Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Tech N9ne Announces 2010 Strange Days Tour
by Jake Paine
Strange Music is off to a busy 2010. The Kansas City, Missouri-based imprint released Brotha Lynch Hung's Dinner and a Movie last week. Today, the label will release Tech N9ne's Lost Scripts of K.O.D.
As other projects ready, the label's annual tour dates were announced, pairing the usual Strange suspects, including DXnext alum Krizz Kaliko, along with the Sacramento veteran emcee, Lynch.
The dates are below:
5/12 Sokol Auditorium Omaha, NE
5/13 Val Air Ballroom Des Moines, IA
5/14 Epic Event Center Minneapolis, MN
5/15 The Venue at The Hub Fargo, ND
5/16 Ramkpta Exhibit Hall Sioux Falls, SD
5/17 Casper Events Center Casper, WY
5/18 Shrine Auditorium Billings, MT
5/19 Wilma Theatre Missoula, MT
5/20 The Knitting Factory Spokane, WA
5/21 Yakima Valley Sundome Yakima Valley, WA
5/22-23 Showbox Sodo Seattle, WA
5/24 Roseland Theatre Portland, OR
5/25 Midtown Ballroom Bend, OR
5/26 Knitting Factory Boise, ID
5/28 Knitting Factory Reno, NV
5/29 The Catalyst Club Santa Cruz, CA
5/30 House of Blues Los Angeles, CA
5/31 House of Blues San Diego, CA
6/1 House of Blues Las Vegas, NV
6/2 Marquee Theatre Tempe, AZ
6/3 Rialto Theatre Tucson, AZ
6/4 Sunshine Theater Albuquerque, NM
6/5 Fillmore Denver, CO
6/6 The Cotillion Wichita, KS
6/8 Diamond Ballroom Oklahoma City, OK
6/9 Cain's Ballroom Tulsa, OK
6/10 Pop's Nightclub Sauget, IL
6/11 House of Blues Chicago, IL
6/12 Peabody's Cleveland, OH
6/13 The Palladium Worchester, MA
6/14 Knitting Factory Brooklyn, NY
6/15 Ram's Head Live Baltimore, MD
6/16 Chameleon Club Lancaster, PA
6/17 Blondies Detroit, MI
6/18 TBD Indianapolis, IN
6/19 Capitol Federal Park at Sandstone Bonner Springs, KS
hiphopdx.com
Strange Music is off to a busy 2010. The Kansas City, Missouri-based imprint released Brotha Lynch Hung's Dinner and a Movie last week. Today, the label will release Tech N9ne's Lost Scripts of K.O.D.
As other projects ready, the label's annual tour dates were announced, pairing the usual Strange suspects, including DXnext alum Krizz Kaliko, along with the Sacramento veteran emcee, Lynch.
The dates are below:
5/12 Sokol Auditorium Omaha, NE
5/13 Val Air Ballroom Des Moines, IA
5/14 Epic Event Center Minneapolis, MN
5/15 The Venue at The Hub Fargo, ND
5/16 Ramkpta Exhibit Hall Sioux Falls, SD
5/17 Casper Events Center Casper, WY
5/18 Shrine Auditorium Billings, MT
5/19 Wilma Theatre Missoula, MT
5/20 The Knitting Factory Spokane, WA
5/21 Yakima Valley Sundome Yakima Valley, WA
5/22-23 Showbox Sodo Seattle, WA
5/24 Roseland Theatre Portland, OR
5/25 Midtown Ballroom Bend, OR
5/26 Knitting Factory Boise, ID
5/28 Knitting Factory Reno, NV
5/29 The Catalyst Club Santa Cruz, CA
5/30 House of Blues Los Angeles, CA
5/31 House of Blues San Diego, CA
6/1 House of Blues Las Vegas, NV
6/2 Marquee Theatre Tempe, AZ
6/3 Rialto Theatre Tucson, AZ
6/4 Sunshine Theater Albuquerque, NM
6/5 Fillmore Denver, CO
6/6 The Cotillion Wichita, KS
6/8 Diamond Ballroom Oklahoma City, OK
6/9 Cain's Ballroom Tulsa, OK
6/10 Pop's Nightclub Sauget, IL
6/11 House of Blues Chicago, IL
6/12 Peabody's Cleveland, OH
6/13 The Palladium Worchester, MA
6/14 Knitting Factory Brooklyn, NY
6/15 Ram's Head Live Baltimore, MD
6/16 Chameleon Club Lancaster, PA
6/17 Blondies Detroit, MI
6/18 TBD Indianapolis, IN
6/19 Capitol Federal Park at Sandstone Bonner Springs, KS
hiphopdx.com
Yelawolf Signs To Interscope Records
by Allen Jacobs
DXnext alum Yelawolf has reportedly inked a deal with Interscope Records, this according to Miss Info. The Gasden, Alabama native will be the second state native to sign to Jimmy Iovine's label, after Mobile's Rich Boy. Although details are limited, Yelawolf will remain with Ghet-O-Vision, the independent he's been with for years.
In the last year, Yelawolf has worked with Slim Thug, Juelz Santana, Bun B and D12's Bizarre. He has yet to release a statement on the deal, though several sources have confirmed Info's initial scoop.
His tape, Trunk Muzik, released on January 1 can be downloaded here.
hiphopdx.com
DXnext alum Yelawolf has reportedly inked a deal with Interscope Records, this according to Miss Info. The Gasden, Alabama native will be the second state native to sign to Jimmy Iovine's label, after Mobile's Rich Boy. Although details are limited, Yelawolf will remain with Ghet-O-Vision, the independent he's been with for years.
In the last year, Yelawolf has worked with Slim Thug, Juelz Santana, Bun B and D12's Bizarre. He has yet to release a statement on the deal, though several sources have confirmed Info's initial scoop.
His tape, Trunk Muzik, released on January 1 can be downloaded here.
hiphopdx.com
Big Boi Talks Def Jam Deal
by Slava Kuperstein
With OutKast's Big Boi finally inking a deal with Def Jam last week to release his Sir Luscious Left Foot solo album, the rapper sat down with www.gyantunplugged.com to discuss his past and present label situations, as well as future endeavors.
"It was a lot of behind the scenes, label politics, basically." said Big Boi in the video interview
. "A lot of people don't know, we started at LaFace Records with LA Reid, a very creative mind. He definitely gave us an avenue to make the music we wanted to make."
Big Boi went on to explain LaFace's acquisition by another company with whom he didn't have a personal relationship. However, Jive finally allowed Big Boi to make a move to Def Jam. "Just recently, as of maybe three weeks ago, they gave me the opportunity to take the album elsewhere. I called my big brother LA Reid, he said, 'Meet me in Miami.' The next day, we flew to Miami, played him the music, he said, 'Let's do it,' [and the] deal is done."
Describing himself "Happy as hell," Big Boi allayed any ideas that he may be concerned with Def Jam's perceived lack of present-day marquee artists. "I'm not even concerned with nothing but me. People might say [Def Jam] doesn't have any hot artists, but he got the number one record with Ludacris' last week...My album is a musical nuclear bomb, and we finna drop it."
hiphopdx.com
Pharoahe Monch Talks Organized Konfusion Reunion
by Paul W Arnold
Legendary lyricist Pharoahe Monch spoke to HipHopDX late Friday (March 26th) and revealed that he and onetime partner-in-rhyme Prince Po will soon be treating long-starving Organized Konfusion fans to new music and performances
from the celebrated duo that has technically been on a decade-plus hiatus.
“We recorded a [new] joint together,” Pharoahe revealed to DX of he and Po’s recent in-studio reunion. “We’re looking at recording some more records together. [But] in terms of us doing an album together, we really haven’t even began to process the approach to doing that.”
While the long-awaited fourth full-length from Organized Konfusion now appears unlikely to surface anytime soon, longtime fans of the creative-boundary pushers can catch some nostalgic flashbacks to the group’s glory days as Po and Pharoahe continue their recent string of performances together from last year into this summer.
“We did some reunion shows last year, one at B.B. King’s [on 9/25/09] that was insane, man – big up to everybody who came out,” noted Pharoahe. “The place was packed. We did one at [the All Points West] festival in [New] Jersey [on 3/30/09] where Jay-Z head-lined… And then we been booked this summer to do some gigs overseas. So, I think naturally that the work [on new Organized Konfusion music] will get done. But, the effort, and time…and all of that – The whole long-player thing it would really, really, really have to make sense for him and for me [to put a whole album together at this point].”
The aforementioned new O.K. song – the duo’s first recording together since their “Then And Now” union in 2008 - http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.7677/title.organized-konfusion-reunites-for-track-releases-best-of will be making its way out to the people shortly.
“We should be leaking it [soon],” Pharoahe revealed of the track that he slyly dodged a request to divulge the title of. “I just wanted to find a way to get it to the people in a unique way, rather than just dumping it on the Internet.”
Pharoahe has apparently chosen to go ahead and leak the song in lieu of placing it on his upcoming new solo album, W.A.R. (We Are Renegades), as he explained to DX, “I wish I could [put it on there], it’s hot, but it doesn’t fit on the record.”
It has been nearly 13 years since the September 1997 release of Organized Konfusion’s last full-length, The Equinox: the ambitious concept-driven, (but critically panned and commercially ignored), follow-up to O.K.’s classic 1994 effort Stress: The Extinction Agenda. And while Po made an appearance on Pharoahe’s 1999 solo debut, Internal Affairs – a project that Pharoahe only undertook after Po decided to take a break from recording and touring following Equinox – the duo have yet to officially resume recording together as Organized Konfusion (Pharoahe did not appear on either of Po’s two solo albums, 2004’s The Slickness and 2006’s Prettyblack, and Po failed to surface on Pharoahe’s sophomore solo effort, 2007’s Desire).
Roughly six years ago an attempted O.K. recording reunion was reportedly abandoned after Po rebuked plans to reform the group as a trio with the inclusion of Pharoahe’s childhood friend, (and guest star on O.K.’s second single, “Fudge Pudge,” from their self-titled 1991 debut album), O.C., into the official group lineup. When asked what exactly happened to that initial failed attempt at bringing Organized back together to record new group music prior to last year Pharoahe once again slyly dodged the question and replied, “I don’t remember. [Laughs]”
Following their “Ridiculous” pairing for last year’s compilation effort from DJ JS-1, Ground Original 2, additional recordings from the tag team of Pharoahe and O.C. are being planned. “That’s in the works too,” Pharoahe revealed of more to come from the twosome. “Just songs [together instead of a full project], ‘cause at this point of maturity when your creative juices get going it’s so distinct and pinpoint – you rarely find cats just rhyming for the sake of riddling… [And] it’s hard to do collabos, [especially] an album of collabos of just that.”
Stay tuned to HipHopDX for our forthcoming feature interview with Pharoahe Monch to learn how Nas personally made an effort to explain to Monch that he didn’t bite Organized Konfusion for one of his Premo-produced conceptual gems, how Pharoahe was shocked to learn of Notorious B.I.G.’s appreciation of his skills on the mic, why the former SRC/Universal Records artist has left the major-label game for good, and to get some exclusive details on Pharoahe’s forthcoming new solo effort, (his first release in conjunction with Duck Down Records), W.A.R. (We Are Renegades).
Purchase Music by Organized Konfusion
hiphopdx.com
Legendary lyricist Pharoahe Monch spoke to HipHopDX late Friday (March 26th) and revealed that he and onetime partner-in-rhyme Prince Po will soon be treating long-starving Organized Konfusion fans to new music and performances
from the celebrated duo that has technically been on a decade-plus hiatus.
“We recorded a [new] joint together,” Pharoahe revealed to DX of he and Po’s recent in-studio reunion. “We’re looking at recording some more records together. [But] in terms of us doing an album together, we really haven’t even began to process the approach to doing that.”
While the long-awaited fourth full-length from Organized Konfusion now appears unlikely to surface anytime soon, longtime fans of the creative-boundary pushers can catch some nostalgic flashbacks to the group’s glory days as Po and Pharoahe continue their recent string of performances together from last year into this summer.
