Wednesday, February 25, 2009
A Lawsuit Is Filed Over Plans For A Tupac Biopic
Negotiations between Morgan Creek and Amaru began in November for life rights that would form the basis of the untitled project. According to the complaint, a written contract was in place for life rights, with Morgan Creek claiming that Amaru is “refus(ing) to honor and perform a contract of a production of the film based on the life of Tupac Shakur.” The company seeks damages and other relief. “There is no agreement with Morgan Creek, there never was, and there never will be,” said Amaru attorney Skip Miller.
realtalkny.com
J Dilla Beats Compiled For “Dillanthology, Volume 1″
The disc, titled Dillanthology, Volume 1, will include 11 standout cuts Jay Dee put together for such rap acts as De La Soul (“Stakes Is High”), Busta Rhymes (“Show Me What You Got”), The Pharcyde (“Runnin’”), Common (“The Light”) The Roots (“Dynamite”) and Erykah Badu (“Didn’t Cha Know”), among others.
The Detroit-based producer died from a cardiac arrest due to complications from lupus on Feb. 10, 2006. Along with his die hard fan-base, Dilla is remembered by his two daughters, his mother Maureen Yancey (aka Ma Dukes), and younger brother Illa J – who released a CD of his own last year called Yancey Boys – produced entirely by Dilla.
Dillanthology, Volume 1 will hit stores via Rapster Records on March 31st. - Elan Mancini
xxlmag.com
Mark DiDia Named New EVP of Island Records
DiDia, who was the former EVP of Columbia Records, has a long history in the music business, also holding positions at Capitol, Hollywood, Def American and Geffen Records. He will now be overseeing Island’s day-to-day tasks.
“I’m thrilled to join the legendary Island Records,” DiDia said in a press release. “I’m a true champion of the artists on the roster and I look forward to working closely with all of them.”
As XXLmag.com previously reported, Island Def Jam has made several changes in 2009. Jermaine Dupri, who was the president of the Island’s urban division, was fired in early January. Def Jam also recently filled their vice president position, appointing former Atlantic Records VP of urban A&R Chris Hicks to the seat. Hicks will pick up where the late Shakir Stewart left off – Evanka Williamson
xxlmag.com
Eminem Producers Suit Against Aftermath Goes To Trial
The 2007 lawsuit initiated by former Eminem producers FBT Productions LLC against Aftermath/Interscope is going to trial today. Marky and Jeff Bass of FBT Productions are credited with production on the first three Eminem albums. The suit was spawned from a longstanding industry practice of record labels licensing content to third party distributors, such as Apple's iTunes. In the original suit, FBT claims Aftermath did not have the right to license songs to Apple or other third party content providers. Record labels have the right to distribute physical CDs, but this lawsuit implies that they don't have the right to distribute music digitally.
The Honorable Ronald M. Whyte will preside over the case of F.B.T. Productions LLC et al v. Aftermath Records et al. A source close to the situation spoke with HipHopDX to clear up false reports that Eminem initiated this lawsuit against Universal, which is the distributor of both Aftermath and Eminem's Shady Records imprint.
"It's these two guys that had Em way before he signed to Aftermath," the source explains. "Neither Eminem nor anyone in his camp is associated with them in any way. The suit includes Universal because they distribute Aftermath, but Em wants to make sure everyone knows he's not involved in this."
A similar suit was filed in 2004 by the Eight Mile Style publishing company, after the song "Lose Yourself" was licensed to Apple for an iTunes ad which also promoted his album. As it currently stands, when Apple sells songs for $0.99 on iTunes, approximately $0.70 go to the label, which then in turn gives $0.091 cents to the publisher.
hiphopdx.com
Rick Ross Vows To Outsell 50 Cent
With the diss records at a current cease fire, the debate as to who won between Rick Ross [click to read] and 50 Cent [click to read] is still uncertain. Of course, if you asked each rapper their opinion, the decision would be unanimous.
Speaking with MTV, Ross pointed to one of his latest diss tracks as an example of how he allegedly took down the G-Unit ringleader. “My freestyles as you could hear them, 'Kiss My Pinky Ring [click to listen],' I do them in 20 minutes and put them out there. Those crumble empires.”
While 50 Cent has spent more time developing humorous skits to discredit Ross, “The Boss” feels his dedication to the musical side of the beef has outshined any cartoon posted by Curtis. “People [are] listening to how potent the music is,” Ross explained. “That's all this really is for me. I'm not really excited yet. All this is a platform for me to show people how talented I am. How much better of a lyricist I am.”
Making one of his boldest claims yet, Ross put Deeper Than Rap on the same level as Get Rich Or Die Tryin’ [click to read] in terms of impact and quality, saying, “If [50] sold 10 [million], my next album should sell 12.”
hiphopdx.com
Wordsmith Talks Chubb Rock, I.N.C. Collaborations
Baltimore's Wordsmith has a busy 2009 planned, as he will release both the Bridging the Gap album with Golden Era emcee Chubb Rock and a separate album with Dutch artist I.N.C. The Poet entitled A Baltimore Martini. Chubb Rock's name was re-introduced to a new generation of Hip Hop fans after Swizz Beatz flipped his standard "Treat 'Em Right" for a remix of Mary J. Blige's "Just Fine" featuring Lil Wayne in 2008.
"I think I represented the Golden Era very well and though Wordsmith represents the new school, he has such a great knowledge and approach to his lyrics as well as his spirit on the whole album," explains Chubb Rock. "This album is a keeper, just like 'Paid in Full,' '3 Ft. High and Rising,' you need the 'Bridging the Gap' album."
In anticipation of Bridging the Gap, Chubb Rock and Wordsmith will partner with HipHopDX to exclusively release the A Crack in the Bridge mixtape in June. Exclusive promotional tracks will be released from the mixtape in the months leading up its June release. The song "Back In" featuring Kima Collins [click to listen] is currently available in HipHopDX's Audio section.
Additionally, Wordsmith will parlay his international experience into another project by releasing another collaborative effort with I.N.C. The Poet of the Netherlands. The Nu Revolution Camp emcee and Groningen's own will release A Baltimore Martini during the second quarter of 2009 through the UK's Dented Records.
"Growing up with a father that was in the armed forces for over 25 years, I have lived in numerous countries and experienced a wide range of cultures," Wordsmith explains. "It was natural for me to want an album deal overseas. The great thing about working with I.N.C. was he is very conceptual and it gave me an chance to put together a whole project that tells a story and incorporates life experiences people can relate to."
In addition to premiering A Crack in the Bridge, HipHopDX will provide updates on both Bridging the Gap and A Baltimore Martini as their respective release dates get closer.
hiphopdx.com
Naughty By Nature Touring Canada
East Orange, New Jersey Hip-Hop group Naughty By Nature will embark on a cross-Canada tour starting tomorrow (February 23). The group will kick off the tour at The Queens Hotel in Nanaimo and will travel through 16 different markets before winding down March 15 in Ottawa at the Capital Music Hall. Toronto rapper Peter Jackson will open for the group during the tour. Naughty By Nature is currently in the studio working on Anthem Inc., their first album in over eight years. “There’s no set date, but before this New Year comes in, you’re definitely gonna be hearing some exclusives, some appetizers to let them know we coming," the group’s front man Treach told AllHipHop.com in a previous interview. “We’re gonna be giving the people stuff to let them know the music is there, the group is there."
