shorttrini said:

sexyfunkystrange said:

I would exclude Madonna.

Both Ray of Light and Confessions on a Dance Floor outsold as well as musically exceeded Erotica. And unlike the rest, shes continued to score top 10 singles throughout the decade. That alone sets her apart and disqualifies her from the list.

Just because they outsold the rest, does not mean that they are any good. A good example of what I mean would be "Thriller". Yes, it did make and break records, but that does not mean that it was a good album. It just means that MJ, had a great marketing strategy and team. Musically, Madonna's best album was her first and Michael's was, "Off The Wall".

"Off The Wall" was not Michael Jackson's first solo album.

phunkdaddy said:

missfee said:

OMG did you say Smokey??? [img:$uid]http://www.pic4ever.com/images/5.gif[/img:$uid]

Here's my list...

Ciara- Ok, I recent heard her new song on the radio...it sucks...she really hasn't had a REAL good song since she debut.

Jay-z- Dude is like well into his 40s and that so-called "retirement" was BS. And that sorry excuse for a song "New York", IMO was terrible.

Usher- I lost interest in him ever since "Confessions"...and here he is, as of 2010, making music that songs more appropriate for someone in their late teens, early 20s, than someone who is in their 30s.

Ashanti- The last song I heard from her was from 5 years ago, and besides she was never good at singing anyway.

Charlie Wilson- He really needs to stop acting like he's 20 years old again...

Ron Isley/Isley Brothers- Same goes for him also. The last album he had from like 4 years ago sucked anyway. Another thing, even though it still cool when it was cut down to a duo, the Isley Brothers were not the same when O Kelly died, Rudolph left, and Marvin got sick (and later died recently) and Jasper left.

R. Kelly- Forget about that "Chocolate Factory" mess, dude hasn't had a decent song since 2002.

Bobby Valentino- Some dude who was in some very little known group, Mista, and his singles are BETTER than his albums.

Prince- I grew up listening to Prince and I love him very much but dude has been acting like a bitch for the past 10+ years and every since he became a JW, which is fine, but he hasn't really been good when it came to his music. And that last album he had...I didn't even need to buy it to know that it was worthless.

Dr. Dre- He just needs to give up...wait over 10 years for a damn album is pointless.

Ja Rule- He needs to forget about ressurecting his already dead career, which was destroyed by 50, and stop whining like a brat because Prince didn't want you to butcher his music for your vanity.

Ginuwine- He has not been relevant in years...

Timbaland- I've lost respect from him a long time ago. partially because of he stole foreign music without paying the original artists or even giving them credit. And also his music/beats sounds generic.

50 cent- Does anyone really care about him anymore?

Lionel Richie- He seriously needs to sit his ass down, he has not been truly relevant since the 80s.

[Edited 6/14/10 2:42am]

dreamfactory313 said:

shorttrini said:

Just because they outsold the rest, does not mean that they are any good. A good example of what I mean would be "Thriller". Yes, it did make and break records, but that does not mean that it was a good album. It just means that MJ, had a great marketing strategy and team. Musically, Madonna's best album was her first and Michael's was, "Off The Wall".

"Off The Wall" was not Michael Jackson's first solo album.

It was as an adult. Forget about those other solos he had at Nomoneyforyoutown (Motown).

[Edited 6/14/10 1:16am]

Lionel Richie----Unless he comes to his senses and reunites with the Commodores,I think it's time for him to hang it up.His solo albums are instantly forgettable,featuring embarassing collaborations with folks like Akon

SoulAlive said:

Lionel Richie----Unless he comes to his senses and reunites with the Commodores,I think it's time for him to hang it up.His solo albums are instantly forgettable,featuring embarassing collaborations with folks like Akon

Even the solos he had back in the day that were hits are not even worth remembering at times...and let's not forget his recent music appearance of Enrique Iglesias's "I like It" along with Pitbull.

Axl Rose, Chinese democracy was dreadful

Christina Aguilera, she is so 1999 and whats with all this Lady Gaga imitation crap now.

