New Music Thursday: Gaelle (Naked-Music)

Artist: Gaelle (pronounced guy-elle)
Album: Transient
Label: Naked Music

Now, I’ve known Gaelle since the early 90s. Who would have guessed she would end up living on campus next to one of my best friends. Even after our first encounter, I could tell there was something very special about her. Maybe it was the intensity in her eyes or the soothing sound of her voice. Either way, I was in love. But like most great love stories, a series of tragic events and bad decisions would bring a close to that chapter of our lives.

Gaelle is a New Jersey native, by way of her Haitian roots but calls Atlanta home. She has worked with various artists from Atlanta’s own Chris Brann to Cee-lo Green (Goodie Mob).

After 4 years of meticulous preparation, late nights and several thousand cups of coffee, Gaelle and her partner, co-producer Eric Stamile, have created an emotional, sensual masterpiece that blends so many genres of music that it defies categorization. It doesn’t realty fit into any one box. Transient is an intoxicating, hypnotic blend of R&B rhythms with a rich mix of house, jazz and neo-soul. Her lyrics are deeply emotional, personal, sometimes tragic yet inspiring.

Keep an eye out for Gaelle, her star is rising, and if by chance she’s playing in a town near you, I highly recommend you check it out. You won’t be disappointed.

To Give or Not to Give...

How much is the question?

I received an email yesterday from a good friend of mine who joined the Peace Corps last summer. Now Angel is a long time friend from college (has it really been that long?) and I was shocked to hear of her decision to abandon the luxuries of Western living and dedicate herself to helping others.

Imagine 2 years spent in Panama teaching language, business etiquette, marketing and technology among other subjects. Away from you closest family and friends, the void of select creature comforts that we Americans can sometimes take for granted.

Angel is a constant reminder in my life that the world is a global community that requires nurturing. The only way to change the world is to be an agent of change, a beacon of light, a pillar of strength. I challenge all who read this to donate a moment of your time to help someone in need, not monetarily, give of yourself, your time. For your time is much more precious than gold.

BTW – A warm thanks goes out to Stumpy-P for the mention this week. Your kindness is much appreciated!

How to Bake a Story from Scratch...

The day drove by fast and furious leaving the dust of night behind her. I stood on top my stoop to see the commotion, but caught only a mouth full smoke.

*cough*
"Is that you?
*cough*
Get from around those bushes!"

In the pearl distance, draped in a flowing red dress with a hand on her hip, she asked, "Is this yours? or the dogs?" With a discomforting look on her face she took the bottom of her dress, and ripped it with an amazing amount of strength. Unfortunately, balance, or lack thereof, left her standing on her ass --- in that same pile of shit! "DAMN..!" her reply. To provide comfort, I outstretched my hand, cautiously thinking that her frustration could pull me down as well.

As we walked, the stench followed, laughing, as it sauntered beside us. After a silent exchange, we quickly made our way towards the bathroom. Once inside, the floor greeted her dress with a smile, as did I. Extending her legs into the shower, I watched, as water purified, removing all but the soft honey glow of her legs.

"Here, let me"
*cough*
"Will that do?"

She nodded in approval. Without words we danced our way to the bedroom. As I proceeded to turn off the light - 'click' - from the darkness I heard - "light a candle". As we kissed, from a distance the candle's light swayed in the wind, imitating the young lovers across the room. My lips walked gently along the small of her back, on a quest for her lips. I closed my eyes, allowing my tongue to lead the way.

Spring is Here!!!

This weekend in Atlanta, the weather was amazingly beautiful. Warm 70s and 80s. Clear blue skies and a cool breeze as if the ocean was only a mile away (unfortunately, there is no body of water for miles). As I ponder the warm spring weather, I am reminded of a recent business trip to St. Thomas. Although my only reason for being there was for business, I still made time to relax and enjoy the sun.

Sometimes we become so mired in the day to day that we forget to relax and take a break. Start planning your vacations, get out, make memories and enjoy life.


St. Thomas view from hotel  

A belief in God is not enough.

What is there to believe in if you can't believe in yourself?

Asking God to change a situation does nothing but shift blame. Take responsibility for your own actions. God will always provide opportunities, but it's up to you to walk through the door. Put into practice the things you believe to be true and test them for yourself. In doing so, you will fortify your shield of self-confidence against the elemental forces of fear that plant seeds of doubt in the garden of your soul.

Hello and Welcome to the Show

Welcome. This is my first *official* blog. I'm not 100% sure where this is headed but I hope you all enjoy the journey.

I encourage everyone who reads this blog to post a comment. I think one of the motivating factors for creating this blog was to be able to communicate with a large audience. Not only is this blog meant to express my own thoughts and opinions but hopefully the thoughts and opinions of others.

Oh well, have a great day. More to follow...