soul news

Organix Soul @ Holiday Inn-Panorama resturant

Washington, DC

Apr 25 2008

7:00P

Star Lite Cafe

Washington, DC

Apr 26 2008

8:00P

Springfield, MA

Apr 29 2008

12:00P

Mariam's House (Private Event)

Washington, DC

Apr 29 2008

6:00P

Washington, DC

May 2 2008

8:00P

Mission Theater "Hybrid" Keegan Smith CD Release Party

Portland, OR

May 3 2008

8:00P

Portland, OR

May 4 2008

8:00P

Portland, OR

May 5 2008

8:00P

Portland, OR

May 6 2008

8:00P

Portland, OR

May 7 2008

8:00P

Portland, OR

May 8 2008

8:00P

Portland, OR

May 9 2008

8:00P

Crooning for the Cure: Multiple Sclerosis Benefit Show? @ Mecury Cafe

Portland, OR

May 10 2008

6:00P

Chicago, IL

May 17 2008

8:00P

Frank's Lounge/ Nu Soul Saturdays

Brooklyn, NY

May 28 2008

8:00P

Bohemian Caverns: Rhythm & Soul Series with Siji (Yoruba Night)

Washington, DC

May 29 2008

8:00P

SOLOMON'S PORCH

BROOKLYN, NY

Jun 4 2008

12:00P

Washington, DC

Jun 11 2008

12:00P

Washington, DC

Jun 19 2008

12:00P

Washington, DC

Jun 26 2008

12:00P

National Harbor Concert Series

Washington, DC

Jul 18 2008

5:00P

Baltimore MD

Aug 9 2008

7:00P

Private Event

Ithaca,NY

Aug 28 2008

8:00P

DC9

Washington DC

Sep 1 2008

8:00P

Paris

Sep 2 2008

8:00P

Paris

Sep 3 2008

8:00P

Paris

Sep 8 2008

8:00P

Visit Piper Anderson online to learn more!

Paris

The ISB Radio Show

The ISB Radio Show

Listen to the best in Soul/R&B music that mainstream radio ignores every Saturday and Sunday at 1pm E.S.T. on RhythmAndSoulRadio.com. Hosted by DJ DAN C.E.

The ISB Radio Show
on RhythmAndSoulRadio.com

China Black in Mi2N

Check out article on Basketball Hall of Famer  Earl "The Pearl" Monroe's new artist China Blak in Mi2N.

http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=109067

BrazenBunch and Lifeforce Band

BrazenBunch and Lifeforce Band continue their joint tour de force presenting journeys through Jazz, Soul, Folk, and Blues and everything in between.

It is a unique opportunity to see some of the most innovative of established and emerging artists performing their own original musical compositions in an intimate environment. Backed by The Lifeforce Band who have backed artists from Omar to Caron Wheeler.

Modern instruments such as the violectra and electronic loopers and traditional instruments such as the kalimba and steel pan will feature during the series of events that show music really has no boundaries.

FRIDAY 2nd MAY - 8.00pm
Lifeforce - Journeys from Jazz through to Soul and more

Guests:
Imaani, Don-e, Joy Rose, Baby Sol, Root Jackson

The Vortex, 11 Gillett Square, N16 (0207 254 4097)

Tickets:£10

http://www.vortexjazz.co.uk/this-months-programme.html#may

Manchildblack, My Mind's I

Manchildblack, My Mind's I

Singer, songwriter, Raw Soul pathfinder - Manchildblack - celebrates the release of his highly anticipated EP, My Mind's I, with a live performance at Joe's Pub
Monday, May 5th, 2008, 9:00pm

Manchildblack celebrates the release of the highly anticipated My Mind's I EP, a follow-up to his Awake In A Dream EP released on the legendary label, West End Records. Manchildblack’s My Mind's I EP features a collection of incredible soul music full of passion, truth, and love.

Making his Joe’s Pub debut, Manchildblack will perform brand new material from this EP, as well as the acclaimed "Rain," "To The Sky," and much more!

With special guest DJ Ian Friday (Tea Party Music, Libation).

JOE'S PUB at The Public Theater at 425 Lafayette St. TICKETS: 212-967-7555, joespub.com and in person at The Public Theater Box Office or Joe’s Pub
TABLE RESERVATIONS: 212-539-8778
Seating, as well as standing-room, is available only on a first-come, first-served basis for all shows without a dinner reservation.

For more information on Manchildblack, press photos, interviews, or to arrange press clearance for the performance at Joe's Pub, please contact Lorie Caval at Lovebug PR: 212-726-1322, lorie@lovebugpr.com, www.lovebugpr.com

Manchildblack: Biography

"As he searches for his own promised land, Manchildblack might be on the road to delivering us all."
- Jason King (Freelance writer for Vibe Magazine & Village Voice/Artistic Director of The Clive Davis Department of Recorded Music at Tisch School of the Arts, NYU).

A proponent of what he calls "Raw Soul"- an amalgamation of Funk/Rock/Hip-Hop and R&B, Manchildblack brings to the music world uplifting and socially conscious lyrics, a bohemian sense of style, and a warm and inviting spirit that illuminates every stage he graces. Like his idols Stevie, Donny, Marvin and Gil, Manchildblack is on a mission to heal, educate and elevate audiences through inspirational songs of life, love and self-discovery.

The name Manchild may conjure up memories of Claude Brown's searing novel, Manchild in the Promised Land, but it has quite a different history for the man himself. "I was born Derek Deeocie Gentry," Manchild confesses "but a Rastaman I knew during my time in D.C. would call me 'Manchild.' He never explained why, but when I started doing music I decided the name fit who I was musically and epitomized what I was singing about. For me, the name represents the three constants in my life - I will always be a man, I will always be a child of God and I will always be black. Everything else about me may change but those aspects will always remain." Although the name (all one word) has no immediate relationship to Claude Brown's book, the similarities are there. The classic 1965 novel offered truthful evidence of what it meant to survive as a black man in a complex, troubling society. In the same vein, many of Manchildblack's original songs, most of which are co-written by guitarist Shelton Garner, also comment on the plight of African-Americans, shedding new light on problems of self-esteem, masculinity, and racism, among other topics.

A native New Yorker, Manchildblack didn't just emerge as a recording artist overnight. Fed on a steadfast diet of his parent's music, including the songs of Otis Redding, Jackie Wilson and Sam Cooke, Manchild always knew he was destined to be a performer. "I never wanted to do anything else", he professes, "I was a shy and quiet kid so writing and performing was my outlet." After briefly attending Howard University in Washington D.C. as a drama major, Manchild purchased a one-way Greyhound ticket back to NYC to "do it on a bigger scale." In the Big Apple, he began to build his acting résumé, appearing in shows like the world premiere of the Richard Adler and Bill C. Davis musical Off-Key at the George Street Playhouse and even on the now defunct crime series on the A&E Network, 100 Centre Street. More recently, he received critical raves as Racine in Carl Hancock Rux's Asphalt which featured music by Toshi Reagon and DJ Spooky.

Although much of Manchild's artistic work had occurred in the theater, the unexpected passing of his father several years ago caused him to change direction and make a more decided move toward first love, music. Just as the Neo-Soul movement was starting to take baby steps, Manchild launched the band Urban Folklore along with writing and performing partner Nzinga. Tuned into the same philosophical frequency, the soulful duo co-wrote and performed Hip-Hop Soul music for eager audiences generating a cult following around the city. While gigging at popular local venues like SOB's and CB's Gallery alongside other emerging artists like John Legend and Res, Urban Folklore attempted to get signed and went though a rough phase of management deals. After a few years, the duo disbanded and Manchild left Urban Folklore for greener pastures. "I was beginning to write material that was more introspective and not necessarily appropriate for the group," he explains.

