Tumgik
#Bhangra band
en-karma · 1 month
Text
Enkarma: Pioneering the Evolution of Bhangra Music
In the colorful tapestry of Punjabi music, one name stands out for its innovative spirit and electrifying performances - Enkarma. Renowned as a pioneering bhangra band, Enkarma has redefined the boundaries of traditional Punjabi music, blending vibrant bhangra rhythms with contemporary sounds to create a truly unique musical experience. This article delves into the world of Enkarma, exploring their journey, musical style, and cultural impact on the global stage.
0 notes
enkarma · 8 months
Text
En Karma Marks a Milestone
We are thrilled to announce that “Our Big Punjabi Family” is finally making its debut on @omnitelevision! This highly anticipated show promises to be a must-watch for all Punjabi culture enthusiasts. Don’t miss out on the fun and laughter!
It is a day filled with gratitude and sheer joy as En Karma celebrates a remarkable achievement that resonates deeply within the hearts of its members, families, friends, and fans. With immense pride, they stand as the sole Bhangra band in North America to grace a mainstream platform. This milestone not only marks our success but also represents a significant breakthrough for the entire Bhangra music industry. En Karma extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to this incredible journey.
We recognize the unwavering support of our dedicated fan base, acknowledging that it is through your continued encouragement that we can keep the spirit of music and culture alive. We express profound gratitude to all our fans for embracing our unique blend of traditional Bhangra with contemporary sounds, thereby allowing our music to reach new horizons.
The journey to this milestone has been one of dedication, perseverance, and a shared passion for Bhangra music. Our tireless efforts and commitment have paved the way for its recognition on a mainstream platform.
We believe that our achievement stands as an inspiration to aspiring Bhangra artists, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and stove for excellence in their chosen fields. By breaking barriers and representing our culture on a broader stage, En Karma has opened doors for further exploration and appreciation of Bhangra music worldwide.
We invite all our fans and well-wishers to join in the celebration. It is a momentous occasion that sumbolizes the power of dedication, unity, and the preservation of cultural art forms. En Karma’s milestone serves as a reminder that the unwavering passion, determination and the support of a vibrant community dreams can indeed be realized.
Source URL: https://enkarma.ca/en-karma-marks-a-milestone/
0 notes
chawlaband · 1 year
Text
Book Punjabi Bhangra Dhol and Bands for Weddings
Tumblr media
Hey are you looking for the best Punjabi Bhangra Dhol Wala in Delhi. If yes then your search end with Chawla Band. Chawla Band is one such Wedding Band service provider in Delhi that has maintained Indian standard of rhythm in the music they have been playing since years now. We provide band facilities for most of the occasions and celebrations across Delhi, rendering wide range of these services for Weddings and Receptions, Birthday Parties, Carnivals, Religious Programs and National Events. The best way to pump up the ultimate joy in your wedding party is to include Punjabi Bhangra dhol and bands for weddings. Punjabi weddings occupy a special place in our hearts with many extravagant jubilation and celebrations.
0 notes
itsstreetlove · 11 months
Photo
Tumblr media
Drumming for the Bhangra Smash Up Band
Birmingham ~ June 2023
48 notes · View notes
my-chaos-radio · 1 year
Text
youtube
Tumblr media
Release: March 17, 2017
Lyrics:
You know it's the place I need But you got me walking circles like a dog on a lead The doctors say I'm crazy, that I'm eight miles thick I'm like the taste of Macaroni on a seafood stick You got me switched on baby, like electric Eel And I'm tight with Axel Foley, that's just how I feel Like a grapefruit and a magic trick The prodigal son I'm walking I'm walking I'm walking I walk so quick
And it just don't mean a thing We've been waiting far too long We'll play it out again This is just my serenade
You're in love with a Psycho You're in love with a Psycho And there's nothing you can do about it I got you running all around it
You're in love with a Psycho You're in love with a Psycho And there's nothing you can do about it You're never gonna be without it
Jibber-jabber at the bargain booze Reciting Charles Bukowski, I got nothing to lose And I wait for you to follow me, to share my chips But you're walking You're walking You walk You walk so quick
Nobody's gonna take you there I stick around for the thousand yard stare I go to sleep in a duffle bag I'm never up, never down, down, down, down
You're in love with a Psycho You're in love with a Psycho And there's just nothing you can do about it I got you running all around it
You're in love with a Psycho You're in love with a Psycho And there's nothing you can do about it You never gonna be without it
Maybe this will be the fine solution Maybe this way, we'll find a solution But we're far too lost, we gotta find love
You're in love with a Psycho You're in love with a Psycho And there's nothing you can do about it I got you running all around it
You're in love with a Psycho Tu amor es muy loco And there's nothing you can do about You're never gonna be without it
Songwriter: Sergio Pizzorno
SongFacts:
This is a song by English alternative rock band Kasabian. It was released on 17 March 2017 as the first single from their sixth studio album, 'For Crying Out Loud' (2017). It peaked at No. 62 on the UK Singles Chart in 2017, the first time a lead single from a Kasabian album failed to reach the top 40 in the country. It was certified platinum by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) for chart sales exceeding 600,000 units in the UK in August 2022. It also won "Best Song of 2017" at the Q Awards.
