DJ Phaze mellows out on this one and brings you a quiet storm mix, GFM style. Check the playlist, download and feel free to share. And, if you enjoy it, hit Phaze up and let him know!

Tracklist:
The Secret Garden – Quincy Jones, Barry White, James Ingram, El DeBarge, Al B. Sure
Adore – Prince
For Your Love – Stevie Wonder
Love T.K.O – Teddy Pendergrass
The Lady In My Life – Michael Jackson
Summer Breeze – Isley Brothers
Groove With You – The Isley Brothers
Computer Love – Zapp and Roger
This Is For The Lover In You – Shalamar
Wishing On A Star – Rose Royce
Cherish – Kool & The Gang
A House is not a Home – Luther Vandross
Tonight, I Celebrate My Love – Peabo Bryson & Roberta Flack
Turn off the lights – Teddy Pendergrass
The Closer I Get To You – Roberta Flack & Pebo Bryson
Reasons – Earth, Wind & Fire

GFM: The Cool Out by GrownFolksMusic

This is a celebration of the music of the Quincy Jones we know and love. Special shout out to Craig G. for blessing us with some heat and insight over top of a Quincy classic. DJ Phaze is on the mix and we hope you enjoy. You can download the mix by pressing the arrow button on the right side of the player.

The reason why we are doing this is because we hold the music of Quincy Jones in such a high regard. For more info on the upcoming project and a listing of the artists that will be featured go here. Also, after the jump take a listen to a clip of the updated version of “Secret Garden”. Some secrets you should keep to yourself.

We Want The Dude Back Vol. 1 by GrownFolksMusic

1. “Intro”
2. “GFM for Q” – Craig G
3. “Give Me The Night” – George Benson
4. “Rock With You” – Michael Jackson
5. “Yah Mo Be There” – Michael McDonald ft. James Ingram
6. “I’ll Be Good To You” – Quincy Jones ft. Ray Charles
7. “Body Heat” – Quincy Jones ft. Leon Ware, Bruce Fisher
8. “One Hundred Ways” – James Ingram
9. “Human Nature” – Michael Jackson
10. “If I Ever Lose This Heaven” – Quincy Jones
11. “Samba De Una Nota So” – Quincy Jones & His Orchestra
12. “The Streetbeater” – Quincy Jones (Sanford and Son Theme)
13. “Ease On Down The Road #1” – Quincy Jones (The Wiz)
14. “Stuff Like That” – Quincy Jones
15. “Stomp” – The Brothers Johnson
16. “Off The Wall” – Michael Jackson
17. “Funk Outta My Face – Brothers Johnson
18. “Liberian Girl” – Michael Jackson
19. “Baby, Come To Me” – Patti Austin ft. James Ingram
20. “Tomorrow” – Tevin Campbell
21. “Summer In The City” – Quincy Jones
22. “Soul Bossa Nova” – Quincy Jones & His Orchestra
23. “Killer Joe” – Quincy Jones & His Orchestra
24. “Ai No Corrida” – Quincy Jones & His Orchestra
25. “Miss Celie’s Blues” – Quincy Jones
26. “The Secret Garden” – Barry White, James Ingram, El DeBarge, Al B. Sure
27. “The Lady in My Life” – Michael Jackson
28. “Moody’s Mood For Love” – Quincy Jones ft. Brian McKinght
29. “Reunion/Finale” – Quincy Jones (Colour Purple)
30. Outro

Find more videos like this on Grown Folks Music

Oy!

Vey! Disclaimer: Q did not have anything to do with this production, but I can already imagine what “Strawberry Letter 23″ is going to sound like by this clip.

Mr. Quincy Jones
3800 Barham Blvd., Ste. 503,
Los Angeles, CA 90068, United States

March 17, 2010

Mr. Jones,

This letter could not come from a place of more love and admiration. For as long as I can remember your music has provided part (a major part) of the soundtrack of my life. As a toddler I learned how to discern the different instruments of a song by listening to “The Streetbeater” every Friday night. As a preschooler I was enamored and intrigued with the sound and look of those great records for A&M. Honestly, I really believe before I could read, I could recognize the A&M logo and Quincy Jones. Then came elementary school and middle school with “Off The Wall”, “The Dude” and “Thriller”. “We Are The World” found me moving into full-fledged teenagedom and by the time “Bad” was released I thought I was ready to face the world after high school. “Back On The Block” I thought I was grown. “Q’s Jook Joint” I really thought I was grown. At some point I got wise and realized that everyday I’m still growing, always something new.

