HOLD UP! Hold up! Is that Robert Kelly picking up where "Step In The Name Of Love" left off? He has gained a little weight and probably had some time on his hands to reflect. To my surprise, R. Kelly shut the whole show down from the start! This man reminded everyone why we ultimately fell in love with him. It was because of the music and not the drama. Hopefully, this is the incentive/inspiration R. needs to step back into that limelight. We're rooting for you! These kids nowadays don't sing like that anymore!!!

After hearing the opening line-up announcement, I wonder if everybody and their mama was at the awards show except for me (lol). The reigning hosts, Taraji P. Henson & Terrell Howard, of the Soul Train Awards brought an interesting theatrical element to the awards this year. It was definitely an improvement from last year. Then (drum roll please!)...

...Then (and I must have glossed over the fact that there was a tribute to one of my favorite singers of all time!), Chrisette Michele, Tamia, Faith Evans, Kem, Rachelle Ferrell, Lalah Hathaway, Goapele, Dionne Farris, and finally El DeBarge rained down their gratitude for the legendary music of soul songstress Anita Baker (listen HERE to one of my Anita favorites). Chrisette was a perfect opening. Tamia got an opportunity to truly thank the woman who introduced her to her now-husband Grant Hill. Faith sounded good. Kem got trumped (as most singers would) by the incomparable Rachelle Ferrell. Lalah was the highlight for me!!! She needs to record that one! Seriously... Goapele got overshadowed by the powerhouse/very appropriate vocals of Dionne Farris. And it ended with a very gracious speech from Anita, in which she acknowledges that there was some sangin' on that stage, and El DeBarge singing a final thanks.

Here's another highlight:

Erykah can do no wrong by me. Yeah I said it (lol). This was a very artistic performance and she stands out for her individualism.

Does anyone still care about the nominations and winners anymore??? Anyone? ;)

- uhkeem