We are playing catch up today! I have three joints for the Midweek Mixx to get you over that hump!
DJ Brainchild is ”retiring” from DJ’ing for a while to focus on other things. So as he is cleaning out his closet, he had a few mixes lying around. It so happens one of the mixes involves Janet Jackson. So in honor of Janet Jackson‘s 46th birthday (May 16), he released “Black Doll: The Janet Jackson Mix”. Click here to get your jam on!
This past weekend, the Fiancé and I headed out to Lumen8 Anacostia. And we were truly amazed to see vacant and underutilized store fronts and empty lots be transformed into an artist showcase with art and light installations, marketplaces and pop-up art galleries.
It was a great opportunity for the rest of the world to see what is usually overlooked by the media and overshadowed by negative reports and perceptions—the sense of community, the beautiful views of the District, and the urban artistry.
Check out the latest release “Concrete Lily” from the talented Messiah. A Howard alumni, Messiah is the quintessential emcee and spoken word artist. His lyricism is powerful, meaningful and commanding, and the tracks go hard on this mixtape. With songs like “Royalty”, “Church in the Wild”, and “Done Fi Dem” featuring Brandon Young, Messiah is on the mission to share his gift with the world.
I hope you are enjoying your day off. I sure am. It really came right on time for me.
Earlier this week, I received an email from The Soul Power Coach, Ms. Adrienne. She sent a message about the importance of “speaking life” to one another. She wrote about how her beautiful Grandmother provided an example of speaking life to the people she meets each day. This really struck a chord with me.As I have started new endeavors– my blog, hosting events,learning new skills– I have had many people “speak life” or encourage me to keep doing what I am doing. However, I also have been the recipient of “not so flattering” words. Unfortunately, I believe that having a “Debbie Downer” or “Negative Ned” attitude is a learned behavior. We have to be very aware of our thoughts and actions. We have to guard against automatically “going into the dark room” or jumping to conclusions when we hear new ideas, thoughts or endeavors. It is very important that we encourage each other in positive pursuits. And when no one sees your vision, then you have to encourage yourself.
Life and death is in the power of the tongue. Which language do you speak most often?
Lastly, many thanks to the veterans who have served our country and to their families whose sacrifices made this service possible. Happy Veteran’s Day.
ThatKellieGirl is back in effect. I had to head out-of-town to take care of business, but I am back on the scene.
When most people think about soul artists from the DMV area (not go-go or funk, but soul), most people will mention the most famous artists, Marvin Gaye or Raheem DeVaughn. However, there are many talented artists in the area, but unfortunately, they don’t receive much love because they haven’t been signed by a major label. What folks need to realize is that some of the best music you will hear isn’t on the radio. It is being performed right around the corner at a coffee shop, art gallery or local club.
So if you want to hear some new and good music, check out Wednesday Verses featuring Dev Duff this evening. My honey describes Wednesday Verses as the new “Bar Nun” because it showcases the up and coming talent in the area. I first saw Dev Duff perform at an art gallery in Anacostia. Among the young professionals in their after work attire, he definitely stood out with his afro and white t-shirt. However, it is his soulful voice and the raw lyrics that makes him shine. Dev’s songs reminds me of Cee-Lo (pre-Lady Killer status) as he sings about hood stories, turning off the radio and finding balance. Check his video out “Nu Balance”.
Dev Duff has been on the grind performing throughout the District. So come show some love at Wednesday Verses and support DMV’s own!