Made By Me
Monday, January 31, 2011
Hot Video Alert: Jessie J feat. B.o.B. - Price Tag
Jessie J. is back with her HOTLY anticipated second single, "Price Tag," featuring American rapper B.o.B. The single is decidedly more POP than her successful debut single, "Do It Like A Dude," which went on to the #2 spot on the Official UK Singles chart. With it's reggae undertones and up-beat GIRL POWER lyrics "Price Tag" is a worthy follow up to a an amazing first single. While not as hard hitting as "Do It Like A Dude," "Price Tag" really showcases Jessie J's softer side which I quite like. The fun video, directed by Emil Nava, (who previously directed "Do It Like A Dude" and most recently - Parade's debut video for "Louder") features Jessie J. dressed up like a sexified music box ballerina, a trashy marionette and a variety of other "youthful" fan-TASTY characters. "Price Tag" is the second single to be lifted off of Jessie J.'s forthcoming debut record, Who You Are, due out on Universal March 28th in the UK and on Lava/Universal Records in the States on April 12th. The single is out now on iTunes in the UK.
Check out Jessie J on the web:
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Lauren Pritchard Releases New 'Stuck' Remix, Announces U.S. Tour
I wanted to share this brilliant remix by Adj Buffone of Lauren Pritchard's forthcoming new single, "Stuck," which I talked about earlier last year. Set to be released February 28th on Island Records, "Stuck" is Pritchard's 5th single of her critically acclaimed debut album Wasted In Jackson. Listen to the Adj Remix below:
Lauren Pritchard - Stuck (Adj Remix) by charmfactory
Produced and written with Eg White Wasted In Jackson shows a lot of depth and raw emotion, considering Pritchard is a mere 23 years old. Listen to the original single version of "Stuck" HERE.
Wasted in Jackson is out now digitally (HERE) in the U.S. but will be out physically on February 22nd through Universal. Make sure you catch Lauren in a city near you when she goes out on tour in the U.S. this March. Kicking off in Little Rock, Pritchard will be joined on tour by Matt White and Brendan James. Too bad she's not stopping by Boston.
Tour Dates:
March 17/Juanita’s/Little Rock, AR
March 18/Poor David’s Pub/Dallas, TX
March 19/Cypress Saloon/Cypress, TX
March 24/The Soiled Dove/Denver, CO
March 25/Logan Arthouse and Cinema/Logan, UT
March 26/The Reef/Boise, ID
March 27/The Tractor/Seattle, WA
March 31/Red Devil Lounge/San Francisco, CA
April 1/Hotel Café/Los Angeles, CA
April 2/LeStat’s/San Diego, CA
April 3/Rhythm Room/Phoenix, AZ
April 7/The Bottle Neck/Lawrence, KS
April 8/Fine Line Music/Minneapolis, MN
April 9/High Noon Saloon/Madison, WI
April 10/Firebird/St. Louis, MO
April 11/The Ark/Ann Arbor, MI
April 12/Space/Chicago, IL
April 14/Birdy’s/Indianapolis, IN
April 15/The Basement/Columbus, OH
April 16/Musica/Akron, OH
April 17/Diesel/Pittsburgh, PA
Hot Video Alert: Alesha Dixon feat. Jay Sean - Every Little Part Of Me
"Every Little Part Of Me" might very well be the best song off of Alesha Dixon's new album, The Entertainer. Produced by Slick & Magic and written by Michael Hannides, Anthony Hannides, Alan Sampson and Jay Sean, this up-tempo electro-pop/R&B single is as catchy as anything out right now by Taio Cruz. Jay Sean is the perfect addition to an already near perfect slice of pop heaven and Dixon is a vision in the clip (BELOW).
The Entertainer was released in November on Asylum/Atlantic Records, where it peaked at #84. The song fared slightly better on the UK R&B charts where it was a Top 20 hit, peaking at #16. I have to say that Dixon's plans for U.S. domination aren't looking too good right now. While lead single, "Drummer Boy" did alright, debuting at #15 on the UK Singles chart, follow up single "Radio" was a disappointment, coming in at #46. Here's hoping "Every Little Part Of Me" improves upon it's predecssor when it's released on February 27th. Backed by remixes from Steve Smart & WestFunk, Culture Shock, Mike Deliquent Project and Self Taught Beats, it looks like Dixon is hoping for a club hit at the very least. Check out two of the mixes HERE and HERE.
Check out Alesha on the web:
Hot Video Alert: Ellie Goulding - Lights
FINALLY. Ellie Goulding is releasing "Lights" as her next single. The Richard Stannard (AKA Biffco)-produced single has always been one of my favorite tracks off Goulding's Bright Lights re-release and was originally supposed to be the British singer/songwriter's fifth single before the powers that be decided to release "Your Song" instead. The decision certainly seemed to pay off as "Your Song" became Goulding's highest chart debut yet, peaking at #2 on the UK Singles Chart - still - I was holding out hope that "Lights" would see the light of day as a single. Lucky me! We now have the music video and word that the Goulding/Stannard/Ash Howes co-penned track will be the sixth single for Goulding and single number two off of Bright Lights. While there's no official release date yet for "Lights" we can likely expect it sometime soon, given that the video premiered on January 16th. Speaking on the video, it's definitely Goulding's most mainstream POP video yet. Nothing crazy, just Goulding dancing around with some strobe lights and other cool visual FX. She's got a tambourine, some drums and some sexy outfits. Not gonna lie but I kinda like it. Thanks Prophet for the heads up on this video.
