Blues and Soul News

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

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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?;)

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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!?;)

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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.

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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

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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.

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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')

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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.

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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.
Â�

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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!

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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

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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.

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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

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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!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

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

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

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

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

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

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

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".

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

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

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

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.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

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".

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

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".

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

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'.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

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".

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

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

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

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".

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

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.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

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

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVOURITE MOTOWN TRACK

With our endless love for Motown coupled with Motowns 50th birthday, Universal Music are inviting the public to vote for their favourite Motown tracks. The album will be compiled purely from the top 50 tracks chosen by fans and available on Dec 1...

Universal Motown are embracing the net to create this unique compilation album by partnering with Poll The People, the global online polling community - to launch the GREATEST MOTOWN SONGS poll. It will run for 4 weeks from Monday 15th September to determine the ultimate Motown Top 50.

People can select their Top 5 Motown songs from the database and their votes are entered into the poll. They will also be connected to other members of the community who match some or all of their Top 5 choices so they can meet like minded people and discover new gems from the legendary Motown catalogue.

Celebrities will be invited to submit their Top 5 Motown Songs which will also count towards the final tally of votes as well as helping to introduce a broad audience across all age groups to the Motown label.

Whether its the iconic 'I Want You Back' from the most famous brothers in the world the Jackson 5, the song that melts every girls heart 'My Girl' from the Temptations or the unmistakeable vocals of Marvin Gaye on 'Lets Get It On' the public will decide on their favourite 50 to mark the anniversary of arguably the most influential record label ever.

Vote now at www.pollthepeople.com/motown50

Don't forget SHARON DAVIS' MOTOWN TRACKING COLUMN is back in NOVEMBER.... Tell Sharon what your favourite track is and why sharon@bluesandsoul.com

The Video is Marvin at the Grammys in 1983... The song is 'Sexual Healing'... Am I giving a small clue where my vote is going?... Probably;)

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

O2 TO HOST NEW ORLEANS JAZZ FESTIVAL ON OCT 24TH & 25TH....... and it's Free!!!

The O2 is to host a festival celebrating the music and culture of New Orleans next month. The event, named Festival New Orleans, will coincide with the New Orleans Saints' official NFL game against the San Diego Chargers at Wembley...

The Festival will feature performances from the likes of Dr John, Allen Toussaint, Buckwheat Zydeco, BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet and New Orleans Mardi Gras Indian Rhythm Section.

Lieutenant Governor of Louisiana Mitch Landrieu says of the festival: "We learned from our research that potential visitors to Louisiana, especially our international friends, wanted more information about what there is to see and do in the state and they especially want to know what Louisiana locals do for fun. We listened and we are bringing Louisiana's unique culture to London with the largest showcase of Louisiana sports, food, music and arts ever seen outside of the borders of the United States."

The free event takes place on 24 and 25 Oct.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

MARIAH FIRES HER MANAGER

Mariah Carey has reportedly fired her manager Benny Medina after discovering that he was attempting to re-sign his former client, and Carey's arch enemy, Jennifer Lopez.

The New York Post reports that Medina got the boot on Friday, but he denies this, saying: "I just had lunch with Mariah today. We're restructuring her company and streamlining it. That's all".

However, if the rumours are true, things won't be looking good for Medina, who has already lost Tyra Banks and Usher from his books this year (Poor guy!?)

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

CLUB PROMOTER COMPLAINS ABOUT TOPLESS DJ

Club promoters Class Concept International have complained that a Russian topless DJ they booked faked her DJing with a pre-prepared mix CD when she, er, performed at one of their clubnights in Spain recently.

Class Concept told Mixmag that DJ Mari Ferrari had played "from already pre-mixed music sessions from one or two CDs and was faking the movements. She wasn't really doing it for real, just acting". They also claim that her DJing skills were being closely observed by six people in the DJ booth and a cameraman for Fashion TV.

The Russian DJ agency, Girl DJs, told the magazine that this was "a false testimony".

Do people really book topless DJs for their mixing skills? ... Course they do!?

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

THE ORCHARD GAIN ACCESS TO JAZZ CLASSICS

Independent digital aggregator The Orchard has announced a licensing deal with MusicMasters.

The label is owned by the Musical Heritage Society and which owns all kinds of jazz classics from the likes of Louis Armstrong and Benny Goodman, some dating back to the 30s, and many of which haven't been proactively distributed for a while.

The deal means Orchard will distribute the catalogue digitally. The Musical Heritage Society's Jeff Nissim told reporters: "Reviving the MusicMasters label has long been a hope of mine".

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

HMV ANNOUNCE (IPOD COMPATIBLE) MP3 STORE

HMV has announced it will launch its MP3 store later this month, meaning the high street reseller will start selling music online in the DRM-free, iPod compatible format rather than the almost useless WMA format.

As previously reported, 7Digital are expected to announce they now have music from all four major record companies available via their MP3 download service later this month - just 9 months after the last of the majors confirmed it would start making its content available without digital rights management technology embedded. Speedy.

HMV announced its digital plans in a trading update to precede its Annual General Meeting. They also announced sales growth of 4.3% in the UK and Ireland, and 2% globally, though that was primarily through the sale of games and technology rather than music or even DVDs. They also confirmed another of their 'next generation' stores would open this week, in Liverpool, their biggest new look store to date.

Chief Executive Simon Fox said this: "In what is, undoubtedly, a tough consumer environment, the solid start made by the group to the new financial year means that our plans are in line with the board's expectations, and I remain confident that our strategic initiatives are on track. As we approach the peak selling period, our focus is on continuing to provide our customers with the very best offers, from what is shaping up to be a strong line-up across all product categories for Christmas".

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GROOVERIDER released from Prison after 9 months

Grooverider has been released from prison in Dubai by President Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan as part of Ramadan celebrations in the country.

As previously reported, the DJ and former Radio 1 presenter was arrested at Dubai International Airport in November last year for possession of 2.16 grams of cannabis and jailed for four years.

However, his release was granted earlier this week as one of the 700 pardons granted each year during the Muslim festival of Ramadan.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

NEW STUDY FINDS LINKS BETWEEN PERSONALITY AND MUSIC TASTE

A new study of more than 36,000 people by Heriot-Watt University has found that musical tastes and personality traits are very closely linked.

Amongst the findings, it was discovered that both heavy metal and classical music fans tend to be gentle and at ease with themselves.

Professor Adrian North, who conducted the research, told the BBC: "We have always suspected a link between music taste and personality. This is the first time that we've been able to look at it in real detail. No-one has ever done this on this scale before".

Here's what your taste says about you:

Blues: High self-esteem, creative, outgoing, gentle and at ease.
Jazz: High self-esteem, creative, outgoing and at ease.
Rap: High self-esteem, outgoing.
Dance: Creative, outgoing, not gentle.
Soul: High self-esteem, creative, outgoing, gentle, at ease.
Reggae:High self-esteem, creative, not hardworking, outgoing, gentle and at ease.

There is still time to take part in the study. Just fill out the questionnaire at http://www.peopleintomusic.com/

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AKON THROWS FANS OFF STAGE .... AGAIN!

Akon has been caught on camera throwing two fans off stage at a gig in Guayana, South America, punching one of them first, just days before finding he would stand trial for a similar incident last year.

As previously reported, the RnB singer previously pleaded not guilty to charges of endangering the welfare of a minor and second-degree harassment in relation to that earlier incident. It is alledged that Akon got security guards to pick 15 year old Anthony Smith out of the audience after he allegedly threw something at the R&B star during a gig in June last year. A kon then manhandled Smith and ultimately threw him back into the crowd.

That event was caught on camera, as was this new one on 30 Aug in South America. The video shows Akon dive into the crowd and attempt to crowd surf to a podium further out into the audience. When he eventually reaches it he finds two women dancing there. They appear very excited and try to grab hold of him, at which point he appears to punch one of them in the head. The video ends there, but it's thought he may then pushed the dancing women off the podium.

The singer will stand trial for the original incident on 1 Dec unless he can reach an out-of-court settlement with Smith and his family.

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NO GIGS STATESIDE FOR EDDY GRANT AFTER VISA PROBLEMS

Eddy Grant has been forced to cancel his upcoming gigs in the US...

His backing band were unable to obtain visas to enter the country in time. However, he says that the gigs will be rescheduled for next year.

Grant told WENN: "The band are waiting for their visas. It has just taken longer than everybody imagined. They are all sitting in Johannesburg waiting for the visas. We are hoping they will turn up next week or so. We kept putting the shows back and postponing and postponing and in the end it didn't make sense. So we have cancelled the shows and will put them back in for next year".

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JACKO HAS NO IDEA

Michael Jackson explained why he hasn't recorded anything new in a while... Just to clear things up, Michael Jackson's career is not in crisis. He simply took some time out to watch his kids grow up.

Jackson told US TV show Good Morning, America: "I am writing all the time. I love composing and the whole thing. But I am also raising my children and enjoying it and teaching them to ride bicycles and how to read. I love it. [We] go to the arcade and go to the movies and do things. I want them to get to do the kind of things I didn't get to do. So, I fill them with a lot of enjoyment that way - a lot of amusement. You know?"

However, he refused to ask questions about when he would be back with a new album, simply saying: "I have always loved showbusiness and have always enjoyed making people happy through that medium. I love the celebration of music and dance and art. I just love it".

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Sneakers 54 Presents DISCO, BOOGIE, SOUL & FUNK @CORKS THIS SATURDAY 13TH SEP

Good nights these days are few and far between (lee: speak for yourself) so I feel I should give you the heads-up to a big monthly happening at the so-solid, ever dependable Corks Bar in Binney St W1 (formally and affectionately Corks 'Wine' Bar, back in the day)...

This night has SOUL, FUNK, DISCO (of course), BOOGIE and with a touch of Classic JAZZ FUNK thrown in for good measure. If you make an extra effort and dress up in 70's threads then your reward will be a discount at the door - Just go as you are then Lee! Anyway... Go and have a great time and tell'em we sent ya!... (Right, where are my platforms?!).

DETAILS:

Saturday 13th September 2008
From 7pm till 1am (2 for 1 drinks till 9pm) *

Corks Bar, 28 Binney St, London W1
(nearest tube Bond St )
www.corkswinebar.co.uk
Tickets Â�6 in advance or
Â�10 @ door (Â�8 if in 70's gear)

Pay in advance with paypal : use koal_bee@hotmail.com
Please list ticket holders names on paypal confirmation

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NE-YO WINS $700,000 AWARD IN R-KELLY TOUR LAWSUIT

Georgia-based concert promoter Rowe Entertainment Inc has been ordered to pay Ne-Yo and his touring company $700,320 by a Los Angeles Superior Court judge.

This relates to that much reported lawsuit filed by the singer after he was dropped from R Kelly's last tour after just two shows. He claimed he was dropped because he was upstaging Kelly, something which has always been denied by Kelly, his people and Rowe Inc. Kelly was not named as a defendant on the lawsuit.

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Icon Diva - BEYONCE WANTS TO BE AN ICON

Beyonce is bored of being a pop star. Pop stars are so yesterday. Now she wants to be an icon and live forever.

She told Marie Claire: "There is a time limit on being a pop star, yes. Being a legend, an icon? Absolutely not. I'm over being a pop star. I don't wanna be a hot girl - I wanna be iconic".

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DIZZEE RASCAL UK TOUR ANNOUNCEMENT

Dizzee Rascal will tour the UK in November. Dates are likely to sell out fast, following the success of his recent single 'Dance Wiv Me'. So what you waiting for...

Tour dates:

01 Nov: Sheffield, Plug
02 Nov: Liverpool, University
15 Nov: Glasgow, ABC
17 Nov: Norwich, UEA
18 Nov: Southampton, Guildhall
19 Nov: Leeds, Academy
20 Nov: Lincoln, Engine Shed
22 Nov: London, Forum

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New/ Old Leona Album Release

Leona Lewis' former label, UEG Music, are set to release an album she recorded for the label shortly before finding fame on 'The X Factor'.

