The Music Ain't Loud Enough!

The Return of L. Boogie!!!

noreply@blogger.com (The Music Ain't Loud Enough!) — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 18:35:00 +0000

I can remember the first time I heard 'The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill', I was in college and doing radio in Baltimore, and I was able get an early copy from the record rep and listened to it as I drove around the streets. I was so blown by her voice and the conviction that she sang with on every song. I already knew her rhyming skills were above the curve. There I sat in my Jeep just taking in the dopeness of Lauryn Hill and from that point on I knew she was a bonafide star. Yes, we knew she was the sexy vixen assassin of The Fugees but she carried a vibe and charm that let her stand apart from Clef and Pras. I didn't think in my mind that she would go on to sell over 8 million records. That's going platinum extra crazy!

Of course with her riding that high wave a crash was imminent. L. Boogie was on top of the world with her debut solo album but then something went astray. Many blame her relationships with Clef and Rohan Marley to her just going coo-coo for coco puffs nevertheless she did a complete 360 from the world. Now flash forward 12 years later (yes 12 years) and she is set for a triumphant come back. She is what the music industry needs now. The industry has been infected with Kat Stacks, Soulja Boys, Becky songs and Nicki Minaj's! It's time to go back and bring back what made the world stop, look and listen to real music. I'm looking forward to seeing Lauryn rip the stage at the Rock The Bells Festival in NYC this weekend! I tip my cap to you Lauryn and to your return to glory!

Here is some classic Lauryn for you!!

Here is the latest single from Lauryn called 'Repercussions'.

New Music Monday!!!

noreply@blogger.com (The Music Ain't Loud Enough!) — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 20:19:00 +0000

What up fam! I just got some gems thrown my way so you know I have to share with you all. I'm better than New Music Tuesdays! Hitting you new ish the day before (drops bomb!). So Ciara is back with a new joint called "Ride It" feat Luda! She has a new album dropping this summer. ~~Yawn!!!!!~~ I mean I can't wait to hear this masterpiece. :) Anything will be better than that last piece of mess she dropped and I'm not talking about a NUMBER 2!

Also, peep this cut from this new dude on the scene by the name of Miguel! I'm digging his track featuring J. Cole (NC very own Jay-Z) called "All I Want Is You". So dig on it as well!

Enjoy and tell me what you think. And remember to tell a friend and share the love of music. Until next deuces! *throws two fingers*

Music Playlist at MixPod.com

Musical High

noreply@blogger.com (The Music Ain't Loud Enough!) — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 06:51:00 +0000

What's good my fine fellow music lovers! I know it's been like a minute months since I have last hit you all with some good ish! I apologize for the delay. Blame it on the liiiiiiffffffeee! So I have been in a musical bliss for a minute now. I really just have been listening to a lot of music lately and getting an understanding of how the songs have paralleled my life. I'm sure we all have those "ah-hay" moments where we hear a song that just hits on your life at that given time. Music does that to you. It can be the best thing you need to cure a broken heart, to have you think fondly of a loved one, to motivate your ass out of bed or just to put a smile on your face.

I have a list of joints that I love right now! Some old and some new and I'm sure you will feel them as well. One of the tracks is from this sista Leah Smith and I have to admit this girl flew under my radar. Cuz you all know I know my indie artists! :) But this one right here got me. She is gonna be the one to watch! I'm excited to be hosting an event she will be performing at in Baltimore on April 20th called Ear Candy. She is soulful beyond her years and it is evident once you hear her bellow out eargasm after eargasm! (Side note: Ear Candy at Teavolve in Baltimore at 7pm. Hosted by me! Come out and show luv!)

I'm excited about the coming summer months for music. There are some burners coming soon so be ready. So sit back and let me take you on a magical ride on "The Great Spacecoaster" of musical dimensions. I have a hot new burner from Solange, new Badu, the lovely Corinne Bailey Rae and a classic for all my DMV folks from Frankie. So sit back and enjoy real music folks!

Music Playlist at MixPod.com

Jay-Z feat. Swizz Beatz "On To The Next One"

noreply@blogger.com (The Music Ain't Loud Enough!) — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 08:51:00 +0000

Hova is back and ~~killing it~~ (no pun intended) with his latest video! Some folks have said this is Satanic, Demonic and other dumb shit folks have said! This video is just the artistic expressions of an artist who has transcended hip-hop. Keep it hot Mr. Knowles!

Buh-Bye Decade!

noreply@blogger.com (The Music Ain't Loud Enough!) — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 06:57:00 +0000

It's crazy I'm sitting here as we loom on a new holiday season and more importantly we venture into a new decade. The past ten years we have seen a rise and fall in the music industry! We seen 50 Cent, Rihanna, Beyonce', Gaga's, Chris Brown, Jigga Man, and etc; rise and fall around us. These last ten years the bizness has changed a lot. Gone are the days of radio requests and neighborhood stations but hello to iPods and internet streaming.

