Idol Chit Chat: Top 5 Rewind
MackN2U: so as far as my top choices... I think Syesha could move up and bump one of the Davids
Mello: it would have to be Archuleta because everyone is riding Cook right now
MackN2U: yeah... but Archuleta had a good night last night
Mello: he definitely did
MackN2U: For once he stepped away from the ballads and did something upbeat and it's about damn time... I was beginning to think he could only do one type of song
Mello: I was really rooting for my male version of Hannah Montana
MackN2U: lol… Jason Castro... can he go home PLEASE!!
Mello: he's definately in the bottom two. If I could reverse the hands of time, I'd bring horse girl back
MackN2U: and bite-your-bottom-lip-Brooke right along with him with that 'nightmare' performance. She always sounds like she's a cheap imitation. Syesha was at the top of her game last night... she always sounds great to me
Mello: she's showing improvement. Cook has phenominal performances every week… the top 3 will be interesting
MackN2U: very interesting... David Cook is already a superstar; his performances are so effortless
Mello: I think Brooke goes home tonite
MackN2U: Jason actually sounded alright last night, but not good enough to stay.
Mello: if she doesn't, I'm throwing my tv in the garbage!
MackN2U: If she doesn't I'm gonna get my hair cut like Ryan Seacrest
Mello: I don't think you'll have to worry about that because I truly believe she's going home
MackN2U: Syesha's probably been in the bottom three more than any contestant in the history of Idol
Mello: I agree… Tarantula Hair plays it too safe… he has yet to make me say ‘wow’… his performances are always dry
MackN2U: I can't stand to hear him start to sing. He should have been gone a long time ago... these damn teenyboppers keep voting
Mello: only thing that captures my attention are his pretty blue eyes, and his smile
MackN2U: I'd love to hear a David Cook album... that dude is by far the most talented on the show
Mello: some folks are naturals @ being a star especially in their element
MackN2U: and he's definitely a natural
Mello: I'm just anxious for the top 3
MackN2U: If there was an upset, who would you rather see in the top 3 - Jason or Brooke?
Mello: Jason… can't stand to see Brooke. her performances are over the top boring
MackN2U: lol... yeah I agree... at least he sounds better
International Swag
More & more
For those consumers listening to Estelle for the first time, at first listen, you hear a sound comparitive to Floetry & Lauryn Hill, that is of course before she had her nervous breakdown. Showing versatility, she lets it be known, she's just not a woman with a powerful singing voice, but she also is a dope MC. American Boy featuring Mr. Louis Vuitton Don, her first single, is just one of the many collabos featured on the album. This album from start to finish is remarkable.
As John Legends' first artist off of his Schoolhouse label, its no wonder why the album is entitled Shine, because she does just that. Without letting all the goodies out the bag, take a listen to the album. See for yourself of all the splendors this british bombshell has to offer. Its definately an easy listen. and its titillating to your ears. Submerge yourself. I dare ya!
Hey DJ: Bring That Back!!
Album: Another Level
Release Date: September 1996
The wonderful thing about having a massive CD collection is that I can resurrect artists at any time, and transport myself back to some of the best times in life. Today for some reason I woke up with Blackstreet on the brain. Let me clarify: this would be the 2nd incarnation of Blackstreet, post-Dave Hollister. See, most of us know Blacksreet as a quartet, but they’ve endured enough roster changes to make 2 quartets and still have an odd man out – a total of 9 members. But enough with the history lesson; let’s jump back about 12 years or so… it’s Friday night and I’m vacuuming the living room listening to my Sony Walkman – yes, remember those little boxes that were clever enough to play cassette tapes? Anyway, the Live Squad (WKYS… DMV folks) introduces this song that’s so hot I had to turn off the vacuum and get lost for a second. When it starts, I’m thinking “Damn, someone is jockin’ Tupac’s beat (I Ain't Mad Atcha).” But the hook was so crazy, I couldn’t stop listening.
The song was Don’t Leave, from Blackstreet’s multiplatinum sophomore joint, Another Level. This album was the breakthrough for the new-jack swing brothers and included the #1 single No Diggity (featuring Queen Pen and Dr. Dre), as well as Fix, and the soulful Beatles cover (Money Can’t) Buy Me Love. Another Level was released in 1996, at the close of the New Jack Swing era and infused elements of jazz, hip-hop, and R&B to create a classic sound. Other notable songs on the album are Good Lovin’, I Can’t (Get You Out of My Mind), and the Debarge-sampled The Lord Is Real (Time Will Reveal). Rumor has it there’s a new BlackStreet album on the way for this summer. Considering their last effort (Level II, 2004) was less than stellar, I hope Teddy Riley and whichever incarnation is featured on this project can bring the magic of the R&B quartet back to the scene.
Edit: By request, here's the video:-MackN2U-
Back When It Was...
