Princess of Crunk: Ciara, New Editon, new DMX

"PROMISE"    CIARA

Ciara exploded onto the music scene in 2004 with the mega-hits  "Goodies" and "1-2 Step".   She was originally branded the Princess of Crunk but her style has become more contemporary R&B now.   This incredibly beautiful video captures Ciara's innovative dance moves, her breathy baby-making vocals, and Ciara looks as sexy as ever.   I saw Ciara during her first tour in St Pete at the Last Damn Show, you could sense right away she would be incredible.

"I'M STILL IN LOVE WITH YOU"  NEW EDITION

From their reunion CD in 1996, Bobby Brown, Ralph Tresvant, BBD, and Johnny Gill got back together for a masterful CD.   "Still In Love" was the first single and it features the classic NE harmonies backing Ralph's amazing falsetto voice.   Sadly the tour to support this CD resulted in rivalries and the band quit again after the tour.  Johnny, Ronnie, and Bobby have toured together recently as have Bell Biv Devoe, so who knows if $$$ and nostalgia brings them together again soon.

"LAST HOPE"     DMX

Earl Simmons, aka DMX, promised a new CD for 2012 and released a video in late 2011 to whet our appetite.  DMX has had his share of incarcerations, police run-ins, and drama.   Yet throughout it all, DMX always included prayers, positive message songs on each of his CD's.   He has changed a lot through the years and is currently a pastor.   I can only imagine how those church services go!   "Last Hope" describes his struggles and transformation.