Soul Reincarnated

Review by DJ Phaze

The first time I listened to Facts of Life/ The Soul of Bobby Womack, the new album from crooner Calvin Richardson, I was preparing to crack the album at a listening party hosted by Gypsy Soul in Baltimore. As a result of the title, I did my research and was compelled to compare each rendition to the original. It may have been unfair to do, but it gives me perspective, especially when artists choose to cover prior works.

I must say Calvin did a good job paying homage to Soul Man, Bobby Womack. The production of Richardson’s latest works was well done. Overall, if you are not familiar with the original works recorded by Bobby, you can certainly still get the feel of your parents spinning records in the basement. The “new school” version certainly has an appeal to a specific audience.

During a Gypsy Soul Sound Check Session (what you would call a listening party), I noticed when playing it for an audience mostly of my age-mates, it was quite obvious that across the board they had the collective facial expression as if they we were listening to a lecture on Shakespearean works, and earnestly trying to relate to what they were hearing. It was quite clear that most of the crowd was not familiar with Bobby Womack and his arsenal of hits.

The women tended to have a more open mind and you could tell who had old soul ears. Their heads were rocking rhythmically to songs like “You’re Welcome, Stop on By” and the undeniable crowd favorite “Daylight”. The men seem to be looking to the women for cues as to how good the album was as the songs were presented. All in all, the more upbeat groovy songs like “I Can’t Understand It” had more appeal to the audience present. Personally, the appearance of Ann Nesby on “Love has Finally Come At Last” was quite refreshing and is a great duet! Can you guess who did the original with Bobby?

In short, Calvin kept the attention of listeners with the energy of the songs and his voice matched the studio-recorded instrumentation well. I am sure the new-schoolers appreciate the “clean” sound of Calvin’s Facts of Life/ The Soul of Bobby Womack. This clean sound coupled with Calvin’s crisp vocals did not match the “Soul of Bobby Womack”. Calvin’s voice is almost identical to Bobby’s with regard to tone and octave range but there is a signature throaty raspy hint to Womack’s voice most evident is songs like “American Dream”, and probably his best known “If You Think You’re Lonely Now” which justifiably, can’t be duplicated.

Calvin Richardson certainly put his stamp on the Womack hits. I’m looking forward to hearing him perform live. Maybe the gritty soul will shine through in a live setting. Hearing this album should certainly prompt listeners to get more familiar with the originals by the great Bobby Womack. If you get Calvin Richardson’s Facts of Life/ The Soul of Bobby Womack you may just catch yourself seeking out the Womack collection… Here’s an opportunity to raise your aural IQ quite a few points.

Read more »

Steal This Sh*t...We Dare You!

I waited eagerly in March of this year to see Raphael Saadiq perform at Rams Head Live. Anyone who knows me knows that he is probably the only artist I have the possibility of becoming unprofessional for! As I waited to see Raphael for the first time live these three very energetic and entertaining performers hit the stage, I found out later that the group was Tha Boogie.

This group had the audience mezmorized from the moment they took the stage. With confidence they performed, danced, sung, and engaged us. All we could do was stare only because we didnt know the words to their songs and couldnt sing along!

Since then Gypsy Soul has been enamored with the trio and included them in the 2nd volume of our mix tape series The Ear Candy Chronicles featuring their song "Best Around" hoping to get our audience familiar with their innovative sound.

Recently Tha Boogie released their highly-anticipated debut EP Love Tha Boogie Vol. 1 (Steal This Sh*t), which is now available for download on iTunes for only $3.99. Dont let the price fool you, this is some good music that is certainly pocket friendly and a smart way to get aquainted with the artistry soon to come so open you mind and get ready to expand your sonic sensativity. I dug the entire EP but my favorties invlude "Best Around" "I'm Peter Parker" and "Running Running". Unfortunatly my favorite track by Tha Boogie "Lown Lay" didnt make the EP but Im waiting to see what project it will show up on. "Lown Lay" is certainly on my iPod wishlist.

Just so you know, THA BOOGIE is a Pop/Experimental/Alternative Soul band who hails from Rancho Cucamonga, California. The trio, who is recently signed to Raphael Saadiq’s label (who the hell know music and potential better than Ray Ray???), Velma Records, writes, produces, records and arranges their own music.

Who is Tha Boogie?

