The "Jersey Sound" - Top 100 tunes (30 Years Later and the music lives on!)

Broad & Market Street - Newark, New Jersey

by Christopher Flowers

Jersey's contribution to House Music has been obscured by time and eclipsed by its Chi-town birthplace and the mighty swagger of New York City's House music offerings.  Those of you who were too young to be clubbing or weren't clubbing in the years between 1985 - 1989 or even in the early 90s, maybe because the scene had changed from the Disco era of the late '70s and early '80s or you got caught up in whatever popular drug vice at the time or you stopped twirling on the dance floor to raise children.  It was during this period that the Chicago House/Deep House phenomenon swept the dance music world away.   Essex County was already fanatical with Disco/Club Music and Chicago House permeated every nook and cranny from Frelinghuysen Avenue to 18th Avenue to Main St.in East Orange/Orange and spread out across the county.

Newark, New Jersey's Club Zanzibar was seven years in from its grand opening in 1979, and past its early 80's glory days and worked hard to keep the level of entertainment going with its festive parties and top-notch dance music showcases. 

Club Zanzibar - Newark, New Jersey circa 1985-86

Going out dancing all night long until breakfast had not fallen out of favor with the twenty-somethings and teens who were able to get past the pay booth. The Chicago House sound was in heavy rotation at Zanzibar alongside the Italo-Disco, UK Jazz-Funk, NY "boogie-funk", DOR and 70s/early 80s R&B Disco & Disco Classics that was being played.  

However, between those Chicago House tracks, a melodic, jazzy/gospel/funky vocal-dance music style began to weave between the "jack-jack-jack-your-body", "don-da-don-da-donnie" and "la-la-la-la-like-this" output.  This music came from various Newark hoods that had at-home recording capabilities, places such as North 6th Street and Sussex Avenue to name a few.  These local Newark and Essex County-based producers started to create their own brand of electronic soulful dance music.  Borrowing elements of Chicago's House Music but injecting chords, melodies and focusing on lyrics and the vocal performance sung in the R&B/Gospel vernacular that became, with each release another new, dance music phenomenon that would, for a brief period go around the world.   

Tony Humphries

Zanzibar's resident DJ, Tony Humphries was the head-maestro-in-charge who introduced this local, Newark/Jersey homegrown dance music to his weekly audience at the club and via his WRKS-FM "98.7 KISS Mastermix" show.  Movin' Records, an East Orange record shop and record label on Central Avenue supplied Tony's arsenal of musical weapons for Zanzibar and his radio show. This triage became the machine that catapulted local NJ producers and artists to worldwide legendary status.  

These tunes, mostly vocal-oriented, gospel-influenced with R&B sensibilities and sophisticated Jazz and Funk grooves were juxtaposed with the best of what underground US House music had to offer.  The major four Jersey production camps: Blaze Productions, Smack Music, Ace Beat/B.O.P and Backroom between 1985 - 1992 were responsible for a majority of the "Jersey Sound" output that became some of House Music's influential worldwide hits.

Smack Music Productions

Other forthright producers like James Bratton (NJ), Kerri Chandler (NJ),  Jovonn (NY), Kyle “Small” Smith (NJ) Stephon Johnson (NJ), Shedrick Guy (NJ) among others also contributed heavily to defining the "Jersey Sound". 

Kerri Chandler

Jovonn

Kyle "Smalls" Smith company logo

It was common for underground club aficionados to set up their tape decks to records Tony's KISS-FM Mastermix shows before going to the club.  These tapes, precious and valuable then as they are now made their way to London and by 1987; one of the first "Jersey Sound" DJ/Artist tours was organized by London promoters.  By October 1989, the "Jersey Sound" exploded across the UK and a second London trip was organized with Tony Humphries who brought some of the patrons/employees of Zanzibar with him. 

During the 1990 New Music Seminar in New York, a special event was scheduled at Club Zanzibar to take advantage of this high profile seminar by showcasing the music, producers, and artists.  The Jersey Jams showcase sponsored by Movin' Records and Club Zanzibar was extremely successful became an unofficial point-of-interest for New Music Seminar attendees.   Later, The Jersey Sound Coalition was formulated by Movin' Records and other Jersey producers and labels to regulate marketing, advertising and producer/artist development. 

The Jersey Sound continued on after 1992 with a host of new, local producers making their mark and taking the sound to inventive heights.   It became more sophisticated and began to blend with whatever the current House sound was but always kept its early soulful integrity.  Other production camps around the US and the world would borrow from the "Jersey Sound" infusing their regional "House" music elements.    

