FINESSED&BLESSED

J-FINESSE PRESENTS...THE SOULFUL RESUSCITATION (THE ALBUM) V.1 IS NOW ON SALE AT WWW.BANDCAMP.COM !!!!

2011-05-19T10:01:00.001-07:00

THAT IS RIGHT EVERYONE...YOU HAVE PATIENTLY WAITED AND NOW IT IS TIME FOR YOU ALL TO ENJOY SOME GOOD MUSIC. SOULFUL RESUSCITATION IS A NEW SERIES THAT I STARTED. THE IMPETUS BEHIND THIS PROJECT WAS TO BREATHE NEW LIFE INTO OLD R&B AND HIP-HOP HITS FROM THE PAST. THE TRACK LISTING RANGES FROM JAY-Z, QUADRON, JILL SCOTT TO LUTHER VANDROSS!!! THERE WILL BE 9 MORE EDITIONS COMING TO YOU SOON, BUT FOR NOW, PLEASE SIT BACK AND ENJOY THE FIRST INSTALLMENT....IT IS DEFINITELY SOULFUL!!!!

PEACE

J-Finesse Presents...The Soulful Resuscitation (The Album V.1) by J-Finesse

ARTISTS INFLUENCE CENTRAL (REDUX): In the 70's, there was SIDE EFFECT!!!!

2011-02-08T17:44:00.000-08:00

If the O'Jays, the Dramatics, or Bloodstone had added a female singer and incorporated bebop-influenced harmonies, they might have sounded something like Side Effect -- a distinctive soul and funk vocal quartet of the '70s and early '80s. Side Effect was never a big name in R&B -- and its material wasn't as consistently strong as that of the O'Jays -- but it did have a recognizable and appealing sound. The group was formed in Los Angeles in May 1972, when it started out as an all-male trio and consisted of Louis Patton, Gregory Matta, and leader Augie Johnson. The latter had been singing since childhood -- in fact, Johnson was among the kids who sang on Frank Sinatra's 1959 hit "High Hopes." Side Effect became a quartet when, in 1974, Johnson, Patton, and Matta decided to add a female vocalist and hired L.A. native Sylvia Nabors. In 1975, Side Effectsigned with Fantasy and recorded its self-titled debut album, which was, like subsequent efforts, produced by Wayne Henderson ofCrusaders fame. By the time Side Effect recorded its second album,What You Need, in 1976, Nabors had been replaced by Helen Lowe. Then, in 1977, Lowe was replaced by Sylvia St. James, who recorded with the group in 1977 and 1978. St. James' subsequent replacement was Miki Howard, a talented singer who sang with the group for a few years before signing with Atlantic in 1986 and becoming well known as a solo artist.

Attached is one of my favorite songs off the 1977 album entitled "Goin' Bananas". Also, as an added bonus is a remix that I did for Little Brother that may sound a little familiar.

Enjoy!!!

Private World - Side Effect 1977

Whatever You Say (Finesse Remix) 2001

Hypnotik Soul Volume 6 In Stores and online NOW!!!!

2010-11-16T13:31:00.000-08:00

Hello all,

I hope and pray that all is well with you. As such, I would just like to let you all know that I have FINALLY released HYPNOTIK SOUL V.6. Critics have said that this is my best work to date. If you are in the Atlanta area, you may purchase it at Mood's Music in Little Five Points or go online at www.moodsmuic.net. BTW, this is a limited edition and only 200 have been pressed and are ready for sale. So hurry up and cop yours or be forever sorry....LOL!

J-Finesse

www.moodmusic.net

www.j-finesse.podomatic.com

ODE TO THE UMMAH AND CITYSCAPES V.1 ARE FINALLY AVAILABLE!!!!

2010-08-03T20:55:00.001-07:00

AFTER YEARS OF PUTTING IT OFF, I FINALLY RELEASED MY FIRST TWO STUDIO PROJECTS, ODE TO THE UMMAH AND CITYSCAPES V.1. BOTH ARE NOW ON SALE AT WWW.JFINESSE.BANDCAMP.COM. PLEASE SUPPORT AND SPREAD THE WORD!!!

JUNE MONTAGE 2010

2010-06-05T01:59:00.001-07:00

HELLO EVERYONE,

I KNOW THAT IT HAS BEEN A LONG TIME SINCE I POSTED A NEW MIX AND I APOLOGIZE FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART. HOWEVER, I HAVE DECIDED TO START A NEW COLLECTIVE CALLED "MONTAGE". ESSENTIALLY, I WILL POST A NEW MIX THAT REPRESENTS A MONTAGE OF DIFFERENT GENRES OF MUSIC THAT I WAS FEELING AT THE TIME. ATTACHED IS THE JUNE MONTAGE. ENJOY!!!

FINESSE

JUNE MONTAGE 2010

1) TELL ME IF YOU STILL CARE - S.O.S. BAND

2) I'M GOOD - CLIPSE

3) SO AMBITIOUS - JAY-Z FT. PHARRELL

4) LORD, HELP ME - KEV BROWN FT. ZO

5) YEAH - HAVANA

5) LATE NIGHT - ODISSEE FT. DIAMOND DISTRICT

6) GAVE ME LOVE - J-FINESSE

7) AFTER PARTY (S1 REMIX) - LITTLE BROTHER FT. CARLITA DURANT

8) SUMMER MADNESS - DJ SPINNA

9) 1000 PAPER PLANES - MAYER HAWTHORNE

10) 10 CRACK COMMANDMENTS (REMIX) - NOTORIOUS B.I.G. FT. FRANK SINATRA

11) TAKE YOUR TIME - PETE ROCK FT. LOOSE ENDS

12) SO SPECIAL - SNOOP DOGG FT. BRANDY & PHARRELL

13) PHILLY NIGHT RHYTHMS - J-FINESSE

14) TALE OF TWO (APPLEJAC REMIX) - ERIC ROBERSON

15) COSMIC - BUG

16) HERB HONEY - KAN KICK

17) SOMEONE - SHANICE

18) THINGS WE DO FOR LOVE - HORACE BROWN

19) SURELY (INSTRUMENTAL) - DJ SPINNA

20) STAY HERE - MUSHINAH FT. EXILE

21) NATURE - J-FINESSE

22) THE WAY THAT YOU LOVE ME - MICHAEL JACKSON (RARE)

23) UK BLAKK - CARON WHEELER

24) SOMETIMES - BRAND NEW HEAVIES

25) I BELIEVE - AYAH (RARE)

SUNDAY'S FORECAST 6/14/09

2009-06-11T14:12:00.000-07:00

HELLO ALL,

I HOPE ALL IS WELL WITH EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU. HERE IS THIS WEEK'S AND NEXT WEEK'S FORECAST! IT APPEARS THAT THERE WILL BE SHOWERS THROUGHOUT THE REST OF THE WEEK WITH SUNSHINE PEEPING IN AROUND SUNDAY!!! STAY DRY IF YOU ARE IN ATLANTA.

J-FINESSE

SUNDAY'S FORECAST 5/25/09

2009-05-26T07:22:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, this past weekend was pretty muggy and wet. Although I was able to dj four days straight, the weather made it a little hard to bare the long hours. Anyway, here is this week's forecast.

Enjoy!!!!

SUNDAY'S FORECAST 5/17/09

2009-05-19T12:52:00.000-07:00

HELLO ALL,

HERE IS THIS WEEK'S SUNDAY FORECAST. THIS PARTICULAR MIX IS THE THIRD INSTALLMENT OF THIS COLLECTION. AS AN ADDED FEATURE, YOU WILL NOW BE ABLE TO GET THE TRACK LISTINGS INCLUDED ON THE ACTUAL MP3. WHEN YOU PULL IT UP ON YOU IPOD, THE TRACK LISTING SHOULD POP UP ON YOUR SCREEN. ALSO, WHENEVER YOU GO ON THE INFO TAB ON THE FILE, JUST GO TO THE LYRICS TAB AND THERE YOU HAVE IT...THE TRACK LISTINGS. ENJOY!!!

J-FINESSE

JIM RUSSELL RECORD STORE (NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA)

2009-05-11T18:25:00.000-07:00

DEEP IN THE HEART OF NEW ORLEANS LIES A STAPLE IN THE MUSICAL TAPESTRY OF THE CITY: JIM RUSSELL RECORD STORE. IN BUSINESS FOR OVER 40 YEARS, JIM RUSSEL HAS SEEN THE LIKES OF ERYKAH BADU, DR. JOHN, EDDIE BO, LIL' WAYNE, DJ JUBILEE & MASTER P COME THROUGH AND PATRONIZE THE STORE. THE RELAXED ATMOSPHERE IS GREAT FOR MUSIC LOVERS THAT JUST WANT TO TAKE THEIR TIME AND PERUSE THE ENDLESS AMOUNT OF VINYL ON THE SHELVES.

UNFORTUNATELY, THE ECONOMY HAS TAKEN IT'S TOLL ON THE ONCE THRIVING STORE AND BILLS FROM HURRICANE DAMAGE HAVE FORCED THE STORE TO "TIGHTEN IT'S BELT". UPON MY VISIT TODAY TO THE FAMOUS MUSIQUARIUM, I TOOK THE TIME TO BUY SOME RECORDS AND CHAT WITH THE OPERATOR OF THE ESTABLISHMENT AND HER DAUGHTER. SHE EXPLAINED THAT BILLS AND LACK OF CUSTOMERS HAVE REALLY PUSHED THE STORE IN THE RED. SHE SAID THAT I WAS PROBABLY HER 3RD CUSTOMER OF THE DAY AND THAT IT WAS CUSTOMERS LIKE MYSELF THAT COME BY, BUT DON'T COME TOO OFTEN.

I APOLOGIZED BECAUSE I KNOW THAT MOST PEOPLE ARE DOWNLOADING AND BUYING THEIR MUSIC FROM OTHER OUTLETS...i,e..BEST BUY, WAL-MART OR EVEN ITUNES. NOBODY IS SUPPORTING THE MOM & POP STORES ANYMORE AND BECAUSE THE NUMBER OF TRUE MUSIC LOVERS IS DWINDLING, THESE STORES HAVE A HARD TIME TRYING TO COMPETE WITH THE MAJOR STORE CHAINS.

SO, I IMPLORE AND STRONGLY SUGGEST NUMBER ONE TO PLEASE SUPPORT MOM & POP STORES SO THAT THEY MAY CONTINUE TO THRIVE. ALSO, IF YOU ARE EVER IN THE NEW ORLEANS UPTOWN AREA ON MAGAZINE STREET, YOU NEED TO STOP BY JIM RUSSELL RECORD STORE AND GET YOU SOME GOOD CONVERSATION AND GET YOUR HANDS DIRTY!!!

ALL OF THE CONTACT INFO IS BELOW.

