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Showing posts with label Album Review. Show all posts

New music release: Destiny's Child edition



Ladies and gentlemen, I'm back with a brand new Destiny's Child edition of new music releases!!! These lovely ladies have been on FIRE on this past year!!! The only thing better would be a complete DC reunion. Billboard named Destiny's Child ranked them as one of the greatest trio's of all time, the ninth most successful artist/band in the 2000s, and finally they rank number 68 in its All-time Hot 100 artists in 2008. So without further a due I give you new singles from the ladies of DC!!!


Beyonce:

She is the most successful and well known member of the group after their separation in 2005. She has starred in movies such as "Austin Powers: Goldmember", "The Fighting Temptations", "Dreamgirls" and "Obsessed". Her first album "Dangerously in love" was released in 2003. Since then she has released four other albums including her self-titled surprise album that was just released earlier this year.  Her new song partition is absolutely amazing!!! Between her vocals and the bass in this song it is sure to be a song at party this summer!! Check it out below:


Kelly Rowland:

Since the disbandment, Kelly has also appeared in movies such as, "Freddy vs. Jason", "The seat filler" and "Think like a man". She released her debut album, "Simply deep" in 2002. Along with rapper Nelly, she produced a worldwide #1 single "Dilemma". In 2007 she released her second album, "Ms. Kelly" and in 2011 her third album, "Here I am". Rowland was one of the four judges on this past season of the X-Factor. Her fourth album "Talk a good game" was released earlier in 2013, with the hit single "kisses down low". One of her favorite songs off her new album is "I remember". It has a great beat and her vocals are absolutely amazing. I say work Ms. Rowland work!!! Check it out below.


Michelle Williams:

She is a singer/songwriter, model, record producer, actress and now owns the WNBA team Chicago Sky. Williams released her first album, "Heart to yours" which became the top selling gospel release of 2002. In 2004, she released her second gospel album "Do you know". After Destiny's Child disbanded in 2005, she released her first pop album, "Unexpected" in 2008. Currently, she is making a return to inspirational music with her up and coming album "Journey to freedom". The lead single of this album, "If we had your eyes" features Fantasia. I don't think I can think of a better single to lead off her album. Both women do a fantastic job with this uplifting, inspirational song. Check it out below!


In my only hope for a Destiny's Child reunion, I give you a bonus song!!! Beyonce and Michelle joined Kelly in the studio and recorded "You changed" to be apart of Kelly's album "Talk a good game". So without further a due, here it is ladies and gentleman;



The Digital Marketing Queen, Beyonce


(Courtesy of Billboard.com)
Beyonce' is one of the most recognizable female pop artist of our generation. However, the focus of today's topic will highlight her business side. I will illustrate the top four smartest digital marketing moves made by Beyonce'. These moves will focus on the recent release of her self-titled new album, "Beyonce."

(Courtesy of spin.com)
Just for fun, we will illustrate her remarkable digital marketing achievements by using some of her most memorable musical titles.

 (Courtesy of Bennetknows,com)
(Courtesy of Healthshire.com)

 "Crazy In Love"

Fan's are "Crazy in Love" with Beyonce and she know's it. She completely understands her influence on her fans, but more importantly, she knows her target audience. With the industry trends constantly changing to a more digital platform, Beyonce did something that had not been dared before. She literally released a whole album with solely the help of digital marketing. She revolutionized the music industry by taking advantage of the technology and the current media trends.

(Courtesy of Vimeo)

"Upgrade You"

Beyonce spent years "Upgrading" her online visibility. She utilized every single social media network to push her image, brand, and music. Her social network connection created a unique experience  with fans and allowed her to personally engage her fans on a different level. Not to mention her sold out world-wide tour, documentary, and popular music snippets played a significant role. 

(Courtesy of Alothmanblog.com)

"Run the World"

Beyonce's exclusive deal with iTunes controlled distribution and created a sense of urgency. Think about it, how many artist can say they caused a world-wide shock simply by releasing their album? Beyonce can! Let me tell you why! Beyonce's album was released strictly on iTunes first. In fact, to get the new content on her album, the consumer had to buy the exclusive videos that came with the music.  Furthermore, with the album only being sold through iTunes, fans could only go to one place to buy her exclusive released content. With iTunes being accessible from any smartphone, laptop, or computer, fans could  literally buy the album and watch the videos that came with the music instantly. She literally controlled the way the "World" received her new content. 

(Courtesy of Thecouchsessions.com)

"Drunk in Love"

Last, but not least,  moving visuals are more appealing then ads. This important lesson was the key to Beyonce's success. She had fans" Drunk in Love" simply by mesmerizing them with her own visual digital promotion. Literally she created a buzz on social networks by the exclusive promotional video she released on her Instagram. Check it out below...


Beyonce literally announced her music via Instagram and caused a riot on all the blogs, social networks, and television shows. She literally revolutionized the way music and cd's are now being released.

So, the lesson you can learn from the Queen B goes as followed...

