Packed Up & Moved Away

The time has come to move this blog to a new space that offers opportunities to do more. Therefore, please join me over at (link)

My first blog has been posted about some of the music exposure 2010 has blessed me with in such a short span of time (more to come that I will be writing about within the next few hours...

Please join me at the new spot where I'll continue to share news about music related events, live music opportunities for you to experience and the random thoughts about the things that pop into my head and prompt me to want to share.

Always eager for your feedback...

Peace & Blessings

The 2010 Cupid 'sHunt Podcast Collaboration

check out all of the contributors to this year's Cupid's Hunt Podcast Collaboration
& keep an eye on this spot for updates

• Angel Monique: My Lover & I
• Anji Bee: Chillcast #203: Cupid’s Hunt V.3
• ArtLuv: Cupid’s Hunt
• Bajanrascals: Fever
• Bryn Griffiths: Trust In Love
• Darren Keith: Cupid’s Hunt Collaboration
• DJ Diva: Neo Soul Love
• DJ Grant Love: Samples of Love
• DJ Marcus Gramm: Steel Vagina
• DJ Young Venom: Cupid’s Hunt
• EJ Flavors: Love Me On The One
• Essence Grooves: Valentine Pt. 1, Emotional Rollercoaster Pt. 2 , Love You Down Pt. 3 and Lost Without You Pt. 4
• Fave: Cupid’s Hunt 2010
• Fresh!: Love Makes Me An Instrument – It Tunes Me Up
• KB: Cover My Heart
• Keyknow: Age of An Orgasm
• Liberated Muse: Love Conversations
• Lis: Cupid’s Hunt 2010
• Listen To Leon: Get Some Stank On Your Hand: A Valentine’s Mixtape
• Liz Burr: MJ’s Love
• Macedonia: Another One for Beth: Cupid’s Hunt Edition
• Ouxu: Cupid’s Hunt
• Panama Jackson: Cupid’s Hunt
• Rehab’s Couch: Cupid’s Hunt: Valentine’s Special Edition
• Roddio Jukebox: Love and Hip-Hop
• Soulmusiqluva: Heart’s Aflame – Ladies
  
• Soundnexx: Heartaches & Breaks Mixx: Cupid’s Hunt 2010
• TGrundy: Wonder-LOVE!
• The Night Shift: I Want You, First Dance, If Loving You Is Wrong and If You’re Not Back In Love By Monday
• Todd Kelley aka Big The La: Flowink.com’s Cupid’s Hunt Mix: 2010
• Vivrant Thang: Let’s Take A Long Walk

Cupid's Hunt 2010: Twisted Love - fellas

Cupid's Hunt 2010: (Vol II) Twisted Love ~ fellas mix

Picking up where I left off: Volume II of 2010's Cupid Hunt takes me to a special zone = a place where men know just what love truly means. Either by trial and error or just knowing what wins, these brothers make the women swoon!

• The Never That You Never Know ~ Mint Condition
• The Love We Almost Had ~ Randy & The Gypsys
• Love Don't Love Nobody ~ Phil Perry
• Still ~ V
• It's You ~ Troy Johnson
• Let Me Make Love to You ~ The O'Jays
• Wildflower ~ New Birth
• Maybe Tomorrow ~ Jackson 5
• Yearning for Your Love ~ Gap Band
• Stay Awhile ~ Rahsaan Patterson
• Ask of You ~ Raphael Saadiq
• Ebony Eyes ~ Rick James/Smokey Robinson
• Adore ~ Prince
• Your Body's Calling ~ RKelly
• Wanna Make Love ~ Lillo Thomas
• Giving My All ~ Johnny Gill
• In My Hands ~ Jaheim
• The Moon ~ Eric Roberson
• Bullseye ~ Lakeside
• I've Found Someone ~ Barry White

Cupid's Hunt: Twisted Love (fellas mix)

Cupid's Hunt 2010: Heart's Aflame - Ladies

I felt like a kid unleashed in a candy store back in 2009 around Valentine's Day. A musical movement was unfolding around me, clueless I jumped in and absorbed as much as I could. The extravaganza would later be revealed to me as 'Cupid's Hunt' -- a consortium of musicloving podcasters who joined forces to show even more love to good music in the name of Valentine's Day. I decided then and there that I had to be down for 2010 -- and down, I am.

