Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Put On Yo' Record: Horace Edwards

Ace Edwards: Singer, Song Writer, Model, Actor


Why is music important to you?
Music is the soundtrack to life. It is one of the only simple pleasures left in the world. All it takes is a pair of ears and some music to escape, rejuvenate, be inspired, and evoke and endless array of emotions. Writing and listening to music has always been a form of therapy for me, allowing me to expresses myself when I’m otherwise at a loss for words. I also admire music’s ability to bring people together. In a world with so many different types of people/personalities, it’s remarkable how music creates an environment where for a moment in time we are all on one accord and experiencing that story the artist or musician has created.
Favorite Song and Why? 
My favorite song is Musiq Soulchild’s “Just Friends (Sunny)”. I remember hearing it for the first time and feeling strangely attached to the song, as if I had written it myself even though I wasn’t going through the situation he was talking about. It’s my favorite song to sing in the car, in the shower, at an open mic night, or wherever I can; and it makes me feel good every single time I hear it.
Favorite musician and why?
While most would hesitate to call her a true “musician”, I think Beyonce’s vocal ability, creative talent, and her ear for arrangement and harmonies makes her a deserving candidate for the title. In a time where few artist physically play real instruments, let’s just call her the new age musician. So often I feel like her image and the product she has created as business woman overshadows the fact that she has one of the best vocal gifts we have seen in a long time. Her tone and control is that of a classically trained singer with a southern twist, and truly one of a kind. Her live performances go without saying, and I find myself constantly reminding people that the entertainment aspect of Beyonce’s career is a big bonus, but she could entertain me thoroughly with just a stool and a microphone. 
Top 5 Albums...
I couldn’t make a list of the greatest albums of All Time without mentioning “Thriller”, “All Eyez on Me”, “The Bodyguard Soundtrack”, or “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill”….but if I were stranded on an island today, I would have to have an mp3 player pre loaded with:
1. Beyonce – B’Day (Deluxe Edition)

2. Lil Kim – La Bella Mafia
3. Fantasia – Back to Me
4. Kanye West - Graduation

5. Maroon 5 – Songs About Jane 
How do you keep real music alive?

I think the only way we can keep real music alive is the support real artist. Everything that sucks about the music industry now is our fault as consumers. You get what you pay for -- one way or another. You may think it’s cool to download illegal music, but when your favorite artist only sells 2 records in a week and gets dropped from their label, we pay the ultimate price. When I find an artist that is talented (commercial or otherwise) I make sure to go cop their album and buy a ticket to their show when they come to town. I also try to maintain a little of the classic old school vibe in my own music.

Jam of the Day: Top 3 Request from Followers!



This week you get to choose the jam of the day, each day! I will post the top 3 request, here ya go!

**Shout out to those who made these request... to make your request for tomorrow tweet me @TheReelChill, @PutYoRecordsOn, or inbox me on facebook (Chasitie R. Lindsay)


Aretha Franklin- A Rose Is Still A Rose


Karen White- Superwoman


Shalamar- For The Lover In You




Show Time Favorites: Al Green (live)


Can't say I've ever seen Al Green perform live and in person, but judging from this brotha's performances on Soul Train I'm sure his shows were quite a treat! Give it up for Al Green y'all :)

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Double Play: "DayDreaming"



VS.









This song was originally recorded by the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, then later remade by Tamia!
Which version is the best?


Who Sampled Me? "Is That Enough"



Who sampled this Marvin Gaye song, "Is That Enough" from the album Here, My Dear?
**hint: They have an academy award!



Put On Yo' Record: Eboni Knight

Eboni Knight: Creator of I.D.K Productions

why is music important to you?

Music is important because it allows you the opportunity to visit countries you've never been to and speak languages you'd other wise never be able to speak. Its the only thing, outside of food, that truly brings people together regardless of your background. And lets not forget that its people who play an instrument that can think with both sides of their brains thus making them a smarter individual. 
favorite song and why? 

I hate to be the one to say it but i dont have a favorite song, It all depends on the genre of music. But right now im listening to a lot of Chaka Khan not the popular stuff but her jazz mix. 
favorite musician and why?
MJ- Have you heard him? the boy(though not the best singer) has perfect pitch. 
Erykah Badu- Her metaphors are unique and so is her voice.
Lauryn Hill- She is not afraid to stir people up and make them think.
Floetry - Damn i hate the broke up. Two of my favorite things are music and poetry,how could you not like them?
Chaka Khan- Her voice is not to be defined.
Earth Wind and Fire- What more can you say about the elements?
Chris Botti- Soulful white guy that knows his music. He makes his horn really sing. 
Man! could keep going but thats already more than 5, I love each person because they've created their own sound and they dare to push the limits to what people define as popular music. 
top 5 albums...
To Love again
Floetic
Thriller
Miseducation of Lauryn hill
Earth Wind and Fire Greatest Hits
Fourplay Live 
how do you keep real music alive?
The only way I know how, by promoting it and supporting it. 