The music video was heavily criticised in the UK media by mental health advocates and charities for reinforcing stereotypes around mental illness, and were branded by the director of the Time to Change mental health charity as "unhelpful, damaging, and disappointing".
The song received its first radio airplay on 17 March 2017, having leaked the day before. The song was also released on 17 March 2017 as a digital download, CD single, and 10" vinyl and made available on most streaming services. The single reached number 62 in the UK Singles Chart spending 5 weeks on the top 100 and reached number 24 on the Scottish Singles Chart.
Kasabian guitarist and songwriter Serge Pizzorno explained to The Independent, "The story of that song is a man or a woman who has visions of being the prodigal son, thinking he's friends with Axel Foley… having an argument outside an off-licence and reciting Bukowski to win back the person they love.
The song received mixed to positive reviews from critics upon release. Will Hankey from The Edge gave the song 3/5 stars, stating that the track "starts very well, opening with a Krautrock-like surge forward that soon anchors into Kasabian's familiar territory of live hip-hop beats [but] while this is amiable and still an enjoyable listen, the song still never really goes anywhere"
The music video for the single was released on 30 March 2017 and was directed by W.I.Z. It features frequent Kasabian collaborator Noel Fielding and actor Stephen Graham, as well as members of Kasabian and Bhangra dance group Four by Four. They all play inmates of the fictional West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum, a nod to the title of the band's third album.
5 notes · View notes
eurovision-revisited · 10 months
Text
Birmingham 1998 - The interval act and other performances
Tumblr media
For the interval, the BBC decided to go for something representative of modern Britain. At the time of the contest, the main spoken word radio station in the UK, BBC Radio 4 opened every day with a medley made up of UK folk tunes and pieces with associations with particular regions inside the UK.
This seems to be similar in thinking to the interval act. Several groups of musicians and dancers representing various cultures that make up the UK circa 1998 all performing an arrangement of Holst's 'Jupiter, Bringer of Jollity' Starting of with the inevitable group of Scottish pipers.
Tumblr media
There's a Welsh male voice choir, the Grimethorpe colliery brass band, an Irish harp and whistle. Hang on. Ireland? Yes Northern Ireland, but Ireland? This isn't 1921. But I suppose there's a significant and large Irish community within the UK, and the Good Friday Agreement has been voted on and signed, so we'll let it pass...
Tumblr media
..Bhangra dancers? Now it's feeling even more awkward. Yes, it's good to see not only Indian but representation at Eurovision and to acknowledge that Indian communities make up a significant and welcome part of a diverse UK population. Bhangra is especially big in Birmingham too, but aren't there some overtones of...
Tumblr media
...Zulu dancing? OK, it's time to say it. Colonialism. It's not intended. It's supposed to be a celebration of multiculturalism and inclusion, but looking at it from 2023, the sight of various cultures singing and dancing to a piece of music to which the words of Sir Cecil Spring Rice, "I Vow to Thee My Country", have been set, it feels like a final nationwide spasm of Empire.
Tumblr media
Vanessa Mae (from Singapore) and Lesley Garrett finish things off with the patriotic triumphant conclusion to the production.
It's a misfire - the arrangement is all over the place, trying to force different musical styles onto a 20th century classical piece in rapid-fire succession. The best thing about it is the magnificent blocking and control of camera angles that hide almost completely the movements of the large groups of musicians and dancers as they come and go from the stage.
