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 'Saturday Night'. Celebrating the unique blend of R&B and hip-hop in their music, the hosts also touch on the significance of duos in the music industr...
May 07, 2024•49 min•Ep. 141
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 foster, and the ability to help us collectively heal. The three share lyrics that have shaped their lives, revealing the deep connections they have wi...
Apr 30, 2024•54 min•Ep. 140
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 discussion covers a broad range of topics including Black music history, the significance of community and college radio in hip hop culture, and the necess...
Apr 23, 2024•1 hr 17 min•Ep. 139
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 practical advice to aspiring songwriters on protecting their work and emphasizing the value of honest and genuine songwriting. They also address the chal...
Apr 16, 2024•52 min•Ep. 138
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 Magazine: https://qpnt.net/magazine Subscribe & Review Us on Apple Podcasts: https://qpnt.net/applepodcasts Review us on Podchaser: https://qpnt.net/p...
Apr 14, 2024•3 min
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, its reception, and the controversies. The hosts also discuss the significance of embracing all Black artists across genres by Black radio and publicatio...
Apr 08, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 137
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, sentimental value, and nostalgic appeal. The conversation spans the duo's entire discography, highlighting their groundbreaking contributions to hip hop a...
Apr 01, 2024•57 min•Ep. 136
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 deeply embedded in the Black community, has been a vehicle for teaching important life lessons through music and representation. The discussion includ...
Mar 24, 2024•57 min•Ep. 135
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 continues to thrive in specific circles, it hasn’t significantly penetrated the mainstream pop scene as some believe. The discussion moves on to the impa...
Mar 17, 2024•41 min•Ep. 134
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 ability to stay relevant for over two decades in the music industry. Highlighting Khia's role as a pioneering female producer, the episode provides a nuance...
Mar 10, 2024•50 min•Ep. 133
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 Michael Motley, a Black history podcaster, who discusses the history of Black music performers and their role in creating the modern Super Bowl halft...
Mar 03, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Ep. 132
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 the importance of Slow Drag being an intentionally created space for Black people, that fosters genuine connections and allows for healing through musi...
Feb 13, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 131
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 Wobble: Mr. Al Pete Shares His Journey As A DJ: https://qpnt.net/alpeteinterview Show #77 - Hip Hop, Social Media & Violence: Is it still all goo...
Feb 08, 2024•54 min•Ep. 130
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 into the characters, music, and themes of these musicals while drawing parallels to contemporary societal discourses. This episode features a discuss...
Jan 30, 2024•54 min•Ep. 129
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 Hill’s artistic genius, her dedication to her craft, and the importance of her music in the Black cultural tradition. Reference Materials “Addressing Ro...
Jan 23, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 128
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 well-known figures in the industry have allegedly caused their artists, specifically citing allegations against music producer Sean "Diddy" Combs and oth...
Jan 17, 2024•53 min•Ep. 127
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 Barry's influence on several artists and the enduring legacy of his music samples in hip-hop. They engage in discussions about Barry's distinctive fa...
Jan 09, 2024•51 min•Ep. 126
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. Episode Description Groovers! We are back with a fresh episode. Mr. Al Pete has a dope conversation with musician/podcaster/comedian/etc. Donwill. They tal...
Jan 03, 2024•46 min
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 the BSOTS podcast feed after several months of silence, refreshed and ready to get back to the business of championing independent artists and sounds ...
Dec 26, 2023•32 min
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, praising their ability to reinvent classics while also creating new Christmas music. Throughout their discussion, they underscore the cultural signi...
Dec 23, 2023•52 min•Ep. 125
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 an R&B trio from New York City. Peers and contemporaries of groups like Xscape, Jade, Total, Destiny's Child, 702. You know, all the ’90’s girls....
Dec 22, 2023•46 min
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 the soundtrack, noting its importance during a time when music often outshone the films they accompanied. They also discuss themes of health, specific...
Dec 13, 2023•54 min•Ep. 124
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 discussing the impact of social media on music messaging, our guests engage in a rich discussion about their thoughts on music. We discuss the evolution of...
Dec 05, 2023•1 hr•Ep. 123
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. His album "Hot Buttered Soul" broke molds with its extended cuts and lush arrangements, introducing a new era of musical storytelling. Isaac Hayes'...
Nov 28, 2023•51 min•Ep. 122
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 music. Join us as we celebrate Teddy's legacy and have fun in a segment about his legendary man bag. Tune in for an insightful tribute to a music...
Nov 21, 2023•40 min•Ep. 121
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 glimpse into his fitness vision and how he's revolutionizing the way people approach their fitness journeys. We were also joined by legendary singer, ...
Nov 17, 2023•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 120
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 The Transatlantic Connection: UK R&B and Hip-Hop: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RHcJOfOxMng The Power of the Drop: Trip Hop and Drum & Bass Sh...
Nov 03, 2023•35 min•Ep. 119
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 anniversary of hip hop show where Big Daddy Kane’s set was interrupted. Tune in for what she witnessed and more on this episode. Watch Ke Turner discuss her ...
Oct 25, 2023•46 min•Ep. 118
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 for behind the scenes content: https://magazine.queuepoints.com Enjoy Queue Points? Leave us a tip on Patreon: https://qpnt.net/tipjar Become a Que...
Oct 13, 2023•41 min•Ep. 117
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 these issues and create a better future for the culture. As hip hop has already infiltrated the entire world, now it's time to spread its values and ...
Oct 03, 2023•40 min•Ep. 116
