Phony Ppl just dropped their newest video for "Statues" off their EP nothinG Special. The young crew are a hip-hop collective from Brooklyn, NY, on tour now with Erykah Badu and The Roots. Check the vid above, where they thrive in their stomping grounds off Nostrand Ave, and lead you to their symphonic show. -GB
NEW MUSIC: JADEN SMITH FEAT. KID CUDI, "HIGHER UP"
Jaden Smith is back once again with an answer to his critics, "Higher Up." Kid Cudi graces the track with the chorus as Jaden raps about being fly (recurring), yet misunderstood and ignored. Not sure where exactly this kid does not fit in, but that's a common superstar denominator. MSFT republic--feel free to pledge allegiance.--GB
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN BONUS!
BONUS: Ariana Grande and Larry Lovestein (Mac Miller)--"Baby It's Cold Outside"- not bad for a rapper, Mac. Or Larry...
What a doozy.
What a doozy.
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #1
1) Stevie Wonder-"One Little Christmas Tree"--had to end with the king...
Merry Christmas And Happy Holidays From Girl Blue Sees The Light!
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #2
2) Zendee Rose Tenerefe (Philippines)-"Christmas All Over The World"--Broadway, watch out!
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #3
3) The Saturdays (UK)-"I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday"--but then, what would Christmas be? Hmmm...
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #4
4) Pedro Capó (Puerto Rico)- "Navidad sin ti"-- Fill in the blank: "Navidad sin ti es...."
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #5
5) Ricki-Lee Coulter (Australia)-"Oh Holy Night"--girl can belt.
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #7
7) Mateo--"Xmas Time (Let It Snow)--More Mateo in your ear, spreading holiday cheer. This year.
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #8
8) Louis Armstrong--"Christmas In New Orleans"- oldie but goodie.
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #9
9) Leon Thomas III and Vali-"Palm Trees Or Mistletoe"--the winter gear is just for effect.
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #10
10) New Edition- "It's Christmas All Over The World"-- throwback.
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #11
11) Lauriana Mae, Grayson Sanders, and Jono, "Something In The Air"--this explains the Coke in the stocking.
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #12
12) Jawan Harris, "By The Tree"-- Santa, grant his wish, or no cookies for you.
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #13
13) Mariah Carey, Jimmy Fallon and The Roots, "All I Want For Christmas Is You"--no one does it better though...
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #14
14) Superstar K3 Top 11 (South Korea)- "A Gift For You"--group hug.
MIXTAPE: LUKE JAMES, "WHISPERS IN THE DARK"
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #15
15) Lloyd- "She's All I Want For Christmas"-- because once he got his two front teeth, he went on to request bigger things.
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #16
16) Mateo- "This Xmas (Be My Baby)"-- ah, the winter cuff.
Propers--ThinkTank
NEW VIDEO: LUKE JAMES, "MAKE LOVE TO ME"
Luke James has had an awesome 2012, and can cap off a great year of progress with a Grammy Nomination for "Best R&B Performance" for "I Want You." To end the year with a bang--why not drop another sensual song for the ladies? This one's called "Make Love To Me," and Luke describes his initial aspirations for the clip as told to ESSENCE.com, "I want people to catch the party feeling; make it a fellowship of spiritual sensuality in the act of dance."
Directed by Frank Gaston, the clip features Stacy Barthe, Terry Ellis (En Vogue), Omari Hardwick, and Kelly Rowland. Watch above.
Propers-Singersroom
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #17
17) Lissie- "2000 Miles (Pretenders Cover)"--captures that spirit of the holidays.
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #18
18) Karmin (& Coach)-"Sleigh Ride"--lol, "clogging my snuff," "ov," "candy cane crunchin'"...the Karmin language.
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #19
19)Dragonette (Canada)-"Merry Xmas (Says Your Text Message)"--Ouch. (sincerely, the bird that has been flipped, over, and over again).
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #20
20) Dionne Bromfield (UK)--"I Saw Mummy Kissing Santa Claus"-- on a side note, she hadn't seen dad in a while...
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #21
21) Alphabeat (Denmark)-"X-mas (Let's Do It Again)"--Let's sing this in ugly Christmas sweaters.
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #22
22) Robin Thicke-"Merry Christmas Baby"--molten blue eyed soul to thaw out the fingers to the toes.
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #23
23) Miss Karun, Camp Mulla (Kenya)-"O Holy Night"--placidly sweet.
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #24
24) Ariana Grande-"All I Want For Christmas Is You"- Tea, honey, and lemon to the max.
GB HOLIDAY SONG BASH 2.0 COUNTDOWN #25
It's that time of year again! The Holiday Season! And GB has a present for you. Whether you are fully engrossed/doing the most this holiday, or you're a Scrooge, or somewhere in between, here's something that can put all of ya's in even brighter spirits!
GBSTL's Holiday Playlist!!
What fun would it be to have the soundtrack of the holidays be the boring old, "Let it Snow" or a horrible rendition of "12 Days Of Christmas (runs on 'A paaarrrrtttrrriddgee in a pear tree')?" Oh no. What if these holiday songs were actually, boom-worthy? (Oh yeah!)
Here is a countdown made especially for the eclectic. One fourth of each vintage, world, hipster, and hot. These are holiday songs from some of your favorite artists, and some of your faves from this blog. It's GB's part in shaking up the holidays. This is the "Holiday Song Bash 2.0 Countdown"...aka the sub-woofer holiday list. Let's start with a car-blaster.
