Three-time Grammy nominated recording artist-songwriter and producer, Raheem Devaughn releases his highly anticipated sixth studio album, “Decade of a Love King“. The album is available today, October 19th, 2018. Raheem is currently enjoying the success of the chart-topping #5 R&B single in the country, “Don’t Come Easy“. The second single lifted from the “DOALK” album is the infectious “What It Feels Like”, written by Raheem Devaughn and produced by Wendell “Mista Grinch” Hanes and “Jazzy Yo” of Volition.
“This album right here is hand-crafted to impregnate the world…bring people together. I’m here to be one of the greatest of my generation. And that’s not based on album sales and hype, or what reality show I’m on. It’s purely based on the music, based on the culture…and based on style and grace. I’m growing up not only musically, but personally. It’s kind of like the story of the phoenix rising…I’m coming out of the fire”, mentions Raheem.
Raheem Devaughn is gearing up for his upcoming national tour kicking-off early 2019. “The Love King” himself, can be seen in a comedic role in the upcoming film “Lovedotcom,” as well as continuing to focus on his Love Life Foundation, whose initiatives include domestic violence, art and education, HIV/AIDS and the Text Book Scholarship for in-need students.
“Decade of A Love King” Tracklist:
- What It Feels Like
- Don’t Come Easy
- Wifey (featuring Phil Ade)
- Say The Word
- That Way (Act I)
- Another Round (featuring Chaz French)
- Love Sex Passion
- Roses (featuring Yahzarah)
- #BFF (featuring Fat Trel)
- Come Together
- Reverse (featuring Roxy Reynolds)
- Temperature’s Rising (Act II)
- When Its Real
About Raheem DeVaughn
In the midst of his now decade-long steady climb to international R&B notoriety and prominence, he’s been the singers’ singer, a consummate ladies’ man, the fellas’ fella and the “go-to” modern-day R&B/soul crooner with sensibilities simultaneously grounded in the past and the present. Indeed, RAHEEM DEVAUGHN has been many things to contemporary music culture and his ever-expanding core audience, for which he’s amassed a combination of prestigious award honors/nominations and multiple chart-topping releases. “There’s a lot of talk about ‘King of R&B’ and ‘King of Soul,” but I’ve got enough music for the next ten years,” says the three-time Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter. “I literally have enough music for the decade to release. If I stopped recording now and said I wouldn’t record for five years, I’ve got enough music for ten. So I can’t wait, because I’m just warming up.” Hence, on this soul-steeped occasion of his sixth highly-anticipated full-length release, we’ll officially proclaim it as the Decade of a Love King.
In a current music climate seemingly fixated on other genres, RAHEEM DEVAUGHN has carved an impressive niche for himself which boasts a faithful core audience, respect from music critics/taste-makers and multiple Billboard chart hits. Come to find out, it has everything to do with RAHEEM being guy-next-door relatable and truly knowing his audience. “I wanted to make something geared towards the millennials, but also to bridge the gap with my obvious demographic,” he explains on the process of recording Decade of a Love King. “I notice when people come to see my live performances, it’s a very interesting audience.” As it turns out, his sultry ‘n soulful blend of boudoir-ready slow jams and romantic mid-tempo grooves often result in live audiences comprised of three generations, many of whom he regularly meets at after-show meet-n-greets. “We live in an age now where “urban AC” is playing Biggie and Common, so I definitely wanted to incorporate that” RAHEEM shares. “I approached this project how I would have approached making a mix-tape [mentally], but from an original music standpoint. So I really approached every song as if this was a mix-tape, because of the tempos and the bpms. I was the first solo R&B artist to make mix-tapes; I made that blueprint which will go down in history as part of my legacy.” With this keen insight and understanding of his appeal and his audience, Decade of a Love King’s mix tape-like