As previously mentioned, U.S. fans can expect to see "Lights" appear as the title track on Goulding's forthcoming U.S. debut album when it's released on Cherrytree Records March 8th. In the meantime, check out the video for "Lights" below and download Ellie Goulding's debut U.S. EP, An Introduction To Ellie Goulding on iTunes HERE.
Check out Ellie Goulding on the web:
Hot Video Alert: Patrick Wolf - The City
"The City" is the second single from Patrick Wolf's forthcoming fifth studio album, Lupercalia. Scheduled for release on March 14th, "The City" was both written and produced by Wolf. The song is quirky yet catchy - in typical Patrick Wolf tradition, with an emphasis on the quirky. It has elements of pop, elements of folk and bits of rock and electronica sprinkled throughout - very David Bowie-esque, if you ask me.
Patrick Wolf - The City (Richard X Remix) by Your Army
The video (BELOW) was directed by Kinga Burza and filmed in Santa Monica, California. Also worth a listen is the new Richard X remix of "The City," which you can listen to above. Lupercalia is due out May 30th on Hideout/Mercury Records. Can't wait for this one!
Check out Patrick Wolf on the web:
Hot Video Alert: Alexis Jordan - Good Girl
Hard to believe pop singer Alexis Jordan is only 18 years old. What a voice! In the video for her new single "Good Girl," Jordan struts her stuff around looking all fresh faced as if she'd just finished filming a Neutrogena commercial. In addition to being a great singer Jordan appears to have some quality dance moves down as well.
Jordan first rose to fame in 2006 when she audition for the first season of America's Got Talent. Singing a rendition of Whitney Houston's "I Have Nothing," Jordan made it to the next round but was eliminated in the semi finals. After America's Got Talent, the South Carolina-native and her family moved to Atlanta and Jordan started releasing music on her YouTube channel. By 2008 Jordan's YouTube videos were racking up millions of views, ultimately getting her noticed by production super team Stargate (Beyonce, Brandy) who had her fly to New York and record some material. During her time working with Stargate, Jay-Z caught wind of the talented young singer and signed her to his label, StarRoc/Roc Nation/Sony Music.
First single "Happiness" was co-written by Joel Thomas Zimmerman (AKA deadmau5), Autumn Rowe, and co-written and produced by Tor Erik Hermansen and Mikkel S. Eriksen. While failing to chart on the Billboard Hot 100, "Happiness" went straight to the top of both the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play and Hot Dance Airplay charts. The single also peaked at #3 on the UK Singles chart and #3 in Australia where it's been certified Gold, shipping over 35,000 units.
Single #2, "Good Girl" is due for release in the UK on February 20th, followed by the release of her self titled debut album on February 28th. So far "Good Girl" has been remixed by UK dance outfit Freemasons. Considering "Happiness" was remixed by the Wideboys, Dave Aude, Jump Smokers and Michael Woods, I can only imagine that "Good Girl" will also get some more remixes. Alexis Jordan is a beautiful young talent. Catchy, slick dance pop. That's what I like. Bring on more of the same! Download the "Happiness" remixes on iTunes HERE.
Good Girl BMF
Uploaded by BlakMusicFirst. - Watch more music videos, in HD!
Check out Alexis Jordan on the web:
Hot Video Alert: David Guetta feat. Rihanna - Who's That Chick?
Check out the newly released video for David Guetta's Rihanna collaboration, "Who's That Chick." This is actually the third video shot for the song, the first was used to promote Doritos' global music event 'Late Night.' The most recent video, directed by Jonas Åkerlund (who's currently working on the new HIAM video for Britney Spears), the cartoonishly colorful video features David Guetta DJing on a space ship while Rihanna dances on a funky, space disco somewhere amongst the stars. While the portion of the video featuring Guetta is new, the footage of Rihanna comes from the original Doritos' footage.
"Who's That Chick" was originally released on November 22nd. It peaked on the Billboard Hot 100 at #51 and at #1 on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Songs chart. The song is currently at #37 on the Top 40 airplay charts and climbing fast. "Who's That Chick" fared better in the UK where it managed to peak at #6 on the UK Singles chart and went all the way to the top of the UK Dance chart. "Who's That Chick" is the latest single from Guetta, who's 2009 album, One Love spawned such hits as "When Love Takes Over," "Sexy Bitch," "Gettin' Over You" and "Memories." A re-issue of the album, One More Love is available now featuring 8 of Guetta's biggest hits including "Who's That Chick." What's more, Guetta has paired up with YouTube lip-syncing sensation Keenan Cahill on a video megamix. Check that out HERE.
David Guetta will be attending the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards on February 13th to see if he wins 'Best Remixed Recording' for his mix of Madonna's "Revolver." Winning this year would make Guetta a 2-time Grammy winner, following last years win in the same category. Currnently, Guetta is hard at work on his next record, due out sometime in 2011. Expect him to preview some new tunes when he appears at the Ultra Music Festival in Miami on March 27th.
Check out David Guetta on the web:
Fenech-Soler Sign to Warner Brothers' Label B-Unique, Release Debut US Single in March
Starting out in Kings Cliffe, a small village in the hinterlands of Northamptonshire, brothers Ben and Ross Duffy joined up with friend Daniel Soler and started to make music. Tapping into their influences - The Chemical Brothers, Daft Punk, Soulwax, SMD - the boys started writing their own electronic tracks using laptops and synthesizers. Drawing from more diverse influences - George Benson, N.E.R.D., The Whispers, Michael Jackson and Queens of The Stone Age - the band began to flesh out their sound. Eventually the another mutual friend, Andrew Lindsay came along and broght another element to the group - live drums and synths - an ingredient which would help turn their music into what it is today.
