Lets Talk About It...

Harmonie Soule Live ... on 2-12-11 Performance

2011-02-01T11:08:00.006-06:00

DJ C Love, 1Entertainment Magazine, and Talent Beyond Belief presents “Cocktails and Conversation” “The Hump Day Edition” powered by Platnium Tax Services, Kendra Gregory the Make up Artist, Tru’Angl, and Simply Sensational!!

Sounds by DJ Passion
&
Soulful voice of
Harmonie Soule performing LIVE!!!

1409 S Lamar St Apt 008, Dallas, TX 75215 (Cross Streets: Lamar & Belleview)
Come join this social gathering full of networking, live performance by Harmonie Soule (feat. The Quentin Moor Trio), hot mixes by DJ Passion and much more...
This will be Harmonie's 1st performance of 2011... You dont want to miss this southern soulstress performing Live!! Doors Open at 7pm... Live Performance is at 8pm!! SEE YOU THERE!!!

Thank You DJ C-Love... !!!

Its Time To WAKE UP!!

2011-01-15T12:36:00.001-06:00

Normally I am the first person to advise of media intentional attempts at world-wide paranoia, but this message was definitely truth. Thanks @Joseph Guinn for posting this on your Facebook. Funny how so many people will comment on random blah thoughts that we share daily with the world but something of importance is rarely received by many. Sorry that the music is playing... but you guys can just double click on the video and it should take you to another tab. Please watch this... I support messages like this!!

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Let It Go... Have We Forgot The Definition of ..."Old"?

2011-01-15T02:19:00.002-06:00

TWITTER - It just wouldnt be me to not comment on this topic. @kanyewest will never get a break from the media and true talent will never fully be embraced. How can we expect a diminishing world to evolve? We live in a world were two human beings are put in a cage and paid to beat the crap out of each other. This is entertainment now! A society were content is less important and image is more of substance. My friend and I were watching an ESPN special today about ... yeah.... black vs. white negative publicity however they were referring to sports. We were in a bar and couldnt get the sound turned up on the show... figures right? I'd like to see Spike Lee host a show about anything. As jaw-dropping as many of his statements can be sometimes, he speaks his only knowledge of truth and stands behind it. I can appreciate that!

Well my point is, the negative publicity against minorities has become a major part of entertainment. I hate to be the angry black woman with her leather gloved fist in the air, but sometimes it is what it is... Sometimes a joke is only a joke when dictators say it is and sometimes joking about your own situation causes everyone else around you to react negatively. Who hasn't made fun of the pointless, yet infamous "Taylor Swift Award Interruption" line? I personally think that Kanye's comment to Britney Spears was harmless and obviously a point that this artist, Kanye West is very aware of where and how his music is rated on the charts. Maybe we need more artist like this? or Maybe "LOL" doesnt mean that "Others will Laugh Out Loud". With all the crappy entertainment out here right now, you'd think that society would continue to embrace their sense of humor?? #ImJustSayin'

Excited About The New Year!!

2011-01-01T11:24:00.001-06:00

Im so ecstatic about the new year! There are so many reasons we all should be. I for one, am happy that I have yet another chance to focus on my own projects. The conclusion of 2010 gave me so much insight on whats important to me. We often get so lost in the hoopla that comes along with a subject that we lose sight of the topic at hand.

Its so easy for many to say, "I am going to be me". But how many people actually do it? I found myself getting caught between an image and just being me. So focused on those two things that should both come naturally. Music was no longer a priority. 2010 I couldnt find a connection with music. Through the course of 2010 that has definitely changed.

Now we are in the New Year and I have a completely different perspective. Why cant I just live this music? Why does it have to be so separate. After all, it doesnt require two different personalities. Does it? Not for me... not this year! This year Im super excited. I feel Im destined to shine within. Accepting and loving my own abilities and talent is more important than getting others to embrace it. The love and support comes when there is consistency and dedication. I truly believe this. 11-11-11... Thats this year!! (Its also my birthday)! There's no better sign that I can make the unexpected possible!! How about you??!!

Teena Marie Leaves Her Legacy of Soul at Age 54

2010-12-26T00:31:00.001-06:00

Worst way to find out that someone you know or admire has passed, is through the internet. For some reason getting this information through an actual news outlet is accepted as confirmation. Tonight, many of us received this tragic news through internet sources. I was on Twitter and thought that once again, Twitter crazies had killed another celebrity through rumors. There were at least 3 other "publicly known sources/sites" that were attempting to confirm this information through sources online. In the end we all were hoping for a horrible hoax to ignore but it was finally reported on the news that Teena Marie was deceased.

Death is not an easy thing to accept for many and most times its questioned even when it makes sense to accept it. Many of her fans were affected by her passing. Some of those fans were very close friends and family members to me. I grew up listening to many of Teena Marie's popular tunes as a child. I even covered "Sunny Skies" in a lower octave (from her 80's album "Emerald City") earlier this year. Over 12 albums of great songs written by her. Teena Marie's soulful sounds and warm heart was easily embraced by all who listened to her music. I honestly feel that if you dont know Teena Marie's music... even just one song... You dont know soul music...

