By: TR Philips

Glenn Lewis: The Unfading Voice of Neo-Soul

In the early 2000s, from the wintry expanses of Canada, a voice emerged that would leave a lasting imprint on the neo-soul genre. Glenn Lewis, with his debut album World Outside My Window in 2002, introduced the world to the soul-stirring hit “Don’t You Forget It.” His music, a perfect blend for a serene evening or a deep dive into emotions, has since become a staple for aficionados of classic R&B and neo-soul. Echoing the legendary sounds of Stevie Wonder, Donny Hathaway, and Marvin Gaye, Lewis’s discography is essential for anyone who cherishes the depth and soulfulness of timeless music. Let’s delve into what makes Glenn Lewis a standout artist in the neo-soul scene.

After captivating audiences with Moment of Truth in 2013, Lewis took a step back from the limelight to prioritize his personal life and address health concerns. Despite the challenges of navigating the music industry as an independent artist, Lewis maintained his musical presence through collaborations and contributions to various soundtracks, underscoring his resilience and enduring talent.

Lewis’s collaborative efforts include working with Kardinal Offishall on “Backbone” for the Honey soundtrack in 2003, a showcase of his silky vocals against a backdrop of hip-hop and R&B fusion. His cover of Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition” for the Deliver Us from Eva soundtrack further highlighted his versatility and ability to honor classic tunes with his unique touch.

In 2006, Lewis appeared on “Back for More” with Canadian R&B artist Keshia Chanté, blending their voices in a soulful harmony that exemplifies Lewis’s collaborative spirit. His partnership with Babyface on “I Want You” for The Fighting Temptations soundtrack showcased a timeless ballad that highlighted Lewis’s vocal prowess.

2017 marked a significant year with the release of “Chasing Goosebumps,” an album produced in collaboration with DJ Jazzy Jeff as part of Jeff’s “Playlist Retreat.” The project was a critical success, offering a fresh take on neo-soul and showcasing the seamless blend of Lewis’s voice with Jazzy Jeff’s production.

The Fun Rises, The Fun Sets, released in 2015, marked Lewis’s return to music, featuring his signature smooth sound with a modern twist. The album included notable collaborations, reflecting Lewis’s evolving artistry while staying true to his soulful roots.

His latest single, “Good One,” released in 2021, continues to highlight Lewis’s knack for creating music that resonates on a deeply emotional level, solidifying his position as a beloved figure in the neo-soul community.

For fans over forty and beyond, who hold a deep appreciation for the rich, soulful melodies of classic R&B and neo-soul, Glenn Lewis remains an emblem of musical integrity and talent. His journey through the ebbs and flows of the music industry not only showcases his adaptability and perseverance but also the timeless nature of his music. Here’s a comprehensive playlist of Glenn Lewis’s most impactful tracks to immerse yourself in his artistry:

Glenn Lewis’s music is perfect for any neo-soul fan, with smooth vocals and thoughtful lyrics that will have you feeling all kinds of emotions. Here’s a playlist of Glenn Lewis’s top tracks to get you started:

“Don’t You Forget It” – World Outside My Window (2002)

“Fall Again” – World Outside My Window (2002)

“Take Me” – World Outside My Window (2002)

“Good One” – Single (2021)

“Storm” – World Outside My Window (2002)

“This Love” – The Fun Rises, The Fun Sets (2015)

“One More Day” – The Fun Rises, The Fun Sets (2015)

“Back for More” – With Keshia Chanté (2006)

“What’s Come Over Me” – Moment of Truth (2013)

“Beautiful Eyes” – Moment of Truth (2013)

Glenn Lewis is a talented and influential figure in the neo-soul genre, with a discography that showcases his soulful vocals, thoughtful lyrics, and timeless sound. While he took a hiatus from music after the release of Moment of Truth, he remained active in the music industry, collaborating with other artists and contributing to several soundtracks. His return to music in 2015 with The Fun Rises, The Fun Sets was a welcome one, and his music continues to be a staple of the neo-soul genre. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his music, Glenn Lewis’s soulful sounds are sure to impress.

By: T.R. Phillips

If you’re a fan of soulful, funk-infused R&B, then you’ve probably heard of Van Hunt. The Dayton, Ohio native has been making music for over two decades, blending elements of rock, soul, and blues to create a unique sound that’s all his own. But did you know that Hunt’s music has been influenced by some of the biggest names in black music? Let’s take a look at some of the artists who have shaped Hunt’s sound, as well as the impact he’s had on the genre.

Hunt’s musical roots run deep, thanks in part to his upbringing in a household filled with music. His parents were both musicians, and he grew up listening to a wide variety of genres, including soul, funk, jazz, and rock. Some of his early influences include Sly and the Family Stone, Curtis Mayfield, and Jimi Hendrix. These artists would go on to shape Hunt’s sound and inspire him to create music that blended various genres and pushed boundaries.

But Hunt’s influences didn’t stop there. He also cites Prince, Lenny Kravitz, and Stevie Wonder as major inspirations, and their influence can be heard in Hunt’s music. His soulful vocals and funk-infused sound pay homage to these iconic artists, while also incorporating his own unique style.

