Shuga interview on Colourful Radio 24-November-2024

Shuga Bio

In 2009, friends and family encouraged Mitsy to audition for the Digicel Rising Stars competition. She took a leap of faith and was introduced to Jamaica and the diaspora as Brown Shuga. That decision proved to be a pivotal move in the development of her young career. The televised national competition brought her into the homes and hearts of Jamaicans every week; allowing her to showcase her vocal abilities, effortless versatility, endearing personality, and contagious energy on stage. She won the competition, thus opening the doors to her new life as a professional recording artiste.

Freshly crowned with the title of 2009 Digicel Rising Star, and signed to producer and artiste manager Donovan Germain’s Penthouse Records label, Mitsy was on a mission to bring only the best to the people who had supported her budding career. Her primary aim was to establish her talent globally.

She poured heart and soul into publishing her own singles such as “Complicated love”, “9.58”, “Give my Soul to Jah”, and her Black History Month Tribute, “Ebony”. She also positioned herself as a sought after stage performer and was invited to do collaborations with reggae heavyweights such as Marcia Griffiths and Judy Mowatt with a “Tribute to the iThrees”, Sly and Robbie, Silly Walks Disco, Boot Camp Records, Queen Ifrica, Bugle, Agent Sasco and Bling Dawg – to name a few.

Her live stage performances brought her face-to-face with her growing fan base and placed her on Reggae’s biggest stages, such as: Rebel Salute, her hometown’s Reggae Sumfest, Europe’s Reggae Jam, and Rototom Sunsplash.

Like so many before her, Shuga entered the music industry with little knowledge of how to manage her endeavours as a business, despite her many years behind the scenes. All she knew was that she had a love for music and a desire to sing.

The expectations, uncertainty and rigours of the industry took a toll on her, and she took a break to do some introspection, reflection, regrouping and reconnecting with her purpose. She found new joy in love, family and motherhood and returned to the scene dropping a new single entitled “Dear Mr. Government”. This song is still creating quite a stir, as it brings a global, poignant message about the treatment of the disadvantaged.

In 2020, Shuga was a part of the Jamaica Festival Song Competition as one of the top ten finalists, with her song “One People”, sharing the stage with Reggae giants Buju Banton and Toots Hibbert. She placed second when she re-entered in 2023, after her performance at the Grand Gala with her entry “Dancing Same Way”.

Current single

Jamaican artist Shuga released her latest single, “Love Doctor,” on November 7 via VP Records. Produced by Donovan Germain on the “Boxing Around” riddim, this Lovers Rock track taps into the deep emotional yearning for love, presenting it as both a remedy and a source of comfort.

The accompanying music video, directed by Kenny Gray, features a medley that includes Shuga’s cover of Cornell Campbell’s “Boxing Around,” highlighting contrasting views of desire through both songs. The video will be released on November 7.

Debut Album Release

Shuga is poised to release her first full length album entitled “Girl from Bogue”. It is a Penthouse production and will be released in partnership with VP Records.

Gwen Dickey interview on Colourful Radio 10-November-2024

Gwen Dickey is one of the finest female vocalists of her generation – she is the voice of Rose Royce who released their first single “Car Wash” in 1976. The single peaked at number one on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart and sold over a million copies in United States alone. Rose Royce’s debut album Car Wash was released the same year and sold over two million copies worldwide, winning a Grammy Award for Best Score Soundtrack Album in 1977. The album’s final single “I’m Going Down, peaked at number 70 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and reached number ten on the R&B singles chart.

The group’s second album Rose Royce II: In Full Bloom became a platinum-seller in the United States, topped the R&B albums chart, and peaked at number nine on the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart. The album spawned three successful singles: “Do Your Dance (Part 1)”, “It Makes You Feel Like Dancin'”, “Ooh Boy”, and “Wishing on a Star”. The song became an international pop hit and garnered a certified silver certification in the United Kingdom.

In 1978, Rose Royce released their third album Rose Royce III: Strikes Again! which was certified gold in the United States. The album spawned two top-ten R&B singles: “Love Don’t Live Here Anymore” and “I’m in Love (And I Love the Feeling)”. In 1979, Rose Royce released their fourth album Rose Royce IV: Rainbow Connection, the final album to feature vocals with Gwen.

Gwen was injured in a fall from a ladder at her home in London in 2010. The injury to Gwen’s spine confined her to a wheelchair but this has not stopped her performing globally to loving audiences. Recently she has been having therapy and has been training to stand. It’s early days and the treatment will take time – but Gwen does not give up. At anything!

“If I’m Gonna Be With You” was the last song to be recorded when making the EP in New Orleans, Louisiana. It becomes the first single for everyone to listen and enjoy.

“This is Gwen Dickey”, featuring four tracks and marks Gwen Dickey’s first solo recordings since the 1990’s. As the legendary Voice of Rose Royce, Gwen has sold millions of records worldwide with classics like the Grammy-winning “Car Wash,” “Wishing on a Star,” “I’m Going Down,” “Love Don’t Live Here Anymore,” and many others.

