Beyonce "Surprises" Us With a Visual Album

All this time, we were fooled by one of the greatest. But then again, that’s what makes her so great, right? Friday morning, at midnight, Beyoncé dropped a surprise album on ITunes and shocked the world. There was no warning, no hint and nothing that would’ve had us guessing that Queen B was even in the studio preparing to release anything.

A few months before, while on tour, Colombia Records went on record saying that Beyoncé had started recording an album but decided to scratch everything she had worked on and start fresh. The major label expressed its concern of her lack of material, but I’m starting to think that this was part of the entire marketing scheme. Since the album’s release, it seems to have been promoting itself. This is Beyoncé’s first time really digging deep into the artistic side of her music. Every song has a corresponding video to go along with it. But one has to wonder, how in the world did she have time for all this production and studio time. Beyoncé has been on tour, since God knows when, while having no new songs to perform, with the exceptions of “Grown Woman” and critically acclaimed “Bow Down”. 

All the work going into the new album seems to have slipped right under our noses. Her sound is definitely very different than what we are used to this time around. Bey is experimenting and quite frankly, we like it. Of course, no Beyoncé album is right if you don’t have her typical sassy, upbeat songs like “Blow”. But in collaboration with artists like Frank Ocean, Pharrell and Drake, the songs, lyrics, melodies and concepts on this album are very new for the Bey we know.

The self-titled album premiered as number (not surprising), and has been since the drop. Now, all that is next to do is to guess how Mrs. Carter will portray these stories on stage. There’s no doubt that she, yet again, won’t cease to surprise us. - Ashley Germain

Jhene Aiko's New Album Makes Waves

     

Attention music lovers: there’s some new underground tunes that are sure to have you sit back, close your eyes and drift off to a world far away from your own reality. Treat yourself to a trip to a musical paradise by sailing out with recording artist, Jhene Aiko. The former T.U.G. artist has come a long way from kicking it with R&B group B2K to establishing herself as an artist to look out for.
       Last Tuesday, Aiko released her highly anticipated EP titled Sail Out. Since releasing her first musical project in years, Sailing Souls, fans have been eagerly waiting to hear some fresh sounds from the singer, myself included. Since then, many labels have been dying to sign the brand new face on the music scene, but in the end, Def Jam won the prize. Aiko’s decision was found to be the right one. Upon signing, she has been on tour with the likes of two powerhouse names, multi-platinum Hip Hop artists Nas and Drake. We can assume that because of all the performances there were to tend to, studio time just wasn't a priority. However, the wait has finally come to an end with not just one, but two presents (YAAY!).
       Aiko has called the EP "a bridge between Sailing Souls and her first solo album Souled Out". The album is set for release in early January of 2014, so it looks like Aiko’s fans should be sitting tight until the next album. I know that I (a fan since the T.U.G. days) am more than satisfied and cannot wait to hear more. If you know Aiko, then you know her style: smooth, sultry and easy on the ears. Her voice and melodic rhythm are captivating and her lyrics cut deep into the soul. She has said that the album will be a little different than what we’re used to, but hey, I’m up for the challenge. Any artist that can step out of their comfort zone musically and succeed at it is a go in my book.
       If you’re looking for something new for your iPod, definitely give Jhene Aiko a listen. Sail Out  is only six dollars on iTunes and is in this week’s top 10 new album releases. Collaborations on the EP include Kendrick Lamar, Childish Gambino, and Ab-Soul. Aiko touches on issues ranging from deep conversations about her personal life to lighter expression about her love of hibiscus and just being a bum for the day with your significant other. This is definitely an EP that will be on repeat for me until further notice.

- Ashley Germain

Jhene Aiko's video "Bed Peace" from Sail Out

'13 Spring Concert!

So there you have it, the 2013 Haraya Music Fest!  Hopefully you guys came out and enjoyed the show! With the sweet sounds of Jhene Aiko, her calm and smooth band playing in her background as she sang songs like “Higher” and “What a Life,” Jhene had the crowd infatuated.  She did a dedication to Tupac Shakur cover of “Keep Your Head Up,” in her own Jhene-like style.  With Ab-Soul, came the TDE Black Hippies movement to the stage.  Peter Rosenberg came on stage to get the energy hype, with a few smart comments made towards Rick Ross “Dying over Reeboks.”  Pusha T lit the stage with a couple songs from Wrath of Caine, as well as his famous earlier hits.  Pusha also performed “I Don’t Like,” and “New God Flow,” from Cruel Summer, and closed the show with “Blocka.”  Trinidad James did have his gold on, the rapper actually jumped off the stage to sing with the audience while performing a couple of his songs from off of his album titled Don’t Be S.A.F.E. 

