WHAT I'M LISTENING TO IN 2017
India Arie nourishes my soul. It's as though, god's answers to my prayers are manifested through the soul queen's music. I own every album that she has recorded, starting with her debut album "Acoustic Soul," which was released in 2001. I have played them so much, that I've worn all of them out and bought each one of them again. My children constantly tell me that nobody buys CD's anymore, and that I should download music onto my cell phone. Please.... I don't care what they say. I'm old school, and I buy CDs because I prefer to have something tangible in my hands. Plus, I enjoy looking at the artwork and reading about everyone who contributed to the making of it.
In 2013, India Arie released her fifth album titled "Songversation," and as usual, the singer/songwriter/musician doesn't disappoint. This record is sensual, thoughtful, inspiring and sexy.
This album is definitely for grown folks. I'm absolutely in love with "Songversation" it in it's entirety, but if I was pressed to pick favorites, the first would be "This Love." People if you've spent a large portion of your life with someone and loved them with your entire being, then you've probably gone through some things and have weathered some storms. I'm certain that you can relate to this song. Part of the lyrics are "This Love will have glory, this love will have shame, this love at times will triumph, this love at times will fail, it can be heaven or hell." Yessss. That's it. I also adore "Flowers," "Thy Will Be Done," "Cocoa Butter," and "One."
India Arie Bio/News
India Arie Tour Dates
In 2013, India Arie released her fifth album titled "Songversation," and as usual, the singer/songwriter/musician doesn't disappoint. This record is sensual, thoughtful, inspiring and sexy.
This album is definitely for grown folks. I'm absolutely in love with "Songversation" it in it's entirety, but if I was pressed to pick favorites, the first would be "This Love." People if you've spent a large portion of your life with someone and loved them with your entire being, then you've probably gone through some things and have weathered some storms. I'm certain that you can relate to this song. Part of the lyrics are "This Love will have glory, this love will have shame, this love at times will triumph, this love at times will fail, it can be heaven or hell." Yessss. That's it. I also adore "Flowers," "Thy Will Be Done," "Cocoa Butter," and "One."
India Arie Bio/News
India Arie Tour Dates
Chrisette Michele's music is what I listen to when I just want to relax and reflect. When my life is busy and hectic, I turn on Chrisette. Instantly her pretty velvet voice brings to me a since of calmness.
Chrisette Michele Payne grew up singing gospel in church where her father was a deacon, and her mother was the choir director. After one of Michele's teachers handed her a CD containing the bossa nova standard, "The Girl from Ipanema by Brazillian singer Astrud Gilberto," she immediately fell in love with jazz.
At 17, Chrisette began attending Five Townes College in Long Island, where she studied vocal and jazz performance as they were sung by the greats like Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday Sarah Vaugn, Nat King Cole and Frank Sinatra.
Chrisette co-writes her songs, and has had the pleasure of working with some of the greatest producers of our time such as, Babyface, Salaam Remi, John Legend, will.i.am, Rodney Jenkins and Chuck Harmony.
I have been a fan of Chrisette's since her debut record, "I Am." The tracks "Good Girl, Work It Out, Just You, If I Have My Way and Best Of Me," are among some of my favorites.
Chrisette's second CD "Epiphany" is always playing in my house or in my car. "Fragile, I'm Leaving, Blame It On Me and What you do ft Ne-Yo," continue to be at the top of my playlist. And, I can't forget about a "Couple of Forever's" from her album "Better."
I could go on and on all day about this extraordinarily gifted young artist, but if you want a treat, go to youtube, type Chrisette Michele in the search bar and just listen. I'm sure you'll become a lifelong fan like myself.
Chrisette Michele Bio
Chrisette Michele Tour Dates
Chrisette Michele Payne grew up singing gospel in church where her father was a deacon, and her mother was the choir director. After one of Michele's teachers handed her a CD containing the bossa nova standard, "The Girl from Ipanema by Brazillian singer Astrud Gilberto," she immediately fell in love with jazz.
