 |
Beyonce'
More Bounce For The Ounce
|
|
|
|
|
|
In the spirit of the
Mary J. Blige’s and the Faith Evans’, Beyonce’ is on fire and ready to
blow! It’s looking as if it won’t be a problem at all for B to make the
transition from
Multi-Platinum Destiny’s Child member, to Multi-Multi-Platinum (crazy
Plat.) Solo
Superstar. She is well on her way to superstar success, which includes:
movies, Grammy’s, Oscars, modeling deals and pretty much anything else
that she wishes to pursue. The world is literally Beyonce Knowles’
oyster.
Contrary to popular
belief, it’s not her physical assets that she wants people to take
notice of. That curvelicious figure comes with the package. Beyonce’ is
more concerned with portraying her musical prowess; showing her talent to
the world. “I want them to hear all of the musical influences from
hip-hop to rock to jazz, there’s even a Shuggie Otis sample. I want them
to really hear the talent. I know that folks love me as a pop star.
Now I want them to understand me as an artist.” Yes, everybody knows she
can sing,
but the way she’s pulling it off in solo style is down right gangster!!!
Plain & simply put, the girl is bad…
TLS
••• |
|
Bad Boy's
Da Band
|
|
|
|
|
|
They’re back!
Regardless of what any consistent hater and/or naysayer might think or
say, P. Diddy & Bad Boy are here to stay. Yeah the world has witnessed
the good, the bad and the ugly of Hip-Hop’s own dancing machine. But face
it; Diddy is a mogul in this business. He proved in the early 90’s, that
he can turn any artist into a star. For the last 10 plus years, his worth
has grown to a number that most of us can’t even imagine in our dreams.
Currently; still on the grind in 2003, P. Diddy/Puff Daddy/Puffy
Combs/Sean John (whatever you wanna call him) & Bad Boy introduce to you
(the world): DA BAND.
TLS
••• |
|
Pelle Pelle
Hosts 25th Annual Appreciation
Weekend
September 19-20, 2003 Atlanta, GA - USA
|
|
|
|
|
|
September 19th
and 20th marked Pelle Pelle’s 25th Anniversary
Fashion Show in Atlanta, Georgia. Sponsored by Greenbriar Mall, 97.1 Jamz,
Big Brother/Big Sister and Pelle Pelle, the two day event included: the
Grip the Mic Talent Show on Friday Night. And on Saturday: the Break the
Silence Teen Summit, the Pelle Pelle Fashion Show and plenty hot
performances on the Greenbriar Mall Stage.
Greenbriar lit up on
Saturday as the first group of Artists hit the stage around 1pm. At a
little after 2, the Pelle Pelle models blew up the runway. Marketing
Director, Michael Jenkins and Regional Coordinator, Renee Atkins helped to
unleash some of Marc Buchanan’s phattest Fall Fashions. Pelle Pelle is
now available at Rich’s at Greenbriar Mall, South Dekalb Mall and Stone
Crest Mall in Atlanta, GA.
Also in the Winter
issue: New Motown Artist, Latif. Kelly Rowland, Tyrese, Underground
Railroad, plus more…
TLS
••• |
|
LIL KIM
La Bella Mafia -
Label:
Atlantic
|
|
|
|
|
|
What?!
Likkle Kim is back!!! I know you didn’t think she fell off. On her third
musical installment La Bella Mafia, Queen Bee is possessed. Not only
that, B.I.G is spitting through her. With 16 killer tracks, La Bella
Mafia boasts sex, drugs & Hip-Hop. Lil Kim brought the funk, as well as
an arsenal of heavy collabos: Havoc (Mobb Deep), Swizz Beatz, Mr. Cheeks,
Twista, 50 Cent, Missy and Styles P.
From the jump, Kim begins from the beginning of her career with a sample
of B.I.G. “I took Kim cause she was hungry. She wanted to do her thing;
she writes! She was like, I need to get my joint out.” Damn! After all
these years, she is still hungry!!! It all goes up hill from there. On
Hold It Now f/Havoc of Mobb Deep, Kim let’s you know from the door not to
test her gangster or her high profile style (don’t bite). “I’m feared in
my country like Sadam Hussein.” And just know that she “like to play wit
her ____ when she up in the tub.” The monster beats and stylistic lingo
continues on the lead single, The Jump Off produced by Timbaland.
Featuring Mr. Cheeks and an old Lost Boyz hook, this track is crazy. Kim
boasts, “black barbie; dressed in Bugari. Tryin’ to leave in somebody’s
Ferrari.” The Likkle one also straight flipped R. Kelly’s – This is a
warning. She warns, “someone’s puttin’ tags on yo’ toes (this is a
warning). Someone betta pray for you (this is a warning).” And she’s
singing it too! The highlight of the album (in my opinion) is track #11
f/Twista. Thug Luv is crucial; by far the tightest joint on La Bella.
The self-proclaimed ‘Dutch and Duchess’ of Hip-Hop are natural born
spitters (and definitely in Micki and Mallory mode).
La Bella Mafia re-claims Kim’s spot at the top (as if it went anywhere).
She is definitely the hottest female spitter in the game. And everything
she do, she do it B.I.G!
Bottom Line: Lil’ Kim is madd consistent and crazy thorough. The Queen
Bitch is cold!!! Please Believe It!
TLS
••• |
|
AARIES
Turning Dreams Into Reality
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sisters by Birth; Songbirds by Nature, Ayana & Ayinke are ready to share
their vibes with the world. Former background singers for their brethren
in rhythm Musiq (soulchild), the Aaries machine is well-oiled and will be
sliding into your town so fresh; so clean and oh so smooth… And very
soon!
