This week was a special The Foreign Exchange (TFE) tribute edition of The Progressive Underground as we celebrated the group founded by Phonte Coleman and Nicolay Rook back in 2004. We chronicled their rise from a groundbreaking duo to a game-changing music ensemble with a burgeoning record label and music movement redefining the sound of progressive soul and conscious hip-hop while providing a multifaceted platform for independent artists.

We played tunes from the TFE catalog as well as individual works of its members such as Phonte, Matthijs Nicolay Rook, Zo! aka Lorenzo Ferguson, Carmen Rodgers and Tamisha Waden, while also mining cuts from artists on the TFE record label like Sy Smith, Bemyfiasco and YahZarah St. James. Plus, some TFE-adjacent artists like Eric Roberson (the king of independent soul), Maurice Pirahnahead Herd & Tee Diviniti Smith, Tall Black Guy Productions and many more! We give TFE and their family tree their flowers and celebrate them for the musical movement that they are.

See the playlist below and listen to the episodes on-demand for two weeks after it airs using the media player above.

The Progressive Underground Playlist for Nov. 16, 2024:

• “Milk & Honey” – The Foreign Exchange
• “Brave New World” – The Foreign Exchange
• “Take Off The Blues (feat. Darien Brockington)” – The Foreign Exchange
• “Make Me Fool (feat. Jesse Boykins)” – The Foreign Exchange
• “Right After Midnight (feat. Sy Smith)” – The Foreign Exchange
• “So What If It Is” – The Foreign Exchange
• “We Are On The Move (feat. Eric Roberson)” – Zo!
• “Role Play (feat Bilal)” – Leron Thomas
• “We Can Fly” – Nicolay
• “Sweet Love (feat. Jeanne Jolly)” – The Foreign Exchange
• “The Answer” – The Foreign Exchange
• “If This Is Love (feat. YaZarah)” – The Foreign Exchange
• “Flight of the Blackbyrd (4Hero Remix) [feat. Phonte]” – Zo!
• “Love Come Save The Day” – YaZarah
• “Flowers” – Sy Smith
• “Close To You” – Art Nap
• “Pretty Little Love (feat. Lola Violet)” – BeMyFiasco
• “Saturday Night (feat. Carlitta Durand)” – Nicolay
• “Wonderluv” – Darien Brockington
• “Lifetime” – Bain
• “Follow (feat. Carlitta Durand)” – Phonte
• “The Beauty of Life (feat. Carmen Rodgers)” – Pirahnahead & Diviniti
• “Lifelines (feat. Dornik)” – Zo!
• “Body” – The Foreign Exchange
• “The Brightest Star (feat. Phonte & Carmen Rodgers)” – Nicolay
• “Why Do You Keep Calling Me?” – Sy Smith
• “Don’t Wanna Be Your Lover” – BeMyFiasco
• “Hold My Hand (feat. Phonte/Muhsinah & Darien Brockington)” – Zo! & Tall Black Guy
• “Funk in the Hole (Nicolay Remix)” – Roy Ayers
• “No More Waiting (feat. Creative Theory)” – Nicolay
• “Better” – The Foreign Exchange
• “Something” – Phonte & Eric Roberson
• “Count to Five” – Zo!
• “Asking for a Friend” – The Foreign Exchange
• “Sun Rings/Uprising” – Nicolay
• “All The Kisses (feat. Paris & Amber Strother of KING)” – The Foreign Exchange

I have a track for you that is steeped in soul, grit and the tenacity of hip-hop royalty. This week’s Pick of the Week comes from none other than Charyse Marshall, aka Mahogany Jones, a name that reverberates with authenticity, power and the kind of lyrical mastery that makes you sit up and take notice. She doesn’t just step onto the track; she commands it. And if you’ve been following her story, you know she’s been a force since her days on BET’s 106 & Park “Freestyle Fridays,” where she didn’t just compete — she became the first four-time undefeated champion, setting a high bar for freestyle.

From her early days in New York to her reign in Detroit, Jones has sculpted a career that transcends borders. As a cultural ambassador for American Music Abroad and the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, she’s made hip-hop a global language, representing not just a genre but a movement. And now, Jones is back with her latest single, “Go,” featuring the sultry, soulful vocals of Detroit’s own Monica Blaire.

This track is whole a vibe, a layered experience that dips into the underground while embracing house and techno with a remix from Roberto “Ma$terPeace” Peace. The synergy between Jones and Blaire is electrifying, their voices effortlessly weaving through rhythm and melody. Jones’ lyrics are fierce, thoughtful and uplifting, a reminder of the resilience and beauty of Black womanhood, while Blaire’s hook is pure Detroit, grounding the track in a sonic landscape that’s as innovative as it is soulful. Check it out:

If deep grooves and underground energy move you, tune in every Saturday at 6 p.m., when The Progressive Underground takes you on a musical journey through future soul, techno, deep house, nu-jazz and those rare grooves that keep the spirit alive. See you next time, peace.

