New Video: Ciara ft. Young Jeezy - Never Ever
Here's what happens when he liked it but he didn't put a ring on it... In the clip for Ciara's second official single from Fantasy Ride, she's suddenly swingin a lot more mane and gives homie the boot in pursuit of greener pastures, a message to women that it's cool to wait, but not cool to wait forever. The first half of the video seems like more of Ci-ci's self-realization that she's still sexy and she's still got it - it's cool, we realize it too! After her slightly over-the-top last video, I'm enjoying the simplicity of this one, it says everything Ciara needs to say to prove that she's still on the rise.
On a sidenote: Has Monica's star-power been reduced to simple video cameo's? Is it me or is that ALL she's been doing lately since her single Still Standing tanked?
Mariah Carey Releases "The Ballads"
Artist: Mariah Carey
Album: The Ballads
Released: 1.20.09 (US)
1. Hero (2009 Version)
2. One Sweet Day (featuring Boyz II Men)
3. Vision of Love
4. Without You
5. Can't Let Go
6. Love Takes Time
7. I'll Be There (MTV Unplugged Version - featuring Trey Lorenz)
8. Thank God I Found You (Make It Last Remix - featuring Joe & Nas)
9. Endless Love (featuring Luther Vandross)
10. I Still Believe
11. My All
12. The Roof
13. When You Believe (Single Version - featuring Whitney Houston)
14. Anytime You Need a Friend
15. Always Be My Baby
16. Dreamlover
17. How Much (featuring Usher)
18. Reflections (Care Enough)
19. The Roof (Mobb Deep Extended Version) (iTunes Bonus Track)
20. Always Be My Baby (Mr. Dupri Mix featuring Da Brat and Xscape) (iTunes Bonus Track)
The REAL Biggest Boss... 50 Cent or Rick Ross?
Earlier this week a Rick Ross track Mafia Music leaked to the net including a mention (not sure if it was an actual diss) of 50 Cent's situation involving the burning of his baby mother's house last year. Well that one line, whether subliminal or not has earned the self-claimed "biggest boss" an entire diss track from 50 Cent. With a title like Try Me, you'd think that 50 was issuing a warning statement... but he goes full BLAST on "Officer Ricky" Check out Mafia Music and Try Me and see how hip-hop's latest beef erupts!
EDITED: Video: Jazmine Sullivan - Lions, Tigers & Bears
Green screen videos seem to be, once again, an increasing trend. I mean, for a minute there I thought T-Pain was gonna pop up outta nowhere! Anyway, I'm diggin this one a little more than the clip for Bust Your Windows but not by much. Visually, it's vivid, but come on... what really does it say?!!? First of all, can we get my girl some better threads? Why does it look like her stylist is working on a really short leash?? Then the dress AND the leather jacket? Even Tyra makes the Top Models lose all that excess clothing at panel. And someone PLEASE kill that damn Exxon tiger!! This truly is one of my favorite songs by her. The song just says sooo much in such a creative and unique way but her videos continually disappoint me...
Video Clip: Raheem Devaughn - 4-Letter Word
I'm diggin' this raw, yet creative clip put together by Raheem Devaughn for Four-Letter Word, a track off his sophomore album, Love Behind The Melody. This doesn't look like an official video, but Raheem is the kind of artist that's in touch with his fans enough to do something special like this, and we appreciate him for it. Fellas, this might be that joint to secure your spot for Valentine's Day. If Cupid usually brings you a cold front, take your pick from Raheem's variety of four-letter words featured in this clip. It might help you cuddle up with something warm this year... Pay special attention to the very end, and listen to the purity of Raheem's voice sans the music. Now THAT'S what I call talent!!
New Video: Bow Wow ft. JD - Rock The Mic
Let's cut to the chase: I don't like Bow Wow, you know this! BUT, this song is better than some of his recent stuff. I'm not sayin' it's a hit, but it's better
Maybe reconnecting with Jermaine Dupri is exactly what Bow Wow needed to get his game together. With that being said though, is anyone else questioning who wrote these lyrics?
Video: GS Boyz - Stanky Legg
MINDSTREAM TOPIC: Are you ready to get MARRIED?