“We did some reunion shows last year, one at B.B. King’s [on 9/25/09] that was insane, man – big up to everybody who came out,” noted Pharoahe. “The place was packed. We did one at [the All Points West] festival in [New] Jersey [on 3/30/09] where Jay-Z head-lined… And then we been booked this summer to do some gigs overseas. So, I think naturally that the work [on new Organized Konfusion music] will get done. But, the effort, and time…and all of that – The whole long-player thing it would really, really, really have to make sense for him and for me [to put a whole album together at this point].”
The aforementioned new O.K. song – the duo’s first recording together since their “Then And Now” union in 2008 - http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.7677/title.organized-konfusion-reunites-for-track-releases-best-of will be making its way out to the people shortly.
“We should be leaking it [soon],” Pharoahe revealed of the track that he slyly dodged a request to divulge the title of. “I just wanted to find a way to get it to the people in a unique way, rather than just dumping it on the Internet.”
Pharoahe has apparently chosen to go ahead and leak the song in lieu of placing it on his upcoming new solo album, W.A.R. (We Are Renegades), as he explained to DX, “I wish I could [put it on there], it’s hot, but it doesn’t fit on the record.”
It has been nearly 13 years since the September 1997 release of Organized Konfusion’s last full-length, The Equinox: the ambitious concept-driven, (but critically panned and commercially ignored), follow-up to O.K.’s classic 1994 effort Stress: The Extinction Agenda. And while Po made an appearance on Pharoahe’s 1999 solo debut, Internal Affairs – a project that Pharoahe only undertook after Po decided to take a break from recording and touring following Equinox – the duo have yet to officially resume recording together as Organized Konfusion (Pharoahe did not appear on either of Po’s two solo albums, 2004’s The Slickness and 2006’s Prettyblack, and Po failed to surface on Pharoahe’s sophomore solo effort, 2007’s Desire).
Roughly six years ago an attempted O.K. recording reunion was reportedly abandoned after Po rebuked plans to reform the group as a trio with the inclusion of Pharoahe’s childhood friend, (and guest star on O.K.’s second single, “Fudge Pudge,” from their self-titled 1991 debut album), O.C., into the official group lineup. When asked what exactly happened to that initial failed attempt at bringing Organized back together to record new group music prior to last year Pharoahe once again slyly dodged the question and replied, “I don’t remember. [Laughs]”
Following their “Ridiculous” pairing for last year’s compilation effort from DJ JS-1, Ground Original 2, additional recordings from the tag team of Pharoahe and O.C. are being planned. “That’s in the works too,” Pharoahe revealed of more to come from the twosome. “Just songs [together instead of a full project], ‘cause at this point of maturity when your creative juices get going it’s so distinct and pinpoint – you rarely find cats just rhyming for the sake of riddling… [And] it’s hard to do collabos, [especially] an album of collabos of just that.”
Stay tuned to HipHopDX for our forthcoming feature interview with Pharoahe Monch to learn how Nas personally made an effort to explain to Monch that he didn’t bite Organized Konfusion for one of his Premo-produced conceptual gems, how Pharoahe was shocked to learn of Notorious B.I.G.’s appreciation of his skills on the mic, why the former SRC/Universal Records artist has left the major-label game for good, and to get some exclusive details on Pharoahe’s forthcoming new solo effort, (his first release in conjunction with Duck Down Records), W.A.R. (We Are Renegades).
Purchase Music by Organized Konfusion
hiphopdx.com
Public Enemy Celebrates 20th Anniversary Of 'Fear of A Black Planet'
By Mike Winslow
(AllHipHop News) Public Enemy will celebrate the 20th anniversary of their classic album Fear of a Black Planet on Thursday (April 1) at the University of Iowa.
The event is part of the University of Iowa’s ongoing exhibit “Two Turntables and a Microphone: Hip-Hop Contexts featuring Harry Allen‘s ‘Part of the Permanent Record: Photos from the Previous Century.”
The exhibit is a collection 26 large photographs being displayed by journalist and Public Enemy affiliate, the “Media Assassin,” Harry Allen.
On Thursday, Public Enemy Harry Allen and Bomb Squad members Hank and Keith Shocklee will attend classes at the university, conduct interviews with student radio.
Also, the group will host a Q&A about Fear of A Black Planet, which turns 20-years-old this Spring.
The Fear of A Black Planet 20th Anniversary Celebration is takes place April 1st at The University of Iowa and is free and open to the public.
Harry Allen’s “Two Turntables and a Microphone: Hip-Hop Context” exhibit opened on Sunday (March 27) and remains at the University until June 27.
In May, Public Enemy will launch their 71st tour on outings throughout North America, Europe, Africa Canada and Australia.
Tour dates are listed below:
21 WINNEPEG – BURTON CUMMINGS THEATRE
22 SASKATOON – ODEON EVENTS CENTER (
24 CALGARY – THE WHISKEY
25 EDMONTON – EDMONTON EVENT CENTRE
26-Travel -
27 VANCOUVER – COMMODORE BALLROOM
28-TBD
29 SEATTLE MARKET – SASQUATCH – CONFIRMED
30 CHILLICOTHE ILLINOIS
(CHICAGO MARKET)– 2010 SUMMER CAMP festival
WWW.SUMMERCAMPFESTIVAL.COM
JUNE 2010
JUNE 25 – MILWAUKEE / MILWAUKEE SUMMERFEST
JUNE 26 – CHICAGO / CONGRESS BALLROOM
JUNE 27 – CLEVELAND / HOUSE OF BLUES
JUNE 28 – GREEN BAY / ONEIDA CASINO
August 2010
6 WINDSOR – festival
7 TORONTO Collingwood –festival
8 MONTREAL
9- TBD
10 TBD
11- TBD
12 TBD Boston
13 Washington dc 930 CLUB
14 Philadelphia/ TROCODERO
15 NEW YORK – central park
SEPTEMBER 2010
11 TBD
TBD SOUTHEAST ATLANTA
OCTOBER 2010
TBD West Coast 5 date run
NOVEMBER 2010
1-15
TBD Europe run
DECEMBER 2010
TBD 20-27 SOUTH AFRICA
THUR 30 DEC – FALLS FESTIVAL,VICTORIA
FRI 31 DEC – FALLS FESTIVAL,TASMANIA
SAT 1 JAN – FIELD DAY,SYDNEY
WED 5 JAN – SUNSET SOUNDS,BRISBANE
allhiphop.com
(AllHipHop News) Public Enemy will celebrate the 20th anniversary of their classic album Fear of a Black Planet on Thursday (April 1) at the University of Iowa.
The event is part of the University of Iowa’s ongoing exhibit “Two Turntables and a Microphone: Hip-Hop Contexts featuring Harry Allen‘s ‘Part of the Permanent Record: Photos from the Previous Century.”
The exhibit is a collection 26 large photographs being displayed by journalist and Public Enemy affiliate, the “Media Assassin,” Harry Allen.
On Thursday, Public Enemy Harry Allen and Bomb Squad members Hank and Keith Shocklee will attend classes at the university, conduct interviews with student radio.
Also, the group will host a Q&A about Fear of A Black Planet, which turns 20-years-old this Spring.
The Fear of A Black Planet 20th Anniversary Celebration is takes place April 1st at The University of Iowa and is free and open to the public.
Harry Allen’s “Two Turntables and a Microphone: Hip-Hop Context” exhibit opened on Sunday (March 27) and remains at the University until June 27.
In May, Public Enemy will launch their 71st tour on outings throughout North America, Europe, Africa Canada and Australia.
Tour dates are listed below:
21 WINNEPEG – BURTON CUMMINGS THEATRE
22 SASKATOON – ODEON EVENTS CENTER (
24 CALGARY – THE WHISKEY
25 EDMONTON – EDMONTON EVENT CENTRE
26-Travel -
27 VANCOUVER – COMMODORE BALLROOM
28-TBD
29 SEATTLE MARKET – SASQUATCH – CONFIRMED
30 CHILLICOTHE ILLINOIS
(CHICAGO MARKET)– 2010 SUMMER CAMP festival
WWW.SUMMERCAMPFESTIVAL.COM
JUNE 2010
JUNE 25 – MILWAUKEE / MILWAUKEE SUMMERFEST
JUNE 26 – CHICAGO / CONGRESS BALLROOM
JUNE 27 – CLEVELAND / HOUSE OF BLUES
JUNE 28 – GREEN BAY / ONEIDA CASINO
August 2010
6 WINDSOR – festival
7 TORONTO Collingwood –festival
8 MONTREAL
9- TBD
10 TBD
11- TBD
12 TBD Boston
13 Washington dc 930 CLUB
14 Philadelphia/ TROCODERO
15 NEW YORK – central park
SEPTEMBER 2010
11 TBD
TBD SOUTHEAST ATLANTA
OCTOBER 2010
TBD West Coast 5 date run
NOVEMBER 2010
1-15
TBD Europe run
DECEMBER 2010
TBD 20-27 SOUTH AFRICA
THUR 30 DEC – FALLS FESTIVAL,VICTORIA
FRI 31 DEC – FALLS FESTIVAL,TASMANIA
SAT 1 JAN – FIELD DAY,SYDNEY
WED 5 JAN – SUNSET SOUNDS,BRISBANE
allhiphop.com
AZ Announces 'Doe or Die 2'; Launches New Website
By Roman Wolfe
(AllHipHop News) Queens rapper AZ is preparing to release a mix tape full of new material titled Doe or Die 2.
The album is AZ's first official release since his 2008 album Undeniable.
Additionally AZ announced that he will launch HeyAz.com, a new interactive website to promote his new releases as well as other projects.
"There are two types of people in the world, trend-setters & trend-sweaters,” AZ stated.
According to AZ, artists will be able to distribute their music through the rapper's new website as well.
Doe or Die 2 is AZ's eighth official album and is slated to be released in the summer of 2010.
allhiphop.com
(AllHipHop News) Queens rapper AZ is preparing to release a mix tape full of new material titled Doe or Die 2.
The album is AZ's first official release since his 2008 album Undeniable.
Additionally AZ announced that he will launch HeyAz.com, a new interactive website to promote his new releases as well as other projects.
"There are two types of people in the world, trend-setters & trend-sweaters,” AZ stated.
According to AZ, artists will be able to distribute their music through the rapper's new website as well.
Doe or Die 2 is AZ's eighth official album and is slated to be released in the summer of 2010.
allhiphop.com
Fat Joe Returns With 'The Darkside' This Summer
By Ismael AbduSalaam
(AllHipHop News) E1 Music has confirmed with AllHipHop.com the signing of seasoned Bronx rapper and Terror Squad leader Fat Joe, who will drop a new album The Dark Side this summer.
Joe’s last offering with 2009’s Jealous Ones Still Envy 2 (J.O.S.E. 2), released on EMI subsidiary Imperial Records.
It has been 17 years since Fat Joe made his debut with the 1993 boom bap single “Flow Joe,” and the album Represent.
From initial humble beginnings with the critically-acclaimed Diggin’ In the Crates crew, the self-proclaimed Don Cartagena has gone on to sell over 2.5 million records.
E1 president Alan Grunblatt was one of the parties who brokered the Bronx emcee’s first deal with Relativity, and expects fans to be impressed with Joe’s latest work.
“I originally signed Fat Joe to his first record deal and was blown away by the new material Joe played me,” Grunblatt explained. “Fate has brought us back together; trust me when I tell you he’s got bangers for days!”
As an artist that’s experienced both major and indie label situations, Joe revealed his choice rested with his trust in Alan Grunblatt’s previous track record and vision.
Also, the Terror Squad founder pointed to E1’s success in marketing Hip-Hop acts with devoted fan bases.
“It’s been a long time coming. I have a long history with Alan Grunblatt and everyone at E1,” Fat Joe detailed in a statement. “Although it’s a small label, they have the best marketing and promotion staff in the hip hop game and I’m looking forward to working with them on my new album, The Dark Side.”
The first single, “Slow Down,” features Young Jeezy and will debut soon in urban radio outlets.
The Dark Side is scheduled to be released on June 29th.
allhiphop.com
(AllHipHop News) E1 Music has confirmed with AllHipHop.com the signing of seasoned Bronx rapper and Terror Squad leader Fat Joe, who will drop a new album The Dark Side this summer.
