For this week’s newsletter, we are beginning by reflecting on the career and artistry of D’Angelo, whose work transformed the landscape of Black music. On Queue Points Live, we discussed his emergence in the mid-90s, blending soulful traditions and hip hop energy in ways that felt both innovative and deeply rooted. His debut, Brown Sugar, set him apart with its organic sound and live instrumentation, quickly establishing him as a torchbearer for the neo-soul movement. Throughout the years, D’Angelo’s collaborations and leadership within the legendary Soulquarians collective helped redefine R&B and hip hop for a new generation.
From the groundbreaking impact of his “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” video to the rich, spiritual depths of Voodoo and Black Messiah, D’Angelo continually reminded listeners that true artistry flourishes through vulnerability and reverence for one’s craft.
As we honor D’Angelo’s legacy and impact, we also mark this week with a deep sense of loss. Our brother, D’Angelo, left behind a powerful catalog and an indelible imprint on Black culture and music.
Share your favorite D’Angelo memories in the comments.
Timbaland’s AI Artist TaTa Taktumi Is Finally Here and Our Verdict Is …
… is this it?
For several months, Timbaland has been under fire for his alignment with AI company Suno. The legendary producer has been accused of using his celebrity to encourage up-and-coming producers to send him beats to review under the guise of mentorship, only to possibly allow Suno to use that music as part of their AI training model. While that accusation may or may not be true, he was very clear that he had signed an AI artist who had new music on the way. Well, it’s here.
What do you think of “Glitch x Pulse?”
Check Out Some Other Articles About TaTa Taktumi
Listen To This Week’s Episode of Queue Points
Turning Ideas Into Action: Manny Faces Discusses How 'Hip Hop Can Save America'
This week on Queue Points, we were thrilled to welcome Manny Faces, author of “Hip Hop Can Save America!: Inspiration For The Nation From A Culture of Innovation,” for a conversation about the transformative power of hip hop culture. Manny’s discusses how hip hop intersects with education, health, politics, and social justice, and made for an informative episode, revealing not just the culture’s artistic depth but its capacity to bring about positive change in communities nationwide. Don’t miss it!
Don’t forget to follow Hip Hop Can Save America! right here on Substack.
