Double Feature Friday Special #3: Meet Durand Bernarr & Emil Foster

Feature Friday Special #3:

Durand Bernarr & Emil Foster

To be completely honest, I couldn't wait to write this Feature Friday special. I personally promote, and strongly support these two individuals, as they are very talented. Without further a due I present to you; Ðuяand♫βərnαrr and •EmiL~F0st3r•. God knows these two individuals have very different stories so, follow me as I dive into the music pool.

To say the least, I guess it's safe to say, it's NO surprise that these two individuals are Cleveland, OH natives, have similar tastes in music and treasure the gift of music as much more than a hobby or a nice thing, but as a gift as precious as dear as life itself. However, lets take a closer look, and lay out the cards of these free cell artists.

Durand Bernarr, also known as alcoholharmony, has his hands in so much. I'd be highly surprised if you didn't know who he is. Most known for his popular YouTube channel, and his fairly recent Alcoholharmony Mixt@pe release, this unmatched artist is bound to make it to the top of the music industry.

I'm excited to announce he's working on several projects, which include another mixtape with a projected release date for Valentines Day '10; entitled "8ight: The Stepson of Erykah Badu". Which will be reviewed, featured, and available for download on this blogsite only. In the mean time enjoy the first single from the mixtape, "Incarcerated Intuition".

Other projects that are in the works include the "OptimiSkeptic" EP, "80's Baby" album and it's mixtape prelude "Sometime In December 1989". "Durand Bernarr is constantly growing [and] often intimidated by other males artists which causes him to push to be better", even with such a beautiful gift he's only just now become comfortable with HIS gift.

Taking that fact into consideration Durand is very weary of those who wish to have 'his voice' or 'his gift' as it comes with a burden only he was equipped to carry. As is every gift, with every artist. An artists music is a projection and a self-immolated reflection of their struggles, life, failures, fears, joy and sorrows. There are so many faces to Durand Bernarr.

If you want to see more of Durand; you should catch him in theater. His most recent theater involvements include "God's Trombones" & "101 Dalmatians" that just closed in mid-December at the Karamu House. Check out his Music myspace, Twitter, and Facebook. Enjoy this video of Durand's latest musical stylings.

Now lets delve into the artist known as Emil Foster, shall we. Emil, is not as popular as his counterpart Durand, but has a talent that is equally as beautiful and unique. Down to earth, a music lover, an emotional singer, a creationist, and musical chef are all adjectives of what you hear when you listen to the music of Emil Foster.

Emil is a recent graduate of Livingstone College, and now holds a B.A. in Vocal Performance and Theater Arts. He grew up singing in various choirs, including The Jubilee Singers, The Greater Cleveland Youth Choral Performing Arts Troupe, and The 93 FM WZAK Youth Choir; and with musical influences that are so eclectically spread, they cannot be listed.

Emil, or as I call him; "The Music Chef", has been cooking some really wonderful mixes that can not be ignored. Can you smell what Emil is cooking? Some of his most recent musical activities include going to Novafeltria, Italy as one of sixty-four vocalist choosen to participate in a 6-week classical training program called; "La Musica Lirica".

Even with Emil's heavy classical music background, his eclectic taste and hunger for music has evolved, as he looks for "real singers". You can catch Emil at open mic sessions displaying his gift and underground concert events being a slave to his love of music. His most popular video on YouTube being his "Blueberry Molasses" video. (Click here to view)

Emil's body of work on YouTube is NOT deep or dense as other YouTubers, but is solid and speaks for itself. Emil strongly suggests that you get into the music of his counterparts Durand Bernarr, Shauny J and Emma Weisberg. To see/ hear more of Emil check out his YouTube and Twitter. Enjoy this video which I'd like to dub as one of the best YouTube posts by Emil.

What Sounds Good Wednesday Special #4: Muhsinah (Experimental/ Indie)

What Sounds Good Wednesday:

Muhsinah

(Experimental/ Indie)

If you're looking for music that's NOTHING like you've ever heard before, I'm sure you'll enjoy one of the undergrounds "best kept secret" artist. She possesses a voice that is only comparable to her music. I'd like to introduce you to Muhsinah (Pronounced [mu•sē•nə]). She's truly in her own category when it comes to vocal arrangement, sound, production and artistry.

Muhsinah represents the D.C. area, a former teacher, and she creates music that is a breath of fresh moon air to ANY music lover who is in search of something you've NEVER heard before. Muhsinah is a busy bee, appearing on several independent releases this past year; and determined to be an all around threatening and self-efficient artist.

Muhsinah has several project releases that are available for download. Let me just tell you that they are worth every single penny. Her releases include "pre.lude", "day.break 2.0", "The Oscillations: Sine", "The Oscillations: Triangle", "The Oscillations: Square", and "My First Beat Tape". There are several projects she's appeared on and done production.

