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Last updated on Oct 6,2024, updated monthly. |
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 1 . De La Soul - All Good? (w/ Chaka Khan)Collaboration between De La Soul and the legendary Chaka Khan, "All Good?" drops in 2000. This track stands out for its hip-hop and soul fusion, featuring Chaka Khan's catchy chorus. The song delves into themes of disappointments and false promises. The music video, set in a car wash and inspired by the film "Car Wash," includes a cameo by actor Frank Vincent. The track has many remix versions, notably by MJ Cole and Razor N' Guido. The music video is directed by David Nelson. Writer(s) : David Jolicoeur, Vincent L Mason, Chaka Khan, David Nathaniel West, Posdnuos Publisher(s) : J B Music Publishing Llc, Jelly S Jams L L C, Bmg Talpa Music, Tee Girl Music Publishing Featured on the 2000 album Art Official Intelligence: Mosaic Thump
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 2 . Gnarls Barkley - Who CaresGnarls Barkley’s "Who Cares?" from their 2006 debut album *St. Elsewhere* offers a sharp blend of electro-soul, embodying the duo's signature style. Led by the unmistakable vocals of CeeLo Green and produced by Danger Mouse, the track explores themes of apathy and detachment with a dark, introspective edge. Alongside *St. Elsewhere’s* breakout hit "Crazy," "Who Cares?" remains rooted in a sound that weaves retro soul elements with modern electronic flourishes, encapsulating Gnarls Barkley's distinct sonic fusion. The music video is directed by Barney Clay. Writer(s) : Dennis Douglas,Patrick Hambly,Stephen Burton,Timothy Stephen Young,Keith Mansfield Publisher(s) : Starfighters Featured on the 2006 album St. Elsewhere
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 3 . Erick Sermon - Music (w/ Marvin Gaye)Erick Sermon's "Music," a 2001 single, pays homage to the timeless power of music by sampling Marvin Gaye's "I've Got My Music (Original Version of 'Turn on Some Music')." Sermon, known from EPMD, blends hip-hop with soulful melodies, creating a nostalgic yet fresh soundscape. Writer(s) : Nona Gaye, Frank Gaye, Marvin P Gaye, E Double E Publisher(s) : Zomba Enterprises Inc, Erick Sermon Enterprises Inc Featured on the 2001 album Music
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 4 . SWV - Can We (w/ Missy Elliott)This 1997 track is a collaboration between SWV (Sisters With Voices), known for hits like "Weak" and "Right Here," and Missy Elliott, who was emerging as a solo artist and producer. "Can We" is part of the "Booty Call" soundtrack, directed by Jeff Pollack and starring Jamie Foxx and Vivica A. Fox. Produced by Timbaland, the song blends R&B and hip-hop, featuring sensual and suggestive lyrics with a catchy hook asking, "Can we get kinky tonight?". The music video is directed by Jesse Vaughan. Writer(s) : Missy Elliott, Timbaland Publisher(s) : Mass Confusion Productions, Wc Music Corp, Virginia Beach Music Featured on the 1997 album Release Some Tension
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 5 . Disclosure - F For You"F For You" by Disclosure, featuring vocals from Mary J. Blige in a remix version, is an electro-house track from 2013. The British duo, brothers Guy and Howard Lawrence, craft a hypnotic piece with minimalist lyrics, syncopated rhythms, and compelling bass lines. Writer(s) : Guy William Lawrence, Howard John Lawrence Publisher(s) : Universal Music Publishing Limited (Gb) Featured on the 2013 album Settle
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 6 . Jay Z - Empire State of Mind (w/ Alicia Keys)Produced by Al Shux, "Empire State of Mind" is an ode to New York, blending Jay Z and Alicia Keys' talents. Sampling "Love on a Two-Way Street" by The Moments, it tops the Billboard Hot 100 and becomes an unofficial anthem for NYC. The black-and-white video shows Jay Z and Keys in iconic New York locations. Keys wrote and recorded her chorus in one take, and the song was performed at the 2009 World Series opening ceremony. The music video is directed by Hype Williams. Writer(s) : Angela Ann Hunte, Alicia Keys, Bert Keyes, Sylvia Robinson, Shux, Jay Z Publisher(s) : Masani El Shabazz, Kmr Ii Gt Publishing Limited, Universal Music Corporation, Carter Boys Music, Emi April Music Inc, Foray Music, J Sewell Publishing, Lellow Productions Inc
