“See Me Now” should have been a monster of a track. Kanye West & Beyonce on an original track together? But sadly, it failed all my expectations. So naturally I was a little apprehensive to check out the latest leak “Monster” featuring Rick Ross, Jay-Z, Nicki Minaj and Bon Iver. But, maybe Jay has one on Beyonce, because this track goes in. Set to be featured on Kanye West and Jay-Z’s upcoming collaborative EP “Watch The Throne” that will consist of 5 tracks.
Each year on the anniversary of the untimely death of R&B’s angel, Aaliyah, I sit back and recount all my favorite moments, songs and videos she graced us with. Even though it’s now a year shy of a decade since she was taken, I won’t go into too much detail about how amazing her artistry was (click here for last year’s post) but I thought it would be fitting to introduce a new series of post here on MESH. with her.
Every so often, I will feature “In No Particular Order”–the top five songs (in my opinion) of various artists. I feel there is no one better to start this off with than Aaliyah. Now keep in mind, most artists’ best material isn’t their released singles but yet the hidden or slightly buried gems on their albums. So as the title mentions, in no particular order, here are the top five Aaliyah tracks.
1. “Never Comin’ Back”–One In a Million
This smooth track might not come to mind when you mention Aaliyah’s name. Lifted from her sophomore album, the “live recording” inspired track is one of Aaliyah’s strongest and has an undeniable groove. The horns compliment her silky voice and effortless falsettos.
2. “It’s Whatever”–Aaliyah
Perhaps my favorite Aaliyah song, “It’s Whatever” is a sophisticated track that shows Aaliyah’s maturity, musical growth, and ability to create relative music. A song that proudly states it’s whatever because love is so strong, everything about the track works. The smooth instrumental, sensual melodies and familiar vibe all come together effortlessly on this standout from her last album.
3. “I Care 4 U”–Aaliyah
Much like “It’s Whatever” this track from Aaliyah’s last masterpiece also showcased a mature woman, confident in herself and her feelings of the world and others. “I Care 4 U” is infectious, with a nearly climatic build-up towards the end, it is vocally one of Aaliyah’s strongest efforts.
4. “Are You That Somebody”/ “One in a Million”–Dr. Doolittle Soundtrack/ One In a Million
I know what you’re thinking–hey, he’s cheating with this one. I couldn’t decide between which track ultimately is associated with Aaliyah’s name. You think of both when she is mentioned. “One in a Million” is the song credited for redefining R&B as Aaliyah’s angelic vocals were oddly matched with a gritty Timbaland beat. The magic was reproduced with her mega hit “Are You That Somebody” that solidified Aaliyah as an R&B staple. Plus, who could forget that video?
5. “At Your Best (You Are Loved)–Age Ain’t Nothing but a Number
This remake of the classic Isley Brothers tune was lifted from Aaliyah’s debut album. It’s funny to imagine such a soft–falsetto driven ballad amongst the track listing of much grittier material. “At Your Best” was the stage for Aaliyah’s vocal ability. Much like the original, this track and its remix remain as classics to this day.
Honorable Mentions: “Come Over” “4 Page Letter” “I Refuse” “If Ur Girl Only Knew”
I must admit, as an Aaliyah fan, this was incredibly hard to do. I know a lot of you are probably scratching your head at the list, but read the reasons why and give the tracks a listen. Aaliyah was a unique and raw talent. It’s hard to imagine what the industry would look like if she were still with us. Some debate she would have remain amongst the likes of present day Monica or Brandy, while others saw the maturity in her last album as an indicator that Aaliyah’s potential was sadly never reached. Either way, her beauty and elegance are always adored, cherished, and missed. R.I.P Babygirl.
It’s no denying, this is about to be a big year for Kanye West and the entire G.O.O.D. crew. One pit stop on the way to taking over the music industry this year, is the release of the G.O.O.D Ass Mixtape that proudly boasts 30 tracks from the likes of Kanye, Big Sean, Common, Kid Cudi, Consequence, Mr. Hudson, Amber Rose and more. It has that end of summer vibe and since it is the end of summer, well damn it–go vibe.
