R&B Superstar - The Ladies Edition feat. Marques Houston

As part of a ‘Made In the 90’s’ sideshow, R&B singer, rapper and actor Marques Houston played at Metro City, Northbridge for R&B Superstar. Coming to us straight from Los Angeles, California, his first ever Australian show was alongside DJ Rampage.

Unfortunately though, the long wait for the club show saw the crowd becoming tired and irritated. People that were actively dancing throughout the night had gone to find a seat or were just standing around, restlessly. This left a sense of aggression in the air which kept the bouncers busy. The atmosphere was noticeably dimmer and it was evident that the star of the show had missed the prime time for a great performance.

Finally, at just gone 1am the DJ announced that everyone had to make some noise for Marques Houston. There was an abysmal cheer, and the DJ announced, “You gonna have to do better than that!” It was a good effort for an audience that had been waiting three or four hours.

Dressed in a black jacket, jeans and a red cap, Marques Houston came to the stage singing “Pop That Booty”. Unfortunately, due to technical difficulties which involved a backing CD that continued to skip, Marques performed the song twice before inviting ladies from the crowd onto the stage, whilst his DJ attempted to fix the problem. He also gave them the chance to have their own moment and dance, as he’d only been on stage for five minutes. His fans wanted to hear him sing - not watch the girls they were just standing next to.

The set list continued with “Favorite Girl”, which drew a big cheer from the crowd. At one point there was loud feedback from the microphone and this ineptly happened several times again. The next song was “Pullin’ On Her Hair”. Vocally, Marques Houston is undeniably a great singer. It was unfortunate that he didn’t really demonstrate this with any of the songs he performed, nor did he show off any of his dancing.

The next song was “Swag Sex” (from his new album Mattress Music) however he did not finish the entire number. After announcing he wanted everyone’s attention before he “got outta here”, he sang “Clubbin’”. As if we didn’t get the memo that the show was already over, the jacket he previously had taken off was put back on. Bizarrely, he only pulled up one of the sleeves leaving the rest of the jacket just hanging from his right arm and he performed his last song in literally, an awkward fashion. As a former member of Immature/IMX, with five solo albums not to mention feature films and TV shows under his belt, this was very disappointing.

In total, Marques Houston played approximately four and a half songs and his entire set lasted about 25 minutes, leaving many attendees disappointed that many of his classic tunes were never performed. With the technical difficulties, an accapella performance of his slower tunes like "Sex With You" and "Closer" would have at least left the crowd more satisfied.

At the end of the show Marques took some time to pose for photos with fans. He was friendly and welcoming to say the least. True fans probably won’t be discouraged by this mediocre performance, however if Marques Houston doesn’t pick up his game for the rest of the tour and fix the technical issues that proved hazardous on Friday night, he’ll have Australia wishing he just stayed in the 90s.

Watch The Throne

Two kings of hip-hop, Kanye West and Jay Z have consolidated their position as music royalty in their latest masterpiece they are calling Watch The Throne.

Anyone who recently went to the U2 gig with Jay Z last December may have heard rumors that Kayne West was travelling alongside Jay in order to record this album. These rumors were totally accurate, and in order to accommodate both of their schedules Kanye and Jay recorded in Australia, as well as Europe and the United States. A mini-documentary about the making of the album with behind-the scenes can be found online here.

Guest performers on the album include Frank Ocean and Beyonce.

Pre-order the deluxe digital edition on iTunes. Watch The Throne is released in-stores 12 August 2011.

Photo: Rap Dose

UPCOMING PERTH EVENTS 2011

The QUEEN is COMING

Where: Burswood Dome

When: Tuesday 18 October

The one and only Janet Jackson will be hitting Australian shores this October. Pre-sale tickets have already sold out so be sure to grab tickets when they go on sale.

Although originally planned to be a 35-city tour selected by her fans, overwhelming demands have extended the tour with Australian shows. Janet Jackson says that she plans to perform in venues that provide intimate settings, and be “up close and personal” with her fans. This is an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see a Jackson perform in the flesh, so undoubtedly will be an unforgettable experience.

Tickets are available from www.janetjackson.com and www.ticketek.com.au

Source: Janet Jackson

WINTERBEATZ

Where: Challenge Stadium

When: Wednesday 17 August

The artists for this years Winterbeatz need no introduction. Major US acts 50 Cent, Lil Kim, Mario and Fabolous are headlining the urban tour all over Australia. Fiddy is also bringing along G-Unit members Tony Yayo and Lloyd Banks. Come and party like it's yo' birthday!

Head over to www.winterbeatz.com.au to secure your tickets because they won’t last long!

