MUSIC

Hidden Treasure: Fly Gypsy

2010-02-24T09:32:00.000-05:00

New Music: Erykah Badu

2010-02-06T05:51:00.005-05:00

Part two of her New Amerykah series, Return of the Ankh, is due out March 30th. The first single, Window Seat is produced by James Poyser and the Queen herself and features ?uestlove of The Roots on drums.

"Can I get a window seat, don't want nobody next to me, I just want a chance to fly, a chance to cry...."

Return of the Ankh Tracklisting:

1. 20 Feet Tall
2. Window Seat
3. Agitation
4. Get Money
5. Don’t Be Long
6. Love
7. Umm Hmm
8. Fall in Love
9. Incense
10. Out My Mind Just in Time (Part 1)
11. Out My Mind Just in Time (Part 2)

Erykah Badu - Window Seat

New Five One

2010-02-06T00:20:00.000-05:00

&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://thefiveone.bandcamp.com/track/remind-me-r-yksopp"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Remind ME (Röyksopp) by The Five One&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;

I love these cats! My new goal for the summer is to see them live, even if I have to take a day trip all the way to DC to do it. They're currently working on their Deuce Day World EP, but in the meantime give us another remix. Enjoy!

The Five One -Remind Me ft. Röyksopp

Driis: Idris Elba's Alter Ego

2010-02-05T23:30:00.001-05:00

Most recognize the face above as the handsome British actor best known for his stint as Stringer Bell on HBO's critically acclaimed The Wire or as Beyonce's faithful husband in Obsessed. What you may not know is that acting [and being fine] aren't his only talents, he's branching out into music. Coming onto the scene first as a DJ, and now as an artist, he's releasing a five track EP entitled High Class Problems on Monday, the 8th.

Best I Can leaked sometime last year, and while he's not the best vocalist, as you can imagine, the song is still poignant in a way you can only accredit to lyrics drawn on personal experiences. From the sound of it, all the tracks have that same potential, so I'm looking forward to hearing it in its entirety.

Track list:
1. Best That I Can (Written by Driis, Produced by Vitamin D)
2. Please Be True (Written by Driis, Produced by Pete Rock & Driis)
3. Private Garden (Written by Driis, Produced by 9th Wonder)
4. Extraordinary Love (Written by Driis & Hanif Jainlett, Produced by Hanif Jainlett for Hevlar Recordings)
5. Absolutely (Written by Driis & The Klassix, Produced by The Klassix)

-S.

New Music: Marsha Ambrosius, Ludacris, Erykah Badu

2010-02-05T21:03:00.001-05:00

We've been waiting for a solo album from the Floacist for a while now, and I think we may actually get it in 2010. With new material leaking, it looks her like her voice is as beautiful as ever and the song writing skills are still intact.

Marsha Ambrosius - Put It On Repeat

Luda's seventh studio album Battle of the Sexes in due out in a month's time now. A Nicki Minaj collaboration (she's making the rounds huh?) just leaked as well as a remix to the club banger How Low, featuring fellow A-town artist Ciara and a little Latin flow fron Pitbull.

Ludacris ft. Nicki Minaj - My Chick Bad

Ludacris ft. Ciara & Pitbull - How Low (Remix)

New Amerykah Pt. II: Return of the Ankh releases March 30th without this track featuring the jail-bound Wayne and Bilal, who's making his way back onto the scene.

Erykah Badu ft. Lil'Wayne & Bilal - Jump In The Air (Stay There)

-S.

Before I Was Born: Top Billin'

2010-02-05T19:58:00.001-05:00

1980s rap duo Audio Two is most known for their single Top Billin' off their debut What More Can I Say?. The lyrics of Brooklyn emcees Mike Dee and Gizmo have given 50 Cent a modern day hit as well as helped their little sister MC Lyte rise to stardom on the track 10% Dis. Check out this classic hip hop song and how's it's been revived time and again.

Milk is chillin, Giz is chillin
What more can I say? Top billin
That's what we get, got it good
Since you understood...

Mary's classic debut What's the 411? produced this hit in 1992 called Real Love.

Off the G-Unit member's 2006 sophomore album Rotten Apple album featuring Keri Hilson, Help.

The gem on 50's lack luster third solo effort Curtis.

-S.

Q&A: Corinne Bailey Rae

2010-02-05T18:57:00.001-05:00

Ms. Rae chats with SoulCulture on the present day artists she reveres, like the undisputed Queen of Soul, Ms. Badu.

-S.

New Music: Corinne Bailey Rae, Mos Def, Travis McCoy

2010-01-28T14:30:00.002-05:00

Bonus track off the phenomenal album The Sea, out now.

Corinne Bailey Rae - It Be's That Way Sometimes

"When you think you've found a love, and you have peace of mind, somebody else steals his heart, but it also be's that way sometimes..."

Here's a track left over from The Ecstatic sessions. I see why it was dumped, but it's Mos so I still love it! Also check out the video for some new song called White Drapes, which will be featured on Director/Photographer/Musician Michael Sterling Eaton’s Mictape Vol. 1, featuring Curren$y, Stalley, The Cool Kids and many more.

Mos Def - The Tournament

"Everyday is like your birthday..."

Apparently the front man of Gym Class Heroes, Travis McCoy, is signed to a solo deal with T-Pain. HUH? This track is featured on T-Pain’s Nappy Boy Allstars Volume 1 Mixtape.

Travis McCoy ft. T-Pain & Young Cash- The Manual

"I went to looking for answers in the hospital and came back with a pocket full..."

-S.

Video: Usher

2010-01-28T14:01:00.004-05:00

Usher's first single, Hey Daddy (Daddy's Home) on Raymond vs. Raymond, out officially March 30th.

-S.

Video: Corinne Bailey Rae

2010-01-28T02:30:00.001-05:00

The Sea released this past Tuesday! Here's Corinne being quickly interviewed before performing Closer on NBC's The Today Show.

-S.

Soldier of Love Previews

2010-01-28T02:20:00.002-05:00

As the date draws closer, more sneak peeks are being released from Soldier of Love out February 8th. Sade's premiered three different songs, in three different locations online, on BET.com, MySpace, and Ellen DeGeneres' blog. I've compiled them all here for you.

All three songs are beautiful! I can't wait to hear the album in full.

In Another Time: Listen to Here or Here

-S.

Video: Kid Cudi, Chester French, Mariah Carey

2010-01-28T01:35:00.002-05:00

Cudderisback with a quick video for the song [freestyle?] he did over Vampire Weekend's Ottoman. A silly clip done while on the road, download the track HERE.

WOW talk about branding, Diddy the marketing guru, gets Chester French and Jadakiss to advertise his liquor, Ciroc, in a song. Off Chester French's Jacques Jams mixtape hosted by Clinton Sparks.

Mariah Carey features Nicki Minaj on the remix to Up Out My Face off her latest, Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel. All you B. Scott love muffins peep him as an extra.

-S.

DOWNLOAD: Mr. February (AKA March Madness)

2010-01-28T01:05:00.003-05:00

Raheem Devaughn's on the promo trail for his new album The Love & War Masterpeace in stores March 2nd. You may have heard or seen the video for the first single, Bulletproof
featuring Ludacris.

"I named the album 'The Love and War Masterpeace' because I feel that where I am as a person and where we are as a people, we are all trying to master that internal peace and happiness in a very strange time."

  Check out the album's track listing below:

1.  Dr. West (Interlude)
  2.  Bulletproof featuring Ludacris  (Produced by Kenny Dope)
  3.  The Greatness featuring Wale (Produced by Kenny Dope)
  4.  I Don't Care (Produced by Stereotypes/Co-Produced by Ne-Yo)
  5.  Black & Blue (Produced by Ronnie "Lil Ronnie" Jackson)
6.  Mr. Right (Produced by Ivan "Orthodox" Barias & Carvin "Ransum" Haggins
  7.  Dr. West (Interlude)
  8.  Fragile featuring Malik Yusef (Produced by Kenny Dope)
  9.  My Wife (Produced by Kenny Dope)
  10. B.O.B. (Produced by Big Bob, Symfoniz & Jerry Juke Vines)
  11. Bedroom (Produced by Kenny Dope)
  12. Microphone (Produced by Ronnie "Lil Ronnie" Jackson)
  13. Garden of Love (Produced by Kenny Dope)
  14. Dr. West (Interlude)
  15. Revelations 2010 featuring Damien Marley  (Produced by Kenny Dope)

Mr. Devaughn is all about giving free music, so to prelude the album he's released a mixtape, Mr. February aka March Madness, filled with covers and remixes which you can download below.

DOWNLOAD Mr. February (AKA March Madness)

-S.

2Cents: TheSeaElementofFreedomBlakrocSexTherapy

2010-01-26T10:50:00.001-05:00

Sonically, this album is not as rose colored as the British crooner's debut. Tragedy in the death of her husband has created, surprisingly, not a dark album, but an electrifying, emotionally charged, melodic, and pleasingly optimistic work that only Corinne's sweet voice, now layered with experience can evoke.