They aimed for multiculturalism and inclusion and somehow missed. A rare bum note in what is overall a great production.
2 notes · View notes
randomvarious · 8 months
Text
Tumblr media Tumblr media
Today's compilation:
World of Music! Sampler 1997 World Music
I gotta say that I'm a bit put off by the term 'world music.' I think it's overly general and so non-specific that it basically means almost nothing. All music comes from this world that we live in, so when someone says that they like 'world music,' what exactly are they even referring to? Like, they might as well just be saying that they like music instead, right? Because trying to gather things like Latin jazz and bhangra under the same umbrella is basically pointless. It's like grouping doo wop and techno together. And not to mention that there's a whole hegemonic and patronizing aspect to the term too, as it tends to refer to music that exclusively doesn't come from most parts of either the US, Canada, Europe, or Australia. Everything else seems to be from a 'different' part of the world, i.e. mostly non-white—which actually represents a majority of the world!—and all of it just gets lumped in together 🤷‍♂️.
But with all that said though, being that this late 90s sampler from the UK's Nascente label consists of ten songs from ten wholly different genres that span most of the globe, the best way to refer to this specific release, in a shorthanded manner is, unfortunately, 'world music.'
Now, a lot of songs on this release seem to be plagued by a thing that I've complained about a few times before, and it's these horribly stuffy studio acoustics of the 80s and 90s that, for some reason, coursed through a whole lot of adult-oriented records. Maybe you don't know what I'm talking about exactly, but compare this album's opening track, Baaba Maal's "Demgalam" to a song that comes later, "Fato Consumado," by brilliant Brazilian musician Djavan, and I think you'll get an idea. "Fato Consumado" is from the mid-70s, but sonically, it sounds far superior to "Demgalam," which is from the late 80s, and seems to have so much warmth stripped from it.
But that Djavan song also happens to kick off a terrific three-track run within this album as well, because after his offering is an instrumental get-down from Cajun family band The Balfa Brothers, who provide an excellently rich blend of accordion and fiddle on "Acadien Two-Step," and following that is legendary Cuban jazz vocalist Celia Cruz, whose beautifully full voice, as well as the horns that accompany her, should really pierce your soul 😌.
Decent CD here with a few magnificent tunes on it, but it'd probably be a lot more enjoyable had the actual sound on some of these songs been of a higher quality, which is something that a significant portion of 80s and 90s music seems to suffer from 😕.
Highlights:
Djavan - "Fato Consumado" The Balfa Brothers - "Acadien Two-Step" Celia Cruz - "Melao de caña"
3 notes · View notes
dhaliwalmanjit · 2 days
Video
youtube
Sajana by Harvey Sahota and The Live Crew Band UK Bhangra Award Winners
0 notes
akashkumarsharma · 2 months
Text
Rajasthani Bhavai Dance Group
 At Shivji Dholi Rajasthani Group, we take pride in our reputation for delivering captivating performances that showcase the diverse tapestry of Indian folk dances. Specializing in Bhangra, Giddha, Dandiya, Garba, and Lavani, our proficient troupe, under the expert guidance of Hansraj Dholi, breathes life into each dance form, captivating audiences with their precision and panache.
What sets us apart is not just our skillful execution, but our unwavering passion for preserving the authenticity and richness of Indian folk traditions. With every twirl, beat, and step, we endeavor to transport our audiences into the heart of India’s cultural tapestry.
Join us on a journey where tradition meets innovation, and where the spirit of folk dance is kept alive with dedication and flair. Shivji Dholi Rajasthani Group is not just a dance troupe; it’s a celebration of India’s vibrant heritage through the mesmerizing language of movement. Come, experience the magic with us.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Rajasthan’s cultural heritage with our esteemed ensemble of Rajasthani folk performers. From soul-stirring melodies to exhilarating dance routines, our Rajasthani Folk Fusion Band captivates audiences with its eclectic mix of traditional tunes and contemporary flair. Led by seasoned artists, our Rajasthani Folk Music Group showcases the rich musical traditions of the region, while our Rajasthani Folk Dance Group brings the essence of Rajasthan to life through mesmerizing choreography and intricate footwork.
Step into a world of enchantment with our Kalbeliya Folk Dance Group, as they weave tales of love and nature through graceful movements and haunting melodies. For a taste of royal elegance, experience the regal splendor of our Rajasthani Bhavai Dance Group and the vibrant energy of our Rajasthani Chari Dance Group.