Novel-T interview on Colourful Radio 01-September-2024

NOVEL-T – Singer/Songwriter/Recording Artist/Producer. Novel-T’s professional musical career started accelerating in the early 90s, when she began singing and performing while in Jamaica, at various events/locations. She was the voice behind many and varied On-Air Radio Jingles/Ads for companies in Jamaica such as I.R.I.E. FM, Singer Sewing Machines, Public Supermarket chains, F.A.M.E.FM, Jamaica Record Newspaper, Mother’s Patties, and several others, before migrating to the US in the mid-90s. Since then, she has performed all around the United States, and has been the lead singer for several bands, which helped to establish her presence in the music industry. Novel-T has performed at various national and international events including the Annual Festival Competitions, Independence celebrations, and the Grand Miss Jamaica Beauty Pageant in Jamaica. She has performed also at the Miss Teen Jamaica Beauty Pageant in Florida, the Annual Jamaican Jerk Festival – FL, Jamaica Independence Celebrations-Atlanta, the Annual Rachel One Love Fest -FL, and the Annual Marathon Keys Seafood Festival-FL, among others. Over the years Novel-T has enjoyed a thriving and in-demand schedule of private functions, gigs and shows which have gained her much recognition in the industry and particularly the Jamaican diaspora around the world. Novel-T has had the honour of either sharing the entertainment stage with, performing alongside, or providing background vocals for, several revered icons and legends including Marcia Griffiths, J.C. Lodge, Bob Andy, Pam Hall, Calton Coffie (formerly of Inner Circle), Ken Booth, Freddie McGregor, Third World, Hopeton Lindo to name a few. She has collaborated with several renowned entertainers and producers over the years, providing lead and/or background vocals on various projects.

In 2011 Novel-T began focusing mainly on recording and producing her own music, alongside her husband/musical director and co-producer, Trumpeter Howard Perry Ricketts. Her music has since gained her worldwide recognition, with several of her songs becoming hits on various respected reggae music charts and hot lists, locally and internationally. From 2012-2016 Novel-T released several songs, culminating in the launch of her first album titled, “Born To Love You” (under her P&N Publishing label). This included – Boom-Boom (Say My Name) – her first song to enter the Foundation Radio Network Reggae charts, peaking at #3 in Florida and #6 in New York, placing her on the radars of many music industry professionals. Between 2019 & present Novel-T has released multiple singles, several of which have risen to the #1 position on Reggae Charts in the USA, and the UK. Her hit song “Tough Like a Diamond” on the all-female Global Award-winning various artist album “Queens in the Arena” (under producer Chyna Nicole), was her first chart-topper, capturing the #1 position on the South Florida Foundation Radio Network top 25 Chart. This was followed by another #1, “Love Won’t Let Us Wait”, a duet with artist Peter G – renowned singer with Sly and Robbie’s band (under producer Hopeton Lindo/Irie Pen Records). Subsequent #1 singles include her original composition “Keep It Moving”, and her cover of the Aswad hit, “Two Makes One”, both released under her P&N Publishing label. A cover of “So I Can Love You” produced by Oliver Millwood’s Melody Productions was her next song to soar to #1, followed by a cover of the Aaron Neville/Linda Ronstadt “Don’t Know Much”, a duet with the legendary Hopeton Lindo, which copped the #1 position for 4 consecutive weeks. Her latest single “I Love The Way” released on Valentine’s Day 2024 under Irie Pen Records, was her most recent song to capture the enviable #1 position on the charts. Other releases that made top 10 showings on the charts in recent years includes Let Me Please You (2022), a 2nd duet with Peter G, which peaked at #3 and her ‘tribute’ cover of the Bob Marley hit Satisfy My Soul (2023) which rose to #8 on the charts. Novel-T’s second full album featuring 11 songs, was release on August 17, 2024, and showcases brand new tracks, as well as remasters/remakes of some of her previous singles.

In other news, Novel-T was named #1 Female Singer for 2020, 2021 and 2023 by the Foundation Radio Network “South Florida Top Ten Female Singers Chart”. She has also had multiple songs in recent years, on the Foundation Radio Network’s Top 100 Songs of The Year. Novel-T aims to continue making great music that resonates with the listening public and focuses on using her music as a means of spreading love, empowerment, motivation, and enlightenment. She has an impressive catalogue of songs which can be accessed via her website below, and all digital outlets, as well as onwww.YouTube.com/MusicByNovelT. Follow her on all social media platforms by visiting her website for direct links to her social media pages; or Google search – “Music By Novel-T”.

Bookings: Contact – MusicByNovel.T@Gmail.com Website: www.noveltmusic.com or www.musicbynovelt.com

Kid Creole interview on Colourful Radio 21-July-2024

In the beginning there was a vision by Kid Creole – the vision of a multicultural carnival without stylistic limitations; the vision of a colorful theater with fascinating characters; the vision of an exuberant joyous lifestyle full of irony, humor and sophistication.

