Jimmy Ruffin (RIP)

A witness to the barbaric murder of a Birmingham businessman, butchered and left to rot under the sun beating down on a Jamaican sugar cane plantation, has pleaded: “I want these killers caught, they have ruined my life, too.” Leroy “Randy” Thompson was behind the wheel of the hire car ferrying Keith Murrain when the three killers struck, pouncing as the Edgbaston dad answered a call of nature at the roadside. The terrified victim was stripped of belongings before kidnappers slit his throat and flung the mutilated body into a shallow grave. Mr Thompson, who says he was pistol-whipped and left for dead, said he had been “interrogated” by paradise island detectives, but stressed: “I am clean.“I had nothing to do with this  More at Mail

Kenya boys invention works!  Richard Turere, 13, doesn't like lions. In fact, he hates them. Yet this bright Maasai boy has devised an innovative solution that's helping the survival of these magnificent beasts -- by keeping them away from humans. Living on the edge of Nairobi National Park, in Kenya, Turere first became responsible for herding and safeguarding his family's cattle when he was just nine. But often, his valuable livestock would be raided by the lions roaming the park's sweet savannah grasses, leaving him to count the losses. "I grew up hating lions very much," says Turere, who is from Kitengela, just south of the capital Nairobi. "They used to come at night and feed on our cattle when we were sleeping." More here

This weeks playlist Sunday 30-11-2014



Van McCoy - Let Me Down Easy
Bobby Brown - Girlfriend
Art Porter - Undercover (Inst)
Chucki Booker - Games
William Devaughn - Be Thankful.. (rmx)
Idris Elba/Maverick Sabre - You Give Me Love
Jon B - They Don't Know
Papik - Let The Music Play
Eric Benet - Why You Follow Me
Marques Houstn - Always & Forever
Nu Life - Now That I Found U
Vivian Green - Sweet Memory
Lucy Pearl - Lala

Jimmy Ruffin x3 (1936-2014)
1 Falling In Love With You 2 Family Affair
3 Tell Me What You Want

Funk Brothers - What..
... Becomes Of The Broken Hearted (inst)
Drizabone - Brightest Star
Latoya London - Scandalous
Dangerfield Newbies - Heaven Sent
Black Grass - So Many Ways
Maze - Call On Me
Curtis Mayfield - It's Alright (alt)
Lin Roundtree - Rock My World (Inst)
Shirley Brown - After A Night Like This
Stevie Wonder - All I Do
Co-Ed - Sumthin On U
Alex Latimore - Rising To The Top (Inst)

Jimmy Ruffin's Biography:

Passed 17-11-14. Jimmy Ruffin was born in Collinsville, Mississippi to Eli, a sharecropper, and Ophelia Ruffin. He was approaching his fifth birthday when his younger brother David was born. As children, the brothers began singing with a gospel group, the Dixie Nightingales.

In 1961, Jimmy became a singer as part of the Motown stable, mostly on sessions but also recording singles for its subsidiary Miracle label, but was then drafted for national service. After leaving the Army in 1964, he returned to Motown, where he was offered the opportunity to join the Temptations to replace Elbridge Bryant. However, after hearing his brother David, they hired him for the job instead so Jimmy decided to resume his solo career. Ruffin recorded for Motown's subsidiary Soul label, but with little success. More @ Wiki

after 10 years PCRL back for a day!

Tank

Idris Elba steps onto the music scene with new album, 'mi Mandela,' scheduled to drop on November 24th. During 2013, Idris had the prestigious opportunity to play the role of Nelson Mandela in the film, ‘Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom.’ Throughout the course of learning the role of Mandela, Elba was instantly inspired by the idea of ‘mi Mandela’ in Johannesburg.
"South Africa has numerous different tribes and each one has a musical expression, and each one has a very unique, different sound style," he explains. "At the time I had my studio at the apartment I was staying in while I was making Mandela - a little keyboard, a laptop - and as an experiment to myself, I vowed to keep making music." 
It took the influence of another great man to bring the concept to fruition. Idris premiered the film for his father, who then encouraged him to bring the musical album to life. With tracks recorded between trips to Johannesburg, London and Mali, the album has a variety of contributors including Mumford & Sons, James Blake and George The Poet. More at Singersroom

