Sometimes, it takes me a minute to curate my We Are Alive! playlists. It's a time, and an opportunity, for me to sit down with my feelings and process everything I've lived through and loved since the last playlist I published. Playlist no. 10 is centered around love. This past year, I've loved the hardest and let myself be vulnerable to myself and to others. It's been a challenge and I've learned a lot about love and those who I love(d), including myself. This playlist expresses me facing love at my most vulnerable. I hope you enjoy! - Steven Othello

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We Are Alive! (Collection)

It’s that time again: Presenting We Are Alive! (Playlist 20). This playlist is inspired by the essence of summertime in New York City. Bike rides over the Williamsburg bridge. Feeling nostalgic when flipping through family photos and soaking in our rich history. Letting art and music take over us during museum visits and walks by murals, all which are the fabric of my every day life.  

I’m grateful for the divine timing of this playlist. Creating it allowed me to slow down and just be. I’m embracing the present moment in a time where finding balance has been a daily battle.

I hope you enjoy it as much as I do! 


We Are Alive! (Playlist 20) Tracklisting:
1. Kenji Summers & MMYYKK - Love 
2. Cleo Sol - When I’m in Your Arms
3. Channel Tres - Fuego feat. Tyler, The Creator 
4. Flwr Chyld - Lucky Me feat. Sebastian Mikael 
5. Tyler, The Creator - RUNITUP feat. Teezo Touchdown
6. Fousheé - Deep End 
7. Brent Faiyez - Gravity feat. Tyler, The Creator 
8. Mk.gee - CZ
9. Usher - Think Of You
10. Gaidaa - I Like Trouble
11. Don Toliver - Drugs N Hella Melodies feat. Kali Uchis 
12. Jon Bap - Stevie feat. Anna Wise 
13. Gabriels - In Loving Memory 
14. Nia Andews - A Song About Timing
15. Dinner Party - Sleepless Nights feat. Phoelix
16. Contour - Pour 
17. Mach-Hommy - The Stellar Ray Theory 
18. Hether - Pink Purple Blues
19. Roy Ayers Ubiquity - Everybody Loves The Sunshine

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We Are Alive! (Playlist 20)

My introduction to playlists was at 7 years old. My Uncle Des would bring home CDs every night from his job at SONY and put me on to all kinds of artists and sounds. We would sit and listen to albums from front to back, everything from Rakim to Phil Collins. My life is centered around music in so many ways and I owe it to him. He was my biggest inspiration.

He passed away 3 years ago and as I was wrapping up this playlist, I realized we are approaching his birthday. So this ‘We Are Alive’ Playlist 21 is dedicated to him. I miss you every day, Uncle Des.

We Are Alive! (Playlist 21) Tracklisting:
1. Shihan w/ Robert Glasper & Derick Hodge 
2. Liv.e - Bout It
3. Tems - Avoid Things
4. Brent Faiyaz - Wasting Time feat. Drake & The Neptunes
5. Isaiah Rashad - Score feat. SZA & 6LACK
6. Supa Bwe - Entropy feat, Dounia 
7. KeiyA - I Thot There Was One Wound In The House
8. Nascent - Lock It Up feat. Duckwrth & Saba 
9. Destin Conrad - Bill$
10. Alycia Bella - Cue The Sun feat. WESTSIDE BOOGIE
11. Meshell Ndegeocello - Don’t Disturb This Groove
12. Mick Jenkins - Scottie Pippen feat. Sirpentwithfeet 
13. James Tillman & Flwr Chyld - Flow (Live)
14. Fana Hues - Breakfast 
15. Isaia Huron - Loving You Is The Mountain 
16. Mach-Hommy - Self Luh
17. Elmiene - Golden 
18. Cleo Sol - Build Me Up

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We Are Alive! (Playlist 21)

This playlist is inspired by the flowing parts of life. Last minute trips to London for walks in Shoreditch. Bike rides over the Williamsburg bride with friends. Sunday mornings in the crib cleaning and thinking of new objects to make. And when I’m stressed, communicating with my therapist to get to the root of it all. All parts of your life make you who you are. You don’t have to choose a part of yourself to love and believe in. You can be all of you, at all times. Do everything that every part of you wants to do and let it flow.  

