As a music lover ever since I can remember, lyrics weren’t as important to me as was a funky beat. All of that changed as I matured and paid more attention to the lyrics in a song once I started listening to music through headphones.
About ten years or ago or so, I noticed a recurring theme throughout these categories I proudly coined SeXXXy Love, It’s Complicated and Funky Fresh Covers
SeXXXy Love
Sending both direct and indirect messages, SeXXXy Love is sophisticated, dirty sexual lyrics represented in a classy language, full of euphemisms you can surely appreciate; that is if you comfortably embrace your own sexuality. This is where you get to “put your mind in the gutter”, as the play on words take you to a place where the room can get really hot!! There are definitely a few shock factors in many of the songs if you listen closely. As much as we talk trash among ourselves and our friends about sex, the manner in which the artists deliver the message in the music makes you laugh, snicker, cover your mouth and say to yourself—or out loud, ”WHAT?!!” Did he or she just say that?? This has been my reaction to a good number of the songs presented in the SeXXXy Love mixes. You would probably otherwise dismiss these songs because like me perhaps you didn’t pay a lot of attention to what was really being said. It sounds so natural, and soulful—the sensuality, such sincerity—something you definitely don’t expect—at least for me. If you hear a song you don’t feel is lyrically sexy in SeXXXy Love as I do, you can’t help but notice that the music is just as sensual as the lyrics—after all, they are soul-mates! Hence, the obligation I felt to create and present to you, the SeXXXy Love series.
See those three capitalized X’s?! You know what they stand for—sexual overtones AND undertones, freakish nasty moaning and groaning, smiling, laughing and soft air blown whispers you can clearly hear and imagine from the song, that could lead to a very SeXXXy night of SeXXXy pleasure. I ask my listeners to listen carefully so that they can get the full effect of what mood the artist is trying to elicit and wants you to receive—can you see you and your lover (actual or fantasy) in many of the scenarios the artist has created for you? I can!!
Remember that I am just the messenger 🙂
These songs have been carefully selected because of the SeXXXy lyrical content and shock factor they present. I have an extensive music library I search by keywords and have found some real gems of SeXXXiness I had no idea existed–from artists I would not expect to have found such goodies!!
These artists are versatile in their music and I find that they offer extremely SeXXXy lyrics, as well as PG-rated lyrical content. You may notice these artists are a few of my favorites as I have used their songs in more than one of my mixes or more than one song in a single mix, including: Jill Scott, Eric Benet, Rahsaan Patterson, Raheem DeVaughn, Ledisi, Maysa, Will Downing, Floetry, Ty Causey and Jon B.
Jill Scott
Eric Benet
It’s Complicated
On the flip side of SeXXXy Love, It’s Complicated is dedicated to those who don’t know where they stand in their relationship. It’s Complicated is dedicated to those who have communication issues. It’s about the things that matter and maybe the things that really don’t matter. It’s about forbidden love. It’s about either one who has been emotionally scorned in one way or another, yet still loving the one who caused that pain. It’s about falling down and getting back up.
The It’s Complicated mixes also tell stories of the world’s struggles; we are all in need of helping and healing one another. These songs will strike a chord somewhere within your soul. The artists’ delivery of the song places you right smack dab in the middle of the story they are depicting for those of us who can, in fact identify with the particular situation. You can’t help but feel their emotions—and that is one of the many splendors of music—it evokes feelings from deep down…
Ultimately, the It’s Complicated mixes are about letting it all out, they assist with acceptance and moving on with life’s ups and downs.
Rahsaan Patterson
Raheem DeVaughn
Ledisi
Maysa
Will Downing
Floetry
Ty Causey
Jon B.
Funky Fresh Covers
Another recurring theme I kept hearing in my musical journey was remakes, or as many of us now refer to them as “covers”. My take on Funky Fresh Covers dictated that I had to let my music lovin friends know that, here is a song you know, and it’s been funked up, but you may not know the artist. Which leads me to another subject matter I will discuss in another post (ONUTSS). Some of you already know…
Stay tuned for the music mixes I’ve created for yours and my listening pleasure. Also, keep a look out for my photos and video footage of many events I attended over the years.
Please enjoy and share the SeXXXy Love, It’s Complicated and Funky Fresh Covers mixes in the following posts with those you know, appreciate good music!
Do ENJOY!
The “One Nation Under The Soul Shack” Story
Do you know the herstory of ONUTSS? Some may know the inside story and others may have heard me talk about ONUTSS but not quite sure of the details.
Detrel Howell and Pamela Nichols (that’s me) co-founded ONUTSS late one night in the summer months of 2006 while comparing our calendar of planned outdoor events. Events were surely plentiful back then, up until a few years ago–sad. I will get into that in another post.
Detrel and I have a special and true passion for good music, as I am sure many of you do. However, the love we had for a particular artist, Rahsaan Patterson, brought us together in music and friendship.
BB King’s 2005 – Aqeel’s head sticking up behind the Back Row- Yolanda, Rahsaan, Marcus Middle Row -Dianne, Dana, Detrel, (not sure who this young man is) me in front of Detrel where we saw Rahsaan (this was my first time. The show I was looking forward to seeing was canceled the year before at the World Trade Center)
I joined a few online forums where I saw a post by Rahsaan’s sister on Giant Step that said there was a Yahoo group for him, which is where I met Detrel and the rest of the folks
<—pictured here.
We were all in the front row taking it all in
Rahsaan chilling with us after the show. He’s happily receiving gifts from the Rahsaaniacs
From there, Detrel invited me over to MySpace where everybody hung out–long before Facebook! This is also where all of the musicans, singers, bands, etc. had a place to share their music with folks who visited their page (I miss this feature not being available over at FB). Detrel and I knew of some of the same artists’ music and some we would turn each other on to. This exchange of music and the artists who possessed it made us discuss why there weren’t more people who knew about them and the great music they were making. It’s the same old song on the radio, then and now–that’s the reason.
