All mp3s appearing on this blog are property of their rightful owners. They are posted here for PROMOTIONAL USE ONLY and to encourage support of the artists. If you own the rights to any of these mp3s and do not wish them to appear on the blog, please CONTACT US ,and they will be promptly removed.
Instead of giving you the long story about why this podcast didn't drop when it was scheduled to - how 'bout I just give you the music and you take it from there. Enjoy!
Remember my dude, Classic Beatz! Yeah, I know - it's been over 2 years since I interviewed him, but since then, he's been on his grind connecting with some great musicians to bring his latest album, Rumors of Royalty to the people, and I, as one of his trusted confidants, have been made privy to the album before its release date scheduled for October 28th. Classic describes Rumors of Royalty as the end of a trilogy which focuses more on his Southern Black American roots, rather than his African roots.
"The project is a mix of funk, soul, jazz, hip hop and house music. These are all the influences I've experienced growing up in St. Petersburg, Florida. If I had to sum up the album in a couple of words, I would say Pan-African Black American music!"
While I write and tune in to it, I can hear all of the influences, but most tracks move along the funkier jazz progressive sound which make for a delightful listen. The first single, "The Boom Bap" featuring emcees Fresh Daily and Black Spadeallow the melodic yet hard core vibe of Classic's production to be the perfect backdrop to paint their lyrical niceness. Pre-orders of the album are available now! Support it!
Six years ago, I fervently set out to create a movement I deemed necessary for my community and the city of Tampa where I live. Producing a platform for health and wellness - together with showcasing various independent musicians was the overall mission. The Vision took form as Soul Lessons Entertainment (SLE). With more passion than know how, my attempts to garner support for this Vision served to be challenging. Over the subsequent years, I experienced more setbacks than successes with life getting in the way - bringing what seemed like a barrage of letdowns and disappointments. I finally called it quits! Even though I still had the desire in my heart, I didn’t take the actions to pursue it in spite of all the obstacles, which is one of the most important factors when seeing your dreams through: DETERMINATION!
Today, I have a more defined purpose of what SLE represents moving forward. I know there will be challenges, they are inevitable and must be overcome to realize the mission of the movement I envisioned for all these years. So get ready for what’s about to come! Allow me to reacquaint you with WSLE Soundscape Radio, SLE’s podcast. It’ll be a year come October 18th since my last one, but we’ll return with a collection of new and old vibes for your listening pleasure.
No matter what, I going to keep my promise of being consistent. Didn't get to mix this out fully the way I normally do, but it still sounds good! Sorry no download link this time, but enjoy it all the same still. Don't forget to like the page on Facebook: Soul Lessons Entertainment and follow me on Twitter @mysoullessons and share the vibe with a friend.
Tracklist
1. Skyzoo – Drew & Derwin
2. Rapper Big Pooh – For Members Only
3. Vel The Wonder – Lizzy Love
4. AlexisDavis – The Lift Off
5. Kris Mars - Night Falls
6. Staycen X Koen - Never Too Late
7. Breezy LoveJoy – Sadie
8. Lucille Ghatti – The Super Villain #2
9. Radio Galaxy – Feel Trip
10. Nicholas Ryan Gant – Liberty
11. Substantial - Neighborhood Watch (feat. Acem of Gods'Illa)
12. TingTryer - .38
13. Funkommunity – The Light
14. BMB aka WayneTweed - Amore
15. Robert Glasper Experiment – Black Radio ft Yasiin Bey (Pete Rock rmx)
16. Missoles - Under the Sun ft. Erik Rico (LAID S.O.U.L. rmx)
17. Gwen Bunn – Epitome
Mr. Wells is back! Yeeeah! Let's pick up where I left off 1yr & 3 months ago with that good music for your mind, body and soul. A call to action has been served, so please respond accordingly. The turning of a new is about to unfold.