We Are Alive! (Playlist 22) Tracklisting:
1. Ego Ella May - The Morning Side Of Love
2. Orion Sun - Dirty Dancer 
3. Lucky Daye - Over - Sped Up
4. Eli Derby - Lately w/ 6LACK
5. Topaz Jones - Black Tame 
6. Kendrick Lamar - Savior feat. Baby Keem & Sam Dew 
7. DIXSON - Darling 
8. Avant - My First Love feat. KeKe Wyatt 
9. JVCK JAMES - Galaxy Swim (Deeper)
10. Ojerime - Give It Up 2 Me
11. Chiiild - Awake feat. Mahalia 
12. Drake - Fountains w/ Tems 
13. Solange - Borderline (An Ode to Self Care) feat. Q-Tip
14. Matt McGhee - Muscle Memory 
15. Liv.e - Lessons From My Mistakes…but I Lost Your Number
16. Buddy - Coolest Things feat. Ari Lennox 
17. MoRuf - Restwell
18. Alfa Mist & Emmavie - No, Don’t Incomplete 
19. Charlotte Dos Santos - Watching You
20. Steve Lacy - Give You The World

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We Are Alive! (Playlist 22)

Download Link: http://www.audiomack.com/song/straightfreshdotnet/just-my-thoughts

The first song off the podcast I'd like to share is Smoke DZA's "Just A Thought," produced by Flying Lotus. Smoke is a huge fan of Flying Lotus; He makes sure he spits 16 bars over Flying Lotus any chance he gets. Check out the collaboration off Steve-Ography's We Are Alive (Podcast 7) dropping next week.

Smoke DZA - Just My Thoughts (Prod. By Flying Lotus)

The second song off the podcast I'd like to share is MoRuf’s "Reminisce," produced by Knxwledge. MoRuf's decision to sample Dwele came naturally, as he pulls inspiration from soulful singers as him. Check out the collaboration off Steve-Ography's We Are Alive (Podcast 7), dropping tomorrow.

MoRuf - Reminisce (Prod. By Knxwledge)

Tracklisting:
1. Phoenix feat. Pharrell - Love Like A Sunset Part I
2. Theophilus London - Rio feat. Menahan Street Band
3. Kenneth Whalum - Away (feat. Big K.R.I.T.)
4. Frank Ocean - Disillusioned (Live)
5. Jesse Boykins III  - Amorous (Full Crate Remix)
6. Vic Mensa - Suitcase feat. Chance The Rapper
7. Disclosure - Second Chance
8. MeLo-X - Too Far
9. Mapei -  Don't Wait
10. King Krule - Foreign 2
11. The Internet -  Shadow Dance
12. Like Of Pac Div - SÃO PAULO
13. Asaad - Jumanji Flow
14. MoRuf - Reminisce
15. Jhene Aiko - What A Life
16. Childish Gambino - What Kind Of Love
17. Laura Mvula - She
18. Smoke DZA - Just My Thoughts (Prod. By Flying Lotus)
19. Christión - Full Of Smoke

We Are Alive! (Playlist 7)

For the past 7 years, I have welcomed the New Year by running into it, starting at around 11:30 PM. As I pound the pavement, memories from the past year come rushing back to me, like a romantic comedy set in the bustling streets of New York City (if only life were a movie, right?). I reflect on all the things I've achieved, the lessons I've learned, and the amazing people I've met. And at the stroke of midnight, I take a deep breath and set new intentions for the year ahead. The songs on this playlist are the perfect accompaniment to my personal romantic comedy, and I hope they help bring some new vibes into your life too. If you give them a listen, I'd love to hear about the special moments you create while enjoying some of my favorite jams. Wishing you peace and love.

We Are Alive! (Playlist 23) Tracklisting:
1.Amir Sulaiman - Joy In The Mourning feat. Laura Mvula 
2. Asake - Peace Be Unto You (PBUY)
3. Tems - Ice-T 
4. Xavier Omär - A Dream feat. pat junior 
5. NxWorries - Where I Go feat. H.E.R.
6. Emmavie - Uh Huh Okay feat. ROMderful 
7. Ojerime - Keep it Lo
8. Genuwine - I’ll Do Anything/I’m Sorry 
9. Orion Sun - Lightning 
10. Zhané - Crush
11. BLK ODYSSY - FUNKENTOLOGY
12. bLAck pARty - I Love You More Than You Know feat Childish Gambino 
13. James Tillman - Wake Up
14. Contour - Trench Prayer
15. deem spencer - To Have It All 
16. Frank Ocean - Awkward (Demo) 
17. Kiefer - AAAAA

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We Are Alive! (Playlist 23)

What's the first thing you think of when you wake up? Is it positive or negative? It starts with perspective. Lately, I've been trying to make good out of any sliver of bad. I've been removing ego and pride from my life, starting with my own. Forgiving those who've done me wrong and not holding onto past disagreements. It's been a tough journey, but believing in your talents and your self-worth can empower you to walk down any road. I'm taking risks. I'm exploring feelings I usually would avoid in order to learn about myself and grow. I'm saying yes to fear and transforming it into freedom. This playlist took me 5 months to create, and it's centered around self-discovery. I hope you guys enjoy it!