In the time since I'd stumbled upon this event, the wonderful organizer (TGrundy) and I have become so cool that we refer to one another with the endearing label of 'Co-Chef' because we collaborated on a project of the musical sort not so long ago. I thought I was a lover of good music -- TG takes the love of music to a totally different level. The honor of knowing him is totally mine!

Volume I of the 2010 Cupid's Hunt, which I've entitled, Heart's Aflame: Ladies is now available for download. Eleven specially selected songs that come from female singers whose voices I truly love comprise this edition. It opens with United Together by Aretha Franklin -- a song that I intend to be the first that I dance to with my future, yet unnamed/unidentified husband (lol).

4am and there's still so much more for me to do -- the all male volume will be posted this evening. Stay tuned and be sure to spread the word because I can guarantee you that the goodies the other Cupid's Hunt Collaborators will be posting will blow you away!

Cupid's Hunt 2010 ~ Heart's Aflame: Ladies Edition

Passing Judgment

3 a.m. and I should have long been under the covers, clear into snoozeland. As usual, my mind is cluttered with so many thoughts. Something deeply personal has been tugging away at me and I've recently decided to share it with whomever takes the time to read my thoughts. Perhaps it can be a source of comfort for other women facing similar challenges.

For twelve years I wore my hair natural. I decided to loc it when I realized that the free flow look I desired could not be achieved and maintained easily. The year was 1997, and my baby boy was only 5 years old. My boyfriend at the time had locs and had the perfect loctician in mind for me to work with. The sister's name is Yendys and she was infamous in the Flatbush area at that time for the natural haircare student.

I was eager to learn, anxious for the absorption of all the knowledge she has to impart upon me with regard for the proper care of my new natural head of healthy hair. I allowed Yendys to cut my hair down to nubs. (I'll share pictures later)

Over the years, my hair grew and the carefree nature of caring for my hair was a joy! Wash, twist, oil the scalp and go... It was all such a beautiful experience. About six years into loc'ing, I began to notice a little change. My locs weren't growing as they had been, and something seemed off.

As the days turned to months, I'd begun to really see significant change -- my hairline was thinning. I made an appointment to see my dermatologist and after several biopsies of my scalp, foams, potions, ointments, dietary changes, pills -- her suggestion was to incorporate Rogaine into my daily routine.

(to be continued, sleep beckons and I must answer the call...)

7 a.m.

The bottom line is that throughout this ordeal, I learned that my 'slight' anemia also included a dangerously low level of vitamin D (who knew that had an impact on hair growth), low levels of ferritin (a direct relation from low iron levels) and so many more health related issues. I have been definitively diagnosed with traction alopecia and have undergone a series of monthly steroidal injections to my scalp for more than seven months. I used to count the number of times the needle would plunge into my scalp and lost count after 70. My mother was with me during that particular visit to the dermatologist and when I removed the gauze protecting my eyes from the spray that attempts to freeze the scalp and slightly divert the pain, the look on her face was one of utter horror! I smiled to let her know I had survived another round of torture.

This past Saturday after my visit to the doctor, my mother begged me to stop. Then she told me that the injections are affecting my brain and I couldn't help laughing til I cried. My mother understands how the loss of hair can make a woman feel less than beautiful. Genetics have caused every generation of women in my family that we can recall to have worn super granny wigs. Sorry, but I'm way too young (and cute, I think -- lol) to wear a blue haired lady wig. The picture at the top is my current collection of lace fronts. Quite a rack up in 7 months, right? Who would ever have thought!

