Soul Tracks

Another day. Another track. I've complied a list of my favorite tracks from 2008 and have been dishing them out on a daily basis. Today, Estelle, a standout artist from the pool of Brit soul imports, joins the ranks of the male dominated list with the sensual 'Come Over,' a superb blend of hip hop, soul and reggae. Not only is this track one of my faves but it is also one of 2008's sexiest songs, it would be a great addition to any homemade baby makin' music CD. The sole singer signed to John Legend's HomeSchool Records expects a follow up to her American debut to hit stores sometime next year.

Video Soul

"that girl thinks that shes so bad
she'll change my tears from joy to sad
she says she keeps the upper hand
cause she can please her man..."

Soul Heaven

Eartha Kitt (1927-2008)
Eartha Kitt, a Seducer of Audiences, Dies at 81 {The New York Times}

Soul Fixin'

Merry Christmas

Soul Tracks

As all things 2008 come to a close, I've decided to share a couple of my favorite songs from the past twelve months. I kicked things off on Monday with the Al Green and Corrine Bailey-Rae duet 'Take Your Time.' On Tuesday,Raphael Saadiq's Motown infused 'Staying In Love', surfaced on the list. Up next is a tune from soul crooner Robin Thicke's '08 release Something Else. Even though Robin Thicke upset me a few months ago by claiming VIBE magazine has a strict policy against having white artists on the cover, I was the digging the track 'Dreamworld' the moment I heard it. The somber tune, that invokes the memory of Marvin Gaye among other things, proved to be a magic moment on an album that failed to please the masses. Sit back and enjoy.

Soul Fixin'

Spend 21 NIGHTS with Prince
In need of a last minute Christmas gift? Jet over to your favorite bookstore and cop Prince's first book 21 NIGHTS. The multimedia tome chronicles Prince's unprecedented, record-breaking, sold-out 21 concerts in 21 nights at London’s O2 Arena in 2007 through photographic essays and contains Prince's expressive poetry and lyrics along with 124 lavish never before published photos by famed photographer Randee St. Nicholas. Indigo Nights/Live Sessions is also featured in the project, the live 15-track CD captures the raw, magical, legendary after-show sessions Prince is known for.

Soul Fixin'

Aretha Sings 'Touch My Body'...Again

Aretha Franklin was at it again. The 66 year old legend, who is set to sing at Obama's inauguration, performed an entertaining and playful version of Mariah Carey's 'Touch My Body' at a fund-raising concert at NYC's Nokia Theater. The lyrics proved to be a little too suggestive for Aretha as she declared "somebody tell Mariah I can't sing that stuff...wrestle me around...throw me on the floor...I don't think so."

Video Soul

"now I finally realized
you’re like heaven in my eyes
I took a long time, I apologize
even though at times you messed up
shaking your ass up in the club, that’s messed up"

Soul Tracks

Creating music is a gift from God, and Mr. Saadiq is undeniable gifted. Raphael Saadiq was one of a handful of artist who successfully restored the classic sound of soul music in '08. Saadiq's 2008 release, The Way I See It, recalls the magic of Motown, the sound of Philly and the gutbucket soul of Memphis. Saadiq's 'Staying In Love,' makes my list of favorite songs of 2008. Clocking in at a mere 2 minutes and 56 seconds, 'Staying In Love,' with it's captivating hook, sounds like a Motown song that never was.

Soul Fixin'

Have A Soulful Christmas
Are you in need of a Christmas soundtrack full of soul? Look no further. The good folks at Kevin|Nottingham have complied a list of soulful Christmas tunes available for download. Guess what? It's free. Donny Hathaway's epic 'This Christmas' is included on the compilation along with other favorites such as The Temptations 'Silent Night,' Ike & Tina's 'Merry Christmas Baby,' Luther's 'Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,' and James Brown 'Santa Claus, Go Straight To The Ghetto.' Click here and get into the spirit.

Soul Fixin'

India.Arie Offers Some 'Therapy'
Acoustic soul singer India.Arie has released another single from her upcoming album, Testimony: Vol. 2, Love & Politics. 'Therapy' featuring reggae artist Roy 'Gramps' Morgan is a far cry from India's signature acoustic soul sound. India steps out of the box and crafts an infectious pop tune. She is obviously reaching for a broader audience, I can't knock a girl for trying. The track has a great deal of potential. It may take awhile, but the song will definitely grow on you. India.Arie's fourth album, Testimony: Vol. 2, Love & Politics, hits stores February 10.