Hailing from Philadelphia, PA by way of Alexandria, VA, these twin
beauties are more than just a pretty face. They have a talent that stands
on its own two. Their voices are a power that demands both appreciation
and respect.
Thanks to Atlantic Records, Courvoisier and Mama’s Boys Entertainment,
Aaries’ strong vocals tore Atlanta’s Level 3 Stage apart. With only a
45-minute to 1-hour set, Ayana & Ayinke claimed the stage and showed
Atlantians just how they do it! Stepping from the backstage to center
stage was not a thing for these classically trained sisters. Although
being background singers for successful R&B crooner Musiq was a great
experience, they love the fact that Aaries is its own animal. Actually
this is a pretty big step for Ayana & Ayinke, but they are poised and
roaring to go. Aptly titled, Always Remember, their debut will hit stores
sometimes this year. So look out! And… There voices is something that
the world will definitely ‘Always Remember’.
Glamourlife: When are you Birthdays?
Ayana: March 27th (thus the name Aaries).
•••
Glamourlife: When did you realize that singing as a profession is
what you wanted to do?
Ayinke:
My mother and father always had music in the house. My father was a soul
cat, so he played everything from Lionel Richie to the Doobie Bros. My
mom cultivated that by keeping us in chorus and taking lessons. I think
it was around 14 when we went to Apollo that we really realized that we
wanted to do this professionally.
•••
Glamourlife: Who inspires Aaries?
Ayana (Beautiful Flower): Everybody from Minnie (Ripperton) and
Aretha Franklin to the Emotions. My favorite is Ella (Fitzgerald) and
Louie (Armstrong). I just love their duet album.
Ayana/Ayinke: Lauryn Hill, Erykah B., The Roots, Common.
•••
Glamourlife: Your sound is so fresh; so creative. What drives you
to be creative?
Ayinke: Knowing ourselves. I mean you can get lost in this
business, but you gotta be strong and stay yourself. There’s things that
I don’t do, and regardless of what people think I’m gonna stay myself and
stick to it.
Ayana: Everyday we learn more about ourselves. Just knowing
ourselves created this album. So everything we sing about, we truly
believe! This is not something we do just to sell a record. We want to
give off the essence of ourselves: Ayana & Ayinke. Aaries!
•••
Glamourlife: How did you feel having these tremendous voices, but
having to struggle from being background singers?
Ayana: Oh, It wasn’t a struggle at all (laughs). Musiq is our
family, so when we started singing with him it was fun. It was just
natural to go on stage with him and just do what we did in the studio.
And it was a blessing, because it taught us a lot. We are just thankful
that we had this experience as opposed to just going out fresh. I’m just
thankful that God prepared us. It is now our time!
The ladies of
Aaries (Ayana & Ayinke) truly have amazing stage presence. The
Philadelphia based duo not only makes eye contact with the audience; they
sing and smile at one another throughout their show. Which makes for a
very enjoyable performance. What out for the first single and video for
Strangers to Lovers off the album coming to a radio and television in your
homes.
TLS
••• |
|
Ying
Yang
Twins
Signs
With
TVT
Records
Atlanta Hip-Hop Group To|
Release New Album This Summer |
|
|
|
|
|
New York, NY, February
21 Ying Yang Twins, one of the South¹s most prominent party-starting
Hip-Hop groups, and their producer/label head Michael "DJ Smurf" Crooms,
President of Collipark Records, have signed a long-term deal with TVT
Records. The duo, comprised of D-Roc and Kaine, will follow-up last years
400,000 unit seller, Alley: The Return of the Ying Yang Twins, which
featured the truck-rattling hits "Say I Yi YI" and "By Myself" with a
banging new TVT release tentatively titled, Me & My Brother scheduled for
a June release.
"We look at what TVT did with Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz and felt that
coming from Atlanta as well, they knew how to push a hit," said Ying Yang
Twin Kaine. "The pieces fit here at TVT Records. We are proud to be a part
of the family," added Ying Yang Twin D-Roc. "We are looking forward to
releasing our next album and giving our audience more addictive club
anthems."
"Kaine and Doc are great entertainers," remarked TVT Records President,
Steve Gottlieb. "Everyone who sees them is floored. In addition Mike
(Smurf) is a powerhouse producer who we expect big things from. That
paired with the unique wit and humor of Ying Yang is dangerous. Now more
than ever the world needs a group like this to rock the house with upbeat
party anthems."
"The reason [we signed], I felt that TVT understood the music we do," said
Smurf. "The fact they were able to take an act like Lil Jon & The East
Side Boyz and turn them into a major act was what made the deal quite
attractive."
Ying Yang Twins¹ last album, Alley: The Return of the Ying Yang Twins was
released in March 2002, was one of last year¹s biggest-selling independent
albums and is approaching gold certification. Their debut album on
Universal Thug Walkin¹ featured the catchy chorus hit single, "Whistle
While You Twurk" which reached #1 on the Billboard Rap Singles Chart.
Ying Yang Twins is featured on Lil Jon & the East Side Boyz next 12¹¹
promo single, "Get Low". The group will finish recording Me & My Brother
at The Zone Studios in Atlanta.
About TVT Records:
Headquartered in New York City, TVT Records is Billboard and Soundscan¹s
#1 independent record company of 2002 and the #1 independent label for
urban music. The label holds the current #1 independent rap album with
"Kings of Crunk" from Lil¹ Jon & The East Side Boyz which is still in the
Top 5 on Billboard¹s Top Rap Albums chart in its 17th week of release.
TVT¹s other notable urban projects include Snoop Dogg¹s Tha Eastsidaz --
whose two albums have scored gold and platinum certifications, and who
will drop a third TVT disc later this year -- and the reforming of Ja
Rule's original group CMC (Cash Murda Click) whose new album "Est. Since
OE93" will also hit in 2003.
