Does "Shelf Life" in the Music Industry Matter Anymore?

Apparently, the longer shelf life isn't the new thing in music, especially in the hip/hop, r&b world.

What happened to the songs that used to stand out? The songs I could play years after and dance to it as if it just aired for the very first time? 

Since it seems as though artists (not all, but some) are more consumed with what matters now then what will matter and make a permanent dent into the music world, I guess I'll have to stick to the "oldies" but goodies.

And the award for best r&b song for the week goes to:

"So Into You..." for the young lady who just met the guy of her dreams... it was the national anthem.  And even if you were single, it was just something about this song that kept you snapping your fingers, and bobbin' your head to the beat, feeling every bit of it.

(listening to it now, and doing everything I just mentioned)

It's songs like these that make you want to learn every word because they're classy (yet fun and flirty) and they have a powerful meaning behind it where people can relate.  And what a beautiful voice!  I'm so glad that Tamia is planning to release an album this year.  She's so needed in the music world right now. 

This song was released in '98.  Thirteen years later, it still makes me want to two-step.

Nowadays, a lot of the new songs have no real substance; therefore, after its reign, no one wants to really hear it anymore, thus leading to a shorter shelf life.

What type of songs do you prefer?

Feelin' The Beat: John Legend and the Roots Put a Spin on a Powerful Classic

One thing I'm learning to do in this adult life is to really get in tune with myself, who I am, and my purpose.  Sometimes, it's hard, but when you figure out one piece to the puzzle, it makes life easier!

And while it's only a portion  being added to my personal music interests, I'm finding myself more and more connected to old school music, music that my parents used to listen to; ole' skool beats and raspy-sounding voices.  Guitars, pianos and acoustic sounds reaches deep within me, causing me to close my eyes sometimes and just feel the beat.  This is what real music is all about.

Normally, I'm up on my music scene, but I have to give my brother the credit for introducing me to this one (thanks Kap!)

Picture it.  1973 (in my Sophia's voice- The Golden Girls).  Bill Withers writes and dedicates this song, "I Can't Write Left-Handed," to one particular soldier who made it out of war alive, but missing a limb:

Pretty deep, right?  And as a mere reflection of this heartfelt piece, years later, we have a remake of this, with John Legend and The Roots:

Yup, they nailed it. Did you feel it as much as I did?

I think in this generation, we need more soulful music, the kind that tells a story and captures meaningful, respectful and powerful moments.

What's your take on music? Would you like to hear more soulful music like this?

#MusicMonday: Kelly Row's Album Release, 90's Music in Effect

  photo courtesy of  Style Bistro

I'm waiting for the release of Ms. Kelly Rowland's new album, Here I Am, to be released July 26.  When I really like an artist, I'll definitely support and cop the disc. And I think Kelly is well-deserving of this one.  Here first track was instantly catchy one; I can only hope that the album lives up to that hit (it was truly a BIG ONE).

Until then, I think I'll listen to some throwback music, the 90's (whatcha' know about that?).  And since I tweeted about that this morning, one of my co-workers decided to send me an OH So 90's playlist for me to enjoy today.  I was jammin' like it was '92!

For the remainder of the evening, I'll work on a 20-minute exercise regimen (yep, I'm so serious about getting fit), probably a Jillian Michaels' video, that will work my entire body. Then, I'll probably pump up the volume on the 90's jams again until my favorite Monday night shows come on.  

Welp, that about sums it up.  Happy Monday, everyone!