Letter To a Friend

Letter To a Friend:

Celebrity Wardrobe Stylist Kiwi Shares Some of her Memories of our Angel Celebrity Hairstylist

Dariel Pulliam

Letter To a Friend:  Dariel, words can’t express the impact that you have made in my life...Since the first day I met you we have been close and even in death we will still be close, I love you so much and I know that you are in heaven smiling down with that smile of yours.

 I’m going to miss you imitating Blanche from Golden Girls that we love to watch whenever I come to do my hair, or when I’m leaving you tell me “child, don’t come back no more, I’m not doing your hair no more” or when you use to say “you better leave that child of yours outside” LOL, these are the things that I will miss most about you.

God has himself another angel with him and I know that you are watching over us, and I want to say that I love you so, and RIP my friend. My heart aches that you are not here, but I know that you are in a better place babes, and in me you will forever live on….  I could go on forever about how much of a good person you were but a letter can only be so long…….I LOVE 

RiRi or CiCi?

Did this beef start because Ciara was still friends with Chris Brown after he beat Rihanna? I'm just wondering...

Ok, so I'm sure you are aware by now about the Rihanna and Ciara situation. But here's my tidbit on it.  Ciara was asked by the fashion police including Joan Rivers about her opinion on a dress Rihanna wore.  Instead of at all commenting on the dress Ciara took the opportunity to mention how Rihanna was not as nice as she used to be. She went on to say she had a run in with Rihanna and it wasn't the most pleasant experience.  Rihanna took to Twitter to respond, apologizing for not tipping the soon to be broke singer. (Ciara and her label situation not looking good and all) Ciara responded on twitter warning Rihanna that she was not competition on or off stage. The amused Rihanna questioned CiCi's ability to book the stage. The event ended with Rihanna apologizing after stating she was hurt by Ciara's actions on TV and Ciara accepted after stating whatever happend at the party threw her off. This whole ordeal has left fans talking and of course once again comparing the two.

In 2003 Ciara came on to the music scene with her hit song "Goodies". Her debut album with the same title went three times platinum and spawned several hits. She was indeed the next it girl with comparisons to Beyonce' due to her light colored hair and impressive dance moves.Ciara is marketed as a dancer that can sing., which her label Jive knows oh-too-well how to maret effectively with other artist Chris Brown and Britney Spears. 

She released her sophmore album Ciara: The Evolution in 2006 which went platinum and included hits "Promise" and "Like A Boy". Later releasing her third album Fantasy Ride in 2009 after several single changes.  It seemed as though Ciara was trying to try something new and appeal to a new audience with her single "Go Girl". It was slightly less urban than her previous releases and underperformed on the charts.  She bounced back with single "Never Ever" which was not a major hit but a major improvement hitting #9 on the Billboard R&B chart. The album however did not manage to break gold, selling close to 200,000. It seemed as though during this era Ciara was more concerned with shopping and looking pretty with pals Kim Kardasian and Lala Vazquez than promoting her album and working.

Eager to save her career the label and CiCi rushed back into the studio recording her fourth album Basic Instinct.  Her single for "Ride" was banned from BET killed her likelyhood of proper promo of the single and wasted the money the label spent; not good being that she already didn't move numbers with the previous album.  Ciara kept it moving and released "Gimme Dat" which did not perform well along with the slower tune "Speechless". The album moved close to 35,000 in its 1st week of release December 2010.

Most recently Ciara took to her Facebook page to disclose what was really going on behind the scenes.  Come to find out  Ciara spent thousands of dollars on single promo and hundreds of thousands on the video for "Gimme Dat" due to her label not pushing the song.  I took from the Facebook entry that the label was probably trying to do things their way only this way around due to Ciara's poor sales with the last album. Which I don't see a problem with. Ciara, being the underseller, should have stay humble and let the label handle it. Fighting them did not help, even if her vision was better...it did nothing positive for that particular situation.  Now, Ciara awaits the label as she has requested to be released from her contract...well thats the last I heard. Tweet me if you have an update. Either way it goes, the future will most likely hold Ciara and Jive not being hand in hand any longer.  BTW, Ciara has one Grammy for being on Missy Elliott's song "Lose Control"

Rihanna has always been marked as the stunningly beautiful girl who can sing with a sexy accent, move her body in sexy ways, model and quite frankly should be a model. One thing her and CiCi can fall back on. She came on to the music scene in 2005 with her raggae influenced hit song "Pon De Replay" which hit #2 on the Billboard 200 charts. She then released debut album "Music of the Sun" which went Gold.  Rihanna followed up eight months later with her sophmore album "A Girl Like Me" which spawned her first #1 hit SOS. Then releasing the Neyo influenced "Unfaithful". The album "A Girl Like Me" went platinum. Rihanna changed her long dark brown locks and cut off her hair. She revealed a short dark black bob with her third album, one that the world went into a frenzy for. The album set loose 3 massive #1 hits, the Jay-Z assisted "Umbrella", Neyo influenced "Take a Bow", and Chris Brown penned "Disturbia".  The album "Good Girl Gone Bad" hit shelves a year after her last and went two times platinum, going better than her previous releases. All was not well behind the scenes with then boyfriend Chris Brown who we all know beat the living crap out her for assusing him of cheating.  It was inevidable for this too influence her next album.

