Rita Ora is everything Nicki Minaj wishes she was as a pop sar (thoug obviously not as a rap star) and in 2013, Rock-a-fella will make sure we all get the message. Plus the male Kardashian claiming Rita slept with twnety (count em) of his friends couldn't hurt. Find out at the Highline on Monday.
Tuesday – Solange – Beacon Theater – Admittedly, I prefer the first album to the new EP. But that doesn't mean I don't love the new EP.
Wednesday – Ghostface Killah – Webster Hall – He is too prolific but one of the best rappers around. Still.
Thursday – Leonard Cohen -Barclay Center – I saw him twice last time round and thought him a little heavy going, and this time he is pushing an album Old Ideas, so less hits, but still… if I was in town I would be there.
Friday – Fred Hammond – New Jersey Performing Arts Center – I am so happy I am out of town for this concert. The venue is nearly impossible for me to get in or out of and it woulda killed me to miss the purveyor of the best soul album of the year. Born Again, Schmorn Again, this man carries Stevie Wonder's mantle.
Saturday – David Johanssen – Bowery Ballroom – The last time I saw the Doll, earlier this year, he was as great as any rocker ever. Before that? At the Stones trib, Carnegie Hall? The best act of a night that included Marianne Faithful
Sunday – Groove Buffet – BB Kings – Soul and r&b covers and well worth catching