New Music - Aaron Camper: Welcome to My World vol. 1

I absolutely adore good music.  There is nothing better than listening to something that not only evokes emotion but, something that makes you press rewind with the sole intent of hearing every lyric, every instrument, and every harmony.  Maybe my love for music is one only shared by few but, I like to think that everyone has in them a passion for songs that seem to be hand picked just for you. 

Nonetheless, I stumbled upon Aaron Camper's mixtape entitled Welcome To My World: The Mixtape, vol. I in my search for something new and I was introduced to just what I needed.  Aaron Camper isn't new to music.  He's a Grammy nominated singer/songwriter and, since his introduction in 2004, has worked with everyone from Jill Scott to Stevie Wonder (...yes...STEVIE WONDER).  He received his first RIAA certified gold album in 2008 (at the age of 22) with Marvin Sapp’s Grammy nominated album Thirsty.

Welcome To My World is a wonderful blend of musical artistry.  Down to the background vocals, each piece is arranged and mixed to perfection.  The twelve song tape has only four tracks with artist features (including: Brandy, Kanye West and Swizz Beats) which, I feel, gives Camper the ability to showcase himself apart from the voices of more established performers.  His voice isn't the best I've ever heard, nor is it the most powerful but, its honest.  I can appreciate that fact more than hearing someone belt a high E above middle C.

Take a look and a listen to the business worthy tracks.  To download Welcome To My World, head to http://www.aaroncampermusic.com/ and follow him on Twitter @AARONCamper.

BUSINESS WORTHY:

"No More"

Reminiscent of a Kanye joint (sans 80% of the auto-tune), "No More" touches on unrequited love and gold digging women.  Sounds like something straight off of 808's and Heartbreak.  The guitar solo and drum break at the 2:50 mark add some extra oomph.

"Water Runs Dry"

This is the only remake I've heard of this song which was originally penned by Babyface and performed by Boyz II Men.  The combination of a revamped arrangement and Camper's original bridge bring this classic song into 2011.  Great remake.  If you listen closely you'll hear that the background instrumental accompaniment is straight out of Jay-Z's "Run This Town".  :).  Just an observation.

"Moment of Silence" feat. Eric Roberson and DJ Active

This ballad is one on my latest playlist.  The lyrical content is an open letter of apology from a man to a scorned woman.  Another sample from Hov's "D.O.A. (Death of Auto-tune)" completes the chorus.

"Second Thought" feat. Brandy

Aaron sure does apologize quite a bit. :).  Yet another ballad.  Brandy makes this track balance well.  Ladies will love the message.

Honorable Mention:

"How Does It Feel?"

Fellas will identify with this message whole heartily.   Lyrically, Aaron hits the nail on the head with this one. 

New Music: "Look At Me Now" - Chris Brown feat. Lil Wayne & Busta Rhymes

"I can't see how you can hate from the outside of the club.  You can't even get in."

I chuckled at the first line of the latest leak from Chris Brown.  "Look At Me Now" featuring lyrical fools Lil Wayne and Busta Rhymes is obviously a playground for the elder musicians.  Busta and Wayne both go in...which was expected.  CB tries his hand and the whole rapping/singing thing made popular by Drake.  Granted, he sings better than Drizzy but, he really sounds like he's trying to pull a #LemmeHolDatBeat a la Trey Songz.  

However, I won't hate on the song.  It'll bang in any whip.  The beat is crazy and the addition of Wayne and Busta give the song mixtape credibility. 

Take a listen below and click the link to download.



To download "Look At Me Now" click HERE.

Speechless - Alicia Keys featuring Eve

A. Keys is back to work with a new joint featuring Eve. The track, the second collab from these two (the first was 2007's "Gangsta Lovin"), entitled "Speechless" is an ode to her baby boy, Egypt, hence, the Egyptian inspired photography. ;).

The track is classic A. Keys.  Nothing that she hasn't done before but, it is sweet. :)

Listen to song below or download "Speechless" via Hulkshare by clicking HERE.

Mainstream Releases...The Good, Bad, and the Awesome.

Tank releases his 4th studio LP, Now or Never, on December 14th.  The R&B crooner (responsible for "Maybe I Deserve", "Slowly", "One Man" and the hit "Please Don't Go") shows tremendous artistic ability and of course, sex appeal, in the latest release.  As a Tank fan, I know I'll be purchasing a copy however, I don't see this as his break-out album.  Help from big names Chris Brown ("Foreplay") and Drake ("Celebration") are appealing but, not Top 20 records. 

Bottom line: Awesome disc. On point production. Beautiful lyrics. But, it still isn't what Tank needs compete with the artists he writes for.  However, I truly hope I'm wrong.

For the record, he didn't include A FEW tracks that leaked late last year and early this year.  One such leak entitled, "Lost In You", that he dropped in 2009 would have been an awesome addition.  Tell me if you agree by clicking HERE to listen.

