Jill Scott's Light of the Sun Album Cover

Check out Miss Jilly from Philly. Now tell me this album cover isn't smoking HOT? The Philly native is slated to release her long awaited Light of the Sun album June 28th. God I pray Warner Brothers don't push back the release date...we need all the good music we can get. Enjoy these unreleased songs from Jill Scott, courtesy of her former record label Hidden Beach Records. Here's a little treat to hold  you over until the release of her new album. Enjoy and sip some wine!

New Video: Def Sound- Again

I saw Def Sound open for J*Davey a couple weeks ago on their New World Culture tour. For some reason his name sounded real familiar, then it dawned on me that his music has been chilling in my inbox for months now. Light bulb moment! His energy on stage is way through the roof. Now is it me or does he resemble Jazz from Fresh Prince of Bel Air? He's quite the debonair hippie with his two story gumby and his cat whiskers. WARNING! You may experience motion sickness while watching this video...don't say I didn't warn you. Peep the many wardrobe changes. Dope!

Exclusive Interview With Rahsaan Patterson

A couple of weeks ago, I got the opportunity to catch up with singer and songwriter Rahsaan Patterson after his performance at The Park in DC hosted by BBE. I've been interviewing artists for almost 2 years now and  talking to Rahsaan was the most memorable of them all. I was super stoked about that! Who uses that word anymore? I don't know but you get my excitement. Besides his amazing voice, he was really down to earth and friendly. Sometimes that's hard to find when artists have been in the game for 10 years or more.

Let me explain a couple of things before you watch the video clip. Rahsaan and I were in the bathroom due to all of the noise in the club, so he suggested a quiet place so we could chat. I thought it was a perfect idea, although the bathroom attendant gave us grief, insinuating that we were going to do something (wink) other than talking. C'mon...I'm a lady. LOL. Oh keep in mind he was recovering from the flu. You would never know if he hadn't warned us before his performance. He makes the flu sound sooooo good. Check it out!


Exclusive Rahsaan Patterson Interview from Soul Phoenixx on Vimeo.

New Music Video: J*Davey- Rain Check

Francis and The Lights visit Jimmy Kimmel Live

I just love Francis and the Lights. I discovered them at Drake's Away From Home tour last summer. Right after the show, I got my hands on both of their albums...been a fan ever since. Lead singer Francis reminds me of  Edward Scissor Hands and Patrick Dempsey in the movie Lover Boy. He has the coolest hair and I even have my own version of it. Bet you didn't know they produced Drake's song Karoake off his debut album Thank Me Later. They performed on Jimmy Kimmel Live last week. Check it out!

Prince and NPG cover Michael Jackson's Don't Stop Til You Get Enough

Prince and New Power Generation paid tribute to the King of Pop Michael Jackson during his first night in California for his Welcome 2 America tour. They performed MJ's Don't Stop Til You Get Enough and Prince's song Cool. He even brought Desperate Housewives actress Eva Longoria on stage to party with him. Thanks Perez Hilton for this footage. Check out the video. Prince wilds out during the 5:00 mark. I love it!

Prince on Lopez Tonight

If you missed it, last Thursday Prince appeared on Lopez Tonight to kick off his 21 night stand at the L.A. Forum.  The "almighty Purple One" schooled us on how easy it is to cover a song, his affordable concert ticket prices and where hot dogs really come from. As you know Prince took over Madison Square Garden for a couple months and now he is taking over the Forum in California. For all of you that live on the west coast, you are in for a TREAT! The first time I saw Prince was for my thirteenth birthday in D.C. and then again last December in New York. He's definitely in my top 5 concerts of all time. Money shouldn't be a problem because Live Nation are starting ticket prices at $25. Now in light of the horrible gas prices, that maybe too much to handle. SMH If you don't do anything else before you die, you need to see him before he turns 75 and no longer can do splits, jump on top of pianos. Check out his performances.

New Music:Jill Scott ft Anthony Hamilton- So In Love

Music has been so good to me this month. All month Jill Scott has been spoon feeding us little goodies prepping us for the release of her new album The Light of The Sun, which drops later this year. Her official first single is So In Love featuring one of my favorite southern crooners Mr. Anthony Hamilton. These two on one track is simply heaven in my ears. Lets go skating or two step or something. No lie...I've listened to this song about 20 times since yesterday. By the way, as promised Monique is dedicating a whole hour to the Philly native on her TV show. I CAN NOT WAIT! I'll keep you guys posted when I get more details. Enjoy this song!

Concert Review: BET Music Matters Tour

Last Thursday I went to the BET Music Matters tour at Rams Head to see  newcomer CJ Hilton, Anthony David, Melanie Fiona and the headliner Marsha Ambrosius. While I've seen all of them perform live individually, it was nice to have them all on one show. It's nothing like live instrumentation and that's definitely what they brought to the stage. What do they all have in common you ask? They all have soulful voices, meaningful lyrics and are on there way to becoming world's biggest stars.

