MAXWELL+SY SMITH+FULL CRATE = DOPE!

THE SANDWICHE MAN IS BACK AT IT!


Check out the lastest video from the leaner Reuben Studdard called "Together" off of his upcoming album. The track seems very radio friendly with an almost "wedding song" sounding vibe, but put eyes on it yourself and get a wiff of what the Reuben is cooking!

MOTIVATIONAL PHRASE OF THE DAY!

Always remember to keep your eye on the prize!

BEST UV SOUNDTRACK 2 MIXX!
I did a post last month speaking on the love-hate relationship that I have with urban movie soundtracks. Basically, most soundtracks stink overall, but there are a few that actually worthy of a purchase. I have already mentioned the praise-worthy “Above the Rim” and “Love Jones” soundtracks in past posts, but one other deserving of some attention is the “High School High” soundtrack. No, I’m not referring to the resent teeny-bopper “High School Musical” movie that has all the kids peeing in their underwear from excitement. The film I’m talking about starred Jon Luvitz and hit the big screen back in 1996. To be honest, that movie stunk like hot garbage in the summertime, but the soundtrack was nice. The soundtrack showcased hot tracks from artists like Pete Rock, Wu-Tang Clan, De La Soul, Faith Evans, The Roots, Lil’ Kim, etc. I kept that CD on heavy rotation for months, before somebody decided to steal it from my vehicle dammit! Curse all thieves with athlete’s foot and anal warts. Thankfully, the wonderful and strange e-world known as the Internet has provided me with the opportunity to recover what was stolen from me.

Today, I share with you part 2 of the “Best Uv Soundtrack” mixx series. Listening to these tracks definitely brought back some good memories from my past. It’s amazing how music can remind you of specific times in your life regardless of how old you get. Memories of past relationships, family gatherings, and old jobs came rushing back into my head. Take this trip down memory lane…

Best Uv 2 Playlist:

01) Usher – Call Me A Mack (Higher Learning)
02) Adriana Evans/Phife – Never Say Goodbye (Ride)
03) SWV – Anything (Above The Rim)
04) Nuttin’ Nyce – Down 4 Whatever (Lowdown Dirty)
05) Donell Jones – I’ll Go (Love & Basketball)
06) Queen Latifah – It’s Alright (Nothing To Lose)
07) Rhythm & Knowledge – U Bring Da Dog Out (Above The Rim)
08) Tammy Lucas – Is It Good To You (Juice)
09) Ralph Tresvant – Money Can’t Buy Me Love (Mo Money)
10) Guy – My Fantasy (Do The Right Thing)
11) Lauryn Hill – The Sweetest Thing (Love Jones)
12) Jodeci/Dogg Pound – Come Up To My Room (Murder Was The Case)
13) Changing Faces – What I’ve Been Missin (Hav Plenty)
14) Anthony Hamilton/Terri Robinson – I Will Go (NY Undercover)
15) Immature – House Party (House Party 3)
16) Bubba – I Like Your Style (House Party 2)
17) Aaron Hall – Don’t Be Afraid (Juice)
18) Hodge – Head Nod (Panther)
19) Alicia Keys – Dah Dee Dah (Men In Black)

GET BEST UV PART 2 HERE!

GET PART 1 HERE!

REINTRODUCING VALVIN ROANE AS V!
Soul singers come and go. While many are just average acts searching for opportunity, there are a few that make a lasting impression on music lovers. In my book Valvin Roane II a.k.a. V is one of those that impressed me a lot with his debut album “The Revelation Is Now Televised” back in 2006. I still remember going to the BBE Music website every other day to hear the album snippets until I finally got my copy. Actually, my friend Honeysoul slid me copy of the promo joint on the low-low. The somewhat underground tactics used to promote that album caused it to be overlooked by the masses. It was considered an instant classic to V’s core fans, and definitely deserved greater exposure. If you’ve been downloading my mixxes for any length of time, you’ve already heard nearly every track from his debut album by now.

Fortunately, V has finally released his second album (digitally) entitled “The Soulution for Life Is Love” for all to hear. I’ve listened to the new album a couple of times now, and I like it. While it doesn’t have the same feel as the first album, there is much to appreciate. I already have a few favorite tracks that I keep on repeat, and now it’s your turn to pick some favorites of your own. You have 19 tracks to put ears on, so have at it. Support good music...

Listen to track snippets and/or purchase V’s new album at: www.soundclick.com


www.myspace.com/vsign

INVINCIBLE MC FT. TIOMBE LOCKHART!


Checkout Invincible's latest music video for the track "Ropes" because it's necessary. This track actually has a message...

THE INDI-UNDA RAP MIXX!