GBSTL's Holiday Playlist!!
What fun would it be to have the soundtrack of the holidays be the boring old, "Let it Snow" or a horrible rendition of "12 Days Of Christmas (runs on 'A paaarrrrtttrrriddgee in a pear tree')?" Oh no. What if these holiday songs were actually, boom-worthy? (Oh yeah!)
Here is a countdown made especially for the eclectic. One fourth of each vintage, world, hipster, and hot. These are holiday songs from some of your favorite artists, and some of your faves from this blog. It's GB's part in shaking up the holidays. This is the "Holiday Song Bash 2.0 Countdown"...aka the sub-woofer holiday list. Let's start with a car-blaster.
25) CeeLo Green- "Run Rudolph Run"-- Rudolph=Funkster.
VIDEO: AARADHNA, "LORENA BOBBITT"
Fresh off the presses from a Gold Certification in NZ for "Wake Up" on Treble & Reverb, Aaradhna produces her popular second video "Lorena Bobbitt" as a true anthem to all the ladies who may have been in this compromising position. A strictly vicarious video indeed. --GB
NEW VIDEO: BAD RABBITS, "WE CAN ROLL"
You may have heard of em'...some punk R&B type hybrid from Boston Mass; a band who performed at this years Afro-Punk Festival. It's Bad Rabbits out with a video for their new one, "We Can Roll," a new single from American Love, slated for 2013. And if it's jamming, roll with it; if it leans, rock with it (....uh...and if rolling is wrong, do you even want to be right...[etc]?). --GB
NEW SONG: ASTRO, "METHODS"
Astro further elaborates on what is a dope MC on "Methods," a track off his forthcoming mixtape, Dead Beats, Lazy Lyrics. The track was produced by Astro. Someone's coming for that throne!
PREVIEW: SOLANGE "TRUE"
Solange is all set to follow up the hype of "Losing You" with the drop her EP, TRUE. In anticipation of her release, a partnership between her and Devonté Hynes of Blood Orange, a preview has hit the net for fans of the eclectic songstress. Listen to bits of the 7 tracks below.
TRUE is set for release on November 27.
Tracklisting:
1) Losing You
2) Some Things Never Seem to Fucking Work
3) Locked in Closets
4) Lovers in the Parking Lot
5) Don't Let Me Down
6) Look Good With Trouble
7) Bad Girls (Verdine Version)
LISTEN TO AARADHNA'S "TREBLE & REVERB" NOW
New Zealand based singer Aaradhna's album release for Treble & Reverb is quickly approaching, and The New Zealand Herald is ready with the onset, providing a full album stream until the end of the week. Get ready to take a trip back to the land of doo-wop, with this lovely songstress' most revealing release as a soothing serenade.
Take a listen, and also be sure to let GB know what you think below!
Aaradhna's album Treble & Reverb drops Friday, November 9. Buy it here.
VIDEO: JANELLE MONÁE IS A BLACK GIRL AND SHE ROCKS...
Janelle Monáe's acceptance speech was short and sweet yet poignant at this years Black Girls Rock taping, which aired last night on BET. In being unapologetic for who she was, and embracing all parts of herself, including her previous work as a maid, she can further serve the fans she reaches through her work in music.
Janelle Monáe, you rock!
KIRBY LAURYEN GETS SIGNED TO A PUBLISHING DEAL WITH ROC NATION!
It's been a long road for Kirby Lauryen, one with the ups and downs of the consistency, persistence, and dedication it takes to write, arrange and perform a song a day for almost 300 days straight. It was not long after around 272 that she flew over to LA and annouced she had some special news so...drumroll please...
!!!Congrats to Kirby Lauryen, the newest Roc Nation signee!!!
Watch her tear up over the news that she'll be a songwriter for the label and re-perform her first ever "Song-A-Day" tune, "Til' The Angels Cry."
So, uh, now's a good time to get familiar...--GB
VIDEO- BASTILLE & JAY BROWN, "THINK ABOUT THAT"
Jay Brown is wrapping up her tour with Bastille and Swiss Lips in the UK, but stopped by her blog to give her ever growing fanbase a listen into what she's been up to in the studio. This duet with her and featuring Dan Smith from Bastille is called "Think About That."
Jay Brown's got that gritty raspy voice, a Tracy Chapman pensive air, and a simple guitar melody that can capture without intense production effects. And she's just getting started!
A free download to her song "Video" is available on her Facebook page.
VIDEO: LAURIANA MAE'S "LIKE A DRUM (BEAT IT)" FEATURED ON DWTS SEASON 15!
NEW MUSIC: ALPHABEAT, "LOVE SEA: THE REMIX EP"
Take a listen to Alphabeat's numerous remixes of "Love Sea." Dance around to the cornucopia of choices spun up by Kastra, Urbanus, Azure Blue and more. How do you like your "Love Sea?" Yeah, they have that.--GB
VIDEO: REBECCA FERGUSON, "TEACH ME HOW TO BE LOVED"
These heavily-sultry slow sounds are owned by Rebecca Ferguson, whose single for "Teach Me How To Be Loved" can be found on her deluxe album for Heaven, out now.
NEW SONG: AARADHNA "I'M NOT THE SAME"
NEW VIDEO: SOLANGE, "LOSING YOU"
Solange outdid herself with her premiere video for "Losing You," part of a two song drop that digitally hits online outlets today. The funky hawk inspired jam, shot in South Africa, basically consists of four things: amazing writing from Solange and Devonté Hynes, bananas production from Blood Orange, fun direction from Melina Matsoukas, and prints on prints on prints! It's a fashionable video to a fashionable song, and you can check it out after the jump.
