Tuesday, September 25, 2007

Album Review: The Real Thing


Let me start this review by saying: If you haven’t purchased The Real Thing yet, do it now! It is such an amazing collection of Words and Sounds that Jill Scott is known for. The songs on this album are nothing short of classic Jill Scott music. With a newer, sexier, braver, more independent sound and voice, Jill has done it again. If you loved her first two albums, you will adore the growth heard on Volume 3. And if you’re a newcomer, you’re even better off because this album is nothing like what’s being pushed out there – the lyrics are real, the music is real, and Jill Scott is The Real Thing. Enjoy this album as an affirmation of self and a true look into the soul of not only Jill Scott, but of the human spirit everywhere. The universal themes addressed are clearly seen from the start with “Let It Be”, “The Real Thing”, “Hate On Me”, “Whenever You’re Around”, and “Wanna Be Loved.” The sensual Jill Scott is heard with “Come See Me”, “Crown Royal”, “Epiphany”, and “All I.” And the soul-baring raw emotion of “My Love” cannot be matched. In order to answer the original question WHO IS JILL SCOTT? one must listen to the entire album to grasp the full experience of the BEAUTIFULLY HUMAN artist who has evolved into THE REAL THING. The quest is not over, but we are coming to an answer to that original question, and it can only be: Jill Scott.

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Here's a song-by-song review of this amazing work of art:

1. Let It Be – great affirmation song that makes the point of not letting people define you and not having to fit into any specific category

2. The Real Thing – another wonderful song of self-affirmation and a feel-good/get-your-blood-pumping song that praises who you are and what makes each of us the real thing

3. Hate On Me – amazing anthem to be yourself and not let anyone stop you

4. Come See Me – very passionate song that evokes so much desire and longing to be with that person who makes you feel so good

5. Crown Royal – very sexy song, very sensual

6. Epiphany – I felt like this could be a Missy Elliott song from Under Construction and I just loved it! What a sexy song that makes you want to move, has so much imagery but then ends with the thought that it was all just empty sex

7. My Love – emotional and evocative of raw emotion and pain

8. Insomnia – great beat and vocals, I really enjoy this song because of its honesty and stream-of-consciousness type lyrics of endless contemplation

9. How It Make You Feel – if all black women disappeared, I’d be pretty damn upset! But this is a great song because it really emphasizes the point that us men would be nowhere without women and that men must appreciate and not take women for granted

10. Only You – very mellow song with a very interesting meaning that took me a few times to understand exactly what the story was

11. Whenever You’re Around – great great song! Such an awesome beat with killer lyrics which talk about the loneliness of a dying relationship where it feels like they’re not even with you when you’re right next to that person who’s now so cold

12. Celibacy Blues – a very bluesy song dedicated to Jill’s vibrator in which she sings of the troubles of maintaining celibacy with all the stresses of life

13. All I – very sensual song which expresses the freaky side of Jill (which I love!) and how much she just wants to make love to someone (I’m gonna assume it was Lyzel) because of all the things he makes her feel when they’re so close

14. Wanna Be Loved – how Jill wants to be loved and how there is something bigger and better for each of us out there, and that is true love, a primal need that everyone feels and needs

15. Breathe – Jill does a great rap that says she should not be compared to anyone, which applies to all of us and how we should be celebrated for who we are, not what we’re not

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The entirety of this album is really about being The Real Thing in our own lives in whatever way we know how, which is just by being ourselves. The universal themes of self-love, self-appreciation, and self-affirmation are so touching because I truly feel that it is so important to be yourself in a world full of expectations and misconceptions. In that world, we have God, we have ourselves, we have family, and luckily we have Jill Scott who continually reminds us to love ourselves and be proud of who we are and what we have to offer without letting others define or hate on us while being our true selves. I love it! If you’re a soulful human being, you will LOVE this new album, The Real Thing: Words and Sounds Vol 3.

Monday, September 24, 2007

The Real Thing various retailer exclusives


I have been doing some detective work lately on The Real Thing regarding some retailer exclusive versions of the album. This is what I've found out so far, and when I find out more, this topic will be updated accordingly.