Lifetime’s Controversial Aaliyah Movie Receives Huge Ratings Lifetime may have faced backlash over its life story of singer Aaliyah, but the biopic, ‘Aaliyah: The Princess of R&B,’ pulled in huge ratings for the network with over 3.2 million viewers tuning in. Billboard reveals the effort ranks as the No. 2 television movie of the year. Of the 3.2 million viewers who tuned into the Nov. 15 premiere, 1.7 million were in the 18-49 demographic. The film’s executive producer, Wendy Williams, defended the movie from criticism by standing behind her ratings. “Everybody got an opinion!” the comedienne laughed on her talk show earlier this week. “Whether you loved or hate, you watched.”  Everyone from fans to the ‘Try Again’ chanteuse’s former producer Timbaland chimed in on how disappointed they were in the overall casting and storyline. He felt the movie “wasn’t done right.” “I don’t want to just diss this lady [Wendy Williams] like that, I want to know the full details, before I really, really go in,” Timbaland said. “The only thing that I know is that you are showing a mockery on TV.” More at Boombox

Mr. Merry went to a fundraising evening at Birmingham's Hyatt Hotel on Friday. It was an Awareness Night for Prostrate Cancer: 'It's A Man Thing', which is more prevalent in the black population apparently! Also present was Prof. Nick James, John Hoo, Courtney Pine & The late Andy Hamilton's family. John Hoo was recently treated for cancer by the excellent staff at  the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham, he once played for Andy Hamilton's Jazz band.  The Professor of Clinical Oncology specialising in urological cancer gave an excellent oratory to a soon quite listening audience. A low cost fundraising CD was also released on the day which can be obtained from iTunes, etc,. (see flier) Guys get yourself s checked now! (see video below)

Prof. Nick James, John Hoo & Courtney Pine

Playlist for 23-11-2014

Stevie Wonder/Ngicuelela - Es Una Historia (I Am Singing)
Joe - Baby
St. Germaine - Sure Thing
El Debarge - Lay With You
Maysa - Sophisticated Lover
Groove Association - Do You Remember
Atlantic Starr - Touch A Four Leaf Clover
Victor Haynes - Feel
Gap Band - Keep Holdin' On
Don-E - Unbreakable
Collage - When You Smile
Lisa Stansfield - You Can't Deny It

Tank x3
1 You're My Star 2 My Body
3 I Can't Make You Love Me


Prostate Cancer Aware - It's A Man Thing
Curtis Mayfield - She Don't Tell Nobody
Jacksons - Heartbreak Hotel
Attitudes - Sweet Music
Jermaine Jackson - Paradise In You Eyes
Barbara Acklin - Am I The Same Girl
Al Wilson - Show & Tell
Barry White - It's Only Love Doing it's Thing
David Ruffin - Walk Away From Love

Biography for Tank:

Tank was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and moved with his family as a child to the Washington, D.C. suburb of Clinton, Maryland. He was a multi-sport athlete at Crossland High School and was offered the opportunity to play college football. However, Tank decided to focus on music and his talent eventually led him to an opportunity to sing background vocals for Ginuwine during one of Ginuwine's tours. In 2001, following Ginuwine's successful tour, Tank released his debut album Force of Nature which spawned the R&B Top Ten single "Maybe I Deserve". In 2002, Tank released his second album One Man and a single of the same name. Tank released his third solo album entitled Sex, Love & Pain on May 15, 2007. The lead single was intended to be "I Luv Dem Girls", but for unknown reasons the song was given to Marques Houston who renamed it "Strip Club" (intending to place it on his third solo album Veteran). However, "Strip Club" did not make Veteran so the final single was theTimbaland remix to "I Luv Dem Girls". The second single was "Please Don't Go". Later in the year Tank, Ginuwine and Tyrese Gibson formed a group called TGT. Their first single was a remix of "Please Don't Go." The group was put on hold due to contractional issues, but made it official by signing a contract with Atlantic Records in September 2012. Tank released his fourth studio album, Now or Never, on December 14, 2010. Tank collaborated with other artists on this project like Chris Brown, Drake, Letoya Luckett and many other artists. The singles were "Sex Music", "I Can't Make You Love Me", and "Emergency". More at Wiki

Joe Sample

While on the promotional tour for her new children's book, "Blue Moon: From the Journals of MaMa Mae and LeeLee," Alicia Keys made a pit stop on 'The Wendy Williams Show.' This past Wednesday, the R&B singer spoke to Wendy about her marriage to famed Producer, Swizz Beats, being a mother of two and the children’s book. Informing fans that the new book is based on the relationship between her grandmother and herself, she says: “It’s such an important thing, the relationship between child, mother and grandparent, and this [book] really shows that,” she explained. Walking on stage with a timeless glow, Alicia also spoke some truth to Wendy about influencing the children. “It’s about the kids, and so when everybody is able to be an adult, which we all are able to be, there’s actually a beautiful value about the way we can influence each other’s lives and the lives of the kids,” she said. singersroom