Steven Othello - We Are Alive! (Playlist 24)
1. Chromonicci - Era Ill.
2. Sampha - Spirit 2.0
3. Cleo Sol - Go Baby 
4. Jordan Ward - CHERIMOYA
5. JayO -  22
6. Sebastian Mikael & Flwr Chyld - Domesticated
7. ENNY - Charge It
8. Robert Glasper -  Back To Love feat. SiR & Alex Isley 
9. Baby Rose - Dance With Me
10. Daniel Caesar - Do You Like Me?
11. Alex Isley - Into Orbit
12. Dinner Party - For Granted feat. Erin Ray 
13. B. Cool-Aid - Brandy, Aaliyah feat. Quelle Chris, Jimetta Rose, Kamilah, MoRuf, Denmark Vessey, V.C.R
14. Jon Bap - Let It Happen
15. Teezo Touchdown - You Thought feat. Janelle Monae 
16. Maxo - onedayatatime feat. keiyaA
17. Dan Wilson - Sticology
18. Aja Monet - Why my love?


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We Are Alive! (Playlist 24)

Tracklisting:
1. MeLo-X & Bunji Garlin - Carnival Tabanca (MeLo-X GodMix)
2. MeLo-X & Drake - Trophies (MeLo-X GodMix)
3. MeLo-X & Cheri Coke - I Love You (MeLo-X God Mix)
4. MeLo-X - She Likes It (Prod. By Quan Luv)
5. MeLo-X & Janelle Monae - Primetime (MeLo-X GodMix)
6. MeLo-X & Boy/Friend - About Love (MeLo-X God Mix)
7. MeLo-X & Beyonce - Drunk in Lust (Version 2)
8. MeLo-X & PartyNextDoor - Break From Flatbush (PartyNextDoor Remix)
9. MeLo-X - Sweet Bitch (Back n Forth)
10. MeLo-X - Finer Things feat. Elle Pierre (Prod. By MeLo-X & Sango)
11. MeLo-X & Wild Belle -Another Girl (MeLo-X GodMix)
12. MeLo-X - She's on Fire (Prod. MeLo-X)
13. MeLo-X - Mojitos & Little Dragon (Prod. By AbJo)
14. MeLo-X - A Tree Must be a Tree (Prod. By MeLo-X)
15. MeLo-X & MoRuf - Fallen (Prod. By MeLo-X)

7. MeLo-X & Beyonce - Drunk in Lust (Version 2)

Sampha The Great

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Sampha - Can't Go Back (Steven Othello Edit)

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Erykah Badu - Out My Mind, Just In Time (Acapella Edit)

This time of year always feels tough for me. Even when good things are happening, do you ever get that weird feeling that something is wrong? Nobody talks about how you can have all these confusing thoughts in your head and want to open up about them, but no matter what, you just can’t find the right words to express them. The frustration of feeling misunderstood, not just by others, but by yourself. Feeling like you need a break from people needing you because you need you... All of the feels, not enough space.

This year I’ve learned that sometimes when things don’t happen the way we want them to, it’s just life’s way of redirecting us towards something even more aligned. I’m grateful for all of life’s lessons and experiences that have helped me trust and love myself more, even in June.  Sending love to everyone feeling things they can’t put into words and love to the friends and family who are patient with them. We are in this together.

Steven Othello - We Are Alive! (Playlist 25)
1. Terrace Martin & Alex Isley - Paradise 
2. Rae Khalil - Is It Worth It 
3. Nail - Come n’ Go
4. Destin Conrad - Same Mistake (Acoustic) feat. Alex Isley 
5. Kenji = waiting feat. 3ee
6. Grimm Lynn - Whateva U Need
7. Childish Gambino - III. Urn 
8. Nali - 4 U
9. Destin Conrad - Life Been Lifin’
10. Shay Lia - Atterrissage
11. Gwen Bunn - 2manythings (Sai T Remix)
12. Schoolboy Q - Blueslides 
13. Liv.e - I Been Livin
14. James Tillman - Casual Encounters
15. MaZz - Angel Numbers
16. Millkzy - Russian Roulette (I Adore U)
17. Hiatus Kaiyote - Red Room
18. Yazmin Lacey - Flylo Tweet

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We Are Alive! (Playlist 25)

man in the mirror. 

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4SE3yXubdMs

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I do not own the rights to the vocals

Kendrick Lamar - God made my face (Produced by Steven Othello)

SO X BADULA

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Erykah Badu - You feel me? (Produced by Steven Othello)

Tracklisting:
1. Tom Misch & Will Smith
2. Flying Lotus - Never Catch Me (Alternative Version) feat. Kendrick Lamar
3. Erykah Badu - Afro Blue 
5. Post Malone - Too Young 
6. Sunny & Gabe - I Luv It feat. D.R.A.M.
7. Kaytranada - Drive Me Crazy feat. Vic Mensa
8. NxWorries - Suede feat. Anderson Paak & Knxwledge
9. Childish Gambino - So Fly
10. Phony Ppl - Somehow
11. Daye Jack - Mona Lisa
12. SZA - Sobriety
13. Tweet - My Place
14. Frank Ocean - Memrise
15. Gil Scott-Heron - I'll Take Care Of You
16. Alabama Shakes - Gimmie All Your Love 
17. Sam Dew - Victor
18. Big K.R.I.T. - Red Eye
19. Sampha - Beneath The Tree
20. Favela - Gong
21. A.Chal - GAZI
22. Blu - Mars 
23. Jaden Smith - Offering

http://www.steve-ography.com

We Are Alive! (Playlist 8)

This season tends to be emotionally heavy for me. Even when good things are happening, there’s that quiet, strange feeling like something’s off but you can’t quite name it. You want to open up, but the words never land quite right. You feel misunderstood, not just by others, but by yourself. And sometimes, you just need a break from people needing you because you need you.

