A Note from DDT Entertainment

MARCUS H. MITCHELL - "GO MARCUS" GUESS WHO WON MARCUS' DANCE CONTEST? PHOTOGRAPHY BY - DONNA T. STATON

A Message From Gary Taylor GARY SINGS "DO YOU KNOW" It's great to be working with a promoter who really loves and understands what she is doing. DDT Entertainment is run by a young, attractive "Woman of Color" (you already know how I feel about Women of Color). She asked me to do one thing in our approach to doing a LIVE date in Fayettville, NC, "Trust Her". As apprehensive as I can be sometimes, I decided to give it a try. Still this was Fayettville, NC. "Woman of Color" was a huge song here because of a radio programmer named Garret Davis, who was working at WUKS 107.7 FM at the time of the song's release. As I was told (by the owner of The Ambiance Entertainment Center), the song is still getting played in recurrent play today. DDT Entertainment put a promotion wheel into motion I had never seen the likes of. Not even when I was with A&M or Virgin Records, and these companies are considered Majors. It must feel good when your reputation as a promoter is so good that radio stations and papers and T.V. (yes. there was even a television add put into motion) are calling to be a part of your event. My thinking was "Are there any people in Fayetteville?" Well as many uninformed city folk (me included) think about small southern towns, I had a lot to learn. FortBragg army base (the largest on the East Coast has over 100,000) has a captive, music loving crowd that love to get out to LIVE shows every weekend. This past weekend had shows going down on Thursday, Friday, and Marcus Mitchell and myself on Saturday, and all 3 shows had there own crowd. There's also FayettevilleStateUniversity. A very large Historically Black University, with an extremely sophisticated campus full of intelligent, progressive African Americans (not failing to mention the home of WFSS 91.9 FM. a very high profile Jazz station). Pretty much all of the HBCU's down in South have there own radio stations. Maybe that's why music down here is so rich, and true to Black culture. Wake up big city radio! The hour came faster than I thought it would and I could hear the crowd going crazy during the Marcus Mitchell show. I was thinking, "How am I going to match that energy?" My time came and as I was taking to the stage my mind was saying do any of these people know who I am. The applause was loud, and there was screaming from women (my audiences' are about 80% female). As I took the stage I could see tables with 6 here, and 5 over there; Women of Color who came out to hear love songs. They were all smiling and talking to me between songs. The men got in on the action. The next thing I knew people were standing next to their tables slow dancing and swaying to the music. I had only seen things like this in the movies, stories about southern nightclub life. My band (WaWa LeGrand-guitar, Blues Webb-Drums, Rick Watts-Bass, Benjie Porecki- Keyboards, and Shang- background vocals) was killing it. The crowd was shouting out and talking to them as they did solo's which only made them play even better. I have Debra at DDT Entertainment to thank for this band. She had worked with the Musical Director, WaWa many times before and this group of musicians just loved her. I have to say, I've been doing this music thing for over 28 years and I've never seen this kind of love and closeness between musicians and promoters. My night closed with me singing "Lovin My People" (my personal Black National Anthem). Every one was up out of their seat partying like it was their job. It was the wildest I have ever seen. A line formed, and people started doing the Electric Slide. I was feeling so good I didn't want to leave the stage. After the show I was signing CD's and T-Shirts for people. I've never met a more gracias crowd. There were those who had all of my past CD's and were buying the new one's. One fan came up and asked, "f I would sign something special for him"; he handed me a copy of my "Compassion" album in vinyl format. So much for wondering if the people of Fayettville, NC knew who I was. This was truly one of the best LIVE shows I ever experienced, and I have Debra and DDT Entertainment to thank for this "Smooth Summer Night" of magic. B.B. Kings New York, October 12th, 2008, get ready! Stay Blessed G. "Blackness" .

Cherry Bomb's the Rage and Bloom is Buzzing.....

- Vol 1, Issue 1

In This Issue POLITICS AS USUAL WAYNA HESTON APRIL HILL BROOKLYN ACADEMY REEL PEOPLE OWN YOUR POWER Friendly Links CHERRY BOMB NICHOLAS PAYTON APRIL HILL JAGUAR SKILLS OWN YOUR POWER SAM THE KID HESTON THE BLOOM BLOG KARINA NISTAL DROM DRED SCOTT TRIO REEL PEOPLE STRICTLY SOCIAL SHANTELL MARTIN INDEPENDENT MUSIC AWARDS BROOKLYN ACADEMY INTERNATIONAL SOUL SUMMIT MIZ METRO WAYNA		Friends and Fam I'm still on a high from the Cherry Bomb NY book party. It was packed to the gills at The Beauty Bar-- I don't think another body could have fit and the line was down the street before doors opened. You'd think it was a record release, a film premiere or some A list celeb event. Bravo to author Carrie Borzillo-Vrenna. I can only imagine it every author's dream to come close to replicating an event like that... Cherry Bomb danced off the shelves and people were lining up to get their copy autographed. Well done! I think I've fallen in love with books again! Any authors, journalists, writers-- please get at me when you're ready. I'm eager to do it again!! I have the bug!!! Shouts to Village Slum. Photos are up now and you can read my Blog for the wrap up and other shout outs! I must also say--- Fall, 2009- I will be published too -- stay tuned! In other news- my BLOOM BLOG caught fire and heat today when I posted Jazz Trumpeter Nicholas Payton's entry ' Why I Hate Jazz'. Oh boy- some pandemonium here but I must say his take is quite hilarious. I'm loving the fact I have diverse and talented artists contributing to The Bloom Blog. It is indeed a blessing. Nicholas Payton. Miz Metro. Elida from Dirty Fuzz. Dred Scott. Kissey Asplund. Will have a couple announcements of note concerning my blog coming soon so stay tuned. RSS me- Feed me!!! Subscribe to me baby! POLITICS AS USUAL This uptown mixer will be dope as musical soundtrack is provided by my friends at Digiwaxx. Yes- they've finally got me sponsoring one of their mixers!!! Thanks to Nue Agency who's produced this event and partnered us all together to bring you a fabulous time of networking, listening to hot music provided by ENUFF and having tasty treats and loads of drinks. Well, we are after all kicking off a Labour Day weekend. So come mix with us. Covo Tratoria 701 W. 135th St and 12th Ave- 7PM-Midnight....

WAYNA

This D.C girl is going to bless the mic and stage at the Highline Ballroom this Thursday so NY get ready if you aren't familiar with Wayna. I became familiar after hosting a Nu-Soul Series show at Franks Lounge a couple months ago- Dare I say- I was impressed - so much so- that we'll be collaborating together in the near future. Wayna has just released her 2nd album called 'Higher Ground'. Her debut is called 'Moments of Clarity'. I suggest you buy both! They're great... Come to Highline Ballroom- Wayna is opening for Les Nubians. This will be a treat.. Wayna will also be performing in Atlanta for Strictly Social - Friday, September 12th.

HESTON

Reviews are starting to pour in for 'Storyteller'-- Heston's long awaited debut release and boy it was certainly worth the wait--- The general feedback is pretty much consistent and in agreement saying it's a brilliant first release with some amazing arrangements, beautiful vocals and stellar songwriting. You know-- i haven't seen Heston live yet-- can't wait for that day but from I hear from everyone-- he's an amazing live performer. Heston has the full package... He's in St. Louis this Thursday, August 28th at Napps Vibe Lounge. He was supposed to do an outdoor concert in Birmingham over the weekend but the place got rained out due to the Hurricane. Oh that thing! Birmingham will be re-scheduled! Heston's album is #1 at Soultracks with regards to sales as compiled by CD Baby, Amazon and some other retailers. He's up for 2 noms.....Best Male Vocalist and Best New Artist. Voting deadline today. Soultracks Readers Choice Awards take place at Max M Fisher Music Hall on October 3rd in Detroit and yes-- I will be there... If you haven't heard 'Storyteller'- you need to! Soulchoonz

APRIL HILL

You've been hearing her name a lot over the past few months and it' s just the beginning. No more 'Who is April Hill'. Her debut album 'Love 360' has been receiving accolades from wide and far. ..We congratulate her on the 'Best New Artist' nod. She'll be in Detroit... Her single 'Wanna Be Free' has been floating around the air-waves for a few weeks now and charted on Top 40 on Urban AC. Her gig at The Blue Note last Friday was incredible! She performed to a packed house and her musicians were on fire and she was entertaining, delightful vocally and eased into all the songs like a natural! She also just performed with Fuzz Band in Norfolk. The reception was tremendous. We have a remix contest coming up and a ring back you're going to definitely want your hand set to have and a lot of major things in the works so stay tuned...