Contrary to popular belief, kneeling down on one knee with a diamond ring in a velvet box does not make a person ready to get married. In recent years, divorce rates have skyrocketed and marriages have failed because many people were simply not ready to make the commitment. With Valentine's Day coming up, some of you may be contemplating popping the big question, or maybe you already have and you're having second thoughts. Here's some musical inspiration to help you think things through and see the big picture, then ask yourself, are you ready to get married? (covered in the 1.28.09 Sound-Savvy Report on Mindstream Radio)
5. When it’s really love, it won't be about the money, the flashy lifestyle or any amount of material wealth. You gotta know that if the bank runs low, your baby’s still gonna be there holdin you down. Marriage vows say for richer or for poorer. That’s why the #5 song is the new leaked track from Jay-Z, When The Money Goes from the forthcoming Blueprint 3 album.
4. Love is about doing things together, sharing the good times and makin it through the hard times. Regardless of what happens or what people say, marriage is about getting through it all together. On their debut album, the brothers of Day 26 asked the question, Are We In This Together?
3. How do you know you’re in love? When your every waking thought is of that special someone, that’s a sure sign that you’re in love. Some say it's like a drug or a bad habit, Vivian Green calls it being a Fanatic, and that’s the #3 song.
2. How do you know you’re ready for love? When you’re not just expecting your partner to be there for you, but you’re also expecting to be right there for your partner. The #2 joint reminds us that it’s not just about taking support, it’s about giving support too. Some of the strongest words you can say to the one you love were brought to us by SWV: "love will be Right Here".
1. Finally you’ve gotta know it’s love. Love is about accepting the good and the bad of the other person, overlooking the flaws for the beauty of the person inside. No amount of distance, or separation, and no dissension can tear apart the solid bond that love creates. No one puts that feeling into words better than Kelly Rowland with her song This Is Love from her sophomore album Ms. Kelly.Kelly Clarkson's New Vid and Idol Chat HERE TONIGHT!
Be HERE on Sound-Savvy tonight for American Idol Chat Live during the show to discuss your thoughts on the contestants! Chat will take place in the C-Box in the top right corner Sound-Savvy. Kelly Clarkson’s new single - “My Life Would Suck Without You” - is currently the No 1. most added at Top 40 and Hot AC and she currently holds the No. 1 position on iTunes Singles chart.
Now the American Idol winner is teaming up with AT&T to debut a sneak peek of the song’s highly-anticipated music video during a commercial break of AMERICAN IDOL on Wednesday, Jan. 28th (8 p.m. EST/7 p.m. CT)! And join Sound-Savvy in the C-Box above to discuss the video!
After the preview, fans can watch the full-length video for 24 hours on the following AT&T platforms:
· AT&T wireless customers can get a link to watch on their mobile phones by texting “KELLY” to 8008.
· AT&T U-Verse customers can access it through their Video On Demand (VOD) menu
· All fans can watch it online at www.att.net
Clarkson fans can also purchase ringtones of the new track or of her other popular songs through the AT&T MEdia mall, accessible directly from their handsets or online (www.att.com/mediamall).
Check out AT&T Flickr photostream for a picture of Kelly: http://www.flickr.com/photos/New Music from Jay-Z: When The Money Goes
Lil' Wayne Debut PERFORMANCE of 'Prom Queen' TONIGHT!
Lil' Wayne Exclusive from AT&T
Did you know Lil’ Wayne is the most popular music artist on Facebook - 1.3 million fans and counting ? Now, he’s teaming up with AT&T to release his new single via the social network for the very first time!
Don’t miss Lil Wayne’s live, world-debut performance of his highly-anticipated new single, “Prom Queen,” from his upcoming new album “Rebirth,” live on Facebook. The special streaming video event from a concert in San Diego is scheduled for 12:40 a.m. EST on Wed., 1/28 (9:40 p.m. PST on Tues. 1/27) on the AT&T Mobile Music page on Facebook (www.facebook.com/mobilemusic)
After the show, AT&T customers can buy the exclusive ringtone by texting “Wayne” to 7317 or by purchasing it through the AT&T Media Mall from their handsets or online (www.att.com/mediamall). AT&T customers can also download the full track by texting “Wayne” to 7299 following the performance. Lil Wayne ringtones were the most downloaded ringtones in 2008, according to AT&T sales records.