That’s what this playlist has been for me. A space to feel, to process, to breathe.

I’ve been making these for over 15 years. Each one marks a chapter. Where I was, how I felt. Music has always been my way through.

So here it is. A reflection. A companion. A soft place to land when the words don’t come.

Find a park to sit in. Let the grass touch your feet. Take a bike ride. Go for a long walk. And press play.

We are alive. Like really alive.

Steven Othello  We Are Alive! (Playlist 26)
1. Melodiesinfonie feat. Asé – A Fool's Moon
2. anaiis & Grupo Cosmo – B.P.E
3. Erykah Badu & The Alchemist – Next To You
4. Wakai feat. Emmavie – Starter Jacket
5. River Tiber feat. Justin Nozuka – Tell Her
6. Lil Uzi Vert – Chill Bae
7.Jordan Ward – Seedalight
8. Aloe Fm – Yadamean (shes gone)
9. Mejiwahn & Liv.e – Heart String Special
10. IDK – MiLES TRUMPET (i)
11.Abel Takan – 4 your eyez
12. kwn – war to be over
13. Kelis – In The Morning
14. anaiis & Grupo Cosmo – Honeydew
15. James Tillman – And Then
16. Bilal, ?uestlove & Robert Glasper – All For Love (Live)
17. Frank Ocean – Seigfried
18. Annahstasia feat. aja monet – All Is. Will Be. As It Was.

We Are Alive! (Playlist 26)

Life is a wave of moods, and I prefer to explore and never get too comfortable. I’ve never lived through as many moods as I have within the past year. I’ve let myself fall, in order to appreciate the brightness waiting for me outside, and above, the darkness. I’ve let myself feel, let go and move onwards. This playlist is about not being afraid to feel, and even less afraid to then move on.  - Steve-Ography

Tracklisting:
1. Lauryn Hill Intro
2. Mos Def - Umi Says (Zero 7 Remix)
3. Big K.R.I.T. - King Pt. 4
4. SIR - The Real
5. Chance The Rapper - Paranoia
6. Bibi Bourelly - Ego
7. Gabriel Garzon-Montano - 6 8
8. Jack Garratt -  The Love You're Given
9. Tom Misch - High
10. Birthday Boy & Drew Howard - I Won't Judge You
11. A.CHAL - Vibe W/U
12. Allan Kingdom - Wavey feat. Spooky Black
13. Thundercat - Paris
14. Frank Ocean - Summer Remains 
15. Daniel Caesar - Violet
16. D.R.A.M. - Caretaker (Extended) feat. SZA

We Are Alive! (Playlist 9)

Sometimes, it takes me a minute to curate my We Are Alive! playlists. It's a time, and an opportunity, for me to sit down with my feelings and process everything I've lived through and loved since the last playlist I published. Playlist no. 10 is centered around love. This past year, I've loved the hardest and let myself be vulnerable to myself and to others. It's been a challenge and I've learned a lot about love and those who I love(d), including myself. This playlist expresses me facing love at my most vulnerable. I hope you enjoy! - Steve-Ography

Tracklisting
1. Kendrick Lamar Intro
2. Tom and Laura Misch -  Follow (Prod. by Tom Misch)
3. Miguel -  Come Through And Chill (prod. by Salaam Remi)
4. Jeremih -  Woosah (Prod. by Soundz)
5. H.E.R. -  Wait For It
6. PARTYNEXTDOOR -  You Made It
7. Isaiah Rash x Goldlink -  Untitled (Prod. by The Antydote)
8. Raiza Biza - Strong Woman Feat. Mukuka (Prod. By Villette)
9. Bubblerap - Girl / Cruisin 
10. Jaden Smith -  Fallen
11. Mick Jenkins - It's Love (Jill Scott Cover)
12. Nas - The World (Prod. by Kanye West )
13. EarlGrey - OverDue (Prod. by The Vamp)
14. Ravyn Lenae - Sleep Talking (Prod. by Monte Booker)
15. Earl Sweatshirt - Balance feat. Knxwledge (Prod. by Knxwledge) 
16. Big K.R.I.T. - Other Side Of The Game (Badu Cover)

We Are Alive! (Playlist 10)