Tour dates are listed below:
Feb 23 Nanaimo, BC The Queens Hotel
Feb 25 Vancouver, BC The Commodore
Feb 26 Whistler, BC Garfinkels
Feb 27 Penticton, BC Element
Feb 28 Castlegar, BCElement
March 1 Banff, AB Wild Bills March 3 Calgary, AB Cowboys
March 5 Lethbridge, AB The Roadhouse
March 6 Ft McMurray Cowboys
March 7 Edmonton, AB Edm Event Centre
March 9 Winnipeg, MB (venue TBC)
March 10 Thunder Bay, ON The Rockhouse
March 12 Toronto, ON Circa
March 13 Barrie, ON The Roxx
March 14 Montreal, QC (venue TBC)
March 15 Ottawa, ONThe Capital Music Hall
allhiphop.com
New RNC Chairman Targeting Hip-Hop Fans To Boost GOP
Republican National Committee (RNC) chairman Michael Steele is launching an effort to attract new members by utilizing Hip-Hop to make the Grand Old Party (GOP) an appealing option worth considering.
“We need messengers to really capture that region - young, Hispanic, black, a cross section,” Steele told The Washington Times. “We want to convey that the modern-day GOP looks like the conservative party that stands on principles. But we want to apply them to urban-suburban Hip-Hop settings.”
Among the vehicles being utilized by the politician are the Internet as well as advertisements on radio, print and television.
With his new campaign, Steele hopes to hopes to dispel talk of the Republican Party becoming “too regionalized” and move past defeats in states like Virginia and North Carolina and concerns that his party needs to “reach beyond our comfort zones.”
Steele’s plan comes as a new challenge for the former Maryland lieutenant governor, who be came the first African-American chairman of the 168-member RNC after defeating four opponents on January 30.
According to Steele, the solution to his current dilemma lies in the Republicans’ need to upgrade its image among attract young blacks and Hispanics.
To ensure the project has a fair chance of success, the former state Republican Party chairman is holding weekly meetings with House and Senate republicans to explore what the Times labeled as “strategy, message, policy and tactics.”
“It will be avant garde, technically,” he said. “It will come to table with things that will surprise everyone - off the hook.”
During the presidential election of 2008, a number of rappers and organizations hit the road to campaign on behalf of the future president, including The Hip-Hop Caucus, T.I., Young Jeezy, Nas, Common and Jay-Z, who gave a performance during Obama’s official inauguration event.
“We missed the mark in the past, which is why we are in the crapper now,” Steele said. “We had the White House, the Senate and the House and were not building a farm team over the last years…”
allhiphop.com
Sha Money XL Talks One Stop Shop Conference
Sha Money XL, CEO of Money Management Group, is holding his Third Annual One Stop Shop Producer Conference in Phoenix, Arizona at the Hyatt Hotel from May 9th-10th.
The conference is a producer showcase that has provided informative panels involving notable Hip-Hop producers such as No ID, Just Blaze, Jim Jonsin, Drumma Boy, DJ Premier, Swizz Beats and more.
Sha aggregated suggestions from his website to make this years 2009 One Stop Shop Producer Conference more efficient and geared towards the needs of the attendees.
"The most feedback received from the people, is that they want more chances to play their music, they want one on one attention, and we plan to do that this year. It's going to be more interactive, more surprise battles, and spotlights," Sha Money XL explained.
This year the conference has been slated to involve a new addition to their list of panels within the conference, called the Power Play Panel featuring Chris Lighty, Bryan Leach, and Chaka Zulu of Disturbing Tha Peace.
Respected video directors Rik Cordero, Chris Robinson, Lil X and more are early confirmed guests scheduled to attend this year’s One Stop Shop Conference.
Within its two years of existence, the conference has managed to attract thousands of producers from all over the world, who seek to be educated on music publishing, production, audio engineering techniques, and receive hands on training.
To register for the 2009 One stop Shop Producer Conference, please visit www.moneymanagementxl.com
allhiphop.com
Diddy Takes 'Last Train To Paris' On New LP
Mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs has announced the released date and name of his sixth LP, which is titled Last Train To Paris.
Combs described Last Train To Paris as “Electro-Hip-Hop Soul Funk,” which will usher in a new movement called “train music.”
"Last Train To Paris is deeper than any of the other stuff I have ever made, it's a profound love story,” Combs explained to AllHipHop.com in a statement. “It's me with my shades off. It's the truth."
The album is the follow-up to Combs’ last solo album Press Play, which debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 upon its release in October of 2006.
Since last solo release, Combs has been involved in a number of projects, from launching new TV shows with MTV (Making the Band, Run’s House), movies (Notorious) to introducing new fragrances (I Am King) and clothing lines from his Sean John fashion empire.
"I've been a businessman for the past two years, it's time for me to focus on being an artist again," Combs said of his return to rap. “I am going to show the world a new refreshing side of me. Get on or get off!"
Last Train To Paris will feature production by Tricky, The Neptunes, The Dream, Rodney Jerkins, Mario Winans and hit maker T-Pain.
Last Train To Paris is due in stores September 22.
allhiphop.com
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Maino’s Debut Pushed Back To May
The album, If Tommorrow Comes…was originally supposed to drop last year but was later pushed to this month and then March. It is now slated for a May release date.
The disc will include Maino’s hit single “Hi Hater” as well as his latest single “All The Above” which was produced by Just Blaze and features T-Pain. Along with Blaze, Swizz Beatz and Dangerous LLC have also been tapped to provide beats for the project.
In related news the BK MC has released his first book on his new company Hustle Hard publishing. Gangsta’s Don’t Die, which was written by Mouse, will come out on March 1 and is available on Amazon.com. – Elan Mancini
xxlmag.com
Nas Expecting Son, Confirms Damian Marley Album
Nas took to the blogs late last week to update fans about his wife, R&B singer, Kelis’ pregnancy. The pair just recently announced the exciting news that they are expecting their first child together.
In a blog posted to Russell Simmons' website, Globalgrind.com, Nas enthusiastically announced that he and Kelis will indeed be expecting a baby boy.
“Personally, life is good,” he wrote on the site. “I'm sure that y'all heard K is expecting. The Internet seems to be more excited than I am. It's crazy! I got too much to think about, and I didn't wanna leave all my fans out the loop. But I wanted to let ya'll know from me personally that I'm having my first SON!!!!!”
This will be the Hip Hop couple’s first child, after having married back in 2005 in an Atlanta wedding. Nas has one 15 year-old daughter from a previous relationship with ex-fiancée, Carmen Bryan. In addition to the joyful baby news, Esco also updated fans on the status of his upcoming album with reggae artist Damian “Jr. Gong" Marley.
"I been celebrating life ya'll,” he continued. “Also I want you all to know that the Nas and Damian Marley album is coming in the next few months. It's something we have been secretly working on. Tour this summer too!”
