Matt P's Music Blog

Mariah Carey - Heat (E=MC² Bonus Track)

2008-04-10T16:42:00.001-04:00

Here's the Will.I.Am-produced "Heat", a bonus track from Mariah's E=MC² album. I think there's valid reason it was left off, but it's definitely kind of fun to listen to. Check it out!

Mariah Carey - E=MC²

2008-04-08T14:58:00.003-04:00

Wow! This CD is OUTSTANDING. I have to say it definitely ranks up there with Butterfly and The Emancipation of Mimi for me. Mariah really wasn't joking when she said that the album is full of singles. "Bye Bye", "Migrate", "Cruise Control", "I Stay in Love", "That Chick" AND "Love You Long Time" ALL sound like hits to me. If "Touch My Body" went #1, I'm pretty sure she's not going to have a problem beating The Beatles' #1's record with this one.

One of my current favorites is "Cruise Control", where Mariah speed-sings over a funkier "Shake It Off"-esque JD beat. The song features Damian Marley AND Mariah singing in a jamaican accent for the second verse -- it's AMAZING. I can't stop listening to it. That and "Last Kiss" are the JD contributions that really work for me on this record. Elsewhere, Mariah's personal lyrics (much absent from 2005's The Emancipation of Mimi) reappear on the Young Jeezy-assisted "Side Effects." The song details Mariah's past marriage to record exec Tommy Mottola. She admits to still being affected by his controlling ways, and the dark, "Cry Me a River"-esque production from Scott Storch shows Mariah experimenting with a harder hip-hop sound than her previous records.

"I Stay in Love" and "Bye Bye" are also standouts, and while the "We Belong Together" comparisons inevitable, I believe these two will be monstrous hits in their own right. "I'll Be Loving You Long Time" is this album's "Your Girl", but succeeds more with the singable melody and Kanye West-esque production from DJ Toomp. "I'm That Chick" is a bright, classic Mariah track that's with smooth, disco flourishes. It brilliantly samples Michael Jackson's "Off the Wall" in the bridge, and the song is one of the most melodically enticing on the whole album.

A slight problem with the album comes from the JD's production, which brought Mariah back to the forefront on Emancipation, but here "Thanx 4 Nothin'" and "Love Story" sound thinly-produced filler next to the work from Mariah's other collaborators. Another issue I have is with Swizz Beatz's "O.O.C." While the song is catchy enough--Swizz Beatz gave Beyoncé "Get Me Bodied" and would've rather heard Mariah wailing over a beat like that than the watery "O.O.C."

And anyone who's a fan of Mariah's earlier, more soul-oriented work needs to check out "I Wish You Well." A full-fledged gospel song proves Mariah Carey's voice is still incredibly strong, and more emotional than ever. The lyrics are wonderful and James Poyser's musicianship is unparalleled...it's a great way to end the album.

Enjoy!

Mariah Carey - E=MC² Cover

2008-03-19T01:58:00.001-04:00

I think it's cool! A little too similar to Mimi but still good! Thoughts?

Mariah Carey - SNL Performances

2008-03-19T01:49:00.003-04:00

Touch My Body

Migrate

Rihanna - Take A Bow

2008-03-15T15:53:00.003-04:00

Rihanna is re-releasing her album Good Girl, Gone Bad soon and "Take a Bow" is the new single. The song is produced by Stargate and written by Ne-Yo, and has a similar sound to Beyonce's "If" and Usher's "I Can't Win" from his upcoming album Here I Stand. The song is nice enough, but lyrically I think it's a little too similar to Leona's song "Take a Bow" but there are some lines in this song I really like. My overall feeling is the song is pleasant enough, but she should've released "Cry" or "Breaking Dishes" if she wanted a real hit. Take a listen!

Ne-Yo - Closer

2008-03-15T15:37:00.002-04:00

Ne-Yo has released a new single supposedly from a new album. I swear he JUST released Because of You and I thought he was re-releasing it, but I'm pretty happy he just went back to the drawing board because his sophomore album was QUITE the slump. But as of this song, I like it alot! It kinda has a dance-y 4/4 beat ala "Don't Stop the Music" but it's still very much his style. The only issue I have with this song is that even when he releases an uptempo song, it just sounds like a ballad somehow. I think it's just his writing style but, in any case, it's very good. Enjoy!

Danity Kane - Welcome To The Dollhouse

2008-03-15T15:20:00.002-04:00

Here's a preview of the upcoming Danity Kane album Welcome To The Dollhouse. The album overall is a little harder to swallow than their self-titled debut, but once you get into it, it's addictive. At first, I really wasn't into it, but as the more I listen to it, the more I love it. I think the fact that they're mixing more R&B melodies and the techno style Danja (producer of Britney's Blackout) is known for is just strange at first, but truly works. It's a more experimental sound than you'd expect from the ladies, but it definitely works.

Take a listen to the preview below. Be sure to check out "Pretty Boy" and "Lights Out" because they're my personal favorites. Enjoy!

Mariah Carey feat. The-Dream - "Touch My Body (Remix)"

2008-03-08T11:32:00.001-05:00

It's not all that different. The beats basically the same (with some strange bells and whistles over it, for whatever reason) but I actually like Dream's little additions on this one! The subtle stuff he does in the chorus really adds to the catchiness of the song, and I LOVE his verse! It breaks down at the bridge which is kind of cool too. It's nothing amazing like most of her remixes, but its fun and serves its purpose. Enjoy!

Madonna feat. Justin Timberlake - "4 Minutes" Radio Rip

2008-03-07T12:50:00.002-05:00

Here's a radio rip of Madonna's new song "4 Minutes." I'm not sure how I feel about it just yet. The production is VERY Timbaland, and there's a lot of Justin on the vocals. I don't love it, but I don't hate it. It's no "Touch My Body" though! haha! Enjoy:

Ashanti - "The Way That I Love You" Video

2008-03-07T12:36:00.001-05:00

Scary....

Ashlee Simpson - "Little Miss Obsessive"

2008-03-07T12:26:00.003-05:00

Here's Ashlee Simpson's new single "Little Miss Obsessive" from her upcoming album Bittersweet World. It features Tom Higgens of the Plain White T's on vocals, and, while I'm not sure if he produced it or not, this song's production is very reminiscent of Timbaland's work on OneRepublic's "Apologize." I REALLY like this song--the lyrics are great and the melody is catchy. If Ashlee is going to have another real post-SNL hit, I think this could be it. Take a listen:

Janet Jackson - "Rock With You" Video

2008-03-07T12:25:00.003-05:00

Janet Jackson - Discipline Album Review

2008-03-07T11:51:00.003-05:00

So, Janet Jackson's new album Discipline hit stores over my hiatus, and it's pretty good. While the album has more possible hits on it than 20 Y.O. and Damita Jo, it's just hard to believe this is the same woman who released The Velvet Rope 10 years ago and Rhythm Nation 20 years ago. Not to say this record isn't good, but I guess if you have a back catalog THAT amazing, it's alot to live up to.

As for her new music, "2Nite" is the song with the most hit-potential. Stargate produced a dance-pop track along the same lines of "Don't Stop the Music" for Rihanna, and here Janet truly excels. The catchy pop number is Janet completely in her element, and by the breakdown, it almost feels like she took a cue from brother Michael's "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'" breakdown (which also harkens back to Rihanna, oddly). But overall, this track has the biggest possibility of being a hit by a longshot.

"Rollercoaster" is strange R&B number produced by Rodney Jerkins, with a sluggish rhythm on the chorus, and off-kilter vocal harmonies throughout. As experiments often go, it's very interesting but not 100% successful.

"Greatest X" is a The-Dream produced ballad in a similar vein of Mary J. Blige's "Come to Me (Peace)". The song itself is a throwback to Janet's classic ballads, and I think her voice sounds sweet on it. I almost wish she'd sung out a little bit more on this one, but I also could hear this on the radio. Very easy to listen to.

"So Much Betta" is another off-kilter R&B jam, heavy on the pitch-shifter, and light on any sort of melody. Everybody knows I love me some Janet, but this song is just plain not good. I like those little parts where she's "I'm what you've been missing" I suppose.

"The 1" is also pretty okay. An obvious nod to the Rich Harrison "1 Thing", "Crazy In Love" sound, the song go-gos right along with them. The only issue here is Missy Elliott upstages Janet completely as she spits out two attitude-soaked sass-raps the energy goes from 0 to 60 in a matter of seconds.

I think I'm going to add "What's Ur Name" and "Curtains" to this playlist, because Janet oddly enough sounds most comfortable on those R&B midtempos on the album, which showcase some of the best songwriting on the album.

Take a listen below:

Mariah Carey - "Touch My Body" Video

2008-03-07T11:39:00.002-05:00

Firstly, sorry guys for the lack of updates. I've had a lot to do, so the blog just fell to the wayside for a bit, but I'm back now! No worries!

Well here's Mariah's new video for "Touch My Body" that features 30 Rock's Jack McBrayer. Take a look!

Mariah Carey - "Touch My Body"

2008-02-12T16:36:00.000-05:00

Okay, clearly I love this woman but DAMNNNNNN i didn't even think this song would be as AMAZING as it is! It's a radio-friendly R&B/Pop jam that is catchy, sexy, and everything you'd ever want from Mariah, honestly. Her voice is soo clear (like no whispering....w00t!) and melodically the song is sweeter than just about any Emancipation of Mimi single. She just knows how to write a damn good pop song, and with her and The-Dream together, there's no doubt the results are going to be amazing! And she didn't even put those "eh"s in the song, and its still the hookiest new song I've heard this year. I'm ACTUALLY blown away---it's the best first single she's released since "Heartbreaker" or even "Honey" in my opinion. Check it out:

New Mariah Carey album titled E=MC², Touch My Body drops TODAY

2008-02-12T11:18:00.000-05:00

The wait is over people--Mariah Carey's new single "Touch My Body" hits radiowaves today! Her new album, E=MC², hits stores April 15th, and I'll be posting the song later today! Take a look at the press release:

MARIAH CAREY ANNOUNCES E=MC² !! NEW ALBUM IN STORES APRIL 15th - FOLLOWS-UP WORLDWIDE 10 MILLION-SELLING, MULTI-GRAMMY WINNING THE EMANCIPATION OF MIMI

"Touch My Body" first single hits radio February 12th, written and produced by Mariah Carey, C. "Tricky" Stewart and The-Dream- video directed by Brett Ratner, premiere to be announced (February 12, 2008 - New York, NY) Performer and songwriter Mariah Carey has set April 15th as the in-store date for the most eagerly anticipated album of the year, E=MC². The 11th studio album of her career, E=MC² is the follow-up to The Emancipation Of Mimi, Mariah's worldwide 10 million selling #1 album, which generated three Grammy awards (including Best Contemporary R&B Album), 2 #1 singles and countless more industry honors during its 18-month stay on the charts.

