an
apology
On
this page I wrote that Bobby Martin had died. Indeed he had, although the
Bobby Martin concerned was a member of the Martiniques and not the picture
of Bobby Eli that I added, like the idiot I can be from time to time! My
apologies to Bobby Eli, who I know is a site visitor. Really sorry my friend
for any upset I may have caused. Off to sit in the corner with a dunces
hat on now!!
marvin
dvd hits the streets
This
Marvin Gaye DVD is absolutely lovely. Something about the Revolver Group,
who issue these things, is they seem to know how to capture certain essential
moments in these artists careers. They have a Stevie Wonder DVD on hold
right now, that is another masterpiece. The one real sadness, about this
DVD, is the footage of Marvin with Tammi Terrell, as it was taken 3 years
before her passing. There are some lovely moments, interspersed with with
television interviews, that are simply lovely to delve into visually. There
was something very melancholic about the man. Almost humbling himself before
the audience or interviewer. He gives credit to his late brother Frankie
for his Vietnam reflections, respectfully regarding the 'What's Going On'
sessions. Shame that the man could still be within our midst, however, as
he descibed himself, he ws a 'troubled man'. A great DVD. Lovely footage
(especially the Tammi Terrell material...loved the outfit, Tammi). Check
Amazon for a copy. Great birthday present for anyone, who has the slightest
interest in this convaluted genre.
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of the page
sly
stone is back!
Sly
Stone is making a comeback. Here is part of an e-mail I received from his
younger sister:
'Since
the 2006 Grammies, where Sly reappeared in the public eye, people have been
ignited and intrigued by Sly and his new music. Where is he going? What
new music is he creating? Will he return with the Family Stone?
If you
would like to see what Sly Stone is REALLY up to, you can check out his
new OFFICIAL website at http://www.phattadatta.com. This site has the latest
news and goings-on for Sly and the Family Stone'.
Now
that is news. Below is his official website for further information.
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of the page
angela
bofill is unwell
I
received in this disturbing news via Ronn Matlock today:
The
'Angel of the Night,' singer Angela Bofill is paralyzed on her left side
following a stroke suffered on Jan. 10, her manager Rich Engel told us.
Bofill is convalescing is at Sutter Hospital in Santa Rosa, CA.
Bofill,
51, was released from intensive care on Sunday (Jan. 15) and will require
speech and physical therapy, Engel said. 'A benefit concert has been organized
to pay her hospital bills, as Bofill did not carry health insurance. The
show, planned by Engel along with N.Y. radio stations Kiss FM, and CD 101.9,
will be held on March 11th at the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood,
N.J. Similar events are being planned for Detroit and Los Angeles, Engel
said. We spoke with David Nathan of the R & B Foundation, who informed
us that Bofill may just qualify for sorely need aid aid from the organization.
He says that the wheels are grinding and if all goes well, she will receive
assistance with medical bills ASAP.'
Meanwhile,
well wishes and donations from fans should be sent to Live At Night, P.O.
Box 1140, Maplewood, N.J. 07040. Engel asks that checks be made payable
directly to 'Angela Bofill'.
I
am sure we all wish her well.
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of the page
sad
news regarding michael brecker...maybe someone out there?
Please
check this link regarding Michael Brecker's state of health:
http://www.michaelbrecker.com/news/susanLetter.html
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of the page
news
on Brenda Russell
OPRAH
WINFREY PRESENTS ‘THE COLOUR PURPLE’
Dome
Records artist Brenda Russell is thrilled that Oprah Winfrey has now become
the leading producer of the Broadway run of Brenda’s new musical version
of The Colour Purple.
Music
and lyrics for the show are written by Brenda with Allee Willis and Stephen
Bray, and the show opens at the Broadway Theatre on December 1.
One
of the show’s key songs “What About Love?” is being recorded
as a duet by Jill Scott and Patti Labelle.
Further
information: Santosh Robinson 020 8748 4499
Santosh@domerecords.co.uk
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of the page
Emmett
North Jnr
'Smooth
jazz / r & b guitarist/singer/recording artist 'Emmett North Jr.' seeking
representation, manager and booking agent, he can travel and has performed
exstensively in many cities in the UK., Helsinki, Finland,Belgium, Holland
and Palermo,Sicily as a solo performer. His released recordings are five
albums and three maxi's. 'Emmett' is also former guitarist for Barry White,
Isaac Hayes, Chuck Berry and many others. You can contact him,hear music
samples, see bio, video clips and photos at: (www.interjazz.com/emmettnorthjr.),
email him at: (northstarmusicco@earthlink.net),
will perform jazz fest,jazz / r & b clubs, colleges and corporate affairs.
Please reply if you can be of any assistance, sincerely & musicallly,
spokesperson Valery Meyer for 'Emmett North Jr.' and staff.
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of the page
new
Ray Charles DVD
What
is there not to like about Ray Charles? His gentle misdemeanour was always
quite captivating and is beautifully highlighted by this fine double DVD
set. What the viewer, actually, gets are Brother Ray's 3 visits, guesting
on the Dick Cavett Show, broadcast in the early Seventies. The whole shows
are included, thus a couple of times you have watch a couple of other guests,
however, Ray takes the lions share of the proceedings. Dick Cavett and Ray
had an obvious chemistry going on, which is highly amusing at times, especially
when Cavett duets with the genius. Dick has a terrible voice, a fact that
he plays on and things become highly amusing. Ray works his way through
'Georgia On My Mind', 'Born To Lose' and 'I Can't Stop Loving You' amongst
others. Cavett reminisces about his friendship with Ray at the end of this
set, quite touchingly. Ray is frank about his life and talks about his drug
addition, his poor childhood, amongst other topics. A very nice set that
is accompanied by a glossy booklet. Now with Christmas only a couple of
months away........
http://www.shoutfactory.com/
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of the page
more
new orleans / hurricane katrina - a new charity release
While
not initially conceived as a benefit recording, in the time since the tracks
for I Believe to My Soul were recorded in June of 2005, tremendous devastation
has struck the U.S. Gulf Coast -home of two of the featured artists on I
Believe to My Soul, Irma Thomas and Allen Toussaint. In Starbucks Company-operated
locations in the U.S. and Canada, Starbucks Hear Music, Rhino and Work Song
and will donate $10 of the purchase price of every CD sold to aid in the
region's recovery. In all other retail channels in the U.S. and Canada,
Starbucks Hear Music and Rhino and Work Song will donate $3 of the purchase
price of every CD sold. Donations will be made to the American Red Cross
and the Canadian Red Cross (according to the country in which the CD was
purchased) to provide support for those affected by Hurricane Katrina. This
donation will continue for the lifetime of the CD
and is in addition to Starbucks Coffee Company's long-term relief and recovery
efforts for victims of Hurricane Katrina.
As
part of its long-term commitment to aid the relief and recovery efforts
following Hurricane Katrina, Starbucks Coffee Company made an initial commitment
of $5 million over five years to impacted U.S. Gulf Coast communities. The
Company has designated the American Red Cross as the recipient of its initial
$1 million contribution. In addition to its financial commitment, Starbucks
is working closely with the American Red Cross relief effort, as well as
Emergency Operations Centers and Federal Emergency Management Agency in
the impacted areas. To date, the Company has donated more than 30,000 pounds
of ground coffee; 235,000 bottles of EthosTM Water; and 9,600 bottled TazoR
drinks; and 44,000 pastries to support them in their endeavors.
