Soul Tracks

Allow me to introduce or reintroduce you to Leon Ware. Born and raised in Detroit, the prolific songwriter, producer, and singer naturally joined the Motown family in the 1960's. He was responsible for writing tunes for Motown acts such as The Isley Brothers, The Four Tops, and Michael Jackson. Ware's 1976 Musical Message went through a few changes before it was released. After completing the first version of the album, Leon Ware held a listening party at the home of Marvin Gaye. Marvin fell in love with the album's polished soulful light funk and jazz sounds and asked for the tracks. Ware obliged and Marvin recorded the songs for his intimate I Want You album. Leon Ware was back at the drawing board. He created a new set of songs, Berry Gordy and Marvin requested the  tracks as a follow up to I Want You but Ware had other plans and released his masterpiece Musical Message. The highly overlooked album, a standout in the Motown catalogue, served as a blueprint for disco. Today's Soul Tracks selection, 'Comfort (AKA Come Live With Me, Angel),' a song Gaye recorded for I Want You, was not included on the original release but was included as a bonus track on the 2003 re-release. 'Comfort (AKA Come Live With Me, Angel)' is just as sexy as the album cover. Smooth and sensual, the duet with Minnie Riperton is definitely grown folks music.

Soul Fixin'

Ignorance Is Contagious 
No, I haven't loss my mind. I've decided to talk about Soulja Boy Tell Em for one reason and one reason only. I'm not interested in his music. Nor am I interested in any news concerning his career as a rapper. However, I am concerned about his lack of intelligence and penchant towards ignorance. Ignorance is contagious. At a recent event in Atlanta, Toure, host of BET's 'Black Carpet', interviewed the young Mississippi native. Toure described the sad encounter on his blog The Daily Beast:

Last week in Atlanta, I got to interview Soulja Boy Tell Em. I found out just how young he really is. He was one of about ten rappers I interviewed in one day for my BET show, The Black Carpet. I decided it'd be fun to give all the rappers part of the Proust questionnaire. I thought it'd be a way to get beyond image and into who they really are. Most of the guys gave good, thoughtful, intelligent, sensitive answers. I asked Juelz Santana, "How would you like to die?" He said, "Loved."

Then came Soulja Boy Tell Em. I asked him, "What historical figure do you most hate?" He was stumped. I said, "Others have said Hitler, bin Laden, the slave masters..." He said, "Oh wait! Hold up! Shout out to the slave masters! Without them we'd still be in Africa."

My jaw, at this point, was on the ground."We wouldn't be here," he continued, having no idea how far in it he'd stepped, "to get this ice and tattoos."

Wow. Never mind that diamonds come from Africa. Never mind that there were many generations of pain in between leaving Africa and getting diamonds. Never mind that the long-term cataclysmic effects of subtracting about tens of millions of young, strong people from Africa over the course of a couple of centuries is a large part of the reason why Africa now appears so distasteful to you. Never mind all that, Soulja Boy. You put country first.

Wow. I strongly doubt the kid from Mississippi was joking. His music is just as ignorant. His first hit song, "Crank That (Soulja Boy)," described ejaculating on the back of a female and sticking a sheet to her. If your children are running around chanting "superman that ho'," you now know the meaning of the derogatory phrase. Soulja Boy isn't alone. Many of his peers possess the same amount of ignorance. The harrowing story of the black experience doesn't register with them. They are lacking vital information. They don't know who they are. They don't know what it means to be Black in America. I won't point blame at Soulja Boy Tell Em or the Mississippi school system. The blames lies fairly and squarely on his parents. It is imperative that black parents give their children a hefty dose of Martin, Malcolm, Marcus Garvey, James Baldwin, Frederick Douglass, and Harriet Tubman. Obviously, Soulja Boy's parents think the history of blacks in this country is far from important.
Now is the time for BET to step up and take action. The network and Soulja Boy Tell Em are good friends, his videos are in heavy rotation on the channel. BET needs to make it their mission to educate Soulja Boy and his peers, the networks' core audience. Original programming that tells the story of the black experience is needed on Black Entertainment Television. BET, here is a good idea: have Soulja Boy appear on '106 & Park' along with Cornel West or any other noted black professor, historian or civil rights activist. This great PR move will serve two purposes, it will educate Soulja boy and all his ignorant peers watching the show.

