Album Notes

25 STRONG " a soulful soundtrack compiled by Russell Johnson and George Littlejohn, in conjunction with EDCLECTIC ENTERTAINMENT, of fourteen hand picked songs, that feature some of the most talented independent soul artists in today's market. This soundtrack, to the documentary of the same name, also showcases the depth and diversity of the independent soul movement. The project begins with the smooth funk of COOLYS HOT BOX 's "After Life" which features the vocals and production of ANGELA JOHNSON, then newcomer singer-songwriter DARIEN steps to centerstage with the stellar "The Road ," MAYA AZUCENA gives us her brand of hip-hop soul with "G-Hetto," teen soca star PATRICIA ROBERTS tune "Determined "epitomizes one of the messages this documentary is conveying. Further showcasing both the diversity of this soundtrack and indie soul are contributions from afro-beat sensation ANTI-BALAS, beyond category artists PEVEN EVERETT, JULIE DEXTER and TORTURED SOUL. . Muli-talented singer -- songwriters CARMEN ROGERS, MONET, ROBIN SMALL and ASAPH WOMACK are also featured.

Some very special treats , including rare songs , first time on CD , "K-LEG" by ANTIBALAS, " OPEN UP " a club classic also first time on CD , featuring DJ SPINNA and the NEW RADICALZ , as well as " WELCOME TO MY GHETTO " by PEVEN EVERETT , another club classic. Vernon Reid of LIVING COLOUR lends his incredible guitar playing to " HOLLA " a truly poignant hip -hop tune by the JIGMASTAS

The documentary itself is about basketball and about life. It is a celebration of KEVIN BUSHELL who started the first preteen basketball tournament and dedicated much of his adult life to it.