BROOKLYN ACADEMY

How excited am I to be repping for Brooklyn Academy and their long overdue and very anticipated debut release 'Bored of Education'. Talk about Full Circle! I go way back with these blokes. Back to 3-2-1 Records days when I put out this hot split single that still to this day is considered an 'Underground Classic'. Skeme Team featuring Non-Phixion and The Arsonists with the split single Pumpkinhead, Word a Mouth(Met and Block) yes- They're here- they never went anywhere but the studio, stayed busy and creatively have mixed and mashed up some incredible songs both musically and lyrically and the guests on this project are ridiculous. Keith Murray, what? Jean Grae, what? And the list goes on.... People- you need to be here at the celebration of their new endeavour- their DEBUT- for so many reasons I can't explain them all here but for the main one-- many many years in the makes and in the works and who says it's not true!! Good things really come to those who wait !! And now the wait is over.... I'm so happy for my boys!!! For Hip Hop we all need to be.....Brooklyn Academy is keeping Hip Hop very much alive in NY....Who says Hip Hop's Dead! Wednesday, September 3rd Southpaw 9PM Park Slope, BK-- where it all began!!!! They're also doing an in-store at Fat Beats the day before - September 2nd- 5PM-7PM

REEL PEOPLE

I got a lot of England in my life right now and this oh so makes me happy...My roots! All the way live from London is the funky soulful dance act- Reel People. Their 2nd album will see the light Stateside- as they ready the release of 'Seven Ways to Wonder'. Reel People spearheaded by Oli Lazurus of Papa Records fame... Oli will come over to NY for promo and guest DJ appearances sometime in September. There are 12 juicy tracks on the latest project and a few guests including Darien and Omar... In fact-- I can't stop listening to this album.. Also- a listening party for the 'Seven Ways to Wonder' at Frank's Lounge- Nu-Soul Series- Sept 20th...

OWN YOUR POWER

Treat yourself to a relaxing escape with like minds- It's the 2nd Annual OWN YOUR POWER RETREAT. Sept 26-27th at Miami Botanical Gardens This retreat promises to be an empowering weekend. You will enjoy personal development, business and natural healing workshops designed to broaden your vision and bring clarity. A total integration of Body, Mind and Spirit. Don't miss out.... Tables/booths selling out fast!!!! REGISTER NOW!!! Sadly- I won't be going down there but Simone Kelly tells me there will be an OWN YOUR POWER - NY next year!!!! So stay tuned!!!

I won't be down for Soul Summit but will be there in spirit....Strictly Social- Sept 12th at Djangos.... The line up is fierce! Shouts to Thomas Paul for interviewing me for Soultracks. The interview is live now and it's juicy and candid....Check it out. Soultracks I'm speaking at Baltimore Music Conference Sept 20th. Hit me up if you're headed down there. Shouts to everyone who's digging the blog- thanks for your feedback.... Hit me up on all my social media pages....Find me if you can!! I can't stop listening to Roy Hargrove's latest ' Earfood'. Especially 'Strasbourg/ St. Denis'. It's been in heavy rotation. I think I've listened to it 50 times... I just heard a sneak preview of 'Get it Together' - a new Maya Azucena song and it's so timely and it's hot! I'm headed to see Eric Rico this week-- I've heard nuff things about this bad boy! I'm also super excited about Nicholas Payton and the trio at Jazz Standard featuring Mark Whitfield and Christian McBride. Sept 3-7th. Jazz is back in my life- full circle and I'm happy to have these fine musicians around me. Lastly- it's not what you think -- It's what you DO! I'm about to do the DO! Sincerely, Fiona Bloom The Bloom Effect email: fiona@thebloomeffect.com

Vortex Outdoors - Sunday 28th September

Vortex Outdoors is a free outdoor event on as part of Open Rehearsal and the launch of the UK’s Cultural Olympiad.

VORTEX OUTDOORS
Sunday 28th September 2008

1pm – 7pm
Gillett Square, Dalston, London N16

Featuring dynamic artists:

Imaani, Zena Edwards, Tawiah, Abdul Shyllon
plus Andreya Triana, Ayanna Witter-Johnson, Baby Sol, Jnay, Sharleen Hector and BSIX 6th Form College Students.

website: http://www.vortexjazz.co.uk/

contact: info@vortexjazz.co.uk

Tel: 020 7993 3643

Jeremy James live this Sat. Aug. 30th, 9PM/$10 @ the Nuyorican Poets Cafe w/ poets: Nathan P. & Chance

Cisco - MGR, here to invite you to . . .
JEREMY JAMES
Acoustic Guitarist, Soul Singer and Song Writer
http://www.JeremyJamesMusic.net
http://www.youtube.com/user/CiscoIII
http://www.myspace.com/JeremyJamesMusicNet
http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/video/underground_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003583759
NEXT LIVE PERFORMANCE this Sat. Aug. 30th, 9pm/ $10 @ the Nuyorican Poets Cafe

SATURDAY, AUGUST 30TH
WHO:
Urbintel, Inc. presents:
WHAT:
“Verses”, a poetry/hip-hop event
hosted by Helena D. Lewis
(the award winning playwright)
&
music by DJ Buddha LuvJonz
featuring:
JEREMY JAMES

(acclaimed performing artist)
CHANCE
(of El Grito De Petas)
NATHAN P
(former Nuyo Slam Master and Slam Finalist)
WHERE:
NUYORICAN POETS CAFE
236 East 3rd Street
b/n Avenues B & C Lower East Side,
Manhattan 10009
516-569-9600
WHEN:
SATURDAY, AUGUST 30TH
TIME:
9PM
DAMAGE:
$10
urbintel.com
516-569-9600

Ed Jackson - Upcoming Gigs and CD release update news

Hello Friends,

I hope all is with you. I am back in Brazil just finishing up a few gigs. I also wanted to let you know that the release date for my new CD "Colors" has been delayed until September. However, I have decided that my CD release gig date will be Saturday, October 18 in NY. I now have to choose from one of 2 locations for the event. I will give you all the details soon.

In the meantime if you happen to be in the neighborhood I will be playing at a jazz festival with my quartet in Rio De Janeiro this Friday. (see details below) I hope to see you there.

Friday, August 29

Esch Festival de Jazz

Leblon, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Ed Jackson Quartet:

Ed Jackson- Alto,Soprano Saxophones and Flute

Octavio Garcia -Drums

Alberto Farah - Piano

Fernando Costa -Bass

Showtime 9:00 pm

Cover : R$ 40,00

For more information call:

(55) (21) 2512-5651

Ed Jackson

www.edjackson.com

email: edjackson@edjackson.com

Possibly The PARTY of The Year Early Warning!

EARLY WARNING OUR SECOND BIRTHDAY PARTY WILL ON SAT 27TH SEPT 2008 @ THE TROY BAR, 10 HOXTON SQUARE, N1 6NG 10PM - 4AM FREE FOR ALL B4 11PM £5 B4 2AM AND THOSE WHO NEED TO MAKE A ENTRANCE ( why bother) £10 after 2AM

We have the pleasure of having Nu Soul / Hip Hop producer Eric Lau doing a guest DJ set, his ground breaking debut LP called New Territories is available at all good record shops (a must have in your collection!). All you regular CRATES attendees will be used to us playing joints from Eric's LP! We also have Soundspect taking it straight to the dance floor repping the underground.

The night will consist of Nu Soul, Funk, Boogie, Hip Hop, Jazz, Rare Groove and Soulful Broken Beat, it's free before 11pm, £5 after and £10 after 2am (hope that makes sense lol!).
This will be a night of mature fun, happy faces and good ol funky music! People are still talking about our 1st birthday party last year.....we reckon this one is going to be better.....

www.myspace.com/cratesfam
www.myspace.com/ericlaumusic
www.myspace.com/soundspect

BLESS!!!!!!!

ALL ROADS LEAD TO LUCILLE'S AT 4460 SO. 3RD STREET, MEMPHIS, TN

http://sweetangel.org/calendar.html

Sunday, August 31st, 2008
Lucille's
4460 So. Third Street
Memphis, TN
901.246.7545
Price: No Cover

The Mark IV Social Set will make their annual visit to Memphis, TN.
Their hangout was Mike's Place and as Mike decided to do his hanging
out with Sweet Angel; their host this year will be Lucille's at 4460
So. Third Street. DON'T WORRY, Mike and Sweet Angel will be in the
house. As a matter of fact, SWEET ANGEL voted "BEST NEW SOUTHERN
SOUL FEMALE ARTIST FOR 2008" by Jus' Blues Music Awards will be
behind the "wheels of steel". OH YEAH! SWEET ANGEL IS ONE OF THE
HOTTEST DJs SPINNIN'. COME SEE FOR YOURSELF.