At 17, Chrisette began attending Five Townes College in Long Island, where she studied vocal and jazz performance as they were sung by the greats like Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday Sarah Vaugn, Nat King Cole and Frank Sinatra.
Chrisette co-writes her songs, and has had the pleasure of working with some of the greatest producers of our time such as, Babyface, Salaam Remi, John Legend, will.i.am, Rodney Jenkins and Chuck Harmony.
I have been a fan of Chrisette's since her debut record, "I Am." The tracks "Good Girl, Work It Out, Just You, If I Have My Way and Best Of Me," are among some of my favorites.
Chrisette's second CD "Epiphany" is always playing in my house or in my car. "Fragile, I'm Leaving, Blame It On Me and What you do ft Ne-Yo," continue to be at the top of my playlist. And, I can't forget about a "Couple of Forever's" from her album "Better."
I could go on and on all day about this extraordinarily gifted young artist, but if you want a treat, go to youtube, type Chrisette Michele in the search bar and just listen. I'm sure you'll become a lifelong fan like myself.
Chrisette Michele Bio
Chrisette Michele Tour Dates
R&B songstress Jill Scott has released her first record since 2011. The new album titled "WOMAN" is her 5th studio release. The North Philly Grammy Award winning singer/actress and poet, co-executive produced this album along with Andre Harris and Aaron Pearce.
I'm a big fan of Jill Scott's neo-soul sound and have enjoyed her music since her first record was released in 2000 - "Who Is Jill Scott?" That record is still one that I listen to on the regular. I love everything on the album. Jill Scott's music is so damn sexy. A glass of wine and Jill in the music player is all I need to relax and just chill.
I'm a big fan of Jill Scott's neo-soul sound and have enjoyed her music since her first record was released in 2000 - "Who Is Jill Scott?" That record is still one that I listen to on the regular. I love everything on the album. Jill Scott's music is so damn sexy. A glass of wine and Jill in the music player is all I need to relax and just chill.
R&B songstress Jill Scott has released her first record since 2011. The new album titled "WOMAN" is her 5th studio release. The North Philly Grammy Award winning singer/actress and poet, co-executive produced this album along with Andre Harris and Aaron Pearce.
I'm a big fan of Jill Scott's neo-soul sound and have enjoyed her music since her first record was released in 2000 - "Who Is Jill Scott?" That record is still one that I listen to on the regular. I love everything on the album. Jill Scott's music is so damn sexy. A glass of wine and Jill in the music player is all I need to relax and just chill.
I also really enjoy listening to her new record "Woman." Miss Scott did not disappoint. As usual, many of the lyrics from her songs say exactly what I'm thinking. My favorites on the album are "Prepared (Been letting some old ideas go, I'm making room in my life to grow, I just wanna be prepared)." I love that........ I'm also in love with "Lighthouse, Fool Gold, Cruising, Back Together and of course You don't Know." All of which are classic Jill Scott. If you're a Jill Scott fan, you absolutely have to buy this record. For those of you who don't know who Jill Scott is, check her out.
Jill Scott's Tour Dates - http://www.missjillscott.com/
Jill Scott's Bio - http://www.biography.com/people/jill-scott--21232191
She's Back! Janet Jackson, "Ms Jackson If You're Nasty," just dropped the single and video from her anticipated 11th album. The gorgeous superstar recorded her last studio LP titled "Discipline" in 2008. (Which by the way, I am still listening to.)
The single title "No Sleep" is soft, sultry and sexy. The single somewhat reminds me of Janet's record "I Get Lonely" from her 1997 LP, The Velvet Rope. The new video features hip hop artist J. Cole.
The beautiful 49 year old singer seems to defy aging. She is looking as hot as ever.