Starting out playing small clubs, Fenech-Soler gathered experience under their wings and started to make a name for themselves based on their live sets. The band's big break came when French DJ/remixer Alan Braxe asked to release one of their songs - "The Cult of Romance" - which Radio 1 DJ Annie Mac would later feature on her 2009 compilation. Groove Armada saw the foursome play a party and subsequently asked Fenech-Soler to join them on tour, even featuring Ben as lead vocalist on the single, "Paper Romance." What a whirlwind!
"Demons" will be the first single released in the U.S. The single is "a dizzying shot of Parisian synths and pop melody, a typically immediate tale of late night confusion and self doubt, propelled with urgent dance floor beats." Check it out on February 7th in the UK and on March 15th in the US. Expect some HOT remixes to boot. A full length album and U.S. tour dates are expected so stay tuned!
Check out Fenech-Soler on the web:
Hot Video Alert: Avril Lavigne - What The Hell
Well, here we have the new Avril Lavigne video and, just like I said about the song, I like it but I'm worried about what other tricks Lavigne has to pull out of her sleeve with this album. She's already said that "What The Hell" is the only really "POP" song on the album so what does that leave us with? I guess we will have to wait and see, but in the meantime let's take a peak at the video for "What The Hell."
Directed by Marcus Raboy (Shakira, Dixie Chicks) the video portrays a typical rebellious Lavigne playing hard to get with a sexy male love interest. Despite being riddled with obvious product placement (Sony, Black Star and Forbidden Rose - Lavigne's own perfume lines) the video is a fun little romp and the perfect parallel to the Max Martin-produced song. Watch out for a cameo by Lavigne's own mother, who appears as a store clerk in Abbey Dawn. Precious.
Chart performance-wise, "What The Hell" seems to be doing alright. It debuted on the Billboard Hot 100 at #13 and on the Billboard Hot Digital Songs chart at #6. The song managed to peak at #8 on the Canadian Hot 100 and debuted at #4 on Canada's Digital Songs chart, becoming her third best debut to date following "Girlfriend" and "Keep Holding On." Over in the UK, "What The Hell" debuted at #29, becoming her twelfth Top 30 hit.
Watch the video (BELOW), download "What The Hell" on iTunes HERE and look out for Avril Lavigne's fourth studio album, Goodbye Lullaby, due out on March 2nd through RCA Records.
Check out Avril Lavigne on the web:
Liam Gallagher's New Band, Beady Eye Set to Drop Debut Record in March
Formed by three former members of the multi-platinum selling rock group Oasis, rock outfit Beady Eye is prepping to unleash it's music on North America this March. Due out March 1st on Dangerbird Records, Different Gear, Still Speeding will mark the bands North American debut. Written by the band (Liam Gallagher, Gem Archer, Andy Bell and Chris Sharrock) and recorded at RAK Studios in London, Beady Eye wrangled in Grammy Award-winning producer Steve Lillywhite (U2, Dave Matthews Band, The Smiths) to serve as producer on their debut. "The Roller," is the album's lead single and was serviced to radio last Monday with a digital release on iTunes expected sometime next month. You can also check out the recently released video for "The Roller," below.
Fans have been waiting new Beady Eye material ever since the group first released "Bring On The Light" (download HERE) last fall, where it was downloaded or played more than 350,000 times in a 24-hour period. Signing the band to Dangerbird Records is a big deal for CEO Jeff Castelaz, a longtime fan.
"Like just about everyone else on the planet, I've been a fan of Liam's voice since I first heard it, and I'm thrilled to be a part of his evolution as an artist," Jeff Castelaz, CEO of Dangerbird said. "Beady Eye is a fresh new act with its own sound, and we're honored to have them join Dangerbird's gang."
Check out Beady Eye on the web:
Hot Video Alert: Parade - Louder
This is just what I've been craving! A fresh new girl band from the UK! The girl band pond seems to have all but dried up in recent years, in the UK especially, which is most concerning considering how many great girl bands have come out across the pond - the Spice Girls, Atomic Kitten, Sugababes, All Saints, Girls Aloud, etc. Split ups and splinterings, indefinite hiatuses and failed comebacks...it's all just been too much for me to take! Enter Parade to make me feel all better.
Parade is a 5-piece girl group (Emily, Sian, Bianca, Jessica & Lauren) signed to Asylum/Atlantic Records and their first official single is called "Louder," due out March 7th. Formed in 2010, Parade have keeping busy, working on their debut album as well as going on tour with Shakira and X-Factor winner Alexandra Burke (look HERE for a list of tour dates). The album, which as of right now is untitled and due in the Spring, features top notch collaborations with producers The Fairground (Jay Sean, Alesha Dixon) and Grammy-winner Thaddis 'Kuk' Harrell (Beyonce, Rihanna). The video for first single, "Louder," was directed by Emil Nava, who most recently directed the video for Jessie J's breakout hit "Do It Like A Dude." The single nicely showcases each of the girls talents, calling to mind some of the classic Spice Girls videos from the late 90s/early 2000s. The song itself is a fun, flirty pop song reminiscent of something we might hear from The Saturdays. Looking forward to hearing more from Parade in 2011! Watch the video for "Louder" below and watch this space for more details on their debut album.
Check out Parade on the web:
Marsha Ambrosius Set to Release Debut Solo Album in March
Back in August I did a post on ex-Floetry member and current J Records solo artist Marsha Ambrosius' first single "Hope She Cheats on You (with a Basketball Player)." The song was a great re-introduction for me as I had loved Floetry back when they were making music together and I've been eagerly awaiting more details on her latest solo project.