Thanks
To Andrew Warren @ Special Ops Media
http://www.rhino.com/flashcards/joehenry/
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of the page
new
orleans / hurricane katrina / help!
I
don't normally post e-mails at the site, but I am making an exception in
this case.
'I
am DESPERATELY trying to find friends that hopefully evacuated New Orleans
before Hurricane Katrina. They are the Aunt-in-law, cousin-in-law, etc.,
of Marlon Jackson. If you can possibly get in touch with him, would you
PLEASE find out if he knows anything about the safety and whereabouts of
Patricia and Al Parker, Alva and Ken and, most of all, dear Mrs. Virginia
Johnson. PLEASE help me to get some news of / to them. I don't have to be
in direct contact with Marlon. Just want info or want this passed on to
any of these people to telephone me at 281-293-7576 or e-mail Linda@Moorehead.com.
If Marlon needs any verification of authenticity, I have pictures of he
and wife with Mrs. Virginia in her Ferncrest Manor nursing home room in
New Orleans that I copied and made larger and put on Mrs. V's wall so she
could see them better. My mother was her roommate and we love all of this
family of wonderful people. Thank you VERY much for any help. Linda Moorehead'
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of the page
don-e
signs to dome records
After
a long absence from recording as a solo artist, one of the UK's most talented
urban artists DON-E has signed a deal with Dome to release his new self-produced
album 'Try This'.
The South London-based artist-producer, signed to Island in the Nineties,
has guest vocals from Omar on "No Reason", with Midlands newcomer
Lornette Ford duetting on the first single "Slow!" "All We
Need" features a cameo from UK rapper Grim.
A hidden bonus track "UK Black" pays homage to the many UK artists
who have made their mark from the Seventies to the present day.
In recent years Don, who owns his own studio in South London, has been focussing
primarily on writing and producing with such artists as Shaun Escoffrey,
Mica Paris, Lynden David Hall, Beverley Knight, Grace Jones, Avani and Rahsaan
Patterson.
He recently returned from a US tour guesting with Omar and has also played
a number of dates with Grace Jones.
Dome release the new album on October 3, and there will be live dates to
accompany the release.
Further information: SANTOSH ROBINSON
Santosh@domerecords.co.uk
020 8748 4499
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of the page
eddie
kendricks artwork
There's
going to be a free exhibit of original artwork at The Forest Lawn Museum
in Glendale, California. One of the pieces is the original artwork from
one of the Eddie Kendricks's album covers. The exhibit runs from July 31st
to October 9th.
Bonnie
Quintanilla
Skilset Communications
818.681.5777
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of the page
sad
news regarding norman whitfield
Motown
producer sentenced on tax violation in L.A.
LOS
ANGELES, July 18 (Reuters) - Leading Motown Records producer Norman Whitfield,
who co-wrote such R&B classics as "I Heard It Through the Grapevine,"
was sentenced on Monday to six months of home detention for failure to file
U.S. income tax returns.
Whitfield admitted in a guilty plea in January that he had deliberately
neglected to report to the Internal Revenue Service more than $4 million
in songwriting royalties he earned from 1995 through 1999.
He originally was charged with five counts of willful failure to file an
income tax return, a misdemeanor that carries up to a year in prison.
But Whitfield pleaded guilty to a single count under an agreement with federal
prosecutors and made restitution on the $956,000 in taxes he owed the government,
according to Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Kwan.
U.S. District Judge Stephen Wilson agreed to allow the 65-year-old songwriter
to serve his six months of incarceration under home confinement, rather
than in prison, after doctors confirmed that Whitfield suffered from a kidney
ailment and other health problems, Kwan said.
Whitfield will be placed on probation for a year after his home detention
is completed.
The Grammy-winning hit-maker was inducted last year into the Songwriters
Hall of Fame along with lyricist Barrett Strong, his longtime collaborator
at Motown.
The New York-born Whitfield, who ended up in Detroit as a teenager in the
1960s after his father's car broke down there, is widely credited as an
architect of the Motown Sound and pioneer of the sub-genre of R&B that
came to be known as "psychedelic soul."
A member of Motown founder Berry Gordy's "quality control department,"
which decided which songs the label released, Whitfield served as the principal
producer for The Temptations from 1966 until 1974.
He co-wrote and produced such hits "Ain't Too Proud to Beg," "Cloud
Nine," "I Can't Get Next to You" and "Just My Imagination
(Running Away With Me)."
But he is perhaps best known for his work with Strong on "I Heard It
Through the Grapevine," which was first released by Gladys Knight &
the Pips before Marvin Gaye turned it into a blockbuster hit for Motown
in December 1968.
Whitfield left Motown in 1975 to form his own label, Whitfield Records,
which scored a smash hit with Rose Royce's "Car Wash," the title
song to the 1976 film that featured Richard Pryor and the Pointer Sisters.
Reporting
by Steve Gorman, editing by Stacey Joyce
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of the page
stevie
wonder in an exclusive interview in uncut magazine
In
a world exclusive interview he talks publicly for the first time in a decade
about his stint as Motown's boy genius, his groundbreaking 70s albums and
his superb comeback LP.
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of the page
angela
johnson has a new album
New
York singer-songwriter-producer ANGELA JOHNSON returns to the UK for live
dates with her band, to coincide with the release of her second Dome album
‘Got To Let It Go’ on June 6. Angela, who won many fans with her debut album
‘They Don’t Know’ and her appearances at two successive Jazz FM Soul Weekenders,
plays London’s Jazz Café on June 6 and Club One, Ascot on June 8. Other
UK and European shows are being finalised. Advance tickets for the Jazz
Café (£17.50) can be purchased from www.jazzcafe.com
or by calling: 0870 060 3777 (standing tickets), restaurant reservations:
020 7534 6955. For Club One, ticket price is £15.00 contact: 01344 875123.
A classically trained pianist and violinist, Angela has recently been writing
and recording with a variety of other artists, including Rahsaan Patterson,
Laurnea and Deni Hines, as well as writing and featuring as a guest vocalist
with Reel People. A 4-track vinyl sampler will accompany the album release.
Further information: Santosh Robinson - 020 8748 4499 santosh@domerecords.co.uk
Santosh Robinson Dome Records Ltd 59 Glenthorne Road Hammersmith London
W6 0LJ www.domerecords.co.uk
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of the page
new
'soul discovery' internet soul show
MICK
O’ DONNELL PRESENTS:
SOUL DISCOVERY / JAZZ CELLAR
Crossover, Modern, Deep, Upfront + Forgotten Gems.
Everything from the world of Jazz old & new
Choice Movers for March:
Lee Morris 'I can’t believe you’re loving me' (Lee & Co.)
Edwynn Page 'Are you somebody’s girl' (2/hot)
Dirtysoul 'Love Grow' (HS)
Check
this link:
http://www.209radio.co.uk/shows/profile.php?show=souldiscovery
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of the page
candi
staton performs at the jazz cafe in london
Candi
Staton - Live
WHERE:
Jazz Café - 5 Parkway, Camden Town, London NW1
WHEN: Wednesday April 27th 2005 9pm - 1am
TICKETS: £17.50 Box office: 020 7344 0044
Famed
for her disco anthem 'Young Hearts Run Free', three times Grammy nominated
Southern Soul and Disco diva Candi Staton plays a one-off Jazz Cafe show.
