I know it's been awhile, but here are some artists that you may not have heard about:
1) Jonny Lang
The 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. Soon after, Jon was taking guitar lessons with the band's guitar player, Ted Larson. Not long after, he joined the band, which was renamed Kid Jonny Lang & The Big Bang. At 15, he independently released his first record, Smokin', and later signed to A&M records. On the label, he released Lie to Me (1997), the Grammy-nominated Wander This World (1998), Long Time Coming (2003) and the Grammy-winning, gospel-influenced Turn Around (2006). His guitar solos and unique bluesy voice has garnered him much attention and he has been able to tour with the Rolling Stones, Aerosmith, Buddy Guy, B.B. King, Blues Traveller, Jeff Beck and Sting. Recently, he collaborated with the Jonas Brothers on their song "Hey Baby." (I know I had to mention it.)
Lie to Me
634-5789 w/ Eddie Floyd and Wilson Pickett
Red Light
Official Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7SMr86leGzY
If We Try
Get What You Give
Give Me Up Again
2) Janelle Monae
The Kansas native originally wanted to pursue a career on Broadway, but fortunately changed her mind because of her belief that music could change the world. After moving to Atlanta, she met Big Boi from Outkast and formed the Wondaland Arts Society. She made two appearances on Outkast's Idlewild, which were the songs "Call the Law" and "In Your Dreams." Monae was set to released her concept album, Metropolis in 2007, but signing with P.Diddy's Bad Boy Record sort of changed her plants to make it into a movie. Still, she received a Grammy-nomination for her song "Many Moons" and is touring with No Doubt. What makes Janelle Monae special is her special mix of R&B, Soul, Funk, Rock and even Tin Pan Alley music (listen to "Cindi"). Janelle is set to release her upcoming albums, Metropolis, Suites II & III, sometime this year.
Many Moons
Metropolis
You
Cloud 9
My Favorite Nothing
Cindi
3) Amanda Diva
When Hip-hop fans think of a female rapper, Lil' Kim and Rah Digga usually come to mind. But this rapper is bringing back the style of the old school female rappers like Lauryn Hill, Queen Latifah and Yo-yo. After attending SUNY-Purchase for theatre, Amanda Seales started writing her own spoken word book when a friend suggested it. In 2002, she appeared on Def Poetry Jam reciting her poem "Hot Shit." In 2004, Diva released her mixtape, It's Bigger Than Hip Hop, Vol 1, got a gig on MTV2 and began hosting her own radio show on SIRIUS called Hip Hop Nation Show. Amanda has acomplished even more -- she joined the DJ Drama/Don Cannon/DJ Sense-helmed Aphilliates crew, published a book of poetry, got a degree in African-American studies at Columbia and replaced Natalie Stewart form Floetry. After, she released two albums, Life Experience and Love Experience.
40 Mc's ft. Q-tip
Rebels
Man Woman Boogie w/ Q-tip
Neon
Supa-woman
4) Phoenix
Phoenix is one of the hottest French bands out there right now, alongside Air and Daft Punk, mainly because of their combination of Rock, Funk, Punk and Electronic music. They started with Thomas Mars, Deck D'Arcy, Christian Mazzalai and Laurent Brancowitz in the affluent suburb of Versailles in the late 90s. Laurent Brancowitz joined the group after he was in the short-lived group Darlin' with Daft Punk duo, Thomas Bangalter and Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo. Starting as a backing band for the Air's remix song "Kelly Watch the Stars," they released thier first record, United (2000). Since then, Phoenix has recorded Alphebetical (2004), which pushed them into the mainstream, It's Never Been Like That (2006) and Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix (2009). "1901," their first single on Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix was released as a free download.
1901
Everything is Everything
Rally
Official Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cE4gc7Pdfys
Consolation Prizes
Official Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9xWBle5s9s
Long Distance Call
Official Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sKkkGjnt3-Q
5) Parachute
Have you heard the song "She is Love" on the Nivea commercial? Originally Sparky's Flaw, the Virginia indie band recently graduated from college and are now promoting their first album, Losing Sleep. They have toured with O.A.R., Switchfoot, Duffy, Matt Nathanson and Jon McLaughlin and will tour this summer with 3 Doors Down, Secondhand Serenade and The Script. "Under Control" will be their second single, which I heard on their demo a few months ago.
She is Love
Under Control
All That I Am
New Year
Back Again
Showing posts with label "Who's That..." Artists of the Day. Show all posts
Showing posts with label "Who's That..." Artists of the Day. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
"Who's That..." Artists of the Day
I know it has been a while, but it is time again for some artists you may not have heard of!
*The first two bands are proof of how great Britain (ha ha) is when it comes to music!*
1) The Kooks: The English Indie band formed at Brighton Institute of Modern Music in 2004. Luke Pritchard, the lead singer, did a college project with bassist Max Rafferty, which started the basis of the band. When lead guitarist, Hugh Harris, and drummer, Paul Garred, joined, the group was officially named after the song "Kooks" by David Bowie (from 1971 album Hunky Dorie). Later, they were signed to Virgin Records after releasing an EP. Inside In/ Inside Out was their first album released on the label and their song "Naive" kept their album in the top 20 UK charts for over half of 2006. Eventually the album went triple platinum. After winning Best New Act at the Q awards and Best UK and Ireland Act at MTV's Europe Music Awards, the group put out a second album, Konk, in 2008. Bassist Max Rafferty was soon replaced by Dan Logan after several absences from him. Their second album went to number 1 in the UK and number 2 in Ireland. The album's first single was "Always Where I Need to Be." Currently, the group consists of Luke Pritchard, Hugh Harris, Paul Garred and Peter Denton, who replaced Dan Logan.