To be sure, in the beginning there was a need to present an invitation to a dance called Escapism. The visionary was Bronx born August Darnell. Disillusioned by the politics in his big brother’s band, Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band, Mr. Darnell jumped ship in 1980 and formed Kid Creole and the Coconuts with his then wife Adriana Kaegi who originally created all the choreography and costumes, and his buddy Coati Mundi. Thus began the odyssey. Fast forward 43 years later and the man and his band are still synonymous with over the rainbow adventure: Deluxe Escapism.

“In other times, Darnell might have been called a wit. His best songs are dazzlingly witty: they can also be sarcastic, ambiguous, deceptively eager to please. It’s pop as a moving target, brightly-colored –even garish, but rich with shades of grey.” (David Peschek)

The Kid Creole credo is best summed up by August Darnell himself:

“The beauty of music is its possibilities for mutation, and that mutation represents a larger global ideal: global coexistence.” Indeed.

“Darnell charted the glorious polyglot pop music of New York City in the 1970s and ’80s as well as any one individual could. His body of work has kept him relevant well into the 21st century; his songs have been sampled by Ghostface Killah, M.I.A., Cee Lo Green, and the Avalanches (to name a few), and the growing interest in New York’s disco history via acts such as LCD Soundsystem, !!!, and Hercules and Love Affair has further prolonged interest.” (Andy Beta)

“Darnell unveiled a project that would both define his career and subvert notions of category in pop music – Kid Creole and the Coconuts. He explored reggae and calypso through a prism of funk, pop, new wave, and disco.” (Christian John Wikane)

Michael Jackson, August Darnell, Paul McCartney at the British Music Awards in 1983. Kid Creole won best International Live Act Award.

“Darnell’s band Kid Creole and the Coconuts is the finest iteration of his musical razzmatazz. The band was an amalgam of bygone outsized personas like Jimmy Durante, Carmen Miranda, and of course, Cab Calloway, its music navigating the waters between disco, calypso, show tunes, soul, big band, pop, funk, and new wave.” (Andy Beta)

The gleefully multifarious August Darnell released his 15th studio album in Sept. 2011. It was entitled I WAKE UP SCREAMING.

“August Darnell/Kid Creole has always been a master of a dark story delivered under the most danceable and light sounding music and I really wondered what he had to offer in his first album for 10 years.

The answer is pretty much exactly what he is best at – if you don’t listen to his lyrics this is some of the most delicious Caribbean flavoured dance music and heartfelt balladeering in years.

But if you listen to his lyrics you find little gems like the title track: his and hers stories about a tropical holiday – he wants it but she ain’t giving it and she wants a holiday without constant booty calls. This is NOT a happy tale.

Every number is a story in its own right, no bland chest beating or regular love songs and the whole album is loaded with some superb playing. This is like a stage show where the ensemble each have their own tale to tell in a style all their own.

I think that we have really missed Kid Creole – there really isn’t anyone who creates music that you can dance to and wince at the story at the same time.

This isn’t quite as good as his classic period of the ‘80’s but it comes close – essential.” (Andy Snipper) “Whether strolling through Central Park, sailing on the Hudson, or visiting the world of music created by August Darnell, the magic of New York lives on in every sunset and every dawn.” (Christian John Wickane)

Victor Haynes interview on Colourful Radio 09-June-2024

Music was always in his blood from a very early age, forming a school band and gigging with the band Mainstreet. This was part of the evolution of the singer we know today.

He went off to London to seek fame and fortune in the music industry. Along the way meeting musician, songwriter, arranger, and friend Peter May. They decided to write and created new music together.

Finally getting a deal with Kongo records, who were working with the likes of Omar and Mica Paris at the time.

But the two decided to change record companies and moved on to a more fulfilling deal with Richard Searling and Ralph Tee at Expansion Records.

This is where the story really begins with the first album Optimistic. From there the catalogue of albums continued with “Voices in control.” Remembering the good times.” From the bottom of my heart.” My time is here.” Take it to the top.” Can we talk and Love is the answer.

Hitting the number one in the charts with albums “Take it to the top” and “Can we talk.

And also making it to number one in numerous Soul music charts across the country.

Dreams is the latest offering from the duo, it has 10 tracks and the album is simply music to make you feel good.

DREAMS

1 DREAMS

2 WE GOT LOVE

3 LIKE THE OLD DAYS

4 LET THE LOVING START

5 GOT MY MIND MADE UP

6 A WORLD WITHOUT YOU

7 MOVIN’ ON

8 GONNA BE RIGHT THERE

9 YOU’RE MY GIRL

10 BLOWING MY MIND

All songs written and produced by Victor Haynes and Peter May

DREAMS

This album is simply here to brighten up your day and make you feel lifted. With songs like “Got My Mind Made Up”, “Like The Old Days”, “We Got Love” and the new single “Let The Lovin’ Start”. As well as that there are beautiful songs like “A World Without You”, “Dreams” and “Blowing My Mind”.

This album has the classic signature sounds of Victor Haynes and Peter May that we know so well. All that’s left to do is to sit back and enjoy the ride.

