Daddy B. Nice's

Corner & Top 10

Concert Calendar
& Mailbag

Comprehensive Index

New Album Reviews

Featured Artists

Buy Music

Index to Artist Guides

Top 100 Charts

The Original Chart (1990-2010)

21st Century Chart (2000-2020)

The New Generation Chart (2010-2030)

Best of Pages

About the Music

About Us
Contact Us
Links
Home

Daddy B. Nice's

Corner 2025

July 7, 2025:

TOP 40 SOUTHERN SOUL SINGLES: JULY

An expanded list of the songs vying for "Top Ten Singles" in JULY 2025.

1. "Toe Up"---Myia B feat. Charmeka Joquelle
2. "Dangerous / Wetter"---Shawn Walka Mash-Up feat. Morgan Wallen, Erika Shevon & Twista
3. "285"---Poka Jones
4. "Got My Money Right"---Fat Daddy
5. "Love Me For Real"---Breeze MrDo2Much
6. "Summertime Down South (Southern Soul Slide)"---Ny'Aira
7. "Country Girl Love"---J.L. Thompson feat. B.J. Moodswing
8. "Boots On The Ground (Poppinz Mix)"---803Fresh
9. "Trailride 101"---Jay Morris
10. "Tweaker Shuffle"---King Willonius

11. "Work Dat Fan"---Stacii Adams
12. "Mr. Jody"---Uncle Willie
13. "Pay Like She Weigh"---M. Cally
14. "Country Rideout"---DJ Trans feat. Dr. Dolla
15. "Real Good Time"---King George
16. "Body Rock"---803 Party
17. "Southern Soul Train"---Charisse Mackey feat. Ashley Ave
18. "Wave That Bandana"---Wolfman Delliyo feat. Chavonna Adams
19. "Outside Tonight"---Big Chad Reed
20. "Down In Tha Country"---Joe Black Johnson

21. "Sneaky Link"---LaMorris Williams
22. "Real Woman"---Charmeka Menefee feat. West Love
23. "What You See"---Jeter Jones feat. Deshay
24. "Feelin' Alright"---Marcellus The Singer
25. "Get Drunk And Go Home"---Mr. Willy
26. "Trail Ride'n Woman"---X-Man Parker
27. "Hoedown"---Miss Lady Blues
28. "You Ain't Country Enough"---Mr. Sam
29. "After Party"---Sunshine The Singer feat. Fat Daddy
30. "Trail Scoot"---Ky Soul

31. "Shake It For The Country"---Avail Hollywood
32. "Southern Night Southern Love"---Ny’Aira
33. "Mississippi Boy 2025"---Charles Wilson
34. "Ain't Going"---Tia Catillia
35. "Push It"---Gentry-Jones feat. A.G. Hammond
36. "Should've Pulled Out"---L.J. Echols
37. "Stepping Out"---Jaye Hammer
38. "Lights On Lights Off"---Kevin Khule Harris
39. "Put It In Motion"---Ghetto Cowboy
40. "Let Me Love You"---Harrison Hollingquest feat. Drea'C

************

Send product to:
SouthernSoulRnB.com
P.O. Box 19574
Boulder, Colorado 80308
Or e-Mail:
daddybnice@southernsoulrnb.com
*************

June 22, 2025:

Daddy B. Nice's

News & Notes:

803Fresh News

It's official. After reigning at #1 on the Billboard R&B Digital Song Sales chart for eight weeks beginning April 26, 2025, "Boots On the Ground" reached #1 on the Billboard Adult R&B Airplay Chart on June 4, 2025. It's the first southern soul song to have done so, though it's difficult to compare because "Billboard" has changed its chart formats over the years. Meanwhile, "Boots" continued to rise (#34 at writing) on the Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart.

803Fresh is the performing name of Douglas Furtick. The viral line dance was created by Tre Little. The impromptu dances have become staples of weddings, birthday celebrations and graduations. 803Fresh performed the song & dance at half-time of one of the NBA Play-Offs between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers this past week. The song's popularity is further evidenced by the state of South Carolina officially designating May 1st as "Boots on the Ground Day" to honor the artist's success.

Your Daddy B. Nice had been trying to think of a song from the past that compares musically with "Boots On The Ground"---not all that common a style, really---a tune that shares a similar affinity with dancing. Then, the other day while driving and listening to an oldies station, I heard it. Rufus Thomas's "Walking The Dog" from 1963.

Listen to Rufus Thomas singing "Walking The Dog" on YouTube.

The new 803Fresh Boots On The Ground Album has been released in CD format, available in limited quantities through ebay. In addition to "Boots On The Ground," the collection includes pre-"Boots" material "I've Been Drinkin'," "Big Dog," "All Night Long" and more.

See Daddy B. Nice's Artist Guide to 803Fresh.

Here Is A List Of "Trailride" aka "Trail Ride" Songs Currently In My Music Library.

"Trail Ride"---Carl Sims 2011
"Trail Ride"---Lebrado 2013
"Trailride Certified"---Jeter Jones, Crystale 2016
"Zydeco, Blues & Trail Ride"---RMG Family (Beat Flippa, Pokey Bear, Jeter Jones, Crystal
Thomas, Big Cynthia, Miss Portia et.al.) 2016
"Trail Ride"---Jaye Hammer 2016
"Ratchet Trailride"---Jeter Jones, Boozie Badazz, DeShay, DJ Scooter 2021
"At The Trailride"---Pokey Bear 2017
"Trailride 101"---Jay Morris 2025
"Trailrider's Shuffle"---Big Mucci, Rico 2020
"Trail Ride"---Lady Redtopp, Bri Rocket 2023
"That Trail Ride Life"---J.B. Hendricks 2023
"Trail Ride Slide"---Angel Faye Russell 2017
"Dukes & Boots" (Trail-Ride Version)---Avail Hollywood 2021
"Trailride Anthem"---Jeter Jones 2023
"Headed To The Trailride"---Meeka Meeka 2025
"Trailride Certified (Remix)"---Jeter Jones, Cupid, Big Tony 2018
"A Party At The Trailride"---Stephanie McDee, Mr. Cotton 2014
"Trailride Sailing"---Meechie 2023
"Trailride Love"---Tyrus Turner 2025
"Come To The Trailride"---Jeter Jones 2023
"Trail Ride"---Sir Charles Jones, Jeter Jones 2022
"Trail Ride GMix"---Sir Jonathan Burton 2023
"Trail Ride Jump"---Cheff Da Entertainer, Poka Jones, Sticky P 2023
"Trail Ride Party"---Jeter Jones, Just Just-K 2021
"Take Me To The Trailride"---V. Sunshyn 2024
"Love You Down (Trailride Mix)"---Jeter Jones, JD 2021
"Trailride Certified 3"---Jeter Jones, Level 2024
"Cowgirl Trailride"---S. Dott, Tonio Armani 2024
"South Carolina Trailride"---ToneDrake 2025
"Trail Ride Slide (Remix)"---Honey Gurl, Jeter Jones, JFly Barber 2025
"Trail Ride Shawty"---Marcellus The Singer 2022
"Trailride Certified"---Jennifer Watts 2021

I make no claims to it being an exhaustive tally. It merely reflects my particular favorites. What I find most interesting are the dates (approximate). With a couple of exceptions--Carl Sims, Lebrado, Stephanie McDee--none of the recordings predate 2016, the year Jeter Jones's third and breakthrough southern soul album "Trailride Certified" appeared, swiftly followed by Beat Flippa's "Trailride Music: Volume 1". Before that, "trail ride" wasn't a "thing" in southern soul music.

This project was inspired by Tonio Armani and S. Dott's "Cowgirl Trailride, currently Daddy B. Nice's #1 Southern Soul Single its second time round. The new "Cowgirl Trailride" line dance has gone viral in "Boots On The Ground" fashion, with over a million and a half new streams in the first three weeks since its June 1st reappearance.

In Other News:

According to reports, Mike Clark Jr. ("Auntie Outside Tonight," "Keep On Steppin'") has signed a record deal with Atlantic. His first southern soul EP, Keep On Steppin', was released June 17th, prior to the partnership with Atlantic. The EP includes "Auntie Outside," "Keep On Steppin'" and "Doghouse". Clark Jr.'s cover of the Love Doctor's "Slow Roll It" is not included, most likely due to copyright reasons.

See Daddy B. Nice's Artist Guide to Mike Clark Jr.

Fat Daddy has released a new six-tune EP titled Perfect, featuring his new hit single "Got My Money Right". (Watch Daddy B. Nice's Top 10 Singles for July 2025.) The title tune, "Perfect," features FPJ. Fat Daddy, whose real name is Allen Turner, is the son of blues legend R.L. Griffin, longtime owner of R.L.'s Blues Palace in Dallas, Texas.

See Daddy B. Nice's Artist Guide to Fat Daddy.

J. Red The Nephew dropped a new EP oh his label Soul Mop Productions in late April. Redemption features a remix of J. Red's popular "Too Young For Me," accompanied by Itz Karma. Other tracks of note are "So Good" and "Like A Bass Drum".

See Daddy B. Nice's Artist Guide to J. Red The Nephew.

YouTube Celebrates Its 20th Anniversary

I don't know what I'd do without YouTube. Probably slink off, wither away and die. Prior to 2005 all I could give my readers was 30-60 minute sound samples. It was terrible. YouTube enabled me to lift the music to heights previously unheard of. Linking to YouTube gave my readers instant access to the songs I was writing about. You've heard of the old axiom "A picture's worth a thousand words"? So is a YouTube video. Popularizing southern soul music has been my life's mission, and YouTube has been my most indispensable tool.