**Download the mixtape by pressing the downward arrow on the player
My manB[dot]Jay has produced some heat for Mac Miller of Rostrum Records. The latest track Good Evening, off of Mac’s upcoming mixtape K.I.D.S. is solid. Miller has a nice flow and I’m banking dudes got a solid future, especially backed by Wiz’ label. But i’m moreso impressed with my man B[dot] . If you remember, I reviewed his mixtape DiamondsDunks&Backpackz a while back and it was apparent he had talent. I almost feel like the faraway watchful eye over kid, becuase I really feel like he’s going somewhere.
Featuring a sample of Drake and Lloyd’s “A Night Off” from So Far Gone, Good Evening is upbeat, infectious, and dope. Give it a listen and download below.
K.I.D.S. by Mac Miller [homie who couldn't take the bong hit in the Kid Frankie video lol] is set to drop August 13th . We’ll be on it.
It’s always great seeing art bring real, spontaneous emotion. Janelle is a true artist doing things her way and staying true to herself, and though it’s a slow burn she’s really gaining a lot of industry respect and success in doing so. If you haven’t already, make sure you give her latest album The Archandroid a listen; definitely one of the best R&B albums of the year thus far.
Below is the music video for “Cold War,” one of my favorite tracks off the album. Real simple. Real powerful. Enjoy.
I’m trying to find my peace
I was made to believe there’s something wrong with me
And it hurts my heart
Lord have mercy, ain’t it plain to see?
I bang with Theophilus London more and more as each day passes. His latest leak “Calypso Blues” (a remake of Nat King Cole’s) is beyond words. It’s easily has become my jam of the week. Okay enough talking, listen, download and replay.
“California Girls” has been number one of the Top 100 for decades now. I think it’s safe to say, Katy Perry is going to murk with her new album Teenage Dreams. Check her out on the cover of Rolling Stone.
Also, give her latest leak “Not Like the Movies” a listen.
I’m rooting for Teairra Mari. Ever since she was played by Jay-Z and Rihanna, I’ve wanted her to get the shine she deserves and the less talented stole. Her severely delayed sophomore effort is being revamped. Her latest single to leak is another urban club banger, which she has become great at delivering. This one is called “Coins” and confidently boast about–what else, materialism. It low-key goes in, so I hope it does something for Teairra’s project.
(Click the downward arrow on the player to download)
Big fan of Nipsey. Huge fan of Cali music [The Chronic stays on repeat] and he’s about as Cali as it gets right now. One of XXL Freshman 10 hottest new MC’s, Hussle’s gearing up for his debut album and is kicking things off with the track “Feelin’ Myself” featuring Lloyd [which is heat]. Below is some preview footage of the video being shot in the area where he grew up in South Central Los Angeles.
Nipsey’s first album South Central State of Mindwill be releasing later this year. Take a listen and download the Feelin Myself single below.
Hopefully this makes this Sunday a great one for a lot of you MESH people out there. Lauryn hinted that she could be releasing some new material earlier this year. Of course we all hoped, but no one in the blogosphere got too excited because we all know Lauryn is… well, Lauryn.
But, out of no where, HHnM popped a new joint from our favorite Mis-educated miss today, and it has people wondering.. The track is a nice. Classic L-Boogie; very smooth. Hopefully this means what we hope it does..
Listen and download Repercussions below [click the downward arrow on the left to download]
William “Rick Ross” Roberts is the most polarizing and interesting man in rap right now.
The same colossal ball of baritone who not too long ago seemed exiled to the most doomed of rap’s realms – that of lost credibility – has proven that good music does in fact trump all.
With his fourth album, Teflon Don, Ross has created a poignant eleven-track escapade doused as much in bombastic beats and bravado as it is in thought provoking, focused storytelling.
Enlisting a slew of heavy-hitting guest appearances (Jay Z, Kanye West, T.I, and Erykah Badu are just some of music’s elite featured), Grammy-worthy production from producers The J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League, No I.D., Lex Lugar, and the Olympicks (to name a few) Ross has served a magnum opus, worthy of the hype.
Teflon Don, no doubt a reference to Robert’s ability to dodge credibility issues (Ross entered shaky ground when two years ago, despite his insistance on his drug-trafficking past, a Smoking Gun photo showed him in a Miami-Dade county correctional officer’s uniform).
