Fresh on my mind this morning is the return of Will Smith the musical landscape.

I first saw his new video for the song "Switch" on MTV, and then turned on "Today" on NBC only to see Smith performing the same song live.

As I watched Smith I remembered that Smith was a rapper/performer first, and an actor second.

It's difficult to believe because Smith is one of the few people who have been extremely successful at both.

Sure, others have tried - Jennifer Lopez, Madonna, Ice Cube - but none have been as widely popular in both movies and music as Smith.

Sugarland on Leno
A few years back, I was introduced to a singer named Jennifer Nettles. The Georgia-based singer has one of the most soulful voices I've heard in years.

Her solo band would often play in the Carolinas, and was worth a drive to Charlotte to see.

Not too long ago, Nettles formed a country band named, Sugarland.

I'll admit I haven't heard much of them, but was surprised to hear that they'll be performing on the "Tonight Show with Jay Leno" tonight. They're also signed to Mercury Records.

Of all the unsigned acts I've seen over the years, Nettles was on the top of my "deserves a record deal list."

I'm sad to see that it's not with her solo band - those albums are amazing - but glad to see she got there one way or the other.

Dinosaur Jr. returns
The original lineup of modern rock act Dinosaur Jr. will return to television on April 15 on "The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson" on CBS.

The band, featuring J Mascis, Lou Barlow and Murph, will be performing its first shows since 1989.

Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at March 30, 2005 9:24 AM

Comments

hey, Jeff -- nice blog.

about Switch and Will Smith in general:

the reason he's succeeded in many media where J.Lo, Madonna and Ice Cube have had less success: he's different from them in important ways.

first, he's likeable, and second, HE'S TALENTED!

Posted by: mike clark at March 30, 2005 12:11 PM