@BILAL PREMIERES MUSIC VIDEO "MONEY OVER LOVE" FT. KENDRICK LAMAR, NEW ALBUM IN STORES NOW...

(July 1, 2015 - New York, NY) --Today, Grammy-nominated artist BILAL premiered his long anticipated music video, "Money Over Love" featuring Grammy winner Kendrick Lamar on TheFader.com. With BILAL's soulful voice, Adrian Younge's vintage production, and Lamar's explosive verse, "Money Over Love" becomes one of the most thrilling records on BILAL's new album, In Another Life, available now. 

Prior to the album's release, BILAL spoke with several outlets including NPR, NYLON, Ebony, and Mass Appeal about the new direction of his album and how the music is a reflection of someone else's life. The Hans Elder-directed video depicts a disturbing interracial love story that is tarnished by poverty and greed. "Money Over Love" is the record that breathes a new feeling into In Another Life.

Receiving rave reviews from Pitchfork, YouKnowIGot Soul, Soul Tracks and more, In Another Life is yet another reminder of BILAL's undeniable talent and standing in soul alternative music. 

Take a peek at Bilal's new video below!​

Bilal's will also be embarking on A small tour in select U.S. markets before heading to Europe.   Dates are listed below:  

July 1 - New York, NY - Highline Ballroom

July 2 - Baltimore, MD - Jazzy Summer Nights @ Horse Shoe Casino

July 3 - Alexandria, VA - Birchmere

July 4 - New Orleans, CA - Essence Festival

July 18 - Atlanta, GA - Center Stage Theater

July 21 - London, UK - Under The Bridge

July 23 - Dublin, Ireland - The Sugar Club

July 28 - Amsterdam, Netherlands - North Sea Jazz Club

July 30 - Paris, France - New Morning

July 31 - Stockholm, Sweden - Club Fasching

September 12 - Detroit, MI - Detroit Opera House

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@BILAL PREMIERES MUSIC VIDEO "MONEY OVER LOVE" FT. KENDRICK LAMAR, NEW ALBUM IN STORES NOW...

(July 1, 2015 - New York, NY) --Today, Grammy-nominated artist BILAL premiered his long anticipated music video, "Money Over Love" featuring Grammy winner Kendrick Lamar on TheFader.com. With BILAL's soulful voice, Adrian Younge's vintage production, and Lamar's explosive verse, "Money Over Love" becomes one of the most thrilling records on BILAL's new album, In Another Life, available now. 

Prior to the album's release, BILAL spoke with several outlets including NPR, NYLON, Ebony, and Mass Appeal about the new direction of his album and how the music is a reflection of someone else's life. The Hans Elder-directed video depicts a disturbing interracial love story that is tarnished by poverty and greed. "Money Over Love" is the record that breathes a new feeling into In Another Life.

Receiving rave reviews from Pitchfork, YouKnowIGot Soul, Soul Tracks and more, In Another Life is yet another reminder of BILAL's undeniable talent and standing in soul alternative music. 

Take a peek at Bilal's new video below!​

Bilal's will also be embarking on A small tour in select U.S. markets before heading to Europe.   Dates are listed below:  

July 1 - New York, NY - Highline Ballroom

July 2 - Baltimore, MD - Jazzy Summer Nights @ Horse Shoe Casino

July 3 - Alexandria, VA - Birchmere

July 4 - New Orleans, CA - Essence Festival

July 18 - Atlanta, GA - Center Stage Theater

July 21 - London, UK - Under The Bridge

July 23 - Dublin, Ireland - The Sugar Club

July 28 - Amsterdam, Netherlands - North Sea Jazz Club

July 30 - Paris, France - New Morning

July 31 - Stockholm, Sweden - Club Fasching

September 12 - Detroit, MI - Detroit Opera House

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ICE CUBE & SPECIAL GUESTS TO PERFORM EXCLUSIVE NWA TRACKS FROM THE CLASSIC ALBUM, STRAIGHT OUTTA COMPTON DURING BET EXPERIENCE AT L.A. LIVE PRESENTED BY COCA-COLA®

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Saturday’s concert at STAPLES Center during BET Networks’ BET Experience at L.A. LIVE presented by Coca-Cola® is all about West Coast Hip Hop. As a part of Ice Cube’s performance, he will surprise fans with special guests for an exclusive set of tracks from the seminal rap group NWA. Selling over 10 million albums in the US alone, NWA is considered one of the earliest and most influential West Coast rap groups of all time. This will be the first time in 15 years since the groups split that these songs will be performed.

The BET Experience at L.A. LIVE will take place in Los Angeles on June 25-28 and will be filled with music and comedy concerts taking place at Club Nokia and STAPLES Center. Limited number of tickets are still available at axs.com/betexperience.

