The Johnny Smoke Mystique

Introducing "The Architecture of Oppression Part 2" - the highly anticipated follow-up to Jake Ferguson's critically acclaimed debut album - Part 1. Ferguson is recognised as the ‘other half’ of The Heliocentrics, producing his solo work under the moniker, The Brkn Record. Effortlessly merging the realms of music and activism, he has created a groundbreaking album, which is set to be one of the most important bodies of work that illustrate ongoing systemic racism this side of the millennium.

Ferguson takes the listener to a world where artistry and social consciousness intersect. Crafting an array of captivating soundscapes and themes. This album showcases the vocal talents of both established artists and hidden gems discovered through Ferguson's day-job as a former charity CEO and community activist.

While Part 1 served as a rallying cry to dismantle oppressive systems, Part 2 offers a compelling soundtrack of a Pro-Black world reclaiming its destiny. This thought-provoking art piece invites listeners to envision alternative paths while avoiding the pitfalls of past paradigms.

Unlike a broken record, this The Brkn Record album keeps pushing boundaries—

By enlisting the voices of The Global Majority, The Brkn Record creates a platform for genuine expression through sound. Renowned for his production skills, Ferguson has captured the admiration of industry heavyweights including Nas, Madlib and Kanye West. However, rather than seeking popular features, he chooses to amplify the authentic perspectives of the talented youth he collaborates with in Hackney.
One such initiative supported by Ferguson, Account Hackney, introduced him to two gifted artists showcased on this album – Great Okosun and Yolanda Lear.

‘This album serves as a visceral demonstration of my anger at the racially founded status quo in this country and globally. The continued oppression of people on the basis of their race is beyond evil, it's common place and needs to end. Simple as.’
The album also sees Ferguson joining forces with award winning laureate Anthony Joseph and legendary hip-hop MC Percee P - their dynamic and thought-provoking lyrics seamlessly intertwine with expertly produced musical landscapes.

"The Architecture of Oppression Part 2" is not just an album; it is a transformative journey that challenges the listener and wants you to ‘feel’. It’s Art. A musical experience that inspires, compels, and empowers. Over to you!

Format: 2LP / Digital
Release Date: May 31st, 2024

The Brkn Record - Skull Tax (featuring Anthony Joseph) [BBE Music]

The Brkn Record - We Need Freedom (featuring Jermain Jackman) [BBE Music]

The Brkn Record - Believe (featuring Ugochi Nwaogwugwu & Toyin Agbetu) [BBE Music]

The Brkn Record - Indifference (featuring Anthony Joseph) [BBE Music]

The Brkn Record - Why Do They Fear Us (featuring Yolanda Lear) [BBE Music]

The Brkn Record - Intensity In Five (featuring Anthony Joseph) [BBE Music]

The Brkn Record - Prison Of Skin (featuring Ugochi Nwaogwugwu) [BBE Music]

The Brkn Record - The Walls Of Jericho (featuring Dylema) [BBE Music]

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Nao Yoshioka Joins Forces with Takuya Kuroda for Her Latest Single, Produced by Khari Mateen, an Oscar-Winning and Grammy-Nominated Artist
Nao Yoshioka’s latest single, “Unapologetically Me,” is the opening track of her upcoming album, born from the raw emotions of the uncertain days during the pandemic. It carries a message of encouragement for everyone to live authentically, liberated from the pressures of others when facing an unpredictable future. The funkiness embedded in the album’s theme of “immersion” is complemented by Khari Mateen’s original and energetic sound, supported by Takuya Kuroda’s powerful trumpet, highlighting Nao Yoshioka’s vocals. Demonstrating a solid identity as a Japanese R&B/Soul singer on the global music scene, Nao Yoshioka has successfully performed to full houses at the London Jazz Cafe and at Asia’s largest Java Jazz Fest. She has established her position not only in Europe and the United States but also in Asia. In Europe, she has signed with ATC Live as her agent, and in the United States, she has partnered with Maria Matias Music, supporting Gregory Porter. Embarking on the long-awaited production of a new album after five years, she plans collaborations with various talented young artists. With preparations underway for album release and a world tour, the future of Nao Yoshioka is one to watch closely.