PREVIEW: TASTE OF V V BROWN'S NEXT ALBUM
It's been about a year since we heard last musically from V V Brown. She was all set to drop Lollipops & Politics last winter and right before release, delayed the album because she wasn't 100% happy with it. Thus she led herself back into the studio to shake things up a little bit and change up some songs.
Here's a preview of what she came up with. Although for her previous expected drop she used pop beats to describe intense topics, in this preview, it seems that she's taken an a little more bass & beat heavy turn. Either way, it sounds good!
GBSTL has got you covered with V V Brown, and is giving away her last drops: signed mixtape and "Children" vinyl upon reaching 100 Facebook likes. So if you love this, like this-- on Facebook, won't you?
Stay tuned for release deets on V V Brown.
NEW SONG: J. COLE & MAJOR LAZER, "GET FREE COLEWORLD"
Here's a new one from J. Cole and Major Lazer, produced by Diplo, called "Get Free ColeWorld," a remix to Lazer's "Get Free." Proverbial PSA at the end gives listeners the go to tell these rappers to step their game up, if needed. --GB
PREVIEW: DIANE BIRCH "WALK THE RAINBOW TO THE END"
Stay tuned.--GB
VIDEO: REBECCA FERGUSON "BACKTRACK"
Rebecca Ferguson won't take that crap! Well, that's what she shows us in her "Backtrack" video, where she takes a stand against her relationship woes. The single to the song will be out digitally on October 14, and she's preparing for a deluxe re-release of her album Heaven on October 15. It will include covers by Drake ("Take Care") and Aqualung ("Strange And Beautiful"), among others.
Glad this video finally hit the US. *Happy Feet*
PREVIEW: SOLANGE, "LOSING YOU"
Singer, blogger, and all-around fashionista Solange Knowles has dropped a preview for her latest two-track digital drop. The tracks, "Losing You" and "Sleep In The Park," are set to hit computer screens on October 2, and both will be released in vinyl (12") on November 6. "Losing You," was created by her and Devonté Hynes of Blood Orange.
What do you think is the meaning of this clip? Hmm, maybe her picture of the cast of her video could give you a hint. --GB
NEW VIDEO: ALPHABEAT, "LOVE SEA"
This is Alphabeat's new one for their video entitled "Love Sea." Real people, real love, and real seas are in this video (just a warning).
Alphabeat's new album, entitled EXPRESS NON-STOP is slated for a release of September 24.
NEW VIDEO: TABI BONNEY, "HIGH SCHOOL JAM"
High School --ahhhhh...the awkward, fun time in which we try to figure ourselves out but still live it up whenever the chance presents itself. Tabi Bonney has his take on it. It's called "High School Jam" and it features Tabi's visuals for his somewhat "teenage" clique. It's full of high-fives, juice packets, and a deal-breaker that...well, let him tell the story.
Find the video after the jump.
NEW SONG: K-OS, "THE DOG IS MINE"
After announcing a deal with PETA to coolify his website, K-os drops "The Dog Is Mine," a track that's not about wearing fur. Raise your hand if K-os is man's best friend for this one.--GB
Propers-Complex
STEPH JONES SPEAKS OUT TO VIBE VIXEN: WHERE DID HE GO?
Steph Jones' story hits home for so many reasons. In addition to GBSTL covering the best in up-and-coming, world, and underground talent, and understanding the "follow your dreams" struggle, Steph was the very first interview on this blog. He was a rising superstar from Missouri City, Texas; a model, singer, and actress.
For the last year, we haven't heard much from Steph in those areas. His last offering was a four song preview and his Taxman movie in which he co-starred with Vanessa Simmons. What we have heard of, however, is his new passion for Herbalife--his dramatic weight loss, and his plugs for the brand.
So what happened? Well, Steph tells Vibe Vixen that the "superstar life" wasn't what it seemed.
“I was living from check to check sometimes my phone had to get cut
off . Sometimes I had to decide between putting gas in my car or food in
my mouth.Years passed and I would make money here and there but just
enough to get by. Eventually the bills were piling up and I had no money
coming in. The lease was up on my apartment so I started staying at
different friends houses. Then I felt like I was wearing out my welcome.
Then I was like, I got my car."
Girlfriend at the time Jordin Sparks, nor his mom, knew. And while he was living out of his Jeep, he gained 30 pounds. That was until one day changed his life forever.
“August 15th, 2011 at 3:47 am, I was at the post office outside
of my PO box. I spoke to God like I’ve never spoken to him. Tears ran
out of my body to where my body was cold and I said I had had enough. I
wanna be around nothing but positive people but the industry is not a
positive environment. There are positive people in it, but its a very
cold place. A lot of my friends who are platinum selling artists hate there lives. I
wanna be healthy and wanna make money but want the money to represent
something that I believe in. Everything I asked for made its way into my
life a week and a half later.”
Being approached by an Herbalife member to join a large group class, he was skeptical, but then realized that was the answer he was looking for.
A flashback of two weeks prior had come back and I was like… wait a sec. This is what I asked for and its happening! I wanted every dollar that I make to come from something I believe in. You mean I can make money with Herbalife, get healthy and be around a bunch of positive people? This is literally every single thing that I asked for."
After dropping his body fat by 10.3%, he now coaches others to reach their potential, but reminds his fans he hasn't quit music.