-EBONI KNIGHT

Jam of the Day: Top 3 Request from Followers!



This week you get to choose the jam of the day, each day! I will post the top 3 request, here ya go!

**Shout out to those who made these request... to make your request for tomorrow tweet me @TheReelChill or inbox me on facebook (Chasitie Hill)

Toni Braxton- Just Be A Man About It


Common ft. Mary J. Blige - Come Close


Tina Turner & Cher- Shame Shame Shame

Monday, February 28, 2011

YouTube Covers: Brandy

I saw this a long time ago before this blog was created, and recently came across it again so I had to post! Brandy is a beast!!! That's all I have to say about that...

See for yourself as she sings a Sam Cooke classic!

Soundtrack Battle: Boomerang or Waiting to Exhale





















As I flipped back and forth to Academy Awards last night, I began to think about movies and the soundtracks that go with them. The top two soundtracks in my opinion are Boomerang and Waiting To Exhale, but which is number 1? I could not decide...maybe you could help me figure this out... or even bring to my attention other great movie soundtracks. The battle begins!

Take the poll and/or comment to post your vote...

Here are some songs from both to refresh your memory:

Waiting to Exhale



Boomerang




Double Play: "Georgy Porgy"

Georgy Porgy was originally recorded by ToTo in 1978, then re-recorded by Eric Benet and Faith Evans.
Who sang it best?



Black History Spotlight: Fisk Jubilee Singers


CLICK HERE to learn more about the history of the Fisk Jubilee Singers!


Jam of the Day: Al Green ft. John Legend- Stay With Me (By the Sea)

Put On Yo' Record: Alicia Brown Young


Why is music important to you?

Music is important to me because it is an art form that transcends culture, age, religion, gender and simply can make a bad day great. I can hear a song and suddenly I am transported to a time in my life that reminds me of the good and the bad...Music truly is universal and I cannot imagine life without it.
Favorite Song...

My favorite song is by Luther Vandross, "A House is not a Home"...this song was written many years ago, however Luther re-recorded it in 1980. Think about it...A House really isn't a home...it is only a building but it's those who dwell there that changes it into a home...the song represents a time when music was so real and romantic and the words would leave you reminiscing hours later.
Favorite Musician...

George Benson....true artist...vocals and musician are real. That's real music he makes.
Top 5 albums: 
Michael Jackson.. Off the Wall; Denise Williams, Niecy; Earth Wind and Fire...That's the Way of the World; Be Be and Ce Ce Winans...Addictive Love; Stevie Wonder...Songs in the Key of Life 
How do you keep real music alive?
To keep real music alive we must always expose the younger generation to artist like Michael Jackson, Cameo, Luther, Aretha, Mahalia, Stevie, Nat King Cole, The Delfonics, The Temptations, The Whispers, The Mighty Clouds of Joy...they have to know real music has a message. And even when it doesn't have a message the beat and rhythm is so smooth there's a message there and you will find it.

Friday, February 25, 2011

Who Sampled Me? "I Choose You"

Who sampled this 1973 classic from the Willie Hutch LP "The Mack"?


Back 2 HipHop Pick: Ice Cube- Today Was A Good Day

Album Review: Marsha Ambrosius "Late Nights & Early Mornings"



You may remember Marsha from the hip hop soul duo, Floetry but this time she is back with her first new solo project, "Late Nights & Early Mornings" available March 1, 2011. 
With anticipation of her first single to be released, I was very pleased with the heartfelt ballad, "Far Away". 

Any song that has such a beautiful piano tune as this one brings high expectations for this long awaited album.
As soon as I pressed play, the interlude "Anticipation" builds yet even more anticipation to hear whats coming next. If you love the sound of piano like myself, you will see why. The album then proceeds with love ballads such as "With You", in which she describes her sexual desires to be with her man. She manages to turn what should be considered a freaky song into something that sounds romantically innocent (kind of like the Jill Scott effect, lol). The same could be said for her title track, "Late Nights & Early Mornings" but with a Prince sound and twist.
The bitter women's anthem, "Hope She Cheats On You (With A Basketball Player), I found to be more comical than anything. Sure its a great beat and melody, but I can't see myself wanting to play this song often.
The slow grooves continue throughout the album in songs like, "Lose Myself", "Your Hands" and "Chasing Clouds"...all reminiscent of our beloved Floetry.
"Sour Times" and "The Break Up Song" highlight the bad times of relationships, as well as "Tears" which has that old school, Motown, Smokey Robinson feel to it that we all know and love. The album ends finally with a more up-tempo track, but it's yet another version of Michael Jackson's "Butterflies" (which Floetry wrote and already has re-recorded).
Overall, the album was enjoyable for those like myself who love to hear songs about love and relationships, but would be a great disappointment to those expecting the hip hop and up-tempo vibe she had with Floetry. Either way, the album drops March 1, 2011 and I will definitely support this great artist. She has an amazing voice and a great future ahead with the neo-soul crowd.

