01. Blessed 02. So in Love feat. Anthony Hamilton 03. Shame feat. Eve and The A Group 04. All Cried Out Redux feat. Doug E. Fresh 05. Le BOOM Vent Suite 06. So Gone (What My Mind Says) feat. Paul Wall 07. Hear My Call 08. Some Other Time 09. Making You Wait 10. Until Then (I Imagine) 11. Missing You 12. When I Wake Up 13. Womanifesto 14. Rolling Hills 15. The Light of the Sun 16. Love Soul Bounce (Bonus) 17. Quick (Bonus) 18. I Love You (Bonus)
TRACKS "Lovely Day" "The Light" "Wondering Why" "Running Away" "Love to Love" "Dear Mr. & Mrs. Record Industry" "I Don't Know" "Holdin' On" "Wake Up Baby" "Comes to the Light" "I'm Prettier" + MORE
Born Kumandae Miller, meaning Highly Favored King, was blessed with the gift of music. He has been influenced by great artists such as Marvin Gaye, Charlie Wilson, Angela Winbush, Christopher Williams, Donny Hathaway, Gerald Levert, and Fred Hammond. Raised in Del Paso Heights, a community of Sacramento, California, Kumandae's street experience left him in the middle of a shooting between the crips and bloods. This near death experience propelled Kumandae's journey to better himself through education and sports. With a passion for sports, his hard work and dedication lead him to be drafted into the San Francisco Giants and later the Florida Marlins professional baseball teams. After building his career in baseball, Kumandae felt a spiritual calling leading him to a profession in music. As a singer and songwriter, Kumandae signed with Fo' Life Records, an independent label in Phoenix, Arizona in 2000. In the years following, he worked on various projects with artist and producers such as Christopher Williams, Angela Winbush, Saliah Williams of Carnival Beats, Battle Cat, Swizz Beats, Brian Wilson, Jagged Edge, Avant, Genuine, 50 Cent, and LL Cool J.
Joined by Daughter, Anikol, and Son Mike J, former Tower Of Power lead singer Michael Jeffries is sending out a positive message wrapped in a very pleasing melody. You will find yourself singing along right from the start!
Michael Jeffries was born in Memphis on August 16th 1954. The family moved to Oakland, California in 1962. Michael began his love for music at a young age teaming up with elementary school classmates to form a group that later would become “The Two Things In One” The group had major local success with two singles featuring Michael as lead vocalist “Silly Song” 1971 And “ Together Forever “ 1973. During the early 70’s as front man for the group Michael opened for Earth Wind & Fire, War, Bill Crosby, Funkadelic and a host of other acts. In 1977 Michael was recruited by The Bay areas own Tower Of Power as their lead singer and recorded 4 albums with the band ‘’ We Came To Play CBS 1978, “ Back On The Street “ 1979, Sheffield Labs Direct to disk live 1981 and Dinosaur Tracks in 2003. In 1986 Michael co wrote the billboard top 10 single “ Never Say Never “ for songstress Denise Williams and appeared on the Wildcat’s soundtrack singing the song “ Razzle Dazzle”. In 1987 Michael appeared along with Karyn White as a featured vocalist on Jeff Lorbers “ Private Passion CD. Michael released his first solo CD in 1989 on Warner Bros with tracks produced by Jellybean Johnson, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis.
Hi this is Michael,
I’d like to take you on a tour of how I fell in love with making music. Since I was just young lad music was always around, the radio was always on and the popular songs of the day provided the background and sometimes the foreground to everyday life. My uncles and aunts were teenagers and I live my life looking up to them and trying to understand it all. This was the golden age of the Motown sound and the Memphis sound, it was an era when Radio Dj’s were stars and people would tune in to listen to what the top jocks played. With all the great music coming from Motown and Memphis I had plenty to grow on. But while watching ED Sullivan I got a glimpse of what would push me into action, James Brown. That night on Ed Sullivan I saw something that would not allow me to sit still, I got up and started skating around imitating what I saw James Brown doing and I was his newest 8-year-old fan! With a mirror and a brush for a microphone I skated and hollered until my parents thought I was good enough for half time entertainment at some of their house parties! I would get so excited when I would here them tell their party guest that I was really good at doing the James Brown they would then come and get me to give a impromptu performance and then back to my room out of grown folks business. I looked forward to those opportunities and I'd never shy away from the slightest request.
All this James Brown craze lead me to the record store with my 50 cents to buy I Feel Good. I played that record until the grooves wore thin! I thought I would die when my mother took me to see the Man Himself Live at the Oakland Coliseum in 1966. James blew my top off and I haven’t been able to get it back on every since. Source Cd Baby
1 - Don't Forget 2 Say I Love U 2 - Make Sum 3 - U Be the Reason 4 - A Love From Above 5 - Family Affair 6 - Can't You Feel It 7 - Rewrite 8 - Mother's Love 9 - Plans 10 - Journey On A Butterfly 11 - The Best 12 - Beileve In Me
01. In Love 02. Puppet 03. Beautiful 04. Brand New (Fresh) 05. Not Around 06. Been A Long Time 07. Only You 08. Save Your Love 09. Change For You 10. Assurance Policy 11. Young Love 12. Sex In The City
Born on Valentine’s Day, this Arizona-born songtress, songwriter & producer had sounds of soul music flowing through her veins at an early age. Voice training in those days started at her grandmother’s church. Her professional singing career began at the ripe age of 10 when was chosen to sing background vocals for Jeffery Osborne, and for the Rock Band Yes. While in Junior High School she was one of 50 students selected out of thousands to be apart of a junior USA for Africa that traveled across Southern California to raise funds for the popular charity. Just before entering High School the group had the opportunity to travel to Amman, Jordan to meet the late King Hussein and Queen Noor during a performance at the Jeresh Festival.