A flashback of two weeks prior had come back and I was like… wait a sec. This is what I asked for and its happening! I wanted every dollar that I make to come from something I believe in. You mean I can make money with Herbalife, get healthy and be around a bunch of positive people? This is literally every single thing that I asked for."
After dropping his body fat by 10.3%, he now coaches others to reach their potential, but reminds his fans he hasn't quit music.
“I did not quit music. I will write and sing in the comforts of my
own home until I can build financial freedom where I can do it my way
and I don’t have to conform to anybody else’s ideas. When I come back,
I‘ll come back on my own terms. Now I have a place to live and I don’t
have to sleep in my jeep anymore. I have financial freedom now and that
represents fulfillment and happiness. People don’t realize this is what I’ve always wanted to do; help people and change lives.”
NEW SONG: AARADHNA, "CAN WE GO BACK"
Aaradhna drops her second single off Treble & Reverb (slated for November) called "Can We Go Back," a remniscent song of good days long gone. It is a free download off of Soundcloud. Schweet!
Yearn to re-live the past? Play this song once, then, play it over and over again. --GB
Propers: Soundcloud
VIDEO: ARIANA GRANDE: EMOTIONS (MARIAH CAREY COVER)
Anyone confused as to if Ariana Grande can sing her arse off needs to check out this video. The Nickelodeon star has just set herself apart with a Mariah Carey cover of "Emotions." Yup, she hit a high note. More like all of them.
And while we can't believe our ears, the only wish left is for her to sing it live, so we know it's real.
Ariana is cooking up something sweet for her debut on Universal Republic records.--GB
NEW SONG: STALLEY, "LAST DAY ON THE MT"
Here's a new one from Stalley, off Maybach Music Group. It's called "Last Day on the MT," and it features Rashad. Produced by Cardo.
I like this cat.
Propers: Soundcloud, Stalley Official
Afro-Punk: Two Days In Photos
Afro-Punk proved this year that it was an event not to be missed by any means! Each and every performer did it big, each and every skater skated (and sometimes hit the pavement face first) hard; the bikers flew high on wheels, and the fashion was off the chain! There was so many things going on that there was a rush to get from one stage to another!
Representing "the other Black experience--" those who don't define themselves by color lines, the indie crew, the metal crew, the punk crew, and the Erykah Badu/Janelle Monae crew, was a diverse crowd that inspired, yet provoked this years acts to bring it! Both sides fed off of each other, it was beautiful. It was the best of the underground meeting the best of the worldwide.
This is the true spirit of the word "festival" centered in the heart of Brooklyn, once again, the cultural "mecca" for many an artsy person. It was a place where you could find your favorite underground act, jamming to your other favorite underground act. Cool, right?
Considering attending Afro-Punk next year? Well, a picture is worth a 1,000 words, and GBSTL has more than a few that speak volumes. Check out what went down, and stay tuned for more...good stuff.--GB
Find this Fresh tie at Rocker's Closet in BK. www.rockerscloset.com
After seeing her live, it would be sac-religous not to sing this girls' praises. Alice Smith!
The Skins are a really fun, young band on the Wreckroom Records imprint.
Coco && Breezy's glasses have been featured all over the net/magazines in the past 3 years. The tag twin team had a tent out @ Afropunk, and greeted guests all day. Check em' out at www.cocoandbreezy.com.
VIDEO: AARADHNA, "WAKE UP"
Talk about getting "up and at 'em." Aaradhna's back with an artsy video to "Wake Up," her first single off Treble & Reverb, slated for November. It's an upbeat, sweet song about getting past stifling stagnation and into a more productive spirit. It's like the end of School Daze, without the shrieking. -GB
VIDEO: Aesop Rock, "Cycles to Gehenna"
Aesop Rock is at it again, this time with his third video off of the Skelethon release; it's out now on Rhymesayers Records, and the dramatically produced video above, "Cycles To Gehenna," is kinda sorta a complete indication of how grand the album is (last verse, anyone?). So watch Aesop in the background on a one man's land as "badass ballerinas" point their toes while dressed in war paint; they fight the good fight and dance the good dance. --GB
VIDEO: Ariana Grande: Gimme Some Lovin' (The Spencer Davis Group Cover)
NEW MUSIC: ALPHABEAT "LOVE SEA"
The Alphabeat sound could have been created in a time machine. Ill-fitting jeans meets lunch boxes, with pins, watching Saved By The Bell, going to a Sixteen Candles drive-in.
Yet whether it's the 70's, 80's, or 90's, Alphabeat's here to help with your time warp. They have a new single called "Love Sea," and it's sure to warm your yearning heart. It's the second single off of their next fun, upbeat album entitled Express Non-Stop out September 24. Elated? Like it? Love it? Listen now, and buy the track when it hits iTunes US soon!*
*"Love Sea" is already available on iTunes elsewhere.
Propers- Alphabeat Official
*"Love Sea" is already available on iTunes elsewhere.
Propers- Alphabeat Official
GBSTL Recap: Aloe Blacc, @ Metrotech Commons
The blaring tones of saxophones and trumpets, the strum of
the electric guitar from all sides, bombarding sound; a soulful, raspy, adroit, aged voice; the crisp stinging of the holding of a note. It’s raw
emotion at it’s finest. Sentiment, upliftment… church! A spiritual experience borne
of social activism and political unrest. Loud. Full. A shame for those who only
have the option of listening through headphones, for Beats by Dre nor Aviators can compete with this—this—live show. It’s heavy, and
intense, with the background slap of a soul-harmonic; and it's all led by Aloe Blacc.
