This is the first in a series of posts that looks at remakes, and whether or not the remake stacks up to the original. I'm the Brutha that usually defers to the original but sometimes the remake can surpass or equal the original version.
1. Who Can I Run To (1979 & 1995)
The Jones Sisters-Original 1979 Version
Xscape- 1995 remake
VERDICT: Both are GREAT versions but I will give the edge to Xscape
2. Wednesday Lover(1989 and 1998)
The Gap Band-- 1989 Original
Jagged Edge- 1998 Remake
VERDICT: While JE did a good version, and one that I use to play a lot........the winner here is the original. Charlie Wilson is just too GREAT for JE to overcome.
3. All I Do Is Think of You (1975 and 1990)
Jackson 5 (1975 Original)
Troop(1990 remake)
VERDICT: I LOVE the Jackson 5 but I think Troop stole this and made it a signature hit. 1990 was a GREAT year..lol
4. Sweet November (1985 & 1992)
The Deele (1985 Original)
Troop (1992 remake)
VERDICT: Once again Troop stole this from the original artist and made it signature. They were so bold to make 2 versions of this song and both were stellar.
5. At Your Best (You Are Love) 1976 & 1994
Isley Brothers 1976 Original
Aaliyah 1994 remake
VERDICT: It pains me but I have to give this Aaliyah. Her version wasnt as sexy as the Isley Brothers but it was certainly one of her strongest vocal displays ever and was romantic. It was a tough assignment but Aaliyah tackled a great track and succeeded.
6. Just Can't Stay Away (1978 & 1990)
Natalie Cole (1978 original)
EnVogue (1990 remake)
VERDICT: Natalie hands down. EnVogue did do a good cover though.
7. All I Could Do Was Cry- (1960 & 2008)
Etta James 1960 Original
Beyonce- 2008 remake
VERDICT: This is an easy one for me. ETTA JAMES ALL DAY. Bey did a credible job with the song but the one thing that I hate about Beyonce and its clearly contrasted here in the two versions is her lack of soul. Bey sung hard and tried but she just doesn't have the soul required to make her version on par with Etta.
8. Love Don't Live Here Anymore (1978 & 1995)
Rose Royce (1978 Original)
Faith Evans & Mary J Blige (1995 remake)
VERDICT: I think the remake is on par with the original. Faith & Mary sounded so good together. They should do a duets album.
9. Love's Train (1983 & 1996)
Confunkshun (1983 Original)
Dru Hill (1997 Remake)
VERDICT: Dru Hill should have left well enough alone.
10. Yearning For Your Love (1981 & 1990)
Gap Band (1981 Original)
Guy(1990 remake)
VERDICT: Considering that Aaron's whole style was inspired by Charlie Wilson I thought this would have been on par with the Gap Band original, but I found the remake lacking I think its the backing vocals that mess it up. Aaron is great though but give me the Charlie Wilson and Gap Band original ALL DAY
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
Hottest Interludes
I'm not gonna rank these but thought I'd throw out a few of the hottest interludes. Interludes were HUGE in the 90's.. almost every album had one or five..lol
I Dedicate Part 1,2,3- Brandy. The year was 1994 and I had those interludes on REPEAT. They really showed off the smokey alto that Brandy had and what a developed voice for 14 years old.
Thank You (the JG interlude) This was featured on New Edition 1996 album Home Again. Point blank Johnny Gill tore it up.. nuff said. I almost classified as a song but since they called it an interlude so will I..lol
Thank You Lord/You Are My Joy/Faith- Faith Evans For me Faith's interludes were always great. I wish You are My Joy was made into a full song. It was so beautiful.
Anything- SWV This one was later made into a full song and was a banger but for me the Interlude reigns supreme. Coko sounded great and harmony was fantastic.
Anything- Carl Thomas The album was a press play banger and all of the interludes worked amazingly well. Carl isnt the strongest singer but his voice is used to its max potential
Intro/Sermon- R. Kelly I just love the way Kells preaches and sings at the same time
All 112 Interludes These dudes are the kings of interludes for me.. need more proof check any of their albums
I Dedicate Part 1,2,3- Brandy. The year was 1994 and I had those interludes on REPEAT. They really showed off the smokey alto that Brandy had and what a developed voice for 14 years old.
Thank You (the JG interlude) This was featured on New Edition 1996 album Home Again. Point blank Johnny Gill tore it up.. nuff said. I almost classified as a song but since they called it an interlude so will I..lol
Thank You Lord/You Are My Joy/Faith- Faith Evans For me Faith's interludes were always great. I wish You are My Joy was made into a full song. It was so beautiful.
Anything- SWV This one was later made into a full song and was a banger but for me the Interlude reigns supreme. Coko sounded great and harmony was fantastic.
Anything- Carl Thomas The album was a press play banger and all of the interludes worked amazingly well. Carl isnt the strongest singer but his voice is used to its max potential
Intro/Sermon- R. Kelly I just love the way Kells preaches and sings at the same time
All 112 Interludes These dudes are the kings of interludes for me.. need more proof check any of their albums
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Album Review: Trey Songz "Ready"
Trey Songz is back with his 3rd solo record, entitled "Ready". Finally I think Trey gets it. Vocally this is the most consistent album he has released so far... below is my track by track breakdown
1. Panty Dropper (interlude)- clearly he is making a statement out of the gate...R. kelly influence is so prevalent here.
2. Neighbors Know My Name- Trey exclaims because he loves his girl so hard and her screaming makes the neighbors know his name...LOL... I can definitely hear this on the radio. He connects on the falsetto and the music is great. Certainly a late night banger.
3. I Invented Sex feat Drake- Here songs teams up with rapper of the moment Drake and creates a listenable record. Drake and Trey blends well together. No vocal challenges here but I wouldnt necessarily hit skip on the Ipod.
4. I Need A Girl- At first I was really digging this track but as I listened to the whole album I noted the desperation to re-create his hit Can't Help But Wait from his last album and I got turned off from it. But this is a Johnta Austin penned track so it gets a pass.
5. One Love- is produced by Bryan Michael Cox. The song is catchy and features a rock edge which works well with Trey's vocals.
6. Does He Do It- typical Trey... solid and catchy
7. Say Aahh- produced by long time collaborator Troy Taylor. Solid and good verse from Fabolous.
8. LOL:-) (feat. Gucci Mane and Soulja Boy Tell 'Em) - I tried to resist this tune, but it just seems to seep into your head and won't let go which means it will likely be a hit. Tune feat Gucci Mane and Soulja Boy. It sounds like a nursery rhyme but I do think Trey recorded for effect and not meant it as a defining record
9. Ready to Make Love- Another Interlude
10. Jupiter Love- babymaker.. straight up
11. Be Where You Are- Here Trey experiments with a faster electo dance sound and surprisingly it works for him..i dont need an album of it but it works in context of the album
12. Successful feat Drake- not much else to say about this track.. its all over Radio and deserves to be.
13. Black Roses- song about dying love....Trey sounds great on this track.. Troy Taylor really knows Trey's strengths as a vocalist
14. Love Lost-solid track
15. Hollerlude- another interlude
16. Holla If You Need Me- for some reason i keep getting a 80's vibe from this production. I LOVE IT
17. Yo Side of the Bed- MY FAVORITE TRACK ON THE ALBUM. This song is like a Prince meets R. Kelly. Trey puts emotion and delivers a stellar vocal on this track. Wishing his girl was still on her side of the bed... just a great record.
I expect this album to put Trey on another level, which I think he deserves. He has grown tremendously. I have been on Team Trey since Day 1 and while I have had issues with his musical choices in the past I think he is learning and growing and the result is this album... so get READY for Trey Songz.....
9 out of 10.... FIRE
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
10 Favorite Michael Jackson Videos
Thought I would take this time to reflect upon 10 of my favorite MJ videos. We have lost the last of our icons in the passing of the King of Pop. In Tribute here are my 10 favorite vids
1. Smooth Criminal- It was hard to choose between this and Remember the Time but I think I give the edge to Smooth Criminal. This dude was poppin and gliding long before Ciara, Ginuwine, Usher Chris Brown...and BETTER than all the aforementioned. The "lean" was the highlight. I was mesmerized when I first saw it. Who was Annie?..lol
2. Remember the Time- The dance breakdown in this is AWESOME. I remember the world premier for this video in 92. Visually a stunning video and having Iman and Eddie Murphy didnt hurt. Also one of the best New Jack Swing era songs.
3. Beat It- This one the first time MJ resolved conflict by jazz dancing...lol.. this is such and iconic video this is what inspired black boys to want to be like Mike.. the jacket, the moves, the coolness.
Michael Jackson - Beat It music video
Uploaded by liquiddreams54. - Music videos, artist interviews, concerts and more.