I have had the pleasure of seeing the megastar perform twice. I attended the Rhythm Nation 1814 Tour in 1990 and The Janet Jackson World Tour in 1994. She was amazing on stage. I am long overdue to see Ms. Jackson perform live again. This fall, I plan to attend her upcoming Unbreakable Tour. When her new LP drops, I will be one of the first to purchase it. Yes I said purchase and not download. LOL. We have missed you Janet. Don't stay away so long next time.
http://www.janetjackson.com/
The single title "No Sleep" is soft, sultry and sexy. The single somewhat reminds me of Janet's record "I Get Lonely" from her 1997 LP, The Velvet Rope. The new video features hip hop artist J. Cole.
The beautiful 49 year old singer seems to defy aging. She is looking as hot as ever.
I have had the pleasure of seeing the megastar perform twice. I attended the Rhythm Nation 1814 Tour in 1990 and The Janet Jackson World Tour in 1994. She was amazing on stage. I am long overdue to see Ms. Jackson perform live again. This fall, I plan to attend her upcoming Unbreakable Tour. When her new LP drops, I will be one of the first to purchase it. Yes I said purchase and not download. LOL. We have missed you Janet. Don't stay away so long next time.
http://www.janetjackson.com/
In my opinion Hip Hop Artist Amethyst Amelia Kelly, better known as Iggy Azalea has mad skills. I love her debut album. I have been a rap fan since I was a young girl, and I have had the pleasure of being fans of many female hip hop artists over the years. As far as I am concerned, Iggy's flow is right up their with the best of them.
Her debut record is on fire, and is in my player on a regular basis. The production is really good. It makes me want to dance nd gets me going during my workouts, or when I'm in the mood to get the party started. I enjoy the entire record, but a few of my favorites are Fancy, Work, Goddess, Bounce, 100 featuring Watch the Duck, and New Bitch.
Her debut record is on fire, and is in my player on a regular basis. The production is really good. It makes me want to dance nd gets me going during my workouts, or when I'm in the mood to get the party started. I enjoy the entire record, but a few of my favorites are Fancy, Work, Goddess, Bounce, 100 featuring Watch the Duck, and New Bitch.
Multiple Grammy Award winning producer, musician and songwriter, Kenny (Babyface) Edmonds has graced the world with another album. Again he has teamed up with his muse, multiple Grammy Award winning artist, the lovely and talented Ms. Tony Braxton. I have been a big fan of both Babyface and Tony for many years, so I am excited to see them collaborate again.
As usual they did not disappoint. "Love, Marriage and Divorce," is what I call "grown folks music." It's a classic R&B collection of records that deal with the ups and downs that couples go through. I must say, that both Tony and Babyface haven't missed a beat. Tony's voice is still beautifully rich and soulful, and Babyface is still one of the most talented songwriter producers of our generation.
As usual they did not disappoint. "Love, Marriage and Divorce," is what I call "grown folks music." It's a classic R&B collection of records that deal with the ups and downs that couples go through. I must say, that both Tony and Babyface haven't missed a beat. Tony's voice is still beautifully rich and soulful, and Babyface is still one of the most talented songwriter producers of our generation.
Multiple Grammy Award winning producer, musician and songwriter, Kenny (Babyface) Edmonds has graced the world with another album. Again he has teamed up with his muse, multiple Grammy Award winning artist, the lovely and talented Ms. Tony Braxton. I have been a big fan of both Babyface and Tony for many years, so I am excited to see them collaborate again.
As usual they did not disappoint. "Love, Marriage and Divorce," is what I call "grown folks music." It's a classic R&B collection of records that deal with the ups and downs that couples go through. I must say, that both Tony and Babyface haven't missed a beat. Tony's voice is still beautifully rich and soulful, and Babyface is still one of the most talented songwriter producers of our generation.
As usual they did not disappoint. "Love, Marriage and Divorce," is what I call "grown folks music." It's a classic R&B collection of records that deal with the ups and downs that couples go through. I must say, that both Tony and Babyface haven't missed a beat. Tony's voice is still beautifully rich and soulful, and Babyface is still one of the most talented songwriter producers of our generation.
