HoneySoul Hiatus
October 2009 marks my fifth year of blogging at HoneySoul.com. What a wonderful ride it’s been. As of today I’m jumping off the ride and hanging up my music blogger hat. I’m taking an indefinite hiatus. I’m still a music fanatic and zealous supporter. I just won’t be blogging about it. It’s just time for me to move forward. No sadness, no regrets, no tears. Just the joy of knowing I’ve done what I set out to do five years ago, help give soul music a voice and be a bridge by connecting some talented artists and the discriminating fans of good music. This is not an ending, just the beginning of the next adventure. I’m most looking forward to doing some traveling with my husband and spending the upcoming holidays with my family.
Speaking of family, I’d like to thank my honey souldiers, my online family who’ve been there to support, encourage and share this love of music. Whether you’ve been here since the beginning or just found the blog recently, please know that you made it all worthwhile. Thank you. To all the artists I’ve interviewed and posted about, thank you for letting me share your gift. To those who inspired me, helped me and opened doors for me, thank you. Thank you to my contributors and co-workers Lis, Jen, Daniel, Rob, Ben, Steve, Lauren, Kendall, Elliott, Kyle, Bobby, and Markus for all your love and help. I couldn’t have done it without you. To my fellow bloggers, especially my music bloggers, thank you for the example and the camaraderie. For the awards, the recognition, the comments, the emails, the tweets, the word of mouth and the positive thoughts, thank you. To all those I’ve come to know because of HoneySoul (too many to name), thank you. Finally, thank you to my husband whose support and love is immeasurable and invaluable. If I had to pay bills, buy food and keep a roof over our head based solely on the proceeds from this blog I would have had the shortest blogging career in history.
That brings me to the last part of this last post, LOVE. I did it all for love. I started this blog out of love for the music and the artists. I stayed for love. I leave still loving it and I would do it all over again, just for the love. When I look back on this blog I won’t remember any of the thousands of posts (and I suspect you won’t either). I will remember all the love I received and the people I’ve grown to know and love because I had this blog. I hope that you will remember and continue to support the music and artists you discovered here. I hope you’ll continue to spread the word about the best music in the world, soul. There are so many wonderful blogs and supporters out here I know I leave you in good hands. If you’d like to start your own journey to support and promote, just do it. If I can, you can too. I’m going to quote myself (hey it’s my last post I can do that). Anything great starts with love and visionaries see what’s not there. Remember that and remember this. Don’t accept the status quo. Don’t listen to the negative voices around you and sometimes in your own head. Do make your own opportunities and make your decisions and choices based on love. I did and had the most amazing, life changing experience. Thank you for sharing it with me. See you later.
Lots of Love,
Honey
I’m in shock…but as Prince said…Sometimes all good things come to an end. I love Honey and I wish you and your family the best! (and you know how us bloggers do…we usually resurface somewhere! ;) lol)
—DJ Divawow, wasn’t expecting this. hey, do you, as you’ve always done. i remember being immediately impressed by your site when i stumbled upon it several years ago and i still remain impressed by your drive and passion for the music. all the best to you in your future endeavors as well as to your husband and family. respect due…
—macedoniaEnjoy your time traveling with your hubby. Thank you for all the wonderful things that you have done over the years. And thanks for supporting LMN! Its all LOVE!
–Chantay/LMN
—thelatestmaxwellnews.comPeace Be With You
Wow I didn’t see this coming!! You will be missed & there is no one that can fill your shoes. Thanks for everything you’ve done! Enjoy your new journey and you will not be forgotten.
—VelisaYou’ve truly been nothing less then a God send to me & my music. I’m sure I’ll see you around these social network parts, but I just wanted to say from the bottom of my heart “THANK YOU, Thank you, ty.” :)
—Ramel*salute*
—DJStylusHey mama,
I have to say, this is a huge shock, but I respect you for your decision and I am forever grateful for your significant contributions to this community!! I hope we continue to keep in touch and share our yoga experiences, and hear about your life’s adventures. much much love to you!!!
xxoxo
—Heather ParkThank u for being a virtual voice in Soul Music! I just came on board the train but I am so grateful to have had the chance to read about the music I love the most from your pages. All the Best!
