Tag: throwbacks

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30Day Music Challenge – Day 14-20

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Day 14: (A song played at my wedding);

I love today’s challenge!!! As a Nigerian, music is very important to our culture so song choice is very vital. the song I will be picking is by Nigerian Superstar D’Banj. The song is D’Banj singing about how he has fallen for a woman who has changed him in the best way possible. I have loved this song from the beginning of time and I can guarantee this song will be played.

D’Banj – Fall in Love (2009)

Day 15: A song that is a cover by another Artist;

It’s crazy to think that some covers of songs sometimes sound even better than the original versions. The first song that came to my head would have to be the late Aretha Franklin’s song ‘Respect‘ ( 1965). Most people probably have not even heard the original version of this song by Otis Redding. Needles to say it was Aretha’s version that propelled this song into the hall of fame.

Day 16: One of my favourite songs from a movie;

I’m feeling very motivational at the moment so the first song that comes to mind is an upbeat song! The song is called “Believe” from the film Honey and is from US artist Yolanda Adams, released in 2003. I used to play this song every morning before my exams when I was in school and is still one of my favourite songs. With lyrics such as “You can never give up, you can reach your goals, just talk to your soul and say…
I believe I can (I can)”. This song is beautiful and the lyrics and sentiments that you should always believe in yourself and keep going are lessons everyone needs to be reminded of.

Day 17: A song that features my favourite artist;

I have more than one favourite artist so I will pick a song that features some of my favourites. Rick Ross and Jay Z are two of my favourite rappers alive. This song is amazing enough to feature the both of them. The common theme between Hov and Ross is that they both have the ability to rap and tell stories that you want to listen to. Both rappers remind me of Biggie and his rapping style. Have a listen below.

Day 18:A song from the year I was born (1993);

Day 19: A song that makes me think about Life;

Again this is hard to pinpoint. Most songs I love make me think about life in different aspects. It could be about love, heartbreak, happiness, sadness, God, family…all aspects of life. A song by Gospel group The Walls Group called ‘Satisfied‘ is an example of a song that made me think about life. The song made me question my priorities in chasing materialstic things when I should be chasing my relationship with God.

Day 20: A song that reminds me of my mum;

Wow!! My mum loves music as much as me so this is hard to pin to one song! My mum always told me whatever you go through in life, know someone else has gone through it already and has a song about it. Any Motown song reminds me of my mum but this song in particular is one her favourites!

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30Day Music Challenge – Day 13; (One of my favourite 70s songs)

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The 70’s was way before my time but really music is timeless! My entry for one of my favourite 70’s song is from the wonderful Gladys Knight & the Pips.

The song has lines that stick with me; “I’d rather live in his world than live without him in mine”. Such powerful words demonstrating the love she has got her man. To her, life isn’t worth living without him. Beautiful.

Gladys Knight & the Pips – Midnight Train to Georgia (1973)

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30Day Music Challenge – Day 12; (Songs that I love from 2011)

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2011 was an incredible year for Hip-Hop and music as a whole. As you can probably tell by now I can never seem to stick to one song for these challenges so here’s a few songs released in 2011 that I love;

1. Big Sean Ft Chris Brown – My Last (2011)

Wow! I remember exactly where I was when I first heard this song! It was being premiered on the old BET hit show ‘106 & Park’. I remember it being the day I fell in love with Big Sean and his music. The song definitely was the song that propelled Sean into stardom. We can’t forget the impact Chris Brown’s vocals have in this song, I’m sure Chris Brown can slay every feature.

2. Drake – Headlines (2011)

This was the first song to be released from Drake’s legendary “Take Care” album. To be honest, the whole album could be in this post but I’ll stick to one for now. The song gave us the impression that Drake was developing a lot of confidence from his success and was ready to share it with the world. The song was produced by ‘Boi-1da’ and ‘Noah “40″ Shebib’ and the production is incredible especially towards the end of the song. Favourite line has to be ; “I guess it really is just me, myself and all my millions”! What a line!!!

3. Wretch 32 Ft Josh Kumra – Don’t Go (2011)

UK music was big in 2011 and this song in particular was a popular one. Wretch 32 could be argued to be one of the country’s great rappers. Wretch 32’s clever wordplay and Josh Kumra’s soothing voice make a match made in heaven.

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30Day Music Challenge – Day 11; (Songs I never get tired of)

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There are actually so many songs that I never get tired of but I will name a few;

1. J Hus – Did You See (2017)

Whether it’s J Hus’ voice or JAE5’S gift of producing the best beats, this song can never get old in my opinion. It’s the sort of song that should also always be played out loud to feel the beauty of the production. This was possibly one of the best songs released last year and as of now, I am still not tired of it.