The audience reaction to his solo debut a month later convinced him that he had made the right decision. "That night I knew that I was finally doing what I was supposed to be doing and reaching people the way I knew I should be reaching them," Manchild states. "I felt like I was home."

As time moved on, Manchild found himself perfecting his incredible live stage persona all over NYC. He performed to packed audiences at such notable venues as Blue Note, BAM Cafe, Joe's Pub, Sugar Bar, Symphony Space and even Central Park Summerstage, where he shared the stage with Vernon Reid, Corey Glover, Caron Wheeler and the Black Rock Coalition.

In 2006, Manchildblack was signed to legendary record label West End Records, releasing the critically acclaimed Awake in a Dream EP. Included on the release was the melodic ode to his father "To the Sky." The video for the song received frequent airplay on the BET J network introducing Manchild's music and style to the masses. Also, on the EP was the dance floor filler "Rain," which found itself on the play lists of such internationally respected DJs as Louie Vega, Gilles Peterson, Bobbito Garcia and Rich Medina. His journey into the dance music realm inspired him to become instrumental in producing two notable New York nightlife events. ALMA NYC, the monthly Neo-Brazilian Fusion party, has been widely praised for its high energy and percussive grooves. He later teamed with Global Soul DJ/producer Ian Friday to create the bi-weekly event, Libation. The party has become a hugely popular destination for all lovers of Soulful Dance Music and is instrumental in burgeoning the Global Soul musical movement, featuring guest DJs and performers including Osunlade, DJ Spinna, Karizma, Wunmi and Stephanie McKay. "Doing parties is just an extension of what I do musically. The music played and vibe created is meant to make people feel good - and that's the same reason I do music."

In mid 2008, Manchildblack will release his brand new and much anticipated My Mind’s I EP which will be the pre-cursor to his long awaited first full length album. "For me, this album is a collection of songs that tell the story of my life up till now. It's a reflection of everything I've learned, seen, heard and felt." "Outtasight," the album’s thumping opening track is a ‘funkdafied’ introduction to the Manchildblack sound. The mid-tempo groove "Heavy" showcases Manchild's rich and resonant baritone and centers around his observations about the issue of racism still plaguing our society. "There's an energy of change happening in the world right now," Manchild states. "Events are occurring to make us examine ourselves and if we don't take this opportunity to handle our dirty laundry from the past were going to be forever stuck there." The aggressive Hip-Hop/Rock anthem "Ascension" is a wake up call to the masses to rise up and claim their life. "I wrote that song for my own selfish reasons," he laughs, " I needed something that was going to motivate me to keep moving forward with my dreams and not let anyone or anything deter me, so that's a song I keep in my head on a daily basis." The uplifting "Wordz" with its catchy hook, bright horns and funky vocoder is a track that professes both spiritual and romantic love. "In essence all of my songs are about some form of love or another, whether it be spiritual, romantic or self love".

>From singer/songwriter to recording artist to taste-maker to clothing designer of the "Black like Jesus" t-shirt line, Manchildblack is this generation’s true renaissance man. His music and mission are both clear and powerful and is now resonating with audiences around the world. "This is about more than me, it's about a movement and I plan to be one of the leaders in the forefront of the change that's coming".

Choklate live @ Ruby Lo

FUSED presents Choklate live! @ Ruby Lo

Thursday 24th April

Fused: the New Music Boutique continues to bring you the freshest and finest soul music and welcomes Seattle soul singer Choklate in her first solo UK show, performing tracks from her debut album in an acoustic and unplugged setting with guitarist Ciaran Fahy. After being sighted on releases by Breakestra, De La Soul, Blacksheep, Gift of Gab and Chali 2na’s solo albums, Choklate followed through with her self titled album Choklate, one of the strongest independent soul albums of the last two years. She brings with her a reputation as a fierce live performer.

www.choklatemusic.com
www.myspace.com/listen2chok
www.myspace.com/choklatemusic

Amplified Presents FUSED: New Music Boutique
Choklate live
Thursday 24th April 2008
Admission: £5
7pm - 12am

Sequoia @ Ruby Lo
23 Orchard Street
London
W1H 6HL
0207 486 3671
www.ruby.uk.com

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

Lower Eastside Girls Club

The Lower Eastside Girls Club Presents...
THE SATURDAY PERFORMANCE SERIES

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@ Art+Community Gallery
56 East 1st Street (1st/2nd Aves)
Saturdays @ 3:30PM
FREE to the community
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Join us April 19, 2008 for
IMMIGRANT HERITAGE WEEK
with Piper Anderson, Tara Betts & Pamela Joy!

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THE SATURDAY PERFORMANCE SERIES IS A PROUD
PARTICIPANT IN IMMIGRANT HERITAGE WEEK! //

Come celebrate with us for a short Girls Club-created video about immigration and stay for poets
Piper Anderson, Tara Betts and Pamela Joy. Each poet will share their own immigration story!

Immigrant Heritage Week is a city-wide celebration that honors the experiences and contributions of immigrants in New York City. Established by Mayor Michael Bloomberg in 2004 and coordinated by the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs, Immigrant Heritage Week is a rich collection of free or low-cost programs that build cross-cultural understanding between diverse New Yorkers. Read more here.

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PIPER ANDERSON //
Piper Anderson is a musician, actress, writer, healer, Filmmaker and educator based in Brooklyn, NY. Anderson has toured nationally as a musician and performance poet sharing the stage with such internationally acclaimed artists as The Last Poets, Medusa, Doug E. Fresh, Dead Prez, The Jungle Brothers, and many others. In 2007 Anderson founded She Leads Media a company committed to creating cultural products in the realm of theatre, film, music, and fashion that breed a spirit of inspiration, celebration, and communal healing.

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TARA BETTS //
Tara Betts describes her writing as a blend of performance, formalism, autobiography and lyricism. She has performed in New York, Cuba and throughout the Midwest. Her work has been adapted at the nationally-renowned Steppenwolf Theater for the production "Words on Fire." Her short story from That Takes Ovaries! was also adapted by Washington, DC-based Horizons Theatre Company. She is also a fellow at Cave Canem, an African-American poets' workshop/retreat.

Visit Tara Betts online to learn more!

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PAMELA JOY //
Pamela Joy is a movement artist and poet. Using words to skip stones through the city, she has been writing, reading, yelling and humming her works throughout Brooklyn and Manhattan island. She has self published such collections as "Water in all the wrong places", and "Woman of Needing Her Sleep-Wishing for Nothing Else, Wishing on an Anonymous Eardrum. If I could Find the Right Muffler, the Voices in My Head Would Stop Crying. Everyone Was Invited In." She also makes picture books.

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And then come back for...

April 26, 2008: Erika Rose & Eagle Nebula
May 03, 2008: Lasonya Gunter, Alison Crockett & Rhonda Denet
May 10, 2008: Marty McConnell, Rebecca Hart & Shanelle Gabriel
May 17, 2008: Martha Redbone, Jen Chapin & DJ Laylo
May 24, 2008: Madafi & Christa Bell
May 31, 2008: Last Saturday Performance of season!
All-female DJ dance party featuring DJ Sabine & DJ Kamala
with live painting by Fly Lady Di, Crystal Clarity and more!

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Please visit http://www.girlsclub.org/about/perform for the full calendar, artist bios and links, and more information about the series.

& be sure to listen to the podcasts at http://www.girlsclubworldwide.org/wp

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What you missed last week!...
Jeanann Verlee, Jessi Robertson
& Cristin O'Keefe Aptowicz!

What a special day of phenomenal performances. Check out our awesome photos below! Our biggest thanks for our performers for tearing down the house... Be sure to check Girls On Air next week for podcasts of the show!

