Since Phyllis Hymans Suicide in 1995,it left fans bewildered. It now transpires that there will be a musical based on her life and reasons for her untimely death. Entitled “Evening With Phyllis Hyman”, set to kick off in New York’s Actor’s Temple Theatre on January the 28th & 29th 2017.
Hyman---just shy of her 46th birthday---committed suicide by overdosing on prescription pills on June 30, 1995. A suicide note left behind read: "I'm tired. I'm tired. Those of you that I love know who you are. May God bless you."
We can’t say that 2016 was a great year for great artists, Prince, Natalie Cole, David Bowie, Phife Dawg, Leonard Cohen, Maurice White, Billy Paul, Kashif, Vanity, (Denise Mathews).Just before constructing this December blog,we have also learnt of the passing of Colonal Abrams at the age of 67. The Detroit-born, New York-based singer is perhaps best known for 1985 hit “Trapped,” but Colonel Abrams also sang on several tracks that are considered to have laid the groundwork for what is now considered global dance music. Last year, Colonel Abrams was reportedly homeless and suffering from diabetes, and a crowd-funding effort by fans and friends was launched to get him back on his feet. Many many more was lost in 2016. However their music lives on….
David Mancuso may not be a DJ name that is familiar to some. ). David Passed away on the 15th November 2016 at the age of 72.
However those that know and remember "The Loft” ,( an establishment regarded as the “first underground dance party” in New York in the 70’s.Unlike the commercial clubs that existed to make a profit, Mancuso and particularly his event Love Saves the Day, offered a space for its members, often an LGBTQ audience, to celebrate nightlife without police interference. Mancuso was inducted into the Dance Music Hall of Fame in 2005 for his contribution to club culture, and as one of the formative figures in DJing and dance music. As well as creating a positive and safe space for its often marginalised attendees, The Loft was known for improving the standards of sound, using an exceptional hi-fi system to heighten the musical experience.
We also lost the lead singer of the Dap –Kings, Sharon Jones, ( August 1956 – November 2016). The Dap-Kings where spearheading a massive soul revival. The Dap-Kings where hired by Mark Ronson on the Amy Winehouse 2006 album “Back To Black”. Before then, ( and despite), her powerhouse voice, Jones failed to make a breakthrough for decades until a recording session led to a Dap-Kings album in 2002.The band later won a Grammy nomination and performed at Glastonbury.
In regards to bad news…roll on 2017…..
Trax FM looks for the cream of DJ talent. Not just the cult type of presenters, but the also the cream of the UK/Europe club circuit. As well as the Friday night guest mix sessions, but Danny Jay is live, (yes live!), every Tuesday from the venue, The Junction in Harrow,(London UK). Check the “Digital Anthems” sessions every Tuesday from 10PM UK Time. These guys are not just talented, they work bloody hard….
Christmas is finally here,(what happened to the summer?). Have a great Christmas & brilliant new year boys & girls!
See you on the other side...
Trax FM...Wicked Music For Wicked People