Always Where I Need to Be
Ooh La La
Sway
She Moves In Her Own Way
Naive
2) The Zutons: Coming from Liverpool, the "hard to categorize" Zutons formed in 2001, taking their name from The Magic Band guitarist Bill Harkleroad, whose nickname was Zoot Horn (or "Zuton") Rollo. Originally a four piece band with Dave McCabe (lead singer), Boyan Chowdhury (lead guitarist), Sean Payne (drummer) and Russell Pritchard (bassist), Sean's girlfriend Abi Harding, who plays saxophone, joined the group on stage a few times. The group and the audience liked her so much that she became a full-time member as a vocalist and saxophonist. Although the band put out two records, Devil's Deal and Creepin' and Crawlin', they officially released their debut record in 2004, called Who Killed...... The Zutons?. It reached at number 13 on the UK charts, but a year later, it paked at number 9. Later, the labum was re-issued with the single "Don't Ever Think (Too Much), which reached number 15 on the charts. Their songs "Confusion" and "Pressure Point" were put in both UK and US commercials.
In 2006, their second album, Tired of Hanging Around, was released and reached number 2 on the UK charts. Both singles "Why Won't You Give Me Your Love" and "Valerie" peaked at number 9 on the charts. Several artists have covered the song "Valerie," including Amy Winehouse (her cover reached number 2). On July 13, 2007, the group announced that Boyan Chowdhury left the Zutons for "musical differences." Paul Molly replaced him and The Zutons released their third album in 2008, called You Can Do Anything. "Always Right Behind You" was the first single on the album. Unfortunately, the group was dropped from Sony/BMG during Christmas season of 2008 because of low album sales.
You Will You Won't
Don't Ever Think Too Much
Confusion
Valerie
Official Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PksBPk_8QQ4
Why Won't You Give Me Your Love
3) Band of Horses: Previously known as the Horses, they formed in 2004 in Seattle by Ben Bridwell (guitar and vocals) and Matt Brooke (guitar) after their former band, Carissa's Weird, disbanded. In February 2006, Joe Arnone joined the group and the same year, they released their album, Everything All the Time. Later that year, Brooke left the band to start a new band, the Grand Archives. Since then, the band relocated to South Carolina and consist of members Ben Bridwell, Creighton Barrett, Ryan Monroe, Tyler Ramsey, Bill Reynolds and Blake Mills. Their second album, Cease to Begin, was released in 2007 and called one of the best albums of the year by Paste Magazine. One of their songs, "Funeral," has been used in several car commercials, trailers, video games and shows. The group has been known for their Southern Rock tendencies and glimmering reverb.
The Funeral
Is There a Ghost
The Great Salt Lake
The General Specific
No One's Gonna Love You
4) Spree Wilson: From Tennesse, he calls himself "the new generation's Beat writer, Jack Kerouac-influenced...Hippie peace fighter" and a self-proclaimed nerd. His life was changed when he heard De La Soul's album, 3 Feet High and Rising. Wilson's father was a doo-wop singer in Memphis and he grew up listening to the Blues and Jazz as well as Hip-hop. Also, Spree was influenced by Rock groups, like Nirvana, Pink Floyd and Sonic Youth. These different musical influences had helped Spree Wilson to develop his unique style. When he heard OutKast, Spree decided to become a rapper ans joined the group Knives Out in Atlanta. Spree's solo mixtape, Weird Science, was released in 2007. What makes him different that the typical mainstream rapper is his laidback, witty, and intellectual style of rapping, his guitar skills and his Mr. Rodgers sweater look with an old fedora.
Novel ft. Talib Kweli and Spree Wilson
Where Do We Go From Here
Dreamworld w/ Novel
Welcome to Heartbreak Freestyle w/ Novel
On guitar
*The first two bands are proof of how great Britain (ha ha) is when it comes to music!*
1) The Kooks: The English Indie band formed at Brighton Institute of Modern Music in 2004. Luke Pritchard, the lead singer, did a college project with bassist Max Rafferty, which started the basis of the band. When lead guitarist, Hugh Harris, and drummer, Paul Garred, joined, the group was officially named after the song "Kooks" by David Bowie (from 1971 album Hunky Dorie). Later, they were signed to Virgin Records after releasing an EP. Inside In/ Inside Out was their first album released on the label and their song "Naive" kept their album in the top 20 UK charts for over half of 2006. Eventually the album went triple platinum. After winning Best New Act at the Q awards and Best UK and Ireland Act at MTV's Europe Music Awards, the group put out a second album, Konk, in 2008. Bassist Max Rafferty was soon replaced by Dan Logan after several absences from him. Their second album went to number 1 in the UK and number 2 in Ireland. The album's first single was "Always Where I Need to Be." Currently, the group consists of Luke Pritchard, Hugh Harris, Paul Garred and Peter Denton, who replaced Dan Logan.
Always Where I Need to Be
Ooh La La
Sway
She Moves In Her Own Way
Naive
2) The Zutons: Coming from Liverpool, the "hard to categorize" Zutons formed in 2001, taking their name from The Magic Band guitarist Bill Harkleroad, whose nickname was Zoot Horn (or "Zuton") Rollo. Originally a four piece band with Dave McCabe (lead singer), Boyan Chowdhury (lead guitarist), Sean Payne (drummer) and Russell Pritchard (bassist), Sean's girlfriend Abi Harding, who plays saxophone, joined the group on stage a few times. The group and the audience liked her so much that she became a full-time member as a vocalist and saxophonist. Although the band put out two records, Devil's Deal and Creepin' and Crawlin', they officially released their debut record in 2004, called Who Killed...... The Zutons?. It reached at number 13 on the UK charts, but a year later, it paked at number 9. Later, the labum was re-issued with the single "Don't Ever Think (Too Much), which reached number 15 on the charts. Their songs "Confusion" and "Pressure Point" were put in both UK and US commercials.