Art & Music, are evidence of life. And my life revolves around art & music. It is a cycle, that allows me to wake up everyday. “WeAre Alive!” will be a monthly podcast series that I share with you. You’ll get a glimpse and listen to the art & music that inspires me to live and progress, in hopes that we can all inspire each other to do the same, as art & music should. - Steve-Ography 

Tracklisting
1. J. Cole & Freddie Joachim Intro
2. KiD CuDi - Is There Any Love? feat. Wale
3. Nas - No Idea’s Original 
4. Mary J. Blige - Sincerity feat. Nas & DMX
5. Outkast - Liberation 
6. Mara Hruby - Send It On
7. Blu - Amnesia
8. Kendrick Lamar - Is It Love feat. Angela McCluskey
9. Theophilus London - Cold Pillow feat. Jesse Boykins III
10. Jesse Boykins III - B4 The Night Is Thru
11. Usher - Sweet Lies feat. Pharrell Williams
12. Lil Wayne - Mama Gave Me feat. The Roots
13. Snoop Dogg - Think About It
14. Flying Lotus - Sleepy Dinosaur

We Are Alive! (Playlist 4)

This is one of my favorites. Love & Light - Steve-Ography

Tracklisting: 
1. Tyler, The Creator Intro 
2. Ab-Soul - Drift Away
3. Sir Michael Rocks - BatPhone feat. Smoke DZA
4. Common -  Nag Champa
5. Amel Larrieux - Infinite Possibilities
6. Mara Hruby - The Panties
7. Mary J. Blige - Steal Away  feat. Pharrell & Malice 
8. Cocaine 80s - Anywhere But Here
9. Jesse Boykins III - Tabloids (Machine Drum Remix)
10. Theophilus London - Ain’t No Sunshine
11. Aloe Blacc - One Inna
12. Mayer Hawthorne - Thin Moon

We Are Alive! (Playlist 3)

Art & Music, are evidence of life. And my life revolves around art & music. It is a cycle, that allows me to wake up everyday. “We Are Alive!” will be a monthly playlist series that I share with you. You’ll get a glimpse and listen to the art & music that inspires me to live and progress, in hopes that we can all inspire each other to do the same, as art & music should.

Tracklisting:
1. Yasiin Bey Intro  
2. Pharrell - Big White Spaceship feat. Timbaland & Magoo
 3. Dudley Perkins - Solitude 
4. Marty - The Greater Good 
5. Black Milk - Mo Power 
6. Res - Golden Boys
 7. Moruf - Story Of My Life
 8. Flying Lotus - Tea Leaf Dancers
 9. Mos Def - If You Can Huh
 10. Bad Bad Not Good - OF Sessions 
11. Jamie Cullum - Frontin'  
12. N*E*R*D - Provider (Zero 7 Remix)
 13. Kids These Days - Walking Down The Line

We Are Alive! (Playlist 2)

Art & Music, are evidence of life.  And my life revolves around art & music.  It is a cycle, that allows me to wake up everyday.  "We Are Alive!" will be a monthly playlist series that I share with you.  You'll get a glimpse and listen to the art & music that inspires me to live and progress, in hopes that we can all inspire each other to do the same, as art & music should.

Tracklisting:
Mos Def - Umi Says (Zero 7 Mix)
Me'Shell Ndegéocello - The Sloganeer
Theophilus London - Ooos and Ahhs feat. Jesse Boykins III
Lupe Fiasco - What U Want feat. Kenna
Dom Kennedy - Locals Only
The Roots - What They Do
Dwele - Truth
Bilal - Sometimes
Anita Baker - Giving You The Best That I Got
Alicia Keys - You Don't Know My Name

We Are Alive! (Playlist 1)

You ever forget about yourself? You're present – emotionally and physically – but not for yourself. There was a moment, a weeks-long moment, where I forgot about myself. I listened, I guided, I met expectations and deadlines, I broke down barriers, but not for myself. I asked others "how are you feeling?" but not to myself. I didn't know that this was happening until I was drained. I had to let myself break down, in order for me to build myself up. No ones gonna take care of me like I can. I can't take care of others unless I take care of myself first. I've been learning to keep more of me for me. I've been learning to love me better. I've been learning to focus on those who love me as much as I love them. This playlist is dedicated to self-love and to reminding myself that it's okay to not be okay.  I hope you enjoy! - Steve-Ography

Tracklisting:
1. Kendrick Lamar Intro
2. Doja Cat - BIBIO Like a Sundial (Cover) 
3. Aloe Blacc - Come And Dub Me
4. Drew Howard & Birthday Boy - Benny & Lil' Ze
5. H.E.R. - Facts 
6. Mick Jenkins - Pressed for time (Crossed my mind) feat. GoldLink
7. Peyton - Sweet Honey 
8. Tony Ozier - Nobody 
9. Childish Gambino - Shadows (Acoustic)
10. Daniel Caesar - Get You (feat. Kali Uchis)
11. Musiq Soulchild - Newness
12. SZA - Doves In The Wind feat. Kendrick Lamar
13. Foisey. - yuhHolluh. feat. Wiz Khalifa
14. Illa J - DFTF
15. Deem Spencer - Fucked Up Flowers
16. Pool Cosby - A Poem Is A Hustle feat. Raekwon
17. Terrace Martin - Think Of You feat. Kamasi Washington and Rose Gold