We talked about the Sista Factory which was a female indie soul promotion company that produced shows at Joes Pub, NYC. Most of their focus was on female performances which is where I remember around 2004 Kelli Sae, Karen Bernod, and I believe Ledisi and Conya Doss performing. I think the Soul Factory’s events had begun to die down not long before Detrel and I met.
We thought why don’t we find a way to inform more people of all of this good stuff we were coming in contact with; we just couldn’t keep it to ourselves.
Hence Detrel and I gave birth to ONUTSS, One Nation Under The Soul Shack. We had no idea of exactly what to do with this baby but we knew something good would come of it. In August of 2006 ONUTSS scheduled a meet and greet and invited our music, mutual, personal and some new friends from MySpace.
The announcement of ONUTSS at our first event; Meet and Greet at Mocha’s – Harlem, NYC
Greg Soundz and Detrel
The Soul Brotha and Sister (Chris and Georgette Whaley l&r) from Houston visiting New York and just in time for the ONUTSS intro, with singer, Traciana Graves (middle)
Georgette, Me, Elsa, and Detrel
Carmen Michael and Bert Caldwell (Ispysoul)
Elsa Lathan (Footprints Communications) and Marko Nobles (InJoy Enterprises &RhythmAndSoulRadio.com )
Super supporters from Day 1, Kevin Harewood, Greg and Bert
George Littlejohn and Kevin Harewood, who believed in the ONUTSS brand from the very beginning imparted upon Detrel and me, sound advice, and their total support and are still our big brothers!
Jeff (Feelin U) was also with us from day 1!
The following month we received a call from our good friend Tracy Freeman and she asked us to host a listening party for singer/songwriter Choklate. And as the saying goes, “The rest is herstory.”
From September 2006 when we hosted Choklate’s listening party, every month after that we hosted parties for indie artists non-stop for almost a year!
Clyde Vanel of Vanel’s on First, ONUTSS’ first home to host our events.
The First Lady of ONUTSS Listening Parties, Choklate
Our brothers in music, Ish (Bondy’s) George Littlejohn (Purpose Records), and Kevin Harewood (EDclectic Entertainment) George and Kevin were and still are two of our greatest supporters and mentors.
Good friends Mika (Singer) and Pat
Detrel and Tom E. Morgan
The Ladies of ONUTSS, Detrel and Pam
Our good Sista friend Tracy, kicked off the ONUTSS phenomenon by introducing us to Choklate
Dexter Myers and DJ Dan CE
Detrel, George and Jeff (FeelinU) who was also a great ONUTSS supporter
That’s Dave Goodson of the NY Amsterdam News hiding behind that cap!
Myspace, word of mouth, and other soul-related outlets were huge supporters of the ONUTSS brand that helped to catapult our company to a well-respected, sought-after indie soul promotion company.
Although ONUTSS’ mission was to help shine some light on underground/indie artists, a few of the artists we worked with were established like Najee, Angie Stone KeKe Wyatt while Elisabeth Withers appeared on Broadway with The Color Purple as Shug Avery. Gordon Chambers is an award-winning/ hit-making songwriter for artists you know well like, The Isley Brothers, Witney Houston, Brownstone, and Anita Baker, to name a few. When he decided to step out on his own, ONUTSS was one of the promotion companies that worked with him on more than one occasion.
I am happy to inform you, that a few of these artists have excelled to unimaginable heights, like working with THE Prince (Liv Warfield), Grammy Award Nominee (Eric Roberson), Maroon 5 (PJ Morton) and although we didn’t work with her, Ledisi is that beauty you have seen on various award shows in the black community, who sings her face off, and grew up in the indie soul movement earned fourteen Grammy Award nominations to date, winning her first for Best Traditional R&B Performance for “Anything For You” in 2021!
Highlights from the events we hosted from 2006 – 2010:
Luther Vandross Tribute
Elisabeth Withers
Liv Warfield
Eric Roberson
PJ Morton
Keke Wyatt
Erik Rico
Marcell Russell
Tomas Doncker
To see all of the videos posted of the artists ONUTSS worked with, go here ONUTSS Videos
The SuperCruise XII: Five on the Cool Hand Side – Day 4
Day 4
Fun Day At Sea
Sea days should be relaxing since we’re at sea, right? Wrong!!
Decisions, decisions! What to do with a plethora of activities that appeal to any palate? “You can get with this or you can get with that, the choice is yours”! Artists Q&A, panel discussions, daytime concerts, card game tournaments, outdoor sports games, $2 mimosas, wine tasting with African American Wineries, African Ancestry presentations, workshops, or why not sleep in?!
First up, the Business of Music panel discussion. It was refreshing to learn that Capital Jazz invited these highly-regarded soul Website representatives and esteemed musicians to share their perspectives on the topic. On the panel, SoulTracks’ L. Michael Gipson, SoulBounce’s Kimberly Hines, saxophonist, Mike Phillips, and singer/songwriter and host, Eric Roberson. I was excited about the entire SuperCruise experience that awaited L. Michael and Kimberly since it was their first time attending.
Like SoulBounce and SoulTracks, but on a slightly different scale, my former company, ONUTSS all had a common goal, and that was to shine a light on indie artists. ONUTSS proudly supported them by hosting listening parties where most of the time, the artists were in attendance and performed a song or two. This was the perfect panel for L. Micheal and Kimberly to sit at the table and share their thoughts/opinions.
The discussion was captivating; everyone in attendance was engaged and prepared with relevant questions to follow up on towards the end (although there were plenty of distractions from other cruisers anticipating the NFC football game) 🙂
The Player Makers Bar and Arcade were brimmed to the walls’ edges with New Orleans Saints and Los Angeles Rams fans!
On the way to my cabin, I passed by Raul Midon’s Q&A at The Schooner bar and stopped long enough to hear Bluey offer to collaborate with Raul in the near future; stay tuned for this music lovers; I’m sure it will be a stunner!!