---Daddy B. Nice

**************

Comments, information or questions for Daddy B. Nice?
Write to:
daddybnice@southernsoulrnb.com
*************

June 7, 2025:

TOP 40 SOUTHERN SOUL SINGLES: JUNE

An expanded list of the songs vying for "Top Ten Singles" in JUNE 2025.

1. "Cowgirl Trailride" (Re-Entry)---Tonio Armani & S. Dott
2. "Imagination"---Ice Doll feat. Marcellus The Singer
3. "Side By Side"---Cecily Wilborn feat. King George
4. "Love Entanglement"---Gasner The Artist
5. "Trailride Sailing"---Meechie
6. "My Stetson (Remix)"---Keith Brougham feat. Jones Monroe & Toy Toy
7. "Good Guys"---Bigg Robb feat. The Problem Solvas
8. "My Type Of Carryin' On"---Nephew Jones
9. "Juke Joint"---FPJ
10. "Line It Up"---Da Director feat. Houston County Cowboy, Devonese, Chill Will

11. "Real Good Time"---King George
12. "Cornbread Country Fed"---ISHA (Telisha Carridine)
13. "Can We Just Stay"---Troy Henry
14. "Love Me For Real"---Breeze Mr.Do2Much
15. "Jump Judy"---803Fresh
16. "Toe Up"---Myia B feat. Charmeka Joquelle
17. "Trailride 101"---Jay Morris
18. "Dangerous/Wetter"---Morgan Wallen feat. Twista, Erika Shevon
19. "Tweaker Shuffle"---King Willonius
20. "Work Dat Fan"---Stacii Adams

21. "Got My Money Right"---Fat Daddy
22. "Country Ride Out"---DJ Trans feat. Dr. Dolla
23. "Shot House"---Devonese feat. Jeter Jones
24. "Lick Back"---Star Redd feat. Sir Charles Jones
25. "I've Been Drinkin'"---803 Fresh
26. "So Close"---Stevie J. Blues feat. Dubb Ruffin
27. "Rooster (Where Dem' Hens At?)"---Mo'B
28. "One Mo' Time"---Kami Cole feat. Jeter Jones
29. "Arkansas Boy"---J.C. McKeller
30. "Feel Good Music"---Jammie Evans feat. Ronnie Bell

31. "B.F.N."---Big Mel
32. "Addicted"---Magic One feat. Vick Allen
33. "Boots On The Ground (Poppinz Mix)"---803Fresh
34. "Saturday Night Blues"---J.T. Watkins
35. "It's All About You"---Memphis Jackson feat. Theodis Ealey
36. "Next To You"---Crystal Thomas
37. "Ride With Me"---Willie Clayton
38. "Played"---Kyia B
39. "Be Careful"---Vick Allen
40. "Hustle"---Big Yayo

**************

Comments, information or questions for Daddy B. Nice?
Write to:
daddybnice@southernsoulrnb.com
*************

May 26, 2025:

Daddy B. Nice's

News & Notes:

Southern Soul: THESE ARE THE GOOD OL' DAYS!

How does it feel, Southern Soul Nation, to have the hottest-trending music in America? Another day, another reel of TikTok "shorts" and YouTube videos to get your feet tapping. Anyone tiring of "Boots On The Ground? Hell Naw! Bishop Bullwinkle's "Hell Naw To The Naw Naw!" went viral ten years ago. And 803Fresh has been in TikTok's top ten streams for months now, often at #1.This is the "Cupid Shuffle" all over again. (17 years ago, 99 million views).

Like water rising in a flooding basement, "Boots On The Ground" is permeating every corner of the American cultural landscape, and the demand shows no sign of flagging. The newest "Boots" video tallied more than three million streams in its first ten days! Michelle Obama is dancing to it (so subtle, so smooth). Kamala Harris is learning how to do it. It's even the highlight of this year's graduation ceremonies at many universities, with senior officials as well as twenty-something, cap-and-gowned graduates all seemingly conversant with the "Boots" line dance. The contrast between southern soul's feel-good, dance-oriented music and the hiphop implosion taking place at Diddy's trial in New York City couldn't be greater.

Up here in the mountains of Boulder Colorado, one-time Jackson, Mississippi resident Coach Prime (Deion Sanders, Colorado football coach) is looking out on the majestic Flatirons doing a podcast interview. What is that familiar song we hear playing in the background of his luxurious office (usually dominated by the sounds of hiphop)? Why, none other than King George singing "Can't Stay Too Long". Yep. This is southern soul heaven, right here, right now. Meanwhile, Mike Clark Jr.'s "Keep On Stepping" has taken the social media baton from "Boots On The Ground" and is running away with reels of line-dancing shorts.

But wait!...The latest front-runner for streams in this unprecedented harvest of line-dancing highlights gone viral is a beautiful, haunting and comparatively slow-tempo-ed bomb from two years ago---Daddy B. Nice's #1 Single from August 2023, "Cowgirl Trailride," by S. Dott and Tonio Armani. The Sparta, Georgia-native Armani, the biggest star to not yet become a full-fledged southern soul star, already has a highly-popular line-dancing favorite on social media, "Country Girl". Now "Cowgirl Trailride," his collaboration with S. Dott, has been resuscitated with a slow but sexy, hip-swaying line-dance gone viral, and it's everywhere on the Web, with Armani's unforgettable "Horses in the stable / I love the way you ride...ride...ride it..." locomoting line-dancers in dozens of shorts.

Yes, it's the "Days of Wine and Roses" for southern soul---the "Days of Hennessy and Herb". When southern soul singers are asked to describe southern soul music, they invariably give two answers: one, it's a mixture of blues, gospel, R&B and rock and roll; and two, it's some version of "It's 'feel good' music." And yep. We're feeling it. A list of southern soul artists who have become household names---at least for a time---would have to include the aforementioned Cupid ("Cupid Shuffle"), Bishop Bullwinkle ("Hell Naw To The Naw Naw"), Theodis Ealey ("Stand Up In It") and King George ("Keep On Rollin'").

I'd like to throw out David Brinston's "Kick It," recorded a quarter-century ago, and reviewed this month by Daddy B. Nice (DAVID BRINSTON LIVE), as a candidate for today's line-dancers. It's a song you simply cannot play loud enough, and whether someone finds the inspiration to choreograph it or not, "Kick It" is a testimony to the fact that southern soul hasn't died, isn't going to die, and will always be there to make us smile and dance as if there's no tomorrow filled with problems.

See Daddy B. Nice's New Album Reviews.

Miscellaneous Notes:

Mother's Day weekend 2025 continued to be arguably the highest-grossing annual holiday for southern soul performers, with at least twelve major concerts (with many headlining stars) transpiring across The South and ten times that many deejay-hosted, line-dancing events (the "Boots On The Ground" effect) in such demand their tickets were sold on major platforms like Eventbrite and Ticketmaster. (The latter a first.)

Kang803, who gained fame as the producer of King George's "Keep On Rollin'," has published a new EP---his first---entitled New School Blues, including new singles by King George ("Real Good Time") and Cecily Wilborn w/ King George ("Side By Side").

Fat Daddy has released a six-song EP---his second long-play collection---called Perfect. The first single is "Got My Money Right".

Watch for a new collection soon to be released by Annie Washington aka Mrs. B ("Show Pony," "Thick Pocketbook," "3 Legs").

King George headlines with Morris Day in Detroit July 19th, and in a sign of passing eras George is the headliner over the former superstar of The Time. See Daddy B. Nice's Concert Calendar.

Watch for overlooked singles by Meechie ("Trailride Sailing"), Gasner The Artist ("Love Entanglement") and Nephew Jones ("My Type of Carryin' On") getting new, second-look love from deejays despite less than successful debuts. (Hint: it's already happening.)

Which recording artist(s) notched the most songs on Daddy B. Nice's Top 10 singles charts in 2024? There were two artists tied with five a piece.

Ciddy Boi P: "This Is Texas," "She Looks Good In Anything," "Fishing Hole," "One More Day," "What You Waiting For"
Curt The Country Man: "Back Road," "Back Roads (Remix), "Going Out," "Whiskey," "Two Beers"

Neither artist has charted yet in 2025. See Daddy B. Nice's Comprehensive Index.

One last note on 803Fresh's "Boots On The Ground" and...Where 'dem fans at?...I can't remember fans (the kind to cool off with) being incorporated into a dance song, but having fun with body movements has been around forever. Back in 1965 Shirley Ellis had it going on:

Listen to Shirley Ellis singing the "Clapping Song". 1965.

Here's Shirley Ellis onstage with line-dancers and hand-clapping.

Listen to Shirley Ellis singing the "Clapping Song" live onstage on YouTube.

---Daddy B. Nice

**************

Comments, information or questions for Daddy B. Nice?
Write to:
daddybnice@southernsoulrnb.com
*************

May 7, 2025:

TOP 40 SOUTHERN SOUL SINGLES: MAY

An expanded list of the songs vying for "Top Ten Singles" in MAY 2025.

