Soul Train

Thursday Throwback: Debbie Allen

Quia — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:10:07 +0000

“You got big dreams, you want fame. Well fame costs, and right here is where you start paying… in sweat!” Many of us eagerly waited to hear that line spoken every week by dance teacher Lydia Grant at the beginning of “Fame”. Grant was of course played by Houston, Texas-born Debbie Allen. A graduate

Views: Soulitude

Quia — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 13:32:27 +0000

Ego is suicide. Don’t believe your own hype–your ego is as fake as Santa Claus. In R&B singer Beyoncé’s “Ego” remix, Kanye West states that his ego is his imaginary friend. Mr. West is admittedly suggests that his ego is an illusion. The ego is an unauthentic inflated feeling of pride in our superiority to others. Ego

Train Stop Tuesday: The Gap Band – Shake

Quia — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:47:57 +0000

The Gap Band had a stone groove with this song. Although this isn’t the classic “Disco sound,” the notion of shaking booty at the disco can’t be denied once you hear that bassline. Shimmer and shine seems to be the common theme with the band’s apparel. It’s flashy, yet not overdone. Note the studded trim

Kelly Rowland Talks The Best of Soul Train

Quia — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 17:03:39 +0000

On Monday, August 30 singer Kelly Rowland appeared on the Today show to help celebrate the retail release of the Best of Soul Train boxed set. “For me, when I saw Soul Train, that was when you made it,” she eagerly explained. She spoke about her first appearance on the show as a part of

Sound Check: Dionne – Moving Dreams into Reality

Quia — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:31:42 +0000

Some people were born to sing. You feel it in their presence and even their speaking voice possesses a musical flourish to its tone. Dionne was born to sing. This long-time songwriter from Dallas, Texas proudly counts herself as an alumna of “Grammy High,” the Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and

Soul-o-Meter: Kem – Intimacy

Quia — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 11:26:06 +0000

The new era of Motown is creating quite the legacy, this time in the form of the jazzy Neo Soul singer Kem, whose recent release of his third album Intimacy follows the high quality of his previous releases. The disc is a far too rare breath of fresh air in a landscape where it seems

Kanye Presents Good Friday and the Free Track Evolution

Quia — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 13:31:54 +0000

Looking to add some hott tracks to your music collection? Look no further than @kanyewest. As the latest artist to join Twitter, Kanye is going full speed ahead with his social networking. Not only has he joined Twitter and made his first follower an Internet celebrity, he also visited Facebook and Twitter headquarters and debuted music off his

Soul-o-Meter: Fantasia – Back to Me

Quia — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 13:31:03 +0000

With all the negative press surrounding Fantasia Barrino nowadays, it’s hard to tell if her third studio album, Back To Me, will garner the attention it deserves. Barrino has obviously matured immensely since her sophomore offering, Fantasia (2006). When asked during interviews about the significance of her latest LP’s title, Fantasia disclosed that musically, she

The Gap

Quia — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 13:45:14 +0000

There is a gap, a slight pause before Def Jam recording artist Ne-Yo answers the first of many interview questions, which apparently is a difficult one: what is his favorite Stevie Wonder album. “Let me see…,” begins the 30-year old Soul Train Award-winning singer/songwriter, taking several seconds to find an answer. “You know, I can’t just

Views: Soul’y For The Men

Quia — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 04:44:04 +0000

…But the ladies will read it anyway. Ladies want to know the way men think. They would like to know why we have double standards, why we lie and lead them on, why we’re not upfront, why we’re so afraid to commit, why we don’t completely answer questions, why we have a hard time communicating

Train Stop Tuesday: Disco Heritage

Quia — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 14:18:32 +0000

Gloria Gaynor defined herself as the quintessential Disco queen when she released “I Will Survive.” The triumphant tune about successfully leaving a no-good lover has been the recovery anthem for people for decades, now. The Soul Train gang looks as stylish as ever, our favorite disco ladies swirling in their long skirts with brothers in

Blackness In All Its Beauty

Quia — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 13:54:57 +0000

Soul Train premiered on WCIU-TV on August 17, 1970 as a live show that aired on weekday afternoons. In October of 1971, Soul Train aired in national syndication with a co-sponsor that featured commercials portraying blackness in all it’s beauty–the Johnson Products Company. The Johnson Product Company’s Ultra Sheen and Afro Sheen commercials were some of

Usher’s High-Tech Dreams

Quia — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 13:39:08 +0000

Nokia recently launched a new webisode series. Called Inside Track, the show interviews the hottest artists to find out how they uses technology to connect with their fanbase. In the flagship episode, Inside Track caught up with R&B superstar Usher. During the interview, Usher discusses his new website, Usherworld.com as well as his love of social

Sound Check: You Have Reached Mike Phillips

Quia — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 14:48:31 +0000

Mike Phillips describes his ascent in the music industry as “almost like a jazz version of Lil’ Wayne,” noting his numerous guest spots before releasing his first album, and then that first album, 2002’s You Have Reached Mike Phillips, debuting at #3 on the Billboard contemporary jazz chart. Since then the Mount Vernon, NY, native

Views: Color Complicated

Quia — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 14:22:35 +0000

As my father would say, “I made the mistake of watching music videos the other day.” I was unsurprised, yet disappointed to see that it is still the case that light-complexioned/non-black/“exotic” women seem to be the preferred casting preference. Just because it ain’t new doesn’t mean it’s not a problem. And just because we’ve

Views: Soul Dreams

Quia — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 12:45:42 +0000

On a recent trip from Chicago to Atlanta, I stopped through Gary, Indiana to visit the childhood home of the legendary King of Pop, Michael Jackson. As we drove up that little one-lane, bumpy road, I couldn’t help but think to myself, what if he stayed? What if Michael Jackson never believed he could be

Train Stop Tuesday: Soul Train Awards Flashback – Robin Thicke

Quia — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:32:31 +0000

Flashback to backstage at the 2009 Soul Train Awards with Mr. Blue Eyed Soul, Robin Thicke. Asha the Intern really gets him to open up and share some of his favorite Soul Train memories, of not only watching the show on Saturday mornings but also, performing on the show. In this clip he’s very excited

Sound Check: Nadine Charles – London sounds of Soul

Quia — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:55:15 +0000

Nadine Charles is a soulful singer from London, England. Although she was successful academically, she refused to ignore her musical calling. From an early age music has been present in Nadine’s life. She started playing the piano as a toddler and soon found her singing voice. With her home filled with the sounds of Al Green,

Will Packer – Power Player

Quia — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 12:20:22 +0000

With two new films currently poised for release, producer Will Packer is the embodiment of his “Will Power” moniker. He shifts tirelessly between work and play–having made time to support fellow Florida A&M University Rattlers at the Alumni Roundup in Miami in between screening both “Takers” and “Stomp the Yard 2: Homecoming” at the American

Sound Check: Arrested Development – Forever Strong

Quia — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 15:11:24 +0000

No, you’re not seeing things. The Arrested Development movement is alive and well. Back in the days when booty-shake and socially-aware music could coexist in the mainstream, bands like AD flourished. But as bling and gangsterism edged out forward-thinking and social responsibility, AD only had a niche audience to appeal to. That didn’t stop them,

Views: Somebody Else’s Guy

Quia — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 12:48:32 +0000

What’s a girl suppose to do when she realizes her man is someone else’s guy? Morally you would hope she would drop him like a bad habit and forget his whole existence, but realistically she and many other women like Jocelyn Brown can’t get off their high horse and let him go. Even though affairs have been

Views: Soul Search

Quia — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 13:40:39 +0000

Since when is a woman with strength, ambition and an opinion the new “bitch?” On Kanye West’s newest single, the rapper yells, “No one man should have all that power.” Well what about any one woman? As men, we claim we want a lady with her own career, own mind, drive and success but usually end

Rock This: Red Carpet Style

Quia — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 05:44:02 +0000

Things are already going on behind the scenes in preparation for the 2010 Soul Train Awards. We can hardly wait for the announcement of the nominees and performance lineup. Last year marked the return of the Soul Train Awards after a two-year hiatus in 2007. Fans celebrated the return of the show as their favorite

Train Stop Tuesday: 2009 Soul Train Awards Rewind – Chrisette Michele

Quia — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 13:00:26 +0000

It’s always exciting to catch a glimpse of performers’ personalities away from the stage and that was Asha the Intern’s mission as she was joined by the lovely and talented Chrisette Michele on the Soul Train Awards red carpet. Chrisette’s jubilant personality radiates through the screen as she jokes with Asha about trying to find

Soul-o-Meter: Dru Hill – InDRUpendence Day

Quia — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 14:49:20 +0000

Taking a note from Monica’s “Still Standing” notebook, R&B quartet Dru Hill synced their comeback album with a reality series. Starring in “Keith Sweat’s Platinum House,” on Centric, viewers follow the group through their grueling fight back to the musical forefront. Three of the original players are still in tact: Sisquo, Nokio and Jazz. Woody

Views: I Wanna Slow Dance With Somebody

Quia — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 13:15:13 +0000

I'm not sure I've ever really slow danced before. This fact occurred to me the other night, as I was dozing off to "Anniversary" on the train the other night. I've been listening to the Tony Toni Tone song for the better part of my life and I always imagined it being one of those tunes I'd be slow dragging to as an adult

Sound Check: Montrose – Rock Star Next Door

Quia — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 12:00:23 +0000

Never judge a book by its cover. On the surface, Rock-Soul singer Montrose is just another soft-spoken brother whose clothes hint that he has an affinity for vintage shops. He shuttles his toddler to and from school, takes his wife to dinner, entertains friends regularly. Except when he’s entertaining, he’s not just leading lively conversations,

Diary of a Soul Train Dancer: Wardrobe Malfunctions, Flying Weave and Fights — It’s the Soul Train Line!

