Quiet storm is a late-night radio format, featuring soulful slow jams, pioneered in the mid-1970s by then-station-intern Melvin Lindsey at WHUR-FM, in Washington, D.C. Smokey Robinson's like-titled hit single, released in 1975 as the title track to his third solo album, lent its name to the format and to the radio program that introduced it to the public. Encompassing a mix of African American music genres, quiet storm music is distinguished by understated, mellow dynamics and relaxed tempos and rhythms. It can be soothingly pensive, or express romantic sentiment. Quiet storm music is similar to soft rock and adult contemporary styles, but it is more closely and unmistakably rooted in R&B; and soul music, often with jazz extensions.

Today, quiet storm is a broad term given to an array of mellow, slow-groove contemporary R&B;, soul and smooth jazz offerings of the type featured on Melvin Lindsey's WHUR program, and on myriad other stations that followed his lead—most notably KBLX-FM in San Francisco, which in 1979 became the first radio station in the U.S. to present a 24-hour quiet storm format.

History

Origins

Melvin Lindsey was first a disc jockey for WHUR in 1976 as a stand-in for an employee who failed to report for work because of a violent storm that had caused power outages and knocked some area radio stations off the air. The response from listeners was positive, and Lindsey stayed on. Founder of Radio One Cathy Hughes, WHUR station manager, heard of the show's positive reception and responded by giving Lindsey his own show.

After a time, the strains of "A Quiet Storm," Robinson's popular recording, became Lindsey's theme music and introduced his time slot every night thereafter. For many, when Robinson's trademark tenor voice wafted out over the airwaves, it signalled a welcome end to the stresses of the workday. "The Quiet Storm" was four hours of melodically soulful music that provided an intimate, laid-back mood tailor-made for late-night listening, and that was the key to its tremendous appeal among adult audiences. The format was an immediate success, becoming so popular that within a few years, virtually every station in the U.S. with a core black, urban listenership adopted a similar format for its graveyard slot. Melvin Lindsey died of AIDS in 1992, but the "Quiet Storm" format he originated remains a staple in radio programming today, more than 30 years after its inception.

Influence

Quiet storm programming is credited with launching the careers of Luther Vandross and Anita Baker, and with introducing Sade to U.S. audiences. Classic quiet storm recordings include Frankie Beverly and Maze's "Golden Time of Day," Marvin Gaye's ''Let's Get It On'', the orchestrations of Philadelphia soul, the recordings of Al Green, Barry White, and Bill Withers, much of jazz guitarist Wes Montgomery's work during his CTI (Creed Taylor, Incorporated) years, and the work of jazz-funk saxophonist Grover Washington, Jr.. In 1986, Peabo Bryson released an album entitled ''Quiet Storm''. Quiet storm was most popular as a programming niche with baby boomers from the mid-'70s to the early '90s, after which time much of mainstream R&B; took on a harder, hip-hop influenced approach.

WHUR radio still has a "Quiet Storm" show; and many urban, black radio stations still reserve their late-night programming slots for quiet storm music, as well. Now included in the genre is music with a hip-hop infusion, known as neo soul. Neo soul artists today include Raphael Saadiq, John Legend, Brian McKnight, Joe, Jaheim, D'Angelo, Maxwell, Janet Jackson, Mary J. Blige, India.Arie, Jill Scott, Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, and Alicia Keys. Quiet storm music is also the more mellow, soulful side of smooth jazz.

At least two non-commercial FM stations, the community-based WGDR in Plainfield, Vermont and its sister station, WGDH in Hardwick, Vermont (both owned by Goddard College), broadcast a weekly, two-hour "Quiet Storm" program -— a 50-50 mix of smooth jazz and soft R&B;, presented in "Triple-A" (Album Adult Alternative) style, with a strong emphasis on "B" and "C" album tracks that most commercial stations often ignore. Launched in 1998 and hosted by Skeeter Sanders, WGDR's "Quiet Storm" is one of the station's most popular music programs, based on a 2010 listener survey, and is the only program of its kind on the air in northern New England.

WHUR operator Howard University has registered "Quiet Storm" as a trademark for "entertainment services, namely, a continuing series of radio programs featuring music."

The mellow, laid-back nature of the format has been parodied, most notably by Tim Meadows on "Saturday Night Live," in which he played a "Quiet Storm" DJ who would react to life-shattering news, such as being fired, having his wife confess to adultery, and even his own murder, with his soothing voice unaltered. Back in the 1990s, Canadian adult contemporary station CFQR-FM in Montreal aired a ''Quiet Storm'' program featuring new age music. Most recently, in 2007, Premiere Radio Networks launched a nationally syndicated nightly radio program based upon the Quiet Storm format, known as ''The Keith Sweat Hotel''. That program, in edited form, broadcasts under the Quiet Storm name (as ''The Quiet Storm with Keith Sweat'') on WBLS in New York City.

See also

A Quiet Storm - the Smokey Robinson record where the song "Quiet Storm" appeared

References

External links

"Listeners Jammin' to the Quiet Storm, Radio's Most Romantic Couple of Hours" ''The Virginian-Pilot'', February 13, 1995

"Slow jamz and quiet storms" Cheryl Coward

Ebony article mentioning Cathy Hughes' credit for the format

"JazzysRadio.com - Internet Radio playing RnB quiet storm music"

"The Quiet Storm - WGDR-FM"

SOULRNB.COM - A french webzine about R&B;, Soul and Neo Soul musics

Category:Radio formats Category:Rhythm and blues music genres Category:Soul music genres

es:Quiet storm fr:Quiet storm ja:クワイエット・ストーム

Coordinates	37°46′45.48″N122°25′9.12″N
name	Mobb Deep
background	group_or_band
origin	Queens, New York, U.S.
genre	Hip hop, East Coast Hip Hop, Hardcore Hip Hop, Hardcore Rap, Gangsta Rap
years active	1992–present
label	4th & B'way (1992-1993)Infamous Records(2003-present)Loud (1995-2003)G-Unit (2005-2010)
associated acts	Big Noyd, Q-Tip, Tragedy Khadafi, Nas, Raekwon, Kool G Rap, Illa Ghee, Infamous Mobb, 40 Glocc, The Alchemist, Littles, Capone-N-Noreaga, 50 Cent, G-Unit, Young Buck, Big L, O.C., La The Darkman, Lil' Kim, Black Moon, Boot Camp Clik, Wu-Tang Clan, Method Man, Jadakiss, Nate Dogg, The Almighty RSO, R.A. the Rugged Man
current members	HavocProdigy
past members	}}

Mobb Deep is an American hip hop duo from Queens, New York, U.S., that consists of Havoc and Prodigy. The duo is "one of the most critically acclaimed hardcore East Coast hip-hop groups." The group is best known for its dark, hardcore delivery, as exemplified by the single "Shook Ones Pt. II." Mobb Deep have become one of the most successful rap duos in hip hop, having sold over 3 million records. The majority of their albums have been critically acclaimed, in particular ''The Infamous'', which is considered a classic. They are partially credited for the resurgence of East Coast rap in the early to mid-'90s. Havoc and Prodigy were also judges for the 7th annual Independent Music Awards to support independent artists' careers.