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of the page
conya
doss performs at the jazz cafe in london
CONYA
DOSS MAKES HER UK DEBUT, CO-HEADLINING WITH MYRON
Conya
Doss, the Cleveland, Ohio-based R & B / soul singer-songwriter, who
made her debut on record in 2002 with ‘A Poem About Ms Doss’,
is to visit the UK in March for a show at the Jazz Café, London.
Conya,
whose second album ‘Just Because’ has just been released by Dome,
will be supported by New York soul star Myron, who produced three tracks
on the new album. He will also act as Conya’s musical director onstage.
DJ Jazzy
Jeff has described Conya as “A whole lot of soul in a beautiful package…a
must hear”
The
Jazz Café show is on March 29, with advance tickets priced at £15
(£18 on the door) from the usual outlets.
Further
information: Santosh Robinson Dome Records 020 8748 4499
www.domerecords.co.uk
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of the page
competition!
I
was contacted by a nice woman called Sarah, who works for a company called
Quite Great. That company are handling the PR for this lovely double CD
release entitled 'Soul Classics'. Sarah has very kindly offered to send
one of 3 CD's to three lucky winners, of this absolute set of, well......Soul
Classics! Perfect present for a friend this Christmas, or for your own stereo.
Every track you will know and love. So, if your old vinyl versions of these
tunes have seen better days, then why not test your knowledge, and see what
transpires. Firstly, here is the tracklistings:
CD
1
01 Aretha Franklin - I Say A Little Prayer For You
02 Marvin Gaye - What's Going On
03 Diana Ross - Ain't No Mountain High Enough
04 Stevie Wonder - Uptight (Everything's Alright)
05 Smokey Robinson & The Miracles - The Tracks Of My Tears
06 The Isley Brothers - This Old Heart Of Mine
07 Sam & Dave - Hold On I'm Comin'
08 The Jackson 5 - I Want You Back
09 The Four Tops - Reach Out I'll Be There
10 The Temptations - Papa Was A Rollin' Stone
11 Jackie Wilson - (Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher And Higher
12 Diana Ross & The Supremes & The Temptations - I'm Gonna Make
You Love Me
13 Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell - You're AlI I Need To Get By
14 James Brown - It's A Man's Man's Man's World
13 Bill Withers - Ain't No Sunshine
16 Gladys Knight & The Pips - Help Me Make It Through The Night
17 Commodores - Three Times A Lady
18 Barry White - You're The First, The Last, My Everything
19 Billy Paul - Me And Mrs. Jones
20 The Jackson 5 - I'll Be There
21 Jr. Walker And The All Stars - How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)
22 Sly & The Family Stone - Family Affair
23 Edwin Starr - War
CD2
01 Otis Redding - Try A Little Tenderness
02 Smokey Robinson & The Miracles - The Tears Of A Clown
03 The Supremes - Stop! In The Name Of Love
04 The Temptations - Get Ready
05 The Four Tops - Bernadette
06 Jackie Wilson - I Get The Sweetest Feeling
07 Martha Reeves And The Vandellas - Dancing In The Street
08 Jimmy Ruffin - What Becomes Of The Broken Hearted
09 The Supremes - You Can't Hurry Love
10 Stevie Wonder - Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours)
11 Michael Jackson - Got To Be There
12 Marvin Gaye - I Heard It Through The Grapevine
13 Sly & The Family Stone - Dance To The Music
14 Freda Payne - Band Of Gold
15 Isaac Hayes - Theme From Shaft
16 Commodores - Easy
17 Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes - If You Don't Know Me By Now
18 Irma Franklin - Take A Little Piece Of My Heart
19 Ben E. King - Stand By Me
20 Al Green - Let's Stay Together
21 Marvin Gaye & Kim Weston - It Takes Two
22 The Temptations - My Girl
23 The Chi-Lites - Have You Seen Her
24 Mary Wells - My Guy
25 The Supremes - Stoned Love
Some
great sides there. As it is that festive time of the year, I won't make
the questions too taxing. O.K. here goes:
a)
Who recorded the original version of 'I Heard It Through The Grapevine'.
(Looking for a female singer and not an original cylinder version from 1921!
LOL! A clue is, she has a track on this set)
b)
Name one of the three songwriters who penned 'Stop, In The Name Of Love'
c)
Name one of the artists here who duetted on an album release alongside the
artist Blinky.
Not
too hard. Use the search engine at the site if you need a little help. If
you e-mail me the answers, I will file them and get my daughter to draw
the names out of a hat on the on the 19th of December (Sunday here). Therefore
the final entries will need to be in by end of play on the 18th. I will
e-mail Sarah the winners names and addresses (don't forget to include those
with your answers) and, post allowing, you should receive the music before
the 25th December. (later outside the U.K., possibly, In that case...Happy
New Year!) Two weeks, so good luck and have a great holiday season!
toby@soulwalking.co.uk
http://www.umtv.co.uk/
The
Winners are:
Roman
Strobl in Austria
Sean
Belyeu in Ohio
and
Rob Orchard the U.K.
Well
done to everyone who entered the competition. Absolutely no-one got the
question incorrect, so if nothing else, you can all walk down the street
with your head held high! Have a very Happy Christmas, and thanks for coming
to the site in the first place. Well done to the winners.
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of the page
new
dvd from a 1963 concert in brazil by brother ray charles
I
was contacted by the people who are marketing this DVD. Brother Ray's passing
was one of the lowest points within Black Music this year. I was a child
of the Sixties and many events bring back powerful memories. Kennedy's assasination,
followed by his brothers and Martin Luther King's. Then there was the killing
of Malcolm X, along with the Black Power protests at the 1968 Olympics.
Interesting times.
Occasionally,
something takes you back to those days. Lot of bad stuff going down, but
a lot of positives as well. If you look at this moment in time, it is really
quite stunning. This DVD is a 'must have' if you are into Ray Charles' music
in any way. The band and background singing is quite superb. The whole experience,
in watching this DVD, was very moving. As they say in footballing terms,
this is very much a game of two halves. Two concerts. The first section
is what hit home for this watcher. What a great artist we lost this year.
An innovator. Do go and buy this DVD for Christmas. It is a simply lovely
way to look back on a genius. As they say in the song....'which nobody can
deny'.....click on the image for more details, and, by the way, make sure
your DVD player is a multi region one. My I-Mac asked me which region I
wanted to view this on, so I used the main machine in my living room. Do
persevere, however, this is wonderful, wonderful footage.
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new
album by the chestnut brothers for 2005
Coming
soon in early 2005, is a new 'Soulful / Contemporary R & B' full-length
album by The Chestnut Brothers, featuring a remix of their popular song,
'Whole Lotta You In Me'. The album will be released on the Abdul 215 Entertainment
imprint. www.cdbaby.com/chestnutbrothers
www.abdulentertainment.com
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new
albums by enchantment, linda stokes and deniece williams on the way
The
producer and songwriter, Michael Stokes e-mailed me and informed me of a
couple of very interesting projects he has on the way. Apart from working
on Smokey Robinson's latest release, he is working with his wife, Linda
(Magic Lady) on a new album, along with new sets from Deniece Williams and
the excellent Enchantment. Michael is sending me some of this new material.