Joe’s last offering with 2009’s Jealous Ones Still Envy 2 (J.O.S.E. 2), released on EMI subsidiary Imperial Records.
It has been 17 years since Fat Joe made his debut with the 1993 boom bap single “Flow Joe,” and the album Represent.
From initial humble beginnings with the critically-acclaimed Diggin’ In the Crates crew, the self-proclaimed Don Cartagena has gone on to sell over 2.5 million records.
E1 president Alan Grunblatt was one of the parties who brokered the Bronx emcee’s first deal with Relativity, and expects fans to be impressed with Joe’s latest work.
“I originally signed Fat Joe to his first record deal and was blown away by the new material Joe played me,” Grunblatt explained. “Fate has brought us back together; trust me when I tell you he’s got bangers for days!”
As an artist that’s experienced both major and indie label situations, Joe revealed his choice rested with his trust in Alan Grunblatt’s previous track record and vision.
Also, the Terror Squad founder pointed to E1’s success in marketing Hip-Hop acts with devoted fan bases.
“It’s been a long time coming. I have a long history with Alan Grunblatt and everyone at E1,” Fat Joe detailed in a statement. “Although it’s a small label, they have the best marketing and promotion staff in the hip hop game and I’m looking forward to working with them on my new album, The Dark Side.”
The first single, “Slow Down,” features Young Jeezy and will debut soon in urban radio outlets.
The Dark Side is scheduled to be released on June 29th.
allhiphop.com
Talib, Hi-Tek, Sha Money Talk Reflection Eternal's 'RPM'
By Roman Wolfe
(AllHipHop News) Hip-Hop duo reflection eternal are preparing to release their first album of new material in almost 10 years.
Talib Kweli and Hi-Tek will release the album R.P.M. (Revolutions Per Minute) on May 11 in parternship with Sha Money XL's Dream Big Ventures and Kweli's Blacksmith imprint.
“It’s amazing, him [Kweli] and Hi-Tek, they gel so good together as far as creating music,” Sha Money XL told AllHipHop.com. “I’m very happy with the product that’s about to be released to the world. The music is good, it’s Hip-Hop, it’s authentic, it’s really beats and rhymes and really good songs.”
Sha Money XL co-managed 50 Cent and ran the G-Unit Records imprint for several years, before launching his own imprint, Dream Big Ventures in November of 2009.
In addition to Reflection Eternal’s album, Dream Big Ventures is preparing the highly anticipated debut album Statlanta from rapper Stat Quo, which will land in stores this June.
Hi-Tek is confident that the return of Reflection Eternal will satisfy fans, despite the ten year lapse since releasing their critically acclaimed debut, Train of Thought.
“Musically and business wise I’ve grown a lot, but when it comes to actually going back in the studio with Kweli,” Hi-Tek told AllHipHop.com in a previous interview. “It just feels like going back to right where we left off. I realized our sound is one of [the] voids in Hip-Hop right now, and the game needs Reflection Eternal”
Kweli and Hi-Tek will debut selections off of R.P.M. during a show in Moscow Russia tonight (March 28).
“My agenda for the first Reflection Eternal album was to prove that I was worthy for the position I have,” Talib Kweli told AllHipHop.com. “Now I‘m only interested in making timeless music. I didn’t want that early in my career, I just wanted to make you think I was the best MC.”
According to Sha Money XL, fans will love the timeless sound the pair have created from themselves.
“It’s been ten years since they’ve been together so I felt this was a great way for them to reunite,” Sha Money XL told AllHipHop.com. “People will love Kweli’s sound with Hi-Tek over the production they remember him from in the earlier part of his career.”
The album is due in stores May 11 on Blacksmith/Dream Big Ventures with distribution by The Orchard.
allhiphop.com
(AllHipHop News) Hip-Hop duo reflection eternal are preparing to release their first album of new material in almost 10 years.
Talib Kweli and Hi-Tek will release the album R.P.M. (Revolutions Per Minute) on May 11 in parternship with Sha Money XL's Dream Big Ventures and Kweli's Blacksmith imprint.
“It’s amazing, him [Kweli] and Hi-Tek, they gel so good together as far as creating music,” Sha Money XL told AllHipHop.com. “I’m very happy with the product that’s about to be released to the world. The music is good, it’s Hip-Hop, it’s authentic, it’s really beats and rhymes and really good songs.”
Sha Money XL co-managed 50 Cent and ran the G-Unit Records imprint for several years, before launching his own imprint, Dream Big Ventures in November of 2009.
In addition to Reflection Eternal’s album, Dream Big Ventures is preparing the highly anticipated debut album Statlanta from rapper Stat Quo, which will land in stores this June.
Hi-Tek is confident that the return of Reflection Eternal will satisfy fans, despite the ten year lapse since releasing their critically acclaimed debut, Train of Thought.
“Musically and business wise I’ve grown a lot, but when it comes to actually going back in the studio with Kweli,” Hi-Tek told AllHipHop.com in a previous interview. “It just feels like going back to right where we left off. I realized our sound is one of [the] voids in Hip-Hop right now, and the game needs Reflection Eternal”
Kweli and Hi-Tek will debut selections off of R.P.M. during a show in Moscow Russia tonight (March 28).
“My agenda for the first Reflection Eternal album was to prove that I was worthy for the position I have,” Talib Kweli told AllHipHop.com. “Now I‘m only interested in making timeless music. I didn’t want that early in my career, I just wanted to make you think I was the best MC.”
According to Sha Money XL, fans will love the timeless sound the pair have created from themselves.
“It’s been ten years since they’ve been together so I felt this was a great way for them to reunite,” Sha Money XL told AllHipHop.com. “People will love Kweli’s sound with Hi-Tek over the production they remember him from in the earlier part of his career.”
The album is due in stores May 11 on Blacksmith/Dream Big Ventures with distribution by The Orchard.
allhiphop.com
DJ Skee Named as Hip-Hop Ambassador to Governor Schwarzenegger’ Charity
By Mike Winslow
(AllHipHop News) Popular Los Angeles personality DJ Skee has been named as the Hip-Hop Ambassador to Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s charity, After-School All-Stars, Los Angeles (ASAS-LA).
The non-profit features a number of after school activities aimed at improving the health, fitness and nutritional habits of students, in addition to fostering youth leadership and community service.
ASAS-LA also uses cutting edge programs to reduce drug use, crime and violence among middle and high school students.
"Being involved with the kids in the After-School All-Stars, Los Angeles programs brings things full circle," DJ Skee told AllHipHop.com in a statement today (March 25). "Hip-hop originates from the communities that these students come from. Hip-hop is a big part of their culture…and to teach them the positive aspects of the industry; that actual careers exist within the industry; that lead industry figures are devoted to giving back to the community…it gives them the type of exposure needed to take the hip-hop culture on a positive path. These kids are the future of hip-hop."
ASAS-LA serves over 10,000 children throughout the Los Angeles area. DJ Skee will work in tandem with Kobe Bryant, the organization’s national spokesman.
The non-profit also houses All-Star Records, a free music program that teaches the fundamentals of Hip-Hop, aimed at 10-18 year-olds, to ultimately provide a safer learning environment.
DJ Skee is an internationally known DJ with a show on Los Angeles’ KIIS-FM, the most listen to station radio station in the country.
He is also syndicated on Sirius/XM Satellite Radio through Europe, Asia and Australia and runs SkeeTv.com. (AllHipHop News) Popular Los Angeles personality DJ Skee has been named as the Hip-Hop Ambassador to Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s charity, After-School All-Stars, Los Angeles (ASAS-LA).
The non-profit features a number of after school activities aimed at improving the health, fitness and nutritional habits of students, in addition to fostering youth leadership and community service.
ASAS-LA also uses cutting edge programs to reduce drug use, crime and violence among middle and high school students.
"Being involved with the kids in the After-School All-Stars, Los Angeles programs brings things full circle," DJ Skee told AllHipHop.com in a statement today (March 25). "Hip-hop originates from the communities that these students come from. Hip-hop is a big part of their culture…and to teach them the positive aspects of the industry; that actual careers exist within the industry; that lead industry figures are devoted to giving back to the community…it gives them the type of exposure needed to take the hip-hop culture on a positive path. These kids are the future of hip-hop."
ASAS-LA serves over 10,000 children throughout the Los Angeles area. DJ Skee will work in tandem with Kobe Bryant, the organization’s national spokesman.
The non-profit also houses All-Star Records, a free music program that teaches the fundamentals of Hip-Hop, aimed at 10-18 year-olds, to ultimately provide a safer learning environment.
DJ Skee is an internationally known DJ with a show on Los Angeles’ KIIS-FM, the most listen to station radio station in the country.
He is also syndicated on Sirius/XM Satellite Radio through Europe, Asia and Australia and runs SkeeTv.com.
allhiphop.com
(AllHipHop News) Popular Los Angeles personality DJ Skee has been named as the Hip-Hop Ambassador to Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s charity, After-School All-Stars, Los Angeles (ASAS-LA).
The non-profit features a number of after school activities aimed at improving the health, fitness and nutritional habits of students, in addition to fostering youth leadership and community service.
ASAS-LA also uses cutting edge programs to reduce drug use, crime and violence among middle and high school students.
"Being involved with the kids in the After-School All-Stars, Los Angeles programs brings things full circle," DJ Skee told AllHipHop.com in a statement today (March 25). "Hip-hop originates from the communities that these students come from. Hip-hop is a big part of their culture…and to teach them the positive aspects of the industry; that actual careers exist within the industry; that lead industry figures are devoted to giving back to the community…it gives them the type of exposure needed to take the hip-hop culture on a positive path. These kids are the future of hip-hop."
ASAS-LA serves over 10,000 children throughout the Los Angeles area. DJ Skee will work in tandem with Kobe Bryant, the organization’s national spokesman.
The non-profit also houses All-Star Records, a free music program that teaches the fundamentals of Hip-Hop, aimed at 10-18 year-olds, to ultimately provide a safer learning environment.
DJ Skee is an internationally known DJ with a show on Los Angeles’ KIIS-FM, the most listen to station radio station in the country.
He is also syndicated on Sirius/XM Satellite Radio through Europe, Asia and Australia and runs SkeeTv.com. (AllHipHop News) Popular Los Angeles personality DJ Skee has been named as the Hip-Hop Ambassador to Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s charity, After-School All-Stars, Los Angeles (ASAS-LA).
The non-profit features a number of after school activities aimed at improving the health, fitness and nutritional habits of students, in addition to fostering youth leadership and community service.
ASAS-LA also uses cutting edge programs to reduce drug use, crime and violence among middle and high school students.
"Being involved with the kids in the After-School All-Stars, Los Angeles programs brings things full circle," DJ Skee told AllHipHop.com in a statement today (March 25). "Hip-hop originates from the communities that these students come from. Hip-hop is a big part of their culture…and to teach them the positive aspects of the industry; that actual careers exist within the industry; that lead industry figures are devoted to giving back to the community…it gives them the type of exposure needed to take the hip-hop culture on a positive path. These kids are the future of hip-hop."
ASAS-LA serves over 10,000 children throughout the Los Angeles area. DJ Skee will work in tandem with Kobe Bryant, the organization’s national spokesman.
The non-profit also houses All-Star Records, a free music program that teaches the fundamentals of Hip-Hop, aimed at 10-18 year-olds, to ultimately provide a safer learning environment.
DJ Skee is an internationally known DJ with a show on Los Angeles’ KIIS-FM, the most listen to station radio station in the country.
He is also syndicated on Sirius/XM Satellite Radio through Europe, Asia and Australia and runs SkeeTv.com.
allhiphop.com
Raekwon Headlines 1st Russian Hip-Hop Summit
By Nolan Strong
(AllHipHop News) Wu-Tang Clan member Raekwon the Chef will headline Russia’s first Hip-Hop Summit late next month in Moscow.
The summit will be held on April 25th at the Luzhniki Sports Complex.
Organizers said the 1st Russian Hip-Hop Summit will be dedicated to the development of the Russian Hip-Hop industry and to develop, establish and maintain international relationships between artists around the globe.
