Monday, August 29, 2011
Jay-Z & Kanye West Facing Lawsuit Over “The Joy” Off ‘Watch The Throne’
We’re now three weeks into Jay-Z and Kanye West’s #1 album Watch The Throne, being out, but not everyone is impressed. Legendary Chicago blues and soul singer Syl Johnson claims that the final song on the deluxe edition of the album, “The Joy,” was not cleared properly though him. We first heard the Pete Rock-produced cut last year during Kanye’s G.O.O.D. Friday series, which uses vocals from Johnson’s 1967 song “Different Strokes.” Apparently, The Numero Group were contacted last summer to use the song for Kanye’s last album, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. When no agreement was reached and the song didn’t make the album, all seemed to be clear until Syl finally heard The Throne’s new project.
Another twist? Syl Johnson is the father of R&B singer Syleena Johnson. A friend of Kanye’s, she was featured on the hit “All Falls Down” off his debut album, College Dropout in 2004.
via NBC Chicago
Another twist? Syl Johnson is the father of R&B singer Syleena Johnson. A friend of Kanye’s, she was featured on the hit “All Falls Down” off his debut album, College Dropout in 2004.
via NBC Chicago
Murs & Ski Beatz Unveil Tracklist For "Love & Rockets, Volume 1: The Transformation"
by Steven J. Horowitz
Murs previously teamed up with 9th Wonder for several full-length LPs, and now, he’s joining forces with producer Ski Beatz for a studio release. The duo recently teamed up on the East Coast for a few weeks to record Love & Rockets, Volume 1: The Transformation, set for release this fall via Dame Dash’s DD172/BLUROC labels.
In conjunction with the album’s release, the West Coast rapper will hit the road on a sixty-date tour alongside Tabi Bonney, McKenzie Eddy, Sean O’Connell and Dash.
Head over to Murs’ Tumblr page to see more pictures from their studio sessions.
[July 14]
UPDATE: Murs and Ski Beatz have revealed the cover art and tracklist for their upcoming collaborative LP, dropping October 11th.
01 Epic Salutations
02 Remember 2 Forget
03 67 Cutlass
04 Eazy-E
05 Hip Hop and Love f. tabi Bonney
06 International
07 S-k-i-b-e-a-t-z f. Locksmith
08 Westside Love
09 Life and Time f. AB-Soul & O.C
10 Reach Hire
11 Dream on feat. Dee-1
12 316 Ways
13 Animal Style
hiphopdx.com
Cecil Otter Explains Conceptualizing The "Wugazi: 13 Chambers" Project, Doomtree's Next Album
by Andres Vasquez
Exclusive: Doomtree's producer/emcee recalls growing up in a home where he had to label his N.W.A. tapes as "Bon Jovi," and how he transitioned into a non-stop touring Hip Hop livelihood.
Beneath the surface, there is always a hopeful spirit that shines bright enough to be seen by many. In the case of the Rap world, independent artists have been carving out niches and names for themselves, without always getting proper support from labels. That has certainly been the case for Doomtree, a collective from Minnesota and beyond, one that has maintained a strong presence in the culture as an independent crew of like-minded artists/musicians.
One of the Doomtree members, Cecil Otter, recently stood out as part of a different project. His work with Swiss Andy has now gained attention for the manner in which they united two different worlds to form Wugazi - 13 Chambers . The Fugazi/Wu-Tang Clan blend set off alarms in the minds of music fans everywhere, an excitement similar to the one caused by Danger Mouse’s Grey Album. Recently, Otter took some time to speak with HipHopDX about his Wugazi work, the next Doomtree album and more.<
to read more go to:
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.16651/title.cecil-otter-explains-conceptualizing-the-wugazi-13-chambers-project-doomtrees-next-album
Exclusive: Doomtree's producer/emcee recalls growing up in a home where he had to label his N.W.A. tapes as "Bon Jovi," and how he transitioned into a non-stop touring Hip Hop livelihood.
Beneath the surface, there is always a hopeful spirit that shines bright enough to be seen by many. In the case of the Rap world, independent artists have been carving out niches and names for themselves, without always getting proper support from labels. That has certainly been the case for Doomtree, a collective from Minnesota and beyond, one that has maintained a strong presence in the culture as an independent crew of like-minded artists/musicians.
One of the Doomtree members, Cecil Otter, recently stood out as part of a different project. His work with Swiss Andy has now gained attention for the manner in which they united two different worlds to form Wugazi - 13 Chambers . The Fugazi/Wu-Tang Clan blend set off alarms in the minds of music fans everywhere, an excitement similar to the one caused by Danger Mouse’s Grey Album. Recently, Otter took some time to speak with HipHopDX about his Wugazi work, the next Doomtree album and more.<
to read more go to:
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.16651/title.cecil-otter-explains-conceptualizing-the-wugazi-13-chambers-project-doomtrees-next-album
Elzhi Speaks On The Legacy Of Slum Village
by Steven J. Horowitz
The former SV member explains that his mission is to "carry the torch" for Baatin and J. Dilla.
Though he parted ways with Slum Village after the release of last year’s Villa Manifesto, Elzhi still supports the legacy of the Detroit, Michigan group. Speaking with GWHH, he explained that he’s got a “crazy amount of love” for the legacy of the collective.
“I got a crazy amount of love for the legacy of Slum Village,” he said. "Like I say, Baatin, J. Dilla, come on man. Just to be a part of that whole equation was just incredible to me. It was amazing. I carry that to this day. I carry that love to this day. I do this for Baatin, I do this for J. Dilla.”
He pointed out how involved in music Dilla and Baatin were, and how he has to “carry that weight” on his back and spread their message.
“JD, he was doing Donuts on his hospital bed, really having love for the music. Baatin, God bless his soul, man. Until his last day on the planet, he was doing music. I feel like I gotta carry that weight and carry that torch for them, and basically excel and get that message out for them. That’s a couple of the reasons why I’m doing this.”
hiphopdx.com
The former SV member explains that his mission is to "carry the torch" for Baatin and J. Dilla.
Though he parted ways with Slum Village after the release of last year’s Villa Manifesto, Elzhi still supports the legacy of the Detroit, Michigan group. Speaking with GWHH, he explained that he’s got a “crazy amount of love” for the legacy of the collective.
“I got a crazy amount of love for the legacy of Slum Village,” he said. "Like I say, Baatin, J. Dilla, come on man. Just to be a part of that whole equation was just incredible to me. It was amazing. I carry that to this day. I carry that love to this day. I do this for Baatin, I do this for J. Dilla.”
He pointed out how involved in music Dilla and Baatin were, and how he has to “carry that weight” on his back and spread their message.
“JD, he was doing Donuts on his hospital bed, really having love for the music. Baatin, God bless his soul, man. Until his last day on the planet, he was doing music. I feel like I gotta carry that weight and carry that torch for them, and basically excel and get that message out for them. That’s a couple of the reasons why I’m doing this.”
eLZhi Interview with Gowhere Hip Hop from Cam Be on Vimeo.
hiphopdx.com
Nicki Minaj Says New Album Will Prominently Feature Alter-Ego Roman Zolanski
by Slava Kuperstein
Nicki says that her next album will "have a lot of Roman on it."
One of the most talked-about tracks on Nicki Minaj's debut album, Pink Friday, was "Roman's Revenge," a Lil' Kim diss that featured Eminem.
After winning the Best Hip Hop Video Moon Man for "Super Bass" at the MTV VMA Awards, the rapper went back to the press room for an interview where she revealed that Roman, the male alter-ego featured on "Roman's Revenge," would be featured significantly on her new album.
“Well, the new album is going to have a lot of Roman on it, and if you’re not familiar with Roman, you will be familiar with him soon,” said Minaj, according to ew.com.
“He’s a boy who lives inside of me,” she said. “I have a lot of surprises I don’t want to give away. Everyone will be more than satisfied with the new album.”