Some may ask what the state of the music business holds as we venture into 2011. I think it is going to be the best of the best! Jump on and get ready for some dope innovative things to come to life. Remember music is the perfect remedy in life. When you're down and life has you by the collar go to your album, CD or iTunes collection and put on your favorite song that makes you smile. I do know going into this New Year I expect to see the state of music to go back the glory days (I'm hoping) of great artists and lasting music. Here's to a New Year and great music on the horizon.

Happy Music New Years!

Stretch

Soulful Treats!

noreply@blogger.com (The Music Ain't Loud Enough!) — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 06:52:00 +0000

Guess who is back? Sorry for the delay on not hitting you all up on my musical love and desires (shotout to Rick James--Darkness!!!!)but you all know how it is when your looking for a job. Well do you? Any who, since I have moved from Gotham City back to Bmore I have been on my grind so much that I have not taken any time to listen and find some healing sounds of life...MUSIC!

So this past weekend I did just that and went to Best Buy to find me some golden gems to massage my ears. I think I came out like a champ too! I was able to score some classic's from Marvin Gaye "Let's Get It On", The Jacksons "Goin' Places", Amy Winehouse "Frank" and to a soon-to-be classic Melanie Fiona "The Bridge". And for good measure I bought myself a $25 gift card for iTunes! But the piece de resistance was a friend of mine lacing me with a dope book called 'The Rough Guide to Soul and R&B'. Oh man! What a great book that is so detailed with history to playlists to great images.

Well back to what I copped at BB! So I gave Melaine Fiona's album a lot of love this past weekend. I love her voice. She is such a standout singer that embodies the soul of her soulful predecessors before her. She shines on tracks like 'Walk On By', 'Priceless' and my fav 'It Kills Me'. If there is one album that you would want to spend some loot on it is hers. Yes, she may not sell Rihanna numbers or shake her ass like Beyonce', but there is one thing that I'm sure she will do well and that is SING!

I must admit that I did not know that Gamble & Huff worked with The Jacksons at all. So I was quite surprised that when I copped their 1977 album 'Goin' Places'. You can most definitely hear the Philly sound in this album. You clearly hear it in the song 'Find Me A Girl', where MJ lets it all hang out with his search for that right lady. He sings he's going to make good, good lovin'! Whatcha gonna do? LOL. This album slide under my radar but it is laced with great production and the sounds that built the 70's disco-soul-pop era. MJ and his brethren bring that up-beat spirit and feeling that made America love them for a lifetime!

Lord knows I love me some pre-cracked out Amy Winehouse. Now that she is supposedly sober and has some new 'boobies' she can lure me in again with her soulful voice.

Music Playlist at MixPod.com

Bonus*

One of the best to ever do it, Marvin Pentz Gay, Jr... If you can't get any a$$ from playing any song from Let's Get It On, well you Sir or Madam you have no game!

Legend Lost

noreply@blogger.com (The Music Ain't Loud Enough!) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 09:33:00 +0000

As I type this even with all of the coverage from CNN, MTV, VH-1 and BET, I still can't believe that Michael Jackson is gone. In our lifetime we are given only a few chances if any at all to witness greatness. I can honestly say we witnessed it with Michael Jackson. Everyone has a story about what Mike meant to them and how he touched your soul or spirit. We can all shout out a song of his that will have you throw your cares away and just want to get up and party. I remember growing up in Baltimore as a child and wanting to stay up late one Friday night to watch Friday night videos. I begged my mom to let stay up so that I can see Michael Jackson in this video known now as 'Thriller.' Now as a six-year old in 1982, 'Thriller' was the last thing I needed to be seeing but after a few hand over my eyes moments I was hooked to the phenomenon of Michael Jackson!

Now as a kid I like many others wanted to move like him. I wanted to have the precise moves and the magic feet he possessed. I can remember being a kid and dancing for my family every time I heard 'Beat It' on the radio. That same feeling transferred into my teen and adult years too. There was never a time you couldn't catch me bustin' into a Mike move in the hallways or a talent show. The sight of my lanky branch-like body flying all over the place. Some took it for amusement but I really thought I was Michael. Some may have taken it for a joke but I digress. :)

Michael Jackson was a visionary, trendsetter and an all-around force to be reckoned with. I hope folks don't dwell on the idiosyncrasies and odd things that became his life in the latter part of his years. I truly believe those who reveled in his triumphs and patted him on the back are the same one's that casted the first stone at him and shunned him. Again, I say that we only get a few chances in our life to witness greatness. Michael made music that is fresh and timeless and will be shared and enjoyed for centuries to come. Michael has grown from the little boy from Gary, Indiana to the mega-star, who wanted to heal the world. Despite your thoughts of him as a person he truly thought he was doing good. He touched many of lives throughout the world. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and fans. I'm sure he can now relax and rest in peace as he 'moonwalks' thru the gates of heaven! Here are few of my favorite tracks from the late-great Michael Jackson!

http://www.myspace.com/stretch166/playlists/import-michael-jackson-joints-1194208\nshared vid http://addthis.com

Richgirl vs Electrik Red

noreply@blogger.com (The Music Ain't Loud Enough!) — Fri, 29 May 2009 18:48:00 +0000

Well the onslaught of girl groups is about to hit hard for the summer time. I was just thinking for my amusement only of course, I would like to see all of them go WWE or UFC style in a cage and go at it! First on the bill is Def Jam's and Dream protégé’s Electrik Red vs. Rich Harrison's lab offering Richgirl!