+ The Walmart exclusive contains the bonus track "Family Reunion (Live in Paris)"

+ The Best Buy exclusive contains two bonus tracks "The Way" and "Whatever", both Live in Paris

+ There is a F.Y.E. exclusive as well, "Golden (Live in Paris)"

+ There is also a Circuit City exclusive, but that track is also unknown at this point

+ The Japanese edition of the album has "Bedda At Home (Live in Paris)" [thanks to previouscats on the Hidden Beach Family Reunion]

+ I do hope that iTunes has a bonus track, because that's where I plan on buying my first copy of the album and then I already pre-ordered the Deluxe Edition from Amazon.com, but I have no real reason to believe that iTunes will, so we can still hope
** Update: I was right! iTunes does have a bonus track. It's the VH1 SoulStage performance of "Hate On Me."

I guess it's safe to assume that the other two (possibly three) retailer exclusives will also have live tracks from the as-yet-unreleased Jill Scott: Live in Paris DVD/CD set, which I hope is released soon because I love Jill's live stuff.

OK so with all that said, no matter why you get it, be sure to pick up The Real Thing tomorrow!!!

Lots of Exciting News!


I am just so excited by all these wonderful things!

First thing first, this blog, which I take so much pride in, is featured on the official website of Jill Scott!!! How awesome is that?! Go to JillScott.com and look down the left-hand side where it'll say "Jill's Roll Call." In that section you can find a link to Oh Hell Yes! which I think this is just the best thing since sliced bread! I am so pumped by this incredible news! Woooo hoooo! [Click the picture above to enlarge and look to the lower left for Oh Hell Yes!]

And if that weren't enough, tomorrow finally sees the release of Jill Scott's The Real Thing: Words and Sounds Volume 3!! So do not forget to buy your album tomorrow when it drops.

And to top it all off, the historic EIGHTH SEASON premiere of 'Girlfriends' is exactly one week away! So next Monday I want ya'll to be tuning in to the start of what will be another wonderful season of the best show. "Range Of Emotions" premieres on the CW at 9pm, so be sure to catch history in the making. Following the premiere on Monday night, be sure to download your Season Pass of 'Girlfriends' from iTunes so you can watch it anytime you want! I'll be posting a link of course once it's available.

Phew! So if this all isn't exciting, I don't know what is! Go check Oh Hell Yes! out on Jill's site, be sure to purchase your copy of The Real Thing tomorrow, and don't forget to catch the season premiere of 'Girlfriends' next Monday.

AND the hits on this blog have reached over 3000! That is incredible! Thank you to all my visitors! Keep on comin'!

Only 1 Day!


With only 1 day left til the release of The Real Thing: Words & Sounds Vol 3, here are more tracks from the first two volumes of Jill Scott's spectacular Words and Sounds. Seeing as how the number 8 is my favorite number, I chose the eighth track from each of Jill's studio albums to showcase her incredible skills:

+ Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol 1 --> "It's Love"

+ Beautifully Human: Words and Sounds Vol 2 --> "Talk To Me"

Don't forget that tomorrow is the day that Jill Scott releases The Real Thing: Words & Sounds Vol 3!! Go buy your copy! :)

Sunday, September 23, 2007

"Why Did I Get Married?" = Gathering of Greatness



We all know that Jill Scott is starring in this new Tyler Perry movie called "Why Did I Get Married?" but I just realized that this cast is spectacular and really encompasses so many of my favorite things.



Let me explain...

First off, I love me some Jill Scott, so that was my original interest in this film. Now after seeing that cool trailer for it (above), I am convinced that this movie is a Gathering of Greatness, in my eyes anyway!

Here's the cast: OK so from my favorite show 'Girlfriends' is Richard T. Jones who plays Aaron (first pic below), the fiance to Tracee Ellis Ross' Joan Clayton. Also from 'Girlfriends' is another of Joan's love interests, Malik Yoba (second pic below), who played Brock and almost swept Joan away from Aaron this past season finale. Luckily, he didn't, but I think it's funny that those two men, who played such pivotal roles in 'Girlfriends,' are now also in this movie with another 'Girlfriends' alum, our own Jill Scott, but we knew that too.




So to have them three in the movie is cause enough to see it, but wait, there's more. One more cast member rounds out my Gathering of Greatness theory. And that's Sharon Leal, who played Michelle, one of the Dreams, in the Beyonce-starring flick "Dreamgirls" which also starred my girl Jennifer Hudson (see all three of them below). That movie was wonderful and I loved every second of it, as well as the soundtrack.



