I had another busy year attending concert after concert. It began back in January with a Chris Botti show at Yoshi’s in San Francisco. What a way to begin a new year!
The show was so good that I ended my concert year at Yoshi’s in Oakland seeing none other than Chris Botti.
Here’s what I thought about the concerts I attended in ’08 – starting with what I feel was the best concert, and then the next best and so on:
Mary J. Blige & Robin Thicke – Oct. 18, 2008, Sleep Train Pavilion, Concord, CA: Hands down, this was the best concert I attended in 2008. The energy Mary had is still stuck in my head. She looked fantastic and sounded flawless. Mary covered most of the songs I wanted to hear and I left the Pavilion pumped and excited. I still have flashbacks when I’m listening to Just Fine, Hurt Again and My Life.
Kenny Lattimore – July 3, 2008, Yoshi’s, Oakland: My first time seeing him and he blew me away. Kenny is such an underrated and underappreciated artist, and I’m glad I had the opportunity to see him at an intimate venue. I still get goose bumps when I think about him singing I Love You More Than You’ll Ever Know. Whew!
After seeing Kenny, I began this blog, so you could say he inspired to me to stop talking and start doing!
The Real Thing Tour featuring Jill Scott and Raheem DeVaughn, Feb. 8, 2008, Paramount Theatre, Oakland: Jill Scott is the kind of artist who gives her all when she performs. I’ve lost track of the amount of times I’ve seen her live, but each time, she gets better and better.
This go round, she was more laid back and relaxed, and her concert vibe was really mellow. Still, that voice is something of a natural wonder. Mariah Carey has nothing on Jill Scott.
Heart of the City Tour featuring Mary J. Blige & Jay-Z – April 21, 2008, Oracle Arena, Oakland: This concert was postponed by a day, but it didn’t matter. The arena was packed to see two of the best artists out now. Mary and Jay created a show that appeased fans of both performers. Whether they were on stage together or separate, they both kept the energy of the crowd going the entire time.
The only thing bad about this show were my seats. Never again will I sit in the nosebleed section!
Chris Botti – January 22, 2008 Yoshi’s San Francisco; Dec. 13, 2008, Yoshi’s Oakland: I think I’m in love with this man – for real. He plays the trumpet like it’s nobody’s business! He has one of the best bands I’ve ever seen and listening to him play takes my mind to another place. I’ve seen him open for Earth, Wind and Fire, and play with the San Francisco Symphony, but I really felt his music seeing him at Yoshi’s. Oh, and Chris is really funny!
Maxwell & Jazmine Sullivan – Oct. 28, 2008, Paramount Theatre, Oakland: It’s been years since Maxwell has released any new material, but did that matter to the sold out crowd in Oakland? Heck no! Even without all that hair Maxwell didn’t miss a beat. His performance is always high-quality and one always leaves the concert wanting to go home and do a few things with their significant other.
Musiq & Ledisi – Sept. 18, 2008, The Warfield, San Francisco: This show should have been headlined by Ledisi. I love Musiq – I own all of his albums – but this just wasn’t his night. As I previously wrote, I don’t know if it was the band or he was just having an off night, but had it not been for Ledisi, I would have left the concert really disappointed.
Ledisi, on the other hand, has a voice that’s mesmerizing. She’s another artist who is underappreciated and should be selling millions of records.
Amel Larrieux – Sept. 19, 2008, Yoshi’s Oakland: I’m not a big fan of Amel, but when a friend asked if I wanted to go, I said “Why not?” With her low-key style and light voice, I enjoyed the show.
The Flamingo Hotel Presents Toni Braxton – Feb. 14, 2008, Flamingo Hotel, Las Vegas: Now this is bad – I only remembered going to this concert after looking back at all my ticket stubs for the year. I saw Braxton right before she cancelled her run in Vegas due to health issues – and it showed during the performance.
Braxton struggled throughout the entire show and had it not been for the audience singing along, the show would have stalled. I wish I could have received a refund.
Me
- Soul Sista D
- Bay Area, CA, United States
- Music wakes me and keeps me going all day, every day. I’ve had a love for music since childhood, and it’s only intensified as I’ve matured. Musings On Music was inspired by Kenny Lattimore. I saw him perform in 2008 and realized there was something in his music that spoke to me on a level which said I needed to write about what I witnessed. I’ve been writing ever since.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Still missing Tupac
My favorite rapper of all time is Tupac Amaru Shakur. I’ve been a fan of his since he released 2Pacalypse Now back in 1991.
I must admit I never really was a big fan of rap when it first emerged back in the early 80s (I’m still not. I only like a few artists and think most of today’s rap is a hot stinkin’ mess).
Sure, I was into Run DMC, LL Cool J, Big Daddy Kane, Kool Moe Dee and Salt N Pepa, but I never owned any of their tapes.
Then along came Tupac. I can still remember vividly the black-and-white video for Brenda’s Got a Baby and the message of the song. Listening to the lyrics, I realized this was a man whose rhymes spoke a different truth.
Every album Pac released while he was alive, I own. I still listen to them all from time to time. Depending on my mood, Tupac can either pump me up or calm me down.
I remember being in a class either my freshman or sophomore year at Grambling State University and the professor tried to tell us how bad rap was. A student went back to his dorm room and brought back Tupac’s Strictly for My N.I.G.G.A.Z. He played the song Keep Ya Head Up to show the professor that not all rap was negative.
The professor agreed.
I was a senior in college when, on Sept. 7, 1996, Tupac was shot in Las Vegas. I remember thinking, “This has got to be a really bad joke.” Lounging around the university’s newspaper, the staff was stunned – we couldn’t get over the fact that Pac might not make it.
We all kept hope alive though, and believed he would be back. I mean, he previously survived being shot five times, so why should this time be any different?
Unfortunately, it was not to be. Sept. 13, 1996, the world lost what I feel was one of the best artists music has ever had.
I truly believe Tupac knew his time here was limited. Why else would he have recorded so many songs before he passed?
Twelve years later, I’m still bothered by the fact he’s not here anymore. I’m really troubled that the shooter has never been found.
I often wonder what the rap game would be like if Tupac and The Notorious B.I.G were still around. Would there be a Lil’ John? Would the Southern rappers even exist?
Somehow, I think hip-hop would be in a different place had Pac lived.
One can only speculate.
I must admit I never really was a big fan of rap when it first emerged back in the early 80s (I’m still not. I only like a few artists and think most of today’s rap is a hot stinkin’ mess).
Sure, I was into Run DMC, LL Cool J, Big Daddy Kane, Kool Moe Dee and Salt N Pepa, but I never owned any of their tapes.
Then along came Tupac. I can still remember vividly the black-and-white video for Brenda’s Got a Baby and the message of the song. Listening to the lyrics, I realized this was a man whose rhymes spoke a different truth.
Every album Pac released while he was alive, I own. I still listen to them all from time to time. Depending on my mood, Tupac can either pump me up or calm me down.
I remember being in a class either my freshman or sophomore year at Grambling State University and the professor tried to tell us how bad rap was. A student went back to his dorm room and brought back Tupac’s Strictly for My N.I.G.G.A.Z. He played the song Keep Ya Head Up to show the professor that not all rap was negative.
The professor agreed.
I was a senior in college when, on Sept. 7, 1996, Tupac was shot in Las Vegas. I remember thinking, “This has got to be a really bad joke.” Lounging around the university’s newspaper, the staff was stunned – we couldn’t get over the fact that Pac might not make it.
We all kept hope alive though, and believed he would be back. I mean, he previously survived being shot five times, so why should this time be any different?
Unfortunately, it was not to be. Sept. 13, 1996, the world lost what I feel was one of the best artists music has ever had.
I truly believe Tupac knew his time here was limited. Why else would he have recorded so many songs before he passed?
Twelve years later, I’m still bothered by the fact he’s not here anymore. I’m really troubled that the shooter has never been found.
I often wonder what the rap game would be like if Tupac and The Notorious B.I.G were still around. Would there be a Lil’ John? Would the Southern rappers even exist?
Somehow, I think hip-hop would be in a different place had Pac lived.
One can only speculate.
Monday, December 8, 2008
I’m mad at Oprah's people!
I’m a huge fan of Oprah. I record her show and watch it as soon as I get home from work every day.
I heard a rumor that she might tape her show in Washington D.C., during inauguration week – Jan. 19-23. I religiously checked her Web site to make sure I didn’t miss out on the opportunity to secure tickets.
I will be in Washington D.C., when President-elect Barack Obama puts his hand on the Bible and takes the oath of office. I want to be able to tell the kids I don’t yet have that I was there to witness history (even though I’ll probably be witnessing it on a jumbo screen).
Anyway, once Oprah made the official announcement that she would indeed move her show to the nation’s capital, I got on the e-mail lines and let all my friends know we needed to be ready to flood the reservation line until one of us got through.
I figured, might as well kill two birds with one stone. My sister and a few friends want to eventually attend a taping of Oprah’s show, so this would have been a perfect opportunity to do so.
Friday, Oprah’s Web site said something about checking back next week for information regarding tickets to show tapings for inauguration week.
This morning at 8 a.m. sharp (Pacific Time), I checked the site again. It still said the same thing.
I went to a meeting at 9:30. Back at my desk by 11:30, I called my girl, Chandra, and she tells me about her sister’s friend securing tickets.
I check the Web site and it says the reservation lines were now closed. Within three-and-a-half hours, the lines opened and closed.
That makes me angry.
It’s hard for me to believe that whoever runs the Web site didn’t know they were going to open the reservation lines today. I knew that it was probably going to be damn near impossible to even get tickets.
But I at least expected to have the opportunity to give it the good old college try.
Oh well. Guess I’ll have to make a special trip to Chicago to see a show before Oprah decides to retire from television.
I just hope it’s not soon!
I heard a rumor that she might tape her show in Washington D.C., during inauguration week – Jan. 19-23. I religiously checked her Web site to make sure I didn’t miss out on the opportunity to secure tickets.
I will be in Washington D.C., when President-elect Barack Obama puts his hand on the Bible and takes the oath of office. I want to be able to tell the kids I don’t yet have that I was there to witness history (even though I’ll probably be witnessing it on a jumbo screen).
Anyway, once Oprah made the official announcement that she would indeed move her show to the nation’s capital, I got on the e-mail lines and let all my friends know we needed to be ready to flood the reservation line until one of us got through.
I figured, might as well kill two birds with one stone. My sister and a few friends want to eventually attend a taping of Oprah’s show, so this would have been a perfect opportunity to do so.
Friday, Oprah’s Web site said something about checking back next week for information regarding tickets to show tapings for inauguration week.
This morning at 8 a.m. sharp (Pacific Time), I checked the site again. It still said the same thing.
I went to a meeting at 9:30. Back at my desk by 11:30, I called my girl, Chandra, and she tells me about her sister’s friend securing tickets.
I check the Web site and it says the reservation lines were now closed. Within three-and-a-half hours, the lines opened and closed.
That makes me angry.
It’s hard for me to believe that whoever runs the Web site didn’t know they were going to open the reservation lines today. I knew that it was probably going to be damn near impossible to even get tickets.
But I at least expected to have the opportunity to give it the good old college try.
Oh well. Guess I’ll have to make a special trip to Chicago to see a show before Oprah decides to retire from television.
I just hope it’s not soon!
Monday, November 17, 2008
How do you enjoy a good concert?
As you may have surmised from my blog, I’m a huge fan of concerts. I get much pleasure watching an artist bring a CD to life. For me, there’s nothing better than spending several hours listening to good, live music.
