Community Over Everything...
A rocket takes off and leaves its boosters behind as it flies into outer space. It's a necessary part of the process for the ship to get where it's going and for the astronauts to finish their mission. There are a lot of people and materials that make the whole event possible. Some of those people even continue to monitor the ship's progress. Perhaps, out of admiration or desire, but also because, eventually, that ship has to return.
A rocket takes off and leaves its boosters behind as it flies into outer space. It's a necessary part of the process for the ship to get where it's going and for the astronauts to finish their mission. There are a lot of people and materials that make the whole event possible. Some of those people even continue to monitor the ship's progress. Perhaps, out of admiration or desire, but also because, eventually, that ship has to return.
As Andre 3000 says, "Spaceships don't come equipped with rearview mirrors, they dip as fast as they can." It's easy to let your ego get the best of you in this business, in any business, to be honest, but you can't treat people like they're disposable. Every tv show, movie, and album has multiple names in the credits that helped make that project a reality. Likewise, every company has shareholders, employees, and customers that help make it profitable. We don't exist in a vacuum. Everyone plays their part.
That being said, make sure you take care of yourself, your team, and your community. I pity the fool that gets everything they've ever wanted but burned everyone that helped them get it...
Keep your heart! Keep your heart!
- J.O.
The Collaborators
What's on your radar?
These are the joints that have our attention this month.
Just Like Movies
Just Like Tv
Just Like Music
Did we miss anything? Put us on to something that we need to check out: mcnxtv@mrjoliphant.com!
Coming Soon…
The Minority Connection
〰️
The Minority Connection 〰️
Artist Spotlight: Chaka Khan
Chaka Khan is an American singer, songwriter, and musician who has been entertaining audiences for over four decades. She is known for her powerful voice and unique style, which has helped to shape the landscape of music over the years. In this post, we will take a closer look at her career and the impact she has had on the industry.
Chaka Khan is an American singer, songwriter, and musician who has been entertaining audiences for over four decades. She is known for her powerful voice and unique style, which has helped to shape the landscape of music over the years. In this post, we will take a closer look at her career and the impact she has had on the industry.
Early Career:
Born on March 23, 1953, in Chicago, Illinois, Khan began her career as a member of the funk band Rufus in the 1970s. The band had a number of hits, including "Tell Me Something Good," which won a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.
Solo Career:
Khan launched her solo career in the late 1970s and went on to release a number of successful albums over the years. Her first solo album, "Chaka," was released in 1978 and included the hit single "I'm Every Woman." She continued to release chart-topping albums throughout the 1980s, including "Naughty" and "What Cha' Gonna Do for Me."
Album Discography:
Over the course of her career, Chaka Khan has released 13 studio albums and a number of compilation albums. Some of her most notable albums include:
"Chaka" (1978)
"Naughty" (1980)
"What Cha' Gonna Do for Me" (1981)
"Chaka Khan" (1982)
"I Feel for You" (1984)
"Destiny" (1986)
"Life Is a Dance: The Remix Project" (1989)
"Funk This" (2007)
Notable Accomplishments:
Chaka Khan has been recognized for her contributions to the music industry with numerous awards and honors over the years. She has won 10 Grammy Awards, including Best R&B Vocal Performance, Female, for her hit single "I Feel for You." In 2019, she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Rufus.
Legacy:
Chaka Khan's impact on the music industry cannot be overstated. Her powerful voice and unique style have helped to shape the sound of R&B and funk over the years. Her contributions to the world of music have been recognized and celebrated, and her legacy will continue to inspire and influence future generations of musicians.
In conclusion, Chaka Khan's career is a testament to her talent and dedication as a musician. From her early beginnings as a member of Rufus to her iconic solo albums and hits, she has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Her legacy will continue to entertain and inspire audiences for years to come.
Classic Album: Confessions - Usher
Confessions, Usher's fourth studio album, is a classic R&B record that showcases the singer's smooth vocals, impeccable songwriting, and irresistible hooks. Released in 2004, the album is a masterful blend of traditional R&B, pop, and hip-hop that has become a defining work of the early 2000s.
Confessions, Usher's fourth studio album, is a classic R&B record that showcases the singer's smooth vocals, impeccable songwriting, and irresistible hooks. Released in 2004, the album is a masterful blend of traditional R&B, pop, and hip-hop that has become a defining work of the early 2000s.
The album's lead single, "Yeah!," featuring Lil Jon and Ludacris, became an instant classic upon its release and is still a staple of dance floors and karaoke bars today. The track's infectious beat and catchy hook set the tone for the rest of the album, which is packed with hits like "Burn," "Confessions Part II," and "My Boo."
Tracks like "Superstar," "Bad Girl," and "Seduction" showcase Usher's versatility as an artist, with the singer effortlessly switching between sensual slow jams and uptempo bangers. The album's production, courtesy of a who's who of producers including Jermaine Dupri, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, and Bryan-Michael Cox, is equally impressive, with slick beats and intricate instrumentation that perfectly complement Usher's vocals.