Cherise interview on Colourful Radio 06-August-2023

CHERISE, the British soul sensation has emerged over recent years from London’s vibrant Jazz scene. From her roots with the pioneering artist development organisation Tomorrow’s Warrior to recent collaborations and supports slots with Gregory Porter, Michael Kiwanuka, Steam Down, Jamie Cullum, Rueban James, Omar plus featuring on the ‘Blue:Note Reimagined II’ album on Decca Records. CHERISE has signed a full label services deal that will see Kartel Music Group support the global release and marketing of her debut album Calling.

Charles Kirby-Welch, Founder & CEO comments, “The entire team at Kartel are excited to be working with CHERISE and her management team at Harmonic Artists. CHERISE is an impressively accomplished artist and has made a truly stunning debut album, we look forward to helping her release it into the world.”

CHERISE comments, “Being able to release my debut album independently with the support of Kartel Music Group is exactly right for me and my career desires. I feel like I can steer the ship with the support of an excellent, experienced and passionate crew of music enthusiasts. I’m excited for the impact we are going to have together”.

Having already featured in Dazed in their ‘Five creatives disrupting archaic female archetypes’ feature in September last year, creativity pours from CHERISE, and she puts equal hard work and dedication into all aspects of her multifaceted career; music, fashion, yoga, teaching, acting. One of her first ever projects was a “musical adventure” which was showcased at London Jazz Festival – ‘Evelyn and the Yellow Birds’ – a tribute to her Grandma, Evelyn, who came to London as part of the Windrush generation, and earned Cherise plaudits with the BBC. Cherise’s culture and heritage sing from her entire creative output “My grandparents taught me that I am a manifestation of their wildest dreams. The gratitude and love I have for them runs through everything I sing” she comments.

All of this hasn’t gone unnoticed in the fashion world either and CHERISE was invited to work with the chic Parisian label, Sézane.

A truly multi-faceted artist, CHERISE is fast proving herself to be one of the most fiercely talented young musicians in the UK. Her effortless, irresistible vocals, alongside her honest, soulful song writing manage to be simultaneously both contemporary and timeless. With Love Supreme and Montreux Jazz festivals already confirmed for this summer and more music to be announced over the coming weeks – 2023 is looking like a standout year for her.

Royalty Duo interview on Colourful Radio 07-May-2023

A love song doesn’t get much more authentic than when performed by two people who are actually in love. There’s an even greater sense of reality when the performers are married because they’re singing about a love they’ve vowed to keep.

One married couple who’s bringing that authenticity to their music is Heman and Shira Israel, known collectively as THE ROYALTY DUO. This husband-and-wife team recently released their debut album called Marriage, which is making waves in the US and UK. Their new single, “Bada Ba Ba (Stay Together)” is our First Listen.

In the song, both Heman and Shira alternate vocals, singing to one another words from the heart: “You’re my best friend, I know I can count on you. You complete me…this is how it should be.”

In addition to the song’s lyrics of sincere devotion, “Bada Ba Ba (Stay Together)” will be pleasing to the ear of the average R&B/soul fan: Think Kindred the Family Soul meets Earth, Wind & Fire, and you get the sound of THE ROYALTY DUO.

Speaking of their sound, they have shared the stage together at a variety of events, some of the most memorable being the “Married 4 Life Walk” hosted by Ronnie & Shamari DeVoe (of New Edition & Blaque respectively); the “Caring for Congo” Gala hosted by NBA legend Dikembe Mutombo; and Rickey Smiley’s Comedy & Karaoke Night at the famed StarDome Comedy Club in front of a sold-out crowd. An international tour propelled by the success of their “Marriage” album just may be in store.

In the meantime, check out the official video for “Bada Ba Ba (Stay Together)” below and welcome THE ROYALTY DUO.

Romain Virgo interview on Colourful Radio 16-April-2023

Charlotte Kelly interview on Colourful Radio 19-February-2023

Charlotte Kelly is one of the lead singers of legendary British group, Soul II Soul, who are also one of the UK’s bestselling groups of all time. Charlotte has featured on numerous studio albums including: Volume V: Believe (1995) and Time for Change (1997). She also provided lead vocals on their top 20 hit ‘I Care’.

Charlotte released her own debut album “Just Another Girl” in 1998, which sold exclusively in Japan. She also released a second album Charlotte in 1999, which included number-one dance hit ‘Skin’ and “Roll Deep” hit song, “Good Times”.

Charlotte also received the Heritage Award from the Performing Right Society (PRS) along with the members of Soul II Soul. As well as been awarded her own space in the Coventry “2Tone” music museum, Charlotte grew up in Coventry in and around members of the 2 Tone genre, such as the Specials. Charlotte has collaborated with leading music producers and DJs: Jazzy B, David Morales, Junior Vasquez, Dave Smart, Joel Kipnis (Pulse Music NYC), David Derwood, Simon Law, Tim Lawes, Mike McEvoy, Sunship and Richie Stephens (Smudge All Stars).