Upcoming urban releases for 2003 include dynamic hip-hop/soul songstress
Teedra Moses, Memphis¹s most renowned emcee Yo Gotti, honey-dipped street
soul vocalist Oobie and Lil¹ Jon-protégé Chyna Whyte, a female rap slayer
with vicious rhymes and incredible lyrical dexterity.
TLS
••• |
|
NEWS |
|
|
|
|
|
Ex-Cash Money Millionaire, Juvenile pleaded guilty to busin’ a man in the
head “wit a bottle of bub”. Juve got probation and had to donate an
undisclosed amount of money to a local children’s charity (a mere slap on
the wrist).
Is 50 banging or what?! 50’s debut, Get Rich or Die Tryin’ under the
Shady/Aftermath imprint, sold close to 900,000 units in its first week.
Mobb Deep inks a 50/50 deal with Jive Records plus $10 Million to sign
their name on the dotted line. Now dat’s a businessman…
Mega movie star, Morgan Freeman has been cast to play Nelson Mandela in a
new biography on Mandela’s life.
Notice… Notice… Notice… Russell
Simmons has called off the Pepsi boycott. Luda was recently pulled from
an ad (said to be a bad influence on its viewers), but was replaced by the
vulgar Osbournes. Come on! Get Real! The agreement reached between pepsi
and Luda’s people is still being negotiated.
Rapper Busta Rhymes Suburban was literally filled with holes after a
drive-by shooting at Violator headquarters in New York.
Daytime Talkshow Queen Oprah is the first African-American Woman to make
Forbes’ annual Billionaires list for 2003. Yes, Oprah is worth a
billion!
Newcomer, Nora Jones’ album snatched up 8 Grammy’s at the 45th annual
awards ceremony last month. Amazing,! Taking that only a year ago, she
played open mics to get her name out… Handle that biz Nora!
Other Grammy Winners…
Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group
Outkast f/Killer Mike -
“The Whole World”
Best Female R&B
Vocal Performance
Mary J.
Blige -
"He
Think I Don’t Know”
Best Male R&B Vocal Performance
Usher -
“U Don’t Have To Call”
Best Male Pop Vocal Performance
John Mayer -
“Your Body Is A Wonderland”
Best R&B Album
India.Arie - “Voyage To India”
Best R&B Song
Erykah Badu f/Common -
“Love Of My Life (An
Ode to Hip-Hop)
TLS
••• |
|
|
News You Can
Use...
February 03' |
|
|
By T.L. Sanders |
|
|
Teddy Bishop’s Miss You (Aaliyah)
soars to #1 on the billboard R&B/Hip-Hop charts.
Super Producer Jermaine Dupri has
inked an exclusive contract with Arista. He will continue as SoSo Def
CEO. He will also take over as Senior V.P. of Arista. Bow Wow, Brat and
Jagged Edge will remain on Columbia.
Rapstress Eve has secured a
development deal for a new sitcom to air on UPN. The show will focus on
the NY Fashion scene. In addition to starring as a Fashion Designer, Eve
will serve as Producer of the show.
Lil Mo’ will be dropping her new
album, The Girl Next Door in April of this year. She also hosts a radio
show in Baltimore “The Lil Mo’ Show” and is also a new mommy.
Did you hear? At a recent benefit
concert Missy had to apologize to the crowd for forgetting the words to
several of her own songs (including her smash hit ‘work it’).
Jody Watley is back! She has a
new album, Midnight Lounge dropping March 2003.
Isn’t it funny how Joe Millionaire
has those women making a fool of themselves, and he ain’t even Joe
Thousanaire?
New York Radio Personality Angie
Martinez and Dru Hill’s Nokio are expecting a child together this June.
After the American Music Awards,
Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears were spotted at an after party
holding hands & kissing. Mind you, it was said to be right after Britney
was heard in the women’s room Earling.
I’m sure I’ll have more to tell
you after da Big All Star Shitz…. Holla!!!
TLS
••• |
|
|
Something’s Going
On with The Poww Bros.
UNV |
|
|
By T.L. Sanders |
|
|
The word power is
synonymous with clout, strength & supremacy. Powwer Moves Records
survives on dedication, strength & pure talent. Distributed by
Orpheus/EMI Music, J. Poww and Shawn Poww are making some serious powwer
moves in the music industry – Again! Bottom line: UNV is back! “UNV is
back strong and we hope to have a major impact with this record,”
according to J. Poww.
UNV is made up of
brothers, J. Poww and Shawn Poww. You probably remember these siblings
from their platinum selling single, Something’s Goin’ On. For
those of you asking, Who? The Poww Brothers/UNV’s fruitful career spans
back to over a decade ago. Their musical reign started in 92’-93’, when
they became the first R&B act signed to Madonna’s Maverick Records. With
the success of Something’s Goin’ On (written by J. Poww), UNV
instantly became the sons of seduction and the Kings of the Quiet Storm.
“We do have a certain sound. We stay true to ballads and rich; soulful
Gospel harmony. Of course we got bangers and remixes, but we stay true to
our roots”, offers J. Poww.
After a 6 year
hiatus, UNV/the Poww Brothers have a new record company; Powwer Moves
Records, a new album; Faithful (January 28) and a new attitude.
Best believe that they are making things happen (and it’s purely by
coincidence that their last name is Poww, and their record company is
Powwer Moves Records). “Since leaving Maverick in 97’ (with no hard
feelings), we’ve been getting a full grasp on the business and
understanding how independent labels work in today’s market. UNV has been
working on their album for about a year now. We decided to link back up
when I got a distribution deal through EMI”, J. cites. Man, these boys
ain’t playing. And on the album; not only are you getting that classic
UNV ballad, but they are giving you a Hip-Hop feel also with the thumpin’
beats and J putting it down the flow.
