As 2017 comes to close, I’d like to take a moment to reflect upon some the amazing music that came out this past year. The current state of dance music is often questioned, yet there is no denying that there is still quality music coming out. After compiling this list, I noticed that most included are long-time respected music veterans, (which was not on purpose, by any means). My musical taste is very much influenced by Black, American artists, and this list without question confirms that. Black music is equally present and relevant as it ever was, and one can only pray that it will continue to stay that way. As a music lover, and as a DJ, I recognize the importance of embracing new talent and exploring unknown territories musically, yet could never deny the fact that my true love of this music was formed by some of the pioneering individuals on this very list. I was not surprised to see the major publications “Best of 2017” lists barely including any people of color, so I decided to take matters into my own hands. The majority of the music on this list I have purchased, played out at gigs, and hold in very high regard…
So, without further ado, here’s Underground and Black’s Best of 2017 list:
- Waajeed- Shango EP // In the past I had typically associated most of Waajeed’s productions with Hip-Hop, yet was presently surprised to learn that Waajeed, was indeed creating what I affectionately like to call “intelligent dance music”. That beautiful place where, funk, soul, jazz, hip-hop, house, and techno meet. I can’t recall not one time that I dropped “Better Late Than Never”, or “Winston’s Midnight Disco” without someone running up to the booth to inquire. In addition to the EP, he also released an awesome music video for the Shango track….What up doe Waajeed!
2. DJ Aakmael- Tales of the Deep EP //
If your anything like me, when you think of “Aakmael”, you think “Deep”. Deep indeed is the one they call DJ Aakmael, and no one does deep quite like him. Tired of me saying deep yet? LOL. “Tales of the Deep” EP dropped on Axe on Wax in April, and would probably have to be some of my favorite work produced by an artist, who in my opinion, deserves a lot more recognition. The somewhat reflective piano sample on “Kosmic Bounce”, is almost hypnotic, and will leave you filled with emotion. Its a track you could cry to, reflect to, or dance to…I love how music is versatile in that respect. Same thing goes for the track titled “Deep Side”, while “Moodcapacity” asks a question that all DJ’s should be able to answer “YES” to….
“Do you have the ability to create a mood”?????
3. Patrice Scott- The Detroit Upright //
“The Detroit Upright” without question was one of my favourite tracks to come out this year. This particular track got me out of bed on many days when I didn’t think I’d last another day at my 9-5….there’s something about it that just feels good and inspiring. “Who We Are”, is also another beauty….I suggest you check out both of these tracks if haven’t done so yet! Really look forward to more great music from Patrice in 2018. #Detroit
4. Hanna- Bounce EP //
I was introduced to the track “No Fear” on Josey Rebelle’s Rinse FM show that I was featured on, which gives it that sentimental value every time I drop it. I play this track when I’m ready to get people moving, and it never seems to disappoint!
5. Norm Talley- Norm-A-Lize //
In 2017 Norm Talley dropped his debut album on Omar S’s FXHE label, and what I can say….14 tracks of solid heat! I’ve been watching Norm play since the Agave days back in the early 2000’s, and it’s great to see him still doing his thing after all this time. Make sure to cop this record if you haven’t done so yet!
6. Ron Trent Presents Prescription: Word, Sound & Power //
The infamous re-release of this record had a lot of people smiling, including myself. Below is Ron Trent’s previously unreleased “Black Magic Woman” feat. Harry Dennis…imagine how I feel playing this track….yeah.
7. Karizma- The Power EP //
Another historic reissue that I wanted to get my hands on! The reissue includes the bangin remix below by none other than Atjazz. I dropped this track in one of my recent mixes, and it got a great response when I played it out as well.
8. Dego, Kaidi- A so We Gwarn //
When it comes to Sound Signature we all know what to expect…intelligent music at its finest. Looking forward to playing some of these tracks on my NTS show, which I feel would be very fitting, being that some of these aren’t your typical club tunes. This is black, grown people music, and I’m grateful to share it.
9. Hanna- The Never End //
I was waiting like hell for this one to come out!!!! Hanna’s “The Never End” dropped on Steven Julian’s Apron Records this past summer, and I was so psyched to play my favorite track off the release “July” in July…lol. The other tracks are stunning as well, which I’m sure we all can expect from the one they call Hanna. Check this release if you haven’t done so yet, it feels good to support Black labels…Shout out Apron Records.
10. Loleatta Holloway (Louie Vega, Josh Milan, Yvonne Turner)- Can’t Let You Go //
Last but not least, the infamous “Can’t Let You Go” remixes by Louie Vega and Josh Milan. Every time I dropped this track people came running to the dance floor…there’s something about Loleatta’s voice that does that to you! I have a feeling this will be one of those tracks thats in circulation for a long, long time. If not mistaken, it was also nominated for a grammy, which it is more than deserving of, I’m glad to see real music still getting recognition.
And that’s it folks!!!! I hope you guys enjoyed the list, and my feeble attempt at music journalism (lol). 2017 was a great year in music, 2018 will be better, and hopefully blacker. 😉 Thanks to everyone who’s been following the blog, I truly appreciate each and every one of you. I’m looking forward to continue sharing in 2018….
Love, Peace, and Nappyness in the New Year!
-ASH ❤
Underground & Black 