Mos Def - A Millie Freestyle
Mos Def - A Millie Freestyle
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Kosha Dillz, Yak Ballz, & Aesop Rock on Tour
By: Lolly
Kosha Dillz will be touring with Yak Ballz and Aesop Rock throughout the States in August as well as early September. Check the dates below:
8/20-Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
8/21-Washington DC @ Chief Ike's**
8/22-Columbus, OH @ Skully's
8/23-Chicago, IL @ Abbey Pub
8/24-Oshkosh, Wisconsin @ Reptile Palace**
8/25-Sioux Falls, SD @ Nutty's
8/26-Duluth. MN @ Pizza Luce
8/27-Minneapolis MN @ Ghastof's**
9/10-New York, NY @ Knitting Factory (Freestyle VS Written LP Release)**
9/14-Los Angeles, CA @ Troubador
9/15-San Diego, CA @ Air Conditioned Supper Club**
**The dates marked with stars are just Yak Ballz with Kosha Dillz. Aesop will not be playing these shows
Kosha Dillz will be touring with Yak Ballz and Aesop Rock throughout the States in August as well as early September. Check the dates below:
8/20-Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
8/21-Washington DC @ Chief Ike's**
8/22-Columbus, OH @ Skully's
8/23-Chicago, IL @ Abbey Pub
8/24-Oshkosh, Wisconsin @ Reptile Palace**
8/25-Sioux Falls, SD @ Nutty's
8/26-Duluth. MN @ Pizza Luce
8/27-Minneapolis MN @ Ghastof's**
9/10-New York, NY @ Knitting Factory (Freestyle VS Written LP Release)**
9/14-Los Angeles, CA @ Troubador
9/15-San Diego, CA @ Air Conditioned Supper Club**
**The dates marked with stars are just Yak Ballz with Kosha Dillz. Aesop will not be playing these shows
Rakim Signs! Seventh Seal = Spring 2009
By: Trees
HipHopDX is reporting that the god Rakim has finally signed a new deal and will release his long rumored project: The Seventh Seal on ::drumroll:: SMC Recordings. Yes, the label that is currently home to Killer Mike, Mistah F.a.b., & Pastor Troy will now bear responsibility to deliver a classic from one of the greatest MCs to ever grace the microphone. Will they deliver? Who knows - but they seem pretty excited about it according to the press release: “SMC Recordings signs the largest act in the history of the company”.
The Seventh Seal is now on tap to drop Spring of 2009 - almost TEN YEARS after the release of Rakim's last album - The Master. No further details of the album have been leaked at this time - but we will of course deliver the info as we learn about it.
undergroundhiphop.com
New Saigon “Chilly Boom” feat. Baby Cham
Saigon “Chilly Boom” featuring Baby Cham (produced by Just Blaze)
Thisis50.com turns Game’s album into a free mixtape?
Wow….there are absolutely no rules of engagement at this point. While Game and Young Buck were yelling “50 Cent can suck my d–k” onstage at Irving Plaza…..Thisis50.com was cooking up a vengeful (if not illegal) plan.
The folks from hiphopstan woke me up (who am I kidding. I don’t sleep….sigh) with a tip about a post on 50’s website for a “50 Cent: LAX Mixtape”….which is actually just Game’s album on a free download.
Diabolical.
Screengrab after the jump….
(more…)
missinfo.com
Trebeatz Explains Going From Barber To Beats On L.A.X.
Jake Paine
Compton rapper The Game [click to read] debuted in 2005 working with the veteran likes of Timbaland, Havoc, Buckwild and Dr. Dre for producers. Since then, the rapper has largely helped breaking producers get recognized both through singles, such as Reefa on "It's Okay (One Blood)" or Knobody on the recent "Game's Pain."
On his just-released L.A.X. [click to read], the rapper included a bonus disc on a deluxe edition of the album, with one producer who tells an unusual story of getting down with the self-proclaimed king of the west coast. On that bonus disc, TreBeatz produced "Spanglish" [click to listen].
Born in Compton, TreBeatz was a living, working barber in his early twenties through recently. Cutting hair is what got him close to his neighborhood's superstar, and Black Wall Street welcomed the barber to their vast recording sessions over the last year in the half. Little did The Game and crew realize, the money from cuts was quietly going towards an MPC.
After months of hanging with The Game, a beat CD was left, resulting in an unexpected phone call. "I was shocked that The Game enjoyed my tracks due to his many collaborations with some of the most influential producers of today. After just two years of creating music, being signed to Black Wall Street and certified by The Game as one of the hottest upcoming producers in the industry right now is truly a blessing. To know that all my hard work is paying off and I am accomplishing my dreams, right now I can't ask for anything more."
Since signing as a producer to BWS, TreBeatz has produced a handful of unreleased tracks with The Game, and is working with Busta Rhymes [click to read], Clyde Carson and Tyga [click to read].
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Mr. Lif Plans Groundbreaking Music Release Method
Jake Paine
Boston-born, Philadelphia-based emcee Mr. Lif [click to read] is most known for reaching the contemporary underground Hip Hop community with conventional views on the culture in songs like "Because They Made It That Way." Starting this September, however, Lif is stepping into tomorrow with their approach to releasing musical content.
Themed around this year's election, leading up to Election Day (November 4), Lif is recording, mixing, and digitally released one to two singles every week. The full album, titled I Heard It Today, will then release on January 20, the day of the next American President's inauguration. The singles will feature what's being billed as "cutting-edge political commentary."
According to Mr. Lif, "With a new administration on the horizon, many of us are hoping things will change for the better. We are all hoping our voices will be heard and our concerns met with solutions. This project allows me to voice and magnify the all too often ignored opinions of the American people. My research has led me to speak with so many citizens nation wide, and the stories of your struggles combined with the knowledge of my own struggles have given birth to the project now known as I Heard It Today."
The album features production from Edan, J-Zone [click to read] and Illmind [click to read].
The emcee is also releasing weekly "presidential reports," audio commentary on social and political issues through his MySpace page [click here].
Cool & Dre, DJ Green Lantern Join Loud Battle
Multi-platinum producers Cool and Dre and DJ Green Lantern are among the beatmakers participating in this year’s Loud.com Online rap battle.
The 20-week long contest, which kicked off earlier this month, will allow registered Loud.com users the opportunity to enter the competition, by using the site’s online recording studio to upload original compositions for 99 cents.
In addition to Cool and Dre and Green Lantern, contestants can choose new tracks produced by Sha Money XL, Havoc of Mobb Deep and DJ Khaled to lay vocals over.
The Online Rap Battle is one of two contests launched by Loud.com.
The web site also kicked off its Producer Challenge for aspiring music producers.
Rap Battle participants can select registered and uploaded beats from the Producer Challenge to aid them in their competition.
One winner will be chosen from the Producer Challenge, along with 10 finalists from the Online Rap Battle.
The winning producer will take home $15,000 as well as a production deal through SRC/Universal Motown. Cool and Dre will serve as judges for the Producer Challenge.
The winner of the Online Rap Battle be rewarded with $100,000 and a recording contract with SRC/Universal Motown.
More than 2,000 entries have been cast for the competition’s first round. Finalists and winners will featured in season two of the Loud.com webisode series The Finalists.
According to the site’s CEO Steve Rifkind, the contests serve as a vehicle for his company to "present all creative instruments for the Loud.com community.
"By providing an improved platform to our users, we hope to make the talent pool even better this time around, and find the next hot aspiring MC and producer we can absorb into the SRC Records/Loud.com family," Rifkind said in a statement.
Among those benefitting from the exposure of the Online Rap Battle was last year’s winner Tha Crow.
The rapper is gearing up for the release his official mixtape.
The DJ Warrior-hosted project comes as Tha Crow is currently working on his debut album, which will be released on SRC/Universal Motown.
