Where artists and fans come together.
Joes Lounge is a tight knit community of super fans who are able to share personal stories, videos and pictures celebrating the legacy of Joe.
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- Interact with Nick Sample and key members close to Joe,
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- Gain access to exclusive audio content never released to the public,
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Not only is Meshell a profound bassist, her writing in eloquent street style lyrics, poetry and her knowledge of harmonies and melody make a worthwhile opportunity to binge listen. Meshell Ndegeocello's 1993 debut album, PLANTATION LULLABIES (Maverick), and the 3 ways she makes a perfect groove on 3 different instruments in one song (3 bass lines!). In this content piece it is broken down what makes her playing style so unique and personal and shout out her supporting cast on the record, including the amazing Luis Conte, pianist Bobby Lyle, and the great guitarist Wah-Wah Watson. This funk, soul, jazz, alternative, hip hop record set the table for all of neo-soul and blazed a trail for one of the baddest bassists of the last 30 years.
Get ready to be mesmerized by the deep grooves of "Rush Over," a standout track featuring the unparalleled talents of Me'Shell Ndegeocello and Marcus Miller. This composition transcends simple bass play, incorporating bass clarinet, growling synths, and velvety vocals into a rich musical landscape. The track is a testament to the power of low frequencies, creating a sonic experience that not only captures the listener's ear but also compels the body to sway in rhythm. It's a perfect blend of technique and emotion, showcasing the artists' mastery over their instruments and their ability to push the boundaries of traditional bass music.
We're on the hunt for a legendary piece of music history: a lost MTV interview featuring the one and only MeShell Ndegeocello. In this hidden gem, MeShell wasn't just gracing our screens with her infectious grooves - she was also sharing her love of literature, giving fans a glimpse into the books that fuel her creative fire.
Here's the challenge:
1. Scour the internet, music forums, and fan communities to track down this lost interview clips.
2. If you find them, submit the footage links (or any credible leads) to us via Instagram.
The rewards for a true music detective?
Unearth both clips: The first person will be hailed as a hero in the MeShell Ndegeocello fanbase and walk away with a special gift basket worth $45.
So, what are you waiting for? Unleash your inner music sleuth and help us rediscover this lost gem! The fate of these interviews rests in our hands… together, we can bring these music history artifacts back to light!
In her latest masterpiece, "Clear Water," Meshell Ndegeocello crafts a soundscape that delves deep into the realms of personal reflection and musical innovation. Drawing inspiration from the profound emotional shifts following the loss of her parents, Meshell merges the nostalgic echoes of her family's vinyl collection with the modern vibrancy of current production techniques. The track is a nod to Sly Stone, blending soul-searching lyrics with a lush, immersive sound that captures the essence of introspection and transformation."
Clear Water" is not just a song; it's a journey through Meshell's life, reflecting on how rapidly life can change perspectives and identities. The track serves as a musical homage to her heritage, with references to the jazz, funk, and blues records that colored her childhood, captured in the cherished Omnichord—an instrument emblematic of her father's influence on her musical path. This album is described as an exploration of seeing old things in new ways, a theme that resonates deeply in her music, which combines traditional elements with innovative production to create a fresh yet familiar auditory experience.
For enthusiasts seeking a profound musical experience, "Clear Water" offers a gateway into Meshell's personal narrative, interwoven with universal themes of loss, legacy, and the perpetual motion of life. This track, and the album it belongs to, promises to engage listeners with its intricate melodies and poignant lyrics, serving as a reminder of the transformative power of music in navigating the complexities of life and legacy.
Explore the essential Meshell Ndegeocello, with this curated Spotify playlist that spans the impressive breadth of Meshell Ndegeocello's musical catalog. This collection features a dynamic range of her work, from soulful ballads to hard-hitting funk tracks, each song showcasing her innovative approach to music and mastery of the bass guitar. Perfect for longtime fans and newcomers alike, this playlist is a vibrant celebration of Ndegeocello's enduring influence in the music world.
Step inside the eclectic universe of Meshell Ndegeocello with Amoeba Music's latest "What's In My Bag?" feature. This is no ordinary shopping spree—Meshell, known for her deep musical insights and literary acumen, selects records and reads that shape her artistic vision. Picture a personal tour through the Louvre, led by Meshell herself, revealing hidden masterpieces and engaging in profound discussions on art's core. This video offers a unique window into her world, blending her musical tastes with her inspirations. Dive into this intimate exploration and experience the creative journey of a true artistic maverick.
This playlist is inspired by Meshell Ndegeocello's Amoeba Music shopping experience. While some of her original selections are not available on Spotify, thoughtful substitutes have been chosen to maintain the essence of her picks. Dive into this curated collection and explore the sounds that resonate with Meshell's unique artistic taste.
Featured in the acclaimed Sessions at West 54th, Meshell Ndegeocello's performance captures the essence of her musical journey, one that began in the vibrant cultural milieu of Washington DC, infused with the soulful sounds of the 1970s. Raised on a rich diet of classic soul radio, Meshell's early exposure to music ignited a deep love for the bass, an instrument that would become her voice and vessel through which she explores and transcends musical boundaries.