30 years later, the "Jersey Sound" can still be heard in subtle nuances in today's Soulful House Music, a testament to the talented musicians, producers, vocalists who for a moment topped the House Music and Pop charts worldwide and put a "bowtie" on the early, track-based "jacking" Chicago House sound.  Here are the Top 100 of the dopest "Jersey Sound" tunes that are forever cemented in House Music History. 

TOP 100 "JERSEY SOUND" HOUSE MUSIC CLASSICS

1. Let The Rain Come Down - Intense - Movin' Records -1989

2. Respect - Adeva - Chrysalis/Cooltempo -1989

3. Make My Body Rock - Jomanda - BigBeat -1988

4. In And Out Of My Life - Adeva - Easy Street –1988

5. Reachin' - Phase II - Movin' Records - 1989

6. Love So Special - Ceybil - Atlantic - 1990
(Ceybil is from NYC and the producers of the song as well.  The producers were hanging heavily at Club Zanzibar (1989-90) and brought the demo to Tony Humphries and the rest is history.  She even said that she's a part of the "Jersey Sound").

7. Warning – Adeva – Cooltempo (UK) - 1989

8. Someday – Ce Ce Rogers – Atlantic – 1987 

    (This is the point where Chicago & Jersey connect)

9. Follow Me - Aly-Us – Strictly Rhythm -1992

10. Little Girl – Viola – Nervous - 2001

11. You Are My Friend – Kenny & Friends – Cover -1995

12. Turn And Run Away – Jovonn – Warner Bros. - 1989

13.When Can Our Love Begin – Kimara Lovelace – King St. -1998
(Kimara Lovelace is from NJ, not too sure where Roland Clark, the songwriter, and producer of the song is from.  Although Timmy Regisford's mix made this song legend, it had all the elements of a "Jersey Sound" styled House tune of the late 80's and early 90's.  Not to mention that it was a HUGE hit in New Jersey. Hence, it is included here). 

