Well Here is What You Got Coming Up For March 2008, Looks To Be a Good Month!

On March 11th, The Following Will Be Released:

• Snoop Dogg: Ego Trippin'

• Fat Joe: The Elephant in the Room

• Rick Ross: Trilla
  

On March 18th, The Following Will Be Released:

• Danity Kane: Welcome to the Dollhouse

• Flo Rida: Mail on Sunday
  

On March 25th, The Following Will Be Released:

• The B-52's: Funplex

• Panic at the Disco: Pretty. Odd.

• David Banner: The Greatest Story Ever Told

• Counting Crows: Saturday Nights and Sunday Mornings

Looks to be a jammed packed month, can't wait for the Flo Rida and Counting Crows albums, make sure to check back for more reviews!

I did not think I would be posting up a sequel post to my original "Music & Politics" post, but here I am, doing it again.  So what is new this time?  Well for one thing, has been new, and that is the new Will.I.Am Obama song.  I truly do not know this man does it.  Well, when you look at a political ad, or song, you try and see what it has to say (or at least I do).  Take the new song made by Will.I.Am, it is upbeat, it talks about better life for everyone.  Why doesn't Hillary Clinton get someone like Will.I.Am to do this?  Does Clinton even have fans like this, who are so dedicated to her political campaign.  The art of campaigning is a very interesting thing.  I mean if you look at the Obama campaign, he hasn't hired Will.I.Am (yet) to do campaigning for him.

I mean if you look at almost everything in the world, it is politics.  Music is something that is instrumental to politics and political ads and campaigning.  I mean what do you think would be different about the American Presidential Election if Hilary Clinton had Kanye West singing ads for her.  What if Huckabee decided to have 50 Cent produce a song for his campaign?  These are things to think about!  Do you think Obama will be the next President because Will.I.Am and so many other stars (not just any old stars, but popular and award winning stars) are voicing their views and what they think he can bring to their country?  All the rest of the candidates could use fans like Obama.  

"We Are The Ones" Music Video:

There are tons of ideas whirling in my head right now, all of which I may want to act upon.  It has been awhile since we have had a full blog update, so we may be due for one.  We are not looking to change the format of the blog, or the way we do things on here, but maybe getting rid of, or adding new features to the blog.  Our blog has started to get its name out there, and we want to thank everyone for helping us accomplish our goal to being the best blog out on the web.  We would like to hear more from you, the viewers who read the blog and check it every now and then.  I want to know what you guys want to see from us!  The blog was set up for discussion, and no one has really discussed much.  

Another update for you all is that Tha Good Life Reviews and Ain't Got No Music (our affiliate blog) will hopefully be working on putting out some stuff for all of our viewers.  Awhile back, AKAvsMA and I were talking of doing the following projects together.

• T-Pain: The Collection (Collaborations/Productions/Remixes)
• TGLR & AGNM: Fan Made Mixes and Mashes

It is not final that AKAvsMA wants to continue to do this project, as I am still awaiting an e-mail response from him, but if so, I am sure he (and I) will do a great job if we do decide to do it.  Those are just a few things that we have in mind and in store, what do you think the blog needs or doesn't need, we want to hear what you have to say!

I was sitting in my chair, looking at the computer screen, and it hit me.  Besides just writing reviews and reporting news, maybe I should make this blog into something more.  Something special!  Something that will benefit everyone.  So I made the decision to now offer hosting to any fundraising group that would like to find a way to get fundraising through blogs.  I don't know if other blogs will follow in my blogs foot steps (I highly doubt it), but I think that this blog should give something back to the community and should help out with problems around the world.  If you are someone who would like us to host a Donation section to your cause, drop us a e-mail and we will let you know what we think.  This is not something we are kidding about, so now stupid stuff like, "Donate to the Billy Needs Money Fund,"  I am talking about real groups trying to make a difference out there.  Hopefully some of the viewers of the blog could just donate a dollar or two to the cause that we would be supporting.  It is always great to give back, and I want to make this blog a way in which we can do that!  If you want to host a fundraiser on our blog, (we will only be hosting one to two at a time), drop us an e-mail at: sickwitityo@gmail.com. We look forward to hearing some offers from charities out there!

Hot Fuss, Sam's Town, and here we are.  The Killers have announced that they will be producing a third album, and it is supposed to come out in the Fall of 2008.  Rumor has it that the album will be much different then their most recent release (Sam's Town).  It is expected that the album will be going back going back  to what they originally started off with.  That sound and feel you got off their first release is apparently the style they are looking for.  I am excited to see what they do with their third album!  Expect more news on the album as more information is attainable.

I don't know about the rest of you, but I am getting sick of hearing of musicians doing stupid things.  Some of the stuff they are getting locked up over is stuff they could avoid (like Ne-Yo's recent run in with the law, in which he was going over 100 M.P.H. on a road.)  As people who work in a business in which young, highly influential, teens and young adults, could you blame the music industry for some of the crimes that go on around the world?  It would not be such a ludicrous idea.

When you have so many people who listen to music, and look up to musicians, it is easy to see as to how artists like 50 Cent, Kanye West, Ne-Yo, and others could be very influential on how society works.  Artists like these may not know that, but they play a big role in many lives. When people blame Rap/Hip-Hop for, "causing crime rates to rise," they don't look at what aspect of the industry is doing it.  It is not the lyrics of the artist, it is the action.  You all know the famous quote, "Actions speak louder then words."  Well you can definitely see it in today's music industry. Lyrics are not the problem, it is the actions in which the musician partakes in that is the problem.

