Musicology 101: Connecting The Dots

Jamiroquai rise above the earthly offerings of mainstream music. Fronted by lead singer Jay Kay, the band rotation has changed over the more than 20 years that the group has been together, but the consistent quality of output has remained the same. An amalgamation of soul, funk, jazz, disco, and dance music genres, Jamiroquai has developed a sound all its own that is not derivative, but more so influenced and enhanced by the individuality that the band brings to all of the aforementioned sounds. This is a perfect time to step into their vast discography and discover their artistry and influences.

Donna Summer is much more than the "Queen of Disco." She's a multiplatinum-selling singer, a successful painter, a songwriter, a mother and one of the most iconic female artists of the popular music era. Her sound, style, dynamic career and influence are revered by many current artists. From Beyonce's take on Donna's champagne glass album cover in her "Naughty Girl" video, to the touching words Queen B. wrote on her web site the day Donna Summer passed away, her influence and mourned loss were felt far and wide by contemporary artists she'd influenced. One of my closest friends, and a fellow musicologist, Kevin Williams (HUGE DONNA SUMMER FAN), will be joining me for an extended discussion on her incredible career.

Corinne Bailey Rae is an exceptional artist when it comes to blending genres and musical sensibilities across popular music, as well as music of Black origin. Is she simply just a singer-songwriter with an acoustic guitar? Or does her music translate with both traditional pop audiences as well as soul music lovers.

Little Richard is considered by many of his contemporaries as well as those who followed, as the King of Rock and Roll. In a career spanning seven decades, Little Richard managed to have four incarnations as far as being a mainstream artist as well as a celebrity and pioneer in the realm of popular music. We shall reflect on his career and accomplishments, as well as the ups and downs of being a provocateur and groundbreaking artist at a time when Blacks in popular music were shunned and short-changed in an unfair world of cultural divide.

It seems that no matter how much I think I am on top of what I should be hearing, there's always something that comes out of left field that hits me like a softball upside my hard head. This time around it was BOSCO. Do you know BOSCO? If not, then you should. Check out her bio and discography on your preferred streaming platform. A soulful, insightful and straightforward journey into thought and sound. You'll thank me later. 😁