"Benny Barksdale Jr. began his love affair with the saxophone in his native Baltimore, Maryland - studying music since he was a young lad, prompted by his drummer father. He advanced from his Douglas High School band to various bands in the Baltimore area, eventually forming his own band, which was put on hold when he enlisted in the US Army. Upon his return home from a tour of duty in Vietnam, he was enlisted by Philly soul icons The Dells, which led to extensive studio work as his reputation as a gifted, reliable sax man grew. Over the years he has performed with the late Grover Washington, Jr., Evelyn ""Champagne"" King, Gloria Gaynor, Phyllis Hyman, jazz organist Jimmy McGriff, The Crests, The Manhattans, Gary U.S. Bonds and others. His association with the renowned ""Chops Horns"" led him to tour with Alicia Keys, leading to his appearance on the 2002 Grammy Awards Show and his inclusion on Alicia Keys'hit album, Songs In A Minor - Collector's Edition, released in 2011.

Now a resident of New Jersey, he has frequently worked on legendary Philly Soul producer Butch Ingram's recording sessions which led to the suggestion that Benny make a Christmas album. Utilizing the Ingram Family band and the Society Hill Orchestra and chorus, Benny Barksdale Jr. has delivered a classic Christmas album of iconic songs performed instrumentally with lovely vocal flourishes, and some nice surprises such as Benny taking the vocal lead to end the album, finally showcasing his wonderfull voice. With ""Christmas Time Is Here,"" Benny has made a holiday album for the ages - one that will enjoy repeated listening for many Christmases to come."

Benny Barksdale Jr. - Christmas Time Is Here

Essential Holiday Music 2020

An extremely talented vocalist raised in the gospel tradition, Donnie Tatem has become one of the most popular singers in the Philly Soul tradition. Tatem began his recording career as a member of the group Gentlemen Of Leisure, who recorded the single "Never Had A Love Like This Before" in 1980. He can also be heard on the movie score of “The Fish That Saved Pittsburgh” that came out on Lorimar Records in 1979. In 1981, Donnie joined the legendary acapella gospel group “The Stars Of Harmony” based out of Woodbury, New Jersey. In 1995, Tatem scored the lead role in the off-Broadway production “If Only For You” in Atlantic City and continued touring as a solo gospel artist until 2008 when he joined TRU with singers Jimi Williams and Primo Wansley. The group attracted the attention of producer Butch Ingram and recorded the critically acclaimed album My Love Is TRU in 2010 on Society Hill Records, to which Donnie contributed the songs “Night & Day Dreams” and “Who Do You See When You Look At Me?” Since then, Tatem has become an invaluable vocalist on many of the Society Hill sessions, and in 2016 Donnie made his solo album debut with the critically acclaimed "Ain't No Love" which further cemented his status as a songwriter and lead vocalist who many consider the "cream of the crop." On his new EP, "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas," Donnie tackles the holiday classics "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" and "What Child Is This," duets with the superb vocalist Toni Richards on a wonderful adaptation of "Merry Christmas Darling," and closes with a heartfelt rendition of the time-honored chestnut, "Silver Bells."

Donnie Tatem - Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

Celebrate the season with Christmas Soul, Bass, EMD and Pop at the Chorus of Essential Media Group exclusive recordings. EMG is a SOFLO based record label specializing in multiple genres encompassing all eras of Music.