Song: Teenage Love Affair
Album: As I Am
Ever wonder how some celebs recover so quickly from media backlash? Do something impressive to shift everyone’s attention. Let’s take Alicia Keys for example: for the last few weeks, the internet has been abuzz about Ms. Keys’ misconstrued comments regarding gangster rap in a recent interview for Blender magazine. In the interview, she’s quoted as saying, "Gangsta rap was a ploy for black people to kill each other. Gangsta' rap didn't exist". So just when Mr. Beef himself, 50 Cent decides he wants to bash Ms. Keys, what does she do? Release an amazingly great video… All that said, let’s get to the point...
Teenage Love Affair, the latest single from Alicia Keys’ multiplatinum third album As I Am, has been tearing up the airwaves with its old soul feel and lyrics that make you go back to the days of being home before the street lights come on. To top it all, she’s just released an amazing video clip to accompany it. An homage to Spike Lee’s groundbreaking film School Daze, Derek Luke (Antwone Fisher) and Ms. Keys transport you back to the 80’s, to the simpler times when love was endless doodling on a composition book and notes with checkboxes to that special someone. Back in the days when talking on the phone for hours was the most intimate thing you did with someone. Back when your friends liked someone because you liked them; and the instant you hated them, they hated them too. Simple times. Good times. Talent shows and pajama parties. Don’t you wish life were that simple again? Enjoy the video…
-MackN2U-
SoundSavvy Soundbyte: 'Be A Nigger Too'
MackN2U: I like Nas' new song, ‘Be A Nigger Too’; It's different... he presents a different perspective of a controversial term
Mello: yea that's why Nas is a great rapper - he gets very deep. But when he thinks outside the box and goes way extreme it hurts him
MackN2U: yeah but only because people don't pay attention...
Mello: yea, which is sad… I'd support his ‘Nigger’ album 300% because based on the title of the album I’m intrigued to wanna know more
MackN2U: Nigger is used as a term to describe blacks, but whichever way you flip it, SOMEBODY feels it's cool to be a "nigger" - thats what the song is sayin... so it's like why even fight over the word?
Mello: every ethnic group has pretty much adopted the word
MackN2U: exactly... that’s because there are “niggers” in every race. And regardless of what connotation you give it, people will still use it
Mello: pretty much, and blacks take offense to it but he’s sayin, “what's the difference between us calling folks spics, kikes and crackers?”
MackN2U: but beyond that, he's also sayin that a simple word like nigger cannot dictate the actions of a group of people
Mello: UNLESS of course you give just cause and display those type of actions
MackN2U: And I applaud Nas, for opposing the majority. He's gotten to a point in his career where people's opinions won't make or break him... he's already a made man
Mello: yea,
MackN2U: and musicians feel they HAVE to do that, to develop a following first... even Nas did it. That ‘Nastradamus’ album was total conformity... but now that he's built a platform he can say what he wants
Mello: yea. Like some people still don't like the Erykah Badu album, but...you gotta appreciate what these artists do
MackN2U: right... cause even if the mainstream doesn't appreciate it, it's ART so there's someone who does. That's what separates true artists from everyone else. A true artist doesn't care about appealing to the mainstream as long as they appeal to someone.
THIS TOPIC WILL BE DISCUSSED BY SOUND-SAVVY AND MINDSTREAM RADIO ON WEDNESDAY 4/23 FROM 8-10 PM. GO TO WWW.IM4RADIODC.COM TO LISTEN TO THE SHOW AND CALL IN.
LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK OF THIS NEW JOINT BY NAS, 'BE A NIGGER TOO'. LEAVE A COMMENT AND EXPRESS YOUR THOUGHTS! We
SoundSavvy Blast or Trash: Singles Review
Song:Bust It Baby Pt. 2
Song: Forever
Song: Closer
Song: I Got A Thang For Ya
Legacy of a Legend
Event: Bailey's Presents Estelle hosted by John Legend
Date: 4.16.08
Location: Amos' Southend, Charlotte, NC
I was curious as to what this
Places everyone. After about 90 minutes, the band files in on stage; each takes their rightful place to back this brown sista with soul and swagger. In she comes, petite, but strong, and she takes her place at center stage. Her intro, a jazzy mix of guitars, drums and horns, and when she grabs the mic she brings it all home, opening the show with her Will.I.Am produced smash Wait A Minute (Just A Touch). The crowd livens, and for the next hour, we’re one nation under a
Estelle’s performance is full of energy, sassiness, and eloquence, all rolled up into one little lady. Her sharp tongue and quick wit kept the crowd with their hands in the air and smiles all night. Although most of her songs were unfamiliar to the majority, one thing was certain, everyone was feeling her! Having been one of the few people there to actually hear the whole project before the show, I must say, I have an even deeper appreciation. The first half was for the ladies, and she performed the reggae infused tracks Magnificent (which features Kardinal Offishall) and Come Over, as well as More Than Friends. The latter sheds light on the often blurred line between friends and lovers.
