tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54411712413172010952011-10-08T18:29:31.158-04:00Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.comBlogger1941100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-38490565690709384772011-08-16T11:38:00.001-04:002011-08-16T11:38:54.817-04:00

Have you heard of Rebecca Black? Yeah, the Friday girl. Well, she is not only one. Actually, there is a several other young suburban girls from the Ark Music Factory. In our media and celebrity-obsessed culture where getting attention and fame is more important than talent, it is no wonder that these girls are being manufactured. Why not start them out young (obviously these girls have nothing

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-43322861022412798542011-06-03T16:02:00.002-04:002011-06-04T10:12:07.531-04:00

In the past two week, pop divas, Beyonce and Rihanna have released songs that have stirred controversy and further opened up the discussion about feminism and women's rights. Beyonce's anthem "Run the World" and Rihanna's "Man Down" coincidently came out around the same time, however the latter surprisingly for me turned out to be more meaningful and empowering than the former. I remember

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-21124848387767441582011-06-02T12:56:00.002-04:002011-06-07T08:27:42.061-04:00

Hello, everybody! Sorry I have been missing in action for a while, but this semester was really hectic. But I am back and also with a new blog, Futuristically Ancient. Go check it out! I will be cross-posting that blog with this one. This one of the first posts: Let's talk about Betty Davis. I know I should have posted this in March, but as you know school distracted me until now. But better

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-51908184505801191262011-02-15T18:28:00.000-05:002011-02-15T18:28:28.284-05:00

Last Sunday's 53rd annual Grammys was a night full of surprises! The Good: Aretha Franklin Tribute: The show started with well-put-together tribute to the "Queen of Soul". Christina Aguilera, Jennifer Hudson, Yoland Adams, Martina McBride and Florence and the Machine's Florence Welch performed. While at times, the the notes were off and some of the girls screeched, I know they meant well.

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-686116944345473422011-02-01T20:33:00.003-05:002011-02-03T19:31:35.991-05:00

In honor of Kool Herc, who is struggling to pay off medical bills after being hospitalized, this is a great article detailing his accomplishments as a pioneer of Hip-hop: Few individuals can claim a life story that so closely parallels hip-hop’s narrative arc as Clive Campbell, better known as DJ Kool Herc. Often considered the movement’s founding father, an early participant in and innovator

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-77619574910060319232011-01-28T13:27:00.001-05:002011-01-28T13:28:24.874-05:00

"...Elvis was a hero to most But he never meant ---- to me you see Straight up racist that sucker was Simple and plain Mother---- him and John Wayne Cause I'm Black and I'm proud I'm ready and hyped plus I'm amped Most of my heroes don't appear on no stamps..." -- Public Enemy "Fight the Power" A few weeks ago, I was watching the Kennedy Center Honors and as I watched Paul

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-53278226125842949972011-01-10T17:52:00.000-05:002011-01-10T17:52:06.088-05:00

A commotion has started on the internet over Kanye West's new video for "Monster," which features Rick Ross, Jay-z and Nicki Minaj. After watching what is a very disturbing video, I also wanted to make a few comments. The first image that caught my attention was one of the first shots in the video--hanging bodies of white women. Historically speaking, the image reminded me immediately of the

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-81063380013367245062011-01-01T13:54:00.002-05:002011-01-01T14:28:04.090-05:00

During my fall semester, I had a music in film class and I wrote an essay on what influenced the rise and fall of Hollywood Musical from the 1930s to the 1960s. So here it is:The Rise and Fall of Hollywood MusicalsAccording to Barry Grant, film genre critics of Hollywood musicals have tended to focus on The Great Depression’s influence on the rise of the musicals in the 1930s because of the need

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-27591513423632681412010-12-27T13:53:00.005-05:002010-12-27T15:10:57.410-05:00

After a long semester in school, I am returning to my blog. However, I am returning for a sad reason: to pay tribute to the soulful Teen Marie, aka "Lady T" and the "Ivory Queen of Soul," who passed away on Sunday, December 26, at the young age of 54. Here are my favorite songs from Ms. Marie. Rest in Peace. LovergirlFire and Desire with Rick JamesOoo La La LaOut On a LimbAladdin's LampIt Must Be

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-42903290470401534892010-10-07T20:02:00.003-04:002010-10-07T20:09:00.558-04:00

Via Kiss My Black AdsChannel O Tree Animation from Rudi de Wet on Vimeo.

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-89269942219914378752010-08-24T13:35:00.002-04:002010-08-24T13:40:12.043-04:00

Damn Cee-lo for creating such a catchy song that requires me to say F*ck You! 16 times! I have had this song stuck in my head since last week and already have all the lyrics memorized! Cee-lo never ceases to make me love him (oh, Geminis)!

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-83711653406566174202010-08-23T12:43:00.002-04:002010-08-23T15:36:46.382-04:00

On August 14th, 2010, we lost another one of the greats, Abbey Lincoln (original name was Anna Marie Wooldridge and later Aminata Moseka). I found out about Ms. Lincoln last year while looking for famous people born in August (her birthdate is one day before mine). Literally, I just stumbled upon her and decided to give her a listen. The first songs I heard from her was from her collaboration

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-49553928106802207602010-08-03T23:22:00.007-04:002010-08-04T00:37:16.320-04:00

This special post will combine art from Dawn Okoro and some of my favorite songs that I think the art goes with:Some Information on Dawn from her website:Dawn Okoro's work is informed by the composition techniques used in fashion photography. Using oil, acrylic and pencil, she incorporates photography, collage, and ideas from popular culture. Her artwork embodies space, movement, pattern, design,