Biography

Origins

Havoc and Prodigy started rhyming in 1986, then later they both attended the High School of Art and Design in New York City. Havoc took the role of producer and secondary MC, while Prodigy assumed the position of primary MC. Originally dubbing themselves the Poetical Profits, the duo later changed its name to Mobb Deep in order to "reflect their reputation on the streets." Many do not know but when Prodigy was only 17 he was featured on the classic movie soundtrack ''Boyz in the hood'' in a track call ''too young'' In June of 1991.When Havoc and Prodigy were 18, they released their debut album as Mobb Deep, called ''Juvenile Hell'', which was led by the single "Peer Pressure." The album sold poorly and was met with harsh reviews that dismissed the duo as just another hardcore group with little to distinguish it from the rest of the hip-hop world, despite production by DJ Premier and Large Professor. However, a few songs from ''Juvenile Hell'' did gain some recognition, such as "Hit It from the Back," "Locked in Spofford," and "Me and My Crew." Also in 1993, Havoc had a guest appearance on the critically acclaimed Black Moon album ''Enta Da Stage'', on a song called "U Da Man."

Rise to success

The group saw its first major success with their second album, ''The Infamous'', released in 1995. Mobb Deep catapulted to the top of the hardcore hip-hop scene through Havoc and Prodigy's straightforward narration of street life. Mobb Deep portrayed the struggles of living in New York City's Queensbridge Houses. Following its release, ''The Infamous'' became one of the most influential albums of the East Coast hardcore hip-hop genre. The duo's production stood out, as the beats were often hard-hitting and direct—a testament to Havoc, who produced the tracks almost exclusively throughout Mobb Deep's career. Furthermore, the smash hit single "Shook Ones Pt. II" received critical acclaim and was well-received within the hip-hop community. Mobb Deep's third album, ''Hell on Earth'' was released in 1996, debuting at number six on the Billboard album chart. The album continued the duo's portrayal of harsh street life, while further pushing them to the forefront of the hardcore hip-hop scene, along with contemporary East Coast rappers like The Notorious B.I.G., Wu-Tang Clan collective, Jay-Z, and fellow Queensbridge associate Nas.

In 1996, they appeared on the Red Hot Organization's compilation CD, America is Dying Slowly, alongside Biz Markie, Wu-Tang Clan, and Fat Joe, among many other prominent hip hop artists. The CD, meant to raise awareness of the AIDS epidemic among African American men, was heralded as "a masterpiece" by The Source magazine.

In 1998, the duo collaborated with reggae dancehall rapper Bounty Killer on the track "Deadly Zone" for the soundtrack to ''Blade''. In 1999, they released the highly anticipated ''Murda Muzik'' album. Despite extensive bootlegging (nearly 30 songs of unreleased material leaked onto the Internet) and countless delays, the album debuted at number three on the Billboard 200 and quickly received platinum certification—further highlighted by the popular single "Quiet Storm." Shortly afterward, Prodigy released his long-awaited solo album ''H.N.I.C'', in which the MC collaborated with other artists (B.G. and N.O.R.E.) and producers (including The Alchemist, Rockwilder, and Just Blaze).

East Coast vs. West Coast

Mobb Deep was part of the infamous East Coast-West Coast hip hop rivalry. The beef started when Snoop Dogg and Tha Dogg Pound released "New York, New York." Mobb Deep, along with Capone-N-Noreaga and Tragedy Khadafi, released "LA, LA" in retaliation which started beef with 2pac

2000-2010

Mobb Deep released ''Infamy'' in 2001. The song "Burn" (featuring Vita) was perceived as a response to Jay-Z's diss song "Takeover" on ''The Blueprint'', as was "Crawlin'," in which Prodigy's two verses both mention Jay-Z. The album marked a major stylistic change in which the duo moved away from raw, minimalist, stripped-down beats and toward more commercial fare with such songs as "Hey Luv (Anything)." This transition fostered accusations of "selling out"—upsetting many long-time fans who did not wish to see them veer away from their original style.

Although these stylistic adjustments opened up Mobb Deep to a wider audience, many critics and fans consider their style change as a detriment to Mobb Deep's street image and record sales (most evident when comparing the platinum-selling ''Murda Muzik'' to ''Infamy'', which struggled to attain gold-record status).

In 2003, the group split with Loud Records and released ''Free Agents: The Murda Mix Tape'', in which Havoc and Prodigy proclaimed themselves "free agents" and addressed the group's split with its old label and its search for a new label. Jive Records signed the duo later in the year through a deal with the group’s own imprint. Mobb Deep then released ''Amerikaz Nightmare'' in 2004, which was seen by the general hip-hop audience as a weaker release, resulting in poor sales and the group’s subsequent departure from the label. Today, as a result of various mergers, all of Mobb Deep's studio albums from 1995 to 2004 are owned by Sony Music Entertainment.

G-Unit Records

Mobb Deep founded Infamous Records in the late 1990s, but it did not get an imprint deal until 2004. It is now a subsidiary of G-Unit Records. In June 2005, Prodigy and Havoc surprised fans when the duo announced that it had signed with 50 Cent's label G-Unit Records. The move was surprising because 50 Cent had included an indirect dis to the group in his song "Piggy Bank." 50 Cent had a connection to Mobb Deep, as he grew up in Queens and also had used Havoc as a producer for several different beats for albums by G-Unit, Lloyd Banks, and Tony Yayo. The relationship strengthened as Prodigy and 50 Cent each received tattoos to pledge their loyalty to each other. Prodigy has the word "G-Unit" tattooed on the side of his right hand and 50 Cent has "Mobb Deep" tattooed on his wrist. Upon signing with G-Unit, both Prodigy and Havoc were given new Porsches, a gift for two artists who had received very little monetary compensation in the past. Later, Mobb Deep signed different artists on Infamous/G-Unit Records, including Nyce, 40 Glocc, and Gail Gotti. 40 Glocc has his own label on the Infamous label, called Zoo Life. Mobb Deep released its eighth album, Blood Money, on , 2006. It features G-Unit members 50 Cent, Lloyd Banks, Tony Yayo, and Young Buck, as well as Mary J. Blige and Nate Dogg. On , 2006, Mobb Deep became the first American hip-hop duo to perform in India, via VH1's Hip Hop Hustle. It performed in a nightclub called Enigma. In late 2009, Mobb Deep were released from their contract with 50 Cent's G-Unit label.

