MVP Puppets: Kobe, Lebron, Chris Cringle vs. Blitzen

THIS SHIT IS HILARIOUS...

**NEW** ALICIA KEYS "DREAMING"

Loving this track from A Keys upcoming album The Element of Freedom...

**LETOYA FEAT. LUDACRIS "REGRET""**

Yeah so the video is months behind...guess the execs saw how well it was doing and decided to push for a vid. Anyway new or old, I still like it...

Teedra Moses Performing @ Club Liv in DC Nov. 13

Go see The Young Lioness herself perform this Friday at DC's Club Liv.

Purchase tickets here.

This That DIRTY MONEY "Love Come Down"

****NEW!!!! YOUNG SWIFT "I GOT NOW"

New release from Durham, NC native Young Swift...

AARADHNA "Betcha By Golly Wow"

"Betcha By Golly Wow" remake by New Zealand artist Aardhna. Great voice...

ALICIA KEYS "TRY SLEEPING WITH A BROKEN HEART"

2ND RELEASE FROM A KEYS...

REWIND: SoulCulture Presents...Aaliyah Revisited

Although this beautiful piece of work was released on the anniversary of her passing this year, I still felt it was only right to reintroduce this soulful tribute once more. With featured artists like Jesse Boykins III covering "I Care 4 U" and my favorite Afta 1 feat. Nikko Soul adding their twist to another Aaliyah hit "4 Page Letter" you can't go wrong.

4 Page Letter - AFTA-1 ft. Nikko Gray

Download SoulCulture Presents...Aaliyah Revisited here.

Track Listing

1. If Your Girl Only Knew (Syberized) – produced & performed by Sy Smith

2. Are You That Somebody – performed by Tawiah
3. I Care 4 U – produced & performed by Jesse Boykins III
4. It’s Whatever – produced by Black Einstein ft. Baby Sol
5. A Million Preludes – performed by Marsha Ambrosius
6. One In A Million – performed by Jonas
7. Rock The Boat – performed by Vula, produced by Jodi Milliner
8. ESP (A 4 Page Suite) – produced by AFTA-1 ft. Nikko Gray

MAYER HAWTHORNE "GREEN EYED LOVE"

Release number 2 from Ann Arbor Michigan native Mayer Hawthorne. Watch to find out the real inspiration for his "Green Eyed Love".



For those of you who haven't picked up Hawthorne's album A Strange Arrangement, you're definitely missing out.

Visit www.stonesthrow.com/mayerhawthorne and www.asideworldwide.com for more info on Mayer Hawthorne.

ALICIA KEYS VID TEASER "DOESN'T MEAN ANYTHING"

Alicia Keys is absolutely gorgeous in this snippet, and while I love of some of her previous work, can't say this song moves me. I'm not a huge fan of teasers, especially when the teaser itself poses no excitement. For me, the only artist to successfully pull off an interesting one is Mr. West with "Flashing Lights".

But for those of you who are die hard Alicia Keys fans, enjoy.

NEW WALE FEAT. RIHANNA "CONTEMPLATE"

I'M A WALE FAN SO I'M A BIT BIASED....BUT I LIKE. (COULD DO WITHOUT RIHANNA SAMPLE THO)

UPSET: J*DAVEY'S GARNIER FRUCTIS/MTV CONTEST

WELL UNFORTUNATELY THEY DIDN'T WIN THE I WANT MY MUSIC ON MTV CONTEST...BUT...PERHAPS THEY SHOULD HAVE. I'M JUST SAYIN...

HERE'S THE NEW VID FOR THEIR SINGLE MAMA'S BACK.



CHECK OUT THE OFFICIAL GARNIER FRUCTIS COMMERCIAL ON MTV.

International Soul Summit 2009

HATE that I missed this year's event, but I will def be in attendance next year...

Take a look at this live performance by Eric Roberson (my fav).

New Black Eyed Peas "Meet Me Halfway"

VMA WRAP UP

jUST WANTED TO THROW A QUICK REVIEW OF THE MTV VMA DEBACLE THAT WAS AIRED LAST NIGHT...

THE SHOW WAS AIGHT...IN COMPARISON TO PREVIOUS YEARS I WOULD HAVE TO SAY A BIT DULL. HOWEVER, IT WAS DEFINITELY ENTERTAINING.

HIGHLIGHTS FOR ME WOULD DEF BE:

1. PINK'S PERFORMANCE - HOT SHIT! never seen anybody sing those notes while upside down hanging over a stage like that.



2. BEYONCE'S PERFORMANCE - i mean it's Bey, so what more is it to say right? what got me was here ability to control the crowd the way she did, she had everyone in the bldg waiving their hands in the air and clapping, that's my bitch!

