Capital Hip Hop Soul: Wes Felton

Cutting-edge and eclectic, DC-based singer Wes Felton is always bringing something new to the music game. His renowned flavor of innovation and unbridled honesty lead many music listeners to either love or hate him, but the love definitely outweighs the latter. Read more about this innovative artist in a Q & A on SoulTrain.com HERE.

Capital Hip Hop Soul: Akua Allrich

DC-based vocalist Akua Allrich fuses musical genres to create music that is not easily categorized as jazz, blues, or R&B. Quickly garnering attention on adult contemporary radio stations for her first CD A Peace of Mine (2010) and the single “Hard to Get”, Akua (pronounced Ah-kwee-ah) is moving forward with redefining what soul music is in America.

“My sound is a fusion of styles with its base in jazz, blues, soul and African rhythm,” she says. “I want my music to reflect all of my experiences as an African born in America.”

Read her full interview on SoulTrain.com HERE.

Capital Hip Hop Soul: Kyonte'

Soul-singer Kyonte, based in the Washington, DC area, is primed for fame. Already touring regularly as a support vocalist for singer Raheem Devaughn, Kyonte has been amassing a following for his brand of contemporary soul that stays true to its R & B roots. But, Kyonte, is a multi-layered artist who has not only garnered attention as the show’s main attraction, but as a budding producer as well. Last year, he earned a GRAMMY nomination for his production of Devaughn’s popular anthem “Woman” and he continues to win awards locally in his hometown for his work in front of and behind the microphone. I caught up with Kyonte' while on assignment for SoulTrain.com. Check out an excerpt below from the Q & A and visit the SoulTrain.com site HERE for the full interview.

SoulTrain.com: People may not realize it, but, in addition to touring with him, you co-produced Raheem Devaughn's hit "Woman" which was nominated for a Grammy. Tell us a little about your role as a producer and some other artists you've worked with.

Kyonte: As a producer, I mainly feel that its my job to push everyone around me to the limit and beyond. Whether it’s musically or personally, I enjoy working with people that give me that energy in return.

SoulTrain.com: You are a DC-based artist, garnering a lot of attention locally as a singer and producer, but you've done a lot nationally and internationally as well. You seem to have passed the point of being an emerging artist and have really created a presence for yourself. What are some next steps you think you want to take as your career blossoms?

Kyonte: As things develop, I'm hungry to deliver great music and be the total package. For the last 6months, I've been working on developing my character and being more disciplined. I've learned over the years that your talent and ability can take you many places but its your character that will sustain you and allow you to grow and evolve into the next stages of your life and career.

SoulTrain.com: Your debut CD What's That Sound has been generating buzz, with some calling you the next big thing to come out of DC following the very-popular Raheem Devaughn. Tell us about some of the response you've been getting to your CD and a little bit about the theme of your CD.

Kyonte: First off, the theme is 831-- 8letters 3words 1meaning. It means I LOVE YOU and the EP itself deals with not just relationship type love but more so a love of living and the things that come along with it. I've received an amazing response from the CD...especially in the UK and Japan. They love me and I love them right back. Here in the states, people listen and they often ask "why aren't you signed?" I love the people so much. They give me perspective.

Read the rest of the Q & A HERE

-Khadijah "Moon" Ali-Coleman

Capital Hip Hop Soul: Hip-Hop's Jade Fox (@JadeFox410)

Jade Fox has heard it all before. She knows she doesn't look like a hip-hop artist. But, that's all good in her book. Learn about this local hip-hop lyricist who talked with us for a few to give us the dish on why she is an artist, what she would do if she couldn't make music and something that few people know about her.

Jade is one of the many artists we feature in our Capital Hip Hop Soul series, inspired by our annual Capital Hip Hop Soul Festival that returns in 2012.

Liberated Muse: You have quite a following in the DMV. Tell us why you think people connect to your music and what sets you apart from those who might perform within your genre.

Jade Fox: The obvious answer to what tends to set me apart from other performers in hip hop is that I'm a female mc that is a true lyricist and my look which is of African American and Korean decent which isn't common in the genre.  I constantly get the whole, "you don't look like a rapper thing" but it works in my favor in that it makes my face memorable and stand out from the pack.  One of the best things I love is that the music itself is very much received as it's own sound. Many listener's initial reactions are that it's refreshing and a breath of fresh air.  Also, the live show with my band is a highly energetic and entertaining experience.  The goal is to bring a true concert experience for a local, independent show price.       


