free downloads, mp3, album reviews, concert reviews, interviews, documentaries
June 13, 2013
Artist: Gwen Bunn
Title: The Verdict
Hood: Decatur, Georgia USA
Genre(s): Soul, Hip Hop, R&B, Electronic, Jazz
Label: Independent
Released: December 25, 2009
Social: Facebook Twitter
Read more of this post
April 26, 2013
We are happy to present this short special on the Hammond Organ, which follows our recent obsession with the amazing instrument. Earlier this week, we brought you an incredible album stream but Wayne Carter & The Organ Twisters and an informative German documentary on the jazz organist Jimmy Smith, who was a virtuoso on the instrument. Enjoy! Read more of this post
April 25, 2013
Duration : 1:31:35
While this documentary of unknown origin does not include English subtitles, we learned a ton about this amazing organist, Jimmy Smith, who revolutionized the way the instrument was played. As we continue to delve in the Hammond organ, its sound, and its influence in classic soul and funk, we found this doc extremely entertaining. Enjoy! Read more of this post
April 24, 2013
Earlier this month, we were pleased to witness a very soulful performance by internationally known singer Imani Uzuri at The Blue Note in Greenwich Village in New York City on April 1, 2013. Her spellbinding performance (which we captured in pictures), showcased her remarkable vocal abilities and re-introduced her critically acclaimed Gypsy Diaries project to those in attendance. We have been friends and fans of Imani’s since the before the turn of this century and look forward to many more years of wonderful sounds from this powerful sister.
Check out our Q&A with Imani: Read more of this post
April 22, 2013
Artist: Little BIG Things
Title: Little BIG Things – The Mixtape
Hood: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania USA
Genre(s): Soul, Jazz, Funk, Rare Groove
Released: December 2012
Super soulful and jazzy at the same time, this mixtape give you everything you need for that mid day pick me up. Enjoy!
Description from Soundcloud:
The Little Big Things Crew brings you their first release: Little BIG Things – The Mix Tape, an all 7-inch mix of funk, soul, disco and boogie tunes mixed, cut and scraped by Philadelphia crate diggers Personify, FROZ1 and Case Bloom. We dug deep in our collections to compile a mix guaranteed to have your deck on blast from start to finish. Little records – BIG TUNES. Bang it loud and enjoy. And next time you’re in Philly, be sure to check out The Little Big Things Crew at The Trestle Inn’s Souled Out every 2nd Friday for the best whiskey sours in the city, Go-Go dancers, and the illest funk, soul, disco, boogie and latin 45s.
Tracklist:
1.) Sisters Love – Now Is The Time
2.) Rudy Love & The Love Family – Does Your Mama Know
3.) The Turtles – Buzz Saw
4.) Jimmy Norman – Gangster of Love Part 1
5.) Chuck Womack and The Sweet Souls – Ham Hocks and Beans
6.) B.E.H. – In the Middle of Blind Alley My Mind’s Playing Tricks on Me (Little Big Things Edit)
7.) Mocambo Allstars – The Next Message (Kenny Dope Mix)
8.) Lee Fields – I’m The Man
9.) Charles Wright & The Watts 103rd Street Band – What Can You Bring Me
10.) The Meters – People Say
11.) Lou Courtney – Hot Butter N’ All Part 1
12.) The Herb Johnson Settlement – Damph F’aint
13.) Jimmy Jones – Time and Changes
14.) Bernard Wright – Chillin’ Out
15.) Crown Heights Affair – Move Your Body and Soul
16.) Brother to Brother – In The Bottle
17.) Joe Bataan – The Bottle (La Botella)
18.) Gil Scott Heron – New World Revolution
19.) Kool & The Gang – Caribbean Festival (Disco Version)
20.) Yambu – Sunny
21.) Crown Heights Affair – Dreaming on a Dream
22.) Freeez – Southern Freeez
23.) Secret Weapon – Must Be The Music Instrumental
24.) Skyy – Here’s To You
25.) D-Train – You’re the One for Me
26.) Donald Byrd – Think Twice
27.) The S.S.O. Orchestra – Faded Lady Instrumental
28.) George McRae – Look at You
29.) Gwen McRae – Funky Sensation
30.) Linda Clifford – Runaway Love
31.) Universal Robot Band – Dance and Shake Your Tambourine
32.) Ronnie Laws – Always There
33.) Weldon Irvine – I Love You
February 28, 2013
Still sad from the recent loss of jazz soul funk legend Donald Byrd, we are super excited that the music community continues to bring us enough grooves to keep his memory alive. This time, we get a gift from Blue Note Records. Check this out. Read more of this post
February 13, 2013
Artist: TheeSatisfaction
Title: Loves Erykah Badu
Released: January 28, 2013
Hood: Seattle, Washington USA
Label: SubPop
Genre(s): R&B, Soul, Hip-Hop, Psychedelica
We got hip to these Seattle ladies last year when we strolled into Other Music, one of the best of the remaining record stores in Manhattan. After snooping around a bit, our guy asked if we had heard this group, TheeSatisfaction (Catherine Harris-White & Stasia Irons). We hadn’t but took a chance. That album, awE NaturalE, was released on SubPop records shortly before I walked into the shop. Luckily, a speaking engagement at Stanford took us out to the West Coast, where we needed to be to hear this record for the first time. Full of very abstract beats, rhymes and grooves, their song needed to be heard where it could breath. Thus, on highway 280, we slid the CD in and just listened. Although every song was not a banger, per se, we could see where this duo was going and decided to keep them on our radar. Read more of this post
