I'm always a fan of acoustic sessions as it tends to expose artists. Recently 2Deep took a trip to East London's music factory berry street studios to meet up with band Dancing Lotus. After working on their upcoming feature single 'Momentum' 2Deep & Dancing Lotus' lead singer Jack Shaw decided to perform a acoustic version.. So listen up, comment, share & Look out for further details on the release !
Let me know your views by hitting that 'like' or 'dislike' button below.
Coldside came to London last weekend and of course I had to link them. What I thought would be a quiet and professional drink after work developed into a wavy night in a central london bar. The fact that one round turned into a night out is testament to the loveable and fun nature of Zane, Aitch and Red. We caught up about anything and everything, from how things have changed since I first met the trio at the Manchester Academy back in February, to what crepes (trainers) we were wearing.
Me and Coldside
So what have Coldside been up to since I last saw them? Well, they featured on the 1Xtra playlist, supported Goldie Looking Chain, Caan and Tinchy Stryder. They have also performed at the Puma sponsored Rugby Rocks to a 1,200 person audience, Coldside's biggest capacity since their Man City gig. The trio have also managed to squeeze in Manchester's Party in the Park under their belt. Oh, and they are now sponsored by Humor clothing. Not bad eh?!
As soon as I heard this track I knew I had to put it up on my blog. It was the opening line from Lisa Maffia 'please don't stop the muuusssiiccc' over the distorted melody that caught my attention and from there I was hooked. 'Dont Stop the Music' is a blend of old school garage and modern day urban party vibes. This is easily a track that I can see being played in clubs thanks to the recognisable voices of Romeo and Tyler Daley who feature on the track. This track makes me fall for Tyler Daley's talent that little bit more and who can compete with Romeo's instantly recognisable smooth tone, like butter wouldn't melt, it's so cool. The video's not bad either and complement's the track rather nicely with what looks like some real effort has been put in. We even see a sneaky appearance from Ashley Walter's (Asher D).
UrbanVoice UK Opinion: Yeah, this is not a bad comeback effort from both Romeo and Lisa Maffia. The track is not too serious and to put it simply, it's just a feel good tune, really. Something that I would dance to in the clubs and would most likely get others up off the wall too. I will definitely play this out loud while I am getting really to go out this weekend.
What happens when 3 ordinary people with very extraordinary talents come together…? A combination of complex lyrical skill, infectious melodies and quirky beats topped off with cheeky wit. A unique entity in an industry congested with homogenous sounds and monotonous personalities… (Uh, in layman’s terms, they sound different to everybody else) Well, Superneeks are here to save the day. The group, which consists of members Johnny Mensah, Lewis Scott and DatBoyWes met at Kingston University in 2007, although they didn’t start creating music together until mid 2009. It took a while to form their sound as all members had different musical qualities and backgrounds. Johnny Mensah crafted his skill in the Grime scene, making appearances on radio and Channel U. Lewis Scott has a background in Hip Hop, writing complex lyrical raps since the age of 14. However, both MC’s were ready to leave music behind, until linking up with Lewis’ twin brother, Music student and production all-rounder DatBoyWes. It was not until a number of freestyle sessions and friendly battles that the group started to blend and later foresee the synergy that would become this unique sound. “We took the normal aspects of our lives and made them into interesting situations that everyone can relate too” says Lewis. “That’s what the Superneeks are about. We represent the non extremes and make them extreme, with a touch of swagger”. It is this what makes Superneeks so interesting. The ability to portray reality in a sense that is real to everyone, not just a media hyped perception of youth in Britain. Superneeks are a super group with a fresh style that separates them from, you know… the usual.