All Disney music, they are not artists anyway, just muppets

All Shit hoppers

Whitney Houston, she had her day the bad concerts and drugs have wrecked her voice

Streisand, how much money does this woman want??????

Celine Dion and Britney Spears, both may have bowed out finally (Praise Jesus)

And I have to say Prince, his new albums all sound the same, and he has nothing new to offer musically.

And if the Rolling Stones announce another tour, I will tear my hair out.

NastradumasKid said:

SoulAlive said:

Lionel Richie----Unless he comes to his senses and reunites with the Commodores,I think it's time for him to hang it up.His solo albums are instantly forgettable,featuring embarassing collaborations with folks like Akon

Even the solos he had back in the day that were hits are not even worth remembering at times...and let's not forget his recent music appearance of Enrique Iglesias's "I like It" along with Pitbull.

He's ruining his legacy

Huggiebear said:

Celine Dion and Britney Spears, both may have bowed out finally (Praise Jesus)

Huh? They both had successful albums and tours with their last projects.

SoulAlive said:

NastradumasKid said:

Even the solos he had back in the day that were hits are not even worth remembering at times...and let's not forget his recent music appearance of Enrique Iglesias's "I like It" along with Pitbull.

He's ruining his legacy

He sure as hell ain't the only one doing that...and he's sure not the last one either.

Busta Rhymes- Dude hasn't been the same in a long ass time. Dude was part of the Leaders Of The New School, and to be honest I really do think his ego issues is why the group broke up. But, when he was going solo he was crazy, new, and his rapping style was very unique. I understand he's getting older now but damn he's changed so damn much, it's ridiculous.

Allnall said:

INteresting views...

I think we should separate the performances from the recordings....for this reason..

Take EWF for example....

Let's say Maurice did not have Parkinsons.....he would still be 69 years old this year December..

Now do you honestly think that he, along with the others...EVEN IF the original 9 was to re-group, would be able to physically entertain the way they did nearly 35 years ago?? would their performances be boring if they did September, etc...and moved with less energy than they used to and for all of us who remember the 70s...what would we say when we look back and inevitably compare.....

I can see folk...."They too slow".... Look at Phil...he's overweight...he dont move like he used to...If u got eh best out of an EWF performance today with all originals..it would STILL not be able to compare to the spark, energy and vitality of the 70s because of each one's advanced age....Even if they performed some of their songs that dont normally show up in concert performances.....

Do we continue to celebrate Tina Turner, for ex....because she can still rock those High heels..even though she might not perform to the frenzy of her younger days in Proud Mary?

How do you draw that proverbial line where U allow for some inevitable deterioration in performance but still allow for that artist to do their thing...

U2 will slow down one day...Rollin stones....hey, yes, even them too...

Its a fact...we grow old...and certain performers who rely on physicality as well as visual and vocals will not be able to perform as they used to...

Now for sure...there would be MAJOR cache if Maurice was there...regardless if he didnt move like he used too...but people would still compare them to their heyday...be honest.....

Now if these same artists can rock it in the studio...vocals in tact, etc...let them carry on...but U have to define what U want from your legends when they reach that age when the physical starts to fail them......human nature will take over and folk will complain that these artists dont do it like they used to...as if any one if us fans can either......

What might be useful is for us to figure out which artists/legends have a better chance of surving their "senior" years than others....

Very good points.

My issue with EW&F is not really about their ages.There are many older artists and bands who continue performing throughout their 60s and beyond.No problem there.I just feel that,with Earth Wind and Fire,the magic is long gone.As far as I'm concerned,there is no Earth Wind and Fire without Maurice White.Since he's no longer a full-time member,I see no reason for them to continue.During their heyday,their concerts were powerful,spiritual,magical EVENTS.These days,their shows are Vegas-y and inconsistent,with new members arriving and departing with every tour.Without the classic line-up (Maurice,Larry Dunn,Al McKay,etc),I just can't bring myself to go to their concerts anymore.

dreamfactory313 said:

shorttrini said:

Just because they outsold the rest, does not mean that they are any good. A good example of what I mean would be "Thriller". Yes, it did make and break records, but that does not mean that it was a good album. It just means that MJ, had a great marketing strategy and team. Musically, Madonna's best album was her first and Michael's was, "Off The Wall".