Doors Open at 5pm, NO COVER CHARGE, must be 21 years old

For more information call Lucille's at (901) 789-4194 or Mike
Dobbins at (901) 246-7545

Organix Promotions Featuring Angela Johnson & Friends

You Are Officially Invited to see/hear Angela Johnson feat. Tricia Angus & Lisala Beatty Organix Soul - August 23, 2008 For those unfamiliar with Angela Johnson, allow us to fill you in… Angela Johnson's most recent offering, A Woman’s Touch (2008 Purpose) is a single-producer project that furthers Angela’s evolution as an erudite production talent and continues a legacy of female musician/producers not seen since the pioneering days of Patrice Rushen and AngelaWinbush. Boasting the crème de la crème of soul and R&B, from Rahsaan Patterson and Eric Roberson to Maysa and Julie Dexter, A Woman’s Touch is more than an indie soul project, it is an industry event unseen since the timeless producer albums of Quincy Jones and Norman Conners. When considered alongside a body of work that includes two solo masterpieces and two highly-hailed group projects as the lead singer of the soul-funk band, Cooly’s Hot Box, Angela’s fifth studio release is a revealing testament to the time and commitment Angela has spent honing her multi-faceted skills to a spit-shined perfection. Definitely not the show that you would want to miss! Unfortunately due to cost increases, we were forced to go up on the ticket prices, we hope that those of you who have supported us for the last two years will continue to do so. If we could avoid this measure we would... THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT! Tickets: 15.00 in Advance / 20.00 at the Door online: www.organixsoul.com

Stephanie McKay

STEPHANIE MCKAY
AUGUST UPDATE

Just sending through a quick message of thanks to everyone for all of the messages of support that have been coming through in the last few weeks. Stephanie's album is flying off the shelves in the UK, and with the release coming across Europe, Australia and the States, there's a busy few months ahead! The album continues to receive glowing reviews including 'Album of the Week' in The Sunday Times, and this feature in New Nation.

Stephanie is back in the States now after her recent UK and Holland tour, and has just recorded a New York music special with Gilles Peterson for his BBC Radio 1 show. She'll be returning to Europe next month for a series of live dates in Holland, France and Italy, before heading to Australia to perform with Big Lovely at the Melbourne Arts Festival. Full details coming soon!


If you havent already picked up a copy of Stephanie's album, you can get the album and the limited edition 7-inch single of Jackson Avenue by clicking on the images below. You can also download the tracks as high quality 320kbs MP3 files by clicking here

Thanks for your continued support

--
Muthas Music Group
www.muthas.co.uk

Representing Amp Fiddler - Stephanie McKay - Bugz In The Attic - Morley - Drugs

SoundDoc Entertainment Drea Update: August 2008

SoundDoc Entertainment Drea Update August, 2008

Greeting friends! SoundDoc Entertainment is excited about Drea's solo career and the momentum she has behind her as a national independent artist. We are in the process of closing out the summer, and beginning to focus on our planning for 2009 year. You can expect the following: retail store stocking of Love Affair, an upcoming national tour (spring/summer '09), as well as potential dates abroad. We promise to keep you posted as usual. If you have any suggestions please feel free to send them in to info@sounddocentertainment.com.

Check in at Drea's Myspace page for upcoming promotions and surprises in 2008! Have you purchased your copy of Love Affair? If not, you can visit CD Baby at : http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/dreasounds To check out pics from Drea's most recent performances and other Drea events go to: http://www.myspace.com/sounddoc2

August Events August is full of activities for Drea. First up is The Rising Stars Showcase at Sputnik in Brooklyn, 262 Taaffe Place in Fort Greene. Save the date...Tuesday August 12, 2008, the doors open at 8 so you will want to get there early to get a seat. After performing last month we've been asked to return so this show is going to be on and poppin. This will be a live performance with Drea's hot Long Island band Christy Defeo on drums, Frank Scavone on bass, and Drea holding it down with keys. Drea is joining with friends, Paul Rivers Bailey, Dain Harris, and JimiJames...you won't want to miss this one! See you there. The next evening August 13th at 5:30 Drea will support her fellow artists Paul Rivers Bailey & Dain Harris at their ONUTSS (One Nation Under the Soul Shack) listening party. Go to http://www.onutss.com events for details. That night Drea will do it all again, performing at Ashford & Simpson's Sugar Bar NYC, 254 W. 72nd St. Doors open at 7, and show time is at 8 so make your reservations in advance (212)579-022. Bringing a close to the week SoundDoc Entertainment is glad to finally announce Drea's 1st Long Island performance at our event Soul Sounds, a soul/r&b independent artist showcase in our own backyard. The event will take place at Tula Kitchen, Drea's personal favorite L.I. spot. Drea will be joined by Dain Harris bringing wonderful sounds to you. An Atlanta native Dain Harris has shared the stage with artists such as India Arie, Kiete Young, Eric Roberson, Chrisette Michelle, and Anthony David. I know L.I. is going to help get the movement flowing. We will see you there Friday August 15th at 41 East Main St. in Bayshore, NY. The show starts at 9:30 and there isn't a cover so make sure you support both artists and purchase their CDs. Escaping New York for a few weeks Drea is performing in New Mexico with our friend Paul Rivers Bailey for two dates. Saturday August 23rd they will showcase their talents in Albuquerque, New Mexico at the Apple Store location is, 2240 Q St., in the mall. Please visit our website for additional details. Closing out August, Drea is thrilled to support fellow artist Paul Rivers Bailey opening up for soul legend Al Green Saturday August 30th at the Santa Fe Opera Theater. For tickets go to the theater's box office http://www.santafeopera.org. For information about SoundDoc Entertainment, booking Drea, and other upcoming events please check in at Myspace or at SoundDoc Entertainment's website: http://www.sounddocentertainment.com On behalf of SoundDoc Entertainment and Drea we would like to thank you for your continued support and well wishes! Tracy Lymus SoundDoc Entertainment tlymus@sounddocentertainment.comhttp://www.myspace.com/tlymus info@sounddocentertainment.com

Sweet Angel's Current Tour Schedule

http://sweetangel.org

Friday, August 15th, 2008
WASHINGTON COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER
http://www.rocksoulandblues.com/
The Delta Music Showcase 2008 - 7:00 pm
Greenville, MS
SPECIAL GUEST APPEARANCE BY SWEET ANGEL
(662) 403-0482
Price: General Admission $20.00


Saturday, September 27th, 2008 - 7:00 pm
BIRTHDAY EXTRAVAGANZA FOR MIKE DOBBINS AND JACKIE "THE MAIL LADY"
The Whitehaven Celebration Complex
3270 Elvis Presley Blvd.
Memphis, TN
ENTERTAINMENT BY ECKO RECORDS RECORDING ARTIST SWEET ANGEL [Winner of
the 2008 Jus' Blues Music Awards Best New Southern Soul Female Artist]
and THE SINGING DENTIST-DR. O. T. SYKES
(901) 246-7545
Admission:  $15.00 advance tickets on sale now at Rite 2 Ride on
Elvis Presley
$20.00 at door
Admission includes food and concert

THIS SATURDAY! Show in BK, BABY!

hi beautiful people!

Some of you may already have heard, but the Asian Hip Hop Summit is rollin' into town! I'm honored to participate this year - I'll be playing on Stage 2, reppin a full set with my amazing band. I hope to see you there!

SATURDAY, AUGUST 16th
@ Public Assembly (formerly Galapagos)
North Sixth Street, btwn Wyeth & Kent, Williamsburg BK!
Doors open at 8:30pm (I go on at 10:30pm)
Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 @ the door
http://theamclassics.eventbrite.com/

DC Popular Pages discuss state of Soul Music

Trash Talker or Truth Lover

Can you be Confident & Humble at the Same time?

http://www.brightestyoungthings.com/music/marcell-and-the-truth/

Family,

Marcell interviewed with a serious music connoisseur and a frequent face in the DC area Mr. Peter St. Laurent. Peter is a journalist for DC's brightestyoungthings.com. If you don't want it written down don't say it around Peter, lol! Marcell & Peter spent their time talking in historic Mt Vernon, Charles Village, and at a new hot spot Milton's Grill. The time flew as the Aries Men spoke with passion and honesty. Peter wasn't afraid to ask it & Marcell was quick to answer.

You name it - Peter asked it. Marcell tried to hide behind words in some of the question asked but was compelled to just be honest. If he were not so genuine in talking about what he does, Marcell's manner could be mistaken for arrogance. But if you've ever been in the battlefield of any arena or area in life, it becomes clear to you that Marcell really just holds a sober confidence. When Marcell was asked to respond to the interview posted above and below he shared a few words. (Wait, Marcell...a few words? He.)