A prolific songwriter, Charlotte has written for a number of top artists including; Tom Jones, Lisa Stansfield and Roll Deep, she also wrote the song ‘Wish’ for Soul II Soul, performed by Melissa Bell a writer for Mike McEvoy’s & Dani’s House a 2008 CBBC Kids TV program.

Away from the studio and stage, Charlotte focuses her time on her healing and community work. She teamed up with ‘Kids on The Green’, as a Wellbeing mentor to help children gain confidence through singing, sound and expression. The creative arts project was set up in the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower tragedy. She is also a qualified spiritual clinical counsellor and Reiki healer, drawing on years of healing experience through singing. She co-founded The Gift 202 with friend and tarot reader Suzanne Porter, offering healing and wellbeing through Reiki and Tarot readings.

Charlotte is currently studying Sound Healing, combining Reiki, Tantric Massage, and Psychology. While working with various producers and writers like Phil Edwards and Coventry’s luminary WICK who recently released his new song “Chasing The Rainbow“ feat. Charlotte Kelly on vocals and as a writer.

Using her voice to share healing through sound and songs, she has launched her own YouTube Channel, “Blinding Vision”, a channel aimed at visual care awareness and the independence of blind people and channels featuring spiritual talks, Reiki, Raga, and the “Darling Parlour” which is a fly-on-the-wall behind the scenes look at Soul II Souls backing vocalists and co lead singers (Nadine Creaser). It is a celebration of feminine energy, expression and a close-up view of music’s’ creative life. Charlotte – currently writing her third studio album working with Phil Edwards of “The Paradise Projex” and other producers.

Currently promoting her new forthcoming EP which includes G Love/Dance/Highway/Miracles, throughout Spring 2023.

Hil St. Soul interview on Colourful Radio 11-December-2022

Hilary Mwelwa moved from Lusaka, Zambia, to England when she was five years old – just in time for kindergarten. She studied biochemistry at the University of London, but a strong love for music pushed her to leave school and follow her heart. An a cappella demo of Stevie Wonder/Clarence Paul/Morris Broadnax’s “Until You Come Back to Me,” cut in 1995, started everything for the enthusiastic singer; she loved the song so much she waxed two versions for her debut CD, jointly written and produced with Victor Redwood Sawyerr (aka VRS, a founding member of Blak Twang), the other half of Hil St. Soul.

A singer of many styles, Mwelwa is comfortable performing classic soul, smooth jazz, uptempo funk, and gospel. Her versatility earned her the honor of Best Newcomer by the U.K.’s Blues & Soul magazine. She has performed at festivals in Holland, Norway, and England, sharing stages with urban kings and queens such as D’Angelo, Kelis, Macy Gray, and Angie Stone, to name a few. An accomplished and prolific songwriter, Incognito, Maysa Leak, and others have used her material. Her style doesn’t lack drama, but she’s more subtle than demonstrative. Not as reclining as Sade, and not as overwhelming as Mica Paris, she’s found a comfortable niche that appeases classic soul fanatics canvassing for fresh R&B/pop janissaries without disenfranchising hip-hop lovers. She issued four albums during the 2000s: Soul Organic (2000), Copasetik & Cool (2004), Soulidified (2006), and Black Rose (2008).

The first album in 14 years from the UK Soul Songstress, Hil St Soul entitled ‘Back In Love’ is out now!

Kayla Amor interview on Colourful Radio 14-August-2022

A voice to be reckoned with and stories to tell; singer-songwriter Kayla Amor, born in Acton, raised between Brent, Hackney and Kentish Town, exhibited musical talent from an early age.

During her teens she played steel pan, sang lead and played trumpet in the ‘Hackney Youth Jazz Orchestra’, moving on to do music production at Tottenham College. She eventually began a career after meeting producer/DJ Shy Cookie whilst studying a degree in music in 2011.

Shy (Alex Mercier) and Ishmael Hamilton invited her to join them as a guest touring with ‘The House and Garage Orchestra’ in 2018 in a trial-by-fire introduction to the industry.

Taking an impromptu break from 2019 until now due to health issues and the pandemic, Kayla found a different approach to the mundanity of recovery and unknowingly created the three tracks that were to become her debut EP ‘Strong Enough’.

‘Strong Enough’ presents her soulful, bluesy vocal abilities over jazz-inspired compositions and lyrics where she begins to open up on some of the intricacies of her lived experiences.

Upcoming projects take her back to her first true love of house and garage including jungle and reggae influences – “I love most genres and would never limit myself, as long as the music is good and there’s a vibe I can rock with I’m bless, anything is possible when you get in the studio.”

Tanika Charles interview on Colourful Radio 29-May-2022

Toronto Soul/R&B powerhouse Tanika Charles’ third studio album Papillon de Nuit: The Night Butterfly available everywhere April 8th, 2022. Featuring the songs “Different Morning”, “Frustrated”, “Hold Me (Like a Grudge)” and “Rent Free”. With production from Safe Spaceship Records, Todd “HiFiLo Pentney, Kevin Henkel and Jesse Bear.