Ms. Keys gives us another round of tracks with her perspective on love and life, and every bout gets better. The title is fitting as every track gives you a feeling of power and a sense of being unstoppable, with Alicia's voice strong and commanding throughout. I'm hoping the Drake assisted Unthinkable will be the third single.

Just over a half hour, Dame Dash's project with rock/blues group Black Keys and various hip hop artists from Ludacris to Raekwon is a chill album to cool out to. Mos Def's contributions are definitely the highlights, and vocal appearances from ex-Rocafella artist Nicole Wray are a nice touch to the all boys club.

Robin Thicke's sexy, but in case we forgot, or somehow missed the memo, he's hitting us with an overtly sexual record which will definitely have long time fans cringing initially. The first half is more light hearted and sexually liberal, inciting help from emcees Jay-Z, Kid Cudi and Nicki Minaj. The latter half with Estelle, The Game and Jazmine Sullivan gets back to the essence of our favorite blue eyed soul man, and will save the record for those who aren't exactly ready to shake it for daddy.

-S.

Get To Know: The Five One Band

2010-01-26T01:52:00.000-05:00

&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://thefiveone.bandcamp.com/album/free-remixes"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;LA Girl (Weezer) by The Five One&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;

Regulars to the blog know I'm a huge fan of The Five One Band out of the DC-Maryland-Virginia area. The band's started uploading YouTube videos to give fans a more in depth look at the people behind the colors [Red, Blue, Green & Gold] and the music.

Preview and download their 5109 Remix album free above [just hit the red DOWNLOAD button in the player], which they cut short in favor of making an EP of all new original Five One music, if you haven't heard any of their material before, or haven't heard all 31 of the unnervingly great remixes they put out last year.

Everything is art is everything...

To call them characters would be an understatement. Get familiar with The Five One:

-S.

Video: Jay Electronica, Mos Def, Theophilus London, Ludacris

2010-01-25T18:22:00.002-05:00

New Orleans own Jay Electronica hits us with a second sneak peak video [check out Dear Moleskine too] of superior visuals and audio, for Exhibit A, letting us know what’s to come for the talented rapper. As great as these clips are, I’m tired of all this peekin’. In the words of Rock City, Put The Fuckin Album Out! Or something, lol.

“The tale of his life is the tale of a writer of incredible vision…a reckless hedonist and dis-effective malcontent…”

Black Dante releases a video for History, his third single from the summer album The Ecstatic featuring longtime collaborator Talib Kweli in this black and white two minute clip.

“Kweli say everybody act according to the season that they born in…”

For his Green label Sound single, Brooklynite Theophilus London releases a video for Hum Drum Town with a guest appearance from Jesse Boykins.

"Racing down this lonely road, silence..."

Ludacris’ videos are always entertaining and How Low is no exception. A track off his ~~collaboration album with the first lady of DTP, Shawnna~~, seventh studio album called Battle of the Sexes with features from his lady peers like Trina, Nicki Minaj, Eve and Lil' Kim. As well s appearances from Ne-Yo, Plies and Flo-Rida.

“How low can you go?”

-S.

DOWNLOAD: Boudoir Synema: The Great Mistapes

2010-01-24T23:23:00.003-05:00

&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://jdavey.bandcamp.com/album/boudoir-synema-the-great-mistapes"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Fight The Daylight by J*DaVeY&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;

Download J*Davey's newest material, a five track EP entitled Boudoir Synema: The Great Mistapes that was released last month on Christmas. It's twenty plus minutes of sheer electric joy that only Brook and Jack know how to serve up.

-S.

Before I Was Born: Between The Sheets

2010-01-24T23:10:00.001-05:00

Cincinatti, Ohio natives, The Isley Brothers, had a hit with the title track of their 1983 album, Between the Sheets. Being sampled many times over, check out some of the various ways in which the Isley's hit has relived past its glory days.

Ooh...baby, baby
I feel your love surrounding me
Whoa...ho...ho...ho...hoo...ooh...baby, baby
Makin’ love between the sheets

Off the late Notorious BIG's 1994 Ready To Die album, Big Poppa.

Jay-Z's Ignorant Shit off American Gangster.

Pop star Gwen Stefani sampled the hit in Luxurious featuring Slim Thug off her 2004 L.A.M.B album.

Jamaican dancehall star Lil' Vicious even had a go at the instrumental in his hit Nika.

-S.

Video: Eric Roberson, Jesse Boykins, Little Dragon

2010-01-24T22:42:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite songs from Music Fan First, Eric Roberson's duet with Lalah Hathaway, Dealing. The concept for the video stays true to the song, my question is, did Eric get what he deserved?

Jesse Boykins' black and white clip for Itis off of The Beauty Created album.

In a kaleidoscope, black and white video for Never Never off their latest effort Machine Dreams, Little Dragon front woman Yukimi gives us interesting perspectives of herself to mull over.

LOOKOUT!: Anticipating Releases of 2010

2010-01-24T20:30:00.000-05:00

Sade [[Soldier of Love]]

After a ten year hiatus the British beauty and lead singer of the self titled band is back to reign the quiet storm airwaves once again. With a worldwide release in nearly two weeks on February 8th, no inch of this globe will be without the sounds of her voice floating through their speakers, wafting onto the streets. Check out the mysterious militaristic video for the title single below.

Drake [[Thank Me Later]]

The Canadian taking the rap game by storm has pushed back his long awaited debut from a Valentine's Day release to sometime in March. The So Far Gone artist already has big names on the project like Jay-Z and The Dream, but with no material leaked as of yet, we're sill in the dark as to the direction and sound.

Usher [[Raymond vs. Raymond]]

When the buzz single Papers released in October, I immediately thought this project was an attempt to reclaim the magic of Confessions, putting his personal life on wax again. The rest of the material that has leaked fromUsher's sixth studio album due out March 2nd like the first single Hey Daddy (Daddy's Home) featuring Plies has me expecting a set of more personal, heart felt songs pitted against the playboy in the 31 year old newly divorced bachelor. Everything I've heard has been pretty flat, but it's Usher so I'll keep my fingers crossed for better material .

Bilal [[Air Tight's Revenge]]

Every Bilal fan I know is still trying to beat symptoms of withdrawal by playing the 1st Born Second album and Love for Sale, the shelved album everyone seems to own, on repeat. Check out this interview done with OkayPlayer recently, where he talks about the upcoming album, his Grammy nod, and his song writing process. Mr. Wonderful says the "main goal is to mix jazz, hip-hop, soul, blues, and experimental free music into one." You can check out a live video of him performing Levels, the first new material from the album in the link as well.

Erykah Badu [[New Amerykah Pt. II: Return of the Ankh]]

The Queen is back March 30th with her fifth studio album. Bilal, Lil' Wayne, the late J. Dilla, and ?uestlove all lend a helping hand on the second installment of the New Amerykah series. Erykah says, "The album is more emotional and flowy and talks about feelings. It reminds of the days of Baduizm, this is just about beats and rhymes in a cipher."

Rap-Up got a first listen of the album, check out their thoughts track by track HERE.

Lupe Fiasco [[L.A.S.E.R.S]]

Two singles deep and still no tentative release date, but I still can't wait for one of my favorite rappers to release his third studio album that asserts Loves Always Shines Everytime Remember 2 Smile(L.A.S.E.R.S). He's been pretty upset at the leaking of Shining Down and I'm Beaming, but truthfully you're nobody if your stuff isn't being leaked.

Nas & Damian Marley [[Distant Relatives]]

This is going to be the best birthday present yet, releasing a day after my birthday, April 20th, one of my favorite rappers and fave reggae artist are collaborating on a record. A humanitarian project of sorts, this record deals with our ties to Africa, hoping to raise more awareness of the state of the continent. Featuring Joss Stone, Stevie Wonder, Snoop Dogg and K'Naan, it one of the most promising and hopeful records to look out for.

MIA [[TBA]]

Summer 2010 can expect some heat from the Sri Lankan hit maker. The new mother posted this video to Twitter for Space Odyssey, undoubtedly new material from the as yet titled follow up to the 2008 Kala.In Rolling Stone she mentions using vocals from Verizon workers, now if that doesn't peek your interest in this new project, I don't know what will.

ALSO BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR:

Bobby Ray [[The Adventures of Bobby Ray]] - May 25
Jill Scott [[The Light Of the Sun: Words & Sounds V.4]] - Summer 2010
Maxwell [[blackSUMMERS'night]] - 2010
Maroon 5 [[TBA]]- 2010
Marsha Ambrosius [[TBA]] - 2010
No Doubt [[TBA]]- 2010

-S.

