Email us with any ideas of content and music you want to see!
e-mail: eclecticurbanmd@gmail.com
Showing posts with label New Releases. Show all posts

New Music Releases!


I know it's been awhile since you've had some new music in your life, but have no fear I am back with another installment!! This week we have some very talented artists in our lineup. Most are up and coming artists and one is a very popular well known figure. All three artist's songs will have you jammin' while you try and get through the very last of this winter season.

Jennifer Hudson:
This singer, actress and spokesperson is back in action with her new single featuring T.I. Hudson was a finalist on American Idol in 2004, finishing in seventh place. This was one of the most shocking moments when she was surprisingly eliminated. In 2006, she made her acting debut in the movie "Dreamgirls. Her performance earned her an Academy Award for best supporting actress, a Golden Globe Award, a BAFTA award, the NAACP image award and a Screen Actors Guild Award. In 2008, she won a Grammy for her debut album "Jennifer Hudson". Later in 2008, Hudson stepped out of the public eye for three months after her mother, brother and nephew were all killed in a shooting. She released her second album "I remember me" in 2011. She recentley cut ties with weight watchers after losing 80lbs. Now she is back with her brand new single featuring TI, "I can't describe (the way i feel)". This song is sure to put you in a good mood. It will sure to be the perfect summer jam for you and your boo. Check it out below:


Mateo:
Iman Jordan also known as Mateo is a pop/R&B singer/songwriter from Cincinnati, OH. He was originally signed with myspace records before departing with them in 2010. He is now signed to the Krucial Noise imprint of Interscope Records. He is under the Alicia Keys imprint, who along with her husband swizz beatz have been featured on one of his songs. Since 2009 Mateo has released five mixtapes and one EP. His latest mixtape "suite 823" was released in 2012. His track "Carry on" has to be one of my favorites. The mix between the catching and interesting beat and his soothing, unique voice, makes the perfect combination for a great song. He is sure to become one of the next superstars, just wait in see. Check out "Carry On' below:


The Kid Ryan:
Ryan J. Garcia also known as The Kid Ryan, was born in Fresno, California. At 10 years old he started singing for his church youth group. It was there where he learned how to sing, play the drums, guitar and the piano. In high school he started to pick up rapping as a hobby. However, it wasn't until after high school that he started to pursue music professionally. At the age of 22, he signed his first record deal. Now on the verge of releasing his debut project earlier this year. His debut single "Run that" is pure fire and when I say that I mean it. His smooth rap skills are highly impressive and I can't wait to hear more from him. To hear "Run that" check it out below:


Don't forget to check back soon to see more new releases!!!!

New Music Release!!!


Hey everyone!!! I know it's been awhile since you've had some new music in your lives, but have no fear we are back in gear. This week we have some up and coming names with hits that are sure to get your speakers bumping.

Childish Gambino
This American actor, writer, comedian and hip hop recording artist also known as Childish Gambino is from Stone Mountain, Georgia. He was a writer for NBC's comedy series "30 Rock". However, he is best known for his role as college student Troy Barnes on NBC's "Community". In 2011 Gambino was signed to Glassmate records and released several albums and mixtapes on his own. In November of 2011 he released his first album "Camp". His second album "Because the Internet" was actually just released a couple of days ago. Gambino is sure to be star in 2014! Check out his latest single 3005!!!


August Alsina
Alsina is a hip hop singer from New Orleans. His family had no musical talent, however at a young age he was inspired by Lauryn Hill in the movie "Sister Act 2". He started uploading videos to YouTube at the age of 14. He was signed to Def Jam recordings. In April 2012, Alsina released his first mixtape called "The Product". In January of 2013 he released his first single "I Luv this Sh*t" (ft. Trinidad James).  His new single "ghetto" is an awesome song however, for this week's new release I chose to go with one of his songs off of his mixtape "The Product 2" called "work". I can't stop playing this song between the catchy hook and the beat it is a sure fire hit. Check it out below!!!



