By: T. Phillips

Whatever Happened to Tweet? The Evolution of an R&B Powerhouse

The dawn of the 2000s brought with it a refreshing gust of R&B artists. Among them, the sultry and unmistakable voice of Tweet stood out. But where did she vanish after delivering one of the era’s most defining hits?

The Anthem that Shook the Charts

“Oops (Oh My)” wasn’t just a song; it was a movement. Featuring Missy Elliott, this track was more than catchy. It was a celebration of self-love, confidence, and womanhood. Its infectious beats combined with its empowering lyrics to dominate both the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and the Billboard Hot 100. Many still recall the first time they heard the chorus, an instant earworm that was replayed on radios, clubs, and personal mixtapes.

From Sultry to Soulful

Following the meteoric success of “Oops (Oh My)”, Tweet showcased her versatility. Venturing into more melodic and soulful territories, her songs began to resonate on a deeper emotional level. “Call Me” and “Smoking Cigarettes” are classic examples. Her ballads, dripping with emotion, showcased her ability to connect with listeners on a more intimate level.

Her second album, “It’s Me Again,” offered a fusion of her signature sultry style with heartfelt ballads. Songs like “Turn da Lights Off” showcased her evolving artistry, blending the best of both worlds.

Balancing Act

Tweet’s journey wasn’t just about creating major hits. She beautifully balanced between her upbeat tracks and ballads. This allowed her to reach a wider audience, from those looking to groove to her beats to others seeking solace in her soothing melodies.

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The Later Years and Charlene’s Arrival

After a noticeable hiatus, Tweet returned with “Charlene,” an album that highlighted her maturity both as a person and an artist. Tracks like “Magic” and “Neva Shouda Left Ya” are testament to her refined musical prowess, capturing both the upbeat vibe and the balladic charm she’s loved for.

Final Thoughts

Tweet’s musical journey has seen soaring highs and introspective moments. From delivering one of the most iconic hits of the 2000s to touching souls with her ballads, her evolution has been nothing short of inspiring. Today, while many fans eagerly await more melodies from this R&B gem, her past tracks continue to resonate, ensuring her legacy in the music world remains undiminished.

Best of Tweet Playlist

“Oops (Oh My)” feat. Missy Elliott

The iconic anthem that celebrated self-worth and sensuality.

“Call Me”

A melodic call to a loved one, showcasing her vocal prowess.

“Smoking Cigarettes”

A soulful ballad reflecting on the aftermath of a passionate relationship.

“Turn da Lights Off” feat. Missy Elliott

A sultry track blending Tweet’s distinctive style with a touch of Marvin Gaye.

“Magic” from Charlene

A testament to her maturity and the magic of love.

“Neva Shouda Left Ya”

A catchy tune filled with regret and the longing of love lost.

“Boogie 2nite”

An upbeat dance track that’s perfect for any night out.

“Thugman”

A unique blend of R&B with a hint of hip-hop flair.

“Beautiful” from Southern Hummingbird

A heartfelt ballad about the depths of love.

“I’m Done” from It’s Me Again

A song about realization and the end of a relationship, echoing strength and independence.

This playlist captures the essence of Tweet’s versatility, from her chart-topping hits to the deep ballads that showcase her vocal strength and emotional depth. Perfect for a nostalgic trip down memory lane or for newcomers wanting to explore her musical journey. The music world remains undiminished.

By: T. Phillips

Amil: The Enigmatic Voice Behind Roc-a-Fella’s Anthems

In the heyday of Roc-a-Fella Records, while Jay-Z’s lyrical prowess was indisputable, there was another voice that left an indelible mark on the era – Amil. Her signature soft-yet-raspy tone was the unmistakable backdrop to some of Jay-Z’s most iconic tracks.

A Star is Born

Amil’s grand entrance into the world of mainstream hip-hop was anything but ordinary. Tracks like “Do It Again (Put Ya Hands Up),” “Jigga What, Jigga Who,” and “Can I Get A…” showcased her unparalleled style. Each of these became anthems, and her collaboration with a young Ja Rule and Jay-Z made waves in the music industry.