Business Worthy Tracks:

"Sex Music"

"Celebration" feat. Drake 

"Emergency"

"Keep It 100"

"I Can't Make You Love Me" 

Ciara's release of Basic Instinct as a follow-up to the 2009's Fantasy Ride comes on the heels of critic's and artists alike questioning her love for the music that made her a star.  I've listened to a few of the tracks from Basic Instinct and while the usual superstar producers (Tricky Stewart and The Dream) work their usual magic, the end results are exactly what you'd expect.  Nod inducing but, not repeat worthy. 

Ciara has yet to find the hit that propels her into studio sessions with the producers that create anthems for breakfast and with songs like "Girls Get Your Money," an ode to girls, and how they, you know, get money, doesn't do anything to bring her out of the cookie cutter mold she's been stuck in.

"Ride" and "Gimme Dat" are reminiscent of her first album yet, they pack a punch that, I wish, could have been reproduced throughout Basic Instinct.

I truly hope Ciara can hit the nail on the head one of these days.  Never say never.

Business Worthy Tracks:

"Ride"

"Gimme Dat"

"Yea I Know"

I'll have to admit that I did chuckle when Diddy announced this project as "...ushering a new movement" oh...almost two years ago.  February of 2009 to be exact. As of Saturday, I was no longer chuckling.  While it isn't the deepest reflection of musical talent (Diddy's attempts at singing are...interesting) I'd have to go on a limb and say this is Diddy's best production piece in years.  The underlying theme of a conflicted playboy and his relationship woes are brought to life with the addition of Kalenna and ex-Danity Kane member, Dawn Richard.

My only qualm lies in the fact that eleven of the sixteen track LP are with features from other artists.  It makes me wonder how a Dirty Money concert could even occur.  Nonetheless, Diddy capitalizes on the trend of highly danceable hip-hop fused with bass heavy beats.  The melodic voices of Kalenna and Dawn blend well and additional song birds Chris Brown, Usher, and Trey Songz add additional harmonies along with their male points of view.

Diddy made Last Train To Paris a digital story and despite the slew of features and a few questionable lyrical choices, I for one, am on board.

Business Worthy Tracks:

"Looking For Love" (Feat. Usher)

"Hate You Now"

"Your Love" feat. Trey Songz (this one is a bit explicit...you are forewarned)

"Hello, Good Morning" feat. T.I.

"I Know" feat. Chris Brown and Wiz Khalifa

"Loving You No More" feat. Drake

ADDITIONAL RELEASES TODAY:

Michael - Michael Jackson

Kandi Koated - Kandi

Love Letter - R. Kelly

White Blood Cells - The White Stripes

"Hello" J. Rhodes, 80's Baby Short

J. Rhodes and the 80's Baby camp released the video to Rhodes' single "Hello" yesterday and the response has been enthusiastic to say the least.  The Shai track was unexpected and incredibly well sampled.  Take a look at the video for "Hello" below.  

I told you bout this producer/songwriter/rapper/engineer/MR. EVERYTHING a few days ago.  If you don't remember the piece or, if you've yet to read it, check it out HERE.  

Make sure to support the movement on Twitter by following @J_Rhodes and by heading over to YOUTUBE.

*Note: J. Rhodes shows off his dance moves around the 3:00 mark. Hilarious.

*New Freestyle* GhostWridah - "RunAway".

The homie GhostWridah released a new freestyle this week entitled "RunAway" via his WridahBlast email list.  A freestyle from G over the classic Cube "Today Was A Good Day" instrumental is sure to make you listen and appreciate.  Lyrical ability is always evident in GhostWridah's work and freestyles are apparently not exempt. 

"I am far from your average adjective, I'm a pronoun and

I am to my city what Michael was to Motown

...A legend."

After one line...I really shouldn't have to tell you to download this.

Download the freestyle on Usershare by clicking HERE.

Check out www.ghostwridah.com for more.

In My Zone 2

Our favorite doe-eyed dance machine (and my pick to take the crown from Ursher) is back with the follow up to his mixtape, In My Zone (download it HERE if you've yet to hear it).  Breezy teams up again with DJ Drama and substitutes DJ Sense for the likes of DJ Babey Drew for In My Zone 2.

Nineteen tracks make this a nice size download.  Every song isn't on repeat but, the mixtape is a winner and the tracks with Big Sean are definitely buzz-worthy. 

 Cop In My Zone 2 by clicking HERE. 

Business Worthy Tracks:

"Glitter" featuring Big Sean

"What You Doin" featuring Big Sean

"AWOL"

"Last Time Together"

"All Of" featuring Kevin McCall

"Another You"



Beauty and the BEAT.

