Remembering Aaliyah

It's truly hard to believe that it was 10 years ago today that the entertainment industry lost a budding superstar. Granted, Aaliyah was our original Princess of R&B (sorry Ashanti) for years, but she was well on her way to becoming an incredibly major mainstream artist. With her budding acting career coupled with her marketability, Aaliyah was ready to take the world by storm before her life was cut short at the age of 22.

Although that avoidable airplane crash took her away physically, her music and movies will live on forever.

Be sure to catch, "Aaliyah: One in a Million," tonight on BET at 8pm EST.

What was your favorite Aaliyah song? 

We Keep on "Fallin" a Decade Later!

Listen up all of my fellow Alicia Keys fans! The incredibly talented singer, producer, songwriter and new mom is set to release a special 10th Anniversary Deluxe and Collector's edition on J Records/Legacy Recordings of her debut album, "Songs in A Minor," on June 28th. Can you believe it's been a decade since we first fell in love with the refreshing mega-hit, "Fallin?"

Not only will the deluxe (2 discs) offering deliver the goods from her original work that garnered Keys her first five Grammys, but will also feature previously unreleased and original bonus material. While the Collector's Edition (3- disc set) will feature special packaging, liner notes, and a documentary reflecting on her debut ten years ago.

It's hard to believe how quickly time flies, but it's safe to say that Keys will be around for years to come.

Check out the trailer:



If you want to catch Keys in concert, she'll be performing in New York City's historic Beacon Theater on June 30th. Tickets go on sale on May 6th via TicketMaster.

What's your favorite Alicia Keys' song?

Miss Jackson

Not many artists can sell millions of records, sell out stadiums and stand tall next to a MEGA-superstar sibling, but that's not the case for Miss Janet Jackson. Always one of my favorite artists, Janet has released another greatest hits CD aptly titled, "Number Ones." Fan favorites such as "Pleasure Principle," "That's the Way Love Goes, and "Control," are among some of the tracks included, in addition to her latest single, "Make Me."



If you're a fan of Janet's be sure to catch her first televised interview since the passing her beloved brother, Michael, tonight on ABC with Robin Roberts at 10/9C. Also, don't miss Janet opening the American Music Awards this Sunday on ABC. 8/7C.

What's your favorite Janet Jackson song?

Soulful Sounds of Summer

With the anticipation of Whitney Houston's upcoming release, "I Look to You," it seems like people are finally getting excited about music again. After getting rave reviews from attendees at her listening parties in London, NYC and L.A, it seems like Ms. Houston just might be on her way to making a true comeback.

In addition to Whitney Houston's highly-anticipated September release, here are a few other new and semi-new releases that could be music to your ears:


Whitney Houston - "I Look to You"


Maxwell - "Black Summer's Night"


Jordin Sparks - "Battlefield"


Joe - "Signature"

What are some of your favorite CDs and songs right now? What do you think is the song of the summer? Are you looking forward to Whitney Houston's new release? Do you think she can make a comeback?

Days of Their Lives

If you're a fan of reality TV like me, this season of MTV's Making the Band did not disappoint. For those of you who did watch the show, you witnessed Que's mini-mental meltdown on basically every single episode. Luckily, he got a grip and the guys of Day 26 managed to band together to record their sophomore CD, "Forever and a Day," which was released earlier this week. The two-part season finale airs tonight at 9pm EST on MTV.



Did you watch Making the Band this season? If so, what were your thoughts? Have you heard Day 26's new release? One winner will win a copy of the CD. Just leave a comment and a winner will be selected randomly.

**The winner of The Body Shop lip gloss is KittyVodka!! Congrats!

Timeless Tunes for Lovers

There's nothing more romantic than listening to a great love song. From Stevie Wonder to Mariah Carey, there are an abundance of great slow jams to get you in the mood for love. A classic love song speaks to your heart and soul while making you long for your significant other or dream of finding that one true love. I'm sure this Valentine's Day many of you will be listening to timeless romantic tunes.

I'm a die-hard R&B music fan, but what's your favorite love song or ballad singer?

Here are a few of my top picks:


"Amazing Love" by Luther Vandross.


"Dangerously in Love" by Beyonce


"Angel" by Anita Baker


"We Belong Together" by Mariah Carey


"Ribbon in the Sky" by Stevie Wonder

Grammy Time!

Even when we are going through incredibly trying times, nothing can work as an instant pick-me up like the universal language - music! With the 51st Annual Grammy's airing live on CBS on Sunday, I wanted to know what you guys thought of the nominations.

Do you agree with the list of nominees? What is your favorite? Do you feel like someone was overlooked? I personally felt as though Mariah Carey should've been nominated in at least one category because I loved every last song on her CD, E=MC2. Well, maybe not every single song, but most of them.


Ne-Yo's Year of the Gentleman is nominated for Album of the Year.


Estelle's "American Boy" is nominated for Record of Year.


Leona Lewis is nominated for several awards, including Best Pop Vocal for "Bleeding Love."


Jazmine Sullivan is nominated for Best New Artist. Click here to read my interview with her.


Lil' Wayne is nominated for several awards including, Album of the Year for Tha Carter III.


M.I.A.'s "Paper Planes" is being nominated for Record of the Year.

Click here for the full list of nominations.
Btw, the winner of the $50 Home Depot gift card is Rebee! Congrats! Please email me your mailing address.