Her solo venture, “All Money is Legal” in 2000, was a testament to her potential as a stand-alone artist. The lead single “I Got That,” featuring the then-rising star, Beyoncé, was not just a testament to her potential but also to the respect she commanded within the industry.

The Mysterious Fade

However, just when it seemed like Amil was on a trajectory toward sustained stardom, her spotlight started to dim. Fans often wondered about this sudden shift, especially considering her evident talent.

Years later, Amil opened up about her struggles in a 2014 interview with VIBE. The core of her withdrawal was personal: “I wasn’t there mentally. I was in my own world,” she confessed. The industry’s rigors, combined with the responsibilities of motherhood and her son’s asthma, compelled her to prioritize personal well-being over the allure of fame.

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By 2018, Amil hinted at some issues with Roc-a-Fella, including a surprising revelation about body image pressures in the industry. She candidly discussed gaining weight after her debut video and how it might’ve affected her standing at the label.

Furthermore, her evolving relationship with Jay-Z became evident when she revealed the complexities of navigating label dynamics, further emphasizing the challenges she faced.

Legacy and Looking Forward

Despite her hiatus and the challenges she faced, Amil’s impact on the Roc-a-Fella era remains undeniable. Her brief yet powerful stint in the industry showcased her unique style, ensuring she remains etched in the memories of true hip-hop aficionados.

As for what the future holds, while Amil released a single, “Remember,” in 2014, fans are still hopeful for a full-fledged return. Given her talent and the ever-evolving music industry, it’s entirely possible that Amil could once again grace us with her distinctive voice.

Playlist: Reliving Amil’s Classics

1. “Do It Again (Put Ya Hands Up)” – Jay-Z ft. Amil & Beanie Sigel

2. “Jigga What, Jigga Who” – Jay-Z ft. Amil & Big Jaz

3. “Can I Get A…” – Jay-Z ft. Amil & Ja Rule

4. “I Got That” – Amil ft. Beyoncé

5. “4 Da Fam” – Amil ft. Jay-Z, Memphis Bleek, & Beanie Sigel

6. “Remember” – Amil

Stream these tracks to journey back to the golden era of Roc-a-Fella Records and immerse yourself in Amil’s unforgettable contributions to hip-hop.

Danish soul & neo-soul music pioneer JONAS celebrates his 50th birthday with the brand new full-lentgh album “BE THE LIGHT”

With more than 25 years on the scene, JONAS has earned his well-deserved respect and recognition, having made an impact with his music – in both Scandinavia and various parts of the World. As he has shared studio and/or stage moments with the likes of OMAR, JOHN LEGEND, BILAL, MACY GRAY, JOSS STONE, LYNDEN DAVID HALL and many others, it is no wonder media around the World have dubbed JONAS the “GODFATHER OF SCANDINAVIAN SOUL”. The validation of some of these accomplishments, was given to him as ARTIST OF THE YEAR, at the SCANDINAVIAN SOUL MUSIC AWARDS in 2015. 

JONAS’ last full-length album was the danish “FØRST TIL SIDST”, from 2015. But he has been consistent with releasing EPs and albums – as an artist, and also as a songwriter and producer for others – like SWEATSHOP, PEOPLE ON THE HILL, JONAS WINGE LEISNER and SIGNE ANNA.

During the pandemic lockdown JONAS produced and released the 2 EP’s “4WARD FAST TO FUTURE” and “ALL SYSTEMS GO”. As he has always been used to creating and writing with other artists and musicians, this was a new untravelled path – working alone, or with others remotely. But JONAS always loved working with dogmas. The restrictions sometimes opens up new opportunities and different approaches. JONAS liked his new found way of working so much, that he decided to do a whole album in the same way.

A good portion of the songs on the new album “BE THE LIGHT” are written with other artists, or features perfomances from favorite fellow musicians, but the majority of the writing, the instruments played, programming, production and mixing, is done by JONAS. 