Highlight of the night for most was when John Legend joined Estelle onstage for a duo rendition of Michael Jackson’s I Can’t Help It, which led into another duet between Legend and his protégé – the rhythmic, island flavored Come Over. Towards the end of the performance, Estelle rocked the house with her Swizz-Beatz produced Shine, an empowerment anthem that had the crowd swingin from left to right, chanting along to an interpolation of Shawty Lo’s Dey Know. Of course there was the crowd-pleasing performance of American Boy her widely popular lead single which features Kanye West.
The first artist on Legend’s Homeschool Records, Estelle proves she’s no amateur to the mic nor the stage. Each number was preceded by a synopsis of its creation, establishing a level of relation with the audience. Armed with a fresh sound, confidence, and a round-the-way girl flow that’ll make her fit right at home in your stereo. On her sophomore effort Shine due in stores April 29th, you’ll find a clever mix of reggae inspired songs, hip-hop artistry, and expressive vocals. If you’ve attended the live shows, you got just a touch – this album is sure to shine!
-MackN2U-
Idol Chit Chat: Top 7 Rewind
MackN2U: Last night, Mariah night... I must say a lot of them surprised me.
Mello: Yea, I agree… Mariah is known to hit a few high notes in some of her songs
MackN2U: exactly, and I didn't think the guys would be up for that particular challenge. She’s got a 5-octave range!
Mello: Last night...each performer showed tremendous growth
MackN2U: Brooke was the worst of the night though. It's her time... HOLLA BACK BROOKE!!!
Mello: Brooke is so last year
MackN2U: Whenever she plays the piano she always reminds me of a little schoolgirl at a piano recital…the way she looks down at the keys and concentrates so hard. She was nervous last night and it showed
Mello: yea, I'm bout tired of the piano gig. Her rendition of Hero was far left
MackN2U: it was sooo fast. Originally, Hero was a slow inspirational song, it's slow so you can feel the emotion. She wasn't feeling it at all; maybe that's why WE weren't feeling HER
MackN2U: and then that little cowardly lion face she put on after Simon's comments... sorry babe, no HERO to save you this week; Kristy Lee ain't too far behind.
Mello: country chick?
MackN2U: right, horse girl
Mello: we already got Carrie Underwood…on to the next! LOL
MackN2U: she was aight last night...
Mello: in my best Randy voice, "yooo dawg, that was just aight for me”
MackN2U: Syesha, to me is always great…she just picks the wrong songs... last night though she was on
Mello: yea, Syesha did a remarkable job last night
MackN2U: but I agreed that it was good that she picked a lesser known song. Vanishing is beautiful and it helped the audience focus more on her and not her comparison to Mariah
Mello: yea, I had no choice but to pay attention to her voice, cuz I'd never heard that song before
MackN2U: How about Carly Smithson?
Mello: Carly, has a great voice, but for some reason she always gets mediocre reviews
MackN2U: I'm convinced the judges have their picks for the season, and Carly ain't one of them
Mello: some of her song was rather pitchy
MackN2U: are you channeling Randy? LOL I agree she was a little pitchy at first because I don't think she thought she could hit the high notes, but then she just kinda went "all or nothing" and it got good! Did u see Jason do “I Don’t Wanna Cry”?
Mello: I'm so sick of those tarantula arms that he calls hair
MackN2U: I hated his arrangement.... he changed the melody up on a classic
Mello: only thing going 4 him are his straight white teeth and those pretty blue eyes
MackN2U: and since neither of those can sing for him... i'm hoping he goes home soon. I'd pay to see him in the bottom three tonight
MackN2U: the biggest shocker for me though was David Cook. Always Be My Baby is so R&B/Pop... and he completely rocked it out!!!
Mello: yea, his arrangement was great
MackN2U: You got your David, and I got mine!!
Mello: I never imagined that song to be a slow tune
MackN2U: nor a rock tune
Mello: he made it his own
MackN2U: and did a damn good job!!
Mello: He killed it
MackN2U: that's my choice to win it!!
Mello: my top 3: Archuleta, Syesha & Cook
MackN2U: Those are my top 3 too, but I'm certain that my David is gonna beat your David… lol
MackN2U: To give you props though Archuleta actually did very well. That boy must have perfect pitch because he barely hits a bad note
Mello: I know! I had a talk with him just before he went out. I told him if he did a good job, I'd see to it that Hannah Montana would go on a date with him
MackN2U: HAH!! Did he start gasping for air?
Mello: guess now, I gotta get in contact with her people to set that up, huh?
MackN2U: He conquered a duo-diva song... Mariah AND Whitney? AND he went for the falsetto note… He gets props, brave little boy.
