From : http://jbisjuststartin.blogspot.com/
Summary of what Prop 9 is from the voter information guide
- Requires notification to crime victims and gives them an opportunity for input from the victim and their families during almost all phases of the criminal justice process
- Victim’s safety is taken in to consideration when determining bail or release on parole.
- Allows more people to attend and testify on behalf of victims at parole hearings
- Reduces the number of parole hearings for each prisoner.
- Requires victims to receive written notification of their constitutional rights
- Establishes time lines concerning parole revocation hearings
In 1982 Prop 8 a.k.a. “Victim’s Bill of Rights” was passed and already made all of the above true in California. This new proposition only reiterates laws that already passed with minor changes and a hidden agenda. When Prop 8 passed, it amended the constitution and other state laws to allow crime victims the right to be notified of, to attend and to state their views at the sentencing and parole hearings of criminals. Prop 8 also established the right of crime victims to obtain restitution from anyone who committed the crime that caused them to suffer a loss.
Now, Prop 9 is disguised to expand the victim’s rights by offering the below:
Crime victims would have the right to 1) prevent the release of certain confidential information about them (which they can do now) 2) refuse to be interviewed at the pretrial stage (which they can do now) 3) protection from harm from other accused individuals (which they get protection now) 4) the return of property which is no longer needed for evidence (which I wouldn’t want my shit back, especially in a murder case) 5) “finality” meaning the final decision made at the hearing (which they can find out now)
Even in the official voter guide there is a note that reads (some of the above rights now exist in statue). The only one I couldn’t find while searching online was the returned evidence items.
Another alleged expansion of this law, which is already in place, states the constitution would be changed to specify the safety of a victim must be taken into consideration by judges in setting bail. Why wouldn’t the judge take the victim and their families in to consideration, especially when they are sitting in the room when the bail/parole is being set? The judge can not ignore the fact that the crime victims are there and I’m sure they play a factor in their decision making.
With California’s overcrowding system, you would assume that the state would go back to their original plans and thoughts regarding earlier release of inmates. Under this new initiative, lifers would be expected to spend life in prison. The state constitution gives a release date to all lifers who were sentenced with a possibility of parole. For instance, my cousin’s date of possible release is 2039. Giving lifers who have a chance of parole that date not only gives them something to strive for and better themselves, but also allows them to redeem themselves. What is worse, knowing your fate, or being given a chance to change it? We are all destined to die, that is apart of life, but we have the opportunity to decide what we do with our fate. When someone is incarcerated the rest of their lives are decided for them, inmates loose that choice that was given to all human beings. A parole possibility gives inmates another chance to change that fate of LIFE in prison. This new measure wouldn’t even give lifers a release date. The average annual cost to incarcerate an inmate is about $46,000, and due to the overcrowding other facilities in prisons like gymnasiums are being used for beds. When a lifer goes up in front of the board, and is denied, they have one year before they can go up again. Under this new measure, they would have to wait 3-15 years, and what is hidden under that is it would be closer to 15 years, no matter what their prison behavior has been.
The only thing that I agree with under this proposition is so minuscule that a new law doesn’t have to be passed for the change to take place, and that is the notification of victims. Currently, victims are notified 30 days before an inmate is released, Prop 9 suggests 90 days. Notifying victims and/or their families is a good thing.
I truly believe that since California legislators received so much shit for their thoughts of releasing prisoners early, their only other option is to build more prisons, in order to deal with the overcrowding. How can they expect to build more prisons when they can’t even get the state budget approved?
The prison system has proposed to take away the only privileges inmates have. They’ve already been forced to use extra space for beds, but now they are going to cut educational/vocational services, conjugal visits and all other rehabilitation programs. It is necessary to rehabilitate prisoners and there are numerous amounts of studies about how important it is. Rehabilitation prepares the inmates for the world again, why would we want to cut those programs, and then let the prisoners out into society, and expect them to function. Many, without rehabilitation, will end up in prison again. Incarceration – Rehabilitation = Incarceration
Many of the state’s school’s furniture is made by inmates, that is all apart of their vocational training, if they take that away what will happen over time when schools need more furniture. The way I see it is, the money paid by the taxpayers, including the money saved by cutting all these programs, will help the state to come up with their funds to build more prisons. There has to be a better way without cutting rehabilitation.
I know it may be hard for some to view prisoners as people, but they are, many made mistakes, were wrongfully accused and they have and will pay for their mistakes in most cases. But at least allow them a second chance, the state already does by giving them a release date for parole. These inmates have families too, just like the victims, and should have a fair chance to survive. Cutting those rehabilitation programs will ensure that they cannot survive once released, if they are released. I haven’t seen any commercials for or against this proposition, so I know most people are clueless about it, as I was.
Voting yes on Prop 9 is not only stupid, but unnecessary, because the victims already have these rights. Voting yes on 9 will only eliminate the rights of inmates, and haven’t they lost enough rights?
Read over your voter guide, go online and educate yourself on Prop 9 and all the other propositions, because November 4th is just around the corner. Be informed and vote No on 9.
http://www.votenoprop9.com/facts.html
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Wu-Tang Clan Documentary Set for Release
Anthony Springer Jr
BET Home Entertainment and Paramount Home Entertainment will release an authorized documentary of the Wu-Tang Clan Nov. 18.
Wu: The Story of the Wu-Tang Clan will feature all nine members of the Staten Island collective and will include never before seen interviews and rare concert footage.
In addition to the DVD documentary, an accompanying CD with the same title will also be released. According to a press release, the CD will include “C.R.E.A.M.,” “Protect Ya Neck,” and solo tracks from Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, Cappadonna, and the late Ol’ Dirty Bastard.
Wu: The Story of the Wu-Tang Clan was named best documentary at the 2007 Hip Hop Odyssey Film Festival. It was also featured at the London Black Film Festival, the American Black Film Festival and will be screened at this year’s UrbanWorld Film Festival.
For those who don’t want to wait until Nov. 18, the documentary will be broadcast on Nov. 13 on BET.
hiphopdx.com
BET Home Entertainment and Paramount Home Entertainment will release an authorized documentary of the Wu-Tang Clan Nov. 18.
Wu: The Story of the Wu-Tang Clan will feature all nine members of the Staten Island collective and will include never before seen interviews and rare concert footage.
In addition to the DVD documentary, an accompanying CD with the same title will also be released. According to a press release, the CD will include “C.R.E.A.M.,” “Protect Ya Neck,” and solo tracks from Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, Cappadonna, and the late Ol’ Dirty Bastard.
Wu: The Story of the Wu-Tang Clan was named best documentary at the 2007 Hip Hop Odyssey Film Festival. It was also featured at the London Black Film Festival, the American Black Film Festival and will be screened at this year’s UrbanWorld Film Festival.
For those who don’t want to wait until Nov. 18, the documentary will be broadcast on Nov. 13 on BET.
hiphopdx.com
DJ Babu Talks Duck Season Vol. 3 And More
Omar Burgess
In addition to his status as an International Turntablist Federation titleholder and duties as a member of Dilated Peoples, DJ Babu has been displaying his ear for beats since dropping Super Duck Breaks under the moniker "Turntablist." Those unfamiliar with Babu’s production work on his own series of Duck Season mixtapes, were likely brought up to speed last year, when one of Babu’s breaks opened the trailer for Jay-Z’s “Blue Magic” single.
“To be honest with you, that was a lot of luck,” says Babu of his addition to the American Gangster project. “I released Beat Tape Vol. 1 last year, and Rik Cordero, who directed the trailer, just happened to be listening to it on his iPod. He played it for Jay-Z [click to read], and Jay loved it.”
Collaborations are more common than ever for Babu, who is also a member of the Beat Junkies. MOP appears on "Dearly Departed" [click to listen] and Bishop Lamont is featured on "My Opinion" [click to listen]. With his upcoming album, Duck Season Volume 3, Babu says he was able to call in favors from his collaborators to accomplish two goals.
“From the jump, my point was to put the spotlight on artists and songs that I felt needed more exposure,” Babu explains. “It’s like a full evolution. Everything I’ve done solo and with my other groups has led up to this point. On this one I produced, and mixed everything.”
Part of that evolution also includes an aptly titled collaboration between MF DOOM and Sean Price [click to read] called “The Unexpected” [click to listen].
“DOOM and I did a record, but there weren’t quite enough verses for a whole song,” says Babu. “I also had a song with Sean Price, Torae [click to read] and Skyzoo [click to read] that got lost when something happened to the Duck Down hard drive. I was wondering what to do and Ruck was like, ‘Fuck it. Let’s just do a new jam.’ Since they had never been on a record together, I figured it would be a dope idea. He did an excellent job of bouncing off of DOOM and changing his style.”
With work on upcoming albums from Defari, and fellow group members Evidence and Rakaa Iriscience, Babu should be busy well into 2009. It’s left him with a wealth of material, which he already has plans for.
“It was only supposed to be 74 minutes, but I ended up recording 27 different songs,” Babu says. “'Duck Season 3.5' will be a bonus that I’m giving away. It’s like six or seven more tracks that didn’t have time to get dropped, plus some remixes. I’ve already got Alchemist, Evidence, DJ Khalil and some other bonus treats.”
DJ Babu's Duck Season Volume 3 will be in stores Oct. 28 via Nature Sounds.
hiphopdx.com
In addition to his status as an International Turntablist Federation titleholder and duties as a member of Dilated Peoples, DJ Babu has been displaying his ear for beats since dropping Super Duck Breaks under the moniker "Turntablist." Those unfamiliar with Babu’s production work on his own series of Duck Season mixtapes, were likely brought up to speed last year, when one of Babu’s breaks opened the trailer for Jay-Z’s “Blue Magic” single.
“To be honest with you, that was a lot of luck,” says Babu of his addition to the American Gangster project. “I released Beat Tape Vol. 1 last year, and Rik Cordero, who directed the trailer, just happened to be listening to it on his iPod. He played it for Jay-Z [click to read], and Jay loved it.”
Collaborations are more common than ever for Babu, who is also a member of the Beat Junkies. MOP appears on "Dearly Departed" [click to listen] and Bishop Lamont is featured on "My Opinion" [click to listen]. With his upcoming album, Duck Season Volume 3, Babu says he was able to call in favors from his collaborators to accomplish two goals.
“From the jump, my point was to put the spotlight on artists and songs that I felt needed more exposure,” Babu explains. “It’s like a full evolution. Everything I’ve done solo and with my other groups has led up to this point. On this one I produced, and mixed everything.”
Part of that evolution also includes an aptly titled collaboration between MF DOOM and Sean Price [click to read] called “The Unexpected” [click to listen].
“DOOM and I did a record, but there weren’t quite enough verses for a whole song,” says Babu. “I also had a song with Sean Price, Torae [click to read] and Skyzoo [click to read] that got lost when something happened to the Duck Down hard drive. I was wondering what to do and Ruck was like, ‘Fuck it. Let’s just do a new jam.’ Since they had never been on a record together, I figured it would be a dope idea. He did an excellent job of bouncing off of DOOM and changing his style.”
With work on upcoming albums from Defari, and fellow group members Evidence and Rakaa Iriscience, Babu should be busy well into 2009. It’s left him with a wealth of material, which he already has plans for.
“It was only supposed to be 74 minutes, but I ended up recording 27 different songs,” Babu says. “'Duck Season 3.5' will be a bonus that I’m giving away. It’s like six or seven more tracks that didn’t have time to get dropped, plus some remixes. I’ve already got Alchemist, Evidence, DJ Khalil and some other bonus treats.”
DJ Babu's Duck Season Volume 3 will be in stores Oct. 28 via Nature Sounds.
hiphopdx.com
Q-Tip Talks The Renaissance & Tribe Documentary
Edwin Ortiz
Though it’s been nearly a decade since Q-Tip’s last official studio release Amplified, the buzz off his new single “Getting’ Up” and its associated album, The Renaissance has been exemplary of the type of emcee he is. Stopping by Hot 97’s Angie Martinez Show, Q-Tip discussed his new album and also a documentary currently being filmed on A Tribe Called Quest.
After co-signing the likes of Charles Hamilton and Lupe Fiasco as fresh faces that are progressing the art form of Hip Hop, Q-Tip explained the title and musical direction of his upcoming release.
“You know we always have these conversations about ‘yo this is wack, this music is wack,’ and whatever, [but] we turning the corner," explained Q-Tip. "I feel like [The Renaissance] is speaking to a resurgence of some Hip Hop music that is just good.”
Another topic that "The Abstract" spoke on was a documentary being produced by fellow New York emcee, Nas. The significance of their relationship dates back to the early 90’s and Nas’ debut album Illmatic, for which Q-Tip produced “One Love” and subsequently was featured on the track.
Obviously behind the project 100 percent, Q-Tip stated, “Nas is producing a documentary on A Tribe Called Quest that Michael Rappaport is shootin’. He approached me like, ‘I wanna shoot it.’ He’s getting into film, and he’s producing it. I saw some of the rushes [unedited footage] and it looks crazy.”