The Queen of R&B met the Queen of daytime TV on Thursday as Mary J. Blige brought The London Sessions stateside. For her first televised performance in promotion of the new album, Mary graced the stage of the “Ellen” show with a hair-raising performance of “Right Now,” written and produced by Disclosure, Sam Smith, and Jimmy Napes. She also sat down to discuss the project, which Ellen called her favorite Mary album. In anticipation of the December 2 release, Mary will perform at the American Music Awards on Nov. 23, “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” on Dec. 1, and “A Very GRAMMY Christmas,” which airs Dec. 5.  This Is R&B.com

Playlist for Sunday 15-11-2014



Kenny G - If I Aint Get You
Alicia Keys - If I Ain't Got You
Grover Washington Jr - Jamming
Dionne Warwick - Move Me No Mountain
Betty Wright - Make Me Love The Rain
Don-E - You're Special
Kindred Family Soul - Call Me Crazy
Alex O'Neal - Look At It Now
Deniese Williams - 'cus You Love Me Baby
Natasha Watts - Go Slow
Angie Stone - Brotha
Barry White - Early Years

Joe Sample x3
1 Snowflake 2 The Road Less Traveled
3 In My Wildest Dreams

Glen Goldsmith - So At Ease
Next - Look After Love
Pam & Dodi - Gatta Give It Up
Dwele - I Know Your Name
Dramatics - Key To The World
William DeVaughn - Figures Can't Calculate
Loretta Wood - Do It Right
Bobby Nunn - Don't Knock It..
Rhythm Jazz - Just In Case

Joe Sample's Biography:

Joseph Leslie "Joe" Sample (February 1, 1939 – September 12, 2014) was an American pianist, keyboard player, and composer. He was one of the founding members of the Jazz Crusaders, the band which became simply the Crusaders in 1971, and remained a part of the group until its final album in 1991 (not including the 2003 reunion album Rural Renewal). Beginning in the early 1980s, he enjoyed a successful solo career and guested on many recordings by other performers and groups, including Miles Davis, George Benson, Jimmy Witherspoon, B. B. King, Eric Clapton, Steely Dan, and the Supremes. Sample incorporated jazz, gospel, blues, Latin, and classical forms into his music.

On September 12, 2014, Sample died in Houston, Texas, of lung cancer at age 75. More: Wipipedia

Brook Benton

Remembrance Day (also known as Poppy Day) is a memorial day observed in Commonwealth of Nations member states since the end of the First World War to remember the members of their armed forces who have died in the line of duty. The day, specifically designated by King George V on 7 November 1919, or alternative dates, are also recognised as special days for war remembrances in many non-Commonwealth countries. Remembrance Day is observed on 11 November to recall the end of hostilities of World War I on that date in 1918. Hostilities formally ended "at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month", in accordance with the armistice signed by representatives of Germany and the Entente between 5:12 and 5:20 that morning. ("At the 11th hour" refers to the passing of the 11th hour, or 11:00 am.) The First World War officially ended with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles on 28 June 1919. More

Well done to Jacque, it's official, we can trust her! Photo: Cat Hayward, Chief Executive of Age UK Birmingham, and Jacque Henry of Jacque of all trades (Property Maintenance Company). Age UK Birmingham recently launched its business directory of trustworthy local traders and businesses. All of the local businesses involved in the project have been checked and agree to abide by a customer charter to ensure they offer excellent customer service. By offering this service, Age UK Birmingham hopes to be able to protect older people from rogue traders and doorstep callers, presenting them an alternative and safer way to select traders and businesses. More at Mail

Playlist for Sunday 07-11-2014



Angie Stone - Sisters
Bilal -Soul Sista
George Howard - I Want You For Myself
Syleena Johnson - Another Relationship
Aaliyah - Rock The Boat (Remix)
Calvin Richardson - - We Gon' Love Tonight
Mike Winans - You Deserve A Break
Dianne Reeves - Dreams
Brian Culbertson/K.Lattimore - Another Love
Taheesha Renee - Loves Taken Over
Gwen Guthrie - Send Me Somebody

Brook Benton x3
1 It's All In The Game 2 Endlessly
3 Rainy Night In Georgia

Blue Zone - Big Thing
Venus Malone - Inhale Exhale
Luther Vandross - Get It Right
Gerry Woo - Help Yourself
Algebra Blessett - U Do It For Me
Faith Evans - I Just Can't
Michael Cooper - Steppin To A Love Song
Fried - Sugar Water Days
Tracy Carter - Everyday
Davina - So Good