Drew32
Andrew Parks better known as Drew32 is a Greek-American rapper, record producer and songwriter from Michigan. He is reported to be an emerging influence in hip hop. At the age of 13 Drew started producing, rapping, writing and recording music. In early 2010, he gained his 1st national notoriety when his music video for "Beyond Me" was added to FuseTV and Comcast Ondemand. In 2012, he was one of 18 artists who were selected to compete in the 2012 Billboard Music Awards Battle of the Bands by Billboard Magazine. Since 2007 he has released 10 mixtapes including his new one released this year, "The Batch vol. 1". This mixtape is absolutely amazing and is a must listen to!!! His new single "True Colors" is sure to be a hit!!!

I hope you enjoy these new music releases!!! Until next time, enjoy these soon to be hits!!!!

Love and Hip Hop: New York Premiere


The wait is finally over! Love and Hip Hop NY is back on VH1 and is taking reality television to the next level. The season 4 premiere began on October 28th and fans are in shock over the new drama and cast.

If you aren't familiar with the Love and Hip Hop series, then let me enlighten you. The show follows the business and personal lives of rappers, artist, models, and managers in the entertainment industry. The show is full of music, drama, intense love affairs, and live performances. The show debuted in  2011 and was created by entertainment mogul, Mona Scott Young. The show has gained national attention and has become one of the most watch reality television shows in the last two years.

The new season began by introducing familiar faces such as Yandy Smith, Erica Mena, K. Michelle, Tahiri, Joe Budden, and Rich Dollarz from previous Love and Hip Hop seasons. Shortly after, we were introduced to newcomers Peter Gunz, Tara Wallace, and Amina Buddafly.

In the first 15 minutes of the show, cast member Yandy Smith had a variety of good and bad news. She opened up about her relationship with incarcerated fiancé, Mendecee.

Last season, Mendecee turned himself in for a drug trafficking charge with a mandatory sentence of 20 years. Smith revealed her feelings about the situation and having to potentially raise their new child alone.  Check out the clip below to listen to the conversation between Mendecee and Yandy.


However, on a positive side of things, Yandy revealed her business relationship with manager Rich Dollarz. They announced their new label venture and are looking for new talent. The announcement was revealed at a showcase. The revelation caught the eye of rapper and manager Peter Gunz. Gunz immediately introduced Amina Buddafly to Yandy and Rich Dollarz. Amina got on stage to perform and blew the audience away.


During Amina's performance viewers started to notice an erie flirtation between Amina Buddafly and Peter Gunz. In fact, it was later revealed Amina and Gunz were involved with one another. Confusingly enough, Gunz is currently together with his baby mother Tara Wallace who was in attendance of the showcase. Sounds like a potential problem will be arising soon.

After the showcase, Amina and Peter Gunz met with Rich Dollarz to talk about plans for Amina. However, Peter Gunz began to speak privately about their his relationship with Amina to his best friend Rich Dollarz. The business meeting soon became a intervention between Rich Dollarz, Amina, and Gunz. Rich Dollarz  discussed the impacts of mixing business and pleasure. He talked about his past encounters with the issue and warned them about what could potentially happen.


Oddly enough, the show would end with Amina revealing that she was Peter Gunz's wife. The shock caused an upset on the blogs and people were confused. How could Amina Buddafly be Gunz's wife when he is currently in a relationship with another woman?

The season premiere did not disappoint and I am sure there will be a fight in the near future. However, I have a question for my readers. Is it smart for a manager to have a romantic relationship with their artist? In my opinion, I think it is unprofessional. When you start to have a romantic relationship with your artist, it could provoke a whole new set of issues. For example, what if Gunz (the manager) takes on another female artist that Amina (the artist) feels is getting to much attention? Wouldn't that cause problems to the brand, music, and business that take place? Let me know your opinions on the issue!

Last, but not least, make sure to tune in every Monday on VH1 at 8pm to catch the new episodes of Love and Hip Hop NY.

New Music Releases!!!!


