Rihanna Who? Beyonce Inks $50 Million Deal With Pepsi

If Beyonce hasn't proven that she's Queen by now, she just solidified her place on the throne by inking a $50 million deal with Pepsi...

VIDEO: Emelie Sandé - "Clown"

British singing sensation, Emeli Sandé dropped a new video today, "Clown" from her top selling debut album, Our Version of Events. Despite the recent Grammy snub, she continues doing what she does best which is putting out great music. See the video after the break!

THROWBACK: Pebbles "Giving You The Benefit" [VIDEO]

Today's throwback video features eighties/nineties artist, Pebbles. "Giving You The Benefit" was a number-one single from her second album, Always in 1990. It is, to date, one of the biggest singles of her career. 

New Music: Tamar Braxton "Love and War" [AUDIO]

Don't call her diva Toni Braxton's little sister or music mogul, Vincent Herbert's wife. Tamar Braxton is proving that she's a star in her own right.  Newly signed to Interscope Records,  "Love and War" is the lead single from her undated upcoming album release and has been all the buzz on Twitter today.

The beginning of the song does have a classic Toni Braxton vibe, but homegirl makes this song all her own. Her success as the reality star of WEtv's  Braxton Family Values and Tamar & Vince has given her a whole new audience of fans who were unfamiliar with her previously. Looking forward to hearing new music from Tamar!

See Also: New Heat: Toni Braxton "I Heart You" Video

55th Grammy Award Nominations--Luke James, SWV, and Tamia Get Nods!

For those of you that did not get a chance to tune into the 55th Grammy Awards nominations show last night, below is the list of the R&B categories. The show was held in Nashville, TN last night and featured an array of performers while hosted by rapper/actor LL Cool J and country star, Taylor Swift.  For the complete list of nominees, go here.

Best R&B Performance
Thank You - Estelle
Gonna Be Alright (f.t.b.) - Robert Glasper Experiment featuring Ledisi
I Want You - Luke James
Adorn - Miguel
Climax - Usher

Best Traditional R&B Performance
Lately - Anita Baker
Love On Top - Beyoncé
Wrong Side Of A Love Song - Melanie Fiona
Real Good Hands - Gregory Porter
If Only You Knew - SWV

Best R&B Song
Adorn - Miguel Pimentel, songwriter (Miguel)
Beautiful Surprise - Tamia Hill, Claude Kelly & Salaam Remi, songwriters (Tamia)
Heart Attack - Benjamin Levin, Rico Love & Tremaine Neverson, songwriters (Trey Songz)
Pray For Me - Antonio Dixon, Kenny Edmonds, Anthony Hamilton & Patrick "jque" Smith, songwriters (Anthony Hamilton)
Refill - Darhyl "dj" Camper, Elle Varner & Andrew "pop" Wansel, songwriters (Elle Varner)

Best Urban Contemporary Album
Fortune - Chris Brown
Kaleidoscope Dream - Miguel
Channel Orange - Frank Ocean

Best R&B Album
Black Radio - Robert Glasper Experiment
Back To Love - Anthony Hamilton
Write Me Back - R. Kelly
Beautiful Surprise - Tamia
Open Invitation - Tyrese

Song of the Day: Freddie Jackson "At Christmas"

Keeping up with the Christmas theme, I decided to post another holiday favorite. I abolutely love "At Christmas" by 80s R&B singer, Freddie Jackson. He sings of giving, sharing, and family--what the holidays are all about during Christmas.

This song was featured on This Christmas with Freddie Jackson in 1998. If you don't have this album in your collection, go out and cop it now. Enjoy!

Flashback: Anita Baker Performs "Frosty's Ray (Frosty The Snowman)" on Tony Danza Show

Only the illustrious Anita Baker could take a simple traditional song like "Frosty's Rag (Frosty the Snowman)" and sang the song like she's on Broadway. From the scats to the riffs, she knows how to make a song her own! She visited the Tony Danza Show to promote her 2005 Christmas release, Christmas Fantasy.

I forgot Tony even had a show. I used to have a crush on him when he starred in Who's The Boss? (and yes, I had a lot of childhood crushes. Clearly, he was enamoured by Ms. Baker because he was just grinnin' and skinnin' after she finished singing, lol. If you don't have Christmas Fantasy in your holiday music collection, you are definitely missing out!

VIDEO: Boyz II Men "Let It Snow"

This Christmas classic needs no introduction. The lead track from Boyz II Men's 1993 holiday album, Christmas Interpretations, "Let It Snow" is a classic that can be heard everywhere during this time of year. The song features then Motown label-mate, Brian McKnight, as well.

