IS THE MUSIC INDUSTRY DEVIDED BY RACE?

Ciara, Kelly Rowland and Justin Timberlake. These artists are among the very best of their generation; each dominating a completely different genre of music. However, they all have one thing in common: the inability to successfully branch out beyond the confines of their primary music markets and into different genres. It seems that unlike international territories, the US music industry remains segregated; governed by unspoken rules regarding race and ethnicity; refusing to allow artists to explore new sounds that do not match established audience perceptions of what they acts “should” be performing.

Indeed, the US music scene remains intent on suppressing the talents of artists; stuffing them into box marked by various stereotypes. For instance, when Ciara first emerged on the charts in 20o4, she was hailed as one of the hottest newcomers in R&B, partially filling the void that was left by the late Aaliyah. From her Hip-Hop-inspired sound to her full-fledged Urban appeal, she easily dominated the R&B charts for most of that year. Yet, Ciara found herself on the receiving end of severe criticism when she indulged in Pop/Dance music on her ‘Fantasy Ride’ LP, with several US critics and DJ’s claiming that she had abandoned her Urban audience in an effort to to appeal to a more “white” following.

Kelly Rowland has encountered a similar backlash in recent years as well. Despite struggling to score a hit after her initial solo smash, ‘Dilemma‘, Rowland seems to have finally found her niche with her new Dance-oriented sound; amassing incredible success in the UK, Europe and Australia. Nevertheless, such triumphs were not reflected in the US, where her 2009 hit, ‘When Love Takes Over’, only peaked at #76 on the Billboard Hot 100. Like Ciara, many of individuals in the US refused to acknowledge her artistic growth and criticised Rowland for abandoning her Urban roots.

Nonetheless, these pressures are not only encountered on the charts. Justin Timberlake had several incredible accomplishments across all formats, especially with his TI-assisted hit, ‘My Love’. However, his music was blatantly ignored by his own peers at the Grammy Awards where they refused to nominate his straightforward Urban recordings in any of the R&B categories; an occurrence many attribute to the colour of his skin.

So, while many many aspects of life in the US are slowly being liberated, the music industry remains an area of tension and unfair categorisation. In light of new reports that even Jennifer Hudson is being forced by industry pundits to rework the Euro-dance sound of her upcoming album and stick to her R&B roots, it is clear that full artistic freedom continues to be subjected to underlying pressures involving race and ethnicity. However, with Rihanna and Beyonce managing to successfully branch out and evade such conflict, there may yet be hope for other acts as well.
[this info was taken from the grape juice webpage]

Jennifer Rush "Echoes Love" 2010

Jennifer Rush "Echoes Love" 2010

American-born/German-based vocalist and songwriter Jennifer Rush released her first studio album in over a decade ago. She is best-known for her 1985 hit 'The Power of Love', which was later covered by Celine Dion.

I feel that Jennifer is not getting enough airplay the she deserves, her single came out early this year in March. But haven’t heard it in any radio charts, the only radio station the plays her music is Algoa fm (eastern cape based radio station).

Jennifer has not had the success she deserves and most people think she is a one hit wonder with her massive hit "Power of Love" in the 80's. This cannot be further from the truth as she has had a very good career in continental Europe, especially Germany. The majority of Jennifer’s albums since the 80's have been very good but not really mainstream pop and people either liked it or thought it was average.

However, despite a decade passing this new album sounds richer and has many enjoyable tracks. People may think that Jennifer is trying to match the standard of "Power Of Love" but she never tried to do so. The new album is a new sound and is much more modern than any of her previous music and I hope it will be received well by the public and critics alike. It’s taken a long time, but Jennifer has finally moved on from previous sounds and songs and this new style suits her very well.

The album is called “Now is the hour”; it’s got 15 tracks including the hit single-ECHOES LOVE. Which in my opinion is the catchiest song she has ever done and so far it’s my favourite song for 2010. I’d say "Echoes Love" is the diamond in this album.

I wish her every success with this new venture.

IS THE MUSIC INDUSTRY IS DEVIDED BY RACE???

WSU produces winning artists

Litha ncukazi at work:

Rising to the top at a very young age, Litha Ncukazi who’s an Artist is an example to Eastern Cape’s youth and has got a tru.fm youth award under his belt.




Litha Ncukazi studied Fine Art at WSU and now is one of the lectures at the university; lecturing the same subject he studied Fine Art. He has been lecturing for seven months now.



He also got his own business on the other side Versatile Art cc. this is what this young man has been hoping to achieve ever since he was a young boy.



“I had a dream that one day I would become a better person” he said.



Litha grew up knowing that he wanted to do art though the environment he grew up in was not full of opportunities, but it gave him an understanding that he can be a better than what he was offered.



