Those of you that celebrate Independence Day in the USA will have more than one reason to look forward to. After the return of Ryan Leslie’s missing personal items, his third mainstream album, Les Is More, will be released on July 4, 2011.

No official word on what the first single will be but a song he premiered in Paris, “Beautiful Lie,” is the main candidate. Take a listen after…

*EXPLODES* FINALLY! The triumphant and oversaturated 3rd single from Kanye West’s My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy is here. West is assisted by 11 of the industry’s most recognized. Yeap, West has Rihanna, John Legend, The-Dream, Ryan Leslie, Tony Williams, Charlie Wilson, Elly Jackson, Alicia Keys, Fergie, KiD CuDi and Elton John are all on this one.

Loved this song from the messy snippet that only featured Drake a month or two ago and to hear the drums in clearer quality gives us an overwhelming feeling of greatness. There is too much going on in this song but y’know what it doesn’t matter because the only thing we’re being drowned in is a feeling of POWER.

Download audio file (Kanye-West-All-Of-the-Lights-feat.-John-Legend-The-Dream-Ryan-Leslie-Tony-Williams-Charlie-Wilson-Elly-Jackson-Alicia-Keys-Fergie-KiD-CuDi-Rihanna-and-Elton-John-thecsperspective.com.mp3)

Based on the handful of features in Kanye West’s G.O.O.D. Friday releases it was no surprise when news broke of West collaborating with 11 people for his third single. “All Of the Lights” which is the third single from My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, out November 22, will feature:

Rihanna, Alicia Keys, Elton John, Fergie, John Legend, The-Dream, Tony Williams, KiD CuDi, Charlie Wilson, Ryan Leslie, and La Roux’s Elly Jackson. [SOURCE]

With so many people on one track, West had to truncate each of the verses for the “completely seamless and completely ghetto as f**k” single. We only have to wait until Saturday 8pm EST to hear the single. It will be played during the premiere of Kanye West’s 30-minute “Runaway” video which will air simultaneously across MTV, VH1 and BET.

Debonair singer and songwriter, Ryan Leslie, will be releasing his third studio album, Les Is More, in 2011 and recently he took the time with Vibe Magazine to speak about the upcoming project:

“I’ve been doing a lot more writing from the piano in terms of the chords structure, and I’ve also been searching for the right sound.” [SOURCE]

Leslie’s “introspective” new LP will feature a song entitled “The Glory,” a song he performed over the summer. We look forward to this new project and until then we play a fave from him, “Gibberish.”

Lloyd Banks’ next project is Hunger For More 2 and is stated as containing more than a handful of features. Don’t know how good of a thing it is if he wants to be the highlight of the album. Well the G-Unit and the G.O.O.D. Music forces unite (Kanye West, Ryan Leslie, Swizz Beatz and Fabolous) on the first single from the album entitled “Start It Up.”

The Cardiak-produced track sounds like it could be a G.O.O.D. Friday release or just a plain spin-off from West’s weekly tradition. Lloyd Banks is a great rapper and definitely hold his own on his own track but a great deal of you probably only rushed to listen to this because of the other features.

Download audio file (Lloyd-Banks-Start-It-Up-feat.-Kanye-West-Fabolous-Ryan-Leslie-Swizz-Beatz-thecsperspective.com.mp3)

Literally speaking, Kanye West went through with putting a halt on G.O.O.D. Friday. However, he still did deliver new music this morning, so I guess you can call today G.O.O.D. Saturday. The latest to be released is “Christian Dior Denim Flow.” As usual the song is another dynamic one from West with beat switch ups and a handful of features including KiD CuDi, Pusha T, John Legend, Ryan Leslie and Lloyd Banks.