In 2009, she cut the rest of one side of her head off and died the other side a goldish color. New look, new album, this became her trend.  She released the suicide promoting single "Russian Roulette" shining attention on her being depressed from being beaten by her ex boo.  She quickly released the much more urban "Hard". Both singles were top 10 and served the purpose of letting both her pop and urban fans know she was about to birth a new album.  "Rude Boy" however was the albums top hit reaching #1.  The album entitled "Rated R" was her fourth release and went Platinum, performing less than her previous releases.  Rihanna attributes this to her depressing sounding music on this album and focused more on happy go lucky party types sounds on the next.

A year later she released her Platinum selling fifth album "Loud" which gave us the #1 hits "Only Girl" and "Whats My Name"  Her team, genius...GENIUS.

Being Single VS Being In A Relationship

Being on Twitter and Facebook one of the unavoildable topics in relationships.  Some people are happy in their relationships and some not. Some people are happy being single, some not. You can be both.

Being in a relationship you can be happy. I guess I can start with mine. We have been together for about 10 months.  At the beginning it is all happy and you are so in love! Then you start to have some doubts...personal ones or ones from things that have happend to you in the past.  This may start to cause some problems or early second thoughts. You get over it...its natural to second guess a drastic change in your daily activities. One such as living with, loving, considering someone. But, you start learning more about yourself, about them, and you figure out your place in the relationship.  You both start to grow and find better ways to communicate and you adapt better characteristics that people in relationships should have. You start to look out for one another realizing the other is looking out for you.  You get past the arguements and realize its petty and then you REALLY start to be happy. You find a friend in your partner.  When we 1st got together my better half had a 1 year old all white pitbull. After we were together for about 8 months I got a 4 week old blue pitt with grey hair and a little white with blue eyes. They are not like people make pitts seems. They are raised correctly and are like little spoiled kids. Don't judge them by the reputation presented by dogs that are trained to be mean.  Chance is now 2 years old and Melody is going on 9 weeks.   We are a happy little family residing in Gwinnett County Georgia. Currently focusing on raising the kids and reaching our dreams.

You can be unhappy in relationship that involves constant abuse, cheating, and settling for less.

You can be happy single, but you will experience occassional depression and lonesome. Being single you are content with who you are. But this might not be good if you're not the best that you can be. If you are in a relationship with someone who motivates and inspires you (which you should be) then you will be striving to be a better person which is a good thing because life is about growth.  It may be frustrating at times, but that is inevitable and comes with the territory. The end result is worth it! Why always take the easy way out?

You can be unhappy single.  This goes without saying. It is natural for people to want to share their lives with another and experience love.

Tweet me and let me know if you'd rather be single or in a relationship and why! @GMooreSonOfSoul on Twitter.

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Smart Business Women in Music

Oprah Winfrey

I just left my show and bought my own channel. I don't think I need to say anymore. Oh, and I don't make music but I was just necassary to be mentioned.

Janet Jackson

I am one of the best selling black women you know. I can't really sing but hey, being MJ's sister can do wonders for your career. Anyways, I look better than...well alot of people. There is nothing wrong with being a dancer that can sing. And if Madonna could do it so can I.  My relationship with Jermaine Dupri took me to a different area in music and it just didn't work well. You shouldn't mix business and personal relationships if at all avoidable. My albums weren't selling as well but I was still going platinum.  So I said, forget this. I'm not focused on making albums anymore. I'm just going to do acting and touring. I don't have to make an album to tour and sell out arenas. I am that bad.

Jennifer Lopez

I am the highest paid Latin actress ever in history. I released several platinum albums eventhough I can't sing like that but neither can Janet or Paula. So, shoot me. But, you know I can dance enough to make up for that so...yea.  I'm beautiful and have a very large bottom so I am very marketable and have done really well with my perfumes and other endorsements. My last album didn't do well at all. Not sure if you know but Mariah Carey's ex husband is who kind of created me so when he left my label I wasn't happy so it showed in my work and sales. After the album didn't sell well I asked for and was granted a release from my label. I am now signed to Def Jam with Rihanna so I'm GOOD. On top of that I am a judge on American Idol now so I am unavoidable on your television and my name is in everyone's mouth. Things are looking GREAT for me now. How you doin?