Also featured in the summit will be Queens, New York Hip-Hop group Onyx, as well as Russian Hip-Hop stars NoGGano and Ассаи, Basta, Vakhtang, ST, Купэ and others.
"The summit will show that our Hip-Hop is not lagging behind: we learned a lot over the past 15 years, and now Russian and American artists are able to perform on one stage, not yielding to each other,” a rep said in a statement.
During the summit the top new comer of the year will be announced.
The vote is being determined by the Russian Hip-Hop audience at www.hiphopsummit.ru.
allhiphop.com
Bun B. Teams With New Crop Of Emcees For Upcoming Single
By Roman Wolfe
(AllHipHop News) Texas rap legend Bun B. continues to work and actively collaborate with a new crop of emcees blossoming in the Hip-Hop genre.
Over the weekend, Bun B. was in Austin Texas shooting a video with rappers Chuck Inglish, Chip The Ripper and Freddie Gibbs for an upcoming single.
Chuck Inglish and Mickey Rocks form the critically acclaimed duo The Cool Kids, who met via MySpace in 2005.
The pair have since released a number of critically acclaimed independent releases, in addition to recording with artists like Twista, Pac Div,
Cleveland rapper Chip The Ripper has been bubbling based on releases like “Get It Girl“ and “Fitted” in addition to being cosigned by producer Hi-Tek.
Gary, Indiana native Freddie Gibbs has already worked with a number of top producers, including Just Blaze, Alchemist, Buckwild and others in addition to being featured in XXL magazine, as well as AllHipHop.com’s Breeding Ground.
“It’s just something we came together and did,” Bun B. told AllHipHop.com in regards to the single’s origin.
“Rich Perry, the manager for The Cool Kids and Pac Div was like ‘yo, I’m trying to do a something a little different, I got this track, I just want to put a couple of cats on it and see what happens. We just got together and did it,” Bun B. stated.
Bun B. has been recording for almost as many years as all of the new artists have combined.
This fact does not deter Bun from working with the latest in Hip-Hop talent.
“You can’t break the cycle,” Bun B. told AllHipHop.com. “Life goes in cycles and there’s cycles within the main cycle. You look around and you see things happening that happened before in the past and you see the new resurgence of emcee’s and if you don’t step out the way sometimes and let these kids come through, they are just going to push you out of the way. I give my blessings and my cosigns, and I put them on my shoulders so to speak and they give me game and hopefully they come back and pull me up and then we pull somebody else up. And that’s how they game supposed to go. “
Bun B. is currently working on his new album Trill O.G. for Rap-A-Lot/Universal Records.
allhiphop.com
(AllHipHop News) Texas rap legend Bun B. continues to work and actively collaborate with a new crop of emcees blossoming in the Hip-Hop genre.
Over the weekend, Bun B. was in Austin Texas shooting a video with rappers Chuck Inglish, Chip The Ripper and Freddie Gibbs for an upcoming single.
Chuck Inglish and Mickey Rocks form the critically acclaimed duo The Cool Kids, who met via MySpace in 2005.
The pair have since released a number of critically acclaimed independent releases, in addition to recording with artists like Twista, Pac Div,
Cleveland rapper Chip The Ripper has been bubbling based on releases like “Get It Girl“ and “Fitted” in addition to being cosigned by producer Hi-Tek.
Gary, Indiana native Freddie Gibbs has already worked with a number of top producers, including Just Blaze, Alchemist, Buckwild and others in addition to being featured in XXL magazine, as well as AllHipHop.com’s Breeding Ground.
“It’s just something we came together and did,” Bun B. told AllHipHop.com in regards to the single’s origin.
“Rich Perry, the manager for The Cool Kids and Pac Div was like ‘yo, I’m trying to do a something a little different, I got this track, I just want to put a couple of cats on it and see what happens. We just got together and did it,” Bun B. stated.
Bun B. has been recording for almost as many years as all of the new artists have combined.
This fact does not deter Bun from working with the latest in Hip-Hop talent.
“You can’t break the cycle,” Bun B. told AllHipHop.com. “Life goes in cycles and there’s cycles within the main cycle. You look around and you see things happening that happened before in the past and you see the new resurgence of emcee’s and if you don’t step out the way sometimes and let these kids come through, they are just going to push you out of the way. I give my blessings and my cosigns, and I put them on my shoulders so to speak and they give me game and hopefully they come back and pull me up and then we pull somebody else up. And that’s how they game supposed to go. “
Bun B. is currently working on his new album Trill O.G. for Rap-A-Lot/Universal Records.
allhiphop.com
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Rap veteran Phife Dawg from the legendary group A Tribe Called Quest is hitting the studio again, preparing his first solo record in 10 years. In a re
by Allen Jacobs
After a week without updates, legendary emcee/producer Keith "Guru" Elam's condition has been updated Monday morning. Guru's publicist has reported that he is in stable condition, ending three weeks of coma-reports to press and fans. Moreover, the emcee has been diagnosed with Anoxia, effects from a lengthy history of asthma and lung problems. The term "anoxia" means "lower levels of oxygen than most." Per medical reports online, that oxygen level not only effects breathing, but also the required levels for organ tissue.
On February 28, Guru went into coma after suffering cardiac arrest in New York. Although the rapper has yet to speak publicly, statements have been released on his behalf, causing controversy within Guru's family and the Hip Hop community. Quotes have been released asserting both his association with present production partner Solar as well as his continued disassociation with former Gang Starr partner DJ Premier. Members from Guru's family have also spoken out publicly, expressing distrust of Guru's handler.
That present spokesman, Solar, told publicists for this morning's statement that it is unclear at present when Guru will be released from an unidentified New York hospital, but did add that Guru is aware of fan support. "The outpouring of love from around the world has been tremendous," Solar said. "I'm reading some of the best e-mails, texts and Twitters that come in and Guru enjoys them. I think that's what has been helping his recovery and what's got him in there fighting."
hiphopdx.com
Phife Dawg Talks New LP, Documentary And More
by Krysten Hughes
Rap veteran Phife Dawg from the legendary group A Tribe Called Quest is hitting the studio again, preparing his first solo record in 10 years. In a recent interview with okayplayer.com, the New York emcee talked about plans to release the upcoming Songs in the Key of Phife.
Featured on the upcoming album is producers Oh No, Illmind and Tribe member Ali Shaheed Muhammad. Phife is also working with his own production company, Riddim Kids, which includes DJ Rasta Roots and Stat Box, and anticipates working with DJ Scratch and Organized Noise member Rico Wade.
"We’re doing this one track that I’m trying to get Big Boi from Outkast on as well as Cee-lo on the hook. He can do a verse for me as well because he’s a beast on both ends of the spectrum as you know. I’m looking forward to this track with KRS-One as well. So far so good. Imma also holla at some dude named Q-tip see what’s good and we gonna get it poppin like that," Phife told okayplayer.
Since undergoing a kidney transplant to help his battle with diabetes, Phife has been on the move. Outside of the new album, the '90s heavyweight is working on a talk show and clothing label. “I’m working on my own sports talk show, sports [and] music talk show, working on a pilot for that and I think I’m [going] call it The Fanalyst,” he said. “I’m also working on a clothing line. Well, I’m in a partnership for this clothing line called King Duce and it’s also a record label that I’m partnering with. I’m going to be head of urban music as well of head of urban wear.”
A documentary produced by actor Michael Rapaport, Beats, Rhymes & Life: The Travels of a Tribe Called Quest, is also set to be released soon chronicling the ups and downs of the legendary crew. "There’s some good times. There’s some bad times. You’re gonna see it all."
When asked when the new LP is slated to drop he replied, “In a perfect world like Keri Hilson would say, I wouldn’t mind it coming out sometime between August and November.”
hiphopdx.com
Rap veteran Phife Dawg from the legendary group A Tribe Called Quest is hitting the studio again, preparing his first solo record in 10 years. In a recent interview with okayplayer.com, the New York emcee talked about plans to release the upcoming Songs in the Key of Phife.
Featured on the upcoming album is producers Oh No, Illmind and Tribe member Ali Shaheed Muhammad. Phife is also working with his own production company, Riddim Kids, which includes DJ Rasta Roots and Stat Box, and anticipates working with DJ Scratch and Organized Noise member Rico Wade.
"We’re doing this one track that I’m trying to get Big Boi from Outkast on as well as Cee-lo on the hook. He can do a verse for me as well because he’s a beast on both ends of the spectrum as you know. I’m looking forward to this track with KRS-One as well. So far so good. Imma also holla at some dude named Q-tip see what’s good and we gonna get it poppin like that," Phife told okayplayer.
Since undergoing a kidney transplant to help his battle with diabetes, Phife has been on the move. Outside of the new album, the '90s heavyweight is working on a talk show and clothing label. “I’m working on my own sports talk show, sports [and] music talk show, working on a pilot for that and I think I’m [going] call it The Fanalyst,” he said. “I’m also working on a clothing line. Well, I’m in a partnership for this clothing line called King Duce and it’s also a record label that I’m partnering with. I’m going to be head of urban music as well of head of urban wear.”
A documentary produced by actor Michael Rapaport, Beats, Rhymes & Life: The Travels of a Tribe Called Quest, is also set to be released soon chronicling the ups and downs of the legendary crew. "There’s some good times. There’s some bad times. You’re gonna see it all."
When asked when the new LP is slated to drop he replied, “In a perfect world like Keri Hilson would say, I wouldn’t mind it coming out sometime between August and November.”
hiphopdx.com
Black Milk, Black Sheep, Diamond District Rock Austin
by Andres Tardio
Fans of music have been excited for SXSW and Brooklyn-based marketing firm, Audible Treats, is ready to appease some excited Hip Hop fans with this Saturday's showcase. On Saturday, March 20, 2010, Audible Treats will have their SXSW showcase featuring Black Milk, Black Sheep, One Be Lo, Diamond District, Donwill and Von Pea of Tanya Morgan, and others at The Independent located at 501 Brushy Street in Austin, Texas.
DJ Amp Live [of Zion I] will be on hand as the showcase DJ while iLL-Literacy, TRUTHLiVE, League 510, Bisco Smith, Finale and Crown Royale will also be there to perform. Some fans who attend will be the recipients of free giveaways like Maschine midi controllers from Native Instruments.
Michelle McDevitt, the Co-Founder and President of Audible Treats, says this will be a treat.
"We're looking forward to bursting onto the SX scene with a stellar line-up for our first official showcase," she noted.
Gavin Rhodes, Co-Founder and Director of Marketing, echoes those sentiments.
"We've worked hard with our media and lifestyle partners to produce an impressive show filled with amazing giveaways and prizes. Fans are going to be in for a real treat."
hiphopdx.com
Fans of music have been excited for SXSW and Brooklyn-based marketing firm, Audible Treats, is ready to appease some excited Hip Hop fans with this Saturday's showcase. On Saturday, March 20, 2010, Audible Treats will have their SXSW showcase featuring Black Milk, Black Sheep, One Be Lo, Diamond District, Donwill and Von Pea of Tanya Morgan, and others at The Independent located at 501 Brushy Street in Austin, Texas.
DJ Amp Live [of Zion I] will be on hand as the showcase DJ while iLL-Literacy, TRUTHLiVE, League 510, Bisco Smith, Finale and Crown Royale will also be there to perform. Some fans who attend will be the recipients of free giveaways like Maschine midi controllers from Native Instruments.
Michelle McDevitt, the Co-Founder and President of Audible Treats, says this will be a treat.
"We're looking forward to bursting onto the SX scene with a stellar line-up for our first official showcase," she noted.
Gavin Rhodes, Co-Founder and Director of Marketing, echoes those sentiments.
"We've worked hard with our media and lifestyle partners to produce an impressive show filled with amazing giveaways and prizes. Fans are going to be in for a real treat."
hiphopdx.com
Bone Thug’s Address Bizzy Bone’s Absence From Tour
By Roman Wolfe
(AllHipHop News) The reunited collective of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony will hit the road this month for their official reunion tour, although fans will only see four of the original members.
Krayzie, Wish, Layzie and Flesh-N-Bone will tour for the first time together in over a decade, minus original group member Bizzy Bone.