1. "Cheat Code"---Lacee
2. "It's Alright (Just Do It, Do It)"---Gwen Yvette
3. "Makin' Love Costs Money"---Angel Faye Russell aka Angel Faye Williams
4. "Something In The Air"---West Love feat. J-Wonn
5. "Tequila"---Willie Clayton
6. "Leave With You"---Frank Johnson
7. "Tell Me What Will"---Will G. Soul
8. "Knock It Out The Box"---Cousin Dee
9. "Lit This Weekend"---Tia Catillia feat. Nino The Gentlemen
10. "Big Ol' Horse"---Big Bo

11. "Southern Soul Southside"---Volton Wright feat. Bigg Sacc
12. "Do Yo Dance"---P2K DaDiddy feat. Grandbandz
13. "Hat, Pants, Boots"---J.L. Thompson
14. "Addicted"---O.C. Soul
15. "South Carolina Trail Ride"---ToneDrake
16. "My Stetson"---Keith Brougham
17. "Trailride Love"---Tyrus Turner
18. "Juke Joint Slide"---Jay Swag
19. "Love Games"---Volton Wright
20. "Kuntree Man"---Sunshine The Singer feat. Bad Newz

21. "Mr. Come Get It"---Young Guy feat. Yuric Priimer
22. "What If It Was Me"---Boss Lady Coco
23. "Thunder Cat"---DJ Mega
24. "Stay Right There"---Mike Clark Jr. feat. Big Bo
25. "Southern Woman"---T-Man feat. Willie Clayton
26. "Special Lady"---Prince DeLeon feat. Vick Allen and L.J. Echols
27. "What You See"---Jeter Jones feat. DeShay
28. "Hey Cowboy"---K. Renaa
29. "Step With It"---Mr. Smoke
30. "Feel Good Music"---Jammie Evans feat. Ronnie Bell

31. "Juke Joint"---FPJ
32. "Hater's Dream"---Nelson Curry
33. "Fun Tonight"---Mz. Brown Suga feat. J. Lake
34. "Weekend"---Toya C.
35. "Groove"---Big Kutty feat. Jeter Jones
36. "B.F.N."---Big Mel
37. "Country Girls Outside"---Christopher Kane
38. "Real Thang"---Volton Wright feat. B. Pureese
39. "I Been Drinkin' And Sure Wasn't Thinkin'"---J.J. Caillier
40. "On The Floor (Hey Lil' Mama)"---Malcom Simmons

************

Send product to:
SouthernSoulRnB.com
P.O. Box 19574
Boulder, Colorado 80308
Or e-Mail:
daddybnice@southernsoulrnb.com
*************

April 25, 2025:

Daddy B. Nice's

News & Notes:

Southern Soul in New York City!

I never thought I'd see it. They're street-dancing to 803Fresh's "Boots On The Ground" in Times Square outside the discount Broadway tickets booth. Ubiquitous in NYC, these street buskers are taking the line dance moves to a whole 'nother level, attracting crowds who watch, stupefied, wondering what the hell they're witnessing. Very few will comprehend they're listening to a genre called southern soul, and even fewer will enter the nirvana where we southern soul fans pass our pleasurable days. But it's happening nevertheless, and what was unimaginable for the southern soul scene a couple of decades ago---that is, the younger generation completely enthused and energized by southern soul---is now a reality. One amusing footnote: most of the YouTube and TikTok videos chronicling these impromptu street dances in Manhattan label it "Texas culture". Guess they don't know it originated in South Carolina. Are line dances Southern Soul's entree into the national consciousness?

Listen to a new interview with 803Fresh on YouTube.

Bobby Rush at the Grand Ole Opry

Three-time Grammy Award-Winner Bobby Rush is headed to the Grand Ole Opry with white blues guitarist Kenny Wayne Shephard in August. Here's what Bobby had to say about it:

"Although I'm known for being a Bluesman and I live the blues, sleep the blues, breathe the blues, and eat the blues, I actually grew up listening to country classics on WLAC radio. Willie Nelson is one of my favorites, and I've always loved listening to the Opry and artists like Minnie Pearl and Roy Acuff. After all these years well into my career, to be making my debut at the iconic Grand Ole Opry at 91 years old, is a dream come true."

New Music Alerts

Willie Clayton has a new album: Double Play Soul R&B. Willie has also done something he's never done before. The master vocalist has gone country. That's right. He's recorded a pure country single called "Tequila" and it is an experience. Bigg Robb has a new album out whose title will remind longtime fans of his early work: "Juke Joint Soul". "David Brinston Live" is the title of David Brinston's latest project, due for release soon. Lomax, whose career was put on pause due to a fire a couple of years ago, is rumored to be readying an album of new work. Volton Wright has published a new long-play set called "Love Games," the subject of a four-star New Album Review this month by Daddy B. Nice. And new artist Jay Swag has entered the scene with a new album called "Southern Swag". Avail Hollywood has published a set of all new work called "The King Of Grown Folks Music". Omar Cunningham also has new music packaged in a "limited edition" CD titled "The Love Album". And Ricky White, absent from the publishing world of late, is back with a collection called "Turn My Life Around".

Why Re-Inventing The English Language Hurts Recording Artists In The Long Run

You think it's cool. You think it's hip. You think it distinguishes you as cutting-edge. What I'm talking about is new song titles. Let's get rid of the "C" in "country" and call it "Kuntree". Let's get rid of the "you" and replace it with "U". Re-inventing the spelling of song titles may seem a nifty thing to do at the time, but it is not a prudent thing to do if you want your song remembered for posterity. Two or three (or many more) years after the fact, when people are trying to find your song in their music library, do you think they're going to remember you put a "U" instead of "You" or a "K" instead of a "C" in "country"? But it's worse... If you're searching for a song on YouTube or other music apps, you're at a more serious disadvantage. People aren't going to find you, bro'.

Money On A Scale Southern Soul Has Never Seen Before

Checking into Ticketmaster on a recent Saturday, tickets for an upcoming King George concert were selling at the rate of 45 sales per hour. At an average rate of $200 per sale (very modest considering most sales involve more than one person), that's ticket revenue coming in at nine thousand dollars per hour. Multiply that times approximately 12 peak business hours in a day and that's over one hundred thousand dollars per day! And remember, many of those tickets sales are upwards of $400 or $500 per item (twice as much as calculated) and there are another 12 hours in the day when sales (if less) are still being transpired. Yes, pinch yourself. It's a new era for contemporary southern soul.

Deejays...

There are so many southern soul-spinning deejays it's becoming impossible to keep up. Following the example of DJ Jammin' Jay, the latest music jock to turn to "retailing" his mixes is DJ Cutty Cut. One of his latest is "Southern Soul Expo 8," a playlist that features both "clean" and "dirty" edits. Another deejay I've been favoring on YouTube is DJ Blast, who wears a cowboy hat and dances continuously. He's got his pulse on the newest material, as does another talented and knowledgeable jock, DJ Mix Master T, whose mixes can run almost two hours. (Check out his "Southern Soul Wild And Loose Mixshow.") An additional "perk" of the latter pair. No commercial breaks, at least for the time being.

Miscellaneous...

"Boots On The Ground" lyric references are proliferating in new music by other artists. That's the evidence a tune has become a sure-fire classic (i.e. "Stand Up In It," "Hole In The Wall," "Keep on Rollin'," "Slow Roll It".). Even musical snippets are showing up in the music of others, particularly the three-beat verse-end that makes the line-dancers shake their fans and butts. 803Fresh fans can listen to an interview with their beloved singer/songwriter on YouTube: "I Am Carolina featuring 803Fresh (Episode 3)". And out of left-field: Rickey Smiley has a YouTube video called "Church Folks Version of Boots On The Ground".

Old-school southern-soulers may appreciate a new and potentially controversial YouTube profile of Tyrone Davis entitled "The Shocking Secret Tyrone Davis Hid For Years".

New artist Tina Brown, who's been introduced to the southern soul audience by Jeter Jones and "Slack" Jefferson, has a unique, raw, country vocal sound that attracted me. I downloaded her new single "Perfect Man" in anticipation of it charting in May. Then, on the third listening (the first close listening), I literally let a yowl of pain. OUT OF TUNE! Tina must be sharp or flat on at least half the notes. OUCH! If she's really this raw, it's up to the producer to shield her from the public embarrassment.

---Daddy B. Nice

**************

Comments, information or questions for Daddy B. Nice?
Write to:
daddybnice@southernsoulrnb.com
*************

April 6, 2025:

TOP 40 SOUTHERN SOUL SINGLES: APRIL

An expanded list of the songs vying for "Top Ten Singles" in APRIL 2025.