I was about five or six when this album came out. As one of my favorite R&B male groups of all time, I love hearing their harmonious voices singing Christmas classics and a few then-unknown, but now classics of their own. Most of which, were written by Boyz II Men and Brian McKnight. The whole album can be played from start to finish, but some of my favorites are "Let It Snow", "You're Not Alone", "Cold, December Nights", "Why Christmas" and "Who Would've Thought?"

Thanks R&B Haven for the video!

New Music: Alicia Keys ft/ Maxwell "Fire We Make"

"Fire We Make" is from Alicia Keys fifth studio album, Girl On Fire. Collectively, the album is a good listen. However, as soon as I pressed play on #7, I could tell this one was going to be on repeat! Alicia went back to her cornrow rocking days in the studio, because her and Maxwell did the damn thing with this song right here!  As soon as I saw Maxwell's name while listening to Girl on Fire, I thought, "Awwww shiet!"

Eric Benet & Faith Evans "Christmas Without You"

There's nothing I love more than Soul/R&B Christmas music, and two of my favorite singers, Eric Benet and Faith Evans did not fail to disappoint. The mid-tempo "Christmas Without You" talks about being without the one you love on Christmas. Take a listen and leave a comment on what you think.

Song of the Day: The Jackson 5 "Give Love On Christmas Day"

Originally recorded by The Jackson 5, this holiday classic from their Christmas album is a favorite that can be heard on radios and in stores everywhere during this time of the year. This song has been covered by The Temptations, New Edition, and Johnny Gill. Even though I love their versions too, nothing ever compares to the original.

Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin and more Inducted into R&B Hall of Fame

The official opening of the R&B Hall of Fame Museum was announced last week. They plan to honor artists, producers, and others who have contributed to the genre's success. The legendary Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston and Aretha Franklin are among the 23 inductees for the Class of 2013. Check out who else made the list after the break!

New Artist Shine: Alexis Nicole "Wait For Me"

Although I am an old-school Soul/R&B junkie/enthusiast, I do on occasion like to give newer R&B artists shine. Alexis Nicole is an artist that I found out about through Twitter. Her latest single, "Wait For Me" was all the buzz, so I decided to take a listen and was pleasantly surprised. Produced by Trei Sly, this song "can be the soundtrack of many love stories. Sometimes, you may have to wait on the one you want until they can actually be that for you.his song," according to Alexis. Check it out for yourself below.

I liked the song on first listen, although I think her smooth, smoky vocals are too heavy for this record. However, the production intertwines nicely with her voice to make this an easy listen. After listening to this song, I went to her website to find more of her music. I really liked her previous singles, "Cold World" and "Love's A Game". They really showcase her vocal range and ability a lot more in my opinion. She has a great look and sound and I look forward to hearing more from  her.

What do you think of "Wait For Me"? Leave a comment and follow Alexis Nicole on Twitter!

R&B Group Silk Returns With New Single "Home For Christmas"

If you're a big fan of Soul/R&B Christmas music like I am, then you'll be delighted to know that 90s R&B group, Silk, has released their new single "Home For Christmas" just in time for the holidays! Check out the preview after the break.

Emelie Sande Announces 2013 U.S. Tour Dates!

The U.S. tour dates for U.K. singing sensation Emelie Sande were announced this week and I couldn't be more excited. After selling over 600,000 copies of her debut album, Our Version of Events, she is one of the biggest selling stars this years overseas. However, her star has not shone as brightly over here in the United States. But that's all going to change when she tours the States next year. See what cities she's going to be visiting after the break!

THROWBACK: Dru Hill "These Are The Times" [VIDEO]

I was a middle schooler, in 1998, when this throwback jam came out. I was a HUGE fan of Dru Hill, although at first I thought they were a wannabe Jodeci when they hit the scene. However, they won me over with their first album and I was a die-hard fan by the second one!

I really liked this video because of the whole Man In The Iron Mask concept taken from the book and movie that starred Leonardo Di Caprio during that time. I also loved it that Lark Voorhies, from one of my all-time favorite shows, Saved By The Bell, was the heroine. It was interesting, yet classy, and complemented the song well.

Most memorable line: "Tear you up in little pieces/Swallow you like Reese's Pieces/C'mon, girl you know I need you!"

Song of the Day: Hi-Five "I Like The Way (Kissing Game)

I absolutely LOVED this song growing up! Produced by super-producer Teddy Riley, this song from their self-titled debut album went #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B charts. Other marginal hits from them included She's Playing Hard To Get, Can't Wait Another Minute and Just Can't Handle It.