Video Soul

"lord lift me over the hurt and pain
deliver me from the rain
see I don't wanna stress over stress no more
I don't wanna struggle no more..."

Soul Tracks

As the end of 2008 draws near, I have decided to share a couple of my favorite tracks, in no particular order, from the past twelve months. When it comes to soul music I'm a traditionalist. In other words, I'm an 'old soul.' I need that 'stick to your ribs' soul music. I got plenty of that in '08. Al Green's Lay It Down, classic Al with a new twist, gave me the soul fixin' I needed. Kicking things off is the Al Green and Corrine Bailey-Rae duet 'Take Your Time,' a song that was in heavy rotation around these parts. At the age of 62, Al proved he can still set the mood. Rev. Al's seductive falsetto complimented with whispers and animated cries created a a sweet sentimental song of pure surrender.

Soul Fixin'

Jazmine Sullivan, 'The Old Soul' of R&B
Jazmine Sullivan. The 21 year old R&B newcomer was recently nominated for five Grammys. The extra soulful 'In Love With Another Man' grabbed a nomination for Best Traditional R&B Performance. Jaz's performance on the track is full of vulnerability, sincerity, and maturity. It's hard to fathom the voice belongs to a 21 year old. Today, I came across the amazing video below. You may be one of the 578,023 people who have witnessed Jazmine singing 'In Love With Another Man' before staffers at Seventeen magazine. If you haven't witnessed this amazing clip, consider it an early Christmas gift. Enjoy.

Soul Fixin'

Rahsaan's Ultimate Christmas Gift
Rahsaan Patterson is offering The Ultimate Gift this Christmas season. The soul crooner joins the laundry list of singers releasing holiday albums. The Ultimate Gift marks Rahsaan's first holiday LP in his ten year career. The 11 track album includes eight original songs and the soon to be classic 'Christmas At My House.' A handful of tracks can be heard on Rahsaan's Myspace page. The Ultimate Gift is available now.

Video Soul

"you're a shinig star, no matter who you are
shining bright to see what you can truly be..."

Soul Fixin'

Obama Disappoints With Latest Pick
Rarely do I disagree with President-elect Barack Obama. He is responsible for making astute decisions throughout the campaign and during the current transition phrase. In the weeks that followed his historic victory, Obama has appointed numerous 'Clintonites' to key positions within his cabinet. It has now been announced that a favorite of the Clinton White House will lend her voice to Barack Obama’s historical inaugural swearing-in ceremony on Jan. 20.  Aretha Franklin, that is. The 'Queen of Soul' performed at two Clinton inaugural balls, entertained in the Rose  Garden and received the illustrious Kennedy Center honor. In 1999, she was awarded The National Medal of Arts by President Clinton.Sister ReRe is a living legend, her career has been marked by a slew of achievements, acclaim, and milestones. Aretha has won an astonishing 20 Grammy Awards including the Living Legend Award and Lifetime Achievement Award. The Memphis born- Detroit raised, gospel bred singer was the first black woman to grace the cover of Time magazine and she was the first female to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Without a doubt, Aretha is worthy of sharing the national stage with Obama. While we all love us some 'Retha, I was hoping Team Obama would pick a performer that mirrored Obama's campaign; young, fresh, innovative, ground-breaking, and energetic. Jill Scott immediately comes to mind. Chrisette Michele and Ledisi fit the bill. Other emerging acts and established soul singers such as Raheem DeVaughn, India Arie, John Legend, and Anthony Hamilton are suitable picks. Needless to say, this blogger is a little disappointed with Obama's selection of Soul Singer -In- Chief, if you will.

Soul Fixin'

Anthony Hamilton Covers Sam Cooke

President-elect Barack Obama has inspired us all and promised a change in America. So, it is no coincidence that soul man Anthony Hamilton took a stab at Sam Cooke's larger than life 'A Change Is Gonna Come,' on his current Playin' It Cool Tour. Anthony was kind enough to share the video with us on his tour blog. Anthony Hamilton, a man who possesses fragments of DNA from soul legends such as Bobby Womack, Al Green, and Otis Redding, serves up a cool cover of the Cooke classic. A. Ham is just an all around cool dude.

