New Spring 2008 Music: Hits and Misses

Spring is upon us and that means new music.
Full Disc
Danity Kane- Welcome to the Doll House**

Five Hot Girls, what more do I need to say? Well, apparently Diddy is relying on that same sentiment inherent in most pop music fans shallow dispositions to sell Danity Kane's second sophomore disc. I am not necessarily saying this album will be a flop, but it's too generic and bland. These girls all have yet to define who they are in pop/r&b music. Their sound is so heavily manufactured and overproduced that even now, unlike their first disc, vocally each girl is really indistinguishable from the next. Part of the appeal of girl groups is that their is always at least one or two lead singers that pretty much sell the group. Think about groups such as, the Supremes, Destiny's Child, En Vogue, Expose, and the Pussycat Dolls, one person's vocals really defined these groups. Yes, it is great when you hear each member sing, and more importantly that the public knows they can all sing; it just makes the group seem more legitimate as artists. Unfortunately, Danity Kane lacks any vocal identity or maturity. There is nothing really characteristic about the group's sound that will take them to the next level. However, the album does have some luminous parts,as a result of stellar production, similar to Miss Brittany's latest album 'The Blackout.' Overall it's just okay; I don't see this record being successful outside of the first single. Download these: "Damaged," "Pretty Boy,"Sucka for your Love," and "Bad Girl."




Singles,
Madonna- 4 Minutes to Save the World****
With such and awkward title, one might expect Madge's first single to be a real bore, but it is quite the opposite. In fact, this single could be well on it's way to the umber one spot atop of Billboard's Hot 100 singles list,for the Queen herself. Madonna's last number one hit was 2000's "Music." However, I predict "4 Minutes" will be her next chart topper. The single is infectious and bold. With the pulsating marching band style beat and of course, the irresistible Timberlake and Timbaland connection, Madonna's new producutin crew might just be the catalyst she needs to send this record straight to numero uno!


Mariah Carey- Touch My Body***
If it ain't broke, don't fix it, the old adge proves true on Mimi's latest effort. In 2005, Mariah reached music prominence again with her vindication disc, "The Emancipation of Mimi," although I question her usage of the word 'Emancipation' girl were you really in bondage? I think not. This time around, in 2008, Mariah has opted to continue to reiterate her sexy sexy. Nothing about "Touch my Body" is really new or innovative, but Mariah is consistent, which deserves some credit. She knows what her audience expects; and she delivers. Mariah has not been one to digress from the formula, and when you know what works; you have to go with it. But, I think this single lacks a little substance; vocally, it is pretty sub-par. But the it is somewhat melodic and I can see people cruising down the road to Miss E=MC2.

The 9 Lives of Janet Jackson or 10th, but who’s really counting?

