The BackBeat: Recent Episodes
The BackBeat
In this week's episode, we discuss Meek Mill's new album Championships. We discuss our favorite tracks and his criminal justice reform activism. We also discuss Ariana Grande's record breaking video, thank u, next. Enjoy!
It's been a minute, but only Mariah Carey could get us back together to give a review on all things "Caution." If you haven't listened to Mariah's new album, get into our review before you do and then go check it out!
We are Back!!!
It is only right that we bless you with an episode just a few days after The Carters blessed us with their Everything Is Love album! We get into our favorite songs and discuss the Apeshit video. The Carters aren't the only artists who put on new music though. We get into Christina Aguilera's long awaited new project Liberation and discuss where she ranks as a vocalist for our generation. Then, we get into Nas' album Nasir, which also dropped last week, and whether or not it was a misstep for him to not address Kelis' domestic abuse allegations against him. We end the episode with a reflection on XXXTentacion's recent murder and the need to have tough conversations about violence against women in the Hip Hop industry.
It feels so good to be back. Enjoy the latest episode!
This week on The BackBeat, we get into Diddy speaking on hip hop getting diluted, FunkMaster Flex tagging “wack rappers” in Diddy’s post, Jay Z producing a docu-series on the late Trayvon Martin with the Paramount Network, and an announcement that Spotify's Tuma Basa, curator of the influential RapCaviar Playlist has decided to leave the company. We also get into Donald Glover’s New Yorker Interview, and SZA’s new Fader covers where she discusses her feelings after The GRAMMYS. As always stay tuned to the end to hear who we are listening to from Sampha, Janelle Monae, Khalid, Kendrick Lamar, Slim Jimmy, and more!
On this week’s episode of The BackBeat, we get into the latest topics in music. We discuss the rumors that Rihanna will release a new album this year and go on tour. Next, we discuss Meek Mill’s legal issues and the love he has received from his fans from the Super Bowl and at the Olympics. We discuss Nicki Minaj’s disappearance from the inter webs which has her fans in a tizzy. Finally, we breakdown what we love about The New Black Panther album and have a brief Tinashe appreciation day. Stay tuned to the end of the episode where we discuss our favorite songs from The Black Panther Soundtrack, Ravyn Lenae, Sabrina Claudio, Khalid, Blockboy JB, Normani, and Drake. We hope you enjoy!
This week on The BackBeat, we get into Drake, Mary J. Blige, and Camila Cabello making history, changes to music streaming at Billboard, Charlemagne’s comments about Amara la Negra, and Erykah Badu’s weird interview with Vulture. We also get into Nick Cannon’s “interesting” covers of music from SZA, H.E.R., and Kehlani.
On this week’s episode, we breakdown some of 2018’s newest music. We fan out over the Bruno Mars and Cardi B collab “Finesse.” We also debate whether or not Bruno Mars appropriates black music and culture. Next, we get into Justin Timberlake’s “Filthy” and his upcoming Superbowl performance that should include an appearance from Janet Jackson. We, also, stan over the latest release from H.E.R. We end the episode with the albums we are most excited about this year. We can’t wait to check out new music from Ariana Grande, Cardi B, Toni Braxton, Celine Dion Camilla Cabello, Migos, Nicki Minaj and more.
This Week on The BackBeat, we get into the 2018 GRAMMY nominations and talk through some of our favorite nominees. From Album of the Year to Best Urban Contemporary Album, we have you covered. Later we get into the passing of Lil Peep and the importance of discussing addiction and mental illness. We've been gone for too long but it's time we brought it back! ;)
On this week’s episode, we discuss Tina Campbell’s less than smart choice to vote for Donald Trump for president. We discuss Azealia Bank’s apology to Nicki Minaj and beef with Cardi B. Speaking of Cardi B, we praise her achievement of securing the first number 1 record by a solo female rapper since Lauryn Hill’s Doo Wop (That Thing) in 1998. We end the episode with a brief discussion of Jhene Aiko’s top 5 debut for her new album, Trip.
Stay tuned to the end of the episode to hear our songs of the moment. Marcus chooses new cuts from Tamar Braxton, Ledisi and Kygo. Kyera breaks down her favorite songs by Jamila Woods, Ravyn Lenae, and Daniel Caesar.
Enjoy!
This week on The BackBeat, we get into a petition starting to get Missy Elloitt a monument in Virginia, Aaliyah and Nicki Minaj's Mac Cosmetic Collections, Mystikal turning himself in on rape charges, and a woman coming forward breaking her nondisclosure agreement with R. Kelly surrounding his latest scandal.
Also, make sure you tune into the end of the podcast for songs of the moment from Ledisi, Nicole Nicole Scherzinger, Mary J. Blige, Tyler the Creator, and more!
