James Mtume has died at age 76. The songwriter and musician from Philadelphia had a career as a percussionist, leader, songwriter and producer. In 1969 he recorded his first albums as a leader and those endeavors included players like his uncle Albert Heath, Herbie Hancock and Don Cherry. He spentContinue Reading
[youtube id=”ZBzhoccngFE”] James Mtume talks to Nelson George about working with Miles Davis during the On The Corner sessions. He shares the things that Davis taught him about changing bands, his changing technique and how the jazz world responded to the electronic sound of On The Corner. Hip-Hop fans knowContinue Reading
[youtube id=”E0pRXxANbRk”] New York Undercover was a police drama that aired on Fox from 1994-1998. Malik Yoba and Michael DeLorenzo starred on the show that was executive-produced by Uptown Records founder and CEO Andre Harrell. In the early development stages of the show, it’s working title was Uptown Undercover. Â JamesContinue Reading
[youtube id=”QWQQ8Hh_9HM”] James Mtume talks to Red Bull Music Academy about the way he created the song “Juicy Fruit” with the Linn drum machine. He also explains how he learned the connection between a boxer’s jabs and rhythm while working for Miles Davis. DJ Evil Dee shares his experiences ofContinue Reading