Who's ready for the all lady's edition of New Music Releases? This week we have one artist who has been in the music scene for a while and who is back for the first time in a couple of years. An up and coming artist who has made a name for herself by being a feature on some of today's top artists songs. Finally, we have a new artist who is just starting to gain fame. Ladies and gentlemen the wait is over, let's begin.

Ledisi
This 8 time Grammy nominated singer- songwriter, actress is known for her jazz influenced vocals. In 1995 she formed a group called Anibade and was unsuccessful in getting them signed to a major label. She then created LeSun records with Sundra Manning and released an album along with Anibade. In 2000 Ledisi released her first studio album entitled, "Soulsinger: The Revival". Since then she has released three other studio albums, the last one being in 2009. Her new single "I blame U" is truly a piece of art. With her soothing her vocals combined with a relaxing yet rocking beat makes you want to get up and dance. This truly takes me back to when R&B was so much more soulful. "I blame U" is a song you must listen:


Skylar Grey
Skylar Grey is an American multi-instrumental, singer-songwriter. She was initially signed in 2006 and released her first album under the name Holly Brooks. She has been featured on several tracks including Fort Minors "where'd ya go", Diddy-dirty Money's "Coming home", Dr Dre's "I need a Doctor", Lupe Fiasco's "Words I never said" and Chris Brown's "She ain't you". Grey also co-wrote the three versions of "Love the way you lie" (Eminem and Rihanna). She released her first major label debut album, "Don't Look Down" in July of this year. "Final warning" is an awesome song especially with Skylar's wonderful vocals. I hope you enjoy, check it out below:


Justine Skye
Justine Skye rose to fame by being herself and by letting her talent shine. In 2010, Skye covered Drake's "Headlines" and racked up nearly 2 million views on Youtube. She then attended a BMI musical panel and wowed them with her incredible vocals. Since then she has taken singing lessons, and wrote songs about everyday life. Her seven track EP helped her get signed to Atlantic Records. Skye combines traditional 90s soul, but also adds elements of hip hop and alternative and dubstep to create a unique sound unlike any other that you hear today. Check out her new single "Everyday Living" below:



Until next time, rock out to these lovely ladies!!!!

New Music Releases!!!


This week we have new releases from a hip hop artist who speaks his view in his raps, a true, underrated R&B artist and finally a up and coming R&B artist who is slowly starting to make waves in the industry. So ready or not let's get started!!!

Lupe Fiasco
This American rapper, producer, and entrepreneur is back with a brand new hit featuring Ed Sheeran. Fiasco first became famous after his debut album, "Lupe Fiasco: Food and Liquor" in 2006. Since then he has released three other albums including "The cool" (2007), "Lasers" (2011), and "Food and Liquor II: The Great American Rap Album pt:1" (2012). Fiasco is also the lead in a rock band, Japanese Cartoon under his real name Wasalu Muhammad Jaco. Lupe is also known for his anti-establishment views which can be heard in his music and interviews. His new single "Old school love" has a smooth hook which is sung by Ed Sheeran. It's so smooth and I will be rocking out to this song in my car for sure!!! Check it out below:


Donell Jones
Jones first hit the music scene in 1996 but his first album didn't receive much success. It wasn't until the release of his second album "Where I wanna be" in 1999 did he receive the recognition he deserved. "Where I wanna be" went certified platinum. Most will recognize some of his songs from movies including "I'll Go" (Love and Basketball), and "U know whats up" featuring Lisa "Left Eye" Lopez (Save the Last Dance). Jones is a true R&B artist and in my opinion one of the most underrated artists today. His soulful smooth voice is a great example of what true R&B is. He recently just release his new album "forever" earlier this year (watch out for this album review). His single "Forever" is so smooth and an instant slow jam!! If you want to hear a true artist check out Donell's new single below:


B-Smooth
He is an up and coming R&B phenomenon from the metro Detroit Area. He's also the hype man for Detroit hip hop artist Drew 32. He's been quoted as being inspired by a large range of R&B legends including Alexander O'Neal, Usher, Rahem Devaughn and Tank. His catchy hooks and relatable lyrical content provides him with his own original style of artistry. In August of 2012 he released his own debut solo project, "The Soundcheck E.P". This project was extremely successful on the underground R&B circuit. Since then he has been featured on several singles including "I'm On" with label mate Drew 32. All of his music can be found at http://bsmooth.bandcamp.com or http://quartertoinfinity.com. His single "decisions" is a great mix of old school and new school R&B. Check out B-Smooth's hit now!!!

