COLOR ME AFRICA

Tribal prints represent culture, life, and ethnicity. The vibes, colors, and detail all transcend a certain vibe that is truly inspiring. There is a voice that comes through much deeper than the clothing, itself. I see Africa, I hear Africa, and I feel Africa.

The world needs more Africa. Uplifted much

VIA |Times Style & Design

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ACAPELLA

If  your no stranger to Sound On Mars, then you know we love a live  image.  We love how it captures the raw essence of the artist and is really emblematic of bravery. When speaking of bravery, I can’t help but speak of Kelis. She is not just a singer and artist, she’s hope and pride.

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INTRIGUE| Pholoso Selebogo

Intrigue is defined as the  curiosity or interest of by unusual, new, or otherwise fascinating or compelling qualities. It separates those individuals whom blend in and those that stand out. Pholoso Selebolgo breaks the mold of what it means to be a stylist.  She is an undeniable artist and visionary. As a creative force in the ever-changing and competitive world of fashion, Pholoso has made a name for herself in the European fashion circuit.

From her birthplace, Kroonstad, South Africa,  to where she now calls home, Antwerp, Belgium, this woman lives a life many would dream of. While her portfolio stands alone as a solid contribution to fashion, it is Pholoso herself who captivates with her style, allures with her entrancing personality, and above all intrigues…

There would be no better person to introduce our new feature.

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KILLERS. LASERS. PAPERS.

Though nearly three months old, the more and more that I listen to Janelle Monaé‘s “Killers, Lasers & Papers” set at this year’s SXSW festival, the more I am reminded that Ms. Monaé is nothing short of a legend of tomorrow.

Even though it is an audio recording, her vivacious spirit still translates with her brilliant live interpretations ,impressive vocals and spellbinding accompanying band. The performances of “Smile,” “Mushrooms and Roses,” and “Cold War” will leave you breathless. 

In short, this special recording is a must-listen for all of us. In 2011, we don’t receive the level of originality, color and imagination from any other artist but Janelle. No gimmicks or watering down. Just real music.

Download Here

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JUST IN TIME

Out of the long list of reasons for why I love Erykah Badu, the first and most significant one would be the fact that her soul is present in anything she creates. The songs she writes, the music she records and the videos that she films are not created herself for the approval or entertainment of others, but for the  expression of her soul. 

Take the video for the unforgettable “Out of Mind, Just In Time.” Though simplistic in nature, its evocative, beautiful and compassionate–undeniably Badu. 

Still in love with this song…

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VIDEO| MeLo-X On The MixDown

It’s no secret that we are MeLo-X fans over here. His mixtape,  More Merch, has been on replay ever since I downloaded it. Not just for his enticing lyricism, but for the unique melting pot of genres that define the sound of his music. 

But instead of me rambling on and on about my appreciation for MeLo’s works, check out this interview with the artist himself. Speaking about the influences of his early life and inspiration behind his music, the interview provides strong insight into who MeLo-X truly is. Once you watch, expect instant fandom.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE INTERVIEW!

And if you haven’t already, click here to DOWNLOAD “More Merch”…

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Striving For Perfection

When I saw this photo, I was reminded not only that its time to shave, but that fashion is an industry built upon “perfection.” While many find the negative in that, I have found the positive. Be it the perfect glam, alternative, grunge, or street look, fashion motivates people to be the “perfect”  individual that they are. So as the summer is a coming, and the sun is ever-blazing, remember that our flaws and character define who we are hence…perfection.

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REAL LOVE

None of us will forget that day that we were blessed with the arrival of Alicia Keys. Instantly, we became enamored by the raspy, multi-talented diamond-in-the-rough who delivered truthful, R&B-laced odes to life and love. Though she has yet to return to the greatness of her first two albums, AK has flourished into one of the day’s rarest treasures, with undying artistry and a vivacious connection to music.

As we inch closer and closer to the release of her next album, one can only hope that it will evoke the same beauty as this photo:  striking, honest, raw and human. Characteristics that have come to define the music created by the woman we know as Ms. Alicia Keys.

Taken from her appearance in the latest issue of W

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VIDEO|Beyonce- Run The World (Girls)

The moment has finally come. The Girl Who Rules the World is back with a vengeance. Nothing says that  more than a high budget, battle themed video.

To often artists of Beyonce’s caliber release visuals that are extremely predictable, over-hyped, and non-refreshing leaving much to be desired. None of which is the case with the singers latest offering. There was fashion, drama, glamour, and most of all that undeniable execution and delivery  Beyonce has become known for.

For a nearly flawless visual, the choreography proved to be its only weakness.  After the phenomena that was “Single Ladies “  , Beyonce  proved she is capable of pulling of extremely intricate and complex choreography. None of which was present. That said Beyonce is still beyonce…

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TURNING TABLES

These photos are absolutely out of this world. Adele’s talent is absolutely out of this world. Too often girls of different shapes and sizes are photographed in a stereotypical way that doesn’t showcase their true  beauty. Adele is not only immensely talented, she’s even more beautiful.

I totally have a crush…

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GOLD RUSH

Philly is  not often thought of as a mecca of creativity and innovation. Yet, Philly  has given birth to some of the most creative and innovative artist. Among them being Santigold. She stands tall as an artist who transcends  creativity and innovation.

A.Jamar still has her debut LP on heavy rotation.

We love her & we miss her dearly…

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Lauryn Hill Honors Bob Marley

The incomparable Lauryn Hill returned to TV screens to set fire to the rain  and indeed she did. Ms. Hill performed a stunning tribute to Bob Marley celebrating  his life and legacy. Press play and let the words of “Chances Are”and “Could You Be Loved” take you to away.

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WHOLY HOLY

When Marvin Gaye creates a song, its a testament to his artistic genius and unyielding hope for a better tomorrow. When Aretha Franklin takes that same song and record it, it is then re-created into something that much greater.

Fast-forward to 2010, none other than John Legend took that same song and made it a little more modern while paying homage to Marvin Gaye and Aretha Franklin. I have listened to this song 118 times and counting (all versions). It’s medicine, its prayer, its power.

Aretha Franklin’s  version is all that you imagine it to be. It is complete nirvana.

Wait no longer,  eargasms await you…

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S.O.M. INTERVIEW | Mara Hruby- “Soul Of A Gem”

Artistry is defined as unrelenting talent, unparalleled vision, and a statement so compelling, that it is worthy of all acclaim and notoriety. Mara Hruby is a shining example of that of and much more. With just the release of a seven-track EP, From Her Eyes, she has garnered worldwide attention. From her signature look to her distinctive sound, Hruby is an artist who shows the world that beauty and artistry can exist one in the same, age does not label wisdom, and style does not contradict message.

As the world anticipates the debut album from one of the most refreshing voices in music, Sound On Mars is thrilled to share Mara Hruby’s entrance to musical greatness.

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AMERYKAHN PROMISE

“As Erykah Badu, it has nothing to do with me, the way I look, my hair wrap, my style, it’s about you and what you feel for my music. If I can make you feel like the way that people who influenced me made me feel, that’s completion”

such an inspiring individual …job well done Ms. Badu

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