[Bio] 
A contemporary soul singer with a powerful voice and expressive skills refined in New York, this artist blends a modern taste distinct from a laid-back style yet deeply rooted in history. Born in Japan and having moved to New York alone, Nao’s encounter with soul music led to a pivotal moment where her heart synchronized with the Sam Cooke classic, inspiring her to create music that resonates deeply with people’s emotions. Despite being Japanese, she has a soulful voice reminiscent of Aretha Franklin and Whitney Houston, combined with a strength of character forged through life experiences as an outsider and overcoming adversities. Nao’s impressive live vocal performances have achieved over 3.4 million views on a now-viral YouTube video. She has performed solo at prestigious venues like Blue Note New York and London Jazz Cafe. She has participated in major festivals like the Java Jazz Festival in Asia and the Capital Jazz Fest in the USA, making a mark internationally. Nao is the first Japanese artist to reach the 32nd spot on the Billboard UAC chart. Her collaborations with veteran artists like John Batiste, Nathan East, Eric Roberson, and Mamas Gun have garnered strong support, and she’s also worked with rising artists like Devin Morrison and Blue Lab Beats. In 2024, the release of her highly anticipated 5th album and a world tour are eagerly awaited.

Unapologetically Me feat. Takuya Kuroda

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The Resonance of Cross-Culture Arising from a Deep Musical Connection
The Passion Embedded in “My Love” by Nao Yoshioka and Jarreau Vandal
The collaboration between Nao Yoshioka and Jarreau Vandal under the title “My Love” is born from the deep connection between two artists united by the universal language of music. Jarreau’s uniqueness and diversity, reflecting influences from gospel, soul, jazz, to house, deeply resonate with Nao Yoshioka’s sensibilities, merging with her delicate and passionate vocal performance. Jarreau, known for his edits and remixes of hits like Rihanna’s “Work,” Dua Lipa’s “New Love,” and Mahalia’s “Sober,” plays a central role in this project as well.
This collaboration began when Nao listened to Jarreau’s album “Anthology” and took note of his musical sense. Triggered by interactions on social media, Nao was introduced to outstanding musicians by Jarreau, leading to shared deep bonds over not just music but also a strong interest in fashion, as they took turns guiding each other through the streets of Tokyo and Amsterdam. This natural exchange evolved into a joint creative effort.
“My Love” is produced by Jarreau, inspired by his expressions of love for his child, prompting Nao to write and compose the song around the theme of how love can transform life. The track features unique rhythms and percussion reminiscent of Caribbean and Afrobeat styles, overlaid with heart-stirring melodies. For Nao, this song represents an unprecedented challenge, breaking through genre barriers and pushing her musical boundaries.
“My Love” reflects the genuine rapport and mutual respect developed between the two artists through real-life interactions and music following the pandemic. This song, born from the collaboration between Nao and Jarreau, promises to convey love and vitality to its listeners, introducing a fresh breeze into the music industry.

[Bio] 
A contemporary soul singer with a powerful voice and expressive skills refined in New York, this artist blends a modern taste distinct from a laid-back style yet deeply rooted in history. Born in Japan and having moved to New York alone, Nao’s encounter with soul music led to a pivotal moment where her heart synchronized with the Sam Cooke classic, inspiring her to create music that resonates deeply with people’s emotions. Despite being Japanese, she has a soulful voice reminiscent of Aretha Franklin and Whitney Houston, combined with a strength of character forged through life experiences as an outsider and overcoming adversities. Nao’s impressive live vocal performances have achieved over 3.4 million views on a now-viral YouTube video. She has performed solo at prestigious venues like Blue Note New York and London Jazz Cafe. She has participated in major festivals like the Java Jazz Festival in Asia and the Capital Jazz Fest in the USA, making a mark internationally. Nao is the first Japanese artist to reach the 32nd spot on the Billboard UAC chart. Her collaborations with veteran artists like John Batiste, Nathan East, Eric Roberson, and Mamas Gun have garnered strong support, and she’s also worked with rising artists like Devin Morrison and Blue Lab Beats. In 2024, the release of her highly anticipated 5th album and a world tour are eagerly awaited.

