Moving Forward in 2014

I haven't made a post on here in awhile and with a few more days left until the new year, I figured I would come on here and do a quick free-write. As I sit here and listen to Beyonce's new self-titled album I sit and think how much of an inspiration this woman is. By now everyone knows about my strong love for music and my aspirations of becoming a well-known and successful singer/ songwriter. So when it comes to an artist such as Beyonce I cannot help but be inspired with all that she does. I'm determined to work my ass off to one day becoming successful like Mrs. Carter. Last week I went to her Mrs. Carter Show here in Brooklyn and there were parts of the show where I became a little teary eyed because I was just thinking what if one day I get the opportunity to be on the stage in front of thousands of people and I look out into the crowd and see nothing but love from people who love and support my music and singing. 

I've been committed to private lessons for the past few years, but now I'm taking them 1000% more serious because this is something that I truly want for myself. With 2014 beginning next week I am only hoping for a more prosperous year and I'm hoping that all the work that I've done thus far and plan to do works out in my favor and grants me many opportunities that will lead to making my dreams coming true. 

Here is a school project from this past semester that I created about my love for music: 

Also remember to visit mrsgrapevine for all of my latest posts. 

New Music Video: Omarion "Know You Better" ft. Fabolous & Pusha T.

As MMG's Self Made 3 album releases in stores this week, Omarion has released the official music video for his single "Know You Better". The video was shot in New York City, the song is featuring Brooklyn's own Fabolous and Good Music's Pusha T. 

New Music:"Cali Love"/ "Almost Is Never Enough"

If you guys are familiar with my blog than you guys have seen me mention Sabi a few times over the past few years. Last year she began making a name for herself as a solo artist with her first two singles "Wild Heart" and "Where They Do That At" ft. Wale. This year she is back with her new single "Cali Love" featuring California's very own Tyga. The track was produced by Mark J. Feist, and it will appear of Sabi's new EP Cali Love, which is expected to drop this October. 

I know you guys are familiar with Ariana Grande from Nickelodeon's hit show Victorious and Sam & Cat. She is now at a point in her career where she is branching out into her music career, and can I say she is definitely killing it. Her voice is so amazing, it's hard to believe she's been playing a ditsy charter on television for the past few years. Nonetheless, her new single "Almost Is Never Enough" features Nathan Sykes from the UK boy band The Wanted. The two sing a beautiful duet for the soundtrack of the motion picture The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones, which is in theaters now. I've been listening to this song all week and I can guarantee you guys will do the same as well. 

New Music Video: "Own It"/ "Get Like Me"

Many of you may remember actor Tristan Wilds from the hit HBO Series The Wire, where he played the character Micheal Lee. He is also well known for his role as Dixon on the CW's series 90210. Now that the 24 year old has a well established acting career, he is now branching off  into music. His first official single "Own It" written by Ne-Yo and co written by himself is off of his debut album New York: A Love Story. The album is expected to be released on September 17th on Re Mi Fa/ Louder Than Life through Sony Records.

Nelly has made a return to the music industry after a successful season of BET's new sitcom The Real Husband's of Hollywood. His first single features Young Money's Nicki Minaj and super producer Pharrell Williams. The track will appear on his upcoming seventh studio album M.O. His last album 5.0 was released back in 2010, and his new album is expected to hit stores on September 30th.

New Music Video: "Dirty Laundry"

I'm sure you guys have become familiar with Kelly Rowland's single "Dirty Laundry" off of her new album Talk A Good Game. This week Kelly released the official visual of the popular single produced by The Dream.  

What do you guys think? 

New Music: "Ass Fat"/ "Love More"

This week Trina released her new single "Ass Fat" featuring MMG's very on Meek Mill. It's no word on whether or not this single will appear on an upcoming mixtape or a brand new album. Like many summer songs this is a twerking song for those who love to twerk and Trina even mentioned herself she is looking for the best twerking video. However, for the past few months people have been interested in the possible relationship between Trina and French Montana. If you notice the Coke Boys stamp is right on the singles cover, so this could mean she might be the newest artist to his roster, only time will tell.

Last weekend, Chris Brown released the third single off of his upcoming studio album X. "Love More" features YMCMB's first lady Nicki Minaj and I'm sure by now you all have seen the two perform the track at this years BET Awards. X, was scheduled to release earlier this month however it didn't and there was no official statement released as to why. Nor was there any postponed date released, however I'm sure Chris's legal issues has played a big role as why the album has yet to hit shelves. Nonetheless, I'm positive the album will be released before this year is up. 