Essential Holidays Past, Present and Future

Tipped to be the next superstars to emerge from the Francophone diaspora are Dro X Yani, the young sons of Michel "Sweet Micky" Martelly, music icon and former President of Haiti. The boys are not merely following in their famous father's footsteps - they have been steadily revolutionizing and building on the infectious sound of Haitian Kompa, and in doing so, have expanded their audience far beyond the island. If the millions of hits the dynamic duo have garnered on social media for their standout live video performances is any indication, the brothers are destined for global domination. In the summer of 2020, their single “40%,” an inventive cover of the Malian-born French R&B singer Aya Nakamura's infectious hit, rose to the #1 spot on the iTunes France World Music Chart. The brothers are perpetually refining their sound, as each new single they release continues to expand their reputation across borders and cultures. Dro X Yani's older brother Olivier is also quite a musical talent himself, although these days he is more involved with managing the business end of the Martelly family's ever expanding musical endeavors. When Olivier takes off his business suit and dons his musical cap, he is known as "BigO." Here BigO is front and center - backed by his younger siblings on the new single "Vin Non" - a mellow, uplifting track with a lush tropical hip-hop vibe that is so inviting, it is impossible to resist.

Vin Non

Olivier "BIgO" Martelly & Dro X Yani - Vin Non

Tipped to be the next superstars to emerge from the Francophone diaspora are Dro X Yani, the young sons of Michel "Sweet Micky" Martelly, music icon and former President of Haiti. The boys are not merely following in their famous father's footsteps - they have been steadily revolutionizing and building upon the infectious sound of Haitian Kompa, and in doing so, have expanded their audience far beyond the island. If the millions of hits the dynamic duo have garnered on social media for their standout live video performances is any indication, the brothers are destined for worldwide domination. In the summer of 2020, their single “40%,” an inventive cover of the Malian born French R&B singer Aya Nakamura's infectious hit, rose to the #1 spot on the iTunes France World Music Chart. Their latest single, "Seule," which will usher in the eagerly-awaited full-length album “La Familia,” displays what’s so compelling about their universal sound. The brothers are destined to touch hearts not only in the Francophone territories but also across the globe. Their Kompa-flavored take on modern Hip-Hop will surely revolutionize the idiom and expose more music fans to the unique, addicting sound of Dro X Yani.

Seule

Dro X Yani - Seule

With so much turbulence in the world, 305 Lofi has come to liberate us from the harsh realities brought about from outdated modes of thinking, outdated forms of living, outdated ways of listening. This talented new artist delivers the ultimate in lo-fi - a peace, love and chill alternative that bathes listeners in warm and tranquil sounds that provide a clear path for concentration with nothing to distract from an all-new state of funky awareness. 305 Lofi is a master architect of all things aural, whose unrequited love of the universe provided the inspiration that gave birth to the magical sounds presented here on Ginza Soul: Tokyo 2 Miami. Music communities around the world can now be melded together in a new soundscape that bridges the gap between east and west, the ancient and the future, with eighteen tracks of concentrated pure bliss.

Ginza Soul: Tokyo 2 Miami

Mushroom High

Primed to be the next superstars to emerge from the Francophone diaspora are Dro X Yani, the sons of music icon and former President of Haiti, Michel "Sweet Micky" Martelly. Not merely following in their famous father's footsteps - they have been steadily revolutionizing and building upon the infectious sound of Haitian Kompa, and in doing so, have expanded their audience far beyond the island’s shores. In the summer of 2020, their single “40%,” an inventive cover of the Malian-born French R&B singer Aya Nakamura's infectious hit, climbed to the #1 spot on the iTunes France World Music Chart. The brothers are destined to capture the hearts of not just French speakers but lovers of rhythm globally. Their latest single, the breezy "Pinokyo," displays their Afro Caribbean-flavored take on modern Hip-Hop in its full glory and ushers in the forthcoming full-length album “La Familia.”

Dro X Yani - Pinokyo

World renowned music star and former president of Haiti, Michel Martelly first rose to prominence as one of the island's best-known musicians. Known by his stage name “Sweet Micky,” Martelly modernized a style of Haitian dance music known as compas music (Kompa), sung predominantly in the Creole language, by using smaller bands relying on synthesizers and electronic instruments. Martelly has released numerous studio albums since 1989 and continues to remain active - musically and socio-politically. Following up on his recent release “Yo Fache” presented here is his latest, the addicting new single entitled "Kole” - a track guaranteed to continue the legacy.

