The Billboard Music Awards | Cultural & Musical Shifts…

Posted on May 20, 2013 by Soul

After watching last nights Billboard Music Awards I was more confused and enraged than I was entertained and culturally satisfied. It left me with endless questions and concerns. Have our standards reduced to new lows? Why are the stars at the top often the worse of the pack? When did this cultural and musical shift occur?

Nearly every song mimics the current creative (or lack thereof) trends. Nearly every superstar lacks more originality and talent than the last. Between the smoke and mirrors of the music industry and the artist who appeared, there was indeed a huge void. Authenticity, transparency, vulnerability, rawness, and all else that defines artistry was replaced with mindless gimmicks and cooperate manipulation. Watching this award show was yet another reminder that propaganda is real, the musical divide is real, and that it is only getting worse.

That said, when Prince came out and closed the show, it was amazing—the only moment where the show was actually worth watching.

These were my thoughts. What were yours?

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SOM SONG OF THE WEEK | Banks – “Warm Waters”

Posted on May 14, 2013 by Soul

It was just a few weeks ago when spring came upon us. If you’re like me, that means that new playlists are made or refreshed perhaps. Banks newest single, “Warm Waters” is the perfect song to add to your latest musical repertoire. It’s lightly groovy, effortlessly sensual, and leaves you wanting more. The magic of the track is found in its minimal production and heavy vocal presence. I can only equate this with sampling a delectable appetizer and savoring every bite. If you have yet to indulge, wait no longer.

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NEW MUSIC | Marie Dahlstrom – “Perth” [Bon Iver Cover]

Posted on May 13, 2013 by Soul

Before I even begin with this, I must say that Justin Vernon’s second album, Bon Iver, Bon Iver was one of the best musical releases I’ve ever heard. That collection of music is an audio oasis of wonders which speaks to me in endless ways. It’s uniquely raw and beautifully present. Moving on, the thought of another artist covering Bon Iver is nearly criminal. However, I listened to Marie Dahlstorm’s cover of “Perth” with open ears and an open mind. I made the right choice. The cover is simply stunning.

Between the music, which received an added lift with striking horns and her soulfully charged vocals, this is all-around perfection. As she glided through the track she made it all her own and presented the album favorite in such a way that demands respect and of course a listen (multiple listens at that). Covering an artist like Justin Vernon is indeed a risky move and as they say “no risk, no rewards.” This is indeed a moment for Marie Dahlstrom. If you have yet to indulge, the time is now. Listen below.

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NEW VIDEO | ASTR – “Operate”

Posted on May 13, 2013 by Soul

Some songs grip you within seconds.ASTR’s “Operate” is surely one that envelops you immediately. With it’s soaring synthis, blended vocals, and undeniable presence, this is quite the introdocuton to the New York based duo. It’s the perfect fusion of electro/R&B/pop all conjoined together. Sonically charged and wonderfully executed, there is nothing not to love about this. The accompanying video only adds to the all-around goodness. Watch the video and also download the track below.

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UNHEARD | Janelle Monáe – “It’s Not Fair”

Posted on May 9, 2013 by Soul

Janelle Monáe is a genre-bending artist who has climbed the ranks of the music industry on her own creative bearings. However, during the early stages of her musical development, her sound was more soulfully acoustic than genre-less. Within her catalog there are a few hidden gems that have largely went unnoticed, but are surely deserving of attention. “It’s Not Fair” is a stripped back, emotionally tender offering that see’s the songstress yearn for her lovers presence. The track has the ability to pull at even the hardest of heart-strings. While her sound has since been evolved sonically, the minimal instrumentation really allows one to fully drown in the beautiful textures of Ms.Monáe’s voice. Listen below.

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LIVE | KimberlyNichole – “Shade Of Blues”

Posted on May 6, 2013 by Soul

It’s a fact that KimberlyNichole is an undeniable star. With her ferocious stage presence, towering voice, and rock-star bravado, she is one of the industries best kept secrets. As she continues to expand her fan base largely due to her magnetic live shows, it’s only a matter of time before she conquers on a massive scale. While she has been promoting her debut album, The Yellow Brick Journey since 2011, it has been quite a while since some time since we have heard some new material.

That all ended during her latest show at New York’s Rockwood Music Hall where she unveiled a new song,”Shade Of Blues.” Expectedly fused with her heavy rock-soul aesthetic, there is nothing more to say besides press play and prepare for amazement. Also be sure indulge in her performance of “Little Girl New” below.

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NEW VIDEO | Meg Myers – “Heart Heart Head”

Posted on May 6, 2013 by Soul

Meg Myer’s “Heart Heart Head” is my current musical obsession. It’s the perfect “Fucked over by love” type of song. It’s also the type of song that is bound to produce an equally dramatic visual. My assumption was right. The accompanying video is a fully realized depiction of a tormented love story. Between the brilliant cinematography and highly climactic finish, this is all around captivating. If you have yet to indulge in Meg Myers, the time is now.

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THE BEST QUOTES BY LENNY KRAVITZ

Posted on May 6, 2013 by Soul

Who does not love Lenny Kravitz? Not only an insanely talented musician and performer, but also a man of great insight and perspective. If you’re a fan, then you are already familiar with his storied upbringing. If not, then get to google. After conquering the world with his all-inclusive sound, becoming a style icon, and broadening his brand beyond the music domain, Lenny Kravitz has cemented his place in popular culture. While there is an endless list of stereotypes associated with rock-stars, Kravitz has managed to distance himself from such and not be diluted by the fame game. From his views on race relations in America, gender stereotypes, and his highly praised image, Mr. Kravitz does not shy away from speaking his truth.Indulge in this weeks Best Quotes Features below.