In 2006, their second album, Tired of Hanging Around, was released and reached number 2 on the UK charts. Both singles "Why Won't You Give Me Your Love" and "Valerie" peaked at number 9 on the charts. Several artists have covered the song "Valerie," including Amy Winehouse (her cover reached number 2). On July 13, 2007, the group announced that Boyan Chowdhury left the Zutons for "musical differences." Paul Molly replaced him and The Zutons released their third album in 2008, called You Can Do Anything. "Always Right Behind You" was the first single on the album. Unfortunately, the group was dropped from Sony/BMG during Christmas season of 2008 because of low album sales.
You Will You Won't
Don't Ever Think Too Much
Confusion
Valerie
Official Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PksBPk_8QQ4
Why Won't You Give Me Your Love
3) Band of Horses: Previously known as the Horses, they formed in 2004 in Seattle by Ben Bridwell (guitar and vocals) and Matt Brooke (guitar) after their former band, Carissa's Weird, disbanded. In February 2006, Joe Arnone joined the group and the same year, they released their album, Everything All the Time. Later that year, Brooke left the band to start a new band, the Grand Archives. Since then, the band relocated to South Carolina and consist of members Ben Bridwell, Creighton Barrett, Ryan Monroe, Tyler Ramsey, Bill Reynolds and Blake Mills. Their second album, Cease to Begin, was released in 2007 and called one of the best albums of the year by Paste Magazine. One of their songs, "Funeral," has been used in several car commercials, trailers, video games and shows. The group has been known for their Southern Rock tendencies and glimmering reverb.
The Funeral
Is There a Ghost
The Great Salt Lake
The General Specific
No One's Gonna Love You
4) Spree Wilson: From Tennesse, he calls himself "the new generation's Beat writer, Jack Kerouac-influenced...Hippie peace fighter" and a self-proclaimed nerd. His life was changed when he heard De La Soul's album, 3 Feet High and Rising. Wilson's father was a doo-wop singer in Memphis and he grew up listening to the Blues and Jazz as well as Hip-hop. Also, Spree was influenced by Rock groups, like Nirvana, Pink Floyd and Sonic Youth. These different musical influences had helped Spree Wilson to develop his unique style. When he heard OutKast, Spree decided to become a rapper ans joined the group Knives Out in Atlanta. Spree's solo mixtape, Weird Science, was released in 2007. What makes him different that the typical mainstream rapper is his laidback, witty, and intellectual style of rapping, his guitar skills and his Mr. Rodgers sweater look with an old fedora.
Novel ft. Talib Kweli and Spree Wilson
Where Do We Go From Here
Dreamworld w/ Novel
Welcome to Heartbreak Freestyle w/ Novel
On guitar
Monday, March 9, 2009
"Who's That..." Artists of the Day
It is time again to put into the spotlight some not well-known artists (but who should be well-known!).
1) Laura Izibor
The Irish-born (yes, black people live in Ireland!) singer has already been compared to Alicia Keys because of her piano-focused songs. However, her soulful voice is way better than Alicia's voice, reminding me of other soul sistas like Lauryn Hill, Chrisette Michelle, Jill Scott, Joss Stone, and Amy Winehouse. After listening to such legends as Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder and Otis Redding. Izibor discovered her love for soul music. She has already opened for Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Angie Stone, The Roots, Estelle and John Legend. Also, a few of her songs have already appeared in shows, like Grey's Anatomy and The Hills, and movies, like Step Up 2 and Nanny Diaries.
Mmmm
Shine
Don't Stay
From My Heart to Yours
2) Esperanza Spalding
From Portland Oregon, the jazz singer is not your typical singer. Not only does she play bass guitar, but she also plays the double bass violin, the oboe and the clarinet. She was inspired by her mother and violinist Yo Yo Ma performing on Mr. Rodgers' Neighborhood at the ge of four. By five, she learned to play the violin and was performing with the Chamber Music Society of Oregon (by 15, she was a concertmaster). At sixteen, she went to Portland State University and then to Berklee College of Music in which she became one of the youngest professors in 2005. Her soft, light and dreamy voice takes me back to Ella Fitzgerald or Dinah Washington, but with the contemporary sounds of other artists, like Norah Jones. Spalding is making Jazz more appealing to a younger generation!
I Know You Know
She Got to You
Precious
Ponte De Aeria
Fall In
3) K'naan
He is like Will.I.Am mixed with Eminem, but better! The Somalian-born/Canadian poet, rapper and musician. K'naan's family moved to New York City during the Somalian Civil War in 1991 and then moved to Toronto. Learning some English from record from rappers, such as Nas and Rakim, he taught himself the hip hop and rap diction and began rapping. Since then he has worked with Nelly Furtado, Mos Def, The Roots, Dead Prez, Pharoahe Monch and Damien Marley. His second album, Troubadour, was released in Feburary 2009. What I like about K'naan is his music has a clear social message, especially about the situation in Somalia. He is against the whole gangsta rap cliche and styles because in Somalia, it was considered uncool. That's cool with me!
