In this episode of Queue Points Podcast, hosts DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray explore the legendary career of Teena Marie, discussing her significance in Black music history and her status as a uniquely accepted white artist within the Black community. They share their thoughts on how Teena Marie's work and persona would be received in the current socia…

In this episode, DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray, reminisce about the impact of the musical duo Zhané. The two first discussed the duo during our conversation about the Roll Wit That Flava compilation album where Zhané’s “Hey, Mr. DJ” became the breakout hit. In this episode the hosts discuss their debut album 'Pronounced Jah-Nay' and the follow-up 'Satu…

In this episode of Queue Points Podcast, DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray are joined by special guest Latrice Sampson Richards. The conversation focuses on the themes of lyrics and intimacy in music, exploring personal and societal healing through slow jams and other styles of music. Latrice shares her thoughts on the emotional connections that music can …

For Women’s History Month 2024, DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray hosted a live audience at JBs Record Lounge in Atlanta to celebrate the contributions of women to hip hop in Atlanta beyond. The hosts are joined by guests Tosha Love and Empress Rah, and they explore the changing landscape of music discovery from traditional radio to social media. The discu…

In this episode of Queue Points, hosts DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray are joined by guest Brian Patrick Davis, a digital artist, creative director and songwriter. The discussion provides a deep dive into the nuances of songwriting, music creation, and navigating the music business. Brian shares his journey and the importance of collaboration, giving pra…

Queue Points is the Black Podcasting Award and Ambie Award nominated music podcast that is dropping the needle on Black Music history and celebrating Black music through meaningful dialogue. The show is hosted by DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray. Topics: #QueuePoints #MusicDiscussion #BlackPodcasters #BlackMusic #MusicPodcast Get More In Queue Points Maga…

In this episode of the Queue Points Podcast, hosts Jay Ray and DJ Sir Daniel discuss Beyoncé's 'Cowboy Carter' album, exploring its themes, guest artists, and the broader impact on the music industry and society. Guest Big Mike joins the discussion, bringing insights from his experience in country radio. They delve into the nuances of the album, it…

In this episode of Queue Points, hosts DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray embark on an in-depth discussion and ranking of albums by the iconic female hip hop group Salt-N-Pepa. They explore the cultural significance, commercial success, and personal anecdotes associated with each album, evaluating them based on various criteria such as cultural impact, sent…

DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray dive into the rich tapestry of Black music history through the lens of the iconic children's show, Sesame Street. This episode centers Sesame Street's global influence on children's growth, development, and empowerment. Amid discussing the current concerns about online safety they explore how Sesame Street, with its roots …

On this episode of Queue Points podcast, hosts DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray discuss the misunderstanding and underappreciation of House music in today's pop culture, using a recent tweet, by @thunter86, about the current music era as a springboard. They argue against the claim that we're in a grand House renaissance, pointing out that while House cont…

On this episode DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray delve into the complex legacy of hip hop artist Khia. Despite the controversies surrounding her, including both homophobic and transphobic statements, Khia's significant contributions to the hip hop genre are explored. The hosts discuss Khia's early life, her success as an independent artist, and her abilit…

In this episode of Queue Points, DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray take a deep dive into the career and legacy of Grammy-winning, multi-talented artist, Usher Raymond. The podcast also explores Usher's contributions to diversifying the Black music scene, his 2024 Super Bowl performance, and his new album ‘Coming Home’. Additionally, the hosts welcome guest…

Whitney Jones, founder of Atlanta-based event Slow Drag, is here to discuss her journey and the significance of slow jams in reconnecting Black folks to one another. The trio chat about the way Black culture engages with music, and the restorative potential of slow jams for eliciting vulnerability and intimacy within the community. Whitney shares t…

DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray welcome special guest, Mr. Al Pete, to discuss the impact of producer and rapper, J Dilla on the music industry, remembering his work and legacy. They commemorate J Dilla's birthday, reflect on his unique style, and highlight their favorite Dilla productions and songs. Check Out Mr. Al Pete on Queue Points The Tables Might…

In this episode of Queue Points podcast, hosts DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray explore the importance of Broadway musicals in Black music film history. They discuss the symbolism, impact, and significance of the films 'Dreamgirls' (2006) and 'The Color Purple' (2023), both as iconic cultural narratives and conduits of Black music history. They delve deep…

In this episode of the Queue Points Podcast, hosts DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray delve into the career and legacy of Lauryn Hill. We discuss her musical beginnings, the impact of her debut solo album 'The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill', and the many controversies that surround her. Throughout their conversation, we try to offer nuanced perspectives on Hi…

DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray engage in a candid discussion about the harsh realities within the music industry, and how it impacts Black artists. They share insights on the predatory nature of recording contracts, likening them to predatory loans, and the exploitation and harm that many artists have endured. They also underscore the harm that some wel…