Maybe more artists should be like Chamillionaire, and start acting like an average person. While that may be a hard thing to do, Chamil sure does a great job of being a class act citizen. He is one of the only people Rap/Hip-Hop stars out there to produce an album that does not swear, and is appropriate for all. While it is awfully hard to make an album such as King Koopa has, you can still be a good person and stay out of trouble while still living the stars life. Musicians like Mos Def, Talib Kweli, John Legend, and Common are all examples of people who entertain, and are examples of how people should act in the world. Think about it the next time you see an article of your favorite artist doing something they shouldn't, I am sure you will agree with me that it really isn't the lyrics, rather the actions that they commit

I am sure there have been tons of rumors on what is to come from Eminem, but we are here to tell you what is up with his current entertainment productions.  As of right now, it appears that Eminem will be coming out with a book that will explore the inner Eminem in which people have  never seen before.  Pictures, drawings, and other interesting stuff is said to be included in the book.  Now this is not the first time a celebrity has announced that they will be releasing a book.  O.J. had wanted to release the book, If I Did It, so what will Eminem's book be titled? Anyone want to guess, because I have no idea what he would call it.  I am sure the book will be a good read and give more information and understanding into the life that is Marshall Manthers.

Besides the new biographical which will be about Eminem's personal life, it has been confirmed by Mr. Manther's representative that the Detroit Rap star has not confirmed release date of an album to come out let alone if he has even been working on a new album (rumors of a new Eminem album have been floating around on the web for a long time now).  Thats all the news and information we have on Eminem, when we hear more, you'll see it here first!

Well, as reported earlier, Talib Kweli will be coming out with an album this year.  That fact has not changed, and neither has the title.  What we have that is so new is that not only will Talib Kweli be putting together a solo album effort, but it has now been announced that  he will be working with Hi-Tek and Res on two other albums.  So below will be a synopsis of the albums, and there names.  I am really excited for his up coming three releases this year, and if his solo album is as good as his one last year, then his 2008 release will for sure be fantastic.

Second Reflection Eternal:  The follow up album to Talib Kweli and DJ Hi-Tek's ever so popular Train of Thought.  Just like on Train of Thought, DJ Hi-Tek will be producing all the tracks, and Talib Kweli will be MC'ing those same tracks.  So don't think of this album as much of a collab effort, it is more like a teamwork album in which Hi-Tek is just sort of helping out and not being too active (singing wise).  The only expected guest on the album so far is Dion, but I am positive that there will be more as more news comes out on this release.

Party Robot: The first album that will be put out by the brand new group that calls themselves, "Idle Warship."  This newly formed group is made up of obviously Talib Kweli and Res (who appeared on the opening track of Ear Drum by Talib Kweli).  There collaboration album is to be called Party Robot and should be an interesting listen.  I have never really heard of Res before, and I love Talib, so there really isn't much to say about how I think this album will work out.  There has already been a leaked track from the album entitled, "Industry Diary."  This leaked track has yet to be confirmed on the album, but you can listen to it just by searching around on the web.

From our past news on Kweli, we did not have any tracks which were either leaked or confirmed on the album, but now we have one!  This track is confirmed to be on the album and is produced by Kanye West.  The track is entitled, "Momma, Can You Hear Me Now?" and I am sure if you look around on the web, you could find a YouTube video featuring the song.  I hope you all know a bit more about what Kweli has in store for all his fans this year, the lineup for his releases seem jam packed!

This week's remix of the week is really amazing, and it is a great remix for a classic (though new) song. None other than 99 Problems by Jay-Z. This week's remix is mixed by Ratid, and is actually a mix and not a mashup. Basically if you're looking to listen to Jay-Z's powerful lyrics with a little more happiness and flare, this is the song for you. This could be a great pump up song, and I know that everyone is always looking for more of those (foreshadowing a post?). Anyway, the video is really good though, although I don't think it's mixed. An mp3 download will be provided as soon as possible, but for now enjoy the YouTube stream.

Video:

Well, we have left this offer open for a long time now and not many have shown interest or responded.  We are still awaiting for more DJ's/MC's/Performers to e-mail us with their bio and material.  If you want to be promoted by our blog, feel free to drop us a line and we will tell you all you need to know.  As of right now, we have two artists we are currently promoting (J. Dollaz and Nyasha Shani).  E-mail us and we will be sure to get back to you as soon as possible. To reach us, click on the e-mail address following this sentence.  sickwitityo@gmail.com

We hope to hear from future artists soon!  Keep checking back in with us for more reviews and music news!

1.) What has inspired you to "do what you do"?
Answer: Alot of things inspire me to do what I do. I'd have to say that current and past struggles in life inspire me to do what I do along with my 2 kids, friends, family, the fans, etc.

2.) Has there ever been a time in which you have been supported by a recording company, if so, who.
Answer: It depends on ya definition of what support is. I signed to an indie label called Hard Body Ent. back in 2006. I was suppose to go on tour with them but nothin' ever materialized from me signin' to them due to me bein' on level 2 probation and a loss of contact between the label and myself.

3.) Have you ever done any live performances? if so, where.
Answer: I have never done a live performance yet but hopefully I will soon.

4.) How does putting out a song work for you? Do you have someone mix tracks for you, or is it just a one man band man production?
Answer: I usually do everythin' myself. With the remixes I do all the mixin' myself as for some of the original tracks, S Tha Mogul has produced some of them but I mix my own part on every song. Remixes and originals.

5.) What is your musical background (i.e. who do you work with on your tracks?)
Answer: The main people I collaborate with are S Tha Mogul and 20 Grand. I'm lookin' to collab with other artists to so if anyone wants to collab then hit me up.

6.) What are the main focus of your songs?
Answer: My main focus depends on how the beat sounds. With the remixes I just go along with the topic that the actual artist are already talkin' about. With original tracks it depends on how the beat sounds. Like an original track I have to finish recording called "I Be Grindin", the beat sounds like a hood/anthem type track so that's what the track is turnin' out to be.

7.) Who influences you to "do what you do"?
Answer: Influences to me are more who I look up to in a sense so I'd have to say I'm influenced by the emcees I named in my bio, Budden, Banks, Em, Fab, Cass, etc.

8.) How would you define success, and how do you attend to capture success?
Answer: I define success by whatever makes me or anyone happy from there own point of view. Like if I'm happy with a girl I'm in a relationship with then I'd consider that a successful relationship. I plan to capture success by just continuin' to grind and do music. I've been doin' music since I was 16, I'm 21 now. I have feelin' that all my hard work will pay off soon, if not then someone's dyin', lol.