They both basically are the same so who would win in a battle royal? And I'm not talking a singing battle. I want to see butterscotch, whip cream, sprinkles and gummy bears!!! Well that's wishful thinking but for the sheer thought of talent let's make this a singing battle!

So tell me what you think. Leave your comments!

Day26 - Stadium Music

noreply@blogger.com (The Music Ain't Loud Enough!) — Fri, 29 May 2009 16:09:00 +0000

The young Bad Boys make some noise once again with this joint!

Ode To R&B and Soul

noreply@blogger.com (The Music Ain't Loud Enough!) — Fri, 15 May 2009 05:39:00 +0000

So it's 1:40AM and I'm sitting at my parents crib watching a rerun on All My Children and uploading music to my iPod. As I go through my Cd's that I snatched out of my storage facility I'm just amazed of how good music used to be.

Remember the Summer of 2000 when Raphael, Dawn and Ali put together Lucy Pearl? Man, I was in awe and in love at the same time. They sounded great and Dawn look fly as ever but like everything in life...every good thing must come to an end. 'Dance Tonight', 'Without You' and 'Don't Mess With My Man' always on heavy rotation on my iPod!

Mary J held it down with the release of 'My Life' in my mind her best album to date. Tracks like 'Be With You', 'You Gotta Believe' and 'My Life' set your soul on fire.

D'Angelo not only made the women sway and melt when they saw this braided-headed, wife beater wearing, snarl making cat sing. He also made the fellas tighten up on their gym time as well. From the first moment we saw him and heard the guy folks were like who is this falsetto singin' young cat? Well he mos def let it been known who he was and what he intended on doing. With cuts like 'Lady' and 'Me And Those Dreamin' Eyes Of Mine.' Thank goodness for that!

I sure do miss my R&B and Soul from the 90's. Is it wishful thinking and naivete to think those days will ever resurface? Time will tell. Enjoy!

Ciara feat. Justin Timberlake "Love, Sex & Magic

noreply@blogger.com (The Music Ain't Loud Enough!) — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 22:41:00 +0000

VH1 TV Shows | Music Videos | Celebrity Photos | News & Gossip

I must say that Ciara and Keri can beef all they want as long as hot fudge, whip cream and cherries are involved! Damn, CC is looking good in this joint! Your thoughts!

You Big Dummy!

noreply@blogger.com (The Music Ain't Loud Enough!) — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 06:20:00 +0000

This is one of favorite lines from television! I loved it when Fred G. Sanford (The G stands for greatness) would shuffle into the room and look at his dimwitted son, Lamont and spew the words "You Big Dummy!"

Chris Brown I think Fred would say that and more to you, bro! This incident that has happened to two young superstars is just another eye-opening realization that no one is perfect. After reading the affidavit of the situation I have lost complete respect for the young man that was coined the next big pop star to gain Mike Jackson status. Well he may gain his status alright...the status of your ass needs to be in jail! I don't know where to begin. Just reading the affidavit about how this dude actually drove and a punched this woman repeatedly, put her in the head lock and bite her was just nauseating to my stomach.

The sad thing about this is that we're a forgiving species and in a few months we will all be saying, "Oh Chris Brown whipped Rihanna's ass? When?" I don't condone a man every putting his hands on a woman even if she starts it. Just walk away...just walk away. Now this young man with all the potential and talent in the world is facing 7 years in prison. I know that the word is that he will plea and get probation...but I say fuck that! Celebs always seem to get off with everything. If that was any regular Joe Schmo he would be in jail and facing some serious time. They would put his ass in a cell with those big burly ass cats like in that scene of Trading Places when Eddie Murphy was about to get 'bitched up' by them Jeri-curl brotha's, "Yeah!"

I find it crazy that Rihanna has gone back to this cat! I guess love really does make you do strange things. But I don't think it's suppose to make you go back to 808's & Ass Aches! Why subject yourself to that bullsh*t! I believe Rihanna is in need of her Tina Turner moment. She has to stand-up for herself and whip his ass!

Just like the rest of the world I wait anxiously to see how this pans out. Either way someones career will change dramatically for good or for bad. But I don't know to many women going to the music store to buy albums from women abusers. Domestic violence is no joke and we should not treat it as such.

Here is a song that never hit the airwaves and I hope these two don't make anymore duets in the form of fisticuffs.