Lil' Kim

I am the Queen, ask Biggie.  During my prime I was who everyone wanted to see at the awards shows, wondering what I had on.  Diana Ross even copped a feel.  My style was hardcore and nobody could deny my talent.  I even won a Grammy for that song Missy put me on with Xtina, Pink and Mya.  Sold millions and snatched my crown back from that chick Foxy when she tried to do me like Monica did Brandy. Yes I have changed my face but I am BEAT with this new nose I got so stop playing.  I went to jail so that through me off a little bit yea. Came back and was hot on Keyshia's "Let it Go" song, 'nother track Missy made sure I got on.  Then I turned up on "Dancing with the Stars" and got me my cute check and was back in the public eye. Came out with the new sound on my song "Download". Fans wasn't really feeling that. Still working on music, getting paid from all the millions I've sold, next thing I know this chick Nicki come on the scene.  She talking bout she won and killed all of us while she rocking my looks. Um, no. But I was cool. I tried to even go over the Cash Money and bring her out with them. But Nicki was tryna be the only female. She love me and look up to me but she don't want me stealing her shine over at Cash Money or taking from the money that can be spent on her. Well, at least that is what I think. I think she didn't want me getting money off of her eventhough she was copying me.  So yea, that was a no no. So I'm using this whole situation to benefit me.  You don't want pay me, I'ma get paid.  I came out with this mixtape, sold over a hundred thousand in like 28 hours. I'm good.  I didn't do the black hair or the bleach blonde in my video either. I did the honey gold cuz I'm not tryna look like that girl. Meanwhile, look for me soon I'm coming out with an album and I don't care what nobody got to say I am paid, been paid, and am still getting paid and yes I am still the Queen.  Holla at me Nicki if you wanna collaborate just be ready to cut that check!

Nicki Minaj

I am going to come out under the one of the best rappers Lil' Wayne, but only if I like the record deal. I don't want a regular rapper deal cuz I am not a regular rapper. I want to sing and I do not want to be limited.  I am going to get my body done for attention and use pink hair under my black hair, its a cute look. I'm going to put out a few mixtapes. Sold a million on a mixtape, who does that?  Next I am going to feature on any and everyone's song like Wayne would...stack paper.  The public thinks I'm with Drake? I'm going to use that for promo. Went to my twitter and tweeted we was married. Love him though, thats just my bro.  Anyways, in all my videos I'm going to change my hair color. I'm going to rap assuming different character personalities and name them. Everyone is going to love it!  My wigs look like Lil' Kim and my facial expressions remind you of Missy Elliott, my laughs on the tracks sound like Trina. I am just all the best wrapped up into one. Meanwhile, on my album I'm going to sing like Rihanna and I am going to cross over beyond what is expected of a rapper. My album is platinum and I now have had two #1 Rap songs. I'm doing my thing and I will be around for sometime so get used to it. You should all be thanking me, I brought attention back to female rappers.  And in case you didn't notice, I have been showing my acting skills in "Right Thru Me" and "Moment 4 Life" and its not just by chance.  I'm being smart and letting the world know I can act so when I'm ready, I'll start considering the roles that have already been offered to me.  Love you Barbz.

Beyonce'

I am going to be the center attention of a group of females who can all sing but just have not been as developed as me yet. However, they are going to benefit from being in a group with me because they gone learn from my skills, get a check, public attention and fans.  This way, we will all come out with money in the bank. Then I am going to focus on my solo career.  First I am going to do an R&B album to gain fans from the music I was raised on, my roots. Next, I'll go back to the group to show I still love my girls. I don't want to look like I totally ditched them. Now we as a group have 3 grammys and sold over 50 million albums making us the world's best selling group according to the World Music Awards. Point proven, back to my solo thing. I'm going to change it up and do a whole dance album, forget the slow R&B cuts. But, I'm still going to have some hood feeling tracks like Upgrade U. Meanwhile doing all these albums I'm going to do a couple of movies that involve me singing. Might as well get me an extra check.  Next album I'm going to split it up to cater to everyone. First side of the album is going to be pop ballads and second side is going to be dance tracks some pop and some more urban.  I'm going to do a video in black in white of me dancing the best that I have ever danced and watch as youtube fans go into a frenzy making it the would have been best video of the year but congrats to Taylor.  I don't even have to mention my total of 16 Grammy's, all my endorsements and other accomplishments. You know the deal...Queen B. Wait, let me not forget to mention Jay eventhough its none of ya'lls business. I am married to Jay-Z who is a legendary rapper, has his own label, clubs, oh and Oprah LOVES him. After my album is released in 2011 I will probably finally give him a baby.

Jada Pinket Smith

I am going do my acting thing on TV on A Different World then go to movies like 'Shame and Set it Off. But this acting thing started not going well anymore because black female actress do not get that many roles anymore.  But thankfully I fell in love with actor Will Smith who can pay all my bills plus yours and yours families so I'm good. While raising our kids I was still doing movies, just not often. Now the kids are a little older so I am back on TV with my show called Hawthorne.  I'm still ensuring our future cuz our daughter Willow is the next Rihanna or even better and Jaden is the next Will Smith.  Are you wondering why I was mentioned? Because my daughter sings while my son and husband have rapping skills; skill that are putting money in the family account.

Nicki Minaj scores her 2nd #1 Billboard Rap song

Rolling Stone Magazines Queen of Hip Hop Nicki Minaj scored her 2nd Billboard #1 Rap Song. Her already Platinum debut album Pink Friday debuted at #2 on the Billboard 200 chart with sales over 375,000 in its first week.  It is the second highest debut in female rap. It was said to come in second in history behind Lauren Hill's "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill" with 423,000 copies sold in its first week of release 12 years prior in 1998. However, Minaj points out Hill's album was not categorized under Hip Hop/Rap. Fellow rapper Missy Elliott comes in behind Minaj with 259,000 copies of her 2002 released "Under Construction" album.