9.) Do you have any contacts with people in the music industry?
Answer: Nope, none. Not to mention I'm from Delaware, the land of no opprotunity.

10.) How do you want to be remembered?
Answer: It'd be nice to be remembered like Big and Pac are remembered, like Jay-Z will be remembered. Not every emcee can achieve that status though so honestly, I just wanna be remembered as an emcee who was very lyrical and had a story to tell that should be made into a movie, lol.

11.) What makes you different then other MC's out there?
Answer: I think what makes me different from other emcees is my hunger to make my hard work pay off, my hunger to succeed. Another thing that I think makes me different is that I'm lyrical, at least I consider myself lyrical. If you listen to any track I do whether remix or original I always use multi's and usually there's a few punch-lines thrown in with some word play. I'm also different in the sense that I can dig deep and talk about the struggles I've been through which I haven't meant an emcee yet who's been through some of the shit I've been through.

12.) Who is your favorite musician?
Answer: It's a tie between Joe Budden, Lloyd Banks and Eminem.

13.) What are your upcoming musical works (names, tracks?)
Answer: I'm currently workin' on 4 mixtapes, 3 remixes and 1 original mixtape. the remixes will be the usual set ups meanin' the big songs of the year will be what I remix and some hot underground songs that deserve mainstream attention will get remixed (ie. Deepside's "What I Need"). My original mixtape "Who Can Relate?" just under went a track list face lift. I scraped the previous track list for a new one. Some of the tracks that will be on "Who Can Relate?" are "I Be Grindin", "Back 2 Lyrics", "So Beauitful", "Ain't No Love", "U Coulda Been", etc.

14.) Who is your biggest competition? Have you ever had competition to be better then another musician?
Answer: My biggest competition is myself. I'm always tryin' to out do myself on every track I do whether it's a remix or an original track. I've been told on a number of occasions that I'm very lyrical so I stay tryin' to become more lyrical with every track I do. Anytime I collab with S and/or 20 I always view it as friendly competition, lol. It's like okay let's see who's gon' shine on this track, u might of had the last one but I'm gon' shine on this one, lol.

Check Out The Blog I Created For Him For Downloads And Other Information!  Check It Out By Clicking Here!

Once and awhile, we come by a mixtape/compilation in which we just can't ignore, and must do a review for.  Well, we came about this compilation set of unreleased Chris Brown songs off his past album entitled, "Exclusive."  After giving the compilation mixtape a listen, I listened to it again, and again, and again.  I could not believe that these tracks never made the cut,  The album itself was amazing, but all these tracks that did not make it were just as good!  The mixtape itself was just all around amazing, and was so solid, I was extremely surprised at how good all these tracks were.  I am thinking that these tracks were so good that he will end up making an third album with them...I am hoping!  Who knows, there may be another mixtape out in which there will be more tracks that were not included with the album.  Whoever made the compilation did an amazing job, and I advise that if anyone comes across it, that they should give it a listen and enjoy the sweet tunes of the one and only Chris Brown.

Mixtape/Compilation Name:

The Exclusive Tracks

Featured Track Listing:

ABC's
Dying
First Day of Spring
Get At Ya
Gone Get It
Greatness (Feat. T-Pain)
I Better Leave
I Needed you
I'm Afraid
I'm Gonna Find Out
It Was Me
Keep It Movin'
Mama
Say Goodbye (Remix)
Try A Little Tenderness
With You (Remix) (Feat. Karina Pasian)
Wuz' Up
Missin' You (Feat. Johnta Austin)
Boombox
Fire
Kiss Kiss (Acapella) (Feat. T-Pain)
Kiss Kiss (Instrumental)
Kiss Kiss (Official Remix) (Feat. T-Pain & Papoose)
Kiss Kiss (R-Sin Remix) (Feat. T-Pain)
Kiss Kiss (Reggae Remix) (Feat. T-Pain & Tok)
Kiss Kiss (Remix) (Feat. T-Pain & Nelly)
Wall To Wall (Remix) (Feat. Kimberley Gibbs)
Wall To Wall (Remix) (Feat. Jadakiss)
Wall To Wall (Remix) (Feat. Talib Kweli & Jadakiss)
Nice (Instrumental)
Nice (Remix) (Feat. The Game & ATM)
With You (Instrumental)

Download It (Not Our Upload):

Part One

Part Two

Two years after their 2005 release, the Foo Fighters were at it again, releasing a brand new album entitled, Echoes, Silence, Patience, & Grace.  The September 25th, 2007 release was a hit, reaching number one on the UK Album Chart, Official Canadian Album Chart, Australian ARIA Album Chart, New Zealand RIANZ Album Chart, and Billboard Hard Rock Album Chart. The first single off the album was the hit song, "The Pretender," which was followed by "Long Road to Ruin" and "Cheer Up, Boys (Your Make Up Is Running)."  Echoes, Silence, Patience, & Grace will probably go down as the Foo Fighters best album of all time.  If you have never heard of the Foo Fighters, check out their past musical works, and their most recent release from 2007.

