Bob Donzella(left) and Tyrone Corbett(right) of Bo-Ty Productions with singer/songwriter Joanna Mosca.

We know that the entire GFM family had the opportunity to “Rock the Vote!” this past Tuesday. Well, we have another opportunity for you to vote this week and this time we want you to do it with Soul! That’s right the time is upon us again the annual Soul Tracks Readers’ Choice Awards and we here at GFM are so pleased to announce that our good friends from Bo-Ty Productions are nominated in two categories this year: New Artist of the Year category for their work with Anwar Robinson(“Night’s Hot” which we reviewed here.) and for Tyrone’s co-write on the song “Tell Me” from Will Downing’s album Love, Lust and Lies which is nominated for major label album of the year. (more…)

Before I weigh-in please watch the clip, if you have not already seen it.

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(AP Photo/Matt Sayles)

I’m not a big fan of the award shows, so The 2010 Grammy Awards came and went without much interest from me. While I was excited for the numerous ‘indie’ artists that were nominated, I was also cautiously optimistic that any of them would win. Understanding the nature of the industry, the politics, NARAS and who actually votes…. the results were, well.. predictable.

Anyway, congratulations to all of the winners and look for The Foreign Exchange, Lalah Hathaway, Eric Roberson et. al to do big things in 2010 and be back… with some hardware. The highlight of the night (from the little I did see), aside from the Michael Jackson tribute, was Pink’s performance. Incredible. Yes, it was similar to an awards show performance from last year, but who cares? Nobody complains when your favorite non-singing singer, ‘sings’ the same tired song, in one position, off key with absolutely no stage presence. No names required.
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For those still wondering about the Foreign Exchange and their story, here it is, in their own words. Congratulations once again to The Foreign Exchange.

Related Post: Congratulations to 2010 Grammy Nominees

Could it be? The 52nd annual Grammy Awards nominees have been released and you can view the entire list here.

Of course the usual suspects were well represented: Beyonce (10), Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga etc. etc. However, there were a few (welcome) surprises including, but not limited to many that we’ve featured this year: Maxwell, Ledisi, Robert Glasper, Melanie Fiona, Eric Roberson, Lalah Hathaway and more.

But the one that had us the most excited was The Foreign Exchange!  You know by know that we ride hard for FE and everything that their camp produces. It’s especially rewarding when great people, who happen to be great artists… that make great music… on their OWN terms are recognized. They are nominated for their lead single “Daykeeper” f/Muhsinah (in the ”Best Urban/Alternative Performance” category) off their must have sophomore album, Leave It All Behind. Not that they need a Grammy to validate their talents, but I’m sure it feels good to finally get some well deserved recognition.

Congratulations and good luck to all of the nominees from GFM. Check out the twitter reaction from Nicolay himself:
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A few weeks ago, GFM had the privilege of attending the opening of the National Museum of Patriotism, where Kenny Gamble and Patti Labelle were being honored. They were awarded the museum’s elite honor, the Patriot Award, which is bestowed upon patriots that commit to making the U.S.A. a better place.

In addition to their musical contributions over the years, they were also recognized for their tremendous efforts in giving back to the community through various outreach programs. Other honorees included Lee Greenwood, Country Music Ambassadors — Cowboy Crush and Access Hollywood.

Kenny Gamble produced the song, “I Am An American“, and requested his childhood friend, Patti Labelle to perform it along with the Temple University choir and orchestra. The song was adopted by the late U.S. spiritual leader, Father Divine and his International Peace Mission Movement and was also presented to President Barack Obama during inaugural festivities.

The museum itself is a spectacular tribute to the American spirit. In addition to the Patriotism in Entertainment and Music Exhibit, they also feature examples of patriotism in government, science, volunteerism, military, business, community service and education.

It’s located right across the street from the Georgia Aquarium, so be sure to check it out the next time you’re in Atlanta.

Special thanks to Gena and the entire staff of the museum for showing us love.

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