In 2010, Nicki became the first female hip-hop artist to top Billboard's Rap Songs chart with "Your Love" since 2003. Fellow rapper Lil' Kim hit #1 as a featured artist on 50 Cents "Magic Stick" in 2003 while Missy Elliot hit #1 as a solo female rap artist in 2002 with "Work It".

The newly crowned Queen of Hip Hop scored her second #1 this week with "Moment 4 Life" featuring fellow Young Money artist Drake. ((see link: http://www.billboard.com/#/column/chartbeat/chart-highlights-adult-pop-rap-songs-more-1005024482.story ))

Nicki is opening up doors for other female rappers, both old and new. The Grammy Awards gave their first award for Best Female Rap Solo Performance to Missy Elliott in 2003. Elliott beat fellow male rappers in the previous category for Best Rap Solo Performance (male and female mixed) in 2002 with "Get Ur Freak On" and won the first Grammy for Best Female Rap Solo Performance in 2003. The female rapper category only lasted for two years, both Elliott won. In 2005 the Grammys resumed mixing the category with both male and female. In other words, its been 6 years since the category for female rappers only has existed at the Grammys. The industry is already buzzing and expecting the category for Female Rapper's alone to reopen at 2012 Grammys due to Minaj bringing attention back to the category.

G. Moore Son Of Soul: My Take on Nicki

She is not trying to be what everyone wants her to be. She does not want to be a hardcore female rapper 24/7 all the time. She wants to do pop, singing, and many different things with her career and wants to use all her different entertaining personalities while doing it.Whatever she is doing, it is working. She seems to be a mixture of many different female MC's. Most obviously Lil' Kim and Missy Elliott with their wardrobe, wigs, and entertainging facial expressions.  She is all of our favorite rapper qualities mixed up into one.  She recently has mastered her performance of "Moment 4 Life" on Ellen which incorporates her singing and rapping. Without a doubt a force to be reckoned with.

Update: G. Moore's Latest YouTube Video's

                            


Singer/Songwriter G. Moore is scheduled to resume studio time in Riverdale, GA on tomorrow. He has kept the YouTube video postings coming. Be sure to check him out, comment, subscribe, tweet about! Spread the word, G. Moore is taking 2011 by storm! You can view his latest video's below:

Update: Singer/Songwriter G. Moore Trip to St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands

Singer/Songwriter G. Moore landed in Atlanta, GA on yesterday after visting St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands.  He was there due to recieving a paid vacation from his corporate America job which he maintains while working on his demo. He came back ready to work and has resumed focus on his current single. G. Moore is currently booked for studio time for this coming Friday. Pictures of him, friends, loved ones, the resort he stayed at, and just plain fun and relaxation in action below.

Randy Jackson scores JLo's singing

American Idol judge Randy Jackson recently appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live where he was grilled about fellow American Idol Jennifer Lopez’s singing voice. When asked to rank Lopez from a 1-10 10 being the best he gave her a solid 7. He went on to say that while judging he can hear her singing and that is how he knows she can sing. Jackson stated she doesn’t have a Mariah Carey voice, but she can sing. He mentioned names such as Lady Gaga and K$SHA as other singers who don’t have Mariah Carey voices but can sing. Well said, in my opinion. Jennifer Lopez is no Mariah or Beyonce’ but she is also not down there with Janet, Britney, Ciara, or Cassie either. Though, she is not far from it.  This is just another case where we give artist credit where credit is due. Jennifer never tried to be a “singer”, nor was she ever marketed that way. She is a dancer that can sing, a very intelligent one as that. Let’s face it, the bitch is bad. She may not be selling that many albums now-a-days but that didn’t stop American Idol from paying her all these millions did it?

Kanye Needs to Join #TEAMSITDOWNANDSHUTUP

Kanye West seems to be fully incapable of sitting down and shutting up.  West seems to have not learned from the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards Taylor Swift incident. We all remember West going on stage during Swift’s acceptance speech to say Beyonce’ Knowles was more deserving of the Best Female Video win. Yes, Beyonce’ was more deserving. Her video was imitated and re-created numerous times on the famous you tube site. Even the president was caught doing the “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)” dance. However, West was way out of line. The public of course wasn’t feeling West for quite some time and many still are not. Here we are again fresh off the start of the new year and West had the itch to step on another pop stars toes, Britney bitch.  Spears released her latest single “Hold It Against Me” on January 10, 2011. It is expected to debut at # 1 this week with sales over 400,000. Kanye tweeted from his Twitter account, “Yo Britney, I’m really happy for you and I’mma let you be #1, but me and Jay-Z single is one of the best songs of all time!” No, Britney may not be the best singer but let’s give credit where credit is due. She is what she is, pop royalty. Numbers do not lie. It’s not Swift nor Spears’ fault that the world loves them so West needs to sit down and shut up. He, as he confirmed, may have been joking but it is besides the point. Certain things should come from certain people’s mouths. He is in a permanent time out and needs to watch his mouth at any and all times.  West is and continues to be a poor example of what the outcome of a child whose dreams came true should look like.