As the top Rajasthani Folk Dance Troupe, we offer the best in folk dance and music services, perfect for weddings and special events. Let the rhythmic beats of our Rajasthani Kachchhi Ghodi Folk Dance Group and the spirited performances of our Rajasthani Gair Dance Group infuse your celebrations with joy and tradition.
For a truly unforgettable experience, witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of our Agni Nritya Folk Dance Group as they mesmerize audiences with their daring feats of fire manipulation. And no wedding is complete without the melodious strains of our Rajasthani Folk Singers, whose voices echo with the joys and celebrations of love.
Join us as we celebrate Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage with our talented ensemble of performers, ranging from the lively rhythms of the Ghoomar Folk Dance Group to the intricate movements of the Tera Tali Dance Group. Whether you’re planning a wedding or simply seeking an immersive cultural experience, our group of Marwadi Singers and Shehnai Group for Wedding are sure to delight and enchant. Experience the magic of Rajasthan with us today!
0 notes
en-karma · 1 month
Text
Enkarma: Spreading International Beats to North America and Beyond
Enkarma stands as a beacon of unity and celebration, spreading international beats to North America and beyond. Through their innovative fusion of South Asian and Western influences, the band transcends cultural boundaries, bringing people together in celebration of music's universal language. As they continue on their journey, Enkarma inspires audiences to embrace their own cultural heritage while also embracing the beauty and diversity of the world around them.
0 notes
luxurypropertiesworld · 4 months
Text
Things to watch out for at the Republic Day parade Introduction
The Republic Day parade stands as a symbol of India's sovereignty and diverse cultural heritage. As the nation unites to commemorate this significant day, there are numerous captivating elements that spectators should keep an eye on. Let's delve into the heart of the celebration and uncover the top highlights that make the Republic Day parade an unforgettable experience.
Tumblr media
A Visual Feast: Grand Military Formations
Witness the precision and discipline of the Indian armed forces as they showcase their might through intricate military formations. The parade kicks off with a breathtaking display of tanks, artillery, and personnel marching in perfect unison, reflecting the strength and unity of the nation's defence.
  The Triumphant March of the Armed Forces
Marvel at the synchronized steps of the army, navy, and air force personnel as they march down Rajpath, exuding an aura of pride and dedication. The impeccable coordination and regalia of the armed forces are a sight to behold, embodying the spirit of India's defence prowess.
  Cultural Extravaganza: Diverse State Tableaux
Explore the kaleidoscope of India's cultural diversity through the vibrant state tableaux that grace the parade. Each state presents a unique display of traditional art, music, and dance, offering a visual panorama that celebrates the rich tapestry of the nation's heritage.
  Folk Dances and Traditional Attire
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Indian folk dances, with performers adorned in colourful traditional attire. From the energetic Bhangra of Punjab to the graceful Odissi of Odisha, the cultural diversity on display is a testament to India's unity in diversity.
  Precision in the Air: Flypast by the Indian Air Force
Look to the skies as the Indian Air Force executes a breathtaking flypast, featuring a variety of aircraft in precise formations. From fighter jets painting the sky in tricolour to awe-inspiring aerobatic manoeuvres, the aerial display adds an exhilarating dimension to the Republic Day celebrations.
  Acrobatic Stunts and Aerial Maneuvers
Be thrilled by the daredevilry of skilled pilots as they perform acrobatic stunts and gravity-defying aerial manoeuvres. The flypast not only showcases the technological prowess of the Indian Air Force but also leaves spectators in awe of the courage and skill of the pilots.
  Presidential Elegance: Flag Hoisting and Speech
Anticipate the historic moment when the President of India unfurls the national flag, marking the commencement of the parade. The President's address follows, outlining the country's achievements, challenges, and aspirations, setting the tone for the year ahead.
  National Anthem and Patriotic Fervor
Participate in the collective pride as the entire gathering stands in unity to sing the national anthem. The resonance of "Jana Gana Mana" echoing through the air creates a powerful and emotional atmosphere, reinforcing the spirit of patriotism.
  Spectacular Show of Technology: Military Hardware Display
Gaze upon the impressive array of military hardware on display, showcasing India's advancements in defence technology. From state-of-the-art missile systems to formidable armoured vehicles, the exhibition highlights the nation's commitment to security and innovation.