I definitely feel people are able to connect with the music because it literally is me putting my thoughts, emotions, confessions, and life on the track.  I know I prefer hearing about something I can personally relate to, rather than money, cars, etc. I don't have. The truth is the truth, you can try and ignore it, but it can't be denied. 

Liberated Muse: What have been some of the challenges and highlights of being an independent artist?

Jade Fox: One extreme challenge is the money factor. There is no record company putting up funds for studio time, for packaging, promotions and marketing, etc.  It's a lot of out of pocket expense just to get a product out there.  If you need instant gratification than you will not survive as an independent artist.

Faith is personally my best friend in pursuing music as a career. Being an independent female artist presents another additional challenge.  I think a lot of times a female doesn't get as much respect or is taken seriously in a business sense.  I'm definitely not a mogul or anything like that (yet) but I do take pride in handling my business and I think other artists have taken notice to it.  When you're an independent artist you have to wear all hats and really have the mind frame that it won't get done if you don't do it yourself.  In my opinion, the greatest joy of being an independent artist is having full creative control over the music.  I don't have to worry about someone telling me to change anything in my songs or what type of songs I should be trying to make. The music is passionate, uncontrolled, and a direct reflection of me, not a product created to cater to certain demographics or sound like something else. 

Liberated Muse: If you couldn't perform tomorrow and you had to change careers, what would you turn your efforts toward?

Jade Fox: I would definitely make an effort to make it as a writer.  I love working with singers and hearing them transform my words and melodies into something beyond my vision so I would pursue being a song writer for others or maybe even writing some novels. I have too much imagination in my head to not continue doing something creatively.   

Liberated Muse: Name three artists you would love to work with and tell us why.

Jade Fox: First I have to say I love working with Delano Dutch, Nic Richards, H.I. and Billy Dangerous.  Those are my band members and I feel like we have something special in the works and that our potential as a unit will soon be realized.  I also have a deep appreciation for all the producers I work with. 

As far as artists that are known to the mass public, I have always wanted to work with Lauryn Hill.  I feel there's still a creative genius there, but the industry has just pushed her the wrong way.  I would love to try my hand on a Kanye West track, and would make it a mission to kill the beat.  I would also love to work with Sade.  I love her whole vibe and I think we would compliment each other on a track.  Something mellow and sensual, I'm already starting to hear something in my head just thinking about it.

Liberated Muse: How do you think music can change the world for the better?

Jade Fox: Music has such a powerful influence on people but the question is what type of influence is it choosing to project. Music can be soothing to the soul, and also empowering for the human spirit.  It can make someone momentarily dance their pain away or give them reason to exhale when life is suffocating them.  So music can change the world for the better just by allowing people to relate to whatever is necessary at that given time for that given song they choose to listen to. Music is also a great vehicle to reach the youth, it's just too bad they are sometimes exposed to and take in the wrong messages. 

Liberated Muse: Tell us something that probably few people know about you.

Jade Fox: I think you can listen to my lyrics and tell that I'm a pretty intense writer. It's definitely a necessary release that I believe keeps me sane.  When I was around twelve I stopped writing for years.  I had a book of poetry that was found and as a result of it, I was sent to a psychologist.  I only had one visit with her and she thought I was okay and simply stated I was a gifted writer who found the right outlet.  However, at that point I then associated writing as something that was bad because I got forced to get my head checked out.  I think it was like 4 years I refused to write anything outside of papers for school.  But as God would have it, I found the courage and my way back to embracing what I believe is a gift that was given to me.  .   


The latest news, music, and information on Jade Fox can be found at www.jadefoxmusic.com
www.cdbaby.com/jadefox
www.itunes.com/jadefox
www.youtube.com/jadefox410
www.facebook.com/jadefox410

-Khadijah Z. Ali-Coleman

Capital Hip Hop Soul: Teisha Marie (@teishamarie) is The Girl From Nowhere

Teisha Marie is one of our absolute favorite artists at Liberated Muse. She first appeared in our 2009 book tour show at the Artomatic before headlining as a featured act at our 2nd Annual Capital Hip Hop Soul Fest later that year. Her voice is pure beauty and we were thankful to have her as one of our original cast members to debut our first Liberated Muse Production of the play "Running: AMOK" in the 2010 Capital Fringe Fest. 