Download audio file (Christian-Dior-Denim-Flow.mp3)

Also, do not forget to watch Kanye West make his return to the SNL (Saturday Night Live) stage tonight. He is set to perform “Power” and “Runaway” as well as appear in a sketch. View the painting version of the “Runaway” artwork after…

Lady GaGa who entered the scene in 2008 and set it on fire in 2009 is wasting no time with another album. She sat down with MTV News last month where she revealed she wants a “new sonic energy & lyrical style” on her next studio effort:

“Well, I’m going to write new music … that’s the beauty of writing your own music — you don’t have to rely on songwriters and producers to write hit songs for you,” she told MTV News. “So I’m going to write a new album and I’m going to have new ideas.”

“I find The Fame Monster to be completely different than The Fame,” she added. “I’ve evolved, but artists should evolve. In the ’70s and the ’60s, artists evolved all the time — from album to album the music was changing, the feeling was changing, the artists seemed almost entirely different than who they were five or six years before.” [SOURCE]

GaGa makes good, even great music but for heaven’s sake, don’t spoil it by overexposure.

Whilst Lady GaGa may be releasing a new album to remain at the top, the very talented Ryan Leslie is constantly churning out the records to build some momentum. His recent album, Transition, has only sold 15,000 copies but most of that is due to the fact that only people who are into music blogs would really know about his album.

Although he may be releasing his third album, Les Is More, at the end of this year, Transition will get the re-release treatment. The re-release will include new music and a Bonus DVD documenting the making of the album. [SOURCE 1] [SOURCE 2]

Didn’t we mention how we appreciate artists who take long breaks and then return, just the other day. Then again the artists who do that are the ones who were established in the late 90′s/early 00′s; a whole different era. But we understand Ryan Leslie’s perseverance; the guy is fighting for his mainstream recognition. Lady GaGa, we can almost understand her too; even though she accumulated a huge fan base she understands that one or two years of success does not make a pop act a star, icon or legend. So she probably wants to cement herself… GaGa is always being compared to Madonna but the question is, “Can Lady GaGa develop a long and consistent career like Madge?”

Okay, you have Rihanna’s Rated R which is probably the most anticipated album this quarter of the year and then you look at the other end of the spectrum then there’s Leslie’s Transition. It just seems that absolutely no one is interested in this album but that’s to be expected when you’re dealing with a mature and classy guy. Leslie is talented and it shows from the preview clips. The music is signature R. Les; lots of mid-tempos, keyboards and synths. If you haven’t picked up his debut album yet, go out an get Ryan Leslie. PRE-ORDER HERE.

PREVIEW HERE

Was that Amerie? I think this is the first Amerie album that we like as a whole. We never really liked her music despite her being a true talent but this album is sticking with us. Even “Why R U” sounds good listening to it in the context of the album and that song was not our thing. We’d have to say that our favorite from the preview clips has to be the Jim Jonsin produced “Swag Back”. PRE-ORDER HERE.

It seems like Leona Lewis has gone the route for a lot more uptempo songs this time. From all the previous leaks we definitely feel this album does not live it up to Spirit. After listening to the snippets, the album sounds a lot better but at the same time the portions of the songs they chose has made us realize that whilst Lewis’ voice is incredible her music is just too safe and soulless. Eveything is too structured and manufactured. With that said we’re still looking forward to hear the complete album. PRE-ORDER HERE.

The Wynter That Will Never Come…. We have two new songs from the girl who’s talent seems to be going unnoticed, Wynter Gordon. Both songs let listeners hear the Wynter, minus the oversaturated dance tunes. The first is “Created a Monster”, produced by Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins, and the other is “Should Have Known”, produced by Ryan Leslie.

“Created a Monster” is a ballad with a punch of Pop and a bass/guitar riff that slightly resembles Stargates production for “Irreplaceable.” In the song Gordon regrets being so self-sufficient and the one who wears the pants by spoiling her boyfriend now she wants to turn things over and let him take charge. Hey, we go easy on Gordon, or most artists who are great but get no backing; we like, we like.