JIM RUSSELL RECORD STORE

1837 MAGAZINE STREET

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA 70130

504-522-2602

jimrussellrecords@cox.net

http://www.jimrussellrecords.com/

SUNDAY'S FORECAST 5/3/09

2009-05-04T07:21:00.000-07:00

Well, everyone....if you live in Atlanta then you know what this weekend was like. The forecast predicticted scattered showers and thunderstorms and on Friday afternoon, it seemed to be holding up. Then came Friday night's monsunal pour. At any rate, it was a great weekend for me as far as gigging. I had three gigs and they all went well in addition to other things. Attached is this week's forecast. Hopefully, this will get you through the week. Enjoy!!!

J-Finesse

Sunday's Forecast 5/3/09

1) Jazztronik - Room #204

2) Ain't No Ifs or Maybes - PPP

3) Icing on The Cake - Anthony Hamilton

4) Honey - Erykah Badu

5) I Know (Finesse RMX) - Jay-Z

6) Yeah - Havanna

7) Fall In Love - Flying Lotus

8) Loving Music - J-Dilla

9) Sounds Like Love

10) Work It Out (Dela Mix) - Q-Tip

11) Benson - J-Finesse

12) Don't You Have A Man - Drake ft. Little Brother & Dwele'

SUNDAY'S FORECAST V.3

2009-04-29T09:17:00.000-07:00

HELLO EVERYONE,

HERE IS ANOTHER MORNING MIX. THIS PARTICULAR MIX CONTAINS SOME CUTS THAT HAVE A SOULFUL-HIP-HOP TWIST TO IT WITH A FEW RARE GROOVES. CHECK IT OUT!!!

SUNDAY'S FORECAST V.3
1) THE CROSS - 9TH WONDER
2) INNOCENCE - MAVERICK
3) REMIND ME - PATRICE RUSHEN (CLASSIC)
4) STAR WARS - SOUNDESIGNS
5) DREAM ABOUT YOU - MABANUA
6) TAKE OFF THE BLUES - THE FOREIGN EXCHANGE
7) YAGA YAGA - TERROR FABULOUS (CLASSIC REGGAE JOINT)
8) WHAT U DO 2 ME - DA TRUTH FT. KENNY GREENE (R.I.P.) FROM INTRO
9) PLAYERS - SLUM VILLAGE
10) REACH DOWN IN YOUR SOUL - SY SMITH

REMEMBER DIS?!

2009-04-07T13:13:00.001-07:00

Can you remember when you first heard a reggae song? Better yet, do you remember being in a party and the DJ deviated and played dancehall or reggae and the reaction that the "out of towners" had. Well, I do. Interestingly enough, as the years grew on, I grew very fond of this type of music...especially watching how the girls would "WIND & GRIND" to the riddum of the drum.

Attached is a mix that was done back in '98, but the music dates back to the late 80's and early 90's. Enjoy!!!

"STAY" with Brian Conley!!!

2009-03-31T19:24:00.001-07:00

With all of the talk about Steve Harvey's new book, people have definitely overlooked the up-and-coming authors that traverse these same United States. One that comes to mind is my childhood friend by the name of Brian C. Conley. Brian, a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana has been writing since he was a kid and over the years has perfected his craft. His latest masterpiece is entitled "Stay".

Review:

“I thought you said this was a love story.”
“No, I said it was a story about love. There’s a difference.”
For most of his life, Anthony Bryant has been able to elude any kind of emotional attachments with the deftness of a running back avoiding tackle. But when he meets Natalie, the alluring friend of the woman he is currently seeing, it’s a struggle to resist the magnetic pull she has on him. She’s sexy, funny, and shares his love ’em and leave ’em philosophy. She also brings about feelings in him he hasn’t known since he was a child when jealousy, betrayal, insanity, and murder tore his family apart. Will Anthony be able to overcome his long-buried demons and experience love for the first time in his life or will it destroy him the way he has seen it happen to loved ones before?

Told in Anthony’s words to the new woman in his life, follow the story of a young man trying to do what few men attempt: To explain to his woman why he is the way he is.

Brian's novel is available at amazon, target and other major bookstores. Please support Brian in his endeavor to provide great reading material. Brian is currently working on several other novels including one that will be a tag-team effort with me, J-Finesse!!!

http://www.target.com/gp/detail.html/187-3449240-1020227?asin=0595442447&afid=yahoosspplp_bmvd&lnm=0595442447%7CStay_:_Books&ref=tgt_adv_XSNG1060

The Connect - 808's & Bette Midler

2009-03-24T14:25:00.000-07:00

You love him...sometimes. You hate...sometimes. But no matter what, you're usually talking about him, and that makes him a very happy man. I'm talking about THE Musical Genius, Kanye West. Since we all know that 'Ye loves to use samples, I thought he'd be the perfect choice for this week's column. Today we take a look at "College Dropout."

All Falls Down

Sample:

Lauryn Hill - "Mystery Of Iniquity"

Spaceship

Sample:
Marvin Gaye - "Distant Lover"

Never Let You Down

Sample:
Blackjack - "Maybe It's The Power Of Love"

Slow Jamz

Sample:
Luther Vandross - "A House Is Not A Home"

School Spirit (Instrumental)

Sample:
Aretha Franklin - "Spirit In The Dark"

Last Call

Sample:
Bette Midler - "Mr. Rockefeller"

The Connect - Primo Hov

2009-03-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

We've all been put into a trance by the hypnotic masterpieces created by DJ Premiere. The first thing out of your mouth is usually, "Damn that was dope." The second thing is usually, "Where did he get that sample?" Well gosh darn it, that's where I come in. But this week, we're gonna make it a little more special. This week we're looking at beats that Primo concocted for Jay-Z. Ahh yeah, I can see your head nodding already. On to the records.

D'Evils

Samples:

Allen Toussaint - "Go Back Home"

Friend Or Foe

Samples:

Wood, Brass & Steel - "Hey What's That You Say"

So Ghetto

Samples:

Ennio Morricone - "Sporca Ma Distinto"
Steve Cropper - "Crop Dustin"

A Million and One Questions (Remix)

Dorothy Ashby - "Cause I Need It"
Latimore - "Let Me Go"
The Main Ingredient - "Car Of Love"

The Connect - The Debut

2009-03-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

One of the more creative aspects of music is reinvention. A skilled artisan can take something old, an eight bar loop, and turn it into something new to be loved by a different audience. The last part of that statement is an interesting one. How many times have we heard a song and went "What a great sample. Who is that?" Only, the answer is usually a shoulder shrug and an "I don't know." That's a shame. Here at THE MUSIQUARIUM, we're trying to bridge that gap. So every week, I'm going to highlight a few old school artists whose music yo've probably heard time and time again, but just couldn't put a name to the beat. Hope you enjoy.

The Nite Liters - Damn

Sampled By:
Dr. Dre’s “Lyrical Gangbang”

Debarge - Stay With Me

Sampled By:

Ashanti’s “Foolish”
Big L’s “MVP”
Funkmaster Flex’s “Safe Sex, No Freaks”
Musiq Soulchild’s “Ifiwouldaknew”
Notorious BIG’s “One More Chance”

Ohio Players - Exstasy

Sampled By:

A Tribe Called Quest’s “Scenario”
Jay-Z ft Notorious BIG’s “Brooklyn's Finest”

Minnie Riperton - Baby, This Love I Have

Sampled By:

A Tribe Called Quest’s “Check the Rhyme”
Black Star’s “KOS Determination”
Pete Rock’s “Play Dis Only at Night”
Soul IV Real’s “Candy Rain”
Xzibit’s “Rimz and Tirez”

The JB's - Pass The Peas

Eric B and Rakim’s “I Ain't No Joke”
Eric B and Rakim’s “Move the Crowd”
Souls of Mischief’s “What a Way to Go Out”
Stop the Violence Movement’s “Self-Destruction”

UP IN DA CLUB '09

2009-02-16T22:28:00.000-08:00

For those who don't know, I have djayed many a places for different types of musical tastes and vibes. Even so, one thing remains constant: folks love music that makes them feel good. Whether it be crunk, bounce, house, R&B, Old School...you name it, people love to groove. As such, I have attached a recent mix that was done for a friend of mine in Chicago and two other mixes that give one a sample of how I get down in my sets. So in a sense, her request is everybody else's blessing.

Club Mix '09
1) Dey Know - Shawty Lo
2) Lolli Pop - Lil Wayne ft. Kanye West
3) Freaky Girl - Gucci Mane
4) My Dougie - Skee
5) Whatever You Like - TI
6) A Milli - Lil Wayne
7) Get Silly - VIC
8) Green Light - John Legend ft. Andre' 3000
9) U Turnin' Me On - Keri Hilson
10) Shawty - Plies ft. T-Pain
11) Bust It Baby - Plies ft. Ne-Yo
12) Live Your Life - TI ft. Rhianna
13) Walk It Out - DJ Unk
14) Buy U A Drink - T-Pain
15) Snap Ya Fingaz - Lil Jon ft. E-40
16) I Know - Jay-Z ft. Pharrell
17) Wipe Me Down - Foxx ft. Lil Boosie & Webbie
18) Mrs. Officer - Lil Wayne ft. Bobby Valentino
19) Paper Planes - MIA
20) Get Like Me - David Banner ft. Chris Brown
21) Independent - Webbie
22) Drink & My 2 Step - Cassidy ft. Swizz Beatz
23) Down for My Niggaz - C-Murder
24) U Want - Slim ft. Gucci Mane
25) Drop It Like It's Hot - Snoop Dogg ft. Pharrell
26) So Fly - Slim
27) Should've Let You Go - Keyshia Cole
28) Diamond Girl - Ryan Leslie
29) Let It Go - Keyshia Cole ft. Missy Elliot & Lil Kim
30) Curtain Call - Nina Skyy
31) You - Lloyd ft. Lil Wayne
32) Girls Around The World - Lloyd ft. Lil Wayne
33) Singles Ladies - Beyonce'
34) Get Me Bodied - Beyonce'
35) Money In The Bank - Swizz Beatz
36) Ching-A-Ling - Missy Elliot
37) Blow The Whistle - Too Short
38) Headsprung - LL Cool J

Sunday's Forecast V.1
1) Shazz - Hermosa Maria
2) Sunkids ft. Chance - Rescue Me
3) Erro - Change For Me (Akabu Mix)
4) The Rurals - Rurals (95 North TLC Mix)
5) Shaun Escoffery - Space Rider
6) Hardrive ft. Lynae - Never Forget (When You Touch Me)
7) Tortured Soul - Fall In Love
8) Dubtribe Sound System - Equitoraial

Sunday's Forecast V.2
1) Migratenation - Society Of Soul
2) They Say (Inst) - Common
3) I Adore You - Caron Wheeler
4) Was It Something That I Said - Sylvester
5) It's My House - Diana Ross
6) Rock The World - Weeks and Co.
7) Anybody Wanna Party? - Gloria Gaynor
8) Space Funk - Manzel
9) Spread Love - Lenny Fontana Presents Black Sun
10) Roller Skating Jam Named Saturday - De La Soul
11) Caught Up In A One Night Love Affair - Inner Life

DILLA PART II

2009-02-08T21:15:00.000-08:00

HELLO EVERYONE. I AM BACK WITH A TREAT FOR YOU ALL. ATTACHED YOU WILL FIND PART II OF MY ODE TO DILLA TRIBUTE. AS WE APPROACH THE ANNIVERSARY OF HIS UNTIMELY DEATH, WE SHOULD CELEBRATE THE LEGACY OF THIS GREAT MAN. ENJOY!!!