Stay up-to-date with Mahogany Jones at mahoganyjones.com.

Let me tell you, this week’s pick is nothing short of a revelation. Amber Mark, the bold and unapologetic artist who first commanded our attention with her 2022 debut, Three Dimensions Deep, has returned. Her latest single, “Sink In,” is not just a track — it’s a communion of sound and spirit, an invitation to experience the visceral pulse of after-hours grooves and an all-encompassing vibe.

Mark penned and produced this track herself, and it shows in every intricate layer. She’s crafted a rhythm that doesn’t just catch your ear; it ensnares your entire being, compelling you to, quite literally, sink in. The beat is anchored in a hypnotic, groove-laden bassline reminiscent of Giorgio Moroder’s disco mastery, yet transformed — shaped with jungle undertones and a 21st-century heartbeat.

And those piano flourishes? They swirl in the background, creating a landscape rich with emotion, suspense and the promise of dancefloor liberation. There’s a mystical quality here, wrapped in 808 beats that echo and reverberate, expanding the track’s sonic reach to feel like an immersive journey and a superb listening experience.

“Sink In” doesn’t just ask you to listen; it demands that you give in, that you allow the rhythm to take hold of you, to lead you to that place where time is irrelevant, and only the beat remains. Mark is giving us a taste of what’s to come with her upcoming EP, and if this single is any indication, we’re in for something truly exceptional.

If you’re as captivated by electronic dance fusion as I am, join us on The Progressive Underground every Saturday at 6 p.m. Here, we journey across genres — future soul, nu-jazz, deep house, B-sides, and those rare grooves you won’t find anywhere else. I’m Chris Campbell, and until next time, keep digging deeper.

Stay in tune with Amber Mark’s latest, from releases to tour updates, at ambermarkmusic.com.

On today’s 5-on-5, we dive into the world of Terry Dexter — a Detroit native, now Los Angeles-based musical powerhouse, whose journey speaks to the soul of the city. From a very young age, Dexter was captivated by music. Growing up in a family that embraced creative expression, she started singing in Detroit’s rich gospel circuit. Her influences included the legends — Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye and Whitney Houston — whose sounds inspired her to develop a voice that blends strength with sensitivity.

Dexter’s talent emerged early. By the time she was nine, she was fronting a local band, Tristar, gaining experience that laid the foundation for her career. As a teenager, she recorded with artists like Simply Red, sharpening her skills and immersing herself in Detroit’s vibrant music scene.

5 essential tracks by Terry Dexter

1. “Yeah”

Starting with her self-titled debut album, Dexter’s entrance into the industry was marked by a unique mix of gospel roots and contemporary R&B. Released by Warner Bros. in 1999, the song “Yeah” signaled her as a force to be reckoned with.

The release introduced audiences to her soulful vocal range and storytelling – a reflection of her Detroit upbringing and a nod to the Motown spirit that raised her.  The industry took note as Dexter would also become an in-demand vocalist on various other producer projects.

2. “Lay Me Down”

Dexter’s voice was later featured on “Lay Me Down” from Lost Change, a project by Black Eyed Peas producer and frontman Will.i.am. The 2001 album brought Dexter’s voice into hip-hop’s evolving landscape, showcasing her innate adaptability and passion for collaboration. The song explored themes of vulnerability and resilience, making it a standout tune on the eclectic album.

3. “Sister”

Dexter would release a sophomore album in 2008 called Listen, which represented one of her most personal works. Created in honor of her late mentor Sami McKinney, who introduced her to icons like Patti LaBelle, this masterwork was a healing journey for Dexter. The project’s soulful depth and poignant lyrics revealed her as an artist committed to creating music that uplifts and connects. The album’s track “Sister” is a testament to friendship, loss and resilience.

4. “No Maybe”

Having been raised in Detroit, Dexter was exposed to the city’s R&B-infused techno and house sound. It was just a matter of time before she would meld her soulful delivery over the driving beats of the house music genre, proving her versatility and connection to the house music tradition that also emerged from the city. “No Maybe” is one of her more recent deep house music selections, this time done in collaboration with producer Frankie Feliciano.

5. “With You (Reelsoul Vocal Mix)”

“With You” is her latest release, and another example of her Detroit deep house connection.

Dexter’s career is a testament to the power of versatility. In addition to her musical exploits, she is also an accomplished actress having acted in a range of film, television and theatrical/stage projects, most recently in the Lawrence Hilton Jacobs/Paula Jai Parker series, A House Divided (2019–2023). She is celebrated as a multi-faceted artist, whose achievements in R&B, film and theater reflect her resilience and adaptability.

