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The Story behind Cynthia Basinet’s Rendition of “Santa Baby”

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The Story behind Cynthia Basinet’s Rendition of “Santa Baby”

It’s highly likely that you’ve come across the tantalizing carol “Santa Baby” and marveled at such blissful singing that tugs at your heartstrings…perhaps even wondered when Marilyn Monroe got to release her rendition of Joan Javits, Phillip Springer, and Eartha Kitt’s 1953 classic. And like many others, what you did not know was that you were listening to the sweet-sounding rendition of the vocal prowess of Cynthia Basinet. This encapsulates the story that has been Basinet’s rendition so far, a cover that, in its own right, has gone on to achieve considerable success, amass millions of streams, and receive airplay the world over, especially when the festive season comes calling. Everybody wants a piece of that “Santa Baby” as they envision him hurrying down the chimney.

And as much as she is fluttered by being likened to an iconic actress of our time, Marilyn Monroe, she wouldn’t have minded being recognized for her own powerful voice, jazzy inflection, and charismatic tone that make this jam leave a lasting impression on anyone who comes into close contact with it.

When she recorded this track back in 1997, it was actually as a Christmas gift, contrary to the widespread belief that it was a birthday gift for Jack Nicholson, she did not anticipate the global resonance that really awaited her own innocent and flavorful rendition. Suffice to say, during an era when the internet was not as advanced as it is today, getting recognized for it was a major stumbling block, and it was not long before the track was copyrighted and sold under pretense, making her lose out on all royalties from the song.

This story is told in detail in the podcast “Discovering Truth featuring Cynthia Basinet: The Truth about Santa Baby.” The link for the same can be found on all her social media platforms and is worth listening to.

Amidst all this confusion and turbulence, nothing takes away from the sweetness of this beautiful jam. I mean, I’ve been listening to it since November, and every time I play it, it feels like Christmas.

This is such a sensational carol that sees such an incredibly gifted vocalist breathe life with her tasty, strong vocals, gliding through the smooth and mellow jazz melodies with subtle confidence, and transporting a listener into her world, where irresistible festive emotions run high. It’s a place that you don’t wish to leave anytime soon.

Unlike the many acclaimed artists who have covered the track after Cynthia, such as RuPaul, Taylor Swift, Kylie Minogue, and Ariana Grande, Basinet’s heartwarming and soul-stirring rendition was actually recorded after only Madonna’s earlier version, famously known as the ‘Betty Boop’ version. It’s important to acknowledge that Basinet’s rendition deserves recognition not because people mistake it for Monroe’s voice, but because listeners are genuinely enchanted by what they hear and are eager to discover the artist behind that stunning voice!

The numbers speak for themselves; this jam already has over 1 million streams on Spotify alone and has enjoyed global listenership.

This is what vocal talent feels like—something you listen to once and can’t get enough of. Something that makes your heart full and stamps an indelible imprint on you. That something is Cynthia’s “Santa Baby.”

This tune is further proof of her jazz music virtuosity, and the way she packs such an appropriate punch with her vocal dexterity deserves to be hailed more and compared less!

If you haven’t yet, you’re likely eager to discover this masterpiece for yourself. Follow the link below and relish!

To connect more with Cynthia Basinet, her music, and her podcast, “The World According to Cynthia”, follow her on Instagram.

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After a Two-Year Hiatus, Detroit’s Own Shon Kash Makes a Triumphant Return With a Deeply Personal and Emotionally Charged Project Themed “Forever Cursed”

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After a Two-Year Hiatus, Detroit’s Own Shon Kash Makes a Triumphant Return With a Deeply Personal and Emotionally Charged Project Themed “Forever Cursed”

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After a two-year hiatus spent grappling with profound personal losses, including those of his uncle and grandma, two significant figures who helped shape his life, Detroit’s rapper and artist Shon Kash returns with the best possible tribute and ode to his lost loved ones, chronicling deeply personal and heartfelt tales of growing up from nothing and trying to navigate and make a mark for yourself in an environment that was not very suitable for growth—“FOREVER CURSED” is a project that encapsulates Shon Kash’s pain, resilience, and unbreakable spirit with lyrics that are as heartfelt as they are hard-hitting. Take a seat because this 12-track project is not just an album—it is a gripping memoir set to beats.

