Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Locals Only III Continued: The Physics

The Physics is trio out of Seattle. I recently started listening to them and I really enjoy their sound. It's truly relaxing. It's that type of music where you can be on your porch with a couple of friends and just hanging out. If you are a fan of the 90's hip hop music scene then I guarantee you that you will enjoy their music. They actually remind a little of Slum Village which is quite refreshing knowing that the main members of Slum Village have passed away. Their legacy lives on and this crew definitely has been influenced by the soothing sounds of Slum Village.




Wishing On A Star

Rose Royce is an American soul and R&B band. The group is best known for several hit singles including "Car Wash," "I Wanna Get Next to You," "Wishing on A Star", "Love Don't Live Here Anymore" and "I'm Going Down".

Wishing on a star has been sampled, covered, remixed and anything musically you can think of done to it. It is essentially an amazing record. I'm going to post 3 versions, Rose Royce, Jay-Z and a new artist that I found on Vimeo by the name of Avatar.


Rose Royce - Wishing On A Star


Jay-Z - Wishing On A Star

Avatar Young Blaze & Isabella Du Graf - WISHING ON A DREAM on Vimeo.

Locals Only III

Similar to the first Locals Only post, this one will feature an amazing director with an ear for great music. Jon Jon Augustavo, a Seattle native, graduated from Washington State University in the communications program. He's a truly creative director, on this blog I've already posted several videos of his by Eighty4 Fly and Scribes but believe me when I tell that there will be several other ones.

Jon Jon has created a series titled "Good Times" with the intent of offering more that music videos by hip hop artists but also give the viewers and the fans a story of the artists. The first installment features Chicago area, DC-born rhymesayer, Dave Coresh. "Dave Coresh scribes melodies that bob heads, moves feet and affects the crowd with his powerful vibe. As an MC, one must be able to Move the Crowd, and with smooth beats accompanying his distinctive flow, the crowd falls victim to his vibrant charisma. Such is the bravado of Dave Coresh. Proclaimed as the ‘Boy Wonder in the Flesh’, Dave Coresh hails from DC. He moved to Chicago to live with his aunt after his mother was stunted by drug abuse and father became impeded by an arrest. The roots of his musical influences stem from family ties, which have a history of Church Choir singers and band members jazzing to the beat of the Go-Go Music Movement. Drawn to Hip Hop by the competitive aspect of Battle Rap, the skills of Coresh developed through countless evenings Freestyling against an array of lyrical opponents. With intricate lyrics holding universal concepts that a wide range of listeners can groove to without hesitation, Dave’s goal is to spark emotions through the use of his words. It’s been a year since Dave began to pursue a career in Hip Hop, and as his buzz grows, he stays humbled by the opportunity to spread his music."



Download his mixtape HERE!

The second post features a movie type music video to a soulful R&B joint.

LACE CADENCE x MOONLIGHT (dir. by JON JON) from Jon Jon on Vimeo.


The third video features a relaxing beat plus laid back lyrics. Peep it.

THE PHYSICS x I JUST WANNA BEAT (dir. by JON JON) from Jon Jon on Vimeo.


Check out more of Jon Jon's work at his Vimeo page.

The 90's?

I can't explain nor can I type the correct description of how incredibly INCREDIBLE this song is.

Make sure you click play on this!


SCRIBES x ROLL MY WAY (dir. by JON JON) from Jon Jon on Vimeo.

Be Dif'rent!!

"This Newburgh-based collective of emcees, poets and musicians released an album titled Day Before Sound earlier in 2010. They approached Noisemaker Media to produce their music video campaign with the intent to create a visual piece that would highlight their eclectic sound. "Be Dif'Rent" sets a precedent for Director Mark Carranceja's work as he reinforces his catalog with a visual tour de force that introduces the Hip Hop world to the ReadNex Poetry Squad. To Be Dif'Rent is to uncover ones talents and passions.

To Be Dif'Rent is to follow one's intuition rather than exterior conditions.