Q-Tip’s album The Renaissance hits stores Nov. 4.
hiphopdx.com
Though it’s been nearly a decade since Q-Tip’s last official studio release Amplified, the buzz off his new single “Getting’ Up” and its associated album, The Renaissance has been exemplary of the type of emcee he is. Stopping by Hot 97’s Angie Martinez Show, Q-Tip discussed his new album and also a documentary currently being filmed on A Tribe Called Quest.
After co-signing the likes of Charles Hamilton and Lupe Fiasco as fresh faces that are progressing the art form of Hip Hop, Q-Tip explained the title and musical direction of his upcoming release.
“You know we always have these conversations about ‘yo this is wack, this music is wack,’ and whatever, [but] we turning the corner," explained Q-Tip. "I feel like [The Renaissance] is speaking to a resurgence of some Hip Hop music that is just good.”
Another topic that "The Abstract" spoke on was a documentary being produced by fellow New York emcee, Nas. The significance of their relationship dates back to the early 90’s and Nas’ debut album Illmatic, for which Q-Tip produced “One Love” and subsequently was featured on the track.
Obviously behind the project 100 percent, Q-Tip stated, “Nas is producing a documentary on A Tribe Called Quest that Michael Rappaport is shootin’. He approached me like, ‘I wanna shoot it.’ He’s getting into film, and he’s producing it. I saw some of the rushes [unedited footage] and it looks crazy.”
Q-Tip’s album The Renaissance hits stores Nov. 4.
hiphopdx.com
Stat Quo To Release "300-400" Unreleased Dr. Dre Tracks
Paul W Arnold
The last time HipHopDX spoke to Atlanta emcee Stat Quo, in August 2007 [click to read] he was shifting gears from promoting the Dr. Dre-produced “Here We Go,” the intended first single from his long-delayed Shady/Aftermath Records debut, Statlanta, to putting his push behind the then recently leaked “G.R.I.T.S. (Girls Raised In The South),” following Interscope’s lack of support for “Here We Go” at radio.
While openly frustrated after having to wait at that point three-and-a-half years for a firm release date for his debut long-player, Stat was still a loyal Shady/Aftermath artist who appeared to be on the verge of finally being able to bask in the glow of his time to shine nationwide. Unfortunately, that moment appeared to be just that, a moment, as after a year of trying to pry himself from his deal with Dre, Stat finalized his release from the label within the past couple months. DX recently spoke with the southern spitter to find out what happened that led to his departure from arguably the most important Hip Hop label of the last decade, and what his plans are now for future releases, as well as the music he recorded over the past five years with the aid of Dr. Dre and Eminem.
Before a planned project entirely produced by DJ Toomp makes its way to the people, as well as a new version of Statlanta, the newly independent artist’s first post-Aftermath project is The South Got Somthin’ To Say. Hitting the net tomorrow (October 23rd), the free mixtape, which features freestyles, as well as new material (including the soul sample driven “The Sun” [click to listen]), derives its title from Andre 3000’s prophetic declaration at the 1995 Source Awards.
“Regardless of what’s going on, considering how well Wayne has done, and ya know, you got T.I. [click to read] and Luda [click to read] and these guys are successful, but I feel like it’s still a bias [against southern artists],” Stat said to DX. “People still don’t wanna give artists that are coming from the southern region the credit and credibility [they’ve earned].”
The South Got Somthin’ To Say is just the first planned free offering to his fans to tide them over until a proper album release, with possibly a new label, can be arranged.
“People been waiting on an album from me for so long I wanna give them some music while I still try to work on the politics behind getting an album out,” said Stat. “I slowed down with doing mixtapes and putting music out…but not no more. I’m gonna put music out at least once a month. I’ma put a whole CD out – at least 13, 12 songs – once a month for the next year.”
Stat can easily crank out that planned CD-a-month, as he records daily in his home studio. But while clearly having modeled his work ethic after his former mentor, his plan to actually release his future recordings as they’re completed stands in stark contrast to his onetime guarantor’s approach to letting the world hear his creations.
“I’m not sittin’ on music no more, man,” Stat declared. “I been around Dr. Dre for so long, and as great as he is one thing I disagree with him about how he handles his business is that he sits on a lot of music. He makes incredible music and it just sits there. And it just gets old. And no one ever gets to hear it. Fuck that.”
“And he don’t even get to enjoy what he made,” Stat continued. “He go to the studio and make all this music, everyday, and never put anything out. I’m not living like that. No. I learned what not to do, and I learned what to do, by dealing with those guys. And that’s one thing that I’m not gonna do. I’m not gonna sit on this music ‘cause people need to hear it period.”
In addition to his own future recordings, Stat plans to release everything he recorded during his stint at Shady/Aftermath.
“All that shit coming out,” he revealed. “Everything that I done rapped on, everybody gonna hear it. You can quote me on that. Everything that I done rapped on, I don’t care who did the beat…Everything that my voice on that I’ve done over these years with them, everybody gonna hear it. I’m just waiting on the right time to put it out…I’m talking about 300, 400 Dre [tracks]. I’m talking about 100 Em beats I’m spittin’ on…”
But what about obvious legal entanglements that could be created by his decision to open up Dr. Dre’s long-rumored vault of unreleased material?
“I don’t give a fuck,” Stat replied. “Listen man, I’m college educated. If they say I can’t rap I’ll go get a job. If that don’t work, I can hit the street. I get money. I ain’t worried about no lawsuit. I ain’t necessarily saying I’m fin to put it in Best Buy and sell it. Nah. It ain’t even about no money for me…with that music. It’s about people need to hear that shit… The world gotta hear what the fuck I was doing with them, because that shit was amazing.”
more on hiphopdx.com
The last time HipHopDX spoke to Atlanta emcee Stat Quo, in August 2007 [click to read] he was shifting gears from promoting the Dr. Dre-produced “Here We Go,” the intended first single from his long-delayed Shady/Aftermath Records debut, Statlanta, to putting his push behind the then recently leaked “G.R.I.T.S. (Girls Raised In The South),” following Interscope’s lack of support for “Here We Go” at radio.
While openly frustrated after having to wait at that point three-and-a-half years for a firm release date for his debut long-player, Stat was still a loyal Shady/Aftermath artist who appeared to be on the verge of finally being able to bask in the glow of his time to shine nationwide. Unfortunately, that moment appeared to be just that, a moment, as after a year of trying to pry himself from his deal with Dre, Stat finalized his release from the label within the past couple months. DX recently spoke with the southern spitter to find out what happened that led to his departure from arguably the most important Hip Hop label of the last decade, and what his plans are now for future releases, as well as the music he recorded over the past five years with the aid of Dr. Dre and Eminem.
Before a planned project entirely produced by DJ Toomp makes its way to the people, as well as a new version of Statlanta, the newly independent artist’s first post-Aftermath project is The South Got Somthin’ To Say. Hitting the net tomorrow (October 23rd), the free mixtape, which features freestyles, as well as new material (including the soul sample driven “The Sun” [click to listen]), derives its title from Andre 3000’s prophetic declaration at the 1995 Source Awards.
“Regardless of what’s going on, considering how well Wayne has done, and ya know, you got T.I. [click to read] and Luda [click to read] and these guys are successful, but I feel like it’s still a bias [against southern artists],” Stat said to DX. “People still don’t wanna give artists that are coming from the southern region the credit and credibility [they’ve earned].”
The South Got Somthin’ To Say is just the first planned free offering to his fans to tide them over until a proper album release, with possibly a new label, can be arranged.
“People been waiting on an album from me for so long I wanna give them some music while I still try to work on the politics behind getting an album out,” said Stat. “I slowed down with doing mixtapes and putting music out…but not no more. I’m gonna put music out at least once a month. I’ma put a whole CD out – at least 13, 12 songs – once a month for the next year.”
Stat can easily crank out that planned CD-a-month, as he records daily in his home studio. But while clearly having modeled his work ethic after his former mentor, his plan to actually release his future recordings as they’re completed stands in stark contrast to his onetime guarantor’s approach to letting the world hear his creations.
“I’m not sittin’ on music no more, man,” Stat declared. “I been around Dr. Dre for so long, and as great as he is one thing I disagree with him about how he handles his business is that he sits on a lot of music. He makes incredible music and it just sits there. And it just gets old. And no one ever gets to hear it. Fuck that.”
“And he don’t even get to enjoy what he made,” Stat continued. “He go to the studio and make all this music, everyday, and never put anything out. I’m not living like that. No. I learned what not to do, and I learned what to do, by dealing with those guys. And that’s one thing that I’m not gonna do. I’m not gonna sit on this music ‘cause people need to hear it period.”
In addition to his own future recordings, Stat plans to release everything he recorded during his stint at Shady/Aftermath.
“All that shit coming out,” he revealed. “Everything that I done rapped on, everybody gonna hear it. You can quote me on that. Everything that I done rapped on, I don’t care who did the beat…Everything that my voice on that I’ve done over these years with them, everybody gonna hear it. I’m just waiting on the right time to put it out…I’m talking about 300, 400 Dre [tracks]. I’m talking about 100 Em beats I’m spittin’ on…”
But what about obvious legal entanglements that could be created by his decision to open up Dr. Dre’s long-rumored vault of unreleased material?
“I don’t give a fuck,” Stat replied. “Listen man, I’m college educated. If they say I can’t rap I’ll go get a job. If that don’t work, I can hit the street. I get money. I ain’t worried about no lawsuit. I ain’t necessarily saying I’m fin to put it in Best Buy and sell it. Nah. It ain’t even about no money for me…with that music. It’s about people need to hear that shit… The world gotta hear what the fuck I was doing with them, because that shit was amazing.”
more on hiphopdx.com
EPMD Album Drops December 9, Redman, 9th Wonder Guest
Jake Paine
After Erick Sermon announced to HipHopDX in June [click to read] that EPMD would be returning with We Mean Business, the reunion album with Sermon and Parrish "PMD" Smith now has a concrete date. On December 9, Fontana will help release the group's first album since 1999's Out of Business.
"The CD is fuckin’ crazy. The shit is bangin’. Like, I ain’t gonna lie to you. It’s real Hip Hop shit for real Hip Hop heads. If you a Hip Hop head, it’s hard to hate the CD. You’re gonna be excited, trust me," Sermon said to DX.
Guests include longtime affiliate and onetime EPMD protege Redman, Havoc from Mobb Deep, Raekwon [click to read], KRS-One [click to read] and 9th Wonder [click to read].
The first single is "Listen Up." "Run It" with KRS-One can be heard on HipHopDX
After Erick Sermon announced to HipHopDX in June [click to read] that EPMD would be returning with We Mean Business, the reunion album with Sermon and Parrish "PMD" Smith now has a concrete date. On December 9, Fontana will help release the group's first album since 1999's Out of Business.
"The CD is fuckin’ crazy. The shit is bangin’. Like, I ain’t gonna lie to you. It’s real Hip Hop shit for real Hip Hop heads. If you a Hip Hop head, it’s hard to hate the CD. You’re gonna be excited, trust me," Sermon said to DX.
Guests include longtime affiliate and onetime EPMD protege Redman, Havoc from Mobb Deep, Raekwon [click to read], KRS-One [click to read] and 9th Wonder [click to read].
The first single is "Listen Up." "Run It" with KRS-One can be heard on HipHopDX
Too Short Forms Group Town Bizness With Noted R&B Artists
By Tai Saint Louis
Just weeks after being inducted as part of this year’s class of VH1 Hip-Hop Honorees, West Coast pioneer Too Short has revealed his latest project.
The veteran of nearly 30 years has assembled an eclectic team of musicians to form his new group Town Bizness.
Town Bizness consists of Short, fellow Oakland natives Silk E and Elijah Baker, and singer Martin Luther.
If the group’s first single “Red Bull & Vodka” is any indication, Town Bizness will be a total departure from what Too Short has delivered to fans over the course of his career.
The song, a Parliament Funkadelic inspired, rock-infused up-tempo number, is garnering an early buzz among critics and internet listeners.
“The group is a combination of artists, musicians, writers and producers united under the love of making good music,” explained Too Short, who plans on releasing the experimental project through his Up All Night Records imprint.
Each of the crew’s primary members brings along a varied musical background. Bassist and vocalist Elijah Baker is one of the founding members of popular 90s R&B group Tony! Toni! Tone!
In addition to his work with the group, Baker has enjoyed success as a studio musician and arranger, working with the likes of Alicia Keys, Tha Dogg Pound, The Coup, Stic.Man and even Club Nouveau.
He is said to be working on a solo project as well.
After garnering a critical accolades as part of the first wave of the Neo Soul movement in the late 90s, singer Martin Luther has collaborated extensively with The Roots and fellow genre-bending soul singer Cody ChesnuTT.
As an actor, using his full name Martin Luther McCoy, the young performer was one of six lead characters in the 2007 Golden Globe winning Beatles musical Across The Universe.
Luther also lent his talents as a singer and guitarist to the film’s soundtrack.