This year, I’ve been to more than 10 shows. Some have been at intimate venues; others at arenas. Whenever I’m in a position to stand and dance, I do.
My idea of having a good time at a concert is dancing freely and singing hard and loud. During the New Edition concert last year, I broke into the dance they do during the chorus of the If It Isn’t Love video. Thankfully, I had most of the row to myself.
It’s perplexing to me when people stay seated the entire show. I saw a lot of this at the Maxwell show I attended a few weeks ago.
For the life of me, I can’t comprehend how someone paid for a concert ticket and they never leave their seat. I mean, it’s a concert, not the ballet or opera!
Maybe they are trying to be cute and don’t want to mess up their outfits.
Maybe they were having a good time, but when you are sitting there with your arms folded across your chest and not even attempting to move to the beat of the music, it makes me wonder why you even bothered coming out in the first place.
I know there are people who will say, “I paid my money and will enjoy myself sitting down,” and that’s fine.
But don’t get mad when I’m standing in front of you, dancing and singing to my heart’s content.
Because I paid my money too.
This year, I’ve been to more than 10 shows. Some have been at intimate venues; others at arenas. Whenever I’m in a position to stand and dance, I do.
My idea of having a good time at a concert is dancing freely and singing hard and loud. During the New Edition concert last year, I broke into the dance they do during the chorus of the If It Isn’t Love video. Thankfully, I had most of the row to myself.
It’s perplexing to me when people stay seated the entire show. I saw a lot of this at the Maxwell show I attended a few weeks ago.
For the life of me, I can’t comprehend how someone paid for a concert ticket and they never leave their seat. I mean, it’s a concert, not the ballet or opera!
Maybe they are trying to be cute and don’t want to mess up their outfits.
Maybe they were having a good time, but when you are sitting there with your arms folded across your chest and not even attempting to move to the beat of the music, it makes me wonder why you even bothered coming out in the first place.
I know there are people who will say, “I paid my money and will enjoy myself sitting down,” and that’s fine.
But don’t get mad when I’m standing in front of you, dancing and singing to my heart’s content.
Because I paid my money too.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
I can’t live without my iPod
Back in the 80s, rapper LL Cool J made a song titled I Can’t Live Without My Radio.
In 2008, I know how exactly how he feels.
This is a sad day in my life.
I learned today that my iPod is officially dead.
For the last five years, I’ve formed a tight bond with my third-generation iPod. I’ll never forget the day a former co-worker introduced me to this music player. He had a first generation one, and once he explained to me that I could have my entire music collection in the palm of my hand, I was hooked.
A few weeks later, I ordered my own. For $400, I got the iPod, earbuds, a docking station, a carrying case and a USB cable. At the time, I thought that was a lot of money, but it was well worth it.
My iPod and me had our ups and downs. It kept freezing up when I wanted to run. It also would do some other funky stuff.
Instead of giving me a new iPod, Apple gave me the runaround about not being able to replace it because it was engraved. I battled with them for a long while, but they never gave in.
Still, I cherished it. I told everyone I could about it. It took a few years, but my sister and a few friends finally invested in one. They too are now hooked.
A few weeks ago, I dropped my iPod. This was nothing new because unfortunately, I’ve dropped it one too many times – even though every time I did it was in its carrying case.
This time, a piece broke off the bottom. No worries because it still played.
A few days ago, I went to use it and the Apple logo appeared – but it never went away.
That’s never a good sign.
I kept resetting it, but the logo just stayed put.
I made an appointment at Apple’s Genius Bar and received the devastating news. “Your hard drive is shot,” the man said. It costs $249 for a replacement.
I may have jinxed myself because I’ve been eyeing the new iPod Classic. Maybe my third generation caught wind of my desire for a new one and decided to force my hand.
Problem is I’m not sure I like the new iPod. I love that my buttons are above the wheel and not apart of it. I’m used to scrolling through and finding my music really fast.
I played with a friend’s iPod Classic, and the wheel just wasn’t right to me. Still, after my DJ friend told me buying a new iPod was something I should do for myself, I logged onto Amazon.com and hit the “Place your order” button – sans the engraving.
I should have my new 120GB iPod Classic by the end of the week. That’s such an upgrade from my 20GB.
After having music at my fingertips for the last five years, there’s no way I’m going back to carrying a bulky CD player.
Do they even still make those things?
In 2008, I know how exactly how he feels.
This is a sad day in my life.
I learned today that my iPod is officially dead.
For the last five years, I’ve formed a tight bond with my third-generation iPod. I’ll never forget the day a former co-worker introduced me to this music player. He had a first generation one, and once he explained to me that I could have my entire music collection in the palm of my hand, I was hooked.
A few weeks later, I ordered my own. For $400, I got the iPod, earbuds, a docking station, a carrying case and a USB cable. At the time, I thought that was a lot of money, but it was well worth it.
My iPod and me had our ups and downs. It kept freezing up when I wanted to run. It also would do some other funky stuff.
Instead of giving me a new iPod, Apple gave me the runaround about not being able to replace it because it was engraved. I battled with them for a long while, but they never gave in.
Still, I cherished it. I told everyone I could about it. It took a few years, but my sister and a few friends finally invested in one. They too are now hooked.
A few weeks ago, I dropped my iPod. This was nothing new because unfortunately, I’ve dropped it one too many times – even though every time I did it was in its carrying case.
This time, a piece broke off the bottom. No worries because it still played.
A few days ago, I went to use it and the Apple logo appeared – but it never went away.
That’s never a good sign.
I kept resetting it, but the logo just stayed put.
I made an appointment at Apple’s Genius Bar and received the devastating news. “Your hard drive is shot,” the man said. It costs $249 for a replacement.
I may have jinxed myself because I’ve been eyeing the new iPod Classic. Maybe my third generation caught wind of my desire for a new one and decided to force my hand.
Problem is I’m not sure I like the new iPod. I love that my buttons are above the wheel and not apart of it. I’m used to scrolling through and finding my music really fast.
I played with a friend’s iPod Classic, and the wheel just wasn’t right to me. Still, after my DJ friend told me buying a new iPod was something I should do for myself, I logged onto Amazon.com and hit the “Place your order” button – sans the engraving.
I should have my new 120GB iPod Classic by the end of the week. That’s such an upgrade from my 20GB.
After having music at my fingertips for the last five years, there’s no way I’m going back to carrying a bulky CD player.
Do they even still make those things?
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Why voting matters
Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2008 will forever be remembered as the day America decided “Yes We Can” make a change in this country.
Barack Obama, the 47-year-old junior United States Senator from Illinois, will be officially sworn in as President on Jan. 20, 2009. I plan to be there because I wouldn’t miss witnessing history for anything.
I want to be able to tell my yet-to-be-had children’s children that I saw a Black man place his hand on the Bible and say the following oath:
"I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States."
I cast my vo
te for President-elect Obama on Oct. 25. I really wanted to vote on Nov. 4, but I was flying back from Washington D.C., and didn’t want to chance not making it back in time.
Barack Obama, the 47-year-old junior United States Senator from Illinois, will be officially sworn in as President on Jan. 20, 2009. I plan to be there because I wouldn’t miss witnessing history for anything.
I want to be able to tell my yet-to-be-had children’s children that I saw a Black man place his hand on the Bible and say the following oath:
"I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States."
I cast my vo
te for President-elect Obama on Oct. 25. I really wanted to vote on Nov. 4, but I was flying back from Washington D.C., and didn’t want to chance not making it back in time. I would have been sick to my stomach had I not been able to vote.
I’ve always believed that voting is a right and everyone should take advantage of the opportunity. Whether it’s for president or a bond measure, I always take time to vote.
As I cast my ballot that sunny Saturday afternoon, I couldn’t help but reflect on what my ancestors endured in order for me to walk into the Alameda County Court House and cast my vote for Barack Obama. For Black people, the right to vote has been a hard-won battle; my parent’s generation marched long and fought fiercely so that when a day like Nov. 4th came, I would be able to exercise my right to vote.
I often think about those who were bitten by dogs and hit with water from fire hoses; my heart aches knowing some paid the ultimate sacrifice just so a race of people could have a better life.
They stood up to fear and hatred, knowing in the end, the struggle would reap benefits for generations to come.
Even though the candidate I voted for won, I’m disappointed in California for passing Proposition 8, the ballot initiative that changes the California Constitution to ban gay marriage. It’s even more disappointing to know the majority of Blacks in the state voted for Prop. 8 – even while casting their vote for Obama who publicly backed the “No on Prop. 8” effort.
I voted against this measure because I believe when you discriminate against one group, it hurts us all.
Despite my disappointment, I’m proud that I partook in the voting process. I know that, no matter the outcome, my vote does matter.
I’ve always believed that voting is a right and everyone should take advantage of the opportunity. Whether it’s for president or a bond measure, I always take time to vote.
As I cast my ballot that sunny Saturday afternoon, I couldn’t help but reflect on what my ancestors endured in order for me to walk into the Alameda County Court House and cast my vote for Barack Obama. For Black people, the right to vote has been a hard-won battle; my parent’s generation marched long and fought fiercely so that when a day like Nov. 4th came, I would be able to exercise my right to vote.
I often think about those who were bitten by dogs and hit with water from fire hoses; my heart aches knowing some paid the ultimate sacrifice just so a race of people could have a better life.
They stood up to fear and hatred, knowing in the end, the struggle would reap benefits for generations to come.
Even though the candidate I voted for won, I’m disappointed in California for passing Proposition 8, the ballot initiative that changes the California Constitution to ban gay marriage. It’s even more disappointing to know the majority of Blacks in the state voted for Prop. 8 – even while casting their vote for Obama who publicly backed the “No on Prop. 8” effort.
I voted against this measure because I believe when you discriminate against one group, it hurts us all.
Despite my disappointment, I’m proud that I partook in the voting process. I know that, no matter the outcome, my vote does matter.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Maxwell wants me (or so it felt like it)
Ladies, before you head out to a Maxwell concert, make sure to grab an extra pair of panties – preferably new – because he wants them.
But only if you are single.
That’s what he expressed to the audience Tuesday night during his performance at the Paramount Theatre in Oakland. Throughout the hour-and-a-half show, Maxwell danced, got down on his knees and laid down on the ground, asking “Oakland, is it OK if you lay on top of me tonight?”
I’m sure every woman in there (including the married, engaged or just living together) imagined she was on the stage at that moment.
I know did. Actually, I imagined myself on that stage the entire evening. Maxwell is one fine piece of a man. What’s better than looking scrumptious and being able to sing?
I’m digressing.
It’s been seven looooonnnnnggggg years since Maxwell released an album. That didn’t matter though. His show Tuesday night was sold out; another was added on Wednesday.
Maxwell knew it had been a long time – he said as much – and he was really appreciative of people still coming out to see him despite not having released an album or single.
The first and last time I saw Maxwell in concert was 2001. I remember standing the entire time, and screaming – a lot.
This time was no different. Maxwell started the set with Get to Know Ya and asked us if we wanted to get nasty and sexy.
We did.
Throughout the evening, the audience stood and sat through Lifetime, This Woman’s Work, Sumthin’, Sumthin’, Ascension (Don’t You Ever Wonder), Al Green’s Simply Beautiful, which he performed at the BET Awards earlier this year, and Fortunate.
After previewing a song from his forthcoming album Black Summer’s Night. he said, “Thank you for not throwing tomatoes. It’s a brand new song and sometimes brand new songs are annoying to listen to.”
Only because we don’t know the words yet.
I didn’t realize Maxwell had a comedic side to him. He had the audience laughing throughout the evening, especially when he said, “I’m setting you up tonight, brothas. You are going to get the best piece of something!”