The former beauty pageant winner decided long ago while singing along with Natalie Cole’s Our Love that music was her true passion and has set her sights on her dream ever since. While studying classical voice at Howard University, Tobin gained stage experiences performing with the school’s Chorale in which during President Clinton’s Inaugural Gala on
the National Mall, performing background for Diana Ross, Whitley Phipps, and shared the stage with Patti LaBelle, Luther Vandross, Shai and many others. She also got her first taste of the nightclub scene while living in Washington, DC at the infamous Takoma Station, where Roberta Flack got her start. With the introduction to Jazz music yet, another genre added to her repertoire.
Performing demos and background vocals for artists such as Joe, Chico DeBarge, Coolio, Chante Moore, Korea-based Uptown, Coco Lee and Mica Paris has prepared her for her moment to shine as a solo artist. She also appears on James Tobin's sophomore release entitled " Late Nite" and co-wrote the title track. You can hear her fusion of ecclectic collaborations with Calvin Banks "Audio Tunes", Bernard Stevenson "Kingdom of Love" and The Element’s latest release, rounding off the genre appearances of Hip Hop, Gospel, Jazz and Alternative. As a featured singer for the band Eschelon she was a crowd favorite at City of Riverside Concerts in the Park Series. While in the “Valley of the Sun” she has played at the Sail Inn, George Washington Carver Museum, Hot Chocolate Lounge and other local Phoenix venues. Upon the release of her much anticipated solo album, she plans to host CD release parties in both Arizona and California, as both places she considers herself a “hometown girl”.
Although most of her influences are male singers like Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross, Marvin Gaye, Prince, and Donny Hathaway, Tobin is reminiscent of the sultry sounds and richness of R&B or Jazz singers of yesterday.
“ I feel like this is what I was put on this earth to do...” - T. Tobin
She punctuates each line with heart and soul, speaking to every generation with each melodic phrase. Prepare to be touched by her honesty as she expresses her unwavering admiration of her first true love…….music
Born on Valentine’s Day, this Arizona-born songtress, songwriter & producer had sounds of soul music flowing through her veins at an early age. Voice training in those days started at her grandmother’s church. Her professional singing career began at the ripe age of 10 when was chosen to sing background vocals for Jeffery Osborne, and for the Rock Band Yes. While in Junior High School she was one of 50 students selected out of thousands to be apart of a junior USA for Africa that traveled... (read more)
Gender
Female
General Manager
Darla Tobin-Blakes
Press Contact
tobinblakesgroup@aol.com
Influences
Donny Hathaway, Stevie Wonder, Prince, Marvin Gaye......... Life
ITunes UK Links! Every so often a light shines into the darkness of musical mediocrity and from the shadows emerges a fresh new artist with a gift that brings illumination and perspective to their listeners - Colie Williams is such an artist. Colie has had a very diverse background in music. From gracing the stage at the historic Apollo Theater and the Kennedy Center to singing in festivals and clubs nationally, Colie definitely has had her experience live and is ready to release her debut CD “Light Up the Darkness”in March 2011 to share her musical light with the world.
Born and raised in the Bronx, New York, Colette Williams (affectionately known to her friends as Colie) took the stage after her junior high school teacher recognized her vocal talent. She encouraged Colie to attend Music & Arts High School in Harlem. After graduation, Williams continued her studies at Syracuse University where she participated in their musical theatre program. Although an education major, performing piqued her inherent love for music and provided her with a restorative experience that she would be unable to deny.
Colie’s devotion to music and theatre led her to Washington, D.C. There she began touring and performing with various professional theatre productions, most notably, the Kennedy Center for Performing Arts. After concluding her theatre work, Williams turned her focus to developing her own distinctive sound. “I’ve always felt a strong connection to legends like Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole, Stevie Wonder, Donny Hathaway, Roberta Flack and Billie Holiday.” Spirited by the influence of these legendary greats, Colie began honing a melodious style all her own.
With an established vision for her sound, Colie and her band (Soul For A New Day) naturally complement each other with seamless precision during their performances of timeless covers and enticing originals. Though often compared to songstresses like Jill Scott and Teena Marie, Colie’s musical style uniquely blends sounds of sultry jazz and classic R&B with therapeutic elements that speak to the mental, emotional, and spiritual well - being of her listeners. This singer/songwriter creates music to lift, inspire and share her truth. Colie's performances intentionally set out to create intimate landscapes where she connects and shares her vision with the audience.
As Williams reaches back to call upon the classic styles of Ella, Sarah and Billie to inspire her music, her message reaches forward towards today’s audiences.