—Dezaray DawnWhat? But I just discovered you!
Well, now I’m just going to have to back-scroll through this wonderful blog. Continued success on your future endeavors. I seriously don’t know what I’m going to do without you.
—Philip ClarkI’ma miss ya, girl! Have fun out in the real world. ;)
—S.K.They say good things don’t last forever, although in your case, I wish they did.
I will miss you immensely!
Love your sista in sweetness and zodiac,
Sista Suga the Virgo
—Sista Suga (Pam)Wow. I am going to miss you sorely!! :( :(
love you Honey…thank you so much for introducing to so many artists that I have come to love a lot.
Take care
—ceeceeAHHHHHHH WHAT WHAT WHAAAAAAT???
Dag Sis, I’m gonna miss you so much…. I’m just now checking your blog as I do everyday before getting off of work so I’ll know what to look forward to once I got home…… ;(
You and yours take care….I’m certainly going to miss ya. Thanks for everything.
D.
—dj smoove1967 {derek}I am going to miss you. I use your site as the go to place for new music.
Enjoy your travels and your new adventures.
—RemnantsWill miss you much Honey!
—JayYou have got to be kidding! I have only just discovered this site. Please change your mind, I’m going to miss you!
—Natasha:( nooo don’t go! Honey Soul will be truly missed. Best wishes.
—MaiThis is a sad day in blogging history. I will truly miss all the new music you have turned me on to, I’m gonna miss reading about your Dwele, Maxwell & Prince stan moments. I hope whatever life brings your way, will be as fulfilling to you, as you were to us. Thank you Honey.
Sometimes it snows in April, I sometimes I feel so sad, Sometimes I wish life was never ending, but all good things they say never last…….
—KeyknowYou will be dearly missed, for sure…You have blessed the music artists and their listeners with your undying love, support, and dedication…God bless you in your future endeavours and ventures!
Much love!
—Sunshine (Musical One)Hey Hon-V…
This is definitely not a good bye, but I totally understand your decision to move on from the blog world. Your contributions will never be forgotten. I wish you well on your next endeavors. I will be checking in on ya from time to time.
Tell Mr. Woods that we said Hello! :)
Jam
—Jam aka SoundNexxAwwwwwww Honey! lol… Now you’re putting the other stake in my heart huh? First you stopped with the mixes and now this too!! Oooooouuuuccch!!! lol.. gee whiz.. Anyway, thank you and God Bless you and your fabulously spoiled hubby.. :-) You will be beyond missed!! Thank you for helping me to discover some incredible artists and music and reminding me of what love and passion for great music can feel like. It’s been amazing! Now let me see if I can go call Prince and tell him to make you come back!! lol… :-) Much much much love!
—AnthonyMAN IM SAD AS HELL! BUT I KNOW IN LIFE EVERYTHING MUST CHANGE…BUT DAYUM DAYUM DAYUM!
—TJ BROWNOK IM DONE
WILL MISS YOU…LOVED YOU FROM THE BEGINNING!
LOVE YOU NOW AND ALWAYS!
Sorry to see you go…I’ll certainly miss you. One of the great music blogs on the net. Best wishes in your future endeavors.
—mindpinballWell even though I’ve only experienced you for a year I wish you the best…..it is bittersweet because you were literally the window to my soul (music). You need to be CEO of VH1 Soul because you really know your music. The Best to u and ur family!
—AntMaysHi Honey,
Like many others here, I found this blog four and half years ago. Honeysoul.com and other upcoming soul music blogs have become a breath of fresh air for those looking for something different, as far as musical tastes go. I will miss everyone here.
Because of Honeysoul, Soulbounce, and Brown Sugar, I have been turned on to underground soul artists (too many to name!) and have subscribed to the podcasts, and bookmarked the HS forum/links.
Thanks to you and the Honeysoul.com bloggers/staff for all of your hard work and dedication and giving the 411 to music fans all over the globe.
Thanks again for everything. Enjoy yourself. You have earned it.