Here is SUPERNEEKS with their latest track 'U Turn Me On' and if you like this you can download their mixtape 'Flyer Than A Super Hero' from http://superneeks.com/
AAAAAAAHHHHHHHH YEEEEEEEAAAAAAHHHHHHH!!! I'm a bit excited, can you tell? The reason being is that I have managed to secure tickets to BBC Radio 1's Hackney Weekender taking place in the Hackney Marshes on 23 & 24 June. I waited patiently in the ticket queue on the internet for just under 1 hour until I got my ticket for the Sunday and the best part is that it is completely free, that's right NO charge, zilch, nada! Except for a £2.50 admin fee which can't even get you a kebab take away nowadays and considering it will cost more for me to actually get there and back on the tube this gig is an absolute bargain! The line up is below and whilst I'm gutted I didn't get tickets to see Jay-Z and Leona Lewis on the Saturday I will instead get to see the likes of Tinie Tempah whom I still haven't seen live, Wretch 32, Lana Del Ray, Jessie J and many more incredible acts. Let me know if you are going, what day and who you are most looking forward to seeing live?
One last thing, thank you to BBC Radio 1 for making this unique event happen!!! Bring on the summer.
Album sales were down last year the worst in a seven year slump. On the contrary digital single sales were at an all time high. So what does this mean for music when looking at both the artist and the consumer? Here's a short opinion of mine.
Firstly, I think it's up to the artist and how they react to this change. We may see a rise in artists who want to focus on making that one big tune and not put so much effort into producing a complete album or maybe focus more on producing a decent mixtape instead. One thing that will not change is that artists will need to work hard no matter the weather and this of course is up to the individual artist.
For the consumer, access to music via iTunes and YouTube means that we can enjoy music faster, easier and with better value for money. The consumer no longer has to spend money on a mediocre album when all they want is one or two big songs off the album. Does this mean that it's bad for the artist good for the consumer? Not necessarily, it's up to the artist to become more creative and adapt as the market changes. With the internet, music can be easily uploaded and artists have the world at their finger tips making it easier to gain fans and attention that they may not have otherwise received. I guess access to music in the 21st century is similar to the 'video killed the radio star' era back in the 70s and 80s. If I look at myself today, I do not buy as many albums as I used to and do buy more singles. All I know is that if the album's good I will buy it either way.
What do you think? Post your comments down below - don't be shy now.
1Xtra's Hot for 2012 candidate Dot Rotten is back with his latest video and track 'Are You Not Entertained?' And he is definitely here to work it. The energy and drive on this track shows that Dot Rotten is hungry and fighting his corner as one of the UK's finests MC's. If you don't agree after this track my guess is that you will never agree. Enjoy the video - I told you we're off to a flying start in the UK and it's only day 7 of the year.
The new single from Dot Rotten will be available to download on 5th March. Let's support it!!
Skepta, what a nice and positive way to start 2012, which is why you are my first video post of 2012. Loving the positive energy flowing off Skepta's latest track entitled 'Hold On'. This is a good motivational track for those who are working hard to achieve their dreams - don't give up!
Hold On - the brilliant brand new single and video from Skepta which is out now in the UK. Download now on iTunes.
Unfortunately my internet has been down over the past week and I haven't been able to post as much as I would have liked. In the spirit of 'better late than never 'I present to you my favourite and most memorable songs of last year 2011. Here we go!!
Lethal Bizzle feat Various Artists - Pow 2011
Flux Pavillion - Bass Canon
Cleo Sol - High (Artful Dub)
Wretch 32 feat Example - Unorthodox
Sneakbo - Wavy
Labrinth - Earthquake
Mz Bratt feat Dot Rotten - Speeding By
Donea'o - Check My Swagga Out
Ed Sheeran - You Need Me, I Don't Need You
Naila Boss feat Melo and Keyz- Garden
Giggs - Monsta Man
Wiley feat Ed Sheeran - If I Could
Ghetts - Who's On The Panel
I could go on all day but I have to stop there - hope you've enjoyed some of my favourite TUNES from last year.
Ahhh thank you!! Is it me or do you feel like established British artists are developing a little American twang lately? Almost like they need to do so in order to sell records? So its nice to see that when an established artist, like record producer and songwriter DaVinChe, comes back on the scene with a new banger and it's most definitely British.