I was saddened to read about the death of lead singer, Tony Thompson, 2007. I had a little crush on him as a kid much like other little girls. The sweet innocence of this song reminds me of a time when R&B singers could sing about love and relationships without everything being so vulgar and crass. It also reminds me of a time when R&B male groups were in full effect—Troop, Boyz II Men, Shai, New Edition, ABC, Tony Toni Tone!, H-Town, and more. Though their success was short lived, I Like The Way (The Kissing Game)still gets airplay and is always rocking on my playlist. Enjoy!

Brandy Visits The Breakfast Club and Talks New 'Two-Eleven' Album

Brandy "B-Rocka" Norwood visited The Breakfast Club at Power 105.1 to promote her new album, Two Eleven, which hits stores and iTunes tomorrow. The album has been hailed as her comeback album and features production from Rico Love, Warryn Campbell, Mario Winans, Bangladesh and more!  Released through RCA Records and Chameleon Entertainment, the 14-track album features the Chris Brown collab "Put It Down", "Let It Go", "No Such Thing As Too Late" and my favorite, "Wildest Dreams." Watch the video after the break!

THROWBACK: Keke Wyatt: "Put Your Hands On Me" [VIDEO]

If you watch the show R&B Divas on TVOne, then you've seen R&B singer, Keke Wyatt, share her story concerning her previous marriage to her abusive ex-husband. She has been famously known for stabbing her ex-husband in self-defense during a domestic dispute. (The charges were later dropped.)
Since then, Keke has been trying to repair her image and rebuild her career. She is also a spokesperson for the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV).

I had never seen this video for before a few days ago. I like how Keke didn't let what happened to her, break her. Instead, she turned it into her testimony. I'm not sure why this video did not get as much promotion as it should have, but I am glad that she used her situation as a way to help other women. On the show, you can definitely see growth in her as an artist and as a woman who has been through trauma and difficulties. You can hear more from her and the other divas on Faith Evans' new release, R&B Divas.

SONG OF THE DAY: Glover Washington, Jr. & Bill Withers "Just The Two of Us"

It's no secret that I'm an old school music head. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, old school R&B music. "Just The Two of Us" is one of my absolute favorite songs. It's a soul and jazz classic and what you call timeless music.  Sung and co-written by Bill Withers, the song originally appeared on saxophonist Grover Washington, Jr.'s 1981 album, Winelight, the song went on to win a Grammy for Best R&B Song. "Just The Two of Us" has also been covered and sampled by artists like Regina Belle and Will Smith. Enjoy!

New Music: Vivian Green "When Can I See You Again"

Vivian Green released her new single from her new album,Green Room, which hit stores today. On "When Can I See You Again", the "Emotional Rollercoaster" singer sings about the woes of having a long distance relationship and wanting to be with her man. I actually think this is a great record for her. I can relate because I've been there before myself. It didn't work out, but that's for another day.

I really hope Vivian does well album sales-wise. Honestly, this album flew under the radar for me because there was absolutely no buzz or anticipation for it. That "Still Here" song didn't really grab my attention like this one does. But that's just my opinion. What do you think about it?

Listen to Vivian Green's Green Room in its entirety here. Go out and buy a copy or two. Support R&B!

New Heat: Brandy "No Such Thing As Too Late" [AUDIO]

Brandy is really putting in work with this upcoming album! From live performances to radio shows, I haven't seen this much excitement and anticipation for her since the early 00s. Her single, "Put It Down" featuring Chris Brown is now a Top Ten hit (her first in over ten years) which is a good look for her. Her new album, Two-Eleven, will be released on October 16th on Chameleon/RCA records.

I was really feeling that "Wildest Dreams record" and I like this one as well. I really want Brandy to win. I just hope she doesn't stop promoting her album the way Monica did with hers. (Yeah, I almost forgot she released an album this year also). Speaking of Monica, I did notice that "It All Belongs To Me" is not on the tracklist for Two-Eleven. Interesting.

Anyway, what do you think of the song? Hot or not?

Song of The Day: Emelie Sande "My Kind of Love"

I love, love, love this girl! Hailing from the U.K., this young woman is taking the charts by storm! Having already sold over 600, 000 copies (only second behind Adele in 2012 U.K. sales) of her debut album, Our Version of Events, she was also the voice of the recent 2012 Summer Olympics. Even Adele has sang her praises. Although, she is a top artist/songwriter over in the U.K., she has yet to sore to the top of the U.S. charts. However, I feel that's only a matter of time.

"My Kind of Love" is my absolute favorite song of hers. From the opening piano intro until her last soulful note, this song right here was an instant hit for me.  In an era of bubblegum music and artists who are use gimmicks to become and remain relevant, I found hope in Emelie Sande. If you haven't checked out Our Version of Events you must not be a fan of real music. The album is dope from beginning to end. Check out the song and video below.