In this episode of Queue Points Podcast, hosts DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray discuss the life and musical legacy of renowned soul and R&B artist, Barry White. They delve into Barry's musical career as a producer, writer, and singer, and his cultural impact as a 'prototype' for Black male sexuality in the music industry. The hosts also shed light on Bar…

Award-winning hip hop musician, podcaster, journalist and founder of Mister Peterson’s Neighborhood/The MPN Network, Mr. Al Pete has a dope show called The Groove Suite. We’re honored to share this show in our last feed swap for the holiday season. In this episode Al is talking with Webby Award-winner musician, podcaster and producer Donwill. Episo…

Jason Randall Smith aka Macedonia is one of the great audio selectors and musical scholars in podcasting. We are delighted and honored to welcome his podcast Radio BSOTS to Queue Points to share with all of you. Enjoy this sonic journey through some of creative commons best gems. Episode Description This episode represented a much-needed return to …

In this episode of Queue Points, DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray discuss the history and relevance of Black Christmas music. They go over the Top 10 Black Christmas albums ranked by Essence magazine, debating their merits and sharing personal anecdotes about the albums. DJ Sir Daniel also highlights the new Christmas albums from Brandy and Robert Glasper…

We are proud to welcome our friends They Reminisce Over You to the Queue Points feed! Miguel and Christina have joined us on Queue Points before, and we know their show is one you’ll want to check out. Follow them @troypodcast on social media and on their website at https://troypodcast.com. Episode Description On this episode, we are talking about …

In this episode of Queue Points, DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray discuss the 1997 film and soundtrack "Soul Food". They examine the impact of the film and its soundtrack on Black culture and music history. The episode focuses on "Soul Food's" narrative about family dynamics and resilience, and the role of music in the Black experience. The hosts explore …

On this episode, recorded live at JB’s Record Lounge, we explore the intertwining threads of music, family, and generational connections. DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray are joined by Kimberly Stewart Lucas and her son Solomon Stewart Lucas as well as Michelle Dawes Birt and her son Christopher Birt. From sharing musical influences and memories to discus…

From Stax Records to 'Shaft', dive into the music & influence of soul icon Isaac Hayes. As the needle drops on the conversation about Isaac Hayes, we are reminded of his profound contributions to music; he was a craftsman of the soul sound. His songwriting prowess birthed anthems like "Soul Man" and "Hold On, I'm Comin" that still resonate today. H…

Dive into the soulful world of Teddy Pendergrass with DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray in this episode of Queue Points. Exploring his profound impact on R&B and soul, we discuss Teddy's journey from Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes to his iconic solo career. Delve into his unique voice, influence on the disco era, and his emotional depth that transcends mus…

On #InternationalPodcastDay (September 30th), Queue Points hosted our first live event at Fit360, 700 Miami Circle, NE in the Buckhead-area of Atlanta. Guests got to join Queue Points for a live podcast taping, and a free work out session! DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray hosted our host for the live, and the owner of Fit360 Fitzroy Smith. Fitz gave us a …

Join hosts DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray as they welcome special guest Jason Randall Smith, host of the Radio BSOTS podcast. Discover the importance of having a balanced perspective on music, the rise of DIY musicians and Creative Commons licenses, and the influence of trusted music selectors. Watch Jason Randall Smith On Other Queue Points Episodes Th…

In this episode, DJ Sir Daniel is joined by multi-hyphenate artist Ke Turner. Ke takes us on a journey through her experiences and observations while living abroad in the UK. The two delve into the impact of hip hop across the pond and the celebration of rap music during the 50th anniversary. Ke was present during the much-discussed UK 50th anniver…

On this episode of Queue Points, we dive into the Foreign Exchange's album Leave It All Behind as it celebrates 15. From the gestation and creation of their debut rap album via the Okayplayer message boards to the complete 180 of releasing an R&B album, Leave It All Behind emerges as an important and enduring musical artifact. Join our newsletter f…

We have often discussed the importance of hip hop as a dominant cultural force worldwide. Today, we're tackling the question: Is hip hop dead? Join DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray as they explore the complex issues of homophobia, transphobia, and misogyny within hip hop culture. Despite these challenges, our hosts advocate for unity as a means to address…

On this hot topic episode, we discuss the recent announcement by the head of the Grammy Committee about AI in music. We explore the evolving rules surrounding AI songs and ponder who will be eligible for nominations in the future. We take a trip down memory lane to the empowering era of the 1980s, where music and visuals reflected themes of Black w…

Navigating critical judgment and personal trials to releasing a soul-stirring album, Foxy Brown's journey is full of highs and lows, from health issues to career-defining moments we are asking the question “why is Foxy Brown not being celebrated during #HipHop50?” Purchase Tickets To Afros & Audio: https://qpnt.net/afrosandaudio23 Listen to Queue P…

There was a rumble coming out of the UK in the early-1990s. With the heavy influence of hip-hop came new styles that changed the way many experienced the music they loved. From the early days of Jungle that birthed Drum and Bass to to Trip Hops genre bending sounds, the crew continues our musical journey to the UK with, guest, Jason Randall Smith o…