NUSCHOOL: Singer/Songwriter/Rapper/Vocal Producer and Arranger
KORUS: Singer/songwriter (the first lady of the group)
LEJIN: Singer/ Music Producer/Arranger

Get to know them better:
www.myspace.com/thaboogie
www.twitter.com/thaboogie
http://www.lovethaboogie.blogspot.com/

Read more »

GYPSY SOUL IS LOOKING FOR INTERNS!

 We are looking to add to our rebelliously beautiful crew…

Are you or someone you know interested in public relations, event planning, promotions, graphic design, marketing, or have a passion for good music? Gypsy Soul is currently seeking resourceful, imaginative, and hardworking individuals to be join our crew as interns. 

We are seeking those who possess a zeal for music merged with keen

communication skills and frequent Facebook, Myspace, & twitter. 

Gypsy Soul works with Grammy-award winning artist PJ Morton, Powerhouse vocalist Purple St. James better known as YahZarah and a number of national independent & mainstream artists as well as many alternative media sources, entertainment companies, and more. We have a strong presence in Baltimore and a growing reputation around the country as an advocate for talented yet underrepresented artists. 

If interested, you must reside in the Baltimore/DC area. Though not required, reliable transportation is strongly favored.

Please email your resume, cover letter, & any supporting materials to:

info@gypsysoul.info  

Read more »

Beware of Gods'illa - The DMV's Best Kept Secret

"I do it for love, and they do it for dough...rhyme like a clock with no hands, straight timeless." With these lines spoken through the speakers you know that you're in for something different when you play any of Gods'illa tracks. But before I get ahead of myself let me give you some background on the group that is sure to be crowned the DMV's best kept secret.

Gods'illa is more than a group, it's a movement of great minds that concentrate on keeping the music rooted in reality. The group consists of three physical brothers, Ace, 7-1-20, and Powerful, with them all hailing from PG County, MD and Brooklyn, NY respectively. They are fresh from placing first in the July 2009 MTV VMA Breakout DC Competition. Many of you may be familiar with the brothers and their clothing company Up and Up Fashions that was started in 1998, and those of you that know them know Up and Up stretched way beyond clothes. And just like the clothing company, the music they put out breaks the barriers of any box that you may try to limit them to with the group members collectively labeling their sound as "universal." Their debut is being primed for release on independent label Unlimited Vinyl Ink very soon, but before they present their first offering they have given real headphone junkies something they'll crave in the form of The Pre-Lease. I would give you a hip-hop group to compare them to, but in all honesty it would be quite disrespectful to do so. 

The lyrics, beats and production on the Pre-Lease take me back to when I was a kid stealing cassette tapes from my older cousin. He would 

constantly try to tell me what "real" hip-hop was and he consistently introduced my ears to music that was clearly distinguishable from the garbage he said was being played on the radio. Groups like Black Moon, Brand Nubian, and The Native Tongues were just a few that I can think of, and some of the ones that Gods'illa reminds of. And I say reminiscent in a way that makes you recall a time when lyrics had depth and albums consisted of cohesive tracks that didn't sway to far in either arena of gangsta or backpack rap, but found that sometimes unattainable balance that allows you to just enjoy good music and nod your head along to entire album without skipping past any songs. 

I know for myself I've grown tired of recent hip-hop music

 that has been put out, and refuse to buy any new CDs. But after giving a listen to Gods'illa's Pre-Lease which is a compilation of 7 tracks that didn't make the cut for the group's debut, I can say that I'll be back to purchasing at least one new CD in the near future. Because if these were the ones that didnt make it, you gotta know its nothing but quality coming later. 

One of my favorite cuts is, "Got Ya'll," where the varying styles manage to balance each other out, and youngest member Powerful closes it out strong, displaying his lyrical prowess that would dare you to label him a rookie. Another one is, "Power Cypha," which gives you the feel of a posse cut of all your favorite emcees that you been waiting for to all get on the same joint. Last but not least is "Up and Up Presents...Gods'illa," which is a bunch of snippets put together with the first snippet asking, "Who is Gods'illa?" And if you don't know then you need to get familiar. I could go on about the tracks but you need to review it for yourself. 

So go and download your copy of the Pre-Lease and be sure to cop their debut when it drops. And if you don't think that Gods'illa is one of the freshest things to happen in hip-hop, then you need to ask yourself if you are really a fan of the genre...just food for thought. 

