K'Alexi (Klassic)/Lost in House Music Part 3

"The Dancer" Part 2 Out On K Klassik Records...
Get ur's ASAP!!!!! Digital & Wax

Check it out at....
http://datatransmission.co.uk/blog/k-alexi-shelby-dancer-remixes

Dj 50 Millz/Afro Boogie Baby Vol. 2

https://soundcloud.com/dj-50-millz/afro-boogie-baby-vol-2-mp3

Song of the Day..Cross Roads = Ron Trent Feat; Tkumah Sadeek

Gary Cummings/Steppin Outiside My Box Vol. 12

https://soundcloud.com/gary-cummings/steppin-outiside-my-box-vol-12

Tribe Records/Tyrone Francis Mix Monday

https://soundcloud.com/triberecords/tyrone-francis-mix-monday

Osunlade/Yoruba Plays...

https://soundcloud.com/osunlade/yoruba-plays

Dj Petite/SSS v26 La Mezcla My Birthday Mix

http://djpetite.podomatic.com/entry/2013-04-21T17_09_33-07_00

Get Lifted 103 - Lady Duracell

Song of the Day.....Nathan Adams - Sending You My Love

Anthony Nicholson-Imperfect Imperfections(bare) promo mix-listen only

http://www.mixcloud.com/anthonynicholson/anthony-nicholson-imperfect-imperfectionsbare-promo-mix-listen-only/

Ian Friday Live @ Oasis 2nd Anniversary Montreal

https://soundcloud.com/ian-friday/ian-friday-live-oasis-2nd

Boo Williams Strictly Jaz Unit Easy Days 1 Mix

https://soundcloud.com/fabric/boo-williams-strictly-jazz

David Morales and Quentin Harris Live @Vagabond Miami WMC 2013

https://soundcloud.com/quentin_harris/david-morales-quentin-harris

VA - SOUL & SPIRIT (Mixed by Dj Re Noir) - VA - SOUL & SPIRIT (Mixed by Dj Re Noir) by DjRenoir (Soulful House Mix)

History Of Soulful 244 by dj0648 (Soulful House Mix)

The Deep End Vol. 14 - The Deep End Vol. 14 by PhatJules (Deep House Mix)

Mr Dj Cheese/CHEESETRACKS LIVE on LWR (London Worldwide Radio) - Sun July 21 2013 Show 34

CHEESETRACKS LIVE on LWR (London Worldwide Radio) - Sun July 21 2013 Show 34

Another Sasha Compilation/Dj Housecat

https://soundcloud.com/feelmysoul-compilations/another-shasha-compilation-2 —

Let's Go Dancing EP -Grand High Priest (Nocturnal Groove )

The Grand High Priest has done it again...f you haven't purchased your copy yet..The Time is Now..This track is off the Chain..Guaranteed to get the party ..Come on Let's Go Dancing..The dance floor is waiting...New Hawt Release from the Grand High Priest..Make sure you get your copy TODAY at...http://traxsource.com/title/230901/lets-go-dancing-ep

Big Time (Remix) J-Skilz & D-Mass Spins & Needles

The Big Time Remix EP is a special funky house project that builds on the debut track by DJs/producers J-Skilz and D-Mass. It features remixes from three of the best independent funky house producers in the business today:

Wayne Brett (LoFrequency radio show / Flosshatt Recordings / OXO / Funk Mansion) (UK)
Doc Manny (House Call Records / OXO / Midwest Hustle Records (Portland)
Ignacio Robles (Caliber Sounds, H.A.R.D., Funk Mansion, House Call, Juiced, Cabbie Hat) (Argentina)

You’ll also find a revised edit of the original by Greg Records, who did the mastering on the release, also included.
The original was released on the Caliber Sounds Miami Sampler last spring. Click on the link below and get your purchase TODAY

https://www.stompy.com/Ep/546456

Paris Cesvette/Lounge-Suite-Session-002

http://www.mixcloud.com/paris-cesvette/lounge-suite-session-002/

Anticx - Summer [Mix]

Mr. Zills/Flight-of-the-Phoenix

https://soundcloud.com/mrzills/flight-of-the-pheonix

Alan King"Late Night Sessions" (July 2013)

"Late Night Sessions" (July 2013)

Joey Negro/Live at Soul Heaven Pool Party Ocean Beach Ibiza July 2013

https://soundcloud.com/joeynegro/joey-negro-live-at-soul

Boolu's Blurred House Lines by Boolu Master

http://soundcloud.com/boolumaster/boolus-blurred-house-lines

Greg Winfield/Let's Go!!!