Music to My Ears!

It’s that time of year again when musical artists drop their CDs just in time to be added to your Christmas lists! I’m especially excited about the upcoming releases from two of my favorite artists – Beyonce and Kanye West. What artists have you been listening to lately? Are you anticipating Beyonce’s and Kanye’s CDs too? What do you think of Beyonce’s alter ego, Sasha Fierce?

Please share!

Beyonce's, "I Am...Beyonce/Sasha" double-disc will be (there's another cover for Sasha Fierce) available in stores and on iTunes on November 17th.


Kanye West's "808s and Heartbreak" will be available in stores and on iTunes on November 25th.

I'm also enjoying Jazmine Sullivan's "Fearless." If you haven't checked out my interview with her, check it out here!

BGG Chats with Newcomer Suai

You may not know her name yet, but that will soon change. Suai (pronounced "sway") is a hot new Universal/Motown artist who is sure to set the airwaves on fire with her unique sound. Having already made an appearance on BET's hit show, Baldwin Hills, as well as being one of the esteemed artists featured on the "Yes We Can: Voices of a Grassroots Movement" CD for Barack Obama, this Detroit native is ready to take the music world by storm.

Check out my Q&A with this talented new singer:

BGG: Is Suai your birth name? If so, what does it mean?
Suai: My parents didn’t know this when they named me, but later found out that it means “beautiful” in Thai. When I was a little girl, my mother and I came up with an acronym for it, “Smart, Unique, Assertive, Individual.” So yes, that’s my real name.

BGG: Who are some of the artists you’ve opened for so far?
Suai: Last summer I opened for T-Pain and it was a lot of fun. I had a band, a dancer and my background dancers. A lot of my friends were in the front row so it felt like all of these people were there to see me! (laughing)
Brian McKnight was my first professional opening back in 2004. I’ve been signed for 3 years to Universal.

BGG: A lot of people think that many artists’ success comes overnight, but that’s not the case.
Suai: No, it’s a process. Some people get in there and have an album out quicker than 3 years, but for us we wanted to take our time and do it right, as opposed to just putting out anything.

BGG: Hailing from the Motor City, who is your favorite old-school Motown artist?
Suai: I love the Temptations. They were just so fly to me! I’m a female so you’d probably think that it would be somebody like Diana Ross, but the Temptations… I feel like everyone patterns themselves after them. You know the matching suits and their moves were so smooth.

BGG: Tell me how you got signed to Universal/Motown?
Suai: I actually got signed in 2005, but I first came here (New York) in 2004. I auditioned with several different labels, but I got a lot of no’s at first. That gave me a thick skin. It was so hard to hear “no” so many times. I was out here to audition for another label and we ran into this guy who knew Sylvia Rhone (the President of Universal/Motown). He called her and she told him to come on up. I was toting my heavy guitar all around New York I think I was 18 or 19 at the time. I played two songs on my guitar and then we found a piano on another floor and I played two songs on there. She was like, “I love it, I get it, let’s do it!”

BGG: So Sylvia Rhone was the one who signed you?
Suai: Yes, it’s crazy and everybody knows it! It’s pressure, but I try not to think about it and just bring it. I’m known as “Sylvia Rhone’s artist” so they know that she’s put out greatness so they expect me to be great, fly and sell millions. It’s pressure but I’m just trying to do me.

BGG: So what’s the music landscape like in Detroit?
Suai: It’s live...meaning instrumentation. There are a lot of independent artists trying to stake their claim in the city. I like the fact that there are so many types of music for everybody. We have a bit of a rock & roll history too. So there’s a little bit of everything. Somewhere I fit in there! There’s a nice little neo-soul movement going on there too now.

BGG: What can listeners expect to hear from your debut release?
Suai: Yay! That’s my favorite question! (laughing) It’s my favorite question because I am very proud of the fact it’s not one genre. It’s at least 4 of 5 that I can hear; someone else might hear something else! I’ve got hip-hop soul, R&B, pop, alternative…there’s something for everybody. Even if it wasn’t me, it’s an album that I’d always play. I’m so excited!

BGG: What producers have you worked with?
Suai: Sylvia Rhone, Bryan-Michael Cox, Polow the Don, Carvin & Ivan, Linda Perry, Nephew, etc. Having being signed for 3 years you can imagine that I’ve worked with a lot of producers some of the biggest and the best, as well as some new up-and-coming ones too.

BGG: Do you know what’s going to be your first single?
Suai: We’re still deciding, but I know I’d like for “Come Out, Come Out” to be the first single. It’s a song that I wrote at home by myself and I co-produced it too; so it’s special to me because it’s showcasing me as a writer, producer and musician because I’m playing keys on it too. I would love to have that as a first single to let people know that I’m not just a voice and a fly outfit! (laughing)

Check out a snippet of her performing here:


BGG: I hear you mention a lot of instruments, how many do you play?
Suai: I play piano, guitar, I’ve studied cello and flute. But I perform on piano mostly and every now and then I pick up the guitar. I’m going to buy a cello one day!! (laughing)

BGG: Who are some of your music role models?
Suai: Growing up I was listening to Brandy! I met her and I did the whole fan thing. I went up to her and said, “Can I have a hug?” (laughing) I’m an 80s/90s baby so people like Jodeci, Guy, K-Ci & JoJo, Next, Blackstreet…you know all of those. From ages 15-17 I was a self-professed jazz head so I was listening to Ella (Fitzgerald) and Billie (Holiday) who are two of my favorite artists. My mom wanted me to be exposed to a lot of different kinds of music.