He is currently working on his third studio solo album, Serial Thriller, a follow up to his 2004 sophomore release Rebel Soul Music.
Rapper and singer Silk E has also toured and performed with The Coup.
Of course, Too Short brings the most experience to the group, with seventeen studio albums under his belt, fourteen of which were released since he joined the roster at Jive Records 20 years ago.
He has also collaborated with every one from Ant Banks to Bun B to the Notorious B.I.G., Tupac, E-40, Lil Jon, Foxy Brown and even D4L.
He was celebrated on October 2 alongside Slick Rick, De La Soul, Cypress Hill and Naughty by Nature during the fifth annual VH1 Hip Hop Honors.
allhiphop.com
DJ Khaled's Artist Ace Hood Talks Album; New Video
By Tai Saint Louis
In anticipation of his major label debut Gutta, due out in just one month, We The Best Music/Def Jam rookie Ace Hood recently shot a new video in Atlanta, for his second single “Ride,” drawing the support of some of the biggest names in Hip-Hop.
While the original version of the song and its accompanying clip was released two months ago, a remix featuring T-Pain, Juelz Santana and Rick Ross was released last week.
The new video will feature that extended version as well as cameo appearances from some unexpected name.
Advantageously scheduled for taping in Atlanta on Sunday (October 19), Ace Hood, DJ Khaled and video director Rage benefited from the draw of the BET Hip-Hop Awards, held the day before an impressive list of guests.
In addition to the artists featured on the remix, the new “Ride” video will also feature Akon, Trey Songz, Jim Jones, Jadakiss, Shawty Lo, Soulja Boy, Kardinal Offishall, Pusha T, Gorilla Zoe, Rock City, Young Buck, Jody Breeze, Ray J, DJ Drama, and producers Bangladesh, Don Cannon, Drumma Boi, and Ron Browz.
Busta Rhymes, who coincidentally shot his video for “Arab Money” on the same day and at the same location, also graced Ace Hood’s shoot and landed some of the same cameos.
“It was a real big look, we had a very special situation out here,” Ace Hood told AllHipHop.com. “The video’s gonna come to you real soon, it’s gonna be crazy. We got something special at the end of the video, a new record off the album called ‘Get ‘Em Up’.”
Asked about the support his first artist has received in the industry, DJ Khaled responded that the accolades are a true blessing.
“God is so good,” added the Miami producer and entrepreneur. “Ace Hood is the future.”
Gutta is set to hit stores November 18 and includes guest appearances by Trick Daddy, Flo-Rida, Rick Ross, Akon, and Plies, as well as production by Cool & Dre, The Runners, Danja and the J.U.S.T.I.C.E League.
“I feel great about the situation,” Ace Hood concluded. “My label is behind me a 100%. They hold me down, so I’m feeling good about everything right now.”
allhiphop.com
The Lox's Styles P. & Sheek Louch Ready New Projects
By Tai Saint Louis
The Lox’s D-Block imprint is gearing up for new projects by two of the groups founding members, to be released next month via Koch Records, the label’s distribution home.
The first and most elaborate of the two will be a new mixtape CD/DVD release by Styles P, which will hit stores on November 11.
The project, titled Phantom Gangster Chronicles, Volume 1 features 9 rare Styles P recordings on the CD side and all new material on the DVD.
The visual portion of the project will offer fans six new Styles P videos as well as interviews and behind the scene footage with some of the biggest names in Hip-Hop.
Phantom Gangster Chronicles will be the first new release by the D-Block co-CEO since the release of his 2007 Koch debut Super Gangster, Extraordinary Gentleman, which spawned the hit single “Blow Your Mind” with Swizz Beatz.
The album featured a varied list of collaborators including Akon, Alchemist, Black Thought, Beanie Sigel, Ghostface Killah, and of course Style’s long-time partners Jadakiss and Sheek Louch.
D-Block will follow up Styles’ latest effort with a new Sheek Louch mixtape.
Extinction: Last of a Dying Breed will be available November 25, and will be Sheek’s third project since joining the Koch roster in 2005.
allhiphop.com
The Lox’s D-Block imprint is gearing up for new projects by two of the groups founding members, to be released next month via Koch Records, the label’s distribution home.
The first and most elaborate of the two will be a new mixtape CD/DVD release by Styles P, which will hit stores on November 11.
The project, titled Phantom Gangster Chronicles, Volume 1 features 9 rare Styles P recordings on the CD side and all new material on the DVD.
The visual portion of the project will offer fans six new Styles P videos as well as interviews and behind the scene footage with some of the biggest names in Hip-Hop.
Phantom Gangster Chronicles will be the first new release by the D-Block co-CEO since the release of his 2007 Koch debut Super Gangster, Extraordinary Gentleman, which spawned the hit single “Blow Your Mind” with Swizz Beatz.
The album featured a varied list of collaborators including Akon, Alchemist, Black Thought, Beanie Sigel, Ghostface Killah, and of course Style’s long-time partners Jadakiss and Sheek Louch.
D-Block will follow up Styles’ latest effort with a new Sheek Louch mixtape.
Extinction: Last of a Dying Breed will be available November 25, and will be Sheek’s third project since joining the Koch roster in 2005.
allhiphop.com
Cornell U Acquires Hip-Hop Collection; Bambaataa Hosts Roundtable
By Tai Saint Louis
Cornell University’s Ithaca, New York campus is set to host two days of performances and discussions with some of Hip-Hop’s pioneers next week, to mark the school’s historical acquisition of a collection of documents from Hip-Hop’s early days.
The collection, titled “Born in the Bronx: The Legacy and Evolution of Hip Hop,” was recently presented to the school library’s Division of Rare and Manuscript Collections as a gift from author and collector Johan Kugelberg.
It consists of almost one thousand sound recordings, textile art, books and magazines, as well as the archives of Bronx photographer Joe Conzo, Jr. and more than five hundred original flyers designed by pioneering flyer designers like Buddy Esquire and others.
The “Born in the Bronx” collection will serve as the foundation for Cornell’s growing Hip-Hop collection.
The two-day conference and celebration will kick off Friday afternoon (October 31) with a roundtable discussion led by pioneering DJ and artist Afrika Bambaataa.
Bambaataa will be joined by other pioneers, including Grandmaster Caz, Grandwizzard Theodore, Popmaster Fable, Tony Tone, Disco Wiz, and Kool Lady Blue.
Other speakers at the event will include author Jeff Chang and Conzo, who, along with Bambaataa, contributed to Kugelberg’s 2007 book Born in the Bronx: a Visual Record of the Early Days of Hip-Hop.
“By paying tribute to those who laid the foundation, we tell our own history,” said Bambaataa of the event. “Preserving Hip-Hop’s early years will help future generations understand the places they come from.”
The discussions will be held from 3 - 6:30 pm at Bailey Hall, with performances by a select group of artists starting at 8:30 pm on Friday evening.
Additional performances will be held on Saturday (November 1) from 9:15 am to 3:30 pm. All events are free and open to the public.
“We want the community at large to celebrate Hip-Hop’s contributions to American culture through a better understanding of its origins, which are the focus of this unique collection,” added Katherine Reagan, curator of Rare Books & Manuscripts at Cornell University Library.
The Cornell celebration comes just in time to usher in Hip-Hop History Month, which is recognized by the Universal Zulu Nation as the entire month of November.
It is so designated in recognition of the official birthday of the Universal Zulu Nation, founded by Afrika Bambaataa on November 12, 1973.
November 12, 1974 is also recognized as the official birthday of Hip-Hop.
allhiphop.com
Cornell University’s Ithaca, New York campus is set to host two days of performances and discussions with some of Hip-Hop’s pioneers next week, to mark the school’s historical acquisition of a collection of documents from Hip-Hop’s early days.
The collection, titled “Born in the Bronx: The Legacy and Evolution of Hip Hop,” was recently presented to the school library’s Division of Rare and Manuscript Collections as a gift from author and collector Johan Kugelberg.
It consists of almost one thousand sound recordings, textile art, books and magazines, as well as the archives of Bronx photographer Joe Conzo, Jr. and more than five hundred original flyers designed by pioneering flyer designers like Buddy Esquire and others.
The “Born in the Bronx” collection will serve as the foundation for Cornell’s growing Hip-Hop collection.
The two-day conference and celebration will kick off Friday afternoon (October 31) with a roundtable discussion led by pioneering DJ and artist Afrika Bambaataa.
Bambaataa will be joined by other pioneers, including Grandmaster Caz, Grandwizzard Theodore, Popmaster Fable, Tony Tone, Disco Wiz, and Kool Lady Blue.
Other speakers at the event will include author Jeff Chang and Conzo, who, along with Bambaataa, contributed to Kugelberg’s 2007 book Born in the Bronx: a Visual Record of the Early Days of Hip-Hop.
“By paying tribute to those who laid the foundation, we tell our own history,” said Bambaataa of the event. “Preserving Hip-Hop’s early years will help future generations understand the places they come from.”
The discussions will be held from 3 - 6:30 pm at Bailey Hall, with performances by a select group of artists starting at 8:30 pm on Friday evening.
Additional performances will be held on Saturday (November 1) from 9:15 am to 3:30 pm. All events are free and open to the public.
“We want the community at large to celebrate Hip-Hop’s contributions to American culture through a better understanding of its origins, which are the focus of this unique collection,” added Katherine Reagan, curator of Rare Books & Manuscripts at Cornell University Library.
The Cornell celebration comes just in time to usher in Hip-Hop History Month, which is recognized by the Universal Zulu Nation as the entire month of November.
It is so designated in recognition of the official birthday of the Universal Zulu Nation, founded by Afrika Bambaataa on November 12, 1973.
November 12, 1974 is also recognized as the official birthday of Hip-Hop.
allhiphop.com
Swizz Beatz Scores BET Awards
By Tai Saint Louis
BET has tapped multi-platinum producer Swizz Beats to provide the sounds for the 2008 BET Hip-Hop Awards, set to air tonight (October 23) at 8 pm.
Swizz has created a soundtrack for the two hour broadcast, bolstering the performances and award presentations with some of the hottest music out.
"When BET asked me to score the show I was honored because the Hip Hop Awards this year was the best ever so I jumped to the opportunity", Swizz Beatz told AllHipHop.com. “ "I wanted to be sure that the music I added would make people react and vibe with the show. Shout out to Snaggs and The Individuals.”."
The show, which was taped in Atlanta on October 18, features appearances by bevy of celebrities such as 50 Cent, actress Kerry Washington, singer Keri Hilson, Jim Jones, actor Derek Luke, Lil Cease, Big Boi, Keyshia Cole, Ciara, actor Jamal Woolard and Wu-Tang Clan members GZA, Raekwon, Masta Killa, U-God, Inspectah Deck and RZA.
Performers included T.I., Nas, Ludacris, Nelly, Common, Young Jeezy, N.E.R.D., Ice Cube, Musiq Soulchild, Rick Ross, Soulja Boy, Bow Wow, Plies, Ne-Yo, Swizz Beatz, Avery Storm, and the Queens of Hip Hop - MC Lyte, Yo-Yo, The Lady of Rage, Salt-n-Pepa, as well as Lil' Wayne, who walked away as the evenings top winner.
Jadakiss and DJ Drama lent their services as celebrity announcer and DJ, respectively, joining surprise host T-Pain.
allhiphop.com
BET has tapped multi-platinum producer Swizz Beats to provide the sounds for the 2008 BET Hip-Hop Awards, set to air tonight (October 23) at 8 pm.
Swizz has created a soundtrack for the two hour broadcast, bolstering the performances and award presentations with some of the hottest music out.
"When BET asked me to score the show I was honored because the Hip Hop Awards this year was the best ever so I jumped to the opportunity", Swizz Beatz told AllHipHop.com. “ "I wanted to be sure that the music I added would make people react and vibe with the show. Shout out to Snaggs and The Individuals.”."
The show, which was taped in Atlanta on October 18, features appearances by bevy of celebrities such as 50 Cent, actress Kerry Washington, singer Keri Hilson, Jim Jones, actor Derek Luke, Lil Cease, Big Boi, Keyshia Cole, Ciara, actor Jamal Woolard and Wu-Tang Clan members GZA, Raekwon, Masta Killa, U-God, Inspectah Deck and RZA.
Performers included T.I., Nas, Ludacris, Nelly, Common, Young Jeezy, N.E.R.D., Ice Cube, Musiq Soulchild, Rick Ross, Soulja Boy, Bow Wow, Plies, Ne-Yo, Swizz Beatz, Avery Storm, and the Queens of Hip Hop - MC Lyte, Yo-Yo, The Lady of Rage, Salt-n-Pepa, as well as Lil' Wayne, who walked away as the evenings top winner.