Let's Go!!!

Collective Minds Festival in Baltimore on September 1, 2013

Sept 1 Collective Minds Festival l BALTIMORE ((please Donate)

www.Cmfestival.org

Monsieur Cedric - Soulful - January 2013

https://soundcloud.com/monsieur_cedric/monsieur-cedric-soulful

COLLECTIVE MINDS FESTIVAL.....In Baltimore on Labor Day Sunday, September 1, 2013

Make sure you save the Date for the Collective Minds Festival in Baltimore.The event will held on Labor Day Sunday, September 1, 2013.This will be there 10 year Anniversary and it is going to be MASSIVE.. To get more info on the event, please click the link below at http://www.cmfestival.org/home.html

Tribe Records #MIXMONDAY v9.0 | Sean McCabe Edition

https://soundcloud.com/triberecords/sean-mccabe-mix-mondays

Djeff Afrozila/Tribe Records #MIXMONDAY v7.0 | Djeff Edition

https://soundcloud.com/triberecords/djeff-mix-monday

Dj Brett/Hot off the Presses

https://soundcloud.com/dj-brett/hot-off-the-presses

Sam Goody/Harmony

https://soundcloud.com/dj-jizz/harmony

K' Alexi Shelby- My Gift 2 U Part 1

http://www.mixcloud.com/KaayAlexi/k-alexi-shelby-my-gift-2-u-part-1/

The House of Soul – Dj Housecat June 17,2013

http://souloasis.cyberjamz.com/?p=1717

Dimitri From Paris live @ Pacha Ibiza For Defected In The House Aug 18 2012

https://soundcloud.com/dfp/dfp-live-pacha-ibiza-for

Joey Negro/6Mix, BBC 6 Music

https://soundcloud.com/joeynegro/joey-negro-6mix-bbc-6-music

Collective Minds Festival 2013

Make sure you click on the link to get more information

http://www.cmfestival.org/home.html

Tomasz Wakulewski - Sunset Session S.O.S Supper Club, Bali 11/07/12

https://soundcloud.com/tomasz-wakulewski/tomasz-wakulewski-sunset

Dj Marcia Carr/ I Love the Underground 6ix

http://www.mixcloud.com/Marcia_CarrtheDJ/i-love-the-underground-6ix/

Josh Grooves 'Exclusive Mix' for Makin' Moves Party - Sat 19th Jan 2013

https://soundcloud.com/makinmovesuk/josh-grooves-exclusive-mix-for

Dj Kitty Amor/House Es Amor Vol. 3

House Es Amor Vol. 3

Bruce Walker/Besos Vol 5 Euphoria !!!!!

Besos Vol 5 Euphoria !!!!!

DjPierre Harris/PipelinerSC Coming Soon...!! w/o Tags

https://soundcloud.com/djpierre-harris/pipelinersc-coming-soon-w-o

Bigg Easy & Celestethedj Tag your it

https://soundcloud.com/celestethedj-chicago/bigg-easy-celestethedj-tag

Get Lifted 99 - Lady Duracell

Exclusive Interview with Joshua Milan

Joshua Milan

(Singer, Songwriter, Producer and Label Owner)

Josh Milan is one of those rare artists in this business whose music is truly timeless. You can play his remix (along with co-producer Kevin Hedge) of Cold Cut featuring Lisa Stansfield’s pop dance hit, "People Hold On", today and it still sounds as fresh as it did 16 years ago, or Blaze's, "Can't Win for Losing", you'll find lyrics that are forever relevant. His catalog totals over two-hundred published works, making it the largest catalog produced by any single entity in the genre. As artist and businessman, he has been involved in almost every facet of the music business.

After 25 years on the scene, Josh Milan is just as current as he was then, producing relevant hits today as he did back in 1985. "I'm doing what I'm supposed to be doing." Josh further explains, "Music is Gods voice and my ears are pressed against his lips." JOSH MILAN has been a student of music ever since he was in grade school in Brooklyn, NY. At an early age, through the influence of his mother, he learned to appreciate music from many different genres. "I believe that music is an extension of a man’s inner self" Josh says. He grew up in a religious household, and learned to play the organ in the church. He later teamed up with Chris Herbert and Kevin Hedge and the three of them formed the performing/production team known as Blaze. Co-writing and producing many artists, along with Hedge, became the primary focus. As his career blossomed, Josh learned to arrange vocal harmony, and vocal performance.