collection whisks his loyal listeners off on a romantic, sometimes steamy journey which has already effectively kicked things off with the momentum of double-whammy singles “Don’t Come Easy” (a Billboard Top Ten Adult R&B song) and the sunny, easy-groovin’ “What It Feels Like.” “I feel like it’s already becoming one of my biggest records to date,” says RAHEEM of the equal parts addictive and seductive “Don’t Come Easy.” “Originally, we were going to go with ‘What It Feels Like,’ but I felt like that was what people kinda expected. Whereas ‘Don’t Come Easy’ was a little more vocally challenging, a bonafide hit and felt like right now. It was so fresh that whatever station you play it on, it’s gonna come with that pure vibe from the time you put it on until the time it ends. So now it’s time to come with the vintage, ‘What It Feels Like.’ I feel like I have something for every format with this album.” Elsewhere on Decade of a Love King, RAHEEM is doing everything from romantically wooing to turning the lights down lower and turning the heat up higher, masterfully setting the scenario for that intimate sequence of events that occur between two lovers. Carefully spanning the spectrum of the mental and physical aspects of love are soon-to-be favorites that also incorporate some of RAHEEM’s treasured influences, everything from old-school soul to now-classic 90s R&B. While the racy ‘n sparse “The Way, Act I” takes a most steamy route familiar to Prince fans while laced with an Isley Brothers-esque electric guitar and the bassy, smoothed-out “Love Sex Passion” channels modern-day Marvin Gaye, lo fi beat ballads like the hypnotic “Another Round” (fea. Chaz French), the freak-hour bump of “#BFF;” the airy, love-groovin’ “Reverse” and the scorchin’-hot peak-hour slow grind of “Temperature’s Rising, Act II” mesh current urban-R&B with RAHEEM’s most cherished 90s R&B flava. “I want this album to be like a shock to people’s system. Like when D’Angelo’s record came out in ’95, that album felt like a whole other era,” he shares. “For me, I’m a ‘90s baby’ so it was all about artists like Faith Evans, Babyface and Jodeci. So I’m stuck in that time, but not in a sense to where it feels dated. We’ve also gotta pay homage to the greats, and I feel like there’s a way to do it while showing love and respect. There’s still something very fresh. I feel like it should still be fresh and new, with a mystique to where when you hear my name there should be some excitement knowing that some real music is coming back to the forefront. And there should also be the curiosity like, ‘Damn, I wonder what he’s gonna do next?’ There’s a difference between being a carbon copy and hearing the influences. My voice is my instrument, so I take ‘em low and I take ‘em different places. It’s like getting on a rollercoaster.”
Already on board for the ride is his faithful core audience who have followed his journey and listened to his artistry develop since the Maryland native arrived on the music scene with his Jive Records debut set, The Love Experience(2005). Having already paid his dues throughout the Washington, D.C.-area club circuit, RAHEEM (the son of veteran jazz cellist Abdul Wadud)achieved a major breakthrough with his sophomore release, 2008’s Love Behind the Melody, which not only hit #1 on Billboard’s Top 10 R&B/Hip-Hop Album charts, but garnered two Grammy nominations (Best R&B Song for “Customer;” Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for “Woman”), one BET Award and two BET J Virtual Awards (“Male Artist of the Year” and “Album of the Year”). 2010’s The Love & War Masterpeace maintained the momentum, earning him yet another Grammy nomination (“Best R&B Album of the Year”) and more popular singles (i.e., “You”). As the music industry landscape went through its changes, RAHEEM took the bold step of going independent and taking the reins of full creative control starting with the 2013 release of A Place Called Love Land and seamlessly continuing with 2015’s Love, Sex & Passion, which impressively charted at #4 on Billboard’s Top R&B/Hip-Hop Album charts, #2 on Billboard’s Independent Album chart and #31 on Billboard’s Top 200 chart.