As he told MTV news at the Grammy Awards show about the album, "[Damian and I are] tryin' to build some schools in Africa with this one, and trying to build empowerment. We're tryin' to show love and stuff with this album. So, the record's… all about really the 'hood and Africa also as well. That's coming out real soon."
There’s no news yet on when exactly that album will be dropping.
hiphopdx.com
Sha Money XL Talks One Stop Conference, 50 Cent & DJ Premier
Sha Money XLspoke with HipHopDX late this week, to reveal several changes to his career for 2009. The onetime G-Unit President and longtime production coordinator for 50 Cent [click to read] and G-Unit Records announced some details about his upcoming annual One Stop Producer's Conference [click here], May 9 and 10 in Phoenix, Arizona.
This year, Sha Money revealed that fans asked for different panelists, speakers and producers, and he met those requests. "Normally, I kind of put in the whole panel based on who I would like to see, and who I think [attendees] would like to see. This year, on my site [MoneyManagementXL.com], I asked questions to all the members of the site. They'd email me, saying 'Listen, I want to see this person, this person, this person.' So I took a tally of all the emails that came in, and completely gave these guys who they asked to see." Those requests led to Sha involving producers such as Pete Rock [click to read] and Evidence in these year's festivities.
"I made it totally the experience they're looking for," added. The Queens native said that this year's event speaks to his own heroes and inspirations of the craft. "These are people who I appreciate, and the music and the legacy that they're leavin' with us, and creating it for us as Hip Hop. It's not like they're asking to see some Pop producer that ain't really Hip Hop. Pete Rock, [DJ Premier], that's the best it gets. I love that part."
In addition to the aforementioned guests, Sha has also emphasized stronger technology panels and more product demonstrations. This year in particular, he added, there are a lot of new machines and equipment geared towards Hip Hop production.
Having mentioned DJ Premier's continued involvement in One Stop, Sha Money was also asked about the highly-talked about collaboration, "Shut Your Bloodclot Mouth" between the famed producer and 50 Cent. "That was single-handedly me. [50 Cent] passed on the beat the first time. I re-sent it to 50's engineer, Ky Miller and he played it again for 50 while 50 was in the studio. He got it this time; 50 got it. All of a sudden, 'Shut Your Bloodclot Mouth' is everywhere, all over the Internet. He killed it!"
The reaction to the leak caused Sha Money to want to finish the epic collaboration. "I called him and said, '50, you've got to finish this record. This shit is crazy.' There's certain records you get calls on, 'cause you can feel the energy. That was one record, that I told him was big. He's not into names. He don't care who produces the track. He don't want to sit in the studio with these guys or nothin'; he want to make his record. So when this particular record hit the streets, the feedback was so fuckin' monstrous, it was like, 'Know what Fif? You've got to finish this song.' So we're working on that now."
The effort was reportedly a response to numerous fans and critics asking the veteran Hip Hop artists to come together. "He just wanted to get it out, 'cause he knew Hip Hop really wanted it. He heard it when you asked about it. He heard when Premo talked about the record not being played. He heard everything. So 50 really listens to what people really want. And he went back in and fuckin' in."
As for the changes, Sha Money XL said that the mixing was underway. "You know Premo gotta do scratches; it's still a work in progress. He had [scratches] there, but 50 didn't use them [the first time]. It's still a work in progress." The song will thus reportedly change before appearing on the upcoming Before I Self Destruct.
Perhaps the biggest news Sha Money XL offered DX though, was a change in his career. "My management, and you and HipHopDX will be the first to know, I'm changing the dynamics of my management. I'm gonna focus more on me, back again as a producer. It's gonna be a squad. It's gonna be me leadin' the way, but I'm gonna get some talented producers and other musicians with me - this mega-production crew. It's sort of like what The Hitmen was. It's not a Neptunes; it's not two guys. It's gonna be a squad." The crew has yet to confirm a name or specific members, besides the aforementioned Ky Miller.
For Sha, a producer who entered Hip Hop producing for Cormega, Proof and Juvenile, he says he's eager to get back to his craft. "I've got some collections of records that I just dug out. I've got so much shit I've been overlookin' and not getting into because I've been doing business. Now I've been on my Reason, my Recycle, I'm back, my boy Ky Miller is kickin' ass. I watched him from makin' his first beat from scratch till now. He did that first Rick Ross diss record ["Officer Ricky (Go Head, Try Me)]" that's out now, and a whole bunch of other joints. I really want to get back to it. You're gonna see a dynamic change. I'm really about getting back to what brought me into this industry, which was making music."
He eagerly touted, "I'm comin' back. You know me, I'm B-boy. So I'm comin' back with some samples, some live instruments, and my drums is gonna be killer! I'ma do a drum CD too. No wack joints. I'm comin' wid' it!"
hiphopdx.com
Def Jam Names Chris Hicks As VP Of Def Jam
Christopher Hicks has been named the new Executive Vice President of Def Jam Recordings it was announced earlier today (February 17), by Antonio "L.A." Reid, Chairman of Island Def Jam Music Group.
As Executive Vice President, Hicks will be responsible for the acquisition and development of new talent, overseeing producers and guiding the creative vision and brand of the label.
Reporting directly to L.A. Reid and Steve Bartels, President & COO of Island Def Jam Music Group, Hicks will be based out of New York and Atlanta, like his predecessor, Shakir Stewart.
"Chris has a musician's ear for talent and hit songs that has brought him huge long-term success in the industry," said Mr. Reid. "His track record in Atlanta has resulted in breaking some of the biggest names in Urban and hip-hop out of that city over the past decade. We look forward to the next quarter-century of history with Def Jam as we welcome Chris aboard."
Hicks' previously held the Senior Vice President of Urban A&R at Atlantic Records and Senior Vice President, A&R and Head of Urban Music for Warner/Chappell Music positions.
Prior to his joint positions, Hicks was Vice President of Urban A&R of Warner/Chappell since 2004 where he significant role in publishing agreements with Lil' Wayne, T.I. and other artists.
Hicks was also involved in re-signing Dr. Dre in 2005 as well as acquiring Timbaland's catalog in 2006.
Hicks replaces Shakir Stewart who was found dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in his apartment early November of 2008.
allhiphop.com
Rapper Big L Remembered 10 Years Later
By Ismael AbduSalaam
It has been 10 years since the tragic loss of Harlem's "Big L," but the revered wordsmith 's legacy continues to live on.
Born Lamont Coleman in 1974, L began writing rhymes at the age of 16 in 1990.
“Lamont was a funny little boy, a jealous little boy. ‘Come on mama, let’s race.’ When I’d win, he’d get mad. One Christmas I bought [Lamont and his brothers] turntables and a mixer. [Lamont] would be the MC. Leroy would be the DJ,” Big L’s mother Gilda Terry told AllHipHop.com in a previous interview. “Donald would be the dancer. I’d laugh at them. It was the worst thing I could’ve done. It made so much noise. That’s how he got into music and stuff. He really, really was into it. After a while, the newness of that went. But Lamont stayed right with it. He just loved it. He was a good kid. He always had a mind of his own. When he set his mind to do something, he just did it.”
