::GET FAMILIAR:: ALLEN STONE

::GET FAMILIAR:: ALLEN STONE
by Daniel Harris

Though his career is just getting started, Allen Stone has shown that he is relentless in his quest to create serious soul music. In this age of "one hit wonders," and corporate driven artists, Allen Stone's commitment to music is extremely refreshing.

A native of Washington state (a region most known for its grunge and punk rock scene), Stone had a very traditional soul musician's start: in church. Stone began singing in his father's church as a young boy. By the time he was 14, Stone was leading worship and playing guitar.

Allen Stone cites some of the greatest soul singers as his influences, including Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Donny Hathaway and Aretha Franklin. Like his influences, Stone delivers a wide spectrum of thought and feelings from deep levels of consciousness to the ultimate joys and highs of love.

That is what makes Allen Stone a wonderful artist to be familiar with. An amazing songwriter and musician, Stone's music is full. While many artists today opt out of creating music that reaches listeners on a more personal level, Stone's approach to writing and performing is much different that any of today's pop artists.

To get even more familiar with Allen Stone, follow him on Twitter and Instagram. Baltimore! You have an opportunity to see this incredible artist on Nov. 11 at Baltimore Soundstage! You seriously don't want to miss it. Be sure to check Allen Stone's tour dates to see when he will be in YOUR area!

Read more »

::HEADPHONE JUNKIE:: JEFF BRADSHAW- "ALL TIME LOVE" FT ROBERT GLASPER, ERIC ROBERSON & TWEET

::HEADPHONE JUNKIE:: JEFF BRADSHAW- "ALL TIME LOVE" FT. ROBERT GLASPER, ERIC ROBERSON & TWEET

by Daniel Harris

We have good news for all lovers of music, more specifically, live music. Jeff Bradshaw has announced the release of his forthcoming Home LP. To give fans a taste of what to expect from his new album, Jeff Bradshaw and Shanachie Entertainment have released "All Time Love," the first single from the album. This smooth, soulful and jazzy track features Robert Glasper, Eric Roberson and Tweet and it is a perfect introduction for what's to come on Bradshaw's new album. On a personal note: It is extremely great to hear Tweet again.

The Home LP will be in stores and digital music stores in March 31st.

Read more »

::RECAP:: EAR CANDY FEAT DONTAE WINSLOW & THE WINSLOW DYNASTY

::RECAP:: EAR CANDY FEAT DONTAE WINSLOW & THE WINSLOW DYNASTY

Post by Nakera Lee

Photos by Nick Fullen

As the saying goes, “You never know where you’re going, until you know where you come from.” That statement was resonated in a room full of enthused fans, long time friends, and family members who all anticipated the soulful, sultry, and centric sounds of Dontae Winslow and the Winslow Dynasty with host MonokiaNance and DJ Lil Mic.  

On Tuesday, June 17, 2014 at Teavolve located in scenic area of Harbor East in Baltimore, MD, Gypsy Soul Entertainment hosted it’s signature event Ear Candy series. From the beginning to the end, Dontae Winslow and his beautiful wife Mishica Winslow captivated the audience with their Hip Hop Jazz ensemble taking the crowd back to the days when feel good Baltimore house music was in full effect.

For those who are not sure, we’re here to help you #GetFamiliar. The WinslowDynasty group is a music group from Baltimore, MD with a mission to change the world and inspire a renaissance in creative art. Dontae Winslow is a featured member on trumpet/production and vocals, while Mashica Winslow is a featured member who lends her angelic vocals/songwriting and stellar arranging abilities. Their formidable alliance comprises styles of Jazz, Soul, Urban Poetry (Hip-Hop) and Rhythm and Blues music.

Between the versatility in their artistry and the relatable content in their musical projects, it is safe to say that Dontae Winslow and the Winslow Dynasty is creating an atmosphere that allows individuals of all kind to cultivate their inner being and that creates a sense of appreciation for self in the same breath. 

One of the most memorable moments of the night came as the Winslow’s performed their track Blaxploitation and Revolution. This particular song not only reached the masses for it’s up tempo beat, but touched all onlookers in the room who could sincerely relate to the message behind the track. 

With a Harlem-Renaissance feel and Dontae Winslow on trumpet, the crowd was quickly moved to their feet in celebration and appreciation of their ancestry. This dynamic duo has truly brought back the essence of real jazz to modern music so we can only imagine the powerful forces they become with the addition of their son. 

To say that Dontae Winslow and the Winslow Dynasty did a great job is not enough to amount to the sparks and flames that they left on the dance floor and in the hearts of the crowd even after their set was complete. Born and raised in the City of Baltimore has truly helped to set the tone for the Winslow’s and one thing that remains tried and true is that this dynasty is just getting started. 

I would be remised if I didn't mention the awesome Urban Ballroom dance workshop lead in the beginning of the event by Milton Kent. He is working hard to bring back a sophisticated sexiness to the dance floor and the audience and participants loved it.

For more information on Dontae Winslow and the Winslow Dynasty, please visit their website.

Enter The Dynasty can be purchased on iTunes and Amazon. 

To view more photos from the event please click HERE

Read more »

::RECAP:: YUNA LIVE AT RAMS HEAD ON STAGE

::RECAP:: YUNA LIVE AT RAMS HEAD ON STAGE
by Daniel Harris

Singer/songwriter Yuna

In the midst of her first headline tour, singer/songwriter Yuna blessed Rams Head On Stage with a very memorable performance this past Sunday evening.

Not even the threat of an evening snow shower would keep fans from this wonderful experience in Annapolis. Rams Head On Stage is an amazing venue and there was no doubt that it was the perfect place to house this incredible night of music.

Before Yuna took the stage, the evening was set by up and coming, Alternative R&B artist Jarell Perry. Hailing from Los Angeles, CA, Perry was dubbed a "Buzzworthy" artist by MTV in 2013.  Perry sound uses Electronic, Indie-Rock and Pop elements to create a smooth, chilled out vibe.

Singer/Songwriter Jarell Perry

His melodic tones coupled with his imaginative lyrics proved to be the perfect bridge from the bitter cold evening to a wonderful musical experience. Jarell Perry's talent and ability was a bright spot of the evening and he showed Annapolis that he has what it takes to make huge waves in an often convoluted music scene.

Singer/Songwriter Yuna

As Jarell Perry concluded his sensational set, the excitement really began to build as the Rams Head On Stage crowd prepared for Yuna with great expectancy. As she took the stage and before singing one single note, Yuna's beautiful spirit, her grace and charming personality helped to give the audience a very true sense of what could be expected during her performance.

In one word, Yuna's performance can be described as perfection. The singer/songwriter played singles from her albums Decorate, Yuna and Nocturnal including "Deeper Conversation", "Lullabies" and "I Want You Back." Each of these songs displayed her amazing ability to combine poignant lyrics with very groovy, full and rich sound.

And if performing her own songs didn't mesmerize the crowd enough, Yuna moves from a normal microphone to a Voicelive Touch enabled microphone, laid down a quick track and her own background vocals and simply stunned her listeners with a moving rendition of Frank Ocean's "Thinkin' Bout You."

Perfection!

Our special thanks to Laura and Rams Head On Stage for the media access.

Read more »