Ambrosius has a powerful voice that shines and a point of view and opinion that really comes through in current single, the emotionally-charged "Far Away." The video for "Far Away" was conceptulized and directed by manager Julius Erving III and tackles bullying, gay bashing and suicide - 3 issues that have been all too prevalent in the news recently. These issues are all deeply concerning and deeply personal for Ambrosius, who lost a friend to suicide. According to Ambrosius in a recent interview with the Associated Press:
"I lost a friend and I've had friends that have attempted suicide. There are people that don't have a voice to speak out and show what is happening and what can happen, so I just wanted people to see the honesty in it and be aware." {SOURCE}"Far Away" is the second single to be lifted off of Ambrosius' new album, Late Nights & Early Mornings, an album on which she took the creative reigns, writing and producing the majority. Aiding Ambrosius in the creation of the soulful new record we have Alicia Keys, Dre & Vidal (producers of Floetry's hit single "Say Yes"), Just Blaze, Rich Harrison, and more. Ambrosius readily admits that there's a strong male influence in her songwriting. Among her inspirations - Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder and Prince. In speaking on her songwriting, Ambrosius is honest and candid:
“My pen and my point of view has a certain aggression to it because I’ve listened to a lot of male influenced music, which I think makes me one of the most outspoken writers out here. Sometimes as a woman you don’t wanna say what’s on your mind for fear of being judged. But why wouldn’t I say it like that if that’s how I felt?”Fans can check out Marsha Ambrosius' singing "Portuguese Love" as a tribute to Teena Marie on BET Honors, set to air February 21st on BET. Meanwhile, check out the video for "Far Away" below and the stunning artwork for Late Nights & Early Mornings above. The tracklisting for the album can be seen here. Download "Far Away" (HERE) and "Hope She Cheats on You (with a Basketball Player)" HERE.
Late Nights & Early Mornings track listing:
1. Anticipation (Intro)
2. With You
3. Late Nights & Early Mornings
4. Hope She Cheats On You (With A Basketball Player)
5. Far Away
6. Lose Myself
7. Your Hands
8. I Want You To Stay
9. Sour Times
10. Tears
11. Chasing Clouds
12. The Break Up Song
13. Bonus Track - Butterflies (REMIX)
Check out Marsha Ambrosius on the web:
Jennifer Hudson Premieres New R. Kelly-Produced Single, Sophomore Album Drops in March
Jennifer Hudson is back in a big way. Her new R. Kelly-written single, "Where You At," premiered on January 24th and it's a stunning piece of R&B magic - a powerful comeback for a talented young lady who's been through quite a lot these past couple of years. "Where You At" is the first song to be lifted off the American Idol alum's sophomore album, I Remember Me, out March 22nd on Arista Records.
The title of the album, I Remember Me," comes from a poem written by Hudson, transformed into a beautiful song co-written by Ryan Tedder (Leona Lewis, Kelly Clarkson). In addition to Tedder, and R. Kelly Hudson collaborated with superstars and hit-songwriters including Alicia Keys, Swizz Beatz, Rich Harrison, Ne-Yo and Stargate. Sounds like a very promising follow up to a very successful debut.
“I’m excited about this album because it’s almost like a renewal for me, reflected through the chapters of my life,” comments Jennifer. “I’ve called it ‘I Remember Me’ because of the journey I’ve been on. I’ve learned that life constantly surprises you, no matter your plans. My fans have been so loyal, I feel like they have been on this journey with me and I can’t wait for them to hear the new album.”Hudson's first album peaked at #2 on the Billboard 200 as well as the R&B chart. Her first single, the Ne-Yo/Stargate-produced "Spotlight" peaked at #1 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop SongsBillboard Hot Dance Club Play chart, #8 on the chart and #24 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. As successful as her first Grammy Award-winning album was, there's always room for growth. According to Clive Davis, Chief Creative Officer of Sony Music Entertainment, her second album delivers and then some, securing Hudson as one of the great vocalists of our time.
"Jennifer is the voice of the new generation and she literally soars on her second album ‘I Remember Me.’ Jennifer fulfills all of her promise and all of the prophesies that she will be on that short list of great vocalists of our time."That's quite the vote of confidence from a man who knows his shit. The song is a masterclass in R&B balladry, showcasing Hudson's strength as a powerhouse vocalist. The range, the emotion, the sheer power of her voice all come through in "Where You At." So glad to have Jennifer back doing what she does. Jennifer Husdson's latest movie, Winnie, about the life of Winnie Mandela is currently in post-production and is expected out sometime this year.
Itchin' for new Jennifer Hudson music? Well after you listen to "Where You At" below why not go and download Jennifer's rendition of "Feelin' Good," recorded for Weight Watchers.
Check out Jennifer Hudson on the web:
Tinie Tempah To Appear on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Debut Album Due in May
The tides are shifting folks. I think my musical tastes may be evolving yet again. The more I listen to Tinie Tempah, the more I start to question my musical interests. While Hip-hop has never been a genre of music that I've shied away from, it's never been a genre that I've sought out or craved. In the past I would listen to a hip-hop song I liked over and over again, but that would be the end of it. Now, I don't know what it is with Tinie Tempah, but I just can't get enough.
