Godspeed, Queen of Soul: RIP Aretha Franklin (1942-2018)

Ms. Franklin’s reputation for speaking her mind and sometimes shading folks who rubbed her the wrong way, I was more anxious than I usually was when meeting a star. But since she was cordial to us, apparently we passed Aretha’s test. Witnessing her talents in person was incredible enough, but having one-on-one contact with the Queen herself? That was a privilege I will never forget.

Vacating The HeartBreak Hotel, AKA Lessons In Love

“Insanity: doing the same thing over  and over again and expecting different results.” — Albert  Einstein Picture it: 1998. Actress, rapper and former Fugees member, Lauryn  Hill , layers fiercely feminist principles of self-love and  relationship empowerment over hip-hop rhythms for her debut solo CD, The  Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. Her soul-searing ballads and hard-hitting… Continue reading Vacating The HeartBreak Hotel, AKA Lessons In Love

Aretha Franklin’s “Best of Aretha 1980-1998,” ST CD Review

Aretha Franklin – Knew You Were Waiting: The Best of Aretha Franklin 1980-1998      Click on CD cover to listen or purchase “Think.” “Call Me.” “Respect.” “Day Dreaming.” “(You Make Me Feel Like A) Natural Woman.” Long before I witnessed a live performance and met her backstage in 2008, I’ve recognized and celebrated the magnificence… Continue reading Aretha Franklin’s “Best of Aretha 1980-1998,” ST CD Review