Lupe Fiasco Announces "Generation Laser" Tour Dates
Sep 01 – Spark In The Park – UIC Music Festival – Chicago, IL
Sep 03 – Triad Music Festival @ NewBridge Bank Park – Greensboro, NC
Sep 09 – University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee – Milwaukee, WI
Sep 10 – Kool Haus – Toronto, Canada
Sep 12 – House of Blues – Boston, MA
Sep 15 – MAC at Monmouth University – West Long Branch, NJ
Sep 16 – Merriweather Post Pavilion – Columbia, MD
Sep 17 – the Mann – Philadelphia, PA
Sep 18 – Raleigh Amphitheater – Raleigh, NC
Sep 20 – The Tabernacle – Atlanta, GA
Sep 22 – Auburn Arena – Auburn, AL
Sep 23 – Time Warner Cable Uptown Amphitheater – Charlotte, NC
Sep 24 – St. Augustine Amphitheatre – St Augustine, FL
Sep 25 – Florida International University – Miami, FL
Sep 28 – TBA – Columbus, OH
Sep 29 – TBA – St Louis, MO
Sep 30 – Purdue University – West Lafayette, IN
Oct 02 – University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign – Urbana, IL
Oct 04 – TBA – Dekalb, IL
Oct 05 – TBA – Ames, IA
Oct 06 – The Midland by AMC – Kansas City, MO
Oct 07 – Fillmore Auditorium – Denver, CO
Oct 09 – The Palms – Las Vegas, NV
Oct 10 – Hollywood Palladium – Hollywood, CA
Oct 11 – Fox Theater – Oakland, CA
Oct 22 – TBA – Orlando, FL
Nov 04 – TBA – Evanston, IL
Nov 18 – TBA – Princeton, NJ
Sep 03 – Triad Music Festival @ NewBridge Bank Park – Greensboro, NC
Sep 09 – University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee – Milwaukee, WI
Sep 10 – Kool Haus – Toronto, Canada
Sep 12 – House of Blues – Boston, MA
Sep 15 – MAC at Monmouth University – West Long Branch, NJ
Sep 16 – Merriweather Post Pavilion – Columbia, MD
Sep 17 – the Mann – Philadelphia, PA
Sep 18 – Raleigh Amphitheater – Raleigh, NC
Sep 20 – The Tabernacle – Atlanta, GA
Sep 22 – Auburn Arena – Auburn, AL
Sep 23 – Time Warner Cable Uptown Amphitheater – Charlotte, NC
Sep 24 – St. Augustine Amphitheatre – St Augustine, FL
Sep 25 – Florida International University – Miami, FL
Sep 28 – TBA – Columbus, OH
Sep 29 – TBA – St Louis, MO
Sep 30 – Purdue University – West Lafayette, IN
Oct 02 – University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign – Urbana, IL
Oct 04 – TBA – Dekalb, IL
Oct 05 – TBA – Ames, IA
Oct 06 – The Midland by AMC – Kansas City, MO
Oct 07 – Fillmore Auditorium – Denver, CO
Oct 09 – The Palms – Las Vegas, NV
Oct 10 – Hollywood Palladium – Hollywood, CA
Oct 11 – Fox Theater – Oakland, CA
Oct 22 – TBA – Orlando, FL
Nov 04 – TBA – Evanston, IL
Nov 18 – TBA – Princeton, NJ
Drake Claims He Was Unaware Of Lil Wayne's Jay-Z Shot On "It's Good" At Time Of Recording
by Allen Jacobs
It's not just Jadakiss who was unaware that Lil Wayne would use the three-emcee moment to speak his mind on Jay.
Young Money Records emcee Drake spoke with MTV News last night on the red carpet to the BMI Awards. The Toronto, Ontario native revealed that was unaware of the contents of Lil Wayne's verse on "It's Good" at the time of recording. Drake, along with Jadakiss appeared on the Wayne track, which is included on next week's Tha Carter IV release.
“I just got a beat and did a verse over it,” said Drake, who won awards later in the evening. “Whatever any other individual has to say, you have to ask the man himself. I just did what I know how to do. I just got on a record. I heard the beat, did a verse and heard the final product.”
Home > News > Drake Claims He Was Unaware Of Lil Wayne's Jay-Z Shot On "It's Good" At Time Of Recording
Drake Claims He Was Unaware Of Lil Wayne's Jay-Z Shot On "It's Good" At Time Of Recording
by Allen Jacobs
posted August 27, 2011 at 8:52PM PDT | 105 comments
Drake Claims He Was Unaware Of Lil Wayne's Jay-Z Shot On
It's not just Jadakiss who was unaware that Lil Wayne would use the three-emcee moment to speak his mind on Jay.
Young Money Records emcee Drake spoke with MTV News last night on the red carpet to the BMI Awards. The Toronto, Ontario native revealed that was unaware of the contents of Lil Wayne's verse on "It's Good" at the time of recording. Drake, along with Jadakiss appeared on the Wayne track, which is included on next week's Tha Carter IV release.
“I just got a beat and did a verse over it,” said Drake, who won awards later in the evening. “Whatever any other individual has to say, you have to ask the man himself. I just did what I know how to do. I just got on a record. I heard the beat, did a verse and heard the final product.”
Jay-Z appeared on Drake's studio debut, Thank Me Later, which released last year.
Earlier this week, Jadakiss made a similar statement regarding his previous knowledge of the diss.
It's not just Jadakiss who was unaware that Lil Wayne would use the three-emcee moment to speak his mind on Jay.
Young Money Records emcee Drake spoke with MTV News last night on the red carpet to the BMI Awards. The Toronto, Ontario native revealed that was unaware of the contents of Lil Wayne's verse on "It's Good" at the time of recording. Drake, along with Jadakiss appeared on the Wayne track, which is included on next week's Tha Carter IV release.
“I just got a beat and did a verse over it,” said Drake, who won awards later in the evening. “Whatever any other individual has to say, you have to ask the man himself. I just did what I know how to do. I just got on a record. I heard the beat, did a verse and heard the final product.”
Home > News > Drake Claims He Was Unaware Of Lil Wayne's Jay-Z Shot On "It's Good" At Time Of Recording
Drake Claims He Was Unaware Of Lil Wayne's Jay-Z Shot On "It's Good" At Time Of Recording
by Allen Jacobs
posted August 27, 2011 at 8:52PM PDT | 105 comments
Drake Claims He Was Unaware Of Lil Wayne's Jay-Z Shot On
It's not just Jadakiss who was unaware that Lil Wayne would use the three-emcee moment to speak his mind on Jay.
Young Money Records emcee Drake spoke with MTV News last night on the red carpet to the BMI Awards. The Toronto, Ontario native revealed that was unaware of the contents of Lil Wayne's verse on "It's Good" at the time of recording. Drake, along with Jadakiss appeared on the Wayne track, which is included on next week's Tha Carter IV release.
“I just got a beat and did a verse over it,” said Drake, who won awards later in the evening. “Whatever any other individual has to say, you have to ask the man himself. I just did what I know how to do. I just got on a record. I heard the beat, did a verse and heard the final product.”
Get More: Music News
Jay-Z appeared on Drake's studio debut, Thank Me Later, which released last year.
Earlier this week, Jadakiss made a similar statement regarding his previous knowledge of the diss.
Digable Planets' Doodlebug & D.O.R. Plan Double Album, "Futuristic Sci-Fi"
by Jake Paine
Butterfly isn't the only Planet releasing new solo work, as Moka Only, Donwill and LMNO support an early '90s veteran emcee.
While 1990s Jazz/Hip Hop group the Digable Planets performed several dates this summer, the three individual group founders remain active in releasing new music. As Ish (f/k/a Butterfly) found Top 200 chart success and critical acclaim with Rock group Shabazz Palaces, Doodlebug is planning a double-album, Futuristic Sci-Fi for September 27 release. The project will come on New York independent label, Soulspazm Records.
Futuristic Sci-Fi is a collaborative project with D.O.R., and will feature other veteran emcees such as Moka Only, LMNO and Tanya Morgan's Donwill. The CD version of the release will be a double-disc.