UEG released two singles by Lewis in 2005 and the album had originally been mooted for release in 2006. However, when she won 'The X Factor', and was signed by Simon Cowell's Syco label, all contact between Lewis and her former label ended. They've been trying to release the album anyway ever since, but have had to cross a number of legal hurdles first. It seems the legal issues have been resolved.

A source told The People: "Leona made it before she was famous and didn't expect it to come back to haunt her like this. The album was finished in 2006 and due for release that year. Then Leona won 'X Factor' and all communications between her and UEG stopped. There were attempts to release the album throughout 2007. But they were blocked immediately after signing the record contract with her current label. But now they have won the right to release it."

Confirming the release was now pending, a statement on UEG's website says: "Leona Lewis has achieved some great success since winning the final of the 'X Factor' competition in 2006. Although she is now working with another record label, UEG had the pleasure of working with her over a number of years prior to her winning the contest, creating an album of material and releasing the debut singles 'Private Party', featuring Robert Allen, and 'Dip Down' in 2005. The singles were a great precursor to the release campaign for the album 'Best Kept Secret' which is [now] set for release in 2008".

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WINEHOUSE MAY HAVE TO FACE LEGAL ACTION OVER NO-SHOW

Amy Winehouse is facing a lawsuit from the organisers of a French festival, Rock En Seine, after shecancelled her performance at the last minute.

In a statement, a spokesperson for Winehouse said: "Amy Winehouse was regrettably unable to perform at the Rock En Seine show in Paris, on Friday August 29, due to illness. She was taken ill at her house and wasn't able to travel to France for the concert".

However, the organisers say that they were not given an adequate reason for the cancellation and will now take legal action against the singer. A statement posted on the festival's website on Friday evening says: "Amy Winehouse cancelled at the last minute her headlining performance which was due to bring to a close the sixth edition of the Rock En Seine festival. Everything seemed to suggest that her show would go ahead - The stage set for her show had been set up by her technicians the night before. Her band arrived in Paris on Thursday - We were informed at 8pm [on Friday] by her agent, who was already present, that she would not be coming. So far we have not been given any explanation regarding the real reasons for her absence. Following this cancellation, the festival has decided to take legal action".

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50 YEARS OF MOTOWN... WELL ALMOST!

Our own Sharon Davis thought you may enjoy this look back at Motown through the years care of Utube.

It has some excellent content and takes you back to those golden days when the music did ALL the talking. Motown 50 and Blues and Soul 42 years old- kinda makes you proud doesn't it. Enjoy the video... We did:)

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

TINIE TEMPAH: 'Tears' The Video

B&S get's the heads up on the new TINIE TEMPAH VIDEO, The track is called Tears and is well worth checking out as it is blowing-up all over, so time to get on it...

19 year old Temph shows what time is on this track with a Davinci Bassline that is deffinantly doing it, in turn making this tune easily stand out from the rest. Featuring fellow UK talent Cleo Sol ensuring a surefire urban winner. Track out on the 15th of September.

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Natty Headlining Tour Details

Good news!... Natty is touring - And this time he is headlining. If you have caught Natty at a the festival this year, you'll agree this contender merits a crack at the title. Catch him now or next time you'll be paying silly prices...

His emergence from the underground scene to the rest of the world has been happily encapsulated with the release of debut single 'July' which attracted rave reviews across the board. This was shortly followed by his album 'Man Like I', the highest new entry that week on the chart.

Natty has attracted attention from all areas with his soulful edge,
indie style and reggae undertones making his music meaningful and accessible concurrently. The summer spirit to his debut has meant Natty appears at over 20 festivals this year including Glastonbury, Lovebox, Reading and Bestival, this flurry of live activity follows in the wake of high profile support slots with Adele and Kate Nash... This is without doubt his turn.

Natty's new single is 'Bedroom Eyes' is released on 6th October and is reviewed in B&S online in edition 1010. The album 'Man Like I' is out now.

Headline Tour Dates:

3rd October - Princess Pavillion, Falmouth Cornwall,
5th October - Faversham, Leeds,
6th October, Waterfront, Norwich,
8th October - Plug, Sheffield,
9th October - Rescue Room Nottingham,
11th October - King Tuts, Glasgow,
12th October - Academy 3, Manchester,
13th October - Glee Club, Birmingham,
15th October - Scala, London,
16th October - Concorde II, Brighton,
18th October - Thekla, Bristol,
19th October- Boss Sounds Festival, Newcastle

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

�20 Rise in GLASTONBURY 2009 TICKET PRICEs

Glastonbury has announced that tickets for next year's festival will cost Â�175, up from Â�155 this year.

You will be able to reserve one of the first 100,000 tickets for next year's event from 5 Oct for a deposit of Â�50, with those taking advantage paying the rest of the ticket price on 1 Apr (or given a Â�40 refund if they decide not to go ahead). Registration for people who want to buy tickets will open on 1 Sep on www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk.

Michael Eavis said: "We have come up with a scheme that will allow people a much longer period to plan and pay for their tickets, while still continuing the battle against ticket touting. At the same time the very successful registration scheme will ensure that tickets will only go to those named individuals who have reserved them in advance".

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SNOOP'S AUSTRALIAN VISA PROBS

Snoop Dogg will have to pass a character assessment test in order to gain an Australian visa before his planned tour of the country in October.

The rapper has visited the country twice, in 1998 and 2006, without incident, but was banned from the country in April 2007 when he failed a character test, following gun and drug charges in the US, and his ongoing immigration battle in the UK.

This ban was lifted last week, but the visa he applied for in July has been put on hold pending further assessment. If he is allowed in, he will have to adhere to a strict set of rules.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

DMX FREE AT LAST... REALLY?

DMX has been held in Florida since his arrest outside a Wal-Mart store in Miami, which occurred after he failed to appear at a court in Arizona.

The Florida court was concerned with drugs charges pressed in that state, to which the rapper pleaded guilty. He was sentenced to time served and a $483 fine and duly freed. Sort of...

Being freed in this case doesn't mean that DMX is back on the street. As there is still that outstanding warrant for him in Arizona, relating to the missed court date, he will now remain in jail in Florida for another fifteen days, while Arizona police decide whether or not they can be bothered to come and get him.

The rapper had asked to be bailed but was refused, and had his next hearing set for 3 Oct. As he was led away he muttered something that may have been "I ain't going back to no fucking jail" or "I ain't coming back on fucking October third", depending on which reports you believe.

Either way, Judge Lawrence Schwartz heard him and responded sarcastically: "Oh, that just ingratiated you to me - I've never heard the F-word before". He then turned to DMX's lawyer Bradford Cohen and said: "You need to tell your client that I've heard the F-word before. ... He can send it to me anytime he wants to come in, if that's what makes him happy, but he certainly didn't help his stature any with what he mumbled as he left the podium".

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R Kelly rebutts scam reports

R Kelly has denied reports that he was involved in a South African scam in which Busiswe Zakwe conned investors out of $1.5 million by getting them to put $1,300 each into a fake tour by the R&B star.

Kelly's comments come after the dodgy promoter implied her tour plans were legit and it was the R&B star's fault that it didn't go ahead.

Zakwe claims that she paid the money into Kelly's bank account and local police claim to have a bank deposit slip seemingly confirming this and are checking its authenticity.

In a statement, Kelly said: "There is absolutely no truth to the reports that R Kelly received money from a South African woman accused of swindling investors by convincing them to invest in a non-existent R Kelly tour in 2005. Mr Kelly has no knowledge of this woman, has never received any money from her, and has not been contacted by any law enforcement authorities regarding the matter. He will, of course, cooperate fully with any legitimate investigation of this matter, since he has nothing to hide".

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

SUGE KNIGHT In Jail

Former Deathrow chief Suge Knight is in jail after being arrested on drug and assault charges after allegedly beating up his girlfriend while brandishing a knife.

Knight was arrested in Las Vegas yesterday after police responded to reports of a car hitting a curb in the city, and apparently found the former hip hop mogul standing over his longtime girlfriend with a knife in his hand.

Police claim the girlfriend tried to flee her hip hop other half, but that he grabbed her. The drug charges stemmed from him allegedly being in possession of ecstasy and hydrocodone at the time of his arrest. Knight's lawyers have so far declined to comment on their client's latest brush with the law.

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DEATH ROW SALE PUT ON HOLD

The sale of Death Row Records has been put on hold after its new owners, Global Music Group, failed to provide $22 million of the $24 million fee they pledged to pay for the company.

As previously reported, Global saw off bids from the likes of Warner Music to pick up the legendary hip hop label, which was on the market after the high profile bankruptcy of Deathrow's principle owner Suge Knight back in 2006.

Despite the sale being put on hold, Global Music's lawyer, Kathleen March, says it is a temporary problem and that Global's acquisition of Deathrow will be completed. She blamed the delay on recent press reports that her client had made the purchase illegally. She said that the sale would be closed in the next few weeks, with help from another unnamed company.

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B&S announce the Gold Soul Essex Soul Weekender 5-7 Sept

See BARBARA ROY (the voice of Ecstacy, Passion and Pain and BARBARA and Brenda) with full LIVE Band plus PA's from ANGELA LEWIS BROWN, GEROD HARRIS Plus HAYDON Plus alot, lot more at Gold Souls' not to be missed Essex Soul Weekender...

Barbara Roy is a Diva in the truest sense of the word with gutsy soulfulness in abundance, her vocals produced numerous hits during the 70's - As Barbara & Brenda they recorded several hit singles including 'Hurting Inside', 'Special Kind Of Love', and 'One More Chance'.

In the Mid 70's as Ecstasy Passion & Pain the hits included 'If I'm Hurt You'll Feel the Pain', 'Never Love A Robin', 'Don't Wait Up For Me Mama', 'Ask Me', 'Touch & Go', 'I wouldn't Give You Up' and Good Things Don't Last Forever'

And in the 80's becoming known as 'Barbara Roy' & Ecstasy, Passion & Pain releasing the hit song 'If You Want Me' to huge critical acclaim. Once again, audiences here in the U.K can enjoy the sound that is Barbara Roy.

To add to this great event there will be 2 Great dance floors featuring the cream of Modern Soul, Tent Anthems and a touch of Soulful Garage and the very best in Northern Soul.

DJ's this weekend include; ANDY DAVIES, TERRY JONES, GARY DENNIS, SIMON WHITE, SHAUN ROBBINS, STEVE WOOMBLE, MICK H, JAMES TROUBLE, PHIL KINGSWOOD, NEIL JONES, DEREK MEAD, ANDY JACKSON, COLIN CURTIS, RALPH TEE, NIGE BROWN, KENNY BURRELL, ANTON LUDWIG, SEAN CHAPMAN, KEV ROBERTS in 2 rooms plus the ESSEX SEAGULL PUB FOR CHILL-OUT GROOVES (Phew!)... Well done Kev!!

Getting to this new weekender on the Essex 'Sunshine Coast' is straight forward, just head for the Seawick Holiday Park, Beach Rd, St. Osyth nr. Clacton-on-Sea, Essex just off the A133 Sat nav; CO16 8SG Approx 1 hour London, 30 minutes; Colchester.

To book by phone 0845-815-9797

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DR DRE'S SON DIES

Dr Dre's Son, Andre Young Jr, was found dead at his Woodland Hills home on Saturday morning.

The twenty year old went out on Friday night, returning home at around 5.30am on Saturday morning. Reports state that he was then found unresponsive by his mother at around 10am, when she called the emergency services. The cause of death has not yet been confirmed but foul play is not suspected.

