EventsTop 10 Albums of 2008
New Year’s is quickly approaching and it’s about that time to pick our Top 10 albums of 2008. That’s right, we managed to agree on the same 10 albums without firing someone… out of canon… into the Sun.
Evolver | John Legend
Legend is not the typical R&B / soul artist. His lyrical content is much heavier, his voice is a little deeper, and he looks extremely comfortable behind the keys rather than dancing on stage. His latest album Evolver (2008) hit the market a few weeks before the presidential election, and he was still able to have large success. I attribute it to John Legend’s ability to stay unique while maintaining who he is through his lyrics and vocal strength.
The Way I See It | Raphael Saadiq
Raphael Saadiq gets absolutely creative on his latest album. Though his previous albums have been soulful and a great listening pleasure, none of them have made me feel like I literally jumped eras in history.
Year Of The Gentlemen | Ne-Yo
To me, Ne-Yo fits into the bill of very talented R&B artists who still maintain to keep it conscious and smart when it comes to producing their music and lyrics. He reminds me of where R&B first started, the good ol’ simple days of the genre. Year of the Gentlemen (2008) follows along the path of Ne-Yo’s first album but with more simplicity, smarter lyrics, and definitely a growth his vocal range.
Amel Larrieux
You might have heard her name when she was lead singer and musician apart of Groove Theory, the group that brought you songs like Tell Me and Keep Tryin’. She’s also a Grammy nominated artist for her work with Stanley Clarke and Glenn Lewis. Regardless of her credentials, she’s an Obnoxious artist who’s got all the makings for the best soul and jazz singer of our generation.
Ready For Love, Ready For You | Vudoo Soul
Our first soul artist to grace the cover of Obnoxious Listeners is a smart, passionate, and multi-talented artist by the name of Vudoo Soul. His voice will knock you off your seat whether you hear a song of his through your speakers or at a live performance. And on top of his gifted voice, his lyrics do a good job of not being your typical love song or R&B hook.