Brook Benton's Biography:

Brook Benton, born Benjamin Franklin Peay, (September 19, 1931 – April 9, 1988) was an American singer and songwriter who was popular with rock and roll, rhythm and blues, and pop music audiences during the late 1950s and early 1960s, when he scored hits such as "It's Just A Matter Of Time" and "Endlessly", many of which he co-wrote. He made a comeback in 1970 with the ballad "Rainy Night in Georgia." Benton scored over 50 Billboard chart hits as an artist, and also wrote hits for other performers. More at wiki

Maurice Norton 1925-2014 (He loved his radio)

Angela Bofill

Cecil Morris & Beji from Observer Sound are putting together a '30 years in the business' dance with tributes to parted PCRL DJ's and Reggae legend singers like John Holt. It's been 10 years since PCRL was forced off air after consortium of local radio stations threatened to serve a writ against the station.

Having just lost a court case against the government, it was unlikely that they could have survived the large writ and legal costs, so was forced off the air after decades of broadcasting! Mr Merry's radio station and dozens more around the country owe there existence thanks to the the fight these guys stood up for! So if you have fond memories of the old station or just enjoy revival music please come along and join us at this celebration.



Play list for Sunday 1-11-2014



Dru Hill - Tell Me
Mica Paris - Six Street
Vincent Ingala - Just Imagine
Anthony Hamilton - I Tried
Brian McKnight - U Turn
Carmen Lundy - Everything I Need
Angela Johnson - I Promise (M.O.N.E.Y)
Cie - When I Think
Ty Macklin - Soul Lover
Deborah Cox - On Wish
Lorretta - Miss You
Heatwave - Mind Blowing Decisions

Angela Bofill x3
1 Gotta Make It Up To Yo
2 Something About You
3 Baby I Need Your Love

Victor Haynes - Feel
Zanye - Crazy Love
William Bell - Headline News
Groove Assn - Somethings Changed
 "           "       - Old Skool Magic
Terri Wells - Just Like Dreamin'
Lisa Stansfield - Whan Are You Coming Back?
Roy Ayers - Love Will Bring Us Back Together

Angela Bofill's Biography:

Angela Bofill was born to a Cuban father and a Puerto Rican mother. She performed with Ricardo Marrero & the Group and Dance Theater of Harlem chorus prior to being introduced to Dave Grusin and Larry Rosen (of the jazz label GRP Records) by her friend, the jazz flautist Dave Valentin.  Grusin and Rosen signed Bofill and produced her first album, Angie, in 1978. Angie was well received both critically and commercially and included the chart single "This Time I'll Be Sweeter" (co-written by Gwen Guthrie), as well as Bofill's sprawling jazz composition, "Under the Moon and Over the Sky". Less than a year later, a second album, Angel of the Night was released and outperformed its predecessor. The album included the chart singles "What I Wouldn't Do (For the Love of You)" and the up tempo title track, as well as the self-written song "I Try" (covered by Will Downing in 1991). The reception of these albums positioned Bofill as one of the first Latina singers to find success in the R&B and jazz markets. More at Wiki

Conscious Plat

The Reggae singer and songwriter, John Holt, has died.THE FAMILY of the late reggae legend John Holt, has confirmed that the singer died of cancer.Holt's nephew, Tex exclusively told The Voice, that his uncle was ill with cancer, and passed away in the early hours of Monday morning (Oct 20). Tex, told The Voice: "We've only known about the cancer for a few months.
The singer, who was 69 years old, was being treated at The Wellington Hospital in St John's Wood, northwest London. Tex added: "I have so many fond memories of him enjoying life and having fun. He always looked to the bright side." The musician is well known for writing and singing the original version of The Tide Is High in 1967 - which was later covered by Blondie, Gregory Isaacs and Atomic Kitten. Holt’s childhood friend, and fellow Jamaican singer, Winston Francis – also known as King Cool – last spoke to Holt last week. He said to The Voice: “He told me he wasn’t very well. He said to me ‘I can only pray and keep my fingers crossed’.” Francis added: “I feel proud to have known John. He was such a gentleman and always so dignified.” Born on July 11 1945 in Kingston, Jamaica, Holt came to prominence as lead singer of the group The Paragons. Their hits included Ali Baba, Tonight and I See Your Face. Holt left the band in 1970 to focus on his solo career, where his 1972 single Stick by Me went on to become the biggest selling Jamaican record of that same year. Famed for incorporating orchestras in his live shows, his romantic love songs, and his iconic album 1,000 Volts of Holt, the Jamaican singer found favour with his powerful live performances, and is widely considered reggae royalty amongst the genre’s aficionados. The reggae community was stunned by the news that the icon had passed away, and tributes have poured in from the international artists including Shaggy, Sean Paul and Beverley Knight. The family are currently arranging the funeral details, and have confirmed that Holt's body will be sent to Jamaica for burial. (the voice)