BGG: How is your music and overall style different from other young R&B female artists?
Suai: I think what’s going to separate me from the pack is that I’m a stage rat. I love to be on stage. I’ve expressed to my label that I want to be on the road 9 to 10 months out of the year. I want to work this album! I don’t care if they’re small club dates or opening for somebody at a stadium, I just want to be out there. I just love to be on the road! Being on stage is it for me. I believe that my passion for the stage is definitely going to help separate me from other artists.

BGG: Years from now, down the road, what would you like to be known for?
Suai: I would want people to know that I was great. I'd love to have the opportunity to open a performing arts boarding school in Detroit. I just feel like performing arts is a universal language. It was given to me and I really appreciate it.

Be on the lookout for her debut CD in the coming months. For more information, check out her website, www.suaionline.com.

Do you remember when some of your favorite artists first started?

For those of you who are in the NYC area, she will be performing tonight at Tillman's at 11pm.

BGG Chats with R&B Singer Lloyd!

From "Get it Shawty," to "Southside," R&B singer, Lloyd has made a name for himself in the pop and R&B world. Hailing from Atlanta, the charismatic singer talks to me about his life and latest CD, Lessons in Love.



Check out our Q&A:

BGG: You seem extremely excited. Are you happy to be here?
Lloyd: I’m here in New York City and I’m extremely happy to be here! This is the city of opportunity that never sleeps! It feels refreshing to be in a place that's alive and full of life. Where I’m from originally, New Orleans, is pretty devastated. It hasn’t been restored to the place of musical genius, exquisite taste or fun-loving people like it used to be. So to come here and just see this place alive feels good.

BGG: When did you move from New Orleans? I know that you currently live in Atlanta.
Lloyd: I’ve been in Atlanta since the age of 2. So basically pretty much all of my life. Ever since my father was murdered, we moved to Atlanta.

BGG: Do you have siblings?
Lloyd: At the time it was just my sister, Brandi, my mom and me. From there, my mom would go on to have 4 more kids.

BGG: Do you want to expound on your father’s passing?
Lloyd: He was shot. It wasn’t the nicest neighborhood where we’re from. In fact, it was the worst neighborhood in New Orleans. My father was a saxophonist, vocalist and choir director. He’s someone who I often credit for giving me my gift. I think it’s hereditary. A lot of things that I do, my mom says reminds her of him. Certain ways I look at her, etc. So I didn’t know him, I just knew about him. Throughout the years he has become probably the foundation of what really drives me to be the best. It's like he didn’t die in vain. He died trying to provide a better life for us. It’s like the ultimate sacrifice he made in order for me to have a better life. If he had never been killed, then we probably never would’ve moved to Atlanta. It’s also taught me to just find the blessings buried in tragedy.

BGG: So I was reading that you used to be a member of the singing group N-Toon? Tell me about that.
Lloyd: We had a single and we had a video. This was back in like 1999. Sammy was out right around that time too. We were all really good friends. We also had the same management. We’re actually still really close to this day.

BGG: Why did you decide to leave the group?
Lloyd: It really wasn’t a decision; it was more like an ultimatum. It was like, if you want to continue doing music, you’re going to have to do it by yourself because for some reason that’s greater than myself the group couldn’t go on. I always try to encourage the guys to get back together.

BGG: How many members were there?
Lloyd: Four, including my little brother!

Lloyd: That’s hot right there!!
BGG: What’s hot? (I didn’t notice that his newest music video, "Girls Around the World," starts playing on the TV while we're talking)

BGG: How does it make you feel when you turn on the TV and there you are?
Lloyd: It makes me feel even better to see Hype (Williams’, the music video director) name up there!! (laughing) It’s a great feeling! It feels like I’m breathing the freshest air right now. It feels like I’m on top of my game and that I’m giving the people all that I can and I feel really good about it.

Check out the video for "Girls Around the World":


BGG: What was it like working with Lil’ Wayne on Lessons in Love?
Lloyd: Well, he’s the hottest rapper in the world so being able to collaborate with him is like an out-of-body experience. I hope to work with him again in the future. We’ve already had a lot of collaborations over the past few years. I think we really have pretty good chemistry. When you’re making music, it’s not rocket science. It’s just feeling, emotion and the moment. It’s about trying to capture special moments in time. You never know if someone is going to like something. I just know that whenever we work, we always enjoy the music that we’re doing. We always have a great time. We’ll be jumping off the walls, saying, “When people hear this they’re going to love it!”

BGG: So was this ("Girls Around the World") song the most fun to record?
Lloyd: Definitely. Out of all of the songs I recorded for this album, this was my favorite; in terms of having to be the most fun while making it. It was very organic. I came in with a bass line idea originally. We had already recorded about 12 songs for the album, so we were near the end of the recording process. The base of the album had already been recorded, but I still wanted that banger. I had the bass line in my head, but I just didn’t know how to get it out! So I called up my friends and they met me at the studio, they called the bass player, the piano player, etc. We ended up creating it right there, starting with the bass line. It was just on and poppin! It was like a party.