Mello: he's such a cutie-pie…and talented
MackN2U: if you're into that sorta thing
Mello: my pick for the bottom three: it'll be tarantula, fake Carrie, and hippy Brooke
MackN2U: nah, Jason’s got too many teenybopper fans to end up in the bottom 3… It'll be Kristy Lee, Brooke White, and either Carly or Syesha
Mello: yea, I was thinkin Carly since her performance was mediocre
MackN2U: she looked the best she's ever looked last night though
Mello: I think anytime she covers that tat on her arm, she looks good
MackN2U: its like a totally different person…she looked classy last night. Have you seen her husband in the crowd though? The guy with the tats on his face?
Mello: yea, a match made in ink heaven
MackN2U: lol... if they stop showing him, she might get more votes. Speakin of votes, did you see when Ryan tore down that sign that said "Simon for President"? CLASSIC!
Mello: lol yea
MackN2U: those two are in love
Mello: yea, they think they're so undercover, but not really...its actually pretty funny!
TIYMLI: Try It You Might Like It
We live in an era where artists aren’t so limited to genres anymore. Everyone’s crossing over, branching into different areas to widen their fan base. And why not? I mean, if Big Boi can do ballet, then anything’s possible, right? (I’m not kidding…)
Sound-Savvy wants to put you on to some music that you might not listen to on a regular basis, or if you did, you might not admit it…LOL. It’s okay, we’ve all got our guilty pleasures, and we just like to share ours with you. So here’s the first in our set of TIYMLI articles. After all, they’re your ears - satisfy them. Happy listening…
Artist: Maroon 5
Album: It Won't Be Soon Before Long
Video Link
Artist: Drake
Song: Replacement Girl
Album: Comeback Season
Video Link
10 points for ‘keepin’ it real’. Rebound chicks stand up! Degrassi alum Drake has no qualms about it: He ain’t lookin’ at you, he’s lookin past you, whoever you are. Any takers?
Artist: Janelle Monae
Song: Violet Stars Happy Hunting
Album: Metropolis Suite I of IV -"The Chase"
Video Link
Artist: The Jonas Brothers
Song: When You Look Me in The Eyes
Album: The Jonas Brothers
Video Link
10 years ago it was ‘Hanson’ (I dare you to front like you don’t remember "MMMBop!"). Now it’s the Jonas Brothers. They’ve been on tour with kid sensation Hanna Montana, but these youngins got a bit of pop-soul on this sentimental little love song. Cheesy…yes!
Artist: Duffy
Song: Mercy
Album: Rockferry
Video Link
She’s being hailed as the next Amy Winehouse. Yes, her sound is comparable, and if she hopes to avoid that inevitable comparison, she might wanna write a different hook instead of ‘Yeah, yeah, yeah’, which mirrors Winehouse’s ‘No, no, no’ on Rehab. Still, she’s got an old school sound delivered by a great set of pipes. Addiction sold separately…
All the songs listed here can be found on the Sound-Savvy Myspace Page playlist. If you’ve got a song that you think should be a TIYMLI feature, feel free to hit us up.
The Urgency of Now: The Time For Change!
This was a blog I'd done a couple months back, but it's still relevant and I thought I'd share it with you guys. This isn't meant to sway your political views one way or the other, but I think it's important that we each have a view and a voice in the political process. Get informed, and then get out and vote.
'No matter what obstacles stand in our way, nothing can stand in the way of the power of millions of voices calling for change' -Barack Obama-
Politics never really interested me before, and I've never been much of a political person, but it's undeniable that there is a need for change. Some people don't like the idea of government, but we have one, a democracy and it's not all bad, it gives power to the people, but it's time for a change in the way the people have the power. Over the last few months I have closely followed many of the debates in the Democratic Party because I feel it's definitely time for a change. The economy is at a depressing low, the housing market is faltering, and we have troops fighting a war beyond our borders, and frankly beyond our need. When it costs me $50 or more to fill up my tank at the pump, it's time for a change. When I have military friends being called away for duty every few months not knowing when or if they'll return, it's time for change. When foreclosures are at an all time high and our people are struggling to keep roofs over their heads, it's time for change. When the rising cost of healthcare makes you think you'd be better off suffering your illness or taking your chances, it's time for change. When the interest in higher education is at an all-time low because costs for college are at an all time high, it is indeed time for a change. When I can't even get back a third of the taxes that I paid to the government, oh please believe it's time for a change...
This morning I watched the video above. It's done by Will.I.Am and features a host of celebrities in support of Barack Obama. Whether you like him or not, you can't deny the way this man has unified so much of this country. Beyond racial lines, beyond gender, beyond sexual orientation, he has united so many people with his message of change. I'm sure you can tell he has my vote, and I don't expect him to be a perfect president, but I have aligned myself with his campaign because the changes he plans to implement are in line with the changes I want to see in this country and I am most confident that this is the man that can lead us to that change. I encourage everyone, ALL OF YOU to get knowledgeable as it pertains to this election and the state of the world. We are growing into the time in our lives where we are the beneficiaries of the policies put into effect, and it is up to us to make those policies work for us or against us. Learn your candidates, find a position and stand by it. Get involved and vote. Take a look at the video, and note the unity.