Track List

1. Intro (Truth Unleashed)

2. Got Ya'll

3. Should Know Better ft. Uno

4. Power Cypha ft. Faro-Z and Substantial

5. I'm Here ft. Substantial and Kokayi

6. Feel ft. DuaneFace

7. Up and Up Presents...Gods'illa

Read more »

Music Fan First -Eric Roberson

Tomorrow [Aug 25] Eric Roberson will officially drop his much anticipated album - Music Fan First!

Gypsy Soul was blessed with the exclusiveness as Eric Roberson sent over the track, "The Power that Kisses Hold", for the Ear Candy Chronicles Vol 2. Its a sweet track to groove to as he sings about how men are the hunters and women are the hunted, "in the beginning we chase them and make them feel wanted, but now that we got them and ain't trying to let them go, we discover the power that kisses hold". The song reflects on enjoying the moment that you have instead of trying to race against time.


With an album chock full with 17 tracks, including a bonus song, listeners can expect to hear a different side of Eric Roberson with every track. He offers a smooth ballad with "Further", a song in which he demonstrates his range and passion on this track as he falsettos and shows his range as he pleas with his woman to "please take this further, give it another try". A touching song, that makes it hard not to want to give him the go-on ahead to make things work out!






He then switches it up once again with his track, "I Wanna Believe it Again". A funky song in which he croons over the possibility of giving an ex a 2nd chance after she turned her back on what they had. Listeners can definitely relate to the tug of war feeling that comes with facing the issue of whether or not to rekindle an old flame!










Music Fan First, drops tomorrow and is definitely a MUST have for music lovers who appreciate musical versatility and of course, love Responsible Music. Don't be the last to get it!!

Order Here!!!

Read more »

Ear Candy featuring Alison Carney and Chester Gregory

Thursday night, while Redskins and Ravens fans packed downtown Baltimore for the preseason game, music fans made their way through the traffic to Teavolve as Gypsy Soul dished up a 2-for-1 lineup of Alison Carney and Chester Gregory!

Alison led off the night, singing in her light, flirtatious voice against her guitarist and bass player. A classically trained songstress, Alison has been blessed with the talent of the pen and vocals and has written and performed on 2 studio albums. She has also had the opportunity to tour throughout Asia and perform with Dwele, Slum Village and Raheem DeVaughn.


She graced Ear Candy fans with her cover of "Prototype" and her own song, "You Said", which is also featured on the Ear Candy Chronicles Mixtape Vol 2


Chester Gregory had a tough act to follow, but seemed to manage and he took his experience from Broadway and brought it to Teavolve! Chester Gregory is an award winning singer/songwriter/performer. He is carving his own niche in the R&B/Soul male vocalist category. This singer has received rave reviews from everyone in the industry from Phill Collins to Isaac Hayes. Even received a standing ovation from the King of Pop himself, Michael Jackson.

For his upcoming album titled, “In Search of High Love,” he is collaborating with innovators Afta-1, Nevi-Nev and J Most. He has also worked with Grammy Award winning producers Dave Tozer (John Legend & Kanye West) and PJ Morton (India.Arie).



He is currently receiving rave reviews for his CD which is what he gave the audience of Ear Candy a preview of. At Teavolve he didn't let the faux stage be his limitation as he interacted with the audience and literally sang in their faces! Case in point - as he sang "Sleepy" (a song where he asks his woman, why is she ALWAYS so sleepy when gets home?!) an eager fan pointed at his woman, putting her on blast as though Chester had purposely had this song for them! So helping his fellow brethren out, Chester got in her face and sang "Why you always soooo sleeeeeepppyyyy???" LoL









Among other tunes Chester also belted out "Only Have Eyes" and to my surprise, Chester was ready to leave without singing my favorite song of his, "If U only". Never having putting a face to the singer on the song, "If U Only" was stuck in my head all day and I just NEEDED to hear him perform it live! And thanks to good ol' DJ Phaze, my wish was granted! And just to make it a little more sweet, they broke out the remix! Yep, my night was made!

Photos by Daria Johnson

Read more »

Sonic Superhero

The musical stage has been in need of some serious saving. From lyrics that make no sense and messages that promote harm and hurt in the community to performers who cant ummm PERFORM and have no LIVE vocal abilities. The intimate, live music scene has fallen and been trying to get up.