Getting ready for the big event as I used the light from my photography equipment and the garbage can for the mirror to apply my makeup🤗
I PREDICTED THE BLACK PANTHER THEME!
Since Capital Jazz’s usual travel time of the year was switched to January, they needed a theme where folks would keep their creative juices flowing. In the past, we traveled around Halloween so you can imagine the costumes that cruisers showed up and out wearing at that time!
My Crusin Cousins!
The Judges: Reggie Reg, Stepp Steward, Ingrid B., and Michael Colyar
Scenes from the competition for best costume
I was thrilled for Down to the Bone’s appearance despite the fact that I’ve seen them perform more times than I can count… I don’t think the main theatre was suited for their performance although it was good if the majority of the audience were not familiar with them. DTTB was begging people to get up and dance to their funky jazz grooves, but no one was having it! They were waiting for Incognito! My experience with DTTB is that they’ve always provided a party atmosphere, mostly on NYC cruises around the city where their fans know how they roll! They don’t need to request real fans to shake a leg because their happy feet are already thumping on the dancefloor!
Chantae Cann was a guest on the 2013 SuperCruise and like Jarrod Lawson, I’d never heard of her. They were both on the Soul Session stage and that’s where I discovered their brilliant gifts. I was disappointed I missed their shows that year but happy as hell I got the chance to redeem myself!
As I continued to follow Chantae, I stumbled upon her video with Snarky Puppy from their Family Dinner album, featuring her song
Free Your Dreams. I fell in love with it and the whole video vibe! check it out here.
I can’t help myself! I love them!
Incognito is one of my favorite bands, and I have seen their show countless times, yet I debated on whether I should see it one more time. Well, that debate was short lived. I always enjoy them each and every time!
Their album catalog spans over 40 years and I need to understand, in general, why artists don’t vary their setlist more. Will somebody kindly explain this to me🤔 There are so many great songs I want to hear live but then again, I’m only one person…
By now, it must be evident that The Soul Session hosted by Eric Roberson is one of my favorite SuperCruise musical experiences! You never know which artist will participate or what ERRO might say or do, and you damned sure don’t want to miss this! Solo artists as well as group members of featured bands, etc., take the stage and perform their favorite cover song. All the artist needs to do is tell the Jerry Brooks band what to play and it’s a done deal!
If you viewed the video below just in case you were wondering, Kenny Lattimore hit the hell out that high note at the end of EWF’s Reasons! And dammit I missed it on camera; I thought it was still recording…
Claude McKnight sang El DeBarge’s All This Love and admitted he was terrible with lyrics. Check out his background singers, assisting him and snickering at the same time😁
I didn’t get his name, however, a singer from the Secret Society band saaaang Luther’s A House is Not a Home. I didn’t get the woman’s name who sang Gladys Knight’s Neither One of Us either; however, you can hear Eric say it at the end of the song, I just couldn’t make out what he said.
Spur of the Moment, resident Capital Jazz band finally had their own show. Although I missed it, I was happy for them. I was however corrected when I mentioned it to one of the band members, who said they always have their own show when they do the tribute shows, that didn’t take place this year. I always look forward to them…
A quick look back!
Stay tuned for Day 5
The SuperCruise XII: Five on the Cool Hand Side – Day 3
Day 3
Labadee Haiti
Saturday, January 19
In the months prior to the cruise, Capital Jazz solicited donations from cruisers to contribute school supplies for Haiti’s children. The response was overwhelmingly beautiful! Whoever didn’t make efforts to bring supplies from home made sure they stopped by a store in Ft. Lauderdale to purchase them. I contributed extra pencils and markers from my coloring collection and it felt good knowing the supplies Capital Jazz collected were going to help those children in need.
The Artisans Market huts were crammed with clothing, carved wood items, jewelry, canes/sticks, purses, boxes, and plenty of vibrant, organically created music-themed paintings on canvas. It was phenomenal to see so many transactions taking place with folks enjoying their exchange.
These guys were incredible!
You may be familiar with Will Downing’s song, Don’t Talk to Me Like That; well, meet the man who wrote it and sings it at his shows as well. Then you’ll relate their baritones and realize why Will was the perfect match to record it.
“I love the potential we have to introduce Gourmet artists to fast-food buyers” Vinx
Kenny Lattimore, the dapper don with his sangin self, knows he can breathe life into a song and WOW an audience! The backing vocalists are no joke either; look at Jason Morales’ face, lol!
I surprised myself by breezing through Studio B to see The Floacist; as usual, every night is filled with shows. I only sat in on a couple of songs and thoroughly enjoyed the time I spent soaking it all in…
The Floacist speaking nothing but truths!
I discovered while chatting with someone that Citrus Sun is actually the brainchild of founder/frontman, Bluey of Incognito, and they’ve been on the scene for more than 20 years. Had I not received this info, I would have missed their jam-session styled performance. Bluey and the gang, mostly members of Incognito were busy bodies on this cruise! They also performed as Incognito, one of my favorite bands!
A quick look back!
The Capital Jazz SuperCruise 2021 cause 2020 is sold out!
The SuperCruise XII: Five on the Cool Hand Side – Day 2
Day 2
Friday, January 18, 2019
Fun day at Sea
One of the things I really love about capital jazz in comparison to other musical themed cruises is that there is more than just jazz. Since I am familiar with the Indie Soul Movement via my co-founding of One Nation Under The Soul Shack, affectionately known as ONUTSS, many of the Soul Lounge artists I am either familiar with or have hosted their listening parties in New York.
Hence, when Capital Jazz presents artists I am unacquainted with, like Secret Society, Black Violin, Jarrod Lawson, Chante Cann, Moonchild, Butterscotch, and Matthew Whitaker, just to name a few; it broadens my horizon and allows me to share excellent talent with my readers. These artists’ music you won’t find on your local radio station, which is why many believe good music rests in the past. I’m a witness, great music LIVES and BREATHES!