-MackN2U-
Kellz and the Golden Fleece!
MackN2U: u heard the latest from Kellz?
Mello: Hair Braider? I haven't heard it yet
MackN2U: man... what a waste
Mello: have u seen his wack Sisqo impression…wit his gold braids?
MackN2U: what?!??? awwwwwwww come on
Mello: check mediatakeout
MackN2U: OMG I see it… Mel, let's join hands
Mello: lol… say a prayer for brother Kelly
MackN2U: Heavenly Father, we know sometimes R. Kelly steps outside of his left and right brains
Mello: he's on overboard
MackN2U: and a lot of times he steps into the realm of extreme bitchassness
Mello: lol
MackN2U: Father God, now is one of those times. We need you to lay hands on your son... and his golden fleece
Mello: he's an artist craving 4 attention
MackN2U: and whatever woman braided that Golden
MackN2U: in the name of the real golden lamb we pray, Amen!
Mello: and he had it sprayed
MackN2U: One thing I will say: that bamma's shape-up is fresh to def!!
Mello: poor Kellz
MackN2U: u know what? Dru Hill is comin back with a new album... maybe Kellz produced a lot of it... and in order to get on Sisqo’s level he had to get into character.
Mello: ..........
MackN2U: okay I was reaching with that one
Mello: lol
MackN2U: oh I can't wait for the video... this is gonna be a riot
Mello: he's lost it
MackN2U: maybe it's the stress of his trial… it's scheduled to actually take place ya know…the day after next to never
Mello: Exactly! He been on trial for decades!
MackN2U: this is the longest almost-trial in history
Mello: the ONLY pedophile to escape
MackN2U: Thank you Diddy, otherwise I wouldn't know how to classify this
Mr. Director... I mean really....??
I’m probably gonna get blasted for this, but I don’t care…
What the hell was the director thinking when he shot this video?? Forgive me for being the cynic when it comes to Benny Boom’s director skills but did he even listen to the lyrics before shooting this video? Don’t get me wrong, Keyshia’s an attractive girl, despite the monstrosity of a tattoo plastered on her right arm… but to waste such a great song on a crappy video is beyond me. Heaven Sent just happens to be one of the best songs she has ever made – from the strumming guitar intro to the fadeout at the end - the song itself could have been sent from heaven!! When I first heard the song, I fell in love with the lyrics, very emotional and deeply relatable. So I expected to see an interpretive video or at least something with some depth. All we got is….HER!! 3 minutes and 57 seconds of Keyshia and the gap (is that considered depth?). Some think she was trying to channel Mary (a la ‘You Are Everything’) but that video was 10 times more graceful. Maybe she wanted to use this video to showcase her new hairstyle… note to Ms. Cole: GET AN ENDORSEMENT (anyone else tired of seeing Kelly Rowland for Dark N’ Lovely in EVERY Vibe mag?).
And maybe I swallowed the dumb pill before I watched this, because really – how many of her other videos correspond with the song? As a fan of both Keyshia Cole and the song, I demand a re-shoot. I can write the treatment. Hell, a fifth grader could write a better treatment. If she wanted a “look-at-me-I’m-so-pretty” video, she should have released the song Just Like You. Am I the only one that feels this way? Ya'll let me know...
A Sweet Sweet Spirit
Title: Spirit
Artist: Leona Lewis
US Release Date: 4.8.08
Everybody needs someone who they can pour their heart and soul into… Here I am… - Leona Lewis
The
At first, I thought a voice this big was best served over balladry, but she’s equally impressive on the up-tempo ‘Misses Glass’ and the bitter mid ‘Take a Bow’ (cause you’ve taken everything else). Johnta Austin (where’s his album anyway??) took the helm on ‘Angel’, another mid-tempo love song complete with the syrupy sweet lyrics ‘For every night I say a prayer, well I swear you are the answer, you’re an angel…’. Undeniably, one of the greatest contributions to this project is ‘Footprints In The Sand’. Accompanied by a tear-jerking video (YouTube it!), the lyrics are meant to touch the soul, and her voice ensures it. This song, among several others, gave me chills.
Like all albums some songs excel beyond others, but there’s really not a bad song on this album. There is a lot of catchiness to the hooks, but hey it’s pop music. The bottom line is this: Leona Lewis may have been discovered on television, but her ‘Spirit’ attests to the fact that she’s no manufactured talent. She’s hailed by many as the second coming of Whitney Houston, and after one listen, you’ll understand why. So clear some room in your MP3 player for some ‘Spirit’ – you’ll be glad you did.