"In the Bible some of Moses's family & friends pretty much asked God why he didn't talk to them directly like he talked to Moses. God (paraphrasing of course) basically told them - "...Oh it's simple because you can't handle the truth". They were angry he came to them in clouds only."God said listen when it comes to Moses I can say fix your clothes, deal with your marriage, change this or that, and 'great job keep it up' and he'll embrace me. The rest of you I have to come to you in books with nice covers - 8 steps to this or that, I have to say parables, write poems, and songs because your ego and insecurities make it hard for me to be genuine with you.

God spoke to Moses as a friend, wow, what else is there? Exodus 33:11 I want to be that kind of guy that God could say, "hey Marcell can we talk, I mean really talk?". So I try to keep my heart at a place to love the beauty of the REAL things. Many people hide behind a group, a church. a job, a organization etc... I know I have many times. Churches are great and often needed for encouragement to continue on the path God has laid out. BUT, I'm learning that a group of any kind that is like minded is a privileges NOT a "right". If you need a group to believe in what you know burns in your heart - you don't really believe it yet. I don't do music because I love it. Some days I want to quit. I do music because I believe God called me to do it and more specifically I believe God called me to do it: write, play, sing it the way I'm doing it. I am however always open to do the business aspect better. My confidence comes from God, not man - at least most of the time.

I've been told I'm humble because I don't brag on myself. Well, they may not exactly be true. I've been jokingly and sincerely talking trash for years, from sports to playing cards to hitting sales quotas to comedy battles around the way. There is one thing clear about me: I Want to Win . And in this music game I'm no different. I feel too many artist should simply go home and stop confusing the public on what a song is, a performance is, a show is and/or real passion looks like. People are not stupid they know when they look in your eyes if this is for you or not. They say I Intimidate people sometimes. I never intend for that to happen but I think its because my band (the Truth) and I take what we do very seriously. Sure M&TT jokes around probably more than most. But we are serious about taking care of our fans - people have to wait in long lines at a show, share dirty bathrooms, get someone to watch their children, plan for work the next day, work harder at work so they don't fall behind the next day, budget their week - all to come see you perform and if after all that your performance is nothing more than a Glorified Rehearsal, than to me you disrespected their money and time. But, when M&TT gets on stage, I want you too feel bad that you paid so little to come see us. Why? because you realized the Band & I gave all we had & left it all on stage for you."

In the article below a few people later asked Marcell about the comment he made in say he had no real competition in Soul music. It was asked what exactly he meant, his reply:

"My response was in jest as usual, but definitely with some sincere undertones. M&TT has done over 300 performances in the past 10 years (at least) and I can say I haven't seen many on levels we have been on so far, who take what they do more serious than M&TT. A few call us higher but most seem to do things half-hearted. My band - I love these guys. I'm surrounded by "Average" musicians that simply make extraordinary music. I'll take them everyday over extraordinary musicians that make average music. Our motto as a band - "One band one Sound"

Now as far as saying that I was bragging, this is how I feel about "Bragging"

If you say you have 5 children and If you have 5 children - it's the truth, it's not bragging, if you are happily married and you say it's true - it's probably not bragging but gratitude I'm sure. And likewise, if you are good at what you do tell the truth. False humility is often exposed when you are over-looked and not appreciated so if you have put in the time, appreciate yourself & your work, as much as you appreciate others. Sure, give God all the glory he is due but encourage yourself for the proper decisions you made. Arrogance to me is statements that are un-proven, un-tested & unfounded but confidence is tested over and over again. A guy says I'm a great fighter but has fought no one to me he's arrogant & very much out-of-touch (maybe crazy, lol), but a boxer says he's great and who has been in the ring with some of the best and proved it time and time again - He's confident - When he says he is probably going to win his next fight. He might have legitimate reason for that, lol"

People ask me? How can you be confident & humble at the same time, is it possible? Sure love the truth about yourself and others.

-Marcell of M&TT

www.marcellandthetruth.com

NOW,

that was cool, but let's see what Peter St. Laurent's had to say

http://www.brightestyoungthings.com/music/marcell-and-the-truth/

Back to Back at the Beautiful house of POSH! M&TT Performing 2 Nites at the gorgeous Supper Club Friday August 15th @ 7pm Saturday August 16th 2008 @ 8pm POSH Restaurant & Supper Club 730 11th St, NW Washington, DC 20001 Featured Performance: Marcell & the Truth Cost: No Cover just enjoy your meal The average cost per person - food & drinks is $30.00 For more information visit: www.poshdc.com

Wednesday Night was Cool...

Rock & Roll Hotel Performances

Tamu M&TT Sean McCardle Milk Machine

It was great performing at the Rock & Roll Hotel the other night. The other bands really stretched some of your minds huh? The brother Tamu was a one man show, representing classic hip-hop. You know the kind with no gimmicks & self-destruction. He just handed the DJ his CD and he was off & ready to give it to them. Sean McCardle & his band was more emotion than M&TT can you believe it. You never got used to Sean and his guys. The dynamics were off the change, they never let you get use to them and/or take them for granted. Now, Mlkmachine came out with marching band get-ups, nice! They had the floor filled with people dancing with only a trumpet player, tuba dude, lead singer on an accordion, and & drummer. It was cool and definitely different. But, as always we enjoyed representing the home town of Charm-City. Thanks guys for the chance to share the stage with you. We have to do it again!

Concord Music Group Statement on Isaac Hayes

August 11, 2008




CONCORD MUSIC GROUP’S STATEMENT ON ISAAC HAYES

The Stax Records and Concord Music Group family lost a great friend on Sunday when soul music giant Isaac Hayes died suddenly at the age of 65.

To the world he was Black Moses, Ike The Ripper and, later, Chef from TV's South Park. To the rest of us who had the extraordinary opportunity to work with him in recent years, he was just Isaac. He was humble, unpretentious and refreshingly down-to-earth. Not bad for a man who delivered a record-setting seven #1 albums to the Billboard R&B chart, scored numerous awards (including multiple Grammys and 2 Academy Awards), appeared in over three dozen films and was named a Royal King of Ghana along the way.

In the ‘60s, the Covington, Tenn. native helped define the Stax Records sound, co-writing with David Porter such hits as “Soul Man,” “Hold On (I’m Coming),” “B-A-B-Y,” and “When Something Is Wrong With My Baby” for Sam & Dave, Carla Thomas and Johnnie Taylor, among others.

He took soul music in a new direction with his 1969 album Hot Buttered Soul, which featured expansive re-interpretations of Jimmy Webb’s “By the Time I Get to Phoenix” and Bacharach and David’s “Walk On By.” The music’s impact was matched only by the visual impact of the record’s cover, which featured Hayes’ signature bald head, gold chains and bare chest.

Two years later, his “Theme From Shaft” exploded on the pop and R&B charts, putting him on the map as an artist and icon. The rat-a-tat of that lone high-hat, that cultural-shifting kick of the wah-wah pedal — no other piece of music signaled the true end of the '60s, ushering in the gritty 1970s than Isaac Hayes’ <http://www.concordmusicgroup.com/artists/Isaac-Hayes/> theme from Shaft <http://www.concordmusicgroup.com/albums/SCD-88002-2/>. The song won him not only a Grammy but two Oscars, for “Best Song” and “Best Score” in 1972. That same year he won a Grammy for his double album Black Moses. The hits continued for Hayes throughout the ‘70s.

In later years, Hayes’ career took some other directions. He became the voice of Nickelodeon’s Nick at Nite and later the voice of Chef in the animated series South Park. He had a role in the upcoming movie Soul Men with stars Samuel L. Jackson and Bernie Mac (who also died this past weekend).

In 2007, Hayes participated in the Stax Records 50th Anniversary celebration shows in Memphis, Austin and Los Angeles. Despite health problems that slowed him down in recent years, he continued to tour the world. He had proudly returned to Stax Records, both as an artist and as an advisor in planning the reactivation of the imprint in 2007 by Concord Music Group. Isaac was also in the process of recording a new album for Stax.

To borrow a phrase from the man himself, he was “one bad mutha.” And through the music he so generously left behind, the world will be talking about him and more importantly listening for lifetimes to come.

Concord Music Group president and CEO Glen Barros states, “Isaac Hayes exemplified all that is Stax. We are all very fortunate to have worked with a visionary who changed music in indelible and profound ways. His talent was matched only by his kindness of spirit. On behalf of the entire Concord/Stax family we express our deep sympathies to his family, friends and fans all over the world.”

Gene Rumsey, Concord Music Group general manager added, “The enduring influence of Stax Records could only have been made possible through Isaac’s brilliant song-writing which laid the ground work for the future generations of rap, hip-hop, and soul. Isaac played a pivotal role in the recent re-launch of Stax, once again infusing the label with his creativity, inspiring a whole new breed of Stax artists. Our condolences go out to all the people whose lives Isaac touched throughout his unparalleled career and lifetime.”