  Tanks, Missiles, and Cutting-Edge Equipment
Get up close to the formidable arsenal of the Indian armed forces, featuring battle tanks, ballistic missiles, and other cutting-edge equipment. The military hardware display underscores India's preparedness and technological prowess on the global stage.
  Things to Watch Out for at the Republic Day Parade
Amidst the grandeur of the Republic Day parade, there are specific aspects that spectators should pay close attention to for an enriched experience.
  1. Precision Marching Bands: Revel in the musical prowess of the marching bands accompanying the parade, adding a rhythmic and melodic element to the spectacle.
2. Ceremonial Salutes: Observe the ceremonial salutes rendered by the armed forces, symbolizing respect, discipline, and honour.
3. Decorated State Capitals: Take note of the intricate decorations adorning the state capitals' tableaux, representing the unique identity and culture of each region.
4. Awards and Recognitions: Stay tuned for the announcements of awards and recognitions during the parade, acknowledging exceptional contributions to the nation.
5. Cultural Emissaries: Appreciate the presence of cultural emissaries from various countries, fostering diplomatic and cultural ties on this prestigious occasion.
6. Innovative Float Designs: Marvel at the creativity behind the float designs, depicting historical events, social issues, and cultural themes.
0 notes
shoonyaband · 5 months
Text
Exploring the Best Live Music Events in Vadodara
Vadodara is one of the most vibrant cities in India and is known for its vibrant live music scene. The city boasts some of the best live music venues in the country and attracts a variety of talented musicians from all over India. From classical music to jazz, rock, and Bhangra music, Vadodara offers an eclectic mix of live music genres and performances.
The Bhavai Garden is an excellent starting point for discovering Vadodara’s live music scene. The Best live music in Vadodara can be found in this garden, which frequently hosts both local and national performers. These locations offer great settings for live music experiences, ranging from spacious auditoriums to more cosy music lounges.
The Garden is home to some of the most popular live music festivals in the city. The annual Navratri Music Festival, for example, is one of the largest and most popular cultural events in Vadodara. This festival attracts huge crowds with both classical and traditional music genres being represented.
For those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere to enjoy live music, the Garden also plays host to a range of small and medium-sized events. These typically take place in the late afternoon and feature both local and national acts. These venues are perfect for creating a chilled-out atmosphere and give music-lovers a chance to truly soak up the atmosphere.
Vadodara’s live music venues don’t just focus on traditional and classical music. The city is also home to some of the best bars and restaurants where live music performances can be enjoyed. From pubs and lounges to restaurants and cafes, Vadodara has something for everyone in terms of its live music scene. These venues often feature a variety of different genres, and even host open mic nights for those who want to perform their own music.
Finally, it would be remiss not to mention the incredible outdoor venues in Vadodara. These venues often host live music events in the evenings, and are great for those looking to experience the city’s amazing atmosphere and culture. Whether it’s a live rock concert or a traditional Bhangra performance, you’re sure to find something that will keep you entertained.
All in all, Vadodara is a great destination for anyone looking to experience great Famous live Band. From traditional performances to modern concerts, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. With its excellent venues and a variety of music genres, Vadodara is sure to provide an unforgettable live music experience.
1 note · View note
chawlaband · 1 year
Text
Punjabi Bhangra Dhol | Dhol Wala in Delhi - Chawla Band
Punjabi Bhangra Dhol in Delhi
Music is in the blood of Indians; no matter the occasion, you like to celebrate it with the blast of music. Therefore, to do this, people often call different discos or bands and many more. However, many people like Punjabi bhangra dhol when it comes to occasions with their family or friends.
Punjabi Bhangra dhol is one of the essential instruments that Indians like to play when it comes to festivals and marriages, or occasions. Therefore, if you are willing to buy bhangra dhol in Delhi, you might want to have a detailed guide before buying a dhol.
Punjabi Dhol in Delhi is played with two sticks and is very popular with the younger generation today. Therefore, there are several factors to consider when considering buying a Bhangra Drum. Consider affordability and budget, market availability, and facts about Dhol.
Tumblr media
The thing to consider before making a purchase of Punjabi dhol in Delhi
Bhangra traditional music is something that not only the old generation likes, but the newer generation is also in love with the rhythm. Therefore, you can easily encounter the need amongst the younger generation to own bhangra as their greatest possession.
