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Tonya Dyson (Interview & Performance) on Vh1 Soul "Soul Cities"

If we can agree that the legacy built by Stax Records christened Memphis Soulsville U.S.A., how fitting that in 2008 a new generation is breathing life into (and giving birth to) a new legacy in soul music, re-christening our fair city as Neosoulville. There are so many names that are a part of this important movement in music, and none are more dynamic or gifted than Tonya Dyson. A performer who exudes passion with every note, Tonya has shared the stage with the likes of Stevie Wonder, Justin Timberlake, Eric Roberson, Calvin Richardson, Algebra Blessett, Kindred, and Jaguar Wright. In other words, people, Tonya dont play.

This coming Tuesday night, December 9th, be sure and tune in to VH1s Soul Cities when host Nelson George goes deep, showcasing the best of Memphiss culture, food and music, in particular the deeply soulful strains of Tonya Dyson herself.

VH1s Soul Cities will premiere on VH1 Soul Tuesday, December 9 at 9PM ET/PT. Find My Way will be available from iTunes, Amazon, Rhapsody and other music retailers. Check back for complete details on how to purchase.

Most editorial choices are indeed subjective, comprised of the people we encounter through our comings and goings. They are based largely on what appeals to our creative sensibilities, pacifies our political leanings, or strikes our artistic nerve. In this tidbit, we must admit a slanting more personal than normal: not only is this artist talented and respected in her work and play she does it with us.

Neosoulville.com Founder Tonya Dyson will be featured this week on VH1 Soul for the network's Soul Cities show which digs to the root of cities that are historically partial to the blues and soul music...cities like New Orleans, Chicago, Oakland and Philly. Dyson represents the new generation of soul music coming to life here in the Bluff City. She has already shared the stage with phenomenal acts like Stevie Wonder, Justin Timberlake, Eric Roberson, Calvin Richardson, Algebra Blessett, Kindred, and Jaguar Wright, just to name a few. Currently, Dyson is working towards completing her solo project, which is a powerhouse of gospel-influenced soul stirrings that are reminiscent of Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan and Sarah Vaughan.

VH1 Soul will be here for five days, looking to shine the national spotlight not only on Memphis' rich musical heritage, but equally as important, the renaissance that is taking place on the local soul music scene today. Dysons performance will be filmed on Wednesday, July 16th at the Hattiloo Theatre (656 Marshall) at 7 PM. The event will be held in conjunction with her regular weekly production, Spokenherd, which offers an open-mic platform for local and regional poets and spoken word artists.