Peace,
oldskoolsista (formerly BH)
—oldskoolsistaDang Honey! Unlike others, I only discovered the blog in the last year or so, so I’m bummed to see it ending already. But five years deep, blogging so regularly and in depth about soul music is a long time and a lotta effort for anyone and I wish you all the best in the next episode of life.
Thanks so much for featuring my music on here, I’m honored to have had your support.
All the best,
—Glen CoatesGlen
Honey, Mrs. Honey… *grin*
We will miss you. I don’t think you know just how much.
There are SO many of us that will most definitely feel the void of your presence. I know whatever you embark on next, you will do it with the same gumption, smile and cheery disposition of yours. Continue on your path, with a spring in your step love.
Very honored to have been featured on your blog and to be able to call you friend. Thank you for EVERYTHING!
L,
The Angel (see my halo? HA! LOL)
—ThaConnoisseurI love you too Honey!! This blog has been such a blessing to me. I don’t think I can ever forget when we found out about Maxwell releasing his latest album. I have so many great memories about this blog. I hope that you continue to do what you feel in your heart to do.
Peace and Blessings,
—ImadeImade
Well…for some reason I was surprised when I told me the other day. Probably because I know you will be back, recharged & renewed, sharing what you love in some way. So until then..enjoy & go easy (especially in yoga LOL).
Much love & be well!
Kai (MissKai)
—MissKaiAww Honey, I’m shocked and saddened.
You really held it down for soul music.
Good luck to you on all your future endeavors.
—PierreThank you everyone for your kind words & well wishes. Your outpouring of love is overwhelming and so appreciated.
I can feel the love! I’m going to miss you all but all your comments prove the basic premise of this blog and so many like it, one positive voice can make a difference.
—HoneyWow! The end of an era. I’ve enjoyed the ride from the very beginning. You are the best music blogger I’ve read and your blog will leave a huge gap in the music world. Enjoy your free time. I know this was a huge weight off your shoulders. Love can only take you so far. We love and appreciate the time and dedication you invested in building this site.
—BerryI’m not completely surprised, but then again. . . I didn’t want to believe this day was possible. I’ve been there since ‘04 and your evolution of this blog and your passion has inspired me in more ways than I can capture in a comment. I understand that change is evident. I can’t say I’m not sad or even a bit hurt. . .but it’s a “growing pain.”
There are several souldiers (including me) that will continue to carry the torch – but we could NEVER replace your sincerity, positive spirit and incredible smile that shines all over everything you touch.
I am going to miss you very, very much. You and your husband continue to have a fantastic life and hopefully you’ll peek your head in here and there :D
Be blessed.
—FaveLet me join in the chorus with just “Wow!” I knew I could come to honeysoul.com to find the best music that wasn’t getting airplay and to hear interviews from my favorite artists. Thank you for sharing your passion and your love with us for so long. Be blessed.
—TalibSista Honey
On behalf of myself, ONUTSS, V and the hundreds of artists we’ve co-signed about over the years, I salute you with unyielding love! You’ve become a friend, a co-hort, a shoulder and a sister in the game. I can’t tell you how I feel you on this one (PlanetSoul, MosaicThump and now you…sigh) — many more days come my way than I care to reveal when I just want to be an obscure fan again.
Give Jimmie Jam my love (smile) and y’all continue to keep living, laughing and riding for one another!
You’re my shero for real for real!
Much love
—TrellyI personally want to thank YOU for this journey…the music you have exposed all of us to has truly enhanced our lives and our ears. As part of Afternoon Groove Radio, you have definitely made our (DJ Vinnie V and DJ Soulgiver) show better and a pleasure to put together-I have no shame in saying that you are a tastemaker and treasure to soul music as we know it…enjoy your family and your hiatus-see you down the road…..Peace
—DJ Soulgiveryou will be truly missed. you were my link to good, great, unheard, fresh music and artist. I think you put a lot of new artist on the map. Enjoy your hiatus and just hit us with something every once in a while :) also i am follwing your on twitter.
