FCN 12/12/2000
Muhammad Inside Music
Sade's
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New 'Lovers
Rock' CD is strong music from a strong sister
by Donald Muhammad
Contributing Editor
In the aftermath of the Million Family March, Sade�s latest Sony Music CD "Lover�s Rock" proves that love and romance can be beautifully done while not having to carry a parental advisory warning.
Sade, one of the 1980s most important Black superstars, has reemerged on the recording scene and what a 21st century debut she delivers. She rocks the soul to make the body come alive. Music, the healing force of the universe, packs a powerful punch with each of the eleven songs on this must have CD.
On "Immigrant" she tackles Black self-identity and self-worth while at the same time making a delightful soundtrack to tell this important story of Black people in a "neo-colonial world."
"Slave Song" a song of redemption and spiritual uplift also contains an enjoyable soundtrack that gives it a special spice. "I pray to the Almighty," she sings, "Let us not do as he has unto us. Teach my beloved children, I�ve been a slave, but reach for the light continually� ."
In whatever capacity her fans might find themselves in the game of love, whether all the way in or just coming out, male-female relationships are the centerpiece of this CD. On this album, there�s something for everyone especially in the world of romance.
Meanwhile, Ex-centric Sound System�s "Electric Voodooland" on Loud Records delivers an excellent blend of reggae, West African and jazz-fusion. The group�s members hail from the "global village" including Ghana, Mococco and the West Indies. Their soundtracks resemble the stylings of Manu Dubango�s "Soul Makossa, "Steel Pulse�s "Handworth Revolution," Burning Spear�s "Garvey�s Ghost" and Angelique Kidjo�s "Voodoo Child."
Indeed, their funky blend of reggae grooves and percussive driven rhythms make this a perfect album to play on your car stereo during those long commutes or at an aerobic dance class. "Roots Detective," "Chenki" and "Ex-Centric Dub Show" are strong songs on this album that progressive music buyers will not want to miss.
In keeping with the Million Family March, songwriter Nile Rodgers, "We Are Family," remains an important item in the most discrimination CD buyer�s library. Sister Sledge, a super group of the 1970s, delivered this legendary song to the "great Black music hall of fame." Currently, Mr. Rodgers, a former Black Panther, remains a pivotal force in the onward march of great music working with the Paterson, N.J. hip hop group, F.O.D.
"I want to have a company that will give a voice," he disclosed in a statement to the press, describing his two-year old company Sumthing Distribution. "If you don�t stand for sumthing you�ll fall for anything," is their company motto.
There�s a message in Black music, a message of love, peace and happiness. As the success of the Million Family march finds its way inside the heart of every conscious Black man and woman, rest assured that love conquers all.
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