Brandy's Album Review: HUMAN

Im Perfectly HUMAN

Im An ANGEL In DISGUISE...

[$ELLS To The Heavens Above!]

As its been four years since I was last infected by the heart-wrenching odes of Love Lost and Emotional Healing that comprised Brandy's 2004 Fan-Favorite, AFRODISIAC, One of My All-Time FAVORITE R&B songstress' is BACK on the Music Scene.

HONESTLY, I have not been giving Brandy's fifth studio LP, HUMAN, the personal time and attention that it deserves. The fact that the lead single, RIGHT HERE [Departed], didnt pleasure my principle listening ear, I began to doubt the solidarity of the album's direction. As some of my Friends and fellow Music Lovers have employed me to truly dig into the essence of Brandy's latest compilation, I have spent the past three hours listening to every track, repeatedly.

Now signed to Epic Records and standing on the dawn of a new day void of legal issues and her brother's Sex Video Antics, Brandy has delivered an album that illuminates the signature, Airy-Soul sound that has framed her fourteen year career in the music industry.

Produced primarily by mega-producer and industry friend, Rodney 'DarkChild' Jerkins, collectively, Human is an album filled with PowerBallad's that echo the emotional sensibilities of Brandy's trials, tribulations and triumphs of womanhood. She polishes each track with a rich, honey-coated prowess that is indicative of the albums that have made her a household name. The majority of Brandy's songs on this compilation are complete with a dynamic blend of addilibs and piano chords which illustrate a trance of authenticity. While many may argue that the mid-tempo tracks lack a sense of contemporary rarity, I am impressed with Brandy's ability to showcase her vocal afflictions. While Afrodisiac was drenched in PowerBeats that often times drowned Brandy's voice, Human is saturated in a richer illustration of Brandy's ability to use her voice as an instrument.

Clearly, A CAPELLA stands supreme as one of this years most innovative and electrifying songs to polish an R&B or POP album. Brandy negates the cliche' of studio infused rhythms, and uses her voice as the template for the song's creation. Its a masterpiece of artistic creation. On the album's title track, HUMAN, produced by none other than Toby Gad, Brandy's lyrics pay homage to the raw vulnerability and strength that creates our physical and emotional existence. Toby Gad is the producer who is responsible for a LOT of the European Hits made famous by one of my FAVORITE artists of ALL-TIME; Esthero.

As Brandy also worked alongside producers, Kara DioGuardi, Chad Roper, Midi Mafia and Dapo Torimiro, its her BONUS TRACKS, 2nd THOUGH and DRUM LIFE, which truly sell Brandy as a veteran Ingenue of the Music Industry. She presents her airy, infectious voice amongst the background of an array of Infectious Hand Claps and Electric, Snazzy Keyboards on quite a few of her stand-out singles. WARM IT UP WITH LOVE, 1ST & LOVE, TORN DOWN and THE DEFINITION, rise as records that will further define Brandy's, HUMAN compilation as a catalogue of innovative, keynote indications; baring her longevity. What Brandy is able to do vocally and melodically, with the endings of such tracks that include, FALL ft. Natasha Bedingfield, as well as PIANO MAN and SHATTERED HEART, is a pulse of flow and silent promise, amongst other female vocalists who rely heavily on Big Notes and Distinct Runs.

Though HUMAN is Not, by far, my favorite Brandy album, it does posess the quintessential elements of Brandy's Style, Poise and Musical Decorum.

Im NOT expecting the album to sell millions of units. Im also not expecting the album to deliver any Top 10 Hits during its run. However, I do expect that the album will allow her Fans and the Listening Public to Respect and Honor her ability to paint a lyrical portrait of Truth and humbled Vulnerability. I am IN-LOVE with A CAPELLA, and hail it as the Essence of Brandy's Musical Growth.

I Rate HUMAN, 3 Stars out of 5.

I Think Im being Honest and Fair.

[BeYonce's Album Review] That's Why She's Beautiful

Commentary & Critique

by

Xem VanAdams

As I vowed to myself that I would NOT participate in the I AM...BEYONCE/I AM...SASHA FIERCE

'Media Blitz', I am compelled to review this third, solo, studio LP from our reigning Songstress of R&B.

Over the past month, we have been saturated in the essence of Beyonce's lead singles, SINGLE LADIES, as well as, IF I WERE A BOY. Both tracks have Re-Introduced Beyonce to the POP Music Scene, as a woman who takes full advantage of her Sensuality, Dance Training and Cross Culture-Market Appeal. She has PROVEN that it doesnt take as much TALENT as it does Intelligent MARKETING SCHEMES, to garner an overload of public and industry attention. Beyonce Knowles has once again, FOOLED a Fan-Following into proclaiming her as the Quintessential 'ICON' of our generation; NEVERMIND the FACT that FIFTY PERCENT of her songs are painted with lyrics that are more suitable for the albums she released when she was living her tender, poignant, teenage years. HOWEVER, through a juxtaposition of Dual MEDIA Personalities and a plethora of Cross-Genre sounds, Beyonce HAS, INDEED, comprised a Two-Disc LP that is WORTHY of Critical and Commercial Recognition.

Initially, I wrote this album off as yet another, Hap-Hazzard attempt at a Self-Proclaimed, Industry 'LEGEND' taking for granted her Fan-Base and True Artistry. While I STILL dont Hail Beyonce as the SUPREME TALENT that so many other Reporters, Critics and Associated Press Commentators claim her to be, I DO, as always, commend her for her ability to APPEAL to broad audiences.

I commend her for following in the footsteps of Diana Ross, Madonna, Janet Jackson, Cher and other GAY and Mainstream ICONS, by challenging the mainstay of her Sound. I APPLAUD Beyonce for exploring the ramifications and boundary modes of the industry, and allowing this third, solo LP to push the lines of categorization. What she has achieved on this album is the ability to envelop the listening pleasures of those who appreciate Folk, Soft Rock, Acoustic, Hip-Hop, Country, Pop and R&B Music, alike.