Video: Kid Cudi, Timbaland, Young Money, Trey Songz

2009-12-08T22:52:00.003-05:00

The third single from Cudi's debut Man on The Moon: The End of Day, and one of my favorite tracks from the album, Pursuit of Happiness. With guest appearances from Drake and Consequence, the bottle popping, champagne spilling video is befitting, with the Cudder twist at the end, of course.

The second video for Timbaland's Shock Value II album, Say Something featuring Drake.

The Real World themed video for the second single, Bed Rock, to the We Are Young Money album.

-S.

New Album News: Corinne Bailey Rae & Sade

2009-12-08T22:25:00.004-05:00

British soul singer Corinne Bailey Rae is due to release her sophomore effort, The Sea, February 1st, 2010. The album deals with, among other things, the untimely death of her husband Jason Rae. Check out the rumored track listing and her performance of the first single, I'd Do It All Again.

Are You Here
I'd Do It All Again
Feels Like The First Time
The Blackest Lily
Closer
Love's On Its Way
I Would Like To Call It Beauty
Paris Nights/New York Mornings
Paper Dolls
Diving For Hearts
The Sea

It's hard to believe my heart's an open door, you got all you came for baby...

The title single to Sade's new album Soldier of Love (due worldwide February 8th) dropped on the group's website this week.

I'm in the front line, of this battle of mine, but I'm still alive...

Download Soldier of Love | ** Alternative Link **

Video: Idle Warship

2009-12-08T05:27:00.004-05:00

Here's the very colorful, eye-catching, potentially headache causing video for Idle Warship's Bedroom Lites off the mixtape Party Robot.

-S.

GIVEAWAY: The Jaspects @ SOBs

2009-12-07T01:55:00.004-05:00

WIN tickets to see The Jaspects at SOBs in NYC, Saturday December 19th, 2009!

One of my first Hidden Treasure posts was on this funky, experimental six piece jazz group from Atlanta. Celebrating the release of their album The Polka Dotted Stripe with help from host, Eric Roberson, and opening acts, Lydia Caesar and Jon Bibbs. Just a heads up, this event is 21+!

Be a lucky winner of a pair of tickets by emailing your name to lvsxmusic@gmail.com. The winner will be chosen at random, and notified by email Wednesday, December 15th.

Not feeling lucky? Purchase tickets to the show for $10 HERE. It will be the best $10 you've spent all year!

Check out some tracks from their album below.

GOOD LUCK!

Jaspects @ SOBs NYC [12.19.09] hosted by Eric Roberson from Jaspects Music on Vimeo.

XXL's Class of '09: The Final

2009-12-07T01:30:00.001-05:00

The XXL Hip Hop Freshmen Class of 2009

As I head into the last weeks of the school semester with studying for finals (aka Fuck I Never Actually Learned Shit) and all, I figured I'd flip the script and give out some grades of my own. XXL raked through the myriad of new rap acts on the blogosphere, rating the top hip hop artists of 2009 and enrolling them in their freshmen class. It's been a year since, so I offer an assessment of these ten pupils.

Top of the Class:

KID CUDI

This kid from Cleveland is undoubtedly the valedictorian of the class, and who'd a thunk it? His debut Man On the Moon: The End of Day peaked at #4 on the Billboard Charts, pushing over 104,000 units. He's already talking about his sophomore effort, tentatively titled Cudder, a collaboration album with whispers of features with Kings of Leon, Robin Thicke, The Clipse, The Killers, Snoop Dogg and more.

Featured on Hov's Blueprint 3, on tour with Lady Gaga, and in the run for THREE Grammy's (Day N Nite - Best Rap Solo Performance & Best Rap Song, Make Her Say - Best Rap Performance By A Duo or Group), life is so G.O.O.D for the Kanye West mentee.

WALE

Capping him as the salutatorian of this class, the DC representative and Interscope Records signee recently released his solid debut, Attention:Deficit, selling around 28,000 copies in the first week, all while touring with Jay-Z, and serving as the house band with UCB for the MTV VMAs this past September. While he has a way to go, he's doing way more than Chillin' by any stretch of the imagination.

Average Joes:

ASHER ROTH

Let's be honest, after the release of Asleep in the Bread Aisle to mixed reviews, and The Great Hangover Tour with Kid Cudi, the buzz on this kid has died. I wish I had more to say, but at this point he's merely just getting by, and that's never good enough. We do, however, have a Greenhouse Effect Vol. 2 mixtape to look forward to, to hopefully regain our interest in the rapper up and comer who can't seem to shake the curse of being Eminem's lesser shadow.

B.O.B

Now going by Bobby Ray, we haven't seen much of this character outside of the mixtape B.o.B Vs. Bobby Ray. The Grand Hustle signee has released a slew of singles, apparently none of which will be on his debut B.o.B. Presents The Adventures of Bobby Ray which is due April 2010. You can expect to hear Nothin' On You featuring Bruno Mars, the first official single of the album.

MICKEY FACTZ

Outside of a track with B.o.B, Mind Got Blown, I don't think think I've heard any new material from the GFC NY poster boy who has been touring, ripping stages with his energetic set. I'm looking forward to hearing some new material that's (fingers crossed) on the way.

CURREN$Y

The most exciting news I've heard about Curren$y is that he's working on a group album with Mos Def and Jay Electronica under the name Center Edge Territory, this overshadows any solo project he's working on in my mind, hands down.

CORY GUNZ

I will say his DJ Drama mixtape Heir to the Throne was enjoyable, but we need to see more form the Bronx native.

BLU

When's the last time you heard new lyrics from this west coast brainchild ? He put out an instrumental LP Open, but aside from that we're left inquiring about his doings.

Class Clown:

CHARLES HAMILTON

SMH. You have to give him an A for effort, putting out more music in the last year than maybe all of his peers combined, dropping mixtape after mixtape, nothing spectacular, but ambition is never frowned upon. However, his antics have gotten in the way of his music, from the punch heard around the world to the J.Dilla executive producer fiasco, this guy was asking to be dropped from Interscope. His shelved debut The Perfect Life has been floating around the net.

Dead Last:

ACE HOOD

For those who have graduated high school, did you ever wonder who came in dead last in the GPA race? That may be harder to put your finger on, but I'll put this plainly. Ace Hood should NEVER have been on the list from jump street. Someone was clearly doing a favor or having their strings pulled. THE END.

Suggestions of The Class of 2010:

(J. Cole, Donnis, Big Sean, XV, Phil Ade, Wiz Khalifa)

-S.

Heavy Rotation: JamieTheophilusRihannaJDaveyKelisAlicia

2009-11-29T01:33:00.008-05:00

I'm really feeling Jamie's new single, Speak French, for his fourth studio album, tentatively titled Body. The certified freak enlists Gucci (brrr) on the Bangladesh produced track, who to my surprise, offers a clever verse to the track.

I don't speak French, but I'll tongue you down...

Download Speak French |** Alternative Link **

Pairing with Mountain Dew's Green Label, Theophilus London releases Humdrum Town featuring fellow Brooklyn-ite Jesse Boykins III.

Now its us in this humdrum town I'm gonna keep my eyes on you...

Download Humdrum Town | ** Alternative Link **

Hole In My Head featuring Justin Timberlake is the bonus track for Rated R.

Sometimes I get crazy and I ain't scared of nobody...Don't look at me funny like you ain't hearing what I said, I got a hole in my head...

Download Hole In My Head | ** Alternative Link **

J* Davey is releasing their new album Boudoir Synema: The Great Mistape on Christmas day (YYAAHH!). Here's the first single, Outta The World.

Thought I knew just where to go, thought I had something to say, what do I know...

Download Outta The Window | ** Alternative Link **

Kelis is making her comeback to the music scene with a dance track I'm now officially obsessed with, Acapella produced by David Guetta.

Before you, my whole life was acapella now a symphony is the only song to sing...

Download Acapella | ** Alternative Link **

Alicia's wispy, yet strong voice definitely takes you into a daydream on this mystical song, Dreaming. While not on any of the official tracklistings for her new album The Element Of Freedom, if it's any indication of the type of music we can look forward to, we're in for quite a treat.

Try to keep my feet on the ground, but the feeling knocks me down...

Download Dreaming | ** Alternative Link **

-S.

Before I Was Born: Tears On My Pillow

2009-11-29T01:20:00.000-05:00

Little Anthony & The Imperials first major hit, Tears On My Pillow released in 1958 reaching to #4 on the BillBoard charts. Covered countless times since, you may have heard a version of this song on the soundtrack to Grease, by Kylie Minogue, New Edition or countless others.

You don't remember me

But I remember you

It was not so long ago, you broke my heart in two

Tears on my pillow, pain in my heart,

Caused by you

Australian singer Kylie Minogue covered this song in 1990 for her second album, Enjoy Yourself. It was #1 on the Billboard charts for a week.

On a CBS film about music in the 50s called Shake, Rattle & Roll, singers Rahsaan Patterson, K-Ci, JoJo, and Jesse Powell do a rendition of The Imperials' hit as the fictitious quartet, The Velvet Four.