"Off The Wall" was not Michael Jackson's first solo album.

I never said it was. I said that in my opinion, it was his best.

SoulAlive said:

Allnall said:

INteresting views...

I think we should separate the performances from the recordings....for this reason..

Take EWF for example....

Let's say Maurice did not have Parkinsons.....he would still be 69 years old this year December..

Now do you honestly think that he, along with the others...EVEN IF the original 9 was to re-group, would be able to physically entertain the way they did nearly 35 years ago?? would their performances be boring if they did September, etc...and moved with less energy than they used to and for all of us who remember the 70s...what would we say when we look back and inevitably compare.....

I can see folk...."They too slow".... Look at Phil...he's overweight...he dont move like he used to...If u got eh best out of an EWF performance today with all originals..it would STILL not be able to compare to the spark, energy and vitality of the 70s because of each one's advanced age....Even if they performed some of their songs that dont normally show up in concert performances.....

Do we continue to celebrate Tina Turner, for ex....because she can still rock those High heels..even though she might not perform to the frenzy of her younger days in Proud Mary?

How do you draw that proverbial line where U allow for some inevitable deterioration in performance but still allow for that artist to do their thing...

U2 will slow down one day...Rollin stones....hey, yes, even them too...

Its a fact...we grow old...and certain performers who rely on physicality as well as visual and vocals will not be able to perform as they used to...

Now for sure...there would be MAJOR cache if Maurice was there...regardless if he didnt move like he used too...but people would still compare them to their heyday...be honest.....

Now if these same artists can rock it in the studio...vocals in tact, etc...let them carry on...but U have to define what U want from your legends when they reach that age when the physical starts to fail them......human nature will take over and folk will complain that these artists dont do it like they used to...as if any one if us fans can either......

What might be useful is for us to figure out which artists/legends have a better chance of surving their "senior" years than others....

Very good points.

My issue with EW&F is not really about their ages.There are many older artists and bands who continue performing throughout their 60s and beyond.No problem there.I just feel that,with Earth Wind and Fire,the magic is long gone.As far as I'm concerned,there is no Earth Wind and Fire without Maurice White.Since he's no longer a full-time member,I see no reason for them to continue.During their heyday,their concerts were powerful,spiritual,magical EVENTS.These days,their shows are Vegas-y and inconsistent,with new members arriving and departing with every tour.Without the classic line-up (Maurice,Larry Dunn,Al McKay,etc),I just can't bring myself to go to their concerts anymore.

PREACH!!!!

NastradumasKid said:

Charlie Wilson- He really needs to stop acting like he's 20 years old again...

Ron Isley/Isley Brothers- Same goes for him also. The last album he had from like 4 years ago sucked anyway. Another thing, even though it still cool when it was cut down to a duo, the Isley Brothers were not the same when O Kelly died, Rudolph left, and Marvin got sick (and later died recently) and Jasper left.

R. Kelly- Forget about that "Chocolate Factory" mess, dude hasn't had a decent song since 2002.

Bobby Valentino- Some dude who was in some very little known group, Mista, and his singles are BETTER than his albums.

Prince- I grew up listening to Prince and I love him very much but dude has been acting like a bitch for the past 10+ years and every since he became a JW, which is fine, but he hasn't really been good when it came to his music. And that last album he had...I didn't even need to buy it to know that it was worthless.

Ja Rule- He needs to forget about ressurecting his already dead career, which was destroyed by 50, and stop whining like a brat because Prince didn't want you to butcher his music for your vanity.

Ginuwine- He has not been relevant in years...

Lionel Richie- He seriously needs to sit his ass down, he has not been truly relevant since the 80s.