01-Mos Def – Ms. Fat Booty (Vin Remix)
02-Cy Yung/Madlib ft. Silent Knight – Forcefeel
03-Jadakiss ft. Avery Storm – I Tried
04-Q-Tip – Go Hard
05-Theophilus London – Ooos and Ahhs
06-Diamond District – In The Ruff
07-Jay Z/Common – I Can’t Knock H.E.R.
08-Killa Mike ft. Jagged Edge – Leave This Hood
09-Black Milk – Mo’ Power
10-Cy Yung/Madlib – Red Bird
11-Rapper Big Pooh ft. Chaundon – Hands Up
12-Finale’ – I Need U (Patience)
13-Big Tone ft. Ta’Raach/Phoenix – The Look
14-U-N-I & Ro Blvd – My Life
15-Rapper Big Pooh – The Comeback
16-Diamond District – I Mean Business
17-Method Man/Redman ft. Saukrates - A-Yo
18-Royce Da 5’9 – Crazy
19-Onra – Beef Outro

GET IT HERE!

MOS DEF'S "ECSTATIC" DROPS JUNE 9TH!

RAPPER BIG POOH'S CANDY BARS!
North Carolina is definitely in the spot right now! Fans of the Justus League and Little Brother take heed. Most folks feel that Phonte is the better rapper of the Little Brother duo. No doubt, Phontigallo can do no wrong on the microphone, but I feel that Rapper Big Pooh is no slouch either. Pooh plays his position. Personally, I loved Pooh's first solo album "Sleepers" a hell of a lot. I had that CD in heavy rotation for several months, but plenty of rap fans overlooked the kid's efforts. Some fickle rap fans didn't even give the guy a chance based on their unfair comparisons of him to Tay. If you missed "Sleepers" when it originally dropped, get that! With production from Khrysis and 9th Wonder, and guest vocals from Phonte and Darien Brockington, how could it not be pure dope? Fortunately, Big Pooh has released a new digital project called "Delightful Bars (Candy Apple Edition)" available for download on iTunes. The new joint seems more grittier than the first and Pooh's lyrics are more straight edged this time around. I dig it! He almost seems somewhat pissed off at the doubters, so if your one of them this project is for you with love.

The dopest thing about this whole Rapper Big Pooh movement is that he is actually releasing four different versions of his album. Each version is unique with different songs. The titles of the four versions are: Candy Apple Version (iTunes only version out now); North American Pie Version (drops April 21st); Belgian Chocolate Version (????); and Japanese Diafuku Version (????).

VIEW THE VARIOUS ALBUM COVERS BELOW:

















































CHECK RAPPER'S LATEST VIDEO:


WWW.MYSPACE.COM/RAPPERBIGPOOH

MUNESHINE'S A STATUS SYMBOL!
Hip-Hop is still in effect around these parts. Today, I'm speaking (typing actually) on my man Munshine representing Canada to the fullest. I'm glad that Eminem broke the door down for white rappers, by actually being talented on the mic. I know emcees like Pete Nice, MC Serch & Everlast (Whitey Ford) dropped hot verses long before Slim Shady, but his success overall is what made the biggest difference in my humble opinion. Today, the underground hip-hop game is full of talented rappers that just happen to be white. Personally, Muneshine is one of my favorites. His rhymes are consistantly solid, plus his production is always on point. Whether he's producing his own tracks or giving other respected producers like Illmind, Oddisee and M.Phazes the reigns, the end result is hynotic goodness!

Even though Muneshine is definitely hip-hop, he tends to easily incorporate soulful vibes throughout his projects. Sometimes, it's the addition of soulful guest vocals from artists like Denosh and Minor Image, or a flipped/reworked R&B sample. I have kept Muneshine's "Status Symbol" album in heavy rotation over the last few weeks. If you missed it, be sure to get yourself a copy and hear what you think!

Peep two of his videos:

Muneshine ft. D Minor - Today's Special

Muneshine - Globetrotters

Be sure to get a copy of the Muneshine's latest mixtape "Big Man On Campus" by clicking HERE!

Check the websites for info and music:

Munshine's Blog

www.myspace.com/status_symbol

www.myspace.com/munshineproduction

TIME FOR SOME JAZZFUL VIBRATIONS!
I've been in a jazzy mood as of late, so I thought it would be cool to share some laid back sounds with you. Personally, I feel that are not many genres of music that can stand the test of time, and jazz is definitely one of them. The gentleman in the photo on the left is the living legend Joe Sample. If you never seen this man perform live, you have definitely been missing out. His live shows are priceless, so if you ever get the chance to attend one -- do it! If you are new to Joe Sample's greatness, there's no time like the present to get familiar. I suggest starting with his greatest hits album to get a feel of his style, then start collecting the albums.