The first single from E=MC² is "Touch My Body," written and produced by Mariah Carey, C. "Tricky" Stewart, and The-Dream, and blasting out worldwide on February 12th. The video for "Touch My Body" was directed by feature filmmaker Brett Ratner - internet, cable and network premieres for the video will be announced in the weeks ahead. In addition to C. "Tricky" Stewart and The-Dream, other guest producers joining Mariah on E=MC² will include Jermaine Dupri, DJ Toomp, Stargate, Will I Am, Bryan Michael Cox, Nate "Danjahandz" Hills and James Poyser. E=MC² is executive produced by Mariah Carey and Antonio "LA" Reid, Chairman, Island Def Jam Music Group.

The Emancipation Of Mimi, released April 12, 2005, was an industry phenomenon for the mega-platinum award-winning superstar - Soundscan's biggest-selling album of the year, bringing total sales of Mariah's albums, singles and videos to more than 160 million worldwide, making her the most successful female recording artist in history. Mimi featured "We Belong Together" (winner of the Best Female R&B Vocal and Best R&B Song Grammys) and "Don't Forget About Us," Mariah's 16th and 17th #1 career singles respectively. They tied one of the most enduring chart records in Billboard Hot 100 history, Elvis Presley's 17 #1's. Mariah is now positioned as the only active recording artist in the 48 years of the Hot 100 (which began in 1958) with the potential to surpass the Beatles' all-time high of 20 #1 hits.

Ashlee Simpson - "Rule Breaker"

2008-02-10T12:59:00.000-05:00

WOW! This new Ashlee song is featured on her iTunes EP that was released this past Tuesday and it's RIDICULOUS. The beat is hott, the lyrics are HILARIOUS ("Some say I'm a black sheep/Cuz I like to sleep late/Wake up 'round 3 o' clock/Drink until my tummy ache") - and thinking about her and her "boyfriend" (i.e. Fall Out Boy's Pete Wentz) liking to "smash things" brings me endless joy. Think "La La" meets Rihanna's "Breakin' Dishes" meets Nelly Furtado's "Maneater." It's SO in your face - I personally think it should've been the first single. It probably wouldn't do well, but it'd definitely get noticed! Check it out:

Usher feat. Young Jeezy - In This Club

2008-02-10T12:49:00.001-05:00

Usher's first single off his upcoming album has FINALLY dropped. The Polow Da Don-produced "In This Club" is a midtempo R&B production with more electronic elements than one would expect from Usher. With the swirling pads, and staccato keyboard lines, it's pretty obvious Usher and his producers have been listening to FutureSex/LoveSounds for some inspiration. The song itself is as fairly melodic and kind of catchy, but I'm fairly sure everybody and their mom is sick of the constant "eh"s at this point. Not to mention the lyrics - EW! I truly hope no one actually makes love in the club as a result of this song...but otherwise the songs pretty cool! Take a listen yourself:

Lil' Mama feat. Chris Brown & T-Pain - "Shawty Get Loose" Video

2008-02-02T14:31:00.000-05:00

The video is HOT! Very reminiscent of Michael & Janet Jackson's "Scream" video. Check it out!

Usher - "Moving Mountains" (Clip)

2008-02-02T14:26:00.000-05:00

This is a clip of "Moving Mountains", a song to be featured on Usher's upcoming album. The song was written by The-Dream (isn't he everywhere these days??? I'm not sick of him just yet, but I'm pretty sure that's coming). Lyrically the song is really great, in my opinion. The line "That was before the great depression came in and rocked us" is a little ridiculous, but the serious tone created by the beat and the rest of the lyrics offsets that. I wish the song was a little bit catchier, because I'm pretty sure I've heard The-Dream talking about this track and he said it was like "Umbrella" x10, but it's just not. It's pretty good though! Take a listen:

Janet Jackson feat. Ciara - Feedback (Remix)

2008-02-01T22:00:00.000-05:00

Um....I don't know if this is official or something that Ciara just did on her own somehow. The song probably would have worked well if they recorded at the same place or used the same effects or something, but for whatever reason this sounds incredibly cut-and-paste. But it IS a good idea, to be fair, because Ciara has been ripping off Janet for years! They were BOUND to collaborate some kind of way! Take a listen!

Janet Jackson - "Rock With You" & "Luv"

2008-02-01T21:08:00.000-05:00

Janet Jackson's official website JanetJackson.com updated with "Rock With You" and "Luv"---two brand new tracks off of Janet's upcoming album Discipline and, I gotta say, they are pretty great. They both have had to grow on me today as I listened to them, but I'm pretty sure, if this is any indication, her album is going to be pretty fantastic. "Rock With You" is an atmospheric dance track that wouldn't be out of place on a post-Ray Of Light Madonna release. It also is comparable to Robyn's UK #1 "With Every Heartbeat", and has grown on me ALOT! The song is the next single off of Discipline and is expected to hit radio February 11th. Take a listen:

Next up is the Rodney Jerkins penned "Luv" which was my favorite from the get go! For whatever reason, whenever Janet sings in Luv = Car metaphors, it comes out soooo good (i.e. "Pleasure Principle"). The song is SOO catchy and the beat is soo good! It's just a bouncy, summery song Janet TRULY excels at and i completely adore it! Take a listen:

Mariah Carey - "Touch My Body" Drama

2008-02-01T20:58:00.000-05:00

Okay, let me catch everybody up to date on Mariah's new single "Touch My Body." The song INITIALLY was supposed to hit radios on January 29th, but then got pushed back until February 5th. And MORE recently it has been pushed back TWO more times, and we've landed on February 19th. The lambs are pretty sure that the delay has a lot to do with Janet pushing a new single before her album drops, and they don't want Mariah to outshine her, because this is supposed to be Janet's big comeback moment. So I *think* the song should be available on February 12th, with the official impact date at February 19th, but I wouldn't bet on it. They ALWAYS could change it! haha

The good news is the song is supposed to be AMAZING and was co-written/produced by Mariah, The-Dream, and Jermaine Dupri. Honestly, I can't imagine how that collaboration could be anything but amazing, and if it's not, I'll be pissed. I mean, we were told this album would be out in November, and then April, and it's probably going to be pushed back until May now, so it BETTER be worth all the wait (which I'm sure it will be!)!

Check back for more updates and expect the song February 12th!

Janet Jackson - Discipline Tracklisting

2008-02-01T20:55:00.000-05:00

Here's the tracklisting for Janet Jackson's upcoming album Discipline:

1. I.D. (Interlude)
2. Feedback (by R. Jerkins)
3. LUV (by R. Jerkins)
4. Spinnin (Interlude)
5. Rollercoaster (by R. Jerkins)
6. Bathroom Break (Interlude)
7. Rock With U (by J. Dupri / Ne-yo)
8. 2nite (by Stargate)
9. Can't B Good (by Ne-Yo)
10. 4 Words (Interlude)
11. Never Letchu Go (J. Austin / J.Dupri)
12. Truth Or Dare (Interlude)
13. Greatest X (by The Dream / T. Stewart)
14. Good Morning Janet (Interlude)
15. So Much Betta
16. Play Selection (Interlude)
17. The 1 feat. Missy Elliott
18. What's Ur Name (by J. Dupri)
19. The Meaning (Interlude)
20. Discipline (by Ne-Yo)
21. Back (Interlude)
22. Curtains
23. Let Me Know (by Ne-Yo) [JAPANESE BONUS TRACK]
24. Feedback (Ralphi Rosario Electro Shock Radio Edit) [JAPANESE BONUS TRACK]

Ashlee Simpson - "Boys"

2008-02-01T20:48:00.000-05:00

This is a new song from Ashlee Simpson's upcoming album Bittersweet World. The song is a really cool, breezy pop song that's definitely grown on me since I first heard it. I like Ashlee's new sound thusfar---it's still very her, but just a little less guitars a little funkier. This Tuesday, Ashlee is scheduled to release a new three-song EP to iTunes that includes her single "Outta My Head" and a new song called "Rule Breaker." Get pumpt! And while you wait, check out "Boys":

Wynter Gordion - "Surveillance"

2008-02-01T20:37:00.000-05:00

"Surveillance" is the debut single from new artist Wynter Gordon on Atlantic Records. She is responsible for writing standout track "Gonna Breakthrough" from Mary J. Blige's Grammy-award winning album The Breakthrough and is making major waves with her single "Surveillance" written by The-Dream. The song is simply incredible, and reminiscent of Rihanna's smash "Umbrella." I'm expecting big things from this girl! Take a listen:

Danity Kane - "Damaged"

2008-02-01T20:23:00.000-05:00

This is Danity Kane's new single "Damaged" off their upcoming album Welcome to the Dollhouse. The song is BLAZIN'.
At first I wasn't all that into it, but it has definitely grown on me. It's very reminiscent of "Don't Stop The Music" by Rihanna, which is doing really well right now, so I hope this song does well too! Make sure to catch them on the new season of Making The Band on MTV. Enjoy!