A few songs deal with the state of the world, and how we are gradually becoming more and more divided. The album title “BE THE LIGHT”, is promoting the idea of being the change you want to see in the world. To lead by example. To choose good. To try to be the best version of yourself. 

FOCUS-TRACK: Turn Down The Noise

Private SoundCloud link to album: https://on.soundcloud.com/kTYjL

Pre-Save link to album: https://jonas.lnk.to/light

Birthday and album release: https://fb.me/e/1fiAuRO0p

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonasoul/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063444406270 

Bandcamp: https://jonasrendbo.bandcamp.com/ 

Website: https://www.jonasmusic.dk/

Chronicles of the Revolutionary Rhymers

Laying the foundation for a powerful fusion of conscious hip-hop with a soulful R&B essence, Brand Nubian emerged as one of hip-hop’s unparalleled heavyweights. Hailing from New York, this iconic group not only created anthems but also painted an entire tapestry of the culture, society, and life during their era.

The Nubian Legacy

Brand Nubian’s narrative has always been about more than just music. Their artistry struck chords, creating a harmonious blend of impactful messaging and head-nodding beats. Their versatility allowed them to be both street poets and socio-political commentators, asserting an unshakeable position in the annals of hip-hop.

Solo Flares and Collaborative Triumphs

Though united as Brand Nubian, each member illuminated the rap scene with individual brilliance:

Grand Puba: With a voice that’s as distinctive as his lyrical prowess, Grand Puba was indeed a force. His 1995 solo album, “2000”, remains one of the decade’s quintessential works. Marrying beats from esteemed producers with his signature smooth and insightful delivery, Puba crafted classics that still resonate today. In tracks like “I Like It,” Puba showcased a seamless blend of hip-hop authenticity and mainstream appeal.

Sadat X: Sadat’s signature voice, paired with his insightful and often introspective lyrics, made him a standout. Diving deep into solo waters, Sadat produced gems that are revered by hip-hop aficionados. His recent collaborations, including those with Sun Gin and Ben Shorr, affirm his continued relevance and influence in the genre.

Lord Jamar: Beyond his impactful lyrics, Jamar ventured into the world of acting. Showcasing his thespian talents, His artistic flair led him to the screens with a notable performance in the drama series ‘Oz’.. He also graced productions from “The Sopranos” to “The Last O.G.”, proving that his artistry knows no bounds.

Tribute to a Legend

In 2021, the hip-hop community mourned the loss of DJ Stud Doogie. His contributions to the genre, especially his collaborations with Brand Nubian, are timeless testaments to his unparalleled skill and passion. A pioneer in every sense, Stud Doogie’s legacy is forever etched in the annals of hip-hop history.

Closing Thoughts

Brand Nubian, with its members’ multifaceted talents, has crafted a legacy that transcends time. They embody the essence of hip-hop – a blend of raw authenticity, profound insights, and unforgettable rhythms. Celebrating their journey is not just about looking back at their discography, but understanding the indelible mark they’ve left on culture and society. As Grand Puba rightly professed, “Step to the realm where the real brothers dwell,” and indeed, Brand Nubian has given us a realm to cherish forever.

Ultimate Brand Nubian & Solo/Collab Hits Playlist:

Brand Nubian Classics:

“Slow Down” – Brand Nubian’s warning against the pitfalls of a fast-paced life.

“All for One” – An anthem that encapsulated the unity of the group.

“Wake Up” – A powerful call to societal awareness.

“Punks Jump up to Get Beat Down” – An aggressive and iconic hit from their discography.

“Don’t Let It Go to Your Head” – A soulful tune with an unforgettable hook.

Grand Puba’s Shining Moments:

“360 (What Goes Around)” – Grand Puba’s swanky, smooth single from his debut album.

“I Like It” – Perhaps one of Puba’s most recognized hits, capturing the essence of 90s hip-hop.

“Check It Out” ft. Mary J. Blige – A collaboration with the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul, this track is a testimony to Puba’s versatility.

Sadat X’s Lyrically Potent Tracks:

“The Lump Lump (Nubian Mix)” ft. Grand Puba & Lord Jamar – A reunion of sorts that fans of Brand Nubian will cherish.