That's right. She acts. She sings. She writes. She's a multi-instrumentalist. The list seems to go on and on. Before even reaching 30, Teisha Marie has garnered a strong following with her debut LP Addicted to Life and has shared the stage with a whole host of phenomenal neo-soul acts, including the likes of Carmen Rodgers, Deborah Bond, Angela Johnson, and more.

This year, Teisha (pronounced Tea-e-sha) promises to drop new music and tells us what she has in store for us sound-wise. Here's a taste of the interview with her that will be published in its entirety on SoulTrain.com later this month.

LiberatedMuse: Teisha, how would you describe your music to those who are reading about you for the first time?

Teisha Marie: I would say it’s like tasting candy for the first time. You know, you eat a piece of candy, you may or may not like it but there is some part of it you like, whether you like the whole part or not. It’s an experience that you just have to sit down and listen to. A lot of people  have said it’s a good album to listen to when cleaning the house (laughs)

LiberatedMuse:  Tell us more about your new project you're working on.

Teisha Marie: This album is for the person who likes to put their iPod on shuffle. It’s not necessary a different genre of music, but my delivery will be different. The album is called The Girl From Nowhere, based on my experience as an Air Force brat. People always ask “where are you from” and “what do you do” and I never felt like I was from anywhere. I guess I identify with the South the most.   It’s from feeling like the outsider a lot of time—alienation and the strength you find in being different and how in your difference you aren’t alone. It’s for people who like quirky and different styles. The topics are different on this one, but my fans will like it.

LiberatedMuse: Sounds out-of-the-box. As an indie artist, who have been some of your idols and role models in the industry?

Teisha Marie: (laughs) Hmmm. People who have been doing this for a long time—people like Stevie Wonder, Anita Baker—people who just made their music and didn’t have to explain themselves. People who did it because they need to release emotions. I really like what Janelle Monae is doing. I got nervous when she signed with Bad Boy but she’s really retained her sense of self. Of course, Eric Roberson—he’s like the champion of indie artists. He shows it’s possible to be indie and maintain your independence and be successful and not sell out who you are.

LiberatedMuse:  You are a gifted songwriter who captures life's dialogue in prose through song. What inspires you to write? Will this new album reflect something new?

Teisha Marie: I could be walking in the grocery store and hear a mom talking to her daughter and that could inspire a song. Sometimes it just comes from TV, sometimes its just life. I wrote a song on Addicted to Life called “Inner Truth” about a guy battling with his sexuality and another verse about a girl not feeling love that was from my own life so it come s from wherever  I am in the moment. “King of Negativity” has come out of being angry and another song  coming up on the new album called “Walk Your Own Road” about an ex- boyfriend who would just call around the same time each month until I had to just tell him to step-off (laughs).

LiberatedMuse: What are your thoughts about how music can impact the world today?

Teisha Marie: I think that music is a great unifier. For the people who are protesting all around the world, I know that there is some song that is propelling them forward. There is so much negative music out that I think that a little more positive music put in the world can change the world for the better. 

LiberatedMuse: What message do you want to send to your fans who may want to follow in your footsteps?

Teisha Marie: I would say “Do Not Give Up”. That’s number one. Number two would be “Stay Open”. Opportunities can come from anywhere. For the two years I’ve been doing this, I’ve been meeting some interesting people from all over the world. I’m appreciative of that. I can not stress this enough—“Do not give up”. 

LiberatedMuse: Is there anything you would like the readers to know about you?

Teisha Marie: I’m a very genuine person who sometimes wears my heart on my sleeve and I’m very passionate about things. So, if you follow me on twitter and I’m throwing out random thoughts and stuff, be sure to answer back. 

-Khadijah Z. Ali-Coleman

Be sure to stay tuned  for the full interview with Teisha Marie on SoulTrain.com later this month. Read more articles on music talent here.

Haiti Benefit Brings Out the Best

(In photo: Liberated Muse's Moon with Bangladesh from the Bangladesh Project)

Friday's benefit concert "To Haiti, With Love" was a great success as folks attended to hear the soulful sounds of Liberated Muse artists Anonamas ft/ the Bangladesh Project, Dee Dee Kirby, Teisha Marie, Quineice & Gary Young, and the lyricism of Enoch 7th Prophet and Head-Roc.
About $300 was raised in donations in addition to canned goods donated for Haiti relief.