At some point I made the decision (or someone made the decision for me)to pick up an instrument. Along that journey I discovered more of your work than I could have ever found left to my own resources. Dots began to connect for me in ways I couldn’t have imagined. The same Quincy Jones of my youth worked with these titans of music that I now study in academia? Film Scores? Nadia Boulanger? Really? How? Then I realized something through your example: It’s just music. The combination of Bb,D, and F gives you the same result no matter what genre of music you play. Mr. Jones you are the living embodiment of that concept for me because you have created all kinds of music, because you understand that at the end of the day, it’s just music. That’s a sign of a master of his craft.

You represent for me one of the greatest generations of musicians that this world has ever known. The fact that you have participated in the music industry at the highest level for sixty years is not lost on us mere mortals. Which is why as of late I have been given pause, and this is truly the impetus for this letter.

This is not a nostalgia piece. I believe in always pushing the music forward, it’s very easy to go back and do what you’ve done because there is a certain amount of security there. Where my head and heart reside is in a place where I see some incongruencies and inconsistencies. If we wanted to take the math analogy a little further: If Quincy Jones=Music(which he does) then why are some of the variables in the equation not equal to music thus it would follow that the product…this has nothing to do with style, genre or otherwise. This has to do with artists being great enough to be in your presence and on your recording. In other words, I have no idea what the process was for choosing who appeared on “We Are The World 25″ or the new Q:Soul Bossa Nostra but some of the players just should not have made the cut. Why? Because quite frankly mentioning some of the names and Quincy Jones in the same sentence does not even sound grammatically correct.

Mr. Jones your name has come to represent a lot of things for a lot of people. First and foremost your name represents the platinum standard in music. Not the platinum standard because of sales(although you’ve sold lots of them) platinum in the sense that your music has always represented a level of musical greatness, not just popularity. Your recordings have introduced us to some of the greatest performers and writers of any generation. We always knew with a Quincy Jones recording there would be something, someone that would be heading very soon to the next level. The alumni from your recordings are the music industry in my mind. But maybe herein somewhere lies the problem. Industry.

No, I’m not one of these the “Industry is evil” acolytes. I’ve seen enough evil in my life in many quarters to realize the music industry has not cornered the market on evil. I also realize that sometimes when you’re the guest of honor(as in this tribute album)you don’t get to prepare the menu(I’ve been a victim of that myself). But one thing is for certain Mr. Jones, you are a hero to me and millions around the world. People can be very protective of their heroes and when something or someone infringes upon the very fiber of what that hero represents there’s bound to be an outcry. Seriously, some of these acts are musical kyrptonite, Superman.

In closing I would like to provide this quote which since the first time I ever heard it I can not tell you how many times I’ve repeated it. A wise man once said: “If you put a piano and a stack of money in the same room, they won’t talk to each other, because one has nothing to do with the other.” I believe you know whom that very sage advice came from. Whatever room you’re in Mr. Jones it may be too crowded with industry people. I’d like to fill your room full of the love, admiration and respect that your legacy deserves. That comes from us folks who are a little off the beaten path: music people.

Sincerely,

An Entire Generation

Update: If you would like to sign our petition to “Bring the Dude Back” you can do so by going here.

Secret Garden from the "Back On The Block" album

Last week was quite the week for the remix. While I’m an advocate of creativity and stamping your own individuality to a song, I do have boundaries when it comes to certain songs. The other week I was glad to see artists coming together for the relief efforts in Haiti however the remake of “We Are the World” shouldn’t have been the song they rallied behind. I can’t say the remix didn’t have “any” hopeful moments but honestly the bad faded out the good efforts. I, like many fans, probably agree with Jay’s statement given to MTV about the remake efforts.

“I’m a fan of music. I know the plight and everything that’s going on in Haiti. … So I appreciate the efforts and everything, but We Are the World is [musically] untouchable like Thriller is untouchable.  It was a valiant effort, but for me, it’s gonna be untouchable.”