In a statement, Dre's spokesperson said: "Dr Dre is mourning the loss of his son Andre Young Jr. Please respect his family's grief and privacy at this time".

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HMV Gets Closer To iTUNES

HMV has pioneered a revolutionary new tool for all users of iTunes to help build their music and film collections on their new social discovery site getcloser.com.

The site's unique â��˜gap analyser' function has been built to make a collector's life a whole lot easier. People can now import their iTunes over easily and discover the music and film essentials that are missing from their iTunes collection.

From enhancing collections with new B-sides, remixes, or Directors cuts, the â��˜gap analyser' tool uses HMV's exhaustive archive of music and film releases to highlight gaps. Getcloser.com has been developed specifically for the collector and features an array of tools and trivia and allows people to come together to share their passions, interests and knowledge with like-minded people.

People are able to discover, rate, recommend, share and enjoy everything from new artists and music to their favourite cult movies and film experiences.

Another unique feature of the site is the ability to share music and film â��˜connections' where users are encouraged to input interesting facts on their favourite bands, albums, films, actors and more to form a web of trivia around each one.

With the full support and involvement of HMV's record label and film studio partnerships, getcloser.com will boast a wealth of rich content, including exclusive live footage of artist performances hosted by HMV stores. Over time, the site will be enriched by content created and uploaded by users themselves.

Apple and HMV already have a strong trading relationship, with iPods, iPod accessories and iTunes Gift Cards available in all HMV stores. Getcloser.com is currently in open beta With a full site launch due this Autumn.

Website Address: www.getcloser.com

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Video game face off for BOW WOW AND THE GAME

Bow Wow has challenged The Game to a $100,000 one-on-one challenge on American football videogame, 'Madden NFL'...

This comes after The Game claimed on gaming website konsolekingz.com that he's "number one in Madden, in the world. Bow Wow said "To be a 'konsole king' you gotta look like me".

Bow Wow subsequently issued his challenge, saying: "I've seen you do your thing in Madden. But I wanna let you know I will bust your ass in that Madden. We can get it poppin, on $100,000 dollars. The winner can take the money and donate it to charity. Live on YouTube. We're all family. $100,000 ain't shit to you, let's do it! Soulja Boy's my lil homie, but I beat the s**t outta that n****a in Madden".

You might think this is all posturing, but The Game has actually accepted the challenge. 'Versus: The Celebrity Game Battle, Bow Wow vs. The Game' will be Konsole Kingz's first celebrity playoff and will take place in New York next week.

The website's CEO, CJ Peters, told AllHipHop: "Konsole Kingz has covered hip hop gaming for over three years. The Game-Bow Wow challenge has shown the world the power and popularity of gaming in the Hip-Hop community. Our goal is to work with our partners and bring the fans of Hip-Hop a fresh new look at their favorite artists".

The video -The Game Feat. Kanye West: 'Wouldn't Get Far'...Hey, you never know;)

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JACKSON FIVE CANCEL REUNION

The Jackson Five were due to reunite next month at the BMI Urban Awards in LA, where they are due to receive a lifetime achievement award.

However, Jermaine, Tito, Marlon and Jackie have reportedly refused to share the stage with their brother Michael because he owes them $840,000 in unpaid royalties.

It's rumoured that this row has been ongoing for some time now, and that the brothers haven't had any direct contact since 2005.

Video: 'I Want You Back'... I'm sure you do really.

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Legendary producer Jerry Wexler dies age 91

Legendary producer Jerry Wexler, who helped shape the rhythm and blues sound, and gave the genre its name, has died at home in Florida on Friday, aged 91. He had been suffering with congenital heart disease for two years.

Wexler worked with numerous great artists in his career, including Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, Otis Redding and The Rolling Stones. The horn section on Wilson Pickett's 'In The Midnight Hour', was apparently inspired by Wexler's rhythmless dancing.

His first job in the music industry was as a writer for Billboard in the 1940s. It was there he coined the term 'rhythm and blues' for the magazine's charts, replacing the term, 'race records' that had been used until that point. While working at Billboard, he met Ahmet Ertegun, founder of Atlantic Records. The pair became lifelong friends and when, in 1953, Ertegun's business partner left the company to join the army, Wexler stepped in as the label's co-director.

In 1987, Wexler was added to the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. He said at the time: "No one really knew how to make a record when I started. You simply went into the studio, turned on the mike and said, 'Play'".

Video is Wilson Picket's 'Midnight Hour'. Inspired by Wexler...

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LEONA LEWIS set to perform in OLYMPICS closing ceremony

Leona Lewis and Jimmy Page are reportedly set to perform together as part of the closing ceremony for this year's Olympics.

David Beckham will apparently also appear on a London bus to signal the handover to the next Olympics in 2012... And Reg Varney will be driving it -that was a joke by the way!:)

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LIL' WAYNE Denies Daughter's death rumors

Lil' Wayne has confirmed that his daughter is safe and well, following rumours that she had been killed in a car crash...

This prompted great swathes of sympathy messages on the rapper's MySpace page and across the internet.

In a statement, Lil' Wayne said: "It has come to my attention that there are recent reports circulating regarding my daughter. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you who are genuinely concerned about Reginae and her safety. Please allow me to dispel any rumors or speculations and report that my daughter is alive, healthy and surrounded by family who care and love her dearly. The rumors are completely false and unfounded; neither Reginae nor any other member of my family has been involved in any car accident. My family and I truly appreciate the concern and support shown to us".

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

B&S Pay Tribute to isaac Hayes on the BBC

B&S' Pete Lewis was invited to say a few words on the death of Soul Legend Isaac Hayes who sadly passed away this week.

Here is the clip for those of you that might have missed it...

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Lizzy Parks Raise The Roof (Tru Thoughts)

This 7-inch single is produced by Ben Lamdin, the man behind the incredible â��˜Nostalgia 77', so we're already off to a great start, and it's every bit as good as anything he's ever put his production hand to before.

Lizzy Parks is singing beautifully on this work of art, and it IS a work of art - with it's dense, panoramic and majestic soundscape. The track is a teaser though: it starts with a long build without the groove and all of a sudden it all kicks in, and I'm thinking, Great, a potential all-time classic here, and all of a sudden it drops back down to atmospherics again (the little tease) and all thoughts of it filling floors throughout the left-field world are over. Does it matter? It was intended to be this way and, ok, it's not a dance track after all but, my goodness, it's an epic piece of work.

They continue to rub your commercial nose in it on the b-side where it continues on shifting the moods once again in Lamdin's off-kilter fashion. It's an unusual choice for a 7 inch release I suppose, but if I'm judging this on musical quality rather than danceability then it's got to be an almost perfect 9 out of 10!

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

ISAAC HAYES DIES, AGED 65

Singer Isaac Hayes was found dead at his home in Memphis yesterday. He was discovered by his wife lying next to a still-running treadmill in their basement. A Shelby County Sheriff's deputy performed CPR, but Hayes was pronounced dead an hour later. It appears he had suffered a stroke according to documents filed by the singer's family doctor.

Hayes, a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame had a long and varied career. He was born in 1942 in a tin shack in Covington, Tennessee, about 40 miles north of Memphis. He was raised by his maternal grandparents after his mother died and his father took off when he was one. The family moved to Memphis when he was 6.

Hayes wanted to be a doctor, but got redirected when he won a talent contest in ninth grade by singing Nat King Cole's "Looking Back."

He held down various low-paying jobs, including shining shoes on the legendary Beale Street in Memphis. He also played gigs in rural Southern juke joints where at times he had to hit the floor because someone began shooting. A self-taught musician, he was hired in 1964 by Stax Records of Memphis as a backup pianist, working as a session musician for Otis Redding and others. He also played the saxophone. He began writing songs, establishing a songwriting partnership with David Porter, and in the 1960s they wrote such hits for Sam and Dave as "Hold On, I'm Coming" and "Soul Man.

"Isaac Hayes embodies everything that's soul music," Collin Stanback, an A&R executive at Stax, told The Associated Press on Sunday. "When you think of soul music you think of Isaac Hayes â�� the expression ... the sound and the creativity that goes along with it."

'Hot Buttered Soul' made Hayes a star in 1969. His shaven head, gold chains and sunglasses gave him a compelling visual image. 'Hot Buttered Soul' was groundbreaking in several ways: He sang in a "cool" style unlike the usual histrionics of big-time soul singers. He prefaced the song with "raps," and the numbers ran longer than three minutes with lush arrangements: One song, a cover of Glen Campbell's "By the Time I Get to Phoenix," ran 18 minutes.

In the early 1970s, Hayes laid the groundwork for disco, for what became known as urban-contemporary music and for romantic crooners like Barry White. And he was rapping long before there was rap. He once said "The rappers have gone in and created a lot of hit music based upon my influence." And they'll tell you if you ask."

He became known as a flamboyant rhythm and blues singer, and is still perhaps best know for his No1. 1971 hit, 'Theme From Shaft', the film starring Richard Roundtree. Which won him an Oscar for Best Original Song at the 1972 Academy Awards and was nominated for another one for the score. The song and score also won him two Grammys. "That was like the shot heard round the world," Hayes said in the 1999 interview. At the Oscar ceremony in 1972, Hayes performed the song wearing an eye-popping amount of gold and received a standing ovation. TV Guide later chose it as No.18 in its list of television's 25 most memorable moments.

In 1972, he won another Grammy for his album 'Black Moses' and earned a nickname he reluctantly embraced. Hayes composed film scores for 'Tough Guys' and 'Truck Turner' besides 'Shaft.'

However, four years after his Oscar success, a series financial problems at Stax led to him losing his home, personal possessions and rights to royalties from his music. Although he had a number of minor hits after this, he never again achieved the heights of his earlier career as a musician, and pursued a new career in acting.

In the 90s, Hayes reached a brand new audience as the voice of Chef in 'South Park'. This lead to his biggest hit since the 70s, Christmas novelty single, 'Chocolate Salty Balls'. In a 1999 interview, Hayes described the South Park cook as "a person that speaks his mind; he's sensitive enough to care for children; he's wise enough to not be put into the 'whack' category like everybody else in town - and he l-o-o-o-o-ves the ladies." He left 'South Park' in 2006 after an episode made fun of the Scientology movement, of which he was a member, saying "there is a time when satire ends and intolerance and bigotry towards religious beliefs of others begins". Co-creator creators Matt Stone responded that Hayes "has no problem - and he's cashed plenty of cheques - with our show making fun of Christians." A subsequent episode of the show seemingly killed off the Chef character. However, it was later reported that he left the show because he had suffered a stroke that same year.

He did the song 'Two Cool Guys' on the 'Beavis and Butt-Head Do America' movie soundtrack in 1996. Additionally, he was the voice of Nickelodeon's "Nick at Nite" and had radio shows in New York City (1996 to 2002) and then in Memphis.

He was in several movies, including 'It Could Happen to You' with Nicolas Cage, 'Ninth Street' with Martin Sheen, 'Reindeer Games' starring Ben Affleck and the blaxploitation parody 'I'm Gonna Git You, Sucka.'

The Rev. Al Sharpton called Hayes a "creative genius" and added, "even in his later years he never hesitated to appear for a cause or endorse something that he felt was for the good of mankind. He will be sorely missed."

Hayes remained active in entertainment, even as he became a senior citizen. His Web site listed upcoming appearances and he was making plans for his Stax album. Stanback said it was to include Hayes' work on vintage tracks that he had left unfinished over the years.

"Hayes offered something completely different to the musical world. In an era of straightened hair or Afros, Hayes was bald: "His look was just so profound, He was like a superhero! We were actually getting ready to schedule a trip to Memphis to talk to Isaac," he said."

Stanback called his death "a tragedy."

"Isaac Hayes was a wonderful human begin and his spirit will live long in the form of his music," he added.