I posted this because in these months I have had really bold women approach me in the street as they fail to look into my eyes, yet find their eyes resting on my hair line which has been replaced by a lace front wig -- one that I have become such a master at masking that you have to be up on me to see where it begins and my natural forehead ends. Their question to me always begins with, "is that a...?" Before they can continue, I stop them and reply with the defiant, "YES!" and a bodacious smile. From there they ask where do I get them done -- and the eyes open so wide when I tell them that I take care of my own hair prosthesis. (lol)

I have had women stare -- I have been insulted by others who talk about the texture of the devices -- but the compliments are what touch me most.

Please remember not to pass

judgment

on others because you never know what's going on in their world. Share a kind word instead of a harsh stare.

Sisters, remember to love on one another.

Brothers -- show sensitivity!

And Wendy Williams -- please tell me how to apply a wig clip -- lol

*comments welcome -- please share with a sister OR brother who can relate*

Musiq Spotlight Events...

...those events that you should keep your eyes on and plan to attend!

Spotlight Events
(link)

will be updated when information is supplied


+
more

2010: It's a new day!

2010 is here and there's no turning back! Each day I try to find the words to encourage myself -- not scripture, just true thoughts coming from within me that keep the motivational factor alive. Today's thought was: 'I am determined & driven!' 2009 was a year of exploration: a year to get back into doing things I'd sworn I would never do wholeheartedly (artist management, public relations, begging in the most subtle way to have someone to accept an artist you work with and absolutely believe in); a year to reflect on projects you no longer enjoy being involved with to the fullness of your heart -- seeking evolution; a year to take life's reality when it comes to family and illness into full perspective; a year to look at how you spend the bulk of your day -- and determine if you are truly happy. The bottom line -- are you happy where you are? And if the answer is a resounding No! What do you plan to do about it to make it better?

As 2009 faded, my mother was in the hospital, I wasn't happy with the prognosis (or lack thereof) and I wanted to focus on the changes I needed to make in 2010. My affinity for social media outlets: twitter and facebook had grown immensely! Both, providing an opportunity to not only connect with like-minded individuals who share similar interests, but to interact with musicians who mean more than the world to me.

Time for me to smile and truly have joy behind each smile. Most importantly, I continue to pray to God for guidance with each step I intend to take.

* * *
2009: A reflection!
Music & Affiliations

Always excited about opportunities to meet new artists or those that I love and respect, and to experience a live performance. 2009 was a great year for all of that: (in no particular order other than what comes to mind)
Monica Blaire

Yahzarah

Eric Roberson & DMo

PJ Morton

Naturally 7

Yahzarah & Ra-Re Valverde

Sy Smith

Mint Condition

Maxwell

Trina Broussard

Ndambi

Bobby Brown

Foreign Exchange

-- meeting Caron Wheeler, Najee and Angie Stone -- having Calvin Richardson create a drop for our company, moments to cherish eternally.

The event that holds the most special spot in my heart took place in April 2009: the ONUTSS Tribute to Luther Vandross at the Blue Note. A live venture that I'm sure means as much to Pam as it did for me, which brought so much talent under one roof: Kim Davis, KiKi Hawkins, Lady Tess, Alex Marcelo, Kelvyn Bell, Daru Jones, Kenny Wesley, Bradd Marquis, Gordon Chambers and V. Oh and our hostess who took the room by storm, Lorenda Robinson! From this union came a bond that I could never have imagined and smile so proudly whenever I think about it -- the opportunity to work with Bradd Marquis and V on an even more intimate level (co-management, booking rep, publicist, confidante, homie, consultant, travel agent *ha* and friend).


Motivation for me comes with denial, watching others make unwarranted strides or outside pressure. People may demand of you what you truly are not willing to give. The simplest requests can take the most time to complete because they present so much more of an emotional challenge than anything else. There are irons in the fire that I cannot or am not willing to divulge just yet, but there are opportunities that have been presented to me that can evolve into so much more -- and for that, I am eternally grateful.
(People often see in you what you may not immediately see in yourself.)


2010 ~ let's go!