DaVinChe is back with a track entitled 'Breakdown' and it has DaVinChe written all over it, with his signature strings introducing the track and repetitive grimey beat, I can hear MC's lining up round the block to spit over the track. The 'Breakdown' instrumental is accompanied by a video that reflects the title of the song as DaVinChe ends up on the roof of a building culminating in a 'Breakdown'.
UrbanVoice UK's opinion: DaVinChe hits the spot delivering a track that if you are already a fan, you won't be disappointed. It's refreshing to have DaVinChe back with a new song that is still true to its roots. The videos not bad either.
UrbanVoice UK is proud to present to you TYLER DALEY, a greatly talented artist whom Lisa Maffia (Vocalist from So Solid Crew) recently signed to her record label Maffia Recordz. Here is a little bit about Tyler Daley so that YOU can get yo know him - Enjoy!
TYLER DALEY Tyler Daley formerly known as HoodMan a 27 years old focused, driven, rapper/singer/producer from Manchester, England, with a very unique soulful style mixed with a reggae touch, he is in a league of his own. His meaningful lyrics outline social issues, love stories and everyday life. You may recognise Tyler Daley from The 'UK-Team' with tracks entitled "Ringer Roses" or possibly the feature on a popular TV series called "Dubplate Drama" featuring some of the UK's well known urban acts such as NDubz, Roll Deep, Ghetts, Skepta and many more.
Tyler Daley's talent shines best through his solo material with songs like "Jermaine" that's absolutely magic. After a short spell out of the lime light Tyler is back currently recording with many established artists and legendary acts such as Soul2Soul. Together they have recorded his Hot new single "U Alone"and the Remix with legendary Soul2Soul lead singer Caron Wheeler. Tyler and his team have been on promotional tour for the last 4weeks and already people are talking about the smash hit 'Baby You Alone' - DJ Sarah Jane Crawford BBC1xtra has had it her anthem of the week for two weeks running. In addition he has had features with SBTV and Jo Whiley 'the arts show'. A listed on UNIT FM and with lots of promo lined up including a university tour, Tyler has also played Live at the BBC1xtra Manchester Apollo Live show.... He is ready!! Are you?!!
Here is the HOT, HOT, HOT 'You Alone'. I am very excited for Tyler Daley's future - if you don't know get to know and spread the word to your friends, family, mum, dad, uncle, grandma, your cousin's aunty's boyfriend's dog...
Sounding fresh on the UK urban music scene,Tyler Daley's open and vunerable love lyrics cut right through me. along with his soulful tone. The chilled out reggae style with rippling melody creates an effortless, laid back and timeless finish to the song that resonates through my speakers. UrbanVoice UK gives 'You Alone' an impressive and difficult to get TOP MARKS.
UrbanVoice UK is particularly proud and excited to support and introduce to you this talented UK collective.
Formed in 2005 Coldside Generals have rapidly become the name to watch out for. Born and raised in Manchester Zane, Red and Aitch are collectively a group of MCs, Performers, Producers, Singers, Graphic Designers and Engineers. Making all material themselves from the beats to the mastering, Coldside are a unique, self-efficient urban unit making their mark on any genre they touch. No strangers to performing, Coldside have smashed stages since they started in places like Salford Lowry Centre, Virgin Megastores in Manchester Arndale, nightclubs throughout the entire of North West in Leeds, Bolton, Liverpool, Salford, Castlefield, Manchester Academy and more recently The City of Manchester Stadium, which they were announced Manchester City Sound Winners 2011.
2009 saw the groups first major move into the scene with the debut single release on itunes entitled "In My Life". Smashing sales and getting radio play regularly from BBC and popular urban shows throughout the UK, Coldside have gained thousands more fans, from music lovers, to fellow industry musicians and professionals.
In 2010 the group was back with 2 more singles, ”Ex Man” and “Don’t Stop”, both a smash success and been proving very popular at the last shows the boys performed at and on iTunes.