With guest appearances from Toronto rapper DijahSB and multi-disciplinary artist, Khari McClelland, the album was composed and recorded while in and out of lockdowns. Papillon de Nuit is anchored in growth and maturity, the inspiration came from an unlikely source, a creature that soars after the sun sets, but often goes unnoticed until the light shines on it. It is the “papillon de nuit” to some, but drably referred to as a moth by others, revealing a bias in language alone

“I always thought it was a strange insect. Once while in Paris, a friend swatted at one and I asked: ‘Was that a moth?’. I was told: ‘No, that’s a papillon de nuit.’ I thought that was the most beautiful description for this otherwise overlooked creature. When I later learned of the symbolism associated with it, I felt that really spoke to both my own situation and also what we’ve all been going through.”

Paulette Tajah interview on Colourful Radio 15-May-2022

Samm Henshaw interview on Colourful Radio 17-April-2022

Tracy Cruz interview on Colourful Radio 14-Nov-2021

Bright Star Award winning Tracy Cruz has a voice that will melt even the toughest of hearts. This San Francisco Bay Area’s vocal powerhouse aims to connect communities with her universal language of love, hope, and happiness. Her unique musical and lyrical blend (Bay Area urban soul tinged with the influence of her indigenous Filipino roots) has captured the ears of music lovers around the world.

Boasting a range that might be bigger than her, Cruz emanates a classic and timeless feel. Tracy’s two full-length albums (Feel’osophy & Universoul Symphony), EP trilogy (H3ARTIFACTS, ART OF FACTS & PURPLE H3ARTIFACTS) & (Illuminate Love) have garnered numerous awards and nominations. Tracy is currently working on her new album “Sun After the Reign” which will be released soon.

Candace Woodson interview on Colourful Radio 07-Nov-2021

Twenty-eight days after her 2014 breast cancer surgery, Candace Woodson was back to business-as-usual performing at the wedding of one of John “Cougar” Mellencamp’s daughters. This is a testament to Candace Woodson’s lifelong passion for performing and a talent for resilience she calls “stick to it-ness”. A survivor since 2014, she wrote the song “Free,” a funky old school dance anthem that conveys hope and positivity in the wake of adversity. This is a message she conveys stemming from her own experience and feeling after receiving her last cancer treatment at the Medical University of South Carolina.

This success laid the foundation for a handful of other chart-topping singles, including “The Answer Is No”, a defiant female empowerment ballad. “The Answer Is No” hit #1 on the UK Soul Chart Top 30 and has continued to receive airplay on Smooth Jazz Radio as well as other top stations. Woodson received Billboard’s “Most Added” designation and a “Best International Artist” nominee. Her highly anticipated full-length debut album “Desire” includes her UK hits as well as new tracks that would become international fan favorites.

“I’m so grateful for the opportunities I have had in the UK, and it’s exciting now to work with some of the best in the business in expanding my fan base internationally.”

“I have stopped and started the musical part of my life so many times, but this time I will not stop no matter how things play out. To me, my music is very authentic, and it reflects everything I’ve gone through and the soul of someone who has loved music all her life “.

Candace continues to show why her fans dubbed her “The Queen of Sophisticated Soul”. In April of 2021, Candace releases the new up-tempo track “Midas Touch (Ooh Ooh). “Midas Touch (Ooh Ooh)” is off the upcoming EP “Better Days”!

“Midas Touch (Ooh Ooh)” was written by singer-songwriter Candace Woodson, music by Karey A. Davis, and produced by Lew Laing Jr. “There’s nothing like having that special someone in your life that gives you that Midas Touch” says Candace. With cities like New York City and Atlanta continuing to reopen fully from COVID restrictions “Midas Touch (Ooh Ooh)” is an up-tempo track perfect to help get the party started. When asked about creating music during these times Candace states, “With COVID changing the club scene, I wrote a song to reflect the days of call and response on stage with the audience participation. I imagined they were with me in the recording.”

In June of 2021 “Midas Touch (Ooh Ooh)” would propel Candace back to the #1 spot on the UK Soul Charts. Candace continues to create music that’s redefining and solidifying her status as “The Queen of Sophisticated Soul”. With her loyal fans and a base that continues to grow, Candace is steadfast in creating music that fans of all ages can enjoy. When the news came that Midas was #1 Candace immediately thanked listeners, “I want to thank you DJs, loyal listening fans, and the rest of the world. Without your continued support and appreciation, this could not be possible. I do this for you and for my love of music.”

Candace Woodson’s new single ‘All It Takes’ (Rob Hardt Mix), is available now on Expansion Records.

Marshayne interview on Colourful Radio 31-Oct-2021

Marshayne & his team, a collective of creative artists/musicians pushed through the uneven playing field, those unjust barriers & broke down doors, standing tall in Independent Recording Ownership when back in the 80’s/90’s this was unheard of.

Securing Chart Topping Hit Records G-Spot, Slow Grind, Spirit & Hot Gal to name a few.