“Hang ‘Em High” – Sadat X’s gritty storytelling skills shine in this one.

Lord Jamar’s Thought-Provoking Sounds:

“The Corner, The Streets” ft. Grand Puba – A reflective track featuring the distinct voices of Jamar and Puba.

“Deep Space” ft. RZA – Lord Jamar teams up with the Wu-Tang Clan’s RZA for this hypnotic beat.

Collabs and Features:

“Come On” by Notorious B.I.G. ft. Sadat X – A combination of Biggie’s storytelling and Sadat’s unique flow.

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This playlist captures not only the essence of Brand Nubian’s group dynamics but also the individual prowess and versatility of its members. Whether you’re reminiscing about the golden era of hip-hop or discovering these legends for the first time, this playlist is bound to leave an impression. Enjoy the vibes!

By: TR Phillips

Audio Two, the legendary hip-hop duo comprised of Milk Dee and Gizmo, left a lasting impression on
the genre with their hit single “Top Billin’” released in 1987. The beat for “Top Billin’” was a collaborative
effort between Audio Two and Stetsasonic’s Daddy-O, and its creation was a result of a happy accident.
Daddy-O was playing around with the sampler and hit the wrong keys, leading to the formation of the
now famous stuttering style beat.
The construction of the beat for “Top Billin’” is highly influential, as it samples the break beat from The
Honey Dripper’s “Impeach the President”, another widely sampled track in the hip-hop world. The beat
has been used in numerous hip-hop tracks over the years, making it a staple in the genre. Its impact can
be compared to that of “Funky Drummer”, another highly influential sample in hip-hop.
When analyzing the beat for “Top Billin’”, its use of stuttering style production and the incorporation of
a sample from “Impeach the President” set it apart from other beats in hip-hop. This combination of
elements gives the beat its unique energy, making it stand out from other tracks.
Audio Two’s “Top Billin’” beat is a standout in the hip-hop world, with its stuttering style production and
incorporation of a sample from “Impeach the President”. It has become a staple in the genre and its
influence can be heard in many popular tracks over the years. To honor the impact of the beat, here is a
playlist of songs that sample “Top Billin’”:
Audio Two – Top Billin’
MC Lyte – “10% Dis”
Jay-Z and Kanye West – “Otis”
LL Cool J – “Doin’ It”
50 Cent – “I Get Money”
Mary J. Blige – “Real Love”

By: TR Phillips

This article is the second in a series exploring the DJ equipment. Entry-level DJ controllers have become increasingly popular for novice or aspiring DJs, especially those seeking maximum portability. Our top recommendation for an entry-level controller is the Pioneer DDJ-SB3, Pioneer DDJ-Rev1, which is compatible with Serato software, but there are other alternatives, such as the Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3, that may be a better fit for some.

As DJ technology has evolved, controllers have replaced record players and crossfader/mixers. Most controllers have two platters and a built-in mixer, with the exception of a few non-motorized pseudo turntables.

Serato is one of the most popular software options for DJs, offering user-friendly interfaces and a wide range of features. Most entry-level controllers come with Serato DJ Lite, which is a free software option. For more advanced features, Serato DJ Pro is a paid version that is compatible with a wider range of controllers. Other software options available include Traktor, Rekordbox, and Virtual DJ, each with unique features and pricing options to suit different needs and budgets. However, there are other software options available, such as Traktor, Rekordbox, Virtual DJ, and more. Each has unique features and pricing options, making it easier to find the perfect fit for your specific needs and budget.

Now, let’s discuss some of the other entry-level controllers available on the market:

• Numark Mixtrack Pro 3: This controller has similar features to the SB3, including two jog wheels, a built-in mixer, and eight performance pads, but at a lower price point.
• Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300: This controller has features such as beatmatching assistance, tempo control, and a built-in sound card.
• Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 Mk3: This controller is a good choice for those who prefer the Traktor software. It has two jog wheels, a built-in mixer, and effects controls, making it a versatile option for beginner DJs.
• Denon DJ MC4000: This controller has a more professional feel, with a metal chassis and higher-quality faders and knobs. It has features such as four decks, dedicated hot cue and sample pads, and balanced XLR outputs.
• Reloop Mixtour: This controller is one of the most portable options available, with a slim design that can fit in a backpack. It has two jog wheels, a built-in mixer, and eight performance pads.