So, with all that said, "Why Did I Get Married?" looks to be an amazing film that brings together many of my favorites. Catch it in theaters everywhere on October 12th!

Only 2 Days!


Double dose of Jill Scott day!

+ Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol 1 --> "He Loves Me (Lyzel In E Flat)"
---> "The Way"

+ Experience: Jill Scott 826+ --> "A Long Walk (Groove LIVE)"
---> "Sweet Justice"

+ Beautifully Human: Words and Sounds Vol 2 --> "Spring Summer Feeling"
---> "I'm Not Afraid"

Enjoy this double dose of the lyrically-delicious diva Jill Scott! And don't forget to buy The Real Thing: Words & Sounds Vol 3 on September 25th!

Saturday, September 22, 2007

Only 3 Days!


Because there are only 3 days left until the release of The Real Thing: Words & Sounds Vol 3 from Jill Scott, here is a set of LIVE triplets from the talented Jilly from Philly:

+ Experience: Jill Scott 826+ --> "Love Rain (Suite LIVE)"
---> "The Way (f/ Mike Phillips LIVE)"
---> "Do You Remember (LIVE)" (My personal favorite from the live album)

Bask in the live vocals from such a talented woman, and don't forget to grab your copy of The Real Thing: Words & Sounds Vol 3 on September 25th!

EXCLUSIVE: Beyoncé "Diamonds" Song!


Another Oh Hell Yes! Exclusive download is here, and this time it is from the unstoppable Beyoncé!

Here for download at Oh Hell Yes! is the EXCLUSIVE mp3 of the song Beyoncé made for her Emporio Armani Diamonds fragrance. Entitled "Diamonds Are A Girl's Best Friend", this is a short song used for promotion of the perfume. I ripped the audio myself from the commercial video for the product.

Enjoy Beyoncé - Diamonds Are A Girl's Best Friend [Oh Hell Yes! EXCLUSIVE]

Jill Scott Outtakes!


While searching Jill Scott Facebook groups, I came across a nice group that had these three amazing pictures which are album shoot outtakes for The Real Thing. [Click images for larger versions.]

The pictures are really hot and Jill looks so damn good! (Especially in the last one!)

Two are variations of the main standard release album cover and one was used as an official wallpaper on her website, but they are all so nice.

Enjoy!

Friday, September 21, 2007

Only 4 Days!



The countdown is halfway done!! With only 4 more days til the release of The Real Thing: Words & Sounds Vol 3 from Jill Scott, here are three more soulful tracks:

+ Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol 1 --> "A Long Walk"

+ Experience: Jill Scott 826+ --> "Slowly Surely (LIVE)"

+ Beautifully Human: Words and Sounds Vol 2 --> "Cross My Mind" (Grammy Award winning song!)

Enjoy! Don't forget to pick up your copy of The Real Thing: Words & Sounds Vol 3 in stores September 25th!

Thursday, September 20, 2007

Only 5 Days!


The countdown continues til the release of The Real Thing: Words & Sounds Vol 3 from Jill Scott! The following are three tracks which show off the amazing vocal abilities of Ms. Scott.

+ Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol 1 --> "Do You Remember"

+ Experience: Jill Scott 826+ --> "It's Love (LIVE)"

+ Beautifully Human: Words and Sounds Vol 2 --> "Rasool"

Enjoy! And don't forget to purchase your copy of The Real Thing: Words & Sounds Vol 3 in stores September 25th!

Jill Scott on another magazine


Jill Scott is making the rounds and I am loving it! This time, catch Jill on the cover of the current issue of Upscale magazine! I'm sure it'll be a good read... let us know your reactions!

[Credit: JillScott.com]

'Girlfriends': 160 episodes strong!


WOW! I cannot believe that the upcoming premiere of the eighth season marks the 160th episode of 'Girlfriends'! Is that wild or what? One hundred and sixty episodes and still going strong... I love that 'Girlfriends' is continuing into its eighth season - it is truly a milestone in history.

Clearly, word of mouth is a powerful thing, because we all know that that is the only way 'Girlfriends' has lasted this long; there is absolutely no promotion for this wonderful show, yet it has stood the test of time and is still here. I love it!