3. JAY-Z PERFORMANCE - loved the intro, loved the performance...lil mama's whack ass appearance was stupid...i keep wondering, WHO LET HER ON STAGE! i'm sure jay wasn't too pleased, aside from that, i give it 5 stars





4. WALE and UCB - such a GOOD look for Wale and UCB to be the house band for the awards. even though i kinda felt like they could have a bit more energy, just hearing "Sexy Ladyyyyyy..." was enough for me...wish I could've heard "Poke Her Face" and Solo do her thing, but oh well...

5. GAGA - now i'm not even a fan of Lady Gaga, couldn't stand to here first single when it aired. but i did like her performance tho...bizarre, strange, and dimented..she gets points just for taking it there.



6. And last but certainly not least Mr. West - had me on the floor dying...with all the talk about the incident, i'm just going to say that yes i thought it was a bit much 'ye....let that girl have her moment.

JAY-Z Rhapsody Commerical

Hot shit....

BECAUSE WE LOVE IT...

New Raheem Devaughn feat. Ludacris "Bulletproof"

Must say, can't for the new album The Love & War MasterPeace.

Hot...

INbox: Drake feat. Fresh and Nipsey Hussle "Killer"

I received this track in my inbox a few days ago from 25 yr old. Brownsville, NY producer, artist, and dj, by the name of Fresh, whose featured on the song.

Take a listen and tell me what you think...

Click here.

It's Been a Minute....

What's up my people!!!!!!!! Ok so I've been mia for a hot lil minute, but trust me, that's absolutely not a bad thing. A b*tch's gotta pay the billz right...

So let's start of with the bad news:

It's September and the site isn't up ;-( Finding an affordable web designer these days isn't too easy to come by, but yet understandable...WE IN A RECESSION B*TCH!!!!!!!!! I digress...

Good news:
The site IS almost done. Well technically it is done, but a few things need to be tweaked. I'm not about just putting any and everything out there, so I want my sh*t to look juuuuust right ya dig?

So who will you read about you ask? Lets take a look below shall we....

Harlem's Cash

He was featured recently on the blog, so be sure to check him out at AmplifiedMinds.com when it launches.

British Soul Artist Tawiah

Musician and soul singer Terrence Cunningham

There will be many MORE to be featured, so PLEEZZEEEE stay tuned for more updates.

Now I know what you're thinking, some of you may have never heard of or seen these people before. And if that person is you, then we've done our job. Our job is to bring these talented artists to your computer screen in the hopes that you will become inspired to venture out and give your ears a taste of something new.

So now that I'm back and ready to give you a steady strand of updates, I hope that you all will continue to support Amplified Minds by posting comments and spreading the word.

animout!!!!!!

Amplified Minds Magazine Welcomes Underground Artists

Amplified Minds Magazine is the place where underground artists dwell. Dedicated to the promotion of indie artists, songwriters, and producers, Amplified Minds will be the must-see source for what's hot and what's new in the underground music scene.

For more information regarding Amplified Minds Magazine, email info@amplifiedminds.com. Be sure to follow us on twitter for more updates.

Coming in July...

Hilarious...good job with the MJ outfit tho.

Rare Michael Jackson Commercial

Saw this yesterday. Michael sings to a younger version of himself. Check it out...

Michael Does the Robot

I posted this yesterday on twitter. If you didn't catch it, it's Michael performing with the Jackson 5. His robot is CRAZY!!! Kept watching over and over...

We Lost a Legend...

Took a minute to update the blog, amidst all of the chaos and last minute shuffling at work, but here it is.

I'm still in shock that the King of Pop has left us, without warning. It's hard to believe that I wasn't even born when Mike starting creating his magic with the Jackson 5. In fact, I was just born when Michael was at the very peak of his career. Yet and still, at the age of 24, the presence and loss of this man is felt in volumes. Everyone has their own memories of Michael, whether it be trying to moonwalk across the floor in white socks as he did, or aiming desperately to mimic the dance routines from "Thriller". I remember watching Thriller for the first time as a child, years after its release. I LOVED the song, but I could never watch it until the end. I hated the way Michael Jackson turned and looked back at the camera with those petrifying yellow eyes. Scared the hell outta me.


It took me years to really learn and appreciate this man's many accomplishments and accolades. How he started off at such a young age and later progressed into an icon, through his amazing and timeless music and his creativity. Which brings me to another MJ moment. I remember there was all this hoopla about Michael Jackson releasing another music video. The announcement was heard ALL OVER. Prime time tv was shut down completely, counting down to the World Premiere for Michael Jackson's "Remember the Time" music video. The excitement soon trickled down to little old me, and I too sat in front of the television set excited. From the opening intro to the ending credits, my eyes were permantently glued to the screen. This video is probably my most favorite release from Michael Jackson, from a visual aspect. The effects were amazing and I just remember thinking that I had never seen a video like that in my life.