2011 saw Coldside Generals become Manchester's very first City Sound Winners, since then Coldside have had frequent radio play on Manchester's Unity Radio and Q Radio with Key 103's resident DJ Alex James. Already having recorded a documentary with Key 103 and Manchester City Football club the group will be constantly blogging, documenting and streaming their road to success. References from industry experts, Lee Morrison (Sony Music), Alex James (Key 103 radio, In Demand) and Gary Stein (Key 103 Programming Director) Coldside Generals are to be recognised as the "Next Generation" in music.
Here's what music industry professional Alex James. Bauer Radio’s ‘In Demand’ and Q Radio has to say about Coldside Generals:
In an industry over-crowded with MCs and rappers all shouting for attention, Coldside Generals bring a sense of calm to a frantic market – they’ve got their eyes on success and are grafting to achieve.
The friendship of the lads stands out above all else, they’re unified in what they want to achieve and tight when they perform.
They are able to be themselves without compromise – evident in how they look (the tracksuits should stay) and most importantly how they sound. The content of the raps and the lyrics rises above the menial whilst maintaining a keen eye on contemporary culture and sneaky, savvy celebrity references.
Coldside Generals performed in front of me and three other people in May 2011. They might as well have been performing to an Arena
Predicting big things for Coldside Generals in the years to come, culminating big sales, website hits and reaching out to thousands of new fans, this group is definitely one to look out for in the future... not that you could miss them.
Personally, I like this trio and in an urban music scene dominated by London based artists I think they could put Manchester firmly on the map as a serious contender for British urban music. Let's see if you agree.
Here is an acoustic off the spot video performed at Manchester City Football Club, returning as Manchester City Sound Winners 2011. Hit that 'like' button down below if you are feeling the Coldside Generals.
UrbanVoice UK has also posted another video from Coldside Generals called 'Talk To Me When' under the UVUK Playlist (one of my personal favourites) - Start supporting Coldside Generals today! I truely hope they go far and wish them every bit of success.
Even though it was release earlier this year UrbanVoice UK is loving the beat on this track 'Glistening' by London born and raised group Hood G. The track deserves some time to glisten on this blog as I seem to have it on rewind at the moment. There is something familiar about this track taking me back to about 2003 - 05 with its US Hip-Hop style slow beat and repetitive sped up 'glistening' alongside the soft vocals of group member Alisha. Check out the official video for HOOD G and their track Glistening here on UrbanVoice UK.
UrbanVoice UK presents to you Greasy Geezers vs Caveman and their song released on 4th October ‘Fry You Like Fish @ The Jam’. This act is kind of like Urban/Dance + Urban Wit = Greasy Geezers
Fry You Like Fish @ The Jam is a dance/electro pop adaptation of the 1991 Hip-hop single by Caveman ‘Fry You Like Fish’. With new lyrics and a 2011 urban dance flavour, it’s a totally new song with attitude. In the 1990’s Caveman were a pioneering UK rap group introduced by Tim Westwood. It has been 20 years since the original Hip-hop track was released.
In the early 00’s Greasy Geezers were actually a label working with artists such as DJ Iron and Mathieu Karsenti now music composer for 2009 X-Factor winners Diversity. From 2010 Greasy Geezers diversified to become a production unit that has created a radio friendly urban/dance cut with a hint of that raw street vibe.
The song title suggests humour and you could be right in thinking this, however the sound is almost sinister-like
in its representation of the UK urban flavour. Fry you like fish means ‘something is cooking’ and that is a
growling baseline with catchy hooks ready for the clubs …‘lose the negative’ and ‘get the positive’. It’s a genre synergy of humour, golden rap flow over heavy dance beats.
Greasy Geezers are a production unit with a twist; uniquely they are virally represented as comedic characters online that present all their dance releases. Producers of the track and members of the greasy crew are Videoface whose previous offerings include the tribute anthem for Norman Jay (MBE) on the BBC London 94.9 radio show ‘Half is Mine’ (2005).
Also look out for the music video featuring a comedic performance by Bada Badoo from X-factor 2010.
