Blues and Soul News

Johnny Otis R.I.P. 28th December 1921 �� 17thJanuary 2012

Johnny Otis, who as a white American bandleader and musician was massively influential on today's black soul music, has died aged 90. Otis discovered many major black soul stars of the day, including the late Etta James. He died three days before she lost her own battle with ill health.

He attracted the nickname, the Godfather of Rhythm and Blues, and signed 13-year-old Esther Phillips as singer for his California Rhythm and Blues Caravan touring show in 1949. His band fronted by Little Esther, had ten top ten R&B hits in 1950.

He scored a pop crossover inÂ�1958, with "Willie and the Hand Jive," later covered by Eric Clapton. In the UK he scored a number two hit in November 1957, with "Ma, He's Making Eyes at Me," later a number one hit by Scottish child star Lena Zavaroni.

While a talent scout for King Records, he spotted the potential of Jackie Wilson, Little Willie John and Hank Ballard at a talent show in Detroit in the â��50s, and signed them to appear in his touring show, the Caravan.

He played drums on, and produced Big Mama Thornton's first recordings, including the R&B hit Hound Dog (1953). He was credited as one ofÂ�the song's composers, but Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller succeeded in having his name removed when Elvis Presley covered the song in 1956, Otis produced the hits of R&B star Johnny Ace. He then signed Etta James. They co-wrote her first hit, "Dance with Me, Henry" (1955).

Otis's "Every Beat of My Heart" was a hit for Gladys Knight in 1961. By the early 1960s, Otis' career was floundering, with the change in musical tastes, including the birth of The Beatles.

Otis was born John Veliotes to Greek immigrants in Vallejo, California. His younger brother, Nicholas, was ambassador to Egypt. His parents ran aÂ�grocery store in a black neighbourhood in Berkeley, and Otis was attracted to black culture. He played side drum in junior high school, and made his professional debut as a drummer in 1939 with the West Oakland Houserockers. He eventually played in touring big bands.

Nat King Cole recommended he move to Los Angeles in 1943 to join Harlan Leonard's jazz orchestra. He backed saxophonist Lester Young and singer-pianist Charles Brown. As a drummer, Otis led his own jazz orchestra from 1945 to 1948. His 1945 recording Harlem Nocturne, got his band bookings across the US, including the Apollo Theatre in Harlem.

He tried and failed, to be elected to the California State Assembly, and joined the Los Angeles County Democratic committee. He served for a decade as deputy chief of staff to Mervyn Dymally, the first black state senator in the west, and an eventual congressman and lieutenant governor ofÂ�California and congressman.

Frank Zappa, a fan of Otis's 1950s recordings, suggested to Kent Records that they should sign him. The album "Cold Shot!" (1969), featured Country Girl, an R&B hit, and critical success. Otis then recorded an X-rated album, featuring proto-gangsta rap braggadocio. Zappa landed Otis and his musicians aÂ�TV appearance that led toÂ�aÂ�performance atÂ�the 1970 Monterey jazz festival.

His revived California Rhythm and Blues Caravan â�� featuring Little Esther and Otis's teenage, guitar-playing son Shuggie â�� was a huge success at Monterey, leading to nationwide and European bookings. Otis continued toÂ�tour and record. He also became pastor for the Landmark Community Church in South Central Los Angeles.

In his long life, Otis had stints as a TV presenter, cartoonist, painter, chef, record producer, DJ, sculptor, and writer.

In 1990, Otis and his wife Phyllis, moved to Sebastopol, California, where they ran an organic orchard. He hosted a weekly radio programme, wrote his autobiography, "Upside Your Head!" (1993) and appeared at festivals. Ace Records have released two CDs devoted to The Johnny Otis Story. He is survived byÂ�Phyllis, two sons and two daughters.

â�� Johnny Otis, born John Alexander Veliotes, musician, born 28 December 1921; died 17Â�January 2012

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Etta James R.I.P. January 25th 1938 ~ January 20th 2012

Etta James, the undisputed Queen of female blues singers, lost her battle with Leukaemia on 20th January, just a few days before what would have been her 74th birthday. The word legend is bandied about far too often in the music world; but it was justified for sure when speaking about Etta â�� affectionately knows as Miss Peaches.

Superstar Beyonce among the first stars to pay public tribute to the fearless Etta. "This is a huge loss. Etta James was one of the greatest vocalists of our time. I am so fortunate to have met such a queen. Her musical contributions will last a lifetime. Playing Etta James taught me so much about myself, and singing her music inspired me to be a stronger artist. When she effortlessly opened her mouth, you could hear her pain and triumph. Her deeply emotional way of delivering a song told her story with no filter. She was fearless, and had guts. She will be missed."

An influence to many modern day soul stars, including Beyonce who played Etta in the movie Cadillac Records, Etta released her final album The Dreamer in November last year, to huge critical acclaim. She overcame a heroin addiction to win six Grammys, and global adoration from fans and her peers.

Adele said that it was buying an Etta James CD when she was 13, which made her want to sing. She names Etta and Aretha as her two favourite ever singers. "If you were to look up the word singer in the dictionary, you'd see their names."

"Everything she sings - you believe her, even if she never wrote a word of it herself. I saw her live in New York not so long ago: Extraordinary."

Legendary Atlantic records producer Jerry Wexler once called her "the greatest of all modern blues singers."

Nile Rodgers added: "When I was a kid, I remember walking all the way to Flash Record Shop in LA to buy a 45rpm single by Etta James. RIP."

Black Eyed Peas frontman Will.i.am wrote on Twitter: "Showing respect appreciation and love for all the wonderful music and joy Etta James brought to the world."

Kelly Rowland said: "Classic. One of a kind. Pure soul. Thank you for gracing us with your incredible talent and presence."

Rihanna tweeted: 'Dear Etta may you rest in peace.'

Bryan Adams wrote on Twitter "Etta James... one of the best voices of all time... RIP".

And there were also tributes from the world of movies and television.

Jessica Alba: 'RIP Etta James u r a legend and 1 of my all time favs -thank you for giving us all the gift of song -what a voice!'

Kirstie Alley: 'At last my love has come along...my lonely days are overâ��.RIP Etta James.

She died from complications from leukaemia - with her husband, Artis Mills, and her sons Donto and Sametto by her side.

She was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2010, and also suffered from dementia and hepatitis C. James died at a hospital in Riverside, California. She would have turned 74 the following Wednesday.

Etta James, heart-wrenching voice graced hits including "The Wallflower," "Something's Got a Hold on Me," I'd Rather Go Blind and the incomparable and much covered (and abused!) classic on TV talent shows "At Last." Her recording of Muddy Waters' I Just Want To make Love To You, has never been bettered. It gave Etta her biggest UK hit, when it charted at number five in 1996, after it was used on a TV ad' for Diet Coke.

She was managed by her long-time friend, Lupe De Leon. This is a tremendous loss for the family, her friends and fans around the world," De Leon said. "She was a true original who could sing it all -Â�her music defied category. I worked with Etta for over 30 years. She was my friend and I will miss her always."

She had a colourful life. Born Jamesetta Hawkins in 1938 in Los Angeles to a 14- year-old mother and unknown father, although she always believed her father was the famous pool and Billiards player Minnesota Fats. Her mother took little responsibility, and Etta was raised by a series of people.

Her booming voice was spotted early on in church, and in 1950 her mother took her to San Francisco, where as a 14-year-old she eventually started the girl group The Creolettes. Singer Johnny Otis â�� who sadly died the very same week as Etta â�� and who was known for "Willie and the Hand Jive," discovered her. She also sang in a group called The Peaches, hence her nickname.

She signed to Chess Records and crossed over into the pop market. Among her recordings were "Stormy Weather," the Lena Horne classic originally from 1933; "A Sunday Kind of Love," from 1946; and, "At Last," a 1941 number that was a Glenn Miller hit.

She entered rehab in the 1970s, but re-established herself with live performances and an album produced by Jerry Wexler. After another stay in rehab at the Betty Ford Clinic - she made a comeback album, "Seven Year Itch," in 1988.

James won six Grammy awards - In 2003, she was given the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award - and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She is also inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of fame. I want to thank God for allowing me to come such a long way, she said at the after being inducted by KD Lang in 1993. I never thought about a hall of fame...I never thought about anything like that.

Having conquered drug addiction in 1988, she began a struggle with her weight â�� in 2002, weighing more than 400lb, and needed a scooter to get around. She had gastric bypass surgery and lost 200lb, which saw her return to performing. James maintained a steady touring schedule, but sometimes sat down on stage, due to bad knees and her weight battles.

"Most of the songs I sing, they have that blue feeling to it. They have that sorry feeling. And I don't know what I'm sorry about," she told CNN in 2002. "I don't!" She was quoted as saying Leonard Chess, the co-owner of her label Chess records, knew she was a junkie and sent her off to rehab.

She was the original bad girl long before most of today's tabloid hell raisers were born. With a reputation for being difficult, which her manager and friend Leon confirmed to CNN before her death. "Etta James is unmanageable, and I'm the closest thing she's ever had to a manager.

"The bad girls had the look that I liked," she wrote in her 1995 autobiography, Rage to Survive. "I wanted to be rare, I wanted to be noticed, I wanted to be exotic as a Cotton Club chorus girl, and I wanted to be obvious as the most flamboyant hooker on the street. I just wanted to be."

I was a street kid, living in rooming houses, she said in 1993. My mother was just 14 years older than me and she had a hard life, too. I was always running away from home, getting in trouble. What motivated me was fear and hard knocks.

For many she lived in Los Angeles, but moved to Inland Southern California to escape the problems of street violence. I was tired of having no place to park my cars, she told The Press-Enterprise in 1993. Having burglar alarms going off all night long, my husband running outside with a gun.

My grandmother had a house in Lake Elsinore and in San Bernardino that we used to go to, said James. And I would come and spend the summer in one of those houses. Lake Elsinore had the magic Indian mud, and the old people with aches and pains would put the mud on them. Well, my grandmother would always say, â��I would sure love to live in Riverside.' And that stuck in my mind. I remember coming down here on a Sunday and looking at the palm trees. And I said to myself, â��This is a pretty place.' And it's still a lot like that. It's got a country atmosphere, and you know everyone at the local stores. She ended her life in the place she loved.

She expressed dismay that her dipping in and out of musical styles, meant she did not have her own identity as a recording artist. They never knew where to place my records, where to put the platter down, James told The Press-Enterprise. Twenty years ago I was considered rhythm and blues. Thirty five years ago, I was considered rock â��n' roll. (Atlantic producer) Jerry Wexler said my problem was that â��I was neither fish nor fowl.' I always basically felt I was rock 'n' roll. But my music had blues and gospel and soul in it because they all came from the same root.

In her final high-profile appearance, a 71-year-old James sang her signature At Last on American TV's peak time reality show Dancing with the Stars in 2009.

"There's a lot going on Etta James' voice," Bonnie Raitt told Rolling Stone in 2008. "A lot of pain, a lot of life, most of all, a lot of strength. She can be so raucous and down one song, and then break your heart with her subtlety and finesse the next. As raw as Etta is, there's a great intelligence and wisdom in her singing."

She is one of the real national treasures, Eagles guitarist Joe Walsh said last year. He recorded an album with James 20 years ago.

In the 1970s, James was forced to tour the club circuit to scrape a living. The Rolling Stones took her on tour in 1978. Her drug habit returned in the 1980s, until her Betty Ford Clinic stay.

In 1997, James spoke with Rolling Stone magazine about her life. "Life's been rough,"Â�she said. "But life's been good. If I had to go back and do it all overÂ�again, I would live it the exact same way."

Earlier this year, news reports revealed that the singer's estate was being contested in a legal struggle between her husband, Artis Mills, and sons Donto and Sametto, who both played in her band.

Etta James. RIP. January 25, 1938Â�â�� January 20, 2012

FOOTNOTE: I saw and photographed Etta James at the Ryman Auditorium circa 2008. The UK's James Hunter was opening for that gig and her US tour. She was in fine voice, and full of spirit. It was a delight to be in the same room as this living legend.

A virus wiped the entire â��C' Drive on my PC, and I was devastated to lose all those pictures of Etta (plus many more treasured shots, including Aretha in Milwaukee - inc dressing room shots - and Joss Stone in Denmark and Leeds).

When I worked with Little Richard and Chuck Berry in 1995 as official photographer, I was in the dressing room with Little Richard at the NEC, Birmingham, and the two promoters who staged the arena concerts. (Fats Domino was also on the bill, but ill that night and not on the show.) I recall Little Richard telling the promoters that he had two very dear friends who had asked him if he could put in a word for them, for some work in the UK. My jaw hit the floor when he named them as Etta James and Johnnie Guitar Watson. The promoters told him neither were a draw at that time!

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Pattie Brooks: It's All About The Music

It's All About The Music is the new cd from Ms Pattie Brooks. The artist enjoyed her biggest success so far during the disco era, where Casablanca Records released her top selling album Love Shook You, before she was featured on the Thank God It's Friday movie soundtrack with her single After Dark."

It's All About The Music contains six song mixes including two each from Rick Gianatos and the Sleaze Sisters. Insiders say this release is â�� just the tip of the iceberg as far as what Pattie's capable of doing vocally. Available to download from iTunes or amazon.com. Or for further information check out HYPERLINK "http://www.pumpinukrecords.com" www.pumpinukrecords.com and pattiebrooks.com.

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Robert Dickey R.I.P.

Robert Dickey, guitarist and singer in the backing group that recorded "I'm Your Puppet," with James and Bobby Purify, has died.

The 72-year-old died in his home town of Tallahassee on Dec. 29. No cause of death was given. He began his career in the '60s, and played on the 1966 Top Ten global hit, "I'm Your Puppet." He was also on the duo's hit "Shake Your Tail Feather."

Dickey had been back in Tallahassee since 1972, where he was a city maintenance supervisor, while singing and playing guitar in church, and a member of the Bethlehem Male Singers.

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Howard Tate R.I.P. 13th Aug 1939 �� 2nd Dec 2011

Soul legend Howard Tate has added his illustrious name to the long list of music greats we lost last year. Tate died at his apartment in Burlington, New Jersey on 2nd December, of complications from multiple myeloma and leaukemia. He was 72.

In the â��60s and â��70s he had several R&B hits on Verve, Atlantic and Epic among others. Probably best known for 1967's Get It While You Can. His partnership with mega-songwriter and producer Jerry Ragavoy â�� who also died in July 2011, after a stroke, aged 80 â�� produced classic soul tracks that were not always a commercial success. But many of their collaborations have since been covered by stars such as Janice Joplin.

After his career stalled, Tate dropped out of the music business and worked in the financial industry, before he got hooked on drugs. He ended up living on the New York streets, and then in a homeless shelter in the late 1980s.

After he got himself clean in the mid â��90s, following a religious conversion, he became a counsellor and a preacher, working with homeless addicts. He was unaware that his Verve recordings had been re-issued on CD, and that soul fans around the world were trying to find out what had happened to him.

A US radio DJ put out an on-air appeal for anyone who knew what had happened to Tate to get in touch. Veteran R&B session player Ron Kennedy heard that appeal, and put DJ Phil Casden in touch with Tate. Casden helped him get his royalties from Verve, and encouraged Tate to sing again.

So in 2001, he took to the stage for a come-back show in New Orleans; his first in over two decades. He continued to perform and record until his death. Jerry Ragovoy got in contact, and the pair worked together again, on his 2003 comeback album, aptly named: Re-discovered. The album got good reviews, was nominated for a Grammy for best contemporary blues record, and gained him lucrative concert work.

He appeared at Madame Jo Jo's in London, and critics lauded his remarkable range and power. His loyal European fan club were thrilled he was back, as many of them thought he had died years ago. He had many star fans including Elvis Costello and Prince.

Tate had six Top 40 R&B hits and cut "Get It While You Can" in 1966, released in 1967 and re-released in '69. Covered by Janis Joplin on her album, Pearl in 1970, becoming a hedonist anthem of the time.

He was born in Georgia, the son of a minister and grew up in Philadelphia. His 1970 album (reissued in 2003), Howard Tate's Reaction, was co-produced by Lloyd Price and Johnny Nash.

He formed a gospel trio with his cousins, when he was ten years old. Gospel group, the Gainors, invited him to join them. They performed at churches all over the Philadelphia area and were signed to Mercury Records in 1955. But they were forced to sing doo-wop. So after five years, Tate accepted the offer to be a vocalist for organist Bill Dogget. He stayed with Doggett for three years. The Gainors had changed their name to Garnet Mimms and the Enchanters and scored a huge hit with Cry Baby (1963.), written and produced by Jerry Ragovoy.

Ragovoy heard a recording of Tate, and encouraged him to move to New York, where he had the pick of top soul session guys, including Paul Griffin, Richard Tee, Eric Gale, Chuck Rainey, and Herb Lovell,

His first single, Half a Man, appeared on Ragovoy's Utopia label and failed to chart. Ragovoy signed Tate to Verve Records. In November 1964, Ain't Nobody Home hit No 12 on the R&B charts, and Tate quit his job on a building site to join Sam Cooke and Wilson Pickett, on coast-to-coast tours. He toured with Aretha Franklin, as her recording of Respect climbed the charts in 1967.

Tate scored a hit with Look At Granny Run Run (1966), before his third single, Get It While You Can (1967.), Stop, was a minor hit in 1968 and later recorded by Jimi Hendrix. Tate, frustrated by his lack of success and money issues, split from Ragovoy. He cut one album without Ragavoy, but the pair re-united when he signed to Atlantic Records and cut the album Howard Tate (1972). He cut one single for Epic. After that failed to chart, Tate worked the tough chitlin' circuit â�� black nightclubs across the US south â�� where he would be one of several singers on stage each night.

He eventually walked away from his career, angry he was not receiving royalties he thought he deserved, and he sold insurance in suburban Philadelphia for the Prudential.

Then tragedy struck. A daughter died in a fire, which started while Tate was asleep. He tried to save the 13-year-old, and had her in his arms but fell through the floor and was dragged out unconscious, by his son. The girl died. His marriage fell apart. He began drinking heavily, then became addicted to crack and ended up homeless in Camden, N.J.

I got rid of my own records, and I didn't listen to other people's records because I didn't want to flash back, he told The Associated Press in 2003. Mr. Tate said he believed it was a call from God that brought him back to an industry he had hated and despised so bad.

At the Roskilde Festival in 2004, he sang "Love Will Keep You Warm" with Swan Lee. The song can be found on Swan Lee - The Complete Collection (2007).

In 2006, Shout! Factory released Howard Tate Live, recorded in Denmark in 2004. Working with producer, arranger and songwriter, Steve Weisberg, Tate recorded A Portrait of Howard, which was released in 2006 on the independent, Solid Ground label. It included compositions by Randy Newman, Nick Lowe, Lou Reed and Carla Bley, as well as songs written by Tate and Weisberg. In late 2007, Tate recorded Blue Day in Nashville with producer Jon Tiven, and this was released in 2008.

He is survived by three children.

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Hubert Sumlin R.I.P November 16, 1931 �� December 4, 2011

Legendary blues guitarist Hubert Sumlin has died of heart failure, aged 80. An influence on many guitar greats including Keith Richards, who paid Sumlin's medical bills in his later years. Richards and Jagger footing the bill for his funeral expenses.

Howlin' Wolf's right hand man and for a short time, sideman for Muddy Waters, Sumlin had a unique eccentric playing style and never used a plectrum, picking the strings with his fingers and hands.
Well, he did use one until his boss, The Wolf, fired him amid one of their regular physical bust ups, and told him to go home and practice without one. When he got his job back, he had found a new sound and tone without a pick, which stayed with him until the end. Also famed for his 1956 gold top, Gibson Les Paul guitar.

Sumlin was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2002 and, after surgery to remove the diseased lung in 2004, performed with an oxygen tank on stage.

In 1970, when Wolf came over to the UK to record The London Howlin' Wolf Sessions with an all-star Brit' band, including Charlie Watts and Bill Wyman from The Rolling Stones and Beatle Ringo Starr, Leonard Chess the label owner, got a call from Eric Clapton, asking if Hubert was going to be coming to play. It was clear the label had no plans for Hubert to accompany Wolf on the trip, until Clapton said if Hubert Sumlin wasn't going to be on the album, nor was he! The label hurriedly got Hubert a Visa within 24 hours, and he was on the â��plane to London.

In June 2002, Hubert Sumlin played a low key, house-full show at a tiny Nottingham blues venue, The Running Horse. The Midland's version of a US juke joint. The gig was booked by blues fan and now Chairman of the British Blues Awards, Barry Middleton. He recalls that amazing night.

It was completely sold out, and packed. A very intimate gig for such a legend. He played for over two and a half hours without a break. His guitar playing was spot on, as were his vocals.

Hubert was a gentleman who liked a pint of Guinness. When I was chatting to him before we opened the doors, it was as if he was psychic when he said, â��before you ask, yes it was 'The Wolf' who knocked my front teeth out when I told him I was going to tour with Muddy Waters.' He said that The Running Horse was the type of venue he loved to play, and it reminded him of playing back home.

The gig was Friday June 28th 2002 â�� amazingly the very same year Hubert was told he had lung cancer. The American band was Per Hanson on Drums (Ronnie Earl), Mudcat Ward on Bass (Otis Grand, "Monster" Mike Welch, Sugar Ray Norcia)Â�& David Maxwell on Piano, (Bob Corretore,Â�James Cotton, Mighty Sam McClain, Bob Margolin.)Â�David Maxwell & Mudcat Ward were nominated for WC Handy Awards at the time.

Hubert enthusiastically chatted to staff, the sound guys and anyone who would listen. According to Barry, he had had many stories about Howlin' Wolf & Muddy Waters," which he loved to tell. He always had a smile on his face. He was a lovely man, and I am very privileged to have been able to put him on The Runner".

Hubert's manager and partner, Toni Ann Mamary, told fans the sad news of his death on Hubert's website, with the headline, â��In Memory.' Our dear friendsâ�� It is with a heavy heart that the worse has come to fruition. My little Hubert is living the life of a real angel. I'm overwhelmed with grief â��.

"I just wanted to share with you, Hubert's loving fans, that Mick and Keith have insisted on picking up the full expenses for Hubert's funeral. God bless the Rolling Stones."

"The Stones â�� they're nice people," Sumlin told the New York Times earlier this year. Musicians such as Richards "can run a ring around me as guitar players", he explained, "but they respect me â�� They came to Wolf's house because, you know, they heard us doing Little Red Rooster."

Keith and Mick issued statements following Sumlin's death:
"Warm, humorous and always encouraging, he was a gentleman of the first order," wrote Richards. "Miss him, yes, but we have his records. All my condolences to his family. One love, Hubert."

"Hubert was an incisive yet delicate blues player," Jagger wrote. "He had a really distinctive and original tone and was a wonderful foil for Howlin' Wolf's growling vocal style â�� He was an inspiration to us all."
Sumlin was born near Greenwood, Mississippi, and grew up in Hughes, Arkansas. As a teenager, formed a band with friend and famed harmonica player James Cotton. Inspired to play the blues when he heard a record by Charlie Patton.

Sumlin told Living Blues magazine in 1989, that he was too young to get into a club to see Howlin' Wolf, so he climbed on to some Coca-Cola boxes to watch him through a window; the boxes collapsed and he fell into the room, landing on Wolf's head on the stage! After the gig, Wolf drove him home and asked his mother not to punish him.
Sumlin played with the legend from 1954 until Wolf's death in 1976. He left briefly to tour with Wolf's rival, Muddy waters which resulted in a fist fight between the 6ft 6in, 300lb Wolf and Huber. The latter telling fans in later years, that Wolf knocked out his two front teeth over the matter. Wolf and Waters also squared up to each other over Muddy's poaching of Hubert, dramatised in the film Cadillac Records, which tells the story of the Chess blues roster. Well worth catching on DVD.

We were like Father and son, although we had some tremendous fights, Sumlin said in a 1994 interview. He knocked my teeth out, and I knocked his out. None of it mattered; we always got right back together.

Wolf's biographer Mark Hoffman wrote; "the two combined musically like gasoline and a lit match." "I love Hubert Sumlin," said axe star Jimmy Page recently. "He always played the right thing at the right time."

When Wolf passed away in 1976, it hit Sumlin hard. He quit music, moved from Chicago to Texas, where he left an impression on the Vaughan brothers, Jimmie and Stevie Ray. He returned to music eventually, and carved a solo career for himself.

Over the next three decades, he toured the US, Europe and Japan and cut several albums. About Them Shoes (2005) focused on his guitar playing and not his voice, star-studded by admirers including Clapton, Richards and Levon Helm.

Sumlin was nominated for a Grammy four times, most recently in 2010, and placed 43rd in a poll to name the top 100 guitarists of all time, by Rolling Stone magazine. Jimi Hendrix, placed at number one, was a huge fan of Sumlin's playing.

Hubert continued to play at festivals, appearing several times at the annual Eric Clapton-sponsored Crossroads festivals. Check out the You Tube footage of him on stage with Clapton, Robert Cray and Jimme Vaughan, with Sumlin turning in some lovely licks on the Wolf classic, Killing Floor. Keith Richards, who had financed Sumlin's latter-day recording sessions and made guest appearances on About the Shoes, considered it an honour to contribute to paying Sumlin's medical bills.

What a pleasure to play with Hubert, Richards said after their last session together. All the top hands are gentlemen.

â�� Many sources reporting Hubert Sumlin's death, mention Smokestack Lightning in a list of Howlin' Wolf blues classics that Hubert's guitar solo featured on. Wrong! When Hubert joined Wolf, he had to earn his place next to the big man, and at first often played second behind Willie Johnson and Jody Williams. It was in fact, Johnson who played the guitar solo on Smokestack Lightning, often mistakenly attributed to Sumlin.

Photo credit: Barry Middleton

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Dobie Gray R.I.P - 26th June 1940 - 6th December 2011

Soul legend Dobie Gray has sadly gone to the big gig in the sky, after losing his battle with cancer. He died at his home in Nashville on Tuesday 6th December, aged 71-years-old. He'd had cancer for some time, but kept the news private. He recently underwent surgery, and complications are said to have claimed his life in the end. Charlie Andrews, Gray's attorney and friend, said that Gray died at home in his sleep early on Tuesday, and had been in declining health for several months.

An icon among Northern Soul fans, Dobie had a massive global hit with Drift Away in 1973, which sold over a million copies and has since been recorded by many stars including Roy Orbison, Rod Stewart and Ray Charles.

The most contemporary version was by American rock-rapper Unkle Kracker, who covered it on his No Stranger to Shame album. The 2003 track, was collaboration with Dobie Gray himself, who featured in the video. It reached number nine on the Billboard Hot 100, and topped the Adult Contemporary chart for a record-breaking 28 weeks. It placed nineteenth in the Billboard year end Hot Singles of 2003.

The rocker/rapper commented on Dobie's passing on his Twitter page. My heart goes out to Dobie's family this evening. RIP Dobie Gray. Thank you for the music. You will not be forgotten. Other stars marking his death, include Hip-hop producer Timbaland, who paid tribute to Gray on Twitter: "RIP Dobie Gray". Charlatans' front-man Tim Burgess said: "Sad to hear of the death of Dobie Gray. Out on the floor. Rest in peace."

Dobie's follow up to Drift Away was Loving Arms," written by Tom Jans, and produced by Mentor Williams. Since covered by everyone from Elvis to Ray Charles. Then he released Northern Soul fave, Out On The Floor in 1966. His first Top Twenty US hit (# 13) was The â��In' Crowd in 1965. The In Crowd was written by Billy Page, based on an idea suggested by Dobie. It reached number 25 in the UK, and covered by many others, including the Ramsey Lewis Trio. That 1965 instrumental version was an even bigger hit than Dobie's. Bryan Ferry resurrecting it in 1974.

Dobie said in the 70s, that he had not received any royalties from his own version of The â��In' Crowd. His biggest record, Drift Away, reached number five in the US chart, but was not released here, even though most UK soul fans have it in their collection. He also gave us "See You at the Go-Go." Citing management problems, his singing career was put on hold when he took a job in the LA production of the musical Hair, for over two years in the late 60s. He also sang and recorded two albums on the Prophecy label, with the band Pollution, during his stint in Hair. Now rare and sought-after collectibles.

He was a versatile singer and song-writer, and had success with material including soul, rhythm-and-blues, country, Tex Mex, disco and gospel. Often described as a singer's singer - a songwriter's songwriter.â��â��He moved from LA to Music City, Nashville in 1978 to be among songwriters, and had success penning hits for other artists. These included Ray Charles (Over and Over, Again), Julio Iglesias (If I Ever Needed You) and George Jones (Come Home to Me). Plus; Etta James, Nina Simone, Brook Benton, Paul Rogers, and a number of other talented Artists. Gray owned a studio in Nashville, Quadrafonic Studios, on 18th Avenue, which is part of what is known as Music Row. It was here that he recorded three albums for MCA Records.

In the 70s, he performed in South Africa only after persuading the apartheid authorities to allow him to play to integrated audiences, becoming the first artist to do so in that country. His popularity in South Africa continued through subsequent concert tours. He had eight gold singles, four platinum albums and an unprecedented nine concert tours in S.A.

After his career was revived by Drift Away, he used his fame to help support political causes. He campaigned for Jimmy Carter in his 1976 presidential race.

Country superstars The Dixie Chicks cut some of his songs on their multi-million selling albums, Dobie guesting at massive US arena shows, singing with them on songs he wrote. They were huge fans.

Dobie honed his strong, soulful tenor voice with years in the gospel choir at the Texas Baptist church, where his grandfather was minister. His early life is a little uncertain. Various sources give his date of birth as 1940, 1942 or 1943. The day is not disputed: Sept. 26th. His birth name was probably Lawrence Darrow Brown, listed in the Fort Bend County Birth Records, as being born in 1940 to Jane P. Spencel and Jethro Clifton Brown. Other sources suggest he may have been born Leonard Victor Ainsworth, a name he used on some early recordings.

He was born into a sharecropper family outside Houston, at Simonton, Texas. (His music publishing company Simonton Music, named after his birth place.) He left Texas in the early 1960s for Los Angeles, to pursue an acting career and using his singing talents to earn extra money.

He met Sonny Bono, then an executive with Specialty Records. Sonny got him a deal with the small label Stripe Records. He made several records under the names Leonard Ainsworth, Larry Curtis and Larry Dennis.

He adopted the name Dobie Gray as advised by Sonny and his new label. His first minor hit, Look at Me, was on the Cordak label in 1963 â�� his seventh release. His new name came from the then-popular TV comedy series, The Many Loves Of Dobie Gillis. But his debut album Look, on the Stripe label in '63, failed to sell.

Dobie never married. His regular songwriting partner George Bud Reneau, shared his house in Nashville for many years, where Dobie had his own recording studio. It is believed he has a surviving brother and sister. It is understood that Dobie willed much of his property and future earnings to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis.

A disco track, "You Can Do It" was Dobie's last Top 40 US hit in 1978. He cut two albums for the label Infinity the same year, but the label went bust and closed. So Dobie quit recording and focused on his songwriting. He re-emerged as a country music recording artist for Capitol in the mid-1980s. In 1997, he released the album Diamond Cuts, including both new songs and re-recordings of older material. Since then, there was Soul Days on the Memphis label in 2011, Dobie Gray: The Ultimate, in 2011 on Universal Hip-O, Songs Of The Season also in '01, on Dobie's own Dobie Gray Productions label. The last release is: Dobie Gray: A Decade of Dobie (1969-1979) in 2005, on UMG/Select-O-Hits.

In 2000, Wigan casino DJ Kev Roberts, compiled The Northern Soul Top 500, which was based on a survey of Northern Soul fans. Gray's "Out On The Floor", a 1966 recording which had been a British chart hit in 1975, was placed in the Top 10.

Ironically, Gray's last website update was in March 2010, where he paid his respects to several deceased stars, including Michael Jackson, Heath Ledger and Patrick Swayze. In a personal message, the singer wrote: Here's wishing all of you the very best of everything that life has to offer. From strength to strength! Live every day to the fullest and stay lifted. Better days are ahead!

Gray released 14 hit singles over a 24-year period, and many of them remain on the play-list of radio stations all over the world, and a staple of Northern Soul DJs nightly offerings. But, the latest "Virgin Book of Hit Singles" describes Dobie Gray as "US, female vocalist (Lawrence Brown)".

In his early years, Dobie's voice was heard on a number of motion picture soundtracks: Uptown Saturday Night, Casey's Shadow, The Commitment and Dick Clark's teen musical extravaganza, "Out Of Sight, among them. In the last few decades, his compositions have been used on many film and TV soundtracks.
Dobie sums up his musical objectives, in his official Bio: "My goal is to create the kind of music that makes memories for my audience - music that they will want to revisit time and again. Songs from the heart!"

Sheffield-based blues and soul singer, songwriter and guitarist Frank White was a friend of Dobie's, having first met him in Nashville in 1991. The pair stayed in touch over two decades. He last spoke to Dobie in the summer, on the telephone at his Nashville home. As he explained: He seemed fine. He was in good spirits. He didn't mention his health at all. I was talking about him coming over here to perform, but he said he had no immediate plans to do so. He said he was working with, or about to work with Michael McDonald on a record. I do not know if that ever happened.

I was in Nashville in 1991 performing and song writing, and a mutual friend told me Dobie had invited me to his home. My wife and I went, and he sat us down at the mixing desk in his studio, played us his latest songs and apologised for the quality. We laughed, as here we were, sat hearing new stuff from our favourite singer, a legend, and he is saying sorry for the quality.

I went to his house again a few years later, about 1996, and then we kept in touch by telephone and letter. He was very open, very friendly, a great singer. Such tone and phrasing. It was a shock to me to be told at the weekend he had gone. It is only a couple of months since I spoke to him. I am very sad.

Frank revealed he had been helping Dobie chase up potential missing royalty payments for tracks featured on various UK compilation CDs. I told him of some CDs I had with him on, and he had no knowledge of them, so he asked me to send him copies, which I did. He asked me to track down any more, and so I began to look out for them and send him any I found.

Dobie used to send Frank new songs he had written, in demo form on cassette tape, for him to select any he wanted to sing and record. He still has those demos, which were recorded at Dobie's home studio. He would also send Frank a copy of any new recordings he had released. There was absolutely no ego to the man. None of that nonsense. He was a very nice, down to earth, gentle man. A huge talent and he will be greatly missed.

He was said to be working on an auto-biography back in 2007/08/09, called "The Other Side Of The Mountain", but it is not known if that book was ever finished.

* I had asked Dobie if he would grant me an interview for Blues & Soul magazine. We were hoping to speak early in the New Year, on the telephone. I began communicating with Dobie a few years ago, and then last year, asked him if he would sing on an album I had been asked to produce. He agreed to do it, much to my personal delight as a huge Dobie Gray fan myself.

He was fishing out songs for me to hear, and had sent me some via email, to see if any were suitable for the project.

I had already used one of the songs he wrote, called Love To Burn, a few years ago when I produced US blues legend Sherman Robertson. I told Dobie I had cut that song of his, which I love, and he asked for a copy which I sent him. Since then, Etta James has recorded it. Dobie told me earlier this year, he himself had re-recorded the song for his next CD.

He was going to sing his part on the track I was producing, at his home studio in Nashville and email me it back to me. Earlier this year, I tried to tempt him to come over to the UK, to allow me to set up some media promotion and live appearances, so he could record his vocal here at the same time.

But he was not keen to leave the US. I now assume he already knew he had cancer then, but did not wish to reveal that as the reason he could not leave the US at that time.

Here is an extract from one of his recent emails to me:

Of late, I've been travelling much more than I care to, owing to ongoing family issues down in Texas and being in the midst of a new CD.

I have had some offers from promoters in the U.K. to come over, but have thus far shied away from. That's not to say that I will continue to do so but it is not yet in the foreseeable future for me.

After some thirty-odd years out there, I have reached the point of seldom leaving the U.S. I would love to see Merry Old England again, though - so you never know. If there is a change of heart on that matter you will be the first to know.

There are many fine Musicians over there and it would be a terrific boost to my career and to my ever-dwindling, well-being. I have been dealing with a bit of depression - nothing very serious, but nevertheless, unsettling...

Talking about his contribution to my recording project, as ever; a modest, unassuming man and artist, he promised: I will try my best to do it the justice it deserves.

He signed off, Blessings, Dobie.

So in the end, I did not get to work with Dobie on the recording, or get to interview him formally before he drifted awayâ��â��â��â��â��

"Give me the beat, boy, and free my soul; I wanna get lost in your rock and roll and drift away." RIP Dobie. Thank you for the musicâ��â��â��â��.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Matt Schofield UK tour news

Award winning Brit' jazz and blues fusion guitarist Matt Schofield may live in Canada now, spending most of his time touring USA and around the globe, but he has not forgotten his homeland fans. Fresh from victory at the 2011 British Blues Awards, Matt is back with a 14-date UK tour.

Kicking off on 2nd November at the Stables, Milton Keynes, the venue founded by the late Sir Johnny Dankworth and his wife Dame Cleo Laine. Matt is joined on the tour by his acclaimed trio. Hammond organ monster Jonny Henderson, and American drummerÂ�Kevin Hayes. Kevin joined Matt last year after 18 years with Robert Cray. Kevin co-wrote a few of Cray's hits, and has also recorded and toured with BB King, Albert Collins, Van Morrison, John Lee Hooker andÂ�a host of other greats.

Matt and his pals take the M1 "oop North" to Sheffield the next day, for a show at the 02 Academy. Then to Fleetwood in Lancashire on 4th Nov, forÂ�the Fleetwoodstock music festival. It is Fleetwood's 175th anniversary, and they celebrate in style, with Matt and his band headlining the Friday night of the festival.

Bonfire night, the guys (get it?) light up the skies in Newcastle at the Riverside, a brand new venue in the City'sÂ�Quayside.Â�Â�Nov 10th, it's Gloucester Guildhall, then Brighton Concorde2 on 11th. Some special guests will be joining Matt from the Brighton Institute of Modern Music. Matt will be holding a master-class at BIMM earlier in the day.

Nov 12th he is in Kent, at the Stag Arts Centre, Sevenoaks. A stone's throw from the M25. Nov 13th sees the band make a welcome return to Lichfield Guildhall, where they have sold out the same venue in the past. Nov 14th they visit The Timepiece in Exeter.