My Love feat. Jarreau Vandal

In The Depths Of Desire

Smooth Groove

R&B/Soul, ballad, kpop, OST, Singer Hayes Stuyle, clean voice.

Source: This is a Korean song produced with SUNO AI.

On A Snowy Night

눈이 오는 밤엔 (On Snowy Nights)

R&B/Soul, Korean ballad, K-pop, Sorry, I Love You OST, clean voice.

Source: This is a song produced with SUNO AI.

별빛 아래에서 (Under The Starlight)VAR2

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Highly Anticipated Soulful Ballad Unveiled in MXXWLL Collaboration: Who’s the One They Can’t Live Without?
This song may seem like a love song on the surface, but it’s actually a tribute to Nao Yoshioka’s deep admiration for “music,” which has saved her life many times. The lyrics passionately convey the peace that music brings to the soul and the urgent need for it to survive. Crafted by her for the upcoming album “Flow” scheduled for release in June, this message song vividly demonstrates her prowess as a singer-songwriter with its honest lyrics and soul-stirring melody. The finished track, symbolizing 21st-century G-funk endorsed by the likes of Snoop Dogg and DJ Jazzy Jeff, was further refined by the Sydney-based producer, MXXWLL. Collaborating with MXXWLL has always been a longtime dream for Nao, and after being moved by his first album “Beats Vol.1” nearly seven years ago, that dream has finally come true.
Captivated by MXXWLL’s funky, hip-hop-infused beats filled with creative playfulness, Nao approached him as a fan when he visited Japan after the pandemic. That single step set this project in motion. She passionately expresses, “When I listen to music, even familiar scenes appear differently, and it makes me feel that the world is beautiful even in difficult times. Music brings me peace and brightens my days.” Through this collaboration, MXXWLL was moved by the songs she presented, and with his exceptional production skills, he brought out their charm, elevating the music to an entirely new dimension. This work builds a new bridge between Australia and Japan through music and welcomes moments that spread around the world.

[Bio] A contemporary soul singer with a powerful voice and expressive skills refined in New York, this artist blends a modern taste distinct from a laid-back style yet deeply rooted in history. Born in Japan and having moved to New York alone, Nao’s encounter with soul music led to a pivotal moment where her heart synchronized with the Sam Cooke classic, inspiring her to create music that resonates deeply with people’s emotions. Despite being Japanese, she has a soulful voice reminiscent of Aretha Franklin and Whitney Houston, combined with a strength of character forged through life experiences as an outsider and overcoming adversities. Nao’s impressive live vocal performances have achieved over 3.4 million views on a now-viral YouTube video. She has performed solo at prestigious venues like Blue Note New York and London Jazz Cafe. She has participated in major festivals like the Java Jazz Festival in Asia and the Capital Jazz Fest in the USA, making a mark internationally. Nao is the first Japanese artist to reach the 32nd spot on the Billboard UAC chart. Her collaborations with veteran artists like John Batiste, Nathan East, Eric Roberson, and Mamas Gun have garnered strong support, and she’s also worked with rising artists like Devin Morrison and Blue Lab Beats. In 2024, the release of her highly anticipated 5th album and a world tour are eagerly awaited.