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The Lower Eastside Girls Club Saturday Performance Series, now in its second year, is a weekly afternoon performance series, open to the public,free-of-charge and featuring all-women line-ups of musicians, singer-songwriters, MC’s and poets. This project is dedicated to upholding the Girls Club’s mission of offering free and innovative cultural programming to Girls Club members, connecting the Girls Club to the greater community, and supporting women in the arts. http://www.girlsclub.org/about/perform

This program is supported, in part, by public funds from the
New York City Department of Cultural Affairs.

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The Lower Eastside Girls Club is dedicated to providing a place where girls and young women 8-23 can grow, learn, have fun, and develop confidence in themselves and their ability to make a difference in the world. By delivering strong and innovative arts, athletic, cultural, life-skills and career oriented programming, we provide girls with the vision to plan - and the tools to build - their future.

http://www.girlsclub.org

For more information please contact Caitlin at
(212) 982.1633 ext 105 or development@girlsclub.org

Check Out Ebonyjet.com Podcast w/Jean Baylor (formerly of Zhane)

Hi Everybody!!!!

While you're at your computers today Check out Jean Baylor's feature podcast on EbonyJet.com!

http://www.ebonyjet.com/

Digital Album Download available at:

http://www.dajams.com

For Bookings : Joi@runent.com

JB starts 2nd half of the Marcus Miller Tour April 23rd, 2008

www.myspace.com/jeanbaylor

RUN? Entertainment, Inc.
aRe yoU iN?
Chicago, Illinois 60619
773.891.1845 (new office #)
joi@runent.com
http://www.runent.com - updated site coming soon
http://www.jeanbaylor.com
http://www.larenztate.com

Mother's Day Brunch! Sunday, May 11, 2008 @ 2:30pm

Wow! I can't believe it's been almost a year since "all outta words..." streeted May 7 of 2007. My 1st solo live performance after many years of working in solitude was at Billie's Black, Mother's Day 2007. I am so grateful that Adrienne opened the doors to the restaurant named in honor of her Mother and allowed me to break the new cd in. Now what I have to tell you today is that I’ve been invited back again this year (Thanks also to "sweet as Billie's peach cobbler" Alison - Events coordinator at Billie's). This time the gig is with my black and old gold fraternity brother Mr. Mark Vodery. We hope that you will join us as we honor Mama! For those of you who've not been to Billie's Black before it's a must that should get added to your bucket list (if you have one). From the gourmet omelet’s to the crab cakes and waffles to the amazing French martini's you will certainly enjoy yourself honoring mom, eating some great food and listening to some great music. See the details below.

Amp Fiddler - post-tour update, podcast and free MP3

A huge thanks to everyone that came out in support of Amp on his recent tour across the US. Amp is now back in Detroit working on new material in his studio at Camp Amp, as well preparing for a very exciting music collaboration of which we will be telling you more about soon! We want to say a special thanks to some of the US tour sponsors; Zig Zag, Scion, Behringer, Fusicology, the tour manager Jaime from Good Time Girl Productions, and everyone else involved in bringing it all together.
Amp and the rest of the band will be back on the road again this summer in Europe, including an already confirmed appearance at new UK festival Beachdown on the South Downs.

Amp has recorded a post-tour podcast as he reflects on some of the best moments. You can hear this exclusively through his website by clicking here.
If you didn't listen to Amp's previous podcast which includes plays of some previously unreleased material as well as him giving his tip for the US presidential elections, you can still download that for free through iTunes

With winter seemingly finally behind many of us and spring firmly in the air (aside from for our good friends in the Southern Hemisphere who now have winter knowking on the door!), we thought it only right to give you all a free MP3 of Amp's upbeat track You Must Be The One. Click here to download

We have had a brilliant response since starting up Amp's street team, with a growing network of fans from around world helping spread the word about Amp's music and shows.
We're still recruiting, so if you are interested in being a part of this, please drop us an email and let us know. Anything from, helping give out stickers and flyers to your friends, holding Amp Fiddler listening parties, online blog postings and event promo, will all help to get Amp's music to more ears!! In return for your help we'll shower you with Amp goodies; exclusive MP3s, free promos, signed posters, tickets to shows and more!
If this interests you, please drop us an email at info@ampfiddler.com

We have re-pressed a limited number of copies of Amp's first ever album that he produced with his brother Bubz back in 1990. It's a great introduction to Amp's early sound and a fasincating insight to how his music has evolved since then. This CD is available exclusively through Amp's online store, along with copies of Amp's two other album releases Waltz Of A Ghetto Fly and Afro Strut. Amp's store is also the best place for buying Amp branded t-shirts, hoodies and beanie hats.

Amp regularly checks into his online messageboard to chat with any folks on there, so check it out if you ever get a chance. He also does regular 'question & answer' sessions on there, so if you ever wondered whats been his favourite live show, the music he listened to growing up, or his tip for the upcoming presidential elections, then head on over there. The messageboard is also a great place to meet other fans and share your experiences, photos and anything else you want to share.
Click here for his messageboard

Amp also has online profiles at the following. Click on the links below
Amp on Myspace - Amp on Facebook - Amp on Imeem - Amp on BlackPlanet - Amp on ReverbNation - Amp on Virb - Amp on YouTube

Thanks for your continued support

Soultrain SHOWCASE CONCERT BRISTOL 4 MAY

For 30 years now Light Of The World have led the way for British jazz/funk and soul movement.

http://www.lotw-funk.com

http://www.myspace.com/lightoftheworldfunk
http://www.soultrain.co.uk

for downloads http://www.lotw-funk.com/lotw/download.h

Coming Soon Bank Holiday Sunday May 4 ....

Light of the World
-Nu-Soul/Funk & Soul Jazz

live in concert at Soultrain Panache* Bristol

HIT SINGLES INCLUDE :

Beggar & Co. – SOMEBODY HELP ME OUT
Incognito – PARISIENNE GIRL/SHINE ON with Bluey Maunick
Spandau Ballet – CHANT NO. 1
SWINGIN’
MIDNIGHT GROOVIN’
I SHOT THE SHERIFF
LONDON TOWN
I’M SO HAPPY
PETE’S CRUSADE
THE BOYS IN BLUE
TIME
FAMOUS FACES
No. 1 GIRL
FEEL THE REAL ( ft David Bendeth )
WALK DON’T RUN (Ft. Alexander O’Neal

A Brief History of LOTW ......................

The history of Light of the World can be traced back as early as 1975 when Paul ‘Tubbs’ Williams began joining in practice sessions with a group of friends. As players came and went the sessions became more serious and the eventual 8-piece line-up began arranging gigs in and around the East End of London. Interest in the band grew and they soon signed to Ensign Records, releasing their debut album – ‘Light of the World’ – in 1978.

The album was well received but tragedy struck after a particularly successful nationwide tour to promote it. Returning from Scotland one of the vans crashed killing the band’s percussionist and this, in turn, was followed by the departure of one of the guitarists. The remaining members advertised for replacements, which is where ‘Nat’ Augustin and Gee Bello entered the scene in January 1979. This line-up was to release a further four singles (making six in all) and a second album before parting with their record company as well as each other. In June ’81 the band undertook a 12-date, farewell tour of the UK, which culminated in an emotional, sell-out at London’s Hammersmith Odeon.

By this time ‘Tubbs’ was already involved with a sideline project ‘Incognito’ (together with Jean Paul ‘Bluey’ Maunick) and three of the other members had decided to form Beggar & Co. leaving Nat and Gee to continue as Light of the World.

When, in1979, Ensign Records announced their latest signing, London jazz/funk group Light Of The World, it was greeted with an audible shrug. British soul or funk was notoriously little more than a pale copy of US music, and here was a group who had even nicked their name from the Kool & The Gang album Light Of Worlds.

But those in the know – the South East’s growing funk club scene – we well aware there something much more going on. The label’s Director of A&R was Chris Hill, that soul circuit’s founding father and most in-demand deejay, and Light Of The World themselves had been gigging for years, wowing local crowds while they honed their brass-heavy jazz/funk into something unique. And uniquely British.