The Grammys:

Best Hard Rock Performance - "The Pretender" [WINNER]
Best Rock Album - Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace [WINNER]

Record of the Year - "The Pretender" [NOMINATED]
Best Rock Song - "The Pretender" [NOMINATED]
Album of the Year - Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace [NOMINATED]

The Brit Awards:

International Band - Foo Fighters [WINNER]

International Album - Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace [WINNER]

Track Listing:
"The Pretender"
"Let It Die"
"Erase/Replace"
"Long Road to Ruin"
"Come Alive"
"Stranger Things Have Happened"
"Cheer Up, Boys (Your Make Up Is Running)"
"Summer's End"
"Ballad of the Beaconsfield Miners"
"Statues"
"But, Honestly"
"Home"
"Once & for All (Demo) (Japan, iTunes and UK Bonus Track)"
"Seda (iTunes Pre-Order and Japan Bonus Track)"
"The Pretender (Live At Wal-Mart Soundcheck Bonus Track)"
"My Hero (Live At Wal-Mart Soundcheck Bonus Track)"

I can promise that almost every single one of you have never heard of this Rock/Pop band, but I am here to not only introduce you to their works, but also to review their most recent album. If you want to get a sense of this band's forte' for music, think of it as soft, mellow, and calming voices with great tunes. Their debut album entitled, "Influence of Geography" came out in June of 2005. The Southland are signed to Ruffworld Records, which also had Prince, Earth, Wind & Fire, and Ray Parker Jr. The Southland have been touring since their 2005 release, and one of their tracks appeared on the hit television show on NBC called, "Scrubs." If you go pick up The Southland's 2005 release, I am sure you will enjoy it in its entirety! Below is the track listing and other stuff, so check it out!

Information:

The Southland MySpace
Buy Album Off of Amazon

Track Listing:

"Shadow"
"305"
"Miles"
"Aftermath [Explicit]"
"I Only Have Eyes (For You)"
"Each His Own [Explicit]"
"Shining Sun"
"Creatures [Explicit]"
"Debris"
"Radio"
"Good Grief"
"Anything At All"
"The Drowning"

*Names In Italic Are The Winners & Dark Green*

Record of the Year:

"Irreplaceable" - Beyoncé
"The Pretender" - Foo Fighters
"Umbrella" - Rihanna Featuring Jay-Z
"What Goes Around.../...Comes Around" - Justin Timberlake
"Rehab" - Amy Winehouse

Album of the Year:

"Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace" - Foo Fighters
"These Days" - Vince Gill
"River: The Joni Letters" - Herbie Hancock
"Graduation" - Kanye West
"Back to Black" - Amy Winehouse

Song of the Year:

"Before He Cheats" – Josh Kear & Chris Tompkins (Carrie Underwood)
"Hey There Delilah" – Tom Higgenson (Plain White T's)
"Like a Star" – Corinne Bailey Rae (Corinne Bailey Rae)
"Rehab" – Amy Winehouse (Amy Winehouse)
"Umbrella" – Shawn Carter, Kuk Harrell, Terius "Dream" Nash, & Christopher Stewart (Rihanna featuring Jay-Z)

Best New Artist:

Feist
Ledisi
Paramore
Taylor Swift
Amy Winehouse

Best Female Pop Vocal Performance:

"Candyman" - Christina Aguilera
"1234" – Feist
"Big Girls Don't Cry" – Fergie
"Say It Right" – Nelly Furtado
"Rehab" – Amy Winehouse

Best Male Pop Vocal Performance:

"Everything" – Michael Bublé
"Belief" – John Mayer
"Dance Tonight" – Paul McCartney
"Amazing" – Seal
"What Goes Around.../...Comes Around" – Justin Timberlake

Best Pop Performance by a Duo/Group With Vocals:

"(You Want to) Make a Memory" – Bon Jovi
"Home" – Daughtry
"Makes Me Wonder" – Maroon 5
"Hey There Delilah" – Plain White T's
"Window in the Skies" – U2

Best Pop Collaboration With Vocals:

"Steppin' Out" – Tony Bennett & Christina Aguilera
"Beautiful Liar" – Beyoncé & Shakira
"Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved On)" – Robert Plant & Alison Krauss
"The Sweet Escape" – Gwen Stefani & Akon
"Give It to Me" – Timbaland featuring Nelly Furtado & Justin Timberlake

Best Pop Instrumental Performance:

"Off the Grid" – Beastie Boys
"Paris Sunrise #7" – Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals
"Over the Rainbow" – Dave Koz
"One Week Last Summer" – Joni Mitchell
"Simple Pleasures" – Spyro Gyra

Best Pop Instrumental Album:

"The Mix-Up" – Beastie Boys
"Italia" – Chris Botti
"At the Movies" – Dave Koz
"Good to Go-Go" – Spyro Gyra
"Roundtrip" – Kirk Whalum

Best Pop Vocal Album:

"Lost Highway" – Bon Jovi
"The Reminder" – Feist
"It Won't Be Soon Before Long" – Maroon 5
"Memory Almost Full" – Paul McCartney
"Back to Black" – Amy Winehouse

Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album:

"Call Me Irresponsible" - Michael Bublé
"Cool Yule" - Bette Midler
"Trav'lin' Light" - Queen Latifah
"Live in Concert 2006" - Barbra Streisand
"James Taylor at Christmas" - James Taylor

Best Rock Solo Vocal Performance:

"Timebomb" - Beck
"Only Mama Knows" - Paul McCartney
"Our Country" - John Mellencamp
"Radio Nowhere" - Bruce Springsteen
"Come On" - Lucinda Williams

Best Rock Performance By a Duo/Group With Vocals:
"It's Not Over" - Daughtry
"Working Class Hero" - Green Day
"If Everyone Cared" - Nickelback
"Instant Karma" - U2
"Icky Thump" - The White Stripes

Best Hard Rock Performance:
"Sweet Sacrifice" - Evanescence
"The Pretender" - Foo Fighters
"I Don't Wanna Stop" - Ozzy Osbourne
"Sick, Sick, Sick" - Queens of the Stone Age
"The Pot" - Tool

Best Rock Album:
"Daughtry" - Daughtry
"Revival" - John Fogerty
"Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace" - Foo Fighters
"Magic" - Bruce Springsteen
"Sky Blue Sky" - Wilco

Best Female R&B Vocal Performance:

"Just Fine" - Mary J. Blige
"When I See U" - Fantasia
"No One" - Alicia Keys
"If I Have My Way"- Chrisette Michele
"Hate on Me"- Jill Scott

Best Male R&B Vocal Performance:
"Woman" - Raheem DeVaughn
"B.U.D.D.Y." - Musiq Soulchild
"Because of You" - Ne-Yo
"Future Baby Mama" - Prince
"Please Don't Go" - Tank