FINESSE

NON ILLA THAN J DILLA (R.I.P.)

2009-01-18T23:43:00.000-08:00

IT HAS BEEN ALMOST THREE YEARS SINCE JAMES YANCEY AKA J DILLA LEFT US AND THE MUSIC INDUSTRY HAS NOT BEEN THE SAME SINCE. LUCKILY WE WERE BLESSED TO HAVE HIS MUSICAL GENIUS PROVIDE US WITH 12 PLUS YEARS OF BEAUTIFUL MUSIC. ALTHOUGH HE LEFT THIS EARTH PREMATURELY, HIS MUSIC WILL STILL CONTINUE ON BECAUSE FOLKS LIKE WAAJEED, BLACK MILK, MANUBUA, Q-TIP, KANYE, FLOYD THE LOCSMIF AND MYSELF WILL MAKE SURE THAT HIS INFLUENCE WILL BE FELT THROUGH THE MUSIC THAT WE ALL CREATE. FURTHERMORE, THE MAN'S CATALOG WAS THICK WITH BEAT TREATS. SO, I AM SURE THAT WE WILL STILL BE HEARING FROM THE LATE-GREAT.

ATTACHED IS THE FIRST VOLUME THAT I DID THE DAY J DILLA PASSED. THERE WILL BE SUBSEQUENT VOLUMES COMING SOON!!!!

ENJOY!

FINESSE

ARTIST INFLUENCE CENTRAL V.4

2009-01-18T23:26:00.000-08:00

What can one say about "The King Of Pop"? Well, whatever one chooses whether it be good or bad, everyone can agree that the brother is talented. Me personally, I enjoyed all of his music. I have followed him through the highs and the lo's, through his kid years to his young adult years and unto his status now. Many years later his music still shines through, which is evident by the enormous catalog this man possesses. Once again, I stumbled across a rare gem while shopping at the local "Wax-N-Fax" in little 5 points. This particular album was one of the solo projects that Motown released before cutting Michael and his brothers loose from the then fledgling record company. Amid all of the legal turmoil that the group was enduring at the time, Michael was able to release a gem of an album with "Forever, Michael". One can automatically sense that Michael was going through puberty as his voice changes between songs throughout the entire album. This album was a nice mix of mid-tempo grooves and sentimental slow jams. However, one particular cut that stood out to me was the track, "Dear Michael". Dear Michael is about a hopeful fan who is so in love with Michael that even though he receives many letters and no matter how many times she writes him she believes that one day he would read the letter.

All in all, it was such a groovy track that I immediately had to put my touches on it.....all out of due respect that is . Attached is both the original and my version of the song that will be released on my upcoming beat cd entitled "The Nod Factor". I hope you enjoy!!!

Finesse
Dear Michael - Michael Jackson

We Miss You Michael - J-Finesse

SADE'S MANSION!!!

2009-01-11T10:40:00.000-08:00

When Sade first came on the recording scene in the '80s, her record company, Epic, made a point of printing "pronounced shar-day" after her name on the record labels of her releases. Soon enough the world would have no problem in correctly pronouncing her name. Born Helen Folasade Adu in Ibadan, Nigeria, about 50 miles from Lagos, she was the daughter of an African father and an English mother. After her mother returned to England, Sade grew up on the North End of London. Developing a good singing voice in her teens, Sade worked part-time jobs in and outside of the music business. She listened to Ray Charles, Nina Simone, Al Green, Aretha Franklin, and Billie Holliday. Sade studied fashion design at St. Martin's School of Art in London while also doing some modeling on the side. Around 1980, she started singing harmony with a Latin funk group called Arriva. One of the more popular numbers that the group would perform was a Sade original co-written with bandmember Ray St. John, "Smooth Operator," that would later become Sade's first stateside hit. The following year she joined the eight-piece funk band Pride as a background singer. The band included future Sade band members guitarist/saxophonist Stuart Matthewman (a key player in '90s urban soul singer Maxwell's success) and bassist Paul Denman. The concept of the group was that there could shoot-offs. In essence, a few members within the main group Pride formed mini-groups that would be the opening act. Pride did a lot of shows around London, stirring up record company interest. Initially, the labels wanted to only sign Sade, while the group members wanted a deal for the whole band. After a year, the other band members told Sade, Matthewman, and Denman to go ahead and sign a deal. Adding keyboardist Andrew Hale, the group signed to the U.K. division of Epic Records. Her debut album, Diamond Life (with overall production by Robin Millar), went Top Ten in the U.K. in late 1984. January 1985 saw the album released on CBS' Portrait label and by spring it went platinum off the strength of the Top Ten singles "Smooth Operator" and "Hang on to Your Love." Her second album, Promise (November 1985), featured "Never As Good As the First Time" and arguably her signature song, "The Sweetest Taboo," which stayed on the U.S. pop charts for six months. Sade was so popular that some radio stations reinstated the '70s practice of playing album tracks, adding "Is It a Crime" and "Tar Baby" to their play lists. In 1986, Sade won a Grammy for Best New Artist.Sade's third album was 1988's Stronger Than Pride and featured her first number one soul single "Paradise," "Nothing Can Come Between Us," and "Keep Looking." A new Sade album didn't appear for four years. 1992's Love Deluxe continued the unbroken streak of multi-platinum Sade albums, spinning off the hits "No Ordinary Love," "Feel No Pain," and "Pearls." While the album's producer Mike Pela, Matthewman, Denman, and Hale have gone on to other projects. The new millennium did spark a new scene for Sade. She issued Lovers Rock in fall 2000 and incoporated more mainstream elements than ever before. Debut single "By Your Side" was also a hit among radio and adult-contemporary listerners. The following summer, Sade embarked on her first tour in more than a decade, selling out countless dates across America. In early 2002, she celebrated the success of the tour by releasing her first ever live album and DVD, Lovers Live.

Nine years since her hiatus, Sade's music still lives through. What you are about to experience is my interpretation of her music in the form of "House Music". Attached is a mix that I did when her Lover's Rock album was out. Please enjoy!!!

J-Finesse

Welcome To My House!!!

2008-12-16T22:14:00.000-08:00

WOW, IT HAS BEEN ALMOST 12 YEARS SINCE I LIVED IN CHICAGO. EVEN SO, I CAN STILL REMEMBER THE BLAST THAT I HAD IN THE "WINDY CITY" THANKS TO MY FRIENDS AND PLAY-COUSINS STEVEN & MARLON WHO BOTH TURNED ME ON TO OLD SCHOOL HOUSE CLASSICS. I REMEMBER LOVING THE PERCUSSION HEAVY TRACKS THAT WOULD CONJURE GREAT FEELINGS WHILE IN A HOUSE PARTY. YOU COULD DEFINITELY BET THAT YOU WERE COMING OUT OF THE PARTY SWEATY AND PURGED FREE OF ALL ILL FEELINGS. AT ANY RATE, PEOPLE DON'T DANCE ANYMORE AND FORSAKE THE ENERGY AND VIBES THAT THIS TYPE OF MUSIC CAN GIVE ONE. OVER THE PAST COUPLE OF YEARS I HAVE GOTTEN REQUESTS FOR OLD SCHOOL CHICAGO HOUSE MIXES. WELL THANKS TO A FRIEND OF MINE (TANJURIA) FROM CHICAGO'S SOUTH SIDE, I HAVE SOMETHING FOR YOU ALL. ATTACHED IS A TWO-PART MIX THAT WAS GIVEN TO ME A LONG TIME AGO. ENJOY!!!

DIGGIN IN THE CRATES

U AIN'T REALLY DOWN

117(CLAP, CLAP,CLAP)

VIRGO TRAKS

LET NO MAN PUT US UNDER

IT'S HOUSE

DONNII

VIDEO CLASH

DANCE

U CAN'T STOP THE HOUSE

JACK YOUR BODY

DANCE YOU MUTHA

FUNKIN WITH THE DRUMS

BRING DOWN THE DRUMS

WASHING MACHINE

I FEAR THE NIGHT

NO WAY BACK

TIME TO JACK

WE'RE ROCKIN DOWN THE HOUSE

U USED TO HOLD ME

FRENCH KISS

DEVOTION

WHY'D YOU FALL

MOVE YOUR BODY

BEYOND THE CLOUDS

LAND OF CONFUSION

WORK THAT MUTHA

COMPUTER MADNESS

KAOS

FOLLOW ME

PERCULATOR

NU NU

BRIGHTER DAYS

Liquid Soul V.23

2008-11-07T13:08:00.000-08:00

Here is one of my volumes that I did when I was living in Little Rock. As you will soon see, '06 was an interesting year in terms of music for me. Great selections to choose from that year.

Liquid Soul v.23

Never Known - Otis & Shugg

Brazillian Groove - Jay Dee

My High - Yero

Fever - Platinum Pied Pipers ft. Zero

My Best Friend - V

Tonight Is Yours - Lil' Zane ft. Tank

Hand & Hand - DJ Quik ft. El DeBarge

Right Here (RMX) - SWV

Don't Stop - Beanie Siegal ft. Snoop Dogg

Disco Inferno (Finessed RMX) - 50 Cent b/w Musiq Soulchild

Forthenight - Musiq Soulchild

Does Your Man Know About Me - Rahiem (Rare Classic '91)

My Apology - Floetry

It's For You - Shanice (Rare Classic '92)

Love Like This - Faith Evans

Bonnie & Clyde '92 - YoYo ft. Ice Cube

Down By Law - Fab 5 Freddy (Hip-Hop Classic)

Sleepless Nights - Azure ft. Don E.

Tell Me How It Feels - 52nd Street

Cold Blooded '00 - Ol' Dirty Bastard

We Like Dem Girls - CR

You Got Me - B5

Rigor Mortis - Cameo

Show You The Way To Go - The Jacksons

You Make Me Cum - Kelis (Rare)

No Other Girl In The Room - Nas ft. Maxwell

RETURN OF THE NEEDLE DROP!!!