Quia — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 13:27:58 +0000

It was a long day on the Soul Train set–a long 10 hours with multiple guests performing, dance numbers, the Scramble Board, takes and retakes, long breaks and all of the dancers were tired and hungry. Then the operation manager’s voice boomed out, “Soul Train Line!” and suddenly everyone’s energy peaked as they began to

Views: Translucent Soul

Quia — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 03:50:09 +0000

Discretion is advised. Jay-Z and Beyoncé kept their relationship private – they’re happily married. Brandy announced her brief stint with Flo-Rida on a VH1 reality show and they didn’t make it past date one. The appeal of privacy has become so appealing that businesses have come up with several lucrative and entertaining ways to invade it. TMZ

Train Stop Tuesday: Soul Train Awards Rewind – Keri Hilson’s Style

Quia — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 13:32:45 +0000

In this flashback from the 2009 Soul Train Awards, Asha the Intern talks to the chic and always fashionable singer, Keri Hilson. Ms. Hilson rocks a fabulous red-carpet look with her bustier-style cocktail dress and smoky yet shimmery eyeshadow. The Atlanta chanteuse is notoriously stylish, defining herself as a fab and sassy Southern girl. Her

Sound Check: Joonie – Acoustic Love

Quia — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 15:21:19 +0000

Sure, a pretty rose can be plucked from the concrete, packaged properly and sold to the masses. But when you find someone who writes and produces music, sings, and plays multiple instruments, therein lies the talent from which real music developed

Paper Dolls

Quia — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 12:54:28 +0000

Recently, Paper magazine published a feature and accompanying multi-page fashion spread celebrating classic Soul Train fashion. Writer Bevy Smith spun a nostalgic scene from her childhood in 1970s Harlem where her young world revolved around not just TV, but shows that featured characters she could relate to: “The Jeffersons”, “Good Times”, “The Love Boat”, but

Views: Champagne Life

Quia — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 12:29:22 +0000

How often do we celebrate our lives other than on our birthdays? Most likely, never. We’ve somehow conditioned ourselves to only celebrate our well-being once a year with family and friends instead of everyday like we truly should.

Soul Train: Decades of Hair and Style Influence

Quia — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 13:13:15 +0000

Whether the hair was an impossibly huge Afro, braids, or free form, the vibe was decidedly trendy as opposed to political. Kids at home were not just picking up on the dances, they were copying everything about the dancers and seeing themselves

Kanye West Debuts New Music, Performs at Facebook Campus

Quia — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 13:05:53 +0000

Kanye’s making ‘friends’ in high tech places. During a recent visit to the Facebook compound presumably in Palo Alto, Kanye West debuted new material for employees and performed some of his classics

Views: Shoe Souls

Quia — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 12:52:03 +0000

Sure, relationships don’t work out and couples split, but when there’s a pattern of serial monogamy and break-ups, one begins to question the individuals involved. There was a time when you could predict the beauty of literature based upon it’s exterior binding

Train Stop Tuesday: Soul Train Awards Rewind – Mychael Knight

Quia — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 13:18:15 +0000

In the spirit of Soul Train fashion, here's a clip with Asha the Intern at the 2009 Soul Train Awards talking to Atlanta-based designer Mychael Knight. The "Project Runway" veteran made his debut at Charleston Fashion Week with his 2010 Fall/Winter collection

Sound Check: Chandlar – The Family Legacy

Quia — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 14:05:48 +0000

The sounds people accept as music vary according to historical era, location, cultural and individual taste. If the actual definition of music is only those sounds which are considered pleasant, then singer Chandlar has all the ingredients of rising star

Soul-o-Meter: Drake – Thank Me Later

Quia — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 13:50:57 +0000

Perception is a funny thing, and when you consider the perception Drake has put forward with the songs he released prior to his album, he positioned himself as a witty, yet sensitive guy who was seriously girl-crazy and can hold his own spitting hot fire alongside Weezy.

Views: Over Conscious

Quia — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 18:51:37 +0000

The term "conscious rappers" has been used to elevate a certain group of emcees above the fray of mainstream and "gangsta" rap while alternately relegating these artists to a niche market, effectively branding them in a way that compromises their ability to promote their work. While I don't think there is any shame in being labeled conscious, I have grown to understand why it is not only an ineffective term, but an oftentimes inaccurate one

Soul-o-meter: Big Boi – Sir Lucious Left Foot… The Son Of Chico Dusty

Quia — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 14:14:31 +0000

Outkast’s ATLiens album was a major part of the soundtrack to my freshman year of college. Since then I’ve seen Outkast grow as a group, and then, in my opinion, fall off. Yes, I’m one of the select few that really didn’t like the Speakerboxxx / The Love Below double album. In fact, I’ve been waiting for the return of the REAL Outkast for a decade

twtMob and Diddy-Dirty Money Catch the Last Train to Paris

Quia — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 14:06:10 +0000

In celebration of their upcoming album, “Last Day to Paris,” Diddy-Dirty Money wants to party with their biggest fans. This afternoon, Diddy-Dirty Money tweeted (and retweeted) out to fans what they need to do to prove their fandom

Views: Soul Ready

Quia — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 13:37:32 +0000

Well let me say this right now--Alicia’s soothing voice just isn’t soothing enough to get most men to settle down. The vast majority of men aren’t ready for that “relationship talk” and if they are, they don’t even know where to begin

Train Stop Tuesday – I Love Music (And Disco!)

Quia — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 15:21:25 +0000

Disco was about glamour, excess, and the freedom to be fabulous. Take a look at some of the dance moves coming down the Soul Train line--those brothers mean just as much business as the sisters do. Their flair was not to be denied

Sound Check: Omar Wilson – The Good Life

Quia — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 02:52:52 +0000

The old axiom that those who don’t know the past are doomed to repeat it, doesn’t really apply to Omar Wilson. The raspy-voiced soul singer knows the past, but there’s one aspect of it he’s hoping to repeat

Soul-o-Meter: Janelle Monae – The ArchAndroid

Quia — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 02:34:03 +0000

The ArchAndroid is a beautiful, dramatic, melodic, exciting and insightful work. The complicated concept is a hybrid of musical and cinematic references.

Sound Check: V .Rich – Can’t Be Stopped

Quia — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 13:00:39 +0000

It is very possible that V .Rich is one of the most talented artists of the decade and as more people see his live shows and hear his music, more people are believing that claim. A classically-trained pianist, V .Rich has wowed audiences with his ability to play piano, sing, write and arrange music

Views: The Make-Up Bag

Quia — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 12:48:23 +0000

I must embarrassingly admit that when I first heard The Dream's latest song, “Makeup Bag,” I couldn’t for the life of me figure out why he was posturing about purchasing his woman a bag to carry her cosmetics in when she gets angry with him.

Diary of a Soul Train Dancer: The LSOU INTRA Scramble Board

Quia — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:44:23 +0000

As an avid watcher of Soul Train over the years, one segment of the show I always looked forward to was the Soul Train Scramble Board. A dance couple would unscramble a set of letters on a the board forming the name of a notable person in African American history be it a singer, politician, actor or an athlete

Views: Problem / So-u-lution

Quia — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 13:56:23 +0000

We’ve all been in uncomfortable or stressful situations. Often what makes an experience uncomfortable is our lack of knowledge in how to approach it or our fears of being judged. What makes a situation stressful is our reaction to it, so in essence we create our own stress

Train Stop Tuesday: Janet Jackson’s All Black Everything

Quia — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 11:56:00 +0000

Janet Jackson's style has evolved many times over the year but it has always included one, enduring staple--the color black. Whether because it was slimming, sexy, or just plain easy to coordinate with dancers, Ms. Jackson has been partial to all-black-everything for years.

Soul-o-Meter: Dwele – W.ants, W.orld, W.omen

Quia — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 13:55:33 +0000

Dwele’s W.ants, W.orld, W.omen, is an album that exists in three parts—with its trio of portrayals of the singer grafted to create the form of a singular man—for a visual analogy for the layout of the disc

Views: You Know I Had Soul

Quia — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 16:10:00 +0000

Music has changed, people’s tastes have changed, I know. Hip-Hop has become increasingly mainstream. It’s no longer accepted by middle America; it reflects middle America. A lot of what passes for R&B and Rap is as authentic to it’s origins as Taco Bell’s menu is to authentic Mexican cuisine

Sound Check: Eric Roberson – The Warrior for Honest Music

Quia — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 15:03:09 +0000

If you are a big Neo Soul and R&B music fan, there's a strong chance you have heard something that was produced, sung or written by Eric Roberson. Have you heard of Jill Scott, Vivian Green, 112, Will Downing, Case, DJ Jazzy Jeff or Dwele?

Time Life Commemorates the 40th Anniversary of an American Institution

Quia — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 12:21:00 +0000

There are 50 performances covered in eight hours of classic Soul, from the longest first-run series in syndication history (on air from 1970 - 2006) along with more than three hours of bonus material

Jay-Z Brings Gowalla to the Heart of New York to Get At Foursquare

Quia — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 12:15:47 +0000

The Nets are busy trying to generate buzz for their team and possibly attract one Lebron James to New Jersey. This little stunt probably won’t help them snag Lebron, but this huge billboard in rival territory definitely has people talking

Views: Soul’cial Independence

Quia — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 13:02:11 +0000

Tweeting while trying to enjoy life is like texting while driving – if you spend too much time doing either, you’re bound to miss something important – like a bright yellow sunset, or a bright red traffic light

Train Stop Tuesday: Tina Turner’s Style

Quia — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 13:15:47 +0000

The showstopping Ms. Tina Turner is a fashion icon in her own right. With her fabulous figure that she maintains even today, her performance clothes highlighted the best of her assets. Ms. Turner and the Ikettes were known for their long hair, short hemlines and tall boots which can be seen in this clip

Cakewalk Launches “Superstar” Songwriting Competition

Quia — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 13:56:26 +0000

Cakewalk has teamed up with Intel and OurStage.com to present the Superstars Songwriting competition. According to the press release, any recording solution will be accepted so whether you hit a real live music studio or use software, it’s all good

Views: Bag Lady

Quia — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 12:08:42 +0000

While we tote around our designer bags looking good on the outside many of us are hurting inside simply because we have not learned to let go. As a consequence, our “trips” whether short or long are disrupted and unpleasant

Sound Check: Jarrard Anthony – The Journey of Life

Quia — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 11:53:00 +0000

From taking care of his family, spiritually evolving, running his own businesses, working on a bachelor's degree, increasing his financial I.Q., to community-building, creating beauty and stimulating the mind through artistic expressions, Jarrard Anthony is the epitome of a hard working man

Sound Check – Rhonda Nicole, The Naked Truth

Quia — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 13:39:13 +0000

From her early days of rocking sold-out shows to her stuffed animals to her breakout performance as part of the Montrose band on the Tom Joyner Fantastic Voyage in 2009, Rhonda Nicole knew she loved the stage. But when it finally came time to record a project of her own, the process was long and frustrating

Views: So’ul Real

Quia — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 12:22:04 +0000

Vulgarity is the latest trend, it’s not only tolerated but it is embraced. We allow our communities to kill each other off, we disrespect our women and we risk our own lives--all for the sake of “keeping it real.”