2011-present

On April 4, 2011 a possible new Mobb Deep single leaked on the internet named 'Dog Shit'. The song features rapper Nas. This is the first official song by Mobb Deep since Prodigy made his return from jail and their first song with Nas in almost 10 years, due to their feud. It is produced by Havoc & Alchemist. Their ninth studio album is set to be late Summer 2011 with production from Havoc, Alchemist, Sid Roams, DJ Premier, MTK, Cardiak and J.U.S.T.I.C.E League. Havoc also confirmed a collaboration album between Nas , Rick Ross, Lil' Kim, Wiz Khalifa & Odd Future on their new album.

Discography

''Juvenile Hell'' (1993)

''The Infamous'' (1995)

''Hell on Earth'' (1996)

''Murda Muzik'' (1999)

''Infamy'' (2001)

''Amerikaz Nightmare'' (2004)

''Blood Money'' (2006)

''TBA'' (2011)

Compilations

''The Infamous Archives''(2007)

''The Safe Is Cracked '' (2009)

References

External links

Interview with Prodigy - 2006

2007 Interview with Prodigy

Category:American hip hop groups Category:G-Unit Records artists Category:African American musical groups Category:Musical duos

ar:موب ديب cs:Mobb Deep da:Mobb Deep de:Mobb Deep et:Mobb Deep es:Mobb Deep fr:Mobb Deep ko:맙딥 it:Mobb Deep he:מוב דיפ lv:Mobb Deep hu:Mobb Deep nl:Mobb Deep ja:モブ・ディープ pl:Mobb Deep pt:Mobb Deep ru:Mobb Deep fi:Mobb Deep sv:Mobb Deep tr:Mobb Deep uk:Mobb Deep zh:Mobb Deep

Coordinates	37°46′45.48″N122°25′9.12″N
Name	Smokey Robinson
Background	solo_singer
Birth name	William Robinson, Jr.
Born	February 19, 1940
Origin	Detroit, Michigan, U.S.
Instrument	Vocals, piano
Genre	R&B;, soul
Occupation	Singer, songwriter, record producer, record executive
Years active	1955–1972 (Groups)1972–present (Solo)
Label	Motown, Universal, SBK, Liquid 8
Website
Associated acts	The Miracles, The Temptations, Mary Wells }}

William "Smokey" Robinson, Jr. (born February 19, 1940) is an American R&B; singer-songwriter, record producer, and former record executive. Robinson is one of the primary figures associated with Motown, second only to the company's founder, Berry Gordy. Robinson's consistent commercial success and creative contributions to the label have earned him the title "King of Motown." As an original member of Motown Records' first vocal group The Miracles and as a solo artist, Robinson delivered many U.S. and U.K. Top 40 hits for Motown between 1960 and 1987. He also served as the company's vice president from 1961 to 1988.

Biography

Early years and formation of The Miracles

Robinson was born and raised in the North End neighborhood of Detroit, Michigan.

According to ''Entertainment Weekly'', "when he was 6 or 7, his Uncle Claude christened him "Smokey Joe," which the young William, a Western-movie enthusiast, at first assumed to be "his cowboy name for me." Some time later, he learned the deeper significance of his nickname: It derived from ''smokey,'' a pejorative term for dark-skinned blacks. "I'm doing this," his uncle told the light-skinned boy, "so you won't ever forget that you're black."

In his teens, "Smokey Joe" was shortened to "Smokey." In an interview, Robinson claimed to be friends with fellow Motown legend Diana Ross since she was eight years old. Around this time Robinson began listening to Nolan Strong & The Diablos, a Fortune Records recording artist. Strong's high tenor voice would be a primary influence on Robinson. In a 2008 interview with Goldmine, Robinson said: "There was a guy who lived in Detroit and had a group called The Diablos. His name was Nolan Strong. They were my favorite vocalists at that time."

In 1955, Robinson co-founded a vocal group called The Five Chimes with his best friend Ronald White, and Northern High School classmates Pete Moore, Clarence Dawson, and James Grice. By 1957, the group was renamed the Matadors and included cousins Emerson and Bobby Rogers in place of Dawson and Grice. Emerson was replaced by his sister Claudette Rogers, who later married Robinson. Guitarist Marv Tarplin joined the group in 1958. With Robinson as lead singer, the Matadors began touring Detroit venues.

Motown and The Miracles

After finishing high school Robinson made plans to attend college, with his studies to begin in January 1959. However, in August 1958, Robinson met songwriter Berry Gordy and, as he awaited his enrollment in school, Robinson pursued his musical career with Gordy, who co-wrote for the Miracles the single "Got a Job," an answer song to the Silhouettes' hit single "Get a Job." The group renamed itself the Miracles, and began recording with Gordy on the End Records label in November 1958.

Robinson has said that he did, in fact, enroll in college and began classes that January, studying electrical engineering. However, The Miracles' first record was released a few weeks later and Robinson left school shortly thereafter, his college career having lasted approximately two months.

The Miracles would go on to issue singles on both End Records and Chess Records, and Robinson suggested to Gordy that he start a label of his own.

In 1959, Gordy founded Tamla Records, which he soon reincorporated as Motown. The Miracles were among the label's first signees. Gordy and Robinson had a synergistic relationship, with Robinson providing a foundation for Motown's hit-making success and Gordy acting as a mentor for the budding singer and songwriter. By 1961, Gordy had appointed Robinson vice-president of Motown Records, a title Robinson held for as long as Gordy remained with the company.

The 1960 single "Shop Around" was not only Motown's first number one hit on the R&B; singles chart, but the first major chart success for The Miracles. The song was also Motown's first million-selling hit single.

Besides creating hits for his own group, Robinson wrote and produced singles and album tracks for other Motown artists. Mary Wells had a number one hit with Robinson's song "My Guy" (1964), and Robinson served as The Temptations' primary songwriter and producer from 1963 to 1966, penning such hits as "The Way You Do the Things You Do", "My Girl", "Since I Lost My Baby", and "Get Ready". Among Robinson's other Motown compositions are "Still Water (Love)" by The Four Tops, "Don't Mess With Bill" and "My Baby Must Be a Magician" by The Marvelettes, "When I'm Gone" by Brenda Holloway, "Ain't That Peculiar" and "I'll Be Doggone" by Marvin Gaye, and "First I Look at the Purse" by The Contours.

His hit songs also earned him the title "America's poet laureate of love." During the course of his 50-year career in music, Robinson has accumulated more than 4,000 songs to his credit. John Lennon of The Beatles made countless remarks regarding Robinson's influence on his music. In a 1969 interview, Lennon stated that one of his favorite songs was The Miracles' "I've Been Good To You", which has similar lyrics to Lennon's "Sexy Sadie". George Harrison also greatly admired Robinson and paid tribute to him in the 1976 song "Pure Smokey". Additionally, "Ooh Baby (You Know That I Love You)" from Harrison's Extra Texture (Read All About It) was dedicated to Robinson. (The Beatles had recorded Robinson and The Miracles' "You've Really Got A Hold On Me" in 1963.) Bob Dylan said of Robinson, that he is "America's greatest living poet."