Rihanna feat. Chris Brown "Bad Girl"

Journey Of Soul

noreply@blogger.com (The Music Ain't Loud Enough!) — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:01:00 +0000

There are a lot of singers that well, um sing. But there are only a handful that SANG! Anthony Hamilton is one of the selected few that falls into the elite handful. I have always been a fan of his voice and charisma that he exudes on his records and stage. So last night I had the chance to see him in concert. This was the first time I've seen him in a few years and I was not disappointed at the least. What I like about Anthony is that he is a real dude. The kind of cat that you could run into on the humble at the gas station and talk to him for hours. You would look at your watch and be like damn, I've been chatting it up with dude for 2 hours. That realness is what makes him a star in many regards. He has laced "us" the fan for many years with his music with the southern anthem "Comin' Where I'm From" to the classic ode to his lady love "Charlene" to one of my favorites "Do You Feel Me". This dude has such a diverse audience and I think that speaks volumes for an artists. It shows that he/she is not pigeon-holed to one particular crowd.

Anthony came out ready to perform and he did just that. He feed off the energy of the crowd and did things I never seen him do on stage...dance! My man was feeling it for sure. He rocked a silver satin-like jacket,a fresh cap and a shirt and tie. He looked like a little dancing dime! LOL. But he did his thing nonetheless. He ran through a list of old and of course the new. I really was feeling the new tracks he displayed last night. The title track from his new album "The Point Of It All" is a cut and dry classic Hamilton track. It is soothing and pulls you in with his lyrics. The album drops on December 16th and this one album you need to cop! I know the term stocking stuffer is over used but not this time. For an artist who has shown grit and determination since the start of his career in the 90's, he is the epitome of hard work pays off. It was a pleasure seeing him do his thing giving us a taste of ballads to his raucous rock performance to eye-opening dance moves. You can tell this is a good time in life for Anthony and I'm glad he is deciding to share!

Check out some performance footage: Well you will have to wait for the performances. There is something with video upload. Damn!!!

Son of Soul

noreply@blogger.com (The Music Ain't Loud Enough!) — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 06:00:00 +0000

I must say there is some great things about being in the business “we” call the music biz. Yes, there are the bad things like getting laid-off, getting fired, did I mention laid-off? But let me harp on the good such as seeing a great singer shine on the stage doing his craft. I had that opportunity last night/this morning as I saw Raphael Saadiq do his thing at S.O.B.'s in New York. Now this in not the first time I've seen dude perform. But for some reason that I can't seem to explain this was his best performance out of the many times I've seen him.

I knew the night was going to be a good one once I walked in the spot and the DJ was banging some ATCQ, Kane and LL (did I mention I missed Hip-Honor's for this?) and that had my head bobbin' and my attention caught. Everyone must have been loving the vibe in the spot last night. I saw some Asian dude doing his best "So You Think You Can Dance" moves all night. You can tell this dude has watched "Moonwalker" one to many times. Shout out to Mike J! His lady friend was not that much better she was spazzing all over the place. It looked as though she was having an epileptic seizure. If rhythm came in the club and slapped her she still wouldn't have gotten it. LOL.

The night started with Emily King opening up with an acoustic set of songs. I love Emily, I truly do but she was boring. So let me move on. I knew the night was going to be a soulful one when the DJ played Marvin Gaye's rendition of "The National Anthem" to bring on Rapahel. By the way I, feel so patriotic when I hear that version. When Barack becomes Prez and I become Secretary of Music, I will take the proper measures and make Marvin's version become the official version. After a moment of reflection thinking of Barack as President, Raphael hit the stage in proper fashion. He was decked out in 60's attire letting everyone know that it's going to be a soulful night. He went right into "Love That Girl" off of his newest CD "The Way I See It". The dude had the choreographed moves down packed with his background singers. If the look of the one-time great leader singer David Ruffin of The Temptations was his hook he did him justice.

Raphael may be one of most under-rated singers/performers of my generation. This dude is a hell of a singer, writer and producer. He knows how to put on a show as well. The crowd went nuts as did I when he went into Lucy Pearl's "Dance Tonight". Although there was no Dawn Robinson his background singer did her thing (Sidebar - Why do some singers feel the need to stretch their eyes when they sing? This chick did that and it bugged me out. Please singers don't do that) they took it to "If I Had No Loot" which the shit in 93!
'
The show was laced with hit after hit with a touch of new joints in there as well. When he made it to the Tony!, Toni!, Tone! set the crowd was in this dudes hand's. "Lay Your Head On My Pillow" started it off followed by "It Never Rains In Southern California" to "Anniversary". The vibe was just right until this lady looking like Miss Roper cut in front of me so she could see. Damn you, Miss Roper!

This was one show that I greatly appreciated and enjoyed. There are perks to being in this biz and last night was one of them. Shout out to my girl Kathy Baker at Columbia for getting my late requesting ass in there! Raphael certainly didn't disappoint giving a "GREAT" show, and he closed out with a new joint of the album called "Sometimes", which has a gospel sound to it and it flows nicely. I was feeling the vibe and typing my notes for this blog until this drunken girl tried to slap my phone out of my hand. She is lucky that the song was spiritual because I felt one coming! Needless to say she didn't delete my notes thus this blog.

So do yourself a favor go and get Raphael Saddiq's newest album "The Way I See It". You will be taken back to a time when music was music and where singers actually sang. And while you're at it pull out some old Saadiq from his Oakland days with the 3 T's and Lucy Pearl and even his solo-releases. Thank you God for quality music! Let me go I have to get my shortie a log cabin up in Wis-can-sin! ;)

Don't forget to turn it up cuz' The Music Ain't Loud Enough!