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-44842026548720062052010-07-22T17:54:00.003-04:002010-07-22T17:57:59.832-04:00

Via Mark Anthony Neal's NewBlackManNational Black Arts Festival in Atlanta Celebrates the 'Radical Soul' of Curtis MayfieldQuiet Legend: The Radical Soul of Curtis Mayfieldby Stephane DunnThis ain't no time for segregatin' (we people who are darker than blue)I'm talking 'bout brown and yellow twoHigh yellow girl, can't you tellYou're just the surface of our dark deep wellSome musicians – not many

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-81301988460194909042010-07-01T14:54:00.002-04:002010-07-01T14:59:31.131-04:00

Via Bold As LoveAfro Punk Festival 2010 from Liza Eckert on Vimeo."Here's some video from two CUNY Graduate Journalism students, and it incorporates a sense of the sights and sounds at the festival along with short interviews with a few folks attending. What's cool is that it underscores the fact that community is so important. That is, everyone needs a place where they don't feel like an

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-82592760680752475992010-06-30T11:23:00.005-04:002010-06-30T14:13:16.169-04:00

Did you see the movie Cadillac Records? You know the story about Leonard Chess (and Phil Chess, but he is barely mentioned in the movie) and the blues musicians, such as Muddy Waters, Howling Wolf, and Chuck Berry, he worked with at his Chess Records label. Well, my summer job as a research assistant will be covering a topic that includes the Chess Brothers. This summer, I will be researching on

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-59231331590862643062010-06-29T13:06:00.001-04:002010-06-29T13:06:00.623-04:00

Here is my recap of Sunday's performances:1) Galaxy of Tar: Oops, I came too late and missed their performance, but I bought theird CD for a $1 (great bargain), maybe I'll review it later.Find more videos like this on AFRO-PUNK2) Bad Rabbits: Did I mention I love these guys and I made it time to see them! Woohoo! Let me tell you that Dua can SANG, not sing, but SANG!!!!! Just as The 54, why

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-62655913659644185482010-06-28T14:05:00.006-04:002010-06-28T18:19:26.736-04:00

Last weekend, I attended Afropunk for the first time and all I have to say is .....DAMN!!!!!! Ok, I actually have more to say than that, but it was so amazing that this is my initial reaction. I regret forgetting to bring my camera, because there were so many camera worthy moments (oh well, there is youtube and other people who took pictures, haha). Besides the death-defying stunts of the

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-13403539958573347572010-06-27T10:12:00.002-04:002010-06-27T10:47:58.087-04:00

From Vimeo:Historians say that the Kaffirs (this is what they call themselves) of Sri Lanka started arriving from the eastern shores of Africa in the 1500s with the Portuguese, and later in more waves with the different colonizers of Sri Lanka.'Kaffir culture' is a video portrait of one such community of Kaffirs and the struggle to keep their culture (especially the music and language) alive in

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-88368233096072529822010-06-26T17:58:00.000-04:002010-06-26T17:58:00.482-04:00

"Listen Up!" Young Women's Voices in Hip-Hop - A Summer Arts Program in DCPLEASE DONATE!!!ABOUT THIS PROJECTAbout "Listen Up!" The young woman's voice in Hip-HopThis summer, we will create original hip-hop theatre driven by the interests of the young women and girls in the program. Our work will take place inside a supportive and nurturing environment that challenges them to become

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-81936723881774443812010-06-26T13:53:00.000-04:002010-06-26T13:53:00.319-04:00

Charles Mingus, Jr. was an American Jazz musician, composer, bandleader and social activist. Not only was he a virtuosic double bass player, he was a great pianist, cellist, and trombone player. His influence, besides Jazz, was Gospel music that he heard in church. In his early career, Mingus performed with Louis Armstrong, Kid Ory and Lionel Hampton, and later on, he collaborated with Charlie

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-16885582122211134662010-06-25T14:03:00.003-04:002010-06-25T14:18:36.402-04:00

It has been a year since Michael Jackson left us and it still feels surreal. I still cannot believe he is gone and I still "can never say goodbye." Watching Michael Jackson: Our Icon on Centric and the number of other tributes going on today reminded that whatever personal problems Michael had as a human, he still showed love for humanity and even, in relation to Black Music Month, his blackness

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-18951139483644528992010-06-25T10:26:00.003-04:002010-06-25T10:26:00.388-04:00

Via The Marriage of a Dead Blog SING!Me: To all the people who think Hip Hop is not a legitimate art form, not a part of history or treat Hip Hop like it is a monolithic entity (side-eyes Thomas Chatterton Williams), here is your response:A friend of mine, who is a fellow music junkie, occasionally gives me heads up on weird shit he finds he thinks I might like to sample. He told me about this

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-71902627965750728732010-06-24T10:08:00.001-04:002010-06-24T10:08:00.378-04:00

Via Black Voices: Amanda Diva's show, "The Spark"Here are episodes 12 and 13, which are in tribute to Black music Month:The Power of Black Music to Unite for Different IssuesNneka InterviewAlternative Black MusicJay Electronica

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-40808175100099181612010-06-23T14:36:00.000-04:002010-06-23T14:36:00.668-04:00

Via Soul Sessions at Centric TVIf you thought you knew YahZarah (née Dana Williams), think again. The Foreign Exchange singer is out to introduce her true self to the world with the her newest album The Ballad of Purple St. James.The Ballad of Purple St. James available NOWSoul Sessions//YahZarah St. James from Centric TV on Vimeo.