Baltimore's own and J Records new artist CJ Hilton warmed up the crowd before the other acts blessed the stage. Most people didn't even know who he was which is why this tour is a blessing and honor for him to be apart of. I don't know if yall remember, but he performed on last year's BET Awards during their Music Matters segment. His first single, Get It In is one of my new favorite songs on urban radio. The Bmore cutie hopped on the drums and even played the keyboard, proving that he is more than just a singer. Anytime an artist out of Baltimore and makes it big, I'm happy for them. Keep your ears and eyes open for CJ Hilton. Mr Hilton has pipes and he even hits all the high notes.

Next up was president Barack Obama's favorite soul singer Anthony David. I've seen him probably about 2 times live and even interviewed him. And while I thoroughly enjoy his raspy voice, Baltimore on the other hand is a tough crowd to please. If you don't know, then just come to a concert in Baltimore and witness it for yourself. Either we like you or we don't. There is no in between.

He opened his set with Words but it wasn't until he sang Body Language off of his new album As Above, So Below did the crowd go HAM. I'm guessing it's something about that drum and guitar boom kat that got the crowd rowdy and even when he sang his most recent hit 4evermore, that is played hourly on the radio...that wasn't enough. Anthony did get a little crowd participation when he sang Girlfriend. Oh welp, anytime you open for someone else that is the risk you take. Hopefully, when he returns in a couple of weeks, he'll get the love I know he deserves because the brother is talented.

Then there is Ms. Melanie Fiona who is one of the most humble sweetest artists that I have met since I've worked on the radio and since I've been blogging. O yea I interviewed her (shameless plug) while writing for another blog right before her debut album The Bridge hit stores. Melanie and her background singers came ready to party. The background singers where the most energetic duo that I have ever witnessed. Gotta love enthusiastic singers! Melanie had on a J. Lo floppy hat, shredded up tank top, leather crop jacket, and what looked to be leather leggings and some fierce black pumps.

She sang Aye Yo, Bang Bang, It Kills Me and new songs Rock Paper, Scissors and Change The Record to name a few. Although I've heard Change the Record once or twice before, it wasn't until hearing it live did I grow to love this “girl anthem”. Her stage presence has gotten a lot better since I've seen her on tour with Alicia Keys just a year ago. It seems like she is more comfortable and now she owns the stage. While I always enjoy seeing Melanie, the highlight of her entire set was at the very end when she sang her rendition of Ironic by Alanis Morissette. That was totally unexpected. Make sure y’all support her and be on the look out for the new album The MF Life dropping later this year. Interpret the title at your own risk.

OK... so BET saved the BEST for last. Marsha Ambroisus definitely took me on the most sensual ride that I have ever been on outside of the bedroom. It was like foreplay, sex and the climax without having any type of physical contact with another person or even yourself. (No pun intended) I enjoyed every single moment of it! NO HOMO! How many times do you go to a concert and hear the same beautiful un-flawed voice in person? I'm going to say, its not that often and I am a concert feign. There were a couple of times where I just wanted to either throw my shoe at her and bum rush the stage with sheer gratitude and excitement, for I couldn't control how happy my ears and soul were for Marsha's gift. The lady has stage presence that just captivates her audience leaving us in a trance until the very last song  and even to the predictable encore.

She even ranted and raved about how men ain’t shit and women ain’t either...saying we both need to step our games up. Marsha is so honest and unapologetic about it. I'm sure that's partly the reason why her fans GO HARD for her besides her undeniable talent. She must of read my playlist for her set before she hit the stage because I promise you she sang With You, Late Nights & Early Mornings, Loose Myself and Your Hands, which all happen to be my favorite tracks on the album. Boy was I ecstatic! She practically performed the whole album. Oh and shout out to her band...they killed IT, especially my man on the keys. He was giving us the best that he got (Anita Baker voice).

Too many funny moments to recap during Marsha's set. Once Dj Aktive and the audience cheered for to come back for an encore she sang....(waiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiit for it).....Soul Glo and the Golden Girls Theme song. At this point, people were leaving and I inched up a bit to get a better view. I was too through, almost choked I laughed so hard. See ladies and gents these are the rare moments you missed since you were too cheap to buy your ticket or you just waited until the last minute knowing DAMN well the tickets were going to sell out. For those of you that haven't purchased Late Nights & Early Mornings yet, you should be ashamed especially if you consider yourself a music lover, so do all of us a favor and download it on iTunes immediately or run to the nearest record store after you read this awesome review.

Here are a few signs that an artist gave a stellar performance. A good way to judge whether or not a concert is good, brilliant, great, the BESTEST is to think about what songs they didn't sing on your way home. If you can't pinpoint what you didn't hear and still had a great time and you're not mad that they didn't sing your JAM, then you know that was a good show. On the ride home, as I was in the car with my home girl...we knew she didn't sing songs off the Yours Sincerely  (oh yea she did sing Take Care) or Neo Soul is Dead mixtape and some other unreleased songs but again, WE DIDN'T CARE.