The US and the UK have always talked to each other through our music - inspiring one another to create something new and innovative. On this episode we explore UK R&B and Hip-Hop. We reminisce on some of our favorite artists, and how they impacted the United States music scene. From Loose Ends to Neneh Cherry to Sade, and much more. Join us along w…

There isn’t a time when the resilience of Black women hasn’t been a source of inspiration. The resonance in the singing voices of some of these women gave way to some of the biggest hits in House music history. Black women are the unsung heroines of the genre. ABC recently aired a segment on Good Morning America called “Queens of 90s House Music,” …

In the lexicon of great rap voices - Snoop Dogg absolutely stands as one of a kind. From his beginning as a young, talented rapper on Death Row’s roster to becoming a staple on “Madison Ave.,” selling us everything from beer and wine to food, Snoop is the definition of a survivor. His journey and evolution is inspiring. For #HipHop50 let's celebrat…

Black bodies have always been used to sell products. Fast food has embedded ourselves into our memories - the smells, the childhood nostalgia, the music. On this episode, our hosts DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray delve into the strategic ways in which the food industry has used marketing and music to insert itself into our lives. Watch this episode on ou…

On this episode of Queue points, in our ongoing #HipHop50 series, we spotlight the influential Idol Makers crew and the 1988 release, "Hurby's Machine." Our focus is Hurby "Luv Bug" Azor, a prodigious and prolific producer and writer whose career seemingly froze in the late '90s, and who has remained largely silent in recent decades. Join DJ Sir Da…

In this bonus clip, guest Donovan X. Ramsey, reads from his book "When Crack Was King: A People’s History of a Misunderstood Era” highlighting the move from the use of crack to chronic. Ramsey reads from his chapter “Intervention” which explores how popular hip hop albums and songs of the late 80s and 90s played a significant role in shifting attit…

On this episode of Queue Points, we delve into the book, "When Crack Was King: A People's History of a Misunderstood Era” with author Donovan X. Ramsey. Donovan discusses the tragic legacy of the crack epidemic through the eyes of four individuals, illuminating the vulnerability and resilience of the Black community. We discuss topics like harm red…

As part of our year-long #HipHop50 celebration, and to close out #BlackMusicMonth, Queue Points is going down memory lane to discuss the impact of the timeless Black youth coming-of-age film House Party. They are joined by special guest Jordan Clark, a comic book writer and co-host of the podcast White People Won’t Save You. The fellas discuss the …

We’re back after a week off! In this thought-provoking podcast episode, we delve into a significant issue: the scarcity of songs about Black fathers. As the United States recently celebrated Father's Day, we couldn't help but notice the absence of such musical tributes. Dr. Ed Garnes joins us as we unravel this phenomenon, analyze its underlying ca…

“She was Cinderella for Christ’s sake!” - DJ Sir Daniel Join us on a journey as we delve into the remarkable and multifaceted career of “the vocal bible” Brandy Norwood, the renowned singer, songwriter, and actress who has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. During this show, we unravel the layers of Brandy's legendary early caree…

Venture into the heart of music history as we explore 'Love to Love You, Donna Summer', the poignant documentary co-directed by Summer’s daughter Brooklyn Sudano. Summer’s accomplishments include an incredible 16 #1 Billboard Dance hits. DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray discuss the documentary, Summer’s career and lasting impact of her legacy. Before that…

Tina Turner is a legend of the highest order. That term is thrown around a lot, but Ms. Turner has put in the work and the sweat to BE it. With a career that spanned more than 60 years, Ms. Turner did it all from dance to TV to Rock to Soul to Disco. She is forever the Queen of Rock & Roll, and on this Queue Points, we’re honoring the legacy of the…

Black queer women are leading the way in 2023 by both releasing new and compelling music and visuals, and also being part of the pop culture conversation. From Janelle Monae’s “Lipstick Lover” to Da Brat’s pregnancy, we’ve been inspired watching the moves these ladies are making. Join us as we discuss some history of Black queer women in music and …

Can you all believe it? We certainly can’t! It’s been two years since we started Queue Points and 100 official episodes of the show! On this episode we are going to reflect on this milestone, play some shoutouts from some of our listeners and discuss the documentary Marley. Join us, reminisce, and share your memories with us. Watch Marley: https://…

It’s been a while since we’ve done a weekly round up show, and here’s one for you! A lot has been happening in the world of music including the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame class of 2023 announcement. We discuss that along with the importance of honoring our artists while they are here. We catch up on The Met Gala and we discuss Queue Points’ top episo…

We hear it all the time - “is (insert artist here) the next Michael Jackson?,” “I wish we had another Whitney Houston.” The question we’re asking all of us is “is it possible to have another artist who are one of one?” Why do we keep searching? Join us for this discussion about artists who can’t be replicated. In addition, the hosts have seen the d…