Here are some other tributes I thought were interesting:
Lenny Kravitz's Message To Teena Marie
Marsha Ambrosius' Cover of Teena Marie's "Yes Indeed"

Marsha Ambrosius is CRAZY!!!

2010-12-20T11:52:00.002-06:00

Marsha Ambrosius is crazy... Im talking sick crazy... Im talking!! Wow... girl sing all night, we'll pay extra...crazy!! So if you still dont get it... This crazy is actually a compliment! Tonight I went to her concert featured at Dallas' own Prophet Bar and I definitely enjoyed myself. I wish I could say that I have experienced many concerts, but truthfully... I havent. Other than singing with the amazing Russell Taylor (on stage), and the many spectacular moments when Eric Roberson comes to Dallas (although I sing so loud I figured Im secretly his 2nd background singer).

I wasnt so familiar with Marsha A's music. I only knew about some writing she had done for other great artists as well as her duo work as a member of Floetry. Guess I too was still a little bitter about the duo's musical parting. I figured I wouldnt show as much support...therefore forcing them to regroup! ha! How crazy was I... She has done well on her own. immediately after the concert I have become more familiar with what she has put in the atmosphere for all of the world to enjoy. So I say to all the stubborn folk who may have felt the way I did about Floetry and their solo projects... GET OVER IT!! because youre really missing out on some wonderful music!

Now here is what I enjoyed the most:
Marsha's stage presence is like sitting on the couch with your very best friend while she sings her conversation to you. Although I was standing (in 5inch heels... what was I thinking...) her stage presence was so relaxing and her music is so easy to relate to, if youve ever lived. She show so much personality when she's on stage and its not one of those... I know she cant wait to get off stage personalities... I honestly think if she felt that way she might have said it. She's pretty bold on stage and I like it! Most of all other than her lyrical content reaching out and slapping me a few times, making me feel a little exposed, her singing is beyond! Each song gives you some kind of emotional connection and she shows this with every facial and hand expression. I could go on and on about this woman's commitment to do her and do it well!! And Ive only be to 1 of her concerts...

What Ive Learned...

2010-10-13T13:16:00.000-05:00

I’ve learned that no matter how much you love someone, you cannot force or teach them to love you back.

I’ve learned that as you age, so does the time that your loved ones have left on earth.

I’ve learned that the phrase, "it can’t get any worse" is only a phrase, its only wishful thinking, its not a true statement or prediction.

I’ve learned that learning to let go may be harder to do than cutting off your own limb.

I’ve learned that those who are stronger are not the ones who can walk away from danger...those are the lucky ones, but its those who can avoid repeating the incident.

I’ve learned that procrastination is a man's best friend, not dogs.

I’ve learned that true love is in your mind...real love is in your heart.

I’ve learned that you can’t live your life to the fullest if you are limited by someone else' boundaries.

I’ve learned that people do not miss their well when it runs dry, they miss it when they are parched.

I’ve learned that you can take a horse to a pale of water, but even he isn't dumb enough to fall for the bait.

I’ve learned that time is not something we measure on a clock, but instead it is something we wish we could calculate perfectly.

Nine Eleven...

2009-09-11T23:35:00.004-05:00

Today I didnt hear much about "Nine Eleven". But then again I didnt tune in to watch any of CNN's scare tactics. I remember when I was in the military (dedicating my life to what I thought to be a WAR on Terror) and I would come home to visit and it seemed that people just stopped watching the news. Some people use to tell me that the news was just too depressing. I personally thought it was a lousy excuse for not wanting to be educated about our surroundings. But a few months ago I too had a NEWS OVERLOAD. I watched the news so often it was almost predictable. Another child kidnapped, another crooked politician, more promises, more lies, more gossip about celebrities who are given fame for no apparent reason, more reality show controversies. Eugh!! Enough already. Oh yeah and once every six hours a commercial would flash about a starving family in another country.

I pulled out my medals from the closet and said, "Thank you Lord for allowing me to make it through those times and return home with my sanity".

So what am I blogging about again?...

Let US Never Forget Those Who Remembered US - "Nine Eleven"

"Cue The Rain"...

2009-09-10T22:25:00.007-05:00

I totally get the song title "Cue the Rain" by Queen Latifah. Today I was guilty of reciting the gambler's prayer. I think everyone has recited this one at some point in their life. "Lord, if I won the lottery..."! It was definitely one of those days. The A.M. was a mess. Sometimes I get the feeling that people realize that Im the "new girl"; And believe me, that's not actually a good thing in my A.M. line of work. Some people push and push during those 8+ hours until they break. Those people are often defined as "over achievers", "perfectionist" "show off's", kiss-***". lol Yes I said it! So yeah you can just call me the perfectionist. The one who cant seem to focus if one thing is out of place. And today, EVERYTHING was out of place. Imagine that.