ABC's
Wavin' Flag
Bang Bang w/ Adam Levine
I Come Prepared w/ Damien Marley
People Like Me
4) Emily King
The new Tina Marie has arrived! A Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, Emily King is continuing the neo-soul sound. King mixes her African-American and Italian heritage to produce a unique sound using Jazz, Classical, Rock and Hip-hop. Her Jazz duo parents had a huge influence in her career path and got her GED at sixteen in order to pursue her music career. Since then, she has been signed to J Records and released her debut album, East Side Story.
Walk In My Shoes w/ Lupe Fiasco
U and I
E Melody
Never Be Lonely
1) Laura Izibor
The Irish-born (yes, black people live in Ireland!) singer has already been compared to Alicia Keys because of her piano-focused songs. However, her soulful voice is way better than Alicia's voice, reminding me of other soul sistas like Lauryn Hill, Chrisette Michelle, Jill Scott, Joss Stone, and Amy Winehouse. After listening to such legends as Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder and Otis Redding. Izibor discovered her love for soul music. She has already opened for Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Angie Stone, The Roots, Estelle and John Legend. Also, a few of her songs have already appeared in shows, like Grey's Anatomy and The Hills, and movies, like Step Up 2 and Nanny Diaries.
Mmmm
Shine
Don't Stay
From My Heart to Yours
2) Esperanza Spalding
From Portland Oregon, the jazz singer is not your typical singer. Not only does she play bass guitar, but she also plays the double bass violin, the oboe and the clarinet. She was inspired by her mother and violinist Yo Yo Ma performing on Mr. Rodgers' Neighborhood at the ge of four. By five, she learned to play the violin and was performing with the Chamber Music Society of Oregon (by 15, she was a concertmaster). At sixteen, she went to Portland State University and then to Berklee College of Music in which she became one of the youngest professors in 2005. Her soft, light and dreamy voice takes me back to Ella Fitzgerald or Dinah Washington, but with the contemporary sounds of other artists, like Norah Jones. Spalding is making Jazz more appealing to a younger generation!
I Know You Know
She Got to You
Precious
Ponte De Aeria
Fall In
3) K'naan
He is like Will.I.Am mixed with Eminem, but better! The Somalian-born/Canadian poet, rapper and musician. K'naan's family moved to New York City during the Somalian Civil War in 1991 and then moved to Toronto. Learning some English from record from rappers, such as Nas and Rakim, he taught himself the hip hop and rap diction and began rapping. Since then he has worked with Nelly Furtado, Mos Def, The Roots, Dead Prez, Pharoahe Monch and Damien Marley. His second album, Troubadour, was released in Feburary 2009. What I like about K'naan is his music has a clear social message, especially about the situation in Somalia. He is against the whole gangsta rap cliche and styles because in Somalia, it was considered uncool. That's cool with me!
ABC's
Wavin' Flag
Bang Bang w/ Adam Levine
I Come Prepared w/ Damien Marley
People Like Me
4) Emily King
The new Tina Marie has arrived! A Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, Emily King is continuing the neo-soul sound. King mixes her African-American and Italian heritage to produce a unique sound using Jazz, Classical, Rock and Hip-hop. Her Jazz duo parents had a huge influence in her career path and got her GED at sixteen in order to pursue her music career. Since then, she has been signed to J Records and released her debut album, East Side Story.
Walk In My Shoes w/ Lupe Fiasco
U and I
E Melody
Never Be Lonely
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
"Who's That..." Artists of the Day
Time again to find out about some new and old artists!
1) Michael Penn: One of the best indie artists out there! Do you want to know how I found out about him? Well, he is the older brother of one of my favorite actors, Sean Penn! Coming from such a talented acting family, it is kind of weird that he became a musician, but he is a really great singer-songwriter. He is often considered a one-hit wonder with the song "No Myth" from his debut album March from 1989 (won MTV Best New Artist award in 1990). Since then he has released four albums Free-for-All (1992), Resigned (1997) and MP4: Days Since a Lost Time Accident (2000), Mr. Hollywood Jr., 1947 (2005, on his own Mimeograph Records label), which received critical-acclaim, but were not as successful commercially. So far, he has been creating songs and scores for films and TV shows, such as Boogie Nights, Scrubs, I Am Sam, etc. His free-form style of lyric writing mixed with his indie rock pop sound (influences are Bob Dylan, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and David Bowie- all of them I love!) makes him creatively and musically appealing. In fact, he is often compared to Elvis Costello!
Try
No Myth
This and That
Innocent One
Walter Reed
2) Nikka Costa: Do you remember a song named "Like A Feather?" Ever wonder what happened to the singer? Well, the singer, Nikka Costa is still around. The Tokyo-born Spanish singer was surrounded by music since she was little because her father, Don Costa, was a producer, arranger and musician with many artists connections. At five, she worked with Hawaiian singer, Don Ho and at age nine sang with Frank Sinatra at the White House. She started her recording career in 1981 in Italy with "(Out Here) On My Own" (from the musical Fame). It rose to #1 on European charts in September of that year and stayed on the top spots for several weeks. Releasing several albums, such as Nikka Costa, Fairy Tales, and Here I Am, she became big in Europe and South America. However, Nikka did not develop her funk/soul/rock style till later on in her career while listening to a lot of Motown music. Since then, she released Butterfly Rocket (1996; featured "Like a Feather"), Everybody Got Their Something (hit single from title track) and can'tneverdidnothin' in the U.S. Currently, she signed with Stax Records (my favorite Soul label) and released her latest album, Pebble to Pearl in October. Let's get down and funky with Nikka!
