Roots & Rhythm: Parliament - "Getting To Know You"

Hands down Parliament is one of my favorite things. Ever. In life. Top 10 for sure.

Parliament: Anything goes. Everything goes.

I love the freedom. The music, the clothing choices and their live performances were always full of the unexpected. They came along during a time where there were a few others in this space, but George Clinton's ability to recreate the band but maintain the sound has made him infamous.

Roots & Rhythm: Wondaland Records - "Hell You Talmbout"

Janelle Monae and Wondaland released a collective effort this week after announcing their upcoming project recently. After standing and speaking in Philadelphia, "Hell You Talmbout" was released this week by Wondaland Records. It is a drum call chanting the names of many who have lost their lives in our communities in recent and distant past.

Roman GianArthur, Alex Belle and Isis Valentino (St. Beauty), Jidenna, Janelle Monae, Nate Wonder and Chuck Lightening of Deep Cotton.

Roots & Rhythm: Snoop Dogg f. Stevie Wonder and Pharrell Williams - "California Roll"

In my house, we listen to music the way most people watch television. SWAN is constantly playing new music and I can tell when something is really good. After a few weeks, I find myself singing the songs or seeking them out on Spotify. It is obvious when something new has been filed into my musical memory.

That is exactly what happened when he introduced me to BUSH, the latest from Snoop Dogg produced by Pharrell. SWAN calls the sound "disco funk", in which Pharrell gave Snoop track after track that worked well with his flow. One of the things I love most about the project is the number of classic artists that appear on the album. You get energy from T.I., Kenrick Lamar, Stevie Wonder, Gwen Stefani, Rick Ross, Justin Timberlake and of course, Uncle Charlie Wilson. Everyone plays their part well to create Snoop's 13th album.

Jusin Timberlake, Charlie Wilson, Snoop Dogg and Pharrell Williams at the BET Awards.

Roots & Rhythm: Jay Z featuring Pharrell - "Excuse Me Miss"

This week we continue our look at some of Pharrell's best work by taking a look at his producer/feature role. Pharrell is one of few who work well on both sides of the microphone. He can always deliver vocals that work well with the sound he's created.

Pharrell and Jay Z perform at Coachella.

There are times when an artist and producer work so well together, you expect nothing be good things from them. For me, Pharrell has that connection with Jay Z when he is in his producer role. Jay Z inspires many producers in this way, but his work with Pharrell are some of our favorites here at Natural in Nashville.

Naomi Campbell and Jay Z from "Change Clothes" via Style.MTV.com

I shared my love for Naomi Campbell and "Change Clothes" by Jay Z last year and it is still one of our favorites flashbacks. Another favorite from Jay Z and Pharrell would definitely have to be "So Ambitious". While I can't say I agree with all of the lyrics, I do understand completely the point Jay Z is making with each verse. I'm sure we can all relate if we move past any offensive lyrics.

Jay Z, Beyonce and Pharrell via xxlmag.com. From "Excuse Me Miss" to Mrs. Carter.

However, I think one of the most memorable collaborations between the two will always be "Excuse Me Miss". For many, it was the first time they say Jay Z in a different, more mature light. I'm actually a fan of the video solely because of the elevator scene. I think it is a beautiful representation of "love at first sight" from an artistic standpoint. And that dress!

Featuring the work of Pharrell is a bit of a different vibe, but that also speaks to the point. While I haven't found very many natural styles to point out, I appreciate Pharrell's authenticity. From Skateboard P to music and movie producer, being true to himself is the fuel for his success. It is definitely a lesson we can all be reminded of from time to time.

Roots & Rhythm: Puff Daddy and The Family featuring Pharrell - "Finna Get Loose"

For the most part, it seems as if Pharrell can do no wrong. He refuses to age, he is still producing hot music and now he has moved to producing movies as well. Being comfortable on both sides of the microphone definitely works to his advantage and his creativity and authenticity should translate to the big screen well.

Pharrell Williams

Pharrell is one of those producers that will catch you off guard. You'll fall in love with a song only to find out later that he had his hand in it. With that said, he has still managed to develop his own unique sound, The Neptunes Sound, that is easily recognized in some of his work.

Puffy + Pharrell performing at the 2015 BET Awards via neptunes.org.

