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D’Angelo’s Neo-Soul Masterpiece, ‘Brown Sugar,’ Remastered and Expanded for New Deluxe Edition

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D’Angelo’s platinum-certified debut, 1995’s neo-soul masterpiece Brown Sugar, is newly remastered and expanded for a 2CD and digital Deluxe Edition to be released August 25 by Virgin/UMe. Remastered by GRAMMY-winning engineer Russell Elevado, Brown Sugar’s Deluxe Edition adds 21 rare tracks, including remixes by CJ Mackintosh, Dallas Austin, King Tech, Erick Sermon and Incognito, as well as instrumentals and a cappella versions. Of the 21 newly added tracks, 15 were previously available only on vinyl and seven will make their commercial release debuts on the new edition.

Brown Sugar’s 2CD Deluxe Edition is presented in a digipak with a 20-page booklet featuring an essay by noted author and filmmaker Nelson George, rare photographs, and lyrics for the album’s 10 original tracks.

Released July 4, 1995, D’Angelo’s Brown Sugar album heralded a new direction for soul music, bridging tradition and innovation. D’Angelo, then 21 years old, wrote, arranged, performed and produced most of the album himself, inspired by classic jazz, gospel, soul, and hip-hop and using a mix of vintage and new equipment to realize his creative vision.

In the Deluxe Edition booklet, D’Angelo’s Brown Sugar co-producer Bob Power writes: “D was one of those artists that came not just fully formed, but truly genre-bending; genre-creating is really more like it.”

D’Angelo’s Brown Sugar collaborators also included A Tribe Called Quest’s Ali Shaheed Muhammad for the title track and Raphael Saadiq for “Lady.” The first album to be dubbed “neo-soul,” Brown Sugar spent 65 weeks on the Billboard 200 albums chart and drew praise from music critics around the world. In his four-star album review for Rolling Stone, Cheo Hodari Coker wrote, “Brown Sugar is a reminder of where R&B has been and, if the genre is to resurrect its creative relevance like a phoenix rising from the ashes, where it needs to go.”

“Young D’Angelo was duly anointed the new musical messiah, charged with leading the culture into a new promised land,” writes Nelson George in his Deluxe Edition essay.

Brown Sugar received four GRAMMY Award nominations. The groundbreaking album is featured in Mojo’s list of 100 Modern Classics and in Rolling Stone’s Essential Recordings of the ’90s.

D’Angelo: Brown Sugar (Deluxe Edition) [2CD, digital]

CD 1 (Remastered album, plus bonus tracks)
1. Brown Sugar
2. Alright
3. Jonz In My Bonz
4. Me And Those Dreamin’ Eyes Of Mine
5. Sh*t, Damn, Motherf*cker
6. Smooth
7. Cruisin’
8. When We Get By
9. Lady
10. Higher
Bonus Tracks
11. Brown Sugar A Cappella (released on 12″ single)
12. Me And Those Dreamin’ Eyes Of Mine A Cappella (released on promotional 12″ single)
13. Brown Sugar Instrumental (released on 12″ single)
14. Lady Just Tha Beat Mix Instrumental w/Chorus (Mixed by DJ Premier; released on CD Maxi-Single)
15. Brown Sugar Alternate Version (released on 12″ single)

CD 2 (More Sugar)
1. Brown Sugar King Tech Remix feat. Kool G. Rap (released on 12″ promotional single)
2. Me And Those Dreamin’ Eyes Of Mine Def Squad Remix feat. Redman (Remixed by Erick Sermon for Funk Lord Productions; released on 12″ single)
3. Cruisin’ Cut The Sax Remix (Remix by King Tech; Released on 12″ single)
4. Lady Just Tha Beat Mix/featuring AZ (Remixed by DJ Premier for Works of Mart Productions, Inc.; released on CD Maxi-Single)
5. Brown Sugar Soul Inside 808 Mix (Mix by DJ Dodge; released on U.K. 12″ single)
6. Me And Those Dreamin’ Eyes Of Mine Two Way Street Mix (Remixed by DJ Premier for Works of Mart Productions, Inc.; released on promotional 12″ single)
7. Cruisin’ Dallas Austin Remix (released on 12″ single)
8. Lady 2B3 Shake Dat Ass Mix (Remix produced by Neville Thomas and Pule Pheto for 2B3 Productions; released on U.K. CD Maxi-Single)
9. Brown Sugar Incognito Molasses Remix (released on “She’s Always In My Hair” promotional 12″ single)
10. Me And Those Dreamin’ Eyes Of Mine Dreamy Remix (Remixed by Erick Sermon for Funk Lord Productions; released on promotional 12″ single)
11. Cruisin’ Wet Remix (released on CD single)
12. Brown Sugar Dollar Bag Mix (released on U.K. 12″ single)
13. Cruisin’ God Made Me Funky Remix (released on promotional 12″ single)
14. Brown Sugar CJ Mackintosh Remix (Additional production and Remix by CJ Mackintosh; released on the various artists CD collection Nu Classic Soul)
15. Lady CJ Mackintosh Mix Radio Edit (Additional production and Remix by CJ Mackintosh; released on U.K. CD Maxi-Single)
16. Cruisin’ Who’s Fooling Who Mix (released on promotional 12″ single)