Even though he was still cultivating his craft as a teenager, his natural talent drew the attention from members of the famed collective Diggin' In the Crates (DITC).
Lord Finesse then placed the young emcee on the 1992 song "Party Over Here."
Later in that year, L went on to further build his name on critically acclaimed LPs from Diamond D (Stunts, Blunts, and Hip-Hop) and Showbiz and A.G. (Runaway Slave).
In 1993, L signed with Columbia Records and created a minor buzz courtesy of the blasphemous single "Devil's Son."
He released his embryonic debut Lifestylez ov da Poor and Dangerous in 1995.
The project featured appearances from then largely unknown future stars Jay-Z and Cam'ron.
Despite mostly positive reviews and buzz around his native New York through the Lord Finesse produced single "M.V.P.," the album did not receive the promotion and attention of his contemporaries like the Notorious B.I.G., Wu Tang Clan, Nas, and others.
After being dropped, L sought out fellow Harlem emcees Mase, Cam'ron, McGruff, and Bloodshed to form Children of the Corn.
Although the group recorded over 30 songs while shopping for a record deal with producer Digga, the collective rapidly fell apart after the death of Bloodshed in a car accident.
Starting in 1997, L began working on what would be become his final album, The Big Picture.
Through his very own label Flamboyant Records, Big L scored an underground hit in the summer of 1998 courtesy of the single "Ebonics (Criminal Slang)."
L would follow up his momentum with other underground favorites such as "Size 'Em Up" and "Flamboyant."
The innovative lead single caught the ear of former collaborator Jay-Z, who was in the process of finalizing terms to bring L to Roc-A-Fella before tragedy struck in February 1999.
At the age of 24, Big L was shot repeatedly in the head and chest on February 15, shortly after leaving his home in Harlem.
The brutal slaying yielded an early arrest of a childhood friend, but the suspect was subsequently released due to lack of evidence.
The murder remains unsolved, and speculation has ranged from the execution being a case of mistaken identity to retaliation against L's brother Big Lee, a street figure who was in prison at the time.
Lee was also murdered shortly after his release from prison.
Big L's final album The Big Picture was released in August 2000 via Rawkus Records.
L's tragic death and the reverence bestowed on him from various Hip-Hop stars helped push the project well past gold at over 600,000 copies sold.
Today, Big L remains well respected in Hip-Hop culture, and a shining albeit somber example of unfulfilled potential.
This year, Lamont "Big L" Colman would have celebrated his 35th birthday.
“He loved the neighborhood,” Mrs. Terry said. “He loved 139th Street. I loved 139th Street until he got killed, because before that, it was a close-knit block.”
allhiphop.com
DJ Quik, Snoop and Teddy Riley Form Production Unit
Seeking to expand pool their talents together for the entire industry, West Coast producer/emcee DJ Quik has united with fellow veterans Snoop Dogg and Teddy Riley to create a super production team.
With records labels becoming reticent about spending money, Quik explains that many promising artists are struggling to get their music heard.
"Snoop started this company called QDT (Quik-Dogg-Teddy). We produce records and write songs for other cats that don't have access to great producers or songwriters," Quik told AllHipHop.com. "We are trying to be a medium between them and the record company. Teddy has been writing for the Pussycat Dolls and other people at Interscope. Snoop has been writing for his groups, and I've been storing tracks for them when it's time to go full-fledged with it."
Even with a strong team beside him, Quik is still focused on developing his own acts.
First up for the Compton native is The O Boyz, a full-fledged band out of Oakland.
"My band, The O Boyz. They come from Oakland, California. They are really talented kids that really get it in," Quik revealed to AllHipHop.com. "The drummer is Q, the keyboardist is Lynette, the guitarist is Greg, and the bass player is Marcus. These guys really love music. They are young but they were born into music so it's real easy for them to play whatever we do."
Although he will continue working extensively with labels via QDT and his own Universal imprint, Quik would rather have his new group retain some independence from him.
"I am actually going to get them their own deal. Signing somebody is not always the best option," Quik admitted "People go around saying, 'I signed so and so' and then they go and get a release because nothing happens. I am going to keep the group free but they know that my loyalties lie with them. I am going to do what is best for them, even if that means letting them sign with somebody else."
At press time, an official QDT announcement on their first project is pending.
allhiphop.com
Veteran Music Exec Julie Greenwald Named COO Of Atlantic Records Group
Veteran music executive Julie Greenwald was named Chairman and Chief Operating Officer of The Atlantic Records Group.
Greenwald, who was President, will run Atlantic's group of labels with CEO Craig Kallman, who will continue to oversee the labels operations as well.
Under the pair's watch, Atlantic has become the No. 1 label in the United States, based on hit records by T.I., Kid Rock, Plies, Lupe Fiasco and Jason Mraz.
Additionally, Kallman and Greenwald helped Atlantic Records to become the first major label to achieve more than 50% of U.S. recorded music sales from digital products.
Greenwald launched her career in 1992 with Def Jam Records in 1992, where she developed marketing strategies for rappers like Jay-Z, DMX, LL Cool J and others.
In 2002, Greenwald was named President of Island Records and promoted to Executive Vice President of Island Def Jam.
In 2004, she left Island Def Jam alongside Island Def Jam executives Kevin Liles and Lyor Cohen, now the Vice Chairman of Warner Music Group.
"Five years ago I tasked Craig and Julie with the challenge of completely reshaping Atlantic into a music company built for the digital age," Cohen said in a statement. "Not only did they rise to the occasion, but in just a few years Atlantic achieved a level of success it had not seen in decades. Most importantly, throughout the rebuilding process, they never lost sight of our core mission: signing and developing magnificent artists. With Craig's brilliant A&R vision and tireless entrepreneurial spirit and Julie's thoughtful, cutting-edge approach to artist development, we are fortunate to have one of the preeminent executive teams in today's music business. I congratulate Julie on this much-deserved promotion."
At Atlantic, Greenwald has worked with a number of top-selling acts, including Rob Thomas, James Blunt, Diddy, Death Cab for Cutie, Gnarls Barkley, Missy Elliott, Flo Rida, Estelle and others.
"I'm really proud of the company Craig and I have built," Greenwald stated. "I'm inspired every day to be working alongside the most dedicated staff and to have such a rich and diverse roster of talented artists. I'm confident we will continue to flourish within the house that Ahmet [Ertegun] built."
allhiphop.com
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Saigon And Statik Selektah Finish 24-Hour Album
Anyone questioning Saigon’s work ethic in 2008 should take note of his 2009 grind. After trading diss records with one of Hip Hop’s most honorable battle rappers in Joe Budden, and stating Warning Shots 2 is coming soon, Saigiddy fans’ expectations for The Greatest Story Never Told are sky high. However, as if that wasn’t enough, “The Yardfather” has reportedly created another full project with beatsmith Statik Selektah.
In a recent YouTube clip, the two Hip Hop phenoms discussed their newly finished album together, which was made in just one day. “Twenty four hours my nigga, me and Statik Selektah made this album in one day… No money, no nothing, just niggas that love Hip Hop,” Saigon explained.
