by Jesse Swindell | Aug 17, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Renowned singer-songwriter Snoh Aalegra continues to mesmerize audiences with her latest single “Sweet Tea,” a soul-stirring ballad that follows in the wake of her recent release “Be My Summer.” Known for her emotive and captivating melodies, Aalegra’s music resonates deeply with listeners, and “Sweet Tea” is no exception to this trend.
The Swedish artist also made waves in August 2022 with her viral rendition of Bobby Caldwell’s iconic 1987 track “What You Won’t Do For Love,” aptly titled “Do 4 Love.” Aalegra’s ability to infuse her unique style into classics showcases her timeless appeal and creative versatility.
In an insightful interview with Eddie Francis of Apple Music 1, Aalegra delved into the inspiration behind “Sweet Tea” and her approach to sharing her music with the world. The artist described the single as “spiritual,” indicating that the song’s essence reaches beyond the surface, touching the depths of emotions and experiences.
One of the driving forces behind the magic of “Sweet Tea” is none other than Grammy-winning music producer No I.D. With an illustrious career that includes collaborations with music icons like Jay-Z, Kanye West, Rihanna, and many others, No I.D.’s influence on the track is palpable. Aalegra shared that working with this “incredible musician” was pivotal in bringing the song to life. The creative synergy between the two artists is evident, as Aalegra described the process as a collective endeavor where inspiration flowed seamlessly in the studio.
Aalegra’s musical journey has consistently showcased her dedication to crafting heartfelt ballads that resonate with a wide range of listeners. Her 2021 album “Temporary Highs in the Violet Skies” was a testament to this, featuring poignant tracks like “Neon Peach,” which featured Tyler The Creator, and the infectious hit “Dying For Your Love.” Aalegra’s ability to capture the complexities of love and human emotions through her music has solidified her as a revered figure in the contemporary R&B landscape.
As “Sweet Tea” makes its mark, Aalegra’s artistic trajectory continues to evolve, leaving her fans eagerly anticipating her future musical offerings. With each new release, she reaffirms her status as an artist who not only creates melodies but also crafts experiences that resonate deeply with those who listen.
by Laghe Andrews | Aug 17, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Brooklyn, the iconic birthplace of hip-hop culture, reverberated with the beats and rhythms of nearly five decades of the genre as Amazon Music‘s “50 & Forever Concert Series” took center stage on a vibrant evening in the heart of the city. The event, held on July 20, transformed the Pier 17 rooftop into a pulsating hub of excitement, drawing together a diverse crowd of hip-hop enthusiasts to commemorate 50 years of this influential musical movement.
The event’s meticulous attention to detail was evident right from the start. The venue’s brick wall, adorned with graffiti, resonated with the urban aesthetic that has been an integral part of hip-hop culture. The subway station, briefly renamed the “Eternal 50th Station,” honored the origins of the genre within New York’s public transit network. As the sun descended behind the cityscape, the atmosphere was prepared for a remarkable evening filled with music and festivity.
The evening’s lineup embraced the theme of the “Blog Era,” a pivotal period that witnessed a surge of online exploration and discovery of new artists and sounds. The lineup featured hip-hop luminaries Curren$y, Joey Bada$$, and Wale—artists who played instrumental roles during this transformative time in the genre’s history. With each act bringing their unique style and energy to the stage, the concert resonated with both nostalgia and the contemporary pulse of hip-hop.
The DJs curated an electric atmosphere, mixing iconic “Blog Era” tracks like A$AP Rocky’s “Peso” and Rick Ross’ “Stay Schemin” with current chart-toppers. The playlist provided the ideal backdrop for the night, bridging the gap between the genre’s past and present.
Kicking off the festivities was Curren$y, whose distinctive smoked-out sound became synonymous with the “Blog Era.” Adorned in a New York Giants Lawrence Taylor jersey, the New Orleans rapper infused the crowd with his stoned-out ferocity. From beloved classics like “Breakfast” and “Famous” to more recent hits like “Half Moon Mornings,” Curren$y’s performance was a journey through his prolific career. He paid tribute to his roots and New Orleans heritage with the infectious bounce of “Essence Fest,” featuring the collaboration of hip-hop heavyweight Jermaine Dupri.
Amazon Music’s “50 & Forever Concert Series” not only celebrated the genre’s evolution over five decades but also highlighted its ability to unite generations through the power of music. The event’s fusion of old-school classics and contemporary hits echoed the sentiment that hip-hop’s influence is timeless and boundless.
As the crowd absorbed the energy of the performances against the backdrop of the dazzling New York City skyline, it was evident that Amazon Music had orchestrated an unforgettable evening that resonated with the spirit and essence of hip-hop culture.
by Jonathan P-Wright | Aug 17, 2023 | Editorial Pick, Latest, Music News |
Image by David Mark from Pixabay
Jay-Z, the iconic music artist, has been an influential figure in the music industry for decades. From his early days as a rapper to his success as an entrepreneur and philanthropist, Jay-Z’s story is a testament to the power of determination and creativity. Now, his legacy is being celebrated in a grand exhibit called the Book of HOV, which has recently opened at the Brooklyn Public Library in collaboration with Roc Nation.
