New Videos: Timbaland, R. Kelly

"Apologize," Timbaland featuring OneRepublic
I was not a big fan of Timbaland's last single - the awkwardly titled "The Way I Are." In fact, I've been disappointed with much of what I've heard from Timbaland Presents: Shock Value. I will confess, however, to a fondness for new single "Apologize," featuring the unknown OneRepublic - a group whose forthcoming debut will be released on Timbaland's own label. The LA group resembles a boy band (though they do play instruments) but the harmonies in the chorus and the Timbaland minimalism are hard to resist.


"Real Talk," R. Kelly
I am unashamed in my love R. Kelly, without attempting it to mask it as a guilty pleasure or, worse, "so bad it's good." I like R. Kelly because he takes chances. Where others would find a subject too mundane, the R dares to tread. Where others would be too embarrassed to expose themselves to obvious criticism, the R shows no shame. In "Real Talk," we hear Robert's side of the conversation in what appears to be a silly fight between him and his girlfriend. The video is low budget focusing on R in the studio with friends stuck in the conversation.