After marrying Claudette Rogers, Robinson started a family, and named both of his children after Motown: his son was named Berry after the company's founder, and his daughter Tamla after the Motown imprint for which Robinson and The Miracles recorded.

The Miracles remained a premier Motown act through most of the 1960s. The group's billing was changed to "Smokey Robinson & the Miracles" after 1966. By 1969, the group's fortunes began to falter, and Robinson decided to quit The Miracles so that he could remain at home with his family and concentrate on his duties as vice president. The group stopped recording and Robinson prepared to leave the group. Unexpectedly, however, their 1969 recording "Baby, Baby Don't Cry" hit the national ''Billboard'' Pop Top 10, and when their 1967 recording of "The Tears of a Clown" was released as a single in 1970, it became a number-one hit in both the United States and the United Kingdom.

With the surprise success of "The Tears of a Clown", Robinson chose to remain with The Miracles for a few more years. In 1972, however, he followed through on his original plans to leave the group, and The Miracles began a six-month farewell tour. On July 16, 1972, Smokey and Claudette Robinson gave their final performances as Miracles at the Carter Barron Amphitheater in Washington, D.C., and Robinson introduced the group's new lead singer, Billy Griffin. The Miracles went on for a while, even having another million-seller with "Do It Baby"* (1974), a multi-million selling number one hit, "Love Machine", in 1975, and a Platinum Album with City Of Angels that same year. (''Reference: The Book Of Golden Discs- by Joseph Murrells'') *

Successful solo career

Smokey Robinson began a low-key solo career while concentrating on his duties as vice president of Motown, releasing his first solo LP, ''Smokey'', in 1973. His first hit single, "Sweet Harmony" (1973), was dedicated to The Miracles.

In 1975, Robinson's solo career took off with the success of the number one R&B; hit "Baby That's Backatcha". Robinson's 1976 single "Quiet Storm" and its accompanying album typified a genre of smooth, slow R&B; that has spawned late-night radio shows called "quiet storm". Other Robinson solo hits include "Cruisin'" (1979), "Being With You" (a global chart-topper in 1981), "Tell Me Tomorrow" (1982), and "Ebony Eyes", a duet with labelmate Rick James (1983). He also recorded the soundtrack to the film ''Big Time'' (1977).

Later years, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, awards and accolades

During the mid-1980s, Robinson was addicted to cocaine. His recording slowed, and his marriage to Claudette faltered; the couple divorced in 1986. With the help of friend Leon Kennedy (as described in Robinson's autobiography ''Smokey'' published in 1989), Robinson was dramatically healed of his addiction at a religious service. He eventually revitalized his career, having hits in 1987 with the Grammy Award-winning "Just to See Her" (which topped the Pop, R&B;, and Adult Contemporary charts in 1987) and "One Heartbeat" (Top Ten Pop, R&B;, and A/C). Also in 1987, British band ABC scored a U.S. and U.K. hit with their tribute to Robinson entitled "When Smokey Sings". In 1987, Robinson was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist. The other original members of the Miracles – Bobby Rogers, Ronnie White, Pete Moore, Marv Tarplin, and Claudette Robinson – were not inducted.

When Motown was sold to MCA in 1988, Robinson resigned from his position as vice president. After one last album for Motown, ''Love, Smokey'' (1990), Robinson left the label. He released one record for SBK Records, ''Double Good Everything'' (1991), the same year he won a Soul Train Music Award for Career Achievement. Eight years later, he returned to Motown, which by then was a subsidiary of Universal Music Group, and released ''Intimate'' (1999). The same year, Smokey Robinson received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2002, he was awarded the National Medal of Arts.

Since then, Smokey has continued to perform and tour periodically. In 2003, Robinson served as a guest judge for ''American Idol'' during "Billy Joel Week." He issued a gospel LP, ''Food for the Spirit'' in 2004. In 2005, Smokey Robinson was inducted into the Michigan Rock and Roll Legends Hall of Fame. A new album of pop standards from the early 20th century, ''Timeless Love'', was released in June 2006. It was originally recorded with a jazz combo, but strings were added after the fact, giving the album more of a lush sound but removing much of the jazz feeling of the disc.

In 2004, Robinson's company, SFGL Foods, launched a special brand of gumbo called "Smokey Robinson's 'The Soul is in the Bowl' Gumbo". Smokey Robinson is the spokesman of the Great American Smokeout, which takes place annually one week before Thanksgiving. It is a day when smokers quit smoking for at least a day.

Robinson has appeared on ''Friday Night with Jonathan Ross'', the NBC daytime drama ''Days of our Lives'', and on ''The Rachael Ray Show''. He also appeared on ''Duets'' on Fox-TV along with Richard Marx, Aaron Neville, Cyndi Lauper, Chaka Khan, Patti Labelle, Kenny Loggins, Clint Black, Brian McKnight, Michael Bolton, Macy Gray, Randy Travis, and the legendary Dionne Warwick. Producer David Foster was a judge.

At its 138th Commencement Convocation in May 2006, Howard University conferred on Robinson the degree of Doctor of Music, ''honoris causa''. In December 2006 Robinson was one of five Kennedy Center honorees, along with Dolly Parton (with whom Robinson had recorded a 1987 duet, "I Know You By Heart"), Zubin Mehta, Steven Spielberg and Andrew Lloyd Webber. The ceremony was held on December 3, 2006, and broadcast on CBS on December 26, 2006.

Robinson sang "The Tracks Of My Tears" as a cameo in the 2006 film ''Last Holiday''. Also in late 2006, Robinson reunited with fellow Miracles Bobby Rogers and Pete Moore for the group's first extended interview. This interview forms the basis of the Universal Music DVD release ''Smokey Robinson and The Miracles: The Definitive Performances'', a video retrospective of the group's music and career.

On February 11, 2007 Robinson sang "Tracks Of My Tears" at the 49th annual Grammy Awards, as part of a tribute to R&B; music which included Motown labelmate Lionel Richie and current R&B; star Chris Brown. Robinson was also a judge on the sixth season of American Idol and was claimed to be outdone by contestant Adam Lambert after Lambert sang "Tracks of My Tears." on Robinson performed on the sixth season finale of American Idol on May 23, 2007. Robinson and the top six male contestants performed a medley of his hits.

In November 2007, Robinson toured Australia and performed with Australian band Human Nature on the set of local television programme ''Dancing With The Stars''. On 22 November 2007, Robinson was interviewed by Bob Rogers (not to be confused with Bobby Rogers of The Miracles) on Sydney radio station 2CH.

On August 6, 2008, Robinson appeared at Harlem's Apollo Theater with English singer-songwriter Elvis Costello to record a television special combining on-stage interview and performance segments.