2008-11-07T12:33:00.000-08:00

I GUESS BY NOW, MANY OF YOU HAVE BEEN ENJOYING THIS HISTORICAL WEEK. OBAMA WON THE PRESIDENTIAL RACE AGAINST MCCAIN AND NOW Q-TIP'S LONG-AWAITED ALBUM IS IN STORES NOW. Q-TIP HAS BEEN AWAY FOR AWHILE, BUT HAS BEEN TOURING WITH COMMON AND OTHER ARTISTS ON THE BOUNCE TOUR. HE HAS ALSO DEVELOPED A NEW FOLLOWING IN ADDITION TO HIS CURRENT FANS. HIS SINGLE "GETTIN UP" HAS BEEN ON THE VIDEO SCENE AND RADIO STATIONS ALL ACROSS THE NATION. SPEAKING OF "GETTIN UP", I FOUND MYSELF GETTIN UP TO RESEARCH THE SAMPLE LIST WITHIN THE ALBUM'S LINER NOTES AND FOUND THAT THE UNDERLYING SAMPLE WAS BY THE GROUP CALLED BLACK IVORY.

THE NAME OF THE SONG IS CALLED "YOU & I", WHICH WAS FOUND ON THE 1972 ALBUM "DON'T TURN AROUND". This New York City group attained a strong following in the '70s and were one of the best falsetto-led groups proficient in ballads. This 1993 set compiles tracks from their first two albums, both released in 1972. Unlike the Phil Perry-led Montclairs, who often seemed on the verge of nervous collapse, Black Ivory were a little more poised and polished. Despite the level of skill of Leroy Burgess' falsetto, and the close harmonies of Stuart Bascombe and Russell Patterson, the group was patently hit or miss. "Don't Turn Around" and "Time Is Love" both exemplify the sweetness and haunting sound of the group. The phenomenal self-pity classic "I'll Find a Way" has the great and funny lyric "I'm the loneliest man in town." Not surprisingly, this has its fair share of duds. Tracks "Wishful Thinking," "Loveland," and "I Keep Asking You Questions" are well sung but faceless. The odd "Our Future" doesn't even feature singing, but "supercool" conversation that was an unfortunate given for most R&B groups in the early '70s. For fans, all of these songs and more are known, but this set also includes something different. The group's best-known song, "You & I," shows up here in a newer version with telltale late-'80s synths. While not as strong as the original, it won't make a fan snap the CD in two. Like many '90s Golden Classics releases, this isn't a greatest-hits collection but rather one of individual album efforts. Regardless what the title is, this is worth picking up.

Attached are both Q-Tip's "Gettin Up" and Black Ivory's "You & I. Once again, make the old new!!!

Black Ivory "You & I"

Q-Tip - "Gettin Up"

Liquid Soul V.23

2008-09-25T21:33:00.000-07:00

I know that it has been a little while since the last posting. For that, I apologize. Despite my hiatus, I am back to supply you all with good music once again. Attached is Liquid Soul V.23. This particular mix was my first mix that I performed with CDJs (CD Turntables). I was and am still not a fan, but much to my chagrin I put this together. I guess the point is that it shouldn't matter the conduit as long as your music gets out.

Liquid Soul V.23

Caught Up - Teedra Moses

Talk To Me - Jill Scott

Nicolay Beat

Come Around - Foreign Exchange

Elevate Your Mind - Strange Fruit Project

World Full Of Sadness - Slum Village

Marvine - Jay Dee/D'Angelo

Flawless - Clara Hill

I Want You (Tabone RMX) - Marvin Gaye

Come See Me - Vikter Duplaix

Caution - Teedra Moses

One Night - Profyle

U Bring The Dog Out (In Me) - Rhythm & Knowledge

Get Here - Rahsaan Patterson

Nobody Knows Me - Aya

What Would You Do? - Shades

Smile - DJ Rogers Jr.

Mocha Soul - Impromp2

Fallin' In Love Again - Mo B. Dick

Love Junkies (RMX) - CAM ft. Cameo & J-Dilla

You Are - Clara Hill

HYPNOTIK SOUL VOLUME 4 IS NOW AVAILABLE AT MOOD'S MUSIC IN LITTLE FIVE POINTS (ATLANTA)

2008-09-17T08:31:00.000-07:00

GREETINGS EVERYONE,

I REALIZE THAT IT HAS BEEN QUITE SOME TIME SINCE I LAST POSTED AND I APOLOGIZE. EVEN SO, HAVE NO FEAR...I AM BACK, BACK WITH A GREAT GIFT: HYPNOTIK SOUL VOLUME 4. THIS VOLUME CONTINUES WITH THE MUSICAL TRADITIONS OF ITS' PREDECESSORS. CRITICS HAVE VIEWED THIS ONE AS MY BEST WORK YET. SO, PLEASE SUPPORT ME IN THIS MUSICAL ENDEAVOR AS THEY ARE AVAILABLE AT MOODS MUSIC IN LITTLE FIVE POINTS (RIGHT NEXT TO AMERICAN APPAREL AND CHERRY BOMB) OR IF YOU'D LIKE I CAN SHIP IT OUT TO YOU...WHATEVER YOUR PLEASURE. DON'T MISS OUT..LIMITED EDITION!!!

J-FINESSE

jfins@yahoo.com

404-232-0260

Welcome to SUITE 135!!!

2008-06-22T19:31:00.000-07:00

I would like to talk about a time in my life in which I was actually unemployed. It was around 2004, stressed with bills and all the time in the world, I decided to use my time wisely and "inject" my creative juices into several projects. I called this one Suite 135 because that was the actual address where I was living at the time. Uncertain of my next moves, I just cranked out mix after mix. Attached is one that I did maybe a month into my unemployment.

Enjoy!!!

Suite 135 (Circa '04)

The Morning After - Andre' 3000

Prototype - Andre' 3000

Find A Way - Frank McComb

Take A Message - Remy Shand

By Your Side (RMX) - Sade

Goodbye - Kai Simmons

Harmonize - John Forte' ft. Robin Springer

Crazy - Javier

Beautiful U R - Javier

Didn't Mean - Mary J. Blige

Searchin' - Little Big Bee

Rocket Ship (RMX) - Donnie

Fly - Rebirth

Looking For Love - Vikter Duplaix

Low Down - Sweetback

Made For The Game - Peven Everett

Remind Me - Patrice Rushen

Summer Days - Jimmy Summerville ft. John Legend

In Search of Lost Soul!!!

2008-06-10T12:14:00.000-07:00

I remember it like it was yesterday. My "sands" and I happened to go on a road trip to the University of Alabama and kick it with our bruhs over at the frat house. Amid all of the events that were going on, I stumbled across a gentleman groovin' to the tunes that were being played on the stereo. We engaged in light banter and found out that we both had a passion for music. And so, as the years went on, we exchanged many musical masterpieces. One in particular, is a twenty-something volume set that he called "The Gruvement". Attached is Volume 22, which showcases some hidden gems from some unknown and known artists. Good work Lost Soul. Keep hitting us with the good stuff!!!

Finesse

More Liquid Folks.....

2008-06-03T18:57:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone, I hope that all is well. Here is another dose of liquid soul that I did back in 2000. Enjoy!!

Finesse

Liquid Soul V.18 (circa '00)

Intro - Ursula Rucker

Hustle - Slum Village (Rare)

Ghetto Heaven - Family Stand

Groove Thang - Zhane'

Temporary Nights - Maxwell

Well (Instrumental) - DJ Quik ft. Raphael Saadiq

New Language - Spacek

Jazzy's Groove - Soul II Soul (Classic)

Fairplay - Soul II Soul (Classic)

Instrumental -Hi-Fidelity

Feelin' It - Kamal The Abstract (Rare)

Tape You - NERD

Hard To Get - Black Coffee

I See You - Ruff Endz

Nothing Can Come Between Us - Sade

Sun - New Sector Movement

One For All - Brand Nubian

Never Stop - Brand New Heavies

Shook Up On Your Love - Modoji

Brazillian Instrumental - Chico

Full Moon - Brandy

THE DIGITAL REVOLUTION!!!

2008-05-27T16:25:00.000-07:00

Friends and members of my musical family, I would like to talk about a certain aspect that was introduced to me about 4 years ago. Essentially, I was listening to a mix from a DJ friend by the name of Ox Banga and while listening, I noticed certain nuances that were quite different from my mix cds. I noticed that his mixes were very intricate in that, I heard multi-tracks going on at the same time. As curious as I was to learn something new, I inquired as to how he could make a simple mix sound so studio-like. He explained to me that all of the mixes were done on digital mixer board. Ox further went on to say that the board not only allowed him to multi-track, but allowed him to erase mistakes or even save a mix and then come back to it later. I thought to myself unbelievable and asked how long did it take to learn. Ox responded and said that it took him no time to learn. I scoffed at his response and said whatever, but low and behold, I picked up one while in Little Rock and quickly found out that he wasn't lying. It took me a total of 5 minutes to get the gist of everything. From there, it was all she wrote. So, behold attached is the first digital mix cd that I recorded back in '05. The whole mix took me 8 hours to produce, but it was well worth it. Sit back relax and enjoy!!!

Finesse

It is better to be LIQUID.........

2008-05-05T21:00:00.000-07:00

Here we are folks. Again another tasty treat for you all to enjoy and pop in your IPods.

This was actually the last one of the Liquid Soul series. However, it is not the last in what I

have to give you in the near future.

Finesse

Liquid Soul V.20 (circa '01)

Wonderful - India Arie

Give Me - Jill Scott

That Girl - Stevie Wonder

Here We Go - Portrait

Gotta Have Your Love - Mantronix (Rare Classic)

Baby Be Mine - Michael Jackson

Make You Feel That Way (Inst) - Blackalicious

Imagination - Hansoul (Rare)

Stay Awhile - Loose Ends

The Rain - Oran " Juice" Jones (Classic)

Is It Good To You - Heavy D. & The Boyz

That's The Joint, That's The Jam - Black Eyed Peas (Before Fergie)

You Called And Told Me - Jeff Redd

Give Me The Night - George Benson

Step On Up - Boyz II Men

Jazz (Inst) - Soulive

Peachfuzz (Inst) - KMD

Good Lovin' - Ledesi

My Love - Carl Macintosh

Saturday - Brand New Heavies ft. Mos Def

No One - Maxwell

It's Been A Long Time..........(Liquid Soul V.14)

2008-04-26T08:02:00.000-07:00

Hey gang, I know that you all have been missing the latest mixes. Things on the J-O-B were hectic and I had to take care of other things. So, here I am making up for last week. Here is another volume of Liquid Soul for your listening pleasure.

