Maxwell - Pretty Wings

Artist: Maxwell Track: Pretty Wings Album: BLACKsummers'night Year: 2009
I'm not a huge R&B fan but this song really grew on me. It was recommended to me, so I kept listening and sure enough, it's been playing in my head constantly! The song is a soulful trip through the experience of loving someone but knowing you have to let them "free to fly [their] pretty wings". 
Maxwell's falsetto is beautiful in the chorus. The chimes in the beginning are an interesting addition, but my favorite part is when the horns come in about three fourths of the way through the song. Those combined with the aforementioned falsetto chorus lines and the raw sound that his voice takes towards the end really get you into the emotion of the song.
Click for lyrics, music video & links!

Fitz And The Tantrums - MoneyGrabber

Artist: Fitz And The Tantrums

Track: MoneyGrabber

Album: Pinkin' Up The Piecces

Year: 2010

This group is a nice refreshing trip back to the soul sounds of Motown. I was hooked on "MoneyGrabber" the first time I heard it. Lovin' the organ, sax, and hand claps that make you just tap your foot. Lead vocalist and band-leader, Michael Fitzpatrick and R&B singer, Noelle Scaggs, bring a fresh, genuine energy to their music. 

I can't wait to hear more from them!

Click for lyrics, music video, & links!