Best R&B Album:
"Funk This" - Chaka Khan
"Lost & Found" - Ledisi
"Luvanmusiq" - Musiq Soulchild
"The Real Thing" - Jill Scott
"Sex, Love & Pain" - Tank

Best Contemporary R&B Album:
"Konvicted" - Akon
"Just Like You" - Keyshia Cole
"Fantasia" - Fantasia
"East Side Story" - Emily King
"Because of You" - Ne-Yo

Best Rap Solo Performance:
"The People" - Common featuring Dwele
"I Get Money" - 50 Cent
"Show Me What You Got" - Jay-Z
"Big Things Poppin' (Do It)" - T.I.
"Stronger" - Kanye West

Best Country Album:
Long Trip Alone - Dierks Bentley
These Days - Vince Gill
Let It Go - Tim McGraw
5th Gear - Brad Paisley
It Just Comes Natural - George Strait

Best Reggae Album:
The Burning Spear Experience - Burning Spear
Mind Control - Stephen Marley
The End of an American Dream - Lee "Scratch" Perry
Anniversary - Sly & Robbie and the Taxi Gang
Light Your Light - Toots & The Maytals

Above is the supposed album artwork for what will be 50  Cent's newest release entitled, "Before I Self Destruct."  We also think we have the track listing for the album as well, but it has not been confirmed as of yet, but here is what we got.  We reported earlier that Fitty had stated that there would not be as many featured artist (like on his most recent release, "Curtis").  I expect that there will be more news on 50's upcoming release, so make sure to check back here to get it!  Below is the supposed track listing for "Before I Self Destruct."

Track Listing:

Intro
The Mechanic (Feat. Tony Yayo)
So Serious
You Ain't Crazy (Feat. Reign)
Feel Good (Feat. G-Unit)
Part Time Lover
Smile
5 Heartbeats (Feat. Tony Yayo)
I'm Leavin' (Feat. G-Unit)
What Do You Got
Bottom Girl (Feat. G-Unit)
Don't Wanna Talk About It
Party Ain't Over (Feat. Young Buck)
Girl Come Over (Feat. Nate Dogg)
Wanna Lick (Feat. Lil Kim)
187 (Remix) (Feat. Kartoon)

It has been confirmed now that Kings of Leon will be creating a new album.  There is not much news on the album itself, mainly because it was just recently announced.  No news as to whether the album will drop during 08' or 09'.  Their past release entitled, "Because of the Times" was for sure their best yet, and one of my favorites.  After that album was finished, they decided to start writing more and more songs, which eventually led them to decide to make a fourth album (mainly because they were done with the other album a year before it was supposed to be released.)  Go ahead and check out their past works, if you have never heard of them.  

"Songs for Silverman" would be in my opinion, the second best Ben Folds album.  A few posts back, I wrote a review on his first release, "Rockin' the Suburbs."  So here comes my second review (leading up to his upcoming release).  Out of all the albums (as of yet) that have been released by Mr. Folds, "Songs for Silverman" has been his most successful, reaching number thirteen on the Billboards 200.  Unlike his first release, "Songs for Silverman" is a much more upbeat and happy album.  "Rockin' the Suburbs" is a much darker album mainly due to what was going on in Ben Folds' life.  "Songs for Silverman" is a much happier album, mainly due to his marriage and kids.  Overall, "Songs for Silverman" was a great album, and it has me excited for his upcoming album which is yet to have an album name.

Track Listing:

"Bastard"
"You to Thank"
"Jesusland"
"Landed"
"Gracie"
"Trusted"
"Give Judy My Notice"
"Late"
"Sentimental Guy"
"Time"
"Prison Food"
"Bitches Ain't Shit (Bonus Track)"
"Side of the Road (Japan Bonus Track)"

Ben Folds Cover of "Such Great Heights" Live:

John Mayer & Ben Folds Live:

2007 has came and went, and now we are in early 2008, awaiting news on Nicole's first album. As a music fan, I would like some explanation as to why this album has not dropped yet.  Next to Mario's, "Go!," I have never seen an album have so many different release dates.  Now there is a supposed scheduled release that will hopefully not get changed.  June 23rd, 2008, will hopefully be the day in which Nicole Sherzinger releases her debut album.  

The first single for the album was released back in 2007, so where is the rest of it?  I am almost positive that tons of tracks that were supposed to be on the album were leaked on the web, and so now they are re-recording certain tracks, or changing things up.  That is what I think happened.

Rumored Track Listing:

"Bad Man (Feat. Melody Thornton)"
"Who's Gonna Love You (Feat. Timbaland)"
"Power's Out (Feat. Sting)"
"Puakenikeni (Feat. Brick & Lace)"
"Happily Never After"
"Baby Love (Feat. Will.I.Am)"
"Save Me from Myself(Feat. Ne-Yo Ne-Yo & Amy Lee)"
"Physical (Feat. Timbaland)
"I Luv U (Parham)"
"Just Say Yes"
"Can You Handle This? (Feat. Danja)"
"Whatever U Like (Feat. T.I.)
"I M.I.S.S. You (Feat.Pharrell & Christina Milian)"
"March"
"I Blow (Feat. Busta Rhymes)"
"Willy Bounce (Feat. T-Pain)"
"Get Em Ladies (I'd Hit That) (Feat. Lil' Wayne) (Bonus Track)"
"Hurt So Bad (Bonus Track)"

Looks like a ton of collabs on this one, it will be interesting to see (if it ever comes out) how she works with other artists other then Timbaland.

Three years later, and we have finally gotten word that there will be a new Death Cab for Cutie album coming out May 13th, 2008 (Subject To Change).  Their last release entitled, "Plans" was a huge success, and was my favorite album at the time.   I have known Death Cab for Cutie's music for a long time, thanks to the local used music shop I have stopped into every now and then.  I had picked up all their past works from before "Plans" and really liked what I was listening to.  They have a sweet, mellow, and soft touch to their songs.  If you are someone who has never heard of the band, or likes mellow and calming music, go pick up a copy of "Plans," and see if you can find any of their past musical works.  From what we understand, the album will not follow all of DCFC (Death Cab for Cutie) protocols, and they have been quoted by saying that this album would throw a, "curve ball."  For whatever that may mean, I do not know, but I truly cannot wait for their 2008 release, it is sure to be great!  Check out their other tracks from past works and see how you like them, and if you do, then let us know!