Game Ends Beef With Joe Buddens, Brings NYC Rappers To Party
The Game treated his New York fans last night (August 26) to an all-star list of guest MCs, as Young Buck, Joe Budden, Jim Jones, Fat Joe, and Kool Herc made appearances at his album release party at the Filmore.
Former rival Joe Budden was the first surprise guest.
Far removed from their 2005 battle which saw numerous diss records thrown back and forth, the New Jersey lyricist performed “Pump It Up” and “Who Killed Hip-Hop” with Game in the role of hypeman.
Young Buck also took the stage to taunt his former G-Unit family, who he stated was just “the Unit” without his presence.
Making light of his reported money problems, the Nashville MC presented Game with a diamond-incrusted watch from his new “Ten-A-Key” Collection, to which the Compton MC joked “I thought you was broke n*gga?”
The two went on to resurrect the infamous “G-U-Not” campaign to the crowd’s roaring approval.
With Fat Joe in attendance, Buck clarified to fans that their former beef had been resolved with his dismissal from G-Unit.
Showing respect to Hip-Hop’s roots, Game brought out Hip-Hop founder Kool Herc and physically bowed down in tribute to the man who birthed Hip-Hop culture.
Touched, Herc announced his love for Game’s musical contributions and declared his favorite Game record is “Hate It or Love It.”
The show ended with Jim Jones, the first New York rapper to collaborate with Game outside of G-Unit.
They performed their hit “Certified Gangstaz” to the delight of the raucous crowd.
Not done, Jones continued on with selections from his own catalogue such as “Love Me No More” and “Byrdgang Money.”
Other guests included Maino, who performed his hit “Hi Hater,” and Ghostface Killah and Raekwon.
The latter pairing performed selected Wu classics and the Game/Raekown L.A.X. collaboration “Bulletproof Diaries.”
The Game’s highly anticipated third LP L.A.X. was released yesterday (August 26), and features a staggering list of guest artists: Nas, Lil Wayne Raekwon, Chrisette Michele, Raheem DeVaughn, Common, Bilal, Ludacris, Ne-Yo, Keyshia Cole, and Ice Cube.
Production for the set is handled by Kanye West, Hi-Tek, Cool and Dre, and DJ Toomp.
The album is favored to debut at #1 next week on Billboard’s Top 200 album chart.
allhiphop.com
Mistah F.A.B. Forms Group N.E.W. Oakland
Bay area rapper Mistah F.A.B. has teamed with upcoming rappers Beeda Weeda and J-Stalin to form the group N.E.W. Oakland.
An album from the group will be released through Town Thizzness, which is a new partnership between Thizz Nation and its distributor SMC.
The goal of the new union is to introduce a new crop of Bay Area rappers into the music business, according to Thizz Nation's CEO, Stretch.
"The concept is to take buzz worthy acts or conceptual projects from Oakland, CA- make great albums, sell them cheap to introduce them and slowly but surely start building fans," Thizz Nation CEO Stretch explained to AllHipHop.com.
Thizz Nation released two high profile Bay area albums in 2007, including Da Bidness, which featured PSD Tha Drivah, Keak Da Sneak & Messy Marv and Mistah F.A.B.'s Da Baydestrian.
In addition to the N.E.W. Oakland album, Town Thizzness will release three solo albums by upcoming Bay Area rappers.
Beeda Weeda's Da Thizzness is due in stores August 26, J-Stalin's Gas Nation hits shelves on September 23, while G-Stack's Dr. Purp Thump has a release date of October 21.
allhiphop.com
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Method Man Says Hip Hop Was Better In The '90s
By Anthony Springer Jr
With a dissatisfaction with the state of Hip Hop seemingly at an all time, another veteran emcee is weighing in on the game in the 21st century. In a recent interview with The Press Association, Method Man says that Hip Hop was better in the '90s—and backs up his allegation by citing several artists.
"The music was way more grounded than it is today. Today, you don't feel the movement. Back then, you felt the movement," he says.
While many artists today say they have “movements” of their own, Method Man elaborates on what he meant. "I mean, the whole Hip Hop movement. Like when Wu-Tang Clan came in, it was like regardless of where we went, people knew who we were. Or if we were in a new city, there was one person who knew who we was, and that would spread to 10 more people, and so on and so forth, up until it was, 'Oh, you ain't up on that Wu-Tang stuff? Oh you ain't down homie!'"
For those who want to accuse Meth of having an east coast bias, he also shouts out several pioneers of southern and west coast Hip Hop.
"Same thing with Cash Money, No Limit, Death Row - it goes on and on, all these movements. You don't have that any more."
Faith Evans Book Recounts Biggie/Tupac Triangle
By Andreas Hale
It’s been over a decade since the deaths of Tupac and Biggie Smalls. But there are still a plethora of questions that linger since their untimely passing. One of those issues that has never found resolution has been the supposed love triangle between Tupac, Biggie and Faith Evans. Miss Info has gotten her hands on the ex-wife of Christopher Wallace's upcoming autobiography titled Keep The Faith where the widowed singer reveals her relationship with both rappers during a beef that ended with two historic figures in Hip Hop being slain.
In recounting one incident with Biggie over Tupac, Faith admits to cheating on B.I.G. but it wouldn’t be with Tupac.
“I had to think of how I would reassure Big that nothing happened with ‘Pac,” Faith says in her book. “I hadn’t been completely innocent. While I was in Los Angeles, I’d had sex occasionally with Terry Dollars. And I’d even seen Roger, the NBA player, a few times when he was in town. So technically, I had cheated on Big. But not with Tupac.”
Faith does also document how her relationship was with Tupac as she cites an occasion where she went to pick up a check from ‘Pac for a guest appearance on a song. She explains in great detail the paranoia surrounding Tupac and how he felt that he was set up by Biggie and Diddy. Upon arriving at the studio, she recalls how ‘Pac treated her.
“'The situation with the money is like this,’ he said. ‘If I give it to you, then you my bitch.
‘Your what,” I said. I felt a chill go up my back.
‘You heard me. You gotta be my bitch’.
I got up and moved farther away from where he was standing.
‘I’m not anybody’s bitch,’ I said, trying to keep my voice steady.
‘You Biggie’s bitch.’”
From there, things went from bad to worse according to Faith.
“‘So you not trying to suck my dick?’
‘What!’ I screamed. ‘What are you talking about?’
Tupac raised his voice. ‘You know you want to suck my dick, bitch! Don’t fucking lie.’ I burst into tears and grabbed my purse. ‘I have to get outta here.’
Tupac kept going. He was making no sense, cursing and yelling. He said something about Big and the East Coast.
‘But…but…I…thought y’all were friends,’ I said. At this point, I could barely speak clearly because I was crying so hard.
‘Whatever. You know you wanna be my bitch’ he said, before going into the bedroom area and slamming the door.”
No date has been set on the release of the book but it clearly will be one that fills the many holes surrounding the Tupac and Biggie era.
Newark, NJ Hosts First Annual Hip-Hop Business Summit
This Saturday (August 23) the city of Newark will host the first annual Hip-Hop Business Summit, aimed at promoting entrepreneurship throughout the culture.
Dubbed “Hood Economics,” the summit promises to “encourage entrepreneurship by highlighting business opportunities that exist in the community, providing interactive discussions, sharing personal success stories, and key business tools and information.”
Confirmed guests to assist the summit are: CEO and Founder of AllHipHop.com Greg Watkins, Lance Smith, Walter Briggs, from the NFL, Brevin Knight, Kurt Thomas, Steffond Johnson, from the NBA, actors Michael Kenneth Smith (The Wire), Michael B. Jordan (All My Children, The Wire), and Hip-Hop pioneer Pepa.
The celebrities and local business leaders in attendance will share their success stories with the predominantly young crowd and explain in detail how to construct business plans to launch record labels, restaurants, barbershops, salons, or any other form of business.
Along with the panels there will be give-aways, and a book signing for Pepa’s new autobiography Let’s Talk About Pep.