ONE TWELVE & HORACE BROWN

Where: Metro City

When: Friday 5 August

R&B Superstar and On Point Promotions have pulled some incredible performers for the next two weeks at Metro City, Northbridge. The “Made in the 90s” show on features R&B group 112 and singer Horace Brown. The Grammy-award winning quartet 112 had major success with songs such as “Peaches & Cream” and “Only You”. They won a Grammy for their work with Puff Daddy and Faith Evans on the hit “I’ll Be Missing You”. Singer Horace Brown is known for his notorious song “Taste of Your Love”. His self-titled album also featured Puff Daddy and Faith Evans. Special offer tickets are currently available, only $40 for BOTH shows, both 112/Horace Brown next week AND Marques Houston this Friday. Pick them up at www.moshtix.com.au.

Photo: RNBHaven

MARQUES HOUSTON

Where: Metro City

When: Friday 29 July

Marques Houston has recently released his fifth studio album, Mattress Music. His most popular songs from his extensive career include “Circle”, “Sex Wit You” and “Naked”. As a former member of the R&B band Immature/Imx, he has since been a successful singer, rapper and actor. Those not familiar with his music will recognise him as the lead in the 2004 dance film You Got Served and as the iconic “Roger” from Nickelodeon’s Sister Sister. Tickets are $25 from Moshtix (or see above for special double ticket offer.) For more information go to www.metrocity.com.au or www.onpointpromotions.com.au

Source: Metro City

Photo: Fresh-Grind

Review: Brian McKnight and Dwele

On June 23, 2011, R&B legend and musical extraordinaire, Brian McKnight, performed at The Astor Theatre in Mount Lawley, just outside the city of Perth, to a small intimate crowd.

DJ Skooby, known as the People’s DJ and four-time running “Perth’s Urban/R&B DJ”, was the headline DJ for this event. As the seats filled up, DJ Skooby played smooth tunes and slow jams leading up to the performances of Brian McKnight and Dwele.

Before Brian’s thrilling performance, Dwele took the stage with his DJ and backup singers. He sang songs both old and new from his album, “W.ants W.orld W.omen”, including his new single, “What’s Not To Love”. While he was on stage, he was both entertaining and humorous, as between songs he interacted with his audience with anecdotes and jokes. Not only did he perform on stage, but he also made his way around the crowd. He chose songs to sing directed to the female fans, such as “Cheatin” and “Let Your Hair Down”. He gave a wonderful performance, whilst not stealing the show from Brian. As he left the stage, he left the crowd excitedly waiting on Brian’s entrance.

Brian McKnight, an artist who has been performing for nearly 20 years and has sold millions of records, gave a jaw-dropping performance, which left loyal fans in awe. He entered the stage solo, and played each song without a band or DJ, as he played the piano, guitar and electric piano. He gave an interactive performance as he took the audience through phases of his life, from a young boy to adulthood, and the music he learnt to play on various instruments. Although he showed his beautiful vocals with each song, he also showed another side to him, as he entertained and charmed the dedicated fans. He sang some of his most popular songs, such as, “Anytime”, “One Last Cry”, “Back At One” and “All Night Long”. He showcased his musical skills, which made each performance even more magical.

Both artists gave intimate and entertaining performances, which would never be forgotten by the audience that attended the concert. Brian McKnight’s “Just Me” and Dwele’s “W.ants W.orld W.omen” are available now.

The Secrets Out Magazine has gone digital!

Welcome to The Secret’s Out Magazine 2.0. In a short period of just 24 months, The Secret’s Out Magazine published 12 popular issues that secured its spot as the premium source for the Perth urban industry. With a brand new batch of editors, we’ve decided to keep in touch on the regular – with the magazine’s online blog. Not only can we keep you instantly updated on the international‘urban’ scene, we are here to bring you the latest news in music, fashion, technology and culture all over the West Coast. You’d watch this space if you knew what was good for you!

Introducing your new editors…

Music & Events
Jazzy

Jazzy is dedicated to keeping up-to-date on the urban entertainment industry. As a freelance journalist, she keeps her ears on the street for events that will hit Western Australian shores. When she isn’t reviewing concerts, she will be listening out for the latest R&B/rap tracks, hip hop gossip and taking happy snaps along the way. Not only is she here to promote the international urban scene, she’s always keen to spread the word about local urban acts that Perth has to offer.

Fashion & Culture
Tegan

Tegan will be informing you about sales in which you can purchases the hottest in urban fashion, both in-store and online. She will also be writing feature articles on how to wear amazing urban outfits that all the celebrities are wearing, but for cheaper! If you have request of article topics or inneed of any fashion advice, send her a message through her Facebook, click here. Enjoy and stay stylish!

Technology & Games
DJ PROFI

EB Games Store Manager by day, DJ and urban blogger by night, Frank Macri’s, (aka DJ PROFI) interests and experience within the entertainment industry spans widely.

Frank will be bringing you thebest of both worlds as the games and technology editor. Check this space for all the information you need to know about the best and upcoming games around, as well as reviewsand news on upcoming DJ and music equipment.