Truthfully, there are some songs that just have a magic. Maybe the stars are perfectly aligned or Jupiter just happens to rise in Leo’s moon – hell, I don’t know, but they have a timeless, “Sistine Chapel” appeal to them. In this case, “We Are The World” happens to be one of those songs. Unfortunately, when you touch a song of that caliber, it can lose the magic and take an awful turn as we saw in that remake. Another song that’s been placed on the assembly line for a “spit shine” remix is Quincy Jones’ “Secret Garden”(see video on linked post). Now, when I heard this I was deeply troubled especially when I heard the artists they’re considering on the single. The artists that would replace Al B. Sure, El Debarge, and James Ingram would be Usher, Robin Thicke, Tyrese, and Trey Songz – Barry White will remain as the “Micheal Jackson” piece of the song. While I was cool with Robin Thicke, I didn’t understand why Maxwell wasn’t even included in the conversation!? It also amazed me that Barry White’s vocals are seen as “untouchable” but the idea of remaking the song isn’t seen in the same light. Now between the passing of Michael, the desecration of “We Are the World” and now possibly “Secret Garden”, I wonder if the “Musical Antichrist” is near. When it’s all said and done, I have to wonder what happens to the musical integrity of songs when more interest is in the amount of star power than the amount of your musical maturity and emotional depth in a song. In all truth, you can be a great star and not have musical maturity. Now, I’m not saying star power doesn’t hold any importance or the artists chosen have “no” talent. They are all successful in their own right. I just question whether they can humble themselves to respect the spirit of the song. Will they approach the song with the mindset of a “musician” or as a “star”? Will they see this as an opportunity to grow as a musician or just an opportunity to promote their star? This is the question that haunts me when popular artists of the moment are chosen for certain classics that require some range. It’s like giving an acting role of a complex character to someone who has box office appeal but can’t reach the emotional depth the role requires. Also, you have to consider whether the co-starring artists can rightly play against the pillar role, Barry White. So with all that said, what do you think? Do you think this song should be remade? Holla at ya girl.

And to the new artists being considered for the “Secret Garden” remake, please take a loooong, hard look at this decision. Don’t take it lightly and pleeeeeese don’t let this be you……… :)

In this season of love I think it is more than appropriate to honor the birthday of one of the greatest love song singers of all time with his signature song (which happens to be one of the greatest love songs of all time). How often does that happen? Thank you Mr. Ingram for all the music, and here’s wishing you a very happy birthday!

I was reminded this morning when I pulled up this clip of how far we’ve gone in another direction musically. Nothing trumps a great melody, story and performance. Nothing. The other critical element in this drama is a cast is the cast of players. Unless we reach a point where we understand that people/personalities far surpass any technological convenience, we will keep having these same somewhat well-worn conversations.

Courtesy of clipartspace.com

Hola mi amigos!!!! Once again, it’s that special time of the year!! A time for lovers to come together to celebrate that funny little thing we call L’ amour. In celebration of this “unofficial” holiday, I decided to share some Grown Folks love songs. Now, please understand these songs are not in any particular order nor do they encompass all I would like to share – we’d be here forever if it did. However, they’re just a few songs to make you think about the one you love or wish to be with. :)

Can You Stand The Rain – Written by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, this signature hit is an enduring song. It’s a effortless song that simply ask “can you weather the storm” when the good times turn grey? It’s a relationship song every couple can relate to and will continue to connect with for generations. Also, you know these dudes looked sharp in them suits and hats.

Making Love In The Rain- This is such a sexy song. Between Herb Alpert’s smooth trumpet, Lisa Keith’s lead vocals and Janet Jackson backgrounds, in the words of Gabrielle Union, this song “makes sexy jealous”. It can create an imagery of rain against a city skyline, satin sheets, and a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon. If you’re not careful you might be in a scene from “9 1/2 Weeks” with this song.

SECRET GARDEN QUINCY JONES BARRY WHITE
Uploaded by masterfunk. – Explore more music videos.

Secret Garden-  I know ya’ll probably added to the human population with this song. How could you really go wrong with crooners Barry White, Al B. Sure, James Ingram and El Debarge asking you to seductively reveal your “secret garden”?!?! What makes this song so beautiful is Quincy Jones’ classic R&B production and the metaphor of the “Secret Garden”. It’s not something blurted out but it definitely implies with a classy sophistication only “Q” could give.