Jesse McCartney - "Just Leavin'"

2008-02-01T19:01:00.000-05:00

This is Jesse McCartney's new single "Just Leavin'" off his upcoming album, and I'm kind of dumbfounded by it. A) The melody and the beat are both really good, it's catchy, and just judging by this I could see the song doing well. B) Apparently Jesse (aka Disney Channel favorite) thinks he's ghetto now....???? that's SUPER weird to hear. With lyrics like "That thing you got behind you is amazing" and "The one that's so so fly, The one that keep you high..." I'm just really thrown off by all that. It's like...dude...ur not Chris Brown. Take a listen for urself:

Mariah Carey's album - THAT CHICK - UK Listening Party Review

2008-01-16T19:17:00.000-05:00

Along with Janet Jackson's album Discipline, L.A. Reid previewed Mariah Carey's upcoming release That Chick. Above is a new promo pic for Mariah's new album (and it may be the cover...?). Click on it for a larger view. Check out the review of Mariah's new album below:

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We got to hear 10 tracks from the follow-up, That Chick, which I have to say sounded more polished and commercial than Janet's effort.

One track in particular is set to make big bucks, and that's Bye Bye - a torch song for people "who lost they grandmothers". I guarantee that Simon Cowell will be sick of hearing badly-realised auditions of it by the end of the year.

Lyrics were never Carey's strong point, mind you, so her paean to loss is summed up with not-very-insightful Hallmark platitudes like "I'd give the world to see your face" and "Life goes on". Profound, eh?

Still, at least it's better than when she desperately attempts to prove how bang up to date she is. In Touch My Body, she purrs to her lover: "If there's a camera up in here then I best not catch this flick on youtube (youtube)". Not exactly the sexiest boudoir come-on you've ever heard, is it?

But there are plenty of good tunes to counter the awesomely bad lyrics. Migrate, about a night out with Mariah while she wears jeans ("yeah, they fit", she informs us) is sure to be a candidate for heavy MTV rotation, although I hope to god they excise T-Pain's hopelessly strained vocals. Lovin' You Long Time, meanwhile, is a strutting uptempo number very much in the style of It's Like That.

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So the confirmed song titles (from this article and MariahDaily.com are:

"I'm That Chick You Like"
"Bye Bye"
"Touch My Body"
"Migrate"
"Heat
"Lovin' You Long Time"

Mariah's new single "I'm That Chick You Like" (which may be shortened to "That Chick" now I guess) is set to hit radio January 29th. Hopefully it'll leak before then, but you never know. That Chick hits stores in April. I CANNOT wait!!

Janet Jackson - Discipline UK Listening Party

2008-01-16T19:05:00.000-05:00

L.A. Reid held a Listening Party in the U.K. for Janet Jackson's upcoming album Discipline and Mariah Carey's upcoming album That Chick. Below is one reviewer's account of Janet's album:

--------------

First up, though, was Janet's Discipline. If you've heard the single, Feedback, you'll have a pretty good idea of what to expect from the album. It's crisp, danceable R&B lavished with Janet's trademark velvet harmonies.

The stand-out track was probably Tonight, a bubbling club track which can only be Jackson's response to Rihanna's Don't Stop The Music. Reid mentioned that some of the tracks weren't finished - and this one sounded like it was missing a sample somewhere in the mix. Once that's added, this could be Janet's biggest dance success since Together Again.

Love, Love, Love and This Can't Be Good saw the lyrical return of the sweet singer who first raised her head on Let's Wait Awhile - all coy and bashful while falling head over heels in love.

But the sleazy siren of 20 YO is also present. Title track Discipline is a gruseome plea for fetishistic S&M sex - with Janet referring to her lover as "Daddy" while asking to be tied up and disciplined. Given that her father is a well-documented control freak who used to beat his kids, this is more than a little uncomfortable.

Speaking of family connections, there's long been a rumour that Janet and Michael will team up again (as they did on 1996's Scream) this year. Well, nothing I heard today confirms that rumour - but there is a track called Rock With You that appears to sample the single of the same name from Off The Wall. Could the finished version feature guest vocals by the former King of Pop? I genuinely hope not.

The remaining two tracks, Rollercoaster and Greatest Ex Ever, didn't really set my world alight - but you never know what'll happen on repeated listens.

The main thing seems to be that Janet is back on form, vocally and lyrically. The record is very safe and commercial, although I'm not sure where they'll go for the third single (Tonight surely has to be the second). But as a first step towards career rehabilitation Def Jam have made a strong play for their newest diva.

--------------

SO the confirmed titles on the album are "Feedback", "Tonight", "Love, Love, Love", "This Can't Be Good", "Discipline", "Rock With You", "Rollercoaster", and "Greatest Ex Ever." The album Discipline is set to be released February 25th. Get ready for it.

Source: Discopop UK

Natasha Bedingfield - A.N.G.E.L.

2008-01-16T18:47:00.000-05:00

Natasha Bedingfield's new album Pocketful of Sunshine is featured on MTV.com's The Leak this week. The U.S. version of Natasha's UK release N.B., the album features six brand new tracks, and the standout is the Darkchild produced "A.N.G.E.L.". The hooky ballad is very much reminiscent of Mary J.'s "Be Without You", with its R&B backdrop, and I've-got-a-good-man message. It works much better than Natasha's lackluster first single "Love Like This" with Sean Kingston, and I think it should be her next single after the title track. Take a listen:

Ashanti - The Way That I Love You

2008-01-16T18:37:00.000-05:00

Ashanti's new single "The Way That I Love You" leaked and it's pretty good! The song will replace her "Last Night" rip-off "Hey Baby (After The Club)" as the first single on her new album The Declaration. The song is clearly in the "Be Without You"/"We Belong Together" vein, and is pretty okay to me. People on the boards are going crazy over it, though, so maybe I'm just not hearing the hit factor just yet. Take a listen and let me know what you think:

Missy Elliott - Ching-A-Ling

2008-01-16T18:31:00.000-05:00

This is Missy Elliott's contribution to the Step Up 2 soundtrack. It's no "Work It", but it's definitely nice to hear her on a track again! I'd say the lazy delivery on the chorus and the percussion-based track remind me most of "Pass That Dutch." I'm definitely pumpt about her album after hearing this one, so hopefully she'll deliver. Check it out!

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Lil' Mama feat. T-Pain & Chris Brown - Shawty Get Loose

2008-01-16T18:25:00.000-05:00

That is Chris Brown & Lil' Mama on the set of their new video for her thrid single "Shawty Get Loose." The "Lip Gloss" hip-popper worked with Chris & T-Pain on a followup that will hopefully build on the "Lip Gloss" momentum that lost steam with the release of "G-Slide (Tour Bus)" (even though that song is hot too, but whatevs.). Take a listen below:

Janet Jackson Update

2008-01-16T17:55:00.000-05:00

I'd like to apologize for the lack of updates for a while! Life's been crazy, but we're jumping back into the blog thing so get ready for it!!

Well firstly, Janet Jackson premiered her new video for "Feedback" and its really added to the buzz of the single! It's mad cool---like a darker "Oops! I Did It Again" feel! Check it out:

Then her album cover for 'Discipline' has appeared more recently on the net:

And i gotta say, it took me awhile to get used to it, but now i think it's hot!

Danity Kane - 2 Of You

2008-01-04T19:19:00.000-05:00

A new song from Making The Band's Danity Kane has leaked and it's HOT. It's unkown whether the song is from their upcoming sophomore album or the upcoming Step Up 2 soundtrack, but its a great party song that reminds me of Brandy's "Sadiddy" and Diddy & Keyshia Cole's "Last Night." Enjoy!

P.S. Look out for Aubrey's Fergie rap @ 2:45. Hilarious.

Listen to Matt P's Top 25 Songs of 2007

2008-01-01T15:31:00.001-05:00

Matt P's Top 25 Songs of 2007 - 5-1

2008-01-01T13:48:00.000-05:00

Final Round! Here's Part 3 of the Top 25 of 2007. Enjoy!

5. “Lip Gloss” – Lil’ Mama
How a bass drum and some claps can sound SO huge is beyond me. Lil’ Mama gives the pop world a kick in the pants, bringing some of the feel-good, double dutch rhymes that can’t help but put a smile on your face. Just listen to the last verse of the song and tell me it’s not amazing. Ms. McClarson is mad cool.

4. “Rehab” – Amy Winehouse
Amy Winehouse’s smokey tone and slurred vocal are right at home in this ’60s throwback masterpiece. Mark Ronson’s production, complete with light bells, atmospheric strings, tight brass and lilting piano, gives Amy enough room to tell her somber tale with all the emotion her voice has to give. The summery backdrop against lyrics like “I’m gonna lose my baby/So I always keep a bottle near” gives the song a complexity that is hard to find on pop radio these days.

3. “Sober” – Kelly Clarkson
Kelly Clarkson’s “Sober” might be 2007’s most overlooked pop song. Sure it doesn’t have the hook of “Since U Been Gone,” but the light acoustic guitar, orchestral percussion, and flawless vocal performance draws the listener in and never lets go. And if you don’t have goosebumps by the end of the bridge, I’m pretty sure you’re a robot.

2. “Gimme More” – Britney Spears
Say what you will about the VMA performance disaster, the low-budge video, or Ms. Spears herself, but this Keri Hilson-penned song is one of Britney’s most addictive hits. The urban beats reminds the listener of Britney’s “Slave 4 U” days (and a less weird “SexyBack”), and the melody is classic Britney – unashamedly pop. Now if only we could the visuals attached to this song out of our heads…

1. “Umbrella” – Rihanna
There is no doubt in my mind that if any song is remembered from 2007 twenty years from now, it will be “Umbrella.” Not the typical song-of-the-summer, this moody midtempo has a depth and a groove that no one expected from Rihanna, and catapulted her to worldwide superstardom. And when it rains from now on I’m sure you’ll overhear somebody singing “ella ella ella eh eh” in the distance. It’s probably me…sorry.

Matt P's Top 25 Songs of 2007 - 10-6

2007-12-31T20:48:00.000-05:00

Part Two of my Year-End Countdown! Happy New Year guys!!