1. Know your Target Audience
2. Upgrade all major Social Networks
3. Create Urgency and control Distribution
4. Captivate Your Audience with Visual Appeal

These top 4 lessons are the new digital marketing rules for musical artist.

References:
http://simplymeasured.com/blog/2013/12/17/5-things-brands-can-learn-from-beyonce/

http://blogs.gartner.com/jennifer-polk/the-media-the-medium-and-visual-storytelling-what-digital-marketers-can-learn-from-beyonce/

http://instagram.com/p/h2YFO6Pw1d

Educational News : Entertainment Lawyers vs. Digital Landscape


Listening to music is the universal pastime for billions across the globe. The different sounds and genres resonate for millions to hear. However, in the world of music, a battle wages on. 

In fact, this war has caused many casualties in the fight between entertainment lawyers and the impact the digital landscape has on them and their musical artist. 

The music industry has changed so much. In fact, many dramatic changes have taken place recently. . According to an article entitled "Digital Explosion Changes Landscape for Entertainment Lawyers", this new age of digital media has made a dramatic shift in how music is being marketed. For example, CDs are soon going to be extinct. In fact, history has already shown how quick technology can eliminate past commodities. For instance, the predecessor of CDs was tapes. Now Cd's will soon become the predecessors to digital platforms. 



However, what can entertainment lawyers do about marketing their artist's work? Physical copies of cd's are no longer the buzz for teenagers or adults. With the demise of CDs, there has been a decrease in revenue for cd sales which means major record labels are slowly but surely losing money. 

So what do entertainment lawyers, artist, and musicians focus on to market their work? It's simple, digital media. New technology has made music simpler and less expensive to create. Social networking such as Facebook, Myspace, iTunes, and YouTube have made it very simple to get music directly to consumers. 



However, what does that mean to the job security of entertainment lawyers? Well, the subject has caused a huge divide. According the the Digital Explosion article, not all entertainment lawyers are embracing the change. One entertainment lawyer, Courtney Coates stated, "the digital medium has impacted the time, place, and manner in which we experience all forms of media, especially in music." If entertainment lawyers are going to survive in this industry they must learn the new trends to better equip themselves to the times. 


What do you think my fellow bloggers? Has the digital landscape had a tremendous impact on entertainment lawyers? What opinions do you have on the situation. 

Album Review, Justin Timberlake


Are you ready for the second part of the experience? After hearing the first part of the 20/20 experience left me wanting more from Justin. I couldn't wait for part 2. The wait is finally over and the full experience is well ready for you to experience. Justin is back and in true fashion. 

Justin Timberlake
This former Nsync member has been making hits on his own for years now. After releasing his last solo album in 2006, we've been waiting for another wonderful album. He gave us features on songs with Madonna, and The Lonely Island just to name a few and continued his acting career in movies such as "In time" and "The Social Network". In early March of this year he released part 1 of "The 20/20 Experience" which debuted at #1 on the charts selling just over 980,000 copies. This album featured hits "Suit and Tie" and "Mirrors". He has been non stop working whether it is in music or movies

With the leading single "Take back the night" the final installment of "The 20/20 experience" debuted at #3 on the itunes chart. This album is something that you have never heard of. The experience is a sound that we have not heard from Justin before. This album combines the sound of classic big band sound with today's pop. I was a little disappointed with the album and often found myself being bored because most of the songs sound the same. There is also no clear dance hit like those we are used to from JT. However, the album is still good and a must hear. Overall, I would give this album a 4 out of 5. 

Album Weaknesses
-Song length
- the songs almost sound the same
- has one random country sounding song that doesn't go with the theme

Album Strengths
- mixing big band sounds with R&B flow
-nothing like anything else you hear today
-The features on the album are amazing (Drake and Jay-Z)

Favorite Songs
"Not a bad thing"
"Amnesia"
"Drink you away"
"Take back the night"

Check out the album below:




Album Review, TGT, Three Kings Album


If you are looking for some R&B greatness from some phenomenal male vocalist, than the Three Kings album is for you. The album takes you back to what the entertainment industry is missing today, pure talent!

The Three Kings album was created by the new trio TGT, which was assembled with three very well known R&B soloist who came together in 2007 to make an exciting new male group. The group includes Tyrese, Ginuwine, and Tank. All three men have had tremendous success as solo artist, but now they have come together to bring R&B back.

However, if you are unfamiliar with the three legendary R&B singers of the 90s, let me update you.

To begin, lets start with artist, Tyrese Gibson.


The Texas native started his career modeling for major designers such as Tommy Hilfiger and Guess. Fortunately, his passion for music led him to catching the eye of RCA Records who signed the artist in 1998. Since 1998, Tyrese has been on a roll. He has created six albums and has made it to Platinum Success. He currently is very active in film. In fact, his most notable movie performance is his signature character Rome, from the Fast and Furious franchise.

Tyrese continues to make waves with his music, acting, modeling, and now his new group TGT. Check out some of his well known hit songs such as "Sweet Lady" "How You Going to Act Like That", and "Signs of Love Making."

Next, we have Ginuwine.