The MOBO Awards nominations launch party took place earlier this week in London. I can't wait for the real awards ceremony on 5th October, we have such a wealth of British artists at the moment. No doubt I will have a running commentary on the night with who's wearing and winning what.
Check out the list of hopeful nominees below.
Best UK Act
Adele
Chase & Status
Chipmunk
Example Jessie J
Katy B
N-Dubz
Wretch 32
The Streets (Really?, although they might win the award because will be their last ceremony as a group)
Tinie Tempah (Tinie should win this award based on his huge success worldwide)
Best Newcomer
Alex Clare
Ed Sheeran (in my personal top 5 to win)
Emeli Sande (in my personal top 5 to win)
Jamie Woon
Jessie J (in my personal top 5 to win, I'd like to see Wretch 32 win but I think it will go to Jessie J)
Loick Essien
Maverick Sabre
Rizzle Kicks (in my personal top 5 to win)
Yasmin
Wretch 32 (in my personal top 5 to win)
Best UK Hip Hop/Grime Act
Giggs
Rizzle Kicks
Tinie Tempah (I'm going to keep a close eye on this one, It's gonna be real close one but I reckon Tinie Tempah will win)
Wiley (My personal favourite to win)
Wretch 32
Best Video (Can they all win it please?!)
Chipmunk featuring Chris Brown – ‘Champion’
Jessie J – ‘Do It Like A Dude’ (My odds are on Jessie J to win)
Rizzle Kicks – ‘Down With The Trumpets’ (My personal favourite)
Tinchy Stryder featuring Dappy – ‘Spaceship’
Wiley – ‘Numbers In Action’
Best Song
Adele – ‘Someone Like You’
Chase & Status featuring Tinie Tempah – ‘Hitz’
Jessie J – ‘Do It Like A Dude’ (My odds are on Jessie J)
Tinie Tempah – ‘Wonderman’
Wretch 32 – ‘Traktor’
Best Album (This is going to be a tough category)
Adele – 21
Chase & Status – No More Idols
Jessie J – Who You Are
Katy B – On A Mission
Tinie Tempah - Disc-Overy
Best UK R&B/Soul Act
Adele (I don't know why but I've got a feeling that Adele won't win this award)
Dionne Bromfield
Marsha Ambrosious
Mike Hough
Omar
Best Reggae
Alborosie Damien Marley & Nas
Jah Cure
Khago
Mavado (he should sooooooo win this, I just want to hear him say 'gangsta for life')
Best Jazz Act
Denys Baptiste
Gwilym Simcock
Kairos 4tet
Matthew Halsall
Usonic
Best African Act
Cheikh Lo
D’Banj
Fatouma Diawara
Liquideep
Owiny Sigoma Band
Seun Kuti
SMOD
Spoek Mathambo
Vieux Farka Toura
Wizkid
Best Gospel Act
Bobby Bovell
Four Kornerz
Jayess
Junor Garr
Triple O
Right, I am no expert on the who's the next Leona Lewis or the next Chris Brown but I like to help out my fellow UK music artists.
Here is a couple of British vocalists hoping to make it big with their vocal talents. The first video shown below is of DavidB a male vocalist from Manchester. Second up, is the gorgeous female vocalist Morgan Munroe from Leicester, who has featured on UrbanVoice UK before.
I want to hear your opinion on these two young talents. Would they get your vote on the X-factor?
Alright, I for one am excited that it is August bank holiday weekend and with 3 days off work who wouldn't be!? So, I have selected my favourite songs of the moment to start the bank holiday weekend off with a bang!
First up is Crazy Cousinz featuring Omarion with 'Arch Your Back'. That's right the R'nB star from the US of A has teamed up with the mighty funky trio, famous for tracks such as 'I See You' and 'Go'. This has to be one of the biggest UK-US collaborations of this year. Definitely a guaranteed club banger, after having it on replay for the last 3 days I am hooked and I am sure that you will be too - Ladeeezzzz, Arch your back! US viewers I really want to hear your comments about this track. Let us know, don't be shy to post your comment below :).