At the core of this project is an unfiltered look at grief, survival, and gratitude. The title track, “Forever Cursed” sets the tone with piercing lyricism that paints a vivid picture of the realities of growing up in Detroit’s unforgiving streets where there are no handouts and it’s every man for himself. The lyrics depict what it is like to grow up in poverty, each day evading venom from snakes, swimming through sharks; metaphorically capturing a reality akin to being raised by the wolves and the toughness that requires. Showcasing his lyrical strengths and unmatched knack for wordplay, Shon Kash is as earnest as he is captivating.

“Forever Tankful’s” essence is encapsulated by those powerful hooks—“Thankful for today, because we don’t know about tomorrow,” resonating as both a cautionary reflection and a daily mantra, reinforcing the album’s central theme of appreciating life despite its hardships. Lines like “Cutting corners trying to corner us” are a case example of top-tier wordplay, depicting a stark yet clever relentless struggle to escape life’s traps. This jam is a soulful declaration of appreciation for each moment amidst the chaos.

“Forever Down” is a gut-wrenching track that encapsulates the harrowing weight of watching loved ones succumb to crime and addiction and the loss this brings along with it. His melancholic words are captured by lines that depict the circles getting smaller and carrying around that smile as a disguise. The haunting question “Is it depression or anxiety” poignantly captures the mental battles that often remain unspoken in communities plagued by violence and loss. The backing female vocals inject that R&B syndrome that further elevates the track’s emotional depth.

The album’s thematic depth is further explored in “Forever Us,” another standout collaboration with a phenomenally talented female emcee. Shon flexes his lyrical prowess with clever double entendres like “reality checks don’t bounce,” which depict the daunting reality of growing up in a poverty-stricken hood where bills come before a check and only the strong survive. Also, this track is a testament to resilience and the ability to thrive under pressure, embodying the very essence of turning pain into power.

The emotional weight of the album culminates in its closing track, “Forever After”—a touching tribute to Shon Kash’s late uncle Curse and grandmother. Through vivid storytelling, he reminisces about late-night drives and heartfelt conversations with his uncle, who instilled in him the importance of education and ambition. The song also serves as a letter of gratitude to his grandmother, who provided him with spiritual guidance and unwavering support in a world where it’s all too easy to lose oneself.

With “FOREVER CURSED,” Shon Kash doesn’t just return to the rap game—he reclaims his voice. This album is an unfiltered reflection of pain, love, and perseverance, masterfully woven into powerful storytelling and sharp lyricism. For anyone who appreciates hip-hop that comes from an authentic place of raw emotion and lived experience, “FOREVER CURSED” is not just an album—it’s an experience.

Support Shon on his creative endeavors by streaming and purchasing this digital album, sharing it, and adding the tracks you dig most to your favorite playlist.

LISTEN HERE

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Fast-rising hip-hop artist and songwriter Moo-You delivers a personal and empowering anthem dubbed “Nothing.”

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Fast-rising hip-hop artist and songwriter Moo-You delivers a personal and empowering anthem dubbed “Nothing.”

Growing up in Houston, Texas a hotbed of multiple cultural and artistic influences impacted Moo-You positively seeing that he had his eyes set on becoming a musician who would appeal to diverse audiences. His coming up is nothing short of inspiring and phenomenal, characterized by his own relentless dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering discipline that has allowed him to concentrate on being better at every turn, making the kind of music that is not only entertaining but also has replay value. If you admire the kind of music that has been drenched in both authenticity and sincerity, you couldn’t have picked a better time to get acquainted with the lyrical maestro that is Moo-You.

“Nothing” is so much more than just a catchy and infectious hip-hop anthem; it is Moo-You’s personal story of coming up packaged lyrically and in a way that allows a listener to connect with their own life’s journey.