"Narrow Stairs" Supposed Track Listing: (Subject To Change)

"Bixby Canyon Bridge" 
"I Will Possess Your Heart"
"No Sunlight"
"Cath"
"Talking Bird"
"You Can Do Better Than Me (But I Can't Do Better Than You)"
"Grapevine Fires"
"Your New Twin Size Bed"
"The Remainder"
"Pity and Fear"
"The Ice Is Getting Thinner"

NOTE: Intro Track, "Bixby Canyon Bridge" Is Rumored To Be Nine Minutes Long, & The First Single Is Rumored To Be, "I Will Possess Your Heart"

Third time is the charm? Well, Alicia Keys did not need a charm for this one.  "As I Am" was Alicia Key's third studio release, and in my opinion, her best one yet!  I have enjoyed all of her past works, but there was something different about this one.  Even in her music videos for the album, the expressions and looks on Keys face is filled with passion, and meaning, something you do not really see in musicians in todays world.  So what else made this album so great? Unlike her past albums, this one was rather flawless, everything flowed, and the featured artists on the album did a great job working with Keys.  Alicia Keys had two singles come out, "No One" and "Like You'll Never See Me Again."  Each were great listens, although "No One" would have been better if it was not out-played on the radio.  If you are an R&B music fan, or love Alicia Keys, then you will fully enjoy this album, if you have not heard of Alicia Keys or her works, pick up "As I Am" and check it out and give it a listen!

Track Listing:

"As I Am (Intro)"
"Go Ahead"
"Superwoman"
"No One"
"Like You'll Never See Me Again"
"Lesson Learned (Feat. John Mayer)"
"Wreckless Love"
"The Thing About Love"
"Teenage Love Affair"
"I Need You"
"Where Do We Go from Here"
"Prelude to a Kiss"
"Tell You Something (Nana's Reprise)"
"Sure Looks Good to Me"
"Waiting For Your Love (iTunes Bonus Track)"
"Hurt So Bad (iTunes Pre-Order Bonus Track)"

Extra Tracks:

"No One (Remix) (Feat. Kanye West)"
"No One (Remix) (Feat. Lil' Kim)"
"No One (Remix) (Feat. Cassidy & Swizz Beatz)"

"Like You'll Never See Me Again (CDS)"

"Like You'll Never See Me Again (Radio Edit)"

"Like You'll Never See Me Again (Instrumental)"

"Like You'll Never See Me Again (Call Out Hook)"

"No One" & "If I Ain't Got You" Live:

This news won't apply to everyone, as from what I understand, not everyone is a huge fan of Panic at the Disco.  So for those who do like Panic at the Disco, there will be a new album coming out March 25th, 2008.  There has already been a track listing released and confirmed by the band.  I have not heard any of their music as of yet, but for me, it does not really matter (as I did not truly enjoy their first album).  Just to keep you all posted on the upcoming works, hope this helps!  Expect an album review tonight.  Make sure that if you want to be part of the blog's mixtape to send us an email with your remixed song attached...remember, no callouts or shoutouts allowed in the tracks.

"Pretty. Odd." Track Listing:

"We're So Starving"
"Nine in the Afternoon"
"She's a Handsome Woman"
"Do You Know What I'm Seeing?"
"That Green Gentlemen"
"I Have Friends in Holy Spaces"
"Northern Downpour"
"When the Day Met the Night"
"Pas de Cheval"
"The Piano Knows Something I Don't Know"
"Sushi in a Tuxedo in the Clams Casino" ("Behind the Sea" on iTunes and Fueled by Ramen's website)
"Folkin' Around"
"'Snooze Me, Ms. Britches" ("She Had the World" on iTunes and Fueled by Ramen's website)
"From a Mountain in the Middle of the Cabins"
"Mad as Rabbits"

Bonus Tracks:

"Nine in the Afternoon" (Radio mix) (Deluxe Edition bonus track)
"Behind The Sea" (Alternate version) (Deluxe Edition bonus track)
"Do You Know What I'm Seeing?" (Alternate version) (iTunes Pre-order bonus track)

"Nine in the Afternoon" Music Video:

Lil' Wayne's sixth studio album has finally got a set release date, and we have finally got more to tell you on it.  I am personally excited for the album, and from various sources, "Tha Carter III" was the most anticipated album of 2007.  The release date was then changed to this year, March 18th, 2008.  "Tha Carter III" should for sure be amazing, but here is what is going down with the album.  As I am sure most have you seen, there have been tracks floating around the web that are Weezy tracks that are supposedly set for his 2008 release.  Well from what I have gathered, those songs may not be on the album at all, but rather, they will be featured on a mixtape called, "The Leak."  It is an interesting idea by Birdman Jr. and making a mixtape out of those leaked tracks is not a bad idea at all!  

His 2008 album release will for sure be great, and there have been two tracks that have been confirmed.  "Lollipop (Feat. Static)" and "Showtime (Feat. Shanell)" are the two tracks confirmed so far.  Each are produced by Deezle. I look forward to "Tha Carter III" and when we hear more about it, we will be sure to post it up, so check back here later.  In the meantime, check out my favorite song featuring Lil' Wayne below entitled, "Pop Bottles" (it is by Birdman).

Well, back in 2005 (and re-released in 2006), Augustana came out with their hit album, All the Stars and Boulevards.  Now, they are set to make what will hopefully be a second masterpiece release by the Pop/Rock band.  As I was listening to their past album, I figured that something had to be up on the internet by them, so I went searching.  Nothing for a couple of weeks, and then I stumbled upon a YouTube video which has one of the tracks off their upcoming album. The track is called, "Sweet and Low."  Their new album is set for release on May 6th, 2008, and the title is going to be, Can't Love, Can't Hurt.  Posted below is the video with the new track that I found, check it out and let me know what you think!

