RBM Recording Artists Vicelounge (Tai Allen & Jonn Nubian) have recently released this great promo that serves as an appetizer before their full-length project drops in June. I’m really diggin their sound, which for me as an a listener has proved to be an exhilarating ride on some music twists and turns where we finally pull into the destination and I’m like “I know where we are now but I had never gone that route.” Usually when that happens to me in real life I am very appreciative of the journey and this here is no exception. Looking forward to the release in June.

If you spend a considerable amount of time (like I do) perusing various social networks there is a oft repeated meme when it comes to music, the ubiquitous: “I’m on the/my grind” What I love about this video from Esnavi is that she’s not talking about being on the grind from her couch, no she’s out in the world doing it!

Esnavi represents what I’ve often encouraged others to do in my writing here at GFM: Go beyond the screen and make what you do in the world of reality as important as what you do in the virtual. These worlds now are not mutually exclusive, so it is refreshing when you can see an artist on the rise embracing a sense of balance in her business. But hey, don’t take my word for it, press play and enjoy

Philadelphia (and surrounding areas), get ready to celebrate the 15th anniversary of Soul-Patrol.com. If you didn’t already know, Bob Davis of Soul-Patrol is one of the pioneers of the merging of online/offline marketing, technology, music, culture and events. The site is the definitive source of all things Black music. The convention is an extension of that vision, complete with panels, artist meet/greets, a trade show, an award show, live performances and fun for the whole family. You can order your tickets online or by calling 609-351-0154.

Soul-Patrol Convention Day Ticket – daytime session including: awards, panels, artist meet/greet, trade show and live performances ($10) Bring the kids for an experience they won’t forget.

Soul-Patrol Convention Evening Ticket – evening session including dinner/dancing, artist meet/greet, lifetime awards, memorials and live performances from 8pm – 2am ($50)

Soul-Patrol Convention Combo Ticket – day and evening events ($55).

Hit the jump for the full schedule or Soul-Patrol for the latest updates!

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One of my favorite endeavors is what I often refer to as connecting the dots. For me, it really is important to have a firm musical and historical context. Through this process I have learned two things: 1. There’s nothing new under the sun and 2. Every innovation begins within the dominant musical force of the time.

There reason that I posted this clip of Dee Dee Sharp is twofold: (more…)