He then dedicated the next song he sung to “the future panties that will be thrown on stage tonight.”
The one thing I really appreciated about this show was him singing the entire song. No cutting out the second verse and jumping to the last one. We were treated to every word.
I also liked the fact that at the end of the show, each band member introduced themselves.
The only disappointment of the evening was not hearing Matrimony: Maybe You. It’s probably my favorite Maxwell song. Well, I love Each Hour Each Second Each Minute Each Day too, but I didn’t expect him to sing that.
As for his opening act Jazmine Sullivan, she should have a conversation with her sound people because I could hardly understand a word she said. This is unfortunate because had she sounded better, I may have bought her album.
But only if you are single.
That’s what he expressed to the audience Tuesday night during his performance at the Paramount Theatre in Oakland. Throughout the hour-and-a-half show, Maxwell danced, got down on his knees and laid down on the ground, asking “Oakland, is it OK if you lay on top of me tonight?”
I’m sure every woman in there (including the married, engaged or just living together) imagined she was on the stage at that moment.
I know did. Actually, I imagined myself on that stage the entire evening. Maxwell is one fine piece of a man. What’s better than looking scrumptious and being able to sing?
I’m digressing.
It’s been seven looooonnnnnggggg years since Maxwell released an album. That didn’t matter though. His show Tuesday night was sold out; another was added on Wednesday.
Maxwell knew it had been a long time – he said as much – and he was really appreciative of people still coming out to see him despite not having released an album or single.
The first and last time I saw Maxwell in concert was 2001. I remember standing the entire time, and screaming – a lot.
This time was no different. Maxwell started the set with Get to Know Ya and asked us if we wanted to get nasty and sexy.
We did.
Throughout the evening, the audience stood and sat through Lifetime, This Woman’s Work, Sumthin’, Sumthin’, Ascension (Don’t You Ever Wonder), Al Green’s Simply Beautiful, which he performed at the BET Awards earlier this year, and Fortunate.
After previewing a song from his forthcoming album Black Summer’s Night. he said, “Thank you for not throwing tomatoes. It’s a brand new song and sometimes brand new songs are annoying to listen to.”
Only because we don’t know the words yet.
I didn’t realize Maxwell had a comedic side to him. He had the audience laughing throughout the evening, especially when he said, “I’m setting you up tonight, brothas. You are going to get the best piece of something!”
He then dedicated the next song he sung to “the future panties that will be thrown on stage tonight.”
The one thing I really appreciated about this show was him singing the entire song. No cutting out the second verse and jumping to the last one. We were treated to every word.
I also liked the fact that at the end of the show, each band member introduced themselves.
The only disappointment of the evening was not hearing Matrimony: Maybe You. It’s probably my favorite Maxwell song. Well, I love Each Hour Each Second Each Minute Each Day too, but I didn’t expect him to sing that.
As for his opening act Jazmine Sullivan, she should have a conversation with her sound people because I could hardly understand a word she said. This is unfortunate because had she sounded better, I may have bought her album.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Mary J. Blige is definitely Just Fine
There has only been two times I’ve been to a concert and sang and danced so hard that I felt like I was going to pass out.
The first was earlier this year at the Heart of the City Tour co-headlined by Mary J. Blige and Jay-Z. The second was this past Saturday at the Love Soul Tour featuring Robin Thicke and starring Mary J. Blige.
Guess who almost had me on the floor both times?
I’ve seen Mary a total of three times, and each instance has been a different experience. I just saw her five months ago and Saturday’s performance was completely different than April’s. For an artist to change up her show in a matter a months speaks volumes because it probably would have been easier to just stick with the same show.
When I heard Mary was coming back to the Bay Area, I convinced my sister, Regina, to fly out for the concert (for some reason, the tour bypassed Denver) because she’s never seen Mary live before. I’ll venture to say she’s not sorry about the airfare she paid!
I’ve been pumped for this concert since the day I bought the tickets – part of that excitement was the great seats I was able to secure. After sitting in the nosebleed section at the Heart of the City Tour, I made a promise to myself to always get the best seats possible – as long as I can afford it.
Before the show, I was concerned about how well Robin Thicke would do. Having seen him on the BET Awards, I wasn’t sure he would be able to come across well in a big venue.
I was wrong.
Robin came out strong and finished the same. I’m not a major fan of his, but I was on my feet when he sang Magic, Can You Believe and Lost Without You. This is bad, but the thing that stuck out most in my mind about Robin’s show is how fine his drummer and guitarist were!
Many times my friends said “Look at the drummer!” The camera person must have thought the same thing because he/she kept focusing on him.
As the lights dimmed to let the audience know Mary was coming, a countdown to her performance was displayed on jumbo screens. You could feel the electricity in the air because everyone knew we were about to witness a performance we would never forget.
Mary came out swinging with Grown Woman (off Growing Pains) and for the next two hours she kept the energy level high, moving from Love Is All We Need to Be Happy to Real Love to Love No Limit (the remix) to Mary Jane (All Night Long) with ease.
If you are a true Mary fan, you know all these songs are off her first three albums – What’s The 411, My Life and Share My World. There’s nothing better than an artist revisiting where it all began.
It’s funny because, before the concert my sister and I were listening to Mary’s older albums and discussing what she may sing. Regina called it when she said Mary would go old school, and she sang many of the songs we wished she would.
Performing like a woman who is definitely comfortable in her own skin, it’s obvious she’s in great shape (no heavy breathing between songs) and she looked absolutely fabulous in her all black ensemble.
During the break (in which she changed into an all-white outfit with gray boots), a montage of the songs she couldn’t fit in were shown on a screen. The video clip ends flashing 1975 and playing Roy Ayers’ Everybody Loves the Sunshine.
Mary then appeared back on stage, lying on a couch, singing My Life. It was by far one of the best moments of the evening.
Other memorable moments include Take Me As I Am, Work That, Enough Cryin and No More Drama. I don’t know how Mary was jumping around on stage in those grey high heeled boots, but she absolutely worked it!
The anthem
for my life right now is Just Fine, and knowing this would be the last song, I was prepared to go crazy. I can still hear Mary in my head singing: “So I like what I see when I’m looking at me/when I’m walking past the mirror/don’t stress through the night at a time in my life/ain’t worried about if you feel it/got my head on straight, I got my vibe right/I ain’t gonna let you kill it/see I wouldn’t change my life, my life’s just fine/fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, fine oooooh!”
If her performance is any indication of what’s going on in Mary’s life, it is indeed just fine!
Throughout the night, I kept looking over at my sister to gauge her enjoyment level. It appeared she was in her own world, mesmerized like most everyone else.
At the end of the show, all of us had to stop and catch our breath. We knew what we had just experienced would stay with us for a long time to come.
Note: Right before Mary took the stage, a video was shown for the organization she founded earlier this year – the Foundation For the Advancement of Women Now Inc. (FFAWN). According to the Web site, the foundation is “dedicated to helping all women gain the confidence and skills they need to reach their full individual potential.”
CD alert!
Kindred the Family Soul drops a new album tomorrow (Oct. 21). Called The Arrival the first single from their third release is House of Love. I love this husband and wife duo and hope you will support their wonderful music by buying the CD.
The first was earlier this year at the Heart of the City Tour co-headlined by Mary J. Blige and Jay-Z. The second was this past Saturday at the Love Soul Tour featuring Robin Thicke and starring Mary J. Blige.
Guess who almost had me on the floor both times?
I’ve seen Mary a total of three times, and each instance has been a different experience. I just saw her five months ago and Saturday’s performance was completely different than April’s. For an artist to change up her show in a matter a months speaks volumes because it probably would have been easier to just stick with the same show.
When I heard Mary was coming back to the Bay Area, I convinced my sister, Regina, to fly out for the concert (for some reason, the tour bypassed Denver) because she’s never seen Mary live before. I’ll venture to say she’s not sorry about the airfare she paid!
I’ve been pumped for this concert since the day I bought the tickets – part of that excitement was the great seats I was able to secure. After sitting in the nosebleed section at the Heart of the City Tour, I made a promise to myself to always get the best seats possible – as long as I can afford it.
Before the show, I was concerned about how well Robin Thicke would do. Having seen him on the BET Awards, I wasn’t sure he would be able to come across well in a big venue.
I was wrong.
Robin came out strong and finished the same. I’m not a major fan of his, but I was on my feet when he sang Magic, Can You Believe and Lost Without You. This is bad, but the thing that stuck out most in my mind about Robin’s show is how fine his drummer and guitarist were!
Many times my friends said “Look at the drummer!” The camera person must have thought the same thing because he/she kept focusing on him.
As the lights dimmed to let the audience know Mary was coming, a countdown to her performance was displayed on jumbo screens. You could feel the electricity in the air because everyone knew we were about to witness a performance we would never forget.
Mary came out swinging with Grown Woman (off Growing Pains) and for the next two hours she kept the energy level high, moving from Love Is All We Need to Be Happy to Real Love to Love No Limit (the remix) to Mary Jane (All Night Long) with ease.
If you are a true Mary fan, you know all these songs are off her first three albums – What’s The 411, My Life and Share My World. There’s nothing better than an artist revisiting where it all began.
It’s funny because, before the concert my sister and I were listening to Mary’s older albums and discussing what she may sing. Regina called it when she said Mary would go old school, and she sang many of the songs we wished she would.
Performing like a woman who is definitely comfortable in her own skin, it’s obvious she’s in great shape (no heavy breathing between songs) and she looked absolutely fabulous in her all black ensemble.
During the break (in which she changed into an all-white outfit with gray boots), a montage of the songs she couldn’t fit in were shown on a screen. The video clip ends flashing 1975 and playing Roy Ayers’ Everybody Loves the Sunshine.
Mary then appeared back on stage, lying on a couch, singing My Life. It was by far one of the best moments of the evening.
Other memorable moments include Take Me As I Am, Work That, Enough Cryin and No More Drama. I don’t know how Mary was jumping around on stage in those grey high heeled boots, but she absolutely worked it!
The anthem
for my life right now is Just Fine, and knowing this would be the last song, I was prepared to go crazy. I can still hear Mary in my head singing: “So I like what I see when I’m looking at me/when I’m walking past the mirror/don’t stress through the night at a time in my life/ain’t worried about if you feel it/got my head on straight, I got my vibe right/I ain’t gonna let you kill it/see I wouldn’t change my life, my life’s just fine/fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, fine oooooh!”If her performance is any indication of what’s going on in Mary’s life, it is indeed just fine!
Throughout the night, I kept looking over at my sister to gauge her enjoyment level. It appeared she was in her own world, mesmerized like most everyone else.
At the end of the show, all of us had to stop and catch our breath. We knew what we had just experienced would stay with us for a long time to come.
Note: Right before Mary took the stage, a video was shown for the organization she founded earlier this year – the Foundation For the Advancement of Women Now Inc. (FFAWN). According to the Web site, the foundation is “dedicated to helping all women gain the confidence and skills they need to reach their full individual potential.”
CD alert!
Kindred the Family Soul drops a new album tomorrow (Oct. 21). Called The Arrival the first single from their third release is House of Love. I love this husband and wife duo and hope you will support their wonderful music by buying the CD.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Leave Mr. DJ alone
I have a friend who is a disc jockey, a k a DJ. For more than 20 years DJ O (most people call him Rodney) has been spinning records at clubs, parties and weddings.
I’ve known DJ O for five years. We became acquainted after he became my barber (he’s a jack of all trades).