As I sat with my fellow Michael Jackson music enthusiasts, I listened to their stories of how MJ has had such a profound impact on each of their lives. All of their personal accounts vary, but there was one underlying connection between each. Each of them expressed that Michael Jackson was more than just a part of the Jackson 5, he was more than just a music icon, but he was like family. Michael crossed generations and allowed us to grow along with his incredible career, and in that aspect, everyone felt as though they knew him personally.

As for myself, its sad to say that people really begin to appreciate who you are when you're gone. Now that we have lost our beloved Michael, people are coming out the nowhere professing their love for Jackson more than effort. My question to you is, where was this support during the trying times of his life? Through the skin/nose alterations and child molestation charges, where was the out pour of emotion then?

I could write sooo much about Michael Jackson and his recent passing. I could discuss how ironic it is that the very man who created the Jackson 5, thus creating Michael Jackson the solo artists, is the man that we watch in disdain and unbelief as he unhesitatingly announces the release of his record label. Are we surprised? Or I could express the effects of Michael's career on popular artists today, and how ALOT of this artists wouldn't exist...PERIOD.

But in honoring his legacy and not the many complicated aspects of his life, I will end this blog saying that the loss of Michael Jackson is one that will felt decades from today. We must continue to remember him and keep his music alive for our children and their children. We must educate them that one thing will remain the same for centuries to come, Michael Jackson has undoubtly changed the course of music AND our lives forever.

Trey Songz Releases "Anticipation"

I'm not usually a die hard Trey Songz fan, never have been, but I'm starting to feel him just a lil bit. Since the recent release of his single "I Need a Girl", his sound is a bit more sophisticated and sexy, hoping I don't put my foot in my mouth on this one.

Just downloaded his newest release "Anticipation" via his own http://www.seefurtherthaniam.com/ blog, and I have to say, it's not at all that bad.

CLICK HERE to download your free copy.

The Clipse feat. Kanye West "Kinda Like a Big Deal

yEp...

9th Wonder Presents Tyler Woods "Prove Myself"

NC stand up...

Lyric Cafe' Wrap Up

Ok, so just finished wrapping up production for BETJ's Lyric Cafe' taped at DC's own Love Nightclub. I guess my "day" job isn't all that bad... Can't wait to see it air, performances were AMAZING and so were the poets.

Check out the last season with guest host Ledisi.

NEW VID: "CHILLIN'" WALE FEATURING LADY GAGA

lovin' this....

Kanye's "Spaceship"

For all you Kanye fans, here's the never released video for "Spaceship" off his album, College Dropout.

On Kanye's blog, he says he never released it cuz he "wasn't satisfied with it".

What do you think?

Spaceship from kwest on Vimeo.

J.Cole "Simba"

J. Cole - Simba (Directed by BBGUN) from bbgun on Vimeo.

Lovin' this dude...Carolina stand up.

Thinking...

Sitting around work, shootin the breeze. Love brainstorming on crazy creative ideas. Because I don't want to give too much away...all i can say is keep your eyes OPEN.

Working on the mag still, but unfortunately, the date has been pushed back AGAIN!! Not to worry it will be released in JUNE for sure. No more p u s h-backs.


*side bar* - red bull has crack in it...explains alot

Jesse Boykins Performs at Bohemian Caverns June 3rd

Coming to the stage at Bohemian Caverns is talented soul artist Jesse Boykins. June 3rd is the date and 8 pm is the time....so get there early.

For more info go to click here.

TERRENCE CUNNINGHAM Interview

Just recently, I had the opportunity to interview a young and extremely talented singer/musician from the DMV area, Terrence Cunningham. It's very refreshing to hear an artists who's dedicated to his craft and cares more about authenticity to oneself moreso than commercial success. Unfortunately, I've never had the opportunity to hear Cunningham sing live, but I'm sure I will very soon. Thus far, he's performed background vocals for Ledisi and opened up for acts like Emily King. Can't wait to hear more from him...

Be sure to visit his myspace page at myspace.com/terrencecunningham.

Terrence will also be featured in the upcoming premiere issue of Amplified Minds Magazine.

New RichGirl "He Ain't With Me Now"

Wish they would have released a vid for "24's" but oh wells...this one is cool...had to listen to it twice.

Check it out...

New Kanye West "Paranoid"

Magazine Update

LAUNCH DATE IS RAPIDLY APPROACHING!!! Excited about the launch of Amplified Minds Magazine and I can't wait for you guys to see it. The work never ends, so I'm still looking for artists and producers to feature in the mag.

Just send your info to ampdminds@gmail.com! In the meantime, be sure to take a look at the myspace page at www.myspace.com/amplifiedmindsmag....

I'm Back...

Know I've been gone for a hot lil minute, so I just wanted to update you guys with the latest from Amplified Minds...