Aloe rang in the celebration of the last BAM Rhythm and
Blues Festival act of the summer, and although he didn’t look like a seer when
he entered the stage, Aloe, with his first note, started channeling the sound
of predecessors Bill Withers, Marvin Gaye, and Donny Hathaway, but for this
generation. He starts off with “Politician” and ends the song with Stevie
Wonder’s chords to “Living For The City.”
Showing where he
likes to hang in his off hours, he continues the show with a vibrant “Tonight, Downtown,” also touching the crowd with I'm Beautiful” and “You Make Me Smile,” elated by a
young child front and center, dancing and waving his hands.
Bill Withers was the inspiration behind this next song. In “Hey Brother,” Aloe croons about a woman
doing a brother all types of wrong. On the same line of storytelling, he sings,
“Miss Fortune,” about a man who “let his fortune become his "'misfortune.'"*
Crowd participation accompanies more well known singles “I Need A Dollar,” and “Loving You Is
Killing Me;" but his long-held notes on “Cali
Dreaming” straight penetrate the heart. After playing a lesser known but groovy tune about seizing the day ("Opportunity"), he ends with a slow rendition of Michael Jackson's “Billie Jean;” yet he
couldn’t get through his set without dropping some knowledge on the kiddies.
“There’s better music than “to the window, to the wall!”
Aloe wittingly shared. “This is a different kind of ‘Birthday Cake.’ This is
the cake that lasts forever, good music.”
Clap to that. --GB
*Aloe also performed "Good Things," "Green Lights," and others during his set.
*Aloe also performed "Good Things," "Green Lights," and others during his set.
Propers: Lucia Reed, Lucia Reed Photography
EP: LAURA IZIBOR, "THE BROOKLYN SESSIONS, VOL 1"
Spotlight on Atlantic Records recording artist Laura Izibor. This snazzy Irish soul singer is working on her follow up to her 2008 debut album, Let The Truth Be Told. The Dublinite, who has loved classic R&B and soul from an early age, traveled around from city to city, recording her debut. But to keep us salivating for her next big drop, she gives a little taste of what's to come with The Brooklyn Sessions, Vol. 1. This sassy three-song offering was recorded in, you guessed it, the cultural mecca of Brooklyn, NY. Electrik Indigo Studios to be exact. And the doo-wop, reggae sound would not be complete without diaphragm-heavy, weighty harmonies, breathy yet forceful vocals, and a sort of jazzy air which makes this EP, GBSTL certified.
Oh. And you can hear the entire EP via the link below. --GB
VIDEO: JADEN SMITH, "PUMEPD UP KICKS (LIKE ME)"
Jaden Smith is at it again, this time with a remix to Foster The People's "Pumped Up Kicks." Seems like Jaden is king in his adolescent universe, the MSFTS, and has fun reigning at a skate park with all his friends--supported by fun yet laid-back privileged lifestyle raps. Gotta love the life of a teen.--GB
NEW SONG: JAY BROWN, "UNDER MY SKIN"
There's more to Jay Brown than being V V Brown's sister. She's a budding starlet, usually equipped with a guitar and a voice of rasp--her song arrangements are alternative, and this Northampton, UK crooner has another honor under her belt--having the official badge of being "what's next."
Here's a new intimate look at Jay to her old and new fans. It's called "Under My Skin," and it's sure to trickle through a few veins.
MIXTAPE: TABI BONNEY "LOVEJOY PARK"
Tabi releases his second drop of the summer, LoveJoy Park. Timely: summer lovers stateside still have one month left to canoodle in the sun.
While summers almost over, LoveJoy Park can be played year round. With the tape, Tabi takes the male perspective on finding love and all its successes and failures. The mixtape features Fat Trel, Hello Chi City, Raheem DeVaughn, and Phil Ade, and production by J Scrilla, Tone P, Kent Rockafellar, Breakbot, and Rio. The DMV-bred rapper caps off the mixtape with some NSFW cover art
.
With lots of pensive moments, insights, bluntness, a few hilarious skits with funny Aussie/cockney/London (What? Exactly.) accents, and some more of Tabi's famed banging beats, this mixtape is a fun ride. --GB
GBSTL SOUND: The Songs Behind The Blog
These are just some of the songs behind the blog-- where the world quasi-hipsterness comes from. --GB
The Cool Kids were "it" in the hipster heyday of 2008-2009. Special favorites included "Black Mags," "88," and "Mikey Rocks"off of the Cool Ass Ninjas mixtape ("Gold and a Pager" too). I especially liked "Action Figures" for it's potency. The Chicago duo is now a part of Green Label Sound, with When Fish Ride Bicycles under their belt, and with Sir Michael Rocks putting out solo mixtapes every so often (listen to his latest album/mixtape "Lap of Lux" when it drops at 3PM EST), and Chuck Inglish doing the same, also doing the producing thing.
This video shows the essence of Esperanza Spalding's appeal, stripped of the big concert hall stages and elaborate outfits. It's just talent. Her self-titled album Esperanza had a few favorites, including "I Know You Know," and this one "Cuerpo de Alma (Body & Soul)." This up above is the English version. I also like "Really Very Small" off Chamber Music Society. Really good, pure, music.
This is a relatively new one that I like. The video is all over the place, and I've got to admit that I still have watched it multiple times and love it. Even when they match they do not match. It's called "Love Me" from UK's Stooshe, and their charisma and energy overshadows order. Wouldn't give a second thought to why Nicki Minaj chose them to open up for her on her UK-leg of her tour this year.