To Be Dif'Rent means to embrace yourself for who you are and be comfortable within your own skin.


Witness the evolution of the ReadNex Poetry Squad and understand what it means to Be Dif'Rent."

This song represents the power of Hip Hop music and the capability it holds in influencing, motivating and teaching a wide range of audience.

ReadNex Poetry Squad | Be Dif'Rent from Noisemaker Media on Vimeo.

Eighty4 Fly

I don't have specific information on this artist but I came across his music while I was doing my usual searching on Vimeo. He falls in the category of a trendy artist. He's very up to date with his music while articulating the usual current hip hop topics; money, weed, fashion and women. Don't make the mistake of interpreting that previous statement as a bad review because if that was the case Eighty4 Fly wouldn't be on my blog but his music is unique because it feels authentic.

Cool, calm and suave.

EIGHTY4 FLY - HipHopSh!t


EIGHTY4 FLY - LIKE PLANES




This a collaborative mixtape by Eighty4 Fly and Teal, a producer from Seattle, titled The Raging Vampire Remixes. It features Eighty4 Fly's music but mixed in with electro instrumentals produced by Teal.

Thursday, December 23, 2010

4:57, Laws: Runaway

No this will not be another freestyle over Kanye's "Runaway", but it will be the introduction of a new artist that I found.

Laws hails from Spring Hill, Florida. He's a very witty artist but I haven't heard all of his work to make a correct judgment or assessment on him. I immediately fell in love with this song on his 4:57(check it out) mixtape hosted by Don Cannon, I suggest you check it out it's a good one. I will say this though, the kid lacks a solid flow, it does at times get rather boring but it depends on the content, I guess.

The song I'm about to post was produced by The J.U.S.T.I.C.E LEAGUE, and it's a remake of the Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs Runaway. He does a great job at making this song easy to relate too.



Also, make sure to check out his newest mixtape that features production from The J.U.S.T.I.C.E LEAGUE, Your Future Favourite Rapper

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

The Twilight Zone: The Masks

Here is another incredible episode of The Twilight Zone. This episode focuses on the importance of being beautiful internally rather than externally. It is a perfect example of the shallowness and negative traits that we all somewhat have.

It's like Kanye West rhymed, "The prettiest people do the ugliest things, for the road to riches and diamond rings".


Part 1
Part 2


Part 3
Part 4

Saturday, December 18, 2010

C'est Stromae

Since majority of my family lives in Europe it was only a matter of time until I found out about this incredible song that was easily my anthem for this passing Summer. It's as if he's constructing a mash up between the 90's electro synths and the current hip hop style of lyrical delivery. He's a pretty dope individual.


stromae alors on danse from niresh123 on Vimeo.


Stromae, Kanye West & Gilbere Forte - Alors On Danse (Remix)

This is my surprise, CLICK HERE!

Adriano Celentano: L'Elvis Presley Italiano

Adriano Celentano, born in Milan, is an Italian singer, songwriter, comedian, actor, film director and TV host. He was influenced by none other than his idol Elvis Presley and the 1950s rock revolution. For the last 40 years he has released an impressive forty albums; comprising twenty nine studio albums, three live albums and eight compilations. In the 1970’s and 1980’s his films were commercially triumphant and he was labelled as the king of the Italian box office in low budget movies. As an actor, he is most remembered for, Serafino (1968), directed by Pietro Germi, as his best acting performance. Adriano has been able to establish relevancy in Italy and that is quite an impressive resume.

His music is truly great and inspirational. As mentioned before a big shout-out to my dad for playing this type of music around me. You can sit back and enjoy the sounds. Some have even gone to great lengths as crowning him King of Italian Music. I know very little about Italian music but I do know what my ears enjoy listening too, and this is just great timeless music.



Mina & Adriano Celentano – Che T’aggia Di
This is a personal favourite of mine. I can’t tell you why but I love it. It’s a husband and wife engaged in some type of argument or dispute. It’s really incredible and quite catchy.