On March 25, 2009, Robinson appeared as a mentor on the popular television show ''American Idol''. He coached the top 10 contestants of Season 8, who performed classic Motown songs. He also premiered the first single, "You're the One For Me", which features Joss Stone. The song also became available on iTunes and Amazon, March 26, 2009. The song is an updated version of the song "You're The One For Me Bobby," which he wrote and produced for The Marvelettes in 1968 for their album "Sophisticated Soul." On March 20, 2009, The Miracles were finally honored as a group with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Smokey was present with original Miracles members Bobby Rogers, Pete Moore ,ex-wife (and Bobby's cousin) Claudette Rogers Robinson, and ,Gloria White, accepting for her husband , the late Ronnie White, whose daughter Pamela and granddaughter Maya were there representing him as well. Smokey's replacement, 70's Miracles lead singer, Billy Griffin was also honored. Controversially, original Miracle Marv Tarplin was not honored, against the wishes of his fellow Miracles, and the group's fans, who felt that he should have also been there to share the honor.

On May 9, 2009, Smokey Robinson received an honorary doctorate degree and gave a commencement speech at Berklee College of Music's commencement ceremony.

Smokey Robinson appeared in episode 22 with Daryl Hall on ''Live From Daryl's House''.

On August 25, 2009 Robinson released ''Time Flies When You're Having Fun''. A self produced and written CD of mostly new material on his own RobSo label. The CD includes a cover of the Norah Jones hit "Don't Know Why". Special guests on the LP include India Arie, Carlos Santana, and Joss Stone. The Joss Stone duet "You're the one for me" was performed on American Idol. The CD also contains a homage to early Motown and Michael Jackson with the hidden bonus track "I Want You Back."

As the finale to the BBC ''Electric Proms'' 2009, Robinson and his band appeared on 24 October with the BBC Concert Orchestra at The Roundhouse, London, in a performance to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the birth of Motown Records. Brand new arrangements of Robinson's songs had been specially commissioned by the ''Electric Proms''. The show saw him perform a mix of classics, including those written for other Motown artists as well as himself, and new material from his forthcoming 'Time Flies When You’re Having Fun' album. While in the UK Robinson also appeared on ''Later with Jools Holland'' (Oct 20), giving a short interview and performing two songs, with Eric Clapton as a backing guitarist (according to Jools Holland during the broadcast, this was at Clapton's request when he heard that Robinson would be appearing).

Popular culture

Smokey appeared on ''Sesame Street'' singing to Telly that it takes time to grow up. He also appeared on the MuppeTelevision segment of ''The Jim Henson Hour''.

ABC recorded a tribute song called "When Smokey Sings" that referenced his influence on the music industry. The single peaked at #5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. For the week of October 3, 1987, it dropped to #8 as Smokey Robinson's single "One Heartbeat" was peaking at #10. That instance of having a tributor and tributee in the Billboard Top 10 at the same time was a rarity if not a unique event..

The character C.C. White, a budding songwriter who finds success as an R&B; label's main creative force in the 1981 Broadway musical ''Dreamgirls'', is based upon Smokey Robinson. In the 2006 film adaptation of ''Dreamgirls'', C.C. is portrayed by Keith Robinson.

Smokey Robinson is referenced in the 1981 song "Genius of Love" by Talking Heads side project Tom Tom Club.

His song "The Love I Saw In You Was Just A Mirageca" is included in the film ''American Gigolo'' during the scene when Richard Gere is choosing the best suit to wear.

Personal life

Smokey Robinson is today married to Frances Gladney. His ex-wife is Miracles member Claudette Rogers Robinson with whom he had two children: Berry Robinson (named after Berry Gordy) and Tamla Robinson (named after the Motown imprint for which Robinson and The Miracles recorded). He also has another son, Trey Robinson, from another relationship.

According to NFL.COM, Robinson has a great-nephew Duke Robinson, who played offensive tackle for the Oklahoma Sooners, and was drafted in 2009 by the NFL's Carolina Panthers.

Discography

References

External links

Official Website of Smokey Robinson

Smokey Robinson interview by Pete Lewis, 'Blues & Soul' December 1992

Fresh Air interview

Smokey Robinson's page at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Smokey Robinson's page at soulwalking.co.uk

Smokey Robinson Biography and Update at SoulTracks

Official Website for Smokey Robinson's "The Soul is in the Bowl" Gumbo

Official Website of Smokey Robinson Gospel

Category:1940 births Category:African American male singers Category:American music industry executives Category:African American record producers Category:American rhythm and blues singers Category:African American songwriters Category:American soap opera actors Category:American tenors Category:Gospel artists from Detroit, Michigan Category:Grammy Award winners Category:Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award winners Category:Kennedy Center honorees Category:Living people Category:The Miracles members Category:Motown artists Category:Musicians from Detroit, Michigan Category:Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees‎ Category:Songwriters Hall of Fame inductees Category:American soul musicians Category:United States National Medal of Arts recipients

da:Smokey Robinson de:Smokey Robinson es:Smokey Robinson fr:Smokey Robinson ko:스모키 로빈슨 io:Smokey Robinson it:Smokey Robinson he:סמוקי רובינסון nl:Smokey Robinson ja:スモーキー・ロビンソン no:Smokey Robinson oc:Smokey Robinson pl:Smokey Robinson pt:Smokey Robinson ru:Робинсон, Смоки sc:Smokey Robinson simple:Smokey Robinson fi:Smokey Robinson sv:Smokey Robinson th:สโมกีย์ โรบินสัน uk:Смокі Робінсон

Coordinates	37°46′45.48″N122°25′9.12″N
Name	Lil' Kim
Background	solo_singer
Birth name	Kimberly Denise Jones
Born	July 11, 1975New York City, New York, U.S.
Genre	Hip hop
Occupation	Rapper, actress, model
Years active	1994–present
Label	Queen Bee, Universal
Associated acts	Junior M.A.F.I.A., Mary J. Blige, Notorious B.I.G., Jay-Z, Twista, 50 Cent, Scott Storch
Website	}}

Kimberly Denise Jones (born July 11, 1975), better known by her stage name Lil' Kim, is an American rapper and actress who was a member of the group Junior M.A.F.I.A..

Jones was born and raised in Brooklyn, living much of her adolescent life on the streets after being expelled from home. As a teenager, Kim would rap for fun, being heavily influenced by other female MC'S like MC Lyte and Lady of Rage. When word got to The Notorious B.I.G. that she could rhyme, he made the pint sized femcee spit a freestyle for him on the spot. Impressed with her, he took her in and she began her music career in 1995 with the group Junior M.A.F.I.A., whose debut album ''Conspiracy'' generated three hit singles. In late 1996, her solo debut album ''Hard Core'' was released. ''Hard Core'' was certified double platinum and spawned three consecutive #1 rap hits that included: "No Time" "Not Tonight (Ladies Night remix)" and "Crush on You", a record for a female rapper. Her following albums, ''The Notorious K.I.M.'' (2000) and ''La Bella Mafia'' (2003), both were certified platinum by the RIAA, making Kim the only female rapper besides Missy Elliott to have at least 3 platinum albums. Kim solidified her star power in 2001, when "Lady Marmalade", a song Kim was featured on, went to #1 on the ''Billboard'' Hot 100. That made her the first female rapper to earn a #1 on that chart. In 2005, she served a year long prison sentence for lying to a jury about her friends' involvement in a shooting four years earlier. During her incarceration, her fourth album ''The Naked Truth'' was released. Lil' Kim returned to the public spotlight in 2009 with an appearance on ''Dancing with the Stars''.