Finesse

Liquid Soul V.14 (Circa '00)

Black Star - Yazara

Bonita Applebaum (RMX) - A Tribe Called Quest

Illusions - Santessa

When It Came - Break Reform

I'll Do For You - DJ Rogers

Sittin' Back - Res

Supa Dupa Luva - Guru

Just Friends - Musiq Soulchild

Don't Stop - Spanish Fly

Open - Beatminerz ft. Caren Wheeler & Pete Rock

Greater Kind Of Love - D-Vas

Tribe Instrumental

Certified - Guru ft. JayDee & Bilal

Check The Rhime - A Tribe Called Quest

Dance With Me (Inst) - De La Soul

Run To The Sun - NERD

Commercial Break 1

I Need More - D-Vas

Pain - The Pharcyde

Crush - Zhane'

The Blast - Talib Kweli

The Life - Fundesia

One On One - Daryl Hall & John Oates

Turn It Up (Inst) - The What

Outro -Curtis Mayfield

Hypnotik Soul V.3 & Southern House-pitality V.3 Coming Soon to Little 5 Soul & Earwax Records

2008-04-26T06:11:00.000-07:00

For all of those who were unaware, I have two editions of music that I currently sell in record stores. The titles are Hypnotik Soul and Southern House-pitality. Both editions have been received quite well and have helped me develop a following of fans in the process. Both editions will be released next week and will be ready for you all in the Atlanta area. The Southern House-pitality V.3 is an anniversary edition.....wow it has been a year already since the first volume was released. It will contain some grooved out house tracks as well as some classics that used to and still do rock the party!!!

Hypnotik Soul V.3 expands further into the neo-soul genre and infuses uk soul, hip-hop and a couple of other surprises. However, I can't tell you all....it would spoil the surprise. Anyways, head on down to Little 5 Soul or Earwax Records whenever you get a chance and pick up both if you can. I am sure your musical palate will be satisfied.

J-Fin

BEAT CENTRAL #4

2008-04-21T19:24:00.000-07:00

IT'S THAT TIME AGAIN TO HIT ON THE HEAD WITH ANOTHER BEAT. THIS IS ONE OF THE FIRST ONES THAT I EVER DID. THIS ONE INCORPORATES SAMPLES AND INTRICATE CHORD PROGRESSIONS. IT ACTUALLY WAS KINDA HARD BECAUSE I HADN'T PLAYED THE PIANO IN YEARS.

ENJOY!!!

"MY LOVE" - J-FINESSE

ARTIST INFLUENCE #4

2008-04-21T19:03:00.000-07:00

This week's artist of influence can be credited to a good friend of mine from New Orleans. She introduced me to this particular person when she heard some of the Latin music that I was playing on my system. She popped in a cd and immediately I was hooked. Essentially, I heard beautiful strings and melodies with a soft-melodic voice that instantly put me in the mindframe of a long vacation in some remote place with not a care in the world. When I inquired about the artist, my friend told me that it was Bebel Gilberto. Afterwards, I went to itunes and started downloading any and everything that I could. In addition, I did some research on this beautiful voice and her body of work. Attached is a biography from allmusic.com.

Bebel Gilberto has been recording with worldly famous artists like Kenny G, David Byrne, Amon Tobin, Smoke City, the Thievery Corporation, Towa Tei, Caetano Veloso, Chico Buarque, and João Gilberto. Gilberto also has had worldwide success as a songwriter with the song "Technova." Gilberto is from a famous musical family in Brazil. Her father is João Gilberto, her mother is the singer Miúcha, and her uncle (Miúcha's brother) is Chico Buarque de Hollanda. She learned how to sing with Miúcha, and since she was a child, she was already participating in professional musicals like Saltimbancos and Pirlimpimpim. At seven she had her recording debut on one of her mother's albums. At nine she performed together with her mother and Stan Getz at Carnegie Hall. In 1983, she shared an album with the singer Pedrinho Rodrigues (Um Certo Geraldo Pereira, Funarte). Nevertheless, she wisely managed her career, avoiding a hasty debut as a solo singer. Her first album was the EP Bebel Gilberto (Warner, 1986). Gilberto wrote the songs on the album together with Brazilian pop/rock artists like Cazuza ("Preciso Dizer Que Te Amo," which was also included in the Red Hot + Rio compilation and winner of the Sharp Award for Single of the Year in 1989, "Mais Feliz," re-recorded by Adriana Calcanhotto in the '90s also with great success), Dé, and others. In 1991, Gilberto moved to New York (where she was born) and began gigging in clubs, performing at the Lincoln Center, and working with David Byrne and Arto Lindsay, among others. In that year, she participated (together with Gal Costa, Naná Vasconcelos, and Laurie Anderson) in a tribute to Carmen Miranda, idealized by Arto Lindsay. She had noted participation in the productions that aimed at the dance music market with a Brazilian bossa nova scent, co-writing (with Deee-Lite's DJ/producer Towa Tei) the worldwide hit "Technova." She also appeared in singles by the Thievery Corporation ("Só Com Você") and the duo Arling & Cameron (on "Sem Contenção"). By the end of the '90s, she was living in England. In 1998, Gilberto had a duet with João Gilberto in his Carnegie Hall concert. Her first solo album, Tanto Tempo, came finally in 2000 (Ziriguiboom) and had a good performance at the world music charts. Tanto Tempo went on to earn two Latin Grammy Nominations for Best New Artist and Best Música Popular Brasileira Album in 2001. Its companion Tanto Tempo Remixes was also issued that same year. Gilberto hooked up with producer Marius de Vries for her second album shortly thereafter. The introspective self-titled effort appeared in mid-2004, followed three years later by Momento, which featured appearances from Brazilian Girls and Orquestra Imperial.

Attached is one of my favorite songs from Bebel. It struck a chord with me from the moment I first heard it.

"Mais Feliz"- Bebel Giberto

As usual, I had to do my own interpretation. Here it is!!! Enjoy!!!

"Bebel" - J-Finesse

DOUBLE DOSE OF LIQUID SOUL!!!

2008-04-13T14:37:00.000-07:00

HELLO ALL,

FIRST, I WANT TO APOLOGIZE FOR MISSING YOU ALL LAST WEEK. AS YOU CAN IMAGINE, WITH THE ECONOMY HEADING FOR THE ABYSS, I HAVE BEEN WORKING MY BUTT OFF. WELL, I HAVE A TREAT FOR YOU ALL ON THIS GO'ROUND. I AM GIVING YOU TWO VOLUMES OF LIQUID SOUL!!! THAT'S RIGHT, SO SIT BACK RELAX AND ENJOY!!!

LIQUID SOUL V.1 (CIRCA '99)

INTRO - COFFY SOUNDTRACK

HE IS - HEATHER HEADLEY

THE WOUND - JAZZYFATNASTIES

BREAK YOU OFF - THE ROOTS FT. MUSIQ SOULCHILD

COME CLOSE - COMMON FT. MARY J. BLIGE

STILL RAY - RAPHAEL SAADIQ

LOVE JUNKIES - CAM FT. CAMEO

FANATIC - VIVIAN GREEN

IT'S XTC - TRUTH HURTS

LOVE OF MY LIFE (ODE TO HIP-HOP) - ERYKAH BADU FT. COMMON

YOU MAKE ME FEEL REAL - RAHSAAN PATTERSON

FREE TO BELIEVE - JACK HERRARA

ILLUSIONS - SANTESSA

IT CAME - BREAK REFORM

JUST ANOTHER DAY - VIVIAN GREEN

LONELY GIRL - DJ ROGERS

LITTLE THINGS - INDIA ARIE

INSTRUMENTAL - AIM

SAO PAOLO - CHIC

SUMMERTIME IN ASPEN - KIM HILL

DAYS LIKE THIS (RMX) - SHAUN ESCOFFERY

FALLIN' STAR - LATOYA WILLIAMS

BRAZILLIA - MIGUEL MIGS

SOUL MAGIC - USCHI CLASSEN

BROWN SUGAR (SWEET) - MOS DEF FT. KANYE WEST

LIQUID SOUL V.5 (Circa '00)

INTRO - HOLDING YOU, LOVING YOU - DON BLACKMAN

WHY DIDN'T YOU CALL ME (88 KEYS RMX) - MACY GRAY

CAN'T BELIEVE - FAITH EVANS FT. CARL THOMAS

YOU USED TO LOVE ME - FAITH EVANS

ONE WOMAN MAN - DAVID HOLLISTER

LEFT, RIGHT - D'ANGELO FT. REDMAN & METHOD MAN

NAG CHAMPA - COMMON

GET ALONG WITH YOU - KELIS

LOOK OF LOVE (RMX) - SLUM VILLAGE

MISS FAT BOOTY - MOS DEF

INSTRUMENTAL - ST. GERMAIN

BROKEN BRANCHES - FERTILE GROUND

ICE KING - RES

LOVE FOR FREE - RELL FT. JAY-Z

SOMETIMES - MUSIQ SOULCHILD

THE GREATEST ROMANCE THAT HAS EVER BEEN SOLD (RMX) - PRINCE FT. Q-TIP & PHARRELL

FIRE - BRIDGETTE MCWILLIAMS

HOT PANTS - J. SPENCER

REMIND ME - PATRICE RUSHEN

OUTRO

There's Nothing Better Than More Liquid!!!

2008-03-30T16:15:00.000-07:00

Liquid Soul V.16 (Circa '00)

Intro (Gotta Get Up) - Jill Scott

Doin What I Can - Raphael Saadiq

Masquerade - Toshi Kuboto

It's Alright - Cooly's Hot Box

As - George Michael ft. Mary J. Blige

The Next Movement - The Roots

Get Dis Money - Slum Village

Everytime - Toi

Love - Michael Phillips

Breakadawn (Instrumental) - De La Soul

Left Field (Instrumental) - Yaggfu Front

Philadelphia - Bahamadia ft. Dwele'

Butterflies (RMX) - Michael Jackson ft. Floetry & Eve

What About Our Love (RMX) - Maysa

What About Our Love - Maysa

Ascension (Ever Wonder) - Maxwell

Black Capricorn Day (JayDee RMX) - Jamariqai ft. Slum Village

Electric Relaxation - A Tribe Called Quest

Carry On - Fertile Ground

No More - INI ft. Pete Rock

Can't Wait - Jaguar Wright ft. Bilal

The Light - Common

Ego Trippin' (Instrumental) - De La Soul

FELA......The Legend!!!

2008-03-30T12:51:00.000-07:00

Wow, so much can be said about Fela Kuti. Fela, as he preferred to be called, was more than a musician. He was a politcal activist & pure socialist amoung other things. To much surprise, my introduction to Fela was just a few short years ago while djing a party for a friend. I needed something new to incorporate in my House sets. So, I called fellow friend, DJ Nabani and asked him to bring over some records that he thought I'd might enjoy. Around 12, in comes Nabani with a couple of records that had weird looking labels on them. Some said Afro-Beat and others said Fela. All he said was "trust me" and I did. It has been history ever since.

It's almost impossible to overstate the impact and importance of Fela Anikulapo (Ransome) Kuti (or just Fela as he's more commonly known) to the global musical village: producer, arranger, musician, political radical, outlaw. He was all that, as well as showman par excellence, inventor of Afro-beat, an unredeemable sexist, and a moody megalomaniac. His death on August 3, 1997 of complications from AIDS deeply affected musicians and fans internationally, as a musical and sociopolitical voice on a par with Bob Marley was silenced. A press release from the United Democratic Front of Nigeria on the occasion of Fela's death noted: "Those who knew you well were insistent that you could never compromise with the evil you had fought all your life. Even though made weak by time and fate, you remained strong in will and never abandoned your goal of a free, democratic, socialist Africa." This is as succinct a summation of Fela's political agenda as one is likely to find.

