists: DJ 1Derful

I have been a fan of DJ 1Derful's ever since DigitalDJs.com was in existence. The website and its killer mixes may now be defunct, but this DJ has been going strong for quite some time. His House mixes are always...

ill Mami | 05/10/2010 at 12:00 PM | Permalink

First Spin, Industry & Culture, Video SoulBounce

Hopefully David Banner's Gatorade Ad Helps More Ears 'Evolve'

I have long been complaining about modern R&B's male singers not being something I'm used to. As in men who sound like men. Gruff, sometimes guttural, church-raised voices whose secular side can sometimes coax women out of underthings covering nether...

ill Mami | 05/10/2010 at 11:00 AM | Comments (8) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Say How Do You Do

Note to Toyota: This is a parody of modern Hip Hop. Now just stop. [KMBA]Weezy loves his kids and their mamas. All of them. [WTY]How cute of Common to interview Queen Latifah. [YT]"RZA Now Orson Welles, Basically" now that his...

ill Mami | 05/10/2010 at 10:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Relax in Paradise

Lena Horne (1917-2010)

Lena Horne, Singer and Actress, Dies at 92 [NYT] Lena Horne [Wiki]...

ill Mami | 05/10/2010 at 2:00 AM | Comments (7) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, SoulBounce Presents

SoulBounce Presents: Maysa 'Spend Some Time' Remix Contest

SoulBounce and Shanachie Entertainment are proud to present the Maysa "Spend Some Time" Remix Contest! Fresh from the release of her seventh solo album, A Woman In Love, the underground diva is seeking a remix to the first single, "Spend...

Butta | 05/07/2010 at 5:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

Atlanta Bouncers: Win Tickets To See The Foreign Exchange In Concert!

We're capping off our week of giveaways with something special for our Atlanta Bouncers. The Foreign Exchange is coming to town on Friday, May 21st, and we're hooking up two Atliens with a pair of tickets each to see the...

Butta | 05/07/2010 at 12:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Crowd Participation

Janet Is 'Figuring Out Her Landscape'

Well, at least according to Jermaine Dupri, she is. Should Janet stop making albums? This off-shoot of the larger, music industry-wide question of the future of full albums of music feels strange. She made it clear that she'll still be...

Ro | 05/07/2010 at 11:00 AM | Comments (24) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Everybody's Looking For Something

Joaquin Phoenix's foray into hip hop might be featured in his upcoming mockumentary. [EW]What could Oprah possibly have to say to N.E.R.D.? [TMZ]Hip hop <3's moms. [SLNT]Teachers, give your class a viral video lesson. New York Times approved! [NYT]...

Ro | 05/07/2010 at 10:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

LA Bouncers: Win Tickets To Attend 'Strictly Social' With Sy Smith, Mark de Clive-Lowe And Erik Rico!

We haven't hooked up our Los Angeles Bouncers ever since GRAMMY weekend back in January, so it's high time to show our West Coast fam some love once again. We've teamed up with the good people at Nu-Soul Magazine to...

Butta | 05/06/2010 at 6:00 PM | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

'Why Don't You' Go Take A Break Now, Beyoncé?

Far be it for me to say that Beyoncé put the ho in housewife in her video for the song "Why Don't You Love Me," but could she look any skankier in the role of B.B. Homemaker? I'm sure that...

Butta | 05/06/2010 at 2:45 PM | Comments (21) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise

Sergio Mendes To Bring The 'Bon Tempo'

Sergio Mendes' 2006 release Timeless is part of my cherished list of Top 20 Albums of All Time. Yes, I love the album just that much. My Top 20 consists of records that you can listen to from start to...

Moon | 05/06/2010 at 1:15 PM | Comments (4) | Permalink

Events

All Aboard The AudioTRIP

I don't know about anyone else, but I love to go out of town. Whether it's a quick jaunt to NYC or a fabulous getaway to somewhere in the Caribbean, there's nothing like packing your bags and getting away from...

Butta | 05/06/2010 at 11:00 AM | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: When The Working Day Is Done

Nas is crying broke to get his child support payments to Kelis reduced. [SONYC]Mariah Carey is threatening to release another album this year. [TFB]Prince rocked out at the Time 100 gala. [PBB]Jay-Z gets Betty White excited. [WH]So this is Drake's...

Butta | 05/06/2010 at 10:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

San Francisco Bouncers: Win Tickets To See N'dambi In Concert!

San Francisco Bouncers, get ready to fall under N'dambi's spell when the statuesque thriller comes to your area for the first time on Wednesday, May 12th. N'dambi will be debuting at Yoshi's San Francisco, and we have a pair of...

Butta | 05/05/2010 at 6:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Reviews

Toni Braxton's 'Pulse' Barely Beats On New CD

Before listening to Toni Braxton's new album, Pulse, I watched The Wendy Williams Show this morning to check out Toni's performance of "Hands Tied" and the singer, clad in a sexy cat suit with rope as an accessory, performed well,...

Moon | 05/05/2010 at 3:00 PM | Comments (16) | Permalink

Soul Cynic, SoulTube, Video SoulBounce

Will Michael Lynche Be The Next Ruben Studdard On 'Idol'?

I can be honest and say that I have watched barely three episodes of this season's American Idol. While the show irritated me early on in its newness when the race came down to Tamyra Gray and Kelly Clarkson and...