-S.

Mixtapes of The Moment: Lupe Fiasco

2009-11-28T09:45:00.004-05:00

Lupe released the mixtape Enemy of the State: A Love Story, as promised on Thanksgiving Day in anticipation for his new album We Are Lasers due in the first quarter of 2010. Friend of The People, another mixtape, will be coming on Christmas Day!

Tracklist:

1. Intro

2. The National Anthem

3. Turnt Up

4. Yoga Flame

5. Lazers (skit)

6. Angels Remix

7. So Ghetto

8. Say Somethin

9. Thank You

10. The One

11. Popular Demand

12. HP Skit

DOWNLOAD EOS:ALS | **ALTERNATIVE LINK**

-S.

The S Factor: Sade & Solange

2009-11-25T13:35:00.002-05:00

Next year is looking like a marvelous year for comebacks, with records from Toni Braxton, Bilal, Amy Winehouse (fingers and toes crossed), and now, most definitely, another British import Ms. Sade Adu. The stunning leading lady of the self-named band Sade will release a new album, Soldier of Love, on February 8, 2010. Ten years overdue, it will be the group’s first studio album since 2000’s Lovers Rock.

The album art is absolutely beautiful, and artistic, exactly what we can expect from her musically as well. The album is up for presale on Amazon.

Solange Knowles is also working on new music to follow up her stellar debut Sol-Angel & the Hadley St. Dreams, which is still heavily on repeat might I add. This song Stillness is the Move leaked last week, which at first listen might be inseperable from Erykah Badu's Bag Lady, which sampled Dr. Dre's Xxplosive. Take a second listen, or however many you need to appreciate the track for her smooth interpretation and story line.

Also, in an interview Wale gave us a little more insight into what she's been working on, including a soulful interpretation of 25 Lighters, a Houston rap classic by DJ DMD featuring KeKe and Fat Pat.

-S.

Diary Of A NERD

2009-11-25T03:26:00.006-05:00

It's eerie how just the other day I was talking with some friends about how MTV's Diary was the best show that network ever produced, and it's a shame how they don't do it anymore. Most memorably, it gave us intimate moments with Aaliyah before her untimely death, which you can watch HERE.

Then voilà, this video makes its way onto the net, previews of a new episode featuring N.E.R.D! I hope they talk about Chad Hugo's noticably disappearnce and the new addition, a female vocalist from Canada, Rhea with whom they're working on their fourth studio album with, tenatively titled Instant Gratification , due in 2010.

-S.

Videos: Janet Jackson, Alicia Keys, Robin Thicke, Toni Braxton

2009-11-25T01:10:00.001-05:00

The year of 2009 is coming to a solid close with new albums from R&B heavyweights Alicia Keys and Robin Thicke, a reminiscent venture with Janet Jackson; and giving us something to look forward to for 2010, Ms. Braxton is breathing life and giving a a new pulse to R&B. Check out videos for each of these projects after the jump.

Janet Jackson's new dance record Make Me, wraps up her two disc compilation album Number Ones to commemorate her 25 year long career. A perfect description as to her heavy influence on the industry, Janet's still managing to keep us on our feet.

Featuring a duet with Beyonce, background vocals from Drake (yes, you read that correctly), and a second part to the NY theme song Empire State of Mind, Alicia Keys fourth studio album The Element of Freedom releases on December 15th, here is the video for the second single Ty Sleeping with A Broken Heart.

Releasing his fourth effort as well, and on the same day as A. Keys (what a ka-winky-dink) Robin Thicke's Sex Therapy will feature two versions, The Experience and The Session. Both, I presume, will be as sex laden, scandalous and fun as the other (just how we like it) as the video for the first single exhibits.

After a four year hiatus, Toni Braxton is back with Pulse, her sixth studio album set to be released in February 2010. The first official single, So Yesterday features Trey Songz.

-S.

Videos: Nola Darling, Keri Hilson, The Clipse, Timbaland

2009-11-24T23:04:00.005-05:00

Here's a new video for Step To Me from spunky hip hop duo Nola Darling consisting of Nikkobya from Queens, NY and Aziza from Los Angeles. Co-starring rapper/DJ MeLo-X and Double 0 (of Kidz In The Hall), from their forthcoming EP A Rude Gal’s Guide To…

Keri Hilson is making international waves with her song I Like, on the soundtrack for a German film. I love the Euro dance feel of the song, a different sound for Keri, but it fits well nonetheless.

The Clipse are back by Popular Demand (Popeyes) at least (Un) Til the Casket Drops December 8th. Produced by The Neptunes, as most of the album is, featuring Pharrell on the chorus and a verse from Cam'ron. The video was shot fittingly, on location at a Popeyes in NY.

Vampires are hella popular nowadays, and Timbaland takes his turn as one in the video for the first single for Shock Value II in stores December 8th, Morning After Dark .

-S.

International Treasure: Taio Cruz

2009-11-10T16:30:00.003-05:00

The gorgeous man looming over these words in none other than Great Britain's own Taio Cruz. This talented musician released his self produced debut Departure in 2008 to rave reviews. The twelve track LP detailed love's trials and tribulations, with his voice bold and beautiful over every instrumental, whether it be the strings on I Can Be or the airy background vocals of She's Like A Star. Mainly a collection of ballads, the album received criticism for not being diversified, however that distinction doesn't and shouldn't take away from the stellar effort put into each track.

His latest album Rokstarr which was released this past October, shows the diversity those critics were looking for in a pop record. Dirty Picture is definitely a departure from his previous work, both in content and sound, but still manages to stay true to who Cruz is as an artist. An eclectic mix of Euro-dance tracks, R&B, soul and pop, his sound appeals to a variety of listeners, allowing him to produce and write for artists like Brittany Spears to Brandy.

He hasn't made his way across the pond officially, but expect to hear more from Taio wether on the mic, or behind it.

Now I feel that this heart, of mine has
taken many falls,
Still sometimes the rain, can turn into a
waterfall,
And the prettiest things, can come out
of the coldest night,
And even with broken wings, sometimes
you find your way to fly

Below are my favorite songs from the Brazilian-Nigerian singer, in no particular order of course. Continue after the jump to watch some of his videos.

-S.

Video: Omarion

2009-11-10T01:10:00.003-05:00

Here's the official music video for Omarion's 1st single, I Get It In, from the album Ollusion due in the 1st quarter of 2010. The visuals aren't spectacular but dancing is pretty dope, check it out for yourself.

-S.

Before I Was Born: Intimate Friends

2009-11-09T00:50:00.002-05:00

Once a former lead singer for The Temptations, Eddie Kendricks decided to break from the group and begin his solo career in 1971. Slowly making a name for himself separate of the legendary quintet, Kendricks produced classics like 1977s Intimate Friends, a song that has been sampled many times over in the last two decades. From Alicia Keys to Snoop Dogg, check out the original and the many ways it has been reinvented after the jump.

Our love shines brigther, than the morning sun
Two hearts together becoming as one
You're a part of me - that never dies
Love undivided, 'cause we see eye to eye
Cause we're....

Alicia Key's Unbreakable from her 2005 Unplugged album.

From his 1992 debut Can I Borrow A Dollar?, Common's A Penny For My Thoughts.

Off his second mixtape Comeback Season, Drake raps about Going In For Life.

Snoop Dogg, Warren G and Nate Dogg make up the hip hop group 213, Another Summer was featured on their 2004 album The Hard Way.

-S.

Bilal's Back!

2009-11-08T08:45:00.001-05:00

I recently posted a link to an article in BillBoard revealing Bilal’s return to the spotlight with a new album in 2010. Here is the first sonic clue as to the direction of the album in a live performance of a new song, Levels. Like the article mentioned and as this video elaborates on, he’s experimenting with an electro-jazz rock feel. I’m definitely digging it. Bilal Sayeed Oliver can do no wrong in my eyes. What do you think?

-S.

Hidden Treasure: Amy Serrata

2009-11-08T08:15:00.002-05:00

Amy Serrata is a singer/songwriter out of California, jazzing up the world with her sultry, melodious voice and inspiring lyrics. Songs like Into The Big Bad World, joyously, make me feel like I can take on anything with a smile on of course. Check out snippets of her album below, which you can hear in its entirety at IMEEM.

She advises in Soul Food to be careful what you feed your soul, but no fear, her self titled album is exactly what your soul needs. Support this rising star by purchasing her stellar debut on her website HERE. You can also learn more about the songstress by reading an interview done by SoulUK.

Continue to check out a vlog of her singing one of her favorite songs River Stay Away from My Door.

Amys album

-S.

Video: The Noisettes

2009-11-08T06:30:00.001-05:00

London based group The Noisettes released the video for their fourth single, Every Now & Then. Be sure to pick up their album Wild Young Hearts in stores now.

-S.