When it arrives, I will post it at the site. Michael is an unsung hero of
Soul Music in my humble opinion. Check out his page at the site:
http://www.soulwalking.co.uk/Michael%20Stokes.html
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tyrone
davis is in a coma
Marshall
Thompson of the Chi-Lites e-mailed me this news yesterday (14th September
2004):
'I
want to ask everyone to please start a prayer line for a friend and long
time buddy Tyrone "Can I Change My Mind" Davis who is in the hospital
at MICU in Chicago.
Tyrone has suffered a stroke and possible MI. (Heart attack) and may have
had a second stroke while in the hospital.
I have talked to his wife and she has informed me that he is unconscious
at this time but vital sign are stable. So I ask you all to take a moment
and say a pray that GOD will take care of him in his hour of need. Thank
you God Bless'
Let
us hope that the man makes a full recovery.
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best
disco in town dvd release and forthcoming shows
Recently,
I was sent this new DVD release of a concert entitled 'The Best Disco In
Town', which pays homage to the old Capital Radio gigs of the Eighties,
I guess. I must admit at being a little wary of releases such as these,
mainly because, in some ways it patronises the artists somewhat and they
sometimes appear to be a shadow of their former selves. This DVD was a lovely
surprise. The audience was comprised of mainly 'thirty somethings', who
had been there at that time, and was held at Wembley Arena in 2003. It was
great to see Kid Creole strutting his stuff to many of the classic hits
of that great band. Really took me back in time. Now I recall where Jim
Carrey got the idea for the outfits for the film 'The Mask'! One thing that
really struck me was the tightness of each of the backing bands. The sound
quality is quite excellent with every act here. All the musicians involved
were quite magnificent. Rose Royce's performance was particularly highly
polished. Howard Hewett, of Shalamar, can sing any of the newer Soul Singers
into oblivion. He is a genius in my humble opinion, whilst Jeffrey Daniels
can still do the moonwalk to perfection. Tavares and the Real Thing were
quite excellent, however, the group who stole the day, sorry evening, for
me were Chic. Nile Rogers has discovered two real gems of singers in Sylver
Sharp and Jessica Wagner. These women have fantastic voices, highly disciplined
and Soulful. There is a second DVD that accompanies the concert disc, that
has background material relating to the show. All in all, a lovely surprise
and worth adding to your music shelves. Nicely filmed, great sound and thoroughly
enjoyable.
2004
sees the return of this concert, including Chic again, along with the Pointer
Sisters, Candi Staton, The fantastic Emotions, The Three Degrees, Evelyn
King and Boney M. Something for everyone there. The shows are in October.
Check
the site at: http://www.dvdisc.co.uk
or call freephone 0800 328 9623 for a copy.
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of the page
marlon
saunders and n'dambi upcoming gigs from soul brother records
Marlon
Saunders & N'Dambi Live @ The Jazz Cafe in July Marlon Saunders- Jazz Café,
24th July 2004.
Marlon
whose voice graced Jazzhole's selection on 'Organic Soul 3' launched has
brilliant debut 'Enter My Mind'.
The
album remains one of the best of last year. His cool soulful delivery is
matched by songs with a story to tell & hooks large enough to catch Jaws.
His exuberant live performances wowed audiences in the UK in November.
'Enter
My Mind' Marlon's debut solo album is available from Soul Brother Records
* Note. Tickets for Marlon's show will also include free entry to the club
night which follows directly after his gig.
Andy
Smith presents Northern Soul. For more details log onto www.jazzcafe.co.uk
N'Dambi
- Jazz Café, 29th July 2004
N'dambi
is truly one of Soul undiscovered gems. Ex collaborator of Erykah Badu,
she combines a deep soulfulness and lyrical astuteness with an engaging
vulnerability. Her jazzy overtones combine with influences from church,
blues, and greats like Nina Simone. She is one of Soul's superstars in waiting.
Her latest album 'Tuning Up & Cosignin' on CD & vinyl (last few) recorded
live in the studio is a masterpiece. 'Tunin' Up & Cosignin', N'dambi's great
second album is available from Soul Brother Records.
Tickets
for both of these unmissable shows are available from Soul Brother Records....call
us on 020 8875 1018 or email soulbrother@btinternet.com
Soul
Brother Records, 1 Keswick Road, East Putney, London, SW15. (U.K. telephone
number 07000 768 527)
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of the page
lamont
dozier interview
This
coming Saturday, 17th July 2004, on the Kev Roberts Solar Radio Show, Kev
is playing some of the conversation that Charles Waring (Blues and Soul)
and myself had with the great man. The photo above I took of Lamont after
our chat. Kev's show goes out between 10 a.m. and midday U.K. time. He was
absolutely fascinating, so do check Kev's excellent show. It is worth checking
out each week. The music is of the highest quality and Kev interviews some
of the real Soul greats. URL below:
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swing
out sister album due
The
excellent new Swing Out Sister album is now finally going to see a U.K.
release on the 26th of July 2004. I can't recommend this album enough. Their
best yet. Already receiving airplay on Peter Young's Jazz FM show, Richard
Searlings show and Kev Roberts Solar show.
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televised
motown event
THE
ABC TELEVISION NETWORK CELEBRATES THE HIT SINGLES OF LEGENDARY RECORD LABEL
MOTOWN, WITH “MOTOWN 45”
Hosted by Lionel Richie and Comedian Cedric The Entertainer
Two Hours of Non-Stop Music to Include Performances by Motown Legends and
Contemporary Superstars
The ABC Television Network will air an event special celebrating the greatest
hits of Motown Records with “Motown 45”. The special was filmed
at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles on April 4, and will air May 17th
on ABC.
Among the artists scheduled to perform, thus far, are Erykah Badu, Backstreet
Boys, Boyz II Men, Wayne Brady, The Funk Brothers, The Four Tops, Macy Gray,
Gladys Knight, India.Arie, Nick Lachey, Michael McDonald, Brian McKnight,
Martha Reeves & the Vandellas, Smokey Robinson, Kelly Rowland, Joss
Stone, Raven Symone, The Temptations, and Vanessa Williams.
“Unlike past Motown anniversary specials, this is not a history lesson,”
said Mr. Hamlin. “There are no awards, speeches, tributes or clip packages.
Instead, a constantly rotating pattern of live performance from multiple
stages will ensure that the music virtually never stops.”
Among the classic songs to be performed are: “Please Mr. Postman,”
which was the label’s first number one hit in 1961, “Ain’t
No Mountain High Enough,” “Dancing In the Streets,” “Heard
It Through the Grapevine,” “It Takes Two,” “Signed,
Sealed, Delivered,” “Sir Duke,” “Superstition,”
“What’s Going On,” “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted”
and many more, as well as medleys by The Supremes, The Four Tops and The
Temptations.
Founded in 1959 by Berry Gordy Jr., Motown Records produced dozens of #1
hit singles and was the soundtrack for an entire generation. Several of
the hits to be performed on “Motown 45” can be found on the upcoming
CD, Motown: #1’s, a digitally remastered compilation of 24 of the label’s
most popular hits, sung by the artists that made them famous. Motown: #1’s
will be released on April 20.
Proceeds from the event will benefit the United Negro College Fund.
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the
legendary caister soul weekender is a quarter of a century old!
The
Caister Soul Weekend, the original soul music weekender event, reaches its
25th anniversary next month and will celebrate the event at the traditional
Caister home - Vauxhall Holiday Park over the Bank Holiday weekend 30th
of April to the 3rd of May.
To
cope with the extra demand, event organisers now utilize several hotels
in Great Yarmouth as well as the Holiday Centre itself.