“My dreams are not based no my background” he said.



Litha knew that he wanted to become an entrepreneur, but the time he started his business he had no financial capital, he only had a vision and a dram.



No financial institution was willing to help him financially and his business plan has not been reviewed by any bank. The business grew through exhibiting in art galleries and supported by Eastern Cape Tourism and National Pavilions.



Litha defines himself as an opportunistic person and purpose driven person. He always tries to look at things on a positive side, also likes seeing the youth achieving their goals and dreams.



“I respect any artist that is able to touch other people’s lives through art and is able to make a change constructively” said litha.



Litha is also part of youth development programs, he takes part in youth development initiative by Burning Bush Ministries where they empower youth to be the best they can be in every aspect of their life and teach how to make informed choices in life, instill the notion of success and excellence.



He has also won a tu.fm youth award and transforming Africa young entrepreneur youth award and has also been visited by youth television show, that showcases youth talent, it plays on sabc. 01.



Litha also feels that there’s still much work to be done in terms of motivating the youth, the young people need to come on board and take control and absorb every opportunity that Eastern Cape has to offer.



“Youth needs to learn to be decisive not to be easily persuaded by other people’s opinion, not to be gullible and stick to their own goals and dreams” he said.



Lecturing was also part of Litha’s hopes and dreams, because at the sametime while lecturing he gets to deal with youth and that gives an opportunity to encourage them and coach them how to succeed in life and achieve their dreams.



He encourages the youth to stay away from dugs and alcohol and live a God fearing life.

Kelly Rowland Wants YOUR Help…

kelly rowland

Pop diva Kelly Rowland is calling on YOU for help naming her third studio album. The Destiny’s Child alumni initially opted for a self-titled record "KELLY ROWLAND", however after gauging the not-to-positiveresponse to this, has thrown it out to the public for suggestions.

Hence, you can now submit ideas on Rowland’s official website.
which is...(http://kellyrowland.com/)

you can follow me on....

JAMALI WISH MADIBA A HAPPY B-DAY

jamali

Madiba is the greatest. We love and adore him very much. Happy Birthday Madiba, We wish you many more birthdays to come"- love Jaqui, Mariechan and Liesl from Jamali

What's new Pussycat? Nicole Scherzinger is joined by four new members as PCD unveils a brand new line-up

All brand new: The new look Pussycat Dolls, from left to right, Kherington Payne, Vanessa Curry,NicoleScherzinger, Jamie Lee Ruiz and Rino Nakasone-Razalan

The four new members are Kherington Payne from So You Think You Can Dance, former LA 'Lakers Girl' cheerleader Vanessa Curry, Rino Nakasone-Razalan, a former member of America's Best Dance Crunners-up Beat Freaks, and former Girlicious member Jamie Lee Ruiz.

The new line-up performed their debut concert last Friday at a private party in Los Angeles.

Pussycat Dolls founder Robin Antin unveiled a photo of the revamped band on her Twitter page, along with a post which read: 'Last Night was perfection! NicoleScherzy was so incredible, sang her heart out! & DOLLS, you KILLED IT! Congrats!!!!'

As they were: The Pussycat Dolls in their original form - Nicole Scherzinger, centre, remains the only member from the first line-up

In January, Jessica Sutta left the Dolls to pursue a solo career, and Kimberly Wyatt and Ashley Roberts announced their departure in March.




Choreographer Robin previously revealed she was going to completely overhaul the Pussycat Dolls.

She said: 'The brand is about female empowerment. Inside every woman is a Pussycat Doll waiting to get out. There are millions of women out there who want to know what it feels like. I want to bring in new faces.'

Some of the new members have tasted fame before.

Kherington starred in the remake of Fame and appeared in an episode of Glee, Rino was part of the dance troupe the Harajuku Girls who toured with Gwen Stefani, while Jamie Lee was a contestant on Robin's TV show The Pussycat Dolls Present: Girlicious, which was looking for members for a new pop band.

The Pussycat Dolls are now preparing to head into the studio to record an album.

In March, as Scherzinger was prepping for her turn on Dancing With the Stars, she spoke to MTV News to discuss the group's new lineup.

She said: '[The change is] kind of inevitable, right?

'When it comes to girl groups, I think we did the best that we could for a good chunk of time. We had an amazing time, and then people change and people grow, and sometimes things aren't right for them.

'We're all artists — just go and be creative. I love the PCD. It's been a blessing for me. I don't take it for granted, so I can't wait to do more music.'





Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/











 

change of plans

Peep Kelly Rowland posing it up for SWRV Music Choice recently. As ever, the Grammy winner looks stunning!