The Summit will be capped with a VIP White Party at The Spot Lounge on 45 Commerce St. in Newark, NJ.
Tickets for the summit are $55. For more information and to purchase tickets visit http://www.ecsmg.com.
BREAKING NEWS: Da Brat Gets Three Years In Prison
Chart topping rapper Da Brat was sentenced to three years in prison today (August 22), after being charged with assault for hitting a woman in the face with a bottle of rum.
The prison sentence stems from a November 2007 incident, in which Da Brat, born Shawntae Harris, argued with Shala Stevens, a waitress working at Jermaine Dupri’s Club 72.
Stevens, a budding model, Atlanta Falcons cheerleader and actress, suffered deep lacerations to her cheek and swelling to her forehead.
Stevens, who is represented by power attorney Willie Gary and CK Hoffler in a civil lawsuit, also suffered permanent disfigurement and mental distress as a result of the attack.
"Ms. Stevens is a cheerleader, choreographer, dancer, actress and entrepreneur, whose career has been greatly affected by this incident," Gary told AllHipHop.com in a previous statement.
Stevens was also forced to pull out of an upcoming role on Tyler Perry’s sitcom House of Pain due to the injuries she sustained in the assault.
Da Brat must also serve seven years of probation and complete 200 hours of community service.
In 2000, Da Brat was charged with pistol whipping another patron at the Chili Pepper nightclub in Atlanta.
She pleaded guilty, was fined and sentenced to a year of probation.
Da Brat has worked with artists like Mariah Carey, Missy Elliott, Lil Kim, Ludacris, Dem Franchize Boyz, Kelly Rowland and others.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Cam'ron Sells Juelz Santana To Def Jam For $2 Million
By Andreas Hale
The never ending saga of the Diplomats internal struggles continue. Depending on who you ask, either everything is all good [click to read] or the crew is in shambles [click to read]. Although the future of the Dip Set is only known by those within the unit, the recent news of Cam'ron selling Juelz Santana's contract to Def Jam certainly have cast a cloud over the collective.
According to Miss Info's blog, the deal is in fact a reality and the video message sent out by the Best of Both Offices about Juelz returning means much more than originally perceived [click to check out video].
Miss Info asked Juelz via email about his move to Def Jam and Juelz responded with his own email that Info posted on her site.
"A! What’s good !! Yeah, I’m free!! And ready to do me!! But its still Dip Set 4 life!! Its just going to be a new chapter!!" he stated. Although he said that it was "still Dip Set 4 life," he followed by addressing his relationship with Killa Cam.
"I have no hard feeling for Cam, after all, he did give me a chance!!! But I will say this I was loyal to him and he took advantage."
What Santana exactly means by "took advantage" is unclear but it does show that the Dip Set still has internal issues with Cam. In the meanwhile, Juelz discussed his immediate future.
"Mixtape coming up soon, my solo mixtape ('the Reagan Era')," he revealed
"I have a joint venture with Def Jam, a 50/50 deal," he continued. "Yeah, it’s a new boss in town. Album is called Born to Lose, Built to Win!!!! (The rise of the skullgang)."
More on this as it develops.
2Pac Wanted to Work With the Wu?!
By Anthony Springer Jr
While late rapper 2Pac is widely known for the infamous—and some say fictitious—east coast/west coast rap fued, he had a lot of love for many east coast emcees.
A recent blog posting on the Hip Hop is Read site shows a document in Pac’s original handwriting for an album tentatively titled Euthanasia.
The list of tracks has features including Method Man, Raekwon and RZA. While 2Pac was able to collaborate with Meth on All Eyez On Me in addition to other Wu affiliates, the list may shock some.
Another posting on the site shows another album, Supreme Euthanasia with features and production from R. Kelly, Shock G, Scarface [click to read] and Kool G. Rap [click to read].
Class Of '88: KRS-One
With our ongoing Class Of ‘88 features, we have been paying tribute to the immensely classic work that came out that year. So far we’ve gone in with Big Daddy Kane, Eric B., Chuck D., EPMD, MC Lyte, Marley Marl just to name a few. It’s only right though. 1988 is probably the greatest year for Rap music bar none. And truth be told AllHipHop.com, was the only publication to take things back in order to frame this twentieth anniversary properly.
"W
So '88 to me starts right there in terms of the social structure. That was the height of the crack era. This was also the end of the Five Percent era too. This is also the end of the era of the Black man in the street walking around with a book. There used to be a time where men, really Blacks and Puerto Ricans, would walk around New York with books in their hand. Either The Koran, The Bible, something from Dr. [Malachi] York or Behold A Pale Horse. It was like your jewelry, that’s what you were judged by.
West Coast shook, South shook, North shook, overseas shook, and Bahamas shook. We used to walk into Atlanta f***ing deep. And look, I’m not saying it in a way where I’m dissing; I’m saying this as a scholar. I’m saying take a look at MC’s claiming New York, claiming East Coast, claiming they the kings of sh*t in New York. Then compare our kingdom in '88.
Sony Launches Battery, New Urban Label
By Tai Saint Louis
Sony has launched a new urban imprint dedicated to reviving the practice of artist development, AllHipHop.com has learned.
Battery Records will be lead by Penalty Records Founder Neil Levine and distributed through Sony’s RED Marketing Group.
While operating as it’s own independent company, Battery Records will primarily be responsible for the early-stage development of certain artists on the rosters of the RCA and Zomba groups of labels.
“We started operation back in mid-June, so it’s a brand new division,” Neil Levine told AllHipHop.com. “It’s really an incubator imprint label. Our main focus is really taking developing artists that are signed to our frontline labels. Through my division, we have our own promotions staff, publicity, online, product management. So it’s really an independent division that’s part of Sony.”
New York-based Battery is already developing new projects by three up-and-coming Southern artists: Atlanta’s Sir Will, Sunny Valentine from Tyler Texas, who attained regional success last year with his single “F U Pay Me;” and Nashville’s Lil’ Goonie, who are all signed Sony’s Jive imprint.
“Most of the new artists will be signed to one of our proprietary front line labels and given to us to develop,” Levine explained. “We will also be doing a certain amount of our own deals. And more of our deals will be with established artists that have a strong brand out there, that have been through multi-nationals, that wanna really own and control their destiny. For those artists, we’ll be doing non-traditional deal models, more on the distribution side of the business [while] offering some label services to those artists.”
By partnering Battery Records with RED, which has already established itself with Rock and Pop acts, Sony hopes to create non-traditional situations that will help revitalize the music business as a whole.
Artists also have the opportunity to be promoted through various Sony-owned brands, which spans touring, movies, gaming, publishing, merchandising agreements and DVD releases.
The new imprint plans to defy what has become the norm with major labels in the current market climate by keeping its roster small, so that every artist remains a priority.
In addition to the resources available to Battery as part of Sony, the new label will also benefit from the years of urban music experience Levine brings to the table.
Even before launching Penalty, which was home to such artists as Capone-N-Noreaga, Lord Finesse and The Beatnuts, Levine’s first foray into the world of Hip-Hop was with Round The Globe Music, one of the earliest marketing and promotions companies that promoted the art form in its early days.
“I been doing this a long time, and I remember back in the day, you wouldn’t think about dropping an album without having had a number of singles out, unless there was a demand for that product,” added Levine. “So for us, it’s really kind of taking it back to the basics. Trying to focus on good music, artists that have a staying power, artists that are stars.”
Since Penalty was absorbed into Tommy Boy Records in 1999, Levine has held positions with TVT Records and Ryko, before landing at Imperial Records, where he oversaw the releases of Fat Joe’s last two albums.
Sony has launched a new urban imprint dedicated to reviving the practice of artist development, AllHipHop.com has learned.
Battery Records will be lead by Penalty Records Founder Neil Levine and distributed through Sony’s RED Marketing Group.
While operating as it’s own independent company, Battery Records will primarily be responsible for the early-stage development of certain artists on the rosters of the RCA and Zomba groups of labels.