John Burk, executive VP and chief creative officer, Concord Music Group, states, “Isaac had a profound and multifaceted impact on the Stax label, contributing to its legacy as a writer, producer, arranger, studio musician, A&R executive and, of course, one of its most successful artists. Having collaborated closely with Isaac during the past few years, I came to know the man behind the music and his deep love for humanity. He was an extraordinary individual who used his talents to inspire and unite people from all walks of life. I feel tremendously privileged to have had the opportunity to work along side this giant of a man.”

J* Davey feat. Peter Hadar - Next Wednesday 8/20 @ SOBs!

RSVP HERE $10 on Hadar's list More @ the Door Doors: 7pm All who RSVP on Peter Hadar's list will receive a FREE copy of 'Well Dressed For The Art Show' & 'Memories Of The Heart' at the Show! Listen: 'Too Fresh' --------------------------------------------------- What They Are Saying...

About.... Well Dressed For The Art Show "an eclectic sonic masterpiece"- Essence.com "a necessity for the bedroom"- YRB Magazine -------------------------------- About.... Peter Hadar & His Shows "Composed and casual, Hadar engendered enthusiasm without seeming over eager." - VIBE.com "this cats kind of like the Kanye West to R&B"- SingersRoom.com

The Shayna Miller Group Online Music, Marketing & Events

The Rendezvous - August 25th

The Rendezvous - August 25th

The Rendezvous takes place on the last Monday of every month at Shrine World Music Venu, 2271 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd. bet. 133rd & 134th Streets in Harlem, NY. It' the place where you can meet great people, have good food, reasonable drinks and hear some great independent artists perform live! Simply put, you don'r want to be anywhere else when The Rendezvous is happening! The next edition edition of The Rendezvous takes place on Monday, August 25th and the scheduled performers include Soca artist Lyrikal, Radiant Soul/Dance Diva Sun Singleton, The incredible Chris Rob and coming from LA to perform songs from her super hot CD Right On Time, Miss Paola Jean! Of course Supa DJ King James will have the music pumping throughout the night. It's summertime and we're presenting another HOT night in Harlem, August 25th, The Rendezvous at Shrine World Music Venue. The Rendezvous takes place on the last Monday of every month at Shrine World Music Venue, 2271 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd. bet. 133rd & 134th Street in Harlem, NY. Admission is $10.00. Doors open at 6pm, Performances begin at 7:30pm

THE ACOUSTIC SOUL LOUNGE feat. SUN SINGLETON, DAIN HARRIS & BRANDON A.THOMAS!

Presents: THE ACOUSTIC SOUL LOUNGE @ SUNDAY, AUGUST 17TH LIVE PERFORMANCES BY: SUN SINGLETON DAIN HARRIS & BRANDON A. THOMAS With Soul/R&B tunes by DAN C.E. Showtime: 7:30pm LOCATION: 998 Amsterdam Ave. bet. 109th & 110th Sts. NO COVER!!! The Acoustic Soul Lounge takes place on the 3rd Sunday of every month. For the best in Soul/R&B Music that mainstream music ignores, listen to the ISB Radio Show every Saturday and Sunday at 1pm E.S.T. on RhythmAndSoulRadio.com. Support the Soul and spread the word!

Much Music in NYC This Weekend

Friday Late NIght Aug 15th 12:00 MIdnight $10.00 cover

Late Night Groove Series with

April Hill (www.aprilhill.com)
Blue Note
131 West 3rd Street
NYC
212-475-8592

SATURDAY, AUG 16, 2008 @ 8pm --- $10.00 cover

BIG BROOKLYN RED (www.bigbrooklynred.com)
RELEASE PARTY
with some surprise special guests

NUSOUL SATURDAY
FRANK's COCKTAIL LOUNGE
660 FULTON ST
Brooklyn,New York
718-625-9339

April Hill

A funky, soulful groove pumps hard in the studio. From the low-lit vocal booth we hear a sexy, sultry voice weaving tales of love, life, and inner strength. Caressing each note with tenderness, this sistah takes her time to tell her story.

24-year-old singer/songwriter April Hill is breathing new life into the soul scene. Her unique vocal style and gift with pen and paper is sure to have folk talking about this young Atlanta, Georgia-born talent for a long time.

April Hill, a Howard University graduate, came to New York City and began working as a financial analyst at the prestigious Goldman Sachs investment banking firm. The long hours and fast pace of Wall Street did not keep April from following her dream of becoming a recording artist. With the support of her mother and father, April decided to leave Goldman Sachs and focus her attention on developing her craft as a singer/songwriter.

April quickly caught the attention of soul singer/producer Marlon Saunders. Marlon fell in love with April’s soulful jazzy sound and invited her to share the stage as his opening act on tour. After a sold-out performance at the legendary Blue Note club in New York City, Marlon approached April and her parents about working with April.

The next day, Marlon and April were in the studio writing and recording song demos. It was around this time that the musical director for Ne-Yo phoned Marlon in search of background vocalists for the David Letterman Show. Marlon referred April and she was quickly rehearsing and working out background parts with Ne-Yo. April Hill’s dreams were finally coming true.

After a busy summer of touring, April began to hone her songwriting skills. Marlon and April would spend hours working on material, trading melodies and lyrics until they found April’s groove.

And now this beautiful young artist has delivered LOVE 360, a soulful recording filled with beautiful phrasing, simple and poignant lyrics that will have fans feeling a deep intimate connection with April Hill. April’s unique style combined with the hypnotic funky arrangements of co-producer Shawn Lucas will have soul heads of every generation enjoying LOVE 360.

If you don’t mind a little jazz in your funk, a little heartache with your happiness, and a little poetry with your backbeat, then your search is over….April Hill tells a story worth listening to.

BIG BROOKLYN RED

In 1997, when this native Brooklynite moved to Miami and received his name from Mandrill’s guitarist Tommy Trujillo, the die was cast. He realized at that point, by leaving his familiar NYC to conquer new lands, he was stepping into his destiny.

His resume prior to that point was impressive. As a member of The CityKids Foundation’s repertory company, and later an alumnus, he was able to hone his craft with performances in high schools, prisons, as well as on Broadway and TV with countless celebrities. He performed his first original composition with jazz legends Herbie Hancock and Bra nford Marsalis and then again with the late, great Grover Washington Jr. at age 17.

In 1994 he started his first band "eli &=2 0the bluesound project" and continued sharpening his performance chops while stretching the boundaries of music on the New York scene. After two years, the b and had run its course and Big Brooklyn Red went on to sign a production/management deal. While that particular effort never bore fruit, it gave him the opportunity to work with Ivan Hampden and Paulette McWilliams. Ivan was Luther Vandross’ drummer and Paulette was the linchpin of Luther’s inimitable background vocals. It was a master class. “I was a bad motherfucker before that, but Paulette made me razor sharp.”

Only six months after moving to Miami, Big Brooklyn Red became known as the premier soul singer in South Florida. His trademark freestyles made each performance one of a kind. Born from the difficulty of getting musicians to rehearse, his live performances in Miami were often complete improvisations. “That’s where the magic is for me,” Brooklyn says. “To just open your mouth and listen to what God might have me say. The better I sound, the better the song is, the more humble it makes me.”

“Somewhere along the line somebody with a mind for marketing told me to let the audience in on what was happening,“ Brooklyn adds. “I got tired of people asking where they could20buy the song I had just made up.” At a 1999 gig at the Marlin Hotel on South Beach, he asked the audience for a phrase that they wanted to hear in a song. He flipped that phrase, and possibly a thousand more since then.

Every Friday night home game during the 2001/02 NBA season found “Big Bro oklyn Red and the Miami Funk All Stars” as the house band for the Miami Heat. They performed the National Anthem, a few time-outs, the halftime show, and the post game party. Big Brooklyn Red20was at the top…it was time to leave. Destiny was still calling.

At the end of 2002, with the help of his grandmother, Big Brooklyn Red bought a motor-home; packed up all his worldly possessions, his then girlfriend and his dog Lulu and set out on a grassroots tour of the U.S. He used this opportunity to promote the release of his first album Foreword while also singing the National Anthem for NFL and NBA games, as well as doing open mics and featured performances in cities along the way. Each stop along the road brought him to venues where he belonged, such as the stage of the world famous Black Lily in Philadelphia. He met artists who were doing Soul music with the same passion and work ethic he himself possessed. Heston in Atlanta, Fertile Ground in Baltimore, W. Ellington Felton, Raheem De Vaughn and K’Allyn in DC.