New Music Releases!!!


Who's ready for another installment of new releases?!! This week we have some very talented ladies and a new up and coming male artist. It has been awhile since we have heard from Marsha a
Ambrosius and Dawn Richard. Elijah Blake is sure to make it big in the coming years. So without further ado I give you this weeks new music releases!!!

Marsha Ambrosius
This English singer-songwriter and former member of the group Floetry, is back at it again. Ambrosius released her first solo album in March of 2011. With hit singles "I hope she cheats on you with a basketball player" and "far away" her album debuted at #1 on US Billboard hot R&B charts. Ever since "Late Nights and Early Mornings" I've been waiting for more music from this wonderful singer. Well the wait is finally over with her new single "Without you". Check it out below:



Dawn Richard
This former member of Danity Kane and Diddy-Dirty Money is back with a new hit. Richard has released two solo EP's, and is currently waiting on her release of her second studio album this month. This is the last installment of The Heart Trilogy. She is currently back in the studio with Danity Kane, who announced their reunion at the 2013 VMA's (Without D. Woods). Not only am I excited about the reunion, I am also excited about her single Valkyrie!! Don't be afraid to check it out below:



Elijah Blake
This 22 year old, up and coming artist is sure be making a hit on the charts very soon. Born in the Dominican Republic, Blake has worked with such artists as Ciara, Kayne West, Kelly Rowland, Keyisha Cole. Along with Usher he co-wrote Usher's hit "Climax". His other songwriting accolades include "Jupiter Love" and "Sex ain't better than love" by Trey Songz. In January of 2012, he started working on his debut album. His new single "X.O.X." is bound to be a hit soon! check it out below:


Tune in next week for another installment of new music...until then keep bumping.

New Music Vidz, Top 5!


This week has been an interesting week for some artist. In fact, they have had some huge buzz from their recent music videos. In this weeks addition of "New Music Vidz" we are bringing you the Top 5 music videos creating a substantial impact on the current music scene.



If you haven't heard about the controversy from Rihanna's new music video for "Pour it Up" then get ready to be pleasantly surprised. The Pop/R&B songstress showcased her bad girl side by basically twerking throughout the entire music video. The video features a barrage of strippers and Rihanna with a blonde wig, pasties, and chains. If you are ready to be shocked, check out her video below. 


Unlike Rihanna, John Legend brings an adult vibe to his new music video. With the compelling message of the song and stunning visuals, John Legend brings an amazing artistic flow to his new music video for "All of Me!"


Ravaughn is a fairly new artist on the scene but her music is beyond amazing. With her beautiful sensual voice, Ravaughn brings her new music video "BestFriend" which is a cute video showcasing a relationship between a friend and potential lover. The video is a cute example of a girl who gets put in the friend zone. It is a pretty unique video and gives audiences the fun side of Ravaughn. 


Keyshia Cole has been missing for a little bit after the release of her new cd, Women to Women. However, her new music video showcases one Keyshia's strongest ballads ever. The vocals on her new song highlights another side of Keyshia's voice that she hasn't showcased in a sing before. The new song, "I Choose You" is a powerful addition to the singer's repertoire of music. 


Miley has definitely been causing a stir in the media recently, but currently is sitting high on the charts right now. Her new image has garnished a whole new fan base and has made the old "Hannah Montana" image a thing of the past. Her new collaboration with MikeWillMadeIt is showcasing Miley MC style. Check out the video below to Miley's collaboration with MikeWillMadeIt in "23".



Tell me what you guys think of this weeks Top 5 new music releases!

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:




New Music Releases!!!