The weather was a little breezy but the sun was prominent enough to allow for some tanning and getting down with the Secret Society Party Band! It was like rocking to a DJ set but with live instruments. They tore the invisible roof off the sucka!
Sy Smith was having a ball partying with Secret Society and posing for Jeffery! I was watching from below and wanted to be up there with them shooting her! Sy was in her element…
I’ve been wanting to see The Baylor Project for quite some time and finally had the chance to see them do their thing, and they made me proud I was in the room taking in all that goodness! What a beautiful couple they are who creates incredible music together. You may remember Jean Baylor from the duo, Zhane (Hey Mr. DJ).
Running into my favorite artists and chatting it up a bit is priceless!
Not so good shot, however, we had fun!
Sheila E invited audience members to the stage to party with her after she paid homage to Prince!
A quick look back
The SuperCruise XII: Five on the Cool Hand Side – Day 1
Day 1
Thursday, January 17, 2019
Sail Off
Here’s how the day began after we left the hotel, heading for the ship…
Michael Colyar, the CJ ambassador has made lasting friendships with many repeat cruisers. Every time he enters a space his energy lights it up beyond sight. People who can’t see him can definitely hear the commotion, realize who it is and a burst of laughter engulfs the room. This is what happened at the buffet while getting our grub on. Hugs smiles and laughter ensued when a group of ladies and Michael spotted each other; it was like a family reunion! Actually, anytime Michael enters a space this is what happens.
We were supposed to sail at 4:30 and didn’t depart Ft. Lauderdale until around 6:30 due to clearance of the most important subject–sound and lights. I don’t think anyone cared because this was going on…
About Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas
-
- Checking in online and submitting a photo prior to boarding was genius
- Our cabin was a door away from the promo room and allowed me to interact with the staff, especially Selina 🙂
- Card scan instead of dipping it into the computer when departing/boarding the ship made it “smooth sailing”
- Upon arrival onto the ship, the RC rep told us we couldn’t go to our cabins until they made the announcement that they were ready–as we boarded, they made the announcement 🙂
- Keys were ready for us in an envelope, outside the cabin door
- Pizza till 3 a.m.
- $2 Mimosas on day 4
Checking in at the terminal where a Royal Caribbean rep directed us to the Artists’ check-in counter–sweet!
Getting all this sound/light equipment on the ship and approved was quite a task!
Royal Caribbean–impressive down to the food…
No mix and mingle at a designated hotel this year; the sail away party was on and poppin! Celebrated his 70th birthday while we were at it!
First up Jarrod Lawson with Micah Robinson, Tahirah Memory and Oweleo Lysette
Pat Prescott, Mike Phillips, and his band. That soundboard looks mighty interesting!
The food and service on this beautifully designed dining room were impeccable! Many cruisers chose to take the same seating and wait staff each night!
End of a long day 1…
The Super Cruise XII: Five on the Cool Hand Side
What can I say after my fifth sailing with the Capital Jazz Organization? I have not felt compelled to acknowledge another organization’s music event as I have with Capital Jazz. The organization always provides a variety of artists I may not be familiar with, which is why I appreciate that they give artists another platform to attain a new fan base. Even though I support a myriad of indie artists, my musical horizon is always broadened by attending the SuperCruise.
We set sail on January 17th and our Ports of call were Labadee Haiti, Roatan Honduras, Belize, and Cozumel Mexico. Over the next eight days, the weather did not cooperate by giving me the golden tan I desired before returning to below ‘0 temperatures in NYC. Even Florida was windy sailing out of port and a bit cooler upon our return.
The excitement and countdown began in 2017 when Capital Jazz announced the 2019 cruise. While I excitedly awaited the talent line-up announcements, I can’t be certain if my appetite is satisfied with Capital Jazz feeding the artists to us ala carte or if they should serve them all on one platter. One thing is for sure, getting the announcements piecemeal drives me crazy; however, it might be just as well for me to be kept waiting since this is what I’m used to; I’d have nothing to keep running over to the website for and get excited every time an artist or two is added 😊
This Super Cruise was no different than others in the sense of being jam-packed with activities galore and shows featuring many of my favorite artists I’d never get to see in one week, like Jon B, Stokley, New Edition’s Ralph Tresvant and Johnny Gill, Teddy Riley and friends (Guy and Black street f/Dave Hollister), Gregory Porter, Sheila E, and the legendary SOS Band to name a few…
Highlighting a few key moments and events—from day one, with Frances Jaye welcoming everyone on board with those silky, smooth soul, sounds to the sail away party with Doug E Fresh and DJ D Nice, all of the performances in between, to the last night with DJ Tanz, the ship rocked–and I mean ROCKED! The ship rocked waaaay too much on the way to Honduras and a bit less on to Belize the next night. My belly was doing overtime flips.
It was a pleasant surprise to see some of the indie soul outlets represented on this cruise like Chris Rizik and L. Michael Gipson of SoulTracks.com, and Kimberly Hines of SoulBounce.com who review music, inform and support numerous artists on their Websites that have graced many of the Capital Jazz stages.
L. Michael Gipson and Chris Rizik of SoulTracks.com
Kimberly Hines of Soulbounce.com
Sunday was filled with football fans at the NFC Championship viewing party, events like The Business of Music panel discussion and a lovely celebration of African Heritage with the Wakanda themed night, where most of us participated by getting dressed in our garb, we portrayed the Kings and Queens we ARE!
Wakanda Night
In addition to young, fresh, banging artists I was not familiar with like Butterscotch who blew a lot of our minds with her multi-musical gifts and Matthew Whitaker who took the audience to church and sold out his CDs, made a lasting impact on many! I can’t recall which show it was where he was absolutely engaged and digging the keyboardist at someone else’s show. Just a beautiful sight!
It seems like everyone I’ve mentioned the Silent Disco to so far have heard of it except me. When I arrived at the Sky Lounge to participate, I had about ten minutes and it was over, yet so very cool while it lasted! No music in the air, just music in your ear! Everyone received a pair of headphones, danced and sang to the music they heard in their ears and that’s the way the music played!