4. Thriller- probably one of the greatest videos ever, certainly one of the most expensive. This video really changed the game for music videos FOREVER. How fine was Ola Ray in this video..lol
5. The Way You Make Me Feel- One of my favorite MJ songs period. This video was simple in concept but some how it transcends simple and become a work of art(i guess that describes MJ). Why was that fine girl doing in the alley by herself...lol
6. Billie Jean- i mean its Billie Jean.. and who didnt want to walk and have the street light up...lol. MJ was having baby mama drama long before Maury..lol
7. Scream- we wondered when it would happen and in 1995 it finally did. MJ and baby sis Janet not only did a song together but a video too and it became a smash hit. Janet was hot in a futuristic way.
8. Earth Song- many people dont care for this song nor this video but if you watch it closely and get the concept it is a pretty deep video. I just love the way the Earth gets destroyed and then come back to life. Conceptually its one of MJ finest works. MJ was "go green" before it was popular.. this man is a trendsetter people..lol
9. Bad- The second time MJ solved a conflict by jazz dancing. This was originally suppose to be a duet between he and Prince but Prince backed out so MJ took it and turned it into a hit. Now the video is pure COMEDY, I must give props to Wesley Snipes b/c he acted his ass off because there is no way I could have played that part without laughing at Michael and his attempts at being "bad", especially at the end when Michael is getting all call and response..lol
10. Rock With You- just a brother in what appears to be a glitter one piece and glitter boots.... this was before MJ was a SUPERSTAR and videos were kinda just like this.. especially R&B videos.
1. Smooth Criminal- It was hard to choose between this and Remember the Time but I think I give the edge to Smooth Criminal. This dude was poppin and gliding long before Ciara, Ginuwine, Usher Chris Brown...and BETTER than all the aforementioned. The "lean" was the highlight. I was mesmerized when I first saw it. Who was Annie?..lol
2. Remember the Time- The dance breakdown in this is AWESOME. I remember the world premier for this video in 92. Visually a stunning video and having Iman and Eddie Murphy didnt hurt. Also one of the best New Jack Swing era songs.
3. Beat It- This one the first time MJ resolved conflict by jazz dancing...lol.. this is such and iconic video this is what inspired black boys to want to be like Mike.. the jacket, the moves, the coolness.
Michael Jackson - Beat It music video
Uploaded by liquiddreams54. - Music videos, artist interviews, concerts and more.
4. Thriller- probably one of the greatest videos ever, certainly one of the most expensive. This video really changed the game for music videos FOREVER. How fine was Ola Ray in this video..lol
5. The Way You Make Me Feel- One of my favorite MJ songs period. This video was simple in concept but some how it transcends simple and become a work of art(i guess that describes MJ). Why was that fine girl doing in the alley by herself...lol
6. Billie Jean- i mean its Billie Jean.. and who didnt want to walk and have the street light up...lol. MJ was having baby mama drama long before Maury..lol
7. Scream- we wondered when it would happen and in 1995 it finally did. MJ and baby sis Janet not only did a song together but a video too and it became a smash hit. Janet was hot in a futuristic way.
8. Earth Song- many people dont care for this song nor this video but if you watch it closely and get the concept it is a pretty deep video. I just love the way the Earth gets destroyed and then come back to life. Conceptually its one of MJ finest works. MJ was "go green" before it was popular.. this man is a trendsetter people..lol
9. Bad- The second time MJ solved a conflict by jazz dancing. This was originally suppose to be a duet between he and Prince but Prince backed out so MJ took it and turned it into a hit. Now the video is pure COMEDY, I must give props to Wesley Snipes b/c he acted his ass off because there is no way I could have played that part without laughing at Michael and his attempts at being "bad", especially at the end when Michael is getting all call and response..lol
10. Rock With You- just a brother in what appears to be a glitter one piece and glitter boots.... this was before MJ was a SUPERSTAR and videos were kinda just like this.. especially R&B videos.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
10 Underrated Male R&B Singers
Some of the fellas listed below may or may not be actively recording, some have had massive success others haven't. For those that know me knows I love a good voice (no voice is greater than Donny Hathaway) but God didnt bless everyone (lol). But the brothers listed below are voices that i find interesting and should be applauded for their vocal gifts. I dont consider this ranking a best to worse but just 10 singers I think deserve some recognition and why I think they are underrated
1. Stokley (from Mint Condition)- If you have ever seen this band live then you know the ridiculous range this brother has.. he can go from top to bottom and back again. Stokely's tenor is amazing and restrained.. you just wait for him to break it down on Pretty Brown Eyes. He even tackles the impossible Phillip Bailey on a remake of Earth Wind and Fire's After the Love Is Gone.
2. Eric Roberson- This DC native's voice is simply an instrument to behold. I dont find him as "range-y" as some of the other singers on this list but his voice is pretty and he emotes well on his songs.. he can truly tell a story with his awesome gift.
3. Frank McComb- He is ALMOST the second coming of Donny Hathaway. The phrasing and instrumentation is very close to Donny.. I just think he misses the passion of Mr. Hathaway. Frank, like Eric Roberson, had one of the purest vocal tones I've heard in a LONG time. I recommend When You Call My Name to introduce yourself to Frank McComb. His voice simply floats over the music. You will not be disappointed by his voice.
4. Lil G (from Silk)- I never gave him much credit or attention but one Saturday afternoon i was sitting around watching Showtime at the Apollo and I was absolutely spell bound by the sound that was coming out of my TV. The song was Lose Control and Lil G TORE THAT STAGE UP... up until that time it had been a minute since I have seen a guy just rip up the stage. He was treading into Prince territory with those screams. Vocally he was amazing he pretty much regulated the rest of the group to the background. For me it was a legendary performance and I have it on tape... Still one of the best Apollo performances of the 90s.
5. Alexander O'Neal- I dont think Alex has a particularly pretty voice, but he makes it work. I dont fully believe that he knows what to do with his voice but producers certainly do. One listen to Sunshine or the INCREDIBLE If You Were Here Tonight and you just know that dude is destined to be a great one. He was never fully appreciated , even though I believed he had commercial success. I think he like frequent duet partner Cherrelle are pretty much known for their duets together but Alex proved he could stand on his own. For some reason i picked him as the anti-Luther...lol
6. Joe- Again another singer that I dont think is a natural talent but when combined with the right song and production his vocal gifts get put on display in a major way. His debut was a bit underwhelming but his next two releases, All That I Am and My Name is Joe, were certified bangers. All That Am was a great album where Joe really got to flex his vocal muscle and proved he deserved a spot in the R&B landscape at that time. My Name is Joe really pushed him to his greatest commercial success thanks to I Wanna Know and collabos with N'Sync and Mariah Carey. He has released several more albums since then but I still think he is very underrated.
7. Rahsaan Patterson- I actually wish Rahsaan would attempt to do jazz standards.. I think he has an opportunity to shine there. As much as it pains me to say but I do think his sexual orientation is keeping him from the success and recognition he deserves. Vocally there is not much wrong with him IMO.. His last album Wines and Spirits boasted one of his best vocals to date on the song Stars.. simply stunning.
8. Anthony David- truly an underrated soul singer. His album Acey Duecy and many of his previous independent albums are just dripping with raw soul. He has a sincerity in his voice that just shines through.. dont believe me... peep his song Cheatin Man..passion and yearning.
9. Glenn Lewis- He was a fresh artist that sounded like a young Stevie Wonder. I dont know why he didnt catch on, vocally I thought he was outstanding. Take a listen to It's Not Fair..amazing
10. Maxwell- I'll admit i wasnt a big fan of Maxwell initially but overtime he grew into one of my favorite artists. I think the turning point was his MV Unplugged album, where he just stood on stage and gave an absolutely STUNNING version of Whenever, Wherever, Whatever. i was hooked at that moment. Probably the most sensual voice out of my list..
Again this is a list not so much a rank. I implore everyone to give these 10 singers a try...become introduced or rediscover these 10 talented brothers.
1. Stokley (from Mint Condition)- If you have ever seen this band live then you know the ridiculous range this brother has.. he can go from top to bottom and back again. Stokely's tenor is amazing and restrained.. you just wait for him to break it down on Pretty Brown Eyes. He even tackles the impossible Phillip Bailey on a remake of Earth Wind and Fire's After the Love Is Gone.
2. Eric Roberson- This DC native's voice is simply an instrument to behold. I dont find him as "range-y" as some of the other singers on this list but his voice is pretty and he emotes well on his songs.. he can truly tell a story with his awesome gift.
3. Frank McComb- He is ALMOST the second coming of Donny Hathaway. The phrasing and instrumentation is very close to Donny.. I just think he misses the passion of Mr. Hathaway. Frank, like Eric Roberson, had one of the purest vocal tones I've heard in a LONG time. I recommend When You Call My Name to introduce yourself to Frank McComb. His voice simply floats over the music. You will not be disappointed by his voice.