You can listen to Prom Queen here:
New Chrisette Michele: Epiphany
If you haven't done so already, go ahead and add Chrisette Michele's sophomore album to your "Most Anticipated Releases for 2009" list. Check out Epiphany, the debut single from that forthcoming project which hasn't yet been titled. It's written by Ne-yo and Chrisette's vocals are stunning. If you don't have her debut album (I Am), it's definitely one to pick up. Can't wait to hear the rest!! Check this out and listen to a truly talented singer...Tuesday Morning Humor: DROP KICK ME JESUS!
Oh someone please bring me a ventilator, I'm laughin so hard I can't breathe!! Shouts to MzPurp for puttin a brutha on to Drop Kick Me Jesus. Lord knows I love me some Jesus, but this has got to be the one of the funniest songs I've ever heard. Oh please take a listen, and laugh wit me...
Video: Leona Lewis - I Will Be
Don't say I didn't warn you about the set of pipes on this girl! I Will Be is the third US Single from her debut album Spirit released last year in the states. In this clip she turns up the vocals as well as the drama, but that voice is just a little too sweet for her to make a believable bad girl. In fact, I don't really see how the video makes any sense with the story of the song. Stick to singin Leona... acting is NOT your ministry...
Yet and still, Spirit was one of the best female pop releases of last year, so if you ain't got it, you're slippin!! Read the review here!
Kanye= 'Martin Louis The King Jr.'?
"Address me as such..."
Now here's a guy that's full of himself... Is he really serious about making a parallel between his accomplishments with an overpriced clothing company (in the midst of a worldwide economic recession) and the accomplishments of the greatest civil rights leader the world has ever known? Your thoughts?
New Music: Mashonda feat. Eve - Dirty Laundry
Dirty Laundry feat Eve - Mashonda
Album Review: Heather Headley - Audience of One
Artist: Heather HeadleyAlbum: Audience of One
Release Date: 1.13.06
I can recall going to see Heather Headley in concert back in 2006 with Anthony Hamilton at Ovens Auditorium in
Of the album’s 10 tracks, there were only about 3 that really stood out. Smokie Norful joins Headley on a cover of Lionel Richie’s gospel classic Jesus Is Love. Norful and the choir really make the song and help Heather to shine a little more on this track, making it a pretty nice remake. For inspiration, I recommend I Wish, with its message of appreciation for the good and bad times in life. I love this song because it sounds like an open letter from a parent to a child. My favorite track on the album, however, is Here I Am to Worship, for its simplicity, and it’s actually one of the few songs on the album that stirs the spirit. The message is one of surrender:
“Here I am to worship, here I am to bow down, here I am to say that you’re my God.”
Sorry to disappoint all Heather Headley’s fans (actually I'm not), but I wouldn’t recommend this album. It just doesn’t come through as a gospel album should and its delivery leaves much to be desired. A friend of mine said “She sings as if she’s still in the Lion King”, and I must say I agree. Broadway musicals are about the big pretty vocals, not so much the soul of the story. So as much as I hate to say it, this audience of one isn’t feeling Audience of One…
Sound-Savvy rates Heather Headley's Audience of One with 2 out of 5 platinum headphones.
-Mack-
Monday Motivation Muzik: Bad Boy Family - You
"I lift you up and praise your name, you who gave me strength to see another day, when I was lost you helped me find my way, and when it seems I can't face another day, that's when I call on YOU..."
You - Hezekiah Walker, Faith Evans, 112, Carl Thomas, Mario Winans, Thelma Guyton, Asia & Ashley, Tammy Ruggeri
Let's face it... life ain't always easy. In fact, sometimes it can be downright unbearable. If you believe, then you know there's always a way. As you start your week, remember that even the most impossible situations are all possible for the man upstairs. Calling on Him may not always be the most popular course of action, but I guarantee it's the right one, and He'll be there every time, even when your closest friends can't be found. Only He can give you the strength you need to move that mountain...
Jamie Foxx feat. Busta Rhymes, Weezy, & T-Pain - Blame It (Remix)
Jamie Foxx is back on the road to the top of the charts. If you have Intuition, then you already know that Blame It is one of the hottest tracks on the album. Well it just got an upgrade! Busta Rhymes and Lil Wayne have come together with Foxx and Pain to seriously hype this remix, and it's definitely worth it. First party anthem of '09 right here!