New Music Video: K. Michelle "V.S.O.P"

Last month K. Michelle released the first official single off of her debut album from Atlantic Records. Since then "V.S.O.P" continues to do great numbers on iTunes and on the charts. This amazing song finally has a visual and the video was shot in Harlem, NY by well known video director Benny Boom. 

I almost forgot to share my experience with you guys. Last month I had the opportunity to attend a K. Michelle show at the Highline Ballroom here in New York City. When I tell you that K. Michelle can sing her ass off and can definitely put on a show, please believe me when I tell you so. I also had the chance to hold a brief conversation with her at the end of the show during the meet and greet. I told her how inspiring her show was and how I promised to work my ass off in my voice lessons this summer as I transitioned back into singing. It was so amazing to see an artist who truly loves to sing put on an amazing show and that is something I truly wanted to do. In response, she told me to keep working and keep pushing forward and to not let anyone distract me. Hearing that from her really motivated me, I am currently struggling in my voice lessons, but I do however have faith that things will become better and I will eventually live out my dream. 

Acoustic Performances: Ravaughn & Sevyn Streeter

I'm not sure about you guys, but I love when artist do acoustic performances because they show their fans that they have the actual vocals to perform live. Ravaughn, signed to Ne-Yo's Compound label recently did a acoustic performance to her new single "Best Friend" off of her debut album which is expected to release later on this year. 

Last month I introduced you guys to Sevyn Streeter's second single "It Won't Stop" off of her debut album which she is still currently working on. She kills the acoustic version of the song and makes it sound even better than the recording. 

New Music: "Beware"/ "In Motion"

Like many other artist Big Sean is gearing up to release his next studio album. His second album Hall of Fame is expected to drop on August 27th. His new single "Beware" features Jhene Aiko and Lil Wayne. The song speaks on the destruction of a relationship and being aware of a woman who can let others on the outside destroy a relationship. 

As everyone awaits the highly anticipated third studio from Drake he continues to release new music for his fans via his soundcloud account. One of his latest singles is "In Motion" featuring UK artist Sampha. The song was produced by both Sampha and Drake's usual producer and friend Noah "40" Shebib. 

New Music: "Crooked Smile"/ "Gone"/ "Ridin Slow"

I know it's been awhile since I have made any music post, but the summer begins within the next week and there is a lot of hot music and albums releasing and I am back to update you guys on what's new when it comes to some of your favorite artist. 

 J Cole has created quite the buzz for himself as he prepares to release his next studio album Born Sinner. With his leading single "Power Trip" taking over radio, he has released his next single "Crooked Smile" featuring the legendary TLC. In the song he talks about be satisfied with your imperfections and even talks about himself from his "crooked" smile to even his eyebrows. In my opinion the song is like a 2013 version of "Unpretty" and the song just happens to feature TLC, which makes it a cool connection. Born Sinner hits stores on June 18th, and there has been a lot of buzz on the release date because that is the same day Kanye West releases his next studio project Yeezus. I personally believe that J Cole has a great chance at standing up against Kanye. 

The next new song comes from Kelly Rowland, she is also gearing up to release her new project Talk A Good Game on June 18th. "Gone" features Taylor Gang's head honcho Wiz Khalifa and the two recently performed the song live on Jimmy Fallon this past week. Aside from her new album, Kelly Rowland is on tour with The Dream and she is also the new judge on the X Factor here in the US, which has already began filming. 

The summer is literally around the corner and the OMG Girlz have new music for their fans as they prepare to head on the All Around the World Tour with Mindless Behavior. The song gives a real cool laid back vibe, hence the song's title "Ridin Slow". Their debut album Officially Miss Guided is expected to release sometime later this year. 

New Music: "I'm Out"/ "It Won't Stop"

Following her hit single "Body Party", Ciara has released her fourth single off of her upcoming self titled album Ciara. Her new "I'm Out" features Nicki Minaj, the song basically speaks to all her exes letting them know they're basically going to miss her once they move on to the next one. Ciara's new album is expected to hit stores on July 9th.

With the success of her first single "I Like It", Sevyn Streeter has released her second single "It Won't Stop" off of her debut album. The album has yet to be titled, but her album is expected to be released later this year on Atlantic Records via Chris Brown's CBE Records. 