Liverpool's local nerd and neo soul junkie Esco Williams (J.Esco the Geek of the jsoul project) has now fully immersed himself in nothing but creativity, save his xbox and comic books, to deliver a project as close to his heart as he can get. taking inspiration from Eric Roberson's Music Fan First campaign/ethos, he has endevoured to capture the sounds he loves and his stories to create a listening experience that is not only personal but reflects his influences, loves and passion. The INTROduction EP is a small taste of what to expect from the upcoming album. stay tuned. credits released 19 February 2010 executive producer J. Esco the Geek
all songs written and arranged by J. Esco the Geek unless otherwise stated
This album...is not really an album. lol This is just a central location of all my "unreleased" music. I've entitled it "JOY" because a lot of the music that I will put on here will be stuff I do just because I enJOY making music. I truly do love it...it makes me happy. :-) So feel free to download it for your listening pleasure!! And check back from time to time to see new updates!!
T.R.A.C. was the featured MC on Lewis Parker's underground Hip Hop hit Grand Manoeuvres. This extraordinary Brooklyn based MC currently holds residency at the legendary Webster Hall in NYC. Here's The Network, 15 tracks produced by Marc Mac, One-half of the award winning production oufit 4hero. The album has been hailed as 'the return of real undiluted Hip Hop' and is getting great support through many eclectic Hip Hop online radio stations worldwide. Through the Mc's narration the album centers around today's personal world and societies troubles. All of which are metaphorically thrown into the fantasy of a cable TV Station. Think of each song as an episode on television that you might watch complete with the news, stories, adverts, reality and... good music! Some songs were inspired by the phenomenal Network movie as well as the sending of many wave files back and forth through the broadband. The combination of Marc Mac's melodic production and T.R.A.C.'s exceptional lyrics make these compositions a very worthy and addictive listen. Like it says on "Radio Heroes" they are "here to save you from the same old things"... through "The Network".
T.R.A.C. - The Network (produced by Marc Mac) (CD/Digital/Digital instrumental version) Barely Breaking Even BBE168ACD/BBE168ADG/BBE168IDG, 2011-04-25
Tracklisting : 01. Top Of The Morning (Intro) 02. Step Rite On In feat. Baron aka Drue Davis 03. Like The Heavens 04. Radio Heroes feat. Baron aka Drue Davis 05. Wicked City 06. Over My Shoulders 07. The Risin' feat. Baron aka Drue Davis 08. On The Inside (edition) 09. Ms Geenie feat. Stitch 7 10. Fine Tunin' 11. It's Alright feat. Jen Holland 12. Tel-lie-vision (Marc Mac intermission) 13. Somn ' For Your Ears 14. If This Ain't Music 15. For The Love (Outro)
Tracklisting 'Marc Mac - Beats From The Network' digital instrumental album : 01. Top Of The Beat 02. Step On 03. Need Stars 04. Radio Dial 05. The City 06. My Shoulders 07. Rising 08. Inside 09. Make A Wish 10. Tune In 11. Wid Me 12. Tel-lie-vision Beat 13. People (Ya Ears) 14. Skool Music 15. Love (What I'm Sayin')
Marking The Days off My Calendar For This Set. Juno Records will have stock
There is something to be said about simplicity. It renders no extravagance but rather presents ‘essence’ in an unequivocal, raw, and untainted form. And if the heart matters, then by way of this simple mechanism does Deirdre “Dei” Gaddis render her gifts and talents. Reflecting upon her life to this point, Dei says, “My life has proved to be difficult at times, happy at others, and sometimes just more than I cared to have to deal with… But when I look at where I’ve been, the place where I am now, and where I know God can take me, I laugh. I laugh at the devil for thinking that he could take me. If there is one thing I could say to sum it all up, it’s never give up on your dream.” Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, Dei has been chasing the dream since age 8. Dei says, “Music has always been my release. It allows me to escape the pressures of reality and enter into a haven of peace even when life would dictate otherwise…”
Dei’s music is set to inspire a generation of dreamers. She writes of her own life experiences both good and bad… “Everything I’ve been through has helped me to become what and who I am today. There’s always someone else who’s taken a couple of the same twists and turns in life that you have. That’s why my music reaches so many… they can identify with it.” Deirdre recently signed with BLG Music Group and became part of the 111 East. She released her first single in December 2010, Her much anticipated project, “The Key of Dei” is scheduled for release in early March 18th 2011. Keep your eyes open for the sultry sound of Ms. Gaddis coming to a radio and venue near you!
This biography was provided by the artist or their representative.