1. "Keep On Steppin' Remix"---Mike Clark Jr. feat. The Ying Yang Twins
2. "Pressure"---Big Pokey Bear feat. Boosie
3. "5 Mo' Minutes"---Myia B
4. "Waste Your Time"---Marcellus The Singer
5. "I'll Be Your Lollipop"---Ms. Jody
6. "Paying My Baby's Bills"---Sir Charles Jones
7. "Blow The Whistle"---Big Mel
8. "Pop That"---Mike Clark Jr.
9. "Big Bone Girl Party"---Ced Wade feat. Queen Thickums
10. "Ain't Nobody"---OldMan MP

11. "Bitch You Better Not Have"---Ms. Jody
12. "One More Day"---Vick Allen
13. "F.Y.B. (I'll Fuck You Better)"---Squirt Kelly feat. FPJ
14. "Work Dat Pole"---Da Director feat. Jeter Jones
15. "Big Ol' Horse"---Big Bo
16. "Knock It Out The Box"---Cousin Dee
17. "Leave With You"---Frank Johnson
18. "Trailride Love"---Tyrus Turner
19. "Trail Ride Slide Remix"---Honey Gurl feat. Jeter Jones & JFly Barber
20. "It's Still Yours"---Ms. Jody

21. "It's Two Sides"---L.J. Echols
22. "Angel Wings" (Re-Entry)---Myia B
23. "18 Wheeler"---ERealist feat. Arthur Young
24. "Hoo Down"---Tee Doe Brown
25. "The Blame (Remix)"---Fat Daddy
26. "What Would You Do"---Donnie Ray feat. Jeff Floyd
27. "Look Good Feel Good"---Roi "Chip" Anthony feat. Lil' Runt & Eazy Harbor
28. "All Night Long"---Mr. Nelson feat. Edrick Hill
29. "Perfect"---Fat Daddy feat. FPJ
30. "Let Me Rock You"---Troy Henry

31. "Closing Time"---Crystal Thomas
32. "Shake It Baby"---Lomax
33. "Party (Cut Up And Get Loose)"---Willie Clayton
34. "Moonshine In The Trunk (Remix)"---Nephew Jones feat. Jeter Jones
35. "Handy Man"---Shae Nicole
36. "Cougar Thang"---Tre Davis feat. Rabbitt Orr
37. "Juke Joint Slide"---Jay Swag
38. "Fireball Moonshine"---Avail Hollywood
39. "Country Wood"---Da Director
40. "You Gonna Make Me Cry"---Ghetto Cowboy

************

Send product to:
SouthernSoulRnB.com
P.O. Box 19574
Boulder, Colorado 80308
Or e-Mail:
daddybnice@southernsoulrnb.com
*************

March 17, 2025:

Daddy B. Nice's

News & Notes:

Welcome back to "News & Notes" as we bid a fond farewell to the 2024 music award nominees and winners and welcome an abundance of new southern soul music for 2025.

New Music:

Of course, if you've been watching the music scene closely, you know Sir Charles Jones and Jeter Jones published new albums over the holidays. Both Charles' The Elite King and Jeter's My Fans Only gain high praise from Daddy B. Nice in New Album Reviews, as does T.K. Soul's Timeless, which arrived in late January.

Top 10 charting singles from that trio of releases in the first three months of 2025 include "Nail In The Middle," "Can't Run From Love," "Another Round" (Jeter Jones), "Flow Like A River," "Where I Belong" (Sir Charles Jones) and "Put A Freak On Me" (T.K. Soul). In addition, Calvin Richardson charted in the Top 10 with his single "Changed Man" from his new album, Five Years Later.

The first quarter of '25 also brought some fresh departures from the country-dominated southern soul of 24's singles charts. Hip-hop re-emerged with King George's "Unbelievable" featuring Snoop Dogg. And a wave of up-tempo dance jams led by 803Fresh's viral line-dancing smash "Boots On The Ground" gave the new year a jolt of high energy. Mike Clark's hypnotic "Keep On Steppin'" and Simply Wayne's a re-release of "Juke Joint Love" continued the club-dancing mania. Even more surprising after a year of scant CD activity was an unexpected influx of long-play albums.

New Album Releases:

A silky and refined-looking Ms. Jody re-emerged with Cougar On The Prowl on her long-time label Ecko Records with recommended tracks "Cougar On The Prowl," "I'll Be Your Lollipop" and "I'm In That Mood Again".

Her former label-mate, Sheba Potts' Wright, packaged her Best Southern Soul Song By A Longtime Veteran, award-winning single "Ain't Got Time" into a five song EP titled Ain't Got Time, The New Beginning.

Meanwhile, southern soul's vocal maestro Willie Clayton dropped a new twelve-song album entitled Double Play Soul & R&B. The set begins with Willie's current #4 single "Lose My Cool" and closes with a remix of his slow classic "Boom Boom Boom".

Not to be outdone, the ever-prolific Tyree Neal published a seventeen-track LP called Love Intervention. Among the generous selections is a track named "I Left Home" featuring the smoky keyboard/organ of Highway Heavy and a duet with Veronica Ra'elle entitled "Do Me".

Meanwhile, southern soul rapper Joe Nice has self-published an LP called The King Of Southern Soul Hip-Hop, available in only a twelve-inch vinyl format. The set features multiple appearances by fan-favorite Nelson Curry and also a rare guest stint by "Roll It Roll It" star Mr. Sam.

But that's not all. Rodnae aka Rodnae Da Boss ("I Just Came To Party," "You Must Be Smokin'") released his third full-length album Strictly For The Ladies, a seventeen-track set peppered with guest artists including Jeter Jones, Avail Hollywood, Coldrank, Kiko Pryor, Calvin Taylor, Ray Lavender, Omar Cunningham, Volton Wright and Cupid.

Rising southern soul artist Tiffany Rachal put out her second full-length album, Southern Soul Country Girl, on the Jones Boyz label. The set includes a dance jam titled "Southern Soul Shuffle" and her latest single, "Grass Ain't Greener".

Another upwardly-trending, young southern soul artist, Memphis Jackson, published his first collection, It's All About You. The album brings together singles he's released over the last year, including "It's Been A Long Time," "I Gotta Have You" and "I Can't Live Without You".

And in case you missed it, Ronnie Bell ("I'll Pay The Shipping Cost") released Moments in Time, Pt. 1: Cookout Classics late last year. The 10-track set includes the single "Grown Man" and "I Ain't Going Nowhere" featuring guest artist Pokey Bear.

Two Interviews Of Note:

A couple of extremely enjoyable interviews are currently available on YouTube.

Marcellus TheSinger On His New Music & More---Interviewed by Jazz E Jeff And The Crew

Jeter Jones Da Kang of Trailride Blues on Southern Soul, Life Lessons, Trail Rides, & Marine Life---Interviewed by Nestor the Don and Pac-Man

The Jeter Jones interview in particular is a doozey. Two hours long. I was digging it but only got through an hour. It begins with Jeter singing his cover of "My Mind Is Playing Tricks Of Me," which I want to remind folks your Daddy B. Nice was the first to give its rightful accolades, and the interview just gets better and better. Marcellus is great too, opening up on his very own opinions of his music. Enjoy!

R.I.P.: Angie Stone, Jerry Butler, Roberta Flack, Gwen McCrae, Chris Jasper of the Isleys

---Daddy B. Nice

************

Send product to:
SouthernSoulRnB.com
P.O. Box 19574
Boulder, Colorado 80308
Or e-Mail:
daddybnice@southernsoulrnb.com
*************

March 8, 2025:

TOP 40 SOUTHERN SOUL SINGLES: MARCH

An expanded list of the songs vying for "Top Ten Singles" in MARCH 2025.

1. "Boots On The Ground"---803Fresh
2. "Keep On Steppin'"---Mike Clark Jr.
3. "Turn Me Loose"---Carolyn Staten
4. "Lose My Cool"---Willie Clayton
5. "Hoedown Showdown"---Cecily Wilborn
6. "Country Man"---West Love
7. "Put A Freak On Me"---T.K. Soul
8. "Whole Lotta Country"---Sonny Boi feat. Jeter Jones
9. "Love My Southern Soul"---Catt Daddy feat. Jeter Jones
10. "Soul Train Line"---Tee Doe Brown

11. "Nobody But You"---Cecily Wilborn
12. "Mississippi Woman"---Carolyn Staten
13. "Baby Got Us Jamming"---T.K. Soul
14. "Pillow Talk"---West Love
15. "I Need It From You"---Necie feat. Mr. Smoke
16. "Baby If I"---King George
17. "Turn Me Loose"---Tucka
18. "Waste Your Time"---Marcellus The Singer
19. "Mr. Right"---Kyia B (Kyia Buckingham)
20. "Paying My Baby's Bills"---Sir Charles Jones

21. "One More Day"---Vick Allen
22. "Dance All Night"---B.J. Moodswing feat. J-Wonn
23. "In Love With You"---Mr. Sipp
24. "I'm In That Mood Again"---Ms. Jody
25. "F.Y.B. (I'll Fuck You Better)"---Squirt Kelly feat. F.P.J.
26. "Ain't Goin' Nowhere"---Shae Nicole
27. "Ride"---Solomon Thompson
28. "Pop That"---Mike Clark Jr.
29. "Hooked On Me"---Mr. Nelson
30. "Fine Man"---Adaeze O.

31. "5 Mo' Minutes"---Myia B
32. "Go Ahead And Do Yo Thang"---Unkle Phunk feat. Big Yayo
33. "Sexy And You Know It"---Avail Hollywood feat. DJ Trac
34. "Southern Soul Forever"---Joe Nice feat. Nelson Curry
35. "Blow Your Whistle"---Ali-Jamal feat. Jeter Jones
36. "It's Yours"---Lenny Williams
37. "Pressure"---Big Pokey Bear feat. Boosie
38. "Like A Lady"---Sonny Boi feat. Volton Wright
39. "Young Folks Blues"---Squirt Kelly
40. "Trigger Blues"---Marvin "Boogie" Brown

************

Send product to:
SouthernSoulRnB.com
P.O. Box 19574
Boulder, Colorado 80308
Or e-Mail:
daddybnice@southernsoulrnb.com
*************

February 8, 2025:

TOP 40 SOUTHERN SOUL SINGLES: FEBRUARY

An expanded list of the songs vying for "Top Ten Singles" in FEBRUARY 2025.