Shania Twain offering exclusive album packages benefiting Shania Kids Can Foundation

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Shania Twain promised herself that if she were ever in a position to give back, she would find a way to help children reach their full potential. After overcoming the hardships, loss and extreme poverty of her youth, Shania is now one of the most iconic country stars in the world and is helping to provide the best possible opportunities for youth today facing similar challenges through the Shania Kids Can Foundation. Established in 2010, the organization was created to help underprivileged children with academic, nutritional, therapeutic and extra-curricular support providing a safe, secure environment where a child can thrive and reach their personal best.

With the Sep. 29 launch of her brand new album, NOW, featuring new single “Life’s About to Get Good,” Shania is offering exclusive album packages to benefit Shania Kids Can. Package options range from the new Shania deluxe album, Shania Kids Can merchandise and autographed memorabilia to tickets to an intimate pre-release listening party, one-of-a-kind performance outfits worn by Shania, the custom motorcycle used in Shania’s Still the One Live from Las Vegas stage show, dinner in Nashville with Shania and much more.

For additional details and package descriptions, go here.

Founded by performer Shania Twain in 2010, Shania Kids Can helps to relieve the economic, social and personal sufferings of children that she herself experienced as a child. Shania Kids Can operates in elementary schools throughout North America delivering programs that aim to provide all-inclusive support and stability by qualified professionals in the form of one-on-one consultations as well as group activities and opportunities all while in the safe, confidence-building environment that is the Shania Kids Can Clubhouse. Among the services offered are: Academic support, nutritious food, social and psychological support, vocational training and practical life skills, as well as after school programs. Shania Kids Can is a Canadian registered charity, Shania Kids Can US Ltd is a registered 501 (c) (3) charity.

Sonic Highways Outtakes Shows Dave Grohl Not Liking His Old Demos

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Dave Grohl has released outtake footage from Foo Fighters’ 2014 documentary series Sonic Highways, where he’s seen not loving his old demos of his band.

The scenes were shot while Grohl made an eight-part TV show, which featured Foo Fighters recording each song in a different U.S. city while exploring the location’s rich and vibrant musical history.

Grohl is seen in Laundry Room Studios in Seattle, catching up with old producer Barrett Jones, who plays the tape of songs called “Watered It Down” and “Slackers Password.” He’s quote unhappy with what he hears, calling the songs “Interesting and weird” and “it reminds me of our living room.”

The New Music Documentary That Does Not End Well

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Bluesy, raw singer Ish, fresh out of Kansas City foster care, jumps off the Greyhound bus in Hollywood ready to become a star. With only a backpack and a few bucks, he lives on the streets.

While Ish believes in his own exceptional vocal talent, the skill to manage daily life eludes him. Ish’s Cinderella story starts when he answers a Craigslist ad for a singer, and musician PM Romero immediately wants to collaborate with this extraordinary performer.

Romero takes him under his wing to create music together. Once he discovers that Ish is homeless, Romero’s role evolves from bandmate to mentor, teacher, and father figure.

As the newly formed band William Pilgrim, the pair go on to write and record over 40 songs, but the group struggles under Ish’s inability to cope. He remains unable to shake the effects of his horrifying childhood, including abuse in several foster homes.

This documentary covers six years of the journey of William Pilgrim and explores if the concern and action of a new friend can provide the path to a better life for Ish.

