In this episode, I discuss the music of Black gay pride.

In this episode, I read my 1998 review of Aretha Franklin's A Rose Is A Rose.

I reflect on my first music review and what it's meant for my life.

James Baldwin, Phyllis Hyman, Sylvester, Larry Levan, Cissy Houston, her daughter Whitney, Luther Vandross, Labelle -- you likely know most of these names, but you might not be familiar with singer Marc Sadane or Sir Dane, as he is also known. Throughout his extraordinary life & career, he's crossed paths with all these folks and has the stories to tell. I am so honored to be able to share my conversation with him. This is history, y'all.  Mr. Sadane also features in my recent HITS article: "How Black Gay Men Changed Pop Music" Part I Part II Mr. Sadane's Facebook Page Links to a few songs we discuss: Marc Sadane - "One Minute From Love" Marc Sadane - "One Way Love Affair"  Marc Sadane - "Never Gonna Stop This Heart Of Mine" Stephanie Mills - "Don't Stop Doin' What 'Cha Do"

In this episode, I talk with musician/writer Tim Dillinger about his essay "Remembrance: Teena Marie." (https://soulmusic.com/perspectives-teena-marie-remembrance/). Here's a playlist of the songs we discuss during our discussion: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/18teHvU0MdgEjlCojTCQrk?si=3eb3b26a4ff04fb5. Other links: Tim's article "New Time Religion: The Holy Ghost Falls Down in the Club, Reclaiming Tramaine Hawkins’ Mainstreamed Gospel:" https://godsmusicismylife.substack.com/p/new-time-religion-the-holy-ghost?s=r Craig's Pop Life Playhouse: https://www.craigspoplifeplayhouse.com/

In this Black Music Month special episode, I reflect upon my review of Aretha Franklin's 1998 album A Rose Is Still A Rose. Subscribe to my weekly newsletter. Thanks!

Craig talks about his favorite Christmas music. Includes a 2001 interview with Beyoncé about Destiny's Child's 8 Days of Christmas.

My review of Prince's memoir The Beautiful Ones

Check out this interview I did with Lauryn Hill in 1998 during the heyday of The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.

My review of On Time: A Princely Life in Funk by Morris Day, lead singer of The Time. I also discuss how nostalgic reissues are killing new music.