By now you probably realize I’m a Pioneer fan and they do not disappoint in the entry level tier.

• The Pioneer DDJ-400 is an entry-level DJ controller that is perfect for beginner DJs. It has a familiar layout that mimics that of a professional DJ setup, with two channels, a mixer, and jog wheels. The DDJ-400 is compatible with Rekordbox software and comes with a free license key, making it an affordable way to start DJing.
• The Pioneer DDJ-Rev1 is a high-end controller for professional DJs, featuring a touch-sensitive full-sized jog wheel to easily control the speed and pitch of tracks. It has a built-in mixer with multiple inputs and outputs for easy connectivity to other equipment. Other features include performance pads to add various effects and slip mode to manipulate music without interrupting the beat. The DDJ-Rev1 is compatible with multiple software programs, including Serato DJ Pro and Rekordbox.
• Pioneer DDJ-SB3: The Pioneer DDJ-SB3 is an entry-level DJ controller with two channels, touch-sensitive jog wheels, and a built-in mixer. It features a pad scratch function for adding scratch effects to your tracks, FX fade feature for applying various effects while crossfading, and high/low-pass filter for manipulating sound. The DDJ-SB3 is compatible with Serato DJ Lite software, making it a great option for those who want to use Serato.

Entry-level DJ controllers are a great way for novice or aspiring DJs to get started with DJing. We hope this guide has provided valuable insights into the different entry-level DJ controllers available for novice or aspiring DJs who want maximum portability. Stay tuned for part 3 of the series, where we’ll explore middle-tier DJ controllers, including the Roland DJ-505, Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX, and Pioneer DDJ-SX3, DDJ-800.

By: Torrence Phillips

The Fat Boys, consisting of Prince Markie Dee, Kool Rock Ski, and Buffy, were one of the most influential hip-hop groups to emerge in the early 1980s. With their larger-than-life personalities, humor-infused lyrics, and innovative approach to rap, they helped to popularize the genre and bring it into the mainstream consciousness.

Their contemporaries and peers in the early days of hip-hop include other legendary acts such as Run-DMC, LL Cool J, and The Beastie Boys. These artists all helped to shape the genre and bring it to new heights, but the Fat Boys left a unique mark on hip-hop with their lighthearted and playful style.

In their earliest days, the Fat Boys were known as the Disco Three, and Kool Rock and Prince Markie Dee gained recognition for their impressive flow over Buff’s groundbreaking beatboxing skills. In the early 1980s, they made the transition from the Disco Three to the Fat Boys, adopting a more playful and lighthearted approach to hip-hop. The name “Fat Boys” was a tongue-in-cheek reference to the fact they were big boys, and they embraced the moniker as a way of standing out in a genre that was still in its infancy.

Prince Markie Dee was known for his clever wordplay and storytelling ability, and he quickly established himself as one of the premier lyricists in the hip-hop community. He was responsible for writing many of the Fat Boys’ biggest hits, including “The Fat Boys Are Back,” “Human Beat Box,” “Jail House Rap,” “Can You Feel It,” and “The Twist (Yo, Twist),” to name just a few. He was also a talented producer, working on many of the group’s albums and helping to shape their sound.

Despite the group’s reputation for being comedic and lighthearted, the Fat Boys were not considered a novelty act by the hip-hop community. Despite their playful and lighthearted approach to rap, they were taken seriously by audiences and other artists in the genre. Their music was well-received and their influence on hip-hop was undeniable. They helped to popularize the style and bring it into the mainstream consciousness, and their innovative approach to rap and embrace of the hip-hop lifestyle further solidified their place in hip-hop history.