2. Chris Brown – Little Bit (2015)

You can probably tell that beats are very important for me in songs and this song is the prime example of an excellent song production wise. I have been playing this song regularly ever since the album was released.

3. Notorious B.I.G – Juicy (1994)

This song is a classic! One of Biggie’s biggest hits and still today gets played as if it were released recently. The song provides a sense of nostalgia that can never be matched!

4. Usher – Confessions (ALBUM) (2004)

If I was stuck on an island and was only given the choice to listen to one album for the rest of my time there, it would be this one. Every single song on this album can be played daily depending on what mood you are in. The album can never be overplayed and I can never get tired of it.

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30Day Music Challenge – Day 10; (Sad)

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Today is the 10th which means it’s time for Day 10 of the challenge! As I gave 12 songs that make me happy it’s only right I give a few songs that make me sad.

1. Jennifer Lopez Ft. LL Cool J – All I have (2002)

Something about this song that can just put you in your feelings. “Be easy don’t make decisions when you’re mad”…that quote stuck with me throughout the song. The video is memorable too with the snow and the fur and the pinkness!

2. Fantasia – Lose to Win (2013)

“if it makes you cry, cry, cry”, Fantasia has the ability to demonstrate her emotions perfectly in a song. This song implies that in life sometimes you have to take a loss in order to win / be happy again. The song also shows how no matter how hard you try with someone, sometimes it’s not enough for them & you have to accept it.

3. Chris Brown – The Breakup (2015)

This song wasn’t released officially but it was on Chris Brown’s “Before the Party” Mixtape. The song resonates with me because I believe it’s a vulnerable side to Chris. He talks about how he was stuck between being happy about the fact he was due to be a father but also sad about the fact he has hurt his girlfriend at the time. The song reminds me of Usher – Confessions to an extent.

4. Rihanna Ft. Ne-Yo- Hate that I Love you (2007)

Love this song but the content gives me an element of sadness. That feeling when you can’t let go of something and you hate that you don’t have that control!

5. Diddy Ft Faith Evans & 112 – I’ll Be Missing You (1997)

This song was released as a tribute to the late Notirious B.I.G & is such a beautiful tribute at that. The blending of Faith Evans and Diddy with 112 makes this song the perfect classic. The song will have you missing people yourself.

6. Brandy & Ray J – Another Day in Paradise (2002)

7. Aretha Franklin – Bridge over troubled water (1971)

8. K-Ci & JoJo – All My Life (1997)

9. Nas – Dance (2002)

10. Maxwell – This Woman’s Work (2001)

This song was originally by Kate Bush but Maxwell’s version was featured in the classic film “Love & Basketball“. The high notes in this song are enough to pull at your heartstrings.

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30Day Music Challenge – Day 9

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As today is the 9th…I will include 12 different songs that make me happy & explain my reasoning behind the choices.

1. Notorious B.I.G – Juicy (1994)

Okkkkkkkk!!! I am a HUGE Biggie fan but this song does things to me! Whatever my mood, as long as I hear “IT’S ALL GOOD BABY BABY. IT WAS ALL A DREAM”, I’m sold! This song is probably already in the hall of fame for one of the most iconic songs of the past few decades.

2. Notorious B.I.G – Mo Money Mo Problems Ft.Mase & Diddy (1997)

Another Biggie entry!!! The video in particular for this song was released after his death and is probably why people have a sense of love for this song! The nostalgic feel of Diana Ross’ song “I’m coming Out” also provides the track with a unique feel. “B.I.G. P.O.P.P.A”….another legendary and memorable intro to a Biggie verse! Eugh! This song to me is the definition of happiness!

3. Blue – U make Me Wanna (2002)

My music preference is very wild I’m aware. I was a huge fan of Blue when I was younger and this song in particular has such a positive feel. The video is of them on a yacht and it used to make me so happy to watch when I was younger.

4. Westlife – World of Our Own. (2001)

Another pop classic! Another song I remember memorising when I was younger! The lyrics are beautiful and I love how pop music was just about happiness and love in those days. The harmonies in this song were also way ahead of their time! Even listening now, I am amazed! Have a listen below!

5. S Club 7 – Bring it all Back (1999)

I was also a huge fan of S Club 7 when I was younger & even now listening to this song I believe the message is relevant. “Don’t stop, never give up
Hold your head high and reach the top”…such an inspirational song.

6. Cam’Ron Ft Juelz Santana – Hey Ma (2002)

A CLASSIC! How can you NOT be happy listening to this song!? Even the beat makes me smile! Reminds me of simpler times when rappers were polite….when bandannas were in fashion, people used to crip walk, when men used to wear oversized clothes! Good times.