London audiences are not neglected, as Matt and the boys call in to trendy Camden venue, DingwallsÂ�on 22nd Nov, where they promise a "one off special"Â� - featuring The Trio + a horn section, and some very special guests joining the band. Matt keeps very good company and is well respected by Robben Ford, and a host of blues and jazz greats all over the world, so that may well be a night to remember. They warn to get tickets early for that one, so take heedâ��. and your camera.

Nov 23rd Colchester Arts Centre hosts the band, and this too promises to be a decent night out, in a really cool venue, formerly a church, with a nice big stage. Nov 24th is Oxford 02 Academy. Nov 25th they stop off at Selby Town Hall. Nov 26th the tour ends at Clitheroe's, The Grand.Â� A charity-supported organisation has created a cool performance space here. A lot of good blues music happens up that way, as Burnley and Colne are close by, and both host major annual blues festivals.

Guitarists and axe mags globally, all hail this Brit' as one of the greatest players to ever come from the UK. Matt (34) stays put on UK based record label, Nugene Records.Â� The UK blues scene is proud of what Matt has achieved on a worldwide scale. Often compared to his hero Robben Ford,Â�and to Larry Carlton. You can also hear the awesome Meters influence in his work too.

He won Guitarist of the Year in the 2011 British Blues Awards.Â� Jonny Henderson won Keyboard player of the year. Matt has been pro' since he was 18, toured and recorded with Lee Sankey and Dana Gillespie, before forming his own band. In big demand globally, they have headlined major festivals and worked with some of the world's biggest blues and jazz names. During breaks in the UK tour they zoom off to Belgium, Netherlands and Turkey for major shows.

Â�
www.mattschofield.net

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Business as usual & the future is bright say UB40 (WORLD EXCLUSIVE)

Reggae superstars UB40 made news headlines around the globe this week (19th Oct) when it was announced that four members of the band had been declared bankrupt â�� apparently over old business debts they say were inherited when their former management went out of business three years ago.

Sky News went big with the story. Newspapers and media here, and in USA, Jamaica, Canada and around the world splashed the news across the front pages, and at the top of news bulletins. The net is peppered with many stories and forums hot with the shock news. Former lead singer Ali Campbell, who was himself declared bankrupt back in June, was widely quoted by the media about his former colleagues' misfortune. The band and their management officially stayed quiet.

Blues & Soul can now reveal exclusive comments from members of the band and their manager, and confirm they are very much focused on production of their new album and a bunch of new European tour dates next year.

Much of the media reports have wrongly stated it is the the band that have gone bust, when in fact, it is only four of the founder members who are affected. Saxophonist and songwriter Brian Travers, drummer Jimmy Brown, trumpeter Terence "Astro" Wilson, and percussionist Norman Hassan were each "declared insolvent."

UB40 were embroiled in a legal battle earlier this year, where a Birmingham County Court judge gave the green light for tax officials to pursue individual bankruptcy proceedings against five original members over royalty payments. Robin Campbell was the fifth member pursued, but he was not made bankrupt in the final hearing two weeks ago.

The band have been appealing various court hearings and decisions all year, but two weeks ago they finally lost out to the judge's ruling. A lot of the reports this week wrongly suggested the case had been heard in Birmingham in the last few days. The final hearing was actually two weeks ago, but there were no members of the press in attendance to report on the matter.

A Birmingham County Court judge gave the go ahead to begin seizure of assets to help pay off the debt. The bulk of the amount owed was accumulated via the group's former management company DEP International Ltd, which went into liquidation in April 2008. Liquidators are currently entitled to the group's royalty paymentsÂ�, following a July 2011 hearing. In addition to their debts, an undisclosed figure, the reggae stars must also pay the costs of the case, which is believed to be close to Â�60,000.

The band have sold circa 100 Million records in a 32-year career, and had 50+ hits in the UK singles charts. Two number ones in the US, and consistently headlined global tours. After singer Ali Campbell and keyboard player Mickey Virtue left the band in 2008, Ali's brother Duncan took on lead vocal duties ,and joined their brother Robin, who plays guitar. Ali set out on his own as The voice of UB40, with new records and his own live appearances.

A lot has been made of the latest legal issues on the message boards of both the band and their former lead singer, with rival fans bickering, attacking and blaming the other faction. The media have stated they were unable to contact management or the band for comment, and have instead quoted Ali Campbell extensively.

Blues & Soul have obtained a statement issued by David Harper, UB40's manager, on behalf of the band. He says: There have been some inaccuracies reported in national newspapers which we would like to correct. Despite rumours to the contrary, UB40 has not been made bankrupt. Some individual members of the band have been declared insolvent, but not all members.

UB40 wish to assure all of their fans that it is business as usual. To that end, the band will resume the recording sessions for their new album at the end of October, with a view to it being released in early 2012.

Touring plans are also well underway for next year, with dates already scheduled for January & February in Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Holland, Belgium, Switzerland & Spain.

UB40 would like to thank their loyal fans from around the world for their continued messages of support. Amid much mud slinging and accusations from both sides, the band say their problems began when Ali quit in 2008, which they say lost them several million pounds worth of work and put them in the smelly stuff financially, dashing hopes that they could clear debts it is claimed, were left from the previous management's regime.

Ali is quoted in the media as saying he was right to quit over financial issues he says he had flagged up to the band, citing the four members' current bankruptcy proceedings as vindication of his decision. He claims they ignored his warnings and sided with management. The band accuse his camp of shopping them to the media about the recent court decision to hold four of the founder members personally liable for the debts, and make an order that personal assets may be seized by creditors. They also say it was down to him leaving, as to why they ended up in a mess.

Drummer Jimmy Brown told fans on the UB40 message board this week: As usual, it's only partly accurate. And the usual ambulance chasing from our ex-singer isn't helping much either. Let me tell you what REALLY happened with UB40 â��supporting their management.' He goes on to make various allegations about Ali's conduct, and claims Ali was paid more than his band mates, which he said was against their agreement when they formed in the late 1970s, that each member is paid the same.

We gave instructions to our management, that our ex-singer should NOT be given any more than his fair share - which was the equal split that we all agreed back at the beginning. This was when our singer decided to leave. He told us that he could 'earn 10-times more without you lot,' and left.â��â��And the financial difficulties were as a result of our singer leaving. It caused us to lose several million pounds worth of work, and this had a knock on effect of creating a black hole that the band have been working to drag themselves out of.â��â��We tried everything we could, to come to a reasonable deal over the administration of DEP, but in the end we failed.â��â��Now that it has come to a conclusion, it gives us an opportunity to put this all behind us and move on. We've got a new album on the way and we are already booking shows for January next year. So it's a relief to get this over with, now we can concentrate on the future.â��â��As usual, our ex-singer is trying to stick the boot in, and did you notice there was no mention of our ex-singer's own bankruptcyâ��.. nothing to do with the DEP litigation. â��â��.. his case didn't get any press attention, so he's careful not to mention it when he's waving his shroud in the press.

The claim that our case proves he was right all along, is a classic case of putting 2 and 2 together and coming up with 5!

Because Ali Campbell was himself declared bankrupt back in June, he is not subject to the recent ruling over personal assets to clear the band's debts connected to DEP. KPMG insolvency director Wendy Wardell was appointed his trustee. Mr Campbell is apparently due to be discharged from bankruptcy on 27 June 2012.

Ali Campbell told the magazine Accountancy Age at the time of his own proceedings: "This is an old story and at this time I have no comment to make." He has not spoken about his own bankruptcy so far. Jimmy Brown added: A few months back, when the story broke in the press after the court hearing before last, it was because there were several journalists present in the gallery. And the story appeared the day after.â��â��According to our solicitor, there were no journalists present at the final court hearing. Which was over two weeks ago. And the day after, there were no stories in the press. This suggests to me that the press were informed of the story by somebody.

The funny thing is, our problems were created by him leaving. His financial problems started a long time before that. That's why we told our management not to give in to the demands he was making, [behind the band's back].

Fact is, our management was looking after the interests of the WHOLE band. The reality is, the story was leaked to the pressâ��â��â��...And the only quotes given in the article are by him! He has put his own name to the story, and is using it to try and get some sympathy from the publicâ��â��â��

Also, have you noticed that there has been yet another subtle change to the story? â��.the story is now that he was a lone voice of reason amongst his stupid band-mates, who were burying their head in the sand and not facing up to our impending financial doom.

Our ex-singer doesn't mind courting the tabloids over this, it's the only time he gets any press attention. But we prefer to keep our private lives. . . er. . . PRIVATE. It doesn't affect our ability to keep on working, and we've got some exciting stuff lined up.

Ali has also been quoted in the press about not getting an invite to the recent event in Birmingham, when the band went back to the Hare & Hounds pub where they played their first ever gig over 30 years ago, to mark the unveiling of a blue plaque, to commemorate their history and achievements. But the band says it was not up to them who was invited. Jimmy Brown explains: I'd like to say something about our ex-singer claiming the band ignored him, when PRS presented us with the plaque outside the Hare & Hounds. This was a PRS initiative. They approached us about the award, not the other way round.â��â��When our singer walked away from the band, he changed addresses and telephone numbers. We don't have an address or forwarding number for him. He is probably still registered with PRS as an individual. So, if he wasn't informed about the award, that would be down to PRS, not UB40.â��â��It's just another desperate attempt to portray the band in a negative light. And garner some sympathy for himself. He would never have accepted an invitation anyway.

If it was all UB40's fault, why is he bankrupt, and two members of the band are NOT bankrupt?

Brian Travers joined in the debate on a positive note: â��.heartfelt thanks to everyone for your kind regards...Its a minor blip for a few of us, nothing we can't work through...just between you and me, we have loads of dates being booked all over Europe in early 2012, we are finishing a brand new album. Things ain't so bad. The band are happy with the way things are, despite what's happened. We feel good, are enjoying playing & recording together, writing, arranging new stuff which we are all bursting to let you hear...

To which Jimmy replied: 2012 is the year when UB40 do things they've never done before. Not just music and gigs, but there are other irons in the fire that are heating up nicely. But we can't say any more a.t.m.

But I think it was important to have the real story here, for anyone interested enough to want to find out more. Don't think there's much more to be said, except; get ready for 2012!

By Simon Redley

*FOOTNOTE:

Blues & Soul wish UB40 and Ali Campbell the best of luck with their individual career plans, and sincerely wish peace could break out in their divided camps. If either party see the sense in our suggestion of appointing an independent mediator â�� our man Redley is offering - to broker PRIVATE peace talks between them, so they can exist separately without further conflict, we would be more than pleased to offer that opportunity.

We also would encourage all their fans to stop the unpleasant comments on the net, which will not help matters to calm down. Please Ali. Please UB40 chaps. Sort it out NOW for the sake of your fans, the great music - and the sad fact that there are three members of the same family seemingly at war within this sorry situationâ��â��â��Pick up the â��phone or email B&S, and we'll set it up as a strictly off-the-record, confidential meeting, on neutral ground.. Please do it now guysâ��â��..Come on all you true fans of both partiesâ��.tell â��em it makes sense.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

James Taylor to pay tribute to Jimmy Smith with 20 piece big band

Now here's something just a bit special to bring to your attention... If I mentioned the name of the late, and ever so great hammond talent, Jimmy Smith - your ears may just prick-up...

Now in the same breath if told you that James Taylor was going to play a tribute to the man himself with a 20 (yes 20!) piece big band in tow, I think you'd then probably ask me "where and when?" And considering Smith never got to actually play his iconic tracks from his album "Bashing: the Unbelievable Jimmy Smith" live, I think they've picked the right man for the job!

I also hear on the grapevine, James will also in the mood to celebrate 25 years in the business on the very same night, so only comment left to add is "get your tickets fast!"

All of the above can be witnessed on a special hammond night of delight on November 25 at brand new luxurious venue Under The Bridge, Chelsea.

See you there!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Free ticket giveaway to see Charlie Wilson and Kenny Burke @Indigo

To celebrate Blues & Soul's return to print Ultimate Boogie Nights have given a us stack of free tickets for funk/soul legends Charlie Wilson (The Gap Band) and Kenny Burke (Five Stairsteps) at the IndigO2 on Friday September 16.... DJs on the night will be DJ Bigger, Bobby & Steve, James Anthony (Solar Radio), Rudy Ranx.

Charlie Wilson will be performing 70's disco classic hits such as 'Oops Upside Your Head', 'Outstanding' and 'Party Train'. He will also be joined by Keni Burke, member of the 70's group the Five Stairsteps. He will be performing some of their hits including 'You Waited Too Long', 'O-o-h Child', 'From Us To You', plus his solo hits including 'Rising To The Top', 'Hang Tight' and 'From Me To You'. There will also be an after show party until 2am where our DJs will be playing the very best soul, disco and funk hits!

TO APPLY: CLICK HERE TO ENTER
Please include your full name, phone number, address and if you require 1 or 2 tickets. Title the subject of your email "FREE TICKET OFFER"

All successful applicants will be emailed and be told they have been allocated tickets. If you do not hear from us, please assume you have been unsuccessful.

Winners will be drawn @midday on Thurs Sep 16th and notified the same day.

PLEASE NOTE:
Availability is limited and will be given on a first come, first served basis. TWO free tickets are allowed per application If your application is successful your name will be added to the guest list.

To collect your tickets you will need to make your way to the main O2 box office and state your name, and show some photograph ID.

IndigO2 doors open at 7pm and the show should start around 8pm

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Esther Gordy Edwards dies at the age of 91

Motown executive Esther Gordy Edwards has died at the age 91. Edwards, along with her brother Berry Gordy Jr, shaped the legendary Detroit record label making it the iconic musical landmark it is today.

A Motown executive for nearly three decades, she held various posts including; senior vice president, corporate secretary and director of Motown International Operations. One of her jobs was to help filter the instantly recognisable "Motown sound" to audiences all over the world. Other job role/s would see her work closely with household names such as; Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, Smokey Robinson and Marvin Gaye amongst others - many citing Edwards as a "mentor figure" at an early part in their careers.

Her fastidious nature would become vital as Edwards would go on to prove pivotal in helping to preserve Motown's legacy/maintain its legendary status, turning the label's original Detroit headquarters into a museum. She attempted this as the rest of the Motown clan left for the dizzy heights of California (1972), preferring to stay behind to set up/preserve Motown history/memorabilia. This would include saving famous recording area Studio A and setting up Motown museum "Hitsville" on West Grand Boulevard (1985).

Edwards was born in 1920 in Oconee, she was the eldest of eight children. She married Robert Bullock (son, Robert Berry Bullock). She later married state Rep. George Edwards (step-mother to his son, Harry Edwards)

A STATEMENT FROM BERRY GORDY JR

Today our family mourns the loss of our beloved Esther Gordy Edwards.

Esther Gordy Edwards was a top Motown executive, businesswoman, civil and political leader, who received numerous awards, commendations and accolades. She was the most educated in our family and was the go-to person for wisdom in business.

Whatever she did, it was with the highest standards, professionalism and an attention to detail that was legendary. She always came out a hero. Esther wasn't concerned with being popular. She was dedicated to making us all betterâ��the Gordy family and the Motown family.

Esther turned the so-called trash left behind after I sold the company in 1988 into a phenomenal world-class monument where Hitsville startedâ��The Motown Museum.

She preserved Motown memorabilia before it was memorabilia, collecting our history long before we knew we were making it. She nurtured and held it together through the years, protecting the Motown legacy for generations to comeâ��which is only one of the reasons people all over the world will remember and celebrate Esther Gordy Edwards.

Despite my sorrow, I will proudly continue to honor and celebrate her. She will always be my big sister and she will forever live in my heart.

Berry Gordy, Jr. and the entire Gordy Family
Founder of Motown
August 24, 2011

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Motown legend Nick Ashford dies at the age of 70

Such sad news again. After battling against throat cancer, Nick Ashford died in a New York hospital with his family at his bedside, on 22 August.

Nick, and his wife Valerie Simpson, were responsible for composing and recording some of soul music's greatest hits and endearing anthems. Their work at Motown is well known via recordings by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, Diana Ross, Gladys Knight and so on, while others like Chaka Khan, Ray Charles and Whitney Houston also benefited from the couple's immeasurable talent.

Of course, the song writing legends enjoyed their own recorded success, highlighted by Solid in 1984, which followed their multi-million selling albums Street Opera (recently re-issued) and High Rise.

Nick is survived by his wife and their two daughters Nicole and Asia, and our sincere condolences go to them at this very sad time.

Sharon Davis will be paying tribute to Nick Ashford very shortly.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Win a pair of VIP tickets to House Rules Bank Holiday special @Plan B

Ok, here's the blurb from the peeps at House Rules...

August Bank Holidays in London are world famous, and our Plan B road-blocks are not far behind. Last year was a complete sell-out and this promises to be no different, as we welcome US star and Swedish House Mafia favourite Max Vangeli to House Rules, one of the hottest young producers on the planet right now. Add to that Cream Ibiza resident Gareth Wyn and a very special guest appearance from Norman Jay MBE on the eve of his Good Times Notting Hill Carnival extravaganza. Are you guys ready?!

Now you see why we didn't touch a drop of this delicious preview for this HUGE 'must attend' event... And please heed our warning, THIS WILL SELL OUT! So get your tickets pronto...

We have two pairs of VIP tickets to give away and you can win a pair by answering this simple artist related question...

Can you name the Notting Hill Carnival sound system which Norman Jay MBE made famous and coincidentally celebrates it's 30th Anniversary this year?

A) GOOD TIMES
B) GOOD CHIMES
C) FOR HE'S A JOLLY GOOD FELLOW

ANSWERS & ADDRESSES ALONG WITH PHONE NUMBERS PLEASE TO: competitions@bluesandsoul.com AND don't forget 'HOUSE RULES' in the subject box.

EVENT ESSENTAL INFO:

HOUSE RULES PRESENTS... BANK HOLIDAY SPECIAL

DJ LINE-UP:
MAX VANGELI (Size Records)
GARETH WYN
& Very Special Guest
NORMAN JAY

Plus:
David Griffiths
Rob & Dave Marchant
Lee Smith
Umberto Giannini
Haran De Lucas

PLAN Bâ��
418 Brixton Road
â��London
SW9 7AY

â��â��9pm - 6am (at least)

Brixton Tubeâ��

Â�12 Advance from ResidentAdvisor.net & Ticketweb.co.uk
Â�15 Door / NUS Â�10
moguai.com
Facebook/maxvangeli
normanjay.com
garethwyn.tv
www.houserules.tv

Join our Fanpage
facebook.com/houserules

For a clue to question see below...

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Win a chance to remix a Nick Pride & the Pimptones track

Nick Pride & The Pimptones recently joined Italian label Record Kicks for the release of debut album 'Midnight Feast Of Jazz' (available on CD/Mp3 and Limited Edtion vinyl LP). To celebrate that fact RK is giving you the chance to show off your production skills with a remix competition of single 'Lay It On the Line' feat. Zoe Gilby".

So DJs and producers out there pay close attention as the winner will get their work released on the upcoming Nick Pride & The Pimptones album 'Midnight Feast Of Jazz Remixed' alongside producers such as Smoove, Diesler, Soopasoul and many more - as well as being included in the next volume of the Mo' Record Kicks compilation. Whilst enjoying airplay on Italian national radio show 'Popcorner' (Radio Rai 2) and scoring a bunch of RK releases!!! For complete contest rules and reg's + where you go to download the song parts, simply go to the Record Kicks and good luck!

The soundcloud player with the track to be remixed is the following:
Sound Cloud

GOOD LUCK!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Amy Winehouse found dead

27 year old superstar singer and 5 times Grammy winner Amy Winehouse has today been found dead at her house in Camden, North London. Paramedics were called to the singers house at 3.54pm but were unable to save the singerâ��

Police are treating the incident as "Unexplained," but the cause was thought to be drug related. A police statement said: "Police were called by LAS to an address in Camden Square shortly before 4:05 pm (1505 GMT) today, Saturday 23 July, following reports of a woman found deceased. On arrival officers found the body of a 27-year-old female who was pronounced dead at the scene."

The singer had recently cancelled a comeback tour after a disastrous opening performance in Serbia on June 18, Winehouse was said to be too drunk to sing and was booed continuously. The singer could only mumble some of the lyrics and failed to follow her band.

Her last public appearance was to support Dionne Broomfield who was performing at the Roundhouse as part of the iTunes festival. She joined her Goddaughter on stage and danced around while encouraging the audience to buy the singer's new album.

Winehouse's career, though checkered to say the least, brought the singer high acclaim through her first UK album 'Frank' in 2003 (3 x's platinum in the UK). And her masterpiece 'Back To Black' reached number one in Britain and number two in the US charts, going six times platinum in the UK and double platinum in the United States.

Tributes have already started to pour in from both friends and celebrities including:

OutKast's Big Boi found comfort in remembering other singing idols who died young:" Kurt Cobain, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, Jimi Hendrix and now Amy Winehouse. All died aged 27. RIP to you all."

Kelly Osbourne tweeted that she had "just lost 1 of my best friends" and fellow singer Lily Allen said Amy Winehouse's death was "beyond sad."

LeAnn Rimes, the country singer, said "RIP Amy Winehouse. So sad to see such a talent gone and her life end in tragedy.

Rihanna, 23: Dear God have mercy! I am sick about this right now! I am genuinely heartbroken about this.

Usher, 32: I'm so sad to hear the horrible news of Amy Winehouse's death. I'm so happy I knew you Amy. Rest well. Gone too soon. We'll miss you!

The managers of the singer's favourite pub,the Hawley Arms in Camden, told Sky News they were "devastated, she was a great friend."

Josh Groban, 30: Drugs took her gift, her soul her light, long before they took her life. RIP Amy.

Drew Lachey, 34: I just heard about Amy Winehouse. Why is it that some of the most talented people seem to have the most demons? She'll be missed.

Jessica Alba, 30: So sad about Amy Winehouse -- she was so talented. Really tragic.

Ricky Martin, 39: I just found out. I feel pain. I feel anger. Rest beautiful girl rest. You are free! RIP Amy.

Nicki Minaj, 28: Please tell me Amy Winehouse didn't die. Is this some sick joke?

Sophia Bush, 29: This Amy Winehouse news is just so sad. To anyone struggling with addiction, please, please, please seek treatment.

Joel Madden, 32. RIP Amy. Your voice will live forever.

Kim Kardashian, 30: I just heard the news that Amy Winehouse passed away. What a true talent. I pray she's in a better place and at peace.

Demi Moore, 48: Truly sad news about Amy Winehouse. My heart goes out to her family. May her troubled soul find peace.

Billy Corgan, 44: Sad to hear about Amy Winehouse. I mourn any time one of our own passes on. A tragedy, no

Demi Lovato, 18: So sad. Unfortunately the world lost an incredibly talented woman to such a powerful disease: addiction. RIP.

From guitarist David Navarro came: "My God! So sad to hear about
Amy Winehouse! My deepest condolences to her friends and family and fans. You will be missed Amy xoxox''

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Win Stax (with Eddie Floyd) @299 tickets

The place to be on Wednesday July 27th is The Venue @229 Great Portland Street. There you will find none other than Stax royalty Mr Eddie 'Knock On Wood' Floyd AND Steve Cropper and Duck Dunn, members of Stax very own Booker T & the MGs.

These guy's have played with everyone from Otis Redding to Sam & Dave, from Wilson Pickett to of course Eddie Floyd, to name but few... So as you continue to check their sparkling credentials, may I also mention that Cropper also wrote/co-wrote such legendary tunes as (huge breath): â��In The Midnight Hour', â��Green Onions', â��Soul Man', â��Time is Tight', â��Soul Limbo' (BBC television's "cricket theme"), â��Knock on Wood', â��(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay' - OK, I'll stop there! But I think you get where I'm coming from.

You can expect to hear all of these monster STAX hits and much, much more from this dynamic Southern Soul label. Completing the line-up on the evening and keeping things in the STAX family, Lester Snell from Issac Hayes' original band, who will be on Hammond B3 AND Steve Potts on drums, who replaced the late great Al Jackson in the MGs over 30 years ago.

If you would like to win a pair of tickets to this premier soul event, just answer this Stax artist related question...

The famous Stax logo is...

A) CLICKING FINGERS
B) CLAPPING HANDS
C) WINKING EYE

ANSWERS & ADDRESSES ALONG WITH PHONE NUMBERS PLEASE TO: competitions@bluesandsoul.com AND don't forget 'STAX' in the subject box.

EVENT INFO:

Date: Wednesday July 27

The Venue
229 Great Portland Street
London
W1W 5PN

Tickets: Â�22 in adv... Â�25 on the door.

Other info:

NUTS DJ team + support act TBA soon, make sure you grab a ticket now as this show will sell out FAST!

For more info on this event 229thevenue

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Win tickets to see Janet Jackson

The youngest of the Jackson clan, Janet Jackson, touches down in the UK to present a very special set of performance's on June 30, July 2 and 3. The show is called 'Number Ones: Up Close & Personal' and you could win tickets right here...

Five time Grammy award winner Janet Jackson will play three dates at the Royal Albert Hall, her first tour in three years. The blurb sent our way states..."This tour will differ from her previous concerts as Janet will be performing in a much more up close and intimate setting - which will allow the audience to see her like never before." ...Sound good? Yep, I agree.

They continue... "Each show around the world will offer something different to Janet's performance, so NO show will be the same. Janet will perform music exclusively from her highly acclaimed â��Numbers Ones' album - featuring 35 number one hits and the tour will be performed in 35 global cities." Niiiiice! Right then, not more we can add really... Oh yeah except...

Do you want to win a pair of tickets? lol (We have two pairs to give away) If you do want to win a pair of ticket's to one of THE shows of the year, just answer this artist related question...

What was the name of Janet's 1986, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis infused, and some say one of the albums of the 80's? Was it...

A) CONTROL
B) CONCORD
C) CONDOR

This competiton is to win ticket's for Janet Jackson's July 3rd show only - winning ticket's cannot be transfered to any other tour date.

ANSWERS & ADDRESSES ALONG WITH PHONE NUMBERS PLEASE TO: competitions@bluesandsoul.com AND don't forget 'JANET JACKSON' in the subject box.

FULL DETAILS:

VENUE: Royal Albert Hall

DATE: June 30th, July 2nd, July 3rd

TICKERT INFO:

ticketline.co.uk 0844 888 9991

royalalberthall.com / 0207 589 8212

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Stax show comes to London this July

Historically the Stax label has a prolific record (excuse the pun) when it comes to producing hit's and hit making artists'. Now you can see three of those truely great artist's as they play a one-off show in London on July 27...

The place to be on that evening is The Venue, 229 Great Portland Street. The artists concerned are none other than Eddie 'Knock On Wood' Floyd AND not one, but two members of Stax house band/Booker T & the MGs + they were also original member's of the Blues Brothers band - messieurs Steve Cropper and Duck Dunn.

These guy's have played with everyone from Otis Redding to Sam & Dave, from Wilson Pickett to of course Mr Eddie Floyd, to name but few... So as you continue to check their sparkling credentials, may I also mention that Cropper also wrote/co-wrote such legendary tunes as (huge breath): â��In The Midnight Hour', â��Green Onions', â��Soul Man', â��Time is Tight', â��Soul Limbo' (BBC television's "cricket theme"), â��Knock on Wood', â��(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay' - OK, I'll stop there! But I think you get where I'm coming from.

You can expect to hear all of these monster STAX hits and much, much more from this dynamic Southern Soul label. Completing the line-up and keeping things in the STAX family is Lester Snell from Issac Hayes original band on Hammond B3 and Steve Potts on drums, who replaced the late great Al Jackson in the MGs over 30 years ago.

Event info:

Date: Wednesday July 27

The Venue
229 Great Portland Street
London
W1W 5PN

Tickets: Â�22 in adv... Â�25 on the door.

Other info:

NUTS DJ team + support act TBA soon, make sure you grab a ticket now as this show will sell out FAST!

For more info on this event 229thevenue

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Win a tickets per week to Sister Sledge, Gwen Dickey, Kenny Thomas & Jaki Graham

Sister Sledge (with a full band from Philadelphia), Gwen Dickey, Kenny Thomas and Jaki Graham are all set to make a live appearance as part of Soul Odyssey presents... at the Forum, in London's Kentish Town on Saturday August 27th - and you can win a pair of tickets to see these legendary acts each week up until the event...

It's an August Bank Holiday Saturday show to remember as the HMV Forum comes alive for this special show. AND if that out of this world live line-up wasn't enough, the hosts of the evening will be none other than legendary soul DJ Greg Edwards and Davis "the kid" Jensen... This special night doesn't just stop there, ohh- no! As THE best Soul, Disco, Boogie + Rare Grooves will be played up until 2am by none other than B&S' very own DJ Bigger and also in DJ'ing attendance will be Mike Gee, David Bailey and Richie Hill! ...NICE!!

For a flavour of what to expect from these legendary live acts...

Sister Sledge will be performing in the UK for the first time since 2009 with hits which include: â��We Are Family', 'He's The Greatest Dancer' and â��Lost In Music'

Rose Royce lead singer Gwen Dickey will be performing hits including â��Car Wash', â��Is It Love You're After', 'Love Don't Live Here Anymore' and â��Wishing On A Star';

Kenny Thomas will be performing many hits including 'Thinking About Your Love', 'Best Of You' and 'Outstanding'

UK music legend, Jaki Graham will be performing hits which include: â��Could It Be I'm Falling In Love', â��Set Me Free', 'I Want To Thank You' and â��Round and Round'.

To be in with a chance of wining a pair of tickets to this must attend event, please answer this Soul Odyssey event related question...

Sister Sledge had a massive 1985 UK number 1 hit with which song about their postman (remember the video?) Was it...

A) Frankie
B) Georgie
C) Sidney

ANSWERS & ADDRESSES ALONG WITH PHONE NUMBERS PLEASE TO: competitions@bluesandsoul.com AND don't forget 'SOUL ODYSSEY' in the subject box.

The winner will be the first correct entry drawn out of our metaphorical hat this FRIDAY (July 22nd) AT 12 NOON. The winner will be notified the same day... THEN a new question will be set on the following MONDAY to be drawn once again the folowing FRIDAY at, you guessed it, NOON... and so on untill the day before the event on August 26th.... (With the event being on the 27th.)

GOOD LUCK!

SOUL ODYSSEY FULL SHOW DETAILS:

LIVE IN CONCERT: Sister Sledge :: Gwen Dickey (Rose Royce) :: Jaki Graham + After party with DJ Bigger, DJ Greg Edwards + special guests.

DATE: Bank Holiday Saturday 27th August

TIME: 8PM-2AM

VENUE: HMV Forum, 9-17 Highgate Road, Kentish Town, London, NW5 1JY

TICKET INFO:
Early Bird tickets Â�25 + BF (available until Sun 13th March).
Standing Â�32.50 +BF
Balcony Â�42.50 +BF
VIP Â�75 + BF (seating, vip lounge & after party access).

ONLINE TICKETS:
ticketmaster.co.uk 08448440002
hmvtickets.com 08432210100
seetickets.com 08712301097
ticketmania.co.uk 02085550044

TICKET OUTLETS:
Crazy Beat (Upminster, Essex) 01708 228678
Soul Brother (East Putney, London) 0208 8751018
Sounds of the Universe (Soho, London) 0207 7343430

TUBE: Kentish Town (Northern line)

OTHER USEFUL INFO:
soulodyssey.co.uk
meanfiddler.com

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Ms Dynamite set to Rock the Belles

Here's one to add to your diary's on Friday June 24 (then last Friday's of every month) @East Village, Shoreditch. The night is called Rock the Belles and that's exactly what they plan to do! This particular event on the 24th brings the talent's of Mercury music prize and double BRIT Award winner, Ms Dynamite - PLUS top Dj'ing action in the shape of Emily Rawson and Fearney.

Also for you delictation... There will be complimentary manicures courtesy of nail boutique du jour, Wah Nails, free Cupcakes (OK I'm there!) by Eleni, hair from Feather Child AND giveaways glore from the likes of Jeepers Peepers Sunglasses, Trapstar Clothing and Ltd Watches. Beats sitting in watching Sex And The City II again I suppose!?

There's something for everyone as the sounds on the night will be a mixture of House, Future Garage, Hip-hop, Dubstep and Electro through to 90's R&B. Also, if that wasn't enough, there are performances from three hotly tipped acts of tomorrow; Jay Brown, Bex and Natalie Ferrol. Niiiiice!

FULL ROCK THE BELLES DETAILS BELOW:

DATE: Friday 24th June
EVENT: Rock the Belles

ARTISTS: Ms Dynamite, Jay Brown, Bex and Natalie Ferrol
DJ's: Emily Rawson, Fearney, Steffie and Ray.

VENUE: East Village, Shoreditch
ADDRESS: 89 Great Eastern St, London, EC2A 3HX

TIME: 9pm-3:30am
PRICE: Â�7 advance, Â�10 door

Don't forget, it's the LAST FRIDAY of every month!

See you there!!!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

The Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival - still the longest running Jazz Festival in the U.K.

The Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival has reached its 33rd year! From Friday 22 July to Sunday July 31, Edinburgh hosts a diverse and exciting range of high quality jazz and blues events, with an emphasis on creative projects, special one-offs, UK exclusives and world premieres.

This year's Festival brings musicians from India, Belgium, Luxembourg, France, USA, Sweden, Brazil, Denmark, England, Russia, Italy, Norway, Germany, Venezuela, Holland and of course Scotland, to play across the City's venues â�� from small jazz clubs to major concert halls. Exciting new locations this year include a glamorous trio of venues in the Spiegel Village and clubbers favourite, The Bongo Club.

Amongst the highlights are stars such as Jack Bruce, Courtney Pine, Robert Cray, Curtis Stigers, Ken Peplowski, Leroy Jones and Trombone Shorty. There's a nostalgic homage to the music of Stan Getz; a strong contingent of musicians from New Orleans; collaborations with India and Italy; a spotlight on the burgeoning Swedish jazz scene (including Magnus Ostrom's Band, and Lina Nyberg singing offbeat West Side Story); and nurturing our own exciting talent, there's an excellent Scottish Jazz Expo line-up.

The opening weekend includes the ever-popular Mardi Gras in the Grassmarket - enjoy three hours of non-stop music on multiple stages, including Fraser Speirs and Eddie Walker, Lorna Reid, Laurie Chescoe, Hamish Mcgregor's Jazz & Co, Rosy Blue's blues band, and Royal Park Rent Party.

Courtney Pine kicks off the Festival and the fantastic singer & saxophonist Curtis Stigers closes ten days later. Over 90 events across 12 venues cover all jazz styles and lots of blues. The Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival may be 33, but it's as current and vital as ever.

edinburghjazzfestival.com

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Win a copy of 'Brandy & Ray J: A Family Business' album

The new album from Brandy is definitely a family affair, featuring bother Ray J and parent's Willie & Sonja Norwood. This unique album marks the first time this mega talented family have recorded together - and you can win a copy of Brandy & Ray J: A Family Business (Rhino) right here...

Inspired in essence by their VH-1 reality show (plays on Sundays) of the same name, the album is a collection of duets, collaborations and solo performances. The CD's first single, 'Talk To Me,' first hit the charts at the beginning of the year and subsequent releases are sure to go the same way as the production credits read like a whos who in the music world.

If you would like to win a copy of this superb album, please answer this artist related question...

Brandy had a HUGE (double platinum in the U.S) hit in 1998 when she dueted with Monica - can you tell us the name of that song, was it...

A) THE BOY IS YOURS
B) THE BOY IS MINE
C) THE BOY IS A WASTE OF TIME!

ANSWERS & ADDRESSES ALONG WITH PHONE NUMBERS PLEASE TO: competitions@bluesandsoul.com AND don't forget 'BRANDY' in the subject box.

GOOD LUCK!

ALBUM INFO:

Track listing
1. Family Business (aka Family Business Theme) â�� Brandy, Ray J., Willie & Sonja Norwood
2. Turnin' Me On â�� Ray J
3. Talk To Me â�� Brandy, Ray J & Willie Norwood Sr.
4. My Family â�� Sy'rai & Rain Smith
5. Lifeguard - Brandy
6. Ready to Roll â�� Ray J featuring TKO
7. Sonja, Sonya, Sonia â�� Willie Norwood Sr.
8. Gone â�� Tasha Scott
9. I Don't Care - Brandy
10. Home Grown - Willie Norwood Sr.
11. Epilogue - Sonja Norwood

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Street Sounds UK Fresh Reunion

It was 1986 when Street Sounds first brought us THE finest new electro/hip-hop/R&B tunes known to man! (sorry or fly girl!!). This label not only set the bar in it's chosen genres, but raised it time and time again. Now 25 years later (hasn't time flown!?) on July 16 this iconic independent has announced, what has to be one of THE events of the year, a 25 year anniversary reunion at London's Scala.

25 years packed into one night, how they gonna do that you ask? Well, with the help of some true greats who made their mark via the Street Sounds medium. I'm talking about live perfrmances from the likes of legendary performers Nucleus, Captain Rock, The B Boys and Grand Mixer D.ST for starters... and with more hip-hop heros and electro all-stars set to be announced, any one of the aforementioned artists are worth the gate money to this event alone.

On the new-electro tip Darxid, LektroiD & Xidus Pain are set to make appearances, while the R&B field is represented in full with the creme of new and emerging talent that has been brought to you recently on the Street Sounds double R&B Street Anthems Vol.1 album.

So apart from the plethora of talent in attendence, what else should you look out for on this night? Well how about B-Boy battles, OR upstairs in the balcony bar - a selection of DJs playing various Street Sounds genres from classic â��Anthems', OR In the large foyer - a Street Sounds Memorabilia and Graffiti Exhibition, OR Street Sounds Wall Of Fame - all those who purchase a ticket will be sent an email with the option to write about their own personal memories of Street Sounds and share photos and memorabilia... Enough?

lol, yeah almost! There's just time to tell you the whole night will be filmed, so dress to impress, as you may want to show the grand kids how cool you were back in the day!

We suggest you don't take too long to purchase tickets for this one as tickets will be in short supply because of the size of venue and the scale of this event.

See you there!

Video... what you can expect on the night!:)

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Beverley Knight 'Soul UK' release news

One of Britain's finest soul vocalists releases her 7th studio album on 27 June next. Titled 'Soul UK', it's destined to be the summer soundtrack for 2011, as it pays homage to the songs that inspired Beverly before she hit the music scene during the nineties.