February 7, 2013
We are sad to report that jazz, funk and soul legend Donald Byrd, has died at the age of 80. This incredibly talented musician left an indelible mark on popular music that will continue to resonate. Having been sampled by some of hip hop’s most notable artists, the legends sound changed the way we heard jazz and we are blessed to have received his gift. R.I.P. Read more of this post
January 28, 2013
We loved this great performance this past weekend by soul music star, John Legend, who was one of the top acts, along with Mary J. Blige and Dionne Warwick, featured at this year’s Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival, which is held each year on the island and features top talent from the world of R&B, Soul, Jazz and other related genres. This solid footage includes Green Light and Best You Ever Had Read more of this post
January 10, 2013
Gilles Peterson is one incredible tastemaker across the pond and Worldwide. For those not in the know, he chooses the best of the best each year for his Worldwide Awards. The list always features artists who are bubbling up in the underground. This is one enjoyable listen for sure. Read more of this post
January 4, 2013
Artist: Water Seed
Title: Feel Like I Do (The Suite) featuring DJ Roberto Ingram and Jon Bibbs
Hood: Atlanta, Georgia USA via New Orleans, Louisiana USA
Genre(s): Funk, Soul, Jazz
Rating: A
Read more of this post
November 30, 2012
Artist: Fathom 9
Title: Soul-Heart Sessions: An Ode to Autumn FULL STREAM
Hood: Memphis, Tennessee USA
Genre: Hip Hop(Instrumental ), Soul Samples, Jazz
You will like this if you like: Oddisee, The Stuyvesants
Released: October 18, 2012
Mail | Facebook | Blogspot | Tumblr
This is an extremely soulful, albeit mellow, way to cruise through your morning cup of coffee while also paying homage to hip-hop and the Autumn (our favorite time of year). Powered by an extensive (and deep) collage of classic and rare soul samples and Golden Era boom-bap beats, Memphis producer Fathom 9‘s mostly instrumental hip-hop album will have your neck hurting from all the serious nodding you will be doing. Read more of this post
November 19, 2012
We are pleased to bring you this incredible documentary from British soul siren and serious hit maker, Lisa Stansfield. Since she came onto the scene over 20 years ago, she has thrilled audiences with her voice, beauty and impressive performances worldwide. This concert film showcases her hits as well as several jazz standards. Enjoy. Read more of this post
June 12, 2012
There are a lot of great events going on this summer for soul music lovers all over. And if you live on the west coast or will be visiting, you’ll definitely want to use soulhead’s Summer Music Guide—West Coast to make this summer So[ul] unforgettable! This guide includes R&B, soul, and hip-hop events from mid-June to the end of August and each month is broken down by region to make it easy for you to find out what’s going on in your area. Events highlighted in orange are must sees! Feel free to share additional events in the comment box!
March 30, 2012
Incredible British documentary about a virtuoso of music. Jazz and beyond.
More about Miles Davis from AllMusic.com:
Throughout a professional career lasting 50 years, Miles Davis played the trumpet in a lyrical, introspective, and melodic style, often employing a stemless Harmon mute to make his sound more personal and intimate. But if his approach to his instrument was constant, his approach to jazz was dazzlingly protean. To examine his career is to examine the history of jazz from the mid-’40s to the early ’90s, since he was in the thick of almost every important innovation and stylistic development in the music during that period, and he often led the way in those changes, both with his own performances and recordings and by choosing sidemen and collaborators who forged new directions. It can even be argued that jazz stopped evolving when Davis wasn’t there to push it forward. Full bio.
March 23, 2012
From Ted.com:
One of the giants of South African music, Masekela’s work has closely charted the history of his country of birth. Throughout the 60s and 70s the legendary trumpeter’s music was inspired by the hardships and humiliations visited on his countrymen by the apartheid regime. His musical styles have ranged from township jazz and blues to funk and rock; he has toured with Paul Simon and appeared on stage with U2 and many others. Throughout his career he has remained outspoken on civil rights, and he has being steadfast in articulating and defending the heritage and culture of his fellow countrymen.
About TEDx, x = independently organized event
In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)
March 5, 2012
Brooklyn soulheads were pleased to welcome soul funk legend Roy Ayers to the newly opened SRB Brooklyn venue. The place was packed and we are happy to bring you this incredible footage of this show. Growing up in Washington D.C., it was a pleasure to see Roy each year at the Fort Dupont music festival. So happy to see him here in Brooklyn. Enjoy this 7 part glimpse into this weekend’s show.
March 2, 2012
We just found out about this super cool show that is going on in our back yard this evening and tomorrow evening. soulheads in the NYC area, get out there and support this legend of soul, funk and jazz.