In 2009, Doodlebug released The Intifadah, which featured Tre Hardson from The Pharcyde.
hiphopdx.com
NO I.D. Named Vice President At Def Jam
By Houston Williams
Def Jam has added Grammy award-winning Hip-Hop producer NO I.D. to the roster of executives at the iconic label and brand.
He will now serve as the Vice President, a revelation that was announced at the MTV Video Music Awards last night.
The producer has been instrumental in the careers of Common, Kanye West, Big Sean, J. Cole and others.
"Def Jam is a cultural staple," No I.D. said to Billboard magazine. "It's not just a label, it's part of the culture that I came up in and that I've been involved with for 20 years. It's very important that the next generation of executives grab it by the horns and keep it on track as it grows."
allhiphop.com
Rapper Styles P Dropping Album Called 'Master of Ceremony'
By Jake Crates
Styles P, the Bronx MC, songwriter, CEO and most recently author, is dropping his heavily anticipated Master of Ceremonies, album on eOne Music on October 4th.
SP the Ghost's project will feature D-Block members Sheek Louch and Jadakiss, as well G-Unit's Lloyd Banks, Warner Brothers and Maybach Music MC Rick Ross, Busta Rhymes, Pharrell, Pharoahe Monch, Aja, Rell and Avery Storm just to name a few.
Additionally, Styles P brings an all-star cast with the production on this effort, featuring the work of Pete Rock, Black Saun, Statik Selekta, Warren G, AraabMuzic, J. Music House, Phonix, Reef and others
The lead single "Harsh" that features Rick Ross and Busta Rhymes and is currently featured on several urban radio stations across the country.
"Master of Ceremonies is a body of work that follows the finest lyrically tuned MCs. Point blank, period. It was made with respect of the craft," Styles explained in a statement.
Styles, who still works regularly with Sheek and Jada as a third of The Lox, has released 14 mixtapes, as well as three solo albums to go along with his work with The Lox and D-Block.
Styles also earned his stripes as a writer when he recently released his first novel "Invincible" (One World/Random House) to critical acclaim.
In addition to his work in the world of music and being an author, Styles P has created a juice bar that he also co-owns called Juices For Life in the Bronx.
allhiphop.com
Veteran Rapper YoYo Graduating Students From 'YoYo's School of Hip-Hop'
By Nolan Strong
Veteran West Coast rapper YoYo will be in her hometown of Los Angeles this weekend to preside over the graduation of over 80 students who participated in her YoYo's School of Hip Hop summer program.
YoYo has spent the last seven weeks mentoring 83 students from South Central Los Angeles, in the new program known as YoYo's School of Hip-Hop.
The seven-week course taught students aged 8 to 17 how to use the art form of Hip-Hop to achieve goals, surpass expectations and how to avoid stereotypes, while instilling confidence in them.
On Saturday (August 27th), YoYo and the students will celebrate at the Expo Center, Comrie located in Los Angeles from noon to 2:00PM.
During the graduation ceremonies, students will perform original Hip-Hop songs and dance numbers, while a number of celebrity guests will also be on hand to perform an inspired the students.
"To have 80 kids tugging on me, putting in my hands things that they've written is just a wonderful experience," YoYo told AllHipHop.com.
According to various parents whose children attended the course, the children were transformed from shy to bold, as they wrote their stories in the form of songs and essays.
"Ms. YoYo taught us how to explore our normal selves and how we can be like Chris Brown, Jay-Z, Beyoncé, and all the other entertainers," said Roman "Wild Cat" Thomas, a 12-year-old student who wrote the chorus for the YoYo's School Of Hip Hop chant.
YoYo, who debuted in 1991 with her debut album Make Way for the Motherlode, has worked with a number of artists including Ice Cube and Quincy Jones. She is also a well-known radio host, radio personality and actress, with featured roles in the classic sitcom “Martin."
allhiphop.com
Veteran West Coast rapper YoYo will be in her hometown of Los Angeles this weekend to preside over the graduation of over 80 students who participated in her YoYo's School of Hip Hop summer program.
YoYo has spent the last seven weeks mentoring 83 students from South Central Los Angeles, in the new program known as YoYo's School of Hip-Hop.
The seven-week course taught students aged 8 to 17 how to use the art form of Hip-Hop to achieve goals, surpass expectations and how to avoid stereotypes, while instilling confidence in them.
On Saturday (August 27th), YoYo and the students will celebrate at the Expo Center, Comrie located in Los Angeles from noon to 2:00PM.
During the graduation ceremonies, students will perform original Hip-Hop songs and dance numbers, while a number of celebrity guests will also be on hand to perform an inspired the students.
"To have 80 kids tugging on me, putting in my hands things that they've written is just a wonderful experience," YoYo told AllHipHop.com.
According to various parents whose children attended the course, the children were transformed from shy to bold, as they wrote their stories in the form of songs and essays.
"Ms. YoYo taught us how to explore our normal selves and how we can be like Chris Brown, Jay-Z, Beyoncé, and all the other entertainers," said Roman "Wild Cat" Thomas, a 12-year-old student who wrote the chorus for the YoYo's School Of Hip Hop chant.
YoYo, who debuted in 1991 with her debut album Make Way for the Motherlode, has worked with a number of artists including Ice Cube and Quincy Jones. She is also a well-known radio host, radio personality and actress, with featured roles in the classic sitcom “Martin."
allhiphop.com
Monday, August 22, 2011
Yelawolf Sets Release Date For Shady Debut; Eminem Talks 'Radioactive'
By Nolan Strong
Alabama rapper Yelawolf has announced the release date for his debut album for Eminem's record label, Shady records.
Yelawolf's album Radioactive, will hit stores on October 25th, via a deal with his label Ghet-O-Vision/Shady Records/DGC/Interscope.
According to Yelawolf, the album was inspired by his hardscrabble upbringing in Gadsden, Alabama.
"Radioactive is the fallout of my life's inspirations, a testament to my ability to survive it all and to tell the story," Yelawolf said. "Sometimes I want to party, sometimes I want to fight and sometimes I want to cry. I'm human and this album is as honest as it gets."
Even Eminem is excited about the album, which features production by Justice league, The Audibles, Diplo and SupaHotBeats.
"We are very eager for the world to hear Radioactive and proud to be presenting the album on Shady Records," Eminem told AllHipHop.com in a statement today (August 18th). "Yelawolf is a true original and he has crafted an incredible record."
The first single from the album is titled “Hard White (Up In the Club),” which features Lil Jon.
Radioactive is due in stores on October 25th
allhiphop.com
Alabama rapper Yelawolf has announced the release date for his debut album for Eminem's record label, Shady records.
Yelawolf's album Radioactive, will hit stores on October 25th, via a deal with his label Ghet-O-Vision/Shady Records/DGC/Interscope.
According to Yelawolf, the album was inspired by his hardscrabble upbringing in Gadsden, Alabama.
"Radioactive is the fallout of my life's inspirations, a testament to my ability to survive it all and to tell the story," Yelawolf said. "Sometimes I want to party, sometimes I want to fight and sometimes I want to cry. I'm human and this album is as honest as it gets."
Even Eminem is excited about the album, which features production by Justice league, The Audibles, Diplo and SupaHotBeats.
"We are very eager for the world to hear Radioactive and proud to be presenting the album on Shady Records," Eminem told AllHipHop.com in a statement today (August 18th). "Yelawolf is a true original and he has crafted an incredible record."
The first single from the album is titled “Hard White (Up In the Club),” which features Lil Jon.
Radioactive is due in stores on October 25th
allhiphop.com
Statik Selektah Enlists Talib, Styles P. Bun B. & More For 'Population Control'
By Roman Wolfe
Rapper/producer Statik Selektah has revealed details about his upcoming producer album titled Population Control, which will be released via his independently owned record label Showoff Entertainment, which is being distributed by legendary label, Duck Down Music.
Population Control, which features 18 tracks, contains a who's who in Hip-Hop music, with a wide variety of artists from across the country contributing to the release.