Videos

Love That Girl-http://new.music.yahoo.com/videos/--184533174

Be Here-http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0xrEjfz6qQ

Without You-http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7v8nD9pc70s

Whatever You Want-http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HVpTaQ8q7Y&feature=related

Oh Teedra, Oh sugar, where you been?

noreply@blogger.com (The Music Ain't Loud Enough!) — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 18:29:00 +0000

Okay, so I tried to rearrange some of the lyrics of Ready For The World's "Oh Sheila" give me a little credit. So last night I went out to see a singer that I've been digging on ever since she hit the scene in 2003 with the release of her biggest song "Be Your Girl". I remember when I was still doing radio in Baltimore, and I would play this record on my show at night, the lines would light up with women wanting to know who was this girl singing. The song was so catchy and spoke to the ladies at that time of what was going on in their life's. I was really expecting Teedra to be a prominent fixture on the female vocalist side for years to come. Well, that didn't happen and it wasn't her fault it happens to a lot of talented singers. I was happy to see her perform last night and still staying on the grind. The last time I saw her was maybe 2 years ago with Raphael Saddiq at The House of Blues on Sunset in Los Angeles.

She did her thing at that show and she didn't disappoint last night either. I got there around 8 or so since I wanted to see the opening act--Russell Taylor but the dude never went on! Well anyway the crowd was building and the time just kept lapsing as I stood by the bar chugging-down endless amounts of seltzer water with lime. I think she was suppose to hit the stage at 9 or so but the big dude kept coming up to the mic talking about how she was help up at the airport from her flight in L.A.

"She will be here in 20 minutes. I just got off the phone with her folks. Teedra Moses will be here in like 15 to 20 minutes." he said unsure. I'm not sure he was trying to convince us or him. So finally after a plate of fried yucca and a $20 plate of dried chicken thingies she finally hit the stage. I must say all of the venom that I built up waiting for her was quickly removed when she strutted on wearing a red dress that hugged her body tighter than I could! She apologized to her fans--well to the ones that decided to stay despite her tardiness. She grabbed that mic and went right at it! The crowd went bananas and the ladies started to rock and sing with her word for word. It was a beautiful sight. I love it when a artist can connect with their audience and she did just that.

The highlights of the night for me was when she did "Be Your Girl" the ladies in the spot sang that song hard. I was scooping looking for what honey I could get eye-contact with so she could sing to me. LOL. Well I was only looking at Teedra to be honest! Her set was on point she did a version of "Be Your Girl" with Mtume's "Juicy Fruit" which was dope! She bust into "Cherchez La Femme" by Se Si Bon, that had the crowd go nuts. Teedra most definitely did her thing last night. She looked good and sounded great. I had a great time despite at the end when this snake salesman and his plain-jane girlfriend stood next to me and started tongue dancing! Damn, man get a room! Anyway I'm sure her time to shine will resurface again and when it does I will be there to see her flourish.

Here is some Teedra for you just in case you need a refresher!

http://new.music.yahoo.com/videos/--2169761

Shout out to my girl Fionna Bloom for putting me down on Teedra's show. The Bloom Effect is in full-effect mode!

Well until next time turn up the music...since The Music Ain't Loud Enough!

Grown Men on the Block....

noreply@blogger.com (The Music Ain't Loud Enough!) — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 20:04:00 +0000

Uh-oh, oh, oh, oh! The world might be coming to an end because quiet as kept I'm feeling the new album from New Kids On The Block! I remember when the album dropped I was at the Virgin Mega Store peeping the Young Jeezy album( which is a killa in it's own right) and I looked at the NKOTB joint and rolled my eyes. I said what can some 40 year dudes have to say? Well as I listen to the album right now they have a lot to say! This is a very good album. They came hard on this one with production from Polow Da Don, Teddy Riley and Akon. Now that is some strength right there and you not to mention the guest-appearances from Ne-Yo, The Pussycat Dolls and New Edition. To real with you the only reason I really had any interest to listen to album was for the New Edition joint. I'm a big fan of NE! It was good to see the two groups that Maurice Starr founded come together. There was mad tension between the two for many years since NE thought they were short-changed on the many benefits NKOTB received because they were a white pop group. I would have to agree NE never had dolls, lunchboxes, cartoon and etc. But time heals wounds as they say.

But this NKOTB is full of uptempo cuts that make you think is this the same dudes that rocked the scene 22 years ago. Yes, I know that they are grown-ass men but you get what I mean. This album is very refreshing the production is on point there is no T-Pain on this joint too! So that right there grants it 100 cool points from me.

This a all-around grown folk album as it should be. If you're expecting bubble-gum lyrics and mess like that...sorry for you! It doesn't seem to matter their fans are mature as well and it didn't hurt their numbers. The debut at number 2 selling 95,000 copies. So that is not the numbers they did back in the 80's, but hell times they have a changed. The economy is ruined people don't go to music stores anymore so what do you expect. The album is still rolling strong on the charts in the Top 30.