In cased you guys missed it, Sevyn did this HOT cover to Aaliyah's single "Come Over" after making a trip to her high school in Detroit. 

New Music: "Grown Woman" (FULL SONG)/ "V.S.O.P"

I'm sure by now many of you have seen Beyonce's Pepsi commercial which features her new song "Grown Woman". After a very long wait the entire song has leaked and everyone is able to hear the song as a whole. The song was produced by Timbaland and co-written by The Dream. Beyonce is currently on the European leg of her Mrs. Carter Tour, the whole Mrs. Carter Tour ends here in Brooklyn in August. 

K. Michelle's first single off of her upcoming studio album Rebellious Soul, has been released. Her new single "V.S.O.P" is a ballad produced by Pop & Oak. The song is sampled from Debra Laws "Very Special". K. Michelle has been using her time to do shows around the country, she is making use of her new record deal with Atlantic Records as she prepares to release her new album. I will actually be attending a K. Michelle show at the beginning of June and I will be sure to provide you guys with a post on the whole experience. She will also be co-hosting 106 & Park tomorrow for anyone who is interested in watching.

New Music: "Dirty Laundry"

By now I'm sure many of you have heard the controversial single "Dirty Laundry" by Kelly Rowland. The song was written by The Dream and the track has been the main topic of everyone's discussion as Kelly Rowland touches on an abusive relationship from her past, as well as being proud but envious of Beyonce while her solo career began to take off. Her new studio album Talk A Good Game, hits stores on June 18th and she begins her summer tour with The Dream on May 23rd/

New Music: "The One"/ "Neurotic Society (Compulsory Mix)"

Tamar Braxton has FINALLY released the second single off of her upcoming studio album. After working out the kinks in her record deal and signing with Epic Records via Streamline, the mom-to-be is gearing up to soon release the music video to her summer anthem "The One". The song was produced by rapper Yung Berg and LaShawn Daniels. The video was shot a few weeks ago on the Santa Monica pier where the theme of the music video was carnival. Carnival was also the theme for Tamar's babyshower that took place this past weekend in LA. In the words of Tamar herself, this single is so "funners" and with the sample of Notorious B.I.G's "Juicy" and Mtume's "Juicy Fruit" I cannot wait for the video. 

This past weekend Lauryn Hill released a new song called "Neurotic Society (Compulsory Mix)" on her Tumblr account. Under the song she also posted a message for her fans, basically stating that she was forced to release the track due to her recent legal issues. The song touch's on the many problems that currently exist in today's society. Unfortunately since releasing the track Lauryn Hill has been sentenced to three months in jail for her current legal issues. As a fan, I am hoping that once she is released that she can make an official return to music, she recently signed a new deal with Sony, which also includes a new record label. 

New Music: "Back to Black"/ "Crazy In Love"/ "$100 Bill"

With The Great Gatsby hitting theaters next week on May 10th, a few songs from the soundtrack has been released. The movie's soundtrack will be available May 7th. The soundtrack was produced by JayZ himself and it features all new original music, as well as covers of popular songs.

One highly anticipated cover featured on the soundtrack is Amy Winehouse's "Back to Black", covered by Andre 3000 and Beyonce. 

British singer Emeli Sande covered Beyonce's "Crazy In Love". 

Jay-Z appears on the soundtrack with his original song "$100 Bill".

New Music: "I Can't Win"/ "Give It Away"

This past week Chris Brown released two new tracks that will not appear on his upcoming studio album X, which has been scheduled to drop on July 16th. The first new track "I Can't Win"is rumored to be about his current relationship with Rihanna. According to several media outlets they are going through a rough patch while she is on her Diamonds World Tour. Nonetheless, this is a great track.

The next new track is called "Give It Away" and I think that the lyrics to the song is kind of self explanatory. Like the previous track, this will not appear on his upcoming album, but this track was a gift from Chris to his  fans for his 24th birthday, which is on May 5th.

K. Michelle's Rebellious Soul Coming Soon

With Love & Hip Hop Atlanta Season 2 premiering tonight K. Michelle released the first webisode that will document her journey in making her new studio album. Although I know she can be crazy at times, I do respect the fact that she focuses on her music and places that before all of the drama on reality television. 