Hayes had been due to spearhead a new campaign for the Memphis Heart Clinic, beginning this Friday. He had been married four times and had twelve children.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

The BBC Jazz Awards

The evening started with a bit of a network over drinks in the theatre bar at London's Mermaid Theatre and then away we went to the auditorium for the long-haul.

The evening proceeded with the often-awarded Guy Barker and his big band and he treated us to a jaw-dropping track from his latest CD. Very powerful indeed. Next, and on very early because they had to rush off for their concert at the O2 Arena, were the newly-reformed legendary 70's Jazz Fusion act â��˜Return To Forever'. The band (consisting of Chick Corea, Lenny White, Stanley Clarke and Al Di Meola) received their â��˜Life-Time Achievement' award and then proceeded to play their classic composition â��˜Romantic Warrior' which was breath-taking. And then the arse fell out of the evening.

For some reason, awards were presented by Goldie and Jazzie B (amongst others) and a very abrasive Nigel Kennedy, who insisted on swearing. He later redeemed himself with a spectacular performance. He really is a world class jazz soloist. As well as awards being given to the most obvious artists (from the clique), I was dumbfounded at bands such as The Blessing, Empirical and Fraud (never a more apt name). These Rock/ Punk/ Experimental (non) Jazz acts are surely â��˜the emporer's new clothes'? The evening finished with a â��˜Gold Award' rightly presented to Dame Cleo Laine and Sir Johnny Dankworth. Straight after that fiasco we were upstairs for more networking and post mortem until the early hours. The Jazz world is just so much bigger than what was represented tonight, and jazz will continue to spiral downwards until the organizers open their eyes to it all.

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Snow Boy on The UK's Blinkered So-Called Jazz Elite

My friend promotes a very famous Jazz venue in London and once (he told me) he was stopped by one of the UK's most famous and powerful Jazz Critics and asked...

Well, you don't seem to be booking much Jazz at your venue, to which my friend replied: I've got Nicola Conte on for three nights this week. Never heard of him the critic replied and the promoter said, He's on Blue Note Records and his latest CD has sold 80,000.

There are so many artists from the Jazz Dance world that get ignored by the â��˜legitimate' Jazz world, like Nicola from Italy, the Five Corners Quintet from Finland, the Jazz Invaders from Holland, Elizabeth Shepherd from Canada, and the list is endless. The first three bands mentioned all play â��˜Blue Note-style' Be Bop and Jazz Sambas but are playing to a younger audience.

These days, when Modern Jazz is supposedly in trouble I'm not surprised with the attitude and ignorance of the critic and many others. Instead, they grasp at straws by jumping on to new young experimental bands such as The Blessing (who are very Rock-orientated and play scant Jazz if any). I witnessed the poor state of our Jazz industry last Monday (July the 21st) at The BBC Jazz Awards.

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UK Jazz Dance

One thing I've always been proud about is the UK's Jazz Dance movement that started in the late-1970's. DJ's would play the heaviest Jazz Fusion, Be Bop and Afro Latin Jazz to the most heavyweight of dancers (and quite often dance battles would break out).

I've always tried to represent that scene and those dancers as a musician and as a DJ. I've written a book on it that comes out at the end of October; I've lectured on it at Yale University and for â��˜The Society Of Jazz Historians' at Regents College, London too, but I'm afraid that since my regular columns in the aforementioned magazines, this precious scene has virtually disappeared in the UK .My long-running club night â��˜The Hi Hat' had an undignified end last year after 13 years and so that leaves DJ Killer Jim's monthly session Sunday at Dogma, Byard Lane, Nottingham and Perry Louis' â��˜Shiftless Shuffle' at Freedom, 60-66 Wardour Street, London (also monthly Sunday sessions).

The once -massive scene is just down to two monthly sessions and it's heart-breaking. Both sessions feature the absolute cream of Jazz Dancers but the problem is that there are no new ones coming through in the UK, and there hasn't really in the last 10 years. The most significant amount was 20 years ago! â��˜Shiftless Shuffle' host - the incredible Jazz Dancer Perry Louis - runs a Jazz Dance troupe called â��˜Jazzcotech' and with them he tirelessly travels the world promoting our UK-style of Jazz Dancing called â��˜Fusion'. He's done so much for the awareness of the dancing and I intend to tell you what he's up to with â��˜Jazzcotech' here each month.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

MADONNA TOUR SETLIST REVEALED

The setlist for Madonna's upcoming 'Stick & Sweet' (eugh, that name still makes me shudder, even now) has been leaked, reports The Sun. The show will apparently be split into four parts, with video interludes separating each section. There will also be a 'Romanian folk interlude', which sounds like the most ill-advised thing ever.

The tour kicks off in Cardiff on 23 Aug. Here's the setlist:

Intro/Candy Shop
Beat Goes On
Human Nature
Vogue
Video Interlude
Into The Groove
Heartbeat
Borderline
She's Not Me
Music
Video Interlude
Devil Wouldn't Recognise You
Spanish Lesson
Miles Away
La Isla Bonita/Lela Pala Tute
Romanian folk interlude
You Must Love Me
Video Interlude
4 Minutes
Like A Prayer
Ray Of Light
Hung Up
Give It To Me

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MACEO PARKER Plays London

His name is synonymous with Funk Music, his pedigree impeccable; his band: the tightest little funk orchestra on earth.

Maceo Parker is known by aficionados as a James Brown sideman; appreciated mainly by those in the know. More than a decade and a half later Maceo Parker has been enjoying a blistering solo career. He navigates deftly between â��˜60's soul and â��˜70's freaky funk while exploring mellower jazz and the grooves of hip-hop.

Maceo's three releases 'Funk Overload,'('98) 'Dial M-A-C-E-O,'(2000) and Made by Maceo,(2003) entered the top 40 in the European charts upon release. He put out 'My First Name is Maceo,' in 2004. On his album 'School's In,' (2005) Maceo succeeds in creating as close to a live sound as is possible in a studio setting. His most recent release is critically acclaimed 'Roots & Grooves' (2007) with the WDR Big Band, on the Intuition Label.

At the beginning of 2007 Maceo had a chance to fulfill one of his dreams in working with Grammy winners the WDR Big Band, broadcasting and performing a live series of shows paying tribute to Ray Charles and putting Maceo's own funky music to a Big Band setting. The success of these shows is leading to talks about future projects, in the meantime Maceo with his own die-hard band continues to tour around the world.

Doors 7pm | Onstage 9pm

Â�20 Show Only | Â�55 Show and 3 Course Meal

Pigalle Reservation: 0800 988 5470 | 0207 494 4618.
After 6pm please call: 0207 734 8142
Buy Tickets at The Pigalle Club Foyer, 215 Piccadilly. 10am - 6pm, Mon - Fri.
Book Online from www.seetickets.com

VIDEO: To get you in the mood - just a taste of the Maceo magic...

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BLUES & SOUL ANNOUNCES: B&S LAUNCH PARTY - AUGUST 16TH

Blues and Soul are doing what they do best by bringing you the cream of talent, for their Blues and Soul Modern Soul night at Bar Monsta in Camden on August 16th...

The impressive DJ line up includes three true soul magicians:

The superb internationally renown TERRY JONES, hot from appearances which include Southport, Togetherness @ The Tower, Hilton Luxury SOUL and several other top weekenders.

GARY DENNIS, legendary Southport and the Luxury Soul Weekender DJ/owner of Crazy Beat records. He has played at every Caister from 1986 plus every Southport from 1989.

And if that wasn't enough... We have not taken no for an answer in persuading KENNY MAC to dust off his cross fader for the first time in TWENTY YEARS! Kenny who regularly came in the top 5 underground Dj,s in Blues and Soul Magazine polls, is coming back to Dj for a night of unforgettable modern soul.

These musical maestros will play modern Soul the only way they know how and join forces with Blues and soul the only way we know how!!

The tickets have been selling fast as news was leaked through fellow organisers True Soul (we know you can't help being as excited as we are. I can't keep secrets either!?), but you should be lucky enough to grab a ticket or two if you are speedy with your fingers... So what are you waiting for???

Ticket prices are Â�8 in advance and Â�10 on the door. Buy now to avoid disappointment.

See you there!!!

The night starts at 9pm and ends at 3.30am.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

THE NAMES KEYS... ALICIA KEYS

Alicia Keys has gained odds of 1/ 4 to go straight to number 1 with the new James Bond theme after it was revealed that Keys and Jack White (White Stripes) have recorded the movie's sound track.

The book was closed yesterday with Keys @ 5/1 to get the nod, following sustained gambles on Duffy and Amy Winehouse.

Ladbrokes spokesman, Nick Weinberg, said: Over 80 per cent of all bets were for Duffy or Amy Winehouse. The appointment has taken us by surprise. It'll be a huge shock if 'Another Way to Die' fails to top the charts.

LAST SHOW

Who will sing next Bond theme tune

Duffy evens
Amy Winehouse 4/1
Alicia Keys 5/1*
Beyonce 5/1
Rihanna 10/1
Leona Lewis 12/1
Estelle 16/1
Madonna 20/1
Spice Girls 50/1

LATEST BETTING

'Another Way to Die' to reach No1 in singles charts (according to Radio One) 1/4

I presume they had a few problems with rhyming words for 'Quantum of Solace':)

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DRE ANNOUNCES NEW ALBUM

Dr Dre has revealed that he will finally release his new album 'Detox' before the end of the year.

This will be his first album for nearly ten years, the last being 1999's 'Dr Dre 2001'. Speaking to USA Today, he said that it would include guest spots from rappers including Jay-Z, Lil Wayne and Nas and that "everybody is going to love it".

He said: "I'm just now, over the last couple months, starting to feel that it's going to be right and it's something I can be proud of, and everybody is going to love it. In a perfect world, I'm shooting for a November or December release".

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RONSON HOFF TO A BAD START

Mark Ronson has revealed that he recently turned down the opportunity to work with David Hasslehoff.

At the Coachella festival. Ronson said: "He came up and was like, 'Hey, I really love your stuff,' and I was just taken aback. He stayed and watched our show and said that he's got some new TV show and wanted me to produce a song with him. But I'm a bit busy right now!"... HMMM I bet you are!?;)

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ALICIA KEYS LOOKING FORWARD TO EARLY RETIREMENT

Alicia Keys says she might retire when she's thirty (lucky girl)...

"I am working hard now so I have the choice to retire when I want", she says. "I would like to travel the world and stay in places instead of having to move on like I do now. I want to experience difference cultures."

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WIN TICKETS TO SOLOMAN BURKE @BARBICAN ON THE 3RD OF JULY

Solomon Burke is truly one of popular music's larger-than-life figures whilst bringing a truly devine mix of Soul and Funk. And you can see him live at the Barbican on July 3rd...

An ordained minister, his 1960s recordings helped define what came to be known as Soul; his songs have been covered by artists from the Rolling Stones to Tom Petty, from the Blues Brothers to Bruce Springsteen. Almost six decades into a career that stretches back to his days as the â��˜Wonder Boy Preacher' his great voice is still one of the most compelling sounds in American music, and he has not stopped exploring fresh musical territory.

As one of the architects of Soul he helped lay the foundations for the development of Funk; "He is Solomon the resonator, the golden voice of heart, wisdom, soul, and experience. He's one of the architects of American music" - Tom Waits.

Support comes from the LA-based live funk combo Breakestra.

To win two tickets to see Soloman Burke on Thursday July 3rd at the Barbican. Please answer this question...

Soloman Burke is the playing on the last night of which event at the Barbican. Is it...

A) Creamfields
B) Glastonbury
C) Groove Nations

ANSWERS & ADDRESSES ALONG WITH PHONE NUMBERS PLEASE TO: competitions@bluesandsoul.com

AND don't forget 'Soloman Burke' in the subject box... Good luck!