A Labor of Love and Collaboration
The Book of HOV is a 40,000-square-foot exhibit that takes full advantage of the Brooklyn Public Library’s Grand Army Plaza branch. The exhibit, crafted in collaboration with Roc Nation, showcases the life and career of Jay-Z through six distinct zones. The front of the library is wrapped with his lyrics, creating an eye-catching display for visitors.
The exhibit was unveiled at a star-studded pre-opening party attended by Jay-Z, Beyoncé, and their loved ones, along with famous friends. The event featured a jazzy medley of Jay-Z hits performed by a band, adding to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the exhibit. While the surprise element may have been slightly compromised by speculative reports leading up to the event, the exhibit remains a worthy celebration of the music icon.
A Uniquely Brooklyn Story
Linda Johnson, CEO of the Brooklyn Public Library, emphasizes that the Book of HOV is not only a celebration of Jay-Z but also a testament to the cultural richness of Brooklyn. She believes that the exhibit will attract new visitors to the library, including young people who may not be familiar with the wide range of services offered. Johnson states, “JAY-Z’s story is a uniquely Brooklyn story, and it’s a privilege to host this exhibit created as a labor of love by Roc Nation and the people who’ve known and worked with him over the years.”
In addition to the exhibit, the Brooklyn Public Library announced the release of limited-edition library cards commemorating each of Jay-Z’s 13 solo albums. This unique collaboration between the library and Roc Nation aims to further engage the community and encourage patronage of the library’s services. Johnson highlights that patrons can not only borrow books but also vinyl records, musical instruments, sheet music, and even utilize the recording studio to create their own music or podcast.
Exploring the Book of HOV Exhibit
The Book of HOV exhibit features thousands of artifacts from all over the world, curated with the help of Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez’s extensive collection. Perez had long desired to create a gallery showcasing her souvenirs, and the collaboration with the Brooklyn Public Library offered the perfect opportunity. The exhibit includes physical music reels, plaques, magazines and newspapers, concert setlists, rare photos, and one-of-a-kind artifacts like the guitar Jay-Z played at Glastonbury 2008, a defiant response to Noel Gallagher’s anti-rap comments.
The exhibit is divided into six zones, each named after a Jay-Z lyric, offering a thematic and investigative approach to his life and career. The non-linear structure allows visitors to explore different aspects of Jay-Z’s journey, rather than following a strict chronological order. The design process involved extensive research, including conversations with Jay-Z’s close friends and business peers, to gain insight into the various themes that would be explored.
The Six Zones of the Book of HOV
- Did It Without A Pen: This zone fills the library’s record room with 400 books that Jay-Z referenced throughout his career. It also showcases vinyl records of songs his producers sampled from, all available for borrowing.
- Win-Win: Highlighting Jay-Z’s philanthropic efforts, this zone explores his charitable endeavors and the impact he has made on communities.
- Business, Man: Focusing on Jay-Z’s entrepreneurship, this zone documents his ventures beyond the music industry, including his successful forays into fashion, sports management, and other business ventures.
- So Fly: Transformed into a paper plane palace, the library’s children’s space hosts this zone. Over 600 Brooklyn youth have designed custom paper planes, symbolizing the soaring aspirations and creativity fostered by Jay-Z’s music.
- HOV Did That: This sprawling mezzanine features rare photos and a blue-lit room filled with retro clips of Jay-Z discussing various topics that later manifested in his career.
- A Work of Art Already: This zone immerses visitors in the Black Album era, with large screens playing clips from that period and a life-size replica of Roc-A-Fella’s Baseline studios, where many of Jay-Z’s iconic tracks were recorded.
The Design Process and Collaboration
The design process for the Book of HOV exhibit took approximately six months, with the creative team at General Idea Agency leading the way. They worked closely with Roc Nation, the Brooklyn Public Library, and other production and design firms to bring the vision to life. The goal was to create an immersive and visually captivating experience for visitors while seamlessly integrating the exhibit into the existing space of the library.
Collaboration between Roc Nation and the library was key to the success of the project. The library provided invaluable support and contributed to the process, ensuring that the exhibit aligned with their mission and values. Both Linda Johnson, CEO of the Brooklyn Public Library, and the design team at General Idea Agency acknowledge the library’s instrumental role in making the exhibit a reality.
A Privileged Experience
While the public eagerly awaits Jay-Z’s reaction to the Book of HOV exhibit, one can only imagine the impact it will have on him. Scott Mirkin, the lead producer of ESM Productions, who has been involved in the installation of the exhibit since March, believes that Jay-Z’s smile will be a testament to the success of the exhibit. Mirkin notes that Jay-Z is often seen smiling and expresses his confidence that the exhibit will provide him with an amazing feeling.