The real treasure of Teflon Don is its cohesiveness. The features, though aplenty are expertly placed and Ross holds his own with the game’s best. On what is probably the best song on the album, Ross stands fearlessly toe-to-toe with Hov on Free Mason. Another gem, the Bobby Seale introduced Tears of Joy, sees Ross poignantly telling of the dual side of fame and it’s trappings (I wanna walk in the image of Christ/but damn that bitch Vivica nice) as Cee-Lo croons a painfully palpable “I ask when someone wants to be me, why?/ My God, I’m scarred…”
Live Fast and Die Young with West drips of a self-destructive braggadocio that brings out the best in both artists, creating a rarity –a hip hop song that not only tells a story, but is sure to set the dancefloor ablaze.
The album then takes a change of pace with the airy No. 1, a jam though well intentioned, is an ultimate train wreck. Ross loses the depth of the album’s first half and dabbles in the forgettable. That is until the two biggest songs of the summer, MC Hammer and B.M.F. (Blowin’ Money Fast). Despite a ridiculous Gucci Mane verse, the songs that have sparked more ad libs (I think I’m Big Meech! Larry Hoover!) than any other in recent memory, are unforgettable and necessary.
Chrisette Michele provides the album’s biggest surprise as she enchants on the smooth Aston Martin Music with new rap superstar Drake. It is however, the album’s last great song as All the Money In The World, with Raphael Saadiq is another well-intentioned song lacking little punch.
Since his 2006 Port of Miami debut, Rick Ross has continuously improved as an MC. He’s constantly getting better, and he knows it. He’s the man of the hour, and he knows it. He speaks, and we listen intently; and he knows it. Teflon Don is a exceedlingly solid album signaling Ross’ ascension to rap’s big leagues. Is it this year’s best? Not quite. Most intriguing? Most definitely.
Yesterday Fat Sax dropped by Hip Hop Nation in NY, and dropped a lil shumn shumn over “Renegade.”
Not the best at first but it get’s better. Just figured this was a good post for those who, you know, courtesy of lying rappers forgotten what an actual freestyle [insert: off the top] sounds like. No blackberry’s here. #noshadeDrizzy lol.
Clearly you know where this vid came from. #clapforem
Nah it ain’t wednesday, but I figure why not hit ym peoples up with just a few tracks to tide them over until I get to that Teflon Don Review.. [shoutout to Howard U and all it's A-Bldg fuckery for pushing me waaay off schedule]
But I digress.
We got a lil bit of everything here; some club hits, good hip hop, and some in-between. Per usual, I don’t post what I dont think you won’t like. So go ahead and give all these tracks a spin.
[Click the downward arrows to the right of the audioplayer box to download.]
Paris Morton Music
You know Drizzy always making sappy songs to hoes he wanna fuckbe with. Hey, long as it keeps him baggin the bad ones, and as long as they sound as dope as this… I ain’t gotta problem with it. Heat.
Yung Joc – Yea Boy
This is just for you to add to your pregame mix. Club hit.. not much else.
Cali Swag District f. JD, Bow Wow, B.O.B., Red Cafe – Teach Me How To Dougie Remix
Anyone else think it’s crazy that CSD made this remix, invited the whole world, but skipped Texas artists all together? Texas or not, this shit goes. Gone head and sway..
Jizzle – Jeezy f. Lil Jon
Mr. Stamp-in-the-middle describes this joint as “who dat” on steroids. I describe it as classic jeezy. 103!
P.S.A. (Pussy So Amazing) – Freddie Gibbs
One of the two songs you probably didn’t already have or haven’t yet heard. Gibbs is one of XXL’s Freshman 10 Hot New Artists. The Gary, Indiana native is skrate hood and keeps it gutta right here with an ode to that sweet ushy-gushy. Eat it up.
Kingpen Slim f. Wale, STS, Phil Adé
Let me find out the urrrea ready to take it past Wale. Nah, jk. Heat’s been coming out of my stomping grounds (yea thats right I can claim it now damnit–3 years in!!). Phil Adé goes off and Wale’s just a big ball of mambo-sauce-filled awesomenes. Beat ya feet and download.