VIDEO: Karyn White "Unbreakable"

R&B singer Karyn White sings about being "Unbreakable" in her latest video. This video was released in July, so I'm somewhat late. However, I'm glad to see her still doing her thang after all these years. She still looks and sounds great! If you haven't copped her new album, Carpe Diem, you're missing out!

VIDEO: It's Official! Tyrese, Ginuwine & Tank form Supergroup 'TGT'

There have been rumors and talks for years of R&B singers Tyrese, Ginuwine and Tank combining their talents and forming a supergroup. Unofficially started in 2007, the group was all talk until the re-announcement at the 2012 BET Awards this past summer. Although individually successful with millions of albums sold between them, the trio recently signed a deal with Atlantic Records and they are now performing as TGT. With influences like the O'Jays and LSG (Gerald Levert, Keith Sweat and Johnny Gill), these singers, who have nicknamed themselves the "R&B Avengers" plan to take R&B back to what it used to be. Check out the video of their official signing after the break...

Avant & Keke Wyatt Put the Love Back in R&B with "You & I"

Now THIS is what I am talking about!!! We haven't really heard any R&B duets like this since the early 00s and who other to bring it back than Avant and Keke Wyatt? With R&B hits like "Nothing In This World" and their beautiful cover of Rene & Angela's "My First Love", the duo have team up again with this beautiful release.

You can now catch Keke on the TvOne's R&B Divas along with Faith Evans, Nicci Gilbert (lead singer from Brownstone), Monifah and Syleena Johnson. Avant reportedly is releasing a new album next year in 2013. If this single is any indication of what his new album will sound like, I can't wait! Feels good hearing singers singing about love again. Just what the R&B game has been missing.

What do you think of "You and I"?

New Album Releases: Faith Evans "R&B Divas" and Miguel's "Kaleidoscope Dreams"

Veteran R&B singer Faith Evans and the seemingly overnight new R&B sensation, Miguel both have new albums in stores today.  The success of the hit TVOne reality series, R&B Divas, coincides the release of Faith's new album with the same name, featuring her co-stars Monifah, Syleena Johnson, Keke Wyatt, and Nicci Gilbert along with Kelly Price, Fantasia, and Gilbert's mom, Helene "Mom" Gilbert. The proceeds from the album will benefit a charity in honor of Evans' close friend and mentor, the late Whitney Houston. The show follows the lives of the singers' lives and shows how they deal with balancing life, family, and reviving their careers. Although I wasn't too crazy about that "Dumb" single that Faith recently released, I love that "Tears of Joy" record. Faith hasn't released an album since 2010 and it's great to hear from some of my favorite R&B female artists. Excited to see how well this project does. I'm sure Whitney would be proud.

I didn't want to like the "Adorn" song. Perhaps because people were hyping it before I had a chance to listen to it. You know how can wear out a song before it's even marinated yet. But gradually my reluctant foot tapping changed to me singing along with Miguel at the top of my lungs while getting ready for work. (Don't act like I'm the only one!) Since his 2010 debut album, All I Want Is You, he has released music steadily online before his smash breakout #1 single, "Adorn "off new sophomore release, Kaleidoscope Dream, that drops today. I gave the album a listen yesterday, and I give it two thumbs up! Most artists have a hard time outdoing their debut albums and getting over their sophomore slump, but I think Miguel can only go higher from this point in his career. Definitely the most deserving, highly anticipated album of the year.

I love what R&B artists are doing right now.  Now go out and support both artists!

Song of the Day: Kevon Edmonds "24/7"

OMG...do you remember this song??? I was in 8th grade when this song was released in 1999 and I LOVED it immediately. It had been a while since Kevon Edmonds had been on the scene since his After 7 days and he came in with a bang. I remember trying listening to this song on the radio and would stop everything I was doing and sing along, thinking about the special love I'd have in my life someday. Also that was during the days when the BOX (remember that)? was still around lol.

He followed up this single with "No Love" and didn't release any more music until perhaps a couple of years ago, which failed to make an impact in this age of bubblegum music. He is still one of my favorite male singers and I hope to hear new music from him soon. This song will forever hold sweet memories for me. Enjoy!

Been So Long...

Hello everyone! It's been a few months since I've posted anything. There were some personal matters that I had going on and just wasn't feeling it.  It got to the point where I wasn't writing anything. I also got away from my reason for starting this blog in the first place. Originally, I started it to celebrate old school R&B artists and their music. R&B (not Hip Hop & R&B) is not a celebrated genre of music anymore. Heck, even the Billboard charts hardly recognize pure R&B anymore. I missed those songs that made you feel good and evoked all sorts of emotions like love and happiness--that "Awwww yeah!" feeling that you get when you're favorite oldie came on. I began focusing more on keeping up with the latest news and what other sites were posting than what I really wanted to focus on--the music.