Below is one of my favorite songs from Fela. It is called "True Don Die". Enjoy and feel what he was trying to say through his music. This song is also a great song for House sets!!!

Another Dose of Liquid Soul!!!

2008-03-24T17:18:00.000-07:00

Liquid Soul V.15 (Circa '00)

Intro

Excuse Me - Raaphael Saadiq ft. Angie Stone & Calvin Richardson

Blue Jeans - Blue Jeans

Find A Way - 9 Yards ft. JayDee

Faithfully - Faith Evans

Silent Treatment RMX - The Roots

Hustlin' Dayz - Guru ft. Donell Jones

I Didn't Mean To Turn You On - Koffee Brown

Lovely Day - Bill Withers

Climax - Slum Village

Black Gold Of The Sun - A Tribe Called Quest

Time's Ticking Away - Loose Ends

Keep On Movin' RMX - Soul II Soul

Magnificent - Mos Def

Gangsta Bi..h (Inst) - Apache

Overjoyed - Boys Choir Of Harlem ft. D'Angelo

Funky For You (Inst) - Common

Instrumental - J-Live

Thug Nature (Inst) - 2Pac

This Time Around RMX - Michael Jackson ft. Notorious B.I.G.

Funky 4 U - Bahamadia ft. Slum Village

Sometimes RMX - The Brand New Heavies ft. Q-Tip

BEAT CENTRAL #3

2008-03-16T20:59:00.000-07:00

On my last entry for Beat Central #2 I spoke about adding more keys and chords to my beats. Well this time, I am putting everything together....everything that I have learned over the years and in the last couple of weeks. Shout out to Ace, Talib, & Mike J for teaching a brother. Attached is the latest installment. Enjoy!!!

J-Finesse

My Melody - J-Finesse

GOT LIQUID?

2008-03-16T20:50:00.000-07:00

LIQUID SOUL V.4

Intro

Should I - Grenique

Why - Eric Benet ft. The Roots

Dial 911 RMX (Inst) - Wyclef Jean ft. Mary J. Blige

All in Your Mind (Inst) - J. Sands

Get Up - Amel Larrieux

Bee-Bop Song - Miles Davis

Tell Me - Slum Village ft. D'Angelo

Strength, Courage & Wisdom (RMX) - India Arie

Push - Jay Dee ft. Phat Katt

What You Do 2 Me - Tha Truth ft. Kenny Greene

Fakin' Jax - INI ft. Pete Rock

Force -AIM

Pete Rock Beat

One In A Million - Pete Rock & CL Smooth

Me & Those Dreamin' Eyes (RMX) - D'Angelo ft. Erick Sermon

Bye Bye Baby - Lina

Spiritual - Fertile Ground

Don't You Forget - Glenn Lewis

Candles - Pru

Verses From The Abstract - A Tribe Called Quest

Rock Box - Que -Dee

The Notic' - The Roots ft. D'Angelo & Erykah Badu

Outro

Here you go gang. Another volume of Liquid Soul.

Enjoy!!!

J-Finesse - Liquid Soul V.4

Artist Influence #3

2008-03-16T20:04:00.000-07:00

Lenny Kravitz.......The Modern Day Jimi Hendrix

"WELL WE MOVING ON UP/ TO THE EAST SIDE", you all know the rest. Anyways, the all-time leading sitcom, The Jeffersons not only produced a catchy tune, but also introduced us with multi-faceted characters that were unforgetable. One in particular is the Roxie Roker character of Helen, wife of Tom. Roker was also the mother of this weeks artist spotlight: Lenny Kravitz.

There may have been other "retro" rock acts before him, but Lenny Kravitz was one of the first to not be pigeonholed to a single style as he touched upon such genres as soul, funk, reggae, hard rock, psychedelic, folk, and ballads over the years. Born in New York on May 26, 1964 (his mother was actress Roxie Roker, best-known for her role as Helen Willis on the popular TV series The Jeffersons, and his father was a TV producer), Kravitz was raised in Los Angeles, where he found himself around countless musical giants as a youngster due to his parents friendships with the likes of Duke Ellington, Sarah Vaughan, Count Basie, Ella Fitzgerald, Bobby Short, and Miles Davis. Kravitz was a member of the California Boys Choir until his teenage years, when he decided to pursue rock & roll while in high school and under the heavily influence of funk rocker Prince. Kravitz's admiration of the Purple One was so great that he at first patterned his style and approach directly after Prince and became known as "Romeo Blue" (complete with blue contact lenses), but failed to land a recording contract.

In the late '80s, Kravitz relocated back to New York City, where one of his roommates turned out to be actress Lisa Bonet (who played the part of Denise Huxtable on The Cosby Show); they eventually got married. During this time, Kravitz wisely discarded his Prince-like approach and looked back to such '60s/'70s classic rockers as Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Wonder, Curtis Mayfield, Bob Marley, and the Beatles for inspiration. Kravitz found a kindred spirit in engineer Henry Hirsch (who would stick by Kravitz throughout his career). With a back-to-basics approach, his style was quite refreshing in the humorously gaudy late '80s. He inked a recording contract with Virgin Records and issued his debut release, Let Love Rule, in 1989. Kravitz's debut proved to be a surprise hit due to the success of the title track, which became a hit single and oft-aired video. A few critics were quick to assume that Kravitz's retro look and sound were simply a shtick to get the public's attention, but come the '90s, it had become integrated into the mainstream (both musically and fashion-wise), proving that Kravitz was a bit of a trendsetter.

It was around this time that Kravitz penned a major hit single, not for himself but for Madonna, who went to number one with the sultry track "Justify My Love." What should have been a time of happiness for Kravitz quickly turned sour as he and Bonet divorced by the early '90s. Kravitz's heartbreak was very evident in his sophomore effort, Mama Said, which was even stronger than its predecessor, highlighted by the Led Zep-like funk rocker "Always on the Run" (a collaboration with Guns N' Roses guitarist Slash), as well as the mega hit with the Curtis Mayfield-esque soul ballad "It Ain't Over 'Til It's Over," which confirmed that Kravitz's success was no fluke. But the best was yet to come for Kravitz. His third release overall, 1993's Are You Gonna Go My Way, is often considered to be the finest album front to back of his entire career, and with good reason: Every single song was a winner, including the up-tempo anthemic title track, which turned out to be one of MTV's most played videos for that year. The album was a massive hit and Kravitz became an arena headliner stateside, as well as being featured on countless magazine covers. Despite an almost two-year gap between albums, Kravitz's fourth release, Circus, came off sounding unfocused and was a major letdown compared to his stellar previous few releases. Perhaps sensing that he needed to stir things up musically, Kravitz dabbled with electronics and trip-hop loops for his next album, 1998's 5. Although not a huge hit right off the bat, the album proved to have an incredibly long chart life, spawning the biggest hit of Kravitz's career, "Fly Away," almost a year after its original release. With the single's success, Virgin decided to cash in on the album's sudden rebirth by reissuing it around the same time with a pair of extra added bonus tracks, one of which became another sizeable hit single, a remake of the Guess Who's "American Woman" (which was used in the hit 1999 comedy movie Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me). Kravitz's first best-of set, the 15-track Greatest Hits, was issued as a stopgap release in 2000, while his sixh studio release overall, Lenny, was issued a year later. Baptism followed in 2004.

After starting a residential, commercial, and product design company called Kravitz Design, he recorded a funky version of John Lennon's "Cold Turkey" for Amnesty International's 2007 benefit compilation Instant Karma. Before the end of the year it was announced that Kravitz would return in 2008 with a new album, It Is Time for a Love Revolution. The album arrived in February, accompanied by a brief tour.In addition to his own albums, Kravitz continues to pen songs for other artists and his compositions have appeared on albums by such rock heavyweights as Aerosmith and Mick Jagger, while he produced and wrote the majority of Vanessa Paradis' obscure self-titled 1992 release.

As a tribute to Lenny, I decided to remake one of my favorite songs by him. The song is called "Storm" and is found on his 2004 release Baptism. I have attached his version and mine to show the similarities and differences. Enjoy!!!

Lenny Kravitz - Storm ('04)

J-Finesse ft. Lenny Kravitz & Jay-Z - Storm ('08)

NEEDLE DROP #4

2008-03-16T18:58:00.000-07:00

A TRIBE CALLED RAMP

The time was 1989-1990 and the place was Shreveport, Louisiana. I remember it like it was yesterday. My church youth group was attending DCYM training at Centenary College...home of Robert Parish(Boston Celtics). The story goes, that I was trying to win the affection of a young lady from Lake Charles, but had no game and with my futile attempts hopped in the church van dejected and ready to come home to the embrace of my mother. Well on the way back home I asked to stop at the local record store and happened to buy the new debut release from A Tribe Called Quest. Being that I already had been jamming the 12 inch single of "Description of A Fool", I definitely needed a boost in spirits and this was going to do it for me. Well after flipping the tape over to side two, I stumbled upon the song that changed my life; "Bonita Applebaum". I remember cringing at the intro because is sounded so weird, but when the beat dropped I was hooked and I mean "hooked". Suffice it to say, I had to have played that song for the rest of the trip home.

After figuring the placement, I quickly threw it into my mixes during parties and people would always ask me who was that. I would say the "next big thing in hip-hop" and go on about my mixing. As the years went on, Bonita Applebaum became a Hip-Hop Classic and is still rocking parties to this day. Surprisingly, I heard it on V103 Friday morning and was just so elated to hear it.

The funny thing about the song is that I never knew who did the original because for the longest I thought that it was an orginal from ATCQ. Upon my searching, I finally found out that it was the group RAMP. Oddly enough, I remembered that my dad had the 45rpm, but of the song, "Everybody Loves The Sunshine". It really wasn't until 2000 when I found the album and paid $100.00 for a mint condition album....probably the most I have paid for a record to date. After the listening to RAMP's album, I realize there were more songs that were sampled by other artists and became even more intrigued.

A group that was based in Cincinnati and also an acronym for "Roy Ayers Music Productions," RAMP released one album in 1977 that didn't do all that much upon its release. However, decades later, as appreciation for anything bearing the mark of jazz-funk legend Roy Ayers has increased, the album has become a revered rare groove classic. Supported by the excellent "Daylight" (sampled by A Tribe Called Quest for "Bonita Applebaum") and a version of Ayers' "Everybody Loves the Sunshine," two anti-gravity soul/jazz-funk pearls, the rare album has been known to fetch extremely high prices among collectors. (It was reissued on CD in Japan in early 2007 and later in October in the United States.) The group — bassist Nate White, drummer John Manuel, guitarist Landy Shores, and vocalists Sibel Thrasher and Sharon Matthews — folded after the album's release but reconvened during the early 2000s.