Wynter Gordon – Create a Monster (Prod. by Darkchild)

“Should Have Known” is is produced by Ryan Leslie and is one of his more minimal productions. This one is another song about her troubles with a person she was in a relationship with. Well not exactly because she knew the guy was taken, or was not going to make her completely happy and she just settled for him thinking she could win him completely over. We think the production is so simple that an amateur could do it but at the same time that simplicity adds a certain je ne sais quoi to the song.

Wynter Gordon – Should Have Known (Prod. by Ryan Leslie)

Ryan Leslie’s sophomore album, Transition, is nearing with a release date of November 3, 2009. Now, we have the closing track from the album, “I Choose You.”

The album will end on the softer side. This midtempo track portrays Leslie in a vulnerable state confessing that he gives up all his pride and everything that means something to him to show how much he wants the other person. The instrumentation is more on the subtle side with a gentle bassline, synths and other electro sounding classical instruments. Go on ahead and give this talented guy a listen.

Ryan Leslie – I Choose You

The Queen of R&B/Soul, Mary J. Blige, is set to release her latest studio album Stronger this November. So far, we’ve heard the urban banger “The One” featuring Drake and the mid-tempo guitar driven “Stronger”. Now, we have a third mouthful from what’s to come from Blige with “Said & Done”, produced by Ryan Leslie.

Another great song from Blige; it’s obvious she’s going more commercial with her sound but still is keeping the soul alive. Her vocals match Leslie’s production very well and the lyrics pack meaning without drowning the listener with the drama. Three out of three is not bad.

Mary J. Blige – Said & Done (Prod. by Ryan Leslie)

It seems director Anthony Mandler (“Run This Town”) is putting a signature style on his videos which is gritty with a lot of tinted color. The comparisons definitely can be made between this video and the former. The song is a near perfect mid-tempo but whilst the video matches the tempo it’s still a little boring; it just goes nowhere. Check it out!

Here’s another exclusive from the DJ Haze – Big R&B Ego mixtape. This song from Usher, entitled “Be”, was produced by Ryan Leslie and is probably to make the final track listing for Monster.

MATURE! Now this is real contemporary R&B. This is something a middle aged couple would truly enjoy on a dinner date. Ryan Leslie created a subtle instrumental to back Usher’s falsettos and harmonies. A few more tracks like this plus a handful of experimentation and maybe Usher can bounce back from Here I Stand. Take a listen to this as we slow dance into the outro.

Usher – Be

Those of you who have become well acquainted with us should know by now we enjoy talent in its purest form. This time we had the opportunity of speaking with the South Eastern Londoner who goes by the name of Bluey Robinson.

Bluey Robinson, the emerging singer/songwriter, had his hands in music and performing from since he was a youth and within the last few years decided to perfect his craft to basically become the star he’s destined to be. His musical style is very eclectic as he’ll experiment with many sounds; his taste for music extends far and is quite vast.

Having the opportunity to speak with Bluey, we realize that although his path is to align with the stars he’ll somehow always manage to leave part of himself on Earth. He was very easy to speak with and is open; something you’ll notice with all the laughter that occurred. So pop the top to continue on to get to know more of this brilliant artist. You can connect with Bluey via Facebook, Myspace, Twitter, Youtube or his website.

Bluey Robinson: Hey what’s goin’ on man, it’s Bluey.

C.S.: Hey Bluey. Well first off we just want to thank you for taking the time out to do this interview. Before we get into things can you tell us a bit about your background?

B.R.: No worries … Well without getting too personal I was born in Stockholm, Sweden and grew up in London. I’ve been singing and performing most of my life and it’s the only thing I’ve ever wanted to do. I basically have always wanted to inspire people. I don’t really know why it’s been the case but something within me has made me feel this way, it’s just how I am!  I got 3 younger sisters and we’ve had to do a lot of moving around etc… and growing up I’ve had to overcome different battles but my dream has always stayed the same and I guess that’s what drives me to do what I do.

C.S.: Well that’s a pretty amazing story you have to tell. It shows because you do not seem shy at all when it comes to singing to random strangers?