We Are Alive! (Playlist 11)

We Are Alive! (Podcast 5)
1. Lana Del Rey - Video Games (MeLo-X Remix)
2. Robert Raimon Roy - Ex-Girlfriends 
3. Jhené Aiko feat. Casey Veggies -  In Love We Trust 
4. Jesse Boykins III - B4 The Night Is Thru (Syd Remix)
5. Kilo Kish - Navy
6. Ifan Dafydd - No Good
7. Quadrom - Average Fruit (MeLo-X Remix)
8. Machinedrum - Late Night Operation
9. Theophilus London - Last Night (LVRS Anthem)
10. Sebastian - Embody 
11. Arcade Fire feat. Drake - Suburbs (A.CHAL Remix)
12. Joseph SoMo - Take Care (Drake Medley)
13. Roy Hargrove feat. Q-Tip & Erykah Badu - Poetry
14. Big K.R.I.T. & Grillade - Neva Go Back
15. Sa-Ra -  Space Fruit Interlude
16. Seal - Colour


We Are Alive! (Playlist 5)

This isn’t it. I’m sure this isn’t it. There’s more, more to love, more to accomplish, more to share, more to create... Since the year started, I’ve been thinking about how I’m ready to do more. I simply have to look beyond fear. It’s easier said than done, but taking things on one by one helps you to focus your energy. Everything we want is on the other side of fear. I’m going to give my all to be better and do more this year. In the words of Nina Simone, who opens the 12th playlist of my We Are Alive! series, “I’ll tell you what freedom means to me: no fear.” - Steve-Ography

Tracklisting:
1. Nina Simone Intro
2. Coco O. - Loeb Stop Staa
3. CRS - Us Placers feat. Tom Yorke
4. Spencer. - Better Things 
5. NSTASIA - Trap Or Die
6. Kid CuDi - Pillow Talk
7. H.E.R. - Avenue
8. Etta Bond -  Bad4me feat. Khalil Madovi
9. Scott Xylo - Fireflies Coloured In Violet feat. T'Nah
10. Nick Hakim - The Green Twins (Acoustic)
11. Erykah Badu - Hello feat. Andre 3000
12. The Internet - Tape You (N*E*R*D Cover)
13. Future -  Superfutureayers [ForteBowie edit]
14. Lupe Fiasco - ANKH:HER
15. Mac DeMarco - Chamber Of Reflection
16. Sade - Maureen 
17. StarRo - Sweet Lies Of Sweet Love 
18. Hypmos - 4 Yu [Badu Edit]

We Are Alive! (Playlist 12)

What’s the first thing you think of when you wake up? Is it positive or negative? It starts with perspective. Lately, I’ve been trying to make good out of any sliver of bad. I’ve been removing ego & pride out of my life, starting with my own. Forgiving those who’ve done me wrong & not holding onto past disagreements. It’s been a tough journey but believing in your talents and your self-worth can empower you to walk down any road. I’m taking risks. I’m exploring feelings I usually would avoid in order to learn about myself and grow. I’m saying yes to fear and transforming it into freedom. This playlist took me 6 months to create, I hope you guys enjoy it!

Tracklisting:
1. Janet Mock Intro
2. Blood Orange - Jewelry 
3. Leon Bridges -Bad Bad News 
4. Lion Babe - Rockets feat. Moe Moks
5. $ilkMoney - Naga feat. Tyler, The Creator
6. Aftertheparty - Bargain
7. Tierra Whack - Hungry Hippo
8. Destiny's Child - Say My Name (Timbaland Remix)
9. Smino - Smellin Like A Re-Up 
10. Childish Major - Shame
11. Cleo Sol - Why Don’t You
12.  Childish Gambino - I’d Die For You (PM Dawn Cover)
13. Babyfather - Meditation  
14. Cautious Clay - Cold War
15. J. Cole -  FRIENDS feat. KiLL Edward 
16. Buddy - Young
17. Andre  3000 - Me & My (To Bury Your Parents) (TBG EDIT)

We Are Alive! (Playlist 13)

It took me six months to curate this playlist. I felt a new emotion with every month. At first it was overwhelming, but it’s because I focused on the expectation versus the intention. Why place pressure on myself and others to measure up to a fantasy, when instead I can focus on the freedom of fulfilling my purpose? You can offer leading roles to those you love, but you can’t control how the storyline of your life will play out. This playlist captures my transition from loving within moments to finding comfort in consistency. By surrounding myself around people that stay true to their character, I can be open to feeling however I feel. Hope you enjoy! 