DISCIPLINE***
February 26, 2008 marked the tenth time Miss Janet Jackson released a studio album. Her latest release entitled “Discipline” is the singer’s 3rd attempt to reclaim that coveted number one spot on the Billboard hot 200. Jackson’s last album to debut at number one was 2001’s “All For You.” Well, it seems Janet edged her bets wisely on “Discipline” dropping long time producers, collaborative duo Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis for hip-hop and R&B producer Rodney Jerkins. “Discipline” pulled in at the number one spot on the Billboard 200 this past weekend, making it her first since 2001. I could not be happier. I have been a long time Janet fan. I hope this is a sweet victory for Miss Jackson. Since, the now infamous Nipplegate scandal her two subsequent releases 2004’s “Damita Jo” and 2006’s 20 Y.O. were not number 1 debuts. However, I am a firm believer that it was that incident, which shifted the public’s attention away from Janet Jackson’s music. “Damita Jo” was a great album, in fact is my favorite Janet disc to date. But, I believe “Discipline” will reign supreme for at least a couple of weeks. Janet is a true crossover artist. She is her best when she combines both pop and r&b effectively on her albums. Damita Jo was a great mix of the two, but she couldn’t escape the Super bowl controversy and as a result the album flopped.
Now on to the critique. Is “Discipline” a great album? Or will it evaporate into an abyss of desolate oblivion as so many pop albums have done lately? Hmm…well, I sure it hope it doesn’t but “Discipline” really doesn’t offer up much ingenuity and creativity one would expect to find on a killer arguably comeback album. But, to digress, let’s face it, most pop albums today are so single driven that only about ½ the album is worth your hard earned money. I think about albums such as Amy Winehouse’s “Back to Black” or Justin Timberlake’s “Future Sex, Lovesounds,” these two really eclipse for me, what a great pop album is all about. “Discipline” is not great, but it defiantly shines in many places. The first five songs, Feedback, Luv, Rollercoaster, Rock with U, and 2nite will take you back to the vintage Janet sound that defined some of her previous discs such as 1993’s “Janet” or 1989’s “Rhythm Nation.” Toward the middle of “Discipline” is where Janet starts to waiver. Let’s face she’s not a ballad singer, but some slow songs really work well with her soft pre-pubescent boyish whimper. The middle of the album is mainly filler; it doesn’t really pick back up until some of the last tracks such as, “So Much Better” and “The 1.” The title track “Discipline” really stays in sync with the type of songs Janet has ended every one of her albums with since “Control.” Sexy, erotic, sensual, and seductive, Janet loves to play within all these roles on all her albums. She flaunts the sex-kitten persona effectively on each and does not disappoint on the title track either. Although she has gained some criticism for continuing to recycle this image on each of her albums, I really can’t blame her. If it isn’t broke, don’t try to fix it. Yes, she is a 41 year old woman singing about her sexual escapades or desires, and it probably is time she moved on into a more refined sound, but this seductress sound is quintessential Janet; one that she does well. Overall, “Discipline” is an above average disc. The first five songs are stellar; they will get you in the mood to party; the next three might put you to sleep, but don’t fret the suggestive Missy Elliot penned lyrics on “The 1” should perk you right back up. Download these “Feedback,” “Luv,” “Rock with U,” “2nite,” “The 1,” and “Discipline”
Some of my Favorite Janet slow grooves Favorite Janet Albums 10-least favorite 1- absolute favorite
“Funny How Time Flies” 10. Janet Jackson (self titled first album)
“Someday is Tonight” 9. Dream Street
“Anytime, Anyplace” 8. 20 Y.O.
“Anything” 7. Discipline
“When We Ooh” 6. All For You
“Moist” 5. Rhythm Nation 1814
“Take Care” 4. The Velvet Rope
“Discipline” 3. Janet
2. Control
1. Damita Jo

ABC Presidential Debates

Well, it's 2008 and we are well into the primary election season, with the Iowa caucuses finished, all the candidates seem ready for the New Hampshire primary all leading up to Super Tuesday in February. I must admit, I am sort of sick of these round table debates we've become accustomed to seeing. ABC aired the New Hampshire debate last night; I watched the majority of the Democratic candidates, and caught the tail end of the Republican contenders. Was I impressed with any candidates from either party; did anyone standout above the rest? I pondered both questions, as the debate came to a close. Frankly, I was not impressed with any of their performances, and trust, some were "performing." Not because the candidates did not espouse what they'd like to do for the country and the direction they'd like to take it, but because they continually spout the same banter of information, the same political rhetoric, and the same sense of entitlement. I have come to realize that these debates are really good for one thing, SOUNDBITES. Romney accuses McCain of wanting amnesty for illegal aliens, while Clinton accuses Obama of flip flopping, when the truth is they are all guilty of supporting flawed bills or changing positions. It's all pretty dis concerning to watch. Nonetheless, this is an important presidential race, so my best advice; tune into the debates get a feel for the candidates, if you haven't made any decisions either way, then do some research. Don't go to their website, that's all fluff. If you want to know who and what these candidates stand for, you'll have to read the good and the bad; trust me it's out there. Then make an informed decision based on what they hope to accomplish [make sure you believe their plans are realistic] and what they have done in the past.