This week on The BackBeat, we talk about Brandy claiming Whitney Houston passed her the torch. We cover the success of Cardi B's "Bodak Yellow" on the Hot 100. Next, we delve into Trina's beef with a local Miami rapper and we congratulate Cyn Santana and Joe Budden on their new baby. Also, we give a shout out to Kelly Rowland, who is in the studio working on her new album and much more.
Stay tuned to the end of the episode when we choose our songs of the moment. Marcus chooses tracks from Jazmine Sullivan and Whitney Houston. Kyera's favorite songs of the moment come from Kelela, Dreezy and Cassie.
Enjoy :)
This week on The Backbeat, we get into Usher's herpes scandal, R. Kelly's cult, Jay Z's 444 & Tidal issues, and Justin Bieber being banned from China.
Also make sure you tune into the end of the episode when we get into our songs of the moment from Meek Mill, Two Chainz, Sza, Demi Lovato, and Cardi B.
This week on The BackBeat, we get into Sza’s Ctrl Tour (which sadly we didn’t get tickets for), Jay Z’s 4:44 bonus tracks and upcoming feature for the album, delve into new music from Kesha, and talk about Sevyn Streeter releasing her highly anticipated and delayed album Girl Disrupted. We also talk about Pharrell getting in the studio to work on new albums with Ariana Grande and Justin Timberlake.
As always, make sure you stay tuned until the end of the episode for songs of the moment that include Mya, Swae Lee, Drake, Cardi B, Jessie Reyez, and 2 Chainz.
This week on The BackBeat, we take a moment to celebrate the life of rap legend, Prodigy from the group Mobb Deep. Excited for the BET Awards? We discuss the 2017 BET Nominees and give our projections on which artists will win awards on Sunday. Next, we get into Swizz Beatz calling Balenciaga out on instagram for replicating a Ruff Ryder shirt in their upcoming line without giving proper credit to the record label or asking to use their logo. We end with our love for DJ Khaled’s new song “Wild Thoughts” featuring Rihanna & Bryson Tiller, which has debuted at #3 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Stay tuned to the end of the episode where we give our favorite songs of the moment. Marcus picks tracks from Whitney Houston, DJ Khaled and Little Dragon. While Kyera chooses her favorite cuts from Lizzo, Hiatus Kaiyote and Vince Staples.
On this week's episode of The BackBeat, we get into Mary J. Blige's temporary spousal support payments to her soon to be ex, Taylor Swift being petty by releasing her entire discography for streaming on the same day as Katy Perry's "Witness" album, as well as our thoughts on the recent struggles Katy Perry has been having regarding her album. Additionally, we get into H.E.R.'s short film ahead of her forthcoming second EP, Jhene Aiko's new single and video for "While We're Young," as well as gush over our love for SZA's new album "Crtl."
On this week's episode of The BackBeat, we discuss Miley Cyrus and her claim that Hip Hop is too sexist for her. Next, we get into the debacle of the Fyre Festival that has Ja Rule looking like a scammer in these streets. We briefly discuss the drama between Ms. Aretha, Dionne, and Gladys. Make sure you stay tuned in until the end of the episode for our favorite songs of the moment. Kyera chooses cuts from DJ Khalid ft. Quavo, Justin Bieber, Chance the Rapper and Lil Wayne. As well as new jams from Goldlink and SZA. Marcus selects jams from Tamar Braxton, Kendrick Lamar and Sabrina Claudio.
In this week's episode, we briefly talk about the success of Kendrick Lamar's DAMN, Migos wanting the little boy who went viral to be in their next video, how women have been shut out of Billboard's Hot 100 this week, and K. Michelle's latest Twitter comments about Loni Love and Angela Yee. Additionally, we get into Tinashe's new video for "Flame" and speculate on why Black female artists aren't getting the push they deserve.
Make sure you tune into the end of our episode where we get into our songs of the moment that include Ja Rule, Ashanti, Bow Wow, Ariana Grande, Lil Kim, Zara Larsson, & Tank and the Bangas.
In our latest episode of The Backbeat, we celebrate the best singers born during Aries season. Next, we discuss Kendrick Lamar’s new single “Humble” and the backlash he’s received from women on Twitter. We also get into French Montana’s disappointing comments about Black women on social media. Finally, we end the episode with a discussion of Kendall Jenner’s problematic Pepsi ad, which seeks to unite protestors and police officers with an ice cold Pepsi Cola (major side eye!) We hope you enjoy the episode
In this week's episode, we interview the very talented Davion Farris, who is a GRAMMY-nominated singer/songwriter/producer. Davion just released his debut EP Trenier and we talk to him about the inspiration behind this effort in addition to his favorite tracks from the EP.
During our interview, Davion delves deep into his inspirations, his favorite current artists, his writing process, where he sees himself in 5-10 years, artists' political responsibilities, in addition to cluing us in on how he got his start in the industry at the tender age of nine. Make sure you tune into the end of the episode especially where Davion opens up about the economic climate of the music industry and offers up some great insight into how an independent artist can make her or his livelihood from the music.