I like the doo-wop swing too. UK is good with that.
More to come!!
I like the doo-wop swing too. UK is good with that.
More to come!!
NEW SONG SNIPPET: AARADHNA "TREBLE & REVERB"
Sometimes all it takes is 30 seconds to see if a song is hot. But all Aaradhna needed was 23.
"Treble & Reverb" is the snippet of Aaradhna's new album, also called Treble & Reverb, out in November 2012. The first single and video out in full will be entitled "Wake Up," and it will be available worldwide on August 24. The album is inspired by classic artists such as Sam Cooke, Richie Valens, Amy Winehouse, and more. This album promises to be her most open album drop to date.
So stay tuned.
GIRLBLUESTL: A TWO YEAR REFLECTION
Hey everyone—
It’s me, crawling out from behind my posts—I am, indeed, a
human being!
Thanks for taking this ride with me for the past two years.
I mean, right now, I feel like I’m kind of between milestones. It feels like I have
taken so many strides, but am far from the potential that this blog can be. They
say love the journey—I’m learning.
VIDEO: ARIANA GRANDE, "DIE IN YOUR ARMS (JUSTIN BIEBER COVER)
Ariana Grande is a Nickelodeon bred starlet with transferrable diva chord qualities--as shown in her "Die In Your Arms" cover video, derived from Justin Bieber's new album Believe. Even Justin's manager Scooter Braun gave her the thumbs up on her effort, which is available as a free download off of Soundcloud (below). Notice her fanbase--she rolls deep!
Ariana is working on her own debut album as an artist on Universal Republic.
NEW SONG: MATEO FEAT. STACEY BARTHE "LOOKING YOU UP"
Mateo stays working with a new track called "Looking You Up" featuring Stacey Barthe (who has worked with Melanie Fiona, Estelle, and Brandy, among others), off of the free Suite 823 mixtape that's set to drop next Wednesday on August 1.
Mateo held a U-Stream tonight in which he played some of his new tracks off the tape such as "Mr. Bad Guy" (which will lead the girl to him, Mr. Good Guy), "Heels To Heaven (a spin on being "head over heels")," and The Zeke MacUmber produced "Liquor and Faith." Long time collaborator Kerry "Krucial" Brothers also had a big hand in producing the project.
Addressing his fans in the Q&A session, he addressed his album, slated for the tip of next year, as "The most epic music album," explained his arm tatoo, "Stay in the music, it's safe there," and let his fans know when he would be on tour in their area.
Suite 823 drops Wednesday, and the download is available off of Suite823.com.
REVIEW: MACHEL MONTANO & BeIO, CELEBRATE BROOKLYN/ NEW SONG "Going For Gold"
Let’s start with a warning: This is not a traditional
review. This is a first hand account of an event from a witness of something
great. This is what needs to be known of the happenings of Friday night, where
Celebrate Brooklyn held a free performance in Prospect
Park, showcasing the talents of
soca sensation Machel Montano and BeIO.
Take a trip over to the social media site Twitter.com.
Search for Machel Montano in the hashtag. Look for tweets about the show, and
how wild it actually was.
Wait, GB. There’s only two or three.
Exactly.
One of the reasons there are no tweets is no, not because
Caribbeans don’t roll deep on twitter. It is that it was virtually impossible
to tweet anything about the show from the moment Machel stepped foot on the
stage. It was—pure mayhem. There’s no time to write, “Man, this show is positively
bana…”—someone pushes you from the side, there’s massive lights, the dancers
are wearing black and gold, everyone is jumping up and down and waving their
hands…which leads to the next point.
There was no moment of silence during the show. No recovery.
As soon as BeIO got off the stage, it just seemed as if the crowd couldn’t
handle the silence, and so to fill it, a random steelpan band in the audience
started playing. What in the world—where did they come from? They couldn’t even be
seen, they were surrounded by concert-goers dancing. One could see the sound technicians
just sitting there, temporarily jobless.
Most of the audience is full of seasoned Machel Montano
fans, who know every word to all of his songs, like “So High” and “Mr. Fete.”
Only a snippet of the medley of songs that he played spanning his 30-year
career. But in addition to his own songs, he brought out Farmer Nappy and Patrice
Roberts to sing some of theirs, capping it off with classics such as Destra and
Machel’s “It’s Carnival (Remix)” and “Palance,” by JW & Blaze--soca staples
to any certified party.
And the dancers? Let’s talk about the dancers. These dancers
brought all of the energy, all of the funk, all of the sweat, all of the whine—and
the raunch. It’s something like, Beyonce meets LMFAO’s “I’m Sexy and I Know It," on the way to a Jersey Shore fist-pumping shindig. There were also dancers on stilts in
the audience; it was just, really hype in the venue.
Not that dancing was only for the experienced. Learning the
dancing of soca is kind of like learning the electric slide—slide to the left,
slide to the right. Wave your flag. Jump up and down. Preparation always comes
in the form of a count, “1, 2, 1, 2, 3 go!” Some people manage to even mess
this up, but probably on purpose, because part of the fun is bumping into
people, and the islanders are really good with pardoning themselves.
One thing sensed about Machel is that he works hard. Some
artists don’t work hard. Some artists try hard, some artists are always busy,
but still don’t work hard. And Machel works hard--and yeah, it probably took some time to get to that point. I think there is envy in his
control of the crowd; it is an art, and it is not easily learned. There was not
a dull moment in the show, and at the end, we just prayed for an encore. But
the encore we got was too short. If there was any disappointment at all, it was
that the show was over.--GB
Machel's has recently released the song "Going For Gold," celebrating 50 years of Trinidad and Tobago Independence.
