Luther Vandross is the modern blueprint for an R&B/Soul songwriting superstar. Prior to Luther paying his dues early in his illustrious career Luther Ronzoni Vandross Jr. was a Harlem, New York City-born youth who had dreams of making his name in the entertainment business. Both of his parents, his mother Mary Ida and father Luther…
In this interview, Mo Wilks from Studio 889 discussed Chrisette Michele’s musical journey, influences, and upcoming performance at City Winery Boston. Chrisette shared her early exposure to jazz legends and her development as a singer, while also highlighting her experiences collaborating with artists like Rick Ross and Nas. They explored her evolution as an artist,…
Deemed as “The Voice” in pop culture and regarded as a cultural icon, Whitney Elizabeth Houston was one of the most awarded artists of all time to have ever graced the microphone. Born on August 6, 1963, in Newark, New Jersey, Houston was an extreme force to be reckoned with during the 80s and 90s…
Musician, comedian, and stage performer Ahamefule J. Oluo stopped by Studio 8-8-9 to discuss his upcoming solo production The Things Around Us, which premieres at the Paramount Center, downtown Boston through ArtsEmerson Friday, February 20th through Sunday, February 22nd. The Things Around Us is a musically astounding, hilarious, and surprising new one-person show from acclaimed musician, artist,…
Every year on the unofficial holiday on September 21st, we sing the unforgettable song by the legendary band Earth, Wind & Fire. Decades later, their music still makes people get up and dance no matter what generation you are a part of. They are one of the most musically accomplished, celebrated, and commercially successful pop-funk…
Roberta Flack’s background as a singer songwriter is unmatched. She inherited a rich musical heritage from her parents; her mother was a church organist and her father was a jazz pianist. Roberta gained early musical experience accompanying her family’s church congregation in North Carolina. At the young age of 15, she attended Howard University on…
In recognition of Black History Month, here’s a few words and some history on the Godfather of Soul, James Brown. During a time when Black people were the subjects of racial discrimination and a time when there was significant unrest from social and political tension, James Brown transcended the racial divides through his incomparable and…
Before he heads back out on his Mutts Don’t Heel World Tour, it was only right that the Brooklyn-born R&B/soul artist snag a couple more Grammys for the road. Leon Thomas III – born August 1, 1993, and slated as the most nominated R&B artist for this year’s ceremony – came away with his first…
“Timbs,” “Butters,” or “Wheats”—whatever you call them—are a staple in New York fashion and footwear. What many people don’t realize, however, is that these iconic boots originated in Boston, Massachusetts. The legacy of Timberland began in 1952, when Nathan Swartz acquired a half-interest in the Abington Shoe Company, located in South Boston. After years of…
Stage performance’s Stokely & Martin Director/Write Najee Brown @najeevisuals Actor/Singer Simone Alyse @Salyseofficial sit down with Mo Wilks @mowilk7 inside @WERS889 Studio 8-8-9 prior to their stage debut MLK Weekend at Cambridge Multicultural Arts Center @multiculturalac. The upcoming production of Stokely & Martin playing at Cambridge’s Multicultural Arts Center, January 16th thru January 18th just…