Her artistry speaks to Detroit’s soul as a creator unbound by genre, whose work in music, film, and theater reflects resilience, authenticity, and a fearless commitment to self-expression. Her voice carries the rhythm of her hometown, blending its grit, history and hope.

If you dig artists who embody the spirit of true musical evolution, keep listening to The Progressive Underground every Saturday evening from 6-8 p.m. on 101.9 WDET-FM and wdet.org.

On this installment of 5 on 5, we’re diving into the music of Rebekka Ling to explore her soulful sound in five key tracks that paint a portrait of her journey as both an artist and storyteller.

Born in a musical home in Amsterdam with a gospel-singing mother and a percussionist father, Ling absorbed a variety of influences, from soul to jazz, gospel to hip-hop. She studied classical flute for seven years but found her voice was her true calling. Ling’s early career began as a backing vocalist with the hip-hop group The Proov, contributing to their EP and album, Traditions.

Shortly after, Dutch soul singer Berget Lewis invited her to join her tour, expanding Ling’s exposure to live performance. She would briefly study jazz at Amsterdam’s conservatory but soon followed her own creative path, collaborating with artists like Benny Sings and Sandra St. Victor in jazz and pop. Her own solo debut album, Travel Light would soon follow.

5 essential tracks by Rebekka Ling

1. “Travel Light”

“Travel Light” is the title track from her debut album, whose message to listeners was an invitation to shed our burdens and embrace the lightness of life. Released in 2012 on Phoenix Wood Records, Travel Light fused NuJazz, soul and R&B with hip-hop and gospel, capturing an uplifting, whimsical feel.

The album charted well on the Dutch R&B/soul charts and earned Ling an invite to perform at the North Sea Jazz Club.

2. “Fly Away”

“Fly Away” is another track from the same album that showcases Ling’s smooth, laid-back vocal style and her embrace of the ’60s-’70s soul and jazz sound. The production was helmed by Glenn Gaddum Jr, bassist for artists like Frank McComb and Matt Simons, and brought another subtle groove and nuanced texture to Ling’s voice.

3. “Keep Rising”

“Keep Rising,” released in 2021, was produced during the COVID-19 pandemic and speaks to life’s challenges with resilience. The track would be a pandemic anthem, reflecting on the importance of perseverance and spiritual connection. It’s a soulful testament to finding strength in struggle, with Ling’s unique sound deeply resonating. 

4. “Be Alright”

“Be Alright” is not only a fan favorite, but also part of the soundtrack to the British indie film, “Crown.” Filmed in London, this song underscored a pivotal theme in the movie: staying grounded through life’s turbulent moments. In this track, Ling’s soulful and hopeful delivery shines to the degree that it has become one of her signature songs, reminding listeners to maintain inner peace amid external chaos. 

5. “Dynamite”

“Dynamite” is a special single release that shows off Ling’s versatility, blending her jazz roots with a more soulful pop-infused sound.

Ling stands as a true force in the Amsterdam music scene and beyond. Her soulful sound, steeped in jazz, gospel and hip-hop influences, resonates with a profound sense of resilience and authenticity. With each release, she captures the heart of classic soul while pushing boundaries that bring her style into the modern era. From her roots in Amsterdam to a growing global audience, Ling’s artistry and upward momentum reflect an artist deeply committed to her craft and connected to her audience. Her journey is one to watch. 

If you’re into genre-blending soulful music artists like Rebekka Ling, tune in to The Progressive Underground every Saturday evening from 6-8 p.m. on 101.9 WDET-FM and wdet.org.

Following in the footsteps of legends like Alice Coltrane and Dorothy Ashby, harpist Brandee Younger has transformed one of the world’s oldest instruments, bringing it into the modern era. By blending innovative techniques with jazz and beyond, Younger continues to push musical boundaries.

Listen: A conversation with harpist Brandee Younger

The following interview has been edited for clarity and length.

On how her music journey started long before she began playing the harp:

I’ve always been deeply involved in music. In high school, I was voted most musical—not for the harp, but for playing the trombone in the marching band. My first instrument was the flute, but we had too many flute players, so my teacher asked if I’d switch to trombone.

The harp came into my life through a woman at my dad’s job who played it as a hobby. My parents, knowing my musical interests, introduced me to her. We played some flute and harp duets, and she suggested I take lessons. She mentioned that with the right skills, I could even get a scholarship—and that’s how my journey with the harp began.