After 20 years of writing, arranging, and performing music, Josh is yet playing in the church and staying true to his roots in Gospel music. Josh Milan is writing and producing a full length CD that will feature songs written and produced by him. "Sandra St. Victor, ChinahBlac, Crystal Johnson, Cinnamon Brown, Honey Sweet, and a few others have lent their talents to complete this project. It's going to be awesome" Josh says. "There is a lot of live instrumentation that the industry has gotten away from. That's the main reason I'm starting Honeycomb Music. I wanted to be in full control of the music that comes out. Labels like to have a hand in your music. The industry has a way of dictating what some producers feel they should produce. I'm choosing to march to my own BEAT. After that project comes out sometime this Summer, I will be finishing my solo project. I'm looking forward to an extremely creative year!"

MzHouse Diva: We know your career first kicked off with Blaze, but how did you get started with the group?

Josh: The lead vocalist and myself were church buddies. I was a musician in my church and he was a singer. He introduced me to a DJ friend of his that wanted to form a group that was patterned after Larry Levan's "Peech Boys." After a few jam sessions we began to write songs together and eventually landed a session in the studio to record our first song. We gave the music to a few local DJ's and won the attention of a small record label in NYC, and our career began.

MzHouse Diva: What happened to Blaze and is there any plans in the future for any collaborations?

Josh: Blaze's demise is an all too common story in the music industry. To make a long story short, I've been a producer, songwriter, artist for the past 27 years in Blaze and not a business man. And therein lies the problem. The artist/musician wants to record music and have people listen and enjoy their creations. Business is an after thought. The artist would much rather have someone else handle the business. I allowed my partner to handle the business. And I was totally taken advantage of for many years. Lots of money was taken from me, that I truly was unaware of. But I take half of the responsibility. I should not have allowed anyone to handle MY business. And that's something I want your readers to understand. This music industry is brutal, and very much a business. There's plenty of talented people in this world. And we wonder why so many less talented people make it. It's because somebody handled their business incorrectly. In this business, talent, musicality, and even swag, IS NOT ENOUGH to make it. The ARTIST has to learn the BUSINESS of music.

MzHouse Diva: When did you first full in love with house music?

Josh: When I first heard "Move Your Body" by Marshall Jefferson. And also back in the mid 80's when Tony Humphries rocked the Zanzibar.

MzHouse Diva: How do you tend to write? Where does your inspiration come from?

Josh: My life experiences tend to be my biggest muse. I like to tell a story in my songs. I focus on healing the world lyrically. I always want to be an encouraging voice to hurting people. These days, the world is in pain. So many senseless deaths, and war. Corrupt governments, dysfunctional families and the like are permeating our planet. It's nothing to see a mother cursing at a 2 year old child. And then there is the lover, romantic side of writing that I also enjoy. There seems to be a lack of love, true love in the world. There are way more single people than there are married or committed couples. My thoughts tell me that it's because of the lack of true love or the understanding of it..I listen to a barrage of awesome songwriters that definitely influence my songwriting. There's James Taylor, Stevie Wonder, Sting, and instrumentalist like Pat Metheny, and Robert Glasper that are huge influences on me.

MzHouse Diva: Who were some of your musical and lyrical influences?

Josh: Chaka Khan, Jaco Pastorius, Jay Dilla, Ol' Dirty Bastard, Robert Glasper, Andrae Crouch, Oteil Burbridge, John Coltrane, Donny Hathaway, Pat Metheny, Lionel Loueke, Gretchen Parlato, Minister Thomas Whitfield, Louis Armstrong, Oscar Peterson, James Taylor, Louie Vega, Joaquin "Joe" Claussell, NYC, and many others.

MzHouse Diva: Who are some of the artists in the music industry, would you like to work with in me future if given the opportunity?

Josh: Dwight Trible, Chaka Khan, Lawrence Hobgood, Jazmine Sullivan, Ledisi, Tonex, Flora Purim, Nicole Cabell, Barbara Streisand and Toots Theilemans.

MzHouse Diva: What do you look for when you decide to work with someone?

Josh: Talent that moves my heart, to be able to feel the person in my heart when they perform.

MzHouse Diva: Do you play any instruments?

Josh: I play keys, guitar, bass, drums and percussion, and the mic. :-)

MzHouse Diva: Even though you've had many releases in the

House Music genre, you've worked with a lot of musicians from

other genres of music. How essential is that element to the music you create?

Josh: I like music that has different influences, it taste better. Think of it as food;You can't expect food to taste amazing, when cooking with only one ingredient. Musically, I take from my Brazilian, Latin, African, Hip-Hop, Gospel, and Jazz experiences. It's who I am.