Confessing that a few verses have been used before, Saigon made it clear that the majority of his material is completely new, adding, “This is 95 percent original shit. You might have heard one or two verses before from a freestyle or something. Other than that, it’s brand new.”
According to Statik Selektah, the title of the album is All In A Days Work, and it will be available soon through the Internet.
hiphopdx.com
?uestlove Talks D’Angelo Project, 11th Roots Album
While The Roots can now count on their new gig as Jimmy Fallon’s house band [click to read] to pay the bills, their love for music is still as strong as ever. In a recent interview with weeklydig.com, ?uestlove touched on his work with D’Angelo, as well as the next Roots project.
What was once seen as a shelved project, D’Angelo has plans to release his follow-up to 2000’s Voodoo this year. ?uest, who has worked side by side with the R&B singer on several past projects, will also make his mark on D’Angelo’s new disc.
“The last I touched this record was in 2004, and that was when he was going all the way rock," ?uestlove said. “However, I am to believe at least in our conversations that he did 100 percent just actually a clean slate...I'm one of the last elements to be added. Which basically means he's at least more than halfway done, which in D'Angelo speak is a miracle.”
Settling down for “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon,” The Roots will still do one-off gigs on the weekends to keep their live performances fresh. Not only that, but they are reportedly already getting material together for their next album.
“We started our 11th [album], I'll say three weeks ago, before we came over [to South Korea],” ?uestlove explained. Continuing, he added, “I assume that all our studio activity will triple now that we are in one steady place. Not to mention, we actually convinced [NBC] to build us a studio in the dressing room.”
hiphopdx.com
J Dilla Remembered 3 Years Later
Three years ago today (February 10), Hip-Hop culture lost one of its most innovative and influential producers in Detroit's James Dewitt Yancey, AKA J Dilla.
Blessed with strong musical genes from an opera singer mother and jazz bassist father, Dilla started collecting vinyl at the tender age of 2.
The aspiring producer made a strong name for himself in Detroit early 90s Hip-Hop scene.
He formed fledgling groups with Phat Kat (1st Down) and the late Proof (5 Elementz) before settling with classmates T3 and Baatin in Slum Village.
With SV, Dilla would make his biggest musical impact courtesy of the critically acclaimed albums Fan-Tas-Tic (Vol. 1) and Fantastic, Vol. 2.
Dilla's work attracted the attention of A Tribe Called Quest, who recruited the talented broadsmith to be a member of their Ummah (Q-Tip, Ali Shaheed Muhammad, Dilla) production team.
With the legendary group, Dilla crafted several gems off Tribe's platinum fourth album Beats, Rhymes, and Life: "Get a Hold," "1nce Again," "Keep It Movin'," "Word Play," and "Stressed Out."
In addition, Dilla created numerous classic singles for other artists, such as De La Soul ("Stakes Is High"), The Pharcyde ("Drop," "Runnin'"), Q-Tip ("Vivrant Thing," "Breathe and Stop"), Janet Jackson ("Got 'Til It's Gone"), Common ("The Light"), and Erykah Badu ("Didn't Cha Know," "Cleva").
Towards the end of his career, Dilla began to focus more on developing his emcee skills along with forming partnerships with up and coming artists and producers.
In 2003, he collaborated with Madlib for the well received Champion Sound project.
Starting in 2004, Dilla was officially diagnosed with lupus and TTP, a rare and incurable blood disorder.
The disease greatly restricted Dilla's ability to tour and also resulted in a marked weight loss.
Sensing the end was near; Dilla immersed himself in his work, and successfully completed his celebrated final project, Donuts in 2006.
The album was released on February 7, just 3 days before Dilla's death at the age of 32 from cardiac arrest.
Due to the outpouring of anguish from respected members of the Hip-Hop community, many curious fans sought out Dilla's discography for the first time.
In the 3 years since his passing, Dilla's legacy has grown exponentially, with many artists still referencing him in lyrics or outright using his prodigious back catalogue of beats for their work.
Dilla's memory also stays alive with the J Dilla Foundation, which aims to find a cure for lupus.
J Dilla leaves behind two daughters, and younger brother Illa J, who just released his debut album Yancey Boys last November.
allhiphop.com
Q-Tip, J. Period Drop Free Mixtape 'The [Abstract] Best'
Rapper/producer and former Tribe Called Quest front man Q-Tip is celebrated on a new mixtape produced in collaboration with DJ Period.
Titled The [Abstract] Best, J. Period's latest mixtape is a combination of tracks from Q-Tip's deep catalog, as well as remixes, interviews and new tracks from a list of popular MC's, who pay homage to the Queens, New York rap star.
Busta Rhymes, De La Soul, Skillz, Talib Kweli, Prince Paul, Consequence, Pharoahe Monch, Black Thought, ?uestlove, Black Sheep, Kid Cudi, Blu and others are among the list of rappers featured on the mixtape, which was made available for free download today (February 10).
“I greatly appreciate the time and dedication J.Period has put into this mixtape,” Q-Tip said of the collaboration. “He has pulled together an amazing group of contributing artists, and I am honored that my music has been inspirational to all of them. The feeling is mutual.”
The [Abstract] Best is the follow up to the track "Q-Tip for President," which their pair released in November in celebration of President Barack Obama.
The track went on to receive over 100,000 downloads, prompting another collaboration between Q-Tip and J. Period.
“Q-Tip has inspired a generation of Hip-Hop artists and fans, and I am no exception," J.Period said of the collaboration. “In an era of short attention spans, there is a reason why Q-Tip’s legacy has survived so long: like any great artist, his music has substance. I hope this tape shows why his name should be mentioned among Hip-Hop’s all-time greats."
Additionally, fans who purchase a limited edition Abstract Best T-Shirt designed by Fuse Green, will receive a free copy of The [Abstract] Best Vol. 2.
Both versions of the mixtape, as well as outtakes and exclusive interviews, are available for free with the purchase of J.Period’s latest line of 1gB Flash Drives engraved with the phrase "Mixtapes Are Not A Crime."
Q-Tip's latest solo album The Renaissance is in stores now.
allhiphop.com
Snoop Dogg Finished With Geffen/Interscope
Snoop Dogg has confirmed with AllHipHop.com that he will no longer record with Interscope, his label home for over 10 years.
The split comes nearly one year after the release of Snoop's ninth studio album, Ego Trippin'.
Lead by the crossover, 80s inspired ballad "Sexual Eruption," the LP debuted at #3 on Billboard's Top 200, but fell short of gold certification.
While the West Coast veteran declined to give specific details on the reason for the sudden split, Snoop verified there will not be any final albums with Interscope.
"We are pushing the envelope on getting everything finalized," Snoop told AllHipHop.com exclusively. "But I will not be releasing anymore projects under Interscope/Geffen."
In his first tenure with Interscope under Death Row Records, Snoop released his classic, 4X platinum debut Doggystyle (1993), the platinum Murder Was the Case soundtrack (1994), and the double platinum sophomore solo Tha Doggfather (1996).