7. Bow Wow Ft Chris Brown – Shortie Like Mine (2006)

I was a huge Bow Wow fan for a very long time. I have all of his old albums and this particular song was huge when it came out! Chris Brown was just becoming big and this collaboration definitely had every girl in love! This song definitely makes me happy.

8. Ja Rule Ft Ashanti – Mesmerize (2002)

The video for this was a parody of Grease and I will never forget it! The blending of Ja Rule and Ashanti’s voices will always sound beautiful. They always has hits but listening to this song again makes me feel nostalgic and that will always bring out my happiness.

9. Drake Ft Young Thug – Ice Melts (2017)

A more recent song from Drake featuring Young Thug. This song makes me happy due to the fact the beats is wonderful, the drop is wonderful and Drake’s harmonies are a wonderful sound. The lyrics are also pretty sweet and all in all, this song definitely makes me feel a sense of happiness when listening.

10. Kanye West Ft. Chris Brown – Waves (2016)

“Sun don’t shine in the shade….A bird can’t fly in the cage”. Those intro lines resonate with me. This is definitely a song that needs to be played out loud to appreciate the beat!

11. Jay Z Ft. J Cole – A Star is Born (2009)

This song is so amazing to listen to now because Jay Z really predicted a lot of greats. “Drake’s up next…see what he do with it”…amazing to hear.

12. Keri Hilson Ft Kanye West – Knock You Down (2009)

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30 Day Music Challenge 1-8

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I recently posted a challenge that I am now going to backtrack.

Day 1 – A song with a colour in the title:

Love this song by Bonkaz on one of his EPs. Check it out below ;

Day 2 – A song with a number in the title:

I’ve posted this song before. It’s a track by British rapper Tinie Tempah from his “Junk Food” Mixtape. The song features UK Sensation J Hus. This in my opinion is one of the best J Hus feature verses he has produced.

Day 3 -A song that reminds me of Summertime:

Any 90s song reminds me of Summertime due to the fact I feel happy and free when I listen to a song from that era. However, if I had to pick a more recent one it would have to be Kano – “T-shirt weather in the Manor”. Anytime the sun is out and the temperature is high, this is one of the songs that comes to mind.

Day 4 – A song that reminds me of someone you’d rather forget about:

This is a funny one….for me anyone that’s had a part in my life usually has a song I associate with them. If I had to pick, I would choose K Camp – Money Baby. That song reminds me of all the mysoginistic people I have met in my life.

Day 5 – A song that needs to be played loud:

Every song needs to be played loud! If I had to pick one (of many) I would say J Hus – Did you See.

Day 6 – A song that makes you want to dance:

It’s hard to go all the way back but at the moment it has to be song of the moment “In my Feelings” by Drake. I dare anyone to listen to that song without busting out their Shiggy moves.

Day 7 – A song to drive to:

The best songs to drive to have to contain a big amount of bass. Not too hyped up so you can concentrate on the road but enough to make you want to bop your head. I would have to recommend two songs that will have you in your feelings. One by 169 and Dave – Got You & the second by Yo Trane – High Off You.

Day 8 – A song about drugs or alcohol:

First artist that comes to head is Eminem. Eminem released an album called Relapse in 2009 where he rapped about alcohol and drugs among other issues. One of the songs titled “My Mom” documents how Eminem blames his mum’s drug taking for the reason he is also an addict.

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“They don’t make them like this anymore”. (Album) – Mario

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I have always been an avid music lover and every month I will try and give you a review from an old album that I still love. Back in the days when physical copies of CDs were the only way to play music and albums were really important.

This month’s entry is from US R&B singer Mario and his album “Turning Point” which was released in 2004.

Mario became well known for his 2002 song “Just a Friend” featured on his first album and which is also added here.

My favourite tracks on this album have to be:

18: This is the first track on the album and I feel it was very necessary to start off the project. Most people would still see Mario as the young boy in his “Just a Friend” song and so this intro track reminds us that’s he’s “grown up”.

Stand out Line: “Next time y’all underestimate me (Don’t do that)”

Let Me Love You: Classic throwback. This song was so big when it came out and rightly so and is still probably Mario’s biggest hit. The song, which was written by Ne-Yo had a beautiful sentiment behind it and I’m sure everyone remembers the baggy clothes Mario wore in the video! The song is based in Mario pleading with a woman to leave her unhappy relationship and be with him as he would treat her like the Queen she is.

Stand out Line: “You’re a dime plus 99 and it’s a shame, don’t even know what you’re worth”

Couldn’t say No: The tone of the album changes with this song as we start to see Mario isn’t as innocent as we think. This song is Mario asking for forgiveness and trying to explain why he cheated on his girl (“Couldn’t say No”). The production on this song is really good too.

Stand out Line: “I got bad news that I gotta break to you. I know you gonna act a fool but I gotta let her know”.