After the Fat Boys disbanded in the late 1990s, Prince Markie Dee continued to work in the music industry, both as a solo artist and as a producer. He released several solo albums, including “Free” in 1991 and “Love Daddy” in 1994. He also continued to work as a radio personality, most notably on Hot 105 FM, where he was a popular voice on the radio waves.

As a producer, Prince Markie Dee worked with some of the biggest names in hip-hop and R&B, including Mary J. Blige, The Notorious B.I.G., and Mariah Carey, among others. He was known for his ability to blend different genres of music and bring a unique, soulful sound to the tracks he produced. He also continued to work with his former Fat Boys bandmates, and the group released several reunion albums throughout the years.

Tragically, Prince Markie Dee passed away in February of 2021, leaving behind a legacy that continues to endure. Despite his untimely death, his impact on hip-hop and the music industry as a whole remains undeniable. He was a talented rapper, producer, and radio personality, and his contributions to the Fat Boys and the hip-hop genre as a whole will always be remembered and celebrated.

Post Fat Boys, Prince Markie D gained hip hop attention as a producer on Mary J Blige’s debut album and as a writer of Real Love, forever cemented his name in hip hop/r&b lore.  He also produced and wrote “If You Had My Love” by Jennifer Lopez, and “I Need to Be in Love” by Mariah Carey. Some of his notable post-Fat Boys productions include “Let the Beat Hit ‘Em” by Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam, “Jump” by Kriss Kross, and “What’cha Gonna Do with My Lovin'” by Stephanie Mills.

Kool Rock Ski also continued to release music as a solo artist and collaborated with various artists in the industry. He produced and wrote songs for artists like Salt-N-Pepa, Ice-T, and LL Cool J. Some of his notable post-Fat Boys productions include “Push It” by Salt-N-Pepa, “I’m Your Pusher” by Ice-T, and “I Need Love” by LL Cool J.

Four months ago, Kool Rock Ski shares some of his institutional knowledge on Sway Universe.

By: Torrence Phillips

Yo, let’s talk about the one and only Monie Love, the Queen of UK Hip Hop. Back in the day, Monie was killin’ the game with her smooth flow and conscious lyrics, she was known for her hit tracks like “It’s a Shame (My Sister)” and “Monie in the Middle”. She was also featured on numerous tracks with some of the biggest names in Hip Hop including Queen Latifah, A Tribe Called Quest, and De La Soul.

Now, let me tell you, Monie has got a story with the Purple One himself, Prince. Apparently, they met at a recording studio in LA and Monie was shy as hell, but Prince was feeling her flow and asked her to freestyle for him on the spot. And let me tell you, Monie delivered! Prince was so impressed that he asked her to perform with him that night. That’s right, Monie Love rocked the stage with Prince, now that’s a moment to remember!

But you might be surprised to know that Monie Love has been keeping busy, even these days. She’s still got the fire in her belly and continues to be a powerful voice in Hip Hop. Currently, she’s hosting her own radio show blessin’ the airwaves for the folks tuning in to KISS 104.1 in Atlanta, Georgia. She spit that real talk, plays all the hottest tracks, and keeps the listeners entertained with her smooth flow and fly personalities. She’s a true OG in the game, still killin’ it and representin’ for all the Hip-Hop heads out there.and working on new music. And you know what, she’s she also hit the road with some of her fellow female Hip Hop pioneers for a tour called “Ladies First”. The tour included MC Lyte, Salt-N-Pepa, and Lil’ Kim, can you say “WOW”?

These artists were part of the “Ladies First” tour in the 1990s, which was a groundbreaking event showcasing the best female rap talent of the time.

And here’s a little something to get you started on your Monie Love journey. I put together a playlist featuring some of her classic tracks and some of her contemporary female Hip Hop artists. Check it out:

It’s a Shame (My Sister) – Monie Love

Monie in the Middle – Monie Love

Ladies First – Queen Latifah ft. Monie Love

Buddy – De La Soul ft. Monie Love

I Know You Got Soul – Eric B & Rakim ft. Monie Love

This playlist is fire, ain’t no doubt about it. So crank up the volume and pay homage to the Queen of UK Hip Hop and all the contemporary female MCs killin’ the game right now.