I like to sing at the top of my lungs and pretend a hairbrush is my microphone so, female artists who provide songs which make this guilty pleasure of mine possible are, most definitely at the top of my "download now" list.  Ms. Jazzy is one such performer.  I've been grooving to Jazzy since she dropped her first LP, Oh Jazzy in 2007 (check it out HERE  if you've yet to hear). 

Her latest full length project Beauty and The Beat can be downloaded for the FREESKI at: www.iamjazzy.com . Now, I've known about this tape since its release in May of this year so, my apologies for bringing it to you so late but, better late than never. Right? ;). 

Ladies will love the undeniable life parallels, fellas will appreciate intricate use of drums and varied beats...it'll bump nice in your whip, and music lovers will absolutely ADORE Jazzy's vocals.  Impeccable backgrounds, harmonies and meticulous attention to detail balance out Jazzy's delicate sound. 

Check her out, become familiar, discover the beauty in her beats.

Business Worthy Tracks:

"A.W.O.L."

"Scary"

"Don't Let This Go"

"Just For The Record"

"Remote Control Me"

"Wayzted" featuring J. Doe.

Make sure to check out Jazzy's SHEmix of the Trey Songz hit, "Can't Be Friends".  Download via limelinx by clicking HERE.

Follow Jazzy on Twitter @OHJAZZY

Talented Beats...Meet Mr. Rhodes.

The Talented Mr. Rhodes

If you aren't familiar with the Dallas music scene, or, if your stuck in the land of party music and screw, I'd like you to take a moment, clear your ears, and listen to a star in the making.  J. Rhodes, born, Justin Rhodes, is a Dallas bred producer, writer, rapper, engineer and creator of 80's Baby Ent.  Rhodes sets himself apart from the mainstream Dallas movement by not only creating for himself but, maximizing his production and vocal talents and implementing them with his artists.  An example of this can be seen in his latest mixtape release, The Talented Mr. Rhodes.  Collaborations with 80's Baby phenoms Ni Taylor ("King and Queen") and Braysonic ("Don't Stop") only provide more proof that this growing company is producing hits like no other in the Metroplex.

The Talented Mr. Rhodes is the third individual release from J. Rhodes this year, with the first being the  Gloria's Son sicktape release in January 2010 and the second, a compilation of J. Rhodes beats entitled,  Vintage Rhodes Productions  released in August 2010.  The fourteen track release of Talented provides listeners with insight into the mind of J. Rhodes, the artist, as opposed to J. Rhodes, the beat beast.  Tracks like "#Team Rhodes", "King and Queen" feat. Ni Taylor, "UBER" feat. Klyrik, "Invincible" feat. D'Andre, and "The Logo" feat. Sharece all combine Rhodes' unique flow with a one-two lyrical punch. 

While, the mixtape is a nice combination of artistic creativity and lyrical insight, I would have liked to see J. Rhodes go at a few more tracks by his lonesome.  Out of fourteen tracks, ten are loaded with features, lucky for us, the additions are complimentary to Rhodes's verses without overshadowing. 

Nonetheless, Rhodes provides good music for your listening pleasure and only creates more hype for the ever growing music scene in Dallas, Texas.  Artists like Rhodes, and members of his camp, are shattering stereo-types built by the mainstream embrace of the Dallas boogie.  Look to see big things from the very talented, Mr. Rhodes.

Business Worthy Tracks:

"King and Queen" featuring Ni Taylor

"UBER" featuring Klyrik

"Closer" featuring Taronica

"Invincible" featuring D'Andre

"Don't Stop" featuring Braysonic

Journey into J. Rhodes world with CRAZY concert footage from his monster show at the HOB in Dallas by clicking HERE.

Download The Talented Mr. Rhodes and get familiar with the 80's Baby Family at: www.jrhodes.bandcamp.com

Brand New...Literally.

Friday Night Lights - J. Cole Mixtape

feat. 

"In The Morning" - J.Cole feat. Drake

Download Friday Night Lights at www.dreamvillain.net

My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy - Kanye West



The full length release has been leaked via the world wide web thus, a lengthy review is uncessary.  Those of you download heads will be quick to find the links.  With a huge number of guest artists, including Rihanna, Fergie, Elton John, Pusha T, John Legend, Nicki Minaj, Rick Ross, Raekwon, and Kid Cudi, Kanye removes the kid gloves and hits us with a sucker punch. 

The reviews are already poaring in and from one ear to another, this may just be Kanye's best work to date...even better than College Dropout? Maybe so. 

If you choose to wait for the slated release, pick up the album in stores and on itunes on November 22nd.

Peace. Love. Music.

XoXo

Chan.Lo.

Press Play - New Music. New Writer. All Yours.