We Are Alive! (Playlist 14)
Tracklisting:
1. Nikki Giovanni & James Baldwin Intro
2. Solange - Dreams
3. Pink Sweats - Honesty 
4. Blood Orange - Hope feat. Diddy & Tei Shi
5. Ryan Trey - Mutual Butterflies 
6. Lucky Daye - Misunderstood
7. Brent Faiyaz - Around Me 
8. Syd - Bad Dreams 
9. James Blake - Mile High feat. Travis Scott & Metro Boomin
10. Col3trane - Penelope
11. Mereba - Black Truck 
12. ICYTWAT -  Cooling 
13. Student 1 - Yin/Yang feat. Tierra Whack
14. SlowThai - Peace Of Mind
15. A$AP Rocky - Sundress 
16. Homeshake - Like Mariah
17. mndsgn. - Stillsoundin
18. Contour - Stop Trying To Be God
19. Frank Ocean - Higgs 
20. Deem Spencer - But
21. Yves Tumor - The Feeling When You Walk Away

We Are Alive! (Playlist 14)

This playlist took me a month to curate. When starting on it, I was preparing myself for the heat: the heat that the month of June places on me every year, the heat of expectations, this summer heat. I didn’t waver though. This playlist kept me cool, which is why you can listen to any song at any level and you’ll feel the calm. It’s as much for you, as it is for me. 

Time heals all. Sometimes it’s just not on the schedule you’d prefer. Hope you enjoy!

We Are Alive! (Playlist 15) 
Tracklisting:
1. Big K.R.I.T. Intro
2. Daniel Caesar - CYANIDE
3. Cleo Sol - Sweet Blue
4. Childish Gambino - Feels Like Summer feat. Travis Scott
5. Gabriel Garzón-Montano -  Golden Wings 
6. Stro Elliot - Turn On Some Marvin 
7. Anderson .Paak - Reachin’ 2 Much feat. Lalah Hathaway 
8. Santi - Sparky
9. Goldlink - U Say feat. Tyler, The Creator & Jay Prince 
10. The Roots - Break You Off feat. Musiq Soulchild
11. Mac Miller - Objects in the Mirror
12. Big K.R.I.T. - Everytime feat. Baby Rose
13. Kelela - AHYA_SIMONE_ENOUGH_NO_BPM
14. Moses Sumney - Don't Bother Calling
15. Baby Rose - Mortal
16. Tyler, The Creator - PERFECT feat. Kali Uchis
17. Riian Raquel - More Sun 
18. Archie Shepp - Quiet Dawn

We Are Alive! (Playlist 15)

Process + Peace. 

Process – The motions we go through, the moves we make to avoid bad habits or grasp love is a process. We all have a process of our own. It took me a minute to realize what my process is. I’ve grown to respect it and adjust it to fit who I want to become. 

Peace – Peace is sacred. I’ve fought many and myself to attain it. I ran around anxiously just trying to make it. But I didn’t know 10 years ago, that this is where I wanted to be - at peace. I struggled, but throughout it, I found pieces of peace in expression. These playlists were my form of expressing how I felt, especially when I didn’t have the words to. Expression was what kept me sane. It fueled my creativity. Expression leads me here. I’ve reached peace.

I hope you enjoy!

We Are Alive! (Playlist 16) 
Tracklisting:
1. Jada Pinkett Smith Intro
2. Frank Ocean - In My Room 
3. Free Nationals & Syd - Shibuya 
4. Orion Sun & MULCH - Mango (Freestyle Process)
5. Common - They Say feat. Kanye West & John Legend
6. Jamie Isaac - CNT U SEE
7. IDK - I Do Me . . . You Do You (with Tyler, The Creator)
8. Saba - Broken Girls
9. Mos Def - The Panties
10 SiR - The Recipe
11. Serpentwithfeet - Receipts feat. Ty Dolla $ign
12. Bilal - Butterfly (feat. Robert Glasper)
13. Tierra Whack - Wasteland
14. JPEGMAFIA - Free The Frail feat. Helena Deland
15. Kendrick Lamar - Momma 
16. Big K.R.I.T. - Mixed Messages (Live)
17. Bubblerap - cool 2 b a cat
18. 2PAC - Life Is A Traffic Jam feat. Thandie Newton

We Are Alive! (Playlist 16)

This quarantine has given me the opportunity to take my time and not feel pressured to force or rush my creative process. Moving like this has allowed me to filter out the energy that wasn’t previously necessary in my life.  Playlist no.17 is centered around the process of healing and spending time with ourselves. 

We joke about talking to ourselves (especially as independent creatives), but I think it's something we can practice more often and speak openly about.  I don’t think it matters how long you've known someone, they could never truly know you like YOU know you. Every day brings new emotions and our approach to how we tackle each of them is different.  You can write it out, talk it through, create music, or simply be still and listen. Let the time you’ve been working hard for finally arrive. Your future will appreciate the work you’ve put into your present. 