Artist: Roy Ayers
Date: Friday, March 2 – Saturday, March 3, 2012
Time: 9:00PM
Price: $30.00
Location: SRB Brooklyn
Directions
Description from SRB:
ROY AYERS AT SRB.
The legendary Roy Ayers will be perfoming.
GRAND OPENING MARCH 2nd AND 3RD WITH THE GODFATHER OF NEO SOUL & ACID JAZZ
DOORS OPEN AT 9:00PM
GENERAL ADM $30.00
BOTTLE SERVICE $300.00 FOR A GROUP OF 4
For reservations please call 718-499-1700 or fill out the reservation contract and email it back to brandt@srbbrooklyn.com or fax to 718-499-5611.
More about Roy Ayers from AllMusic.com
Once one of the most visible and winning jazz vibraphonists of the 1960s, then an R&B bandleader in the 1970s and ’80s, Roy Ayers’ reputation s now that of one of the prophets of acid jazz, a man decades ahead of his time. A tune like 1972′s “Move to Groove” by the Roy Ayers Ubiquity has a crackling backbeat that serves as the prototype for the shuffling hip-hop groove that became, shall we say, ubiquitous on acid jazz records; and his relaxed 1976 song “Everybody Loves the Sunshine” has been frequently sampled. Yet Ayers’ own playing has always been rooted in hard bop: crisp, lyrical, rhythmically resilient. His own reaction to being canonized by the hip-hop crowd as the “Icon Man” is tempered with the detachment of a survivor in a rough business. “I’m having fun laughing with it,” he has said. “I don’t mind what they call me, that’s what people do in this industry.”
Growing up in a musical family — his father played trombone, his mother taught him the piano — the five-year-old Ayers was given a set of vibe mallets by Lionel Hampton, but didn’t start on the instrument until he was 17. He got involved in the West Coast jazz scene in his early 20s, recording with Curtis Amy (1962), Jack Wilson (1963-1967), and the Gerald Wilson Orchestra (1965-1966); and playing with Teddy Edwards, Chico Hamilton, Hampton Hawes and Phineas Newborn. A session with Herbie Mann at the Lighthouse in Hermosa Beach led to a four-year gig with the versatile flutist (1966-1970), an experience that gave Ayers tremendous exposure and opened his ears to styles of music other than the bebop that he had grown up with.
After being featured prominently on Mann’s hit Memphis Underground album and recording three solo albums for Atlantic under Mann’s supervision, Ayers left the group in 1970 to form the Roy Ayers Ubiquity, which recorded several albums for Polydor and featured such players as Sonny Fortune, Billy Cobham, Omar Hakim, and Alphonse Mouzon. An R&B-jazz-rock band influenced by electric Miles Davis and the Herbie Hancock Sextet at first, the Ubiquity gradually shed its jazz component in favor of R&B/funk and disco. Though Ayers’ pop records were commercially successful, with several charted singles on the R&B charts for Polydor and Columbia, they became increasingly, perhaps correspondingly, devoid of musical interest.
In the 1980s, besides leading his bands and recording, Ayers collaborated with Nigerian musician Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, formed Uno Melodic Records, and produced and/or co-wrote several recordings for various artists. As the merger of hip-hop and jazz took hold in the early ’90s, Ayers made a guest appearance on Guru’s seminal Jazzmatazz album in 1993 and played at New York clubs with Guru and Donald Byrd. Though most of his solo records had been out of print for years, Verve issued a two-CD anthology of his work with Ubiquity and the first U.S. release of a live gig at the 1972 Montreux Jazz Festival; the latter finds the group playing excellent straight-ahead jazz, as well as jazz-rock and R&B.
And of course, we know Roy will turn the place out with this one:
and who knows if Mos Def will show up and spit this classic:
Have fun y’all!
January 18, 2012
This rare documentary was broadcasted for the first time in 1981 by the BBC.
It’s is about the 1980/1981 USA tour by Stevie Wonder looking at Read more of this post
July 21, 2011
From TVOneOnline.com – When Angela Winbush came on the scene in the 1980s, she brought not only a powerful sultry voice infused with gospel roots, but also a versatile self-contained songwriting and producing talent at a time when few females, and even fewer African American females, were producing records at all. As one-half of Rene & Angela, and as a solo artist, she sold over ten million albums and singles worldwide. With a multi-octave voice heavily rooted in the church, this former member of Stevie Wonder’s band Wonderlove developed a strong desire to control the creativity of her music, and the talent to back it up. In this revealing episode of ‘Unsung’, Angela provides candid details about the ups and downs of her career. While writing a string of hits for herself, she also wrote and produced for a range of artists including Janet Jackson, Stephanie Mills and the Isley Brothers. Along with all the musical highs, Angela faced dramatic challenges along the way: the breakup of a prolific partnership with Rene Moore, bitter lawsuits over music copyrights, a celebrity marriage and divorce from R&B icon Ron Isley, and a high-stakes battle with ovarian cancer. Through it all, she has used her church roots to maintain a fearless spirit that has carried her through