Breaking News: RIP Donna Summer (1948-2012)

It has been sadly reported this morning that 70s & 80s Disco Legend and Queen, Donna Summer, lost the battle of cancer and died at the age of 63. This is a developing story so more details are to come...

Maxwell Announces 6-Day Summer Tour--Will Perform ALL Albums

Singer Maxwell has announced a six-day concert tour this summer where he will perform ALL of his albums in their entirety during the show...

SWV Performs on Wendy Williams + Taj Addresses Divorce Rumors [VIDEO]

I actually got a chance to catch Wendy Williams' show today and was surprised that the R&B trio SWV would be performing. To further promote their anticipated album, I Missed Us, which drops today in stores, the ladies performed their lead single, "Co-Sign" along with their classic hit "Anything" by request of Wendy.

Y'all already know how messy Wendy is so she asked the elephant in the room question of Taj concerning the status of her marriage to ex-NFL player Eddie George. (Click here if you missed that drama) I caught that "Oh, sh-t" look that Coco had on her face lol, but Taj answered professionally by saying, "I'm so glad you asked that question. I am happy to say that we are very happily married." Watch a clip of their performance after the break.

Throwback: Rare Clip of Brandy Singing Anita Baker's "You Bring Me Joy" [VIDEO]

I found a rare clip of a young Brandy singing Anita Baker's "You Bring Me Joy" on the short-lived sitcom Thea, which aired on ABC. Even though she only sings for .20 seconds, you can hear her raw talent. Check it out after the break!

SWV "I Missed Us" Album Preview [AUDIO]

Sorry for the delay folks. Been taking care of some personal things. But anyway, I'm back and with some new heat! The Sisters With Voices (SWV) are gearing up for the release of their highly anticipated album, I Missed Us, to be released April 17th. Listen to the preview below.





After a first listen, I like what I hear. It sounds like a mixture of the old school with the new school which works well for them. You know I'm an old school R&B junkie, so I immediately caught the Chaka and Patti sample/cover mixed up in there. The gorgeous trio sound like they never took a hiatus! I wish them well on their new album.

If you haven't seen the video to their latest video "Co-Sign", check it out here and for the complete tracklisting of the album, go here. I could've posted them here, but I'm just too lazy right now.

Are you copping SWV's new album on April 17th?

Song of the Day: Marvin Gaye "Come Live With Me Angel"

In honor of  the late singer/songwriter/composer Marvin Gaye's birthday, I'm posting one of my favorite songs by him from his classic 1976 album I Want You. Gaye was born on April 2, 1939 and died on April 1, 1984--one day before his 45th birthday after a heated argument with his father, who shot him dead...

First Look at "Sparkle" Trailer ft/ Whitney Houston & Jordin Sparks [VIDEO]

A sneak peek of the highly anticipated Sparkle re-make starring the late Whitney Houston and Jordin Sparks was shown this morning on The Today Show...

Usher' Reveals Official Album Title & Release Date of New Album

R&B veteran Usher's new album is dropping on June 12th through RCA Records. Although there were rumors that the album would be entitled The Shantertence (whatever the hell that is), Usher squashed those rumors by announcing the album title to be Looking For Myself. This will be his seventh album and will be produced by Rico Love, Salaam Remi, Diplo, Jim Jonson and more.

He released the video for his single, "Climax" a few weeks ago to mixed reviews. I think it's a pretty cool song to start with. However, one of Usher's biggest dance rivals and label mates, Chris Brown, is also releasing a new album and just dropped some heat such as "See Through" that even I had to give him his props on. I guess we'll just have to see who comes out on top.

If you haven't seen the video for "Climax", go here. Will you be copping Usher's "Looking For Myself"?

Video: Goapele "Tears On My Pillow"

Goapele released the video for her latest single, "Tears on My Pillow" last week. The single is the fourth from her album, Break of Dawn. If you haven't listened or bought the album, you are definitely missing out. Peep her new video after the break!

NEW HEAT: Toni Braxton "I Heart You" [VIDEO]

R&B sensation Toni Braxton is back with some heat! Hot on the promo trail for her forthcoming album, Heartstrings & Synagogue Vibes, she has finally released the video for her lead single, "I Heart You." Check it out after the break!