1. "Unbelievable"---King George feat. Snoop Dogg
2. "Where I Belong"---Sir Charles Jones
3. "Juke Joint Love"---Simply Wayne
4. "Can't Run From Love"---Jeter Jones feat. Myia B
5. "Boots On The Ground"---803 Fresh
6. "Flow Like A River"---Sir Charles Jones
7. "If You Love Southern Soul"---Teeza (Antonio Coney)
8. "Rodeo Style"---Avail Hollywood
9. "Girl I Like Your Booty"---O.C. Soul feat. Boogaloo Jones
10. "Gotta Have You"---Memphis Jackson

11. "Keep On Steppin'"---Mike Clark Jr.
12. "Lose My Cool"---Willie Clayton
13. "Come Dance With Me"---CharMeka Joquelle feat. Cupid
14. "I Need It From You"---Necie feat. Mr. Smoke
15. "It's The Weekend"---Jhordyn Datcher
16. "Whole Lotta Country"---Sonny Boi feat. Jeter Jones
17. "Be Myself (Remix)"---Cecily Wilborn feat. Sir Charles Jones
18. "Rock Me (Remix)"---Mista Kane feat. Jeter Jones
19. "Country Girl"---Tonio Armani
20. "Dance All Night"---B.J. Moodswing feat. J-Wonn

21. "Turn Me Loose"---Carolyn Staten
22. "Southern Soul Shuffle"---Tiffany Rachal
23. "If U Don't"---Avail Hollywood
24. "Country Wind"---Shantavia Nicole
25. "Caboose"---Mr. Campbell
26. "About A Horse"---Mr. Mister feat. Jeter Jones
27. "On Time Lover"---Tina P
28. "Mississippi Woman"---Carolyn Staten
29. "That Thang Thangin'"---Big Money Fame
30. "Play It Off So Cool"---Mr. Hot Topic

31. "P.T.S.O."---FPJ
32. "Can't Replace My Love"---Sweet Lysa
33. "Paying My Baby's Bills"---Sir Charles Jones
34. "These Arms Of Mine"---Tucka
35. "All White"---Jus Epik feat. Gylo & Money Waters
36. "I Saw You Looking"---DJ A.J. Capone feat. Willie P
37. "My Fans Only"---Jeter Jones
38. "Boss Lady"---Young Guy
39. "Get Down"---Big Yayo feat. J-Wonn
40. "Country Man"---West Love

************

Send product to:
SouthernSoulRnB.com
P.O. Box 19574
Boulder, Colorado 80308
Or e-Mail:
daddybnice@southernsoulrnb.com
*************

January 7, 2025:

TOP 40 SOUTHERN SOUL SINGLES: JANUARY

An expanded list of the songs vying for "Top Ten Singles" in JANUARY 2025.

1. "Feels So Good"---O.B. Buchana
2. "Nail In The Middle"---Jeter Jones
3. "Thin Line (Remix)"---Marcellus The Singer
4. "Changed Man"---Calvin Richardson
5. "Stay At Home"---Jay Morris Group
6. "Keep My Man"---Ashley Ave
7. "Another Round"---Jeter Jones
8. "Hell On My Hands"---J'Cenae
9. "Shake Your Rump"---Jumpin' Joe
10. "Shoot My Shot"---J-Wonn

11. "Cougar On The Prowl"---Ms. Jody
12. "There She Go"---T.K. Soul
13. "Party On A Dually"---Ashley Ave
14. "This One Is For You"---Erica Henderson
15. "Take Me To The Trailride"---V. SunShyn
16. "Mississippi"---Ace4K
17. "Rooster"---Sir Charles Jones
18. "Can't Run From Love"---Jeter Jones feat. Myia B.
19. "Country Love"---West Love
20. "I Came To Party"---Troy Henry

21. "Turn Me Loose"---Carolyn Staten
22. "Cornbread"---Married Couple of Southern Soul
23. "Don't Waste My Time"---DJ Trans feat. Cheff Da Entertainer & Zee Man
24. "I Feel Good"---Mister Cotton
25. "Kind Of Woman"---Sampson Boyz
26. "Two Steps"---Mr. Don't Leave
27. "Good Cookin'"---Jake Carter
28. "Pop That Fan"---Cupid feat. M.C. World
29. "What You Gone Do"---Miss Lady Soul feat. J-Wonn
30. "Party On"---Keneisha

31. "Good Vibes Only"---Fat Daddy
32. "Try Loving Me The Southern Soul Way"---Anthony Q. feat. Cecily Wilborn
33. "Girl I Like Your Booty"---O.C. Soul
34. "A Change Gonna Come"---West Love feat. Boosie
35. "Good Wood"---K.D. Dawson
36. "Can't Walk Over Me"---Keith Brougham
37. "What You See Is What You Get"---Stephanie McDee feat. Shaun Allen
38. "Good Lovin'"---Adaeze O.
39. "Watch Auntie Ride"---Cheff Da Entertainer feat. Zman & DJ Trans
40. "Just One Night"---Carl Sims

************

Send product to:
SouthernSoulRnB.com
P.O. Box 19574
Boulder, Colorado 80308
Or e-Mail:
daddybnice@southernsoulrnb.com
*************

UNDER CONSTRUCTION!

************

Send product to:
SouthernSoulRnB.com
P.O. Box 19574
Boulder, Colorado 80308
Or e-Mail:
daddybnice@southernsoulrnb.com
*************

UNDER CONSTRUCTION UNDER CONSTANT REVISION

**************

Comments, information or questions for Daddy B. Nice?
Write to:
daddybnice@southernsoulrnb.com
*************

TO BE CONTINUED....UNDER CONSTRUCTION...

**************

Comments, information or questions for Daddy B. Nice?
Write to:
daddybnice@southernsoulrnb.com
*************

July 7, 2025:

TOP 40 SOUTHERN SOUL SINGLES: JULY

An expanded list of the songs vying for "Top Ten Singles" in JULY 2025.

1. "Toe Up"---Myia B feat. Charmeka Joquelle
2. "Dangerous / Wetter"---Shawn Walka Mash-Up feat. Morgan Wallen, Erika Shevon & Twista
3. "285"---Poka Jones
4. "Got My Money Right"---Fat Daddy
5. "Love Me For Real"---Breeze MrDo2Much
6. "Summertime Down South (Southern Soul Slide)"---Ny'Aira
7. "Country Girl Love"---J.L. Thompson feat. B.J. Moodswing
8. "Boots On The Ground (Poppinz Mix)"---803Fresh
9. "Trailride 101"---Jay Morris
10. "Tweaker Shuffle"---King Willonius

11. "Work Dat Fan"---Stacii Adams
12. "Mr. Jody"---Uncle Willie
13. "Pay Like She Weigh"---M. Cally
14. "Country Rideout"---DJ Trans feat. Dr. Dolla
15. "Real Good Time"---King George
16. "Body Rock"---803 Party
17. "Southern Soul Train"---Charisse Mackey feat. Ashley Ave
18. "Headed To The Trailride"---Meeka Meeka
19. "Outside Tonight"---Big Chad Reed
20. "Down In Tha Country"---Joe Black Johnson

21. "Sneaky Link"---LaMorris Williams
22. "Real Woman"---Charmeka Menefee feat. West Love
23. "What You See"---Jeter Jones feat. Deshay
24. "Feelin' Alright"---Marcellus The Singer
25. "Get Drunk And Go Home"---Mr. Willy
26. "Trail Ride'n Woman"---X-Man Parker
27. "Hoedown"---Miss Lady Blues
28. "You Ain't Country Enough"---Mr. Sam
29. "After Party"---Sunshine The Singer feat. Fat Daddy
30. "Trail Scoot"---Ky Soul

31. "Shake It For The Country"---Avail Hollywood
32. "Southern Night Southern Love"---Ny’Aira
33. "Mississippi Boy 2025"---Charles Wilson
34. "Ain't Going"---Tia Catillia
35. "Push It"---Gentry-Jones feat. A.G. Hammond
36. "Should've Pulled Out"---L.J. Echols
37. "Stepping Out"---Jaye Hammer
38. "Lights On Lights Off"---Kevin Khule Harris
39. "Put It In Motion"---Ghetto Cowboy
40. "Let Me Love You"---Harrison Hollingquest feat. Drea'C

************

Send product to:
SouthernSoulRnB.com
P.O. Box 19574
Boulder, Colorado 80308
Or e-Mail:
daddybnice@southernsoulrnb.com
*************

Top 10 Singles

Daddy B. Nice's Top 10 "BREAKING" Southern Soul Singles For. . .

July 2025

1."Toe Up"----Myia B feat. Charmeka Joquelle

I came to this song from Kang803, the behind-the-scenes maestro of the South Carolina, 803-area-code vanguard (King George, 803Fresh, Charmeka Joquelle, etc.) that's sent southern soul hurtling into the viral stratosphere. The pedal-steel guitar-playing producer had just dropped his first EP recording project, New School Blues, and while researching it I stumbled across Myia's "Toe Up," thinking this was the culmination of everything last year's "Stand On Business" promised. Not only was "Stand On Business" an Honorable Mention for Best Mid-Tempo Song of 2024. It was the winner of Daddy B. Nice's "Best Out-Of-Left-Field Song" of the year. How surprised I was, then, to discover that, like her substantial gospel and r&b work, "Toe Up" was actually produced and recorded before Myia B became famous with "Stand On Business". And bringing this soulful, steel guitar-laced anthem full circle, Charmeka Joquelle---none other than the CharMeka of King George's mythically elegant "Grown Man"---composed it and and sings accompaniment.

Listen to Myia B and Charmeka Joquelle singing "Toe Up" on YouTube.