Video Soul

"baby, I'm in need of your love
and you got that touch
that I need so much
and I am about to explode..."

Soul Fixin'

Is Kanye The Next Marvin Gaye?
As you may know, Kanye's forthcoming album, 808s & HEARTBREAK, is a far cry from previous releases. Kanye, who has been making headlines for all the wrong reasons lately, is flexing his vocal ability on 808s & HEARTBREAK. One of the best MC's in the game decided to give up on rapping for a minute. The blame lies squarely on T-Pain and the auto-tune craze. Leery fans like myself can listen to the album in its entirety for free on Yeezy's Myspace page. 808s & HEARTBREAK drops tomorrow, November 24.

Video Soul

"because i realized i got
me myself and I
that's all i got in the end"

Soul Fixin'

Slim Offers Up Some 'Good Lovin'

Slim's video for his second single featuring Ryan Leslie and Fabolous, 'Good Lovin', has hit the net. Unfortunately, 112 is no longer a group. Slim's solo debut, Love's Crazy, hit stores on Tuesday. The song and video fit the formula for your typical run of the mill commercial R&B. Needless to say, I'm no big fan of the song or video. On the other hand, you might enjoy it. Watch the clip and let us what you think.

Soul Fixin'

Common Unveils Website & Blog
Common has ventured into new territory, the Chi-Town MC has launched his own website and blog at ThinkCommon.com. A big step for a man who has never been a big fan of the internet. Common joins a laundry list of rappers and soulsters with a blog. Partner in rhyme and fellow blogger and Chi-Town native Kayne West may have been the motivating force. The appealing site has great potential, it includes a blog, tour information, press archives, music videos, and movie trailers. Check it out.

Video Soul

Soul Tracks

Yes, today's Soul Tracks selection comes from a rapper. Can rap music be considered soul music? It sure can. Some define soul music as the output of music from the 60's and 70's. Soul music is not only Aretha and Donny or Stax and Motown. Soul music is Jay-Z, The Clark Sisters, Cassandra Wilson, Talib Kweli, John Mayer, Teena Marie, Shirley Caesar, and Kanye West. Soul music is jazz, blues, gospel, hip-hop, and rock. Soul music is 'forever music.' Common breaks it down for us "music can be forever if you make it from the heart, if you make it from the soul and it’s good. And I look at the music of like Bob Marley or Marvin Gaye or Stevie Wonder or A Tribe Called Quest, that's forever music. And I’m continuing on the quest to make forever music." Common's 'So Far To Go' is definitely forever music. The track is significant for two reasons, one, it was produced by J Dilla, who passed away in 2006, and two, it features missing in action soul brother D'Angelo, who, let's keep our fingers crossed, is working on a new album. The track borrows the love making theme from the composition it samples, The Isley Brothers' 'Don't Say Goodnight (It's Time For Love).' Common isn't your average rapper. Common is a grown ass man who has lived a lifetime of experiences. It is the 'grown ass man' within Common that allows him to rhyme about sexual intercourse without being brash, raunchy, or explicit. The mind stimulating lyrics in 'So Far To Go' are thought provoking, intelligent, and sensual. It takes a few listens before you realize Common is actually rhyming about sex. Common is deep like that. Peep the poetry in motion "let me live inside you...what your mouth don’t say...baby your thighs do...I want us to arrive together...I love it when the weather...is wet and sticky."

Soul Fixin'

Ladies, Watch Out For 'T.O.N.Y'

Solange Knowles has been garnering a fair amount of buzz with her Motown and classic soul inspired album, Sol-Angel and the Hadley St. Dreams. The black and white video for her latest single 'T.O.N.Y' a/k/a "The Other Night Y???" is available for your viewing pleasure. A ultra swanky New York City block serves as the backdrop for Ms. Knowles melodrama. The video opens with Solange strutting down the block on her way home singing her disdain for 'T.O.N.Y.' Once she arrives at her humble abode, she takes a pregnancy test. The results leave her unborn child's father in a state of shock and confusion. All in all, the video is a great compliment to an interesting song.

