2026 has been a hard year for a lot of us, including my family. After my daughter’s accident, my priorities shifted overnight. The plans I’d made suddenly seemed less important than being there for my family.
Some days, optimism felt out of reach. That’s when “Optimistic” by Sounds of Blackness took on a deeper meaning for me. The song reminds me that better days are possible, even when I can’t see them yet.
I know I’m not the only one with a song like that. Maybe yours is an old-school R&B favorite, a gospel song that gave you strength, or something new that said exactly what you were feeling.
What song got you through 2026?
It doesn’t have to be new or popular. It just has to mean something to you.
Hit reply by Friday, 11/13/26 with the song, the artist, and a sentence or two about why it mattered. I’ll build a playlist from your picks and share it in next month’s newsletter, along with some of your stories.
Your song may be exactly what someone else needs to hear.
Brandon J. Marks Featured on Houston Public Media 88.7FM
Mocha Man Music artist Brandon J. Marks recently joined Hello Houston Executive Producer Jim Kovacik for the Five Simple Questions segment on Houston Public Media.
During the conversation, Brandon discusses his musical journey, the R&B artists who influenced his sound, and his career as a singer-songwriter.
Brandon also performed three original songs, “Hold On,” “PLJ (Peace, Love, Joy),” and “ALR.”
Mocha Man Music artist Roxé is turning up the heat with “Fever,” her electrifying new single and music video. Blending infectious dance-pop rhythms, shimmering synths, and captivating vocals, the track delivers an irresistible, club-ready sound.
Scarface's Legendary Tiny Desk Concert Is Coming to Physical Media
When Scarface performed on NPR's Tiny Desk in December 2023, he reminded everyone why he's one of hip-hop's greatest storytellers. Backed by a live band that included legendary Houston producer Mike Dean, Scarface delivered powerful renditions of classics such as "On My Block," "I Seen a Man Die," "Smile," and "Mind Playing Tricks on Me."
Now, that unforgettable performance is coming out on physical media.
As part of Rap-A-Lot Records' 40th anniversary celebration, Scarface: NPR Tiny Desk Concert will be available on vinyl, CD, and cassette. Vinyl collectors can choose between two distinctive pressings, including a colorful indie-exclusive edition.
The release is scheduled for December 11, 2026, with pre-orders available now.
For Houston hip-hop fans, this is one worth adding to the collection.
DJ Alkemy's Rotation: 5 Picks Worth Hearing
Great DJs do more than play music. They introduce us to artists we might otherwise overlook, connect sounds across generations, and help us discover our next favorite song.
DJ Alkemy has a deep appreciation for musical craftsmanship and artists who aren’t afraid to experiment. He’s always listening for something that stands out, whether it’s an unexpected arrangement, an incredible voice, or a fresh take on a familiar sound.
Each month, DJ Alkemy will share five albums he’s been playing and tell you what makes them worth hearing. Here’s what caught his ear this month.
Eric Bellinger, Eric Bellinger "A new R&B artist with an old soul and a voice of gold!”
Durand Bernarr, BERNARR. “Vocal excellence meets pure creativity, comedy, and never-ending energy.”
Chaka Khan, Chakzilla “Chaka is back with a feel-good rhythmic sound.”
Erykah Badu & The Alchemist, Before the World Blows “Badu and The Alchemist team up for a melodic masterpiece.”
Blxst, Labor of Love “Neo-soul meets R&B meets rap. This dude arranges his songs like a rapper, but he sings. Amazing!”
Let us know what you think about these picks.
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