So anywho, here is another description of the Season Eight premiere episode "Range of Emotions" from TV.com:
<<<
Joan causes a dispute between herself and Aaron after purchasing an expensive kitchen range for their new house and not discussing it over with him. After they defuse their feud, Aaron receives unexpected news. Meanwhile, Lynn begins to flaunt her success with her progressing music career.
>>>

Nothing new, but I am just in love with the incredible 'Girlfriends'. Don't forget to tune in on October 1st at 9pm on the CW, and let all your friends know it is on as well!

The Real Thing DELUXE Edition Tracklisting


According to Amazon.com, this is the official tracklisting for both the CD and DVD of The Real Thing: Words and Sounds Volume 3.

Disc: 1 (CD)
1. Let It Be 1:50
2. The Real Thing 3:24
3. Hate On Me 3:29
4. Come See Me 4:59
5. Crown Royal 1:48
6. Epiphany 2:31
7. My Love 3:50
8. Insomnia 3:55
9. How It Make You Feel 4:32
10. Only You 3:32
11. Whenever You're Around 4:07
12. Celibacy Blues 2:15
13. All I 4:56
14. Wanna Be Loved 3:22
15. Breathe 2:06
16. Imagination / Crown Royal Suite (Bonus Track)
17. Rightness (Bonus Track)

Disc: 2 (DVD)
1. My Love (Music Video)
2. Hate On Me (Music Video)
3. Cross My Mind (Music Video)
4. Golden (Music Video)
5. A Long Walk (Music Video)
6. "The Reel from The Real Jill Scott" (an intimate conversation with Jill)

I cannot wait for this album!!! The only thing I must say is that I am quite disappointed that there are so few music videos on this Deluxe version... I really thought they would have ALL of Jill Scott's videos on them, not just a select few. I mean, don't get me wrong, I am so happy that we are even getting to own some of her videos, I just expected to have all of them. Oh well! I still am eagerly anticipating this release!

Check back to Oh Hell Yes! everyday until the release on September 25th for some classic Jill tunes...

Wednesday, September 19, 2007

Important Artist News!


Firstly, the official website of Ashlee Simpson has been updated some with a new release date for her third album. It has now been pushed back to December 2007.

Missy Elliott's website has revealed that she is back in the studio and will have a new album out in the Spring of 2008. [Thanks to Kevipod Music for the news bit.]

And most importantly, the offical website of Jill Scott has been updated into a full-fledged website... great job Nuccio!!

Be sure to visit these great artists' website for all the latest news and features, and keep it glued to Oh Hell Yes! for updates.

The Leak: Jill Scott - The Real Thing!


Thanks to a heads-up from temujinscott on the Hidden Beach family reunion, the leak of Jill Scott's The Real Thing Deluxe Edition is on VH1! I was going to fight the temptation to listen to it, because I love being surprised by the full album and I also like to listen to it straight through as part of the full experience, but my Mac already made that decision for me and won't let me play any of the tracks, so that was easy! Haha. I hope ya'll can enjoy the leak though. Let us know how amazing it is!

Also, here's the final official tracklisting for the standard version:

Let it Be
Real Thing
Hate on Me
Come See Me
Crown Royal
Epiphany
My Love
Insomnia
How it Make You Feel
Only You
Whenever You're Around
Celibacy Blues
All I
Wanna be Loved
Breathe

Let us know what you think about the album, and don't forget to buy your copy on September 25th!

Only 6 Days!


Only 6 days remain until the release of the highly-anticipated third volume of the wonderful Words & Sounds of Jill Scott. This album is The Real Thing, and to prepare ya'll for this, here are three other songs from Jill's unforgettable past:

+ Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol 1 --> "Watching Me"

+ Experience: Jill Scott 826+ --> "One is the Magic # (Redux LIVE)"

+ Beautifully Human: Words and Sounds Vol 2 --> "Not Like Crazy"

Enjoy! And keep on waitin for that September 25th release of "The Real Thing: Words & Sounds Vol 3" from Jill Scott!

Tuesday, September 18, 2007

Only 7 Days!

Over the course of the next week, I will be having a Jill Scott countdown. From yesterday until the 25th, there will be the 8 Days of Jill exclusively on Oh Hell Yes!

I will be posting favorite cuts from all of Jill's previous albums. For today, with only 7 days left until the release of The Real Thing: Words and Sounds Volume 3, I will post a song from each of the following amazing 3 albums.

+ Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol 1 --> "Gettin' in the Way" (First Jill Scott Single!)