Soul Fixin'

Seal Misses The Mark With Latest Vid

Seal is definitely worthy of borrowing James Brown's moniker, 'The Hardest Working Man in Show Business.' The British singer has just released his fourth video for his album Soul, a tribute to soul music. The latest video is for his lackluster cover of Ann Peebles 1973 signature tune 'I Can't Stand The Rain.' The video doesn't fare much better, it's difficult to distinguish it from his previous video. Once again, Seal is shifting around a dark, decrepit room singing his heart out. The presence of Seal's band proves to be the sole difference. It may be time for Seal to slow down and get creative.

Soul Fixin'

What Singers Top Your Greatest List?

As you may know, Rolling Stone magazined has complied a list of the '100 Greatest Singers' of the rock era. The iconic magazine dedicated to music recruited a gang of singers, editors, producers and music-industry insiders, which included Clive Davis, Alicia Keys, Etta James, B.B King & Mavis Staples - to name a few, to compile the list of 100 Greatest Singers. Aretha Franklin came out on top. Ray Charles, Elvis Presley, Sam Cooke, John Lennon, Marvin Gaye, Bob Dylan, Otis Redding, Stevie Wonder and James Brown all pulled in enough votes to occupy space in the Top 10. The complete list can be viewed here. The message boards over at Rolling Stone are full of dissatisfied critics questioning the mag's picks. Below is a copy of Solomon Burke's handwritten ballot. Burke's ballot included some interesting picks, accommodating the likes of Beyonce, India.Arie, Irma Thomas and Christina Aguilera. Let's assume Rolling Stone sent you a ballot. What singers would top your list? No need to undertake the tedious task of listing 20 singers, drop your top 10 picks in the comments section.

Soul Fixin'

Gym Class Heroes & Estelle 'Guilty As Charged'

Much like Q-Tip, alternative indie/hip hop band Gym Class Heroes has borrowed a page from the Beatsie Boys. The Beatsie Boys video 'Sabotage' serves as inspiration for the groups latest video for 'Guilty As Charged,' along with karate and blaxploitation flicks from the 70's. Gym Class Heroes frontman Travis McCoy takes on the role of the fictitious Lucius Black and guest vocalist Estelle portrays fictional character Foxy Nefertiti in the action packed video. Check it out.

Soul Fixin'

The Making & Magic Of Motown
The latest issue of Vanity Fair celebrates the legacy of Motown Records. The famed label is the showpiece of the mag's annual music issue. Writer Lisa Robinson explores the history of the revolutionary label through the words of Berry Gordy, Stevie Wonder, Smokie Robinson, Suzanne de Passe and other members of the Motown family. The legends of Motown discuss everything from the rumors and scandals to the Dreamgirls controversy to the Jackson 5 to Florence Ballard and Gordy's relationship with Diana Ross. Famed photographer Annie Leibovitz rounded up Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, Berry Gordy, Lionel Richie, Martha Reeves, and other Motown alum for a historic portfolio. Lisa's article, 'It Happened In Hitsville, and Leibovitz portfolio, 'The Monarchs Of Motown' are available on Vanity Fair's website.

{Image Courtesy of Vanity Fair}

Video Soul

"in a time of need, I want to thank you for respecting me
in a time of worry, I want to thank you for calming my troubles
oh, I thank you baby
thank you honey, for loving a common man like me"

Soul Fixin'

Big Daddy Kane's 20th Anniversary
It's been 20 long years since Big Daddy Kane blessed us with his solo debut, Long Live The Kane, a standout album from the golden age of hip hop. Last week the hip hop legend celebrated 20 years in the game at B.B Kings in NYC. Kane took to the legendary stage with a live band and duo of DJ's and performed a memorable set reminiscent of a classic performance at the Palladium. Check out the video clip courtesy of Miss Info.

Soul Fixin'

Q-Tip's 'Renaissance Rap'
Days after releasing his first album since 1999's Amplified, Q- Tip has released another video for the masses. Borrowing a page from the Beatsie Boy's video for 'Sabotage,' Q- Tip and director Rick Cordero created a video for 'Renaissance Rap.' New York City serves as the backdrop for Tip's saga, in which he plays a game of cat and mouse with a group of secret agents. While Q-Tip's latest video won't help usher in a period of renaissance in hip-hop videos, it is worth watching. Take a look and let Public Soul Announcement know what you think.