During the course of our friendship, which turned into a relationship and is now back to a friendship, I’ve had the pleasure of accompanying him to various DJ gigs. I’ve been to numerous weddings (the stories I could tell), many clubs and a few birthday parties.
I’ve come to this conclusion – it is very annoying when people bother the DJ.
I used to be one of those people who would walk up to the DJ booth and request this song and that song. I’d stand there until the DJ would play my song and then go back to dancing.
I don’t do that anymore.
After seeing more than one drunk person come up and ask for that “song” – as if DJ O should instantly know what “song” they are talking about – I’ve determined that you should leave the DJ alone.
DJing is not easy work. You have to make sure each song flows into the next one and you have about one to two minutes to find that next song. Shifting through records, pulling it out the sleeve, dropping it on the turntable and finding just the right spot for the song to begin is a skill I’ve come to admire and appreciate.
Although DJ O now uses a laptop, the premise is still the same – he has to scroll through thousands of songs and find the right one before the one currently playing stops.
Try doing that for hours at a time – while standing.
Music is what makes any party and if the DJ becomes annoyed, the party can go downhill quick. Not saying I’ve witness this with DJ O – he’s the utmost professional – but there have been a few times he’s told people to just relax and enjoy themselves.
I remember one time he was working a party and the birthday girl was so worried about people dancing that she spent a better part of the night telling DJ O what to play. She didn’t realize that her so called “friends” weren’t interested in dancing – they just came for the free food and liquor.
The next time you’re at a party or grooving at the club, please resist the urge to make a special request. Chances are your song will eventually be played. And if it isn’t, go home, put your song on and turn up the volume like you are still at the party.
There’s nothing better than dancing in the middle of your living room!
Upcoming concert alert!
I began 2008 seeing Chris Botti at Yoshi’s in San Francisco and I will end it seeing him at Yoshi’s in Oakland. He’s playing at both venues and trust me when I say tickets will sell out for ALL shows.
I’ve known DJ O for five years. We became acquainted after he became my barber (he’s a jack of all trades).
During the course of our friendship, which turned into a relationship and is now back to a friendship, I’ve had the pleasure of accompanying him to various DJ gigs. I’ve been to numerous weddings (the stories I could tell), many clubs and a few birthday parties.
I’ve come to this conclusion – it is very annoying when people bother the DJ.
I used to be one of those people who would walk up to the DJ booth and request this song and that song. I’d stand there until the DJ would play my song and then go back to dancing.
I don’t do that anymore.
After seeing more than one drunk person come up and ask for that “song” – as if DJ O should instantly know what “song” they are talking about – I’ve determined that you should leave the DJ alone.
DJing is not easy work. You have to make sure each song flows into the next one and you have about one to two minutes to find that next song. Shifting through records, pulling it out the sleeve, dropping it on the turntable and finding just the right spot for the song to begin is a skill I’ve come to admire and appreciate.
Although DJ O now uses a laptop, the premise is still the same – he has to scroll through thousands of songs and find the right one before the one currently playing stops.
Try doing that for hours at a time – while standing.
Music is what makes any party and if the DJ becomes annoyed, the party can go downhill quick. Not saying I’ve witness this with DJ O – he’s the utmost professional – but there have been a few times he’s told people to just relax and enjoy themselves.
I remember one time he was working a party and the birthday girl was so worried about people dancing that she spent a better part of the night telling DJ O what to play. She didn’t realize that her so called “friends” weren’t interested in dancing – they just came for the free food and liquor.
The next time you’re at a party or grooving at the club, please resist the urge to make a special request. Chances are your song will eventually be played. And if it isn’t, go home, put your song on and turn up the volume like you are still at the party.
There’s nothing better than dancing in the middle of your living room!
Upcoming concert alert!
I began 2008 seeing Chris Botti at Yoshi’s in San Francisco and I will end it seeing him at Yoshi’s in Oakland. He’s playing at both venues and trust me when I say tickets will sell out for ALL shows.
Monday, September 22, 2008
More Ledisi, less Musiq
I’ve had a busy, concert filled few days. Thursday, I checked out Musiq and Ledisi at the recently restored Warfield in San Francisco. Downstairs is standing room only with some tables, while upstairs is all seated.
There used to be a time when I didn’t mind standing for hours waiting for my favorite artist to perform. These days, if I have a choice between standing or sitting, I’m sitting!
Ledisi hit the stage with extremely high energy, wearing all black and some serious black stiletto boots. I don’t know how she jumped around on stage for almost an hour, but she rocked it. She even made reference to her attire – “I’ve been hanging with Prince! Can’t you tell, I’ve got on my boots!”
I must admit, I’m not a true Ledisi fan. I have a few of her albums on my iPod, and I tried to really get to know her music before the show, but I still wasn’t familiar with many of the songs she sang. It didn’t matter though because I was grooving the entire time she was on stage.
Ledisi gave a heartfelt performance, speaking to the audience about how she really thought about leaving the business, but she pushed on and is now a two-time Grammy-nominated artist. Her voice is funky and jazzy, and she definitely gives her all when she’s performing.
I wish I could say the same about Musiq. I’ve been a fan since Aijuswanaseing and have all his albums. I’ve seen him a few times before and didn’t leave disappointed.
Unfortunately, Musiq wasn’t quite right this time. I don’t know if it was because his band was too loud or if his voice was off. Whatever the case, I left feeling like Ledisi should have been the headliner.
After waiting 52 minutes for him to appear, Musiq began the show with his first single, Just Friends and from there launched into Half Crazy. When he got to For the Night – which is my jam – I felt like he was doing more dancing than singing. I also noticed you couldn’t really hear the backup singers that well.
At one point, he left the stage and came back apologizing for the “technically difficulties.” Whatever those “difficulties” were, they weren’t fixed because the band was still too loud.
Musiq started to lose me when he went into an extended version of Teach Me (off his latest Luvanmusiq). The song went from four minutes to 20 because he decided to take a break and change clothes. While we waited, one of his backup singers introduced the band.
Musiq returned in a new outfit and a piece of candy in his mouth.
He politely ate it (while checking his phone) and the band kept playing Teach Me. Oh, I forgot another reason the song was so long – he decided to have a man moment, explaining why men are the way they are. I didn’t have a problem with that, I just think he should have had this man moment and not changed clothes.
After singing a new version of Who Knows (stick with the old), he went into Don’t Change. That ended up being the best song of the night – and the last song I heard because my friend had to go to work.
I usually stay until the end, but this night, I didn’t feel bad leaving before hearing B.U.D.D.Y. I hope Musiq can overcome those technical difficulties and pull it together for his next show.
***Concert alerts!***
Chante Moore
I saw Ms. Moore when she did a guest appearance for Norman Brown during the JVC Jazz Festival. That woman has pipes, so I can only imagine how great she’s going to sound at Yoshi’s.
Mary J. Blige
I’ve already seen Mary earlier this year and I’m pleased she’s coming back because my seats we horrible for her previous show. If you’ve never seen her, she’s worth every penny. The last two times I saw her, my behind never saw the seat and the last time I felt like I was going to pass out because I was singing and dancing so hard!
Maxwell
He’s back! Well, can you really be back if you haven’t released an album in seven years and still don’t have one out? Nevertheless, he’s touring and I bought my tickets before they went on sale. I just hope he releases a single before he comes to Oakland Oct. 28 and 29.
There used to be a time when I didn’t mind standing for hours waiting for my favorite artist to perform. These days, if I have a choice between standing or sitting, I’m sitting!
Ledisi hit the stage with extremely high energy, wearing all black and some serious black stiletto boots. I don’t know how she jumped around on stage for almost an hour, but she rocked it. She even made reference to her attire – “I’ve been hanging with Prince! Can’t you tell, I’ve got on my boots!”
I must admit, I’m not a true Ledisi fan. I have a few of her albums on my iPod, and I tried to really get to know her music before the show, but I still wasn’t familiar with many of the songs she sang. It didn’t matter though because I was grooving the entire time she was on stage.
Ledisi gave a heartfelt performance, speaking to the audience about how she really thought about leaving the business, but she pushed on and is now a two-time Grammy-nominated artist. Her voice is funky and jazzy, and she definitely gives her all when she’s performing.
I wish I could say the same about Musiq. I’ve been a fan since Aijuswanaseing and have all his albums. I’ve seen him a few times before and didn’t leave disappointed.
Unfortunately, Musiq wasn’t quite right this time. I don’t know if it was because his band was too loud or if his voice was off. Whatever the case, I left feeling like Ledisi should have been the headliner.
After waiting 52 minutes for him to appear, Musiq began the show with his first single, Just Friends and from there launched into Half Crazy. When he got to For the Night – which is my jam – I felt like he was doing more dancing than singing. I also noticed you couldn’t really hear the backup singers that well.
At one point, he left the stage and came back apologizing for the “technically difficulties.” Whatever those “difficulties” were, they weren’t fixed because the band was still too loud.
Musiq started to lose me when he went into an extended version of Teach Me (off his latest Luvanmusiq). The song went from four minutes to 20 because he decided to take a break and change clothes. While we waited, one of his backup singers introduced the band.
Musiq returned in a new outfit and a piece of candy in his mouth.
He politely ate it (while checking his phone) and the band kept playing Teach Me. Oh, I forgot another reason the song was so long – he decided to have a man moment, explaining why men are the way they are. I didn’t have a problem with that, I just think he should have had this man moment and not changed clothes.
After singing a new version of Who Knows (stick with the old), he went into Don’t Change. That ended up being the best song of the night – and the last song I heard because my friend had to go to work.
I usually stay until the end, but this night, I didn’t feel bad leaving before hearing B.U.D.D.Y. I hope Musiq can overcome those technical difficulties and pull it together for his next show.
***Concert alerts!***
Chante Moore
I saw Ms. Moore when she did a guest appearance for Norman Brown during the JVC Jazz Festival. That woman has pipes, so I can only imagine how great she’s going to sound at Yoshi’s.
Mary J. Blige
I’ve already seen Mary earlier this year and I’m pleased she’s coming back because my seats we horrible for her previous show. If you’ve never seen her, she’s worth every penny. The last two times I saw her, my behind never saw the seat and the last time I felt like I was going to pass out because I was singing and dancing so hard!
Maxwell
He’s back! Well, can you really be back if you haven’t released an album in seven years and still don’t have one out? Nevertheless, he’s touring and I bought my tickets before they went on sale. I just hope he releases a single before he comes to Oakland Oct. 28 and 29.
Amel Larrieux returns to Yoshi’s
After seeing Musiq and Ledisi on Sept. 18, I checked out Amel Larrieux on Sept. 19. I think that’s the first time I’ve done back-to-back shows.
Knowing I wouldn’t be able to make it to work following a Thursday night show (and going to the club afterwards), I took the day off and spent it chilling and preparing for Amel. I didn’t do anything special – just got the eyebrows and feet done. J Nothing like a little pampering to make your day better.
Amel Larrieux is a Yoshi’s regular – she performed there last year. This go around, her shows were sold out for all three nights. After this experience, I can see why.
There were two main reasons I went to see her – my friend asked me and I enjoy being able to leave the house every now and again. The only Amel album I own is Infinite Possibilities and I don’t know it that well. I’ll put it on when I’m sitting at work trying to focus – which means I’m not listening really close to the lyrics.
Amel’s music is truly mellow, and her show was the same. She funked up some songs, but for the most part, listening to her was like lounging in a hammock next to the beach under a full moon on a warm night – relaxing and peaceful.
Her voice sounded sharp and she had a great rapport with the audience. A lucky 9-year-old girl had the Amel Larrieux version of happy birthday sung to her; she recognized those in the audience who belong to her official Web site Bliss Life and she even asked an audience member if they had been at the show last year. I thought it was cool of her to remember seeing someone from so long ago.