Hunt’s impact on the neo-soul genre is also worth noting. His self-titled debut album, released in 2004, helped to establish him as a rising star in the genre, and his fusion of various genres earned him comparisons to Prince and Lenny Kravitz. His socially conscious lyrics, which address issues of race, politics, and identity, also set him apart from other artists in the genre and helped to establish him as a thought-provoking and innovative musician.

So, what has Hunt been up to lately? Well, he’s still making music and pushing boundaries. His most recent single, “A Woman Like You,” was released in 2021, and it showcases his signature soulful vocals and funky sound. The song is a nostalgic nod to classic R&B, with a modern twist that’s sure to appeal to fans of Hunt’s music.

In conclusion, if you’re a fan of soulful, funk-infused R&B, then you owe it to yourself to check out Van Hunt. His music is a unique blend of various genres, and his socially conscious lyrics and soulful vocals make him one of the most innovative artists in the neo-soul genre. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to his music, there’s no denying the impact that Van Hunt has had on black music.

“Seconds of Pleasure”

“Dust”

“Being A Girl”

“Hello, Goodbye”

“Her December”

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By: T. Phillips

Explore the musical journey of Andre 3000, his distinctive style, thought-provoking lyrics, and exceptional talent in both music and fashion. Discover a playlist of his greatest hits and standout guest appearances.

Andre 3000: The Trailblazer of Hip-Hop Music and Fashion

Born on May 27, 1975, in Atlanta, Georgia, Andre 3000 (born Andre Benjamin) was destined for greatness. From an early age, his love for music was evident as he learned to play the piano and saxophone, and even started writing his own songs as a teenager. Alongside his high school friend, they formed the legendary hip-hop duo OutKast and began performing at local clubs and talent shows, eventually catching the eye of local rapper and producer Organized Noize.

OutKast’s Unique Blend of Southern Hip-Hop, Funk, and Soul

OutKast debuted in 1994 with the groundbreaking album Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik, which was lauded for its exceptional fusion of southern hip-hop, funk, and soul. This album not only introduced Andre 3000 as a trailblazer but also solidified OutKast’s position as one of the most innovative rap groups of their time. Over the next decade, OutKast continued to release classic albums such as ATLiens (1996), Aquemini (1998), Stankonia (2000), and Speakerboxxx/The Love Below (2003), each pushing the boundaries of hip-hop and expanding their musical horizons.

Andre 3000’s Impact on Fashion and Thought-Provoking Lyrics

Andre 3000 has always been known for his unique style, both musically and in fashion. Often credited with popularizing oversized clothing and bold, colorful fashion choices in hip-hop, he remains a trendsetter and style icon. Beyond his fashion sense, Andre is recognized for his introspective and thought-provoking lyrics, which frequently tackle social and political issues and challenge conventional wisdom.

Standout Guest Appearances and Unforgettable Lines

From his verse on Frank Ocean’s “Pink Matter” to his appearance on James Blake’s “Solo (Reprise),” Andre 3000’s guest appearances consistently showcase the depth of his lyrical prowess. Throughout his career, Andre has delivered memorable lines that captivate listeners, touching on topics like education, societal norms, and personal struggles.

In “Sixteen,” Andre raps about his experiences as a teenager and his journey to adulthood. One notable line from the song is, “I’m tryna pull my grades up, to get them saddle lace ups.” This genius line uses the bootstrap metaphor, flips it, and juxtaposes it next to the futility many kids in the inner city south feel about education, all while seeking success. Another memorable line from the song is, “She’s yelling, ‘Selling’s a sin, well, so is telling young men / That selling is a sin if you don’t offer new ways to win.'” This line showcases Andre’s ability to use irony to highlight the hypocrisy of certain societal norms.

The verse on “Where’s the Catch?” opens with Three Stacks delving into his thought process and self-reflection. The line, “All my pets are mystic, keeps me in a cage (cage),” highlights Andre’s use of metaphor and vivid imagery to convey a deeper meaning. The mystic pets symbolize the mental and emotional struggles that keep him trapped, while the cage represents his internal struggle to overcome them. “Harmony, harmony, how many? / How many days of amazing will it be before it phases / And I say I told you so?” sees Dre ponder the fleeting nature of happiness and the inevitability of it eventually fading. This line speaks to his candor as an artist and his willingness to delve into personal themes in his music.

In “Pink Matter,” Andre’s verse includes the lines, “You were such a habit to call / I ain’t myself at all,” and “Had to tell myself, ‘Naw / She better with some fella with a regular job.'” These lines highlight André’s insecurities about himself and his unconventional lifestyle compared to others.

Celebrating Andre 3000’s Genius with a Playlist of his Greatest Hits

If you’re an Andre 3000 fan, this playlist of his greatest hits and guest appearances will take you on a journey through the world of Three Stacks. Featuring tracks like “Rosa Parks” and “B.O.B.,” these songs exhibit his unique style and unmatched talent. So sit back, hit play, and immerse yourself in the world of Andre 3000.