So do yourself a favor and go cop this joint. Again, I know I normally don't do this but you need to trust me on this. Until next time turn it up cuz' "The Music Ain't Loud Enough"!

Old School - http://new.music.yahoo.com/videos/--2164983

New School - http://new.music.yahoo.com/singleVideo/?vid=157380834

Stop the Madness!

noreply@blogger.com (The Music Ain't Loud Enough!) — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 17:29:00 +0000

Guess who's back? Stretch is back! Guess who's back? Stretch is back...Stretch is back...Stretch is back!!! And I'm mad as hell! Well let's just say I'm a little tired of all of these artists out here using pitch correction on their songs. I mean the days of Roger Troutman with Zapp with their success in the early 80's, with Roger being the musical genius he was using the "talk box" to help enhance his music. Of course one of Roger's predecessors who was a music savant in his own-right of course is Teddy Riley. Teddy took the game to a whole-new level with the creation of the New Jack Swing era.

Well we all know how these two men changed music with there talents and style. I'm just tired of the new cats in the game that have a case of the "lazy ass" in them. It seems like every time I turn on the radio or go to a site to listen to new music there is someone using pitch correction to substitute their lack of talent.

Culprit number 1...The Circus Ring Leader himself--T-Pain!

This dude is the epitome of what I call the "lazy-ass artist" I'm not doubting his producing skills but as an artist this dude lacks that certain "je ne sais quoi" to him. Ever since I heard "I'm In Love With A Stripper", I was like what the hell is this? But like most songs they tend to grow on you. But this dude has been that cancer to music that just won't seem to go away! No matter how many treatments you give him he just reappears. Each time worse than the time before. You don't believe me here he is straight murdering Keith Sweat's "I Want Her" on VH1's Hip Hop Honors.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7UkXwKbn3Gs

The dude is just horrible! He could have been on that horrific show that was on MTV "Rock The Cradle". I don't know who is worst at signing Al B. Sure's son or T-Pain? Well I know that they both suck ass!

I just wish that cats would get it together. Long gone are the days of the New Jack era where production and music was at it's best. Long gone are the days of finely produced albums by Stevie, Quincy, Prince, Jam and Lewis. The shit that's out now is just that...SHIT! No wonder my i-Tunes is full of music from the late 80's to mid to late 90's.

Now everyone thinks that they need the service of the "auto-tune" or the "talk-box" to have a hit. The answer is no you don't need that mess. You can use it to enhance a song if need be but don't let it be your major player in your song. Now Lil' Wayne and Chris Brown are using it and Chris doesn't need it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_n3ylXxmPsQ - Chris Brown "Forever"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rc6kmI-UdZM - Lil' Wayne "Got Money"

Well Wayne is using it in just about every hook he sings rather auto-tunes on. LOL. Alright back to the lecture at hand. Is it me or does Pain look like the Dr. Teeth of Dr. Teeth and The Electric Mayhem Band from The Muppet Show?

Lets get back to the good times of music. Will we ever see those days again? Only time will tell but we always have the memories of the good days.

http://new.music.yahoo.com/videos/--2160344 Guy-Groove Me

http://new.music.yahoo.com/videos/--2164465 Today-Him or Me

http://new.music.yahoo.com/videos/--2160132 LL Cool J-Jingling Baby

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCYiYgn1XWY Zapp-I Wanna Be Your Man

Maiysha--A Breath of Fresh Air

noreply@blogger.com (The Music Ain't Loud Enough!) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 16:03:00 +0000

July 30, 2008 will go down as the day I saw a musical savior! Yes, I know that is a really big thing to say about someone, but trust me when I say that this sista can carry the torch. Her name is Maiysha. Write that down, take a picture, embed it into your memory because you don't want to forget her.

I went out to see her at Tillman's in NYC for a showcase and to be honest I didn't know what to expect. I do admit I am very picky when it comes to music being that I know the sounds and styles that appeal to me. So as I'm sitting at the table with some network and label friends waiting for Maiysha to grace the stage, I take in the intimate spot that is Tillman's. It is a great venue for a showcase for an artist to shine or at least attempt to shine. The band began to play this funky jam that had me bobbing my head to the beat. The background singers began vamping a bit when all of a sudden this statuesque woman in a black dress with tassels a la' Tina Turner came confidently to the stage. She stood there and took in the room and began to sing. At this point my eyes were fixated on her in that dress. She had legs for days and I had that look on my face from when you were a kid and you got caught looking or doing something you were not suppose to do! But when I heard her sing I quickly got myself together and was drawn in from her voice! Maiysha not only was shining she was glowing!

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=58183314

Maiysha can S-I-N-G! I believe that is an understatement to describe this woman and her talents. This woman represents a whole lot more. When I was at Yahoo Music, I created a station dedicated to artists such as Maiysha called "Soul Revival" and she is the epitome of what that station represents. Artists like her, Eric Roberson, Conya Doss, Alice Smith, Amp Fiddler and Rashaan Patterson are truly what makes music a beautiful source of comfort.