Soul Fixin'

VH1 Soul's New Show: 'Soul Cities'
VH1 Soul is premiering a brand new show, 'Soul Cities', a combination of music, travel, and nostalgia, on Tuesday, November 11 at 9PM. Hosted by award winning writer, filmmaker, and music critic Nelson George, 'Soul Cities' explores the American cities that gave birth to the genre of music known as soul by visiting the studios, churches, bars, radio stations, and restaurants that helped shape and define soul music. The series will also include interviews and performances by soul artists such as Babyface, Robin Thicke, Angie Stone, Raheem DeVaughn, and LaBelle. 'Soul Cities' will take viewers on a trip to Chicago, Los Angeles, Memphis, New Orleans, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Oakland.

Soul Fixin'

Raphael Saadiq...Need I Say More?

Raphael Saadiq can do no wrong in my eyes. The Oakland cat is revered around these parts. His latest album, The Way I See It, is a work of art. If you don't own the album, what are you waiting for? I came across the video above, which is brought to you by ItsLikeButtaBaby.com. Decked out in a yellow suit, Raphael Saadiq performs a medley of "(Lay Your Head On My) Pillow," "It Never Rains (In Southern California)," & "Anniversary." The crowd was loving every bit of it. I hope you enjoy it as much as they did.

Soul Fixin'

Classic Soul Courtesy of Joy, Tweet, Bilal & Dwele

I came across the video below over at Brown Sugar. I love Joy Denalane with a passion so I was quite excited to hear her take on James Brown 'It's a Man's Man's Man's World.' After a little investigation I discovered the concert was recorded on wax earlier this year in Germany. Joy, Tweet, Bilal, and Dwele joined The Dresden Soul Symphony for a soulful walk down memory lane. The group performed a bevy of soul classics marinated in the sounds of classical music. The combination of soul and classical music may not sound good but the two genres form the perfect combination. Remakes of 'Let's Stay Together,' 'I'll Take You There,' 'Love Train,' A Song For You,' 'Midnight Train To Georgia' and other 60's & 70's soul chart toppers are included on the album. The DVD will be available Nov 11.

Video Soul

"if your mind could really see
you'd know your color is the same as me
pardon me brother as you stand in your glory
I know you won't mind if I tell the whole story
get yourself together, learn to know your sign
shall we commit genocide before we check out our mind
I know we've all got problems that's why I'm here to say
keep peace with me and I with you
let me love in my own way
now I know we got great respect for the sister and mother
it's even better yet
but there's the joker in the street loving one brother and killing the other
when the time comes and we are really free
there'll be no brothers left you see....."

Soul Fixin'

A Jackson 5 Reunion...Say What???You can file this in the I'll believe it when I see it files. According to Jermaine 'Jeri-Curl Juice' Jackson, he and his famous brothers are currently recording and planning a Jackson 5 reunion tour set for '09. You aren't the only one who is skeptical, my side eye is in full effect. In an interview with the Australian Associated Press, Jermaine stated “It is going to be more like a family affair, Janet's going to open and, of course, the original Jackson 5 ... Michael, Randy and the whole family ... We're in the studio, we're planning on being out there next year… This has been a long time coming for the Jackson family to get back together."  I can't imagine going to a concert to bare witness to a handful of men in their 50's prancing around stage singing hit songs such as “ABC,” “I’ll Be There” and “I Want You Back.”

Soul Fixin'

Seal's Ode To Obama
Seal can now be added to the very long list of artists supporting Barack Obama. Seal's endorsement comes via his latest music video for his remake of Sam Cooke's epic 'A Change Is Gonna Come.' A fitting song for a candidate that is promising a change. The emotional display of support features various clips of Obama campaign speeches and images and clips that touch on various social issues that plague the world and our country. By the way, Seal does a pretty damn good job covering the 44 year old soul classic. His upcoming album, Soul, will feature Seal's take on a slew of soul gems including Harold Melvin & The Blue Note's 'If You Don't Know Me By Now', Al Green's "Here I Am (Come And Take Me) " and Ann Peebles "I Can't Stand The Rain." Soul  hits stores in few weeks, November 11 to be exact. In the meantime, enjoy this ode to Barack. Barack > McCain. Barack The Vote on November 4.

Soul Fixin'

Much Ado About Diddy???
Has Diddy crossed the line? Many seem to think so. The rapper/entrepreneur/music exec is featured on the cover of the latest issue of L’Uomo Vogue. The photo above is featured inside the fashion magazine. As we can all see, Diddy's twin daughters are naked. On a BLACKVOICES board, members expressed their outrage. One member stated, "This negro here just proves that some people will pimp out any and everybody to stay in the headlines. This is just TASTELESS!." Another member expressed her disgust, "Personally, I don't think babies should ever be photographed naked. UNLESS it's going to be kept in a family album. But a PUBLISHED photo for all to see is just wrong." What are your thoughts?  Is it mere art or is it a low down attempt to garner publicity? Speak on it. On a much lighter note, Diddy's latest video blog features him and the twins encouraging Americans to Barack the Vote. Check out the cute clip below.