Another 4:30am evening/morning comes to a close...
Peace & Blessings one and all

Bradd Marquis: The Gift of Music (free download)

THE GIFT OF MUSIC:
Happy Holidays
from
BRADD MARQUIS

Bradd Marquis is quickly becoming a name that continues to be repeated when quality male vocalists are mentioned these days. This young crooner oozes with soul, though his versatility enables him to bring the essence of music, pure and simple to any stage he graces. Often compared to Marvin Gaye and Teddy Pendergrass, the raspy-vocalist with a statuesque physique and model-like good looks has a personality that resonates with down home charm. Hailing from a family where music knew no limit, Bradd Marquis is a force to be reckoned with!

He was invited by the mighty SoulBounce team to be part of the Men Love Mary: A Tribute to 'My Life' project and submitted his rendition of 'Never Want to Live Without You' -- critics, and fans alike gave him thumbs up.

As a treat to you for the holidays, Bradd Marquis is offering an EP filled with grown and sexy tunes for all to enjoy, which also includes 'Never Want to Live Without You' == another name to remember: BRADD MARQUIS, a gifted musician, actor and well-rounded talent!

DOWNLOAD LINK

2009: Year in review - music, life lessons, love & all that matters (to me)!

Coming soon...!

SoulBounce Presents: Men Love Mary - Tribute to 'My Life'

SoulBounce Presents 'Men Love Mary': A Tribute To 'My Life'

Fifteen years ago Mary J. Blige released My Life, a breakthrough album chronicling her inner struggles while catapulting her to superstardom as the Queen of Hip Hop Soul. In celebration of this milestone, we gathered nine dynamic male artists to record re-imaginings of their favorite My Life songs for Men Love Mary: A Tribute to My Life, a digital EP presented by SoulBounce. The EP is hosted by one of Bad Boy's legendary "Hitmen," Chucky Thompson, who was a key producer on the My Life album. My Life was a pivotal point in Mary's career where her voice shined as a beacon of hope and understanding to men and women all over the world. Men Love Mary: A Tribute to My Life offers a fresh perspective from Eric Roberson, Jesse Boykins III, Slakah the Beatchild, Nino Moschella, Bradd Marquis, TL Cross, Darien, D Maurice, Fave and Siik--a new generation of artists inspired by her sincerity, longevity and artistry. My Life was about Mary's relationship with one man, and now many men have reinterpreted these songs in an effort to pay tribute to an artist who has given us so much of herself. As a culture, we do a great job of paying tribute to our stars posthumously. Men Love Mary: A Tribute to My Life is an opportunity to celebrate our Queen and let her know how much she means to us and to music. This is our chance to honor her and give her flowers while she's still here, and we're sharing the bouquet with her adoring fans. SoulBounce is proud to present to you this labor of love, Men Love Mary: A Tribute to My Life. Download (link) the EP and enjoy these new renditions of some of your favorites from My Life.

Zo, Sy & the Foreign Exchange Cats Are Definitely CERTIFIABLE!!

Zo of Foreign Exchange released a collection of 7 gems (covers) entitled, Just Visiting Too earlier this week. The playlist is posted below and this collection features all of the members of his band. It's a keeper and I would definitely love to hear what you all think of it after listening! You can get to the download link by clicking on the album title.

Tracklisting:
1. Perfect Angel feat. Yahzarah
2. Nights Over Egypt feat. Carlitta Durand
3. Crazy You feat. Sy Smith
4. Holding You, Loving You
5. My Flame feat. Phonte
6. Somethin Special feat. Yahzarah
7. The Highways of My Life (Pts. 1&2) feat. Darien Brockington

Bradd Marquis is BOUNCE worthy & Certifiable!

You will only hear me praise artists who music I truly support and BRADD MARQUIS is one such, soul singer. Bradd has been compared to such greats as Teddy Pendergass, the late greats Marvin Gaye and Donny Hathaway. In 2007 he was named Soul Singer of the Year on BET's 106 and Park show. In addition to Bradd's vocal chops, he is a talented actor and certainly has model good looks -- height, stature and that handsome appeal that makes women swoon. He's also a genuinely sweet, thoughtful and well-mannered gentleman.