Soul Fixin'

Thicke's 'Sweetest Love' Video

After raising a few eyebrows by claiming VIBE magazine has a strict policy against having white artists on the cover, Robin Thicke has released a video for his latest single 'Sweetest Love,' the perfect compliment to the sexy slow jam. The low definition black and white video alternate between two scenes, the blue eyed soul crooner singing at the piano and the bedroom featuring a scantily clad Jessica White. The ultra sexy bedroom scenes are made to resemble home a made movie. Needless to say, Thicke and his lady end up making the sweetest love.

Soul Fixin'

'Don't Ever Wonder' In Atlanta

As we all know Maxwell is out on the road doing his thing. The Maxwell Live '08 tour kicked off last month in South Africa and made stops in cities such as Detroit, Oakland, Houston, Boston, and San Diego. Maxwell will wrap things up next week in NY. Tickets are still available for his upcoming shows in Camden, NJ, Baltimore and NYC. If ticket prices are out of reach and you couldn't afford to miss another mortgage payment to see Maxwell's comeback tour, check out the clip below. Maxwell, performing at Atlanta's Civic Center, sings 'Don't Ever Wonder.'

Video Soul

"I'm lost without you
can't help myself
how does it feel?
to know that I love ya baby"

Soul Fixin'

The Sacred Soul Of Al Green
While surfing the net, I came across the video below. This is something you need to see. Recorded in July, this video shows Al Green singing 'How Can You Mend A Broken Heart.' 36 years after recording the Bee Gee's song for his 1972 critically-acclaimed album Let's Stay Together, Al Green is still the ambassador of love's pain and pleasure. Somewhere in between the sacred and secular exist the music of Al Green.

Soul Fixin'

Get Ready For BETJ Awards Show
BET's sister network BETJ, the place to discover real singers and musicians creating alternative soul & mature hip hop, will bring viewers its first ever awards show, The BET J Virtual Awards, slated to premiere on BET J on Tuesday, November 25 at 8:30 p.m. The ceremony, co-hosted by Nia Long, Chris Spencer and Claudia Jordan, will include appearances by Terrance Howard, SWV, En Vogue and Musiq with performances by Chrisette Michelle, The Roots, Robin Thicke, Erykah Badu, and Raheem DeVaughn - to name a few. Categories include Best Underground Artist, Soul Approved, and Live Performer of The Year. Erykah Badu & Alicia Keys lead the pack of nominees that includes Gnarls Barkley, Angie Stone, Jill Scott, Mary Mary, Estelle and others. Check out the BETJ Virtual Awards website to peep the complete list of nominees, watch a few videos and peek at a few flicks.

Soul Fixin'

LaBelle Is On Tour
After reuniting to record their first album in 32 years, LaBelle is hitting the road to bring their one of kind brand of funk, rock & soul to a city near you. The tour, LaBelle's first tour since 1977, kicks off next month at New York's famed Apollo Theater and makes stops in cities such as Detroit, Los Angeles, and Chicago - to name a few. The comeback album, Back To Now, the group's first album since 1976's Chamelon, is in stores now and includes production from Lenny Kravitz and Philly soul architects Kenneth Gamble & Leon Huff.

December 2008
19 - New York, NY - Apollo Theater

January 2009
10 - Chicago, IL - Chicago Theatre
17 - Atlantic City, NJ - Taj Mahal
18 - Detroit, MI - Fox Theatre
29 - Los Angeles, CA - Nokia Theatre
30 - Oakland, CA - Paramount Theatre

February 2009
13 - Washington, DC - Constitution Hall
14 - Atlanta, GA - Civic Center

Video Soul

"yesterday I saw a B-girl crying
I walked up and asked what’s wrong, she told me that the radio’s been playing the same song all day long"

Soul Fixin'

Deborah Cox Returns With 'Beautiful U R'
Music has seen it's fair share of songs offering encouragement to those with low self-esteem, women in particular. Christina Aguilera's 'Beautiful' and TLC's 'Unpretty' are clear examples of such songs. Deborah Cox is the latest singer to join the fold with her empowering anthem 'Beautiful U R.' A song with a simple and straightforward message: we are beautiful regardless of what others may say. The music video is simple and straight forward as well. Women, of all ages and colors are seen throughout the video embracing. A visibly pregnant Deborah Cox can be seen in her undergarments embracing the natural beauty of pregnancy. Deborah's latest release, her first album since departing Arista and taking the independent route, The Promise, is available now. The Canadian singer's fourth studio album includes production from Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis and soul singer John Legend.