Serving as
Artist/Songwriter & CEO of Powwer Moves Records, J. Poww is ready to get
down with the get down! Him and his brother, Shawn has been working on
finishing up the album for a short while. It’s like a new beginning; UNV
is reintroducing themselves to the world. “We believe that we still have
our old fans, but we’re trying to make new ones also. UNV is taking it to
a whole nother’ level!
Their new joint,
Faithful hits stores in late January 2003. It includes every element
of music: from Hip-Hop to Pop to Soulful R&B. “We are trying to bring
back good R&B music. These days record labels aren’t focusing on having
good; seasoned artists/groups. That’s where you get the trendy music. We
want to build music that stays around.” I hear that; longevity is the
name of the game. Some of J. and Shawn’s favorite artists are: The
Commission, Fred Hammond, Joe, Ruff Endz, Teddy P. (as in Pendergrass),
Donny Hathaway and Musiq.
Yo, I urge you to
pick up that album (Faithful), in stores everywhere! Also, the
Poww Brothers/UNV will be coming to your town soon with they gear up for
their Promotional Tour. Keep your eyes open and heart open for J. & Shawn
Poww. UNV is back!!!
TLS
••• |
|
|
Madonna Tassi
'Destined for Greatness' |
|
|
By T.L. Sanders |
|
|
To simply say that
Madonna Tassi of Destiny Music, Inc. has a good singing voice would be the
highest form of disrespect. Her vocal ability is truly unexplainable, and
her hunger to succeed is untamable. "I've known for 20 years that God had
this (singing) planned for me", states Madonna. So with that said, it's
time for the world to witness greatness in the making.
Have you ever gotten
chills from hearing a person sing? Well, I advise you to get your Eskimo
coats ready; Madonna's tremendous voice will make you feel the blistering
winds of the coldest Chicago winter. The youngest of 15(yes, 15!), she
has been singing since the tender age of 6. No stranger to struggling to
strive and striving for success, Madonna indeed realizes that God has
already paved her road in the music industry. "It's definitely been hard
times because you have certain expectations for yourself and of course you
want them all right away, but that's not how God wants it. God sometimes
wants you to go through the struggle to enlighten you more; to make you
stronger. I think that's definitely what is happening to me."
In a business
such as this where the industry door slams so easy and opens so hard, a
person must have a grasp on themselves. You have to be an expert at
dealing with rejection; you have to be very comfortable in the skin that
you're in. It's detrimental to your success. And if not in the right
place, it can lead to your ultimate failure. "You have to have a really
strong philosophy in this business to get through, because there are so
many pitfalls. So when doors do close on you, inevitably you almost
always end up somewhere that is probably better for you. That's my
philosophy; that's what has kept me going."
Madonna has also
had a tight grasp on something that her mother told her many years ago:
every kick is a boost. These few words has motivated her; kept the fire
under her for an extremely long time.
On Faith and Hard Work
__________________________________________
"Another thing
that has kept me going is my sense of faith. Cause I know that God gave
me this voice for a reason. He gave me this voice to be heard, so I know
that there will be something down the road. And every time there is! So
it has worked out really well for me." And she ain't never lied, Madonna
is currently taking Tennessee by storm with her current project,
"Tennessee Rocks" from the Red, White, Blue & Orange CD. With major radio
airplay and distribution of the thousands of CD's to Afghanistan to show
support to the U.S. Troops, the only thing that's changed for Madonna is
her hectic schedule. And believe you/me, it's no problem for her at all.
"I love the hustle. The setting up of interviews, the public appearances
- I love that! I love it because I love people. I love meeting people!"
And there will definitely be millions (of people). Madonna Tassi is also
set to release an Oldies CD. The excitement mounts for Madonna as she
prepares to unleash her voice on the world. And since we all know that
there is no reward without hard work, Ms. Tassi is well prepared to tear
down any and all obstacles set in front of her. "You wouldn't want the
reward without the hard work, because then your sense of character would
be such that you would expect it; that it's owed to you. Or... That it
came so easy, and I don't know if that's necessarily a good thing." Hey,
it's a good thing that we still have people in our music industry with
undying work ethic and the drive to make it happen. And that VOICE -
WOW!!!
Madonna Tassi on singing... _______________________________________
"I get a lot of
satisfaction out of singing. You feel that you have to sing, because you
open your mouth and this sound comes out. It's not that you're on an ego
trip or anything, it's just that you know it's a gift from God. It
probably feels the same to a great Painter, a Dancer, a Writer or Poet.
We're driven by the same thing; they know they have to do it!"
"When I hear
myself sing and I hit the notes and I'm driven by the perfectionism in my
voice, I want it to be the best. I just know on a certain level that it
brings tremendous joy to someone, so I'm driven to keep doing it."
Destiny Music,
Inc. came into being over 2 decades ago. Creator, Antonio Pulsone has
been in love with music since a young child and always knew that music
would be a huge part of his life. Tony is the exclusive Arranger and
Producer for Madonna Tassi. He is an "award-winning classical soloist,
music director, manager and performer. He has opened shows and produced
musical arrangements for many international performers, including Don
Rickles, Tom Jones, Englebert Humperdinck, Prince Charles, Phyllis Diller
and Martin Short." To put it short, this man is lethal... Please believe
it!!! Also, don't forget to log on to www.MadonnaTassi.com.
What a team!!!