Video Soul

"and I'd give anything
and everything
to fall in love
just this one time
I'd like to find
what I've been dreaming of"

Soul Fixin'

Album Push Backs: Jay & Common
Common and Jay-Z now have something in common, each of their upcoming projects have been pushed back. Hip hop fans were expecting Common's eight studio album to drop during the summer, but it got pushed back for a November release. Now, the album, Universal Mind Control, is due to hit stores December 9, the same day 50 drops his album. Can we expect a battle between 50 and Common? If Common comes out victorious, does that mean people have finally come to their senses? Word on the street is that Jay-Z's last album for Def Jam, The Blueprint 3, won't be released until early '09. The album was scheduled to drop December 2, 2 days before Hov's 39th birthday. The rapper/husband/entrepreneur/music exec is obviously a very busy man, Jay has yet to release a video for his first single, “ Jockin Jay-Z (Dope Boy Fresh).” Whatever the case my be, I'm looking forward to getting my hands on the album and don't mind waiting a little longer for a classic Jay album.

Soul Fixin'

'Cadillac Records'In case you are clueless, the picture above is from the upcoming film 'Cadillac Records.' Yes, that fine high yellow woman is Beyonce. She portrays living legend Etta James in the film. Many, including myself, feel that a Jill Scott may have been a better pick. Regardless, I hope Bey pulls it off. Believe it or not, there is a bit of Oscar buzz surrounding Bey's portrayal of Etta. Back to the film. 'Cadillac Records' is the story of the rise and fall of famed label Chess Records. To tell the story of Chess is to tell the story of sex, drugs, violence, race, and rock 'n' roll in 1950's Chicago and those who lived it, Muddy Waters, Leonard Chess, Etta James, Little Walter and Howlin' Wolf and Elvis Presley--to name a few. MC and actor Mos Def stars in the film as rock 'n' roll pioneer Chuck Berry. The film hits theaters December 5. Check out the preview below.

Soul Fixin'

Raheem & Ledisi Host BETJ Show
The popular BETJ show 'Lyrics Cafe' is returning to television Friday night with hosts Raheem DeVaughn and my girl Ledisi. 'Lyrics Cafe' is an half hour program that includes performances by spoken word artists and soul singers. Chrisette Michele is expected to stop by the cafe this season. BET has yet to reveal the other performers that will be featured on the show. You won't find real music on BET, so tune into BETJ for great original programming and 'Lyrics Cafe.'

Video Soul

"maybe I deserve
for you to go out and find some other guy
maybe I deserve
for you to stay out with him all night
maybe I deserve
for you to do all the things I did to you..."

Soul Fixin'

Martha Stewart Brings L Boogie Out
We, the fans, may never be able to bring Lauryn Hill out of hiding but it seems that Martha Stewart, of all people, was able to do the impossible. L Boogie and four of her five children were spotted at a Williams Sonoma store in New Jersey. Martha Stewart was in the store signing copies of her latest book, it isn't known if the Hill-Marley clan was in the store to see Martha or just happened to be picking up a few things for the kitchen. Either way, Lauryn doesn't look too happy, she didn't even bother to crack a fake smile. On the other hand, her children seem to be very happy. In August, Rohan Marley, the father of her children, told People Magazine that L Boogie was still under contract with Columbia Records and "is always composing songs. She writes music in the bathroom, on toilet paper, on walls. She writes it in the mirror if the mirror smokes up. She writes constantly." I'm not sure if Rohan was trying to tell us Lauryn is working on a new album but the thought of a new Lauryn Hill album seems far fetched. What are your thoughts? Can Lauryn make a comeback?

Soul Fixin'

Aretha's 'Touch My Body'

In a mere three days 52,907 people have witnessed Aretha Franklin singing Mariah Carey's 'Touch My Body' thanks to a highly entertaining YouTube clip. The living legend covered the suggestive song at a recent concert in Washington D.C. After singing the lyrics “throw me on the floor/wrestle me around,” Aretha tells the audience, “as far as I’m concerned, what starts on the floor stays on the floor.”  Take a look at the Queen in action and let us know what you think.

Video Soul

"you gave me reasons to believe that we were always meant to be but now I see
you were wrong
you can't keep running back to me with all those baby baby pleases no more
no more..."