The Secret Society Party Band played the pool deck as the sun shined and the wind blew hard and fast. That didn’t keep us from having a grand time! Some of the other activities included Wine Tasting, Paint and Sip, and Salsa Dancing. Everyone needs some laughter in their lives and the good word to renew the spirit. Comedians Bruce Bruce, Melanie Carmacho and JB Smoove fulfilled their duties and Richard Smallwood spread the gospel far and wide! The Hip-Hop show with Doug E. Fresh, and Slick Rick and surprise guest Roxanne Shante, turned Studio B into a 90’s party where no one had a care in the world; it was beautiful to witness and overall good feeling to see so many people on their feet, having a great time!
Roxanne Shante
Members of the legitimate bald head community (males and females) attended the Bald Head Convention hosted by funny man, Michael Colyar. Don’t ask what it’s all about because they don’t tell 🙂
Who attends a show starting at 12:30 am? Everyone who wanted to see Babyface, that’s who! Where do you go clubbing beginning at 2 a.m.? Back in the day, NYC after hours spots would open around the same time, but this here is on a whole other level! Besides, where else are you going the next morning? Not to work, that’s for sure!
One of the most beautiful sights during this cruise is seeing artists who are fans of their peers, enjoying each other’s performances. The best is that impromptu moment! You have to be there to witness it when they are joined on the stage making magic happen!
The Capital Jazz organization works hard to include activities throughout the trip that appeals to guests who belong to specialized groups including fraternities/sororities and the military. Sea days are crammed with lots to do! If you like healthy cooking, dance exercises, yoga, participating in artists Q&As, music/comedy related workshops, costume night, a music/artist theme or preselected color to wear on designated nights, you can’t go wrong with all this fun–then there are dinner and the concerts… Whooo!
After attending a few of these cruises I became familiar with a few of the regulars. I missed your presence this year, everyone!
D Maurice “DMo”, vocalist with Eric Roberson
Samir Moulay, Soul Lounge guitarist
Steve Smith, Soul Lounge vocalist
Robert “WaWa” LeGrand, guitarist with various artists
Spur of the Moment tribute show (I missed the Funkology show where some of the featured artists joined in on their stage!)
The Smoove Grooves Series
This post has been in draft for three years, now. At the time, I’d published the first Smoove Grooves volume, and that was my first attempt at trying something new, more upbeat. Since then I ‘ve mixed an additional three Smoove Groove mixes and I am pretty pleased with the results of these mixes.
I usually create sultry, sensual mixes; this time I created an uptempo mix, with Smoove Grooves that will have your head noddin’ and body-rockin’. You can get your SeXXXy dance on with this mix too–hint, hint, lol! 🙂 The Music Minded Manic post details the sultry, sensual and SeXXXy Love theme, where you’ll get a better picture of what I’m talking about…
One more thing; many of my mix posts include my photos or video footage of the featured artists from a performance I attended; none here, so I just added a few of the artists’ videos via YouTube.
Enjoy!
Smoove Grooves – Vol. I
1. Breaking It Down – Petalpusher f/Ledisi
2. Children of the Sun – Positive Flow f/Heidi Vogel
3. Stillness Meets Me – Projections
4. Koko +Lee Roe – Mark de Clive-Lowe
5. Heaven Pt. 2 – Mark de Clive-Lowe
6. Youth [Intro] – Soul: ID
7. Stay With Me – (Grooveman Spot Remix) Platinum Pied Pipers
8. Breaking It Down – Liquid Spirits f/Raffaela
9. One the One – Roy Hargrove f/Renee Neufville
10. Perfect Sky – Reel People
11. Beauty & Sin – Soul:ID
12. Sex, Love, and Philosophy – Soul:ID
13. Know Your Name – Dwele
14. Get Ta Steppin – Hi-Tek w/Mos Def & Vinia Mojica
15. Earth Wind and Fire – Val Watson
16. Jimmy Down – Dwele
17. Searchin’ (Vibey Ayers Mix) – Steve Wallace
18. Feel That Music – Slakah the Beatchild
Liquid Spirits – Higher Ground
A few years ago I found this video just browsing and fell in love!
Courtesy of Pure Jazz
Heidi Vogel
Discovered Heidi from my Sista, Tracy who shared some really good music with me a few years ago. I love Children of the Sun where Heidi’s voice is featured on the second track of this mix!
Courtesy of Isabella Magalona
Roy Hargrove and Renee Neufville – On the One
I love this live version better than the studio’s
Courtesy of Renee Nuefville
Soul:ID – Love of My Life
I’m sorry this group broke up. This entire album is fantastic!
Courtesy of uduinc
Steve Wallace Sings La Donna E Mobile
I’m impressed by Steve’s talent on this piece! Pleasantly surprised to have found it.
Courtesy of Steve Wallace
Mark de Clive-Lowe
Gotta love this man! So damned talented!
Courtesy of Mark de Clive-Lowe
Oh wait, I found one of my videos!
Ledisi’s voice is featured on Breaking It Down, the first track. Her name is not listed on the original track and when I heard it, I knew it was her. Had to google it to make sure I saw her name associated with this song, which I’ve loved ever since I first heard it!