In addition to the upcoming feature film, PM Romero is producing a series of webisodes called The ISHUES Project, as a means to promote those who wish to improve our world with their activism and heart. The ISHUES Project profiles both individuals and organizations that strive to make positive change in our neighborhoods. This webisode series can be viewed at www.ishues.org.

E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial 35th Anniversary Limited Edition Gift Set

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In 1982, acclaimed director Steven Spielberg created iconic movie magic with his classic film, E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, the unforgettable and emotional adventure of an adorable alien lost on Earth and the lonely boy who befriends him. Winner of four Academy Awards, including Best Music, E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial has become a cinematic touchstone for generations of moviegoers and one of the most beloved films of all time. Now, Universal Pictures Home Entertainment celebrates the film’s original theatrical release with a special gift set, E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial 35th Anniversary Limited Edition on 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray + Digital available on September 12, 2017. This special gift set features premium packaging, includes a re-mastered CD soundtrack of the original Grammy Award-winning album, is packed with over three hours of bonus features and includes a collector’s booklet with behind-the-scenes stories and rare images from the archives. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial 35th Anniversary Limited Edition retains all the excitement, drama and warm-hearted humor that made it an instant worldwide classic.

Fans can also relive the adventure and magic of one of the most beloved motion pictures of all-time, with the 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack along with the new Blu-ray Combo Pack and DVD editions that showcase new artwork of the beloved cast on September 12, 2017. All releases include a code to redeem the film on Digital plus over three hours of bonus features such as deleted scenes and revealing interviews that bring back the film’s humor, suspense and wonder, making this a must-own movie for everyone’s library.

Captivating audiences of all ages, this timeless story follows the unforgettable journey of a lost alien and the 10-year-old boy he befriends. Join Elliot (Henry Thomas), Gertie (Drew Barrymore) and Michael (Robert MacNaughton) as they come together to help E.T. find his way home. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial is “one of the great American films” (Leonard Maltin) that forever belongs in the hearts and minds of audiences everywhere.

E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial returns to movie theaters nationwide for a two day cinema event on Sunday, September 17, and Wednesday, September 20. These special event screenings will feature an exclusive commentary from TCM Primetime Host Ben Mankiewicz. Tickets and participating theaters are available at www.FathomEvents.com.

BONUS FEATURES on BLU-RAY and DVD:

  • The E.T. Journals – Retrace the day-to-day experience of creating E.T from never-before-seen, behind-the-scenes footage shot by Academy Award-winning cinematographer John Toll.
  • Steven Spielberg & E.T. – Watch an interview with Steven Spielberg, as he reflects back on the film and discusses his experience working with the actors, as well as his overall and current perspective on E.T.
  • The Music of E.T.: A Discussion with John Williams – Interviews and footage focused on the long-standing relationship between John Williams and Steven Spielberg.
  • Designs, Photographs and Marketing of E.T
    • E.T. Designs by Production Illustrator Ed Verreaux
    • E.T. Designs by Carlo Rambaldi
    • Spaceship Designs by Ralph McQuarrie
    • Designs by Production Illustrator Ed Verreaux
    • Production Photographs
  • Marketing E.TA Look Back – A special insider’s look into the making of E.T. featuring interviews with Steven Spielberg, the cast, and others intimately involved with the film.
  • The E.T. Reunion – The cast and filmmaker reunite to discuss their thoughts on the impact of the film.
  • The 20th Anniversary Premiere – Composer John Williams played the score of E.T. live at the Shrine Auditorium for the re-release premiere of E.T.   This featurette gives us a behind the scenes look at this presentation.
  • Deleted Scenes
  • Theatrical Trailer

Former Vice President Al Gore, Shailene Woodley, Sterling K. Brown And More To Narrate The Audiobook Edition Of An Inconvenient Sequel: Truth To Power

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A star-studded cast of narrators will join former Vice President Al Gore on his forthcoming audiobook AN INCONVENIENT SEQUEL: TRUTH TO POWER, available on CD and for download on July 25, 2017. The Simon & Schuster audiobook will be published simultaneously with hardcover and ebook editions from Rodale. A documentary film of the same name will follow later that week.