2. "Dangerous / Wetter"----Shawn Walka Mash-Up feat. Morgan Wallen, Erika Shevon & Twista

The first couple of times I heard it, I didn't like it. By the third time, I was hopelessly addicted. The thousands of comments on its original YouTube video with 13 million views (there are more videos with additional millions) cry out with the the public's gratitude---not to mention wishes it could be bought retail. The "Wetter" segments were originally recorded with the rapping done by Twista. And it was when I began to see the insertion of country artist Morgan Wallen as a rapper that the lights went on and I went limp with regard for the mash-up's genius. Read more about Wallen, country/southern soul cross-over and more in Daddy B. Nice's Morgan Wallen guide.

Listen to Morgan Wallen, Erika Shivon and Twista singing "Dangerous / Wetter" on YouTube.

3. "285"-----Poka Jones

People are sleeping on Poka Jones. His strength is a unique, charismatic, lower-octave voice. "285" is a great driving tune showcasing a young guy who's putting it all together with authenticity, texture and depth.

Listen to Poka Jones singing "285" on YouTube.

4. "Got My Money Right"----Fat Daddy

Hard to believe, but it's been seven years since Fat Daddy kicked down southern soul's green door with "The Blame". Assessing material has been his Achilles heel, but "Got My Money Right" is top-tier---sweet, mid-tempo southern soul. From his brand new EP, Perfect.

Listen to Fat Daddy singing "Got My Money Right" on YouTube.

5. "Love Me For Real"-----Breeze MrDo2Much

A classic southern soul sound---his breakthrough---from a young singer who honed his craft with stunningly-crafted covers. And Breeze is reaping the benefits with almost three million streams.

Listen to Breeze MrDo2Much singing "Love Me For Real" on YouTube.

6. "Summertime Down South (The Southern Soul Slide)"-----Ny'Aira

Masterfully-produced club jam featuring a part-rap, part-singing Ny'Aira debut brimming with wild energy and excitement.

Listen to Ny'Aira singing "Summertime Down South" on YouTube.

7. "Country Girl Love"-----J.L. Thompson feat. B.J. Moodswing

Another young artist, actually two, maturing before our eyes, fashioning a southern soul sound with attention to detail and inspiration derived from fealty to the greats who have come before.

Listen to J.L. Thompson and B.J. Moodswing singing "Country Girl Love" on YouTube.

8. "Boots On The Ground (Poppinz Mix)"-----803Fresh

Tired of "Boots On The Ground"? That's natural if, like me, you've been listening to it every day for the last three or four months. Try this fresh new mix, "Boots" with trumpets, and believe it or not, it's for sale.

Listen to 803Fresh singing "Boots On The Ground (Poppinz Mix)".

9. "Trailride 101"-----Jay Morris

Jay Morris goes solo on this one. You know the old Las Vegas trope? "What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas." Well, Jay just transferred it to trailrides.

Listen to Jay Morris singing "Trailride 101" on YouTube.

10. "Tweaker Shuffle"-----King Willonius

Wild name, strong vocalist, tasty guitar picking, but what really distinguishes this tune is packing the most profanities ever into a single southern soul song.

Listen to King Willonius singing "Tweaker Shuffle" on YouTube.

SouthernSoulRnB.com - Chitlin' Circuit Southern Soul Music Guide

Daddy B. Nice's Top 10 "BREAKING" Southern Soul Singles For. . .

June 2025

1. "Cowgirl Trailride (Re-Entry)"-----Tonio Armani & S. Dott

S. Dott's "Cowgirl Trailride" was Daddy B. Nice's #1 Single in August 2023, ensconced comfortably enough in the past for it to be long forgotten. But "Cowgirl Trailride" is no ordinary song, and Tonio Armani---the main driver of its renewed popularity---is no ordinary singer. In one of the unlikeliest of events, "Cowgirl Trailride" has been reborn as the newest southern soul line-dancing sensation, with hundreds of Tik Tok dancing shorts capturing fans' avid homages to its sensual melody, mystifying lyrics ("Horses in the stable / I love the way you ride...ride...ride...ride it...") and passionate Armani vocal. For the entire story read Daddy B. Nice's new artist guide to budding star Armani, who enters the New Generation chart at #38.

Listen to Tonio Armani & S. Dott singing "Cowgirl Trailride" on YouTube.

2. "Imagination"-----Ice Doll feat. Marcellus The Singer

This marvelous redo of the Temps classic is right out of Marcellus's soulful oldies wheelhouse, and Ice Doll brings her own ample soulfulness.

Listen to Ice Doll & Marcellus the Singer singing "Imagination" on YouTube.

3. "Side By Side"-----Cecily Wilborn feat. King George

This country pairing of Cecily Wilborn and King George is right up there on southern soul heaven's Cloud 9, nestling in the soft fluffy beside King George and CharMeka Joquelle's "Grown Man". From Kang803's new sampler, New School Blues.

Listen to Cecily Wilborn & King George singing "Side By Side" on YouTube.

4. "Love Entanglement"-----Gasner The Artist

"Love Entanglement" is a stunning outing by an incredibly gifted young artist, not only double-tracking vocals as much as an octave apart but inserting hair-raising acapella phrases. And that doesn't even take into account the astounding songwriting and production.

Listen to Gasner The Artist singing "Love Entanglement" on YouTube.

5. "Trailride Sailing"-----Meechie

I know there's a prodigious amount of southern soul music coming out these days, but sometimes I ask myself, "How could I not be aware of this? Did it actually hit my mailbox? And was I scared off by its haunting jazz saxophone?" Meechie's originality trumps all. This is a fantastic single.

Listen to Meechie singing "Trailride Sailing" on YouTube.

6. "My Stetson (Remix)"-----Keith Brougham feat. Jones Monroe & ToyToy.

Keith Brougham's southern soul debut "My Stetson" charted at #16 in last month's Top 40. Now the charismatic, low-key novelty returns in an even more addictive remix with two more-than-adequate female companions.

Listen to Keith Brougham, Jones Monroe and ToyToy singing "My Stetson (Remix)". on YouTube.

7. "Good Guys"-----Bigg Robb feat. Big Woo & The Problem Solvas

Twenty years ago this sound was controversial and cutting-edge, Bigg Robb cloning Ohio funk with the blues. Now it's old-school southern soul, its flawless execution as relevant and satisfying-going-down as ever.

Listen to Bigg Robb & The Problem Solvas singing "Good Guys" on YouTube.

8. "My Type Of Carryin' On"-----Nephew Jones

On the surface---or first impression---this single appears as well-worn as tires with 50K miles on the tread, but the groove works its way into your subconscious with such a rush all you want to say is, "Where's the dance floor?"

Listen to Nephew Jones singing "My Type Of Carryin' On" on YouTube.

9. "Juke Joint"------FPJ

FPJ raids Marcellus The Singer's "Until We Meet Again" for this one. Same melody and chords, almost identical beginning. Do these younger-generation guys get as pissed off as competing musicians did in previous eras? Or is it all good in this new A-I age? He borrows heavily from Young Guy's "Take Heed" as well. In spite of all the borrowing, though, FPJ hits it out of the park. Gonna be another hit single. (Guess that's in the park.)

Listen to FPJ singing "Juke Joint" on YouTube.

10. "Line It Up"-----Da Director feat. Houston County Cowboy, Devonese & Chill Will

This one was hard to find on YouTube, but it's worth it. Wild, middle-of-the-night, juke-joint sounds with a three-beat, "Boots On The Ground" chaser punctuating each verse.

Listen to Da Director et. al. singing "Line It Up" on YouTube.

Daddy B. Nice's Top 10 "BREAKING" Southern Soul Singles For. . .

May 2025

1. "Cheat Code"-----Lacee

Lacee Reed, man. There are more opinions on this lady than Shedeur Sanders. Many respected commentators have lobbied me over the years on her behalf, yet with the exception of the early hits---"Lacee's Groove" and "I Ran A Good Man Away"---Lacee's career has been compromised by inconsistent recording and less than stellar song choice. One thing I've never doubted, however, is Lacee's vocal sophistication, and in "Cheat Code" she has discovered her masterpiece, a one-of-a-kind song impeccably delivered---sung, in fact, as if she's the Willie Clayton of southern soul divas. And every time Lacee segues into the bridge, the one-two punch of the lovely melody and dazzling vocal technique are so enjoyable it makes my face squinch up, as if a tear of genuine appreciation is about to roll down my cheek. "Cheat Code," by the way, was published by Malaco.

Listen to Lacee singing "Cheat Code" on YouTube.

2. "It's Alright (Just Do It, Do It)"-----Gwen Yvette

This is the next line-dancing rave in the mode of "Boots On The Ground" and "Keep On Stepping". Gwendolyn McKinnon is an R&B singer who, like so many others (especially her fellow South Carolina 803-ers), has been pulled into the southern soul line-dancing scene. No YouTube yet, but you can watch the new line dance and listen to a rough copy of the song on Facebook.

3. "Makin' Love Costs Money"-----Angel Faye Russell

The effervescent Angel Faye Russell (or is it now Angel Faye Williams) forges her best single to date with this simple, catchy, tuneful outing. Call her when you get some.

Listen to Angel Faye Russell singing "Makin' Love Costs Money" on YouTube.

4. "Something In The Air"-----West Love feat. J-Wonn

Another club-dancing can't-miss. It's being marketed as a West Love featuring J-Wonn song but it's really a J-Wonn featuring West Love project. J-Wonn wrote it, obviously produced it and sings the most (including choruses). Nor has West Love ever done anything this "pop"-sounding. But give J-Wonn credit---it rocks, or at least sways.