Show Time Favorites: Janet Jackson (live)


I love going to Janet Jackson concerts! I have been attending her shows since her rhythm nation tour, and have never missed one since...as a little kid even then I was captivated. No, she's not the best singer, however her concerts were a great experience overall!!! From the set design and lights, to the costume changes and don't forget the classic janet dance moves...the atmosphere is so crazy that its easy for anyone to be mesmerized. If you love to be entertained, go see Janet on her next tour...you won't be disappointed.

Check out this performance from Janet....Ms. Jackson if you're nasty, lol

Double Play: "A Piece Of My Love"

This jam was originally recorded by popular new jack swing group, Guy! EnVogue, another popular 90's group re-recorded this slow jam. Which version do you like better?


Jam of the Day: Babyface- Soon As I Get Home


Black History Spotlight: Leontyne Price


CLICK HERE for the biography of Leontyne Price!


Thursday, February 24, 2011

My Top Ten Favorite Songs...today, lol



Show Time Favorites: D'Angelo (live)


I can not WAIT till this brotha comes back on the scene. I saw him in concert for his Voodoo Tour in 99' and till this day it was one of the best shows I've EVER witnessed (and I've been to MANY so that says something, lol). Check out this live performance from D'angelo of  his hit "Lady".

P.S. Did you know, Anthony Hamilton was D'angelo's former back up singer? Listen closely in background and see if you recognize his voice :)




Double Play: "The Closer I Get To You"

This classic love ballad was originally recorded by Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway in 1978, but later remade by Beyonce and Luther Vandross. Both versions are absolutely beautiful, but which one do YOU like the best?


Black History Spotlight: Nat King Cole


CLICK HERE for the biography of Nat King Cole




Jam of the Day: Mary J. Blige - I Can Love You

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

New Video: Raphael Saadiq - Good Man

Check out this new song and video from Raphael Saadiq, Good Man! Top Model runner up, YaYa is featured in the video.


Interesting story line...your thoughts?

Back 2 HipHop Pick: BDP- The Bridge Is Over

Double Play: "Cruisin"

Today's double play is inspired by today's Black History Spotlight, Smokey Robinson! He recorded the song, Cruisin originally and D'Angelo remade it on his album, Brown Sugar.

Who sang it best?


Put On Yo' Record: Dellareece Jones


Why is Music important to you?

Music is an integral part of my life. I wake up and turn on music, its on in my car or when I'm just chilling at home, and I end the day with music. Music can say the things that you can't say. It could also say what you want to say, in the most brilliant ways. There is a song that can portray any feeling that one may have. Music is art, and I can't imagine life without it.
Favorite Song and why? 

I have a lot of favorites, but I will go with "Ribbon in the Sky" by Stevie Wonder. Its the words, and that wonderful piano entrance of the song. Ribbon in the Sky was the first time I was exposed to Stevie. This song just kinda stuck with me, and I would play it over and over and over. I had to declare it as a favorite after that. :-) I want to dance to this at my future wedding reception.
Favorite Musican and why?
Sade! I love her and her music. She is beautiful even in her older age. Many people may not know, but Sade was never trying to be an artist. She filled in for someone and the rest is history. Her voice is like no other. Never to be mistaken for anyone else. Her music, the lyrics and instruments(because Sade does include the band) always portray feelings that I understand. I forgot the term for her voice type its something alto similar to Anita Baker and Toni Braxton. I love that voice in a woman. Its not always about the highest pitch voice. Her music is also very relaxing, mellow, and grooving. :-)
Top 5 Albums...
Love Deluxe Sade
Come Away with Me Norah Jones
Kayne West Graduation
Writings on the Wall Destiny's Child
Evolution of Robin Thicke Robin Thicke
How do you keep real music alive?
I listen to it, and I don't fall for the hype of some of this music today. I know its "cool" to be up to date with the latest artist and the latest song and dance craze, but I am never really moved to buy albums from "artist" who are "art-less". I know they will still make their money, and thats fine Im not hating...but I'm gonna stick with the good music. The ole skool and the new artist who really create art(Esperanza over Beiber). 

