Chicago Defender Arts & Entertainment Editor Mary L. Datcher
New Music Mondays
New Music Mondays is a weekly feature highlighting key Editor picks for Urban music lovers. New music from major record companies to independent label releases gives readers an inside look at what’s currently out as well as upcoming CD projects from new and established artists.
Lalah Hathaway
“LIVE!”
If you love a musician’s musician CD, then you’ll fall in love with Lalah Hathaway’s “Live!” album. The two-time Grammy singer, dropped two cover singles in August, “Angel” and “Little Ghetto Boy” setting up her independent release on October 30th. Available on eOne Distribution, Hathaway utilized the latest fan virtual fan engagement, Pledgemusic.com as a great marketing tool to raise funds for her latest project. The venture worked wonders, not only selling out each package but also building an aggressive anticipation leading to a strong buzz on the streets. We look forward to hearing more from this Chicago native as she rises from behind the shadows of her father’s legacy, creating her very own.
As we find ourselves in the heart of the fourth quarter grind, expect to see music heavy hitters drop new full lengths. This week, new music releases include:
November 6
Angie Stone “Dream”
Available on Shanachie Records
The single, “2 Bad Habits” leads up to her independent release, introducing fans to her familiar no nonsense truths of handling love. Pre-order on Amazon.com or iTunes.com.
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Sam Smith “In the Lonely House: Drowning Shadows Edition”
Available on Capitol Music
This sophomore album is the follow up from “In the Lonely Hour”. Having taken the music industry by storm, sweeping five Grammy wins including 2014 Best Pop Vocal Album, Record of the Year, and Song of the Year—we’re all waiting in the wings on his latest release. Smith released the single, “Drowning” which he deems as one of the saddest songs and least ‘radio friendly’ song he’s written.
CeeLo Green
Available on Atlantic Records
Former co-star of “The Voice” and former frontman of Goodie Mob, CeeLo comes out with a brand new album almost after five years. The lead single, “Robin Williams” is a tribute to Hollywood’s comedian/actor who took his life last August 2014. Fans can pre-order, “Heart Blanche” which also features his second follow-up single “Sign of the Times” before it’s November 6 release.
Seal
Available on ZTT Records
Who doesn’t love this man? Seal gears up the CD release of ‘7’ which brings you back some of the beautiful, lyrically style that he and producer, Trevor Horn is best known for. Since the singer’s divorce from wife, Heidi Klum—fans have been anticipating the four-time Grammy singer to release a new project. Expect this album to discuss the emotional roller coaster of life, relationships and vulnerabilities. Check out new the music video, “Every Time I’m With You’ which is looped on his website, SEAL.com.
Talib Kweli and 9th Wonder
Available on Jamla Records
This highly anticipated collaboration is on the top hit list of every Hip Hop head that remember where they were at when they heard their first Wu-Tang track. The “Indie 500” collabo is a duel musical composition bringing Talib Kweli and 9th Wonder together for a 13-track album. Most of the album is produced by Nottz, 9th Wonder and Khrysis with continual features throughout by NIKO IS along with Pharoahe Monch, Brother Ali, Chris Rob, Planet Asia and other artists. There is also vinyl available for the collectible junkies like myself.
Terisa Griffin “Revival of Soul”
An independent release from former contestant of Season 3 “The Voice”, Terisa Griffin releases her third album, “Revival of Soul”. A native of Monroe, Louisiana, her Southern roots rings throughout each song fusing R&B, Gospel and Jazz music. Songs such as “Purple Like the Moon” which features Jazz international trumpeter, Orbert Davis and other notable musicians including Lionel Ritchie tour drummer, Oscar Seaton. Stand out songs include–”Save Me”, “Higher” and the Marvin Gaye remake, “Distant Lover”.
*Single Beatdowns of the Week*
iSHi “We Run” Feat. French Montana and Raekwon
This joint is one of my ‘repeat’ hits of the week.
Jeremih “Royalty” Feat. Future & Big Sean
The song starts out slow but Jeremih flies in his vocals to create the sound that every teen age girl craves. Another slam dunk from “Last Nights” upcoming, delayed CD. Stop teasing us and just drop the full length!
Game “All That (Lady) feature. Lil Wayne, Big Sean, Jeremih
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This Hennessy inspired video brings us back to why Hip Hop and R&B blended so well together. Bringing back a DeAngelo 1990’s hit, “Lady”–Game softens up his usual hard exterior with features by Lil Wayne, Big Sean and Chicago native, Jeremih. A refreshing change for the DJs and those don’t always feel the need to pop a ‘Molly’ to dance in the club.
*All music submissions must have links, no mp3 attachments for consideration.* Email: [email protected]
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