The revival of the modern Chitlin Circuit formed by entities such as Gypsy Soul, On The Verge, Muddy Waters, Briclyn Entertainment, Nu-Soul, Neo Soul Café, MN8, Shine On Me & more has transformed talented artists into present day superheroes doing their part to rescue the stage from musical wackness.

Ms. Purple St. James aka Yahzarah came to save the day this Tuesday at R&B Live in DC. Those who have been lucky enough to have their musical pallet cleansed by the dope shows that have been generously provided by Purple feel refreshed, reinvigorated, and enamored by music all over again!

Tuesday was no different; the show began with Yahzarah atop a table singing “Baby Love” over Prince’s “Lets Go Crazy”. From the table to the stage with three beautiful back ground singers and a rockin band she performed “Legends” a song from her upcoming album The Ballad Of Ms. Purple St. James. She performed "I Came I Saw I Conquered" but the next two truly memorable moments came at the last two songs “Fast Lane” and “Starship”.

With “Fast Lane” the audience was taken for a super sexy, high speed musical journey that included clapping, gawking, and standing ovations. Ms. Purple WORKED the stage and her body doing movements that are so indescribable it left people with their mouths open, women standing in the audience shouting “You better get it!” By the end I think everyone was either breathing hard or out of breath from just watching the incredible performance…hell yeah!

The last song of the night was “Star Ship” another offering from the upcoming album. After the intense, almost orgasmic performance with “Fast Lane” she slowed it down giving R&B Live something to not only relax the heart but relate to the heart. Though more slow paced, the song displayed Yahzarah’s vocal discipline, giving a range of notes that weren’t just sung but felt. At the end of the song she gave up the mic and as she walked off the stage and into the crowd she continued to sing, the audience clapping in time to the beat. Reminiscent of being in a sanctuary, that moment as she came into the crowd it felt as if everyone was on one accord, a peaceful atmosphere had taken over.

Ms. Purple St. James had restored balance to the universe and immediately after the show the room was quiet as the audience reflected on the musical intervention that had just taken place in their lives.

The intense range of emotions that Yahzarah invoked is what GOOD music is supposed to be about. Fire, anticipation, love, triumph, peace, confidence, excitement, community, connections…the list goes on and on and our emotions were given a total work out.

If your live musical experiences are in a rut and are in need of a soul revival my suggestion is that you seek out a musical super hero, preferably, Yahzarah aka Ms. Purple St. James to come to your salvation.

Check her out at: www.myspace.com/yahzarah or look her up on Facebook and join the fan page asap!

Photos courtesy of Edith Williams & Diamond Digital Portraits

Read more »

Melanie Fiona and The Bridge

I gotta say I saw her for the first time on MTVJams as her music video for single Give It To Me Right was playing and thought she had a powerful voice, something different than what you normally hear from today's female performers. Didn't think much else until a friend told me to download her mixtape which she collaborated on with none other than The Roots'

?uestlove. What was produced are live loungey feeling acoustic versions of album cuts and covers. If ever anything was titled a jam session this would be it with a live sound being incorporated into every track. The mixtape even goes a step further with ?uestlove and Melanie Fiona doing interview segments in between each track which allows you to get to know the artist more intimately and hear her speak of some of her musical background and experiences.

Listening to the mixtape what I found was an artist who effortlessly covered recent hits such as Kanye West's

Heartless, and her own Ay Yo, but also a classic such as Monday Morning. Her interpretations of these songs may lead you to forget who the original versions were performed by or what they sounded like.

I did a little more digging after giving this mixtape a solid listen and found that critics unanimously feel she has a track record of producing music that blends genres such as pop and soul in a way that captivates her listener, and forces you to recognize her singing ability and credit her with a distinct and talented voice.

It's refreshing to find and hear an artist who not only believes that their music is a direct reflection of them, but you feel it in the words sung by them. She has been quoted as saying, "Putting out my first project will be an experience that will never happen again...I'll never be a new artist again." You feel that she has one shot at a solid first impression of her music. Her debut is titled The Bridge because it "crosses the barriers between ethnicities, genres, age groups, and genders. It can't be defined as one thing. It's got a soul that's something old, yet something new." If you want a preview of what this young lady has to offer until her debut hits stores download her mixtape Melanie Fiona meets the Illadelphonics. You won't be disappointed.