While MANY Blacks have had a DIFFICULT time absorbing her Dare-To-Be-Different approach to reaching TRUE LEGEND STATUS on this album, I have found a liking to the Less-Than-Publicly-Adored tracks.

As Im typing this review, I am listening to what has become my FAVORITE SONG on the I AM....project. THAT'S WHY YOU'RE BEAUTIFUL is an illustration of Poetic and Melancholic Genius. From its Folk/Acoustic blend of soft guitar riffs and melodic chords of circumstance, to its bland, forged and layered lyrics, the song is by far, the BEST SONG on the album.

Creatively, Stylistically, Lyrically and Rhythmically, THAT'S WHY YOU'RE BEAUTIFUL Soars FAR and BEYOND the cliche' antics that comprise, RADIO, DIVA, VIDEO PHONE and SINGLE LADIES. Though those four tracks were written, recorded and placed on the album to entertain and satisfy the Immature ears of those who claim to be 'Music Lovers', Beyonce embodies WomanHood, Growth and Maturation on the Beautiful compositions of DISAPPEAR, HALO, AVE MARIA and SATTELITES.

The blend of Femininity, Strength and Empowerment that evokes from the lyrics that create the tracks that the 'URBAN MARKET' is IGNORING, are the TIMELESS SINGLES that will live on to DEFINE the Promise of Beyonces mainstay in mainstream, American Music.

As I have Criticized BeYonce on MANY occassions for the lack of depth and conviction that framed past singles, SUGA MAMA, FREAKEM DRESS, GREENLIGHT and GET ME BODIED, I cant help but to praise her array of Vocal and Melodic prowess on her redemption tracks, BROKEN HEARTED GIRL, SMASH INTO YOU, HELLO and SCARED OF LONELY. As an artist and an Honest Judge of all that creates the Artistic Grace of our Media Conglomeration, I am placing my STAMP OF APPROVAL on Beyonce's Stand-In Sanctions.

She has given 'The Girlz' and 'The Kidz' their 'Satisfy The Fans' Potion with the MAJORITY of the 'I AM SASHA FIERCE' side of her Dual Disc. Its the rare essence of the 'I AM BEYONCE' collection that will continue to frame her career in the Lights of those women who are awarded LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT accolades for their contributions to American, Pop Culture.

On a Scale of 1 to 5 Stars, Our African American Ingenue of Cross-Over Sound and Electric, Stage Performance earns 3 and 1/2 Stars from XEM VanAdams.

I can not give her PRAISE and ACCOLADES for her constant deliverence of Cliche', Conventional,

'Walkin In Da Club with My 6 Inch Stilleto Heels- Lookin Fine- Music Pumpin In Da Background' lyrics. I can, However, pay Homage to the lyrical content and rhythmic satisfaction that cements Beyonce in a Frame of Popular, Adored, Musicianship. I will NEVER DENY the Diamond Shine of Beyonce's Performance, WOW Factor. Im simply DIGGING Beneath the Surface of her Physical, Gay-Glamorized Appearance, and peering into the Soul of a STAR who Truly comes ALIVE on the pieces of the album that too MANY are IGNORING.

In order for this album to $ell BEYOND the 700,000-750,000 units that its SURE to push this week, alone, Beyonce MUST Release, HALO, RADIO, DIVA and DISAPPEAR; whether I like the lesser, or Not.

In a Perfect World, THATS WHY YOU'RE BEAUTIFUL would be a Smash-Hit Success. I have already created the Video Treatment in My Creative Mind.

It would Behoove you ALL to also take a LISTEN to one of BeYonce's most Prized, BONUS Tracks as well,

WHY DONT YOU LOVE ME.

CHRISTINA Please Come Back To Me

The Vocal PowerHouse of Our Generation:

CHRISTINA AGUILERA

...The thing is, as MANY of you know, CHRISTINA AGUILERA, is, by far, my FAVORITE Female Singer, Performer, Entertainer. So MANY of you 'LIVE' for the Antics of BeYonce Knowles, but Vocally, she doesnt light the Flames that Christina BLOWS everytime she opens her mouth. Christina has been marveled as the quintessential, prowess of Sound for the past TEN YEARS.

To pay Homage to her TEN YEAR career in the music industry, Christina is releasing her November 11, 2008 compilation, KEEPS GETTING BETTER: A DECADE OF HITS

Ive listened to both lead singles from the compilation, DYNAMITE and the title track, KEEPS GETTING BETTER, and I am extremely DISAPPOINTED with both; to say the least. Christina is, indeed, very INNOVATIVE, UNIQUE, CREATIVE and DYNAMIC in her approach to breaking the mold of secular sound and mainstream, appeal tactics. Im just turned off, a bit, by her ability to design herself and her music in such Left Field Territory. What Christina seems to forget, often times, is the FACT that her music still NEEDS to receive, mainstream, radio airplay, as much as it needs to appeal to her grounded, fan-base. I DONT expect her to cater to the likeness of GENIE IN A BOTTLE and WHAT A GIRL WANTS. However, I would LOVE for her to return to the plethora of Stylings and Intimate Ballads that framed the Critical and Commercial Success of her 2002 Smash Hit, STRIPPED.

Right now, Christina is in the production phase of writing and recording her Fourth, Studio LP; which, according to her, is going in the OPPOSITE direction of 2006's, BACK TO BASICS. It took me so LONG to envelop Christina's last album, and even once I did, I could only really FEEL the 2nd Disc; riding alone at night. I dont know. Christina has employed herself to create an entire, Futuristic, ELECTRONIC-Oriented album. If DYNAMITE and KEEPS GETTING BETTER are indicative of that challenge, Im really AFRAID for us, the fans, as well as her career. Her 3rd, Studio, LP, BACK TO BASICS sold fairly well, BUT with her status in the music industry, Christina SHOULD be pushing the SAME number of units as Britney, Alicia and Beyonce, alike. Afterall, these are the LEGENDS and Soon-To-Be, ICONS of our time.