(In Photo: Dee Dee Kirby performs Erykah Badu and Jill Scott covers in addition to some original tunes)

(In photo: Enoch 7th Prophet shares his "overstanding" as he demonstrates skills on the drums at one point during his performance. His performance was high energy and deep)

(In photo: Anonamas with the Bangladesh Project closed the show with some fierce instrumentation and tight lyrics)

(In photo: The artist Choke painted this beautiful portrait during the show and sold many of her art collectibles.)

Artists That May Be New To You

There seems to be tons of new music being dropped by artists we know and love, including yesterday's new music drop from Sade and Jaheim and upcoming CD releases we will soon get from the likes of Faith Evans and Mariah Carey to the newly reunited group Groove Theory.

Here at Liberated Muse, we always like to spread the word about acts that may not be as well-known as the names above, but who are bringing the fire with new music that stretches the confines of the box. Check them out! (Both reviews can be read in their original post at www.Soulbounce.com).

MEGAN LIVINGSTON



I came across the music of Labtekwon after a chance meeting on Facebook in 2008 and was totally dazzled by the lyrical prowess of this quirky Hip-Hop MC who is the epitome of originality and out-of-the-box ingenuity. His video for "Activator" was an immediate favorite but it was the video for "Tao of Slick" that I enjoyed most of all, particularly feeling the lyrics of the female vocalist on his track, New Jersey native Megan Livingston aka Hazel Black. Her vocal stylings--reminiscent of Amel Larrieux with a kiss of Sy Smith--were instantly alluring yet lulling.


So, how happy I was to be tagged in a Facebook posting by Labtekwon sharing his friend Megan's foray into the indie music scene as a solo artist. He shot and edited her first solo video in his abstract style that has become his visual trademark. The song, "The One," from her forthcoming CD Black Beckee (Ankh Ba Records) is a melodious masterpiece. Still channeling the spirit that fills Mrs. Larrieux, Megan's pretty crystal clear vocals glide over the rich jazzy music landscape composed by Thur Deephrey.

Read More HERE

NNEKA


"The daughter of a Nigerian father and a German mother, Nneka Egbuna was born in Warri, Oil City in the Delta region of Nigeria at the height of its new found wealth in the mid 70s," reads the bio on her website. But, while her biracial heritage and looks that resemble Amel Larrieux could easily cast her away as a wanna-be clone of the Groove Theory songstress, Nneka comes strong with a sound, personality and flavor all her own. If she reminds you of anyone, it is probably Floetry's Natalie Stewart once she starts breaking into rhyming like on the track "Showing Love" and her accented vocals tear into the track.

Yes, she raps. She is a musician, singer AND rhymer, and she handles all three with finesse.

Her new 12-track CD Concrete Jungle is an aural ride. With ease, she navigates the genres of Reggae, Rock, Acoustic Soul and Hip Hop. And, on this disc, Fela's Afrobeat lives. Few artists can succeed at this without sounding like a garbled mess--most have their schtick and stick to it. But,not Nneka. She doesn't have only one thing/sound that she does well. She seems to be mastering most genres pretty damn well.

Read the entire review HERE

Capital Rhythm & Soul this Friday

We are continuing our efforts to take part in the wonderful programming that takes place in the DC metro area throughout the year as a supplement to our annual festival, the Capital Hip Hop Soul Fest. What better way to do that than through an intimate concert venue and in a way that benefits an area nonprofit?

This Friday, join us for Capital Rhythm & Soul at the Potter's House in Adams Morgan in DC. Featured performers include acoustic soul singer C. Love, hip-hop soul singer Anonamas, R & B diva Mahoganee and Liberated Muse's co-founder Khadijah "Moon" Ali-Coleman, accompanied by Gary Young on guitar. The fantastic Dehejia Maat will host. Check her out below.

The event is $10 and will benefit Southeast Ministry, a local nonprofit in southeast DC that helps adults earn their GED and provides programming to young people throughout the year in the literary arts.

RSVP for the event on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Thanks for attending Liberated Muse events

Thanks for coming out to our events and being part of the community. Click HERE to view photos from yesterday's artist reception opening.

(In photo: Artists featured in the Liberated Muse exhibit "Celebration of Freedom" at the Potter's House at the Meet the Artists event on Nov. 14. Above are Liberated Muse artists/members, Prudence Bonds, Sherry Burton-Ways, James Terrell, and Sharon Burton, who also curated the exhibit.)