“We started operation back in mid-June, so it’s a brand new division,” Neil Levine told AllHipHop.com. “It’s really an incubator imprint label. Our main focus is really taking developing artists that are signed to our frontline labels. Through my division, we have our own promotions staff, publicity, online, product management. So it’s really an independent division that’s part of Sony.”
New York-based Battery is already developing new projects by three up-and-coming Southern artists: Atlanta’s Sir Will, Sunny Valentine from Tyler Texas, who attained regional success last year with his single “F U Pay Me;” and Nashville’s Lil’ Goonie, who are all signed Sony’s Jive imprint.
“Most of the new artists will be signed to one of our proprietary front line labels and given to us to develop,” Levine explained. “We will also be doing a certain amount of our own deals. And more of our deals will be with established artists that have a strong brand out there, that have been through multi-nationals, that wanna really own and control their destiny. For those artists, we’ll be doing non-traditional deal models, more on the distribution side of the business [while] offering some label services to those artists.”
By partnering Battery Records with RED, which has already established itself with Rock and Pop acts, Sony hopes to create non-traditional situations that will help revitalize the music business as a whole.
Artists also have the opportunity to be promoted through various Sony-owned brands, which spans touring, movies, gaming, publishing, merchandising agreements and DVD releases.
The new imprint plans to defy what has become the norm with major labels in the current market climate by keeping its roster small, so that every artist remains a priority.
In addition to the resources available to Battery as part of Sony, the new label will also benefit from the years of urban music experience Levine brings to the table.
Even before launching Penalty, which was home to such artists as Capone-N-Noreaga, Lord Finesse and The Beatnuts, Levine’s first foray into the world of Hip-Hop was with Round The Globe Music, one of the earliest marketing and promotions companies that promoted the art form in its early days.
“I been doing this a long time, and I remember back in the day, you wouldn’t think about dropping an album without having had a number of singles out, unless there was a demand for that product,” added Levine. “So for us, it’s really kind of taking it back to the basics. Trying to focus on good music, artists that have a staying power, artists that are stars.”
Since Penalty was absorbed into Tommy Boy Records in 1999, Levine has held positions with TVT Records and Ryko, before landing at Imperial Records, where he oversaw the releases of Fat Joe’s last two albums.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Lady Of Rage, Babs, Lady Luck Unite For Movement
Author: Jake Paine
Three respected female emcees, The Lady of Rage [click to read], Babs and Lady Luck announced today that they're working together on FEM (Females Earning Money) Movement. The trio, which will also include support from the likes of Amil and Rah Digga, is designed to become a pillar of successful females in the Hip Hop industry. The project is executive produced by Ed Lover and Uneek, of Bounce Squad fame.
"This is the perfect time to do a project like this," said Lover. "A lot of people have been wondering what happened to the female emcees, well these ladies are about to prove that they are here and they are better than ever! The FEM Movement is great for the future of Hip Hop!" Babs, who's fame largely came from the first season of Making The Band, added, "I'm excited about the project. Each one of us brings something great and different to the table and I'm ready to go in! We are all very talented and we have all worked with major artists in the industry… Rage with Dr. Dre and Snoop, Amil with Jay-Z, Luck with Def Jam and EPMD and myself with Diddy. None of us are amateurs, but at the same time we all still have something to prove."
The FEM Movement will begin later this year with a mixtape, hosted by Doo Wop.
hiphopdx.com
Three respected female emcees, The Lady of Rage [click to read], Babs and Lady Luck announced today that they're working together on FEM (Females Earning Money) Movement. The trio, which will also include support from the likes of Amil and Rah Digga, is designed to become a pillar of successful females in the Hip Hop industry. The project is executive produced by Ed Lover and Uneek, of Bounce Squad fame.
"This is the perfect time to do a project like this," said Lover. "A lot of people have been wondering what happened to the female emcees, well these ladies are about to prove that they are here and they are better than ever! The FEM Movement is great for the future of Hip Hop!" Babs, who's fame largely came from the first season of Making The Band, added, "I'm excited about the project. Each one of us brings something great and different to the table and I'm ready to go in! We are all very talented and we have all worked with major artists in the industry… Rage with Dr. Dre and Snoop, Amil with Jay-Z, Luck with Def Jam and EPMD and myself with Diddy. None of us are amateurs, but at the same time we all still have something to prove."
The FEM Movement will begin later this year with a mixtape, hosted by Doo Wop.
hiphopdx.com
South Central Cartel's Havikk Returns, Talks New Album
Jake Paine
In a year that's seeing west coast rap veterans to the likes of Big Hutch, Arabian Prince and Ice Cube return with new albums, South Central Cartel's Havikk adds another to the list.
As one of Def Jam's first west coast signings, the Los Angeles duo of Havikk and Prodeje shared the names of Mobb Deep members, but began as early as 1991, releasing material to the masses. Singles included "Gang Stories" and "Pops Was A Rolla," and the group joined The group would also be a starting point for L.V., who would go onto win a Grammy with Coolio for the hit "Gangsta's Paradise" in the middle of the decade.
Havikk recently released The Rhime Son, a solo project in conjunction with Pete Spray, featuring appearances by 2Pac, 40 Glocc, Mac Mall, Spice 1 and others. The album, which also features a dedication to Tupac Shakur within its 22 tracks, features Prodeje.
The rapper told HipHopDX Tuesday evening, "I did this project for my fans and I felt I wanted to give them what they have been asking for and I felt it was time for me to do me. Big Havikk on the grind again!"
hiphopdx.com
Alchemist Visits Prodigy In Jail, Blogs About It
Author: Danielle Harling
After a recent visit to Midstate Correctional Facility in upstate New York to visit collaborator and friend Prodigy of Mobb Deep, Hip Hop producer The Alchemist recapped his visit for readers on his blog www.alchemistbeats.blogspot.com.
Accompanied by Prodigy's wife, KiKi Johnson and aided by a couple of strong doses of Starbucks, Alchemist set off at 6 a.m. on his four hour journey to Midstate.
In his blog, Alchemist goes into great detail, describing everything from the four hour ride through upstate New York to the misleading "George Washington old school" style exterior of the correctional facility.
The blog starts off on a grim although realistic note, "Jail is foul. Everything about it is designed to break your spirit. I mean from the stink smells, to that ' frying electric chair' sound that the doors make when they open and close, to those funky looks on the CO's faces…even little shit like the colors they use to paint the walls. Foulness."
While on his visit, Alchemist and Prodigy discussed a number of things including Alchemist's production on the Lil Wayne Tha Carter III [click to read] album, Prodigy's autobiography, and Prodigy's latest album H.N.I.C. Part 2 [click to read].
According to Alchemist, Prodigy still has another year to go and has already been locked up for six months now.
In 2007, the duo released Return of the Mac
hiphopdx.com
After a recent visit to Midstate Correctional Facility in upstate New York to visit collaborator and friend Prodigy of Mobb Deep, Hip Hop producer The Alchemist recapped his visit for readers on his blog www.alchemistbeats.blogspot.com.
Accompanied by Prodigy's wife, KiKi Johnson and aided by a couple of strong doses of Starbucks, Alchemist set off at 6 a.m. on his four hour journey to Midstate.
In his blog, Alchemist goes into great detail, describing everything from the four hour ride through upstate New York to the misleading "George Washington old school" style exterior of the correctional facility.
The blog starts off on a grim although realistic note, "Jail is foul. Everything about it is designed to break your spirit. I mean from the stink smells, to that ' frying electric chair' sound that the doors make when they open and close, to those funky looks on the CO's faces…even little shit like the colors they use to paint the walls. Foulness."
While on his visit, Alchemist and Prodigy discussed a number of things including Alchemist's production on the Lil Wayne Tha Carter III [click to read] album, Prodigy's autobiography, and Prodigy's latest album H.N.I.C. Part 2 [click to read].
According to Alchemist, Prodigy still has another year to go and has already been locked up for six months now.
