Birdland Summer Music Series presented by Miller Lite

Years from now when it's all said and done, music historians will surely debate the contributions of those who majorly impacted the genre of R&B. Icons guaranteed to be mentioned are industry stalwarts such as The Temptations, The Four Tops, The O'Jay's, The Jackson Five, New Edition, Guy, Jodeci, and Boyz II Men. However, any list that does not include the incomparable Dru Hill is grossly inaccurate. The torch bearers responsible for carrying R&B music into the new millennium was the labor of love for four immensely talented young singers who were and remain the quintessential example of superior entertainers. From their first single, "Tell Me" (what you want), Dru Hill has been giving fans what they need in the form of numerous classic love ballads and infectious dance songs that have provided countless beautiful memories for millions upon millions of music lovers the world over. Named after a popular Baltimore Park, Dru Hill is comprised of “NOKIO”, “SISQO”, “SMOKE”, and “BLACK”.

A look back at Smash Mouth’s formative years show us a band determined to make an impact from the get-go. Formed in late 1994, the band immediately begins recording demos and showcasing in both San Jose and Hollywood, CA. In June of 1997, Smash Mouth is signed to Interscope Records when label brass catch wind of an unknown (and unsigned) band being ADDED to highly influential L.A. radio station KROQ’s playlist after only one spin of their song “Walkin’ On The Sun”.

But without doubt the most exciting news for Smash Mouth in 2019 is the reunification of their classic and most relevant line-up. With dovetailing and galvanizing new energy/serendipity, 2019 can be nothing but a watershed year for the legendary, several times-platinum, veteran pop-stars from San Jose.

Dee Dee Roper, internationally known as DJ Spinderella, is a Grammy award winning DJ, producer, rapper, writer and world class mother. Spinderella is one of the original pioneers of hip hop music beginning her career as a member of the iconic rap group Salt-N-Pepa, selling over 15 million albums and singles worldwide. Over two decades after her groundbreaking entrance into hip hop, the Brooklyn native still sets the standard for “turntablisit” all over the world and is still a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. It has never been simply about cuts, beats, and rhymes says the Grammy, MTV, and BET Award Winner. “I’ve been blessed to be in the game for so many years, when many others have come and gone,” says Spinderella.

In 2019, DJ Spinderella officially announced her future plans to continue building her brand as an independent artist — to much fanfare and excitement. She performed both international and domestic gigs while mentoring up-and- coming DJs and entrepreneurs. From BET to People Magazine, Spinderella was celebrated in media for embarking on an inspiring new chapter in her career. Spinderella’s mentorship of other young DJs was proudly honored and displayed by household name brands like Barbie (Mattel) and Good Morning America.