Rising Star Chaquis Maliq Shares Fave Moments from the International Soul Music Summit

Liberated Muse: What were highlights for you from the International Soul Music Summit in Atlanta, GA?

CM: The first day of the Summit was great because, the panel was all women! I loved the War stories from Chinah Blac, Keshia Jackson, and Lady Alma. These women really opened up allowed me to not feel alone with my struggle being an indie artist without a team. Also, with their stories I still find that Women have to work harder in this industry and often have to act like we have something to prove to get noticed. Learning that a lot of them having been struggling since teenagers in this industry and they are still here grinding, lets me know that I'm doing the right thing and gives me more motivation.

Liberated Muse: What was something you learned that you didn't know already?

CM: I did not know the full details about the Performance Rights Act Bill. Sean Glover of SoundExchange.com, really broke it down to us artist, and in no way does passing this bill to become a law interfere with radio stations losing money or being shut down. Passing the Performance Rights Act Bill will help recording artist to make a living to keep providing "The People" and the Radio with music. Dionne Farris made it plain by stating that "The radio and recording artist need one another to make the marraige work. The Radio needs music or else it will be Talk Radio."

Liberated Muse: Who were some folks you enjoyed meeting and why?

CM: I enjoyed Meeting Darrly of Moods Music. Great Brother that supports great music from great artists! I also enjoyed meeting Promoters from Japan and the UK, and other artists that hustle and stay motivated.

Liberated Muse: Was performing in ATL any different than perfoming in DC?

CM: Performing in ATL was a lil different then the performances that I have done in DC and surrounding cities. I plead the "Fifth" on giving details :)

Liberated Muse: What did you learn and pick up on that you will probably incorporate into your artist life? What can we expect from you in the next year?

CM: I am now taking "Brand Your Self" more seriously after hearing the great Eric Roberson, whom I think is the #1 indie hustler in the industry. So look forward to My album, "Veracity" in December 2006 @ Cdbaby.com and some merchandise in 2010!

Thanks Liberated Muse, where would Chaquis Maliq, be without you!?

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Chaquis Maliq is a singer, songwriting and producer originally from California and now based in Baltimore, Md. Visit her Liberated Muse page HERE to hear some of her music.

Colie Williams Dishes on her experience at the International Soul Music Summit

Liberated Muse was happy to be a sponsor of the 2009 International Soul Music Summit which was in September. Four of our members registered to participate and wound up being asked to perform. We asked them a few questions regarding their experience there.

Here is a Q & A with songstress Colie Williams.

Liberated Muse: What were highlights for you from the International Soul Music Summit in Atlanta, GA?

Colie Williams: My highlights were listening to the artists speak on the panels, meeting and interviewing with radio folks, meeting a brother who will most likely assist me with management, and listening to performances by artists and meeting other artists.

Liberated Muse: What was something you learned that you didn't know already?

Colie Williams: There was a lot of confirmation on things. I learned about a lot of sites that I can use for assistance, and just a reminder about the mind/body connection while singing-sometimes I allow my mind to affect my singing, and it doesn't have to. Had to psych myself in last night-I was exhausted, and I just focused on the task at hand- and my singing was fine. Believe me I'm pretty critical of myself, so if I say I pulled it off-I DID! Most folks were friendly, open, and ready to offer assistance. You just had to make yourself accessible.

Liberated Muse: Was performing in ATL any different than perfoming in DC?

Colie Williams: It was only different, because I am use to performing in venues where people know me. It's good to get a critique from folks who have no idea who you are. It's humbling, and it keeps you on top of your game.

Liberated Muse: What did you learn and pick up on that you will probably incorporate into your artist life? What can we expect from you in the next year?

Colie Williams: So many things-right now making sure I have the right folks around me which I was already working on. You have to have folks around you who share your vision-that was confirmation for me. Next year-My CD release and touring! I Believe! Ashe!

Colie performs on Wednesdays at Jojo's on U Street in Washington DC and is a singer and songwriter.

Teisha Marie on the International Soul Music Summit

Liberated Muse was happy to be a sponsor of the 2009 International Soul Music Summit which was in September. Four of our members registered to participate and wound up being asked to perform. We asked them 5 questions regarding their experience there. Here is a Q & A with songstress Teisha Marie.

Liberated Muse:What were highlights for you from the International Soul Music Summit in Atlanta, GA?

Teisha Marie: The variety of people that were at the conference. Also, those addressing the current state of the music/radio industry.

Liberated Muse: What was something you learned that you didn't know already?