The Track List

1. Give It To Me Right (ILLADELPHONICS Live Remix)
2. Melanie Fiona & ?uestlove Part 1
3. Ay Yo (ILLADELPHONICS Live Remix)
4. Melanie Fiona & ?uestlove Part 2
5. Heartless (ILLADELPHONICS Live Remix)
6. Melanie Fiona & ?uestlove Part 3
7. Monday Morning (ILLADELPHONICS Live Remix)
8. Melanie Fiona & ?uestlove Part 4
9. Somebody Come Get Me (ILLADELPHONICS Live Remix)
10. Melanie Fiona & ?uestlove Part 5
11. Cupid (ILLADELPHONICS Live Remix)
12. Melanie Fiona Medley by ?uestlove

Read more »

REVIVED-The Summer Spirit Festival

**ANTICIPATION**

Last Saturday CD Enterprises granted exclusive Summer Spirit Festival access to Gypsy Soul. The line up was very thoughtful and touched a wide range of styles in the soul music spectrum. The line up included The Foreign Exchange featuring Darien Brockington and Yahzarah, Chrisette Michelle, Chuck Brown, Raphael Saadiq, & Erykah Badu. Comedy also was woven into the night with Tigger and Mike Epps hosting.

Believe me when I say nothing is more exciting than the zeal of the music fan. As I walked up to the ticket booth to receive my passes I saw the excitement that not even the sweltering heat could stifle. Sweat, smiles and a sea of umbrellas began to fill Merriweather. The once grassy open space was now a rainbow of lawn chairs and blankets occupied by persons filled with the spirit of anticipation…it was infectious!

Sometimes, because I create musical events, the tendency to become jaded to the thrill of seeing amazing artists can creep up on me, but the moment I saw the genuine exhilaration of those getting ready to experience the Summer Spirit Festival the lackluster faded and a powerful sense of elation took over me. In that instant I was no longer the event professional or sharp observer but the average fan ready to enjoy the experience.

**RAWK THE MIC**

Back stage I was able to catch up with all of The Foreign Exchange, one of my favorite musical talents and a group dear to me because they allowed Gypsy Soul to preview them in Baltimore first. They opened the show and brought with them the spirit of relief that the show had begun. Many were unfamiliar with the group but quickly caught on to the vibe. I mean you couldn’t help but catch on-the band was rawkin, Phonte was funny as always, and Yahzarah and Darien brought the extra oomph to seal the deal for new comers to The FE sound.

Music taste maker and DJ Big Tigger facilitated the transition to Chrisette Michelle, the vocal powerhouse. She performed tracks from her latest album and serenaded the audience with her versatile range. Her performance kept the audience captivated as they belted the songs right along with her. "Epiphany" was certainly a crowd pleaser.

The comedy of Mike Epps helped people forget how hot it was for a moment as they laughed wildly at his jokes. I’m not kidding people were slapping their legs, falling out in their chairs, wailing around while laughing hard, mouths open, heads back, eyes closed…even a tear or two…he is one funny dude. He got the crowd loose for the contagious beat of go-go as Chuck Brown hit the stage.

Chuck Brown is one BAAAAD man! The audience was a mix of Maryland, DC, Virginia, New York and more but when he came on you would have thought everyone was from Chocolate City because the crowd was on their feet and knew all the words to the songs and if you didn’t know you quickly learned. The spirit of dance was definitely invoked and had taken over the bodies of many!

One of today’s modern musical geniuses, Raphael Saadiq, took the stage. His music is so relevant to most of us today because he has been providing musical memories through the decades since our childhoods. He has added his masterpieces to African American cinema including Boys In The Hood and Higher Learning. He has progressed seamlessly through time and his live show was a reflection of just that. He performed hits like "Just Me & You", "Ask of You", "Lay Your Head on My Pillow" to his current album releases. What added to the musical experience was the appearance of the band. Everyone was dressed in black and white suits. It was uniform, crisp, and was a production worthy of his music.