Mary J Blige will be performing at the NIA, Saturday 15th November. Her new album might be called The London Sessions, but Mary J. Blige is giving us true Brooklyn MJB in the official music video to her UK single “Right Now“! Serving as the lead track from her upcoming LP, the Disclosure-produced track has been receiving a high amount of praise from Mary’s dedicated fans. With 20+ years as a dominating force in the industry, it’s no question as to why she’s been dubbed “The Queen”. From riding around London town in her black Bentley to taking over the stage at a dance club, this video will remind you just why you love Mary J. oh so much.

Playlist Sunday 26-10-2014



Wendell B - When It Don't Make Sense
Angie Stone - Do What U Gotta Do
Grover Washington Jr. - Jamming
Monique Thomas - Daughter Shine
Eric Nolan - Reminds Me
Garcia - Praying For Rain
Joe - Future TEller
Victor Haynes - My Time Is Right Here
Jack Radics - Good Lovin'
Yasmine Amari - Chose To Be
Garvin Christoher - WE'll Always Be Together
Bo Kirkland & Ruth Davis - You're Gonna Get Next To Me
Barry White - Midnight & You

Conscious Plat x 3
1 I'm A Queen 2 My Sistah 3 Black Pharaohs

Just Right Band - I Want More
Linda Clifford - I Just Can't Let This Good Thing Get Away
Don-E - (loose Ends Remix)
Gary Brown - - Somebody Been Sleeping In My Bed
Side Effect - SOS
Ronnie Mc Neir - Everybody's In A Hurry
John Holt (RIP) - Never, Never, Never
Al Hudson & Soul Partners - Spread Love

Conscious Plat Biography:

I am Conscious Plat a Nubian Queen who is a singer, writer and poet. My music is available on Itunes, Amazon and CD Baby. I create songs and poetry for the purpose of empowering The People. My mission is to impact many with my poetry and songs. I want to reach as many of my people as possible but even if I reach a few, I am still victorious. I promote Black Unity and Black Love. We must bond together if we want to rise above our adversities. Peace

Their website closed in 2013, but this was the welcome message: Welcome to The Conscious African Mind. This site was created by singer songwriter Conscious Plat for the purpose of Uniting People of African descent. The various videos, blogs and other post does not necessarily reflect the views of Conscious Plat. Members are welcome to freely post content to the site but are encouraged to do so in a respectful manor. Religious preferences, Political views, etc. are not a determining factor for membership at The Conscious African Mind. Our main goals are promoting unity, circulating knowledge, peace and love.  (Facebook)

Shola Ama

The singer, songwriter and performer, Augie Johnson, has died. He was 66.Augie, apparently, died in his sleep on Friday the 10th of October, and his girlfriend discovered him Saturday morning. Augie was the creator of the Fantasy Records group, Side Effect (whose early line-up included the Gospel singer, Helen Baylor and, also, the Soul singer, Miki Howard).When Augie was a child, he began playing the clarinet, later joining a boys choir.Augie was part of a group of children, who sang on the Frank Sinatra hit song 'High Hopes'.He then learned the saxophone, and formed his first group, entitled The Jazztronauts.Augie attended Washington High School, later relocating to Los Angeles City College, and then becoming enlisted into the military.Side Effect were created in 1972. Prior to the groups incarnation, Augie was a member of an earlier incarnation of the same band, called the Cultures.

As a songwriter, he is fondly remembered for many of his own compositions, which included, the L.A. Boppers evergreen, 'Watching Life'. Further writing, arrangement and production credits, include recordings by the likes of Pleasure, Wayne Henderson, Esther Phillips, The Boppers, Hilary, David Oliver, Light Of The World, West Street Mob and Yasuko Agawa. Recently the Daily Mail have suggested that his son (Brandon) was actually, Michael Jackson's son after DNA tests, this may have all been too much for him, who knows. He'll be missed, thanks for all that great music!