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-78749388821422660942010-06-22T10:55:00.003-04:002010-06-22T10:55:00.685-04:00

And no I am not talking about the actress...This Betty Davis preceded acts like Prince, Grace Jones, Madonna, Erykah Badu, Kelis, Rhianna, and Lady Gaga, but few know about her. Influenced by Jimi Hendrix and Sly and the Family Stone, this funk, rock and soul singer was definitely ahead of her time because of her open sexual attitude, so much so, that the music industry did not know what to do

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-49959073414399408622010-06-21T10:33:00.000-04:002010-06-21T10:33:00.327-04:00

On June 16, 2010, we lost another great musician. Garry Shider, the guitarist for the band, Parliament Funkadelic, passed away at the age of 56 from cancer. Besides his guitar skills, Shider was know for his outrageous outfits, such as wearing a diaper on stage ("The Diaper Man" was his nickname). Shider was sick for a while, suffering from both lung cancer and brain cancer, and just last week

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-8241324632800532852010-06-20T13:57:00.003-04:002010-06-20T13:57:00.180-04:00

Continued from yesterday's post:Public Enemy-Don't Believe The HypeEric B. & Rakim - Don't Sweat The TechniqueTupac - All Eyez On MeFunkadelic - Lunchmeataphobia (Think! It Ain't Illegal Yet!)Public Enemy-Miuzi Weighs A TonJerry Butler & Brenda Lee Eager - Ain't Understanding MellowCee Lo Green - I Am Selling SoulTalib Kweli & Hi Tek - Love LanguagePete Rock & C. L. Smooth - They Reminisce Over

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-38290022793803668522010-06-19T13:09:00.003-04:002010-06-19T13:09:00.154-04:00

Continued from yesterday's post:Lauryn Hill - The Miseducation of Lauryn HillMaze and Frankie Beverly - We Are OneMusiq Soulchild - Teach MeEd O.G. & Da Bulldogs - Be A Father To Your ChildBobby Womack - Across 110th StreetEric B & Rakim- Paid In FullAnthony Hamilton - The TruthCommon - Love IsNINA SIMONE- DON'T LET ME BE MISUNDERSTOODParliament Funkadelic - Aqua BoogieOleta Adams - Rhythm Of

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-229862768246326082010-06-18T16:19:00.003-04:002010-06-18T16:19:00.229-04:00

Two days ago, I was reading Jacqueline Rhinehart's "My Organic Soul," which is a compilation of quotations, lyrics, poems and other words of wisdom from a wide range of people all over the world. Jacqueline Rhinehart is the CEO of Organic Soul Marketing, a marketing consulting company started in 1999 that works with large companies on multicultural niche markets. She has also worked for over two

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-8780478884595453402010-06-17T09:54:00.002-04:002010-06-17T17:09:22.224-04:00

Today, when many people think of music artists from Barbados, only one person comes to mind: Rihanna. Well, I am not extremely fond of her and since my mom is from Barbados, I feel slightly irritated that she is the representative for the island. So, I would like to present some other Bajan artists who, I believe, are a hundred times better than her. (P.S. I have a crush on these next two guys,

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-30560459272565287562010-06-16T12:54:00.005-04:002010-06-16T13:16:34.741-04:00

Happy Birthday Tupac!When Tupac died, I was only six years old, so I was too young to listen to and understand who he was. The first song that introduced me to him was "Thugz Mansion" with Nas in 2002. So, I was lucky enough to be introduced to the sensitive and angelic side before I even knew about some of his problems with violence and other demons. Tupac, to me, was and still is the

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-62129149891098864392010-06-15T08:44:00.003-04:002010-06-15T09:45:40.140-04:00

Epiphany House, which is hosted by Epiphany Castro, is, according to her, "a place to come and share and exchange and enjoy the very best in spoken word and music. Each week I bring to you very special folks to step up to the mic and give you a peek inside their world." Epiphany is a musician and spoken-word artist; she has her own album, called Sunflower, is a senate member with Poetry over

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-60631741160922602412010-06-14T09:59:00.003-04:002010-06-14T10:48:10.122-04:00

Yesterday, on TV One, I watched the two-documentary on Wattstax, and so today's topic will be on this legendary concert. Known as the black Woodstock, the Wattstax music festival took place on August 20, 1972 at the Los Angeles Coliseum. The concert was organized by the Memphis record label, Stax Records, and was conceived to commemorate the seventh anniversary of the Watts riots in L.A. With $1

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-63026270149538593122010-06-13T10:43:00.000-04:002010-06-13T10:43:00.507-04:00

I saw this over at Kiss My Black Ads. Adam Grabowski created the video and I thought it was a cool tribute to the Soul artists of the 60s and 70s.A Brief History of Soul Music from Adam Grabowski on Vimeo.This is where you can see more of Adam's work: http://vimeo.com/10441591

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-40953625247689892862010-06-12T07:02:00.000-04:002010-06-12T07:02:00.241-04:00

Via New Black Man (Mark Anthony Neal) > click on title to go to original post for more info.Black Music Month 2010Rhythm and Protest: Motown’s Forgotten Revolutionby Mark Anthony NealWhen Berry Gordy founded Motown Records 50 years ago, it was little more than an All-American hustle; Gordy was among the many who tapped into the burgeoning entertainment industries of the post-World War II period

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-71790504427862495892010-06-11T05:20:00.001-04:002010-06-11T05:20:00.815-04:00

Who has Lauryn Hill's consciousness, Tracy Chapman's guitar skills mixed with a little bit of Nneka's Nigerian soul? Have no clue? I'll give you a hint; her name is Asa. Born Bukola Elemide (her nickname Asa means “little hawk) in 1982, the Paris-born, Nigerian (Lagos) artist grew up around music because of her father and listened to a wide range of artists like Fela Kuti, Sunny Ade, Bob Marley,