Bradd is a pleasure to work with! It fills me with pride when I introduce his music to someone new and they immediately embrace his sound. I was overjoyed when I was informed that Bradd was going to be featured on Soul Bounce and certified as BOUNCE WORTHY! (Please click the Bounce Worthy link above for the Soul Bounce tribute) I featured Bradd on my SoulMusiqLuva podcast today (check it out)

Bradd performed Donny Hathaway's 'Song For You' on Showtime At The Apollo -- judge for yourself and determine if Donny would have been proud of his effort.



Earlier this year, we (ONUTSS) hosted a tribute to Luther Vandross on what would have been his 58th birthday at the legendary Blue Note in New York City. We were fortunate to have had Bradd as one of the featured performers. The video below is a clip of some of the songs he performed at the show.



For more information about Bradd, please visit his myspace page. And if you are interested in having Bradd perform in your town or venue/event, please contact yours truly!

Remembering Mr. Magic: A True School Pioneer

Remembering a New York legend who went on to become a global hero!
John Rivas aka Mr. Magic aka Sir Juice
Transition Date: October 2, 2009

As per NY Daily News

Rap legends from Biggie Smalls to Tupac Shakur lionized him in their verse. And now, like them, he's gone.

DJ Mr. Magic, one of hip hop's conduits to radio, died Friday of a heart attack.

Born John Rivas, he launched and hosted the first all-rap radio show in the U.S.

Titled "Rap Attack," the show debuted in 1983 on WBLS and quickly became an inspiration point for key players in hip hop. The show, which lasted six years, also featured deejay Marley Marl and Tyron (Fly Ty) Williams.

At his peak, in the mid- to late '80s, Magic had a rivalry with Kool DJ Red Alert, who had his own show on WRKS. They each had their own rap groups. Magic's Juice Crew featured such key names as Biz Markie, Roxanne Shante, Kool G. Rap and Masta Ace.

In 1992, Nas immortalized Mr. Magic in "Halftime" while Biggie name-checked him in a track called "Juicy." Tupac also mentioned the record spinner on his 1995 cut "Old School."

* * *

My personal memories --
* trying to find the best spot in my bedroom to get good reception when he was on the air on WHBI -- had to get my cassette ready for the ride the following morning to (junior high) school

* laying in bed, well after I should have been asleep (school the next morning) and hearing my mother get up during the night -- praying that she wouldn't come in my bedroom and bust me for listening to the radio

* seeing people like LL, TJ Swann and Biz Markie around town and being so star struck because Mr. Magic played their music

Courtesy of DJ OhSoKool's tweets -- these are some of the phrases that became standard when you listened to Mr. Magic on the air:

* "Oh my god I think I'm having a Rap Attack!!"

* "Any man can learn from his or her mistakes, but it takes a wise guy or gal to learn from the mistakes made by others"

* "Be yourself, or you might find yourself - by yourself - and that's no fun"

* "Persistence overcomes resistance"

WBLS here in NY had an on-air tribute to Mr. Magic on the day he died. Marley Marl was mixing some classic hotness, hip hop pioneers called in: Big Daddy Kane, MC Shan, Doctor Ice, Jay-Z and Sal from Disco Fever (<~~ wow) to share their 'magic moments' If you missed the tribute... here's a link

Certifiable Music For Your Soul #1

I revealed recently that I have put my pen down as an official reviewer of new music cds. What I have come to realize is that my words are solely my opinion, and as selective as I am about music -- it's best for me to support the music that moves me. Having said that -- and knowing that I definitely need to get back on the ball to making this blog come to life -- I'm going to begin with the first post in a long series of Certifiable Music For Your Soul! Although it truly refers to the music that moves 'my' soul -- I want to let you in on my secret audible pleasures. I don't know how often I'll post in this category because music that grooves me doesn't come in any specific frequency. Sit tight and ride with me. As always, I appreciate you taking the time to read my thoughts.