Video Soul

"I'm rollin down a lonely highway
asking God to please forgive me
for messing up the blessing he gave to me"

Soul Fixin'

The Soul of Tarsha Hamilton
Who knew Anthony Hamilton's wife was a singer? I, for one, had no idea. Come to find out, Anthony's wife, Tarsha McMillian Hamilton, was featured on the track 'Preacher's Daughter' from Anthony's sophomore studio album. To my surprise, the Cleveland native has released an album, The McMillian Story, available at iTunes and www.tarshamhamilton.com. A trio of tracks from the album can be heard on Tarsha's Myspace Page. If you enjoyed the tracks as much as I did and are interested in catching her live set, a list of upcoming dates are posted on her Myspace page as well.

Soul Fixin'

Get On Board The Love Train

The Love Train is making it's way to PBS. The Sound Of Philly will be invading PBS stations nationwide Thanksgiving weekend. Love Train: The Sound of Philadelphia, a concert special, will feature renowned Philly soul acts The O'Jays, Harold Melvin's Blue Notes,Russell Thompkins and The New Stylistics, Jerry Butler and Bunny Sigler along with the 28-piece TSOP Orchestra. A remarkable box set chronicling the soul of Philly, Love Train:The Sound of Philadelphia, from the label founded by Gamble & Huff, Philadelphia International Records, is available on Amazon. With Thanksgiving weekend two weeks away, enjoy this clip from the concert special.

Soul Fixin'

The Latest On Keyshia Cole
The artwork for Keyshia Cole's upcoming release, A Different Me, has surfaced on the net.  According to her official website, all the songs for the December 16 release were written or co-written by Keyshia with production by Ron Fair, Polow Da Don, the Trackmasters, The Runners, Kwame and Neffu. The album's lead single 'Playa Cardz Right' features a posthumous appearance from Tupac. Rappers Kanye West and Nas are also featured on the album. Atlanta native and fellow songstress Monica joins Keyshia for a duet. With 3 albums and a hit reality show under her belt, Keyshia is venturing into the movie business. The 27 year old Oakland native is developing a movie based her life. Am I the only one who thinks the making of a movie is a bit premature?

Video Soul

"if tomorrow is a judgment day
and I'm standing on the front line
and the Lord ask me what I did with my life
I will say I spent it with you..."

Soul Fixin'

Amazing Aretha
After the release of her seventh studio album for Atlantic Records, Spirit In The Dark, Aretha made an appearance on The Flip Wilson Show in support of the new album. The clip below shows a portion of Aretha's appearance. During this time, Aretha embraced a new look, a more natural look. Gone were the gigantic wigs and eyelashes, Lady Soul was rockin' a fro and a free flowing gown inspired by the dress patterns of Africa. Sitting at the piano with Flip at her side, the two entertainers engage in a little chit chat before Aretha starts singing. The obvious choice of song would have been the #1 hit 'Don't Play That Song' or the #3 hit 'Spirit In The Dark.' But Aretha, in the midst of a brand new love affair, decided to sing one of her original tunes from the Spirit In The Dark album, 'You And Me', a simple love ballad full of ecstasy, warmth, affection, and optimism. Effortless. The sole word that is capable of describing Aretha's performance. No wonder Rolling Stone magazine crowned her the 'Greatest Singer of All Time.'

Soul Fixin'

Seal Sings Otis 
The music video for Seal's 'I've Been Loving You Too Long' has hit the net. Seal's latest album, Soul, consists of covers of soul classics including this Otis Redding tune. While Seal is no match for the gritty soul of Otis Redding, he is able to do the song justice with a refreshing sound that doesn't stray too far from the original. The video, simple and direct, captures Seal lighting a match and venturing into a dark lonely basement where he sings his heart out.

Soul Fixin'

TV One Premieres New Music Series
For every major star in the world of black music there are countless other singers who built a loyal black fan base but never achieved cross-over commercial success TV One has unveiled a new series, UnSung, that "profiles some of the most influential, talented yet forgotten R&B, Soul and Gospel artists of the 1970s, '80s and '90s." Season 1 premieres Thanksgiving day and takes a look at the careers and personal lives of Donny Hathaway, DeBarge, The Clark Sisters, and Phyllis Hyman. Check out the preview below.