MzHouse Diva: Do you think there are a lot of great musicians being cultivated now?

Josh: Absolutely. They are definitely out there, Jacob Collier comes to mind. He's a 19 year old musical genius. He plays many instruments with the skill of a master. He sings his own arrangements of jazz standards and originals in the style of Take 6, and The Singers Unlimited. That style of harmony is extremely hard for many many singers. The reason why we don't hear of musicians and singers like this is because there is little to no money to be made. So major companies like Sony, and Universal, won't give these people a chance because this is a business. They are in business to make money, but there are plenty of amazing singers and musicians being cultivated.

MzHouse Diva: Do you still get nervous before a performance?

Josh: I sure do. Anxiety attacks happen sometimes, depending on the crowd. If I'm performing in front of a crowd that is familiar with what I do, I'm still nervous, but not as much.

MzHouse Diva: You recently performed in Chicago at The Wonder Bar and how was that experience?

Josh: Whew!!!!!! I did sing. And the people enjoyed it. But the highlight of that night for me was when I DJ'ed. I played music from the 70's through today. I even played a rock record and it worked!!! That was an unforgettable night for me as a DJ.

MzHouse Diva: What draws you to the deeper, soulful side of House? Why has it often been overlooked by mainstream audiences, yet thrives underground and how can that be changed to reach a broader base?

Josh: For me, soulful is the only way I know. I need to feel fed and the only way to feed me is through the element of a humans touch. That could be musically or lyrically. I don't have a problem with computer generated music, but in terms of Soul, there must be a person involved. A computer program doesn't have the ability to touch my soul, or feel my pain. It can't give me hope, like a human can. That's what soul music is. Music that touches or moves the soul. Music one can feel. The reason I think soul music is not thriving is a direct reflection of the synthetic world we're living in. There is a strong demand for plasticity and quick fixes such as microwaved food, cell phones, and such. Book reading is slowly becoming a thing of the past. Libraries have fewer visitors. Musically, there is no difference. Today's generation want to hear music that is generated with sequencers and programs. They tend to sound harder and phonically, high defined. It's like hearing music in 3-D. As opposed to listening to Stevie Wonder play the piano. There is a rush when entering a club that's playing this synthetic sound. The music is loud and fast, and there is lights and action going on. Sometimes, drugs has a hand in the sound of todays club kids. That synthetic sound plus ecstasy go well together. It's an unforgettable experience. And they want more and more of it and less to do with soulful music. R&B is similar. There is more glory in bling than there is in being talented and singing or performing music with meaning. Especially if an entertainer is over 30. The most successful R&B soulful singers with amazing talent are struggling like everybody else. While those with less talent, that sing a more synthetic, sterile sounding music are topping all of the charts. Angela Bofill, The O'Jays, and Curtis Mayfield wouldn't stand a chance of they were to come out with a debut project today. There are a few that actually make it doing soulful music. But my point is that there aren't enough of them. Bottom line is money. There's money in synthetic music.

MzHouse Diva: Out of all your songs, is there any one that sticks out as your favorite?

Josh: Not really. There are some that I adore that haven't been released. But if I had to choose just one, it would be Found Love. It talks about a higher love. Not just a romantic, eros kind of love. It's about more of a godly love. Agape.

MzHouse Diva: Your single "Children of the World” is currently out on Honeycomb Music, how long did it take to write that one? And what is the message that the song is conveying?

Josh: Children Of The World is co-written by myself and Louie Vega. It's the first single on The Elements Of Life album "The Eclipse."It's on Fania Records. It took maybe a week to complete the lyrics. I'm 43 years old. In only 40 years I will be 83. The children today will be our leaders. We will need them to be equipped with the knowledge to run the world. And they can't do it with sagging jeans and being ignorant. I feel that our children, especially in urban communities are going to need a lot of help in learning their role as our future leaders. With parents not parenting, and teachers having sex with them, how can we expect our future to be bright? This song is an effort to inform the children of the world that they are our future.

MzHouse Diva: How did you get into producing?

Josh: Trial and error. As a musician, I would always listen to records and try to pick apart what instruments was used in a song and how they were used. So when I got in the studio to do my own songs, I already had a decent understanding of many instruments and the sounds they're capable of making. Producing music became second nature to me. For me, Quincy Jones is the leader of quality production. Especially in the 80's. He used many different musicians, yet the quality and sound is consistent.

MzHouse Diva: Your single “Your Body” was a huge success that quickly became a club anthem and it also topped the charts .Did you expect the track to receive such critical acclaim?