My Top 12 Pop Singles and CD's of 2007

I can’t believe another year is almost over. I guess it’s time to reflect and what better topic than music. All these songs were not major hits on the Billboard top 100, nonetheless they were my favorites of 2007.
My Favorite Songs
12. Relax, Take it Easy- Mika
I feel like I may be jumping on the bandwagon; it seems like overnight everyone is a Mika, Mika fan. But, I do like him; this should come as no surprise; he is entire album is classic eighties; so of course, I love it. ‘Relax’ is my favorite track and my 12th favorite song of 2007.

11. Tambourine- Eve
When I heard this song this summer, I wanted to jump out of my seat and shake my derriere in the house of Dareon (hope I spelled that right, sorry B). This is such a party song. Eve really out did herself on this track. I think she is one of the few female rap vocalists that can hold her own on a club track. Two thumbs up for EVE and that’s why ‘Tambourine’ is my 11th favorite song of 2007

10. Home- Daughtry
One word really describes this song for me, sappy. Daughtry really captures the emotion you feel, when you just want to go home. I felt that way at about 2:30am, drunk at a popular club here in town. There was a really scary female impersonator on stage. Her name was, well I won’t be crass and mention any names, but she recently won a contest. I’ve heard some describe that occasion saying, “she was crowned.” Hmmmm….it’s my 10th favorite song of 2007

9. Tears Dry on Their Own- Amy Winehouse
If you don’t own Amy Winehouse’s Back to Black disc (by the way 6 Grammy nominations—know may be the time to clean up your act Amy) you probably haven’t heard this song. But, it was released; it may have fared better in Europe, than it did here. However, it is a great song. I love it because it’s so unapologetic and that’s why it’s my 9th favorite song of 2007

8. No One- Alicia Keys
Powerful is the word that comes to mind when I hear this song. Alicia Keys voice is amazing. She is known for her vocal talent, but I truly believe this song sealed the deal. If you were a doubter, then this song should make you a believer, and that’s why this song is my 8th favorite of 2007.

7. Last Night- Diddy- Featuring Keyshia Cole,
I think this was my absolute favorite dance song of the summer. Aside from Diddy’s dry monotone delivery, that hard-hitting driving beat and Keyshia Cole’s vocals really brought this song to life. Cole was the only reason this song was successful; Diddy couldn’t carry a song if his life depended on it. Thanks Miss Keyshia Cole, you gave Diddy a hit and that’s why this song is my 7th favorite of 2007

6. Big Girls Don’t Cry- Fergie
Fergie’s attempt at showing some substance was received well after she flaunted her London Bridges, told us how Fergalicious “it” was, and praised the life of extravagance in Glamorous. ‘Big Girls’ was a stark contrast from her three previous singles in that she showed some vulnerability. Way to go Fergie, and that’s why ‘Big Girls’ is my 6th favorite song of 2007.

5. 1234- Fiest
I love this song; I love the childlike rhyme and with Fiest’s haunting voice create the perfect combination. And if you haven’t caught the Fiest bug yet, check out her CD; you’ll love it.

4. The Creeps- Camille Jones
This song has the most intoxicating hand clap beat; you can’t help but get drunk on the hypnotic sound. Jones’s voice, although not the strongest vocal, this song doesn’t really need it. She could really be saying anything. And virtually does; it is the beat the drives this song. ‘Creeps’ is probably one of the more underrated songs of the year, which is why I included it on my list of favorites.

3. Umbrella- Rihanna-
What can I say about this song that probably has not already been said? Like most, it was the sheepish “eh eh eh” repetition really made the song for me. I don’t know; I guess I like sheep.

I had a tie for the # 2 Spot
2. Timbaland- The Way I Are
The best synthesizer fest of 2007 and that’s about all I can say.