—crazybutterIf there were a world prize for soul music blogging it would undisputedly be yours. I have always had nothing but love and support for what you have started. On behalf of your supporters in the the United Kingdom. I salute you and wish you the best in all your future works.
Much Love ad Respect.
Tosin TAO
—Tosin TAOYours was one of the first blogs we ever read and a big inspiration for me starting and continuing TSR. Thanks for all you have done in sharing your passion for great music with the world and also for being an all around great person to speak with period. Much success to you in your future endeavors sis…don’t be stranger either…there’s always FB and Twitter.
Peace & Blessings.
—SquarerootZ[...] News Side Note: TSR would like to give a special Shout Out/Thank You/You Will Be Missed to Honey of HoneySoul.com as she has decided to take an extended hiatus from writing her critically acclaimed blog this [...]
—And One To Grow On… « The SoulReservoirYou brought me to some great great music Honey and I’m gonna miss your posts blogs and music news – you definitely one of the best that ever did it, much thanks and much love!!
—Uniq BeatNooooo!!! I just found you! :( How will I get my fix now? ::deep sigh::
Good luck with your new adventures!! :)
—Chocl8tWOW sis – 4 deux comments?! That’s a LOT of love :-) HS.com will definitely be missed. I’m SO glad I have direct access 2u! hahaha
—anewlisDang……..That Sucks…. I love this site and view it daily. I was always amazed at how often there were updates. Good Luck on the travel….I’ll be traveling to find somwhere else to hear great music….but it won’t be easy to replace such a rare gem…..Thanx
—-Liquid Scorpio[...] So I thought I would give the good news first, isn’t that the way to do it? *sigh* In this instance, we are loosing someone VERY special in the blogosphere. In case you haven’t heard already: our girl Honeysoul has decided to hang up her blogging belt, to ease on down the road of life in front of her. There are no words that can even come close to saying what and how we all felt and continue to feel. But we know that whatever Mrs. Lady does, the people who encounter her spirit and smile, will be just as lucky as we were to learn SO much from her. We not only learned, but felt the positive vibes (and stalkeration she has for Dwele and Darien Brockington) every single day she posted. Honey has become a wonderful friend and I wish nothing but the best for her! We will miss you love! Please be sure to leave some love on her last post, you can do so here. [...]
—Musical Morsels… « SoulAfrodisiacThank you 4 sharing your love for music. Good luck in your new adventures…
—:the odWOW … I didn’t see this one coming! Then again the sheer number of daily updates has set us all an aspirational benchmark ;) lol
I naively stumbled across the site about 3 years ago in search of some quality soul music, and I found it in abundance. You have brought so many great artists to my attention, and kept my iPod chugging along in times of musical drought.
You were also one of a couple of blogs that inspired me to start up Soul:UK and spread the word. You did it for the love, nothing more, nothing less.
Good luck in whatever it is you do next, hopefully we’ll still get your thoughts and recommendations over on Twitter.
Thank YOU!
—SoulUKDamn, just by habit of my daily routine I opened up your site today even thought I know your on hiatus. Hopefully you will miss us so much that you will come back. In the meantime, how long will keep this site up…..hope to have some time to go back through the archives.
—AnthonyThanks everyone again. I’m so loving your comments.
On the future of this blog, I will be leaving the blog archives up.
I may change the front page sometime in the future (possibly to the music store http://honeysoul.com/musicstore ) but I’ll leave a way for you to go through and search the archives.
—HoneyHoney, you can’t leave us all here alone!!! Wow, you, gone from the blogosphere!!!!????? I am in shock!! Mouth hanging wide open! Dayum…But, I do understand. You have done such an awesome job that the impact is reverberating everywhere…much luv always…
—drakeWOW!! I could NOT believe it when I saw it. I’m SO upset that I’m gonna be able to come here… which I do everyday and here all this new music and learn about these new artists. And of course, you gave me the opportunity to participate on this site and get my feet wet in blogging. THANKS for the opportunity and your freindship. :)
—R7SoulKiddHoney,
Ugh….I don’t know how to feel right now. I remember both of us starting around the same time. You have always been an inspiration to me. I took a year hiatus and came back with a new set of eyes. I am praying that you take this time off, get your re-charge on and come back. I will miss you and your influence and participation in the community.