Like A Feather
Everybody Got Their Something (played during many
Push and Pull
Get Off My Sunshine
Hope It Feels Good
Nothing
Till I Get to You
3) Mando Diao: The punk/garage band from Sweden has had a following in Sweden, Germany, and Japan and recently spread to Western Europe, most noticeably the UK. Hurricane Bar is the band's breakthrough album. Dating back to 1995 in the group Butler and a different line-up, it was not until 2003 with their first album Bring 'Em In that they were starting to get noticed. Since then the group released four albums, which are Ode to Ochrasy, Never Seen The Light Of Day, Hurricane Bar and their latest in Feburary, Give Me Fire. The latest album debuted in Germany at #1. Their sound mixes Artic Monkeys with the Sex Pistols. It rocks, literally!
Dance With Somebody
Long Before Rock 'N" Roll
God Knows
You Can't Steal My Love
4) Lisa Hannigan: Her voice is eerie, but in a beautiful way! The Irish singer, musician and actress has already worked with two singers I like, Jason Mraz and Damien Rice. She has begun her career with her debut album Sea Sew with the hit, "Lillie."Her influences include a wide rnge from Joni Mitchell to Nina Simone to Janis Joplin to Michael Jackson.
Lillie
Pistachio
Get This Party Started w/ Damien Rice (Great Cover of Pink's song)
Lucky w/ Jason Mraz
9 Crimes w/ Damien Rice
1) Michael Penn: One of the best indie artists out there! Do you want to know how I found out about him? Well, he is the older brother of one of my favorite actors, Sean Penn! Coming from such a talented acting family, it is kind of weird that he became a musician, but he is a really great singer-songwriter. He is often considered a one-hit wonder with the song "No Myth" from his debut album March from 1989 (won MTV Best New Artist award in 1990). Since then he has released four albums Free-for-All (1992), Resigned (1997) and MP4: Days Since a Lost Time Accident (2000), Mr. Hollywood Jr., 1947 (2005, on his own Mimeograph Records label), which received critical-acclaim, but were not as successful commercially. So far, he has been creating songs and scores for films and TV shows, such as Boogie Nights, Scrubs, I Am Sam, etc. His free-form style of lyric writing mixed with his indie rock pop sound (influences are Bob Dylan, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and David Bowie- all of them I love!) makes him creatively and musically appealing. In fact, he is often compared to Elvis Costello!
Try
No Myth
This and That
Innocent One
Walter Reed
2) Nikka Costa: Do you remember a song named "Like A Feather?" Ever wonder what happened to the singer? Well, the singer, Nikka Costa is still around. The Tokyo-born Spanish singer was surrounded by music since she was little because her father, Don Costa, was a producer, arranger and musician with many artists connections. At five, she worked with Hawaiian singer, Don Ho and at age nine sang with Frank Sinatra at the White House. She started her recording career in 1981 in Italy with "(Out Here) On My Own" (from the musical Fame). It rose to #1 on European charts in September of that year and stayed on the top spots for several weeks. Releasing several albums, such as Nikka Costa, Fairy Tales, and Here I Am, she became big in Europe and South America. However, Nikka did not develop her funk/soul/rock style till later on in her career while listening to a lot of Motown music. Since then, she released Butterfly Rocket (1996; featured "Like a Feather"), Everybody Got Their Something (hit single from title track) and can'tneverdidnothin' in the U.S. Currently, she signed with Stax Records (my favorite Soul label) and released her latest album, Pebble to Pearl in October. Let's get down and funky with Nikka!
Like A Feather
Everybody Got Their Something (played during many
Push and Pull
Get Off My Sunshine
Hope It Feels Good
Nothing
Till I Get to You
3) Mando Diao: The punk/garage band from Sweden has had a following in Sweden, Germany, and Japan and recently spread to Western Europe, most noticeably the UK. Hurricane Bar is the band's breakthrough album. Dating back to 1995 in the group Butler and a different line-up, it was not until 2003 with their first album Bring 'Em In that they were starting to get noticed. Since then the group released four albums, which are Ode to Ochrasy, Never Seen The Light Of Day, Hurricane Bar and their latest in Feburary, Give Me Fire. The latest album debuted in Germany at #1. Their sound mixes Artic Monkeys with the Sex Pistols. It rocks, literally!
Dance With Somebody
Long Before Rock 'N" Roll
God Knows
You Can't Steal My Love
4) Lisa Hannigan: Her voice is eerie, but in a beautiful way! The Irish singer, musician and actress has already worked with two singers I like, Jason Mraz and Damien Rice. She has begun her career with her debut album Sea Sew with the hit, "Lillie."Her influences include a wide rnge from Joni Mitchell to Nina Simone to Janis Joplin to Michael Jackson.
Lillie
Pistachio
Get This Party Started w/ Damien Rice (Great Cover of Pink's song)
Lucky w/ Jason Mraz
9 Crimes w/ Damien Rice
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
"Who's That..." Artists of the Day
Well, it's again time to learn about some new artists! Here they are:
1) Gabriella Cilimi: The Australian-born Italian singer is already being compared to Amy Winehouse, Anastacia and Macy Gray. She is continuing in the line of "Blue-eyed Soul" and I am glad because her voice is great!
Sweet About Me
Save the Lies
Sanctuary
2) Noel Gourdin: The Boston native and his soulful voice will take him far. His song "By the River" reminds of Southern Gospel and Soul, which is funny, since he is from New England. I am glad real soul is making a comeback.