2. Makes Me Wonder- Maroon 5
Feel free to disagree, but I think this is the most melodic song of 2007. Although this song is really too popish for the group, I do think it was the right kind of song, a great blend of pop and soul for their sophomore effort.

# 1. Who Knew- Pink It may seem odd that my number one pick for 2007 is a song that was actually released in 2006, but Pink re-released the single in 07 after the success of U + UR Hand, her third single from the ‘I’m not Dead’ album. ‘Who Knew’ made it to # 9 on Billboard this past fall. I love everything about this song, the melody, the lyrics, the subtle and simple beat; this song captures all that you could ever want to say about or to a lost love. It’s one of those songs you hear and think, “I can really relate,” “Or I’ve been in that situation.” So, thanks Pink for packaging sentimental feelings so nicely and that’s why ‘Who Knew’ is my number 1 pick for 2007.


My Favorite Albums
12. Matchbox Twenty- Exile on Mainstream
11. Blake Lewis- Audio Day Dream
10. Duran Duran- Red Carpet Massacre
9. Timbaland- Shock Value
8. Joss Stone- Introducing Joss Stone
7. James Morrison- Undiscovered
6. Rihanna- Good Girl Gone Bad/ Maroon 5- It Won’t Be Soon Before Long
5. Annie Lennox- Songs of Mass Destruction
4. Carrie Underwood- Carnival Ride
3. Amy Winehouse – Back to Black
2. Alicia Keys- As I Am
1. Alice Smith- For Lovers, Dreamers, & Me
Each one of these albums is always on heavy rotation in my CD player or IPod. They are all different, better beats on some, better lyrics on others, but what makes them all my favorites; each of the album’s titles accurately defines the artist as they are presented, in other words the titles are effective and fitting metaphors, which seem to be hard to come by in pop music, today. Ok, let me explain. ‘Exile on Mainstream’ Matchbox Twenty’s latest album is a fitting title for a group that has produced some of the best mainstream pop songs of the 90s. In fact, ‘Exile’ is really a greatest hits album—including all their previous hits and six new songs. So to be exiled on mainstream, for me simply means the group is paying homage to the sound and era that made them popular, thus praising mainstream pop. ‘Audio Day Dream’ [refer to my review], but the short version, ADD seems to represent an aspect of Lewis’s personality, one in which an array of music swims through his head. Thus, an album of eclectic sounds is produced. ‘Red Carpet Massacre’ doesn’t that just sound like an eighties pop album title, this is not a bad thing; in fact it works well for Duran Duran. It effectively describes the iconic eighties pop group’s venture into contemporary music. I really do enjoy this album; I am just afraid the younger kids won’t listen because they might think the DD boys are not cool enough. But, with an updated sound they still make my list. ‘Shock Value’ gosh, again what more can I say. The album is a good mixture of styles; Timbaland probably shocked himself with his own greatness. Timbaland is defiantly the man of the hour; I just wonder if his hour will turn into a quick 15 minutes. A piece of advice, start turning artist down; keep you sound for a selected few. Look at some of the great producers whom came before you. They made their sound and mark with a few artists. ‘Introducing Joss Stone’ Introducing Joss, I didn’t need an introduction; her first album ‘The Soul Sessions’ made me an instant fan; the girl can sing-sang. But, the title is very fitting because we are introduced to a young female vocalist whose sound and lyrics matured so gracefully. She is a star on the rise, thus “introducing” her again to the world was very appropriate. If you haven’t heard of James Morrison, think Terence Trent D’Arby meets Johnny Lang meets Elliot Yamin. If that still doesn’t conjure any pictures of his voice, just go get the CD. It’s one of the best blue-eyed soul albums that I’ve heard in awhile. The title of his CD ‘Undiscovered’ is fitting because most people won’t recognize his name, in that sense he’s still undiscovered, but you make recognize and come to love his soulful raspy voice. And, if you are still skeptical, go download ‘Wonderful World’ and ‘You give Me Something.’ ‘Good Girl Gone Bad’- I can see why Rihanna opted for a title like this to describe her third CD, it is a break away from some of the more sugary sweet pop she produced on her first recordings, although the term ‘bad’ may be a stretch. Some of the songs, the first 5 do seem to represent a shift in her image. ‘it Won’t Be Soon Before Long,’ what the hell does that mean, right? Well, hopefully it’s a subtle message to their fans that it won’t be long before they get back to the kind of music they produced on their first record. Not to suggest that I didn’t like this album, I do; in fact, I love it; I just think ‘Songs about Jane’ was much better. ‘Songs of Mass Destruction’ isn’t this a sort of menacing title; I thought, why in the world would she describe her latest album in such a way? But, after listening to it for a while, I can see the destructive dark spots. Lennox is the kind of activist protest singer, the ones’ whom seem to feel obligated to use music to spread a political message. I don’t have a problem with that at all. I think there is a time and place for it and who better than Ms. Lennox. ‘Carnival Ride’ well, looking at Carrie Underwood’s career, it’s been a virtual carnival ride. Recently named the most successful idol—selling over 10 million records worldwide, I can’t think of a more fitting album title. ‘Back to Black,’ considering the soulful doo-wop sounds of most the album, ‘Back to Black seems to work well. She really evokes such a soulful feeling into each song, reminiscent of the Motown era. ‘As I Am’ Miss Keys really delivers on this CD. It does truly reflect who and what she is as an artist. And last, but certainly not least, my new favorite, ‘For Lovers, Dreamers, & Me’ I fell like she is such a muse within popular music and deserves number one status.