Muhsinah's production skills are featured on projects such as J*DaVeY's "Boudoir Synema: The Great Mistape" (download here) and Wayna's "Higher Ground". In addition to her production apperances you can catch her vocals on "Ruff Draft" (Stacy Epps), "Blunt Park Sessions" (Roddy Rod), and "Universal Mind Control" (Common).

I have honestly loved and utterly adored everything I've heard from Muhsinah. If you want to know more about Muhsinah (The Golden Girl) check out her website, Twitter, music myspace, and YouTube channel. Of course I'm going to leave you with a sample of Muhsinah at work. Until next time enjoy this video of the Golden Girl at work.

What Sounds Good Wednesday Special #3: Wayna (Urban/ Hip-Hop & Alternative Soul)

What Sounds Good Wednesday: Wayna
(Urban/ Hip-Hop & Alternative Soul)

This post is long over due, I've been bumping Deborah Bond and this woman I'm about to introduce you to on De'Luni-Klectik (my iPod) ALL week. The woman I'm talking about is none other than the beautiful spirited Ethiopian-born, Wayna.

NOT that long ago Wayna would be the last person to come to mind regarding grammy nomination and musical success. She was a part of the Clinton White House administration in the 90's. But, anyone bound by a first love of music knows you can't escape it's beckoning.

Before I delve into this amazing woman's contributions to the world of music, I think it's ONLY appropriate I take a moment and acknowledge her influences. All to which she owes her refreshing, invigorating, cutting edge and versatile sound.

Her influences include; Stevie Wonder, Donny Hathaway, Simon & Garfunkel, Minnie Ripperton, Billie Holiday, and many more. If you listen closely those influences definitely come out VERY pronounced, especially the heavy ever-present Billie and Minnie undertones.

Wayna has two independent releases that are available for purchase; "Moments of Clairty: Book One" (2004), and her most recent project "Higher Ground" (2008). I highly recommend both. However, I do prefer "Higher Ground" for it's mature & experimental flow.

"Moments of Clarity: Book One" offers songs such as; "This Ol' Grudge", "Doubting Destiny" (which I happen to absolutely love), "Slurns of Paradise", and "Past Future Eternal". NOT only are the sounds pure and crisp, but the lyrics pull the heart strings.

If you're like me and loved "Moments of Clarity: Book One", you'll do more than appreciate "Higher Ground". This is a solid album; containing the type of music that got lost with the curse of the skip button. Simply press play, and get lost in the harmonies and sounds.

My absolute favorites from "Higher Ground" include; "Billy Club" Feat. Muhsinah (Listen here), and a Minnie remake "Lovin' You" (Listen here). Wayna's soft, but demanding voice has a unique sound that delivers power and naturally eloquent sound to every track it's on.

Wayna performing her remake of Minnie Ripperton's "Loving You" at Bohemian Caverns, DC. 04-23-08

Be sure to check out Wayna's website and Music Myspace for show dates, the latest news and more information. I hope you fell in love. But, for those of you who need just a little more convincing, I hope the following makes a believer out of you. Until NEXT time...


Wayna performing "Billy Club" for African American Heritage Festival in Baltimore, Maryland 06-28-08

The Stuff You're Missing Out On Special #1

The Stuff You're Missing Out On

I usually have this elaborate intro, but you JUST need to watch this video. I'll save the words for another story coverage.

"No Greater Love" by: Amy Winehouse off of the "Frank" album

All you need to know is his name is Reggie White. I strongly suggest you subscribe to his YouTube and follow his Twitter.

Feature Friday Special #2: Meet George Lovett

~ Happy NEW Year! ~

Feature Friday Special #2:
George Lovett

And now it's time to introduce you to some supreme vocals. I discovered this extraordinary man singing Louis Armstrong's "What A Wonderful World" (To view this video click here). My first reaction was a brief swoon followed by a blinking blank stare and a jaw drop of amazement.
You probably guessed right, I'm talking about none other than George Lovett.



The Baltimore City native, George Lovett, currently attends Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) on a full scholarship. Please feel free to insert your "Amen's" and "I know that's right's" for a free ride due to his gifting. Halle-BERRY-lujah! I'm sure your anxious to get to know George better so, lets dive right into the meat and potatoes. Shall we?

George draws his early influences from artists such as Patti LaBelle, Phyllis Hyman, Whitney Houston, and Jennifer Holliday. This is only appropriate seeing George "grew up in a musical family of ALL women". Taking pride in his high pitch voice fashioned after his alto/ soprano role models, great devastation arose when good ol' puberty hit.

However, George finds comfort when he's accepted into The Baltimore School For the Arts (BSFA); which happens to be on the TOP 5 art schools in the nation. At BSFA George is introduced to classical music, learns musical history, has his beginnings in music theory, and learns the limitless possibilities of a versatile voice & a creative mind.