Chan.Lo. Note:

This is a week of firsts and capitalizing on our strengths. Here at SBNP and what will soon become Chan-lo.com, we live, love, and heart music. Those of you who have conveyed your love for new music, whether by Mixtape Monday or Playlist reviews, obviously feel us in this regard, so, I've taken it upon myself to add yet another member to the team.

Elena Paolini (Italian girls are BAD. :p lol) is a young woman who exudes the music vibe like no other. She's an old soul with a new ear. Peep her weekly playlist. She knows what she's talkin bout. ;)

EMP - Press Play

Hello music lovers of the world! Check out my first playlist! I've got a little something for everyone!

1) "Love Faces" - Trey Songz

"Love Faces" is the second single (following "Bottoms Up") off of Songz's upcoming Passion, Pain and Pleasure LP dropping 09/14/2010. Mr. Songz slows it down and gets back to much of his signature style on this record. Find yourself a pretty lady or a handsome man, press play, and have you a good ole time!

2) "What If I Kissed You" - Drake

This track is a nice switch for Drizzy, who seems to be leaning more on his R&B prowess these days. I'm a fan of the new new. You may be as well.

3) "Power (Remix)" Kanye West feat. Jay-Z and Swizz Beatz

There isn't much to say about this one. The title speaks volumes. Download. Now.

4) "Speechless" Ciara

Production by The Dream on this joint rides smooth (no pun intended). Ci Ci brings hot lyrics as well. Spread the love.

5) "Holding You Down (Remix)" Jazmine Sullivan feat. Wale

J. Sullivan AND Wale!?! Enough said. Carrying on...

6) "First Time" Pleasure P

This is Marcus Cooper's first leaked song (seems like you get no play unless you got a leak...) off his For Your Pleasure, Vol. 1 mixtape. It definitely has a distinct summer-time feel, old school...well...not so old school Pretty Ricky vibe.

7) "Breaking Point" Keri Hilson

Produced by Timabaland, this is the first single off of her forthcoming release, No Boys Allowed. Track is dope and poinent. Reminiscent of a female version of "When A Woman's Fed Up" by Kells. Ms. Keri Babbbbbbyyyy definitely delivers.

8) "Go To Sleep" Lupe Fiasco

Track is on point. Hot lyrics. Dope beat. All there. Enjoy.

9) "Air of The Night" Karina Pasian

Karina won me over with the single "First Love", off of her debut disc. I feel a hit with this one. Beautiful. Check this girl out. One to watch.

10) "Blow Up" J. Cole

If you're working/in school and have dreams bigger than four walls can confine, do yourself a favor and make this an anthem. Check out more motivation from Mr. Cole: "It Won't Be Long" and "No Holding Me Back."

11) "Back In Style" Joss Stone

Baby Aretha's vocals are on point, as always. Bringing "in love" back in style. This track will make your insides tingle.

12) "I Ain't In Love" Fabolous

Sold flow. Two thumbs up.

13) "Gone Already" Faith Evans

She's baaaaaccckkkk! I've always been a Faith fan so, it's exciting to hear new material.

14) "Stroke Your Ego" Usher

Ursher baby. Ha. Song is produced by Danja and reported to be a single on the upcoming Versus LP. Definitely a different sound but, give it a couple of listens.

Just In Case You Haven't Heard...Extra Ear Dope:

"See Me Now" Kanye West feat. Beyonce and Charlie Wilson

"Right Above It" Drake feat. Lil Wayne

"Mojo So Dope" Kid Cudi

"Commander" Kelly Rowland

"Hot Toddy" Usher feat. Jay-Z and Ester Dean

Happy Downloading!

Elena P.

Feel free to hit up Ms. E on Twitter @elenamariep

From our ears to yours.

Peace. Love. Music.

XoXo

Chan.Lo.

Mixtape Monday ... Big Talk. Big Walk.

The Future Is Bright - Ghostwridah

In Love With My Future

I was privledged enough to receive one of the first leaks of Ghostwridah's latest mixtape, In Love With My Future, prior to its release at 8pm EST on July 1st. Needless to say, I've been jamming this for almost 2 weeks now...and I've yet to get tired of it. Propelled by the release and subsequent internet smash of "Redbottoms" produced by none other than, DJ Don Cannon, In Love With My Future could very well be the mixtape that takes Ghostwridah from New Miami icon to reppin the 305 at the Grammy's. This is the first tape, since the release of Anticipation by Trey Songz in the Summer of 2009, that I have listened to all the way through, back to back, to back, to back. It's that good.