They allowed others to know “we can do this too”, paving the way for new Black Artists of Caribbean & African decent of today to be seen & heard in an industry that showed no love in the past years to British Black Music & British Black Artist

Therefore the excellence and contributions of the likes of Marshayne, have contributed to the UK Music Industry, penetrating the Global Music Industry as a whole with the UK Reggae & R&B sound that Wayne is known for. It is truly an achievement of great success and one to be overly proud of!!!

The Paradise Projex interview on Colourful Radio 24-Oct-2021

L.A.B interview on Colourful Radio 17-Oct-2021

L.A.B. is a reggae band from New Zealand. Its founding members are Brad Kora (backing vocals and drums) and Stuart Kora (backing vocals, keyboard and guitar) of the band Kora. They soon engaged Joel Shadbolt on lead vocals and guitar, Ara Adams-Tamatea, formerly of Katchafire, as bassist, and Miharo Gregory as keyboardist. The band mostly composes reggae music, with a mix of electronic, blues, rock and funk music.

Cornell “CC” Carter interview on Colourful Radio 10-Oct-2021

Cornell “CC” Carter who was raised in San Francisco California has been recording and performing as a Professional Singer and songwriter for many years.

He has shared the stage as an opening act with the Legendary James Brown, Ray Charles, Sly and the Family Stone and many more. He has also had the honour of recording and performing with Grammy Award Winning Producer and close friend Narada Michael Walden as well as the legendary Carlos Santana to name a few. His soulful sound comes from an unusual wide vocal range from Baritone to First tenor!

In 2018 his big release of the Hit Single THAT FEELING and the follow up THAT’S MY BABY garnered several awards internationally and he was named New Artist of the Year by Soultracks. The highly anticipated new album NEXT LIFE is slated to be released in October 2021!

CC loves to share his talents with aspiring artists which allowed him and his team to create CDC Productions, his own production company geared toward assisting these artists to follow their dreams while also teaching them about the time and dedication it takes to reach their goals. Cornell has been involved with many charities and non-profits over the past few years, and his vision is to continue to uplift and use his platform to help raise the bar and bring new awareness to the legacy of Real Soul Music!

Anthony Hamilton interview on Colourful Radio 03-Oct-2021

With over 50 million albums globally and proclaimed a “national treasure” by the Los Angeles Times, Anthony Hamilton’s voice will resonate louder than ever in 2021 with more music and performances on the horizon.

GRAMMY® Award winning singer, songwriter, producer, and actor Anthony Hamilton has achieved global sales of over 50 million albums. The North Carolina Music Hall of Fame inductee notably performed for President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle, cementing his place in the history books as the “narrator of love.” Introduced by way of the iconic 2003 smash “Charlene,” his raw, awe-inspiring performances garnered the attention of NPR where he starred in their Noteworthy documentary series. He made his film debut in the critically acclaimed American Gangster, and lent his vocals to the song “Freedom” from the Academy® Award-nominated film Django Unchained.

Hamilton now adds author and publisher to his list of accomplishments with the unveiling of his first self-published book, Cornbread, Fish ‘n Collard Greens, where he shares the inspiration for some of the iconic songs in his illustrious career and his love of southern food. Hamilton recently starred as Kyle Kirby in the feature film Carl Weber’s Influence, now streaming on BET+.

“Hamilton literally poured blood, sweat, and tears into [his new 2021] Love Is The New Black [album]. After initially pursuing a more political-leaning direction, he shifted focus to speak to this hefty emotional need, while also
covering the full spectrum of human emotions.”

Howard Hewett interview on Colourful Radio 29-Aug-2021

Howard Hewett is one of the most gifted vocalists in the Post-Marvin Gaye era of pop R&B. He started singing as a child, fronting his older sisters in The Hewett Singers. The group toured the gospel circuit. As a teen, Hewett sharpened his crooner skills in a funk band called Lyfe. In 1976, Hewett moved to Los Angeles and formed a group put together by the owners of the historic Maverick’s Flat, called Beverly Hills.

Hewett got his mainstream break as the male vocal lead in Shalamar, a centerpiece of Dick Griffey’s SOLAR (Sound of Los Angeles Records) label. His tenor voice mixed beautifully with the bright vocals of Jody Watley, the dancing skills of Jeffery Daniels and the writing and production of Leon Sylvers III. The group gave the world feel-good dance favorites The Second Time Around and A Night to Remember, the baby-making classic For the Lover in You, as well as a number of beautiful B-side ballads like You Can Count On Me and Somewhere There’s a Love. When Watley and Daniels left the group in 1983, Hewett continued to lead Mickey Free and Delisa Davis in the reconstituted Shalamar. This version of the group was best known for soundtrack contributions on Footloose and Beverly Hills Cop with Dancing in the Sheets and the Grammy-winning Don’t Get Stopped in Beverly Hills, respectively.

In the mid-eighties, Howard sets out on his solo career, releasing I Commit to Love in 1986 on Elektra and from the first single Hewett made magic, giving his amorous voice and whimsical lyrics to Stay, I’m For Real and the title track. Most beloved track on this freshman release would be his spiritually grounded Say Amen. This single soared on the Inspirational charts and has enjoyed the status of a modern gospel classic.