After moving to Master P's No Limit Records for 3 albums from 1998-2000, and briefly to Capitol/EMI in 2002, Snoop returned to Interscope via the Geffen imprint with 2004's well-received, platinum album R&G (Rhythm & Gangsta): The Masterpiece, 2006's The Blue Carpet Treatment (gold), and finally 2008's Ego Trippin'.
To date, Snoop Dogg is estimated to have sold over 15 million records worldwide during his tenure with Interscope.
At press time, Snoop has declined on divulge his next possible label home.
allhipohp.com
Big Pun Remembered, New Documentary on the Way
Today (February 7) marks the 9 year anniversary of the sudden and premature passing of Christopher Rios, better known to the world as Big Pun.
After enduring a rough childhood growing up in the Bronx, Pun sought refuge in rhyming to deal with his mother's drug addiction and an abusive step father.
By the late 80s, he had met lifelong friends Cuban Link, Triple Seis, and Prospect. Together, they formed a music click coined the Full a Clips Crew.
During this time, Pun would be known to fellow local emcees by his first stage name, Big Moon Dawg. Years of work paid off in 1995 when Pun met fellow Bronx rapper Fat Joe.
Impressed to find such a raw talent in his own borough, Joe featured Pun extensively on what many consider his best LP, Jealous One's Envy.
After building a strong buzz with underground hits such as "You Ain't a Killer," Pun dropped his seminal 1998 debut Capital Punishment.
Celebrated for its varied displays of lyricism, flows ("The Dream Shatterer," "Beware") and powered by the hit single "Still Not a Player," the album became the first platinum album ever from a Latino emcee.
Also, the LP scored a Grammy nomination for 1998's Hip-Hop Album of the Year.
Pun's stardom was short-lived, as the Bronx native could not gain control over his weight issues, even after ballooning to over 500 pounds and several attempted interventions from family and friends.
On February 7, 2000, Pun succumbed to a fatal heart attack at the age of 28.
Since his death, two posthumous albums (Yeeeah Baby, Endangered Species) and a controversial documentary (Still Not a Player) from his widow Liza Rios have been released.
Sometime this year, Pun's life will receive further examination with a new documentary entitled Big Pun: The Legacy.
The tribute project was originally announced last summer, but was delayed over post-production and distribution issues.
The film is reported to contain never before seen interviews and performances from Pun.
Additionally, the documentary features reflections from industry colleagues who Pun inspired personally or through his music, such as the Wu-Tang Clan, DMX, Snoop Dogg, Chuck D, Rosie Perez, Mobb Deep, and Cypress Hill.
At press time, a release date has not been set for the film. This year, Big Pun would have celebrated his 38th birthday.
allhiphop.com
Foxy Brown Gives 50 Cent 24 Hours To Retract Rap Line
The G-Unit leader has drug in rapper Foxy Brown's name into this beef by mentioned her name in the ballooning war of words with Miami heavy weight Rick Ross.
Foxy Brown says she is granting 50 Cent 24 hours to retract the line where she is briefly mentioned on "Try Me."
On 50 Cent's diss track, he says, "The cop f**ked a fox." The line, although scant, refers to a brief, personal relationship Rick Ross and Brown had. It also refers to Ross' past as a correctional officer.
Foxy Brown's camp issued a statement that proclaims that she has no involvement in the conflict between the two rap titans.
In a statement to AllHipHop.com, Brown's representative stated, "Foxy is giving that n***a 24 hour [period] to retract that statement or she's going handle [him] Brooklyn Style."
Ironically, after 50 Cent wrote the initial song, Rick Ross gave 50 Cent 48 hours to offer a more substantial response. 50 Cent returned with a number of insulting videos, including cartoons and a taped shopping spree with the mother of Ross' child.
Currently, Brown is working on her new album Black Roses, which is expected to be in stores this summer.
Rumors swirled that Foxy Brown and Rick Ross were to be married, but those proved to be false.
allhiphop.com
Raider and Yukmouth's Smoke-A-Thon Banned from Hip-Hop Sites
A viral marijuana smoking contest featuring Yukmouth and Raider's running back Justin Fargas has been shut down across the web.
The clip showcases Yukmouth and Fargas at an undisclosed home explaining the rules for this weekend's "Smoke-A-Thon" contest, which is scheduled to primarily showcase rappers competing against each other.
Although Fargas was not shown smoking marijuana or handling any drug paraphernalia, the Raider could still face disciplinary action from the NFL.
According to the league's drug program, players can be fined or suspended even for "behavioral" or "psychological signs" of drug violations.
Possibly anticipating this, Yukmouth made a point to declare during the video that Fargas does not smoke marijuana.
Justin Fargas, the son of Huggy Bear ("Starsky and Hutch") actor Antonio Fargas, has been with the Raiders since 2003.
For the last 3 years, the California native has also been the team's leading rusher.
Yukmouth, who is also the CEO of the Rap-A-Lot distributed Smoke-A-Lot Records, is preparing this month to release his fifth studio album, The West Coast Don.
The album is set to host guest appearances from T-Pain, Ray J, Mistah F.A.B., Dru Drown and C-Bo.
To date, the NFL is declining to speak on the matter, and will not elaborate on if they took any action to have the video removed.
At press time, Justin Fargas could not be reached for comment.
allhiphop.com
Rick Ross/50 Beef Continues; Baby's Mom Criminal Past Revealed
The beef between rappers 50 Cent and Rick Ross has taken another turn, as the mother of Ross’ 2-year-old son has now come under a microscope.
Documents hit the Internet last night pertaining to Tia Kemp's rap sheet, in an apparent attempt to undermine her credibility.
According to Broward County Courthouse records, Tia Kemp was involved in a felony case two years ago.
She was charged with one count of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, two counts of battery and three counts of child neglect/delinquency for the unnamed incident, which took place in April 2007.
Prior to the 2007 case, Kemp was in court for another felony case in 1997.
Miami-Dade County court records show the single mother received felonies for witness tampering and threats. The discovery of Kemp’s criminal record is the latest development in the ongoing war of words between Ross and 50 Cent.
The Miami-based rapper ignited talk of a dislike for 50, after he criticized 50's legal drama with the mother of his son, Shaniqua Tomkins, on the song “Mafia Music.”
A response from 50 soon followed with “Officer Ricky (Go ‘Head, Try Me),” an attack on Ross’ previous employment as a corrections officer.
Days later, Ross alluded to the cause of the beef on Angela Yee’s Lip Service show on Shade45 XM/Sirius satellite radio show, while challenging 50 to come up with a better response in two day’s time.
The G-Unit leader obliged with an official declaration of war, a cartoon lampooning Ross and a video that featured Kemp denouncing Ross’ street image and verifying his stint as a corrections officer.
In addition, 50 Cent insults Ross in the video and refers to his mother as “the Nutty Professor,” while taking Kemp on a shopping spree.
The clip, which debuted last week on 50's website, thisis50.com, has garnered talk among rap fans and furthered fueled the ongoing beef.