14. My, My Lover - Dee Dee Brave - Movin' Records - 1990

15. Feel Like Singin' - Sandy B. - Nervous – 1992

16. One Man – Chanelle – Profile - 1988

17. Deeper (KAQZ 6:23) – Susan Clark – 111 East – 1992

18. Baby Love – Cassio – Street Style - 1992

19. Respect – Michelle Ayers – Emotive – 1992

20. Don’t You Want My Love – Jomanda – Big Beat - 1989

21. Musical Freedom (Free At Last) – Adeva/Carmen Brown – Cooltempo (UK) - 1989

22. I Don’t Need Your Love – JoAnn Jones – Champion – 1989

23. I’m Attracted To You  (Demo Version) – Ann Robinson – (Acetate) – 1990

24. Not Gonna Do It – Vicki Martin – Movin’ – 1988

25. I Got That Feelin’ – Dreamer G. – Big Beat – 1992

26. I Need Somebody - Keshia Jenkins - Profile – 1987

27. Drink On Me - Teule - Profile – 1990

28. Everybody Be Somebody – Ruffneck feat. Yavahn – MAW - 1995

29. SuperLover – Three Generations ft. Chevell – Atlantic - 1990

30. I Shall Not Be Moved – Underground Ministries feat. Kenny Bobien – Flatline - 1999

31. Never Thought I’d See You Again – Cassio- Street Style - 1993

32. Got A Love For You – Jomanda – Big Beat - 1991

33. Why We Sing – Kenny Bobien And Friends – Equip - 1997

34. Always There - Charvoni - Capitol - 1989

35. Can't Win For Losin' - Blaze - Quark – 1987

36. Mr. Right – Redd – 111 East - 1992

37. Don't You Want My Love - Jomanda - Big Beat – 1988

38. Falling In Love - Sybil - Next Plateau - 1986

39. I See You - Intense - AceBeat - 1991

40. Let's Get Jazzy (Dope Dub Mix) –  Flightt – TMT - 1987

41. No Time For Crying – Spring – Black Rain – 1992

42. Trouble – Kim Beacham – 111 East  - 1992

43. Just Started - Lachandra - Garage Trax/Movin' Records - 1989

44.  If You Should Need A Friend - Blaze - Quark – 1987

45. Lock It Up – The CRJ Project – Ace Beat - 1991

46. Call Him Up – The Voices Of 6^th Ave – AceBeat – 1992

47. Alright (Zanzibar Mix) – Urban Soul – Polar – 1990

48. Keep On Pumpin' It Up (Zanzibar Mix) - D'borah - SBK - 1990

49. It's Not Over (Demo Version) - Hunter Hayes - (acetate) -1990

50. Problem#13 (Baseball Bat) - Johnny Dangerous – Hourglass - 1992

51. Are You Faithful - Valerie Ingram - Movin' - 1989

52. Brighter Days – Big Moses & Kenny Bobien – King St. - 1995

53. Say You’re Gonna Stay  (Original Mix) – Darryl D’ Bonneau – K.O.L.A. – 1993

54.  I Just Can’t Quit Lovin’ You – Charvoni – AceBeat - 1987

55. Come Into My Heart – Kenya Travitt – Big Beat - 1989

56. Join Hands – Taravhonty – Big Beat - 1987

57. I’m Glad You Came To Me – Bas Noir – Nu Groove - 1989

60. Think – Franda Robertson – MicMac – 1988

61. Pump Up The Music (Girly Girl Mix) – Gordon Nelson Jr. – Spin City - 1989

62. You're No Good For Me - Kelly Charles - Next Plateau – 1987

63. Unity – On Top – BigBeat - 1989

64. Someone To Love Me (Demo Version) - Jomanda – (Acetate) 1990

65. Victim (Zanzibar Mix) – Park Avenue – Attitude - 1991

66. It Works For Me – Saybrynaah Pope – King St - 1994

67. Sweet Chariot (Soul Creation Original Mix) – Club Artists United – Le Millennium - 1997

68. Come On Move With The Beat – B.O.P – Big Beat – 1991

69. I Thank You – Adeva – Cooltempo – 1989

70. My Love Is Magic – Bas Noir – Nu Groove - 1988

71. Can’t Get Over It – Dee Dee Brave – Champion - 1991

72. Off The Wall - Paul Scott - Acebeat - 1985-86

73. She’s Crazy – Grandpa – Movin’ - 1992

74. Luv 4 2 – Michael Watford – EastWest - 1992

75. 4 Da Love Of U – Alex & Rai – Smack – 1994

76. Fantasy – Cassio feat. Sajadah – Shelter - 1994

77. How Hard I Search (Vocal Mix) – Gena Bess – KULT - 1994

78. Good Time (Fair Jack Version) – Johnny Dangerous feat. Jazmina/Pzaz – KULT - 1992

79. Holdin’ On – Urban Renewal Feat. Joi Cardwell & Jay Mac – Freetown - 1994

80. Back To Zanzibar – LY – Nite Grooves - 1994

81. Reach Out For Me – Karen Pollard – Choice - 1995

82. My Beat (Original Mix) – Blaze – Slip ‘n’ Slide - 1994

83. Let Us All Be Friends (Original Version Mix) – Mama’s Children ft. Lee Truesdale – Colonel - 1996

84. More Than Anything – Darryl D’ Bonneau – New Generation - 1992

85. Stand Up – B.O.P. featuring Kenny Bobien – Shelter – 1996

86. I Love You (Forever) – Calvin Rock – Grassroots - 1994

87. No More Heartache (Demo Version) – Charvoni - (Acetate) - 1990

88. Choose Me (Joey Negro Remix) – Cookie – Republic - 1990

89. Lift Up Your Hands – Xodus feat. Dawn Tallman – Jellybean - 1996

90. Our Love (It’s Over) – Dee Holloway – Select – 1989

91. Take A Stand (For Love) – Gerideau – Music Station – 1994

92. Can’t Treat Me This Way – Intense – AceBeat – 1989

93. Just Us – Joey Washington ft. The Mens Club – Strictly Rhythm - 1993

94. We Can Make It - Bonnie Byrd - Wadworth - 1988

95. I’ll Give It To You – Jomanda – Quark – 1988

96. Thank You – Karen Anderson – NottUs – 1993

97. Let Me Show You – Tawanna Curry – Republic – 1989

98. Definition Of A Track - Backroom Productions – 1988

99. This Love Will Grow – T. Solomon – Downtown 161 – 1993

100. Don’t Turn Your Love – Park Avenue – Movin’ Records - 1987

Compiled by the FIDA/ThinkSoul Committee

(If there are any true "Jersey Sound" House tunes that should have made the list, let us know in the comment section below.  Thanks!)

* (If anyone has something to say or have an issue with this article or this list, the comment section where we can respond to whatever you may have to say is here, not on facebook.)

Whatcha Been Listenin' 2 FIDA?

What have you been listening to lately?  What’s on rotation on your iPod, on your mobile?  If you have turntables, what have you been spinnin’?  What are those latest downloads that you've been bumpin'?   We reached out to our FIDA community to inquire about what they’ve been listening to and dancing to.  What songs they have given top priority at the moment.  Here’s what a few of them sent to us.  Check it out!