Thus far, the prospects are even brighter and bigger for Decade of a Love King, having already launched with two popular, fast-breaking singles while RAHEEM juggles other exciting projects and ventures. Always one to never forget where he came from and pay it forward, this new set features up-and-coming artists out of his native Maryland, D.C. area (newcomers Phil Ade, Chaz French, Yahzarah and Roxy Reynolds) who are signed to his DMG/ThreeSixEight Music Group. “I wanted to wave a flag for my city. This is all home-grown because every artist featured this go-round is from the D.C./Maryland area,” he explains. “I have relationships with them all and I know where they started. So I just wanted to find a cool way to mesh it, but not force it. ThreeSixEight [Music Group] is geared more towards hip-hop, so Chaz French is an artist we have signed over at Motown. Additionally, I just scored my first film and recently did a movie, so DMG (DEVAUGHN MUSIC GROUP) is more of a multi-purpose/multi-media company. We’re not just limited to making music.” Elsewhere, RAHEEM can be seen in a comedic role in the upcoming film “Lovedotcom,” as well as continuing to focus on his Love Life Foundation, whose initiatives include domestic violence, art and education, HIV/AIDS and the Text Book Scholarship for in-need students. Though he intends to transition to full-time humanitarian, he’s quick to add that it doesn’t mean he’s retiring and fully intends to somehow meld his two passions. “I’ll find cool ways to connect the dots between philanthropy and my artistry,” he affirms. “I should be able to touch down in a city, wow the crowds and then go help the ‘have-nots.’”
In the meantime, look for RAHEEM DEVAUGHN’s Decade of a Love King to continue to scintillate, titillate and seduce with his most-authentic soul stylings amidst this intoxicating, mood-altering collection of songs he’s poured his heart and soul into. “This album right here is hand-crafted to impregnate the world…bring people together. I’m here to be one of the greatest of my generation. And that’s not based on album sales and hype, or what reality show I’m on. It’s purely based on the music, based on the culture…and based on style and grace. I’m growing up not only musically, but personally. It’s kind of like the story of the phoenix rising…I’m coming out of the fire.”
Connect with Raheem Devaughn
Twitter: @Raheem_Devaughn
Instagram: @Raheem_Devaughn
Facebook: /RaheemDevaughn
image sources
- chitaliving: CHITA LIVING’s New Sofa Collection Brings Comfort and Style to Every Home
- Ella-Rosa’s-New-Single-FUN: Artwork by Hannah DeVries
- Amelie Lens: Photo Credit: Sam Neill
About the author
Things any business should know about the importance of team building
There are many different factors to consider for those who wish to manage a successful business. Quite often it can be what works best as rarely are two organisations identical. Having a strong infrastructure is certainly necessary which will include the best management of the finances, whether done by an in-house team or if bookkeeping and accountancy are outsourced. Expert departments with skills in digital marketing can give a business a cutting edge over its competitors if carried out correctly and in a cost-effective manner. Being in an ideal location can create the right impression when trying to attract customers and instill confidence in clients that the business is serious about its image and intends to take advantage of it. Then of course, its recruitment is vital as employees are the ones who can make all the difference, especially if […]
Melissa Furlotte Landscape Press Photo by Scratch Takes Productions / Editing by Sarah Thompson
Meet Melissa Furlotte
With roots in the enchanting landscapes of Gaspésie, her journey from piano lessons to creating soulful tunes is a testament to the power of following your passions. As you examine into her story, you'll find inspiration in her unique blend of fine folk music that captures the essence of her experiences. Get ready to be captivated by her artistry and the exciting projects she has in store for you! Early life and musical influences There's something magical about growing up in the picturesque region of Gaspésie. In her childhood town of Murdochville, Quebec, Melissa Furlotte found her musical footing playing piano and singing, captivated by a rich tapestry of popular, folk, country, and jazz music that shaped her early artistic identity. The landscapes and stories of her youth continue to inspire her as a songwriter today. Education and transition to […]
Kat Velasco Shares Fiery New Single “Burning Man”