One of the most impressive aspects of Confessions is the album's cohesive narrative, which centers around Usher's personal struggles with infidelity and love. The album's interludes and skits help to tie the tracks together, creating a compelling and immersive listening experience.
Overall, Confessions is a timeless R&B classic that cemented Usher's place as one of the most important artists of the 2000s. The album's impressive songwriting, catchy hooks, and irresistible beats make it a must-listen for fans of R&B and pop music.
Tracklist:
"Intro"
"Yeah!" (feat. Lil Jon and Ludacris)
"Throwback"
"Confessions (Interlude)"
"Confessions Part II"
"Burn"
"Caught Up"
"Superstar"
"Superstar (Interlude)"
"Truth Hurts"
"Simple Things"
"Bad Girl"
"That's What It's Made For"
"Can U Handle It?"
"Do It to Me"
"Take Your Hand"
"Follow Me"
"My Boo" (feat. Alicia Keys)
Release date: March 23, 2004
Artist Spotlight: Queen Latifah
Queen Latifah is an American rapper, singer, actress, and producer known for her unique voice and commanding presence. She has had a prolific career in the entertainment industry spanning over three decades, and her contributions to music, film, and television have made her one of the most respected and influential figures in the industry. In this post, we will take a closer look at her career, including her filmography and discography.
Queen Latifah is an American rapper, singer, actress, and producer known for her unique voice and commanding presence. She has had a prolific career in the entertainment industry spanning over three decades, and her contributions to music, film, and television have made her one of the most respected and influential figures in the industry. In this post, we will take a closer look at her career, including her filmography and discography.
Early Career:
Queen Latifah, whose real name is Dana Elaine Owens, was born on March 18, 1970, in Newark, New Jersey. She began her career as a rapper in the late 1980s, releasing her debut album "All Hail the Queen" in 1989. The album was a commercial success and included the hit singles "Ladies First" and "U.N.I.T.Y."
Breakthrough Roles:
Queen Latifah's breakthrough role as an actress came in 1991 when she appeared in the film "Jungle Fever." She went on to star in a number of other popular films, including "Set It Off," "Chicago," and "Hairspray." In recent years, she has also made a name for herself as a producer, with credits on hit television shows like "The Queen Latifah Show" and "Living Single."
Discography:
"All Hail the Queen" (1989)
"Nature of a Sista" (1991)
"Black Reign" (1993)
"Order in the Court" (1998)
"The Dana Owens Album" (2004)
"Trav'lin' Light" (2007)
"Persona" (2009)
Filmography:
Over the course of her career, Queen Latifah has appeared in a number of popular films and television shows. Some of her most notable roles include:
"Jungle Fever" (1991)
"Set It Off" (1996)
"Chicago" (2002)
“Brown Sugar” (2002)
"Bringing Down the House" (2003)
"Hairspray" (2007)
"Star" (2016-2019)
Notable Accomplishments:
Queen Latifah has been recognized for her contributions to the entertainment industry with numerous awards and honors over the years. She has won a Grammy Award, an Emmy Award, and three Screen Actors Guild Awards. In 2021, she was inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame.
Legacy:
Queen Latifah's impact on the entertainment industry cannot be overstated. Her powerful performances and commanding presence on screen have helped to establish her as one of the most respected and influential figures in Hollywood. Her work has helped to bring diverse and underrepresented stories to the forefront of the industry, and her legacy will continue to inspire and influence future generations of actors and filmmakers.
In conclusion, Queen Latifah's career as a rapper, singer, actress, and producer is a testament to her talent, hard work, and dedication to her craft. From her early beginnings as a rapper to her iconic performances in some of the most popular films and television shows of our time, she has established herself as a true master of her art. Her discography showcases her versatility as a musician, and her impact on the film and television industry has helped to redefine the representation of diverse voices in entertainment.
Classic Album: The 20/20 Experience - Justin Timberlake
The 20/20 Experience, Justin Timberlake's third studio album, is a refreshing departure from the pop star's previous works, showcasing a more mature and experimental sound. Released in 2013, the album marks a triumphant return for Timberlake after a six-year hiatus from the music industry.
The 20/20 Experience, Justin Timberlake's third studio album, is a refreshing departure from the pop star's previous works, showcasing a more mature and experimental sound. Released in 2013, the album marks a triumphant return for Timberlake after a six-year hiatus from the music industry.
The album's lead single, "Suit & Tie," features Jay-Z and serves as a perfect introduction to the album's sophisticated sound. The track's smooth production and Timberlake's soulful vocals set the tone for the rest of the album, which is a blend of R&B, pop, and funk.