For all my readers and followers in other states, this BET Music Matters tour is a must see concert. You will not be disappointed, for every artist on the bill can truly sing. There will be NO auto tune, ashy voice cracking, hoarse, overly saturated sound effects or chopped and screwed songs where you are unable to identify your favorite song. You won't walk away destroyed like I did last summer after seeing Lauryn Hill butcher her own songs. Yea I'm firing shots at L. Boogie. I digress, anyway go get your ticket RIGHT NOW. Thanks and good night! Check out some of the concert footage.

Adele graces the pages of Elle Magazine

Something about this picture of Adele is so striking to me. At first glance, I love it... but if I look too long, she looks kind of scary. Nonetheless her makeup is flawless. Check out part of her interview.

On the love songs written about her ex: “We’re not on great enough terms for me to say, ‘Oh, have you heard my record? It’s number one; did you know?”

*Her album 21 is available now. Go get it!

New Video: Kelly Rowland ft Lil Wayne- Motivation

This song just does something to me! Motivation is so Ms. Kelly material. Baby I'mma be your motivaton. Enjoy while I zone out.

New Music: Jill Scott- Lovely Day

Jill Scott releases her rendition of Bill Withers' classic Lovely Day. This song can be found on Hidden Beach's Just Before Dawn: Jill Scott From the Vault, Vol. 1. Enjoy!

Gentleman Jack Arts, Beats & Lyrics Recap

Gentleman Jack Arts, Beats & Lyrics stopped by D.C. on its highly anticipated tour this past Friday. This was my third time attending the event and once again I had a ball! This event encompasses dope art exhibits, DJing, hip hop performances, graffiti, Jack Daniels, and people from all walks of life. If you love hip hop and just culture itself, then you should smack yourself for not partying with us. While I was there, I  got an opportunity to talk to XXL magazine "Hip Hop Freshman"  Compton rapper Kendrick Lamar. Check out the pics and interview!

Chanel Laren: When can we expect your full length album?

Kendrick Lamar: I got a lot of songs in the works that I am really in love in with right now. The album is ready but it's all about timing. I don't want to rush anything. I want to build a core fan base and continue to grow with them.

CL: Did you work with any big names on the album?

KL: I have a few secret gems on there but it's mainly me on there.  I don't want to work with people just because they have a hot name. It has to make sense.

CL: How does it feel to be selected as one of XXL magazine's "Hip Hop Freshman class"?

KL: It feels great. When I look at the magazine, I see artists I respect so they must be doing something to get that recognition. I'm very appreciative. 

CL: How do you feel about the new age West Coast rappers?

KL: The new rappers? It's a good look because we are taking it another notch higher. People can't classify our sound anymore as just one sound. We just not West Coast boom boom clap...we still have that-it will never leave us but we offer more. It's time to elevate it and tell the stories of our generation. 

CL: How was it working on Detox with Dr. Dre?

KL: It's incredible because it steps your game up as an artist. It was an incredible album before I got there. When you go in the studio with him and you hear that type of material-it lets you know where you should be and how hard you should work. Dre is a perfectionist so he is just elevating my sound. 


Check some of the artwork and exhibits at the event. Pictures taken by Nocturnal Charm, Brandon Young, and yours truly. Gotta shout out Gypsy Soul for the Kendrick Lamar Interview. Mad love!

Exclusive Ryan Leslie Interview

Producer, singer, rapper, songwriter Ryan Leslie is preparing for his third album, Les Is More, which hits stores 4th of July. I caught up with R Les while he was in DC last Friday for The Park Unplugged concert series given by Beny Blaq Entertainment. He performed some of his hits, collaborations and some new material off the new album. Check it out!

Chanel Laren: Tell me about the new album, Les Is More.

Ryan Leslie: The title illustrates that people that know me as R Les and feel like they know me from the last albums, should expect more from me. It's predominantly a rap album but I'll still be singing on it. I've already released some records online, Beautiful Lie, Maybach & Diamonds and Joan of Arc. Les Is More is probably the realest album that I've ever written. This is the most honest I've ever been. I'm not sugarcoating anything. It's really from the heart. I'm releasing it on 4th of July to celebrate my independence.

CL: How has the transition been from having a major record deal to now being independent?

RL: I was with a major label for seven years. The most incredible part about being independent is freedom of creativity and that's from a musical and visual standpoint. From every creative expression that I wanted to have in terms of messaging, I'm able to do with this album. That's why this album is a rap album.

CL: What's your favorite thing to do...record, perform, write songs, or produce?

RL: I love performing, that's what I write and produce for what I just did at The Park.

CL: Do you think you get the recognition you deserve as a triple threat?

RL: I think people earn the respect that they get. At the point and time that I contribute something that is of the magnitude that deserves more respect, I feel like I'll get more respect. I'm just worried about creating and putting together the art that is going to be the best representation of what I can contribute artistically. In the meantime, I'm going to just do me and give it all that I've got.

CL: Are you touring when Les Is More drops?

RL: I'll be doing a European tour. I'm actually touring Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, Canada, and South America, and then I'm coming back to the U.S. You'll see me again when I'm actually premiering the album.

*Huge thank you goes out to BBE for setting up the interview. Make sure yall check out their site so you can be at next event  Click Here