In a time when artistic integrity seems all but lost on a generation of younger artists enslaved by recording contracts and corporate holders that value money OVER integrity, it can be easily forgotten that there are some artists with an independent streak who are releasing wonderful music in 2007. Here are my current favorites...

Annie Lennox: Songs Of Mass Destruction - Annie Lennox has returned with her fourth studio record since 2004's Bare. 'Songs tends to reflect Lennox's political view of the world. Always an outspoken artist, the album blends pop/rock with jazz and blues; "Coloured Bedspread" sees Lennox playfully re-visiting her earlier synthpop Eurythmics days. Songs Of Mass Destruction is a must have for any true music fan.

Me'shell N'degeocello: The World Has Made Me The Man Of My Dreams - Me'shell  returns with her follow up to 2003's Comfort Woman, 'The World finds me'shell blending sulful balladry with a punk aesthetic. Not one to mince words "World' covers everything from Religious fanaticism, Politics and sexuality.

Joni Mitchell: Shine - After Leaving the music business and becoming a painter, Joni Mitchell returns with Shine, her first record in many years. Blending folk with jazz, Shine raises concerns about the environment and takes aim at the war profiteers. Always timely, Mitchell never misses a beat.

Jody Watley: Super Hits Live - After independently releasing The Makeover" (first ever deal through the Virgin Mega store's chain) in 2006, 2007 sees the entrepreneureul Watley releasing Super Hits Live through Sony/BMG – a live recording culling tracks from Watley's 'Makeover shows through the past year. Highlights Include the bossa nova version of Watley's "Don't You Want Me", the funk reworking of "Still A Thrill" and an accoustic version of "A Beautiful Life" (taken from The Makeover). Copies are hard to find, but worth the wait!

All of these women are changing the world in various ways simply be being themselves. Let's hope the world takes notice!