Hopefully, the music in this playlist can be the soundtrack to your peace of mind. Enjoy!

We Are Alive! (Playlist 17) Tracklisting:
1. Nipsey Hussle Intro
2. MMYYKK - Mother Nature
3. emawk - tea
4. 702 - I Still Love You
5. Benjiflow - Deep End Future Cool
6. SANTI - Rapid Fire feat. Shane Eagle & Ammarae)
7. Drake - From Time feat. Jhene Aiko)
8. Faith Evans - Ain't Nobody
9. Snoh Aalegra - Nothing to Me
10. Galimatias - Blowback
11. Please Wait - Flight 99 feat. Masego
12. Mick Jenkins - Carefree
13. MMYYKK - Soulmate (Heartstrings)
14. Nick Hakim - QADIR
15. Kerby - Velvet
16. Q - Lavender 
17. A.CHAL - Pink Dust
18. ROSALÍA - A NINGÚN HOMBRE Cap.11 Poder
19. Tom Misch & Yussef Dayes - What Kinda Music
20. April + VISTA - FOMO
21. Rose Gold - Stay Down feat. Like
22. Blu & Exile - Dancing In The Rain
23. Jaco Pastorius - Portrait of Tracy

We Are Alive! (Playlist 17)

Although it’s a special day today–as I turn 37 🎈– it also feels like any other day from the last few months, which I’m grateful for.

As crazy as this year has been, it’s actually brought me back to me. I’ve had the time and space to focus on myself, relieved from outside pressures to be some way or to do something. I’ve been going with the flow. I’ve been riding the wave of inspiration as it comes, and during the lows, I let myself rest. I’ve never felt more at peace than today.

In time for my birthday, I wanted to curate a playlist that feels like calmness coming over you as you ride a bike through the city, which is what I will be doing today. 1luv!  

We Are Alive! (Playlist 18) Tracklisting:
1. Robert Glasper - Opening 
2. Jorja Smith - Rose Rouge
3. Kenneth Whalum III - Away feat. Big K.R.I.T. 
4. Lupe Fiasco - Paris, Tokyo
5. Erykah Badu - What's Yo Phone Number / Telephone (Ghost of Screw Mix)
6. Ebz the Artist - Say It
7. Ghostface Killah - Cherchez La Ghost feat. U-God & Madame Majestic 
8. Zhane - Sending My Love
9. Victor Oladipo - Forward 
10. Kehlani - Can I feat. Tory Lanez 
11. Kent Jamz & Buddy - In Search Of
12. Flwr Chyld & James Tillman - Luv 2 U
13. Black Party - Dancing 
14. Alfa Mist & Emmavie - Energy
15. Joey Bada$$ - Shine 
16. Lance Skiiiwalker - In The World feat. Nick Hakim
17. Ari Lennox - Grampa 
18. River Tiber - West feat. Daniel Caesar
19. Lucky Daye - Misunderstood (Live in New Orleans)
20. Cyanca - New Phone, Who Dis
21. Anita Baker- Giving You The Best That I Got
22. SZA - 20 Something (Quarantine Live Performance)
23. Flwr Chyld & Tonye Ayeba - Outro

We Are Alive! (Playlist 18)

How would you define worthiness at this very moment? My definition of worth has evolved simply within these past few months. I’ve asked myself, more directly, am I worthy? 

Someone recently asked me if I’m worthy. I couldn’t answer. Since then, I’ve been trying to get to the root of what worth means to me. 

I ask myself questions once a day: Am I worthy? For love, for loyalty, for honesty, for respect, for family, for companionship? I think I am, but it’s a constant process that I have to figure out every single day. How do I feel more worthy naturally?  How do I repair the relationships that I have with my family & friends for me to trust myself? How do I deal with childhood trauma tied to abandonment?

One thing I have realized though, is that figuring out my worthiness is a work in progress.

We Are Alive! (Playlist 19) Tracklisting:
1. Viola Davis Intro 
2. Robert Glasper - Better Than I Imagined feat. H.E.R. & Meshell Ndegeocello
3. G Yamazawa - Love Like
4. Alex Isley - Good & Plenty feat. Masego & Jack Dine 
5. Smino - Pecans feat. Terrace Martin
6. SZA - Hit Different feat. Ty Dolla $ign
7. Gwen Bunn - Between The Lines feat. Faith Evans
8. Brent Faiyaz - Let Me Know
9. Dwele - Old Lovas 
10. Cyanca - Home
11. Flwr Chyld - Morning Dew feat. Mia Gladstone
12. Charlie Heat - Have A Good Time feat. Syd
13. Monte Booker - Interstellar 
14. Jaden - Young In Love
15. Phonte - Beverly Hills feat. Devin Morrison 
16. Dijon - Sweet Thing
17. Giveon - Stuck On You
18. Khruangbin - Dearest Alfred

Steven Othello

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