Subsequent projects have solidified Hewett’s place in the high ranks of R&B balladeers by writing and collaborating and lending his voice within an intimate group of crooners, including George Duke, Quincy Jones, James Ingram, Anita Baker, Prince and Stanley Clarke. With Elektra, he released Forever and Ever (1988- Once, Twice, Three Times), Howard Hewett (1990- Show Me) and Allegiance (1992- Can We Try Again).

Later work shows increasing authenticity as Hewett rips song lyrics straight from his soul. It’s Time (1994- This Love is Forever), written and produced almost exclusively with long time friend and collaborator Monte Seward, displays all the vulnerability involved in falling and staying in love. In 2001, Hewett released the all inspirational album The Journey, where he shows us that his faith can’t be separated from his heart and soul.

Hewett continues to seduce audiences and eardrums as he is constantly touring and intermittently releasing new music.

“Of all the fine vocalists working today, Howard Hewett is one of the finest.” – Babyface

Conya Doss interview on Colourful Radio 13-Jun-2021

Conya Doss’ 9th LP, “Through Rose-Colored Glasses,” reflects constant duality in its meaning.

Doss states. “…..For me, generally, the term means perceiving everything as great, and focusing on the positives in every situation. On the other hand, it can also be viewed as giving the perception that all is great but when we look completely THROUGH the beautiful rose-colored glasses, we find a mesh of complexities and imperfections. Often such an outlook is necessary in order to cope…”.

This project is a culmination of all of the above. The first single, “Not Trading You,” consisting of smooth rhythmic midtempo vibes, shows that despite the ups and downs of a relationship, the good outweighs the bad. Consistent with this concept is “Long Haul” (Antione Amalbert on Trumpet), which demonstrates unconditional love no matter what. The song “It Ain’t Easy” featuring the incomparable Eric Roberson, focuses on the strength of two people who realize that relationships are not always perfect or easy to build, but love rules all and is worth it.

Conversely, Seeing things only ‘Through Rose-Colored Glasses’ may not be in our best interest. Sometimes it is necessary to see things just as they are. Occasionally with open communication and transparency, things could possibly turn around. This leads to Conya’s second single from this LP entitled “Wishful Thinking,” featuring B. Golden. “Wishful Thinking” is a feel-good groove that demonstrates that things are exactly how we see them, whether or not we accept it. Another song that draws parallels is “Sand Castles” featuring OsKeyz, which stresses that all relationships have been built on a solid foundation.

Other standout songs are “Come on and Get this Love,” “Happy Valley” featuring OsKeyz, “Show Me” featuring Lin Rountree. These grooves are so funky, you will inevitably either bob your head or repeat the hooks. “Black is Beautiful” provides creative songwriting letting us know that no matter what negative portrayals of black people, Conya reiterate in her messaging that black people always have and will continue to a strong, resilient people . “Funny” featuring the talented Micki Miller is another soulfully jazzy tune encouraging others to be patient and true love will present itself right on time. Doss, Myron Davis, and Rodney Jones serve as the main producers on “Through Rose-Colored Glasses” in addition to producers B. Golden Micki Miller.

Gwen Yvette interview on Colourful Radio 06-Jun-2021

Gwen Yvette is an independent R&B/Soul singer and songwriter from Beaufort, SC. An artist with extraordinary talent and vocal range, the Harlem-born, St. Helena Island product first picked up a microphone at the tender age of three and performed at community events. Gwen first entered the music scene as a professional singer in the early 1990’s, performing with a popular local band and was later invited to tour with notable musician Roy C. In 2012, the songstress had a successful run on Fox’s national television series, “The X Factor”.

In 2015, Gwen Yvette launched her solo career and in February 2016, she released her debut single titled, “So In Love”. This release propelled Gwen into the spotlight, garnering national media recognition, performance opportunities nationwide and a rising star status. That year, she also won Female R&B Artist of the Year at the South Carolina Music Awards. In June of 2017, Gwen released her long-awaited album titled, “Love, Dreams & Visions”, a project that exemplifies her love of music. Soulstress, Gwen Yvette performs with her band, TC Soul (named for her beloved Father) throughout the south eastern US regularly.

Gwen Yvette counts it all joy to have been blessed with the opportunities to open for outstanding and legendary musicians, to include Big Daddy Kane, Carl Thomas, Shirley Murdock, Keith Sweat, Kem, Sir Jeffrey Osborne, Ms. Patti LaBelle, and The Mighty O’Jays!

Gwen Yvette is one of the more sought-after singers throughout South Carolina and beyond, as is evident from her booking in the UK in fall 2019 as part of the Soul Jones Collective Tour, and again as a headliner of the I Am Woman UK 2020 Tour, an International Women’s Day Celebration.

Gwen Yvette continues to write, record, and release music, and perform live at special events-corporate and private, live music festivals and live music venues throughout the southeast.

Pockets interview on Colourful Radio 23-May-2021