Soul Fixin'

A Few Words From The Queen
Tonight, Aretha Franklin is bringing a lifetime worth of soul music to Washington D.C's Constitution Hall. Aretha recorded her first album in 1956. In the years that have followed Aretha has released an astounding 39 albums. Her latest recording, This Christmas is available now, exclusively through Borders and Waldenbooks. Aretha's career has been marked by a slew of achievements, acclaim, and milestones. Sister ReRe 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. Aretha has even made a few stops to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, in 1999, she was awarded The National Medal of Arts by President Clinton. Three years ago, President Bush awarded Aretha The Presidential Medal of Freedom. The list goes on. At the age of 66, retirement is the last thing on Aretha's mind. Limited to traveling by custom bus because of a fear of flying, Aretha still performs spot dates year round. She is no longer signed to a major label, Aretha has started her own record label, Aretha Records. The Queen of Soul is working on bringing her life to the big screen and stage. On the eve of her concert in the nation's capital, Aretha chatted with the Washington Post, where she spoke on everything from her war of words with Tina Turner to her upcoming album, Aretha: A Woman Falling Out Of Love.

On the collapsing of the record industry:

"I wouldn't say that. I'm certainly not privy to their numbers. What their gross income or anything like that is. So I wouldn't say that. And I wouldn't call close to a billion dollars a year falling apart. It might be a billion less, but I wouldn't call that falling apart. It's just that artists have become a lot more independent and aggressive in terms of their growth and distribution and control of their product."

On her 'war of words' with Tina Turner:

"Oh, there's no squabble. The people at USA Today just grossly exaggerated that I was fuming. That's ludicrous. I've always appreciated Ms. Turner and she just kind of overstepped herself and chose to speak on my ego when I really thought she was being more descriptive of herself. Mmm-hmm. Particularly in view of the fact that she doesn't even know me."

On her career had she signed to Motown:

"Many of my friends were there at Motown. The studio was only a few blocks from where my dad's home was, where we lived. So I would just go over to the studio to see who was recording, just to say hello, maybe to Smokey or Mary Wells, or someone who I was friends with. But I'm glad that my career took the path that it did. As I understood it they had to get special permission to be paid. I'm not really sure what it was, but in my instance, coming up, I was able to handle my own money and I didn't have to ask anyone for anything. And those artists, I believe, did. They had to go through a process to get a check written. Certainly Motown presented their artists in a first class way. They did have some of the things that the other labels didn't have, which were the grooming schools where they had to sit and take different classes in knowing how to speak to the press and so on. So they had some very good things on their label that other labels didn't have. But then other labels had further reaching distribution, internationally, than Motown did. There was a different respect to begin with, in the industry, between a Columbia Records and Motown. Later on, Motown became the industry giant that it did."

On her early years at Columbia Records:

"Columbia was a wonderful label for me. Wonderful. The records I made there garnered me an audience. I won a number of polls during the years that I was at Columbia. The Downbeat Jazz Poll. Leonard Feather, who was a huge critic back in the day, different polls that he had. The Playboy poll, a number of polls. So the music was great. Artistically, it was great music. But it wasn't commercial. That was the problem with Columbia. The producers weren't really commercial producers. Bob Murphy was one of the all-time great arrangers and he had some of the most beautiful arrangements I ever heard. Clyde Otis was excellent but they just didn't have that commercial flair. We had what you called turntable hits, meaning you were getting a lot of radio play but you weren't selling a lot of records."

On the thought of singing at at Barack Obama's inauguration if he were to be elected:

"Well, it's left to be seen. It's very, very close at this time and it seems to be ever-changing. But I would be so honored, if it happened to turn out that way, to be asked."

On what it means to be the Queen:

"It's not all about singing. Being the Queen is not all about singing and being a diva is not all about singing. It has much to do with your service to people. And your social contributions to your community and your civic contributions as well."

Video Soul

"and who can love you like me (nobody)
who can sex you like me (nobody)
who can treat you like me now, baby (nobody)
nobody, baby (nobody)..."

Soul Tracks

The photo above was taken back in 1999 at the Rhythm & Blues Foundations 10th Annual Pioneer Awards. Dionne Warwick presented her younger sister Dee Dee with the foundation's Pioneer Award. Dionne thanked the foundation for paying homage to the "real singer in our family." High praise indeed, considering that Whitney Houston and Cissy Houston are members of the family. On that cold winter night Dionne was right by her younger sister's side, and three days ago Dionne was at her sister's side as she made her transition. The two sisters have never been far apart, sharing a bond that all sisters should share. The two talented sisters started singing gospel together and would go on to be the most in demand session singers of the early 60's. Dionne would go on to enjoy a successful solo career. Dee Dee possessed a more soulful sound and made a name for herself during the era of soul music. A 1968 recording session resulted in 'Foolish Fool,' today's Soul Track selection. In a 2001 interview, Dee Dee reflected on the song "...I didn't like it. I kept thinking, what is he talking about with this song? I just got very creative and once I got into, I could relate. Because at that time, people were giving me their opinions about my personal life and I was, to hell with it, I'm with who I'm with and that's my business." 'Foolish Fool' ranks as one of soul music's most impassioned performances, Dee Dee let it be known that no foolish fool was gonna steal her man. The Grammy's took notice and 'Foolish Fool' was nominated for a Grammy. Since the mid-'70s, she has done backup vocals for Dionne Warwick, and recorded sporadically on her own. Upon receiving the Pioneer Award, Dee Dee proclaimed, "I promise I'll see better days." Dee Dee's better days have come, she is now beyond the reach of pain and suffering, relaxing in paradise.