B.R.: Thanks man! Just the buzz! There are no words to really explain what music does to a person.

C.S.: Yes, we completely understand. All your life experiences seem to have given you a unique sense of style. It’s all done by you but what is your opinion on the trendsetting artists who have stylists to assist them along the way?

B.R.: Oh! I think that’s fine. I mean I guess some people need that, maybe I do too. I really have not much of a clue when it comes to the fashion industry I just put clothes together that I like whatever the brand or style as long as I like it it don’t really matter!! and I think it’s cooler really and more unique for everybody to dress how they feel to define there characters a bit.

C.S.: Yes style certainly seems to play a big role in music anymore. Almost so much that artists have multiple personas because the audience becomes bored a lot quicker, especially nowadays. So we say that to say, is the Bluey we hear in the songs and see in the videos the same Bluey off camera?

B.R.: Ya mannn, just me I’m not that interesting HaHa.

C.S.: We’re sure many will beg to differ. So you’re currently with London Village Music but work alongside Ryan Leslie’s Next Selection? How has it been working with both?

B.R.: Oh easy… My manager is partners with Ryan so it’s all good… Extended family! ; – )

C.S.: Speak about a comfortable working environment… Your single “I Know” has received some major positive feedback; both the song and video. How did the inspiration for the song and concept for the video come about?

B.R.: Me and my producer Labrinth were in the studio and he had created the underlying beat and rough hook. He played it to me at the end of one of our sessions and I was like yeah tomorrow! We spent the whole of the next day writing, homing in on the concept and working out where I wanted to take it. Also, what message I wanted to give out etc… it came together really easy and naturally, just felt right.

Similarly, with the video we wanted to make it simple; just me and the girl. Not too much distraction from the general feel and meaning of the song. I like nebula’s and starcapes as they seem really mysterious and interesting and you kinda make up your own understanding of what you’re looking at. Out of this world and that’s what I wanted for the vid. so peeps could make up there own conclusion and open their minds a be a little be free.

C.S.: Ahh so that’s a taste of what goes on behind-the-scenes, interesting… In today’s music industry you see too many incidents where a good song goes unnoticed because of the lack of promotion. Are you alright with just making good music and whoever hears it, hears it or are you fighting so that everyone can hear the song across the world?

B.R.: WORLDWIDE BABY! I’m happy making music. Music I love but I want it to reach as many people as possible. So whoever needs that particular message or feeling gets it! It’s great playing in a small venue to a few people but that was never my dream and I ‘neeeeeeed’ more!! The only problem is, where would I stop?! We’re aiming high!

C.S.: There’s that drive and determination. Also, you’ve confirmed the title of your debut album will be “The Rising Sun”. What has the process been like creating the album?

B.R.: THANKS BRUVA! It’s been really good! Experimenting with different sounds and styles… Really just saying ‘PHUCK’ It! It’s music innit, forget the genres! Working with the right producer is also a great help; someone who will allow you to be free and to have an open mind with no pressure. Trial and error is the best way to learn. We’ve tried a lot of different things they all sounded good but weren’t all THE ONE’S!

C.S.: Yes you’re right. Well speaking of the business aspect do you see yourself getting into other ventures down the line?

B.R.: Yea, Sure I’d like to try anything I guess. Anything creative and different and fun! I’ve done a lot of acting in my life too so would be fun to get back into that a little. A blockbuster or two you know!

C.S.: Yea we were just about to ask you about your acting; with guest roles on EastEnders, Doctors and Britannia High. How did you like those experiences; was it that good that you could see yourself leaving music for a bit to pursue it full time?

B.R.: Research! Yea it was fun and I never planned to be an actor or anything, just kinda fell into it but no, couldn’t pursue it full time. Music is way too empowering to escape.

C.S.: Yup, music is life! Your Youtube page seems to be bringing in the views. Have you experienced any fan incidents walking the streets of London?