On how she got her start releasing music by acting on the advice of her mentor, saxophonist Ravi Coltrane, and recording her debut project, the analog-driven “The Prelude” EP:

I wanted to record music but wasn’t sure where to start. I told Ravi Coltrane that I didn’t feel ready to make an album. He reminded me that recordings capture where you are at that moment, and that helped me shift my perspective.

So, I went into the studio, wrote a song called “So Alive,” and recorded a few standards. I sent the demo to Casey Benjamin, who told me, “Don’t make demos, just make albums.” That advice stuck with me, so I decided to put the project on Bandcamp. Music blogs picked it up quickly, and I made my money back fast. That’s how “The Prelude” EP came to life.

On how blending contemporary styles with the timeless sound of the harp has made her an in-demand session musician:

I’ve always loved recording more than performing, so I focused on becoming a session musician. I wanted the harp to be part of the music I was listening to, which wasn’t the classical music I was studying. By recording with artists who were making the kind of music I loved, I created a space for the harp in contemporary genres. This approach laid the foundation for the music I create today.

On how Detroit artists like Alice Coltrane and Dorothy Ashby have influenced her approach to the harp and why she celebrates their legacies:

This has always been intentional for me. The harp is often seen as a classical instrument, and I felt it wasn’t getting the respect it deserved outside of the orchestra. Dorothy Ashby’s discography is incredible, and her level of playing was unmatched, yet she wasn’t recognized the way she should have been. The same goes for Alice Coltrane. Early on, I decided to honor their legacies by including their influence in everything I do — whether through playing their compositions or creating new works inspired by them.

On how she continues to honor the legacies of Alice Coltrane and Dorothy Ashby on her latest album, “Brand New Life”:

With “Brand New Life,” I wanted to pay homage to Alice and Dorothy, but without making it a straightforward tribute album. We recorded some of Dorothy’s compositions that had never been recorded before, literally giving them a “brand new life” (no pun intended as she laughs). It’s a way of continuing their legacy through my own lens.

On how she wants audiences to experience her music through her ongoing tour, newly reformatted trio, and meaningful connections with artists and fans:

I want the music community to feel the sincerity in my work, especially now with my trio. Downsizing from a larger group to just three of us has been incredible. We have such a strong dynamic, both on and off the stage. It’s been a rewarding experience, and I hope that connection comes through in our performances.

To stay updated on Brandee Younger’s tours, events and releases, visit brandeeyounger.com.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, the daughter of Haitian immigrants, Melanie Charles grew up in a one-bedroom apartment in the projects before her family of 10 moved to Bushwick. From those humble beginnings, she found her way to jazz, studying at LaGuardia High School and later at The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music. Her path was unconventional, but she honed her craft and developed a penchant for blending jazz fundamentals with innovative beat-making, reimagining classics through a modern, exploratory lens.

1. “Without Us”

Her breakthrough came with her independent release The Girl With The Green Shoes — a criminally underrated album where she wove together her voice, flute, sampler and a variety of effects to create a deep, immersive, lo-fi quasi-mixtape experience. 

2. “Detour Ahead”

The Girl With The Green Shoes caught the attention of Verve Records, leading to her signing with the label. As she began work on her debut, however, tragedy struck: Breonna Taylor, a Black medical worker, was shot and killed by police in Louisville, Ky. during a botched raid on her apartment, touching off wide-scale demonstrations that erupted that year over policing and racial injustice in America.

Taylor’s death served as a harsh reminder of the fragility of Black women’s lives in America. Charles channeled her pain and passion into her music, titling her Verve debut, Y’all Don’t (Really) Care About Black Women. It was a bold statement that made Verve hesitate, but she stood firm, and they ultimately backed her.

3. “Jazz (Ain’t Nothing But Soul)”

In addition to making a poignant statement on racial injustice, Charles also pays tribute to the underappreciated Black women in jazz, reimagining the works of legends like Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald and Betty Carter while making a powerful statement about the ongoing struggle for recognition and respect.

This album became a manifesto for fair treatment and recognition of Black women in the music industry. It didn’t just resonate within the jazz community — it sparked a movement. Her fearless approach earned her collaborations with legends like Wynton Marsalis and solidified her place in the new and emergent jazz vanguard.

4. “I Need Time”

Her innovative style, combined with her commitment to activism, places her among a new generation of artists, such as Theo Croker, Ego Ella May, Kamasi Washington and various others who are redefining jazz. She’s not just making music — she’s making a statement, whether it’s through her work with her podcast project “Make Jazz Trill Again,” or through her electrifying performances. Melanie’s music is a call to empower and uplift Black women, celebrating their resilience and creativity.

5. “Damballa Wedo”

Melanie Charles will be performing at this year’s Detroit Jazz Fest on Saturday, Aug. 31 from 7:15-8:30 p.m. on the Carhartt Stage.