Music, My Life & More Blog

The Smokers Church meets Jesse Jackson Theory ... TSC(RJR)

6/11/2018

Hmmm I released another tune and energetically, it was already a challenge. Three plus years ago I shadowed a very talented Chicago based producer. Needless to say, I was once again met with the challenge of battling the insecurities of men. Isn't it always that way, when you peek behind the curtain? There are tons of tiny frail men trying to run big machines, alone. Anyway, after that brief understudy, I decided to tuck the one and only tune that I started working on with HIS musician away, until June 1st of this year. (hehe you nosies can get to work now) I pulled the session, a month back, changed the name and some of the drums / arranged it. The Smokers Church. is available for your referencing NOW....

Then there's what happened after, the original was mixed and mastered by my jedi
Pap Spencer and I (guess I can give myself a little credit). (libra humbleness) We had a powwow and Pap pulls out a copy of “The Country Preacher". A Jesse Jackson album full of speeches. He randomly selects the first speech on the album and it struck me. It resonated so hard, that we mixed and mastered it 4 times to improve the sound quality. I searched for a digital copy of this album and even desperately sought to rip the speech from youtube, to increase the quality of sound, to know avail. Of course, I have a theory brewing because when It's played via smart phone, the sound quality of the speech regardless to copy ends up distorted.

To make matters even more interesting, I had a conversation last night with Douglas Kerr (aka DJ P'nut). He's had his FB live sessions muted when playing Jesse Jackson speeches..

So regardless to how it sounds on your mobile devices, this version is worthy of owning and playing, as it speaks to a period when we could "trust" him. His message was loud and clear and as inspiring now as it was in the 70's. Take it for a drive...

Expect the Unexpected...

5/29/2018

The uproar only simmered, when they initially announced the line up for The Chicago House Music Festival. I looked at it and can't say my thoughts weren't similar to resounding posts on FB. Why Louie and the other out of towners? I understand business and the need to draw a grander interest, though. As other djs who play and love the genre, I felt a little flinch. I was quickly reminded of the reasons WHY I wouldn't be a consideration and reminded myself that my work creates the opps that are FOR me. When and if it's time it will happen. I continued to focus on my work. Little did I know, they would add a 4th area to draw people to the park grill restaurant.

I received a inquiry from one of the programmers for the event and here I am... Giving thanks to God and the universe, in addition to those who joined me to create the vibe for my set.

The people quickly made their way to the area to move, release and add the perfect energy.

Once again throwing caution to the wind and getting uncomfy paid off.

I share these words to inspire those to continue to work towards the things that make you happy. Stretch out and market yourself differently and consistently. Be patient and allow the universe to deliver. #thelawofattraction

Nile Rodgers & Booze and Boogie

3/14/2018

If you have any understanding of the influences that created the structure hip hop is built upon, you have no reason to dispute why Nile Rodgers deserves honor and praise. The first commercially successful hip hop tune jacked his groups song entirely. Because hip hop is such a driving force for pop culture it has to be mentioned, though Niles' body of work far out reaches the one lane, we find ourselves confined to in current hip hop. With the click of a mouse or tap of screen, you can easily enter the state of awe by the universe Nile has built, in his work. Even with few twists in his life, including drugs and more importantly his triumphant victory with cancer, Nile is a true example of a JEDI MASTER in the flesh. I am grateful to have him still with us and rocking hard and strong. One of the many reasons why I love disco, soul and funk are based on what this jedi master continues to contribute to the culture of music AND technology. On March 26th we salute the LIVING LEGEND, Nile Rodgers.

Pardon My Desk

2/13/2018

I toggle between these two spaces often. Between defeating my own lack of confidence, I find the courage not only to continue to promote my endeavors, but also encourage those looking to pursue theirs. These are not easy tasks. We are all faced with challenges that could easily prevent us for wanting to continue. But then there is love.

Today I found out one of my nights had not only garnered a liquor sponsor, but an increase in the budget. I share this update with you, simply to say, a little consistency and focus can create opportunities, that may have looked like dead ends .Close your eyes and imagine, then open them and create a way. #Boozeandboogie is held at The Charleston 2076 N. Hoyne, Chicago, the last monday of the month 2/26.

DON'T MISS THE TWO

2/12/2018

Everyone is grandstanding for impressions. I no longer care whether you think I'm dope, capable, cute, old, done or dumb. We put far more energy than ever before into collecting people and competing for no more than a like. And one has to ask what does it lead to? Me spending more time sitting and nursing you into likeability, when I have work to do!? This isn't to suggest that you don't use social media, but that wait to SEE who approves will kill your dreams. Drop and go. Keep going. Maybe I'm speaking to myself, I have no problem with that. Someone is fueling your need to be validated, by people who have no control over your destiny. If you linger too long you'll end up missing the two beings who do... YOU AND YOUR GOD!