Adriano Celentano – Per Sempre

Adriano Celentano - Per Averti


Adriano Celentano - Amore No

Adriano Celentano - Susanna (Live in 2007)

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Locals Only: T.Shirt

This artist goes by the name of T.Shirt,  and believe me he has this confident, mellow, charismatic and gritty flow that is sure to win over your ears. His beat selection is quite impressive, full of soul and charisma.

What sets him apart from all the artists I've promoted on this blog is that he's very artistically creative. It was the first trait I picked up once I visited his blogs. He's quite intelligent and plus shows this humble love towards the arts whether it's music, photography and fashion.

"There's nothing better than making something with your friends. Sometimes, I just gotta forget about the outside world listening in and remember who I really made this for first and foremost. When I've rapped for myself in the past I never got the kind of response I wanted.. it's only when I rap for us.. when I take how I feel, what Darvin goes through, Dred, how Ronin's felt, my brothers.. I'm just trying to tell our story.. and I'm just trying to get it right.. inspire us. I think J Cole said it best, "My story ain't the only one I'm trying to tell" - that shit just rang so true to me. We are the tan-face children. We are the pioneers. Maybe you have to know all of us to understand.. maybe it gives you a familiar feeling." - T.Shirt

Keep this dude on your radar.


T.Shirt - Never LOL

T.Shirt - Hip Hop


Make sure you check him out on his: Twitter, Tumblr, IllRapper, BandCamp and his YouTube channel

    Tuesday, December 14, 2010

    The Remake of a Remake


    Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell - You're All I Need To Get By

    A classic to many soul music lovers this is the original version released in 1968.


    Method Man & Mary J Blige - You're All I Need

    In 1995, Meth & Mary J, re-released the classic that has carved it's name in the hearts of many hip hop heads. This song is full of memories and emotions. I enjoy it more than the original and that is a very bold statement.


    Wale & Tawiah - The Remake of a Remake (All I Need)

    In 2008 a new face emerges in the hip hop world, and he goes by the name of Wale. He released an incredible mixtape titled, The Mixtape About Nothing, that was inspired by Seinfeld, the series. The mixtape samples comprehensively from Seinfeld, and Wale delivers his verses with frequent references to jokes from the series. Actress Julia Louis-Dreyfus, who plays the character Elaine Benes in Seinfeld, appears on the mixtape. This song was my favourite on the mixtape, it's a great ode that mixes both classics into one.

    Sunday, December 12, 2010

    The Twilight Zone: The Eye of the Beholder

    In 1959 a popular half-hour American television anthology series created by Rod Serling titled The Twilight Zone that is noted for its moral messages that focused on humanity without going into political messages hit the Television air waves. Each episode is a mixture of self-reliant fantasy, science fiction or horror, frequently concluding with a surprising ending. Rod Serling was brilliantly cautious in making sure that the unexpected twist was not for its own sake, as it usually broadcasted irony with what had happened before.

    The Eye of the Beholder is one of The Twilight Zone's most adored and famous episodes, and with great reason; it's incredibly written, astoundingly executed, and packs a never forgetting fable like twist. While it's only a simple allegory, it plays an important role in symbolizing the superficial and judgmental mind of the Human race. The episode takes the form of a vessel that’s criticizing discrimination and segregation of our overly opinionated society.

    I don't want to ruin this amazing episode so I suggest you watch it.


    Part 1
    Part 2


    Part 3
    Part 4


    Does beauty lie in the eye of the beholder or are you living in the twilight zone?

    Saturday, December 11, 2010

    Mick Boogie & DJ Jazzy Jeff: Summertime

    Since I do miss the summer and I've already introduced Mick Boogie, one of my favourite DJ's, here are 49 songs that are expertly mixed, cut and transitioned by two of America’s most popular DJ’s, Mick Boogie & DJ Jazzy Jeff. The songs cover any and everything ‘summer’ related. 