Shakira and Rihanna teamed up for Shakira's latest release "Can't Remember To forget You." Love Shakira on the guitar and the video is really sexy. Great record.
Katy Perry's Roar is a record that I listen to daily. It really is my personal anthem. I can most definitely relate to the lyrics of that song, and the music gets me going. I also became a big fan of Dark Horse featuring the Hip Hop Artist Juicy J when I saw the duo's stellar performance on the 2014 Grammy Award show. Her voice is amazing, and I have been a big fan of Hip Hop Artist Juicy J for many years. What a sexy record.
Beyonce surprised everyone and released her 5th studio album in December 2013. The "Visual Album" entitled "Beyonce" is sold exclusively on iTunes. I have listened to a couple of tracks and so far I love it. Bey is such a talent. Drunk In Love featuring her hubby Jay Z is so sexy. And the video is hot.
Rihanna's record "Unapologetic" has so many great songs. Just to a name a few: Diamonds, Stay (featuring Mikky Ekko), Nobody's Business (featuring Chris Brown) and Right Now (featuring David Ghetta). The one I listen to before going out is "Pour It Up".
Miley Cyrus has grown up. Her new image and record Bangerz, reflect that she is no longer little Hannah Montana.Wrecking Ball which I listen to frequently, is a song about love and heartbreak. I also really like 23, which was produced by Mike Will and features Miley Cyrus, Wiz Khalifa and Juicy J. 23 is a tribute to the legendary Michael Jordan. The beat is SIC and Miley looks gorgeous in the video.
I have two favorite songs on this record. The first being Perfume. This flow of this record puts in mind of Britney's I'm Not A Girl, Not Yet A Woman. My second favorite is Work Bitch. Of course this is in heavy rotation at the clubs.
Robin Thicke's Blurred Lines Featuring Pharrells' vocals and T.I. rapping, on top of a sample of Marvin Gaye's Got To Give It Up, is pretty good. Considering that many of the kids from this generation are not familiar with the late great Marvin Gaye, Robin's version is sure to be a hit. It's a great dance tune and of course Robin's falsetto never disappoints.
I must admit that I am partial to Marvin Gaye's original, it's on my list of greatest songs of all times. However, if you are in the mood to snap your fingers and get your feet moving, "Blurred Lines" is sure to get you out of your seat.
I must admit that I am partial to Marvin Gaye's original, it's on my list of greatest songs of all times. However, if you are in the mood to snap your fingers and get your feet moving, "Blurred Lines" is sure to get you out of your seat.
Ciara's new video is too hot. This girl can really dance. Her new slow jam "Body Party" (the name speaks for itself) is what you listen to when it's time to get busy with your Boo.
Janelle Monae's highly anticipated album, The Electric Lady, entitled "Q.U.E.E.N" is about to drop. It features neo soul songstress Ms. Erykah Badu. Janelle said that the record "Q.U.E.E.N." was inspired by conversations between the two. It's a cute dance song and the lyrics remind me of the 80's hit by Klymaxx "The Men All Pause." Janelle did not disappoint in the video. She tears up dancing her butt off a usual. And she changed her look up a bit, sporting a short bob and black and white stripe dress in some of the scenes. She looks gorgeous as usual. Go girl.
Fantasia Barrino is back, and I am in love with her new record. It's in my CD player and on my MP3. Fantasia believes that this record is some of her best work because it reflects how her career has come full circle. Fantasia said that there have been many ups and many downs since her win on American Idol. Unfortunately in the midst of it all she lost everything. But she has learned from her mistakes and will not make the same ones in the future.
This record is her baby and she wants to take it personally to her fans whom she calls her family. Tasia, when you come to L.A., I will be front row and center. Sometimes you have to Lose to Win. Ain't that the truth girl? LOL.
This record is her baby and she wants to take it personally to her fans whom she calls her family. Tasia, when you come to L.A., I will be front row and center. Sometimes you have to Lose to Win. Ain't that the truth girl? LOL.