Soul Revival Station http://music.yahoo.com/launchcast/stations/station.asp?i=46745645

Maiysha is hands down a beautiful woman--remember my eyes did get stuck looking at her. LOL. But she also exudes confidence, strength, sensuality and that sure star-power when she is on the stage singing. Her vocals and lyrical content are so on point. I couldn't think of who she reminds me of which may be a good thing since that means she defines her own style and sound. Her set included songs that represented soul, rock, progressive, funk and a hint of reggae. Maiysha is like "31 Flavors" with the different genres in her repertoire. She even has a cover of former Genesis lead-singer Peter Gabriel's "Sledgehammer." She puts her own flavor and touch on it that makes it work from a woman's perspective. I know I was yelling towards the end of the song, "Hit me! Please hit me!"

Watch a live performance of her song "Chase" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKY5vI4CD_w

I love finding or being introduced to new artists and Maiysha is no exception. I know she will flourish in this game we call music. She has the entire package but most importantly she can sing and sing from the soul. In today's age of Pro Tools, voice enhancing tools and just plain no talent, Maiysha is again that breath of fresh air. I know with her in the business; music will still thrive and prosper.

Watch a live performance of her first single "Wanna Be" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UTlxloaM0m0

Make sure to cop her album when it drops on August 26th, entitled "This Much Is True."

Amy Winehouse aka Miss Can't Get Right....

noreply@blogger.com (The Music Ain't Loud Enough!) — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 20:32:00 +0000

The Good Amy!

This is starting to become a tired re-run as far as I'm concerned about Amy "Dope Fiend" Winehouse! This talented woman has definitely been through the "craze maze" since she started. It really saddens me to see her literally destroy herself so the whole world can see. It's like a bad sitcom on Fox or the CW.

Amy can go down in history with the likes of a Sara Vaughn, Aretha, Bessie Smith, "Ma" Rainey and even to a certain degree Mary J. Blige. But the course Amy is on she is headed down the path of a Janis Joplin, Billie Holiday, Mama Cass and recent train-wreck Whitney "Hell to Naw" Houston!

Amy is a star but her light is rapidly starting to diminish. I'm starting to agree with Natalie Cole when she was opposed to the Academy giving Amy all of those Grammies this past year. That only adds fuel to the fire. The label and her "so-called" inner-circle only have one thing in mind with her and that's that "Money...Money...Yeah...Yeah!!"

The Bad Amy!

Yes, it has been more than documented that this woman has her demons but I really think someone needs to seriously intervene and shut her down for a bit. But that ain't going to happen as long as she is a hot-commodity and the talk of the town. And let's not forget a media darling!

Peep Amy for what she is a talented woman and not abuse her and take advantage of her weakness and insecurities that she possesses. Do yourself a favor and listen to her "Frank" album sometime this week. You will get a sense of how poignant this woman is and can be in the world of music.

http://music.yahoo.com/read/news/46570241

Eye Candy and New Music- Hell Yeah!

noreply@blogger.com (The Music Ain't Loud Enough!) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 06:02:00 +0000

Now I will officially "Google" her! Teyana Taylor getting her "Tyra" down the runway! This Skateboard-P protege is doing her thing. My only question is where is the album? She does have a new single entitled "Move" and I'm suggesting they do that with the album!

Well that's my eye-candy for you fella's and I guess for some of you ladies too! She mos def has some soup coolers on her face region! LOL. But let's get to the hot shit! New music for you and yours!

Peep the new Common feat. Pharell "Announcement"
http://www.sinternet.com/newmusic30.php
This track is crazy! Pharell laced this joint like it should be laced. Common comes through lyrically like he always does. "This is hip-hop baby! I fien' to the tip-top baby!" Too be honest I think this is probably the best track Star Trek has done in awhile!

In other new music news I'm sorry to report we have a massive destruction of a classic! The culprits at-large are 4 dudes from Florida who go by the name of Pretty Ricky! These bama's destroyed H-Town's "Knockin' Boots" from the roota to the toota! I do give some props to the new dude on the vocals but the I'm sure the other "serfs" I mean rappers are not on the background vocals. Now if the label was smart they should just team this new dude up with the old dude and get another singing dude and...BOOM! You get a new Pretty Ricky! The rest of them horny raggedy-ass mouth cats can tryout for one of those reality love shows on VH-1. One thing is for sure...ladies you will get your ab fix on from this video a la D'Angelo's "Untitled (How Does It Feel)"

Sidebar: Why does the chubby dude have a high-top fade? If he wants to stay in the group he needs to hit the gym instead of hitting them cakes!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMX2j6MJHIE Wack remix version

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HrBnEaQd4ZY Classic H-Town original!