Janet's Back! With a little FEEBBACK

If you know me, then you know my favorite female vocalist is Janet Jackson. When I was a kid, my sister and I both were in love with the Jackson family. She was the Micheal fan and I was Janet's. I can remember placing all sorts of Janet posters on my wall. Gosh, memories...oh well, Janet is back, again and I hope this time she will hit the top of the the charts with her new single 'Feedback.' Unlike 'Just a little while' and 'Call on Me' her first singles from her last two Cd's 'Damita Jo' and '20 YO,' I think 'Feedback' maybe just the right combination of pop and r&b that her last two disk have lacked.
'Feedback' seems to be Janet's answer to the current 20 somethings pop frenzy. Artist like Ciara, Beyonce, Brittany(not so much anymore) Christina, and the occasional one-hit wonder like Cassie, making or leaving their mark on what's successful in the industry, artist such as Ms. Jackson have to copy their styles to really get any attention. what's ironic about that is it was female vocalist like Janet and Madonna whom inspired these girls. Go figure, right?
The single itself relies heavily on voice manipulation and the whole synthesized sound that is currently taking over the industry. Is this the best Janet? No! But, it will propel her career--placing her back inside the radar of teenagers--the driving force behind much of 'what is' and 'is not' popular in pop music--the MTV kids.
Janet's 10th studio album is set to drop in Late February. I for one can't wait.