If you’re a movie person like me, then you know that The Great Gatsby is coming out next month.  I might have mention this many times, mainly because I’ve been excited for the release of the soundtrack, along with the score done by Jay Z himself.  The movie alone looks like its going to be big, and the music that has recently been surfacing, is amazing.  The full song of “Back to Black,” covered by André 3000 and Beyoncé, has come out and it's seductive with it's jazzy cover.  Lana Del Rey’s “Young and Beautiful,” mirrors the singers style of dark, sad-core indie songs, and I keep the song on repeat.  While Emeli Sandé and the Bryan Ferry Orchestra did a smooth jazz cover to Beyoncé’s Crazy in Love; the album does nothing more but impress. 

Kanye’s new album is reportedly completed and is rumored to be named Rich Black American.  According to Paul Rosenberg, everyone who listened to Ye’s album at the label said they loved it, but it was dark.  I can only imagine something deep and creative from Kanye, and I’m excited to see what ‘dark’ means in the line up for his work. Don’t forget to check out Kanye perform some of his new music on SNL on May 18^th!

What’s on my replay?

Cole Summer – J. Cole

Over the Love – Florence and the Machine

Young and Beautiful – Lana Del Rey

Back to Black – Beyoncé & André 3000

I Can’t Win – Chris Brown

- Alyssa Jones 

New Albums Coming Your Way

First and foremost, Haraya’s Spring Concert is this Friday and the headliners are announced!  Pusha T and Ab-Soul will be there, so you must go out and get your tickets at Campus Concierge as soon as possible! Also, I know you’ve heard a couple names about who the surprise guest artist could be, but be sure to keep stopping by Haraya’s homepage for conformations later this week!  Trust me, this year's concert is sure not to disappoint. 

This weekend, Wiz Khalifa and Curren$y released a collaborative EP called Lie in Concert.  The two have such style and swag that sounds so good together, almost effortlessly.  The EP is available on iTunes and is a mixture of Curren$y Spitta’s smooth jazz-like beats and Wiz' classic style to give some great tracks.  The EP was released on the infamous 4/20, so you can expect the rappers ode to the day.  A definite for when you're looking for something chill to vibe to. 

"The Great Gatsby" will be out next month and it's sure to be a huge success, with names like Jay Z to do the score for the film, you can expect something fresh and unusual.  This weekend, a snippet from the movie was released and the track sounds pretty dope, "$100 Bill,” is one of those timeless cocky tracks where Jay is going to prove to you just how much money he really has on the track, and you can’t help but respect it.  I’m pretty excited for the movie and more music to come from this track alone. 

As the weeks wind down to a close, and as summer is right around the corner, I thought I'd note a few predictions for this summer in music.  Drake is sure to drop some heat and blaze up the summer with some anthems that will have you happy for life, friends, and parties.  Yeezy is expected to bring a new album which is sure to have you excited, especially for his collaborations with Daft Punk.  I hope to see more underground rappers get light, like Ab-Soul and Troy Avenue, and most importantly just good music all summer long.

Whats on my Replay?

Live In Concert – Wiz Khalifa & Curren$y

Get Lucky – Daft Punk, Pharell & Nile Rodgers

Money Team- Mac Miller ft Ab-Soul, Smoke Dza & Da$h

Girls Love Beyonce- Drake

No New Friends – Drake ft. Lil Wayne & Rick Ross

- Alyssa Jones

Breezy x Lil' Wayne x Ray J

On my quest to bring you guys new music every week, this week I have come to the same issue I face almost every week; trying to figure out when the classic love song died.  It’s almost like a sweet melody can’t come without either degrading a female or talking about the craziest things going on in the bedroom.  Romance is dying in the music world people.  We need new artists to clean up R&B and help us believe in love again.  That being said, lets talk about Chris Brown shall we?  Chris has been all over the news last week talking about what to expect from his new album.  In an interview with Ryan Seacrest on Z100 he said to expect some music like his first album, he wants to experiment less and just make good music that his fans want to hear.  Then a leak of his album came out titled “Nobody’s Perfect” and so started the annoying techno music.  Will this phase ever die?  Or at least lessen?  I don’t know about you guys but the mix of an R&B song with a loud house beat isn’t always what I want to hear when I’m awaiting a new album.  Besides that crazy track, Chris released his first single for “X” last Monday titled ‘Fine China’.  I liked this track for a few reasons, the beat has this old school vibe and the lyrics are really sweet, well done Chris!  The link is below. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGs1gODLiSQ