With Pharrell's track record it is no wonder Puffy called on him when he was ready to reintroduce Puff Daddy and The Family. Celebrating 20 years of Bad Boy Records, Puffy has vowed to make everyone dance again. Although his 2015 BET performance will always be known for "the fall", Puffy also produced a show that reminds you exactly why Bad Boy is still around.

From Mase to 112, Lil' Kim and Faith, this show was everything we loved about the 90s. It was evident in the crowd as you saw artists, athletes and actors all dancing and singing along to songs we all know and love. Sitting aside the fall, watch the performance again (or for the first time, like me) and remember why you love the 90s.

The end of the show featured "Finna Get Loose" featuring Pharrell. How did they do? Does this track make you want to dance? You can listen the the audio here. Please note there are explicit lyrics. You can also see the trailer for DOPE, where Pharrell Williams serves as executive producer here. For more dance videos check out #FinnaGetLoose on your favorite social media site.

Pharrell with the cast of DOPE featured in Billboard Magazine.

Roots & Rhythm: Busta Rhymes ft Janet Jackson - 'What's it Gonna Be'

 

Just last week Janet Jackson surprised her fans with an announcement of a new tour and new music! This week, she gave a sneakpeek of the first track from her upcoming album, "No Sleep". All this Janet Jackson awesomeness had me thinking about one of my favorite songs featuring Janet, "What's it Gonna Be" by Busta Rhymes.

Listen, Janet and Busta made the future look so sexy with this avant garde video. Busta Rhymes' locs looked so cool! Janet was dominatrix realness. All together, they couple had people thinking that Busta and Janet were gonna be a thing.

But this is a hair blog, so lets talk about it. Janet has always been on front of line when it comes to hair. The box braids everyone loves became more famous when Janet wore them in the Poetic Justice movie. More than anything, Janet is always know for a great wet & wavy look. (see below)

It seems as though, Janet's natural hair falls on the curly/wavy 2b/3a texture. She's always good to find hair that mixes well with her natural texture. Making her the best candidate for always looking the most fly. No matter her age, no matter how long she stays away from the spotlight, Janet is an ICON who always mixes style, sex appeal, and genuine amazing-ness.

So, let's take a blast from the past. Watch Janet and Busta's video below. Hopefully, her next collaborations are just as fly!

Roots & Rhythm: "Heal The World" - Michael Jackson

Image via Octavia Raheem

There are some days where words seem to get in the way. These are the times when my heart opens up and I feel nothing love and compassion for the world. I focus on healing, truth and the progression of humanity. I acknowledge what is real while seeing the reality we desire.

ROOT & RHYTHM: Wale - 'Matrimony'

If there's a question of my heart, you've got it It don't belong to anyone but you. If there's a question of my love, you've got it Baby don't worry, I've got plans for you . . .

This week, Wale, released the visuals for his new song, Matrimony featuring Usher. The video shows Wale and his love interest preparing for a gorgeous wedding. The ending will have you debating, for real. But the gorgeous-ness of this video is Wale's locs that are styled to PERFECTION!

Wale is one of the rappers who's locs always look really good. He's gone through the awkward length and growth stage and now he's at the point where his hair can be styled. I like that Wale allows his stylist to go utside the box with his loc looks. Toward the end of the video, you'll see that Wale's hair is arranged in an intricate updo that represents a sleek pompadour. Very fly!

ROOTS & RHYTHM: Donna Summer - "Love to Love You"

If you vibe with me on Friday, you probably know that I love to take a trip back to the 70s and 80s from time to time.

The Original Bad Girl, Donna Summer.

I think that time period influenced style, art and music in a way that is still evident today.  One of my favorites to check out is Donna Summer. A beautiful person with a beautiful voice, Donna Summers always seems to bring just enough extra to make you love her.

ROOTS & RHYTHM: Kiya Lacey - "I Know" featuring Petty

Summer is coming and Music City will come alive.  Concert series are on their way, the Bonnaroo line up has been announced and our favorite local artists are tuning up to bring us their best.

Kiya Lacey

Kiya Lacey is one local artist I hope to see soon. At 19, her voice has elements of jazz, R&B, and hip hop that can remind you of a time before she was even born.  As a singer/songwriter, Kiya delivers love and joy in the same way she delivers the harsh realities of society: with passion and depth.