Reiterating our previous report; the release of her hotly anticipated new album has been re-scheduled. Initially set for a September release, Rowland confirmed that the LP – her 3rd – will instead be arriving in stores ‘this Fall’, as she’s still recording with hitmaker Tricky Stewart. There’s also some talk about the album no longer being self-titled. So, as you can see, much going on in the world of Ms. Rowland.



Meanwhile, the album’s lead US single, ‘Grown Woman’, is poised to be a smash – if its ever-rising Urban airplay is anything to go by. Go Kelly! (info taken from our friends of "that grape juice")

self titled upcoming album "kelly rowland"

kelly rowland who is set to release her fourth studio album this year in september is busy promoting her current two singles:




1. commander ft david guetta, the song reached nimber one in U.K top 100 , number one in dance tunes of the billboard and imillion views on youtube within the fisrt week of itd release

2.grwon ass women, her latest release on america for her rnb lovers. her fans are loving the song and are happy that she did not neglect her rnb side
-grown women is truly a hit for kelly
-the album titled "kelly rowland is due to come out in sept

everyone is looking forwad to md.kelly comeback album...goodluck ms.kelly

ONE HIT WONDERS

They only did it once, but one time was the charm. i'm looking for the following people who came and left so soon....their songs were on everybodys slips and they were chart toppers both in U.S and U.K. i wonder where they are?? anyway here's the top 21 i can think off. . .

1. It Feels So Good by Sonique
2. Because I Got High by Afroman
3. Never Leave You by  Lumidee
4. Lose Control by Fatman Scoop
5. Here We Go ft Kelly Rowland by Trina
6. What I've Been Looking For by  Ashley Tisdale
7. You're Beautiful by James Blunt
8. Stars Are Blind by Paris Hilton
9. Go Too Far ft Melody Thorne by Jibbs
10. Wait for You by Elliott Yamin
11.Whine Up by Kat DeLuna
12. Superstar by Lupe Fiasco
13. Mercy by Duffy
14. Crush by David Archuleta
15. Paper Planes by M.I.A
16. American Boy by Estelle
17. Chasing Pavements by Adele
18. Day 'n' Nite by Kid Cudi
19.  Goodbye by Kristinia DeBarge
20. Never Leave You ft Amelle by Tinchy Stryder
21. New York by Paloma Faith

have your say, what do you think about the list and give me someone whos not in the list........and
-who do you really miss?
-Which do you think is the greatest one hit wonder of all-time?

FJP AWARDS 2010

By Sungeni Chithambo



ANELE - The Mother Hen award for being the best, protective and approachable FJP coordinator we could ask for



ZINHLE - The Fashionista award for being up to date with the latest trends, having the best fashion blog out there and rocking all her black outfits



MINA - The Networker award for networking with anyone and everyone and never hesitating to approach media professionals



LEBOGANG - The Twitterholic award, for always being glued to ur phone and tweeting about anything and everything. I think he also deserves an award for being the only one to enjoy Absa's pink unrolled lamb, and who could forget that hyena laugh?



ASANDA - The LOL award, for spreading her dimpled laughter everywhere she goes :)



POLLIE - The Photogenic award, for never failing to look good in any pic no matter how bad the rest of us look!



MALUSI - The Cool Dude award, for being cool, calm and collected in every situation, except when he seriously wanted to win an MTN hamper and wouldn't stop jumping up and down till he got it!



SIHLE - The Cuckoo! Award for being the craziest, loudest member of our group - never failing to wake up anyone in our corridor and sleeping with his door open on one occasion.



SINDY - The Jiva sexy award, coz she can dance and she knows it! And for showing us that she is not such a quiet chil after all



LUSIZO - The 'I'd rather talk with my eyes award' for using his face to show expression rather than his voice!



JENNY - The 'I don't know the exit but I know where the toilet is!' award, for never failing to find the ladies room no matter where she is



PHUMLANI - The Vuvuzela award for blowing his vuvuzela the loudest at the Uruguay vs. Holland game, and spreading his hype everywhere



AUBREY - The MIA (Missing In Action)for always pulling a dissapearing act, but making up for it with his huge, friendly smile.



ANORTH - The In-focus award for being serious about his journey to becoming an Ombudsman. Let us also not forget the day he got left behind because he fell asleep on his chair!



JUNIOR - The Entertainment award for always cracking us up with his hilarious stories. We sure will miss those. And for being the star of the dance contest even though you didn't win.



VENOLIA - The I'm shy! I'm shy! award for being too too quiet. So tell us girl, are you shy or just quiet?

the final day

Day three of the conference started really for me, I had nice time having breakfast with the guys. Though it was nice being with them, I knew at the back of my mind that it is the last time I’m being with them, sad hey.

