Best R&B/Pop Record (Unsigned/Independent) of 2009

I picked Justin Garner's "When The World Ends". To me, it just sounded more epic.

Very impressive nominations line-up though. I know Brandon Hines got a good underground fanbase, and Adela's vocals are awesome (though I wish she had more of an online presence). However, if I were Slaka the Beatchild, I'd be super excited (last year's runner-up in this category ended up being the one whose song here would become a #1 hit)

Adela could be going places in 2010. Ill be on the lookout for anything from her.

This year DJBooth's nominations were just... a bit too off. I found myself disagreeing with many selections compared to last year's selections.

Pure's "Sample" >> Pure's "Superstar"
RaSun's "That Girl" >> RaSun's "Can’t Get u Off My Mind"
Justin Garner's "Runaway" >> "There Will Still Be You"

Surprised to know "Can't Breathe" didn't get selected as Staff Pick since @Burmy had a major role behind selections this Year. ;-)

Glad to see I got proved wrong and handed out a reminder for why DJBooth Crew is the best and most unbiased Hip-Hop web magazine. Please accept my apologies for ever doubting y'all.

Oh, and I voted for Slakah The Beatchild, one half of the creative duo Art of Fresh. His "Soul Movement Vol. 1" album flows seamlessly from track to track, meaning that it's most enjoyable when played as a whole. Although there are hooky songs and several catchy moments, the album is mostly about establishing a vibe. Check it out!

i was down w/either Adela or Pure. i think the staff got it right.

any song by Justin Garner should of won.

I agree with Mr. Top Hat, some of the choices to pick from where a little off so it means some of these winning picks are tainted in my eyes.

For the record, I picked Find You, its probably the only R&B track from a independent that I find myself listening to every now and then.

This was my hardest pick because I wasn't much a fan of any lol

Imma, have to go with the Readers' on this pick.
Brandon Hines & Ryan Leslie have an unstoppable blend of neo-soul and the track compliments them very well. The timing is top notch.
Adela's track did not do her any justice. Although she has a beautiful voice the track did not allow it to be showcased. She kinda floated above the track and did not blend well, blame it on the mastering; what have you but diffidently use another track; one for soulful from the heart. Feel me?

PBi