Stevie Wonder is going to be a proud papa — again. The superstar and his fiancée, 25 year-old Tomeeka Robyn Bracy, are reportedly expecting triplets. Once the three babies arrive, the lauded singer will have a total of 11 children. Radar Online shares the news via the National Enquirer. “Stevie never thought he’d be a father again so late in life,” a source told The Enquirer. “It may not have been planned but now he’s excited! The ‘Songs in the Key of Life’ creator had a child with Bracy last year, which apparently flew under the radar. “He’s been going to all the doctor’s visits and scans with Tomeeka. He actually can’t wait until the birth. Stevie missed so much of his other children’s upbringings, he’s vowed to be there for their children and for his soon-to-be new wife,” the source revealed. Bracy and Stevie apparently live together in Los Angeles, with their child who was born last year. Two years ago, he divorced his ex-wife of 11 years, Kai Millard Morris. They have children together: Kailand, 13, and Mandla, 9. Stevie wrote his 1976 hit ‘Isn’t She Lovely’ for the birth of his daughter Aisha. Maybe triplets will inspire new music from the 64-year-old legend. Next month he’ll embark on an 11-city jaunt dubbed the Songs in the Key of Life Performance Tour. The singer will begin in New York on Nov. 6 and wrap up in Oakland, Calif., on Dec. 5. (boombox)

Playlist for Sunday 19-10-2014



Hour one
Aretha Franklin - People Get ready
Marvin Gaye - After The Dance
Kim Waters - Steppin' In The Name Of Love
Melissa Morgan - Heartbreaking Decision
Cee Lo Green - My Kinda People
Rosie Gains - Good Times
Jermaine Jackson - You Like Me Don't You
Latoya Jackson - Camp Kutchi Kia
Blackstreet - Don't Leave Me (remix)
Lo-Key - Good Ole Fashion Love
Donell Jones - I Can Make You Feel Real Good


Hour 2
Shola Ama x3
1 Who's Lovin' My Baby 2 In Return
3 Much Love

EWF - On Your Face
James Brown - There It Is
Don-E - Little Star
Darwin Hobbs/Michael McDonald - Everyday
Emotions - Eternally
ZZ Hill - Cheating In The Next Room
Curtis Hairston - Chilling Out
Sir Charles Jones - Do You Feel

Shola Ama's Biography:

Campbell was born in Paddington, London, England, of a white father (Scottish and Irish) and St. Lucian mother. She attended Quintin Kynaston School in the early 1990s. At 15, she was singing to herself on a platform at Hammersmith tube station, and was overheard by Kwame Kwaten, a producer at the FreakStreet record label. In 1995, an unknown independent label released a single titled "Celebrate", which was a ballad produced by D'Influence. Although the single was not a commercial success, it did draw attention to Shola Ama as an artist. On her 16th birthday, she signed a recording contract with WEA.

The single "You're the One I Love" was her first single release for WEA in 1996; it barely made an impact on the charts, only managing to reach No. 85. Her second WEA single, "You Might Need Somebody", remains her biggest hit. This Randy Crawford cover reached No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart. It remained in the top 40 for almost two months, becoming one of 1997's biggest hits. A re-release of "You're the One I Love" followed and reached #3. At the age of 18, Shola Ama released her debut album Much Love (1997).

On the success of the album, Shola Ama won a Brit Award for Best British Female and two MOBO Awards for Best Newcomer and Best R&B Act. More here

Keyshia Cole

Playlist for Sunday 12-10-2014
(sorry no audio supplied this week- Ed)

Amazonics - Redemption Song
Conscious Plat - Black Pharaoh's
Art Porter - Under cover
Teddy Pendergrass - Believe In Love
Eric Benet - Weekend Girl
Betty Wright - Share My Love
Kenny Lattimore - What Must I Do
Doc Pearson - Very Soon
Drizabone - Brightest Star
Big Bub - Zoom
Sire Charles Jones - Independent Ladies
Afi Soul - I'm Gone Shine
Allen Stone - Is This Love

Keyshia Cole x3
1 Beautiful Music 2 Heaven Sent 3 Trust

Sir Charles Jones - Do You Feel
Sunshine Andersn - Say Something
Allure - Enjoy Yourself
Alexander O'Neal - What's Missing
Tony Stone - Can't Say Bye
Aretha Franklin - It Only Happens
Staple Singers - Love Me x3/ Let's Do It Again

Keyshia Cole biography:

Keyshia Cole (born October 15, 1981), is a Grammy-nominated American R&B singer/songwriter, record producer, businesswoman and television personality. She was born in Oakland, California, and her career began when she met MC Hammer at the age of twelve and later met rapper Tupac Shakur. At the age of eighteen she moved to Los Angeles and was later introduced to A&M Records. She released her debut album, The Way It Is (2005), which five singles: "Never", "I Changed My Mind", "(I Just Want It) To Be Over", "I Should Have Cheated", and "Love". It was certified gold within 17 weeks, and then platinum just eight weeks later. The album stayed on the charts for over a year, eventually selling over 1.6 million copies. More here

Al Jarreau

In the news.. With the premiere of Lifetime’s “Aaliyah: Princess of R&B” airing soon on November 15, the network has revved up promo to deliver to the masses the highly-anticipated film about the late R&B star.In a short clip, Lifetime drops the first TV advertisement for the film starring Alexandra Shipp (pictured above) as Aaliyah. The clip also gives us more detail about the time it will air: 8/7c.  According to Wendy Williams, (whose production company logged on for the film), the movie will focus on her record deal at the age of 12, the controversial relationship with R. Kelly, how she took a risk against her label’s orders to work with then-up-and-coming producers Timbaland and Missy Elliot, and more. Despite the Haughton family's wishes to halt the production, the network seem gung ho about pushing this out...and with the quickness.

A schoolboy died after staff at a Birmingham hospital “missed opportunities” to save his life, a coroner has ruled in a damning inquest. Emmanuel Akinmuyiwa, seven, collapsed and died when he suffered a cardiac arrest during a blood transfusion at Heartlands Hospital. The procedure was performed four days after the youngster, from Tyseley, was admitted on February 8, 2013. Birmingham Coroner’s Court heard how Emmanuel would have survived had staff taken blood tests which would have shown a transfusion was required far sooner. More Mail

Lewis Hamilton secured a third successive win to move 10 points clear in the drivers' standings at a Japanese Grand Prix that was overshadowed by a crash that left Marussia driver Jules Bianchi unconscious. The leader did not take the chequered flag as the race was red-flagged for a second time in the afternoon following two separate crashes on the same corner. Hamilton had started behind pole sitter Nico Rosberg on the grid but passed his Mercedes team-mate and rival to open up a 10-point gap in their battle for the title. More @ Mail


Playlist for Sunday 05-10-2014



Al Green - Loving You
Deborah Cox - The Sound Of My Tears
Monique Thomas - Daughter Shine
Algebra Blessett - Nobody But You
Gwenolyn Collins - Beautiful Fantasy
Ca$e & Joe - Faded Pictures
Loretta - Miss You
Anita Baker - Feel The Need
Quincy Jones - Tomorrow
Phil Perry - You Send Me
Rick Braun -  Dance With My Father

Al Jarreau x3
1 Sweet Baby 2 Bright & Sunny Babe
3 We're In This Thing Together

Fried - Sugar Water Days
Rhythm & Jazz - Just In Case
Next - Looking For Love
Tracy Carter - Everyday
Charme - Georgy Porgy
Garfield Fleming - Don't Send Me Away
Don-E - You're So Special
Curtis Mayfield - Your So Good To Me

Al Jarreau Biography:

Jarreau was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the fifth of six children. His website refers to Reservoir Avenue, the name of the street where he lived. His father was a Seventh-day Adventist Church minister and singer, and his mother was a church pianist. He and his family sang together in church concerts and in benefits, and he and his mother performed at PTA meetings.

He was student council president and Badger Boys State delegate for Lincoln High School, going on to Ripon College, where he also sang with a group called the Indigos. Jarreau graduated in 1962 with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology. He went on to earn a master's degree in vocational rehabilitation from the University of Iowa, worked as a rehabilitation counselor in San Francisco, and moonlighted with a jazz trio headed by George Duke.

In 1967, he joined forces with acoustic guitarist Julio Martinez. The duo became the star attraction at a small Sausalito night club called Gatsby's. This success contributed to Jarreau's decision to make professional singing his life and full-time career. More @ Wiki

Mary, Mary

Ida Keeling, a 99-year-old great-great-grandmother from New York, recently became the 95-99 age group world record holder in the 100-meter run. Ida finished in 59.8 seconds, becoming the first woman in history to compete in the event in the 95+ age group in an internationally certified race.

Ida, just 4 feet 6 and 83 pounds, started competitive running at age 67 to help deal with grief over losing her two sons in drug-related homicides. Her advice on longevity? “Eat for nutrition, not for taste. Do what you need to do, not what you want to do and don’t leave out your daily exercise. Love yourself.”

