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!!!!

(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 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

Let’s be honest this trend never really left us, it’s been around for quiet some time and is being worn from  LA to New York. Plaid can be worn as an accessory around the waist, a dress or buttoned to the top. It can be found in a plethora of shades and can be paired with just about anything. To dress up a plaid shirt up try adding gold accessories and a thigh high boot, or try making it more casual with ripped denim or liquid leggings and combat boots.

If your looking to purchase the perfect plaid shirt for this season try American Eagle, Forever21 or H&M all retailing for under $25.

Pictured: La La Anthony (above), Angela and brother Diggy Simmons (below)