On the heel of the Yankee’s World Series Championship, here is the video for the song “Empire State of Mind” by Jay-Z and Alicia Keys. Just a week ago, they performed this song during the world series game against Philadelphia. The video was brilliantly directed by the talented Hype Williams and has become an anthem to everyone between both coasts. Although Jay-Z’s new material I am not a huge fan of, this song is undeniably infectious and Alicia’s vocals are incredable . Also, just annouced is Jay-Z upcoming tour dates where he’s scheduled to perform in New Orleans, Boston, Los Angles, etc. To view the full listing, click here. For now, check out his latest video “Empire State of Mind”! ~H.R.
ARTIST SPOTLIGHT- FRANKLIN IV
Franklin IV
New Orleans artist, Franklin IV, is a talented singer/songwriter who describes his music as “afro-punk”. His style and music resembles nothing like you have ever experienced or heard before . Franklin IV’s music embodies a mixture of genres such as neo-soul, classical, gospel and the 80s style and culture of Prince . His eclectic style is also emulated through his work as a screen writer, actor, and composer.
PHOTO by Micheal Hebert
For the first time since 1991, the New Orleans Saints has an undefeated record of 7-0. The Saints’ game against the Atlanta Falcons in the New Orleans Superdome on November 3, 2009 sealed their title as the #1 team in the NFC. The team executed an almost perfect game with the leadership of quarterback Drew Brees and the collaborative effort of each team member. Well known Saints running backs Reggie Bush and Marques Coltson accounted for two (2) of the touchdowns that night. Jabari Greer, who made a interception and then scored, ran 48 yards into the end zone for another touchdown. Pierre Thomas, who’s impressive scoring and acrobatic moves, made an amazing catch while falling on his back at the end which sealed his second touchdown and the game.
ARTIST SPOTLIGHT- DEE 1
DEE- 1
Dee-1 is a Hip-hop phenomenon from New Orleans whose rap style is like no other. His debut album entitled ‘David & Goliath” hit stores in January 2009 and has been in heavy rotation in CD players and iPods for those who appreciate, not only hip-hop, but good music. During a recent interview, I had the pleasure to ask him some questions I’ve always wanted to ask ever since becoming a fan of his earlier this year. In this EXCLUSIVE interview,we get to know Dee-1 the artist and the man named David .
THROWBACK VIDEO PICK- THE ROOTS “Proceed”
This week’s THROWBACK Video Pick comes from the Philadelphia based rap crew THE ROOTS. The song entitled, ‘Proceed’ is from their 1995 album “Do You want More!!?!?” which also feature classics like ‘Silent Treatmeant’, ‘Mellow My Man’, ‘Lazy Afternoon’ and others. This song is a classic jam that makes you appreciate their live band style of hip-hop and makes think “what if you can just, just blink yourself away! ” ~BT 
Check out THE ROOTS in a city near you for their 2009 nationwide tour. THE ROOTS will be performing in New Orleans on November 7, 2009 at The McAlister Auditorium at Tulane University featuring New Orleans artist Dee-1 . Click here for more details! Hope you enjoy this week’s pick! ~H.R.
Do you have a THROWBACK Video Pick you would like featured on THE DAILY LEAP? Email me at info@thedailyleap.com or hit me up on Twitter! www.twitter/thedailyleap.
NEW VIDEO- CHRISETTE MICHELE “What You Do”
MUSIC SPOTLIGHT-DON ANTHONY “Dream Girl”
R&B Singer Don Anthony
Don Anthony is an up and coming R&B singer and writer from New Orleans who describes his music as ”Popish-R&B” Growing up in the Big Easy, the 24 year old credits his mentor ‘Ms. Butler’ who coached him on how to sing and perform. Her training perfected him as an artist, even instrucing him on details such as how to properly hold the mic. When he was 8 years old, his mother discovered his musical talents. While singing at home his mother told him, ”Boy, you can sing!’ Amazed, Anthony responded “I can?!” Since then, his debut album has been in works.
THROWBACK VIDEO PICK- DE LA SOUL “Saturdays”
THE DAILY LEAP’s THROWBACK Video Pick showcases classic hip-hop and R&B videos to celebrate all the good music from back in the day.
This week’s video pick is the very fitting “Saturdays” by DE LA SOUL. The video features Q-tip, Charlie Brown from LOTNS, and vocalist Vinia Mojica. You guys might want to go and get your rollerskates for this one Check it out and then answer this question: REMEMBER THIS SONG? Enjoy! ~H.R.
Do you have an Throwback Video Pick that you would like to see featured on THE DAILY LEAP? Hit me up at info@thedailyleap.com
Derrick Tabb and 'The Roots of Music' Marching Band Members
New Orleans Rebirth Brass Band member and founder of The Roots of Music, Derrick Tabb is nominated for this year’s CNN “Hero of the Year” Award. The Roots of Music is a music education program designed to help the inner-city youth of New Orleans learn a musical instrument and assist children to excel in school. The program was established post-Katrina and co-founded by Allison Reinhardt. The program currently serves over 103 children.
The “Hero of the Year” award is given yearly by CNN to show recognition for the efforts of those who are making a difference in the community. The winner will receive $100,000 and title of “The Hero of the Year.” You can vote now as many times as you like on www.cnn.com. Voting ends on November 19th and the winner will be announced on Thanksgiving Day 2009. So go vote!
Also, show your support by attending The Roots of Music Marching Band’s upcoming performances on October 30th at the Louisiana Culture Economic Summit featuring Trombone Shorty and at the 2009 Voodoo Festival on October 31th. Visit their website at www.therootsofmusic.com for more information or to make a donation. Also, check back to THE DAILY LEAP for a full length article featuring an interview with Allison Reinhardt coming up soon!
Congratulations to Derrick on his nomination and don’t forget to VOTE! ~HR.
Click here to vote for Derrick Tabb CNN “Hero of the Year”!
From the latest album Q-tip released back in November 2008 ,”The Renaissance”, here is the third video released entitled “Life is Better”. The song is a collaboration with the Grammy-award winning singer, Norah Jones.