Upon reaching his destination in Los Angeles, Big Brooklyn Red quickly made his mark. At a weekly showcase called Neo-Soul Unplugged, he rose to the top of a group of up-and-comers. His performances there were so legendary that he was often positioned as the=2 0opening act for such headliners as Brian McKnight, Blu Cantrell, Chico DeBarge, Robin Thicke, and Deborah Cox. “At Neo-Soul Unplugged my freestyles would make the headliners change their show…they wanted to be that free.”

Big Brooklyn Red’s time in L.A. was short-lived. Nearly a year after arriving in the City of Angels, he decided to return to Miami Beac h. He felt the need to reconnect with the live music scene he’d had a hand in creating.

In 2003, three tracks from Foreword were licensed to the UK compilation Organic Soul Vol.3. “Time” was also licensed to be used on the compilations NY Soul and Soul Lounge Vol.1. At the same time, his second Soulful House track with producer Patrick Green was remixed by Dennis Ferrer and released. In two days, all 2,500 copies of the vinyl pressing were sold out and 1,300 reorders were requested. The track also got radio play on KCRW before the record company folded - making "I Got Sunshine" a bonafide house music hit, as well as an enigma.

Later that year, Big Brooklyn Red did three dates in England to support Organic Soul Vol.3, and then flew directly to NYC in order to film “Showtime At The Apollo.” His performances ma de the 2004 season of their Best of Amateur Night show.

In 2006, Deep Haven Records released “He Moves,” a Gospel House track Big Brooklyn Red recorded a year earlier as a one-take freestyle. The record label’s debut release was launched with a performance in Minneapolis at the 7th St. Entrance, part of the 1st Avenue club. “I’m in the club where20they shot Purple Rain, in this room that’s packed to the rafters and everybody is singing my lyrics while I’m performing the song! I was worried that I was going to mess it up…I freestyled that song so long ago. It took me weeks to learn the lyrics for that show! It was great,” he laughs.

Big Brooklyn Red is a performance driven artist. Since 2000, he has averaged over 50 shows per year. He continues to connect and build with his fellow soul artists by doing gigs in NYC, Atlanta, Chicago, Philly, New Orleans and D.C. Since the release of Foreword and subsequent recordings, he has balanced the presentation of his recorded material with showcasing his improvisational talent, and the freestyles are easily the most anticipated part of his live show. He won’t repeat a phrase he sang before and he never takes the easy way out.

He explains, “People have an expectation when they spit out a bunch of words for me to sing. I try to make it something they didn’t expect. When it’s pretty good IE2m thinking really fast. When it’s really on I’m not even thinking and sometimes I fall flat on my face. That’s the risk of being an artist and being committed to your craft.”
=0 A
Big Brooklyn Red rarely falls on his face.

In 2007 TruSoul Entertainment released Big Brooklyn Red’s mix tape, Unrehearsed Vol.1. It features freestyle one-take recordings over reco gnizable tracks. It is the application of Brooklyn’s organic process to Hip-Hop.

His next album, Answer The Call will be available in stores and on-line in the summer of 2008. Me anwhile he continues to record and perform around the world. He may currently be seen on MTV Italia in DJ Jad’s video for "By My Side"

Kevin Harewood-Edclectic Entertainment

KUKU UPCOMING SHOW UPDATES

Tickets Available Now

Buy Now

KUKU Upcoming Shows

( view all )

Aug 15 2008 8:00P	Mother Fool's	Madison, WI
Aug 16 2008 8:00P	A Taste of Art	Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Aug 17 2008 8:00P	Ashland	Chicago, Illinois
Aug 18 2008 8:00P	Pass the Mic Mondays @ Pete's Sports Lounge	Calumet City, IL 60409
Aug 28 2008 8:00P	THE SHRINE, Tomas Donckers "Small World" CD Release	Harlem, NY
Aug 31 2008 7:00P	Bohemian Caverns with KUKU, Mongezi & Masauko	Washington, DC
Sep 5 2008 5:00P	Tea Love	Baltimore, MD
Sep 5 2008 8:00P	TBA	Baltimore MD
Sep 12 2008 7:00P	Olsson Books and Records In-store	Washington, DC
Sep 15 2008 8:00P	TBA	Paris
Sep 16 2008 8:00P	TBA	Paris
Sep 17 2008 8:00P	TBA	Paris
Sep 20 2008 8:00P	TBA	Paris

Amp Fiddler Update

IN THE RUN UP TO AMP'S FORTHCOMING ALBUM RELEASE WITH SLY AND ROBBIE, AND HOT ON THE HEELS OF HIS HEINEKEN RED STAR INDEPENDENT ACHIEVER AWARD, WE BRING YOU NEWS OF A NEW AWARD NOMINATION FOR AMP AS 'BEST MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR' AT THE SOULTRACKS AWARDS.
Soultracks readers will choose the winner in each of the five categories, so please sign up to their newsletter on their website and register your support for Amp! Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony in Detroit on October 3rd.
Keeping it in the family, former collaborator on his Afro Strut album and fellow label mate on newly launched imprint Muthas Of Invention, Stephanie McKay has just released her sophomore album, Tell It Like It Is - a mix of classic hip-hop, funk, soul and pop. Essential summer listening!


With time ticking down to the release of Amp's collaborative album with Sly and Robbie (see album cover image below), press interest has already been picking up, and at this rate come the release in October it will have reached fever pitch!

We have some exclusive behind-the-scenes footage of the recording session at Anchor Recording Studio in Kingston, Jamaica, to give you a taster of what to expect in the album.
Just click on the video image below.

You can now download high quality MP3s from Amp's 'Rare and Unreleased' album and 'Mr Fiddler - With Respect' at the Muthas Of Invention download store, or on CD through CD Baby or the Muthas physical store.
Copies of these and Amp's two other solo albums, Afro Strut and Waltz Of A Ghetto Fly are still available on CD too by clicking on the images below. Amp is currently working on new solo material that will form the basis of his next album, scheduled for release early in 2009.

WANNA BE A PART OF AMP'S STREET TEAM?
What with this upcoming album release, more touring and a solo release in the pipeline too, things are really stepping up at Amp HQ. We've had a fantastic response to the street team sign ups so far with a steady growing collective of people stretching from Auckland to Oslo and everywhere in between.
If you are interested in being part of this growing band of dedicated fans please drop us an email and let us know. Anything you can do to help spread Amp's profile, from online blog postings and event promo, helping give out stickers and flyers to your friends, holding Amp Fiddler listening parties, will all help to get Amp's music to more ears!! In return for your help we'll shower you with goodies; exclusive MP3s, free promos, signed posters, tickets to shows and more! You'll also get the chance to meet and spend time with Amp and the crew next time he plays in your town.
If this interests you, please drop us an email at info@muthas.co.uk



Amp also has online profiles at the following sites; pop by and say hi sometime. 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