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-73951817595622018772010-06-08T15:10:00.001-04:002010-06-10T17:17:17.875-04:00

Black Rock MusicView more presentations from Reese.Many people know that the African-American Blues musicians had a major influence on Rock and Roll. However, few know that some of the first Rock and Roll stars were African-American, too. Musicians, like Big Joe Turner ("Shake,Rattle and Roll," which was later covered by Bill Haley and the Comets), Fats Domino (Song "I'm Walking" was covered by

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-87497443528082927712010-06-07T17:25:00.003-04:002010-06-07T22:51:04.135-04:00

Today is another sad day in music; Marvin Isley (first from the right in the picture), the bassist for the Isley Brothers' spinoff 3+3 and younger brother of the three main Isleys, died at the age of 56 in Chicago. Before forming for the 3+3 album, Isley formed his own group with older brother Ernie and brother-in-law, Chris Jasper. In the 1970s, Marvin was known for his strong bass lines in

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-7850997339872497132010-06-03T22:18:00.002-04:002010-06-03T22:27:46.973-04:00

Via Neo Griot:VIDEO: Black Music in America - ca. mid-1970'sweirdovideos — January 19, 2008 — This tremendous educational documentary from the mid-1970's examines the priceless contributions of African-Americans to musical heritage, so closely tied to their unique history in the United States. From Africa upon slave ships captive immigrants brought with them melodies, cadences and rhythms that

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-69935968419319446002010-06-02T14:10:00.004-04:002010-06-02T17:01:57.360-04:00

Today, I woke up in a Caribbean mood, so I want to share with you all some of my favorite artists and some of my favorite songs from them:1) Morgan HeritageDon't Haffi DreadDown By the RiverRaid Rootz Dance2) Tarrus Riley She's RoyalBewareStay With You (John Legend Cover)Love's Contagious3) Richie SpiceBrown SkinYouths Dem ColdEarth A Run RedRichie Spice - earth a run redgive thanks 4 life...love

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-33275901711980366512010-06-01T11:25:00.008-04:002010-06-01T16:53:34.896-04:00

What's up everyone?! I am BACK!!!! I have decided to make my first post after my long and tedious semester on the first day of Black Music Month. I will try to post something everyday for the month of June on Black Music.Today's topic is black women who were big band leaders and jazz musicians. Often, these ladies are not remembered in Jazz history because of racism and sexism. Women vocalists

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-70635989966250205722010-02-23T20:57:00.005-05:002010-02-23T21:42:49.915-05:00

Mark Anthony Neal is a professor of Black Popular Culture in the African American studies department at Duke University. He has authored four books, What the Music Said: Black Popular Music and Black Public Culture (1998), Soul Babies: Black Popular Culture and the Post-Soul Aesthetic (2002), Songs in the Keys of Black Life: A Rhythm and Blues Nation (2003) and New Black Man: Rethinking Black

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-59198699839168857662010-02-15T11:53:00.007-05:002010-02-18T21:10:32.937-05:00

After We Are the World 25, I need to purge, here is some good music to help.1) VV Brown - Shark in the Water Her voice, the melody, the guitar riff (lyrics kinda corny, but oh well)! She seems like someone who has been transported from the early 60s Soul era and brought to today! Also, she is from the UK! What is it about UK exports that I love so much (Adele, The Noisettes, Amy Winehouse, The

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-40002609564744777352010-02-06T18:06:00.010-05:002010-02-10T17:06:32.211-05:00

I have not done this in a while, but there have been some videos I have been wanting to put here. So here I go:1) JLS - Everybody in LoveDespite all his bluntness, Simon Cowell knows how to pick them. These guys are gorgeous in looks and voices; plus this is such a feel good song that will warm you up during the winter! Happy early Valentine's Day!!2) Gavin - Good as Gold She sounds like a "

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-41804857983216258262010-02-06T17:27:00.004-05:002010-02-06T18:30:55.576-05:00

Mr. Robert Nesta Marley!!!! One of my favorite artists of all time who helped to spread Reggae to the rest of the world and also spread love and revolutionary thought. Although he was sadly taken away from us at the young age of 35, his life and music still live on, especially through his children.Happy Birthday Bob!!!!!Here are some of my favorite songs from him:Buffalo SoldierNatural

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-1155373378731898182010-01-22T13:45:00.002-05:002010-01-22T14:17:00.965-05:00

Today is Sam Cooke's Birthday! He would have been 79 years old today and would have probably been a bigger legend than he is now. He was a singer, a songwriter, record label CEO, publishing company owner, entrepreneur, Civil Rights defender (refused o play at segregated shows), one of the first black performers at the Copacabana and one of the few black men of that time to be involved in the

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-81481528242664452692010-01-16T17:00:00.003-05:002010-01-16T19:24:36.135-05:00

Happy Birthday Aaliyah! In memory of one of the most talented singers that was in R&B, I will play some of of my favorite songs from her. If Aaliyah was still alive today, I feel that she would have been just as big or even better than most of these girls out here right now, in both music and film. So, here is to what could have been. Enjoy and let us celebrate her life today! We Miss You!If Your

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-38462038564004445002010-01-14T10:11:00.004-05:002010-01-14T10:54:32.746-05:00

Last night at 9:59 p.m., one of the greatest Soul legends of all time and one of the men probably responsible for the conception of thousands, Teddy Pendegrass, died at the age of 59. Starting his career as a drummer for The Cadillacs, Teddy eventually became the lead singer of Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes (which formed from The Cadillacs) and had as string of hits, including "Wake Up