AMPLIFIED MINDS MAGAZINE MYSPACE PAGE IS OFFICIALLY UP!! So make sure you visit www.myspace.com/amplifiedmindsmag to get more info on how to get featured.

OFFICIAL AMP'D MINDS MAGAZINE SCHEDULED TO LAUNCH THIS MONTH!! SO KEEP YOUR EARS AND EYES OPEN...

ALSO, YOU CAN FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER AT TWITTER.COM/KRYSKNIGHT!

And if you are an artists, producer, or songwriter, contact me at ampdminds@gmail.com to get featured.

Be back soon...

Melanie Fiona

Melanie Fiona has a sound that is undeniably distinct and gut-renching. Her voice is reminiscent of the impeccably talented and pre-maturely discipated Lauryn Hill, leaving this Toronto, Canada native with the perfect ingredients to success. Although her single, "Give It To Me Right", does not reflect the full extent of her vocal range as well as incredible songwriting capabilities, the single serves as an open invitition to experience soul music for a much younger generation.

Check out her acapella version of "Somebody Come Get Me" which was featured on Reggae Gold 2008 compilation album.

"Give It To Me Right" from Melanie Fiona's debut album The Bridge.

NEW WALE FEAT. LADY GAGA!!

This song is in heavy rotation in Wale's own DC. I'm loving this Cool N Dre produced track...take a listen.

BUGGIN' OUT 2009 CONSEQUENCE FEAT. KID CUDI

You probably heard this song before on my blog, just found the video for it. Remake of the classic from A Tribe Called Quest.

NEW Q-TIP FEAT. AMANDA DIVA "MANWOMANBOOGIE"

Love this joint right heahhh! Enjoy.

Thanks!!

Just want to take the time out to thank everyone for following my blog. I sincerely appreciate the love, support, and all of the comments, whether good or bad, everyone has an opinion and that's most definitely a good thing!!!

The magazine is coming along sooo well and I can't wait for it's release which is very soon. In the meantime, I've been busy interviewing and scouting for various artists to be featured. It's a great feeling to finally feel like I'm moving in the right direction. It's challenging to say the least, but I welcome challenges...life would be boring without them.

If anyone would like to reach out to me for interviews, album reviews, upcoming events, WHATEVER, feel free to hit me up at ampdminds@gmail.com.

I'm also in search of contributors. I'm doing everything solo right now and would love to get an extra pair of hands.

And of course, artists, songwriters, and producers who want to get their story/music out there, send me your info.

Coming up in the first issue of Amplified Minds...

Pharoahe' ManC

Deena Jonez

RIP CHIEF...

Mr. Roboto

West's new Complex Mag cover...







Fly...

Muhsinah

Ok so I'm a little upset with myself for not hearing about this young lady much sooner, but better late than never. After listening to her music for about 5 minutes, I literally fell in love with Muhsinah's music. I became infactuated and absolutely had to find out more.

Stats:
-DC native
- 24 years old
- classically trained in piano
- has 6 releases over a span of 3 years (many of them digital only)

Her current release, Oscillations: Sine is available via iTunes and it's AMAZING!! By amazing I mean new, fresh, innovative, not Beyonce' and/or other industry natives (no offense ;-0) Check out her myspace.com/muhsinah page for songs from her upcoming album Oscillations: Triangle to be released in April.

Be sure to check Muhsinah performing live with Teedra Moses April 2 at Club Liv in Washington, DC.

Muhsinah "From Here"

Sumthin' Nu: Sophie Delila

Paris born Sophie Delila has been stirring up the music scene in the streets of London for quite sometime now. Trained in piano at the tender age of 5, Sophie travelled to the US to study music at Berklee College of Music in Boston, but later decided to move to NYC. The next day, Sophie landed a job at a recording studio, later allowing her to sing background for various underground soul artists. Soon after, she decided to record her own material.

Delila now resides in London and continues to work on her solo career, including her recently released "Hooked" album, which is not currently available in the US.





Be sure to check out more of Sophie Delila's music at www.myspace.com/sophiedelilamusic. My personal favorite is the title track "Hooked".

Tell me what you think...

True Hip-Hop Stories: Kwame

For all you old-skool hip hop heads, you gotta remember this dude. This polka-dot wearing, hi-top fade sporting MC, had us all singing "Only youuuuu, can make me do the things I do"!! And if that doesn't ring a bell, press play and refresh your weak ass memory...




Yep that's right. Kwame was once a household name in the late 80s. Years later, he's still involved in the music scene, only now as a producer. His credit list includes, Raheem Devaughn, LL Cool J, and Mary J. Blige and often uses "Shhh, Kwame did it." on many of his intros.