-MackN2U-
Sexy Can I----NOT!
Releasing All I Feel, Mr. Norwood really tries to paint the picture of a hard-core thug. Whoa, I'm really scared of him! He's guaranteed to release decent singles such as Sexy Can I, a track filled with many sexual inuendos, ...Sexy Can I, hit it from the front, can I hit it from the back. It's a tune that you find somewhat enjoyable & wack all at the same time. If thats possible.
This is certified coaster material! Download only if you must. You might find more enjoyment watching him & Kim K. play pattycake.
Idol Chit-chat: Top 8 Rewind
Mello: he rides the wrong people’s nut sack, that dread-headed boy needs to get X’ed!
MackN2U: you know he screwed up the words on Somewhere Over The Rainbow!! I think im the only one that caught that. AND he looked like a pothead last night…
Mello: he's a mess. Ever since they voted my faves off, I have thrown in the towel on this season.
MackN2U: not me... not yet. As much as I wanna see dread-boy go home, his fanbase is too strong. Who were your faves?
Mello: I had two...A'siah Epperson & the gay guy, Danny, only because I enjoyed watching him perform. He was the only one who stood up to Simon. He was poised and very comfortable in his own skin
MackN2U: lol... I'm glad Mr. Purple highlights is gone... but I do think his 'sassiness' added flavor to this season. They should bring him back as a host... to replace Seacrest! Then maybe I'll enjoy that playful banter, right now it looks like flirting. A’siah, I liked her too, I wanted her to stay a while longer
Mello: Danny was funny. I'm glad they voted that rock star screaming chic off, Amanda, I think. She was a hot mess.
MackN2U: yeah, she sucked, her range was so limited... the fact that I didn't recognize half her songs made them all sound the same to me. I couldn't tell what was different from one week to the next!
Mello: she yelled every performance. This year, the pickins’ are slim man!
MackN2U: what do you think of the rocker guy David Cook? I think he could win it
Mello: He definitely has the image
MackN2U: and the sound... did you hear him do Lionel Richie's 'Hello'? And the version of Billie Jean he did... it wasn't original, but damn it was great!!
Mello: I'm biased...ever since they gave the noose to my faves... I haven't been much of a fan
MackN2U: Well we've got a cash pool at work... and right now, for me to stay in my slot I need Brooke to go home!! Bottom three tonight Brooke White, Carly Smithson, and unfortunately probably Syesha
MackN2U: i thought you were a faithful watcher...
Mello: I was…until they kicked my people off
MackN2U: oh... well let me fill u in: Kristy Lee a.k.a. the horse chic, is holdin on by a thin thread... I don't think she's as talented as she is pretty
MackN2U: Brooke White's got this 'good girl' thing goin on... But
Mello: LOL
MackN2U: Syesha is gonna be forever plagued by bad song choices. Just because Idol gives you the platform to imitate your idols doesn't mean you always have to. As much as I hate to admit it, she DOES choose songs that are too big for her. I didn't think she sounded bad last night, but I do agree she shouldn't have done that song. I mean come on, that song defined Fantasia as the American Idol... if you can't outsing her, don't mess with it. Besides, she’s in my top three in the pool so she needs to stick around.
MackN2U: Michael Johns could probably get the vote for most likely to improve, but he already had a deal before the show so he's kinda got an unfair advantage. The leveling factor is that he's a mediocre performer against his competition this season. He'll make it a little further but he won't win
MackN2U: Carly Smithson: a clear case of 'image is everything'. Clearly, she's got the voice... hell she had a deal AND an album before the show... so why's she even on there? Ask the producers... her downfall is not her voice (though it was last night), it's wardrobe. Her clothes never compliment her body. One week they thought she was pregnant because of the 'smedium' dress she was wearing that overly accentuated her pudge.
MackN2U: The real competition rests on the shoulders of the 2 Davids: Archuleta and Cook.
Mello: in that case, I'm rooting for Archuleta, he's the youngest now in the entire competition.
MackN2U: Well you've got a good choice if u stick with Archuleta. The kids got a damn near flawless voice, he performs as if he's 27 instead of 17, and most weeks so far he's outperformed everyone else. His downfall can be his song choice… the problem is, he’s chosen songs no one’s ever heard of. If he doesn't win the title of American Idol, he'll win the award for biggest upset of Season 7… especially from all his teenybopper fans. Did u see that “Lick your lips” sign the girl was holding up for him last night? Where are the censors!!
MackN2U: David Cook, however, is a true competitor... he picks lesser known arrangements of some popular songs, so that silly people like me will think that they're his own arrangement, therefore giving him extra credit. Original or not, this dude's got some undeniable performance ability. But his downfall may be his own arrogance. Though I don't think he was as 'pompous' as the judges said last night, I have noticed his arrogance in previous weeks and if it's one thing America will do, its deflate an over-inflated ego.