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-82110792448489027202010-01-13T18:14:00.006-05:002010-01-13T18:38:48.717-05:00

Tonight on PBS, Passing Strange, the 2008 Tony Award-winning musical, will be making its broadcast debut tonight at 9 p.m. (or on Friday at 2 a.m.). The film was directed by Spike Lee and according to PBS, "Passing Strange is the semi-autobiographical story of a young black man who leaves behind his middle-class, church-ruled upbringing in mid-1970s Los Angeles to travel to Europe in search of

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-28083694090412971822010-01-11T19:19:00.005-05:002010-01-11T22:06:27.033-05:00

Hey guys! After a long period of absence (I blame school and finals), I am back! To start of the new year, I will give you a preview of the long awaited documentary about Sam Cooke, Crossing Over, which will be premiering tonight on PBS at 9 p.m. (or Wednesday at 3:30 a.m.). It has been over 45 years since Sam Cooke was fatally shit, but he still lives on as one of the founders of Soul music and

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-27788999010025898252009-11-09T19:22:00.003-05:002009-11-09T20:33:16.319-05:00

I am back after quite a break (not really a break, school is killing me!). Anyways, here are a few new songs to hold you over till next post.1) Raheem Devaughn feat. Ludaris- BulletproofDang, Raheem! I liked you when you came with your romantic, and sometimes corny (just listen to "Customer"), love songs, but now you have me asking the question, "Why so serious?" Just joking, I know why, but I

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-54706013482651347582009-10-18T12:50:00.000-04:002009-10-18T12:50:57.997-04:00

Since a friend of mine asked me to put this on here, I will! I love this song (great bass, guitar and vocals) and video (mainly because Caleb looks insanely hot and his screams are amazing!), so here is "Charmer" by Kings of Leon. (FYI: I officially have all four CDs of Kings of Leon now! Woohoo!)

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-83971962518799109212009-10-18T10:56:00.009-04:002009-10-18T12:52:39.779-04:00

I know you have not seen this in a while, but it is back today with some "feel good" music! Michael Franti & Spearhead: Say HeyI love songs that make me smile and this is definitely one of them. Every time I listen to this song, it reminds me of "Don't Worry, Be Happy" by Bobby Mcferrin.Michael Buble - Haven't Met You YetSpeaking of songs that make me smile, Michael Buble proves once again how

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-14396328075361875752009-09-27T13:13:00.002-04:002009-09-27T13:16:54.831-04:00

Alpha Cat and Lisa Lavie - Run This Town Spoof (Which Dumb Dance We Doing Tonight?)I love these two and I kind of like this better than the original!

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-53120792148394820892009-09-15T19:45:00.004-04:002009-09-15T20:23:40.347-04:00

Yesterday, Patrick Swayze succumbed to his battle with pancreatic cancer. As a tribute to his life and career, I will post songs that were included in his movies and have become classics. Thanks to his movies like Ghost and Dirty Dancing, I fell in love with all of these "oldies but goodies" songs. Plus, he was a great dancer! RIP Patrick!Patrick Swayze - She's Like the Wind (Dirty Dancing)Bill

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-3777928799086914702009-08-31T09:15:00.007-04:002009-09-15T08:26:45.312-04:00

Paramore -IgnoranceI thought I loved their first album, until I heard this song! The song and the video sound and look are more raw and in a good way, too. (P.S. I know I used too many "ands." Ha. But that's how excited I am!)Selena Gomez and The Scene - Falling DownWhy do I like this song? I cannot stand the chorus, I do not love Selena as a singer and she sings "You" strangely. However, the

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-28276193575448321272009-08-30T17:20:00.000-04:002009-08-30T20:17:03.391-04:00

After attending the Van Duzer Summer Streets Fair, I have a whole new view on Staten Island. I attended the fair last Saturday, and after it was done, I was wishing I attended the last three Saturdays of the fair. Just think of it as the Staten Island version of Greenwich Village in Manhattan; a place where artists and bohemians of all kinds meet together. Music, dancing, art, fashion and it was

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-49104961432586401022009-08-24T10:21:00.004-04:002009-08-24T10:37:33.095-04:00

Need a laugh? Here are some funny songs to sing along with...Jason Lewis (Wiley, JME, Frisco) - Too Many Weave (Too Many Men parody)Alphacat - Best I Ever Had Spoof (Drake)Alphacat - She Wolf Spoof (Shakira)

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-67743250928620213922009-08-20T11:31:00.009-04:002009-08-21T08:16:56.768-04:00

Time again for some new music, and with a few returnees! Woohoo!Fefe Dobson - I Want You/Watch Me MoveFefe's Back! I love these songs and I can't stop listening to them! "I Want You" is reminiscent of The Ramones, simple but rocking! "Watch Me Move" is simply hot and she looks like Mick Jagger while dancing!Jay-Z, Kanye West and Rihanna - Run This TownTo put it simply, I am glad Kanye is rapping

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-56279603569270674312009-08-19T11:45:00.001-04:002009-08-19T17:37:54.812-04:00

On this feature, I will be ranting and raving on specific events in music that happened "in my life!" Ok, let's get started...I promised myself...I promised myself that I would not go to another one of these Today show summer concerts with the crazy fan girls, aching feet, the all-nighter, rain and being too far back to see anything, but guess where I was again...Three fridays ago, I was right

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-48318455313562881492009-08-15T15:41:00.003-04:002009-08-15T16:30:18.719-04:00

In honor of the 40th anniversary of Woodstock, here is a little taste of it with some songs and videos from the three days of great music in upstate New York! However being in the crowd was not all lovely-dovey -- from the stench of human waste and body odor, little if edible food, the mud, the rain, the disorganization, and some of the people extremely high on drugs to other nightmarish parts of