Artists like Bun B., Talib Kweli, Lil Fame of MOP, Styles P., Freddie Gibbs, Joell Ortiz, Pill, Sean Price, Reks, Jon Connor, Strong Arm Steady, Chace Infinite, Action Bronson, Dom Kennedy, Brother Ali, Saigon, Termanology and many others appear on the Population Control.
Statik Selektah produced every track on Population Control, which he said it is a departure from the sounds on his three previous production-based albums, 100 Proof, Stick 2 the Script, and Spell My Name Right.
"Every person I meet is a rapper, Dj, or makes beats," Statik Selektah told AllHipHop.com in a statement. "This is my way of saying who is legit from the new generation and I added a few of the OGs that still care about our music. This is a different sound from my previous albums. It's fresh and younger, but still very raw. I'm excited to show the older rap heads how dope some of the new guys are, as well as show some of the kids following the new guys how the OGs get down.
Population Control is due in stores on October 25th.
Statik Selectah will preview tracks on his weekly Sirius/XM Shade 45 Showoff radio show, which airs every Thursday from 8:00 PM till 12:00 AM.
allhiphop.com
Def Jam Downsizes; Hires Bruno Mars' Manager As A&R Consultant
By Roman Wolfe
Legendary hip-hop label Def Jam went through serious downsizing last week, when over 20 employees were laid off.
Over twenty staffers, along with industry executives Jonathan McHugh and Chris Hicks were dismissed from the Island Def Jam/Motown record labels. According to reports, McHugh and Hicks will continue to do consulting work for the label and other companies.
The news of layoffs come almost a month after Island Def Jam CEO Barry Weiss denied a report by TheWrap, which stated the legendary label was ailing.
Today (August 16th) Island Def Jam and Universal Republic announced they were expanding "their creative teams" with the addition of Brandon Creed, who will act as an A&R consultant for both record labels.
Creed is responsible for managing the career of Bruno Mars and songwriting collective The Smeezingtons, who have crafted hits for groups like Sugababes, B.o.B, Brandy Norwood, Flo Rida, Chad Hugo, Lil Eddie, Brave New World, Bad Meets Evil and Cee Lo Green.
"As we continue to expand our creative investments, Brandon is a perfect fit," stated Mr. Weiss. "Besides being a great artists' manager, he is also a talented A&R and creative executive. We plan to get him very involved across our labels at Island Def Jam Motown and Universal Republic."
llhiphop.com
Legendary hip-hop label Def Jam went through serious downsizing last week, when over 20 employees were laid off.
Over twenty staffers, along with industry executives Jonathan McHugh and Chris Hicks were dismissed from the Island Def Jam/Motown record labels. According to reports, McHugh and Hicks will continue to do consulting work for the label and other companies.
The news of layoffs come almost a month after Island Def Jam CEO Barry Weiss denied a report by TheWrap, which stated the legendary label was ailing.
Today (August 16th) Island Def Jam and Universal Republic announced they were expanding "their creative teams" with the addition of Brandon Creed, who will act as an A&R consultant for both record labels.
Creed is responsible for managing the career of Bruno Mars and songwriting collective The Smeezingtons, who have crafted hits for groups like Sugababes, B.o.B, Brandy Norwood, Flo Rida, Chad Hugo, Lil Eddie, Brave New World, Bad Meets Evil and Cee Lo Green.
"As we continue to expand our creative investments, Brandon is a perfect fit," stated Mr. Weiss. "Besides being a great artists' manager, he is also a talented A&R and creative executive. We plan to get him very involved across our labels at Island Def Jam Motown and Universal Republic."
llhiphop.com
Jewish Rapper Kosha Dillz Works With RZA; Talks Hip-Hop
By Jake Crates
Kosha Dillz, known as one of the prolific and outspokenly Jewish rappers of our time, recently spoke with AllHipHop.com about his song with the RZA, his faith and his work ethic among other things.
The rapper has gained a great deal of attention across the internet for his featured verse on the RZA's "Operator," which also features Kool G Rap. Kosha had this to say about his recent buzz across the net.
“The RZA song was part of a studio session at the Chamber,” Kosha recalled in an AllHipHop.com exclusive interview. “I did a joint with the RZA and this one was called the ‘Operator’ and it was after Rock the Bells and I got invited to the studio. This is where they recorded ‘Triumph’, DJ Skane and I knew each other, I rolled up and they were out in the back and I snuck in the venue and I ended up rapping for ODB’s son, Skane, then they let me rock a few other shows with them. The situation continued and over time.”
Kosha attributes his success to having worked consistently since he got his break on New York’s Hot 97.
“I think what’s really cool is that we just consistently go for it, since I won the Hot 97 battle, and the next year I played the Hot 97 Summer stage for the Summer Jam we grind day in and out.”
Remaining unique and consistent has been one of the variables in Kosha’s success, in addition to staying one step ahead of technology.
“I always find that I am terminally unique,“ Kosha explained. “You know I’ve been doing this since before blogs existed and I’m used to the hustle and everyday I am reaching out somewhere new. I have been in the Jewish Journal, I was at the Israeli Day Parade, I’m basically the Fat Joe of the Jewish community, the week after I did the parade, Fat Joe was on the Puerto Rican Day Parade.”
allhiphop.com
Kosha Dillz, known as one of the prolific and outspokenly Jewish rappers of our time, recently spoke with AllHipHop.com about his song with the RZA, his faith and his work ethic among other things.
The rapper has gained a great deal of attention across the internet for his featured verse on the RZA's "Operator," which also features Kool G Rap. Kosha had this to say about his recent buzz across the net.
“The RZA song was part of a studio session at the Chamber,” Kosha recalled in an AllHipHop.com exclusive interview. “I did a joint with the RZA and this one was called the ‘Operator’ and it was after Rock the Bells and I got invited to the studio. This is where they recorded ‘Triumph’, DJ Skane and I knew each other, I rolled up and they were out in the back and I snuck in the venue and I ended up rapping for ODB’s son, Skane, then they let me rock a few other shows with them. The situation continued and over time.”
Kosha attributes his success to having worked consistently since he got his break on New York’s Hot 97.
“I think what’s really cool is that we just consistently go for it, since I won the Hot 97 battle, and the next year I played the Hot 97 Summer stage for the Summer Jam we grind day in and out.”
Remaining unique and consistent has been one of the variables in Kosha’s success, in addition to staying one step ahead of technology.
“I always find that I am terminally unique,“ Kosha explained. “You know I’ve been doing this since before blogs existed and I’m used to the hustle and everyday I am reaching out somewhere new. I have been in the Jewish Journal, I was at the Israeli Day Parade, I’m basically the Fat Joe of the Jewish community, the week after I did the parade, Fat Joe was on the Puerto Rican Day Parade.”
allhiphop.com
Brand Nubian's Lord Jamar Featured In 'Symphony for the Dance Floor' Tour
By Roman Wolfe
(AllHipHop News) Brand Nubian rapper Lord Jamar will be featured in the "Symphony for the Dance Floor" nationwide tour, which is being produced by composer/violinist Daniel Bernard Roumain (DBR).
The critically acclaimed evening length work is a sonic collage of classical, Hip-Hop and Pop music, set to the photography of veteran photographer Jonathan Mannion.
The production is directed by D.J. Mendel, while photography and video is handled by Mannion, with choreography by Millicent Johnnie.
Lighting is provided by Miriam Crowe, while emceeing is done by Lord Jamar, best known for his work with legendary Hip-Hop group Brand Nubian, in addition to his high profile recurring role in HBO's hit series "Oz."
DBR is an award-winning violinist who has collaborated with numerous artists, including Lady Gaga, Cassandra Wilson and has appeared on various TV shows, including American Idol.
“'Symphony for the Dance Floor' speaks to an equality between concert hall and dance club traditions,” DBR said. “Growing up in South Florida, I went to school, I played in the orchestra, I danced in clubs. It was part of the culture and of the times. So to me, they’re all equal.”