Mello: spoken like a true critic, Mack
The Emancipation Duplication
Title: E=MC2
Release Date: 4.15.08
Let’s start with the collaborations. Take out Snoop, Twista and Nelly from the last album; substitute T-Pain (‘Migrate’), Damian Marley (‘Cruise Control’), and Young Jeezy (‘Side Effects’). It’s hard to tell whether ‘Side Effects’ was written recently or 10 years ago, with lyrics fresh from a heart break, unfolding the open wounds and residual emotions from her 4-year marriage to Tommy Mottola. However, she quickly turns from prey to predator on the confidently sassy ‘I’m That Chick’: I’m like that ooh wee you’re fiendin to blaze up and taste me, got flava like ice cream, cause I’m that chick you like…”
The ballads on this album aren’t quite the powerhouses that allowed Mariah to dominate much of the 90’s. Still, there’s a worthy mix of melody and the power of both Mariah’s signature falsetto and full-voice vocals. ‘I Stay In Love’ is lyrically reminiscent of her decade-old smash ‘Breakdown’ – minus Layzie, Krayzie and Wish. Then there’s the heart-strong ‘Last Kiss’ for the adversity-defying lovers. Other notable songs on the record include the brokenhearted ‘Thanks 4 Nothing’, and the B. Cox flavored ‘For The Record’, a last ditch effort to reclaim the love.
The vocal highlight of the CD is the gospel infused ‘I Wish You Well’. Armed with a powerful message (Do good to those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you…) and a stunning display of Mariah’s classic vocals, this track closes the CD on a high note, literally and spiritually. Preceding the closer is the somber ‘Bye Bye’ where the premise of ‘One Sweet Day’ meshes with the production of ‘We Belong Together’.
Mariah wrote/co-wrote and co-produced every track on this project, including the sensual lead single ‘Touch My Body’ her 18th #1 single. She’s poised to tie or overtake the Beatles, who currently hold the title with 20 #1 hits. The one thing this album lacks, however, is the power ballads that have separated Mariah from her competition through much of her career. Still she delivers some of the most relatable lyrical content of any active R&B artist in the game. It seems Mariah has found the happy medium between what her longtime fans have always loved, and what the new generation listens for. So despite the minor shortcomings, we can all be thankful for Mimi’s emancipation…and beyond!
-MackN2U-
Heart of the City in Chocolate City!
Concert Review of 'The Heart of The City Tour'
Location: Verizon Center, Washington, DC
Date: 4.6.08
If you missed this, count your losses! There aren't enough postings on youtube to capture this once in a lifetime experience. Folks might argue once you've seen one Jigga or Mary performance, you've seen them all, but clearly nothing tops this. What do you get when you add two artists at the top of their career & one sold out venue?? PURE MAGIC!!! They each have enough chart topping hits to entertain without any ounce of a complaint from their fans. Not to mention the wasted time of an opening act, which by the way, SUCKED! No offense to those who enjoyed hearing Mr. American Dream sound like a cat on its death bed, but, the only shining moment to his alloted ten minutes were the retro Jordan IX's.
The minutes leading up to the main event seemed like an eternity. Fans chanting each artists' names respectively in anticipation of who was to perform first. HOUSE LIGHTS OUT! The mini convo between Mary & Jay-Z explaining Heart of the City captures everyones attention, then the countdown begins; 5,4,3,2,1! Enter the guests of honor of the evening performing Can't Knock the Hustle. The first of many crowd pleasing hits.
Many kudos goes out to the production team responsible for the lighting, pyro techniques, and each back-drop, helping to make the experience memorable. Mary's solo performance took us back down memory lane, with hits like Real Love, Reminisce, Sweet Thing, just to name a few, before bringing us to present day with Just Fine & Stay Down. She performed with much intensity & heart, bringing the fans to their feet in applause.
Mr. Carter knows how to bring 'em out. He emptied the entire clip without having to re-load. Throw ya diamonds in the sky! His swagger was on overload, and he knew it. Fans chanting the lyrics to not one, but ALL his songs. Letting the cat out the bag with with hits from Reasonable Doubt, Blueprint & the Black Album, Hov took us on one up& down rollercoaster ride with many unexpected turns. My highlight of the night was Money over bitches...FUCK BUSH. There were so many hype moments, but not enough time nor space to highlight them all, however, they closed the show with You're All Welcome, a song, dedicated to their fans. No matter where you sat, or how much money you paid for your ticket, the show was well worth it. Lets hope Heart of the City makes it to your nearest Circuit City or Best Buy as a collectors item for many years to come, because it definately was an UPGRADE to Best of Both Worlds.
Remembering Dr. King
SoundSavvy Blast or Trash: Singles Review
SoundSavvy runs down some of the latest tracks to hit the airwaves. Here's what we think, tell us what you think! Feel free to comment!
