MIGUEL | The Future Of R&B

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There is no denying that Miguel had an incredible past two years. He not only had a monster hit single with “Adorn”, but also a critically acclaimed album with Kaleidoscope Dream, and a non-stop tour schedule. Add to that, show-stopping performances at this year’s Grammy Award’s and more, this man is easily at the forefront of R&B.

While many of his contemporaries are content with assimilating to the increasingly lowered standards for an R&B artist, Miguel seemingly challenges himself to be original and create music that’s linear in terms of progression. Though he is surely what many would deem an “urban” artist, his music is a sonic fusion of rock, electronic, soul, and blues—which makes him a singular talent. In a short amount of time, he has to joined the rankings of the top artists in his genre, much like Frank Ocean. His latest performances on Saturday Night Live perfect embody why he continues to conquer the industry. Watch below.

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NEW VIDEO | Miguel – “Candles In The Sun”

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What’s really at the core of who we are? Where is God in all of the world’s madness? How do we survive life and not be swallowed by it? When listening to Miguel’s “Candles In The Sun,” its only natural to be hit with a wave of questions concerning one’s humanity and that of the worlds.

While his album Kaleidoscope Dreams is abundant with sexual overtones and matters of the heart, there is a moment where love and lust take a backseat to life. On the album’s closing track “Candles In The Sun,” it creates a serious case of reflection. It’s only fitting the accompanying visual carry the same somber tone.

From the gripping imagery of poverty, drug addiction, religion, and the still flashes of Miguel himself in a black and white back drop, this video is powerfully raw. This is by far one of Miguel’s best artistic moments. He should continue to tap into this layer and create art that not only makes us want to groove, but think as well. Watch the video below.

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LIVE | Miguel Performs Acoustic Set For NPR

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Miguel is one captivating artist. Be it his self-indulgent persona, invigorating performances, or elevated brand of R&B, the man is making moves. To close out his 2012, he performed a brief 3-song acoustic set for NPR’s Tiny Desk. As he sailed through “Do You…”, “The Thrill” and “Adorn,” Miguel easily showed why he is indeed conquering the game. Prepare for seamless delivery and Kaleidoscope thrill. Watch below.

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NEW MUSIC | Miguel – “On These Wings” & “Bawdy”

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What artist wouldn’t want to have a year like Miguel? Not only did he release one of the year’s best songs with “Adorn” and albums with Kaleidoscope Dreams, he garnered multiple Grammy nominations and has been touring non-stop in the process. Doing such on his own artistic terms, might I add. Somehow, two unreleased tracks recently surfaced from the singers early stages in development, before he became the Miguel; the pleasurable “On These Wings” and the buoyant “Bawdy.” Though the man himself is not pleased these records came to surface, I’m sure his fans feel different. Indulge below.

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VIDEO | Miguel – “The Thrill” [Live]

If there is one artist who has soared to new heights, it would definitely be Miguel. After releasing a stellar collective of elevated R&B drenched with electro/alternative flair with Kaleidoscope Dreams, his spotlight is shining bright. With continuous touring, performances, and fan-fare alike, Miguel’s music is everywhere – no complaints here. He has the success many artists would dream of; commercial, critical and street (yes Street). In his latest showing captured by Yours Truly, he delivers a solid rendition of “The Thrill”.  Miguel is certainly an experience to say the least. Indulge below.

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VIDEO | Miguel Defines Talent With Live “Adorn” Performance

Due to the current shift with music, talent is often diluted with auto-tune sparkle, faux fashion appeal, or all out trickery. Talent at its rarest form is raw and not manufactured—as it should be. Needless to say, when it comes to some artists they will not have you think jaded and cynical as I tend to. Apart of their job is to make you believe and see why they are worthy of the spotlight. When I saw that Miguel performed “Adorn” with just his voice and a mic I couldn’t press play any faster.

This clip is impressive for many reasons; Miguel sounds incredible, he bleeds passion, “Adorn” will never be a song of the moment so all renditions (stripped down or with a full orchestra are welcomed), and it’s effortlessly compelling. In the sea of reality shows and “celebrity” it’s easy to overlook amazing moments such as this. Miguel’s sophomore LP Kaleidoscope Dream is out 10/2. I’m a fan.