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-46718297689155505152009-08-11T10:25:00.000-04:002009-08-11T10:25:00.412-04:00

This feature will cover science-related articles and videos about music!Remember Bobby McFerrin? The guy who had the famous hit, "Don't Worry, Be Happy." Well, he is a conductor and participates in many music education programs, such as volunteering to teach music and lecture across the country. In the World Science Festival, he showed the audience how most of us do have an innate musical ability

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-76427084089634424142009-08-08T15:53:00.007-04:002009-08-10T12:10:11.556-04:00

Truckload of new music on its way to you now....Maxwell - Bad HabitsTalk about hot in here! Maxwell knows how to make anything sound so romantic and sexy! Also, the video with Kerry Washington is classy and naughty at the same time! Go, Maxwell!Brendon Urie, Cee-lo, Janelle Monae, Patrick Stump, Travis McCoy - Open HappinessThe song and the video put a smile on my face! The plus is that everyone

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-80719190160489708642009-08-08T08:22:00.002-04:002009-08-08T08:27:30.841-04:00

Jess Origliasso from The Veronicas said this:“Never forget to question everything. There is more to music then what Record Companies force feed you! Discover old music and new music."I agree with her completely! Why do you think I created this blog and I have said it so many times on this blog! We should not just take what music is given to us because half of it is not even that good in the

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-90404464601897903172009-08-07T11:11:00.004-04:002009-08-07T11:35:10.535-04:00

Playing for Change is a music documentary, record and multimedia movement that is trying to bring the world together and create peace through music. Started in 2004 by producer Mark Johnson and his Timeless Media Group, local musicians from all over the world performed and recorded covers of legendary songs. Then the music and film were combined to create beautiful masterpieces that will inspire

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-8590836679354603902009-08-03T15:29:00.004-04:002009-08-03T15:43:24.396-04:00

Along with Nick Cannon and Affion, Nas does a P.S.A. about the declining state of mainstream Hip-hop. I could not agree with him more...

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-92074278694255046612009-07-27T16:00:00.000-04:002009-07-27T16:05:59.301-04:00

Going back to some old posts. I found out that Kings of Leon also love this singer! Cool!Little Willie John (1937-1968)Ever heard the song "Fever." Well, many artists have recorded it over the years, from Peggy Lee to Beyonce. But, did you know that Little Willie John was the first person to record the now standard song (and he recorded the best version!) The 5'4" (yes, he was that short!) singer

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-44449568727159846832009-07-23T19:15:00.005-04:002009-07-23T19:23:10.873-04:00

With so much wrong that is going on in the world, it is nice to have songs with important messages for the world today. Remember we are all human and we all live in this world, so we need to show compassion towards one another. So my newest feature will be "One Love" videos to help us to think about what is going on around the world. To start it off, this is an animated video made by a 12-

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-27419523005446371432009-07-21T09:55:00.007-04:002009-07-22T11:33:15.594-04:00

What is McDonaldization? Developed by the sociologist George Ritzer, it is the theory that the American society and subsequently the rest of the world are taking on the characteristics of the fast-food restaurant. The four processes of efficiency, calculability, predictability (standardization) and control through technology, that McDonalds uses to create its food actually has harmful and

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-68490200972003773512009-07-20T18:49:00.007-04:002009-07-21T10:29:48.164-04:00

Take some steps towards your computer, click play and listen to some new music!1) All American Rejects - I WannaI like AAR, but what possessed them to record let alone release it as a single. The song is incredibly cheezy, both the lyrics and the music. They sound like a really corny boy band! "I Wanna" definitely will not be one of their hits, no matter how much they want it to.Official Video:

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-52696757450370379222009-07-16T08:09:00.010-04:002009-07-16T13:00:52.883-04:00

Another reason why I love Old School Hip-Hop is the abundance of strong female rappers. In the late 80s to mid 90s, there was Salt & Pepa, Sha-rock, Queen Latifah, Monie Love, MC Lyte, Yo-yo, Da Brat, Lauryn Hill, the early Missy Elliot, the early Eve and the list goes on. What was different about these ladies and some of the female rappers out here today who seem to come and go. Well, first,

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-37294470398704465422009-07-15T12:36:00.011-04:002009-07-15T16:32:22.599-04:00

Yesterday, I was flipping through channels and stumbled upon a new show on BET. Now, I generally do not watch BET at all (mainly because it is not a channel that supports the Black community with its shows), so when I came upon the show it was the last episode. Produced in Atlanta by Peachtree TV, Welcome to Dreamland was a six-episode series that followed two music producers, Drummer Boy and

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-69023669897847597432009-07-13T18:54:00.001-04:002009-07-13T18:56:23.911-04:00

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-41842505819508467922009-07-06T08:01:00.007-04:002009-07-15T13:30:41.459-04:00

Needing something new to listen to...Here you go!1) Amerie - Why R UAmerie has always been one of my favorite singers. However, the beat for this song is the best part of the song. Including the chorus, there are too many awkward parts in the song that do not fit well together (the hook is the best). But I still love her as a singer, especially with her older songs.2) Letoya Luckett - Not

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-27079739819440409742009-07-04T10:09:00.005-04:002009-07-04T11:53:41.708-04:00

What's Up! First, I am changing the name of the news feature, which is now called "What's Going On." Second, here are some bad and good news for today:Another magazine casualty due to the internet. The Hip-hop/R&B magazine, Vibe, has decided to go out of business. Created in 1992 by Quincy Jones and Time Warner, the magazine was at the top for providing a circulation that catered to the Hip-hop