Soul Fixin'

Would You Leave Mary or Musiq?
In case you missed the premiere last night, here is Musiq's latest video featuring Mary J. Blige. New York City serves as the backdrop for the simple yet effective video for 'If You Leave.' I assumed that Musiq & MJB would portray a couple on the rocks in the video but I was wrong. Musiq, rocking a Mohawk, and Mary are both experiencing the realities of a possible break-up with their significant others. As the video begins each singer spends a few quiet reflective moments in a diner before going to Central Park to meet up with their significant other to work things out. Mary, fed up with all the drama, leaves her man behind. Musiq and his lady are able to salvage their relationship and walk off hand in hand. Check the video out and let us know if you are feeling it.

Video Soul

"a room is a still a room, even when there's nothin' there but gloom
but a room is not a house and a house is not a home
when the two of us are far apart
and one of us has a broken heart..."

Soul Tracks

During a career that has spanned 50 years, Aretha Franklin has only recorded a handful of duets with the likes of Rev. James Cleveland, George Benson, Mary J. Blige, and Luther Vandross--to name a few. Back in '82 Aretha teamed up with her childhood buddies, The Four Tops, in their hometown of Detroit and recorded 'I Wanna Make It Up To You' for Aretha's Luther Vandross produced '82 release Jump To It. The recording was a Detroit affair through and through. Aretha and The Four Tops were joined by Aretha's sister Erma Franklin and famed background singers Sandra Feva and Margaret Branch, all Detroit natives. Aretha and Levi Stubbs took lead vocals while everyone else played the role of background singer. The chemistry between Aretha and Levi was undeniable. Aretha's voice was rich and alluring while Levi's voice never sounded smoother or more seductive. The sultry song reaches its' climax when Aretha and Levi trade words in a smoldering call and response. Aretha & crew and The Four Tops added a much needed touch of soul to the sound of the early 80's.

Soul Fixin'

New Musiq From Musiq
A new song from Musiq has hit the net. Actually, the song isn't new new. An unofficial version leaked a few months ago, the official version is now available for our listening pleasure. Believe me, you will not me disappointed. Even though Musiq disappointed us with his first single, 'Radio', the soul child is getting back on track. He smoothed things over with the Mary duet 'If You Leave' and now he is making amends with this track, the aptly titled, 'So Beautiful.' Give it a listen and let us know what you think. Don't forget to check out the premiere of Musiq & Mary's video for 'If You Leave' tonight at 7:30 on BET.

Soul Heaven

Dee Dee Warwick (1945-2008)
Dee Dee Warwick has joined fellow soul singer Levi Stubbs on the highway to heaven. Delia Mae Warrick passed away Saturday at a nursing home in her native New Jersey. She was 63. Known to the world as Dee Dee Warwick, Delia Mae began her singing career began in 1950's New Jersey, singing gospel with her sister Dionne and aunt Cissy. She was a member of The Gospelaires, The Drinkard Singers (a gospel outfit that featured some of Warwicks' aunts and uncles and was managed by their mother), and The Sweet Inspirations before embarking on a solo career. Along with Dionne, Cissy, Doris Troy, and The Sweet Inspirations, she was one of New York's most in-demand session vocalists, contributing to numerous records by the likes of the Drifters, Aretha Franklin, Chuck Jackson, Garnet Mimms, Nina Simone, and Wilson Pickett. Unfortunately, Dee Dee would remain in the shadows of her famous sister, recording for various labels and garnering sporadic hits and very little support from her labels. However, Dee Dee was able to reach the top of the charts with a few hit songs such as "I Want to Be With You," "Foolish Fool," "I'm Gonna Make You Love Me," and "She Didn't Know (She Kept On Talking)." Since the mid-'70s, she has done backup vocals for Dionne Warwick, and recorded sporadically on her own. More recently, she recorded "Family First" with sister Dionne, cousin Whitney, and aunt Cissy, for the soundtrack to the Tyler Perry movie Daddy's Little Girl. Earlier this year, Dee Dee joined her sister in Europe, providing background vocals for Dionne's one-woman autobiographical show, "My Music & Me," which played to sold-out crowds.