MackN2U: Let's talk singles... How u feel about 'Touch My Body’?
Mello: its sexy wit a psycho feel to it… if u catch my drift
MackN2U: yeah, exactly... I might like for Mariah to hunt me down, so uploading to Youtube might actually be worth it...
MackN2U: U heard Elevators by Flo-Rida?
Mello: he's wack 2 me so I always turn him off
MackN2U: I think his 15 seconds are just about up
Mello: 'No Air' by Chris Brown and Jordin Sparks?
MackN2U: I'm really diggin that joint... its such a sappy love song
Mello: young love....so cute
MackN2U: yeah, as long as they don't screw it up with a remix featuring Bow Wow or that damn Juelz Santana
Mello: aye, aye! LOL!! How bout...Pharrell’s protege' Teyana Taylor?
MackN2U: what she sing?
Mello: Google Me Baby! Catchy song...this chic can do it all, skateboard, sing, rap, dance... she's a one woman machine
MackN2U: lol... people will make a song about anything these days
Mello: its catchy tho
MackN2U: so is ‘Ring Around the Rosie’… she's a gimmick... gone in 60 seconds...Now if you want catchy... Ray J.'s new joint is like a nursery rhyme, but it’s hot
Mello: yea, I like it..
MackN2U: his albums just never measure up... I still want my damn money back for Raydiation!!
Mello: LOL! I agree...he brings decent singles then the albums tend 2 flop
MackN2U: To be honest, I don't think there's anything spectacular about Love In This Club
Mello: I think it’s the anticipation of Ushers arrival back on the scene
MackN2U: I mean, it's aight, it's only gettin’ so much airplay because it's Usher though
Mello: that makes the track better
MackN2U: Okay I'mma have a wack moment, because although I can't stand Lil Mama, 'Shawty Get Loose' is a hot track…or maybe just Chris Brown and T-Pain make it hot!
Mello: that might be it
MackN2U: listening to 4 Minutes by Madonna and JT… Is that a Timbaland beat? Kinda nice…
Mello: Weezy and ‘Lollipop’…what's up wit everyone on their Roger Troutman these days?
MackN2U: T-pain brought that whole sound back... and its catching on like every other trend. Even the kids on American Idol are using the voice box. I really like this song though!!
Mello: Speakin’ of Idol…where's Ruben? :-(
MackN2U: absent... well ya know he's got that new song that they play when someone gets eliminated...
Mello: LOL @ absent
MackN2U: Celebrate Me Home... it's got a Gospel feel to it... nice song though... uplifting. When he makes a comeback, then we can celebrate him back!!
Mello: IF he makes a comeback!
Big Little Voice
Title: Little Voice
Artist: Sara Bareilles
Release Date: 7.3.07
We can understand the sentiment you're saying to us oh, but sensible sells so could you kindly shut up... - Sara Bareilles on her next single 'Bottle It Up'
Alright it’s not a brand new release, so sue me. Actually, sue the band-waggoner in me for jumping on late. Little Voice is the sophomore release from California-bred singer Sara Bareilles. I’d call it soul-rock with a touch of pop. There’s a lot of talent packaged here: she wrote all but one song with lyrical depth and her vocals soar on mostly every track. This CD is best experienced with a mixed drink or a glass of wine in hand, half-empty of course.
I’m not sure whether the title for this album was derived from her sense of humor or humility but I assure you, the voice behind the music is anything but little. The album’s piano-driven lead single ‘Love Song’ demonstrates that quite effectively and sets the tone for the project. Its confident swagger (yes she’s got swagger) showcases her vocals along with her lyrical prowess. ‘Come Round Soon’ is clearly the love song she said she wouldn’t write for him to stay; naïveté overrides reality and she finds herself chained to a heart that belongs to another. He’s taken and leaving but I keep believing that he’s gonna come round soon… Later on the album, ‘Between the Lines’ picks up where the aforementioned track left off. You and me, always between the lines… This time reality wins the battle in this showcase of beautiful balladry. Bareilles kicks it up a bit on the widely relatable ‘Many The Miles’, an upbeat song about the road to true happiness and the hurdles to reach that final destination. She brings it back to an even mid-tempo with ‘Love on the Rocks’, a cozy feel-good groove (still got that drink?). Switching gears a bit, the bass-thumping ‘Vegas’ is more guitar heavy and highlights superficialities of perceived ‘success’ and the misconceptions of what it takes to be considered relevant. The effect of all these factors is totaled up into a loss of self, felt on the downhearted follow-up ‘City’.
Sara Bareilles has arrived, and this project is definitely worth the investment and time. She’s a true musician, playing piano on most of her album and writing nearly every song. Her lyrics tell a story of a journey traveled, and experiences seemingly beyond her 28 years. Little Voice may be a sleeper hit, but given more exposure, that little voice is going to make a big impact.