+ Experience: Jill Scott 826+ --> "Gimme"

+ Beautifully Human: Words and Sounds Vol 2 --> "Golden"

Those three songs were all the first singles released from each of those spectacular albums. Enjoy!

Jill Scott on the cover of JET magazine!


From Jet's official website:
<<<
It’s no surprise that Jill Scott loves poetry, novels and music, but many people may not know that this Grammy Award-winning artist also adores another popular pastime. “I’m a video game girl,” she says as she sips on a cup of coffee and gazes at the brilliant blue view of Lake Michigan during a recent visit to the Johnson Publishing Company headquarters in Chicago. “I love The Sims. I love old games like Robotron and Ms. Pac-Man. I love those games. I love them.” Scott’s affable disposition makes the one-on-one conversation with Jet as smooth as her velvety voice. Even when she is asked about her breakup with her manager husband, Lyzel Williams, who has been a part of her life for 12 years, the neo-soul singer opens up about the delicate situation, which inspired many songs on her latest CD, The Real Thing: Words and Sounds Vol. 3. Read more in the September 24 issue. On newsstands now.
>>>

The picture of her on the cover is so hot! She looks beautiful and I am so excited to get my copy of Jet. Go buy it now!

Monday, September 17, 2007

'Girlfriends' S8.1 Episode Title!


<<<
MONDAY, OCTOBER 1

SEASON PREMIERE

"GIRLFRIENDS" (9:00-9:30 p.m. ET)

"Range of Emotions" (TV-14, L) (HDTV)

AARON IS CALLED TO IRAQ When Joan (Tracee Ellis Ross) buys an expensive new kitchen range for their new house, her fianc Aaron (Richard T. Jones) get upset that she spent money without discussing it with him. Later, after Joan and Aaron stop arguing, he receives news that his National Guard unit is being called to Iraq. Meanwhile, Lynn (Persia White) is enjoying her newfound success with her music career and begins to flaunt it. Golden Brooks, Reggie Hayes, Keesha Sharp and Khalil Kane also star. Debbie Allen directed the episode written by series creator and executive producer Mara Brock Akil (#40338-160).
>>>

Thanks to ENAS20 from the official 'Girlfriends' Lounge on the CW website. This is going to be a great season!

Short interview about 'Girlfriends' S8


On The CW Source blog, there is a cute little interview with Keesha Sharp and Khalil Khan (Monica and Darnell) from 'Girlfriends' who talk a little bit about the history-making eighth season of the show.

Not too much information given away, but it's nice to see someone talking about the eighth season of 'Girlfriends'... can't wait for the premiere on Monday, October 1st at 9pm on the CW!

Only 8 Days!

In only eight short days, The Real Thing: Words & Sounds Volume 3 will be out!! How exciting! I feel like I've been waiting for this album forever and now I am so happy that it's only about a week til the hotness drops... I cannot wait til next Tuesday! Don't forget to purchase your own copy of the album on September 25, 2007.

On a more serious note, I figured that with so many blogs running amok with album leaks and all that other junk, I just wanted to take a stand about all that. In all honesty, I want to be the authoritative source on all things Jill Scott, with all the new items, all the news, and everything else in between. I want to support that woman like no one has before, and for the most part, I feel that I have been really giving so much support when there really aren't any websites or blogs or anything else dedicated to the beautiful Jill Scott, and I am proud of that. But part of that desire to be the one spot for Jill Scott lies a problem because if/when the album leaks, I will NOT post it. I refuse to degrade something so wonderful as to have it leaked out right before its real release. I just want ya'll to know that while I want to be the source on Jill, I will NOT undercut her works of art by giving it away for free illegally. Yes I love Jill Scott and I cannot wait to hear this new volume of goodness, but not at the expense of her artistry.

So to tide ya'll over and to feed the Jill Scott craving, here is "Be Ready" and "He Loves Me (Lyzel In E Flat)(Movements I, II, & III)[Live]" from Experience: Jill Scott 826+.

I am looking forward to getting my copy of The Real Thing on September 25th and I am eagerly anticipating what Jill Scott has in store for us with this new album!

Sunday, September 16, 2007

'Girlfriends' Tops Hottest Women List!


On AOL Black Voices, our favorite 'Girlfriends' have been chosen as the number 1 spot on the Hottest Women on TV countdown... that's awesome!