Video Soul

"I'm in love, sweet love
hear me calling out your name, I feel no shame
I'm in love, sweet love
don't you ever go away, it'll always be this way..."

Saturday Soul

Jeff Chang Shares His Thoughts On John McCain aka Johnny Mac [VIBE]
The 411 On Kanye's New Album [RollingStone]
Barack's Letter To VIBE [VIBE]
They Just Don't Make Music Like They Used To [SoulBounce]
Michelle Robinson Obama's Roots to South Carolina & Slavery [Washington Post]
Tribute To Levi Stubbs [Detroit Free Press]

Young, Gifted, Black And Dead!!!

Hundreds gathered on the south side of Chicago to say goodbye to 17 year old Kiyanna Salters. Her silver casket sat inside St. Sabina Catholic Church and she was dressed in royal purple, her head resting on a satin pillow. Salters was the innocent victim of senseless gunfire, a scenario that plays out far too often in communities of color. Kiyanna was remembered as an intelligent girl who was studying Japanese and planned on embarking on a career in the medical field. Speakers made mention of her love for fashion and Strawberry Shortcake and Hello Kitty dolls. Her mother, Kenya Jackson, warned the congregation "It's going to happen again...you all have to love your kids. Talk to them. ... hug these children." Her grandfather, Lester Salters, summed up the violence plaguing communities of colors, "we survived the chains and the ropes in the South. We're supposed to be free, but our own kids got us slaved up, in chains.''  Kiyanna's younger brother, Darien made a vow to finish school and become successful in honor of his slain sister. "I gotta pick up what she did. I gotta take her place," he said. "I promise I will."

Soul Fixin'

Joy Denalane & Lupe Fiasco Barack The Vote
Isn't it great to see so many hip hop and soul artists embracing and supporting Team Obama? The latest wave of support comes from German born soul singer Joy Denalane and rapper Lupe Fiasco. The duo collaborated on Joy's sophomore album, Born & Raised. The refreshing, soulful, and thought provoking duo traded verses on the track 'Change.' Joy and Lupe have teamed up again to create another video for 'Change.' The latest video includes clips of Obama speeches and rallies and addresses the things that matter in this election. Go Obama!

Soul Fixin'

The Greatest Living Rapper

The greatest rapper alive was spotted in The City of Angels Wednesday night. Jay-Z was in town to perform at the opening of The Palladium. Well, sorta. The Palladium shut its' door for a year for renovations and is now owned by concert promoter Live Nation. Many in attendance compared Hov's performance to his 2004 farewell concert at Madison Square Garden. In other words, Jay did his thing. The BK MC ran through hit songs such as 'Say Hello,' '99 Problems' and 'Can I Get A...' without forgetting a single lyric. You won't catch Jay slipping. Los Angeles City Council President Eric Garcetti described Jay as "the Frank Sinatra of this generation." Frank Sinatra played at the venue during opening week back in 1940. Hova told the crowd of 4,000 the "last person to open this thing was Frank Sinatra, I consider myself 'brown eyes,' baby.” Take a look at video footage from the sold out concert. When you are done watching Jay make history, peep the clip below, Jay drops some election day knowledge for Michigan voters and encourages us all to make history by voting for Obama. On another note, what the hell was Jay thinking when he decided to wear those glasses?

Soul Heaven

Levi Stubbs (1932-2008)
Recently, soul music has mourned the losses of Isaac Hayes and Motown producer Norman Whitfield. Now we mourn the loss of Levi Stubbs, one of the finest ambassadors of soul music. The lead singer of The Four Tops died this morning in his hometown of Detroit. He was 72. The group formed in 1954 and included Levi, Abdul 'Duke' Fakir, Renaldo 'Obie' Benson and Lawrence Payton. The groups' name was inspired by their desire to reach the 'top.' Without a doubt, they reached the top. Fakir is the only surviving member, Payton died in '97 and Benson passed away in '05. Levi has been described as a 'church-based soul shouter and pure singer' who could have enjoyed tremendous success as a solo act but the thought of leaving the group never crossed his mind. He understood the meaning of loyalty. 'It's The Same Old Song,' 'Bernadette,' 'Reach Out I'll Be There,' 'Standing In The Shadows Of Love,' 'Keeper of the Castle,' 'Ain't No Woman (Like the One I Got)'--and the list goes on. Thanks Levi.