Q&A: Jesse Boykins III, Colin Munroe, Melanie Fiona, NERD & J.Cole

2009-11-07T12:50:00.000-05:00

This is a visually stunning video of an interview with soul singer Jessie Boykins III, where he talks about learning to produce music.

Learn more about Canadian singer/songwriter and LVSXM fave Colin Monroe as he speaks on his journey in music and the genre bending generation we are today.

Melanie Fiona sits down with MADOnly's own Billie Sunshine. Her album The Bridge officially releases this Tuesday, November 10th.

NERD & J. Cole are currently on tour with Jay-Z, at their stop in Canada they took some time to chat with Much Music. Pharrell, Shae and new member,Canadian singer,Rhea discuss the new dynamic of the group. There were two major FAILS during this interview, my favorite was J. Cole's face at 3:44 when the interviewer says he could be the next Drake. CLASSIC.

That's just a lazy comparison, do your research people.

-S.

Video: Phil Ade

2009-11-06T16:07:00.002-05:00

Here is DC rapper Phil Ade's video for Hollywood off the mixtape Starting On JV, my second favorite track, following One of course.

**UPDATED**

Check out a recent interview with Phil to learn more about this upcoming rapper and his mixtape.

-S.

Video: Trey Songz

2009-11-05T01:11:00.003-05:00

WARNING!: LADIES, YOUR PANTIES MAY BE WET AFTER WATCHING THIS VIDEO.

Trey Songz latest single for Ready, Invented Sex is a steamy black and white video that rivals Usher's Trading Places in the sex borderline porno category.

Enjoy!

-S.

Videos: Raheem Devaughn, Chrisette Michele, Jesse Boykins, Lily Allen

2009-11-03T17:10:00.001-05:00

Raheem Devaughn steps away from his usual lyrics of love to speak passionately on some political and social issues, which he illustrates perfectly with a heavy use of graphics and visual imagery.

Chrisette Michele sashays around in her new video for Fragile (Remix) featuring Wale, and not much else. As uninteresting as this video is, I still love her though.

Jessie just has fun in his video for Shine, laughing and jumping rope with kids, the jokster encourages us to "Never let them take your sine away".

Lily Allen is quite the character which she only reinforces in her quirky video for Who'd Have Know off her album It's Not Me, It's You, where she imagines Elton John as object of her affections.

-S.

Hidden Treasure: Marques Toliver

2009-11-03T16:50:00.005-05:00

Adele, one of my favorite female vocalists has been raving about a young man by the man of Marques Toliver. Currently residing in Brooklyn by way of Florida, the 22 year old singer, songwriter, and musician (violin, piano, guitar) has also captured my ears with his emotive sound. The talented singer gives us songs filled with soul, heavily laced with classical undertones and lyrics that spin tales of melancholy, yet beautiful moments.

With no major record label deal he is often seen playing around the city from small stages to the subway, selling physical copies of his material. As we wait for more material from the uninhibited mind of this young musician, playing his YouTube videos featuring covers and original material on repeat will have to suffice. Check out a few after the jump.

An original MT song, Attendre is one of my favorites. Listen to the CD quality version on his MySpace page.

Marques covering, and slaying, Beyonce's Yes.

Track off his CD Butterfly's Are Not Free.

-S.

Mixtapes Of The Moment: DJ Jazzy Jeff, Idle Warship, Mike Posner, Lil' Wayne

2009-11-03T03:45:00.000-05:00

Just in time for the release of the movie This Is It, DJ Jazzy Jeff put out his mixtape in honor of the late, great King of Pop. I know there's been a million and one MJ mixtapes released in the past 5 months, but a little more Michael never hurt anybody. RIP

DOWNLOAD HE'S THE KING, I'M THE DJ |ALTERNATIVE LINK

One of my favorite groups, Idle Warship, comprised of rapper Talib Kweli and singers Res and Graph have finally put out a full length compilation. Comprised by Mick Boogie, the mixtape features both old and new songs from the group. Check out an interview with Talib and Graph at OkayPlayer.

DOWNLOAD PARTY ROBOT |** ALTERNATIVE LINK **

Mike Posner's second mixtape, One Foot Out The Door, was recently released. A nod to the work on his forthcoming studio album, enjoy the free music and vlog below.

Tracklisting:

1. One Foot Out the Door
2. I Don’t Trust Myself
3. Traveling Man (Snippet)
4. You Don’t Have to Leave
5. Cooler Than Me (Gigamesh Remix)
6. Don’t Trust Me (Benny Blanco/DJ Benzi Remix) f. 3OH!3 & KiD CuDi
7. Kiss Me Thru the Phone f. Saigon
8. Red Button
9. Bring Me Down f. Big Sean & Freddie Gibbs
10. Mirror’s Edge (Benzi Remix) f. Bun B, GLC & XV
11. Speed of Sound f. Big Sean
12. Close the Door f. Clinton Sparks

DOWNLOAD ONE FOOT OUT THE DOOR |** ALTERNATIVE LINK**

Weezy will soon be imprisoned on gun charges in February, but before then be prepared to get a plethora of music from the rapper. Check out the official mixtape No Ceilings featuring over twenty tracks and skits.

Tracklisting:

1. Swag Surf
2. Ice Cream
3. D.O.A.
4. Skit feat. Gudda Gudda
5. Wasted
6. Watch My Shoes
7. Break Up feat. Short Dawg & Gudda Gudda
8. Banned From TV
9. Throw It in the Bag
10. That’s All I Have feat. Tyga & Shanell
11. Skit feat. Shanell
12. Wayne on Me
13. I’m Good feat. Lucci Lou
14. Poke Her Face feat. Jae Millz
15. Run This Town
16. I Got No Ceilings
17. Skit End
18. No Ceilings feat. Birdman
19. Oh Let’s Do It
20. Single
21. Sweet Dreams (Beyoncé feat. Nicki Minaj & Lil Wayne)

DOWNLOAD NO CEILINGS |**ALTERNATIVE LINK **

-S.

Videos: 50 Cent, Alicia Keys, Jay-Z, Ne-Yo

2009-11-03T03:05:00.000-05:00

The first single for 50 Cent's fourth album Before I Self Destruct enlists the help of Ms. Kelly Roland. One of his best videos to date, 50 imagines Kelly having not one, but three of his babies in this video, only to be disappointed in the end.

Ms. Keys, a piano and some special effects make up this simple video for the first single for her forthcoming fourth studio album, Freedom, her world disappears around her when the one she loves is gone.

Jay’s primarily black and white video for Empire State of Mind, unlike the lyrics suggest, is uninspiring. The video is a collage of images Jay makes reference to in the song, as Alicia simply plays the piano away in Times Square.

For the soundtrack to The Princess & The Frog, Ne-Yo’s track Never Knew I Needed is accompanied by this video.

-S.

Before I Was Born: I Know You Got Soul

2009-11-03T02:10:00.000-05:00

IT'S BEEN A LONG TIME, I SHOULDN'T HAVE LEFT YOU [WITHOUT A DOPE BLOG TO READ THROUGH]

I apologize for my absence from the blogging world. Life's just been a little hectic, but nevertheless, I'm back!What's a better note to return on than a classic Eric B. & Rakim song, I Know You Got Soul. Off their 1987 Paid in Full record, the song samples a plethora of songs from Bobby Byrd to The Jackson 5. Continue to check out songs like The Cool Kids' Pump Up The Volume, that borrow the words of this classic rhyme.

It's been a long time, I shouldn't have left you
Without a strong rhyme to step to
Think of how many weak shows you slept through
Time's up, I'm sorry I kept you

The Cool Kids' took a line from the song to make the chorus to their song Pump Up The Volume.

UK house group MARRS created a track of the same title shortly after the release of I Know You Got Soul, turning the hip hop song into a trance party mix.

-S.

New Music: The Five One

2009-10-18T17:41:00.003-04:00

&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://thefiveone.bandcamp.com/track/you-were-my-friend-free"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;You Were My Friend (FREE) by The Five One&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;

In conjunction with the release of the new Five One ColorPillar shirt by One Vs Many (COP ONE ASAP!), The Five One has released a new song. You Were My Friend (Be Negative), is a song everyone can relate to. There's always that "friend" that tries to pull you down as you're reaching for the stars or when your star is shining a little brighter than theirs. Well dismiss them with this great song by The Five One, and rid yourself of any negativity.

I was your blood brother, now your blood type is Be Negative...

-S.

Video: Mike Posner

2009-10-17T19:47:00.003-04:00

Here's the second episode in his One Foot Out The Door vlog series, in line with the release of his new mixtape of the same title. Check the first episode HERE if you missed out.

"Mike heads back to his second week at Duke University just in time to share the stage with Wale and his band after rocking a party at Emory the day before. Before he can even unpack, Mike hits the road with 10 of his closest friends from Duke and heads to a massive outdoor party at Virginia Tech, joined by his partner-in-crime, superproducer Benny Blanco. Watch as Mike and Benny rock for hundreds of VTech students before the police shut the party down, and then make a speedy escape that includes an impromptu game of trashketball."

