I’m a big fan of independent artists who have not gotten caught up in the unfortunate gimmickry that mainstream artists useo to make big bucks while offering very little in musical integrity. Though the status of independent or underground does not necessarily equal “good music,” it is safe to say that more focus is often on producing a musically sound product as opposed to a socially acceptable image.

I enjoy good music and like to get caught up in the mood of a CD—not necessarily the antics of an artist’s life (though, I must admit, I am curious about whether Jay-Z and Beyonce will get married).

Therefore, this month, I want to share with you my end-of–the-year 2007 music picks by homegrown artists. All of these artists have been covered this past year by East of the River in various ways and we will continue to keep you updated on their success.

What is more fabulous than listening to a hot track by an artist that you probably passed on the street yesterday or grew up with way back when? As you scramble to make that last minute purchase for a loved-one, check out these local artists and decide to bring them into your home as you bring in the New Year.

Artist: Green Tea
Hometown: SE
CD Title: Have a Cup of Tea: Dosage I Shades of Green
Music Genre: R & B
You’ve Probably Last Seen Her At: Can a Sista Rock a Mic Festival, U Street Music Scene
Sounds Like: Green Tea’s voice is in a class all by itself, but could possibly remind you of a touch of Chrisette Michelle vocally with lyrics that are as strong and womanly as Beyonce. Green Tea’s songs range from musings on day to day living to odes to new and old loves.
Favorite Picks on the CD: My personal favorites are the artfully arranged “Queen” which is my new anthem and the song “Music (Inspire)” which is a call for more uplifting and inspirational music. The whole CD is regular-rotation worthy.
Last Word: A definite stocking stuffer for the working woman in your life. Purchase it at www.have-a-cup.com

Artist: Afi
Hometown: NW
CD Title: Lovely
Music Genre: Neo-Soul, R & B
You’ve Probably Last Seen Her On: BET J
Sounds Like: One of the few local artists with a video and high exposure that allows her to participate in events world-wide. Afi’s vocal stylings are reminiscent of Faith Evans while her sound will appeal to fans of Jill Scott, Ledisi and young Aretha Franklin.
Favorite Picks on the CD: The video to the single “Baby It’s Cold Outside” is shown constantly on BET J and for good reason. The song is catchy, sexy and Afi is at her best vocally.  It is my favorite, along with the sweet “Unbelievable”—produced by Fort Washington-based producer Ben “Hook” Dawson. The reprise of the song follows and is wonderfully cute as her daughters chant to the song’s upbeat guitar strummings.
Last Word: Afi’s CD Lovely will be warmly received as a gift to your best girlfriend, your diva co-worker or your favorite aunt. Purchase it at www.afisoul.com

Artist: KuKu
Hometown: Nigeria/VA
CD Title: The Absence of Cool
Music Genre: Acoustic Soul
You’ve Probably Last Seen Him At: The Kennedy Center or The Old Post Office Pavilion
Sounds Like: Kuku is definitely an original, but the simple yet poignant music reminds you of Tracey Chapman and Fela Kuti. Kuku sings in his native tongue of Yoruba on many of the songs.
Favorite Picks on the CD: If I had to choose, “Dark and Lovely” would be at the top. I enjoy many of the songs sung in Yoruba even though I don’t understand what is being said. My favorite is probably “Baba La Lope” which is featured on his My Space page and is a song about peace. I think the entire CD is a winner.
Last Word: Kuku’s CD is a great buy for the friend who enjoys a wide-range of music. Purchase it at www.kukulive.com. Check out Kuku’s collaboration with Philadelphia-based MC Steph Pockets at www.stephpockets.net.