This week on The BackBeat, we get into the controversy surrounding the GRAMMY Awards and album of the year, Donald Glover getting cast as Simba in the new Lion King film remake, Russell Simmons hosting a Muslim rally, as well as Meek Mill using his social media platforms to discuss gun violence. We also get into The Roots having a new musical that is slated to be performed at the NBA All Star Game this weekend in New Orleans.
As always, tune into the end of the episode to hear our Songs of the Moment that include music from Remy Ma and Fat Joe, Future, Jidenna, Trey Songz, Davion Farris, Solange, and Whitney “The Voice” Houston.
Beyonce’s PREGNANT with twins!!!! We discuss how she kicked off Black History Month with her announcement and whether or not she will perform at the Grammys and Coachella. Next, we discuss Mariah Carey’s new single “I Don’t” featuring YG and the iconic scene of her burning her 250 thousand dollar wedding dress. Lauren Jauregui of Fifth Harmony gets political while disagreeing with Trump’s “Muslim Ban.” Also, Nicki Minaj accuses Giuseppe Zanotti of racism with the “Nicki” shoe. Finally, Faith Hill does not have a duet album with Biggie but Faith Evans does! It’s called the King and I and it will drop on May 19th.
Stay tuned to the end of the episode where we choose our songs of the moment. Marcus picks tracks from Kehlani, Lennon and Maisy, and Donell Jones. Kyera is bumping new songs from Big Sean, The Migos, and Syd.
In this week's episode of The BackBeat, we get into Kanye West not being invited to perform at the inauguration while Chrisette Michele and Jennifer Holliday were. We also get into Alicia Keys pushing back against gender norms as well as Taylor Bennett and Makonnen coming out as bisexual and gay respectivley.
Make sure you tune into the end of the episode to get into our songs of the moment. Kyera choses songs from The Brothers Johnson, Funkadelic, and Prince. Meanwhile Marcus selects songs from Jimmy Scott, Ariana Grande, as well as Sevyn Streeter
In this week’s episode, we give a shoutout to Janet Jackson who just gave birth to her son Eissa Al Mana, talk about Chris Brown and Soulja Boy feuding over Karrueche Tran, get into Kim Burrell coming sideways at the LGBT community, and breakdown Mariah Carey's NYE performance.
In this week’s episode, we breakdown the 2017 GRAMMY nominations from Beyonce, Kanye West, Drake, Chance the Rapper, Rihanna, and Adele leading the pack to some of the omissions including Laura Mvula, Alessia Cara, and Travis Scott. We also get into J Cole’s new album, Jeremih getting kicked off PartyNextDoor’s tour, and Nicki Minaj coming under fire for posting an Instagram video of a mentally ill woman. We end with a shout-out to Venus in Leo's fundraising campaign for queer youth in homeless shelters. Find out more information here: https://www.generosity.com/community-fundraising/non-toxic-bodycare-for-folks-living-in-dc-shelters--2
Enjoy the episode!
In this week’s episode, we discuss Kanye West and Azealia Banks reaction to the Trump Presidency. We get into Aretha Franklin’s beautiful rendition of the national anthem at the Detroit Lions Game. Speaking of legends like Ms. Aretha Franklin, we discuss the upcoming VH1 Hollywood Divas special with performances from Mariah Carey, Teyana Taylor, and more. Next, we get into Jay Z’s multi-million dollar bid for Prince’s unreleased music before we end by talking about new music from Alicia Keys, Tinashe, Emeli Sande, Bruno Mars and The Weeknd. We hope you enjoy the episode!
This week’s episode we get into Sevyn Streeter being unable to sing the national Anthem at 76ers game, Amy Schumer attempting to get in “Formation,” Ice Cube putting his own twist on a forthcoming Disney musical adaptation of “Oliver Twist, as well as Kevin Gates getting sentenced to 6 months in jail for kicking a fan in the chest. We also talk briefly about Raven Symone leaving The View for a “That’s So Raven” spin-off, JLO starring in NBC’s forthcoming live musical adaptation of “Bye Bye Birdie,” and Ciara’s buddle of joy!
Also don’t forget to check out our songs of the moment from Meek Mill, Joe Budden, NoName, Emeli Sande, H.E.R., and Tamar Braxton.
In this week’s episode, we discuss Nicki Minaj’s new interview with Marie Claire in which she talks about being an entrepreneur and the double standards for black women in the entertainment industry. We touch upon Kid Cudi’s new video “Frequency” and the awareness he is bringing to mental health. Next, we discuss Emeli Sande’s new song “Garden” ft. Jay Electronica and her upcoming album, which we can’t wait to hear. We run through the nominees for the 2016 American Music Awards--where Drake and Bryson Tiller scored huge nominations. Finally, we plug Michel’le’s movie “Surviving Compton,” which airs on Lifetime this Saturday (October 15th) at 8pm.