Ghostwridah already proved he could deliver lyrically and put his heart on the highway with his last mixtape release, 305's and Heartbreaks. The In Love With My Future project only reinforces his way with words on EACH and EVERY song. I hate to toot the man's horn but, BEEP. BEEP. BEEEEEEEEEEEP. Although, the tape gives us more of a glimpse at Wridah's rise to the top and less of his personal struggles, he still paints a vivid picture of the road to his future. In "Look At Me Now" feat. Kirby, he highlights the glaring contrasts between his then and his now. Peep the first verse below:

"I guess this is what it feels like when you doin' big s&*t/Now they call you "sir" when they used to call you "misfit"/

Used to call security when we was in they stores/Now we all over the globe and they want us in they clothes/

Last year I was a n&*%a/Now I'm a Negro/Shawty said I wasn't rich enough to get her out her clothes/

Now the tables done turned and she throw it like Tebow/Problem is you was a dime/Now you just a zero/

You're boyfriend's hero, Homie used to sneak this/Heard he tryin to rap now he beggin for them features/

Cheerin from the bleachers every time that I touchdown/Used to play the ground floor, guess I'm goin up now/

used to do the Red cups now we doin Rose/...was doin ok but, now we doing splendid/my doors went suicide what a way to end it."

Fresh beats + Songs that flow + Features that hold their weight (my favorite may just be Bun B's appearance on the Big Tex, candy paint infused, "Ridin" produced by DJ Ideal) all = a memorable download.

*note: Ghostwridah also worked with DJ Ideal on the Coming From The Bottom mixtape. Peep game.

Needless to say, I'm a fan of this mixtape. With over 6,000 downloads in the first week alone, I'd go on a limb and say quite a few people are feeling the future as well.

Business Worthy Tracks:

"Crazy"

"Red Bottoms" - Peep this ode to the gold-diggers of the universe. Last verse had me rolling.

"Look At Me Now" feat. Kirby

"Still Not Famous" - Reminds me of a combination of B.O.B.'s "Airplanes" and Jay-Z's "Forever Young."

"Ridin" - Paul Wall would be proud. Throw up those H's. If you like this, make sure you play Drake's "November 18th" for a screwed up experiance.

To learn more about the homie Ghostwridah and to download In Love With My Future, head to http://www.ghostwridah.com/ and visit him on Twitter @_GhostWridah_

Big Deal - Asia'h
Deal With It

I stumbled across Asia'h Epperson, on one of my random internet music missions. Not until I did my research did I remember her as a season 7 contestant on American Idol. Her signing to Babyface's label, Soda Pop, piqued my interest, and the affiliation with bomb-diggity DJ, Don Cannon, made me download, however, it was the music on her mixtape entitled, Deal With It, that earned these joints a spot on my playlist.

Deal With It combines remixed versions of "Say Something" (Drake and Timbaland), "Bedrock" (Young Money) and "Sex Therepy" (Robin Thicke) as well as four original tracks.

Make sure you peep this ASAP if you love R&B. If Asia'h's first mixtape is any indication, I'm sure she'll be in heavy rotation sooner rather than later.

Business Worthy Tracks:
"Outta Time" - The witty punchlines in this track have made it a repeat.
"Open You Up"
"Say Something" (Remix) - This is probably one of the best additions to this song I've heard yet. Peep a portion of Asia'h's verse below:

"...you talking real fly out the window of your truck/to everything you catching walkin up out the club/Huh?/Its clear that where I am ain't really where you tryin to be at/It's sad that when I need ya you don't ever have my back/we were the perfect pair and now it seems that we don't match/it ain't the money boy, its how you act."

Download Deal With It by heading to http://www.asiahonline.com/ .

Follow Asia'h on Twitter: @asiahe

Press Play...

Ready. Set. Download.


I wanted to get you all a few reviews this week (i.e. Mary J. Blige's new album and Robin Thicke's new LP, Sex Therepy) but, here's my weekly playlist to tide you over. :) Start your engines...

1) "More Than Love" feat. Fabolous - Amerie
(...interesting. Amerie is coming hard with a new sound. Spotlight artist perhaps...?)


2) "Black Culture" - Beyonce
(Lady B is straight up Pam Grier in this joint. Black Panther party 2010 theme song. LOL. Not sure how I feel about this one yet but, its B so...do what you do.)


3) "Stilettos and A Tee" - Bobby Valentino
(Bobby seems to be reverting back to his "Beep" days with this one. Take a listen.)


4) "Straight To The Dance Floor" feat. Lil Wayne - Jamie Foxx
(...so, Weezy seems to be the one man hit factory. Can you say, "weezy approved" ? Track is hot. Not Jamie's best though. If your thinking it'll be another "Blame It", think again.)


5) "It's Been A Pleasure" - Drake
(Just a beat and this dude. Simple but great. Download it. Cannot wait for the REAL album...can I get an advanced copy though...hint hint...)


6) "Perfectly Different" - Karina Pasian
(Another Troy Taylor prodigy (i.e. Trey Songz), this girl is one to watch out for. Lil A. Keys right here.)


7) "Little Freak" feat. Nikki Manaj - Usher
(This is just one of those you'll have to download and either like or hate on your own. Polo the Don delivers on the beat...its just...is it me or is Usher getting a little vulgar with it? Listen for yourself...)