All the personally chosen tracks played a significant role in her upbringing, and she now publicly acknowledges those artists who inspired her most, ranging from Loose Ends, George Michael and Jamiroquai.

The first lifted single will be Junior's 'Mama Used To Say' on 20 June, while the album contains, among others, her versions of Heatwave's 'Always And Forever', Jaki Graham's 'Round And Around', and Princess' 'Say I'm Your Number One'. Meanwhile, a promo version of Soul II Soul's 'Fairplay' is available to the media, featuring Jazzie B on the introduction.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Wretch 32 tour news

Huge act and one of our ones to watch this year comes the invincible Wretch 32, as he announces his first headline UK tour which will be coming to a venue near you this October...

After first release 'Traktor' placed the artist firmly in the spotlight, new track 'Unorthodox' (featuring Example) finds itself heading in exactly the same direction and will surely mean more acccolades are to come for this rapper's rapper. Devlin calls hiim 'The Metaphor Man' and before his mainstream sucess he was a HUGE underground artist; collaborating with Chipmunk, Wiley and Mike Skinner to name a few. ...Just watch him go as 2011 is shaping up to be the year of Wretch 32!

Our advice... get your ticket early and see him now before it triples in price.

FULL TOUR VENUE DETAILS:

Sunday October 16: Glasgow, O2 Academy
Monday October 17: Newcastle, O2 Academy
Wednesday October 19: Manchester, Academy 3
Thursday October 20: Liverpool, O2 Academy
Friday October 21: Sheffield, Plug
Saturday October 22: Leicester, O2 Academy
Sunday October 23: Birmingham, The Library at HMV Institute
Monday October 24: Oxford, O2 Academy
Wednesday October 26: Bristol, O2 Academy
Friday October 28: London, Koko
Saturday October 29: Brighton, Concorde 2
Sunday October 30: Norwich, Waterfront

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Four Kornerz comeback concert April 27

With new material promised imminantly, a live date is just what the doctor ordered as multi-award winning brothers-in-charms Four Kornerz play 229 Great Portland Street on April 27.

Blurb for the night is thus... The band will feature new tune 'Superstar' alongside sneak-peeks at other material from a forth-coming project at their first major London concert since 2007.

We hear support on the night will be in the form of songstress Dionne Reid and popular Electro-Grime artist Guvna B. Also on the night, fans will also be given the opportunity to download a (FREE) exclusive Four Kornerz track - nice!

Exciting times ahead for these guys as FK singer Deji is quoted It's not just music but a whole creative process which will see us enter into other fields like a digital graphic novel which will accompany the 'Superstar' release". All we can say is, "bring it on!"

FOUR KORNERZ FULL EVENT DETAILS

DATE: APRIL 27

VENUE:
229 The Venue,
229 Great Portland Street,
London
W1W 5PN

TIME: Starts 7pm.

TICKET INFO:
Tickets Â�10 (+ booking fee) in advance, more on the door.

TUBE: Gt Portland St and Regents Park

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Wretch 32 @XOYO on April 18

Giving you the heads-up... Wretch 32 headlines XOYO on April 18 with support from Gfrsh, Rizzle Kicks and Kay Young.

At the beginning of this year Wretch 32 was earmarked by the BBC as one of the 15 rising-music-stars-to-watch for their â��Sound Of 2011', with praise being prestigiously heaped upon him from such credible Brit-MCs as Tinie Tempah, Professor Green and Devlin.

And as predicted, the mega talented north Londoner recently came to the forefront with his huge compulsively-pounding single â��Traktor' whilst carving out an enviable reputation as the UK rapper's rapper".

Tickets for Wretch 32's XOYO show are bound to sellout fast so we've added a buy now link along with our advice to "get em' now or be VERY disappointed".

Don't say we didn't warn you!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Erykah Badu plays Brixton Academy on July 17

Bit of friendly advice... Buy, beg or borrow a ticket for this one because when this sells out don't say we didn't warn you! ERYKAH BADU plays London's Brixton Academy on Sunday July 17 - Definitely one to say "I was there!"

Widely regarded as the Queen of Neo Soul, this multi-platinum-selling, singer-songwriter/actress/hip-hop collaborator/Grammy award winner has announced an extra special London date as part of her European tour. With a mix of soul, jazz & hip-hop this artist is beyond comparison, and as a night's of musical entertainment go, this show should be out of this world!

FULL SHOW DETAILS:

DATE: Sun 17 Jul 11

VENUE:
O2 Academy Brixton
211 Stockwell Road
London
SW9 9SL

TEL: 08444 77 2000

TIME: Door time: 7.00pm

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

R.Kelly plays Hammersmith and Manchester Apollo - April 22/23

Here's one for the diary and a cert to be sold out ~ R.KELLY plays the Hammersmith Apollo on Friday April 22nd and Manchester Apollo on the 23rd...

After releasing his 11th studio album 'Love Letter', receiving two Grammy nominations AND being named number one Rn'B/Hip Hop Artist in the past 25 years by Billboard, R Kelly returns to the UK for a huge show at the hmv Apollo.

R.Kelly is a true superstar in every sense of the word, who has been responsible for iconic Rn'B hit after hit, including: â��I Believe I can Fly', â��Ignition', â��Bump N Grind' and â��If I Could Turn Back The Hands Of Time' - to name a few.

Full details below, so you better bag yourself a ticket (or two) quick, before they are all gone! ...Don't say we didn't warn you!!

FULL R.KELLY DETAILS:

DATE/TIME: Fri, 22 April 2011 at 19:00

VENUE:
HMV Apollo Hammersmith
45 Queen Caroline Street,
Hammersmith
London, W6 9QH

TUBE - Hammersmith

DATE/TIME: Sat, 23 April 2011 at 19:00

VENUE:
O2 Apollo Manchester
Stockport Road,
Manchester,
M12 6AP, GB

Please note: Tickets for R Kelly's cancelled tour dates in 2010 are NOT valid for this show. Refunds should be sought from point of purchase.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Nathan Watson and Alex Cuba @Bush Hall

They said two into one doesn't go - well I've got news for you, it does!! As mega talented pair Nathan Watson and Grammy nominated Alex Cuba play one special night at London's Bush Hall on Thursday March 24...

With Watson's new EP 'Student Of Life' already picking up plaudits with fresh soul-funky sounds/cool riffs in abundance, no wonder Nathan Watson's name has been put to the top of the list of ones to look out for this year.

Ahead of the launch of his new album in the UK in April; with two Juno Awards to his credit, a Latin Grammy and Grammy Nominee for The Best Latin Pop Album 2011, Alex Cuba proves a perfect compliment to this fine night of musical talent.

Two great artists on one great night... Miss this show at your peril!

EVENT INFO:

ARTIST'S: Nathan Watson/Alex Cuba

VENUE:
Bush Hall
310 Uxbridge Rd,
London W12 7LJ
020 8222 6955

DATE: Thursday March 24

TICKET: Â�12.50

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Jazz FM presents The Soul Immigrants @Jazz Cafe - March 18

The Soul Immigrants are back! And look set to bring the house down on March 18 at London's premier venue, the Jazz Cafe. This outfit promise to play their own brand of infectious jazz filled funk as Jazz FM are proud to present this funk filled affair...

After smashing it in Europe, it's time for the Immigrants to turn their attention to these shores and having been been lauded by the likes of Dj's Craig Charles, Adrian Gibson and Gilles Peterson - you can see why their shows are much attend events.

With an abundance of funky-ass tunes on the menu, this tasty treat will surely please the most ardent of musical appetites as the Soul Immigrants provide an evening of pure soul/jazz and funk pleasure - If you're a fan of Jamiroquai and the Brand New Heavies then this is right up your street... Lead singer Emrys: "We've kept faithful to the funk and now we are going even deeper!"

Jazz FM present The Soul Immigrants at the Jazz Cafe on Friday March 18th.

Tickets are Â�10 in advance and more on the door.

See you there!;)

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Soul II Soul @Roundhouse - Friday March 4

Welcome news... Soul II Soul will be appearing at the one of our fav venues, the Roundhouse, on Friday March 4. The Grammy award winning outfit, whose soulful ripples are still felt throughout dance/soul and R&B genres are back in full effect with Jazzie B & Karen Wheeler showing why this outfit where pivitol to UK music.

As a band, Soul II Soul have sold over 6.8 million albums worldwide to date. Founder/DJ/Super producer Jazzie B has accreditation on over 35 million albums in over 100 territories and has appeared at some of the most famous venues in the world.

In May 2008 Jazzie won the Ivor Novello Award for inspiration. The same month there was royal recognition, when after thirty years of dedication, Jazzie was awarded an OBE for services to music - the first sound man to be honoured by Her Majesty the Queen, and probably the most deserved investiture ever.

So, if true soul music is your thing then The Roundhouse is the place to be on March 4. Blues & Soul have enjoyed following the smooth sounds of Jazzie B and co since their incarnation in the early '80s and without hesitation recommends this event for a night out not to be missed!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Motown infused Musical 'The Sapphires' comes to London

London's Barbican centre will come alive to the sound of Motown this March as, 'The Sapphires', a musical which Australian Stage calls; "Energetic, passionate, heart-wrenching, uplifting, hilarious, engaging" AND "bloody brilliant!" Looks set to play to adoring fans and music/theatre lovers on this side of the Atlantic.

'The Sapphires' is a true story about Supremes cover band in Vietnam, 1969 - Bombs are dropping and the world is exploding in protest. Back at the Tiki Club four Aboriginal sisters from the country catch the eye of a big city talent scout with their Supremes' cover band, and they're off to sing for the troops on the front line. But the realisation of a lifelong dream to perform overseas isn't quite what they had in mind.

Australia's hippest soul sisters sing the hits that defined a generation including classics from soul legend Aretha Franklin ('Think, Respect'), the chart-topping singles from The Supremes ('Stop In The Name of Love', 'Love Is Like A Heatwave') and Marvin Gaye's signature song 'I Heard it Through the Grapevine' - all with a live band.

INFO:

The Sapphires
Belvoir & Black Swan State Theatre Company
Performance time: 19:45 (17:00 on 6 Mar, 14:00 on 5 & 12 Mar)
Running time: 140 mins/incl interval

Tickets: Â�16 â�� 28
subject to availability

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

EMPD, Skitz & Rodney P play the HMV Forum - Saturday Feb 19

We give you the heads-up this week to a lil' bit of hip hop heaven and a must for music lovers everywhere as The Doctors Orders present EMPD, Skitz & Rodney P at the HMV Forum on Saturday Feb 19.

The decks for this knockout event will be manned by the ever capable tune-misters Mo Fingaz & Bobafatt (Main Squeeze). And spicing things up just right will be Big Ted, who is set to host the whole proceedings.

For those of you that are not familiar with legendary '80s/'90s duo EPMD (Eric and Parrish Making Dollars)... These masters of rap, playing their first London show in 10 years, created 4 stand-out albums (from the 1988 classic 'Strictly Business' to 1992's 'Business Never Personal') during there tenure at the top of the rap charts. Their charismatic rhymes mixed with stand-alone funky grooves set the bar aloft for hip-hop's underground fraternity.

This show will blow the Forum roof clean off!!! And comes highly recomended.

USEFUL DETAILS:

HMV Forum
9-17 Highgate Road
London,
NW5 1JY

Box office - venue box office is available for collection from 5pm - 9.30pm to collect tickets on show days only.

Age restrictions - strictly 14 +, 14 - 16's year olds must be accompanied by an adult. ID required. (Unless specified otherwise in event description)

Camera policy - no professional cameras - cameras with interchangeable lenses or lenses over 35mm, no camcorders or dictaphones.

Public transport - there is limited parking in Kentish town so please use public transport where ever possible. The HMV Forum also operates 2 public car parks for its patrons use after 6.30pm. Regis Rd (please park anywhere after the police station and NOT in either UPS car parks) and Carkers Lane (upper level of the car park)

Tube: Kentish Town

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

The Vintage Festival moves to London - Full details...

Last year Wayne & Gerardine Hemingway brought their festival vision to the masses via their successful and much talked about Vintage extravaganza. Soooo lucky us, they've decided to do it again! But this time it will not be at the glorious Goodwood location - instead it will be situated at London's sunny Southbank, and will be the cherry on the top of July's month long Festival Of Britain.

When interviewed by yours truly back in February 2010 Hemingway said he would be happy with 20,000 visitors to attend his unique festival - As word spread, he ended up with 50,000! And as Vintage 2010 was described as the new Festival of Britain where better to host Vintage 2011 than the South Bank, which will be celebrating the 60th anniversary of that very festival - the 1951 'Festival of Britain'. (Ahhh, now you've fallen in! lol)

So save the dates 29th, 30th and 31st of July to your diary for what is sure to be a spectacle to end all spectacles - where the 21 acre section of the Embankment, including The Royal Festival Hall, The Hayward Gallery, Queen Elizabeth Hall, Purcell Room, The British Film Institute, the shops, restaurants and bars will together transform into a Vintage Wonderland!

MORE OF WHAT TO EXPECT AT VINTAGE ON THE SOUTHBANK ...

Vintage on The South Bank will celebrate the music, fashion, film, art, dance and design from the 1920s', 30s', 40s', 50s', 60s', 70s' and 80s', that has made Britain the world's creative and cultural hot bed. Featuring world renowned bands, DJs, collectors from each decade as well as current bands and brands inspired by Britain's rich creative heritage. All the wonderful clubs, bands, fashions, art & design, film, shops, vintage retailers, dance lessons, make overs, workshops that made Vintage 2010 so memorable will be there along with some cool new surprises...

Learn Northern Soul dancing (one of our favourites) or to Jive - try out clubs that evoke the ambience of classic venues like Wigan Casino, The Blitz Club and those much missed 80s' warehouse parties OR dance in a South Bank Ballroom to a 20 piece swing orchestra.

And if that wasn't enough... By night, the whole of the South Bank complex will be transformed into a series of evocative set-dressed venues, complimented by a flotilla of party boats, cruising The Thames on a summer evening specialising in genres from funk, to electro swing.

Dare you miss it? I should coco!!!

For more details visit:

vintagebyhemingway.co.uk

Facebook - The Vintage Festival

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Jamiroquai tour dates update

As new Jamiroquai tune 'Lifeline' echoes to the chorus "I'm back on the road again." I am pleased to announce just that fact...

Indeed Mr Kay (no, not Vernon) and the boys are touring for the first time in 5 years promoting new sizzler 'Rock Dust Light Star' - the tour will see them touch base with fans in London, Manchester, Birmingham and Glasgow Arena's through the month of April.

As usual, with a Jamiroquai linked event, tickets will be almost sold-out before I get to the end of this sentence...

So get a move on - chop, chop!!

Full tour details:

Fri: April 15: London o2 Arena - 0844 856 0202
Sun: April 17: Birmingham LG Arena - 0844 338 8000
Tue: April 19: Manchester MEN Arena - 0844 847 8000
Wed: April 20: Glasgow SECC DFC - 0844 499 9990

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

The Southport Weekender moves to Minehead

The Southport Weekender is to move to new venue in Minehead, Somerset this May... After Pontins chain called in the receivers, the famous Southport event has had to call time at this venue and look for an alternative site...

I think 'shock' is an understatement to say the least as the ever loyal core of Southport attendees will have to change their point of destination, with fond memories aplenty and having enjoyed this venue in the past it could prove a bit of a wrench to travel to this new part of the country... As Pontins are still looking for new owners, there were no guarantees that the Southport venue would be open for business this May. So, after much deliberation and with the plight of Pontins in mind, the alternative Butlins venue was sort/found.

On a good note, there is more room at the new venue with 6,000 revellers being allowed to stay on-site - the lack of accommodation space was a real issue at the Southport venue with chalets/rooms at the venue selling almost straight away, after going on sale. Also good news for the artists, DJ's and staff who will now be also staying at the Minehead attraction - happy soulful families!

Organisers say the sprit of this top musical attraction will still be in abundance and carry the event forward and into a fruitful future at the new Minehead home - the DJ/artist line-up will still be second to none - which kinda helps don't you think? lol

1,500 tickets go on sale on Friday January 28, so if you missed out when they went on sale for the original Southport, get in there early for this extra chance to get Southport Weekender tickets - oops! Sorry, "Minehead Weekender" tickets - sorry, old habits die hard!

Below are the benefits the organisers say will enhance the new venue along with a few words to hopefully smooth the move - So I'll let you make your own minds up.... But it does sound good!

* It's a truly beautiful landscaped resort situated near the rolling hills of Somerset on the edge of Exmoor National Park with lovely beaches and the harbour town of Minehead. Being close to the gulf-stream it often enjoys the weather and judging by the palm trees we believe it.

* The standard of on resort accommodation on offer is of all sizes from 2-berth upwards to 8-berth, with a choice of self catering and room only, are superb - and no more electric cards - as all your electricity is included!!

* If you really want to push the boat out the 5* BlueSkies Apartments with a concierge service.

* The 4 purpose built venues are in a different league and perfect for what you're used to but much better. All centrally located.

* As well as our own staff, Butlins have a 1200 person trained Team on resort and on hand to help with things and even direct or take you to your apartments.

* As well as the venues, which excitingly will remain the same format but better, the resort itself has loads of fantastic facilities including;

The amazing Splash Waterworld, Multi Sports Courts, Cinema, Go Carting, Funfair, 10 Pin bowling, Hairdressers (for you ladies to prep yourself), Shops, including supermarket, bakery, launderette, newsagent. Bumper Boats. 3 other on resort pubs as well as the venues;

* The Sun and Moon, perfect for the Friday arrival party and Saturday pm party with its excellent location and outside area.

* The obligatory Irish bar

* The HotShots Sports Bar with plasma screens and ten pin bowling, pool, snooker and darts.

* A RANGE OF DINING OUTLETS INCLUDING:

The organisers add....

We realise of course for some of you it will be further to travel but for some it will be a lot closer. Please trust us as when you see it you will be as excited as us it is going to be amazing.

We are busy writing individually to all party leaders at the moment and you can expect to receive something in the post soon if it hasn't already been received.

Following the massive recent growth of the Sunday Night After Party we are also delighted to inform you that we will be allocating free Sunday Night stay overs for the first 1500 people - more details will follow shortly, but the Sunday will feature some very special guests!

As we are sure you appreciate we could be inundated with enquiries in the next few weeks not just from those of you already booked but also people wishing to join us and we have taken on extra help for the phones but please bear with us.

If you have any questions please call 0844 879 7210 or +44 (0)1207 549 223 if calling from outside the UK during office hours or e-mail us on info@southportweekender.co.uk

For more details southportweekender.co.uk

Southport Weekender Presents Sunc�Beat 2 : July 29th-31st 2011
The Garden Petrcane, Croatia suncebeat.com

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Teena Marie cause of death still "unclear"

It is likely that the cause of US soul singer Teena Marie's death will take a few weeks to determine. L A coroner Ed Winter said "an autopsy showed no signs of trauma".

"Toxicology could determine the cause of death but usually take at least six weeks to conclude", he added. Marie was found dead at her California home on 26 December. Authorities at the time said the death appeared to be from natural causes.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Teena Marie 1956 - 2010

Born March 05 1956 in Santa Monica, California - Marie Christine Brockert - Teena Marie (nicknamed Lady T and the Ivory Queen Of Soul), released 13 studio albums. Her many hits include 'I'm a Sucker for Your Love', 'Lovergirl', 'Fire and Desire', 'Ooo La La La', 'Square Biz', 'Portuguese Love', 'Irons In The Fire', 'I Need Your Lovin', 'Behind The Groove' and 'Congo Square' - to name but few...

Teena Marie grew up in west Los Angeles in a neighbourhood that was nicknamed "Venice Harlem" because of its heavy black population. She signed to Motown (Gordy) in 1976 (aged 19) and was one of their most successful white artists. It was at Motown that she met her mentor, Rick James, who wrote and produced for her debut album, 'Wild and Peaceful' ('79). As the cover to her debut album, or subsequent single, did not contain a picture of the artist - many programmers at black radio stations assumed, by her rich pitch and perfect tones, that she was a black artist. When her next album, 'Lady T' ('80) was released, the R&B world was surprised to find out this female artist who sang THE most realistic R&B lyrics was in fact white. But by that time black R&B fans, who now loved Marie's style of music, really didn't care - she was a soul singer whose love of black music was both apparent and consistent.

Marie was doing most of her own writing and producing by album number three, her personal favourite album, 'Irons in the Fire' was released in 1980 and spawned the major hit 'I Need Your Lovin'. Her next album, 'It Must Be Magic' (included another huge tune 'Square Biz'). The 'It Must Be Magic' album was to be her last Motown release, it was this album which was to embroil the artist in a legal battle with the mighty label in 1982. Marie won this land-mark case and was immediately released from the rest of her contract with Motown. it was this case which courts would go on to call "The Brockert Initiative", which states, a label cannot keep an artist under contract without putting out an album by him or her. A ruling which has helped many established artists break their contracts with labels.

Upon signing for Epic Records in 1983 Marie would record the concept album 'Robbery' in this year, this would contain the outstanding track 'Fix It'. While her sixth album 'Starchild' ('84) would prove to be her biggest selling album and would produce the huge hit 'Lovergirl'. This crossover track proved a success in both R&B and, for the first time, pop charts - and was proof of the artists increasing popularity.

More Epic albums would follow: 'Emerald City' ('86), 'Naked to the World' ('88) - containing smash hit 'Ooh La La La', and her last Epic Records release would be 'Ivory in 1990. Epic would go on to drop the singer in the same year, despite the first two singles 'Here's Looking at You' and 'If I Were a Bell' doing decent chart business, Marie and her label mutually agreed to part.

1994, saw the artist release 'Passion Play' on her own Sarat label. Lacking the backing/money from a major label, the album was well received but wasn't to perform sales wise. It was at this point Marie took some personal time, dropping out of the recording spotlight to raise daughter Alia Rose (who was later to adopt the stage name "Rose Le Beau"). When Marie started work on her fated 'Black Rain' album, she found it hard to secure a deal with a major label. Reluctant to release on her own label due to the sales of 'Passion Play', the 'Black Rain' album was pulled. A few tracks from the album did find their way to her fans via promos the artist had made, other 'Black Rain' material would make appearances on later work.

After a lengthy hiatus, 2004 saw Marie sign to Cash Money Records and release 'La DoÃ�a', this featured the likes of Gerald LeVert, Rick James, and MC Lyte. Penultimate 2006 album 'Sapphire', would reunite her with Motown icon/one of Marie's personal heroes - Smokey Robinson. It was Robinson's writing style and vocal delivery which was to have a huge impression on a young Teena Marie when she was signed to Motown. This album was also released through Cash Money Records, but Marie was to leave the label soon after its release.

2009 would see Marie switch to the iconic Stax label with her last album release 'Congo Square'. Marie spoke at length to B&S' Editor, Lee Tyler, about this fulfilling project and the great memories making this album invoked. "I wanted to do songs that reflected the things that I loved when I was growing up. Every single song on the record is dedicated to someone, or some musical giant that I loved. 'The Pressure' is dedicated to Rick James; 'Can't Last a Day' is dedicated to the Gamble & Huff sound - the Philly International sound'. Then 'Baby I Love You' and 'Ear Candy' are dedicated to Marvin Gaye and Curtis Mayfield - with memories of riding down Crenshaw in LA in jeeps and bumping to music on the 808. While 'Miss Coretta' is, of course, dedicated to Mrs. Coretta Scott King, the late wife of Dr. Martin Luther King."

Grammy nominated R&B legend Teena Marie was found at her Los Angeles home on December 26 2110 by her daughter Alia Rose. It appears that the artist died of natural causes, according to her manager, Mike Gardner. Her cause of death was not immediately known but Marie's publicist, Lynn Jeter, told CNN that Marie had suffered a grand mal seizure a month ago.

Our hearts and thoughts go out to Teena Marie's family in this time of great sorrow. Another all time great whose flame shone so bright and was extinguished so early.

Teena Maria is survived by daughter Alia Rose.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Joey Negro's Sunburst Band to play London's Jazz Cafe on Dec 30 & 31

The end of this year promises to be extra special as Joey Negro's Sunburst Band are set to play London's Jazz Cafe on Dec 30 &31. With this pair of unforgettable evenings on the cards they'll be a great deal (see what I did there!) to get excited about!

After selling out shows across the country, including: Southport, Band On The Wall, Concorde II, Ronnie Scott's + Porgy & Bess Austria, Garden Festival Croatia and ArthurÂ�s Day Dublin, Joey Negro's Sunburst Band are flying since there incarnation as a live show.

The show promises to be packed full of unmissable Sunburst modern soul classics including: 'Everyday', 'Far Beyond', 'Rough Times', 'Garden of Love' and 'Fly Away'. We have also been told that Negro is currently hard at work in the studio producing Sunburst Band album number four, so I'm sure they'll be a few world exclusive performances of future Sunburst classics thrown in too boot! Crisp, soulful and funky - what else!!

New Years Eve also has a DJ set from Joey Negro added so you can party all the way through till 2011!! Told you it will be unforgettable!;)

FULL DETAILS:

JOEY NEGRO'S SUNBURST BAND

Jazz Cafe, London â�� Thu 30th December 2010

JOEY NEGRO'S SUNBURST BAND feat DJ JOEY NEGRO'S AFTER PARTY

Jazz Cafe, London â�� Fri 31st December 2010

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Gorillaz to give away free album on Christmas Day

If you visit the Gorillaz.com right now you will notice that the guys have an advent calendar thang going on... We hear that on top of the daily giveaways Damon plans to giveaway an entire album to Gorillaz devoted fans...

The download will contain tracks that Album wrote on his IPad as he travelled across America recently and it's release will coincide with the end of the current tour. On Xmas eve there will be a download for a video from the album and on Christmas day you will be bag yourself a brand new Gorillaz album - for free!!

Wow, thank you Santa! Opps sorry, Damon.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

B&S Image Archive Sale!

As you probably already know, we have launched our own online gallery displaying a small proportion of Blues & Soul images going back to the early 1960's. We have images from all your favourite artists in the very early years of their careers. Not only can you peruse the website to view some never seen before image, you can also select images and have them created into a poster or canvas. We are gradually growing image collection by continually adding images from all genres of music we cover, primarily being R&B, Soul and Jazz. To celebrate this fantastic addition to the Blues & Soul family, we have a sale with 10% off all orders and free postage & packaging for orders in the UK (with the exception of canvas images) until 30 November 2011. We have also included our B&S t-shirt range, so if you are struggling to come up with ideas of different Christmas presents, or fancy treating yourself then look no further!

Just click on the ad we have on the right had side of the home page which will direct you to the website at www.bsimagearchive.com

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Martha Reeves & The Vandellas UK December Dates

Martha Reeves comes to London this December to play 3 dates at London's Jazz Cafe on the 14th, 15th and 16th + The Library @HMV Institute on the 17th. She will then hot-foot it up to Scotland to play a date in Edinburgh...

So what better way to get you in the Christmas spirit this December than to dance the night away to anthems glore from one of the most successful bands of the â��60s. These Rock'n'Roll Hall Of Fame inductees will be in fine voice with iconic Motown hits that include: â��Nowhere To Run', â��Jimmy Mack' and â��Dancing In The Street' - and that's just for starters!

FULL DETAILS...

MARTHA REEVES & THE VANDELLAS

The Library @ HMV Institute - Friday 17th December 2010

Jazz Cafe London - Tues 14th, Wed 15th & Thurs 16th - December

HMV Picture House, Edinburgh â�� Saturday 18th December 2010

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Jocelyn Brown to play the Jazz Cafe on December 10, 11, 12

The amazing vocal tones of Jocelyn Brown come to London town on December 10, 11, 12 to play a Christmas residency at the Jazz Cafe. This must-attend event promises to be a sell-out, so get your tickets now - or risk disappointment!

With credentials that include working with stellar artist's Luther Vandross, Bette Midler, John Lennon, Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, Roberta Flack, George Benson, Teddy Pendergrass, Culture Club, Masters At Work as well as establishing hits for UK chart topers Incognito; her list of accomplishments goes on!... and on!!

So, if you haven't witnessed this mighty diva yet, then I implore you to shake a leg and get yourself down to the Jazz Cafe on this special weekend. Expected Jocelyn greats include 'One from the Heart', 'Love's Gonna Get You', 'Believe', 'Always There' and of course the iconic, â��Somebody Else's Guy'.

Miss at your peril!

BELOW: Just a lil' somethin' to get you in a JB mood! Enjoy!!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Jazz FM Presents... Live at The Roof Gardens

Good news soul/jazz fans! There's a QUALITY live music weekly in the heart of London which we would like to bring to your attention... In Kensington to be exact! As Jazz FM Presentsâ�� 'Live at The Roof Gardens' - with a nothing short of superb line-up...

Music fans across the capital will be able to listen to the very best in live performances in spectacular surroundings as The Roof Gardens (winner of the â��Best Club' at the Chelsea and Kensington Best Bar None Awards 2009 and nominated for â��Best Club' in the â��2010 London Club & Bar Awards) plays host to the hottest new acts on the â��nu jazz' and â��nu groove' scene, who are all set to perform exclusive set's at this exceptional roof-top venue each week.

The November line-up includes:

Saturday 06th: Kelly Dickson: Chapter Two
Saturday 13th: Soulful multi-instrumentalist: Matti Roots
Saturday 20th: International soul sensation Leslie Phillips
Saturday 27th: The Urban Jazz Collective

Music starts at 8pm

The Roof Gardens, 99 High Street Kensington, W8 5SA

For more information on the line up visit jazzfm.com and to apply for the guest list for all forthcoming nights, please visit the guest list

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Jazz Legend Miles Davis London Exhibition

As we are nearing the 20th anniversary of his death, Miles Davis â�� considered by many to be the world's greatest jazz musician â�� will have his last remaining 100 original drawings and oil paintings showcased at Gallery 27, Cork Street, Mayfair, London W1S 3NG from Tuesday, 7 December to Saturday, 11 December 2010.

Many of his paintings reflect his well documented fascination with, and love of, women, together with evocations of African tribal art. Celebrities like Diana Ross, Prince and Phil Collins now own his work.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

New Michael Jackson album to be released on December 13th

The eagerly awaited album of new material recorded original in New Jersey in 2007 from Michael Jackson called simply MICHAEL will be released on December 13 through Epic Records and the Jackson estate.

The image chosen for the cover of, potently one of the most famous album covers ever, will be Kadir Nelson's 2009 painting of Jackson. Nelson's oil painting depicts many pivotal moments/images through the artists life - apt indeed.

There will be an exclusive trailer to the album to be shown at michaeljackson.com from tomorrow and on Monday November 8 there will be a premiere of the track "Breaking News", which has been ear-marked as the first release from the album MICHAEL - This we hear, will be streamed for one week only!

B&S will bring you more Michael Jackson news as it happens...

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Mary Wilson and the Chi-Lights to tour U.K in February/March 2011

Motown's finest Ms Mary Wilson will be in the U.K in Feburary 2011 to headline a tour, appearing as Mary Wilson of the Original Supremes. She will be joined on the bill by Rhythm & Blues Hall of Famers - The Chiâ��Lites.

The former singer/founding member of The Supremes, we are told, will be performing all their hits and more - including: 'Where Did Our Love Go' and the No 1's that include 'Baby Love', 'Come See About Me', 'Stop In the Name of Love' and 'Back in My Arms Again'. Plus enduring greats... 'I Hear A Symphony', 'You Cant Hurry Love', 'You Keep Me Hanging On', 'The Happening', 'Reflections', 'I'm Gonna Make You Love Me', 'Someday We'll Be Together', â��Nathan Jones', â��Stoned Love' and many more.

Special guests The Chiâ��Lites will perform in the UK for the first time in 23 years! Their many hits include '(For God's Sake) Give More Power To The People', 'Have You Seen Her', 'Oh Girl', 'Homely Girl', 'I Found Sunshine', 'Too Good To Be Forgotten', 'It's Time For Love' & 'You Don't Have To Go'.

The 20 date tour will span across the length and breath of the country starting on February 26 through to it's culmination on March 20.

The full tour dates are as follows:

FEBRUARY

SAT 26th LEICESTER - De Montfort Hall
SUN 27th - BOURNEMOUTH - Pavilion
MON 28th - KINGS LYNN - Corn Exchange

MARCH

WED 2nd - SHEFFIELD - City Hall
THURS 3rd - NEWCASTLE - City Hall
FRI 4th - SOUTHPORT - Theatre
SAT 5th - CROYDON -Fairfield Halls
SUN 6th - BUXTON - Opera House
TUES 8th - LONDON - Indigo2
WED 9th - MALVERN Theatre
THURS 10th - CARDIFF St David's Hall
FRI 11th - BRISTOL Colston Hall
SAT 12th - NORTHAMPTON Derngate
SUN 13th - DARTFORD Orchard Theatre
TUES 15th - TUNBRIDGE WELLS Assembly
WED 16th - BASINGSTOKE The Anvil
THURS 17th - OXFORD NEW THEATRE
FRI 18th - ST ALBANS Arena
SAT 19th - SHREWSBURY Theatre Severn
SUN 20th - BIRMINGHAM Alexandra Theatre

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch Trey Songz Bottoms Up!

Trey Songz is back with new album 'Passion, Pleasure & Pain' and has already penned in a tour to the UK next year with Usher - just to wet your appetite we have the brand new video for the first track off the album. The track is called Bottoms Up! I thought that was an English expression...

Anyway, hope you like the tune - we're sure this will make you nod your head and tap your feet, and if you fancy, throw a few shapes too! Now that is an English expression!! lol

Enjoy!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Win the chance to see Cee-Lo-Green perform @album chart show - KOKO

What are you doing on Monday? Fancy seeing Cee-Lo-Green perform at KOKO, well you can... 100 lucky winners will get the chance to witness the unmistakeable tones of Mr Green as part of the Album chart show...

Riding high in the chart at the moment with 'Forget You' - yes I have heard the other version, and don't tell anyone, but I quite like it!! Anyway, to get the chance to see this immensely talented power-house deliver in customery Cee-Lo style just sign-up at ceelogreen.com and you could attend this unique event along with 99 other lucky fans!

Well, what you waiting for???;)

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch Rumer - Aretha

One of the most lushious voice's to grace the charts of late has to be one of our one's to watch, Rumer... With the follow up to stunning debut 'Slow' - we give you a chance to watch her new video, Aretha...

Enjoy!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch John Legend & The Roots - Wake-Up!

John Legend, The Roots, Melanie Fiona and Common singing a Teddy tune - enough said!

Enjoy!!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Arrested Development play London's Barbican Centre on Oct 13

Arrested Development are back! And this time they will be heading to London's Barbican centre for, what is promising to be, a very special date! So add Oct 13 to your diary and book those tickets now, before they are gone!! (and don't say we didn't warn you!)

This outfit became known as a real alternative to the hip hop gangster type acts that inhabited the chart's in the mid '90s. The band became a positive, politically-conscious alternative role model for their genre - and in turn have helped to shape hip hop we love today.

Many of you will remember their first album '3 Years, 5 Months & 2 Days In The Life Of' (named after the time it took to get their first record deal) which produced the hit's 'Tennessee' and 'People Everyday'. These hit's + the classic 'Mr. Wendal' have been promised on this special night as the Barbican looks set to erupt into life - inimitable fresh and joyfully eccentric style by the bucket load!!... Told you it'll be good night! lol

Full details as follows:

Arrested Development

Barbican Centre
Barbican Hall,
Silk Street,
EC2Y 8DS

Wednesday 13th October 7.30pm

Tickets Â�13.50, Â�18.00, Â�22.50

Box Office: 0845 120 7550

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Celebration Of Life Concert 2010 - full details

The Metropolitan Black Police Association is once again proud to present its annual â��Celebration Of Life Concert', bringing together some of the finest names in contemporary music for a night of fantastic entertainment and raising awareness in support of the Association's anti-violence initiative Revival (community-based anti-violence initiative aimed at highlighting social issues both in London and across the UK) to combat gun and knife crime and to promote respect for life.

Headlining this year's â��Celebration of Life Concert' is one of the country's best loved reggae bands, Aswad. Who will be playing all their hits including their international 1988 hit â��Don't Turn Around'. Also sharing top spot on the bill, world reknowned saxophonist Courtney Pine will be in attendence and will be joined by lyrical guitarist Cameron Pierre for a special duo set.

This year the superb Lifeforce Band will be joined by guest vocalists Guvna B, Vula Malinga and Kersha Bailey who are all hotly tipped for 2010. And if that wasn't enough there are laugh's in abundence from funny man Curtis Walker who will be your host for this evening of top entertainment.

COURTNEY PINE & CAMERON PIERRE
LIFEFORCE BAND & GUESTS

Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre
Friday 22nd October 2010, 7.30pm
Tickets: Â�20-Â�10 + Booking fee
Call: 0844 847 9910
southbankcentre.co.uk

Signed throughout in British Sign Language by Hetty May Bailey.

For more information on this and other initiatives by the MetBPA please visit metbpa.com

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Spyder Turner and Pree record for bandtrax records

If you're a collector of Motown-related vinyl then this item is for you. Bandtrax label's Carl Dixon has announced that they have further copies available of the two exclusive singles recorded in 2008 â�� 'Suddenly There's You' by Pree and 'Tell Me (Crying Over You)' by Spyder Turner.

Both singles were arranged by (the late) David J Van De Pitte, and produced by Dennis Coffey and British musician Carl Dixon, who also co-wrote the singles. Both titles were recorded at Studio A in Dearborn Heights, Detroit, and feature legendary session musicians from the heart and soul of the city. The singles are Â�10 each including postage and package, available from bandtraxs.com They are also available as digital downloads. See Carl Dixon's interview in October's Motown Tracking and check out the following websites:

youtube.com/bandtraxs

youtube.com/55motown

www.youtube.com/phillysoultronics

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

New recording from soul vocalist Will Downing

Will Downing's new cd titled Lust, Love and Lies (An Audio Novel) is out now...

Every story has an arc, and love stories are no different. There's the initial encounter, the flirtation, the first date, the escalation, the passion â�� and then the map gets a little fuzzy. Because what comes next is hard to predict.