Aretha wants Halle!

                Oscar winning actress Halle Berry is first pick to play eighteen time Grammy winner and Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin in her upcoming biopic about her life.  This however, is not Berry’s first time playing a singer in a film.  In 1999, she played Dorothy Dandridge in her biopic Introducing Dorothy Dandridge and earned herself a Golden Globe, an Emmy and a NAACP Image Award.  Halle Berry is one of the highest-paid actresses in Hollywood, earning $10 million per film.

                Aretha has had 20 No.1 singles on the Billboard R&B Singles Chart. From her mouth comes a soulful, strong, perfectly controlled, raspy, and gospel influenced voice.  Her biopic announcement comes eight years after the biopic film release of fellow Queen…of Rock and Roll that is, Tina Turner.  Turner’s biopic film “What’s Love Got to Do with it?” was released in 1993 featuring Angela Bassett playing Tina.  However, Bassett was not the first actress offered the role. Halle was considered for this role as well. Singer Whitney Houston was first to be given the role, but had to decline due to imminent maternity.

                Here’s a little something you may not remember or have known.  Grammy Award winning singer and Golden Globe nominated actress Beyonce’ Knowles called out Tina Turner at the 2008 Grammy Awards as “The Queen”. Franklin responded the following day with a statement indicating her displeasure with that occurring. She was sure to mention she was not sure whose fault it was, the Grammy writers or Beyonce’. She went on to still say she has love for Beyonce’.  There is room for more than one Queen. Aretha and Tina don’t even sing the same type of music. Furthermore, a real queen doesn’t have to remind us.

                I would like to go on to say that there has been drama in the past between the two actresses as well, Bassett and Berry. How ironic huh? That not only Tina and Aretha got had issues but the actresses that play them did too? Can’t we all just get along? Bassett was originally offered the role in the Monster’s Ball film that Berry won her Oscar for. However, Bassett turned it down due to the nudity and sexual content. She felt as though the character portrayed black women in a stereotypical manor. Bassett makes a habit of speaking up for black actresses and speaking out against stereotypical roles. Halle, however was hurt by Bassett’s words. They later made up. Though, I wouldn’t have cared too much about making up. I would have just cared about that Oscar I got! Halle Berry has not accepted the role as of yet due to her lack of a singing ability. However, Aretha does not seem to care about that. Hopefully something will be worked out, lip-syncing is an option of course. I for one didn't expect Halle to be singing, Franklin's voice should be used/heard.

Artist Profile: Kelly Rowland

               Kelly Rowland signed to Columbia Records with Destiny's Child who  released their Platinum debut self - titled album which gave us the number one hit "No, No, No" in 1998 under management of Beyonce’ Knowles' father Matthew Knowles. They went on to release their 8x Platinum sophomore album The Writings on The Wall in 1999 which gave us number one hits "Bills, Bills" Bills" and "Say My Name".  After losing two members, gaining two, and losing one more they released their third 4x Platinum album Survivor in 2001 which gave us the well recieved "Survivor" and number one hit "Bootylicious". Between their sophomore and third album they earned another number one hit with "Independent Women Part I" from the hit movie Charlies Angels Soundtrack.

The three remaining members disbanded to release solo projects. During this time Kelly collaborated with rapper Nelly on his album with the song "Dilemma". The song released in June of 2002 was a hit, which led to Kelly's team rushing her solo debut album "Simply Deep", which she recorded in barely three weeks. She released “Stole” as a single which incorporated the alternative rock/pop sound that she wanted to go for. “Stole” peaked at number 2 in the UK. Following with the release of “Can’t Nobody” peaking at number 5 in the UK. It goes without saying that Kelly’s debut album performed very well in the UK and established her as a solo artist there.  I do not believe the US was ready to embrace a pop/rock sound coming from an R&B artist. However, the album managed to go Gold in the US and sold over 2 million worldwide.

Kelly reunited with member’s Beyonce’ Knowles and Michelle Williams of Destiny’s Child and released their fourth album “Destiny Fulfilled” in 2004 which went 3x Platinum. In 2005, the World Music Awards recognized them as the World's Best-selling female group of all time selling over 50 million records worldwide.  Still at the top and still the best of friends, the group again disbanded to focus on solo careers. Still with Columbia Records and Matthew Knowles, Kelly began work on her sophomore album. Finished, she and the label were not pleased due to there being too many ballads on the first draft. She then went back into the studio to record more upbeat songs. Beyonce’ then released her sophomore album ahead of time instead. 

(G. Moore:  Beyonce’ was to release her debut album “Dangerously in Love” ahead of Kelly’s “Simply Deep”. However, as mentioned Kelly released her debut first due to the success of “Dilemma.” Now, years later Kelly was supposed to release her sophomore album “Ms. Kelly” ahead of “BDay” but that did not happen. I say this all to say, does anyone remember the public saying Beyonce’ did Kelly wrong by putting B’Day out ahead of time? The public has always tried to say there is drama between the two. There is none. They know it’s just business and that is what has helped them to remain friends.)