Jadakiss and DJ Drama lent their services as celebrity announcer and DJ, respectively, joining surprise host T-Pain.
allhiphop.com
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Little Brother Update
By: Konsept
Little Brother will be releasing the Drama free edition of Separate But Equal on November 4th. The Drama free edition means this 2006 mixtape will not be hosted by a DJ and will feature 3 unreleased tracks. So can we say this will be a new but old Little Brother album? Here's a taste for those who haven't had a chance to listen to a 9th Wonder-less Little Brother or just don't know of Little Brother:
Little Brother - 'Passion Flower'
undergroundhiphop.com
Little Brother will be releasing the Drama free edition of Separate But Equal on November 4th. The Drama free edition means this 2006 mixtape will not be hosted by a DJ and will feature 3 unreleased tracks. So can we say this will be a new but old Little Brother album? Here's a taste for those who haven't had a chance to listen to a 9th Wonder-less Little Brother or just don't know of Little Brother:
Little Brother - 'Passion Flower'
undergroundhiphop.com
KRS-One Criticizes The Creativity And Materialism Of Rap
KRS-One [click to read] recently rattled a few Hip Hop heads when he embraced newcomer Soulja Boy by welcoming him into the Hip Hop genre [click to read].
Although the prolific South Bronx legend demonstrated a show of respect for Soulja Boy, who has been criticized by media and audiences alike, The Teacha also had a few critiques of his own.
“[Old school Hip Hop has] art, creativity, genuineness, authenticity,” he told Real Talk New York on the red carpet of Vh1’s Hip Hop Honors show. “The youth today, the majority, are not seeking authenticity, because the society in which they live doesn't ask them to be authentic. It asks them to be other people… It doesn’t ask them to be themselves because there’s consequences to being yourself. So our young people don’t be themselves and as a result they follow whatever trend is out there…”
KRS-One also commented boldly on today’s quality of music, drawing major contrasts between new school and old school.
“I would say the new school has more money today than we do, that's the difference. We were poorer then. But that's how Hip Hop was created. You cannot be rich and continue to produce raw Hip Hop.”
Reported by Salima Koroma.
Although the prolific South Bronx legend demonstrated a show of respect for Soulja Boy, who has been criticized by media and audiences alike, The Teacha also had a few critiques of his own.
“[Old school Hip Hop has] art, creativity, genuineness, authenticity,” he told Real Talk New York on the red carpet of Vh1’s Hip Hop Honors show. “The youth today, the majority, are not seeking authenticity, because the society in which they live doesn't ask them to be authentic. It asks them to be other people… It doesn’t ask them to be themselves because there’s consequences to being yourself. So our young people don’t be themselves and as a result they follow whatever trend is out there…”
KRS-One also commented boldly on today’s quality of music, drawing major contrasts between new school and old school.
“I would say the new school has more money today than we do, that's the difference. We were poorer then. But that's how Hip Hop was created. You cannot be rich and continue to produce raw Hip Hop.”
Reported by Salima Koroma.
88-Keys Explains Kanye West Executive Producing Album
Jake Paine
Ten years ago, 88-Keys [click to read] was producing for groups like Black Star and De La Soul. A decade later, the one-time record store clerk has become a perceived rookie to watch this year, approaching next month's release of his debut album The Death of Adam. This afternoon, the New York producer told HipHopDX about his jump from a name buried in liner notes, to potentially the biggest independent Hip Hop success of 2008. "I think it was a natural progression. It took a very long time, and a lot of convincing, from the likes of Kanye West."
Having not intended to showcase his emcee abilities, the evolution of Adam from instrumental project to conventional Hip Hop album was inspired by touring. "It was just an idea that I had in mind for stage show purposes only. Initially, my album was supposed to be mainly instrumental, with a few features to help me bring the story to life or sew together the loose stitches of the album. I went out on tour with Common [click to read] and Q-Tip [click to read] as their opening act, but I was scaled back to having to deejay my set because I didn't appear vocally on my album anywhere, and number two, and I couldn't get any of the features to come out on the road with me," said 88.
After two to three weeks on the tour with the '90s legends, 88-Keys considered his own stage performance. "I would like to give people more of my album and more of me, and let people know who I am exactly, my personality and stuff like that. So I decided to make raps for the instrumentals on my album, that I was only gonna do for stage-show purposes."
In passing the producer mentioned his idea to old friend Kanye West."I told Kanye about my idea. I spit him a couple of verses, and he was floored. I got like a thousand times better at rapping than when he used to hear me back in the days, in like 2000. He started formulating all these ideas for me, and eventually asked me if I'd allow him to be executive producer of my album." While many artists have marketed their projects based on limited affiliation with the Chicago superstar, 88-Keys admitted to DX his own reservations. "I didn't jump at that chance, that opportunity at first. It took me about eight hours to come back around and decide. At first I told him no."
Subsequently changing his mind, the two showcase their collaboration on the album's first single, "Stay Up (Viagra)" [click to listen].
Since West's executive production role of The Death of Adam went public, a lot of attention was brought to the producer who had contributed years of work with the likes of J-Live [click to read], The Pharcyde [click to read] and Mos Def. "I started seeing the doors opening when my mixtape [Adam's Case Files] [click to listen] came out. I don't know if people knew that Kanye was executive producing my album back then. I definitely have to attribute my newfound awareness to Kanye jumping on board. I noticed it way before."
The mixtape, which was made in several days, in comparison to album taking almost three years, is evident to 88. "I was so happy with the feedback that I got from the mixtape. I may've been the only person who knew this, but my album is way better than my mixtape." The work, which included Guilty Simpson, Tanya Morgan [click to read] and Grafh, resonated with the producer. "Most of the people on there are my favorite artists," he said, adding that he first signed Grafh to his Locksmith Music Inc earlier in the decade.
As for the album, the project revisits classic concept album structure, something absent in Hip Hop as of late. "The concept is so tightly-knit," he says of the project, largely inspired by the vagina and its affects on society. "This is a concept album, a story and I hope people will walk away with a few lessons and jewels that I dropped within the story - just on the relationship between men and women, and where we are today in society, health hazards, the family unit."
All the recent attention has brought 88-Keys to the threshold of full circle from his start. Just as Kanye West and Pharrell returned as accomplished, once-slept-on producers, 88 has the opportunity to elevate his status, excelling in his former craft. However, he's not sure if that return awaits. "I'd rather not say who, but really major players in the game reached out to me to get beats. I'm like, 'Man, my hands are tied until my album is done.' I don't even know if I want to get back into making beats and hustling beats and stuff like that. Everything I do has been with divine guidance. Until God tells me what my next move is, my choices now are working on one of six other albums that I have ready to go or work with this Rock with group or get back into making beats." Moments later, 88-Keys hints at his direction. "I'm leaning towards working with this Rock group. But right now, I'm just a puppet."
The Death of Adam releases November 11 on Decon Records.
hiphopdx.com
Ten years ago, 88-Keys [click to read] was producing for groups like Black Star and De La Soul. A decade later, the one-time record store clerk has become a perceived rookie to watch this year, approaching next month's release of his debut album The Death of Adam. This afternoon, the New York producer told HipHopDX about his jump from a name buried in liner notes, to potentially the biggest independent Hip Hop success of 2008. "I think it was a natural progression. It took a very long time, and a lot of convincing, from the likes of Kanye West."
Having not intended to showcase his emcee abilities, the evolution of Adam from instrumental project to conventional Hip Hop album was inspired by touring. "It was just an idea that I had in mind for stage show purposes only. Initially, my album was supposed to be mainly instrumental, with a few features to help me bring the story to life or sew together the loose stitches of the album. I went out on tour with Common [click to read] and Q-Tip [click to read] as their opening act, but I was scaled back to having to deejay my set because I didn't appear vocally on my album anywhere, and number two, and I couldn't get any of the features to come out on the road with me," said 88.
After two to three weeks on the tour with the '90s legends, 88-Keys considered his own stage performance. "I would like to give people more of my album and more of me, and let people know who I am exactly, my personality and stuff like that. So I decided to make raps for the instrumentals on my album, that I was only gonna do for stage-show purposes."
In passing the producer mentioned his idea to old friend Kanye West."I told Kanye about my idea. I spit him a couple of verses, and he was floored. I got like a thousand times better at rapping than when he used to hear me back in the days, in like 2000. He started formulating all these ideas for me, and eventually asked me if I'd allow him to be executive producer of my album." While many artists have marketed their projects based on limited affiliation with the Chicago superstar, 88-Keys admitted to DX his own reservations. "I didn't jump at that chance, that opportunity at first. It took me about eight hours to come back around and decide. At first I told him no."
Subsequently changing his mind, the two showcase their collaboration on the album's first single, "Stay Up (Viagra)" [click to listen].
Since West's executive production role of The Death of Adam went public, a lot of attention was brought to the producer who had contributed years of work with the likes of J-Live [click to read], The Pharcyde [click to read] and Mos Def. "I started seeing the doors opening when my mixtape [Adam's Case Files] [click to listen] came out. I don't know if people knew that Kanye was executive producing my album back then. I definitely have to attribute my newfound awareness to Kanye jumping on board. I noticed it way before."
The mixtape, which was made in several days, in comparison to album taking almost three years, is evident to 88. "I was so happy with the feedback that I got from the mixtape. I may've been the only person who knew this, but my album is way better than my mixtape." The work, which included Guilty Simpson, Tanya Morgan [click to read] and Grafh, resonated with the producer. "Most of the people on there are my favorite artists," he said, adding that he first signed Grafh to his Locksmith Music Inc earlier in the decade.
As for the album, the project revisits classic concept album structure, something absent in Hip Hop as of late. "The concept is so tightly-knit," he says of the project, largely inspired by the vagina and its affects on society. "This is a concept album, a story and I hope people will walk away with a few lessons and jewels that I dropped within the story - just on the relationship between men and women, and where we are today in society, health hazards, the family unit."
All the recent attention has brought 88-Keys to the threshold of full circle from his start. Just as Kanye West and Pharrell returned as accomplished, once-slept-on producers, 88 has the opportunity to elevate his status, excelling in his former craft. However, he's not sure if that return awaits. "I'd rather not say who, but really major players in the game reached out to me to get beats. I'm like, 'Man, my hands are tied until my album is done.' I don't even know if I want to get back into making beats and hustling beats and stuff like that. Everything I do has been with divine guidance. Until God tells me what my next move is, my choices now are working on one of six other albums that I have ready to go or work with this Rock with group or get back into making beats." Moments later, 88-Keys hints at his direction. "I'm leaning towards working with this Rock group. But right now, I'm just a puppet."
The Death of Adam releases November 11 on Decon Records.
hiphopdx.com
LL Cool J, Public Enemy To Be Inducted To Long Island Music Hall Of Fame
To be qualified for induction into the Long Island Music Hall of Fame, an artist or group must have been born in Long Island, or have spent a great amount of their career there. Among those already honored are Cyndi Lauper, Billy Joel, Twisted Sister, Barbara Streisand and Queens’ own Run-DMC. In its second annual induction ceremony, the Long Island Hall of Fame will extend its arms towards artists LL Cool J and Public Enemy who will be honored for their contributions to Long Island, and its music.
Several legendary Hip Hop artists are scheduled as presenters for the event. Grandmaster Flash is listed to honor LL Cool J, whose 20+ years in the Hip Hop arena have proved him to be one of the very few artists to sustain a long and successful recording career. Darryl “DMC” McDaniels of Run-DMC is scheduled to induct Public Enemy whose record “Fight the Power,” was just recently voted the Number 1 record in Vh1’s 100 Greatest Hip Hop Songs poll [click to read].
The event which will also feature appearances by Kurtis Blow and, of course, honoree Chuck D, is slated to acknowledge the accomplishments of artists Mariah Carey, The Ramones, Neil Diamond, Simon and Garfunkel, as well as other Long Island natives.
The Long Island Music Hall of Fame induction is scheduled for October 30, at 7pm.
Reported by Salima Koroma.
Several legendary Hip Hop artists are scheduled as presenters for the event. Grandmaster Flash is listed to honor LL Cool J, whose 20+ years in the Hip Hop arena have proved him to be one of the very few artists to sustain a long and successful recording career. Darryl “DMC” McDaniels of Run-DMC is scheduled to induct Public Enemy whose record “Fight the Power,” was just recently voted the Number 1 record in Vh1’s 100 Greatest Hip Hop Songs poll [click to read].
The event which will also feature appearances by Kurtis Blow and, of course, honoree Chuck D, is slated to acknowledge the accomplishments of artists Mariah Carey, The Ramones, Neil Diamond, Simon and Garfunkel, as well as other Long Island natives.
The Long Island Music Hall of Fame induction is scheduled for October 30, at 7pm.
Reported by Salima Koroma.
J-Zone Says He's Looking To Do Albums, Not Beats
Andres Tardio
J-Zone is fresh off the release of Live @ The Liqua Sto [click to read]. He's gotten critical acclaim for his humorous take on old beer commercials and some fans have wondered what J-Zone would do next. With questions swirling around a potential lyrical retirement, HipHopDX caught up with the emcee/producer to speak on production and his next moves in the game.