Working alongside one of my Favorite, 2007/2008 discovered artists, SIA (Breathe Me), Christina will be in the studio creating a LOT of material for her Summer 2009 album. She has also garnered the production talents of the Legendary, Linda Perry, GoldFrapp and LadyTron to help her create this 'FUTURISTIC' Masterpiece.

I simply want Christina to RETURN to the Formulas that made her a Major Star in the Beginning. Whereas MADONNA has reinvented herself a Million Times Over, PEOPLE and MUSIC arent as Flexible and Forgiving as they once were. I Love and Appreciate ALL blends and musical genres.

I just wish Christina would allow Me to FALL-IN-LOVE with her, All Over Again.

...MEANWHILE...

I am Ever-So-Xcited for this Third, Studio LP that is being released by Keyshia Cole, in part of Geffen/InterScope Records, on Tuesday, December 16th. A DIFFERENT ME, the follow up to Keyshia's Platinum-Plus, 2005 and 2007 albums, is filled with a Similar Sound, yet Different Themes than we are use to from the R&B songstress.

Ive been drawn to Keyshia for about 2 years now. I am in Love with the raw essence of her voice, as well as the stripped persona of her individuality. I have watched her evolve into such a beautiful young woman. She presents an aura of class, at this point in her career. She NOW... ALWAYS looks good on Red Carpets, at Media Events, and even walking down Robertson Blvd. here in Los Angeles.

At this point, Im UnSure as to WHY 'Playa Cardz Right' was selected as the LEAD single for the Up and Coming, Highly Anticipated album. However, with a growing Fan-Base that follows her career by buying the albums and watching the Top-Rated, BET showcase, Keyshia will do WELL this Holiday Season. The album is sure to present yet another commercial success for Keyshia's catalogue.

The THIRD Season of KeyShia Cole's BET Reality Series PREMIERES This Tuesday Night.

Check Your Local Listings for Show Time.

An entire Track Listing has NOT been issued. However, I have received these FIVE record titles that are to appear on December 16th's, A DIFFERENT ME.

PLAYA CARDZ RIGHT

TRUST ft. Monica

MAKE ME OVER

YOU COMPLETE ME

HONEY LOVE R.Kelly Remake

*A CHRISTINA AGUILERA/KEYSHIA COLE Duet would actually be a GREAT Idea*

EVOLVER: Another John Legend MasterPiece

Hailed by many as the Black John Lennon or the second coming of the highly praised John Mathis, John Legend has framed the sound of his third, studio LP, EVOLVER, with a collection of 808 and Heartbreak tracks that are indicative of a young, vintage, Philadelphia Soul, whose on a Cosmic, Rhythmic journey. Since his 2004 spill into the sea of synthetic, R&B music, John Legend has forged his own Oasis of Style and Eclecticity. With a voice beyond reproach, John illustrates a bluesy mood of consciousness that is stroked with vivid layers of raspy, melancholic passions. EVOLVER presents a continued journey, on which John evokes a debonair, musical genius that easily transcends him as a rolling force in secular, mainstream, American music. The signature, swoop and sweep sound of John's seventeen tracks, are still lamented with the tear streaked essence of his introspective lyrics, and empathetic falsetto's that are often poised as being erotic. Listening to John saturate tracks, Everybody Knows and If You're Out There with his infectious spirit, is almost a new listening experience, in itself. The influence of industry legends, Marvin Gaye, Louis Armstrong and Nat King Cole, are easily heard in, Set Me Free; one of the Bonus Tracks from EVOLVER that is sure to become a Fan Favorite.

The fun and fast lead single from Evolver, GreenLight, ft. Andre 3000, should have been enveloped by urban radio on a higher plateau than it has been. The song has not cracked the Top 10 of Billboards, Top 200 since its August, 2008 release. Clearly, reigning as one of the most illustrious collaborations of John Legends career, thus far, GreenLight is indicative of a musician who doesnt shy away from reaching outside of his industry imposed boundaries. Stand out tracks that include Everybody Knows, I Love You Love, and the Brandy collabo, Quickly, each celebrate the big chorus' and vocal prowess that has solidified John Legend as a musical and lyrical force amongst the spectrum of sound, performance, style and decorum in our generations complacency with 'anything the DJ plays on the radio'. Framed by a collection of career defining records that include, GoodMorning , No Other Love, and Floating Away, John Legend is on the pulse of another year filled with a plethora of Critical and Commercial acclaim.

Go out TODAY and purchase John Legends, third, studio LP; EVOLVER.

Its Well WORTH The Listen...

EVOLVER

Good Morning INTRO
Green Light ft. Andre 3000
Its Over ft. Kanye West
Everybody Knows
Quickly ft. Brandy
Cross The Line
No Other Love ft. Estelle
This Time ft. Tiziano Ferro
Satisfaction
Take Me Away
Good Morning
I Love, You Love
If You'e Out There
Can't Be My Lover

It's Over [Remix/Teddy Riley]
Floating Away [BONUS]
Set Me Free [BONUS]

Who is KENNA?

Make Sure They See My Face

IN STORES NOW!

Born in Ethiopia, and Reigning from his upbringings in Virgina Beach, VA, KENNA has already garnered an Underground following, being compared to the likes of Pharrell, Lupe Fiasco and Kanye West.

His innovative Style and Juxtaposition of various music genres, blends a Signature Sound that is everything Synth PoP, Electronica Hip Hop, Post Rock and Contemporary House.