Listen to J-Wonn and West Love singing "Something In The Air Tonight" on YouTube.

5. "Tequila"-----Willie Clayton

Never thought we'd see it. But....Here it is! A first. Willie Clayton singing country. And he does the damn thing!

Listen to Willie Clayton singing "Tequila" on YouTube.

6. "Leave With You"-----Frank Johnson

A very amiable mid-tempo tune from the young artist whose "Hate On Me" has quietly accumulated an eye-popping eight million views. It gets better every time you hear it.

Listen to Frank Johnson singing "Leave With You" on YouTube.

7. "Tell Me What Will"----Will G. Soul

This is a new song by a fledgling southern soul singer who walked all the way in from the farthest left field fence. The instrumental track is something wonderful to hear, live and Caribbean- flavored, and the guy can sing.

Listen to Will G. Soul singing "Tell Me What Will" on YouTube.

8. "Knock It Out The Box"-----Cousin Dee

Another line-dancing jam that's been slowly but surely knocking its way up the charts.

Listen to Cousin Dee singing "Knock It Out The Box" on YouTube.

9. "Lit This Weekend"----Tia Catillia feat. Nino The Gentleman

A new song with a hooky chorus by the lady whose debut single "Just Friends" just missed being one of the Top 25 Singles of 2024.

Listen to Tia Catillia and Nino The Gentleman singing "We Lit This Weekend" on YouTube.

10. "Big Ol' Horse"----Big Bo

Big Bo (she's a woman) has been working her way up the charts and at last squeezes into the Top 10 with this minimalist paean to a "big horse". Now what is she talking about?

Listen to Big Bo singing "Big Ol Horse" on YouTube.

Daddy B. Nice's Top 10 "BREAKING" Southern Soul Singles For. . .

April 2025

1. "Keep On Steppin' Remix"----Mike Clark Jr. feat. The Ying Yang Twins

"Keep On Steppin'" is special in so many ways. For one, it's got three or four music videos running simultaneously because it's so beloved by the dancers. For another, it's by a performer who published his first hit single ("Auntie Outside Tonight") a year ago at the age of eighteen! "Keep On Steppin'" has percussive effects that are nothing short of hypnotic---like a gigantic musical magnet pulling club-goers onto the dance floor. Add a simple but rousing melody delivered in humming verses over the boot-stomping rhythm section and the irrepressible Clark Jr. shouting directions ("We're going to church here y'all!") and you have a young talent on the conveyor belt to stardom.

Listen to Mike Clark Jr. & The Ying Yang Twins singing "Keep On Steppin' Remix" on YouTube.

2. "Pressure"------Big Pokey Bear feat. Boosie

In 2024's "Year In Review I mentioned Pokey hadn't recorded anything last year. Pressure? The song establishes an edgy, in-your-face groove, giving Pokey the perfect space in which to wail and rail, and hooking up with Boosie gives Pokey his best collaborative project since 2017, when he partnered with the late Bishop Bullwinkle on "I Can't Be Faithful". The response from the southern soul faithful has been enthusiastic.

Listen to Pokey Bear and Boosie singing "Pressure" on YouTube.

3. "5 Mo' Minutes"-----Myia B

Myia B has used the success of last year's classic "Stand On Business" to "keep on steppin'" toward the throne of #1 female vocalist in southern soul. "5 Mo' Minutes" does not disappoint.

Listen to Myia B singing "5 Mo' Minutes" on YouTube.

4. "Waste Your Time"----Marcellus The Singer

Exquisite love ballad from the young balladeer whom everyone wants to see in concert. "I might waste your time...But..."Fuck it, take a chance on me."

Listen to Marcellus The Singer singing "Waste Your Time" on YouTube.

5. "I'll Be Your Lollipop"-----Ms. Jody

So slick and so smooth---suspect adjectives in southern soul---but "Lollipop" works to perfection. Chalk it up to the genius of Ms. Jody. Marvin Sease is looking down and smiling from southern soul heaven. See Daddy B. Nice's review of Ms. Jody's new COUGAR ON THE PROWL album.

Listen to Ms. Jody singing "I'll Be Your Lollipop" on YouTube.

6. "Paying My Baby's Bills"----Sir Charles Jones

Yet another superb ballad from Sir Charles Jones' new ELITE KING album. See Daddy B. Nice's five-star album review.

Listen to Sir Charles Jones singing "Paying My Baby's Bills" on YouTube.

7. "Blow The Whistle"-----Big Mel

"Blow The Whistle" has that "Boots On The Ground"/"Keep On Steppin'" energy. From the young gun who brought you "Ain't Got Time.

Listen to Big Mel singing "Blow The Whistle" on YouTube.

8. "Pop That Thang"-----Mike Clark Jr.

Another one from the upwardly-trending Mike Clark Jr. Deejays can play it back to back with #1 single "Keep On Steppin'".

Listen to Mike Clark Jr. singing "Pop That Thang" on YouTube.

9. "Big Bone Girl Party"----Ced Wade feat. Queen Thickums

Ced Wade is the unicorn who did "Ms. Jody" with Ciddy Boi P. This new one is just as odd as the former, and only grows on you. Love that name "Queen Thickums".

Listen to Ced Wade & Queen Thickups singing "Ain't Nobody" on YouTube.

10. "Ain't Nobody"----Old Man MP

No Chaka Khan here, and Old Man MP is a young man. "Ain't nobody thinking 'bout my ex...ain't nobody thinking 'bout my next..."

Listen to Old Man MP singing "Ain't Nobody" on YouTube.

Daddy B. Nice's Top 10 "BREAKING" Southern Soul Singles For. . .

March 2025

1. "Boots On The Ground"----803Fresh

"Boots On The Ground" is the biggest phenomenon to hit southern soul music since King George's "Keep On Rollin'". TikTok is swimming in video shorts of fan-waving line dancers. The YouTube page has notched five million views in the blink of an eye. The artist's upcoming bookings are enviable. A lot of planning---concentrating on brevity, danceability, the roll-out with the new line-dance) obviously went into this record, but you can't calculate this kind of success. I was reading only this morning that King George's financial worth is estimated at 19 million dollars. Fresh isn't there yet, but he's catapulted into that stratosphere, and he must be pinching himself. And even if you've heard "Boots On The Ground" dozens of times and watched clips of people dancing for more hours than you ever bargained, you have to love its barely three-minute, bass-heavy, jug-band simplicity. It makes people happy, and current southern soul is bathing in its effervescent glow.

Listen to 803Fresh singing "Boots On The Ground" on YouTube.

2. "Keep On Steppin'"-----Mike Clark Jr.

Speaking of "boots on the ground," Mike Clark's "Keep On Steppin'" sounds like an entire army on the march. The vaguely military percussive effects---stomp, stomp, stomp, stomp---and hypnotic beat will stun you, and if you've got a dancing bone in your body you'll find it impossible not to jump on the dance floor and keep on steppin'. The fast tempo is a rarity for southern soul, but Mike Clark brings it off with his typically manic high energy.

Listen to Mike Clark Jr. singing "Keep On Steppin'" on YouTube.

3. "Turn Me A Loose"-----Carolyn Staten

Apologies to Tucka, who just released a new single called "Turn Me Loose," but I'm going with this under-promoted and unjustly-overlooked single with the weird "turn-me-a-loose" title by southern soul unicorn Carolyn Staten. At last, the "Nukie Pie" woman finds another song worthy of her very special and unique vocal talent.

Listen to Carolyn Staten singing "Turn Me A Loose" on YouTube.

4. "Lose My Cool"-----Willie Clayton

Fans who are ignoring Willie Clayton because he's getting old or isn't flashy or dropped a few too many cover compilations the last few years are missing out. Willie's in a full-fledged career renaissance of late, dropping good new songs in his inimitable style, and "Lose My Cool's" meshing of violin and lead vocal is a thing of astonishing beauty.

Listen to Willie Clayton singing "Lose My Cool" on YouTube.

5. "Hoedown Showdown"-----Cecily Wilborn

Best Southern Soul Female Vocalist of 2024 Cecily Wilborn continues her magic carpet ride of recording success with this inviting, country-style romp.

Listen to Cecily Wilburn singing "Hoedown Showdown" on YouTube.

6. "Country Man"-----West Love

Another West Love hit single, this one in the vein of Cecily Wilborn's "Southern Man". Entirely original and executed with admirable passion.

Listen to West Love singing "Country Man" on YouTube.

7. "Put A Freak On Me"------T.K. Soul

With a dash of button accordion and a vintage-worthy vocal, T.K. aces the lead-off single from his new TIMELESS album. See Daddy B. Nice's four-star album review.

Listen to T.K. Soul singing "Put A Freak On Me" on YouTube.

8. "Whole Lotta Country"------Sonny Boi feat. Jeter Jones

"Whole Lotta Country" takes a few listens to establish it's legit, then clings to your soul like morning pancakes in your stomach. Jeter's verse has a good line: (she said) "Put that country boy in me." No YouTube yet.

9. "Love My Southern Soul"-----Cat Daddy feat. Jeter Jones

One of those lifting-up-southern-soul legacy tunes with nods to all the southern soul greats past and current. Just the thing we southern-soulers crave.

Listen to Catt Daddy and Jeter Jones singing "Love My Southern Soul" on YouTube.

