7/2/26 O&A NYC IRIE FRIDAY: T.O.K – Footprints

Footprints is a critically acclaimed dancehall reggae song by the Jamaican group T.O.K., released on their 2005 album, Unknown Language. Produced by the legendary Don Corleone on the iconic “Drop Leaf” riddim, the track stands as one of the group’s most poignant and enduring hits.  Continue reading

7/2/26 O&A NYC SHALL WE DANCE FRIDAY: Janet Jackson – Alright

Alright is by R&B artist from her fourth studio album, Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation 1814. Written by Janet  Jackson and Jimmy Jam also Terry Lewis, he song was released on March 4, 1990, by A&M Records as the fourth single from Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation 1814. Continue reading

7/1/26 O&A NYC WALESTYLEZ HIP HOP WEDNESDAY: Jim Jones – Waiting For Response

Waiting For Response is a song Harlem Hip Hop artist Jim Jones, released as a single on June 5, 2026, and featured on his album THE LANDLORD. Produced by Piff Mann and Soon, the track delivers Jones’ signature gritty street commentary. He brought the record back into focus by releasing its official music video on June 30, 2026. Continue reading

6/30/26 O&A NYC LIVE PERFORMANCE: Ray Charles – Song For You (Live at Montreux 1997)

Ray Charles iconic performance of A Song For You live at the Montreux Jazz Festival took place on July 19, 1997. His deeply emotional, soul-stirring rendition of the Leon Russell classic served as a major highlight of his hour-long set. It showcased his timeless vocal prowess alongside his 15-piece orchestra. Continue reading

6/29/26 O&A NYC LIVE PERFORMANCE SPECIAL: Erica Campbell & Le’Andria Johnson Honor Legends With a Moving In Memoriam Performance

Erica Campbell and Le’Andria Johnson delivered one of the most powerful moments of the 2026 BET Awards with a heartfelt In Memoriam tribute honoring the artists, visionaries, and cultural icons we’ve lost.  Continue reading

  6/28/26 O&A NYC GOSPEL SUNDAY: The Clark Sisters- You Brought The Sunshine

You Brought the Sunshine is the iconic 1981 masterpiece by the legendary gospel group The Clark Sisters. Written and composed by Elbernita “Twinkie” Clark, the song made history by blending traditional gospel vocals with reggae rhythms influenced by Stevie Wonder‘s Master Blaster. It broke musical boundaries by crossing over from Sunday church services to dominate secular mainstream dance clubs like New York’s famous Paradise Garage. Continue reading

6/26/26 O&A NYC IRIE FRIDAY: Shabba Ranks ft. Maxi Priest – Housecall

Housecall also known as (Your Body Can’t Lie to Me) is a landmark crossover reggae-dancehall track released in 1991 by Jamaican artist Shabba Ranks featuring British reggae vocalist Maxi Priest Continue reading

6/26/26 O&A NYC SONG OF THE DAY: Willow – She’s My Religion (Official Visualizer)

She’s My Religion is an alternative single by American artist WILLOW (Willow Smith). Released in June 2026, it serves as the second teaser track for her eighth studio album, The Thread. Continue reading

6/26/26 O&A NYC DANCE BY WALTER RUTLEDGE: Amina – A Day In The Life Of A Dancer

By Walter Rutledge

One of the more rewarding aspects of being a cultural commentator is the opportunity to observe so much young talent. People from all walks of life converge on New York City with their dreams wrapped in the invincibility of youth. It’s amazing! It’s like seeing Geese flying south, Salmon swimming upstream and sometimes Lemming to the sea. Regardless, many have sacrificed with the hope of fulfilling their destiny, of living their dream. Amina Konaté is living her dream. Continue reading

6/25/26 O&A NYC THROWBACK THURSDAY PRIDE: Sylvester

Redo-Slyvester

Sylvester James, Jr., better known as disco and soul singer-songwriter Sylvester, was often described by the mainstream media as a drag queen, but he repeatedly rejected such a description. His flamboyant and androgynous appearance exemplified  the late 1970s. Sylvester became known in the United States under the moniker of the “Queen of Disco. Continue reading