Ledisi performs Higher Than This at her CD Release Party, for Turn Me Loose
Smoove Grooves – Vol. II
1. Sound of the City Band – Sumthing 2 Ride 2
2. Marcus D -Titania
3. Mark De Clive-Lowe – Heaven
4. Miguel Migs f/Lisa Shaw – Give Me Something
5. JSoul f/Deborah Bond – High
6. Music Soulchild – Stop Playing
7. Soulive f/Ekene Nwokiye- Arruga de Agua
8. Jimpster – Closer
9. Foreign Exchange – Body
10. Lovebirds- You Give Me
11. Mark De Clive Lowe – Day by Day
12. A Forrest Mighty Black – Fresh in my Mind
Smoove Grooves – Vol. III
1. Jarrod Lawson – Music and It’s Magically Ways
2. Kool & Clean – Without You
3. Bebel Gilberto – Aganju
4. Leon King – Lizard Lude
5. Root Soul f/Leon King – Dream Come True
6. Slakah The Beatchild – Some Beats
7. Hill St. Soul – Feel Good Factor
8. Mark DeClive-Lowe f/Nia Andrews – Hooligan
9. Gotan Project – Last Tango In Paris
10. Down To The Bone – London Life
11. Liquid Spirits – Higher Ground
12. Mark DeClive-Lowe
13. Rasiyah – U Better Run
14. Praful – Sonar
Vol. IV. Butta Beats
1. Najai Soul – Just Relax
2. Negghead – Build It Up
3. Jazmine Sullivan – Music
4. Electric Wire Hustle – Thank You Steve
5. Janet Jackson – No Sleep
6. Mellowtune – Potatohead People
7. Tall Black Guy – Sweet Europe
8. Jamie Hawkins – Lost My Mind
9. Amp Fiddler – Dream in (Radio Version)
10. Slakah the Beatchild f/Devine Brown – Get Down Right
11. Atjazz f/Sarah Jane Morris – Fantasy
12. D’Influence f/T Money – Midnight Feel da Funk Remix
13. George Michael – Too Funky
14. Butts Fat Vibes – Slakah The Beatchild
15. Angela Johnson – All I Need
16. Foreign Exchange – Nic’s Groove
The It’s Complicated Series
How else do you define love when so many extenuating circumstances are present in a relationship… AND, still BE IN LOVE?
Jada Pinkett Smith said it best “Love can be exhilaratingly euphoric and exhaustingly annoying.”
The It’s Complicated theme of songs is dedicated to those who are confused about where they stand in their relationship and those who do not openly communicate on a consistent basis. It’s about the things that really matter, it’s about infidelity, a scorned woman, and a man in love who recognizes her worth, it’s about being hurt, yet still loving the one who caused that hurt. It’s about falling down and getting back up.
Love is… All of this. And then some:
Faithful/Unfaithful
Selfish
Giving
Nurturing
The art of communication or, lack thereof…
Greed
Deceit
Trust/distrust
Heartbreak
Worth
Love is a cure for heartache Moonchild (Cure)
Regret
Conclusion
Vulnerability
Honesty
Devoid of…
Emotions
Extraordinary
Evolving
Forgiving
Dealbreakers
Generous
Passive
Romance
Love
Understanding
Aggressive
Patience
Looking beyond the clouds of doubt
Assertive
Amazement
Happiness
Supportive
Excitement
Dependable
Clingy
Love is a conflict, competition, and violence to our longing and desire for love. There are many kinds of love that give shape and meaning. How do you actively love, how can you tell if someone loves you? Love is and remains a mystery – Excerpts from Chester Gregory’s “Initializing”
Ultimately, Love is about acceptance and moving forward.
And the lust, oh I meant list goes on…
It’s Complicated Vol. I
Marcell and the Truth – Maybe I’m Not the Man
Lamone – Disgusted
Cheryl Pepsii Riley – Damn!
Mint Condition – Falling Apart
Chaka Khan – You Can Make the Story Right
Milira – Three is a Crowd
Kenny Latimore – Trial Separation
Avani – Best Friend’s Lover
Darien Brockington – He Will Break Your Heart
Faith Evans – Get Over You
Rogiers – Hollywood Story
Javier – Beautiful You Are
Junior – Stop Fanning the Fire
Jill Scott – Lonely When You’re Around – Jill Scott
Darien Brockington – (Interlude)Lover and Friend
It’s Complicated Vol. II
1. Chester Gregory – Initializing
2. Havana – Tangled
4. Koffee Brown – Chick on Da Side –
5. Gaelle – Parkway
6. Bilal – Sometimes
7. Leela James – Mistreating Me
8. Leela James – My Joy
9. Carol Riddick – You Better Not Hurt Me
10. Rachelle Farrell – Nothing in the Middle –
11. Kenny Latimore Make Believe
12. Kem – Missing Your Love
It’s Complicated III
1. Carmen Rodgers – Bittersweet (Interlude)
2. Jill Scott – Insomnia
3. Carmen Rodgers – Tell Your Story
4. Chester Gregory – If Only
5. Leon King – Faze
6. Marcell and the Truth – I’m Coming Home
7. N’Dambi – Ooo Baby
8. Trina Broussard – Not Around
9. D’Angelo – Shit Damn Motherfucker
10. Laurnea – Still Come Back to You
11. Leon King – Remedy
12. Mint Condition f/Phonte (Lil Brother) – Somethin
13. Gordon Chambers – Never Fall in Love Again
14. Foreign Exchange – All or Nothing
It’s Complicated IV
1. Kenny Lattimore – Interlude: Introspective Mood
2. Will Downing – Don’t Talk to me Like That
3. Ty Causey – Place in Your Heart
4. Jade – Do You Want Me
5. Rahsaan Patterson – Do You Feel The Way I Do
7. Angela Johnson f/Lisala – Walkin
8. Leigh Jones – Sick of Fools
9. Angela Johnson f/Trisha Angus and Lisala – Crying Over You
9. Jill Scott – Only You
10. Mary J. Blige – Seven Days
11. Laurnea – Still Come Back 2 U
12. Leon King – Remedy
13. Gordon Chambers – Never Fall in Love Again
14. Chico DeBarge – No Guarantee
15. Soul: ID – Sex, Love and Philosophy
It’s Complicated V (Cupid’s Hunt)
1. Ultra Nate – Twisted
2. Ivana Kotov – Alone Without You
3. Swamp 82 f/Nina Provencal – Falling
4. Mike Phillips f/Natalie “Floacist” Stewart- Fallin