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-1158740051073068422009-07-01T09:35:00.022-04:002009-07-06T08:34:22.913-04:00

Ah, the infamous "n-word" or to put it more bluntly, "nigger" and our culture's mitigated counterpart "niggah." The word has become widespread within the Hip-hop and R&B community and throughout the Black culture. Not only that, many people within the Black community and even outside our community, make excuses for the word "niggah" because it a "term of endearment" and it has the "ah" ending

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-9386762111009747472009-06-29T09:35:00.005-04:002010-02-06T19:25:11.583-05:00

Here is a few new songs...Take it, it's a gift!1) Jay-z - D.O.A. (Death of the Autotune)Finally, someone said it! As Hov himself says in the song, bring back real music and real rap. I'm tired of all these artists using autotune to pretend as if they can sing. For some people it works, such as T-pain (because he can really sing!), but that does not mean that every single artist needs to use it,

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-74592698621457579712009-06-27T10:54:00.003-04:002009-06-27T11:11:37.346-04:00

I just felt as if I should reflect on his life as an artist and a person...As an artist and entertainer, Michael Jackson was on the top and no one can top him. In his lifetime, he sold over 750 million records, had dozens of hits and has influenced almost every single artist who came after him from Beyonce to Fall Out Boy. Yes, I thought he was weird, but most geniuses are eccentric. Yes, I

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-12034173569625116812009-06-25T18:41:00.004-04:002009-06-26T09:11:02.580-04:00

I have some sad news to announce...The King of Pop himself, Michael Jackson, unexpectedly died today at the age of 50. Let's us remember him for all the beautiful music that he brought to us. He was a true artist. As a tribute for the legend, here is a list of some of his best songs. R.I.P. Michael.Jackson 5 - ABCI'll Be ThereBenI Want You BackWho's Loving YouCan You Feel ItDancing MachineMJ -

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-38374926906322265942009-06-22T08:55:00.008-04:002009-06-22T09:56:25.526-04:00

Since both mother's day and father's day have passed, it is time to celebrate the family and what is a better way to celebrate but with family groups and bands! There is no bond like a family bond, especially in music. Enjoy!Sister Sledge - We are FamilyPointer Sisters - I'm So ExcitedJackson 5 - ABC/I Want You BackShangri-Las - Leader of the Pack (originally two sets of sisters)K-ci & JoJo - All

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-70731558086786731382009-06-20T08:09:00.003-04:002009-06-20T08:52:14.656-04:00

In honor of the rainy weather that we have been having in June in New York City, this C.R.S.A. edition will feature "I Can't Stand the Rain."I Can't Stand the RainWritten and first recorded by Ann Peebles in 1973, it became her biggest hit reaching #6 on R&B charts and #38 on Pop charts. Since then, the sing has been covered by several artists, including a disco version by the group Eruption in

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-87907959648684173512009-06-19T10:00:00.001-04:002009-08-24T10:38:19.948-04:00

Here are some videos to sing and laugh along to....Joe Jonas - Single Ladies DanceHilarious but weird at the same time. But Joe looks hot in heels!Richard Cheese - Baby Got BackHe made "Baby Got Back" sound sophisticated!Patrick Stump - I Wanna Be Your LoverNot because he is funny, but because he is so adorable!Stewey - May None of Them Be Missed (Banned Family Guy Clip)It is the perfect cartoon

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-39713387649945441572009-06-18T10:50:00.007-04:002009-06-19T11:44:44.382-04:00

Breathe in, breathe out, count to ten and listen to some new music!1) Beyonce - EgoBeyonce should just change her name to Sasha Fierce. So far, I have liked the Sasha Fierce character better than Beyonce herself. First "Single Ladies," then "Diva," and now "Ego." Thank you Beyonce for giving the word "ego" a good name because there is nothing wrong with having a little confidence. On the other

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-2870528720477934932009-06-17T17:00:00.003-04:002009-06-17T18:24:28.484-04:00

This is a new feature discussing how nothing is ever really something new and original, but a repacking of something else and how old things become new again!In our digital age filled with MP3s, MP3 players and downloading music (whether legal or illegal ;) ), one would not expect the 33 1/3s and 45s from your parents and grandparents era to be in style again. But interest for these old vinyl

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-49120575359774327752009-06-16T21:15:00.000-04:002009-06-16T10:20:13.289-04:00

Artist: (n) one skilled or versed in learned arts; one who professes and practices an imaginativeart, a person skilled in one of the fine arts.To Entertain: (v) to keep, hold, or maintain in the mind.Entertainment: (n) amusement or diversion provided especially by performers; something diverting or engaging.When you look at Christina Aguilera, do you think of an artist? Now look at Bob Dylan,

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-2948365438538163352009-06-09T10:41:00.002-04:002009-06-09T11:46:04.803-04:00

On the TownDuring the past two weeks, PBS and Turner Classic Movies have shown On the Town,so I decided to put it on here. It is one of my favorite musicals because it is about my city, New York, and has two of my favorite actors/dancers/singers, Gene Kelly and Frank Sinatra.The 1949 MGM movie musical was an adaptation of the 1944 Broadway stage musical. "On the Town" included music from Leonard

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-42694801869246292812009-06-08T08:22:00.007-04:002009-06-08T11:33:41.822-04:00

Delivering a truckload of new music to you:1) The Fray - Never Say NeverAgain, why do musicians keep releasing a weak first single. After I heard "You Found Me," I thought it was okay, but I felt it was sentimental just to be sentimental. It did not have the same strong feeling as "How to Save a Life." Now the Fray has released "Never Say Never," and the song is both meaningful and powerful, the

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-28203725909183137782009-06-05T15:13:00.002-04:002009-06-05T15:18:09.550-04:00

Demi Lovato said something quite profound and courageous today:“This business is so corrupt with a bunch of puppets being told what to do. I’m gonna be me. Love me or hate me, I don’t care.”So true! Go, girl!