The performance schedule for "Symphony for the Dance Floor" is below, along with a trailer:
OCT 6-8
Miami Light Project, The Light Box at Goldman Warehouse, Miami, FL
OCT 13-15
BAM’s Next Wave Festival, BAM Harvey Theater, Brooklyn, NY
OCT 16
Lewis A. Swyer Theater, Albany, NY
OCT 21-22
Cuyahoga Community College, Mainstage Theater,
Cleveland, OH
allhiphop.com
(AllHipHop News) Brand Nubian rapper Lord Jamar will be featured in the "Symphony for the Dance Floor" nationwide tour, which is being produced by composer/violinist Daniel Bernard Roumain (DBR).
The critically acclaimed evening length work is a sonic collage of classical, Hip-Hop and Pop music, set to the photography of veteran photographer Jonathan Mannion.
The production is directed by D.J. Mendel, while photography and video is handled by Mannion, with choreography by Millicent Johnnie.
Lighting is provided by Miriam Crowe, while emceeing is done by Lord Jamar, best known for his work with legendary Hip-Hop group Brand Nubian, in addition to his high profile recurring role in HBO's hit series "Oz."
DBR is an award-winning violinist who has collaborated with numerous artists, including Lady Gaga, Cassandra Wilson and has appeared on various TV shows, including American Idol.
“'Symphony for the Dance Floor' speaks to an equality between concert hall and dance club traditions,” DBR said. “Growing up in South Florida, I went to school, I played in the orchestra, I danced in clubs. It was part of the culture and of the times. So to me, they’re all equal.”
The performance schedule for "Symphony for the Dance Floor" is below, along with a trailer:
OCT 6-8
Miami Light Project, The Light Box at Goldman Warehouse, Miami, FL
OCT 13-15
BAM’s Next Wave Festival, BAM Harvey Theater, Brooklyn, NY
OCT 16
Lewis A. Swyer Theater, Albany, NY
OCT 21-22
Cuyahoga Community College, Mainstage Theater,
Cleveland, OH
allhiphop.com
Lowkey Enlists M1 & Immortal Technique For "Soundtrack To The Struggle"
by Steven J. Horowitz
The English rapper also links with producers ShowNProve, Sivey, Red Skull, Nutt P and more.
England's Lowkey has revealed the tracklist for his upcoming sophomore release Soundtrack to the Struggle, dropping October 16th.
The 26-track LP features guest appearances from Immortal Technique, M1 of Dead Prez, Shadi Mansour, Mai Khalil, Klashnekoff, Sanasino, Crazy Haze and Black the Ripper. Production comes courtesy of Nutty P, Sivey, ShowNProve, Red Skull, Quincey Tones, Big G, Vendetta, Beatnick & K-Salaam, Jetsun and Last Resort.
Check the tracklist below.
1. Soundtrack To The Struggle (produced by Nutty P)
2. Too Much ft Shadia Mansour (produced by Nutty P)
3. Voices Of The Voiceless ft Immortal Technique (produced by Sivey)
4. Hand On Your Gun (produced by ShowNProve)
5. Skit 1
6. Terrorist? (produced by Red Skull)
7. Something Wonderful (produced by Red Skull)
8. Dreamers ft. Mai Khalil
9. Skit 2
10. Obama Nation (produced by Red Skull)
11. Skit 3
12. Cradle Of Civilisation ft. Mai Khalil (produced by Quincey Tones)
13. Skit 4
14. Blood, Sweat and Tears ft Klashnekoff (produced Nutty P)
15. Everything I Am (produced by ShowNProve)
16. Skit 5
17. Long Live Palestine (produced by Nutty P)
18. We Will Rise ft Sanasino (produced by Big G)
19. My Soul (produced by Vendetta)
20. Skit 6
21. The Butterfly Effect (produced by Beatnick & K-Salaam)
22. Obama Nation Part 2 ft M1 (DEAD PREZ), Black The Ripper (produced by Nutty P)
23. Dear England ft Mai Khalil (produced by BeatNick & K-Salaam)
24. Haunted ft Mai Khalil (produced by JetSun)
25. Terrorist? Part 2 ft Crazy Haze & Mai Khalil (produced by Last Resort)
26. Million Man March ft Mai Khalil (produced by Big G)
hiphopdx.com
Scarface Released From Prison, Already Working On New Music
by Salima Koroma
UPDATE: The Geto Boys founder has been released from prison after nearly a year behind bars.
While reports of public figures heading to jail are far from uncommon, it is quite unusual for such news to be concealed for almost four months. It was confirmed on Thursday that Texas rapper Scarface was incarcerated last October, and has been held in the Montgomery County Jail since, for failing to pay child support.
According to XXLmag.com who spoke with a representative of the jail, the veteran rapper is facing charges in four different child support cases. Even more unusual, he is also facing additional federal charges that have not yet been publicly disclosed.
Before the incarceration, Scarface had been working on his twelfth album, The Habit, said to be featuring both John Legend and Drake. There is no update yet on the specifics regarding the federal charges, bail, or when he is scheduled to appear in court.
[February 3]
UPDATE: After nearly a year in prison, Scarface is reportedly a free man. According to HHW, 'Face was released from Harris County Jail where he remained incarcerated for failing to pay child support. "Face is home and he’s already busy working on releasing new material," says a representative. "It’s not going to take him long to fall right back into the swing of things."
hiphopdx.com
Rock The Bells 2011 Kicks Off With Nas, Ms. Lauryn Hill, Slaughterhouse & More
by Andres Vasquez
This year's Rock The Bells Festival kicked off in San Bernardino, California yesterday with Nas performing "Illmatic," Ms. Hill performing "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill" and much more.
“This will be the biggest production that Rock the Bells has ever put on. I guarantee that.” When Guerilla Union president Chang Weisberg announced the Rock the Bells lineup they had planned for 2011 back in May in this manner, fans were forewarned about the production value going up for this year’s festival. Those in attendance at the kickoff Rock the Bells show in San Bernardino, California this past Saturday found that he was being sincere.
In a welcome return to the San Manuel Amphitheater, the festival lived up to the bar they set for themselves in past years. Newcomers and veterans took stages with fans of old and new rocking along to it all. The afternoon saw its fair share of excitement and drama, with Mac Miller bringing Pittsburgh to California and Curren$y unfortunately breaking his leg during his performance (he would be carried out of the venue by two associates).
In between both acts, Slaughterhouse took the stage without Royce Da 5’9 (who couldn’t attend due to a conflicting performance with Eminem at this year’s V Festival). Nevertheless, Slaughterhouse moved on with their set and represented for Royce, keeping the Detroit shout alive as part of their homages to their hometowns. During the set, Ron Artest, also now known as Metta World Peace, surprised fans in attendance. He joined the group for quick greetings and a salute to the crowd before retreating and allowing the Slaughter set to continue, as Crooked proudly said, "He's a [Los Angeles] Laker."
to read more go to:
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.16542/title.rock-the-bells-2011-kicks-off-with-nas-ms-lauryn-hill-slaughterhouse-more
This year's Rock The Bells Festival kicked off in San Bernardino, California yesterday with Nas performing "Illmatic," Ms. Hill performing "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill" and much more.
“This will be the biggest production that Rock the Bells has ever put on. I guarantee that.” When Guerilla Union president Chang Weisberg announced the Rock the Bells lineup they had planned for 2011 back in May in this manner, fans were forewarned about the production value going up for this year’s festival. Those in attendance at the kickoff Rock the Bells show in San Bernardino, California this past Saturday found that he was being sincere.
In a welcome return to the San Manuel Amphitheater, the festival lived up to the bar they set for themselves in past years. Newcomers and veterans took stages with fans of old and new rocking along to it all. The afternoon saw its fair share of excitement and drama, with Mac Miller bringing Pittsburgh to California and Curren$y unfortunately breaking his leg during his performance (he would be carried out of the venue by two associates).