In 2007, the duo released Return of the Mac
hiphopdx.com
Game Begs For Beef With Jay-Z
Author: Aliya Ewing
For the past few years beef between Hip Hop heavyweight Jay-Z and Game has been hovering but not to the point of ever boiling into a full blown feud. Even after Jay-Z denounced the rumors, Game came right back with even more verbal taunts including publicly saying "Memph Bleek can suck my dick /Beanie Sigel can suck my dick/Jay-Z can suck my dick/Roc-A-Fella can suck my dick." Now Game is back at it again years later.
The next chapter in this soap opera begins as Game talks to 104.7s Chino today [click to listen]. When asked about how Jay-Z supposedly said he wasn't going to respond to Game's taunts and would rather "Just let him commit suicide," Game responded.
"I'm too disrespectful for Jay-Z, I go to hard. His beef is mediocre beef, it's more swag and less hardcore. Me, I go in on your grandma, your kids and your girl….it will get ugly and I don't mind. I have a whole coast to back me. My coast will turn their backs on whoever I turn my back on. So basically, let me commit suicide because I'm the only cat to commit suicide and resurrect every time. So for Jay to say that about me, that's cool man because he's Jay-Z and I'm just lil ol' Game. But if you fuck with me I'll turn to a beast, and ill rip ya head off..bust ya lips," Game said.
"I can be a fan of Jay and still rip him limb from limb lyrically and still be a fan. After I finish him off, I'm still going to listen to Reasonable Doubt afterwards. I'll kiss Jay goodbye with his own lips. I'm going to make him mad enough to where he has to say something. Jay imma make you so mad you gonna have to diss me...[laughs] I need him to do it, I got an album coming out; help me."
With the resolution to make Jay respond to him, could th biggest beef of the year be on the horizon? DX will keep you updated as the story unfolds
hiphopdx.com
For the past few years beef between Hip Hop heavyweight Jay-Z and Game has been hovering but not to the point of ever boiling into a full blown feud. Even after Jay-Z denounced the rumors, Game came right back with even more verbal taunts including publicly saying "Memph Bleek can suck my dick /Beanie Sigel can suck my dick/Jay-Z can suck my dick/Roc-A-Fella can suck my dick." Now Game is back at it again years later.
The next chapter in this soap opera begins as Game talks to 104.7s Chino today [click to listen]. When asked about how Jay-Z supposedly said he wasn't going to respond to Game's taunts and would rather "Just let him commit suicide," Game responded.
"I'm too disrespectful for Jay-Z, I go to hard. His beef is mediocre beef, it's more swag and less hardcore. Me, I go in on your grandma, your kids and your girl….it will get ugly and I don't mind. I have a whole coast to back me. My coast will turn their backs on whoever I turn my back on. So basically, let me commit suicide because I'm the only cat to commit suicide and resurrect every time. So for Jay to say that about me, that's cool man because he's Jay-Z and I'm just lil ol' Game. But if you fuck with me I'll turn to a beast, and ill rip ya head off..bust ya lips," Game said.
"I can be a fan of Jay and still rip him limb from limb lyrically and still be a fan. After I finish him off, I'm still going to listen to Reasonable Doubt afterwards. I'll kiss Jay goodbye with his own lips. I'm going to make him mad enough to where he has to say something. Jay imma make you so mad you gonna have to diss me...[laughs] I need him to do it, I got an album coming out; help me."
With the resolution to make Jay respond to him, could th biggest beef of the year be on the horizon? DX will keep you updated as the story unfolds
hiphopdx.com
KRS-One, EPMD To Headline 11th Annual Black August Benefit
New York legends KRS-One and EPMD have been tapped to headline the 11th annual Black August Benefit Concert in New York. The veteran rappers will lead a lineup also featuring soul singer Bilal, Immortal Technique, and Juice Crew leader Marley Marl.
The show is scheduled to take place August 31st at the Nokia Theater in Manhattan.
Black Moon, Smiff-N-Wessun, and K-Salaam are slated to be on stage as well.
Black August is produced by Brooklyn’s Malcolm X Grassroots Movement to bring awareness to social injustices and raise funds for political prisoners.
“The Black August Hip-Hop Project has been a great way to communicate the importance of supporting political prisoners in the U.S. and the issues our people face locally and all around the globe,” the event’s Co-Chair Tamir Z. Brown said in a statement. “It has cleaned up some of the negativity associated with hip-hop and shows that we are self-determined and self-sufficient.”
In the past, David Banner, Saigon, Talib Kweli, Mos Def and dead prez have all performed at Black August.—LaTisha Robbins
xxlmag.com
The show is scheduled to take place August 31st at the Nokia Theater in Manhattan.
Black Moon, Smiff-N-Wessun, and K-Salaam are slated to be on stage as well.
Black August is produced by Brooklyn’s Malcolm X Grassroots Movement to bring awareness to social injustices and raise funds for political prisoners.
“The Black August Hip-Hop Project has been a great way to communicate the importance of supporting political prisoners in the U.S. and the issues our people face locally and all around the globe,” the event’s Co-Chair Tamir Z. Brown said in a statement. “It has cleaned up some of the negativity associated with hip-hop and shows that we are self-determined and self-sufficient.”
In the past, David Banner, Saigon, Talib Kweli, Mos Def and dead prez have all performed at Black August.—LaTisha Robbins
xxlmag.com
Young Jeezy: "The Recession" Tracklisting
Album On Sale September 2nd
1. The Recession (Intro)
2. Welcome Back
3. By The Way
4. Crazy World
5. What They Want
6. Amazin’
7. Hustlaz Ambition
8. Who Dat
9. Don’t You Know
10. Circulate
11. Word Play
12. Vacation
13. Everything featuring Anthony Hamilton and Lil Boosie
14. Takin’ It There featuring Trey Songz
15. Don’t Do It
16. Put On featuring Kanye West
17. Get Allot
18. My President featuring Nas
Jay-Z Confirms Blueprint 3 - No I.D. & Kanye Production
By: Mark DiSalvo
Blueprint 3 is no longer a rumor. At the end of Kanye West's second show in NYC on Wednesday, Jay-Z hit the stage to perform a new song, "Jockin' Jay-Z," which was produced by Kanye West. Jay-Z also shouted out to the Blueprint 3. The next morning on Shade 45 on Sirius radio, HOV called in to confirm the Blueprint 3's existence himself.
Memphis Bleek told Billboard today that Kanye's done a few beats for Jay and Bleek jokingly admitted he was, "hating on him for having them."
Jay-Z has given no date for BP3's release. Video of "Jockin Jay-Z" from Glow in the Dark is below.
Billboard also confirmed today that No I.D. is going to be producing at least a track for the album. Def Jam has not yet announced a release date for "Blueprint 3," Jay-Z's last studio album for the company before he begins recording for Live Nation.
undergroundhiphop.com
Blueprint 3 is no longer a rumor. At the end of Kanye West's second show in NYC on Wednesday, Jay-Z hit the stage to perform a new song, "Jockin' Jay-Z," which was produced by Kanye West. Jay-Z also shouted out to the Blueprint 3. The next morning on Shade 45 on Sirius radio, HOV called in to confirm the Blueprint 3's existence himself.
Memphis Bleek told Billboard today that Kanye's done a few beats for Jay and Bleek jokingly admitted he was, "hating on him for having them."
Jay-Z has given no date for BP3's release. Video of "Jockin Jay-Z" from Glow in the Dark is below.
Billboard also confirmed today that No I.D. is going to be producing at least a track for the album. Def Jam has not yet announced a release date for "Blueprint 3," Jay-Z's last studio album for the company before he begins recording for Live Nation.
undergroundhiphop.com
Heltah Skeltah Put Finishing Touches On D.I.R.T.
