Tuesday, November 3, 2015

Janet Jackson Makes Triumphant Return to San Francisco with Her “Unbreakable” World Tour By Shelah Moody


It was a world party celebrating all things Janet.  On October 13 and 14, Grammy winning singer/songwriter, actress, author, activist and ultimate pop icon Janet Jackson brought her long awaited “Unbreakable” tour to San Francisco’s Bill Graham Civic Auditorium,  with two sold out shows.  Jackson last performed at the Bill Graham Civic in 2011 on the heels of her “Number Ones” tour, where she performed at smaller venues for a more intimate concert experience.
In the last four years, Jackson took a hiatus from touring, reportedly living part time in Quatar with billionaire husband Wissam Al Mana, converting to Islam and making rare appearances Fashion Week in Paris and amfAR benefits.
In the shadow of City Hall, Bill Graham Civic Auditorium was transformed into “JanFrancisco,” on Oct. 14, as a flash mob performed a  “Rhythm Nation” Janet Jackson tribute outside of the venue.  In lieu of an opening act, DJ Aktive played re-mixes of Jackson’s greatest hits, from her very first single “Young Love” (1982) to selections from “Unbreakable” (released Oct. 2), her first studio album in seven years, produced by her longtime collaborators Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis.
At the merchandise booth, which I dubbed the “Jantique,” Unbreakable world tour T-shirts sold for $45, collectible mugs, $30 and programs, $10. With each item purchased, customers received a free copy of the “Unbreakable” CD--a very good deal indeed,
Jackson’s San Francisco show proved that the Unbreakable diva is back—with more passion and energy than ever; exhilarated by the success of “Unbreakable” and its number one status on the music charts.  Ms. Jackson turned it up with a world class production featuring fireworks, slide shows, nine dancers, three background singers, four musicians and more than 30 of her most popular songs.  It was well worth the wait. Janet did not disappoint with her euphoric blend of R&B, electronic dance music, rock, funk and slow jams.

Fans screamed and set their smart phones to record as Jackson’s shapely silhouette became visible behind a screen, and the superstar appeared live, in technicolor, opening with her “Unbreakable” hit “Burn it Up” featuring Missy Elliot via video. She segued into her signature tune, “Nasty,” from her 1986 breakthrough album, “Control,” produced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis.
Nope, Ms. Jackson is apparently not “nasty” anymore. Notably missing from her show were the onstage sexcapades that Jackson became known for in the late nineties and 2000s. For example, during her 2008 “Discipline” tour, she would pick a random fan from the audience, tie him to a mechanical bed and assume the role of a dominatrix. Well, those days seem to be long gone.  Many of the songs on “Unbreakable” are built on themes of spirituality, self-actualization, regeneration, ascension and above all, love.  Unlike previous concerts, there were no wardrobe changes at this show. The recent Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee performed all night in a black couture ensemble a la Giuseppe Zanotti that covered her from head to toe.
At 49, Jackson moved with fluid, balletic grace, accompanied by her hand selected  group of dancers who call themselves the J-Tribe, performing routines  “What Have You Done For Me Lately,” “Miss U Much” “Pleasure Principle”  and “Rhythm Nation.” A trendsetter in the hair industry, Jackson skillfully manipulated her flowing curly tresses to fall into place with each move. For those who’ve  wondered what it would like to rock with Ms. Jackson in da  club, she showed off some freestyle moves during J. Cole’s pre-recorded rap on “Unbreakable’s” lead single,  “No Sleep,” pointing to the sky when J. Cole referenced her brother Michael’s song “Butterflies.”
Recovering from a vocal ailment that caused her to reschedule to shows in Las Vegas this year, Jackson’s sensual soprano was in fine form. Seated on a gold stool or strolling around the stage, Jackson took on the role of chanteuse on ballads such as “Any Time, Any Place” “Again” and “Unbreakable tracks “After You Fall,” and “Shoulda Known Better. The gracious performer periodically blew kisses to the audience sending one lucky fan home with the towel that she threw into the crowd.
During her closing song, the title track from “Unbreakable,” Jackson raised her hands and formed them into the shape of a heart. “It’s all about love,” she said. After introducing each of her musicians and dancers, Jackson thanked her fans for making “No Sleep” number one for eight weeks in a row and “Unbreakable” number one during the week of her performances. She thanked her audience for their continued love and support, “not just for me, but for my entire family,” she said. “I love you!”
Ah, if only JanTopia could last forever! For more “Unbreakable tour dates, go to www.janetjackson.com. Like her on Facebook,https://www.facebook.com/JanetJackson, follow her on Twitter @Janetjackson. For more coverage of Janet Jackson’s SF show, like Streetwise Radio on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/StreetwiseRadioGilroyCalifornia?fref=ts.

