Good Saturday, world! Nothing but positive energy is radiating through the web page today. Let’s just get straight to the business of music. You know, the hottest songs that hit the blogosphere this week.
The universe is ablaze with the talents of Melanie Fiona. From the Grammys to Jimmy Kimmel, Mel has been the media’s darling these last few weeks. And for good purpose too, her next album is just weeks away. It was appropriate that this was the week her new single, “This Time,” hit the streets. Fiona sings the tales of her relationship fails, but then changing her ways and treating her boo better “this time.” Now, what man can’t appreciate a lyrical love-letter like this? J. Cole adds the 16-bar icing to this delicious cake, brought to you courtesy of the mighty Roc Nation. Enjoy!
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Seems like these days the only time the press writes on Akon is to breath negativity. But Kon’s accomplishments in music are nothing short of phenomenal. Remember his first song, “Locked Up?” This week a new track, “Hurt Somebody,” leaked that will remind you of how dope “Locked Up” was the first time you heard it. This time though he adds the production genius of Uncle Jerry Wonda with Swizz Beatz and the lyrical talents of French Montana. Akon is always one to reach back and give the next-up a chance to shine, so to see him grab Bad Boy’s latest signee is great look for Montana.
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I had to do a double take when I heard Tamia had a new record out. To my surprise, “Beautiful Surprise” is that new record. Hit-making producer Salaam Remi gives the songstress a layup as far as a radio single is concerned. What makes this record remarkable is that it sounds so refreshing because it features NO artist. The song is just Tamia and her beautiful voice rocking effortlessly over Salaam’s layered keys and drums. It’s a mystery to me why Tamia isn’t a superstar artist like some of her counterparts, but I’m sure she isn’t worried. After all, this song is about her superstar husband, who’s a great role model, Phoenix Sun’s player and NBA Ambassador Grant Hill.
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DJ Drama continues to be the most sought after DJ on the mixtape circuit. His Gangsta Grillz music library consists of every type of rapper, from hip-hop legend to backpacker to even never-made-it-out-the-hood rappers. To get on a Gangsta Grillz mixtape is to have a stamp of hip-hop approval from the streets. More then a few artists from his classic series have gone on to become living hip-hop legends. His new single, ‘We In This B*tch,” will feature three hip-hop legends: Ludacris, Young Jeezy and T.I. Up-and-coming artist Future also appears on the track. Expect a new album from Drama soon, as this single serves as the appetizer for the main course.
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Want to hear an incredible new artist? Check out this joint “Paradise.” Meet Rod Rhaspy. He’s part of Cam’ron’s MC clique The UN, along with rapper Vado. What’s cool about “Paradise” is it features Coldplay…well, not really. You see, producer Skitzo — A.K.A Rod Rhaspy — remixed the smash Coldplay record, “Paradise,” then he added some verses and laid it all under a bass-heavy drum-loop. This record definitely wont be for sale legally, but it’s an incredible jack or jux (as we say). Coldplay records are constantly sampled by hip-hop artists, which is one of the reasons the band connects with such a large fan base. After all, an unofficial hip-hop remix on a rock record is a badge of musical respect.
Until we read again!
Brandon ‘TNT’ West
Music Exec / Industry Insider/ The Andy Rooney of Hip Hop Culture
Holla at him @tnt718