4. Lil G (from Silk)- I never gave him much credit or attention but one Saturday afternoon i was sitting around watching Showtime at the Apollo and I was absolutely spell bound by the sound that was coming out of my TV. The song was Lose Control and Lil G TORE THAT STAGE UP... up until that time it had been a minute since I have seen a guy just rip up the stage. He was treading into Prince territory with those screams. Vocally he was amazing he pretty much regulated the rest of the group to the background. For me it was a legendary performance and I have it on tape... Still one of the best Apollo performances of the 90s.
5. Alexander O'Neal- I dont think Alex has a particularly pretty voice, but he makes it work. I dont fully believe that he knows what to do with his voice but producers certainly do. One listen to Sunshine or the INCREDIBLE If You Were Here Tonight and you just know that dude is destined to be a great one. He was never fully appreciated , even though I believed he had commercial success. I think he like frequent duet partner Cherrelle are pretty much known for their duets together but Alex proved he could stand on his own. For some reason i picked him as the anti-Luther...lol
6. Joe- Again another singer that I dont think is a natural talent but when combined with the right song and production his vocal gifts get put on display in a major way. His debut was a bit underwhelming but his next two releases, All That I Am and My Name is Joe, were certified bangers. All That Am was a great album where Joe really got to flex his vocal muscle and proved he deserved a spot in the R&B landscape at that time. My Name is Joe really pushed him to his greatest commercial success thanks to I Wanna Know and collabos with N'Sync and Mariah Carey. He has released several more albums since then but I still think he is very underrated.
7. Rahsaan Patterson- I actually wish Rahsaan would attempt to do jazz standards.. I think he has an opportunity to shine there. As much as it pains me to say but I do think his sexual orientation is keeping him from the success and recognition he deserves. Vocally there is not much wrong with him IMO.. His last album Wines and Spirits boasted one of his best vocals to date on the song Stars.. simply stunning.
8. Anthony David- truly an underrated soul singer. His album Acey Duecy and many of his previous independent albums are just dripping with raw soul. He has a sincerity in his voice that just shines through.. dont believe me... peep his song Cheatin Man..passion and yearning.
9. Glenn Lewis- He was a fresh artist that sounded like a young Stevie Wonder. I dont know why he didnt catch on, vocally I thought he was outstanding. Take a listen to It's Not Fair..amazing
10. Maxwell- I'll admit i wasnt a big fan of Maxwell initially but overtime he grew into one of my favorite artists. I think the turning point was his MV Unplugged album, where he just stood on stage and gave an absolutely STUNNING version of Whenever, Wherever, Whatever. i was hooked at that moment. Probably the most sensual voice out of my list..
Again this is a list not so much a rank. I implore everyone to give these 10 singers a try...become introduced or rediscover these 10 talented brothers.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Chocolate Legs
In general I'm not a fan of Eric Benet.. all his songs sound the same to me and I find him hit and miss..but I think he scores here...This is a hot video... I am convinced this is Taral Hicks in the video.. my homeboy says its not... but I think I remember that dark sexy body from Belly (minus the grease).. either way this sista is banging and I'm quite surprised Eric Benet used a dark skinned sista considering his track record...but i guess it goes with the song...
This was a great post my Brutha. I have been following EB throughout this whole album and when I heard this was going to be a single I was real excited about it. The video is really mature, and I'm glad his label let him make it so sexual. I'm also shocked that he used this girl in the video but this is the purpose of the song, so I ain't that surprised.
And this isn't Taral Hicks (although she's equally as sexy) I'm not sure what her name is, but she was in a lot of music videos in the 2000 - 2002 era. She was one of my favorite video girls when I used to literally sit in front of BET and watch video's all day. If my memory serves me correctly one video I remember seeing her in was 112 - Dance With Me, I could be wrong but check it out. I cant wait for his next single, and for the purposes of R&B making a comeback I hope it's not "Hunger" lol...
This was a great post my Brutha. I have been following EB throughout this whole album and when I heard this was going to be a single I was real excited about it. The video is really mature, and I'm glad his label let him make it so sexual. I'm also shocked that he used this girl in the video but this is the purpose of the song, so I ain't that surprised.
And this isn't Taral Hicks (although she's equally as sexy) I'm not sure what her name is, but she was in a lot of music videos in the 2000 - 2002 era. She was one of my favorite video girls when I used to literally sit in front of BET and watch video's all day. If my memory serves me correctly one video I remember seeing her in was 112 - Dance With Me, I could be wrong but check it out. I cant wait for his next single, and for the purposes of R&B making a comeback I hope it's not "Hunger" lol...
Monday, May 11, 2009
You Gotsta Have It
Here is a new segment on 3BPJ where we introduce you to essential albums that you SHOULD have in your music collection.
My first (of many) submissions is the STELLAR and groundbreaking album from the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin. AMAZING GRACE
One listen to this album and you will know why she is the Queen of Soul. She went back to her gospel roots and recorded this album. This was straight up old school church.. a choir, a piano, and a wailing voice. The entire album is a standout. One listen to Precious Lord, Take My Hand and you will get slain in the spirit. How I Got Over and You'll Never Walk Alone gives you everything you need. BUT the triumph of the album is Mary Don't You Weep, Aretha showcases her powerful voice and AMAZING interpretation of the gospel standard. So if you don't have this album you need to get it ASAP. This album is one that SHOULD be in you collection.. GO GET IT!!!!!!!!!!!!
My first (of many) submissions is the STELLAR and groundbreaking album from the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin. AMAZING GRACE
One listen to this album and you will know why she is the Queen of Soul. She went back to her gospel roots and recorded this album. This was straight up old school church.. a choir, a piano, and a wailing voice. The entire album is a standout. One listen to Precious Lord, Take My Hand and you will get slain in the spirit. How I Got Over and You'll Never Walk Alone gives you everything you need. BUT the triumph of the album is Mary Don't You Weep, Aretha showcases her powerful voice and AMAZING interpretation of the gospel standard. So if you don't have this album you need to get it ASAP. This album is one that SHOULD be in you collection.. GO GET IT!!!!!!!!!!!!
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Friday, May 8, 2009
Let My People Go!!
So much I want to say right now...but I have to come back later when I recharge to full strength.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Whose Autotune Baby Is This Anyway?
All fingers point to T-Pain but let's not forget Kanye became autotuned in 2008. Do I see a "Billie Jean" collaboration between the two to squash any ties to this autotune baby? The mystery needs to be solved people...LMAO!!
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Artist Spotlight: Janet Jackson
After chatting with one of the Bruthas last night I thought I would make a list of my favorite Janet slow jams. While she is most famous for her uptempo, dance friendly pop records I always thought that Janet excelled at slow jam records. Her voice is thin enough to be sexy and sensual. I am not familiar with anything off the Damita Jo, 20 YO, and Disciple albums as I have no desire to listen to them..lol.. I may come back later to add commentary on each track. This was hard to rank.. but here goes..
1. Funny How Time Flies(from the Control album)
2. Someday is Tonight(from Rhythm Nation 1814)
3. Anytime Anyplace (from Janet)
4. China Love (from All For You)
5. 24 Play (from Design of a Decade)
6. Let's Wait Awhile(from Control)
7. Would You Mind(from All For You)
8. 70's Love Groove (B side)
9. Comeback to Me (from Rhythm Nation 1814)
10 Again (from Janet & Poetic Justice)
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Soundtrack of the Day: New Jack City
I was watching this movie last night and remembered what a great soundtrack accompanied this film. There were break out cuts, like Christopher Williams finally hitting #1 with I'm Dreamin and Color Me Badd ruling the world with I Wanna Sex You Up. For me the crown jewel in this soundtrack was Keith Sweat's There You Go Telling Me No Again. Keith Sweat is a favorite of mine and this is one of his best songs. I was constantly hitting rewind on the cassette player. Another stand-out was Johnny Gill's I'm Still Waiting. I also liked the New Jack style of the Queen Latifah/Troop/Levert Medley. This was one of those soundtrack that defined the sound of the early 90's.
Random Movie Note: During the trial scene, the actress who played Nettie in the Color Purple is sitting behind Ice-T in the courtroom. She was in what looked like traditional African wear..i dont know why but i found that funny as hell and incredibly random...