As she sang, it was obvious she really feels the words behind the music. Her backup singer, Amina, was in sync with her every step of the way and their voices blended together well. The rest of the band was on point.
Thinking on her feet, Amel gave three sections of the audience three different parts of a song to sing. You could tell she made it up, but it flowed well with the show.
Her personality was engaging and at the end, I was delighted I got to experience her performance.
Knowing I wouldn’t be able to make it to work following a Thursday night show (and going to the club afterwards), I took the day off and spent it chilling and preparing for Amel. I didn’t do anything special – just got the eyebrows and feet done. J Nothing like a little pampering to make your day better.
Amel Larrieux is a Yoshi’s regular – she performed there last year. This go around, her shows were sold out for all three nights. After this experience, I can see why.
There were two main reasons I went to see her – my friend asked me and I enjoy being able to leave the house every now and again. The only Amel album I own is Infinite Possibilities and I don’t know it that well. I’ll put it on when I’m sitting at work trying to focus – which means I’m not listening really close to the lyrics.
Amel’s music is truly mellow, and her show was the same. She funked up some songs, but for the most part, listening to her was like lounging in a hammock next to the beach under a full moon on a warm night – relaxing and peaceful.
Her voice sounded sharp and she had a great rapport with the audience. A lucky 9-year-old girl had the Amel Larrieux version of happy birthday sung to her; she recognized those in the audience who belong to her official Web site Bliss Life and she even asked an audience member if they had been at the show last year. I thought it was cool of her to remember seeing someone from so long ago.
As she sang, it was obvious she really feels the words behind the music. Her backup singer, Amina, was in sync with her every step of the way and their voices blended together well. The rest of the band was on point.
Thinking on her feet, Amel gave three sections of the audience three different parts of a song to sing. You could tell she made it up, but it flowed well with the show.
Her personality was engaging and at the end, I was delighted I got to experience her performance.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Do you remember Thriller?
This morning, a local DJ remarked that Michael Jackson’s album Thriller is still selling thousands of copies a year – more than 25 years since its initial release.
His comment sparked a memory of when I first saw the video for Thriller. Back in 1984, there was a relatively new television station that played only music videos. Aptly titled Music Television, MTV played music videos 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
It’s hard to fathom that MTV used to be all about music and not what it is today.
In the beginning, MTV did not play black recording artists. Then along came Michael Jackson and Thriller. According to Wikipedia, Michael is the artist who broke the self-imposed MTV color barrier and made it more acceptable for black singer’s videos to be placed in to rotation.
The night of the video’s premiere was preceded by days of anticipation. Everyone knew the day and time the video would be shown. At my god parent’s house, my sister, god sisters, god brother ate fast and I made sure our homework was out of the way.
We did not want to miss this event because we knew the next day everyone would be talking about it at school.
We prepared as if we were going to witness the greatest thing since the showing of the miniseries Roots. In our eyes, this video was something that we would never witness again.
I remember sitting in front of the TV, eating popcorn and waiting for the show to begin.
And what a show it was.
Michael Jackson gave us 14 minutes of something we had never seen before – a video complete with acting and a story line that actually went with the song lyrics. Sitting on the floor, I felt myself becoming scared as the scene opened with Michael and his date being at the movies.
I remember flinching and closing my eyes when Ola Ray did.
Walking down that dark street, we knew something was going to happen. But what? I was on edge the entire video.
Michael Jackson did not disappoint with Thriller. He set the bar high and made it so you expected much more from a music video than just singing and dancing.
Despite what you may think of Michael, his influence and revolutionary way of entertaining us through song changed how we would forever view videos.
There are many who have tried to duplicate his style, but there will never be another artist who has done what Michael has.
Never.
His comment sparked a memory of when I first saw the video for Thriller. Back in 1984, there was a relatively new television station that played only music videos. Aptly titled Music Television, MTV played music videos 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
It’s hard to fathom that MTV used to be all about music and not what it is today.
In the beginning, MTV did not play black recording artists. Then along came Michael Jackson and Thriller. According to Wikipedia, Michael is the artist who broke the self-imposed MTV color barrier and made it more acceptable for black singer’s videos to be placed in to rotation.
The night of the video’s premiere was preceded by days of anticipation. Everyone knew the day and time the video would be shown. At my god parent’s house, my sister, god sisters, god brother ate fast and I made sure our homework was out of the way.
We did not want to miss this event because we knew the next day everyone would be talking about it at school.
We prepared as if we were going to witness the greatest thing since the showing of the miniseries Roots. In our eyes, this video was something that we would never witness again.
I remember sitting in front of the TV, eating popcorn and waiting for the show to begin.
And what a show it was.
Michael Jackson gave us 14 minutes of something we had never seen before – a video complete with acting and a story line that actually went with the song lyrics. Sitting on the floor, I felt myself becoming scared as the scene opened with Michael and his date being at the movies.
I remember flinching and closing my eyes when Ola Ray did.
Walking down that dark street, we knew something was going to happen. But what? I was on edge the entire video.
Michael Jackson did not disappoint with Thriller. He set the bar high and made it so you expected much more from a music video than just singing and dancing.
Despite what you may think of Michael, his influence and revolutionary way of entertaining us through song changed how we would forever view videos.
There are many who have tried to duplicate his style, but there will never be another artist who has done what Michael has.
Never.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Obama and my mama
Let me preface this blog entry by saying it won’t have anything to do with music. You probably could have guessed that from the title.
I can not pass up the opportunity to talk about the excitement this election season is having on my family – in particular, my mother.
First, let me let you in on a little family background. Politics were not a topic of discussion in my house. My mother was too busy rearing two daughters to discuss such things. Any talk about politics would be my father’s domain – but I can’t recall having conversations with my father about politics when I was younger either.
My mother didn’t take us to the polls when she cast her vote because she didn’t – she was too busy working.
It’s not until recently that mom has been exercising her right. She’s not a fan of either Bushes and she used to like Clinton (Bill that is), but he fell out of her favor when the current process of selecting a candidate for the Democrats began.
As most people are aware, last week was the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Denver, Colorado. I was reared in Denver and my family still lives there. My sister volunteered at the convention and my extended family all had a part in the historic occasion.
Unable to travel home, I lived vicariously through my sister’s five-day odyssey (boy, she has some great stories to tell and I hope she blogs about it like I told her to).
Back to mom. I called her to catch up and the conversation quickly turned to Barack Obama. “Do you really think he has a shot at winning the presidency?” she asked with a cautiousness in her voice.
Born in 1943, my mother has been through plenty as a Black woman in America. She’s experienced Jim Crow laws firsthand and has lived through the Civil Rights movement.
She knows being alive to witness a Black man be a major contender for the presidency of the United States is a historic occasion she never expected to see in her lifetime – or mine or the children I have yet to have.
As our talk continued, my mom went on and on about how she watched every moment of the DNC on CSPAN. “I didn’t want to hear what the reporters had to say,” she told me.
“Did you see Ted Kennedy?” she asked. “Stevie Wonder tore it up and Jennifer Hudson did a good job singing the national anthem,” she continued.
“Michelle Obama’s speech was really good and their daughters are too cute.” On and on my mom went about everything she saw.
I couldn’t help but feel a mixture of shock, pride and delight as I listened to my mother inform me about the lies “they” keep telling about Barack and how Hillary gets on her “last nerve.”
Never before, my mother said, has she watched a convention. “I never saw the need.”
But Barack Obama, with his passion to move America in a different direction, has my mother in a place she thought she would never be – hopeful that, come Nov. 4, this country will elect the right man to office. Not just because he’s a Black man, but because he’s the best option to lead this nation out of the despair and dysfunction it currently is in.
I anticipate that on Jan. 20, 2009, my mom will be beaming with pride as Barack Obama is sworn in as the 44th president of the United States of America.
I know I will.
I can not pass up the opportunity to talk about the excitement this election season is having on my family – in particular, my mother.
First, let me let you in on a little family background. Politics were not a topic of discussion in my house. My mother was too busy rearing two daughters to discuss such things. Any talk about politics would be my father’s domain – but I can’t recall having conversations with my father about politics when I was younger either.
My mother didn’t take us to the polls when she cast her vote because she didn’t – she was too busy working.
It’s not until recently that mom has been exercising her right. She’s not a fan of either Bushes and she used to like Clinton (Bill that is), but he fell out of her favor when the current process of selecting a candidate for the Democrats began.
As most people are aware, last week was the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Denver, Colorado. I was reared in Denver and my family still lives there. My sister volunteered at the convention and my extended family all had a part in the historic occasion.
Unable to travel home, I lived vicariously through my sister’s five-day odyssey (boy, she has some great stories to tell and I hope she blogs about it like I told her to).
Back to mom. I called her to catch up and the conversation quickly turned to Barack Obama. “Do you really think he has a shot at winning the presidency?” she asked with a cautiousness in her voice.
Born in 1943, my mother has been through plenty as a Black woman in America. She’s experienced Jim Crow laws firsthand and has lived through the Civil Rights movement.
She knows being alive to witness a Black man be a major contender for the presidency of the United States is a historic occasion she never expected to see in her lifetime – or mine or the children I have yet to have.
As our talk continued, my mom went on and on about how she watched every moment of the DNC on CSPAN. “I didn’t want to hear what the reporters had to say,” she told me.
“Did you see Ted Kennedy?” she asked. “Stevie Wonder tore it up and Jennifer Hudson did a good job singing the national anthem,” she continued.
“Michelle Obama’s speech was really good and their daughters are too cute.” On and on my mom went about everything she saw.
I couldn’t help but feel a mixture of shock, pride and delight as I listened to my mother inform me about the lies “they” keep telling about Barack and how Hillary gets on her “last nerve.”
Never before, my mother said, has she watched a convention. “I never saw the need.”
But Barack Obama, with his passion to move America in a different direction, has my mother in a place she thought she would never be – hopeful that, come Nov. 4, this country will elect the right man to office. Not just because he’s a Black man, but because he’s the best option to lead this nation out of the despair and dysfunction it currently is in.
I anticipate that on Jan. 20, 2009, my mom will be beaming with pride as Barack Obama is sworn in as the 44th president of the United States of America.
I know I will.
Chocolate Legs and Eric Benet
Eric Benet wants me to wrap my chocolate legs around him.
Um, well, that’s what he was singing about during the celebration of a local radio personality’s birthday. Of course, I just knew he was singing directly to me seeing as though I was really close to the stage.
Forget about the 30 or so women who were right in front of the stage; he looked me in my eyes (through darks shades) and sang Chocolate Legs to me and only me. Maybe I’m stretching it, but I was there and you weren't.
Eric was the invited guest for Kevin Brown’s 50th birthday party. Several hundred people attended the event in support of Kevin, and for a worthwhile cause – helping children returning to school.
The price of admission was a backpack full of school supplies or $20. I chose the former.
Despite being in line 30 minutes before the doors opened and with only about 50 people ahead of us, my girls and I were still unable to secure seating (there were a lot of VIP sections. What’s up with that?), so we decided to grab something to eat next door.
Unfortunately we missed the surprise appearances of D’Wayne Wiggins of Tony! Toni! Tone! and comedian Mark Curry.
No biggie since we were really there to see Eric Benet. He took the stage around 9 o’clock and sang four songs – Feminity, Georgy Porgy, the aforementioned Chocolate Legs (from his soon-to-be-released album Love & Life out Sept. 9) and his latest single You’re The Only One. I’ve never seen Eric perform live, but he was well worth my backpack full of school supplies.