10. "Soul Train Line"-----Tee Doe Brown

New artist in the Mike Clark Jr. vein takes on an old topic I didn't think anyone even remembered (Soul Train) and executes really well. Slip on those super high heels and bell bottoms and get out on the floor.

Listen to Tee Doe Brown singing "Soul Train Line" on YouTube.

Daddy B. Nice's Top 10 "BREAKING" Southern Soul Singles For. . .

February 2025

1. "Unbelievable"----King George feat. Snoop Dogg

There were rumors two years ago of King George signing a deal with Death Row Records. Now we know what it was all about. "Unbelievable" is featured on the Snoop Dogg-hosted Death Row Revue, a sampler of R&B, hip-hop and southern soul including "Sooner Or Later" by Tonio Armani. King George's "Unbelievable," however, is the only track showcasing a collaboration with the world's most iconic rapper. The mix is overly busy by southern soul standards but onetime hip-hopper George carries the melody line with his usual self-assurance, sounding fresh and rejuvenated throughout the instrumental headwinds and Snoop Dogg monologues. For southern soul, this is some kind of milestone.

Listen to King George and Snoop Dogg singing "Unbelievable" on YouTube.

2. "Where I Belong"------Sir Charles Jones

Just when you think Charles may not be able to go deep anymore, he goes deeper. Musically gorgeous and intellectually sincere---right up there with "Friday," "Guilty" and "Anybody Lonely?" in heart and depth---"Where I Belong" will not only capture new fans but remind long-timers of why Charles is called "the King of Southern Soul" .

Listen to Sir Charles Jones singing "Where I Belong" on YouTube.

3. "Juke Joint Love"-----Simply Wayne

"Juke Joint Love" was recorded two years ago, yet its release wasn't like the proverbial tree falling in the middle of a dense forest. Two million people have viewed it on YouTube. Nevertheless, Simply Wayne is promoting it anew, and thank goodness for that. An unremitting club jam with a vocal intensity as blistering as a day laborer's hands, "Juke Joint Love" deserves to be on deejay's southern soul charts.

Listen to Simply Wayne singing "Juke Joint Love" on YouTube.

4. "Can't Run From Love"-----Jeter Jones feat. Myia B

2024 Best Male Vocalist Jeter Jones teams up with "Stand On Business" sensation Myia B on a mid-tempo stand-out from his new My Fans Only album. See Daddy B. Nice's 5-Star Album Review.

Listen to Jeter Jones & Myia B singing "Can't Run From Love" on YouTube.

5. "Boots On The Ground"-----803Fresh

If you're a TikTokker or YouTuber, you already know this fun-loving, fan-waving jam arrives as a deliriously successful, line-dancing sensation. Everybody's dancing to it and posting videos. What other genre makes even its toddlers feel so good?

Listen to 803Fresh singing "Boots On The Ground" on YouTube.

6. "Flow Like A River"-----Sir Charles Jones

Another great track from Sir Charles' new The Elite King album. Read Daddy B. Nice's 5-Star Album Review.

Listen to Sir Charles singing "Flow Like A River" on YouTube.

7. "If You Love Southern Soul"-----Teeza

One of those novelty songs that chronicles our favorite southern soul heroes and heroines.

Listen to Teeza singing "If You Love Southern Soul" on YouTube.

8. "Rodeo Style"-----Avail Hollywood

Listen to Avail Hollywood singing "Rodeo Style" on YouTube.

9. "Girl I Like Your Booty"-----O.C. Soul feat. Boogaloo Jones

This artist is getting better with every outing.

Listen to O.C. Soul singing "Girl I Like Your Booty" on YouTube.

10. "Gotta Have You"-----Memphis Jackson

No YouTube yet.

Daddy B. Nice's Top 10 "BREAKING" Southern Soul Singles For. . .

January 2025

1. "Feel So Good"----O.B. Buchana

The supreme irony of this #1-ranked, O.B. anthem with its anchor-strong chorus is that it will instantly remind the ten million fans of the old-man-in-the-bar-conversation in "Take Heed" by young southern soul star Young Guy when in fact, if there had been no past quarter-century of southern soul singing by O.B. Buchana, there would be no Young Guy! Then again, with the indignities that growing older cast upon us all, it's just as possible O.B. did imitate the format of "Take Heed" as the winning path to a hit single. In any case, the legend---the great O.B. Buchana---has his first and well-deserved #1 record in years.

Listen to O.B. Buchana singing "Feel So Good" on YouTube.

2. "Nail In The Middle"----Jeter Jones

"Song" is too pedestrian a term for this Jeter Jones melodic jewel. Call it an "aria"---an aria from "deep in the woods" where all you see is "bushes and squirrels," with a shotgun house out of "Black Snake Moan" or "The Color Purple". From Jeter's new MY FANS ONLY album. See Daddy B. Nice's 5-Star Album Review.

Listen to Jeter Jones singing "Nail In The Middle (Of a Block Of Wood)" on YouTube.

3. "Thin Line Remix"----Marcellus The Singer

Not only does Marcellus hit this cover version of The Persuader's classic ballad out of the proverbial park. It dovetails perfectly with his nineteen-million-viewed, signature song, "Toxic Love," lyrical segments of which he pieces into it.

Listen to Marcellus The Singer singing "Thin Line Remix" on YouTube.

4. "Changed Man"----Calvin Richardson

Calvin Richardson in Daddy B. Nice's Top 10? They said it couldn't happen! But the differences have always boiled down to a matter of artistic emphasis. Does the song and its culture come first (as in southern soul)? Or does the performance and technique of the artist come first (urban r&b, not to mention jazz, white blues and many other "national" genres)? Here Calvin bridges the gap in spectacular fashion, rendering the song with the passion and believability of a southern soul singer.

Listen to Calvin Richardson singing "Changed Man" on YouTube.

5. "Stay At Home"----Jay Morris Group

More Jay Morris Group musing on the incidentals of life, in this case someone who wants to come but also wants to bring everyone down.

Listen to the Jay Morris Group singing "Stay At Home" on YouTube.

6. "Keep My Man"----Ashley Ave

Touching and hooky, with a cradle-rocking tempo and lyrics that dispense more wisdom than anyone this young is normally entitled to.

Listen to Ashley Ave singing "I Ran A Good Man Away" on YouTube.

7. "Another Round"----Jeter Jones

"Hold up your cup," Jeter's "bought another round." Somber in tone, soldierly (keep on truckin') in bearing. Another robust track from Jones' new collection, My Fans Only.

Listen to Jeter Jones singing "Another Round" on YouTube.

8. "Hell On My Hands"----J'Cenae

"When he gets through with me / I can't even walk..." A new and tasty appetizer from J'Cenae's upcoming album, "The Evolution of J'Cenae".

Listen to J'Cenae singing "Hell On My Hands" on YouTube.

9. "Shake Your Rump"----Jumpin' Joe

Hey, old-schoolers, this is Joe Phillips from The Winstons. Light, humorous, humble---what's not to like?

Listen to Jumpin' Joe singing "Shake Your Rump" on YouTube.

10. "Shoot My Shot"----J-Wonn

You know J-Wonn, he's always out there trolling for those ladies. This one's as dairy-queen smooth as they come.

Listen to J-Wonn singing "Shoot My Shot" on YouTube.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION!!!!

Daddy B. Nice's Top 10 "BREAKING" Southern Soul Singles For. . .

July 2025

1."Toe Up"----Myia B

I came to this song from Kang803, the behind-the-scenes maestro of the South Carolina, 803-area-code vanguard (King George, 803Fresh, Charmeka Joquelle, etc.) that's sent southern soul hurtling into the viral stratosphere. The pedal-steel guitar-playing producer had just dropped his first EP recording project, New School Blues, and while researching it I stumbled across Myia's "Toe Up," thinking this was the culmination of everything last year's "Stand On Business" promised. Not only was "Stand On Business" an Honorable Mention for Best Mid-Tempo Song of 2024. It was the winner of Daddy B. Nice's "Best Out-Of-Left-Field Song" of the year. How surprised I was, then, to discover that, like her substantial gospel and r&b work, "Toe Up" was actually produced and recorded before Myia B became famous with "Stand On Business". And bringing this soulful, steel guitar-laced anthem full circle, Charmeka Joquelle---none other than the CharMeka of King George's mythically elegant "Grown Man"---composed it and and sings accompaniment.

Listen to Myia B and Charmeka Joquelle singing "Toe Up" on YouTube.

2. "Dangerous / Wetter"----Shawn Walka Mash-Up feat. Morgan Wallen, Erika Shevon & Twista

The first couple of times I heard it, I didn't like it. By the third time, I was hopelessly addicted. The thousands of comments on its original YouTube video with 13 million views (there are more videos with additional millions) cry out with the the public's gratitude---not to mention wishes it could be bought retail. The "Wetter" segments were originally recorded with the rapping done by Twista. And it was when I began to see the insertion of country artist Morgan Wallen as a rapper that the lights went on and I went limp with regard for the mash-up's genius. Read more about Wallen, country/southern soul cross-over and more in Daddy B. Nice's Morgan Wallen guide.

Listen to Morgan Wallen, Erika Shivon and Twista singing "Dangerous / Wetter" on YouTube.

3. "285"-----Poka Jones

Poka Jones isn't getting the respect he's due for "285". This is one of those young guys who's learning how to add authenticity, texture and depth to his efforts. "285" is a great driving tune that showcases his strength---a charismatic, uniquely lower-scale voice.

Listen to Poka Jones singing "285" on YouTube.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION... UNDER CONSTANT REVISION....