Lil Wayne’s “I am Not a Human Being II” is at number 2 on the charts.  Though this may seem like something to celebrate, the numbers don’t add up to his past albums which are used to hitting number 1 on the charts, so this is kind of a tank for Weezy.  While listening to it, and you have to know that I used to be a big Wayne fan back in middle school, its just as disappointing as almost all of Weezy’s recent projects.  The album has some bangers but nothing that compares to his metaphorical genius from earlier years.  Wayne is great on a feature but as time goes on, I’m starting to be thankful for his retirement, 

Now usually I don’t like to give light to foolishness, but I can’t help it this week with Ray J’s cry for attention in the release of “I Hit It First”.  Not only is it an embarrassment for him and the producers of that song, but it’s a careless track that begs for attention from the mother to be.  And though we all know how Kim K and the Kardashian fam came to fame, it’s a little late to claim you “Hit it first” Ray.  While talking about the track with a couple of my friends they said they found it to be catchy.  Catchy or not, its undeniably un-classy and a bust for Ray J.  I think people like to get on Kanye’s bad side, and I’m looking forward to a response form Ye, if he would dare give this petty situation light that is. 

What’s on my Replay?

Bad (Solo Version) – Tiara Thomas

Fine China – Chris Brown

Girls – Kid Cudi ft. Too $hort

New Releases

Wolf – Tyler, The Creator

Jay-Z x Kid Cudi x Cassie x Kanye

This past week in music brought us plenty of new videos, singles, album leaks and presidential controversy.  Lets get started with Jay Z and Bey’s trip to Cuba.  While the couple was celebrating their 5 year wedding anniversary, the world was buzzing, especially about Jay’s relationship with President Obama.  It started a political craze that’s biggest question was, who issued the couple clearance to travel to Cuba?  Amidst the drama, Jay released a response to the public in “Open Letter,” which no doubt stirred up more controversy with his line “boy from the hood but got white house clearance”. Now this song in its entirely is Kanye cocky, because in fact Jay got clearance for his trip from the Treasury department, but Jay makes some really good points check out the song below.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XyUxCQt9T0E

Take a trip with Cudi.  If you’re into trippy beats, space like sounds and visual lyrics Indicud is definitely for you.  Kid Cudi’s much anticipated album out on the 23^rd of this month was actually leaked this past week and I couldn’t resist.  Indicud is a movie like production, its theatrical and well thought-out, its what Hip Hop has been needing.  I listened to the album in full with a good friend of mine who said ‘Cudi is like the Jimi Hendrix of rap, with his detailed beats and story like plot to his albums.’  I couldn’t agree more, I will be coping this album when it drops and so should you! 

Bad Boy’s baby, Cassie released her mix ape this past week titled Rockabyebaby.  Now, not that I was expecting much, but the only good on this mixtape were the features and the beats I’m sorry to say.  Cassie is doing the same ‘talking on tracks’ as she did from her “Me & You” days. Though the mixtape has some cool sounds and some cool tracks like ‘Paradise’ and ‘Numb’, overall I think it’s a miss. 

Kanye plus Daft Punk equals music of the future?  Well its music of the near future at least.  They have worked together for two tracks on Kanye’s new album, (yes, really Kanye is going to release a new album!) and the French electronic dance duo that are Daft Punk say that Ye’ raps over a beat of “live and programmed drums”.  I’m excited, if you know me, you know Yeezy is one of my favorites. 

New Videos

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYZ4RScj_sI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wpiV9Hu1fN0

http://www.vevo.com/watch/j-cole/power-trip-lyric/USQX91300328?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=watch&utm_campaign=wp_j_cole_power_trip_lyric

What’s on My Replay?

Numbers on Boards – Pusha T
Boss ***** & Fast Cars – Red Café ft Pusha T & Fabolous
Ex Again – Eric Bellinger ft Jhene Aiko
How Many Drinks (remix) – Miguel ft. Kendrick Lamar
1997 – Corner Boy P ft. Curren$y
Brothers – Kid Cudi ft. King Chip & A$AP Rocky
Mad Solar – Kid Cudi
Burn Baby Burn – Kid Cudi