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Rare Track: Could This Be Love- Janet Jackson
I was scouring the net and thanks to Audio Diva I found this rare Janet track. Actually Audio Diva compiled a lot of rare Janet tracks from Dream Street to Discipline. Some of the tracks I already had but Could This Be Love (sounds like it may be from the Damita Jo period) is awesome. I am a Janet fan but she lost me after the All For You album. I thought Damita Jo was a terrible album.. perhaps had she included Could this Be Love on it, it could have been bearable. I hope you guys enjoy this track. I like the laid back chill sound on this and I like Janets voice on it too.. enjoy
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
One of the Songs that Changed the Game
Many love to laugh at and criticize MiMi. Despite being one of the biggest selling artist(male or female) in music history and basically owning a DECADE many dismiss her as a pop artist (although they can't deny her voice). Like all the great artist there needs to be a lasting impact and in my opinion she left and will leave two major impacts. One she will serve as vocal inspiration for years to come and TWO.. she should be credited for changing the game in 1995, for her song Fantasy. Fantasy was a major hit on all charts but most surprisingly on the R&B/Hip Hop charts. Sure she wasnt the first singer or act to work with rappers..(plenty of artist have.. Vanessa Williams, Jody Watley, Michael Jackson..etc). but the impact of this song changed pop/hip hop/ and R&B forever. A pop princess with a gully rapper like ODB and Puffy on remix duty seemed odd on paper but it worked and paved the way for the marriage of Pop/R&B and Rap. She has duplicated the formula with much success(Honey, Thank God I Found You, Always Be My Baby, I Still Believe..etc). Mariah will never get the props she truly deserves but this Brutha here recognizes the crazy genius and groundbreaking appeal of Ms. Carey
Enjoy the trip.....
Brutha #2 adds-
The year 1995 was a turning point in Hip-Hop as well, where you no longer saw pop friendly rappers like Hammer doing it big on the mainstream charts. You had some of the grittiest rappers up there on the top ten album charts next to Madonna or Celine Dion. Judging by the record sales, the pop audience was listening to a lot more rap than they were given on pop radio, VH-1 and the non urban shows on MTV. Mariah's "Fantasy" with the addition of ODB came at a time where rap was somewhat still looked at like the marijuana joint a parent finds in their wholesome child's backpack...lol. Pop had a pristine often times made up image and sound that the targeted audience (ages 13-21 in 1995) wasn't fully feeling. Mimi had nothing to lose considering she didn't completely fit in with urban music at the time, but her pop audience was strong and into hip-hop. She was the perfect artist to navigate between those two worlds and ultimately change the game.
Enjoy the trip.....
Brutha #2 adds-
The year 1995 was a turning point in Hip-Hop as well, where you no longer saw pop friendly rappers like Hammer doing it big on the mainstream charts. You had some of the grittiest rappers up there on the top ten album charts next to Madonna or Celine Dion. Judging by the record sales, the pop audience was listening to a lot more rap than they were given on pop radio, VH-1 and the non urban shows on MTV. Mariah's "Fantasy" with the addition of ODB came at a time where rap was somewhat still looked at like the marijuana joint a parent finds in their wholesome child's backpack...lol. Pop had a pristine often times made up image and sound that the targeted audience (ages 13-21 in 1995) wasn't fully feeling. Mimi had nothing to lose considering she didn't completely fit in with urban music at the time, but her pop audience was strong and into hip-hop. She was the perfect artist to navigate between those two worlds and ultimately change the game.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
THROWBACK TUESDAYS
Here's another 90's OBG (oldie but a goodie) courtesy of 3bruthas..... Candyman with Knockin' Boooots, what a classic. I have a thing for rap-sung ballad type songs, and this is a prime example of a good one.
Enjoy.................
They dont make em like that anymore do they.
Enjoy.................
They dont make em like that anymore do they.
Did Al B. Sure Really Go "Off On His Own" ?
After reading A Letter to My Father, Al B Sure, it came to my surprise that Al was totally absent in the life of his son Quincy Brown (in the middle) next to his mother (Kim Porter) and surrogate father Diddy. Quincy's feelings towards his father are warranted if all is indeed true, but I sense there's more to the story. Hmmm let's see, Al B Sure's popularity faded around the time Kim gave birth to Quincy, so I assume Al wasn't in high demand to sing "Nite and Day" at venues anymore. So I wouldn't be shocked if Kim Porter's gold digger reputation coupled with bitterness, expanded the wedge between he and his son. There may be blame to go around on both sides. Who knows? Either way, Quincy has a song called " Letter To My Father" which makes his biological dad look like such a loser.
Letter To My Father - iQ
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Are They SERIOUS ?!?!?!?
I chose not to post the full video, if you would like to view it in FULL, do so at your own risk...
It seems like 2009 is going to be the year of girl groups, some good ("Dear Jayne" check em out) some bad (like these girls).
This is "Jane 3". I don't know jack about them nor do I care, but can someone tell me how old they are, because during the verses they look 15, but during the chorus they jumped 10 years ahead and look 25 which is very non-age appropriate by the way
I'm a little upset that I even sat through this atrocity on BET. All I have to say is Music seems like it's getting good again. It seems like were quickly going back to the way music was made in the golden era (the 90's). Lately the public is doing a good job weeding out the good sh!t and the bull sh!t, and this is the latter.
These girls are going to make it as far as I can throw a shot put.
NEEEEEEEEEEEEEEXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It seems like 2009 is going to be the year of girl groups, some good ("Dear Jayne" check em out) some bad (like these girls).
This is "Jane 3". I don't know jack about them nor do I care, but can someone tell me how old they are, because during the verses they look 15, but during the chorus they jumped 10 years ahead and look 25 which is very non-age appropriate by the way
I'm a little upset that I even sat through this atrocity on BET. All I have to say is Music seems like it's getting good again. It seems like were quickly going back to the way music was made in the golden era (the 90's). Lately the public is doing a good job weeding out the good sh!t and the bull sh!t, and this is the latter.
These girls are going to make it as far as I can throw a shot put.
NEEEEEEEEEEEEEEXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And..... They're Back!!!
So I was gonna be a jerk and place this under the "can girl groups make a comeback" section, but that would be kinda rude, funny but rude. Well Incase you haven't already heard, everyone's favorite Independent Women Destiny's Child have decided to give it another go and reunite less than 4 years after calling it quits. BARE IN MIND that this reunion was not by choice no, no, no, no, no.
You see many moons ago when "Girls Time" (the name they went by in the mid-late 90's) originally got signed to Columbia Records, Papa Knowles and the label agreed to a 5 ALBUM deal. 1998 saw their boring debut, 1999 saw "The Writings On The Wall" (still their best album imo and most successful in America), 2001 saw the pop-friendly "Survivor" and 2004 saw the soulful "Destiny Fulfilled". Now as you can see that's only 4 ALBUMS, so due to their 12 year old contract they still have ONE more album to record, and due to the recession Columbia Records wants it out this year, or really early 2010, becuz they know as well as we do that this is one group they'll see some profit from.
Soooo Ms. Kelly gets dropped last week and Beyonce's latest album is not doing to well compared to the previous releases and Michelle's first "r&b" album (which was released in October) has sold roughly 70K in the U.S. to date. So this reunion comes as absolutely no surprise to me. I expected this news to hit us EXACTLY this year around this time. So when everybody was commending Queen Bee for going back to record "Destiny Fulfilled" after selling nearly 10 Million WW with her solo debut album, its not because she wanted too, it was because she had to. Its also funny that this news comes along after Kelly is reported to be on suicide watch....... You know the Knowles clan is full of secrets and scandals. I believe they had this planned the whole time. I bet you their 1st single is already recorded and was written by Solange.
Do YOU think this was planned or coincidental ?
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Did Anybody Know That....
One of my favorite members from a rap group Jadakiss released a new album yesterday (April 7th album IN STORES NOW).
I haven't really been keeping up with current music lately, but still this comes as a shock to me. I remember he had released that mediocre single "By Your Side" w/Ne-Yo a while back, so I shoulda saw this comin. Im gonna download it and even if it's not that great I'm gonna buy it, because I gotta stay consistent with my LOX, Jada, Styles & Sheek catalogue. His newest single "Can't Stop Me" seems alright, kinda like a "Why pt. II", real smart move.
Some of the album's collaborators include Faith Evans, Nas, Ghostface Killah, Pharrell, Barrington Levy, Jazmine Sullivan and the LOX family of course. As much as I think collabo's have gotten way out of hand (and this album signifies that), I must admit he's choosen some good people to collaborate with and I cant help but to forgive him for it, or maybe I should say that after I lsiten, lol.
Brutha 3 will have a mini album review within the next few days.
Can Girl Groups Make A Comeback ? (Vol. 2)... RICHGIRL
And up next on the dock we have another somewhat new girl group that goes by the name of........ RICHGIRL. (from l-r) Audra, Brave, Lyndriette & "Seven". This group was groomed and created by Rich Harrison. The man who's produced Beyonce's hit single "Crazy In Love" and Amerie's "One Thing".
The girls haven't even made a buzz, but their name has. Harrison wants to make it clear to the public, that he didn't name the RICHGIRL, because his name is Richard or because he's trying to make the group seem high maintenance. The name RICHGIRL stands for "a certain attitude and confidence, combined with individuality and talent that any girl might possess, each in their own way." As a friend of mine said "a pretty glamorous was to call them gold diggers". Im just a little frustrated with people calling their groups names that a solo singer should use (ex: Isyss). I just thought that ship had sailed a long time ago. It was really innovative back in the day, but it became so non-creative once the music industry did the exact same thing.