As a Singer, Songwriter and industry Producer, Kenna has already worked with the likes of Chad Hugo of the N.E.R.D Trio, Ashlee Simpson, Nelly Fertado and a slew of other A-List Musicians. He has taken center stage alongside Headliners, Lupe Fiasco and Kanye West; even recording one of my FAVORITE Tracks with PoP/R&B Crooner, Justin Timberlake.

I discovered KENNA when I first arrived here to Los Angeles, California, back in early June. I first heard his ROCK.A.WAY LIFE single, teamed with Justin Timberlake. Soon after, my taste for his Sound and his Eclectic Vibe forged me in the direction of uncovering his Other Material. I immediately fell In-Love with his Debut single, HELL BENT, which was delivered as the fuel to caterpault his career into the direction in which its currently soaring....

HOWEVER, it wouldnt be until the October 16, 2007 release of KENNA's Sophomore, Studio LP, Make Sure They See My Face, that KENNA would Shoot into the mainstream, and Debut in the Number One, BillBoard Spot for the Top 20 HeatSeekers. KENNA's Success as a Solo Artist is on the rise; for he has the Creativity and One-of-a-Kind SPARK, that easily aligns him with the artists whom he's often campared to.

PLEASE...by ALL MEANS, Get into one of KENNA's Fan-Favorite Singles & Videos BELOW.

This track, SAY GOODBYE TO LOVE, was recorded with the help of Lupe Fiasco, himself.

ENJOY...

Kenna - Say Goodbye To Love
Uploaded by Kenna

Visit KENNAS Official Fan/Artist Site HERE

'Creation is Representation' [Xem; August 2008]

'Knowledge and Artistry ABOVE My own VANITY' [Xem; July 2008]

'Im Drenched in Love and Showered by Support'[Xem; April 2008]

'Life Without Photographs are Moments that Never Happened'[Aug.2007]

The GRAND HUSTLE of NEW MUSIC [Every1's Playin The Game]

November 11, 2008

Whats so THRILLING and XCITING about this 4th Quarter of Studio, LP Releases, is the FACT that ALL of the Artists seem to be pulling out XTRA Stops, in order to further Push, Promote and Sell their albums to the Mainstream. From Brandy's most recent Tell-All interview with infamous, New York, Radio Personality, Angie Martinez, to Beyonce's World-Wide announcement on Friday regarding the RUMORS circulating the 'Push-Back' date of her Highly Anticipated, 3rd, Solo compilation, EVERYONE seems to be on their Hustle.....

As I have spent the past week Writing, Shooting Footage, Releasing Projects and continuing to PROMOTE Myself, as well as The YouTube and FaceBook pages, I have used TI's Sixth, Studio LP as a Mini-Soundtrack to my everyday regimine.

Slated to premiere in the Number ONE Spot of next week's Billboard Tally; following the Top-Spot sales positions of his 2006 and 2007 albums, KING and TI vs. TIP, Paper Trail had already sold a WOPPING 357,000 copies by Thursday, October 2nd. As the Top nine merchants who report their sales to Nielsen Soundscan have concluded, including Trans World Entertainment, Best Buy, Circuit City, ITunes, Starbucks, Borders, Target and Anderson Merchandisers; TI's latest compilation will probably tip the 550,000-575,000 Sales Mark before Soundscan closes at Midnight, Tonight.

Whats so Intriguing about TI's album, is the RAW essence of his Voice, the STRIPPED down humble factor of the lyrical content, as well as the Collaboration factor that adds a Thick Coating of Bitter-Sweet icing on the baked ingredients of each track. With the almost Simultaneous distribution of Four singles, including the Kanye produced, SWAGGER LIKE US, and the number ONE Billboard Favorite, WHATEVER YOU LIKE, TI has been on the hustle to contain control over his Title as the Southern KING of Hip-Hop. As he references himself on this album as the 'Best Thing Since Tupac', its hard to Argue the Self-Proclamation.

What TI has done with the frame of having to record the project during his house arrest stint on weapons charges, is that he transformed his Woes and personal Wounds, into a poignant archetype of Survival. He took full advantage of a situation where the Entire World was looking him Up and Down. He embodied the literature and spoken word of 'The Light that Shines at the End of the Dark Tunnel'...and has resurrected Supreme.

My FAVORITE TRACKS

I am MOST feeling the Star-Studded Collabos that Sprinkle as Highlight Material on this particular Album...

DEAD and GONE ft. Justin Timberlake

SLIDE SHOW ft. John Legend

ON TOP OF THE WORLD ft. Ludacris

LIVE YOUR LIFE ft. Rihanna

PORN STAR [Definitely an Evening with My Chardonnay]

TI and Rihanna are slated to shoot the Video for LIVE YOUR LIFE, in the coming week, or so. I HOPE to GOD that her stylist puts her in something OTHER THAN Black! Im so NOT a Rihanna Fan. However, I do think that her Style is very Fashion-Forward and Daring. Its Innovative, and that Thrills Me, FAR MORE than her Pedestrain Lyrics, and Train Wrecked Voice.

Whats ALL of The 'Hype'?

One of my Supporters from Philadelphia was KIND enough to send me a copy of Jennifer's SeLf-TiTlEd, DEBUT LP. I didnt want to purchase the album, for I wasnt as XCITED about the first two singles, SPOTLIGHT and POCKETBOOK, as Everyone else, 'Seems to Be'. I am just BEGINNING to embrace Jennifer as an artist, to be Honest. For those of you who have been with me for the past Year, KNOWS that I am NOT a Huge FAN of Jennifers acting ability. I had MAJOR issues with her garnering the Oscar for her role as Effie White. I DIGRESS...