Hello Harlem - Harlem's Cash Interview w/ Amplified Minds

Harlem’s Cash...you may think you know the name now, and if you don’t, you will. Cash is creating quite a buzz in the underground music scene with his mixtapes On My Way to Harlemwood, 1.0 and the recently re-released version On Way My to Harlemwood, 1.5, Government Approved. And after speaking with him, I found out the man behind the true meaning of Harlem’s finest.

So, where did you get the name Harlem’s Cash?

Well originally my name was just Cash. People would say, “oh yeah, he look like he’s about that money” from the way I would dress. A while later, I was told that there were way too many Cash’s out there already. And a label exec said to me one day“ everything about you is Harlem”. Thus, the name, Harlem’s Cash.


What were your experiences growing up in Harlem and what led you to music?

I was always into music. I was raised by good parents and a good family who always tried to get me into the arts, tap dance, everything. Growing up, I would always see 2 sides of Harlem, the street side, which was the dark side, filled with drugs and poverty and the fancy side, when people would get dressed to go out, and that was more so the Hollywood aspect of it. There was the wrong path and the right path. I chose the wrong path which then led me to the right path. As a child, I was really into poetry. I would see people on the corner battling, and that’s really what started the rap thing. I would be at home rhyming with my friends on the phone, so the first time I went out to battle, it was like 50 dudes standing around. My friends was like “go Jonathan”, this was before Cash, and they was like “yeah, go Jonathan”. (laughs) I was like “oh man”, but once I heard the ooh’s and aah’s, that was it.


New mixtape dropping, “On My Way to Harlemwood 1.5, Government Approved”. Tell me about it.

On My Way to Harlemwood 1.0, is the original mixtape, but on 1.5, all of the tracks been remixed by The Government.

Now you're working The Government on your mixtapes, who were initially discovered by The Roots. How did that collaboration come about?

Well I met them while I was in this group called ACES and they came through to meet Midi Mafia, who was working with us on the album. We exchanged numbers, and after ACES parted ways, we just kept in touch. It took a while for me to cultivate my sound, but they liked my vision so we just went with it. At first, the music came off sounding kind of like rock and alternative so we started experimenting with it, adding hip hop or whatever. Now, I’ve heard my music being compared to Santigold or MIA, but I’m not trying to blend with any genre. My sound is eccentric. I’m not the everyday rapper.



The Root of Evil was your first solo project. How was it transitioning from working in a group to becoming a solo artist?

In a group you have to really hold back. You can’t get as personal as you would like on a record because you only have like 16 bars and the other group members may not see or agree with your vision. As a solo artists, I can really get more personal and go in depth into the subject that I want.


How do you feel about the overall state of music and mainstream artists vs. independent artists?

I don’t really feel like music is taking a hit right now. I feel like the artists are coming out selling millions of records and using the same gimmick over and over to sell records. I like artists who take a chance with their music to do something different. Like Lil Wayne and Kanye West. When an artist is that daring, it shows that they’re growing in music. I mean you look on these videos and you see the same people, the same girls, everything is the same. I’m trying to give you something to think about more than to just dance to in the club and being fly. The advantage that independent artists have is that they don’t have to be held back by a major label.


What artists do you listen to and would like to work with?

“I don’t really listen to other artists. (laughs) I find that it jades your perception. I mean there’s a reason why you have a million records using auto tune (laughs). I’m actually inspired by a lot of artists that I listened to as a child. My family is from the West Indies, so I grew up hearing Beres Hammond, Barrington Levy, Shabba. I’m an 80’s baby, a true 80’s baby (laughs) so I listened to Biggie, early Nas, Wu-Tang, NWA, Clipse, when they first came out, and Jeezy. I think Kanye is dope. Even his fashion sense is crazy.”

Ok so now we’re gonna do a quick word association. I’ll give you the word and you give me another word or words you would associate with it.

"Ok, ok."

Harlem- “Harlem’s Cash, I embody it.”

Hip Hop- “Ever growing.”

Truth- “Lies.”

Progression- “Me.”

Be sure to check out Harlem's Cash at WWW.MYSPACE.COM/HARLEMSCASH


Check out the newest release from On My Way to Harlemwood, 1.5, Government Approved,
GO HARD (GOVERNMENT REMIX)- HARLEM'S CASH FT. THE KID DAYTONA

New D. Woods!!

You all remember the Atl native from Making the Band's Danity Kane. Alot were skeptical if the group would reunite and if not, what would happen to members Aubrey and D. Woods.

Finally we get to hear what Woods has been up to. The single "On My Side" has been leaked from her already released mixtape Independence Day, Vol. 1.




To download INDEPENDENCE DAY, VOL. 1, click HERE!!

T.I. and Ludacris' Producers Seeking Indepedent Artists

Found this post and wanted to share it...

ATTENTION ALL INDEPENDENT ARTIST!!!!! NARD & B PRODUCTIONS!

To All my Independent Artist looking for quality Production, Nard & B are here to get you right!!!