DVS Imaad

1. Still I Rise (Mark Francis Remix) – Yolanda Adams

2. Resting Place (Remix) – DJ Spen Presents Aaron Gray & Mark Francis

3. Heaven On Earth – Gee

4. The Thing – (TBD)

5. Ba Dop – Xteisoul

Sweeti

1. Whatever Lola Wants -Sarah Vaughan 

2. Send In The Clowns - Sarah Vaughan

3. St. James Infirmary Blues - Earl Hines

4. Pure Water -Migos

5. Shulle aBoo – Sarah Vaughan

Manani Babatu

1. Slavery Days - Claudia Acuna & 3 Generations Walking

2. Lovely One - Blaze & James Toney Jr. Project

3. What About The Children - Marvin Gaye

4. Fencewalk - Mandrill

5. Rolling Down A Mountainside - Main Ingredient

DJ Fire/Frank Cartagena

1. Feel What You Want (Our Tribe Vocal Mix) – Kristine W.

2. La Isla De Bes – Lexa Hill

3. Dimelo (Original Mix) David Tory & Markem ft. El Bori Miami

4. Fire (Oja Soulman Remix) – DJ Satelite feat. Jackie Queens

5. La Salsa – Mijangos

DJ David Shell

1. Heaven (Louie Vega Remix/Groove Odyssey) – Pauline Henry

2. Trinidadian Deep – Native Culture

3. Paso Doble – Djadalo

4. Toshi (Timmy Regisford) – Singa Wango

5. Slave Ship Chant – West Tribe

Kim Faison

1. Open Up Your Mind – Elle

2. Ngawe (At Jazz Love Soul Remix)

3. Get Your Body Down To The Ground – David Bailey feat. Shezar

4. Work It Out – Bakai/Lady Alma

5. Feels Like Home – Mark de Clive Lowe feat. Ovasoul 7

DJ Jay Guillaume

1. Heartbeat – David Morales feat. Tiger Wilson

2. Thank You – True Solace

3. Pitch Black City Reunion – Moodymann

4. God Is Love – Common Feat. Leon Bridges and Jonathan McReynolds

5. All Loved Out (The Love Serenade Mix) – Ten City

FIDA Bangs The Drum with DJ/Remixer/Producer-Jihad Muhammad!!

by Christopher Flowers

Relevancy will dictate longevity and success.  One's ability to be inventive and remain current as a DJ post millennium in the soulful House Music world is truly a masterful feat.  Technological advances in professional DJ equipage has made it easier for the novice (with the help of social media) to become a "D.J."   Once upon a time, Disco and Club Music ruled the dance floor, nightclubs were in abundance and vinyl was the main tool for a DJ.   What seems to be missing in this age from the DJ persona is the ability to translate that feeling of "playing vinyl" through digital means.  Digital dexterity via the style of vinyl manipulation (blending, overlaying, melody mixing, etc.), the art of programming and most importantly sociability will determine a DJ's popularity, respect, love and admiration.

Positioned in the upper echelons of the soulful dance music arena, Newark, NJ native DJ/Remixer/Producer Jihad Muhammad not only possesses each of those aforementioned DJ attributes, he has championed the art of DJing and programming that soar above and beyond the standard.   He's acquired the love, respect, admiration and loyalty of the House Music community reserved for deities.   His bid for legendary status has been accepted and no doubt will be approved very soon.  Out from among the second wave of pioneering NYC/NJ metropolitan DJ’s who held the torch in Newark’s underground club scene (Tony Humphries, Camacho, Naeem Johnson, Timmy Regisford, Merlin Bobb), Jihad quickly became Essex County’s new HOT, young DJ in the early 90’s.   His charm, social graces and good looks are rare pluses; however, it is his “butter smooth”, seamless mixing, creative programming that can drive a crowd into a frenzy or crafting moods that hypnotizes the listener/dancer.   

Jihad has been a faithful advocate of Club music, House Music, music in general, heralded here in New Jersey and a favorite in choice venues nationally and global House Music nightclubs, festivals and events.  He is DJ royalty and holds court each month at the Cricket Club in Irvington, NJ with his slamming Bang The Drum party.  Don’t be swayed by that title, “Bang The Drum” is more than “drumming”, it’s an eclectic, potpourri of sounds within the current House music paradigm.   It’s jazzy, sweet and deep, rough-hewn and minimal, ever so soulful and can be classic when the mood is right.   Jihad has come a long way from being a "clubhead" dancer rockin’ the “Stomp” shoes, Girbaud baggy pants, flowing, over-sized buttoned down shirts, afrocentric beads and hi-top fade walking over to get water (not in plastic bottles at this time) from the gigantic plastic water bowl I was serving cups of water from as one of my duties as concessionaire at Club Zanzibar in the late 80's.  I didn’t know him then (I met Jihad right after Tony Humphries left Zanzibar as its weekly resident DJ)  but he stood out from among the rest of the hi-top fade kids bustin’ moves on the dance floor.  Watching his ascendancy throughout the years to become a leader in today’s House music game is celebratory to say the least.  I got a chance to chat with this amazing brother whose fans can’t seem to get enough of.    