Train Stop Tuesday: Trendspotting to “Ballero”

Quia — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 13:54:58 +0000

As each funky-fly duo makes their way down the Soul Train line to WAR's "Bayero," you'll notice that a few of the soul sisters in this clip are wearing suits. It's a look far from what you'd expect while tearing up the dance floor, but these were the days when going out was an event

Music Monday-The Soul Lounge Archive-v10.6

arisha — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 04:30:28 +0000

For your listening pleasure, check out the latest installment of The Soul Lounge. SoulTrain.com is the new home of the of the Neo-Soul audio show produced by Terry Bello

Soul-o-Meter: Christina Aguilera – Bionic

Quia — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 12:58:47 +0000

The cover art suggests that while half of Christina exists as we know her, the other half has been replaced by electronic and mechanical components--hence the title, and the theme is clearly evident from the start of the album

Sound Check: Preach Jacobs – On the Conscious Path

Quia — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 08:43:18 +0000

Remember the time when rap music used to be fun, all about the party, carefree, conscious with a message, and laid over dope, soulful beats? Well, this is what you get when you listen to Preach Jacobs

Views: Let’s Talk About Sex… But Not Like That

Quia — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 03:55:09 +0000

Our music has been highly sexual for eons, that's not hardly news. And a lot of young folk, such as myself, grew up hearing music we really ain't have no business listening to, but managed to keep our feet on the floor until a reasonable age

Ubisoft Announces Michael Jackson Video Game

Quia — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:30:12 +0000

Finally, all that crotch-grabbing and spinning around in imitation of the King of Pop that most of us grew up doing will be put to good use. At the recent E3 event, Ubisoft announced the development of a video game based on Michael Jackson’s moves

Views: I-soul-ated

Quia — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 13:44:11 +0000

Broke people are attracted to folks with money, the shy are attracted to the verbose, and the straight laced are often attracted to the witty. But when is the law of attraction taken too far?

Train Stop Tuesday: Johnnie Taylor – Disco Lady

Quia — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 13:54:14 +0000

Get into the groove with this dance floor classic from Johnnie Taylor. Disco ladies all across America were shaking it up and down to the smooth melody.

Music Monday-The Soul Lounge Archive-v10.5

arisha — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 20:12:56 +0000

For your listening pleasure, check out the latest installment of The Soul Lounge. SoulTrain.com is the new home of the of the Neo-Soul audio show produced by Terry Bello

Soul-o-Meter: Nas & Damian Marley – Distant Relatives

Quia — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 13:44:12 +0000

Marley and Nas each brings an arsenal of credibility to the table for Distant Relatives—but a king in the hip-hop world from his teen years and the son of Bob could only spark big expectations with the mention of their collaboration

Sound Check: Teresajenee – My Way

Quia — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 13:38:10 +0000

Some of us, for one reason or another, discover our gift only to find ourselves attempting to run from the inevitable fact that we are simply destined to make a difference in this thing we call “life.”

Views: Hold On

Quia — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 13:33:02 +0000

Ladies, when those four fabulous women of En Vogue told us to "Hold On" to our love, they were not only given us a fair warning on the consequences of taking our man for granted, they were letting us know that men need love too

Top 10 Songs About Infidelity

Quia — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 13:00:59 +0000

Infidelity isn’t the most pleasant subject to talk about but I think we can agree that it’s a very popular one. A constant source of conversation from break rooms to blogs, talk shows to tabloids; it’s been fodder for some great songs in every musical genre

Views: Soul Revolution

Quia — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 12:39:34 +0000

Open relationships are like open wounds, they leave you vulnerable and more susceptible to pain than you would otherwise be. In fact, open relationships aren’t relationships at all.

Train Stop Tuesday: Fall In Love Along with the Spinners

Quia — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 13:00:56 +0000

The delicate tinkle of the xylophone and sugar-sweet harmonies sung by the Spinners truly capture the spirit of the song. Who doesn't remember that single turning point, that a-ha moment when you realize that you've fallen for someone special

Sound Check – The Black Music Experience of N’dambi

Quia — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 03:38:39 +0000

She's commonly known around her hometown for her collaborations with fellow Dallasite, Eryah Badu, but N'dambi's talent and style is all her own. With her fiery, red-brown Afro and pouty, rum raisin-hued lips, she belts out powerful and vivid tales that paint a picture in the listener's mind with every note

Music Monday-The Soul Lounge Archive-v10.4

arisha — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 03:36:13 +0000

For your listening pleasure, check out the latest installment of The Soul Lounge. SoulTrain.com is the new home of the of the Neo-Soul audio show produced by Terry Bello

Soul-o-Meter: Leela James – My Soul

Quia — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 03:30:23 +0000

Five years ago Leela James burst onto the scene with her single “Music,” off of her debut album, A Change Is Gonna Come. Critics hailed her as the next great female soul singer, the masses, however, weren’t ready for James, and the album flopped

Views: Return of the Pied Pedophile?

Quia — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 13:24:43 +0000

I’d love to believe that the sex scandal did Kelly in; that fans had decided, after years of pretending that this man didn’t have a problem that lead him to abuse a number of young women, that enough was enough

Sound Check: The Fuzz Band – The Journey Inside

Quia — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 02:54:55 +0000

In the music business, melodically based offenses are considered especially heinous. In Virginia, the dedicated musicians that investigate these vicious felonies are members of an elite squad known as The Fuzz Band

Diary of a Soul Train Dancer: Inside the Soul Train Music Awards

Quia — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 13:31:52 +0000

One of the advantages of being a Soul Train dancer is the opportunity to attend the prestigious Soul Train Music Awards. Ever since its inception in March 1987, Soul Train dancers were always given free tickets to attend the ceremony as well as the after party

Views: A Gentle Soul

Quia — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 12:54:54 +0000

Being a gentleman doesn’t require suspenders & a bow tie doesn’t mean being a bore. The contemporary gentleman is appealing, intelligent, charming, ambitious, cultured and classic, but most importantly, he’s a man.

Train Stop Tuesday: Remembering Marvin Isley

Quia — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 14:22:23 +0000

Marvin Isley, bassist for the legendary Isley Brothers died on Sunday, at age 56 of complications from diabetes. He will be sorely missed but his musical legacy lives on

Music Monday-The Soul Lounge Archive-v10.3

arisha — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 03:37:59 +0000

For your listening pleasure, check out the latest installment of The Soul Lounge. SoulTrain.com is the new home of the of the Neo-Soul audio show produced by Terry Bello

Sound Check: The Recipe of Choklate

Quia — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 13:42:23 +0000

Choklate, a Seattle-based songstress, who writes all her own music, has already taken the breath away from many listeners around the globe. She infuses her sultry, sexy alto voice with hard, progressive beats and very real lyrics—sparking many different kinds of emotions with a voice is as sweet as chocolate

Views: Age Ain’t Nothing But A Number

Quia — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 12:50:16 +0000

According to Chi-Ali and Aaliyah, age is nothing but a number. They believed dating someone older or younger than you really shouldn’t matter because true love has no age limit. Well, it looks like they may have been right because couples today are ignoring their years apart and focusing on their love together.

Making Music on the Web with Soundation

Quia — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 13:06:23 +0000

Soundation is an application that lets you create music on the web. There is no software to download or hardware to install. All you need a browser with Flash support and you can start making music immediately. The Soundation online sequencer provides 11 real-time effects, 3 synthesizers, and a drum machine

Views: Soul Plan

Quia — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 12:44:42 +0000

Don't be fooled, overnight successes are years of hard work and hustle that haven’t been televised. There’s simply a misconception of success and everybody is going for it. Chasing the success before chasing the goal is like a drunken one-night stand

A Soul Train Tribute to Lena Horne

Quia — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 04:46:25 +0000

Though the timing and activities were not parallel, both Mr. Cornelius and Ms. Horne managed to leverage their influence in the entertainment industry for the advancement and equality of people of color. Ms. Horne did these things with tact and finesse, much the way she handled her entertainment career.

Train Stop Tuesday: Soul Train Dancer Cheryl Song’s Style

Quia — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 11:40:34 +0000

This installment of Train Stop Tuesday features one of Soul Train's most recognizable dancers, Cheryl Song, sporting her trademark super-long hair. Her black, one-shoulder jumpsuit was one of the hottest looks of the disco era.

Soul-o-Meter: Sharon Jones and The Dap Kings – I Learned the Hard Way

Quia — Mon, 31 May 2010 16:22:39 +0000

I Learned the Hard Way. While their previous offerings explored the vintage soul and funky rhythm of the 1970s, this album is a deeply narrative exploration of one woman's heart-wrenching dealings with the transient nature of love.

Music Monday-The Soul Lounge Archive-v10.2

arisha — Mon, 31 May 2010 15:57:47 +0000

For your listening pleasure, check out the latest installment of The Soul Lounge. SoulTrain.com is the new home of the of the Neo-Soul audio show produced by Terry Bello.