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-86645838426572885672009-06-04T11:34:00.003-04:002009-06-04T12:13:13.067-04:00

Grandma's Hands by Bill WithersBill Withers recorded "Grandma's Hands" in 1971 about his own grandmother who recently died. It appeared on his debut album, Just As I Am, peaked at 42 on the Billboard charts. Since then, the song has been covered by several artists, such as Al Jarreau, Barbara Streisand, Simply Red, Livingston Taylor, The Staple Singers, Gladys Knight, Will Downing, Jeff Lorber,

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-64999086644476966492009-06-03T15:00:00.000-04:002009-06-03T15:50:38.351-04:00

I know it's been awhile, but here are some artists that you may not have heard about:1) Jonny LangThe blues prodigy himself was born in Fargo, North Dakota. As one would infer, there were not many blues singers or bands in Fargo. However, at the age of twelve, Lang (real name: Jon Gordon Langseth, Jr.) began learning to play the guitar and his father took him to see the Bad Medicine Blues Band.

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-24715006261118402222009-06-02T11:33:00.005-04:002009-06-02T12:38:20.495-04:00

New music coming your way! Watch out:1) Kelly Clarkson- I Do Not Hook UpWhat is it about Kelly Clarkson's songs that make me hate them in the beginning and then a few weeks later, love them. "I Do Not Hook Up" is a fun, rocking song and it has a good message: girls, do not be easy and lower your standards for any guy because you are better than that. The video is actually funny, mainly because

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-14104119552525236562009-05-27T09:20:00.008-04:002009-05-27T12:35:03.401-04:00

Doris Troy (January 6, 1937 - February 16, 2004)"Mama Soul" may have been a one-hit wonder, but Doris Troy was a great one and recorded several other songs that should have been soul classics. Born Doris Higginson in the Bronx, she was the daughter of a minister and performed in his church's choir. Fortunately, the legendary James Brown discovered her. Doris began singing back-up for Cissy

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-77242157230706027142009-05-26T11:57:00.005-04:002009-05-26T13:10:23.307-04:00

"Purple Rain" is not only one of my favorite Prince song, but also one of my favorite songs of all time. However, I have always wondered what the song's title meant. When I thought about it literally, it would be completely weird to see purple rain. I would think that I was high or on an LSD trip. Figuratively, the title has various meanings. According to Prince.org, Prince was asked about what

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-57823384747867984822009-05-25T13:15:00.003-04:002009-05-25T13:33:03.212-04:00

One of my favorite songs of all time! Everything on this song from Stevie's vocals to the background vocals to the horn section to using mail to create a love song is just perfect. This song is so great that even President Obama danced to it at his inauguration. Stevie Wonder is a musical genius!The soul song was released on Motown's Tamla label in 1970. It spent six weeks on top of the R&B

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-60539567535302929152009-05-23T08:09:00.004-04:002009-05-23T08:52:11.628-04:00

"The Twist""The Twist" is a twelve-bar blues song that was first recorded by Hank Ballard and the Midnighters, an R&B group, in 1959. It was the B-side to the group's song "Teardrops On Your Letter." Although Hank thought it would be his hit, it received little airplay and was only a hit amongst R&B fans. In 1960, Parkway recording artist, Chubby Checker, recorded a cover of the song. His cover

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-39977369700186943182009-05-22T12:30:00.008-04:002009-05-22T16:58:31.833-04:00

Thirteen dollars on ITunes of new songs, just for you all:1) Melanie Fiona - Give it to Me RightSampling the Zombies' song "Time of the Season," the bass and beat of the music accentuates her sultry voice. It is incredibly sexy and I am betting no man would say no to her after hearing this.2) The Airborne Toxic Event- Sometime Around MidnightThe violin intro and the acoustic arrangement are

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-4653671553726642842009-05-21T14:57:00.003-04:002009-05-21T16:20:49.553-04:00

This season's American Idol goes to underdogs! Who would have thought that Kris Allen would have won when the show began. About six of the other contestants, Adam, Allison, Danny, Lil Rounds, Matt and Anoop, were ahead of him in terms of who would get the top spot. Kris was a shy guy with very little confidence in his own performing at the beginning of the show. Gradually, we saw him break out of

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-71606283829445475352009-05-08T09:01:00.003-04:002009-05-08T10:22:34.212-04:00

Ghetto Superstar (That is What You Are) appeared on Pras Michel's debut album, Ghetto Superstar, and on the Bulworth (starring one of my favorite actors, Warren Beatty) soundtrack. The chorus is a reworking of "Islands in the Stream" and it samples the song "Get Up, Get Into It, Get Involved" by James Brown. (Check the Covers, Samples, Reworks and Answer Songs later). Wyclef Jean helped in

Reese.Very. Frank.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13535066255544356688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5441171241317201095.post-46012162882619672492009-05-06T16:45:00.004-04:002009-05-08T10:23:36.371-04:00

GuantanameraThe title translates into "the girl from Guantanamo" and is the most famous song from Cuba. Originally, the lyrics were about a woman from Guantanamo, who the writer of the song, Joseito Fernandez (some say that Herminio "El Diablo" García co-wrote it), was romantically interested in. Joseito Fernandez regularly promoted the song on his radio broadcasts. However, the original lyrics

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