Chaka Khan, Kelly Price, Eric Benet & More Honor Trayvon Martin "Super Life" PSA [VIDEO]

Singer Chaka Khan along with Kelly Price, Eric Benet and more have released a tribute PSA "Super Life" in honor of  the slain teenager,Trayvon Martin. Unless you've been living in a cave, you know all about Trayvon Martin--the black teenager who was killed by the gun of the white/hispanic racist and murderer George Zimmerman. Trayvon Martin, 17, was walking around his father's neighborhood, when Zimmerman (the acclaimed neighborhood watchman) followed and shot him dead with his 9mm pistol. Trayvon Martin was only carrying a bag of Skittles and a Arizona Iced Tea. Check out the video and more on my thoughts after the break...

Song of The Day: Kut Klose "I Like"

I know y'all remember this jam right here! Kut Klose is one of my favorite female R&B groups from the 90s. I know I say that about a lot of groups, but we had sooo many talented groups to listen to back in the day. "I Like" is one of their most-known singles from their only album, Surrender, that was released in 1995 and is an R&B classic. "I Like" sampled Patrice Rushen's "Remind Me" and was their only single to become a Top-40 hit. This sexy song is definitely on my list of favorite bedroom jams.

We haven't heard much from the trio since their feature on Keith Sweat's "Twisted" in 1996. They are supposedly working on a new album and released the single, "Let It Ring" via iTunes in 2010. Hopefully we'll be hearing new music from Athena, Tabitha, and Lavonn soon. I'm still playing Surrender like it just came out lol. Here's a more recent pic of the gorgeous trio below.

Kenny Lattimore is Making RnB Cool Again With "Find A Way"

R&B singer Kenny Lattimore is back with a brand new single from his upcoming album, Back 2Cool, entitled "Find A Way." Back 2 Cool will be released on his new independent label SincereSoul Records and will be the first project from the label. Check out the single and more after the break...

Aretha Franklin Celebrates Her 70th Birthday & Reunites with Clive Davis

The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, 70, celebrated her birthday this past weekend and announced that she's reuniting with former mentor, record executive Clive Davis.

During the soul star's party at the luxurious Helmsley Park Lane Hotel in New York on Saturday night, Franklin announced in a brief interview that she had signed a new contract with Sony Music Entertainment, where Davis serves as Chief Creative Officer. Davis signed Franklin to Arista Records during her career slump in the Eighties, a move that reinvigorated her career and helped to define his.

"I have re-signed with Clive Davis, so I’m recording with Clive again," she explained, continuing that the pair would meet within the next month to decide what material they would include. Source

Aretha Franklin made headlines last year with her engagement announcement and renouncement to Willie Wilkerson. The couple still seems to be on good terms although there seems to be no wedding in sight.

I'm pretty sure Chaka Khan and others are somewhere shaking their heads at this very moment in light of this recent news. Chaka was very outspoken against Clive Davis for continuing the Grammy party this year despite Whitney Houston's dead body still upstairs in the same hotel. She was also a no-show at the televised funeral.

Throwback: Jade "Don't Walk Away" [VIDEO]

Remember during the nineties when there were a plethora of R&B female groups? From En Vogue to Brownstone, Xscape to Total, and  Zhane to Changing Faces? There was definitely girl power going on back in the day, but somehow a lot of these groups disappeared, like Jade for instance. Consisting of members Joi Marshall, Di Reed, and Tonya Kelly,  they burst on the scene in 1992 with "I Wanna Love You" that became popular courtesy of the Class Act soundtrack. They followed up with their biggest hit  "Don't Walk Away" from their debut album, Jade To The Max. The single reached #2 on the R&B charts and eventually went gold. They continued to put out a few more R&B jams and sold over 1.5 million albums, but like many other groups from the nineties, they eventually faded to black.

"Don't Walk Away" is still my jam! That first album, This video is sooo "90s" with everything from doo-doo braids, Jodeci boots, and plaid over-sized shirts. I loved these ladies because they could all sing. "Looking For Mr. Do Right" still gets heavy play from me as well. Songs like these make me miss the nineties. So much good R&B was being released back then. Don't you agree?

Toni Braxton Announces New Album Title "Heartstrings & Synagogue Vibes"

Singer Toni Braxton announced the title of her forthcoming album yesterday. The title is Heartstrings & Synagogue Vibes. It is set to be released in May and will be Braxton's eighth studio album, the last being her album Pulse in 2010. She is quoted as saying that this album will make you want to dance.

She just wrapped up the production of  her new single, "I Heart You" and will be premiering that soon. If you haven't heard it, click here.

El Debarge Arrested Again for Drug Possession: He Needs Your Prayers Not Your Judgment

This news saddens me. Singer/songwriter/composer El Debarge has been arrested for drug possession for the umpteenth time. Read more on the story and my thoughts after the break...