Boom: This song features Juvenile and from the first few seconds you can tell how upbeat the song is going to be. This song for me embodies a classic early 00’s song. Listening to it now, you can’t help but feel a little nostalgic. There are many references to lyrics from old 90s songs too which help.

Stand out Line: “Represent yo town” (When the beat changes and he names some places)

How Could You: This song is like the opposite of “Couldn’t Say No”. We get the impression his girl has cheated on him and here he sings about hurt. The songs feels like a typical R&B song with the slow melody, the frequent harmonies and Mario singing his heart out.

Stand out Line: “How could you put him on to the Ghetto Kama Sutra??”

Girl I Need: The song featuring Cham has a reggae feel that fits so well. Mario sings about the qualities he wants in a potential girl and with his harmonies make this song one of my favourites. Cham’s verse is also a great addition.

Stand out Line: “I need a girl that smart (and really intelligent) a girl with heart somebody who dont take no shit”

Here I Go Again: This song is about Mario who keeps going back to an ex despite the negative things she does. He begins to question his strength seeing as he keeps going back to the stress and aggro. Probably a very relatable situation with some people.

Stand out Line: “Am I crazy? Have I lost myself? Is this a sin?”

Nikes Fresh Out The Box: Here Mario compares his woman to a fresh pair of Nike Air Forces! Sneakerheads will see the connection..the idea that he will treat her as something precious like he does with his trainers. I’ve yet to hear an analogy like this and it is quite a compliment to compare a woman to something he cares about the most. The sentiment reminds me of a different version of metaphysical poetry where lovers are compared to unusual objects.

Stand out Line: “I see her, I want her, Got to have her like (Nikes fresh out the box)”

Like Me Real Hard: I love the vulnerability in this song. Mario is singing as a man who has suffered heartbreak in the past and is trying to convince a woman he likes, who also has suffered, that she should take a risk with him. He encourages her to take it slow explains that he does not want to rush into anything serious. I like how he sings about reassuring the woman who is obviously having doubts.

Stand out Line: “We’ve been broken by love and we both need time to heal”

C’Mon: This song is such a feel good song from the beginning to the end. The production is also great.

Stand out Line: “Where did you come from, I wanna thank your moms for bringin’ u into this life, and makin u my type”

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SlowJam Sunday

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‘Hurts the Most‘ is a song by US singer Monica from her 2003 album “After the Storm”. The album also features her famous hit “So Gone”.

‘Hurts the Most’ is an emotional song based on how someone may feel when they bump into someone they once loved. All the love and emotion they may have felt for them may come back. Monica sings in the first verse; “Boy, it’s been a long time since the last time I saw you. Feels like nothin’ changed since we’ve been together”… even after all this time, the love is still there.

The song also explores the feelings when that love has moved on; “& recently you found someone that you
decided to dedicate your whole life to…& baby, what hurts the most is letting go”. The rawness one may feel when you realise that the other person has closed the door completely on you even though you still saw hope. The most wonderful thing about this song is the emotion you feel from Monica. The song feels extremely personal and is a situation that is very relatable to a lot of people.

The song is filled with regret, love, loss and the most important…acceptance.

I love songs that have the potential to make you cry or laugh or reminisce over something that may have happened in your life. This song is a prime example of that.

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Throwback Thursday (US Style)

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Beyoncé’s third studio album released in 2008, “I Am… Sasha Fierce” was possibly one of her best albums. The album featured two disks. The first one focusing on her usual slow/R&B ballads while the second focused on her alter ego ‘Sacha Fierce’ meaning more uptempo songs.

The song ‘Scared of Lonely’ was featured on the deluxe version and focusses on Beyoncé asking for care and attention in the relationship. Beyoncé as the ability to convey the emotions she wings about. The song allows us to witness a vulnerable side; “I’m scared of lonely & I’m scared of being the only shadow I see along the wall”. The lyrics in this song portray Beyoncé as a woman who is being neglected from her other half.

The song showcases Beyoncés vocal range and the only regret was that this was not released as a single.

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Throwback Thursday (UK Style)

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In 2015 British rapper Tinie Tempah released his ‘Junk Food’ mixtape. The tape featured some of the UK’S best artists. The mixtape was Tinie Tempah reminding people that he was still a rapper. This particular song ‘100 Friends’ features one of our best… J Hus.

The verse from J Hus could be argued to be one of his best guest verses. A particular line that sticks out “If she don’t like Hus, then she must like women”. Hus uses his clever punchlines to articulate his talent throughout the whole verse. Another great thing about this song is the production produced by the incredible Nana Rogues. He also produced ‘Been The man’, ‘We don’t play no games’, ‘Autogas’, ‘Look at me and ‘Might Flip’ on the tape.

Have a listen below if you haven’t heard the song or the mixtape.