Competition must end on Wednesday 2nd of July 2008

Below is a short video on the Groove Nations event at the Barbican. Have a look at what you've missed so far... Don't say we haven't given you plenty of notice for Soloman Burke:)

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

LIL WAYNE: A MILLION TO ONE

Rapper Lil Wayne's new album which is on course to sell one million copies in its first week- It had sold 630,000 on Friday so it seems as though it was definitely in with a chance.

It's doing pretty well, selling 423,000 copies on its first day. The last US album release to top more than a million in the first week was 50 Cent's 'The Massacre', which sold 1.1million copies.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

Stevie Wonder Announces European Tour 2008

London, Thursday 5th June, One of Soul music's most iconic stars, the legendary Stevie Wonder, announced at London's Hard Rock Caf� whilst performing an exclusive set, that he is hitting the road for the first time in more than a decade throughout Europe.

The tour kicks off on September 8th at the National Indoor Arena in
Birmingham, and culminates on September 28th at the Bercy in Paris. The tour is being produced by Live Nation and Tickets are available beginning on Friday 13th June at 9am.

His amazing career has earned him 49 top 40 singles, 32 number-one singles. He has received an astounding 25 Grammy Awards. An Academy Award for "I Just Called to Say I Love You," as well the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award plus Billboard's 2004 Century Award. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989, alongside the Rolling Stones. Stevie Wonder was the youngest honouree of the prestigious Kennedy Centre Honours. At the 22nd Kennedy Centre Honours in 1999.

It is Wonder's song writing legacy that has indelibly connected him to the world. From Motown prodigy to groundbreaking innovator, he has always believed in music as a transformational force.

After witnessing Stevie's set at the announcement- you are in for a real treat. Don't miss these special dates.

Stevie Wonder European Tour Dates September 2008

Mon 8 September Birmingham NIA
Tues 9 September Manchester MEN
Thurs 11 September London O2 Arena
Sun 14 September Rotterdam Ahoy Holland
Wed 17 September Aalborg Gigantium Denmark
Fri 19 September Stockholm Globe Sweden
Sat 20 September Hamar Vikingskipet Norway
Mon 22 September Cologne Arena Germany
Tues 23 September Mannheim Sap Arena Germany
Thurs 25 September Munich Olympiahalle Germany
Fri 26 September Milan Datchforum Italy
Sun 28 September Paris Bercy France

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WIN TICKETS TO THE JAMES BROWN TRIBUTE AT THE BARBICAN

Win tickets to a truly spectacular event at the Barbican on Saturday the 14th of June, where a veritable who's who of African music pay tribute to the one and only James Brown...

This African tribute to James Brown has been assembled by saxophonist Pee Wee Ellis who joined James Brown in 1965. Ellis, credited with the first pure hardcore Funk hit, Cold Sweat, has sometimes been called The Man Who Invented Funk. As well as continuing to set the standard for funk arranging and playing, he has contributed arrangements to Malian singer Oumou Sangare's album Worotan and Senegalese singer Cheikh Lo. He also worked on Ali Farka Toure's last album, Savane.

Still Black Still Proud features an extraordinary line-up of international funk talent, including trombonist and long time Brown sideman Fred Wesley, Vieux Farka Toure (son of Malian Blues legend Ali), Senegalese singer Cheikh Lo, Afrobeat drummer Tony Allen, South African vocal sensation Simphiwe Dana and Anglo-Nigerian renaissance woman Wunmi. Having reviewed many of these African stars recently on the superb 'Africa Celebrates' album, you are in for a real treat:)

Just answer the simple question...

Complete the title of this James Brown song:

'IT'S A MAN'S ...

A) WORLD
B) ISLAND
C) STREET

ANSWERS & ADDRESSES ALONG WITH PHONE NUMBERS PLEASE TO: competitions@bluesandsoul.com

AND don't forget 'JAMES BROWN' in the subject box... See you there!!

Competition must end on friday 13th June 2008

If you need a little help watch this video. If you don't need any help... I'd still watch the video;)

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QUINCY JONES BLAMES GOD FOR THRILLER

Quincy Jones says that the reason Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' was so good was because God made it, not him.

He told Interview magazine, "People kill me when they say, 'How do you sit down and plan to do an album like Thriller?' Give me a break. You have to let go and let God deal with things. As I get older, I realise, about music or whatever, how little we have to do with anything. You write the script and then God comes and rewrites it".

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USHER O2 DATE

One of the Worlds greatest performers, Usher, returns care of Sony Ericsson to perform for ONE night only at London's finest club, indigo O2arena Today Thursday 22nd May 2008.

This is the first opportunity to see Usher perform live in the UK since 2004. Accompanied by a full band, Usher will perform for an energy packed 80 minutes.

Usher will be showcasing tracks from his eagerly anticipated album 'Here I Stand' including the international smash 'Love In This Club' plus a selection of his classic hits.

If you couldn't get a ticket for this event then why not get down to the special album launch nights at the following venues...

22/5 Newz Bar, Liverpool & Dusk, Guildford & Lava & Ignite,Oxford

24/5 Superna, Leeds & 20/20 Bournemouth

25/5 Attic, Newcastle

27/5 The Place, Cheltenham

29/5 Liquid, Basildon

30/5 Winkers & Chalfont No.10, Cardiff

05/6 Life, Andover

06/6 Uba Rooms, Burton-On-Trent

07/6 Touch, Stoke

08/6 Liquid, Windsor

13/6 Brand, Southampton

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

SOUL TRAIN MUSIC AWARDS CANCELLED

The announcement that the Soul Train Music Awards, which celebrated the best of black music and entertainment in the US, will not happen this year.

Why the awards event, which has been celebrating black music for over two decades, will not take place in 2008 isn't entirely clear, though it had suffered in recent years when the US TV show it span off from - Soul Train - essentially stopped airing.

Many of the big stars up for awards - including Beyonce Knowles, Mary J Blige, John Legend and Gnarls Barkley - also failed to attend the Soul Train ceremony last year.

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AMY WINEHOUSE TO SET UP OWN LABEL

Amy Winehouse is rumoured to be planning to set up her own record label after her current deal with Universal's Island Records ends.

The singer reportedly owes the major one more album. The Sun claims that Amy plans to set up her own label with alleged new boyfriend Alex Haines (who she says isn't her new boyfriend - despite other rumours that she's asked for divorce from hubby Blake Fielder Civil and that he is demanding a Â�3 million divorce settlement).

An unnamed source said: "For the first time in her career, Amy is beginning to have her head turned by the cash she can make. It's never been a huge deal in the past, but she is beginning to realise everyone else is making all the money out of her success. Her deal with Island ends after the next record. That's why they are trying to get her to clean up first and make sure it's a classic. She's been planning it with Alex, who has a bit of music know-how from working as her manager's assistant".

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FREE GNARLS BARKLEY (BACKWARDS) DOWNLOAD

Gnarls Barkley have put their latest album, 'The Odd Couple', online as a free download, though it's a backwards version called, of course, 'elpuoC ddO ehT'.

If you give away your recordings backwards, does that mean whoever owns the publishing has to pay you? Anyway, go download it at this URL:

For your free Gnarls Berkley album download go to http://www.fronttobackbacktofront.com/">

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PRINCE TO PLAY FOR $4.8 MILLION

Prince will reportedly be paid $4.8 million for his headline per-formance at California's Coachella festival later this month.

Prince will headline the Saturday night of the event, which takes place in Indio, California between 25-27 Apr. He appears alongside other headlines including Kraftwerk. Good work for those that can get it.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

BILL COSBY TO PRODUCE A HIP HOP PROJECT (HONESTLY)

A Bill Cosby hip hop album is upcoming. This is a project designed to complement Cosby's 2007 book 'Come On People: On The Path From Victims To Victors.'

According to Billboard, it will "weave hip-hop, jazz, pop, funk and other genres around frank, positive messages drawn from Cosby's lyrics, stories and musical ideas".

There are plenty of collaborators involved, including Cosby's longtime musical collaborator Bill 'Spaceman' Patterson and his partner Ced-Gee, who is one quarter of the pioneering hip hop outfit Ultramagnetic MCs (along with one Kool Keith).

Other MCs involved in the project include SupaNova Slom, Jace The Great and Brother Hahz. Commenting on the album, which will be called 'Cosby Narratives Vol. 1: State of Emergency'.

Billboard quote Cosby rep David Brokaw as saying "[this is an] unflinching look at life in the 21st century but without the profanity,
misogyny, violence and braggadocio". The album is expected to be released in the coming month.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

TRICKY STARTS OWN LABEL

Tricky has teamed up with his former Island Records mentor Chris Blackwell to launch 'Brown Punk', a new music and entertainment label.

For starters the label is releasing 'Tricky Presents' featuring a brand new track from Tricky, alongside tracks by The Gospel featuring Kira, The Dirty and Laid Blak, the Brown Punk album is available to buy digitally from all online retailers.

I've been lucky enough to have some great influences and mentors in my music career and I want to be able to spend time with acts and introduce them to the industry, explained Tricky. Music today has become less about the artist and more about churning out hits. Brown Punk represents a positive movement where you find intellectuals mixing with the working class, rock mixing with reggae and indie mixing with emo.

On top of the album release Tricky will release 'Brown Punk: The Movie'. To celebrate the birth of Brown Punk, Tricky has directed an edgy, faux drama about the launch of the label which features many of the artists signed. The film will be released online and can be purchased in chapters (there are nine in total). The first two will be given away for free from late April, with the remaining 7 chapters costing Â�1.49 each. (That doesn't sound tricky at all!?:)

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

ALICIA KEYS HOLDS MYSPACE AUDITIONS

Alicia Keys is searching for a backing singer to join her band on her
forthcoming tour to promote her latest album 'As I Am'.

The singer is asking fans to submit a capella versions of her songs on video via MySpace. The video must be a minimum of 30 seconds long and applicants should be female, aged between 21 and 30, hold a valid passport, be physically fit, and able to dance. You'll need to be quick, too. The deadline for submissions is 5 May. For more details, go to http://www.aliciakeys.com/tourtheworld

'As I Am' was released last November and has so far sold over 5 million copies worldwide.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

UB40 ANNOUNCE NEW SINGERS

UB40 made an announcement, as expected, regarding a replace-ment for Ali Campbell, who announced he was quitting the group after three decades earlier this year.

And the new frontman is none other than Ali's brother Duncan. He will be one of two new singers with the band, the other being Maxi Priest, whose involvement in the band has been rumoured for a while. The implication seems to be that other vocalists may work with the band on both live and recording projects in the future.

Confirming his involvement, Duncan Campbell told sources: "I've long admired UB40 as a band and always had a great respect for what [his brothers] Robin and Ali have contributed to the band with Astro, Brian, Earl, Norman and Jimmy. UB40 are the biggest and most successful reggae band in the world, so I was absolutely delighted and a little stunned of course to be asked to come and work with the band. Of course it's a hugely daunting task to undertake and make sure that I do justice to the songs that I perform on. I'm not about to start jumping into Ali's shoes, he has made an incredible contribution to the band that nobody could ever replace with such a distinctive sound. I will of course be giving it my all and contributing my own style of vocals and performance, I hope I can do justice to their great songs and that the fans will like what they hear".

Maxi Priest added: "I am thrilled to be working with UB40 who I have always held in high regard as my brothers in reggae music. UB40 are one of the greatest bands in the world, to have lasted three decades is an amazing testament to their success. The collaboration with the band came about after I joined UB40 on their UK tour in December of last year, we got on stage and started jamming the Marley song 'I Shot The Sheriff' and it went down so well that the guys asked me if I would come into the studio and record it for the album. One thing led to another and in the session we came out with not one but two tracks including, 'Dance Until The Morning Light', which includes a sample loop from Desmond Dekker and the Aces' record 'Israelites'. We had a great time doing the recording and I can't wait to perform with them again".