Internet rumors credited Bizzy’s absence to everything from a probation violation to a stint in rehab as potential reasons for his non-participation in the tour.
Layzie Bone told AllHipHop.com that it was simply a business decision for Bizzy Bone, who opted to remove himself from being involved with the tour, although he is prominently featured on Uni5: The World’s Enemy.
“That’s true, he has other obligations and we had a difference of opinion on how much we should get for this tour,” Layzie Bone told AllHipHop.com. “We looked at it like promo tour, he looked at it a little differently, which is cool, because his arrangement doesn’t require him to be there. He’s still a 1/5th member of Bone. We been together for 18 years now. We are all grown men, so we all have different arrangements within the Bone structure. The main thing about it, we don’t ever give up.
On March 24hth, the group is slated to launch a 34-date tour in support of their new album, which is due in stores on April 27th.
Thousands of fans who attended The Faderfort at 2010’s SXSW concert in Austin, Texas, on Saturday (March 20) caught a glimpse of the reunion, when Krayzie, Wish and Layzie performed an energetic set.
Flesh-N-Bone, who served almost 10 years in prison and was released in June 2009, was also absent from the show, simply because he missed his flight.
“Flesh came home really articulate, really rehabilitated. His vocabulary is off the hook,” Layzie Bone told AllHipHop.com. “He came home polished and he got same education when he was in there. Ten years is a long time to be studying, so he came home on polish man.”
Tour dates for Bone’s official reunion tour are listed below:
March 24: Minneapolis, Minn. First Avenue
March 25: Milwaukee, Wis. Eagles
March 26: Sauget, Ill. Pop's
March 27: Chicago, Ill. Congress
March 28: Cleveland, Ohio HOB
March 29: Indianapolis, Ind. The Vogue
March 31: Pittsburgh, Pa. Mr. Smalls
April 1: Columbus, Ohio Newport
April 2: Buffalo, N.Y. Town Ballroom
April 3: Lancaster, Pa. The Chameleon
April 5: Boston, Mass. Middle East
April 6: New York, N.Y. Irving Plaza
April 7: State College, Pa. Mezzanine
April 8: Baltimore, Md. Rams Head Live
April 9: Wilmington N.C. The Rox
April 10: Charlotte, N.C. Amos Southend
April 11: Charleston, S.C. The Music Farm
April 13: Athens, Ga. 40 Watt Club
April 14: Atlanta, Ga. Masquerade
April 15: Orlando, Fla. Firestone
April 16: Los Angeles, Calif. Gibson Amphitheatre
April 20: New Orleans, La. HOB
April 21: Dallas, Texas HOB
April 22: Houston, Texas HOB
April 23: San Antonio, Texas Scoutbar
April 24: Austin, Texas Emo's
April 26: Tulsa, Okla. Cain's Ballroom
April 27: Colombia, Mo. The Blue Note
April 28: Council Bluffs, Iowa Harrah's
April 29: Kansas City, Kan. Harrah's
April 30: Denver, Colo. Gothic Theatre (Englewood)
May 1: Albuquerque, N.M. Sunshine Theatre
May 2: Phoenix, Ariz. Celebrity Theatre
May 3: Tuscon, Ariz. Rialto Theatre
allhiphop.com
(AllHipHop News) The reunited collective of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony will hit the road this month for their official reunion tour, although fans will only see four of the original members.
Krayzie, Wish, Layzie and Flesh-N-Bone will tour for the first time together in over a decade, minus original group member Bizzy Bone.
Internet rumors credited Bizzy’s absence to everything from a probation violation to a stint in rehab as potential reasons for his non-participation in the tour.
Layzie Bone told AllHipHop.com that it was simply a business decision for Bizzy Bone, who opted to remove himself from being involved with the tour, although he is prominently featured on Uni5: The World’s Enemy.
“That’s true, he has other obligations and we had a difference of opinion on how much we should get for this tour,” Layzie Bone told AllHipHop.com. “We looked at it like promo tour, he looked at it a little differently, which is cool, because his arrangement doesn’t require him to be there. He’s still a 1/5th member of Bone. We been together for 18 years now. We are all grown men, so we all have different arrangements within the Bone structure. The main thing about it, we don’t ever give up.
On March 24hth, the group is slated to launch a 34-date tour in support of their new album, which is due in stores on April 27th.
Thousands of fans who attended The Faderfort at 2010’s SXSW concert in Austin, Texas, on Saturday (March 20) caught a glimpse of the reunion, when Krayzie, Wish and Layzie performed an energetic set.
Flesh-N-Bone, who served almost 10 years in prison and was released in June 2009, was also absent from the show, simply because he missed his flight.
“Flesh came home really articulate, really rehabilitated. His vocabulary is off the hook,” Layzie Bone told AllHipHop.com. “He came home polished and he got same education when he was in there. Ten years is a long time to be studying, so he came home on polish man.”
Tour dates for Bone’s official reunion tour are listed below:
March 24: Minneapolis, Minn. First Avenue
March 25: Milwaukee, Wis. Eagles
March 26: Sauget, Ill. Pop's
March 27: Chicago, Ill. Congress
March 28: Cleveland, Ohio HOB
March 29: Indianapolis, Ind. The Vogue
March 31: Pittsburgh, Pa. Mr. Smalls
April 1: Columbus, Ohio Newport
April 2: Buffalo, N.Y. Town Ballroom
April 3: Lancaster, Pa. The Chameleon
April 5: Boston, Mass. Middle East
April 6: New York, N.Y. Irving Plaza
April 7: State College, Pa. Mezzanine
April 8: Baltimore, Md. Rams Head Live
April 9: Wilmington N.C. The Rox
April 10: Charlotte, N.C. Amos Southend
April 11: Charleston, S.C. The Music Farm
April 13: Athens, Ga. 40 Watt Club
April 14: Atlanta, Ga. Masquerade
April 15: Orlando, Fla. Firestone
April 16: Los Angeles, Calif. Gibson Amphitheatre
April 20: New Orleans, La. HOB
April 21: Dallas, Texas HOB
April 22: Houston, Texas HOB
April 23: San Antonio, Texas Scoutbar
April 24: Austin, Texas Emo's
April 26: Tulsa, Okla. Cain's Ballroom
April 27: Colombia, Mo. The Blue Note
April 28: Council Bluffs, Iowa Harrah's
April 29: Kansas City, Kan. Harrah's
April 30: Denver, Colo. Gothic Theatre (Englewood)
May 1: Albuquerque, N.M. Sunshine Theatre
May 2: Phoenix, Ariz. Celebrity Theatre
May 3: Tuscon, Ariz. Rialto Theatre
allhiphop.com
KRS Heading To Connecticut For 2010 International Hip-Hop Fest
By Mike Winslow
(AllHipHop News) South Bronx pioneer KRS-One is scheduled to headline the 2010 International Hip-Hop Festival at Trinity College next month in Connecticut.
The student created festival, which is free and open to the public, is a weekend celebration of Hip-Hop culture throughout the world.
Academic panels, movie screenings, performances, graffiti art and break dancing will all be featured during the International Hip-Hop Festival.
Other rappers/ activists slated to attend include Toni Blackman, former Cultural Ambassador for the U.S. State Department, beat boxer Jaro Cossiga (Czech Republic), Palestinian Hip-Hop group DAM, husband and wife duo The reMINDers and others.
Local graffiti artists will be producing murals during the festival, which will also feature a 2-on-2 international break dance battle judged by Trac2, with a $1500 grand prize.
The Trinity International Hip-Hop Festival takes place April 10th and 11th at Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut.
allhiphop.com
Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival Set For July
By Mike Winslow
(AllHipHop News) Brooklyn Bodega, producers of the Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival (BHF) have announced the 2010 event will take place this July.
Today (March 18), organizers announced that this year's BHF event will span an entire week, featuring panels, films, theater and independent performances by national and international Hip-Hop talent.
According to West Jackson, the executive director of the BHF, this year's event will return to the Brooklyn waterfront.
"We have been fortunate enough to host the Festival along the beautiful Brooklyn coast line since our second year [2006],” Jackson told AllHipHop.com. “When the word came down that our home, Empire Fulton Ferry State Park was being closed for renovation we began to work closely with Regina Meyer and the good people at The Brooklyn Bridge Development Corporation. I am excited that not only are we returning to the Tobacco Warehouse for our Main Day, July 10th but have also added Brooklyn Bridge Plaza and New Dock Street. This increased space will allow us to produce two separate stages as well as build a large marketplace for our vendors."
The dates for the 2010 Brooklyn hip hop Festival are July 5th- 11th, 2010.
More details and performers will be announced over the coming months.
A tentative schedule is listed below:
(MON. 7/5) Show and Prove - Showcase of independent local, national and international talent. Public Assembly, 70 North 6th Street, Williamsburg, Brooklyn. · Bodega Education Initiative
(TUES. 7/6) - Day of panel discussions and seminars. · Hip-Hop Theater
(WED. 7/7) · Classic Hip-Hop Film Night
(THURS. 7/8) - Screening of classic Hip-Hop film "Beat Street" as well as shorts from local filmmakers. · Kickoff Party
(FRI. 7/9) - Party to formally welcome Festival goers, past and current artists and community leaders. · Performance Day
(SAT. 7/10) - Culmination of the 2010 programming. Brooklyn Bridge Plaza, New Dock Street and The Tobacco Warehouse - DUMBO, Brooklyn. · Family Day
(SUN. 7/11) - Closing BHF event is a classically, Brooklyn Block party, which focuses on improving the lives of our youth.
allhiphop.com
(AllHipHop News) Brooklyn Bodega, producers of the Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival (BHF) have announced the 2010 event will take place this July.
Today (March 18), organizers announced that this year's BHF event will span an entire week, featuring panels, films, theater and independent performances by national and international Hip-Hop talent.
According to West Jackson, the executive director of the BHF, this year's event will return to the Brooklyn waterfront.
"We have been fortunate enough to host the Festival along the beautiful Brooklyn coast line since our second year [2006],” Jackson told AllHipHop.com. “When the word came down that our home, Empire Fulton Ferry State Park was being closed for renovation we began to work closely with Regina Meyer and the good people at The Brooklyn Bridge Development Corporation. I am excited that not only are we returning to the Tobacco Warehouse for our Main Day, July 10th but have also added Brooklyn Bridge Plaza and New Dock Street. This increased space will allow us to produce two separate stages as well as build a large marketplace for our vendors."
The dates for the 2010 Brooklyn hip hop Festival are July 5th- 11th, 2010.
More details and performers will be announced over the coming months.
A tentative schedule is listed below:
(MON. 7/5) Show and Prove - Showcase of independent local, national and international talent. Public Assembly, 70 North 6th Street, Williamsburg, Brooklyn. · Bodega Education Initiative
(TUES. 7/6) - Day of panel discussions and seminars. · Hip-Hop Theater
(WED. 7/7) · Classic Hip-Hop Film Night
(THURS. 7/8) - Screening of classic Hip-Hop film "Beat Street" as well as shorts from local filmmakers. · Kickoff Party
(FRI. 7/9) - Party to formally welcome Festival goers, past and current artists and community leaders. · Performance Day
(SAT. 7/10) - Culmination of the 2010 programming. Brooklyn Bridge Plaza, New Dock Street and The Tobacco Warehouse - DUMBO, Brooklyn. · Family Day
(SUN. 7/11) - Closing BHF event is a classically, Brooklyn Block party, which focuses on improving the lives of our youth.
allhiphop.com
Pharoahe Monch Joins Duck Down for New Album W.A.R
By Ismael AbduSalaam
(AllHipHop News) AllHipHop.com has confirmed that Pharoahe Monch’s upcoming third solo LP W.A.R. (We Are Renegades) has found a home with Duck Down Records.
Originally, Monch announced last September that he would be leaving his previous label SRC to distribute W.A.R. through his own imprint, W.A.R. Media.
At the time, he cited the overall decline of the music industry as reason to forego a major label deal.
But with premier indie label Duck Down, Monch feels he has secured the distribution and creative control needed to make W.A.R. a success.