BGG: Was Lil’ Wayne there?
Lloyd: No, I sent it to him. You know due to our schedules he wasn’t there.

BGG: How did you get signed to the Inc.?
Lloyd: I met Irv (Gotti) from a friend of a friend and we just hit it off immediately.

BGG: How is this album different from your two previous CDs?
Lloyd: It’s less selfish, it’s not so much about me, me, me – give me what I want, this is how I feel. It’s less about Lloyd and more about the listeners. I’m sharing lessons that I’ve learned with them. Before, I was growing into my own skin. I was just recognizing myself with my fans. Then I was the student, now I’m the teacher! (laughing) The music’s much better. It’s more solid and the ideas are a little bit more advanced. I think that’s good and healthy for your creative mind.

BGG: What do you want your listeners to feel when they hear this album?
Lloyd: I want them to feel good! I want them to feel like they can depend on me to help make them feel better. They can depend on me to be those missing words that will make their love lives a bit better. I want them to feel like this is great music.

BGG: Do you prefer singing ballads or up-tempo tracks?
Lloyd: It doesn’t even matter! It just depends on how you feel. Sometimes I want to party – I want to go fast. I’ll drop my top and play “Get it Shawty,” “Girls Around the World,” etc. Then there are times when I’m at home and I just want something that sets the mood and that’s when the ballads come into play.

BGG: What lessons have you learned pertaining to the music business since the last album?
Lloyd: That thee most challenging thing to do is to challenge yourself. The best thing for music is more challenges. There are more young acts representing for themselves and their families through their music. When I listen to the radio today and hear all of these young kings coming with it, it forces me to do better. It only fuels the drive. At the end of the day, we only have ourselves to fight. You can become your worst enemy, you can lose yourself so you have to have a very strong mind and you have to be willing to push yourself and give people more than what’s expected of you. Now I’m not just writing or singing, I’m I’m executively producing and releasing projects through my own company. I’m taking a bigger stand and I’ve learned that music’s opportunities are limitless.

BGG: What inspired you to create your own label? What kinds of artists are you looking for?
Lloyd: I’m looking for artists who are creative individuals who dare to be different. I’m looking for any genre because I like all music. I love John Mayer, Coldplay, Phil Collins, etc. I just like all music.

BGG: How do you handle female groupies that throw themselves at you? What keeps you focused?
Lloyd: My upbringing, my family, what I stand for ultimately. There are days when I want to succumb to temptation, but then I remember why I’m here and how I got here. Not taking a girl’s heart for granted and realizing that by going out and indulging in these temptations, I’m no really helping out – that’s not the answer to the problem. You know sex and love is misrepresented through the media. Sex is overtly advertised, but nobody wants to talk about before you have sex, you should understand who you are and what you’re looking to get out of your relationship. Love is something that’s supposed to last forever. Sex is just for a moment.

BGG: Will guys feel left out if they bought your Lessons in Love?
Lloyd: No, not at all. That’s the cool thing about my music; I’m the guy that the girls want to be with and the guys want to be like. Not to say that arrogantly, but I want to be the guy who has the song with Rick Ross or just be crazy with it or I want to be the guy who sets the mood. Kind of like John Travolta’s character on Grease; tough guy on the outside, but nice good guy on the inside!

BGG: What do you want people to know about Lloyd?
Lloyd: I want people to know that I’m one of the good guys! I’m looking out for them. I’m not going to be the one who disrespects them. I’m the gentleman of my crew! I want them to know that. I also want them to know that music isn’t just a check for me. It’s something that I really value and cherish and hold dear to my heart. When I record I try to give it all that I have.

Lloyd's CD, Lessons in Love is in stores now.

BGG Chats with R&B Singer Monica!

R&B singer Monica is back, but this time she’s letting you into her world with a new reality TV special called, “The Single.” The songstress, mother of two and soon-to-be wife gives me an update on what she’s been up to.


Check out our Q&A:

BGG: What can viewers expect from your new reality TV special, “The Single?”
Monica: The show is basically focused on us trying to find the first single for my forthcoming fifth album, Still Standing. Trying to select a single can be a very hard process because you’re looking for a song that best represents you as an artist and also be a good representation of the entire body of work, the album itself; so it is quite a process. I actually saw the show for the first time today!

BGG: What made you decide to do a reality TV show?
Monica: Well, I was approached with the idea from a producer who I had known for over a decade and had met through Noontime (record label). He knew that finding a single would be a hard process, so he thought that it would make a good show. At first I was hesitant, but I ended up being very comfortable with the group of people that were put around me for the show.

BGG: Will it show aspects of your personal life or simply just display your professional music side?
Monica: It will absolutely show sides of my personal life. For one, my kids travel with me; I don’t necessarily put them in front of the television person, but they’re always there. My mother and my fiancé…everybody that’s around me will be on there. Before I go to the studio and after I come back from the studio, my family is my number one priority so I have to make sure that home is straight.

Check out this clip from the upcoming show:


BGG: How do you balance being a mother of two and being a hot R&B star?
Monica: It can be very challenging, but you just have to prioritize. I know that my children come first so I just keep things in that order. So, it can be something as simple as making travel arrangements, things are different when you’re traveling with a 3-year-old and a 6-month old; or it could just be me working certain hours, all those things automatically change. So I just keep prioritizing and keep things in a certain order and that has definitely made it a lot less difficult.