We choose the video 'Kiss and Goodbye'... of course:)

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JACKSON PRIORITISING NEW ALBUM

Michael Jackson has reportedly put completing a new album at the top of his priority list, and is currently spending all his time in a Las Vegas recording studio in a bid to get new songs recorded.

He has reportedly banned his three children, Prince Michael, Prince Michael II and Paris, from coming to the studio in a bid to remove any distractions.

One of those sources told the New York Post: "Michael is producing the album himself and has banned his kids from the recording studio. He realises this is very important and doesn't want any distractions. He's not going to be involved in any personal relationships with women until he gets this record done".

Jackson has been reportedly working on new material for quite a while now, though previous chatter of upcoming comeback albums and tours have never come to fruition.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

WINEHOUSE AND LEWIS MAKE YOUNG MILLIONAIRES LIST

The Sunday Times has published its annual rich list this weekend and the likes of Amy Winehouse and Leona Lewis have joined the publication's list of the top one hundred richest young people (under thirty) in music.

Winehouse takes tenth place in the list with Â�10million, whilst Leona Lewis enters at fourteen with an estimated Â�6million. Also on the list are Corinne Bailey Rae, Natasha Bedingfield and Dhani Harrison, son of the late George Harrison, who tops the list due to the Â�160million inheritance he shares with mother Olivia.

The highest new entry was UK-born model Karen Elson, who
joins the list at number six thanks to her marriage to Jack White, and their joint fortune of Â�25million.

Other music celebs remaining on the list from previous years include Katie Melua, Joss Stone, Charlotte Church and Jamie Cullum.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

SNOOP DOGG GRANTED UK VISA

Good news for fans of hip hop and airport altercations. Snoop Dogg is allowed back into the UK.

As previously reported, he was banned from the country after a fracas at Heathrow Airport in 2006, a ban which led to the cancellation of UK dates on a co-headline Snoop/Diddy UK tour.

There have been various appeals in a bid to have the ban overturned, and now a UK judge, Neha Bird, has said the hip hopper should be allowed into the country, seemingly after watching video footage of the rapper quietly playing with children, then later being pushed to the ground by a police officer without retaliating.

The Home Office, who were behind the original visa ban, obviously, is now considering whether to take the case to the Court Of Appeal.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

THEY DO!

A village clerk in Scarsdale, a Northern suburb of New York, has reportedly told local media that Jay-Z and Beyonce have filed a marriage licence which, needless to say, is adding to speculation that the power couple of hip hop/R&B have, indeed, got married.

As previously reported, there were reports that the couple had obtained a licence at the start of the month, and then a lavish party took place at Jay-Z's Manhattan home on 4th of April, shortly after a minister was reportedly seen arriving at the hip hopper's property.

Despite all that, neither Jay nor Beyonce's people have officially commented one way or another on any wedding. However, the latest report is that the licence, signed by the person who officiated at the wedding, has now arrived with officials. If the couple are now married it isn't clear why they'd want to keep it secret after the fact - unless Jay is planning on announcing it while among his biggest fans and closest friends at Glastonbury later this year of course.

Click here to visit the official BluesandSoul.com website

DJ FROGGY... YOU WILL BE MISSED

Pioneering British club deejay DJ Froggy (real name Steven Howlett) has died of a brain haemorrhage aged 58. A successful DJ throughout the 70s, he picked up the theory behind mixing at various New York clubs in 1979 - whitnessing Larry Levan at the Paradise Garage and the residents at Studio 54.

Encountering the DJ Emperor Rosko, who had become famous via 1960s pirate radio, Froggy was stunned by the quality of the American's sound system. So Froggy upgraded his own and mastered cross fading, and went in search of Yorkshire-based Mat Mathias, who had designed the Rosko mixing console. Later Froggy and Mathias co-designed their own consoles.

In 1974 the then Radio 1 disc jockey Dave Lee Travis suggested a collaboration. From 1974 to 1978 their act, which Travis describes as verging on cabaret, toured throughout Britain. When Froggy quit, it was to focus on soul, disco and jazz-funk.

He accepted many club dates in the south of England and began a weekly residency at the Royalty, in Southgate, north London, from late 1978. He then DJ'd at one of Britain's first soul "all-dayers", the National Soul Festival in Purley. A year later he was DJ'ing at the first Caister soul weekender in Great Yarmouth, alongside a group of DJs - including Robbie Vincent, Chris Hill, Greg Edwards and Jeff Young - which comprised the Soul Mafia.

In the early 1980s, prior to electro and hip-hop, he was the country's pre-eminent technical DJ. His innovative use of mixing decks and tape recorders transformed the British club scene and paved the way for late 80s rave culture, seeing him DJ in front of more than 15,000 people at Knebworth.

He lived in the Ilford area for most of his life. Was Married three times, he is survived by two daughters and a son.

DJ Froggy (Steven Howlett), club DJ, born November 8 1949; died March 28 2008

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MN2S BIRTHDAY PARTY: 'THE END...' I SERIOUSLY DOUBT IT!

MN2S are celebrating 13 momentous years in the music industry.
helpping celebrate the lucky 13th Birthday Party and in the more than capable hands of Fedde Le Grand and Joey Negro. As if that doesn't guarantee the mother of all parties CJ Mackintosh, Brian Tappert, and The Jinks are sure to add the icing on the cake!

After he tore the roof off at the last MN2S party, an exclusive four hour set from Fedde Le Grand. Responsible for the club classic â��˜Put Your Hands Up For Detroit!', summer anthem â��˜The Creeps' this man can do no wrong. Fedde's most recent collaboration with Ida Corr â��˜Let me think about it' took no prisoners, storming straight into the charts at #2 and securing his status as one of the most recognized international DJs in the world.

Complementing Fedde's unquestionable ability to rock the dance floor is the master of disguise himself, Joey Negro. Leaving alter egos Z Factor, Raven Maize, and others tucked up in bed Joey works his usual tongue in cheek magic.

Amid this whirlwind of DJ royalty CJ Mackintosh, nominated â��˜Best Ibiza House DJ' fits in like a dream. CJ has released several mix albums including â��˜Ministry Of Sound Sessions' and â��˜Trust The DJ' winning him widespread acclaim. Miami's legendary Brian Tappert and MN2S residents The Jinks will be adding to the already rip-roaring line-up and keeping the MN2S pressure to a maximum. Join the guys at The End on Friday 25th April for what promises to be a truly memorable Birthday Bash!

When: Friday 25th April
Where: The End, London
Cost: Â�12 before 11:00pm / Â�12 in advance / Â�15 at the door
Info: mn2s.com
Who: Fedde Le Grand, Joey Negro, CJ Mackintosh, Brian Tappert, and The Jinks... & me;-)

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INCOGNITO: 'FREE' LIVE GIG AT FOPP ON MAY 6TH

A stripped-down Incognito line-up will perform an exclusive 20-minute set to mark the release in the UK of the new album 'Tales From the Beach'

The performance by Bluey, Francis, Matt and vocalists will take place at the well known London store 'Fopp' Covent Garden.

The appearance will take place in the downstairs area of the store. Capacity is restricted to around 125 people, and the store's admission policy will be 'first come, first served, FREE to all'.

Bluey and the band members will be signing copies of the new album after their performance.

CONTACT â˜Ÿ
'Fopp' Covent Garden...
1 Earlham Street,
London
WC2H 9LL
Tel:020 7845 9770... 6.00pm on Tuesday May 6... Don't forget to tell'em we sent ya!!

Clip of Incognito lve in Seoul 'Night's over Egypt'

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LUPE FIASCO REVEALS PLANS TO QUIT

US rapper Lupe Fiasco has told MTV that he's lost his passion for the music industry, and as a result his next album, the follow up to last year's 'The Cool', will most likely be his last.

Though he seems to be blaming the exhausting nature of a music career for his increasing disinterest in the whole thing, rather than any particular dislike for the industry and how it works.

Saying recent health problems, which stopped him from attending this year's Grammy Awards, were a result of him "running so hard doing music", he told MTV: "When I got to the pivotal moment where you get the accolades for it [ie his Grammy nominations], I found myself in the hospital and the doctor telling me I can't even go. I had a long conversation with the doctor, and he doesn't know me from Adam. He just came in and said, 'This is your life.

This is how hard you're going. What happens when there's nothing there, and you drop down again?'" Asked if his next album would definitely be his finale, he continued: "I don't want to say I'm 100 percent sure, like, 'Yeah, this is it'. But 85 percent. That 15 percent is the X factor [no, he doesn't mean the TV show]. That could be bills. Like, 'Lupe, you got to pay the bills'. 'Oh, man, I got
to put out another album'".

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SECRET GARDEN DATE FOR GRACE

Grace Jones has been confirmed as one of the headliners for this year's Secret Garden Party.

She tops a bill that includes the likes of Sons and Daughters, Glas-vegas, Infadels, Morcheeba and Eddy Temple-Morris.

Further acts, including two more headliners, are to be announced shortly. Tickets for the event, which takes place near Huntingdon from 24 - 27 Jul, are priced at Â�125.

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ALICIA KEYS ON GOVENMENT (GANGSTA RAP) CONSPIRACY

Alicia Keys has been voicing hip hop conspiracy theories in an interview with Blender magazine.

Alicia reckons that American government types meddled in the world of Hip Hop back in the eighties and nineties - in part creating so called 'Gangsta Rap' - in a bid to cause renewed tensions in the black community, to hinder said community's attempts to gain ground in mainstream American politics.

Those tensions, she says, led to the various Hip Hop rivalries that in turn left rappers Tupac Shakur and the Notorious BIG dead. Keys admitted that she has been reading several Black Panther auto-biographies in recent months, which have fed the conspiracy beliefs.

She told the magazine: "Gangsta rap was a ploy to convince black people to kill each other. Gangsta rap didn't exist. [It was created] by the government and the media, to stop another great black leader from existing".

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WINEHOUSE & RONSON WORK ON BOND SONG

Sources say Amy Winehouse has reportedly begun work on the theme song for forthcoming James Bond film 'Quantum Of Solace' with producer Mark Ronson.

News of this has come even though there has, as yet, been no official word on who will be doing the theme this time round.

Winehouse is staying at Ronson's house in Henley Oxfordshire at the moment to write the song.

'Quantum Of Solace' is scheduled for released on 31 Oct.

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EMINEM TO HEADLINE MANDELA CONCERT

Eminem is set to headline Nelson Mandela's 90th birthday concert, which will take place on 27 June in London's Hyde Park.

The event will be hosted by Will Smith and his wife Jada Pinkett Smith. Stevie Wonder and U2 are so far confirmed for the event . Paul McCartney has also apparently been approached to play.

Tickets for the event will be sold via a pre-registration system.

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MORE MOVES TO STOP SNOOP ENTERING THE U.K?

The UK's Border Agency, a government department (that only came into being last week), are reportedly planning on appealing a ruling of the British Asylum & Immigration Tribunal which gave rap star Snoop Dogg clearance to enter the country.

Snoop was refused a UK visa last year after being charged with violent disorder at Heathrow Airport in 2006. The visa issues led to the cancellation of UK dates on a 2007 Snoop/Diddy co-headline tour.

But the rapper's people appealed the ban on the rapper entering the country, and Snoop himself revealed on US TV recently that that appeal had been successful and that he had been given the OK to come to Britain.

The Border Agency announced on Friday that it would challenge the Tribunal's decision this week. It remains to be seen if they are successful.

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DONNA SUMMER HIT'S THE HEIGHTS ON US DANCE CHART

Donna Summer is back in the US charts this week, as her biggest hit for more than a decade topped the Billboard Dance Chart.

'I'm On Fire' is her nineteenth hit single, and makes her the first person ever to have number one dance hits in the 70s, 80s, 90s and 00s.