Tracks like "Mirrors," "Don't Hold the Wall," and "Let the Groove Get In" showcase Timberlake's versatility as an artist, as he effortlessly blends different genres and styles into his music. The album's lush production, courtesy of Timbaland, provides a rich backdrop for Timberlake's vocals, with intricate beats and instrumentation that add depth and texture to the tracks.
One of the most impressive aspects of The 20/20 Experience is the album's consistency. From start to finish, the album maintains a high level of quality, with each track contributing to the overall experience. The album's pacing is also expertly crafted, with each song flowing seamlessly into the next, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience.
Lyrically, the album touches on themes of love, relationships, and self-reflection. Timberlake's lyrics are introspective and personal, with tracks like "Pusher Love Girl" and "That Girl" offering a glimpse into the singer's personal life.
Overall, The 20/20 Experience is a mature and sophisticated album that showcases Timberlake's growth as an artist. The album's intricate production and expertly crafted songs make it a standout release in the pop music landscape of the early 2010s.
Smile When I Want (Playlist)
An eclectic, irreverent playlist that defies convention and embraces the unpredictable. This audacious collection of tracks is designed for those who march to the beat of their own drum, celebrating individuality and the unapologetic pursuit of joy.
An eclectic, irreverent playlist that defies convention and embraces the unpredictable. This audacious collection of tracks is designed for those who march to the beat of their own drum, celebrating individuality and the unapologetic pursuit of joy.
"Smile When I Want" is a genre-bending journey through a myriad of musical styles, featuring an eccentric mix of artists who aren't afraid to push boundaries and challenge the status quo. From indie gems to cult classics, each song in this playlist bursts with character and charisma, sparking a grin on your face with every twist and turn.
This playlist is your trusted companion on a roller coaster ride through emotions, experiences, and musical experimentation. One moment, you'll find yourself dancing to an infectious beat, and the next, you'll be nodding along to a thought-provoking lyric that resonates with your soul.
"Smile When I Want" is the soundtrack to your unapologetic self-expression, embracing life's quirky moments and inviting you to let go of inhibitions. So crank up the volume, let your hair down, and revel in the freedom that comes from embracing the unexpected.
Get ready to embark on a wild, exhilarating adventure through sound, and remember - with "Smile When I Want," there are no rules, just pure, unfiltered expression. So smile, laugh, and dance whenever you want, because life's too short to be anything but yourself.
TIDAL
Spotify
Artist Spotlight: Bobby Caldwell
Bobby Caldwell is an American singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who has been active in the music industry since the 1970s. His unique blend of jazz, R&B, and soul has garnered him a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. In this post, we will take a closer look at his career and his discography.
Bobby Caldwell is an American singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who has been active in the music industry since the 1970s. His unique blend of jazz, R&B, and soul has garnered him a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. In this post, we will take a closer look at his career and his discography.
Early Career and Breakthrough:
Bobby Caldwell was born on August 15, 1951, in Manhattan, New York. His parents were both professional musicians, and he grew up surrounded by music. As a child, he learned to play multiple instruments, including piano, drums, and guitar. After graduating high school, he attended the University of Miami, where he studied music.
In 1978, Caldwell released his debut album, "What You Won't Do for Love," which became an instant hit. The title track reached #9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was covered by many other artists over the years, including Boyz II Men, Go West, and Goldie. The album went platinum and launched Caldwell's career.
Album Discography:
After his breakthrough success, Caldwell continued to release albums that showcased his unique blend of genres. Here is a list of his major studio albums:
What You Won't Do for Love (1978)
Cat in the Hat (1980)
Carry On (1982)
August Moon (1983)
Heart of Mine (1989)
Stuck on You (1991)
Soul Survivor (1995)
Blue Condition (1996)
Perfect Island Nights (2005)
House of Cards (2012)
Cool Uncle (2015) - with Jack Splash
Notable Songs and Collaborations:
In addition to his successful albums, Caldwell has also had several notable songs and collaborations throughout his career. Some of his most popular songs include "Open Your Eyes," "My Flame," and "Jamaica." He has also collaborated with other artists, including Michael Lington, Steve Oliver, and Vanessa Williams.
Caldwell's music has been sampled by a variety of hip-hop and R&B artists, including Tupac, Common, and Biggie Smalls. His song "What You Won't Do for Love" has been sampled over 120 times, making it one of the most sampled songs in music history.
Legacy:
Bobby Caldwell's career has spanned over four decades and has left a lasting impact on the music industry. His unique blend of genres and soulful voice have inspired many other artists and helped shape the sound of R&B and soul. He passed away March 14, 2023 in New York, NY
In conclusion, Bobby Caldwell's career is a testament to his talent and dedication to his craft. With a discography spanning 11 studio albums and numerous collaborations, he has cemented himself as a legendary figure in the world of R&B and soul music.