Tickets for the BET Experience at L.A. LIVE presented by Coca-Cola® are on sale now. Single day STAPLES Center show tickets are priced as low as $59.50, while 3-day STAPLES Center concert ticket packages start at $169.50.

For fans looking to roll like a VIP throughout the biggest summer weekend in entertainment, the VIP packages are the only way to purchase “BET AWARDS” tickets, get great seats to the STAPLES Center shows, and exclusive access your friends will envy. Quantities are limited, so order now at http://www.axs.com/betexperience Follow the Experience on Twitter @betexperience.

The 4-day schedule for this year's experience is as follows:

BET EXPERIENCE AT L.A. LIVE SCHEDULE:

THURSDAY, June 25, 2015
STAPLES Center – 8pm: Kevin Hart
Club Nokia – 11pm: Bell Biv DeVoe and Doug E. Fresh

FRIDAY, June 26, 2015
STAPLES Center – 7pm: Nicki Minaj
Club Nokia – 11pm: Miguel

SATURDAY, June 27, 2015
STAPLES Center – 7pm: Kendrick Lamar, Ice Cube and Snoop Dogg with Jay Rock and Ab-Soul
Club Nokia – 11pm: The Roots and Friends
LA Convention Center: FREE Fan Fest

SUNDAY, June 28, 2015
LA Convention Center: FREE Fan Fest
“BET AWARDS”
* All times PST

REALITY TV AND R&B AND REALITY TV STAR RAY J RELEASES NEW SINGLE "BROWN SUGAR" FEAT. LIL WAYNE...

(May 19, 2015 --New York, NY) – R&B star, entrepreneur, and reality TV personality Ray J (For The Love of Ray J, Brandy and Ray J: A Family Business, Love & Hip Hop Hollywood, Bad Girls All-Star Battle) just released his new single "Brown Sugar" feat. Lil Wayne today.  Listen to the single here and purchase here.  

Ray J will release an as-yet-untitled new studio album through Fifth Amendment Entertainment/Knockout Entertainment/ Entertainment One Music later this year. Details will be announced shortly.  

 
Ray J released his most successful album to date, All I Feel, on eOne Music (formerly KOCH Records) in 2008.  The album was a collection of ballads and up-tempo songs that showcased Ray’s versatility, and included the triple-platinum single “Sexy Can I.” The chart-topping single peaked at #1 on the Billboard R&B Chart, #1 on the Independent Chart, #2 on the Mainstream Top 40 Chart and #3 on the Billboard Hot 100.

@Malcupnext Debut Single In Stores NOW...

At the young age of 14, social media phenom Malcolm White, now known to the world as Malcupnext, is destined for stardom, as he has released his debut single, This feeling”, to the world. 

It was just a few months ago that he and his high school friend were on Fox 8 Cleveland with television personality Wayne Dawson, being interviewed about his music, and the things he had been doing to showcase it to the world, albeit around the city of Cleveland and throughout his high school. Fast forward to now, and he’s signed to a recording deal by two of the biggest names in hip-hop music, Antwan Patton, known to the world as Big Boi of supergroup Outkast, and Mr DJ, who has been Outkast’s DJ for the length of their careers. 

Already a story of success, the sky is definitely the limit, and bigger things are destined with this union for Malcolm. Take a moment and and listen to "This Feeling" below, and be sure to purchase on iTunes!

"This Feeling" is Malcolm's debut single off of the Camp Purple label.

Cleveland Teen, Malcupnext, to Release Debut Single May 19...

Cleveland has been on the uprise in terms of music lately, and that trend is set to continue with the upcoming release from rising star Malcolm White. Working under the stage name #Malcupnext, he hails from right here on the streets of Cleveland, and is signed as the premiere act on Camp Purple, a label headed by Big Boi of Outkast and Mr DJ, Outkast's original DJ & Dungeon Family alumni! 

All the buzz literally began from Malcolm and his friend, Brycen Hunt, posting videos of him singing songs like John Legend's Ordinary People via Twitter & Instagram. The videos instantly went viral, and now he's prepared to release his first single, "This Feeling", May 19. 

Surely, it all must be absolutely surreal for the 14-year old Cleveland native. It was only 2 months ago that Malcolm and his friend were interviewed by Wayne Dawson on Fox 8 Cleveland's local morning show (see it here), and now, he's aligned to do huge things in music. It's one thing to be noticed for your talent, but when you're noticed by someone has big as Big Boi, it speaks wonders for your talent. Camp Purple is not Big's first foray into artist development. He first headed up Aquemini Records, which later became Purple Ribbon Entertainment. He was behind the early success of rapper Killer Mike, as well as the success of Janelle Monae. Both were signed to Purple Ribbon. If their current success is any bit of indication, Malcupnext's career will definitely soar. 

Take a moment to visit his Instagram account, @malcupnext, to see recent videos, and be sure to stay tuned into UGDigital for updates. 