“Hey Ya!” –
Outkast

“Roses” –
Outkast

“Prototype”
– Outkast

“B.O.B.” –
Outkast

“Rosa Parks”
– Outkast

“Pink
Matter” – Frank Ocean ft. Andre 3000

“Sixteen” –
Rick Ross ft. Andre 3000

“International
Player’s Anthem (I Choose You)” – Outkast ft. UGK

“Humble
Mumble” – Outkast ft. Erykah Badu

“The Whole
World” – Outkast ft. Killer Mike

“Gone Baby, Don’t
Be Long” – Erykah Badu ft. Andre 3000

“Take Off Your
Cool” – Outkast ft. Norah Jones

“The Art of
Storytellin’ (Pt. 4)” – Outkast

“Green
Light” – John Legend ft. Andre 3000

“30
Something” – Jay-Z ft. Andre 3000

“In Your
Dreams” – The-Dream ft. Andre 3000

“Where’s The
Catch” – James Blake ft. Andre 3000

“So Fresh, So
Clean” – Outkast

“Walk It Out
(Remix)” – DJ Unk ft. Andre 3000

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.

NOV 14TH at 7PM CDT – Tune into The Hot Pepper Show as Pepper Thomas interviews singer, songwriter and musician, Lenny Williams!

Live streaming on https://neosoulcypher.com/and Facebook Live!

Listen to Lenny Williams here: https://lennywilliams.com/

ABOUT THE MUSIC
“Chicharrón de Pollo” Collaborative production effort by BD3 and Nyirabeats, paints the atmosphere and landscape of the darkness of any metropolitan city. The grit of the flow and tenacity of delivery lets the listener know that there is nothing BD3 is holding back from getting. What is his is his, and it is time to separate the weak from the elite.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
BD3 is a unique creative with a finger on the pulse of the culture. A lyricist fusing live instrumentation with the love of Afro-Beat, Reggae, Soul and Funk, and aggressive hard hitting Hip Hop to channel the energy of crowds and translate the feeling.. He is an innovator with an electrifying presence that catapults him to the forefront of stages both nationally and internationally. One third of the Trew Culture music collective that rock stages from New York City’s Blue Note out to the festivals of Springfield. The Co-Founder of the Culture Lounge where he creates a space of symbiotic energy where music, art, and food commune in one space. The visual brainchild behind cinematic animated graphics that accompanies much of he and his peers music. There’s no ceiling to the creative powerhouse, dynamism is the only way to encompass the steady movement of this Brooklyn borned MC.

LINKS – for more information: www.whoisbd3.com
Instagram – @whoisbd3

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BzdRrINwljv3IU6qwsm2f5rXqsCPJYF-/view?usp=sharing

Two of the most prolific black record labels that took the hip hop music scene by storm in the 90’s Bad Boy Records based on the East Coast in 1993 founded by Sean “Puffy” Combs and its predecessor Death Row Records on the West Coast in 1991 founded by Dr. Dre, Suge Knight, the D.O.C. and Dick Griffey. It was like two beloved kingdoms ruling hearts and minds of the nation with beats and rhymes from classic albums like the Chronic, Doggy Style, Ready to Die, All Eyez on Me, Me Against the World so many to name selling millions of records world wide. 

As prolific as these two labels are Tupac or Notorious B.I.G never won a Grammy Award for their platinum selling albums an obvious snub by the recording academy. Also with much success comes trials and tribulations as lets say the world war of hip hop broke out between the East Coast and West Coast fueled by media and magazine sells at the time ending with the death of two great superstars Tupac being gunned down on the Las Vegas strip on September 13, 1996 and Notorious B.I.G gunned down on March 9, 1997 in Los Angeles, CA.

Even though two of America’s top five MC’s are gone they have left us behind classic albums and two historical black owned and operated record labels with catalogs of music from many other great artist that were label mates on the Bad Boy and Death Row imprints. I present to you a mock Verzuz of these two greats on the Spotify mix below. 

https://open.spotify.com/embed/playlist/501PUWoJmo5pFBdsET7uB6?utm_source=generator

Whitney herself describes Whitney’s Favorites:  “I put together a collection of songs that I’ve made and love and that I’m most proud of.  I was excited to put together this collection of six songs that I mean a lot to me . ‘Bombs Away’ , ‘Terminal Love’, ‘Cruise’, ‘Top Spot’, ‘Fireplace’, and ‘Don’t Believe Ya’ are some of my most impactful songs to me. ” 
Impactful indeed as these songs have close to half a million streams and total more than 6 million views on YouTube. Whitney’s songs have a range from the emotional intensity of  a “Bombs Away”, the relaxing smooth “Cruise”  to the upbeat optimism of “Top Spot”. 
Collectively, we feel that compiling this collection not only showcases the range and depth of Whitney’s songs but  her own artistic versality.  
Whitney’s music has been featured in outlets like Soultracks.com,  You Know I Got Soul,  GrownFolksMusic,  Parade Magazine, The Urban Music Scene, Hertz Magazine,  American Highways  and many many more.  
Whitney’s Favorites is now available on all digital retail platforms.   
Whitney’s Favorites – Whitney McClain (smarturl.it)
Whitney Favorites – Video VRTL_2.mp4 (dropbox.com)