In between both acts, Slaughterhouse took the stage without Royce Da 5’9 (who couldn’t attend due to a conflicting performance with Eminem at this year’s V Festival). Nevertheless, Slaughterhouse moved on with their set and represented for Royce, keeping the Detroit shout alive as part of their homages to their hometowns. During the set, Ron Artest, also now known as Metta World Peace, surprised fans in attendance. He joined the group for quick greetings and a salute to the crowd before retreating and allowing the Slaughter set to continue, as Crooked proudly said, "He's a [Los Angeles] Laker."
to read more go to:
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.16542/title.rock-the-bells-2011-kicks-off-with-nas-ms-lauryn-hill-slaughterhouse-more
One Be Lo's "L.A.B.O.R." Album To Release September 6
by Jake Paine
The Binary Star co-founder and Michigan underground Hip Hop veteran unloads his latest solo work for next month.
Pontiac, Michigan emcee One Be Lo will release his sixth solo album, L.A.B.O.R. on September 6. The release is an acronym for Language Arts Based On Reality. The Binary Star member's tracklisting is as follows:
01. LabORhood
02. The ANT (i matter)
03. Monkey Biz
04. Ox y Moron
05. Machine Labor
06. Snake Charmer
07. Dragon Slayer
08. Doggy-Style-Biscuits
09. GameCock Diesel
10. MEGAchile Pluto
11. Tiger S t r i p e s
12. Sheep's Clothing
13. PIGS
14. BEEF
15. Rabbit Food
16. rootS
17. Jenny
18. Tails from the Hood R.a.t.s
19. DESTINY (of the Phoenix)
20. The G.O.A.T.
21. WILdeBEEST
hiphopdx.com
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
RZA, Snoop Dogg Appear In Vh1's "Planet Rock" Crack Cocaine Documentary
by Jake Paine
Executive producer Ice-T narrates the film, which also features Raekwon and B-Real.
On September 18, Vh1's "Rock Docs" will premier Planet Rock: The Story of Hip Hop and the Crack Generation. The two-hour documentary, part of the Emmy Award-winning series looks at the parallels between Hip Hop and crack cocaine, both of which rose to mainstream prominence in the 1980s.
The documentary is executive produced and narrated by rapper/actor Ice-T. The work features interviews by Wu-Tang Clan's RZA and Raekwon, Snoop Dogg and B-Real of Cypress Hill.
hiphopdx.com
Executive producer Ice-T narrates the film, which also features Raekwon and B-Real.
On September 18, Vh1's "Rock Docs" will premier Planet Rock: The Story of Hip Hop and the Crack Generation. The two-hour documentary, part of the Emmy Award-winning series looks at the parallels between Hip Hop and crack cocaine, both of which rose to mainstream prominence in the 1980s.
The documentary is executive produced and narrated by rapper/actor Ice-T. The work features interviews by Wu-Tang Clan's RZA and Raekwon, Snoop Dogg and B-Real of Cypress Hill.
hiphopdx.com
Rap Release Dates: Jay-Z & Kanye West, Ski Beatz, Cormega, Phonte
by Kathy Iandoli
Now that "Watch the Throne" has arrived, it's time to check out the rest of August and September, with Game and Lil Wayne still arriving this month, along with J. Cole, Swizz Beatz, and Young Jeezy coming in September
So far this week, Hip Hop could finally exhale as Watch the Throne made its digital dropoff yesterday (August 8th). Today, Gucci Mane and his protege Waka Flocka Flame arrive with Ferrari Boyz, the cameo-heavy collaborative project with features including French Montana on "Feed Me" , Rocko on both "In My Business" and the Drumma Boy produced "What the Hell" . Royce Da 5'9 also comes through with Success Is Certain, which puts Royce in the driver's seat of some hard-hitting cuts like "Where My Money" , the Nottz-produced "Merry Go Round" , and the Joe Budden-assisted "My Own Planet" .
The week after, La Coka Nostra's own Slaine will drop A World With No Skies 2.0. Prior to 2.0 Slaine dropped the mixtape "State Of Grace" with producer Statik Selektah which included the punchy "Offensive Lines" with Action Bronson and Ill Bill. The third week of August offers Game's long-awaited The R.E.D. Album on August 23rd. As of right now, Pusha T will be delivering Fear Of God Part 2: Let Us Pray that same day and a week later Lil Wayne's Tha Carter IV is scheduled to be upon us.
September looks equally promising, with Swizz Beatz's Haute Living on September 13th. Recently Swizzy dropped a mixtape of all of his "Monster Mondays" tracks. Young Jeezy brings Thug Motivation 103 on September 20th with the Queen of Hip Hop Soul Mary J. Blige bringing My Life II: The Journey Continues that date as well. One week later (on September 27th) finds J. Cole's Cole World: The Sideline Story, Big K.R.I.T.'s Live From the Underground, and Yelawolf's Radioactive all on that same day. 'Wolf dropped the single "Hard White (Up In the Club)" with Lil Jon just last week.
Check HipHopDX's Release Dates page for all your Hip Hop album needs.
August 8
Jay-Z & Kanye West - Watch the Throne
August 9
Ace Hood - Blood, Sweat & Tears
Gucci Mane & Waka Flocka Flame - Ferrari Boyz
Royce Da 5'9" - Success Is Certain
Ski Beatz - 24 Hour Karate School 2
August 16
Median - The Sender
Slaine - A World With No Skies 2.0
Slim Thug Presents... - Boss Hogg Outlawz - Serve And Collect Part 3 (Immahogg)
August 23
Apathy - Honkey Kong
Game - The R.E.D. Album
J-Live - S.P.T.A. (Said Person Of That Ability)
Pusha T - Fear Of God Part 2: Let Us Pray
August 29
Lil' Wayne - Tha Carter IV
August 30
BK-One - Tema Do Canibal EP
Blu - J e s u s
DJ Drama - Third Power
Glasses Malone - Beach Cruiser
Ja Rule - Pain Is Love 2
Soopafly - Best Kept Secret
Timbo King - Babylon To Timbuktu
September 6
Oddisee - Rock Creek Park
September 13
Bronze Nazareth - School For the Blindman
Kurupt Presents - The Academy
Shawn Chrystopher - Silent Films For the Blind
Swizz Beatz - Haute Living
September 20
DTMD - Makin' Dollas
G-Macc - The Opera/Angels & Demons
Mary J. Blige - My Life II: The Journey Continues
Tragedy Khadafi - Thug Matrix 3
Young Jeezy - Thug Motivation 103
September 27
9th Wonder - The Wonder Years
Big K.R.I.T. - Live From the Underground
Cormega - Mega Raw/Greatest Hits
J. Cole - Cole World: The Sideline Story
J-Live - S.P.T.A. (Said Person of That Ability)
Phonte - Charity Starts At Home
Yelawolf - Radioactive
hiphopdx.com
Now that "Watch the Throne" has arrived, it's time to check out the rest of August and September, with Game and Lil Wayne still arriving this month, along with J. Cole, Swizz Beatz, and Young Jeezy coming in September
So far this week, Hip Hop could finally exhale as Watch the Throne made its digital dropoff yesterday (August 8th). Today, Gucci Mane and his protege Waka Flocka Flame arrive with Ferrari Boyz, the cameo-heavy collaborative project with features including French Montana on "Feed Me" , Rocko on both "In My Business" and the Drumma Boy produced "What the Hell" . Royce Da 5'9 also comes through with Success Is Certain, which puts Royce in the driver's seat of some hard-hitting cuts like "Where My Money" , the Nottz-produced "Merry Go Round" , and the Joe Budden-assisted "My Own Planet" .
The week after, La Coka Nostra's own Slaine will drop A World With No Skies 2.0. Prior to 2.0 Slaine dropped the mixtape "State Of Grace" with producer Statik Selektah which included the punchy "Offensive Lines" with Action Bronson and Ill Bill. The third week of August offers Game's long-awaited The R.E.D. Album on August 23rd. As of right now, Pusha T will be delivering Fear Of God Part 2: Let Us Pray that same day and a week later Lil Wayne's Tha Carter IV is scheduled to be upon us.