By: Mark DiSalvo
Your favorite Brooklyn collective is coming back September 30 with a full length LP. D.I.R.T. (Da Incredible Rap Team), features 14 new tracks from Heltah Skeltah with production from Illmind, Khrysis, Easy Mo Bee, Stu Bangas, Evidence, and Marco Polo.
Some video has been leaked in promotion of the project - including some early footage of Heltah Skeltah from an early nineties recording session and a back and forth freestyle between Rock and Ruste Juxx.
Tracklist and cover are below.
01. Intro
02. Insane (Produced by Marco Polo)
03. Chipmunk 3000 (Produced by Fatim)
04. Everything Is Heltah Skeltah (Produced by ILL MIND)
05. D.I.R.T. (Another Boot Camp Clik Yeah Song) (Produced by Khrysis)
06. So Damn Tough (Feat. Buckshot & Ruste Juxx) (Produced by ILL MIND)
07. WMD (Feat. Smif N Wessun) (Produced by M-Phazes)
08. That's Incredible (Produced by EZ Mo Bee)
09. Ape Muzik (Feat. The Representativz) (Produced by Stu Bangas)
10. The Art of Disrespekanization (Produced by Khrysis)
11. Hellz Kitchen (Produced by Evidence)
12. Shmack Muzik (Produced by Sic Beats)
13. Twinz (Produced by Ken Ring)
14. Ruck N Roll (Produced by Stu Bangas)
undergroundhiphop.com
Your favorite Brooklyn collective is coming back September 30 with a full length LP. D.I.R.T. (Da Incredible Rap Team), features 14 new tracks from Heltah Skeltah with production from Illmind, Khrysis, Easy Mo Bee, Stu Bangas, Evidence, and Marco Polo.
Some video has been leaked in promotion of the project - including some early footage of Heltah Skeltah from an early nineties recording session and a back and forth freestyle between Rock and Ruste Juxx.
Tracklist and cover are below.
01. Intro
02. Insane (Produced by Marco Polo)
03. Chipmunk 3000 (Produced by Fatim)
04. Everything Is Heltah Skeltah (Produced by ILL MIND)
05. D.I.R.T. (Another Boot Camp Clik Yeah Song) (Produced by Khrysis)
06. So Damn Tough (Feat. Buckshot & Ruste Juxx) (Produced by ILL MIND)
07. WMD (Feat. Smif N Wessun) (Produced by M-Phazes)
08. That's Incredible (Produced by EZ Mo Bee)
09. Ape Muzik (Feat. The Representativz) (Produced by Stu Bangas)
10. The Art of Disrespekanization (Produced by Khrysis)
11. Hellz Kitchen (Produced by Evidence)
12. Shmack Muzik (Produced by Sic Beats)
13. Twinz (Produced by Ken Ring)
14. Ruck N Roll (Produced by Stu Bangas)
undergroundhiphop.com
DJ Premier Co-Signs ILL BILL
Pretty interesting video of DJ Premier talking about working with Non Phixion's ILL BILL. Premier hooked ILL BILL up with a beat he originally shopped to Jay-Z for the American Gangster album. Necro even gets a co-sign from Premier @ the end. I guess Premo knows something that Sage Francis obviously doesn't. Lol.
M.F. DOOM Does It Again - Real Recognize Fake
By: Trees
Where in the world is the REAL Metal Fingerz DOOM ? Another Doomposter turned up in San Bernardino over the weekend for M.F. DOOM's scheduled appearance during the Rock The Bells show.
DOOM's faithful fans can be heard reacting in a manner that is expected when realizations are made that they are getting cheated by an artist that they love - namely booing and throwing objects at the FAKE M.F. DOOM impersonator on the stage. Reports from the venue are stating that the fake DOOM was clearly seen lip-synching and the man behind the mask did not resemble Daniel Dumile whatsoever. The reception was so bad that the imposter had to leave the stage early and didn't finish the set.
There's been some video leaked from the performance - and you can clearly hear the boos and see the objects being thrown. One fan even screams "What the fuck - What's going on man? I didn't come for this shit..".. and the crowd starts chanting "Bullshit" in video 2.
It's amazing that a Tribe Called Quest could reunite w/ Busta Rhymes, Jay-Z can duet with Nas, Black Star can reunite, and the Pharcyde can put on a show in multiple cities, but M.F. DOOM can't seem to get his ass out of his house in Atlanta to give his fans a proper show. What a shame.
It's time for some answers DOOM!!
Where in the world is the REAL Metal Fingerz DOOM ? Another Doomposter turned up in San Bernardino over the weekend for M.F. DOOM's scheduled appearance during the Rock The Bells show.
DOOM's faithful fans can be heard reacting in a manner that is expected when realizations are made that they are getting cheated by an artist that they love - namely booing and throwing objects at the FAKE M.F. DOOM impersonator on the stage. Reports from the venue are stating that the fake DOOM was clearly seen lip-synching and the man behind the mask did not resemble Daniel Dumile whatsoever. The reception was so bad that the imposter had to leave the stage early and didn't finish the set.
There's been some video leaked from the performance - and you can clearly hear the boos and see the objects being thrown. One fan even screams "What the fuck - What's going on man? I didn't come for this shit..".. and the crowd starts chanting "Bullshit" in video 2.
It's amazing that a Tribe Called Quest could reunite w/ Busta Rhymes, Jay-Z can duet with Nas, Black Star can reunite, and the Pharcyde can put on a show in multiple cities, but M.F. DOOM can't seem to get his ass out of his house in Atlanta to give his fans a proper show. What a shame.
It's time for some answers DOOM!!
The Mad Scientist Is Back
Konsept
The Mad Scientist a.k.a. Large Professor is dropping a new album entitled Main Source. It will be out September 16 on Gold Dust. Here’s a video of Large Pro droppin’ some science on the album concept and the ideas behind the music. Enjoy.
undergroundhiphop.com
The Mad Scientist a.k.a. Large Professor is dropping a new album entitled Main Source. It will be out September 16 on Gold Dust. Here’s a video of Large Pro droppin’ some science on the album concept and the ideas behind the music. Enjoy.
undergroundhiphop.com
East Flatbush Project's New Single
Konsept
The group East Flatbush Project from Brooklyn has got a new single called A Day in the Life. They're also re-released the single of Tried by 12. I’ve listened to the new single and I can personally say; it's some good music. For more information on the the new project and new single, check out: 2DopeBoyz blog feature.
undergroundhiphop.com
The group East Flatbush Project from Brooklyn has got a new single called A Day in the Life. They're also re-released the single of Tried by 12. I’ve listened to the new single and I can personally say; it's some good music. For more information on the the new project and new single, check out: 2DopeBoyz blog feature.
undergroundhiphop.com
Friday, August 8, 2008
New Rae News on Only Built 4 Cuban Linx II
Konsept
Now any news about the sequel to a classic album is good news. Instead of me just blabbing about his new album, Hardknock TV got Rae to just sum it all up in an interview on the set of Game’s video (Pain f/ Keyshia Cole). He speaks on his album, his thoughts on Hip-Hop, and just dropping jewels as they say. Enjoy.
undergroundhiphop.com
Now any news about the sequel to a classic album is good news. Instead of me just blabbing about his new album, Hardknock TV got Rae to just sum it all up in an interview on the set of Game’s video (Pain f/ Keyshia Cole). He speaks on his album, his thoughts on Hip-Hop, and just dropping jewels as they say. Enjoy.
undergroundhiphop.com
Joe Budden Speaks On Sophomore Album
Danielle Harling
In 2003, Jersey City rapper Joe Budden [click to read] was reaping the benefits of his successful debut album, Joe Budden [click to read]. The album reached gold status and Budden even received a Grammy nomination.
But fast forward several years and fans of Budden have yet to see a sophomore album from the rapper. Instead, Budden's sophomore effort remained on the shelves at Def Jam for several years.
Budden finally severed ties with Def Jam in 2007 and is currently signed to independent label Amalgam Digital. As a result of the split with Def Jam, Budden will finally have the opportunity to release his sophomore album, Padded Room.