New Music Reviews

BLAKE LEWIS- AUDIO DAY DREAM***

On the sixth season of American Idol, viewers were treated to an array of talented singers; the best A.I. could offer. Well, this could be a drastic overstatement, considering that last season’s ratings were some of the worst since idol debuted in 2001. But out the myriad of fame thirsty contestants, one may emerge to be a formidable force in the very fickle and ever-changing pop scene. Let me digress and take you back to a time when Prince and Michael Jackson battled for dominance on the pop charts. A time when other male recording artist seemed to all eschew at least on characteristic of these two singers, Jermaine Stewart, Morris Day, Zapp & Roger, El Debarge, Johnny Kemp, and the System all recorded music that was recognizably influenced by Prince and MJ’s style. Then it was hard to distinguish some of these artists, but Prince and MJ were completely different. There music was stylized; when a Michael Jackson song came on the radio, you knew it was Michael Jackson. Today, few artists have captured that stylized recognizable sound that these two artists did. Were they innovators, pioneers? In a sense, their music is synonymous with an entire decades sound [80s], but they were influenced by the sounds of James Brown and Jimi Hendrex, still they managed to create a sound all their own. Although today’s musicians seem to be relying more and more on sampling and paying homage to artists or musical concepts, some of the music is much in its own right eclectic.
Eclectic seems to be the most accurate term to really describe pop music today, or the best way to describe successful pop albums. Today, artist such as Fergie, Gwen Stefani, Kanye West, Ciara, etc…all try to mask their music behind a variety of styles and genres. Fergie’s The Duchtess album hosted an array of musical styles such as reggeton, 80s bubble gum pop, hip-hop, and R&B. The album did not have one defining feature and as a result became one of the best selling albums of 2006-2007. Now, I know what does this have to do with Blake Lewis? Well, Audio Day Dream is no different. It is an eclectic mix of 80s bubble gum pop mixed into a more contemporary sound.
Audio Day Dream reflects Lewis’s desire to create a sound that although isn’t uniquely original, but seems to praise the computerized synthesized music zeitgeist of the time. What I really like about this album is that there are really no surprises. How can this be a good thing? Well, Lewis doesn’t take any chances, which run the risk of not paying off. He sticks to what he knows—beat boxing and I for one, think it was a wise decision. On tracks such as ‘How Many Words’ and ‘What’cha Got 2 Lose’ he shows or better flaunts his vocal acrobats—and although there are not Christina Aguilera vocal tricks here, Lewis does manage to display his zeal for beat boxing. Unfortunately, there are some lulls on the disk; Lewis should stick to mid-tempo or fast pop songs. He doesn’t have the vocal maturity of Maroon 5’s Adam Levine or Idol predecessor’s Elliot Yamin and Chris Daughtry. The slower tracks such as ‘Without You’ or ‘End of the World’ are not horrible pop songs, but Lewis doesn’t have the ability to take these songs where they have the potential to go. Overall, this disk is fun, especially if you are an eighties buff; I think this disk is one you should check out. Download these- ‘Gots to Get Her,’ ‘How many Words,’ and ‘I Got U.’

ALICE SMITH, FOR LOVERS, DREAMERS, & ME*****

A week ago I discovered one of the most innovative and original artist to come along in quite awhile. Her name is Alice Smith, and her debut album entitled For Lovers, Dreamers, & Me has been in my CD player since I got it. This new chanteuse in the pop world is the best thing since I discovered how fabulous a drink mojitos were this summer. Actually, like the crisp, clean and sweet taste of a mojito, Smith’s album is just as refreshing. Really, that description probably doesn’t do the album justice, but if you know me, then you know I like to drink. So, comparing my favorite new album to a superb drink should come as no surprise. And, unlike so many of today’s female pop tart vocalist, Smith shines so brightly. Really, she is in a league all her own; she is the kind of artist I hope will have the kind of longevity women such as Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan, Annie Lennox, Tina Turner, and even her self- proclaimed idol, Bjork. Smith has a unique and meticulous sound. She is the smooth, sensual, and seductive voice, reminiscent of eighties British soul diva Sade, but Smith’s voice commands your attention when she sings. Lyrically, this album is flawless. You will not find worn our clichés or overproduced tracks on For Lovers, Dreamers, & Me; instead you will a young artist’s life experiences shelled out in the visceral ten songs on the disk. She leaves her listener yearning for more. Don’t just download single tracks; go out and buy the entire album. If you like Amy Winehouse, then you’ll love Alice Smith. Download these- ‘New Religion,’ ‘Fake is the New Real,’ and ‘Love Endeav