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 7 . Lucy Pearl - Dance Tonight"Dance Tonight" is a 2000 track by supergroup Lucy Pearl, composed of Raphael Saadiq (formerly of Tony! Toni! Toné!), Dawn Robinson (formerly of En Vogue), and Ali Shaheed Muhammad (of A Tribe Called Quest). With verses describing preparations for a lively night out, the song blends R&B, funk, and hip-hop for a unique, refreshing sound. "Dance Tonight" was Grammy-nominated and featured on several movie soundtracks, including "Love & Basketball," directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood and starring Sanaa Lathan and Omar Epps. Writer(s) : Dawn Sherrice Robinson, Ali Shaheed Muhammad, Raphael Saadiq Publisher(s) : Ugmoe Music, Stratinum Songs, Watermelon Girl Music, Universal Music Z Tunes Llc, Cool Abdul Music, Sony Atv Melody Featured on the 2000 album Lucy Pearl
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 8 . Slum Village - TaintedSlum Village's "Tainted," featuring Dwele, is a standout track from 2002, produced by the legendary J Dilla. The song merges hip-hop and neo-soul, exploring themes of betrayal and complicated relationships. Dwele's soulful vocals add depth to the beat-driven production. Writer(s) : Titus Glover, Emmanuel Riggins, Andwele Gardner, R L Altman III, Elzhi Publisher(s) : Zhifi Music, Karriem Riggins Music, District 6 Music Publishing Limited, Emi Blackwood Music Inc, Donut Boy Music, Priestly Hood Music Featured on the 2002 album Trinity
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 9 . Mark Ronson - Valerie (w/ Amy Winehouse)Mark Ronson's "Valerie," featuring Amy Winehouse, is a soulful 2007 cover of The Zutons' 2006 hit. Winehouse's distinctive voice and emotional depth transform the track, while Ronson's orchestral arrangements elevate it. The original, penned by Dave McCabe, was inspired by his long-distance relationship with makeup artist Valerie Star. The music video is directed by Robert Hales. Writer(s) : Abigail Harding, Russell Thom Pritchard, David Alan McCabe, Sean Francis Cal Payne, Boyan Uddin Chowdhury Publisher(s) : Warner Chappell Music Ltd Featured on the 2007 album Version
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 10 . Ghostface Killah - All That I Got Is You (w/ Mary J. Blige)"All That I Got Is You," by Ghostface Killah featuring Mary J. Blige, is a 1996 single sampling The Jackson 5's "Maybe Tomorrow." Produced by RZA, the track is an introspective ballad where Ghostface shares poignant childhood memories. The nostalgic and emotional tone is echoed in the music video. The music video is directed by Terry Heller and Chuck Ozeas.. Writer(s) : Ghostface Killah, Frederick J Perren, RZA, Berry Gordy Jr, Mary J Blige, Alphonso James Mizell, Deke Richards Publisher(s) : Universal Music Corporation, Warner Tamerlane Pub Corp, Mary J Blige Music, Ramecca Publishing Inc, Universal Music Careers Featured on the 1996 album Ironman
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 11 . Mary J. Blige - Family Affair"Family Affair" by Mary J. Blige, produced by Dr. Dre, is a 2001 hit that topped the Billboard Hot 100 for six weeks. The dance-pop and R&B track celebrates a party vibe with iconic phrases like "dancery" and "no hateration, holleration," showcasing Blige's versatile style. The music video is directed by Dave Meyers. Writer(s) : Asiah Louis, Mike Elizondo, Bruce Allen Miller, Melvin Charles S Bradford, Luchana Nicole Lodge, Andrew Paul Young, Mary J Blige, Camara Kambon Publisher(s) : Universal Tunes, Universal Music Corporation, Spirit One Music Crescendo, Colorscapes Publishing, Mary J Blige Music, Hard Working Black Folks Inc, Cwab, Melvin Bradford Music, Wc Music Corp, Music Of Windswept, Ain T Nothing But Funkin Music Featured on the 2001 album No More Drama