Golden Globe–nominee Shailene Woodley (The Fault in Our Stars, Divergent), Emmy Award-nominee Sterling K. Brown (This is Us; The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story), Tony Award winner Danny Burstein (Fiddler on the Roof; South Pacific) and Tony Award-nominee Marin Ireland (Glass Chin, Homeland) will all lend their voices to the audiobook edition.

In AN INCONVENIENT SEQUEL: TRUTH TO POWER, Gore recounts and contextualizes the critical issues and moments in the climate change movement since the release of An Inconvenient Truth more than ten years ago, and highlights the real solutions we have at hand to change the planet for the better.

The audio edition of An Inconvenient Truth won the Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album in 2009.

Brad Paisley Joins Fender Artist Signature Series With Brad Paisley Road Worn Telecaster Guitar

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Fender Musical Instruments Corporation today announced its collaboration with three-time GRAMMY Award-winning and multiplatinum-selling country music superstar, singer, and celebrated guitarist Brad Paisley for his own artist signature guitar: the Brad Paisley Road Worn Telecaster. Fender and Paisley united to create a classic and timeless guitar reminiscent of one of his prized instruments in his guitar arsenal, his silver sparkle Telecaster. The collaboration will be officially revealed at Summer NAMM 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.

“The best thing about having a Fender Signature Telecaster is the unwavering quality associated with the brand’s legacy and confidence that I’m introducing a great guitar at an incredible price point,” says Paisley. “I set out to create a guitar that was accessible for the vast majority of young people out there, who I hope to inspire to change the world with musical dreams.”

In addition to Paisley’s six-string virtuosity is his knack for an enduring country hit. His inimitable playing has underscored writing and performing that yielded three GRAMMY Awards, two American Music Awards, 14 Academy of Country Music Awards, 14 Country Music Association Awards (including Entertainer of the Year) and 24 No. 1 world-renowned hits. LOVE AND WAR, Paisley’s newest album, debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart, marking his 9th consecutive studio album entry at the chart’s top position.

The instrument itself reflects Paisley’s dynamic persona and showcases his shared mission with Fender: to inspire the next generation of players. The body is custom-made from a lightweight and resonant paulownia center core with spruce top and back, while a custom wound ’64 Tele Bridge Pickup expands the sonic palette with just the right amount of rough and tumble energy. Paisley carefully chose an enhanced “V” neck shape, making for a comfortable grip. The medium jumbo frets are perfect for quick picking and those bluesy over-the-neck bends. To cap it off, Roadworn silver sparkle finish, aged hardware, and a paisley pickguard make this guitar worthy of legends.

“Brad’s influence has reached every corner of modern guitar playing realm and music at large across all genres – not just country,” adds Justin Norvell, Senior Vice President, Fender Products. “Not only is it a beautiful guitar, but it has some amazing, unique features that we developed directly with him, namely the lightweight body and hot pickups. We amalgamated features from several of his favorite guitars, resulting in a truly compelling instrument we hope will empower players everywhere.”

Fender’s popular artist signature models are geared toward product progression and storytelling, creating instruments designed to the unique specifications of the world’s most iconic artists. The Brad Paisley Road Worn Telecaster gives fans and players everywhere a chance to engage in a musical experience Paisley helped curate.

Back in 1995, Sony Music released this doc on the CD manufacturing process for Michael Jackson’s History Album

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Back in 1995, Sony Music released this video doc on the CD manufacturing process for Michael Jackson’s History Album.

https://youtu.be/FfRi7UrizCA

This Greeting Card Turns Into A Record Player

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Recards makes unique greeting cards which include a vinyl record and a platform, spindle, and stylus you pop out and fold together to actually play the record.

Video: Noam Chomsky and Harry Belafonte In Conversation For The Very First Time

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On Monday, December 5 2016, over 2,000 people packed into Riverside Church in Manhattan to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Democracy Now! It was an historic occasion in part because it marked the first time Noam Chomsky and Harry Belafonte appeared on stage together in conversation. The two have been longtime champions of social justice. Chomsky is a world-renowned political dissident, linguist and author who gained fame in the 1960s for his critique of the Vietnam War and U.S. imperialism. He is institute professor emeritus at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he has taught for more than 50 years. Harry Belafonte is a longtime civil rights activist who was an immensely popular singer and actor. He was one of Martin Luther King’s closest confidants and helped organize the March on Washington in 1963.