Okay folks, who's ready for some more new music cause I know I am! This week we have songs from a few known artists The Weekend and Miguel and an up and coming artist Sebastian Mikael. All of theses songs are ready to be rocked through your speakers.

The Weekend
This Canadian recording artist and record producer is out doing himself again and again. In 2012 he released a compilation album "Trilogy" made up of remastered versions of songs from his mixtapes along with three new songs. Since then he has released his first official album called "kiss land" (keep an eye open for the album review coming soon). The latest single "live for" featuring drake is amazing. With a slow yet somewhat up-tempo beat with a combination of the Weekend's higher pitched voice and Drake's flow, "live for" is a hit! Check it out below:


Miguel
After his first album "All I want is you" became a sleeper hit that got his name out there. This American recording artist, sing-songwriter and producer is back with vengeance with his 2nd album "Kaleidoscope Dreams". It debuted at #3 on the Billboard 200 list. His new single "How many drinks" is a great new slow jam, and is truly and honest pick up line. The beat just makes you want to get up and dance and then go home with that one. check out this new slow jam below:


Sebastian Mikael
Last but not least is newcomer Sebastian Mikael. This Sweden born, classically trained singer- songwriter is on his way to becoming a superstar. He is very good at meshing the elements of rock, R&B, pop and electronic music into one project. His single "last night" is bound to be a hit. He has a very smooth voice that kind of reminds me of Chris Brown. This single features rap sensation Wale. This collaboration must happen again if you ask me. Be sure to check out this up and coming stars single below:


Keep rocking out to these jams until next week's new releases!!!

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.


New Music Release!!!


Who's ready for some new tracks to bump in their car this week? We got new songs from up and coming artists Trevor Jackson and Sevyn Streeter. A new hit from two artists making a comeback with a phenomenal duet, Toni Braxton and Babyface. Let's start off with some fresh faces coming on to the music scene.

Trevor Jackson 
This Indianapolis native is an up and coming actor, singer, writer and dancer. He was one of the lead roles in the Disney Channel movie "Let it Shine". His latest single "Drop It" is definitely a song that will be bumping through your speakers. It reminds me of a newer version of Chris Brown's "Run it". Check out the latest from Trevor below:


Sevyn Streeter
Formally known as Se7en, Sevyn Streeter is starting to make a name for herself in this business. Starting out as a member of TG4 (Tom Girls 4ever) and girl group RichGirl. Since her days in the those girl groups she has been busy writing songs for other artists such as Chris Brown, Brandy, Alicia Keys and Kelly Rowland. With her 2nd single Sevyn hits all cylinders with this smooth sexy song. Check out Sevyn's "It won't stop" ft. Chris Brown:


Toni Braxton and Babyface:
The last new single of the week is "Hurt you" by Toni Braxton and Babyface. Trust me, this is one you don't want to miss. Braxon announced in February 2013 that she was retiring from the music game. However in June she announced that she was coming out of retirement and working on her 8th studio album. It is going to be a collaboration album with Babyface. The album is set to release December 3rd, 2013. Braxton and Babyface have been long time collaborators and I'm so excited for their album, but until then their new single is the only thing that's going to hold me over. If you know what's good for you check out their AMAZING new single:

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."



Artist Spotlight, Emmanuel Jal



Artist spotlight for the month of August goes to the impeccable Emmanuel Jal. 

Recently, I had the opportunity to hear a speech by Jal, a man who grew up as a child soldier in Sudan. The story of his triumphs over extreme adversity is best described as courageous, powerful, and insightful.

New Music Releases!


We have "New Music" busting on the scene this week. If you are a R&B fan , then you will be pleasantly surprised with some familiar artist making a comeback with their new music. In fact, these artist are sure to create some buzz with their new songs.

Lets first start with Lyfe Jennings. The gifted soul singer is finally back on the scene. After a dispute with his ex- girlfriend which resulted in his incarceration, the singer can now put the pain and legal issues behind him. After time served, the singer is back on track and is ready to bring substance back to the RnB music industry.