I have been waiting for Justin Timberlake to do another record. I must admit he is one of my favorites. This is one white guy with too much soul. My favorite track on the record is Pusher Love Girl. It's a slow jam fit to listen to when you are with your honey. Suit and Tie has a nice flow to it.
Beautiful Kelly Rowland has really grown into a great Artist. She has really come into her own. I thought she was beautiful from the beginning. Her music oozes sex appeal. Motivation featuring Little Wayne, and the one from Ludacris's Album Representain are hot. I also like Lay It On Me featuring Big Sean.
Jennifer Lopez is presently working with Chris Brown on her 10th record. I look forward to that collaboration. Goin In featuring Flo Rida is one of my favorite cuts off of her present record.
Melanie Fiona. It Kills Me is an oldie, but one that I listen to regularly. Ladies I know you can relate to this song. Another Joint by Melanie is "Wrong Side Of A Love Song" from her record the MF Life. It Speaks for itself.
Robin Thicke vs Justin Timberlake. I will take them both. If you are in the mood to chill with your boo, Love After War and Sex Therapy are the two to listen to.
Usher is such a hottie. Music is too sexy. Climax and There goes my baby are my daily doses.
Beyonce has a new record coming out this summer. I love her hit "Girl"s so much. Good to dance to and I love the message Bey is giving. Men think they run the world, but as James Brown said, "this is a man's world, but it would be nothing without a woman or a girl." He got that right! Love On Top is bomb. Bey is so talented. Her voice is amazing, her range is insane.
Too excited about Brandy's new record. Wildest Dreams speaks to me deeply. Love Love It!
Adele has so much soul. Love the entire record "Rolling in the deep." "We could have had it all." "Ain't that the truth." "If he would have just been right." When I saw "Skyfall," I fell in love with the theme song.
Black Eyed Peas always has the hottest joint in the Club. "I just can't get enough!" is one I listen to on the regular. Will.i.am also put it down with Brittany Spears on "Scream and Shout."
Anita Baker still has it. "Lately," her latest record is just as smooth as her 80,s hits "Sweet Love", and "My Angel."
When Mary J. Blige, Hip Hop Queen of Soul released the "My Life II" record, I had to get it. I stay listening to the My Life I record, especially the track "Be Happy." I love how Mary included Puff in the intro on "My Life II" like she did on the "My Life I" record. I have to say that Mary and Nas put it down on "Feel Inside."
"Push and Shove" is the first studio album by No Doubt as a group in over 10 years. "Just A Girl" from the first record Tragic Kingdom" is still in rotation for me.
Chris Brown is a major talent. Triple threat, he dances, sings, and acts excellently. I like his entire new project "Fortune." But I really like "Sweet Love." I like the combination of Techno and R&B. "Turn up the music" is one of the songs that I listen to when I am working out.
Sade "The Ultimate Collection." All of her hits. "Your Love Is King" a favorite.
What can I say about Ms. Rihanna. Talented girl. Entire record " Talk That Talk" rocks. Good club songs. "Diamonds" is a daily must.
"Cee Lo Green, The Lady Killer." Who else can go from one of the best hip hop artists of all time to belting out a R&B hit comparable to the legends of Al green and Marvin Gay? Only Mr. Cee Lo Green. His new track featuring Laurianna Mae (who by the way can sing her butt off) is amazing. I also like the one he featured my girl Melanie Fiona. It is fire. And if that's not enough. The theme song from the hit miniseries "The Bible" "Mary Did You Know" Yep that's Cee Lo. Go Boy!
Flo Rida remixed R&B Songstress Benda Russell's record "Piano In The Dark." Nothing like the original a beautiful ballad, however Flo Rida turned it into a dance hit.
Kendrick Lamar, "Swimming Pools, Drank." Too much. It's bumps though.
Nickie Minaj surprised me with "Pink Friday." I actually like the record. "Moment For Life, Your Love and Right Thru Me." I like her as a singer.
Pink, "Try" is a daily dose of pick me up.