5. Rogiers – The Reason
6. Damon Cooper – I Love You
7. Liv Warfield – Feeling Lonely
8. Jill Scott – Only You
9. Jonz (Kameron Korvet) – Situation
10. Rosie Gaines – Closer Than Close
11. Ann Nesby – If You Love Me
12. Carleen Anderson – Stories
It’s Complicated Vol. VI
1. Koffee Brown – (Intro)
2. Cleveland Jones – Sensitive
3. Frank McComb – Better off Without You
4. Laurnea – Doesn’t Matter
5. Maysa – Prelude (to What About Our Love)
6. Liv Warfield – I Decided
7. Eric Benet – When You Think of Me
8. Mikki Howard – If You Still Love Her
9. Ty Causey – I’ll Wait for You
10. Rahsaan Patterson – Sometimes (You gotta let go) instrumental and vocal
11. N’Dambi – Broke My Heart
12. Sinclair – Stay With Me
13. Eric Benet – She’s My Lady
14. Carol Riddick – I Don’t Wanna
15. Marcus Johnson f/Alyson Williams – Morning Light
It’s Complicated VII
1. Chrisette Michele Interlude (In My Heart-Convo with Boyfriend) and Mint Condition Believe (Reprise)
2. Noel Gourdine – Sorry
3. Spur of the Moment -Candlelight
4. Janita – Life Goes On
5. Carl Thomas – Get You Back (Interlude)
6. Roy Ayers – Gotta Find a Lover
7. Najee f/Sisaundra Emotional
8. Sy Smith – I’ll Always Come Back
9. Eric Benet Fun and Games
10. Will Downing – Do You Still Love Me
11. Lindsey Webster – Walk Away
12. Cheryl Pepsii Riley – No, But I Want to So Bad
13. Chrisette Michele – Interlude (In My Bed Sleeping)
14. Faith Evans – Stay
15. Jon B – What in the World
16. Physics – Holdin’ On
17. Mint Condition – Believe
What is Love? / What Love Is.
I’m Back! With the definition of
L O V E… I think ☺
Mixcloud is where my mixes reside, and a new supporter has been in communication lately, leaving comments filled with thoughts, opinions, and appreciation of my song selections, and the support has sparked a fire in me!
As artists often create music and lock it up in a vault for whatever reason; I too have unpublished mixes I’ve been holding on to for years… I’ve been enjoying them for my own entertainment, perhaps thinking they needed rearranging, commentary, drops? Who knows?
Well, I decided it was time for me to release them– pretty much as is…
I’ve posted five mixes about love, in addition to a new but old, Funky Fresh Covers IV: The Upbeats and a brand new House Music mix A Taste of Suga’s House.
Below are the latest published mixes and the playlists that tell the story of LOVE–Whether my mixes are “Addictive Love” or “It’s Complicated“, they damned sure channel that “SeXXXy Love” vibe!
Many of the tracks incorporate situations where love is in limbo, however, are all akin to grooves I love within these associated themes. Love has as many negative connotations as positives. No matter the situation, this is some Grown and SeXXXy shit!
Now, let’s break it down, shall we?
Addictive Love
The artists that produced these songs included in the Addictive Love mix, are depicting a strong desire to never leave the relationship, or get it back on track after mistreatment, etc., hence why I selected these songs and themed mix titles.
1. Ty Causey So Addicted
2. Dennis Taylor Feeling Good
3. Frank McComb Never Letting Go
4. Conya Doss What I’d Do for You
5. Janita I Can’t Get Enough of You
6. Kem Without You
7. Laurnea Can’t Let Go
8. Ann Nesby I Can’t Get Over You
9. Incognito Can’t Get You Out of My Head
10. Liquid Spirits f/Melodee No One
11. Darien Brockington Can We Fall in Love Again
12. Janelle Monae Can’t Live Without Your Love
13. Rosie Gaines I Can’t Get You Off My Mind
14. Ty Causey Without You
15. Mary J. Blige Can’t Get You Off My Mind
What is Love?
We think we do, but really don’t know What Love Is, do we? These songs and their artists offer perspectives and experiences on love’s definition. In there lies a story…
1. Vivian Green What Is Love
2. Lalah Hathaway This Could Be Love
3. N’Dambi Can This Be Love
4. Marilyn Scott f/Frank McComb You Don’t Know Love
5. Anthony Hamilton I Know What Love Is All About
6. Robert Glasper Let’s Fall in Love
7. Ivana Kotov Should I Call It Love
8. Zo! f/Yahzarah If This is Love
9. Eric Roberson What Is Love Made Of
10. Donna Gardia & M-Swift Love Is
11. Jon Bibbs Found Love
12. Nahjai Soul Easy to Love
13. The Floacist This Love
14. Zo! f/Chantae Cann All Is Well With Love
What Love Is: The Matrimony
What Love Is, is man’s and woman’s initial attraction, the newness of each other’s company, learning one another and all of that, eventually transcends into to a commitment–with marriage lurking around the corner 😍 This mix entails a great love story!
1 Interlude (Faith) Faith Evans
2 Got to Find a Way Frank McComb
3 Maybe Kelli Sae
4 All Because of You Conya Doss
5 Every Little Thing Chaka Kahn
6 Love Thang Rena Scott
7 I’m in Love Kem
8 Everything I Do Beyonce f/Bilal
9 You Are My Joy Faith
10 No One Else Amel Larrieux
11 I Believe in Love Leon Ware
12 SoulMate Iman Williams f/AB
13 Best Friend Tweet f/Bilal
14 So Grateful Jeff Bradshaw f/Coco
15 The Matrimony Rhonda Thomas f/Alex Lattimore
16 We are One Ledisi f/Rahsaan Patterson
SeXXXy Love: Sweet and Happy
And after all of that, SeXXXy Love Vol. Sweet & Happy is an up-tempo, yet sweet, SeXXXy, and happy love mix that makes me smile inside and out. Some of the tracks have that SeXXXy component to it, although not so rated semi “X” as a few of my other mixes. This story is more about the happy and sweet element of love.