Soul Fixin'

Keyshia Is Back With Reality Show 
The First Family of BET is back. Keyshia Cole, her mama Frankie, and big sister Neffie are returning to TV with the third season of 'The Way It Is.' The hit reality show is set to premiere in mid-November. BET isn't good for much but 'The Way It Is' is a stand out show. Wouldn't you agree? Personally, I can't wait to see what Frankie is up to. Season 3 features a summer and early fall update on the family. In addition to the reality show, you can expect a new album from Ms. Cole. A Different Me hits stores December 16.

Soul Fixin'

Musiq & MJB Wrap Up 'If You Leave' Video
It's a wrap. Musiq and MJB have finished filming the new video for 'If You Leave.' The duet appears on Musiq's upcoming studio set On My Radio. 'If You Leave' marks Musiq's return to the neo-soul sound, a sound he abandoned on his first single 'Radio'. The video premieres Monday night at 7:30 on BET. The network released a teaser video, check it out below. From the looks of it, this video will be sure to please. On My Radio drops December 9. The soul singer is also working on a Christmas album, A Philly Soul Christmas, available exclusively at Target. This album is expected to hit Target stores across the country this fall.

Video Soul

"I'm gonna whip it up
whip it up nice and slow
you can even call your in order
I'll deliver to your home
and I'll be there in a matter of seconds
and there's more if you want seconds
you can be greedy as you like
morning, noon and night..."

Soul Fixin'

Just Trying To Stay 'Cool'
Anthony Hamilton was gone for a minute but he has made a soulful return with the release of his latest single and video for 'Cool.' Anthony Hamilton is definitely cool throughout the video, even in the face of every day struggles. David Banner's rap is far from cool, the song would be much better without it. Sorry David. Needless to say, the video has a great feel good Southern vibe to it. I feel like taking a trip down south after watching the video. The Point Of It All, Hamilton's upcoming release, drops on December 2. AH describes the sound on his upcoming set as feel good music, "I've taken fans to church and baptized them; there are those who say I've healed them with my music. Now we're going to boogie in the name of the Lord." In the meantime, the soul singer is taking his show on the road, making stops in NYC, Baltimore, Cleveland and Houston. Check out the video and full tour schedule below.

11.5.08    Chicago    House of Blues
11.7.08    Cleveland  House of Blues
11.13.08  Washington, DC  Lincoln Theater
11.14.08  Philadelphia  Electric Factory
11.15.08  Baltimore  Rams Head Live
11.19.08  New York  Blender Theater
11.22.08  Raleigh  Lincoln Theater
12.04.08  New Orleans  House of Blues
12.05.08  Dallas  House of Blues
12.07.08  Houston  House of Blues
12.11.08  Anaheim  House of Blues

Soul Fixin'

Barack The Vote
My Presidential pick, Barack Obama, graces the cover of the latest issue of Rolling Stone, marking the third time Barack has appeared on the cover. Rolling Stone is definitely barackin' the vote. Barack talks about McCain's ugly campaign, his 'solemn vow to the young people of America,' what he's learned from Bill Clinton and how George Bush f*cked up. Thanks to Bush many of us are pinching our pennies and can't afford to buy a copy of Rolling Stone, the article, 'Obama's Moment' is available online.

Video Soul

"is this just a silly game
that forces you to act this way
forces you to scream my name
then pretend that you can't stay..."

Saturday Soul

A First Hand Account of Maxwell's Return To NYC [VIBE]
Alaskan Blacks Speak Out On Palin [Chicago Defender]
The Fight Continues...Aretha Responds To Tina Turner [USA Today]
Introducing Leigh Jones & Taiwah [Songs In The Key of Life]
Young, Black, and Republican...Say What? [Hip Hop Republican]
John Legend & Brandy Create New Music Together [SoulBounce]
50 Cent's Directorial Debut...Oh Lawd!!! [Rolling Stone]
Rolling Stone Delivers The Truth About Sarah Palin [Rolling Stone]
Al Green Performing 'Good Times on Soul Train...Classic Sh*t [YouTube]
Maxwell Returns to NYC [YouTube]

Young, Gifted, Black And Dead!!!