Kole

Sweet Micky - Kole

Nicolas Laugier, the renowned French producer and remixer currently based out of London, better known as The Reflex, has devoted his career to re-edits of mostly funk and soul music. On his new single, "The Voice Of Q" b/w "Everybody Loves A Good Funk (The Reflex Revisions)" he takes on two sterling nuggets of electo-funk: Q's 1982 leftfield hit "The Voice Of Q - and Ruth "Silky" Waters' 1980 controversial funk opus "Everybody Loves A Good Funk" and brings both firmly into the 21st century as only The Reflex can.

The Voice Of Q / Everybody Loves A Good Funk (The Reflex Revisions)

The Voice Of Q (The Reflex Revision)

Dro X Yani have been steadily revolutionizing and building upon the infectious sound of Haitian Kompa, and in doing so, have expanded their audience far beyond the island. After a series of well-received singles, including one that quickly rose to the #1 spot on the iTunes France World Music Chart, and received millions of hits on social media for their standout live video performances, they recently released their first full-length album, "La Familia" and followed that up by traveling to Lagos, Nigeria, where they teamed up with producers Willis and LC Beatz, to record the ambitious EP, “Live From The Motherland.” Always on the go, the Martelly brothers return with the infectious new single “Bay Vag” which is sure to delight their ever-expanding fanbase. The duo’s Afro-Caribbean-flavored take on modern Hip-Hop will surely revolutionize the idiom and expose more music fans, from across the Francophone diaspora and beyond, to their unique, addicting sound.

Bay Vag

Dro X Yani - Bay Vag

Dro X Yani, have been steadily revolutionizing and building upon the infectious sounds of Haitian Kompa, and in doing so, have expanded their audience far beyond the island. After a series of well-received singles, including one that quickly rose to #1 on the iTunes France World Music Charts, receiving millions of hits on social media for their standout live video performances, they also recently released their first full-length album, "La Familia", that featured DJ Khalid, Davido and Wyclef Jean to name a few. Hot on the heels of their last offering, the upbeat and heartfelt "Bay Vag," Dro X Yani are back with a brand-new single “Lokasyon”, that deals with the intimacy of an online flirtation coming to fruition in the real world. On “Lokasyon”, Dro X Yani are showing a more vulnerable side to their fans on this lover’s rendezvous.

Lokasyon  

Dro X Yani - Lokasyon

Get ready to be blown away by Dro x Yani's highly anticipated release, "Bye Bye," which drops on May 12th. Following up their smash hit, "Lokasyon," which chronicled the transition from online flirts to real-life connections, this dynamic duo continues to serve up a flavorful blend of Afro-Caribbean vibes and modern Hip-Hop flavors. Brace yourself for "Bye Bye," where they flip the script and take things in a whole new direction. Are they onto new flames or just needing some solo time to cook up new bangers for their loyal fam? Either way, they've set the bar high with this one. Dro x Yani are all 'GO' on that “Bye Bye” 180-degree switch-up, no cap! Drippin’ with infectious beats and fire lyrics, and seamlessly fusing Hip-Hop vibes with Caribbean influences, “Bye Bye” is proving Dro x Yani's musical journey knows no bounds.

Bye Bye

Dro X Yani - Bye Bye

One of the great rare Christmas party singles of the early 1970s, Funk Machine's "Soul Santa (Part I)" b/w "Soul Santa (Part II)" is a straight-up funk workout from the first note on Side A til the last note on side B. A popular item in rare funk collectors' circles, copies of this 1973 single on the legendary Creative Funk label fetches top dollar every time an original copy is unearthed. This rare classic is presented here newly remastered for this exclusive release.