CERTIFIABLE MUSIC FOR YOUR SOUL #1

(1)
Calvin Richardson: Facts of Life: The Soul of Bobby Womack

Calvin really did his thing on this project
Check out the video for "A Woman's Gotta Have It"



(2)
J. Moss - Just James


JMoss is on Twitter and from the tweets that are being posted, besides me -- people are really feeling this new album. Already, there are a couple of cuts on this album that really stand out for me -- but nothing has moved me like "Anointing" has in quite some time.

For a preview of the new album...visit InsideJMoss.com

(3)
V: It Is Finished! The Paradox: Vol I


Although I am his Publicist, I am and have been a 'fan' first of his music. That is what brought us together. This album has evoked for those who've listened to it, many different feelings. For me, it is a complete album from start to finish.

This album is now available for purchase on Amazon and iTunes.
No library for a music lover of today's indie soul is complete without it!


Rounding out this edition are songs sprinkled here and there:

Eric Roberson & Lalah Hathaway: Dealing
Eric Roberson: Newness


Ledisi: Turn Me Loose
Say No
Goin' thru Changes


Remember to: support INDIE SOUL music makers by purchasing the music you enjoy. Not sure who's doing what?

Well, here's a gift for you from Vikter Duplaix ~ Electric Love (free download)

Until we meet again...
I wish peace & musical blessings upon you!

Feels Real Good!

 

After a wonderful weekend up in Springfield, Massachusetts at the Organix Soul showcase (get there, if you haven't experienced it) -- I touched down in New York with my favorite fellas. My love runs deep and the talent is real!

(to the left = Bradd Marquis http://www.myspace.com/braddmarquis)
(to the right = V http://www.myspace.com/vsign)

PINCH ME!!!!

Your legacy

What will your legacy be when your time here on Earth has run out? Have you given any thought to what remnants of you people will hold onto? It's funny, this topic came to mind as I spoke with a few people I know in reference to someone we know who has passed on.

What was really crazy is that when we discussed this particular individual, we all had this instantaneous look come across our faces that distinctly said, "Yeah, oh well!" with little regard. I listened to their stories about this person before chiming in to share the eventful introduction I'd had. The impression left behind of this person was to the far corner of favorable. The bottom line is that we were all in agreement that none of us would be making any serious effort to attend the homegoing service for this individual.

Let me explain, my memory of this person involves me being referred to as 'one of those bitches!' I was so caught off guard that it took a minute for me to realize that the vile words spilling out of that person's mouth was a very weak attempt at humor and were directed at me. As I write this, I am trying to be careful so as not to indicate when the person passed, what the individual's sex was or where I might know the person from because people have a tendency to read between the lines and make ill-fated assumptions. I'm not here to throw dirt on someone who can no longer defend him or herself. I am merely here to enlighten you of the lasting impression you have the ability to implant in the mind of others.

Are you boisterous, obnoxious, brazen, one who people move away from instead of draw to? (Qualities of the departed)

My family and closest friends can co-sign as I share characteristics of my own personality, good and bad. I'm loveable yet moody, perhaps the scales of my inner Libra are sometimes off-kilter *shrugging* -- I am thoughtful and considerate yet withdrawn and often a loner. God is the head of my life, yet I often pray for patience because I bore of people and circumstances very easily when the interest is depleted. I can be brutally honest and overly sensitive! *shrugging yet again*

The most important thing I want everyone to know about me is that I love my son very much -- and I couldn't make it through this life without my music.

Blessings

So I'm marinating on some things...

Time for some of my randomness to come full circle and be placed on front street! Taking the focus from the norm of my music posts. Before I begin, I am a Baptist -- I love no one deeper than I love God. I'm not always as faithful a servant to God's word as I should be. The human in me falters on a daily basis. I don't throw stones at those whose beliefs are far to the left of my own. If you believe that there is a higher calling on our lives than is way more than we can control, we can be cool.