Mr. Steal Your Girl [his words, not mine] just released the first single off his upcoming album Passion, Pain & Pleasure set to drop September 14, 2010.
Bottom’s Up feat. Nicki Minaj.
It’s getting really hard to give a prediction on an album off the first single. Sometimes they’re spot on and are a preview of what’s to come, good or bad, and sometimes they’re one of the few good or bad singles on an album.
With that being said, this doesn’t seem like anything spectacular. Yet another pairing of two forces that produce nothing special (whatap Dre, Jay) . Nicki’s verse is.. well, you’ll see lol.
Final verdict: basic.
I’ve heard it before Trey. We’ve all heard it before. If you’re going to retread old waters for a new album (the club-jam ode to liquor), atleast make the newer joint better than your old one (“Say Ahh”).
The album can only get better from here. I don’t think this is a real glimpse into PPP. For Trey’s sake I hope it’s not.. cuz then it’ll be your career, not that bottle of Patrón going bottoms up, homie.
Tomorrow (7/13) strikes the U.S. release of M.I.A’s third studio album /\/\ /\ Y /\ (MAYA). It seems that critics are having incredibly mixed opinions on the UK-born Sri Lankan songstress who has dwelled in creating music both entertaining and controversial latest offering. Though less political at the surface, MAYA titled off her first name is in many ways is more organic than previous M.I.A. efforts. With a new son and husband, the disc offers an almost battle of old M.I.A (loud, political, controversial) and a newer M.I.A (pop star, mother, lover). The result is an album that at its core, makes you vibe, dance, and more importantly–think.
Opening with “The Message” a short introduction that cleverly boast “….the head bones connects to the neck bone, neck bone connects to the arm bone, arm bones connects to the hand bone, connects to the internet connects to the google connects to the government.” Intricate and fun tracks “Stepping Up” “XXO” and “Teqkilla” follow. One of the albums highlights “Lovalot” is simplistic and complicated all in one breathe–inspired by the story of a suicide bomber avenging the death of her husband. Other highlights like the raggae inspired “It Takes a Muscle” and the chill vibes of “It Iz What It Iz” establish the album’s overall softer vibe. After the album’s lead single “Born Free”, the disc proceeds with a heavy mix of uptempo tracks like “Internet Connection” and “Believer” and beautifully trance like moments such as “Space” “Tell Me Why” and “Caps Lock”. Although many clam her music to sometimes be cluttered with sounds, chants, machines and more, the intricacies of an M.I.A. track is what sets her music apart from others. If your a fan of M.I.A.’s previous works like songs “Sun Showers” and “Bucky Done Gun” then this album will work for you. MAYA is a great companion her previous albums Kala and Arular and I’m sure I will be listening to its tracks for years to come.
Verdict: MAYA offers a new vision of an artist while holding on to the key elements that made that artist in the first place. A solid effort.
…I always felt a connection. Cause I felt like we came from a similar place, and we payed so many dues. And you know, we all had ups and downs in our lives and shit. And now… this is the highest caliber you can get to. You know what it is! …and it didn’t happen over night. This 14, 15, 20 years in the making. - Kanye West on his collaboration with Rick Ross
Rick Ross owns the summer.
Download Live Fast, Die Young by Rick Ross feat. Kanye West HERE
First. A new promotional single leaked from the anticipated M.I.A./\/\ /\ Y /\ album. The track is called “Teqkilla” and like any other M.I.A., it goes in. Like I’ve said before, I’ve previewed the album and it sounds like it will be a definite winner releasing July 13th.
Second. A track from Outkast’s Big Boi who is gearing to release his solo album Sir Lucious Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dust. “Tangerine” features T.I. and is a solid track. I like it much better than he current single (maybe I’ll give his album a try after all).
2009 Black Weblog Awards BEST GROUP BLOG Winner!!!!!
We are delighted in the support you guys have given us and hope you continue to support us as we look to take the MESH LIFE to a whole new plateau of success. We look forward to accomplishing great things with you. Thanks again!
Copyright
If anything we post on this site infringes upon your material, contact us and we will gladly remove it. Everything we post is for promotional purposes only.
Aaron