Classic Album: Full Moon - Brandy
Full Moon, the third studio album by Brandy, is a masterful work of R&B that showcases the singer's impeccable vocals, impressive songwriting, and undeniable talent as an artist. Released in 2002, the album is a defining work of early 2000s R&B that remains just as relevant and influential today.
Full Moon, the third studio album by Brandy, is a masterful work of R&B that showcases the singer's impeccable vocals, impressive songwriting, and undeniable talent as an artist. Released in 2002, the album is a defining work of early 2000s R&B that remains just as relevant and influential today.
The album's lead single, "What About Us?" sets the tone for the rest of the album, with its hard-hitting beat, sultry vocals, and socially conscious lyrics. The track's edgy production and Brandy's powerful vocals make it an instant classic, and set the stage for the rest of the album.
Tracks like "Full Moon," "When You Touch Me," and "He Is" showcase Brandy's versatility as an artist, with the singer effortlessly switching between mellow grooves and uptempo bangers. The album's production, courtesy of a who's who of producers including Rodney Jerkins, Mike City, and Timbaland, is equally impressive, with intricate beats, lush instrumentation, and impeccable vocal arrangements.
One of the most impressive aspects of Full Moon is the album's cohesion and narrative flow. The tracks are expertly sequenced, with each song building on the themes and emotions of the previous track. The album's skits and interludes help to tie the tracks together, creating a seamless and immersive listening experience.
Overall, Full Moon is a timeless work of R&B that solidifies Brandy's place as one of the most important artists of the early 2000s. The album's impressive songwriting, impeccable vocals, and innovative production make it a must-listen for fans of R&B and pop music.
Tracklist:
"B-Rocka Intro"
"Full Moon"
"I Thought"
"When You Touch Me"
"Like This"
"All in Me"
"Apart"
"Can We"
"What About Us?"
"Anybody"
"Nothing"
"It's Not Worth It"
"He Is"
"Come a Little Closer"
"Love Wouldn't Count Me Out"
"WOW"
Release date: March 5, 2002
Brick by Brick...
There are a lot of cliches about making things or branching out on your own. If we think about it in story terms, the adventure starts when the protagonist takes the first step towards their goal. Art imitates life in that way. Your choice of profession or desire doesn’t matter because the beginning is the beginning, and you always start wherever you are.
There are a lot of cliches about making things or branching out on your own. If we think about it in story terms, the adventure starts when the protagonist takes the first step towards their goal. Art imitates life in that way. Your choice of profession or desire doesn’t matter because the beginning is the beginning, and you always start wherever you are.
However, the answer to the question that follows is usually the determining factor of success or failure, and that question is, Am I willing to “DO” what it takes? A verbal answer isn’t enough. We have to take action.
You know how it is, Rome wasn’t built in a day. So if I build it, come get some, or whatever Kevin Costner said... 😅
- J.O.
The Collaborators
What's on your radar?
These are the joints that have our attention this month.
Just Like Movies
Just Like Tv
Just Like Music
Did we miss anything? Put us on to something that we need to check out: McnxTv@mrjoliphant.com.
Coming Soon…
The Minority Connection
〰️
The Minority Connection 〰️
Tv Series: High Fidelity
High Fidelity is an American romantic comedy-drama series that premiered on Hulu in 2020. Created by Sarah Kucserka and Veronica West, the show is based on the novel of the same name by Nick Hornby, and the subsequent film adaptation starring John Cusack.
High Fidelity is an American romantic comedy-drama series that premiered on Hulu in 2020. Created by Sarah Kucserka and Veronica West, the show is based on the novel of the same name by Nick Hornby, and the subsequent film adaptation starring John Cusack.
Sarah Kucserka and Veronica West served as the showrunners for High Fidelity, and the series featured a talented roster of writers, including Sarah Kucserka, Veronica West, and Lyle Friedman, among others. The show also featured several prominent guest directors, such as Natasha Lyonne and Tamra Davis, who directed several episodes throughout the series.
The show follows the story of Robyn "Rob" Brooks, a music obsessive who owns a record store and struggles with romantic relationships. The show explores themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, with a focus on the power of music to connect people and help them through difficult times.
One of the standout features of High Fidelity is its exceptional cast, led by Zoë Kravitz, who delivers a captivating performance as Rob. Kravitz brings depth and nuance to the character, making her both relatable and complex.
The show's writing is also exceptional, with a focus on character development and storytelling that is both funny and heartwarming. The show's use of music is also noteworthy, with a mix of classic and contemporary tracks that perfectly complement the show's themes and tone.
Overall, High Fidelity is a must-watch television series for anyone interested in romantic comedies and music. With its talented cast and crew, engaging storylines, and bold exploration of complex issues, High Fidelity stands as a standout example of contemporary television at its best. While the show was unfortunately cancelled after one season, it remains a gem that is worth watching for its witty writing, great performances, and killer soundtrack.