The
original concept of the Caister Weekender was instigated by club DJ and
radio presenter, Robbie Vincent who suggested to original promoters, Showstopopers,
the idea of taking the various soul tribes of the 70s away for a weekend
devoted to soul music.
Many
of the original Caister DJ team are still actively involved with the event
including Chris Hill, Froggy, Tom Holland, Chris Brown, Gary Dennis and
Sean French.
Caister
takes place twice a year at the beginning of May and the beginning of October.
Full
booking details for Caister, telephone 0870 755 2000. Caister website on:
http://www.caister.org
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sheree
brown to release a new album
Sheree
Brown's last solo album was released in 1982 on Capitol Records. Since that
time she has been an in demand session singer and artist. Due to a lot of
nagging on my part (to shut me up, I guess! LOL), she has completed a new
album. The set is called '83, which I guess is a reference to her third
in the consecutive years releases, the two previously being 1981 and 1982.
Really looking forward to hearing the new album. She is launching her own
website shortly. I will place a link on her page here, so as you can pick
up a copy of her album. Welcome back Sista!
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robbie
vincent returns...again!
On
the 22nd of February 2004, the legendary Robbie Vincent returns to Radio
London for a one off show. Robbie will be taking Norman Jays slot for a
3 hour show, between 7 and 10 p.m. U.K. time. Essential listening. Norman's
page at the BBC is below:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/london/insideldn/radio/normanjay_honours.shtml
robbie
vincent returns
Some
really good news for Soul Fans in the London area, is the return to the
radio of Robbie Vincent. He will be returning to his old stamping ground
at Radio London.
Robbie
will first be heard on BBC London 94.9FM on Friday 5th December 2003 from
Noon to 3.00pm when he stands in for Robert Elms.
He'll
then be back in the last week of December to stand in for Jon Gaunt in the
mornings (9.00am-Noon) from Monday 29th December through to New Year's Eve
and again on Friday 2nd January 2004.
Robbie
has been travelling for the last year. Great to have him back.
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dome
records competition!
Those
nice (and generous) people at Dome Records have asked me whether I would
run a competition at the site, in order that three of you knowledgeable
guys out there, win a copy of their excellent Dome Cookin Volume Two compilation.
The
album consists of songs by the likes of Dennis
Taylor and Incognito amongst others. This
really is a fine compilation, which I would recommend you to pick up even
if you are not a lucky winner. An essential album, covering some of Dome
Records finest releases over the last decade or so.
All
you need to do is e-mail me with the answer to these two, fairly simple
questions (There are clues at the site, by the way). Three addresses received
will be drawn from a hat on the 20th September (I'll get my daughter to
do that!).
I
will forward those chosen addresses on to Santosh at Dome, who will mail
out the CD's to the lucky winners. Best of luck to all of you out there.
Question
1:
What
are the titles of Dennis Taylor's three albums recorded for the Dome Records
label (bearing in mind that one is forthcoming on October 13th)?
Question
2:
Name
three other artists (apart from Dennis Taylor and Incognito), or groups,
that have recorded for Dome Records?
I
will post the winners names here after the competition has closed.
Closing
date will be the 20th of September 2003.
WINNERS!
Andy
Humberston, Coalville, Leicestershire.
P.
Stenning , Cobham, Surrey.
Emily
Hutchinson, Harrogate, North Yorkshire.
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upcoming
organic soul live tour
feat
Latanya Lockett, Big Brooklyn Red and Kim Hill
London
@ Jazz Cafe Tuesday 23rd Sept
Tickets for the London Jazz Cafe gig can be bought from Soul Brother Records.
Price plus booking fee. Call us on 020 8875 1018 or email soulbrother@btinternet.com
Ascot
@ Ollies Weds 24th Sept
Tickets available to book by phone on 01344 875 123 or visit their website
for more info - http://www.olliesbar.co.uk/
Leeds
@ Hi Fi Club Thurs 25th Sept
Tickets available to book by phone on 0113 242 7353 or visit their website
for more info (http://www.thehificlub.co.uk)
or at Jumbo Records in Leeds on 0113 245 5570, or Crash on 0113 243 6743
- or http://www.wayahead.com
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interesting
new magazine
The
first issue of a new magazine has hit the streets of the U.K. Very nicely
designed and focusing mainly on the dance side of music. Having said that,
there are very nice articles on Curtis Mayfield and Leroy Burgess amongst
other soul folk. They even gave this website a very nice acknowledgement.
Thanks guys. Click on either image to visit their website.
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barry white
dies
By now,
you will all be aware of the passing of Barry White. I grew up listening
to his music and I believe this to be a major loss to the Soul Music Scene.
Check the Respect page at the site. The words 'I am gutted' have never been
more appropriate.
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forthcoming
visitors to soul brother records in putney, london sw15
Two
excellent soul singer songwriters are appearing at the Soul Brother Records
store in the next couple of weeks.
Frank
McComb will be there on Sunday 8th June @ approx 2pm signing his new album
'The Truth' and also the 'Love Stories' set. Frank is playing at the Jazz
Cafe 8/9th June.
Also
at the store will be Leon Ware Saturday 14th June @ 2pm signing his new
album 'Loves Drippin' and all his back catalogue items. He is playing at
the Jazz Cafe on 13/14th June.
Soul
Brothers shop is at:
Soul
Brother Records, 1 Keswick Road, East Putney, London, SW15. (U.K. telephone
number 07000 768 527)
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Luther
rumours
12.6.03
Check this link:
http://www.chartattack.com/damn/2003/06/1210.cfm
Last
weekend, I took a call from a very upset friend (Reverend Tim) in Santa
Monica. Luther Vandross had died...or had he?
Tim
was at the soul skating rink that he goes to on a regular basis.
They
stopped the music at the place, made the announcement that Luther had passed
and then played 'The Glow Of Love'. I could hear in Tim's voice that he
was really upset. He got me going and I made a few calls.
Well
as it turned out, there were several web postings from fans, but nothing
from Reuters or the Press Association. I couldn't find anything on the Net.
There
are two issues going on here. Number one is why didn't Luther's J Records
label, shout from the rooftops that this was a lie spread, apparently, by
a New York deejay?
We all
know Luther is very ill (at the Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York)
however, rumours like this must be snipped in the bud.
Secondly,
what sick mind thought this was funny? I took an e-mail from one mum who
said she broke down in front of her kids.
I guess
the Internet has it's downside? I made several calls that I hoped would
stop this lie spreading.
You
feel like a fool, still I am glad he is alive and, soon hopefully, kicking.
Tashan said the rumours were all round Caister.
I spoke
to Chris Hill, who asked me to post something to calm peoples fears, so
here is that posting.
We should
remember that, whatever actions we take, they have a knock on effect. Throw
a pebble into a pond and there are ripples....
...you
can leave a personal get well message at Luthers website right here...
further
information:
Luther
Vandross' Mother Says Her Son Steadily Improving
Singer has not regained consciousness in three weeks.
by Gil Kaufman
Luther
Vandross was "touch and go" following his stroke three weeks ago,
but is steadily improving, according to his mother, Mary Vandross.
"Right
after the stroke, he was in grave danger; it was very touch and go,"
Mary Vandross said in a statement issued Monday (May 12). "But I feel
that it is just a matter of time before he improves and to me, his appearance
gets better daily. It's a very slow process."
The
singer, 52, was forced to undergo a tracheotomy two weeks ago to assist
his breathing after contracting pneumonia.