Views: Computer Love

Quia — Fri, 28 May 2010 13:09:24 +0000

Do you all remember "Computer Love" by Roger and Zapp, from back in the day? With that infamous talk box sound that made the song a number one hit. Well, they were probably the first pioneers of the talk box on record, and it looks like they may have also been the pioneers of online or “computer” dating.

Sound Check: IFe – I Sing Because I Can

Quia — Fri, 28 May 2010 12:34:10 +0000

She's being called, "a young Sade meets Lena Horne for the new millennium, " but, the enthralling singer/songwriter has a sound and style all her own. She writes and performs music that fuses R&B and Pop with elements of Jazz and Hip Hop that create melodic gems that are hard to forget

Views: Where Have All the Female Rappers Gone?

Quia — Thu, 27 May 2010 12:50:08 +0000

Five star chicks, bad chicks, hood chicks, doing-stuff-that-your-chick-wish-she-could chicks. The airwaves are full of talk about women but there's a glaring omission that Hip Hop devotees have noticed and are seriously wondering about

Views: Soul-ed for Gold

Quia — Wed, 26 May 2010 12:45:39 +0000

I had stones to throw, they would be made of gold. And if I threw these gold stones at a gold-digging woman, she certainly wouldn’t be afraid of getting hit--she would catch each one and thank me later!

Train Stop Tuesday: Trendspotting to Mama Feel Good

Quia — Tue, 25 May 2010 13:00:47 +0000

As Lyn Collins sings "Mama Feel Good" from the James Brown score of "Black Caesar," the Blaxploitation-era Soul Train gang gets things moving and grooving

Sound Check: Rhian Benson’s Electro-Soul

Quia — Tue, 25 May 2010 12:43:15 +0000

Though America is the home of soul music, the moods, ardor and inspiration that give it life are global. That sentiment is channeled through the velvety vocal chords of Rhian Benson. Very much a global citizen by descent and design, Ms. Benson made her first foray into the music scene with Gold Coast in

Soul-o-Meter: Corinne Bailey Rae – The Sea

Quia — Mon, 24 May 2010 04:57:41 +0000

In 2006, British singer Corinne Bailey Rae released her self-titled debut album to an immensely responsive audience. Her velvety tones and smooth production made for a solid first offering. "Put Your Records On" was her breakaway hit record, it was definitely a "poppy" track, but more importantly it added a much needed voice to the soul genre of 2006.

Views: Hey Young World: An Open Letter to Today’s Youth

Quia — Fri, 21 May 2010 12:59:01 +0000

Being a young person in this day and age may be difficult at times, but please know that the opportunities you have, the generations before you did not. From technology to the many career options you can choose, growing up in 2010 is a blessing

Views: Ladies First

Quia — Thu, 20 May 2010 12:53:38 +0000

The queen of hip hop's "Ladies First" movement has broken records again with her new film about black love, entitled, "Just Wright." Queen Latifah once again proves that ladies are doing it for themselves and making major moves in Hollywood, corporate America and politics

Views: Soul-cial Studies

Quia — Wed, 19 May 2010 04:00:14 +0000

In a contemporary world of respect, love and equal rights for all, it seems double standards are the standard. Men and women are getting away with more and less and pointing the finger at both. It’s a dangerous lifestyle to be divided in interests or loyalties, wavering, uncertain, two-faced or half-hearted

Train Stop Tuesday: Hot Pants and Dennis Coffey’s Scorpio

Quia — Tue, 18 May 2010 13:25:55 +0000

Take a look around the dance floor--sure, the shoes and Afros throw clues as to exactly which decade knew how to groove this hard, But 70s sisters loved a good pair of hot pants. How many pairs can you spot out there moving to the beat

Sound Check: Vocalist KJ Rose is All Heart, No Regrets

Quia — Mon, 17 May 2010 18:58:57 +0000

KJ Rose has toured as a backup singer for P. Diddy and the Family, Justin Timberlake and Janet Jackson. The experiences offered her first taste of life as a professional performer and whereas she knew that being a backup singer was no slouch of a career, she still wanted to strike out on her own

Sound Check: Terry Bello: Father of the International Soul Music Summit

Quia — Mon, 17 May 2010 13:03:28 +0000

Dubbed “The Voice of Soul,” Terry. Bello will lend his trained ear to the SoulTrain.com audience, showcasing artists for our Sound Check series. His track record and unflappable devotion to soul music will help continue the Soul Train legacy of introducing the listening public to new artists

Soul-o-meter: KJ Rose – All Heart, No Regrets

Quia — Fri, 14 May 2010 20:10:17 +0000

To characterize the debut album of KJ Rose, All Heart, No Regrets as an R&B album would be shortsighted. There are some core R&B elements, but there's a distinct Motown influence, there's a hint of Disco and not to mention an appreciation for Hip Hop.

Will.i.am Gives Back, Supports New Media

Quia — Fri, 14 May 2010 13:04:53 +0000

On May 10, the Oprah Show featured families who were facing foreclosure as a result of the recession. Both families attended the show under the guise they were going to receive financial counseling to help them keep their homes

Sound Check: Vocalist KJ Rose is “All Heart, No Regrets”

Quia — Thu, 13 May 2010 14:05:46 +0000

Diary of a Soul Train Dancer: Love, Peace… and Chicken Grease!

Quia — Wed, 12 May 2010 13:05:40 +0000

Tired and hungry. These are the two words that can best describe the feelings of many Soul Train dancers after a long taping schedule on the set from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., or 8 p.m. or 9 p.m

Views: Re-Souled

Quia — Wed, 12 May 2010 04:47:21 +0000

Going green is sexy? I’ve always been a fan of money, but I’m not talking about that kind of green. And no, I’m not talking about the green that your favorite rapper indulges in either. Going green, insinuates a broad philosophical and social movement centered on a concern for the conservation and improvement of the natural

Train Stop Tuesday: “For the Love of Money” Soul Train Line

Quia — Tue, 11 May 2010 13:31:29 +0000

Of course we're enjoying their collage of 70s-centric fashion, but one trend that stood out in particular in this clip were the platform shoes. Almost everyone had on a pair--men and women. And unless you've been inside of a fashion vacuum, you'd know that platforms are a quintessential then-to-now style

News: Lena Horne dies at age 92 in New York City

Quia — Mon, 10 May 2010 16:24:10 +0000

Lena Horne, singer, actress and civil rights activist has died in New York City at the age of 92. Her legacy includes successes as a singer, night club performer, as well as becoming the first black woman to sign a long-term contract with MGM Studios in the 1940s. The latter is significantly notable due to the fact she was a passionate civil rights activist

Soul-o-Meter: Raheem DeVaughn – The Love & War MasterPeace

Quia — Mon, 10 May 2010 12:47:36 +0000

Let me preface this review by saying I think Raheem DeVaughn is a fantastic singer with a voice that could be one of the best in R&B. The Love & War MasterPeace, however, isn’t going to be the album that cements his place among the R&B elite. Instead, it tries to be too much to too many people, lacking any sort of real direction

Views: Dear Mama

Quia — Fri, 07 May 2010 13:05:27 +0000

Every year around this time we have the opportunity to hear all of the classic songs on the radio dedicated to the one and only woman that gave us all life. From Boyz II Men ’s “Mama” to Tupac’s “Dear Mama” each ode serves as a stark reminder of how lucky we are to have you

Hip-Hop Word Count Analyzes the Story Behind The Music

Quia — Thu, 06 May 2010 12:35:15 +0000

Hip-Hop Word Count sounds like a pretty simple application. It counts the number of words in hip-hop songs or something, right? Wrong. On the surface, it may seem like HHWC performs a simple task, but it goes way deeper than that

Views: Soul Plunge

Quia — Wed, 05 May 2010 12:55:27 +0000

In the natural world, fear is like colored contacts, fake! It is a make-believe preventative measure in the mind that paralyzes us from progress. The definition is in the acronym of the word: False Expressions Appearing Real

Train Stop Tuesday: Trendspotting to “Put Your Hands Together”

Quia — Tue, 04 May 2010 13:38:14 +0000

From the very beginning of this classic Soul Train episode it's easy to see which style reigned supreme--bad, bad plaid. A good tartan never goes out of style, just ask Burberry and that's why plaid is this week's then to now style

Soul-o-Meter: Monica – Still Standing

Quia — Mon, 03 May 2010 13:29:32 +0000

Monica supported the release of her comeback album, Still Standing, with a reality TV show of the same name. And whereas her interpretation of Deniece Williams' "Silly," manifested in "Everything to Me" in the is a chart-topping success, the album lacks few solid follow-up singles

Views: My Prerogative

Quia — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 13:38:02 +0000

Who ever said business is not personal lied. Just ask Tiger Woods and every other celebrity and athlete if their personal affairs have ever affected their business deals. Sponsorships have been pulled, endorsements have been re-evaluated and talent appearances have been reduced all in the name of “personal affairs” gone bad.

Rock This: Spring Suede

Quia — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 13:08:16 +0000

It seems like the seasonal rules of fashion are subjective these days. In the colder months, designers gave us winter sandals in leather and suede, in dark hues with studs and cut-outs. Pushing the envelope yet again, we're seeing lightweight winter fabrics dipped in pretty pastels--for example Aldo's peach platform heels

Views: Soul’cial Divide

Quia — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 04:40:13 +0000

When Reggie Bush, who dated Kim Kardashian, is featured on Black magazine covers, Black women are outraged and boycott the magazine. But when Paula Patton, married to Robin Thicke, is featured in movies, Black women run to the box offices in support

Train Stop Tuesday: Soul Train Dancers move to “Live it Up”

Quia — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 13:34:19 +0000

As the Isley Brothers encourage us all to "Live It Up" several members of the Soul Train gang can be seen wearing this season's hue du jour--yellow

Sound Check: Who Is Lee?