Spend The Night- When Angela Winbush and Ron Isley were together, they made some great music. But then again, Angela made some good music with Rene too. Anyway this flirtatious song bids a simple invitation to spend the night. An invitation that could be hard to turn down. Sing it Mr. Biggs!!!!

Hey Lover- I had to put a hip hop cut in the mix. Gotta give the list some variety. Why do I love this cut? It’s simple. Michael Jackson’s “Lady In My Life” cut, Boyz II Men’s harmony and LL’s lips. They are so kissable. Oh and the song is sexy too!!! :)

How Do You Keep The Music Playing - this is such a real song.  The subject matter is incredibly truthful when it ask “how do you lose yourself to someone and never lose your way”. The musical chemistry of James Ingram and Pattie Austin is so magical which is further heightened by Johnny Mandel, David Foster and Quincy Jones’ incredible arrangement of the song.  This song will always be a relevant song. A wonderful love song.

Well, that’s it for my love list. Like I said, I’d love to share more but we’d be here all day. Plus, I wanted to share some songs that don’t always get attention this time of year. To all my GFM family………HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!!!! Or in the words of Mr. Cupid Valentino……..

Credits

“Can You Stand The Rain” – Song written by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis performed by New Edition courtesy of MCA/Geffen Records

“Making Love In the Rain” – Song written by Herb Alpert performed by Herb Alpert, Lisa Keith and Janet Jackson courtesy of Rondor Music/Universal Music Group

“Secret Garden” – Song written by Quincy Jones performed by Barry White, Al B. Sure, James Ingram and El’ Debarge courtesy of Warner Brothers Records

“Spend The Night” – Song written by The Isley Brothers performed by The Isley Brothers and Angela Winbush courtesy of WEA/Warner Brothers Records

“Hey Lover” – Song written by LL Cool J and Rod Temperton;sample from “Lady In My Life”; performed by LL Cool J and Boyz II Men courtesy of Def Jam Records

“How Do You Keep The Music Playing” – Song written by Alan Bergman, Marilyn Bergman and Michael Legrand performed by James Ingram and Pattie Austin courtesy of Qwest Records; video by Bigbankx

“Happy Valentine’s Day” – Song written and performed by Andre Benjamin courtesy of Arista/BMG; video by Chris Walker

Beautiful song from James Ingram from his gospel album, Stand (In The Light), (Intering/2008). For all my fathers out there — check the lyrics!

The song is a tribute to his father who passed in 2002, who instilled in him the legacy of faith and the determination to ‘never let go‘ of God’s word.

There’s a live performance and great interview after the jump, where he discusses his faith, family and the story behind the recording of the hit song, “Yah Mo B There“. He’s been married for 35 years (35 years?!?!) and has six children. For those wondering “why a gospel album?”, here’s what he had to say:

With the release of Stand (In the Light), people have asked James, ‘if he has had a life of faith his whole life, why just make a Gospel album now? James replies that he has been writing Gospel since the early 1980s. His top hit Yah Mo B There is a song that he wrote to worship God in his own way. He wanted to praise God by His Hebrew name, but shortened it “Yah” and wanted to use modern day language. Yah Mo B There, his hit with Michael McDonald, was the most played song in 1984.

Throughout the years, James’ faith and knowledge of the Bible has grown. Earlier in his life, James says he was trying to get an understanding of the Bible. Now, he is trying to get an “overstanding.” In other words, he’s learned that there is a deeper knowledge of God than we think.”

 

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“Don’t Let Go” (Live on CBN)

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Interview on CBN

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As we wait for her long overdue, live album and DVD (rumored), here’s a few videos to hold you over. Tamia, whose last album, Between Friends (2006) was released independently via Image Entertainment, also beautifully performed the Canadian anthem, “O Canada” last week at the NBA All Star Game. You can check it out after the jump.

“Stranger In My House” (Shep Crawford, Shae Jones) A Nu Day (Elektra/Asylum/2000).

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“Tomorrow” (Live)

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“How do you keep the music playing?” James Ingram & Tamia

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“O Canada” (Live at the 2009 NBA All Star Game)

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Tamia discusses her life and the importance of family. You can view other parts of the series at TamiaFans.net.

Real life Divas: Tamia Part IV

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The one that started it all.
“You Put A Move On My Heart” (Rod Temperton), Tamia/Q’s Jook Joint, (Qwest/Warner Brothers/1998).

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Live at Quincy Jones Celebration

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