Eric’s voice was clear and crisp (despite the sub par sound system). I’m sure every woman in the audience felt like he wanted them to wrap their legs around him. There were even a few women in the front row who were trying to make that happen, and Eric had to step back from the stage because several of them couldn’t keep their hands to themselves.
I don’t blame them though. That man oozes sexy. The lips and five o’clock shadow just did it for me!
According to Eric’s Web site he plans to tour in support of Love & Live. Check him out – I actually plan to buy his new album based on his performance (Chocolate Legs had a little something to do with the decision as well).
Um, well, that’s what he was singing about during the celebration of a local radio personality’s birthday. Of course, I just knew he was singing directly to me seeing as though I was really close to the stage.
Forget about the 30 or so women who were right in front of the stage; he looked me in my eyes (through darks shades) and sang Chocolate Legs to me and only me. Maybe I’m stretching it, but I was there and you weren't.
Eric was the invited guest for Kevin Brown’s 50th birthday party. Several hundred people attended the event in support of Kevin, and for a worthwhile cause – helping children returning to school.
The price of admission was a backpack full of school supplies or $20. I chose the former.
Despite being in line 30 minutes before the doors opened and with only about 50 people ahead of us, my girls and I were still unable to secure seating (there were a lot of VIP sections. What’s up with that?), so we decided to grab something to eat next door.
Unfortunately we missed the surprise appearances of D’Wayne Wiggins of Tony! Toni! Tone! and comedian Mark Curry.
No biggie since we were really there to see Eric Benet. He took the stage around 9 o’clock and sang four songs – Feminity, Georgy Porgy, the aforementioned Chocolate Legs (from his soon-to-be-released album Love & Life out Sept. 9) and his latest single You’re The Only One. I’ve never seen Eric perform live, but he was well worth my backpack full of school supplies.
Eric’s voice was clear and crisp (despite the sub par sound system). I’m sure every woman in the audience felt like he wanted them to wrap their legs around him. There were even a few women in the front row who were trying to make that happen, and Eric had to step back from the stage because several of them couldn’t keep their hands to themselves.
I don’t blame them though. That man oozes sexy. The lips and five o’clock shadow just did it for me!
According to Eric’s Web site he plans to tour in support of Love & Live. Check him out – I actually plan to buy his new album based on his performance (Chocolate Legs had a little something to do with the decision as well).
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Can't let go -- but really want to
I’m in a bit of a quandary right now.
I still own cassette tapes.
I know I’m not the only one, but among my friends, I think I just might be.
What 8-tracks were to my parent’s generation, cassette tapes are to mine – classics. It took me a long while to switch to CDs. I told myself CDs weren’t as good as cassettes and I would never change over.
Obviously I got over that thinking. Sidebar, I was the same way with VHS tapes and DVDs. I didn’t make that switch until my sister bought me a DVD player for Christmas one year. Even then, it took a minute before I realized just how much better quality a DVD was.
I’m still trying to figure out why I’m holding on to these tapes, especially since I don’t have anything to play them on. A few months ago I replaced the cassette radio in my car with a CD/MP3 player, so there went my only avenue for playing a tape.
What am I to do with these cassettes?
There’s a record store where I live called Rasputin Music. They buy used CDs and DVDs. Their used section is outstanding and you generally can find that CD you’ve long forgotten about. You know the one you remember one day while you’re driving down the highway, listening to the radio and Troop’s All I Do Is Think of you comes on?
I had that happen to me with Intro – their first album. I have it on tape, but luckily Rasputin had it on CD.
They used to buy back tapes, but the last time I was in there, there wasn’t a cassette tape in sight. I wonder what they did with them. Hum, maybe they sent them to cassette tape heaven where they are now conversing with 8-track and reel-to-reel, reminiscing about the good ol’ days.
Anyone have any really good ideas on how I can dispose of such classics as Johnny Gill’s self-titled album, New Edition’s Under the Blue Moon, Kriss Krosses’ Da Bomb or Ex-Girlfriend’s X Marks the Spot? Wait, what in the heck did Ex-Girlfriend sing???
I can’t bring myself to throw these in the trash. I’m trying to be an environmentally conscious person, but really, what else can I do with them?
I still own cassette tapes.
I know I’m not the only one, but among my friends, I think I just might be.
What 8-tracks were to my parent’s generation, cassette tapes are to mine – classics. It took me a long while to switch to CDs. I told myself CDs weren’t as good as cassettes and I would never change over.
Obviously I got over that thinking. Sidebar, I was the same way with VHS tapes and DVDs. I didn’t make that switch until my sister bought me a DVD player for Christmas one year. Even then, it took a minute before I realized just how much better quality a DVD was.
I’m still trying to figure out why I’m holding on to these tapes, especially since I don’t have anything to play them on. A few months ago I replaced the cassette radio in my car with a CD/MP3 player, so there went my only avenue for playing a tape.
What am I to do with these cassettes?
There’s a record store where I live called Rasputin Music. They buy used CDs and DVDs. Their used section is outstanding and you generally can find that CD you’ve long forgotten about. You know the one you remember one day while you’re driving down the highway, listening to the radio and Troop’s All I Do Is Think of you comes on?
I had that happen to me with Intro – their first album. I have it on tape, but luckily Rasputin had it on CD.
They used to buy back tapes, but the last time I was in there, there wasn’t a cassette tape in sight. I wonder what they did with them. Hum, maybe they sent them to cassette tape heaven where they are now conversing with 8-track and reel-to-reel, reminiscing about the good ol’ days.
Anyone have any really good ideas on how I can dispose of such classics as Johnny Gill’s self-titled album, New Edition’s Under the Blue Moon, Kriss Krosses’ Da Bomb or Ex-Girlfriend’s X Marks the Spot? Wait, what in the heck did Ex-Girlfriend sing???
I can’t bring myself to throw these in the trash. I’m trying to be an environmentally conscious person, but really, what else can I do with them?
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Hatin’ on J-i-l-l S-c-o-t-t
I am a huge fan of Jill Scott. Actually, I don’t think the word “huge” really captures how much I love Jill. Ever since the release of her classic Who Is Jill Scott: Words and Sounds, Volume I, I’ve been hooked.
I’ll admit, it took awhile before I was aware of who Jill Scott was. At the time I was heavily into Erykah Badu and wasn’t interested in anyone else.
Luckily, I opened my ears and embraced the music of a singer who can really “sang.” I probably listen to her at least once a day.
Her latest project, The Real Thing was the best album of 2007. From previous albums, you could tell Jill has a sensual side, but this album leaves no doubt about it. Just listen real closely to "Crown Royal," "Come See Me," "Epiphany" and "All I."
I’ve seen Miss Scott perform live on many occasions and each performance is better than the last. She’s on my list of top five best concerts of all time. When you go to a Jill Scott show, you get more than a performance – you walk out holding your head a little higher and your walk is a bit lighter.
After seeing her in 2001, a few girlfriends and I headed to a “special” store and bought some unmentionables because of the things Jill talked about. TMI, I know, but that’s how Jill makes you feel once you see her live.
In 2004, some friends and I went to see Jill on what was dubbed The Buzz Tour. Held at a standing-room only venue, she performed songs from her yet to be released album Beautifully Human: Words and Sounds Volume II.
The performance lasted a little more than an hour – leaving the entire audience wanting more. Hence, the reason it was called The Buzz Tour.
Afterwards, my friends and I hung around. Why, I have no idea because we usually beat the crowd out, but we stayed long enough to strike up a conversation with her band members (they were really cool).
Eventually, Jill came from backstage. She greeted us and we told her how much we liked her show and couldn’t wait for the album. She said there was room for improvement (we didn’t feel the same, but she would know better than we would).
She took a photo with us and that was that.
Fast forward to 2007, and one of these friends (she will remain nameless), has decided she doesn’t like Jill anymore because she wasn’t “nice” to us the night we met her. Confused, I called the other person who was there and asked if she remembered the event the same way I did. She did and said, “I don’t know what she’s talking about, but Jill was very kind and gracious.”
A few weeks ago, I was talking to the now non-Jill Scott fan about the BET Awards (read my previous blog). We were discussing performances and my friend stated that Jill’s performance wasn’t all that great. She continued on about what Jill was wearing (not flattering, she says). I thought the opposite and told her so.
Her reply? “You would think that because you like her.”
I shot back, “And you would think that because you don’t.”
A couple of days later, I was listening to Hate On Me, and it clicked – Jill wrote that song for people like my friend. “Hate on me/Hater/Now or later/cause I’m gonna do me/You’ll be mad baby.”
I’m not saying my friend was mad – she was expressing her opinion. But she definitely is a Jill Scott hater.
It’s cool though, because in my eyes, Jill will always be one of the best singers/poets/performers of my day, and the haters can “go head and hate!”
Upcoming concerts alert!
Aug. 16 at the Sleep Train Pavilion at Concord: JVC Jazz Festival starring George Benson, Boney James, Ramsey Lewis and Norman Brown’s Summer Storm (featuring Chante Moore, Paul Taylor & Alex Bugnon
Aug. 16 at Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View: Rock the Bells Tour starring A Tribe Called Quest, Nas, Mos Def, The Pharcyde, Rakim, Method Man & Redman, Raekwon & Ghostface, Dead Prez and more.
I’ll admit, it took awhile before I was aware of who Jill Scott was. At the time I was heavily into Erykah Badu and wasn’t interested in anyone else.
Luckily, I opened my ears and embraced the music of a singer who can really “sang.” I probably listen to her at least once a day.
Her latest project, The Real Thing was the best album of 2007. From previous albums, you could tell Jill has a sensual side, but this album leaves no doubt about it. Just listen real closely to "Crown Royal," "Come See Me," "Epiphany" and "All I."
I’ve seen Miss Scott perform live on many occasions and each performance is better than the last. She’s on my list of top five best concerts of all time. When you go to a Jill Scott show, you get more than a performance – you walk out holding your head a little higher and your walk is a bit lighter.
After seeing her in 2001, a few girlfriends and I headed to a “special” store and bought some unmentionables because of the things Jill talked about. TMI, I know, but that’s how Jill makes you feel once you see her live.
In 2004, some friends and I went to see Jill on what was dubbed The Buzz Tour. Held at a standing-room only venue, she performed songs from her yet to be released album Beautifully Human: Words and Sounds Volume II.
The performance lasted a little more than an hour – leaving the entire audience wanting more. Hence, the reason it was called The Buzz Tour.
Afterwards, my friends and I hung around. Why, I have no idea because we usually beat the crowd out, but we stayed long enough to strike up a conversation with her band members (they were really cool).
Eventually, Jill came from backstage. She greeted us and we told her how much we liked her show and couldn’t wait for the album. She said there was room for improvement (we didn’t feel the same, but she would know better than we would).
She took a photo with us and that was that.
Fast forward to 2007, and one of these friends (she will remain nameless), has decided she doesn’t like Jill anymore because she wasn’t “nice” to us the night we met her. Confused, I called the other person who was there and asked if she remembered the event the same way I did. She did and said, “I don’t know what she’s talking about, but Jill was very kind and gracious.”
A few weeks ago, I was talking to the now non-Jill Scott fan about the BET Awards (read my previous blog). We were discussing performances and my friend stated that Jill’s performance wasn’t all that great. She continued on about what Jill was wearing (not flattering, she says). I thought the opposite and told her so.
Her reply? “You would think that because you like her.”
I shot back, “And you would think that because you don’t.”
A couple of days later, I was listening to Hate On Me, and it clicked – Jill wrote that song for people like my friend. “Hate on me/Hater/Now or later/cause I’m gonna do me/You’ll be mad baby.”
