In an effort to further explore the myriad and "Komplicated" musical tastes of the modern "post-Black" denizens of the world, we present Spin City, which will feature recommendations from some of the world’s finest DJs, Joining resident turntablist DJ Jedi, we're proud to present the musical musings of Brutha Gimel (also known as Gimel Hooper), a double threat who not only is well known for his skills on the wheels, but also as a spoken word artist of considerable renown and one of the co-founders of LA's long-running venue Da Poetry Lounge. After missing his second slot, we now present Gimel's favorites for this week …
- "Glory," Jay-Z feat. Blue Ivy
One of this week's biggest celebrity headlines comes with a theme song. That's what's up. The sign of a true poet and emcee is when life happens, there has to be a song to accompany the and document the moment. I love the way modern technology helps these types of songs hit the airwaves almost spontaneously. I now wonder what was the timeline for Stevie Wonder recording "Isn't She Lovely" after his baby girl was born. Hmmm.
NOTE: Available for download in this week's #musicmonday column.
- "Stay Scheming" remix, Rick Ross feat. Drake, French Montana, Common
Awwww, yeah! I good old fashion hip hop beef! Finally a lyrical war of words worth talking about. Common responds to Drake by doing a remix on the song which he (Drake) is featured on! To top it all off, Common left Drake's verse on the remix. Yes! Usually on a dis record where somebody jacks a beat, all of the original vocals are stripped off but nooooooo, Common wanted the people to have Drake's response readily available for the public to compare. Genius! I'm not gonna get into the words that are said. You listen and enjoy yourself. I'm just saying, somebody got b**** slapped. - "Nine to Five," Zoowax
Here's a tasty lil joint I think every person waking up to go to a job that they don't love can appreciate. The melody is quite catchy and can possibly make you smile or help improve your attitude before you walk into your place of employment. With that you can have a smile while sacrificing and slaving away your life. Haha. I love this song cause I have been there. The vocals are by Novena Caramel of Baby Stone who happens to be the daughter of Sly of The Family Stone. Here's your morning drive pick me up. With the video you can get a comical smile while on the job.
- "Here I Go," Rochelle Jordan
I like it when I find new artists on the come up. Of course it helps to have a tight beat that you can dance to to get you over. I like Rochell's smooth Amel Lerrieux style vocals. Not much more to say except, she has other clips and videos to enjoy. I think she can have a presence in the industry. She got my attention.
- "Let's Groove," Teen Daze
If you have been following my column, you will know that every so often I hitcha with a uptempo dance suggestion. This particular joint caught my attention because it has a sample of an Earth, Wind & Fire dance classic and who did dance music like The Elements. This version is more of a house style with modern electro effects. I will be spinning this one for all of my +40 Studio 54 retro dance club heads. Lol.
Don't forget to check me out at Da Poetry Lounge and every Sunday night at Hot Wax martini lounge.
Barring unforeseen challenges, Brutha Gimel's Spin City should be waiting for you, right here on Komplicated.com, every Tuesday afternoon.
[Source: Brutha Gimel]