If your in NYC this week check him out at SOB's CMJ showcase along with Big Sean, Brandon Hines, and Theophilus London.

-S.

New Tracks

2009-10-13T16:59:00.006-04:00

Here are some new tracks to simulate your ears:

Ponytail- Mya (ft Nicki Minaj)

Ya girl is a hoe- S Tha Mogul

Surrender- D Brown

So Cold- Chris Brown

Before She Said Hi- Mario ft B.o.B

ENJOY

-O.

Hidden Treasure: Steph Jones

2009-10-13T13:31:00.005-04:00

You may recognize this self proclaimed Mr. Ordinary as that guy that sang the hook on that DTP song, Celebrity Chick. You may even recognize his face from Destiny Child's Jumpin Jumpin video or even Faith Evans' I Love You. Steph Jones, who was once signed to Def Jam/DTP, is out to make a name for himself. The singer/songwriter has been working on his debut album and put out a mixtape, better yet a "lifetape", via Twitter, entitled Gravity, yesterday.

A mix of R&B, soul, and pop tracks, fans of the Mo City Alien will recognize the songs Mr. Ordinary and Shooting Star, previously leaked tracks from the singer. Every song is unique and special, it's a MUST download. With the theme of love running heavily throughout, I have songs like Up Up & Away, Gravity, Get Me Started and Southern Love on repeat. Enjoy, and be on the look out for more from this talented young star.

Tracklisting:

1. Intro
2. Up Up & Away
3. You're So Delicious
4. Look What You've Done
5. Gravity
6. Get Me Started
7. Half Way Complete
8. Mr. Ordinary
9. A Girl Named Holly Wood
10. Southern Love
11. Sunshine
12. Galactic 2
13. Mission Complete
14. Shooting Star

Download Gravity |**Alternative Link **

-S.

Leaks: Wale

2009-10-12T19:31:00.004-04:00

Due to touring with Jay-Z, Wale's debut Attention Deficit has been pushed back twice more to a November 10th release date. While he hasn't shot a video for his supposed second single World Tour with Jazmin Sullivan, some tracks have leaked to keep our ears out for the project. I don't believe any of these songs made the album, but get your Wale fix until more of the official tracks begin to leak.

Bittersweet ft. Colin Munroe

Fly Away

The Noisettes ft. Estelle & Wale - Don't Upset The Rhythm Remix

-S.

Video: Jesse Boykins III

2009-10-12T18:58:00.002-04:00

The hardest working up and coming singer in New York, Jesse Boykins III performed some cuts from his album The Beauty Created at a Brooklyn street festival. First up is Amorous. Watch him perform Tabloids and Pantyhose as well.

Tabloids
"Forget the news, the papers, the tabloids, the classifieds, entertainment, the androids..."

Pantyhose
"It's been a long day for me too, all day locked up in a booth, singing my heart away about you..."

Shout out to MADOnly for the footage.

-S.

Singles: Robin Thicke, Angie Stone, Toni Braxton, Usher, Janelle Monae

2009-10-10T12:30:00.001-04:00

Download | Alternative Link

Robin Thicke wants to give you some Sex Therapy. After the week I just had, I'm definitely buying what he's selling. Surprisingly this slow jam was produced by Polow Da Don, kudos to him for stepping out of the box and doing it well.

Download | Alternative Link

I'm feeling this new uptempo track from Ms. Stone. On I Ain't Hearin' U the singer dismisses gossip from her friends reassuring that "he wouldn't take my heart and break it in two, I'm sure that he will explain and make it plain to me." This is the first single for her upcoming album Unexpected, due in early 2010.

Download | Alternative Link

Trey Songz jumps on the remix to Toni Braxton's single Yesterday. Of her forthcoming album, Pulse, Trey adds a verse alluding to past hits from the singer.

Download | Alternative Link

Usher is definitely trying to reclaim the glory of his Confessions days with this tell-all track. Talking, undoubtedly, about his pending divorce with Tameka he sings, "I'm ready to sign these papers." Do you think he can recapture the magic of his classic 2004 album?

Download | Alternative Link

I'm a huge fan of Janelle Monae, a permanent resident of the left field with her music and style. But I don't think I'm with her on this track Come Alive (The War of Roses), a heavily rock inspired track. Thoughts?

-S.

Video: Joy Jones, Q-Tip, Mr. Hudson

2009-10-10T02:40:00.001-04:00

I've been playing catch up with all the videos that have been released in the past week. First up is the clip Over from soul singer Joy Jones' album Godchild. There's a combination of interesting visuals, with the focus on the lyrics of the song, in this short black and white video.

Q-Tip's whimsical video for Life Is Better featuring Norah Jones is the perfect match for the song.

Mr. Hudson's US debut Straight No Chaser has been pushed back to a December 1st release date. Instant Messenger is the third clip from the LP, and features an eye catching use of hues and dynamic camera angles.

-S.

Your Girlfriend's Favorie Emcee

2009-10-09T15:16:00.005-04:00

LA rapper The Werd just released his 7 track EP, Your Girlfriend's Favorite Emcee. He's admittedly coming a little harder on this effort, with a flow he describes as "provocative", that tracks like Rockin' and F.U.N exemplify.

Be sure to check it out, it's worth giving a listening to!

DOWNLOAD

Tracklist:

1. Your Girlfriend’s Favorite Emcee
2. Werdtendo
3. Rockin’
4. Summer Fruit
5. MC Lovin
6. F.U.N.
7. Malfunction

On Repeat: Werdtendo, Rockin', Malfunction

-S.

International Treasure: The Noisettes

2009-10-09T08:30:00.000-04:00

The Noisettes are a soul rock band from London, but don't let their name fool you, the music they create is the farthest thing from sheer noise. Front woman Shingai Shoniwa's voice is like a dream, floating over the guitar strings of Dan Smith and pulsating beat of the drums of Jamie Morrison.

They're second studio album Wild Young Hearts was released in the United States in late September, which you can find a download for below. The album is a great eclectic mix of pop and soul, with Shoniwa's voice being great nod to that vintage 60s sound that's been the influence for other artists like Raphael Saadiq.

Mick Boogie and Terry Urban recently put together a mixtape of Kanye West 808s beats-Noisettes vocals mash ups called Wild Young Heartbreaks. Check out the first song released Upset Lockdown (Don't Upset The Rhythm X Love Lockdown), and download the mixtape too.

Download Wild Young Heartbreaks | Alternative Link

Tracklisting:

"Sometimes"
"Don't Upset The Rhythm (Go Baby Go)"
"Wild Young Hearts"
"24 Hours"
"Every Now And Then"
"Beat Of My Heart"
"Atticus"
"Never Forget You"
"So Complicated"
"Saturday Night"
"Cheap Kicks"

DOWNLOAD WILD YOUNG HEARTS | ALTERNATIVE LINK

On Repeat: Don't Upset The Rhythm, Wild Young Hearts, 24 Hours, Never Forget You, Every Now & Then, Saturday Night

-S.

The Catch Up

2009-10-09T02:41:00.006-04:00

The Neptunes are giving themselves the Black Eyed Peas treatment and adding a female vocalist, Rhea, to this Billionaire Boys' Club.

NERD Gets All 3-D With A New Female Member [SoulBounce]

Bilal To Release Electro-Jazz Rock Album In 2010 [BillBoard]

Corinne Bailey Rae's On Her Way Back (YES!) [Sexy Never Left]

Wale's Album Pushed Back...Again??!?! [Hip Hop Wired]

Exclusive Anthony Hamilton Interview [Suite903]

-S.

Video: Theophilus London, Raphael Saadiq, The Foreign Exchange

2009-10-08T21:53:00.006-04:00

LVSXM favorites Theophilus London and Jesse Boykins III are back at it again, creating a smooth track entitled Enjoy The Sun, accompanied in this video by the breath taking images of nature. Download the song HERE or THERE.

I love the 60s feel of Saadiq's latest album, The Way I See It. Keeping with the vintage aesthetic as we Take A Walk with him through this black and white clip. The singer will be on tour starting next month, get the tour dates HERE.

The Foreign Exchange puts as much artistry into their videos as they do their music. Another cleaver clip from the duo's album Leave It All Behind, for the track I Wanna Know.

-S.

Before I Was Born: Darling Nikki

2009-10-08T21:45:00.002-04:00

I can admit my obsession with Prince is unhealthy, but say what you will about this flamboyant character, he's still a musical genius and great story teller. Darling Nikki off the classic Purple Rain album is a testament to that. Check out the song after the jump if you're unfamiliar with Nikki the sex fiend. You'll also find a recent interview with Eric Roberson, speaking on the track's influence on him, and a few unexpected covers of the song.