Yes - there are HUGE differences between U.S. hip-hop and UK hip-hop. Artists like Tinie, N-Dubz, Example, Plan B, and Professor Green infuse different styles of music into their hip-hop beats, primarily of the the electronica persuasion. I think it's this melding of genres that initially captured my attention and made me listen. 2010 turned out to be a tremendous year for Patrick Chukwuemeka Okogwu Jr. (AKA Tinie Tempah). Not only did his debut album go #1 on the Official UK Album Charts but Tinie has two #1 hits ("Pass Out," "Written In The Stars") and four Top 5 singles under his belt. As if that wasn't enough to brag about, Tinie won two MOBO awards (including one for 'Best Newcomer'), was nominated for an MTV Europe Music Award and has 4 pending BRIT Award nominations this year (the BRITS will air on February 15th). WOW!
With the UK eating out of his palm, Tinie Tempah now turns his his sights on the US as he prepares to release his debut album in America this Spring. As the 'best selling UK newcomer of 2010,' Tinie hopes his international success translates into Stateside success. His debut album, Disc-Overy is due out on Capitol Records May 3rd and will feature songs from his UK debut as well as new material recorded just for the album's U.S. release. Things are looking up for Tinie as MTV has already named him an "Artist to Watch in 2011" and Entertainment Weekly named "Written In The Stars" the next big hit of 2011" (download it on iTunes HERE).
To help promote the album's U.S. release Tinie Tempah will be bringing his energy to various festivals including Coachella, Ultra Music Festival and SXSW. A full fledged U.S. tour is also expected in March with tour dates and venues to be announced shortly. In the meantime, catch Tinie Tempah in his first ever U.S. television performance this upcoming Wednesday, February 2nd when her performs "Pass Out" on Jimmy Kimmel Live. "Pass Out" is currently available to download on the iTunes U.S. store HERE.
Check out the videos for "Pass Out" and "Written In The Stars" below and the video for his next UK single, "Wonderman" featuring Ellie Goulding HERE. "Wonderman," is due out March 6th.
Check out Tinie Tempah on the web:
Hot Video Alert: Keren Ann - My Name Is Trouble
The video for Keren Ann's new single, "My Name Is Trouble" is simply stunning. While we do have back up dancers and some light choreography, both are understated here, shining the spotlight deservedly on Keren Ann and her beautiful voice.
“I was looking to create a robotic yet feminine atmosphere with a modern choreography—one that I am able to follow not being the greatest dancer of all times,” says Keren Ann of the video. “The dress by Alexandre Vauthier is very important. The director, Benjamin Seroussi, has his own true sense of aesthetics. I wanted a blend of architecture and motion with a twist of a religious cult.”
This worldly beauty was born in Cesaria, Israel and is now based in Paris and Tel Aviv - when she's not on the road, that is. 101, Keren Ann's sixth studio record, will be her first in nearly four years. Her first two records were recorded in French, followed by Not Going Anywhere back in 2004, released through EMI and featuring English recordings of four songs found on La Disparition, her second album. On the new album, Keren Ann brings "a new energy, a broader range," and "a sense of new ground broken." 101 is a collection 10 songs, each produced, composed, arranged and engineered by Keren Ann - a true labor of love. "Ultimately 101 embodies what Keren Ann`s music is all about: the songs, the voice, the sound."
To help support the release of 101 on March 22nd, through EMI's Blue Note Records, Keren Ann will be embarking on a 14-date North American Tour, kicking things off with two NYC shows at the Bell House and the Bowery Ballroom. Additionally, Keren Ann has the extreme honor of performing with ?uestlove (of The Roots) April 17th at the Kimmel Center as part of the Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts. Check out the list of tour dates below and see Keren Ann on tour. Also, make sure you pick up a copy of her new single "My Name Is Trouble" on iTunes (HERE) and watch the beautiful video for the song below.
Tour Dates:
April 17/Kimmel Center/Philadelphia, PA
June 7/Bell House/Brooklyn, NY
June 8/Bowery Ballroom/New York, NY
June 9/ICA/Boston, MA
June 11/The Warhol/Pittsburgh, PA
June 13/Lincoln Hall/Chicago, IL
June 14/Cedar Cultural Center/Minneapolis, MN
June 17/Triple Door/Seattle, WA
June 18/Biltmore Cabaret/Vancouver, BC
June 19/Doug Fir Lounge/Portland, OR
June 21/Yoshi’s/San Francisco, CA
June 23/Casbah/San Diego, CA
June 24/McCabes/Santa Monica, CA
June 25/Luckman Fine Arts Complex/Los Angeles, CA
June 28/Drake Hotel/Toronto, ONT
Check out Keren Ann on the web:
E-Type Back on the Scene with New Max Martin-Produced Single
It's been about 3 years since we've heard anything new out of Swedish singer/songwriter E-Type but the wait is finally over. After a recent dinner with his good friend, producer Max Martin, E-Type decided that the time to unleash his particular brand of europop unto the world was now. Pairing up with Shellback (P!nk, Britney Spears, Adam Lambert) and Savan Kotecha (Usher, Celine Dion, Leona Lewis) E-Type wrote this brand new future smash, "Back 2 Life." Produced by friend, Max Martin and Shellback the song is a welcome return to form for the artist, who's 15 years in the industry has brought out hits like "This Is The Way," "Here I Go Again," and "Set The World On Fire." While there are elements of past singles present in "Back 2 Life" the song is a bit of a sonic evolution for E-Type. Gone are all of the rap bits and big scale church choir choruses. "Back 2 Life" is a sleek, electro-pop track in line with what's blowing up at the clubs right now (i.e. David Guetta, Taio Cruz, Black Eyed Peas). Listening to some of E-Type's old material, it sounds a bit dated now. "Back 2 Life" brings his sound into the 21st century where he belongs.