Meet the J-Tribe—Four more than two decades, Jackson’s live shows have featured some of the best dancers from around the world and launched the careers of Tina Landon, Gil Duldulao and others. Jackson’s Unbreakable tour dancers, which she refers to as her kids, include Bianca Brewton, Melanie Mah, Mishay Petronelli, Dominique Battiste (from the San Francisco Bay Area), Alexandra Carson and Allison Buckzkowski. Tween dancers Kyndall Harris and Taylor Hatala, who Jackson calls her “babies,” are the true stars of the show.
http://www.janetjackson.com/news/news/meet-janets-dancers#.ViMsDaSFPIU

Tuesday, October 27, 2015

Monday, October 19, 2015

Mali Music




Who is Mali Music? He is 27 year old Kortney Jamaal Pollard born in Phoenix, Arizona now resides in Savannah, Georgia. An accomplished singer-songwriter, record producer, musician of Gospel, R&B and Hip Hop music. Who is so underrated, it is a shame. Mali Music independently put out two albums, “The Coming (2008)” and “The 2econd Coming (2009)”, which earned him much critical and underground praise. What I really like about his music is, his unique style and that he truly worships God. It is clear he believes everything he is singing about. While writing this, I have found his music inspiring and so awesome! I believe in a higher power God and have witness it in my life. This is the kind of music that needs to be played, something to inspire people in this messed up world to be a better. DJ Michael Ealey is playing “Heavy Love” and “I Believe” on Streetwise Radio and it has gotten great reviews. Mali Music’s latest album “Mali Is”, is amazing here are some more songs I like, “Beautiful”, "Ready Aim", “All I Have To Give”, “Walking Shoes”, “Royalty” and “Fight For You”. I don’t know about you, don’t sleep on Mali Music. His music is for everyone who loves inspiring music, check him out on Streetwise Radio. You can also listen to Streetwise Radio on Pandora, iTunes, MyGen365, Athena365 and Live365.

LM
http://www.malimusicofficial.com/bio/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WIzi47iijg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxNO3KBQfmU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C09JvveF8oA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iZsC8y6gac0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-9NlWz_QoE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MwEczrs-aq4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lqHuABhYUt8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wj3pg0PdyAI

Sunday, August 23, 2015

Lianne La Havas




One of the music genres I love is Neo-Soul. The artists tell stories in the songs they sing. It is truly a shame that they don’t get the on-air radio play they deserve. Lianne La Havas is one of those rare artist who refuses to alter her artistry to keep up with the industry, so she is not played on the on-air radio stations. I haven’t heard of her until DJ Michael Ealey turned me on to her. Thanks to Internet Radio we get a chance to hear real talent. Lianne La Havas grew up in London and is of Greek and Jamaican descent. This 27 year old singer, songwriter, guitar and piano playing talent wrote her first song at the age of 11. This was the making of an amazing singer/song writer. She writes and sing with her soul, so young, beautiful and fresh. Every time I listen to her songs, I take away a new interpretation that is the essence of what true art is all about. While writing and listening to songs from her debut album, Is Your Love Big Enough in 2012 to her latest Blood in 2015 it’s hard to pick my favorite. Here are some that are definitely going on my play list, “What You Don't Do”, “Unstoppable”, “Green & Gold”, “Tokyo”, “Midnight”, “Wonderful”, “Good Goodbye”, “Ghost”, “Lost & Found”, “No Room For Doubt (ft. Willy Mason)”, “"Elusive", “Gone” and “Au Cinéma”. There are other Neo-Soul/Indie Soul artists that are staying true to their craft here are some of my favorites, Amel Larrieux, Bilal (Sayeed Oliver), Eric Roberson, India Arie, Erykah Badu, Corinne Bailey Rae, Kindred The Family Soul and Lalah Hathaway and a whole lot more. Lianne La Havas is a young underrated talent that is truly superb in her song writing and singing ability. If you have never heard of her you can listen to her on Streetwise Radio. You can also listen to Streetwise Radio iTunes, Pandora. Brought to you by Streetwise Special Delivery Inc.