The D.C. Native to date is one of the 90s Top R&B male singers. His success came from a multitude of hit songs one after the other. His most notable accomplishments came from songs such as "Pony,""So Anxious," "So Different," and "In Those Jeans." His first single "Pony" put the artist on a fast track to success. He has worked with artist such as Missy Elliot, Aaliyah, and Timberland just to name a few. He currently produces and has found his voice in the new TGT group.

Last but not least, we have Tank.


Tank is not only an accomplished singer but a well respect songwriter. His pen has created hits for his fellow group members and other artists such as Aaliyah, Marques Houston, Monica, Dave Hollister, Jamie Foxx, Chris Brown, and a lot of other phenomenal R&B talents. He has released five solo albums, two would become certified Gold. His most notable song which landed him in the Top 10 on the billboard charts was his 90s powerhouse song, "Maybe I Deserve."Tank definitely brings the strong vocals to the TGT album with his captivating fast riffs and runs.

Now that we are up to date with the members of the group, lets talk more about this Three Kings Album. The CD has 17 tracks filled with ballads, mid tempo melodies, and catchy songs. The one thing the CD does lack is upbeat songs. However, with the high sexualized lyrics and smooth harmonies, the CD is sure to make female listeners weak in the knees. The CD will even give some guys pointers in the love department. Their lead singles are "Sex Never Felt Better" and "I Need" which gives that throwback R&B feel. The CD is a definite necessity if you need to get a date into the bedroom.

Strengths
Vocals are amazing, pure R&B, and a very smooth type of CD.

Weaknesses 
The songs start sounding very similar after hearing the CD for a while. The CD's focus is mostly on sex & love. The CD needs to have more of a diverse sound. An upbeat song every now and then would help carry a stronger cd.

Favorite Songs on the Album
1.Take it Wrong
4. I Need
11.Explode
13.OMG

The CD is a must buy and I give the CD a 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.

Check out their lead single "Sex Never Felt Better." Also preview the album here.


Album Review, Janelle Monae


Are  you looking for an amazing new album that you can listen to straight through? Well, look no further, Janelle Monae's sophomore album Electric Lady is just what you are looking for.

With it's first week on the charts "Electric Lady" has locked up the 2nd best R&B album placing just behind The Weekend's "Kiss Land". Monae's newest album experiments with genres that are beyond the conventional funk and soul including jazz, pop-punk, Gospel and powerful vocal ballads.


I could not imagine a better 1st single off this album than "Q.U.E.E.N. ft. the great Erykah Badu. It contains one of the baddest guitar riffs I've heard in the opening of the song. Other artists featured on this amazing album include Prince, Miguel, Solange and Esperanza Spalding.

Since her 1st album Monae has been very busy. Jumping on tracks with artists including Fun, and Estelle. In August of 2012 she joined the likes of artists Beyonce and Queen Latifah in becoming the newest spokeswoman for CoverGirl.

While it is hard to chose just one favorite song off of the album I would have to chose "Give them what they want" ft. Prince. This song has an amazing bass that will be rattling your speakers. Overall I give this album a 5 out of 5. There aren't to many albums these days that you can just listen straight through without skipping songs. Check out the whole album here:

Album Review, Tamar Braxton


The month of September has been amazing to one well known artist in the R&B genre. With her recent album release this month, fans have been proactive in supporting her great product of R&B excellence. However, if you haven't had the opportunity to hear her artistry, then continue reading the review on her new album that is causing waves on R&B charts.

Tamar Braxton
If you haven't heard about the talented Tamar Braxton, you have been living under a rock. The beautiful blonde songstress has the voice, attitude, and charisma to pull off one of the greatest R&B albums of this summer. The feisty singer is the youngest sister of Toni Braxton and new mommy to baby Logan. She currently is a talk show host, reality superstar, and did I forget to mention a phenomenal singer.  The powerhouse vocalist made major waves after releasing her ballet "Love and War" which stayed at #1 for nine weeks on the BillBoard Adult Contemporary R&B Charts followed by her second single "The One" which ranked at #3. Both singles are featured on her new album and continue to cause a buzz on the radio airwaves.

Her new album, titled "Love & War" was released on September 3rd and has been heating up the charts. The album is full of smooth R&B ballads, funky diva club anthems, beautiful mid tempo showcases, and even a little gospel. The album in it's first week sold over 114,000 copies many of her fellow female R&B counterparts. With her Cd being sold at $11, the Love and War artist sold more than one million dollars in revenue in the first week of her album. With hits on the album such as, "All the Way Home," "Love & War," "The One," and "Hot Sugar" the album is sure to bring you too your feet or bust out a tune in the shower.  Out of 5 stars, I give Tamar's Album a 4.5 out of 5. To preview her new album click here.

Album Strengths
Very diverse sound, great lyrics, and ear grabbing music filled with great beats and melodies.

Album Weaknesses
There are too many slow ballads placed after one another on the album. An upbeat song in between some of the ballads would make the album seem more fluent. Other than that, great album.

Click below to hear her latest single on the album "All the Way Home."