So there you have it. The story behind one of hip-hop's classic songs. Below you will find the original and Tribe's version. Enjoy!!!

Ramp - Daylight ('77)

A Tribe Called Quest - Bonita Applebum ('89)

More Liquid Please!!!!

2008-03-10T19:47:00.000-07:00

As promised, I have attached another volume of Liquid Soul. Indulge yourself in the melodious sounds of Neo-Soul, Hip-Hop, & R&B.

Enjoy!!!

Liquid Soul V.12 (Circa '00)

Intro

Slowly, Surely - Jill Scott

All Night Long - Common ft. Erykah Badu

Stay - Jaguar Wright

It's A Party (RMX) - Busta Rhymes ft. Zhane

Remindin' Me Of Myself (Again) - Common

Mellow '00 - Instrumental

Aim - Force

In Due Time - Outkast ft. Cee-Lo

One More Day - Glenn Lewis

Stressed Out - A Tribe Called Quest ft. Consequence & Faith Evans

Check The Vibe (RMX) - Dred Scott

Check The Vibe - Dred Scott ft. Adriana Evans

Housewife (Instrumental) - Dr. Dre

Sending You My Love - Zhane

Wish You Were My Girl - Babyface

Weekend (Instrumental) - Kenny Latimore

Reminisce - Bilal ft. Common

Instrumental - Planet Asia

Sun God - Common

Luvin' U - Musiq

Act For You - Spacek

Like This, Like That (Instrumental) - A Tribe Called Quest

EMBRACE - Society Of Soul

The Rhyme (J-Dilla RMX) - Keith Murray

Download Here!!!

Liquid Soul (The Unheard Edition)

2008-03-02T11:09:00.000-08:00

Back at the turn of the century I was really upset at what the radio was playing. A lot of garbage was released and there was a void in the music world. I found myself really searching for the type of music that would evoke that "feeling" of utopia. As a result, I went on shopping excursions to acquire hundreds of Neo-Soul albums. I covered the entire earth searching for that vibe......shouts out to Dusty Grooves, Earwax, Moods, Satellite, Dr.Waxx, Ameoba, Rasputin, Tower, More Dusty Than Digital, Bowie's, Peaches, Odyssey, & Hip-Hopsite.com. After completing the very expensive mission of buying all that wax, I decided to put everything down in the form of a mix cd. What started as one mix cd that actually sold well, turned into a 20 volume set. Unfortunately, the rigors of corporate america began to stress me and I never put any thought in releasing the rest of the volumes.

Well here we are in 2008, and I have uncovered my mini-discs that contained my masters and realized that there was a lot of great music on those discs. I oftentimes think about where would I be had I released all of them...(no pun intended Jamad).

Anyways, my slip-up is your gain. I am going to release all of the volumes over the next months. Starting off in no particular order, here we go!!!

Enjoy!!!

Liquid Soul V.17 by J-Finesse (Circa '00)

Intro

Testin' Me - Peven Everett

Am I Worth You? - De La Soul ft. Glenn Lewis

Maria, Maria - Carlos Santana

So Flute - St. Germain Tourist

Sumthin' Sumthin' - Maxwell

Rebirth Of Slick (Instrumental) - Digable Planets

Georgy Peorgy - Faith Evans ft. Eric Benet

Happy - Surface

Get Involved - Raphael Saadiq

Been Around The World - Tina Novak

Ghetto Heaven (RMX Instrumental) - Common ft. J-Dilla

Dance Tonight - Lucy Pearl

W.O.E. (Instrumetal) - Jurassic 5

Tom's Diner - DNA ft. Suzanne Vega

Get To Know You - Maxwell

Back To Life (RMX) - Soul II Soul

Rico Suave Bossa Nova - J-Dilla

By Your Side (Bossa Nova RMX) - Sade

Love Will Find A Way - Lionel Richie

Hey DJ - Zhane

Download Here!!!

Artist Influence Central #2

2008-02-28T15:59:00.000-08:00

LOOSE ENDS OR ENDS LOOSE.......

The artists that I would like to profile this week make up the group Loose Ends. Loose Ends definitely were ahead of their time in that there music served as a prequel to what we now call "Neo-Soul". I can remember jammin' their songs, "Hanging On A String", "Slow Down" and "Mr. Bachelor" in my little jam box.

One of the top British dance and urban contemporary trios in the early '80s, Loose Ends formed in London. They were originally called Loose End, and included Carl McIntosh, Jane Eugene, and Steve Nichol. Virgin signed them in 1981, and their debut was written by Chris and Eddie Amoo of the Real Thing. The group changed its name to Loose Ends in 1983, and signed with MCA in America in 1984. Their single "Hanging on a String (Contemplating)" topped the R&B charts in 1985, and they repeated that achievement in 1986 with "Slow Down." Their last hit was "Watching You" in 1988, which reached number two. The group shuffled its lineup in 1990 for the release of Look How Long, with McIntosh now joined by Linda Carriere and Sunay Suleyman. McIntosh also produced several artists, notably Caron Wheeler.

A good friend of mine, Lost Soul put this mix out a couple of years ago and I just fell in love with the mix. Good stuff Los!!! Please find attached Lost Soul's mix.

Ends Loose (Circa '05) - Lost Soul

Beat Central #2

2008-02-27T18:29:00.000-08:00

BEAT CENTRAL PT. 2

As you all already know, I have been trying to master my craft in beat-making. I have really surprised myself in that, I have really learned a lot in such a short time. Lately, I have been working on incorporating more keys to my tracks to give them a fuller sound. I have also been receiving great response.....shout out to all of the people who gave me good feedback.

Anyways, I was listening to a couple of classic tracks and one in particular caught my attention. The song that I am speaking of is Burt Backarach's "Look Of Love". Released in the 60's, this songs has been remixed and redone many times from various artists including Isaac Hayes, Diana Krall and my favorite, J-Dilla.

Well, I decided to put my twist on it. Check a remake by Dusty Springfield then check out my version.

Enjoy!!!

Dusty Springfield - Look Of Love

J-Finesse - Look Of Love

The Man Behind Run DMC!!!

2008-02-24T17:19:00.000-08:00

NEEDLE DROP #3

Remember when you were doing dances like "The Prep", "The Roger Rabbit" and "The Running Man". You ever wonder what people were behind all of those sampled rap classics? Well, I really did. The funny thing is that I really didn't read liner notes until De La Soul and Biz Markie were both sued over illegal sample use. Anyways, I wanted to talk about a guy who could be considered as "Blue-Eyed Soul". The person I am speaking of is Bob James.

Bob James' recordings have practically defined pop/jazz and crossover during the past few decades. Very influenced by pop and movie music, James has often featured R&B-ish soloists (most notably Grover Washington, Jr.) who add a jazz touch to what is essentially an instrumental pop set. He actually started out in music going with a much different direction. In 1962, James recorded a bop-ish trio set for Mercury, and three years later his album for ESP was quite avant-garde, with electronic tapes used for effects. After a period with Sarah Vaughan (1965-1968), he became a studio musician, and by 1973 was arranging and working as a producer for CTI. In 1974, James recorded his first purely commercial effort as a leader; he later made big-selling albums for his own Tappan Zee label, Columbia, and Warner Bros., including collaborations with Earl Klugh and David Sanborn. James remains relatively busy in the studio and since 2000 has released several albums including Dancing on the Water in 2001, That Steamin' Feelin' in 2002, Hi-Fi in 2003, and Urban Flamingo in 2006, among others.

For all of those Hip-Hop heads out there, think back to 1986-1987 when the famous rap group, Run DMC crossed over into mainstream and became a weekly favorite on MTV. The album was called "Raising Hell" and everybody had that album. The hit single, "Walk This Way" propelled the group to platinum status, but it was a cut, "Peter Piper" that set the clubs on fire. Released as a 12inch single, "Peter Piper" instantly became a classic party rocker. Oddly enough, I didn't realize that the song was a sample until I was in college.....go figure. Anyways, the man behind the classic song was none other than, Bob James.

Run DMC cleverly took advantage and used the beat before anyone else did. The name of the song is called "Take Me To The Mardi Gras" which can be found on Bob James album, "Tw0".

"Take Me To The Mardi Gras" has everything that you need to start your Mardi Gras off just right. Interestingly, the song was used as a backdrop to many New Orleans, Bounce Music tracks. Put on "Peter Piper", and you would definitely get a warm reaction from not just the guys, but THE GIRLS. (EVER HEARD OF P-POPPIN). Last factoid about "Take Me To The Mardi Gras" is that Paul Simon wrote the song.

Below find both classics for your listening pleasures!!!

Take Me To The Mardi Gras - Bob James

Peter Piper - Run DMC

The Millenium Falcon Has Landed!!! (Beat Central)

2008-02-17T16:15:00.000-08:00

On my last blog posting with Patrice Rushen, I showcased a beat that I did and I received great reviews on it. Well gang, I present to you a new section call BEAT CENTRAL. These blogs will showcase my talents in beatmaking capabilities. I encourage everyone to comment on my beats and let me know what your thoughts are....positive or negative....just be honest.

Here is a beat that I did a couple of weeks ago.

I hope you all enjoy.

Artist Influence Central!!!

2008-02-17T15:41:00.000-08:00

Hello world. Just wanted to check in with you all and I hope that all is well. A couple of days ago, I said to myself that I wanted to start a blog section that spotlights artists that have influenced me as an artist in my own right. I decided to call it ARTIST INFLUENCE CENTRAL. AIC, will be updated every week and will spotlight an artist that may have been major or minor in the industry, but the impact was tremendous. As such, I decided to start with a wonderful woman in jazz/r&b. She goes by the name of Patrice Rushen. An artist who not only influenced myself, but hip-hop and r&b.

Born September 30,1954, in Los Angeles, CA, Rushen's parents enrolled her in music classes at U.S.C. when she was three. In her teens, she won a solo competition at the 1972 Monterey Jazz Festival. The attention garnered from this earned her a contract with Prestige Records. After recording three albums and becoming an in-demand session player, Rushen signed with Elektra Records in 1978. Forging an engaging jazz/R&B/funk fusion, she regularly hit the R&B charts. Her five albums for the label were Patrice, Pizzazz, Posh, Straight From the Heart, and Now. Some of these sides can be found on Haven't You Heard:The Best of Patrice Rushen. In 1993, Rushen signed with Disney's Hollywood Records. Her first and only release was the excellent Anything but Ordinary, which yielded the inspiring single "My Heart, Your Heart." Hollywood wasn't satisfied with the album and shelved it. Sindrome Records bought the rights to the album and reissued it with the single, and some LP tracks received airplay on R&B and smooth jazz radio stations. Rushen became a member of the jazz collective the Meeting, appearing on several releases. Her busy schedule includes session dates and being the musical director for several different tours and TV specials. 1997's Signature found Rushen returning to her jazz roots for this solid album of instrumentals. In fall 2000, Patrice Rushen appeared as a part of Sisters Being Positively Real, an act on Brown Baby Entertainment Group.