Early life

Jones was born in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of the New York City borough Brooklyn to parents Linwood Jones and Ruby Mae. At the age of 9, her parents separated, and her father raised her until he expelled her from home when she was a teenager. Thus, she lived with her friends and even on the streets. While struggling through her personal life, Kim met The Notorious B.I.G., who was a key figure in both her personal and artistic life, particularly when Wallace had gained popularity and influence through his relationship with Bad Boy Records.

Music career

Early career with Junior M.A.F.I.A.

In 1994, B.I.G. was instrumental in introducing and promoting the Brooklyn based group, Junior M.A.F.I.A., which included Lil' Kim. The group's first and only album was titled ''Conspiracy''. Three hit singles came from ''Conspiracy'': "Player's Anthem" (peaked at #7 on the ''Billboard'' Hot R&B;/Hip-Hop Songs chart and #2 on the Hot Rap Tracks chart), "I Need You Tonight" (#43 R&B;, #12 Rap), and "Get Money" (#17 on the ''Billboard'' Hot 100, #4 R&B;, #2 Rap). The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) certified ''Conspiracy'' Gold on December 6, 1995, marking sales of 500,000 units. "Player's Anthem" was Gold, and "Get Money" went Platinum (sales of a million units).

''Hard Core'' (1996)

After a year with Junior M.A.F.I.A., Jones began a solo career by making guest performances on R&B; albums and recording her debut album, ''Hard Core'', which was released in November 1996. The album peaked at #11 on the ''Billboard'' 200 and #3 on the ''Billboard'' Top R&B;/Hip-Hop Albums chart. ''Hard Core'' was RIAA-certified double platinum on March 14, 2001 after having been certified Gold on January 6, 1997 and Platinum on June 3, 1997. The album's lead single "No Time", a duet with Sean "Puff Daddy" Combs (who would later change his stage name to "P. Diddy" and then "Diddy"), reached the top spot of the ''Billboard'' Hot Rap Tracks chart and was certified Gold by the RIAA. The following single, "Crush on You", reached #6 on the Hot 100 and #2 on the rap chart. A remix of the album's track "Not Tonight" saw Lil' Kim team up with Missy Elliott, Angie Martinez, Da Brat and Left Eye of TLC. The song was part of the soundtrack to the Martin Lawrence movie ''Nothing To Lose'', nominated for a Grammy Award, and certified Platinum. In one stockholders' meeting of Warner Bros. Records, activist C. Delores Tucker criticized the label "for producing this filth," referring to perceived graphic sexual content in Kim's lyrics, and labeling them "gangsta porno rap".

''The Notorious K.I.M.'' (2000-2002)

From 1998 to 2000, Kim continued her road to stardom under the management of B.I.G.'s best friend, Damion "D-Roc" Butler's "Roc Management", touring and modeling for various fashion and pop culture companies including Candies, Versace, Iceberg, and Baby Phat. In 1998, she performed in P. Diddy's "No Way Out" tour. In the same year, she launched her own label Queen Bee Entertainment and even though she had not had an album of her own released, she was seen on dozens of remixes and guest appearances on other artist's records. On June 27, 2000, Kim released her second album ''The Notorious K.I.M.'' The album marked a new image and revamped look for the rapper. Despite the limited success of its singles, the album reached #4 on the ''Billboard'' 200, and #1 on the Hot R&B;/Hip-Hop Songs chart. It was certified platinum by the RIAA. It was on this LP that the well-known hip-hop feud between Lil' Kim and Foxy Brown blossmed.

In 2001, Lil' Kim teamed up with Christina Aguilera, Pink, and Mýa to remake "Lady Marmalade", which was originally written about a bordello in New Orleans and performed by the group Labelle (which included diva Patti LaBelle) 25 years earlier. The song was recorded for the ''Moulin Rouge!'' film soundtrack, released in April 2001, and stayed #1 on the ''Billboard'' Hot 100 for five weeks. The song also went to #1 in 50 countries around the world. This was a big accomplishment for female rap, as well as for Kim, who scored her first #1 Hot 100 hit and became the first female rapper in history to hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. "Lady Marmalade" also garnered Kim her first Grammy Award.

Lil' Kim also performed in two international hit singles. "In the Air Tonite", a remix of the Phil Collins song "In the Air Tonight" and duet with Collins, was released as a single from the Collins tribute album ''Urban Renewal''. "Kimnotyze" is the lead single of record producer DJ Tomekk's compilation album ''Beat Of Life, Vol 1''. It was released in Switzerland, Austria and Germany only. The song was successful, becoming Lil' Kim's third consecutive Top 10 hit in Germany after her number 1 hit "Lady Marmalade".

In 2002, Lil' Kim recorded a new entrance theme for then World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) Women's Champion Trish Stratus entitled, "Time to Rock 'n Roll", which was used during broadcasts, until Stratus' retirement. The single was released on ''WWE Anthology'', a compilation of entrance theme music to various professional wrestling superstars.

''La Bella Mafia'' (2003)

On March 4, 2003, Kim released her third critically acclaimed album, ''La Bella Mafia''. Highly rated (4.5 mics) by music magazine ''The Source'', ''La Bella Mafia'' spawned the hit "The Jump Off" featuring Mr. Cheeks, which climbed to number 16 on the ''Billboard'' Hot 100. The single "Magic Stick", feat. 50 Cent, hit #2 on the Hot 100 without a video ever being shot.

''La Bella Mafia'' debuted at #5 on the ''Billboard'' 200. Kim was nominated for five Source Awards and won two ("Female Hip-Hop Artist of the Year", and "Female Single of the Year"). This album also got two Grammy Award nominations: Best Female Rap Solo Performance ("Came Back For You") and Best Rap Collaboration ("Magic Stick"). She was also nominated for Best Pop Collaboration with singer Christina Aguilera for the song "Can't Hold Us Down", from Aguilera's album ''Stripped''.

Greg Thomas, an English professor at Syracuse University, began teaching "Hip-Hop Eshu: Queen B@#$H Lyricism 101". Kim herself was a guest speaker at the school. Professor Thomas considered Kim's lyrics "the art with the most profound sexual politics I've ever seen anywhere." David Horowitz criticized the course as "academic degeneracy and decline". Lil' Kim also made an appearance on the multi-platform videogame ''Def Jam: Fight for NY.'' Kim provided voice-overs for her part in the storyline, where the player may fight an opponent to have Lil' Kim as his girlfriend.