Photo by Robert Lipski

Ive seen Erykah Badu 2 time before this show and I wasn’t sure how I would feel about her performance, not meaning I thought it would be bad, she has always been great, but again would I be jaded. When she took the stage all doubt was erased, I was totally captivated! Her back drop was this futuristic video of the Earth and its transitions which complimented the flow of her performance well. She began by preparing our minds for a fascinating journey by starting with “The Healer”. The crowd was immediately under her spell as they chanted the lyrics with her. Though the whole show was a treat, one of the best moments was when she performed “Apple Seed” over a “Planet Rock”ish beat, she knew she was jammin cause she started dancing and had the “o yeah, get it” face while she grooved! She shifted her show with a Michael Jackson tribute doing a rendition of “Off The Wall” which led to a personal favorite “I Want You”. From there she took us to “Back In The Day (Puff)” and included a slick “Sugar Free” sample where she picked up a tambourine and wore it out. From “Next Lifetime” she snuck in “Ye-Yo” and the atmosphere was heavy. Her voice was so heartfelt and haunting I felt tears welling up in me, that song brings out emotions. To end the night, which seemed to end to quickly, she left us with “Bag Lady” and infused it with a reggae twist and in true dedication to the fans came into the crowd and allowed us to swallow her up with reaching hands and shouts of “I love you Erykah”. There was to be no encore but it was late and I think the fans were satisfied with the entire day.

**CANDID**

For me the night wasn’t quite over. After the show Erykah hosted a group of fans for a question and answer session that she has been doing after her shows for years. The atmosphere held a bit of nervousness and anticipation. When she came in we were requested to keep cameras and video off because her youngest child Mars would be joining us. The interaction was great, she was open and honest as people spontaneously asked questions about music, touring, her children, and the upcoming album amongst other subjects. Being in the midst of such a beautiful gathering was an amazing way to end the night. Knowing that Ms. Badu allows her fans to get so close to her after every show has certainly solidified her as one of my favorite artists, not just for her talent but also her character.

Thank you to CD Enterprises for allowing Gypsy Soul access. Our audience supports good music and those who bring good music to the people!

CD Enterprises is a full service business and personal managment firm, as well as a full service production and event promotion firm. CD Enterprises' projects have included shows featuring a wide variety of music and comedy including Alicia Keys, Bernie Mack, Chuck Brown, Jamie Foxx, Joe Clair, John Ledgend, Kanye West, Mary Mary, Rick James, Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, The Roots, and Chaka Khan.

Read more »

Up Close & Personal with Darien Brockington

Last Saturday Gypsy Soul was given exclusive access to the Summer Spirit Festival presented by CD Enterprises. While back stage I come into contact with some wonderful musicians and vocalists. One of the many special moments of the festival for me was sitting down with one of The Foreign Exchange's features, Darien Brockington, to get the scoop on his impending album.

While munching on some good eats Darien gave me the update that he is halfway into the upcoming project titled Affected (The Story Of John Doe) and is working with producers that include Akira Shelton, Deuce from ATL, Sheldon Williams, S1, Khrysis, & E Jones. He conveyed that with the new project there is certainly a lot of growth, the first album Somebody to Love had more hip hop beats whereas Affected will be more R&B. Darien’s growth in life and his musical craft will without a doubt be reflected in this new endeavor. As for now there are no guest performances, the focus is “to keep it Darien” an album that is very personal, yet for everyone.

Veering a little off the subject I asked him about artists he listens to and I was very surprised that he was so into Gospel, citing Mary Mary, Kiki Sheard (one of my absolute favorites), and Kim Burrell among many artists he listens to. But two big musical influences are Brandy and Faith…very interesting picks.

Due to the digital transition that music has undergone and is still undergoing Darien foresees Affected (The Story Of John Doe) to be released mainly through the Internet. He still wants to do a disc release (though very limited) because of the experience it brings: being able to open the case and read lyrics, see pictures, view credits, and learn about an artist's family and influences all in one package.

Ive been blessed to encounter some cool artists who are anything but pretentious and Darien was no different. Very candid, open, and just real was my interaction with him and more than anything it was simply enjoyable. If you haven’t heard Somebody to Love you’re missing some good love makin "Come On Over", road trippin "I Need You" featuring Phonte of Little Brother, Saturday morning cleaning music "Think It Over" and Affected (The Story Of John Doe) is sure to just as versatile. You can stay up to date on all thing Darien Brockington aka D-Brock at: www.myspace.com/darienakadbrock and facebook: Darien Brockington.

Cross your fingers that Gypsy Soul can get the R&B crooner to our corner of the world for some Ear Candy...Stay tuned...