--
Muthas Music Group
www.muthas.co.uk

Representing Amp Fiddler - Stephanie McKay - Bugz In The Attic - Morley - Drugs

Maya Azucena Shows Jersey Love

MAYA AZUCENA SHOWS JERSEY LOVE
JERSEY LOVE Yes, New Jersey deserves love too. So, we are going to do a full out electric concert THURSDAY, AUGUST 14TH in Newark, at the NJ PERFORMING ARTS CENTER (NJ PAC, for short). The concert is outdoors and Free – you can’t get it any better than that. We hit at 8:00PM. *photos by Gary Greene Go to NJPAC.org if you don’t know how to get there. It is only a 5 minute walk from the Newark Penn Station. See you soon! We plan to have an afterparty at The Key Club, around the corer from NJ PAC in Newark. TILLMAN’S Following Monday the 18th, I will do a casual acoustic set at the sexy lounge, TILLMAN’S on West 26th St., NYC. My friend musicians, please come on through so we can maybe set up a little jam. It’s low key and free...but the price of the drinks make up for it. JUNKYARD JEWEL JUNKYARD JEWEL on ABC Radio Networks – Junkyard Jewel song gets national radio play through Fame Games, the only indie radio show that gives you mainstream radio play. A DJ-favorite track on Fame Games radio, the song is a front page feature in this month's "Can You Top This" list, as well as on the on two of the DJ’s TOP PICK’s LISTS. Check it out: www.MEERMUSIC.com Press quotes from Fame Games radio panel on ABC RADIO NETWORKS: "What a powerful, rich and touching voice! We’ve listened to this with bated breaths, truly captivated by the power of this performance. In a word WOW! The song itself may or may not translate to a wider audience. Given half a chance, however, it will win over many converts, of this we have no doubt.” “Absolutely wonderful, what a fantastic voice she has.....such a richness in her voice.... she sounds so much like Roberta Flack... perhaps its (Junkyard Jewel is) not a commercially sounding crossover record, but because she’s got such class and such quality, it has made it to the finals today and I think Maya’s going to go a long long way... Very honest...” SET YOU FREE SET YOU FREE MUSIC VIDEO on iTunes Ford Focus Edge music podcast Ford Focus Edge music podcast on iTunes recently featured SET YOU FREE music video, directed by Jason Fisher of Mogul Media, as the FIRST song (miss-printed as Set Me Free), in their Focus Coffee House podcast. The show has 4 videos in each podcast, with a bunch of hip artists like M.I.A., Snow Patrol, Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings, Peter Bjorn & John, Polyphonic Spree, and a whole load of others. Maya Azucena’s Set You Free keeping good company! SET YOU FREE 2 New digital single “Set You Free - (Chico's Radio Edit )” will be released and available digitally week of AUGUST 11th. After premiering a couple of months ago on MySpace.com, this much in demand REMIX is now available for sale at all digital outlets (iTunes, Rhapsody, etc.). The original version of "Set you Free” is one of the more popular cuts on Maya Azucena's critically acclaimed Junkyard Jewel project on Purpose Records. The Jason Fisher-directed video for "Set You Free” has been a staple on BET-J since early this year. Acclaimed Remixer and Producer CHICO has recently completed several chart-worthy mixes including: Jason Walker "I Can't Get You Off My Mind" - week 2 #46 Billboard Dance Charts Amuka "I Miss You" - Top 40/Dance Radio play Hillary Duff "Reach Out" Bermudez-Chico Remix Disney/Universal Katy Perry "I Kissed A Girl" Capitol Chico feat. Claudia Monet Bermudez-Chico Adamantium - Mix #7 Mixshow Record USA The SET YOU FREE release also marks the first digital-only release in the PURPOSE MUSIC GROUP SINGLE SERIES of their digital distribution and marketing deal with INGROOVES.	Tour Dates AUGUST 14th NJ PAC 8pm NEWARK, NJ AUGUST 18th TILLMAN'S 10pm NEW YORK, NY

Spoken Rhythm Newsletter

August 2008
OPEN MIC POETRY EV. WED. NITE IF you haven't been here u are indeed missing a good time! We're at the Spoken Word Cafe from 7:30-11p. We'll see u there... Music by Dj Superman!! The Wait is OVER!! Frank Pete's Second album entitled "Secret Rendezvous" will be released Spring 2009!		F.L.O.A. Album . "You are truly an inspiration to put pen to paper with thoughts of love and admiration for self and others. Job well done...Hats off to you for all that you do now and what you have done. Kudos!" Katrina G. UPCOMING EVENTS & APPEARANCES 8/13/08, Recovery for a Cause Poetry Showcase, Spoken Word Cafe. Showtime 8:30pm 8/16/08, Union City, TN, Play: John Ruffin's No More Sheets. Frank Pete is an actor in this play. 8/18/08, Spoken Rhythm Interview, Channel 19, 9pm 8/19/08, Encore: Interview, Channel 19, 4pm 8/28/08, A Night of Spoken Rhythm 2 (Show), Channel 19, 8pm 8/29/08, Encore: Spoken Rhythm (Show), Channel 19, 3pm 9/18-20/08, John Ruffin's Play: All For Love, Regal Theatre Chicago, IL, 7:30pm 9/27/08-11/15/08, 6-Week PoetryTour (41 Cities) Coast-to-Coast 10/15/08, Spoken Rhythm Nights Series #3 (Show) Newsletter Signup F.L.O.A. Records Inc.

Cherry Bomb is The Bomb! April Hill at The Blue Note and Soul Music is in the air!

- Vol 1, Issue 1

In This Issue APRIL HILL NU SOUL SERIES CHERRY BOMB OWN YOUR POWER BROOKLYN ACADEMY REEL PEOPLE Friendly Links CHERRY BOMB MELISSA YOUNG APRIL HILL JAGUAR SKILLS OWN YOUR POWER SAM THE KID HESTON THE BLOOM BLOG KARINA NISTAL DROM DRED SCOTT TRIO REEL PEOPLE STRICTLY SOCIAL SHANTELL MARTIN INDEPENDENT MUSIC AWARDS BROOKLYN ACADEMY INTERNATIONAL SOUL SUMMIT		Friends and Fam I'm back from Crop Over, Barbados and I'm still recovering. May take weeks.. I thought I knew how to party- hell no! I heard Trinidad Carnival is 10 times more intense-- don't think you'll be seeing me there. Perhaps 10 years ago:) However, book your tickets to Barbados next year- I highly recommend it-- especially if you love partying several days straight and all night all day! For real!!! Upon coming back to the States I received an email saying that 3 of my artists have been nominated for a Readers Choice Soultracks Award 'Best New Artist'. The Awards Ceremony takes place at Max M. Fisher Music Center on October 3rd in Detroit. Congrats to April Hill, Melissa Young and Heston. 3 out of 5 ain't bad if I may say so myself! I must be doing something right..... So much going on these next few days- don't know where to begin. I also want to shout out International Soul Music Summit. Dates are in Atlanta- Sept 12-14th and you know I'll be there. If anyone has any ideas, or comments or is interested in contributing to The Bloom Blog- let me know... My The Bloom Blogis blooming! Thanks to Tony Z of Netmix and it's just in the beginning stages but I want to thank all the readers who have subscribed thus far....Keep it BLOOMing... APRIL HILL You've been hearing her name a lot over the past few months and it' s just the beginning. No more 'Who is April Hill'. Her debut album 'Love 360' has been receiving accolades from wide and far. We congratulate her on the 'Best New Artist' nod. She'll be in Detroit... Her single 'Wanna Be Free' has been floating around the air-waves for a few weeks now and charted on Urban AC.. April is at The Blue Note this Friday- August 15th- Midnight. Come find out why folks are crazy about this new artist. She's super talented, super sexy, very versatile, smart and entertaining... Guest list inquiries- hit me up... She's also at Fuzzy's in Norfolk, VA next Wednesday, August 20th. Special thanks to Fuzz Band and Tracy Freeman from On The Verge....

NU SOUL SERIES

Every month the combination of Purpose Records and Edclectic Entertainment brings you or I should say enlightens you with fresh new acoustic world soul at this critically acclaimed and much needed Nu-Soul Series. I've had the honor and pleasure of hosting this series since Day 1....Big thanks... I've discovered many new artists thanks to these guys. Including Kuku, Wayna, Tasha Mabry, and the list goes on... This Saturday will be very special as Big Brooklyn Red returns back to Brooklyn for his new album release and a showcase with special friends. The showcase is sponsored by Soul Commune, Mosaic Thump, Fusicology, ONUTSS, and Soultracks. This Saturday- August 16th. Frank's Lounge 8PM- Brooklyn

CHERRY BOMB

Thanks to Facebook I got re-connected to a long time friend Author/Journalist Carrie Borzillo-Vrenna. She asked me if I'd be interested in doing her NY book party and of course I said YES! So here we are--- CHERRY BOMB- this is a wonderful book that's just out through Simon and Schuster's Spotlight Entertainment. There is such a buzz on this book. It's adorable and cute and a fun read. It's an Ultimate Guide to being a better flirt, a tougher chick and a hotter girlfriend and to living life like a Rock Star.... It's getting rave reviews and Carrie is a sweetheart. She'll be coming in and autographing books at this hot book party. The only one in NY.... Tuesday, August 19th Beauty Bar 7PM-10PM There will be fabulous gift bags, cocktails, great music courtesy of DJ CAT NYC and Mel D. Cole capturing it all on the lens... Thanks to Urban Decay, Touchd, Zildjian, Alternative Press, Pleasure Chest, Burning Angel, Effen Vodka, Emergen-C and Capitol Records. Complimentary Effen from 7PM-8PM The RSVP's are flooding in. Over 500 currently. Don't wait till the last minute....

OWN YOUR POWER

Treat yourself to a relaxing escape with like minds- It's the 2nd Annual OWN YOUR POWER RETREAT. Announcing NEW DATES: Sept 26-27th at Miami Botanical Gardens This retreat promises to be an empowering weekend. You will enjoy personal development, business and natural healing workshops designed to broaden your vision and bring clarity. A total integration of Body, Mind and Spirit. Don't miss out.... Tables/booths selling out fast!!!! REGISTER NOW!!!