[Edited 6/14/10 2:42am]

I agree with the above, but Bobby Valentino??? Well I have to say that the boy can sing his tail off and his first album is a favorite of mine, but the ones that came after have been mediocre at best. I think he's trying to hard to be "in" right now instead of just singing songs that fit his voice and singing style. He needs to stop singing these sex-charged Trey Songz type songs and get back to what he was originally singing about.

And about the Prince comment...well as much as I love P, I have to say, the comments you made are on point. He hasn't made a relevant album since Emancipation in my eyes. And then when he puts out these lackluster albums he acts like it's the best thing since hot buttered biscuits...then when us fans finally get to listen to it, it's more like years old molded bread....redundant, boring, and stale.

[Edited 6/14/10 4:51am]

NastradumasKid said:

SoulAlive said:

He's ruining his legacy

He sure as hell ain't the only one doing that...and he's sure not the last one either.

Busta Rhymes- Dude hasn't been the same in a long ass time. Dude was part of the Leaders Of The New School, and to be honest I really do think his ego issues is why the group broke up. But, when he was going solo he was crazy, new, and his rapping style was very unique. I understand he's getting older now but damn he's changed so damn much, it's ridiculous.

I know exactly what you mean by this. I actually saw the "Scenario" video on VH1 Soul last week and it forgot how exciting that man used to be. Then when he went solo, his songs and flow was even more exciting, but in the past 10 years or so, he's been doing this type bull that is only geared towards being played in the clubs. He's boring now. More like he's yelling for no reason this days, before he used to be yelling with something to say.

shorttrini said:

Superstition said:

Stevie Wonder and John Legend both have a lot of gas in their tanks. Stevie is always working on something whether or not he's releasing an album. He's starred on many other people's tracks and has produced a few for others, as well as released a new song here or there.

It's not like the market is saturated with Stevie products... he's pretty easy to avoid if you don't want to hear him.

It's not the fact that I don't want to hear him, I think Stevie is a legend and a master at his craft. I have said here many times, that SITKOL, should be required listening in schools. That being said, his voice is not what it used to be, and neither is some of his material. As for John, his material has been sub-par since the first album. I call him the "Black Tony Bennett", because he bores the shit out of me, with what he has been doing since his debut.

I just don't see the reason Stevie should retire because of his voice: he still sounds pretty damn good most of the time, his band is incredible... his voice and material "not being what it used to be" isn't a good enough reason. If every artist had to live up to what they were in their peak, you'd see careers of 5 - 10 years. Dude is still a force to be reckoned with when it comes to live performances.

missfee said:

NastradumasKid said:

Charlie Wilson- He really needs to stop acting like he's 20 years old again...

Ron Isley/Isley Brothers- Same goes for him also. The last album he had from like 4 years ago sucked anyway. Another thing, even though it still cool when it was cut down to a duo, the Isley Brothers were not the same when O Kelly died, Rudolph left, and Marvin got sick (and later died recently) and Jasper left.

R. Kelly- Forget about that "Chocolate Factory" mess, dude hasn't had a decent song since 2002.

Bobby Valentino- Some dude who was in some very little known group, Mista, and his singles are BETTER than his albums.

Prince- I grew up listening to Prince and I love him very much but dude has been acting like a bitch for the past 10+ years and every since he became a JW, which is fine, but he hasn't really been good when it came to his music. And that last album he had...I didn't even need to buy it to know that it was worthless.

Ja Rule- He needs to forget about ressurecting his already dead career, which was destroyed by 50, and stop whining like a brat because Prince didn't want you to butcher his music for your vanity.

Ginuwine- He has not been relevant in years...

Lionel Richie- He seriously needs to sit his ass down, he has not been truly relevant since the 80s.

[Edited 6/14/10 2:42am]

I agree with the above, but Bobby Valentino??? Well I have to say that the boy can sing his tail off and his first album is a favorite of mine, but the ones that came after have been mediocre at best. I think he's trying to hard to be "in" right now instead of just singing songs that fit his voice and singing style. He needs to stop singing these sex-charged Trey Songz type songs and get back to what he was originally singing about.