"Now, I'm really trying to promote this record, man. I'm not really working on too much. Like, I had done a couple of beats for people, but to be honest, I'm really not trying to do freelance beats like that, anymore. It doesn't really do anything for me at this point, to get one beat on some body's album," J-Zone noted.
He went on to explain the different types of producers and also shared some plans about his future.
"I want to produce whole albums. You have a Jake One [click to read], or a Just Blaze. Those guys are really, really good at giving you a banger. You go to them, you get a joint and that's your single and that shit is bangin'. But then you have producers like Prince Paul and Danger Mouse where they might not give you that hit, but they'll produce you an entire album with a lot of different moods and shit. There's two different kinds of producers: One you go to to get bangers and one that does concept albums. I've kind of done both over the course of my career but I'm really leaning towards doing whole albums."
"Right now, I don't know if it's going to be mine or somebody else's. But, I just want to do full concept albums. I really have no interest in doing regular boom bap Hip Hop albums or being the next super producer doing beats for everybody. I'd rather just work on full length projects. I don't know what I'm gonna do next."
Fans need not worry. According to J, he may actually release another full length solo.
"I'm looking for my next full length, you know? A concept that I could do the whole thing, and kind of show my full range as a producer."
hiphopdx.com
J-Zone is fresh off the release of Live @ The Liqua Sto [click to read]. He's gotten critical acclaim for his humorous take on old beer commercials and some fans have wondered what J-Zone would do next. With questions swirling around a potential lyrical retirement, HipHopDX caught up with the emcee/producer to speak on production and his next moves in the game.
"Now, I'm really trying to promote this record, man. I'm not really working on too much. Like, I had done a couple of beats for people, but to be honest, I'm really not trying to do freelance beats like that, anymore. It doesn't really do anything for me at this point, to get one beat on some body's album," J-Zone noted.
He went on to explain the different types of producers and also shared some plans about his future.
"I want to produce whole albums. You have a Jake One [click to read], or a Just Blaze. Those guys are really, really good at giving you a banger. You go to them, you get a joint and that's your single and that shit is bangin'. But then you have producers like Prince Paul and Danger Mouse where they might not give you that hit, but they'll produce you an entire album with a lot of different moods and shit. There's two different kinds of producers: One you go to to get bangers and one that does concept albums. I've kind of done both over the course of my career but I'm really leaning towards doing whole albums."
"Right now, I don't know if it's going to be mine or somebody else's. But, I just want to do full concept albums. I really have no interest in doing regular boom bap Hip Hop albums or being the next super producer doing beats for everybody. I'd rather just work on full length projects. I don't know what I'm gonna do next."
Fans need not worry. According to J, he may actually release another full length solo.
"I'm looking for my next full length, you know? A concept that I could do the whole thing, and kind of show my full range as a producer."
hiphopdx.com
Kanye West Premiers 808s & Heartbreak In L.A.
Edwin Ortiz
When you’re one of the biggest recording artists in the world, you can choose to have your first listening session anywhere you want. In Kanye West’s case, Tuesday night’s preview of 808s & Heartbreak occurred in a warehouse art gallery in Los Angeles.
Fittingly enough, with direction from famed artist Vanessa Beecroft, the night’s festivities turned into a live art show, with vibrant lights beaming and about 40 women models posing throughout the event. According to Fader, some of the women were only covered by “face obscuring masks seemingly made of faux lamb’s wool.” Along with guests and journalists, celebrities and artists in attendance included Jay-Z, Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, Michael Rappaport, Will.i.Am, Mos Def and Jimmy Kimmel.
True to speculation since the release of the first single, “Love Lockdown,” Mr. West implements the auto-tune sound all throughout 808s & Heartbreak. With only two features in Lil Wayne and Young Jeezy, only one rapping verse is apparent from the "Snowman’s" feature on “Amazing.” On the other side, Weezy’s verse on “Tell Everybody That You Know” has been described by producer Mike Dean as sounding “a lot like Axl Rose.”
The last track of the album, “Coldest Winter,” touches on the subject of Kanye’s late mother Donda West, a matter 'Ye has stayed away from discussing publicly until now.
“The irony for me, someone who has talked about so many labels — Louis Vuitton this, Benz that, this girl look good, I’m not going out with you if you don’t look good — the irony, for me to lose the most important person to Hollywood. And now it’s time to deliver ideas in the most naked form possible.”
Following the end of the album, Kanye West came out with Vanessa Beecroft to address the crowd. He spoke about why he decided on such an early release date for 808s & Heartbreak. “I told L.A. [Reid], [Jay-Z], Gee Roberson and everyone at my label that I needed to put this out right now. I'll have another album coming in June.”
On the subject of his auto-tune use, Kanye defended the style and professed it has given him the most fun he has had in a long time. But as a man who gives his all in his music, Kanye silenced critics on his new direction. “I’m here to bring positivity that cannot be judged.” Alluding to an example of this, 'Ye stated, “It’s like judging a grandmother’s love, and someone says ‘Your grandmother gets two and a half mics.’”
Closing the night, Kanye left the attendees with a notion of self sacrifice that has touched millions of fans worldwide. “I feel like certain things, God uses me as vessel, to express things. He puts me through pain so I can express it in a way that people can listen to my music when they’re going through something and it can help them through that situation… Regardless, it’s gonna be from my heart.”
The tentative track listing for 808s & Heartbreak, which releases on November 25th, according to MTV News Blog:
1. Welcome to Heartbreak
2. Heartless [click to listen]
3. Love Lockdown
4. Robocop
5. Anyway
6. Street Lights
7. Say You Will
8. Bad News
9. Amazing
10. Tell Everybody That You Know
11. Coldest Winter
hiphopdx.com
When you’re one of the biggest recording artists in the world, you can choose to have your first listening session anywhere you want. In Kanye West’s case, Tuesday night’s preview of 808s & Heartbreak occurred in a warehouse art gallery in Los Angeles.
Fittingly enough, with direction from famed artist Vanessa Beecroft, the night’s festivities turned into a live art show, with vibrant lights beaming and about 40 women models posing throughout the event. According to Fader, some of the women were only covered by “face obscuring masks seemingly made of faux lamb’s wool.” Along with guests and journalists, celebrities and artists in attendance included Jay-Z, Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, Michael Rappaport, Will.i.Am, Mos Def and Jimmy Kimmel.
True to speculation since the release of the first single, “Love Lockdown,” Mr. West implements the auto-tune sound all throughout 808s & Heartbreak. With only two features in Lil Wayne and Young Jeezy, only one rapping verse is apparent from the "Snowman’s" feature on “Amazing.” On the other side, Weezy’s verse on “Tell Everybody That You Know” has been described by producer Mike Dean as sounding “a lot like Axl Rose.”
The last track of the album, “Coldest Winter,” touches on the subject of Kanye’s late mother Donda West, a matter 'Ye has stayed away from discussing publicly until now.
“The irony for me, someone who has talked about so many labels — Louis Vuitton this, Benz that, this girl look good, I’m not going out with you if you don’t look good — the irony, for me to lose the most important person to Hollywood. And now it’s time to deliver ideas in the most naked form possible.”
Following the end of the album, Kanye West came out with Vanessa Beecroft to address the crowd. He spoke about why he decided on such an early release date for 808s & Heartbreak. “I told L.A. [Reid], [Jay-Z], Gee Roberson and everyone at my label that I needed to put this out right now. I'll have another album coming in June.”
On the subject of his auto-tune use, Kanye defended the style and professed it has given him the most fun he has had in a long time. But as a man who gives his all in his music, Kanye silenced critics on his new direction. “I’m here to bring positivity that cannot be judged.” Alluding to an example of this, 'Ye stated, “It’s like judging a grandmother’s love, and someone says ‘Your grandmother gets two and a half mics.’”
Closing the night, Kanye left the attendees with a notion of self sacrifice that has touched millions of fans worldwide. “I feel like certain things, God uses me as vessel, to express things. He puts me through pain so I can express it in a way that people can listen to my music when they’re going through something and it can help them through that situation… Regardless, it’s gonna be from my heart.”
The tentative track listing for 808s & Heartbreak, which releases on November 25th, according to MTV News Blog:
1. Welcome to Heartbreak
2. Heartless [click to listen]
3. Love Lockdown
4. Robocop
5. Anyway
6. Street Lights
7. Say You Will
8. Bad News
9. Amazing
10. Tell Everybody That You Know
11. Coldest Winter
hiphopdx.com
Rapper Paris Unveils $10,000 Scholarship With New Album
By Chris Richburg
Socially-conscious lyrics and beats will not be the only things included with Paris’ upcoming album Acid Reflex.
The Bay Area rapper/activist will offer a chance for fans to win a $10,000 award after purchasing the CD in stores or online.
The award will be redeemable as a scholarship towards a post-high school education or housing expenses after purchasing the release in stores or online.
The contest will center around three randomly placed tickets that can be found in copies of Acid Reflex.
Winners will be notified after opening the CD via a message stating “Congratulations! You’ve won $10,000 for either school expenses or housing!” as well as details for claiming the prize.
Non-winning CD packages will not contain notification of any kind.
The chance to make life easier for students amid rising prices across the board served as a motivator for Paris, who could relate to those struggling to maintain a normal way of life in spite of the tight economy.
"We're living in the hardest economic times in recent memory, and this is a perfect way for me to try to ease the pain for my supporters,” the rapper told AllHipHop.com in a statement. "I realize that money is tight for many people and that music is becoming less and less of a priority when everything is rising but wages. This is not only a perfect way for me to express my gratitude to those who continue to support me, but to emphasize both the importance of higher education and the need to continue to support art of substance."
Paris' Guerrilla Funk Recordings is preparing to release Acid Reflex, which is slated to hit stores Oct. 28.
The album will feature appearances from Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and Parliament/Funkadelic frontman George Clinton, in addition to Public Enemy leader Chuck D.
Among the topics addressed are black-on-black crime and violence, police brutality and war as well as politics and what Paris calls "the need for more of an equal balance between positive and negative influences in entertainment."
For details on the Acid Reflex contest, visit www.guerrillafunk.com.
allhiphop.com
Evidence of Dilated Peoples Preps The Layover EP
By Ismael AbduSalaam
After a successful 2007 that saw rave reviews for his solo debut The Weatherman, Grammy award-winning, Dilated Peoples member Evidence is set to release the follow EP The Layover.
Knowing that Hip-Hop history is decorated with many classic EPs that launched legendary careers, Evidence promises that his offering will have no filler and lives up to the legacies of Ice Cube’s Kill at Will, Pete Rock and CL Smooth’s All Souled Out, and Bone Thugs-n-Harmony’s Creepin’ on ah Come Up.
To achieve that end, the rapper/producer proclaimed he had to again ignore the trendy albeit confining labels all too often bestowed upon forward-thinking Hip-Hop artists.
“Backpack sucked, then backpack was cool, then backpack sucked again, and now backpack is cool again,” Evidence explained to AllHipHop.com. “Alternative was wack, now alternative is better. All I know is I do what I do. I’m not a hipster, I’m not gangsta. If it’s a backpack, I gotta buy one, ‘cause I don’t own one. I’m doing Progressive-Hop. It’s a new genre. Put it in your iTunes.”
Production for the title track lead single is handled by acclaimed board smith Khrysis, and is available now for download.
The EP also features appearances from will.i.am, Blu, Phonte, Defari, and Alchemist.
In preparation for the project’s release, Evidence has partnered with LA’s DJ Skee for The Layover Mixtape.
Notable for being Evidence’s first mixtape offering, the tape will contain unreleased tracks, remixes, and rarities from the Dilated veteran’s catalogue.
In addition, fans this month will now be able to catch Evidence on the “Still High Tour 2008,” headlined by Method Man and Redman.
The Layover EP is scheduled for release on November 25 via CD and iTunes download.
allhiphop.com
Black Milk and Bishop Lamont Embark on Caltroit Tour
By Chris Richburg
Detroit underground rap veteran Black Milk has hit the road with West Coast rhymesayer Bishop Lamont as they combine their talents for an international trek across Europe and the United States on the Caltroit Tour.
The outing will also feature Guilty Simpson as well as Slum Village’s Elzhi and Boot Camp Click member Sean Price, who will perform on additional dates in the US.
According to Black Milk, the tour offers a great chance to reconnect with his international fans.
"It is always good to go to Europe because there is so much energy in the crowd and so much love over there," the rapper stated about the tour, which kicked off Thursday (Oct. 9) at Train in Aarhus, Denmark and concludes with a Nov. 15 stop at the Key Club in Los Angeles.
The Caltroit Tour comes in support of a trio of releases that include Black Milk and Bishop Lamont’s 2007 collaborative album Caltriot, Guilty Simpson's critically acclaimed debut album Ode To The Ghetto and Black Milk’s forthcoming solo album Tronic.
The trek marks the first time Bishop Lamont and Black Milk have come together on stage to perform since the release of Caltroit.
A fixture on the underground rap scene since the release of his 2007 debut solo album Popular Demand, Black Milk has produced and appeared on songs from various artists such as Genius/GZA, Busta Rhymes, Pharoahe Monch, Kidz in the Hall, Kardinal Offishall, Guilty Simpson and Strange Fruit Project.