Don’t forget to stay tuned in until the end of the episode to hear our Songs of the Moment. Marcus chooses cuts from Aretha Franklin, Mary J Blige, Whitney Houston, and DVSN. Kyera gives us some of her favorite songs from Mahalia Jackson, Solange Knowles, and Vince Staples!
Enjoy!
This week on The Backbeat, we get into Mary J Blige singing to HIllary Clinton, Solange dropping her new album A Seat At the Table, as well as new music from The Weeknd. We also talk about Tinashe exposing sexism within the music industry and give a shout out to Shawty Lo who recently passed away in ATL.
Be sure to tune into the end of the episode where Kyera gives us songs of the moment from Shawty Lo, Usher and Mac Miller. Marcus also gives us some jams from SZA, SG Lewis featuring Gallant and a collaboration between Yuna and Usher.
Enjoy!
This week, we briefly get into the VMAs and discuss Lady Gaga’s latest career and new song Perfect Illusion, which is an interesting fusion of pop, rock, and disco. We also get into Kanye West’s Yeezy 4 Fashion Show, which has been getting more criticism than praise. Next, we discuss Tyga signing to Good Music and Ariana Grande’s upcoming tour and her new skills as a rapper. We end our hot topics with a discussion of Sean Paul’s critiques of Drake and Justin Bieber in regards to the appropriation of dancehall in mainstream music.
Stay tuned to the end of the episode where we break down our favorite songs of the moment. Marcus chooses hits from Laura Mvula, 99 Souls, and Tinashe. Kyera’s favorite songs right now come from K. Michelle, Travis Scott ft. Andre 3000, and D.R.A.M ft. Lil Yachty. Enjoy the show!
This week, we get into Frank Ocean’s highly anticipated new album Blonde, which has caused quite the commotion in the music industry. Find out what we love about the album. We also celebrate Aaliyah’s musical legacy after the 15th year anniversary of her passing. Finally, we commend Questlove for his new position as the first ever artist and strategic ambassador for Pandora. We can’t wait to tune in to his new radio program called Questlove Supreme on the streaming site.
Stay tuned to our Songs of the Moment. Kyera picks her favorite tracks from Frank Ocean while Marcus chooses cuts from Ocean’s album Blonde, The Get Down, and Janelle Monae. ENJOY!
This week on The Backbeat, we talk about Jhene Aiko filing for divorce, Rihanna being cast in Ocean’s Ocho as well as receiving the 2016 MTV Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award. In addition we get into Jennifer Lopez being cast as Griselda Blanco in an HBO Original Film, Fantasia’s “The Definition Of…,” and Chance the Rapper’s Billboard cover story.
Make sure you stay tune until the end to hear songs of the moment from Marcus and Kyera. In a semi flashback friday edition, Marcus gives us selections from Tevin Campbell, Kelly Price, and Janet Jackson while Kyera touches on Monica, Drake, and Young M.A who is a rapper on the rise!
This week, we get into the moment the internet exploded with snake emojis after Kim Kardashian exposed Taylor Swift for lying on Kanye West. We talk about Lauryn Hill and financial literacy as well as Rihanna joining the new season of Bates Motel. We end with a shout-out to Rhapsody for signing to Jay Z’s record label, Roc Nation.
Stay tuned until the end of the episode to hear our songs of the moment. Marcus chooses cuts from Lil Kim, Ariana Grande, and Alicia Keys while Kyera highlights new songs from Kehlani, Lizzo, and SchoolBoy Q.
Enjoy!
We’re back! This week we get into Ian Connor getting dragged by Amber Rose over rape accusations, Justin Timberlake getting his White Privilege checked, Azealia Banks admitting to skin bleaching, Apple getting into preliminary talks to buy TIDAL, Frank teasing us with a possible release date this month, and Jennifer Hudson signing to Epic Records. Also make sure you catch our songs of the moment where Kyera introduces us to Kamaiyah, Little Simz, and touts the rapper of the summer Cardi B. Marcus, remembers the late Luther Ronzoni Vandross, Jr. (April 20, 1951 - July 1, 2005) with three selections; one which is a must for any fourth of July BBQ playlist!
We are back! Did you miss us because we missed you all! On this week’s episode of The BackBeat, we discuss the historic 2016 TONY Awards in which all four acting categories in a musical went to people of color. Next, we discuss VH1’s plan to bring back their Hip Hop Honors show with Queen Latifah as the first honoree this year. Do you remember Miki Howard? If you don’t we have you covered with a short review of her recent biopic, Love Under New Management. We take on the 2016 XXL Freshman Cover, which doesn’t feature any women artists before we discuss Prince’s induction into the Apollo Walk of Fame. We end with reflections on recent concerts from Anderson Paak and Beyonce!