Josh: Thank you. One never knows what will or won't be a hit. At least I don't. I just do what I feel and whatever happens happens. That's the only way for me. I never do a song with the idea that it's going to be a hit. Nor do I try to make it sound like something else that was a hit.

MzHouse Diva: Tell us about Honeycomb Music. What artists are you currently producing and are excited about?

Josh: I started Honeycomb out of complete frustration. I felt that there were no labels taking chances on soulful music. At least not like I wanted to hear it. I was missing real musicians and songs with intro's, and breaks, and endings. Honeycomb is dedicated to doing music like that. We've got many coals in the fire. Currently, I'm working on a poetry project that will feature some rare groove sounding music and some amazing poets. I have new talent that I'm producing singles on, namely Tracy Brathwaite who wrote her single "Smile". Sheree Hicks has an EP coming out that will feature songs written by her and produced by Sol4orce and myself. Cinnamon Brown is blessing us with a new single "Give Me Your Love."

MzHouse Diva: Now that you have the freedom that comes with having your own label, what kinds of projects would you like to work on?

Josh: I'm open to whatever sounds and feels good. There are no rules or boxes that I live in when it comes to releasing music.

MzHouse Diva: Considering your musical career, I assume, you had some very interesting experiences along the way. Would you be willing to share an unforgettable story that you fondly recall?

Josh: Recently, as part of The Elements Of Life, I was part of a Dance Parade in NYC. It was a major event. And Louie and his staff put the Honeycomb logo on the float as a surprise to me. I felt very emotional at the sight of it. Those acts of kindness and generosity are rare in the music business.

MzHouse Diva: Could you describe how the EOL Project differs from your other work?

Josh: EOL is a melting pot a musicians from Cape Verde, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Brooklyn(Me), and Africa. And I feel that musically, we sound just as diverse. It's something I love. The only difference is that my productions are just me. I sometimes use musicians but they are hired. EOL is a family.

MzHouse Diva: You’ve been in the music business for a while. What lesson do you wish you’d mastered earlier in your career?

Josh: I wish I had been a business person from the start of my career instead of a studio only guy. I wish I'd put as much time in learning to read contracts.

MzHouse Diva: How have you adapted over the years to the way the industry has changed?

Josh: The only major change that really affected me was transitioning from a studio only guy to a Label Owner and business man. The music industry will always be a business like any other business. One must know the business in order to be in it.

MzHouse Diva: How do you feel about House Music becoming more digital? Do you think that hurt or help the house music industry?

Josh: House music becoming digital in terms of online sales is great. However, I think that vinyl, and cds have their place. Part of the reason why sales have dropped is because those that used to buy records don't go online and rebel against the new way of digital sales. They'd rather play vinyl and enjoy music that way. Digital sales have lowered the price on singles, so a toll has been taken in the pocket of house music. Causing vinyl record stores to close. At the same time, digital sales have allowed Honeycomb to reach New Zealand, and Africa with just the touch of a button or a click of the mouse.

MzHouse Diva: As a Christian Artist, who has to live in the "worldly world that is showbiz, how do you balance that with your duties of delivering spiritual gospel through music?

Josh: Christianity is a lifestyle. I embrace that lifestyle wholeheartedly. However, I do music for a living. Not house music, not gospel music, just music. Spiritually I have a duty to tell others about Jesus Christ to the best of my ability. And as a Christian, I must strive to be like Christ. But musically there is no box for me.

MzHouse Diva: How does the gospel/Christian community embrace your success?

Josh: I think that the Christian world is learning the broadness of God. When I was growing up, we didn't have such a broad view and understanding that God wasn't only at our church. Today we are discovering Gospel hardcore rappers and heavy metal gospel. So with that being said, I feel respected and embraced. I certainly won't be singing "Your Body" this Sunday in church, but the people won't judge me as quickly as they once did years ago.

MzHouse Diva: Tell us something we didn’t know about Joshua Milan?

Josh: LOL.. I have a fear of statues, and flying insects. Soul Food, and Sushi are my favorite dishes. I love 1970-75 Cadillacs. And I ride a motorcycle. I cry at movies. I'm a foodie. I enjoy cigars.

MzHouse Diva: So when you finally finish this amazing career, what do want to be remembered for?

Josh: Being a good person. Having wrote songs that helped someone.

MzHouse Diva: What do you see in the future of house music?

Josh: I like the way Mos Def answered this question with regards to Hip Hop. He said "If we're smoked out, Hip Hop is gone be smoked out. If we're doing good, Hip Hop is gone be doing good." House music is going to be doing whatever we, the lovers of house, are doing. And I intend on being extremely successful.