- Alyssa Jones

Majestic Casual x Beyonce x Lil' Wayne

This week I did some research into some different genres of music and I have to say I’m pretty excited about what I found.  If you are familiar with XXYYXX, the 17-year-old smash producer who birthed the trippy tracks About You, XXYYXX and Alone, then Majestic Casual may be the next big thing for you to listen to.  Majestic Casual urges you to ‘experience music in a new way,’ done by dozens of producers with the chill like remixes to familiar songs from Biggie’s "Dead Wrong" to Destiny’s Child "Say My Name" and almost everything in-between. With a constant stream of videos always coming in, Majestic Casual is definitely one to watch, check out the Boyz II Men remix of "Can You Stand The Rain" and one of their popular tracks "Wild Child" below. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rAj5TKIdDxU

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cNvjKkXFBvU

So, is it just me, or is Bey’s new Bow Down just not cutting it?  King Bey’s release of her first single off her upcoming album coming out later this year is a bit, well much.  I can’t say that I can get used to Bey’s cursing on a track, but the songs not all bad and you can expect to hear it all over the place simply because its done by Bey.  There is also rumored to be an upcoming remix featuring artists from the dirty south, stay tuned.  Songs like this have fans questioning, is change really good?  I hope we can still expect some of the sweet songbird side of Beyonce in her upcoming album.  Here is the video promo for Bow Down/I Been On. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-S31aR9a5Fc

After Lil Wayne’s severe seizures and ICU scare, Wayne is back!  He released a video thanking fans for their continued support, here’s a link to the video.  Wayne’s release for what is reportedly his final album is due in two days, stay on the lookout for “I Am Not A Human Being 2”. 

http://c.gigcount.com/wildfire/IMP/CXNID=2000002.11NXC/bT*xJmx*PTEzNjQwNTc5ODM5MDgmcHQ9MTM2NDA1Nzk4NTQ4MiZwPSZkPSZnPTImbz**YjlhOWI2YWUwNGQ*MzczYjM5MjRiZDhl/OWZiZTI4ZiZvZj*w.gif

http://cdnapi.kaltura.com/index.php/kwidget/wid/1_adys6fus/uiconf_id/6740162 

http://cdnapi.kaltura.com/index.php/kwidget/wid/1_adys6fus/uiconf_id/6740162

What’s On My Replay?

Yay Yay – Schoolboy Q

Pour It Up – Rihanna Ft. Yung Jeezy, Juicy J, Rick Ross & T.I.

BSail – Kendrick Lamar

20/20 Experience – Justin Timberlake

B**** Don’t Kill My Vibe Remix – Kendrick ft. Jay Z

- Alyssa Jones

Reggae x Jhene Aiko x Jay-Z x Drake

It’s the middle of March, and I have summer fever.  I don’t know about you guys, but I couldn’t be more ready for the summertime.  Now, for those of you who don’t know I am an islander to the core, born and raised on the tiny Island of Bermuda; and that means I grew up on Dancehall, Reggae and Soca and there is no better time for us islanders to prepare for summer than now when all the new summertime favorites start to be released.  This week I daydream of myself on the beach nonstop while listening to Machel Montano.  For those of you who’d like to daydream just as I do, I’d encourage you to listen to “The Fog”, “Drinkin’ Rum” and “She Ready” on repeat!  

Sweet Jhene Aiko has released another careless, feel good song just when we needed one.  Jhene is known for her chill out music vibe, whimsical beats and dope lyrics, she’s perfect for a feature and even better when her beautiful eerie voice that can dance all over a track.  Her new video for “Burning Man” is a beach themed summer night track that will have you pressing the replay button for sure!  Check out the video below. 

Besides the Kanye drama, sigh, with JT and Jay-Z’s “Suit and Tie”, I’m excited for the two to go on tour together!  Even if Yeezy doesn’t really like the song, the two would be something crazy on tour and presale tickets were recently released, so if you guys want to see the magic I would suggest grabbing your tickets ASAP!

http://www.ticketmaster.com/JAY-Z-and-Justin-Timberlake-tickets/artist/1837448

We underestimated him greatly.  Yes!  Drake, thank you for “5AM In Toronto”.  This is the Drake I’ve been missing, telling the world we need him and proving why he is such a great lyricist.  I was a Drake fan early, and watching him progress can make one crazy sometimes.  Yes, Drake always produces hits and gives us just what we need when Hip Hop is having a drought, but there’s nothing like a declaration of ‘you need me’.  From his mellow and meaningful hits of So Far Gone to his first album Thank Me Later and the powerful sophomore album, Take Care Drake hits the mark every time.  The uncertainty comes from his character, it’s like Drake is lost in the Hollywood lights with a reputation that begs him to man up.  I’m rooting for Drake though; I believe that he could be the best to do it in our generation simply for always knowing what to do.  If Drake does things on his own time and keeps up with the unexpected collaborations, catchy singles and deep lyrics he could be well respected in the Hip Hop community.  I’m looking forward to the release of his upcoming album Nothing Was The Same. 