One of my favorite cuts by Patrice Rushen is "Remind Me" found on the "Straight From The Heart" LP. I first heard it back in 1982 and I am still loving it to this day.

As a bonus, attached is a beat that I did in my studio paying homage to Patrice in my own way. I call this song simply, "PATRICE". Check it out!!!

Thank You God for the late '80s and early '90s!!!

2008-02-10T18:24:00.000-08:00

Boy, do I remember the days of Cosby Show, A Different World, Video Soul, Video LP, Rap City w/ Chris Thomas "The Mayor", School Daze, House Party, Boyz N The Hood & of course, New Jack City. The years '87-'92 were great years for music as well. Fashion was vibrant.....to say the least. It was around this time that I found a love for DJing, barbering, and girls. I guess you could say that the movie, The Wood would sum everything up for me.

In regards to R&B, the music scene was transitioning from the big band sound as well as moving away from the synthesizer, pop-keyboard sound. Most of the urban sound was becoming younger and edgier with the help of a technique called sampling and the introduction to the SP 1200 and MPC 60 and MPC 60II.

Many new faces began to emerge as talented multi-million selling artists that commanded the radio and t.v. with the help of the music video.

For me, these years served as inspiration and also began the descension of my then-perfect G.P.A. Not saying that music had a negative affect on me, but forced me to realize other talents that were suppressed and ready to be released.

Attached is a recent mix that reflects the feelings and thoughts that I had as a 12 year old beginning DJ.

To all of the artists that made an impact on me during this time period, thank you so much.

J-Finesse

New Jack Swing '08

Don't Wanna Fall In Love - Jane Child ('90)

Why You Gettin' Funky On Me - Today ('90)

Is It Good To You - Heavy D & The Boyz ('92)

Something Just Ain't Right - Keith Sweat ('88)

New Jack Swing - Wreckz N Effect ('90)

I Thought It Was Me - BBD ('89)

Groove Me - Guy ('88)

New Jack City - Guy ('91)

I'm Dreamin' - Christopher Williams ('91)

We Got Our Own Thang - Heavy D & The Boyz ('89)

Just Got Paid - Johnny Kemp ('88)

Your Sweetness - The Good Girls ('89)

Poison (RMX) - BBD ('89)

Do The Right Thing - Redhead Kingpin ft. Big Bubb ('89)

Yo Baby Yo - Ralph Tresvant ('92)

Money Can't But You Love - Ralph Tresvant ('92)

Just As Me To - Tevin Campbell ft. Chubb Rock ('91)

Let The Beat Hit Em' - Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam ('91)

The Power - Chill Rob G ('89)

The Power - Snap ('89)

Ownlee Ewe - Kwame' & The New Beginning ('90)

Treat Em' Right - Chubb Rock ('90)

Kiss You Back - Digital Underground ('90)

Me, Myself & I - De La Soul ('88)

Can't Do Nuthin For Ya - Public Enemy ('90)

Tales From The Darkside - Ice Cube & Chuck D ('90)

I'm Mad - EPMD ('90)

Let The Rythym Hit Em' - Eric B & Rakim ('90)

Bad To The Bone - Kool G Rap & Polo ('90)

Get The Job Done - Big Daddy Kane ('89)

What U Waitin' 4 - The Jungle Brothers ('88)

Hot Music - Soho ('91)

Another Rare Gem!!!

2008-02-08T21:58:00.000-08:00

NEEDLE DROP #2

This particular rare gem I have to give credit to Soul Train. As you all probably already know, Retro-episodes of Soul Train are being aired again on the Chicago-based station, WGN and for the last year and some change, I have been religously watching and recording as many episodes as possible. One night, I just happened to pop in an episode that had Con Funk Shun as guest performers where they performed their hit "Got To Be Enough". During the interview with Don Cornelius, the members mentioned that the album was coming out soon and it was entitled "Spirit Of Love". From what I can remember, this album went on to be successful for the group and further solidified the group as a top-notch funk band.

Suffice it to say, that I pulled out the album from the collection in my studio and did some needle dropping and what do you know, another gem was found. As a matter of fact, the second track on the album entitled "By Your Side" is a stepper's dream. A mellow-mid tempo (83bpm) groove that spotlights the falsetto and tenor prowess of member, Felton C. Pilate. The funny thing about this particular record is that it saw new life 20 years later on the rap duo, 2nd II None's second album entitled "Classic 220" as the musical backbone of the song "Y?". Pilate did receive composer credits, but I am sure it was just pocket change due to the fact that the album produced lackluster sales.

"Y?" by 2nd II None (circa 2000)

At any rate, enjoy the original song that actually helped bring Con Funk Shun's album to Gold Status as the second single off of the album. Also, listen at how DJ Quik literally steals this song, but adds his signature G-Funk element to the record to make 2nd II None's version easy on the ear as well.

Oh, BTW, Felton C. Pilate went on to become a well paid producer in the early 90's for MC Hammer. Vallejo and Oakland rock on!!!

Enjoy!!!

J-Finesse

"By Your Side" by Con Funk Shun (circa 1980)

Remixapellas!!!

2008-02-05T20:20:00.000-08:00

Every now and then, I put remixes that I call remixapellas on my mix cds. Remixapellas are simply what the words says; remixes with acapellas. Essentially, I take the acapella (just the words) of one songs and blend it with the instrumental of another song. First, I make sure the tempo of each song matches and then I determine whether or not the two songs make sense. Lastly and most importantly, I make sure that the pitches of the vocals and instrumental both match. By doing all of these steps, you give the listener the perception that the songs is a new song that he or she has never heard before.

Attached is a mix that I did back in '05 when I was living in Little Rock, AR.

Enjoy!!!

J-Finesse

The man behind Jigga!!!!

2008-02-05T14:21:00.000-08:00

NEEDLE DROP #1

In an interview on the jacket of this album, Lonnie Liston Smith says that he underwent a personal crisis after some nasty dealings with a "big record company" (either RCA or Columbia). He then became a disciple of Sri Chinmoy — guru to John McLaughlin, Carlos Santana and many other musicians — went veggie, started meditating, became a new man. For all of that, little had changed in his music, which remains pleasant, gently funky and deeply into spiritual concerns but not in a heavy way. Again, Smith switches between acoustic and electric pianos, while brother Donald sweetly intones the serene lyrics or handles the flute, and Donald Hubbard offers ethereal soprano sax. Marcus Miller, the once and future Miles Davis collaborator, exerts some influence here by composing three of the eight tunes — none terribly memorable — and playing bass and keyboards.

The beauty of this album was the fact that it contained a rare gem that was given life by producer, E Ski of the group Original Flavor, as the backbone of the track Dead Presidents II by Jay-Z. Once again hip-hop breathes life into older music. Enjoy this rare gem.

J-Finesse

The Wright Funkster!!!!

2008-02-04T15:02:00.000-08:00

Wow, digging in the crates can be so much fun. I thought about this album after getting off of the phone with my oldest sister, Yolanda. I remembered when Yolanda would play this album and would play one particular cut entitiled "Won't You Let Me Love You". This song was more of a mid-tempo ballad that could be easily overlooked by the electronic direction that Wright was taking throughout the album.

Retaining the services of veteran producers Dave Grusin, Larry Rosen, Lenny White and Wright himself, this album explores several subgenres of music. Being as gifted as he is, Wright obviously did not want to limit himself by recording just one style of music. With the popularity of breakdancing and the rise of video arcades, Wright's pioneering vision is witnessed on "Funky Beat" and "Video Generation." The former made the Billboard R&B charts, peaking at #39, but the latter was never a release. These compositions are not breathtaking recordings, but do offer a alternative to the routine rhythms normally used; they verge on pre-techno. Wright slows it down with a more contemporary sound on "Keep on Doing That Right Thing" and "Won't You Let Me Love You." The latter is a skillfully written, highly underrated song that made the Billboard R&B charts at number 88 after only a two-week run. Wright further displays his versatility on a remake of the Clifford Brown jazz classic "Joy Spring," a melodious, soft and easy jazz composition that features Lenny White on drums. However, no selection is more noteworthy than "Mr. Clean," a funky, jazzy, souful instrumental driven by improvised keyboard solos and a pulsating, electric bass.

All I can say is that Wright had a sleeper with this track and I recorded it directly from her old album....chicken grease and all. Last, if you listen to the previous mix, April Showers, you will hear a sped up version of the track. Thanks Yolanda!!!

J-Finesse

Jane Child ...The One Hit Wonder!!!

2008-02-03T21:35:00.001-08:00

Thank the Lord for VH1, with the exception of I Luv New York. Anyways, just recently there was a show on one hit wonders and the mc brought up a song that I totally forgot about, but was happy to hear it again. The song was "Don't Wanna Fall In Love" by Jane Child. (circa '90)

Born into a musical family in Toronto, Jane Child took violin lessons from her father and voice lessons from her mother. Rock wasn't allowed in her home, but she did listen to an R&B station from nearby Buffalo, NY, and had hopes of starting a band. Child dropped out of the Royal Conservatory of Music to join a rock band in Toronto. Signed to Warner Music in 1988 on the strength of just a demo tape, Jane Child released her first single, "Don't Wanna Fall in Love," in 1990. Her self-titled debut album appeared that same year and Here and There followed in 1993.

Boy, I can remember the djs playing this on the radio stations (Q106 & WFMF 102.5) in Baton Rouge. This version attached is a remix that was produced by none other than, Teddy Riley.

Enjoy!!!!

J-Finesse

April Showers '05

2008-02-03T17:16:00.000-08:00

Let's start this puppy off right. Here is a mix that I found in my catalog that was misplaced. Luckily, I found it. It represents me branching out to incorporate more types of music in my mixes. What you will find is a diverse mix of music....

Enjoy

J-Finesse

Now is the Time!!!!

2008-02-03T15:34:00.000-08:00

I had an epiphany a couple of months ago and said to myself that I was going to take my talent and skills to the next level. I really couldn't believe that it was now 20 years since I first started djing. For a moment, I thought back on all of the parties and schindigs that were powered by me and how many people's lives I affected through my music. I began to think about regrets with not following my true passion instead of going the safe route. All in all, I came to the conclusion that I was going to go all out and explore all opportunities and possibilities. The result was a newfound attitude about music and life. SO, here I am now, the beginning of a new beginning for J-Finesse. I decided to invest in studio equipment and finally categorize the 3000+ records that I own. I am now djing more at lounges and have been compiling a catalog of beats. On any given weekend, you can find me in the neighborhood record store shopping for more rare gems....as I like to call them. Overall, I am happy with the progress and look forward to what the future holds.

J-Fin