BGG: You’ve been in the public’s eye for nearly 15 years now, what do think contributed to your longevity and popularity, especially when so many artists come and go?
Monica: I think just being honest with the people. I’m not perfect, I make mistakes...I think that just being me with all my imperfections has helped me. So I’d rather just be me than someone that I’m not.

BGG: You’ve always seemed so down-to-earth, what keeps you so grounded?
Monica: Your family is always going to be real with you as much as possible when you get out of line or your head gets a little big. You can get checked very easily when your mom or aunts and uncles are always there. Like when I see people now, they have one record and people think you’re only relevant or financially stable at that time. I see people who come out with one record and go gold the first week and then, BOOM!, they hit the red carpet one time and the next thing you know they have 10 bodyguards! (laughing) People have this big misconception that if you haven’t had hits in a while that your celebrity isn’t the same or that financially things aren’t the same, but that couldn’t be the furthest from the truth. I mean if you have 13 or 14 singles, versus one, you would think that common sense would come in to play, but it doesn’t. I stick to my own way and treat people the way that I’d want to be treated – ALWAYS.

BGG: I remember you did some acting in the past; do you plan to revisit that?
Monica: Absolutely! I’ve been home by choice taking care of my children especially with them being in their early stages so I haven’t done as much, but I think this time around I definitely will.

BGG: Speaking of children, I recently saw photos of you and you look FANTASTIC, are you just genetically blessed or do you work out? How did you get your body back so fast?
Monica: You know what? My whole family is really, really slim, so I’m fortunate in that area. But at a couple points in my life, I actually wanted to be thicker. I like the size that I am when I first get pregnant, but once I have my children everything disappears again! (laughing) But I think genetically you’re going to get what you’re going to get. I am learning to eat a little bit better because my mother has high-blood pressure and my father is a diabetic so I’m more conscious from that end; I’m not so much into working out or anything.


Monica with her two sons.

BGG: Having had nearly half a dozen #1 hits, what is your favorite Monica song? Why?
Monica: That’s a hard one! I’d still have to say that there’s something about “Angel of Mine.” It’s just a pleasant record. No matter when I perform it, I never get tired of it. It’s easy to sing and totally different types of people can relate to it. It’s definitely one of my favorites.

BGG: On the upcoming album, are you planning on writing any of the songs or producing?
Monica: I’ve never tried the producing thing, but I do like to stay involved in the writing part. Sometimes we have songwriters that are just so good, that oftentimes I’ll just give them the concept and say, “Here, this is what happened to me. What’s your take on that? What’s a way to bring that song and those lyrics to life that will be relatable no matter what race, color or creed and we’ll do it that way. Sometimes I’ll get records that are just unbelievable and I don’t even have to touch them. For instance, there’s a record I got that’s called, “Believing in Me,” and it’s talking about how when you’ve been in a relationship and you’ve been through a lot that sometimes you lose yourself, it's great! Basically, the process is different with each record.

BGG: What would you like to tell BGG readers that they probably don't already know?
Monica: I just want to say thank you to anybody who has ever supported me whether it was in the 1990s or now, I’m just appreciative that I can still do what I love, which is making music. And you can’t make the music if no one wants to hear it, so I’m just appreciative of that. Hopefully, they’ll like Still Standing!

"The Single: Monica" will air tomorrow (Aug. 5th) on Peachtree TV at 10pm EST. Right now, it can only be viewed in Atlanta, but stay tuned to see if it gets pickd up nationally.

BGG Chats with R&B Singer Jazmine Sullivan!

Just when you were afraid that great soul singing was a thing of the past, R&B newcomer, Jazmine Sullivan, is here to put all of your fears to rest. This 21-year-old Philadelphia native is heating up the airwaves with her soulful, reggae-infused hit single, "Need U Bad," from her forthcoming debut disc, Fearless. Signed to J Records, Jazmine's poignant, strong and sultry voice is sure to get noticed. With production by Missy Elliott, Salaam Remi, Jack Splash, Tricky, Wyclef, Stargate and more, Fearless, will definitely be the album that everyone is talking about it.

I recently had a chance to interview the budding superstar diva.

Check out our Q&A:

BGG: When did you know that you wanted to become a professional singer? Did you sing in church while growing up?
JS: Yes, I started when I was about 5 or 6. My actual earliest memory of singing was in my mom’s plays at church. She used to throw plays at church. But I decided to sing R&B professionally at the age of 12. My parents were very supportive even though my mother was really strict; we didn’t listen to a lot of R&B.

BGG: Did you grow up in a large family?
JS: I guess it’s considered large, but it doesn’t seem that large to me. They’re not a lot of singers either. My mom sang when she was younger and her sister did a bit too, but now I’m pretty much the only one who sings. They supported me with the decision to sing so my mom got me hooked up with an organization called, The Black Lily, in Philadelphia, which was started by the Jazzy Phat Nasties. It was a place for female singers to get their chance to shine. So I sang there like every other Tuesday so I would go there, sing at night and then get up early the next morning and go to school. It was crazy! (laughing)

BGG: I’m sure it was worth it since you were doing what you loved.
JS: Yeah, it was! I got a chance to watch and learn from performers like Floetry, Kindred…I got a chance to soak up all of the things that they do that make them great. I got signed when I was 16 to Jive Records…(long pause) It didn’t work out! (laughing) I think the main reason was because I was so young and I didn’t really know who I was as an artist and the vision they had for me wasn’t what I wanted. In the end, it ended up being a blessing in itself because it gave me time to grow and I got better at my writing, which eventually led me to getting signed to J (Records)!