10. “Piece of Me” – Britney Spears
The worst part of watching the Britney Spears tabloid fodder is that she is actually releasing some of the best music of her career. In any other world, “Piece of Me” would’ve been Blackout’s “Toxic,” with Bloodshy & Avant creating a similar futuristic landscape for this track. Her robotic vocals highlight the songs theme, and as far as ‘I hate the paparazzi’ songs go, this one is pretty great.

9. “Big Girls Don’t Cry” – Fergie
What can be said of a well-written pop song? Showing a new depth to Ms. Fergalicious, the Toby Gad-written acoustic guitar laden production is more Kelly Clakrson than Fergie Ferg, and made those who her wrote her off after “My Humps” take a second look.

8. “Get Me Bodied (Extended Mix)”/”Upgrade U” – Beyoncé
With “Get Me Bodied”, the stomp-and-soul clap beat, shouted vocal, and syncopated rhythm created the most unapologetic party song on the Beyoncé’s hard-hitting B’Day. The Swizz Beatz production, the melodic bridge, and the impeccable dancebreak outro makes “Get Me Bodied” a high-energy, dancefloor filler.

With “Upgrade U”, the more midtempo jam relies on a more stutter stop beat and an unbelievable synth-horn sample courtesty of, once again, Swizz Beatz. The song’s bouncing beat, impeccable appearance by Jay-Z, and catchy, tongue twister vocals, make the song amazing, even when she’s singing about DirectTV.

7. “Kiss Kiss” – Chris Brown feat. T-Pain
I’ll admit it – I was very resistant to this song when it initially hit radios. T-Pain had already been on every hip-pop hit of the year so far, and while Chris Brown’s an undeniable talent, his material always seemed a little mediocre. But after repeat listens, the autotuned-soaked, call-and-response hit stood out from the rest.

6. “No One” – Alicia Keys
There are just some songs that the first time you hear them, you know they’re classics. This epic first single from Keys’ latest opus As I Am and she takes on a more pop/rock-influence on the song – from classic synthesizers to acoustic guitar. The positive message and raw vocals are further proof that Keys is a gift from a different era, and I for one thank her for that.

Matt P's Top 25 Songs of 2007 - 25-11

2007-12-30T16:50:00.001-05:00

25. “No Air” – Jordin Sparks feat. Chris Brown

24. “Like A Drug” – Kylie Minogue

23. “You Ruined Me” – JC Chasez

22. “Don’t Stop The Music” – Rihanna

21. “Lollipop” – Mika

20. “The Pieces Don’t Fit Anymore” – James Morrison

19. “LoveStoned/I Think She Knows (Interlude)” – Justin Timberlake

18. “S.O.S.” – Jonas Brothers

17. “The One” – Vanessa Carlton (with Stevie Nicks)

16. “Nothing Lasts Forever” – Maroon 5

15. “Apologize” – Timbaland feat. OneRepublic

14. “With Every Heartbeat” – Robyn

13. “Good Life” – Kanye West feat. T-Pain

12. “Girlfriend” – Avril Lavigne

11. “About You Now” – Sugababes

New Videos From Ne-Yo & Ciara!

2007-12-25T04:42:00.000-05:00

Check out Ciara's "That's Right" and Ne-Yo's "Go On Girl" below!

Merry Christmas everybody! Hope you have a good one!

Spice Girls - "2 Become 1" LIVE

2007-12-23T16:05:00.000-05:00

The Spice Girls performed their hit "2 Become 1" on UK TV show Strictly Come Dancing, sang live and sounded PRETTY good! Take a look:

Pop Christmas Mix

2007-12-21T18:08:00.001-05:00

Just because I feel everybody needs a little dose of holiday spirit, I've compiled some of the best pop Christmas songs in a nice little playlist for you! Merry Christmas!

I think my playlist is pretty self-explanatory, so I won't bore you with my thoughts on the songs. "All I Want For Christmas" is CLEARLY the best original Christmas song that's been written in the last twenty years, so I thought it was only fair to start the list off with that. And while some of the artists may seem suspect - namely Jessica Simpson - Jessica & Nick's duet on "Baby, It's Cold Outside" is actually REALLY great and in keeping with the Christmas spirit. My pet peeve is when pop artists slut up Christmas (i.e. 3LW's Naughty or Nice), so I made sure all the songs were Christmassy forreal.

Make sure to give a listen to Mariah's "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" and 'N Sync's "O Holy Night" cuz they're both COMPLETELY a cappella, and the arrangements are RIDICULOUS. Enjoy & Happy Holidays!

Hot Five for 12.21.07

2007-12-21T03:51:00.000-05:00

1. Natasha Bedingfield - "Pocketful of Sunshine"

This is Natasha Bedingfield's second single off her upcoming sophomore American disc also called Pocketful of Sunshine. The song was featured at the end of the season finale of MTV's The Hills and I like it alot! It's a very upbeat, summery jam, that's in-line with a lot of her earlier hits. Enjoy!

2. Janet Jackson - "Feedback"

Janet's back pplz! This song is REALLY great, and has grown on me a lot actually since I first heard it. Can't wait for her new album Discipline.

P.S. I hear that cover I posted is fake, but its SOO hot I hope its real. Click on the image for a closer look!

3. Nicole Scherzinger - "Puakenikeni"

FINALLY! Nicole Scherzinger comes out with something that's NOT terrible. "Puakenikeni" was my fave of all the clips of the songs we'd heard a while back, and I'm pretty happy it got picked for her....3rd single i guess? Damn! I wonder if this album will ever com out? I DO know there's another hot one on there tho. The one Ne-Yo wrote for her called "Happily Never After" is BEAUTIFUL as well. Check out Nicole perform that one live here.

4. Ashlee Simpson - "Outta My Head (Ay Ya Ya)"

Another one that's REALLY grown on me since it first leaked. The name is appropriate because I ALWAYS catch myself seeing this song, cuz its consistently in my head. I'm excited to hear more of her album Bittersweet World and I hope it's as good as her previous albums.

5. Blake Lewis - "How Many Words"

Please ignore the Photoshop disaster that is Blake's album cover. After one listen to his album, it's FAIRLY obvious that he wants to be Michael Prince Timberlake (with an electro twist) but if you're going to imitate anybody, those are some pretty good people to imitate. While much of the album doesn't jump out, the stand out tracks REALLY pop. This one is a Timberlake-esque ballad that I believe was co-written and produced by OneRepublic lead singer Ryan Tedder. It definitely has some of the longing of "Apologize" and it's just a really winning moment for everybody involved. The melody is gorgeous and the scratching on his voice works really well here. I was pleasantly surprised with this one!

Michael Jackson - Thriller 25 Tracks

2007-12-20T10:02:00.000-05:00

Michael Jackson's remixes featuring Akon, Will.I.Am, and Kanye West have hit the 'net in low quality format, and I'm not quite sure how I feel about them just yet. The best by a mile is Will.I.Am's take on "The Girl Is Mine", and maybe it's because I was never too fond of that song to begin with, but I think the remix is AMAZING. The summer-clubby beat is so much more interesting to listen to than the adult contemporary/smooth jazz nonsense behind the original! haha:) - soo honestly, Upgrade on "The Girl is Mine" in my book.

My next favorite would probably be "Beat It" just because Will.I.Am stayed fairly true to the original which I appreciate. I'm not sure why it's a duet with Fergie Ferg now but, it's definitely not terrible (*cough*Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'*cough*). I like how the rhythm slows down and picks up, and I love the crazy new bassline that pops up circa 2:08. Good stuff.

Okay, then there's Kanye's take on "Billie Jean", which I'm OKAY with but I feel just doesn't really work as well as the other two. The song is great, and the beat is great, but together it sounds more like a mashup than a song---or a remix even. It's like Kanye brought Michael out to sing "Billie Jean" over "Jesus Walks" or something. It's a little too dark for my liking, and while i like that its EPIC, Michael-wise, it kind of just reminds me of "Who Is It?"

And then we get to the not so great stuff. Someone had the brilliant idea of just comPLETELY changing P.Y.T., my FAVORITE Thriller track, and I honestly don't even know what this is. It's just like a new - much more boring - version of the song. And Michael's verse kind of sounds out-of-key even..?? I don't know I kind of like the "You're the P. (P) Y. (Y) T. (T)" chant-y pre-chorus thing he and Will.I.Am do. But overall, no.

But FAR FAR FAR worse is Akon's "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'." Oh my EFFING God, this is a TRAVESTY. It's not even a remix, it's a COVER by Akon essentially. And a bad one at that. Good God. How are you going to compare Akon's "voice" to Michael's?!?!? It's like embarrassing this even got recorded and how it will be released on an actual CD is beyond me. Listen at your own risk. This will haunt my dreams.

Ashlee Simpson - "Outta My Head" Video

2007-12-19T13:11:00.000-05:00

Here's Ashlee's new video for "Outta My Head." The song comes from her upcoming album Bittersweet World set for a March release. As for the video, it's...interesting. I don't know how I feel about it just yet.

Timbaland performs Madonna's new single!

2007-12-17T07:12:00.000-05:00

At this year's Jingle Ball in Philadelphia, Timbaland played a piece of Madonna's upcoming single "4 Minutes to Save the World" and it sounds HOT! The song features Timbaland and Justin Timberlake, and while at first listen it sounds like all other Timbo productions this year, it REALLY grows on you! It's sooo EPIC. Like infinitely better than the Pharrell songs that leaked earlier this year---I can't wait to hear the song in good quality!!! Take a look:

Britney Spears - "Piece of Me" Video FULL

2007-12-14T02:20:00.000-05:00

Here's the premiere Britney's new video for "Piece of Me." She's on her way back I feel...but not QUITE there. Take a look!

New Mariah Single NEXT week?!?!?

2007-12-13T12:53:00.000-05:00

In the wake of all this new Janet stuff, I have been hearing mumblings of a new MARIAH single hitting the 'net as soon as NEXT WEEK. There are reports that Janet & Mariah are supposedly "competing" to see who'll have the biggest album next year (my money's on Mariah, btw) so I'm hoping this is true!

Mariah is hosting a New Year's party in Vegas this year, and this is EXACTLY where she premiered "It's Like That" in 2005, so I'm hoping this year won't be much different! w00t!