Meanwhile, a new video for Rick Ross' single "Gang Related" hit the Internet, featuring Ross pouring out bottles of Vitaminwater.
Like 50, Ross has utilized the small screen as a vehicle with his recently released music video for "Mafia Music."
Both rappers have voiced their views on each other on various radio shows around the country.
Fans will decide who has the better album as 50 Cent’s Before I Self-Destruct arrives in stores in March. Ross’ Deeper than Rap will follow his rival’s opus with an April release.
allhiphop.com
Baltimore's DJ Class, Unruly Productions Ink Deal With Universal Republic
Famed Baltimore club music pioneer DJ Class is taking steps to further expand the reach of his hometown’s sound by aligning with Universal Republic.
The signing, which was announced by Unruly Productions and Universal Republic, marks yet another accomplishment for Class, who is currently enjoying the success of his latest single, “I’m the Ish.”
The song, which spawned a remix featuring Crunk music legend Lil Jon, is taken from the producer’s forthcoming album Alameda & ColdSpring.
For Unruly co-owner Shawn Caesar, the Universal Republic alliance is nothing short of an asset that can only enhance the status of Unruly Productions and Class.
"We are very excited to have Universal Republic get on board with us and share the same vision as we do,” Caesar told AllHipHop.com in a statement. “DJ Class has been part of the Unruly family since our very beginning, and together we have created a huge buzz with "I'm The Ish."
A fixture on the Baltimore music scene, DJ Class is regarded as one of the founding members of the Baltimore break beat and drum & bass sound.
He is best known for producing club anthems such as "Tear the Club Up", "Stop Snitching" and "What's up Baby" as well as co-producing the "It takes two" remix by DJ Kool/Fat Man Scoop.
According to Class, the release of his album Alameda & ColdSpring represents the next wave in music, as well as the beginning of a worthwhile alliance with his new recording home.
"The opportunity for Unruly and myself to be a part of Universal Republic is amazing,” DJ Class stated. “I see this as long overdue for myself as an artist and club music as a genre. This union will make history."*
Unruly’s other owner Scottie B. acknowledged the creative freedom and opportunity that Universal Republic has extended to his label.
"Both Avery and Monte Lipman at Universal Republic have allowed us to expand that vision to a wider audience while allowing Class to keep his creative integrity,” Scottie B. said. “We couldn't be happier and with this situation, and also are looking forward to working with the UMGD team. This is just the beginning."
allhiphop.com
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
CYRUS DA VIRUS
CYRUS DA VIRUS
MySpace to Yo' Space
Check out Cyrus Da Virus' interview on
February 10, 2009 with
HIP HOP CONNECTION MAGAZINE
Cyrus Da Virus
talks about his new hit single
"MYSPACE"
“Rapresent” can be heard now on the BC page, myspace.com/beatcartel
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Is this the end for rap magazines?
Word on the street is that every major hip-hop magazine is either going out of business in the short run, or involved in some sort of editorial scandal. Let’s talk about the ones that won’t cause me to have to craft an apology email.
The other day, Gawker received an anonymous tip from someone at Vibe (was that you, Hurricane?) that the atmosphere in the offices there has been incredibly tense as of late, due to the fact that there’s no longer a business case for Vibe magazine.
Supposedly, the only managed to sell three ads for their March issue: 1) some sort of afro sheen product, the likes of which you might see advertised in Jet magazine, right across from the cellulite-laden Beauty of the Week; 2) the US Army, which of course carries with it its own set of sad ethical concerns - to think, some poor kid’s probably gonna have his head blown off, because no one’s buying ads for rap albums anymore; and 3) scammy ringtone site, Jamster - one of these businesses that’s built on trying to get impressionable children to give away their parents’ credit card information.
If this is true, and it seems a bit too specific to be made up, it makes you wonder what kind of L the TIs at Vibe took to print next month’s issue, and how much longer they’re willing to put up with that sort of thing. There were already rumblings that the March issue might not even happen, but then, the same day word leaked of Vibe’s financial difficulties, a statement was released that Vibe wasn’t having any problems printing their March issue. In fact, they managed to get Keyshia Cole. (Take that, Rolling Stone!) In fact, there should be another press release in the next few weeks announcing new hires and promotions.
But if you notice, they didn’t say anything about Vibe not having any financial difficulties. Also, while it mentioned that they might be hiring and promoting some people, it didn’t say whether or not they plan on canning anyone. They might be dropping some of the people who already work there and replacing them with relative no-talents who are willing to work for less money. Overall, I took the statement to mean that they’re gonna try to ride this out until they can dupe someone into taking Vibe off their hands. But in the meantime, they can’t have people thinking that they make less money from ads each month than some blogs.
Hopefully, whoever does end up helping Vibe’s owners cut their losses isn’t capable of using a search engine. Best case scenario, maybe they’ll luck out and find someone who isn’t as interested in turning a profit. These kleptocrats have been known to purchase once proud media institutions, if only for the personal satisfaction that comes from owning your own magazine, newspaper, etc. Which I’m sure is roughly tantamount to having sex with your spouse’s baby’s mother. For example, Rupert Murdoch recently bought the Wall Street Journal, after it had already been clear for some time now that newspapers are a thing of the past. And I’ve heard rumors that this guy Carlos Slim, the world’s richest Mexican - wealthier, in fact, that anyone here in the US (the fuck?) - might cop the New York Times.
Seriously, I don’t know if there’s a bigger L New York could take than having a Mexican own the New York Times. No offense to any Mexicans who might be reading this. I’m just saying. 9/11 was one thing, but this would be something else entirely.
But I digress.
I wonder if that’s the situation over at the Source. I know they’ve got this guy, L. Londell McMillan, who presents himself as their new owner, but I haven’t done enough research into that situation to know whether or not he’s actually just the black front for a group of TIs. Given the fact that he’s supposedly this high powered entertainment lawyer, it doesn’t seem inconceivable that he could be the actual owner, and that he might want to continue publishing the Source, regardless of whether or not there’s a business case for it, for vanity purposes, and also, perhaps, shillery. But given what we know about people in positions of power in hip-hop, I wouldn’t be surprised if he isn’t.
Anyway, I don’t know if everyone caught the story this week about how the Source called Hell Rell and offered him a writeup in the magazine and on the website for $1,000. He complained about it in an interview somewhere, then come to find out what he was really offered - by some unnamed intern - was an ad in some shit called The Source Independent Hip-Hop Network. But I wouldn’t be surprised if it was presented to him more along the lines of, “Dude, if you give us $1,000, we’ll totally get you in the Source,” a la what they supposedly do down at Ozone. Anyway, I guess someone from the Source got at Hell Rell and forced him to issue a statement that the feature he was offered was definitely an ad and not part of the actual editorial. Weak!
I guess it does at least show that they’re concerned about their image. Could it be that they’re actually in this for the long haul? With the alleged business problems at some of these other magazines, they could be in a position to benefit, provided their expectations are low enough.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
News: Saigon Says Joe Budden Pulled Back From Rap Battle, "He Starts Waving Flags"
The self-proclaimed "Yard Father" claims Budden reached out first to stop the battle.