Stay tuned until the end of the episode where we discuss our songs of the moment! Marcus chooses cuts from Chasing Destiny, Miki Howard, and Kaytranada. While Kyera takes us down south to New Orleans with bounce classics from Big Freedia, Nicky Da B, and Sissy Nobby.
This week we get into Azealia Banks’ latest Twitter beefs, Whitney ‘Houston we have a problem’ hologram being cancelled from The Voice, Kesha getting banned and now reinstated to perform at the Billboard Music Awards, Ameriie’s comeback, Ghost Town DJ’s “My Boo” becoming a top 10 record two decades later, as well as a quick review of Ariana Grande’s Dangerous Woman.
Also stay tune until the end to hear our songs of the moment where Kyera raves about new music from Chance the Rapper's mixtape Coloring Book and Marcus revisits Ameriie, Whitney Houston, and Ariana Grande.
This week we get into Janet’s “Dammn Baby” music video and her pregnancy announcement, KRS One dismissing claims of Afrika! Bambaata’s sexual molestation, dueling Whitney Houston documentaries, Kylie Jenner being featured on the track "Beautiful Day "by Burberry Perry, new music from Alicia Keys & Ariana Grande, as well as getting a bit into Drake’s Views from the 6.
Also stay tuned to the end where Marcus gets into his songs of the moment from Gallant, Beyonce and Groove Theory, while Kyera gets into songs from Drake, Yo Gotti, and Justin Timberlake.
On this week’s episode, we honor the late, great, legendary Prince sharing some of our fondest memories of the musical icon. In addition we briefly talk about Birdman giving the shortest interview in Breakfast Club history in addition to the casting news of BET’s New Edition miniseries.
We hope you enjoy!
On this week’s episode, we welcome back Maxwell to the musical scene with his new single Lake by the Ocean and his tour kicking off this summer. We review Big Sean and Jhene Aiko’s new album Twenty88. Next, we discuss rumors of André 3000's new album as well as Beyonce’s Elle Magazine cover in which she discusses Formation and police brutality. We then update everyone on the latest developments in Kesha’s sexual assault case against Dr. Luke and Sony Music. Finally, we wonder if we will ever hear Tinashe’s Joyride album since she has postponed the tour to work on new music!
During our songs of the week segment, Marcus chooses cuts from Rihanna, Maxwell, and Jill Scott. While Kyera encourages us to listen to some Kaytranada, Drake, and Schoolboy Q.
In this week’s episode, we remember Phife Dawg and honor his legacy with A Tribe Called Quest, get into release rumors surrounding Beyonce’s forthcoming sixth album, get into Azealia Bank’s SLAY-Z Mixtape, breakdown K. Michelle’s latest album More Issues Than Vogue, and celebrate Rihanna making Black Girl Magic History!
During our songs of the week segment, Kyera introduces us to Dayme Arocena, celebrates Remy Ma and Fat Joe’s latest collabo, and gets on fleek with Cardi B. Additionally, Marcus chooses to get dangerous with Ariana Grande, introduces us to Darion Ja’Von, and celebrates K. Michelle.
Hey Friends! On our new episode, we talk about the tragic trailer for the new Nina Simone movie starring Zoe Saldana. Next, we fan out over Kendrick Lamar’s surprise album “Untitled and Unmastered.” We then discuss Sam Smith’s problematic Oscar acceptance speech. Also, we breakdown hip-hop drama between Joey BadA$$ and Troy Ave followed by a discussion of Tank vs. Tyrese. Finally, we show love to the new Hamilton mixtape that is dropping soon!
Stay tuned to the end of the episode where we discuss our songs of the moment. Kyera chooses songs from the Hamilton Cast Recording, The Alabama Shakes, and Chris Brown. Marcus chooses cuts from Jazmine Sullivan, Erykah Badu, and Fifth Harmony.
In this week's episode of The Backbeat, Marcus and Kyera delve into the 2016 GRAMMY Awards where they talk about their favorite performances of the night as well as some of their disappointments. In addition to their favorite performances, we get into Taylor Swift's clapback to Kanye West's "Famous" from The Life of Pablo. Then we get into a track-by-track review of Kanye's latest LP and then come back to the GRAMMYs to shame them about their lack of inclusion and celebration of Black female artists.
In this week’s episode of The BackBeat, Marcus & Kyera fanout over Rihanna’s latest album Anti. Find out our personal favorites from Anti as well as the tracks, which missed the mark. We love Rihanna and we hope you will love her new album too! We also give a shoutout to Janet Jackson's 30th anniversary since the release of Control, honor the late Maurice White, and give a brief update on Meek Mill’s court case. Enjoy!