Janet Jackson's album 'DISCIPLINE' released February 26th!

2007-12-13T12:35:00.000-05:00

Island/Def Jam has released a press release revealing information about Janet Jackson's upcoming album 'Discipline.' Read below:

---------------------

JANET JACKSON TO RELEASE "FEEDBACK" - DEBUT SINGLE AT ISLAND DEF JAM MUSIC GROUP, IMPACTS JANUARY 7th

LEAD TRACK FROM DISCIPLINE - IDJ DEBUT ALBUM, SET FOR FEBRUARY 26th RELEASE

"Feedback" produced by Rodney Jerkins - other producers on new album include Jermaine Dupri, Ne-Yo, Stargate, Tricky Stewart, and The-Dream
Janet Jackson currently starring in Tyler Perry's Why Did I Get Married? , #1 box office smash

(December 13, 2007 - New York, NY) /PRNewswire/ - International megastar Janet Jackson, who has sold over 100 million albums worldwide and is the newest signing to the Island Def Jam Music Group, has completed her first new single for the label with hitmaking producer Rodney Jerkins. "Feedback" will impact across-the-board at all radio formats on January 7th.

DISCIPLINE, Janet Jackson's new album - and the 10th studio album of her career - is scheduled to arrive in stores on February 26th. In addition to Rodney Jerkins, the new album brings together an A-list of guest producers, including Jermaine Dupri, Ne-Yo, Stargate, Tricky Stewart, and The-Dream. DISCIPLINE was executive produced by Antonio "L.A." Reid, Chairman, Island Def Jam Music Group.

In a class all by herself, 5-time Grammy Award-winning and Oscar-nominated Janet Jackson is currently starring in Why Did I Get Married?, the smash hit movie by Tyler Perry, which opened #1 at the box office. This is the third motion picture of Janet's career, and her third to open at #1, following the success of Nutty Professor II: The Klumps (2000), and her leading title role in John Singleton's Poetic Justice (1993).

---------------------

Sounds AMAZING! Can't wait to hear her tracks with Ne-Yo, Stargate, and The-Dream! After all the MESS that's on '20 Y.O.', I'm a little wary of her tracks with Jermaine Dupri, but who knows. I could just really see Ne-Yo, Stargate, & Janet make something like "Thinkin' Bout My Ex" off 'Damita Jo' (I'll NEVER understand why this song wasn't released). She and Babyface KILLED that one! Take a listen:

Janet Jackson - "Feedback"

2007-12-12T17:33:00.000-05:00

godDAMN! Janet's new single from her upcoming album just leaked and its FIRE. I love the pre-chorus! "Strum me like a guitar/Blow out my amplifier/When you hear some feedback/Keep going take it higher"! W00000t! Sooooo good!! It's VERY "Gimme More"/"Sexy Back" but i hear a LOT more of Janet's style than i did on ANY of her last album. Less whispering here, and the song is just BLAZIN'! If she can follow up this song with another HOT one b4 her album drops, she'll be JUST fine! Go On Miss Janet!

According to Janet-Xone, "Feedback" is produced by Rodney Jerkins, and her new album will be in stores February 26th.

P.S. - WHERE'S NEW MARIAH?!

New Janet Single?!?!?

2007-12-11T17:06:00.000-05:00

Okay, according to Janet-Xone.com, the new Janet single should be debuting online this Saturday! The song is supposedly titled "No Limits on Love" and features T-Pain. I'll keep you up to date and see if they really follow through on this one, but I suppose it goes without saying that I'm VERY excited! w00t!

Britney Spears - The Blackout B-Sides

2007-12-08T20:40:00.000-05:00

Here are some B-Sides from Britney Spears' 'Blackout' sessions, and a remix of "Gimme More" and "Piece of Me." "Get Back" and "Outta This World" are HOT and def shoulda made the album, imo. No real reason for this post...it's just Christmas time. And I'm a giver.

J. Hud & Fergie at Movies Rock

2007-12-08T19:27:00.000-05:00

Here are two more performances from Movies Rock! Jennifer Hudson sings "Somewhere" from West Side Story and Fergie sings "Live and Let Die." Enjoy!

Beyoncé - "Somewhere Over The Rainbow" Live

2007-12-08T16:55:00.000-05:00

Beyoncé performed "Somewhere Over The Rainbow" live on CBS' Movies Rock special a couple of days ago. She sounded great! Take a look!

Kanye West and Amy Winehouse lead Grammy Nominees

2007-12-07T00:29:00.000-05:00

Kanye West & Amy Winehouse lead the list of Grammy nominees with eight and six respectively. Below are all the categories I care about (If you want them all, check out GRAMMY.com) and my picks for who SHOULD win, in my opinion:

Record of the Year:
"Irreplaceable" by Beyoncé
"The Pretender" by Foo Fighters
"Umbrella" by Rihanna
"What Goes Around...Comes Around" by Justin Timberalke
"Rehab" by Amy Winehouse

Album of the Year:
'Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace' by Foo Fighters
'These Days' by Vince Gill
'River: The Joni Letters' by Herbie Hancock
'Graduation' by Kanye West
'Back to Black' by Amy Winehouse

Song of the Year
"Before He Cheats" (Carrie Underwood)
"Hey There Delilah" (Plain White T's)
"Like a Star" (Corrine Bailey Rae) - seriously?
"Rehab" (Amy Winehouse)
"Umbrella" (Rihanna)

Best New Artist
Feist
Ledisi
Paramore
Taylor Swift
Amy Winehouse

Best Female Pop Vocal Performance
"Candyman" by Christina Aguilera
"1234" by Feist
"Big Girls Don't Cry" by Fergie
"Say It Right" by Nelly Furtado
"Rehab" by Amy Winehouse

Best Female R&B Vocal Performance
"Just Fine" by Mary J. Blige
"When I See You" by Fantasia
"No One" by Alicia Keys
"If I Have My Way" by Chrisette Michele
"Hate On Me" by Jill Scott

Best R&B Song
"Beautiful Flower" (India.Arie)
"Hate That I Love You" (Rihanna feat. Ne-Yo)
"No One" (Alicia Keys)
"Teachme" (Musiq)
"When I See You" (Fantasia)

Madonna's Next Album Called 'Licorice'

2007-12-07T00:02:00.000-05:00

According to Billboard.com, Madonna's new album will be titled "Licorice." "Candyshop" and "The Beat Goes On", two (underwhelming) songs that leaked earlier on this year, are said to be on the album. "The Beat Goes On" is supposed to be re-worked, and is set to feature a rap by Kanye West, so hopefully that'll help. I dunno, I think these songs are fine, but definitely not up to Madonna's standards. They sound like Nelly Furtado B-Sides to me. Take a listen, and judge for yourself. This is "Candyshop":

Mary J. Blige - Growing Pains

2007-12-06T23:42:00.000-05:00

Alright everybody, I've got a preview for Mary J. Blige's new one Growing Pains! I've posted my favorite songs on the album, and they are all pretty great. "Work That" is Mary's second single that you might of seen on the new iTunes commercials out now. It's a cool uptempo with a positive message, and I like it a LOT more than Mary's first single "Just Fine," but maybe that's just me. Then there's "Hurt Again" which tells the story of a girl who acts less into her man than she actually is just so, if he leaves, it'll hurt less. It's the kind of real-life narrative that Mary is the BEST of emoting and the song is real smooth. I like it alot!

Then there's Shake Down featuring Usher, which is a BIG hit in the making. I'm PRETTY sure The-Dream wrote this one (seeing as there are like a million "eh"s on it), and it's definitely hot. This one sounds a bit like Bow Wow & Omarion's "Girlfriend", but the verses and the bridge are MUCH better on this one. My only issue is the chorus is a little bit of a let down at first cuz they basically say "It's a shake down" over and over again, but the song still works (Check out the bridge, forrealz. It rocks.)

"Roses" like "Hurt Again" is another real-life scenario of a girl getting fed up with her man. It's a bit darker than "Hurt Again" but it's definitely emotional! "Work in Progress (Growing Pains)" is the song Ne-Yo wrote for Mary on the album and it's really, really nice. It's shows her more vulnerable than we've heard on the album so far, and it has a great melody. Ne-Yo just knows how to write a pop song, and this is another example of that.

Last and DEFINITELY not least is the final track "Come to Me (Peace)" which I've been FAIRLY obsessed with since this album leaked. The song is just gorgeous and SO melodic. I REALLY hope it's a single. If this is The-Dream too (which it could be judging from the repetitive "peace" refrain), this is the best thing I've heard from him since "Umbrella." The electro production on top of the piano really adds a different element than most ballads, and the vocal arrangement is beyond gorgeous. The point is this is the best song on the album and REALLY needs to be released so PLEASE give this one a listen.

Overall, the album is pretty solid. It's definitely a grower, and The-Dream needs to cut down on the repetitiveness on some tracks, but overall, the album is very good.

Jennifer Lopez - "Hold It, Don't Drop It" Video

2007-12-04T01:40:00.000-05:00

As a Mariah fan, I am morally opposed to liking this, but you have to know your enemy.

The Beyoncé Experience DVD

2007-12-02T02:23:00.000-05:00

Beyoncé released her DVD last week, and EVERYBODY truly needs to pick this up. If Beyoncé is anything, she's an entertainer. The entire concert featured really cool live instrumentation, and her vocals held up beautifully. While a lot of the DVD-rips, have been taken off YouTube, I've got an audio preview just to show you how amazing she sounded! Check out her version of Gnarles Barkley's "Crazy" in "Crazy In Love", her new arrangement of "Me, Myself, and I", and Jay-Z featured in the performance of "Upgrade U."

Alicia Keys - "No One" Live on Stripped

2007-12-02T02:07:00.000-05:00

Okay, I SWEAR I'll stop posting videos of Alicia Keys performing "No One", but this one is AMAZING. It's for her Stripped performance, which is like the online equivalent to MTV Unplugged, and she sings it with her background vocalists, some guitar, piano, and sparse percussion and it's BEAUTIFUL. She is killing it and I'm soo glad this song/album is such a success for her because this is the best Alicia's ever been!