Okay, enough typing...let's get into some music:

01-Herbie Hancock – No Means Yes
02-George Duke – Feel
03-Marcus Miller ft. Corrine Bailey Rae – Free
04-Minnie Ripperton – Take a Little Trip

05-Joe Sample – The Road Less Traveled
06-Jazz Allstars – Every Time I Think About Her
07-Roy Ayers Ubiquity – The Third Eye
08-Ahmad Miller – Sunny C
09-Boney James ft. Dwele – In The Rain
10-Boney James ft. Dwele – Break of Dawn
11-Frank McComb – Chick
12-David Sanborn – Miss You
13-Bobby Humphrey – Uno Esta
14-Alex Bugnon – All That I Can Say
15-Freemont Saxx – Cross My Mind

GET JAZZFUL HERE!

METH & RED R BLACKING OUT AGAIN!
If you're like me, you've been anticipating this Method Man & Redman hip-hop reunion for years now. The only other reunions that I'm still waiting for at this point are, Black Star (Mos Def & Talib Kweli) and Gang Starr (Guru & DJ Premier). I guess one out of three isn't bad. Since these two veteran emcees have been out of the limelight for a spell, some may be wondering if they still have the gift of gab. Well, worry no more. Judging by their first single from the "Blackout! 2" album entitled "A-Yo" featuring Canadian rapper Saukrates, they haven't lost a verse. Honestly, it's refreshing to hear some emcees on the mic that are actually rhyming! It's sad to say, but most of the rap records on the airwaves these days are just chants and annoyingly-catchy hooks. Hip-hop definitely needs this burst of adrenaline. The new album drops on May 19th, so keep your ears open, and support good music...

Put eyes on the new "A-Yo" video:

www.myspace.com/methodman

www.myspace.com/redman

REAL DETROIT WEEKLY ON HIP-HOP!

Here in Michigan there is a free entertainment newspaper called "Real Detroit Weekly" that has a lot to offer locals that enjoy clubbing, concerts and great restaurants. The writers on the RDW staff constantly stay in the mix of what is going on around town, so if your the "barfly" type this paper is an asset. Personally, I enjoy reading blunt and honest album reviews that are done weekly. This one of the only places that I can depend on to get that straight forward commentary that I desire. Recently, one of my favorite critics, Eric Allen, shared his review of Flo Rida's latest album release entitled "R.O.O.T.S" in the RDW. Even though I have heard a couple of Flo Rida's songs in the past, I don't consider myself a fan of his music. With that being said, I somewhat curious about Eric's opinion of his new joint. As I began reading the album review, I quickly realized that many of the statements written were not just talking about Flo Rida and his music, but it was also a personal perspective of what hip-hop music has become. Being an original fan and supporter of hip-hop music, Eric's words definitely hit mark in my opinion. It's like he took the words right out of my mouth. For that reason, I thought that I'd take time to share these words with you folks. No matter how you feel about hip-hop at this point, please read these statments and let them marinate for a minute. Then if you feel inspired, please leave a comment sharing your opinion...

Eric Allen's words:

The days of the great hip-hop album are done. Gone. Dead. Finished. It sounds old and jaded to say it, but there is nothing being made today that comes anywhere close to records like De La Soul's "3 Feet High and Rising," Public Enemy's "It Takes A Nation of Millions To Hold Us Back" or EPMD's "Strictly Business." Ultimately, instead of focusing on making a complete album, artists in the hip-hop game seem concerned about creating the most throw-away thing possible, the single.

Perhaps the notion speaks ill of the hip-hop industry itself. If so -- then so be it. In a genre where flavor of the singles are how you make your buck, it is somewhat standard to never hear from a rapper or singer again after they make that first splash. Sure, your single had a dance that went with it, the track had cred and was a banger in the club, but careers shouldn't and can't be, built around singles. If that's the case, you're most likely one and done.

So what happens when an artist, like Flo Rida, releases an album of half-assed hip-hop songs that piggyback on that one "great" single -- and that single isn't even that good? It's time to dim the lights, say goodbye and find a new job doing something else. What's life like at that point? You'll have to ask Vanilla Ice, Tone Loc, Quad City DJs, Kris Kross, Shawty Lo, Huey, Hurricane Chris, Gorilla Zoe or Rich Boy -- they could probably tell you. -- ERIC ALLEN

Oh yeah, Eric gave the "R.O.O.T.S" album 2 stars out of 5.

www.realdetroitweekly.com

MY SOUL IS/AIN'T FOR SALE!