Guys, you are in for a treat with this Remix of the Week! This is definitely the best remix that we are featuring so far, and I guarantee that you guys will love it. This week's remix is called "This Is Why I'm Bright" by Sully. He remixed the instrumentals, and a little bit of the vocals, from "Mr. Brightside" by The Killers, and the lyrics from "This Is Why I'm Hot" by MIMS. First of all, I love the song Mr. Brightside, and MIMS's song, while it isn't the best, is pretty catchy. The mix of the two songs though is undescribable, you just have to hear it to believe it. I also liked the mix of the two music videos that Sully did. What can I say? Sully is a mixing machine!!! If I knew who he was I'd give him mad props. Enjoy!!!

Video:


Download:
This Is Why I'm Bright

Well, in light of Ben Folds announcing that he will be coming out with a new album, I decided to review one of his more popular releases, Rockin' the Suburbs.  Mr. Fold's killer sophomore release did pretty well, coming in at #42 on the Billboard Charts, and #11 on Internet Download Charts for 2001.  His second album has become one of his most popular releases, and more than likely always will be next to Songs for Silverman.  Overall, a great album, highly advise everyone to check it out and give it a listen!

Track Listing:

"Annie Waits"
"Zak and Sara"
"Still Fighting It"
"Gone"
"Fred Jones, Pt. 2"
"The Ascent of Stan"
"Losing Lisa"
"Carrying Cathy"
"Not the Same"
"Rockin' the Suburbs"
"Fired"
"The Luckiest"
"Hiro's Song (Japanese Bonus Track)"

We reported awhile ago that Akon would be coming out with a third album, so here is the low down on it!  Still no name or release date.  There is a track listing which will be present below. So what to expect on the album...?  Well from what I think is going to happen is that it will be a totally different Akon we see.  One that talks about bettering himself maybe, songs that may be similar to "Sorry, Blame It On Me."  Here is the Track Listing below.

Track Listing: (So Far)

"Come Back 2 Me"
"Could You Be the Reason"
"Hold My Hand (Feat. Michael Jackson)"
"Unforgivable (Feat. Jay-Z)"
"The Other Side"
"Side-Kick"
"Essence"
"Here We Go Again (Feat. Lil Wayne and Wyclef Jean)"
"Redemption"
"Trial of the Century"
"Rapture (Feat. Bono)"

More News Coming When We Find Out!

DJ Mighty Mouse and Cee-Lo are set to stun the music scene again with their upcoming sophomore album entitled, The Odd Couple.  I know that we already reported that the album was going to come, but now we have a set release date for you.  The Odd Couple is set for April 8th, 2008.  By listening to their song called "Run," I have to say I am really excited for the album!  The sounds are very similar to their fresh first release back in 2006, and they are still pumping the same beats as before.  If you want to check out the song "Run," then Click Here and watch the video at the bottom of the post...We will give you guys more news when we hear more!

In April of 2008, Mariah Carey will drop her eleventh album entitled E=MC².  The album looks to be good if it is as good as her first single release entitled, "Touch My Body."  Mariah's past release was great, and personally one of my favorite Mariah Carey albums of all time.  I look forward to her April release, and check below for the verified tracks on the album!

Set Release Dates: (As of Now)

Japan - April 9th, 2008

United Kingdom - April 14th, 2008

United States - April 15th, 2008

Track Listing:

"Lovin' You Long Time"
"Touch My Body"
"That Chick"
"Heat"
"Thanx for Nothin'"
"For the Record"
"4Real 4Real"
"Migrate (Feat. T-Pain)
"Cruise Control (Feat. Damian Marley)"
"Love Story"
"OOC"
"Bye Bye"
"Last Kiss (Feat. Jermaine Dupri)"

As you all know, Nas is coming out with his ninth album this year, but what you did not know is when it is going to drop!  The new release is now set for April 22, 2008.  No word on whether the album's title will change (he has tried using this album name in the past and has then changed it).  Still no new track confirmed..."You a N****r Too" & "The Fear (of the Black Man's Dick)" are still the only ones.

Look at them, smiling, happy, not pregnant...that was life for the Spears sisters before stardom. Just take a minute, and look that how upturned their lives have been ever since hitting the big stage.  Britney is now a crazy person, and her sister, Jamie, is now pregnant.  This post is not focusing on them, but on all the pop stars out there who have been pushed to the limits due to their jobs.  So what makes pop music and actors go to the limits?  It is very simple.  The Media.

The Spears sisters are a perfect example.  Each hit it big...Britney through music, and Jamie through her hit TV Series, Zoe 101.  As both of their careers go on, each start facing problems. Britney is preggers, and now so is Jamie (at the age of 16).  Now each of them made poor decision, but regardless of that, the media has pushed them to their limits.

As I just posted, Michael Jackson has just stopped covering his childrens faces when they are out in public.  What made him do it in the first place?  The media pushing him to the limits in which he could not think straight.  As much as people love to criticize musicians and actors and the things they do in their lives, take a minute and think about why and what happened to them.  I promise you, it will link back to the media.

If those three examples were not enough, look at Owen Wilson.  He tried to kill himself recently.  Why you might ask?  Well how about him being depressed.  Being a superstar does not always mean that you are going to be happy.  The media in a way pushed him there. Sometimes, when you are in a situation like he is, you wish you were not a movie star, but just an average joe, whose personal life and actions were not criticized by others and known by the whole world.

The last example I have to present my case is the now ever so popular Amy Winehouse. Winehouse is a crack addict, and a very troubled person.  She used to be a pretty average person.  No tattoo's, no crack addiction, and now drunk performances.  Now that she has become popular, and a star, reports are all over the place, mainly about her crack addiction.