Moon | 05/05/2010 at 1:30 PM | Comments (11) | Permalink

Mixtape Roundup

The Mood Is 'Just Wright' Yet Again With Volume 2

So maybe you missed out on Twilite Tone's first volume full of delectable love songs especially prepared just for Just Wright, Queen Latifah and Common's new basketball-centric love story with nary a cross-dressed man or Tyler Perry nuance in sight....

ill Mami | 05/05/2010 at 12:00 PM | Comments (5) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Who You Calling A Walrus, Jesse Boykins III?

Hardy har har. I know you have really been singing--sorry, sanging "Amorous"--ever since I fell in love with this track two winters ago. I'm sort of salty that it took you so long to make this video, Jesse Boykins III,...

ill Mami | 05/05/2010 at 11:00 AM | Comments (6) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: No Promises, No Demands

Congratulations to Big Daddy Kane and his bride Shawnette who were wed over the weekend. [SC]Alice Tan Ridley a/k/a Gabourey Sidibe's mom blew the subway doors off of this Gladys Knight classic. [YT]According to this Hip Hop Word Counting tool,...

ill Mami | 05/05/2010 at 10:00 AM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

DC Bouncers: Win Tickets To See YahZarah & Darien Brockington In Concert!

Raise your hand if you have yet to purchase your copy of YahZarah's The Ballad of Purple Saint James, in stores and available online today. Now take that hand and slap yourself about the face because you are missing out...

Butta | 05/04/2010 at 6:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

KEM Takes Us Behind The Scenes Of 'Intimacy'

After last week's incredible response to KEM's single "Why Would You Stay," the first from his third album Intimacy, there's more good news to report for fans of the soulful crooner. A new promo video has been filmed for the...

Butta | 05/04/2010 at 4:00 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

How Did Sade's 'Babyfather' Let This Go?

OK, Sade. We get it. You're 51 and fine as all hell. Must you continue to rub it in? As if we needed another reminder of the power of good genes, good living, good loving and goodness knows what else,...

Butta | 05/04/2010 at 2:30 PM | Comments (7) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Wale Opens Up A Black Girl's 'Diary'

Wale hits us with his best shot--or make that his best video to date--with the clip for "Diary" from his debut album, Attention Deficit. Rik Cordero, who has become the go-to hip hop video director of late, is behind the...

Butta | 05/04/2010 at 1:15 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Jaheim Finds His 'Way Back' In New Video

Since debuting his newest CD Another Round, Jaheim has demonstrated that he is doing what it takes to stay in the game for the long run. The new video for his single "Finding My Way Back" is making it easy...

Moon | 05/04/2010 at 12:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Who Wears Short Shorts? Beyoncé Wears Short Shorts!

Hey, at least those coupled with the thigh highs are in the realm of pants. I know, I know. Not really, right? Anyway, this little retro-themed teaser clip for Beyoncé's "Why Don't You Love Me" video would be more campy...

Ro | 05/04/2010 at 11:00 AM | Comments (2) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: Just An Invitation Woulda Been Just Fine

Following in the steps of Fantasia, Jordin Sparks has gone from American Idol to Broadway. [MTV]Congratulations to the winner of Eric Roberson's "Tale of Two" remix contest! [BES]Nothing says "I love you, Mom" like some sweet soul music. [AR&B]Just when...

Butta | 05/04/2010 at 10:00 AM | Permalink

Contests & Giveaways, Events

Baltimore Bouncers: Win Tickets To Get 'Connected' With YahZarah

It's no secret that we've been waiting for YahZarah's new album, The Ballad of Purple Saint James, around these parts, and in a matter of hours we'll have that bad boy in our hands. Even more exciting than that is...

Butta | 05/03/2010 at 6:30 PM | Comments (1) | Permalink

Video SoulBounce

Freeway Makes The Ladies Feel 'Alright'

We're used to seeing rappers who couldn't pull the beautiful females who appear in their videos unless they were rappers making videos, so we don't really have to suspend belief too much when watching the latest visuals from Freeway for...

Butta | 05/03/2010 at 2:00 PM | Comments (2) | Permalink

A Soulful Noise

Gamble & Huff To Receive Honorary Doctorates

Legendary hit-making duo Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff will receive their first honorary doctor of music degrees from Berklee College of Music during this year's commencement ceremony. The honor marks the first time the creators of the "Sound of Philadelphia"...

Ivory | 05/03/2010 at 11:30 AM | Comments (3) | Permalink

Morning Soul

Morning Soul: You Want To Want Me But You Can't Let Go

According to MySpace voters, Michael Jackson's "Thriller" is the most groundbreaking video. They needed a vote for that? [SP]Read this based on the title alone: "The Bisexual Woman: Hip-Hop's Shug Avery." [CM]The All Music Guide reviews YahZarah's newness, The Ballad...

Butta | 05/03/2010 at 10:00 AM | Comments (1) | Permalink

First Spin, Free Music

You Would 'Want' To Download This Theophilus London Mixtape

We're so happy that rapper Theophilus London believes that sharing is caring as he continues to pump out these free mixtapes for us. He dropped his third, I Want You, this Wednesday and fans of his eclectic blend of hip...

Butta | 05/01/2010 at 2:00 PM | Comments (3) | Permalink