Although their grooves began life as they grew up listening to Curtis Mayfield, Herbie Hancock’s Head Hunters, The Crusaders, Jimmy McGriff, Earth Wind & Fire and older brothers’ Miles and John Coltrane, they made a point of weaving in the sounds of their immediate environment. LOTW funk had echoes of Africa, strains of Top Of The Pops, sound system sensibilities and sharp North London wit. Their first album and the singles from it Swingin’ and Midnight Groovin’ (Top 50 and Top 75 respectively) didn’t simply fit in at at funk clubs like Columbo’s or Upstairs At Ronnie’s or Crackers, they Columbo’s or Upstairs At Ronnie’s or …
“Not being afraid to show our British selves was something we made a point of doing,” explains percussionist and front man Gee Bello. “As musicians we wanted to express ourselves as honestly as possible, and all that stuff was part of what had got us to that point. Then of course it made us far more special to our audience because we reflected them more accurately. That’s why they took to us like they did.”

By the end of the 1970s, Britfunk, as it was known, was huge, filling vast suburban venues for Soul All-Dayer and Weekenders, with Light Off The World the scene’s house band. It opened the way for a slew of acts, and very soon bands like Central Line, Linx, Freeze, Hi-Tension, Level 42, Shakatak, Atmosphear started breaking through into the pop charts.

Meanwhile, the leaders were going from strength to strength, with their second album, 1980’s , being produced partly in Los Angeles by funk veteran Augie Johnson ( Side Effect, Wayne Henderson, Brothers Johnson). At the time this cause great concern among the group’s growing fanbase that a slick West Coast production job would smooth out so much of the spikey London edge. Nobody was disappointed though. Breezy, danceable singles like London Town, I’m So Happy and I Shot The Sheriff (all Top 40) sat next to deeper album cuts like Boys In Blue (an anti-Sus Law song), Time and Pete’s Crusade (a tribute to the US jazz band The Crusaders, favourite of keyboardist Peter Hinds), and it was all held together by LOTW’s strength of character and unique understanding of what was funky in the UK in 1980.

With such success, remarkably, by the end of that year Light Of The World had split up. According to Gee, their learning curve had been so steep the individual members had outgrown the group almost instantly. “We were kids when we started Light Of The World, and over that two year period when we had fantastic success, we grew into men – both as musicians and as people. After we’d recorded and worked the second album, , we knew the band format that had been decided on when some of the guys were as young as fifteen just wasn’t for us any more. We wanted to do other things, that wouldn’t have been possible if we’d all stayed together in the band.”

Bluey Maunick (guitar), Peter Hinds (keyboards) and Tubbs Williams (bass) formed Incognito; Baps Baptise (trumpet), Kenny Wellington (trumpet) and Breeze McKreith (guitarist) became Beggar & Co who immediately had the hit Chant No 1 with Spandau Ballet; Gee and Nat Augustin carried on as Light Of The World for one more album, 1982’s

LOTW signed a long-term worldwide recording contract with EMI Records (UK) in September (1981), releasing their first single with the company – "Ride The Love Train" – in November. Work then began on the Album, recorded during January at the Sound Suite Studios in Camden Town. Nat and Gee invited Nigel Martinez to produce after hearing his work with Billy Ocean and Norman Connors, They also asked Tubbs to help out (he’d recently left Incognito) and the liaison worked so well that he was asked to join permanently just as he was about to be invited anyway!

In 1982 Light of the World released its’ debut album for EMI Records (UK) called ‘Check Us Out’, followed by the release of a second single "No. 1 Girl". This led to a major UK tour starting in Southend on the 23rd July 1982 and finishing at London’s Hammersmith Odeon on Saturday 31st July 1982, the ticket prices then ranged from £2.00 to £4.00. Tubbs, Nat and Gee were then joined by other members from the Original Light of the World line-up, namely, Mel Gaynor, Peter Hinds and David Baptiste. Since then the band has evolved naturally with several line-up changes over the next 25 years but with Gee Bello and Nat Augustin always being at the core of the consistently evolving live unit.

The current line-up of Light Of The World consists of:-

Gee Bello - Bandleader, Producer, Lead Vocalist, Percussionist

Nat Augustin - Guitarist, Lead Vocalist, Trombone, Horn Arranger, Producer

Mel Gaynor - Drummer Extraordinaire, Producer

Colin Graham - Trumpet

Simon Finch - Trumpet

Patrick Clahar - Saxophone

Frank Felix - Bass

Stephane Deriau-Raine - Keyboards

Check out Chris Hill’s intro sleeve notes from "Light Of The World Anthology:" Addicted To Funk" released May 2006 through EMI Records UK:-

"I first heard LIGHT OF THE WORLD when their manager Joe Williams and his cousin, David Grant (Linx) gave me a test pressing of a very rough demo of the track "Swingin'". I was impressed and saw them some time later at one of their first ever gigs. They combined the street funk of American outfits like The Fatback Band and the raw energy that was part of the U.K.punk ethic.

The original line up consisted of Kenny Wellington (trumpet) "Baps" Baptiste (sax) "Bluey" Maunick (guitar) "Breeze" McKreith (guitar) Everton McCalla (drums) Peter Hinds (keyboards), "Tubbs" Williams (bass) and Chris Etienne (percussion) signing them to Ensign Records, I went about finding them a producer for their first album. Vinnie Castellano had worked at All Platinum with groups like the Moments and was fascinated with the idea of recording a British punk/funk band. Their first single "Swingin" charted in the top 50 and was followed with "Midnight Groovin". However while touring to support their first album, the band were involved in a tragic motorway crash, which resulted in the death of their youngest member, percussionist Chris Etienne. The trauma of this resulted in "Bluey" leaving the band. However after much reflection the guys regrouped and added Nat Augustin and Gee Bello to the line-up. Building up a huge following for their live gigs, they played at the first CAISTER SOUL WEEKENDER in 1979,and appeared alongside Americans, LONNIE LISTON SMITH and GQ, in 1980 at NATIONAL SOUL DAY at KNEBWORTH PARK.

Our next move was to find a production team for their second album. Augie Johnson had worked with such luminaries as Wayne Henderson and Side Effect and it was time to develop the band to a level where they could compete with their American counterparts.

"ROUND TRIP" was just that, half recorded in London and Los Angeles and augmenting the band with some of America's finest musicians it was a landmark record for British black music. As musicians they had reached the point where they were in demand for numerous recordings and tours with the major pop groups of the day. Splitting into a number of spin off groups,"Tubbs" and "Bluey" with Peter Hinds formed INCOGNITO while "Baps","Breeze" and Kenny formed BEGGAR and CO and worked with SPANDAU BALLET. Gee reformed LIGHT OF THE WORLD with Nat and Tubbs for the 1982 album "Check Us Out". That young band I had seen in 1978 had become the core of the British black music scene that grew through the 80's and 90's into a world-class movement.

CHRIS HILL (DJ and ex-A&R director for ENSIGN RECORDS)

And just to make sure you know all about the tracks, here’s a track-by-track rundown on the anthology:-

Anthology: Addicted To Funk' (EMI) is an essential buy for any Brit-funk fan, especially as CD2 includes tracks from Incognito Beggaer & Co's 'Somebody Help Me Out' and Spandau Ballet's 'Chant No. 1'!

they mark those decades with a 2CD anthology.

Centrepiece on the album are two brand new tracks, "Feel The Real", and "Walk Don't Run", the latter is a collaboration with soul legend Alexander O'Neal

LIGHT OF THE WORLD – ANTHOLOGY

CD 1

1) Light Of The World - Swingin’ (12" edited version) (4.40)

70s Brit-funk Dance (133 BPM)

The fast, the furious and the funky! With help from our then manager Joe Williams this was the first track that we recorded as LOTW. The demo of this breakneck speed driven thing helped us to secure an album deal with Ensign Records. We played a showcase gig at Manor House and felt an excitement that can only be felt once in a lifetime, the beginning of something big! This was the moment we had all been waiting for. Punk Funk for a new generation!