The single premiered on Swedish radio earlier this month and was released digitally on January 21st. Fans can expect an EP to released through Universal Music Sweden later in 2011, including the single "Back 2 Life." Check out the song below as well as a remix from Ali Payami (Agnes, Basshunter). Nice to have E-Type back. Can't wait to hear what's next for him!
Check out E-Type on the web:
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Hot Video Alert: Tiffany Dunn - Too Bad I Love You
Once again I feel like I've been missing out. Pop singer Tiffany Dunn is already onto her second single and this is the first I've heard of her. "Too Bad I Love You" is a sexy electro-infused pop/R&B number that's loaded with hit potential. The follow up to "Shut The Front Door (Got My Girls)," Dunn has been clocking studio time with Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins (Destiny's Child, Janet Jackson). It was actually Jerkins himself that helped land Dunn her first recording contract with Epic Records. While in the studio together, Dunn and Jerkins created MAGIC, ending up with nearly 30 songs. Wow. That's called being productive!
Not only is Tiffany Dunn a talented singer/songwriter, the girl also has some serious moves as a dancer not to mention as a choreographer. Check out the video for "Too Bad I Love You" below and see for yourself just what this Triple Threat can do. The album sounds like it's going to be HOT collection of songs sure to please pop, R&B and dance aficionados alike.
"The full-length is shaping up to be an edgy collection of reggae and ska-tinged urban pop, shot through with Dunn’s natural swagger and winning charisma, and anchored by Jerkins’ hard-hitting beats. “Shut the Front Door (Got My Girls)” is an island-flavored female empowerment anthem, while the stuttering “OK” finds Dunn giving herself a post-break-up pep talk. “Too Bad I Love You” is a siren-fueled dancefloor clarion call, while the futuristic “Love Me Long Time” is an amalgam of dancehall, hip-hop, and electro-pop that Dunn delivers with appealing bounce." {SOURCE}This sounds AMAZING. I may have been slow to find Tiffany Dunn but I've got my eye on her now. Looking forward to hearing what she comes up with next. "I can't wait for people to hear it," she says. "I want these songs to help people get through the day because that's the type of songs they are. That's what music does for me" {SOURCE}. Sign up HERE for Tiffany Dunn's mailing list and receive a free download of her first single, the Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins-produced jam "Shut The Front Door (Got My Girls)." Dunn's debut album is due out in early 2011.
Check out Tiffany Dunn on the web:
G. Love Releases 'Milk And Sugar' Video, Announces SXSW Appearance and Tour
G. Love is going back to the basics with his latest release, "Milk And Sugar." The video, like his video for "Fixin' To Die," is basically just G. Love and his band doing their thing in the studio. No frills, no effects, just G. Love. The second track released off G. Love's new album Fixin' To Die (due out February 22nd on Brushfire Records), "Milk And Sugar" is a down home good time and a good indicator of things to come. G. Love's new album was recorded at Echo Moutain Studios in Asheville, NC and produced by the Avett Brothers (Scott & Seth) who also feature on both the title track as well as "Milk And Sugar."
Make sure you catch G. Love out on tour this March (TOUR DATES below). Also, if you plan on making an appearance at this year's SXSW festival in Austin, TX (March 11-20) make sure you catch G. Love's first ever time ever performing at the famous festival. Go get the title track off the album, "Fixin' To Die" for FREE HERE. The album is "a collection of rearranged traditionals, a classic cover, and a slew of G. Love originals, many simmering for over a decade, all sharing a common goal: to strip away all pretense and capture the original spirit and sound of G. Love has cultivated over his entire career but never fully embraced until now."
Tour Dates:
March 1/Nashville, TN/Exit/In
March 2/Greenville, SC/The Handlebar
March 3/Charleston, SC/Music Farm
March 4/Raleigh, NC/Lincoln Theatre
March 5/Norfolk, VA/The Norva
March 9/Charlotte, NC/Visulite Theatre
March 10/Jacksonville, FL/The Freebird
March 11/Orlando, FL/Beacham Theatre
March 12/St. Petersburg, FL/Jannus Landing
March 13/Ft. Lauderdale, FL/Culture Room
March 16/New Orleans, LA/House Of Blues
March 17-18/SXSW
March 19/Dallas, TX/House Of Blues
March 20/Corpus Christi, TX/House Of Rock
March 23/Little Rock, AK/Revolution Music Hall
March 24/Tulsa, OK/Cain’s Ballroom
March 25/Austin, TX/Antone’s
March 26/Houston, TX/House Of Blues
Check out G. Love on the web:
British Blues, Country Singer Delta Maid Releases Debut Single in April, Album Due in May
When I blogged about her before, I was getting my first taste. Now, a month later I'm completely head over heels in love with this singer/songwriter from England. Liverpudlian blues and country singer Delta Maid is the epitome of FRESH. Not only is she new to the music scene but she's singing a style of music not too widely known in Britain - the blues. Her debut single, the "country-fried hip shaker" "Of My Own" is due out on April 17th digitally (physically on April 18th) while her debut album, Outside Looking In is expected out in May 2011 through Geffen/Future Records.
Following a UK tour supporting Seth Lakeman, Delta Maid was invited to take part in Take That frontman, Gary Barlow's 40th birthday charity show on January 20th at London's Shepherds Bush Empire. Delta played to an audience of invited guests + 1,200 Gary Barlow/Take That fans who entered a lottery to get their hands on tickets. Profits for the gig went to some of Barlow's favorite charities. What an honor! In addition to this prestigious show, Delta has done shows in the past with the likes of Ray LaMontagne, Ellie Goulding and Martha Wainwright. I can't wait for this album. From the sound of it, it looks like it's going to be quite a stunning record.