September looks equally promising, with Swizz Beatz's Haute Living on September 13th. Recently Swizzy dropped a mixtape of all of his "Monster Mondays" tracks. Young Jeezy brings Thug Motivation 103 on September 20th with the Queen of Hip Hop Soul Mary J. Blige bringing My Life II: The Journey Continues that date as well. One week later (on September 27th) finds J. Cole's Cole World: The Sideline Story, Big K.R.I.T.'s Live From the Underground, and Yelawolf's Radioactive all on that same day. 'Wolf dropped the single "Hard White (Up In the Club)" with Lil Jon just last week.
Check HipHopDX's Release Dates page for all your Hip Hop album needs.
August 8
Jay-Z & Kanye West - Watch the Throne
August 9
Ace Hood - Blood, Sweat & Tears
Gucci Mane & Waka Flocka Flame - Ferrari Boyz
Royce Da 5'9" - Success Is Certain
Ski Beatz - 24 Hour Karate School 2
August 16
Median - The Sender
Slaine - A World With No Skies 2.0
Slim Thug Presents... - Boss Hogg Outlawz - Serve And Collect Part 3 (Immahogg)
August 23
Apathy - Honkey Kong
Game - The R.E.D. Album
J-Live - S.P.T.A. (Said Person Of That Ability)
Pusha T - Fear Of God Part 2: Let Us Pray
August 29
Lil' Wayne - Tha Carter IV
August 30
BK-One - Tema Do Canibal EP
Blu - J e s u s
DJ Drama - Third Power
Glasses Malone - Beach Cruiser
Ja Rule - Pain Is Love 2
Soopafly - Best Kept Secret
Timbo King - Babylon To Timbuktu
September 6
Oddisee - Rock Creek Park
September 13
Bronze Nazareth - School For the Blindman
Kurupt Presents - The Academy
Shawn Chrystopher - Silent Films For the Blind
Swizz Beatz - Haute Living
September 20
DTMD - Makin' Dollas
G-Macc - The Opera/Angels & Demons
Mary J. Blige - My Life II: The Journey Continues
Tragedy Khadafi - Thug Matrix 3
Young Jeezy - Thug Motivation 103
September 27
9th Wonder - The Wonder Years
Big K.R.I.T. - Live From the Underground
Cormega - Mega Raw/Greatest Hits
J. Cole - Cole World: The Sideline Story
J-Live - S.P.T.A. (Said Person of That Ability)
Phonte - Charity Starts At Home
Yelawolf - Radioactive
hiphopdx.com
Black Moon To Perform "Enta Da Stage" In Brooklyn, New York
by Steven J. Horowitz
Buckshot, 5ft and DJ Evil Dee are teaming up to perform their 1993 classic in its entirety.
Black Moon has announced that it will be performing its classic 1993 release Enta Da Stage in its entirety. Buckshot, 5ft and DJ Evil Dee plan on taking the stage at Brooklyn, New York's Southpaw on August 17th, backed by a five-piece band to play the LP in addition to bonus songs "Buck Em Down (Remix)" and "I Got Cha Opin (Remix)."
The concert will also feature DJ Statik Selektah on the wheels of steel, as well as additional performances by Sean Price, Smif-N-Wessun, Iron Solomon and MFN eXquire.
Tickets are $10 in advance for the 18+ event
hiphopdx.com
Necro Gives Update On 'Godfathers' Album With Kool G. Rap
By Roman Wolfe
Hard core rapper Necro recently took the time to update fans about his upcoming collaboration album with legendary Queens artist, Kool G. Rap.
Kool G. And Necro are recording a full-length album titled The Godfathers, which will be released on Necro's indie label, Psycho+Logical Records
In addition to producing all of the tracks on The Godfathers, Necro is serving as executive producer of the release, along with veteran producer Domingo.
"We have been working on it for the last three months and its coming along real rugged," Necro revealed. "I spent the first month just making beats so I could present G. Rap with something new and fresh musically. We then started writing and have been at it for about two months."
According to Necro, the album is on pace to be completed is the next two to three months. After it is completed and mastered, the two emcees will decide on a release date.
In related news, Necro just released a new music video for his song "DIE!" with two different versions.
allhiphop.com
Hard core rapper Necro recently took the time to update fans about his upcoming collaboration album with legendary Queens artist, Kool G. Rap.
Kool G. And Necro are recording a full-length album titled The Godfathers, which will be released on Necro's indie label, Psycho+Logical Records
In addition to producing all of the tracks on The Godfathers, Necro is serving as executive producer of the release, along with veteran producer Domingo.
"We have been working on it for the last three months and its coming along real rugged," Necro revealed. "I spent the first month just making beats so I could present G. Rap with something new and fresh musically. We then started writing and have been at it for about two months."
According to Necro, the album is on pace to be completed is the next two to three months. After it is completed and mastered, the two emcees will decide on a release date.
In related news, Necro just released a new music video for his song "DIE!" with two different versions.
allhiphop.com
Force MD's Story Told In New Documentary 'The Force MD's Re–Lived'
By Grandmaster Grouchy Greg
The story of pioneering R&B/Hip-Hop group The Force MD's is being told for the first time, in a new documentary title The Force MD's Re–Lived.
The group, which hailed from Staten Island, found major success on Tommy Boy Records during Hip-Hop's "Golden Age," starting in the year 1984 with the album Love Letters.
In addition to their music being featured in movies like Krush Groove, The Force MD's hit the charts with tracks like "Let Me Love You,” “Forgive Me Girl,” “Itchin' For a Scratch,” “Tears” and the Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis hit “Tender Love.”
The group's sound was so unique at the time, that Rolling Stone magazine labeled them as the creators of "Doo-Wop Hip-Hop," hence the name Force "MD's," which stands for "musical diversity."
The Force MD's Real Live, was directed By Frazier Prince and written by Rodney Lundy, Steven Lundy, and Antoine Elliott.
The group's story is told through interviews and first hand accounts with guest appearances from legends of R&B and Hip-Hop including Boyz II Men, Bell, Biv Devoe, MC Lyte, Tom Silverman, Afrika Bambaataa, Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis, Bow Legged Lou, Naughty By Nature, Kurtis Blow, Melle Mel, Doug E. Fresh, Biz Markie, Grand Wizard Theodore, KRS One, the late Mr. Magic as well as the Force MD’s themselves.
A special screening for The Force MD's Re-Lived is taking place on Saturday August 13th, 2011, at the Tribeca Theater in New York.
allhiphop.com
DJ Kay Slay Says 'Rhyme or Die' Final Album; Talks Changes in Hip-Hop
By Jake Crates
(AllHipHop News) DJ Kay Slay has revealed that his next album Rhyme or Die will be his final album, although he has no plans on "retiring" from the rap game in anyway, shape, form or fashion.
Kay Slay's final project will be released in November under his Street Sweepers Entertainment imprint.
Although he is financing the project, he is still shopping it around to the labels in search of a major distribution deal.
Rhyme or Die features 20 songs, including the singles "Bury the Hatchet" featuring Lil Cease and Young Noble, as well as "King of the Streets," featuring DJ Khaled, DJ Doo Wop and DJ Drama on the hook.
"Its a DJ cut, we rhyming about Hip-Hop," DJ Kay Slay told AllHipHop.com. "Its a record dedicated to the rappers that we the real 'Kings of the streets.
“Its [Rhyme or Die] my final album and I’m only doing it because the streets need one more Hip-Hop compilation, that’s really a Hip-Hop compilation,” Kay Slay continued. “No disrespect to anything anybody is doing, but it’s [mixtape compilations] got to have artists on there from the gutter that’s not getting mainstream air play as well, and a lot of people are scared to give people opportunities.”
Since this is his final project, Kay Slay elaborated on the changes throughout the Hip-Hop industry that led to his decision to “fall back” and play a role in the industry behind the scenes.
The New York DJ that will continue to keep the air ways at the tips of his fingers on Sirius/XM Radio and on New York’s Hot 97.