''The Naked Truth'' (2005-2008)

Kim released a fourth album, ''The Naked Truth,'' on September 27, 2005, while serving a federal prison sentence (see below). It earned her a 5 mic rating from ''The Source'', making her the only female rapper to ever receive a 5 mic rating. The album debuted at #6 on the ''Billboard'' 200 charts, giving Kim her Third Top 10 debut on the charts. ''The Naked Truth'' did not sell as well as her previous works, selling less than 400,000 copies. Kim has said that her prison sentence left her with no time to promote the project. There have been many rumors about a re-release of ''Truth'' but to no avail.The music video for ''The Naked Truth'''s first single, "Lighters Up" was number one on BET's ''106 & Park'' for two weeks. "Lighters Up", was a Top Ten hit on the ''Billboard'' Hot R&B;/Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks chart. The single also reached #76 on the German Single Chart, #12 on the UK Top 75 and #4 on the Finland Single Chart. The second single, "Whoa" was released on February 17, 2006. It reached No. 22 on Airplay. ''The Dance Remixes'' extended play was also released in 2005. Kim also made appearances on the show Pussycat Dolls Present: The Search For The Next Doll and Pussycat Dolls Present: Girlicious in 2007 and 2008. ''Ms. G.O.A.T.'', an acronym for "''Greatest Of All Time''", is the debut mixtape by Lil' Kim. It was officially released on June 3, 2008 and was produced by Mister Cee and DJ Whoo Kid, DJ's from New York City. Among critics, the album has received generally positive reviews. It has been called a representation of Lil' Kim's return to the streets. Tito Salinas of ''All Hip Hop'' says "Lil’ Kim shows that her time behind bars did not rust all of her swag away" on ''Ms. G.O.A.T.'' On the other hand, Ehren Gresehover of ''New York Mag'' says that although one of the tracks "The Miseducation of Lil' Kim" is not bad, he wished that it was Lauryn Hill who was making a comeback instead.

''5th Studio Album'' (2009-present)

On March 10, 2009, the song "Girls" by the Korean singer, Seven featuring Lil' Kim was released through digital stores for his U.S. debut single. Kim appeared in the music video that was released on the same day. "Girls" was produced by Darkchild. On March 24, 2009, Kim released the song "Download" featuring R&B; singers T-Pain and Charlie Wilson. It was written by Lil Kim and T-Pain and produced by Trackmasters. The song samples "Computer Love" by Zapp. Peaking at number 21 on the Billboard Hot R&B;/Hip-Hop Songs chart. It eventually made it to the top 10 US Urban Radio airplay and climbed to #10. In December 2010, Kim filmed music videos for the second and third singles from her fifth studio album releasing in 2011.

Kim confirmed in January, 2011 that she would be releasing her next album which is currently untitled in 2011. Kim is working with producer Dr. Dre and 50 Cent on her album. Kim is expected to make a guest appearance on a track from 50 Cent's upcoming studio album as well as Dr. Dre's 2011 album Detox and Tionne "T-Boz" Watkins' album ''Still Cool''. Kim released a mixtape titled Black Friday on February 14, 2011. In a recent radio interview at 99 Jamz, Kim stated that her upcoming book, "The Price of Loyalty", is on hold to coincide with the release of her fifth studio album, to be release in the next coming months. It was announced by Kim that the upcoming and lead single to her next studio album, is titled "Looks Like Money", and is produced by Rockwilder. On June 19, Kim preformed along side G-Unit member Shawty Lo and hinted a possible working relationship with G-Unit Records. Kim is also featured along with Rick Ross on a track titled "Anything (To Find You)", by R&B; singer Monica, off her upcoming album "New Life", but her verse was removed due to contractual issues.

Other ventures

Lil Kim: Countdown to Lockdown

On March 9, BET premiered the show ''Lil Kim: Countdown to Lockdown,'' which was filmed before Kim headed to prison. The show became the highest rated premiere in BET history, with 1.7 million viewers. In May 2006, Debbie Harry released a Lil' Kim tribute song called "Dirty and Deep" in protest of her conviction. The song is available free from the Deborah Harry Home Page.

Dancing With the Stars

Lil' Kim appeared on the eighth season reality show ''Dancing with the Stars,'' which began airing on March 9, 2009. She was paired with professional dancer Derek Hough until the dance couple was eliminated on May 5, 2009, putting her at fifth place from all thirteen contestants that season. During the second week of the season, judge Len Goodman said that she "''must have a bionic booty''," a nickname that came due to her performance of the selected dance that evening.

Legal issues

On March 17, 2005, Kim was convicted of three counts of conspiracy and one count of perjury for lying to a Federal grand jury about her friends' involvement in a 2001 shooting outside the Hot 97 studios in Manhattan. During the trial of her co-manager, Damion "D-Roc" Butler, and her bodyguard, Suif "Gutta" Jackson, a former member of the hip-hop group Junior M.A.F.I.A, she testified not to have known they were at the scene. However, video footage from a security placed all three at the scene, exiting the building. This directly contravened testimony before the grand jury. Butler and Jackson have since pled guilty to gun charges. Jackson was sentenced, in U.S. District Court, to twelve years in federal prison as part of plea bargain in which he admitted to firing at least twenty rounds during the incident. The length of the sentence was said to have been influenced by his previous gun-related convictions. In July 2005, Kim was sentenced to a one year and a day in prison, thirty days home detention upon release from custody, and three years of probation. She served the entirety of her sentence at the Federal Detention Center, Philadelphia in Center City, Philadelphia. She was released on July 3, 2006, after serving approximately 10 months. Kim, Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Register #56198-054, was released from BOP supervision on August 2, 2006.

Discography

''Hard Core'' (1996)

''The Notorious K.I.M.'' (2000)

''La Bella Mafia'' (2003)

''The Naked Truth'' (2005)

TBA (2011)

Filmography

;Films {|class="wikitable" style="font-size: 90%;" border="2" cellpadding="4" background: #f9f9f9; |- align="center" ! style="background:#B0C4DE;" | Year ! style="background:#B0C4DE;" | Film ! style="background:#B0C4DE;" | Role |- |1997 |''Gangstresses'' |Herself |- |1999 |''She's All That'' |Alex |- |2001 |''Zoolander'' |Herself |- |2002 |''Juwanna Mann'' |Tina Parker |- |rowspan="2"|2003 |''Those Who Walk in Darkness'' |Soledad |- |''Gang of Roses'' |Chastity |- |rowspan="2"|2004 |''Nora's Hair Salon'' |Herself |- |''You Got Served'' |Herself |- |rowspan="2"|2005 |''Lil' Pimp'' |Sweet Chiffon (voice) |- |''There's a God on the Mic'' |Herself |- |2008 |''Superhero Movie'' |Xavier's daughter |}

;Television

''V.I.P. (as freedom fighter) (1999)

''DAG'' (as Gina Marie) (2001)

''Moesha'' (as Diamond) (2001)

