My musical tastes vary and you will never catch me caught up in one particular genre more than another. One particular style of music I have fallen in love with is what is commonly referred to as Neo-Soul, which is a beautiful mix of R&B, Soul, Rock and even Jazz. It is todays equivalent of Marvin Gaye, Curtis Mayfield, Gil-Scott Heron, etc. Washington D.C. though has had a thriving venue for these type of artists for quite a while now but only really getting recognition locally and never quite reaching the mainstream. The U Street Corridor, the D.C. neighborhood historically dubbed “Black Broadway”, has been the cities main stay for catching such performances by very talented and creative local artists.
One of these artist goes by the name Raheem DeVaughn. Raheem’s music is really something to get a hold of and keep in your cd player if you are at all a fan of R&B. In 2005 he released his first solo album The Love Experience which brought him due recognition as an artist in whom real musical talent and soulful lyrics can be genuinely enjoyed. In 2008 fans will be awaiting the release of his sophomore album Love Behind The Melody in which the already released single Woman has been hitting the airwaves with fervent play and even more requests.
Raheem has just been nominated for a Grammy at the up coming 2008 Award Ceremony for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance which is a great honor to his music but also a huge boost to Washington D.C. and the culture Raheem carries from it. Local fans are hopeful for his win and ready to show the world the talent that arises soulfully from within the Diamond District. From a city that has been known to be almost impossible for artists to gain the respect of its people, Raheem DeVaughn is one artist we are truly proud of. Bring it home, son!
Soulah Gratia 