Their single "24's" (which also goes by the title of "24 inches") is a very catchy song which I could see having a decent video and getting their named out there, but had this single been released 3 summers ago, maybe even 2, they would have had a HUGE HIT on their hands. Rich Harrison kept his signature "one thing" sound throughout this song, which i expected, but Im not sure if it was a good idea. I mean yes it's great that he stuck to what he knows can possibly be a hit, but that sound is rather played out now I think. He still does have a chance for people to like it though, and THANK YOU RICH for not allowing these ladies and their beautiful voices to be distracted by yet another vocoder heavy track.
What do YOU think ??? Hit or Miss ???
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
We Never Saw This Coming...
A collaboration between "Wild & Peaceful" Lady T and The 1st Lady of Bad Boy Records ???
Im pretty sure I could speak for all of my Bruthas when I say "We Never Saw This Coming" lol, and I'm not sure I wanted to see this come about. "Can't Last A Day" is the new single off of Teena Marie's new album "Congo Square", which features Faith Evans. The album was originally scheduled to be released today, but for obvious reasons it got pushed back. I mean did any of you know that Ms. Marie was "back". Yeah I hear the crickets too...
I must admit the song is not entirely bad, but the song is much more suited for Faith's vocals. In my honest humble opinion I think I would prefer if Teena just completely gave the song to Faith to record as her 1st single, but either way Im glad we have veterains like Teena to show these young chicks how it's done. Even if it wasn't done properly, but thats just my judgement. Listen for yourselves...
Im pretty sure I could speak for all of my Bruthas when I say "We Never Saw This Coming" lol, and I'm not sure I wanted to see this come about. "Can't Last A Day" is the new single off of Teena Marie's new album "Congo Square", which features Faith Evans. The album was originally scheduled to be released today, but for obvious reasons it got pushed back. I mean did any of you know that Ms. Marie was "back". Yeah I hear the crickets too...
I must admit the song is not entirely bad, but the song is much more suited for Faith's vocals. In my honest humble opinion I think I would prefer if Teena just completely gave the song to Faith to record as her 1st single, but either way Im glad we have veterains like Teena to show these young chicks how it's done. Even if it wasn't done properly, but thats just my judgement. Listen for yourselves...
THROWBACK TUESDAYS...
Enjoy a 90's OBG (Oldie But A Goodie) on this smooth Tuesday afternoon by your truly, Brutha 3.
Where were you and what were you doing when you first heart THIS song....
It would be nice to have another Male R&B Group dominate the charts like these fellaz did again, right now, all we can do is reminisce on the stuff we haaaaad...
Where were you and what were you doing when you first heart THIS song....
It would be nice to have another Male R&B Group dominate the charts like these fellaz did again, right now, all we can do is reminisce on the stuff we haaaaad...
Saturday, March 28, 2009
ROTD: I Will Survive (Bad Boy Remix)
This didnt get that much play and isnt as good as Silk's Old School Mix with Common but I thought Chantay had a nice voice and could have been much bigger. This is one of the rare times where a remake is better or equal to the original. Shout out to Silk Hurley..
Friday, March 27, 2009
As Making The Band Turns
This season of MTB4 is shaping up to be like the Bad Girls Club starring Day 26. Q is becoming the center of this show and he’s clearly a flight risk to this group’s success. Now with Diddy claming to not tolerate “bitchassness” on his label, why does he continue to let so much slide this season? Being the businessman that he is, maybe he just wants to film as much frustration as possible. I won’t be surprised if there are folks in the background planted by Diddy to amplify the anger even more. I mean really, Day 26 wasn’t an interesting group to watch on the prior seasons of Making The Band. They were just a random group of guys, a great voice here, a mediocre one there, not really exciting for reality tv. Danity Kane was the group everyone focused on each week to see what crazy shit the girls would do next. Now that DK is down to only two members, with no possible reunion in sight, they don’t have the same spark on the show. Day 26 are now tagged to keep the show poppin, since we all know DK and Donnie weren’t gonna make it happen…lol.
Day 26 meeting turns into an argument:
*Q’s mother (Mama Nicole) is part of the meeting rocking bamboo earrings like an extra from LL’s “Jinglin’ Baby”
*Will tells Q his focus is off…he’s caught up in dance rehearsals when they have a month to record an album.
*Brian asks Q what’s wrong with him. Q becomes argumentative and says, “Don’t play me like something is wrong with me, I’m living my life and I’m staying” uhhh ok, whatever that means…LOL.
*It ends with Q and Will fighting once again.
Que gets more “emotional”:
*Q cries about how he’s using his time wisely during dance rehearsals and the rest of them are manipulating him. Bitch please…lol.
*Q’s mother tells Will “it’s something deep”…you don’t say…LOL
Brutha 1
If I may add to this....Q's mother was SO NOT NEEDED.. even though she was on the side of the rest of the group she irked the hell out of me. Maybe if she stop putting pressure on him to support her..maybe he'll get over those emotional highs and lows.
Strangers forced to be in a music group on TV is a recipe for disaster.
Why haven't Will chin checked this fool Q already.. he got an ass whipping from regular stangers now Will needs to personally deliver one
Mike... STFU... save those unwarranted tears..i'm not 100% convinced he even knew why he was crying
I already got my ear plugs for next week... Brian is going to hit level 10 on the banshee scale.. I hope my surround sound doesnt blow out...
Day 26 meeting turns into an argument:
*Q’s mother (Mama Nicole) is part of the meeting rocking bamboo earrings like an extra from LL’s “Jinglin’ Baby”
*Will tells Q his focus is off…he’s caught up in dance rehearsals when they have a month to record an album.
*Brian asks Q what’s wrong with him. Q becomes argumentative and says, “Don’t play me like something is wrong with me, I’m living my life and I’m staying” uhhh ok, whatever that means…LOL.
*It ends with Q and Will fighting once again.
Que gets more “emotional”:
*Q cries about how he’s using his time wisely during dance rehearsals and the rest of them are manipulating him. Bitch please…lol.
*Q’s mother tells Will “it’s something deep”…you don’t say…LOL
Brutha 1
If I may add to this....Q's mother was SO NOT NEEDED.. even though she was on the side of the rest of the group she irked the hell out of me. Maybe if she stop putting pressure on him to support her..maybe he'll get over those emotional highs and lows.
Strangers forced to be in a music group on TV is a recipe for disaster.
Why haven't Will chin checked this fool Q already.. he got an ass whipping from regular stangers now Will needs to personally deliver one
Mike... STFU... save those unwarranted tears..i'm not 100% convinced he even knew why he was crying
I already got my ear plugs for next week... Brian is going to hit level 10 on the banshee scale.. I hope my surround sound doesnt blow out...
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
WTF Corner: "Trash in The White House"
You can't help but laugh yet be sad when you listen to some of these talk radio hosts.
According to talk radio host Tammy Bruce (read about her right here ), she believes the Obamas are "trash in the White House". Does she even truly understand what Michelle meant by her comment? Does this trick just want to be controversial? She needs a hug...LMAO!
Listen for yourself:
According to talk radio host Tammy Bruce (read about her right here ), she believes the Obamas are "trash in the White House". Does she even truly understand what Michelle meant by her comment? Does this trick just want to be controversial? She needs a hug...LMAO!
Listen for yourself:
Monday, March 23, 2009
Monica- Once in a Lifetime
I don't know how new this actually is but I'm gonna post it anyways...lol.
This is produced by Bryan Michael Cox who I think is a nice writer but his production is starting to get on my nerves. All of his productions sound exactly the same. I hope this isn't the direction Monica is taking for her new album. If so its going to be received in the same manner as Brandy's Human album. Not that its bad, it just isn't great and in a time when R&B needs to come back to prominence I don't this effort is going to help. Her vocals are almost not needed on this type of track.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
New Artist Watch: Wayna
I was watching Soul Sessions on BET-J and stumbled across Wayna, who strikingly resembles Essence Atkins. When I finally saw her name at the end of the video, I still wanted to know if Dee Dee Throne from Half & Half changed her name to record music...LOL. Well she's not the oldest sister from Smart Guy, she just looks a lot like her. Wayna's "My Love" sounds like it's destined to gain more attention in the future.
BTW, I listened to these lyrics and this would make a good comeback record for Rihanna if she actually left Breezy and was a different type of singer.
Check it out:
BTW, I listened to these lyrics and this would make a good comeback record for Rihanna if she actually left Breezy and was a different type of singer.
Check it out:
Saturday, March 21, 2009
ROTD: Stairway to Heaven
I like the way Pure Soul remixed this to make it appear as a duet. The O'Jays are probably the most underrated groups in the history of R&B. Not sure what happened to this group (despite their loudness).. they were certainly talented.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Did 90's Hip-Hop Soul Have Some Effect on Today's R&B?