Further, the music of the Dhol is what you are buying it for. Hence, the rhythm of the Dhol is an extremely important factor to understand. Therefore, the beat of the Dhol is what makes the music so joyous and spiritual. So, consider the music while buying the Dhol. However, if you put your faith in Chawla Band, you will get the best quality Dhol.
Before buying a Punjabi dhol in Delhi, you shall understand what your needs are by asking these questions to yourself. For instance, do you want just to learn to play Dhol? Or are you a beginner trying to set your hands over the instrument? Or you are a professional who wants to use this instrument to play at functions and occasions. You can be any of these; you should rethink your goals. After asking yourself these questions, you can consider these factors for your purchase.
The Material of the Dhol
Before you decide to buy a Punjabi dhol from a dhol wala in Delhi, you shall go through the details about what kind of material you want for your Dhol. The magic of the Dhol relies on the bass of the Dhol, and it can go on a toss if it isn’t good.
You can understand the feelings of a Punjabi who unites with their folk dancing troop through a piece drum. Moreover, anyone can understand the power and possession they owe while dancing the bhangra.
Choosing a dhol that has the quality of beat is necessary to maintain the spirit. Therefore, consider buying a dhol that is made of pure Sheesham. However, over the years, Sheesham dhols have become extremely expensive. Hence, now you can try to invest your money in these three materials, which range from expensive to less expensive.
Ripe Sheesham
This wood is one of the most aged woods on the list. In addition, it is one of the densest and most expensive dhol types on the list. Hence, if you are into bold and superb sounds, you can buy this type.
These Punjabi dhols are highly durable for one person. The color of this Dhol is dark, and you can see dark grains running through it. However, being the most expensive on the list, you shall think before investing your money in the piece of Dhol.
Raw/ripe Sheesham
Raw and Ripe or Kachi pakki Sheesham is extremely popular amongst dhol players. These dhols are somewhat dark and yellowish, often appearing as a gradient type. They have a less dense quality than the first one on the list. However, they have a bold bass that can rock the area for good.
Mango wood
Mango woods are good quality but inferior to the others on the list. Hence, professional players may not consider buying these. However, a block of mango wood is good for beginners who want to learn to play dhols for the first time. The Dhol is not as bold as the other two in the list.
Tumblr media
Parts of the Dhol
When considering investing your money, Punjabi bhangra dhol considers having a note over the parts that are mostly used in dhols. Therefore, you shall have a thorough detail over hooks, nuts, penny washer, tension ring, internal washer, and many more. In addition, you shall also understand the skin and ropes that are used in the Dhol, as it greatly affects the sound.
Conclusion
As Indians, we all love music in our day-to-day life as well as on occasion. However, some of you may like to call DJs, and others may like to incline more toward traditional music. Further, some of you may like Punjabi bhangra dhol in your functions to create hype. Therefore, this article can help you choose the best dhol wala in Delhi according to your needs.
0 notes
itsstreetlove · 11 months
Photo
Tumblr media
Bhangra Smash Up Band
Harborne Carnival  ~ Birmingham 2023
45 notes · View notes
printandmatter · 7 months
Text
Tumblr media
Print and Matter 2023: CALL FOR APPLICATIONS
Session Dates for Print and Matter: 1-4pm: 18th Nov, 2nd and 16th Dec, 6th Jan
Location: The Old Print Works, 498-506 Moseley Rd, Balsall Heath, Birmingham B12
Eligibility: Over 18 and must not be in full-time education. Applications are very welcome from anyone who is interested in the workshop series but we especially encourage those with South Asian heritage or living close to The Old Print Works (B12) to apply. 
Cost: Free
Deadline for applications: 27th October 2023
Application decisions will be made by 3rd November 2023
Print and matter is back! For this edition we’re teaming up with True Form Projects (https://www.trueformprojects.com/)  and drawing inspiration from record sleeve artwork from their collection to explore art, design and printmaking. The collection centres around South Asian music from the 80s and was rescued from Balsall Heath’s very own Oriental Star Records when it closed in the 2017. The shop had been pivotal for the distribution of music and audio including nasheeds, qawwali, bhangra, classical, ghazals and many more genres. The collection is one of the largest of the music of South Asia in the UK and was also an important site for the distribution of music being made by South Asian diaspora in Birmingham and beyond. 