Here's what they had to say:
<<<
Name: Tracee Ellis Ross, Golden Brooks and Persia White

Show: Girlfriends (CW)

Did You Know: 'Girlfriends' is the longest-running African-American sitcom currently on the air

Why They're Hot: Joan, Maya and Lynn have been an example of beautiful black women on TV for the last seven years.
>>>

Congratulations to the cast of 'Girlfriends' who are definitely the hottest women on television! Catch these three hotties on the Eighth Season premiere of 'Girlfriends' on the CW at 9pm on Monday, October 1st.

Classic 'Girlfriends' clips

I was looking through YouTube's slim offerings of 'Girlfriends' videos and came upon some funny classic clips from the shows past seasons. I'll be posting these sporadically throughout the course of the next few months so that we can enjoy these moments at a slower pace and savor the 'Girlfriends' goodness.

First up we have the introduction of Lynn's sister who everyone thought was acting Black. It is so funny!


Enjoy!

Saturday, September 15, 2007

Video: Maroon 5 & Eve perform LIVE

I know this is old, but I have been watching this amazing performance for awhile and thought I should share the goodness, so here is Maroon 5 performing "Wake Up Call" LIVE with a special guest-rap from the incredible Eve! This remix is so hot and I just love the way Eve spits her rap on this rock song. This collaboration from two of my favorite musical acts is so awesome and it just goes to show that genres don't mean a thing... I mean, seriously, this clearly proves that "rock" and "rap" can exist together in such a great way. I love that these two acts worked together on this song.



What do you think of this special performance?

Enjoy!

Thursday, September 13, 2007

New 'Girlfriends' S8 Video Preview!


Recently added to the CW's official 'Girlfriends' website is a short video previewing the new season of the show. Looks like it's going to be very interesting in a great way!

Here is a downloadable version of the short clip which shows Joan's blissful engagement from last season's finale and also shows a cute little interaction between Joan and Lynn, who seems to have moved into Joan's awesome house while she and Aaron have moved in together. No word from Maya yet, but that could be a good thing - ain't nobody wanting that sad miscarriage story to come along...

Are you excited about the new season? Oh Hell Yes!

Ashlee Simpson: Lapdancer extraordinaire?

That's hot!

According to the latest MTV News article about Ashlee Simpson, she gave a near-perfect and semi-instructional lapdance to Pete Wentz in Vegas after the VMAs... sounds steamy!

Read the article here.

By the description, sounds like her alter-ego Vicky Valentine was out and about during this lapdance that was sure to please...

Wow where do I get in line for one of those?

Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Words & Sounds, Post 9


This post is going to be a hodge-podge of some of my favorite artists back in the day. These tracks are songs I used to love and listen to every once in a while to keep the love alive...

First we have Alanis Morissette with "Head Over Feet (Acoustic)".

Then we have Alicia Keys with "Diary".

Next up is Destiny's Child with "Bug A Boo".

Then we have Mary J Blige with "Real Love".

Also we have Shakira with "Octavo Dia".

And next is Taking Back Sunday with "Bonus Mosh Pt.II".

And finally we have Green Day with "She's A Rebel".

So enjoy this random goodness and lemme know how ya feel, whatcha looking for, etc. Peace!

Monday, September 10, 2007

Words & Sounds, Post 8


Since this is the eighth post of Words & Sounds, and 8 is my favorite number, this post will focus on my longest-running musical obsession: Beyonce!

From her invaluable Destiny's Child days, this woman has stunned me with her beauty and voice, and as she progresses into the strong and powerful woman who is Beyonce, I'll be a fanatic.

So here is Beyonce's first solo song that was featured on the Survivor album from Destiny's Child: "Brown Eyes". It is a beautiful ballad which expresses such a deep love. Great song.

And from her solo debut Dangerously In Love is "Yes". It is a hot song that shows a stronger side to Beyonce while also showing a more vulnerable side.

To complete the trio, here is "Beautiful Liar (Spanglish Version)" which features Beyonce's aforementioned alter-ego Sasha.

So there you have it, some more great tracks from the unstoppable Beyonce Knowles!

MTV reviews some new Ashlee songs!


As part of their special VMA coverage in Las Vegas, MTV News got to listen to some of the new tracks from the November album of Ashlee Simpson.

The article is such a good read and leaves so much room for excitement about the upcoming project from the great Ashlee!