As heard on his last LP Desire (2007), Monch explained he will continue exploring spiritual elements while maintaining the high level lyricism his fans have come to expect since his 1991 debut with Organized Konfusion.
"I'm incredibly excited about my upcoming release W.A.R. (We Are Renegades) and my new partnership between my company W.A.R. Media, LLC, and Duck Down Music,” Monch told AllHipHop.com. “This album deals with conflicts and resolutions of the spirit, the soul, the government, and the industry among other things.”
Regarding guest spots and production, Pharoahe Monch revealed a balanced mix of past collaborators and new affiliates.
“Thus far it features Living Colour guitarist Vernon Reid, Jean Grae, Styles P, Phonte, Black Thought, with more to come,” he stated. “It also features production from M-Phazes, Marco Polo, Mike Low, Fatin, Lee Stone, Exile and others to be announced. I am working diligently to finish the work for a summer release and I am honored to join forces with the Duck Down family during their 15 year anniversary."
Tomorrow (March 19), fans in Austin, Texas can see Monch as a part of Duck Down’s 15 Year Anniversary Concert at the SXSW Showcase, located at The Scoot Inn on East 4th Street.
Doors open at 8PM.
Pharoahe Monch’s W.A.R. is targeted for a summer release.
Listed below are his upcoming April tour dates with Slaughterhouse.
April 3 Saint John, NB Evolution Nightclub
April 4 St. John's, NF Club One
April 5 Halifax, NS Paragone Theatre
April 7 Ottawa, ON Ritual Nightclub
April 8 Toronto, ON Venue TBC
April 9 Cornwall, ON Rangatangs Nightclub
April 10 Montreal, QC Telus Theatre
April 12 Thunder Bay, ON Roxys Nightclub
April 13 Winnipeg, MB Pyramid Cabaret
April 14 Saskatoon, SK Odeon Events Centre
April 15 Calgary, AB The Whiskey Nightclub
April 16 Edmonton, AB Starlite Room
April 17 Lethbridge, AB Venue TBC
April 18 Nelson, BC Spirit Bar
April 21 Victoria, BC Element
April 22 Vancouver, BC Venue TBC
allhiphop.com
(AllHipHop News) AllHipHop.com has confirmed that Pharoahe Monch’s upcoming third solo LP W.A.R. (We Are Renegades) has found a home with Duck Down Records.
Originally, Monch announced last September that he would be leaving his previous label SRC to distribute W.A.R. through his own imprint, W.A.R. Media.
At the time, he cited the overall decline of the music industry as reason to forego a major label deal.
But with premier indie label Duck Down, Monch feels he has secured the distribution and creative control needed to make W.A.R. a success.
As heard on his last LP Desire (2007), Monch explained he will continue exploring spiritual elements while maintaining the high level lyricism his fans have come to expect since his 1991 debut with Organized Konfusion.
"I'm incredibly excited about my upcoming release W.A.R. (We Are Renegades) and my new partnership between my company W.A.R. Media, LLC, and Duck Down Music,” Monch told AllHipHop.com. “This album deals with conflicts and resolutions of the spirit, the soul, the government, and the industry among other things.”
Regarding guest spots and production, Pharoahe Monch revealed a balanced mix of past collaborators and new affiliates.
“Thus far it features Living Colour guitarist Vernon Reid, Jean Grae, Styles P, Phonte, Black Thought, with more to come,” he stated. “It also features production from M-Phazes, Marco Polo, Mike Low, Fatin, Lee Stone, Exile and others to be announced. I am working diligently to finish the work for a summer release and I am honored to join forces with the Duck Down family during their 15 year anniversary."
Tomorrow (March 19), fans in Austin, Texas can see Monch as a part of Duck Down’s 15 Year Anniversary Concert at the SXSW Showcase, located at The Scoot Inn on East 4th Street.
Doors open at 8PM.
Pharoahe Monch’s W.A.R. is targeted for a summer release.
Listed below are his upcoming April tour dates with Slaughterhouse.
April 3 Saint John, NB Evolution Nightclub
April 4 St. John's, NF Club One
April 5 Halifax, NS Paragone Theatre
April 7 Ottawa, ON Ritual Nightclub
April 8 Toronto, ON Venue TBC
April 9 Cornwall, ON Rangatangs Nightclub
April 10 Montreal, QC Telus Theatre
April 12 Thunder Bay, ON Roxys Nightclub
April 13 Winnipeg, MB Pyramid Cabaret
April 14 Saskatoon, SK Odeon Events Centre
April 15 Calgary, AB The Whiskey Nightclub
April 16 Edmonton, AB Starlite Room
April 17 Lethbridge, AB Venue TBC
April 18 Nelson, BC Spirit Bar
April 21 Victoria, BC Element
April 22 Vancouver, BC Venue TBC
allhiphop.com
Common Headlines 11th Annual African-American Music Fes
By Roman Wolfe
(AllHipHop News) Chicago rapper Common will hit the stage at Cal State Northridge next week during the 11th Annual African-American Music Festival.
The festival takes place from March 22nd -27th and is free and open to the public.
The annual event is geared towards middle and high school students and allows the children to learn about the important contributions African-Americans have played in the development of popular music throughout the world.
The six-day event features musical workshops, a networking forum, business educational panels and performances by Common and renowned jazz musician Washington Rucker.
"The festival has been an important addition to CSUN’s community outreach in promoting music education regionally," said Pan-African studies professor Deborah Broadous.
Broadous is the advisor of the African-American Music Association (A2MA), the student group that is organizing the event.
"We believe in the power of mentorship and exposing these children to the most successful musicians and executives in the business. We hope to encourage these young people to pursue their dreams,” Broadous added.
Common is expected to appear with former Ernie Singleton, former VP of Urban for MCA, on Thursday (March 25th) at 4:00 PM during the Music Business College Tour and Student Showcase.
The festival will culminate on March 27th with a gospel performance and reception at Calvary Baptist Church of Pacoima.
allhiphop.com
Nas, Damian Marley's Distant Relatives Set For May; Tracklisting Revealed
By Roman Wolfe
(AllHipHop News) Nas and Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley’s highly anticipated album Distant Relatives will land in stores on Tuesday, May 18th, label representatives confirmed today (March 16th).
The concept album traces Hip-Hop’s roots in Africa and how it was transported to the American colonies and the Caribbean during slavery, until it was finally exported to the parks and recreational centers in New York city.
"Damian and Nas have made a groundbreaking album that combines the depth and vision of these two artists with a seminal musical and cultural thread of multiple generations," stated Monte Lipman, President and CEO of Universal Republic Records. "We're thrilled to play a role on what's certain to be another pivotal album for both artists and one of the more unique collaborative efforts in recent years."
The 14-track-effort was produced by Damian Marley and features guest appearances by Lil Wayne, K’Naan, Joss Stone, Stephen Marley and Dennis Brown.
Fans will also receive a documentary film with the purchase of Distant Relatives, which also contains performances and public discussions, including portions of an event held with National Geographic Live in Washington, D.C. last December.
Distant Relatives is in stores May 18th. The track listing is below:
1. As We Enter
2. Tribal War (featuring K'NAAN)
3. Strong Will Continue
4. Leaders (featuring Stephen Marley)
5. Wisdom
6. Count Your Blessings
7. Dispear
8. The Promised Land (featuring Dennis Brown)
9. In His Own Words (featuring Stephen Marley)
10. Nah Mean
11. Friends
12. My Generation (featuring Lil Wayne and Joss Stone)
13. Africa Must Wake Up (featuring K'NAAN)
allhiphop.com
(AllHipHop News) Nas and Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley’s highly anticipated album Distant Relatives will land in stores on Tuesday, May 18th, label representatives confirmed today (March 16th).
The concept album traces Hip-Hop’s roots in Africa and how it was transported to the American colonies and the Caribbean during slavery, until it was finally exported to the parks and recreational centers in New York city.
"Damian and Nas have made a groundbreaking album that combines the depth and vision of these two artists with a seminal musical and cultural thread of multiple generations," stated Monte Lipman, President and CEO of Universal Republic Records. "We're thrilled to play a role on what's certain to be another pivotal album for both artists and one of the more unique collaborative efforts in recent years."
The 14-track-effort was produced by Damian Marley and features guest appearances by Lil Wayne, K’Naan, Joss Stone, Stephen Marley and Dennis Brown.
Fans will also receive a documentary film with the purchase of Distant Relatives, which also contains performances and public discussions, including portions of an event held with National Geographic Live in Washington, D.C. last December.
Distant Relatives is in stores May 18th. The track listing is below:
1. As We Enter
2. Tribal War (featuring K'NAAN)
3. Strong Will Continue
4. Leaders (featuring Stephen Marley)
5. Wisdom
6. Count Your Blessings
7. Dispear
8. The Promised Land (featuring Dennis Brown)
9. In His Own Words (featuring Stephen Marley)
10. Nah Mean
11. Friends
12. My Generation (featuring Lil Wayne and Joss Stone)
13. Africa Must Wake Up (featuring K'NAAN)
allhiphop.com
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Wu-Tang Management Says They Seek "Next 9 Generals"
by Edwin Ortiz
John “Mook” Gibbons, founder of Wu-Tang Management, has started a new campaign to find up-and-coming rappers with “The Next 9 Generals” competition.
Centered around the premise of a “new school” Wu-Tang squad, the competition looks for rappers between the ages of 18-33 who exemplify the Wu-Tang spirit through lyrics. Online applicants are asked to rhyme over two Wu-Tang instrumentals (“Protect Ya Neck” and “Wu-Tang Clan Ain’t Nuthing ta Fuck Wit”) to show their lyrical abilities.
Along with the online applicants, Gibbons will also be holding several auditions across the country, including New York, Philadelphia, Miami, and Los Angeles. Judges for the auditions are Gibbons, SRC’s Steve Rifkind, Power 105 radio personality Steph Lova and Wu-Tang member U-God.
The nine winners of the competition will reportedly secure “major recording deal(s), music videos, world wide exposure, international tours, and most importantly the right to bear the Wu-Tang ‘W’.”
Registration is available online here. The early registration deadline is March 31.
John “Mook” Gibbons, founder of Wu-Tang Management, has started a new campaign to find up-and-coming rappers with “The Next 9 Generals” competition.
Centered around the premise of a “new school” Wu-Tang squad, the competition looks for rappers between the ages of 18-33 who exemplify the Wu-Tang spirit through lyrics. Online applicants are asked to rhyme over two Wu-Tang instrumentals (“Protect Ya Neck” and “Wu-Tang Clan Ain’t Nuthing ta Fuck Wit”) to show their lyrical abilities.
Along with the online applicants, Gibbons will also be holding several auditions across the country, including New York, Philadelphia, Miami, and Los Angeles. Judges for the auditions are Gibbons, SRC’s Steve Rifkind, Power 105 radio personality Steph Lova and Wu-Tang member U-God.
The nine winners of the competition will reportedly secure “major recording deal(s), music videos, world wide exposure, international tours, and most importantly the right to bear the Wu-Tang ‘W’.”
Registration is available online here. The early registration deadline is March 31.
Kool G Rap Writes Foreward To New Book On Rapping
by Jake Paine
Author Paul Edwards' book How To Rap: The Art & Science of the Hip-Hop MC has reached book stores
. Not just any other scholarly book on one of the pillars of Hip Hop, Edwards' book features a Foreward by none other than legendary emcee Kool G Rap.
This book breaks down the emcee artform into five sections: Content, Flow, Writing and Delivery with various sub-sections. In addition, Edwards' work features 104 interviews with emcees ranging from E-40 to Hell Rell, 2Mex to Royce Da 5'9".
Published in December of 2009, this is Edwards' first book.
hiphopdx.com
Author Paul Edwards' book How To Rap: The Art & Science of the Hip-Hop MC has reached book stores
. Not just any other scholarly book on one of the pillars of Hip Hop, Edwards' book features a Foreward by none other than legendary emcee Kool G Rap.
This book breaks down the emcee artform into five sections: Content, Flow, Writing and Delivery with various sub-sections. In addition, Edwards' work features 104 interviews with emcees ranging from E-40 to Hell Rell, 2Mex to Royce Da 5'9".