And about the Prince comment...well as much as I love P, I have to say, the comments you made are on point. He hasn't made a relevant album since Emancipation in my eyes. And then when he puts out these lackluster albums he acts like it's the best thing since hot buttered biscuits...then when us fans finally get to listen to it, it's more like years old molded bread....redundant, boring, and stale.

[Edited 6/14/10 4:51am]

Yeah Bobby V. LOL. it's just that, it makes me laugh how for someone who can sing, how the hell can your hits be way better than your albums? And I to, believe he should stop trying to emulate others.

And I agree with your Prince comment also, but I really didn't mind Musicology and 3121, but that's about it. And lately I've been wondering if I should still give Prince a chance. I know it may never happen, but it really would be nice if released a Greatest Hits album again, but with more unreleased music...

sexyfunkystrange said:

I would exclude Madonna.

Both Ray of Light and Confessions on a Dance Floor outsold as well as musically exceeded Erotica. And unlike the rest, shes continued to score top 10 singles throughout the decade. That alone sets her apart and disqualifies her from the list.

Here, here. Madonna forever!

shorttrini said:

Harlepolis said:

Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston.

Not necessarily hang it up, just take a break(a LONG one), fire all the yes men and women, and get their shit together with a clear & open mind and heart. I know we joke about it and all, but enough with the intentional "fall from grace" episodes already. I love them too much to see them lose it completely, its not worth it.

When it comes to Mariah, I 100% agree about her taking a break. I look at Leona Lewis and think, "This is who Mariah, used to be". Mariah seems not to care anymore and just has the mindset that "anything will do, the fans will like me, no matter what". As far as Whitney, she just needs to do dinner shows at "Bobbi's Bar & Grill". It' over.

Are you serious? Leona is sooooooooo boring, and flopping now as well.

raffi said:

shorttrini said:

When it comes to Mariah, I 100% agree about her taking a break. I look at Leona Lewis and think, "This is who Mariah, used to be". Mariah seems not to care anymore and just has the mindset that "anything will do, the fans will like me, no matter what". As far as Whitney, she just needs to do dinner shows at "Bobbi's Bar & Grill". It' over.

Are you serious? Leona is sooooooooo boring, and flopping now as well.

All Mariah is now is, tabloid fodder. She once has that beautiful voice and now, due to a combination of age and laziness, she can barely hit those notes that she was once known for...Time for her to sit this round out.

I just came across this thread and find it pretty interesting/strange.

If folks stuck with some of the obvious choices like Whitney Houston, I could totally understand the healthy back and forth.

There have been a number of artists discussed here who's catalogs I either don't know or don't like. So I'll just stick with the three I know.

Saying Paul Simon, Prince or Stevie Wonder should hang it up is crazy talk to me.

For those who think Stevie has lost his voice, have you heard the live in london at the 02 blu ray from 2009? He sounds INCREDIBLE. I will concede that his new album output has been far slower over the past 15 years and the material on those records has been spotty, but why retire? He still tours with a kicka$$ band and still releases somewhat decent music every now and again.

Paul Simon - exact same thing. In 2000 on his You're the One tour, I thought it was over for him. His voice was really pitchy and cracking, he looked like he had lost his energy. I was afraid the end was near. But he put out a pretty darn good album in 2006 and again, played a tribute concert just last year (with Stevie Wonder no less) where he sounded great.

As for Prince - well he may act like a 12 year old at times, but his voice and guitar playing are still phenomenal and he still churns out new albums every year. Granted the material is still spotty, (and sometimes embarrasingly bad) but after putting out 40 records, I don't see that as a big deal. So again, why retire?

I think retirement talk should be reserved for people like Whitney Houston, or David Ruffin when he was at the end of his career/life with the Temps. The drugs have taken their toll.

When your voice is totally shot and you're making a total embarrasment of yourself, it's time to go. Some of the other folks you're mentioning still have quite a few miles left in the tank for me personally.

Fenwick said:

I just came across this thread and find it pretty interesting/strange.

If folks stuck with some of the obvious choices like Whitney Houston, I could totally understand the healthy back and forth.