George accredits his musical background, his devotion to leaving a legacy of good music behind and his journey of displaying every aspect of his voice; as reasons why anyone should listen to him. I must admit all of these factors are good enough reason for me. Anyone who knows anything about me knows I promote GOOD music, and solid artistry.



When I asked George who his contemporary influences are, his reply was Brandy, with NO hesitation. George says; " My theory on good singing is this; If you want to be a great singer and recording artist, listen to Brandy. I could talk for days on why I say Brandy out of all the artist out there, but if you’ve heard her “Full Moon” album then you will understand why".

He is currently working on a project with Jimmy Fisher. George dubs Jimmy as "a musical genius" and "great friend". Together Jimmy Fisher and George Lovett form the group "Purely Acoustik" (To view a video click here). Jimmy plays the piano and guitar in addition to writing. He is "the kind of REAL musician and producer the industry needs", George exclaims.

Even as talented as George is, he has respect for other artists and their crafts. Here are some constituents of choice he believes you need to get into; Brittany Nicole (Check out her FaceBook Page), Wayne Wilson (Check out his YouTube channel), Jeremy Lloyd (Check out his FaceBook Page), and TT the Artist (Check out her Myspace Page).

Be sure to check out George's YouTube Page, Twitter, FaceBook Page and Music Myspace to hear more of this talented brother. George passionately explained to me "[He] will NOT be put in a box or stereotyped. ... [W]ith generation we’re living in ... [He] is needed in the world". With that said I suggest you get into him now. Of course I'll leave an ear tickler. Enjoy. :D

What Sounds Good Wednesday Special #2: Yahzarah (Purple St. James) (Soul)

What Sounds Good Wednesday:

Yahzarah (Soul)

I rarely miss a beat or a 16th note when it comes to underground music or the goodies that the kiddies always seem to pass up, but I somehow missed this "BlackStar" when she first hit the scene.


None other than Yahzarah, also known as Purple St. James. Who is she? Where did she start? Let's jump back in time to one of my favorite albums; "Mama's Gun" by Erykah Badu.


(Catch Yahz in the yellow)

Yahzarah pops on the scene doing backgrounds. Hailing from the Washington DC area born Dana Williams. Yahzarah loosely translates to "Queen Mother [who] is the brightest star". She gives herself this stage name as a tribute to her deceased grandmother. (Allow me to take a minute to thank the Google Search Engines for that tidbit of information.)


When she comes to the forefront, she storms the scene. She releases her first independent project; "Hear Me", which include songs like "Roof Top", "Fire Fly", and "Nova" in 2001. Yahzarah hits us again in 2003 with another independent release entitled; "BlackStar". But, Yahz's "The Prelude" is the project that introduced me to her and caught my attention.

The project opens with "Four Alarm Fire". (Listen here) This song sets the album off the right way; with proper exposure to Yahzarah's impressive range. Specifying favorites on this album would be futile, I love everything on it. But, the song that holds a special place in my heart is none other than; "Where I Is". (Listen here)

I strongly suggest (aka subliminally forcing) you get into this amazing woman now (aka yesterday). Stay tuned to get a glimpse of what Yahzarah has been working on. Be sure to get the information from the horses mouth by following Yahzarah on Twitter and Facebook. Until the NEXT time, enjoy Yahzarah's tribute to MJ.


Yahzarah singing "Billie Jean" at the Soul Sista Serenade 06-28-09 (Birchmere, VA)

MIA Monday Special #1: Bilal (Soul/ Jazz)

MIA Monday:

Bilal (Neo-Soul/ Jazz)

I MUST say the music industry wasn't ready for this man. His talent does more than speak for itself, it speaks for EVERY artist making REAL music. Yeah! I'm talking about the unearthly artist, Bilal.


Bilal Sayeed Oliver (what a mouth full), NOT to be confused with Bilal Salaam, was born August 21, 1979. He's both classically trained and ahead of his time musically. Also, I've recently learned Bilal is a part of a "loose collective" called the Soulquarians.

After hearing Bilal's first CD release; "First Born Second", my life was forever changed. The lyrics of "Fast Lane" triggered something deep down inside of me that NEVER turned off, and the music video JUST solidified those emotions.


His second album, which was unreleased, "Love For Sale" is FULL of songs that scream, yell, and boldly proclaim artistry at it's finest. But, we haven't heard from Bilal in a while. He's been MIA in the music industry for some time, and he's being sorely missed by many.

For ALL of the people, like me, who've been on the look out for Bilal's musical prodigal son return; I've got some fire for your ears. He's FINALLY BACK! It's rumored he's working on a project to be released in 2010; "Airtight's Revenge".


In one of his most recent performances for the CMJ Marathon, he unveiled one of the singles from his forthcoming project; "Levels". I'm MOST literally going to count the days until Bilal drops his NEW project. But, until then enjoy his NEW single...



You heard it here FIRST! Shauny signing off!