Jennifers Voice, on this debut project is DEFINITELY a melodic coating of rapture, strength and power beyond belief. HOWEVER, I cant help but to feel as if Jennifer doesnt have a Solidified Spot amongst the mainstream of secular music, here in 2008. I KNEW, before even listening to the album, that it would NOT be filled with Radio-Friendly Favorites. I find her stance on the Timbaland produced, POCKETBOOK, to be utterly Ridiculous. Jennifer is Too Mature and Beyond Category to have been placed with such a Track. I KNOW that her record company, along with other collaborators, needed to have her perform a track that would possibly deliver that 'FreakemDress', 'Suga Mama' appeal. HOWEVER, Jennifer is simply NOT that type of artist. It seems as if the industry just DOESNT Know what to do with her. YES...Jennifer can Sing. I just dont think that she has that APPEAL Factor that's going to allow her to push the number of units, long-Term, that JIVE Records and her 'Adoring Fans' are hoping for.

My FAVORITE TRACKS

I'M HIS ONLY WOMAN ft. Fantasia

GIVING MYSELF OVER written & produced by ROBIN THICKE

Its only been within the past 6 months, that I have even paid this Brotha Attention. Im being Honest. Wayne grabbed my attention on the Club Circuit with his LOLLIPOP and AMILLI singles; both of which aided in his ability to push 2.5 million units of his latest, LP; during a time period where USHER nor MARIAH have been able to reprise their 2005 Album Success.

Riding on the FanFare Success and Critical Acclaim of his most recent compilation, Lil Wayne is already BACK in the Studio, recording his follow-up LP, Tha Carter IV. In accordance, to promote the release, he is also composing DEDICATION 3, a mixtape of TWENTY ADDITIONAL tracks, which will be made available, for FREE, on his website. This brotha is also in the studios, as we speak, aligning tracks for his 2009, collaborative release of T-WAYNE; an album that will Spotlight the Tag-Team efforts of He and Music Partner, T-Pain.

IF He can complete the projects before years end, I can definitely see him having ULTIMATE success during the First and Second Quarters of 2009.

...and She's BACK Bitchez!

On Friday, BEYONCE released a statement to ALL of the Major Media Conglomerates, as well as to her Major, Cross-Cultured, Fan Base, to let EVERYONE know that her eagerly anticipated, untitled, Third, Solo LP, is STILL being released on November 18, 2008.

Whats so EXCITING about Beyonce's hustle at the moment, is the FACT that she is releasing TWO singles, SIMULTANEOUSLY, Next Tuesday, October 14, 2008. SINGLE LADIES and IF I WERE A BOY will premiere on radio stations across the country, in accordance with the MTV, BET and VH1 DUAL-Release of her Jake Nava, Directed Music Videos.

Some are saying that this album is going to CATERPAULT Beyonce's career into a Stratosphere of Boundless Proportions. Having recorded a wopping SEVENTY tracks over the past year, Beyonce has a great deal of material to piece together on this new album. My HOPE for Beyonce, as I have stated MANY times before, is that she focuses on the QUALITY of her singles, as oppose to the QUANTITY. If she remains Loyal to the Fans and True to her Artistry, then she WONT have to rerelease her album, with QUALITY singles, as she HAD to do to save the grace of 2006's, B-DAY. Beyonce is already aligning a Spring/Summer 2009 Tour, as to further promote the New Album.

Beyonce is presenting an AOL FIRST LISTEN concert/session in anticipation of this November 18th release, as she is having a Deluxe Edition of the album, released on the Same Day as the other units are distributed, nationwide. The Deluxe Edition will be comprised of an Unspecified number of singles that would usually be distributed, across seas, as Import and/or Promo Tracks. So, just like CREOLE, LOST YO MIND and other B-DAY leftovers seemed to find their way to Radio, YouTube, ITunes, etc., Beyonce is actually going to maintain Control of the additional songs, by having them packaged and sold, accordingly.

I am NOT a Huge Fan of Many Artists, at all. HOWEVER, when I see them putting forth XTRA ENERGY and XTRA EFFORTS in pursuit of Artistic GENIUS, I Cant help but to become Xcited for them as Musicians, Performers and Individual Talents. I look forward to Tracking the 4th Quarter sales of BEYONCE, BRITNEY, PINK, TI and BRANDY...

The HUSTLE is ON.

'Creation is Representation' [Xem; August 2008]

'Knowledge and Artistry ABOVE My own VANITY' [Xem; July 2008]

'Im Drenched in Love and Showered by Support'[Xem; April 2008]

'Life Without Photographs are Moments that Never Happened'[Xem; August, 2007]

Its BRITNEY...Bitch!

On The ComeBack Trail....

The LEGENDARY

'PoP Princess ICON'