I was so excited about my meeting with "THE PRODUCER". As long as it took me to hook up with this guy, I was definitely looking forward to the meet. (With sincere sarcasm): He could not have picked a better day to arrange a meeting. Rush hour traffic was insane. So being the me that I am (smile), I decided to create my own short cut. When I finally realized that I was lost (30 minutes into my drive), I decided to use my handy GPS "brought to you by 4G Sprint Network". So then, rain starts to pour from the sky like a Broadway reenactment of "The Great Flood". Eric Roberson seemed so into character as I slowly faded out his last words "the show must go on, unfortunate-leeee" (End Scene). So I parked the Honda in the parking lot of the nearest Walgreens. Everyone knows its almost impossible for me to drive in the rain. And thanks to my bipolar 4G-GPS yelling "TURN LEFT, TURN LEFT, RE-ROUTING" (yes Im still parked) my fears immediately started looking for signs (3) that this was a bad day period. (1)A lady runs barefoot in the rain, from her car to the inside of Walgreens. And believe it or not this is unusual even in Texas. (2)A Honda crushed on a tow truck (same color as mine) passes by twice. (I guess they were following the "4G-GPS Network" too)? (3)The barefoot lady runs all the way back to her car with ONLY A FREAKIN' HALF GALLON OF MILK?? Yeah now that's spooky...lol I look forward to the moments when showing up to a discussion meeting wont be my only self reassurance that I am doing whatever it takes to make it. So I went against the majority and got back on the road. I was the car that was driving 30mph on the 45mph road while being flipped off by the other drivers who rushed so desperately to get to the corner store for that lucky lotto ticket that I obviously was going to miss out on. Or maybe they were all going after half gallons of milk?

Long story shortened- I finally get to the studio. We talk a little about soul artists that we enjoy and a little about radio. We talked about my vision for my first album and my goals for the album. Yeap I did an equal of talking and listening. After the meeting, Im driving back home wondering if I truly relayed what was important?

I dont know, but today just felt like, I SPOKE and everyone in the A.M. and P.M. that I came in contact with seemed to only hear, "Blah Blah Blah". WTH is up with that?? Someone, "Cue the Rain" (action)

"Message" (The Vocal Coach)

2009-08-30T19:06:00.001-05:00

Describing myself as fairly new to the music scene would be not far from the truth but believe, Im no stranger to music. No need in going into the "once upon a time" of how music and I met. I'll save that for another blog. Just know that the first time I heard music that I felt, it was just like a baby's first cry out of the dark womb, coming into the world; It was overwhelming and yet appreciated. Thank you Mr. Steveland Morris.

After my first show, I developed (self diagnosis) something called "boophobia".
**Footnote** Boophobia: the fear of being booed with or without the experience of ever being booed.**

Although I have never experienced being booed throughout many of my performances, the fear of it happening almost got the best of me. I decided to get a vocal coach to perfect my vocals. It was a little tough avoiding the advice from family, friends, and supporters who all thought I didnt need the extra help. I dont see "vocal coaching" as something that takes away from being an artist. Anyone who has a craft that they truly care about at some point should want to know more than one way to grow with their talent. Thats my opinion of it anyway. It took a while to find someone to work with that I could trust and I knew was looking out for me and not my monthly payment. I was introduced to a singer who is also a vocal coach and this wasnt my first time hearing of her great talents. We met a few days ago for my first lesson and it was almost like learning my ABC again, but this time in another language. As a spiritual woman, I do believe that God can send a message through anyone at any time. Today, I received my message from her. Lets just say that I had carried many myths of performing, singing, and being an artist, with me for a long time. It was good to finally receive the truth.

After our meeting, I sat and thought for a while. Who knew the first vocal study would shed light on so many things in my life.

Remembering Why I Love... - 2009 "I Got Soul Conference" in Dallas, TX

2009-08-23T12:18:00.000-05:00

This was us at the show on 6/13/2008

This Summer passed us by without another "I Got Soul Conference". Im thinking back and wow, its been a little over a year now since the "I Got Soul Conference" took place here in Dallas, TX.

I was so excited to perform at this event with two other local artists and friends, Van Artis (gospel/soul artist) and Junye Butler (neo-rock/soul artist). We collect or vocal talents each event when Russell Taylor comes into town; although I doubt he'd be rushing a 1st class to come back to Dallas anytime soon. Let just say, Dallas has a way of showing their appreciation for talent and its not always welcoming.

I remember walking into a rehearsal in the hotel with Russell Taylor while a group of artists including Dain Harris, Yahzarah, and Brandon A. Thomas listened in to Junye & Van sing with Russell Taylor. I had come in just in the nick of time and immediately started singing with the song. At this very moment, I was able to complete our beautiful harmony. I could see everyone nodding while sitting in their chairs and some lounging on the floor and bed. Kodak moments like those help me enjoy my musical journey as an artist even more.

I remember hearing artists like Anthony David, Sy Smith and Darnell Levine for the first time and thinking to myself, "where have you been all this time Harmonie". They were great to both hear and see on stage. My mental notepad had reached its last page and there was so much to gather from the event; it was crazy. The last day of this terrific event ended with an invite for us to sing with Yahzarah (but time prevented us from learning her material).

THE LAST DAY- I was so excited to see everyone in one room appreciating one another talent. Some where humble, some where...tipsy But everyone showed luv.

You had to be there to really get the feel of this event. It was nice!

Just reminiscing...