Show #26 - The Chaka Khan and Stephanie Mills Verzuz Watch Party (Guest: Kipper Jones)

On this episode of Queue Points, the hosts discuss the hit show "Swarm" and extreme fan culture. They reflect on how social media has given fans a personal connection to their favorite artists and the possible downsides of this phenomena. The discussion then shifts to mental health challenges, challenges within the foster care system and the issue of suicide among Black women. 

For the show's opening topics, the hosts show love to Karega and Felicia Bailey of Sol Affirmations, they also touch on the recent lawsuit against rapper Afroman filed by police officers claiming emotional distress, Tony! Toni! Tone! headed back out on tour, and they wish happy birthday to Stephanie Mills and Chaka Khan. Finally, the episode also includes an appreciation of rapper MC Lyte and her distinctive voice, which has become ubiquitous in TV, award ceremonies, and voiceover work.

It’s #WomensHistoryMonth, and we’re kicking off the month with a discussion about producer, composer, multi-instrumentalist and singer Patrice Rushen. At a time when few Black women controlled their musical creativity and output, Rushen was in a class all her own. 2023 marks the 45th anniversary of her move to Elektra Records. With hits including "Haven't You Heard?" and Forget Me Nots, the era marked Rushen’s shift to a more R&B/Pop style, and would give us some of her most recognizable songs. Join the guys for the conversation!

Throughout history there have been musical artists who achieved what seemed impossible. After mega hits, millions of dollars made and the world at their feet, some of them experienced an intense backlash. Some careers were ruined, and some were temporarily derailed. This conversation is about some artists who fell from public grace.

We also honor singer/songwriter Blackberri who we learned is in the process of transitioning this week. We also honor the memory of Greg Tate and Robbie Shakespeare, who both passed this week.

It’s been a while since we’ve done a weekly round up show, and here’s one for you! A lot has been happening in the world of music including the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame class of 2023 announcement. We discuss that along with the importance of honoring our artists while they are here. We catch up on The Met Gala and we discuss Queue Points’ top episodes of all time, so far!

Like Jill Scott said, “everything ain’t for everybody,” and that’s absolutely true for songs. Black music history is full of songs that were crafted for individuals who ended up turning them down. On this show we’re revisiting some of our favorite songs that were almost performed by someone else.

Kipper Jones is the missing link. An important connector between Black musical generations, Kipper likely inspired your favorite songwriter to be a songwriter. From “I Wanna Be Down” to “The Comfort Zone,” Kipper’s pen game has given us timeless classics, but it’s his life that inspires the most. This Queue Points conversation is a special brotherhood discussion, where Kipper catches us up on where he’s been, what’s happening now, and where he’s going.

From music to HIV to prostate cancer to the church - Kipper takes control of his narrative and discusses his life affirming "stupid faith." You don’t want to miss this important conversation.

I bet you thought we didn't have you covered on Thanksgiving! WRONG! We absolutely brought Queue Points to you for our Thanksgiving special, and y'all it was really special. We  discussed the holidays and played some of our favorite Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade performances through the years, including performances from Vanessa Williams, Stephanie Mills and Melba Moore.

We jumped into a conversation about the 2022 GRAMMY nominations, and what we're looking forward to. We also discussed holiday specials airing, what we loved in the past and what we're looking forward to.

Enjoy this thankful lovable show!

Sir Daniel and Jay Ray are giddy and unafraid to talk about it. They dive into the iconic Big Daddy Kane and KRS One Verzuz. Did hip-hop really win the night?

Roxanne Shante really had a moment at Verzuz. Also, ABC recently aired The Real Queens of Hip-Hop special.  What did they think? Tune in and find out.

This week DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray are sounding off on DaBaby, talking Verzuz and honoring the rich Black legacy of Philadelphia International Records.