Nashville-based Western pop artist Kat Velasco has released her powerful new single, “Burning Man,” a song that digs deep into themes of transformation, personal growth, and resilience. Inspired by the famed festival of the same name, Velasco’s latest track is a bold artistic evolution, fusing raw emotional energy with her signature mix of country and pop. “Burning Man” is now available on all streaming platforms. Produced in Nashville by Danny Zee and Cooper Galyon at Broken Door Studios, the song is as much a personal reflection as it is an anthem for anyone who has faced hardship and emerged stronger. The track is built around the metaphor of “burning” one’s past self to make way for new growth—a theme echoed in the radical self-expression of the Burning Man festival. Velasco opens up about the personal struggles and triumphs that inspired […]
Investment Property Insurance 101: The Coverage Options Every Real Estate Investor Should Know
Although real estate is a wise investment, it is also risky. Unexpected events can cause significant financial losses in any kind of natural disaster, accident, or tenant conflict. Investment property insurance then becomes really important. Protecting assets and long-term profitability depends on investors having appropriate insurance coverage. This article will break down the basics of investment property insurance, the different types of coverage, and why each is a must-have for new and experienced investors. Knowing these options will help you between a minor setback and a financial disaster. Why Investment Property Insurance Matters? Having investment properties is different from having a primary residence. When tenants occupy a property, the risk of damage, liability, and legal issues increases. Without enough insurance, landlords can incur big fees that eat into their profits or, in extreme cases, go bankrupt. According to an Insurance […]
Ian Abel Band’s “Stay Here” Explores Heartache and Hope
Ian Abel Band, led by internationally recognized guitarist Ian Abel, is making waves again with their newest single, "Stay Here," a bilingual Southern rock track that seamlessly weaves English and Portuguese lyrics. With a unique blend of classic rock’s raw power and Americana’s soulful storytelling, "Stay Here" captures the bittersweet emotions of love and loss. Inspired by Abel’s short but meaningful romance with a Brazilian woman, the song speaks to the longing that comes from separation. The heartfelt line, “Coitadinho de mim, afogando a saudade,” which translates to "poor me, I'm drowning in the sorrow of missing you," encapsulates the song's emotional core. This poignant reflection is matched by the song’s samba-infused melodies, giving "Stay Here" a cross-cultural flavor that sets it apart in the rock genre. Reflecting on the song’s origins, Abel shares, "It started out with a short […]
Comfort Meets Style: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Guest Room Beds
With a wide array of options ranging from sofa beds and day beds to futons and murphy beds, each style offers unique benefits tailored to your space and guest needs. In this guide, you'll discover how to blend comfort and style, ensuring your guests enjoy a restful night while complementing your home's aesthetic. Let's explore the best choices for your guest room, so you can make informed decisions that enhance the overall ambiance. Key Takeaways: Space Efficiency: Consider beds that maximize space, like Murphy Beds or Fold-Out Beds, to create a functional guest room. Versatility: Opt for options like Sofa Beds and Futons that can serve multiple purposes, enhancing both comfort and style. Comfort Levels: Prioritize comfort with choices such as Air Mattresses and Day Beds that cater to different sleeping preferences. Understanding Guest Room Needs For creating a welcoming […]
Related
Kat Velasco Shares Fiery New Single “Burning Man”
Nashville-based Western pop artist Kat Velasco has released her powerful new single, “Burning Man,” a song that digs deep into themes of transformation, personal growth, and resilience. Inspired by the famed festival of the same name, Velasco’s latest track is a bold artistic evolution, fusing raw emotional energy with her signature mix of country and pop. “Burning Man” is now available on all streaming platforms. Produced in Nashville by Danny Zee and Cooper Galyon at Broken Door Studios, the song is as much a personal reflection as it is an anthem for anyone who has faced hardship and emerged stronger. The track is built around the metaphor of “burning” one’s past self to make way for new growth—a theme echoed in the radical self-expression of the Burning Man festival. Velasco opens up about the personal struggles and triumphs that inspired […]