Pop stars are people too.  All the people above have been pushed to the limit, and have had their lives critiqued and criticized ever since entering the business.  While it is their job to be speculated by the public eye, maybe people should do a bit less of it.  Don't get me wrong, I all of the ones above have made stupid decisions, and not all can be blamed on the media, but imagine how much less, "craziness" there could have been in their lives.

In the words of Farmers HelpPoint Ads, "Sanity makes a comeback."  The King of Pop has maybe loosened that leash he once had on his kids, and is now allowing his children to walk around with out head coverings.  This is a big step up, and hopefully it won't be the last step up Michael takes to bettering his families life.  Look below and look that the drastic change for yourself!

Before:

After:

So my main question is, why now?  What has changed now, that has not before?  Why would Michael Jackson decide to unmask his kids now when he has been doing it for so long!?  Well, I think I have a pretty solid idea as to WHY!  The main reason in my opinion is due to the fact that he has a music release coming up.  Everyone wants there name out there in a positive light (except for O.J. Simpson).  His kids look great, and happy, and I am glad that he made the decision to "unmask" his children.  If you want to read more, or read the article in which I read about this, Click Here (The Sun Online)!

(Coldplay News)

I am sure that most of you are familiar with the ever so popular X&Y album cover from Coldplay's last release.  Well above is what the album art would look like if it said, "Coldplay News."  I found a site in which it allows you to type in text, and it produces the form in which Coldplay had used to create their album art for the 2006 album release.  That, is besides the point (but if you want to check it out, Click Here!)

So, Coldplay's fourth studio release is not going to be like all their past releases.  This one will be much shorter (it is said to be only 42 minutes long).  Also, there will only be nine total tracks.  The list in which these tracks will be chosen from can be seen in this post.  The release date for the album has yet to be confirmed, but from what we know of it could possibly be released May 19th, 2008.  More than likely, it will be released in May or June of 08'

While the album may only feature nine songs, there have been news and speculations that in addition to the nine featured songs on the album, that there would be two separate single releases (of tracks that are not on the album.)  Below are the tracks in which Coldplay will choose from (for their nine track release).

Tracks to Choose From:

"Famous Old Painters"
"Glass of Water"
"Lost!"
"Cemeteries of London"
"Violet Hill"
"Poppy Fields"
"42"
"Yes!"
"Leftrightleftrightleft"
"Rainy Day"
"Prospekt's March"
"Strawberry Swing"
"Lovers in Japan"

(Remember, Only Nine Of These Tracks Will Make It On The Album)

So I did a bit of searching for when Flo Rida's first album would drop, and if they had any album art yet.  Here is what I found, the supposed album art is shown up top.  The date of release for his debut album is March 18th, 2008 (subject to change).  Besides that, I have a track listing for all of you, and a list of tracks that did not make the cut for the album...be sure to check it out!

Track Listing:

"American Superstar (Feat. Lil Wayne)"
"Elevator (Feat. Timbaland)"
"Ack Like You Know"
"Roll (Feat. Sean Kingston)"
"Low (Feat. T-Pain)"
"Priceless (Feat. Birdman)"
"Freaky Deaky (Feat. Trey Songz)"
"Ms. Hangover"
"Money Right (Feat. Rick Ross & Brisco)"
"Me & U"
"Still Missin"
"Don't Know How To Act (Feat. Yung Joc)"
"All My Life"

From the looks of just the track listing, it looks like a pretty solid album.  With all the guests on the track list makes it seem like 50's last release in which he had tons of featured musicians on the album.  I don't think Flo's style is anything like 50's so expect the albums to be put together differently and the artists featured on the album to be used differently.  The only strange part of this album is this.  From what I understand, he had three singles to the album. Hit single, "Low (Feat. T-Pain)," "Elevator (Feat. Timbaland)," and supposedly, "Birthday (Feat. Rick Ross)."  On the track list, "Elevator" is not seen.  The even weirder thing is that I am almost positive it was a single because if you look on Amazon, you can buy the track!  I will show you the album artwork off of Amazon below.  Also, one of the tracks that supposedly did not make the cut on the track listing in which I found was, "Radio."  The same thing as "Birthday" happened with "Radio."  On amazon, you are able to buy the track as well, check it out here!  Maybe "Birthday" and "Radio" will be bonus tracks or hidden tracks on Flo Rida's freshman release?

Extra Tracks:

"Gotta Eat"
"Work (Feat. Sofia Fresh)"
"Radio"
"Jealous"
"Bout' It Girl (Feat. Trina)"
"Birthday (Feat. Rick Ross)"

When we hear more on Flo Rida's new album, we will be sure to post up the info, so check back here later!

For those of you iPod and piano fanatics out there I thought I would bring you a really cool application that you could use. iAno by mister aardvark contains a complete four octave keyboard enabling users to press up to 5 keys at once to create complex chords. This application is currently compatible with firmware version 1.1.3, and is available for download for the iPhone and iPod Touch.

To install iAno on your Apple device, make sure to enter the following URL repository to your Installer.app: "http://modmyifone/installer.xml". The program should then appear under the "Toys" section of the installer.

iAno in Action:


And, for those of you who don't play piano, pocketguitar by kastani is available for your pleasure. This 3rd party application turns your iPhone or iPod Touch into an on-screen guitar enabling you to rock out to your favorite songs.

PocketGuitar is now included in ModMyiFone.com Community Source. Make sure you have the latest "Community Sources" package, and you can find it under "Toys" category.

Sorry about not having Single of the Week this past week, but do not fret, we are back in action. Two weeks ago, "Mr. Pitiful" by Matt Costa won single of the week.  Just like in the first week we did Single of the Week, Matt Costa's single is back up for this weeks top single.  Make sure to cast your vote for your favorite single!

Matt Costa - "Mr. Pitiful"

Kanye West - "Flashing Lights (Feat. Dwele)"

Nelly - "Wadsyaname"

Chris Brown - "Poppin"

The Hives - "Tick Tick Boom"

Voting Ends On Friday, So Be Sure To Cast Your Vote For Single of the Week!!!