The article also reveals Ashlee's alter-ego, called Vicky Valentine, much like Beyonce's alter-ego Sasha who was featured on the Spanglish version of "Beautiful Liar." I love how these awesome artists have little alter-egos who are tough and are muses to these wonderful ladies.

Read the special article on MTV.com

I cannot wait to hear the new flavor from Ashlee Simpson! Woo-hoo!

Reel on "The Real Thing" - Jill Scott



On the Hidden Beach website, there is a feature on Jill Scott where she talks about her latest album, ready for release on September 25th, The Real Thing: Words and Sounds Vol. 3. The interview lasts for seventeen minutes and I hope it is released on the DVD Deluxe Edition of the album - that would be awesome as a bonus feature!

Just follow the link...

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Also, as a sidenote, the amazing performance of "Whenever You're Around" from VH1 Soul Stage has been added below to download as an iPod video from Jill Scott.

Ashlee Simpson "Love Me For Me" LIVE

This may be my favorite song from Ashlee Simpson, and this is such a great live version of it. I'm not sure where or when it's from, but "Love Me For Me" has such a great message and I love Ashlee's raspy vocals - they're so hot!



I can't wait for more Ashlee goodness...

Saturday, September 8, 2007

Even more 'Girlfriends' S8 news


From Entertainment Weekly,

<<<
"We are calling this 'Joy and Pain Year'," laughs creator Mara Brock Akil, describing 'Girlfriends'' eighth season. With costar Richard T. Jones going to Fox's midseason The Sarah Connor Chronicles, 'Girlfriends' wills send him "off to Iraq," says Akil. Also: "Maya [Golden Brooks] is having a miscarriage. Our stories all sound dramatic, but our writers are turning out some really funny material about some really challenging subjects." Less dramatic: "Lynn [Persia White]--we're putting her on this trajectory to become a rock star," says Akil. White won't be faking it either. "What's wonderful about Persia is, she's a musician. So we're actually moving Lynn's character a little closer to Persia." Just as long as the rock star emulates isn't, oh, Courtney Love... (Oct. 1)
>>>

What the fuck?! Maya's not going to have the baby? - How heartbreaking! This is going to be such a sad turn of events for Joan and Maya but it is nice to hear that Lynn will finally do something big time. I have full confidence in Mara Brock Akil's skills to turn this all around and make a great show, but daaaamn. Can't wait til the premiere on October 1st!

EXCLUSIVE: Jill Scott "My Love" Audio


The first EXCLUSIVE from Oh Hell Yes! is the audio of Jill Scott's amazing second single from The Real Thing: Words and Sounds Vol 3. "My Love" is such a great song with so much emotion. I ripped the audio myself from the video of the song that I posted a few days ago. Enjoy!

EXCLUSIVE download: Jill Scott - "My Love" (MP3 format)

And don't forget to buy the album on September 25th!

Jennifer Hudson cover song LIVE

Ever since 'Dreamgirls' hit theaters, I have been in awe of Jennifer Hudson's voice. She is really something else! Her voice has such deep power and so much soul, and here she is performing a cover of "Come Together" from Fashion Rocks 2007. She really puts her own spin on the classic song and gives a great live performance. Can't wait for her debut album of original work.

Friday, September 7, 2007

Ashlee Simpson "Murder" confirmed single


According to Geffen.com, Ashlee Simpson's newest single, available first as a ringtone on September 7th, will be called "Murder" and is the single version of the demo "Keep Me In The Dark" that I posted awhile ago... I'll be on the lookout for this ringtone online and hopefully iTunes will release it as soon as possible.

*** I don't know what the hell Geffen is going, but they suck at promoting Ashlee Simpson correctly... where is this song??

Thursday, September 6, 2007

Top 5 fights of 'Buffy'

Here's a video I found on YouTube that counts down the best fighting clips from 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer.' Enjoy!



What would your choices be?

Words & Sounds, Post 7


These two songs from the last new album (for now) from the amazing Destiny's Child, Destiny Fulfilled, are called "Free" and "Through With Love." I absolutely love these songs for their strong messages of self-love, self-assurance, and trust in God. I miss DC3 but I do love me some solo action from each of the girls.

"Free"
"Through With Love"

Take a listen and feel the empowerment.

Wednesday, September 5, 2007

"My Love" - Jill Scott 2nd single & video

Woah! Thanks to Nuccio at the Hidden Beach Family Reunion, Oh Hell Yes! has the newest music video from Jill Scott for her second single entitled "My Love"!!!!