In this week’s episode, Iggy Azalea is back on twitter and this time she is taking shots at her record label for holding her back by not funding her music video for Azillion. Meanwhile, Macklemore calls out Iggy Azalea, Elvis, and Miley Cyrus for appropriating black culture in his new song White Privilege II. Speaking of white privilege, Sam Smith is shocked by racism in London side eye alert after witnessing his friend get racially and verbally harassed. In terms of political wokeness and activism, rappers such as Big Sean, Meek Mill, and Diddy are donating money and water to help the City of Flint during their water crisis. They are also calling out racism and the lack of governmental concern for the city’s 60 percent black population. We also call out R. Kelly for his utter lack of remorse for his long history of alleged sexual assaults against young women during his recent Billboard interview. Finally, we fan out to Beyonce’s Bday...the album is almost 10 years old!
During the songs of the week segment, Kyera shows love to Anderson Paak’s new album Malibu. And Marcus chooses some cuts from Toni Braxton, Laura Mvula, and Rihanna.
In this week’s episode of The BackBeat we get into some of 2016’s highly anticipated releases including Rihanna’s Anti, Ariana Grande’s Moonlight, Christina Aguilera’s follow-up to 2012’s Lotus, Kanye’s Swish, and Missy Elliott’s followup to 2005’s The Cookbook. In addition we speculate about new releases from D’Angelo, Erykah Badu, Beyonce and Maxwell with a shoutout to Drake. We then tackle Complex’s list of the best rappers each year since 1979, which shamefully only features one woman, Ms. Nicki Minaj. We then rejoice at Beyonce joining Coldplay at this year’s Super Bowl in addition to rumors that Rihanna might join the festivities, get into some of the new music thus far in 2016 (Kanye West’s “Swish” and “Best Friend”; Brandy’s “Beggin and Pleadin”; Fantasia’s “No Time For It”), talk about Netflix’s highly anticipated series “The Get Down,” and interrogate RZA thinking Black youth should stop scaring police.
Make sure you stay tune to the end of the episode when Marcus and Kyera get into their songs of the moment from Stevie Wonder, Bonnie Raitt, Whitney Houston, and Kelela.
Get a rundown of our favorite moments in music in 2015! We cover our favorite albums, songs, music videos, clap backs, and the biggest surprises of 2015! Usher in the New Year with our new episode!
In this week’s episode of The BackBeat, we talk about the GRAMMY Award nominations where Kendrick Lamar dominated with 11 nominations, Ayesha Curry's politics of respectability tweets, Twitter's #BlackestSongsEver, Wu-Tang Clan album being sold to pharmaceutical villain for $2 million, as well as Erykah Badu's Twitter chat. We also discussed how Chance the Rapper isn’t here for Chi-Raq and Spike Lee's response.
Also make sure you tune into the end of the episode where Marcus and Kyera share their Songs of the Moment.
On this week's episode of The BackBeat, we fan out over new releases from Adele and Erykah Badu. We do full album reviews of 25 and But You Cain't Use My Phone. Find out our personal favorites from each album as well as the tracks, which missed the mark. We love both Badu and Adele and we hope you will love their albums too! Enjoy
In this week’s episode of The BackBeat, we give our delayed review of Lianne La Lavas’s amazing sophomore album Blood, get into Jeezy’s comments about the student protests around the country, talk about the rumored release for Rihanna’s ANTI, engage with Amber Rose’s financial goals for young women, get into Adele and arguments around cultural appropriation (Hey Iggy!), and share our thoughts on Prodigy suing UMG over royalties. We also share our excitement about Missy’s new song and video for her Pharrell assisted “Where They From.”
Stay tuned to the end of the episode to hear what our Songs of The Moment are this week! Kyera chooses some great songs from Missy, J. Cole, and Wale. Marcus dips into the discography of Erykah Badu, Eryn Allen Kane, and Donny Hathaway.
In this week's episode, we interview the very talented Blair Smith, who goes by the name of DJ B.E. She is pursuing her PhD in Cultural Foundations of Education at Syracuse University, where she is integrating her love for mixing with black feminist poetry. We discuss how Richmond, Virginia influenced her musical tastes and the first time she fell in love with hip-hop.
We discussed her love for D'Angelo and his Voodoo album, Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, and even Bow Wow. She is a community organizer and empowers young black women through a collective called We Levitate. She recalls the time she recorded with poet Nikky Finney and the importance of sampling in hip-hop. Blair also discusses the responsibility of the Black artist in relation to the Black Lives Matter movement. She breaks down her track "4thapeople" and also let's us in on who she'd love to work with musically in the future.