His vivid lyrics and verses encapsulate his ambitious artistic journey—starting from absolutely nothing and forging his own path, backed by his own relentless hard work, discipline, faith, and above all, unfaltering dedication to his musical passion.

“Nothing” is an ode to life’s journey and trusting the process; going all in and making it on your own without no handouts or expecting anything from anyone because that right there can be a recipe for failure!

His flow and delivery is nothing short of impeccable—laid-back, confident, and assertive, his unique vocals slinking with surgical precision with the beats to create this memorable cadence that makes the jam an unforgettable one.

“Nothing” is as empowering and motivating as it is infectious and entertaining; the very signature ethos Moo-You seeks to maintain with his music.

“Nothing” is a timely reminder that you can go on to win even when the odds have been stacked against you; even when everyone around you is doubting and treating you like you are ‘nothing!’

LISTEN HERE

This is a great addition to any hip-hop playlist and an inspiring anthem meant to encourage you on your own goal-chasing journey…you’ve got to keep pushing and moving. Just never stop!

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Neoclassical Music Composer Michele Nobler Envelops Us in a Warm, Beautiful Embrace With His Latest Release “Shore Whispers.”

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Neoclassical Music Composer Michele Nobler Envelops Us in a Warm, Beautiful Embrace With His Latest Release "Shore Whispers."

Imagine the mere fusion of time and space—where the elegance of neoclassical piano meets the vastness of ambient soundscapes, where the grandeur of the organ transforms into something both ethereal and modern. It is the sort of music that breathes, expanding and contracting, just like a living entity, each note carrying the weight of introspection, nostalgia, and quiet revelation. Now imagine no more because this is the sonic offering of one neoclassical piano composer Michele Nobler, based in the Marche region, an Italian region along the Adriatic Sea. As a music composer and passionate photographer, his artistry mirrors moving images, transforming them into melodies with universal appeal.

How beautiful can his kind of music be? I mean, his latest release Shore Whispers captures the melodic whispers of the shore as much as the scenic beauty of French coastal towns and spots, showcasing a profound sense of stillness in the compositions and yet, they are not static. The melodies here move like ripples across water, unfolding with a delicate patience that allows the listener to drift between the past and the present.

His deft fingerprints exude a warm comfort, touching the listener deep in their heart and soul; it is almost impossible to put these feelings into words. The minimalistic and crystalline piano serves as the emotional core—whispering rather than declaring, inviting rather than demanding. It is the language of longing, of fleeting moments captured in sound.

Shore Whispers consists of 14 tracks with a runtime of 35 minutes and 1 second. It is fascinating how the music deeply immerses you to the point where you lose track of time, and by the time the project is over, you feel like time has eluded you… it feels like half the time has passed because of just how comforting, tranquil, and ethereally beautiful the melodies are.

“Cap Gris Nez” captures the warm, friendly, and welcoming demeanor of this town located in Cote d’Opale in the French department of Pas-de-Calais, in Northern France. The piano melodies mirror the beautiful shores in the distance that are just as inviting as its people. The gentle melodies speak directly to the soul, exuding a timeless feeling that is guaranteed to stay with you even after the sweet, comforting tones are no more.

“Isola Luce Del Mare” captures the light of the sea, maybe at night—something that is indescribably beautiful. The touchingly beautiful piano exudes this warm, pulsing melodic presence, evoking a sacred-like feeling. It is as if Michele Nobler puts you right in that specific moment—a moment of rare, pristine beauty to relish.

“Making Bread” feels exactly like art and is reminiscent of a close, intimate setting with people you love and value dearly. The mellifluent piano melodies offer you an escape into a world of your own making… As long as you can imagine it, the music transports you right there!

And through it all, he also manages to capture the essence of romantic imagination with the gentle “Kisses on Tiptoe” and the livelier “Kisses on Tiptoe (Bright Version).” I mean, what a project!

What more can a listener possibly want?

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