Published in December of 2009, this is Edwards' first book.
hiphopdx.com
Beastie Boys' MCA Speaks On Cancer, New Album
by Andres Tardio
Adam Yauch of The Beastie Boys is feeling "better" as he recovers from treatment for cancer. Last year, the group announced that they would postpone the release of their forthcoming album, Hot Sauce Committee Part 1, due to Yauch's health concerns.
Recently, Yauch spoke to Entertainment Weekly about his current status, adding that he feels "better."
"I feel better. It was touch and go there for a while, but I am finally getting my energy back.”
Hot Sauce was meant to be released in September of '09, but fans might be able to get their copies this September instead.
“It was really disappointing to have to hold the record and postpone the tour, but doctor’s orders. We may or may not [release the album] depending on how my health is come September. We want to but we have to play it by ear.”
“I was just talking to Adam [Horovitz] and Mike [D] today on the phone and we were talking about working on it a bit. We finished the record over a year ago, so we want to take a look at it and re-evaluate and make sure it is what we want to put out there and that we are still happy with it. I don’t think we will change it up too much.”
hiphopdx.com
Adam Yauch of The Beastie Boys is feeling "better" as he recovers from treatment for cancer. Last year, the group announced that they would postpone the release of their forthcoming album, Hot Sauce Committee Part 1, due to Yauch's health concerns.
Recently, Yauch spoke to Entertainment Weekly about his current status, adding that he feels "better."
"I feel better. It was touch and go there for a while, but I am finally getting my energy back.”
Hot Sauce was meant to be released in September of '09, but fans might be able to get their copies this September instead.
“It was really disappointing to have to hold the record and postpone the tour, but doctor’s orders. We may or may not [release the album] depending on how my health is come September. We want to but we have to play it by ear.”
“I was just talking to Adam [Horovitz] and Mike [D] today on the phone and we were talking about working on it a bit. We finished the record over a year ago, so we want to take a look at it and re-evaluate and make sure it is what we want to put out there and that we are still happy with it. I don’t think we will change it up too much.”
hiphopdx.com
Crooked I & Royce Da 5'9" Share The Stage For Two Nights
by Jake Paine
Crooked I and Royce Da 5'9" made an acclaimed album together (with Joe Budden and Joell Ortiz) in Slaughterhouse last year. The Long Beach and Detroit emcees are presently in the east coast, doing spot dates together.
Tonight the duo will rock the sacred stage at SOB's. While fans may count on guest appearances, Crooked I did tell DX the following,"I’m excited to come out to New York on March 9th in the memory of the Notorious B.I.G and tearing SOB's down to the ground."
Royce Da 5'9" added, "New York is like my second home so to be able to play SOB's on such a historic night is crazy for me. I look forward to killing it."
As Crooked I said, the performance comes on the 13th anniversary of Notorious B.I.G.'s tragic passing.
New England Rap fans can expect the duo on March 13th at Tommy's Lounge in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.
hiphopdx.com
DJ J. Period & Ralph McDaniels Craft March 9th Biggie Tribute Series
by DX Staff
On Tuesday March 9, 2010, J.Period and Video Music Box
creator “Uncle” Ralph McDaniels bring Biggie back to life with the March 9: Video Remix Collection—a collection of exclusive Notorious B.I.G. remixes set to classic videos, in honor of the 13th Anniversary of B.I.G.’s untimely passing. “Flava in Ya Ear (March 9 Video Remix)” marks the first release, a club-shattering blend of old and new that begs the question: “What would Hip Hop be like if B.I.G. were still alive?” More information is available at www.jperiod.com/march9.
DJ Premier Speaks on Guru, Clarifies Previous Alleged Statements
By: Ismael AbduSalaam
After several back and forth statements from Solar and the Elam family, DJ Premier recently revealed his feelings regarding his old partner Guru and the controversy surrounding him.
On his HeadQCourterz radio show last night (March 5), Premier advised that he had previously made no official statements on Guru’s situation, despite numerous quotes over the past week carrying his name.
“First of all anyone that’s been seeing any statements from me, it’s all false,” Premier explained. “If it wasn’t told to someone directly, it’s not coming from me. I have never made a statement until today, and I will not make a statement until all the facts are given from the proper people. And the proper people are not giving the facts, so there’s nothing to say until we get that.”
Producer Solar broke the news on Tuesday (March 2) that his rhyme partner Guru (Keith Elam) had successful surgery, and was expected to make a complete recovery from a massive heart attack.
A statement purported to be from Guru himself soon followed, stating that Solar is “the only person who has accurate info on my situation.”
On Thursday (March 4), Guru’s nephew Justin Nicholas-Elam Ruff accused Solar of lying about Guru’s present condition, and using legal means to prevent the rapper’s family from seeing him.
That allegation was flatly denied by Solar the following day, who told AllHipHop.com that Guru’s brother, sister, and niece have been visiting him regularly.
“Guru's family dynamic and who he wants to look out for his interests is Guru's business and best left to Guru to discuss. I will state that Guru wanted this matter to be kept private to protect his loved ones and fans from this ordeal and from it becoming a circus, which it is becoming.”
DJ Premier did not address any of Solar’s statements directly, but made it clear his allegiance was with Guru’s nephew, whom he praised for speaking out about the situation.
“Shout out to Justin Ruff, a true soldier and a warrior that took on his own initiative to truly let motherfuckers know evil lurks in Guru’s life still, and that s**twill cease eventually. ‘Cause God don’t like ugly like they say, and love always conquers the devil.”
The legendary producer also added that his only concern is seeing his former collaborator back on his feet and healthy.
“It’s not about me it’s him, and the Gangstarr legacy,” he said. “Without him there’s no me, and without me there’s no him. Again, Guru we love you my G, stay strong my dude.”
At press time, Guru has released no further personal statements since Wednesday.
allhiphop.com
After several back and forth statements from Solar and the Elam family, DJ Premier recently revealed his feelings regarding his old partner Guru and the controversy surrounding him.
On his HeadQCourterz radio show last night (March 5), Premier advised that he had previously made no official statements on Guru’s situation, despite numerous quotes over the past week carrying his name.
“First of all anyone that’s been seeing any statements from me, it’s all false,” Premier explained. “If it wasn’t told to someone directly, it’s not coming from me. I have never made a statement until today, and I will not make a statement until all the facts are given from the proper people. And the proper people are not giving the facts, so there’s nothing to say until we get that.”
Producer Solar broke the news on Tuesday (March 2) that his rhyme partner Guru (Keith Elam) had successful surgery, and was expected to make a complete recovery from a massive heart attack.
A statement purported to be from Guru himself soon followed, stating that Solar is “the only person who has accurate info on my situation.”
On Thursday (March 4), Guru’s nephew Justin Nicholas-Elam Ruff accused Solar of lying about Guru’s present condition, and using legal means to prevent the rapper’s family from seeing him.
That allegation was flatly denied by Solar the following day, who told AllHipHop.com that Guru’s brother, sister, and niece have been visiting him regularly.
“Guru's family dynamic and who he wants to look out for his interests is Guru's business and best left to Guru to discuss. I will state that Guru wanted this matter to be kept private to protect his loved ones and fans from this ordeal and from it becoming a circus, which it is becoming.”
DJ Premier did not address any of Solar’s statements directly, but made it clear his allegiance was with Guru’s nephew, whom he praised for speaking out about the situation.
“Shout out to Justin Ruff, a true soldier and a warrior that took on his own initiative to truly let motherfuckers know evil lurks in Guru’s life still, and that s**twill cease eventually. ‘Cause God don’t like ugly like they say, and love always conquers the devil.”
The legendary producer also added that his only concern is seeing his former collaborator back on his feet and healthy.
“It’s not about me it’s him, and the Gangstarr legacy,” he said. “Without him there’s no me, and without me there’s no him. Again, Guru we love you my G, stay strong my dude.”
At press time, Guru has released no further personal statements since Wednesday.
allhiphop.com
Stat Quo on 'Statlanta,' Eminem, Dr. Dre & 'Detox'
By DJ Jake Crates
(AllHipHop News) After years of delay as an artist on Aftermath/Interscope Records, Atlanta rapper Stat Quo is finally on the verge of releasing his highly anticipated album Statlanta.
The album, which is slated for May 4th, will be released on Sha Money XL’s Dream Big Ventures, through digital distributor, The Orchard.
Stat Quo remained tight lipped on the details about the album, but he did disclose the release will feature 12 tracks.
“For this album I’m not telling anyone anything or anything about who is on it because I feel a lot of artists always tell who is going to be on a record and then it takes some of the mystery away,” Stat Quo told AllHipHop.com. “So I would rather just wait and have you get the album and then you can see what’s going on with it.“
Stat has released the first single off the album titled “Success (Back To You),” which also has an accompanying video.
“Yea it is the first single off the album. A lot of people would say that it is not a traditional single, because its not targeted towards radio,” Stat Quo told AllHipHop.com. “I just want to make good music and not worry about BDS [radio spin tracking service].”
The video “Success (Back To You)” features Stat going through various situations that he has been through, in an attempt to become successful.
“When I heard the beat and chorus, when you hear it, you may think that I am talking about a woman, but it really I am talking about my relationship with success,” he told AllHipHop.com. “The video takes three aspects of my life, like working a corporate job. You got another situation, me selling CDs, what I believe in. And another situation is me graduating from school and being successful.”
While many people may not know, Stat is one of many rappers that has earned his college degree.
In the early 2000’s Stat finished received his degree from the University of Florida with a double major in business and economics.
“Graduating in business and economics, it allows me to step outside of me just being an artist. I had to look at the business side of things. Hundreds thousands of people at those companies depend on Dr. Dre and Eminem’s album sales, so I can understand why it was so pertinent to get those albums out when they did. I didn’t understand at the time, but now I understand”
Finally Stat Quo gave an update on working with Dr. Dre on Detox and his relationship with Eminem.
With respect to working with Eminem and Dre, Stat said, “I enjoyed working with them, and I enjoy working with them. I learned so much from both of them on how to be a better MC and person, and I continue to learn from them. I’m not going to say me and Em talk on the phone, or that we have had contact, it’s been a while, but at the end of the day I still got love for him and that’s never going to change. When it comes down to Dre, what can I say? Dude is the end all and be all as my mentor, he held me down and continues to.”
Stat confirmed that he will be a part of Detox, although the album has no set release date as of press time.
“On his record I feel so important, his album is just so important to Hip-Hop. I am blessed to have an opportunity to be in the situation to work on it. S**t is going to be a classic from beginning to end,” Stat Quo told AllHipHop.com. Stat Quo will next be performing at SXSW in Austin, Texas later this month.
allhiphop.com
(AllHipHop News) After years of delay as an artist on Aftermath/Interscope Records, Atlanta rapper Stat Quo is finally on the verge of releasing his highly anticipated album Statlanta.
The album, which is slated for May 4th, will be released on Sha Money XL’s Dream Big Ventures, through digital distributor, The Orchard.
Stat Quo remained tight lipped on the details about the album, but he did disclose the release will feature 12 tracks.
“For this album I’m not telling anyone anything or anything about who is on it because I feel a lot of artists always tell who is going to be on a record and then it takes some of the mystery away,” Stat Quo told AllHipHop.com. “So I would rather just wait and have you get the album and then you can see what’s going on with it.“
Stat has released the first single off the album titled “Success (Back To You),” which also has an accompanying video.
“Yea it is the first single off the album. A lot of people would say that it is not a traditional single, because its not targeted towards radio,” Stat Quo told AllHipHop.com. “I just want to make good music and not worry about BDS [radio spin tracking service].”
The video “Success (Back To You)” features Stat going through various situations that he has been through, in an attempt to become successful.
“When I heard the beat and chorus, when you hear it, you may think that I am talking about a woman, but it really I am talking about my relationship with success,” he told AllHipHop.com. “The video takes three aspects of my life, like working a corporate job. You got another situation, me selling CDs, what I believe in. And another situation is me graduating from school and being successful.”
While many people may not know, Stat is one of many rappers that has earned his college degree.
In the early 2000’s Stat finished received his degree from the University of Florida with a double major in business and economics.