Tracklist
Spinnerty – Just Listen ft. John Robinson
Tall Black Guy - Who is He
Teri Tobin – Love Me
LaToiya Williams – This Love is Sweet
Diggs Duke – Patiently We Bloom
Mo Kolours – Temi
Paul White – The Punch Drummer
YG’z – Groove on (Pete Rock rmx)
Zhane – Request Line (rmx ft Queen Latifah)
Commentary/LL Cool J - Pink Cookies… (Easy Moe Bee rmx instrumental)
Sango – Sempre
Rochelle Jordan – Could’ve Been
Ana Tijoux - El Rey Solo (Feat. Curumin)
Proh Mic – Cosmic Beauty
Georgia Ann Muldrow - Kali Yuga
Yesterday’s New Quintet – Little Girl (Dakota’s Song)
Teresa Jenee - Tahitian Vanilla
I-Ced – Soldier Ready To Go Home
Skyzoo – The Ellis Wilson Painting
So many times since my absence from blogging, I'd thought of returning just to let my visitors know what I've been vibing to. Loads of great releases from singles to EPs & LPs, free releases and paid for gems that I've been inundated with, and all have truly been taking me a minute to get through. Finally after six weeks, I return with a notable mention - a rising underground voice that rightfully deserves his spotlight. Known as Ghetto_Falsetto via twitter, Arizona native, now New York resident, Nicholas Ryan Gant steps out on a good foot with his debut, Promises (5-22-12). Filled with that electro soul/hip hop fused sound that I've come to really appreciate, NRG wraps his soft crooning pipes around every key, bassline synth and drumbeat that surrounds him. NRG takes on relationships setting the sex filled tales aside and gives focus to one of past loves (New Day), change (Whirlwind), trust (Good Thing), freedom (Liberty) and of course promises (Promises).
Leading off the album "Disclosure" kicks with a nice dub type vibe which sets the mood for NRG's introspective narrative, admitting to the world his flawed ways which in turn is damaging to his own self, but God has mercy on him despite that. "Good Thing" "Memory" and "Over Us/Convo With Queen Godis" with its house inspired groove all get the body moving, and NRG laces them all showcasing his controlled ranges which never slip considering the fact he sings in his upper register quite a bit throughout the album.
Delivering thirteen tracks with only one to my dislike, NRG closes his gem outing with a superb track so vastly different from all the rest. "You Are" is a jazz lovers dream, backed by a beautifully played piano and NRG's caressing tone seems to set the stage for an EP or just a string of other works to come in a different direction. Upon first listen traditional R&B/Soul music fans may not get what NRG has crafted with his choice of production, but for those of us who follow the sound, Promises is a love story descriptive of all its wins and fails which in a whole doesn't fail. You can stream "Memory" and "Over Us/Convo With Queen Godis" with it's house inspired style here, and if that's not convincing enough with respect for the artist, I've provided snippets of two others. "Thought of You" which sounds like Pete Rock may have produced it and the beautiful "You Are." Thank you Nicholas for gifting me. You will get supported. I encourage you all to do the same.
Nicholas Ryan Gant - Thought of You ft. Marion Ross (snippet)
Nicholas Ryan Gant - You Are (Snippet)
Finally, some new music from Record Breakin' Music (RBM) via DC trio, Columbia Nights. Paying homage to legendary jazz/soul artist George Duke, the two man - one woman collective give a more subdued version of "Feel". Lead vocalist, Sarai Abdul-Malik sings with a warm and sexy tone that wraps around tender keys and a deep moving bass-line which does the original its just due. Readying fans for their debut EP: Dawn, which is scheduled for a May release, you can rest assured they won't disappoint.
Here's the video for Mr. J. Medeiros' exceptional song, "Pale Blue Dot." Definitely one of my favorite tracks of 2012 thus far. I encourage you to spread the news about this song and video as this is a "word of mouth campaign." Positive content needs to be supported even more so than the barrage of b.s that remains to prevails via tv and radio.
It's been like six years since the release of Mr. Brown by Atlanta's, Sleepy Brown of Organized Noize. Can't tell you how surprised I was to hear something new from him given it was almost a year ago that I heard the smoothed out gem, "You're My Lady" not to mention, Mr. Brownwas such a dope album. "We Run The Night" is straight up funky! A chill vibe that's infectious and soul stirring. Enjoy this and make sure to keep an eye out for his forthcoming album, Sex, Drugs and Soul - if that's still the title.
Her rousing rendition of Gnarls Barkley's "Crazy" brought the soul of UK songstress, Alice Russell to my attention. Sometime around the end of summer in 2009 is when I heard it via the Radio One network. Like most persons who hadn't seen her prior to hearing her, I thought she was a black woman. Nevertheless, with pipes that can belt out pretty much any soul classic of the late 60's, 70's & 80's, she surely holds her own. It's a wonder howAlice didn't get the same acclaim as fellow UK songbirg, Adele.