***Long Winded alert...LOL***
We always hear Hip Hop connoisseurs speak about how Hip-Hop is on its last leg and what caused it to go into such a tailspin. What we never hear enough of are the significant changes that took place in R&B over the past 20 years. Now, two things inspired me to write this blog: one being this article brutha #1 put me up on a week ago called Did Rap Kill The Male Singer?” and secondly just noticing a pattern shift in R&B after the birth of hip-hop soul. The latter is what I believe had the biggest impact on how artists presented themselves as singers and their production choices from 92 and on. Although we do see attempts to bring a true identity back to the genre, you can’t help but notice a little too much Hip Hop influence. Just look at some of the top selling R&B albums of this decade, more than a handful had Hip-Hop elements sprinkled in somewhere. Many of the artists who tried to keep it strictly R&B seemed to get pushed way in the background, and the ones who received exposure were always the same artists (Jill Scott, India Arie, Alicia Keys, etc.). Maybe a lot has to with Hip-Hop culture being perceived as cooler to young kids who buy most of the music anyway. R&B by itself in a lot of ways became looked at as old folks music. I personally think the root began when hip-hop soul took off in 92.
During the late eighties we experienced an Uptown MCA explosion, which brought the New Jack Swing sound to the forefront and set the stage for hip-hop soul. Here we had acts like Guy, Heavy D, and Father MC merging the two worlds together and making it work. The sound made die-hard hip hop heads get into Aaron Hall and devoted R&B heads rap along to "We Got our Own Thang". The trend continued into the 90’s with 1992 being a standout year where Jodeci and Mary J Blige become the first faces of hip-hop soul. As a child I remember watching Video Music Box (local show)over summer vacation and seeing “Real Love” and “Come and Talk To Me (remix)” being on heavy rotation. What made these two particular songs different than run of the mill R&B was that these were soulful vocals over popular rap beats. "Real Love" used Audio Two’s "Top Billin'" and "Come and Talk To Me" sampled "Impeach The President" by the Honeydrippers, a sample used so much in the history of rap. Both of them were the FIRST singers to use these samples like an emcee and set precedence for years to come. In the next two years we see traces of the new sound on the music of three artists you would never expect, Janet Jackson, Patti Labelle, and Mariah Carey."That's the Way Love Goes" and "The Right Kinda Lover", both use the sample Jodeci first used for their hit. Then there’s Mariah who used "Genius Of Love" , a sample respected in the hip hop circle and collaborated with Ol Dirty Bastard for "Fantasy" …what a shock at the time. Later we see a plethora of fly by night R&B singers who kept the sound going for a few more years.
By 1997 no one used the term “hip hop soul” to describe the music, it was just the new R&B without a title. The only difference was that the sound was repulsive compared to its beginning. Hip Hop samples ran rampant and the focus on good voices began to take a back seat. There were singers (I shouldn’t even call them that) who had three minute hooks(not much of a song) featuring the hottest rapper at the time, a sample, and mediocre vocals. We had too many undeserving hits from people using this formula. As the 2000’s rolled around the samples somewhat declined, but who could forget when Ashanti dropped "Foolish" in 2002. She used what some people like to call the "One More Chance beat" and had one of the biggest tracks of that year. Considering Ashanti lacked in the vocal department, I believe the song's success came from reminding people of hip hop soul’s past, Biggie, and a connection to that era. Come to think of it, this was probably the last song of this decade to use a sample in that manner. The years that followed consisted mostly of hip hop/r&b collaborations, with Beyonce’s “Crazy In Love” and Usher’s “Yeah” being big tunes for both of them in 2003 and 2004. Much of this success goes to groundbreaking collabs like Mary and Grand Pupa on "What's The 411" and Jodeci's “Freekin You remix” with the Raekwon and Ghostface.
Now we have a new image of R&B that no longer consist of a mixed bag of singers all having room to shine. The variety is gone! During the Hip-Hop Soul era, there was still a generous amount of exposure given to acts like En Vogue, Boyz II Men, Brandy, Silk, and Mint Condition. I believe the successful marriage of R&B and Hip-Hop during this era along with the continued dominance of Rap, made it less marketable to be a straight up R&B singer. The most visible ones act like rappers, try to freestyle on shows like 106 & Park, and some even get into it with the law just like rappers…lol. I say all this to say, music needs to have its distinctions. A lot of the R&B identity is gone. It makes no sense there aren’t more Jazmine Sullivan type artists on the radio (they are out there) next to Bobby V and Lil Wayne “Beep Beep Beep” or “Blame it on the Alcohol”. I see little signs here and there showing a potential resurgence of pure R&B music with songs like "Here I Stand" by Usher and even “Since You Been Gone” by Day 26, but there's more work to be done.
We always hear Hip Hop connoisseurs speak about how Hip-Hop is on its last leg and what caused it to go into such a tailspin. What we never hear enough of are the significant changes that took place in R&B over the past 20 years. Now, two things inspired me to write this blog: one being this article brutha #1 put me up on a week ago called Did Rap Kill The Male Singer?” and secondly just noticing a pattern shift in R&B after the birth of hip-hop soul. The latter is what I believe had the biggest impact on how artists presented themselves as singers and their production choices from 92 and on. Although we do see attempts to bring a true identity back to the genre, you can’t help but notice a little too much Hip Hop influence. Just look at some of the top selling R&B albums of this decade, more than a handful had Hip-Hop elements sprinkled in somewhere. Many of the artists who tried to keep it strictly R&B seemed to get pushed way in the background, and the ones who received exposure were always the same artists (Jill Scott, India Arie, Alicia Keys, etc.). Maybe a lot has to with Hip-Hop culture being perceived as cooler to young kids who buy most of the music anyway. R&B by itself in a lot of ways became looked at as old folks music. I personally think the root began when hip-hop soul took off in 92.
During the late eighties we experienced an Uptown MCA explosion, which brought the New Jack Swing sound to the forefront and set the stage for hip-hop soul. Here we had acts like Guy, Heavy D, and Father MC merging the two worlds together and making it work. The sound made die-hard hip hop heads get into Aaron Hall and devoted R&B heads rap along to "We Got our Own Thang". The trend continued into the 90’s with 1992 being a standout year where Jodeci and Mary J Blige become the first faces of hip-hop soul. As a child I remember watching Video Music Box (local show)over summer vacation and seeing “Real Love” and “Come and Talk To Me (remix)” being on heavy rotation. What made these two particular songs different than run of the mill R&B was that these were soulful vocals over popular rap beats. "Real Love" used Audio Two’s "Top Billin'" and "Come and Talk To Me" sampled "Impeach The President" by the Honeydrippers, a sample used so much in the history of rap. Both of them were the FIRST singers to use these samples like an emcee and set precedence for years to come. In the next two years we see traces of the new sound on the music of three artists you would never expect, Janet Jackson, Patti Labelle, and Mariah Carey."That's the Way Love Goes" and "The Right Kinda Lover", both use the sample Jodeci first used for their hit. Then there’s Mariah who used "Genius Of Love" , a sample respected in the hip hop circle and collaborated with Ol Dirty Bastard for "Fantasy" …what a shock at the time. Later we see a plethora of fly by night R&B singers who kept the sound going for a few more years.
By 1997 no one used the term “hip hop soul” to describe the music, it was just the new R&B without a title. The only difference was that the sound was repulsive compared to its beginning. Hip Hop samples ran rampant and the focus on good voices began to take a back seat. There were singers (I shouldn’t even call them that) who had three minute hooks(not much of a song) featuring the hottest rapper at the time, a sample, and mediocre vocals. We had too many undeserving hits from people using this formula. As the 2000’s rolled around the samples somewhat declined, but who could forget when Ashanti dropped "Foolish" in 2002. She used what some people like to call the "One More Chance beat" and had one of the biggest tracks of that year. Considering Ashanti lacked in the vocal department, I believe the song's success came from reminding people of hip hop soul’s past, Biggie, and a connection to that era. Come to think of it, this was probably the last song of this decade to use a sample in that manner. The years that followed consisted mostly of hip hop/r&b collaborations, with Beyonce’s “Crazy In Love” and Usher’s “Yeah” being big tunes for both of them in 2003 and 2004. Much of this success goes to groundbreaking collabs like Mary and Grand Pupa on "What's The 411" and Jodeci's “Freekin You remix” with the Raekwon and Ghostface.