Bluey

2) Light Of The World - Midnight Groovin’ (7" version) (3.25)

70s Brit-funk Dance (133 BPM)

We used to rehearse above a record shop on Tottenham High Road. Tubbs was at school and a few of us had jobs, so the sessions would run late into the night, but our commitment was unquestionable. At that point the band did not have any outright lead vocalist, so we used the group chant to create our sound and it worked to great effect. During this period we toured the UK’s club circuit in a couple of vans non-stop, sharing rooms and sometimes blankets. But all hardships were soon be forgotten when we hit the stage. The word was out LOTW had come to town… Time to Party!

Bluey

3) Light Of The World - London Town (12" version) (4.28)

80s Jazz-Funk Tempo (102 BPM)

This single was taken from the "Round Trip" album, the producer of this single and the whole album was Augie Johnson, an L.A based founder member of the vocal group ‘Side Effect’ he also produced the L.A Boppers. Plus other artists on the American west coast "Fantasy" Records label.

Augie presented the concept for this song by saying, "Wouldn’t it be cool for Light of the World to write a song about London". The music came quite easily, however, the inspiration for the lyric took time to develop. It came about one night at Gee Bello’s flat in Tottenham, on the back of a cereal packet! Up until this point, band members had submitted various lyrics but the final version was put to bed by Gee. The lyric and melody is still today one of the most famous love songs dedicated to the City of London; the mood is mellow and relaxed with the vibes and trumpet combining together to prove the perfect backing to the clever lyrics.

4) Light Of The World - I Shot The Sheriff (12" version) (6.00)

80s Jazz-Funk (123 BPM)

I Shot The Sheriff, taken from the Round Trip Album. Sung by Nat Augustin, written by Bob Marley. ‘I Shot The Sheriff’ was also covered by Eric Clapton and was a massive worldwide hit. Due to the song being instantly recognizable, Augie Johnson suggested LOTW re-worked this song in the studio and come up with a dance floor version. His instincts proved to be correct since the LOTW version provide the bands first hit single from their second album,

5) Light Of The World - I’m So Happy (12" version) (4.20)

80s Soul Ballad (70 BPM)

This track almost didn’t make it onto the album. Earmarked originally for Breeze to sing, Augie Johnson the (producer), however, suggested that it was perfect platform to feature Gee Bello’s soulful voice. George Del Barrio’s lushious 24-piece orchestra adds to the sound and sensitivity. "I’m So Happy" was featured on a "double A" sided single with "Time", taken from the "Round Trip" album. A rare moment of grace and a dreamy balled with a delicate lyric; it continues to be one of the fan’s favorite songs.

6) Light Of The World - Pete’s Crusade (12" version) (4.08)

Jazz Funk Instrumental (120 BPM)

Peter (Bunchy) Hind’s tribute to the Crusaders. The quiet man of the band, Forced along by the incredible rhythm section of Mel Gaynor drums and the Maestro Paul "Tubbs" Williams on bass. Wayne Henderson guests on trombone and gave the solo. Also featured under the horn section ‘Be Bop Orchestra’ are Stan "Be Bop" Martin, Steve Madio, John "Iron Lips" Ervin and Chuck "The German’" Brook, Bob " The Professor" Greaves. Additional keyboards by Bobby Lyle (this track is one of LOTW’s greatest Jazz Funk moments).

7) Light Of The World - The Boys In Blue (12" version) (5.10)

80s Brit-funk Dance (128 BPM)

"Boys in Blue" explodes into life with a burst of brass that it was hoped EW&F would have been proud of. Relentless Brass Construction-style rhythm. A song about the good old "Boys in Blue" and their tendency to arrest young Black youths who don’t seem to be doing anything particularly purposeful. Circa 1980 tensions in the ethnic communities were beginning to boil over. This was the beginning of a new attitude known as British Funk. Out of this new attitude this track was produced and penned by all members of the band, a huge dance floor hit only to be excluded national airplay by the BBC due to its (then) controversial content.

8) Light Of The World - Time (12" remix) (10.59)

80s Jazz-funk (125 BPM)

When the band first played at Hammersmith Odeon in London it was as support to, "The Players Association" Their hit song was " Turn The Music Up" it was our first major gig so we were all extremely excited. Our intention was to play our set and hopefully receive a warm welcome, but it was clear by the second number that the audience was totally into the band, the crowd was going crazy, after that they just couldn’t get enough, we left the stage after many encores with the whole of the venue on its feet.

The Players Association came on stage to do their set and died, not because they were crap but because they turned up unrehearsed. They even had sheet music on stands; this did little to impress the crowd. The audience began leaving. The message was clear, no longer could an Amercan act come to the UK with the belief that what ever they played would automatically be better than what the Brits had to offer, British Funk had arrived with a fresh new funky sound and LOTW were the trail blaziers. Our "Time" had come and no one could stop us. The memory of that night has since gone inrto UK folklore. Taken from the Round Trip Album, remixed by Steve Brown.

9) Light Of The World - Famous Faces (12" version) (5.41)

80s Jazz-Funk (115 BPM)

Produced by British born Nigel Martinez, originally titled "Scenes Behind Scenes" Nigel really helped pull this song together, he came up with a new chorus line, which gave the title "Famous Faces" This was the first collaboration and the start of the "Check Us Out" album.

We began this track with confidence and gave a huge heralding horn intro, it quickly settles back into a tight groove followed by an amazing modulation that elevates and lifts the song into a new key. Nigel was living in L.A with his wife singer Josie James. Of the (George Duke Band) Nigel was very much into American recording techniques, which he employed on this session. It was a fantastic to work with such a multi talent person.

10) Light Of The World - No.1 Girl (Edited 12" version) (3.25)

80s Classic Two Step Soul (89 BPM)

Driving through Bristol on our way to Rockfield studio’s in Monmouth for a week-long writing session to work on ideas for the "Check Us out album", when we drove past a theatre, someone shouted stop the van! We all looked out of the windows and saw on the theatre board, "Marvin Gaye Live Tonight". We were massive Marvin fans and couldn’t belive that this legend was actually appearing, so we pulled over and went in to the foyer to buy tickets. However the concert had begun and strangely no one asked us for a ticket, so we just walked right in. Marvin was absolutely mesmerizing. When the show had ended we all felt totally inspired and in awe of such a creative genius. When we got to our own writing session we somehow drew on this, and tapped into the sensitivity of the evening. "No.1 Girl", is based on the romantic concept of eternal love, sensuality, sexuality and beautifully produced by Nigel Martinez.

11) Light Of The World – Everybody Move (Edited Album version) (4.74)

80s Jazz-Funk (113 BPM)

Kool & The Gang influenced track with an outstanding contribution from the British trumpeting legend Derek Watkins. The whole song just grows out of Tubb’s bass line and is completed by the collective LOTW, vocal/percussion ensemble. We were doing it all just for fun and laughs, possibly the fastest song LOTW ever wrote. Keep Your Body Moving!

12) Light Of The World - Ride The Love Train (Edited 12" version) (4.25)

80s Jazz-Funk (117 BPM)

Given that the band had divided into 3, for Nat & Gee, it really was sink or swim; necessity was the mother of invention. Thank god for EMI "Ride The Love Train" was a top 40-chart entry. This song was the first hit that Gee & Nat wrote and produced. Within a week of this record being released Dave Ambrose our A&R man, exercised an option to commission the "Check Us Out" album. However with all the excitement of our new success, we forgot to actually include the track on the album. Doh! So here is another chance to hear it again!