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 12 . Aaliyah - Hot Like Fire (w/ Missy Elliott & Timbaland)"Hot Like Fire" by Aaliyah, produced by Timbaland and featuring Missy Elliott, is a 1997 single known for its syncopated beats and sensual rhythm. The track, highlighting Aaliyah's enchanting vocals, promises a potential lover that she's worth the wait. The red-themed party music video features cameos from Timbaland, Missy Elliott, and Lil' Kim. The music video is directed by Lance "Un" Rivera. Writer(s) : Timbaland, Melissa A Elliott Publisher(s) : Virginia Beach Music, Wc Music Corp, Mass Confusion Productions Featured on the 1996 album One in a Million
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 13 . Aaliyah - If Your Girl Only KnewIf Your Girl Only Knew was produced by Timbaland, who also contributed to the songwriting alongside Missy Elliott. The song showcases Aaliyah's distinctive vocal style and Timbaland's innovative production techniques. The music video was directed by Joseph Kahn, known for his work with artists like Britney Spears and Eminem. Writer(s) : Timbaland, Missy Elliott Publisher(s) : Virginia Beach Music, Mass Confusion Productions Featured on the 1996 album One in a Million
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 14 . Mary J. Blige - Love Is All We Need (w/ Nas)"Love Is All We Need" is a collaboration between Mary J. Blige and Nas. Produced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, it blends R&B and rap and marks a stylistic shift for Blige towards a lighter, more joyful tone. It samples "Moonchild" (1985) by Rick James. The music video is directed by Paul Hunter. Writer(s) : Terry Steven Lewis, Mary J Blige, Jimmy Jam, James A Johnson Publisher(s) : Mary J Blige Music, Kmr Music Royalties Ii Scsp Featured on the 1997 album Share My World
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 15 . Gnarls Barkley - Crazy"Crazy," the massive 2006 hit by Gnarls Barkley, is the debut single from CeeLo Green and Danger Mouse. The track samples "Nel Cimitero Di Tucson" from the 1968 spaghetti western "Django, Prepare a Coffin." The lyrics, discussing the theme of losing one's mind, are paired with a Rorschach-inspired music video. "Crazy" is widely covered and featured in films like "Kick-Ass" (2010) by Matthew Vaughn and "The Big Short" (2015) by Adam McKay. The music video is directed by Robert Hales. Writer(s) : Brian Joseph Burton, Thomas Decarl O Callaway, Gian Piero Reverberi, Gianfranco Reverberi Publisher(s) : Warner Chappell Music Ltd, Sweet Science, Universal Music Publishing Ricordi Srl Featured on the 2006 album St. Elsewhere
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 16 . Raphael Saadiq - Ask Of You"Ask Of You" by Raphael Saadiq, from the 1995 "Higher Learning" soundtrack directed by John Singleton, is a romantic R&B and soul ballad. Saadiq, known for his work with Tony! Toni! Toné! and Lucy Pearl, delivers an emotionally rich performance with sophisticated production. Writer(s) : Timothy Christian, Raphael Saadiq, Hachidai Nakamura, Ei Rokusu Publisher(s) : Tony Toni Tone Music, Sony Music Publishing Japan Emi Localdiv Featured on the 1995 album Higher Learning : Soundtrack
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 17 . Fugees - Killing Me Softly With His Song"Killing Me Softly With His Song" by Fugees, released in 1996, is a cover of Roberta Flack's 1973 classic. Featuring Lauryn Hill's lead vocals, the Fugees bring a hip-hop twist with modern beats and rhythms. The track tops charts worldwide and wins a Grammy for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group. It's also featured in the 2002 film "About a Boy," directed by Chris Weitz and Paul Weitz. The music video is directed by Aswad Ayinde. Writer(s) : Norman Gimbel, Charles Fox Publisher(s) : Rodali Music, Fox Gimbel Productions Inc Featured on the 1996 album The Score