In this week’s episode of The BackBeat, we discuss why TI should have just shut the hell up instead of saying his sexist comments about Hillary Clinton & women presidents, we review Bryson Tiller’s new LP Trap Soul, & share our thoughts on the American Music Award nominations, which recognized both Fetty Wap for Best New Artist and D’Angelo’s Black Messiah LP for Soul/R&B Album. We also look out how hip-hop culture is slowly taking over primetime with new shows by Ludacris, Diddy, and Donald Glover aka Childish Gambino are in the works. We get into our feelings over Bobby Brown’s alleged “tell all” book on Whitney Houston and Bobbi Kristina, as well as highlight the activism of Lady Gaga and Lupe Fiasco through their foundations to serve teenagers struggling with mental illness and bring start-ups to inner city communities. Stay tuned to the end of the episode to hear what our Songs of The Moment are this week! Marcus chooses some great songs from Amel Larrieux, Tamar Braxton, and Janet Jackson. Kyera dips into the discography of Musiq Soulchild, Lady Leshurr, and The Internet.
Enjoy!
In this week’s episode of The BackBeat, we get into Nicki Minaj’s new ABC Family show, Whitney Houston’s upcoming Hologram, Drake making history on the Billboard Hot 100, Erykah Badu's remix of Drake’s “Hotline Bling,” a status update on Lauryn Hill’s highly anticipated followup to The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, as well as our reviews on both Tamar Braxton’s (Calling All Lovers) and Janet Jackson’s (Unbreakable) new albums.
Kyera also gives us a brief Culture Talk regarding the musical Hamilton, and Marcus offers a Blast from the Past regarding Donny Hathaway. Make sure you tune into the end of the episode where we give our Songs of the Moment.
She put a spell on us with her riveting cover of the standard “I Put A Spell On You” in The Perfect Guy Trailer and now we are getting to know who Lydia René is with our latest special episode! During our interview Lydia opens up about how coming from a musically inclined family influenced her, her love for Philly soulsters Jill Scott and Musiq Soulchild, as well as who she’s grown up listening to including Erykah Badu, #Ledisi, #EricBenet, #GlennLewis, and #Tamia.
Lydia also opens up about who she’s listening to know including #Goapele, #StacyBarthe, #ErynAllenKane (“Have Mercy”) #PJMorten, #EmilyKing, #Ash (“The Perfect EP”),#PrestonHarris, #RobertGlasper, #KendrickLamar, and #PhonyPPL, how her LP Vintage Heart came about, why recording “True Love” took forever, if there are any plans or an acoustic or live EP, reveals plans for a Christmas album, how her singing “#IPutASpellOnYou” in The Perfect Guy trailer came together, sets the record straight regarding the possible commercial release of “I Put A Spell On You,” what songs she would put on her perfect playlist, where she sees herself in the next five to ten years, if she sees herself getting involved musically regarding #BlackLivesMatter, and of course graces the mic for The BackBeat with an original song.
In this week’s episode, we get into Andra Day’s sublime debut Cheers To The Fall, Taylor Swift’s problematic music video for “Wildest Dreams,” Miley’s traumatic hosting duties at the VMAs, Macklemore getting praise from Big Daddy Kane, Tyler the creator getting banned from the UK, as well as our excitement over Janet Jackson’s Unbreakable era.
We also introduce a new segment Minute Update regarding Aretha Franklin’s documentary Amazing Grace, and get into a Blast from the Past regarding Lauryn Hill’s The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.
And make sure you stay tuned to the end of the episode to hear our songs of the moment.
This week, we get back into our soundbites starting with #NWA’s biopic #StraightOuttaCompton, our thoughts on #JoJo’s compact with her #Tringle, #Beyoncé’s “stringy hair” Atlantic article and #BlackTwitter’s response as well as how we are totally here for #JanelleMonae and her movement. Also we get into #LilB’s discussion of #BlackLivesMatters on CNN, #AzealiaBank’s bad contract and response to #NickiMinaj’s wax figure, #FettyWap dominating the summer, as well as #ArethaFranklin’s highly anticipated biopic with #JenniferHudson loosely attached to stars.
And make sure you stay tuned to the end of the episode to hear our favorite songs of the moment.
In this week’s special episode of #TheBackBeat, we interview indie R&B artist on the rise #JonSchuyler who opens up about his thoughts on #IndieR&B, his adoration for #DAngelo, what makes him unique from other artists, how his writing and sound has evolved, his thoughts on race and R&B, as well as his inspirations regarding music.
Jon also talks about his latest EP 199X and his top five 90s artists that include #Brandy, #JaggedEdge and #WhitneyHouston amongst other. Jon and Marcus also have a Whitney stan moment and engage in the Whitney/Mariah debate alongside Kyera. We also get into one of Jon’s craziest fan moments, what’s the hardest song he’s had to write so far, as well as his thoughts on love and relationships.
Get to know Jon Schuyler in our extended interview and find out why we are such big fans of him and his music.