I’m not saying my friend was mad – she was expressing her opinion. But she definitely is a Jill Scott hater.
It’s cool though, because in my eyes, Jill will always be one of the best singers/poets/performers of my day, and the haters can “go head and hate!”
Upcoming concerts alert!
Aug. 16 at the Sleep Train Pavilion at Concord: JVC Jazz Festival starring George Benson, Boney James, Ramsey Lewis and Norman Brown’s Summer Storm (featuring Chante Moore, Paul Taylor & Alex Bugnon
Aug. 16 at Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View: Rock the Bells Tour starring A Tribe Called Quest, Nas, Mos Def, The Pharcyde, Rakim, Method Man & Redman, Raekwon & Ghostface, Dead Prez and more.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Ticketmaster and those *^$#? fees!
As you can tell from the header, I’m a little peeved at Ticketmaster. I write this as I’m looking at my most recent purchase from their Web site.
Can someone please explain to me why the fees are so outrageous when you want to buy a concert ticket???
I know everyone charges fees, but my current beef is with Ticketmaster.
I recently purchased tickets to Musiq and Ledisi at the Warfield in San Francisco on Sept. 18. I had no choice but to buy them online.
I’m the queen of not paying services fees. I avoid them at all costs. I make every effort to go to the venue and buy the tickets in person.
Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to do that this time. The Warfield is only open 1½ hours before show time, and I’m also the queen of getting the best seats possible (after sitting in the front row dead center at a concert last year, I’m hooked. See photo at right).
Waiting until the day of the show to buy my tickets is never an option.
The original price of the ticket was $37.50. But wait, there’s that “convenience charge” of $9.60. Oh, hold up, one more fee – an order processing fee of $2.55. My ticket went from $37.50 to $49.65 just like that. Times that by two and it’s $99.30. Almost $100 for two tickets that originally cost $75.
It just burns me up inside that I paid damn near $25 extra for some concert tickets!!! I really would like to know how they determine how much “extra” they are going to charge per ticket and why they continue to get away with gouging people’s wallet.
Ticketmaster is making a killing because they basically have a monopoly on the market. Everyone knows that when it comes to buying a ticket for anything – be it a concert, football game, symphony or ballet – the first place you check is Ticketmaster.
If they had more competition, the charges they saddle us with would have to come down.
Until then, every time I need to buy a ticket, I’ll try my best to find a way around using Ticketmaster.
Can someone please explain to me why the fees are so outrageous when you want to buy a concert ticket???
I know everyone charges fees, but my current beef is with Ticketmaster.
I recently purchased tickets to Musiq and Ledisi at the Warfield in San Francisco on Sept. 18. I had no choice but to buy them online.
I’m the queen of not paying services fees. I avoid them at all costs. I make every effort to go to the venue and buy the tickets in person.
Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to do that this time. The Warfield is only open 1½ hours before show time, and I’m also the queen of getting the best seats possible (after sitting in the front row dead center at a concert last year, I’m hooked. See photo at right).
Waiting until the day of the show to buy my tickets is never an option.
The original price of the ticket was $37.50. But wait, there’s that “convenience charge” of $9.60. Oh, hold up, one more fee – an order processing fee of $2.55. My ticket went from $37.50 to $49.65 just like that. Times that by two and it’s $99.30. Almost $100 for two tickets that originally cost $75.
It just burns me up inside that I paid damn near $25 extra for some concert tickets!!! I really would like to know how they determine how much “extra” they are going to charge per ticket and why they continue to get away with gouging people’s wallet.
Ticketmaster is making a killing because they basically have a monopoly on the market. Everyone knows that when it comes to buying a ticket for anything – be it a concert, football game, symphony or ballet – the first place you check is Ticketmaster.
If they had more competition, the charges they saddle us with would have to come down.
Until then, every time I need to buy a ticket, I’ll try my best to find a way around using Ticketmaster.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Upcoming tour schedules
So far this year, I’ve seen Chris Botti, Jill Scott, Toni Braxton, Mary J. Blige & Jay Z, and Kenny Lattimore live. In September, I have the pleasure of seeing Musiq and Ledisi.
Below you will find the link to the schedule for some of my favorite artists. Be sure to check back often as I plan to update tour dates as they become available.
Jill Scott
Official site
Ticketmaster
Erykah Badu
Badu’s myspace page
Ticketmaster
Kanye West
Official site
Ticketmaster
Kem
Official site
Ticketmaster
Chris Botti
Official site
Ticketmaster
Musiq
Official site
Ticketmaster
Mary J. Blige
Official site
Ticketmaster
Alicia Keys
Official site
Ticketmaster
Earth, Wind & Fire
Official site
Ticketmaster
Stevie Wonder
Official site
Ticketmaster:
Santana
Official site
Ticketmaster
Janet Jackson
Official site
Ticketmaster
India Arie – not currently on tour, but will make her Broadway debut in Ntozake Shange's For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Is Enuf beginning Sept. 8.
Official site
Below you will find the link to the schedule for some of my favorite artists. Be sure to check back often as I plan to update tour dates as they become available.
Jill Scott
Official site
Ticketmaster
Erykah Badu
Badu’s myspace page
Ticketmaster
Kanye West
Official site
Ticketmaster
Kem
Official site
Ticketmaster
Chris Botti
Official site
Ticketmaster
Musiq
Official site
Ticketmaster
Mary J. Blige
Official site
Ticketmaster
Alicia Keys
Official site
Ticketmaster
Earth, Wind & Fire
Official site
Ticketmaster
Stevie Wonder
Official site
Ticketmaster:
Santana
Official site
Ticketmaster
Janet Jackson
Official site
Ticketmaster
India Arie – not currently on tour, but will make her Broadway debut in Ntozake Shange's For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Is Enuf beginning Sept. 8.
Official site
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
My “Dream” experience
I just spent July 13-20 in Washington D.C., celebrating the 100-year anniversary of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. Founded Jan. 15, 1908 on the campus of Howard University, AKA is the first and oldest Greek-letter organization established for college-trained black women.
More than 25,000 members came together in spirit and sisterhood to honor our legacy and look toward the next 100 years. I came away for the experience with a renewed commitment to my illustrious organization.
With a gathering of so many individuals, there’s bound to be a party or three. My e-mail inbox was flooded with so many different celebrations that I eventually lost track. I did, however, make a list of what I received so I would at least have an idea of what was happening every night.
First, this is what I think about going to clubs – they should all be free and the drinks should cost $8 or less. I’ve been over the excitement of going to the club for some time now. I’m more of a lounge/restaurant/bar goer these days.
On Thursday, a few of us ventured out to Love Nightclub. From what I’ve been told from others, this place was known as Dream and had it going on. I was hoping it was still the same since we were shelling out $30 for the Love experience.
The main reason we headed to Love (outside of wanting to get our groove on) was Idris Elba (of The Wire fame) hosting the event, and performances by some R&B singers.
Sidebar: As we were standing in line, an employee made the mistake of telling me that Boris Kodjoe was hosting a party at another club called The Park. I was ready to get out of line and head there because seeing such deliciousness in person really would have made my night!
Upon entering Love, the music was your typical urban radio fare. On the second floor however, the DJ was playing the likes of Cameo, New Edition, Guy, Michael Jackson, etc. This was the floor I needed to be (and stayed) on the rest of the night.
During our cab ride, my thoughts were, “Is Idris Elba really worth $30?”
Three words – yes he was!
There’s something to be said for seeing such a fine specimen of a man in person. Idris didn’t disappoint in the looks department, but he needed to chill with all the profanity. Stringer Bell is dead (if you know The Wire you know what I’m talking about).
I guess I should talk about the performances since this is a blog about music.
The first act was Lloyd, and I’ll be honest – never heard of him, didn’t know what he was singing and won’t be buying his album after seeing him perform. He's a cutie though.
Mario took the stage next and I knew one song – “Let Me Love You.” Again, don’t own any of his albums and he won’t make it into my iPod rotation.
Dwele was up last. Now, I used to own Dwele’s first album “Subject” but sold it after I realized I never listened to it. He gave a decent performance though. Actually, all three acts sounded pretty good.
The night ended with Idris taking over the DJ booth (and mike). He’s apparently done it before because he had the crowd grooving for the rest of the night.
I would recommend Love to anyone looking for a good time. Although it has four levels, only two were open the night I went. Could be that the $30 price tag kept some away.
A bit of advice for those who decide to host parties when large groups come to town – unless there are true ballers and shot callers in town (i.e., NBA All-Star weekend), it’s not a good idea to charge upwards of $50 when the economy is on the brink of a recession and we’ve already spent a grip just coming to town.
More than 25,000 members came together in spirit and sisterhood to honor our legacy and look toward the next 100 years. I came away for the experience with a renewed commitment to my illustrious organization.
With a gathering of so many individuals, there’s bound to be a party or three. My e-mail inbox was flooded with so many different celebrations that I eventually lost track. I did, however, make a list of what I received so I would at least have an idea of what was happening every night.
First, this is what I think about going to clubs – they should all be free and the drinks should cost $8 or less. I’ve been over the excitement of going to the club for some time now. I’m more of a lounge/restaurant/bar goer these days.
On Thursday, a few of us ventured out to Love Nightclub. From what I’ve been told from others, this place was known as Dream and had it going on. I was hoping it was still the same since we were shelling out $30 for the Love experience.
The main reason we headed to Love (outside of wanting to get our groove on) was Idris Elba (of The Wire fame) hosting the event, and performances by some R&B singers.
Sidebar: As we were standing in line, an employee made the mistake of telling me that Boris Kodjoe was hosting a party at another club called The Park. I was ready to get out of line and head there because seeing such deliciousness in person really would have made my night!
Upon entering Love, the music was your typical urban radio fare. On the second floor however, the DJ was playing the likes of Cameo, New Edition, Guy, Michael Jackson, etc. This was the floor I needed to be (and stayed) on the rest of the night.
During our cab ride, my thoughts were, “Is Idris Elba really worth $30?”
Three words – yes he was!
There’s something to be said for seeing such a fine specimen of a man in person. Idris didn’t disappoint in the looks department, but he needed to chill with all the profanity. Stringer Bell is dead (if you know The Wire you know what I’m talking about).
I guess I should talk about the performances since this is a blog about music.
The first act was Lloyd, and I’ll be honest – never heard of him, didn’t know what he was singing and won’t be buying his album after seeing him perform. He's a cutie though.
Mario took the stage next and I knew one song – “Let Me Love You.” Again, don’t own any of his albums and he won’t make it into my iPod rotation.
Dwele was up last. Now, I used to own Dwele’s first album “Subject” but sold it after I realized I never listened to it. He gave a decent performance though. Actually, all three acts sounded pretty good.
The night ended with Idris taking over the DJ booth (and mike). He’s apparently done it before because he had the crowd grooving for the rest of the night.
I would recommend Love to anyone looking for a good time. Although it has four levels, only two were open the night I went. Could be that the $30 price tag kept some away.
A bit of advice for those who decide to host parties when large groups come to town – unless there are true ballers and shot callers in town (i.e., NBA All-Star weekend), it’s not a good idea to charge upwards of $50 when the economy is on the brink of a recession and we’ve already spent a grip just coming to town.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
2008 BET Awards
First, a disclaimer (or two).
I don’t have cable. Well, let me clarify – I have very basic cable. Not expanded basic, but simple basic. You know, NBC, CBS and ABC.
A few years ago, I downgraded my cable because of some life changes. Even though things have greatly improved, I see no need to go back to paying $45 for TV. Once you go without, you realize you aren’t missing anything.