By: Torrence Phillips

The Bomb Squad was a legendary production crew that helped shape the sound of hip-hop in the late 80s and early 90s. Comprised of Hank and Keith Shocklee, Eric “Vietnam” Sadler, and later Gary “G-Wiz” Rinaldo, the Bomb Squad worked closely with Public Enemy to craft their iconic sound.

The Bomb Squad’s innovative style of sample-based production and funky orchestrations had a major influence on a wide range of genres, from industrial and alternative rock to R&B and hip-hop. They pushed the boundaries of what was possible in the studio, and helped lay the foundation for the future of hip-hop production. The Bomb Squad’s production style was characterized by their use of dense layers of samples, combined with a wide range of sound effects and other noises. They were known for their innovative production techniques, including the use of high-speed, multi-layered drum loops, and the chopping and manipulating of samples to create unique sounds. Their style was also characterized by a relentless, aggressive quality that often approached the level of musical assault.

Public Enemy’s It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back, released in 1988, was The Bomb Squad’s first major production, and it quickly became one of the defining albums of the golden age of hip-hop. With its heavy use of samples, hard-hitting beats, and politically charged lyrics, It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back established Public Enemy as one of the most important and influential acts in rap music.

The Bomb Squad went on to produce several other classic Public Enemy albums, including Fear of a Black Planet and Apocalypse 91…The Enemy Strikes Black. Over the years, The Bomb Squad has worked with a number of notable acts, including Ice Cube, LL Cool J, EPMD, and Run-DMC. They are also credited with producing several classic albums, including Public Enemy’s “It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back” and “Fear of a Black Planet.”

Despite their brief lifespan, The Bomb Squad’s impact on the music industry can still be felt today. Some of The Bomb Squad’s greatest hits include Public Enemy’s “Bring the Noise,” “Don’t Believe the Hype,” and “Fight the Power,” as well as Ice Cube’s “AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted” and “The Predator.” These tracks remain some of the most enduring and influential hip-hop tracks of all time, and they continue to inspire new generations of musicians and producers. Many current artists, including Kendrick Lamar, Tyler, The Creator, and Run The Jewels, cite The Bomb Squad as a major influence in their music.

In honor of The Bomb Squad’s legacy, we’ve put together a playlist of some of their greatest hits:

“Bring the Noise” by Public Enemy

“Fight the Power” by Public Enemy

“Welcome to the Terrordome” by Public Enemy

“Black Steel in the Hour of Chaos” by Public Enemy

“It’s a Shame (My Sister)” by Monie Love

“Can I Live” by Ice Cube

“The Boomin’ System” by LL Cool J

“Gold Digger” by EPMD

“King of Rock” by Run-DMC

“Revolutionary Generation” by X-Clan

This playlist is just a small taste of the incredible body of work produced by The Bomb Squad. Their innovative approach to production continues to inspire and influence artists across all genres to this day.

The album I have been waiting for is finally out; Kelela’s second album Raven is here. In the months before the release, Kelela dropped five singles that displayed the change in tone for this new era. Her first album had more of a pop/r&b feeling, with tracks ranging from fast-paced to slow jam. In her new era, she goes ambient with influences of Black electronic music such as drum and bass, jungle and Baltimore club.

I’m really obsessed with the parallels Raven has with Sade’s Love Deluxe. Both took time away from music to focus on themselves. Then they returned with albums that were more downtempo in their sound while exploring themes about being surrounded by bodies of water. The album cover of Kelela’s Raven portrays her partially submerged in water, while “No Ordinary Love,” the lead single of Love Deluxe, portrays Sade as a mermaid out of water looking for her lover. I understand the symbolism because, what can be more calming than the shifting of the tides, right?