"This album I attempted to step outside of myself, or at least go back to a time in life where everything was different, mentally and emotionally," Joe Budden told HipHopDX. "I wanted to create a space where there were no boundaries, no limits, no walls aside from the ones I chose to create."
Budden delves into matters of sanity and insanity with Padded Room and instead of tracks like "Pump It Up" fans can expect not so club friendly tracks such as "Blood On The Wall". [click to listen].
"With this album, I wanted the listener to get a better idea of what its like to have no idea. The booth became my safe haven. I wanted to be able to showcase insanity, but at the same time have people cater to it, and the only place where that's possible…Is in the Padded Room," Joe Budden explained.
"Touch And Go" the first single off of Padded Room will debut in September and the Padded Room will be released on October 28 on Amalgam Digital.
Saigon Talks Label Options, Just Blaze
Edwin Ortiz
The man who is still fiending to give the Hip Hop world The Greatest Story Never Told has been hard at work performing overseas, though his presence in the states has been somewhat silent. Checking in with DJ Envy, Saigon [click to read] relayed his current status on signing a record deal to finally release The Greatest Story Never Told, as well as his future with Just Blaze.
The biggest question mark still lingering over the progress of Saigon’s rap career resides in his quest to find the right record label, to which Saigon persists there are a handful of options available, including a reunion with former partner/producer Mark Ronson. “He let me know that’s an option if I want. If I wanna go over there to put my music out, with his situation at Interscope, it’s an option.”
Where others might have folded under the restless setbacks that the rap music industry entails, Saigon has kept his demeanor cool thanks in part to his main collaborator Just Blaze. Because of their musical connection, a relationship has spawned in which Saigon considers “awesome.” “Just is riding with me till the end. That’s like my brother. Over the past four years of working we established like a friendship, more so than just business.” When asked if Just Blaze would be around for his second album, Saigon echoed his words true as he stated, “I won’t make an album without Just Blaze.”
hiphopdx.com
Battle For "Hip Hop's Birthplace" Ends With Sale
Omar Burgess
In an effort to curb local gentrification, and save what is widely regarded as "the birthplace of Hip Hop," residents of the 100-unit building located at 1520 Sedgwick Avenue made plans to buy their building. Those efforts ended when the building's current owners made moves to pay the unit's remaining mortgage and have it removed from a special affordable housing program.
The building's current owners were blocked from selling the property month's ago, when New York's Department of Housing Preservation and Development rejected the proposed $9 million sale. That sale was $1.5 million higher than the building's assessed value, and would have likely removed the building from the Mitchell-Lama affordable housing program. In order to avoid having another sale blocked by the state, the current owners elected to pay the remaining balance off. Such a move will end any regulatory power the state has over the sale or use of the property.
"They have requested a payoff letter for early September,” housing department spokesman Seth Dolin tells the New York Times. “It means they want to pay off their mortgage and exit."
DJ Kool Herc and a number of celebrities and elected officials were able to postpone the sale by lobbying to make the building a historic landmark last year [click to read]. Mark Karasick, the real estate developer who is looking to purchase the property from its current owners, has not disclosed what he plans to do with the property after purchasing it. Local residents fear the Sedgwick building could be subject to a significant rent increases, or demolition.
hiphopdx.com
DJ Quik To Mix The Entire Murs For President Album
Andres Tardio
With Snoop Dogg and Three 6 Mafia [click to read] on the bill for Murs' first major label release, Murs For President, the Mid City Los Angeles underground hero is already actualizing some dream collaborations. However, as Will.i.am [click to read], Rick Rock and others lend production assistance (whether or not they make the final cut), Murs enlisted another legend in for the September album's mixing.
"The biggest thing to me is that DJ Quik mixed the whole record. I got to sit with him every day. He’s a fucking genius!" admitted Murs. The emcee added that the work come in the form of a classical approach, "And we mixed it to a two and a half inch tape. It’s analog. It’s warm. Every rap album now is mixed straight, they call it in the box, ProTools. I took my shit and put it on the shit they put Beatles records on because it’s my only chance to do it. It might not happen again. So, um…DJ Quik mixed the tape. It’s all nerdy shit. To me, I tell people like this. I’m a director and I got to make…like Kevin Smith or somebody gets to make Clerks and then makes to big budget film. This is my time but I got one explosion, maybe."
DJ Quik is presently working with Snoop Dogg, Kurupt and Yung Joc.
Additional Reporting by Jake Paine.
hiphopdx.com
Damizza Pens Tell-All Book On Dr. Dre, West Coast Rap
Jake Paine
Months after Bruce Williams [click to read] penned his tell-all book Rollin' With Dre about experiences as Dr. Dre's best friend and former Aftermath Records employee, another west coast industry insider follows suit.
Damizza, best remembered for the hit 2000 hit with Shade Shiest, "Where I Wanna Be." Having also produced for TQ, Kurupt and Mariah Carey, Damizza was ranked by The Source Magazine as one of the five most powerful people in Hip Hop in 1999, with his ties to radio as the senior director of programming and artist relations at Power 106 in Los Angeles.
The book, titled Guilty By Association will explore 15 years of industry experience, with reported narrative about the behind-the-scenes goings on involving Dr. Dre, Jay-Z and The Game, among a host of others. The memoir will be co-written by Eric Burdon biographer J. Marshall Craig.
Guilty By Association is planned for December release.
Rhymefest Speaks on "Stolen" Video
Shake
While Rhymefest readies his upcoming album, El Che, for a 2008 release; the Chi-town emcee will be dropping a video for a song entitled Stolen next Tuesday (August 12).
While the title of the track might suggest the song being about Fest’s recent situation where his iPod was stolen and the thief has threatened to leak a track a week until the album is put out [click to read]. Rhymefest assures it’s much more than that and warns fans to watch with a different mind:
“I just wanted to let everyone know that this is a song and a video that needs to be viewed with a bit of perspective. First of all: dumb ass niggas that can’t think past the club, the block or a fat booty bitches, DO NOT WATCH THIS! Your brain will explode. Seconds, self-righteous hip hop nerds who expect to hear me go line for line in a metaphorical circus, DO NOT WATCH THIS! You will be solely disappointed,” Rhymefest says.
Fest continues to speak on the social awareness exposed in the video:
“For those who appreciate music with both soul and social commentary, this video will offer an intriguing look into the lives of people who suffer from genocide, starvation and war. It was very important for me to make this song after my travels to London where I had an opportunity to speak to a former child soldier from Sierra Leone,” Fest continues.
“In an industry that is dominated by the replication of whatever the last club banger was, this song and video from unadulterated inspiration provided by the trials of life.”
hiphopdx.com
Dr. Dre Cognac To Hit Market In Time For Detox
Slava Kuperstein
In a somewhat ironic choice of products, Dr. Dre and Interscope Geffen A&M Records have made a joint venture with beverage company Drinks Americas to release "Aftermath Cognac" in the next 60 days...apparently in time for Detox.
According to Billboard.com, Drinks Americas announced in an earnings statement that it would be introducing the cognac via Abecassis Cognac, a cognac producer.
Also released within the next 60 days will be an 80-proof flavored and unflavored sparkling vodka.
What is sure to be the most exciting news for Hip Hop fans is Drinks Americas' claim that the cognac and vodka would be introduced at the same time as Dr. Dre's long-awaited album Detox, and be part of the an integrated marketing plan surrounding the project.
Recently, Dre stated that Detox would be released in November or December.
hiphopdx.com
Murs Discusses New Album & Sweet Lord
Andreas Hale
Murs has been a busy man over the past year. While preparing his major label debut on Warner, Murs has been busy with his Paid Dues festival, working with his Living Legends crew and giving a free album to all of his fans [click to listen].
In preparation for Murs For President, Murray linked up with 9th Wonder for their third project together titled Sweet Lord [click to read review]. But with such a hectic schedule, why a free album? HipHopDX caught up with Murs to discuss both projects.