Vocalist Will Downing has a tale of love to tell and it's one we've all lived through at one time or another. Will's version Lust, Love And Lies (An Audio Novel) (which he fondly calls â��an audio soap opera') complete with intermittent vignettes of intimate conversations that help move the story along â�� includes elements of comedy, tragedy and all the subtle shades in between. This record had actually been coming together in my mind for five years Will said. I just didn't know how to go about it at first. I think this album solidifies what I'm doing and where I'm going.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

UB40 ANNOUNCE �SIGNING OFF' 30TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

UB40 are planning to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their seminal debut album 'Signing Off' by performing the whole album live during a tour of intimate venues across the UK throughout October and November 2010.

Taking its name from the unemployment form, 'Signing Off' was heralded as a landmark album when it was released in August 1980. Considered by many as one of the greatest reggae albums ever released by a British band, 'Signing Off' was well received among music fans, including followers of punk and the 2 Tone movement, and struck a chord with the large proportion of the UK's disaffected youth. Mixing reggae and dub, the album chronicled the times, the wider social and political issues, and the plight of communities throughout the country during the early Thatcher years. It achieved platinum status after spending 71 weeks in the chart, peaking at number 2, and famously depicted a replica of the bright yellow unemployment card from which the Birmingham-based band took its name â�� Unemployment Benefit Form 40!

In addition to performing 'Signing Off', UB40 will devote a second set to their most loved tracks. EMI will release a remastered double-CD together with a bonus DVD. Full touring itinerary from www.ub40.co.uk

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

The latest Vintage at Goodwood Festival news....

The evolution of the festival is truly here as Wayne Hemingway's vision 'Vintage at Goodwood' looks set to be separate the soul-boys from the un-men-tionables!?

All those present on the 13th, 14th and 15th of August will witness first hand, the part both fashion and the music have played in making Britain the greatest place to grow up, in the world. With that in mind, the partial line-up we're about to disclose reflects just that fact, as Mr Hemingway has brought together a veritable smoregageboard of musical delights that will fill the most ravenous of festival appetites. Which leads us in-turn to announce "the festival bar has officially been raised!"

There is an up-to-date list below of those live acts and Dj's participating at this years Vintage at Goodwood Festival... This list includes live action from Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, The Noisettes, Noel McKoy, Joe Battan, The Beat, Geno Washington, Leroy Hutson and Rox amongst others. And if that wasn't enough, just scratch the Dj'ing surface there's a real who's who of stella Dj's including: Richard Searle, Danny Rampling, Colin Curtis, Jay Strongman, Norman Jay, Eddie Piller, Chris Hill, Jazzie B, Greg Wilson and Joey Negro.

To sum up each day's themed intentions; I think this time we'll leave it to the Vintage organisers, as we repeat their intended vision for this outstanding weekend verbatim...

PUNKY REGGAE PARTY (Friday afternoon)
It's mid â��70s Thatcher-powered Jubilee-celebrating Britain! But down in the basement of the Roxy Club in Neal Street, Covent Garden, Don Letts , The Buzzcocks et al really did make reggae and punk inseparableâ�� Two Sevens really did Clash Three chord guitars meet relentless dub echo, toasters rap and safety-pinned bedroom dramas co-exist â�� London's Calling !

VINTAGE WITH STRINGS (Friday evening)
Adding layers of lush strings and a stylish sting of brass . Mix well and transform a gorgeous song into an anthem. With The Heritage Orchestra providing the backdrop, Vintage brings you Northern Soul like never before, a line of iconic female vocalists reclaiming songs sung by men that should've been sung by women and hook-laden hits given sweet, soulful depth.

ZOOT SUIT FEVER (Saturday afternoon)
When soul grooves collided with be bop jazz and the pounding of Latin rhythms, the early â��80s turned up its stylish collar, danced to â�� Me No Pop I ', Kid Creole , Was (Not Was) , and The Tom Tom Club, taking disparate sounds and turning them into pop. From the frenetic carnivals of Bristol to the Saturday night Wag Club, the mood is funky finger-popping good for Saturday afternoon.

THANK GOD IT'S SATURDAY (Saturday evening)
All across the nation, each generation had its dancefloor fillers, from blue-eyed soul to exotic funk-filled shape-throwers. Pay packet-powered Saturday nights in Britain were always alright for dancing, from disco to rave , let that bass move your body, get on the scene. Get on up and dance to the music. It's Chaka , Chic , Shalamar , The Crown Heights Affair , Kleeer . One Nation Under A Groove ,feeling the loveâ��

GUILTY PLEASURES (Sunday Afternoon)
In the â��70s, rock â��n' roll turned into glam and symphonic prog became pop. The radio brought us hit after hit by AOR legends and faceless British soul searchers, records we hid away for first dates or last calls. The perfect soundtrack for a Sunday afternoon, with every song written just for you. Oh Lori , Rosanna and Mandy , fly me . Maneaters every one.

FUTURAMA (Sunday Evening)
To Cut A Long Story Short , The Inspired By Stage closes with a celebration of the 30 th anniversary of Spandau Ballet moving out of Le Beat Route , when Duran Duran realised that This Is Planet Earth and Depeche Mode escaped Basildon.

Sparks flew as music embraced the technological electronic possibilities. The late â��70s futuristic sounds and their fatalistic worldview blossomed into world-taming electronic pop masterpieces during the â��80s. We didn't need That Fascist Groove Thing. Men machines walked among us. Pop Muzak's recent re-awakening was only a matter of time. Drink it in, it's last orders before Blue Monday .

The .. Inspired By ..Stage full line may be announced before Augustâ�� then maybe again it won't

FULL LINE-UP FOR VINTAGE AT GOODWOOD: A to Z Live Acts and DJs...Prepare to be amazed!!!

FRIDAY, 13TH AUGUST

MAIN STAGE

Evening: â��Boys And Girls'
Faces
Sean Rowley DJ
Sandie Shaw Reclaims The Song
Swing Out With Strings DJ set

Afternoon: â��Punky Reggae Party'
Buzzcocks
Don Letts DJ
Aswad

THE TORCH CLUB (40s) curated by Snowboy

James Langton's Solid Senders
Kitten Von Mew
Mike Sanchez And Band
PE Caspar

Plus :
Jeff's Two Tone Boogie DJ
The Afternoon Tea Dance
The Swing Dance Company

LET IT ROCK (50s) curated by Luke Morgan

Wanda Jackson
The Long Tall Texans
Black Elvis
The Dirty Robbers
Simon The Preacher DJ
John Timlin DJ

Plus:
Gaz's Rockin' Blues late night club
Jive Classes and Roller Girls

THE LEISURE DOME (60s) curated by Mike Flowers

Mike Flowers Pops
The Swingle Singers
Leisure Society
Lorraine Bowen
Russ Garcia's Fantastica
The Clangers
Jonny Trunk DJ
The Karminsky Experience

Plus:
The Indigo Club till 2am
The Martini Kings

SOUL CASINO ONE (70s) curated by Eddie Piller

The Wailers
Don Letts DJ
The Beat
Gaz Mayall's ska DJ set
Jah Thomas â�� King Tubby Dub Plates
Earl Gateshead (Trojan Sound System)
Pama International
Dr Bob Jones ska DJ set
U Brown â�� Scientist Dub Plates
Mistah Brown (Tighten Up)
Eddie Piller (Acid Jazz) DJ

SOUL CASINO TWO (70s) curated by Eddie Piller

David Holmes DJ
Henry Storch DJ
Hipshaker DJ
John Stapleton DJ
John Timlin DJ
Paul Hallam DJ
Dave Edwards (100 Club) DJ
Lloyd Atrill DJ
Richard Searle DJ

THE WAREHOUSE (80s) curated by Jack Hemingway and Greg Wilson

Danny Rampling DJ
Noel Watson DJ
A Guy Called Gerald DJ
Ashley Beedle and Trojan Sound System DJ
Luke Unabomber DJ

THE ROLLER DISCO curated by Jack Hemingway and Greg Wilson

Horse Meat Disco DJ
Princess Julia DJ
Jeffrey Hinton DJ
Kate Wildblood DJ
Steve Kotey DJ

SATURDAY, 14TH AUGUST

MAIN STAGE

Evening: â��TGI Saturday'
Earth Wind And Fire featuring Al Mckay
The Noisettes
Eddie Piller (Acid Jazz) DJ
Martha And The Vandellas

Afternoon: â��Glam Rock Confidential'
Roy Wood's Rock â��n' Roll Orchestra
Sean Rowley DJ
Alvin Stardust

THE TORCH CLUB (40s) cuarted by Snowboy

The John Miller Orchstra
Special Guest TBC
Kitten Von Mew
Laura B And The Moonlighters
Pete Long's Gillespiana
Tim Helzapoppin' DJ

Plus:
The Blowpipes
Viv The Spiv
Afternoon Tea Dance
Tap classes

LET IT ROCK (50s) curated by Luke Morgan

The Rezillos
The Polecats
The Highliners
The Caezars
Slim Slip And The Sliders
The New Forbidden
Jay Strongman's Rockabilly DJ set
Simon The Preacher DJ

Plus:
Rockn Bowl Club till 2am
Jive Classes and Roller Girls

THE LEISURE DOME (60s) curated by Mike Flowers

Tony Hatch
The Swingle Singers
Swing Out Sister
John Shuttleworth
Psychedelic Beatles' Singalong
The Karminsky Experience
Jonny Trunk
Mr Benn

Plus:
The Indigo Club till 2am
The Martini Kings
Rory Moore

SOUL CASINO ONE (70s) curated by Eddie Piller

The King Of Latin Soul Joe Bataan
Cymande II
The Noel McKoy Band
Ann Sexton
The Filthy Six
Dean Rudland DJ
Henry Storch DJ
DJ Dan D
Lloyd Attrill DJ
John Timlin DJ

SOUL CASINO TWO (70s) curated by Eddie Piller

Norman Jay DJ
Ali B (Kiss FM) DJ
Colin Curtis (Blackpool Mecca) DJ
Dr Bob Jones DJ
Chris Bangs DJ
Richard Searle DJ

THE WAREHOUSE (80s) curated by Jack Hemingway and Greg Wilson

Andrew Weatherall DJ
Graeme Park (Hacienda) DJ
Norman Jay DJ
Jay Strongman DJ
Colin Curtis DJ
Lascelles Lascelles DJ

THE ROLLER DISCO curated by Jack Hemingway and Greg Wilson

Lowlife DJ
Mick Hood DJ
Simon The Preacher DJ
Steve Kotey DJ

SUNDAY 15TH AUGUST

MAIN STAGE

Evening: â��Futurama'
Special guests TBA
Mark Jones Back To The Phuture DJ
Heaven 17
Gaggle

Afternoon: â��Zoot Suit Riot
Special guests
Chris Sullivan (Wag Club) DJ
Kid Creole And The Coconuts

THE TORCH CLUB (40s) cuarted by Snowboy

Ray Gelato
Corinne Drewery (Swing Out Sister) torch song set
Simon Donald
Gwendoline Lamour
The Swing Commanders
Kate Garner

Plus:
In Hartley DJ
The Floor Technicians
The Beaux Belles
Tap Classes

LET IT ROCK (50s) curated by Luke Morgan

The Damned
Matchbox
Keb Darge 50s set
The Lonnie Donegan Band with Pete Donegan
Jessie And The Orbits
Dragster
The Puppini Sisters
Simon The Preacher DJ

Plus:
The Lady Luck Club till 2am
Jive Classes and Roller Girls

THE LEISURE DOME (60s) curated by Mike Flowers

The Swingle Singers
People Like Us
The Pretty Things with Arthur Brown performing â��SF Sorrow'
Frank Sidebottom
Thunderbirds Are Go
The Karminsky Experience
Jonny Trunk
Ken Nordine's â��Colors'

Plus:
The Indigo Club till 2am
The Martini Kings
Rory Moore

SOUL CASINO ONE (70s) curated by Eddie Piller

LeRoy Hutson
Craig Charles Funk And Soul Show DJ
Geno Washington And The Ram Jam Band
Deep Funk DJ
The Third Degree
Marshall Chess and Fred Ekander DJ
Rox
Chris Bangs (Soul In One) DJ
The Pickle
John Timlin DJ

SOUL CASINO TWO (70s) curated by Eddie Piller

Chris Hill DJ
Ian Dewhirst DJ
Chris Bangs DJ
Ady Croadell (6Ts/100 Club) DJ
Val Palmer DJ
Corinne (Swing Out Sister) DJ
Wayne Hemingway DJ
Richard Searle DJ
Jo Wallace DJ

THE WAREHOUSE (80s) curated by Jack Hemingway and Greg Wilson

Greg Wilson DJ
Jazzie B DJ
Optimo DJ
Idjut Boys DJ
Winston Hazel DJ
George Power Crackers DJ
Les Spaine DJ

THE ROLLER DISCO curated by Jack Hemingway and Greg Wilson

Joey Negro DJ
Disco Bloodbath DJ
Pablo Contraband (Disco Deviant) DJ
Simon The Preacher DJ
Steve Kotey DJ

Collectively 'the DJs' from the list above represent many of the most influential venues/club nights in the history of UK dance culture including:

Berlin / Manchester
Blackpool Mecca
Blitz / London
Boys Own / London
Caister Soul Weekender
Central / Leeds
Cleethorpes Pier
Clouds / Preston
Crackers / London
Dee Jays / Chelmsford
Delerium / London
Demob / London
Dirtbox / London
Disco Bloodbath / London
Electric Ballroom / London
Electric Chair / Manchester
Garage / Nottingham
Goldmine / Canvey Island
Good Times / London
Hacienda / Manchester
Heavenly Social / London
Horse Meat Disco / London
Jive Turkey / Sheffield
Kinky Gerlinky / London
Lacy Lady / Ilford
Leadmill / Sheffield
Legend / Manchester
Locarno / Birmingham
Low Life / London
Mud Club / London
Optimo / Glasgow
Powerhouse / Birmingham
Pun / Liverpool
Rafters / Manchester
Ritz / Manchester
Rock City / Nottingham
Samantha's / Sheffield
Shake â��n' Fingerpop
Shoom / London
Soul II Soul / London
Timepiece / Liverpool
Wag / London
Warehouse / Leeds
Wigan Casino
Wigan Pier

Enough said!;)

Organiser Wayne Hemmingway CBE share's his Vintage at Goodwood vision with B&S Editor Lee Tyler in an exciting EXCLUSIVE - and boy does it look good! Looking Forward to Looking Back

Read the second part of Lee Tyler's interview with Vintage at Goodwood Festival founder Wayne Hemingway. Find out what soulful insperation drove the design guru to create one of this years must attend events Wayne's Vintage World!

To book and avoid disapointment please click below for tickets to Vintage... This festival will sell out! Don't say we didn't warn you!!!;)

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

JAKI GRAHAM IS TO BE SET FREE

British soul singer Jaki Graham, who has recently completed a sell-out arena tour of the UK with Michael McDonald, is to release the 25th Anniversary Special Edition of her 'Breaking Away' album on 23 August 2010 via Cherry Pop Records.

This release will include bonus tracks like â�� extended versions of 'Set me Free' and 'Breaking Away'; 'Still In Love' (lights down â�� lower mix); 'Luv 2 Much' (too much 12 mix) and the 7 version of 'Breaking Away'. This is followed by the Demon Music Group's release of 'Absolute Essential â�� The Very Best Of Jaki Graham' in October.

This 2-disc package includes a collection of her hits on the first disc, with the second devoted to her international releases from Avex which have never been available on cd in the UK before. It includes the US hits 'Ain't Nobody' and 'Absolute E-Sensual', plus the track Through Your Eyes written for Jaki by Michael McDonald. An extensive promotion campaign is planned with Jaki undertaking radio and tv spots across the country. She will also be promoting her own range of chocolates via leading chocolatier Paul Wayne Gregory. They will be available to purchase from his website www.paulwaynegregory.com.

Jaki Graham is also patron of the Dreamgirls Charity based in the North of England, and as such regularly performs at The Trafford Centre in Manchester. Her next appearance on behalf of the charity is on 24 October, the day before 'Absolute Essential â�� The Very Best Of Jaki Graham' goes on sale. Her autobiography 'Jaki Graham â�� Heaven Knows' will be available next year. For more information about one of this country's favourite artists, please visit www.jaki-graham.com, www.jakigrahamfanclub.com or www.twitter.com/Jaki Graham

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Win tickets to Doctor's Orders 5th Birthday @Fabric

Fifith year celibrations at top hip hop event 'The Doctors Orders' on the 23rd of July @London's Fabric... With guest DJ's galore including none other than Tim Westwood playing a Golden Age set will make it a night to remember...

Yep ex-B&S employee (hey! what can I say, we tried... lol) Tim 'The Big Dawg' Westwood will be the cherry on this Doctors Orders bumper birthday cake - helping to blow-out those candles at this hip-hop highlight will be Guilty Simpson, The Extended Players, DJ Nonames, Spin Doctor (of course), Chris P Cuts, Goldie, High Contrast, Scratch Perverts, Storm, Klute, AD, SP:MC, Justyce, South Rakkas Crew, Warrior One and Tomb Crew.

So, do you want to go? lol... Yeah, I thought you might... You could jump to the front of the the cue by just answering a simple Doctors Orders related question.

What birthday are The Doctors Orders celibrating this year?

A) 1st
B) 10th
C) 5th

Answers, Names, Addresses and PHONE NUMBERS to: competitions@bluesandsoul.com DOCTORS ORDERS in the subject box please.

Winner will get a pair of tickets to The Doctors Orders 5th Birthday at Fabric + a copy of the Guilty Simpson's "OJ Simpson" (niiiice) album. All entries in by Wednesday July 21 please.

LINE UP...

ROOM ONE:

Tim Westwood (Golden Age Set), Guilty Simpson (LIVE), Spin Doctor, Extended Players (Harry Love, Dj Mk & Shortee Blitz), Chris P Cuts

ROOM TWO:

Goldie, High Contrast, Scratch Perverts, Storm, Klute, Macpherson

MCs AD, Justyce,

ROOM THREE:

South Rakkas Crew, Warrior One, Tomb Crew,

OTHER>>>

Fabric Nightclub
77a Charterhouse Street,
London EC1M 3HN
www.thedoctorsorders.com
Â�15

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Win a pair of weekend tickets to the Vintage at Goodwood Festival

The must attend event this summer has to be Lord March, Wayne & Gerardine Hemingway's Vintage at Goodwood festival. Not only packed with a plethora of iconic DJ'ing genius, but also includes an astounding array of musical talent, all gathered across a mid August weekend in the picturesque setting of the Goodwood estate.

We were one of the first to excitedly announce this yearly festival, which in this it's this inaugural year, will surely set the bar for the others to beat. With a mighty mix of fashion and music skipping hand in hand across the 13-15th of August, what better way to spend a summer's weekend - truly an event for all, and one that the whole family can enjoy as we celebrate five decades of British cool from the 40s through 80s. In the spirit of the fondly remembered and design led 1951 Festival of Britain, Vintage is a celebration of where we have come from, and where our creative culture is taking us. It brings together and celebrates the music, fashion, film, art, dance and design that has made Britain the world's creative and cultural hot bed.

That's great, but who are these stella artists you speak of - you say? As there are so many attendees we have the full line-up details elsewhere on site, but just to give you a taster; How about Martha Reeves, Earth Wind & Fire, Gino Washington and Leroy Hutson. And DJ's including; Norman Jay, Danny Ramplin, Colin Curtis, Chris Hill and Joey Negro - see I told you you'll be impressed!

What else, what else??? Well, my impatient reading chums; There is also a vintage market place, a vintage high street with top brands in attendance, catwalk shows and film showings. I'm also told there will be vintage toys aplenty to keep kids amused - so more than enough to keep your B&S team busy for a weekend!!

The Vintage at Goodwood team are offering you the chance to win 2 weekend tickets to this event (there is no accommodation supplied with these tickets - but camping does start at just 15 quid). All you have to do to be in with a chance of attending this years Vintage festival is to answer a simple Vintage Festival related question...

Where is the Vintage festival being held?

A) GOODWOOD
B) BADWOOD
C) FAIR TO MIDDLING WOOD

Hard one hah?!;)

Answers, Names, Addresses and PHONE NUMBERS to: competitions@bluesandsoul.com VINTAGE in the subject box please.

***To repeat... The winner will get two weekend tickets to the Vintage at Goodwood Festival - There is no accommodation with prize.

The Vintage at Goodwood Festival takes place over the weekend of the 13th, 14th and 15th of August.

Click for up-to-date festival news and line-up UPDATED!

Wayne Hemingway share's his Vintage vision with B&S' Lee Tyler in an exciting EXCLUSIVE - Boy does it look good! Looking Forward to Looking Back

Read the second part of Lee Tyler's interview with Vintage at Goodwood Festival founder Wayne Hemingway. Find out what soulful inspiration drove the design guru to create one of this years must attend events Wayne's Vintage World!

To book and avoid disappointment please click the 'buy now' button below - this festival will sell out!!!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

The Blaze festival returns - full line-up details and discount news

After making its debut last year, the Blaze festival makes a welcome return to the Baribican - running from June 19 through to July 31, catchsome of the best roots, reggae, African, contemporary classical, jazz, world music on the planet!

This six-week celebration includes commissions, new works, open-air concerts and special shows in venues across East London including the historic Hackney Empire and more. It's bigger, it's bolder than last year and there's something to suit all ages and tastes. There's even a chance to save 20% by booking for more than one show - can't be bad!

LIST OF EVENTS/VENUES FOR 2010 BLAZE FESTIVAL:

Bassekou Kouyate & Ngoni ba + Ballake Sissoko & Vincent Segal
Mali's master of the ngoni returns to the Barbican with his band Ngoni ba, performing music from their current album I Speak Fula.
2 July 2010 / 19:30
Barbican Hall
Tickets: Â�12.50/15/18/22.50

Dave Holland & Pepe Habichuela Flamenco Quintet (feat. Josemi Carmona)+Chano Dominguez Flamenco Qtet
Jazz-meets-flamenco
5 July 2010 / 19:30
Barbican Hall
Tickets: Â�18.00/22.50/27.50

Gilles Peterson & Roberto Fonseca present Havana Cultura Live New Cuba Sound
Celebrating Cuba's freshest musical talent in an event coinciding with DJ Gilles Peterson's latest album release.
6 July 2010 / 19:30
Barbican Hall
Tickets: Â�10/15/20

Ceu / Bomba Estereo
A night of samba-funk, reggae, bossa, cumbia and dance music all the way from Brazil and Colombia
15 July 2010 / 20:00
Hackney Empire
Tickets: Â�10 / 15

Django Drom: Celebrating Django Reinhardt
Featuring Didier Lockwood, Bireli Lagrene and Stochelo Rosenberg. Curated by Tony Gatlif
15 July 2010 / 20:30
Barbican Hall
Tickets: Â�15/20/25

Bela Fleck, Zakir Hussain & Edgar Meyer + Julian Lage Group
A harmonic convergence of virtuosity, bringing together three genre-bending masters: banjo star B�la Fleck, tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain, and composer and bass visionary Edgar Meyer.
16 July 2010 / 19:30
Barbican Hall
Tickets: Â�10/15/20/30

Toots and the Maytals + Lee 'Scratch' Perry and Max Romeo
One of Jamaica's true musical legends hosts an evening of classic reggae and ska as part of a special weekend focusing on the roots of Caribbean music.
17 July 2010 / 19:30
Barbican Hall
Tickets: Â�15/20/25

In Their Own Worlds: Giant Sand featuring Kristin Hersh and more guests
A special one-off performance featuring new collaborations, hosted by alt country troubadour Howe Gelb and his band, to mark the 25th anniversary of their first album
22 July 2010 / 19:30
Barbican Hall
Tickets: Â�15/18/20

Mayra Andrade / Gurrumul
Morna with Brazilian samba and francophone romance, plus indigenous Australian singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Gurrumul
24 July 2010 / 19:30
Barbican Hall
Tickets: Â�12.50/18/22.50

Toto la Momposina / La Mojarra Electrica
A very special concert marking the bicentenary of Colombia's independence
25 July 2010 / 19:30
Barbican Hall
Tickets: Â�10 / 15 / 20

To get your 20% discount by booking two or more Blaze Festival shows, click the buy now button below.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Martha Reeves & The Vandellas headline 10TH Croydon Summer Festival

Martha Reeves and the Vandellas are headlining this year's free World Party held at the Lloyd Park, Croydon on Saturday, 31 July.
The festival kicks off at 1pm and closes at 8.30pm.

Other acts on the bill are The Lightning Seeds, The Damned, Rox, Nhasitafara, and IDMC Gospel Choir. Previous headliners included Roy Ayers and Candi Staton. The Festival is for all the family to enjoy and includes a Street theatre, workshops, funfair, bowling green, disc golf, wall of death and designated children's areas.

The Croydon Mela will be staged on the followind day, Sunday 1 August, and will feature Jassi Sidhu, Taz, Raghu Dixit, Eternal Taal, Baluji Shrivastav, Kiranpal, among others.

And it's all free!

For further information please visit www.croydonsummerfestival.org

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Drake postpones european leg of The Away From Home tour

Hip Hop megastar Drake has had to postpone the European leg of his egerly awaited 'The Away From Home' tour due to a family emergency. The dates are rescheduled to this coming November; All tickets will be honoured.

Drake "Despite my best hopes, it is apparent that my mother will need surgery earlier than anticipated. In light of this news, I have made the difficult decision to cancel my European tour in order to support her during her recovery, just as she supported me through the years. I cannot thank my European fans enough and look forward to performing abroad soon. I ask everyone to please respect my family's privacy during this time."

While Drake will not be performing at the festivals Hove, Roskilde,
Wireless, Les Ardentes, Oxegen, and T in the Park â�� all of which will go on as scheduled - Drake will be announcing headline shows in each of the respective countries in the near future.

Postponed Tour Dates:

7/2 Arendal, Norway @ Hove Festival

7/3 Roskilde, Denmark @ Roskilde Festival

7/4 London, UK @ Wireless Festival

7/5 Paris, France @ La Cigale

7/7 Amsterdam, Holland @ Paradiso

7/8 Liege, Belgium @ Les Ardentes Festival

7/9 Kildare, Ireland @ Oxegen Festival

7/10 Kinross, Scotland @ T in the Park â�� Future's Tent

7/12 London, UK @ Shepherd's Bush Empire

7/13 London, UK @ Shepherd's Bush Empire

Drake will return to 'The Away From Home Tour' for the Canadian dates, which remain as scheduled.

Canadian Tour Dates:

7/16 Ottawa, ON @ Cisco Ottawa Bluesfest 2010

7/17 St. John's, NB @ Harbour Station

7/18 Montreal, @ Metropolis

7/21 Winnipeg @ Centennial Hall

7/23 Saskatoon, SK@ Credit Union Centre

7/24 Edmonton @ Edmonton Events Centre

7/25 Calgary, AB @ The Big 4

7/27 Vancouver @ Centre For Performing Arts

8/01 OVO Festival @ Molson Amphitheatre

For up to date, confirmed announcements and information, visit Drake's blog octobersveryown.blogspot.com and myspace.com/thisisdrake the official MySpace page for Drake.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Prince to release new album '20TEN' in July + We have album Track names & Tour new

The unmistakeable talent that is Prince is set to release his new album '20TEN' this July and as before it will be on his own label + (we think) given away free on the cover of a glossy as he did previously in 2007 when â��Planet Earth' was released as a free cover-mount CD with the Mail on Sunday newspaper (remember?)

The first phase of the release (their words) will take place in July 2010 when The Mirror and Daily Record in Britain, Rolling Stone Magazine in Germany, Courrier International in France and Belgium's Het Nieuwblad newspaper will cover-mount â��20TEN', Prince's twenty seventh studio album.

Prince wrote, produced and recorded the album, which is described as having "strong funk and new wave elements". Recorded at Paisley Park, '20TEN' features guest appearances by saxophonist Maceo Parker and singers Shelby J, Liv Warfield and Elisa Dease.

'20TEN' TRACK LISTING:
1. Compassion
2. Beginning Endlessly
3. Future Love Song
4. Sticky Like Glue
5. Act Of God
6. Lavaux
7. Walk In Sand
8. Sea Of Everything
9. Everybody Loves Me

There are no London shows announced yet (maybe he's had enough of the o2 - or the other way around!?).... But we have been told in true Prince fashion no two shows are the same as Prince will be joined on stage by Morris Hayes and Cassandra O'Neal (keyboards), Cora Coleman (drums), Josh Dunham (bass), Elisa Dease, Shelby Johnson & Olivia Warfield (vocals) and Fredrick Yonnet (harmonica).

'20TEN' - JULY TOUR DATES:

4th July - Roskilde Festival - Denmark
5th July - Waldbuhne - Berlin
9th July - La Citadelle - Arras, France
10th July - Werchter Festival Park - Belgium
12th July - Stade De Geneve - Geneva
13th July - Wiener Stadthalle - Vienna
18th July - Super Bock Super Rock Festival - Portugal
25th July - Espace Nikaia â�� Nice

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Unsigned and aged 16-25? Win studio time @Roundhouse

Are you 16-25/an emerging talent, who's got what it takes to get to the top? Good! So, do fancy winning some recording time in the Roundhouse's EMI Live Music Studio, along with top guest producers to record and mix your track for free... Thought you might. Just read on for details...

The Roundhouse has joined forces with EMI Music for the second year for 30/30 - 30 days, 30 bands, 30 great tracks. a groundbreaking youth music project designed to cultivate and develop new and emerging talent. What that means is, every day this September, 30/30 will offer 30 young unsigned artists one free day of recording time in the Roundhouse's EMI Live Music Studio, along with top guest producers to professionally record and mix their track for free.

On 13 October, the 30 lucky acts chosen by the Roundhouse team will have the opportunity to put their questions to a panel of experts from all areas of the industry - from artist management and marketing, through to publishing and A&R. Everyone will get a fair crack of the whip as 30/30 is non-genre specific and aims to attract an eclectic variety of artists - and that could mean you!

Last year's project was a huge success, attracting submissions from hundreds of aspiring artists, which culminated in the 30/30 Compilation Album 2009, a collection of 30 tracks featuring artists such as Ghosts You Echo, Hella Better Dancer and Ken Kobayashi, all of which have since signed recording deals with the Roundhouse's in-house label, Roundhouse Records.

www.roundhouse.org.uk to download an application form and submit their track via Soundcloud â�� the deadline is 16 July.

SO WHAT YOU WAITING FOR?

Other interesting Roundhouse info....

Roundhouse Emerging Artist Membership
Roundhouse Emerging Artist membership offers musicians unique benefits including the hire of facilities at special rates, the first session free when enrolling on a Roundhouse Studios project and exemption from booking fees on Roundhouse tickets.

Membership is Â�15 a year:
- exclusively for 25s and under
- hire of Roundhouse Studio facilities at special rates (13-25s)
- first session free when you enrol on a Roundhouse Studios project
- priority booking/advance notice when available
- 10% discount on hot and soft drinks in the Roundhouse Caf�
- exclusive news updates by email
- no online booking fees on 6 tickets per year

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

A cooool club night comes to the capital 'The Good Foot' @Madame JoJo's

Madame Jojo's has brought together two of the UK's most acclaimed DJ's, Snowboy and Healer Selecta, for a Friday night residency, 'The Good Foot'. Featuring original and authentic Sixties and Seventies Deep Funk, Soul, Rare Groove, Boogaloo, Mambo and R&B, this is an incomparable feel-good blend of floor-shaking tunes from it's most legendary eras!

Named after James Brown's classic 'Get On The Good Foot', the night is set to rock the dancefloor at Madame Jojo's, but this music is for anyone and everyone who loves an all-out party euphoria. Snowboy is the original co-founder of the awesome global phenomenon that is 'Deep Funk', and Healer Selecta is the founder and host of the the celebrated artists' collective 'Raison D'Etre'. Both can take credit for presiding over some of the UK's most successful music and dance events, and both are key figures in their own musical and dance genres. The Good Foot is brought to you by two passionate and proven experts in their fields, so you're in very safe hands!

FULL DETAILS OF THIS ESSENTAL WEEKLY:

'The Good Foot' @Madame JoJo's in proud association with Blues & Soul Magazine and Vintage at Goodwood every Friday.

Doors: 10pm-3am, Â�8 all night, cash on the door or tickets in advance

Resident DJ's: SnowBoy & Healer Selecta

Music Policy: 'Floor-shaking 60's and 70's Deep Funk, Soul, Rare Groove, Boogaloo, Mambo & R&B... In short; TUNE after TUNE!

See you there!!!!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

X Factor's Brenda Edwards star's in the West End musical 'We Will Rock You'

Having wowed the audiences with her powerhouse performances as Killer Queen in the recent touring production of Queen and Ben Elton's We Will Rock you, the former X Factor finalist Brenda Edwards is joining the West End production of the award winning show.

She will replace Mazz Murray who is taking a break to have a baby. Brenda makes her first appearance with the London production staged at the Dominion Theatre on Monday, 21 June. She joins the cast for a strictly limited ten week season before embarking on a lengthy British and international tour of the show, kicking off in Manchester in December 2010.

Show co-creator Brian May said â�� Brenda is irrepressible, scary, funny, and a killer singer. The lot! â�� I have no doubt she will Rock the Dominion. Having been the final woman in X Factor 2005, Brenda Edwards became much sought after by West End casters. She first performed in 'Chicago The Musical' followed by a role in Carmen Jones. Playing high profile concerts as headliner or special guest has ensured her growing popularity. Thus proving you don't have to win X Factor to enjoy a successful career! 'We Will Rock You' is now in its 9th year and has played before over four million people. A review of the show with Brenda Edwards will be featured shortly.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

'Dusty In Deutschland' DVD

Zone Records has successfully negotiated with WDR in Germany for the dvd release of Dusty Springfield's 1969 tv special, produced in Cologne by Bob Rooyens. As a bonus, Dusty's appearance at the 'Gala-Abend der Schallplatte (Pop) Berlin 1969' earlier in the year, is also included.

Both shows are in colour and the dvd is Region 0 which is playable worldwide. The dvd is accompanied by a four-page colour booklet. 'Dusty In Deutschland' includes: 'Son Of A Preacher Man', 'I Close My Eyes And Count To Ten', 'I Think It's Gonna Rain Today', 'Ain't No Sun Since You've Been Gone', 'The Windmills Of Your Mind', 'Love Power', 'Come Back To Me', 'Just A Little Lovin' (Early In The Morning)' and 'Sunny'. 'Gala-Abend der Schallplatte (Pop) Berlin 1969' contains: 'Come Back To Me', 'Son Of A Preacher Man' and 'I Close My Eyes And Count To Ten'.

For further information about this very special dvd, slotted for September 2010 release, please contact dustybulletin@aol.com

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Former Temptation Ali Ollie Woodson Dies

More sad news. Former Temptation Ollie Woodson died on 30 May 2010 following a long battle with leukaemia. He was 58 years old.

Prior to joining The Temptations in 1984, Ollie sang with The Drifters and Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes (post-Teddy Pendergrass). He also guested with a host of acts like Freda Payne, and was backing vocalist for Aretha Franklin and Whitney Houston, among others. But he enjoyed high profile acclaim when he joined The Temptations during a period that wasn't their finest hour , as it involved Dennis Edwards leaving them and their move from Motown to Atlantic Records.

In time The Temptations returned to Motown with Dennis in the line-up but success wasn't immediate. When Dennis left for a second time, Ollie took over lead vocals and can he heard on the brilliant 'Truly For You' album, where he easily earned a place alongside senior members of the group. Ollie also brought his composing skills into the group when he co-penned the group's international million seller 'Treat Her Like A Lady'. He can next be heard on 'To Be Continued..' and looked to be settled into the line-up until Dennis Edwards returned again to replace him. Within a year, Dennis left again, with Ollie replacing him, until 1996 when he left The Temptations for good.

Ollie's future included acting, touring with other former Temptations - Damon Harris and Richard Street â�� before creating 'The Emperors Of Soul' performing Motown classics, including The Temptations' hits of course, across the world. Five years after leaving the group, Expansion Records released his first solo album 'Right Here All Along', and during 2009 he issued his second outing 'Never Give Up' on his own Ollywood Records. Also this year, he guested on super group Tour De 4Force's debut cd 'Quiet Moon' on two tracks 'Four Walls' and 'Heaven Bound'.

At time of writing, no funeral plans have been made. On behalf of us all at Blues & Soul, I'm sending our heartfelt condolences to Ollie's family and friends, and like fans across the world, we'll mourn our loss.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

LIONEL RICHIE TEAMS UP WITH ENRIQUE IGLESIAS

Lionel Richie has collaborated with Enrique Iglesias on 'I Like It', the Spanish singer's new English-language single.

The upbeat track samples Lionel's 1983 hit 'All Night Long (All Night)'. The single, currently available, is lifted from Enrique's new album 'Euphoria' due for 6 July 2010 release.

He called it his most diverse, eclectic collection to date, and the title is, he said, the perfect name for a collection of songs all about setting your problems aside and having some fun.

Lionel and Enrique previously worked together on the duet 'To Love A Woman', a top twenty British hit in 2003.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Mick Hucknall to front The Faces reunion gig at Vintage Festival

Exciting news!! 1970s 'supergroup' The Faces look set to reform this summer... "But you don't cover The Faces" you say. But we do when the lead singer is none other than Simply Red's Mick Hucknall. This exciting happening will be at the Vintage at Goodwood Festival this August 13....

The reformed Faces will feature original members Ronnie Wood, Kenney Jones and Ian McLagan, plus Glen Matlock (Sex Pistols), and vocals from Mick Hucknall (of Simply Red). When the group got together to receive a lifetime achievement award at the PRS Awards last year Hucknall, Paul Carrack, and Andy Fairweather Low featured as guest vocalists on that night. This has since proved a trigger to form a reunion with Hucknall once more at the helm. So why not indeed...

At this years Vintage festival The Faces will perform hits like â��Stay with me' and â��Ooh La La' on the main â��Inspired By' Stage, and will be complemented on-site with five clubs each recreating respective decades with unparalleled authenticity including: The Torch Club (1940s); Let It Rock (1950s); The Leisure Dome (1960s); Soul Casino (1970s); and The Warehouse and Roller Disco (1980s). This inspired edition to the festival calendar, will feature world renowned DJs and bands spanning 5 decades - plus the best new contemporary artists whose work owes a debt to these legends and icons.