The
singer remains in critical but stable condition, according to a hospital
spokesperson, and has shown no signs of consciousness since he was found
in his New York apartment several hours after suffering a stroke on April
16.
Mary
Vandross makes the trip to the intensive care unit at New York's Weill Cornell
Medical College hospital every few days from her home in Philadelphia. She
said she's been overwhelmed by the support from the singer's friends and
admirers, including the Rev. Jesse Jackson, whom she calls "almost
every day to pray with me."
Though
Vandross remains unresponsive, Mary Vandross said she and the singer's nieces
play music and talk to him all day long, spinning such favorites as Aretha
Franklin and Dionne Warwick as well as his own music. Among the songs they
play for Vandross is the title track to his upcoming album, Dance With My
Father, which Mary said her son told her was the best song he has ever written.
"In fact, right after he wrote 'Dance With My Father' he called me
and he said, 'Mama, I wrote a song for you and daddy, I'm going to bring
it and see what you think,' " she said.
The
album is still slated for release on June 10. "Knowing how he loves
this new album, I believe Luther would want it to come out now and I'm so
grateful that he can get this chance," she said. "He is going
to recover and when he does, I want him to be greeted with a big success
story. He has to recover, he's all I have left, he's my last surviving child."
Aretha
Franklin is hosting a candlelight vigil and prayer service for Vandross
May 19 at 6:30 p.m at the Little Rock Baptist Church in Detroit. Joining
Franklin will be the Ebenezer Mass Choir, her sons, Eddie and Kecalf, and
the Four Tops.
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A bad year
for passing souls
This
has been a bad year, thus far, seeing the passing of several soul artists.
Edwin Starr (I was working on a show that would have seen him headlining),
Little Eva, Homer Banks, Tony Bell, Esther Ridgeway, Hank Ballard, Nina
Simone and now there are alledged reports (which I am trying to confirm
at this moment), of the passing of the singer Brandi Wells in March. I trust
these reports are premature. I, also, hope that these passings are like
London Buses and we don't see any more for a while.
I would
like to wish Luther Vandross and Barry White a speedy recovery from their
recent illnesses.
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Greg Edwards
recruited to the line-up at Capital Gold
Received
this e-mail this morning (6.2.03) regarding the deejay Greg Edwards relocating
to Capital Gold from Jazz FM (in the U.K.) . Looks like Jazz FM have installed
revolving doors at the station!! I used to listen to Greg's show during
the Seventies, at the station, before a Saturday night out. A very good
deejay.
'Capital
Gold are pleased to announce that we have signed Greg Edwards to join the
Capital Gold Network presenter team. Greg will be returning to once again
present 'Soul Spectrum', the legendary heritage black music programme that
ran on Capital FM between 1974 and 1987, and that Capital Gold introduced
last summer with Tony Blackburn presenting.
Greg was born on the Caribbean island of Grenada, moved to New York when
he was 8 and on to the UK in 1967. As head of 'Custom Labels' at CBS, he
was instrumental in launching the careers of artists like The O'Jays, Harold
Melvin and the Blue Notes, The Three Degrees and Billy Paul.
Greg started his Radio career replacing Emperor Rosko on Radio One before
joining Capital in 1974. For the last 9 years Greg has been working at Jazz
FM.
Apart from being a fantastic heritage name, Greg brings a vast knowledge
and experience of Black music styles of Motown, Disco, Jazz Funk and Soul
to compliment the 'music expert' image of Capital Gold. The new look Soul
Spectrum show will feature everything from Motown tracks to artists like
Mary J Blige.
As part of Capital Gold's new look Spring Presenter Schedule, Greg will
be presenting 'Soul Spectrum' on Thursday & Friday 20:00 - 22:00 p.m.,
Saturday evenings after the sport show 18:00 - 21:00, and a more laid back,
‘music for lovers version’ on a Sunday evening 22:00-01:00.'
So Tony
Blackburn goes to Jazz FM, Greg goes to Capital...........nurse!!!
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New copy of
Soulin' Magazine now available
The
latest copy of Tony Horn's excellent Soulin Magazine is now available. The
Winter 2002 edition has been a while coming, but I can guarantee you that
it has been well worth the wait. On the cover is a picture of Tashan performing
at the recent Fleetwood Weekender and Tony has an indepth interview with
the great man featured. There are also excellent articles on the likes of
the tragic Jeannie Reynolds, Major Harris, Beloyd and Brown Sugar, along
with all of the usual features and reviews. An excellent magazine and available
from Tony directly on 01933 386 376 or via his e-mail address at tony@soulin.co.uk.
Soulin's website is at http://www.soulin.co.uk
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Frank McComb
is back in the recording studio
LA-based
producer Steve Harvey, currently getting major props for his work on Donnie's
'The Colored Section' album, has just gone back into the studio with Frank
McComb to record not one but two new albums. The first should be laid to
tape before Christmas and will feature the trio of McComb on keys, Harvey
on drums and former Rufus player Bobby Watson on bass. Additional guests
will be invited to play on individual tracks, including Billy Preston. The
set is due to be the first project released independently by Scotland Yard
Productions.
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Upcoming gigs
at the Jazz Cafe in Camden
ledisi
Phillyadelphia's
Jazzyfatnastees have now re-scheduled their date for January 10th.
Here
are the forthcoming artists that are visiting the venue this and next year:
Marlena
Shaw [Dec 9th-15th]; Jean Carne/Nathan Heathman [Jan 6th-9th]; Damage [Jan
14th-17th]; Lewis Taylor [Jan 20th-22th]; Tasha's World [Jan 28th]; Ruby
Turner [Jan 31st]; Hil St. Soul [Feb 16th]; Mica Paris [Feb 17th-21st];
and Terri Walker [Feb 26th].
Ledisi
is due at the Camden Parkway venue on March 6th, Omar on March 10th-14th
and Carleen Anderson booked in for April 28th-30th. Call 0207 916 6060 for
ticket details.
click
on the image for further venue details
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Donna Gardier
and Angela Johnson added to the Blackpool event in January 2003
Dome
Records are providing three of the artists at the Blackpool Hilton Event
from the 3rd to the 5th of January 2003. All of the hotel accommodation
has been sold out, however, there are still tickets for the gig, if you
are prepared to find a hotel in the town yourselves. The tickets are available
at 0161 832 1111. Nice way to start the new year.
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Meshell Ndegeocello
returns to the Jazz Cafe in November
Prior
to the Marlena Shaw dates at the Jazz Cafe, the venue has secured the services
of ace bassist Meshell Ndegeocello on the 18th - 21st November inclusive.
Tickets are £17:50 in advance. The 24 hour credit card hotline is
020 7344 0044. Alternatively you can book online at http://www.jazzcafe.co.uk
Meshell has a new album out entitled 'Cookie: The Athropological Mixtape'.
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Marlena Shaw
returns to the Jazz Cafe in December
Marlena
Shaw makes a welcome return to the Jazz Cafe in Parkway, Camden, London
NW1, this December. The dates are Monday 9th through to Saturday 14th. The
24 hour credit card hotline is 020 7344 0044. Alternatively you can book
online at http://www.jazzcafe.co.uk
Prior to these welcome dates, are dates in September and early December
for Carleen Anderson and David Lynden Hall.
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Luther to
tour the U.K. this autumn
Luther
Vandross is heading over to the UK this autumn for a series of arena dates.