Jodine
—JodinescornerAwwwww….so sad to see you go Honey but I understand. Thanks for putting me on to so much good music. B/c of you, I’ve been able to spread the word to so many of my friends about the music that I learned/discovered from this great site. You’ll truly be missed but take care, enjoy yourself and your hubby and thanks for all of the hard work you put into this site. Extremely appreciated.
—kn519HoneySoooouuulll!
—OhsoKoolChange is inevitable, and I’m GLAD to have come into contact with you! Hopefully, my future wife and I will meet you two, on a tropical island soon and just chill.
We can blog about it later. :)
Im disapointed in myself that this is my first post, and ultimatley last post .I have never bothered to thank you for all of your years of hard work. You introduced me to many a new artist and news that wasn’t posted on other blog sites. You have made my ipod very happy over the last few years too. Much love and good luck to ya. x
—AndyIt’s been great having you here documenting the soul. Listening to the podcast and the interviews and reading your posts — it’s been wonderful all these years. Best wishes for you and your family!
—Mobile SoulGreatest. Soul. Blog. Ever.
—BPheezyNoooo! I love your blog! Unique, original content, and always great quality – you must have put in so much hard work. I have an RSS feed folder with my 5 favourite blogs in it and now it’s only 4. You’ve been a constant source of inspiration – I sincerely hope you return after a (short) break!
Thank you so much & take care.
—Amelia (Put Me On It)All the best hun! Loved following this blog :-)
—Matilda Egere-Cooperthank you for your time and effort over the years. take care.
—joeThank you. Thank you. Thank you. Like so many others, I was a silent follower of your fantastic blog and turned many of my friends on to you. Your taste in music is so similar to mine it is scary! From hip hop and neo-soul to old school – it was always enough to keep me listening for hours. Be well, and hopefully “The School of HoneySoul” will return.
—JenHoney,
Sometimes you’ve got to do what you’ve got to do. Much love, respect and praise. You are a special person and I wish you only the best for the future.
P.S. We always have the memory.
Nathaniel S Lewis
—Nathaniel Segree LewisUnited Kingdom
I hope all will be well with you. I’ve truly enjoyed your work. Peace and many blessings…
—Chuck Johnson / Soul 92 JamsI have to admit Im a little bit sad, I just got back the Internet and you’re not blogging anymor
:(
Enjoy your hiatus, thank you for all that you’ve done, big up from France
—PromeneurAll the best in the future. I enjoyed your blog immensely and hate to see you go, but am extremely happy for you. I drew a lot from your posting and promise to hold the torch.
—SethThank you for introducing me to some fantastic artists, some great music, and your lovely smile. God bless you and your family, lady.
—CedricThank you so much for your music. Your music came through loud and clear in Guatemala, and got me through some tough times.
—DavidI just discovered you when Michael Jackson passed.
Good luck on your new path.
—2damnfunnyi’m shock and sad……….
—kathyYou Will Be Greatly Missed .. Blessings To You And Yours…
- Shauna Mishel
—Shauna MishelThis is sad for me but I’m happy for you. You have definitely move soul music forward. Enjoy your time doing the things you LOVE and all the best to you and your family.
Enjoy the Holidays
Machina
—MachinaWell, I just discovered this site, and not too soon after did I find out you were going on hiatus. Too bad I couldn’t have been around years earlier because it seemed like a GREAT place for all things soul. I hope to pick up the slack on a site I recently started, so any fans of r&b check it out.
http://www.youknowigotsoul.com
—DJ SlamThank you from one Honey to another….
—Honey B FlyThank you Honey for being such a wonderful, supportive voice for all of us chasing this dream. Make the best of this hiatus. Know that you will be missed, but always appreciated.
—Carmen RodgersI know I’m late…but thank you so much Honey for creating honeysoul.com. We will miss you. Good luck in your new endeavors and enjoy your family. Happy Holidays :)
—Tamekia