    From songs about summer to songs that just feel like the sunshine season, this multi-genre mix will be sure to make your summer-less winter better! 

    Brought to you by UNDRCRWN and MTVTN.

    Click the photo to download the mixtape.
    1. Summertime Intro
    2. Kool & The Gang: Summer Madness (Live Version)
    3. Kool & The Gang: Summer Madness
    4. Quincy Jones: Summer In The City
    5. Ahmad: Back In The Day
    6. Ice Cube: It Was A Good Day
    7. Roy Ayers f/ Mary J Blige: Everybody Loves The Sunshine
    8. Pharcyde: Passin’ Me By (Ffej Remix)
    9. Jay-Z f/ Babyface: Sunshine
    10. Ramsey Lewis: Sun Goddess
    11. A Tribe Called Quest: Find A Way (Ffej String Edit)
    12: Bush Babies f/ Mos Def: The Love Song
    13. Jodeci: Get On Up
    14. The Commodores: High On Sunshine
    15. J Dilla f/ Dwele : Think Twice
    16. Erick Sermon f/ Marvin Gaye: Music (Mick’s Marvapella Edit)
    17. Bernard Wright: Who Do You Love
    18. LL Cool J: Loungin’
    19. A Tribe Called Quest: Hot Sex
    20. Main Source: Live At The BBQ
    21. Nuyorican Soul: Nautilus
    22. Pharcyde & Sublime: Summertime
    23. Fresh Prince and Jazzy Jeff: Summertime Remix
    24. Michael Jackson: I Can’t Help It
    25. De La Soul: Breakdawn
    26. Musiq: Just Friends
    27. Carl Thomas: Summer Rain
    28. Faze-O: Riding High
    29. Dionne Warwick: Walk On By
    30. Skee-Lo: I Wish
    31. Black Moon: Who Got The Props
    32. Frankie Beverly and Maze: Before I Let Go
    33. Nu Shooz: I Can’t Wait
    34. Montell Jordan: This Is How We Do It
    35: The Roots f/ George Benson: Breezin’
    36: Fresh Prince and Jazzy Jeff: Time To Chill
    37. Biggie: Can’t You See
    38. James Brown: The Payback
    39. En Vogue: My Lovin’
    40. Bobby McFerrin: Sunshine Of My Life
    41. Fifth Dimension: Let The Sun Shine In
    42. Mos Def: Sunshine
    43. Nine: Whatcha Want
    44. Otis Redding: Sittin’ On The Dock
    45. 2Pac: I Get Around (Mick’s String Edit)
    46. Zapp: Computer Love (Terry’s Mirage On The Water Mix)
    47. Seals And Croft: Summer Breeze
    48. Jay-Z: Dear Summer
    49. Weldon Irvine: Morning Sunrise

    Friday, December 10, 2010

    Mick Boogie And Terry Urban: Viva La Hova Re- Mastered

    - NYC-based Mick Boogie has quickly become one of the America's most in-demand DJ talents, expanding his DJ brand to include A-list events in Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Barcelona, Chicago, Beijing, Toronto, Paris, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Dubai and of course, New York City where he has graced the turntables at Avenue, Gold Bar, 1Oak, Greenhouse and more.

    All about pleasing the crowd, you’ll always hear a diversity of music at a Mick Boogie event… from 80s, rock & soul to disco, house & electro and of course, the hip-hop and mash-ups you’ve come to expect from Mick’s energetic performances. As more and more celebrities come calling for his services, Mick can be found spinning at parties for clients such as Will Smith, Nike, Red Bull, Lebron James, LVMH, Jay-Z, Serena Williams, The Grammy Foundation and more.

    Additionally, his creative mixtapes with artists such as Adele, Kanye West, Coldplay, Jay-Z and Sean “Diddy” Combs are considered “classics” and are the talk of both the street and the “blogosphere.” -


    Two years ago, Mick Boogie and Terry Urban set the music world on fire with an unprecedented mash-up of hip hop icon Jay-Z and English alternative rock group, Coldplay titled, Viva La Hova.  The project included production from the talented Mick Boogie, Terry Urban, 9th Wonder, Cookin’ Soul, The Kickdrums, nVMe, 6th Sense, Remot, Max Tannone, The Amps, Judah, CJ Luzi, Gooch, Garbs Infinite and Hasan Insane .