The 'Take You Out Tour' will be rolling into: Cardiff International Arena
[November 4th]; Sheffield Arena [5th]; Wembley Arena [7/8th]; Birmingham
Arena [10th]; Glasgow SECC Arena [12th]; Newcastle Telewest Arena [13th];
and Manchester MEN Arena [15th]. Purchase tickets on line at http://www.ticketline.co.uk
This
was not to be. Luther passed away in 2005. A real shame.
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Alicia Keys
adds second London Date
Alicia
Keys has added another London date to her autumn tour. The date is 3rd November
2002 at the Wembley Arena. Tickets are £22.50. Telephone number is
0870 400 0688.
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Jazz Cafe
in London has an impressive summer line-up
The
Jazz Cafe in London has an impressive line-up of artists coming along in
the next couple of months. Here are just a few:
Michael
Franti & Spearhead - 10th - 11th July / Azymuth - 19th July / Light
Of The World - 2nd and 3rd August / Leon Ware - 9th - 10th August / Norman
Connors - 16th - 17th August / Idris Muhammed, Melvin Sparks, Leon Spencer
& Houston Person - 22nd - 24th August / Omar - 26th - 30th August /
Carleen Anderson - 17th - 19th September and Jon Lucien - 26th - 28th September.
Going
to be a busy summer!
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Donnie to
play the Jazz Cafe, in London, in June
Kentucky
born and bred artist Donnie will be performing new tracks from his critically
acclaimed debut album, ‘The Coloured Section', at the Jazz Café in London
between the 6th-8th of June. For Booking info click below:
http://www.meanfiddler.com/jazzcafe/flash4/player.htm
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Leon Ware
working on a new album
Sources
say that Leon Ware is in the recording studio, working on a new album entitled
'Love's Drippin'. I am sure I have no idea what he is talking about!! There
is no label deal at present. I will update this page as more information
becomes available.
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Angie Stone
to return to the U.K.
Angie
Stone returns to The U.K. for an exclusive date at the Birmingham Academy
Tuesday 16th July 2002. Tickets on sale now at the usual outlets. London
dates to follow, so I am informed.
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Lisa 'Left
Eye' Lopes is dead
Lisa
'Left Eye' Lopes, of the successful female trio TLC, was killed in a car
crash in Honduras early on Friday 26th April 2002. She was reported to have
not been wearing a seatbelt at the time.
Lisa was in Honduras for a holiday. She was amongst seven people in the
car on Thursday night and the only fatality according to reports.
Lisa
released her own solo outing in October 2001, entitled 'Supernova' on Arista
Records, with the track, 'The Block Party', being the first single release.
Lisa
Left Eye Lopes was just 30 years old.
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Leon Ware,
Lesette Wilson and Norman Connors Play London's Jazz Cafe in August
The
Jazz Cafe in London is going to be the place to be this summer. Lesette
Wilson plays there on the 22nd of June followed by Leon Ware on the 9th
and 10th of August, followed one week later by the welcome return of Norman
Connors and his Starship Orchestra on 16th and 17th of August. Having seen
Leon and Norman on both of their last visits there, I can highly recommend
you pick up a ticket. Norman ditched the machines and played some fabulous
drumming. The band were fabulous. See you there. Tickets can be bought from
Ticketmaster on 020 8533 0111.
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Leroy Burgess
to visit London for a P.A. visit
Leroy
Burgess is to visit London later in April for a P.A. visit to Soul Brother
Records in London. Soul Brother recently released an anthology of Leroy's
work and he will be signing copies of his CD at the shop by East Putney
tube station (Keswick Road SW15) at 2.30 p.m. Worth visiting Soul Brother
at any time, but this will be a really good reason to get on down there.
Date is April 27th.
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James Brown
returns to London in May
James
Brown returns to London a year after a one off concert at East London's
Ocean venue in Hackney. He will be playing at the same venue with his full
band. Tickets are £35 and are available from Ticketmaster on 020 8533
0111. The date is Tuesday the 7th of May. Book early to avoid missing out.
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India Irie
to play a one off show in London
India
Irie is to play a one off show at the London Shepherds Bush Empire on the
Thursday 11th of April 2002. Tickets are £17.50 and you will have
to add a booking fee to that price. Booking number is 0870 771 2000 or you
can book online at http://www.gigsandtours.com.
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Kenny Lattimore
and Chante Moore wed
Chante
Moore and Kenny Lattimore were married on New Years Day at the Grand Lido
San Souci Resort Hotel, Ochos Rio, Jamaica. The couple married after a short
tour at which Kenny Lattimore performed, along with the Isley Brothers,
in New York in late December. Hope the pair live happily ever after.
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More Live
Gigs @ The Jazz Cafe in Spring 2002
Two
great acts are appearing at the Jazz Cafe during March. These include Jean
Carne on 14th, 15th and 16th and The Blackbyrds return, during the same
month, for the 28th, 29th and 30th. Check the Jazz Cafe website at the links
page for more info.
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Jody Watley
@ The Jazz Cafe in February
Jody
Watley is to make two U.K. appearances at Camden's Jazz Cafe venue in London.
Dates are 21st and 22nd of February 2002.
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Angie Stone
to come to the U.K. in February 2002
Angie
Stone will appear at the Shepherds Bush Empire on March 3rd and 4th as part
of a European tour. Tickest are priced at £17.50 and are available
from Ticket Web (0870 771 2000) and Piccadilly Box Office (020 7434 2222)
along with all of the usual outlets.
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New album
from Me'Shell Ndegeocello
The
fourth album from cult spoken word / funk / soul artist Me'Shell Ndegeocello
is ready to hit the streets. 'Cookie: The Anthropological Mixtape' finds
Me'Shell back in funky vein after the rather downbeat third set. She is
still recording for Maverick Records.
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Jill Scott
UK Live Dates
Jill
Scott has just announced UK tour dates for early next year. She will be
at Manchester's Academy
14th Thursday February / London's Brixton Academy on Saturday 16th February
/ Birmingham's Academy on Tuesday 19th February and Bristol's Academy on
Wednesday 20th February
2002. Tickets are £20 inside London / £17 Outside. Call the
24-hour credit card line on 0115 912 9000. On sale from now.
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Nathan
Heathman, Eloise Laws and Norman Connors @ The Jazz Cafe
As an
addendum to the last posting, Angela Bofill will not be appearing at the
Jazz Cafe, however Eloise Laws will be taking her place. Still a very impressive
line-up methinks. The dates are 21st-24th November.
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Nathan
Heathman, Angela Bofill and Norman Connors @ The Jazz Cafe
Singer
/ Songwriter and Musician Nathan Heathman will be coming to London to perform
at the Jazz Cafe in Camden Town. Nathan will be accompanied by Angela Bofill
and Norman Connors. The dates are 21st-24th November. Can't wait.
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Donnie
album completed
Donnie
Johnson from Atlanta, whose promo single on Giant Step, 'Do You Know', has
been making plenty waves hereabouts, has now finished recording his album
with Steve Harvey at the helm. 'The Colored section' will not feature the
mooted duet with his mate India Arie because of scheduling difficulties
- India's out on tour - but promises to be filled with great lyrics and
wonderful playing. LA based Harvey is also working on an act he describes
as like Rufus meets Bobby Womack - we'll have copies soon, we hope. Steve
also reveals that his buddy and regular session guitarist Bobby Watson has
joined Chaka and the rest of the team on the Rufus reunion tour, an event
which has already led to an album deal.