Jill Scott Releases New Single, Announces New Tour...

Singer & Actress Jill Scott has released the lead single, Fools Gold, from her upcoming album. Co-written and produced by Andre Harris, formerly of the production duo Dre & Vidal, Fools Gold follows behind the buzz single, You Don't Know, which Scott released earlier this year. A title has not been announced for the album, which will stand as the follow-up to Scott's 2011 release, The Light of the Sun. 

This release falls right in line with the announcement of Jill's tour, which will take her across the country for 25 intimate dates. See below for a listing of tour dates. 

07/13: Pittsburgh, PA @ Heinz Hall

07/15: Newark, NJ @ NJ Performing Arts Center, Prudential Hall
07/16: Wallingford, CT @ Toyota Presents the Oakdale Theatre
07/18: Baltimore, MD @ Pier Six Pavilion
07/19: Bethlehem, PA @ Sands Bethlehem Event Center
07/22: Brooklyn, NY @ Kings Theatre
07/25: Cincinnati, OH @ Paul Brown Stadium (Cincinnati Music Festival)
07/26: Atlantic City, NJ @ Borgata Spa & Resort - Event Center
07/29: Vienna, VA @ Wolf Trap for the Performing Arts/The Barns
07/30: Durham, NC @ Durham Performing Arts Center
08/01: Birmingham, AL @ BJCC Concert Hall
08/02: Atlanta, GA @ Chastain Park Amphitheatre
08/04: Memphis, TN @ Orpheum Theatre
08/05: Nashville, TN @ Ascend Amphitheater
08/08: Hollywood, FL @ Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
08/09: St. Petersburg, FL @ Mahaffey Theater
08/11: Jackson, MS @ Thalia Mara Hall
08/12: Houston, TX @ Bayou Music Center
08/14: Grand Prairie, @ TX Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie
08/15: Austin, TX @ ACL Live at the Moody Theater
08/19: Los Angeles, CA @ Greek Theatre
08/22: Oakland, CA @ Fox Theater
08/23: Saratoga, CA @ The Mountain Winery
08/25: San Diego, CA @ Humphrey's
08/28: Phoenix, AZ @ Comerica Theatre 

Pia Mia Releases New Single, 'Do It Again',

LOS ANGELES, May 5, 2015 /  -- Wolfpack/Interscope recording artist Pia Mia releases her first official single "Do It Again" which is now available for digital download and streaming HERE. The infectious Nic Nac produced track features R&B superstar Chris Brown and rapper Tyga. "Do It Again" has been selected for Clear Channel's On The Verge artist for Rhythm radio beginning May 11. 

Check out the lyric video HERE.

Throughout 2014, the singer/songwriter who hails from Guam undeniably left her footprint on the music scene. Billboard Magazine named Pia one of eight "acts who will help define 2014." It's safe to say that she indeed did just that. Pia not only formed her own record label, Wolfpack Entertainment, but also signed with Interscope Records and released her debut EP, The Gift. She collaborated with Chance the Rapper for the soundtrack to the original motion picture "Divergent," and released "On My Mind" which appeared on "NOW That's What I Call Music! Vol. 50." 

In January 2015, Pia Mia digitally released her track "F**K WITH U" featuring G-Eazy. The song received high praise from fans and earned 12 million views in three months.

Catch Pia Mia performing live at Power 106 FM's Powerhouse 2015 on May 16.

SOURCE: Interscope Records

Album Review: Ciara: Jackie

Ciara, Jackie Cover Art

Ciara is back with her new LP, titled "Jackie". Named after her mother, the album symbolizes the idea that now as a mother herself, Ciara is able to see things through the ideas of her mother. 

As a fan of Ciara and her music, I have to say that I’m pretty impressed with Jackie, as I believe most will be. Obviously, Ciara has been around for more than a decade now, having released her debut “Goodies” in 2004. She has grown progressively throughout the years, and this time around, she’s got an album that showcases that growth. 

Producers throughout Jackie include Rehab, Polow da Don, Dr. Luke, and Harmony Samuels, who has provided the musical backdrop for such artists as Fantasia, Ariana Grande, Keyshia Cole, and Jennifer Hudson just to name a few. 

The album starts of with the somewhat-shocking, yet pleasing ‘Jackie (B.M.F.) (Still wrapping my mind around Ciara saying she’s a back motherfucker). All jokes aside, it’s really a solid track, and the beat (provided by Harmony Samuels) pulls you in from the start, as the production does throughout the entire LP. She goes on, saying “can’t even hate cause you know this shit hot, yea I’m that bitch, like it or not, better get ready cause I’m not gone’ stop”… There’s a whole new level of confidence that I believe people will really like seeing and hearing. 