BGG: What do you think about the constant comparisons between your voice and Lauryn Hill’s? I know you’ve heard that so many times!
JS: Yes, I’ve heard it a million times! I never thought before this song came out that I’d be compared to Lauryn because I didn’t think that we sounded anything alike. But it’s not a bad thing, Lauryn’s a great artist, I love her, I listen to her! I listened to the Miseducation of Lauryn Hill about a million times so it’s safe to say that she’s influenced me; but I think because of the reggae vibe of the first single, it’s easy to make that comparison, but once people hear the rest of the album, they’ll be like, “She’s nothing like Lauryn Hill.” I mean it’s cool; she’s a great artist.

BGG: What inspired the hit, “Need U Bad?”
JS: It was a feeling thing. I was in the studio working with Missy (Elliott) and she presented the track and it just felt good. Lyrically the song speaks to me. The sound made me want to write something to it. The track made me want to sing “need u bad.” Once we did it and actually while we were doing it, we realized that it was special.

BGG: What was it like shooting your first music video? Was it what you expected?
JS: Yeah, it was really everything that I expected. Long hours, tiring, work, but it was fun. I had a wonderful director, Jonathan Mannion, who coached me through it realizing that it was my first video. It was not a lot of pressure on set; it was kind of like, “go ahead, do your thing.” The way he filmed it made it easier. Filming me doing things that I’m used to doing in my element like, which is either recording or performing live so it was cool.

BGG: Where did you shoot it?
JS: We shot it in Brooklyn.

Check out her debut video below:



BGG: How would you describe your forthcoming debut CD?
JS: Different. It’s different from anything else. It’s real and relatable. The subjects that I’m speaking about, people feel and I don’t think a lot of people touch on the subjects that I talk about on my album. Musically, it’s all things that I’ve been influenced by so far so there’s a bit of hip-hop, of course R&B, jazz, reggae, pop, it’s everything in there.

BGG: What are some of the subjects that you talk about?
JS: What subjects don’t I talk about! (laughing) There’s one song that seems to be getting good feedback called, “Bust Your Windows.” I’m not really promoting violence or really busting somebody’s windows out. The main message in that song is about there being consequences to infidelity on anybody’s part. You know, love can really make you do some really crazy things, but know that there are always consequences to your actions.

BGG: I know that you’ve been singing since you were 5-years-old, but do you ever get nervous while performing? If so, what do you do to get over the butterflies?
JS: No, not really. I guess it’s because I’ve been doing it for so long that it’s become second nature. I just get so much love (when I’m on stage) that it just feels good to just release.

BGG: What makes your sound unique from the other R&B female artists on the airwaves today?
JS: I think first my voice, I don’t think there are a lot of people who sound like me. Secondly, I’d say my lyrics. I personally, don’t hear many females speaking about the things I speak about sets me apart. Plus, the fact that I’m a writer too; I’ve written my whole album.

BGG: I know that you’ve penned songs for other artists in the past, such as Christina Milian, are you still writing for other artists? If so, who?
JS: No, I really focus on getting my stuff out. I’ve been on the backburner for so long so I’ve just been focused all on my album. But of course I’d like to write for other artists. I would like to submit a song to Fantasia. I’m actually supposed to.

BGG: If you could choose to do a duet with anyone who would it be? Why?
JS: Andre 3000. He’s creative and I love to be around creative people. Also, Kanye West. I love being around people who aren’t afraid to be different and try different things.

BGG: What’s in the water in Philadelphia? That city has spawned so many great musical acts. Do you think that artists from Philadelphia have a unique sound?
JS: There is a rich history there of soulful music. Gamble & Huff were pioneers of hit records. They were great writers and their songs have stood the test of time and are even relevant today. I think that people who come from Philly, we know that’s what the background is and we want to carry it on.

BGG: What’s next for you? Are you going on a promotional tour?
JS: I’m doing a lot of radio promo right now and I do have a couple of shows lined up. So we’ll be probably going on tour soon.

BGG: What do you want people to know about, Jazmine Sullivan?
JS: Jazmine Sullivan is very thankful for all of the support that she’s been getting. This is what I love to do. I’m just grateful that I have this opportunity. I’ve been waiting for this moment for so long and it’s just overwhelming that I really get to do what I love.
Just keep supporting and I’ll keep making good music.

**While in the process of recording and promoting her album, Jazmine will give fans an inside look into her life by leaving voice mail updates along her journey. Fans can call Jazmine at (215) 789-4753 to hear her updates and leave messages!

BGG Chats with R&B Singer Ashanti

I recently had a chance to chat with Grammy award-winning R&B singer, Ashanti. Known for her catchy lyrics and heartfelt tunes, this Long Island native is back and hotter than ever. Her latest single, "The Way that I Love You," is climbing the charts and is in heavy rotation across the country. She's declaring that she's no longer "Foolish."

Check out our Q&A:

BGG: Tell me a bit about your new album, "The Declaration." What makes it different from your other CDs?