Blame It On The Alcohol Remix - Jamie Foxx feat. T-Pain, Busta Rhymes, and Lil Wayne
New Music: Lil Wayne - Prom Queen
Video: Keyshia Cole - You Complete Me
The thing I like most about Keyshia Cole's A Different Me album is her transformation. She's really matured in her look, her sound and her content. You Complete Me is the second single from her latest project and it shows a happier Keyshia, with a focus on love and the joy love can bring. Initially, I wasn't feeling the song because vocally it does sound like a lot of her other work, but the lyrics come from a new space, a more personal space. I really hope Keyshia's fans stick through this transition and stay by her side; it's refreshing to see that she's not dwelling on the pain anymore and the whole album really projects a happier woman. I've got a feeling we still haven't seen the best of Keyshia Cole yet.
Beyonce's Performance of 'At Last'
Aight, so if you read Sound-Savvy on a regular, you'll know that I DO like Beyonce, I'm just not her biggest fan, but I treat her no differently than everyone else - when she's right I give her props, when she's wrong, I say what I feel. In this case, Beyonce is VERY RIGHT... A lot of people are giving her flack saying she's overzealous and "thirsty" for wanting so badly to perform at the inauguration... so what?? If you were currently the biggest name in music (not really up for debate) and had this opportunity, the opportunity of a lifetime, can you honestly say you wouldn't jump at the chance? My parents always taught me "If you want something, go get it" So I don't see anything wrong with it, especially since she delivered such an amazing and stirring performance of At Last. I don't think there was a dry eye in the country watching this; it literally gave me chills. So while I may not agree with all of Beyonce's statements, my hat goes off to her for this one, it was a privilege well-deserved and an honor best bestowed.
Download: Will-I-Am's "America's Song"
Check out Will.I.Am's new patriotic anthem featuring the voices of Faith Hill, Seal, Mary J. Blige and Bono. This song is stunning and symbolizes unity, hope, resilience, and the dreams of our forefathers fulfilled at the culmination of this great election. Every element of the song sticks out from the symphonic backing to the powerful vocals. You may have heard it on Oprah, but in case you missed it, check out Will.I.Am's dedication to our nation and our 44th President, America's Song and download the MP3 absolutely free!Americas Song Ft. Faith Hill, Seal, Bono, & Mary J. Blige - Will.I.Am
Click here to download this amazing song absolutely free
New Music: Jay-Z - My President Is Black Remix
Inauguration Day is here and EVERYONE is celebrating including Jay-Z with his own mix to Jeezy's anthem My President Is Black. Check it out...
New Kelly Clarkson: My Life Would Suck Without You
At long last, the leader of the American Idol pack is back on her way to the top of the charts. Announcing her upcoming 4th studio album, All I Ever Wanted, Kelly Clarkson returns with the album's first single: My Life Would Suck Without You. On her last album, Kelly ditched a lot of her pop sound for a heavier rock sound and darker vibe. With Clive Davis back on the boards, it sounds like Kelly is back to her pop roots; this track is very reminiscent of her earlier smash Since You've Been Gone. I'm anxious to hear her new project, which hits stores March 17th. Stay tuned!!President Barack Obama's Inaugural Address
I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors. I thank President Bush for his service to our nation, as well as the generosity and cooperation he has shown throughout this transition.
Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential oath. The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms. At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because We the People have remained faithful to the ideals of our forbearers, and true to our founding documents.
So it has been. So it must be with this generation of Americans.
That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood. Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age. Homes have been lost; jobs shed; businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly; our schools fail too many; and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.
These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics. Less measurable but no less profound is a sapping of confidence across our land - a nagging fear that America's decline is inevitable, and that the next generation must lower its sights.
Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America - they will be met.
On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.
On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.
We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.
In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given. It must be earned. Our journey has never been one of short-cuts or settling for less. It has not been the path for the faint-hearted - for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame. Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things - some celebrated but more often men and women obscure in their labor, who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom.
For us, they packed up their few worldly possessions and traveled across oceans in search of a new life.
For us, they toiled in sweatshops and settled the West; endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth.
For us, they fought and died, in places like Concord and Gettysburg; Normandy and Khe Sahn.