Print and Matter workshops (4 in total) will take place fortnightly on Saturdays across November - January. Sessions will explore printmaking techniques (including risograph printing), the use of image, text and pattern in album artwork and participants will be encouraged to create work inspired by their own heritage and the local area. By the end of the workshop series, participants should be equipped to make their own record sleeve, it could be for a nasheed band, favourite musician or fictional band. 
Print and Matter is free and we welcome applications from anyone interested in the workshop series. We especially encourage those with South Asian heritage or living close to The Old Print Works (B12) to apply. While the workshop series is free, participants are expected to attend all 4 sessions so please ensure you are available for the dates before applying. 
If you struggle with writing, feel free to answer the below questions in bullet points or make a video/audio recording answering all the questions instead and add a link at the end of the form (write ‘video below’ in sections where a written response is indicated as *required).  
———-CLICK HERE FOR APPLICATION FORM———
You can learn more about Print and Matter here- https://printandmatter.tumblr.com/. Print and Matter is an OOMK/Rabbits Road Press project.  
0 notes
randomvarious · 1 year
Photo
Tumblr media Tumblr media
Today’s compilation:
Totally Hits 2001 2001 R&B / Hip Hop / Pop / Pop-Rock
Fuuuuuuck, man. Can we please just go back to the year 2001? Y'know, before *the big main event* happened? Top 40 and hip hop/R&B radio were sooo good back then!! 😭
And here's an excellent collection of radio bops to prove it, put out by Totally Hits, the main, always-runner-up to the ever-dominant Now That's What I Call Music! series. I feel like a lot of people aren't aware of this, but, while the US run of the Now series was originally made up of a partnership between Universal and EMI and all their many subsidiaries, Totally Hits was its answer, provided by BMG and Warner Bros. and all of their subsidiaries. (And BMG also includes Sony, mind you.) So, while Now always outsold Totally Hits and released their albums more frequently, and also had a bigger pool of pop songs to pick from, Totally Hits definitely wasn't a slouch either, especially with this 2001 installment; they had plenty of goods to offer that Now couldn't.
But I don't even know where to start with this thing. Like, nearly all of this CD holds a special place in my heart. Those classic strings from Blu Cantrell's "Hit 'Em Up (Oops!)" ignite and my inner child just immediately activates 🥺.
So I guess I'll just pepper this post with some observations and fun facts about a bunch of these songs then...
Diddy and co.'s "Bad Boy for Life" still bangs hard to this very day. Its beat sounds just as nuts now as it did the day when it first came out 21+ years ago. I mean, I’ve still yet to hear anything else quite like it. And it was made by this dude Megahertz, who also produced Nas' "Got Ur Self a Gun" in the same year. And while the song only peaked at #33 on Billboard’s Hot 100, its “there goes the neighborhood”-themed music video was in *super* heavy rotation on MTV and featured an extended cameo from Ben Stiller, along with other cameos from Xzibit, Ice Cube, Snoop Dogg, Shaq, Mike Tyson, Baron Davis, Travis Barker, Dave Navarro, Access Hollywood’s Pat O’Brien, Fonzworth Bentley, fucking Crazy Town, and weirdly enough, the character actor Richard Dunn, who’d wind up playing a bunch of different roles on Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job! some years later.
Does anyone else remember that early 2000s rap and R&B fad that was obsessed with making South Asian-sounding beats? Did Timbaland start that whole trend with Missy Elliott's bhangra-infused "Get Ur Freak On"? I could be wrong, but it feels like he did? 🤔
Here's what I think is the most slept-on song out of this entire slate: the remix of Dream's "This Is Me." I actually totally forgot that this song even existed, but this CD helped jog my memory. Do you even remember Dream? No, not The-Dream, but Dream; the ultimately fleeting female R&B and pop quartet that were most famous for that song "He Loves U Not." Anyway, they were on Bad Boy and Mario Winans took the original version of "This Is Me" and remixed it to include a sample of the bells from Bob James' "Take Me to the Mardi Gras," which is one of those samples I go nuts for every time I hear it. I first heard it in Snap!'s "The Power" and I've loved it dearly ever since. It also appears towards the end of Missy Elliott’s “Work It.”