I said all that to say – I don’t have Black Entertainment Television, a k a BET – but I do have a friend who tapes things for me when I ask. After a few mishaps, I finally received the tape with the 2008 BET Awards on it, and I watched it tonight.
Second disclaimer – I’m not a fan of BET. Haven’t been for many years. I stopped watching it around the time they got rid of Tavis Smiley. BET needs a major overhaul – and quick.
I would be telling a small lie if I said I watched the entire awards show. I didn’t. I fast forwarded through the majority of it. See, I’m a product of the 80s – New Edition, Michael Jackson, Run DMC, you get the picture? I don’t listen to half of what’s currently out because I just can’t take it. (Don’t get me started on Lil’ Wayne and that damn lollipop song).
This is what I did see and enjoyed about the show:
Alicia Keys had me out of my seat when she brought SWV, En Vogue and TLC on stage with her to sing Weak, Hold On and Waterfalls respectively. Those are three girl groups I still listen to even though none of them have recently released an album. Shoot, I was jamming to SWV the other day. Their music is music I’ve always related to.
I don’t listen to gospel, but Marvin Sapp raised the roof. I couldn’t help but wonder though, if he and the gospel category were out of place at this show. With all the ass shaking other performers had on stage, it just didn’t seem appropriate after hearing Sapp sing about the Lord.
Maxwell, where have you been! When he walked out on stage to pay tribute to Al Green, I clutched my chest and held my breath. The man is still fine, sounds superb and needs to hurry the hell up with his next album. I mean, it’s been seven years already!
My real purpose for watching the show was Miss Jill Scott. I knew she was singing a tribute to Al Green and as usual, she didn’t disappoint. If you’ve never seen Jill perform live, you are missing one of the best artists of our time.
Al Green showed the younger generation just why he’s been in the music biz for 30 years. He wasn’t lip synching (come on Usher, you’ve been in the game too long for that!) and everyone in the audience knew his songs. I was up and dancing when he launched into Love and Happiness. Go head Al!
I really wonder (all the time) will the current crop of rappers be around in 30 years? And will there be people who will actually pay to go see them? I’ll save that for another blog.
I was disappointed when Alicia Keys won over Mary J. Blige for best female artist. I love both, but Mary’s album was just superior to me. I guess I should be happy someone with some talent won. Also, why did Mary not perform? I would have taken her over Rihanna any day.
Lastly, it’s never cute when an overweight person’s stomach is on display. Rick Ross knows he needed to close his shirt during the T-Pain performance. Dang, I sound like my mama!
I don’t have cable. Well, let me clarify – I have very basic cable. Not expanded basic, but simple basic. You know, NBC, CBS and ABC.
A few years ago, I downgraded my cable because of some life changes. Even though things have greatly improved, I see no need to go back to paying $45 for TV. Once you go without, you realize you aren’t missing anything.
I said all that to say – I don’t have Black Entertainment Television, a k a BET – but I do have a friend who tapes things for me when I ask. After a few mishaps, I finally received the tape with the 2008 BET Awards on it, and I watched it tonight.
Second disclaimer – I’m not a fan of BET. Haven’t been for many years. I stopped watching it around the time they got rid of Tavis Smiley. BET needs a major overhaul – and quick.
I would be telling a small lie if I said I watched the entire awards show. I didn’t. I fast forwarded through the majority of it. See, I’m a product of the 80s – New Edition, Michael Jackson, Run DMC, you get the picture? I don’t listen to half of what’s currently out because I just can’t take it. (Don’t get me started on Lil’ Wayne and that damn lollipop song).
This is what I did see and enjoyed about the show:
Alicia Keys had me out of my seat when she brought SWV, En Vogue and TLC on stage with her to sing Weak, Hold On and Waterfalls respectively. Those are three girl groups I still listen to even though none of them have recently released an album. Shoot, I was jamming to SWV the other day. Their music is music I’ve always related to.
I don’t listen to gospel, but Marvin Sapp raised the roof. I couldn’t help but wonder though, if he and the gospel category were out of place at this show. With all the ass shaking other performers had on stage, it just didn’t seem appropriate after hearing Sapp sing about the Lord.
Maxwell, where have you been! When he walked out on stage to pay tribute to Al Green, I clutched my chest and held my breath. The man is still fine, sounds superb and needs to hurry the hell up with his next album. I mean, it’s been seven years already!
My real purpose for watching the show was Miss Jill Scott. I knew she was singing a tribute to Al Green and as usual, she didn’t disappoint. If you’ve never seen Jill perform live, you are missing one of the best artists of our time.
Al Green showed the younger generation just why he’s been in the music biz for 30 years. He wasn’t lip synching (come on Usher, you’ve been in the game too long for that!) and everyone in the audience knew his songs. I was up and dancing when he launched into Love and Happiness. Go head Al!
I really wonder (all the time) will the current crop of rappers be around in 30 years? And will there be people who will actually pay to go see them? I’ll save that for another blog.
I was disappointed when Alicia Keys won over Mary J. Blige for best female artist. I love both, but Mary’s album was just superior to me. I guess I should be happy someone with some talent won. Also, why did Mary not perform? I would have taken her over Rihanna any day.
Lastly, it’s never cute when an overweight person’s stomach is on display. Rick Ross knows he needed to close his shirt during the T-Pain performance. Dang, I sound like my mama!
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Kenny Lattimore @ Yoshi's July 3
I began my Fourth of July weekend with one of the most underrated vocalist of my time -- Kenny Lattimore. I purchased tickets to the first of his eight shows at Yoshi's in Jack London Square, Oakland (there's a newly-opened version in San Francisco), and spent the entire week excited about spending an evening with a man whose voice I enjoy listening to.
I love Yoshi's. The venue is intimate and there's not a bad seat in the house. The sound is always perfect and everyone I've seen perform there has always been on point.
I also love Kenny, and this is the first time I've ever seen him live, so the fact that I was blessed with the opportunity to see him at Yoshi's was exhilarating.
From the first note, Kenny had me hooked. "Come to me/Come closer/I'm feeling your love/All over," he sang -- and I sang right along with him (not as loud as I usually do when I go to a live show because, as I stated before, Yoshi's is intimate and I didn't want the couple sitting next to me to say, 'Hey, we came to hear Kenny sing, not you.'
From Come To Me (off his third album Weekend) he moved onto Days Like This (on From The Soul of Man). The transition was seamless and the audience was into him from beginning to end.
Other songs he delved into included Climb the Mountain, Never Too Busy, I Love You More Than You'll Ever Know (which sent chills all up and down my spine!) and Beautiful Girl (from the The Best Man soundtrack).
Kenny has a voice that pulls you in and doesn't let go. When he sang "If I ever leave you baby/You can say I told you so/And if I ever hurt/You know I'd hurt myself as well" it felt like he was singing from a personal experience that has stayed with him despite being married for more than seven years.
Nothing is better than seeing an artist sing with so much raw emotion that you feel it in your soul.
Kenny took probably his most well-known song, For You, and sung a different version, which had a more gospel-feel to it. He then launched into the version we all know and love. The show's closer, Weekend, was just what the audience needed to get amped for the drive home.
At the show's end, Yoshi's announced that the first 50 patrons who wanted to stay for the 10 o'clock show would be admitted. Seeing as though my girl and I didn't have to work the next day, we jumped at the opportunity. And I'm so glad we did!
The 10 o'clock show was much better than the 8 o'clock (and lasted a lot longer), and even Kenny alluded to this when he said he rushed through the first show because he was so focused on time. During the short break in between shows, it appeared him and his band (who sounded phenomenal and was easy on a sista's eyes) regrouped and were better prepared this time around.
At the end of his set, Kenny obliged the audience by taking requests (thanks to the sistagirl who asked for my all-time favorite Can't Get Enough from the Love Jones soundtrack). Other requests were Forgiveness, Make Believe and an a cappella version of Well Done. If you haven't heard this song (it's on From the Soul of Man), look it up on iTunes and just imagine what it sounds like sans music.
I won't speak on the woman who sung a duet with him (I think she forgot she was singing with a married man).
In addition to sounding better than his CDs, Kenny is sexy as hell! Yes, that is Chante's (Moore) man, but good lawd he looks delicious in person! He had an engaging personality and the crowd was really into what he had to say.
If Kenny comes to your area, definitely check him out. The money you spend is worth every last cent.
During the show, Kenny said his new album is called Timeless, and should be out soon. (There's are still tickets available for his Yoshi's performance on July 6.)
Because he's married to a fellow singer, he said the couple spent the last few years focusing on Chante's album. Being the loving and supportive husband he is, he plugged her album -- Love the Woman.
I love Yoshi's. The venue is intimate and there's not a bad seat in the house. The sound is always perfect and everyone I've seen perform there has always been on point.
I also love Kenny, and this is the first time I've ever seen him live, so the fact that I was blessed with the opportunity to see him at Yoshi's was exhilarating.
From the first note, Kenny had me hooked. "Come to me/Come closer/I'm feeling your love/All over," he sang -- and I sang right along with him (not as loud as I usually do when I go to a live show because, as I stated before, Yoshi's is intimate and I didn't want the couple sitting next to me to say, 'Hey, we came to hear Kenny sing, not you.'
From Come To Me (off his third album Weekend) he moved onto Days Like This (on From The Soul of Man). The transition was seamless and the audience was into him from beginning to end.
Other songs he delved into included Climb the Mountain, Never Too Busy, I Love You More Than You'll Ever Know (which sent chills all up and down my spine!) and Beautiful Girl (from the The Best Man soundtrack).
Kenny has a voice that pulls you in and doesn't let go. When he sang "If I ever leave you baby/You can say I told you so/And if I ever hurt/You know I'd hurt myself as well" it felt like he was singing from a personal experience that has stayed with him despite being married for more than seven years.
Nothing is better than seeing an artist sing with so much raw emotion that you feel it in your soul.
Kenny took probably his most well-known song, For You, and sung a different version, which had a more gospel-feel to it. He then launched into the version we all know and love. The show's closer, Weekend, was just what the audience needed to get amped for the drive home.
At the show's end, Yoshi's announced that the first 50 patrons who wanted to stay for the 10 o'clock show would be admitted. Seeing as though my girl and I didn't have to work the next day, we jumped at the opportunity. And I'm so glad we did!
The 10 o'clock show was much better than the 8 o'clock (and lasted a lot longer), and even Kenny alluded to this when he said he rushed through the first show because he was so focused on time. During the short break in between shows, it appeared him and his band (who sounded phenomenal and was easy on a sista's eyes) regrouped and were better prepared this time around.
At the end of his set, Kenny obliged the audience by taking requests (thanks to the sistagirl who asked for my all-time favorite Can't Get Enough from the Love Jones soundtrack). Other requests were Forgiveness, Make Believe and an a cappella version of Well Done. If you haven't heard this song (it's on From the Soul of Man), look it up on iTunes and just imagine what it sounds like sans music.
I won't speak on the woman who sung a duet with him (I think she forgot she was singing with a married man).
In addition to sounding better than his CDs, Kenny is sexy as hell! Yes, that is Chante's (Moore) man, but good lawd he looks delicious in person! He had an engaging personality and the crowd was really into what he had to say.
If Kenny comes to your area, definitely check him out. The money you spend is worth every last cent.
During the show, Kenny said his new album is called Timeless, and should be out soon. (There's are still tickets available for his Yoshi's performance on July 6.)
Because he's married to a fellow singer, he said the couple spent the last few years focusing on Chante's album. Being the loving and supportive husband he is, he plugged her album -- Love the Woman.
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