“Sweet Lord was first and foremost a fan appreciation thing and secondly a statement to all of those who said I sold out. It is me saying ‘here’ I'm giving away an album that could’ve generated a minimum of a quarter of a million dollars for me and 9th but I don't make music for the money nor did I sign to Warner Bros for the money,” Murs explained to DX. “Hopefully the free download of Sweet Lord makes that abundantly clear.”
There have been some detractors of Murs signing with a major. Murs reveals why he made the move.
“I signed to Warner for the opportunity to compete with rappers on another level. To promote peace and love to a mainstream audience. To bring everything we represent in our indie Hip Hop world to the forefront and throw it in America’s face,” he continues.
So with that comes the long awaited major label debut from Murs titled Murs For President [click to hear the HipHopDX exclusive premier of "Can It Be"]. Some have wondered if it had political undertones. Murs has denied that it has anything to do with the upcoming election; but it does have to do with the current state of Hip Hop.
“That's what my album Murs For President is. It is a literal shout out to the world. It’s me screaming out that, yes, the Hip Hop generation is intelligent. Yes, we do care. And at the same time we can still have fun while being decent human beings,” he says. “I am the fresh breath of air in an industry that is bereft of good human beings. Not only are they bad rappers but they are just bad people. What decent human makes songs about murdering other humans or selling poison to other people? The time for that BS is over! I'm taking a stand for our kids, our community and our culture. So if you're looking for someone who represents positive, intelligent and fun rap music. Sept 30th vote Murs For President!”
Murs For President will be released via Warner on September 30th.
hiphopdx.com
A Tribe Called Quest Reunion Album Will Never Happen
Andreas Hale
For years, fans have pleaded with Q-Tip, Phife Dawg and Ali Shaheed Muhammad to find it within themselves to reunite for one more go around as A Tribe Called Quest. Although their sporadic stints performing as a trio on stage have given most fans a sense of satisfaction, a new album would be ideal.
Unfortunately, it will never happen.
After the group performed at Rock The Bells in New York this past weekend, Q-Tip told Eurweb that the group will never record a new album again.
"It will never, ever happen. We don't want to be one of those groups that comes back 15 years later and puts out an album that's not that good. It's why the Beatles never got back together," he said.
Although the statement is easily understandable, the notion that Tribe will never record again is disheartening to most fans who anticipated a new album in light of their recent reunions on stage over the past few years.
For now, continue checking for A Tribe Called Quest on the Rock The Bells tour.
hiphopdx.com
Jay-Z Joins Nas On Stage At Rock The Bells
Jake Paine
In an epic homecoming for New York emcees, Rock The Bells New York at Jones Beach Amphitheater proved to be unforgettable.
After early sets from the bills, the evening gave way to the New York tradition of special guests. Mos Def was joined by Talib Kweli for a series of Black Star songs including "Definition," "Respiration" and "Brown Skin Lady." The Rawkus Records alumni made their cipher complete with Pharoahe Monch joining former label-mates on stage for a boisterous performance of "Simon Says."
Next up, Method Man and Redman ran through a classic set of solo and collaborative material. Slick Rick joined his Def Jam proteges briefly for a partial performance of "La Di Da Di," largely assisted by the crowd. After Raekwon, who performed earlier with Ghostface returned to the stage, EPMD followed, performing "Strictly Business" and "So What Cha Saying." Washington DC's DJ Kool entered the set, performing "Let Me Clear My Throat," the 1996 club sensation based off of 45 King's classic "900 Number" breakbeat. Upon the set closing, Keith Murray completed the Def Squad triad with a performance, without Sermon at the time, of "Rapper's Delight."
Of special guests, the largest crowd reaction came from Nas speaking to the crowd about how he needs to "breathe." Repeating the word, DJ Green Lantern played the instrumental to "Success," prompting a Yankee-cap tucked low Jay-Z to rush on the stage nestled at the banks of the bay, and perform his first verse. After erupting applause, the two then performed "Black Republicans." [click to watch]
Nas' stage show included a five-piece band, joined by the deejay, which interpolated compositions such as "It Ain't Hard To Tell," "New York State of Mind," and "N.I.G.G.E.R."
A Tribe Called Quest headlined the night joined by luminaries such as Busta Rhymes on "Scenario" as well as Consequence.
Other guests aside from billed Rock The Bells performers included DJ Premier, M.O.P., Jeru Da Damaja, Biz Markie, Skyzoo, MIckey Factz and others.
Stay tuned for more Rock The Bells news, features and exclusive audio from the tour's official Hip Hop media partner, HipHopDX.
Rick Ross Speaks on Street Credibility
Anthony Springer Jr
In what can only be billed as an act of self defense or self incrimination, Rick Ross (the rapper) granted Don Diva magazine an exclusive interview, sounding off on the recent allegations leveled against him concerning his tenure as a correctional officer.
Ross—who was recently rebuked by “Freeway” Ricky Ross [click to read]—told the magazine everything he talks about in his music is real.
“When I’m making my music and I’m talking about blow, it’s because I did it,” the Miami rapper says. “When I say I’m rich off cocaine, it’s cause I did it… I took a lot of losses in this game. I took losses in the street, losses in this music.”
Ross also says he never had a hand in sending another man to jail. “I never ratted on a nigga, I never locked up a nigga.”
“I believe in the death penalty for rats.”
hiphopdx.com
Heltah Skeltah Returns With New Album
Andreas Hale
It’s been a decade since Rock and Ruck, aka Sean Price, have released an album as Heltah Skeltah. Since their debut album Nocturnal and 1998’s follow up Magnum Force, both rappers have remained family but have gone down different paths.
Sean Price reinvented himself as a solo artist and has released several projects to much acclaim in the underground. Some of his new fans have no idea that he’s Ruck ("At shows kids will approach me to my face and ask how Ruck is doing...I just respond with he's chillen," says Sean Price via statement). Rock, on the other hand, recently made headlines after battling a murder charge and being accused of pimping [click to read]. Fans have been salivating for a new album for ten years. Now they will finally get it.
2008 will see the return of Heltah Skeltah for their upcoming project entitled D.I.R.T. (Da Incredible Rap Team) under the familiar Duck Down Records umbrella. Ruck and Rock will be back at it again to give fans old and new a dosage of that Boot Camp Clik flavor.
With production from Khrysis, Marco Polo, Evidence, Illmind, Black Milk, Sic Beats, and more, as well as guest appearances from fellow Duck Down artists, Buckshot, Smif N Wessun, Ruste Juxx, and The Representativz, Ruck and Rock stuck to their proven formula and sound. Sean Price states: "We didn't try and get cute with this album and pick some 'out da box' beats and get on some philosophy sh*t. We did what we knew best and that was rhyme about the street, while of course infusing the humor that you know you're going to get when you listen to our rhymes."
Tracklisting and credits for Heltah Skeltah’s D.I.R.T (Tentative):
1.) Intro
2.) Insane (Produced by Marco Polo)
3.) Chipmunk 3000 (Produced by Fatim)
4.) Everything Is Heltah Skeltah (Produced by Illmind)
5.) D.I.R.T. (Another Boot Camp Clik Yeah Song) (Produced by Khrysis)
6.) So Damn Tough f/Buckshot and Ruste Juxx (Produced by Illmind)
7.) WMD f/Smif N Wessun (Produced by M-Phazes)
8.) That’s Incredible (Produced by EZ Mo Bee)
9.) Ape Muzik f/ The Representativz (Produced by Stu Bangas)
10.) The Art of Disrespekanization (Produced by Khrysis)
11.) Hellz Kitchen (Produced by Evidence)
12.) Shmack Muzik (Produced by Sic Beats)
13.) Twinz (Produced by Ken Ring)
14.) Ruck N Roll (Produced by Stu Bangas)
Look for D.I.R.T. on Duck Down Records to be released on September 30th.
hiphopdx.com
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