Those who call Eve 6 a one-hit wonder are just flat-out wrong. "Here's to the Night," a soft, Police-inspired follow-up to the catharsis of “Inside Out” (the “heart in a blender” song), only placed two spots below it on the Hot 100.
It’s really funny and interesting how Uncle Kracker (what a stupid name) came out of the Kid Rock milieu as the turntablist in his backing band (lmao), and then, despite being a rapper, rose to immense adult contemporary fame with “Follow Me” and then a cover of Dobie Gray’s “Drift Away” (🎶Give me the beat boys and free my soul🎶). It also seems like Kid Rock kinda followed in his footsteps too, dropping his brash, working class, trailer park asshole gimmick for a quick sec to make “Picture” with Sheryl Crow the following year 🤔.
Remember “I Do!!” by Toya? It was her only hit, but that catchy, midtempo R&B groove was 🔥. Produced by this guy Antoine “Bam” Macon, who then went on to co-produce Nelly and Kelly Rowland’s “Dilemma.” Toya would release one more single after this one, which didn’t fare too well, and then she’d appear on Cam’Ron’s 2002 classic, “Hey Ma,” before falling all the way off.
We gotta talk about Willa Ford too. It shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone that the people who produced “I Wanna Be Bad” also produced a bunch of songs for Britney Spears as well. Willa says she wasn’t trying to copy Britney, but damn, does this sound like a Britney song! Also, what on earth is Eminem friend-and-foe-and-friend-again Royce da 5′9″ doing on this?!?!?
           Oh yeah, and we can’t ignore this from Willa either:
Tumblr media
That article was then followed up with this:
Tumblr media
Which then allows for the perfect use of this meme:
Tumblr media
Is there a stronger trio of singles to come from a rap album than the one that came from OutKast’s Stankonia? I mean, how can you beat “B.O.B.,” “Ms. Jackson,” and “So Fresh, So Clean”? I really don’t think you can. The production group of Organized Noize had a large hand in OutKast’s first four albums, and one of their members, Sleepy Brown, also provides the falsetto parts on the chorus for “So Fresh, So Clean.”
Why wasn’t Craig David a bigger thing in the US? He could’ve been our British R&B king, but he only wound up with two successful singles here with “Fill Me In” and “7 Days.” “7 Days” actually performed better on the Hot 100, but I feel like “Fill Me In” is far more remembered in the States. Anyway, despite his brief showing here, he managed to stay relevant all the way into the 2010s back home. Awesome voice and great beats.
Lastly, Dido’s “Thank You.” This song took such a long path to reach #3 on the Hot 100. It actually first came out in 1998, appearing on the soundtrack to an indie flick called Sliding Doors that starred Gwyneth Paltrow. Then, in ‘99, it was included on Dido’s debut album, No Angel. Following that, Eminem released The Marshall Mathers LP in 2000, which included “Stan,” a song that made the chorus from “Thank You” its own. Naturally, that helped to increased the popularity of “Thank You” itself and Dido then released it as a single in September of 2000. Then a couple months later, Eminem released “Stan” as a single too. Finally, in January of 2001, “Thank You” entered the Hot 100 at the #80 spot, and by April it had climbed all the way up to #3. It then stayed on the chart until September and became one of the biggest hits of 2001.
What a fucking nostalgia rush this whole thing was. Radio was at its absolute peak in these days. Just so many good and fun songs. Take me back! 
More of these installments from Totally Hits and Now in the near offing, so if you enjoyed this post, stay tuned!
Highlights:
Blu Cantrell - "Hit 'Em Up Style (Oops!)" 112 - "Peaches & Cream" Missy Elliott - "Get Ur Freak On" P. Diddy, Black Rob and Mark Curry - "Bad Boy for Life" Dream feat. Kain - "This Is Me (Remix)" Usher - "U Remind Me" O-Town - "All or Nothing" Eve 6 - "Here's to the Night" Uncle Kracker - "Follow Me" LFO - "Every Other Time" Sugar Ray - "When It's Over" Willa Ford - "I Wanna Be Bad" Toya - "I Do!!" OutKast - "So Fresh, So Clean" Ludacris feat. Shawna - "What's Your Fantasy" Craig David - "Fill Me In" Dido - "Thank You"
P.S.: I wrote a long Twitter thread about almost all of the songs on this album. I only covered a little more than half of them here in this post, so if you want more observations and fun trivia, check it out!
10 notes · View notes