Mic Royal - Wake Up - The Mic Royal Project (album) - 2011 Vick Jones & DaFlow Entertainment - You Make Me Smile - Krystal Klein & DaFlow Ent - DaFlow Entertainment Presents Vick Jones - 2011 Bobby Womack - That Thing You Do Remixed By Exclusive (feat. Rustee Allen) - That Thing You Do - Single - 2011 TJ BROWN - ALONE - ALONE - 2011 Noel Gourdin - Beautiful - single (upcoming album fresh definition) - 2011 Park Place - Heaven's Paradise - Steps - 2011 Dw3 - On The Floor - On The Floor - 2011 Bridgette Bryant - Soft Place - single - 2011 Bradd Marquis - I Want To Be In Love - I Want To Be In Love - 2011 Nicole Mitchell - Need To Know - No Suicide - Be Aware, Show You Care Project - 2010 Dave Young - Starting To Love You - Promo - 2010 Dilys - What I Want (Without Rap) - What I Want (Without Rap) - 2011 Dj Kool Bob Underground Snappa - Tonight (feat. Fel Davis) - Tonight (feat. Fel Davis) - Single - 2011 Elliot Luv - Gangsta Love - Soulcial Engineering - 2011 Heston - Greatest Lover - Warm Human Cold World - 2011 J. Tait - Think It Over (feat. Magestik Legend) - Things On My Mind Ep Pt.1 - 2009 Marvin - It Was Love - It Was Love - 2011 Michael Jeffries, Daughter & Son - The Best - Family Affair - 2011 AZARYAH - HEART TO SOUL - AZARYAH - 2010 Jagged Edge - She Flows Through My Veins - Single on promo - 2011 Joint Heirs - Beautiful Cool - If We Stay True - 2011 Mar Variation - 2u4u - J Dilla Tribute track - 2011 Mary Mary - Walking (Main) - Single-album "something Big" coming spring - 2010 Avant Ft. Lloyd Banks - Exclusive - promo single - 2011 AKA Subliminal - Make Up Your Mind' ft. Karen Jules & Versatyle - Trainathought (out on video) - 2010 Melissa Untalon - I Live For You - Who I am - 2010 Metropolis (MWORLD & TC CUNNINGHAM) - lovin U extended remix - MWORLD NITES REMIX - 2011 MWORLD FEAT CHANEL - ONE MORE DRINK - (DJ R&BSOULCLUB PROMO MIX) - 2011 Phill Wade - Talk to Me - Talk to Me (feat. Enjolee) - 2011 PVD & Cymarshall Law - the One - The One (Sounds Like This Bonus Track) - 2011 RyanLee & Fam - Forever - promo single - 2011 Shauntae Shaun Ali" Suttle" - Authentic Love - Enough is Enough EP Soundtrack - 2011 Soulfruit - Hustle - Return - 2011 Tenille - Winner - Winner - 2011 Teri Tobin - Free - Free - 2011 Ricoshade - Get It Together - Love...Another 4 Letter Word (Various Artists) - 2011 VELBEN - SEND U - CREATIVE FLOWZ - 2010 T.R.A.C. - Step Rite On In (feat Baron aka Drue Davis) - The Network (produced by Marc Mac) - 2011 Tonya Dyson - Find My Way - single - album tbc - 2011
Rhonda Thomas - The Light remix v1.5 orig 2010 - single - 2011 Jef Kearns - I Wanna Be the One (a.k.a. Subliminal remix) - On the Level - 2008 JimiJames - Still In Your Heart - JimiRah's Album - 2011 Kindred The Family Soul - You Got Love (feat. Snoop Dogg) - You Got Love - Single - 2011 Alemay Fernandez - Out of My Head - Out of My Head - 2011 Roy Hamilton - Lazy Hazy Sunday Afternoon - Lazy Hazy Sunday Afternoon - 2011 Joselyn Parker - I S.P.E.A.K. - single canada Black Hist Mnth - 2011 Jae Franklin - Is There Any Love - Always Needed You - 2011 KayJay ft. Nzarean - You Shoulda Neva - Intuition EP - 2011 Heston - Greatest Lover - Warm Human Cold World - 2011 Kyra Climbingbear - What Loves About - Branches: A compilation of Originals & Features - 2010 Dw3 - On The Floor - On The Floor - 2011 Liberty Silver - All In My Mind (Bonus Track) - Groove Symphony - 2010 Malice & Mario Sweet - Mario - Happy 2 Year - 2011 Mycah Chevalier - Back N Forth - Roux's Fantasy - 2008 Nicole Mitchell - Need To Know - No Suicide - Be Aware, Show You Care Project - 2010 Samantha Cardwell - The Way You Love Me - The Way You Love Me - 2010 Teedra Moses - I Adore U - Single - 2011 Tonya Dyson - Find My Way (re-released 2009) - single available on Amazon New album TBC - 2010 Dave Young - Starting To Love You - Promo - 2010 Algebra - I Aint No Joke - Single - 2011 J. Tait - Think It Over (feat. Magestik Legend) - Things On My Mind Ep Pt.1 - 2009 Dilys - What I Want (Without Rap) - What I Want (Without Rap) - 2011 PVD & Cymarshall Law - the One - The One (Sounds Like This Bonus Track) - 2011 Tenille - Winner - Winner - 2011 Elliot Luv - Gangsta Love - Soulcial Engineering - 2011 Teri Tobin - Free - Free - 2011 Earl Dwayne - Above The Water - Nflow - 2011 Slakah The Beatchild - Down - Something Forever - 2010 Mavin Ft Mary - Mavin Ft Mary - Aint That Peculiar - OND Remix -Unreleased - 2011 Herb Middleton rec. Interview - Via Skype Skype Part 1 - 2nd part To Be Aired next week - 2011 Competition - How Tall is Big Herb? - (answer: 6 foot 2 ins) - Jazmine Sullivan - Take Over You - Single - 2011 Shauntae Shaun Ali" Suttle" - Authentic Love - Enough is Enough EP Soundtrack - 2011 Marsha Ambrosius - Butterflies - Late Nights And Early Mornings - 2011 CHRiS ROuSE - MEANT 4 ME - AROuSAL(i)The ARRiVAL - 2010
Detroit soul singer Velben knows every direction to the human heart. The music on his debut EP Formless operates like an elite GPS navigational system through the beautiful but uncertain terrain of love and life. One would expect no less from a man who – as a youngster – spent countless hours listening to Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson and Prince. The grooves of these legends prompted Velben to lift his own voice and sing in an effort to escape the harsh realities of his dysfunctional home. The harmonious melodies that emerged from the youngster carried him far outside of the restrictive boundaries of his home, and past the stereotypical limitations of his east-side Detroit neighborhood. An industry novice at the time, Velben’s arduous odyssey kept him well acquainted with the tribulations of a struggling artist. Sidelined by the hardships of this quest, he sought refuge in the spoken-word/poetry scene where he garnered a profound talent for songwriting. Still music never left his mind.