B.R.: Umm I always get it… To be real only a few people have come up to me and said they’ve seen me on underground and randomly seen me in the street. I think the views are probably going up through word of mouth etc… and people generally comment on my music and what they think of what I’ve done; words of encouragement etc… Everybody thinks I’m nuts! but they like it. It’s weird the response has been what we wanted but not necessarily what we expected! So much so soon it’s still just the beginning.

C.S.: Yes it’s certainly just the beginning for you. With that your success is just starting and as time goes by do you feel you will need to put your guard up more often?

B.R.: In what instance; when doing videos or just in general?

C.S: Just in general, especially with people trying to become your friend for the wrong reasons.

B.R.: Oh yea, I’ve had a bit of that already. It’s weird but I guess you learn what people are about with time. I know who my real peeps are already but I’m willing to make new friends. I like meeting new people so I’ll give anyone who seems genuine the chance even though in the back of my mind my guard is still up.

C.S.: That’s a very wise thing to do. You seem all about breaking the status quo. In which ways do you plan on doing so?

B.R.: Yea man, breaking boundaries; escaping the systems set in place. I don’t know how I’m gonna do it or what crazy things I’m gonna end up doing during this career of mine but I know my character and there will be surprises!!

C.S.: What are you currently listening to in your music library?

B.R.: A bit of Pharrell, Kanye, Boyz II Men, Muse, Outkast, some classical stuff, a lot of movie soundtracks and some Disney soundtracks too there the best; Mulan!

C.S.: Mulan? Yea that’s some real Disney for ya. So it’s been announced that Michael Jackson’s “This Is It” tribute concert will take place from London’s O2 arena on the 29th of August. Any plans on attenting?

B.R.: I only heard it was definitely happening today and still wasn’t too sure! Thanks for letting me know. I’m upset with this whole thing. I’m sure it would be a nice experience but it’s not the real thing is it? We’ll see, I would actually like to go though!

C.S.: Yea it will definitely be an experience to remember. Well Bluey we seem to be coming to the end of our interview is there anything we have not covered that you would like to say to the people reading this?

B.R.: Ummm… Errr… Eat your veg! It’s important! Oh and I have a single coming out! It’s called “I Know” and it will be out on iTunes on the 17th of August. Buy it if u like it! PEACE X

Here’s a new one from Ryan Leslie. “All My Love” is one of his mid-tempo joints speaking about a lady who has all his attention. Not sure if this one will appear on his sophomore Transition but it will make a nice album cut.

Ryan Leslie – All My Love

Finally this song has leaked. Ever since Ryan showed video footage of this song being produced it was apparent the final product would be something great. This is definitely one of those R. Les produced tracks that takes no time to grow on a person. Keri Hilson who seems to be featured on a lot of songs nowadays lends her sweet vocals to the song. Loso’s Way in stores July 28.

Fabolous – Everything, Everyday, Everywhere feat. Keri Hilson & Ryan Leslie

…and another Ryan Leslie song that takes no time grow. Usually his mid-tempos aren’t instant catchers but Fabolous seems to be a perfect fit for R. Les productions. The hook on this one is catchy. Check it out!

Fabolous – The Fabolous Life feat. Ryan Leslie

Well didn’t this catch us off guard. Ryan Leslie’s first single from his sophomore album, Transition, leaked today. We seriously thought he was promoting his debut until it caught on.

As for the song; there’s no doubt that Ryan Leslie is a gifted musician but at first listen this song wasn’t clicking…

Now a few listens later we love it. Ryan Leslie is definitely a grower artist because he is so sharp, thinks outside of the box and steps to the left on too many occasions. All of this which in the long run is perfect for an artist looking for longevity.

Ryan Leslie – You’re Not My Girl

Here is a new one from Ryan Leslie titled “Gonna Let This Luv”. It is signature R’ Les, smooth, laid-back R&B. Give it a listen.

Ryan Leslie – Gonna Let This Luv