There have been a number of artists discussed here who's catalogs I either don't know or don't like. So I'll just stick with the three I know.

Saying Paul Simon, Prince or Stevie Wonder should hang it up is crazy talk to me.

For those who think Stevie has lost his voice, have you heard the live in london at the 02 blu ray from 2009? He sounds INCREDIBLE. I will concede that his new album output has been far slower over the past 15 years and the material on those records has been spotty, but why retire? He still tours with a kicka$$ band and still releases somewhat decent music every now and again.

Paul Simon - exact same thing. In 2000 on his You're the One tour, I thought it was over for him. His voice was really pitchy and cracking, he looked like he had lost his energy. I was afraid the end was near. But he put out a pretty darn good album in 2006 and again, played a tribute concert just last year (with Stevie Wonder no less) where he sounded great.

As for Prince - well he may act like a 12 year old at times, but his voice and guitar playing are still phenomenal and he still churns out new albums every year. Granted the material is still spotty, (and sometimes embarrasingly bad) but after putting out 40 records, I don't see that as a big deal. So again, why retire?

I think retirement talk should be reserved for people like Whitney Houston, or David Ruffin when he was at the end of his career/life with the Temps. The drugs have taken their toll.

When your voice is totally shot and you're making a total embarrasment of yourself, it's time to go. Some of the other folks you're mentioning still have quite a few miles left in the tank for me personally.

Totally agree. Speaking of Paul Simon and Stevie Wonder, not only are they each doing great things, they also did something pretty stunning together just three years ago:

[Edited 6/14/10 9:22am]

[Edited 6/14/10 9:22am]

That is a tough question because: Artist make a living at this and should perform as long as they can.

That said, my list:

Alicia Keys

Madonna

Chris brown

Trey Songz

R Kelly

ALL country acts

95% of all rappers

Puffy

Spears

95% of American Idol acts

SoulAlive said:

Allnall said:

INteresting views...

I think we should separate the performances from the recordings....for this reason..

Take EWF for example....

Let's say Maurice did not have Parkinsons.....he would still be 69 years old this year December..

Now do you honestly think that he, along with the others...EVEN IF the original 9 was to re-group, would be able to physically entertain the way they did nearly 35 years ago?? would their performances be boring if they did September, etc...and moved with less energy than they used to and for all of us who remember the 70s...what would we say when we look back and inevitably compare.....

I can see folk...."They too slow".... Look at Phil...he's overweight...he dont move like he used to...If u got eh best out of an EWF performance today with all originals..it would STILL not be able to compare to the spark, energy and vitality of the 70s because of each one's advanced age....Even if they performed some of their songs that dont normally show up in concert performances.....

Do we continue to celebrate Tina Turner, for ex....because she can still rock those High heels..even though she might not perform to the frenzy of her younger days in Proud Mary?

How do you draw that proverbial line where U allow for some inevitable deterioration in performance but still allow for that artist to do their thing...

U2 will slow down one day...Rollin stones....hey, yes, even them too...

Its a fact...we grow old...and certain performers who rely on physicality as well as visual and vocals will not be able to perform as they used to...

Now for sure...there would be MAJOR cache if Maurice was there...regardless if he didnt move like he used too...but people would still compare them to their heyday...be honest.....

Now if these same artists can rock it in the studio...vocals in tact, etc...let them carry on...but U have to define what U want from your legends when they reach that age when the physical starts to fail them......human nature will take over and folk will complain that these artists dont do it like they used to...as if any one if us fans can either......

What might be useful is for us to figure out which artists/legends have a better chance of surving their "senior" years than others....

Very good points.

My issue with EW&F is not really about their ages.There are many older artists and bands who continue performing throughout their 60s and beyond.No problem there.I just feel that,with Earth Wind and Fire,the magic is long gone.As far as I'm concerned,there is no Earth Wind and Fire without Maurice White.Since he's no longer a full-time member,I see no reason for them to continue.During their heyday,their concerts were powerful,spiritual,magical EVENTS.These days,their shows are Vegas-y and inconsistent,with new members arriving and departing with every tour.Without the classic line-up (Maurice,Larry Dunn,Al McKay,etc),I just can't bring myself to go to their concerts anymore.