Meshell, whose name means "free like a bird" in Swahili, truly embodies this spirit of freedom in her approach to music. Her performance on Sessions at West 54th, hosted by Chris Douridas, showcases her ability to blend genres and influences seamlessly, creating a sound that is not only innovative but also deeply rooted in musical tradition. Her mastery of the bass and her ability to weave complex harmonies and melodies are on full display, eliciting reactions that range from mesmerized silence to spontaneous groove-inspired facial expressions.
This footage is a treasure for fans and newcomers alike, offering a visual and auditory experience that is both hypnotizing and uplifting. Meshell's performance is a testament to her status as a musical pioneer, unafraid to push the limits and constantly redefine the boundaries of what music can be. Her presence on stage—commanding yet unassuming—complements the gritty, soul-stirring grooves that make her music irresistibly badass.
Calling all Funk Freaks! Did you know there's a hidden gem out there - a stunning rendition of the legendary George Clinton's "Atomic Dog"? It takes that greasy, gritty groove to a whole new level.
Imagine this: you're ready to unwind after a long day. Your favorite beverage (adult or otherwise) is in hand, and you're craving some seriously funky tunes. Hit play on this "Atomic Dog" cover, and prepare to be transported to a sonic wonderland for a blissful 8 minutes and 53 seconds. Trust me, you won't regret it.
Bonus: This is a deep cut even for Me'Shell Ndegéocello fans (like yours truly!). So dive in, discover something amazing!
Not only is Meshell a profound bassist, her writing in eloquent street style lyrics, poetry and her knowledge of harmonies and melody make a worthwhile opportunity to binge listen. Meshell Ndegeocello's 1993 debut album, PLANTATION LULLABIES (Maverick), and the 3 ways she makes a perfect groove on 3 different instruments in one song (3 bass lines!). In this content piece it is broken down what makes her playing style so unique and personal and shout out her supporting cast on the record, including the amazing Luis Conte, pianist Bobby Lyle, and the great guitarist Wah-Wah Watson. This funk, soul, jazz, alternative, hip hop record set the table for all of neo-soul and blazed a trail for one of the baddest bassists of the last 30 years.
In her latest masterpiece, "Clear Water," Meshell Ndegeocello crafts a soundscape that delves deep into the realms of personal reflection and musical innovation. Drawing inspiration from the profound emotional shifts following the loss of her parents, Meshell merges the nostalgic echoes of her family's vinyl collection with the modern vibrancy of current production techniques. The track is a nod to Sly Stone, blending soul-searching lyrics with a lush, immersive sound that captures the essence of introspection and transformation."
Clear Water" is not just a song; it's a journey through Meshell's life, reflecting on how rapidly life can change perspectives and identities. The track serves as a musical homage to her heritage, with references to the jazz, funk, and blues records that colored her childhood, captured in the cherished Omnichord—an instrument emblematic of her father's influence on her musical path. This album is described as an exploration of seeing old things in new ways, a theme that resonates deeply in her music, which combines traditional elements with innovative production to create a fresh yet familiar auditory experience.
For enthusiasts seeking a profound musical experience, "Clear Water" offers a gateway into Meshell's personal narrative, interwoven with universal themes of loss, legacy, and the perpetual motion of life. This track, and the album it belongs to, promises to engage listeners with its intricate melodies and poignant lyrics, serving as a reminder of the transformative power of music in navigating the complexities of life and legacy.
Featured in the acclaimed Sessions at West 54th, Meshell Ndegeocello's performance captures the essence of her musical journey, one that began in the vibrant cultural milieu of Washington DC, infused with the soulful sounds of the 1970s. Raised on a rich diet of classic soul radio, Meshell's early exposure to music ignited a deep love for the bass, an instrument that would become her voice and vessel through which she explores and transcends musical boundaries.
Meshell, whose name means "free like a bird" in Swahili, truly embodies this spirit of freedom in her approach to music. Her performance on Sessions at West 54th, hosted by Chris Douridas, showcases her ability to blend genres and influences seamlessly, creating a sound that is not only innovative but also deeply rooted in musical tradition. Her mastery of the bass and her ability to weave complex harmonies and melodies are on full display, eliciting reactions that range from mesmerized silence to spontaneous groove-inspired facial expressions.
This footage is a treasure for fans and newcomers alike, offering a visual and auditory experience that is both hypnotizing and uplifting. Meshell's performance is a testament to her status as a musical pioneer, unafraid to push the limits and constantly redefine the boundaries of what music can be. Her presence on stage—commanding yet unassuming—complements the gritty, soul-stirring grooves that make her music irresistibly badass.