" ‘Outside Looking In’ features the sultry, laidback swing of "‘Running On Empty’" and sunshine shot of ‘"Spend A Little Time"’ while ‘"The Changes Made"’ is an album highlight, a tender acoustic ballad worthy of Dolly Parton, laced intricately with Delta’s pure mountain vocal."Listen to "The Changes Made" below and download it for FREE on Delta's Facebook page. You can also get a nice taste of the sound we can expect to hear on the debut album by watching these two introductory clips, courtesy of Delta Maid. Definitely one of my most anticipated albums of the year. Check out this little assortment of February tour dates and try and see her live.
Tour Dates:
February 1st/LONDON/Wheelbarrow
February 8th/LONDON/Wheelbarrow
February 11th/LONDON/Barfly (HMV Next Big Thing)
February 15th/LONDON/Wheelbarrow
February 22nd/LONDON/Wheelbarrow
Delta Maid - The Changes Made by Delta Maid
Check out Delta Maid on the web:
Hot Video Alert: Jamiroquai - Lifeline
"Lifeline" is the third single to be released off Jamiroquai's 7th studio album, Rock Dust Light Star. This whole album is supposed to feature a more "organic" and "live" sound and I finally hear that here in their new single. Something is different here for sure. "White Knuckle Ride" to me didn't sound all that different from any other Jamiroquai single (which isn't necessarily a bad thing) I just was expecting something COMPLETELY different, and while "Lifeline" isn't COMPLETELY different it's different enough and quite refreshing. The video for the song features behind the scenes footage from Jamiroquai's Rock Dust Light Star tour, interspersed with clips of various promotional activities. While not an original video by any stretch of the imagination, the song is nicely showcased here.
Co-written by frontman Jay Kay and keyboardist Matt Johnson, "Lifeline" was released digitally last week in the UK. While the band evolve their sound they aren't giving up on their dance club appeal, evidenced by a massive remix package for "Lifeline" including mixes by Fred Falke, Buzz Junkies, Alan Braxe and Pirupa. Here's hoping for a U.S. release and tour for Rock Dust Light Star. To date the single has peaked at #99 on the Official UK Singles Chart. The album, meanwhile, has gone Gold in the UK, selling over 100,000 copies.
Check out Jamiroquai on the web:
Bobby Long Releases A Winter Tale on Tuesday, In the Midst of US Tour
You may remember the last time I talked about up & coming British singer/songwriter Bobby Long. Well, seeing that it's the weekend before the release of his debut album, I thought WHY NOT do another little mention. On Tuesday, February 1st ATO Records will release A Winter Tale, the much anticipated debut album from Bobby Long. The 11-track record was recorded in London and produced by Grammy-award winner Liam Watson (The White Stripes) as well as backing vocals from Nona Hendryx (LaBelle) and Icelandic singer Lay Low not to mention pedal steel by B.J. Cole (Elton John, Sting). Long, who The New York Post recently touted as one of their "10 Artists To Watch in 2011," is currently out on tour promoting his debut album. The extensive tour sees Long traipsing about all over North America, playing a variety of venues and festivals including dates at the Sundance Film Festival and SXSW. Here's hoping we see and hear a lot more from this talented (and handsome) guy from England.
Don't forget to pick up your copy of A Winter Tale when it's released on February 1st and check Long out on tour in a city near you (TOUR DATES below). To tide you over why not have a look at an exclusive performance video of Long doing a new song, "Dead & Gone" as part of the recently launched Burberry Acoustic series. So good!
TOUR DATES
January 24/Park City, UT/House of Blues Park City
January 25/Park City, UT/Sundance ASCAP Music Café
January 28/Vancouver, BC/Media Club
January 29/Seattle, WA/Tractor Tavern
January 31/Portland, OR/Doug Fir
February 2/San Francisco, CA/Café du Nord
February 3/Los Angeles, CA/The Troubadour
February 4/San Diego, CA/Anthology
February 5/Tucson, AZ/Club Congress
February 8/Salt Lake City, UT/Kilby Court
February 10/Denver, CO/Bluebird
February 11/Lawrence, KS/Bottleneck
February 12/St. Louis, MO/Old Rock House
February 14/Madison, WI/High Noon Saloon
February 15/Minneapolis, MN/Varsity Theater
February 16/Milwaukee, WI/Turner Ballroom
February 17/Indianapolis, IN/Radio Radio
February 18/Chicago, IL/Schuba’s
February 19/Columbus, OH/Basement
February 21/Ann Arbor, MI/The Ark
February 22/Toronto, ON/Revival
February 23/Montreal, QC/Divan
February 24/Burlington, VT/Higher Ground
February 25/Portland, ME/Port City Music Hall
February 26/Boston, MA/Brighton Music Hall
February 28/Northampton, MA/Iron Horse
March 1/Baltimore, MD/Otto Bar
March 3/New York, NY/Bowery Ballroom
March 4/Philadelphia, PA/World Café
March 5/Vienna, VA/Jammin Java
March 22/Charlottesville, VA/The Southern
March 23/Pittsburgh, PA/Rex Theatre
March 24/Cincinnati, OH/20th Century Theatre
March 25/Knoxville, TN/Barley’s Tap Room
March 26/Louisville, KY/Headliners Music Hall
March 27/Nashville, TN/3rd & Lindsley
March 29/Raleigh, NC/Lincoln Theatre
March 31/Greenville, SC/The Handlebar
April 1/Atlanta, GA/Vinyl
April 2/Orlando, FL/The Social
April 3/Jacksonville, FL/Jack Rabbits
April 5/Birmingham, AL/Workplay
April 6/Memphis, TN/Hi-Tone
April 8/Dallas, TX/Poor David’s Pub
April 9/Austin, TX/Stubbs Jr.