Feeling So Bright

Feeling So Bright feat. MXXWLL

Funky Whispers

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“Nobody Chase Me”: Nao Yoshioka and Devin Morrison’s Punk Odyssey of Freedom
The first session between Nao Yoshioka and Devin Morrison took place in LA in 2019. It began when Nao was drawn to Devin's song “Ayako,” inspired by his time in Tokyo and his love for Slam Dunk and ‘90s music. They connected on social media and found common ground. Devin then produced “About U” featuring Eric Roberson from Nao’s album “Undeniable,” elevating their collaboration. Over the past five years, as Nao gained viral hits and Devin worked with Masego, their careers grew, leading to this collaboration.
Their new song “Nobody Chase Me” reflects the theme of immersion or “Flow State” from Nao’s latest album. It emphasizes the need for introspection away from external pressures, resonating with modern individuals' desire for private space and mental peace. Nao, a strong Japanese Soul singer, has performed at the London Jazz Cafe and Java Jazz Fest, solidifying her position in Europe, the US, and Asia. She has signed with ATC Live in Europe and Maria Matias Music in the US. Nao is now working on a new album, collaborating with talented young artists. Look out for her upcoming releases and world tours.

[Upcoming Shows]
7/18: Billboard Live Osaka (JP)
7/20: Blue Note Tokyo (JP)
7/27: Secret Garden Party Festival (UK)
8/1: OMEARA London (UK)
8/3: Good Vibrations Society Festival (UK) 
8/9: Gretchen, Berlin (DE)
11/6: TivoliVredenburg CloudNine, Utrecht (NL)
11/7: Melkweg Amsterdam [Mamas Gun (Support)] (NL) 

[Bio]
A contemporary soul singer with a powerful voice and expressive skills refined in New York, this artist blends a modern taste distinct from a laid-back style yet deeply rooted in history. Born in Japan and having moved to New York alone, Nao’s encounter with soul music led to a pivotal moment where her heart synchronized with the Sam Cooke classic, inspiring her to create music that resonates deeply with people’s emotions. Despite being Japanese, she has a soulful voice reminiscent of Aretha Franklin and Whitney Houston, combined with a strength of character forged through life experiences as an outsider and overcoming adversities. Nao’s impressive live vocal performances have achieved over 3.4 million views on a now-viral YouTube video. She has performed solo at prestigious venues like Blue Note New York and London Jazz Cafe. She has participated in major festivals like the Java Jazz Festival in Asia and the Capital Jazz Fest in the USA, making a mark internationally. Nao is the first Japanese artist to reach the 32nd spot on the Billboard UAC chart. Her collaborations with veteran artists like John Batiste, Nathan East, Eric Roberson, and Mamas Gun have garnered strong support, and she’s also worked with rising artists like Devin Morrison and Blue Lab Beats. In 2024, the release of her highly anticipated 5th album and a world tour are eagerly awaited.

Nobody Chase Me

Greetings,

Embark on an auditory journey with me, where the boundaries between technology and creativity dissolve into a melodious tapestry. As a distinguished Producer and AI Musician, I am dedicated to the craft of composing not just music, but experiences that resonate.

The Essence of My Art
In the heart of every note I produce lies a commitment to innovation and the enduring charm of melody. My passion for rhythm and harmony is matched only by the precision and intelligence of the AI that accompanies me on this musical expedition. Together, we sculpt soundscapes that are both timeless and avant-garde.

The Beat of Innovation
With every beat I create, I strive to push the envelope, blending genres and infusing my work with a fresh perspective. My musical endeavors are an invitation to listeners to explore the depth of their emotions, to feel the pulse of cutting-edge technology, and to dance to the beat of progress.

Let's Compose the Future
Join me in this symphonic adventure, where each composition celebrates the fusion of traditional artistry with the infinite possibilities of artificial intelligence. Let us create a legacy of tunes that will echo through the ages, captivating hearts and inspiring minds.

With harmonious regards,

Goodbeer Burrows
Producer & AI Musician

Tokyo ✈️  New York, Soul Singer • New single "Let It Flow" out Feb. 9th!