Kelly Rowland - "Daylight (Feat. Travis McCoy)"

2007-12-01T22:08:00.000-05:00

This is the first single off of the re-release of her album Ms. Kelly. The song features Travis McCoy of Gym Class Heroes on the song and it's pretty cool. It's an uptempo pop song, and I don't really understand how they plan to fit this onto her more R&B-focused album, but good luck to her. It's pretty alright!

Ashlee Simpson - "Outta My Head (Ay Ya Ya Ya)"

2007-11-30T19:08:00.000-05:00

I must admit my first reaction to this song was NOT positive. I was actually fairly disgusted...gotta say! BUT with repeated listens, I think its a pretty fun song and i MIGHT even like it. I'll expound more later I'm sure, but as someone who PROUDLY still listens to Ashlee's first album cuz it's BANGIN', its not as good as that stuff.

Michael Jackson Releasing Deluxe Edition of Thriller?!?!? Kanye, Akon, Will.I.Am remixing??? New SINGLE?!?!

2007-11-30T14:43:00.000-05:00

According to MTV.com, Michael Jackson is releasing a DELUXE edition of Thriller on February 12, 2008.

Akon & Will.I.Am do a version of "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'" (Dear Akon, don't mess up a classic. i WILL kill you), Kanye remixes "Billie Jean", and Will.I.Am is remixing "P.Y.T." and "The Girl is Mine."

Michael also is including newly mixed "For All Time", "Someone in the Dark", "Carousel", and the original "Billie Jean" demo from the Thriller recording sessions. It ALSO comes with a DVD with the "Thriller", "Beat It", and "Billie Jean" short films and his classic Motown 25 performance.

I can't wait. Say what you will about him, but he is unDENIABLY a music legend and I canNOT wait for this. And if Will.I.Am or Akon effs this up, I will be LIVID (I'm assuming Kanye won't ruin this...he's more consistent).

Here's the tracklist:

1. "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'
2. "Baby Be Mine"
3. "The Girl Is Mine"
4. "Thriller"
5. "Beat It"
6. "Billie Jean"
7. "Human Nature"
8. "P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)"
9. "The Lady in My Life"
10. "Carousel"
11. "Someone in the Dark"
12. "Billie Jean" (demo)
13."The Girl Is Mine 2008" with will.i.am
14. "P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing) 2008" with Michael Jackson and will.i.am
15. "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' 2008" with Michael Jackson, Akon and will.i.am
16."Billie Jean 2008" with Kanye West
17. "For All Time"

And apparently the first single from the album (which I'm assuming is one of the new 2008 versions) is due in December. This is going to be AMAZING.

DJ Toomp on Working with Mariah

2007-11-29T17:02:00.000-05:00

Hip-hop producer DJ Toomp (T.I., Jay-Z, Kanye West) talks about his track on Mariah's new album:

The album, which is set to feature production by Toomp, Jermaine Dupri, Bryan-Michael Cox, Swizz Beatz, Stargate, Polow Da Don, T-Pain, Danja and EVERYONE else in the world apparently, is set to be released first quarter next year. We're STILL waiting for news on the single...I LOVE u Mariah, but I'm becoming impatient.

Usher's Baby's name is...

2007-11-28T01:35:00.000-05:00

Usher Raymond V. Shocking I know. I was basically right. I didn't know there are THREE more Usher's before him...scary.

Alicia Keys on Tyra

2007-11-28T00:37:00.000-05:00

Here's videos of Alicia Keys' recent appearance on Tyra!

Interview

Like You Never See Me Again

No One

Janet Jackson album due in February

2007-11-28T00:27:00.000-05:00

Janet Jackson's new album on Island/Def Jam is set for to be released this upcoming February. The disc, her first on Island/Def Jam, is being produced by label president L.A. Reid. Knowing him, it'll be pushed back when he hears it so she can record more tracks. But to be fair, that's how he got The Emancipation of Mimi to be such a hit so maybe that's not the worst idea. And the best news is Jermaine Dupri has not produced ANY tracks on the album as of late. Woo! Thank GOD we've all learned from the mess that was 20 Y.O.

It was also announced today that the William Morris Agency is taking on Miss Jackson as a client. The agency is home to superstars like Rihanna, Ciara, and Alicia Keys, so I'd assume this is also good news. I'm really hoping she comes back, cuz I was a HUGE fan of hers back in the day!

Usher and wife welcome baby boy

2007-11-28T00:18:00.000-05:00

Usher's wife Tameka Foster gave birth to the couple's first son Monday evening. Congratulations to them!! Haven't heard what the name is...but my money's Usher Jr., Usher II, Prince Usher or Usher's Da Best. Just a guess...

Bow Wow & Omarion - "Girlfriend" Video

2007-11-27T00:46:00.000-05:00

I know this video came out like three weeks ago but I didn't pay attention to it because I don't especially like either of them--but I saw the video today and its kind of alright...? I don't know! Maybe it's me just being okay with anything The-Dream writes at the moment, or is this not that bad? Thoughts?

In case you haven't heard....

2007-11-27T00:41:00.000-05:00

I guess i didn't explicitly state this news here, but CONGRATULATIONS to Alicia Keys whose new album As I Am debuted at #1 in the U.S. with over 740,000 copies sold. That is the second biggest debut of the year (second to Kanye) and the biggest debut by a female artist in two years. Who says people don't buy CDs anymore?!

Jordin Sparks Album Preview

2007-11-27T00:16:00.000-05:00

Jordin Sparks' released her self-titled debut last Tuesday, and while its been actually getting pretty good reviews, sadly sales aren't looking good (supposedly she's struggling to break 100,000 copies). This is really a shame because, imo, her album is better than most American Idol winners' debuts and REALLY should be listened to. "Tattoo" is actually doing well too -- I don't get it! The point is, now you can hear my favorites from her album on this blog, so HOPEFULLY you'll be convinced and pick up Jordin's CD ASAP. Okay, that probably won't happen, but I can hope.

I won't bore you with another rant on the amazingness of "No Air" cuz I've talked about that song SEVERAL times already, but its still true. The song is ridonkulous. "One Step at a Time" is a sweet, uplifting pop song with a nice message and a great melody. It's probably too poppy to do well on radio, but it's very melodic and catchy, and well put together. Next up is "Freeze" which is very reminiscent of Nelly Furtado's "Say It Right" in my opinion, and is also great. The beat is clearly inspired by Timbaland's work, and her strong vocals definitely make the rhythmic ballad stand out. It's very atmospheric like "Say It Right" and I think it'd do well as a single.

"Shy Boy" I have to say I'm a bit on the fence about. It's done by Britney collaborators Bloodshy & Avant, and while I LOVE their work with Britney, this song just comes across as weird. The electro-effects are just so unnecessary with a voice like Jordin's and the lyrics are kind of hokey. So why'd I include it you might ask?? Well, it seems to be a fan favorite so maybe I'm missing something that people like about it---I dunno. If someone can explain its appeal to me, it'd be much appreciated.

And last but CERTAINLY not least is "Next To You." Sure, at first it seems like another cheap "We Belong Together" knockoff (Paula Deanda anybody?), but the song REALLY grows on you. The intimate lyric works well with the simplistic melody, and she sounds really great all the way through.

While the rest of the album (sans "Permanent Monday" and "Now You Tell Me") leaves some to be desired, her album is heaps better than MANY idol debuts, and she's a really nice girl. Pick it up!

Sugababes - "Change" Video

2007-11-19T01:59:00.000-05:00

Wow! This is the video for the title track off the Sugababes' latest album Change. The song is very pretty and (even though I was REALLY pulling for "Open The Door" or "Suprise" as the next single) I'm sure it'll do very well in the UK. The video also is really stunning. I love the colors and the entire feel of the video, and I'm glad they took the artistic approach. I understand labels are cutting back on video budgets nowadays because we all just watch them on YouTube videos anyways, but with videos like this one and Gwen's "Early Winter", I'm really hoping people re-discover the greatness of videos. Enjoy!

P.S. - What is it going to take to get the Sugababes over in the U.S.??? I feel like this new record could really work.

Beyoncé - The Beyoncé Experience DVD Preview

2007-11-19T01:02:00.000-05:00

"Freakum Dress"

"Baby Boy"

"Get Me Bodied"

Okay, Beyoncé's tour DVD is going to be unbelievable. She puts on the best show of ANY Pop performer today (sans Madonna, obvs). I'm still kicking myself for not going to see her on this tour so I will absolutely be first in line to pick this up. I've even seen her twice before and I feel like I missed out! Ugh. What can you do? The past is the past...

Gwen Stefani - "Early Winter" Video

2007-11-19T00:53:00.000-05:00

Here's the video for Gwen Stefani's new video. It's GORGEOUS. I'm pretty much in love with it. She co-wrote the song with Keane's Tim Rice-Oxley, and you can definitely tell. She looks gorgeous, the song is great (why they released "4 In The Morning" ever is beyond me)--I have ALMOST no complaints. The only thing is...did we REALLY need to edit the song cut-and-paste style the whole time??? I'll get over it though, because the song & video are pretty unbelievable. Take a look!

Mariah Carey - The Adventures of Mimi DVD

2007-11-19T00:15:00.000-05:00

Here is some audio from Mariah's new live DVD, The Adventures of Mimi. Everyone on the boards are kinda knocking Mariah for her vocal performance on this one, but I honestly think she sounds amazing! I think people just need to stop comparing her voice now to how it was in her prime because she's been singing non-stop for seventeen years now and I think she sounds pretty awesome! Can't wait to buy the DVD at Best Buy December 4th. Pick it up!

Hot Five for 11.18.07

2007-11-18T19:35:00.000-05:00

Hey everybody! Here's the five songs you NEED to be listening to this week!

1. Fergie - "Pick It Up"
This is a new song from Fergie's The Dutchess Re-Release. The song is featuring (and I'm assuming was produced by) Will.I.Am. I think they are trying to capitalize on the success of "Big Girls Don't Cry" by giving Fergie a new soft-rock song in the same vein, but even still, the song is beautiful. Very soothing and sweet!