A chance encounter with the instrumental track “Walking Large” by The Roots prompted his musical cultivation process, sewing the seeds for Velben’s own unique style to emerge and peek through the gray clouds. The track had a playful but soulful vibe that he loved, and that vibe compelled him to dig out some previously written poetry and literally go with the flow. He eventually established a creative relationship with two of hip hops elite: Jneiro Jarel and Baatin of Slum Village, and the rest is history. Not able to locate producers to cultivate his sound Velben discovered Jaydee and The roots instrumentals and used them as a blueprint. Velben explains, “I fell in love with their sound and shaped my style from these instrumentals, but I write all of my own material because I think I'm really good at being me. My music is definitely who I am.”
Breakin' DA' Artist - Southern Hotel, Mauldeth Road West, Chorlton, Manchester M21 7SP 5th March - Live Neo-Soul & Hip-Hop With Special Perforance from Canada - AKA Subliminal! + the beautiful voice of Juliette & The UK U-Turn Family + 3 DJs. The Southern Hotel, Mauldeth Road West, Doors open 8.30pm Finishes 3am Tickets on sale now @ ticketline.co.uk Chorlton. M21 7SP
Friday, 18 February 2011
MARCELL: Marcell Unplugged - Live @ the Senator http://cdbaby.com/cd/marcell
1 - Can't Wait Live 2 - Wish You Were Here Live 3 - You Saved Me Live 4 - Seed You Water Live 5 - All I Know Live 6 - Greatest Love Live 7 - Greatest Love-The Vibe Live 8 - Scared To Love You Live 9 - Symbols Live
This is the most awarded Independent Soul artist to come out of Baltimore to date. What's so impressive is most of Marcell's successes have come from good old fashion hard work. He's style was hard for local promoters and industry agents to embrace the first few years of his career so Marcell began to promoted himself. He built an email base of thousands, one hand shake at a time. He began designing everything from his website to his album covers. He developed his own “luck”. After a few major regional venues began to have consistent filled seats through the labor of Marcell and a handful of his believers and supporters it was clear his vision and drive was making him a movement.
Whispers about Marcell are getting louder daily as promoters and booking agents are starting to view him as a brand and a force to recognize. It's hard to research regional artists in the Tri-state without seeing articles, e-flyers or newsletters about Marcell and his long time band of musicians "the Truth". He is one of the few artists that draws people to hear him rather than the usual "soul" performances where singers gather crowds to hear the cool standards from the great entertainers of yesterday. Audiences are showing up in hundreds and sometimes thousands to hear what Marcell has to say through his own soul. His performances are known to be more of an experience rather just a show, ladies and gentlemen...Marcell. (Source: CD Baby)
My Opinion: Fantastic album! Love the live performances, well worth a purchase!
Celebrating the birthday of DJ Niceness (Neo2Soul promotions) and the launch of BREAKIN DA ARTISTS, a live music event to show case independent vocalists and musicians with performances from aka SUBLIMINAL (Toronto) and U Turn Family artists. There’s free Mix CD give aways on the night, Raffle-Photo with the artists + autographed albums and DJ support from DJ Niceness (Neo2Soul Promotions), Stevie4real (Breakfast Soul Beats show) and Chris Crates (Radio Meltdown)
Music on the night: Neo/Alternative soul/ Jazz / Studio one/Roots Rockers Reggae. Somethin for all . Early bird Tickets £10:00 before Feb 19th and £12:50 after. The Southern Hotel, Manchester, M21 7SP Ticketline:HERE
Their talent, skills and experience have made our lives, our work, and our communities better.
They are members of the black diaspora.
Across the country, unions are made stronger by stewards, occupational health and safety representatives, collective bargaining negotiators, facilitators, staff and leaders who are also members of the black community.
Their contributions, skills, and experience make us all stronger.
February is Black History Month and the United Nations has announced 2011 to be the International Year of African Ancestry – both important moments for the labour movement to commemorate and honour the contributions of this part of our movement.
Individuals like Bromley Armstrong who left Jamaica in 1947 and made Canada his home, deserve to be recognized this month.
Bromley was a committed union activist who fought to improve conditions for workers. His contributions helped to bring about legislation in the 1950’s designed to end discrimination against blacks.
Bromley’s legacy continues today with many more black trade unionists working in every sector of the economy, in every community across the country striving to improve our working conditions and make our communities healthier, stronger, more inclusive and just for all.
Globally, members of the black diaspora struggle for democracy and empowerment in the Ivory Coast and in Sudan. Others courageously and persistently rebuild their country in Haiti. And everywhere, workers join with this community to end economic apartheid.