April 10/Houston, TX/Fitzgerald’s
Check out Bobby Long on the web:
Hot Video Alert: Amy MacDonald - Your Time Will Come
Released in early December, "Your Time Will Come" is the 5th single to be lifted off Scottish singer/songwriter Amy MacDonald's sophomore album, A Curious Thing (Mercury Records). While the album itself had an impressive enough debut on the UK Album Chart, coming in at #4, her singles have not fared as well. Lead single, "Don't Tell Me That It's Over" peaked at #48, while her fourth single, "Love, Love" only managed to land at #183. What about "Your Time Will Come?" Not good, it has yet to chart. This song, like the rest of the tracks included on A Curious Thing, was penned MacDonald herself. The video feature some behind the scenes footage of MacDonald during a live performance, interspersed with rehearsal footage, various other bits of promo and some newly shot footage of MacDonald singing the song. "Your Time Will Come" is a beautiful, heart felt piece of mid tempo pop rock and MacDonald sounds just as lovely as ever. Here's hoping that her disappointing single sales don't mean that her time has come. The 23 year old Scot has a lot left to bring.
Check out Amy MacDonald on the web:
Selena Gomez & The Scene en Español
Selena Gomez is hard at work on her upcoming Spanish ep! No date or title are set yet, but confirmed tracks include Natural (Naturally), Vueltas y Vueltas (Round & Round), Dime Algo Que No Se (Tell Me Something I Don't Know), and Quiero Mas (More). Thanks to T33n Source for all the info!Friday, January 28, 2011
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Shut Up & Love Me (Snippet)
Here is a 16 second clip of a track that didn't make Demi Lovato's 2009 album, Here We Go Again. Hopefully we get the full soon!D O W N L O A D
thanks, jbdlochile!
Monday, January 24, 2011
Suspended (Clip/MQ)
In a recent youtube video, 78violet premiered a clip of a new song! Can't wait to hear the full thing!D O W N L O A D
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Hot Video Alert: Emily Osment - Lovesick
This isn't the first I'd heard of Emily Osment, but thinking back, I must have discounted her as a country singer based on her name alone. STUPID ME! By the time I went to watch the video for "Lovesick" back when Prophet posted it on January 2nd, it had been removed by Osment's label, Wind-Up Records so THIS is the first time I'm watching it and I have to admit...I'm pleasantly surprised. Who knew that Emily Osment was trying her hand at becoming the next Ke$ha? I am also noticing, while watching the flashy video, just how much Osment looks like Carrie Underwood. Uncanny!
Emily Osment started out as an actress, appearing in such kids fare as Spy Kids 2 and Spy Kids 3D as well as co-starring alongside Miley Cyrus on Disney's Hannah Montana. "Lovesick" was the second official single to be lifted off Osment's debut album, Fight Or Flight. Released back in October, "Lovesick" failed to chart in the U.S. Disappointing. Then again, first single, "Let's Be Friends" didn't land anywhere on the Billboard Hot 100 either, despite some success in Japan and Germany. As if the singles' lack of chart success, the album only managed to peaked at #170 on the Billboard 200. Again - disappointing. Now - let's talk about the singles again. While there was an element of electro in "Let's Be Friends" it definitely had a bit more of a rock edge. "Lovesick" is pure dance pop hinging on techno. Considering how poorly this dance/pop project did I'm wondering if Emily Osment is going to reinvent her sound on her next album? I guess it couldn't hurt.
Osment co-wrote the entire album, while Nellee Hooper produced the majority of it, with additional production provided by Toby Gad. With no new singles from Emily Osment since "Lovesick's" October release I am starting to wonder if the Fight Or Flight era is officially dead? Pity.
Check out Emily Osment on the web:
Hot Video Alert: Tinie Tempah feat. Ellie Goulding - Wonderman
Inspired by 70s American TV series The Six Million Dollar Man, the video for Tinie Tempah's new single "Wonderman," features Tinie in the title role. After being injured in space, Tempah is outfitted with bionic parts including an arm, leg, eye, ear not to mention super human spped and strength. Together, these new parts turn Tinie Tempah into an unstoppable force of good. A hero if you will. British singer/songwriter Ellie Goulding portrays a scientist assigned to oversee Tinie's transformation and progress throughout. While Goulding claims to have done her own stunts for the video, those scenes appear to have been cut from the final video as Goulding is only seen watching Tinie through a glass window or standing over him taking notes. No matter, the video is chock-full of death defying stunts, awesome special effects and two of my favorite British artists. All in all, a very solid video.
"Wonderman" will be released in the UK on March 6th via Parlophone Records. The Labrinth-produced single entered the UK Singles Chart at #45 - the week after Tinie's debut album, Disc-Overy came out. Here's hoping that, come March, the single has a nice, impressive debut on the charts. It definitely deserves it! If you're in the UK you can check out the video below (U.S. fans try HERE). Make sure you also check out Tinie and Ellie performing the song live last Thursday at the Brit Awards 2011 Launch Party. Wow Ellie! Quite the impressive drum solo. Maybe they'll both do the song live again at Coachella?
Check out Tinie Tempah on the web:
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