8) "Tipsy" feat. The Dream - Tayma Loren
(I was pleasantly surprised by this joint. Definitely download. You'll likey.)


9) "Pass That Dutch" - Young Money
(Thought I would hate it. It's got some fire though. Drake does what he does. Check out his verse... "No tats but the ink on my money's still wet...". POW!)


10) "Eletric Sex" - Jazzy
(Yes...I spelled it right. :) I've been down with Jazzy since "In Love" and "Makeup" dropped a few years ago. She's one to watch. Download "Eletric Sex" and her previous records. Production is top-notch.)


-Enjoy the playlist loves. I'll holla at you in 2010. New bangers...new attitude. Get ready. :)


Besos!


Chan.Lo.

New Music: Usher, Justin Timberlake and JoJo

...This week has been CRAZY with new music. I picked a few of my favorites. Make sure you also check out the play list for your week. Download. Love. Be Merry.

NEW MUSIC: URRRSHER BABY
"IN MY BAG" Feat. T.I.

Usher...or Urrsher as I like to say, is coming back with more fire after the release of "Papers", if you haven't heard it...do better. Nonetheless, check out the Scott Storch produced track (Storch is on a roll, huh?). Not sure how much I'm liking it as a single for Mr. Raymond. Usher seems to be taking a different lyrical route with rap/freestyle/sing-talking on the verses. Plus, not really used to hearing him talk mess. See the example below. It's kind of...awkward.

"Can't doubt me//Won't out me//Wouldn't even have a style without me..."

LOL. Nonetheless, T.I. gets it in around the 3:15 mark. Good track for Usher's 6th studio LP, Raymond v. Raymond, set to drop March 1, 2010 ...this could change though...AGAIN.

Honorable Mentions...worth the download:

"Daddy's Home", "Papers (Remix)" feat. 2 Pistols and "Stay Down" (THE BUSINESS)

Sigh...moving on...

(BUSINESS WORTHY)
"Winner" Justin Timberlake feat. Jamie Foxx

There isn't much to say about this joint other than, DOWNLOAD IT NOW. Rob Knox knocked this one out the park. This Justin Timberlake/Jamie Foxx collaboration balances well. The lyrical content leaves more to be desired but, who can resist a feel good anthem? Check it out. :)

...the video should be interesting...I just hope Jamie doesn't try to dance....

Last but, not least...

SPOTLIGHT ARTIST: JOJO

...She's Pretty Much Grown...

The little girl with the big voice that captivated us all back in 2004 with her self-titled debut album (tell me her remake of SWV's "Weak" is not still the jam), and again in 2006 with the LP entitled: The High Road , is back...almost.

After conflict with a sketchy distribution deal and her long-time label, Blackground Records, JoJo is finally moving forward with new material. I have a few of the songs that have been leaked from her upcoming album entitled, All I Want Is Everything and I encourage you to download all of the tracks listed below. With tracks produced by Tank, Bryan-Michael Cox, Jovan Dais, and Chad Hugo, among others, I look forward to this being her breakthrough record...let us hope. Her 3rd LP is set for release in January 2010 but, I haven't heard much promotion for it so, we shall see. I encourage you to download the songs below.

1) "Do What You Gotta Do"
2)"I Hate Love" (BUSINESS)
3) "Forever In My Life" (BUSINESS)
4) "Fly Away" (BUSINESS)

5) Keep Forgetting (To Forget About You)

P.S. Also check out a few Honorable Mentions from JoJo:

"25 to Life";

"You Take Me Around The World"; and

"Wrong Man For The Job"

The Heart of 305

Ghostwridah - A New Kind of Heartbreak

"The most important thing in this business is your grind. If you ain't determined, then honestly, this is the wrong business for you." -Ghostwridah

I like to research and it comes in handy to have a working knowledge of the topics about which you write. Best of all, it helps one to not sound like a idiot with a pen.After deciding to review the latest mixtape release from Ghostwridah entitled: 305's and Heartbreak, I must admit I was slightly apprehensive, given the title of the album, that it would contain no more than an attempt to be a bootleg Kanye, which would probably be a bit of a death wish for any rapper wanting to be taken seriously. Then, I did my research.

Straight out of Dade County, Ghostwridah has been establishing his place in the hierarchy of Miami rap icons. Releasing several successful mixtapes including King of the Streets, The Hood's Choice (volumes 1 and 2) and Coming from Da Bottom, he also penned Miami's response to "New York" by Ja-Rule and killed it like it hit his mama. Therefore, I would have been that idiot with a pen if I had gone with my previous assumption. Good thing I'm not incompetent.