Teisha Marie: I learned of a free resource online called Generation Y Rocker.

Liberated Muse: Who were some folks you enjoyed meeting and why?

Teisha Marie: Subliminal - a "soul-hop" artist from Toronto. His approach to music and performing was refreshing.

Liberated Muse: Was performing in ATL any different than perfoming in DC?

Teisha Marie: I would say it's about the same. You really have to work to get (and keep) an audience's attention. It appears that occasionally people take live performance for granted because it's done often in DC and Atlanta.

Liberated Muse: What did you learn and pick up on that you will probably incorporate into your artist life? What can we expect from you in the next year?

Teisha Marie: I am just going to be more aggressive in terms of my marketing and already unorthodox ways. So, I'll be increasing everything that I already do with just a little more force. I am in the process of gearing up for the next album. So maybe in the next year, that's what you'll see.

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Visit Teisha Marie's page on http://www.liberatedmuse.com/ to hear her music. Her CD "Addicted to Life" is on sale now.

Visit the website for the International Soul Music Summit HERE

Liberated Muse Performing Artists Represented in the 2009 International Soul Music Summit

This year, Liberated Muse is so proud to learn that several members of the network will be featured as performers at this year's Interntional Soul Music Summit.

The International Soul Music Summit (ISMS) returns to Atlanta, Georgia, September 24th – 27th, 2009 with a new theme, more artists, networking and nightlife activities.

With the theme: A Change Has Come: The Resurrection of The Real Thing the International Soul Music Summit is continuing its mission of educating and exposing soul music in all its forms. The largest music conference in the world dedicated to the soul genre; the International Soul Music Summit provides mainstream, emerging and independent soul artists, retailers, consumers and executives with information, networking opportunities, and technology on how to build noteworthy careers while continuing to make passionate, timeless music.

Terry Bello, Executive Producer/Creator of The International Soul Music Summit and Billboard’s 2006 Music Director of the Year, says this year’s summit will be the event of the soul music world. The first, second and third conferences attracted attendees from across the US and as far away as London and Germany. By calling attention to the importance of networking and education to fulfill the soul scene’s needs, we have invited people from other music scenes to honest, open and frank conversations about music. We have opened the door for artists to speak directly to the decision makers who are placing music, generating spins and we have provided the opportunity to gain the knowledge and contacts to augment their careers.

Components of the 2009 International Soul Music Summit, September 24th – 27th, include:

Continuous Daytime Panels and Workshops
Live Performances & Concerts/Acoustic Jam Sessions
Themed Networking Sessions/ISMS Network
Unsigned Artists Showcases
DJ Spins and Showcases
Exclusive VIP Parties with Headlining Artists
Fashion Show
The Recognition Awards and Kick-Off Party
The Homage Awards

Liberated Muse members performing at the ISMS are:

Colie Williams
Teisha Marie
Chaquis Maliq
Al Chestnutt
Afi Soul

Check out Colie and Teisha below:

Teisha Marie


Colie Williams

Fly Gypsy Representing DC & Beyond

Gums are a-flapping about the hot new hip-hop duo of Kowboy Kom (aka Komplex) and Alexai Tendayi. Music critics are praising the Washington DC-based duo for their ability to attract commercial appeal without compromising musical quality or message. http://www.liberatedmuse.com/ first introduced members to the hip-hop duo Fly Gypsy last year when the duo released the single "The Ruler". The eclectic video, featuring DC's Kuku was an instant fave on the network and pretty soon, Fly Gypsy eclipsed local awareness, gathering a national and beyond following.

Kowboy Kom, the group’s vocalist, moved from Montego Bay, Jamaica to Brooklyn, New York with his family when he was still a child. Growing up in New York during the golden era of Hip-Hop, Kom was inspired by hip-hop artists of West Indian descent coming up in Brooklyn, such as Wyclef Jean, Busta Rhymes, and Notorious B.I.G. When he was in the seventh grade, Kom began to write poetry and rhyme. By his early twenties, Kom rose to become one of the nation’s best recognized spoken word artists and emcees, praised for his clever storytelling, signature style, and natural swagger. He has headlined numerous college tours, appeared on BET J, and opened for artists such as Jill Scott, Dwele, and Doug E. Fresh.

Kom stands apart from other emcees in his preference for performing with a live band, rather than just a DJ. A true musician, who himself plays guitar and dabbles in piano, Kom has an intimate understanding of music and infuses his flow with musicality seldom seen in modern hip-hop.