Christopher Flowers - When you asked me when you will be invited to another FIDA event, in that instance, I wanted you to play rather than be a spectator. Now, that you’ve slammed FIDA with your fabulous set, what are some of your take aways?  

Jihad Muhammad - I had such a great time.  I haven’t played a set like that in the open for years, not since the last time I was in Japan.    I was just grateful that everyone there was open.   I’m sure there may have been some that thought I couldn’t handle it but they don’t really know that side of me musically.   I hope everyone enjoyed the presentation.

CF - Some of the FIDA members truly believed that I gave you a playlist of FIDA favs.  I didn’t.  All I said was that  you can go from tempo to tempo and play lots of vocals.   How did you know to play tunes like Kano’s – “Can’t Hold Back (Your Love)”, “Hi-Ya” by the Clark Sisters and other FIDA safeties?

JM - (Lol!) I played what I wanted basically.   It's  been years since I came to a FIDA party,  but my history with you, going back to the 80’s, allowed me to tap into some jams I haven’t played in a while.  Remember, some of the FIDA members that are there now that weren't there when you and I first started doing parties together, so they may not know our history.

CF - This is true.  I would say the so-called "movers & shakers" in Jersey's scene today wouldn't know that either.   It was really, really underground.  There was no social media back then.  The technology we have now was in its infancy.  It was only word-of-mouth and flyers.   You’ve had an illustrious career as one of the premier DJ’s coming out of NJ.   What do you think about when looking back to where you were in the early part of your career to now?

JM - I feel that the key to my growth has been consistency.  I’m always trying to keep myself current with the music and with the scene.  I am humbled and feel quite blessed to be where I am now. It’s been a long journey from listening to Timmy's (Regisford) and Tony's (Humphries) radio mixshows to having shared the stage with them at some point.

CF - Do you still get the same feeling getting behind the decks as you did when you first started? 

JM - Yes I do.  You never really lose that feeling.  With certain gigs, nervousness sets in at times like it did when I first started playing in front of crowds, but now I know how not to let it show (Lol!).

CF - What do you attest to your longevity? 

JM - Going back to your previous question, it has been consistency. I’m always trying to evolve musically.  I’m always trying to forge relationships with my peers and with those who support me.

CF - Your technical skill is masterful.  It’s definitely a skill from the school of those iconic, experienced and innovative pioneer Disco/Dance DJ’s.  Who influenced your style and technique? 

JM - Two men….Timmy Regisford and Tony Humphries.

CF - I kinda figured that, since you mentioned that you were listening to their radio mixshows.

JM -  Yes. Tony’s blending skills were impeccable. The first time I heard him I knew I always wanted to mix like he did.   He always knew how to present a record to make you like it.   Timmy’s style to me was more raw and gritty.  I used to be in the booth while he played at Club Shelter (NYC) and I was always amazed at how he pulled certain mixes off.

CF - Travelling.  You’ve been just about everywhere around the globe.   What was it like when you first played internationally?  How does that experience compare to today when you play in other countries? 

JM - My first trip abroad was to Naples, Italy in 1996...thanks to DJ Camacho for that.   It was an eye opener in terms of what kind of music I could play that I couldn’t get away with here in the states.   Even now, I feel like there are certain jams that I could rock in Europe that I may not get away with here.  I think that you're allowed to push past certain boundaries overseas than when you play here in the states.  Well, at least when you're playing Soulful House music.  There’s more of an open acceptance there than it is here.

CF - You’ve did just about every Soulful House party/club/event in the NJ/NYC area. What are some of the ones that stand out for you? 

JM - FIDA stands out as one of my more recent gigs (This interview was done a few weeks after the FIDA party in April 2019. He's done many events since then). The times I have done the major outdoor House events like Lincoln Park and Warinanco Park.   I must mention my Bang The Drum Parties are always the ones I look forward to doing.   My b’day party with Louie Vega was definitely one for the books.   The Shelter Anniversaries are always dope and also big props to Louie Vega’s Expansion parties as well.

CF - Ahhhh yes...Bang The Drum (BTD)!   Yes, your B-Day party  last December at (BTD) was so packed no one could move!  How does having a very popular event in these “hit or miss” times make you feel? 

