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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VIDEO | Kanye West Unveils “New Slaves”

Posted on May 18, 2013 by amir jamar

Yet again, Kanye West has proven why he is way ahead of the pack.

Prepping fans for his performance during tonight’s episode of Saturday Night Live, King Ye debuted a brand new song via projected visuals displayed on buildings across the world. On the fiery “New Slaves,” the multi-talented rapper returns to the fearlessly provocative shit-talker that we’ve all grown to either love or hate. Tackling everything from race to an attack on greedy corporations, it’s safe to say that Yeezy is back with a vengeance.

From the brilliant way that he has launched the project to the the brutally honest delivery of the track’s lyricism, Kanye reminds us that he reigns over a league of his own. Watch the video below.

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…AND THIS IS WHY I LOVE KANYE WEST

Posted on May 16, 2013 by amir jamar

I’ve ranted plenty o’ times here on SOM about Kanye West so today, I’ll spare you. Instead, I’ll leave it to this brief clip of Ye’s rant during last night’s Adult Swim Upfront Party in New York.

Addressing his upcoming performance on Saturday Night Live this weekend (I couldn’t be any more excited) and his latest clash with the ever-obnoxious paparazzi, Kanye reiterated why he is one of the most misunderstood pop stars on the planet. While it isn’t anything special or provocative, it’s just a little something for all of those “Kanye is insane,” “Kanye is an asshole,” or any other inaccurate theories surrounding his name.

And I’ll just leave it at that. Watch after the jump.

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NEW MUSIC | The Preatures – “Is This How You Feel?”

Posted on May 14, 2013 by amir jamar

On The Preatures‘ “Is This How You Feel?,” the fivesome flirt with elements of nostalgic rock n’ roll, funk and soul to create one irresistible musical delicacy. The band may be new to my radar, but after playing this track non-stop this morning, I am clearly obsessed. Stream the track below and get your copy on iTunes now.

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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 | Rubie Evans – “It’s Okay”

Posted on May 14, 2013 by amir jamar

Sometimes, we all need music that gives us the truth in the simplest way. And that’s just what Rubie Evans does on her new single, “It’s Okay.” With its raw delivery of pain, emotion and honesty, from the moment that it begins, the track is undeniably piercing. There is no run-around with this one; Rubie gets right to the point and tells it how it is.

Stream “It’s Okay” and download it for free below.

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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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NEW MUSIC | Ta-ku – “I Love Beyoncé”

Posted on May 9, 2013 by amir jamar

Following the release of Drake’s “Girls Love Beyoncé,” quite a few rappers and producers have also joined in the celebration of the Bootylicious One with their own renditions of the track.

Reworking the song into an infectious four-minute jam, Ta-ku‘s “I Love Beyoncé” certainly stands out from the other revamped versions. Placing Bey, Drake and James Faunterloy’s vocals over an experimental fusion of electronic and trap production, there is just something irresistible about this one.

“I Love Beyoncé” will appear on Ta-ku’s forthcoming Re-Twerk Vol. 2 and can be streamed 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 | Kanye West Previews New Album at Met Gala

Posted on May 7, 2013 by amir jamar

With rumors surrounding his upcoming project continuing to accumulate, it seems that we are finally getting closer and closer to indulging in Kanye West‘s sixth solo album. Much to the delight of his fans, during last night’s Met Gala, Kanye was tapped as one of the ceremony’s performers and excitingly unveiled new material.

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NEW MUSIC | Young Wonder – “Electrified”

Posted on May 7, 2013 by amir jamar

From start to finish, Young Wonder‘s “Electrified” is electro-pop perfection. With it’s finely-crafted production, the track grips you from the first moment that it begins; when the quirky lead vocals enter, the addictive quality is intensified as all of the different elements of the song work to create music that is irresistibly unique and intriguing. Find out for yourself by streaming it below.

“Electrified” is lifted from Young Wonder’s Show Your Teeth EP.

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NEW MUSIC | Say Lou Lou – “Fool of Me” [feat. Chet Faker]

Posted on May 7, 2013 by amir jamar

On Say Lou Lou‘s “Fool of Me,” the duo exemplify what it means to say a lot without saying much at all. With it’s combination of frank and to-the-point lyrics and alluringly melancholy production, the Chet Faker-assisted track is both relatable and undeniably catchy.

“Fool of Me” appears on Say Lou Lou’s new Julian EP, out today on iTunes.

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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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