Alexei, the duo’s producer and its one-man band, grew up on stage, dancing and performing music. Born and raised in Russia during the tumultuous years of the Soviet Union’s collapse, Alexei began playing piano and dancing when he was only six. When he was eight, his parents bought the family’s first double-deck boombox and within a few weeks, Alexei was selling mixtapes in his elementary school.

In his teens, Alexei came to the United States as an exchange student and later returned to attend college. He became known in the DC area with his affiliation with folk soul singer Kuku, collaborating on Kuku's projects and performing in various venues with him, including in Kennedy Center appearances born from an initial meeting at the famous Bar Nun open mic.

Kom and Alexei first met in a freestyle cipher at Bar Nun, as well, the legendary D.C. open mic spot where Raheem DeVaughn cut his teeth. Alexei was playing guitar, and Kom stopped by and dropped some verses. The two exchanged verses and guitar riffs much to the delight of the crowd that gathered around them. They then went on to focus on their individual projects until two years later, when Alexei invited Kom to feature on a hip-hop record that Alexei was working on. Fly Gypsy was born soon after. In a few short months, Kom and Alexei created an impressive collection of music, grown its worldwide fan base and attracted significant interest from the industry. Check out their spot HERE and catch their latest interview on WHUR 96.3 HERE

Attend the International Soul Music Summit with Liberated Muse!

The 4th International Soul Music Summit
September 24th - 27th 2009 Atlanta, GA

Click HERE to pay TODAY!

All 2009 ISMS registrants receive:


All Access laminate badge for all 4 Nights and 3 Days for all
official summit and showcase events. registrants receive a copy of the
ISMS Directory, the ISMS Compilation CD and the ISMS Bag full of
promotional items and creative ISMS inserts. you’ll have access to all
panels, workshops, networking parties, keynotes,artist
showcases,exhibitors,sponsors and select restaurants during the
summit!

The ISMS is the most affordable and musician friendly event of it's
kind in the country. You, your band or music industry related business
need to be represented at this event. Networking at this music summit
will provide you with the tools and contacts to take your music
business skills to the next level; but you must register to attend and
receive the ISMS laminate.



Join Liberated Muse Productions in September for the International Soul Music Summit. Enjoy the two for one deal above and hop on Travelocity to take care of your flight and hotel costs. The registration deal for the summit above is an EXCLUSIVE we are able to offer our members.

We are not going to travel down by car as earlier mentioned, but there are plenty of travel options by air.
We found this deal today: CLICK HERE.
We will hook up as a group once we get down to Atlanta. The hotel info is as follows:

RENAISSANCE ATLANTA HOTEL DOWNTOWN
590 West Peachtree Street NW
Atlanta, Georgia 30308 USA
Phone: 1-404-881-6000
Fax: 1-404-815-5010
Sales: 1-404-815-5011
ISMS Hotel Rate Special Code: imsimsa

The International Soul Music Summit
September 24th - 27th 2009 Atlanta, GA

Visit the International Soul Music Summit site for more details on the summit's activities.

Check the photos out below of Liberated Muse Productions at the 2008 International Soul Music Summit in Atlanta, GA



(Photos by Liberated Muse Productions, All Rights Reserved)

Some Upcoming Festivals to Check Out This Season

While Liberated Muse Productions proudly presents the Capital Hip Hop Soul Fest is summer, check out some other festivals taking place in the DC area...we will update you with more each month. Here are some coming up:

The 29th Annual Washington Folk Festival

Saturday, May 30th, 12 to 7 p.m. Sunday, May 31st, 12 to 7 p.m.at Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthur Blvd. Glen Echo, MD

Free Event for all ages • Rain or Shine

For more information: wff@fsgw.org or http://www.fsgw.org/

Held at the historic Glen Echo Park in Glen Echo, MD, the free Washington Folk Festival features music, dance, storytelling, and crafts from artists throughout the Washington, DC area, including Northern Virginia and Maryland. The rich assortment of cultures represented is a wellspring of music, song and dance from around the world as well as many traditional American music styles. The Washington Folk Festival showcases continuous performances, a family stage, and workshops for every interest and every age, on seven stages over two days of programming.

43rd Annual ARSC Conference

May 27-30, 2009Liaison Capitol Hill Hotel, 415 New Jersey Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

The full conference program is at http://www.arsc-audio.org/conference/.