Read more »

Sweet Georgia Brown

Gypsy Soul has worked with many talented artists, but one stands out in particular for her memorable Ear Candy performance and that's Green Tea. She came and tore the house down a few months back and we recently had her for the Celebration of Black Music Month at the Eubie Blake National Jazz Institute and Cultural Center. She always gives a show that gets everyone involved and on their feet.

Green Tea currently has her second album Dosage II: Choices out and you would be doing yourself a major disservice if you didnt check it out. She recently released her music video "Sweet Georgia Brown," from the album and we here at Gypsy Soul are proud to give you the preview. Support great artists who put out responsible and quality music. She's an artists to watch for, so enjoy the video below.

Visit her website for more info on her at www.have-a-cup.com or give your ears a chance to hear good music at www.myspace.com/greenteasoul

Read more »

Ear Candy feat. Chester Gregory and Alison Carney

By now everyone should know that Gypsy Soul provides the best outlet for a true artist experience via Ear Candy in the City of Baltimore. Ear Candy is not a concert, but a unique concept, an evolved listening party & performance with a simplistically sultry atmosphere that allows fans to experience rare moments as they get to know the artists they love while introducing new comers to artists they are sure to fall in love with.

And with that said we want to announce our latest artists that will be performing this Thursday August 13th. First up is Chester Gregory, an award winning singer/songwriter and performer. Chester is carving out his own niche within the arena of R&B/Soul, but also finds time to provide mixtapes like "The Soundtrack to The Summer". His musical range encompasses everything from good soul music to throwback "beatbreaks" over notable hip-hop classics. He has received praise from heavyweights in the industry such as Phil Collins and Isaac Hayes. Even received a standing ovation from the King of Pop himself, Michael Jackson.

He is currently receiving rave reviews for his CD as well as his role in the new hit Broadway Musical "Cry Baby'. Previously, he was 'Seaweed' in the eight Tony Award winning Broadway hit musical, "Hairspray". He was recruited by Hairspray's producers and creative staff after they saw his performance in "The Jackie Wilson Story." During his 3 year sold out run, Chester's portrayal of this musical legend garnered him numerous accolades, and as a result he is a sought after performer who regularly appears before sold-out audiences. His latest music offering is "In Search of High Love," and you can witness some of the tracks performed live at Ear Candy and get a musical dose as only Gypsy Soul knows how to provide on August 13th. If you aren't familiar with him then get caught up and preview some of his music at www.myspace.com/chestergregory

Our other artist that we are bringing to you is seasoned musician Alison Carney. Constantly described as providing perfect pocket grooves, meticulous melodies, and inconceivable versatility, Alison's voice flirts with musical reverberations that dance over bass lines with a natural, unabashed style. Alison tells emotionally passionate, yet candid stories of life and love that unfurl into the gift of song. For these reasons alone she was one of the exclusive artists chosen for Vol. 2 of the Ear Candy Chronicles Mixtape. She has been noted to consistently deliver musically and give live performances that make you feel like you are listening to her in your own little world with your headphones on. It's rare that you find an artist who sounds just as good live as they do on their CD. So it was only fitting that we bring her to you live in living color this Thursday at Teavolve Cafe and Lounge. You'll be a witness firsthand to the Alison Carney experience which is sure to leave you captivated. Go and get acclimated with her at www.myspace.com/alisoncarney or www.alisoncarney.com

All you have to do is RSVP to rsvp@gypsysoul.info or accept the event invitation sent through the Gypsy Soul Facebook fan page http://tiny.cc/GSFANPAGE to ensure your seat at Ear Candy. You wont want to miss this edition of Ear Candy, so I'm sure that I will see you there.

Read more »

Rock The Block

One of the partners of Gypsy Soul, Briclyn Entertainment, has teamed up with lovers of good music to bring a show that is sure to be SERIOUSLY RAWKIN!

Make your way to Brooklyn this Friday to

ROCK THE BLOCK

with

FREEWAY

Hezekiah

& Kimberly Nichole

Satisfy your hip hop thirst while igniting your appetite for a lil rock soul.

DMV soulcialites....yo....get a show ticket, book your Mega Bus ticket and make a weekend of it in the Big Apple...Rock The Block is such a good reason to head north before the summer ends.

Read more »