free downloads, mp3, album reviews, concert reviews, interviews, documentaries
May 9, 2013
Last month, we got a chance to hang out with Miami-based Hip Hop duo, The Vagabonds, and their long time friend and soulhead contributor, Jay Fingers. Read more of this post
April 15, 2013
Earlier today, we brought you the new single from former Five Star lead singer, Deniece Pearson. The new single, Close to Nowhere, and its video reminded us of how influential and unsung this British group were during their height. While looking back for some interviews, we came upon this recently chat on BBC1 that provides an update on what these “UK Jacksons” have been up to over the past years. Enjoy! Read more of this post
April 10, 2013
We thoroughly enjoyed the spectacular performances of Memphis Soul last night at the White House and are happy to have discovered this panel discussion featuring many of the performers. Read more of this post
April 3, 2013
This is an incredible interview with one of the most important designers that many of you outside of the U.S. may have never heard of, Dapper Dan. In fact, many outside of New York may not be aware that this cat revolutionized the way many celebrated rappers (and their fans) dressed “back in the day”. Peep game. Read more of this post
March 27, 2013
Between 1980 and ’99, Prince had more songs on the Billboard Hot 100 chart than any other artist. MSNBC’s Toure talks about his new book, “I Would Die 4 U,” which explores the mix of sexuality and spirituality that made Prince famous. Read more of this post
March 13, 2013
It is no surprise that Bilal is not a fan of the monicker, neo soul. For many, it unfairly categorized a form of music that should have been considered a natural extension of soul instead of a divisive attempt by the industry to segregate artists. Bilal talks about this and more in this short clip from an interview conducted by The Grio‘s Kyle Harvey. Making the rounds for his recently released Love Surreal project (which we reviewed), Bilal opens up in this interview about music and his admiration for Prince. Enjoy. Read more of this post
March 9, 2013
We are super happy to bring this incredible discussion about one of the most important radio programs of all time. The Stretch Armstrong and Bobbito show helped to set the standard for hip hop radio and we are happy to see these brothers getting some shine.
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March 7, 2013
This is a really funny interview conducted by the Skorpian Show with industry vet Brandy and emerging star, Luke James. Check out the interplay between the group. There are some good laughs here. Read more of this post
March 6, 2013
Super producer Teddy Riley will go down as one of the most important figures in modern music. From his seminal work with Keith Sweat, Guy and Michael Jackson to his later work with Blackstreet, this talented musician certainly deserves our attention when he speaks, which isn’t that often. Enjoy this interview from last years NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) conference where he discusses some of the tools he uses for his legendary recordings! Read more of this post
March 5, 2013
On March 1, 2013 Nelson George hosted a screening and discussion of the 1985 hip-hop movie Krush Groove, the panelists were Bill Stephney and Bill Adler. Held at NJPAC in Newark, NJ. Read more of this post
February 13, 2013
Like a lot of folks in the soul music community, we are eagerly anticipating the release of Bilal‘s forthcoming LP, Love Surreal. There have been a couple leaks and a mixtape but no record just yet. The latest estimate is that the record will be ready later this month. Until then, check out this 2-part interview conducted by Master of the Mix DJ, producer and artist Vikter Duplaix. Read more of this post
February 8, 2013
This is an incredibly rare interview and radio session from 1982 featuring the late Donald Byrd and UK DJ Robbie Vincent on his famous Radio London Soul Show. Nearly 30 years old this tape has been lovingly restored and is now available for public consumption. As you will hear, Donald Byrd was in England on tour and stopped by the show on his way to the concert later that evening. On the show, Donald and Robbie take calls from the audience and talk about music, beer (Donald likes Newcastle Brown Ale, which is our staff favorite), Motown, The Mizell Brothers, Patrice Rushen, Kool & The Gang among other subjects. Read more of this post
February 6, 2013
We would like to wish the late Nesta Robert Marley, more popularly known as Bob Marley, a Happy Birthday today on what would have been his 68th birthday. Bob Marley touched the World with his uplifting songs, spirit and humanitarianism. He remains one of the most important musicians and political figures of the past 50 years. His legacy continues to grow as a new generation of listeners are turned on to his mystical rhythms and magical voice. Read more of this post
February 5, 2013
This incredible footage was filmed after Rick James’ legendary performance in Germany in 1982. It features member of the Stone City band as well as The Mary Jane Girls before their first album. We are really amazed how shiny everyone is. Enjoy. Read more of this post
January 28, 2013
In honor of the recent passing of one of soul and funk’s legendary musicians, Leroy “Sugarfoot” Bonner, we wanted to present this really amazing footage featuring the late Don Cornelius, the Soul Train dancers and of course, The Ohio Players. Although not recorded live (and without controversy), the performance of this track when it was hot is something to behold. Enjoy. Read more of this post
January 23, 2013
Thanks to Digital Star media for this interview with R&B rising star, Miguel, who is currently on tour in the UK promoting his Kaleidoscope Dream LP. In this interview, he speaks about the current state of soul music, his artistic process, touring and his fans. We really enjoyed this chat.
January 22, 2013
We’re listening to this right now and it’s a pretty intriguing episode. Jay talks life, art and the hustle! Enjoy with us.
January 17, 2013
This is an amazing interview with Sade conducted by one of our favorite radio DJs of all time, Donnie Simpson. In the interview, Donnie touches on a number of topics from interracial relationships, music and Sade’s childhood among others. As we continue to celebrate this awesome artist this week for her birthday, take some time to peep this.
January 12, 2013
We spoke with Troy Gua last year and we in complete love with his artistic creations, especially Le Petit Prince. Check out this cool interview that we learned about recently.
K Nicola sat down for an interview late last year with Seattle Artist Troy Gua, best known as the creator of Le Petit Prince. Check out the very first video interview on “Dyes Got the Answers 2 Ur ?s,” produced and edited by Elke Hatuala, where Gua discusses upcoming projects, popular culture as an art subject and how Prince inspires his work. Also, stayed tuned for a special bonus after the final credits:
January 11, 2013
Hip hop producer discusses his vinyl obsession and production style. Enjoy!