For the hell of it here the D'Angelo video for you ladies! Pre-pudgy D'Angelo at that. Remember Stretch loves the ladies! Yes, I do!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ULZuCK_fgo

Lastly, I'm digging this John Legend and Andre' 3000 collabo! It reminds me a lot of Outkast's "Hey Ya" but that's a good thing. It definitely rocks and gets you moving! This is really a little walk on the dope side for John since he rarely does any uptempo joints. 3000 shines on his 16 as if you didn't know. I'm looking forward to Legends album for sure and also would like to see a video for this joint too! Check it out and tell me what you think.
http://www.sinternet.com/newmusic30.php

Alright, I'm out of here for this week. I hope I made you giggle like a piglet! (pay attention to the lyrics) Enjoy your week and remember to turn the music up!

Shoutouts to Vinny and the crew over at S.I.N. always on top with the hotness!

Stretch

DON'T BELIEVE THE HYPE!

noreply@blogger.com (The Music Ain't Loud Enough!) — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 03:19:00 +0000

Wow, my first initial blog entry of many more I hope! I guess I can thank my former boss for sparking the fire under me to start blogging. I have been a little out of sorts lately as I do my best to find a job in the digital world. My plan for this blog is to hit you up with the latest music and give my "superior" opinion on the tracks, artists and just the music business in general. But this first blog is going to be my vent blog! Yea, like the "Mad Rapper" I'm a little peeved to say the least.

I'm sure many of you can relate to being laid-off...and I must say this shit sucks! I know the whole economy and all is in a complete and utter mess but damn! It wasn't that long ago I was doing my thing at Yahoo Music programming the hottest music on the 35 radio stations I oversaw. How quickly the tide comes in and wipes it all away. This is my first time ever being laid-off and I have to say it has been a struggle adjusting. Which leads me to the title of this blog..."Don't Believe The Hype!"

"Some media is the whack You believe it's true, it blows me through the roof Suckers, liars get me a shovel Some writers I know are damn devils For them I say don't believe the hype"

The prophetic words of Chuck D illustrates how I feel about so-called "friends" in the business. I know this is a bad time for everybody in the United States. But I am a person who holds true to his word and I expect the same in the return. I can remember when I first got laid-off, I was getting calls from cats saying, "Yo, Stretch! Man, I got you son. Whatever you need I can get you in here. We or they need a person like you." I was feeling like damn this is what's up! Cats got my back now that is true looking out...better yet that is true friendship. Now not all have been that way to me. So shoutout to those who have been a champion for me! But like that cornball cop in Beverly's Hill Cop, I fell for old banana in the tail pipe routine.

Working the world of "new media" and dealing with music there is so many jobs out there. Yes, it's all about who you know more than what you know. That is evident since there are a lot of people out here holding jobs that make me scratch my dome and wonder why? I digress though back to the lecture at hand. It just makes me laugh when people open their mouth to spew nonsense to you . If I want that I can listen to a 4 month old baby "goo-goo, gaa-gaa" even they make more sense than grown-ups at times. I have been out of work since March and I can't keep count the many times someone has told me how they can get me into a job only to be let down. What is the purpose of having contacts when they only fear that you're trying to take their job? Dude, I don't want your gig! I want my own job! We are all on this earth to help one another but I guess some of us wasn't privy to that memo. I know there are massive ego's in this business, hell, I have big one myself. But again I'm all about helping someone out no matter what. And if I can't help them I'm honest and let them know.

I just find it funny that people in so-called "high positions" just talk to hear themselves talk. I guess it's that mentality that you get when you work in the system. We all sit at behind our desk or at our cube with our feet up on the desk, looking at celebrity gossip websites and chucking down our lattes. Pretending to do something productive with our time and all only to be playing ourselves in the long-run.

This period of non-work as been like a true political game of flip-flop at it's finest. So many shoulda, coulda and woulda's thrown in my direction.

"Their pens and pads I'll snatch 'Cause I've had it I'm not an addict fiendin' for static I'll see their tape recorder and grab it No, you can't have it back silly rabbit"

The whole notion of someone saying they got your back on helping you find employment is full of shit! I'm not saying that I need the person to set-up the interview, go inside with me and do all the talking for me. I'm just asking for a chance. Just open the door slightly and I will kindly kick the rest in. Be a person of your word. If you say be about it! I guess I have been able to reassess my outlook on who is a friend and who is an associate. It's funny how many "friends" are being put in the associate category. I have seen sides of folks that I have never seen before. And for what...a job?! It's just a job. I don't want theirs at all. But with the recession on our backs I guess folks are feeling the pressure like no other.

"Rock the hard jams - treat it like a seminar Teach the bourgeois, and rock the boulevard Some say I'm negative But they're not positive But what I got to give...The media says this "

I just know this when I do get off the bench and back into the game my perspective won't change at all. I will still go and do my job to the best of my ability and not get caught up on a title or how much money I make. I will still do what it is intended of me and that is to be a "man" of my word and help out as many folks as I can. So do me a favor...if a friend comes at you boasting about how they can help you with this and that....DON'T BELIEVE THE HYPE!

The views in this blog are all mine and I stand by them 100% and if I offended anyone that wasn't my intention. Your conscious is just talking to you I guess. I'm just being real!

PUBLIC ENEMY-DON'T BELIEVE THE HYPE http://new.music.yahoo.com/videos/--41179777