The Canadian Labour Congress celebrates Black History Month and this important year for those of African ancestry.
This is the full interview I held in Manchester with Sean Mauricette AKA Subliminal late last year.
I hope you enjoy this in its entirety.
AKA Subliminal comes to Manchester on 5th March for a night of Beat Box, Rapping & spoken word along side artists the UK U turn Family, including the wonderful voice of Juliette. Please see the adverts for this event on my Blog and Facebook.
I have to say that I have never met such a great guy with so many amazing qualities. The man is so gifted musicaly and poetically. Sub is the geniuine article, the "real deal!" and just a wonderful human being. It was an honour to meet him and I feel privalleged to hear him call me a friend. I wish hm a world of continued success!
Stevie4reals BreakfastBeats Show @PeaceFm 90.1 on 5th Feb. 2011:
Lenny Hamilton Jr - So Good To Me - WAYOUT: Portfolio Vol. 1 - 2010 Ande' - Let It Happen - Let It Happen - 2011 Joonie - Delilah - Acoustic Love - 2010 Laura Luke - Beautiful Mistake - Single Mother Chronicles - 2010 Michaux (Mica Soul) - What's Going On - What's Going On...Still... - 2010 Samantha Cardwell - The Way You Love Me - The Way You Love Me - 2010 Delasha - All My Life - Delasha - E.P. Collectible - 2010 DaChonne Nicole - Tomorrow - Livin' My Life - 2010 Aaron Camper - Second Thought feat Brandy - Welcome to My World- The Mixtape - 2011 Breeze - Gravity - The Sound of Breeze - 2011 Da Liberal Soul - Her Pain - Her Pain - 2011 Kyra Climbingbear - What Loves About - Branches: A compilation of Originals & Features - 2010 Elliot Luv - Run & Hide - Single - 2010 Emily King - Down - East Side Story - Drop Date TBC - 2011 Dw3 - I Got You (Feat. Gerald Albright) - On The Floor - 2011 Egheosa - Feels So Good - Feels So Good - 2011 Mama's Gun - Let's Find A Way (DJ Mitsu The Beats Remix) - Routes To Riches - 2009 Dilys - What I Want (Without Rap) - What I Want (Without Rap) - 2011 Mara Hruby - Send it On - From Her Eyes(Mastered) - 2011 Dw3 - On The Floor - On The Floor - 2011 Laura Luke - Petty Reasons (feat. Jaafar) - Single Mother Chronicles - 2010 Vimel - Slide - Euphoric - 2010 Kelly Price feat. Stokley - Not My Daddy - Kelly - 2011 Emmanuel Lewis - always yours - untitied - 2010 Stephanie Mills - Whatcha gonna do with my lovin - Watcha gonna do with my lovin - 1979 Liberty Silver - All In My Mind (Bonus Track) - Groove Symphony - 2010 Cradle Orchestra - Married to the Game feat. Cl Smooth & Jean Curley - Tarnscended Elements - 2010 Lisa Michelle - Love You Better - Rebound - 2011 CHRiS ROuSE - MEANT 4 ME - AROuSAL(i)The ARRiVAL - 2010 Joonie - So Fly - Acoustic Love - 2010 Marvin Gaye - Ain't That Peculiar (SoulP & Neil Tomo's Summer Madness Mix) - promo mix - 2010 Mary J. Blige - Come Go With Me - Unreleased promo - 2000 Mint Condition - Caught My Eye - Caught My Eye (radio single) - 2011 Rhonda Thomas - The Light remix v1.5 orig 2010 - single - 2011 Slakah The Beatchild - Down - Something Forever - 2010 Dessy Di Lauro - Why U Raggin'? - Why U Raggin'? - 2010 Musiq Soulchild Feat. Swizz Beatz - Anything (Clean) - MonsterMondays - 2011 Carmen Liana - Luv Me 4 Ever - Luv Me 4 Ever - 2009 Reel People feat. Tony Momrelle - Tell Me Why - Golden Lady - 2011 Russoul - Love & Lust - People Need Love - 2010 Joselyn Parker (Herb Middltn) - I S.P.E.A.K. - Read My Magazine - Drop Date TBC - 2011 Nicole Michell - Need To Know - No Suicide - Be Aware, Show You Care Project - 2010 Lisa Zure Ft. Jon Pecos] - Sweet Fruit (Remix 2.1) - single cd baby - 2010 Rahsaan Patterson - Stop Breaking My Heart - Soul Lounge 6: 40 Soulful Grooves - 2009 24 Carat Black - The Best Of Good Love Gone - Gone: The Promises Of Yesterday - 2009
Tuesday, 8 February 2011
Breaking DA' Artist With Talent From Canada & The UK
Guest artists A.K.A. Subliminal and The U Turn Project Family Supporting DJ's : DJ Niceness, Chris Crates & Stevie4real
BREAKIN DA ARTIST will be a place where artists can jam with people It also acts as an springboard to expose up and coming independent and unsigned , musicians, poets, producers, & people in general, positively involved in Urban Music Culture. We are here to provide the avenues for underground independent and unsigned artists to have their music heard and connect with their fans. We need to come together and support this cause. Let us show them that we are supporters of REAL music, come and make a difference, and turn this industry around!!!