If you are looking for Industry level production from the Hottest Production Duo in the South Grand Hustle's Nard & B hit me up at Blackwerks@grandhustle.com or my Partner Jagger at Bruceb@grandhustle.com or jaggerwerks@gmail.com.SERIOUS INQUIRES ONLY!!!!


Track Record:
T.I.
Big Kuntry King
Alfamega
Plies
Young Dro
Yung LA
Maino
Ludacris
Young Joc
8-Ball & MJG
Yo Gotti
B.G.
Slick Pulla
and many others...


Come get some of this heat while you can!!!!

Meet Mateo...

I’m a true fan of independent artists. I love searching the web for new and undiscovered talent with fresh sound. Which brings me to this artist. Mateo.

This Cinncinati, Ohio native has creating quite a buzz in the underground world for quite sometime now. His debut album Human, infuses melodic and smooth vocals with alternative instrumentation, creating an interesting and unforgettable sound.

New Lil Wayne "Prom Queen"

And here's the new one from the martian himself.

What yall think...

New Musiq Soulchild "Beautiful"

And as I am a true soul music fan at heart, check out the new video from Musiq. Love it.

Musiq Soulchild - "sobeautiful"


You?

New Kid Cudi "Day 'N' Nite"

check out the new one from Kid Cudi....



Feelin' it?

Ledisi Performing at Birchmere Music Hall

Ledisi will be peforming at Birchmere Music Hall Thursday, Feb. 26. Show starts at 7:30 pm so be sure to check out www.birchmere.com to see how you can get tickets!! See you there!

Birchmere Music Hall
3701 Mt. Vernon Ave
Alexandria, VA 22305

For All You Jesse Boykins Fans

In case you haven't seen the newest release from talented New York native Jesse Boykins, Pantyhose. He's been making waves on the underground soul music scene since his debut album Dopamine: My Life On My Back last year. Be sure to catch his video on BET J's Soul Sessions.

Gotta love dem throwbacks

I'm bout to take dat ass back...

Lets see how many of you remember this joint, Lords of the Underground "Here Come the Lords"

Didn't realize how many greeks were in this vid, shout out to the Que's and Alpha's!!!

Update...

Hey peoples...haven't posted in a while but I shall be back soon. I'm still in the midst of getting the online magazine up and running. The projected date for release is mid April at the latest. Hopefully it will be up by next month, keeping my fingers crossed.

Still in search of independent artists, producers, and songwriters to be featured in the mag, as well as writers to contribute. Hit me up at ampdminds@gmail.com.

And I'm out....

Rihanna's Photo Released

Didn't want to post the picture but I did want to comment on the recent release of Rihanna's photo which was taken immediately after the alleged Chris Brown assault. At first I was a little hesitant to make a comment about it, but the picture says it all. I've heard alot of opinions about the incident prior to the release of this photo, and alot of people were surprisingly jumping to the defense of Chris Breezy. But now....its a wrap. Now personally, I've heard of instances and even witnessed situations where a woman was pushing a man to the point of no return. BUT NOTHING EXCUSES THIS PEOPLE!! Maybe gives a reason as to why he OR she would hit their significant other, but nothing excuses it. Period. Damn, just imagine your little sister or your mother getting beaten and bruised like that. I don't know about you but...I AIN'T HAVIN' IT!!!!

Keeping both in my prayers, I would suggest you do the same.

Click here for the picture.

I'm No Racist But...

A friend sent me this link today, I must say it just really got me disturbed inside. The post is regarding a debate between Michael Eric Dyson (if you don't know who he is, PLEASE do your research people) and Attorney General Eric Holder about racism and America's inability to speak truthfully about the matter.

Now I'm no politican and I very seldom watch MSNBC, CNN, and I NEVER watch Fox News, but this post has ignited something within that I had to post it immediately.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Now I'm no racist, but I do feel as though when everyone, Black, White, Hispanic, whoever, gets inside the privacy of their own homes, they let lose. And I ain't talking about unfastening belts and kicking off shoes. I believe that to a certain degree, everyone has an ounce of racism within. Some more than others. So when you open up that dialogue to the public to ignite conversation and to promote "change" and unity among races, what is really going to happen?

Thanks for the inspiration Phylli!!