As previously reported, the Vintage at Goodwood festival will take place 13-15 August and will combine the best of British cool from the 1940s â�� 1980s ranging: music, fashion, art, design and culture across 240 acres on the Goodwood Estate, and is undoubtedly THE summer must!

VINTAGE AT GOODWOOD TICKET INFORMATION:

Ticketline: 01243 755 055 (10.00am â�� 16.00pm, Monday to Friday)

Adult Weekend Camping + General Admission - Â�150

Adult Weekend General Admission - Â�135

Adult General Admission - Â�55 / day

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Listen To Estelle's new album before anyone else tonight!

Stop press.... stop press.... stop press.... stop press... stop...

Tonight, Thursday May 20th, at 7pm GMT, Estelle will be doing a live UStream Chat on her official website www.EstelleMusic.com She will also be releasing a snippet of one of the brand new tracks from her forthcoming album...

Estelle will send out a link on her Twitter profile, twitter.com/estelledarlingsÂ�Â�allowing her fans to join her website and listen to the tune in full, before it's heard anywhere else in the world.

Will give you someting to twitter about later won't it?;)

www.EstelleMusic.com
twitter.com/estelledarlings

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Reggae stars put stamp of island magic on Disney classics with the Disney reggae club

On 8 June 2010 the magic of Disney meets the magical isle of Jamaica, as Walt Disney Records plan to release an album of classic Disney songs newly recorded by a cross-section of top reggae musicians.

The cd features songs from immortal animated films like 'The Little Mermaid' and 'The Jungle Book' through to 'The Lion King' and more, recorded by Grammy award winning reggae artists. These include UB40, Matisyahu, Toots (of Toots & the Maytals' fame), Ziggy Marley, Sly & Robbie, Cedella Marley, Burning Spear, among others.

'Circle Of Life' from 'The Lion King' by Matisyahu; 'The Bare Necessities' from 'The Jungle Book' by Steel Pulse; 'You've Got A Friend' from 'Toy Story' by UB40, and 'Under The Sea' from 'The Little Mermaid' by Gregory Isaacs, are just a few of the tracks included on this compilation.

"The genius of Disney songs is that they're timeless and adaptable to every musical genre said executive producer Brian Malouf. Reggae is so joyous and spirited, we knew these songs would lend themselves perfectly. I'm happy to say the artists, many of them true legends of reggae, all jumped at the chance to participate."

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Win a chance to fly to LA and appear in the next Taio Cruz music video

You could get the chance to go to LA (flight and accommodation provided!) Where you will appear in the latest Taio Cruz music video... And No I'm not kidding!? Taio is searching the world for an aspiring female model/dancer to perform in his upcoming music video.

With Cruz becoming ultra hot property having taken the world by storm with his US and UK smash hit 'Break Your Heart'. This chance really is one in a million!... Not just in the kudos stakes but could potently launch the winner into the stella league in the model or dancer fields.

To win the chance to perform alongside the man himself, you need to submit a 60 second video of you walking and dancing to his hit song 'Break Your Heart' (And send it to me! haha, only joking!?). Keep it sexy, tasteful and professional and send it to www.talenthouse.com by MONDAY 10th MAY!

Voting will take place from Tuesday May 11 until Thursday May 13. The top voted submissions will be presented to Taio so he can make the final selection. Flights and accommodation will be provided for the selected participant... So, If you want to be in with a chance, you need to send your audition tape by MONDAY 10th MAY! So hurry up and get those video's submitted!!!

Did I mention it was THIS MONDAY 10th MAY!;)) Hee.

GOOD LUCK!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Where art meets music meets film

James Bartling's yet to be released, indie-to-the-max film, 'Nostalgia' chronicles specific real-life events from April to July 1996. It's his personal story, has taken eight years to make, and encompasses a unique creative process.

James formed his own production company, Twilight Child Productions in 2000 to produce a series of film-related projects for international audiences. 'Nostalgia' is unique because it's non-fiction down to the spoken word (a micro recorder was used to record dialogue during the events in question), with everyone appearing as themselves. Many of the actual locations were used while shooting; in essence, re-creating particular moments in time as soon as possible after the fact.Â� This combination has never been used in film before.Â�In addition, the entire music score consists solely of the human voice, which is also a first for cinema.Â�

Over thirty individuals contributed to the score of 'Nostalgia' - vocalists and compositions are from numerous ethnic backgrounds, with genres ranging from classical to tribal.Â� The recordings range from one-take solos to quarter-second edits, and create a musical landscape unlike any other.

Although the film hasn't been released... soundtrack is available Amazon & ITunes

Ex-Supreme Susaye Greene devised and painted the film's poster which is available from supremextreme.imagekind.com

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Shank set to open big stylee

British independent movie SHANK is set to be this years surprise smash hit, with social network and online figures breaking records before the film is even released...

Today the film's facebook fan page surpasses the 26,000 fans mark, just 9 weeks after it was launched. This is officially the fastest increase and count for any new pre-release non-sequel British film. It features Bashy - Adam Deacon (Kidulthood/Adulthood), Kaya Scodelario (Skins) Michael Socha (Summer, Soft) + new talent Jan Uddin and Kedar Williams-Stirling.

The HUGE soundtrack is out now and features artists such as Tinchy Stryder, Speech Debelle, Skepta, Tinie Tempah, Roll Deep, Devlin, Tempa T, Donaeo, Skepta and many more - 'When The Sky Falls' is the lead track - Bashy ft Loick Essien.

What's the film about? Haven't a clue!! But 26,000 people can't be wrong!;)

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Shalamar announce April dates + special guests

Standby for 'A Night to Remember' as '80s supergroup Shalamar return to the UK this April for just four exclusive dates. They are supported by British soul's very own Kenny Thomas and X-Factor winner Steve Brookstein.

Here's a little up-date to jog your memory (ok I know you know, but just in case).... Shalamar have a string of hits at the back-end of the '70s then on through the '80s with songs such as 'Take That To The Bank' (1978), 'I Owe You One' (1980) and 1982's 'I Can Make You Feel Good', 'A Night to Remember'Â�, 'There It Is' and 'Friends'. The group reformed in 2005, with original members Jeffrey Daniel, Howard Hewett, and with new singer Carolyn Griffey (long time friend and daughter of Shalamar founder and Solar Record boss Dick Griffey).

It was Shalamars' Jeffery Daniel who helped to introduce 'body-popping' to these shores and first brought the 'Moonwalk' to our attention. A young Michael Jackson, who being a fan of the group, and in particular Daniel (after watching his dance moves on Soul Train) was inspired by Daniel. This dancer extraordinare went on to teach Michael the Moonwalk and choreographed his 'Bad' and 'Smooth Criminal' videos... The rest as they say is History.

So expect some first class singing and some out of this world dancing!

ALL THE TOUR INFO BELOW:

Thursday April 15th Circus Tavern Purfleet Essex
Ticket Price Â�30 & Â�25 (Standing)
Box Office: 01708 863838
www.circustavernnightclub.com

Friday April 16th Grand Opera House, York
Ticket Price Â�28.50 Box Office: 0844 847 2322
www.GrandOperaHouseYork.org.uk

Saturday April 17th Oasis Centre Swindon
Ticket Price Â�28.50 & Â�26.50
Box Office: 01793 445401
www.swindon.gov.uk/oasisevents

Sunday April 18th New Theatre Oxford
Ticket Price Â�30.50 & Â�27.50
Box Office: 0844 847 1585
www.NewTheatreOxford.org.uk

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Diana Ross tour dates 2010 - More Today Than Yesterday

Diana Ross has announced a series of dates across America during May and June 2010. Under the banner of 'More Today Than Yesterday'.

Diana will be pulling out all the stops with breathtaking costumes and stage designs, along with a live string and horn section. The legendary icon will perform her greatest hits in a spectacular live show. Fans are hoping Diana Ross will bring her show to the UK. Meantime, the dates so far are -

15 - Mayâ��Boston, MAâ��Citi Performing Arts Centerâ��On sale 19-Mar 10:00 AMâ��â��

16 - Mayâ��Mashantucket, CTâ��MGM Grand Theater at Foxwoodsâ��On sale 26-Mar 10:00 AMâ��â��

18-Mayâ��Red Bank, NJâ��Count Basie Theatreâ��On Sale Nowâ��

19 - Mayâ��New York, NYâ��Radio City Music Hallâ��On Sale 29-Mar 10:00 AMâ��â��

21 - Mayâ��Atlantic City, NJâ��Caesars Atlantic Cityâ��On Sale 20-Mar 12:00 PMâ��â��

25 - Mayâ��Bethesda, MDâ��Music Center at Strathmoreâ��On Sale 20-Mar 10:00 AMâ��â��

27 - Mayâ��Chicago, ILâ��Chicago Theatreâ��On Sale 27-Mar 11:00 AMâ��â��

28 - Mayâ��Cleveland, OHâ��State Theatreâ��On Sale 26-Mar 11:00 AMâ��â��

29 - MayDetroit, MIâ��Fox Theatreâ��On Sale 20-Mar 10:00 AMâ��â��

31 - Mayâ��Toronto, ONâ��Roy Thomson Hallâ��On Sale 27-Mar 12:00 PMâ��â��

2 - Junâ��Knoxville, TNâ��Tennessee Theatreâ��On Sale 19-Mar 10:00 AMâ��â��

4 - Junâ��Atlanta, GAâ��Chastain Park Amphitheatreâ��On Sale 12-Apr 10:00 AMâ��â��

5 - Junâ��Memphis, TNâ��Live At The Gardenâ��On Sale 19-Apr 10:00 AMâ��â��

6 - Junâ��St. Louis, MOâ��Fox Theatreâ��On Sale 27-Mar 10:00 AMâ��â��

9 - Junâ��Los Angeles, CAâ��NOKIA Theatre L.A. LIVEâ��On Sale 26-Mar 10:00 AMâ��â��

11 - Junâ��San Diego, CAâ��Humphrey'sâ��On Sale 10-Apr 10:00 AMâ��â��

12 - Junâ��Saratoga, CAâ��The Mountain Wineryâ��On Sale 26-Apr 10:00 AM

For further information visit Diana Ross's official Facebook page â�� www.facebook.com/dianaross

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Win Soul sensation N'Dambi tickets

If you are not familiar with the silky soulful tones of N'Dambi then you'll be in for a veritable soul/funk treat - a real 'must see' even (check out our HMV listening post for a sneaky listen). The striking vocalist, pianist and composer from Dallas, Texas, known for her signature afro and distinctive style, possesses the intuitive perception and powerful creativity that ensures an essential contribution to modern R&B and soul.

And as this, superstar in the making, drops fine tune after fine tune from her debut stand-out album 'Pink Elephant', she still manages to ingeniously distill soul-deep inspiration into a sensual style of elegance and power - making her a fundamental new addition to the Stax legacy. Be prepared for definite influences from the likes of the funky soul infused Bar-Kays' Larry Dodson, the sophisticated syncopation of Earth, Wind & Fire's Maurice White and the notorious abandon of the Ohio Players' Sugafoot which come flowing through from delicate start to delicious finish.... Artists don't come more hotly tipped than N'Dambi...

If you would like to win a pair of tickets to see our tip for the top N'Dambi in action at London's Jazz Cafe on March 31st, then answer our N'Dambi related question...

What is the name of N'Dambi's latest album - is it...

A) PINK ELEPHANT
B) BLUE HIPPO
C) WHITE MICE (yum yum)

Answers, Names, Addresses and PHONE NUMBERS to: competitions@bluesandsoul.com N'DAMBI in the subject box please.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch 'We Are The World' Haiti

Originally recorded by supergroup USA for Africa in 1985 - written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie and now brought up to date by a veritable who's who in the music world in aid of the Haiti earth quake disaster...

I don't think I have to say to much here, except here is the video and if you can give to help vital aid reach fellow humanbeings - then please, please, please give a chance of life www.unicef.org.uk/give/

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Soul Breakout �59: Various Artists

I haven't hear Jerry Butler's 'Lost' for many a year, so it was like welcoming back an old friend. This guy was capable of digging into his very soul to release emotions that affected us all at one point in our lives. His Ice Man period was sublime and his solo work and duets with Thelma Houston at Motown were quite stunning.

Anyway, this is a compilation Sharon, so get a grip. There's also a smattering of early Motown here with Marv Johnson's 'Come To Me' and The Miracles' 'Bad Girl', plus future signings The Isley Brothers' 'Shout (Part One)'. There's the powerhouse vocals of Baby Washington on 'The Time' and 'The Bells (On Our Wedding Day)' which both sit easily with the shrill yet soulful voices of The Shirelles with their classic 'Dedicated To The One I Love'. The smooth, easy listening 'Guess Who' from Jesse Belvin competes with the warm chorus and the string introduction on the mildly chugging Brook Benton track 'Endlessly'.

Then there's Ray Charles, The Drifters, Sam Cooke â�� names that are as significant today as they were back in 1959. Thirty tracks here from the year and all R&B and/or pop hits. Smashing!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Visit Chris Ofili's Exhibition at Tate Britain: �Hip Hop spirit in Art'

Hip Hop never looked so good as Chris Ofili who is without a doubt one of the UK's most famous homegrown black artists. Having won the Turner Prize in 1998 aged 30, having been inspired by growing up in Manchester in the 1980's, religious viewpoints and his love of Hip Hop Culture.

You can catch his work at the Tate Britain now - including his famous 'No Woman No Cry' painting - the piece he created in the aftermath of the Stephen Lawrence murder. The exhibition will bring together approximately 45 paintings from the mid 1990s onwards, and shows the use of Hip Hop titles/artists in his works and exhibitions. e.g. 'Devils Pie' by D'angelo, 'The Healer' by Erykah Badu and 'Pimpin aint Easy' by Big Daddy Kane.

In a recent interview by Ekow Eshun from the Chris Ofili exhibition catalogue, Ofili talked about his influences thus I was drawn to (William) Blake's image first as a watercolourâ��At the same time I was interested in how Snoop Dogg could sing quite vulgar lyrics with a sweet, smooth West Coast voice, in the coming together of the rough and the smooth. I was curious about trying to make older ideas contemporary and new, and somehow have a relationship to hip-hop culture. I'm sure you'll agree both an interesting and intriguing exhibition in the making.

If you take our advise and visit the exhibition, you'll be quids in if you're under 26 as entry will only cost you a fiver! Tate Britain has created a special youth ticket: anyone under the age of 26 can enter the exhibition for Â�5 â�� usual price is Â�10 full price and Â�8.50 for concessions. Just bring along some ID to get this special offer.

As we do like a list here, we'd just like to round off with an interesting list of Hip Hop artists that influenced the artist and his work (not in order of preference):

Notorious BIG â�� 10 crack commandments
Common â�� Heaven somewhere
Method Mad â�� Bring the pain
Public Enemy â�� Public Enemy number 1
Erykah Badu â�� The Healer
Snoop Dogg â�� Gin & Juice
Wu Tang Clan â�� C.R.E.A.M
Jay-Z - Blueprint
A Tribe called Quest â�� The low end theory
The Roots â�� Clones
NAS â�� Illamtic
Mos Def - Black on both sides
Talib Kweli â�� Reflection eternal
Dizzee Rascal - Jezebel

EXHIBITION & USEFUL INFO:

CHRIS OFILI EXHIBITION

Dates: 27 January â�� 16 May 2010

Ticket Price: Over 26 yrs Â�10 full price and Â�8.50 for concessions/ Under 26 yrs Â�5 (with I-D)

Opening Times: 10.00 to 17.55 and 22.00 the first Friday of every month

Nearest Tube: Pimlico

Address:
Tate Britain,
Level 2 Galleries,
Millbank,
SW1P 4RG

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Leee John to perform at Pizza On The Park, Knightsbridge , London

Ex-Imagination front man, Leee John and his quartet (with John Watson on piano), will perform at Pizza On The Park, Knightsbridge on 16 February 2010. Doors open at 7pm and admission is Â�15.

Tracks from Leee's universally acclaimed jazz/soul album 'Feel My Soul' will be performed including his recent American top 20 hit 'Sensuality'. After sold-out tours in France where he performed at the renowned Jvc jazz festival and across the UK, he's due to release a new album. Also, with Imagination, Leee will be extensively touring across the UK from May. And, as if that wasn't enough, he's also preparing a documentary on the history of British Soul featuring interviews with numerous artists, producers and bands of the golden age of Brit Funk and Soul.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Angie Stone Tour News

Now this news is hard to beat - Angie Stone has just announced U.K tour dates... If you want full details then please read on. O and get them booked quick - these dates will sell out fast! Don't say we didn't warn you...

FULL ANGIE DATES:

MARCH:

Tue 2nd Edinburgh - Picture House
Wed 3rd Manchester - Academy
Thu 4th Birmingham - The Drum
Fri 5th London - Hammersmith Apollo

Don't forget B&S' Pete Lewis talks to the lady herself this month in a first class href="http://www.bluesandsoul.com/feature/500/angie_stone_hard_act_to_follow/" title="http://www.bluesandsoul.com/feature/500/angie_stone_hard_act_to_follow/">interview

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Fancy winning the chance to interview top celebs at top events around the world?

And you thought we were the only ones who travel round the world bringing you the interviews that matter... Ok, we are!? But how would you like to do the same - travel round the world and interview celebrities aplenty at top events - Fancy it? I thought so...

Paloma Faith, Jameela & Matt Horne are set to form part of a glittering A-list judging panel, to find the X6 All Areas entertainment reporter to cover some of the most exclusive events across the globe. You be invited to London to the Nokia X6 launch party on 3rd March. Then (get this), the winner will then be whisked off to Hollywood for Oscars week, stop off in Austria for the Snowbombing festival, hook up with Rihanna on her European tour, report from the racetrack at the Spanish Grand Prix and finally finish at the exclusive Belvedere Vodka party at Cannes Film Festival in May. Oooooo... Sorry that should be bigger WOOOOOOWhooooooooo! One of you lucky, lucky people out there will get the chance to cover those A1 events and more!!

The whole prize is the brainchild of mobile phone giant Nokia, as the winner of this off the hook prize (Opps sorry) will be dubbed 'Nokia's First Entertainment Reporter'. Ok, why this prize you ask? Well that's easy... It's to celebrate the launch of the X6 16GB, ultimate entertainment device. So if you're a budding showbiz reporter and live in the U.K - just submit a 60 second video clip of yourself in 'reporting mode', showing why they should be selected as the X6 All Areas entertainment reporter.

So what are you waiting for? Get interviewing and send your entries to http://www.nokia.co.uk/x6-all-areas

GOOD LUCK YA'LL!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch Timbaland and Katy Perry: If We Ever Meet Again

Here's the new tune from Timberland, this time featuring Katy Perry. The video sees the dynamic duo in a Thomas Crown type escapade with Timber-man doing some hysterical 'chin acting'. If We Ever Meet Again' Hmm perhaps not...

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Catch Krystle Warren @Jazz Cafe's next big thing

On 8th February Camden's Jazz Caf� plays host to not one, but two of our tips for the top for 2010. Krystle Warren and Rox play there as part of promoter HMV's 'Next Big Thing' - So prepare be entertained...

Warren was first tipped by us a few months ago (have I mentioned that?) as Warren became an over night sensation. With aid of piano, she single handedly silenced the often boisterous crowd on the Jools Holland show - who where in ore at her spell binding performance. Since then, her album (â��Circles' 22/2/10) is to be released at a rate of knots to meet demand, and the singer herself has been trying to spread herself in all directions (live-wise) to give her public what they want.

Just look at the quote B&S' Emry Baird has had lifted and I think you'll get the gist... KW has an emotional intensity few can match, soul baring, chest beating and fragile â�� it's all in there. The songs range from full on complex arrangements to just her and her instrument, either way this girl is in for the long haul. A star is born! BluesandSoul.com
We implore you to get along to see this hugely talented artist at such a vital stage of her career, for what is sure to be an outstanding evening (and tell her we sent ya!). Krystle Warren will be live at the Jazz Caf� â�� 8th February for HMV's 'Next Big Thing' followed by an intimate late-night run at Soho Theatre from Wednesday 24th to Saturday 27th February

FULL KRYSTLE DETAILS BELOW:

Monday 8th February - HMV â��Next Big Thing' with Rox and Andrea Triana at the Jazz Caf�
5, Parkway, Camden, NW1 7PG
Doors 7pm. Tickets Â�10
Ticketmaster: 0844 847 2514 / See Tickets: 0870 060 3777

Wednesday 24th â�� Saturday 27th February
4 nights in Soho at Soho Theatre
21 Dean Street, London, W1D 3NE
9.45 pm. Â�12
020 7478 0100 / www.sohotheatre.com/pl1833.html

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Red Bull gives you 30 nights of exclusive events

Red Bull Academy gives you 30 nights of exclusive events, including a series of gigs paying tribute to the past, present and future of London's musical culture. There is a star studded array of stars helping in this endeavor including...

Soul ll Soul, Goldie, Carl Craig, A Guy Called Gerald, Heritage Orchestra, Moodymann, The Scientist, Roots Manuva, Red Bull Music Academy alumnus Flying Lotus, and many more. They'll share studios and stages with the Academy class of 2010, which the organisers claim is the very essence of what the Red Bull Music Academy is all about.

The Academy would also like to give you a feel for the events as follows... Be it a gut-melting, four-way soundclash in the Roundhouse, the finest orchestral techno-jazz explorations served up in the Royal Festival Hall, a surround soundwave assault committed deep beneath one of London's most prestigious and iconic venues, or a full clip of Academy workshops, panels and performances at the ICA, the events bring a fresh menu to London's celebrated sentinels of culture.

But what's it all about I hear you ask and above all, what's in it for me? Also why should I grace this/these series of events with my presence... Well I'll tell ya... And please bare with me there is a lot...

THE EVENTS:

CULTURE CLASH:
Hosted by Don Letts this once in a lifetime Culture Clash will see Jazzie B's Soul II Soul, the mighty Trojan Sound System, Goldie's Metalheadz, and dubstep pioneers Digital Mystikz fight for the Roundhouse massive's favour with nothing but big tunes from their respective scenes.

A ROLLERSKATING JAM:
Named â��Red Bull Music Academy', featuring Moodymann & Horse Meat Disco Roller disco culture is a passion for mythical deep house renegade Moodymann. Known for preserving the rich heritage of Afro-American (sub-)culture with the utmost respect, he's done more to keep the roller disco phenomenon alive than any other human being on the planet with his Detroit regular Soul Skate. For this very special session at South London's Renaissance Rooms, he'll not only bring a box full of classic skating rink jams with him, but also ten of the motor city's most notorious four-wheeled dancers between 8 and 80 years of age.

3D AUDIOSCAPE INSTALLATION:
The first ever music event to be held in the cavernous Loading Bay of The Royal Albert Hall (I kid you not!?). The basement of the 138-year-old venue provides the battleground for what may be a glimpse into the future of live music. Multi-dimensional sound and vision will be blended live, immersing the audience in a landscape made of music. Armed with Martyn Ware's unique 3D Audioscape installation, sound scientists from revered British labels Ninja Tune and Warp Records will clash beneath this citadel of musical history â�� think some kind of audio version of Avatar.

A TASTE OF SONAR:
Flying Lotus, Hudson Mohawke, J-Wow of Buraka Som Sistema, Aloe Blacc and Mr Hudson have all been students at the Red Bull Music Academy at some stage of their remarkable careers. This is why, for the very first time in its longstanding partnership with the Barcelona-based festival, the Academy has been commissioned to curate the emerging talent stage at SÃ�nar's taster event in London.

RED BULL MUSIC ACADEMY @THE SOUTHBANK CENTRE:
In association with 'Resident Advisor'. The Red Bull Music Academy takes over the Royal Festival Hall on 12th February, with four collaborative acts who are currently at the forefront of exploring the grey areas of experimental electronics, jazz, laptop soul, and avantgarde music â�� each one renowned for flipping the formula and getting creative with their own methodologies. Like the contents of an entire weekend festival condensed into one very special evening of music. The mighty line up includes: Carl Craig (Planet E, Detroit), Francesco Tristano (Infin�, Barcelona), Moritz von Oswald (Basic Channel, Rhythm & Sound, Berlin), Matmos (Matador, Baltimore), Bugge Wesseltoft (Jazzland, Norway), Henrik Schwarz (Innervisions, Berlin), Terre Thaemlitz as DJ Sprinkles (Mule, New York City) and the Red Bull Music Academy Allstars.

SIN CITY (A Red Bull Music Academy Special):
The Red Bull Music Academy goes deep at Brixton's Plan B as Sin City introduces no less than three generations of bass wave pirates. Original Jamaican dub legend and King Tubby collaborator Scientist goes toe to toe with dubstep rudeboys Hatcha and N-Type, while legendary selector David Rodigan pulls out the biggest reggae and dancehall tunes from his box of dubs.

RED BULL MUSIC ACADEMY CONCERT & WORKSHOP AT THE ICA:
The ICA opens its doors for a Red Bull Music Academy-curated selection of lectures, workshops, panel discussions, concerts and showcases of music from the global underground scene. A cast of Academy studio tutors will break down studio magic with a remix workshop, while a panel of broadcasting's most lively personalities sits down to discuss the evolution of pirate radio with Contemporary Black Music Culture lecturer Jacqueline Springer. Techno maniac Drums Of Death and Stones Throw's psyche devotee b-boy James Pants will be performing live, while Academy participants will be re-fuelling your ears with tomorrow's nuggets on the wheels of steel.

Told ya, you'll be impressed... So what you waiting for - get booking!!!

BOOKING DETAILS AND HELPFUL LINKS:

Royal Festival Hall Ticket Office, open 10am-8pm (daily) or 0844 875 0073

www.redbullmusicacademyradio.com
www.redbullmusicacademy.com/ICA
www.southbankcentre.com
www.plasticpeople.co.uk
www.residentadvisor.net
www.plan-brixton.co.uk
www.ticketweb.co.uk
www.bookslam.com
www.ica.org.uk

It all takes place between February 7 â�� March 12, 2010

Workshop Term 1: February 7 â�� February 19, 2010
Workshop Term 2: February 28 â�� March 12, 2010

This video is taken from Tony Allen's recent visit to the Red Bull Academy for a 'Masterclass' from one of (some say THE best) drummer on the planet. With the help of the Hypnotic Brass Ensemble - The track is called 'Gypsy' and the venue is London's Cargo.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

R&B icon R.Kelly announces 'Ladies Make Some Noise' tour

HUGE NEWS! As Robert Kelly, the multi-platinum selling singer/songwriter known to his adoring fans as R.Kelly is returning to these shores for the first time in eight long years to play a series of dates as part of the 'Ladies Make Some Noise Tour'. All the details you will need follow...

In a career spanning 20 years and selling a staggering 50 million records across the world, R.Kelly has had over 30 hit singles in the UK alone. These sure to sell-out concerts will see R. Kelly take us back to the halcyon days of 'She's Got That Vibe', through to the timeless party anthem of 'Ignition' (Remix) and the feverishly addictive 'Trapped In the Closet' - along with all his other top R&B masterpieces and of course material from his new record, 'Untitled'.

FULL UK TOUR DATES (So far):

05th April Manchester Apollo

09th April London Hammersmith HMV Apollo

11th April Wolverhampton Civic Hall

Tickets go on sale on 22nd January at 9am from Ticketmaster and www.aeglive.co.uk 08444 775 775

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch Jay-Z and Mr Hudson 'Young Forever'

â��Young Forever' is the brand new single by JAY-Z featuring the UK's very own Mr Hudson. It follows the phenomenal #2 single â��Empire State Of Mind' and the #1 smash hit, â��Run This Town', all taken from the UK Gold-certified, Top 5 critically-acclaimed album - THE BLUEPRINT 3.

TB3 has been nominated five times at the 52nd annual Grammy Awards for Best Rap Solo Performance, Best Rap/Sung Collaboration, Best Rap Performance By A Duo Or Group and Best Rap Song For â��D.O.A(Death Of Auto-Tune)' and â��Run This Town'. Easy picking me thinks, but we'll see - Jay's album was one of the hottest on the planet last year and the hit's are still coming thick and fast.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Last chance to catch Sylvia Powell on her coffee shop tour

We previously brought you the story of singer/songwriter (and Kylie's former label mate) Sylvia Powell's endeavors to launch herself via a UK tour of independent Coffee Houses, which ran over the last few months. For your last chance to catch her in this unique fashion, just get yourself along to London's Troubadour coffee house on the 26th of January.

Sylvia's blend of soul, jazz and folk suits the intimacy and atmosphere of a coffee house. Especially with her rich, dulcet tones and the â��confessional' element to her writing. Sylvia says, The coffee house tour was great, the response from the coffee houses and their customers was brilliant. Most of the venues had never put on live music before but all are now planning to make it a regular feature. I can't think of a more fitting end to this tour than performing at The Troubadour â�� â��the original coffee house.'

Here are all the full details, so don't be late!;)

DATE: 26th January 2010

TICKETS: Â�5 on the door

VENUE:
The Troubadour,
263-267 Old Brompton Road,
London,
SW5 9JA

TIMES: Doors 7pm, Sylvia onstage at 9pm

SUPPORT: Skinny Lister, Randolph Matthews [between 8 and 9pm]

DJ AJ Kwame [after Sylvia]

See you there!!!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Whitney Houston to release 25TH Anniversary edition of debut album

On 26 January 2010 Arista Records will release the 25th Aniversary edition of 'Whitney Houston', the debut album that catapulted a virtually unknown artist into superstardom in 1985.

The 25th Anniversary Edition cd/dvd package includes the album â�� remastered in its entirety - along with five bonus tracks including Whitney's a cappella recording of 'How Will I Know', and a live performance of 'Greatest Love Of All'. As an added bonus for fans, this release also includes a features-packed dvd. Three rare tv performances are included â�� 'I Am Changing' from the1982 Broadway production of 'Dreamgirls', performed live at the Arista Records' 10th Anniversary celebration in1985; 'You Give Good Love' performed live at the first annual Soul Train Awards Show in 1987, and 'Home' from 'The Wiz' performed on the Merv Griffin Show in 1983.

Plus four music videos â�� 'You Give Good Love', 'Saving All My Love For You', 'How Will I Know' and 'Greatest Love Of All'. Exclusive and newly filmed interviews with Whitney and Clive Davis round off the bonus dvd. Whitney - I cannot believe it has been twenty five years since my first album. I could never have done this without the support, encouragement and unconditional love from my fans all over the world. I love you all!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

SADE to release new album 'SOLDER OF LOVE'

Remember 'Your Love Is King' and 'Smooth Operator'? Well, Sade is back! On 9 February 2010 she will release her 6th studio album 'Soldier Of Love' which is also her first since 'Lover's Rock' in 2000.

Recorded last year at Peter Gabriel's Real World studio near her home in south west England, the album is said to be her most ambitious to date. I couldn't have made â��Soldier Of Love' any time before now Sade said And, though it's been a long wait for the fans â�� and I am sorry about that â�� I'm incredibly proud of it. Psst. I've heard the album's title track and it's quite unlike anything she's ever done before, so this cd is eagerly awaited.

Official Website:

sade.com

Connect with Sade on the following sites:â��

www.myspace.com/sade

www.facebook.com/sadeofficial

www.twitter.com/sadeofficial

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch Zolo's video for Computer Freak

Here's a viddy that you could easily term as 'Marmite' as Zolo introduces us to his 'Computer Freak'. RichRoc directed and produced this tongue-in-cheek video, which luckily enough, doesn't take itself too seriously.

Time to turn your auto-tune to max, take you brain outta gear for a few mins. Oh, and I'll also warn you now, you'll be humming the chorus when you least expect it!?!

You can't say we don't give you choice!?

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch Sidney Samson 'Riverside' (Let's Go)

Here's a bit of a treat for ya as we bring you an absolutely huge tune care of one Sidney Samson - who you ask? ... Well, put it this way, you won't be asking that question for long....

This tune is due out on the 4th of January and if you have a quick look on You Tube there's an amusing video with a slightly more, shall we say, adult theme.... Woah-woah! Before you disapear, have a gander at Sidney's version, which is defo worth a watch.

Oh, and look out for the Riverside dance - I like the one's you can do sitting down... haven't had as much fun since 'Oops Up Side Your Head!?'

Enjoy!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch Leona Lewis' video for 'I See You' from the movie Avatar

Here's a bit of a treat for you, as we bring you the new video from the divine tones of Ms Leona Lewis - it's the lead track from the new James (Titanic) Cameron film Avatar. Huge film... Humungus tune called 'I See You'... Not if I see you first Leona!?;)

Interesting fact... The Avatar soundtrack has already been Golden-Globe-nominated (officially titled Avatar: Music From The Motion Picture)... Watch this space come awards season...

And here is the new video- enjoy!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch Drake, Eminem, Lil' Wayne and Kanye West video for 'Forever'

From one of our ones to watch in 2010 we have the new tune from rap artist Drake - the video is 'Forever' and features a plethora of hip-hop glitterati, also known as Eminem, Lil' Wayne and Kanye West - endorsement indeed.

Single is out December 21 - Drakes album is out now (reviewed in the hip hop section).

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch Beyonce's hot video for 'Video Phone' Feat Lady GAGA

'Video Phone' marks the first-time collaboration between superstar Beyonc� and the fabulous Lady GaGa, where they have teamed up to create a high octane, visually stunning video together. 'Video Phone' is directed by music legend Hype Williams.

Due for release on December 14th... Nice lil' stocking filler for xmas I say - no not Lady Gaga!? I was talking about Beyonce! Tee-Hee

Enjoy the video...

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch Wiley's new video***** 'Take That' - say no more!

Wiley's got his Rolex back and is about to hit the top end of the charts once more with the mega catchy 'Take That'... I'm thinking it's a kinda of grime answer to Dizzee's 'Bonkers' - Ok maybe it ain't - Please yourself!?

Whatever your view, it's a fine tune that'll be big on the dance floors and infomercials alike no doubt. I think he just might have a point as he sings "I've got the formula" - by jove I think he's got it!

Check it and see what you think... released 28th of December.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Orbital headline GuilFest Friday July 16th 2010

O happy day! B&S can this year safely bring you news on GilFest - Normally one to swerve as the band content is slightly (shall we say) heavier than we can normally report on. Orbital are on point on Friday July 16 - so full GuilFest details to follow...

ORBITAL, the grand masters of British Electronica (we cover that in dance don't you know), who have notched up 14 top 40 singles, and 7 Top 40 albums - will be bringing their legendary live set to Stoke Park for the first time at GuilFest 2010 on Friday 16th July.

We saw them headlining the Big Chill last year and have to say them Malven hills never looked so cool as the ambient sounds of Orbital washed over us (and no I'm not a hippie!?). Other live highlights include their 1994 Glastonbury performance (see 'Chime' performance from Glastonbury below) which earned the band a Q magazine award as one of the 50 greatest gigs of all time, and this year they are well deserved winners of DJ Magazine's â��Live Act Of The Year' Award 2009 as voted by the public.

If you're not to ofay with the boys then here's a lil' bit more about them; Orbital, who formed in 1989 are creators of some of the best known UK dance anthems in musical history; most notably 'Chime', 'Style', 'Belfast', 'The Box' and 'Satan' (I'd sing em to ya, but I'm not great at instrumentals!?). They were named after the London ring road that took their generation to illegal raves, the Hartnoll brothers from Sevenoaks are considered to be true innovators of techno music (the A225 was also on their list apparently as it goes to Sevenoaks from Tonbridge - not got the same 'ring' to it though if you forgive the pun).

Orbital join already announced headliners The Human League and Status Quo (see I told you!), who will perform on Saturday 17th July, and Sunday 18th July respectively. Other festival attractions include the nationally acclaimed Dance Tent, nominated for Best Dance Event award at the 2009 UK festival awards (a stage that has seen past performances from Pendulum, DJ Yoda, Krafty Kuts and Xpress2 amongst others), the Rock Cave, the Acoustic Stage, The Rock Disco, the 70s disco, the eFestivals Cosmic Comedy Stage, The Man In The Moon Theatre Tent, The UNISONzone, and the incredibly popular Farmer Giles' Barn Dance. As well as all this you can expect superb cocktail bars, street performers, great arts and crafts, a fabulous selection of food from around the world and, as usual, the massive 150' long bar means nobody has to wait very long for refreshment!

OTHER INTERESTING DETAILS:

Facilities adjacent to Stoke Park include The Guildford Lido which is only 2 minutes walk and The Spectrum Leisure Centre, great for hot showers, sauna or a swim. The historic town is itself only 10 minutes walk away and has shops, cafes restaurants, bars and pubs galore; Guildford even has its own castle! Guildford is only 35 minutes on the train from London Waterloo and only 10 minutes by car from the m25.

Children will find the KidZone by far the best to date with loads of fun, games, theatre and activities, not to mention the face painting!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Full Rihanna tour details

Currently riding high at the top of the charts with the (produced by Ne-Yo) atmospheric hit 'Russian Roulette', Grammy Award winning superstar Rihanna announces what is sure to be a sell-out full UK arena tour for May 2010... Full details as follows...

Having released new album 'Rated R', Rihanna will head to the UK with a full arena tour - in tow will be her current catalogue of hits including the MTV VMA and Grammy Award-winning global #1 hit 'Umbrella', 'Shut Up and Drive,' 'Hate That I Love You', and 'Don't Stop the Music.'

The figures for her previous releases are just as impressive with the album 'Good Girl Gone Bad' going 5x Platinum in the UK alone. Team that with cumulative sales of more than 36-times platinum in at least 20 territories around the world, and spun off the CD+DVD package 'Good Girl Gone Bad: Reloaded (January 2009)' â�� which continued the string of hits #1 'Take A Bow,' and the #1 'Disturbia' and I think you get the picture!?... Wow! You've come a long way baby!!!

Here are all the date details - just follow the link to get em while their hot, hot, hot... But I'd do it soon, or you'll be the one left out in the cold, cold cold!?!