Tamia Leave It Smokin
Jill Scott f/Anthony Hamilton So In Love
Will Downing f/Roy Ayers Lovers Melody
Renee Neuville Watching Me
Deborah Bond You Are The One
Kelli Sae Found Somebody Like You
Inner Shade Tell Me Something
Stevie Wonder My Love is on Fire
Terri Walker Forever and a Day
Zo! Holding You, Loving You
Rahsaan Patterson You Make Life So Good
Gil Small (RIP) Heaven
Teena Marie f/Howard Hewitt Lover’s Lane
Faith Evans Love Song
Cupid’s Hunt – The 10th Anniversary Celebration Special
Welcome to the 10th Anniversary for the Cupid’s Hunt Podcast Collaboration! Over a year later😑
I’m so elated and excited to present to you my contribution mix, the 12th volume of my SeXXXy Love series, exclusively for the CHPC Valentine’s Day offering. I was on time with my mix, but super late with the post. There’s no right or wrong time for love music so I hope you enjoy whenever you listen…
It was a real treat for me to create this mix!
Playlist
B. R. Burns – Freak
I happened to look in a space around the house where I keep CDs and an unexpected find stumbled into my hands. A cd I’d purchased over 15 years ago by BR Burns, a Spoken word artist, introduced by Michael Baisden set the SeXXXy with his piece, Freak!
I was in the Divas and a Don book club at work. Members of the group included one male to the rest females, hence the name. And, long before Wendy Williams’ club from her radio show on KISS FM in NYC. We attended one of Michael Baisden’s book signings at the Barnes and Noble in the Bronx, Coop City store, and B.R. Burns accompanied him. How appropriate was it for me to find his cd to kickoff SeXXXy Love XII?!
Raheem DeVaughn – Temperature’s Rising
Marsha Ambrosius (Floetry) Anticipation (Intro)
I’ve used their songs on a few of my mixes–Raheem DeVaughn and Marsha Ambrosius–can always be counted on to bring the SeXXXy I’m looking for to include in my mixes! #thatisall
Eric Nolan Grant (The O’Jays)- Cologne
I had the opportunity to meet 1/3 of the legendary O’Jays, Eric Nolan Grant on the 2016 Capital Jazz SuperCruise! I purchased his CD on the ship and found this gem, Cologne that fits perfectly with the SeXXXy Love concept. Cologne is my favorite track off of the Mood Swing album.
Chante Moore – Love the Woman
Chante Moore’s Love the Woman album I’ve had since it was released and ONUTSS hosted a listening party for the album. I decided to take a listen (damned shame it took me so long). Once again, I found a diamond!
Just a Few Cats – Dance With Me
Just a Few Cats’ Dance With Me I wanted to use a long time ago but never found the right placement. This was right on time! I had the pleasure of sitting in on a live performance while in Birmingham, Alabama, (my birthplace and where they hail), and met one of the band members from their website prior to the show. Just a Few Cats is also the band Ruben Studdard was a member of before he became an American Idol!
Carol Riddick f/Will Downing – The Way You Say My Name
Carol Riddick is a musical force to be reckoned with and if you don’t know her, you need to get busy and catch up! Look at that photo, Carol is SANGIN! She’s amazing! Will Downing, the consummate Chocolate Swooner has also graced a few of my mixes. Here, he joins Carol, who is also an assistant vocalist at many of his live shows. The Way You Say My Name is a SeXXXy duet that further escalates the mood for lust!
Avery Sunshine – Sweet Afternoon
Avery Sunshine’s Sweet Afternoon is also a fun time for lovemaking! I’d been saving this song for a future mix and yes, it made it!
Gerald Levert – Good Morning
Gerald Levert was artistic, to put it mildly, yet blunt with his SeXXXy, and I love it! He was so cunning, his soulful self! Those lyrics probably went straight over your head if you’re weren’t paying close attention to them during his heyday. Here’s your chance to revisit Gerald’s SeXXXy!
Nicki Richards – In Bed (Interlude)
As I’ve shared before, I scour my music library to find songs that fit into my style of SeXXXy and In Bed was a hit! I also learned that Nicki Richards sang with popular artists like Whitney Houston, Madonna, and Michael Jackson, to name just a few.
Esnavi – How Beautiful Is He
Dewayne Alston of Soul City Radio afforded me a wonderful opportunity to interview Esnavi for Razors Edge Magazine and she was a delight! Esnavi has the vocal chops you definitely need to keep your ears in tuned to –watch and listen out for her!
Komplex – Erotic Spoken Word Artist
This dude right here, had the ladies on the edge of their seats with just a bit of word artistry to advertise the late show! This piece is a smidge of what was to come later on that night with Ingrid B. and her lineup spoken word artists.
Gerald Levert – Wear It Out
Need I say more???
Lenora Jaye – Do You Wanna
Prophet Jones – Can I Take You Home
My extensive music library brought me to LeNora Jaye and Prophet Jones’ album and landed me on their songs to round out my SeXXXy theme!
Brandon Williams f/Joi Tiffany – You Make Love Real
I love supporting independent soul artists and Brandon Williams is a drummer/producer who has comprised a slew of accomplished artists like Alex Isley, Robert Glasper, Nicholas Payton, Frank McComb, Jesse Boykins III, Geno Young, Pharoahe Monch, Don Blackman, Li’l John Roberts, Matt Cusson, Choklate (first ONUTSS featured artist), Casey Benjamin, Moonchild to complete his album, XII. You Make Love Real is one of my favorites and fit right into this SeXXy theme!
Terrance Martin – Ecstasy
Terrace’s Ecstacy I found by chance on youtube and fell in love with it! After researching him further, I discovered he is a singer, songwriter, record producer, and actor who has also worked with prominent artists in the music industry, including Kendrick Lama, Snoop Dogg, Stevie Wonder, Charlie Wilson, and Raphael Saadiq among others. Another talent to keep your eyes and ears on.
The Sight of Sound by Sista Suga 