TLS
•••
|
|
|
Benzino
All Business… |
|
|
By T.L. Sanders |
|
|
As we already know,
there is no reward without hard work. At the same time, there is no hard
work that goes unheralded. Knowing this, is the key to survival in the
Entertainment Industry. Also, it takes a true Musician to understand that
he/she is only as good as his/her dedication & love for their craft.
From the Almighty
RSO to Made Men to the “solo artist”, Ray “Benzino” has been in the game
for well over a decade. Handling his business as usual, Benz has
maintained both his hunger and his love for the Art of Hip-Hop. “I just
don’t take anything for granted. I took the time to learn the business
inside out; I really don’t know what it’s like to be a celebrity. I just
love music.” Ray Benzino may not be familiar with his celebrity status,
but one thing’s for certain: he certainly knows about struggle. Raised in
one of the toughest project homes in Boston, Mass, Benzino had to learn at
an early age how to survive the mean streets.
In our ever growing;
highly publicized industry, there is no such word as ‘personal’. As an
artist, executive, producer, etc., your business is the world’s business.
However, it is my firm belief that every person should have a part of
themselves to remain sacred. Take Artist/Producer/Businessman Benzino for
instance, from a publicized beef with a certain white rapper to stabbings
to the Source shenanigans, the name Ray Benzino has been stuck on the lips
of industry insiders and the world for some time now. Heads feel that he
is only a thug with minimal rap skills. But after talking to the real
Benz, I see an intelligent thug with his eyes on the prize (with enough
rap skills, especially since he’s mainly a producer). Growing up in the
Roxbury, Dorchester section of Boston; like most of us, Benzino was a
product of the ghetto. The youngest of three, the only male and a Pops
serving fed time, young Benz had to take control to sustain his household
in order for his family to eat. Although having to make a choice between
hustling on the streets and the Hip-Hop hustle was a hard one, we see
which hustle prevailed. “We love this Hip-Hop game. We’re not trouble
making thugs, we’re basic products of the hood. And being a part of the
hood you get involved in certain situations. You look back and have some
regrets, but everything happens for a reason. And I can definitely say
that its made me stronger.”
One-Third of the
Production team Hangmen 3 (Jeff Two Times & Johnny B), Benzino has been in
the game for a nice chunk of time. Benz was hit with a serious case of
the music bug way back in the day when he went out and got his first
909-drum machine. It was then that he began DJing and making beats in the
park. “Producing is my love! I love the aspect of creativity in that.”
By 1988, Benz with his group the Almighty RSO began doing local parties
and shows to put their names in the atmosphere. It must’ve been worked,
because four years later (1992), they signed their first deal with Tommy
Boy Records. With their new found fame in the music industry, Benz and
the crew were now Made Men (due to a name change and also in the music
industry). To date, Hangmen 3 has produced tracks for: Mobb Deep, Nas,
Raekwon & Wyclef. Just to name a few.
Now; in 2003,
Benzino has set the pace for his solo career. With a hit single tearing
up the billboard charts (Rock the Party), its all business as usual. This
is Hip-Hop – it ain’t no joke bwa!!! “Hip-Hop means everything to me:
Life – Culture. Hip-Hop is our culture!” Benzino has a lot going on
these days and in our current stage of Hip-Hop, we are in desperate need
for heads that’s feeling the conscious struggle of the music industry.
However, sometimes if we speak our minds we get judged and ridiculed. So
our job is to just do our thing and to do the music that is in our
hearts. “Hip-Hop is now mainstream, I think we’ve lost our
consciousness. Hip-Hop is about consciousness. Partying and Flossing is
good, but it’s some good things to learn from the consciousness of
Hip-Hop.” Ray did mention to me that on this album, he put his all into
it. “On this sophomore album, I’ve stepped it up both creatively and
lyrically.”
Don’t think that
rapping is his only, or should I say his ‘main’ hustle. Benzino often
gives his energy back to the hood. He has the Unsigned Hype Tour coming
to a town near you, he’s working on the Source Awards and the Source All
Access show. Busy busy man. And why is that? “I’m focusing more on the
culture, instead of worrying about how many records I sell.”
TLS
•••
|
|
Album release party hits
Cascade Family Skating Rink Hard!!!
"With no immediate plans of turning back" |
|
|
By T.L. Sanders |
|
|
First there were Patti & the Labelles, then
came En Vogue; after that, there was Destiny's Child. Now for the new
millennium and beyond we have the young ladies of NIA. You have been
hearing their voices as well as their lead single, I'm Not The One taking
over the airwaves for months; you have been starving for another taste of
NIA since then. Now the wait is over! On September 20, 2002 NIA released
their highly anticipated debut album, entitled I'm Not The One.
Co-Produced by Chicago's very own Dave Hollister (formerly of Blackstreet),
this album is a must-have.
Signed to Atlanta-based independent record label
Koya Records, NIA (meaning 'PURPOSE') is set to take over the world with
their hot vocals. The ladies that make up NIA are: Aisha 17, Dara 15,
Tuere 17 and Rashida 17. Yo, don't let the young ages fool you, these teen
stars have unbelievable vocal abilities and they know how to handle
themselves on stage, amidst fans and they also give media outlets the
right vibe needed to produce stories showing their true to life
personalities. Holla if you hear me!!!
Cascade Family Skating Rink in Atlanta, Georgia came
alive on Saturday, September 21, 2002 with NIA's Album release joint. As
children of all ages skated and adults congregated, the young women of NIA
made their way around the packed rink to meet and greet fans. "For a new
group, they seem well prepared", a random adult whispered to her friend.
Everything was calm, chill and serene. That is... Until NIA hit the stage.