Wow, does Jill know how to evoke some emotion or what?! Her voice is so damn powerful... can't wait for the DVD release of "The Real Thing" Deluxe Edition on September 25th.

Let me know what you think.

___

In other Jill news, a congratulations is in order: "Hate On Me" has reached the number 10 spot on the iTunes R&B/Soul store!! That's pretty damn exciting and huge... I mean, c'mon, Beyonce's "Irreplaceable" is amazing and that's at number 9. Kudos Jill!!

Monday, September 3, 2007

Live Performances from Jill Scott


OK ya'll, so every time the special concert from Jill Scott on VH1 Soul Stage comes on, I have to watch it. I am just completely drawn to this woman's soul... she is so full of passion that I simply cannot turn away from it. I just feel that God is pouring out His love to me through the beauty of Jill Scott, and I want to fully appreciate that gift and share it with ya'll. So here for download are three of Jill's performances from Soul Stage:

* The Real Thing [Live Video]
* Hate On Me [Live Video]
* Whenever You're Around [Live Video]

Enjoy!

Sunday, September 2, 2007

'Girlfriends' Pilot Episode

For your viewing pleasure, brought to you by an awesome uploader at YouTube and the Oh Hell Yes! blog, the first episode ever of Girlfriends available for viewing in one easy place. In three parts, this is the pilot episode of the show we all know and love, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the episode that is still making history as being the origin of one of the longest-running African-American sitcoms of all time. It is really unbelievable to me how much this pilot episode was such a great start for the show... I give you "Toe Sucking."







So what did you think of this groundbreaking first episode of Girlfriends?

Saturday, September 1, 2007

More news on Girlfriends S8


From TV Guide:
<<
Girlfriends

Premiere: Monday, October 1, 9 pm, CW

Where we left off: Things were looking up for all the sisterfriends: Maya (Golden Brooks) and Darnell (Khalil Kain) bought his garage back and a new home. Lynn (Persia White) finally landed a regular paying gig. And Joan (Tracee Ellis Ross)? Thank heaven above, the finicky Miss Clayton finally got engaged to schoolteacher Aaron (Richard T. Jones).

What’s next: What goes up must come down: Joan finds herself alone when her fiancĂ© is shipped to Iraq; meanwhile, Maya’s self-help books lose favor. And Lynn deals with Joan as her landlord.
>>

This is pure insanity! When Joan finally gets her man, he is shipped off the fight the war... Well, I gotta hand it to Mara, she is a very creative woman! This is a great way to put the Joan/Aaron relationship on hold for a bit without actually replacing him or killing him, which I really hope she doesn't do. The rest of the girls' stories should also be interesting - all in all, looking forward to another wonderful season!

Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Figure Review





Possibly my all-time favorite show, 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' has spawned a multitude of licensed merchandise, and my favorite of those items are the action figures. Originally produced by Moore Action Collectibles, the line was cancelled and renewed by Diamond Select Toys; DST also revived the 'Buffy' figures by creating deluxe-style action figures that are super-poseable and have interchangeable parts. This line of deluxe figures began with the most popular Slayers in Sunnydale: Buffy & Faith. The six-figure first series was stunning and really renewed the interest in some classic 'Buffy' episodes for me. Me not being as big a fan of the 'Angel' spinoff series on TV, the second series of deluxe figures from that show featuring Angel & Spike didn't interest me as much, although I did get the Vampire Spike because you cannot deny how cool these deluxe figures are. Now in its third series (and possibly final :/ ), DST has finally produced my most-wanted character: Kendra the Vampire Slayer! With just a short stint on the show as Buffy Summers' "replacement" after she kinda died at the end of the first season at the hands of the Master, Kendra showed up in Sunnydale to pick up where Buffy left off - only Buffy was revived by Xander a few minutes after her short death, still keeping her Slayer powers yet activating the next Slayer. Kendra's real death was untimely and before the second season of the show was over, Drusilla had killed Kendra, thus calling the third Slayer, Faith, who got her figure in the first series. So, long story short, the Slayer trio is now complete!!! Enjoy these pictures of the Slayers in action, and check out Time & Space Toys, Cinequest, or your local comic book store for 'Buffy' action figures.

To see the rest of my pictures for this review, visit my Photobucket album.