Artist Spotlight

Oprah Winfrey Faces Backlash from Michael Jackson Fans Over Quincy Jones Oscars Tribute

The recent tribute to the late Quincy Jones at the Academy Awards was intended to be a heartfelt celebration of his incredible contributions to music and film. However, it quickly became a major controversy, especially among fans of Michael Jackson. Oprah Winfrey didn’t mention the King of Pop while introducing the performance, which many fans felt was a significant oversight. This performance was supposed to honor Quincy Jones, who worked with some of the biggest names in music. However, fans of Michael Jackson were quick to point out that neither Oprah nor Whoopi acknowledged Jackson’s important involvement in “The Wiz” or his famous collaborations with Quincy, including the blockbuster albums “Off the Wall,” “Thriller,” and “Bad.”

The heart of the matter for many fans is that “Ease On Down The Road” was originally performed by Jackson and Diana Ross in “The Wiz,” making it an essential part of their shared history. Many fans suspect that Oprah’s omission wasn’t an accident but a deliberate choice, especially considering her previous comments regarding Jackson during her documentary “After Neverland,” where she openly supported the allegations against him. Supporters of Jackson argue that her failure to recognize his contributions to Quincy’s legacy minimizes the producer’s influence and impact.

While it’s true that Quincy Jones has shaped many artists and genres throughout the years, his partnership with Jackson remains one of the most significant in music history. Some people defended the tribute by saying it was meant to celebrate various artists rather than focusing on just one. For fans, this is about ensuring music history is told fairly and accurately, without personal biases. Ultimately, the Academy’s tribute to Quincy Jones was meant to honor a legendary figure, but for many, it left a sour taste and a sense of dissatisfaction.

Tweet LinkedIn PinShares0

Related Topics:Michael Jackson Oprah Winfrey Quincy Jones

Up Next

Tony Rock Claps Back By Throwing Jabs at Will Smith in Stand Up Revenge Tour

Don't Miss

Chris Rock Reveals Why He’s Open to Hosting the Oscars Again Despite ‘The Slap’

Honk Magazine

Album Review

Dian Sheng explores identity, life and love with “Sid” album

Dian Sheng releases his long-awaited first English-language album, “Sid,” a genre-defying collection of songs that includes pop, rock, electronic, and jazz. “Sid” is a deep, meditative exploration of identity, relationships, and self-growth, spanning 29 minutes and 12 seconds across eight tracks. This album is a personal exploration of the complex emotions of mankind and the vitality and jubilation of life.

From the opening track, “Right Now,” Dian Sheng establishes a sense of urgency and reflection. The upbeat song “I Come From Far” examines the connection between the self and one’s environment. It has joyful beats and layers that make you think and feel like part of the narrative.

The jazz ballad “Undecided Love” delves into the complexities of modern romance, featuring tender vocals and instrumentation that showcase Sheng’s delicate touch as a songwriter. “It Will Be Alright” is an empowering anthem about overcoming life’s biggest obstacles, combining electronic beats with a rock influence.

“Seventeen” is bursting with youthful energy, and its production captures the restlessness and emotionality of adolescent life. Two introspective songs with similar atmospheres, “The Way Before” and “This Life,” match chilling melodies with moving lyrics that touch on bygone relationships, self-awareness, and the quest for meaning we all experience.

The album concludes with “Shining As Your Name,” and the final few minutes of this piece alone evoke a strong sense of hope. Dian Sheng demonstrates his ability to join emotional depth with new styles. “Sid” is an invitation into the rich musical universe of Dian Sheng, where you can both consider yourself and feel influenced.

Written by:

Faith Koch

Tweet LinkedIn PinShares0

Artist Spotlight

Feel the vibe with Sporty-O’s new EP “The P.L.U.R. Project,” a blend of emotions and sound

“The P.L.U.R. Project” begins like a rush of light across a crowded dance floor as jubilant, purposeful, and very human. This seven-song, 29-minute journey from the EDM pioneer Sporty-O is a cultural reset built around peace, love, unity, and respect.

Sporty-O establishes the emotional timbre for the entire project from the first track of its lead single, “Spirit Higher.” The song is anthemic, its purposes well outlined despite a high-gloss production. It’s a centerpiece that establishes the mood of an intensive exploration of sound and self-awareness.

“The P.L.U.R. Project” is just as much about managing your feelings as it is about moving. Sporty-O creates each record with intention, writing things that make people think on the dance floor. Another high-energy song is “Happy Together,” with Lorme and Chris Willis, pulsing warmth and togetherness. “SOLD!” has a clean, feel-good sound that embodies the community spirit of EDM culture.

Sporty-O embraces a multi-genre EDM palette on the EP, fusing forward-thinking sounds with uptempo beats. Tracks like “Revolution” with Specimen A and “Geek’d Up” with Baby Sweet provide lots of energy and edge. “Piece Of My Mind” is more introspective, while “Cheveyo” features a diverse array of collaborators and culminates in a rich, layered sound, all while maintaining a global welcoming spirit.

What makes this project unique is that it serves both and reminds people of the origins of dance culture. Sporty-O aims to help people rediscover the heartbeat of the community. “The P.L.U.R. Project” is an EDM experience that reaches beyond the speakers, colorful and thoughtful about meaning in music-based culture.