Quia — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 12:01:39 +0000

He has a deep voice, smooth delivery, and lyrics that feature an incredible amount of honesty. His name is Lee Some. people are familiar with him from his role as the lead vocalist of The Square Egg

Views: The Unthinkable… Are You Ready?

Quia — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 15:25:34 +0000

Although goals and aspirations should be consistent key factors in our lives, we must also learn how to walk the thin line of goal setting and giving thanks because having the unthinkable is not always the thing we “think” we should have at a given time

Rock This: Busy Leggings

Quia — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 11:56:23 +0000

Do you wear a uniform to work? Well it's quitting time, and the fashion rebel who breaks the shackles of neutrals is ready to leave that mild-mannered persona behind

Views: Soul Food

Quia — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 13:25:51 +0000

Turkey is like relationships. There’s a natural order involved and you have to prep them both. You can’t reverse the process and expect good results. However, most people ignore the process and get a burnt bird.

Train Stop Tuesday: “Disco Inferno” Fashion Flashback

Quia — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 14:21:06 +0000

Train Stop Tuesday is a fashion flashback as we go trendspotting to "Disco Inferno" by the Trampps. During this dance segment there are several styles that were a hit on the disco dance floor that are just as fashionable for spring

Soul-o-Meter: Craig David – Signed Sealed Delivered

Quia — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 12:32:58 +0000

Nearly 10 years after first topping UK charts as a teenaged sensation and becoming the youngest male solo artist achieve that feat, Craig David has released the album in homage to the Motown era

Views: Keep On

Quia — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 11:54:20 +0000

Lately I’ve been in an old school mood as I teach myself to learn the importance of applying wisdom learned from my elders. Most of us grown folks can use a little “parenting” once in a while no matter how much we hate to admit it

Rock This: Neon Yellow Rocker Stripes

Quia — Thu, 15 Apr 2010 20:49:44 +0000

Everything old is new again. It seems like styles from the 80s are becoming more and more prevalent these days. Some things ought to stay buried, but there are a few key pieces that are enjoying a rad renaissance

Discover Music and More with MOG

Quia — Thu, 15 Apr 2010 13:18:29 +0000

The search for new and under the radar music is always a priority for myself as I surf the web while at work or at home. Until recently, I had depended on sites such as blip.fm, last.fm, Pandora and even Youtube to discover new music and hear portions of new albums

Views: Soul’cial Security

Quia — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 14:05:44 +0000

Every man should be masculine. Hyper-masculinity, however, is overcompensation for male insecurity. In fact, most men are insecure

Train Stop Tuesday: Trendspotting to “Jungle Boogie”

Quia — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 14:00:33 +0000

There is just so much to be said about this particular Soul Train line, where does one start? First of all, "Jungle Boogie" is pretty much the epitome of a funk-soul party song.

Rock This: Weitzman Jellies for the Summer

Quia — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 07:46:46 +0000

Over the past few seasons, designers have began adding jellies to their shoe collections, some with mixed outcomes. However, Stuart Weitzman has introduced the line's first-ever jelly collection for Spring/Summer 2010 and they are simply darling.

Bootsy Collins’ Online School of Funk

Quia — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 12:33:05 +0000

According to FastCompany.com, legendary funk guitarist Bootsy Collins is launching an online funk academy specifically for up and coming bassists. The prestigious Funk University is being billed as “the world’s first funk university for bass players of planet Earth.”

Soul-o-Meter: Usher – Raymond vs. Raymond

Quia — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 12:23:23 +0000

Usher's sixth LP, Raymond v. Raymond, is possibly the most important album he's released to date. Primarily because it trails his very public life changes. Raymond has long outgrown the image he had as a child artist

Views: Mama Used to Say

Quia — Fri, 09 Apr 2010 11:46:13 +0000

I spent most of my childhood wishing I was older. Now in 2010, as a grown woman with “old” responsibilities, I’m remembering all things mama used to say…

Diary of a Soul Train Dancer – Part 2

Quia — Fri, 09 Apr 2010 03:20:33 +0000

People may or may not know that Soul Train was entirely shot out of sequence. The performers usually taped their segments first and then the dance segments were done, then the Scramble Board and the last thing taped was the Soul Train line

Diary of a Soul Train Dancer

Quia — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 14:06:53 +0000

I danced on the legendary Soul Train from the late 90s to the mid-2000's, predominantly during the Shemar Moore era. Some would say that makes me a former Soul Train dancer but I say once a Soul Train dancer always a Soul Train dancer

Views: Over-Souled

Quia — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 13:41:42 +0000

As quickly as it became trendy, maybe it’s time for hate to go out of style – both the overused word and the actual act of hating itself. It seems like everyone claims that they’re being “hated on” nowadays. Just listen to the lyrics of most hip-hop songs. Or even listen to the average conversations

Train Stop Tuesday: Freda Payne Performs Band of Gold

Quia — Tue, 06 Apr 2010 13:24:41 +0000

The lovely and talented Freda Payne performs her chart-topping hit, "Band of Gold" for the Soul Train gang as they show off their laid back dance moves. It's so simple to get lost in her sweet, soulful soprano and uptempo melody that the heartbreaking lyrics seem to coast by

Soul-o-Meter: Erykah Badu – New Amerykah Part Two: Return of the Ankh

Quia — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 13:55:56 +0000

Whether this review is glowing, or vitriolic, Badu is far too polarizing a personality to make anyone waver in their views. The sad thing is, her latest effort, New Amerykah Part Two: Return of the Ankh, is just as stuck in neutral as her fans and detractors are

Views: A Real Girl In a Barbie World

Quia — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 01:17:19 +0000

I understand that some things are all in good fun, but why is it we have this fixation with this princess of plastic perfection? Is it because she was one of our first friends or because she helped us visualize how glamorous our lives could be as grown-ups

Viewpoints: No Soul

Quia — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 13:59:22 +0000

From online screen names, to mall-rats and beyond, you will see traces of the Barbie phenomenon. It has suddenly become “cute” to be lifeless, look blankly ahead and tilt your dome. No disrespect to Nicki Minaj, because what she does is entertainment. She receives large paychecks for her Barbie-like persona. But, what’s your excuse

Viewpoints: What Does India Arie Think About Badu’s “Window Seat” Video?

Quia — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 01:35:31 +0000

Creative expression and introspective explanations aside, it's beyond ironic that Badu's “straight naked video” was filmed a mere five days before fellow Neo-Soul singer India Arie voiced her disagreement with Beyonce and Lady Gaga's “Telephone” video.

Train Stop Tuesday: The Dramatics “Get Up and Get Down”

Quia — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 13:46:18 +0000

Most Generation X kids were first introduced to the fabulous Dramatics on Snoop Dogg's "Doggy Dogg World" from the Doggystyle album.

Views: Erykah Badu’s “Window Seat” – Perfectly Imperfect

Quia — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 16:37:10 +0000

Aside from the obvious JFK visual-reference, and the monologue at the end of the song about the powers that be who stifle creativity and forces they don't understand, there's another message that a lot of ladies can learn from

Soul-o-Meter: Omarion – Ollusion

Quia — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 13:35:24 +0000

Omarion's third offering, Ollusion, is vaguely reminiscent of the bubble gum pop genre that made him famous back in 2002, when he fronted the urban boy band

Viewpoints: Whatta Man

Quia — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 14:15:36 +0000

For those of you who are from the Salt-n-Pepa era you should know about their classic 1993 hit titled “Whatta Man.”

ChaCha Gets Social With ChaCha.me

Quia — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 13:11:05 +0000

ChaCha.me is a new initiative by Chacha.com that allows fans and customers of popular (and not so popular) individuals and brands to ask questions directly to the source

Viewpoints: Soul-ed a Dream

Quia — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 14:17:57 +0000

Technology is sexy. It’s been known to help build amazing careers, create Academy Award-winning films and is responsible for cultivating most of your favorite albums

Train Stop Tuesday: The Soul Train Dancers

Quia — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 14:05:57 +0000

The Soul Train dancers have always been nearly as popular as the chart-topping artists that appeared on Soul Train.

Sound Check: One on One with Maiysha

Quia — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 13:32:15 +0000

After spending half a dozen years in the studio, Maiysha earned a Grammy nomination in 2009 from her very first single, “Wanna Be,” which is off of her independently released debut album, This Much Is True

Viewpoints: I Wonder

Quia — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 14:08:53 +0000

It wasn’t until recently that I actually internalized the lyrics from my favorite song. Kanye’s curious chorus, “I wonder if you know what it means to find your dreams,” made me really stop and think if people really do know what it means to live their dreams?

Soul-o-Meter: Nneka – Concrete Jungle

Quia — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 14:20:50 +0000

Nneka Egbuna hails from this region so plagued by oil war, using her upbringing as a springboard to create an inspiring brand of music that is now making its way to North America with her February 2 U.S. debut Concrete Jungle

Viewpoints: Soul-Check

Quia — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:08:26 +0000

In 1982, George Clinton suggested that all men are dogs, with his hit record, “Atomic Dog.” Twenty-eight years later there’s just no truth in that suggestion.

Train Stop Tuesday: The Sylvers perform “Wish That I Could Talk to You”

Quia — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 15:37:12 +0000

It's easy to be fooled by the big smiles and soothing melodies as the fabulous Sylvers sing their love song. "Wish That I could Talk to You" is a ballad full of the doubts of a lover seeking answers

Style: Rihanna’s Rude Gal Stylee

Quia — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 16:05:41 +0000

Rihanna's single “Rude Boy” hit the airwaves with almost perfect timing, poised to be one of the summer time hits. The photo stills and behind the scenes footage showed her in various, second-skin catsuits, perched atop wild animal statues.

Viewpoints: Aint Nobody

Quia — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 13:06:29 +0000

It’s still a mystery to me why so many men let good women go simply because they can’t or don’t appreciate her worth

TheGrio’s 100: Mary Spio, reaching beyond the stars

Quia — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 14:49:57 +0000

“Deep Space Engineer” is no movie role for Mary Spio; it’s the title the Syracuse and Georgia Tech alumna held at Ultra Corp before moving on to PanAmSat Corporation as a Senior Satellite Applications Engineer.