Video Soul

"we've been kickin' it for quite some time
lots of private parties, where we're wined and dined
tonight I'm in a different mood, just wanna get close to you"

Soul Fixin'

Album Cover Hoax
Here's some good news. The alleged cover of Whitney's upcoming album was a hoax. I, like many others, fell for the okey doke. Who would do such a thing? Could Bobby Brown be the culprit? A rep for Whitney's label cleared the air, "The allegedly 'new' Whitney Houston album cover circulating throughout the Internet is not a legitimate album cover for Ms. Houston's forthcoming Arista disc. Ms. Houston is still recording and we look forward to unveiling new music along with the official album cover in due time." Whitney's comeback album, her first since 2002's Just Whitney, was due to hit stores early fall. No word on an official release date.

Soul Fixin'

The Latest On Anthony Hamilton
While Whitney's album cover was a hoax, the artwork for Anthony Hamilton's upcoming album is the real deal. Anthony's third album, The Point of It All, drops December 16. Anthony's 'Playin' It Cool' tour kicked off last week in Chicago. The soul singer has decided to blog about his experience out on the road. The Playin' It Cool Tour blog features exclusive photos and videos. The blog features very few words from its' author but it is worth checking out.

Soul Fixin'

A. Keys 'Late Show' Performance
The object of my affection, songstress Alicia Keys, stopped by the 'Late Show with David Letterman' to perform one of my personal favorites, 'The Thing About Love.' In case you don't know, A. Keys has re-released her last album. As I Am: The Super Edition includes 3 bonus tracks, 'Saviour,' 'Doncha Know (Sky Is Blue),' and her 007 duet with Jack White, 'Another Way To Die.' A bonus DVD is also included in the set and features a live performance in London.

Soul Fixin'

Aretha Tops Mag's '100 Greatest'Who is the greatest singer of all time? According to Rolling Stone magazine, Aretha Franklin is. The Queen of Soul ranked # 1 in a poll conducted by the iconic magazine dedicated to music. Sam Cooke, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Otis Redding & James Brown pulled in enough votes to occupy space in the Top 10. Rolling Stone recruited a gang of singers, editors, producers and music-industry insiders, which included Clive Davis, Alicia Keys, Etta James, B.B King & Mavis Staples - to name a few, to compile the list of 100 Greatest Singers. Mary J. Blige reflected on Aretha in a testimonial, "she is the reason why women want to sing." The 100 Greatest Singers of All Time issue, which includes four covers, hits newsstands Friday.

Soul Fixin'

Mary J. & Corporate America
Mary's career has skyrocketed with the release of two multi-platinum albums, The Breakthrough & Growing Pains, a slew of awards and accolades, high profile appearances, sold out tours including an outing with Jay-Z, and a multi-million dollar promotional deal with Chevy. The Queen of Hip Hop Soul has now teamed up with financial conglomerate Citibank to help pitch the brand new CitiCard. CitiCard holders are eligible to win an opportunity to take 5 friends to watch MJB record and mix a new album, round trip airfare, hotel accommodations, a spa day, autographed merchandise, and $5,000 spending money. MJB Fans can check out stories.citicards.com to play games with Mary's lyrics and watch behind the scenes interviews.

Video Soul

"my sunshine has come

and I'm all cried out
and there's no more rain in this cloud"

Soul Fixin'

Will.I.Am Declares 'It's A New Day'

Support for President-Elect Barack Obama has come from all corners of the globe and all arenas, from Hollywood to sports to music. The latest wave of support comes from Black Eyed Peas frontman Will.I.Am, who recorded the track 'Yes We Can' earlier this year. In the wake of Obama's historic election, Will.I.Am created a follow-up to 'Yes We Can,' 'It's A New Day.' The video features cameos from noteworthy Obama supporters and footage from Obama's big moment in Chicago. While 'It's A New Day' captures a historic moment in our nation's history, we can not allow ourselves to live in that moment and became complacent. We have to turn that moment into a movement. A movement for CHANGE. A portion of Dr. King's dream manifested itself in the election of Obama. It is now up to us to make sure the rest of his dream becomes a reality.