Missy Elliott and Pitbull appear on “That’s How I’m Feelin’”. There’s been a bit of back and forth about whether this would be the follow-up single to “I Bet”, but it’s looking as though it may be “Dance Like We’re Making Love”, which is produced by Dr. Luke, who has also produced for many of the biggest acts in the industry. Honestly, I feel like that’s probably a good move. “Dance Like We’re Making Love” just has this smooth groove about it that you can’t help but dance to. 

Ciara asserts her independence and strength on the Polow da Don - produced ‘Fly”. “I Got You” is a touching tune that is clearly inspired by motherhood. 

Overall, fans will be pleased with “Jackie”. Ciara has always appeared confident in her step, yet, there’s a newfound level of confidence, freedom, and independence that exudes throughout this LP. 

Kenny Lattimore's 'ANATOMY OF A LOVE SONG' in Stores NOW

(New York, NY – April 15, 2015) -- Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Kenny Lattimore has released his new album, Anatomy of a Love Song,  on Sincere Soul Records/eOne Music.  The album can be purchased here.

 
Lattimore’s first single, “Love Me Back” is currently #16 at Urban AC radio and growing.  Listen to the track here.  

In addition, Lattimore is confirmed for The Drop, a special event at The Grammy Museum in Los Angeles on April 20.  Tickets can be purchased here.

Lattimore’s music reflects the best of all worlds as it combines the timeless sounds of traditional R&B with a unique contemporary flair to create a universal sound that transcends boundaries and appeals to audiences of all ages, races and genres. His body of work, which includes hits such as “Never Too Busy” and the Grammy nominated “For You,” has garnered two Gold-selling albums, the NAACP Image Award for Best New Artist, and nominations for Soul Train Awards and Stellar Awards.

 
In addition to Kanye West sampling Lattimore’s “Lately” in his song “I’m In It,” from his #1 album Yeezus, a diverse array of artists including Musiq Soulchild, Rachelle Ferrell, Ray J, Nancy Wilson, Heather B, Michael Lington and Brian Culbertson, have sought out his talents for their own projects. He performed the duet “Love Will Find A Way” with Heather Headley for Disney’s The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride. He and singer Chante Moore recorded the Marvin Gaye/Tammi Terrell duet “You’re All I Need To Get By,” which was selected as the theme song for the BET show The Family Crews.
  
“Love Me Back” can be purchased here.

#UGDExclusive with Calvin Richardson

We had the pleasure of completing an exclusive interview with singer & songwriter Calvin Richardson today, and that will begin running at #UrbanGrandstandDigital Friday, April 10!  

Calvin gives us the rundown on his new album, his new deal with Eric Benet's recording label, and so much more.  

Be sure to check that out here at #UrbanGrandstandDigital! 

www.ugdigital.com

ALBUM REVIEW: @Jodecimusic ... The Past, The Present, The Future...

So the question on everyone’s mind is whether Jodeci was able to do it? Were they able to put together a solid LP after having been away for 20 years? The industry has changed drastically since they last released an album. Their last release was 1995’s “The Show, The After Party, The Hotel”. Their time away has made way for so many others to step in and command their territory, so to speak. It’s always been said that the longer you’re away, the easier for people to forget about you, but reality is no one has forgotten Jodeci. They made that much an impact with their catalog that fans literally have been wait; not so patiently, for a return. 

So here we are, 20 years later, with The Past, The Present, The Future. Truth is, they really do have a lot to prove. You can’t help but reiterate the fact of how long it has been. Their fanbase is that much older. Regardless of how they’ve been waiting for a new album, buying power today does not equal that of 20 years ago. Yes, people are still buying and downloading, but not in their demographic. They have a major task at hand in transitioning their newly re-established brand into album sales. Realistically, that may take some time. For the most part, The Past, The Present, The Future is a solid album. Some tracks sound quite polished and perfected [“Every Moment”, “Too Hot”, “Nobody Wins"], while others sound rushed and incomplete [“Checkin For You”]. One would imagine that once everyone was back on the same page and ready to put music together, they likely jumped in head first, and perhaps rushed through the process. Timbaland provides the backdrop for “Those Things” and “Incredible”, which in itself is great because of the history he has with the fellas. The hook to “Incredible, if you listen closely, plays just a bit on S.O.S. Band’s “Tell Me If You Still Care”, without directly sampling the tune. 

How The Past, The Present, The Future fares to you will depend greatly upon what your expectations were to begin with. I, for one, would have liked to see them reinvent themselves. It also would have been nice if some of the tracks dived into the things they’ve struggled with over the last two decades. Honestly, it’s more like they were trying to pick up where they left off. The content is similar, and for the most part, they’re not necessarily doing anything new. That; unfortunately, may work against them. But one thing still remains: they guys are still legends, and it’s good to see them back. All things being said, the album is still worth a listen. They are proving to the masses that despite what happens, and regardless of what struggles you endure, you can still make it through and live your dreams. Hopefully, this is the start of something that will continue to rebuild.