So I'm sailing on a high right now. My very intelligent son, who skipped a grade early in his elementary years recently completed high school and was acknowledged in church today. He received a scholarship and was crowned the 2009 King of the Second Baptist Church Scholarship Committee based on the funds that were raised in his honor. His counterpart, The Queen is also a 16-year old scholar! So, our future leaders have been set on a path to greatness and I can speak for me -- I expect no shortcomings from this one here!

On another note -- I was a bit agitated around 4:30 this morning. My neighbors, who really do not know the meaning of hospitality and courtesy for those living beneath them returned home from an apparent family outing. I had to hear them walk up the stairs, put the children to bed, flush the toilet a few times -- and then the ultimate atrocity -- the creaking and squeaking of the bed! I didn't have the energy to get out of bed for my iPod -- which I typically keep near me because their three small children rise routinely at 7:30 EVERY morning! So, at this point I'm wide awake and watching the clock (just wrong, right?! >) Ten minutes passed and there was silence. Okay, some quiet and I started to drift back into slumber and before you know it the bed post was hitting the wall. Enrique had gone IN!

Now, my mind is wandering. What were they doing in the context of the silent moments? Who was doing whom? (Oh Lord, was I 'not' in church -- seeking salvation a few short hours ago?!) Then I got annoyed -- but, honestly I was annoyed because Alex was getting hers and I wasn't! Look here! God knows my heart better than I'm sure I do. HE knows that I'm tired of being by my lonesome and that I long for companionship. I've already cracked the seal of living as I move into my fourth decade.

I thank my Pastor for praying for the single women in the congregation today -- those of us who don't want to repeat the cycles that our mothers, aunties, grandmothers endured. Hell, my mother's praying for both, me and my sister in that regard.

Just some things I was tripping over today.

Pray for me ya'll :)

Can't Keep It To Myself!!

So many of my online buddies are creating some mixes that will take you back ~ make you look ahead ~ keep you rocking ~ make your head nod or just put you in a zone so totally unexpected! I can't keep this good music news to myself and wanted to share it with "you" ~ my special circle.

Here goes:

DJ 1derful - The Deep Kafe Volume 2 (http://www.dj1derful.com/)
- his page is loaded with goodies -

_______________

Raheem DeVaughn – The Art of Noise (Mixtape) (http://dj1derful.com/?p=569)

_______________

Sound Nexx Mixes (never go wrong with this brother's musical blessings)
This is what DJ Sound Nexx has to say about living: Life without music is not really living...
Rear Viewing Soul Mixx (http://usershare.net/jr3gj9b6z4q3)
Soulful Addiction Mixx (http://usershare.net/5w8zl1wvzs9c)

_______________

DJ Smoove of Chocolate Grooves has Volume 4 of his Nu-Soul Mix series available for your download pleasure
(http://djsmoove1967.podomatic.com/)

On this volume, listen to: Eric Roberson; Rashad (columbus, ohio); Daru & Reggie B. ; Chinahblac; Anthony David; L' Renee; Floetry; AFTA-1 (what up Dino!); The Fugees; dj Jazzy Jeff; Erykah Badu (Nat's gurl!); dj Mitsu ft. Dwele; Erik Rico; The Roots ft. Jill Scott; Foreign Exchange (x2); Slakah The Beatchild; Zo! & Tigallo (who da heck???)...

_______________

The following are two mixes from DJ Speed (http://theoriginaldjspeed.podomatic.com/) - I got so stuck on Summa Madnezz because it took me back to the days when I loved RAP music -- Melle Mel's "rooooooar!"