Soul Santa (Digital 45)

Soul Santa (Part II)

An extremely talented vocalist raised in the gospel tradition, Lavon “Donnie” Tatem has become one of the most popular singers in the Philly Soul tradition. Tatem began his recording career as a member of the group Gentlemen Of Leisure that recorded the single "Never Had A Love Like This Before" in 1980. He can also be heard on the movie score of “The Fish That Saved Pittsburgh” on Lorimar Records in 1979. In 1981, Donnie joined the legendary acappella gospel group “The Stars Of Harmony” based out of Woodbury, New Jersey. In 1995, Tatem scored the lead role in the off-Broadway production “If Only For You” in Atlantic City and continued touring as a solo gospel artist until 2008 when he joined TRU with singers James “Jimi” Williams and Primo Wansley. The group attracted the attention of legendary producer Butch Ingram and recorded the critically acclaimed album My Love Is TRU in 2010 on Society Hill Records, to which Donnie contributed the songs “Night & Day Dreams” and “Who Do You See When You Look At Me?.” Since then, Tatem has become an invaluable vocalist on many of the Society Hill sessions that Butch Ingram produces, and in 2016 made his solo album debut with the critically acclaimed "Ain't No Love" which further cemented his status as a songwriter and lead vocalist who many consider the "cream of the crop." Donnie is featured here backed by members of INGRAM, the first family of Philly Soul, singing the heart-warming Christmas classic, "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,” which originally appeared on the popular holiday compilation “Merry Christmas From Philadelphia” - just in time for the holidays.

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

Silver Bells (Remix)

Merry Christmas Darling (Remix)

What Child Is This? (Remix)

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas (Remix)

Recordings of the music from Jason Manford's Christmas Carol Concert with the Piccadilly Symphony Orchestra and a host of very special guests including Russell Watson, Laura Harrison, Lili La Scala, Collabro and Rob Brydon.

Recorded at the Bridgewater Hall on 16 December, 2014.

11 Twelve Days Of Christmas

Remixer extraordinaire Eric Kupper takes a set of epic, lost recordings from 1982, that feature the cream of the crop session musicians behind the soulful Sound of Philadelphia - Earl Young (drums), Ronnie Baker (bass), Norman Harris (guitar), Lenny Pakula (organ), Larry Washington (percussion), Vince Montana, Jr. (vibes, keyboards), John Bonnie (saxophone) – along with powerhouse vocalists Joe Freeman, David Simmons, Bobby Love and Ron Tyson, and lovingly applies his own modern sheen, spinning them into ear candy for today’s listener as well as those who were there from the very beginning. These incredible remixes, which have individually been topping the charts on digital platforms, can now be had in one amazing collection that is not just a tribute to the past but a vibrant continuation of the legacy these legendary musicians helped create.


The Philly All Stars - Do II Any Way You Wanna (Eric Kupper Remix)

The Philly All Stars - Love Is The Message (Eric Kupper Vocal Remix)

Global superstar Cardi B continues to dominate the charts with her latest release, “Better Than You,” a bold anthem showcasing her trademark lyrical fire and unstoppable energy. Beyond its instant success with fans and critics alike, the track carries a unique musical lineage — it prominently samples “Listen Dear” by the acclaimed Welsh rock band Sassafras, bringing new life to a classic.

Originally released in 1978, “Listen Dear” reflects Sassafras’s signature blend of funk, soul, and melodic storytelling. By weaving the timeless groove and emotional resonance of the track into “Better Than You,” Cardi B bridges generations of sound — honoring the past while pushing hip-hop into the future.

Sassafras - Listen Dear

The track that bridges four decades of funk and hip-hop. Global superstar Cardi B injects her latest hit, “Better Than You,” with deep soul by sampling Sassafras’s “Listen Dear” from their classic 1978 album. Featuring the genius of the Ingram family (Philly Soul royalty), this is where the vintage groove meets modern fire—a perfect marriage of timeless texture and unstoppable energy.