By the River
Better Man
One Love
3) Novel: Rapper/singer Novel is definitely breaking the mold. Several labels did not want to deal with him because they did not know what category to put him in (another reason why record labels make me mad). Following in the footsteps of another rapper/singer/producer/songwriter, Lauryn Hill (who he has worked with)and Missy Elliot, he has already worked with several artists, such as Talib Kweli, Joss Stone, India Arie and Lionel Richie. Now it's his time to shine!!
I Am w/ Talib Kweli and Spree Wilson
Lost (remix) w/ Coldplay
Winter Version/ Hard 2 Stay a Float
4) Jay Electroinca: Erykah Badu's baby dady, Jay Electronica, is a producer who is now starting his rap career. He has worked with several rappers, including Nas, who he is somewhat of a protege of. Jay has a unique lyrical and music(samples movie soundtracks for beats)style. One of the best out there right now!
Exhibit A Transformations
I Feel Good
Renaissance Man
1) Gabriella Cilimi: The Australian-born Italian singer is already being compared to Amy Winehouse, Anastacia and Macy Gray. She is continuing in the line of "Blue-eyed Soul" and I am glad because her voice is great!
Sweet About Me
Save the Lies
Sanctuary
2) Noel Gourdin: The Boston native and his soulful voice will take him far. His song "By the River" reminds of Southern Gospel and Soul, which is funny, since he is from New England. I am glad real soul is making a comeback.
By the River
Better Man
One Love
3) Novel: Rapper/singer Novel is definitely breaking the mold. Several labels did not want to deal with him because they did not know what category to put him in (another reason why record labels make me mad). Following in the footsteps of another rapper/singer/producer/songwriter, Lauryn Hill (who he has worked with)and Missy Elliot, he has already worked with several artists, such as Talib Kweli, Joss Stone, India Arie and Lionel Richie. Now it's his time to shine!!
I Am w/ Talib Kweli and Spree Wilson
Lost (remix) w/ Coldplay
Winter Version/ Hard 2 Stay a Float
4) Jay Electroinca: Erykah Badu's baby dady, Jay Electronica, is a producer who is now starting his rap career. He has worked with several rappers, including Nas, who he is somewhat of a protege of. Jay has a unique lyrical and music(samples movie soundtracks for beats)style. One of the best out there right now!
Exhibit A Transformations
I Feel Good
Renaissance Man
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
"Who's That..." Artists of the Day
Here is another session of "Who's That..." Artists of the Day!
1) Morgan Heritage: This group of siblings (four brothers, one sister) from Brooklyn, who formed in 1990, are a legendary reggae band in addition to coming from reggae royalty; their father is Denroy Morgan. What makes them legendary is that they are not an ordinary reggae band. They mix hip-hop, reggae, dancehall, new wave, and punk, rock to create a sound all their own. Since the group has not put itself in a box, Morgan Heritage has performed with NewFound Glory, Good Charlotte and performed in punk rock tours.
Don't Haffi Dread
Down By the River
Let's make Up
She's Still Loving Me
Raid Rootz Dance
Nothing to Smile About
U've Got Me ft. Sizzla and Bounty Killa
Jah Comes First
2) Mickey Factz: Coming from the Bronx, this mixtape rapper has been gaining momentum. He left NYU to start his music career and I am so glad he did! Even better, he's not only a rapper, but a business man. Definitely doing it for himself by co-finding his own marketing, branding and styling business and label, GFC New York. Basically, his music is smart rap over smart beats. Once again, go cool nerds!!!
Rockin' and Rollin' ft. Cool Kids (the track has an accordian on it!?)
The Flood
Automatic
You Remind Me (The Caveman Song)
There's Nothing Left
3) The Cool Kids: Another set of cool nerds!!! Mickey Rocks and Chuck Inglish are bringing back that old school flavor that I love! Hailing from Chicago and Detroit, these guys have been labeled as "Hipster Rap." They have released single on their Myspace and thier label, C.A.K.E. and recently have been signed to independent label, Chocolate Industries.
'88
Black Mags
What Up Man
Delivery Man
Pump Up the Volume
4) Blu: I call his style "mellow rap" or better known as indie-rap. The Californian rapper was influenced by his stepfather, who was a pastor, Gospel, Christian rap and Common (0ne of my favorite rappers). He signed to independent label Sound in Color and released his debut record Below the Heavens. Working with the producer Exile on his records has put him higher on my list; his lyrics and Exile's beats work perfectly.
So(ul) Amazing
Dancing in the Rain
No Greater Love
Blu Collar Workers
Just Another Day
5) U-n-i: Here's another group reviving the "true essence of Hip-hop." Y-O and Thurz, from Los Angeles, got the name of their group from the Roots' (another of my favs) 1996 album, Illadelph Halflife. They have open for several other Hip-hop artists like Lupe Fiasco, Ludacris, The Roots and Redman. We need more rap groups like them in the mainstream arena.
K.R.E.A.M.
Fat Girls
Beautiful Day
1) Morgan Heritage: This group of siblings (four brothers, one sister) from Brooklyn, who formed in 1990, are a legendary reggae band in addition to coming from reggae royalty; their father is Denroy Morgan. What makes them legendary is that they are not an ordinary reggae band. They mix hip-hop, reggae, dancehall, new wave, and punk, rock to create a sound all their own. Since the group has not put itself in a box, Morgan Heritage has performed with NewFound Glory, Good Charlotte and performed in punk rock tours.
