In 1998, Timbaland and Blackground ruled hip-hop and R&B. Back then Timbaland was primarily working with hip-hop and R&B artists, mostly focusing on artists on his own imprint: Missy Elliot, Aaliyah, Ginuwine, and Playa. They gave us slowed down and uptempo erratic beats that had fans like wtf is this….this shit is tight!
Cheers 2 U was one of my favorite songs of the Timbaland/Blackground era, it was one of those songs you would dedicate to your boo on the radio. Or you would order the video on The Box, call your boo and be like, “I ordered that just for you..” And then your parents would see the charges on their phone bill for ordering music videos on TV, and would put a 1-900 block on the phone.
Enjoy this week’s throwback video, and have a wonderful and blessed weekend! *Besos*
I’m a total Raheem Devaughn groupie. I can admit it! Check out Raheem’s leaked track “I Don’t Care,” a mid-tempo groove from his third album, The Love and War Masterpiece.
Looks like Fantasia read the the Keyshia Cole manual for R&B singers to remain relevant. Fantasia’s reality series about her life airs on Jan 11, 2010 on VH1. Kudos to Fanny for getting herself together, looks like she’s trying to make it happen in 2010. I feel like 2010 will see many of us getting ourselves together, big things will be popping.
Gon head Fantasia, for working on that GED! Fanny is a hot mess most of the time, but I commend her for taking steps to complete her education. GED today, college degree tomorrow.
I hadn’t heard of Mateo until I saw him perform at UCLA Jazz Fest this past spring. His velvety voice dominated the audience’s attention…something hard for an unknown artist to do, especially in a place like Los Angeles where “who you are” usually trumps your talent. Mateo’s pretty mean on the 88 keys too, he’s multi-talented. “Get to know” Mateo, he’s worth the listen.
Funny how breakups and heartache can inspire creativity. Produced by Polow Da Don for Chris Brown’s upcoming album Graffiti, “So Cold” laments the loss of love. Nice song. I have a feeling Chris Brown and Rhianna will eventually get back together. Should she forgive him? Do you think he’s really sorry? Has he learned his lesson? Does he deserve a second chance?
Ok so, I’m a bit of a Soulja Boy hater, but I can’t deny the impact he’s had on the current hip hop youth culture. So please don’t be alarmed if you see his name cross my page, aight?
I saw this video on MTV Jams, and I thought it was a really cute song. I like the sound, it reminds me of the So So Def Bass All Stars sound of the mid 90s, with a bit of soulful house. Vistoso Bosses are adorable, talented, and they’re not naked. Positive role models for the lil’ mamas out there.
Amerie’s new video is dope, I love the cinematography and imagery. I’ve always wondered how come Amerie hasn’t hit the mainstream super hard like other R&B and Pop singers. She has the look, the style, and good energy. Could be that it isn’t her time yet? Or who knows, maybe she doesn’t want to be a megastar. Some people carve a niche for themselves and are happy with that. Maybe she wants to be recognized for her music rather than being shoved down people’s throats (Rhianna, anyone?). If Def Jam really wanted to sell Amerie to a mainstream audience, they would do it. That said, I admire Amerie’s consistency, because she continues to put out good music and doesn’t rely on gimmicks to appeal to her audience. She has a formula and she sticks to it. Work it, Amerie!
Reeeemiiiiiiix! Brandy’s remix for “I Wanna Be Down” featured EVERY dope female MC of the time. I wonder if they knew at the time this would be legendary? I think this was 94ish. I remember Yo-Yo being my fave, I loved her swag. Still do. And Ray J was little, lol. His curly top and Brandy’s wrap braids are killing me softly . Nostalgia!
. Nostalgia!