    Viva La Hova went on to generate hundreds of thousands of downloads, and receive approval around the world.  Jay-Z himself contacted Mick to notify him that he enjoyed the project while Coldplay shared a link of the project on their official website.


    Click the photo to download, Viva La Hova: Remastered

    1) Intro (produced by Mick Boogie & Terry Urban)
    2) One Ruler (produced by Max Tannone)
    3) Public Speeding (produced by Cookin’ Soul)
    4) Know My Place (produced by The Amps)
    5) Never Changing (produced by nVMe)
    6) Miss Trouble (produced by Judah)
    7) Back At My Place (produced by Remot)
    8) Lucifer And Friends (produced by CJ Luzi)
    9) A Spy’s Prayer (produced by nVMe)
    10) Science Is Ignorant (produced by Gooch)
    11) The Reverse Fix (produced by Mick Boogie & nVMe)
    12) Hola Blanco (produced by Garbs Infinite)
    13) Take The Hill (produced by nVMe)
    14) Lost Part 2 (remixed by Mick Boogie)
    15) Cold Success (produced by 9th Wonder)
    16) What If We Cry? (produced by Remot)
    17) No Love Coming Home (produced by The Kickdrums)
    18) Falling In Shadows (produced by 6th Sense)
    19) Life of Clocks (produced by Terry Urban)
    20) X-Y-Z (produced by Hasan Insane)

    Less Than Zero: Soundtrack

    Less Than Zero is a 1987 American drama film barely based on the novel of the same name by Bret Easton Ellis. The film stars Andrew McCarthy as Clay, a college freshman who is returning home for Christmas, when he found out that his girlfriend Blair (Jami Gertz) had been engaging in sexual conduct with his high school friend, Julian, (Robert Downey Jr.) who is also a drug addict. Now at Christmas, Clay discovers Blair is still trying to recreate the good times, as if nothing has happened while he was away and witnesses Julian sinking further into drugs and being harassed by his drug dealer to whom he owes money too.

    The movie highlights and explores the culture of wealthy youths in Los Angeles and enforces a strong anti-drug message. It is definitely worth a watch.

    This is the soundtrack,
    Enjoy!



    1. Aerosmith - Rockin' Pneumonia & The Boogie Woogie Flu


    2. Roy Orbison - Life Fades Away


    3. Poison - Rock And Roll All Nite


    4. LL Cool J - Going Back To Cali


    5. Glenn Danzig & the Power and Fury Orchestra - You And Me


    6. Slayer - In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida

    Like the fire needs the air, I won't burn unless you're there



    Maze, soul slash quiet storm band, was established in San Francisco, California in the early 1970s. It was founded by Frankie Beverly, Philadelphia native, who is an American singer, songwriter and producer. They have released six albums with five of them receiving Gold status sales.

    This is one of my favourite songs by Maze. It's titled "I Need You".


    "Like the flowers need the rain like a blind-man needs his cane, I need you
    Like the darkness needs the night and the moon-glow needs the light,I need you
    Like the children need to play they laugh and sing from day to day, I need you

    I found out about you I can't live without you


    Like a person needs a soul like the winter needs the cold, I need you

    Like the fire needs the air I won't burn unless your there, I need you

    Like a baby needs to cry if you go I swear I'll die, I need you"

    Fast forward a few years in the future and the song is sampled in the "Hustler's Ambition" record by 50 Cent. Believe me, this song will not disappoint as well.