2. Jordin Sparks (Duet with Chris Brown) - "No Air"
Okay, I know I already posted this song, but after listening to it MOSTLY non-stop for about a week, I think its up there with "Umbrella" as the best pop song of the year! Big words, I know, but the song is just SOO amazing. Lyrically, the song's metaphor works seamlessly. It's creative, unique and relatable, and I just love it. Melodically, its not as immediate as "Umbrella" (obvs, what song is?) but its just one of those songs that seeps into your head slowly and never leaves. I think its amazing!

3. Kylie Minogue - "Speakerphone"
This is a song that leaked from Kylie Minogue's upcoming album X. I think the song is pretty cool, and is very different from the rock-vibe of "2 Hearts." This song has VERY new Madonna-vibe to it and it also reminds me of something that would be on her last album Body Language. Enjoy!

4. Justin Timberlake - "SexyBack (Remix feat. Missy Elliott)"
This is a remix of Justin's 2006 hit that will appear on the re-release of his album FutureSex/LoveSounds that comes out next Tuesday, the 27th. I was initially not loving the remix, but its grown on me a bit. I love the electro-beat and everything Missy does is blazing, so it's pretty cool!

5. Leona Lewis - "Homeless"
This is one of my fave songs on Leona Lewis' album Spirit. "Homeless" reminds me a lot of Christina Aguilera's song "Hurt", but this one has more of a melody to it. It's a very dramatic song (Celine...is that you?) but her voice really shines even in the live rendition of it. Listen to the greatness!

Usher - "Dat Girl Right Der"

2007-11-11T23:01:00.000-05:00

This is supposedly Usher's new single "Dat Girl Right Der." I'm sorry, I REALLY try not to drink the haterade before writing on this blog, but this is simply NOT music. It doesn't even RESEMBLE music. It's beyond terrible. But I said the same thing about "Yeah!" when it first came out, so this'll probably be a big hit. Remind me to turn off my radio until July.

Jordin Sparks feat. Chris Brown - "No Air"

2007-11-11T22:48:00.000-05:00

Damn! Jordin Sparks just got me excited about her new album! Like, for real, I wasn't expected much because, as much as I like her, American Idol debut albums tend to be really bad (a trend that I guess is changing with Fantasia and Carrie, but whatevs) and "Tattoo" didn't really blow me away. But this new song with Chris Brown is VERY hot and a lot more youthful and edgy than I was expecting from her. And on top of it all she sounds amazing! Take a listen:

Speaking of Chris Brown, here's the UK bonus track from his latest release Exclusive called "Fallen Angel" and I have NO idea why it didn't make the cut. I even like the album overall (an opinion that I'm noticing is NOT a popular one) and this track could've easily been a single. Why this song and "Down" aren't on EVERY edition of this album, I'll never know. They SHOULD be singles.

Alicia Keys - As I Am

2007-11-11T21:12:00.000-05:00

Alicia Keys is an artist in the strictest sense of the word. I've gotta say, her album is BEYOND fantastic. Every song (sans "Where Do We Go From Here", imo) is a standout. Her voice is a bit raw on the album, but it always works well to convey the emotion of her songs. The R&B/Rock style really suits her...she and John Mayer meld beautifully on "Lessons Learned," and the Linda Perry-produced "The Thing About Love" is actually unbelievable. I honestly think "Love" is Perry's best work since Christina Aguilera's "Beautiful." I think "I Need You" is my personal favorite because lyrically and melodically its very eccentric, but works incredibly well. Honestly, you just need to buy the album ASAP cuz it's a masterpiece---her best work yet in my opinion.

Spice Girls - "Voodoo"

2007-11-04T03:06:00.000-05:00

ALRIGHT! This is a LOT closer to what I want to hear out of the Spice Girls than "Headlines." This is the other song they recorded for their Greatest Hits and it's REALLY fun. I don't LOVE the chorus to the song, but the vibe is positive, upbeat, and poppy so it's okay. And how many songs are going to be as good as Say You'll Be There anyways?? Not many.

But the verses are GREAT (love the robotic effects on their voices) and the song is a lot fun! Take a listen!

Jordin Sparks - "Tatoo" Video & Album Cover

2007-11-04T00:31:00.000-04:00

Here's the video for Jordin Sparks' "Irreplaceable" knock-off "Tattoo." The video is okay. Non-descript. Nothing unusual for an American Idol winner's first video. And the song is also as safe as can be, but apparently is gaining momentum on radio, so that's good. Here's her album cover:

Not at all offensive, also pretty boring. But, honestly, no matter how plain/boring this all may look, I REALLY liked this girl on Idol so I hope her album does well! I'm sure it'll be better than Katharine McPhee's wack CD though, so that's a plus.

Mariah Carey - The Adventures of Mimi Tour DVD Preview

2007-11-03T13:11:00.003-04:00

Here is Mariah Carey's performance of "It's Like That" from her upcoming Adventures of Mimi Tour DVD. She looks and sounds great and I really can't wait to see the whole thing! I went to see Mariah in Atlanta that summer and I have to say that she was UNBELIEVABLE so my expectations are pretty high!

The DVD is set to be released November 20th in several countries, but I'm not sure if there's a set U.S. release date yet.

Chris Brown's album is HOT!

2007-11-03T03:40:00.000-04:00

Wow! I'm really surpised! I like this kid, and I think he is an amazing performer, but after his first CD I really wasn't expecting his new one to be THIS good! It's weird because "Wall to Wall" is probably my least favorite track...he REALLY brought it with this one. I'm not really as into R&B today as I was growing up just because of the lack of melody in a lot of it, but this record really takes me back. Really great work from Mr. Brown.

Below are some of my favorites off his CD. "Take You Down" is reminiscent of J. Holiday's "Bed" to the point where I'm thinking it might be written by The-Dream as well. I thought The-Dream's reasoning about not giving Chris "Bed" was because it was so sexual, but this one is right up there with it! With lines like "It ain't my first time, but baby girl we can pretend/Let's bump and grind girl, tonight will never end," its pretty clear Chris is all grown up. The song's electric guitar wails give the song a soulful feel, and the track is overall very lush. Great song.

"Hold Up" sounds like it was borrowed from R. Kelly and "Help Me" sounds like it belongs on Beyoncé's B'Day with it's repetitive, rapid-fire chorus. We already heard most of "I'll Call Ya", "You" is CLEARLY a The-Dream original (eh eh eh), and check out the 4 Non Blondes sample in "Down" with Kanye. Enjoy!

Spice Girls - "Headlines" Video

2007-11-03T02:47:00.000-04:00

The video for the new Spice Girls single "Headlines (Friendship Never Ends)." They all look gorgeous, especially Geri, but I still think the video is a little bit boring...I guess to match the song. The only part that really throws me off is when Geri is just writhing against a wall in her bra and its like...this is a ballad. There are chandeliers everywhere. Why are you doing that?!

But yeah, again, the videos alright. It's nice to see them all in the same room again. I just wish they would've interacted more in the video.

Click here to see the video.

New CD Covers!

2007-11-03T02:31:00.000-04:00

Um...well that's an...interesting choice. This is the cover for Bow Wow & Omarion's album together, and even though I think it's a cool idea, this cover is not. It just freaks me out. It gives me Terminator 2 vibes and just seems very....lopsided. I dunno, doesn't work for me.

Mary J. Blige's album cover looks HEAPS better, obviously, so that's good. But I dunno, I definitely enjoy her music, but I'm never really excited about a new release from her. I always love when she puts out great music like "No More Drama" and "Be Without You", but her albums (sans the near-perfect My Life) never really blow me away. Maybe this one will prove my wrong but judging from her first single, I wouldn't count on it.

Wyclef Jean - "Sweetest Girl (Dolla Bill)" Video

2007-11-01T01:08:00.001-04:00

This song is really REALLY great and not at all new I don't think but you should really see it. The video is alright, but Wyclef, Lil' Wayne, and Akon have made an incredible, important song. It kind of reminds me of that City High song that was out in Jr. High, but I think this song is less cheesy and deserves lots of success! Enjoy!

Chris Brown - Exclusive

2007-10-30T21:26:00.000-04:00

Click here to listen to Chris Brown's new album Exclusive.

Leona Lewis Album Preview

2007-10-29T21:05:00.000-04:00

I admit I've been a bit obsessed with Leona as of late, but her song is SO good, and I really want her album to live up to the single. So a couple of songs have leaked off her album and the first one, and my favorite one, is called "Angel." "Angel" is the rumored second single off her upcoming album Spirit. The song was produced by Stargate so *shock* it sounds like "Irreplaceable." But this song DOES disprove my Chris Brown - With You theory. This song is as sweet and pretty lyrically as the music would suggest, but it still works, and I think it is because the song itself is SO strong. The song is so melodic and relatable, and I can't wait to hear the full thing in HQ (the song cuts off near the end, sorry). Take a listen:

The other two leaked tracks I haven't listened to as much, but they're called "Footprints in the Sand" and "Homeless."

And if you are hankering for even MORE Leona, take a look at her official album preview which I must say sounds GREAT, but i'm praying there are some upbeat tracks cuz so far its all ballads. Click here to listen.

Nicole Scherzinger - AOL Sessions

2007-10-29T20:25:00.000-04:00

I've held off on putting up any Nicole Scherzinger news because I've been very disappointed in the songs I've heard from her so far. The first single "Whatever U Like" was a bit bizarre for my taste, and I actively dislike her new one "Baby Love." It's not even that the song is terrible, but her voice is SO grating on that one I can't even listen to it. And I liked her in Pussycat Dolls. Even in Eden's Crush (I hope you all remember the greatness of "Get Over Yourself (Goodbye)") she sounded good. I don't know what happened honestly, but I've been hoping her album is hotter than her singles so far.

And, luckily, after hearing her AOL Sessions I'm less worried about her album. Firstly, she performed "Super Villian", the only leaked track that I think is hot, and she performed the Ne-Yo-penned track "Happily Never After" which is pretty okay. Less offensive than the others definitely.