The track is taken from the singer's upcoming album 'Crayons', set to be released via SonyBMG in May.

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MARTIN SCORSESE TO DIRECT BOB MARLEY DOCUMENTRY

Martin Scorsese is set to follow up his Bob Dylan and Rolling Stones films with a new documentary on Bob Marley.

This would be a separate project from the movie in development based on the memoirs of Rita Marley.

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THE FUTURES BRIGHT FOR MARIAH

Mariah Carey, has just renewed her worldwide publishing deal with Universal Music Publishing.

Confirming they had extended their publishing relationship with the diva, Universal Publishing boss David Renzer told reporters:

"Carey is well known for her incredible voice, but we also celebrate her incredible strength as a songwriter and the fact that she has co-written most of her best known songs. We're honored that she has agreed to renew her working relationship with UMPG and we look forward to continuing to promote her amazing and wonderful body of work globally".

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NATTY GIG MONDAY 7TH APRIL

We at Blues and Soul pride ourselves in bringing you the cream of the crop in terms of all things new. With no exception we highlight the artist 'Natty' who is surely destined for good things...

Catch him as part of an intimate national tour, he plays Ginglik in Shepherds Bush on Monday the 7th of April... His single â��˜Cold Town' is out on 5th May and look out for 'Natty' performing live on Later with Jools next week.

The highlighted track is from Feb 2008 Natty performing 'Say Bye Bye' live from his rehearsal studio.

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LUPE FIASCO REVEALS SUPERSTAR SUPERGROUP PLANS

US Hip Hop star Lupe Fiasco has said he's planning to launch a super group with Kanye West and Pharrell Williams.

He confirmed the planned collaboration at a 1Xtra gig in Coventry last week, and he reportedly told The Mirror: "We're going to call ourselves CRS - but I can't tell you yet what it stands for".

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COMBS AND ROSEMOND DENY NEW TUPAC ALLEGATIONS

Sean 'Diddy' Combs has denied those new allegations that he knew an attack against rival hip hopper Tupac Shakur was planned before it happened.

As reported in the LA Times writer Chuck Phillips, in a new article on the mid-nineties US hip hop feuds, claims that Diddy was at the Quad Recording Studios in New York the night that Tupac was shot nearby, and that he had been told that his rival would be attacked before it actually happened.

The 1994 shooting of Tupac is seen by many as a catalyst in the at times violent hip hop feuding which led to another shooting of Shakur two years later - that time fatal - and the subsequent murder of Diddy collaborator the Notorious BIG. Allegations have been made in the past about other hip hop types being involved in the 1994 attack on Shakur, or at least about them being aware of it before the event, though Phillips says his latest investigations into the affair have given those rumours new credibility, though he admits that Diddy possibly only knew of plans to "rough Shakur up", and possibly did not know the plan was to shoot him in what seemed very much like attempted murder.

But Combs denied everything Phillips claimed yesterday, quickly issuing a statement denying the allegations against him and criticising the LA Times for publishing them. The statement read: "The story is beyond ridiculous and is completely false. I am shocked that the Los Angeles Times would be so irresponsible as to publish such a baseless and completely untrue story".

The boss of hip hop firm Czar Entertainment, Jimmy Rosemond, who is also accused by Phillips of having prior knowledge of the attack on Shakur (and of having a more proactive role in organising it), also issued a denial yesterday. He told All HipHop.com: "In the past 14 years, I have not even been questioned by law enforcement with regard to the assault of Tupac Shakur, let alone brought up on charges. Chuck Phillips, the writer who in the past has falsely claimed that the Notorious Biggie Smalls was in Las Vegas when Tupac was murdered and that Biggie supplied the gun that killed Tupac - only to be proven wrong as Biggie was in New Jersey recuperating from a car accident - has reached a new low by employing fourth-hand information from desperate jailhouse informants along with ancient FBI reports to create this fabrication".

The Czar chief concluded: "I simply ask for all rap fans and fans of Tupac to analyse this fiction for what it is along with Phillips' motives behind it. I am baffled as to why the LA Times would print this on its website when a simple and fair investigation would reveal that the allegations are false. I am currently consulting with my attorneys about my legal rights regarding this libellous piece of garbage".

It remains to be seen whether any libel action follows - it probably won't, though a libel case on this whole issue might answer some of those eternally unanswered questions about hip hop's lowest hour.

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NEW USHER ALBUM

Usher has announced that his fifth studio album is to be called 'Here I Stand', and that it will be released in June.

A first single from the long player, 'Love In This Club', has already been no. 1 in the US.

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CAREY CATCHES UP WITH THE KING

Mariah Carey is reportedly about to get her eighteenth number one single in the US, bringing her equal on that score with Elvis Presley.

The track, 'Touch My Body', from her new album 'E=MC2' is expected to take the top spot this weekend and will confirm her status as the best-selling female singer of all time. She still needs two more to beat The Beatles total of twenty US number ones, however.

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NEW DONNA SUMMER ALBUM

Donna Summer will release her first new album in over seventeen years in May.

With a working title of 'Crayons', among the collaborators involved in the project are Danielle Brisebois, Greg Kurstin, JR Rotem, Lester Mendez and Evan Bogart. On the project and its working title Summer told Billboard: "My dream is that when people hear the music it will remind them of their youth, their childhood and the joy and wonderment they felt exploring their first pack of crayons".

Let's have the 'Last Dance,' or is it ;-)

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DJ's OF THE WORLD GET BUSY!!!

Aliz� will celebrate its 21st birthday this year, with a nationwide Alize Remixed club tour, hitting Birmingham, Leeds, Manchester, Bristol with the grand finale in London!

They are also searching for the freshest DJ talent to star in the tour, alongside the likes of legendary DJs including Jazzy Jeff and Grandmaster Flash, plus the competition Ambassadors Steve Sutherland , and Shortee Blitz as well as supporting DJs such as Tim Westwood! As a bonus the winners will also win Â�1000.00!! - This isn't a cutting and scratching contest, it's about creating the ultimate vibe!

Aliz� are asking you, the would-be maestros to create a 10 minute mix of your favourite party tracks from the past 21 years, and then upload them to the contest's dedicated website below. Mixes can include any number of tracks, from hip hop and soul to garage and reggae, so long as they make a banging party mix!

So, what you waiting for?!! Get mixing and uploading at
www.alizeremixed.com>Visit to upload here Good luck!

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KANYE WEST SECRETLY WED?

The gossips are saying that Kanye West secretly married his long term girlfriend Alexis Phifer last month in Europe.

The couple were seen hanging around in Paris during Fashion Week, lending weight to the idea that they were in Europe, but not particularly to the rumour that they got hitched.

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MICHAEL JACKSON SECURES NEVERLAND

Michael Jackson has reportedly successfully 'refinanced', meaning that he will be able to pay off the $25 million in debts that were secured on his iconic Californian property, which has sat more or less empty ever since Jacko was acquitted of those child abuse charges back in 2005. Had the debts not been paid off by next week the ranch faced being sold off.

A family friend of the Jacksons, Matt Fiddes, told reporters that the
refinancing had always been assured and the chances of Neverland being sold had been greatly exaggerated by the media, which is probably true, we do like to exaggerate here in the media. At CMU we've been known to exaggerate 73 million times a day. Fiddes told the BBC: "I know for a fact that he wasn't going to lose it. It's not a problem - Michael's keeping Neverland. I've spoken to his brother, Tito, about it and it's not like it is in the papers. It's quite normal for anyone who's a success to have a mortgage on their property because they can get better rates for their money".

Elsewhere in Jackson property news, and the aforementioned Tito is reportedly buying a property in Devon, and the rest of the Jackson clan, Michael included, are expected to use it as a place where they can get away from the media glare - media glaring having not been invented in Devon yet. Tito has reportedly decided to concentrate primarily on UK based projects, and is dead set on having a home in the county.

He is quoted thus: "We hope it [the new home] will be a family hideaway where my brothers and sisters can escape media attention when we need to. I can confirm that he [Michael] has been to Barnstaple on private visits in recent years along with my brother Jermaine and a few other Jackson siblings. My family love North Devon and the wonderful countryside and friendly people. I am looking forward to living in Barnstaple and I hope the Barnstaple public will respect our family's privacy".

'Beat it'... Well he nearly had to :-)

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WHITNEY NEW ALBUM RELEASE

Whitney Houston is to release an album this year, according to BMG US CEO Clive Davis.

Billboard quote the industry exec as saying: "We're on track for a holiday release. We're not going to compromise who she is to fit into today's hip-hop radio market. The public wants Whitney material".

The singer, who has of course, suffered from drug problems in the past, has apparently been working with the likes of Akon and will.i.am on tracks for the new LP.

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BILLIE JEAN ARRESTED AT NEVERLAND- (YOU ARE KIDDING)

You think I'm making it up, don't you? Well it's true. A woman named Billie Jean Jackson has been arrested at Michael Jackson's Neverland ranch for trespassing, according to reports.

Sgt Martin Eberling of Santa Barbara police confirmed that Jackson, who claimed to own the property, was apprehended at the site earlier this week, taken to the county lock-up and bailed. It's thought that it's not the first time the woman has claimed a connection with the singer and his property.

As previously reported, the ranch, now unoccupied by its (real) owner for several years, could be auctioned off shortly due to Jacko's outstanding debts.

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WE HAVE THE GNARLS BARKLEY BANNED VIDEO

The video for new Gnarls Barkley track 'Run' has been pulled due to the fact that it might cause epileptic seizures.

It has apparently failed something called the Harding Test, which you've probably all heard of, which basically gauges how likely strobe effects are to cause a reaction in epilepsy sufferers.

Duo member Danger Mouse says of the promo, which features a cameo from Justin Timberlake: "I don't know exactly what's going on, but we're having issues. I think (the video) is cool. It works for me. But I'm not necessarily that easily seasick. We can't predict how people are going to interpret it".

The new Gnarls Barkley album, 'The Odd Couple', is out on 8 Apr.

THE VIDEO BELOW IS FOR THE TRACK 'RUN'... PLEASE BE AWARE WHEN WATCHING THIS VIDEO AS IT MAY CAUSE SEIZURES.

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TIMBERLAKE SPOKESMODEL FOR GIVENCHY

Justin Timberlake, it has been announced, is to be the new spokesmodel for French perfume house Givenchy.

The company say they chose him because he 'redefined modern elegance'. Nothing to do with your music then Justin... Just joking :-)

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CALVIN KLEIN SIGNS FERGIE

Black Eyed Pea Fergie is the new spokesperson for Calvin Klein, according to reports.

A company insider says of the singer, who wore a yellow Calvin
Klein gown to the Grammys last week: "Fergie is a perfect fit. She loves Calvin, and he thinks she is beautiful and fun and brings a lot to the brand".

The 'insider' continued: "Fergie loves the classic Calvin look, and he is one of the designers she's considering for her wedding dress. She says she hasn't had much time to really think about her wedding, but is having a lot of fun figuring it all out as she goes along".

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RIHANNA MADE CULTURAL AMBASSADOR

Rihanna has been made an honorary cultural ambassador to her native island of Barbados.

A rally was held a few days ago to honour the singer and Prime Minister David Thompson announced the honorary appointment, as well as saying that his government were also planning to recognise the singer's achievements by awarding her a "piece of the rock" - a plot of real estate in the exclusive Apes Hill area of St James.

We thought we'd show you the remix of Rihanna's 'Don't Stop The Music' with Michael Jackson's 'Gotta Be Startin Somethin'... Hey, well it's better than the remixes on the Thriller 25 album ;-)

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HIP HOP STAR EDISON CHEN QUITS CAREER

Chinese hip hop pop star and actor Edison Chen has announced he is putting his career on hold following a sex photo scandal which has been very big news in China of late.