In recent weeks Gospel singer, Erica Campbell has received an unexpected amount backlash stemming from a promotional photo taken for her forthcoming March 25 solo debut album, “Help.” And though the Mary Mary songstress posted the glamorous photograph via her personal Instagram account following the announcement of her Grammy Award nomination, various members from the Christian community have deemed the image a bit inappropriate. According to Clutch Magazine, Apostle Stacey Woods of Impact Outreach Ministries, Inc. lashed out at the 41-year-old on Facebook for her form fitting white attire. Yesterday (Dec. 17) Campbell responded to critics during an exclusive interview with Essence.com. And while she admitted that she felt “beautiful,” “confident,” & “strong,” with the support of her family during the photo shoot, she added that the criticism should yield itself a more in depth conversation towards Christianity and sexuality. "This is about confidence and realizing that God made you and that you are beautiful just the way you are," she said. "I think that young girls shouldn't only get sexy images from people who are not proclaiming Jesus. But I am. And I'm cute too." Aside from participating in breathtaking photo shoots, Campbell’s lead single “A Little More Jesus” is up for Best Gospel song at the 56th annual Grammy Awards, set to broadcast live from Los Angeles’ Staples Center January 26 on CBS. Huffington Post 2013

On my show today!

The new Tank album getting many 5 Star reviews on Amazon site: for example..  Wow Tank. After the side project TGT, and its sex soaked songs, it was hard to know what to expect with his new album. I prayed that he would not be afraid to write a record reflecting personal growth and employ a more mature, less electronic musical background. Tank, you did it!
Tank has a taken a quantum leap forward on his new album Stronger. With music industry pressure to write vapid, love-`em and leave' em songs that don't go over the head of the fast food crowd, Tank has opted to write about the challenge of commitment. Half of the songs show a man who, after perhaps playing the field and playing with many hearts, has asked himself, `Can I grow beyond my old self?' Very appropriate for a man at his age and place in life. "If that's what it takes," "Thanking You," "Stronger," "Same way", "Hope this Makes you Love me" are all winners reflecting a man willing to grow and commit even if that means making changes.
As a bonus, Tank doesn't forget to make us dance. "You're My Star" is Tank rejoicing in having found "the one." "Dance with me, " "I Gotta Have It," "Nobody Better" are other invitations to dance, but the slower, more introspective songs are where Tank shines on this album. If an artist does not risk showing growth, despite industry pressure to `stay the same', that artist suffers.
"Stronger" is the next, logical progression of a man who is maturing.

This weeks play list 28-09-2014

Live in B,Ham 30-09-2014

Teena Marie - Da-ja-vu (I've Been Here Before)
Gospel Keynotes - Jesus Has Been Good To Me
Euge Groove - Just My Imagination
J. Poww - Thank You
Donnell Jones - Do What I Gotta Do
Groove Association - Do You Remember
Joe - Love & Sex
Aretha Franklin - Giving Him Something He Can Feel
Harold Melvin & BN - U Know How 2 Make Me Feel
Afi Soul - I'm Gonna Shine
Gwendolyn Collins - Take A Walk With Me

Mary, Mary x 3

1 Walking 2 Love You That Much 3 I Sings

Charlie Wilson - Life Of The Party

Tank - You're A Star

Troi - Never Knew Love

Zushi - Suprise, Suprise

Don-E/Natasha Watts - Big People Tings

Algebra Blessett - U Do It For Me

I Level - In The Sand

Two Tons Of Fun - Never Like This Before

George Benson - Breezin'

Mary, Mary Biography:

Mary Mary is an American contemporary gospel duo, consisting of sisters Erica Atkins-Campbell (born April 29, 1972) and Trecina "Tina" Atkins-Campbell (born May 1, 1974). The duo are often credited along with Kirk Franklin for broadening the fan base of urban contemporary gospel in the 2000s by introducing elements of soul music, hip hop, funk and jazz. Mary Mary broke onto the music scene with their popular song "Shackles (Praise You)"—which is considered one of the pioneering songs of urban contemporary gospel music. The group's name, as stated in an interview is inspired by the two famous Mary's from the Bible; Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, and Mary Magdalene.
Their debut album, Thankful (2000), was certified Platinum. In addition, the duo has released two Gold albums: Incredible (2002) and Mary Mary (2005), both of which have charted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Gospel Albums. They have also received four Grammys, among other awards. In 2011, they released their fifth studio album, Something Big.

In March 2012, they premiered their own television series, Mary Mary, on WE tv. A second season premiered in December 2012 and concluded in February 2013. Their most recently released album is their first compilation album, Go Get It (2012), with the hit single of the same name. Then the third season premieres on February 27. More @ Wiki

Thought for the day:

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