   

What’s On My Replay?

5AM In Toronto – Drake

Immortals- Kid Cudi

Burning Man- Jhene Aiko

Kingin – Curren$y

Eyes Like Sky – Frank Ocean

- Alyssa Jones

J. Cole Drake x Curren$y

Spring Break is almost here, and I know you’re just as excited as I am to have a break already.  So what should you listen to while your sitting on a beach, travelling home or just running around campus?  J. Cole’s Truly Yours is a definite must. While I restlessly wait for Cole to drop his second album, he gave us a little taste of what to expect.  The EP is a great display of Cole’s talent.  Its clear we are waiting for something special. ‘Can I Holla At Ya’ has this crazy beat with a Spanish guitar lacing the track while ‘Rise Above’ has Cole’s crafted story like flow that keeps it on my replay.  Then of course was the release of ‘Power Trip’ featuring Miguel, which has everyone talking.  I just can’t wait for the release of Born Sinner. 

Drake’s new single ‘Started From the Bottom’ is the type of track that you should expect to hear everywhere.  The beat is more than addictive and the flow is just right, Drake is a master at this.  But, I can’t say the lyrics do anything for me, it’s the kind of song that you keep playing, but you know Drake can do better.  While we’re on the subject of Young Money, Nicki Minaj and French Montana finally released their highly promoted ‘Freaks’ track.  This high energy track will defiantly be around for the summer, it has the kind of beat that makes you just want to dance. 

Since last week was all about the Grammy’s I didn’t mention Curren$y’s New Jet City mixtape, but I just can’t get enough of it so I knew I had to share.  Curren$y may be one of the most consistent rappers in the game.  Putting out mixtape after mixtape of his detailed beats and raspy voice floating on his tracks, New Jet City delivers just as his others do.  Some of my favorites on the tape are ‘Coolie in the Cut’, ‘Mary’, ‘Choosin’ and ‘Sixteen Switches’. 

What’s On My Replay?

Freaks – Nicki Minaj ft French Montana

You Don’t Even Know It – Rocko ft. Future & Rick Ross

‘Truly Yours’ – J.Cole

Mirrors – Justin Timberlake

Started From The Bottom- Drake

Grammys

It’s the week after the Grammys!  So you know its going to be full of the stories, the disagreements and Chris Brown’s face when he lost to Frank Ocean in the Best Urban Contemporary Album.  So here’s the run down.  The first award went to the timeless songstress Adele for Best Pop Song for ‘Set Fire to the Rain’.  Such a well deserved win for such a humble artist.  A great performance of the night was the Wiz-Miguel combo for ‘Let my Love Adorn You Remix’.  Miguel sounded so sweet as he bellowed out on the Grammy stage and gained much respect after his win for Best R&B Song for ‘Adorn’.  Other winners include Beyonce for ‘Love On Top’, Jay-Z & Yeezy taking home two for ‘N****s in Paris’ and one for ‘No Church in the Wild, Rihanna for the Best Short Form Music Video with ‘We Found Love’, Best Rap Album for Drake’s ‘Take Care’- sorry 2 Chaniz and then of course my favorite win of the night Frank Oceans win for ‘channel ORANGE’. 

Perhaps the most talked about stars where Chris & Rih while being cuddled up in the front row clearly comfortable with putting their love on display.  Rih had two outstanding performances and three amazing outfits!  A heartfelt rendition of ‘Stay’ and then later turned it up on a show stopping tribute to Bob Marley joined by Ziggy and Damian Marley, Sting and Bruno Mars, which was probably my favorite performance of the night.  Another great duo for the Grammy stage was JT and Jay-Z “get out ya seat Hov!” it was an upbeat high energy performance that set the tone for Justin’s album The 20/20 Experience dropping March 19^th.  Those were just a few of my favorite moments!

If you know anything about me you know that Rihanna is my ultimate girl crush and besides killing the Grammy’s last night in her red dress, Rih put out her video for ‘Stay’ (finally!) Check it out below.

Rihanna "Stay"

Bey is unstoppable! After shutting down the lights during the Super Bowl her tickets for ‘The Mrs. Carter Show’ kicks off in April so be quick to get your tickets!

What’s on my replay?