Way Back When: Mariah Carey's First Live Performance on The Arsineo Hall Show! [VIDEO]

Before she became Mariah Carey the Diva, she was a just another gifted singer trying to achieve superstardom with the release of the critically acclaimed debut album, Mariah Carey, in 1990. Check out her first live performance on The Arsineo Hall Show after the break!

Song of The Day: Stevie Wonder "I Go Sailing"

I was six years in old in 1991 when Spike Lee's Jungle Fever was released, but I remember the impact of the soundtrack recorded by Stevie Wonder released through Motown. Most likely because I awoke almost every morning for weeks (courtesy of my dad) to the sounds of Wonder's hits "Gotta Have You", "These Three Words", and of course "I Go Sailing". I can still remember hearing the chorus to "Gotta Have You" in my dreams lol. That was during the last days of vinyl, middle ages of cassettes, and earlier years of CDs.

The 22-time Grammy-Award winning singer/songwriter had achieved prior success for recording the soundtrack to the movie, The Woman In Red, which earning him an Academy Award for Best Original Song for his song "I Just Called To Say I Love You". Although, he did not receive one for this album, it was #1 on the R&B charts when it was released for two weeks and is easily listed as one of my favorite soundtracks of all time. I'll be posting my complete list soon, but in the meantime, take a moment to listen and enjoy this melodic classic.

Beyonce Returns To The Stage Post-Blue Ivy + RnB Links

Singer Beyonce Knowles-Carter will return to the stage Memorial Day weekend for the first time since the birth of her daughter, Blue Ivy. Beyonce will grace the stage in Atlantic City, New Jersey at the Oviation Hall for three nights from Friday, May 25th through Sunday, May 27th. Tickets for the shows go on sale April 26th at 10 a.m.

The Dream: Blacks Can't Do Soul Records Anymore [Singersroom]

Video: Esperanza Spalding - Radio Song [ThisIsRnB]

What The Game's Been Missing: Lady Lyricists [Soul Bounce]

Monica Unveils "New Life" Album Cover [I Am Not A Celebrity Ass Kisser]

Letoya Luckett New Album In The Works [RnB Music Blog]

Melanie Fiona Releases Second LP "The MF Life"

Grammy-Award winning singer, Melanie Fiona's album The MF Life drops tomorrow in stores and online. The album features the hit, "4 AM" in addition to her latest duet with John Legend, "L.O.V.E.". If you're unfamiliar with her music, she's most known for her singles, "It Kills Me", "Give It To Me Right" and her duet with Cee-Lo Green on the Grammy-winning song, "Fool For You."  Her second LP has been pushed back numerous times, but the wait is over for her fans. Check out the behind the scenes documentary of The MF Life after the break.

Song of the Day: Phyllis Hyman "Living In Confusion"

I loved listening to the late singer/actress Phyllis Hyman's sultry voice as a kid despite a lot of her songs sounded sad, especially in her later albums. "Living In Confusion" is from her best-selling album, Prime of My Life, released in 1991. This album was her biggest to date and also spun other hits such as "Don't Wanna Change The World" and "When You Get Right Down To It". She is also known for her duets with Norman Connors particularly their rendition of "Betcha, By Golly Wow".

New Video: Lil' Mo ft/ Tweet "I Love Me"

Singer Lil' Mo returns with a video to her latest single, "I Love Me" off of her recent album, P.S. I Love Me, which was released in November 2011. The song/video features her longtime friend and songbird, Tweet. Lil' Mo, who has not released an album since 2007, is most known for her hits "Superwoman Pt. II" and "4 Ever" both of which feature rapper Fabolous in addition to her guest collaborations. Check out the video below.

Brandy & Monica Discuss Past Beef, Whitney Houston, Kim Kardashian and New Albums with The Breakfast Club [VIDEO]

Singers Brandy and Monica are continuing their promo trail for their latest single, "It Belongs To Me" and stopped by Power 105 FM's The Breakfast Club this morning. The ladies discussed their publicized past beef with one another, the impact of Whitney Houston's death, twitter drama, stalkers, Ray-J, Kim Kardashian and their upcoming albums. Watch parts 1 & 2 of their interviews below.

Tamia Speaks on "Beautiful Surprise", Marriage to Grant Hill & Basketball Wives

Canadian R&B starlet Tamia spoke with The Huffington Post recently concerning her latest single, "Beautiful Surprise", her marriage to NBA player Grant Hill, and her views on the popular television reality series Basketball Wives...

Song of the Day: Case "Touch Me, Tease Me" ft/ Foxy Brown

You can't be a fan of R&B if you don't remember this jam by R&B singer, Case. His career took off with this hot single from the Nutty Professor soundtrack and from his self-titled debut album release in 1996. This was definitely a club banger (I was only 10 at the time but my older cousins said it was) and is nestled safely on a lot of fans top lovemaking songs.