Nevertheless is was a great experience for me. I learned a lot of things from each and everyone that I met here. It was nice finding out how other people think and how they view things and also share ideas on how to tackle certain issues when you are in the industry be in the industry.

I have learned a lot how to speak professionally with people and FJP has helped me to boost my confidence in socializing, I’ve seen my mistakes and there’s room for improvement in everything. I am with the contacts that I have made during this conference. I will keep in touch with them, as I want them to help me with my career. And I wont lie they were keen on working with me and also helping me get the internship I need.

The highlight of this whole experience is when I met Luks Gidane from Umhlobo Wene FM last night, I must say it was a great platform to meet new people. The other journalism students are really nice, they know what they want and are willing to listen to other people’s ideas. We’ve made friends with each other and its going to be really sad when we leave tomorrow. I so wish we could really come back in September hey.

Today’s sessions were really informative, I really enjoyed them. I could say the topics that really caught my attention is the talk about the use of social networking sites as a tool to inform the people about things happening around the world (breaking news such as the earth quake in Haiti). I really think we should utilise social networking sites and blogs as a way of communication and when I go back to my community and institution I will promote the importance of blogs and social networking sites and that they should engage themselves in social networking activities.

Highway Africa has been an amazing experience I will never forget anyone I met here and I’m great full for the opportunity I got to attend this function. I thoghroughly enjoyed myself. Big ups to Highway Africa and the team.

My first of highway Africa

The first day of the conference was interesting; I met up with the other students that are in the FJP programme. They are all nice and friendly people. We attended two sessions, the first session was really interesting, they spoke about interesting issues such as, the impact of media in Africa, the effects of economic melt down and how the media covered it and the quality of news produced in Africa. The main issue was that, does Africa have journalists that will promote the continent and write good news stories rather than on focusing on stories that reflect a bad image about the continent. Also and how the world cup stories are being covered, the foreign media sensationalising and trying to put Africa on the bad light. They also stated that African media is still dominated by western view of what is news.

I can say Highway Africa is trying to establish and promote press and broadcast freedom in the African content, HWA is equipping and informing the new generation of journalists to be more interested into news that promote the good image of the continent. Also try to come up with our own methods of managing and controlling newsrooms and news content, meaning that media should take hold of its self so that through out the whole of Africa quality news are published. I believe with this programme good quality journalists will be produced and better news quality will be published.

This programme will also help me be a better journalist, be the type of journalist or watchdog that Africa expects me to be. It will also help to equip myself into writing what is news worthy and high light aspects in the African continent which in some way promote the image of the continent and how it operates. I will also get a chance to express myself. The highway Africa programme is offering many opportunities for me and the rest of the journalism students. I’m given a chance to network with people that are already in the field and they will help me in getting into the field of journalism. I’m also gaining knowledge from people that already have experience in the field.

This will help me to boost my confidence in socialising skill with people and also being given an opportunity into expressing my views about current political and social issues in the country and the rest of the continent. This programme will also help to broaden my knowledge about things that I may not know. It is my duty as a journalist in training to go back to my institution and my community to report and practise what I have and will learn from this conference. Let them know about issues that really matter and try and work with my community into publishing news that are off high quality and are uplifting. We as journalist we should not always focus on news that are negative and we should strive to get the news out to the public no matter what, using any form of communication, it may be a blog, radio station, your twitter page, etc.

Funky KC from UKZN

This morning while we were attending the captivate workshop I was in a fortunate position being put in the same group with Kathleen Cerilean Freer, her friends call her “KC” those being her initials. KC was born in KwaZulu Natal at Empangeni, that’s where she did her primary and high school. After finishing metric in 2009 KC took a gap year, during that year KC did short courses just to keep her self busy, she studied: cookery, photography, marketing and public relations. Then in September she was finished with her short course and managed her father’s restaurant.

At the moment KC is doing her first year in Drama and Performance studies at the University of KwaZulu Natal (UKZN). She also works for the varsity paper called NUXs the paper was established in 1934, making the oldest varsity paper in South Africa. KC joined NUXs earlier this year, where she wrietes articles and also a photographer. She’s interested in film making, she would love to make music video for City Bowlmizer which is a rock band from Durban.

KC loves science fiction movies, portraiture photographs and making films. He also likes travelling and when she’s travelling she makes short films/videos. She likes hiking and gaming. She also has interest in SA politics.

KC is part of the captivative workshop, she arrived here in graham’s town on Sunday. There are about nine of them here from UKZN attending the conference, she came here through a friend. What she likes most about being here is meeting new people that are already in the field and other fellow students and get to know them, how they think and getting different perspective and angles in dealing with certain issues. “I enjoyed the captivative workshop, where we were showed the what is democracy documentary. Making films and documentary is what I’m interested in” said KC.