Speak on it...

cRE8TIVE mINDS: KANYE WEST "WELCOME TO HEARTBREAK"

Love this song/video. Directed by Nabil. Thanks Kanye..I needed that.

iNDIE iNSIGHT: HARLEM'S CASH

In a culture oversaturated with amateurish rappers, emerges the next best thing in music – Harlem’s Cash. A name he proudly has tattooed on his wrist, best explains who he is and his affinity for Harlem, New York. Growing up, in Harlem New York, the Mecca of African American Culture; Harlem has always cultivated the arts, the ever evolving fashion trends and it’s music. Rapper, Harlem’s Cash was like a sponge soaking up all the arts, music and everything Harlem had to offer, not to mention crime and poverty. Being a product of his environment, Cash decided he would hustle his way out of these surroundings, using a talent he perfected on the corners of Harlem; battling anyone lyrically inclined, soon after taking those skills and bringing that fire into the studio. With a look that stands a part from the rest; you may notice this is not your ordinary rapper. For one thing, this stylish emcee is always freshly dressed – mixing urban street fashion with high-end couture.

As a member of the ACES, with rappers Loaded Lux and The Kid Daytona, he had received his first lesson in the music business. However, with conflicting visions for the group – the group disbanded in 2006. At the time, It forced the budding lyricist to develop and hone a style all his own, free of the influences of the wave of hip hop that was popular at the time. On his own, the budding emcee began his quest to create his own sound, far from his battling days on 8th Avenue. His first solo mixtape, The Root of Evil the young lyricist got to work with platinum producers the likes of Dame Grease, Ron Browz and Midi Mafia just to name a few. “To date this body of work was dearest to me. Not only was the quality of music up to standard, but what it took to create it -- makes it so special” expresses Harlem’s Cash.

Cash’s creative expression grows with each new studio session, and the diversity of tracks on his new album is indicative of his growth. Creating quality music has always been Cash’s main objective – an eclectic fusion of Rock, Hip Hop, Urban, Alternative, R&B and Pop that forms into his uniqueness of a welcomed new sound. With production from sonic architects, Government Beats Cash undeniably offers his fans a hybrid of musical style. Their need for live instrumentation and solid beats make it clear that they are more than your “fictional bling talk” and “big booty” music rehash. Harlem’s Cash’s new mixtape album HARLEMwood CASHifornia due out in October 2008 is undoubtedly a macrocosm of a fresh new sound accompanied by genius lyrical play. "From the songs to the production to the whole direction of the album is crazy! The whole album is telling a story, my story” explains Harlem’s Cash.

Presently, Cash has started a movement, "A Beautiful Mind" is the best way to describe Harlem’s Cash and the multi-talented Dj L The Master Key the in-house dee jay for BET's hit show 106 and Park, popular world tour dee jay and actor. The two have combined forces under the assumed title, "A Beautiful Mind." Cash and Dj L have created an outlet for those who think outside of the box and strive not to be ordinary; in house producers, Government Beats were a perfect fit. Their instrumentation and musicality has assisted in the transition from street corner rapper to artist. In just a short time, Cash has already done what few in his genre can accomplish - get people excited about music again. For more information on Harlem’s Cash check him out on www.myspace.com/HarlemsCash or http://www.harlemscash.blogspot.com/ .

Bio courtesy of GlowConnection

Click here to check out Harlem's Cash mixtape.

AMPLIFIED MINDS ONLINE MAGAZINE

I am pleased to announce that I will be presenting my new online magazine AMPLIFIED MINDS in the near future. The new site will be dedicated to showcasing some of the most talented independent artists, songwriters, producers, and so much more! I've been wanting to do this for a while, as I am IN LOVE with independent music. I had another site itmusic.wordpress.com which was going to feature independent music as well, but I decided to stick with Amp'd Minds. The magazine will feature bios and interviews from these individuals, as well as providing them with an outlet to promote their music and/or events, while the actual blog will go behind the scenes of various interviews, studio sessions, and productions to add a personal and intimate touch to the site.

Over time, I will begin to revamp this blog, to further express the intention of the magazine.

So if you or anyone you know is interested in being featured, please send inquiries to ampdminds@gmail.com!!!!!

And in case you missed it...

I didn't actually watch the Grammy's in it's entirety, it was a little to boring for me. Did catch Adele, "Dead and Gone", Radiohead, and "Swagger Like Us" performance and I must say 3 out the 4 performances were the highlight for me. Guess the Grammy's is starting to lose it's luster, much like the industry.

Here's "Swagger Like Us" performed by too many artists that I refuse to list each one. Oh, and check Kanye's new do. Straight 80's. LMFAO!!!




What did you think of the Grammy's?

1 Question...WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON WITH CHRIS BREEZY!!!?

Is it just me or is it extemely weird that Chris Brown was arrested on domestic violence charges? Lil Chris Breezy? LOL. Not funny domestic violence is a serious matter...smh. There saying the victim is none other than Miss Rehab herself, Rihanna. Wow who knew...

Official story here.

Lil' Wayne: Katie Couric Grammy Special Interview

Well in case you missed Lil Wayne's interview with Katie Couric last night, like I did, here it is. He kind of caught me off guard with the "sizzurp" and weed break-downs, but whatever floats your boat Weezy.

Take a look.