“Geo”, short for George, hails from a very musically talented family. His mother is the Director of Music for her church; his sister is the extremely talented Cheryl Lynn, who is most noted for her hit “Got To Be Real”. His other sister has sung with various notable artists, including Jennifer Holiday. “Geo” has been fortunate to experience up close and personal, the musical expertise of some of the world’s greatest composers, producers and musicians (i.e. Cheryl Lynn, Luther Vandross, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Ray Parker Jr., Whitney Houston, The Whispers and many more).
He began his musical development at a very early age, and has progressed into quite an accomplished musician. While much of his experience comes from offering his gifts in church, he has been able to cultivate his gospel roots into a very neo-soul style of music. His music is flavorful, meaningful and passionate. When you listen to “Geo’s” music, you can hear him in each selection. It’s as if the notes and words are extensions of his very soul. “Geo” would say that he just wants to share with others, the music that brings him so much joy to create. It’s his gift to those who need the right music, for the right situation. After 20 years of supporting others musically and vocally, he produced his first praise and worship CD in 2007. Now four years later he has completed his latest 17 song CD project entitled, “Another Side of Me”. This CD has both vocal and instrumental selections. Its genre is Light Jazz, R&B and Hip-Hop, which he affectionately calls Jazz & B-Hop. “Geo” is married with 3 lovely children, and resides in the DC area.(Source: CD Baby)
Track List:
1 - Long Ago 2 - Strangher 3 - Mystery 4 - My Love 5 - Shallah 6 - Interlude 7 - Love Wire 8 - Just Like That 9 - Whitney 10 - Mello 11 - Walk Away 12 - Traffic 13 - Coastal 14 - Love Is On The Rize 15 - Shake Yo Bootay 16 - I love You 17 - A Somber Moment
Musician, Mother, Singer, Survivor…Laura Luke is far from your average entertainer. She’s a 21st century force to be reckoned with that packs the powerful punch of jazz, pop and hip hop laced with lyrical legitimacy only birthed from the joys and struggles of life.
Hailing from Birmingham, Alabama, Laura Luke (born Laura Mae Coleman), penned her first poetic prose at age six and discovered her talent for writing and singing at age eight. She grew up singing in churches around the state with her sisters as part of their gospel group known as “Holiness is Right”. It was during this time that the budding musician also honed her passion for trumpet playing, jazz and the spotlight with the late Jothan Callins as a part of the legendary Birmingham Youth Jazz Ensemble. “Mr. Callins was so special, so important to the young musicians in our community. He taught me my first vocal jazz tune "Solitude" and pushed me out in front of the band,” said Laura.
Laura Luke's budding romance with jazz and newfound confidence set the stage for her emergence as a lead vocalist. As with most artists, as she matured, so did the subject matter of Laura Luke’s music. In 2003, Laura decided to write music that fit her lifestyle as an adult. She explains, "I loved God deeply and still do, but it‘s important for me to live and write truthfully. I needed to write about my life and the human emotions of the average person."
After six years of marriage, childbirth, divorce, and job loss Luke had a story to tell and the right voice to tell it. Laura’s heavily anticipated debut album “Single Mother Chronicles” was released in 2010. With R&B singles like "Beautiful Mistake" and "Extra Extra" the message of joy, struggle, and triumph found on “Single Mother Chronicles” is appreciated by mothers and appealing to many. “I have done what no other artist before me has done in dedicating my entire debut album to the single mother. My mission is to use my music to motivate the masses to understand the needs of the single mother,” said Laura Luke.
Laura Luke dazzles crowds regularly at various venues and events. She has also opened for international artists Donnell Jones & Julie Dexter. "Single Mother Chronicles", dubbed "pop jazz", is NOW AVAILABLE at www.LauraLukeMusic.com and iTunes worldwide.
"This record makes me feel like Michaux and the band are in my living room giving me a private concert, a very intimate experience"
"Michaux truly makes me believe in what hes saying. His voice speaks to me and the message is right on time"
Like all of us, Michaux has been affected by what's going on in the world today. His new record, "Whats Going On ... Still ..." deals with all the same issues Marvin did 39 years ago. Interestingly, not much has changed. We still have perpetuating wars, lack of jobs, deadly oil spills, poverty all over the world and this makes us all want to holler, or at least it should.
This music was recorded LIVE in England using vintage microphones and analog tape. No retakes, no computer magic here. This is real musicians playing together the way musicians used to play together before digital and computers. Many years ago, musicians and singers played and sang together in a room all at the same time and the engineer captured these moments and froze them in time. These are some of your favorite Soul and Jazz records from the 60s and 70s. (Source: CD Baby)
This is the Michaux experience. Enjoy!
1. God Is Love 2. Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) 3. Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler) 4. What's Going On 5. What's Happening Brother 6. Do You Want To Know?
I played "God is love" on Saturday's show - 29th Jan. 2011. (a great remake). Track 1. runs into the second track, "Mercy Mercy Me
Joni’s sophomore release explores new textures and flits easily from sparse, open arrangements to densely layered ones which keeps listeners engaged. In the ways the fans expect, she makes Motown, funk, smooth, jazz, pop, and even a little rock feel at home side by side. She readily offers up her own imperfections, hopes, and fears and asserts that change and personal revolution are healthy, necessary even.