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LIVE | Miguel Previews “Kaleidoscope Dream”

Since reinventing himself with the release of his Art Dealer EP series, there has yet to be a dull moment in the countdown to the release of Miguel‘s upcoming album, Kaleidoscope Dream. Taking the stage at Joe’s Pub in New York City, Miguel unveiled new material from the new LP and songs from his Art Dealer collection and successful debut album.

As Soul expressed earlier this week, Miguel becomes better and better with time; with his latest projects, he is not only making more of a name for himself, but a bold statement for his ambitious brand of progressive R&B as well.

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NEW VIDEO | Miguel – “Adorn”

Miguel just gets better with time.  As recently announced , the R&B hybrid is back with the follow-up to his debut, Kaleidoscope Dreams—set to be released in three parts. After being featured on his Art Dealer Chic series, “Adorn” serves as the projects  lead single, thus receiving  another video treatment. Elevated all around with an extended version and glossy new visual, the track now has all the shine it always deserved. The first part, Kaleidoscope Dreams: Water Preview, is out now exclusively via iTunes.

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STREAM | Miguel – “Kaleidoscope Dream: The Water Preview”

After releasing his critically acclaimed Art Dealer Chic series earlier this year, Miguel has created a wild anticipation for his sophomore album. Instead of taking the conventional route for an album release, Miguel announced that he would be releasing the upcoming LP in thee parts. Much to the delight of his blossoming fan-base, he has released the first of the trilogy, titled Kaleidoscope Dream: The Water Preview.

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Why I Went From Hating to Loving Miguel

“I hate him.”

That was my reaction when I first set sight on the one and only Miguel. I found him to be extremely over-ambitious and pretentious.  I voiced my feelings towards the singer with amir jamar many times (we both happened to agree). Fast forward to present time and my initial hatred has transformed into sincere appreciation and support. There are a few reasons why I have had a change of heart:

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NEW MUSIC | Miguel – “Adorn” [Full Version]

Consistency is key. In these times more than ever, it’s crucial for artists to constantly deliver the goods or face potential career  setbacks (see Ameriie). On a non-stop ride since his debut, Miguel has become one of music’s most thrilling acts. In a brilliant artistic move, the progressive singer has chosen “Adorn” as the first official single from his forthcoming LP. The track was originally featured on his Art Dealer Chic EP, and quickly became a fan-favorite. The newly-revamped version is just an elevated form of what was already an amazing song. There is no doubt Miguel’s next project will be major. He is walking in his own lane.

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NEW MUSIC | Miguel – “Art Dealer Chic Vol. 3″ [EP]

In the final installment of his Art Dealer Chic series, Miguel further develops his experimental evolution within the R&B realm. With each volume diving deeper and deeper into Miguel’s multifarious artistry, his sophomore album is looking more promising than ever. In different ways, each volume is proof that Miguel’s debut LP was a clear understatement of all that he has to offer.

Download here…

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NEW VIDEO | Miguel – “…All”

Now this is fresh. Miguel continues to impress with his latest EP, Art Deal Chic Vol. 2. His newest visual, “…All,” has an intimate and grainy feel which truly accentuates the tracks elevated feel. Though short, this is a statement. Miguel has  come into his own as an artist—and that makes him even more intriguing.

If you have yet to do so, downloand ADC Vol. 2 today.

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NEW MUSIC | Miguel – “Art Dealer Chic Vol. 2″ [EP]

With Miguel‘s Art Dealer Chic series, he definitely gained a fan in yours truly. For after speaking so highly of his art, Miguel created a certain hype which did not fully manifest itself. With the Art Dealer Chic vol. 1, the output matched his eclectic vision and I looked forward to its follow-up.  Now with the release of the second installment, Art Dealer Chic Vol.2 , a 3-track EP, the neo-type continues to impress and intrigue. The concluding set will be released in April.

[DOWNLOAD]  Art Dealer Chic Vol. 2  EP

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NEW VIDEO | Miguel – “Adorn”

I am often conflicted when it comes to Miguel. Is he really new age R&B? Is he as genre-pushing as he aims to be? Though I think he can be, he has yet to do such in my eyes. I am one who appreciates his effort and ambition, however I must note when his output does not fully measure up. That said, I think this is one talented gentleman who happens to  doing wonderful things for male R&B and black music, period.

Miguel’s latest release, “Adorn” lays beautifully over 80′s inspired synths and features some truly enticing vocals as he serenades his lady.

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