Sassafras - I Gave You Love

Sassafras - Even In Heaven

Sassafras - Life Of Love

A true house music veteran with a DJ style that encapsulates an incredible range, Australian producer/ remixer Paul Goodyear, AKA SanFranDisko, has scored numerous worldwide chart hits with many of his remixes appearing in the US Top 20 Billboard Club Play Chart and reaching the coveted No. 1 spot on pop charts in Australasia. Goodyear’s credits include productions and official remix releases for singers such as Whitney Houston, Toni Braxton, Linda Clifford, Taylor Dayne, Peyton, Angie Brown, and Ultra Naté. Here Paul digs deep and brings Philadelphia soul music legend Buddy Turner's 1979 underground soul hit, "You're What's Missin' In My Life," into the modern age, while retaining all the funk and swagger of the original. This enthralling new single features an extended mix and radio mix.

Buddy Turner - You're What's Missin' In My Life (SanFranDisko Extended Mix)

Get ready for Country Hood Music, where honky-tonk grit meets hip-hop swagger in a brand-new sound straight out of the backwoods. This ain't your granddaddy’s country, its banjos, bass drops, harmonicas, and hi-hats all wrapped up in a sound so fresh, you’ll be stompin’ your boots and bouncin’ to the beat before you know it. Leading the charge is none other than Buckshot Bentley, a roughneck renegade straight from the Appalachian Mountains of Tennessee. This ain’t just music, it’s a movement. With a guitar in one hand, a mic in the other, and a harmonica slung around his neck, Buckshot blends hard-hitting 808s with whiskey-soaked melodies, bringing you a sound that hits like a backroad burnout with the windows down. From bar fights to bonfires, moonshine to midnight rides, tailgates to turntables, Country Hood Music is the perfect mix of country soul and hip-hop hustle. Whether your line dancing in a juke joint or cruising with the crew, this collection is built to shake up the industry and make the dirt roads rumble. If you love big trucks, loud beats, and real storytelling, hit play and let Buckshot Bentley take you on a ride where country meets the concrete. Welcome to the future of country music.

Buckshot Bentley - Boots and Bankroll

Buckshot Bentley - Touch The Sky

Buckshot Bentley - Backroad Boogie

Buckshot Bentley - Giddy Up & Go

Originally released as a duet with David Simmons on her sensational comeback album Give It Up, Jean Carne’s stirring performance of My Baby Loves Me was so good that producer Butch Ingram has decided to remix the track. In addition to making it a vehicle solely for Jean’s amazing voice, it’s now more danceable. Recognized the world over for her unique five-octave range and hits such as Closer Than Close, Free Love, Flame of Love and Don’t Let It Go To Your Head, the legendary Carne was recently inducted into the National R&B Music Society's Atlantic City Walk of Fame at Brighton Park in Atlantic City, NJ. A well-deserved honor for this versatile and beloved performer.


Buy Here ♥️

Jean Carne - My Baby Loves Me (The Philly Steppers Mix Instrumental)

Jean Carne - My Baby Loves Me (The Philly Steppers Mix)

Born in England and raised in the Canadian province of Ontario, Cherrill Rae grew up on a steady diet of Motown and old school R&B and quickly realized that singing was something she had a natural affinity for. Cherrill decided to move back to the United Kingdom to continue her musical studies and actively pursue a professional singing career. It was in the UK that Cherrill met Robbie Rae when she performed on Robbie’s popular television variety show in Wales, and they were engaged soon afterward. Robbie and Cherrill moved to Canada, where they began to perform and record as duo. They scored their first hit as The Raes in 1977 with a disco styled remake of the popular Doris Day hit, “Que Sera, Sera.” Their debut album, “Winning Combination,” was released the following year. Their second album, “Dancing Up A Storm,” was picked up for US release by A&M and contained their biggest song, "A Little Lovin' (Keeps The Doctor Away)," which became a top-five hit on the US Billboard dance club chart, and soon after entered the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Cherrill’s voice has grown even stronger over the years and she was first approached and encouraged by famed Philly Soul producer Butch Ingram to record a proper solo album back in 2016. A true labor of love, “I’m Doing Fine” found Cherrill in remarkable form, performing some of her personal favorite pop hits from a wide array of artists and styles. Since that time, Cherril's voice has remained a huge asset on many Society Hill sessions and releases. Her latest endeavor, once again with Butch at the helm, is a beautiful, heart-warming rendition of Dionne Warwick’s 1979 hit “I'll Never Love This Way Again,” delivered with a style and grace that has become her trademark.