Britney Spears

As a LOT of the Media Conglomerates have been QUICK to dismiss Miss. Britney Spears as a Washed Away, Fallen Star; Publicly dismissed from SuperStardom existence, BRITNEY is preparing herself to retake to the Throne that once upon a time held her upon a Plateau of industry Success and Musical InGenius.
Britney has indeed, fallen victim to a great deal of PAIN and SUFFERING, in the eye of the Media and Public alike, as she has been swayed through a worldwind of emotional despair, hardships involving family and close friends, a marriage that crumbled at the hands of random decisions of 'Too Much-Too Soon', as well as a Career that faced a HALTING STOP upon antics that included Late Night Umbrella attacks against Paparazzi, and early morning Hospital scares by way of Ambulance and Helicopter chases. Britney has been challenged by MANY demons over the past 2 years, most of which would have DESTROYED or even KILLED many human beings who were faced with the same means of Scrutiny and Disaster.
As the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards approach, and Rumors are still circulating that the POP Starlett shall Open the Showcase, as to 'Make Up' for the Media panned Comeback Performance of 'Gimme More' that was delivered last year, BRITNEY is looking BETTER than she has since giving birth to her two boys. Now that Britney has officially reunited with LARRY RUDOLPH, her manager whose hands pushed her into the Glare of the Public Spotlight, 10 years ago, Britney looks to be in more control of her daily life. The Pop Sin.Sation has been spending hours upon hours, held up in London and California studios, laying tracks for a 6th Studio LP; which is set to hit stores, WorldWide before Christmas. Britney is once again dieting and working out on a regular basis in order to get her body back to the shape that adorned Magazine Covers and Newsstands for the greater part of her Adult Life and Musical Career. Though Britney has forfeit custody of her sons, Sean Preston and Jayden James to their father, Kevin Federline, Britney seems to be spending quality time with the boys, Behind Closed Doors, as she has regained a positive bond with her Mother and Father, alike.
America is quick to write off Celebrities as 'HAS BEENS' and 'WASHED AWAYS'. I think there exists this OBSESSION with watching Individuals Fall from Grace; all to provide a selfish means of entertainment and negative angst to the Viewers of Mainstream Television News, and Market Stand Gossip Mags. Britney, in her own right, has conquered the Music scene, garnering the attention of Men and Women, Young and Old, from around the world, and across the spectrum of Musical tastes. Britney is ONE of our American Dreams, for she represents a Young Woman whose Life has been spun across a Macrocosm of Fame, luster, Criticism, Faith, Destruction and the ultimate, RESURRECTION. She is on a path of preparation; to display before us, a Woman Whose 'TRAGEDY' will soon be celebrated as an all time 'TRIUMPH'

'Creation is Representation' [Xem; August 2008]

'Knowledge and Artistry ABOVE My own VANITY' [Xem; July 2008]

'Im Drenched in Love and Showered by Support'[Xem; April 2008]

'Life Without Photographs are Moments that Never Happened'[Xem; August, 2007]

Will She GO...or...Will She STAY?

The RETURN

of an

R&B InGenue

BRANDY

Years ago, circa 2004, Brandy included a final track on her AFRODISIAC album that coined the question, 'Shall I Go, or Shall I Stay?'

On the album track, Brandy melodically expresses her disdain for the intricate ways in which the music industry had changed between the days of her mainstream success with such Sugar and Lemon Tea singles, 'I WANNA BE DOWN'- 'BEST FRIEND', and the moderate success of an album that juxtaposed her Honey Coated vocals with Powerhouse, R&B beats created by Mega-Producer, Timbaland. Brandy had once upon a time, pre the BEYONCE and ASHANTI era, caterpaulted into SuperStardom, moving Quadruple-Platinum units of her Breakthrough and Sophomore compilations. With the publics thirst for Sexy Clad Divas, sliding across stages with a Mic in one hand, and a palm full of Thigh or Ass in another, was Brandy prepared to compete amongst the Ladies who had taken to Center Stage of the R&B genre, and the Music Industry of Competition of Staying Power Antics?

Its been FOUR YEARS since Brandy released AFRODISIAC, which still reigns, critically, as some of the best and most illustrious material of her 14 year career. The album is compiled of an array of songs that vividly frame the spectrum of emotions, desires and feelings that filled Brandy's existence during the first 'ADULT YEARS' of her livelihood. Brandy's fans and adoring public, alike, were finally given a raw peek into the woman who she had become, and the artist who she was destined to be. Commercially, however, the album did not translate well into high sales or chart topping appeal. As a result, Brandy was dropped from her Home Label, ATLANTIC, and forced to choose a new direction; en route of career Stature.

As numerous Singles, previously Unreleased and Promotional, have leaked from Brandy's catalogue over the past 4 years, she has FINALLY found a new Musical Home with EPIC records, as well as solidifying an OFFICIAL, November 11th release date, for her 5th Studio LP. Appropriately titled, HUMAN, Brandy is delivering a project that is sure to paint yet another landscape of emotions and personal struggle, before the eyes of those of us who still belieeve in her ability to create classic, timeless music. Brandy has sustained a fan base that has followed her growth and maturation between Teenage Stardom and Womanhood. With every Car Crash Charge, Ousting from Judging repsonsibilities on National Talent Showcases, and critical pans from reporters and media conglomerates across the circuit, Brandy has managed to stand on her own two feet.

She is BACK with a Highly Anticipated Project, though, in My Opinion, the lead single, RIGHT HERE[Departed], is not strong enough to guarantee a First Week Sales High that will promise the release of future singles, videos, and possibly, a supporting tour. Clearly, MOST of the singles that leaked from Brandy's catalogue in 2006 and 2007, delivered a stronger blend of Brandy's vocals with the Mainstream production quality from some of the Industry's finest. MAYBE...Hopefully...EPIC will release a second, accompanying single, BEFORE the Official United States distribution of, HUMAN.

'Creation is Representation' [Xem; August 2008]

'Knowledge and Artistry ABOVE My own VANITY' [Xem; July 2008]

'Im Drenched in Love and Showered by Support'[Xem; April 2008]

'Life Without Photographs are Moments that Never Happened'[Xem; August, 2007]

The BEE is BACK and The BUZZ Is...

The Highly Anticipated Junior Album

from

R&B/PoP SIN.Sation...

BEYONCE

Tentively Titled:

VIRTUOSO INTELLECT

November 18, 2008

As the World sits upon the dawn of a MAJOR Political transition in the Physical Appearance of 'CHANGE' in America, BEYONCE manages to share in that Historical Spotlight, releasing her Junior Studio LP on Tuesday, November 18, 2008. Beyonce has become the quintessential Femme Fatale of our generation. She is the R&B Starlett and Rhythmic, Perform Factor Maverick, who shall go down in History, as a Legend of Our Time, and an ICON to those of the generation to follow. In the past 11 years, Beyonce has managed to use every sprinkle of marketing magic to create an Image and Reputation of SuperStar Proportion.