With fans forming a complete circle around them, the ladies showed
on-lookers exactly why they are here and gave all of us a glimpse of where
they are going: NOWHERE!!! NIA is definitely here to stay...
Out of the 4 songs sang (including the title track,
I'm Not The One), all four had the crowd bouncin' and participating in
NIA's groove. With hard hitting dance moves and undeniable vocal control,
NIA kept the males wanting for more and showed the females exactly how it
should be done. I can literally picture the performance as I write. We
call that a 'Journalistic Dream' (helps with the flow of the story). With
that said, Aisha, Dara, Tuere and Rashida (NIA) should chalk this one up
as a victory - you came wit' it!!! Congratulations!!!
It is also necessary for everybody working behind
the scenes with NIA (Akina, Rhonda & their Parents) to give yourselves a
pat on the back. Believe me when I say - NIA is here to stay!!!
What's really good?!!!
TLS
••• |
|
"Spiritual People"
Speech: A Man About His Spirit... |
|
|
By T.L. Sanders |
|
|
With
a decade of music industry experience under his belt and approximately 15
years of music making to back him up, Speech is long overdue supreme
recognition. Although it is realized by Speech that most of the world is
and has been taking his abilities for granted; for a while, everybody
wants to be received for who they are, the talents that they possess and
the road that they have paved. With a budding solo career and a new album
on tap (Spiritual People - September 10), the Speechster is set to take
charge. I urge you to pick up the album as soon as it drops. This
brother has his head on tight. How tight? So tight that he has both Asia
and Japan on lock. Can we; here in the United States, give a brother from
way back some love?
!
It all started years before the days of "Tennessee" and "People Everyday".
The magic for Speech began in his hometown of Milwaukee, Wisconsin where
he used his expertise, accompanied by his hunger for music to Deejay at
local nightclubs and to throw basement parties that definitely rocked. "I
don't do it anymore, but I definitely have that jones to just go back and
do a good ole basement party." So not only has Speech mastered the
artistry of vocals (rapping & singing), he is also a promoter and can work
the turntables too. This intelligent brother is truly a man who knows
himself; one after his own soul. Which all equals up to a
Godly-multifaceted individual (a plan that our father has mapped out for
all of us).
By
1991, Arrested Development was formed and Speech along with his
counterparts were prepared to kick down doors with their creative
steel-toed boots. And that is exactly what they did: set the pace and the
standard for many artists seen in today's Entertainment Industry. Hailed
as one of Hip-Hop's most influential groups, Arrested Development tackled
social, spiritual and political issues with their critically acclaimed;
Grammy Award Winning debut, 3 Years 5 Months and 2 Days in The Life Of...
"We were just doing what we do in Arrested Development. We did want to be
the first to do certain things. We wanted to be the first to have men and
women in the same group. We did want to bring 'rural country' to
Hip-Hop. I'm glad we had a hand in that." In all actuality, Speech and
Arrested Development had a hand, an arm and a brain in the very beginnings
of this conscious rap/neo-soul movement that our music industry thrives on
so heavily these days. After a 4-year reign, the six members of Arrested
Development all went their separate ways. Thus, bringing rise to such
great entertainers as: the Roots, Jill Scott, Musiq, Glenn Lewis and Nappy
Roots; to name a few. In more ways than one, Arrested Development helped
to plant the seeds that is now labeled the "Neo-Soul Era".
"I
remember a day when I couldn't afford on apartment and had to work at a
Mobile Car Wash all day. I haven't had to go back to that. Now, I can do
music and what's truly something that I love to do."
No
stranger to being creatively free, Speech has been building his solo
career since 1996. Block by block; Brick by brick he has been climbing,
grinding all over the world. The secret to his success: being himself,
and staying fresh & original. "I produced Arrested Development and wrote
most of the stuff on the albums. I'm gonna keep doing the music that
comes from my heart, from my experiences." Speech isn't a one-track
artist, the brother is bad: he performs Folk, Jazz and Hip-Hip. Just to
name some of many styles, many styles. He performs for all people: Black
or White. Creativity bares no judgments. "That's one of the things that I
try to do with my music, expand black peoples and anybody's mind. I take
my music to different places - Jazz, Folk, Hip-Hop, etc. And it works
when you go at it with a good heart", says Speech.
"Don't underestimate what their minds can conceive. People's minds are a
lot thicker than what people think they are. We keep feeding them the
same stuff, but the truth is that they can handle stuff that's deeper - if
they're fed that."
Speech on 'cats in the street'
Present day Speech has weathered the unfriendly storm of being in a
group, and being a solo artist. Although completely accidental, Speech's
solo career has taken him to new heights. "My solo career has been a very
humbling experience in my life. And... I have learned a lot about life;
who I am and what I'm made of. It was hard, but it was good because I
learned by it," explained Speech. Quite frankly, it has been a hard knock
life for Speech's solo career. From great success to moderate
disappointment, Speech has kept his head up and his eyes on the prize. In
this game, patience isdefinitely power. You never know when it's the real
thing. Because theworld is an extremely fickle place, we have to get to
know ourselves, as well as our talents. Confidence is your most
faithful comrade. Whether it be an audience of 30,000 or a small crowd of
5, you have to rock your shit like there's no tomorrow. Something that
Speech knows all about. Instead of throwing in the towel, he sat his
pride aside and attacked the stage until the job was complete! But what
does that gain you?! "What I've learned from my experiences is that
I have to have character. I gotta be a man and do my thing regardless of
what people are feeling. I gotta make sure that I try to be excellent at
whatever it is that I do." Now, that's gangster!!!
"If
this record blows up here in the States, it's just because I stayed true
to myself and I didn't compromise my integrity."