“NehRita’s music is classy, soulful, and sexy. She radiates the same on stage, engaging audiences with her stunning vocal work and originals”. – Carrie Humphries, Echo Magazine
“About 30 seconds into “A Fine Time” (debut release), I was pretty damned confident that Joni NehRita was the real deal.” – Addi Steward, Now Magazine (Source: CD Baby)
Naseem Murakami, stage name Breeze, derived from the term “Gentle Cool Breeze” which is the Arabic translation of her birth name, was born in Japan where she grew up in Tokyo. Exhibiting a love and talent for music at a very early age, Naseem’s Mother describes “When she was a toddler she was always singing and dancing in front of the TV as she watched star’s performing. We knew right away that we had a very talented daughter”.
Developing her passion for music as a young child, Breeze took classical piano lessons and was the keyboard player and a lead singer in her High School Band. She later worked as a professional singer and performer doing cover songs at night clubs. She also had her own band which performed at various venues and University festivals in Japan. In 1997 she decided it was time to take a serious step in her already-successful musical career when she moved to the United States taking her career determination and enormous talents with her. She currently resides and performs out of Southern California.
Once in the US, Breeze continued writing and performing her own brand of stylish Soul, R&B, and Jazz. Collaborating with many local artists and musicians along the way, they performed a wide variety of showcases and venues from Los Angeles to New York. She also caught the attention of a few established major record producers who wound up co-producing a lot of her demos.
Breeze cites many artists who have influenced her musical style and is quick to point out Anita Baker as her biggest influence since high school. Others include Dee Dee Bridge, Water, Ella Fitzgerald, George Benson, Earth Wind & Fire, Incognito, Tania Maria, Maxwell, Kem, Jill Scott and Erykah Badu. In the “Sounds Like” category, “Sade” is the overwhelming pick amongst her fans. When asked if her music comes from within or from what she observes around her, Breeze had no hesitation with her reply; “I believe that I’m just a receiver and a transmitter receiving inspiration from above. It's always a divine experience when it starts flowing into and out of me”.
In 2009 Breeze was discovered by Smooth Jazz artist, a French guitarist U-Nam who‘s known by his #1 hit single “Street Life”. Breeze was invited as a guest performer on U-Nam’s shows performing along with the world class musicians here in Southern California. Most recently in 2010 her TV appearance on Wake Up! TV. Breeze performed live with her band and it is currently airing on Transit TV, Los Angeles and Pasadena Community Network, Pasadena, CA.
This young talented artist’s one desire as a live performer and recording artist is her sincere wish to make her audience feel uplifted, inspired and just plain old feeling-good after leaving a “Breeze” performance. Apparently DJ Big Cal of Radio station WGBB 1240 AM in Long Island, New York agrees that her music does just that -- having given this opulent young artist the honor of airplay on his popular local radio show.
When asked if she could have increasing commercial success and still retain her artistic integrity, Breeze states, “Being true to my self is very important to me and something that I will not give up -- even if I am missing out on some huge opportunity”.
Aside from being a very talented singer/songwriter and live performer, Breeze’s other passion is in humanitarian missions which include active involvement and volunteering in the local and international communities. She continues to envision with her philanthropic mission through her music. (source: CD Baby)
1. Gravity 2. Good Lovin' 3. By Myself 4. I Want Your Love
Tracks that stand out for me are "Gravity" and "I Want Your Love"
This album introduces a new twenty-two year old artist named Mara Hruby from Oakland, CA. She arrived on the scene at the start of 2010, playing shows throughout the Bay Area, and is releasing her debut EP, From Her Eyes. Mara has worked on this album for the past nine months; she has applied her multi-talented dedication to recording, arranging, and engineering her own work. She has performed on stage, dancing and backing other artists in the Bay Area; unconsciously preparing herself for this path. She has chosen to speak through music in order to connect with those of us who love music.
During an interview with a local entertainment magazine, Mara was asked to describe her sound: “My sound/style comes from what I have experienced in life. I feel my sound is organic, distinct, melodic, eclectic, and filled with sensitivity. To say the least, I’d call my music a melodic melting pot.”
The current practice of recording “covers” of well known music by well loved artists, has led to some very creatively unique results. The surprise breakthrough of Les Nubians’ version of Sade's mellow and soulful ballad, "The Sweetest Taboo," helped their American debut album, Princesses Nubiennes, to achieve a higher position on the Billboard charts than any other French-language album had in the previous decade.
Mara Hruby is a mesmerizing artist who performs on stage with poise and grace. You will be surprised to discover how naturally her music will enter your heart.
Personnel: Aaron Hardin – Piano, Rhodes, Keys; Dennis Turner – Synth Bass, Bass; JBIII – Drum Program, Acoustic Guitar, Vocoder, Effects; Jeremy Most – Bass, Vocoder; Hadyn Blatt – Synth Bass, Aux; Mara Hruby – Vocals, Accordion; Mike Frost – Bass, Keys, Guitar; Nate Mercereau – Electric Guitar, Guitar; Toure Duncan – Drums credits released 30 November 2010 marahruby.tumblr.com All songs mastered by Curtis Macdonald for CMACSOUNDS special thanks to Phantom Lover for additional mastering Album cover artwork by Mara Hruby and Steelee Faltis
Legal Download Via Bandcamp: DOWNLOAD HERE: limelinx.com/files/9b359f7a1f9dcd0be7e9719ed33ac946