MzHouse Diva: How would you like to see “Honeycomb Music” in a few years from now?

Josh: I'd love to generate enough money to hire a staff of family that understand the vision of Honeycomb which is to sign life changing talent from all over the world and to develop artist and release amazing soulful music, whether it be slow or fast.

MzHouse Diva: Can you tell us about your future plans or Have you any plans (personal or business) that you can share?

Josh: I plan to finish my solo project. It will be a collection of music that will reflect my total musicality. There's a little bit of everything there. I even covered a Beatles tune. I recently completed an instrumental project with a few musician friends of mine. We call ourselves Honeysweet. Look for that on Vega records. I'm producing an album on the iconic and legendary Dawn Tallman. I'm working on an endorsement deal with a guitar company.

MzHouse Diva: I definitely can't wait until your next release. Thanks for your time and it was a great pleasure doing this interview with you.

Josh: This interview has been a real pleasure.. Thank you so very much for considering me for it.

***** For more info on Joshua Milan including new music and performance dates please visit ; http://HoneycombMusicStore.com

Song of the Day...Joe Claussell - Je Ka Jo (Crazy Vocal)

Dee Jay Alicia/Philly Nites Radio 6-4-13

https://soundcloud.com/dj-alicia/dja-philly-nites-radio-06-04

Dj Stevie B/Philly Nites radio Vol. 5

https://soundcloud.com/dj-stevie-b/philly-nites-radio-vol-5

Sounds of Soul - Miami 2013 Mix

https://soundcloud.com/sos-remix/sounds-of-soul-miami-2013-mix

SamGoody's 1st Mix

https://soundcloud.com/dj-jizz/samgoodys-1st-mix

DSoH #372 w/Lars Behrenroth (Part2) - guestmix by FABIO GENITO

https://soundcloud.com/fabiogenito/dsoh-372-w-lars-behrenroth

Gary Cummings(Organik Soul)-From The Depths Of My Soul Vol. 55

https://soundcloud.com/gary-cummings/from-the-depths-of-my-soul-vol?utm_source=soundcloud&utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=facebook

Tribe Records #MIXMONDAY v4.0 | Renato Xtrova Edition

http://soundcloud.com/triberecords/renato-xtrova-1h-mix-12-may?utm_campaign=timeline&utm_content=http%3A%2F%2Fsoundcloud.com%2Ftriberecords%2Frenato-xtrova-1h-mix-12-may&utm_medium=facebook&utm_source=soundcloud

K' Alexi Shelby= K Klassik Radio Set 1 Of 2013

http://soundcloud.com/mr-k-alexi/k-alexi-shelby-k-klassik-radio

"GOTTA HAVE HOUSE FRIDAYS (MARCH EDITION)" - STEVE MIGGEDY MAESTRO

DJ DEL B. - DEEP house GROOVES VOL.1

https://soundcloud.com/del-b/deep-g-vol-1

The Natural Essence House Show EP #80 - Kev Kruz (New York)

https://soundcloud.com/natural_essence/the-natural-essence-house-8

Song of the Day...Henrik Schwarz & Kuniyuki - Once Again (Henrik Schwarz Version)

SOLE channel Cafe Guest Mix - June 2013 - Fabio Genito

https://soundcloud.com/solechannelmusic/sole-channel-cafe-guest-mix?utm_source=soundcloud&utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=facebook

David Vasquez(Supa Dave)/Principles of Pleasure 5/22

Principles of Pleasure 5/22

Song of the Day...Stop Bajon by tullio de piscopo

Frequencies of Offering # 800 5/3/2013 Mixed by Yves'Sifa & Ivan Diaz

http://www.mixcloud.com/FrequenciesofOffering/foo80-03052013-mixed-by-yvessifa-ivan-diaz/

Derrick Brown/ Presents The Mix of May

http://www.mixcloud.com/djderrickbrown/derrick-brown-presentsthe-mix-of-may/

Song of the Day.....Timmy Regisford Drum Song

Sifiso Simelane/Soulful House Mix (February 2013)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pUJbWNVFuIQ

Soulful Deep Acid Jazz House Music Lounge DJ Mix by JaBig [DEEP & DOPE 101]

Exclusive Interview

Monique Bingham
(Singer, Songwriter, Producer and Label Owner)

Monique Bingham, has been responsible for some of the most poignant, soulful jazz infused house music of the past 17 years. Her career began with the acid jazz band Abstract Truth in 1995 at Francois K‘s legendary Axis studios. The first single, “Get Another Plan” received international critical acclaim and was picked up by Gilles Peterson for his UK imprint, Talkin Loud in ‘96. The follow up single “We Had a Thing”, penned and performed by Monique is an indisputable soulful house classic due in large part to Matthias “Matty” Heilbronn’s infectious house remix.