#newmusic coming soon #tistheseason #chicagomusic

9/27/2017

Tis libra season and time is high to get productive and proactive. In line with this effort I have a few collaborative projects I am really excited about...

Chicago creates soul, of course Fathom Dj and Boogie Nite understand this. Merging the influences of funk, soul, disco and soulful house, Boogie takes Fathoms beats and slams multi instrumentation on top. Friday Nite Africa will grab the ears of the music collector and dance floor junkie alike. Coming soon to digital sources....

Sample Friday Night Africa

What happens when 2 Chicago dj / producers collide? Soulful tunes that speak to the history of Chicago music and most certainly Chicago House Music. Fathom Dj and Boogie Nite are feverish about setting new precedences and Vibez & Vibez & Vibez does just that! Coming soon to digital outlets near you….

sample Vibez & Vibez & vibez

Once again Fathom Dj combines forces with Discopoet Khari B, Shawn Wallace and this time singer songwriter Lady J (Jocelyn Winston), Junius Paul on Bass and Fred jackson on flute, to create a danceable duet about chancing on love in the club. Chicago soulful house music at it's finest. Coming soon to digital sources ....

sample When we met

SAMPLE WHEN WE MET (SPACETONIC FLUTE MIX)

Fathom Dj along with her creative comrades Discopoet Khari B, Shawn Wallace AND Avery R. Young, push the narrative of Chicago Music a bit further. This busty anthem touches Chicago's spoken word, blues, soul, gospel and most certainly house music roots. Coming soon to online sources near you... I AM!

A Special #BoozeandBoogie Session

9/27/2017

.Anyone who has had a conversation with me knows how I feel about facebook and what I call "the birthday parade".
One of the many things that annoys me is those who parade around social media begging for attention, based on the fact that it's their bday. Not only did I make the decision to hide my bday, but vowed to not celebrate it publicly. After getting down to the week before my bday, I decided to invite a few friends, colleagues and family to The Charleston, for what ended up being more than a simple drink.:) I curated a playlist specifically of my favorite artists, disco edits and such. Feel free to take the journey to youtube or spotify and listen to the #BoozeandBoogie playlist.
Thanks to Sarah, Sol and those who joined us, for what became an official birthday party for me. I'm still smiling based on the surprise that started with a simple invite for 1 drink!
Consider joining us 10/30 for another #BoozeAndBoogie session for #scorpioseason!!

#BOOZE & BOOGIE AUG. SESSION

8/30/2017

Monday a patron (aa) sat and pretty much rocked with us all night. Towards the end of my set he asked, do you play this great music at the black venues you spin regularly? My reply I try. We both sighed of embarrassment. #whichboxareYOUin #didYOUbuildit #ordoYOUmaintainit? #boozeandboogie

I am committed to creating a space where i can be free musically. Where people don't make request and allow the dj to navigate the experience....

I've updated the playlist on youtube so you get an idea of where the journey goes when i lead...

www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6wMpgDpeCKVoqq4yvR70_E2P8qGJdKLm

#BOOZEANDBOOGIE7.31.17PLAYLIST

8/1/2017

In Chicago SOME folk need to be sold on what they are getting before they show up (social media whoas).
Last night we had another booze and boogie session. After getting quite a few compliments on the selections, I decided to start publishing a playlist of the tunes here that I run (per event) and on youtube.