Recently, I was had a music discussion with my people, and a debatable topic came up. The question was asked: Why are some music artists selling out to make a quick buck? During the conversation, Raheem DeVaughn and Musiq Soulchild were unanimously called sellouts! One of my favorite soul records by Raheem DeVaughn is called “My Soul Ain’t For Sale” off of Jazzy Jeff’s “Return of the Magnificent” compilation. I always thought that record was Raheem profoundly speaking from the heart as an artist. The message being: no matter how little money I may make as an artist, the integrity of my soul or music will never be for sale. Well, judging by some of Raheem’s recent radio friendly records like the track “Text Message,” and the horrific “Club Hop” featuring T-Pain, that may not be the case. After hearing both tracks, I was initially disappointed, but I understood. Is it fair to hold artists musically captive with our personal expectations?

Truthfully, most music fans are finicky anyway. They either expect their favorite artists to keep reinventing themselves with every single, or want them to sound exactly the same on every album. Regardless of what road they choose, somebody is not going to be happy, so I guess it’s a losing battle.

Here are my thoughts on the topic…

I think it’s important to remember that music artists are creating and selling music with hopes of making money. At the end of the day, that’s what it’s about. This is a full time job for most of them, and they need money to make a decent living. I’m quite sure you can name several artists that create great music, but aren’t selling the records or making the money that some lesser mainstream talents are. That reason alone will make the average artist sell their old fans out for new mainstream ones. Is that really a crime? I think not.

That’s no different than you taking a promotion at your job doing something you hated for better pay. People do it all of the time, and music artists are no exception. As fans I know that we agree with all of our favorite artists’ career decisions, but we should at least respect them. Sometimes, it’s difficult to remember that behind every singer or rapper is a real person, living a real life. Unfavorable decisions are necessary sometimes…

So, what’s your opinion on the subject? Speak on it...

GO MICHIGAN STATE SPARTANS!!
The state of Michigan is buzzing right now! Detroit is hosting the NCAA Final Four basketball tournament this year, and the Michigan State Spartans (underdogs to many) took it to UConn yesterday. Now, we play the North Carolina Tarheels for the championship tomorrow. Hopefully, it's a good game overall, but it'll be a better game if the Spartans win the championship. Regardless, I'll be watching it. Downtown Detroit has been off the clothes hanger these last few days. The local bars, clubs, restaurants, etc. are full to the Nike Air Max! Also, there have been several free concerts going on as well. Folks like Keith Sweat a.k.a. The Sweaty One, Fergie and N.E.R.D. took to the stage over the weekend to keep the drunken crowds entertained between games.

Now, it's my turn to keep you folks entertained...

This lastest mixx is full of soul joints that should get your ears open. I call it the "Soul Championship 09 Mixx" so put ears on it when you get a chance.

PLAYLIST

01*Aaliyah - Are You Ready
02*Michael Jackson ft. Oddisee - Butterflies Remix
03*Sydney Michelle - Simple L.A. Girl
04*Marsha Ambrosius - Cloud 9
05*Ryan Leslie - Diamond Girl
06*Rena & Daru - ILuvU
07*Ayah - Might Not Be
08*Slakah The Beatchild - Butta Fat Vibes
09*Tiffany Paige ft. Scienz of Life - Exclusive Rights
10*Peter Hadar - Sweat
11*Simone - One Night
12*Estelle - Star
13*SteveandI - Come and Get It
14*Kisha Griffin - Don't Stop
15*Big Tone - Paid, Laid & Played
16*Ray Robinson & Divine Brown - Crate Love
17*Brandy ft. Kanye West - Talk About Our Love
18*Mary Blige ft. Dave Young - Settle Down
19*Fave & Big La - Anything But No
20*Dwele G - Dime For Your Thoughts
21*Jennifer Johns - Ghetto Stories

GET IT HERE!

HOTT VIDEOS: AYAH VS. SIJI!

Ayah - Believe


Siji - Yearning For Home

DJ KERO IS THE ONE!
The deejay, producer, rapper from Cali named Kero One has been doing his music thing for several years now. Kero took the independent route of getting into the music business by shopping his first 12" around to different labels and stores back in 2003. Eventually, one of those vinyls found its way over to a Japan, and into the hands of local club deejay. The 12" was hit in Japan, and the rest is history as they say. Kero released his debut album "Windmills of the Soul" in 2005, which didn't get the attention it deserved in my opinion. I definitely dug his smooth soulful beats. If you missed it, put ears on it! Kero One will be releasing his second album "Early Bird" on April 7th. I've been listening to a promo of the new joint for minute, and it's pretty solid. EB has some of the flavor from Kero's debut album, but it seems more polished. You'll definitely be hearing some of these joint on my upcoming mixxes.

For all of you new comers to the Kero One flavor, you'll probably be shocked when you hear the voice coming out of this Asian kat. Just another reason why you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, or some ish like that...

Find out more about Kero One and hear some of his music below:

www.kero1.com

www.myspace.com/keroone