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 18 . Refugee Camp All Stars - The Sweetest Thing (w/ Lauryn Hill)"The Sweetest Thing" by Refugee Camp All Stars, featuring Lauryn Hill, is a 1997 single on the "Love Jones" soundtrack, directed by Theodore Witcher and starring Larenz Tate and Nia Long. Hill's soulful vocals express bittersweet emotions of a romantic relationship. The music video is directed by Paul Hunter. Writer(s) : Wyclef Jean, Lauryn N Hill Publisher(s) : Obverse Creation Musicc Inc, Tete San Ko Publishing Inc, Sony Atv Tunes Llc Featured on the 1997 album Love Jones : Soundtrack
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 19 . Nicole - Make It Hot (w/ Missy Elliott & Mocha)"Make It Hot" by Nicole Wray, featuring Missy Elliott and Mocha, hits the scene in 1998. Produced by Timbaland, the track samples "Peace and Love (Amani Na Mapenzi): Movement IV (Encounter)" by Mandrill. It reaches the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 with its syncopated beats and futuristic sounds. The music video is directed by Christopher Erskin. Writer(s) : Timbaland, Melissa A Elliott, Aleesha Richards Publisher(s) : Virginia Beach Music, Mass Confusion Productions Featured on the 1998 album Make It Hot
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 20 . Missy Elliott - All N My GrillSampling "Dernier Domicile Connu" by François de Roubaix, "All N My Grill" by Missy Elliott, released in 1999, features Big Boi and Nicole Wray. The track, produced by Timbaland, stands out for its syncopated beats and innovative sound, discussing themes of fidelity in relationships. The music video is directed by Hype Williams. Writer(s) : Timbaland, Melissa A Elliott, Big Boi Publisher(s) : Virginia Beach Music, Gnat Booty Music, Mass Confusion Productions Featured on the 1999 album Da Real World
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ABOUT NEO SOULWhat is Neo Soul ?Neo Soul emphasizes rich and expressive singing, reminiscent of the great soul voices of the ’70s. Singers often use melisma and complex vocal runs to add depth and emotion to their performances. Instrumentation is a harmonious blend of live and electronic production: classic instruments like bass, piano, and guitar are often played with a smooth, jazzy touch. Syncopated, groovy rhythms are supported by subtle percussion and deep bass lines. The lyrics are often introspective and poetic, tackling themes like love, identity, relationships, and social issues. The Societal Impact of Neo SoulNeo Soul plays a crucial role in highlighting the diversity of Black musical expression. By providing a platform for a wide range of voices and perspectives, the genre celebrates the richness of Black culture. It addresses issues of race, identity, and social justice, offering varied and nuanced narratives that resonate with a broad and diverse audience. Neo Soul goes beyond music, influencing popular culture and societal conversations. Its introspective and socially conscious lyrics encourage listeners to reflect on important issues such as gender equality, civil rights, and personal empowerment. The Cultural Impact of Neo SoulNeo Soul significantly influences various musical genres, including hip-hop, pop, and contemporary R&B. By focusing on authenticity and emotional expression, Neo Soul inspires many artists to explore deeper sounds and more introspective themes. Neo Soul artists often adopt a distinctive style that blends vintage and contemporary elements, from clothing and hairstyles to accessories. This fusion can be seen in brands like House of Dereon, co-founded by Beyoncé and her mother Tina Knowles, Pyer Moss by designer Kerby Jean-Raymond, Reformation, Mara Hoffman, and Duro Olowu, a British designer of Nigerian descent. Neo Soul also has a notable influence in cinema and TV, often used to create intimate, emotional, and authentic atmospheres. It features in films like “Brown Sugar” (2002) by Rick Famuyiwa, “Love & Basketball” (2000) by Gina Prince-Bythewood, “The Best Man” (1999) by Malcolm D. Lee, and “Love Jones” (1997) by Theodore Witcher. |
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