Soulalive, I really cant disagree with you.

While I still find alot of joy attending EWF shows whenever I can, and can attest that in many respects, the "Session" players even though sometimes change every year, the quality of the end product is still great...and Yes, Phil will have those days when he isnt quite there...he also has been on top of his game many times that I have seen them thru the years....it cant ever be true EWF without Maurice...

I have seen shows where fans have enjoyed it...but I hear people while they are filing out saying the same thing U are...it aint EWF without Maurice....How can I Disagree even tho Phil Verdine and Ralph are trying to keep the legacy going.....

Prince will always put on a great show....unlike most artists, he has that special quality that makes his shows not to be missed...however, I have not liked anything he has put out for years and years.....I dont know if he is not inspired anymore, and I guess if U are a hardcore fan U will find any means by which to support your fave artists, and find something worthwhile in their recent stuff...but I cant with Prince...so can I say he should retire...I dont know, but I will always find a way to see him on tour...he has yet to fall down in that respect....I guess it depends how much weight U place on the declining quality of his musical output relative to his live shows (whenever he has them)......at some point there will be little if any excitement when he has new music.....remember the hoopla with Sade's recent CD???? Regardless of whether the jury is out as to how good or bad it is, there was certainly no end of goodwill and talk related to her....

Lionel....well, I dont listen to him at all now.....Like the Isleys, I find it unfortunate and pathetic the way they have chased down the supposed latest trends in music as if the youth will really care for an "aging" artist if they saddle themselves with who is hot....I can understand the mindset behind hooking up with Kanye West, or a Lady Gaga, because the notoriety alone will garner press and excitement, but if the end product is contradictory to your Legend, then U've chased a quick buck which will probably not help U when U go back to the studio relying on your name alone....

Stevie, I have much love for....voices change, and yeah, he has slipped somewhat, but I can still feel and hear the majesty, so I dont think he needs to call it a day...he (unlike Lionel) is not tarnishing his legacy....

I wish that he, as would EWF, realise that if they are going to record new music, go back and listen to the power and majesty of what worked for them back in the day, and even if U want to take advantage of the latest technology, dont, dont, dont let it change what made U special.....No hip-hop , no rapping, no machine drum beat....real music, using real instruments...and then let the chips fall where they may....

[Edited 6/14/10 10:29am]

The real question is what artists that have been around for while, should still keep going, and NOT hang it up just yet......

I wonder what that list would look like?

NastradumasKid said:

Here's my list...

Ciara- Ok, I recent heard her new song on the radio...it sucks...she really hasn't had a REAL good song since she debut.

Jay-z- Dude is like well into his 40s and that so-called "retirement" was BS. And that sorry excuse for a song "New York", IMO was terrible.

Usher- I lost interest in him ever since "Confessions"...and here he is, as of 2010, making music that songs more appropriate for someone in their late teens, early 20s, than someone who is in their 30s.

Ashanti- The last song I heard from her was from 5 years ago, and besides she was never good at singing anyway.

Charlie Wilson- He really needs to stop acting like he's 20 years old again...

Ron Isley/Isley Brothers- Same goes for him also. The last album he had from like 4 years ago sucked anyway. Another thing, even though it still cool when it was cut down to a duo, the Isley Brothers were not the same when O Kelly died, Rudolph left, and Marvin got sick (and later died recently) and Jasper left.

R. Kelly- Forget about that "Chocolate Factory" mess, dude hasn't had a decent song since 2002.

Bobby Valentino- Some dude who was in some very little known group, Mista, and his singles are BETTER than his albums.

Prince- I grew up listening to Prince and I love him very much but dude has been acting like a bitch for the past 10+ years and every since he became a JW, which is fine, but he hasn't really been good when it came to his music. And that last album he had...I didn't even need to buy it to know that it was worthless.