Ashanti: Well this is my first album in 4 years. I’ve done a lot of growing up and I did basically everything on my own this time around with the project. I executively produced the entire thing…behind-the-scenes and the creative process. So I’m really excited about it. It’s very versatile and you can just tell sonically, musically, vocally and lyrically I’m at a different place than with my last album; so I’m very excited!

BGG: What producers did you work with this time around?

Ashanti: I worked with a whole bunch of producers. Every single one didn’t make the album, but the fact that I was able to work with them was really an amazing experience for me. From Babyface to L.T. Hutton (who actually worked on her latest single), Pharrell, Jermaine Dupri, Brian Cox, Polow, Rodney Jerkins, Robin Thicke, 7 Aurelius – a lot of very talented producers.

BGG: What’s your relationship with the Inc.?

Ashanti: The Inc. is signed to Universal so it’s the Inc/Universal. And that’s what it is (laughing)!

BGG: What’s your next single?

Ashanti: I’m not sure yet, which is a really good position to be in because we have 2 or 3 really great candidates. We’ll see!

BGG: I know that you write all of your songs. What’s the inspiration behind your lyrics?

Ashanti: Just real life. Usually it’s something that I’m going through or something that I’ve gone through or something that people who are in my circle are going through or have gone through. No matter what, it’s always something that is real. I’ve always been really genuine and sincere with my lyrics and I think that’s why a lot of people can relate to my records. I’ve just always had a passion for writing so I feel like when you hear a record and you can relate to it, it’s like “Ah,” it’s such a wonderful feeling. It’s like, “I’m not the only one going through this!”

BGG: Are you going on tour this summer for the album?

Ashanti: Definitely, I’m not sure when, but I’m definitely excited about touring.

BGG: Tell me your secret to staying in great shape!

Ashanti: It’s about being healthy. I do have a trainer. I do try to hit the gym as much as I can. I don’t eat a lot of fried foods and I don’t eat red meat or pork. That’s just my own personal preference. It’s just about being in shape and again trying to hit the gym. If you really 'wild-out' with pizza, chicken, cake and all kinds of stuff then you really should hit the gym. You have to make up for it.

BGG: I know you once wrote a book of poetry (Foolish/Unfoolish), do you think you’d ever do something like that again?

Ashanti: Yes! I had a really good time writing that. I’ve been thinking about doing another book. I’m not sure if it will be poetry, maybe or maybe not. I have had an idea of doing a book called, “Ashanti’s Style.” It would basically be about beauty secrets and fashion tips. A lot of behind the scenes stuff that most people don’t talk about too much like, the miracles of double-stick tape! (laughing) Look for that maybe later this year or early next year.

BGG: If you could do a duet with someone that you admire, who would it be?

Ashanti: Wow, I don’t know. I’ve honestly taken it one step at a time and working with a variety of producers is already a huge step for me. I’ve always worked with in-house producers. But as far as collaborating, I feel like anytime you get two artists in the studio, you could potentially come up with something incredible just with a lot of talent and creative juice flowing, but I don’t have anybody particularly in mind right now. I’m still stuck on the high of, “wow, I’ve worked with so many different producers this year alone!”

BGG: What are a few of your must-have beauty products?

Ashanti: Lip-gloss!! MAC! Recently, I’ve actually been into the MAC color glosses for the last couple of months.

BGG: I’ve seen a few photos of you in shades similar to what you’re wearing now.

Ashanti: Yeah, I like it. Oh and lotion. I have 3 things of lotion (travel size) in this bag right now. You never know when you’re going to have to lotion up those toes! (laughing)

BGG: Your latest video, "The Way That I Love You," is like a mini-movie; are you working on any new movie projects?

Ashanti: I definitely want to venture more into the movie side of things. I had a really good time filming all of the films that I’ve been in. It’s a different experience than recording. It’s good so I definitely want to get back into it. I’ve been out in L.A a couple of times this month working on a couple of things so I have my fingers crossed!

Check out her video here:

BGG: Is there in any role that you’re more drawn to than others?

Ashanti: For me I would love to get everything in one big ball – drama, comedy, action and romance! That would be ideal for me.

BGG: What would you like your fans to know about you that they might not already know?

Ashanti: Well, I don’t know because they usually know everything! (laughing).
Wow, I guess I would tell them about…(long pause) My favorite bike was my Strawberry Shortcake bike that I received when I was 5-years-old. It was pink and I got a pink jacket to go with it. The bike had a basket with strawberries on it!! I loved it! It was my best toy for like so many years! (Her mom adds, more like “FOREVER!”) And I would always wear my pink jacket with my pink and red bike!

BGG: Is there anything else that you want readers to know?

Ashanti: ALBUM IN STORES JUNE 3rd!!! Oh yeah, I also have this website site called, Gotchagram.com, which is a viral tool that you can use if you find out if that your boyfriend or girlfriend is cheating on you, you send them this email blast that you can fill out and customize. It shows a snippet of my video (The Way That I Love You) and basically it says my boyfriend is cheating on me and the way I’m going to get him back is that I’m going to put a boot up in his ass! You can use a boot, Timbaland, high-heel, a machete or whatever it is and you kind of put him on blast so you can be like, "I caught you!" And he could be guilty of not being emotionally available, he cheated, or he’s trying to talk to your cousin and you just put him on blast! You have to see it! Just log-on to www.thewaythatiloveyou.com.