Don't Haffi Dread
Down By the River
Let's make Up
She's Still Loving Me
Raid Rootz Dance
Nothing to Smile About
U've Got Me ft. Sizzla and Bounty Killa
Jah Comes First
2) Mickey Factz: Coming from the Bronx, this mixtape rapper has been gaining momentum. He left NYU to start his music career and I am so glad he did! Even better, he's not only a rapper, but a business man. Definitely doing it for himself by co-finding his own marketing, branding and styling business and label, GFC New York. Basically, his music is smart rap over smart beats. Once again, go cool nerds!!!
Rockin' and Rollin' ft. Cool Kids (the track has an accordian on it!?)
The Flood
Automatic
You Remind Me (The Caveman Song)
There's Nothing Left
3) The Cool Kids: Another set of cool nerds!!! Mickey Rocks and Chuck Inglish are bringing back that old school flavor that I love! Hailing from Chicago and Detroit, these guys have been labeled as "Hipster Rap." They have released single on their Myspace and thier label, C.A.K.E. and recently have been signed to independent label, Chocolate Industries.
'88
Black Mags
What Up Man
Delivery Man
Pump Up the Volume
4) Blu: I call his style "mellow rap" or better known as indie-rap. The Californian rapper was influenced by his stepfather, who was a pastor, Gospel, Christian rap and Common (0ne of my favorite rappers). He signed to independent label Sound in Color and released his debut record Below the Heavens. Working with the producer Exile on his records has put him higher on my list; his lyrics and Exile's beats work perfectly.
So(ul) Amazing
Dancing in the Rain
No Greater Love
Blu Collar Workers
Just Another Day
5) U-n-i: Here's another group reviving the "true essence of Hip-hop." Y-O and Thurz, from Los Angeles, got the name of their group from the Roots' (another of my favs) 1996 album, Illadelph Halflife. They have open for several other Hip-hop artists like Lupe Fiasco, Ludacris, The Roots and Redman. We need more rap groups like them in the mainstream arena.
K.R.E.A.M.
Fat Girls
Beautiful Day
Monday, January 19, 2009
"Who's That..." Artists of the Day
Happy Martin Luther King Day!!!! And Inauguration Day Eve for Barack Obama!!! MLK would have been proud!!!
Time for another session of "Who's That..." Artists of the Day
1) Chester French: I like these guys' style. They sound like the 60's rock groups (e.g. Beatles) with a little Hip-hop and R&B in them. Talib Kweli, one of my favorite rappers, worked with them. Also, they are great producers. Pharell and Lupe Fiasco gave them two thumbs up!! How cool is that!!!
She Loves Everybody
Jimmy Choo's
Excuse Me Miss Remix (C.F. produced)
Talib Kweli ft. Chester French
2) Bria Valente: She is Prince's protege and her first single was produced by him. I can see why Prince chose her. Bria has a smooth voice that reminds of Sade or Chante Moore and she is beautiful.
Here Eye Come
3) Richie Spice: Another man who takes after Bob Marley. His voice is beautiful and his songs are socially conscious. He may not be "OMG" cute, but he is talented. I can not get any of his songs out of my head.
Youth Em Cold
Earth N Run Red
Brown Skin (my favorite at this moment)
World is a Cycle
4) Tanya Stephens: She is called the "Female Bob Marley," which is justifiable because her music has great messages and is reminscent of the reggae from the past that people loved. However, sometimes her voice can be annoying (she sounds better live or acoustic), so Caveat!
These Streets
Can't Breathe
Yuh Nuh Ready Fi Dis Yet
Little White Lie
It's a Pity
Time for another session of "Who's That..." Artists of the Day
1) Chester French: I like these guys' style. They sound like the 60's rock groups (e.g. Beatles) with a little Hip-hop and R&B in them. Talib Kweli, one of my favorite rappers, worked with them. Also, they are great producers. Pharell and Lupe Fiasco gave them two thumbs up!! How cool is that!!!
She Loves Everybody
Jimmy Choo's
Excuse Me Miss Remix (C.F. produced)
Talib Kweli ft. Chester French
2) Bria Valente: She is Prince's protege and her first single was produced by him. I can see why Prince chose her. Bria has a smooth voice that reminds of Sade or Chante Moore and she is beautiful.
Here Eye Come
3) Richie Spice: Another man who takes after Bob Marley. His voice is beautiful and his songs are socially conscious. He may not be "OMG" cute, but he is talented. I can not get any of his songs out of my head.
Youth Em Cold
Earth N Run Red
Brown Skin (my favorite at this moment)
World is a Cycle
4) Tanya Stephens: She is called the "Female Bob Marley," which is justifiable because her music has great messages and is reminscent of the reggae from the past that people loved. However, sometimes her voice can be annoying (she sounds better live or acoustic), so Caveat!
These Streets
Can't Breathe
Yuh Nuh Ready Fi Dis Yet
Little White Lie
It's a Pity
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
"Who's That..." Artists of the Day
Time for "Who's That..." Artists of the Day again! :
1) B.O.B: New and upcoming rapper from Atlanta. I saw him on a short MTV News clip and decided to check him out. He was the best out of all the rappers presented on it. His songs have hot beats and are catchy!!! Plus, he is one of the few new rappers who actually have something to say when they rap!!!
I'll Be In the Sky
Grip Your Body feat. Amy Winehouse
Mellow Fellow
2) Atmosphere: Independent rap group from Minnesota that have been around since the early nineties. The two members are Slug (Rapper) and Ant (DJ/Producer). Their style is very different from mainstream hip-hop today. It is more laidback and introspective. They sound almost like Everlast later in his career.