LM

Sunday, August 9, 2015

Avery Sunshine


The music industry has only one type of sound now days and that is auto tune. They make horrible singers sound like they can sing. You don’t have to worry about that with Avery Sunshine. She has a silky smooth, sensual voice with no auto tunes. She hits all music points, Gospel, Blues, Soul and Jazz. She is not afraid to praise God. Her song “Blessin' Me” is the song I have to hear, to get my day started. This 40 year old songstress and pianist is so underrated, it is a shame. She has put out two albums, in 2010 self-titled Avery Sunshine and in 2014 The SunRoom both of these albums are fantastic. She masterfully weaves together the "old school" with the new. It is hard for me to pick my favorite songs from these albums but here are some, “Blessin' Me”, “Ugly Part Of Me”, “10 Sweet Afternoon”, “Like This”, “See You When I Get There”, "Stick To Your Bones", “Nothing To Something” and "Won't You Try". Avery Sunshine is truly blessed and it shows in her music. If you like good inspiring music and amazing vocals you have to listen to Avery Sunshine. You can listen to Avery Sunshine on Streetwise Radio. You can also listen to Streetwise Radio on iTunes, Pandora, Athena365, Live365 and MyGen365.

LM

Friday, July 3, 2015

Fertile Ground





I’ve never heard of Fertile Ground, but DJ Michael Ealey is playing them on Streetwise Radio. While writing this blog I discovered that, the six members of Fertile Ground are a very awesome and creative group. I like them because they have an amazing depth of music that touches on the jazzy, funky soul sound. They mix everything I love.
Fertile Ground started off as a three piece group in 1998, in Baltimore Maryland. The founder was James Collins on key boards, vocalist Navasha Daya and Drummer Marcus Asante. In 1999 the group added Ekendra Das on percussion, Freddie Dunn on trumpet and Craig D. Alston on woodwind. They resided in Atlanta, Georgia until they parted ways in the 2010 to pursue their solo projects. It is a shame because they made some great music.
While they were together they put out several albums. Their first two albums were a compilation called Perception. Seasons Change was their third album. Their last album was called Black Is. With this album they toured from 2004 through 2009 in Baltimore, Washington, D.C., LA, Paris, Tokyo and London. All of Fertile Ground’s albums, happen to combine all my favorite genres soul funk jazz and even hip hop. Fertile Ground is a mix of everything I love. I’m a fan now, if they ever get back together for a reunion tour I hope they come to the West Coast. Anywhere near Northern California, I sure would like to see them live.
Here are some songs that are going on my playlist, “Black Is", “A Blues for me”, “Take me higher”, “Yellow Daisies” “Broken Branches”, “Simple Timeless”, “You”, “Star People” and “Another Day”. There are many more but the list would be too long. So I gave you a little sample of their gift. If you’re not familiar with Fertile Ground, Streetwise Radio is play their songs. You can also listen to Streetwise Radio on iTunes, Pandora, MyGen365, Live365 and Athena365.

LM

Friday, June 19, 2015

Rico Love "Turn The Lights On"



What can I say about songwriter, rapper-singer, and producer Rico Love? I never heard of him, until DJ Michael Ealey told me he was playing him on Streetwise Radio. He’s an alright songwriter/rapper-singer, he sounds a little like Usher or Usher sounds like Rico. Is it because Usher signed Rico as his first artist, to his US Records label. Or is it because Rico wrote some songs for Usher. Rico was born in New Orleans, raised in Milwaukee and Harlem. He lives in Atlanta now. Rico’s 2015 album “Turn The Lights On” is explicit but it has some songs that I really like, “Somebody Else”, “Days Go By”, “Run From Me”, “Bad Attitude” and “The Affair”. Tune into Streetwise Radio and check out Rico Love for yourself. You can also listen to Streetwise Radio on MyGen365, Live365, iTunes and Pandora.