For the official video click here Otherwise, the audio can be found here on UrbanVoice UK.
Second up, in time for carnival is Ms. Dynamite with 'Neva Soft', It just has a chilled reggae vibe that will get me in the mood whilst getting ready to head out to the Notting Hill Carnival. Speaking of the Notting Hill Carnival Cleo Sol's 'High' has to be up there as well and will be the third track to go in this 'Top Picks' post.
Forth up, it's 'Could Just Be the Bassline' from Artful featuring Kal Lavelle. Artful formerly part of Artful Dodger, the duo that brought you Craig David's Born To Do It album and the garage smash 'Moving Too Fast', is a veteran of the UK urban music scene. 'Could Just Be the Bassline' has a slightly more grown up feel and takes me back to being a teenager blaring vocal garage in my bedroom back in 1999 - 2000. I absolutely LOVE this track.
'Could Just Be the Bassline' is available to buy from iTunes here
My last (but not least) pick is another great collaboration, this time with our recent chart toppers Wretch 32 and Emeli Sande and their 'gift' back to the fans, a track entitled 'Underdog Law'. A heartfelt track with emotional lyrics about the struggles coming up from the underground music scene. What a lovely song dedicated to their fans...how nice are these guys?!
I hope you have enjoyed my selection, have a great weekend, and I will keep you posted on the best in UK music.
A massive congratulations to Wretch 32 who has landed in at number 1 on the official UK Top 40 chart with the haunting Don't Go. Also, this week, Emeli Sande has managed to secure a number 2 spot right behind Wretch 32 with her single Heaven.
Today Chipmunk tweeted "So much REAL talent coming out the UK man... I'm happy to see it!!! Let's lock our country down!!! We can all have long careers I tell ya!"
You know what I couldn't agree more. This year has been a fantastic year for up and coming British artists. I feel that the days of cheesy pop groups/artists which used to taint the UK music chart are fading away in to a thing of the past and genuine, real British talent is being given the chance to shine. Even programmes such as X Factor which highlights the manufactured pop process are beginning to look for real talent with artists that can really sing. I hope the days of Gareth Gates and Steps are officially over and good riddance to them!
This is the first time in UK music history that UK Urban artists are getting the limelight with the likes of Jessie J, Example and Plan B headlining at this years' festivals across the country. For many years we have looked to the USA for good music and I can now say that we have real good music here in the UK with home grown genres like dupstep and grime becoming well established. Not only have these genres become well established in the UK but also the across the continent and even over seas. It looks like the UK urban music scene is headed in a great direction and as Chipmunk stated if we can hold onto the recent musical success nurturing it to help it grow, we will have our own music style that will be internationally recognised and loved ensuring long careers for some.
Wretch 32 featuring Josh Kumra- Don't Go is available to buy on iTunes Emeli Sande - Heaven is available to buy on iTunes
Wrigz, a 24 year old artist from Manchester, UK, is one of my favourite artists from up north. Wrigz has a new tune out called 1Love, which is acoustic in style with slow breathy female vocals coming in at the chorus and conscious lyrics from Wrigz himself. It seems quite appropriate for the UK at the moment so the timing for a song like 1Love couldn't be better. Check out the audio for 1Love by Wrigz below.
Is this the first of many songs that will be written about the London Riot? Bashy a London grime mc and actor has written a true tale of street life in the UK.
During a time when the UK is in uproar with rioting from London to Liverpool, the Street Commentator Bashy steps away from his acting spell to give his voice to the people.
Inspired by the talented Ed Sheeran, Bashy uses True Tiger's dubstep mix as the gritty back drop to express the ever so present frustrations of today's young people.
Listen carefully to Bashy's words. Here is the track entitled Angels Can't Fly by Bashy featuring Ed Sheeran.
From 2010 Greasy Geezers diversified to become a production unit that has created a radio friendly urban/dance cut with a hint of that raw street vibe. 