Public Soul Announcement's series of Young, Gifted, Black and Dead!!! posts came to an end because finding articles on the deaths of young African Americans proved to be difficult and time consuming. However, I came across the story of Chicago teenager Kiyanna Salters last night. On October 5, Kiyanna boarded a CTA bus headed home after spending the day caring for a sick aunt. It is quite possible that while 17 year old Kiyanna rode the bus, with her cousin Jasmine Wilcox, she thought of her fellow classmate, Blair Holt, who was killed on a CTA bus 18 months prior. I'm sure she never thought she would meet the same fate. I'm sure she never thought a petty quarrel would turn violent, shots would be fired, and a bullet would hit her in the head. I'm sure she never thought her life would come to an end on a city bus. Unfortunately, it did. Kiyanna Salters died 30 minutes after being the innocent victim of senseless gunfire. Another sad example of black on black crime. According to the Chicago Tribune, at one point during the bus ride a young black male got on the bus and accidentally touched an older man's hand. Words were exchanged and both men then flashed guns at each other before the younger male got off the bus. As the doors of the bus began to close, the young male fired a round of shots at the bus. Kiyanna, an aspiring doctor with a flair for fashion, was the only person shot. Her aunt remembered her as a good kid, “If you’ve got a good child and you know they’re not doing anything wrong, you don’t too much worrying about them because you know God’s got them,’’ she said, tears streaming her face. “I guess it was her time to go. He just needed her. He needed her.’’A surveillance video inside the bus captured footage of the alleged suspect. The mother of the alleged suspect, Milton Wardlow, pleaded with her son to turn himself in after she saw the video on the news. Wardlow surrendered to authorities and has been charged with murder and ordered held without bail.

Soul Tracks

While I was diggin' through the crates I came across D'Angelo's sophomore set, 2000's Voodoo, considered by many to be his magnum opus. I've still got plenty of love for the man even though he has been away for so long. Actually, he has been away for too damn long!!! But anyway, he is currently signed to J Records and word on the street is that we can expect a new album to drop early next year. I'm sure your lost-soul-singers side eye is in full effect right now because rumors of a new D'Angelo album have been floating around for a handful of years but if Maxwell can make a comeback so can D'Angelo. Let's keep our fingers crossed. Voodoo came to us five years after his brilliant debut Brown Sugar, it was well worth the wait. The recording sessions all took place at Electric Lady Studios, the Greenwich Village-based studio built by Jimi Hendrix. ?uestlove, J Dilla, Lauryn Hill, DJ Premier, Q-Tip, Roy Hargrove, Angie Stone, and Raphael Saadiq all contributed to the soulfully funky and organic sound that can be heard on Voodoo. ?uestlove described the recording sessions as a "left-of-center black music renaissance," frequent visits to the studio were made by artists such as Erykah Badu, Talib Kweli, Common, Mos Def and The Roots band, visits that shaped and influenced the recording atmosphere of the Voodoo sessions. D'Angelo and Angie Stone co-wrote the song 'Send It On,' a song that explores faith and honesty in a relationship. The arrangements are reminiscent of classic 70's soul. It has an Aretha/Marvin/Al Green feel to it. It's one of those songs that forces you to make that ugly face and shake your head because it sounds so damn good. While we wait, hope, and pray for some new D'Angelo music, enjoy this 8 year old classic.

Soul Fixin'

Diddy Is Scared of Sarah Palin
It seems like everyone in the worlds of  hip hop and soul music are throwing their support behind Barack Obama. I can't blame 'em. Beyonce has been caught barackin' an Obama tee, soul vets Aretha and Stevie have voiced their undying support for Obama, and Common, Talib Kweli, Nas, will.i.am, Big Boi and Mary J. Blige --to name a few, have all crafted songs expressing their support for Team Obama. Sean 'Diddy' Combs has expressed his support for change in a different way. The music mogul advocates for Obama in his latest viral blog by denouncing Sarah Palin. The video is quite hilarious, Diddy comes to us from under the covers and announces his monsters-under-the-bed like fear of Sarah Palin and begs us to vote on November 4.

Soul Fixin'

Common Teams Up With Microsoft
Common is following in the footsteps of fellow rappers Jay-Z and 50 Cent by partnering with a major corporation.  In what seems like a cool partnership, Common has joined forces with Mircosoft. The duo hasn't wasted any time builiding a beneficial branding partnership, Microsoft is sponsoring Common's current tour with N.E.R.D and backstage footage from a gig in Seattle is being used for a new artist video-podcast series called 'The Green Room' available exclusively on Zune's newly revamped desktop software. The team of Common and Microsoft are also venturing into fashion, a T-shirt line is in the works, the Common designed tees will hit stores next month. Microsoft's Zune made a brief cameo in Common's latest music video. Common revealed his motivation for joining forces with Microsoft in an Q&A with Ad Age, "I know that Microsoft has been around for 20 years, they established themselves in the mid-80s and since then they've progressed. Microsoft is classy, it's a timeless brand, and it means something to the world, internationally, and I felt like that's the direction of what I want Common to be, to be honest."

Common's upcoming album, Universal Mind Control, will hit stores November 11. Check out his latest video, 'Universal Mind Control', featuring Pharrell.