Fresh off a successful stint on Dancing With The Stars, R&B singer Mario is hard at work on his fourth studio album (due before the year’s end). ‘If I Never’ is said to be one of the tracks from his more recent recording sessions. The smooth R&B cut isn’t far removed from some of the solid slower offerings on his criminally underrated ‘Go!’ LP. Good stuff.

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Following the surprise success of ‘Sexy Can I’, Ray J is back with follow-up single ‘Gifts’. Unfortunately it seems as though the impressive reception of ‘Sexy Can I’ was a fluke, as ‘Gifts’ finds Brandy’s lil’ bro in familiar territory – uncreative, uninspired and unworthy of a second listen IMO (though I’m some will beg to differ).

What do you think of the song/video?

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Though her career is in dire need of a resuscitation at present, there’s no denying she’s one hell of a performer; her rendition of ‘Get Right’ reminded me of how baffled I was at why the song wasn’t as big as it should have been -a great track, which she nails performance-wise each and every time. Random tidbit: it really seems like just yesterday that J. LO ruled the music scene. I guess it goes to show, you’re only as big as your last hit – Rihanna and co, take note.

What do you think of the performance?

In a recent interview with XM radio, rapper Lil’ Wayne confirmed that he will be taking to the stage with Usher and Beyonce to open the 2008 BET Awards with the ‘Love In This Club’ remix:

“It was suppose to be a surprise that I and Beyonce are performing with Usher when I open up the show.”

I’m guessing he was high or something when he let the cat out of the bag; emphasis on the word ‘surprise’ lol. In any case, no doubt all eyes will be on Beyonce’s showing, which will serve as a record 6 performances at the annual ceremony. It’s evident, BET know the ‘Deja Vu’ singer is a ratings winner.

Your thoughts?

Watching this really has me remembering how dominant (deservedly) the ladies were back in the day. In an industry filled with singers whose list of talents don’t include actually being able to sing, both Brandy and Monica still stand as welcomed rarities in the R&B field. I’m really anticipating both of their forthcoming LP’s.

Your thoughts?

The video for Jordin Sparks’ latest single ‘One Step At A Time’ made its debut today. Something about this girl is just real ‘blah’ to me…

What do you think of the video?

Decent performance, I guess. The song is still the pits IMO, but the crowd obviously felt otherwise. With the right material, I really feel Chris could make a lasting impact in the industry. Maybe with the next album…

What do you think of the performance?

Ashanti performed on Good Morning America’s Summer Concert Series earlier today in support of her latest effort ‘The Declaration. As well as performing her single ‘The Way That I Love You’ (below), the 27 year old songstress reunited with former collaborator Ja Rule to perform a string of their hits. Good stuff.

What do you think of the performances?