The raspy singer spoke with BET recently and talked about his new single "Boomerang" and upcoming tour. His new video for his single was released this week and already has become a major anthem in the RnB realm. Check out the song and video below...



Next, we have some new music from the legendary R Kelly. The singer, producer, and songwriter has been missing from the spotlight and finally is bringing fans what they need. The new single "My Story" has already been released for purchase on iTunes and is sure to get you dancing with it's heavily bass driven beat. The new single features 2 Chainz who brings a nice mix to the song. Check out R'Kelly's new joint below...


Additionally, this next artist has had an amazing year already. Justin Timberlake has been dominating in the entertainment industry and is not backing down anytime soon. The former N'Sync singer, has brought the fire with his new single and video "Take Back The Night." The new song is the leading single for his second part of his 20/20 Experience album part 2 which will be released September 30th. JT is definitely on the right track with this new song. Check out the video below and fall in love with the Michael Jacksonesque sound of Justin Timberlake's new song "Take Back The Night!"


Last but not least, we have Big Sean. Although the Detroit Native isn't a R&B singer, I think his new track will be creating waves real soon. The G.O.O.D. music artist, is on to something with his new single "Fire!" The song is sure to bring a smile to your face and have your head bouncing to the beat. The new song brings a uplifting message and highlights the positive aspects surrounding Big Sean's achievements and career. The song is dynamic and gives fans a different perspective on Big Sean's music. Check out "Fire" below...


RoomieLoverFriends Web Series


"RoomieLoverFriends" is the best thing since sliced bread. If you have not seen the web series then you are in for a treat.

The web phenomenon is an award winning web series created by Dennis Dortch and Numa Perrier. The show was produced by Issa Rae and Black&SexyTV Productions.

Wild N' Out Season 5 Premiere


Nick Cannon has done it again! The actor, mogul, television host, rapper, and comedian has brought his successful comedy show back to MTV 2. Wild N' Out premiered last night and fans where ecstatic about the big twist to the show.

For the first time ever, comedians from YouTube were invited to participate in the star studded comedy event. Youtube sensations Timothy DelaGhetto and Emmanual Hudson, grace the stage to do their comedy on a bigger stage. Pictured below is Kevin Hart and YouTube phenomenon Timothy DelaGhetto.


If your not familiar with the show, Wild N' Out is a comedy skit program that puts comedians head to head against one another. The show is very creative and allows the comedians to play roles, do stand up, or freestyle unique comedic raps. The show first debuted in July 2005. Since it's debut it has became an awesome landmark for new comedic talent.


Furthermore, entertainment heavyweights in the comedy industry such as Kevin Hart, DeRay Davis, Carlos Hayes, and Mikey Day appear on the show and brought the laughter. The first episode was full of laughs and crazy skits. Even more exciting, special musical guest appeared such as DJ Khaled who hyped up the stage with his performance.



To keep up with the show and its comedic genius, make sure to tune in every Tuesday. To check television scheduling for the show, go to MTV2.com. If you have never seen Wild N' Out check out the best moments from season 4 and get a glimpse of the fun Season 5 will bring.


The Queen Latifah Show



Guess what rapper is getting their own Talk Show! The one and only Queen Latifah. The ex rapper, actress, and Cover Girl Model will be hitting your TV screen this Fall.

Talk A Good Game, June 18th


Fan's anticipation on forthcoming album has one Destiny's Child member "talking a good game." Kelly Rowland, former Destiny's Child alum, is ready to release her fourth studio album under the name "Talk a Good Game." Fans are at the edge of their seats waiting to embrace the singer's classic contemporary RnB sound.

Rowland's rise to fame catapulted with the phenomenal female trio, Destiny's Child. After mega hits such as "Same my Name, Survivor, and Bootylicious, fans would never consider a break up of the group. However, in 2002, the trio would respectfully separate to pursue solo careers.

In that same year, Kelly would release her first solo album under the name of "Simply Deep," which allowed fans to see Kelly stand strong as a solo artist.