“I got a lot of people on there, up and coming and including main stream acts,” Kay Slay told AllHipHop.com of his last project. “I want people to know that this is what Hip-Hop is. I want people to get that feel. There is a big misrepresentation of what the culture is and it’s a never ending story and its like an argument on religion.”
Rhyme or Die contains 20 songs that includes guest appearances from a number of artists, including G-Unit's Lloyd Banks, Tony Yayo, Jadakiss, Jim Jones, Maino , Rick Ross, Nelly, Fabolous, Cee Lo Green, Triple C's, Ace Hood, Joell Ortiz, Papoose, Vado, Freeway, Beanie Siegle, Tracy Lee, Locksmith, Big Krit, Three 36 Mafia, Yo Gotti Kendrick Lamar, Jay Rock, Glasses Malone, Rocket, Busta Rhymes, Layzie Bone, Twista & Jaz-O and others.
“There comes a time in everyone’s life when they decide to fall back and we gotta show the young cats the way," DJ Kay Slay told AllHipHop.com. "Its not a retirement, its just a fall back situation. Let them take 80 artists around and call other DJ’s that are supposed to look out for you. I don’t want to be part of the f**k boy s**t anymore. You gotta blow cheese to get people to do anything and its weird. People don’t show love. I don’t want to ask anyone for anything that they don’t feel obligated to do."
allhiphop.com
Chuck D. Drops 'Notice'; Says It's No Diss To Kanye, Jay
By Grandmaster Grouchy Greg
(AllHipHop News) Pioneering rap veteran Chuck D. has released a song titled "Notice," his own take on Jay-Z and Kanye West's popular track “Otis,” from their upcoming release Watch the Throne.
The Public Enemy frontman, who recorded the track on his birthday (August 1st), said "Notice" was inspired by a number of different events, including the recent media frenzy over Soulja Boy's allegedly purchase of a $55,000,000 jet, which turned out to be a hoax.
Chuck D. told AllHipHop.com that his lyrics are not meant to offend Soulja Boy, Jay-Z or Kanye West, yet he simply had to make a commentary about the times we are living in.
"In these difficult times for many people (especially of color), this is a call to artists to continue to inspire, but to reflect the people better than the media does," Chuck D. said of "Notice."
According to Chuck D., the song is simply a call for fellow artists to "counteract the media's overzealousness in reporting," by better representing the fans who listen to their music.
“Here’s to hoping that the Jay-Z & Kanye supergroup can elevate the masses to try a little bit more to reflect Otis’ heart rather than swag, because they're too good to be less,” Chuck D. said.
Take a listen to Chuck D.'s new track “Notice” below:
(AllHipHop News) Pioneering rap veteran Chuck D. has released a song titled "Notice," his own take on Jay-Z and Kanye West's popular track “Otis,” from their upcoming release Watch the Throne.
The Public Enemy frontman, who recorded the track on his birthday (August 1st), said "Notice" was inspired by a number of different events, including the recent media frenzy over Soulja Boy's allegedly purchase of a $55,000,000 jet, which turned out to be a hoax.
Chuck D. told AllHipHop.com that his lyrics are not meant to offend Soulja Boy, Jay-Z or Kanye West, yet he simply had to make a commentary about the times we are living in.
"In these difficult times for many people (especially of color), this is a call to artists to continue to inspire, but to reflect the people better than the media does," Chuck D. said of "Notice."
According to Chuck D., the song is simply a call for fellow artists to "counteract the media's overzealousness in reporting," by better representing the fans who listen to their music.
“Here’s to hoping that the Jay-Z & Kanye supergroup can elevate the masses to try a little bit more to reflect Otis’ heart rather than swag, because they're too good to be less,” Chuck D. said.
Take a listen to Chuck D.'s new track “Notice” below:
DJ Scream Signs With Rick Ross' Maybach Music Group
By Jake Crates
After several months of speculation within the industry, DJ Scream has signed a six-figure deal with Rick Ross' Maybach Music Group/Warner Brothers.
The duo, having collaborated in the past, began dealing with rumors circulating around the signing in April.
The deal officially became a reality when Ross described the acquisition to his quickly growing list of artists on Atlanta's Hot 107.9.
"This is a huge opportunity for me to further demonstrate my talents and capabilities. I feel like I’ve helped to garner success for a lot of artists as a DJ, but now I have the exciting challenge of putting out records for myself,” said DJ Scream. “I’ve got a great team behind me and I look forward to adding to the greatness of MMG.”
Scream will join the Maybach Music Group roster of Meek Mill, Wale, Pill, Stalley and Teedra Moses.
He will play a crucial role in releasing music for the Maybach Music camp.
Rick Ross confirmed that DJ Scream will host his new mixtape, as well as his album sampler, leading up to the release of Ross' upcoming full length album, God Forgives, I Don't.
“Scream came down to the bottom and we just laid out a strategy," Rick Ross explained. "Not only to get money but to continue to build a brand, to continue to make sure ATL and the South still be one of the premier spots to make music. You can go to Scream for a lot of different things, he’s a boss.”
No stranger to grinding in the spotlight, DJ Scream will continue his co-executive duties with Hoodrich Ent, as well as his responsibilities with Sirius XM’s Hip Hop Nation and Atlanta’s Hot 107.9.
Although DJ Scream's debut album is yet to be titled, fans can expect a Spring 2012 release with top talent from across the hip-hop world.
Earlier this year DJ Scream took the top honor of #1 DJ of the South beating out a number of respected talents.
allhiphop.com
BMI To Honor Snoop Dogg Later This Month During BMI Awards
By Jake Crates
Broadcast Music, Inc is awarding Snoop Dogg with the BMI Icon Award at the 11th Annual BMI Urban Awards at the end of this month.
BMI, which represents more than 475,000 songwriters, composers and music publishers in all genres of music and more than 6.5 million works, conducts the Annual BMI Urban Awards to honor the songwriters and publishers of the most performed songs on U.S. radio and TV over the last 12 months.
This year the awards will be hosted by Del R. Bryant, President & CEO of BMI, and Catherine Brewton, Vice President, Writer/Publisher Relations.
Snoop Dogg is in good company for his award, as he is joined by a list of previous honorees that includes artists like George Clinton, The Jacksons, James Brown, Isaac Hayes, Little Richard, Chuck Berry, The Bee Gees, Willie Nelson and Carlos Santana, to name a few.
Those expected to be in attendance include Drake, Wiz Khalifa, Lex Lugar, Marsha Ambrosius, Polow Da Don, DJ Khaled, Jim Jonson, Ace Hood, Sean Garrett, Zaytoven, Mario Winans, Busta Rhymes, Tyga, Gorilla Zoe and many more.
The event will take place at the Pantages Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles, California on August 26th.
allhiphop.com
Broadcast Music, Inc is awarding Snoop Dogg with the BMI Icon Award at the 11th Annual BMI Urban Awards at the end of this month.
BMI, which represents more than 475,000 songwriters, composers and music publishers in all genres of music and more than 6.5 million works, conducts the Annual BMI Urban Awards to honor the songwriters and publishers of the most performed songs on U.S. radio and TV over the last 12 months.
This year the awards will be hosted by Del R. Bryant, President & CEO of BMI, and Catherine Brewton, Vice President, Writer/Publisher Relations.
Snoop Dogg is in good company for his award, as he is joined by a list of previous honorees that includes artists like George Clinton, The Jacksons, James Brown, Isaac Hayes, Little Richard, Chuck Berry, The Bee Gees, Willie Nelson and Carlos Santana, to name a few.
Those expected to be in attendance include Drake, Wiz Khalifa, Lex Lugar, Marsha Ambrosius, Polow Da Don, DJ Khaled, Jim Jonson, Ace Hood, Sean Garrett, Zaytoven, Mario Winans, Busta Rhymes, Tyga, Gorilla Zoe and many more.
The event will take place at the Pantages Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles, California on August 26th.
allhiphop.com
Thursday, August 4, 2011
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