"He's fake...he called my phone...not when people thought he called me, he called me after that," Sai said in an interview. "And then he goes and does interviews like dunna, dunna, dunna...I thought he was cool, too...and then he calls my phone after the fact. First he goes and tells people we had a phone call, then he goes afterwards and starts waving flags..." (Vlad TV)
Budden previously justified his absent response to Sai's "Pushing Buddens" as an indication that a conversation had taken place.
"If me and dude are engaged in a f*cking lyrical battle here and all of a sudden I just stop out of the clear blue sky, there's really no other reason for it besides there was a phone call that took place," Budden said in an interview. "It didn't start out well but we had a good conversation. He begged me to stop. He begged me to leave him alone." (Hip Hop Game)
Prior to Joey's statement, producer Just Blaze wrote on his twitter account last month claiming both rappers deaded the battle via a phone coversation, however Sai denied the occurence.
"I don't know where that came from," Saigon said. "For a while you know Just been trying to squash that sh*t cause he understands what it can turn in to. He just doesn't wanna see it go past -you know just being around me and a lot of my people - and he doesn't wanna see it go anywhere other than wax. And he knows that's very, very, very likely gonna happen." (XXL)
sohh.com
Lupe Fiasco Abandons Final Album, Preps The "Great American Rap Album"
Lupe Fiasco recently announced that his upcoming project LupE.N.D. would not be released.
"Breaking News... Listen Up This Affects You!!! Due to circumstances beyond my control...the album roll out has changed radically. LUPE.N.D. has been postponed indefinitely!!! As a matter of fact consider it cancelled until further notice!!! OK..so what now??? Actually an album is still coming in June...Thats Right!!!...Drum Roll Please... "THE GREAT AMERICAN RAP ALBUM" Yeah thats the new title..." (Lupe Fiasco's Blog)
Lupe is also planning to release a debut album from his rock group, Japanese Cartoon.
The Grammy-nominated rapper has also been masquerading as Percival Fats, the lead singer for Japanese Cartoon. He wrote that Japanese Cartoon's debut album, In the Jaws of the Lords of Death, will be released on the same day in June as his next LP, The Great American Rap Album. (MTV Newsroom)
During a concert last fall, the Chicago emcee broke the news that his final album would be a trilogy.
"My next album will be my last album ladies and gentlemen. But... things aren't always what they seem ladies and gentlemen. The name of the next album is LupE.N.D. so if you pay attention it's not one album. It's three. What do you say about a triple CD on the next one. I love it too much just to go out with one. We'll call the first one out of the three Everywhere. N, we'll call that one Nowhere. And then the last one D, we'll call that one Down Here." (Youtube)
It was recently announced that Lupe Fiasco will play the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival in April.
Fans of Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival finally got the news they were waiting for when the lineup for the 10th annual three-day event was announced Friday morning. Among the dozens of other performers at the festival are: TV on the Radio, drum-and-DJ duo Travis Barker and DJ AM, Lupe Fiasco, Public Enemy and more. (Freep)
sohh.com
Jay-Z & Kanye West's "Ghost" Writer Named Epic Records President
Amanda Ghost, the British songwriter who has worked with Jay-Z, Kanye West and Beyonce, has been appointed president of Epic Records.
The artist-turned-executive will take office later this month.
Rob Stringer, Chairman Columbia/Epic Label Group, named Ghost the president of Epic on Monday (February 2). Ms. Ghost will join the company effective February 16, 2009 and be responsible for overseeing the overall management and creative direction of Epic Records. (Press Release)
The move represents a trend in placing artists in positions traditionally held by label executives.
"I am delighted that Amanda has chosen to bring her creative vision and flair to the Epic label," Stringer said. "In the changing environment of the music business, record labels undoubtedly need to be complete partners with the artistic community, and Amanda will be the perfect executive to meet that challenge." (Billboard)
Ghost has worked with various platinum-selling artists.
Ms. Ghost's most recent acclaim has come as a Grammy-nominated songwriter, working with artists such as Beyonce, James Blunt, Jordin Sparks, Kanye West, Shakira, Jay Z and many others. She has recently been nominated alongside Beyoncé for a Golden Globe for the song "Once in a Lifetime" the theme song for Cadillac Records. (Earth Times)
She also signed an exclusive worldwide publishing agreement with EMI last year.
EMI Music Publishing has signed an exclusive publishing agreement with hit singer, songwriter and producer Amanda Ghost. The long-term deal will see Ghost join EMI Music Publishing's unrivalled roster of current songwriters, which also includes Alicia Keys, Arctic Monkeys, Natasha Bedingfield, The Feeling, Jay-Z, My Chemical Romance, Take That, Kanye West and Amy Winehouse. (EMI Group)
sohh.com
Doo Wop Responds To Diddy's Deejay Accusations
Author: Benjamin Chesna
Following Diddy’s recent outrage regarding the connection between the state of Hip Hop and the unoriginality of deejays, veteran mixtape pioneer, DJ Doo Wop [click to read] explained in a statement sent to HipHopDX that he believes Diddy’s analysis to be a bit hypocritical.
Speaking directly to Diddy, the longtime New York deejay said Diddy’s power allows him to tremendously influence the deejay game.
Doo Wop said, “Are these deejays [you're] referring to the same and very well selected deejays that influential people such as yourself personally empower to spin your 'new single' first, while the so called ‘deejays with style’ gets it last and probably from a radio rip where YOUR DJ OF CHOICE already played it?”
Responding to Diddy’s profession that “Deejays don’t expose you to newness,” Doo Wop responded by asking, “When's the last time you used that undeniable Diddy influence to help (as you say), a ‘deejay with style’ get a radio spot since you're so disappointed at the state of the radio game?”
Diddy expressed that he is a fan of Q-Tip’s creativity, but Doo Wop believes Diddy does not act on his beliefs. “If Q-Tip is who you're hiring nowadays to rock your parties, then I commend you because he does think out the box when it comes to the one and two's. But if I recall correctly, not too long ago the only deejays you would allow to spin at your extravagant star studded celebrity affairs were the same exact ones you're now blaming for the state of the deejay game,” the veteran DJ said.
DJ Doo Wop has worked with acts from Nas and Kool G Rap to Jay-Z and Busta Rhymes. In closing, the letter, Doo Wop signed the piece “DJ with Style” referencing Diddy’s belief that today’s record spinners has no style.
In 2007, a fellow mid-'90s star, Hakim Green [click to read] of Channel Live, told HipHopDX, that he believed Diddy had a hand in Hip Hop's present ruins. "As much as I have to congratulate him in terms of his business mind and his marketing genius – he does have an ear for music, but you have to say, he fucked the game up. He fucked it up. He got Hot 97 in a choke-hold, all these corporations, and he said, “This is what Hip Hop looks, smells, tastes and feels like.” And it was Hip Hop ‘cause Puffy said so. But Puffy’s not Hip Hop, Puffy’s R&B, so chill. What’s going on in the street is not what’s going on on TV."
Previously, Doo Wop spoke out with Lil Wayne's Foundation Magazine diatribe against deejays.
hiphopdx.com