ROOTS & RHYTHM: Chaka Khan - "I'm Every Woman"

One thing I have come to realize that embracing natural hair really is a movement.  It is a return. In the Akan language the word "Sankofa" means "to go back and get it", which is what many of us have chosen to do.  While the concept and care for our natural hair texture is new to us, we have quickly built our knowledge base through our online communities.

Pam Grier (Actress)

ROOTS & RHYTHM: Mary J. Blige - "Just Fine"

It is one of the most cherished times of the year: Mother's Day Weekend. Over the years, Mom's role changes in our life yet somehow remains the same.  It doesn't matter if its natural or if you have to work at it, but one day you become friends.  And you learn to appreciate Mom for all new reasons.

Happy Mother's Day, Momma FabGlance!

ROOTS & RHYTHM: Bill Withers - "Lovely Day"

This week has been heavy.

Nothing makes us feel lighter the way music can.  Except beautiful children.  And that is what this Friday's Roots & Rhythm is all about.

ROOTS & RHYTHM: Angie Stone - "Brotha"

What started out as admiration for Angie Stone's ability to carry an afro with grace and ease quickly returned to my appreciation for her work.

REGAL: Angie Stone.

When Mahogany Soul first dropped, I was impressed with "I Don't Miss You Anymore" because of her use of the sample from the O'Jay's.  She made it her own in a way that allowed me to enjoy both songs.  That doesn't happen often for me.

ROOTS & RHYTHM: Janelle Monae - "Yoga"

Last week when we checked out "Classic Man" from Jidenna, I knew Janelle Monae was bringing a new single, but I had no idea it would drop so fast!

There was a collective "Yessssssssss!" from yogis across the world earlier this week when "Yoga" started making its way across the internet.  As a Kemetic Yoga™ instructor and practitioner, I definitely appreciate Janelle Monae putting the spotlight on yoga.  While there is the thought that yoga has become commercial and could potentially loose its true essence, I often wonder who those people practice with.

ROOTS & RHYTHM: Jidenna Featuring Roman GianArthur

The Queen of Cool, Janelle Monae, is back and she's brought some friends along for the ride.

Monae is rebooting her label Wondaland and our first taste is from Jidenna, a Nigerian-American artist whose look lives up to the single title: "Classic Man".  Sporting a pompadour and a suited to match, Jidenna's look is culturally classic.

Roman GianArthur, Alex Belle and Isis Valentino (St. Beauty), Jidenna, Janelle Monae, Nate Wonder and Chuck Lightening of Deep Cotton.

ROOTS & RHYTHM: Jill Scott - "You Don't Know"

Miss Jill Scott gave us a new music video this week and it is perfect for a rainy Friday morning.

Jill reached down deep for this one from the beginning.  Her vibe and the music on "You Don't Know" is truly a soulful moment.  She went into that space where Aretha lives.  And she brought the look to match.  From the drink to the hair and make up, Jill is delivers her new single as only she can. Part songstress, part actress, but still somehow all Jill, this video feels part of a larger story.

Freedom and Afro perfection from Jill Scott

ROOTS & RHYTHM: Eric Roberson - "I'm Not Trying To Keep Score No More"

There's more snow on the ground, which means another mental getaway is in order.

Eric Roberson takes us to the beach this week with "I'm Not Trying To Keep Score No More" from The Box. And the video is like the Super Bowl of Soul.

Eric Robeson with the classic side part.

ROOTS & RHYTHM: Lauryn Hill - "Everything is Everything"

This week's rhythm is tuned to the vibe of Ms. Zendaya Coleman.  Let's show some love for beautiful locs!

Loc Love: Adding texture for the win.

She handled a situation many deal with often in a graceful, well-thought out manner.  In front of the world. Bravo.

ROOTS & RHYTHM: Lenny Kravtiz - "I Belong To You"

It is always nice when some artists make their way back into your playlist to remind you why you love them.

When Lenny Kravitz shared this video of his impromptu session with a high school band, it triggered musical memories of all the good music he's created.  When I first heard, "It Ain't Over Till Its Over", I knew I would always be a fan of his work.  He's proven me right.

Lenny with Locs.

I also remember the initial "shock" when he cut his locs.  Although I've come to appreciate this version of him, he had a pretty nice phase with his locs.  I like them more now than I did then.  I guess I can understand and respect the process more at this point.