The Canadian born Chinese c'leb had taken over 1000 sexually explicit photos of various women, something which became a problem when he took his laptop in to a computer repair shop to be fixed and staff members there found the pics and decided to upload them to the internet. Among the photo collection were pictures of six female Chinese celebrities - so you can imagine it caused quite a stir, especially given China's strict rules on pornography and the internet. Ten people have already been arrested in relation to the scandal.

Chen held a press conference to formally comment on the scandal, where he told reporters he was "deeply saddened" about the whole thing and that he wanted to "apologise to all the people for all the suffering that has been caused". He continued: "I admit that most of these photos being circulated on the internet were taken by me. But these photos were very private and have not [previously] been shown to people and were never intended to be shown to anyone. There is no doubt whoever obtained these photos had been uploading them on the internet with malicious and deliberate intent. This matter has deteriorated to the extent that society as a whole has been affected by this, and in this regard I am deeply saddened".

He concluded by saying he didn't feel he could continue with his music and movie career in light of the scandal, and that he would dedicate his life to voluntary and charity work instead. He said: "I have decided to step away from the Hong Kong entertainment industry. I have decided to do this to give myself an opportunity to heal myself and search my soul".

We found this amusing news item about the scandal, with Chen's sincere apology... Well, what do you think?!

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NO CHART POSITION FOR 'THRILLER'

US chart bosses have said that the re-release of Michael Jackson's 'Thriller', won't be eligible for the main Billboard album countdown because they consider it to be a 'catalogue album', despite the additional remix tracks.

Billboards Director Of Charts Geoff Mayfield admitted that there had been much chatter between his organisation and SonyBMG about the status of the 25th anniversary re-release, which would go in at number two in the Billboard chart based on its current US sales, but that execs at the chart enterprise have decided to stick by their rule that reissues do not count in the main chart.

Undercover quote Mayfield thus: "SonyBMG stated a strong case and we did consider it. I took to heart their comments and then I took it to retail. The response I got overwhelmingly is that it is a catalogue album and belongs on the catalogue chart. It is being worked in Sony through Legacy which is their catalogue division. The core of the album is a 25 year old recording. The addition of new material doesn't make it different".

He added that it would be unfair to make an exception for the Jacko album, which was the highest new entry in the UK album chart last weekend, when similar reissues in the past have not been eligible for the main album chart - eg a recent reissue of Beck's 'Odelay' which also featured new remixes.

Undercover point out that last year's Traveling Wilburys reissue package was deemed eligible for the album chart, but Mayfield says that that was totally different. He told the website: "Wilburys was the entire Wilburys output in one package which had never been done before. If 'Thriller' and 'Off The Wall' were combined into one package then that would qualify and would have been charted".

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ROBYN TO APPEAR ON SNOOP'S 'SENSUAL SEDUCTION'

Robyn is to be featured on a Fyre Department remix of Snoop Dogg's upcoming single 'Sensual Seduction'.

Which includes an 'adult version' named 'Sexual Eruption'. Snoop's new album 'Ego Trippin' is out on the 24th of March.

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ALICIA KEYS POSTPONES UK TOUR DATES

Alicia Keys has been forced to cancel two UK tour dates as her doctor has told her she must rest her voice.

The singer, who is suffering from laryngitis was to appear on Monday in Glasgow and Tuesday in Manchester. Publicist Patti Webster says the dates will be rescheduled.

Alicia also plays Wednesday 27th in London, but has made no announcement yet as to if that date will go ahead.

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EMINEM'S SHOW AND TELL

Eminem is set to publish what's described as a visual and written memoir, entitled 'The Way I Am'.

This will be featuring previously unseen photos, hand drawn pictures, lyrical sketches and entries from journals. The rap star will write an introduction and a present day narrative for the book.

Ian Preece, a senior commissioning editor at Orion Publishing Group, says the book will show Marshall Mathers as he really is, and not how the public perceive him.

He says: "Because of where he is from, people think they know where he is at, what kind of person he really is. This book cuts through all that and gets to the source".

It's scheduled to be out on 16 Oct.

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GRAMMYS DID SAY 'NO' TO MICHAEL JACKSON

The rumours that Michael Jackson was going to formally appear at the Grammy Awards earlier this month had some foundation -

Grammy bosses did invite Jacko to appear ahead of the release of the 25th anniversary edition of 'Thriller', but they withdrew the offer because of a string of demands the singer made regarding his appearance.

According to the New York Post, Jackson insisted he be given a special award, that it be presented by a person of his choice, that the entire event be dedicated to his career, and that his status as 'king of pop' be mentioned at least thirty times (only) during the show. Grammy bosses declined.

Watch Michael with the 'Jackson 5 many moons ago on the Ed Sullivan show.' Hey Michael we want you back... Don't we?!

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IT'S ALL ABOUT DRE

Dr Dre is continuing his legal action against the up-for-sale Death Row Records. Dre, who has had various legal run ins with the label he co-founded, and his former business partner Suge Knight.

Dre has issued legal proceedings claiming he actually owns certain recordings that have been included in the Death Row bankruptcy sale, mainly because the label, he alleges, defaulted on previous contracts relating to those recordings.

The bankruptcy courts have already rejected one of Dre's lawsuits, though have given the hip hop mogul the OK to appeal that ruling. Dre's latest legal papers, filed last week, are now asking for access to Death Row's accounts and company files because he says he needs to be able to calculate what he is owed in terms of royalties that have accrued since the hip hop label filed for bankruptcy. Dre's lawyers want to see all the paperwork surrounding their client's agreements with the label, and figures for what monies his recordings have generated since the bankruptcy.

Following the bankruptcy of Death Row and its owner Suge Knight, the legendary hip hop label's assets are now up for sale, and Warner Music are reportedly bidding $25 million to buy them. Early Dre and Tupac recordings are among the gems in the Death Row catalogue that can demand such a high asking price.

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ARETHA PARTS WITH ARISTA

Aretha Franklin has confirmed that she will self-release her next album after deciding to not re-sign to SonyBMG's Arista Records.

This bring to an end a 25 year working relationship with the label and its founder Clive Davis. She says she remains on amicable terms with both, but just couldn't reach an agreement regarding how to move forward within the SonyBMG division.

Associated Press quote her thus: "I wanted to stay [with Arista] and he [Davis] wanted me to stay, but we just didn't meet halfway in the middle there. So I decided not to re-sign and just go ahead and start my own label and be distributed by some fabulous company".

Franklin adds that a major label partnership is no longer so necessary for an artist of her level, explaining "we'll go online and we'll go on TV with 1-800 ads" when asked how her own label plans to get her new long player to the masses.

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PUBLIC ENEMY GO LIVE

Public Enemy are to take part in this year's 'Don't Look Back' season, and are set to play their 'It Takes A Nation Of Millions To Hold Us Back' album.

Reports say that they are set to play the album in full at three live dates later this year. The gigs take place on 23 May at Brixton Academy, 26 May at Manchester Academy, and 27 May at Glasgow's ABC1

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TIMBALAND TO MOBILIZE NEW ALBUM

Timbaland is set to release a mobile phone only album as part of a new deal with US mobile network Verizon.

The producer will work on a bunch of new songs which will only be available - initially at least - via Verizon's V Cast service. The hip hopper says this: "Everybody has a mobile phone, but producing a mobile album has never been done. I'm the first to ever do it".

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MISSY MISSING A TITLE FOR NEW ALBUM

Missy Elliot has asked fans to suggest a title for her new album, because, she claims, she's stuck, and can't come up with one herself.

She's offering a prize to whoever comes up with a good name for the new LP - a credit in the sleeve notes, and a $500 Adidas gift card. The album's expected out in May.

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KANYE WEST GRABS A GRAMMY (OR FOUR)

Big winner at the Grammy's was Kanye West, perhaps not surprisingly, given he started the evening with the most nominations. He took four awards, including Best Rap Song and Best Rap Album.

He paid tribute to his late mother Donda who, of course, died very suddenly last year. When Grammy producers tried to cut short his tribute by getting the house band to start playing, West was having none of it, remarking "It would be in good taste to stop the music". Speaking to his late mum, he said: "Last night I saw you in my dreams, and now I can't wait to go to sleep. I know you're really proud of me right now and I know you want me to be the number one artist in the world. And mama, all I'm going to do is keep making you proud. We run this".

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JACKO THRILLED TO BE BACK

Michael Jackson has been bigging up his new album, the previously reported 'Thriller: 25th Anniversary Edition', out 11 Feb.

A re-recorded version of his seminal 1982 LP complete with remixes and featuring star turns, reportedly from the likes of Will.I.Am and Kanye West. Speaking to the NRJ awards via a video link at the weekend, he spoke of his comeback and of the anniversary album in glowing terms. The singer said: "There is a lot more to come from Michael Jackson. I'm coming back. And I've got a very special treat for all my fans. I have been recording 'Thriller: 25th Anniversary' with a lot of surprise guests".

Elsewhere in Jacko news, the rumour mill is rife with rumour,that Michael Jackson will celebrate said anniversary with an appearance at the Grammy Awards on 10 Feb. The gossips are almost sure he'll be there; whether he'll actually perform or not is the question.

Rumours continue about other Michael Jackson appearances including Jacko appearing during the always high profile Super Bowl half time show this weekend - no doubt to promote the previously reported 25th anniversary re-release of 'Thriller'. That said, these rumours might stem from reports a big TV ad campaign for the re-release will launch during the big sports bonanza. If he is actually taking to the stage during the game presumably the show's producers will be on guard - we all know what happened the last time a Jackson appeared at the Super Bowl.

THRILLER 25 FINAL TRACKLISTING

1. Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'
2. Baby Be Mine
3. The Girl Is Mine (with Paul McCartney)
4. Thriller
5. Beat It
6. Billie Jean
7. Human Nature
8. P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)
9. The Lady In My Life
10. Vincent Price Excerpt (From Thriller Voice-Over Session)
11. The Girl Is Mine 2008 with will.i.am
12. P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing) 2008 with will.i.am
13. Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' 2008 with Akon
14. Beat It 2008 with Fergie
15. Billie Jean 2008 Kayne West mix
16. For All Time (previously unreleased track from Thriller sessions)

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LUDACRIS SUED

From the pop police files to the pop courts, and rapper Ludacris has been accused of copyright infringement in a lawsuit filed last week.

Three producers from Chester, Pennsylvania claim they sent the rap star's label, Disturbing Tha Peace, a CD of tracks they had developed in 2004, but that their approach was met with a lukewarm response. However, when Ludacris album 'The Red Light District' was released the same year they discovered one track, 'Get Back', was very similar to one of theirs.

The three producers, Damon 'Damethegreat' Mayfield, Markus 'Vincent' Vick and Anthony Turner - who trade as Boogiii Men Entertainment Group - allege Ludacris and his people stole aspects of their track for 'Get Back' without crediting them or giving them their due cut of the royalties.

Ludacris and Disturbing Tha Peace are yet to comment.

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E'N'D OF THE LINE FOR NAS

Universal's Def Jam is seriously considering ending its relationship with Nas over his controversial 'N' word title for his forthcoming album.

More hip hop gossip courtesy of MediaTakeOut.com. They are claiming Universal's Def Jam is seriously considering ending its relationship with Nas over his controversial choice of name for his next album, 'Nigger'. Nas announced he had picked the controversial album title just as key black community groups in the US called on hip hop artists and, in particular, major hip hop labels, to stop releasing music with racist or sexist words in them.

Universal is keen to placate those campaigners, and has reportedly tried to persuade Nas to rethink, but he's not been willing so far to budge. The site cites a Universal source thus: "There is no way that we can put out an album with that title. Many retailers have already told us - flat out - that they won't carry it. Nas' last album sold pretty well, but not well enough for the headache he's causing the label. If Nas doesn't change his mind, he'll be dropped. And he doesn't have to much time to come to that realization".

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