Once injected into the veins of the underground, Ms. Bingham’s penchant for painstakingly crafted lyrics put her in a class by herself. In addition to her work with Abstract Truth she went on to solo performances with Blue Six (“Pure“/NakedMusicUS) Sir Piers (“Don’t You Love Me“/CuriousUK), Studio Apartment (“Flight“/KingstreetsoundsUS), Liquid People (“Glance Look Stare“/MN2SUK).
She has also worked with some of the house scene’s most respected dj/producers: Quentin Harris (“Poor People“/DefectedUK), Kerri Chandler (“In the Morning“/BiggasoundsUS), and Ralf Gum (Kissing Strangers/GOGO) named Traxsource’s #1 most downloaded song of 2008. Her writing also brought her to the attention of legendary dj/producer Jellybean Benitez who signed her to his NYC publishing house in ’08. In 2009 and 2010 she released songs with Karizma and Osunlade (“Good Morning“/R2US) as well as Phil Asher and Bah Samba (“Run“/Symple SoulUS).
In 2011, Monique completed her first self-produced single released on her own imprint Biggasounds! “You.Me.World“ was received with glowing reviews and championed by veteran taste makers Danny Krivit, DJ Spinna and Black Coffee worldwide.
2011 also brought Monique and her live band “The Bigga Sextet” to her many fans in South Africa for the first time. She was featured at the 12th annual Capetown International Jazz Festival in Capetown, sharing a bill with jazz heroes Hugh Masakela, Esperanza Spalding as well as soul legends Earth Wind and Fire! Subsequent dates at the South African Music Conference in Durban and performances in Johannesburg have reconfirmed Monique as one of South Africa’s most loved house artists. And if anyone had doubted Ms. Bingham’s consistency, the 2012 collaboration with Ralf Gum “Take Me To My Love“ has solidified her standing as one of the most eloquent and enduring artists the NYC underground has produced in the last 30 years.

MzHouse Diva : We know your career first kicked off with Abstract Truth with ‘We Had A Thing’ and ‘Get Another Plan’ but how did you get started with Abstract Truth?

Monique : Just a young hungry chick willing to do anything to get something going. I was going out in NY a lot to see local bands in the early 90s. Groove Collective was one I used to check out regularly. They were opening for the GOD that is Maceo Parker at Irving Plaza. Nappy G played in GC band and I just sort of approached and said I can sing! And he was like "prove it!" I sang right there on Broadway now that I think about it. And he called me in for a session with Abstract Truth and that was it. Asked me to front the band on the spot.

MzHouse Diva : What happened to Abstract Truth and is there any plans in the future for any collaborations?

Monique : The band leader, Dana kind of took a break to focus on raising his son and all of us just kept playing out all over the world. I mean these guys played with Sun Ra, Miles Davis, Chaka Khan, Lester Bowie. They just kept playing. Dana was in the band Konk in the 80's and they just did a reunion gig in NY recently so...We'll see what develops, I'm still in contact with all of them and the kid just left for college lol so...

MzHouse Diva : Out of all your songs, is there any one that sticks out as your favorite?

Monique : Noooo. That's like picking a favorite kid or something lol. I do have moments when something will happen and I'll remember a lyric I wrote that nails whatever I am thinking at that moment exactly. But no one fave.

MzHouse Diva : Your single "Take me to my Love" is currently out on GOGO Records on the album “Never Leaves You”, how long did it take to write that one?

Monique : A good year. They almost always take a long time for me. I don't rush that process ever. I have to send it out when it's right, and not a moment sooner.

MzHouse Diva : How did the relationship between you and Ralf Gum start up?

Monique : It's kind of a boring start to a very inspiring creative relationship. He just found me somehow. Had heard my other stuff proposed a track and after a year it became Kissing Strangers. I take forever to conceptualize a tune. But then I end up recording it in one day.

MzHouse Diva: How do you tend to write? Where does your inspiration come from?

Monique : Everywhere n anywhere. Sometimes it's something I see or hear someone do, and I'll come up with a line, and then find a melody for it or vice versa. The subway is great for that. I could never live in a city with no underground or fully functioning mass transit system. I hear so much crazy $hit on the subway.

MzHouse Diva : Who were some of your musical and lyrical influences?