Tuesday, May 26, 2015

Impromp2




Jazz/Funk/Hip Hop duo Impromp2 from Los Angeles came out with their debut album in 1995 called “You're Gonna Love It”. It amazes me that I never heard of these guys. Their names are Sean E. Mack rapper and Johnny Britt trumpeter/vocalist. They complement each others style of singing. Since their debut album, they put out three more album. In 1997 “Can't Get Enough”, 2003 Impromp2 and 2008 “It Is What It Is”, all of these albums are great. They did not miss a beat. Wow! If you love soul music then you're going to love Impromp2. These guys are incredibly talented and their voices are smooth. Impromp2 sound is wonderful. You can listen to them while riding in the car or sitting at home chilling with the one you love. Since 2010, Johnny Britt has focused on a solo career and released his debut album in 2012 “Feels So Good”. I would love to see these guys in person. Some of my favorite songs from Impromp2 that are going on my play list are, “You're Gonna Love It”, "Enjoy Yourself", “Summer Nights”, “I'll Do Whatever”, “Luv 2 Ball”, “Angel”, “"Lovin' You", “Good Thang”, “Without You”. If you never heard of Impromp2, listen to them on Streetwise Radio you will become a fan. You can also listen to Streetwise Radio on MyGen365, iTunes, Live365 and Pandora.

LM

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Carolyn Malachi





Hey all you urban soul music lovers, if you have not heard of Carolyn Malachi well Streetwise Radio is playing her music. DJ Michael Ealey has stumbled across another underrated artist who is so awesome and very inspirational. She hails from Washington D.C. Her music has the characteristics of soul, jazz, classical, and rap that blends well together. What I like about Carolyn Malachi she sings from her heart and every song is so encouraging. This singer/songwriter was nominated for a Grammy for her 2013 “Gold” album. This album has some wonderful songs on it. Some of my favorites are “All Right ft. Chelsey Green, Kevin Powe Jr.”, “Fall Winter Spring Summer”, “Ready for the World”, “Nothing”, “Finally”,In my opinion Carolyn Malachi is one artist that is and always will be definitive to her own sound. She is definitely going on my play list. Check out songs from Carolyn Malachi on Streetwise Radio you will become a fan. You can also listen to Streetwise Radio on MyGen365, Live365, Athena365 and iTunes.
LM


http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=sr_hi_1?rh=n%3A163856011%2Ck%3ACarolyn+Malachi+Gold&keywords=Carolyn+Malachi+Gold&ie=UTF8&qid=1431547371&ajr=0



Sunday, April 19, 2015

DEVON HOWARD

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Straight out of Baltimore, Maryland, DEVON HOWARD is keeping it hot. As a singer, songwriter and producer he is a triple threat placing him way ahead of the game. DEVON is walking in the footsteps of some of the most recognized artists our time, all whom have had an impact on his style. Baby Face, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, El DeBarge, Usher and Ne-Yo, all triple threats in their own right. El DeBarge and Babyface was the first male singers he related to vocally. Their smooth, sensual, passionate voices were something he wanted to emulate as a singer but, with his own style. He is also influenced by Michael Jackson’s innovative style and creativity. DEVON’s style is fresh, edgy, laid back and smooth. He brings a flavor reminiscent of old school but, with a modern twist. He’s had a lifetime of practice. DEVON has been writing songs since childhood. Songwriting comes naturally to him. Inspired by his late father, who was also a songwriter, he grew up listening to his father’s collection: The Manhattans, The Stylistics, and The Commodores. DEVON got his start in the music industry performing with various groups and eventually wrote and performed with a local group who recorded their debut CD on the RCA label. . The group has appeared on many of the popular music shows including Soul Train, Apollo and BET. SWV and Wendy Williams appeared in the group’s first video and Malcolm Jamal Warner directed the second. Devon also worked with industry vets Ron Fair (Keyshia Cole) and Vincent Herbert (Lady Gaga, Tamar Braxton) on the group’s debut CD. That group later dissolved and Devon went on to record and release music in Europe and Japan. Devon has already gained the attention of some key people in the industry. One of those people is none other than Chris Robinson, one of the most sought after music video directors in the industry, who directed Devon’s first music video. The single “Other Side of the Bed” has received Urban AC radio play across the country and on Music Choice and Sirius Satellite. The video played in regular rotation on VH1 Soul and other video outlets nationwide. His new single ‘Could This Be Love’ is available on itunes, and the new CD entitled ‘Return To Love’ is slated for a fall release. DEVON HOWARD is not just a nice guy with a sexy voice. He is the winner of the Heinekin / ASCAP Initiative for Songwriting. Amidst his hectic schedule and all of his accomplishments DEVON HOWARD finds time to give back. He has been an advocate for foster children at Second Home Inc., for well over ten years. And, recently put together a compilation CD featuring national and local recording artists to raise money for his newest endeavor, opening a day shelter for
 homeless youth and young adults. He has performed for and given donations to various charitable organizations including the Red Cross and America’s Harvest. DEVON HOWARD is definitely one to keep your eye on. He is Baltimore’s best kept secret and soon the world will be introduced to this class act.