305's combines remixed versions of 7 of the songs released on Kanye West's 808's and Heartbreak. Most noteworthy include:

"Say You Will",
"Welcome to Heartbreak" featuring singer Summer Jae,
"So Clueless" (also known as "Heartless" by K. West), and
"Bad News" featuring Shifta.

Ghostwridah finds a way to combine his own style and unique flow in these records so much so that it forces the listener to anticipate what comes next after the fade of each track. The keen and introspective lyrics are definitely a breath of fresh air in an age where the deepest hip hop hit reflects on having sex with every woman in the world (insert eye roll). Take a look at 16 from "The Entrance - 305's":

"Haters can't stand it//but I love it though//it's just sad raps turned into a puppet show//it's monkey see, monkey got damn do//I'm sick & tired of hearin s&*t that's not damn new//enough about them//let's jump into the heartbreaks//and how I run through more shoes than a car brake//see there I go again jumpin off subject//and there's alot of real s&%t that I aint touched yet//so dine with me, stick around for the meal//hope you enjoy my company//please "Say You Will"..."

Even more, while he uses the original beats, he also incorporates a new sound into each of them. Chip Williams adds incredible guitar riffs to "Say You Will", "Coldest Winter", and "Kill You In My Nightmares!" and Wridah introduces us to another Miami stand-out originally from Kingston, Jamaica, Shifta on "Bad News". When I heard the record, I literally thought this man was the original MTB bredda, Dylan. Haha. I digress...

In addition to the 808 instrumentals, Wridah also includes 5 original tracks produced by Lowkey ("Celebrate Life" and "The Exit - My Future") and Miami Beat Wave ("The Entrance: 305's" and "Could've Had It All"). On "Could've Had It All" we are re-introduced to Ms. Summer Jae who kills the hook on "Welcome To Heartbreak".All in all, 305's and Heartbreak is a new take on a recent classic and only elevates Ghostwridah to recognition that is long overdue. Grind all day homie.

Ghostwridah - 305's and Heartbreak

Must Listen To: "Celebration", "Say You Will", "Bad News"

Do Some Research: Check out other songs from Mr. Wridah - "Don't Hurt Em" feat. Usher, "Lock and Chain" by Emanny and "Born and Raised" feat. Shawty Lo (made for a ride in the whip...this bangs).

Read.ied, Read.i.est, READY

I Received an early invitation to download and review the highly anticipated third release from Trey Songz entitled, Ready ...While this will be my 2nd full-length piece on Mr. Songz, y'all know I couldn't not weigh in on this one. Ha. Check it out. New Music and ish...

READY OR NOT...HE'S HERE

To be ready is to be "duly equipped, completed, adjusted, or arranged, as for an occasion or purpose". To anticipate, highs and lows, good and bad, and accommodate accordingly.

I find it appropriate that the third commercial release from Atlantic Records recording artist Trey Songz is titled as such. The lows of his musical journey have been stunningly apparent, most notably at the beginning of his career. Yet, he has continued to grow. Simple, yet complex, Ready is undoubtedly the most comprehensive work Songz has released to date.

Songz and and long-time producer Troy Taylor are joined by a straight flush of studio giants including: Johnta Austin; Stargate (also known as the dynamic duo: Erik Hermansen and Mikkel S. Eriksen); Bryan Michael-Cox; Sean Garrett (if you don't know him, first let me say, shame on you, 2nd; you'll recognize him from Mario's current hit: "Break Up"); Eric Hudson; and Fisha & Pryce. With these contributions Songz has woven a versatile mix of rock-laced ballads, hip-hop bangers, and borderline bubble gum pop without sacrificing the original R&B sound that has distinguished Trey Songz from others in his genre.

My favorite tracks on the Ready LP include:

#7: "Say Aaah" featuring Fabolous - While this song could easily be seen as the typical bottle-poppin, groupie-love, hip-hop record; there is no doubt that the combination of a catchy hook, danceable beat and slightly original concept (how many people have made songs about literally pouring liquor down a woman's throat?), make it a definite club banger. I wouldn't be surprised if it was the next single.

#9: "Ready To Make Love" - #9 is just a interlude track but, it is absolutely beautiful. Piano, acoustic guitar, string accompaniment and the distinct sound of a marching drum combine with Songz's classic falsetto and impeccable background to produce a ballad straight out of a dream. Wish this was a full-length song. The minute-21 version is on repeat.

#13: "Black Roses" - Incredible rock and roll inspired track with heavy bass drum, crash cymbals, and electric keyboard. Producer out of Michigan (Big 10, let's go!) Bei Maejor deserves major props for this beat. The song definitely includes very introspective lyrics that not only show Songz's vocal ability but, showcases his ability to wear his heart on his sleeve. Good stuff.

#14: "Love Lost" - Another Songbook production written by Songz, Taylor and Edrick Miles. sounds eerily similar to "Human Nature" by Michael Jackson. Another beautiful track that combines well-arranged vocals and an unusual beat. Songz really reaches into the tops of his range around the 3:00 mark.