Sunday Best Auditions

For those of you who are interested, Sunday Best will be having auditions in DC on January 31. Come audition, you might become a star!!!

Other audition locations include:

Atlanta: January 10-11
Washington, DC: January 31
Chicago: January 25

So if you missed you chance in Atlanta, you still have time to get to DC and Chicago to audition.

Jan 25, ChicagoHyatt Regency McCormick Place2233 South Martin L. King Drive,Chicago, Illinois, USA 60616-9985
Jan 31, Washington, D.C.BET Studio 21235 W. St. NE

New Jazmine Sullivan

Get your urban news at DimeWars.Com

lovin' this song...

Charlie Bmore 'N B.I.G.

And because I'm such a B.I.G. fan and everything surrounding his life, I found this article with Allhiphop.com and Charlie Baltimore very interesting. She goes into dept about her problem with the bio pic, and how she and B.I.G. both knew the real deal between the two. Take a peek...

AllHipHop.com: People have been questioning why you were left out of the
film.

Charli Baltimore: From what I’m understanding, the one
particular scene which I guess bothered me more than anything was that me and
B.I.G. were in a really, really, traumatic car accident. I almost died in that
car accident and for them to downplay it—and again I didn’t see the movie so I
don’t know how much it’s downplayed or not—but for them to downplay it the way
that it was, the way that it occurred…it bothered me. That’s what probably
bothers me more so than anything. I don’t usually do too many interviews
regarding Big.

For the entire interview click here.

Talent Who?

Beyonce, Jazmine Sullivan, Rihanna, Jordin Sparks, Mary J. Blige. Just a few female artists I’m sure everyone is all too familiar with. Club-infused instrumentation along with catchy lyrics proves to be what’s “happening”. Show a little skin and you’ve hit the jackpot. So with that said, what ever happened to talent? Yes I’m fully aware that the Whitney’s and Chaka Khan’s are long gone, but does that mean that music has to give up full hope of finding true to life talent, neglecting it for a few commercial radio hits and a myriad of “I look better than I can sing” annotations. Now everyone knows that the music industry is not at all what it once was. The ever so evolving money grubbing monster has been constantly repackaging the same concepts and ideology for years, but with a twist. Money is the sole purpose of the industry execs and because of this, the art form we once held on a pedestal and admired so dearly, has demolished. There are a chosen few who stick out from the bunch and their longevity in the industry has proven so.

Upon hitting the scene in 2005 with her debut album, Music of the Sun, no one knew who Rihanna was or how long her name would even remain a memory. A few years later, the world was reintroduced to a new, much edgier rock star, with the intent to sell, sell, sell. And sell she has done. Her album Good Girl Gone Bad has sold over 7 million copies worldwide, leading her to go double platinum. But does the amount of commercial success determine your artistic ability? And yes her style is crazy hot...but.....does that solidify her talent in the industry? While I am reluctant to admit it, yes I did buy her latest album, I am disappointed to say, however, that the answer is no. Granted this youngster has the right gimmick for success by changing up the image, while finding time to actually produce a cross-over record, but is she talented? Can she sing?

Beyonce, in her own right, has managed to stay around for quite a bit. From her days in the popular group Destiny’s Child to her success as a solo artist, Beyonce has proven that she has a spot in the music industry, and it is very much near the top. The self-proclaimed “Diva”, has received numerous awards for her albums “Dangerously In Love” and “BDay”, and continues to make the transition into the acting world. And while I am a fan of her previous work, I must say the recently released “I Am…Sasha Fierce” was a disappointment. It was unsettling for me to see a maturing Beyonce doing songs my 12 year old niece sings word for word. Beyonce decided to release the alter-ego themed album to showcase the feisty Sasha Fierce, while staying true to herself by adding the more toned down ballads. Okay concept, bad execution. Beyonce has taken a much publicized journey from young teen pop star to a phenomenal female entertainer, and her music should serve as a reflection. Her faithful and loyal fans have grown with her and it’s important she remain truthful to her fans, perpetuating that relationship, which can be an intimate one in some cases. Listeners not only want to hear about the same way you used the club as your weekly stomping grounds, grabbing the attention of onlookers with your contagious swagger.

Growing up to the sounds and infectious lyrics of Mary J. Blige, I was inspired by her music more so than her looks and style. Her voice captivated me and gave a new, rich and much deep meaning to music for me. When she first stepped on the scene, Mary’s songs were filled with saddened ballads of her proclaiming “no I’m not gon’ cry/I’m not gon’ cry/I’m not gon’ shed no tears.” But as time progressed, so did her music. Today Mary sings proudly about finding happiness and anxiously trying to put a choke-hold on it, which proves as a testament that music must grow and evolve, as does the artist.

In my opinion, the older you grow and mature as an artist, your music should be a reflection of some sort, keeping in mind that the listening audience has grown with you.