Now we have a new image of R&B that no longer consist of a mixed bag of singers all having room to shine. The variety is gone! During the Hip-Hop Soul era, there was still a generous amount of exposure given to acts like En Vogue, Boyz II Men, Brandy, Silk, and Mint Condition. I believe the successful marriage of R&B and Hip-Hop during this era along with the continued dominance of Rap, made it less marketable to be a straight up R&B singer. The most visible ones act like rappers, try to freestyle on shows like 106 & Park, and some even get into it with the law just like rappers…lol. I say all this to say, music needs to have its distinctions. A lot of the R&B identity is gone. It makes no sense there aren’t more Jazmine Sullivan type artists on the radio (they are out there) next to Bobby V and Lil Wayne “Beep Beep Beep” or “Blame it on the Alcohol”. I see little signs here and there showing a potential resurgence of pure R&B music with songs like "Here I Stand" by Usher and even “Since You Been Gone” by Day 26, but there's more work to be done.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
ROTD: Youre Always On My Mind (Street Mix)
One of my favorite groups from the 90's. Coko Lelee and Taj set the world on fire with their debut album. It's About Time spawned hits over 3 years.. an incredible feat for a debut group. Here is a remix from one of my favorite tracks from that album... enjoy
Pretty good concept album of standards.. if you like Tweet, Bilal, Dwele, and Joy
Here's the track list -
01. MDR Symphony Orchestra - Prelude
02. Joy Denalane, Bilal, Dwele & Tweet - Midnight Train To Georgia
03. Bilal & Dwele - I Thank You
04. Dwele - Take Me To The River
05. Joy Denalane - (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman
06. Bilal - I Got A Woman
07. Tweet - Lovin You
08. Joy Denalane, Bilal, Dwele & Tweet - Midnight Train To Georgia (Reprise)
09. Jemma, Nicole, Sewuese, Ricardo - I'm Coming Out
10. Joy Denalane - A Song For You
11. Joy Denalane & Bilal - You're All I Need To Get By
12. Dwele - Let's Stay Together
13. Joy Denalane & Tweet - It's A Man's Man's World
14. Dwele - Me And Mrs. Jones
15. Tweet - Betcha By Golly Wow
16. Tweet & Dwele - I'll Take You There
17. Joy Denalane, Bilal, Dwele & Tweet - ABC
18. Bilal - Sir Duke
19. Joy Denalane - Everything Is Everything
20. MDR Symphony Orchestra - Prelude Reprise
21. Bilal - Master Blaster
22. MDR Symphony Orchestra - Love's Theme
23. MDR Symphony Orchestra - T.S.O.P.
24. Bilal - Love Train
25. Joy Denalane, Bilal, Dwele & Tweet - Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now
26. Joy Denalane, Bilal, Dwele & Tweet - Midnight Train To Georgia (Finale}
http://rapidshare.com/files/170686289/The_Dresden_Soul_Symphony.rar
Ginuwine- Last Chance
Is R&B making a comeback??
I'm a fan of Ginuwine(save those remakes)and i think his coming back is a good thing.. One thing I like about G is the fact that he can entertain a crowd and he is incredibly earnest on his songs...dude sings hard..lol
I'm a fan of Ginuwine(save those remakes)and i think his coming back is a good thing.. One thing I like about G is the fact that he can entertain a crowd and he is incredibly earnest on his songs...dude sings hard..lol
Brutha #1's Worst Remakes part 1
Yeah I'm back...I really don't mind people remaking songs but they need to come close or surpass the original. The list below reflects my thoughts on some REALLY bad remakes...no real order just a list
1. All Cried Out by Allure & 112. Originally this song was done by Lisa Lisa and the Cult Jam. This song really didn't need a remake. The original is a CLASSIC. Allure and 112 provided a weak vocal in comparison to the original. Plus they missed the essential passion of the original. When Lisa Lisa cried.. "her body never knew such passion, her heart never knew such pain".. you could feel it. I think Allure & 112 failed miserably.
2. Tell Me If You Still Care by Monica. Originally done by SOS Band. This was a terrible remake but I think Monica's youth played against her here. I didn't think she pulled off the yearning of the original. Production wise something seemed off too.
3. Emotions-Destiny's Child originally by the Bee Gees. This is one the worst remakes ever IMO. While I give them props on the harmony.. this was just overly affected. Beyonce's wailing, Kelly trying to out do Beyonce, and Michelle sounding like a startled cat..it was too much
4. Ginuwine gave us a double play of horrible.. he had the audacity to think he could pull of When Doves Cry AND She's Out Of my Life. While the latter was better than the former I think he treaded on sacred ground and lost. Ginuwine covering MJ actually looks good on paper b/c there are some similarity but the execution was terrible. Sorry G.. you lost twice
5. Knockin Da Boots- Pretty Ricky. Quiet as kept I actually like Pretty Ricky but they must have been smoking if they think it was a smart idea to remake H-Town sex jam of 1993.
6. Got To Give It Up- Zhane. This breaks my heart because Zhane is one of my favorite acts. They are usually on point but their tribute to Marvin Gaye fell flat for me. It almost didnt even sound like Zhane. Good news not too many have heard this version. They are too talented to release such material.
7. Our Love- Mary J Blige. Sorry, vocally, Mary is just not Natalie Cole
8. Open Arms- Mariah Carey..... why oh why Mariah. The original by Journey was schmaltzy enough it didnt need the MC ballad treatment.
9. Right and a Wrong Way- Mario......sigh.......say what you will about Keith Sweat and his voice he had a way with songs and made them his own. I dont think Mario did horrible.. but some songs are so identifiable that they shouldnt be remade. This is the case with this song. It should not be remade.
10. Secret Garden- Silk.. After the 1990 original no more versions of this song. There was a female version too with Patti Labelle and Teena Marie that should be destroyed along with Silk's version.
1. All Cried Out by Allure & 112. Originally this song was done by Lisa Lisa and the Cult Jam. This song really didn't need a remake. The original is a CLASSIC. Allure and 112 provided a weak vocal in comparison to the original. Plus they missed the essential passion of the original. When Lisa Lisa cried.. "her body never knew such passion, her heart never knew such pain".. you could feel it. I think Allure & 112 failed miserably.
2. Tell Me If You Still Care by Monica. Originally done by SOS Band. This was a terrible remake but I think Monica's youth played against her here. I didn't think she pulled off the yearning of the original. Production wise something seemed off too.
3. Emotions-Destiny's Child originally by the Bee Gees. This is one the worst remakes ever IMO. While I give them props on the harmony.. this was just overly affected. Beyonce's wailing, Kelly trying to out do Beyonce, and Michelle sounding like a startled cat..it was too much
4. Ginuwine gave us a double play of horrible.. he had the audacity to think he could pull of When Doves Cry AND She's Out Of my Life. While the latter was better than the former I think he treaded on sacred ground and lost. Ginuwine covering MJ actually looks good on paper b/c there are some similarity but the execution was terrible. Sorry G.. you lost twice
5. Knockin Da Boots- Pretty Ricky. Quiet as kept I actually like Pretty Ricky but they must have been smoking if they think it was a smart idea to remake H-Town sex jam of 1993.
6. Got To Give It Up- Zhane. This breaks my heart because Zhane is one of my favorite acts. They are usually on point but their tribute to Marvin Gaye fell flat for me. It almost didnt even sound like Zhane. Good news not too many have heard this version. They are too talented to release such material.
7. Our Love- Mary J Blige. Sorry, vocally, Mary is just not Natalie Cole
8. Open Arms- Mariah Carey..... why oh why Mariah. The original by Journey was schmaltzy enough it didnt need the MC ballad treatment.
9. Right and a Wrong Way- Mario......sigh.......say what you will about Keith Sweat and his voice he had a way with songs and made them his own. I dont think Mario did horrible.. but some songs are so identifiable that they shouldnt be remade. This is the case with this song. It should not be remade.
10. Secret Garden- Silk.. After the 1990 original no more versions of this song. There was a female version too with Patti Labelle and Teena Marie that should be destroyed along with Silk's version.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
20 Questions
To honor what use to be my fav Magazine from 93-00..VIBE.. I'd like to present a 3Bruthas Passing Judgement 20 Questions for 90's music/pop culture.