JM - Makes me feel great!!!!!!   We had Louie Vega, who’s a King of House and it was also a themed event.   I only wish that the scene can be like that every night, but in these days and times you have to be way more creative to have packed nights like that.

CF - Absolutely!  That's an independent topic for another interview!  So, what does the future hold for Bang The Drum (BTD)? Have you had the 10 year anniversary party yet?   If not, what do you have planned for that milestone event? 

JM - Our 10 Year mark has passed this year.

CF - Oh wow. That's awesome.

JM - But I haven’t had a 10 year event as of yet. Maybe I’ll do it in November but I really haven’t thought about doing anything special as of yet.

CF - You've thrown a few legendary events in the past as well and know all the challenges that come with it.  Personally, I loved Metro Galaxy (and the Spot!) tell me how did your Metro Galaxy party come about? 

JM - Metro started after I left Club Eclipse (Irvington, NJ).  I wanted to do a party with more current music since at the time everyone was on the classic tip.  We started right after 9/11 and ran for about a year.  It was a very fun time musically and right when we were starting to build it up we closed.  The New York crew always called Metro “ The Shelter Warmup “ party.

CF - I attended your Bang The Drum (BTD) party at the Cricket Club in Irvington (NJ) late Summer/Fall of 2018.  Your set was more diverse than I had expected (from all the chatter from various people, I was expecting all Afro Tech).  Are you able to deviate from that sound more now than before? 

JM - I wonder what that chatter was about? (Lol) You know me, I’ve always been diverse. 

CF -  Personally, I like your jazzy, eclectic Vocal House and those obscure joints as well as the 4/4 jazzy track-oriented tunes and antiques.  But I know that you have an Afro-Tech, Afro-Electro side as well.

JM - I have many sides to myself when it comes to music.  There are times when feel like I want to play this and there are other times when I want to be like that.  When I stared (BTD) it was "a themed party" focused more on the Afro House style of music.   I was recently told that if it wasn’t for me playing Afro House in Jersey that others DJ’s (locally and abroad) wouldn’t have felt comfortable at all playing it when invited to play. 

CF - But it seems that sound has supplanted everything that came before it and is heralded as the new Soulful House sound of today.  What is your contribution to Afro-House/Tech?   How did this current generation of “Soulful” House heads become so entranced with Afro House/Tech to point of excluding of everything else that’s danceable and yet soulful? 

JM -  Afro House or African influenced music  has always been around. For us, at one point, it wasn’t Black Coffee but it was Fela and Tony Allen.  As far as my productions, I don’t really call it Afro House.  I feel that I incorporate a little bit of Afro and Soulful styles in my music.   In my opinion, I will say that Afro House as a genre has pushed itself ahead of Soulful House in the NYC/NJ area.  There hasn’t been too many outstanding soulful records made and the ones that are dope get played over and over again.   I will say that the ones that are dope are being produced by international producers.  Also, Louie Vega has been making some of the hottest soulful gems as of late.  Mark Francis, DJ Beloved, Sean Ali, Doug Gomez, Sheree Hicks and DJ Spen to name a few have been on my Soulful Radar as well.

CF - Interesting.

JM - There’s always a method to my madness.   Now feel like I don’t have to focus on it too much because it has become a norm for any DJ, from the bar scene to the underground scene to play some form of Afro House.   I try not to make (BTD) that much different from the 1st Saturday’s party that I also do at Cricket Club.  I go in now and just play what I want.

CF - Do you think it’s good for an audience to be programmed into one type of groove or sound? 

JM - Not at all.  Music comes in various forms and I think it’s our job as DJ’s to to show the audience what’s really going on in the world.  What I do think is that today’s audience isn’t as musically educated as yesterday’s audience was.  Some only want to hear one genre, they don’t want to hear classic, etc.  They just don’t come open for hearing just good music whether it’s old or new. Also, comparisons are made about who plays better than who has diluted the scene to some degree.

CF - That's another topic we can go on and on about.  This current clique of Househeads like what they like and are into that one groove because it gets them off.  It's the sound that's being made and played.  Diversity doesn't fit in that model.  What is it about music and DJing in that you made a name for yourself and achieved notoriety and respect relegated to a choice few? 

JM - Just being on the scene and keeping myself up to par with music. There was a time when I passed out tapes/CD’s to everyone that would take them.   I spent more than enough money buying music, doing parties just to get my name out there.  When you do something you love folks will take notice at some point.  I’m grateful that the ones I grew up listening to on the radio took notice and that I have had a chance to share the same stage with them.