13) Light Of The World - Keep The Dream Alive (7" version) (3.58)

90s Soul Funk (116 BPM)

A chance meeting with Simon Law of Soul II Soul at Livingstone Studios in north London, led to this track being recorded. Simon presented the music track as a demo to the band Kenny Wellington felt the inspiration to pen the lyric, lead vocal by Nat Augustin. The song features the actual speeches of the people’s prophet Dr.Martin Luther King. After many years of talking about doing a song with all the original members this was one of the rare times in the LOTW history that united the whole band (albeit briefly).

14) Light Of The World - One Destination (12" version) (5.53)

90s Soul Funk (96 BPM)

After a long hiatus the band were offered some studio time by Ken Grumbaum of Cool Tempo Records, a division of Chrysalis. Bluey became a catalyst for this recording, and for a short while, it looked as if he would rejoin the band but just before the track was finished Giles Peterson of Talkin Loud offered him a deal to re-start Incogognito project, he co wrote the song with Kenny & Gee. Recorded and produced the song his small basement studio on the Holloway Road, further over dubs and the were done at Round House Studios in Camden Town.

15) Light of the World - Feel The Real (4.57)

Funky Soul (130 BPM)

(Canadian Funker) David Bendeth wrote ‘Feel The Real’ he was a fellow artist signed to Ensign Records, at the same time as LOTW. Funnily enough LOTW recorded with David Bendeth a song, which was never released. But today LOTW re-recorded ‘Feel The Real’ with the emphasis being a Soul Funk vibe.

16) Light of the World - Ft Alexander O’Neal - Walk Don’t Run (4.07)

Funk-Soul (121 BPM)

Thought the recording history of LOTW, we have made it a custom to invite international artists to the recording studio. Alexander O’Neal had always been one of the artists that the band, have always wanted to make a record with. He is widely acknowledged as a true soul legend since he began to visit England in the mid 80s, the British public has taken him to heart. The song that he performs with us here began life in 1987 with song writing session with Gee and Scott English and eventually got finished in 2005 with the help from Nat, Gee, Alex, Mel, The lyrics are a father to son conversation with the musical direction leaning towards the Temptations "Papa Was A Rolling Stone". Recorded at Natty & Slaps Studio Kilburn and Town House Studios Shepherds Bush and mixed by Nat Augustin, Mel Gaynor and Gee Bello.

LIGHT OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATED PROJECTS & RARITIES

1) Beggar & Co. - Somebody Help Me Out (12" version) (7.25)

80s Brit-Funk (117 BPM)

Led by Breeze, Kenny, Baps." Somebody Help Me Out" some say was the biggest hit that LOTW never had. Given that the Incognito project was so successful, the guys began a spin off project of their own, Beggar & Co was commissioned and went into over drive and cut this track with gusto, they finished up, then took the song over to Chris Hill at Ensign Records. He absolutely loved what he heard and pulled in Barry Blue, the Producer of (Heatwave) to complete the mix. Officially released( ) Top Of The Pops appearances saw the band dress as beggars. Dressing-up was out, dressing -down was in.

2) Incognito - Parisienne Girl (12" version) (5.45)

80s Jazz-Funk (126 BPM)

"When our young brother Chris Etienne died in a road accident I left LOTW in an attempt to nurture my spiritual side and raise a family. I soon realised that music was an essential part of that journey, so I got together with Tubbs who though several years younger than me had become my musical mentor to form Incognito. The Incognito project was realised to go beyond the boundaries of a band and include musicians from other bands and the blossoming London musical community. "Parisienne Girl" was not only our first single; it was in fact our first jam session.

Bluey

3) Incognito - Shine On Original (Album version) (5.01) (Ensign)

80s Jazz-Funk (130 BPM)

Soon after the success of "Parisienne Girl" with the blessing of Chris Hill and Nigel Grainge at Ensign we went into the studio to record the album "Jazz Funk". Our experiment into Jazz led to a more instrumental approach and "Shine On" was typical of the sound that we created, a sound that would soon become our calling card and create a platform for many musicians on the scene.

Bluey

4) Spandau Ballet - Chant No.1 (12" version) (5.52)

80s Pop-Funk (120 BPM

80s Pop-Funk (130 BPM) In 1981 Spandau Ballet & LOTW were two London bands at the forefront of what appeared to be two opposing musical genres – one from the world of white rock, the other, pure Brit Funk, and as far as the experts were concerned, never the twain shall meet. But SB were secretly old Soul Boys and what both bands had in common were sweaty nights at various London soul clubs during the late 70’s, dancing our shoes out to US imports. I had a song that took us back to our roots, and during a chance meeting at Top Of The Pops decided that I’d love to join forces with Britain’s answer to the Earth Wind And Fire horn section. People may have forgotten how wild that was - what feels subversive one day can often appear commonplace the next - but let me tell you, in 1981 when Spandau Ballet and LOTW’s Beggar & Co. combined forces, all heads turned – and mostly to the dance floor.

Gary Kemp, London, 2005

5) The Team - Wicki Wacky House Party - 12" Version

80s Funk Floor Filler Tempo

IT BLEW THE HOUSE APART AT CAISTER – 1985’s HOTTEST JAM SESSION FROM THE ASHES OF LIGHT OF THE WORLD, BEGGAR & CO AND INCOGNITO!

And this was just the sticker on the 12! The concept for this record was to cover two songs separately" Wicki Wacky" by the Fatback Band and Fred Wesley’s" House Party" During the session, we ran both songs back to back, somehow purely by accident we arrived at a point where it seemed perfectly natural for both songs to become one and that exactly what happened. We took the song to Ian Dewhirst at EMI Club Promotion he pressed up some white labels then took them to Caister Soul Weekender. It blew the house apart. In fact, it actually was a national chart hit reaching no. 55. The Team assembled for this record was Gee, Mel Tubbs, Don Dish Doobay, Breeze, Baps, Paul Spong, Rick Taylor, Stacy Selsdon. Mixed at Maison Rouge by the Blood Suckulas.

6) The Team - We Are The Team (7" version) (3.42)

80s Funk (118 BPM)

When the opportunity came around for us to record together again we all were totally enthusiastic. "We Are The Team" co-written by Gee Bello & Ian Dewhirst. Tubbs on bass & lead vocal leads the team anthem backed by the whole squad. Again It’s just for fun. The Team assembled for this record was Gee, Trevor Morell, Tubbs, Don Dish Doobay, Breeze, Danny Cummings, Baps, Paul Spong, Rick Taylor, Jaye Williams, Stacy Selsdon. Phil Ramacon, Recorded & Mixed at Marcus Studio’s by Nick Blundell & Gee Bello.

7) The Team - Rock Creek Park (12" version) (7.32)

80s Funk (111 BPM)

The Black Byrd’s have always been a favorite band of ours, "Rock Creek Park", is one of their greatest tunes. Our cover version was originally featured on the B-side of," We Are The Team" The female guest vocalist is the American born (Helena Springs), with the trumpet solo by (Paul Spong) The Team assembled for this record was Gee, Trevor Morell, Tubbs, Don Dish Doobay, Breeze, Danny Cummings, Baps, Paul Spong, Rick Taylor, Jaye Williams, Stacy Selsdon. Phil Ramacon, Recorded & Mixed at Marcus Studio’s by Engineer Nick Blundell & Producer Gee Bello.

8) Jaye Williams - Twilight Zone (3.54)

80s Electro Soul Dance Tempo

Twilight Zone, a demo recording never previously released, a genuine rarity. Jaye Williamson, sister of jazz saxophonist Steve Williamson, a promising vocalist on the UK soul scene during the 80’s sounds strong on this track, Jaye had been singing back ground vocals on The Team sessions, when she was invited to sing this song. Keyboards Don Doobay, Programming Louis Jardin, Sax Baps Guitar Henry Defoe, Bvs Gee Bello, Jimmy Crawford, Jaye Williamson, Producer Gee Bello.