Cherrill Rae - I'll Never Love This Way Again

One of the most in-demand session musicians in Los Angeles, guitarist and songwriter Jay Gore has toured the world sharing the stage with such artists as Hilary Duff, Lauryn Hill, Michael McDonald, Michael Bolton, Bobby Caldwell, The Pointer Sisters, Keb’ Mo, Marcus Miller, Christopher Cross, Sheila E, Eddie Money, Lalah Hathaway, Rick James, Seal, and countless others. A gifted songwriter, Jay has written and produced music for hit TV shows, such as 90210, Miami Ink, American Dad, E.R., Party of Five and others. Jay's funky guitar playing and production expertise can be heard on albums from artists as diverse as Sly Stone, Stephen Bishop, The Veronicas, Siedah Garrett, The Matrix, Edgar Winter, David Paich, and Greek superstar Anna Vissi, to name a few. When he's not writing songs for hit artists, Jay's main passion is writing and recording his own original music. On Jay's most ambitious album to date, with the tongue-in-cheek title "Bong Water," Jay checks all the boxes from the funky to the sublime with a little something for every taste. The songwriting is superb and Jay invited some very talented guests to bring these great tunes to life - including his old pal, the award-winning songwriter and vocalist Kevin Fisher on the rock ballad "Love These Days," a gorgeous song they co-wrote - vocalists Kari Waller and Sareet Rimon were brought in to add their golden voices to the searing ballads "I Was Leaving Anyway" and "You're Just Another Song." For all the guitar aficionados, the album features five of Jay's stunning guitar instrumentals from the rocking title track which hits harder than a bong - to the smoldering guitar pyrotechnics of "Ibiza Nights."  Once again, Jay's velvet touch is ever present throughout. 


Jay Gore - Form

Jay Gore (Featuring Sareet Rimon) - You're Just Another Song

Jay Gore - Bong Water

Jay Gore (Featuring Kevin Fisher) - Love These Days (Rock Version)

Jay Gore (Featuring Mike Nova) - Disco Didn't Need To Die

Jay Gore - Ibiza Nights

Jay Gore - Fantasy Nightmare

One of the most forward-thinking dance music collectives to come out of the Miami area in the past decade, the prolific South Beach Rockstars still rule the roost with adventurous productions that stimulate the mind and make you want to get off your butt and move and groove. Their latest offering, "Shake That Ass," brings on the dynamic duo of Tr3y & Hoop, spitting rhymes that make you smile, along with a massive dose of pure PHONK to get your body right.

Tr3y & Hoop - Shake That Ass (That Miami Ass)

Dissident Music is proud to welcome Glenn Molloy back to the label with his first full release! Here, he makes his mark with UAP, a bold and forward-focused EP that dives deep into dark progressive house, techno and electronica. With the original mix and a standout progressive breaks reinterpretation by Focus FL, this release offers something for both immersive listening and peak-time sets. A bonus inclusion is the track Cosmic Dimensions, which first appeared on Dissident Miami 2024. Dublin-based Molloy started spinning old-school vinyl at the age of 12 and has steadily earned support from heavyweights including Jimmy Van M, Chris Fortier and Nick Warren. His productions are known for merging lush melodies with driving rhythms and subtle textures — traits that shine through on this release. UAP brings together layered melodic progressions, driving rhythms and textured soundscapes, while the remix injects fresh, melodic, breakbeat energy — making UAP a versatile and essential offering for DJs and progressive house fans alike. 2025 has been a banner year for Dissident Music, with releases from artists like Quivver, Gai Barone, Lemon8, Kiz Pattison, Sandra Collins, Ranj Kaler, Zy Khan, Madison Palmer, Micke, Amir Telem and many more. Thanks for listening- and stay tuned for more!


