CEDTalks

Lydia René is…multifaceted. It almost sounds like an understatement when listing all the incredible talents and skills she possesses; she has a say (or song) in every part of her creative process. In an era that does not always demand an assortment of talent from its artists, the Singer/Songwriter/Producer/Pianist captures hearts and ears because of her abilities. Her voice is powerful yet graceful and calming, and her neo-soul melodies immediately grab listeners and create the urge to hear more. Lydia’s enchanting style, and flowing hair, create the comparison to songstress Jill Scott, but it is clear that she is a stand-alone vocalist that has a unique gift and sound. The Westampton, NJ native (now residing in Los Angeles) not only offers an remarkable vocal range of Tenor to Mezzo Soprano, but depth in her songwriting that gives love, power, and perspective.   “I love singing and writing about love and relationships as well as life,” the musician states. “I want people ...

" Friendship multiplies the good of life and divides the evil. " Baltasar Gracian Reunions carry a certain mystique. At high school and college reunions, alumni both accomplished and otherwise return to find the answer to a few questions: Did so and so get their life together? Is shorty still fine? Do they still call him " Pretty Ricky "? When classic bands reunite after years away from the spotlight, we all wonder do they still possess the voices and energy, or have years of partying, eating, and in-group fighting stripped away their allure. Needless to say I was extremely excited to reunite with my crew of best friends last weekend, known to people near and far as the Young Men of Empowerment (Excellence), "Y.Me".  Eleven years ago, 5 ambitions men (which grew to 6) from incredibly different backgrounds were brought together by competition, music, Black pride, and aspirations to be the best. Years and accomplishments later, we still come toget...

Renaissance Music artist Ruff Trenton-born rapper Ruff provides listeners a relaxed, easy going affair with his debut EP titled "Smoove Sail". The EP offers a unique perspective as the project discusses relatable subjects such as economic struggle and relationships through a calm and unwavering approach. During "Smoove Sail", Ruff combats the rough waters of our existence with a poker face, inspiring its listeners to address their respective with the same unconquerable attitude.  On "Smoove Sail" Ruff, the Wesley College senior and Kappa Alpha Psi member, couples captivating lyrics with a smooth delivery and a voice synonymous with his name and the result is a relaxed voyage through life’s various circumstances. In the lead single “Bottle Wraps” featuring label mate Johnny Quest, he emphasizes the importance of celebrating life, while on the captivating track “Reminisce”, Ruff channels classic hip hop tales of the 90s and embraces his upbringing...

"The beat is crazy though!" "This song just gets me hype!" In his 2004 comedy special "Never Scared", Chris Rock talks about growing tired of defending his beloved rap music. While highlighting the songs, he mention how fans of hip hop overlook how incredibly tasteless, misogynistic, and crude some of the lyrics are: While I laugh insanely at this clip and the special every time I see it, my recent involvement with music causes me to laugh to stop from crying (or the infamous, "ha hah...not really funny"). As I've grown older and have become more aware of the music and its ramifications, I can't just laugh it off. I can't just dance to this music because "the beat's hot" or "it's so catchy". I'm not grooving just because Chris Brown is on it anymore. I've supported Usher for years but bruh I DO mind. I mind that you're not pushing our women to have employment that speaks to their ...

Consider singer Michelle Lee a candle in this strikingly nocturnal era of modern music. In an age where the themes of misogyny and drugs are universal yet monotonous, the 25 year-old talent lights up the room with a refreshing, ear grabbing voice that must be identified when heard. Invoking the soulful melody of legends like Anita Baker and Toni Braxton, she also provides progressive songwriting in the build of new age vocalists Elle Varner and Janelle Monae. Stylish, spiritual, and an incredibly fun-loving person, Michelle is the "one stop shop" artist; she offers a sultry, intimate sound enveloped by a warm and inviting aura.  Born and raised in the first state of Delaware, Michelle fell in love with music at an early age. She began singing in the church, and her gift was easily recognized by others. With the encouragement of her mother (to whom Michelle gives immeasurable thanks), friends, and family she decided to pursue her music full steam. Her journey to s...

The NBA Playoffs is one of my favorite sports tourneys; with its classic battles of big stars and compelling storylines, the tournament is rarely short on fireworks. The 2014 NBA Playoffs has been no different, yet some of the biggest sparks were launched from outside the arena. Over a span of three weeks, comments from NBA owners and officials on race, specifically African Americans, has caused a stir at both water coolers and television networks alike. In a feat unpredicted by the best psychics, the NBA, a league in which over 70% of the players are Black, has shown that prejudice is as common as ever.  While this should come as no surprise, it must be noted that these beliefs and actions now surface in more..."creative" forms. For the African American community, a huge challenge remains in developing a sound attack against the misconceptions. Creating a balance between acknowledging certain prejudice and stereotypes and making a planned effort not to perpetuate these...

March 24th marked my twenty eighth year here on th is earth, and it marked an important day in my life, as I decided to actually go to work. For anyone who knows me and how I view birthdays, this is a huge occurrence…even though I took off the next day. Turning 28 is an unrecognized milestone in a person’s life, as it is the midpoint of what I call the “career decade” aka “10 Years an Irrelevant Person” (After 12 Years a Slave , any topic revolving time should be spoken as such). The period between ages 23-33 is a moment where you are no longer viewed as a darling, or important for that matter, unless you catapult to the top of your desired career field or on the fast track towards it. If you deviate from this at any time, you slowly move out of sight and out of mind, barring life changing events such as marriage or children; coincidentally, these events shift the focus away from you. In my individual period, I’ve experienced a sample of these highs and lows, falling out of favor for ...