BROOKLYN ACADEMY

How excited am I to be repping for Brooklyn Academy and their long overdue and very anticipated debut release 'Bored of Education'. Talk about Full Circle! I go way back with these blokes. Back to 3-2-1 Records days when I put out this hot split single that still to this day is considered an 'Underground Classic'. Skeme Team featuring Non-Phixion and The Arsonists with the split single Pumpkinhead, Word a Mouth(Met and Block) yes- They're here- they never went anywhere but the studio, stayed busy and creatively have mixed and mashed up some incredible songs both musically and lyrically and the guests on this project are ridiculous. Keith Murray, what? Jean Grae, what? And the list goes on.... People- you need to be here at the celebration of their new endeavour- their DEBUT- for so many reasons I can't explain them all here but for the main one-- many many years in the makes and in the works and who says it's not true!! Good things really come to those who wait !! And now the wait is over.... I'm so happy for my boys!!! For Hip Hop we all need to be.....Brooklyn Academy is keeping Hip Hop very much alive in NY....Who says Hip Hop's Dead! Wednesday, September 3rd Southpaw 9PM Park Slope, BK-- where it all began!!!!

REEL PEOPLE

I got a lot of England in my life right now and this oh so makes me happy...My roots! All the way live from London is the funky soulful dance act- Reel People. Their 2nd album will see the light Stateside- as they ready the release of 'Seven Ways to Wonder'. Reel People spearheaded by Oli Lazurus of Papa Records fame... Oli will come over to NY for promo and guest DJ appearances sometime in September. There are 12 juicy tracks on the latest project and a few guests including Darien and Omar... In fact-- I can't stop listening to this album.. Will be doing something special with them for International Soul Music Summit in Atlanta 2nd week of September. So keep your eyes peeled.. Also- a listening party for the 'Seven Ways to Wonder' at Frank's Lounge- Nu-Soul Series- Sept 20th...

Once again- don't forget to vote on Soultracks- Readers Choice Awards. Sign up for their newsletter and they'll send you a ballot if you don't already have one....If you pick 1 of my 3 - how can I be mad:-) We'll be bringing you Strictly Social ATL on Friday, September 12th....That's for International Soul Music Summit. Details TBA I'm speaking at Baltimore Music Conference Sept 20th. Hit me up if you're headed down there. Peep HESTON's debut album 'Storyteller' - coming to a retailer near you soon. Lastly- I got this beautiful gift in the mail from United Recordings. Bardo State. All I have to say is this is magical, a masterpiece and purely Heavenly. Album called Mariposa. Bardo State Oh and thanks for connecting through my social media networks and keep reading my emails and blogs!!! Sincerely, Fiona Bloom The Bloom Effect email: fiona@thebloomeffect.com

Robert Mitchell 3io: album launch

Robert Mitchell 3io
distinctive British jazz pianist releases his new trio album
The Greater Good
(JSLCD002)
on
Monday 13 October 2008
with assistance from Jazz Services’ Recording Support Scheme


Live album launch
Wednesday 15 October 2008: The Vortex Jazz Club, 11 Gillett Square, N16
Box Office: 020 7254 4097; Tickets: £8; Time: 8pm

Accompanied by the metronomic but awesomely complex drummer Richard Spaven and the ingenious electric and acoustic bassist Tom Mason... Mitchell improvises in Herbie Hancockish sweeps but with more input from free-improv and contemporary classical music
The Guardian

Robert Mitchell 3io has its roots in its leader’s long-running band, Panacea. Drummer Richard Spaven and bassist Tom Mason are the rhythm section of Panacea and, together with Robert, have quietly been developing a real signature in this traditional jazz piano trio format. Over the years the trio has honed its mix of influences (song, odd metre, freeform jazz, broken beat, hip-hop, folk) with older and more modern jazz/electronica/rock. The Greater Good features arrangements of tunes by Massive Attack (Teardrop), and the famously sampled Galt MacDermot (composer of Hair), along with five Mitchell originals, a tune each by Tom and Richard, and the rarely played Dance Cadaverous, written by Wayne Shorter for his 1964 album Speak No Evil.

Robert Mitchell was born in Ilford, Essex in 1971 to a Grenadian father and a Barbadian mother. He studied at City University and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and, as a graduate of Tomorrow’s Warriors and Gary Crosby's Nu Troop, plus award winning funky crossover bands Quite Sane and J-Life, has forged a formidable reputation as a gifted pianist and composer. As part of the prestigious F-ire Collective, Robert won the Jazz on 3 Innovation Award at the 2004 BBC Jazz Awards; he has also been nominated twice: for Rising Star in 2002, and Best New Work in 2003. He’s played/recorded with names such as Norma Winstone, Steve Coleman, Courtney Pine, Steve Williamson, Ty, 2 Banks of 4, and IG Culture, in addition to leading the six-piece Panacea. Panacea first performed in 2000, releasing its debut album, Voyager, on the Dune label a year later. Its second album, Trust, was released on F-IRE in 2005. A solo album, Equinox (originally a BBC Radio 3/Jerwood commission), was released in Spring 2007, and Robert curated a festival, Lifting The Lid: A Celebration of Modern Solo Piano, at Soho’s Pizza Express that Autumn. Robert plays in a hugely successful duo with Cuban violinist Omar Puente, and its debut album, Bridges, garnered critical acclaim on release in late 2006. Robert also works with US vocalist Jhelisa Anderson, composer/saxophonist Dan Stern, and bassist/singer Yolanda Charles/The Deep MO.

Tom Mason made the switch from classical violin to jazz bass at the age of 18 when he was offered a place at the Royal Academy of Music. Since then, in addition to performing, touring and recording with Panacea, Tom has worked with an eclectic array of artists including Athena, Robin Eubanks, Michael Cain, Gwilym Simcock, Gerard Presencer, Famadou Don Moye, BBC Big Band, Kings Cross Hotclub, Nicolas Meier Group, Carl Orr, Tim Garland, Timeline, Donovan and DJ Stix.

Richard Spaven is prolific on the nu-jazz and broken beat scene in the UK, US and Netherlands, playing with Mark de Clive-Lowe, 4 Hero, the Flowriders, Bugz in the Attic, US hip-hop group Platinum Pied Pipers and DJ Vadim's One Self. He also works with US singers Aaron Jerome, and Jose James (signed to Gilles Peterson's Brownswood label) and is musical director for Ty. Richard is also a long-standing member of Robert Mitchell's Panacea.


Notes to editors:
Robert Mitchell 3io is the second band to record, release and tour a new album with the support of Jazz Services’ Recording Support Scheme (the first was The Jamil Sheriff Octet’s Backchat, released in December 2007). With funding from Arts Council England, the Recording Support Scheme promotes original jazz by UK-resident musicians. Operated in conjunction with 33 Records’ studio and distribution outlets, the scheme allows eight bands to record over two years.

Jazz Services was formed over 21 years ago and, with support from Arts Council England, encourages the growth and development of jazz within the UK. A unique organisation - offering free, essential services in information, education, touring, communications, marketing and publishing - Jazz Services is recognised as a committed campaigner, providing a valued voice for jazz in the UK.

Robert Mitchell 3io tour dates:
Wednesday 15 October: The Vortex Jazz Club, 11 Gillett Square, N16
Box Office: 020 7254 4097; Tickets: £8; Time: 8pm

Friday 17 October: Orange Street Music Club, 15 Orange Street, Canterbury (Canterbury Festival)
Box Office: 01227 760 801; Tickets: £8/6; Time: 8.30pm

Saturday 18 October: Kings Place, 90 York Way, N1
Box Office: 0844 264 0321; Tickets: £5.50; Time: 3.30pm

Tuesday 21 October: Ram Jam Club (behind Grey Horse pub), 46 Richmond Road, Kingston
Box Office: 020 8549 8709; Tickets: £5/£3; Time: 9pm

Friday 24 October: Square Chapel, 10 Square Road, Halifax, West Yorkshire
Box Office: 01422 349 422; Tickets: £10/£8; Time: 8pm

Tuesday 28 October: St Ives Jazz Club, Western Hotel Royal Square, St Ives
Box Office: 01736 795 277; Tickets: £9/£6 members; Time: 9pm

Friday 7 November: Cambridge Modern Jazz Club, Kettle's Yard, Castle Street, Cambridge
Box Office: 01223 511 511; Tickets: £16/£12; Time: 7.30pm

Tuesday 11 November: Dempseys, 15 Castle Street, Cardiff
Box Office: 02920 496 802; Tickets: £5/4; Time: 9pm

Monday 17 November: Charlie Wrights, 45 Pitfield Street, N1 (London Jazz Festival)
Box Office: 020 7490 8345; Tickets: £7; Time: 9:30pm


CDs and pics available on request
Robert Mitchell 3io is available for session
Robert Mitchell is available for interview

myspace.com/robertmitchellmusic
jazzservices.org.uk
33jazz.com

Press enquiries to: Helen Maleed
tel/fax: 020 7732 4624 mobile: 07986 235 855
email: helen@greendesk.demon.co.uk