Uncle Sam (Original Mix) Jet
Negro Muzic Glenn Underground
All Is Full Of Love (Miquifaye Vocal) Anthony Nicholson & Jaidene Veda
Come Into My House Queen Latifah
Get Your Money will.i.am
Weekend Phreek
Kissing Strangers (Ralf Gum & Crisp Original Club Mix) Ralf Gum feat. Monique Bingham
Lovebeat SUMO
Can You Feel It (Original Afro Samba Mix) Carlos Francisco
Beat Goes On Ripple
Queixme (MAW - kuts mix) Tom & Joyce
Beng Beng Beng Femi Kuti
Talk to Me Third World
I Can't Get No Sleep Tonight (Original) Monodeluxe
Get On Up, Get On Down Roy Ayers
Voices Inside My Head (Roger Sanchez Mix) Police
swimming places Julien Jabre
Do You Have It (Maurice Joshua Remix) DJ Spen, LeRoyal, Maurice Joshua
I'm ready---kano
Your Ways The Jacksons
Numbers Kraftwerk
Glamorous Life Shela E
It Must Be Magic Teena Marie
Am I Wrong (feat. ScHoolboy Q) [Explicit] Anderson Paak
It Seems To Hang On Ashford & Simpson
Get Lucky (Clean) Daft Punk ft Pharrell Williams
Restart Bilal
Hold On (feat. Sampha) Sbtrkt
Until The Dawn (Milk And Honey Pt. 2) The Foreign Exchange
Take Me To My Love (Ralf GUM Main Mix) Ralf GUM feat Monique Bingham
Jimmy go n=boom james brown rmx
The Trumpeter (Original) - 4A Ray Foxx
Never Figure Out (Stimming Remix) Rasmus Faber feat. Emily McEwan
In My Heart (Original Mix) Sean Ali, Munk Julious, Rona Ray
Lettin' Go! Janelle Monáe
Baby Gets High Peter Brown
Burnin' Up Imagination
Afro Jump (Afro-Jump-Uptown Remix) Solodinjgo
Walk Right Now Jacksons
I Kendrick Lamar
American Boy (118 bpm)INTRO - 8A Estelle & Kanye West
Beat Goes On (feat. Kanye West) Madonna
Dirty Low Down Boz Skaggs
Do I Do Stevie Wonder
Jamiroquai - Blow Your Mind (FFS & JRG Rework)
Hey Love Quadron
Lite Spots KAYTRANADA
it's the falling in love (mikeandtess edit) Michael Jackson
Chameleon [Unmixed] Pregunta
Funky Nassau (Part 1) The Beginning Of The End
Erykah Badu - (one) 20ft Tall (De Spice Rub) - Uncle D
CONVERTION - LETS DO IT (KRYSTAL KLEAR NY MIX)
Apache Sugarhill Gang
Treat'em Right Chubb Rock
A Roller Skating Jam Named "Saturdays" (Disco Fever Mix) De La Soul
Superstarr Pt. Zero K-OS
Blame it on the boogie The Jacksons Liquid Spirit Gregory Porter
The Spinners - Its a Shame (The Groove Supplier Remix)
Call The Law Outkast Feat. Janelle Monáe
We Trying To Stay Alive – Clean
DAngelo - Betray My Heart (Chillhop Edit)
Free Your Dreams Chantae Cann
Open Your Eyes, You Can Fly Lizz Wright

Of course the goal is to get you to come and join us on the last monday of the month, which is 8.28.17 at The Charleston 2076 N Hoyne Chi 9p.

#MUSICMONDAY A Few of My Favorites ..Who Sing...

5/22/2017

Yes, I don't really care to socialize electronically much. I prefer to look folk in their faces physically. The issue with this is most folk are in public gazing in their fons. I too struggle.(lbs)

This past weekend my long time friend Patrick and I took to the road, as he assisted me in providing the soundtrack for another wedding ceremony (all love). On our way home I played one of my current mixes for him and turned him onto a few new songs and artists. I just wanted to give you a bit of background for the inspiration to this post...

No they are not in order, but we will start off with one who I've followed for a few decades...

I don't have to explain it really. When I hear her voice and lyrics I don't simply hear moniquebingham.com/ in her current "genre", which is soulful house. I hear HER BLUES, wrapped in soul and jazz, made danceable to a four on the floor kick. I am now a lifelong fan. #endofstory

I really don't care what you think about any of my picks for some of MY favorites.

This next cat has been labeled a bit of everything, from gay to crazy. And though few give him the title of genius, I'm certain that he is... Another genre bender Bilal is not confined by eras or sounds from rock to jazz opera to soul, just to name a few. I hear my mother's music and the future, free and uncensored by the confines of pop/hip hop.(who knew american music would ever associate these two so closely #wateradded)

I might be cheating by putting these two together. I just saw a video to the remake of one of my lifelong favorite songs by Roberta Flack and Donnie Hathaway.
I can't recall when I first heard Tony Momrelle, but I'm certain it was based on some house tune he was featured on or in association with incognito. Of course I thought of Stevie and the other soulful greats easily categorized under #mymamasmusic. Yes TONY has been dope and combining him with the lovely sweet vocals of MS. Chantae Cann makes for a fresh and fun remake that still fits nicely under many categories, including disco, funk and most certainly SOUL. Back Together Again...

Thanks to Sean Ali and Sounds of Ali for the intro to the beasty Rona Ray. Every time I play the song Patrick asks the same question... "who is that!?, then he goes on to talk about her sounding like India Irie and Mariah Carey. Thank god they are both great compliments to Rona Rays credits. I have yet to venture further into her catalog as I know it's wider than soulful house. I am living for what she has done with these two Chicago underground producers and looking forward to more.

I know your attention span can't take much more so, upon occasion I'll pop up and add a few more of my entries of my all time and current favorites. Be glad, maybe I've spared you and your wallets, that is if you decide to PURCHASE music. #seehowispunthat :)

fathom spits

when i come to the jam
know who i am
aint bout the flim flam
no i dont give a damn
about where you been
or what you rocking
when the tunes hit
we'll see whats popping
not stopping
though i did slow up
to be more precise
and detailed
catch a close up
or maybe get a glimpse
nobodies hoe
but the game got pimps
i stay exempt
and stand in the light
fame got glimmer
but my glow just right

Archives

June 2018
May 2018
March 2018
February 2018
September 2017
August 2017
May 2017
April 2017
March 2017
February 2017
January 2017

Categories