MAY DATES 2010

FRI 07 - BIRMINGHAM LG ARENA
SAT 08 - LIVERPOOL ECHO ARENA
MON 10 - LONDON 02 ARENA
TUE 11 - LONDON 02 ARENA
THUR 13 -SHEFFIELD ARENA
FRI 14 - NOTTINGHAM ARENA
SUN 16 - MANCHESTER ARENA
MON 17 - NEWCASTLE ARENA
WEDS19 - GLASGOW SECC

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Win a vocal performance by Eric Roberson on your track

The ultra prestigious Grammy Awards will be held on January 31 in Los Angeles and to celebrate Eric Roberson getting the nod for 'A Tale Of Two' (in the Urban/Alternative category), Erro has launched a remix competition via his website â�� with the prize being a free vocal performance by Eric himself.

Judges of the remixes will be Grammy Award- winning producers Bryan Michael Cox (Mariah Carey, Mary J Blige, Toni Braxton and Usher) and Rich Harrison, (Beyonce, Alicia Keys, Amerie and Jennifer Lopez) producer Brett Baker (responsible for producing and co-writing much of Eric's current album Music Fan First) and Eric himself (So not much pressure then!?).

ENTRY DETAILS:

To enter, you need to get your skates on and act quickly because the closing date for entries is December 21. The top five mixes chosen by the judges will then be the subject of an online vote by Eric's fans.

Full details of the competition are provided by Eric himself on his website www.blueerrosoul.blogspot.com together with a link to download the acappella version of 'A Tale of Two'. (err 'o great name for a blog, sounds kinda familiar).

Good luck!!!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Southport Weekender 46 almost sold out after one week

We hear the next Southport Weekender scheduled for May 7,8,9 is almost sold out - hot off the press comes news that after one week of sales, they are down to the last 800 tickets. Better get a move on if you want them as xmas prezzies.

The only chalets left are 6 berth and a very small amount of 4 berths... I have been asked to mention that its more likely to be days rather than weeks before they are all gone AND "once they've gone..." I think you know the rest...

To reserve your places, all you need is a deposit of Â�50 per person and you can do it ONLINE (hit the buy now link) or call the office on 0844 879 7210. If you've already booked and intend adding people then ring straight away or friends could miss out - you've been warned party people!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Free devine jazz in the heart of London on Sunday Dec 13th

Who needs for Songs Of Praise on Sunday night, as we bring you news of a Jazz event in the centre of London that we've been praying for... literally! A mixture of jazz + a christian mass = 'Jazz Mass' and it's FREE - should bring them flocking we think...

The place to be on Sunday 13th December is the Church of St Anne (no it's not in a fully blown medieval church - I swear on the Bible!?), the address 55 Dean Street, AND the time to make your presence felt is 7.00pm.

This is the third in a monthly series of events, which brings the sound of music to the jazz faithful by the medium of the multi-talented Cave-King Jazz Mass. This evening will feature acclaimed soloists in the guise of Duncan Eagles, international star Aki PÃ�ivÃ�rinne, and Soho favourite Alison Beck. As this event continues to thrive, there have already been commissions for performances in churches and clubs throughout London and Manhattan.

The service takes place just a stones throw from Ronnie Scotts, and will be led by Fr David Gilmore, Rector of Soho: "The Jazz Mass is the perfect way to get a little Eternity into your Sunday". Fr David also sums up the atmosphere on this evening thus. "Take the timeless dignity of the Christian mass, the immediacy and drive of improvised jazz, combined with the dim glamour of St Anne, and you end up with a powerful, unique experience in the heart of Soho."

I can only echo Fr David's sentiments as this momentum gathering jazz event is not to be missed... I just wonder if they take requests?... 'Faith' maybe, or 'He/She Moves In Mysterious Ways', how about touch of Like A Prayer', or 'Keep The Faith' even? - OK I think you got the point!?... Full details below...

Sunday 13th December @7.00pm

Entry: FREE

Church of St Anne
55 Dean Street
Soho
W1D

For more info www.stannes-soho.org.uk

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Download FREE: Phantom Limb Last Chance Saloon

Nothing in this world is free, or so they say... Well, now folks there is - Here's a free track from Bristolian country soul sextet Phantom Limb (yes I did say country soul). Ahh, now you're curious - you'll have to have a listen now

Christmas has come early as Phantom Limb are giving away their new single for free on Amazon. Previously unavailable, â��Last Chance Saloon' is a gorgeous, laid back track and another example of the band's song writing/musicianship and of Yolanda Quartey's phenomenal voice.

All you have to do is follow the link and download the track from Amazon - easy! The link is:

Click here for 'Last Chance Saloon' FREE Download

They are also on tour throughout this month, so here are those details - I know we are spoiling you;)

DECEMBER:
Tue 8th The Ruby Lounge, Manchester Â�6.50
Wed 9th Nice and Sleazy, Glasgow Â�7 adv.
Thur 10th The Cluny 2, Newcastle Â�6 adv.
Sun 13th The Yardbird, Birmingham Â�6 adv. (seated)
Mon 14th The Latest Music Bar, Brighton Â�7 adv.
Tues 15th Bush Hall, London Â�10
Wed 16th Oakford Social Club, Reading Â�6 adv.
Thur 17th Arlington Arts Centre, Newbury Â�6 adv. (seated)

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

The star studded Cash Money party in London 27/11/09

Listen to this roll call and you know how off the hook this party was... Rihanna, Jay Sean, Birdman, Ice T, JLS, Alexandra Burke, Alesha Dixon, Jamelia, Craig David + other major UK stars (ok, the last few were a bit dodgy, but you get me now?) This was just a few of the guests at Cash Money Record's first ever party outside the US.

The heavyweight US hip hop label, whose premier artist spared no expense for the lavish party at The Royal Exchange in the heart of the City had almost 500 people enjoying free-flowing champagne from 9pm until 3am courtesy of the co-founders of Cash Money Records, Bryan "Birdman" Williams and Ronald "Slim" Williams - at the party, reputed to have cost over a 100 grand! (That's more tidal wave, than free flowing me thinks).

Birdman, Slim and Jay Sean arrived in matching Rolls Royce Phantoms, (don't you hate that when that happens!). Whilst at midnight, Jay Sean and Birdman thanked partygoers for the UK's support of Cash Money Records with a live performance of Jay's Number One single - 'Down'. Soundz alright I suppose, or completely bogus depending on what side of the fence you place your feet on... One thing's for sure though... If you were there, you were glad you were...

Erm, I had a cough didn't I!?... next time though yeah...

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch Timbaland: Morning After Dark

Super producer Timbaland is back with the follow up to his debut album Shock Factor -The new release is called imaginitively, Shock Factor II released on Dec 7 and featuring the likes of Justin Timberlake, Katy Perry, Miley Cyrus (that's not a typo), Keri Hilson, The Fray, Brandy and top new comer Drake... So, While we wait for that here's the 1st single 'Morning After Dark'.

In this viddy we see Timbaland has been re-incarnated as a vampire - While there's no R Patz in sight Timbaland and So Shy do make a menacing pair (of vampires of course!?) as they prey on young party goers in this non descript European city... Is this a Bootsy hook I see before me?

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

The Big Chill: Busking For SolarAid

To celebrate the launch of the Busking for SolarAid album Big Chill venues will be hosting acoustic gigs, opening up a platform for some of their favourite buskers at all of the venues throughout November! And what is Solar Aid I hear you ask?... Well...

SolarAid are an organization who aim to help combat climate change and global poverty by bringing clean, renewable energy to the poorest people in the world. Worthy and worthwhile indeed, so they tick all our boxes and hopefully they can tick yours - so get yourself down to your nearest Big Chill event to help this standout cause and why not enjoy yourself into the bargain... Now here's all the relevant info you chaps/chap-esses need to know:

The Busking for SolarAid album features Fran and Josh, Aleister Kelman, Nimmo & the Gauntletts, Dr Butler's Hatstand Medicine Band, Catrina Davies, James Tarling / Big Toe, Charlie and the Martyrs, Emily White, Archipelago, Marcina Arnold + more. 50% of the profits from the album, which is released on the Big Chill label go directly to SolarAid... By the way, all the entry to all the nights is completely free.

EVENT & VENUE INFO:

12th NOVEMBER
BIG CHILL BAR BRISTOL,
15 Small Street, Bristol, BS1 1DE
7 â�� 10PM
FREE ENTRY
www.bigchill.net/bristol

18TH NOVEMBER
MARKET PLACE, 11 Marketplace,
London, W1 8AH
7 â�� 11PM
FREE ENTRY
www.marketplace-london.com

25TH NOVEMBER
BIG CHILL HOUSE, 257 â�� 259 Pentonville Road,
Kings Cross, London, N1 9NL
7 â�� 12PM
FREE ENTRY
www.bigchill.net/house

28th NOVEMBER
BIG CHILL BAR BRICK LANE, Dray Walk (off brick lane),
London E1 6QL
4 â�� 8PM
FREE ENTRY
www.bigchill.net/bar

ABOUT SOLARAID (Their blurb):

Fighting povertyâ��- Right now, two billion people have no access to electricity. They rely on burning fuels such as kerosene and wood for light and heat, which is highly toxic and expensive. Having solar power improves people's health, income and education. That's because solar power can enable poor people to cook food, pump clean water, run fridges, light homes, schools and hospitals, farm more effectively, and much more.

Fighting climate changeâ��- Climate change is mainly due to the massive and continuing use of burning fossil fuels for energy. This has pumped vast amounts of greenhouse gases, primarily carbon dioxide, into the atmosphere. At the same time, we have destroyed vast tracts of forest, which has released billions of tonnes of carbon. By replacing carbon-emitting products with solar power, and reducing ourâ��dependency on burning wood and fossil fuels we can alleviate global warming.

SolarAid were at the Big Chill festival this year with their Solar Stage and phone charging (yes I remember, Â�5 per charge - last time I checked the Sun's rays were free, tut-tut!) service bringing their generous vibe to revelers. For more info www.solar-aid.org

CHECK OUT THE BUSKER PERFORMERS ON MYSPACE:

http://www.myspace.com/franandjosh

http://www.myspace.com/aleisterkelman

http://www.myspace.com/nimmoandthegauntlettsuk

http://www.myspace.com/drbutlershatstandmedicineband

http://www.myspace.com/catdeejay

http://www.myspace.com/charlieandthemartyrs

http://www.myspace.com/thisisarchipelago

http://www.myspace.com/marcinaarnold

OTHER USEFUL URLS:

Fran & Josh MTV Live Session
www.mtv.co.uk/artists/fran-and-josh/session/fran-and-josh

Seeker on The Big Chill 2009 Solar Aid Stage
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ksY8c20lR9M

The Doppler Shift on The Big Chill 2009 Solar Aid Stage
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7KZnrCyf4cI&feature=related

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch Jason Delulo 'Watcha Say?'

Debut single from Jason DerÃ�lo 'Whatcha Say', and produced by J.R. Rotem. The track samples the Imogen Heap song 'Hide And Seek' and hit number 1 stateside on November 14th, 2009. The digital single has sold 1.7 million copies (so far), according to Nielsen SoundScan. So, a mighty tune indeed...

DerÃ�lo is currently working on his debut album, which is set for release in early 2010. He was announced as an opening act for Lady Gaga for her 2009-2010 tour, The Monster Ball Tour the lucky fella.

Watch out for a Pete Lewis interview with Jason Derulo coming soon to B&S...

Enjoy the video.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch Taio Cruz new video for new tune 'No Other One'

Fresh outta the box we have the new video from Taio Cruz - the tune is called 'No Other One' with Taio hoping to repeat his chart topping last single 'Break Your Heart'. On this form, anything is possible for this Rokstarr.

Not a story-line that is too difficult to follow, we find our hero deliberating on his future with another beauty - yeah Taio, it must be tough mate?!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Motown runs video competition for your chance to win Motown Divas VIP style

Motown is running a competition for keen fans who like to sing the hits of their heroes. The prize is VIP Concert tickets to see the Divas Of Motown show at the HMV Apollo on November 13th.

For your chance to win, simply send in your best video of you singing your favourite Motown Divas song. Simple! Then you and a friend could be heading down to the Hammersmith Apollo for a VIP evening to see the Divas Of Motown show.

FULL SENDING DETAILS:

Email your video to us at motowntamla50@googlemail.com
Please leave your NAME, ADDRESS & DAYTIME TELEPHONE NUMBER.

OTHER INFO:

The best videos will be uploaded on www.youtube.com/UniMusCatUK

The winning video will be voted for by the concert organisers and voting will take place on 11th November. The winner will be notified on the 11th November and must be available to attend the concert on the night of 13th November

In addition Universal will give away 10 copies of the new Diva's Compilation CD as prizes to those entrants who do not win the tickets.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch Jay-z and Alicia Keys 'Empire State Of Mind'

We bring you the video for one of THE tunes of the year from one of the hottest albums this year - Yep, that's right, it has to be Jay-Z. Here's the video for patriotic hand on heart 'Empire State Of Mind' - Don't it make ya feel REAL good?

Here we have Jay teamed up with the distinguishable tones of one Alicia Keys, whose piano lick + heavily melodic chorus sets this tune up just right for one knock out single.

We stand to attention and salute one and all!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch: Defected - The rise and rise of a label

Defected Records has endured a very competitive market over the last 10 years, consistently turning out dance floor gems to earn it's place in amongst the high echelon of house music and definitely continues too be one of the most respected.

As Defected Records celebrates it's 10th Anniversary, we bring you a short film narrated by this mighty label's Guv'nr Simon Dunmore. This film features the artists that helped define the label, the legendary gig's and the rise of Defected's â��In The House' global club nights. If you love your dance, you'll love this short (15 minute) film...

ENJOY!;)

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Friday October 30th************* Hate crime candle-lit vigil in Trafalgar Sq

A Day In Hand calls on all attendees of the silent Candle-lit vigil Against All Hate-Crime - to show the world that this sort of criminal behavior is unacceptable here and to stand shoulder to shoulder to stop this happening again.

This vigil has been organised in response to the death of our good friend Ian Baynham who was attacked and subsequently murdered in an horrific homophobic hate crime in Trafalgar Square recently.

We also remember all those who have suffered and continue to suffer from all forms of hate crime. The Vigil is being organised by the Facebook group 17-24-30 which was set up to mark the 10th Anniversaries of the London Nail Bomb attacks on Brixton, Brick Lane and Soho.

Bars/clubs the immediate area have been asked to hold a 2 minute silence at 9pm, while venues beyond walking distance from Trafalgar are organising shorter vigils outside their premises.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED...

Please come straight to Trafalgar Square for the Vigil between 8pm and 10pm on Friday 30th October. Please do not bring banners and placards - we want to see a sea of candles and faces. Bring non-drip candles. Please NO GLASS.

USEFUL LINKS:

FACEBOOK:
VIGIL

WEBSITE:
www.adayinhand.com
(PLEASE REGISTER AT THE WEBSITE)

FACEBOOK:
A Day In Hand

TWITTER:
A Day in Hand

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Soul Train Award nominations announced

After being absent last year the Soul Train awards return to their former glory on November 29, with a special evening marked to celebrate Motown's 50th birthday. Hosted by Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson, it promises to be a star-studded niight.

Beyonce, Maxwell and Keri Hilson lead the pack as far as nominations go with four potential Soul Train trophies each. All three compete for 'Song of the Year' and 'Record of the Year'. Whilst, both Beyonce and Maxwell are also up for Album of the Year with "I am..." and "BLACKsummer'snight". Again Beyonce and Maxwell extend further expectations in Best Female and Male R&B/Soul Artist awards. Keri, receives two other nominations in Best New Artist and Best Collaboration categories.

Other nominated artists include Whitney Houston, Jamie Foxx, Kanye West and Robin Thicke. A special honoree award for 'Entertainer of the Year' will be given to the late, Michael Jackson. Performing on this evening are the like of Ledisi, Chrisette Michele, Toni Braxton, Melanie Fiona and Trey Songz.

Nominations list of 2009 Soul Train Music Awards:

Best New Artist:

* Drake
* Jazmine Sullivan
* Keri Hilson
* Ryan Leslie
* Solange Knowles

Best Female R&B/Soul Artist:

* Beyonce Knowles
* Chrisette Michele
* Jennifer Hudson
* Ledisi
* Whitney Houston

Best Male R&B/Soul Artist:

* Charlie Wilson
* Maxwell
* Musiq Soulchild
* Raphael Saadiq
* Robin Thicke

Song of the Year:

* "God in Me" - Mary Mary
* "Pretty Wings" - Maxwell
* "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" - Beyonce Knowles
* "Spotlight" - Jennifer Hudson
* "Turnin Me On" - Keri Hilson feat. Lil Wayne

Album of the Year:

* Beyonce Knowles - "I Am...Sasha Fierce" (Sony Music)
* Jamie Foxx - "Intuition" (J Records)
* Kanye West - "808's & Heartbreak" (Roc-A-Fella/Def Jam)
* Maxwell - "BLACKsummers'night" (Sony Music)
* Ne-Yo - "Year of the Gentleman" (Def Jam)

Record of the Year (Songwriter Award):

* Beyonce Knowles - "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)"
* Drake - "Best I Ever Had"
* Jamie Foxx feat. T-Pain - "Blame it"
* Keri Hilson - "Knock You Down"
* Maxwell - "Pretty Wings"

Best Reggae Artist:

* Movado
* Sean Paul
* Serani
* Taurus Riley
* Ziggy Marley

CENTRIC Award - Soul Approved/Underground:

* Corneille
* Eric Roberson
* Laura Izibor
* Maysa
* The Knux

Best Gospel Performance/Male, Female Or Group:

* Bebe Winans and Cece Winans - "Close to You"
* Fred Hammond fat. John P Kee - "They That Wait"
* Marvin Sapp - "Praise Him in Advance"
* Mary Mary - "God in Me"
* Smokie Norful - "Justified"

Best Collaboration:

* Keri Hilson feat. Kanye West and Ne-Yo - "Knock You Down"
* Keyshia Cole feat. Monica - "Trust"
* Mario feat. Gucci Mane and Sean Garrett - "Break Up"
* Mary Mary feat. Kiki Sheard - "God in Me"
* Trey Songz feat. Drake - "Successful"

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Beyonce Cancels Malaysian date due to immoral complaint

Beyonce has postponed a planned concert in Malaysia following accusations by Islamic conservatives that the show crosses the line to the point of being immoral.

The 'I am...' tour had been scheduled to touch down at a Kuala Lumpur stadium on October 25, but the show has had to be postponed and possibly moved to a different date!? Malaysian entertainment company Marctensia said in a statement It has been postponed to a future date to be announced shortly

Maybe if they postpone it long enough, it will run out of immoral gas by the time it reaches Malaysia!? Hmmmm.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Big Chill Bristol announces line up for opening weekend + exclusive art trail

Bristol can boast a brand new bar this month, but not just any bar - Ohh no... The all-new 'Big Chill Bar Bristol' - brought to you from the dream team behind the superb and highly acclaimed Big Chill festival. To signal the arrival of this monument of merriment, those red hot chillies have a truly scrumptious line-up...

Featuring a mix of local and international talent plus the launch of an art trail (don't look at me - I don't know what that is either), this is set to be a very special weekend indeed. First up to test drive the sound-system will be electronica legend, Daddy G; one half of the tour-de-force that is Massive Attack and main headline for the Saturday night session - he will be joined by Queen Bee, whilst together uniting themselves as Bristol Hi-Fi.

They will be accompanied by a series of soon to be regulars, including Western Soul - who will be bringing their huge brand of funk and reggae vibes to Bristol's Small Street. Other treats include the red-hot sounds of Future-boogie - who promise a funk filled, soul loving, beat rocking collective of DJ's. This bunch of gifted individuals can regularly be caught setting London bars alight with their xtra special brand of top funked up tunes and mixed vibes. These boys can't wait to feather their Bristol nest to play regular future homecoming gigs.
www.futureboogie.com

If that wasn't enough, joining this finest of line-ups we have the talents of Bedmo Disco; who's acclaimed sound-system comprises of the talents of Sell By Dave and Five-Stylez. This pair of Bristol based producers will be busting disco-centric party-starting beats at close range, so beware!
http://www.myspace.com/thumbsaloft
.

AND SO, TO INTRODUCE THE ARTS TRAIL>>>

The sterling Big Chill Arts trail has inspired a mini version for the Big Chill Bristol in association with Friend & Co. Gallery http://www.friend-and-co.com is a new arts space co-owned by Geoff Barrow from the band Portishead. With more info coming soon, they will be showcasing some of the best local talent around.

Dave Smeaton - Big Chill Bristol's partner said The Big Chill's mix of music, art and great food will be welcomed in a city which has always embraced all of these things in a big way". He added Now all the many Bristol Big Chillers can get a small piece of the festival every day for free!" (so long as it's not the loo's it sounds good).
.

WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO KNOW>>>

The Big Chill Bristol will be open day and night offering tapas-style easy to share dishes and guest menus from the festivals famous food stalls. Drinks will be well-made classic cocktails alongside more traditional pub offerings of beers and local cider plus a good value and keenly researched wine list.

The Big Chill Bristol will be free entry every day â�� including New Year and have highly acclaimed DJs from the Bristol scene and the festival spinning sets in the bar every day.
.

OPENING LINE-UP WEEKEND + ADDRESS DETAILS>>>

FRIDAY OCT 9th:
OPENING PARTY in conjunction with Friend & Co. Gallery featuring western soul / futureboogie / bedmo disco plus many moreâ��

SATURDAY OCT 10th:
BRISTOL HI FI feat. DADDY G (massive attack) & QUEEN BEE
,
The Big Chill Bristol
15 Small Street, Bristol,
BS1 1DE
Tel: 0117 9304217

http://www.bigchill.net/bristol

http://www.myspace.com/bristolhifi

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch the video for Jay-Z's new tune on B&S

Ladies and gentlemen, please be upstanding for one of rap's aristocracy - the inimitable Jay-Z! B&S brings you the new video from the man himself right here, as the Blueprints have been laid for one of THE albums of the year.

The tune is called 'Run This Town' featuring Rihanna & Kanye West and looks like it will blow-up in pure 'Z' style. New album 'Blueprint 3' looks set to follow in the single's footsteps heading straight to the top of the charts with other standout contributions from the likes of Alicia Keys, Kid Cudi, Pharrell, Mr Hudson, Young Jeezy, Swizz Beats, Drake and J Cole - how can this fail to impress.

Enjoy the vid and look out for the full review of Jay-Z 'Blueprint 3' coming soon... Man I love this job!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Anyone for Sylvia Powell?

Now here's a story that strikes us as a little different/interesting and we think highly news-worthy. The London based singer/songwriter Sylvia Powell has organised a UK tour of independent Coffee Houses - Biscotti anyone?

Playing Coffee Houses is not a totally new concept on the opposite side of the Atlantic having launched many household names including; Bob Dylan, Paul Simon, and Joni Mitchell - and who can forget for instance Central Perk's out of tune air head Phoebe in TV's Friends (Smelly Cat!?). OK- not a great example, but you know what I mean. This phenomenon doesn't seem to have caught on here yet, BUT is it just about to?

We have seen the odd event crop up here and there at different hot beverage houses - I can think of Cafe Nero off the top of my head as one that has tried this tact of late. But Powell, a former label mate of our Kylie has taken it upon herself to plan to tour the length and breadth of the UK (you'll need a lot of coffee for that!) and play a veritable selection coffee establishments. We at B&S feel this will now open the floodgates for more artists as far as this type of event is concerned - and indeed why the heck not?! She says Many coffee houses I approached had never hosted live music and were surprised by my request, however when I played them my music and explained the concept â�� the rich history of the coffee shop in the USA and the fact that Simon & Garfunkel, Suzanne Vega and Tracy Chapman all started in coffee houses â�� there was a lot of enthusiasm for the idea.

With the band-wagon set firmly in place by a premier acoustic amp provider, you can't see how the wheels could possibly fall off of this venture into the relevant unknown. She adds I started playing in coffee and tea houses in and around London at the beginning of the year and the response was amazing, so I decided to extend this to the rest of the country. I feel I've tapped into a culture that's been lost in the UK. I don't think so much lost as such, maybe they just need to wake-up and smell the coffee as it were.

So what about the music itself - well, it won't turn your milk sour if that's what you're worried about. Sylvia's blend of folk, soul and jazz suits the intimacy and listening room atmosphere of a coffee house. Her rich, dulcet tones and the â��confessional' element to her writing will ensure you'll enjoy your relaxation time on one hand and send you off with a caffeine style spring in your step in the other.

COFFEE HOUSE TOUR DATES:

SEPTEMBER
15th The Coffee House, Kings Lynn Corn Exchange, 12noon, FREE

20th Boston Tea Party, Barnstaple, Devon, 1830 - FREE

OCTOBER
4th Moksha Caf� , Brighton, 1300 - FREE

10th Kemptown Bookstore, Brighton, 1500, FREE

11th McKechnie's, Stratford Upon Avon,1400 -FREE

21st The Wardrobe, Leeds, 2100 - Â�10

31st Ripple Caf� Bar, Nottingham, 2000 - FREE

NOVEMBER
6th Habit, York, 2000 - FREE

DECEMBER
4th Coastal Coffee House, Rusington, West Sussex, 1930 - Â�5

More dates are brewing!

For more Sylvia Powell info http://www.sylviapowellmusic.com

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch Tinchy Stryder's 'I Will Never Leave You' video

Here's the new tune from the pocket rocket Tinchy 40,000 Tweet's on Twitter Stryder, now that's popular - well done geez. Here's to the next 40,000... Tunes called I Will Never Leave You... Just Tweet me if you do Bruv.

Tinchy is in on top form with this tune and in typical Stryder style as we've now come to expect from the Star in the Hood.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch Keri Hilson's new video Energy on B&S

Catch Keri Hilson's killer new video for the single Energy right here on B&S online... I must say Ms Hilson - you are looking H-O-TT!

The action takes place in a boxing gym of all places- course it does... Ok I'm gonna say it - It's knockout! Happy!? I'm sure you can do better with the puns - have a think while you watch the vid and send em our way if you think your a joker.

Great tune - top video.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch Eminem's Beautiful video here on B&S

Here's a chance to watch Eminem's Beautiful single - Ok Em we'll be the judge of that!?;)

All good...

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch Black Eyed Peas new video: I Gotta Feelin

Check out the new viddy from the Black Eyed Peas called 'I've Gotta Feelin'... Yep me to - Feelin this is gonna be HUGE!

Enjoy...

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Grammy winning group All-4-One set to release new material

These four harmonious Grammy award winning artists, Jamie Jones, Delious Kennedy, Alfred Nevarez and Tony Borowiak, known collectively as ALL-4-ONE became a throwback to classic Motown era groups.

It's been seven years since their last album but their new cd NO REGRETS will be released on 15 September through Peak Records, via the Concord Music Group.

From the moment the US chart-topping acappella song 'So Much In Love' hit the radio airwaves, the group etched their place in musical history. In 1994, their follow up smash song 'I Swear' instantly climbed the charts and held the longest running number one single position in Billboard's history. Their success continued with the release of a string of hits including 'I Can Love You Like That', 'She's Got Skillz' and 'Beautiful As You.'

Their new single 'My Child' is already on release.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Jazz Cafe Michael Jackson Tribute

At B&S we pride ourselves on giving you the heads-up on truly special occasions - this time is no different. Camden's Jazz Cafe is playing host to a plethora of talent to celebrate the life of Motown icon Michael Jackson.

Hosted by soulful tones of Eric Roberson (which in my view is more than enough). Erro is joined by the distinctive talents of house diva Kym Mazelle, Chris Ballen, Donna Gardier and Lennox Cameron + + you have to check out the inimitable Phonte Coleman (Little Brother/ Foreign Exchange).

Expect a few surprises on the night, along with all to familiar Jackson tunes, tunes that made up the soundtrack to all our lives. A bank-holiday must as wave bye, bye to the summer and wipe a tear away for MJ.

TICKETS:

Tickets: Â�20 Standing
Restaurant Seat: Â�36.50/Â�38.50 (16.50 goes towards food bill)

Nearest tube: Camden

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Mariah Carey 'Memoirs Of An Imperfect Angel' album playback news

Mariah invites â��B&S' to an exclusive media playback of six tracks from her eagerly-anticipated, soon-come twelfth album â��Memoirs Of An Imperfect Angel' Perfect album? Pete Lewis gives you his esteemed opinion...

GUESTS NOTE:
All phones, cameras and blackberrys MUST be checked in at the doorâ�� Yep, security was decidedly tight at Central London's super-posh Langham Hotel. As, within the opulent surroundings of its plush Artesian Bar, â��Blues & Souls' Pete Lewis mingled with prominent urban-media bods like MOBO founder Kanya King MBE, MTV Base senior producer Jasmine Dotiwala, and KISS FM's DJ Swerve for an exclusive listen to new music from the world's top-selling female artist in history, Ms Mariah Carey.

With Matt Ross of Def Jam US in attendance (but sadly not Mariah herself!), tracks played - in addition to the current Eminen-taunting, bass-booming single Obsessed' - included the dreamily intimate â��H.A.T.E. U'; the loved-up, sensual â��Impossible'; and edgily-pushing R&B groover â��Standing O'.

Nevertheless, it was the wistful, summery drifter â��Candy Bling' that unquestionably proved the favourite with the afternoon's carefully-selected media guests; while the most eyebrow-raising moment arrived with Mariah's bluesily-soulful new take on Foreigner's Eighties rock/gospel anthem â��I Want To Know What Love Is'.

Indeed - with Mariah herself, alongside currently-hot Atlanta pop/R&B writer/producers The-Dream & â��Tricky' Stewart, responsible for most of the songs on display - the event itself (which also visited Tokyo, Hong Kong and Berlin the same week) all-in-all undoubtedly provided an interesting, if somewhat musically-downtempo, appetiser for the (hopeful) September 14 release of the highly-touted â��Memoirs Of An Imperfect Angel' in its entirety.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Preview: The Stuttgart jazzopen festival

The Stuttgart jazzopen Jazz Festival kicks off on the 16th of July and runs through to the 26th. This year it incorporates a new venue the Trade Fair Centre as well as old favourates the BIX Jazzclub and the open air Mercedes-Benz Museum.

Venue highlights include bill topping saxophone legend Sonny Rollins at the Messe Stuttgart. Also at the Messe; The McCoy Tyner Trio with special guest Bill Frisell. On the open-air stage guitar greats John Scofield and the best of smooth jazz- Lee Ritenour. While a couple of BIX Jazz Club highlights must be the Joshua Redman Trio and Soil & Cuban salsa big band Cubanismo!

If you thought that little lot was impressive, the star studied line-up doesn't stop there. You can also add the names of Grace Jones, Lenny Kravitz, James Morrison, Kate Melua, Joss Stone, Solomon Burke, China Moses, Manhattan Transfer and Florence Rawlings to that tantalizing list. Ok, not exactly keeping within the jazz genre, but I think you'll agree they are just as coooool making the Stuttgart jazzopen the place to be!... There's even some free events worth checking out below.

Don't forget to watch out for full B&S reviews from shows at the jazzopen festival...

FULL LINE-UP DETAILS***

16th JULY...
Joe Jackson - AaRON: Open-Air-Mercedes-Benz Museum â�� 19:30

Grace Jones - Trybez: Messe Stuttgart (Flughafen) - 19:30

Joshua Redman Trio - Joerg Reiter & Frank Kuruc Experience:
BIX Jazzclub â�� 20:30

jazzopen playground BW: My Lovely Threesome: Messe Stuttgart (Flughafen) - Atrium â�� 18:00 Uhr

jazzopen playground BW: RockRainer: Messe Stuttgart (Flughafen) - Atrium â�� 23:00 FREE!

17th JULY...
Lee Ritenour & Friends - John Scofield Piety Street: Open-Air- Mercedes-Benz Museum â�� 20:30

China Moses - Tobias Becker Band: BIX Jazzclub â�� 20:30

*
18th JULY...
The Manhattan Transfer: Open-Air-BÃ�hne am Mercedes-Benz Museum â�� 20:30
die kubanische Nacht: Â�Cubanismo! - Hugo Mendez (DJ-Set â�� Sofrito/UK): BIX Jazz club â�� 21:00

19th JULY...

Pasadena Roof Orchestra - Louisiana Funky Butts: Open-Air- Mercedes-Benz Museum â�� 10:30

Lenny Kravitz - Anna F: Messe Stuttgart (Flughafen) - 19:00

Jazz FÃ�r Kinder: Open-Air- Mercedes-Benz Museum â�� 16:00 free!

jazzopen playground BW; Frieder: Messe Stuttgart (Flughafen) - Atrium â�� 17:30 FREE!

jazzopen playground BW: Louisiana Funky Butts: Open - Mercedes-Benz Museum â�� 10:30

20th JULY...
James Morrison - Martin Harley: Messe Stuttgart (Flughafen) â�� 19:30

Olivia Trummer Quartet feat. Bodek Janke & Matthias Schriefl - horo: BIX Jazzclub â�� 20:30

jazzopen playground BW: Sarah Kaiser Band: Messe Stuttgart (Flughafen) - Atrium â�� 18:00 FREE!

21st JULY...
Sonny Rollins: Messe Stuttgart (Flughafen) â�� 19:30

die japanische Nacht: Soil & "Pimp" Sessions - [re:jazz]: BIX Jazzclub â�� 20:30

jazzopen playground BW; Fabiano Pereira feat. mit4spiel5: Messe Stuttgart (Flughafen) - Atrium â�� 18:00 FREE!

jazzopen playground BW; Michael Dikizeyeko: Messe Stuttgart (Flughafen) - Atrium â�� 22:00 FREE!

22nd JULY...
Marianne Faithfull - Brian Auger's Oblivion Express: Messe Stuttgart (Flughafen) - Halle H1 â�� 19:30

Jazz-PreistrÃ�ger Axel KÃ�hn und sein KÃ�hntett - FFT (by Zbikbeat): BIX Jazzclub â�� 20:30

jazzopen playground BW: Acoustic Avenue: Messe Stuttgart (Flughafen) - Atrium â�� 18:00 FREE!

23rd JULY...
Soul Night; Joss Stone - Solomon Burke: Messe Stuttgart (Flughafen) - Halle H1 â�� 19:30

Studnitzky Trio + Special-Guest - Alvin Mills Project: BIX Jazzclub â�� 20:30

jazzopen playground BW; Sprachlabor: Messe Stuttgart - Atrium â�� 18:00 FREE!

jazzopen playground BW; Soulyla on the rocks: Messe Stuttgart (Flughafen) - Atrium â�� 23:00 FREE!

24th JULY...
die lange jazz night: SWR Big Band, Helen Schneider, Wolfgang Dauner - McCoy Tyner - Chris Potter: Messe Stuttgart (Flughafen) - Halle H1 â�� 19:30

Florence Rawlings - Kitty Hoff & ForÃ�t-Noire: BIX Jazzclub â�� 20:30

jazzopen playground BW; A Chick from Corea: Messe Stuttgart (Flughafen) - Atrium â�� 18:00 FREE!

25th JULY...
Caracol - Jordans Drive: BIX Jazzclub â�� 21:00

26th JULY...
Katie Melua and the Stuttgart Philamonic with Mike Batt conducting: Messe Stuttgart (Flughafen) - Halle H1 (L-Bank F â�� 20:00

Jazz FÃ�r Kinder: Messe Stuttgart (Flughafen) - Atrium â�� 16:00 FREE!

jazzopen playground BW; AnnA: Messe Stuttgart (Flughafen) - Atrium â�� 18:30 FREE!

jazzopen playground BW; New York Sunday Brunch: Messe Stuttgart (Flughafen) - Atrium â�� 22:00 FREE!

MORE jazzopen INFO:
www.jazzopen.com

TICKETS:
www.seatwave.co.uk

FLYING (B&S Recomends):
www.germanwings.com

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Michael Jackson 1958-2009 - Statement from Berry Gordy

Motown founder Berry Gordy, the man who first brought us Michael Jackson and The Jackson 5 gives his heartfelt tribute to 'King Of Pop' - the iconic Michael Jackson.

I am shocked beyond words. It's like a dream - a bad dream. This cannot be! How can Michael Jackson not be here?

As a kid, Michael was always beyond his years. He had a knowingness about him that was incredible.

When I first heard him sing Smokey's song, "Who's Lovin' You" at 10 years' old, it felt like he had lived the song for 50 years. Somehow, even at that first meeting with him, he had a hunger to learn, a hunger to be the best and was willing to work as hard and as long as it took.

I had no concern about his ability to go to the top. He was like my son. He had warmth, sensitivity and two personalities. When he was not on stage, he was loving, respectful and shy. When he WAS on stage, he was so in charge you would not believe he was the same person.

Michael was and will remain one of the greatest entertainers that ever lived. He was exceptional, artistic and original. He gave the world his heart and soul through his music.

I extend my sympathies to Joe, Katherine and the entire Jackson family. My prayers are with them.

Berry Gordy
Founder, Motown
June 25, 2009

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch the video for new track 'Weedhead'

Ok, you know we pride ourselves on bringing you the tunes of tomorrow today. Plus you know we separate the good from the bad. And the bad, from the down-right ugly.

Well you're in for a treat this time round as brand new track 'Weedhead' by MerCee Low is set to go higher than high. The track comes from the soon to be released album 'De Relapse' and is produced by Boss-Smit - featuring samples from of all things, the movie 'Friday' with Ice Cube and Chris Tucker. We have included the video for your pleasure and you can thank us later for the heads-up.

Be warned, this video contains strong language. If you're easily offended or are not at ease with drug connertations (that's talk about drugs dawg) then don't hit that play button... But I feel you just might;)

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Full refund details for Michael Jackson 'This Is It' Concerts

AEG Live (UK) Ltd, concert promoters, announced full refunds will be available to fans who purchased tickets through authorised agents for the 50 Michael Jackson 'This Is It' concerts which were to take place at The O2 Arena in London. These refunds will include ALL ticket service charges.

In a press statement an AEG spokesperson said "At this time of mourning for Michael Jackson, we are together in our sadness at the loss of one of the greatest entertainers ever." Just and abrimal I think you'll agree.

"The world lost a kind soul who just happened to be the greatest entertainer the world has ever known," added Randy Phillips, President & CEO, AEG Live. "Since he loved his fans in life, it is incumbent upon us to treat them with the same reverence and respect after his death."

Ticket holders requiring information about receiving a full refund should go to www.michaeljacksonlive.com from Wednesday, July 1, 2009. The refunds will be processed by each of the authorised ticket agencies (e.g. Ticketmaster, Viagogo, See or Ticketline).