The Book of HOV exhibit is not only a celebration of Jay-Z’s accomplishments but also an opportunity for the community to engage with his legacy. Through the collaboration between Roc Nation and the Brooklyn Public Library, visitors can explore the multifaceted journey of a music icon who has left an indelible mark on the world. It is an experience that transcends the boundaries of music and invites individuals to discover the power of passion, creativity, and perseverance.
As the Book of HOV continues to captivate audiences, it serves as a reminder that the library is not just a place for books but a hub of knowledge, inspiration, and creativity. The exhibit encourages young people to explore the library’s diverse offerings and discover their own passions, much like Jay-Z did on his path to success. With the limited-edition library cards commemorating each of his 13 solo albums, the collaboration between Jay-Z and the Brooklyn Public Library is destined to leave a lasting impact on both the community and the music industry.
So, if you find yourself in Brooklyn, make sure to visit the Brooklyn Public Library and immerse yourself in the extraordinary journey of Jay-Z, as told through the inspiring pages of the Book of HOV.
by Harris | Aug 15, 2023 | Latest, Social Justice |
A TikTok video shared by user careyann327 has ignited a wave of concern and outrage as it purportedly captures the arrest of a young Black child in Lansing, MI. The incident, which occurred on August 10, has sparked discussions about the treatment of minors by law enforcement officers and the broader issues of accountability and sensitivity.
In the video, a scene unfolds that shows the young Black child being apprehended by what appears to be a Lansing police officer. According to individuals heard in the background, the child was reportedly engaged in a simple act – taking out the trash from his residence – when the unexpected encounter with the police took place.
As the situation escalates, additional officials arrive on the scene to provide support to the lone officer. Amid the unfolding confusion, an older Black man, believed to be the boy’s father, approaches the scene to ascertain the nature of the incident. Although much of the conversation remains unintelligible, the concerned man can b e heard describing the child as “perfect.” He questions the necessity of subjecting the child to handcuffs, expressing his concern that such actions could potentially inflict lasting emotional “trauma.”
The incident has stirred a passionate debate in online communities, with commenters expressing a range of emotions and opinions. Many have called for the parents of the child to take legal action against what they perceive as an unjustified use of authority. Others have shared sentiments of skepticism towards law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of understanding one’s rights and involving legal representation when interacting with officers.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the complex dynamics between law enforcement and marginalized communities, particularly involving minors. The video has raised important questions about the appropriateness of using handcuffs on children, the need for transparent and fair policing practices, and the broader implications of such encounters on young individuals.
As discussions continue, the video serves as a catalyst for broader conversations about police conduct, community relations, and the wellbeing of vulnerable populations. The incident has ignited a renewed call for accountability and sensitivity in law enforcement interactions with individuals, regardless of their age or background.
by Jonathan P-Wright | Aug 14, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
J Hus and Burna Boy, two dynamic forces in the music industry, have teamed up for a powerful collaboration that has taken the music scene by storm. Following the success of his third studio album, “Beautiful and Brutal Yard,” released in July, J Hus continues to make waves with his latest visual offering, “Masculine,” featuring Burna Boy.
Released on August 10, “Masculine” showcases the seamless synergy between J Hus and Burna Boy, two artists known for their distinctive styles and captivating energy. The track’s infectious beat and memorable lyrics draw listeners in, creating a sonic experience that perfectly combines their talents. The collaboration is a testament to their mutual respect and shared passion for pushing creative boundaries.
The accompanying visual for “Masculine,” directed by Nathan Miller, provides an immersive look into the world of both artists. Set backstage at London Stadium, the video captures intimate moments as J Hus and Burna Boy share camaraderie and good vibes. The backstage atmosphere is electric, offering a glimpse into the excitement and energy that fuel their performances.
Throughout the video, J Hus showcases his playful and energetic persona, engaging in push-ups, interacting with his crew, and ultimately taking the stage to deliver an unforgettable performance. Burna Boy’s presence adds an international flair, highlighting the global reach of both artists and their ability to connect with audiences worldwide.
“Masculine” not only celebrates the artists’ musical prowess but also embodies the spirit of collaboration and unity. As two trailblazers in the music industry, J Hus and Burna Boy’s joint effort serves as a reminder of the transformative power of music to bring people together and create memorable experiences.
The release of “Masculine” is yet another milestone in J Hus’s impressive journey, following the success of “Beautiful and Brutal Yard.” The album’s star-studded lineup and eclectic soundscapes have solidified J Hus’s position as an influential figure in contemporary music.
With Burna Boy’s contribution to “Masculine,” the track becomes an anthem of cultural fusion and creative expression. As fans continue to embrace the synergy between these two powerhouse artists, the collaboration sets the stage for more groundbreaking releases that transcend boundaries and redefine the musical landscape.
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