Sunshine
You
You (acoustic)
3) Brandi Carlile: A folk (with a hint of country) rock singer with an amazing voice (Pasty Cline mixed with Mellisa Etheridge)! I can't get her songs out of my head! Her lyrics are thought-provoking, and her songs sometimes makes me want to cry. She's definitely worth listening to! (BTW: Her videos are beautiful too, but I couldn't embed them, so check it out on youtube!)
1) B.O.B: New and upcoming rapper from Atlanta. I saw him on a short MTV News clip and decided to check him out. He was the best out of all the rappers presented on it. His songs have hot beats and are catchy!!! Plus, he is one of the few new rappers who actually have something to say when they rap!!!
I'll Be In the Sky
Grip Your Body feat. Amy Winehouse
Mellow Fellow
2) Atmosphere: Independent rap group from Minnesota that have been around since the early nineties. The two members are Slug (Rapper) and Ant (DJ/Producer). Their style is very different from mainstream hip-hop today. It is more laidback and introspective. They sound almost like Everlast later in his career.
Guarentees
Sunshine
Yesterday
You
You (acoustic)
3) Brandi Carlile: A folk (with a hint of country) rock singer with an amazing voice (Pasty Cline mixed with Mellisa Etheridge)! I can't get her songs out of my head! Her lyrics are thought-provoking, and her songs sometimes makes me want to cry. She's definitely worth listening to! (BTW: Her videos are beautiful too, but I couldn't embed them, so check it out on youtube!)
The Story
Turpentine
Closer to You
4) Les Nubians: Two sisters from France and Chad (Africa) who have a Sade meets Floetry vibe. I love their songs!
4) Les Nubians: Two sisters from France and Chad (Africa) who have a Sade meets Floetry vibe. I love their songs!
Makeda
Sweetest Taboo ft. the Roots
Temperature Rising
5) Joanna Cotten: She's a soulful, bluesy country girl and I like her sassiness when she sings!
5) Joanna Cotten: She's a soulful, bluesy country girl and I like her sassiness when she sings!
Funkabilly
High Maintenance
6) The Knux: Brothers from New Orleans with an old school hip-hop flava. I basically call them a cooler version of Kid N Play and if you don't know who they are look them up!!! Cool Nerds, yeah!!!
6) The Knux: Brothers from New Orleans with an old school hip-hop flava. I basically call them a cooler version of Kid N Play and if you don't know who they are look them up!!! Cool Nerds, yeah!!!
Bang Bang
Cappuccino
Friday, January 9, 2009
"Who's That..." Artists of the Day
Time again for some new artists.... Jah Cure and James Morrison
1) Jah Cure: He is a Jamaican reggae singer who's songs have inspiring lyrics (some influenced by his jail sentence of 15 years for rape, robbery and gun possession, but released eight years later on parole and he still claims his innocence) and beautiful melodies (as a lot of reggae songs do). He might be this generation's Bob Marley. Cure has worked with other reggae artists, like Beres Hammond (one of my favorite reggae singers).
1) Jah Cure: He is a Jamaican reggae singer who's songs have inspiring lyrics (some influenced by his jail sentence of 15 years for rape, robbery and gun possession, but released eight years later on parole and he still claims his innocence) and beautiful melodies (as a lot of reggae songs do). He might be this generation's Bob Marley. Cure has worked with other reggae artists, like Beres Hammond (one of my favorite reggae singers).
Longing For
As Long As I Live
Woman I Love You
Freedom
2) James Morrison: He is a successful UK artist, who I wish I had found about earlier. James has a beautiful voice and the song with Nelly Furtado should be a hit here! Mr. Jason Mraz even worked with him. Make him a success over here!!!
2) James Morrison: He is a successful UK artist, who I wish I had found about earlier. James has a beautiful voice and the song with Nelly Furtado should be a hit here! Mr. Jason Mraz even worked with him. Make him a success over here!!!
Broken Strings ft. Nelly Furtado
Wonderful World
Saturday, January 3, 2009
"Who's That..." Artists of the Day
Welcome again to Reese's Ear Candy! This is another feature of my blog called "Who's That..." in which I post videos and songs of artists you may have not heard of from the present and the past:
2) The Noisettes: This is a band from England that I found out about recently. The Brits are taking over again! I like their songs, they are different than other bands and the lead singer has a jazzy rock sound to her voice. Listen to "Count of Monte Christo" on youtube. I couldn't get it on here, but here are songs I liked. Maybe I'll be in a band like that one day. Just hoping...
3) Sia: She's quirky, adorable and her songs are beautiful.
4) Al Bowlly: He is a British Jazz singer from the 1930's. I was reading an interview of Adrien Brody and came across that he likes him. I checked him out and he sounds nice.
Enjoy and check other songs by these artists on youtube!!
1) The Answer: I recently heard this group and thought they were awesome! They are from Ireland and they remind me of the 60s and 70s heavy metal rock bands that I love...
2) The Noisettes: This is a band from England that I found out about recently. The Brits are taking over again! I like their songs, they are different than other bands and the lead singer has a jazzy rock sound to her voice. Listen to "Count of Monte Christo" on youtube. I couldn't get it on here, but here are songs I liked. Maybe I'll be in a band like that one day. Just hoping...
3) Sia: She's quirky, adorable and her songs are beautiful.
4) Al Bowlly: He is a British Jazz singer from the 1930's. I was reading an interview of Adrien Brody and came across that he likes him. I checked him out and he sounds nice.
Enjoy and check other songs by these artists on youtube!!
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