                Meanwhile, Kelly enlisted producers Polow da Don (see Ciara, Keri Hilson) and Scott Storch (see Christina Aguilera) to give her the upbeat sound she wanted. Kelly released “Like This” feat. Eve as her first single from her sophomore album Ms. Kelly in 2007.  The upbeat song was very well received and peaked at number 7 on the Billboard US R&B chart and number 4 in the UK. Kelly held a poll for fans to pick the next single which was won by "Comeback". Kelly however, urged the label to release “Ghetto” feat. Snoop Dogg as a second single which they did a whole 5 months after the release of "Like This". That is way too much time in between singles. The US public lost interest.  The album and "Ghetto" failed to perform well in the US.

                It was during this time that Kelly questioned if she wanted to do music anymore. She like anyone else would be, was frustrated by the mishandling of now two projects by her label. Her debut album being rushed and her sophmore album being delayed rather than focused on correctly by her label from the beginning of its recording.  The album had gained all the attention it was going to get in the US. However, as before it continued to perform well in the UK.  Kelly then released “Work” as her second single in the UK where it peaked at number 4. It was major hit. The world began to think she had moved over to the UK because of how long she was there on promo for the single. It was during this time she met French House music producer David Guetta (see Black Eyed Peas “I Gotta Feeling”). In 2009 Guetta featured Kelly on his debut single for his fourth album “One Love”. The single is titled “When Love Takes Over” and enlist a new house sound for Kelly. It performed extremely well in the UK where it peaked at #1. The song earned Rowland her second Grammy Award.

Kelly regained her will to continue doing music. She was ready to take the world on again.  Rowland and Columbia Records parted ways. But, she didn’t stop there. She left manager Matthew Knowles, who has been attacked verbally by the public on many occasions for showing favoritism within Destiny’s Child to his daughter Beyonce’. Rowland though, has never confirmed that being her reason for parting ways with him as her manager. He though, seemed a bit bitter releasing statements confirming that there would never be another Destiny’s Child album. Kelly fired back confirming that Matthew is and has never been a member of Destiny’s Child and has no say in the final decision. Rowland set the record straight giving fans again the hope that another Destiny’s Child album has not been ruled out but is not in the works at this time. Beyonce’ and Kelly though maintain their friendship. Following Kelly’s departure from the label and Matthew, Beyonce’ was seen and pictured at Kelly’s birthday party.

Kelly began work on her third album independently. She was without a label for the majority of the recording process. However, Rowland was very content with this. She did not know if she wanted to go to another major label or not. Well off she was from her earnings from Destiny's Child, solo projects, and her ever so impressive past, current, and future success in the UK, Rowland very easily completed her recording sessions without the help of a label. Now that, my readers is a bad b.  Universal Motown Records took interest in her project after hearing the direction she was going in. Kelly decided to sign to Universal Motown Records. Again, though we may not see current success in the US bringing in a living for Rowland; anyone that knows anything about the industry can surely assume she was given an advance (paycheck) from the label upon signing. Kelly however, I do not take as the type to go wasting it shopping unless it is on her shoe fetish. Kelly released the David Guetta produced “Commander” as her first single in the UK where it peaked at number 9. She then released the Ne-Yo written “Grown Woman” for the urban audience and the Ester Dean written “Rose Colored Glasses” for the pop audience in the US. Following the release of a video for “Rose Colored Glasses” there was little to no promo done. This came immediately following Rowland’s collaborating with producer Jermaine Dupri (responsible for assisting Mariah Carey with her comeback album “Emancipation of Mimi which was certified 6x platinum in the US) The album has been delayed to allow for Kelly to work more with Dupri as well as a few other producers.  Rowland and her teamed are determined to put a dent in the US charts this time around, not just the UK.  As of now Kelly is to release two separate albums. One in the UK and one in the US. 

Meanwhile, Nelly reached out to Kelly again 7 years now after the release of Dilemma. Nelly and Kelly are scheduled to released “Gone” from Nelly’s most recent album “5.0” as his next single.

G. Moore:

It has been 13 years since the release of Destiny’s Child’s debut album. She has over a decade in the game under her belt and is still going. Here’s hoping that Kelly’s third album exceeds the performance of her previous releases and exceeds the expectations of the public as well. This should not be a problem with the team that she has now. With her going back to short hair, a new label, and new management 2011 is sure to have great things in store for Kelly. I, have been a fan since Destiny's Child's first album. My favorite song by Kelly comes from her sophmore album entitled Ms. Kelly. The track is titled "Better Without You". I hope that you enjoy me singing it! Take a listen below:

Singer/Songwriter G. Moore Pays Tribute to the Legendary Luther Vandross

Singer/Songwriter G. Moore uploaded a new video to his YouTube account yesterday. He payed tribute to the legendary Luther Vandross singing "Superstar".  Luther is almost untouchable with his vocals! He is a SINGER. There is a difference between a singer, a performer, and an entertainer. Not everyone can stand on stage with nothing but a mic; no lights, no band, no music, nothing but a mic and an audience. Luther can do that with his powerhouse voice. Some singers had the chance to collab with him prior to his death. (see. Mariah Carey, Beyonce') I definately wish I had the chance to do so but just the fact that I still have his music is enough for me. May he RIP and may his music continue to touch lives across the globe.