Viewpoints: The Soul-oution

Quia — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 14:17:18 +0000

James Brown told me this is a man’s world, but decided that it would be nothing without a woman. I've decided the same

Train Stop Tuesday: Trendspotting to “Backstabbers” by The O’Jays

Quia — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 14:47:58 +0000

Today's installment of Train Stop Tuesday wasn't even intended to be a trendspotting piece but we'd be remiss if we didn't direct your attention to the ensemble of Mr. Don Cornelius

Soul-o-Meter: Nick Jonas & the Administration – Who I Am

Quia — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 15:03:20 +0000

For those of you who know Nick Jonas as one of the three Jonas Brothers, the triad that sends teenyboppers into a frenzy and Disney straight to the bank, calm your fears, Who I Am has nothing to do with any of that

Views: Gold Diggers

Quia — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 14:59:37 +0000

In the last few weeks bloggers and other entertainment and gossip sites have been commenting on the pint-sized money seekers featured on the Tyra Banks show last week.

Style: Runway vs. Real Way

Quia — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 14:25:58 +0000

With entertainers channeling more and more of their fashion influence from the runways of Fashion Week across the globe they've manage to pull off some of the most interesting looks we've seen in a long time

Viewpoints: Sou-long

Quia — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 11:00:27 +0000

Unlike Boyz II Men, many couples are finding it quite easy to say goodbye to yesterday–and today, and tomorrow. It seems severed ties are in fashion and giving up is the latest trend. It’s amazing how we treat each other as if we're disposable

Train Stop Tuesday: The Jackson 5 performs “Dancing Machine”

Quia — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 14:40:48 +0000

The Robot was always popular with the Soul Train dancers, but a young Michael Jackson took it to the next level. Check out his quick, pop-locking moves, the foot-work, the quick spin and the robotic glare on his face--he was committed

Breaking News: Gang Starr’s Guru in Coma After Cardiac Arrest

Quia — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 13:59:00 +0000

Not long after the news began to spread, Guru's long-time friend and collaborator, DJ Premier called Hip Hop Nation on Sirius radio and confirmed the reports and announced that Guru is scheduled for surgery the following day

Soul-o-Meter: Jaheim – Another Round

Quia — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 12:00:32 +0000

Jaheim, frontman of the “Thug R&B” genre, has taken another crack at maintaining the title with Another Round. Round is the first album from Jaheim since The Makings of a Man back in 2007.

Viewpoints: Why is Nicki Minaj co-host of BET’s Rip the Runway?

Quia — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:46:30 +0000

I get that Rip the Runway is a mash-up, an alliance celebrating the affair between music and fashion. I also get that the hosts usually should be to a degree popular and fashionable. But the pairing Nicki Minaj and Pooch Hall gives me pause.

Viewpoints: Call Me

Quia — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 14:14:46 +0000

Ever since I heard the new song “Call Me” by rapper Joel Ortiz this weekend, I couldn't get its catchy phrase out of my head. For all my old-schoolers, it reminds you of that song by Skyy that goes “call me, when you need someone to talk to / call me, satisfaction guaranteed.”

Viewpoints: We Need to Do Better

Quia — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 01:06:31 +0000

We've got to get it together—we, as black people in the marketplace. For every successful black professional representing us and our image to the fullest, we have a slew of others that make it difficult to engage black business.

Viewpoints: Souled Out

Quia — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 23:07:23 +0000

"Sellout" is somewhat of a curse word to most artists, yet most artists are selling out in order to sellout–of records that is. The art of the creative process in developing quality instrumentation and production coupled with timeless lyrics is simply being compromised for success.

The Best of Soul Train Now Available on DVD

Quia — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 23:34:51 +0000

For many, classic episodes of Soul Train offer a sense of nostalgia—a look back to political strides during the Civil Rights Movement, songs of black power and upliftment, as well as the dawning of some of the greatest talents in black music. Every Saturday, families gathered around the television to learn the next hottest thing

Train Stop Tuesday: Classic Episode featuring Stevie Wonder

Quia — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 16:51:23 +0000

"The Sound of Philadelphia" is the official tune of the Soul Train series, but in this installment of Train Stop Tuesday, we get a sneak peek of Steve Wonder putting together his own musical homage.

Soul-o-Meter: Sade – Soldier of Love

Quia — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 17:24:41 +0000

It’s been ten years since her last studio album, but don’t mistake the long delay for a lack of inspiration. For Sade it was really all about quality control.

Viewpoints: What’s Love Got to Do With It?

Quia — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:56:48 +0000

We ladies often believe a man truly loves us even though he may cheat, lie, or abuse us. It’s not surprising to hear a woman say “He may be with her, but he loves me” or, “Even though we fight, curse and argue, we still love each other.” Really

Viewpoints: How Old is Too Old For Urban Apparel?

Quia — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 15:29:58 +0000

What has come into question more than once in my circle of friends is, “How old is too old to rock a pair of Dereon jeans with the brand name painted in gold across the butt?”

Viewpoints: Soul-Ties

Quia — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 22:15:38 +0000

Popular culture and media often portray sex as a casual act that we can commit with whomever, wherever and whenever it feels right. Music often suggests that it’s okay to follow all of our sexual desires, but fails to inform us of the not so obvious consequences of Soul-Ties

Train Stop Tuesday: Ike & Tina Turner perform “Proud Mary”

Quia — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 18:45:13 +0000

There's nothing new under the sun. If you're a fan of Beyonce's weave-slinging, hip-popping, booty-rolling, hard-wailing performances then you ought to know that she is a big fan of Tina Turner

Will Google Bring High Speed Internet to the Hood? Probably Not.

Quia — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 15:35:35 +0000

Google repeatedly mentions that they want to make internet access available for everyone and even urges anyone (the general public and local officials) to submit their city or town for consideration. My bet is that these test location won’t be in any inner cities where the probability of budding minority entrepreneurs can take advantage of such high speeds to build “killer apps.” And if this is the case, how can Google report findings on usage or deployments in a truly comprehensive way

Viewpoints: My Latest and Greatest Inspiration

Quia — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 15:15:29 +0000

In celebration of Black History Month and the Black History Movement, this week my viewpoint is an open letter to Soul Train, its music and the amazing artists that have changed the world with their words.

Viewpoints: Soul-language

Quia — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 23:36:03 +0000

In Jamie Foxx’s newest single, he explains that “he can’t speak French but he’ll tongue you down.” Cleverly put, but I’m sure most ladies would prefer a hello first. You don’t arrive at a destination without traveling to get there, and you don’t rush intimacy without speaking to a lady first

Train Stop Tuesday: Al Green performs “Here I Am”

Quia — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 21:47:06 +0000

This installment of Train Stop Tuesday is anticipation of the re-airing of the VH1 Rock Doc, "Soul Train: The Hippest Trip In America."

Viewpoints: On Soulful Tracks: Teddy Pendergrass

Quia — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 16:45:18 +0000

Much to the delight of the women in attendance (and to those watching at home) Pendergrass’ shirt hung open inviting their eyes to window shop, his spicy-taco-meat-like hairy chest made their eyes water.

Viewpoints: My Epiphany on Wanting to Be Successful

Quia — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 16:08:28 +0000

Back in the day, all I wanted was to be successful. Even though that still hasn’t changed, back then I really didn’t know the true meaning of success--all I knew is that I wanted and needed it.

Asha the Intern: VH1 Documentary Screening

Quia — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 18:21:45 +0000

Last Friday I found myself in Beverly Hills at the Paley Center, sharing space with Don Cornelius. We were there for the screening of VH1 Rock Docs' "Soul Train: The Hippest Trip In America."

Viewpoints: Soul Mates

Quia — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 16:29:49 +0000

Remember the days when being a bachelor was big business? Or when investing in the sexiest women in for portfolio increased your stock? How about when being a player was a necessary component to your cool?

Train Stop Tuesday: Don Cornelius interviews Richard Pryor

Quia — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 15:56:23 +0000

Though Soul Train is known for musical performances and the world-famous Soul Train dancers, Don Cornelius didn't pass up the opportunity to let Richard Pryor share his comedic genius with Soul Train's captive audience

Style: Q&A with Celeb Stylist Amoy

Quia — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 15:15:07 +0000

From sleekly styling the tresses of such stars as Naomi Campbell, Alicia Keys, Sheryl Crow and Rihanna, to crafting the hair designs on runways of such legendary fashion hours as Christian Dior, hairstylist, Amoy has established herself as an authority on all things beauty and style

“The Hippest Trip In America” debuts during African American Heritage Month

Quia — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 06:14:25 +0000

From President Barack Obama's place as the 44th American President to Beyonce's recent record-breaking six Grammy Award wins, African Americans confidently, and consistently take their place in the record books. Among them of course, is Don Cornelius as the first African American to have ownership of a television show

Viewpoints: Say Something

Quia — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 15:08:04 +0000

If I could say anything right now, it would be, “I am in love with the Drake and Timbaland collaboration entitled 'Say something'.” Drake not only sounds extremely seductive demanding his need to hear some form of words, he is raising an issue on a deficiency many of us have--communication

Celeb 2.0: Pharrell Discusses Engaging fans in the Digital Era (Video)

Quia — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 14:52:08 +0000

Artist/producer Pharrell Williams sits down with Cornerstone co-CEO Rob Stone to discuss a number of different topics including how artist can engage their fans in the digital era, as well as his semi-new property Artst.com (Artist without the i cause its about you not me – Pharrell Williams)

Soul-O-Meter: Melanie Fiona – The Bridge

Quia — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 14:32:23 +0000

With a strong and sultry voice and penchant for incorporating a variety of styles into her neo soul-flavored pop music, it's easy to see why Melanie Fiona's reputation precedes her

Asha the Intern: Making Music with Musiq

Quia — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 20:38:32 +0000

This time, I'm broadcasting from Delaware, to catch up with my close, personal friend (oops, I wasn't supposed to tell you guys that), Musiq. He was performing at Dover Downs Resort & Casino, so I decided to take in the show and meet him backstage to chat him up

Viewpoints: Going Soul-O

Quia — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 16:46:53 +0000

Being single isn’t as bad as society makes it out to be. Sure, love is a beautiful concept meant for two compatible people, but biological clocks force some women into bad relationships

Train Stop Tuesday: George McCrae sings “Rock Me Baby”

Quia — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 16:40:50 +0000

Before we discuss how much of a classic disco sound this song has, we need to take a moment and dig this 1970s fashion. George McCray's studded, black suit absolutely cannot be touched. Brotherman is sharp--peep the hand outline on his left arm, and the crescent moon on his right leg, and that eagle pendant? Boy, stop!