Glenn Malloy - UAP (Focus FL Remix)

Glenn Malloy - Cosmic Dimensions

Glenn Malloy - UAP

A South Beach Christmas

Last Christmas

Amazon Stole Christmas (and Chased Santa Away)

Amazon Stole Christmas (And Chased Santa Away) (Tv Version)

Christmas on Ocean Drive

Trapped in the Hall of the Mountain King

Tony Strong was a multi-talented R&B vocalist and choreographer who got his start in gospel music before moving on to the sweet sounds of secular soul. Strong lent his prodigious talents to such groups as The Perfections, Blue Magic, The Intrigues, Taylor Made, The Ebonys, former Motown recording artists Ron Thorpe & The Hearts of Stone, as well as being the lead vocalist for the best variation of the original Intruders, dubbed The Philly Intruders. Prior to his recent passing, Tony hooked up with renowned producer Butch Ingram of Society Hill Records and recorded as both a solo artist and as part of reformed soul outfit The People’s Choice. This special release, put together by Ingram for members of Tony’s family, compiles the best of Strong’s vocal work for the Society Hill imprint and features the musical input of the hard-working Ingram family band, drummer David Thompson, bassist Stanley Stazan Thomas, guitarist Darnell Jordan and organist Bruce Alford, with all ten of its tracks getting a fresh new remix. Chock full of great takes on Gamble and Huff classics, the album also features Strong’s standout performance on Butch and brother Jimmy’s heartfelt original entitled “If I Could Only Talk To Daddy”  that will bring tears to the eyes of many a listener. Rest in peace, Tony. You will be greatly missed.

Philly Style

(We'll Be) United

"Benny Barksdale Jr. began his love affair with the saxophone in his native Baltimore, Maryland - studying music since he was a young lad, prompted by his drummer father. He advanced from his Douglas High School band to various bands in the Baltimore area, eventually forming his own band, which was put on hold when he enlisted in the US Army. Upon his return home from a tour of duty in Vietnam, he was enlisted by Philly soul icons The Dells, which led to extensive studio work as his reputation as a gifted, reliable sax man grew. Over the years he has performed with the late Grover Washington, Jr., Evelyn ""Champagne"" King, Gloria Gaynor, Phyllis Hyman, jazz organist Jimmy McGriff, The Crests, The Manhattans, Gary U.S. Bonds and others. His association with the renowned ""Chops Horns"" led him to tour with Alicia Keys, leading to his appearance on the 2002 Grammy Awards Show and his inclusion on Alicia Keys'hit album, Songs In A Minor - Collector's Edition, released in 2011.
Now a resident of New Jersey, he has frequently worked on legendary Philly Soul producer Butch Ingram's recording sessions which led to the suggestion that Benny make a Christmas album. Utilizing the Ingram Family band and the Society Hill Orchestra and chorus, Benny Barksdale Jr. has delivered a classic Christmas album of iconic songs performed instrumentally with lovely vocal flourishes, and some nice surprises such as Benny taking the vocal lead to end the album, finally showcasing his wonderfull voice. With ""Christmas Time Is Here,"" Benny has made a holiday album for the ages - one that will enjoy repeated listening for many Christmases to come."

Christmas Time Is Here

Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

Where Are You Christmas?

O Christmas Tree

Back towards the beginning of the year, three talented siblings, Evander, Shamari and MCB Hope had a proposition for Central Florida-based DJ and producer DIO: they would each drop songs with a similar theme about getting through the coronavirus pandemic, with each song musically reflecting the style of each individual sibling. After each member of the three released two highly regarded singles on the happening NuYork Disco imprint, their cousin Winston Hope in Jamaica wanted in on the action. Working with the trio and the production team of DIO & KLEIN after arriving on American shores, Winston makes his recorded debut with "I Will Survive, I Will Survive (We Will Survive)" - an upbeat, reggae-flavored jam that will get you moving while it delivers all the positive vibes one could ask for.