New Music Video: Ciara- "Body Party"

Last month I introduced Ciara's new single "Body Party" off of her upcoming studio album. Since then she has changed the name of the album from One Woman Army to Ciara, the album is expected to drop on July 9th. The leading man of her video is her current boyfriend Future and the video has a nice laid back vibe as the video shows the two meeting at a party out in ATL. This time around I hope Ciara's album actually does well, and people stop doubting her as an artist. 

Fantasia "Lose To Win" on American Idol

If you have not seen Fantasia perform her leading single "Lose To Win" off of her upcoming studio album The Side Effects of You,than you most definitely missed out. This past Thursday she returned to American Idol and performed for the crowd. She did an outstanding job and I really began to cry. Many people have judged Fantasia for her struggles in the past, but they must remember she is extremely talented. Throughout the past year she has repaired her life. Not only did she sound great, but she looked great as well. Her new album comes out April 23rd, be sure to support her. 

Cassie- Rocka Bye Baby Mixtape

This week Cassie released her new mixtape Rocka Bye Baby, which is her first full body of work she has released since her debut album back in 2006. This mixtape has many features with rappers such as Fabolous, Rick Ross, Meek Mill and Wiz Khalifa. She spent the entire week doing promo rounds, she stopped by 106 & Park as well as had a meet and greet at the Sneaker Room in New Jersey. The two leading singles off of the mixtape are "Numb" featuring Rick Ross and "Paradise" featuring Wiz Khalifa. The name of the mixtape is inspired by the character Keisha from the classic movie New Jack City. The mixtape is a sample of the music to expect from her long awaited sophomore studio album.

Cassie visiting 106 & Park

New Music: "Switch Up"/ "Without Me"

Last week Big Sean released the first single off of his second studio album Hall of Fame, the song features his G.O.O.D Music label mate Common. The track was produced by Million $ Mano, No I.D., and Rob Kinelski. Big Sean's new album has yet to be given a release date, but is expected to drop some time before this year comes to an ends.

Fantasia has released the second single off of her upcoming album Side Effect, which will be released on April 23rd. Her new single "Without Me" features fellow songstress Kelly Rowland and Missy Elliot. The song was produced by Kyle Stewart, Missy Elliot, Al Sherrod Lambert and Harmony Samuels. I am really rooting for Fantasia this time around because many people seem to be stuck on her personal life and not her professional life. Some forget that this woman can sing her ass off, nonetheless Fantasia has remained positive and has been promoting this project, so I do commend her for sticking to business and changing her life around for the better. 

Melanie Fiona Covers

Now I have seen Melanie Fiona do covers before, but recently she has been doing something different. When I say different I mean actually making her own beats to her covers, she simply uses her own voice and  pieces them all together and then singers over the beat. I personally feel like she is one of the singers who are actually underrated. She is an actual REAL vocalist and she has a few Grammy Awards under her belt. Nonetheless I am so in love with her covers to Wale's "Bad" and Drake's "Started From the Bottom". 

What do you guys think? 

Chris Brown Promo Week

This week Chris Brown made various stops to television and radio stations in New York City as he promoted his new single "Fine China" and his upcoming studio album X. During each of his interviews the most popular questions were centered around his rekindled relationship with pop star Rihanna, who is currently on her Diamonds world tour. As well as the beef between him and YMCMB rapper Drake.

Tuesday morning at the Today Show

Later on that day he went to 106 & Park, where he premiered the music video to "Fine China"

One of my favorite radio interviews he did throughout the week was when he visited Hot 97's Funkmaster Flex's Show where he did a  freestyle to Drake's "Started From the Bottom".

New Music Video: "High School"/ "Fine China"

Yesterday Nicki Minaj released the highly anticipated music video for her single "High School" which features Lil Wayne. This song is on her Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded THE RE-UP album. This video has grabbed quite some attention as viewers see Nicki and Lil Wayne participate in a love scene, although their real life relationship is like brother and sister. Nicki is expected to start working on her next studio album, which will most likely continue with the Pink Friday franchise. As a fan of Nicki Minaj I think it would be pretty cool for Nicki to actually release a mixtape like she once did before she was signed to Young Money.

This week Chris Brown began doing his promo rounds for his 6th studio album X. This past Tuesday he visited 106 & Park as well as the Today Show where he promoted the first single off of his new album. His new song "Fine China" was produced by Diplo. The song channels the late Micheal Jackson with the style of the song as well as the treatment for the music video. When asked about the meaning behind the title he said there were many reasons, one being that the letter "X" is the 24th letter in the alphabet and he'll be 24 when the album releases (his birthday is on May 5th), the album is expected to drop sometime this summer. 