For more information contact David Giovannoni, Program Chair, at dgio-arsc@comcast.net, 301.987.2512.

One hundred and thirty years of recorded sound history-from the earliest extant recordings to today's "born digital" formats-will be explored when collectors, archivists, and recording historians convene for the 43 Annual Conference of the Association for Recorded rd Sound Collections (ARSC) in Washington, D.C., May 27-30. Sessions will focus on a full range of musical genres, artists and performances, as well as the timely issues of recorded sound preservation and restoration, public access, and copyright reform. ARSC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation and study of sound recordings, in all genres of music and speech, from all periods. The meeting brings together a unique mix of over 200 recorded sound professionals and private collectors - all sharing a passion for our audio heritage.

The 10th Anniversary Washington Jewish Music Festival

June 4th - 11th

Tickets range from free to $35

For tickets: wjmf.orgFor information: 202-777-3251 or info@wjmf.org

The Festival kicks off with a Pre-Fest Event with Israel's Ivri Lider on June 2, followed by the official Opening Night on June 4 with the award-winning Andy Statman Trio. The Festival closes with a bang with Grammy Award winner Miri Ben-Ari: The Hip Hop Violinist. Other performers include: Pitom, The Sway Machinery, Feinsmith Quartet, Electro Morocco, ShirLaLa and The Kinsey Sicks. There's something for everyone during this festival of live performances, hands-on workshops and cross-cultural dialogs.

Indie Label Snatches Up DC Grammy Nominee, Kokayi (That Rhymes. Cool)

New York City Independent hip hop label, QN5 Music, has signed Washington, DC’s Grammy-nominated emcee/singer/producer, Kokayi, to its official stable of innovative artists and producers. Pronounced “Ko-Kah-Yee” (or KOKE for short), this 202-native takes his name from the Swahili word meaning “to summon the people”.

Musically self-sufficient and versatile in ways that the QN5 roster is known for, he produces his own music, writes his own rhymes, sings from the gut and is self-taught on several instruments. A prime example of QN5’s New Hip Hop aesthetic, Kokayi joins the label as an in-house producer and artist who will release the sophomore follow-up to his independently released 2007 debut Mass Instructions.

On his own, he’s already managed to tour the world and snag the aforementioned Grammy nod for Best Urban/Alternative Performance for his collaboration with vocalist Wayna. What’s equally impressive, is his prolific output. Kokayi is keeping busy on multiple fronts with appearances on forthcoming QN5-releases as well as several side-projects already in the works – including a joint-project with producer Sharkey entitled Dastardly and a full-length project with his Afropunk band, The Caesarz.

"Honestly I pour everything out on a song. It allows me to free myself from any inhibitions,” Kokayi says of his approach to music. “If I can move people that say they don’t like hip hop, than I know my job is done.”

“I’ve always been extremely proud of the roster I’ve assembled under the QN5 banner and I’m highly selective of who we work with – but when I heard Kokayi’s Mass Instructions album, I was floored,” says QN5 label founder, Tonedeff. “This is a cat who seamlessly blends genres without so much as flinching and brings his own unique sound, slang and vibe to the table. His talent won’t allow him to play by the rules, so QN5 is definitely the perfect place for him.”

Also on the QN5 label is hip-hop sensation Substantial, currently on a European tour. Substantial is a featured performer in the 2009 Capital Hip Hop Soul Fest, a Liberated Muse Production.

Michael Baisden Is Looking for Indie Artists for His Radio Show-- Send In Your Music Today!

Taking Radio to the next level by breaking new artists and promoting undiscovered songs, nationally syndicated talk show host Michael Baisden gives new and undiscovered artists a chance of a lifetime, to be featured on his nationally syndicated talk show, Love, Lust, and Lies.

If you're an artist with original music, please send him a copy of your CD, along with the following information:

- Name of artist

- Title of CD

- Name of the song you want featured

- Year of release

- Contact info on artist or record label

- Website info on where the song can be purchased or listen to online

- A copy of the CDSongs

MUST fit the Love, Lust, and Lies format, Old school, R&B, and Neosoul and Clean Rap. Michael Baisden's producers will contact you if your song is chosen. All materials are non-returnable. Make sure your contact information is included in your submission.

Mail to:Michael Baisden ShowRadio Wars / B-Side Submissions1844 N Nob Hill Rd #610Plantation, FL 33322-6548

Visit his new social network HERE