Now, 2 years following the release of her Triple-Platinum, 2 week rushed project, B'DAY...Beyonce returns with a VIRTUOSO INTELLECT compilation. While I truly LOVE and APPRECIATE Beyonces ability to transform any stage into her Oasis of Feminine Seduction, Im just not SOLD on the 'FACT' that she has the ability to create Quality, Timeless music. Unlike her industry equivalents, with the likes of Alicia Keys and Mary J. Blige, also aligned to take the Legends Throne in years to come, BEYONCE does not contrive songs that can be played 15-20 years from now; garnering a nostalgic moment of Solace and Luster in the spirit of her listeners. Beyonce has managed to remain relevant by creating tracks that elicit an array of Dance Crazes, Lyrical Catchy Tid-Bits, and beats that are Hot enough to keep a Club Floor packed until 2am.

Im HOPING that BeYonce has reached a bit deeper into her magical potions of melodic blends, to create Songs for this album that arent as surface grown and seedless as 'FREAK EM DRESS', 'SUGA MAMA' and 'RING THE ALARM'. I want BeYonce to deliver an album, complete with 15-20 Tracks; all of which contain the essense of the Songs that comprised the ReRelease version of 'B Day'. I THINK Beyonce REALIZES that she can no longer count on the fact that she is 'BEYONCE'. The slow to moderate sales of BDAY, prior to its 3rd Single Release...'To the Left..To the Left...' PROVED that her FANS wanted and desired MORE. Beyonce, hopefully, does NOT rely upon the Mainstream, Conventional beats from TIMBALAND, THE NEPTUNES, KANYE WEST, DARK CHILD & THE DREAM to deliver and transcend the essense of her Growth and Maturation of Talent over the past two years. Beyonce, in my Opinion, STILL has a LOT to Prove. WHY do so many individuals WORSHIP her, in Goddess Sanction? Is she Truly WORTHY of ALL of the Accolades and Adoration?

VIRTUOSO INTELLECT shall deliver the Answer to the Promise of her Future in the Game.

HOPEFULLY, She WILL be performing her NEW single during her much promoted, September performance at The FASHION ROCKS Industry Concert.

Beyonces FIRST Single will hit ITunes on September 12th, So...MAYBE we will even get a SURPRISE MTV Video Music Award Performance from Our R&B Starlett, on Sunday, September 7, 2008.

...Until then, We Still Await...

'Creation is Representation' [Xem; August 2008]

'Knowledge and Artistry ABOVE My own VANITY' [Xem; July 2008]

'Im Drenched in Love and Showered by Support'[Xem; April 2008]

'Life Without Photographs are Moments that Never Happened'[Xem; August, 2007]

Seeing Sounds...Hearing Images.

As I am preparing to visit The Infamous Beverly Center, here in Los Angeles, California, one of my first stops is going to be a visit to the Virgin MegaStore. I will be supporting N.E.R.D by purchasing this 3rd, studio LP effort, SEEING SOUNDS; a vivid compilation of a new genre in the mainstream music rhythmicphere. As Ive been listening to various tracks from N.E.R.D's new album, the Junior project of their 7 year career, as an eclectic group of All-Star Musicians, I cant help but to become extremely excited about the experimental mixtures of colorful, R&B melodies, contrasted with tones of Rock, Pop and Alternative beats. What Chad & Hugo are bringing to the spectrum of music, is a twist of chromatic genius, often unfound in other projects of this calibur.

The juxtaposition of Pharrels airy, ocean-waved, falsetto is mixed above the crashing, and sometimes, soothing sounds of songs that speak in echoes of the present clash of political, social and economic warfare in America. On my favorite track of the album, thus far, LOVE BOMBS, Pharrel so poignantly states, 'We've got enough Love Songs, We Need a Love Bomb'. N.E.R.D uses their ingenius, lyrical content, combined with their musical portraitures of perfection, to paint images of sound that are sure to transcend the comfort and discomfort levels of our present generation.

Given four years, since the March 2004 release of their last, Smash-Hit compilation, N.E.R.D creates a platform of artistry, illustrated through an array of tones and sound circumstances, easily shelved for its eclectic existence, and yet, easily enveloped for its innovation and experimental style. SEEING SOUNDS is an album that presents its existence in Red and Blue Strokes, sanctioned in a Mainstream Mess of Todays Top 40 Hits, strictly painted in Black or White.

I am extremely Impressed with what N.E.R.D has created for their Fans and CopyCats to follow. As I purchase this project today, adding its Songs to the Soundtrack of my new journey, here in California, Im going to relish in the Hope that a LOVE BOMB hits my being, protecting Me from any and all ills that have yet to be created to sabotage my ultimate Dreams.

'Life Without Photographs are Moments that Never Happened'~{Xem; August, 2007}~

Feeling SeXy 2Nite [Here I Stand]

I am sitting here, reading ALL of the Emails that I have received in reference to My

HOMAGE FareWell XCLuSiVe, and I am Sooo Overwhelmed.

I DONT Understand WHY Yall DONT Comment HERE, On the Site. NeverTheLess, You All Make Me feel like the Most IMPORTANT Man on the Face of this Earth. Seriously...

Aside from that, I am Xtremely SLEEPY, and feeling Xtremely SEXY, Simultaneously.

I stumbled across USHER'S New Album, HERE I STAND, Online, 2Nite, and I am REALLY Diggin the Sensuous Vibe of these Tracks. Im such the Pessimist, So CLEARLY, I didnt Xpect Much of this Project, at all. However, at this Point, I am Very taken aback by the Tension Filled Sexuality that Exudes from the Lyrics that Create such Stand-Out Songs as, TRADING PLACES, WHATS A MAN TO DO, HERE I STAND, and My Two Favorites thus far; LOVE YOU GENTLY, as well as LIFETIME. OoooLaLa.