SOUL-O-METER: R. Kelly – Untitled

Quia — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 15:39:06 +0000

After the lackluster Double Up in 2007, R. Kelly returns with Untitled. The thing is, once an artist has established his career and built his fanbase, it's rare that they release an untitled album. That strategy is reserved for those eager crooners who can only hope to have half the success that Kelly's received thus far

Viewpoints: Bad Habits

Quia — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 15:25:37 +0000

If anyone can make you feel good about having a bad habit or yearning for the sweetest taboo it is Maxwell and Sade. The sensual way Maxwell croons his addictions makes you want to satisfy his fix anytime. Plus the sexy sound of Sade’s sweetest taboo makes you want to touch the forbidden fruit.

PREMIERE SCREENING: VH1 ROCK DOCS-LA

arisha — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 22:42:01 +0000

PREMIERE SCREENING: VH1 ROCK DOCS, Soul Train: The Hippest Trip in America, Friday, January 29, 2010, 7:00 pm PT-Los Angeles

PREMIERE SCREENING: VH1 ROCK DOCS-NY

arisha — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 22:32:51 +0000

New York - PREMIERE SCREENING: VH1 ROCK DOCS, Soul Train: The Hippest Trip in America, Wednesday, January 27, 2010, 6:30 pm

Asha the Intern: Chopping it Up with DJ Drama

Quia — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 14:44:41 +0000

I was in Atlanta for the last episode of Asha the Intern, when I interviewed Lloyd and Sammie. But there was no way I could be in town without stopping by to talk to Atlanta’s number one deejay, DJ Drama. He was Mixtape Daily’s DJ of the Year in 2009, not to mention he’s T.I.’s

Train Stop Tuesday: “You Make Me Feel Brand New” by the Stylistics

Quia — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 16:29:50 +0000

The audible agreement from the crowd as the name of the song was announced is an indicator of just how ready the Soul Train dancers were ready to groove to this timeless jam. As they took their partners to begin a slow two-step, it makes one wonder how many love connections were made that day

Celeb 2.0: Wyclef Responds to Accusations Against Yele

Quia — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 16:13:38 +0000

Almost as soon as the crisis in Haiti occurred, the word came out that you could text “Yele” to 501501 to easily donate money. This resulted in over 2 million dollars being raised by the organization to aid those in need. As is usually the case when this type of money is involved, some decided to dig into Yele’s financial records. What they found raised some eyebrows but, in the grand scheme of things, was irrelevant

Viewpoints: She’s Got Her Own

Quia — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 15:25:00 +0000

A few weeks ago I wrote an article about the state of our black marriages in music and in real life titled “Let’s Get Married”. In the article I questioned our commitment to not only each other but to our quest in supporting music that represents our morals and values. Since that post, I have had many readers (specifically women) request that I address the issue that they deem is the result of their lack of matrimony – “having their own”.

Soul Legend Teddy Pendergrass Dies in Pa. at 59

arisha — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 05:39:24 +0000

Last night, iconic singer Teddy Pendergdrass, died at Philadelphipa's Bryn Mawr Hospital at the age of 59. The singer's son, Teddy Pendergrass II, reports that his father endured a difficult recovery following surgery for colon cancer eight months ago

Asha the Intern: In ATL with Lloyd and Sammie

Quia — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 17:59:24 +0000

I have to admit, I knew he was an attractive singer with true talent, but when I saw him in person I completely understood why the Spelman girls chased him (and me, after all, I'm sure they recognized me). They were running and screaming at the top of their lungs; it was a total frenzy

Viewpoints: Lone Souls

Quia — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 15:57:11 +0000

Despite an increase in chivalry and the return of gentleman, millions of contemporary women pride themselves on being able to take care of life on their own. Turn on the radio and you’ll hear Beyonce rallying all independent women to throw their hands up at her, while Webbie provides grammar school lessons spelling out I-N-D-E-P-E-N-D-E-N-T.

Train Stop Tuesday: Tears of a Clown

Quia — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 20:25:10 +0000

As we're jamming to "Tears of a Clown," let's take a look at some classic Soul Train style that is still relevant today. Check out the couple doing the robot, the sister's pantsuit looks like something that could be en vogue now, especially with that thick red belt

Viewpoints: Transform You

Quia — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 19:35:50 +0000

It’s time to transform the old you into the new and improved you. There is no need to wait for Chris Brown, Lil’ Wayne, Swizz Beatz, or anyone else to change your life for the better because the only person that can make a difference is yourself.

On Soulful Tracks: Shalamar

Quia — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 17:25:44 +0000

On Soulful Tracks is a series dedicated to the memories and pop culture landmarks Soul Train has represented in one writer’s life. We encourage you to share your own Soul Train memories. I heard the Train coming, and I started to smile. I was a young boy no bigger than little, a quarter the size

Soul-o-Meter: Mary J. Blige – Stronger With Each Tear

Quia — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:51:21 +0000

There are few contemporary artists who have enjoyed the career longevity of Mary J. Blige. Stronger With Each Tear, her ninth studio album represents a collective of her growth as an artist as well as a dedication to the “hip hop-soul” that skyrocketed her to stardom. Even though the days of cassette tapes and the A-side,

Soul-o-meter: Chris Brown – Grafitti

Quia — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:02:30 +0000

It's a wonder if Chris Brown's latest effort is entitled Grafitti because he wants us all to read the writing on the wall—he knows he made a mess of his relationship, but now that he's single he's got money to spend courting new ladies

VH1 Docs Re-airs: ‘Soul Train: The Hippest Trip In America’

Quia — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 21:45:20 +0000

To commemorate the show’s 40th anniversary, VH1 Rock Docs and Soul Train present “Soul Train: The Hippest Trip In America,” a monumental 90-minute documentary celebrating the show’s impact on pop culture, music, dance and fashion.

Asha the Intern: Talking with Trey Songz

Quia — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 06:31:39 +0000

Everyone wants to know the perks of being an intern for Soul Train. There are so many, but hanging out with Trey Songz has got to be one of my favorites. He is such the southern gentleman

Soul-o-Meter: Alicia Keys – The Element of Freedom

Quia — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 18:08:59 +0000

It's a bittersweet thing to see one of your favorite artists evolve only to come to the conclusion that you're not feeling the direction they're now going.

Train Stop Tuesday: “On and On” with Gladys Knight and the Pips

Quia — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 13:22:29 +0000

Performing a song from the Claudine movie soundtrack, Miss Gladys Knight is giving us pure fever with “On and On.”

Soul-o-Meter: Robin Thicke – Sex Therapy

Quia — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 13:04:43 +0000

In a nutshell, it seems like Thicke fancied himself a sex therapist—in France—for the concept of this album. With a stout 17 tracks, the album is substantial enough to forward past the few suspect songs without really cheating yourself out of the love/dance/sex experience he's delivered

Viewpoints: Is Sex All We Have to Offer?

Quia — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 01:19:24 +0000

Soul Train Nation, how many of you, as parents, have been driving your children to school, listening to the morning talk show only for their conversation to gravitate towards the topic of sex?

Viewpoints: Let’s Get Married

Quia — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 17:22:02 +0000

Once again black women and the lack of good black men to marry them are the topic of conversation in mainstream media. The recent segment on successful black women having everything except love on ABC’s “Dateline” has many single black women cringing once again at the hopelessness portrayed of them in their quest to find a good man

Train Stop Tuesday: The Intruders Perform “Cowboys to Girls”

Quia — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 19:27:34 +0000

Ahh, young love. Who doesn't have childhood memories of interactions with the opposite sex? Terrorizing that young boy or girl who you had a thing for seemed to be the only way to express your feelings. The Intruders know all about it too, but as the lead singer so smoothly revealed, he quickly learned that girls were for kissing, not sucker-punches to the shoulder

Viewpoints: Soul Style

Quia — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 15:13:56 +0000

As men, why do we submit ourselves to these caveman-like standards: the same underwear for days, dirty clothes and lack of grooming? I am not suggesting putting on a dress, hair and make-up, but a little masculine grooming will go a long way. A gentleman’s wardrobe should contain collections that reflect a cultured way of

Viewpoints: It Kills Me

Quia — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 15:02:32 +0000

As new songstress Melanie Fiona sings her lyrical homicide, “It kills me to know how much I really love you”, I’m busy dialing 911 for the millions of women who are feeling the exact same love pains. Although I know Melanie was just singing from her heart it “kills” me to know that she is not alone.