Dr. Dre- He just needs to give up...wait over 10 years for a damn album is pointless.

Ja Rule- He needs to forget about ressurecting his already dead career, which was destroyed by 50, and stop whining like a brat because Prince didn't want you to butcher his music for your vanity.

Ginuwine- He has not been relevant in years...

Timbaland- I've lost respect from him a long time ago. partially because of he stole foreign music without paying the original artists or even giving them credit. And also his music/beats sounds generic.

50 cent- Does anyone really care about him anymore?

Lionel Richie- He seriously needs to sit his ass down, he has not been truly relevant since the 80s.

[Edited 6/14/10 2:42am]

Pretty much agree with 99 percent of the list but LMAO at the Charlie Wilson

and Lionel Richie comments.

Why you dissing Mista and Blackberry Molasses Nastra?

[Edited 6/14/10 11:02am]

I don't agree about hanging it up. Many of these artists just need real inspiration again. As for someone like Whitney, girl should've not come out with the tour so quick or at least not do a tour at all, save herself some dignity and not be foolish enough to only "trust God" with her voice. Other than that, no, artists don't need to "hang it up". JMHO.

Superstition said:

shorttrini said:

Ok. So I am here watching the 25th Anniversary Rock & Roll Hall of Fame concert, and it got me to thinking..."What artist do you think show just "call it a day and just go home". Here are my choices.

1. Stevie Wonder - As much as he is a legend, in my opinion, he just does not have it anymore. His voice is not what it used to be.

2. Madonna - Her best days are behind her, as far as I am concerned. She has not released anything of substance, since "Erotica".

3. Paul Simon - Same as Madonna....His last great album was "Graceland".

4. Quincy Jones - After the "We are the world" and Strawberry Letter 23" incidents, he has a room waiting for him at Bellvue.

5. Janet Jackson - As long as she continues to make music for the hearing impaired, she will never be what she was in my book.

6. Anita Baker - Can we say, "National Anthem"

7. John Legend - The only good thing that he put out was his debut, after that it was all down hill.

This is what I came up with so far. What about you guys...

Stevie Wonder and John Legend both have a lot of gas in their tanks. Stevie is always working on something whether or not he's releasing an album. He's starred on many other people's tracks and has produced a few for others, as well as released a new song here or there.

It's not like the market is saturated with Stevie products... he's pretty easy to avoid if you don't want to hear him.

Yeah and people INVITE Stevie to their shit. It ain't like he's saying "I need to be on there!" No the people ASKED STEVIE to come. Maybe that's another reason why he never finish his albums. But I'm sure Stevie don't mind this though lol

Allnall said:

Prince will always put on a great show....unlike most artists, he has that special quality that makes his shows not to be missed...however, I have not liked anything he has put out for years and years.....I dont know if he is not inspired anymore, and I guess if U are a hardcore fan U will find any means by which to support your fave artists, and find something worthwhile in their recent stuff...but I cant with Prince...so can I say he should retire...I dont know, but I will always find a way to see him on tour...he has yet to fall down in that respect.

All excellent points, though it seems you're questioning HIS inspiration based on what YOU like or dislike (...which I suppose would be fair, from your perspective). But I've sincerely enjoyed every album Prince has ever put out (...albeit, there are usually one or two songs on EACH of his albums that I can easily skip over - but even those I feel are well produced). And I LOVE mostly all his music not because I am such a big fan, rather I'm a big fan because I LOVE mostly all his music, lol.

So from MY perspective, Prince seems to continue to be WILDLY inspired. Even though his stage performances have been nowhere near the level of frenzy he used to exhibit in the years leading up to CONTROVERSY (nearly 30 years ago already). In fact, the Prince of TODAY almost bears no resembelence to pre-Controversy Prince - and yet I hope he keeps the music and live performances coming, in whatever manner he sees fit. I hope he never "hangs it up and calls it a day".

Inevitably, all artists will grow old and become a shadow of their younger selves. When Prince HAS to die, I hope it's many year from now, on stage, and after his final encore.