Step inside the eclectic universe of Meshell Ndegeocello with Amoeba Music's latest "What's In My Bag?" feature. This is no ordinary shopping spree—Meshell, known for her deep musical insights and literary acumen, selects records and reads that shape her artistic vision. Picture a personal tour through the Louvre, led by Meshell herself, revealing hidden masterpieces and engaging in profound discussions on art's core. This video offers a unique window into her world, blending her musical tastes with her inspirations. Dive into this intimate exploration and experience the creative journey of a true artistic maverick.
Get ready to be mesmerized by the deep grooves of "Rush Over," a standout track featuring the unparalleled talents of Me'Shell Ndegeocello and Marcus Miller. This composition transcends simple bass play, incorporating bass clarinet, growling synths, and velvety vocals into a rich musical landscape. The track is a testament to the power of low frequencies, creating a sonic experience that not only captures the listener's ear but also compels the body to sway in rhythm. It's a perfect blend of technique and emotion, showcasing the artists' mastery over their instruments and their ability to push the boundaries of traditional bass music.
Calling all Funk Freaks! Did you know there's a hidden gem out there - a stunning rendition of the legendary George Clinton's "Atomic Dog"? It takes that greasy, gritty groove to a whole new level.
Imagine this: you're ready to unwind after a long day. Your favorite beverage (adult or otherwise) is in hand, and you're craving some seriously funky tunes. Hit play on this "Atomic Dog" cover, and prepare to be transported to a sonic wonderland for a blissful 8 minutes and 53 seconds. Trust me, you won't regret it.
Bonus: This is a deep cut even for Me'Shell Ndegéocello fans (like yours truly!). So dive in, discover something amazing!
Collaboration is one of Thundercat’s biggest strengths, and as a bassist, his ability to seamlessly work with other artists to produce musical genius is unmatched. For this piece, we uncovered Mac DeMarco’s secret YouTube account, CAM TONY 26, where he live-streamed sessions with various artists. Few sessions are as iconic as the one featuring Mac DeMarco, Mac Miller, and Thundercat.
The 15-minute live stream offers a perfect fly-on-the-wall experience, showcasing their genius and ability to improvise and jam together. This rare footage highlights Thundercat's collaborative prowess and the magic that occurs when great musicians come together.
When Rolling Stone compiled their list of the greatest bassists of all time, it featured many expected names like James Jamerson and Bootsy Collins in the top five. The list sparked some debate over the placement of various artists, but it was generally agreed that it included the finest bassists in music history. Unexpectedly, Thundercat was ranked 50th on the list, just behind Duff McKagan of Guns N' Roses. This inclusion underscores Thundercat’s significant respect within the industry, highlighting his exceptional talent and influence as a bassist. His ranking alongside such legendary figures reflects his impact on modern music and his recognition among the greatest bassists of all time.
Thundercat's 2020 album It Is What It Is received widespread acclaim for its intricate blend of jazz, funk, and R&B, showcasing his musical dexterity and emotional depth. The album features notable collaborations with artists like Steve Lacy, Ty Dolla $ign, and Childish Gambino, and includes standout tracks such as "Dragonball Durag," "Black Qualls," and "Fair Chance."
It Is What It Is was critically successful, making it to numerous year-end lists, including Consequence of Sound's Top 50 Albums of 2020 (ranked 14th) and Exclaim!'s 50 Best Albums of 2020 (ranked 12th). The album also saw commercial success, with tracks like "Dragonball Durag" becoming viral hits and significantly boosting Thundercat's presence in the music industry. The album's blend of complex musical arrangements and heartfelt lyrics has solidified Thundercat's reputation as a leading figure in modern jazz and funk music
Best served with family and friends.
If anchovies, shrimp, sausage and bacon sound like pasta heaven to you then this is a must try recipe. We know you will have as much fun making it as you do tasting it and that this meal brings you as much joy as it brought to Joe's home and family.
If you ever pay attention to Joe’s piano performance you would notice his shoulders leaning into the notes and the chords, creating a passion both delicate and driving. As a piano player using both hands, the only way to conduct a band is through their shoulders, something he was a master of.
Joes love for the original Fender Rhodes:
Joe learned of Fender Rhodes selling the brand to CBS, at the same time he also heard Stevie Wonder was down at the factory and had just bought 8 Fender Rhodes. Concerned there may be changes to the keyboard due to new ownership, Joe rush to the factory himself and proceeded to buy three units: one for touring, one for the studio, and one for parts.
Lyrics:
“I still hang around neither lost nor found, hear the lonely sound of music in the night. Nights are always bright, that's all that's left for me, yeah I play the street life because there's no place I can go. Street life, it's the only way I know, street life”
The inspiration for this song came from the beginner’s ski slope at Mammoth Mountain in California. Joe Sample observed people falling and running into each other, causing absolute chaos. He likened it to a “boulevard of madness” and came up with the idea for “Street Life.”
Sample teamed up with lyricist Will Jennings, who wrote the lyrics based on Hollywood Boulevard.
Other notable songs written by Joe Sample and Will Jennings and performed by Randy Crawford include “One Day I’ll Fly Away,” “Last Night at Danceland,” and “When Your Life Was Low.”
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