Mamas Gun To Put Out Cover Album; Farewell To Member of Band
Andy Platts has a message for fans of the funk/soul group Mamas Gun. In addition to announcing their third album Aversions will be covers, Andy also reported that fans can make pledges to get special, behind-the-scenes footage of the making of the album, in addition to chances to win VIP passes, and every pledge will benefit the War Child charity. This is a partnership with Pledge Music, a step that the crew is proud to make before they say farewell to their bassist "The Professor."
VIDEO: AIDEN GRIMSHAW, "Curtain Call"
Clearly the X-Factor UK's 2010 season was not to be the last time the world would be blessed with the soft yet penetrating vocals of Aiden Grimshaw. In his latest video for the single "Curtain Call," the Blackpool crooner is accompanied by Sherelle "ShezAr" McKenzie's hard hitting, emotionally pungent vocals, leaving listeners feeling like they've met Chris Martin's (Coldplay) match.
The track is off of Aiden Grimshaw's debut album Misty Eye, to be released August 20 on RCA records.
NEW SONG: Kirby Lauryen, "Love You Back To Life"
Kirby Lauryen presents to us her 200th song on YouTube. That's one original song a day, for 200 days straight!
It's called "Love You Back To Life," and it beautifully describes the love and support of picking someone else up off of the ground.
Kirby is offering to write personal songs for her fans for the next week. Tell her a story, and her next song just may be about you!
Kirby is offering to write personal songs for her fans for the next week. Tell her a story, and her next song just may be about you!
VIDEO: Natalie Imani, "Designated Driver"
Here's a video about the trip from the "ex" to the "next." It's called "Designated Driver," and besides the glitz and glam of subject Natalie Imani's gold and silver shimmered dress, the moral of the story seems to be something like, "Don't drive away on your girl or someone else will be left steering...
...the car and your girl."--GB
VIDEO: No Doubt, "Settle Down"
Wondered if No Doubt still had the chops and the hips to get down?
Think again. Adrian, Gwen, Tom, and Tony are back after 10 years with the video from their first single "Settle Down;" it's off of their new album out on September 25, Push and Shove. It seems looking exactly the same is just a small testament to the fact that they can still rock out!
The video starts off with the four driving and using their map as direction to a abandoned lot turned into a ska shindig (ska-dig!) complete with synchronized island dancers, a huge truck, lots of colors, and a band that spoke for an entire generation.
Propers-E!
NEW SONG: MICKEY FACTZ "LOVE?"
Mickey Factz drops a new one called "Love?" in which he examines love versus lust once more, proclaiming his eligibility in the process. Seems like the man behind the bold and thought-provoking Mau5 is prepared to be domestic. A bossa nova beat and heavy bass guitar accompany a glorious, chirping, forest-like piano ending to this track that you can listen to below.
NEW SONG: MATEO, "CARRY ON"
Mateo's songs always sound like an overpowering speaker infiltration, an intense musical score. And this one's no different. With a team of success story producers like Kerry "Krucial" Brothers, along with Zeke MacUmber, the brains behind Alicia Keys' tunes, Mateo is bound to make his stay at Interscope Records one for the books. The beat bombards the listener in this tune called "Carry On." So... listen to it, won't you?
VIDEO: Esperanza Spalding, "Crowned & Kissed"
Esperanza Spalding has produced quite a statuesque video for "Crowned & Kissed," off of her Radio Music Society drop a few months prior. Dressed in black garb, her and her dancers produce a tribute to a king sans diamonds and pearls, but not crown. And it's not just eros she's discussing, "This song is about the unsung royalty in your life, men and women who
quietly, every day do the mightiest, most honorable things. Although
they may not end up in castles or with great riches and power, in the
eyes of those who love them, they most certainly are mighty and regal."
VIDEO: Aesop Rock "ZZZ Top"
This is for all of you that like action flicks. Aesop Rock takes a backseat in this music video, as we watch famed martial artist Patti Li (aka Hao Zhihua) kick some serious well deserved a$$, all to the tune of the dope "ZZZ Top." Get your popcorn.
Skelethon. July 10.
Girl Blue Exclusive Interview: NATALIE IMANI (Part II)
If you were so graciously on this site when GBSTL dropped Part I of the Natalie Imani interview, you probably learned about Natalie's time at performing arts school LaGuardia High, her work with John Legend and Jazmine Sullivan, and about her Passion Mark EP.
But now, it's time to have a little fun!
In the second and final part of my interview with Natalie Imani, we get to the bottom of what she does when a date is boring, her favorite place to chow down in NYC, and her most prized accessory.
VIDEO: JADEN SMITH, "GONZOES"
Jaden Smith dramatically lays down a track about being at the top and all that comes with it in this dim-lit video clip called "Gonzoes" featuring Moises Arias. The MSFTS may just be the next teen movement; but if you don't agree, feel free to laugh along with them at the end.
5 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT REBECCA FERGUSON
@RebeccaFMusic
Rebecca Ferguson is soon to become the world’s next
household name. The soulful singer who became a hit on the UK’s X Factor has recently released a debut
album called Heaven which has gone
platinum overseas in Ireland
and the UK.