Thursday, March 12, 2015

Kristina Debarge




DEBARGE FAMILY TIES
By. Amero
Its officially spring! The flowers and trees are dropping their seeds
spreading their genetic structures ensuring the survival of life. Its beautiful
and complex how the cycle of life works. Families grow and expand and
add to the legacy of the family name. Which is exactly what the Debarge
family continues to do. We all remember the platinum and gold selling
group from the 80’s whose numerous singles kept Motown afloat during the
1980’s. Enter Kristina Debarge a wonderful rose from “the city of roses”
Pasadena, Ca. Daughter of James Debarge, Kristina Debarge is quickly
making a name for herself as a singer. As a child Kristina always wanted to
sing (you think??)but never made it known till she was about 12 years old.
Her father took her to the studio and they recorded their first single
together. A year later Kristina made her national t.v. debut on “American
Juniors”(an american idol spin-off). As the shows youngest contestant( at
13 years old) she wowed fans and made the top twenty which was a great
feat if you ask me. After American Juniors she was introduced to “Baby Face”

 and signed a deal with sodapop/ Island def jam and began working on her
debut album “Exposed” in 2009 which debuted at #23 on billboard's top
200. As if she wasn't busy enough Kristina Debarge's acting career began
in 2012 with the movie “Christmas in Compton”. Then she received the
leading role in Nick Cannons directorial debut called "School Dance" in
2014. Kristina has a single that I like that is called “Radio” which has solid
production and Kristina seems to have a grasp of how to balance making
a single while still being original. Also check out her song “Amnesia” where
Kristina Debarge talks about relationship issues! Kristina is definitely the
next in a long line of Debarges to hit the scene but where are all these
Debarges coming from?? Seriously there's probably a daycare somewhere
with about a hundred of these Lil guys and gals training for their chance
to come out. SMH.. Oh well at least they do have talent to spread around
unlike some of my siblings but i digress. Check out this lovely young lady
Kristina Debarge on The Streetwise Radio Ultra Mix 1am to 12pm, 1pm to 

4:30pm andpm to 10pm pacific time. And remember for all your
delivery needs in the San Jose, Oakland and San Francisco Bay Area 

it's Streetwise Special Delivery. PEACE.

Sunday, February 8, 2015

FOREVER CHARLIE


By. Amero

What’s up people? Did you see your shadow the other day? Well for the
people who actually care winter will be staying around for a few more
weeks. Sh** i was hoping on putting away the jackets and umbrellas.
Speaking of staying around nothing has had the staying power as the
career of Charlie “last name” Wilson. The proverbial redwood tree of music
is back with a new album named “Forever Charlie”. I'm starting to think
he may just last forever. From “you dropped the ball on me” to collabs
with his celeb “nephew” Snoop. Charlie Wilson has been relevant for
decades.The new album has 12 tracks with features from pop stars Shaggy
and Snoop Dogg, In addition to Jam & Lewis, Wilson’s “Forever Charlie”
collaborators include longtime P Music Group colleagues Gregg Pagani
and Emile Ghantous. The latter, in tandem with Steve Daly and Keith
Hetrick, comprise the P Music team “Cartoons,” which produced four tracks
on the new album. Charlie said “ i wanted to give the album an uptempo
feel like what the Gap Band did”,and he didn't disappoint the album is a
blend of love and uptempo reggae r&b collabos. Please don't think the 9
time grammy nominee is slowing down because he isn't, the voice that is
so distinctive seems to find its way onto the radio and into your ears. The
Forever Charlie” tour begins Feb. 12 so expect to see Mr. Wilson on the
road here soon. The album is great I listened to the whole thing and I’m just 
in aw of the fact that the voice from before my time is still pushing and reaching
people today. I can't imagine today's singers even around in five years. The
authentic star power of our legends of the 60’s and 70’s just haven't trickled
down yet!! Thats why its important to appreciate Charlie’s talent because
it may not happen again. Go check it out Charlie Wilson's new album out
now on the Streetwise Radio Ultra Mix, iTunes, Live365,