Ian Abel Band’s “Stay Here” Explores Heartache and Hope
Ian Abel Band, led by internationally recognized guitarist Ian Abel, is making waves again with their newest single, "Stay Here," a bilingual Southern rock track that seamlessly weaves English and Portuguese lyrics. With a unique blend of classic rock’s raw power and Americana’s soulful storytelling, "Stay Here" captures the bittersweet emotions of love and loss. Inspired by Abel’s short but meaningful romance with a Brazilian woman, the song speaks to the longing that comes from separation. The heartfelt line, “Coitadinho de mim, afogando a saudade,” which translates to "poor me, I'm drowning in the sorrow of missing you," encapsulates the song's emotional core. This poignant reflection is matched by the song’s samba-infused melodies, giving "Stay Here" a cross-cultural flavor that sets it apart in the rock genre. Reflecting on the song’s origins, Abel shares, "It started out with a short […]
Olivia Reid Shares Intimate New Single “Love Don’t Leave”
New York-based indie-folk artist Olivia Reid is back with her latest single titled “Love Don’t Leave.” The track is a heartfelt love letter that conveys a simple and reassuring message that she will always be there to support her loved one through thick and thin. Featuring warm acoustic guitar strumming and crooning soft vocals, the song creates an intimate environment that is perfect for all your sweet and calming playlists. Olivia Reid drew inspiration for this single from her travels while visiting a small village in the Polish countryside. After completing the song, Olivia Reid played it for the local neighbors around a campfire. Despite the language barrier, the song resonated with the people who expressed how much they enjoyed listening to her song. “This song is a love letter to love. Thinking about my person - I was realizing […]
Pete Birch’s Heartfelt Debut Single Door 10 Captures the Essence of Indie Dream Pop
As you listen, you'll find yourself wrapped in layers of emotion that reflect Birch's personal journey and the bittersweet moments of life. His unique blend of nostalgia and modern sound will resonate with your heart, making this track a must-listen for any music lover. So, sit back and let "Door 10" transport you to a dreamlike state, where beauty and melancholy coexist harmoniously. Transition from NYC to Massachusetts On his journey, Pete Birch made a significant transition from the vibrant music scene of New York City to a quieter, more reflective life in Massachusetts. This move allowed him to focus on his family and personal growth while embracing a new chapter as a Park Ranger. You might find this shift relatable, as it reflects the balance between pursuing passions and finding inner peace, a theme evident in his music. Impact […]
Myriad’s Veil unveils debut single The Darkness
Myriad’s Veil is a musical project formed by Temple Fang guitarist Ivy van der Veer and singer-songwriter Ismena. With their musical journey starting in marriage, they found a way to balance and unite their own separate styles to create something new. The result is a debut album which mixes Folk with Psychedelic elements This Psychedelic Folk project combines their individual styles into a refreshing sound that blends the realms of Folk and Psychedelic elements. Get ready to explore the depths of their artistry as they lead you through themes of love, happiness, and the complexities of estrangement in their upcoming album, “Pendant.” Background on the artists On a journey that began with their marriage, you'll find that the artists behind Myriad's Veil have seamlessly woven their distinct musical styles into a cohesive tapestry. Their collaborative spirit shines through in their […]
Photo Credit: Niclas Brunzell
Timeless Trio VELVET MOON Unveils ‘A Love Song’
With 15 million streams and a loyal fan base, this Stockholm trio is known for blending personal experiences with broader themes in their lyrics. Led by the talented Sandra Bjurman, their sound incorporates influences from legendary artists like Fleetwood Mac and Joni Mitchell, inviting you into a vibrant musical journey that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Overview of 'A Love Song' Release Release of 'A Love Song' marks another exciting chapter for VELVET MOON as they unveil their latest single in 2024. Following their previous captivating hits, this track premiered on Metal Magazine and continues to build anticipation for their upcoming album in 2025. As part of their evolving musical identity, 'A Love Song' encapsulates the energetic yet melancholic essence of 80s dance music, inviting you to feel the vibrant emotions woven throughout the song. The song was crafted […]
