John Legend & The Roots "Unstaged"

John Legend and The Roots have really been pushing their latest project "Wake Up Everybody". It officially dropped earlier this week. I haven't had a chance to listen to it yet. So if you've heard it, do share your thoughts.

This "Unstaged" concert is reaching for big things. They've pulled in Spike Lee to direct. And they've nabbed a high profile brand for sponsorship. I will definitely be checking this out if only to see if it's worth all the hype. I'll get back to you on that one.

Hip hoppers, you too will have a high profile one day. kfox.

John Legend & The Roots "Wake Up Everybody"

Some folks will be surprised to know that The Roots will have their second project of the year released in September. It's a collabo w/John Legend. To me, they could have chilled a bit after the recent acclaim for "How I Got Over". I mean, it was just released late last month.

At any rate, the first single from the "Wake Up Everybody" project is out. The title track also features Common and Melanie Fiona. It's a remake of the Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes' classic. I only listened to the new version once and it's just okay. With the star power involved, it should have and could have been better. It just seems to lack as much fire as the original; but then again, maybe it's that Teddy Pendergrass factor.

You listen and let me know what you think hip hoppers. kfox.

From Okayplayer:

"Wake Up Everybody" by John Legend and The Roots featuring Common and Melanie Fiona

I'm actually diggin this studio session for "Hard Times" more than the 'official' first single.