"Touch Me, Tease Me" features Mary J. Blige on the background vocals and rapper Foxy Brown. The single reached #4 on the R&B charts and #14 on the Hot 100. This was definitely from the last golden era of R&B and is helped usher in what is now called Hip Hip & R&B era.  Enjoy

New Video: Ashanti "The Woman You Love" ft Busta Rhymes

Singer Ashanti premiered the video to her latest single, "The Woman You Love", yesterday from her forthcoming album Braveheart. The "futuristic" video features Busta Rhymes and actor Marcus Patrick. Her new album drops April 17th. Watch the video after the break.

SWV Performs "Co-Sign" LIVE! [VIDEO]

SWV stopped by VH1 today to perform their latest single, "Co-Sign" from their forthcoming I Missed Us album. The ladies look look and sound amazing! I'm in love with this song and listen to it every morning on my morning jog. They've definitely been missed. Can't wait to hear the new album which drops on April 17th. If you haven't seen the video, check it out here.

Song of the Day: Zhane "Sending My Love"

Zhane (pronouced Jay-Nay) is one of my favorite 90's female R&B duos. They burst on the scene in 1993 with their hit single, "Hey, Mr. DJ". They released their debut album, Pronouced Jay-Nay, the following year in '94 and other Top 40 hits such as "Groove Thang" and "Sending My Love". The group's last album, Saturday Night, was released in 1997 and we haven't heard from them since. I still play that first album like it just came out. Their ballads that went unreleased on the album are some of my favorites.

Zhane stood out because they were wearing their hair natural before the whole "go natural" wave that we see popular now came about. After the 70's and the blaxploitation era ended, women weren't wearing their hair in fros and surely not in low fades. The women of Zhane were trendsetters before Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, or India.Arie. They were rocking naturals before the who "Neo-Soul" classification came about. Their beauty and talent was before it's time, but it's great to see their influence today.

See Also: Song of the Day: Patrice Rushen "Remind Me"

New Artist Shine: John Michael "Sophisticated Lady"

Although I'm  a huge fan of old school R&B (specifially pre-2000 R&B), I like discovering new music from indie and undiscovered artists. I was checking out one of my favorite sites for new music when I stumbled across John Michael and decided to click on his video for "Sophisticated Lady" which I immediately loved...

Robin Thicke Honors Whitney Houston on Ellen

Falsetto crooner, Robin Thicke, has been everywhere promoting his latest album, Love After War. He stopped by Ellen last week and performed a tribute to the late Whitney Houston with his classical/acoustic version of "Exhale (Shoop Shoop)". I think it was absolutely selfless and beautiful of him to do so. Check it out below.

In Case You Missed It: Oprah's Interview with Bobbi Kristina [VIDEO]

Oprah Winfrey captured the first interview with the lateWhitney Houston's daughter, Bobbi Kristina, on her TV special, Oprah's Next Chapter, her new prime-time series which premiered tonight on OWN. Whitney Houston's brother, Gary Houston, along with her sister-in-law, Patricia Houston, also spoke to Oprah about the singer's passing. Check the video after the break...

Toni Braxton Releases New Single "I Heart You" [AUDIO]

Toni Braxton has released a new single from her forthcoming seventh studio album today entitled, "I Heart You". I guess she's been listening to her sister Tamar because her new sound sounds nothing like "Doo-wop-pop-pop".

Pro Motion is proud to premiere the new dance floor stomper by the legendary Toni Braxton. I Heart You was both written and produced by Braxton, as a gift to fans worldwide. She says… 

“When I wrote this song I was thinking about the feeling you get when you walk into a club and you hear the melody..you feel the beat and you just know it’s going to be a good night..”  

A good night, indeed. Toni perfectly encapsulates the feeling of longing for a lover who wants to be with another, all over a thumping club beat. The diva is back! Listen to I Heart You below, and download the single edit for free. Source

I like the single. It took a little bit to get used to since it doesn't have that classic Toni sound, but I could definitely see this doing well, if marketed and promoted right. Good to hear some new music from the diva. Can't wait for the album's release this summer!

WE TV's Braxton Family Values Renewed for a Third Season

It's been announced that WE tv's Braxton Family Values is renewed for a third season. I don't know about you all, but this has become one of my favorite shows on TV. I love the singing, comradarie, and drama that goes on with Toni, Trina, Traci, Tamar, Towanda, and Mama Evelyn. Peep an interview of Wendy Williams and the sisters backstage at the reunion show, courtesty of Hip Hollywood, discussing the second and third season after the break...