    Thursday, December 9, 2010

    Nesby Phips

    Nesby Phips, Emcee/Producer from New Orleans, is the owner & operator of Bakadahouse Music, a production company which started in 2003, and long time associate of Curren$y. Last year Phips released the first edition of the Phips Files titled “The Phipstape”, but he’s mostly been recognized for the hard work he’s put in with underground heavyweight and childhood friend , Curren$y. The two have connected to make underground hits such as “Top of the Money”, “The Seventies”, “Lost in Transit”, “Mazaltov” & “Wave Race”.

    Not to be confused as a tag-along to the current success Curren$y is having but more of a contributor. This artist holds his own weight on the microphone. Nesby is one artist that you should keep on your radar.

    Production:

    Nesby Phips, Curren$y & Wiz Khalifa – Mazaltov

    Curren$y - Lost In Transit

    Curren$y – The Seventies

    Curren$y – Top of the Money

    Curren$y - Wave Race


    Emcee:

    BLUE AND GREEN from Creative Control on Vimeo.

    Curren$y ft. Nesby Phips: Prioritize (Beeper Bill) from Creative Control on Vimeo.


    Chess with Nesby Phips from Creative Control on Vimeo.

    Nesby Phips - Word To These Bo Jacksons (Prod. Ski Beatz) from Creative Control on Vimeo.

    Tuesday, December 7, 2010

    Dom Kennedy: Life As I Know It

    Here's a series started by Dom Kennedy.



    In other news this is an extend version of his Locals Only song.

    The Saviour: Jay Electronica

    There is a lot of speculation to whether Jay Elec will sell his soul once he enters the mainstream world. They believe MTV will change him. I strongly disagree.

    Let's say he did have a video on MTV. I can only see greatness coming from it.
    You have an artist who is keen on who he is. He knows what he represents. Can you imagine Jay Electronica giving you a visual for his Renaissance music?

    To me, Jay Elec is a reincarnation of Talib, Mos Def and Scarface.

    Why Scarface? Because Jay gives me that vibe. That real vibe. That everything I say is for my listeners.


    Jay is a product of real hip hop. Having somebody of his calibre have a video on MTV will be revolutionary. You'll have an artist who will not sell out. An MC who is independent and has a powerful voice in underground hip hop. Jay Elec may be the only hope of making underground the new commercial.

    That will be a day I desperately await because I'm tired of seeing Plies and Soulja Boy make videos and make music about irrelevant topics. I need powerful music. Music that exploits the ups and downs of life. Music that is real. Music with a feel. That club stuff is all cool, but real music is eternal.

    This is Jay Electronica, this 0:47 clip will convince you that he is the soul that might change how Hip Hop artists write their music. Exhibit A - Jay Electronica

    Here's some of his recent music.





    Khusara Khusara! We Be Big Pimpin !

    If you live in North America there is absolutely no way that you would never be able to hear this melody.


    Hossam Ramzy - Khusara Khusara

    What makes listening to this all the better is that I can actually recite the Jay-Z lyrics while listening to it. Not take anything away from Timbaland, but I think it would of have sounded better if the actual song was done this instrumental, the whole thing. It would give it such a authentic feel. Nonetheless, this an incredibly dope composition.


    And let's RI-I-I-I-I-IDE

    Middle School Love: Fabolous

    The middle school years where a big part of my life because they are the years that I really started to listen to Hip Hop, being a new immigrant and all. An artist that really caught my ear was, Fabolous.

    Fabolous really has a way with words whether it's speaking to the ladies, the clubs or just forming together punchlines. He's a great artist because he's consistent and he's flexible in his content. It's his signature laid back flow that capitalized his success.

    Now the videos. If you were born in 1990 and you're a fan of hip hop how can you not love these songs? Every dance played these, every girl liked these which means you have had to like these songs. These songs are tied to memories about crushes, lunch breaks and dances.


    Fabolous & Tamia - I'm So Into You


    Babygirl you know my situation..
    Fabolous, Lil Mo & Mike Shorey - Can't Let You Go


    Fabolous & Mike Shorey - Baby


    Fabolous, Jagged Edge & Diddy - Trade It All Part 2

    Keeping it across the globe

    Following my latest post, I remembered one song that has stuck to my head when I visited my family in Italy. I was in grade 7 and I don't know how to describe it but I have the feeling that this a sweet song. It's so warm and calming.