Same B**** - A%SP Rocky ft. Trey Songz

New Jet City Mixtape – Curren$y 

- Alyssa Jones

Wale x Timberlake x Superbowl

Hey friends, and welcome back to school life!  I hope your Christmas' and New Years were filled with good music like mine was!  I couldn't get enough of Wale's Folarin this Christmas.  It was a great mix of the different sides of Wale as a rapper, without going too far off track of who he is.  I always love the way Wale can tell a story and tap into his emotional side without being too Drake.  My favorite's off the mix tape include Bad featuring Tiara Thomas,Cool Off featuring Jhene Aiko and Money Changes featuring Chrisette Michelle.  

Welcome back Justin!  I have always been a big Justin Timberlake fan from his first solo album Justified to the full feature that is Futuresex Lovesongs.  While the JT Jay Z calbo had a few people saying it had to grow on them, I'm feeling the soul / pop vibe of the song.  Jay kills it with a all too swaggy verse while JT keeps his classic flirty signature sound.  Have a listen to the new single below.  

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KReoTOZK9W8

Next sunday is Superbowl sunday and our beautiful Beyonce will be the half-time star.  While we all can't wait to see how Beyonce will hypnotize us next, more good news comes with her hooking back up with Kelly and Michelle for a Destiny's Child new CD.  The girls sound better than ever on their two tracks so far entitled, You and Me andNuclear.  Keep a look out for Destiny's Child Love Songs.  

- Alyssa Jones

Artists on The Rise: Ashley Germain

As the weeks of school are winding down, and the stress is growing its good to know that there are hard new mix-tapes and albums to help us pull through.  Though they came out last week, and oh how I missed writing to you guys over the Thanksgiving break, these two artists are just too good to skip over.  Yes yes, I’m talking about Fab and French Montana!  Fabolous’ The Soul Tape 2 overall was a dope piece by our New York native rapper. Features from J. Cole, Wale, Trey Songz and Joe Budden help the mixtape bang, my favorites are “Louis Vuitton”, “Beauty” and “Diced Pineapples”.  French Montana’s Mac & Cheese 3 got a few mixed views from some STJ students, some saying it banged from beginning to end, others saying they can only handle French on a feature. Personally, I thought it went pretty hard, especially with his long list of features from artist like Ross to Mac Miller, the mixtape was definitely diverse.  Even though I think Mac & Cheese 2 was a better mix, you have to give it to French for pulling out a great piece of work after months of delays. 

All semester long I’ve brought to you the talent of our favorite mainstream and underground artist, but never a local STJ Student; until now.  Ashley Germain is the beautifully talented singer songwriter of the Class of 2015, with a voice that chills.  The first time I heard Ashley sing was a Friday evening in Century Hall a few of weeks ago while a couple of friends and I were all in a heated conversation about the music industry.  When we all calmed down a bit we asked Ashley to sing us a song that she wrote, and when she did her voice silenced the whole room.  Her soulful full-bodied voice could hit all ranges, she went from hitting the highest of high notes to the sweet low notes of a painful love song.  Ashley is a force to be reckoned with.  Her moving voice is truly one of a kind, and her humble spirit will make you love her instantly.  While talking to her about music you can see its her passion, she loves to perform anything heartfelt by artists like Adele, Christina Aguilera or Amy Winehouse.  When I asked her what her biggest career aspiration was she replied, “I just want a lot of people to appreciate my music, if anything. I also want to win one Grammy Award, just one.  Not to say that’s where my success ends, but that’s one of my goals right now.”  Well I think its achievable for her and so many more artists here, I believe the talent at St. John’s has no limits. 

Ashley is currently working on her first major project, which will be available in December, keep a look out on her Youtube channel http://www.youtube.com/user/BasHlEYAsHley?feature=watch or SoundCloud.  Below is her recent cover of Alicia Keys’ “Brand New Me”. 

Recent Releases
Alicia Keys – Girl On Fire
Tyga – 187
The Soul Tape 2 – Fabolous
Mac & Cheese 3 – French Montana

What’s on my Replay
Lay Up – Meek Mill ft Jay Z, Rick Ross, Trey Songz
Absolute Assassin – Ab Soul
AK47- The Dream
W.T.F.I.M.L. – Chris Brown

Rihanna x Wale

Today I am Unapologetic for having Rih’s new album on replay all day.  Rihanna’s seventh studio album titled Unapologetic came out today and it seems to be what everyone is talking about.  I think it’s a strong album for her, especially because its so different than her past albums.  Its got this nasty swag to it, like she’s living in her prime and could care less what critics say about her.  From the upbeat club bound “Phresh Off the Runway” that will end up on the radio for sure, to nice collaborations with Future for one of my favorites “Loveeeee Song” Rihanna proves again why she’s on-top.  One of the best things about Rih is her ability to change, she’s a chameleon with her style keeping her Navy on their toes with what she’s will come out with next. 