It was also announced that fans will have the option to be sent the actual tickets they would have received to attend the shows in lieu of the full refunds which are being offered

The tickets printed with the special lenticular process, were inspired and designed by Michael Jackson for the fans attending his shows. Images of the specially created tickets may be seen on www.michaeljacksonlive.com beginning 1st July 2009. The special offer to receive the actual tickets that the purchaser would have received to attend 'This is It' will remain valid thru 23:59 GMT, August 14, 2009

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

B&S opens a book of condolence

We are busy constructing a book of condolence where you can share your best Michael memories and photos. Which we shall be sending to the jackson family... watch this space...

In the meantime feel free to send anything Michael Jackson to info@bluesandsoul.com

Thank you x

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Michael Jackson the King of Pop is Dead

Michael Jackson passed away at 2.28pm on June the 25th- he was 50. Michael suffered a cardiac arrest at his Holmby Hills home. There were three separate attempts to resuscitate the idol by his private physician, paramedics and hospital staff but all failed. He was pronounced dead at 2.26pm LA time.

It was one of the staff members at Jackson's home who called 911. When paramedics arrived Jackson had no pulse. A source told tmz.com "Jackson was dead when paramedics arrived." A cardiologist at UCLA said "Jackson died of cardiac arrest." Once at the hospital, the staff tried to resuscitate him but he was completely unresponsive. A source inside the hospital also told tmz "There was absolute chaos after Jackson arrived. People who were with the singer were screaming, "You've got to save him! You've got to save him!"

The city's coroner subsequently conformed the reports, and a few hours later Michael's brother Jermaine Jackson delivered a short statement to the world's press. Jermaine told journalists: "My brother, the legendary king of pop, Michael Jackson passed away on Thursday June 25th 2009 at 2.26pm. It is believed he suffered cardiac arrest in his home. Our family requests that the media please requests our privacy at this tough time. And may Allah be with you Michael, always. Love you".

La Toya Jackson was one of the first to reach the hospital was seen sobbing after Jackson was pronounced dead. Followed by Elizabeth Taylor, who we hear, arrived too late to pay her last respects. Crowds gathered outside the hospital where Jackson died, his home nearby in LA, and in New York's Time Square - coverage of his death was beamed on the famous news screens.

There had been rumors about Jackson's ill health for years fueled by of his frail appearance. Rumors of serious health scares became more common recently, though almost all were were denied or played down by Jackson and his aids. The signing up to do a fifty night residency at The O2 in London seemed a bridge to far, but promoters AEG Live assured that their insurers had done a rigorous heath assessment which the singer apparently passed with flying colours. There followed a lot of reporting on AEG Live's insurance position, with reports that while the company had secured insurance for some of the shows, or certain aspects of the production, not all the project had been properly insured, insurers concerned about both Jackson's health and his tendency in recent years to pull out of projects last minute. But AEG boss Randy Phillips was reported to have said Jackson was in good health, that his talks with insurers were going fine, and that the company would insure it all itself if they had to. Billboard say that over Â�50 million had been taken in ticket sales to date for the O2 shows. They also add, The promoter had paid Jackson a $10 million advance, and already coughed up $30 million into the production. The foot-note here is, if he died of an existing condition or overdose the insurers may not pay. Things could possibly go from bad to a lot worse for AEG live.

Plans to release a new album at the same time as the tour, may have restored Michael's standing as a serious recording artist once more. His well documented money troubles were always averted at the last minute as Jackson staved off financial vultures time after time again. There must now be a real worry that financiers who have advanced money on the back of the tour, will want their money sooner rather than later. This may cause the sale of many of Michael Jackson's prized assets including his 50% stake in music publishing major Sony/ATV.

These shows, plus many more that were planned along with newly released original material would have provided security for Michael and his children in the future. But alas sadly this was not to be.

Michael is survived by three children: Michael Joseph Jackson, Jr., Paris Michael Katherine Jackson and Prince 'Blanket' Michael Jackson II.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Eric Roberson New Album & Tour news

Some exciting hot off the press Eric Roberson news, as August (24th) will see the release of Erro's first album in over two years. The album called 'Music Fan First' includes duets with Lalah Hathaway and Wayna.

If that wasn't enough, we have freshly released tour info as Roberson will play dates in October including: London's Jazz Cafe 8th/9th, The Drum (Birmingham) 10th and Band On The Wall (Manchester) on the 11th.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Snowboy Book News: From Jazz Funk and Fusion to Acid Jazz

If you read 'The Snowboy Column' on B&S you will be aware that one of our favourite sons has written a book - Longtime in the making and a true perfectionist as he is...

Jazz guv'nor Snowboy has toiled long and hard to record a major concise part of music/dance history. 'From Jazz Funk and Fusion to Acid Jazz' does exactly what it says on the label, with interviews from the people that made it happen.

As part of Snowboy's book launch tour we bring you what transpired as remarkable event at Tower Records in down-town Japan. The dance outfit 'Stax Groove' laid on a special show to highlight this extra special genre. Also catch Snowboy's intro...

To order a copy of From Jazz Funk and Fusion to Acid Jazz CLICK HERE

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Beverley Knight album and full tour details

Beverley Knight has anounced the title of impending album, her 6th release called '100%' (September 14th). To accompany the album Knight will be undertaking her first UK tour in two years starting in November.

As part of this tour Knight announced a not to be missed headline show in 2010 at the prestigious surroundings of London's Royal Albert Hall. Tickets for the ICA gig on Thursday September 3rd have sold out already, so the rest of the tour should sell like hot cakes.

'100%' sees multi-award winning Knight working with a host of star studdied writing partners including Guy Chambers and multi Grammy Award winning legends Jam and Lewis.

FULL TOUR DETAILS BELOW:

03rd September â�� ICA, London SOLD OUT

03rd November - Ipswich Regent

04th November - Cardiff St David's Hall

05th November - Bristol Colston Hall

06th November - Wolverhampton Civic Hall

08th November - Glasgow ABC

09th November - Preston Guild Hall

10th November - Liverpool Philharmonic

12th November - Brighton Dome

13th November - Southampton Guild Hall

15th November - Folkestone Leas Cliff

16th November - Norwich UEA

17th Manchester - Bridgewater Hall

19th November - Southend Cliff Pavillion

22nd November - Sheffield City Hall

23rd November - Birmingham Symphony Hall

24th November - Gateshead Sage

07th April 2010â��London Royal Albert Hall

0871 2200 260
www.gigsandtours.com

Tickets for all tour dates go on general sale this Friday 19th July at 10am.

'100%' is released on Hurricane Records September 14th 2009.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Beverley Knight launches cosmetics range

September sees the launch of Beverley Knight's cosmetics range for dark skin: K by Beverley Knight, to be launched exclusively in Selfridges stores and rolled out to John Lewis and other stores afterwards.

With new album ('100%'), a cosmetics range and a UK tour from November 2009 - could this be Bev Knight's year - I'm '100%' sure.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Alesha Dixon to release next single via Toblerone

From next month tasty Alesha Dixon's next single 'Before The Sun Goes Down' will be available if you download a special code from Toblerone rappers. Yum Yum!... I meant the chocolate of course!?

Toblerone, owned by Kraft Foods is showing how music is being cross-pollinated with other brands in many different diverse ways, clever indeed. What next I wonder - Eminen with M&M's perhaps!? Hey, who's a SMARTIE now?;)

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Eminem hints at D12 reunion

As the subject of D12's passed away member Proof came up, Eminem told Rap City "Me and the guys, we got a bond, it's special. As far as the future of D12, we're gonna be back in the studio soon"

On the same subject of the much missed Proof (2006), Em also added. "Right now, my music would probably be the same if Proof was still alive. I think this is what Proof always wanted, was for me to go crazy again. My life would be different because I would still have him".

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Lucky 13th waxwork for Michael Jackson

It's 13th time lucky for Michael Jackson as Madam Tussaurd has cast the singer for an incredible 13th time. Hey, who believes in bad luck anyway - it's Michael Jackson right!? New sculptor was created by Stephen Mansfield.

The king of pop is about to embark on his 50 date residentcy at London's 02, so it's fitting the Queen is the only one to be cast more times (22). I wonder how many times they've cast Prince - Charles that is!?;)

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Youssou N'Dour to play Indig02

You may remember Youssou N'Dour from the track 'Seven Seconds' in which he dueted with Nena Cherry. A huge international hit in 1994 which remained on the charts, would you believe, for nearly half a year reaching the top three in many countries including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia, Russia and Poland.

This renowned singer, songwriter and composer and one of the most celebrated African musicians in histor- mixing traditional Senegalese music, with eclectic influences ranging from Cuban samba to hip-hop, jazz and soul, which has won him an international fan base of millions.

In the early 1970s N'Dour was performing regularly with the Star Band, Dakar's most popular group. He then went on to conquer the rest of the world, collaborating with the likes of Wyclef Jean, Paul Simon, Bruce Springsteen, Peter Gabriel and Tracy Chapman. You may also remember he recently performed at two of the largest live events in history - the 2005 Live8 concerts in the UK and France. We say "Miss at your Peril!"

Full Details below:

Saturday 25th July, indigO2, London

Tickets are priced between Â�25 - Â�40 and are available from Ticketmaster on 08444 775775)

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

New gospel label 'Highly Favored Music'

Jimmy Levine, president of the MoPhilly Music Group, has gone into partnership with Leon Haywood, noted US funk/soul singer since 1965. They have opened the new gospel label Highly Favored Music, and have secured a manufacturing and distribution deal with the Universal Music Group in the States. Visit the website www.highlyfavoredmusic.com

Gifted musician and composer, Jimmy Levine, also a one time Motown employee, is a recording artist in his own right. He re-introduced the traditional sounds of Nu-Soul and R&B to the world with his 'Share My Love' album in 2006. And via MoPhilly worked on the outstanding Shantel album 'Arize It's Time To Shine'. He continues to work on his own projects and with others.

Leon Haywood first hit the US charts on the Imperial label with 'She's With Her Other Love' in 1965 before signing with Decca and later 20th Century Fox, where he enjoyed his biggest crossover hit with 'I Want'a Do Something Freaky To You' in 1975. In 1980, Haywood revived the shuffle beat of 1950s rock â��n' roll with the US top forty hit 'Don't Push It Don't Force It', and his last R&B charting single was 'Tenderoni' on the Modern label in 1984.

Elaine Norwood is Highly Favoured Music's first signed artist. Hailing from Prentis, Mississippi, Elaine has recorded and performed with some of the most respected secular and gospel acts including Nancy Wilson and Edwin Hawkins. She switched to television where she became an in-demand background vocalist on shows like The American Music Awards. She currently serves as a Minister of Worship at the Home Assembly Church in Los Angeles. To date she's got four albums to her credit, namely, 'Released', 'Double Blessing', 'God Has A Way' and 'Good News'. Check out her website www.elainenorwood.com for more information.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Well Rock-A-Doodle-Doo!..... Linda Lewis tour dates

Always a pleasure to announce Linda Lewis tour dates on B&S and here they are - spanning from Ronnie Scotts 50th to Guilfest, from Portsmouth to Wavendon. I urge you to make a beeline for this honey (opps sorry!) These UK dates follow a prestigious residency at Monte Carlo's Hotel De Paris.

Lewis hit the charts in the summer of 1973, with the single 'Rock-A-Doodle-Doo' whilst utilising her five-octave vocal range. In 1975 her debut album, 'Not A Little Girl Anymore,' yielded a massive international hit in the form of a disco-fied version of 'The Shoop Shoop Song (no it wasn't Cher!?;)) Then came another disco-oriented album, 'Woman Overboard,' in 1977. Maintaining pace with 'Hacienda View' in 1980, followed by "A Tear And A Smile," in 1983.

The Nineties saw a string of successes in Japan, with the hit album 'Second Nature' in 1995, then 'Whatever' in 1997 and 'Kiss Of Life' in 1999. Fusing folk, soul, pop, rock and reggae - into a totally unique signature sound. With the recent emergence of female artists in a similar mould to Linda Lewis, it's refreshing to re-visit Lewis work and to see how ahead of her time she was.

Linda Lewis Tour Dates are as follows...

JUNE

23 June The Stables, Wavendon

24 June The Cellars, Eastney, Portsmouth

26 and 27 June Ronnie Scotts, London

JULY

11 July Guilfest, Stoke Park, Guildford

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Amy Winehouse cancels Island date

After Jacko, we have our second cancelation of the week as Amy Winehouse's management has regretfully announced that Amy and her band will no longer be performing at the Shepherd's Bush Empire on May 31st. Refunds for tickets will be issued at point of purchase.

This news wasn't a total surprise as it was reported that Winehouse was in fact ill. Other reports suggest Winehouse wasn't ready for a live date as the recent near wash-out at the St Lucia Jazz Festival, where her performance was cut short, was said to be just as well as sources say she was far below par.

The show which was also to feature Toots & The Maytals and I Blame Coco has therefore been cancelled. You can now catch Toots & The Maytals at Islington Academy on the 1st night of the celebrations on Tuesday 26th May.

As Winehouse was due to perform just a selection of songs at the bush, we'll give her the benefit of the doubt this time round but we still want a note from your mother... B&S report card says, must try harder Miss Winehouse!

Get well soon Amy.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

VIOLA WILLS: 1939-2009

We first met at an exclusive champagne reception in one of London's finest nightclubs during the time when she was enjoying the aftermath of her first major British hit 'Gonna Get Along Without You Now' in 1979.

Why we should be in this nightclub escapes me but I do recall we had a fabulous time sipping champagne and gossiping. Or perhaps it was the other way round. We later met to talk more but our paths didn't cross again I'm afraid. Nonetheless, it came as a bolt of sadness to read that Viola Wills passed away on 6 May following a long battle against leukaemia. She was 69 years old.

Vi was living alone in London at the time of the single's release, with no family but a loyal contingent of friends around her for company. She loathed being by herself she told me but I've got a lot of men friends to whom I can relate. I rely on everybody because I've never been independent. Most of my friends put up with me, and I'd die if I couldn't depend on them.

Let's back track awhile. Viola Mae Wilkerson was born in December 1939 in the Watts district, Los Angeles, and at eight years old won a song contest hosted by the Federation of Baptist Churches. This led to a scholarship to the Conservatory of Music, Los Angeles, where she studied the piano. Her real ambition was to be a lawyer but, unfortunately, that wasn't an option for her. She married as a teenager and had six children, but secretly longed to escape her lifestyle. She turned to singing because it came easy to her. Her cousin, Esther Ray Potts, invited her to provided support vocals for a recording session which linked her up with Barry White before he was a successful artist. At the time, he was head of A&R for Bob Keane's Bronco/Mustang Records and signed Vi as a solo artist, changing her surname to Wills. While there she recorded several titles like 'Together Forever', 'I've Got To Have All Of You' and 'You're Out Of My Mind' in 1967, but none took off, although during the seventies one of her songs 'Lost Without The Love Of My Guy' was sampled for a track on Barry White's Love Unlimited album 'In Heat'. When Barry and Vi split up, she recorded unsuccessfully for the BEM Soul label. Nonetheless, via a licensing deal with President, her material was available over here including a Northern Soul favourite 'The First Time'. Later on, Gloria Jones came into her life. "She was a producer at Motown, as well as a singer and songwriter, and she'd had a really big hit with Gladys Knight. At the time she was organising some singers for Joe and I happened to be around. Joe liked us and we just started recording there and then. I replaced Claudia Linnear and we became the Sanctified Sisters â�� Gloria, Beverley Gardner, Virginia Ayers and myself. We were a gospelly sort of group â�� and because Joe was that sort of singer he gave us scope. He sang gospel and blues which is why the combination worked out so nicely. As the Sanctified Sisters they toured Europe with Joe, where Vi was also given a solo spot to perform her version of Aretha Franklin's 'Do Right Woman' which became a highlight of Joe's live show. The Sanctified Sisters lasted two years.

While in Europe with Joe Cocker Vi signed a deal with the British company Goodear Records in 1974, the same year she released her solo debut album 'Soft Centers' featuring her self-penned material backed by Joe's session musicians. Three years later she joined Arista Records, then its subsidiary Hansa where she eventually enjoyed success with her cover of 'Gonna Get Along Without You Now', first recorded by Teresa Brewer, but more successfully sung by the American duo Patience and Prudence during 1956. Vi's version was an extremely happy go lucky version aimed squarely at the disco/hi-NRG market which passed silver status sales here in October 1979. At one point, the silver disc hung on her bathroom wall because it blended well with the d�cor. That single started out as a result of some session work I was doing. If I'd waited longer and stuck to my guns perhaps I'd be doing something different. Maybe not as successful though. That's the only thing that makes me say it's good that I did it. When I got the disc I thought to myself it's an achievement and it shows me that a lot of people liked the record. So it basically represents people. Her 'Without You' album followed, while her new single was another dance track 'If You Could Read My Mind' which, for some reason, failed to repeat its predecessor's success, likewise the following 'Up On The Roof'. However, this didn't deter an album being released in 1980 featuring these titles among the track listing.

Around this time Vi decided to leave London for America where she worked on a music therapy degree, before her version of 'Stormy Weather' hit the top four in the US dance chart in 1982, the year she divorced her first husband to marry Robert Ashmun with whom she formed RVA Records. Her released work here included 'Wall' and 'If These Walls Could Speak'. She also wrote and produced her autobiographical one-woman show 'Willspower'. But the UK beckoned where the resurgence in eighties music was too much for her to resist. She formed her own band with some graduates from Brighton University, to create her own brand of music which she tagged 'Jazzspel' (jazz and gospel). And, during 1986 she charted over here for the last time with the double-sided single 'Both Sides Now'/'Dare To Dream', her own composition built around her favourite saying aim for the sky and always dare to dream. The single returned her to the top forty. (In 2008 a remixed version of the latter was issued.) She continued to release singles like 'A House Is Not A Home', 'Love Pains', 'Take One Step Forward' and 'Always Something There To Remind Me', but nothing worked. Nonetheless, she was a regular attraction on the touring circuit, and was feted by the gay scene where she became a huge favourite with audiences. A disco diva for sure.

One aspect of her career that she loathed was being recognised, claiming Viola Wills was a monster she had created merely as a means to an end. Like, the wigs and the whole glamour trip. I thought that was what was needed..then I realised that was a load of bullshit and decided to hell with that plastic trip. People..they can see right through it. And perhaps rather surprisingly, she also admitted disco music wasn't for her but that it paid the rent and ensured her name stayed public. I'm paying my dues now, then perhaps I can do what I wanna do. Which of course she did!

Viola Wills died in Pheonix, Arizona. She leaves behind six children, 21 grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. Our thoughts and condolences to them and her whole family. Farewell Vi; you were a great talent and a fun-loving, caring lady. Have a safe journey.

(Quotes: 'Chinwaggin')

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Island Records 50th Birthday celebrations

Happy birthday Island records!... To celebrate this landmark birthday the iconic label that is Island records have laid on a series of concerts (one per night) at London's 02 Shepherds Bush Empire coming complete with stunning line-up...

From Tuesday the 26th of May 'Island Life' 6 days of concert heaven takes place. Full details of this week of not to be missed gigs feature below... Included in these celibrations are the likes of Amy Winehouse, Grace Jones, Aswad (with Brinsley Forde, Drummie Zeb and Tony Gad), Sly & Robbie and The Compass Point All Stars, Baaba Maal, VV Brown, Tinchy Stryder and the I-Threes (featuring Rita Marley, Marcia Griffiths and Erica Newell) to name just a few PHHHHEW!

26th May:
SLY & ROBBIE & THE COMPASS POINT ALLSTARS featuring GRACE JONES, ASWAD, THE I-THREES, TINCHY STRYDER, VV BROWN;

27th May:
THE FRATELLIS; STEEL PULSE; BOMBAY BICYCLE CLUB;

28th May:
CAT STEVENS/YUSUF; BAABA MAAL

29th May:
PAUL WELLER; SPOOKY TOOTH; ERNEST RANGLIN

30th May:
KEANE; TOM TOM CLUB; LADYHAWKE

31st May:
AMY WINEHOUSE; TOOTS & THE MAYTALS; I BLAME COCO

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Michael Jackson cancels dates

In a saga that will no doubt out do Star Wars, comes cancellation news of Michael Jackson concerts in July. These dates are being moved to March 2010... Could this be the tip of the ice-berg as Jacko attempts to captain this Titanic tour.

Michael Jackson has re-scheduled the opening four nights of his residency at London's O2 arena, with show promoters and producers AEG Live citing the "sheer magnitude of the concerts" for the delay. His initial O2 London tour dates, The show for July 8th will now take place a few days later on July 13th, the show scheduled for July 10th is moved to March 1st, 2010, the July 12th date is moved to March 3rd, 2010, and the concert for July 14th will now take place on March 6th 2010.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

K'Naan Tuesday May 26 @Cargo + fancy an open mic Spot?

What are you doing next Tuesday???... Do yourself a favour and get down to London's Cargo to catch rap-star showman K'Naan in action. After selling out the Jazz cafe and Cargo in 2006 he's back for an eagerly awaited return.

In 2007 K'Naan (meaning "traveler" in Somali) released the live album 'On the Road' which won Best Newcomer in the prestigious BBC Radio 3 Awards, now two years later, his new album 'Troubadour' will became one of raps must have albums of 2009. K'naan will be performing material from this eagerly anticipated new album (released in the UK later this year) next Tuesday on what promises to be an absolute scorcher of a show.

To make the night even more exciting (impossible), K'NAAN has opened the traditional support slot to any UK MC's who would like to perform on the famous Cargo stage (OOOkkkkk). The open mic support will give a chance for UK talent to shine in front of K'NAAN and industry tastemakers (v nice).

This opportunity will be open to any attendees at the show from 7pm. To register interest in performing please email competitions@aeglive.co.uk

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

True Soul @The Gramaphone Bar & Club Saturday 23rd May

Giving you the heads-up on an event not to be missed, True Soul's Modern and Xover soul night taking place on Saturday 23rd of May. This night has gone from strength to strength since it's launch and now moves to prestigious venue 'The Gramaphone bar & Club' in London's Commercial Street.

The words plush and atmospheric immediately spring to mind when describing this top notch venue. Team that with True Soul's stella line-up and tickets will surely sell well. Dj line-up comes in the mighty shape of is legendary residents Terry Jones, Kenny Mac, and Mick Farrer plus SPECIAL GUEST Bob Jones. Upstairs on the decks you'll find Ivor Jones, Ady Pountain, Gareth Donovan and Ed Stokes. For a top night you can bank on this bank holiday.

Tickets are a very modest Â�7 in advance and Â�10 on the door

Don't forget to tune in to Kenny Mac presents 'True Soul' on solarradio.com/ sky channel 0129 from 6pm-8pm on first Sunday of every month.
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Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

And the Southport winner is...

Drum roll please.... Thank you!?... The winner of B&S' 24hr competition giveaway to win two tickets to May's Southport Weekender is... 'Emma Pugh' from South Wales. Congrats Emma - and boy is she pleased!

A HUGE thank you to all those that entered - we were staggered by the hundreds of you which entered the competition in the last 24 hours. Tickets for Southport 44 were snapped-up an age ago, as this ever popular weekender proves why it's one of the best out there... Roll on Southport 45!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

DIZZEE RASCAL Tongue N Cheek OCTOBER TOUR DATES

Here are the details of Dizzee Rascal's UK tour this October, following the release of his fourth album, 'Tongue N Cheek', in September... Hopefully Semtex will be persuaded to repeat his VDJ'ing at these dates also- you never know.

Tour dates:

06 Oct: Newcastle, O2 Academy
07 Oct: Manchester, Apollo
09 Oct: Cambridge, Corn Exchange
10 Oct: Exeter, University Great Hall
11 Oct: Bristol, O2 Academy
12 Oct: Nottingham, Rock City
14 Oct: Bournemouth, Opera House
16 Oct: Norwich, UEA
17 Oct: Birmingham, O2 Academy
24 Oct: Liverpool, University
25 Oct: Sheffield, O2 Academy
26 Oct: Leeds, O2 Academy
27 Oct: Brighton, Dome

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Grace Jones to play Somerset House series and Latitude Festival in July

Grace Jones is to play Somerset House on the 9th of July as part of this summers Somerset House series... other artists booked to play include Lily Allen, Pendulum, Athlete and The Ting Tings...

It's never a dull moment with Ms Jones, but mix that with the idlic out door setting of the Somerset House and this is sure to be one scorcher of a summer concert - sun-tan lotion at max, and sun glasses at the ready (Ray-bans of couse. It is Grace Jones after all).

Also look out for Grace playing The Latitude Festival in Suffolk the week after... this has an astounding amount of acts turning up including The Pet Shop boys.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

IVOR NOVELLO NOMINATIONS ANNOUNCED

The Ivor Novello award nominations have been announced; Duffy leads the way with three nominations... Also nominated: Dizzee Rascal 'Dance With Me', MIA 'Paper Planes' and Gabriella Cilmi 'Sweet About Me'

Here are the nominations in full...

Best Song Musically & Lyrically:
The Last Shadow Puppets - My Mistakes Were Made For You
Elbow - One Day Like This
The Leisure Society - The Last Of The Melting Snow

Best Contemporary Song:
Dizzee Rascal - Dance Wiv Me
Elbow - Grounds For Divorce
The Ting Tings - That's Not My Name

Best Original Film Score:
David Arnold - Quantum of Solace
Benjamin Wallfisch - The Escapist
Jonny Greenwood - There Will Be Blood

Best Television Soundtrack
Ben Bartlett - Fiona's Story
Anne Dudley - Trial and Retribution 2008
Julian Nott - Wallace and Gromit (A Matter of Loaf and Death)

PRS For Music Most Performed Work
Duffy - Mercy
Gabriella Cilmi - Sweet About Me
Coldplay - Viva La Vida

Best Selling British Song
Duffy - Mercy
MIA - Paper Planes
Coldplay - Viva La Vida

Album Award:
Duffy - Rockferry
Coldplay - Viva La Vida or Death And All His Friends
The Ting Tings - We Started Nothing

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

New Super Group: TOUR DE 4FORCE

News has recently been released about a new supergroup - Tour De 4Force which has brought together five high profile artists experienced in their particular musical fields.

Comprising ex-Supreme Scherrie Payne, Joyce and Pam Vincent from Tony Orlando & Dawn, The Emotions' Theresa Davis and the only male Mr Jim Gilstrap, their debut album is causing a considerable stir. Titled 'Quiet Moon', the brainchild of Marcia Parks, it has attracted the support of other respected artists including ex- Temptation Ali Ollie Woodson on the tracks 'Four Walls' and 'Heaven Bound', a song originally recorded by Chaka Khan and Rufus, under the direction of Quincy Jones.

Encouraged by loyal fans who have followed the careers of these talented artists through the years, Tour De 4Force is already enjoying a massive response to their formation, as evidenced by the 100,000+ hits in a mere three weeks to their music playlist on their Myspace page.

Chicago-based Hustlefilms has launched the first installment of a several-part online series on the group, and in the coming weeks will present an in-depth look at the group's conception, behind-the-scenes exclusives and so on as the group prepares to hit the road to support the release of 'Quiet Moon' and their debut single 'Godsend'. Check out the first installment of the Hustlefilms story on hustlefilms.com

Sharon Davis is on the case and will shortly be bringing more news, including a review of 'Quiet Moon'. Meantime, for any further information please contact tourde4force@aol.com

Also check out Sharon's 'Motown Tracking' column; exclusive to B&S - This month MT looks at Motown superstar Stevie Wonder An absolute must for any fan!:)

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Lil Wayne extra live U.K date added on 7th of July 2009

Lil' Wayne will play another not to be missed live show in London on 7th July at The HMV Hammersmith Apollo. This date has been added after the announced show on 6th sold out. Both shows will also feature rising hip-hop star Kid Cudi.

Following his spectacular success last year as far and away the biggest artist in America, Lil Wayne looks set to make 2009 his own, with his feverishly anticipated new Cash Money / Universal album 'Rebirth, which will be released on June 8th.

Wayne's staggering success in 2008, both commercially and critically, was recognised at the 2009 Grammy's where he won 4 Awards (Best Rap Song, Album, Performance and Performance by a Duo or Group). â��THA CARTER III' was the top-selling album of any genre in the US last year where it's fast approaching the 3 million sales mark. In the UK Wayne has sold over 130,000 copies of the album, propelled by the enduring hit single 'Lollipop' and has also been smashing it around the world as the featured guest on prot�g� Kevin Rudolph's 2 million selling hit 'Let It Rock' which went Top 5 in the UK.

The tickets are priced at Â�32.50 excluding booking fee.

So what you waiting for?;)

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Heads High Live: Friday 3rd April @ Vibe Live

Just to give you a quick low-down on what we feel is going to be a big night in London town - every friday at the Vibe bar in Bricklane. I quote "promises blur the boundaries between live performance and the art of DJ" worth checking out methinks.

Cosmic Afro-Jazz in a London style, the music of headline guests Eardrum speaks of harsh urban surroundings whilst dreaming of African suns and open skies. With a nine-piece line-up that includes Tony Allen collaborator Richard Olatunde Baker (Talking Drum), Jason Yarde (Saxphone/Percussion/Flute), ex-Lagos Shrine player Ayokunie Odia (Saxophone) and a host of dancefloor igniting percussionists.

Keeping the flow, residents and hosts the Heads High Soundsystem continue to blur the boundaries between live performance and the art of DJ (see I told ya!?) but this time with a distinctly tribalistic twist. Founded and directed by Duke Etienne, the combination of Jamaican songstress and Lee Perry collaborator Connie Bell, spoken word dynamo 4Real (Rebel Music), turntablist DJ Judge (Sensei FM) and musician/arranger Wayne Francis (United Vibrations) equates to a next-level journey into rhythm and rhyme.

Heads High @ Vibe Live â�� Friday April 3rd
Venue: Vibe Live (Upstairs @ Vibe Bar)
Address: Truman Brewery, 91 Brick Lane, E1 6QL
Times: 8pm-1am
Entry: Â�4
Line Up: Eardrum / Heads High Soundsystem / LR feat Dylan Sage & Josefin / Cal Jader

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Hampton Court Palace Festival June 2nd - 13th

Now here's a thing, a very special thing infact... 'The Hampton court Palace Festival' - An outside venue which comes complete with idilic palace setting, along with a top notch line-up inc James Morrison, Level 42, Lemar & Beverley Knight. Interested?

Now in its 17th year with the most intimate of settings and a backdrop steeped in history. Hampton Court Palace comes alive with these three extra special concerts. A perfect setting for a pre-concert picnic and music under the stars from Brit Award-winning James Morrison, bass driven jazz funk from Level 42 and two of London's most talented award-winning soul singers Beverley Knight & Lemar will take to the stage.

Tickets to this event will be on general sale from 6th April

Level 42 - Friday 5th June | 9pm
Tickets: Â�42.50 | Â�45

Beverley Knight & Lemar - Tuesday 9th June | 9pm
Tickets: Â�42.50 | Â�45 | Â�55*

James Morrison - Wednesday 10th June | 9pm
Tickets: Â�42.50 | Â�47.50 | Â�57.50*

See you there!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Budvar Cheltenham Jazz Festival announce 2009 line-up

The Cheltenham Jazz festival line-up has been announced and boy does it look tasty. Good job they've got Budvar sponsoring to wash it down! But seriously, a great line-up with a slightly younger vibe putting the cooooool firmly into the festival.

Highlights and events to look out for include, star turn (playing on the last evening) Nigel Kennedy. South African's finest Hugh Masekela. Jazz meets gospel with a very special night including Ruach Mass Choir; guests including Mica Paris, Ian Shaw, Jason Yarde and Alex Wilson. Cool swinger Lea Delaria, piano funny man Joe Stilgoe (pictured), up n'coming Lizzy Parks and Imelda May, actor/trumpter Colin Salmon (look out for Dame Judy Dench in the crowd). Something different with jazz punk rockers Get The Blessing, latin jazz infused Alex Wilson. They were amazing at the Big Chill Portico Quartet (pictured) - playing the Hung AND truly an artist of the moment Madeleine Peyroux (phew!). Just to name a few... As you can see it's going to be a superb festival, with never a dull jazz moment.

Here is a more digestible list of events well worth their gate money... See you there!

Lizzy Parks
Tuesday 28 April 2009

The Ruach Mass Choir with guests: Mica Paris, Ian Shaw, Alex Wilson and Jason Yarde
Tuesday 28 April 2009

Lea Delaria
Wednesday 29 April 2009

TG Collective
Wednesday 29 April 2009

Imelda May
Wednesday 29 April 2009

Soul Jazz Orchestra + Lack of Afro + Dj's Pete Isaac (Jelly Jazz), Cool Cut C
Wednesday 29 April 2009

Todd Gordon
Thursday 30 April 2009

Joe Stilgoe
Thursday 30 April 2009

Martino Unstrung
Thursday 30 April 2009

Friday Night Is Music Night
Thursday 30 April 2009

Beardyman and the Scratch Perverts
Thursday 30 April 2009

Jazz Jive Night
Friday 1 May 2009

Colin Salmon
Friday 1 May 2009

Hugh Masekela
Friday 1 May 2009

Pat Martino and Julian Arguelles double bill
Friday 1 May 2009

Xposed Club: The Convergence Quartet, Ernst Reijseger solo, Alex Ward + Chris Cundy Duo
Friday 1 May 2009

Salsa Squad dance class
Friday 1 May 2009

Get The Blessing
Friday 1 May 2009

Jazz on 3
Friday 1 May 2009

Will Vinson Quartet
Saturday 2 May 2009

BBC Radio 3 Jazz Library
Saturday 2 May 2009

Nikki Yeoh Trio Infinitum with John Surman
Saturday 2 May 2009

The Profound Sound Trio
Saturday 2 May 2009

BBC Big Band with Dave Liebman
Saturday 2 May 2009

Robert Mitchell 3iO
Saturday 2 May 2009

Gloucestershire Youth Jazz Orchestra and Trinity Jazz Ensemble
Saturday 2 May 2009

Alex Wilson Salsa Orchestra
Saturday 2 May 2009

Madeleine Peyroux
Saturday 2 May 2009

Sunday Lunch with Joe Stilgoe
Sunday 3 May 2009

Tom Arthurs' Subtopia
Sunday 3 May 2009

Phil Robson Quartet with Dave Liebman
Sunday 3 May 2009

Portico Quartet
Sunday 3 May 2009

Jack DeJohnette with Jerwood All Stars
Sunday 3 May 2009

Arve Henriksen
Sunday 3 May 2009

Dave Douglas Quintet
Sunday 3 May 2009

Gloucestershire Jazz Live Big Band
Sunday 3 May 2009

Don Byron's New Gospel Quintet
Sunday 3 May 2009

Trumpet Masterclass
Monday 4 May 2009

Adam Jackson
Monday 4 May 2009

Chris Bowden's Tomorrow Band
Monday 4 May 2009

Nigel Kennedy Quintet
Monday 4 May 2009

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Cameo play Indigo2 on April 18th... Word Up!

Cameo are coming to town April to play a one-off gig on Saturday 18th @London's Indigo2... The red codpiece himself - Larry Blackmon and the rest of the boys are donning leather and lyrica for a VERY special show.

These 80's R&B funkerteers were ripping-up dance floors everywhere with hits like 'Back & Forth','She's Strange', 'Word Up!' (remember the album cover?) and with that immortal baseline intro and absolute TUNE!... 'Candy.'

Blackmon, known for his famous 'high top fade' hair and his signature "ow!" may even dust down THAT codpiece and bust those trademark moves, putting on what is sure to be one hell of a show. Not only the "single ladies clap your hands," but so will the guys at this rare not to be missed event. We are giving you the Word Up (sorry I couldn't help it!?) on this one... BUY THOSE TICKETS NOW as this is surely going to be a sell-out... If you don't, (I'm shaking my head here) don't say I didn't warn you!

Tickets include an after-show party which promises to play 'Party Classics' a plenty.

See you there!;)

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch Laura Izibor's Story: Let The Truth Be Told

Laura Izibor Shines right here on B&S as we go behind the scenes and glimpse into her past - where she grew up, what inspired and who influenced her. You get a phone call at school to support James Brown, then you gotta go!... To be sure you do;)

You might recognize Irish soul songstress Laura Izibor as the artist who recently released the hit single 'Shine' and supported John Legend on tour... But there's more... a LOT more...

Enjoy Laura Izibor's story, as told from the lady herself: 'Let The Truth Be Told.'

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Black Cultural Archives Community Fundraiser

Something very special is happening at the o2 Brixton Academy this Sunday the 29th of March - It's the first Black Cultural Archives Community Fundraiser, which is part of International Women's Month.

This International Women's event features the cream of black culture and entertainment - those appearing and performing include: Comedians - Gina Yashere & Richard Blackwood, Mobo Award Winner Yolanda Brown, Actor/Rapper - Ashley Walters, International recording artist - Omar, R&B's finest - Kele Le Roc, One of the best dance acts around Crazy Cousins feat. Kyla and Gospel from Roger Samuals.

It doesn't just stop there either... There's Poetry from Floetic Lara, Dance from Indianna Reece, Status and 2 Hypa. Not to mention Speakers glore in the shape of Michael Lyon - BCA, Richard Taylor - Damilola Taylor Trust, Derek Bardowell - Stephen Lawrence Trust, Lez Henry - Nu Beyond. Plus a host of local performers and artists.

Don't forget this is a charity event for a VERY worthy cause in aid of BCA (Black Cultural Archives) - to build a 'Cultural Heritage Centre' in Brixton, planned to open in 2011. The centre is to archive and preserve black histories, identities and culture. This will be the first multifunctional 'National Black Heritage Centre' dedicated to black culture and heritage in Britain. So please go and support your/our heritage.

This prestigious event has the support of International Women's Month, which unlike it's title is not just for this month - the WEBSITE is year round, as it aims to support campaigns in the community.

Tickets for this can be obtained for the o2 Brixton Academy box office and are very reasonably priced for this event at Â�17 & Â�20. The doors open at 7pm and the show starts at 8pm (sharp)... This event is fully seated. To buy your tickets now, click below and follow the box office details.