    Since the user has disabled embedding on YouTube, CLICK HERE to watch it.

    Enjoy!

    La Musica di Silenzio: Andrea Bocelli

    One of the great things about my father is his musical taste. He has this magical ear that prefers some of the best vocalists I have ever heard. His musical preference is quite amazing. He was raised on Italian music and to this day I thank him for playing them around me because the vocals and the composition of the music will be locked and sealed within my heart eternally. A perfect example of what music from the soul is.

    One of my favourite artists is Andrea Bocelli. Mr. Bocelli is a blind Italian tenor, multi-instrumentalist and classical crossover artist. The man is often credited with the most beautiful voice in the world. Truthfully, there is nothing I can conjure up and write that will truly capture the splendour of his voice and the bloom in his music. If you ever want to start your day on a positive note make sure his music is a part of your morning routine.

    Plus working at an Italian Banquet Hall for the last six years of my life has really helped me develop a strong liking for his music. The way they embrace his music and sing it word for word is such a priceless and motivating experience. I'm not Italian nor do I speak Italian but there is something about this language that is soothing.

    If you are a fan of contemporary music, best believe this artist will become a favourite of yours.


    Andrea Bocelli - La Voce Del Silenzio


    Andrea Bocelli - Sogno

    Listen to more by clicking here.

    Monday, December 6, 2010

    That New York Ish has a Foul Breeze

    Check out as these dope MC's manhandle this Faded Lady sample performed by Soul Sensual Orchestra.




    Busta Rhymes - New York ...





    Nas - Foul Breeze

    Sunday, December 5, 2010

    Creative Control: Ski Beatz & Curren$y


    This dynamic combo has made a huge impact on me. Best known for his work on the timeless classic, "Reasonable Doubt", Ski Beatz is a fan favourite when it comes to production in hip hop. Curren$y is a New Orleans veteran who is as of late receiving the attention he's always deserved. His lazy flow and eccentric rhyme plot and ostensibly thoughts have always been the pedigree of his appeal. Regardless of what subject he starts on, women and weed will eventually stroll its way into the verse. It’s part of the train-of-thought personality of his style. I don't personally support the lifestyle he promotes but I can't deny that musically his work is exceptional. This post will feature some of his recent videos which have all been directed by Creative Control.



    Curren$y - Audio Dope 2 from Creative Control on Vimeo.

    Curren$y ft. Fiend - Flying Iron from Creative Control on Vimeo.


    MICHAEL KNIGHT from Creative Control on Vimeo.

    Stalley & Curren$y: Address from Stalley330 on Vimeo.


    NOTHIN BUT US from Creative Control on Vimeo.

    Monday, November 29, 2010

    Erotic Queen: Madonna

    From trend setter to Pop Queen, musically Madonna has done it all. From giving birth to the styles of your modern day pop artists to composing the rhythm, voicing techniques and stylistic concerns all on musical staff paper.

    Name a female music artist that she hasn't influenced? The list ranges from the vulgarly sexual Lil Kim to the "Dirty" Christina Aguilera. Her provocative content and her daring personality is what set her apart from everybody else.

    This is the first video I ever saw of Madonna's. I can remember it because I was in Albania and I was about 10 years old and I immediately fell in love with her music.

    Keep in mind that I wasn't able to speak or understand English but was touched enough to feel the groove and incredible sound of her music and her ability to own any instrumental she ever laid vocals on.

    Do your research and believe me, whoever you find relevant now will soon become irrelevant and replaced by the Erotic Queen, Madonna.

    Saturday, November 27, 2010

    Rocksmith 60 Seconds: Nitty Scott MC

    Thanks to an anonymous comment on my Nitty Scott MC post, I was able to find a video of her running an acapella freestyle for Rocksmith Tokyo, clothing company. She's also their official model for their Holiday Delivery. This will serve as proof to prove to you that my comparisons weren't foolish.