Black History Spotlight: Smokey Robinson


CLICK HERE for the biography of Smokey Robinson


Jam of the Day: Lil' Kim ft. Lil' Cease- Crush On You


This was a true party starter in 97' and even now! I will always hop on the dance floor when they jam this!

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Back 2 HipHop Pick: 2pac- Brenda's Got A Baby


"I hear Brenda's got a baby...but Brenda's barely got a brain..."

Who Sampled Me? "Neither One of Us"

Who sampled this 1973 song by Gladys Knight and the Pips?
**hint: she loves her black brotha, lol


Double Play: "If I Was Your Woman"

This song was originally made by the lovely Gladys Knight and the Pips, 1970. Alicia Keys re-made it with a hip hop twist. Which version do YOU think is better?



hmmmm...this is a tough one!

Black History Spotlight: Quincy Jones



An impresario in the broadest and most creative sense of the word, Quincy Jones’ career has encompassed the roles of composer, record producer, artist, film producer, arranger, conductor, instrumentalist, TV producer, record company executive, magazine founder and multi-media entrepreneur. As a master inventor of musical hybrids, he has shuffled pop, soul, hip-hop, jazz, classical, African and Brazilian music into many dazzling fusions, traversing virtually every medium, including records, live performance, movies and television.
Celebrating more than 50 years performing and being involved in music, Quincy’s creative magic has spanned over six decades, beginning with the music of the post-swing era and continuing through today’s high-technology, international multi-media hybrids. In the mid-50’s, he was the first popular conductor-arranger to record with a Fender bass. His theme from the hit TV series Ironside was the first synthesizer-based pop theme song. As the first black composer to be embraced by the Hollywood establishment in the 60’s, he helped refresh movie music with badly needed infusions of jazz and soul. His landmark 1989 album,Back On The Block–named “Album Of The Year” at the 1990 Grammy Awards– brought such legends as Dizzy Gillespie, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan and Miles Davis together with Ice T, Big Daddy Kane and Melle Mel to create the first fusion of the be bop and hip hop musical traditions; while his 1993 recording of the critically acclaimed Miles and Quincy Live At Montreux, featured Quincy conducting Miles Davis’ live performance of the historic Gil Evans arrangements from the Miles Ahead, Porgy and Bess and Sketches of Spain sessions, garnered a Grammy Award for Best Large Jazz Ensemble Performance. As producer and conductor of the historic “We Are The World” recording (the best-selling single of all time) and Michael Jackson’s multi-platinum solo albums, Off The Wall, Badand Thriller (the best selling album of all time, with over 46 million copies sold), Quincy Jones stands as one of the most successful and admired creative artist/executives in the entertainment world.
Visit QuincyJones.com for entire bio


Recap: BET Honors 2011


Last night BET aired their annual BET Honors Awards! Honorees this year included:
Lonnie G. Bunch III - Education Award Recipient
Herbie Hancock - Musical Arts Award Recipient
Cicely Tyson - Theatrical Award Recipient
Jamie Foxx - Entertainment Award Recipient
Iman - Service Award Recipient
Linda Johnson Rice - Media Award Recipient


Peep some of the tributes and performances from last night's show:

Tribute to Iman


Tribute to Linda Johnson Rice


Tribute to Herbie Hancock




Tribute to Cicely Tyson



Tribute to Lonnie G. Bunch


Special Tribute in Memory of Teena Marie


Tribute to Jamie Foxx


Tribute to All Honorees


SN: I have no idea what Trey Songz performance had to do with the show and why he got to close it out, but whatever, lol.

Jam of the Day: Mariah Carey ft. ODB- Fantasy (remix)

Monday, February 21, 2011

New Video: Eric Benet- Never Want To Live Without You

Who Sampled Me? "Make Me Say It Again Girl"

Who sampled this Isley Brothers classic ballad?
** they considered themselves to be thugs...


Back 2 HipHop Pick: D.O.C.- The Formula


**p.s. do you know what sample Dre is using in the background??? :)

Show Time Favorites: Tamia (live)


One of my favorite singers of this time is Tamia! Homegirl does NOT get the props she deserves, but I will ALWAYS be a loyal fan to her. She has an amazing voice and great music (which she doesn't have to shake her tail to showcase). I've seen her live once when she opened for Beyonce and though it was a short set it left a lasting impression. I can not wait till she drops her next album and goes on tour. Check her out in this live performance!


Here's a bonus! (b/c I love her THAT much)

Double Play: "Tell Me If You Still Care"



Who sang it better? The original S.O.S. Band or the young Monica?