See you there!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Kanye West Headlines Wireless Festival SUNDAY 05/07/09

The Event:The Wireless Festival... The place: Hyde Park... The date: Sunday July 5th... The artist: KANYE WEST.... This years headliner was announced as a sweet complement to follow Saturday's headliner - Basement Jaxx.

KANYE WEST is the headline act for Sunday 5th July in Hyde Park. West is arguably the biggest hip-hop act in the world at this very moment, so a bit of a coup for the Wireless posse me thinks. Also this (I hear) will be his only UK show for 2009. Previous West shows at the 02 were totally sold out, so expect the same here. With West headlining Sunday night - Wireless 2009 looks set to be the place to be on the 4th/5th of July with Basement Jaxx, The Streets, Dizzee Rascal and Paul Oakenfold already added to the Festival on Saturday 4th of July.

Tickets for Kanye West on Sunday go on general sale 9am on FRIDAY MARCH 27th, with an early bird price of just Â�40 for the day ticket - tis a bit of a bargain! Register on the wireless site (click below) and access those tickets 24 hours earlier:

MEMBERS PRE-SALE STARTS AT 9AM ON 26th OF MARCH!

SEE YOU THERE!;)

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Michael Jackson plays 50 dates... so far!

There are fifty shows and counting at the moment for Michael Jackson's 'Tis Is It Tour' - Are there any more in the pipeline? Probably!? The 50 shows won't be back to back, meaning that the residency will now run into 2010.

They kept on adding more Michael Jackson o2 gigs as more people registered for tickets. Jackson's 'This Is It' shows kept multiplying while people registered - so true to their word AEG Live kept adding dates as demand for tickets kept out growing the number of shows. When will it stop we ask ourselves???

AEG's Randy Phillips said: "Not only are these concerts unparalleled, these records will never be broken. We knew this was show business history, but this is a cultural phenomenon"... No Randy it's a concert! And all we all want is tickets, thousands of people have been disapointed so far as they are left for hours cuing on the phone, not a problem you look like having yourself!?... It's like cuing for a ride at Disney World only to find when you get to the front of the cue, it goes round the corner as far as your eye's can see - time to step up Randy and keep adding those dates!

LIST OF DATES SO FAR:

July 2009: 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30

August 2009: 1, 3, 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26, 28, 30

September 2009: 1, 3, 6, 8, 10, 21, 23, 27, 29

January 2010: 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 18, 23, 25, 27, 29

February 2010: 1, 3, 8, 10, 12, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24

VIDEO: Man In The Mirror from the 1988 Grammys - WOW, doesn't time fly!

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BROWN/RIHANNA DUET CONFIRMED

A publicist for producer Polow Da Don has confirmed that he has produced the rumoured, and previously reported, duet between reconciled couple Rihanna and Chris Brown.

According to CNN, The producer said in a statement: "My heart goes out to both Chris and Rihanna for what has happened in the past. They are both great artists to work with, and I wish them well".

reports claim that the track was originally written just for Rihanna, and Brown only came to be involved following the alleged incident on 8 Feb in which Brown is accused of beating up his girlfriend following an argument over a text message. Can't help thinking it's all just part of a big push to minimise the impact of all this on Brown's career. Whether he can truly reform his character or not remains to be seen.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Watch Lemar's Band new video at B&S

Hands-up who wants to hear Lemar's new tune 'Weight Of The World' -Ok hands down... Now hands-up who wants to see Lemar's new video - Hands down... Right then, hands-up who wants to see and hear it NOW?... Well that's carried then - watch away...

It's Lemar and the video is new single 'Weight Of The World'...

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

STAX REISSUES A PAIR FROM ISAAC HAYES

Isaac Hayes' 1971 album 'Black Moses' and 1976 album 'Juicy Fruit (Disco Freak)' will be reissued on Stax Records here on 30 March 2009.

'Black Moses' is a complete replication of the original packaging while the album was re-mastered from the original tapes. The 14-song two-album set, reissued now on two cds, may best be remembered for its lead single, Hayes' signature version of The Jackson 5's 'Never Can Say Goodbye'. Other highlights include the Carpenters' hit 'Close To You', Gene Chandler's hit 'Man's Temptation', Aretha Franklin's 'Brand New Me' and Curtis Mayfield's 'Need To Belong.

'Juicy Fruit (Disco Freak)' is one of the few Hayes' albums totally written by him and includes several gems like 'Let's Don't Ever Blow Our Thing', 'The Storm Is Over' and 'Music To Make Love By'. The album was originally issued on his Hot Buttered Soul label and recorded at his own Memphis studio with many of his long-time band members. Isaac's unexpected death at the age of 65 on 10 August 2008 robbed us of a great talent. Thankfully, his music lives on!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Extra tickets for Beyonce's new U.K dates

Superstar Diva Beyonce has added new dates to the U.K leg of her 'I am...' world tour. Tickets go on sale this Fridays - but you can get on the pre-order list by following our Buy Now link. so, be quick or be VERY disappointed!?!

Fri 22/05/09 Metro Radio Arena - Newcastle Upon Tyne

Sat 06/06/09 Standing Liverpool Echo Arena - Liverpool

Sat 06/06/09 Seated Liverpool Echo Arena - Liverpool

Sun 07/06/09 Sheffield Arena - Sheffield

Mon 08/06/09 The O2 - London

Don't forget to follow our Buy Now link for pre-sale tickets...

VIDEO: Put A Ring On It.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

BEYONCE'S european tour dates

DAY/DATE CITY VENUE

Sun 26-Apr Zagreb, Croatia Arena

Tue 28-Apr Vienna, Austria Stadthalle

Wed 29-Apr Budapest, Hungary Arena

Thu 30-Apr Prague, Czech Republic o2

Sat 2-May Rotterdam, Holland Ahoy

Tue 5-May Paris, France Bercy

Wed 6-May Strasbourg, France Zenith

Thu 7-May Antwerp, Belgium Sportpalais

Fri 8-May Berlin, Germany o2

Sun 10-May Herning, Denmark MCH Arena

Mon 11-May Gothenburg, Sweden Scandinavium

Wed 13-May Stockholm, Sweden Globen

Fri 15-May Koln, Germany Arena

Sat 16-May Zurich, Switzerland Hallenstadion

Mon 18-May Lisbon, Portugal Atlantico

Tue 19-May Madrid, Spain Palacio Desportes

Wed 20-May Barcelona, Spain Palau St Jordi

Sat 23-May Birmingham, UK NIA

Mon 25-May London, UK The o2 Arena

Wed 27-May Manchester, UK MEN

Fri 29-May Dublin, Ireland o2

Sun 31-May Belfast, UK Odyssey

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

100 Greatest Singers

Here is the recent full list of the 'hundred great singers ever' printed in Rolling Stone Magazine. As you can see there is a good showing form the world of Soul with Queen Aretha Franklin coming top of the chart.

There were also good showings from Ray Charles No2, Sam Cooke No4, Marvin Gaye No6, Otis Readding No8, Stevie Wonder No9 and James Brown No10 all making the top ten - well of course they did... Do you agree with the rest???

01 | Aretha Franklin

02 | Ray Charles

03 | Elvis Presley

04 | Sam Cooke

05 | John Lennon

06 | Marvin Gaye

07 | Bob Dylan

08 | Otis Redding

09 | Stevie Wonder

10 | James Brown

11 | Paul McCartney

12 | Little Richard

13 | Roy Orbison

14 | Al Green

15 | Robert Plant

16 | Mick Jagger

17 | Tina Turner

18 | Freddie Mercury

19 | Bob Marley

20 | Smokey Robinson

21 | Johnny Cash

22 | Etta James

23 | David Bowie

24 | Van Morrison

25 | Michael Jackson

26 | Jackie Wilson

27 | Hank Williams

28 | Janis Joplin

29 | Nina Simone

30 | Prince

31 | Howlin' Wolf

32 | Bono

33 | Steve Winwood

34 | Whitney Houston

35 | Dusty Springfield

36 | Bruce Springsteen

37 | Neil Young

38 | Elton John

39 | Jeff Buckley

40 | Curtis Mayfield

41 | Chuck Berry

42 | Joni Mitchell

43 | George Jones

44 | Bobby "Blue" Bland

45 | Kurt Cobain

46 | Patsy Cline

47 | Jim Morrison

48 | Buddy Holly

49 | Donny Hathaway

50 | Bonnie Raitt

51 | Gladys Knight

52 | Brian Wilson

53 | Muddy Waters

54 | Luther Vandross

55 | Paul Rodgers

56 | Mavis Staples

57 | Eric Burdon

58 | Christina Aguilera

59 | Rod Stewart

60 | BjÃ�rk

61 | Roger Daltrey

62 | Lou Reed

63 | Dion

64 | Axl Rose

65 | David Ruffin

66 | Thom Yorke

67 | Jerry Lee Lewis

68 | Wilson Pickett

69 | Ronnie Spector

70 | Gregg Allman

71 | Toots HIbbert

72 | John Fogerty

73 | Dolly Parton

74 | James Taylor

75 | Iggy Pop

76 | Steve Perry

77 | Merle Haggard

78 | Sly Stone

79 | Mariah Carey

80 | Frankie Valli

81 | John Lee Hooker

82 | Tom Waits

83 | Patti Smith

84 | Darlene Love

85 | Sam Moore

86 | Art Garfunkel

87 | Don Henley

88 | Willie Nelson

89 | Solomon Burke

90 | The Everly Brothers

91 | Levon Helm

92 | Morrissey

93 | Annie Lennox

94 | Karen Carpenter

95 | Patti LaBelle

96 | B.B. King

97 | Joe Cocker

98 | Stevie Nicks

99 | Steven Tyler

100 | Mary J. Blige

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

WIN TICKETS TO Norman Jay's Good times NYE party at The Kentish Town Forum

After last years sell out at the Clapham Grand, Norman Jay goes north bringing his Good Times (Live) New Years Eve Party to the recently (1.2 million pound) refurbished Kentish Town Forum. Only this year there's a bit of a twist It's fancy dress!

Walk along the red carpet, past the paparazzi & Step into the world of glitz & glamour to spend a night in Tinsel Town for this year's Good Times Live New Years Eve â��˜HOLLYWOOD' themed Fancy Dress Party!!

Norman Jay (MBE) almosts needs no introduction - Famous for attracting huge crowds during the Notting Hill Carnival, and his legendary Sunday sets at the Big Chill festival. I can only reinforce that having witnessed Norman's set first hand at last years BC. Best thing I have witnessed on a Sunday afternoon since - mum's Sunday dinner - sorry Norman.

Joining Sir Norman on the decks is Big Chill Festival favourite - A-Skillz. Who's deck talents involve fusing funk, hip-hop and breaks with his unique style of scratching and mixing. This in turn has won him prime-time slots across the UK at Fabric Live and Spectrum, as well as gigs around the world at parties such as The Hit Factory (New York) & WMC (Miami).

Also featured is one of the best â��˜Live' House bands around - Crazy P. Their last album '24hour Psychedelic Freakout' featured in hmv's â��˜Dance Albums Of The Year.' With DMC declaring them as the most exciting British dance act to evolve since Massive Attack!! Another must see live act confirmed is the hugely talented beat-boxing king - Beardyman.

If this doesn't whet your appertite then nothing will... as we give you the chance to party the night away and bring 2009 in Norman Jay style - on what is sure to be another complete sell-out event. Just answer this simple question for a chance to win one of TWO pairs tickets. And there's even 'Good Times' runners-up CD's to boot.

The NYE party event of the year at the Kenthish Town Forum is called...

A) Good Times
B) Good Chimes
C) Good To Meet You

Answers, Names, Addresses and PHONE NUMBERS please to: competitions@bluesandsoul.com

DON'T FORGET - 'NORMAN JAY' in the SUBJECT BOX - Thanx!

SEE YOU THERE!!!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Motown 50 Poll Result

To celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Motown Records (on January 12th 2009) Universal Music is releasing Motown 50 on December 1st 2008 - a compilation of the GREATEST MOTOWN SONGS chosen by Motown fans worldwide. And here ladies and gentlemen are the results of the poll...

1 AINT NO MOUNTAIN HIGH ENOUGH (Diana Ross)
2 YOU CANT HURRY LOVE (Supremes)
3 I HEARD IT THROUGH THE GRAPEVINE (Marvin Gaye)
4 IM STILL WAITING (Diana Ross)
5 SUPERSTITION (Stevie Wonder)
6 WHEN YOU TELL ME THAT YOU LOVE ME (Diana Ross)
7 WHATS GOING ON (Marvin Gaye)
8 ENDLESS LOVE (Diana Ross & Lionel Richie)
9 BABY LOVE (Supremes)
10 THE TEARS OF A CLOWN (Smokey Robinson & Miracles)
11 I WANT YOU BACK (Jackson 5)
12 REACH OUT (ILL BE THERE) (Four Tops)
13 PAPA WAS A ROLLIN STONE (Temptations)
14 THE TRACKS OF MY TEARS (Smokey Robinson & Miracles)
15 MY GIRL (Temptations)
16 STOP! IN THE NAME OF LOVE (Supremes)
17 LETS GET IT ON (Marvin Gaye)
18 WHAT BECOMES OF THE BROKEN HEARTED-JimmyRuffin
19 DANCING IN THE STREET (Martha Reeves & Vandellas)
20 JUST MY IMAGINATION (Temptations)
21 SOMEDAY WELL BE TOGETHER (Supremes)
22 HEAVEN MUST HAVE SENT YOU (Elgins)
23 UPSIDE DOWN (Diana Ross)
24 LIVING FOR THE CITY (Stevie Wonder)
25 TOUCH ME IN THE MORNING (Diana Ross)
26 ABC (Jackson 5)
27 EASY (Commodores)
28 WHERE DID OUR LOVE GO (Supremes)
29 I CANT HELP MYSELF (Four Tops)
30 THEME FROM MAHOGANY (Diana Ross)
31 AS (Stevie Wonder)
32 LOVE CHILD (Diana Ross & The Supremes)
33 WAR (Edwin Starr)
34 THE BOSS (Diana Ross)
35 I HEAR A SYMPHONY (Supremes)
36 FOR ONCE IN MY LIFE (Stevie Wonder)
37 REFLECTIONS (Supremes)
38 LOVE HANGOVER (Diana Ross)
39 YOU KEEP ME HANGIN ON (Supremes)
40 MY WORLD IS EMPTY WITHOUT YOU (Supremes)
41 IM GONNA MAKE YOU LOVE ME (Diana Ross & Supremes)
42 THERES A GHOST IN MY HOUSE (R Dean Taylor)
43 REMEMBER ME (Diana Ross)
44 DONT LEAVE ME THIS WAY (Thelma Houston)
45 COME SEE ABOUT ME (Supremes)
46 NEEDLE IN A HAYSTACK (Velvelettes)
47 GOT TO BE THERE (Michael Jackson)
48 PLEASE MR POSTMAN (Marvelettes)
49 NEITHER ONE OF US (Gladys Knight & The Pips)
50 MY GUY (Mary Wells)

The tracklisting for the 'MOTOWN 50' album is slightly different to the poll's Top 50 Songs, as some of the tracks they were not able to get clearence to use. Also with so many Diana Ross/Supremes tracks, they excluded a few or one of the CDs would have been a Diana Ross/Supremes Best Of!! (not such a bad idea in our eyes).

For the 'Motown 50' album listing (due on Dec 1st) CLICK HERE

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Check out the new Jelluzz - hold on video

Heads up on this killer video for the up and coming Jelluzz - You'll be hearing a lot more from this geezer in the coming months as he has been selected as a spokesperson for Love Music Hate Racism.

Other notable developments include being chosen for an official UK remix of the next Chingy track, and don't forget to look out for the free mixtape - available now from his Myspace page www.myspace.com/jelluzzmusic

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Motown Release - Motown 50 Today, Tomorrow, Forever CD

To celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Motown Records (on January 12th 2009) Universal Music is releasing Motown 50 - Today, Tomorrow, Forever A compilation of tracks chosen by Motown fans worldwide.

Universal Motown launched the GREATEST MOTOWN SONGS poll. The poll ran for four weeks throughout October and the ultimate Motown Top 50 has been selected combining the entries from both the UK and International polls.
As well as 50 of the hottest Motown tunes of all time from the 60s to the 80s the 3 CD UK version also features some hard to find covers with some of the most outstanding artists singing songs from their peers. The legend that is Stevie Wonder gives us a mesmerising and very funky take on 'Light My Fire.' There's also a cracking version of 'Everybody's Talking' by The Four Tops followed by unbelievable renditions of classic tracks from The Temptations with 'The First Time I Ever Saw Your Face' and Martha Reeves & The Vandellas with girly sing-along favourite 'I Say A Little Prayer.' The album also contains 3 rarely compiled Stevie Wonder tracks; Superstition, Sir Duke and Masterblaster (Jammin).

The public have decided on their favourite 50 to mark the anniversary of arguably the most influential record label ever. And here they are...

CD1

1) Marvin Gaye - I Heard It Through The Grapevine
2) Martha Reeves & The Vandellas - Dancing In The Street
3) The Supremes - Baby Love
4) Four Tops - I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)
5) The Velvelettes - Needle In A Haystack
6) The Temptations - Get Ready
7) The Supremes - You Can't Hurry Love
8) The Elgins - Heaven Must Have Sent You
9) Martha Reeves & The Vandellas - Nowhere To Run
10) Martha Reeves & The Vandellas - Jimmy Mack
11) The Isley Brothers - This Old Heart Of Mine
12) Smokey Robinson & The Miracles - The Tears Of A Clown
13) Jackson 5 - ABC
14) Marvin Gaye & Kim Weston - It Takes Two
15) Mary Wells - My Guy
16) The Contours - Do You Love Me
17) Frank Wilson - Do I Love You (Indeed I Do)
18) R. Dean Taylor - There's A Ghost In My House
19) The Supremes - Stop! In The Name Of Love
20) Jr. Walker & The All Stars - Shotgun
21) Stevie Wonder - Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours)
22) Jackson 5 - I Want You Back
23) Diana Ross & Marvin Gaye - You Are Everything
24) Diana Ross - Ain't No Mountain High Enough

CD2

1) Stevie Wonder - Superstition
2) The Temptations - Papa Was A Rollin' Stone
3) Marvin Gaye - What's Going On
4) Commodores - Brick House
5) Edwin Starr - War
6) The Temptations - My Girl
7) Smokey Robinson & Miracles - The Tracks Of My Tears
8) Lionel Richie & Diana Ross - Endless Love
9) Commodores - Easy
10) Diana Ross & The Supremes - Reflections
11) Four Tops - Reach Out, I'll Be There
12) Marvin Gaye - Let's Get It On
13) Jimmy Ruffin - What Becomes Of The Brokenhearted
14) Michael Jackson - Got To Be There -
15) Smokey Robinson - Being With You
16) Stevie Wonder - Sir Duke
17) The Miracles- Love Machine
18) Lionel Richie - All Night Long (All Night)
19) Diana Ross - Love Hangover
20) Thelma Houston - Don't Leave Me This Way

CD3

1) Stevie Wonder -Masterblaster (Jammin)
2) Commodores - Nightshift
3) Diana Ross - Upside Down
4) Rick James - Super Freak
5) The Temptations - Treat Her Like A Lady
6) Lionel Richie - My Destiny

THE COVER VERSIONS
7) Stevie Wonder - Light My Fire
8) Four Tops - Everybody's Talking
9) Rare Earth - Get Ready
10) Kim Weston & Marvin Gaye - Let's Do It (Let's Fall In Love)
11) Martha Reeves & The Vandellas - I Say A Little Prayer
12) Smokey Robinson & The Miracles - Wichita Lineman
13) Thelma Houston - Jumpin' Jack Flash
14) The Temptations - The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face
15) The Supremes - Come Together
16) David Ruffin - Put A Little Love In Your Heart
17) Michael Jackson - You've Got A Friend

*Top 50 was subject to track clearance and artist consent.

Release Date: 1st December 2008 Label: UMTV

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B&S says Oui to we7

This week see's the introduction to the music world of on-demand music maestros we7... Who?... Well they promise free music from the artists you and I listen to, as part of the 'BIGGEST EVER FREE MUSIC GIVEAWAY' (their words). But is it too good to be true?

Having given the site the once-over I can only say that I can only agree with this shameless boast. I found the site easy to navigate - divided into both artist and genre, that suited most of my needs (except there's no Soul genre tut, tut - see me after class).

I did extensive searches for different artists from different genres and found the site came up trumps every time (damn you!). I have to say I'm already a bit of a fan - as I created my own playlist with relative ease. This means you can have every tune you like in one place and listen to it whenever you like - simple. If you're like me and listen to a lot of music via computer, then this is what you want! I know you have ITunes as do I, but it's not always free right? This service does what it says on the label, your own FREE Jukebox. As we7 clear up all the red tape with artists and record companies, all you have to do is listen to over three million tracks which they have stored in their vaults. And without sounding like an advert, they ad up to 30,000 tracks per day (all in a days listening at B&S). But be warned they don't have everything, as some labels are yet to give them the go ahead to use their tracks. That said, it didn't put me off.

Other features include an unsigned band area, where you can listen to tomorrow's hit-makers - today. Which is a great way to get yourself heard if your a star in the making, as it costs you nothing and potentially you'll be listened to on mass. Another plus that I have to mention, is the facility to share your musical tastes with the world. Create a playlist, then send it to your mates - how cool. (guys, send one to the girls and vice versa - you see where I'm going with this one?) I know you can do the same thing elsewhere in a slightly different way, it's the ease of creation and sharing which makes it so addictive and sets it apart from what's currently out there. Note though to we7: When you create a playlist, an advert at the start of every song is not a good idea - say after every third or fourth song. This will mean the ad's won't get on your nerves as much (maybe they think it will become more subliminal the more you hear it)... Newsflash - it doesn't guys! It get's more annoying - especially the same add every time... Other bits worth a mention but not tried out by yours truly include, attaching playlists to websites, blogs and to social networking sites such as Bebo - again to share with whoever will listen via widgets and links. That's got to be a good thing no?... It's the natural evolution of music.

Last word has to go to We7 CEO, Steve Purdham: It was just 18 months ago that we had the dream (very Martin Luther King) of delivering great music that's free and legal for consumers and where artists and rights owners get paid. Today that dream's a reality. We7 has great music and that builds great audiences which will be highly valuable to brands and advertisers. We're hugely proud of our great service and very excited to be delivering it to the benefit of music fans, artists and brands alike.

Music is finally "Free at last, free at last" ay Steve?;)

Wanna have a we look? Be our guest we7

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NWA'S MC REN TO RELEASE NEW ALBUM

NWA founder member MC Ren has confirmed that he plans to release a fifth studio album via download shortly.

He's been working on his album for a few months now, he told AllHipHop.com: "I just wanted to get back in it for my fans. What I do is for them, so I'm putting this album together called 'RenIncarnated'. I'm going to put it out on the internet for them".

He adamantly refuses to get involved with a label, though, despite the fact that there would be any number willing to market his work.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

hmv ANNOUNCE (IPOD COMPATIBLE) MP3 store launch

HMV have launched its MP3 store, which carries DRM-free content from EMI, Universal and indie labels.

Like Play.com, who launched their MP3 offer earlier this year (and who now have all four majors on board), HMV are playing with price point in a bid to win a share of the market, offering tracks for 69p rather that the industry standard 79p.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

John Legend Announces U.K Tour

Soul singer/songwriter/pianist and Grammy Award Winner John Legend returns to the UK for what is sure to be the hottest ticket in March 2009.

For those who don't know; Prior to the release of his debut album â��˜Get Lifted' in late 2004, Legend guested through a series of collaborations; notably background vocals on Alicia Keys â��˜You Don't Know My Name' & playing piano on Lauryn Hill's â��˜Everything Is Everything.'

John Legend has since gone on to win 5 Grammy Awards (so far) including 2006's â��˜Best New Artist' & â��˜Best Male Pop Vocal Performance'. His new album â��˜Evolver' features Andre 3000 from OutKast and busy boy Legend is even said to be working with Michael Jackson on his next album.

If you missed the recent B&S interview with John Legend CLICK HERE ALSO... Look out for a chance to win John Legend gig tickets in future B&S editions.

Tour Dates:

Monday 09/3/09 Carling Academy Brixton London

Friday 13/3/09 Manchester Apollo

Saturday 14/3/09 Carling Academ Birmingham

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

28th Nov: EARLY BIRD T in the park TICKETS TO GO ON SALE

A small number of tickets for next year's T In The Park will go on sale on 28 Nov, the final early bird tickets at 2008 rates.

Half of the tickets for the 2009 Scottish music fest were snapped up back in July when the early bird offer was first available. A few more discounted tickets will go on sale at 9am on Friday 28 Nov, the last to be sold before full price tickets go on sale next year.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

ICE CUBE in the frame to PRODUCE and WRITE TV SHOW

Ice Cube, who is to write and produce a new comedy show for US network NBC.

Variety have said, Ice Cube himself will not star in the show, but will make some guest appearances, and may write the opening theme tune. It is expected to air next year and has no title yet

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

GROOVE ARMADA PLAY EDINBURGH'S HOGMANAY

Groove Armada are to headline Edinburgh's Hogmanay street party this year, with a performance at the city's Princes Street Gardens.

Groove Armada's Andy Cato: "What appeals to me about Edinburgh's Hogmanay is that it is the most famous celebration of that type in the world.

Pete Irvine, creative director says this: "We've added a new dimension to the event that brings an explosive mix of energetic music and arts. Undoubtedly, to see the best bands and be part of one of the world's best parties, there really is no better place to be than Edinburgh".

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PRODIGY TOUR DATES

The Prodigy have announced UK arena dates for next year, with support from that Dizzee Rascal. The dates are expected to coincide with the band's forthcoming album, which is rumoured to be called 'Invaders Must Die'.

Tour dates:

05 Apr: Cardiff, International Arena
06 Apr: Newcastle, Metro Radio Arena
07 Apr: Glasgow, SECC
09 Apr: Birmingham, NIA
10 Apr: Manchester, MEN Arena
11 Apr: Nottingham, Trent FM Arena
13 Apr: Sheffield, Arena
14 Apr: Brighton, Centre
17 Apr: London, Wembley Arena

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JACKSON REFUNDS FOR SCRAPPED DATES

Representatives for Janet Jackson have said that she will not be rescheduling all of her postponed 'Rock Witchu' tour dates.

Ticket refunds will be available from the point of ticket purchase. As previously reported, Jackson cancelled gigs after being afflicted with vertigo.

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Universal's Lucian Grainge on Winehouse's new album

Lucian Grainge, Universal Music International top man has been raving about the new material Amy Winehouse is currently working on.

Grainge told BBC 6music: "I've heard some demos and I've heard some simple acoustic songs that she's played me in my office on acoustic guitar, and what I've heard has been sensational. I believe in her as a person and I certainly believe in her as an artist and that's what I hope for".

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

London Jazz Festival 2008 Preview

As you may or may not know - the London Jazz festival kicks off on Friday the 14th of November and straddles two Jazz packed weeks at a host of venues across London.

First off, and one of Jazz calendar's events of the year has to be the big festival opening party at the Barbican. The event is called 'Jazz Voice' and has a veritable who's who of the Jazz greats taking part. Also with an added promise of guest artists dropping in (Nigel Kennedy I hear will be one) on an already stella line-up. The event will Celebrate a century of song, and will feature MELODY GARDOT CARLEEN ANDERSON CHRISTINE TOBIN CLEVELAND WATKISS LIANE CARROLL MADELEINE BELL NATE JAMES. The musical director for the evening is none other than Guy Barker, so as I'm sure you'll agree it'll be one hell of a party!

If you don't fancy the opening night at the Barbican. Then toddle along to Ronnie Scotts for another superb night, in which Ronnie's will be broadcasting live to the nation - care of Jez Nelson's Jazz On BBC Radio 3 as the official launch venue of the annual London Jazz Festival.

Other festival highlights include Jazz's current darling Melody Gardot on the 15th performing songs from her critically acclaimed album â��˜Worrisome Heart' and some new material from forthcoming album â��˜My One And Only Thrill', to be released March 2009. Read our Melody Gardot Interview, a truly incredible story.

We return to Ronnie Scotts from the 13th - 15th Nov for one of jazz's most important and prolific voices Vincent Herring who has recorded over fourteen CDs as a leader, and over two hundred as a sideman will be performing with Earth Jazz Agents. This band has developed an original, contemporary sound which is an energetic blend of jazz, funk and soul. With Vincent Herring on saxophone, Anthony Wonsey on piano & keyboards, Richie Goods on electric & acoustic bass and Joris Dudli on drums.

Want something a little different this festival, then how about Dennis Bovell and the Dub Band. Britain's reggae maestro Dennis Bovell is producer, composer, re-mixer, bandleader - and the heaviest bassist in town, pumping out the deepest of body-shaking dub grooves. Sunday 16th November is the day and The venue is Theatre Royal Stratford East Win Tickets

Also on the 16th David McAlmont promises 'A Little Communication Live' @The Jazz Caf�. In 1998 when David McAlmont released â��˜A Little Communication' it was hailed as a British Soul Classic. So for one performance only David takes us on an intimate journey, track by track of the album that was called An Unassuming Masterpiece and the best vocal performance of the year by various publications. We invisige tickets for this evening to sell-out, so I'd book now if I were you.
We revisit Ronnie Scotts for the not to be missed Christine Tobin - album launch on the 18th November. Tobin has been a firm favourite of the UK jazz scene for some time, and deservedly so - the singer has a real knack of drawing the listener into her world, with all of her own compositions and her interpretation of standards bearing her own distinctive mark. She picked up the 2008 BBC Jazz Award for Best Vocalist, after several past nominations, and has toured the country and abroad winning fans and critical acclaim wherever she performs.

The day after (19th - 22nd) sees dynamic duo and jazz world favourites, who indeed need almost no introduction - Cleo Laine and John Dankworth playing in their home from home Ronnie Scotts... Laine remains one of the great jazz singers, coupled with Dankworth's repertoire of landmark big band suites and deftly arranged song cycles continues to expand and surprise. This one is defiantly not to be missed.

OTHER EVENTS AT THIS YEARS LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL, SEE BELOW...

14th Nov - Joe Stilgoe at Ray's Jazz at Foyles 6.00pm
14th Nov - Jazz Voices at Barbican 7.30pm *
14th Nov - Jazz on 3 Show at Ronnie Scott's 10.30pm

15th - Mari Bone at Kings Place Hall One 7.30pm
15th - David Sanchez at Pizza Express 8.30pm
15th - Bugge Wesseltoft - Bugge's Room @Kings Pl Hall Two
15th - West End Jam At Ronnie's at Ronnie Scott's 10.30pm

16th - Esbjorn Svensson Memorial at Southbank /QE Hall, 2pm
16th - Richard Bona & Danilo Perez Trio at Barbican 7.30pm
16th - Richard Galliano & G. Rubalaba @Southbank QE HALL
16th - Soul Family at Ronnie Scott's 8pm
16th - David Sanchez Quartet at Pizza Express Jazz Club 8.30pm

17th - Chris Potter at Ronnie Scott's 7.15pm
17th - [em] + Z-U at Pizza Express Jazz Club 8.30pm
17th - West End Jam - Ronnie Scott's Bar @10.30pm

18th - Kurt Elling at Southbank Centre/Queen Elizabeth Hall 7.30pm With Special Guest Bennie Maupin + Tony Kofi & Jonathan Gee
18th - Geoff Gascoyne at Octave 8pm
18th - West End Jam at Ronnie's at Ronnie Scott's Bar 10.30pm

19th - BBC Big Band with Special guests Roy Hargrove at Southbank Centre/Queen Elizabeth Hall 7.30pm
19th - West End Jam at Ronnie's at Ronnie Scott's at 10.30pm

20th - PUNKT UK - Kings Place Halls One and Two 7.30pm
20th - Buika - Southbank Centre/Queen Elizabeth Hall 7.30pm

20th - Gary Crosby's Nu Troop at Spice Of Life 8pm
20th - Get The Blessing at Vortex 8.45pm
20th - West End Jam at Ronnie's (Ronnie Scott's Bar) @10.30pm

21st - Joe Stilgoe at Octave 9pm
21st - West End Jam at Ronnie's (Ronnie Scott's Bar) @10.30pm

22nd - Tyler Rix at Vortex
22nd - Jeff Neve Trio at Pizza Express Jazz Club 8.30pm
22nd- West End Jam at Ronnie's (Ronnie Scott's Bar) @10.30pm

23rd - Chick Corea & John McLaughlin Five Peace Band with Christian McBride, Kenny Garrett & Vinnie Colaiuta 7.30pm
23rd - Andy Sheppard featuring Nguen Le - Melody Gainsborough at Southbank Centre/Purcell Room 7:45pm

The Barbican Ronnie Scotts Jazz Cafe Pizza Express Jazz Club Southbank Centre Vortex Spice Of Life Kings Place Ray's Jazz @Foyles Octave

Look out for Blues and Soul reviews from the 'Jazz Voice' opening night at the Barbican, Bill Frisell at the Barbican and David McAlmont at the Jazz cafe.

HAVE A GREAT FESTIVAL!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

BEYONCE ON NEW ALBUM

Beyonce has confirmed that she will release her new album in the US on 18 Nov, in a message to fans published on her MySpace page.

She said: "I want to talk to my fans about my upcoming album. I have worked on this album for close to one year. I have taken the time so I can create my sound, something that says who I am at this stage in my life. I have poured my heart and soul into it. It is my baby. It is the most time I have spent on any project since my first records as a member of Destiny's Child when I was 15 years old.

She added "I have recorded over 70 songs and have created a sound that reveals all of me. I am in a different place right now and I wanted people to see the many sides of me. The music is upbeat for the dance, fun side and it is reflective, passionate and serious for the personal side. I have taken risks here. I am not afraid and my music will explain it all. There is no label or tag on my sound. It's me and I am so excited to share it with the world on 18 Nov".

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KANYE'S JUST TOO HOT FOR TV

A new improvised comedy show fronted by Kanye West has been deemed 'too hardcore' by execs at US TV station HBO. Bosses at the company were left shocked at the pilot episode of the programme, which is influenced by HBO's 'Curb Your Enthusiasm'.

Director Larry Charles said: "HBO doesn't have a good track record when it comes to black shows, and I felt like that may have had something to do with it also. People gave it a very good response, and it seems to be on the shelf right now. The management has shifted at HBO so we're waiting to see".

Of Kanye, Charles said: "He's so much funnier than people realise. Even the whole being-full-of-himself stuff is a joke to him, and he likes to play that of being like, you know, Kanye. And he's kind of a brilliant guy actually".

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NATALIE COLE OUT OF HOSPITAL

Natalie Cole who, as previously reported, was recently hospitalised as a result of illness brought on by hepatitis C, the liver disease which she discovered she was suffering from during a routine health check earlier this year.

Cole had been in hospital since 12 Sep for treatment, but was released from the facility last week and is now, according to her spokeswoman, "feeling a lot better".

The spokeswomen also revealed Cole had been receiving kidney dialysis while in hospital, though that is not related to the hepatitis. She couldn't comment on if and when Cole would return to the stage to promote new album 'Still Unforgettable'.

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JANET JACKSON CANCELS FOURTH SHOW

Janet Jackson cancelled a fourth show this weekend as she recovers from that previously reported undisclosed illness.

This is the same illness that forced a gig in Montreal to be cancelled right at the last minute last week. Jackson's people won't comment on the singer's condition, except to say she is now "recuperating".

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JAZZ FM RETURNS

Jazz FM has returned to the airwaves, albeit not on FM. The jazz service has arrived on DAB digital radio in London, Glasgow, the North West, the West Midlands and South Wales.

The jazz station, which previously turned into the easy listening Smooth FM after broadcasting on analogue radio in both London and Manchester, is being brought back to life by Chairman Richard Wheatly, founder of The Local Radio Company, who has licensed the use of the name off its previous owners GMG Radio.

Richard Wheatly, said: We're delighted to be bringing back Jazz FM after its three year absence. I would like to thank Jazz fans around the world for their support. We're already looking beyond today to the release of our first CD in October and we'll soon be organising concerts for the legions of jazz fans in the UK and beyond. I hope you'll tune in!

To listen just click JAZZ FM

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HIP-HOP HORRAY! - LIL WAYNE'S WORKING ON NEW ALBUM

Lil Wayne has said in a post on his blog that he's already begun recording a new album, following the huge success of this year's 'Tha Carter III'. He's also set to release a new mix tape.

The rapper wrote: "I've been busy in the studio and right now I'm working on a mix tape, along with 'Tha Carter IV'. The mix tape you can expect real soon. It's called 'Dedication 3', and it's going to be 'Gangsta Grillz' by DJ Drama. And then right after that, I'm putting that same mix tape out with 20 extra songs for free on my website".

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KELLY ASKS COURT TO HELP HIM GET DOUBLE UP PAYMENTS

R Kelly has asked an LA judge for help in collecting $3.4 million which he reckons he is owed by the promoter of his Double Up tour from late last year.

Kelly's pay dispute with promoters Rowe Entertainment, and its owner Leonard Rowe, began even before the tour had been completed.

Last month an arbitrator in the dispute between the singer and the promoter ruled that Kelly was owed $3.4 million, but Rowe are yet to pay and reportedly continue to dispute the monies owed, despite not issuing a formal defence during arbitration. Kelly is looking for the LA courts to confirm the $3.4 million settlement and to help him get the cash out of Rowe.

The R Kelly tour has been nothing but a disaster for Rowe. Ne-Yo, who was initially the support act on the tour but was dropped after just two shows, won a $700,000 judgement against the promoter, while investors in the show have alleged they have been misled about the venture's finances and lost out as a result, and they are now taking legal action on the matter.

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ALESHA DIXON'S BACK WITH 'THE BOY DOES NOTHING'

We are priviaged to have a few sneeky shots from the new Alesha Dixon video for the new single 'The Boy Does Nothing' taken from new album, The Alesha Show. As you can see the strictly star is in hot form... Role on the tune...

The video for â��˜The Boy Does Nothing' was directed by Michael Gracey, Baz Luhrmann co-hort, and Art Director of Moulin Rouge. Alesha describes the song as bottled happiness.... She obviously hasn't been to my local then.

'The Boy does Nothing' is released as a download on 2nd November and on CD on Monday 10th November on Asylum Records. 'The Alesha Show' comes out on November 17th.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website