The date to
watch on the calendar was September 10, 2002. And so you ask, "what
for?!" On this day in history Spiritual People dropped in the United
States. Already Certified Gold in Asia, Speech's new joint is about to
set fire to the nation. With a fully equipped 10-Piece Band in tow,
Speech is blazing cities everywhere with his soulful, spiritual,
entertaining; yet self-educational music. He says that his music is "for
people who want to transform a bit in their lives." He labels his
creations 'transformation music'; music from the heart. So let your heart
be your guide and go cop some real sauce.
Also, log on to www.speechmusic.com to
get the latest in Speech news and anything you need and want to know about
the man behind the music. It will be well worth the travel...
TLS
•••
|
|
B STREET LIVE: Taped
Live in Atlanta, U.S.A.
"Bryant Reid¹s brainchild to be televised nationally on Turner South
Network" |
|
|
By T.L. Sanders |
|
|
Straight from the Boardroom to the Stage. The world better
get equipped, because there is a hot new on tap for the fall season on
Turner South. Scheduled
to begin airing this October, B Street Live brings artistry to the light
and gives opportunities to
hungry unsigned artists.
Created by former V.P. of LaFace
Records & V.P. of A&R for Atlantic Records Bryant Reid, B Street Live is a
half hour musical experience that brings some of the hottest and talented
acts to the stage to showcase their offerings to our world of
Entertainment. The show is shot live at the Celebrity Rock Cafe¹ in
Atlanta, GA. ³Each episode of B Street Live will feature six acts,
performing two songs each.² Not only does the world get to experience
Atlanta¹s wrath, we also get to see a pioneer at work: B Street Live is
the first African-American show to air on Turner Broadcasting Network. So
we know that we are obligated to support. Without a doubt!
It all went down on July 31, 2002 at
the Celebrity Rock Cafe¹ in Atlanta, Georgia. Hosted by rap specialist
Rasheeda, the stage was on fire. Amongst the notables that took the stage
hostage were Nicci Gilbert (former lead singer of Brownstone), Corey
(Motown) and Speech (former front man of conscious rap pioneers Arrested
Development). Oh yeah it was definitely hot up in there (as Nelly would
put it). And it got even hotter! As we all know, hunger makes one a fire-spitter
- unsigned female rapper Sarai blew the stage up.... Also manhandling the
stage was R&B crooner Amanda and R&B male duo Raw Soul.
Ok, ok, ok, let¹s talk SUPPORT!!!
Atlanta¹s Industry Elite is known to support a fellow brethren - in the
house chillin¹ were: Angie Stone, the Calhouns, Lil G (Silk), Griff
(Comedian), Emmanuel Lewis (Actor) and producers Bryan Michael Cox,
Anthony Dent and Gene Griffin.
I¹m telling you, B Street Live is the
place to be. But if you can¹t be there, in front of your television;
October is where you should be. And just in case you didn¹t know, Bryant
Reid is responsible for such talent as: Toni Braxton, JD, Donnell Jones
and Usher. And that¹s most of the Industry¹s hard hitters. What does that
say about Mr. Reid? Feel him!!!
TLS
••• |
|
2ND ANNUAL JASON TERRY/UNCF
HOOPS SHOWDOWN
"Jason Terry raises
money to help young African-Americans attend college" |
|
|
By T.L. Sanders |
|
|
More than just a major sports
personality, Atlanta Hawks star Jason Terry definitely gives back to his
community (and beyond). From July 26-28, 2002 in Atlanta, Georgia, Jason
Terry held his 2nd Annual UNCF/Jason Terry All-Star Hoops Showdown. This
annual event is a fundraiser to benefit Atlanta University Center Schools.
Only in its 2nd year, Terry¹s annual
UNCF event not only helps young people get a college education, it also
brings some of the biggest basketball stars and celebrity entertainers to
Atlanta. Amongst the celebrities this year were: Shareef Abdur-Rahim
(Hawks), Cedric Ceballos (retired), Baron Davis (Hornets), Jumaine Jones
(Cavaliers), Charles Oakley (Bulls), Gary Payton (Sonics), Eric Snow
(76ers) and Robert ³Tractor² Traylor (Hornets) just to name a few.
On this weekend, Atlanta played host
to many fans. Also scheduled: mini concerts, autograph signings, youth
events, hot parties and the all-famous finale - Celebrity Basketball game
featuring many of your favorite pro athletes. There was even a
mini-concert after the game featuring Ms. Nicci Gilbert formerly of the
famed group Brownstone. And you know she handled her business!!!
The game itself; held on July 28, 2002
at Phillips Arena (home of the Hawks), brought a crowd of over 20,000
screaming fans to witness all the fancy lay-ups and circus dunks that only
an All-Star game can bring. Although Jason Terry¹s team fell short of the
victory by over 10 points (139-122), his generous spirit raised a large
sum for Atlanta¹s 5 UNCF sponsored institutions. The parents, students and
our entire community thank you Jason.
That¹s what you call
tireless giving...
Also, that¹s flaunting your wealth for a tremendous cause...
TLS
••• |
|
"BRONNER BROTHERS HAIR
SHOW MAKES ITS MARK
ON ATLANTA, GEORGIA" |
|
|
By T.L. Sanders |
|
|
Hair... Hair... Hair...
If there was any one person or any
group of people that either resides in or visited Atlanta on the weekend
of August 3-5, 2002, he/she or they were aware of the Infamous Bronner
Brothers Hair Show that takes place every year. The place to be was the
Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, GA. Whether you were a stylist,
client or just curious about the happenings of the weekend - this is
where: vendors got their sell on! Stylist got their style on! And, clients
got their do¹s done up!