Honorable Mentions:

#6: "Does He Do It" - Written and produced by Sean Garrett and Eric Hudson. Notice Garrett's signature "ayyy!" in the background. LOL. Songz's tenor makes the song more than a filler record.

#12: "Successful" featuring Drake - While this is only an amended version (minus Weezy), I am feelin the re-mastered version and the new verse from Songz. I especially noted the content of the lyrics. See one part of the verse:

"...If I'm the only one and don't nobody else believe it//Then keep it a secret and watch me achieve it//Cuz I know what I want..."

The man can write and I'm glad he spoke on the haters. Sandra Rose should swallow that with her mean self.

#11 and #16: "Be Where You Are" and "Holla If You Need Me" - These tracks remind me more of Trey's original sound and will be instant hits with his core fan base.

#17: "Your Side of The Bed" - Check out the re-mastered version of this track from the Anticipation mixtape. Trey pulls a Prince move with the MAJOR high note around the 3:40 mark.

While the music flows nicely on Ready, I was slightly disappointed that the version distributed via online download and in-stores only includes one track from Songz's early summer mixtape mega-hit, Anticipation (for more on Anticipation read: 'The Heir Apparent'). But, according to Troy Taylor and the good folks at itunes three songs from Anticipation and two videos ("Brand New" and "I Need A Girl") appear on the deluxe download of Ready. Shine Shine baby.

Ultimately, all of the release date snafus and leaks of this album have been well worth the wait. Ready is not only a compilation of great songs but, also allows us to witness the resurgence of R&B in our generation. It's about time. On behalf of those who love R&B as much as I do: we been ready. Thanks for the music.



Ready (Sept. 1st, 2009)
1. Panty Droppa-Intro
2. Neighbors Know My Name
3. I Invented Sex (feat. Drake)
4. I Need A Girl
5. One Love
6. Does He Do It
7. Say Aah
8. LOL:-) (feat. Gucci Mane and Soulja Boy Tell ‘Em)
9. Ready To Make Luv
10. Jupiter Love
11. Be Where You Are
12. Successful (feat. Drake)
13. Black Roses
14. Love Lost
15. Hollalude
16. Holla If You Need Me
17. Yo Side Of The Bed

"It's my desire to be the best at what I do. I actually love my job. I love making music, and I love proving to people that I'm worthy of being mentioned with the best, with the elite. It's always been a goal of mine just to make sure, within myself, I stay persistent, and to never let myself down. With that being said, I go hard. That's the only way for me to go." - Trey Songz

Album: Ready by Trey Songz (Atlantic)

Favorite Tracks: "Black Roses", "Say Aaah" feat. Fabolous, "Neighbors Know My Name" (shouts to the boy John "SK" McGee for the production credit), and "Love Lost".

Check This Out: Songz and Drake released the highly anticipated video for the single "Successful". Click HERE to view. No "Breast" you ever had here! Haha. Sorry... :)

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD READY ON ITUNES

Johnta = My Favorite Ocean

Commandments of LOVE.

It's not the newest VH1 reality show...let's hope. :) Four-time Grammy Award winning singer/songwriter Johnta Austin (best known for his hit "Turn It Up") released his version of Biggie's epic "10 Crack Commandments" aptly titled, "10 Love Commandments".

The original beat remains the same (thank GOD) but, Johnta switches it up with his sing-song vocals and simple, yet, intricate background vocals around the 1:25 mark, and there are of course, the lyrics. Johnta pretty much breaks down his manual on the do's and don'ts of relationship etiquette:

"...Number 5//Surprise//You should never lie//Cuz what's done in the dark always comes to the light//A real human being only stands by the truth//So no matter what the problem that's exactly what you do..."

"...Number 8//This one is short and sweet//If God ain't in the mix then your headed for defeat..."

"...Number 9//Shoulda been number 1 to me//Fellas if you ain't sure don't you give her no ring//Marriage is a journey that you can't take lightly//And because she got your kids that don't mean make her your Wifey"

I am in LOVE with this song. Aside from actually remixing this hit and not making it lame (sorry, J. Holiday), Johnta Austin has come up with a clever spin on a classic while schooling us in a way that is positively entertaining. I especially agree with numbers 2, 3, 5, 6 (hehehe), 7 (YES LAWD), 8 (praise him)...heck, all of em. In fact, I've added a one: Number 11//Better listen to Johnta//if you don't the one you love'll be the one that got away...ayy! :) Lame. I know. :)

If you haven't already heard his album Ocean Drive definitely listen. My favorite track: "The One Who Got Away."

Seriously a must download.

Listen to Johnta Austin's "10 Love Commandments"

Listen to the original "10 Crack Commandments" by The Notorious B.I.G.