Speaking of tides, the message of the album has a lot to do with the push and pull that comes with attraction of relationships. It can feel like you can be so close with someone, but at the same time you’re drifting like two ships passing each other. The song “Washed Away” (one of my favorite songs on the album btw) really feels like waves washing over you on the seashore. The main mantra is her saying “far away” like how it feels like when a lover is being emotionally distant. Happy Ending is another example of the tidal nature of relationships with her and the person she’s singing about wanting to be together, but they’re not seeing eye to eye. The cherry on top is her singing longingly over breakbeat (two things I love very deeply). Let It Go is more of a downtempo song with a really fun bassline that feels somewhat like Sade’s Paradise. She’s singing of a lover that’s a bit wishy-washy and she has to chase after them and when they are together it feels like they’re pushing away. On The Run definitely feels like a struggle in a relationship in contrast with Kelela’s calm and warm vocals on this bittersweet song. Here she sings of a lover that won’t open up to her and tries to act tough, while she’s tired of dealing with stoicism when she wants them to be more loving.

Missed Call is one of my top 5 on Raven, it’s really introspective and she paints a very vivid picture with the vocals. She’s split with her lover, but is contemplating on falling in love with them again.

The next song Closure featuring Rahrah Gabor is definitely top 3 for me. It’s just so sensual, fun and makes you want to get up and also get down (I feel a wide array of emotions about this song). The best part for me is Rahrah Gabor, like if I heard this playing at a party I would absolutely start screaming the lyrics, it’s perfect.

Speaking of perfect, the next track Contact is my absolute favorite on the album. I love UK garage and the way when the song starts the beat absolutely hits you in the face is very cathartic I will say. The lyrics really feel like an anthem for club-goers as dancing and losing yourself in the music can take you away from the mundanity of daily life. Kelela knows herself as anyone else trying to stay alive these days that life and relationships can be difficult and the club can help with that. My favorite lyrics of the album are from the song “Loneliness I see in your eyes,It might just render you blind,Been getting harder these days,Contact we just have to make”. Life and what it brings can be isolating, but the music and people you love can take you away from that.

The next tracks Fooley and Holier slow the album back down to the ambient feeling present at the beginning of Raven. Holier is a song for people who are in the process of healing. She sings so calmly about being hurt by a lover, but reassures herself by going to people who she knows that are on her side. Kelela is not allowing her past lover to take her back to a dark place and I love that for her. Raven the namesake of the album is her proclamation that she is reborn regardless of the problems she had encountered in the past . This is one of the more experimental tracks with her singing over a repetitive siren and as she sings she becomes more intense. She belts the music shifts into a hard hitting trance-like beat to Baltimore club as the song transitions into Bruises an anthem for those who can’t seem to get away from those they are trying to avoid.  Sorbet is definitely the most sultry song on the album, many users on Twitter have made comparisons to the song Warmth by Janet Jackson which with their voices and the feeling of the song are similar in nature. Sorbet feels like satin sheets and warm sun as the sun is rising, she really is channeling Janet Jackson’s sensuality in this song, as it also sounds like it would not be out of place on The Velvet Rope. Divorce is an interesting song as it takes a bit from Bjork’s Joga with the intro. I really like this nod as Bjork is a big fan of Kelela and it’s kind of a shout out. This is a very water sign song, she sings of feeling like she’s drowning because of the difficult nature of the relationship and wanting to start fresh with someone else. The second to last song Enough for Love is her declaring that she’s had enough of the love or lack of it that she was receiving from the past lover and Far Away is a reprise of Washed Away and the way its closes out makes it feel like she’s healed from this chapter of difficult love. The album is a story of the quiet loneliness that comes from being a loving person in love with someone who is emotionally closed.

            To say I love Raven is an understatement whereas, I’m more obsessed with it, the sound and the story it tells with its different chapters, I can’t get enough of it. I have seen some people prefer her first album Take Me Apart to this one, but for me I think Raven is my favorite. The narrative and her writing really stands out for me as she describes the loneliness that comes from distant lovers so well. It just speaks to my ambient music loving hopeless romantic heart. She seamlessly mixes different genres pioneered by black queer musicians into one album about breakups and solitude. I loved the change in tone from her first and second albums as you can see life has changed her a lot in the past five years.