I knew a girl named Nikki

I guess you could say she was a sex friend
I met her in a hotel lobby
Masturbating with a magazine
She said how'd you like 2 waste sometime &
I could not resist when I saw little
Nikki grind

Soul singer Eric Roberson talks about his connection with the song Darling Nikki.

Will Smith does a quick 20 second rendition of the song on Fresh Prince.

The Foo Fighters did a cover of the song, though never officially released in the US.

-S.

Where In The World Is: Tweet

2009-10-05T21:22:00.001-04:00

This Southern Hummingbird flew onto the scene in 2002 with her provocative hit Oops (Oh My) that had everyone wondering what this newcomer was all about. Tweet soon showed us on her debut that she was a sultry songstress seemingly ready to take the R&B world by storm. However, her sophomore effort It's Me Again released three years later was met with less acclaim. Since then, she's been featured on The Dresden Soul Sympathy album reinterpreting soul hits alongside Bilal and Dwele and working on a third album that I'm unsure will ever see a retailer's shelves.

Where In The World Is Tweet?

In preparation for Love, Tweet she's been recording a multitude of tracks with longtime producer-friend Missy Elliott, as well as Timbaland and Novel; she's even released promo pictures to keep us in anticipation. You may have heard Anymore, My Dear featuring T.I., or a slew of other leaked tracks, but with continuous push backs, and now with no tentative release date it doesn't seem to be coming together. I'm rooting for Tweet, and was excited to hear her voice on new material alongside PJ Morton on his track Love You More.

But while we fans wait for her hopefully triumphant return, reminisce with some of her videos below and take a minute to listen to her albums.

-S.

Video: Mike Posner

2009-10-01T08:40:00.003-04:00

Mike Posner's on the advertising trail for his new mixtape, One Foot Out The Door due October 29th. Watch the first in a series of episodes following Mike's life as he tries to balance being a full time student at Duke and his rising star as an entertainer.

That opening track is sick, he needs to release that ASAP.

Don't know who Mike Posner is? Download his first mixtape A Matter of Time to get familiar with his music.

-S.

Where In The World Is: Donell Jones

2009-10-01T00:32:00.007-04:00

The Where I Wanna Be crooner fell off the face of the earth after his third studio album 2002 's Life Goes On. He made a brief, but mostly under appreciated comeback in 2006 with Journey of a Gemini, and has since been harder to track down than that super sleuth cartoon Carmen Sandiego. He reigned the R&B scene those four years spanning 1999-2002, but even before then was giving us music to rival that of his own influences, like his cover of Stevie Wonder's Knocks Me Off My Feet from his debut, My Heart.

With most R&B music lacking the genuine sincerity it once had I can't help but be nostalgic, warranted, if I'm even old enough to be. I miss his voice, his charm, and most importantly ~~that smile and subtle dimple on his left cheek~~ the way he could evoke a multitude of emotions, each hypnotizing in its own way, giving you no choice but to sing along.

Where in the world is Donell Jones?

Apparently, he's on his way to making another comeback with an album expected in the first quarter of 2010. A buzz single entitled Imagine That has hit the web. It's a decent track, and it isn't a stretch of the imagination that this could have been on his last album, but I'm expecting so much more from the singer.

What do you think?

While you marinate on it, take a walk down memory lane and watch some of Donell's videos below. If you own any of his albums, go back and listen to them if you haven't in a while!

Donell Jones - In The Hood (Official Music Video) - The funniest movie is here. Find it

Donell Jones - Knocks Me Off My Feet (Official Music Video) - Click here for more free videos

Donell Jones - Where I Wanna Be (Official Music Video) - Watch the top videos of the week here

Donell Jones : U Know What's Up - Watch today’s top amazing videos here

Donell Jones - Do U Wanna - Free videos are just a click away

-S.

Video: The Roots

2009-09-30T16:30:00.004-04:00

After releasing a teaser clip, here's the full length video from the Philly band's first single to their album of the same title, due October 20th.

This song reminds me of the tragedy that happened out in the streets of Chicago this week. We need to change our mindset, because it's not getting us anywhere. The blood of many of our best and brightest lay on our own hands. Marinate on it.

RIP Derrion Albert

Out on the streets
Where I grew up
First thing they teach us
Not to give a fuck
That type of thinking can’t get you nowhere
Someone has to care

- S.

Video: XV & Consequence

2009-09-30T00:34:00.006-04:00

Kansas rapper X to the V shot the official video for single Fall Out The Sky off his mixtape Everybody's Nobody.

Sexy girls clad in futuristic bathing suits, donning long ponytails rivaling that of B. Scott and fuck me pumps can get whatever they want from Consequence, Kanye, and John Legend in the official music video for the collaboration.

-S.

The Catch Up

2009-09-30T00:30:00.000-04:00

R&B trio Boyz II Men is making a comeback recording covers for their 9th studio album entitled Love, the first single covers Journey's "Open Arms".

Boyz II Men Wants Us To Welcome Them Back With "Open Arms"[SoulBounce]

Q&A: J. Cole [Honeymag.com]

The Queen Project [SoulCulture]

Q&A: The Five One Band [The Stu Reid Experiment]

Album Review: Memoirs of An Imperfect Angel [Adventures of An Audio Diva]

RIP Derrion Albert: Nas' Open Letter To Young Warriors [Gowhere Hip Hop]

-S.

Video: Tawiah

2009-09-29T12:35:00.003-04:00

LVSXM favorite, up and coming UK neo-soul singer Tawiah is back with new material, more than a year after the release of her well received EP, In Jodi's Bedroom. Continue to watch her perform two great songs, Faces and Run. I can't wait to hear the mastered versions of these gems!

-S.

GO DJ, That's My DJ!: DJ AM

2009-09-28T14:30:00.004-04:00

RIP Adam Goldstein (March 30, 1973 – August 28, 2009)

It's been a month to the day Philadelphia native DJ AM passed away in his New York City apartment, allegedly of a drug overdose. In commemoration of him, and as a great intro to a new series I'm presenting on the blog "Go DJ, That's My DJ!" where I'll feature great turntable titans and their projects, continue to learn more about AM and download his mixtape series with Travis Barker of Blink-182, Fix Your Face.

The celebrity DJ had become very successful, building an empire and a brand as he continued to garner much respect for his talent. Adam began deejaying at age twenty, and had since turned Hollywood upside down with his style of fusing various styles of music in a seemingly effortless blend. He had regular gigs at nightclubs like Las Vegas' Pure, was part owner of infamous club LAX, and performed alongside other great entertainers like Jay-Z.

DJ AM and Travis Barker were collaborators and close friends, even enduring a near death experience together in September of 2008, when a plane they boarded crashed after takeoff. They survived the event, but two other passengers and crew members passed away.

You could say his life was spared then or maybe he was lucky, but his untimely death only a year afterward warrants many questions no one with their two feet planted firmly on this earth can answer.

"I HAVE A GREAT DEAL OF FAITH THAT EVERYTHING HAPPENS FOR A REASON. I PUT MYSELF IN GOD'S HANDS"

MTV shot, and after negotiations with the Goldstein family, still plans to air the documentary Gone Too Far at some point in time. Facing drug addiction himself as a young adult, his series followed him as he helped young people in situations similar to his own. Despite the nature of his death, they would hope that the series will deliver the anti-drug message it was intended to.

Download his mixtapes with Travis, a sick collaboration featuring AM's turntable skills and the Blink-182 member's fancy drum work.

RIP DJ AM

Download Fix Your Face | **Alternative Link**

Download Fix Your Face Vol. 2 | **Alternative Link**

-S.

Q&A: Hollywood Holt

2009-09-28T00:53:00.003-04:00

I'm a HUGE fan of Chi-town rapper Hollywood Holt. He chopped it up with Gowhere Hip Hop about his plans for the rest of the year, and his style. He's quite the character, with a live personality and killer energy that undoubtedly illuminates a room.

If you're unfamiliar, click on his name to check out his MySpace, and continue to watch the video for his single Hollywood and download his mixtape Holt Goes To Hollywood.

Download Holt Goes To Hollywood Mixtape

-S.

I <3 Theme Songs: Part Deux

2009-09-28T00:00:00.007-04:00

The Jamie Foxx Show

I'm back with Part Deux of my favorite television theme songs. You'll be surprised by a few of the openers I have after the jump, or maybe you won't. What theme songs draw you in like a moth to a flame, and make you sing incessantly?

You can check out the first I <3 Theme Songs in case you missed it!

Cousin Skeeter

Degrassi

One Tree Hill

Pepper Ann

Sister Sister

What I Like About You

-S.

Before I Was Born: My Cherie Amour

2009-09-27T14:40:00.002-04:00

This is one of my favorite Stevie songs, if not my favorite. Recorded in 1966, but not released until 1969, this song was a Billboard hit, and is now undoubtedly a classic.