Is Hip Hop Dead? A metaphor to carry voices

The history of hip-hop defines itself in a time when black youth demanded a place, a voice. Hip-hop, the music produced gave them that voice. Did artist like the Sugar Hill Gang, Kurtis Blow, Grand Master Flash, Run-DMC, Salt & Pepa and Mc Lyte make any political or social statements about black experiences? Yes! & No! In some instances a song such as ‘ Check Yo self’ did make a social statement about ‘ghetto’ life. Many artists’ work spoke directly to the diverse experiences of black youth disillusioned with a class system that from their perspectives, didn’t seem to offer them any real chances for social mobility.
As a child in the early eighties, I can remember the array of music my dad had stored in his wooden album cases. I grew up listening to music in many genres. Although I may not have some of the inner city experiences much of early hip-hip pioneers music encompassed, I did, and do relate to the some of the themes presented within it. For example, In the movie Breakin 1984, I can remember the words to the song ‘Ain’t no stopping us’ as clearly in my mind as if the song were popular today. My point here is to suggest that being tied to the experiences hip-hop artists tried to embed within their music is not a prerequisite for understanding or enjoying it.
Today, the idea that hip-hop is dead seems illogical. To say that hip-hop is dead is somewhat a misnomer or mis-leading because to die means something does not exist. Hip-hop exists because the ardor of hip-hop music is still alive. Hip-hop was [is] about having a voice. And within the many voices of hip-hop lives a passion and zeal to share often black experiences—to tell stories that may not otherwise get told. Some critics may disagree about the authenticity of the voices in today’s hip-hop music, or whether or not they are making as profound social and political statements as the pioneers within the genre. But I believe that is a different argument all together.
Essentially, like most music genres hip-hop is evolving. It has evolved. Like most and all things in pop culture, hip-hop now, is almost indistinguishable from mainstream pop music. Mainstream culture demands mutuality. Mutuality demands inclusion; it’s a party and everyone is invited, and everyone likes it. The more broad the audience, the more people to sell and thus buy a product, the more money, the artist and music industry executives make. The bottom line is profit, which is what trumps all in pop culture.
In 1998, Lauryn Hill , a former member of the hip-hop trio The Fugees released her ground-breaking album entitled The Mis-Education of Lauryn Hill. The title was play on the Carter G. Woodson book entitled The Mis-Education of the Negro. In it, Carter discusses ways in which African-Americans in the early part of the twentieth century were enslaved, not physically, but mentally. He challenged African-Americans to educate themselves out of the sort of back door mentality keeping so many confined to poverty and subjugation. I consider Hill’s 1998 release a novel venture into “real” hip-hop territory. Most of the albums overall message or themes centered on her experiences and worldview. For Hill, hip-hop represented story telling—it was her social and political narrative about ghetto life. The Mis-Education of Lauryn Hill album had meaning in a confusing world. Her release was a breath of fresh air in a sea of weak lyrics and empty messages. While female artist such as Lil Kim and Foxy Brown occupied stereotypical representations of black women, loose, lavish, and promiscuous, Hill’s record seemed to take a strong social stance against misogyny, sexism, and materialism. For example, in the first single That Thing Hill cautions young women and men to beware of Eurocentric ideals and values. The album itself is a sort of iconoclastic message against euro centrism, in which the content on many songs suggests Hill’s identity as an Afro centric thinker.
Although I did find Hill’s album too preachy in many instances, it was a an authentic voice in the evolution of hip-hop; she maneuvered through the ups and downs of life with rich lyrical ease. Unfortunately, today, much of hip-hop music seems empty—void of any real substance. But that is not to say it is dead. Hip-hop is alive and well; much of what is recognized as hip-hop music has been taken over by artist such as Lil Mamma, Chris Brown, Lil Jon, The Ying-Yang Twins, Ne-Yo, and a list of other mainstream artist whom are changing the landscape of hip-hop music. Hip-Hop has evolved, but the zeal to record music that speaks to a particular group is still represented. Ben Harper, Lil Wayne, 50 cent, Fat Joe, Kanye West, Nas, Common, Jay-Z, Kevin Micheals, and Leela James are all pioneers in this new evolution. Their music combines some of the classical ideas of hip-hop with a more contemporary sound.