Music Spotlight: Mariah Carey

My favorite singer of all time is the 8-octave-hitting, Mariah Carey. Now that she's officially surpassed Elvis' record of the amount of #1 singles on the Billboard Hot 100 charts (2nd to the Beatles), Mariah has definitely and justifiably secured her a place in the record books. Her current single, "Touch My Body," is Mariah's 18th chart-topper.

I remember the first time I heard her first single, "Vision of Love," back in 1990 when I was 10-years-old. I thought, "Wow, this person sounds like Whitney Houston." I don't know, maybe it was because I was only a kid and couldn't differentiate voices that well, but nonetheless I loved what I heard!

Now nearly 2 decades later I'm still enjoying Mariah's music. No one can sing a pop/R&B tune like her!! That's why I am anxiously awaiting the release of her latest CD, E=MC2 on April 16th.

What is your favorite Mariah song?


Mariah Carey, 1990


Emotions, 1991


Merry Christmas, 1994


Daydream, 1995


Butterfly, 1997


Rainbow, 1999


Glitter, 2001


Charmbracelet, 2002


The Emancipation of Mimi, 2005


E=MC2, 2008

New Artist Spotlight - Karina Pasian

While most teenagers wish their voices can be heard about different issues, Karina Pasian speaks for them in her catchy, debut single, "16 at War," which is an anthem of independence and admiration. The newly signed Def Jam R&B recording artist is only 16, but well on her way to becoming the next "it" girl to hit the airwaves. Her song is already in heavy rotation at New York City radio stations.

This New York native's strong voice has caught the ear of many heavy-hitters in the industry, including the legendary musical genius -- Quincy Jones, who happens to be her godfather. Her powerful, yet pristine voice has even been heard at the White House where she performed last year for an Emilio Estevez-produced event. Karina has also worked with popular artists such as Chris Brown, The Dream, Ne-Yo and others.

Having had a passion for singing since a toddler, Karina is a record company's dream -- she's talented, likable and is cute as a button!

I recently had a chance to speak with the musical ingenue.

Check out our Q&A:

BGG: How did you get signed to Def Jam?
Karina: My A&R, Shakir Stewart, called L.A Reid and told him that he had to come and hear me. L.A Reid was actually on his way to Paris, but came back, heard me and signed me on the spot. Jay-Z closed the deal. There was actually a bidding war for me between record companies, but I decided to go with Def Jam.

BGG: Who are your musical inspirations?
Karina: Stevie Wonder, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Sarah Vaughn, Ella Fitzgerald and Beyonce.

BGG: Describe your musical style and what people can expect to hear on your forthcoming release?
Karina: It's more like real R&B with pop/dance and hip-hop. It's definitely real R&B.

BGG: What sets you apart from other artists out right now?
Karina: I think the main thing that separates me from other people who are out, is the message that I deliver. I sing and perform songs that have substance, integrity and story lines that touch people. I really want my music to change people's lives.

BGG: Who would you like to work with in the industry that you haven't worked with already?
Karina: Stevie Wonder! I admire him a lot. It would really be a pleasure to work with him.

BGG: What do you want to be known for in the music industry?
Karina: I want to be known as a real artist who is not labeled as Hispanic, but a person who respects herself and has substance.


Here is her song, "16 at War." She doesn't have a video for it yet, but I thought you guys might want to hear it!

BGG: What do you do in your spare time for fun?
Karina: I'm just a regular girl. I still go to school. I love to talk on the phone and go to the movies. You know, just regular girl stuff!

BGG: Who do you enjoy listening to on your iPod?
Karina: I love Brandy. I also listen to a lot of gospel including Kim Burrell & Yolanda Adams, as well as Chris Brown, The Dream (he wrote her single, "16 at War" and Rihanna's "Umbrella"), Beyonce, etc.

BGG: Have you come up with the title for your CD yet, which will be released this summer?
Karina: No, not yet, we're still working on it!

BGG: What advice do you have for other young singers looking to get signed to a major label?
Karina: My advice would be to always stay grounded, work hard and put your all into it. Also, get a good team; they will keep you grounded.

Pop Princess of All Time: Miss Jackson

When I think of a timeless pop icon, only one name comes to mind – Miss Janet Damita Jo Jackson. Often referred to as the sole “sane” sibling of the Jackson bunch, Janet has been making chart-topping pop hits since many of us were born. What BGs and probably some guys didn’t dance in front of the mirror to “Control” or “Pleasure Principle” back in the day? I know I’m not the only one!

Janet always has sing-along, catchy hooks and enviable dance moves that consistently separate her from the cookie-cutter masses. Granted, her voice may not be as strong or intense as some of her counterparts, but she definitely holds her own.

Her latest CD, Discipline (Island Def Jam), which was released yesterday is her 10th studio album to date. It has a funky futuristic sound sprinkled with synthesizers and up-tempo beats. There are several good tracks on the album, my favorite being – "Luv."

The downside of Discipline is that there are too many unnecessary interludes that add nothing to the project. Janet might be in her 40s, but most of these young pop/R&B girls still don’t have anything on Miss Jackson!

What’s your favorite Janet song or CD?


Janet Jackson, 1982


Dream Street, 1984


Control, 1986


Rhythm Nation, 1989


Janet, 2003


The Velvet Rope, 1997


All For You, 2001


Damita Jo, 2006


20 Y.O, 2006


Discipline, 2008