As many of you probably know, one of the two book projects I’m currently working on is an encyclopedia of soul, rap and dance music in the ’80s. While I’m loath to discuss my progress on this project with anyone but my close friends/collaborators, I remain solidly confident that work on the book will be done by the end of 2015, with a publish date (whether self-published or not) by the middle of 2016 (hopefully in time for Black Music Month).
I have a Tumblr page devoted specifically to the project, which hasn’t been updated in a month and a half or so thanks to a combination of being really busy and having way too many outlets. I haven’t abandoned it, though. So keep an eye.
Anyway, one idea I’ve had for a while that I’m only now bringing to fruition is putting together themed playlists that somehow tie back around to the book. I actually created this particular playlist a month or so ago in a fit of inspiration. There’s no way I was going to not put together a Jacksons playlist. I didn’t want to lean too heavily on either Michael or Janet, nor did I want to put together a complete playlist of songs you’ve heard 6 million times. So I tried to toss in a couple of great deep cuts, some productions, and contributions from other brothers and sisters. I really wish there was a way I could mix all of these together without worrying about getting sued/having my mix get thrown off the internet, but I guess Spotify will do in a pinch.
Look for these every couple weeks or so (or more or less frequently, depending on inspiration). Enjoy!