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NEW VIDEO | Janelle Monáe- Q.U.E.E.N. [Feat. Erykah Badu]

Posted on May 3, 2013 by Soul

When it was first announced that Janelle Monáe and Erykah Badu would be joining forces for “Q.U.E.E.N.” , there was no way to contain our anticipation. When the song was finally released, it was met with open arms by fans and critics alike. Though it featured less of Badu than I’d certainly hoped for, there is no denying that this is one of the better collaborations to come from two creative entities.

The accompanying visual is a vibrant optical affair precisely executed with all of the artistic flare we certainly expected. Just like the track itself, the video mirrors the audacious statement of female empowerment. Further signifying Monáe’s unforgiving passion for presenting a new form of beauty, sexiness, and breaking barriers set for female artist, she has surely succeeded. These two ladies are musical movements of seismic proportions, all of which makes this not just amazing, but inspiring. As “Q.U.E.E.N.” is the first single from the Android’s forthcoming album Electric Lady, the tone has been set for greatness. Indulge below.

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TAWIAH | FREEdomDROP [EP]

Posted on May 3, 2013 by Soul

Tawiah had me at hello. After hearing “TEARdrop,” I was taken by her soul-bearing voice, drenched in rawness and that sort of brokenness that makes you connect instantly. After hearing subsequent releases, I continued to be impressed by the UK based artist overall delivery. Needless to say, I couldn’t wait to hear her second EP, FREEdomDROP in full. Upon first listen, there were no true standout tracks that rivaled that of her singles heard from the EP. However, all hope isn’t lost as some pieces are growers while others hit you immediately. Though this may require additional listens to impress me as she has already done so, I’m willing to do so. Reason being, there is something special about Tawiah. Listen below and judge for yourself.

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NEW MUSIC | Big Mister Doom – “Anybody Out There” [Feat. iET]

Posted on May 1, 2013 by Soul

As we all know, life can be heavy at times. If your like me, then you believe that music is one of life’s simple pleasures. Such is the case with Big Mister Doom’s latest track , “Anybody Out There”. Featuring the vocals of iET, the song is a atmospheric audio oasis of wonders. From its start to its end, the beauty overflows. With its tranquil production, complete with enveloping harmonies and enticing strings, the soundscape is undeniably impressive—-this is what a collaboration should sound like. Indulge below.

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NEW MUSIC | Tricky – “Hey Love”

Posted on April 29, 2013 by Soul

Tricky creates music that wraps around your ears and takes you on a trip-hop excursion. As he is finally back after three long years of silence, he is making his presence known with his new album False Idols (Out May 27, 2013). Having already released two singles, “Nothing’s Changed” and “Does It”, he has unveiled the LP’s third offering, “Hey Love.” While it’s certainly not as heavy as the previous releases, there is indeed nothing wrong with a more upbeat and less-solemn song from usual grim artist. The slightly pulsating melody is enough for me, perhaps its enough for you. Indulge below.

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NEW VIDEO | Rudimental – “Baby” [Feat. MNEK & Sinead Harnett]

Posted on April 29, 2013 by Soul

Let me preface this with saying I have listened to this song a million times before even attempting to write about it.

Rudimental has already got me lifted with their perviously released singles. However, their newest release “Baby” is just as impressive. With the added vocals of MNEK and Sinead Harnett, the track soars to sonic heaven with its relentless synths and heavy house sound. As if the track wasn’t enough, the accompanying video further compliments it even further. Vibrant, nostalgic, and above all, it makes you want to move. Whats not to love? Rudimental’s debut album Home is out in the UK on April 29th. Indulge below.

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THE RETURN OF LAURYN HILL

Posted on April 29, 2013 by Soul

Lauryn Hill is back!

That statement has been years in the making. Now due to her recent financial issues the enigmatic musical great is poised for a musical comeback. For many reasons this is amazing news. Not only for Ms. Hill’s loyal fanbase, but for the music industry as a whole. Lauryn hill represents artistry at its highest degree. She defines perspective, nerve, and immeasurable talent. It’s obvious that I am a fan. Needless to say, this is one of the best sentences I’ve ever written on SOM—welcome back Lauryn. Read her official statement regarding her return to music below via her Tumblr.

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NEW MUSIC | Jessie Ware – ” Love Thy Wil Be Done”

Posted on April 26, 2013 by Soul

Artist should invite you into a world, their world that is. With their creative mediums, visually or musically, the listener should be taken on a journey. Jessie Ware is truly one of those artist that truly encapsulates a moment with her charming vocals. In her latest audio treat, she takes on “Love Thy Will Be Done” by Martika which was helmed by the one and only Prince. Though the song has lived in a land of obscurity for many years, that may change after people get aquatinted with Ware’s vulnerable interpretation. Indulge below.

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NEW MUSIC | inc. – “Voices”

Posted on April 26, 2013 by Soul

What is there not to love about inc.?As they create some truly hypnotizing sounds with their brand of nu-wave R&B, the duo is one of the best things to happen to music in quite a while. While their debut album, No World continues to impress many, they unveiled a bonus track form the LP, “Vocies.” Strikingly beautiful, yet stiffly downhearted, the song describes the feelings one has after enduring heartbreak. Between the enveloping production and the lyrical depth, this is yet another impressive track.Trust me, heartbreak has never sound this good. If you have yet to indulge in inc., wait no longer. Listen below.

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