The Random Axe member, whose recent projects include The Set Up with Fat Ray and Black Milk Presents Caltroit with Bishop Lamont, is currently gearing up to release a full-length album in early 2009.
Black Milk’s Tronic is slated to hit stores and digital outlets on Oct. 28.
The following is a list of Caltroit tour dates:
Oct. 9 Aarhus, Denmark Train
Oct. 10 Zurich, Switzerland Aktionshalle
Oct. 11 Paris, France Gibus
Oct. 13 Leipzig, Germany Connie Island
Oct. 14 Amsterdam, Holland Paradiso
Oct. 15 Rotterdam, Holland Watt
Oct. 16 Cologne, Germany TBA
Oct. 17 Basel, Switzerland Das Schiff
Oct. 18 Oslo, Norway Bla
Oct. 24 New York, NY Southpaw- Tronic album release party
Oct. 28 Detroit, MI The Shelter@ St. Andrews Hall- Tronic album release party
Nov. 6 Toronto, Canada Revival- Tronic album release party w/Elzhi
Nov. 15 Los Angeles, CA Key Club w/Sean Price
Detroit underground rap veteran Black Milk has hit the road with West Coast rhymesayer Bishop Lamont as they combine their talents for an international trek across Europe and the United States on the Caltroit Tour.
The outing will also feature Guilty Simpson as well as Slum Village’s Elzhi and Boot Camp Click member Sean Price, who will perform on additional dates in the US.
According to Black Milk, the tour offers a great chance to reconnect with his international fans.
"It is always good to go to Europe because there is so much energy in the crowd and so much love over there," the rapper stated about the tour, which kicked off Thursday (Oct. 9) at Train in Aarhus, Denmark and concludes with a Nov. 15 stop at the Key Club in Los Angeles.
The Caltroit Tour comes in support of a trio of releases that include Black Milk and Bishop Lamont’s 2007 collaborative album Caltriot, Guilty Simpson's critically acclaimed debut album Ode To The Ghetto and Black Milk’s forthcoming solo album Tronic.
The trek marks the first time Bishop Lamont and Black Milk have come together on stage to perform since the release of Caltroit.
A fixture on the underground rap scene since the release of his 2007 debut solo album Popular Demand, Black Milk has produced and appeared on songs from various artists such as Genius/GZA, Busta Rhymes, Pharoahe Monch, Kidz in the Hall, Kardinal Offishall, Guilty Simpson and Strange Fruit Project.
The Random Axe member, whose recent projects include The Set Up with Fat Ray and Black Milk Presents Caltroit with Bishop Lamont, is currently gearing up to release a full-length album in early 2009.
Black Milk’s Tronic is slated to hit stores and digital outlets on Oct. 28.
The following is a list of Caltroit tour dates:
Oct. 9 Aarhus, Denmark Train
Oct. 10 Zurich, Switzerland Aktionshalle
Oct. 11 Paris, France Gibus
Oct. 13 Leipzig, Germany Connie Island
Oct. 14 Amsterdam, Holland Paradiso
Oct. 15 Rotterdam, Holland Watt
Oct. 16 Cologne, Germany TBA
Oct. 17 Basel, Switzerland Das Schiff
Oct. 18 Oslo, Norway Bla
Oct. 24 New York, NY Southpaw- Tronic album release party
Oct. 28 Detroit, MI The Shelter@ St. Andrews Hall- Tronic album release party
Nov. 6 Toronto, Canada Revival- Tronic album release party w/Elzhi
Nov. 15 Los Angeles, CA Key Club w/Sean Price
Rappers Talk Economy, Women During BET Panel Discussion
By Ismael AbduSalaam
In light of America’s current economic crisis and next month’s historic presidential election, BET Networks announced today (October 10) plans to host two panel discussions next weekend at Clark Atlanta University.
The first discussion, “Get Your Money Right,” will aim to engage young people on the importance of financial literacy in their college and early professional careers.
Topics to be covered include repairing/understanding credit scores, asset and wealth management, vehicle financing, the basics of banking, and home ownership.
Assisting in these discussion are a diverse array of Hip-Hop artists and entrepreneurs, such as Ludacris, Russell Simmons, Dr. Benjamin Chavis, Fat Joe, Yung Berg, Brian Michael-Cox, Monica, Gorilla Zoe, and 106 & Park’s Terrence and Rosci.
The panel will commence on Friday October 17 from 5:00-7:00PM.
The second session on Saturday October 18 entitled “Fly Girls Vote: Hip-Hop Women for Change,” centers on the powerful role female voters historically play in elections, and how that power can be translated to the women of Hip-Hop culture.
Running from 11:00 AM -1:00 PM and hosted by pioneer MC Lyte, the discussion will first frame the potential of today’s female Hip-Hoppers through the lens of history.
Models to be reviewed include Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, and more current examples in Shirley Chisholm, Sister Souljah, and Michelle Obama.
Confirmed so far for the growing panel list are cultural critic/journalist Michaela Angela Davis, Brown University professor of Africana Studies Tricia Rose, and activist Moya Bailey.
Also featured will be clips of the award-winning documentary Chisholm 72: Unbought and Unbossed, which details Shirley Chisholm’s historic 1972 bid to be the first black woman elected president.
Immediately following will be short Q&A session with director Shola Lynch and journalist Lola Ogunnaike.
Ecstatic about the valuable wealth of information being given, BET Networks Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Debra Lee marveled at the potential number of young lives that will be changed for the better.
“We’re so excited to bring the BET Hip-Hop Awards back to Atlanta for the third year in a row, and we couldn’t be more thrilled about partnering with these organizations for these timely and important panel discussions about financial literacy and the role women of color play in politics,” Lee explained to AllHipHop.com. “BET Networks has always had a strong commitment to educating and empowering our audience, and these two forums will provide our audience with a unique and engaging opportunity to discuss and learn about two of the most critical issues of today.”
Both panels are free to the public and will precede the BET Hip-Hop Awards being held Saturday night October 18 at the Atlanta Civic Center.
allhiphop.com
In light of America’s current economic crisis and next month’s historic presidential election, BET Networks announced today (October 10) plans to host two panel discussions next weekend at Clark Atlanta University.
The first discussion, “Get Your Money Right,” will aim to engage young people on the importance of financial literacy in their college and early professional careers.
Topics to be covered include repairing/understanding credit scores, asset and wealth management, vehicle financing, the basics of banking, and home ownership.
Assisting in these discussion are a diverse array of Hip-Hop artists and entrepreneurs, such as Ludacris, Russell Simmons, Dr. Benjamin Chavis, Fat Joe, Yung Berg, Brian Michael-Cox, Monica, Gorilla Zoe, and 106 & Park’s Terrence and Rosci.
The panel will commence on Friday October 17 from 5:00-7:00PM.
The second session on Saturday October 18 entitled “Fly Girls Vote: Hip-Hop Women for Change,” centers on the powerful role female voters historically play in elections, and how that power can be translated to the women of Hip-Hop culture.
Running from 11:00 AM -1:00 PM and hosted by pioneer MC Lyte, the discussion will first frame the potential of today’s female Hip-Hoppers through the lens of history.
Models to be reviewed include Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, and more current examples in Shirley Chisholm, Sister Souljah, and Michelle Obama.
Confirmed so far for the growing panel list are cultural critic/journalist Michaela Angela Davis, Brown University professor of Africana Studies Tricia Rose, and activist Moya Bailey.
Also featured will be clips of the award-winning documentary Chisholm 72: Unbought and Unbossed, which details Shirley Chisholm’s historic 1972 bid to be the first black woman elected president.
Immediately following will be short Q&A session with director Shola Lynch and journalist Lola Ogunnaike.
Ecstatic about the valuable wealth of information being given, BET Networks Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Debra Lee marveled at the potential number of young lives that will be changed for the better.
“We’re so excited to bring the BET Hip-Hop Awards back to Atlanta for the third year in a row, and we couldn’t be more thrilled about partnering with these organizations for these timely and important panel discussions about financial literacy and the role women of color play in politics,” Lee explained to AllHipHop.com. “BET Networks has always had a strong commitment to educating and empowering our audience, and these two forums will provide our audience with a unique and engaging opportunity to discuss and learn about two of the most critical issues of today.”
Both panels are free to the public and will precede the BET Hip-Hop Awards being held Saturday night October 18 at the Atlanta Civic Center.
allhiphop.com
Cash Money Expands, Hits Pop Charts
By Ismael AbduSalaam
After a phenomenal year that saw the label release Lil Wayne’s blockbuster smash Tha Carter III, Cash Money Records is poised to move its success to the pop arena.
An integral part of this new direction is the 25 year-old, alternative singer/songwriter Kevin Rudolf, who this past summer hit the Billboard Pop Top 10 with the Lil Wayne assisted “Let It Rock.”
With support from Universal Republic Records CEO Monte Lipman, Slim explained that Cash Money’s primary 2009 focus is making the label a music fan’s one stop for quality Hip-Hop, Soul, Rock and Pop.
“Kevin Rudolf is about to roll out another great chapter of the Cash Money legacy,” he proposed. “Monte and Avery Lipman have proven time and time again they know how to break one of a kind artists like Kevin whose creativity is his greatest asset. We look forward to teaming up with their great staff to make Kevin a force to be reckoned with in rap, pop, rock and beyond.”
Despite Kevin Rudolf’s resume already including the names Justin Timberlake, David Banner, Nelly Furtado, and the Black Eyed Peas, Slim is aware that his label must discard the image heavy branding normally utilized to push Hip-Hop artists.
“It helps that Lil Wayne’s name appears on the label, too, but it also demonstrates the rapper’s crossover appeal. Rudolf’s sound is more akin to Justin Timberlake than anything street cred,” Williams recently told Variety Magazine. “[The rap and pop world] are much different. Rap and image go hand in hand; you have to make people know who the artist is. Pop and rock, get a hit record and you’re on.”
Kevin Rudolf’s debut album In the City is set for release on November 25.
allhiphop.com
After a phenomenal year that saw the label release Lil Wayne’s blockbuster smash Tha Carter III, Cash Money Records is poised to move its success to the pop arena.
An integral part of this new direction is the 25 year-old, alternative singer/songwriter Kevin Rudolf, who this past summer hit the Billboard Pop Top 10 with the Lil Wayne assisted “Let It Rock.”
With support from Universal Republic Records CEO Monte Lipman, Slim explained that Cash Money’s primary 2009 focus is making the label a music fan’s one stop for quality Hip-Hop, Soul, Rock and Pop.
“Kevin Rudolf is about to roll out another great chapter of the Cash Money legacy,” he proposed. “Monte and Avery Lipman have proven time and time again they know how to break one of a kind artists like Kevin whose creativity is his greatest asset. We look forward to teaming up with their great staff to make Kevin a force to be reckoned with in rap, pop, rock and beyond.”
Despite Kevin Rudolf’s resume already including the names Justin Timberlake, David Banner, Nelly Furtado, and the Black Eyed Peas, Slim is aware that his label must discard the image heavy branding normally utilized to push Hip-Hop artists.
“It helps that Lil Wayne’s name appears on the label, too, but it also demonstrates the rapper’s crossover appeal. Rudolf’s sound is more akin to Justin Timberlake than anything street cred,” Williams recently told Variety Magazine. “[The rap and pop world] are much different. Rap and image go hand in hand; you have to make people know who the artist is. Pop and rock, get a hit record and you’re on.”
Kevin Rudolf’s debut album In the City is set for release on November 25.
allhiphop.com
Eminem's Album Titled 'Relapse'; Rapper Teams With Nike
By Roman Wolfe
Hip-Hop star Eminem squashed rumors about his album title last night (October 15) and announced the album's official title: Relapse.
The rapper debuted his track "I'm Having A Relapse" last night (October 15) live during the release party for his latest book The Way I Am in New York.
The announcement puts other rumored titled like Empack and King Mathers to rest. Relapse, which is Eminem's highly anticipated sixth album, is due in stores sometime in 2008.
In related news, Eminem has teamed with Nike's Jordan brand again, to create his own custom Jordan's.
The Jordan 2, which is the rapper's favorite in the Air Jordan collection and is his second collaboration with Nike to create a custom sneaker.
The limited edition sneaker is being produced by Eminem in different colorways than then original AJ2.
The sneakers also come with handwritten lyrics from various Eminem song's on it. The rapper made 313 pairs in the limited edition run, as a tribute to Detroit, as 313 is the city's area code.
All proceeds from the sale of the show will be donated to Eminem's non-profit, The Marshall Mathers Foundation, which helps disadvantaged youth in the state of Michigan.
allhiphop.com
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Jedi Mind Tricks: A History of Violence
By: Lolly
On November 11th, Vinnie Paz, Stoupe, and Jus Allah reunite to bring you A History of Violence, the first Jedi Mind full-length collaborative since 1998's Violent By Design. You can download "Monolith" off the album here by right clicking and hitting "Save As" or "Download File":
Jedi Mind Tricks - 'Monolith'
You can also catch Jedi Mind on the road by attending one of their upcoming shows in promotion of their new album.