Vendors, Stylists, Clients &
Spectators alike traveled to Atlanta by the busloads to witness firsthand,
the best in Hair & Entertainment. Hey, different styles call for different
measures. This weekend, the World Congress Center ingested many
hairstyles: real hair, weaved hair, braided hair, big hair, natural hair,
blue hair, red hair, white hair.
Hair... Hair... Hair...
With stages set up fashion show style
and a similar styled audience, stylists from all walks of life were able
to showcase their abilities. Beauty professionals from Atlanta, Chicago,
Dallas, Detroit and even Gary, Indiana made their presence and their
hairstyles felt at the official Hair Battle Royale 2002. This is where men
& women sharpened their shears, heated their curling irons and got down to
the hair of the matter. And oh boy, it was on!!! The Bronner Brothers
stage was a grand spectacle: all white; embossed in black & gold.
Although the major function of the
weekend was the hair show, Bronner Brothers also allowed non-hair
professionals to get their groove on. The weekend of August 3-5, 2002 also
boasted a Comedy Show featuring BET Comics: Steve Brown, Don ³DC² Curry
and Gary Owens, after parties all weekend, a Gospel stage play (Good God
A' Mighty), and a live concert with Kelly Price. And with all that plus
instructional classes, there is no way that Atlanta could have went wrong
this weekend.
Until next year...
TLS
••• |
|
DANA GLOVER -
UNCUT
"A Star is Born" |
|
|
By T.L. Sanders |
|
|
Wow... What a voice! On July
24th in front of a room filled with Record Label Executives, Radio Program
Directors, Media and other major players in our music industry, Dana
Glover left the Ritz Carlton - Buckhead crowd speechless. A Pianist,
Songwriter and Artist; Dana held her composure, the crowd and plenty high
notes while wooing the upscale industry big wigs.
After performing only four songs from
her 11-track debut, Dana showed everyone present that she is prepared for
superstardom. She also showed that her star is extremely luminous. Backed
by DreamWorks Records and managed by Alan Mintz, Ms. Glover proved that
she has what it takes to bring a million-dollar audience to its feet.
From July 17, 2002 to July 25, 2002,
Dana Glover swept through Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles and New York. I¹m
quite sure that by the time that you have read this, her name will already
be flying off the lips of anybody who¹s anybody in the music industry.
Slated for an October 15th release, Dana¹s debut ³Testimony² is sure to
turn heads and climb charts. To put it bluntly: The album is the bomb.
*Congratulations and Thank you to Dana
Glover for following your dream and unleashing your talents to the world.
Also, for showing that dreams can be achieved and are worth reaching for.
Atlanta, the world and of course, North Carolina loves you!
**Special Thanks to Alan Mintz, Robbie
Robertson and Johnny Barbis for backing such a beautiful talent.
***Extra Special Thanks to Amy Welch
and Bryn Bridenthal for keeping the industry informed.
Thank you DreamWorks
Records
TLS
••• |
|
WORD ON THE STREET
May 2002 |
|
By T.L. Sanders |
|
• Matthew Knowles,
the manager of multiplatinum group Destiny's Child (and father of Beyonce')
is now the impresario of Nas' career. Let the Platinum plaques fall where
they shall!!!
• Hit maker, Mary J.
Blige is engaged to be married.
• Ali star, Will
Smith is being sued for about $4 million by a man claiming to have had a
hand in writing with Will on "Parents Just Don't Understand". Clarence
'Ready Rock C' Holmes is suing for back royalties.
• Blond bombshell
(or is it Philly Red?!) Eve is set to begin her acting career with a
bang. The baddest Pit bull in a skirt will appear in 3 upcoming
releases. Handle dat biz E!!!
• Back in news, Bow
Wow (who recently dropped the "Lil" from his name) has a starring role in
the movie "Like Mike". Of course the name says it all...
• Alicia Keys has
recently finished her new video for the Prince remake, "How Come You Don't
Call Me". The video was directed by Little X (Jay-Z fame), it was filmed
in LA and this will be the first time we see the Five time Grammy winner
with her hair down.
• For all of you
Usher fans, his tour kicks off on May 8th. He will be taking Faith, Mr.
Cheeks and Nas out to rock crowds with him. Notable dates: May 23
(Minneapolis), May 24 (Chicago), June 7 (Cincinnati, OH), June 8 (St.
Louis), June 14 (New York), July 5 (Houston) and July 14 (Atlanta). Usher
is also attempting to get Oscar Goddess, Halle Berry to appear in his next
video.
• A Janitor who
states that his idea was stolen is suing Eddie Murphy. The man alleges
that the PJ's was his brainchild.
• N Sync'er Justin
Timberlake is said to be "taking a year off" from his group. Sources say
that after their tour ends on April 28th, Justin will begin working on his
solo debut.
• On April 3rd,
Diddy announced on TRL that a member of Dream (Melissa Schuman) has quit
the group to pursue her acting career. Puff recently held auditions for a
new fourth member.
• Also, rumor has it
that Foxy Brown is set to start recording her fourth and final album for
Island/Def Jam. Will Ill Na Na; Foxy Brown become a P-Diddy Artist? Only
time will tell.
• Daughter of late
great Marvin Gaye, Nona Gaye will take on the role in the sequel to the
Matrix. The late Aaliyah originally cast the part.
• Busa-Bus' (Busta
Rhymes) is set to go on the "Area: Two" tour with Moby, featuring David
Bowie.
• Controversial
Rapper Eminem has paid $100,000 to a man who allegedly disrespected him by
kissing his wife. The incident happened in Michigan at a sports bar.
• Voletta Wallace,
mother of slain rapper The Notorious B.I.G. has filed a suit against the
LAPD.
••• |