Time and again these men and women struggled and sacrificed and worked till their hands were raw so that we might live a better life. They saw America as bigger than the sum of our individual ambitions; greater than all the differences of birth or wealth or faction.
This is the journey we continue today. We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on Earth. Our workers are no less productive than when this crisis began. Our minds are no less inventive, our goods and services no less needed than they were last week or last month or last year. Our capacity remains undiminished. But our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions - that time has surely passed. Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.
For everywhere we look, there is work to be done. The state of the economy calls for action, bold and swift, and we will act - not only to create new jobs, but to lay a new foundation for growth. We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together. We will restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality and lower its cost. We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age. All this we can do. And all this we will do.
Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions - who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short. For they have forgotten what this country has already done; what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage.
What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them - that the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long no longer apply. The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works - whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified. Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward. Where the answer is no, programs will end.. And those of us who manage the public's dollars will be held to account - to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day - because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government.
Nor is the question before us whether the market is a force for good or ill. Its power to generate wealth and expand freedom is unmatched, but this crisis has reminded us that without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control - and that a nation cannot prosper long when it favors only the prosperous. The success of our economy has always depended not just on the size of our Gross Domestic Product, but on the reach of our prosperity; on our ability to extend opportunity to every willing heart - not out of charity, but because it is the surest route to our common good.
As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals. Our Founding Fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations. Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake. And so to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more.
Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with sturdy alliances and enduring convictions. They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please. Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use; our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.
We are the keepers of this legacy. Guided by these principles once more, we can meet those new threats that demand even greater effort - even greater cooperation and understanding between nations. We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people, and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan. With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet. We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken; you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you.
For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus - and non-believers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace.
To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect. To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West - know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.
To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds. And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to suffering outside our borders; nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it.
As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains. They have something to tell us today, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages. We honor them not only because they are guardians of our liberty, but because they embody the spirit of service; a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves. And yet, at this moment - a moment that will define a generation - it is precisely this spirit that must inhabit us all.
For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies. It is the kindness to take in a stranger when the levees break, the selflessness of workers who would rather cut their hours than see a friend lose their job which sees us through our darkest hours. It is the firefighter' s courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate.
Our challenges may be new. The instruments with which we meet them may be new. But those values upon which our success depends - hard work and honesty, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism - these things are old. These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history. What is demanded then is a return to these truths. What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility - a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation, and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task.
This is the price and the promise of citizenship.
This is the source of our confidence - the knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny.
This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed - why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent mall, and why a man whose father less than sixty years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.
So let us mark this day with remembrance, of who we are and how far we have traveled. In the year of America's birth, in the coldest of months, a small band of patriots huddled by dying campfires on the shores of an icy river. The capital was abandoned. The enemy was advancing. The snow was stained with blood. At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people:
"Let it be told to the future world…that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive…that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet [it]."
America. In the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words. With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come. Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations.
Video: John Legend - Everybody Knows
Mack: Just when I started wondering where John Legend was with a followup to Green Light, here's the video for Everybody Knows, the second single from Legend's Evolver album. Legend is again tugging at the heart strings with a clip about our interactions and experiences. Check this joint, let me know what ya think...
Video: J. Holiday - It’s Yours
Mack: Check out the clip for J. Holiday's new single It's Yours, from his forthcoming sophomore album, Round 2. Round 2 is set to hit stores next month, and folks, I've heard enough cuts from it to know that it's gonna be an amazing album from the DC native. I'm diggin the style in this video, very grown man. Check it out.
J. Holiday - It's Yours
J. Holiday | MySpace Video
Marques Houston feat. Fabolous - Do For You
Do For You (Prod. by Stargate) ft. Fabolous - Marques Houston
Mack: Again, Marques Houston releases a pretty nice single from an upcoming album. My problem is the lack of follow through with content on the album. His previous projects have all been on the same level as Ray J. in my opinion: good singles, sucks on everything else. Do For You is from his upcoming 4th solo album, simply titled Mr. Houston. Well Mr. Houston, I hope this album is better than some of your earlier disappointments.