Jedi Mind A History of Violence Tour Dates:
10/24/08: Cambridge, MA @ Middle East
10/25/08: Portland, ME @ TBA
10/26/08: South Burlington, VT @ Higher Ground
10/28/08: Chicago, IL @ Subterranean
10/30/08: Englewood, CO @ Gothic Theatre
10/31/08: Boulder, CO @ Fox Theatre
11/03/08: Las Vegas, NV @ Jillian's
11/05/08: Santa Cruz, CA @ The Catalyst
11/06/08: San Francisco, CA @ Slim's
11/07/08: Los Angeles, CA @ Henry Fonda Theatre
11/08/08: San Diego, CA @ Canes Bar & Grill
11/09/08: Tempe, AZ @ Clubhouse Music Venue
11/11/08: Albuquerque, NM @ Sunshine Theater
11/13/08: San Antonio, TX @ TBA
11/14/08: Austin, TX @ Emo's
11/15/08: New Orleans, LA @ The Parish at House of Blues
11/17/08: Orlando, FL @ The Social
11/20/08: Carrboro, NC @ Cat's Cradle
11/21/08: Wilmington, NC @ The Soapbox
11/23/08: Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
11/24/08: Allentown, PA @ Crocodile Rock
11/25/08: New York, NY @ The Blender Theatre at Gramercy
11/26/08: Philadelphia, PA @ Trocadero Theater
undergroundhiphop.com
Free Mixtape: History of Hip-Hop Radio [NYC 1986-1991]
By: Lolly
History of Hip-Hop Radio [NYC 1986-1991] is a retrospective mixtape that delves into the hip-hop radio of the 80's and early 90's. The compilation is dedicated to Teddy Tedd and Special K, aka the Awesome Two, who hosted a late night Saturday radio show on WNWK and helped push the new art form into the world of radio. You can download the mixtape here and check out the tracklisting below.
Tracklisting for History of Hip-Hop Radio:
1) The Awesome Two feat. Special K and Teddy Tedd on WNWK (0:56)
2) Chuck Chillout KISS FM (0:49)
3) "Lasagne" P-Fine "Rap This" on WNYU feat. B Boys, December 1986 (5:49)
4) "Who's Gonna Carry The Whole Wheat?" - Stretch Armstrong Show 1991 (6:45)
5) WKCR DJ Skinny Bones drops/IDs (1:54)
6) Harry Allen DJ Search Promo (0:54)
7) Microphone Prince & Count Busy D WNYE 91.5FM (1:54)
8) Chuck Chillout Gets Mean On The Turntables KISS 98.7FM (3:55)
9) "150 Girls Chasing Us Down The Parking Lot" P-Fine, Donald D, Brother B 1986 (2:40)
10) Hank Love & DNA
11) Mr Magic on Magic 106FM WHBI (2:01)
12) Jam Crew (1:59)
13) "The Biggest Hip-Hop Club In America" Union Square commercial 1986 (0:59)
14) WBLS Mr. Magic (1:55)
15) Microphone Prince & Count Busy D WNYE (1:25)
16) "Here to serve the public…Not for shout-outs" Half Pint (1:10)
17) "Oscar's Afro Shop" Half Pint (1:29)
18) Hank Love & DNA (8:39)
19) Stretch Armstrong Show (9:21)
20) "Do the right thing" WNWK 1989 (2:11)
21) "Ed's Records" Half Pint (0:51)
22) Bobbito shouts (2:47)
23) KISS FM (1:13)
24) 90.3FM WBAU (1:27)
25) 90.7FM WFUV The Phantom (2:03)
26) Cynthia from Bed Stuy shouts (1:50)
27) "….Macaroni Squad Shouts" WFUV (2:29)
undergroundhiphop.com
History of Hip-Hop Radio [NYC 1986-1991] is a retrospective mixtape that delves into the hip-hop radio of the 80's and early 90's. The compilation is dedicated to Teddy Tedd and Special K, aka the Awesome Two, who hosted a late night Saturday radio show on WNWK and helped push the new art form into the world of radio. You can download the mixtape here and check out the tracklisting below.
Tracklisting for History of Hip-Hop Radio:
1) The Awesome Two feat. Special K and Teddy Tedd on WNWK (0:56)
2) Chuck Chillout KISS FM (0:49)
3) "Lasagne" P-Fine "Rap This" on WNYU feat. B Boys, December 1986 (5:49)
4) "Who's Gonna Carry The Whole Wheat?" - Stretch Armstrong Show 1991 (6:45)
5) WKCR DJ Skinny Bones drops/IDs (1:54)
6) Harry Allen DJ Search Promo (0:54)
7) Microphone Prince & Count Busy D WNYE 91.5FM (1:54)
8) Chuck Chillout Gets Mean On The Turntables KISS 98.7FM (3:55)
9) "150 Girls Chasing Us Down The Parking Lot" P-Fine, Donald D, Brother B 1986 (2:40)
10) Hank Love & DNA
11) Mr Magic on Magic 106FM WHBI (2:01)
12) Jam Crew (1:59)
13) "The Biggest Hip-Hop Club In America" Union Square commercial 1986 (0:59)
14) WBLS Mr. Magic (1:55)
15) Microphone Prince & Count Busy D WNYE (1:25)
16) "Here to serve the public…Not for shout-outs" Half Pint (1:10)
17) "Oscar's Afro Shop" Half Pint (1:29)
18) Hank Love & DNA (8:39)
19) Stretch Armstrong Show (9:21)
20) "Do the right thing" WNWK 1989 (2:11)
21) "Ed's Records" Half Pint (0:51)
22) Bobbito shouts (2:47)
23) KISS FM (1:13)
24) 90.3FM WBAU (1:27)
25) 90.7FM WFUV The Phantom (2:03)
26) Cynthia from Bed Stuy shouts (1:50)
27) "….Macaroni Squad Shouts" WFUV (2:29)
undergroundhiphop.com
Redman And Method Man Recapture Flame With "Still High" Tour
Edwin Ortiz
Method Man can bask in his Wu-Tang glory, and Redman may have the solo tip on lock, but when combined they’re on a higher level (pun intended).
After performing together for Rock the Bells this summer, the duo is now currently set to embark on a 38-day national tour that is sure to hit a spot near you. In addition to big venues, such as the House of Blues in Chicago, Los Angeles, and Dallas, Method Man and Redman are planning several college invasions as a testament to their fan base.
Tagging along for the two-month journey is one of Hip Hop’s most potent lyricists of the present, Massachusetts-bred Termanology. With his recent album release, Politics As Usual, Term has proven himself more than ready to share the stage with two of Hip Hop's most seasoned veterans. Also, it doesn’t hurt that he grew up on them.
"I’ve been listening to Method Man and Redman my whole life and it’s an honor to tour with them. I look forward to tearing it down for the fans," said Termanology. The current dates for the Still High Tour are listed below, with the first show starting in Providence, RI.
Oct-10 PROVIDENCE, RI (LUPOS)
Oct-12 BURLINGTON, VT (HIGHER GROUND)
Oct-13 WORCESTER, MA (PALLADIUM)
Oct-14 NEW HAVEN, CT (TOADS PLACE)
Oct-15 PHILADELPHIA, PA (TROCADERO)
Oct-17 NEW YORK, NY (NOKIA THEATER)
Oct-18 RICHMOND, VA (TOADS PLACE)
Oct-19 BALTIMORE, MD (SONAR)
Oct-21 BLOOMINGTON, IN (BLUEBIRD)
Oct-22 CINCINNATI, OH (MAD HATTER)
Oct-23 DETROIT, MI (CROFOT BALLROOM)
Oct-24 CHICAGO, IL (HOUSE OF BLUES)
Oct-27 MINNEAPOLIS, MN (FIRST AVE)
Oct-29 DENVER, CO (OGDEN)
Oct-30 ASPEN, CO (BELLY UP)
Oct-31 SALT LAKE CITY, UT (MURRAY THEATRE)
Nov-02 BELLINGHAM, WA (WWU - VIKING UNION)
Nov-04 PORTLAND, OR (ROSELAND)
Nov-05 SEATTLE, WA (SHOWBOX SODO)
Nov-06 ARCATA, CA (HUMBOLDT ST. UNIV.)
Nov-07 SAN FRAN, CA (GRAND BALLROOM)
Nov-08 SANTA CRUZ, CA (THE CATALYST)
Nov-09 PETALUMA, CA (PHOENIX THEATER)
Amanda Diva Speaks About Women In Hip Hop Exhibit
Danielle Harling
In Harlem this weekend, both Hip Hop pioneers and fans will come together at The Hip Hop Culture Center to honor just a few of the women who have made their marks in the genre of Hip Hop.
Entitled "The Impact Of Women In Hip Hop," the day long event will include dance performances, film screenings, a fashion show, and more.
Among the women being honored are Cindy Campbell, Sha Rock, Jazzy Joyce, Dream Hampton, Danyel Smith, and others.
Also being honored at the event is Amanda Diva, a Hip Hop renaissance woman whose titles have included poet, journalist, singer, lyricist, artist, and radio/TV host.
"It definitely feels great to know that my work is being recognized," Diva told HipHopDX. "It's a very tiresome grind, this Hip Hop shit. Especially as a female sometimes it can feel like you're not really making any headway, but when people recognize you in that manner, it definitely is encouraging and inspiring."
The Impact Of Women In Hip Hop event comes at a time where some may say that Hip Hop is in somewhat of a slump, making it even harder for the female emcee.
"There's always this [constant] talk about, 'Oh, there's no female emcees anymore'. Here it is, it's just that there's no support of female emcees anymore…There's such a bleak landscape for Hip Hop in general that it's only more difficult for females," Amanda Diva added.
Currently, Amanda Diva is the host of DivaSpeak TV which can be found [here]; she is also wrapping up her latest EP Love Experience.
The Impact Of Women In Hip Hop takes place on Saturday, October 4 at Harlem's Hip Hop Culture Center from 9 a.m.-10:30 p.m.
Sugar Hill Gang To Release 2009 Album, Talk Election
As the grandfathers of Hip Hop, the veteran rappers have earned their respect and even talk politics
The Sugar Hill Gang has announced that they are planning to release an album early next year.
The legendary group and pioneers of rap paved the way for Hip Hop with their popular 15 minute hit, "Rapper's Delight." The 1979 single, recorded over Chic's "Good Times," launched Hip Hop into the commercial and cultural phenomenon that it is today.
"We were the ones who kicked the door in, so everyone else could come in and eat," member Wonder Mike told LdTV. "Whodini came on the scene, and Kurtis [Blow] was already there so he was getting some love. And Grandmaster Flash & the Furious 5...so we really kicked the door for us and these other groups. So we need that respect."
To commemorate the 30th anniversary of the single, group members Big Bank Hank, Master Gee, and Wonder Mike plan to put out an album next year. They have even confirmed that they will be collaborating with the UK's own Dizzee Rascal.
In addition to talking about their upcoming musical endeavors, the veteran emcees also had much to say about the 2008 presidential elections.
"Change for the better," says Wonder Mike. "Not the same old politics where you say what's clever during the election, but when you get into office its like, 'I didn't say that...' That's why we like [Barack] Obama. Because he keeps it real. Even in his campaign he was complimenting John McCain on his service to the military. He's ready for change and we're ready for change."
The Sugar Hill Gang has not confirmed a date nor a title for their next album.
Talib Kweli & David Banner Headline Hip Hop Live Tour
Danielle Harling
As part of the Sony sponsored Hip Hop Live tour, Talib Kweli, David Banner, Little Brother, and B.O.B. will soon embark on a 19-city, nationwide tour where attendees will not only witness a great show, but will also get an exclusive sneak peak at Sony's newest products.
All of the Hip Hop Live performers will perform with The Rhythm Roots All-Stars, a collective of musicians who have performed with the likes of Outkast, Black Eyes Peas, and more.
As an added perk, with the purchase of a Hip Hop Live concert ticket concert-goers will receive a free pair of Sony EX earbud headphones.
For more information on the Hip Hop Live tour and to purchase tickets visit, www.sony.com/hiphoplivetour.
Tour dates are as follows:
Tour Dates:
(w/ Little Brother supporting)
10/08/08 BOULDER, CO FOX THEATER
10/10/08 MINNEAPOLIS, MN FIRST AVENUE
10/13/08 BLOOMINGTON, IN BLUEBIRD
10/16/08 FT. LAUDERDALE REVOLUTION
(w/ B.O.B. supporting)
10/18/08 ATHENS, GA GEORGIA THEATRE
10/19/08 ASHEVILLE, NC ORANGE PEEL
10/20/08 WASHINGTON, DC 9:30 CLUB
10/21/08 PHILADELPHIA, PA TROCADERO
10/24/08 BOSTON, MA SHOWCASE LIVE! (TALIB KWELI ONLY)
10/25/08 NEW YORK, NY NOKIA THEATRE
Saigon Talks Second Album Before Releasing The First
Edwin Ortiz
As months go by without a label or release date in sight for The Greatest Story Never Told, Saigon’s buzz has been in a prolonged stalemate.
