Second Listen Sunday : Luther Vandross, “This Is Christmas”
R&B legend Luther Vandross had already solidified his place in R&B when he released his first holiday album, “This Is Christmas. Arriving in stores on October 24, 1995, “This Is Christmas” validates Vandross’s ability to sing anything.
Slow Jam Saturday : Jagged Edge, “This Is Christmas”
As the 2024 holiday season kicks off, I wanted to highlight R&B tunes with a festive feel for Slow Jam Saturday in December. First is Jagged Edge and their contribution to the compilation album “Jermaine Dupri Presents 12 Soulful Nights Of Christmas.”
“Beatles 64” hits all the right notes
Director David Tedeschi collaborates with esteemed producer Martin Scorsese to examine the significant impact of The Beatles’ inaugural visit to the United States in the documentary “Beatles ’64,” available on Disney+.
Colman Domingo continues to excel as a thespian in the engaging series, “The Madness”
Colman Domingo, an Academy Award nominee, is experiencing a noteworthy year as he collaborates once again with Netflix to lead the limited series “The Madness.”
“She Taught Love” exemplifies the beauty of black love
Director Nate Edwards transitions from short films to narrative features with the compelling black love story “She Taught Love,” available on Hulu. Darrell Britt-Gibson, who also occupies the leading role, authored the screenplay.
“The Substance” is a glorious gore fest
Director and writer Coralie Fargeat has partnered with the esteemed actress Demi Moore for her second feature film, “The Substance,” which has been released by Mubi.
Second Listen Sunday : Qunicy Jones, “The Dude”
Released on March 26, 1981, the album features the prominent track “Ai No Corrida,” which immerses listeners in a novel sonic environment characterized by an impactful opening and memorable melodic hooks. This record is a compelling amalgamation of rhythmic nuance and musical appeal, underscored by sophisticated production that showcases Quincy Jones’s exceptional abilities as a producer. It is a significant artistic statement that lays the groundwork for an extraordinary auditory journey.
Slow Jam Saturday : “Everything”, Quincy Jones feat. Tevin Campbell
For this week’s Slow Jam Saturday, I wanted to continue giving flowers to Quincy Jones and highlight one of his album tracks, “Everything.” The lush ballad finds Jones working with Tevin Campbell on a track for the first time since Campbell’s debut album. Andy Hill and Antonina Armato wrote ” Everything ” about grief, yearning, and the desire to reconnect with an ex.
Album Review : Ruben Studdard, “My Favorite Holiday”
As the 2024 holiday season approaches, music lovers can expect holiday-themed releases from some of their favorite singers. One of the first to arrive is from “American Idol” Season 2 winner Ruben Studdard. Titled “My Favorite Holiday,” the five-song EP features Christmas standards and an original song.
“Cruel Intentions” is a half-hearted reboot
Prime Video presents a beloved nineties classic with a new adaptation in the eight-episode series “Cruel Intentions.” Developed by Phoebe Fisher and Sara Goodman, the show is based on the 1999 film directed by Roger Kumble, a modern retelling of Pierre Choderlos de Laclos’ 1782 novel “Les Liaisons Dangereuses.”
“Wicked” is a high-flying adaptation
“Wicked” presents the untold narrative of the witches of Oz, specifically Elphaba (portrayed by Cynthia) and Glinda (portrayed by Ariana Grande), who encounter one another at Shiz University in the enchanting Land of Oz. Elphaba, who possesses distinctive green skin, faces misunderstanding from those around her and has yet to realize her true potential. In contrast, Glinda is a figure of fame and vanity, shaped by privilege and ambition, yet she has not discovered her genuine self.
“The Merry Gentlemen” delivers cliched but harmless holiday fun
Director Peter Sullivan collaborates with former CW stars Britt Robertson and Chad Michael Murray in his latest film for Netflix, “The Merry Gentlemen.” Marla Sokoloff pens the film’s screenplay and also has a co-starring role.