This week, we celebrate our love for 90's R&B. We cover #WhitneyHouston vs #MariahCarey, #Jodeci vs #BoysIIMen, #Aaliyah, #MaryJBlige, #Brandy, #Monica, #ToniBraxton, #Mya, #SWV, #TLC, #LutherVandross, #RKelly, #Ginuwine and much much more. For the Hip Hop heads, we got you covered! We discuss the hottest R&B and Hip Hop collabs ft. #BiggieSmalls, #MethodMan, #Raekwon, #GhostfaceKillah, #JermaineDurpri, #TheBrat, #Mase, #QueenLatifah, #MCLyte, #YoYo, and many more. Make sure you stay tuned for our special segments. We play a game of 21 questions, where each host has to decide between two iconic singers, songs, soundtracks, and albums of the 90's. We also discuss the weirdest, sexiest, and downright problematic R&B pickup lines. As a special treat, we introduce our listeners to a special preview of a longer interview with #JonSchulyer, whose mixtape #199X is heavily inspired by the 90's. We hope you fall back in love with the 90's after this special episode!
In this week’s episode of #TheBackBeat, we talk about #JillScott’s new album “#Woman,” #Future’s new #DS2 album and get into the anatomy of a clapback. Starting off with #NickiMinaj and #TaylorSwift’s twitter exchange about the #VMAs, we then get into #MeekMill calling out #Drake for not writing his own raps on Twitter, #Ghostface clapping back at #ActionBronson over comments made on #Sportscenter, #ErykahBadu calling out the #BlackEyedPeas for imitating her Honey video, #JanetJackson’s new video for her #NoSleeep remix with #JCole, as well as #MichelleObama calling on #Wale to take part in a college summit.
In our Blast From the Past segment, we celebrate #JLO’s birthday, JillScott’s debut album #WhoIsJillScott, the passing of #AmyWinehouse, as well as the 20th anniversary of #Raekwon’s “Only Built 4 Cuban Linx.” And make sure you stay tuned to the end of the episode to hear our favorite songs of the moment.
In this week’s episode of #TheBackBeat, we talk about #2Chainz being sued for $5 million dollars, #JillScott retracting her support for #BillCosby, #ShiaLeBeouf plagiarizing Rap Crew #ANOMOLIES, #ArianaGrande’s Donut moment, #KendickLamar challenging Fox News, #Tyga’s #transgender mistress, #KylieJenner’s record career, #Miguel shading #FrankOcean, and the #AmyWinehouse documentary #AMY.
We also highlight new music from #LaurynHill, #VinceStaples, #MeekMill, and #JillScott. In our Blast From the Past segment, we honor #Diddy’s Bad Boy the Saga Continues, give a shout out to #AngelHaze, and reminisce about the demise of #3LW. And make sure you stay tuned to the end of the episode to hear our favorite songs of the moment.
In this special episode of The BackBeat, we cover last night's 2015 BET Awards. We discuss the standout performances of the night, Smokey Robinson's charged acceptance speech, the political messages throughout the awards ceremony, the best and worst fashion choices from our favorite celebrities, and much much more. Tune in to find out why we thought this year's BET Awards was one of the best awards show in recent memory!
In this week’s episode of #TheBackBeat, we tackle #LupeFiasco’s letter on white supremacy, #TaylorSwift’s fight for artist compensation from #Apple, #TheDream’s Billboard interview about race and music, Bobbi Kristina’s medical condition, Eminem’s new show Narc, D’Angelo’s follow up to Black Messiah, #Beyonce headlines the Made in America music festival, and Diddy’s kettlebell fight. We also highlight new music from Janet Jackson, Fetty Wap, Jidenna, Tiffany Evans, #KendrickLamar, Bilal, and #LeonBridges. In our Blast From the Past segment, we honor Jay Z’s Reasonable Doubt and remember #MichaelJackson on the anniversary of his passing. And make sure you stay tuned to the end of the episode to hear our favorite songs of the moment.
In this week’s episode of #TheBackBeat, Marcus and Kyera discuss the foolishness that is Rachel Dolezal, Ariana Grande’s feminist letter, Kendrick Lamar and Big Sean’s high school visits, Tamia’s #LoveLife, Katy Perry’s fictional “Trap House,” Brandy’s desire to join NBC’s remake of #TheWiz, and Iggy Azalea’s cancelled Pittsburgh Pride performance.
In addition during Blast from the Past, “Woman to Woman” by Shirley Brown is unearthed, Mariah and Young Jezzy celebrate different milestones, and Erykah gives us a lesson on bullying in a somewhat comical manner.
In the first episode of The BackBeat, Marcus and Kyera discuss the Cheryl Lynn/Anita Baker beef, K. Michelle's response to Jaguar Wright, Azealia Banks, Lil Mama's new video for "Sausage," Erica Campbell's "I Luh God," #BeyonceAlwaysOnBeat, A$AP Rocky's ALLA LP, anticipation for Tamia's new album and much more.