9) Mighty Seven - Push The Button (12" version) (6.05)

80s Electro Soul (123 BPM)

Dee C Lee was earmarked to sing this song, but she jumped ship and joined The Style Council. Stacy Selsdon was singing backing vocals for the team stepped up to bat and saved the session, she was marvelous. It’s1984 technology is changing the way we make music. The big track of the day is, Herbie Hancock’s "Rocket" everything was changing from analog to digital. I got hold of what was then the best keyboard on the planet called a Fairlight, which basically is a high-resolution digital sampler and got to record this track with help from keyboard player Phil Ramacon. EMI put the track out on limited release.

10) Gee Bello - Save Your Love (album version featuring Ronnie Laws) (5.49)

80s Soul (115 BPM)

In 1985 I had the great honor of being invited to Hollywood California to record a solo album for Capitol Records. Oliver Scott of the Gap Band wrote this song for me. Ronnie Laws has always been one of my jazz-funk hero’s is featured on sax. Whilst In LA I also met up with other legends of funk. I would like to thank Charlie Wilson, Sly Stone (you still owe me $200) George Clinton, and all great musicians that I was fortunate to meet. Taken from the solo album titled ‘Gee Bello’ for Capitol Records.

11) Gee Bello – Let Me Love You (3.51)

80s Soul (57 BPM)

Mel Gaynor independently produced this song. I think this one of his best music productions to date. The track was recorded at Roundhouse studios in Camden Town. In ? Steve Alpert is featured on keyboards and synthesizers with the string arrangements by Chris Cameron and guitar by Gordon Gaynor.

12) Light of the World – Got To Get Your Own (6.33)

90s Funk (122 BPM)

One summer day back in? The band all met up at Garth Marshall’s studio in Swiss Cottage, we had dedicated this day to work on this song written by Ruben Wilson. Garth’s studio was set up to record mainly vocal overdubs for movies. However he agreed to work with as long as we worked what was available to us. Got To Get Your Own" is the result of our practical endeavors with what came to hand. Originally released on a 4 track 12" ep titled "The Secret Masters" on our own in house label" Bonafide Discs".

13) The Team - Breaking Bread Featuring Greg Brown (3.33)

90s Funk (122 BPM)

We had some time left over in the studio we were just having some fun listening to this old recording of "Breaking Bread" by Fred Wesley, with Greg rapping in his American accent, the next thing I remember, was everyone picking up their instruments and the engineer pressing record and we cut this track. Greg Brown is the featured vocalist on this track. He came to live in London from America he is a bass player and vocalist / actor. It’s a real rarity and played in the true spirit of fun. The Team assembled for this record was Gee, Mel Tubbs, Don Dish Doobay, Breeze, Baps, Pete Toms, Gordon Gaynor, Jimmy Crawford, and Martin Freeland. Mixed at Soho Studios by the Blood Suckulas Producer Gee Bello.

LIGHT OF THE WORLD APPEAR AT SOULTRAIN MAY 4

VENUE Panache Bristol *

Admission £10 in advance buy tickets on line at www.soultrain.co.uk or Bristol Tickets

CONTACT info@soultrain.co.uk

Tasha Jones Live this Thursday @ the Dukester's!!

FlyerSWSTashaJones.jpg picture by shadesofj

"eruption in movement/ expressed in the breast of passion/ secluded in sound, dancing on dead trees/ amplified through the printed word/ I am color, royalty/ amassed upon acres of sovereign land/ toasted gently by the sun/ with a honey suckle almond scent/ I am the wind of thought/ perusing the mental/ driving clouds of consciousness/ reigning rebel music/ I am the content in the continent/ bellowing righteous sages/ uncovering falsity, leaving politicians/ weeping"... I AM ...Tasha Jones!!

April, 17 2008 at The Dukester Jazz Supper Club
7733 Reading Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45237
Cost :$10.00

The Hustle Bus Stop

Troop

' The Hustle bus stop ' Friday 25th of April @Sak's Underground Club, 23-24 Clifftown Road, Southend On Sea, Essex, SS1 1AB..
10-00pm til 2am. Bar open upstairs for early drinks DJ's :
Guest DJ Gavin Page with residents Marky Mark - Soul master T and the hugster .
70's - 2k's soul - jazz - boogie - club classics and upfront grooves! £5 entry 30 secs from South End central station!
Dress ; Smart / Casual * VODKA - REDBULL PROMOTION *

The GiKu Experience Presents Afro Blue :: Tomorrow Night!!!

AfroBlue:

Launch party for Tillman's newest sexy & fly soulful house and world rhythms soiree.....

Music by Giant Step Jukebox DJ/Producer/Re-Mixer Gibril Kuyateh of The GiKu Experience

--for the grown, sexy, and fly
--trust that there will be plenty of beautiful ladies and guys

ps... if you can’t make it, there will be a live stream for you to listen to over the net. blessings, gk ’The Music Revolution Has Begun’ Abstract Jazz, Soulful House Brooklyn Style, Minimal, Rhythms from lands far away, Drum & Bass, Broken Beat, Exclusives, Unreleased Tracks, and a whole lot of dancing.

http://www.tillmansnyc.com

About The GiKu Experience:::

The GiKu Experience (Exclusively on Giant Step Jukebox) is an eclectic arrangement of carefully selected pieces from hand picked artists, thats created to transport the savvy ear to a musical soundscape.
Each session evokes a different emotion and journey, but always drawing you in to an experience via Deep Soulful House, Left Field Jazz, Abstract Minimalism, Rare Vintage Funk, Classical Masterpieces, Never Heard Before Gems and Raw/Jazzy HipHop with that circa early 90's flow.

The exciting shows encompasses original productions, re-mixes (or re-experiences as i call them), rare and exclusives cookies (cookies are a musical treat that warms the soul), interviews (music movers and shakers), and showcase up and coming artist (or future stars) that have been handpicked due to their original sound. Its gaining quite the buzz and receiving support from some of the biggest influencer's in the industry.

COMING THURSDAY, APRIL 24th:

LIBATION
2ND ANNIVERSARY EVENT!!!

w/PEVEN EVERETT & His Band, Seance Divine
LIVE IN CONCERT!!!

JEREMIAH presents BELIEVE

Dear Jeremiah Supporters and Fans,

We want to invite you to a very special evening with Jeremiah. We want you to dare to believe in change and the greatness of music with Jeremiah at Joe's Pub on May 16, 2008. In anticipation of his sophomore album, Jeremiah will be performing many new songs with a new band and a wonderful new sound. Come and enjoy Jeremiah classic songs like Get Away and your new favorite, Obsession (Can't Get You Off My Mind).

As passionate as he is about his music, he is equally as passionate about the hope that Barack Obama exudes. This evening is co-sponsored by Harlem4Obama. A portion of the proceeds for the evening will be donated to the Barack Obama national campaign.

We look forward to seeing you there; your amazing spirits and energy.

Dare to Believe!!!!!

Joe's Pub
425 Lafayette Ave
May 16, 2008
9pm

$20 in advance/$25 at the door

http://www.joespub.com/component/option,com_shows/task,view/Itemid,40/id,3839
www.jeremiahonline.com
www.myspace.com/experiencejeremiah
www.harlem4obama.com

Wednesday, April 09, 2008

MIHE Presents: "WHAT'S HAPPENIN'?"

Monday, April 7th, 2008

WHAT'S HAPPENIN'?

Hey folks,

Welcome to our new look newsletter. We hope you enjoy!