Celeb 2.0: Ad Supported Mixtapes – A New Media Model for Music

Quia — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 16:12:44 +0000

There was a great write up on venture capitalist Fred Wilson’s AVC.com about the release of Lupe Fiasco’s new mixtape, Enemy of the State. You’re probably asking, why would a VC blog about a mixtape? Well unlike most mixtapes, Lupe’s new album included a brief 31-second Hewlett Packard commercial entitled “HP skit”. The commercial, which is

Train Stop Tuesday: The Main Ingredient performs “Everybody Plays the Fool”

Quia — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 21:44:31 +0000

Cuba Gooding, Jr.'s daddy is slaying you all in his sequined blazer. The only thing that comes close to the flair and dazzle that he serving up his funky-fresh number, is his crooning. Ladies, if you met him down there on the Soul Train dance floor, would you ever be able to stand it

Viewpoints: Show Us Your Soul

Quia — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 22:27:06 +0000

With artists like Beyoncé, T.I. and Mary J. Blige embracing their alter egos, the remainder of the common world is suddenly finding it sociably acceptable to embrace theirs. Scientific research has long demonstrated the power of suggestion in perception as well as the strong effects of expectations

SOUL-O-METER: Donell Jones – The Lost Files

Quia — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 21:50:15 +0000

Crooner Donell Jones, has returned to the scene after the release of Journey of a Gemini three years ago. His latest offering, The Lost Files, is a collection of tracks “from the past”, that never made it onto his previous albums

Viewpoints: On to the Next One

Quia — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 04:07:28 +0000

In a few weeks the year 2010 will arrive with hopes and dreams for many of us. We will make a couple of New Year’s resolutions and vow to start the year with a fresh, new perspective. But with the coming of a new year we should also keep in mind that January 1st is not the only time to step our game up

Asha the Intern: Talking with Monica & Nikki Minaj

Quia — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 23:36:08 +0000

Asha is afforded the opportunity to interact with some amazing entertainers as she makes her way through Tinsel Town. There are so many questions bubbling inside that she'd like to ask the celebs, but Asha prefers to let conversations progress naturally.

Celeb 2.0: I Am T-Pain Version 1.1: The Holiday Edition

Quia — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:48:25 +0000

Maybe Jay-Z got it wrong. Perhaps there’s no such thing as T-Painin’ too much. The king of Auto-Tune continues to make some serious change of the voice distortion gimmick. His “I Am T-Pain” app for iPhone has been a huge success since it became available back in September. To date, there have been approximately 10.2

Train Stop Tuesday: Bobby Womack is “Looking for Love”

Quia — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 15:12:22 +0000

It's easy to get swept up into this uptempo groove by "Superbad" Bobby Womack. There's no desperation, there's excitement and hope. He's looking for a love to call his own and with that kind of energy you're hoping that he finds her.

Soul-o-Meter: Leona Lewis – Echo

Quia — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 15:28:19 +0000

When her 2007 debut Spirit triggered Leona Lewis’ professional career, the former X Factor (Britain’s version of American Idol) champ set out to live up to the enormous expectations that come with a passionate endorsement from Simon Cowell.

Viewpoints: Why We Should Break Up

Quia — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 14:34:25 +0000

Breaking promises and unfaithfulness are all valid reasons to fire someone from their beau responsibilities. It’s doesn’t—or shouldn’t matter if the cheater keeps you laced in Gucci, Louis Vuitton or dives deep in the bedroom. Disloyalty and deception is wrong and should be addressed as such

Viewpoints: A Hair Affair

Quia — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 07:43:39 +0000

On the heels of Chris Rock's documentary “Good Hair,” black women across the country had plenty to say on the topic. Opinions ranged from “hair is an accessory, wear it as such,” to ideas that Indian women were being exploited in the global trade of their sacrificed hair. There were equally strong arguments on both sides

Asha the Intern: Why Asha Should Host the New Soul Train

Quia — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 17:55:39 +0000

Despite her petite stature, Asha's personality is larger than life. This bit of info first became evident when the bosses at Soul Train noticed that, instead of walking, she preferred to dance down a Soul Train line in the office. They decided the staff would be less distracted if she weren't physically in the office every day—Asha belonged on the red carpet

Train Stop Tuesday: A Brighter Side of Darkness performs “Love Jones”

Quia — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 16:13:38 +0000

Max Julian, you have met your match. But these cold-blooded brothers aren't whispering pimp game, they're all about love game. This melody is half-prose and half-song, but all soul as our main man lays it all on the line for his special lady.

GRAMMY Nominees Use Social Web to Increase Audience

Quia — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:02:31 +0000

The 52nd Annual GRAMMY Awards’ nominees were recently announced in 20 different categories. Among some of them were urban music powerhouses Lalah Hathaway, Ledisi, Maxwell, Eric Roberson, and Foreign Exchange. What’s special about these nominees though, is how each has used popular social networking sites, online video, blogging, and podcasting to both increase and interact with their respective fan bases

Sound Check: Dionne – Moving Dreams into Reality

admin — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 04:30:46 +0000

Some people were born to sing. Even their speaking voice possesses a musical flourish to its tone.
Meet Southern Soul singer Dionne.

Views: Soul’y For The Men

admin — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 20:36:55 +0000

Ladies want to know the way men think.
Bereola sheds light on the nuances of male/female communication.

Celeb 2.0: GRAMMY Nominees Use Social Web to Increase Audience

Quia — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 04:22:15 +0000

On December 3, the 52nd Annual GRAMMY Awards’ nominees were announced in 20 different fields. Among some of them were urban music powerhouses Lalah Hathaway, Ledisi, Maxwell, Eric Roberson, and Foreign Exchange. What’s special about these nominees though is how each has used the popular social networking sites, online video, blogging, and podcasting to both

Feature: The Gap

admin — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 04:29:55 +0000

There is a generational gap between artists today.
The younger generation pays homage to the older in different ways, and sometimes not at all.

Viewpoints: Just Throw It In the Bag?

Quia — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 04:31:59 +0000

Has Fabolous’s hit single “Throw It In the Bag” changed the world of dating for better or for worse? Has his colossal-sized attitude towards money raised the stakes for men to play in the “game”? Or has he tricked both men and women into thinking that they've got it, and should forget what price tags are?

Soul-o-Meter: Kem – Intimacy

admin — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 20:34:39 +0000

Jazzy Soul crooner Kem returns with his third album.
Intimacy is a smooth and enchanting listen.

Asha the Intern: Full Circle at the Soul Train Awards

Quia — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 02:15:43 +0000

Just three years ago, Asha found herself amidst the celebrities, entertainment industry execs, and flashing lights of the Soul Train Awards. Without much of a reason to be there beyond a budding acting and choreography career, Asha bogarded her way into the company of the biggest names in black music. It was an overwhelming and surreal experience that she'd not soon forget

Train Stop Tuesday

admin — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 04:29:09 +0000

We take a look at the fashion heritage of Disco to the sounds of Gloria Gaynor.
At first we were afraid, we were petrified...

Kelly Rowland Talks The Best of Soul Train on The Today Show

admin — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:01:28 +0000

Kelly shares her memories about what makes Soul Train so special.
Order your copy of The Best of Soul Train today.

Train Stop Tuesday: Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes Perform “If You Don’t Know Me By Now”

Quia — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 19:29:04 +0000

Say you have a significant other with whom you've invested a significant amount of time, you'd really think by this point in the relationship they would know you inside-out. But then you find yourself justifying and proving yourself to them time and time again. Soul brothers and sisters, this is your anthem and it's time for you and your main squeeze to have a serious talk.

2009 Soul Train Awards Recap

Quia — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 06:37:07 +0000

The highly-anticipated return of the Soul Train Awards was not an event taken lightly. From the very vein that Soul Train finds its lifeblood, the past and the present were bridged in perfect harmony. The tribute performances were the highlight of the evening. However, the show’s two uber-animated hosts, Taraji P. Henson and Terrence Howard,

The Bold Brought the Soul: Style at the 2009 Soul Train Awards

Quia — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 05:43:29 +0000

Following the comeback of the Soul Train Awards, we want to quickly pat Soul Train on the back for the contributions the show made to black culture. Many people can easily recall the show’s role in making black artists and new dances a part of everyday life. But, we can also wink and blush

Soul Train Awards 2009: Top 10 Reasons to Tune In

dana — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 22:56:13 +0000

The 2009 Soul Train Awards airs November 29, on Centric and BET at 8 p.m. CST/9 p.m. EST. Don’t forget to tune in—otherwise you may wake up on Monday morning and realize you’ve missed out on the Twitter commentary. Here are a few other reasons why the show can’t be missed: 1. Trey and Toni: The duo

Train Stop Tuesday: Jean Knight performs “Mr. Big Stuff”

Quia — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 03:40:22 +0000

Check out big, bad Jean Knight and her billowing bouffant hair. You can tell by her curt and sassy two-step, she believes in every word she's singing

Train Stop Tuesday: The Chi-Lites perform “Oh Girl”

Quia — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 02:33:24 +0000

“Oh Girl” is a timeless classic, unlike those oversize shirt collars. Some folks may have special memories to which this song is the soundtrack. Other folks are the result of those special memories. Unlike the bump and grind jams that dominate the airwaves these days, the Chi-Lites were singing about love. Of course at the end

Where To Watch Classic Soul Train Episodes

arisha — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 19:14:37 +0000

On September 28, CENTRIC premieres the original episode of the classic music show, SOUL TRAIN featuring

Love, Peace and Soul Reigned at the “Centric Presents: 2009 Soul Train Awards” Show Taping On Tuesday, November 3

arisha — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 18:49:47 +0000

On Tuesday, November 3, CENTRIC took viewers on a stirring ride aboard the “Soul Train” at the taping of the network’s first special, CENTRIC PRESENTS: 2009 SOUL TRAIN AWARDS hosted by Academy Award-nominated actors Taraji P. Henson and Terrence Howard. The night opened with a memorable performance by Toni Braxton featuring Trey Songz singing “Yesterday” that was sealed with a kiss.

The Return of the Soul Train Awards

Quia — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 18:45:36 +0000

After a two-year absence, the Soul Train Awards is poised to make a triumphant return to the scene. The star-studded celebration of soulful sounds bridges the gap between classic soul music of yesterday and the contemporary R&B movement of today

This is Soul Train

Quia — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 22:15:39 +0000

Soul Train is a movement From the days of Tina Turner and James Brown, through the rise of T-Pain and Trey Songz, Soul Train set the standard in music, style, and dance in our culture. And for more than 35 years, that legendary, grooving gold locomotive set bodies in motion and brought in the funk—whatever brand