My Cherie Amour, pretty little one that I adore
You're the only girl my heart beats for
How I wish that you were mine

Stevie isn't afraid to poke fun of himself, as he does with Eddie Murphy in this hilarious skit from Saturday Night Love.

The Jackson 5 covered My Cherie Amour on their 1969 debut album.

Drake samples Stevie's hit on his first mixtape Room For Improvement on the track Extra Special.

-S.

Video: The Noisettes

2009-09-26T20:26:00.004-04:00

I'm in the midst of writing an International Treasure post on this group out of the UK.Nevertheless, The Noisettes performed Never Forget You on Letterman recently as part of promo for their album, Wild Young Hearts which was released this past Tuesday in the States. Lead singer Shingai's voice is enchanting.

Did anyone peep DC soul songstress Muhsinah singing back up?

-S.

Hidden Treasure: Melanie Fiona

2009-09-26T11:45:00.001-04:00

It's come to attention that many people are still unaware of Guyanese-Canadian singer Melanie Fiona who came onto the scene this summer with the sultry lead single Give It To Me Right. Melanie's varied influences has created a unique sound that dabbles in pop, soul, R&B, and reggae. The release date for her debut, The Bridge, has been pushed back a few times, but it's currently slated for November 3rd.

This summer she released a mixtape with ?uestlove of The Roots of live remixes to her tracks on The Bridge. Listen and download it after the jump, as well as check out the song bird's videos. She recently debuted the video for her second single, It Kills Me on 106 & Park.

-S.

Singles: Joss Stone, Vikter Duplaix

2009-09-26T11:05:00.000-04:00

Free Me is the lead single off Joss Stone's fourth studio album, Colour Me Free. Guest spots on the album include Raphael Saadiq, Nas and Shiela E. (!!!) among others. I'm a huge fan of the British soul singer, so I'm looking forward to this project due October 20th.

Download FREE ME |**Alternative Link**

I came across Vikter Duplaix via Twitter (Follow us: twitter.com/LVSXMusic), and I've fallen in love with his music ever since. He has a new single, which you can download for free off his website entitled Electric Love.

-S.

ATTN males and aspiring artists

2009-09-25T03:06:00.000-04:00

We are still looking for men who would like to voice their opinions on Love & Sex.

This can be about relationships, sex tips, something women do that bother you, something that

men do that bother you...w.e's on your mind.

Although I try to remain unbiased it doesn't always happen so

THIS IS YOUR CHANCE TO REP FOR ALL THE MEN OUT THERE

write up what's on your mind, email it to

LVSXMUSIC@GMAIL.COM

And we'll post it as part of our "HIS view" series

Also for all aspiring musicians,

LVSXMUSIC would like to give you a chance at 15 mins of fame

email us: LVSXMUSIC@GMAIL.COM

with a video or a track(s)

and we'll give you a chance to show what you're made of.

Don't be Shy.

Express yourself

& let your voice be heard

LVSXMUSIC

-O.

Q&A: Murs, Nicki Minaj, Brandon Hines

2009-09-24T22:00:00.003-04:00

When I first started the blog I intended on doing a week dedicated to female MCs. When I quickly realized I'd need more than a week to sift through the many issues facing female rappers in this industry, I decided to dedicate a whole month to it,I'm thinking March, but the issue is looking pressing, I may do it sooner. Murs talks about the state of females in hip hop in the interview above. Does he have a point? [Peeped at SoulBounce]

Speaking of femcees, Ms. Nicki Minaj, Nicki Linwinski, Nicki The Harajuku Barbie, sat down with Honey Magazine to chat about her upcoming project, comparisons to Lil' Kim and dressing the part.

The highly lovable B. Hines talks about moving to New York, working with Trey Songz, and getting on the Rising Icons tour.

-S.

Video: Mr. Hudson

2009-09-24T21:19:00.005-04:00

Mr. Hudson shows us is dark side, figuratively and literally, in the video for his latest single off his US debut Straight No Chaser due October 6th. He tells the object of his affection White Lies to keep her near. O. never lied, Boys Lie, Throw Rocks At Them!

Sometimes good men do bad things
Just as bad men can do good
Tell me which way you like it

-S.

Video: Amerie, Drake, Chrisette Michele, The Roots, The Jaspects

2009-09-23T23:00:00.001-04:00

Amerie's second single from her album In Love & War, releasing November 3rd is Heard Em All.

The Rainbow Coalition released the video for Forever, off the soundtrack to More Than A Game, a biopic based on Lebron James' youth basketball team.

Chrisette Michele released a teaser video for her upcoming video featuring Wale, Fragile. Word is, he full video will be released on November 2nd.

This is the trailer for The Roots upcoming album How I Got Over, scheduled to release ~~October 20th~~ November 17th. The title single was released this summer.

My favorite jazz group The Jaspects, recently performed at Joe's Pub in NYC, where they did a tribute to Michael Jackson.

-S.

Before I Was Born: Please Mr. Postman

2009-09-23T21:40:00.002-04:00

Motown's first successful girl group, The Marvelettes came onto the scene with this #1 record in the 1960s. You may recognize the song in Juelz Santana's Oh Yes or the opener to Sister Act 2, where Whoopi Goldberg sings a snippet of the song. Check out the group performing their hit after the jump, and the song's that have sampled it.

(Stop)
Oh yes, wait a minute Mister Postman
(Wait)
Wait Mister Postman

Please Mister Postman, look and see
(Oh yeah)
If there's a letter in your bag for me
(Please, Please Mister Postman)
Why's it takin' such a long time
(Oh yeah)
For me to hear from that boy of mine

Dipset member Juelz Santana sampled it in 2005 on his second album, What The Game's Been Missing, on the track Oh Yes.

From the recording sessions for The Carter III, Lil' Wayne recorded Mr. Postman.

Whoopi Goldberg's opening scene from the sequel to Sister Act where she sings the Marvelette's hit.

DOTW: Quadron

2009-09-23T20:55:00.002-04:00

This Danish duo has been making their rounds on the blog scene, creating a buzz with the soulful, and may I say delightful sounds of lead singer Coco and producer/musician Robin Hannibal. Stress just washes away as you listen to their self titled debut album Quadron , heavy in elements of jazz and electro-soul. Take an hour out of your undoubtedly tension filled day to unwind and listen to some great music out the sphere of the US scene after the jump.

Tracklisting:

1. Buster Keaton
2. Slippin'
3. Day
4. Jeans
5. Pressure
6. Horse
7. Average Fruit
8. Unpatience
9. Far Cry
10. Tone
11. Simili Life
12. Herfra Hvor Vi Står (From Where We Stand)

Download Quadron |**Alternative Link**

-S.

New Tracks

2009-09-23T19:00:00.001-04:00

Here are some new releases/leaks that might tickle your fancy:

Pusha-Lloyd ft Lil' Wayne

Say you Il: Horse Shoe Gang

You know-Lil' Wayne, Drake, Nicki Minaj, Tyga, Omarion, Gudda Gudda, Jae Millz

Can't, shake,lose- Ne-yo

Never Know- Casely

-O.

Video: Whitney Houston

2009-09-17T16:15:00.002-04:00

A feel good video for a feel good song, Ms. Houston is back ya'll regardless of whether her voice is 100% or not (we know what happened to it), she's still killing most of these little R&B chicks.

If he makes you feel like a million dollar bill, say it!

-S.

Singles: Janet Jackson, Alicia Keys, Amerie, & 50 Cent

2009-09-17T16:00:00.001-04:00

Ms. Jackson is getting back into the groove of things after the tragic loss of her brother Michael. She's back in the studio recording an album due for a 2010 release and reportedly getting ready to shoot scenes for the Tyler Perry movie "Why Did I Get Married Too", a sequel to the 2007 movie of the same title, minus the too of course. She debuted the fun dance jam Make Me after paying tribute to Michael at the VMAs. Check out the performance below. See if you catch her subtle shout out to Michael in the song.

Download Make Me | Alternative Link

Alicia Keys also debuted a new single from her forth coming fourth studio album, after performing at the VMAs, Doesn't Mean Anything. The song's title says it all, nothing would matter if Ms. Keys didn't have ~~Swizz Beatz~~ him, in her world.

She was on the Today show talking about her new single and some of the inappropriate behavior displayed by those who shall remain unnamed at the MTV award show this past week.

Download Doesn't Mean Anything | Alternative Link

Amerie has been prepping for the release of her fourth studio album In Love & War, set to hit stores November 3rd. A sampler was released with this track, Pretty Brown, featuring Trey Songz.

Download Pretty Brown | Alternative Link

50 Cent is one of the few rappers with an ego large enough to sample himself on a record which he does on Baby By Me, flipping a line from I Get Money into a whole song. There are two versions floating around the net, one with an unknown singer and the other with Ne-Yo. I'm guessing the one with Ne-Yo will make the album, Before I Self Destruct set to hit stores November 17th.

Download Baby By Me | Alternative Link

-S.