1. Why was Brownstone so loud?
2. Why was Michael Jackson considered New Jack Swing?
3. Why did Mariah really bring rap/sing collabos to prominence in the 90s and it continues to this day?
4. Why was Veronica Webb ever considered to be a Supermodel?
5. Why did the 90's have so many damn groups?
6. Why did the 90's have so many good group?
7. Why is the 90's the golden age for Hip Hop?
8. Why was rock music so moody in the 90's?
9. Wasn't VIBE the music BIBLE?
10. Why were the Clinton years the BOMB for black people?
11. Why did rap in the 90's go from great to good to hood?
12. Why were soundtracks bigger than the movies they were associated with?
13. Why was Kelly Price the go to background singer for BadBoy?
13. How come we thought Badboy was never gonna stop?
14. Why were teen acts so talented in the 90's
15. Why was FOX the network on Thursdays night?
16. Wasn't reggae hip hop the ish in the club for like 4 years straight?
17. Why was the 90's all about the REMIX?
18. Why were jeeps so popular?
19. Where art thou' Cross Colours and Karl Kani?
20. Why was R&B so damn sexy?
1. Why was Brownstone so loud?
2. Why was Michael Jackson considered New Jack Swing?
3. Why did Mariah really bring rap/sing collabos to prominence in the 90s and it continues to this day?
4. Why was Veronica Webb ever considered to be a Supermodel?
5. Why did the 90's have so many damn groups?
6. Why did the 90's have so many good group?
7. Why is the 90's the golden age for Hip Hop?
8. Why was rock music so moody in the 90's?
9. Wasn't VIBE the music BIBLE?
10. Why were the Clinton years the BOMB for black people?
11. Why did rap in the 90's go from great to good to hood?
12. Why were soundtracks bigger than the movies they were associated with?
13. Why was Kelly Price the go to background singer for BadBoy?
13. How come we thought Badboy was never gonna stop?
14. Why were teen acts so talented in the 90's
15. Why was FOX the network on Thursdays night?
16. Wasn't reggae hip hop the ish in the club for like 4 years straight?
17. Why was the 90's all about the REMIX?
18. Why were jeeps so popular?
19. Where art thou' Cross Colours and Karl Kani?
20. Why was R&B so damn sexy?
Monday, March 16, 2009
Top Ten Rappers of All Time (Brutha #2)
As the 2nd oldest brutha on 3 Bruthas Passing Judgement, I grew up slap dab in the middle of the true school and beginning stage of hip hop’s decline. The rappers on my list seem to all be from the golden era or started out during that time. I tried to consider some of the rappers who stepped on the scene post 1999, but I couldn’t find anyone deserving to be on the list. There are a few rappers (i.e. The Game, T.I.?) who could potentially be one of the greatest after a few more albums, while others are clearly good top ten contenders for a ringtone countdown. Before I beat a dead horse with a rant dealing with the state of today’s hip-hop(maybe another blog for another day), here’s my list to round out our top 10 rappers of all time:
10) Master Ace.
Talk about someone who is underappreciated in the rap world. He goes way back to the Juice Crew days when he killed it on“The Symphony”. I didn’t get into Ace until he released the joint “Born To Roll” from the album Slaughterhouse, then I began to check out some of his other projects and he is amazing. He reminds me of a less lyrical Nas who has a way of making you visualize scenarios on screen when he rhymes…that’s a talent.
9) Chuck D.
Looking back at some of the rap to come out of during the late 80’s, there was a lot of socially conscious hip-hop. Many of those artists were fly by night and had no impact what so ever. It says something about Chuck if he managed get everyone to stop and listen to him worldwide.
8) Lauryn Hill.
Let me first say when I heard her kill it on the “Nappy Heads” remix in ’94...I was obsessed and knew big things were on the way. Putting aside all of the erratic behavior she began to show years later, L was once a force to be reckoned with. Every rhyme that came out of her mouth was flawless.
7) Gangstarr.
As a group they had the best chemistry. I sometimes wonder would Guru even be as successful if he wasn’t initially paired with DJ Premier to create a masterpiece like “Manifest” , “Just To Get a Rep” or “Mass Appeal”. To be honest, Guru is just an ok rapper i.m.o. and it was the Gangstarr synergy that made them an incredible group.
6) Common.
I’ve been following Common before he had to drop Sense from his name for legal reasons. The first time I REALLY paid attention to him was when the song “I Used to Love H.E.R.” dropped. It wasn’t until the album One Day It Will All Make Sense dropped that I went out and bought his album. He’s poetic without going over your head and probably one of the best REAL freestylers.
5) Big Daddy Kane.
Kane is swag’s inspiration. Before T.I. redefined swagger, Kane was the dude every rapper wanted to emulate. His wordplay still remains top notch even after two decades.…Who comes with better lyrics than this:
“Here I am, r-a-w
A terrorist, here to bring trouble to
Phony mcs, I move on and seize
I just conquer and stomp another rapper with ease
Cause Im at my apex and others are below
Nothing but a milliliter, Im a kilo
Second to none, making mcs run
So dont try to step to me, cause I aint the one
I relieve rappers just like tylenol
And they know it, so I dont see why you all
Try to front, perpetrating a stunt
When you know that Ill smoke you up like a blunt”
---Big Daddy Kane Raw
4) Jay- Z.
Jay shined the most from 1995-2001 in my opinion. I respect his ability to expand and take risks by working with artists like Punjabi MC ,Coldplay, and Linkin Park. Plus he’s a master next to Diddy when it comes to marketing himself.
3) Wu-Tang Clan (selected members).
The distinct personalities in the Wu made them stand out for me. Most rap groups before them consisted of members who seemed to all be cut from the same cloth. Wu Tang came along and brought storytelling, complex lyrics, and party hip hop together backed by RZA’s unique sound. So they rightfully deserve to be in the top 3.
2) Tupac.
This was a hard decision. I battled between choosing B.I.G. and Pac for this position. Pac’s writing ability and how he addressed issues of everyday people gave him an edge over BIG. I’ll just end there before I start comparing more…lol. Both Pac and BIG were intriguing people but this one goes to Tupac.
1) Nas.
I still can’t believe Nas was only 19 when he created the Illmatic album. Can you think of anyone today that age or even older creating anything on that level? He is hip hop at its finest. Some of his other gems were Stillmatic, God’s Son, and It was Written.
10) Master Ace.
Talk about someone who is underappreciated in the rap world. He goes way back to the Juice Crew days when he killed it on“The Symphony”. I didn’t get into Ace until he released the joint “Born To Roll” from the album Slaughterhouse, then I began to check out some of his other projects and he is amazing. He reminds me of a less lyrical Nas who has a way of making you visualize scenarios on screen when he rhymes…that’s a talent.
9) Chuck D.
Looking back at some of the rap to come out of during the late 80’s, there was a lot of socially conscious hip-hop. Many of those artists were fly by night and had no impact what so ever. It says something about Chuck if he managed get everyone to stop and listen to him worldwide.
8) Lauryn Hill.
Let me first say when I heard her kill it on the “Nappy Heads” remix in ’94...I was obsessed and knew big things were on the way. Putting aside all of the erratic behavior she began to show years later, L was once a force to be reckoned with. Every rhyme that came out of her mouth was flawless.
7) Gangstarr.
As a group they had the best chemistry. I sometimes wonder would Guru even be as successful if he wasn’t initially paired with DJ Premier to create a masterpiece like “Manifest” , “Just To Get a Rep” or “Mass Appeal”. To be honest, Guru is just an ok rapper i.m.o. and it was the Gangstarr synergy that made them an incredible group.
6) Common.
I’ve been following Common before he had to drop Sense from his name for legal reasons. The first time I REALLY paid attention to him was when the song “I Used to Love H.E.R.” dropped. It wasn’t until the album One Day It Will All Make Sense dropped that I went out and bought his album. He’s poetic without going over your head and probably one of the best REAL freestylers.
5) Big Daddy Kane.
Kane is swag’s inspiration. Before T.I. redefined swagger, Kane was the dude every rapper wanted to emulate. His wordplay still remains top notch even after two decades.…Who comes with better lyrics than this:
“Here I am, r-a-w
A terrorist, here to bring trouble to
Phony mcs, I move on and seize
I just conquer and stomp another rapper with ease
Cause Im at my apex and others are below
Nothing but a milliliter, Im a kilo
Second to none, making mcs run
So dont try to step to me, cause I aint the one
I relieve rappers just like tylenol
And they know it, so I dont see why you all
Try to front, perpetrating a stunt
When you know that Ill smoke you up like a blunt”
---Big Daddy Kane Raw
4) Jay- Z.
Jay shined the most from 1995-2001 in my opinion. I respect his ability to expand and take risks by working with artists like Punjabi MC ,Coldplay, and Linkin Park. Plus he’s a master next to Diddy when it comes to marketing himself.
3) Wu-Tang Clan (selected members).
The distinct personalities in the Wu made them stand out for me. Most rap groups before them consisted of members who seemed to all be cut from the same cloth. Wu Tang came along and brought storytelling, complex lyrics, and party hip hop together backed by RZA’s unique sound. So they rightfully deserve to be in the top 3.
2) Tupac.
This was a hard decision. I battled between choosing B.I.G. and Pac for this position. Pac’s writing ability and how he addressed issues of everyday people gave him an edge over BIG. I’ll just end there before I start comparing more…lol. Both Pac and BIG were intriguing people but this one goes to Tupac.
1) Nas.
I still can’t believe Nas was only 19 when he created the Illmatic album. Can you think of anyone today that age or even older creating anything on that level? He is hip hop at its finest. Some of his other gems were Stillmatic, God’s Son, and It was Written.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Brutha #1's Up and Coming R&B Song of the Week
My pick for "up and coming" this week is a artist I found on YouTube(he has some really nice songs on the Tube). I originally heard the song on Sirius and it had such a great 90's R&B sound and vocally dude is pretty good. I sometimes hate the phrase "grown and sexy" but this is a good joint to chill out to with your girl... hope you enjoy
K-Jon On the Ocean
Enjoy
K-Jon On the Ocean
Enjoy
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