Acknowledging this conflict, Saigon updated fans and supporters on Monday about current ventures through his MySpace blog, including information regarding his second album. “What’s up ya’ll. It’s the Almighty Yardfather checking in. I’m sorry I haven’t been on the scene lately, I’m busy working on my second album titled 'Thank God' even though the first one has never come out… [I] Gotta stay working Homie.”
Besides work on his next album, Saigon also explained that he’s open for features on artist’s songs, whether it be a signed act or an aspiring teenager on MySpace.
“I get about 1000 messages a day asking about how much I charge for features or collabos so I figured I’d answer everybody at once.... Well, it all depends how dope the artist is, the better you are, the lower the price straight up. Hit us up at 516-554-6183 or if you wanna spend more hit up Violator Management and leave your information... I’ll get right back to you.”
Though Saigon poses an offer that many can’t refuse, he made sure a very prudent point was established before everyone began inquiring on the topic. “If you’re wack, don’t even bother cause I don’t associate with wackness at all. I don’t give a fuck how much money you got....But if you got some heat, send the track and I’ll send it back to you with those flavor crystals on it.”
Sadat X Talks New Digital Album, Brand Nubian Reunion
Danielle Harling
Well-known as one-third of the group Brand Nubian, New York rapper Sadat X is digitally releasing his fifth solo album, entitled Generation X, today.
On Generation X, fans of Sadat X can expect "grown man Hip Hop." And according to Sadat X the album is, "Something that people my age that still love Hip Hop could appreciate."
Released on Affluent Records, Generation X features production by Will Tell and includes the current single "Never".
As far as releasing his album digitally, Sadat X says, "I would like to see it stay simple but times change so I guess you gotta change with the times."
Although Generation X is being released digitally this month, physical copies of the album will be made available in stores in December.
For the eager Brand Nubian fans, a comeback from the trio is already in the works.
"They can definitely expect a reunion," Sadat X revealed to HipHopDX. "We trying to get it all together, you know, for that purpose. You will hear something from all three of us again."
Rick Ross Admits Correctional Officer Past
Omar Burgess
Rick Ross now admits he had in fact been a Florida correctional officer for 18 months. Photos originally surfaced of Ross (real name William Leonard Roberts) in July on the website TheSmokingGun.com. After seeing the pictures, Ross initially told AllHipHop.com the photos were doctored.
"Online hackers put my face when I was a teenager in high school on other peoples' body," said Ross. "If this shit was real don't you think they would have more specifics, like dates and everything? Fake pictures are created by the fake, meant to entertain the fake."
In subsequent interviews, Ross would go on to blame the uncovered photos on everything from digital manipulation to "haters." But in the latest issue of Don Diva magazine, the Florida emcee changes course regarding his pre-rap career.
"Yes, it's me," Ross tells Don Diva. "I never tried to hide my past. I put my name inside my CDs. My company has my [Social Security number]. I could've put a company name...I done been up and I done been down and that's what makes me what I am. I never ratted on a nigga. I never prosecuted a nigga. I never locked up a nigga, that's first and foremost. I always felt that me being the nigga that I am, I never owed a nigga an explanation. When I'm making my music and I'm talking about blow, it's because I did it. When I say that I'm rich off cocaine, it's because I did it. Those are the street principals that apply."
Blu Discusses Being Offered Deal By Suge Knight
Slav Kandyba
Blu [click to read] has finally confirmed what some industry insiders have known for a while: Suge Knight was once interested in signing him.
The Los Angeles emcee spills the details in an interview with Jeff Weiss, who interviewed him for L.A. Weekly's cover story on Los Angeles' emerging crop of rappers. Faced with the possibility of pursuing deals with Death Row or Roc-A-Fella Records, Blu decided to spurn both and link with upstart indie Sound in Color, which distributed his critically acclaimed Below the Heavens [click to read], release in August 2007.
"My cousin was engineering at Death Row and he played the CD for Suge right when he got out [of prison], and had already signed Left Eye and Crooked [I]," Blu said. "My boy told me, just come with me and we'll get signed by either Suge or Roc-A-Fella."
Death Row Records, besides Kurupt's 2004 album, Against Tha Grain, has not released an active artist's album of new material since Michel'le, Knight's spouse at the time, released Hung Jury one decade ago.
hiphopdx.com
BET Cancels Rap City
BET network has confirmed plans to cancel its long-running Hip-Hop series Rap City, effective by the end of this month.
Created by broadcasting veteran Alvin Jones in 1989, the video series chronicled Hip-Hop’s growing video music market, competing directly with Yo! MTV Raps.
The fledgling series was able to distinguish itself from its larger MTV competitor by not just focusing on mainstream rappers, but also championing videos and interviews from underground and up and coming artists.
Originally hosted by “The Mayor of Rap City” Chris Thomas for its first several years, Rap City’s “golden age” was 1994-1999, when the program was hosted by the colorful and knowledgeable duo of Joe Clair and Leslie Segar AKA Big Lez.
In 1999, the two hour slot was repackaged as Rap City: Tha Basement and christened with new host Big Tigger.
Tigger’s run birthed the popular Freestyle Booth session, where MCs would feature their best rhymes or freestyles following their interviews.
After completing their verses, many times with Tigger joining in, the MC(s) would traditionally sign the booth’s wall.
These freestyle sessions produced memorable performances from artists such as Ludacris, The Roots, Killer Mike, Chamillionaire, Jay-Z, Jadakiss, Obie Trice, Xzibit, Cassidy and numerous others.
Since Tigger’s 2005 departure, the show failed to establish a concise direction, running through a myriad of hosts and focusing on commercial artists, which failed to showcase Hip-Hop’s diverse talent pool as done years before.
Consequently, the show was reduced to a one hour time slot as rating suffered.
The final Rap City episode will commence on October 29, making it the longest running Hip-Hop program at 19 years.
At press time, the show is scheduled to be replaced by The Deal, an hour long video series hosted by DJ Diamond Kutz on November 10.
allhiphop.com
Def Jux Renews, Expands EMI Deal
Successful independent label Definitive Jux and EMI Music’s Caroline Distribution have verified plans to renew their long-standing 2000 distribution agreement, which will now include expanded licensing and marketing promotion.
Under the revised agreement, EMI ‘s Brand Partnership, Licensing, and Synch team will work for the Def Jux roster to establish deals that create a closer connection between the artists and fans.
In addition, EMI will focus on expanding the label’s digital presence throughout US and Canadian markets.
Def Jux co-founder Amaechi Uzoigwe explained to AllHipHop.com that the expansion of the Jux brand through a more focused digital campaign is the next logical step for a label that’s been the driving force for Hip-Hop avant-garde since 1999.
“Caroline/EMI is our longest standing and most successful partnership and we look forward to extending it,” Uzoigwe revealed. “We’re also excited and intrigued by the way the organization is recalibrating itself for the future and look forward to accessing the dynamic resources being made available to help grow our brand and find continued success together.”
The first release from this new agreement will be The Mighty Underdogs, a highly anticipated collaborative effort between Gift of Gab (Blackalicious) and Latef (Quannum).
EMI Global Senior Vice President Dominic Pandiscia elaborated that the partnership’s first release will expose Def Jux’s music to previously unaware fans hungry for innovative Hip-Hop.
“Definitive Jux is one of the most creative forces in Hip-Hop today,” Pandiscia stated emphatically. “It’s an honor to build upon the relationship we’ve had by lending our brand partnership, promotion and digital expertise to help its artists connect with an even greater number of fans.”
In early 2009, the label will drop a new album from Cage, who will also release a autobiographical film through Shia LeBeouf’s Grassy Slope Films.
The Mighty Underdogs is set for release of October 14.
allhiphop.com
Industry Execs To Share Wisdom At Global Mixx Retreat
Former 3rd Bass member/Hip-Hop mogul MC Serch and Chicago-based rap trio Hot Stylz will be on hand this weekend to share their experiences and knowledge of the music industry at this year’s Global Mixx (GMIXX) Music Retreat.
The fourth annual event, which starts today (Oct. 3) with an exclusive VIP Models and Bottles kickoff reception from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Victor Hotel in Chicago, will also include a Your Choice concert presented by the Cook County Young Democrats for Obama.
The concert is scheduled take place from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. tonight at the Center for Performing Arts.
On Saturday (Oct. 4), the retreat will continue with a voter’s registration drive for unregistered voters which will be held from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Blackstone Hotel.
Among the events taking place will be a Music Meets Politics forum moderated by Deborah Crable and music industry veteran George Daniels from noon to 2 p.m.
In addition to the forum, retreat goers will be able to attend various music, artist and marketing panels on topics such as Marketing and Branding, Producer and Songwriter, ’Artistry of Music’ - Artist and Development and DJ/Mixshow. MC Search and Hot Stylz will be among a diverse group of panelists that include mixtape DJ S&S, Bryan Michael Cox, producer Ezekiel ‘Zeke’ Lewis, producer No ID, attorney Dedra Davis, publicist Regina Daniels and others.
“We’re excited at the outpouring of support and anticipated attendance of this year’s Global Mixx Music Retreat," said the event’s executive producer and creator Mary Datcher. “I hope to continue to build and recognize the importance of the music and entertainment industry in our beautiful city of Chicago.”
Top industry professional will also be on hand to critique record label listening party demos at the retreat, which will also allow independent artists the chance to perform at the “Unsigned and Unstoppable” artist showcase at the Shadow Bar.
A chairman’s ball presented by NYCE Marketing and A:M Vodka will be held Saturday evening at Carnivale.
The weekend will conclude on Sunday (Oct. 5) with brunch at the Sushi Samba and the GMIXX awards ceremony.
Radio personalities Nina Chantelle of KISS-103.5 and Leon Rogers of WGCI-107.5 will host of the event, which honors DJs, artists and key tastemakers for their impact on the music industry.
Birthplace Of Hip-Hop Sold For $7 Million
The building that helped give birth to Hip-Hop was sold to a new owner last week for $7 million dollars, AllHipHop.com has confirmed.
Developer Mark Karasick outbid the current tenants for 1520 Sedgwick Avenue, which is located in the Bronx.
Kool Herc and his sister threw a party on August 11, 1973, in the first floor recreational room of 1520 Sedgwick Avenue.
The address is recognized as the place that Kool Herc hosted his first parties with his sister Cindy, eventually leading to the birth of Hip-Hop music in the early 1970’s.
Tenants had hoped to purchase the 100-unit building unit to preserve the buildings legacy as well as to prevent Karasick from raising rents in order to push the current residents out of their apartments.
In July of 2007, 1520 Sedgwick was declared eligible to be listed as a state and federal landmark.
Kool Herc told reporters he was disappointed that no one from the Hip-Hop community “stepped up to the table in some form of fashion” to show support.
The sale marks a two-year battle for the residents, who now fear that their rents will be raised in order to cover the costs associated with selling the building.
allhiphop.com
Cold Crush Brother Kay Gee Inks New Label Deal
Kay Gee of the legendary Cold Crush Brothers has confirmed today (October 8) the signing of an imprint deal with Jake Records for his growing production company, Killer Grooves.
Jake Records, an independent, Seattle-based label that also represents Digital Underground, will distribute all of Kay Gee’s upcoming Killer Grooves’ projects, which includes a summer 2009 solo release.
Formed in 1978, Kay gained worldwide fame with the Cold Crush Brothers, who popularized intricate, melodic back and forth rhyme routines, and energetic live show interaction with fans.
Dubbed “The Rolling Stones of Hip-Hop” due to their large crowds and innovations brought to the art of emceeing, the group holds the distinction of being the first Hip-Hop act ever to perform in Japan.
That popularity extended to the group being featured prominently in the seminal 1982 film Wild Style, the first motion picture to chronicle Hip-Hop culture.
Now with a fledgling imprint that boasts production credits with KRS-One, Funkmaster Flex, and Chuck D, Kay Gee detailed that the main goal of his new venture was to put the focus in Hip-Hop culture back on the actual music.
“Jake Records is on the move in this business, and they work in a way that is completely unique to the industry,” Kay explained to AllHipHop.com. “I love the style, attitude, and approach that Jake Records puts into their work. The partnership with [Jake Records CEO] Scott Thomas and his team is exciting, to say the least. Above all things, they appreciate great music, which is a passion I share.”
The first scheduled release in 2009 will come from Dancehall artist Dainjamental, notable for producing and collaborating with Wu Tang Clan, KRS-One, Cassidy, Onyx, and Killah Priest.
In addition, the Cold Crush legend is developing a music series entitled Hip-Hop Live, a collection of digitally remastered live performances from the Cold Crush Brothers and other acts.
At press time, Hip-Hop Live is set for a Spring 2009 release.
allhiphop.com
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