Summa Madnezz - DJ Speed
(http://www.megaupload.com/?d=HPF3JZ8J)

SummerTime -- Fresh Prince
Rock Creek Park - The Blackbyrds
Eric B for President - Eric B & Rakim
Step Off - Grandmaster Melle Mel
Summer Madness - Kool & The Gang
It's Yours - T La Rock
Jazzy Sensation - Jazzy 5
Jazz Instrumental (2 minutes.. )
Live @ the BBQ - Main Source
I Need A Beat - LL Cool J
Summertime - Janis Joplin
Before I let Go - Frankie Beverly & Maze
So What ur Saying - EPMD
Afta Party - Koffee Brown (me7ek mix)
One Thing - Amerie ft MC Lyte (me7ek mix)
One More Chance - The Jackson 5 ft Black Rob (Me7ek mix)
The Bridge - MC Shan
The Bridge is Over - BDP

Soulogy 1.0 - DJ Speed
(http://www.megaupload.com/?d=OOU4WPX1)

Staple Singers – “Stone Soul Picnic”
Erykah Badu – “Didn’t U Know”
Earth Wind & Fire feat. Raphael Saddiq – “Show Me the Way”
Isley Brothers feat Mos Def – “Groove With U” (Me7ek Blend)
Choklate – “To Whom It May Concern”
Foster Sylvers – “Misdemeanor”
SWV – “You’re the One” (Me7ek Mix)
Jill Scott – “Raheem Interlude”
Raheem DeVaughn – “Woman” (Me7ek Dumb Mix)
Commodores – “Just to Be Close to You”
Van Hunt – “Your Love”
Brighter Side of Darkness – “Love Jones”
True Love – “Love Rap Ballad”
Macy Gray ft Marsha Ambrosius – “Still Hurts”
Choklate – “Suns Out”
Erik Rico – “Lets Lay Together”
Green Tea – “Life Of a SuperStar” (Interlude)
Jamie Foxx ft T.Pain – “Blame It On” (Me7ek Mix)
Green Tea – “Who Would’ve Thought”
The Escorts – “I’ll Be Sweeter Tommorrow”
Queen Latifah – “Just Another Day” (Me7ek Mix)
Tesha Marie – “Open”
Brownstone – “Grapevine”
Shannon Sanders – “In My Mind”
Lisa Shaw – “Grown Apart (Me7ek 122bpm Mix)
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EJ Flavors - OSW Mixes
(Old School Wednesday)

Consistently on Wednesdays, you can look forward to heading over to this spot (http://ejflavors.com/) and catching a blend of music that includes jams that you may not have heard since the days you cut class as a senior in high school! (Oooo did I say that?! I wasn't talking about 'me' - I meant 'you' - pooching my lips out!!! :)

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Fave's Friday FaveCast
(http://www.fridayfavecast.com)

Like clockwork, this brother is definitely grinding!! Included in his podcast is a little comedic humor, tips on wellness and ultimately some of the best music you can only hear in the way that Fave puts it together. Check him out -- oh, check out this specific episode and then catch yourself up. It features the sounds of someone near and dear to me: http://www.fridayfavecast.com/wp/?p=490
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The Sunday Soundtrack (Vibes and Scribes)
Mellow funk - jazzing it up!
(http://www.vibesnscribes.com/)

The perfect blend for a Sunday afternoon as you look ahead to what a new week holds for you!
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My bed calls but I'd be remiss not to round out this edition with notice of one of my favorite sister groovologist's -- MiissHoneySoul! You must keep her site locked and loaded at all times because she works on the sneak attack and will post up some hotness -- or turn you on to a DJ, a mix, an opportunity to win front seats at a show coming to your town.

Keep this bookmarked with two extra special **'s : http://www.honeysoul.com/wp/
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For more info or to keep up with any of the dj's listed above:

DJ 1derful (http://www.dj1derful.com/)
DJ Sound Nexx (http://soundnexx.blogspot.com/)
DJ Smoove of Chocolate Grooves (http://djsmoove1967.podomatic.com/)
The Original DJ Speed (http://theoriginaldjspeed.podomatic.com/)
EJ Flavors (http://ejflavors.com/)
Fave's Friday FaveCast (http://www.fridayfavecast.com)
Vibes and Scribes/The Sunday Soundtrack (http://www.vibesnscribes.com)
HoneySoul (http://www.honeysoul.com/wp/)

Keep your enemies as close to you as possible, they'll make an attempt to slice your throat 'everytime'

So That's Where They Got It From, Vol. 1 http://ping.fm/N87XG