The crooner’s voice contains the chords of Adele with Sade’s
softness, Celine’s juxtaposed serenity and forcefulness with Aretha’s
old-school feel. And while there’s more than enough factoids about Rebecca
Ferguson to go around, GBSTL has chosen five that you absolutely, positively,
need to know.
GBSTL 2012 SUMMER "TO DO" FREE CONCERT LIST UPDATED
Sweat and stickiness? BBQ's and beaches, sprinklers and fire hydrants, yup. It's summertime alright! And enjoying the sunshine beats staying home hogging the air conditioner (or fan!). But why, when there are free summer concerts in New York City?
Summer is a chance for NYC to catch their favorite artist in the sun, while sprawled out on a blanket, for no money down. It's a great way to catch world acts, and also a great way to scope out new acts on the horizon.
Want in? Well start off with GBSTL's handy free concert calendar, and check the website (links are below) for details/cancellations, time changes, the like. Get a posse, put some ice waters in your bag, and away you go!
Things you should know:
--Morning shows with established artists require you to get there extra early, so plan on getting up before daylight and being there at least an hour before showtime.
--Punctuality, actually, is the way to go with these concerts. Plan on arriving at least an hour early to avoid the lines, but use discretion. The bigger the artist, the bigger the crowd.
--See particular websites for photo/film rules.
--Also check websites for what you can and cannot bring. Chairs, etc.
--Pack lunch if you don't want to shell out the bucks on inflated venue meal prices.
AFRO PUNK FESTIVAL:
What it's about: Started by Matthew Morgan and James Spooner in 2002, this festival was created to celebrate Afro Punk: music, film, skate, and the unique members that embody that community. Last year Res, Cee-Lo Green, Santigold, Janelle Monáe, Gordon Voidwell, Jay Electronica, and more were expected before Hurricane Irene ripped through and festival heads cancelled the show. This year should make up for it.
UPDATE: This year, expect Erykah Badu, Janelle Monáe, Gym Class Heroes, Das Racist, Cerebal Ballsy, Gordon Voidwell, Skindred and more. All with a street skate and BMX competition in the heart of BK.
Check out more: AFROPUNK
CELEBRATE BROOKLYN:
What it's about: Celebrate Brooklyn! is run by BRIC Performing Arts, and supports music, dance, theater, and new acts. There are over 25 free performances each summer.
Where: Prospect Park Bandshell
Check out more: CELEBRATE BK
TODAY TOYOTA CONCERT SERIES:
What it's about: Outside TODAY's window many a Friday morning are a bunch of people jamming to the biggest hitmakers in the country.
Where: TODAY's Window on the World Studio, located at 49th Street and Rockefeller Plaza in New York City
Check out more: TODAY
CITY PARKS FOUNDATION/ SUMMERSTAGE:
What it's about: As the only independent, nonprofit organization to offer shows in all five boroughs of NYC, it also always and consistently has a great and well-rounded line up. Includes Summerstage, NY's largest free performing arts festival, bringing more than their fair share of performances to 18 parks in the five boroughs. Everywhere from hip-hop to world, Summerstage covers it all.
Where: All five boroughs, NYC/Mainstage at Rumsey Playfield, other stages throughout NYC.
Check out more: SUMMERSTAGE
MLK CONCERT SERIES:
What it 's about: Hosted by Borough President Marty Markowitz, this Monday Night concert series is celebrating its 30th Anniversary.
Where: Wingate Field, Brooklyn
Check out more: MLK SERIES
GOOD MORNING AMERICA CONCERT SERIES:
What it's about: ABC's Good Morning America concert series brings the biggest acts out for big productions all summer, in the heart of NYC, and bright and early on a weekday morning.
Where: Rumsey Playfield in Central Park
Check out more: GOOD MORNING AMERICA
RIVER TO RIVER
What it's about: Into music, dance, theater and visual art? Everything comes in River-To-River's summer event schedule, showing in Governors Island, Rockefeller Park and more from June 17 to July 15.
Where: Various
Check out more: RIVER TO RIVER
THE LOWDOWN HUDSON BLUES FESTIVAL:
What it's about: Two days of the best of blues, then and now. For those who love it, July 11 and 12 is when it's going down, and when blues lovers may just get happy! Featuring the legendary Buddy Guy, 12-year-old prodigy Quinn Sullivan, and John Mayall (of John Mayall and the Bluesbreakers).
Where: WFC Plaza
Check out more: LOWDOWN HUDSON
VILLAGE VOICE 4 KNOTS MUSIC FESTIVAL
What it's about: One day, all day, with acts of tomorrow such as Bleached, Crocodiles, Nick Waterhouse, and Hospitality; showcasing the sound of the city. Free for all ages (July 14).
Where: South Street Seaport, Pier 17
Check out more: VV 4 KNOTS
RIVER ROCKS CONCERT SERIES:
What it's about: Free concerts by the pier, in quality not quantity.
Where: Pier 84 (New Location)
Check out more: RIVER ROCKS
BROADWAY IN BRYANT PARK:
What it's about: Presented by 106.7 Lite FM, the biggest acts on Broadway perform lunchtime sets in the heart of NYC.
Where: Bryant Park Lawn, NYC
Check out more: BWAY BRYANT PARK
MAD DECENT BLOCK PARTY:
What it's about: A bunch of people rocking out and jumping up and down to the best of electro, club, house hits on Diplo's Mad Decent Label. The day-festival will hit a few cities this year, New York on August 5. What's in store for concert goer's this year? Well, just look at the promo video.
Where: Location TBA
Check out more: MAD DECENT
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