Usher Sounds So GOOD on this Album. He has grown Lyrically, Rhythmically and Erotically between this 5th Studio Album Compilation, and 1995's Confessions. He plays with the UnWritten Xpose' that is a Relationship filled with Romance, Love, Sex, Raunch and LifeTime Commitment. He speaks to his Listeners as if he's standing Center Stage in a Smoke-Filled Poetry Lounge. His Words are Direct, Blunt, Forceful and Abrasive beyond Xpectation.

This Album could Very Well do as SIN.Sationally as Confessions; 'Commercially'.

Its Got Me in a Lil MOOD...

Click HERE to Listen to Ushers ENTIRE Album.

Pay Very CLOSE Attention to the Tracks Ive Mentioned ABOVE.

HERE I STAND is being Released NationWide, NEXT Tuesday.

'Life Without Photographs are Moments that Never Happened'~{Xem; August, 2007}~

MADONNA's NeW Album:... MARIAH Who?

Madonna's Latest Studio LP

In Stores NOW!

I dont even know Where to Honestly begin in regards to reviewing what is, One of the BEST Albums to be released by a Music Icon, Production-Wise, in the Past Year or So; EXCLUDING Alicia Keys, of course.

For some reason, I did NOT Download any of the Pre-Released Tracks from this Album via Other Blogs, Music Sites, YouTube, or DailyMotion. MANY of My Favorite Socialites Sent Me various URL's and LINKS to Pre.View this Album for Early Post and Review, but I didnt actually Visit them. Instead, I WAITED, until Yesterday, inbetween Clients, to Purchase Madonna's 13th Studio Effort.

A-Fuckin-Mazing!

The Production of this Album SOARS Far and Above that of Mariah's latest Compilation, Mary's December release, Beyonce's 2006 'B Day', and EVERYTHING else, pretty much, MainStream. The Energy, Rhythms and Bellowed Beats of Madonnas HARD CANDY, 12 Track Masterpiece, presents Triumphs in the wave of Music and the Direction of its PoP/Hip-PoP/R&B, Mixological Genre. Not Only did Madonna garner the Musical Genius of Timbaland, Nate 'Danja' Hills, Justin Timberlake, and the Ultimate, PHARREL Williams, to Pen the Majority of the Tracks that comprise HARD CANDY, but its EVIDENT that She actually hand selected CERTAIN Tracks to appear on the album, in an order that transcends an Easy, Dance Hall Listen.

Though I am in LOVE with the Lead Single, 4 MINUTES TO SAVE THE WORLD, it is Pharrel whose Tracks create the Seed and Bloom of Whats to Be, Madonna's Aging Classic. In the groove of her Timeless Material, LUCKY STAR, MATERIAL GIRL, HOLIDAY, INTO THE GROOVE, VOGUE, LIKE A VIRGIN and EXPRESS YOURSELF, Madonnas Most recent, Contemporary Material, is a Stem of What We have All Known, Heard and Xpected from her Majesty.

Pharrel has Contributed 7 Out of 12 Tracks to this Urban, Dance Hall Classic, and Im TELLING ALL of YOU that its Some of his BEST Work, since penning Britney Spears' 2001, Urban, CrossOver Materpiece, 'Im a Slave'.

There are THREE Tracks Back-to-Back, BEGINNING with Number 7, INCREDIBLE, followed by BEAT GOES ON ft. KANYE WEST, DANCE 2NITE ft. JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE, and SPANISH LESSON, that simply helms the Essense of MainStream, AirPlay Gold.

Though, I WILL agree with some of the harsher critics, that Some of the Material could have easily been recorded by Fashion Icon, GWEN STEFANI, or Chart Topper, NELLY FERTADO, There's Something Varying about this Work. What PHARREL does, Musically and Rhythmically with INCREDIBLE, is simply Innovation at its Most Promising Peak. He takes the Song, and Delivers 3-4, Completely Different Paces and Production Genres into One. Its Sooo SIN.Sational.

I LOVE and ADORE this Album. Seriously, THIS is going to be the Album that SoundTracks the Next 2 Seasons of My Life. From NOW, until the END of the Summer, I am Sooo going to be Blasting and Promoting this Album. So, for those of You who See Me, Chill with Me, Party with Me, Lay with Me, and Dance with Me between Today, May 1st, and Labor Day Weekend...

XPECT to Bite Into the Sweet, Rare, Musical Genius of MADONNA's 'HARD CANDY'

'Life Without Photographs are Moments that Never Happened'~{Xem; August, 2007}~

New Artist Alert: SOPHIE GREEN

The Up & Coming St*rLett:

SOPHIE GREEN

So, as Im Posting this New Artist Alert to ALL of You Socialites, Stars and Celeb.u.Tantes, Im listening to the Synergetic, Honey Dew Vocals of Miss. Sophie Green; Sprayed upon this Classic Sounding, 1980ish Track, RELAPSE. Sophie is yet another Beauty whose looks could be mistakened for another Girl who will easily be swallowed and swayed by the Channeling and Chaos of the Industry. However, as Im SERIOUSLY Giving this Starlets Music a Good Listen, Im getting a World-Wide, Import Vibe of a Woman whose Influences DEFINITELY include Miss. KELIS and Miss. AMERIE themselves. On the Chant Infested Track, FREEZE, Sophie, tells us that the Blast of Music Makes her Want to get on the Floor and Move. She SCREAMS '9-1-1' with a Feminine Anx of Empowerment that suggests a New Star on the Rise....

Ladies and Gentlemen...

SOPHIE GREEN

Jump on Her HEELS.

[Click Above]

Leave her a MySpace Message, and Say that XEM Sent You.

'Life Without Photographs are Moments that Never Happened'~{Xem; August, 2007}~