CF - What is your definition of “underground”  in the context of dance music culture?  Do you think it has the same meaning today as it did in the 80’s & early 90’s? 

JM - Yes.  I think Underground is still a relevant term.  Music that isn’t the norm, the ones you won’t hear anywhere else but in the clubs are the Underground jams. Once the Underground DJ’s make a song hot then the bar scene jumps on it and it isn’t as "underground" as it was before.

CF - You have a host of remixes and productions under your belt.   Name a few that we may not know that you did? 

JM - Wow…. I think the ones I did are all on traxsource.com.  I don’t really ghost produce so I think most may know the ones that I have already done.

CF - Do you prefer DJing or music production or both?  

JM - I prefer Djing.  Production is fun at times but when you find yourself doing both at the same time you lose something in either one or the other.   I've always enjoyed DJing from day one so it’s really my first love.

CF - What artists or producers that you worked with that gave you that “Wow” factor? 

JM - I did a remix for Hill St. Soul called" New Day" on Brian Power’s Label in The UK.  I always loved her music so when was asked I hopped on it quick.  When I did the remix for Louie’s jam “Live Your Life” that was dope.   Also, I love working with Sheree Hicks who, in my opinion, is one of the most underrated singers in the scene.

CF - Have you expanded your Movement Soul record label to include any subsidiaries or is it still just the one?   What have you released to date? 

JM - I haven’t expanded it. It’s still Movement Soul and we are committed to putting out whatever we want.   We have merged with Quantize Records and Milk & 2Sugars (M&2S) so they do our distribution now.   I just finished a mixed compilation for Quantize with songs from both  Movement Soul and Quantize to be released soon.

CF - What do you listen to when you are just chillin’ by yourself? 

JM - Jazz 88 and WCBS are my go to radio stations when I’m chillin’.

CF - Do feel you’re legendary?  Or have yet to be? 

JM - Seems like that’s a term used for everybody these days.  I’m just a messenger delivering happiness to folks through the art of music.

CF - What are your plans for 2020? 

JM - To continue to put out good music, do good parties and make folks happy by the will of God.

Jihad Muhammad Top Ten Current House Joints

1. Prayer For You (Louie Vega Mix) - Jasper Street Company 
2. Zimo (Jihad Muhammad’s Bang The Drum Mix) - Unsaid  
3. Like A Feather - Steal Vybe
4. Closer - DJ Spinna & Nathan Adams
5.  Hey Now - Saint Evo
6. Pocket - Coflo
7. Ritmo Sagrado - Doug Gomez & Conway Casey
8. No Limits - Danism
9. G.I.R.L. - Vick Lavender
10.  I Know Someone (Frankie Feliciano Mix) - Mike City

Jihad Top Ten Favorite Antiques

1. Are You Going With Me - Pat Methany 
2. Whole Lotta Love - Massimo Barsotti
3. E2-E4 - Manuel Gottsching
4. Live In Me - Chaka Khan 
5. Strawberry Letter 23 - Brothers Johnson
6. Heaven - Bebe & Cece Winans
7. Take A Chance - Pleasure
8. Can’t Nobody Love Me (Like You Do) - General Johnson
9. Do It To The Music - Raw Silk
10.  A Little Bit Of Jazz - Nick Straker Band

The FIDA 45rpm "Get Down Series (pt. 4) Playlist - Sunday 5/26/19

THE FIDA 45rpm Get Down (pt. 4) Series Playlist – Jonesy & Mr. Flowerz – Sunday 5/26/2019