New Video: Q-Tip - ManWomanBoogie
Here's the new video for Manwomanboogie, the third single from Q-Tip's latest album, The Renaissance. Looks a bit low-budget, but brings great representation to the song. I still feel that The Renaissance was one of the most underrated albums of '08 and I recommend this joint to hip-hop heads. What u think of this video?
Video: Young Jeezy feat. Nas - My President Is Black
My President is black...
Although I won't be in my hometown for this historic occasion, I can already hear this song resonating through every hood and block of our nation's capitol. Young Jeezy and Nas pulled together a hip-hop star lineup in this clip for My President is Black, Jeezy's prophetic tribute to our nation's 44th President who, just 3 days from now, will take his place as leader of our nation. This video embodies the strong message in Obama's campaign: Unity for change. Shouts to you Jeezy, and if our paths ever cross I owe you dap for this one homie, you representin' big!!
Album Cover: India.Arie - Testimony: Vol. 2 Love & Politics
Plies - Gotta Be
So I guess this video symbolizes that Plies has been promoted from a goon to a Goon's Guardian Angel, huh? In this promo clip for Gotta Be, Plies' all white attire and random good deeds show him as more of a fairy Godfather, albeit a racist, potty-mouthed, gold-grilled fairy Godfather. Gotta Be is from Plies' third album, Da REAList, in stores now. Next official video on deck: Want It, Need It featuring Ashanti - now THAT may be worth the 4 minutes...
Remembering Aaliyah: Happy 30th Birthday Babygirl!
If she were still here, Aaliyah would have been celebrating her 30th birthday today. Talented in music and style, Aaliyah Dana Haughton left the earth much too soon with loads of potential unrealized. During her short career of just 7 years, Aaliyah released 3 albums and starred in two major motion pictures. And then, all of a sudden she was taken away...
New Music From Chris J. - The Balcony
Ladies, this one is especially for you. The Balcony is the debut single from Big Gates recording artist Chris J. He's best known for his vocals on Plies' hit song Put It On Ya which is currently blazin' the airwaves. Chris J. is also presently the Savvy Spotlight artist, and you can check out his exclusive interview with Sound-Savvy by clicking here and get info on his upcoming debut album, Secrets. The Balcony is especially for the uninhibited lovers, those who like to keep the romance exciting and don't mind taking a few risks to satisfy each other and keep the bedroom booming. Kinda makes me wish I had a balcony...Busta Rhymes, Mary J. Blige, Jamie Foxx, and Common - Decision
New Music: Bow Wow feat Johnta Austin - You Can Get It All
I wonder if JD is still writing Bow Wow's rhymes? LOL... Aight I'mma stop pickin' on the lil puppy dog. I'm diggin' the sample of TLC's Baby, Baby Baby, and Johnta's vocals but nothing else about this joint. I predict that Bow Wow will have a reality show some time within the next year since I doubt any one will really be checkin for him on the music tip. If anyone cares, this will be on New Jack City 2, (no there's not another movie... that's his album title). I'm not hatin' on Bow Wow, but he's all talk... his music sucks! Maybe he'll switch to shoes... or video games... or better yet, maybe he'll become a BLOGGER!!! haaaaaaaaaahahahahahaha....Busta Rhymes feat. T-Pain - Hustler's Anthem 2009
Busta Rhymes is back with his 8th (count 'em) studio album, and this is the latest cut off the album. I'm diggin this joint! T-Pain is makin everything hot these days. It sounds like Busta's goin back to that lighthearted fun style that made him a fan favorite in the late 90's. I might have to check for this album. The album, Back on my B.S. is due out in March...
Throwback Thursday: Your First Album
It's often said that you never forget your first... Somehow, the mind is forever stamped with fond memories of those initial experiences and decades later, you can still recall it almost as vividly as that first time. So I figured, what better way to kick off the first edition of Throwback Thursdays than with a trip back in time to my first album. When I was younger, my mom's best friend (thanks Ms. Denise for making me Sound-Savvy at an early age...) used to dub (not burn, DUB!) albums on cassette tapes for me (don't tell the RIAA!!). I had it ALL... stuff by Hi-Five, Jodeci, the first TLC album, the Boomerang Soundtrack (YES!!) and I would play it all from my lil Sony Walkman (until it got stolen... WITH my Bobby Brown Humpin Around tape in it... pissed was I).