Anytime I’m asked who is your favorite rapper, its like one of those questions where you ask, “right now? Or of all time?”.  Well I’m always torn, just excited really, for what is new to come out.  Wale is definitely one of my favorites I always can rely on.  He’s poetic and hip hop, and though a lot of people feel like he may have changed or even sold out, I disagree.  Wale has a story-like flow and can offer the best of both worlds, with his new mixtape coming out I hope he can go back to his days of More About Nothing flow.  The mixtape is called “Folarin”, so keep an eye out for that. 

This past weekend I took a trip to the Village to get some culture.  The beautiful thing about New York is the music that you get from all around you.  A couple stops into my ride on the F train a Mexican Marachi band came on my car and played a couple songs.  It reminded me that in a city like this there is a pulse of music and culture everywhere, even in the most unexpected places. 

French Montana’s Mac and Cheese 3 is supposed to drop tonight (Monday, Nov 19)!  After his numerous delays I’m ready to hear what French has been working on.  Also keep a look out for Fabolous’ The Soul Tape 2 comes out in two days!

I hope you all enjoy your thanksgiving and black Friday steals!

What’s on my repaly

Unapologetic Deluxe  – Rihanna

Diamonds Remix – Rihanna ft. Kanye West

Twenty Eight – The Weeknd

- Alyssa Jones

Ne-Yo x Cassidy x J. Cole x Rihanna

It looks like winter is just about here people!  And what’s better than some good R&B music?  Ne-Yo’s release of R.E.D. was a great album especially for the season.  R.E.D. is a beautiful smooth piece Ne-Yo created; he has some of his classical style and also some upbeat dance tracks that give off a pop vibe.  While he was on Power 105.1’s The Breakfast Club he said that his album was just good music, whether it’s R&B or pop; point, blank, period.  Now I’m not a big fan of his dance tracks but they are doing well on the charts. I think R.E.D. is a great piece and I’ll be listening to this one for a while. 

Cassidy and Meek Mill are all over social sites with Cassidy’s commenting on battling Meek. Allegedly, Meek said he was open to battling either Murda Mook or Cassidy for $100K. A few tweets later Meek claimed he meant for the rappers to battle it out themselves and then subsequently pronounced Mook to be King.  Cassidy then called into Philly’s Hot 107.9 to say he was down to battle Meek and even complimented him; you can check out the video below.  This would be a great battle, with Meek’s mean flow and come up on freestyles he could bring something different and hard.  Cassidy, however is known for this with a talent like no other. I’d have to say Cassidy would take this one in my opinion, but I am looking forward to finding out if they really will go through with it. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Umg2NpoJViE       

J. Cole’s sophomore album finally has a date of January 28, 2013. I’m excited to hear what other narrative, poetic stories Cole will hit us with next. Though lately, I’ve had some interesting conversations about J. Cole and his signing to Jay Z’s label, Roc Nation.  Some people feel like his talent was muffled under Jay Z’s label, that in order to make it big under his label and obtain that top spot is to be another Kanye West.  I can’t agree; I feel like Cole is one of those intelligent rappers who is dedicated to his craft, and with a mentor like Jay he knows he has to step up to the plate which I think Born Sitter will. 

This Afternoon Rihanna had a listening party for her album coming out November 19^th, Unapologetic. The cost to get in?  It’s free, with any donation of practical goods to help those affected by Sandy’s rage.  The launch was held at Jay Z’s 40/40 club and although I was all too upset I wasn’t able to go, I heard it was a lot of fun and some friends of mine even got to meet her.  The beautiful songstress promised to donate $100,000 to the Food Bank of New York City to aid those who were affected by Hurricane Sandy and also 1,000 sleeping bags.  As sweet as she is spicy, Rihanna proved the charity and love that we all need to adapt especially in a time like this.  Ri Ri also released her anticipated video for her single Diamonds, below is the link. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lWA2pjMjpBs&list=UU2xskkQVFEpLcGFnNSLQY0A&index=1&feature=plcp

What’s on my Replay

Outstanding - Talib Kweli

B**** Don’t Kill My Vibe (Remix) – Kendrick Lamar Ft. Lady Gaga (The original version was supposed to be on Kendrick's good kid, m.A.A.d city) 