1. Love And Happiness – Earnest Jackson

2. After Hours – J.R. Bailey

3. Breezin’ – George Benson

4. Afrodesia – Lonnie Smith

5. A Chance For Peace – Lonnie Liston Smith

6. Everything Is Beautiful To Me – Jimmy Castor Bunch

7. Emorio – Sergio Mendes

8. I’ll Play The Fool – Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band

9. Let Me Go Love – Nicolette Larson

10. Something – The Beatles

11. Emotion – Merry Clayton

12. Nothing’s Gonna Change Me – Dynamic Superiors

13. Eno Esta – Bobbi Humphrey

14. Woman Don’t Want To Love Me – Chicago

15. Michael’s Theme – El Chican0

16. Real People – Chic

17. Don’t Say Nothin’ Bad (About My Baby) – The Cookies

18. Kofijahm – Mandrill

19. Fool’s Paradise – The Sylvers

20. Groove On – Willie “Beaver” Hale

21. Get You Somebody New – LaBelle

22. Chamelon – Herbie Hancock

23. As – Jean-Luc Ponty

24. Street Corner – Ashford & Simpson

25. Brother’s Gonna Work It Out – Willie Hutch

26. Touch And Go – Ecstasy, Passion & Pain

27. Stick Up – Honey Cone

28. Get Up Feel Like A Sex Machine – James Brown

29. Scorpio – Dennis Coffey

30. Oooh What A Life – Gibson Brothers

31. Give It On Up (If You Want To) – Mtume

32. Boogie To The Top – Idris Muhammad

33. Sweet Drums – Cerrone

34. Music Is My Way Of Life – Patti LaBelle

35. Jump Back – Dhar Braxton

36. I Specialize In Love – Sharon Brown

37. Papillon – Chaka Khan

38. You Are My Heaven – Roberta Flack

39. Sugar Free – Juicy

40. (You’re  My) Shining Star – Curtis Hairston

41. There’s Nothing Like This – Omar

42. Fantasy – Earth, Wind & Fire

43. Heaven Of My Life – Change

44. Don’t Let It Show On Your Face – Adeva

45. Reachin’ – Phase II

46. Rich In Paradise – F.P.I. Project

47. The Promised Land – Joe Smooth

48. Reaching For The World – Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes

49. Say You Will – Eddie Henderson

50. Let The Music Play – Charles Earland

51. Expansion – Lonnie Liston Smith

52. Any Love – Rufus & Chaka

53. Give Me Love – Cerrone

54. Love Hangover – 5^th Dimension

55. Where Did All The Lovin’ Go – Teddy Pendergrass

56. One Day Of Peace – Love Committee

57. To Each His Own – Faith, Hope & Charity

58. Darlin’ Darlin’ Baby – O’Jays

59. Dare Me – Pointer Sisters

60. Are You For Real – Deodato

61. Spanish Fly – Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam

62. Keep On Singing – Kenny Burke

63. I Want You – Marvin Gaye

64. May My Love Be With You – Phreek

65. Hold Me Tighter In The Rain – Billy Griffin

66. Loving You – Donald Byrd

67. Can You Handle It –Sharon Redd

68. Free Love – Jean Carn

69. Thighs High – Tom Browne

70. Dreams A Dream – Soul II Soul

71. Optimistic – Sounds Of Blackness

72. Lean On Me (acapella) – James Ingram

73. Runnin’ – Jovonn

74. How Soon We Forget – Colonel Abrams

75. Can’t Take It – Keith Thompson

76. I Like You – Phyllis Nelson

77. Work That Body – Taana Gardner

78. Don’t Go Lose It Baby – Hugh Masekela

79. Don’t Turn Your Back On Me – Frontline Orchestra

80. Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick – Ian Dury & the Blockheads

81. Why You Wanna Treat Me So Bad – Prince

82. Stay – Rufus

83. Love, Love, Love – Donny Hathaway

84. Feel Like Makin’ Love – Roberta Flack

85. Mind Blowing Decisions – Heatwave

86. Under Your Spell – Phyllis Hyman

87. Tell Me – Sylvester

88. The Music’s Got Me – Visual

89. You Got Me Running – Lenny Williams

90. Why Leave Us Alone – Five Special

91. You’re In My System – The System

92. Last Night A DJ Saved My Life – InDeep

93. Bad Habits – Jenny Burton

94. All I Do –Stevie Wonder

95. Way Back When – Brenda Russell

96. Love Don’t Always Make It Right – Ashford & Simpson

97. Let’s Groove (part 1 & 2) – Archie Bell & the Drells

98. Love Injection – Trussel

99. Razzamatazz – Quincy Jones ft. Patti Austin

100. Nights Feel Like Gettin’ Down – Billy Ocean

101. Summer Madness – Kool & the Gang

102. Sexy Mama – The Moments

103. For The Love Of You – The Isley Brothers

104. Angel Of The Night – Angie Bofill

105. Steal Your Heart – Slave

106. Nobody Can Be You – Steve Arrington

107. Such A Feeling – Aurra

108. Too High –

109. Is This The Best – L.A. Boppers

110. Look Me Up – Blue Magic

111. I Need You Now – Sinnamon

112. Forever Came Today – Jackson Five

113. Whatever Makes You Happy – Ten City

114. Love Can’t Turn Around (Dub) – Farley “Jackmaster” Funk & Jessie Saunders

115. Good Life – Inner City

116. Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This) –Eurythmics

117. Botich – Yello

118. Starchild – Level 42

119. Ride Like The Wind – Christopher Cross

120. They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y.) – Pete Rock & C.L.Smooth

121. Draggin’ My Heels – The Hollies

122. Can’t Hold Back – Kano

123. Music - Omar