Her debut, 09s' Pot of Gold, in my opinion was a great album! Eleven tracks inspired by the sounds of Motown and legends like Aretha Franklin and Curtis Mayfield flow all throughout the album. Now after nearly three years, she's back - joining forces with producer, Quantic (who I've come to know only last year). Look Around The Corner is the forthcoming album schedule for an April 3rd release, and judging from the symphonic sound of the first single by the same name and now the amazing second single "Ill Keep My Light In My Window," fans will not be disappointed. Keep tuned in; 2012 is going to be another great year for music.
New music from Tall Black Guy is always a good thing. This time around, the super producer lays down a very different and interesting sound than what I've come to know from him. Slowing down the tempo and grudging out the sound - Bilal's "Free" gets a very alternative rework that both Bilal and producer, Nottz would be very proud of. This is just a taste of some new freshness to come, so keep watch for more. TBG is just getting warmed up for 2012.
"Today's a special day in remembrance of a man that resembled the spirit of a leader at a time where many just followed suit & went with the tide. Another example of how powerful the spoken word can be, changing the lives of many by something as simple as a thought; amplified by the tone of his voice. When I'm onstage, sometimes I think of Martin & Malcolm. I think of how they fueled their supporters with inspiration to push forward. I wrote "I Believe" at a time when I myself was going thru a lot, and was trying to fine tune my focus. Somehow after talking to my creator, & Charlie Ross (who lived in Okinawa, Japan at the time), I was given the music & this is what came from it." - yU
"I Believe" comes from 2011's, The Earn. An album highly worthy of your support. Available here.
I heard this yesterday via Kev Beadle's podcast and was instantly blown away. "Ah Yeah" is the first official single from pianist/producer, Robert Glasper's fifth album, Black Radio scheduled for a February 28th release. Featuring Musiq Soulchild and Chrisette Michele on vocals, this has only intensified the desire to purchase this album. Having heard two previous singles and peeping the track-list, I can go on early to say Black Radio probably will be album of the year for 2012. Pre-orders available now via amazonand itunes.
A new year without some new tunes is straight up wack! That's why producer Tall Black Guy's management made sure to hit me with one from his latest batch. As always, TBG cooks up another soulful dish for us to vibe out to. Rhythmic drums, lush keys, that signature bass line and a few ad-libs keeps the head in constant nod mode. This one's available come 1-24-12 on 7" LP, so if you're a vinyl collector or dj add this is one to your crates. Support it here.
Georgia Ann Muldrow is one artist known for delivering a plethora of very different styles of music. Soul, jazz, hip-hop, electro, funk... you get the picture. She's super talented and blessed with the gifts of voice, songwriting, production, instrumentation and much more we have yet to see. The featured single, "More & More" ft. Bilal comes from her latest release, "Owed to Mama Rickie" which is now available everywhere. The song itself is straight up classic, and the message throughout the video is one of staying true to yourself & loving who you are. So many beautiful images of black and brown people rocking their naturals and just expressing their beauty and love of self and family. I sat watching with my five year old son and had him nodding his head and singing the hook after our second viewing. This album is next on my to get list. I suggest you do the same. Take your preference below and support good music.
"Makin' Moves" is the debut and lead single from London based singer, Himal. Just last week I received an email notifying me to Himal, the video above and his forthcoming Ep, Soul Light /Soul Love. The track is produced by Kensaye, who brought us an amazing remix of Amy Winehouse's "Rehab." On "Makin' Moves," Kensaye composes a summery feel type track which compliments the easy going flow of Himal's vocals. As much as I like the track, I thought it was a bit long though and could've ended under four minutes (just my thoughts). Still and all, it's a solid first for Himal so I won't be to hard on him. Check out below another single that I came across from him and keep watch for the Ep in 2012. Get your free download of the single here.
One of my new favorite voices on the scene is London's, Kaleem Taylor. After first being introduced via his classic track "Never",I was sure of his abilities to create something pretty nice for audio relief. And with a baritone so rich in soul, 20 year old Kaleem,delivers this five piece recording - Smooth Ep to wet the palates of his fans and new ones to come. Do not sleep on this kid! You can download the project for free here.