“Graduating in business and economics, it allows me to step outside of me just being an artist. I had to look at the business side of things. Hundreds thousands of people at those companies depend on Dr. Dre and Eminem’s album sales, so I can understand why it was so pertinent to get those albums out when they did. I didn’t understand at the time, but now I understand”
Finally Stat Quo gave an update on working with Dr. Dre on Detox and his relationship with Eminem.
With respect to working with Eminem and Dre, Stat said, “I enjoyed working with them, and I enjoy working with them. I learned so much from both of them on how to be a better MC and person, and I continue to learn from them. I’m not going to say me and Em talk on the phone, or that we have had contact, it’s been a while, but at the end of the day I still got love for him and that’s never going to change. When it comes down to Dre, what can I say? Dude is the end all and be all as my mentor, he held me down and continues to.”
Stat confirmed that he will be a part of Detox, although the album has no set release date as of press time.
“On his record I feel so important, his album is just so important to Hip-Hop. I am blessed to have an opportunity to be in the situation to work on it. S**t is going to be a classic from beginning to end,” Stat Quo told AllHipHop.com. Stat Quo will next be performing at SXSW in Austin, Texas later this month.
allhiphop.com
Teen First Person To Be Arrested For Listening To Rap In Australia
By Roman Wolfe
(AllHipHop News) A 19-year-old teen will test Australia’s laws as the first person to be charged with offensive behavior, for listening to rap music.
Nathan Michael Wilkie was charged with offensive behavior as he waited in his car listening to Australian rapper Kid Selzy, while his mother was grocery shopping.
Police heard Wilkie listening to an explicative filled song, which they deemed offensive and derogatory towards women.
The Herald Sun reports that the case will go to trial in June, where Wilkie is expected to plead not guilty to the offense.
Kid Selzy himself plans to attend the trial, after Wilkie’s mother posted a message on his Myspace page.
"Unfortunately he saw me (his mum) coming out of the local supermarket with shopping bags and left his car running and music playing to help me with my bags and the local cops pulled in, Mrs. Wilkie wrote.
Kid Selzy told The Sun the whole ordeal was a waste of tax dollars.
“From what I believe, everyone has the right to their own opinion. I have lost two of my best mates in the last couple of years in tragic circumstances and I feel that listening to his music relates to life," Kid Selzy said.
Kid Selzy’s album The Creepshow will be played during the trial, which is slated for June 11th.
allhiphop.com
(AllHipHop News) A 19-year-old teen will test Australia’s laws as the first person to be charged with offensive behavior, for listening to rap music.
Nathan Michael Wilkie was charged with offensive behavior as he waited in his car listening to Australian rapper Kid Selzy, while his mother was grocery shopping.
Police heard Wilkie listening to an explicative filled song, which they deemed offensive and derogatory towards women.
The Herald Sun reports that the case will go to trial in June, where Wilkie is expected to plead not guilty to the offense.
Kid Selzy himself plans to attend the trial, after Wilkie’s mother posted a message on his Myspace page.
"Unfortunately he saw me (his mum) coming out of the local supermarket with shopping bags and left his car running and music playing to help me with my bags and the local cops pulled in, Mrs. Wilkie wrote.
Kid Selzy told The Sun the whole ordeal was a waste of tax dollars.
“From what I believe, everyone has the right to their own opinion. I have lost two of my best mates in the last couple of years in tragic circumstances and I feel that listening to his music relates to life," Kid Selzy said.
Kid Selzy’s album The Creepshow will be played during the trial, which is slated for June 11th.
allhiphop.com
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Eminem Producer Doc Ish Readies "First Treatment"
by Jake Paine
Doc Ish made national noise last year when he co-produced Relapse lead single "We Made You." The Hartford, Connecticuit producer told HipHopDX that his relationship with D12's Bizarre led to a beat initially intended for the quirky Detroit emcee going to Hip Hop's star of stars.
After some additional production came courtesy of Dr. Dre and his Aftermath production camp, Doc Ish said that the timing was ideal to release a project that he'd long been crafting. May 11 will see Doc Ish Presents: The First Treatment.
Although Eminem is absent, the work does include iconic emcees such as KRS-One, Kool G Rap and Bun. Members of Slaughterhouse, Wu-Tang Clan and Boot Camp Clik also appear. A new Jay Electronica record, "She Did It Again" featuring Crooked I and Sean Price also appears.
The tracklisting and audio is below:
1. Hi Kids (feat. Joell Ortiz)
2. No Goodbye’s (feat. Apollo Swyf & Burroughs)
3. Animal Grammar (feat. KRS-ONE)
4. She Did It Again (feat. Crooked I, Sean Price & Jay Electronica)
5. These Streets (feat. Max B, Red Café & Quan)
6. Cut My Throat (feat. Ransom, Quan, Saigon & Inspectah Deck)
7. Who You Are (feat. AZ & Charmange)
8. Is It A Dream (feat. Joe Budden, Talib Kweli & Bun B)
9. Open Your Eyez (feat. Termanalogy & Hectic)
10. Stalker (feat. Bizarre (of D-12))
11. Make Movez (feat. Buckshot, Rock (of Heltah Skeltah) & Colloso)
12. Untitled (feat. Sean Price)
13. Untitled (feat. Nipsey Hussle)
14. War Outside (feat. King Gordy, Kool G Rap & Billy Danze)
15. Skys Are Grey (feat. Quan, Phonte, Oddisee & Nature)
16. You Make Me Stronger (feat. Kool G Rap)
17. I Wanna See The Whole World (feat. The Abnormals)
18. Freestyle (feat. Supernatural)
hiphopdx.com
Doc Ish made national noise last year when he co-produced Relapse lead single "We Made You." The Hartford, Connecticuit producer told HipHopDX that his relationship with D12's Bizarre led to a beat initially intended for the quirky Detroit emcee going to Hip Hop's star of stars.
After some additional production came courtesy of Dr. Dre and his Aftermath production camp, Doc Ish said that the timing was ideal to release a project that he'd long been crafting. May 11 will see Doc Ish Presents: The First Treatment.
Although Eminem is absent, the work does include iconic emcees such as KRS-One, Kool G Rap and Bun. Members of Slaughterhouse, Wu-Tang Clan and Boot Camp Clik also appear. A new Jay Electronica record, "She Did It Again" featuring Crooked I and Sean Price also appears.
The tracklisting and audio is below:
1. Hi Kids (feat. Joell Ortiz)
2. No Goodbye’s (feat. Apollo Swyf & Burroughs)
3. Animal Grammar (feat. KRS-ONE)
4. She Did It Again (feat. Crooked I, Sean Price & Jay Electronica)
5. These Streets (feat. Max B, Red Café & Quan)
6. Cut My Throat (feat. Ransom, Quan, Saigon & Inspectah Deck)
7. Who You Are (feat. AZ & Charmange)
8. Is It A Dream (feat. Joe Budden, Talib Kweli & Bun B)
9. Open Your Eyez (feat. Termanalogy & Hectic)
10. Stalker (feat. Bizarre (of D-12))
11. Make Movez (feat. Buckshot, Rock (of Heltah Skeltah) & Colloso)
12. Untitled (feat. Sean Price)
13. Untitled (feat. Nipsey Hussle)
14. War Outside (feat. King Gordy, Kool G Rap & Billy Danze)
15. Skys Are Grey (feat. Quan, Phonte, Oddisee & Nature)
16. You Make Me Stronger (feat. Kool G Rap)
17. I Wanna See The Whole World (feat. The Abnormals)
18. Freestyle (feat. Supernatural)
hiphopdx.com
Murs & 9th Wonder Release First Single Off "Fornever"
by Andres Tardio
What’s the problem? Basically, that's the question Murs and 9th Wonder are asking and answering with their latest single
. As fans of the duo know, Murs and 9th have been prepping the release of their latest project Fornever for quite some time.
As the March 30th release date draws near, the duo have released their first official track off the album. Enlisting the assistance of Psycho Realm’s Sick Jacken and Uncle Chucc, “The Problem Is… ” marks the return of the emcee/producer combination that had fans celebrating when they released the critically acclaimed 3:16 The 9th Edition back in 2004.
“Why should I conform? Beyond the norm, I exceed the hype / Beyond all the bullshit and the stereotypes.”
The song features lyrics about not conforming and not worrying about the past.“I encourage you to live, put the worst behind / Never worry about the past, it ain’t worth your time.”
In anticipation of the album’s release, the duo have also filmed the Fornever movie, which comes in two parts. Check part 1 below.
hiphopdx.com
Run-DMC Rumored To Reunite At 3rd Annual Roots Picnic
by Andres Tardio
The Roots have cause to celebrate right now. Aside from completing a year of work as the band for Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, fans will be excited to hear that the Roots are actually celebrating the third annual Roots Picnic this year, with many big named guests on the bill.
The event is set to take place at Penn’s Landing in Philadelphia. This is the third year of the Picnic, which has seen acts like Kid Cudi, Asher Roth, TV On the Radio and Public Enemy in the past. This year, more guests are set to take the stage in what Questo has said will undoubtedly “top” last year’s show.
Vampire Weekend, The Clipse, Pattern is Movement, Mayer Hawthrone, Das Racist and many others are set to perform. The event will also include a performance by Black Thought’s side project The Money Making Jam Boys. Not to be outdone, ?uestlove will also have a side project for the evening as he will team up with DJ Jazzy Jeff.
If that weren’t enough, The Roots will also bring a reunited group to the stage.
“This is a reunion we thought we would never get. We’ve been waiting to make this reunion happen for the longest. It’s so incredible I don’t even want to tell you who it is,” he said before putting on a gold rope chain and a black hat, insinuating that Run and DMC will be present.
?uestlove announced this via TwitVid, a clip that can be seen below.
hiphopdx.com
The Roots have cause to celebrate right now. Aside from completing a year of work as the band for Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, fans will be excited to hear that the Roots are actually celebrating the third annual Roots Picnic this year, with many big named guests on the bill.
The event is set to take place at Penn’s Landing in Philadelphia. This is the third year of the Picnic, which has seen acts like Kid Cudi, Asher Roth, TV On the Radio and Public Enemy in the past. This year, more guests are set to take the stage in what Questo has said will undoubtedly “top” last year’s show.
Vampire Weekend, The Clipse, Pattern is Movement, Mayer Hawthrone, Das Racist and many others are set to perform. The event will also include a performance by Black Thought’s side project The Money Making Jam Boys. Not to be outdone, ?uestlove will also have a side project for the evening as he will team up with DJ Jazzy Jeff.
If that weren’t enough, The Roots will also bring a reunited group to the stage.
“This is a reunion we thought we would never get. We’ve been waiting to make this reunion happen for the longest. It’s so incredible I don’t even want to tell you who it is,” he said before putting on a gold rope chain and a black hat, insinuating that Run and DMC will be present.
?uestlove announced this via TwitVid, a clip that can be seen below.
hiphopdx.com
Guru Issues Statement On Heart Attack
By Nolan Strong and Grouchy Greg Watkins
(AllHipHop News) Revered rapper Guru released a statement to AllHipHop.com today (March 3) as he recovers from surgery after suffering a heart attack over the weekend.
Guru, born Keith Elam, was briefly comatose due to the heart attack. Doctors successfully operated on the 43-year-old MC on Tuesday (March 2).
"I am doing fine and I am recovering! I'm weak though,” Guru told AllHipHop.com in a statement today. “Solar is the only person who has the accurate info on my situation. Any info from anybody else is false! I appreciate your well wishes and all the love!"
Guru and his family are asking for privacy as he recovers and stressed for fans to continue to send prayers, thoughts and love.
His partner Solar echoed Guru’s comments about the need for privacy but told fans the outlook is positive for the rapper.
Additionally, only Solar will have access to Guru and accurate information regarding the status of his health.
"Guru is resting and doing well after his surgery,” Solar told AllHipHop.com. “The doctors say that he will fully recover from his illness. We thank everyone who send prayers our way and we appreciate the outpouring of love from around the world!”
Solar can be reached by contacting a representative for his publicity firm, Yo-Pr.com.
allhiphop.com
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