I Will Survive, I Will Survive (We Will Survive) Acappella

I Will Survive, I Will Survive (We Will Survive) Instumental

The Hope family is at it once again, offering up their individual perspectives on the impending Thanksgiving holiday. Big brother Evander opted out saying that he will be traveling abroad during the holidays and is taking a break from music. No worries though, as cousin Winston, who flew into town from Jamaica, gladly accepted the challenge and came up with his own track, "Frying A Turkey On The Beach For Thanksgiving," to give the proceedings a pronounced reggae-electro vibe. Once again, the production team of DIO & KLEIN is at the helm, polishing the rough edges and letting Winston's voice take center stage. Winston's new single features the main mix plus bonus instrumental and acappella mixes.

Frying A Turkey On The Beach For Thanksgiving - Acappella

Dro X Yani, the young sons of Haitian music superstar Michel "Sweet Micky" Martelly, who became the President of Haiti from 2011 to 2016, are revolutionizing the sound of Haitian Kompa music as evidenced by the addicting "Tap" – a track slated to appear on their highly-anticipated debut album, due to drop soon. It's easy to see why the talented brothers have garnered millions of hits on social media, the energy of their live show is positively infectious, their talent undeniable. If Dro X Yani's mission is to bring the sound of Kompa music to a wider audience, they are surely succeeding...and this is just the beginning....tap...tap...tap...

Dro X Yani - Tap

Detroit native and Miami transplant Teek Royal T. grew up on a steady diet of classic soul music and modern hip-hop. Over the course of development in his young career, Teek has incorporated these two disparate musical forms and has successfully synthesized them into a coherent style that will no doubt resonate among fans of neo-soul music and dance music fans in general. During breaks in recording sessions for his eagerly anticipated debut album, Teek Royal T. thought it might be fun to break the tension by recording some Christmas tunes for the impending holiday season. Originally intended for friends and family, Teek decided to release these tracks in the form of an EP titled "Spend Christmas With Me." Until we can finally hear the new album in its entirety, this Christmas EP will serve as a nice introduction to a highly-talented young artist who will certainly be noticed in the months to come.

Spend Christmas With Me

Gifted vocalist/drummer Johnny Ingram, an integral part of INGRAM, the first family of Philly Soul, takes on Mel Torme's and Robert Wells' "The Christmas Song," one of the most beloved holiday tunes of all time and makes it completely his own. As with most Society Hill Records releases, brother Butch Ingram is at the helm, producing and arranging this wonderful Christmas gift to all the fans of soul music around the globe.

Johnny Ingram - The Christmas Song (Remix)

Tipped to be the next superstars to emerge from the Francophone diaspora are Dro X Yani, the young sons of Michel "Sweet Micky" Martelly, music icon and former President of Haiti, are not merely following in their famous father's footsteps - they have been steadily revolutionizing and building on the infectious sound of Haitian Kompa, and in doing so, have expanded their audience far beyond the island. If the millions of hits the dynamic duo have garnered on social media for their standout live video performances is any indication, the brothers are destined for global domination. In the summer of 2020, their single “40%” hit #1 on the iTunes France World Music Chart. Their latest single, "Ambulance," an addicting piece of tropical dancehall, captures the restrained intensity that has become the hallmark of their constantly developing sound.

Ambulance

Dro X Yani - Ambulance

Essential Media Group LLC. is a South Florida based record label specializing in multiple genres encompassing all eras of Folk, Blues, Jazz, Classical, World, Rock, R&B and Pop including current Hip Hop, Dancehall, Reggaeton and Dance/Electronic Music.

Essential Media Group

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