Monique : Ella Fitzgerald, Maceo Parker, Muddy Waters, Cole Porter, Mingus, Aretha, Monk, Patrice Rushen, old Kool n The Gang, Stevie, Carly Simon, Sly Stone, Caron wheeler, Bill Withers, a million people. That's just quick off the top of my head. Ask me tomorrow you'll get another list.

MzHouse Diva : Do you play any instruments?

Monique Bingham : Not well enough to say yes, so no. I just mess around when I write songs on bass n keys. I produce as well.

MzHouse Diva : Do you still get nervous before a performance?

Monique : Sometimes yes, but usually I 'm just hoping everything works and I can hear myself. You'd be amazed at how difficult it can be to hear what's going on in a club sound wise from a stage. Sometimes it's like performing with your hands over your ears.

MzHouse Diva : Did you go to the WMC in Miami this year? If so, did you have any scheduled performances?

Monique : I went and it was a blast! First time I've been in a 4 years. Did a Funkbox NYC party with Tony Touch n Julius the Mad Thinker. Also the South African Miami Invasion Party with my boys Fresh and Euphonik out of Johannesburg. I was fighting on the side of the motherland lol. Miami surrendered.

MzHouse Diva : Considering your musical career, I assume, you had some very interesting experiences along the way. Would you be willing to share an unforgettable story that you fondly recall?

Monique : I have to say nothing really interview worthy lol. I have ended up in some very unforgettable places with very unforgettable people for sure. One of the best things about this business is it takes you all over the world. I always wanted to travel when I was younger so I love that, but no one real juicy story, that I'd tell you anyway.

MzHouse Diva: Even though you've had many releases in the House Music genre you've worked with a lot of musicians who have a solid base in Jazz. How essential is that element to the music you create?

Monique : It taught me how to sing. The vocalists I found the most interesting were jazz vocalists. And horns are just voices with no words. Jazz vocalists also seemed to be the most cerebral. Opera is hard but there's no improvisation. Gospel is mind blowing but it prides itself in how visceral it is. But jazz is heady. I just thought of all the things. I could be I wanted to be a kind of heady vocalist.

MzHouse Diva : Now that you have the freedom that comes with having your own label, what kinds of projects would you like to work on?

Monique : My album, which is starting to look like it might be a double disc. I can't realistically think beyond that right now.

MzHouse Diva : Monique, you recently performed in South Africa; what did you learn about the South African Music scene from that experience?

Monique : It is alive and thriving and diverse, and a whole new crop of artists are really ready to show the world what's going on there. I performed at the 12th annual Metro FM awards in Durban in February and I saw exactly what's happening now in the country. In all genres, not just house. I think the global attention is building. But I hope it doesn't corrupt the scene. They must keep the radio in the hands of the DJs and NOT follow the US model of payola and corporate conglomerate hoarding bull$hit or it's a wrap.

MzHouse Diva : How would you describe your writing style to people?

Monique : Hmmmmm. I suppose I try not to use ideas that are too trite although I do all the time. I tell stories a lot, I always attempt to be clever lol. But really the words have to enhance the melody which is the really important part. Music doesn't need words, so if they're there they have to improve the experience. As long as it's not boring you're good. But if your melody sucks who gives a $hit what your saying anyway.

MzHouse Diva: Who are some of the artists in the music industry, would you like to work with in me future if given the opportunity?

Monique : A bunch, but I won't say cause I've done that before and I think I'm jinxing myself.

MzHouse Diva : When you aren’t busy performing and writing; what do you like to do in your free time?

Monique : What's free time lol.

MzHouse Diva : If you could change one thing about the music industry, what would it be?

Monique : Too much money corrupts everything. The payola system in radio and allowing soft porn in music. People started watching and stopped listening. The success of Madonna set female musicians back 50 years.

MzHouse Diva: What was the best advice that was given to you?

Monique : Trust your instincts. If it seems like bull$hit it is.

MzHouse Diva: Can you tell us about your future plans or Have you any plans (personal or business) that you can share with goals?

Monique : I want this album to be a masterpiece. A wall of songs made of pure solid stone. I want people to spend months getting into it, years even. I want an album that lasts and lives and breathes forever, that's my main goal now. That's all I'm really concerned with currently.

MzHouse Diva: I definitely can't wait until your next release. Thanks for your time and it was a great pleasure doing this interview with you.

*Monique will be performing at the Southport Weekender 49 in the UK next month . She will also be part of the line up for the Ubiquity Boat ride in July. Both these events are listed on her FB page and website .

***** For more info on Monique Bingham including performance dates please visit ; www.moniquebingham.com