The track is produced by Musicman Ty, a notable figure in New York known for his work on Alicia Keys’ and Snoop Dogg’s projects. The collaboration between Nao and Musicman Ty on “Let It Flow” centers around themes of love and freedom. The lyrics metaphorically use constellations and waves to depict harmony with nature beautifully. The hook, “Love is a constant flow,” symbolizes the eternal continuation of love, conveying a positive and liberating message. The rhythmic and pleasant melody aims to provide hope to those who have overcome the challenges of the pandemic, introducing new perspectives and values.

Nao Yoshioka
A contemporary soul singer with a powerful voice and expressive skills refined in New York, this artist blends a modern taste distinct from a laid-back style yet deeply rooted in history. Born in Japan and having moved to New York alone, Nao’s encounter with soul music led to a pivotal moment where her heart synchronized with the Sam Cooke classic, inspiring her to create music that resonates deeply with people’s emotions. Despite being Japanese, she has a soulful voice reminiscent of Aretha Franklin and Whitney Houston, combined with a strength of character forged through life experiences as an outsider and overcoming adversities.
Nao’s impressive live vocal performances have achieved over 3.4 million views on a now-viral YouTube video. She has performed solo at prestigious venues like Blue Note New York and London Jazz Cafe. She has participated in major festivals like the Java Jazz Festival in Asia and the Capital Jazz Fest in the USA, making a mark internationally.
Nao is the first Japanese artist to reach the 32nd spot on the Billboard UAC chart. Her collaborations with veteran artists like John Batiste, Nathan East, Eric Roberson, and Mamas Gun have garnered strong support, and she’s also worked with rising artists like Devin Morrison and Blue Lab Beats. In 2024, the release of her highly anticipated 5th album and a world tour are eagerly awaited.

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Founded in 1996 by Peter Adarkwah, Barely Breaking Even (BBE Music) started life as a London club night, taking its name from the eponymous Disco record by the Universal Robot Band.

The label grew from the vibrant early 90's club scene with its first release, Stop & Listen compiled by Dr Bob Jones in 1996, opening the door to iconic series' such as All Back To Mine & Late Nite Tales.

A tonne of releases followed, ranging from Disco to Funk, Jazz to House. In the year 2000, the label celebrated Masters at Work's 10th Anniversary with a mighty box set that featured near 80 tracks.

A year later BBE Music spawned the Beat Generation Series of artist albums, notably introducing J Dilla (Welcome 2 Detroit) & a young Will.I.Am's first solo outing, alongside DJ Jazzy Jeff, Madlib & DJ Spinna, all of whom contributed to this seminal set of long players.

A quarter of a century and well over 500 titles later, having worked with Mark Ronson, Roy Ayers, Questlove, Hugh Masekela, DJ Premier, Dimitri from Paris, Joey Negro, Kon, RZA, Laurent Garnier, Black Coffee, DJ Shadow, David Rodigan and John Morales among many others, BBE Music looks to the future, celebrating its rich heritage while continuing to release a bounty of fresh titles.

The label’s most recent projects include an expansive reissue series from pioneering Nigerian label Tabansi, new imprint ‘Batakari’ in association with Boddhi Satva and the critically acclaimed ‘J Jazz’ Japanese Jazz multi-album project, not to mention the recent landmark 500th label release: a brand new version of 'Barely Breaking Even', featuring Leroy Burgess, Patrick Adams and Louie Vega.

In 2021 BBE Music is celebrating its 25th anniversary. To mark this milestone, the label is offering up some special projects, from the 20th Anniversary edition of J Dilla’s ‘Welcome 2 Detroit’, through David Bowie tribute album ‘Modern Love’, to a special new ‘Worldwide’ compilation from old friend Gilles Peterson. BBE Music will also be looking to the future with more exciting original artist projects, plus merch collaborations events and more...

I just do this for fun don’t take it serious

New tracks tagged #r&amp;b/soul,

New tracks tagged #r&b/soul,