Enjoy, Comment, Suscribe, Support, Spread the word!

Follow on Twitter: @GMooreSonOfSoul

Artist Profile:

G. Moore is currently working on promoting his new Twitter music page, building a Facebook music page, promoting his blog, and networking. He and his management team Write Ones Music in Atlanta, GA are excited about the new year and what it will bring. In 2011 G. Moore plans to finish his demo with hopes of fulfilling his dreams of signing a record deal.

Today's Music Industry

Music Industry Today: Singer

Today’s music industry is in high contrast with pervious years.  Artist albums went from going diamond, to eight times platinum, to four or five times platinum, to double platinum, to just platinum, to gold to not even selling gold. All artist have been affected.  Back in the day rtist whose whole album went only platinum were in threat of getting dropped from their label or having a smaller budget for their next album, but now artist who go platinum are the most bankable. Even selling over 500 k (going gold in the US) now-a-days means you still have a strong future as a singer in today’s industry.  Album first week sales have seen a drop over the years as well. Artist used to sell over 400 k in the 1^st week; some still do while others have dropped experienced less than hoped for.

Well established artist that are iconic yet very active (see. Beyonce’, Usher) still do excellent numbers during 1^st week sales. Usher last album Raymond vs Raymond (2010) sold over 300k during its 1^st week of release, Beyonce’ last album Sasha Fierce (2008) sold over 480k during its 1^st week of release.

The new breed of young Pop/R&B artists still surpass their peers. (see. Rihanna, Trey Songz) Trey Songz last album Passion, Pain, Pleasure (2010) sold over 207 k during its 1^st week of release while Rihanna’s last album Loud (2010) sold over 240k.

Artist with minimum or little to no promotion but still an impressive fan base sell are now selling at least 60k during 1^st week sales. Even more impressive artist break the 100k and 150k mark during 1^st week sales. This may not sound like much but in today’s industry it means job well done.  Examples: Keri Hilson recently released No Boys Allowed which sold over 100 k during its 1^st week of release. Jazmine Sullivan recently released Love Me Back which sold over 57 k during its 1^st week of release. They both have a good chance of at least going Gold (selling over 500 k in the US). Then there are artist like Keyshia Cole selling 128 k during the 1^st week of her most recent album Calling All Hearts. Whereas, she sold over 300 k during the 1^st week sales of her last album A Different Me. Her difference in sales can be attributed to her extreme lack of promo and her releasing the album before having anywhere close to a hit single. Singles Ain’t Thru feat. Nicki Minaj and  Long Way Down were pretty well received, however her promo did not go into affect until within the same month of the album release. That was far from enough time for a single to chart and top properly prior to the album release in genre she is in.

Below you will find a trend of different artist:

Examples: (US Sales)

Beyonce'

• Sold over 8 million (8x Platinum) with Destiny’s Child with The Writings On the Wall (1999)
• Sold over 4 million (4x Platinum) with Destiny’s Child Survivor (2001)
• Sold over 4 million (4x Platinum) with debut album Dangerously In Love (2003)
• Sold over 3 million (3x Platinum) with Destiny’s Child Destiny Fulfilled (2004)
• Sold over 3 million (3x Platinum) with BDAY (2006)
• Sold over 2 million (2x Platinum) with I AM…Sasha Fierce (2008)

Alicia Keys

• Sold over 6 million (6x Platinum) with Songs in A Minor (2001)
• Sold over 4 million (4x Platinum) with The Diary of Alicia Keys (2003)
• Sold over 3 million (3x Platinum) with As I Am (2007)
• Sold over 1 million (Platinum) with The Element of Freedom (2009)

Mariah Carey

·        Sold over 6 million (6x Platinum) with Emancipation Of Mimi (2005)

• Sold over 1 million (Platinum) with E=MC ² (2008)
• Sold over 500 k (Gold) with Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel (2009)Janet Jackson
• Sold over 3 million (3x Platinum) with The Velvet Rope (1997)
• Sold over 2 million (2x Platinum) with All for You (2001)
• Sold over 1 million (Platinum) with Damita Jo (2004)
• Sold over 1 million (Platinum) with 20 Y.O. (2006)
• Sold over 400 k with Discipline (2008)

Mary J. Blige

• Sold over 3 million (3x Platinum) with No More Drama (2001)
• Sold over 1 million (Platinum) with Love & Life (2003)
• Sold over 3 million (3x Platinum) with The Breakthrough (2005)
• Sold over 1 million (Platinum) with Growing Pains (2007)
• Sold over 500 k (Gold) with Stronger with Each Tear

Ciara

• Sold over 3 million (2x Platinum) with Goodies (2004)
• Sold over 1 million (2x Platinum) with Ciara: The Evolution (2006)
• Sold near 200 k  with Fantasy Ride (2009)
• Sold near 35 k with Basic Instinct (2010)