Back in August, Maimouna Youssef dropped the lead single, "I Got A Man" from her well crafted debut album, The Blooming. With the visuals, Maimouna along with director, Brian "B Kyle" Atkins create a colorful backdrop for the song. I don't watch to many videos from start to finish, but this one definitely had me, and at over 6 mins long, that's saying a lot. Enjoy! Stream/purchase the album here.
Last year, I was introduced to powerhouse producer and Hungarian born musician, Opolopo. Strange name, yet a strong and simple definition meaning "Plenty" in Yoruban gives validity to the man's abilities behind the boards. For over a decade, his sound has played behind the works of various labels and artists, some I may have heard but would have to research for familiarity. Voltage Controlled Feelings (which is not his debut) released on Tokyo Dawn Records presented an array of funked out vibes in combination with a sonic blend of 80's inspired R&B, techno synths and future electronic sounds. Tracks like "Glide" "Take it Slow" and "Waiting" all had me moving and contorting my body in ways it hasn't done since I was a teen. Okay, I'm exaggerating, but seriously, I bounced and jerked my body uncontrollably to the rhythms as they blared from my speakers. Before now (Mutants), his full production on Amalia's Art Slave brought more attention to his diversity in the lab which churned out some gems for this album. Amalia, with her very passionate vocals and stylish groove worked wonderfully with Opolopo's new production course. I heard influences from Janet Jackson's - Rhythm Nation and Guy's - The Future (both classic albums) throughout the project.
Now on Mutants it's all about the remixes he has done. Scheduled for release on December 5th, the 14 track album is filled with some banging tunes. Taking on tracks which feature artists like Talib Kweli, Amalia, Colonel Red, Gregory Porter, Soulparlor and more, this one is a great introduction for those who aren't familiar and a true gift for those like myself who has heard one or two of these remixes, but doesn't own any - until now.
I spoke about Proh Mic in my post connected with the Hawthorne Headhunters, so it's only right I give shine to the man himself as he too has his album out in stores. Rhythm for Days is the official debut by emcee/producer Proh Mic. The West Seattle, Wa native has been putting in work for a few years now, and it's unfortunate that so many, myself included has just come to know of him. Right around late 2010 was when I got introduced to his vibe. Catch A Pisces,Cheesecake and Prohmita are three free albums I got put on to courtesy of BIFTK. Rawsome is another, which I don't have, but right now it's all about Rhythm For Days.
Released on Oct 25th via All Natural Inc, RFD took me on a musical journey back to the 80's while still finding current ground with original production, stellar song composition and a cast of superb indie talent. "Mothership" sets the tone of the album beginning with what sounds like an emergency bell, but is more of an activation sequence preparing listeners for the cosmic journey ahead. The multi-faceted Georgia Ann Muldrow is the first of several guest appearances. She sings a tale of lost knowledge ranging from black love, raising our children and cultivating our foods on "I Remember."Coultrain drops in on the funky club banger "Hit The Floor" The first of Proh Mics 80's renditions is "Don't Stop The Music" and "I Can't Wait" is the second - both easily placed me back in Brooklyn, NY jammin' on the block with my boom-box.
"Sleep In Girl" ft Tone Trezure, I'd have to say is my fave for now. Despite hearing it some time prior to the album's release, something about that deep bass-line groove and Trezure's distinctive voice will have me on repeat a few times. "Easy Luvin'" ft Paolo Jean is another winner with its soulful-samba feel.
Outside of handling the production, Proh also contributes his share of lyrics throughout, but shines so bright on "Optimistic." Really feelin' the positive outlook he has on this track, and to add more to keep one salivating, Proh closes out the track with this is Busta Rhymes sample that's just fire! He told me via twitter, he believes there's an extended version on the physical cd. Well, I'm gonna have to order one in due time.
As this is not a review, but merely a quick glance into a really dope album from a very talented brotha, I say to you, check this album out and support it. I read on one of my acquaintances FB page that it's our responsibility as music seekers and lovers to promote and share the news of really incredible artists when we come to know about them. I'm doing me part, now you do yours. Proh Mic - Rhythm For Days is available now via itunes, amazon, and for the physical which includes a separate instrumentals disc, you can get that here.
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