Click here to watch for yourself.

Alicia Keys Album Preview

2007-10-27T14:45:00.000-04:00

Here is a preview of Alicia Keys' upcoming album As I Am. I think it sounds great and I can't wait to buy it! My faves (based on the clips alone) are "I Need You", "Teenage Love Affair", and "The Thing About Love" which she performed live at Fashion Rocks this year, and is amazing! Even with Mariah's album getting pushed back, it seems like I still have an album to look forward to in '07!

Credits to Alicia-Keys.net for the album preview.

The Hot Five - 10.27.07

2007-10-27T11:55:00.000-04:00

Hey guys! Here are the five songs you NEED to be listening to this week:

1. Alicia Keys - Like You'll Never See Me Again

Wow - this song is NOTHING short of incredible!! I think this entire era is going to be really good to her, because this song and "No One" are some of the strongest songs she's released. It might not be her hookiest work, but the musicianship and the emotion more than make up for it.

I'll admit, I had to listen to this song a couple of times to really get into it, but I am seriously in love with it now. Like Justin & Beyoncé's "Until The End of Time", the Prince influence is fairly obvious, but I can imagine a lot WORSE things than sounding like Prince. Please listen to this song, and if her album can live up to these first few singles, I'll be REALLY impressed. I always liked her singles, but her albums never really felt consistent to me, but I have a feeling As I Am will change my mind.

2. Kylie Minogue - 2 Hearts

This is Kylie Minogue's first single from her upcoming album X. This is her first single since her battle with cancer, and X will be her first studio album since 2003's Body Language. The song is quite a departure for the "Can't Get You Outta My Head" singer, as she trades in electro-dance for jangly alt-rock, but it definitely works. She is just as convincing with a pounding piano and live drums as she ever was with a disco beat, and the song is simple, fresh, and catchy. I feel like this is the reinvention Madonna should be making right now, because the hip-hop inspired demos I've heard from her upcoming album seem lackluster to me.

3. OneRepublic - All We Are

This is another song from Timbaland collaborators OneRepublic. This song is a lot less hip-hop influenced than their current single with Timbaland ("Apologize"), so I assume their album will be more along these lines. I'd like to thank Rhea for making me download this because it actually is very good. Their album Dreaming Out Loud hits stores November 20th.

4. Britney Spears - Freakshow

Of course we had to have Britney on the Hot Five because, even though I'm still working on my review, we all know by now that her album is HOT. It was hard for me to choose between two of my fave tracks (this one and "Toy Soldier") but I picked this one because it has been CONSISTENTLY stuck in my head since the album leaked. The song is soo catchy and has so much energy (like her whole album), and I really hope this one gets released! I really like the pitch shifting of her vocals, and the Fergie-esque rapping on this one is hot!

5. Leona Lewis - Forgiveness

I've been on a definite Leona Lewis kick since "Bleeding Love" and especially the live performance I posted Wednesday. This song is the B-Side to "Bleeding Love" and it's not yet known if it'll be on her debut album Spirit, but the song is pretty good. It reminds me of Stripped-era Christina Aguilera--soulful but poppy. It's a nice one.

Spice Girls - "Headlines (Friendship Never Ends)"

2007-10-24T22:53:00.000-04:00

This is the new Spice Girls single "Headlines (Friendship Never Ends)", and as pumpt as I am for their reunion, this song isn't great. It's actually got some good points.

A) It's obvious at first listen that this is a Spice Girls song, which is good. No one wants to hear the Spice Girls try to be crunk or Fergie-rap or anything.

B) The little snare drum marching band thing is kind of cool...
and....that's it.

Maybe its because I'm already tired, but this song is definitely not helping. Honestly, who wants to hear a Spice Girls BALLAD (excluding the impeccable "2 Become 1" obviously...and "Too Much" too)?!?!?!?!?! We remember u for Zig-ah-zig-AH, "Say You'll Be There", effing "STOP"! They could've honestly re-released "Stop" with a new video and I'd be happy cuz that song is perfect.

Anyways here's the song. It's fine.

Chris Brown - "With You"

2007-10-24T22:28:00.000-04:00

I posted a clip of this song a couple of days ago, and I found the full version. This song is from Chris Brown's upcoming album Exclusive, and now that I hear the full song, I think I like it a little less. Sure its nice, sweet, and easy to listen to, but its a little blah for my tastes. It doesn't seem to really go anywhere.

I think what made "Irreplaceable" so successful is the inSANE amount of attitude oozing from the lyric combined with the sweet backdrop. She spit on the guitar-centric track with a rapper's swagger, and all the rehashes have been a little too sweet. If there's no contrast between the lyric and the music, it just seems generic and tired...I dunno.

I really don't hate the song as much it sounds like I do--it really is fine. But not great.

Leona Lewis - "Bleeding Love" Live

2007-10-24T22:16:00.000-04:00

Leona returned to the X-Factor stage this week to perform her new single "Bleeding Love" and she KILLED it!! Not that I expected anything less, seeing as she got famous by winning a singing competition, but she REALLY impressed me with this one! The control in her upper register is rarely seen in artists these days, and she sounded a lot more passionate than she used to when she was competing on X-Factor just a year ago.

I hear she is set to top the UK charts this week with over 250,000 copies of her single sold first week. Congrats to Leona--she deserves it!

Listen to Britney's BLACKOUT now!!!

2007-10-22T19:55:00.000-04:00

I haven't really had a chance to listen to it yet, but I'm pumpt! Tell me your thoughts and I'll give my official review soon! Finally!!

Writaz Ternt Singaz

2007-10-20T18:47:00.000-04:00

Sorry for the T-Pain reference, but I've found quite a few mp3s from talented songwriters making their transition to being artists themselves, and some of them are kinda sorta mostly good!

First up is The-Dream, writer of Rihanna's hit "Umbrella."

He is coming out with his album LoveHate in December. You've probably already heard his first single "Shawty is a 10", and a couple of other songs off his album have leaked.

"She Needs My Love" is the only leaked track that's worth mentioning. The issue with The-Dream is he can't actually sing...but if T-Pain and Akon have taught us anything, that doesn't matter. The verses on this one are kind of weird for my liking, but this guy knows how to make an EPIC chorus. The lift in this song is just incredible and really unique...and makes me excited to hear what he comes up with for Usher, Mariah, and Janet. Take a listen below:

Next up is Johnta Austin, co-wroter of Mariah Carey's hits "Don't Forget About Us" and "We Belong Together."

His song "The One That Got Away" is pretty reminiscent of Mariah's hits. Its more guitar-driven than those songs, but lyrically very similar. His girlfriend left him, he misses her blah blah blah...BUT the good news is he can sing!! Johnta was featured on the JD Track "Gotta Getcha", and I hear his album is supposedly called Ocean Drive. So far I don't love the song...its DEFINITELY not catchy enough to be his first single, but it does makes me want to hear more of his album.

And lastly we got Sean Garrett, writer of Usher's "Yeah", co-writer of Beyoncé's "Get Me Bodied", and many others.

He's not exactly recording an album--well, actually I think he is, but this isn't from that. This is a demo of Sean singing a song he wrote for Britney's new album Blackout called "Toy Soldier." From what I hear it sounds pretty cool! Very aggressive for Britney, but definitely hott! I wonder what his album is going to be like...that should be interesting.

Speaking of Britney, 30 sec. clips of her new album have leaked onto the internet. Click here to listen.

From what I can tell, I still think the album sounds hott! Her new vocals on "Hot as Ice" (aka Cold As Fire) are SOO much better, "Piece of Me" sounds gr8 in high quality, and both "Freakshow" and "Toy Soldier" sound mad cool! This might be my favorite Britney album judging from the clips--but it'll take a lot to be better than In The Zone, so we'll see. I just want the whole thing to leak!!! Here's a longer clip of "Piece of Me" to tide you over:

Chris Brown - Exclusive Preview

2007-10-20T00:15:00.000-04:00

Chris Brown is coming out with his new album Exclusive on November 6th. I'm not a fan of his first single "Wall to Wall" and his new single "Kiss Kiss" with T-Pain is in the process, but I've come upon two snippets of two new songs of his that have the potential to be VERY good.

First is the Stargate-produced "With You." Sure, we're all fairly sick of the "Irreplaceable" rehashes (Jordin Sparks "Tattoo", Elliott Yamin "One Word", Ne-Yo "Go On Girl"--I'm talking to you), but I gotta say this one sounds really good so far! It fits his voice very well, and is a much softer sound than we're used to hearing from Chris. I believe this is going to be a single for him down the line--I believe he's actually already shot the video. Take a listen to the clip below:

Second is the Swizz Beatz-produced "I'll Call You" which is less immediate but still fairly catchy and cool (and encouraging my suspicion that Swizz Beatz can do no wrong). I think its his focus on off-beats that I like so much, but Swizzy has also toned down the screams/yelps so maybe it could be played on the radio (Cuz that's honestly the only reason I can think of as to why "Now That You Got It" and "Get Me Bodied" weren't monstrous hits):

Nelly - "Wadsyaname" Video

2007-10-19T03:35:00.000-04:00

I'm not the biggest fan of Nelly (especially after that HORRENDOUS duet with Tim McGraw) but I ACTUALLY like this song. Maybe its the RIDICULOUS sample of K-Ci & Jojo's "All My Life" (my personal Jr. High slow dance anthem), but something about this song I like. Its like an uptempo "Dilemma" minus Kelly Rowland. And how random are the dancer girls? Necessary? Absolutely not. Amazing? No question.

Janet Jackson on Ellen

2007-10-18T14:36:00.000-04:00

Here's Janet on Ellen yesterday! It was a very cute interview, and she looks BEAUTIFUL for her age. I actually don't understand how she still looks so good but whatever she's doing, she should keep it up. Ellen actually gives Janet her watch in this interview, which is pretty funny!

P.S. - I'm still VERY hurt by the Mariah album news, gotta say. But I hear she's working a movie with Adam Sandler....so that's cool...right? Ugh.