Usher

• Sold over 4 million (4x Platinum) with 8701 album (2001)

• Sold over 10 million (Diamond) with Confessions (2004)
• Sold over 1 million (Platinum) with Here I Stand (2008)
• Sold over 1 millions (Platinum) with Raymond VS Raymond

R. Kelly

• Sold over 8 million (8x Platinum) with R. (1998)
• Sold over 4 million (4x Platinum) with TP-2.com (2000)
• Sold over 3 million (3x Platinum) with Happy People/U Saved Me (2004)
• Sold over 1 milion (Platinum) with TP.3 Reloaded (2005)
• Sold over 1 million (Platinum) with Double Up (2007)
• Sold over 345 k with Untititled (2009)
• Sold over 154 k during 1^st week sales with Love Letter (2010)

Chris Brown

• Sold over 2 million (2x Platinum) with debut album Chris Brown (2005)
• Sold over 1 million (Platinum) with Exclusive (2007)
• Sold over 100 k in 1^st week with Graffiti (2009)

Trey Songz

• Sold over 396 k with Gotta Make It (2005)
• Sold over 346 k with Trey Day (2007)
• Sold over 802 k (Gold) with Ready (2009)
• Sold over 532 k (Gold) with Passion, Pain, Pleasure (2010)

See the trend?

Now: Gold and Platinum up to 2x Platinum+

Then: 3x Platinum and above+

Artist that are still doing well, I take my hat off to. Most if not all albums are available for free download now-a-days. Artist whose fans still go out or go online and BUY their album have a true fan base. Though album sales are still important, artist with a strong enough fan base to tour make money that way among other ways as well. Strong promo is a requirement now-a-days, not an option. Everything must be close to perfect in addition to the actual ALBUM. I am scratching my head at how some artist still are wasting time recording album fillers. Every song needs to be single worthy/quality if consumers are going out to buy what is available online for free. Last but not least. I won’t to acknowledge Monica Arnold for her major success and comeback. Her team did an excellent job and we need a strong R&B singer like herself in the game. Monica went gold with her recent release Still Standing. I even thought she had room for one or two more singles accompanied with promo and videos. It seems as though she went straight into the studio to capitalize on the success of Still Standing. Usually artist release albums every 2-3 years if they are not on break. Artist like Rihanna and Trey Songz are releasing albums every year to capitalize on selling sex and beauty. Monica, I believe is simply capitalizing on her success after not doing well with her last album and waiting 4 years between the most recent Still Standing (2010) and previous album release The Makings Of Me (2006).

I hope to use all that I see and have learned to be a successful singer as well.

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Youtube: http://youtube.com/babireloaded

Twitter: http://twitter.com/GMooreSonOfSoul

Nelly and Kelly to do it again!

Grammy Award winning Rapper Nelly and Grammy Award Singer Kelly Rowland reunite after the success of 2002's Grammy Award winning single "Dilemma". This time on Nelly's song "Gone" from his recently released 5.0 album. Listen to both songs below and see a picture of the two at the 2010 BET Hip Hop Awards above.

Poem By G. Moore: In This Skin



Singer/Songwriter G. Moore shares another poem he wrote entitled: In This Skin

        In this skin, i have my best friend, ill be with myself til the end, i kno all my sins, i get on my own nerves every now and then in this skin.

In this flesh, i realize i am very different from the rest, i deal with all the stress, i kno exactly how i am blessed, i filter out all the people that r a mess while im in this flesh.

In this body, i kno out there there is for me somebody, i kno i fear nobody, i kno my savior walks beside me,  i kno when im going thru theres no use in hiding, cuz someone is bound to do the finding when im hiding in my body.

In this heart of gold i see thru any unpure soul, with it i c my way thru my list of goals, my life's destiny will unfold, my love will find that i kept it for them, it was never sold, no price exist for my heart of gold.

In my eyes, u'll see each and everytime how i've been tryed, u can find out exactly whats going on in my mind, u'll c my tears before they are cryed, you'll c my sighs before they're sighed if u look hard enough in my eyes.

If you could get into my ears you'd be able to review all the negativity i hear, all the doubts in my hemisphere, all the times people have been to me everything but sincere...if u can get into my damn ears.

In my lifetime, i'll retreive everything rightfully mine, every so often the years will pass so fast i'll lose track of time,  i'll have many times to shine, i'll find whatever i'm meant to find, there'll be moments when i need to stop wut i'm doing and go back over my life,  and rewind over my lifetime.

All that u need to kno is inside of me, so stop going 'round searching, when u really thrive off the negative rumors riding me, for my downfall y r u so thirsty? When i say this, it's fact, u won't hurt me.

Don't focus on Gary, so many people try to be involved in my life it's scary, i can't understand y u remember wut i had on last year, wut i was wearing, or y u never speak, u just like staring....

I mean wut i say, i walk wut i talk.  I'm underwriting that by stalkers i won' t be stalked.

I'm asking u nicely to stop trying to be like me.

I'm tryna tell u, in my skin u will never get in.