New Music: "Hit Em Up"/ "F*uck for the Road"

Young Money rapper Tyga is gearing up for the release for his third studio album Hotel Californa, which will be released next week on May 9th. The album features songs such as "Molly" and "Dope". Last week two new tracks were released from the album. One of those tracks being "F*uck for the Road" featuring Chris Brown. This slow jam samples the classic SWV song "Rain", although it wasn't mentioned I'm sure his child's mother Blac Chyna was the inspiration behind this song. Not to mention that Tyga just released the tour dates for his upcoming tour overseas, which begins April 30th in Germany.

The second track released this past week was "Hit Em Up", which features Jadakiss and the late Tupac. The song was produced by DJ Mustard, who is known for working with rapper YG. For those who are fans of Tupac are familiar with his legendary diss track "Hit Em Up", so it was only right that he was featured on this track. 

New Music Videos: "R.I.P"/ "Mirrors"

This past weekend Young Jeezy released the visual to his hot new single "R.I.P" featuring 2 Chainz, this single will most likely appear on his next upcoming album, which has yet to be titled. The video features cameos from various celebrities, such as Snoop Dogg (Snoop Lion), YG, Draya, Trey Songz and many others. 

Justin Timberlake is officially BACK. He recently released his new album The 20/20 Experience, and last week he released the video for his second single "Mirrors", which was produced by Timbaland (it's obvious since the beat is similar to "Cry Me A River"). The video is dedicated to his grandparents, as his grandfather recently passed away last year. Listening to the lyrics of the song, Justin expresses that he feels the love shared between his grandparents has been passed down to him and his new wife actress Jessica Biel. I love everything about this song and video. 

Music Video: Kelly Rowland- "Kisses Down Low"

Back in January I introduced you guys to Kelly Rowland's new single "Kisses Down Low" produced by Mike Will Made It. Last week she released a colorful and fun visual to the track, which is featured on her upcoming studio album. The video was directed by. Colin Tilley.

New Music: "Body Party"/ "5AM in Toronto"

Last week Ciara released the third single off of her fifth studio album One Woman Army. Her new single "Body Party" was produced by fellow ATL producer Mike Will Made It. The song samples Ghost Town Dj's hit single "My Boo". Recently Ciara has been making headlines for her personal life as she recently started dating rapper Future. I actually like this song and I may be one of the few people looking for her to win and get back on top this time around. There is no official release date for the album, but she is looking to release the album as early as this upcoming Spring. 

This week Drake released the second single off of his upcoming studio album Nothing Was The Same, "5am in Toronto" is said to be the follow up from his "9am in Dallas" single, which appeared on his Thank Me Later album. In this particular single it's rumored that he addressed the whole Chris Brown club brawl and the issues he recently had with The Weekend. Nothing Was The Same, does not have an official release date as of yet, but it's expected to drop later on this year. 

New Video: "Poetic Justice"- Kendrick Lamar

Kendrick Lamar has finally released the visual to his latest popular single "Poetic Jestice", the song appears on his debut album good kid, m.A.A.d city, which is currently in stores. It was rumored that Janet Jackson was asked to make an appearance in the video. However, the video is set in modern day Compton where a drive-by shooting occurs with Kendrick Lamar and his love interest. Kendrick Lamar is currently on tour. 

Grammys 2013 Favorite Looks

King Bey played it safe this year, but still managed to remain one of the best dressed.

 Rihanna looked amazing in all red.

Chris Brown has been going through a lot lately, but managed to clean up nice.

Chris & Rihanna were definitely the talk of the night.

Kelly Rowland just looked simply amazing.

Erica Campbell from my favorite gospel group Mary Mary looked amazing, she's been getting into a lot of solo work lately, and you can see where it all began on her hit reality tv show Mary Mary on WE TV on Thursdays at 9pm.

Elle Varner didn't walk the carpet but she still had an amazing look, especially with her hair change up. 

Rocsi Diaz looked nice and kept it simple in a Fifth & Mercer jumpsuit. 

Years later SWV is still looking great and getting nominated for Grammy's.

Nas was nominated for six Grammy's for his current album Life is Good, and won no awards (which was cazy) however he did switch up the traditional tuxedo look. 

I introduced you all to Bridget Kelly about two years ago and this year she won her first Grammy for her songwriting skills on Kelly Clarkson's song "Stronger".