Till Dawn (Here Comes the Sun)- The Weeknd

For the Love-Fabolous

Hell & Back- Kid Ink Ft. Ned Cameron

Beastin’ - Chase N. Cashe ft. A$AP Rocky

R.E.D Album – Ne-Yo

Big Boi feat. ASAP Rocky & Phantogram

- Alyssa Jones

Meek Mill x Curren$y

This week the talk around St. John’s, other than the week off classes due to Sandy, is none other than Dreams and Nightmares by Meek Mill.  The album dropped this past weekend and the reviews have been mixed.  From the moment I first heard Meek I was a fan, I felt like he was going to come and change up the game, give us something we could ride to, bounce to or just hang around and chill to, but this album was not my favorite.  From the start, it seemed like almost every other song Meek does and as it progressed, with the exception of some tracks, it sounded the same throughout.  Meek channels anger, pain and his struggles that hit with a force when you listen. Tracks like “Burn” and “Believe It” gave off similar flows and eventually one can tire out before the album has played in its entirety.  Though with a few exceptions like “Traumatized” where you could feel Meek’s story and flow with him, I wasn't the biggest fan of his premier album.  

Meek is in the family of plenty of rappers who came before his time, and got big from the underground rap scene and off mixtapes such as Dreamchasers one and two. Facing two big roads to choose from, continuing to produce the music that the fans they already love to bump to or choosing to go more “mainstream” and produce more pop songs.  Each definitely has their own disadvantages, choosing the fan route could mean closing yourself off from getting a bigger fan base and choosing “mainstream” could push away your already avid listeners.  Take Wale for example, for his first album Attention Deficit he decided to go pop and those album sales are history.  But you have to give Meek some credit for this album, he stayed true to his voice and played to his strengths.  I look forward to his future works and hope he changes it up a bit. 

One of my favorite rappers Curren$y dropped a new mixtape titled Priest Andretti.  Curren$y has a flow that’s so unique, very chill vibe and for his first mixtape after his summer album The Stoned Immaculate I thought it was very well done.  Tracks that I can’t stop listening to are without a doubt “Feelin’ Like”, “Amsterdam (Freestyle)” and “Motion” which features Corner Boy P. 

Keep a look out for The Weeknd’s Trilogy LP coming soon!

What’s on my Replay

Priest Andretti – Curren$y

The Jig Is Up – Kendrick Lamar ft J. Cole & Canei Finch

Chum – Earl Sweatshirt

- Alyssa Jones

Fool's Gold x Lana Del Rey

This past weekend I was lucky enough to run along side Philly’s come up rapper Grande Marshall.  Grande has just recently signed with Fool’s Gold inc, who threw a party for their new artists signed as well as for their five year anniversary.  So off I was to Williamsburg, Brooklyn to party the night away with performances by Troy Ave, Flosstradamus, Flatbush Zombies, A Trak, Donnis, Nick Catchdubs World’s Fair and Ghostface Killah.  The best part? VIP access! The Music Hall of Williamsburg was full of fans who were lucky enough to actually get in to this free concert, the line was so crazy outside the police had to come clear the block twice, so you can imagine how excited everyone was just to be there listening to live great music.  With free give-aways, water spraying on the audience and the artist crowd surfing while performing, the excitement in the building was crazy!  For those of you who don’t know what Fool’s Gold is, it is a Brooklyn based record label founded in 2007.  Fool’s Gold brings together the worlds of hip-hop and electronic music and is growing quickly!

If your looking for more free concerts like this, check out myfreeconcert.com. 

I’m always on the look-out for different kinds of music from artists that push the limits and that without a doubt is Lana Del Rey.  Lana’s a singer songwriter from New York, with a indie-pop, alternative and sadcore style, though you may have most recently seen her singing in H&M’s newest commercials.  Her second studio album Born to Die featured great songs like “Blue Jeans” , where she talks about her love for a man whose chasing his dreams while her dream is him, and “National Anthem” where she created a 60’s style video featuring A$AP Rocky as the President.  Her style is, what I would call, a creepy mix of dark twisted music but songs you won’t want to stop listening to.  She’s dropping a edition of Born to Die titled Born to Die The Paradise Edition on November 13^thfeaturing her new track Ride.  The video is a 10 minute mini movie of a girl who finds love in all the strangers she meets. You should have an open mind while watching it; below is the video!

Queen Bey will be performing for the Superbowl in February! I’ve had the privilege of seeing Beyonce perform before and it was no short of amazing.  It is finally time for a timeless artist of our generation to perform at the halftime event and I can’t wait!

What’s on my replay
Ride - Lana Del Rey
Enemy – The Weeknd
Guap – Big Sean

- Alyssa Jones