''The Parkers'' (as herself) (2001)

''American Dreams as Shirley Ellis (October 12, 2003)

''Lil Kim: Countdown to Lockdown'' (2006)

''The Game'' (as herself) (2007)

''Pussycat Dolls Present: The Search for the Next Doll'' (2007)

''Pussycat Dolls Present: Girlicious'' (2008)

''Dancing with the Stars (U.S. season 8)'' (2009)

Awards

Grammy Awards

*1997: Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group for "Ladies Night (Not Tonight remix)" (with Missy Elliott, Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes, Da Brat, and Angie Martinez) (nominated)

*2002: Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals for "Lady Marmalade" (WINNER)

*2003: Best Female Rap Solo Performance for "Came Back for You" (nominated)

*2003: Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals for "Can't Hold Us Down" (with Christina Aguilera) (nominated)

*2003: Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group for "Magic Stick" (with 50 Cent) (nominated)

*2008: Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for "Let It Go" (with Keyshia Cole & Missy Elliott) (nominated)

MTV Video Music Awards

*1998: Viewer's Choice for "All About The Benjamins" (with P. Diddy and others)

*2001: Video of the Year for "Lady Marmalade"

*2001: Best Video from a Film for "Lady Marmalade"

My VH1 Awards

*2001: Favorite Video ("Lady Marmalade")

*2001: Is It Hot In Here Or Is It Just My Video? ("Lady Marmalade")

Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards

*1997: Best Video by a Female - Rap/R&B; ("Crush On You")

*1999: Best Video by a Female - Rap/R&B; ("Not Tonight (remix)")

Source Awards

*2003: Female Artist of the Year

*2003: Female Single of the Year "The Jumpoff"

Teen Choice Awards

*2001: Choice Song of the Summer ("Lady Marmalade")

MOBO Awards

*2003: Most Stylish Artist of the Year

Radio Music Awards

*2001: Song of the Year Top 40 Pop Radio-"Lady Marmalade"

TMF Awards-Belgium

*2001: Video of The Year-"Lady Marmalade"

TMF Awards-Netherlands

*2001: Video of The Year-"Lady Marmalade"

ALMA Awards

*2002: Outstanding Song- Motion Picture Soundtrack "Lady Marmalade"

ASCAP Music Awards

*2002: Song of the Year-"Lady Marmalade"

MTV Japan Awards

*2002: Best Choreography "Lady Marmalade"

MVPA Video Awards

*2002: Best Styling In A Video-"Lady Marmalade"

VIBE Awards

2005: Album of the Year ''The Naked Truth'' (nominated)

BET Awards

*2006: Best Female Hip-Hop Artist (nominated)

*2008: Best Song "Let It Go" (nominated)

*2010: Best Female Hip-Hop Artist (nominated)

American Music Awards

*2003: Best Female Hip-Hop Artist

*2005: Best Female Hip-Hop Artist (nominated)

References

External links

Category:1975 births Category:Living people Category:21st-century American criminals Category:American dance musicians Category:American perjurors Category:Atlantic Records artists Category:Female rappers Category:Grammy Award winners Category:Participants in American reality television series Category:People from Bedford–Stuyvesant, Brooklyn Category:Rappers from New York City Category:Pseudonymous rappers

cs:Lil Kim da:Lil' Kim de:Lil’ Kim es:Lil' Kim fr:Lil' Kim fy:Lil' Kim ko:릴킴 it:Lil' Kim nl:Lil' Kim ja:リル・キム no:Lil' Kim nn:Lil' Kim pl:Lil' Kim pt:Lil' Kim ro:Lil' Kim ru:Lil’ Kim simple:Lil' Kim fi:Lil' Kim sv:Lil' Kim tr:Lil' Kim

Norman Connors (born March 1, 1947 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) is an American jazz drummer, composer, arranger, producer, and headliner, who has led some influential jazz and R&B; groups. He also achieved several big R&B; hits of the day, especially with love ballads.

Connors became interested in jazz as a child when he began to play drums, once sitting in for Elvin Jones at a John Coltrane performance he attended while in middle school. Connors studied music at Temple University and Juilliard.

His first recording was on Archie Shepp's 1967 release, ''Magic of JuJu''. He played with Pharaoh Sanders for the next few years until signing with Cobblestone Records in 1972 and releasing his first record as a bandleader. He went on to front some great jazz recordings with Carlos Garnett, Gary Bartz, Dee Dee Bridgewater and Herbie Hancock such as "Love From the Sun" on Buddah records..

Connors began to focus more on R&B; material in the mid 1970s after signing with Buddah Records. He scored several US hits with songs featuring guest vocalists such as Michael Henderson, Jean Carn, and Phyllis Hyman. The most successful of these was "You Are My Starship" (#4 R&B;, #27 Pop), featuring Henderson in 1976, while "Valentine Love", his first chart success, made #10 R&B; in 1975, with vocals from Henderson and Jean Carn. Dee Dee Bridgewater also performed with him on the jazz album "Love from the Sun". He has also produced recordings for various artists, including collaborators like Jean Carn, Phyllis Hyman, Al Johnson, Norman Brown, and saxophonist Marion Meadows.

His recent work, "Star Power", has seen him operating more in the vein of smooth jazz and urban crossover music, featuring Howard Hewett, Bobby Lyle, Ray Parker, Jr., Peabo Bryson, Michael Henderson, and Antoinette.

Discography

As leader

''Dance of Magic'' (Cobblestone Records, 1973)

''Dark of Light'' (Buddah Records, 1973)

''Love from the Sun'' (Buddah, 1974)

''Slewfoot'' (Buddah, 1974)

''Live at Nemu Jazz Inn - 1'' (Nippon Columbia/Cobblestone, 1975)

''Saturday Night Special'' (Buddah, 1975)

''You Are My Starship'' (Buddah, 1976)

''Romantic Journey'' (Buddah, 1977)

''This Is Your Life'' (Buddah/Arista, 1978)

''Invitation '' (Buddah/Arista, 1979)

''Take it to the Limit'' (Arista Records, 1980)

''Mr.C'' (Arista, 1981)

''Passion'' (Capitol Records, 1988)

''Remember Who You Are'' (MoJazz/Motown Records, 1993)

''Insert B (The Real Deal) / Nobody Knows - Gurus -Jazzmatazz, Vol. 2: The New Reality (Chrysalis, 1995)

''Easy Living'' (Motown, 1996)

''Eternity'' (Starship Records, 2000)

''Star Power'' (Shanachie Records, 2009)

As sideman

With Sam Rivers

''Streams'' (Impulse!, 1973)

''Hues'' (Impulse!, 1973)

External links

[ Norman Connors] at Allmusic.com

Category:American jazz drummers Category:Musicians from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Category:1947 births Category:Living people Category:Buddah Records artists Category:Arista Records artists Category:Capitol Records artists Category:Motown artists Category:Cobblestone Records artists

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