Focus Music Notes. "Out of the Blues". Popular music through the decades

The Specials who enjoyed a triumphant 2019 with the release of the critically acclaimed “Encore”, their first ever number 1 album, coming 40 years after they exploded onto the music scene and launched the 2 Tone movement, make a very timely return with the release of their brand new album “Protest Songs – 1924 -2012”. Released on 1st October through their new label Island Records, the album features twelve singular takes on specially chosen protest songs across an almost 100-year span and shows The Specials still care, are still protesting and still pissed off! You can also catch the Specials on tour across the UK, full dates below. The Specials emerged in the late 1970s as the multiracial flagship of the 2 Tone movement, and sang of racism, unemployment and injustice making a very clear political statement every time they stepped on stage. It's fitting, then, that in 2021, at a time when the world is riven with social, racial and political unrest, that the Specials have made thi...

Today, Multi-Award-winning international superstar Sean Paul unveils “Only Fanz,” featuring Ty Dolla $ign – a captivating dancehall banger empowering woman who creatively earn their living. Demonstrating Sean's versatility and range, “Only Fanz” pairs first-class production with two of music most prolific artists, known for their undeniable hooks and melodic vocals. Directed by Myles Whittingham, the clever, just under three-minute visuals find Sean Paul & Ty Dolla $ign pulled into the vast possibilities of the web, mesmerized by the beauty and talent of the surrounding video stars. “’Only Fanz’ is for all the independent women who know their worth and empowering all the independent women who work hard to make their money,” says Sean Paul.” The single also features Ty Dolla $ign, who I respect immensely. It’s been amazing to work with him. He was the perfect addition, knocked out his verse in no time and sent it back.” Ty Dolla $ign shared mutual adoration adding, “I’m honored...

Acclaimed British singer and songwriter, JP Cooper, has dropped his uplifting new single “Call My Name” on 13th August and announced his new album titled “SHE” which will be released on 15th October via Island Records. “Call My Name” follows his recent releases, “If The World Should Ever Stop” and his gospel-tinged track “Holy Water”. In the new video for “Call My Name” JP Cooper continues to follow the story that we’ve seen in his previous two videos as we begin to see the father seeking help for his addictions, whilst the daughter continues in her own world of discovery. “Call My Name” is a infectious, upbeat and inspiring track where JP provides us with a signature big hook chorus coupled with his natural soulful delivery. Speaking about the inspiration behind the new song JP says:  “Call my name is a song for anybody who struggles to reach out and ask for help. I wrote it whilst I was in the US and I remember feeling a little isolated and alone. I would finish my studio sessio...

Widely regarded as one of the realest, most powerful and important voices in music, Ray Blk drops the video for her recent Island Records single “M.I.A.”. Featuring exciting US rising star Kaash Paige, and taken from her eagerly-awaited debut album “ACCESS DENIED” (September) . You can watch the video for “M.I.A” here  Produced by acclaimed East London film director Darnell Depradine (Aitch, Potter Payper, Jacob Banks) the video for M.I.A. serves up pure feel good summer vibes as we see Ray enjoying a cook out with family and friends including familiar faces such as Kojey Radical and MNEK. The video then switches gear and delivers sultry evening scenes as Ray and Kaash escape onto the streets of London and LA . Described by NME as “an R&B legend in the making”, Kaash Paige has worked with the likes of Travis Scott, Alicia Keys and Moneybagg Yo.    Speaking about the video release Ray says: “ For the video I wanted to have a bbq with my friends and f...