There's a lot happenin' in the world of Make It Happen Entertainment. In addition to this newsletter, our other newsletter, "Cultural Aspects" will also return. CA is a great opportunity to for you to advertise to our 7000 + subscribers...WORLDWIDE! If you would like more info on advertising with us, shoot us an email at: miheads@gmail.com

Of course, our support of independent Soul artists is happenin' through our many events and The ISB Radio Show! (Make sure you tune in!)

Hey, don't forget, it's your favorite DJ's B'Day month, so come out and celebrate with him!

LISTEN TO THE ISB RADIO SHOW!!!

For the best in Soul Music that mainstream radio ignores, check out the ISB Radio Show every Saturday and Sunday at 1pm E.S.T. on www.RhythmAndSoulRadio.com. Hosted by "Your Favorite DJ", DAN C.E.!!! (Just click on the turntable on the day and time for instant access to the show.)

This weekend, check out new music from Angela Johnson as well as music from Eric Roberson, TL Cross, Kev Blaze , Myoshi Marilla and many more!

Inquiries, comments and song requests can be left at: isbradio1@gmail.com

Soul/R&B artists, send your music to: mihemusic@gmail.com

GROOVEOLOGY!

Every Sunday at SIP Lounge, the GROOVEOLOGY all day music event is in full effect! With:

THE INDIE SOUL BRUNCH - 3 course brunch with unlimited Mimosas and Bloody Marys with unlimited Soul Music provided by DAN C.E.! 2pm-4am! The ISB Radio Show is recorded live from here 2pm-3:15pm!

THE ACOUSTIC SOUL LOUNGE - On the 3rd Sunday of of every month, come and check out your favorite indie Soul artists! Sunday, April 20th, Abby Dobson!

DAN C.E. and guest DJs spin eclectic tunes 'til the wee hours of Monday morning! (a.k.a. 4am!) Happy Hours at 5pm-7pm (w/Free Food!) and 2am-4am (You read that right!) Kitchen open 'til 4am!

SIP Lounge
998 Amsterdam Ave.
bet. 109th & 110th Sts.
Harlem, NYC
NO COVER!!!!

In This Issue

ISB RADIO

GROOVEOLOGY

OTHER WEEKLY EVENTS

MIHE WEEKLY EVENTS
mIHE

DJ DAN C.E. Spins Live every Thusday at Melba's Restaurant. 8pm-12am
MELB'A'S
300 W. 114th St.
& 8th Ave. (FD Blvd.)
Harlem, NYC
NO COVER!!!

SOULFUL SOUNDS: Extended Happy Hour at Ashford and Simpson's Sugar Bar!
2 For 1 Drinks!
Free Chicken Wings!
$15 Pitchers Of Watermelon Sangria!
5pm-8pm
(Free Chicken Wings 5pm-7pm. Happy Hour Prices at the bar only.)
Contemporary and Classic Soul Tunes provided by
DAN C.E.
Ashford & Simpson's
SUGAR BAR
254 W. 72nd St.
bet. B'way and W.E.A.
Upper West Side
NYC
NO COVER!!!

Make It Happen Entertainment Inc.
Info: mihemusic@gmail.com

Manchildblack Live @ Joe's Pub, NYC :: 5/5

PICK UP TICKETS AT JOESPUB.COM
ALSO VISIT MANCHILDBLACK ON-LINE

Manchildblack celebrates the release of the highly anticipated "My Mind's I" EP, a follow-up to his "Awake In A Dream" EP released on the legendary label, West End Records. Manchildblack’s "My Mind's I" EP features a collection of incredible soul music full of passion, truth, and love.

Making his Joe’s Pub debut, Manchildblack will perform brand new material from this EP, as well as the acclaimed "Rain", "To The Sky" and much more!

With special guest DJ Ian Friday (Tea Party Music, Libation)!!!

JOE'S PUB at The Public Theater at 425 Lafayette St.
TICKETS: 212-967-7555, joespub.com and in person at The Public Theater Box Office or Joe’s Pub
TABLE RESERVATIONS: 212-539-8778
Seating, as well as standing-room, is available only on a first-come, first-served basis for all shows without a dinner reservation.

The Artistic Order of 144k feat...Obalaye!!! @ This Thursday 4/10 @ SpokenWordSoul!

With great pleasure...SpokenWordsoul welcomes

The Artistic Order of 144k featuring Obalaye!

As a founding member of The Artistic Order of 144k,

Obalaye has set fire to microphones and stages across the country.

His voice is enough to command the room...

...but the message will quench the soul

This IS a MUST see!

All this and some of the best Soul Food in the Nati!

FlyerSWSObalaye.jpg picture by shadesofj

Thursday, 4/10/08

8pm ~ $5

The Dukester Jazz & Supper Club

7733 Reading Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45237

513.205.5201 - 513.761.0896

www.myspace.com/obalaye

www.myspace.com/spokenwordsoul

http://www.MySpace.com/SpokenWordSoul

Janine (Lady J) j_spokenwordsoul@yahoo.com

Jacque (Gifted) jackdebear@aol.com

Nu-Soul Newsletter: Lina, Amp Fiddler, Erykah Badu, Bilal, Craze, Underworld!

April 8, 2008

Nu-Soul Newsletter

In This Issue

Fusion: A NextAid Benefit

Amp Fiddler

Lina

Erykah Badu

Craze

Winter Sessions

Underworld

Rhythm Section

WORTH Benefit

Bilal

Om Soul

Russell Taylor & Lina

Quick Links

Nu-Soul Homepage

Nu-Soul on Myspace

Nu-Soul on Facebook

Nu-Soul Musings - The Blog

Nu-Soul Fashions

Nu-Soul Music Store

Nu-Soul Interviews

Nu-Soul CD Reviews

Our Friends

Please check out these quality sites

Greetings!

We are back from the Winter Music Conference and ready to roll! We'll have pictures from all the insanity next week. In the meantime prepare for our special NextAid Benefit FUSION this Saturday April 12. We'll have live performances from Om Records' Samantha James and Black Spade!!!

Check out the quality interviews we have for you with Amp Fiddler and Lina.

We have a bunch of reviews this week including Erykah Badu, Craze, and Underworld.

We've got lots of event photos from the past few weeks and some upcoming events to add to your calendar featuring Vikter Duplaix, Russell Taylor and Lina!

And don't forget to check out our sponsors, friends, buy a t-shirt, and support Nu-Soul artists through Amazon, Itunes, Beatport & Mobile Underground. All our articles have links to purchase music so SUPPORT INDEPENDENT ARTISTS!!!

The next edition of Strictly Social is on its way on April 30th. We'll be having a special showcase of Moodstar Recordings artists, a listening party for Swedish soul sensation Kissey Asplund, and we'll be celebrating my 30th birthday!!! Stay tuned!

Norman Mayers
Editor-in-Chief
Nu-Soul

Special Event: Fusion - A NextAid Benefit w/ Samantha James Live & Black Spade - Saturday April 12

fusion

Get the details on the special benefit

New Interview: Amp Fiddler

The Detroit native is inadvertently "doing battle" with the release of Afro Strut, delving into love, life and the simple things that you just can't get off of your mind.

Read the interview by Regine Zamor

New Interview: Lina

Lina is the rare artist that channels the spirit and vibe of a bygone era. Effortlessly merging the vocal style of jazz standards and 1920s swing with a modern production style, Lina has a sound that is all her own. Lina's third album, the positive and effervescent Morning Star, is equals parts vintage and modern, giving fans more of her timeless and unique sound.

Read the interview by Norman Mayers

New Review: Erykah Badu
Album: New Amerykah Part One
Genre: Soul/Hip-Hop/Electronica

New Review: Craze
Title: Fabriclive.38
Genre: Hip-Hop/Electronica/Breakbeat

New Review: Hipp-E & Style of Eye
Title: Winter Sessions Vol. 2
Genre: House/Electronica

New Review: Underworld
Title: Oblivion With Bells
Genre: Electronica/Ambient/Experimental