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Singer
Aaliyah killed in plane crash
R &
B singer and actress Aaliyah died when a small plane that was to carry her
and eight others back to the United States crashed after takeoff in the
Bahamas, authorities said.
The cause of the crash was unclear. Kathleen Bergen, a spokeswoman for the
U.S. Federal Aviation Administration in Atlanta, said the plane was a Cessna
402 owned by Skystream, a company based in Pembroke Pines, Fla. She said
the plane crashed at the end of the airport's runway at 6:50 p.m.
More
on the Respect page
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Lamont
Dozier at the Royal Festival Hall in London
Lamont
Dozier is going to be at the Festival Hall on 22nd September followed by
Fontella Bass & David Peaston on the 27th. Phone Number: 020 7960 4242.
Lamont's concert is going to be part of a review entitled 'Stop In The Name
Of Soul'. Great that he is appearing but a shame he is going to have some
artists appearing with him that include Roachford and Heather Small (aaargh!).
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Betty
Everett is dead
Soul
singer Betty Everett, best known for her 1964 hit 'The Shoop Shoop Song
(It's In His Kiss) , has died aged 61.
Everett's family discovered her body in her Beloit, Wisconsin, home on Sunday
19th Of August 2001, according to her lawyer, Jay B. Ross. She apparently
died either on Friday or Saturday. She had been treated for heart problems
and the cause of death was believed to be a heart attack, said her sister
Christine Townsend.
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Sandra
St. Victor album to be released on Expansion and James Brown to appear in
the U.K.
Sandra
St Victor's forthcoming album 'Gemini, Both Sides' is about to be picked
up by Ralph and Richard at Expansion Records, here in the U.K. It should
be in the shops by 3rd September, reports suggest.
James
Brown will be appearring in the U.K., along with his 15 piece band and dancers,
at The Ocean in Hackney later this month. Tickets are going to be around
£35, however dates and times are yet to be announced. Booking Office
number is: 0207 314 2800. Get down!
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Leon
Ware At The Jazz Cafe In October
Leon
Ware will be appearing at the Jazz Cafe, in Camden, on the 12th and 13th
of October 2001. There will be a band of the best Dutch soul musicians supporting
him.
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New
Soulin' No.6 issue magazine out now
The
new issue of the excellent Soulin' magazine has hit the U.K. streets. I
have been in touch with Tony Horn, whose is the magazine's editor, and swapped
various pieces of information. I must say this magazine is an excellent
read for anyone even, slighly interested, in soul music. This issue features
an in depth interview with Leon Ware along with some excellent reviews and
features. Recommended and only £3.50 (including UK postage), I would
say this is a 'must' magazine to have. You can get in touch with Tony at:
tony.horn@ntlworld.com
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Sandra
St. Victor's new album due
Launching
on 18th August with a party in New York City, 'Gemini: Both Sides' is the
brand new album from former Family Stand member Sandra St. Victor. The long
awaited follow-up to 'Mack Diva' features guest performances from Roy Ayers
and Donald Byrd as well as production assists from long time musical collaborator
Tom Hammer, Ty Macklin [of Erykah Badu fame], The Roots, Mark Batson [India.Arie]
and one-time partners in The Stand, Peter Lord and Jeff Smith. There's a
version of War's seventies classic 'Slippin' Into Darkness' too. Right now
you can get it from Sandra's website, www.sandrastvictor.com, but soon you'll
be able to get it everywhere.
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Michael
Jackson reunion concert thrown into doubt
Pop
star Michael Jackson's upcoming reunion performance with his five brothers
was thrown into doubt Friday after two siblings, Jermaine and Randy, complained
publicly about 'exorbitant
ticket prices' being charged for the event.
The first regrouping of all six Jackson brothers on stage since their 1984
'Victory Tour' had been planned as part of a two-concert, all-star tribute
to Michael Jackson in September, celebrating his 30 years as a solo artist.
Tickets for the Sept. 7th and Sept. 10th shows at New York City's Madison
Square Garden are carrying a face value of up to $2,500, according to Billboard.com.
By Steve
Gorman
LOS ANGELES (Reuters)
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Ernie
K-Doe is dead.
Ernie
K-Doe, the bluesman who topped the charts with 'Mother-in-Law' in 1961,
died on the 5th July in the morning at University Hospital in New Orleans.
He was 65.
Hospital spokesman Jerry Romig said K-Doe was 'very sick' when admitted
on the Friday before and lapsed into a coma three days before his death.
See
the Respect page
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Donnie
album due next year
The
best kept Soul secret in the United States is about to show his true colours
with a debut album on Giant Step later this year. Look for Donnie's album
'Welcome to the Colored Section' in early 2002.
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New
Isleys album due
The
new Isley Brothers album entitled 'Eternal' is released in July and features
vocal and production input from R.Kelly, Raphael Saadiq, Avant, Jill Scott
and Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis.The project also includes a piece called
'Think' which features music written by the late Curtis Mayfield.
Said Ron Isley: 'It's our 40th anniversary and we wanted to make a record
worthy of our entire career. This is the Isley Brothers Super Bowl record.'
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Donnie
To Visit U.K.
Donnie
is right now hard at work on his debut album with Steve Harvey out in California.
He is planning to visit London in October for a series of live dates. He
will be at the Jazz Café in Camden Parkway. Word that India Arie
was being lined to up to perform on one track on the album now looks to
have been accurate too.
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New
Michael Jackson Album due
The
new Michael Jackson CD is finally finished. It is titled 'Invincible' and
is due around mid-September. It features several producers, but Teddy Riley
is the main one. Guests on the album include Carlos Santana, Destiny's Child,
R.Kelly and many more.
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New
Mary J. Blige Album due
Word
is Mary J Blige has been working out with D'Angelo's personal trainer. Her
new album is coming in mid-August from Universal Records and advance listens
suggest it could be her finest yet.
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New
Anita Baker Album
The
much delayed Atlantic Records debut from Anita Baker hit a further setback
recently when the diminutive Detroit songstress ended up filing suit in
the US District Court in Detroit against Zomba Recording Corp. and its Dreamhire
division, whom she alleges supplied her with a 24-track tape recording machine
that supposedly left popping noises all over tracks she'd been putting down.
Despite all attempts to save the music she's had to start the project all
over again!
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Billy
Preston unwell
27th
May 2001 9:55 AM EDT
NASHVILLE, Tennessee. (AP) - Singer-songwriter and keyboardist Billy Preston
remained hospitalized Saturday after being diagnosed with chronic end stage
kidney disease.
Preston, who was touring as a member of Eric Clapton's band, was taken to
a local hospital Wednesday and listed in stable condition, manager Joyce
Moore said. Moore declined to give the name of the hospital. Preston's condition
is thought to be caused by high blood pressure. He was
being treated with hemodialysis.
'From his hospital bed, he urges everyone with any symptoms or family history
of high blood pressure to seek medical care immediately,' Moore said. Preston
is best know for his work with the Beatles and Rolling Stones. His hits
include 'Nothing From Nothing Leaves Nothing,' 'Will It Go Round in Circles?'
and 'You Are So Beautiful To Me.'
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Incognito
album due
A new
Incognito album is set for release entitled 'Life Stranger Than Fiction'.
The album will be the final set for the UK based Talking Loud label. The
release date is set for July.
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