    Rocksmith 60 Seconds: Nitty Scott MC from Rocksmith on Vimeo.


    Still not convinced yet? Don't worry, there's more to come.

    Friday, November 26, 2010

    If you're better off alone just say yeah you modern day hippie !



    Alice DeeJay, a Dutch electronic music group, released this single in 1999. It reached great commercial success. The song is titled "Better Off Alone".



    Wiz Khalifa sampled "Better Off Alone" in his 2008 single, "Say Yeah". Wiz, who of late is receiving overwhelming attention from people, started his commercial career with this song. The song feels more like a mashup between Eurotrance and Hip Hop which gives it an authentic feel. This is where it all started at.



    Later on Wiz Khalifa and Curren$y, the New Orleans veteran, released a collaborative mixtape in 2009 titled, "How Fly". But before that, Curren$y, released a mixtape titled, "Fast Times at Ridgemont Fly" which featured a remixed "Say Yeah" and "Modern Day Hippie" was born.

    I wish that somebody would blend in all three to create a dope mash up.

    Thursday, November 25, 2010

    1982: The Diamond Collection

    1982 (Statik Selektah & Termanology) Ft. Bun B & Masspike Miles "You Should Go Home" from John Colombo on Vimeo.

    1982 Ft. Cassidy & Xzibit "Goin Back" from john colombo on Vimeo.


    1982 (Statik Selektah & Termanology) "Still Waiting" from Clockwork Music on Vimeo.

    1982 (Statik Selektah & Termanology) Boston Listening Party from Clockwork Music on Vimeo.


    Termanology has a lyrical arsenal that would equal a battalion of the United States Army. This is one gifted young lyricist. Statik Selektah is a East Coast-based DJ and Producer with soulful instrumentals that feature authentic boom boom bap patterns.

    These two artists are 1982. They recently released a album under the same title that is well received by critics and fans. Definitely worth a listen.

    Wednesday, November 24, 2010

    Time of Origin: Jay-Z



    The now 40 year old Shawn Carter is only a shadow of his former self. This post takes a look at the non-commercial cuts on previous albums that have solidified Jay-Z as one of the present day Kings of this culture to Hip Hop Heads.


    This song serves a letter Hov has mentally written to hip hop and saying his goodbyes by reminiscing the path of his career. "Dear summer, I know you're going to miss me, for we've been together like Nike Airs and crisp tees."


    Perhaps my favourite song by Hov. The lyrics speak for themselves. Verbally painting on a canvas of the glitter-gold mind state of fame seekers. Claiming that money and fame isn't what it seems. Definitely a overlooked classic.


    A reflection concerning the craving for money, lust and power that infects the mind of ghetto tenants which leads to betrayal, bloodshed and death.


    Two sentimental verses that craft and capture the emotions on Jay's previous love, plus a final verse deciphering the shame he's brought to his mother.


    Name a artist who has recorded a autobiography as dope as this? It's okay, I'll wait.


    Hustler's anthem. "Plead the fifth when it comes to the fam, I'm like a dog, I never speak, but I understand." "I never change, this is always me. From the womb to the tomb, from now until my doom."


    Honestly, the production makes this song 10 times better.

    I know, I'm missing a few but don't worry they'll make their way into this blog, I promise.

    Tuesday, November 23, 2010

    Jay, 50, and Weezy




    David Augustine aka Dee-1 is a graduate from Louisiana State with a Bachelors in marketing, he began teaching middle school as a way of funding his passion for music. The strong bond he built with his students, even as his notoriety as a local artist began to grow, made him realize that being Dee-1 gave him a much larger platform to enlighten than being Mr. Augustine and so, his career choice was made.

    Since then he has released three successful mixtapes, Still We Rise, I Am Who I Am and I Hope They Hear Me, and one independent album, David & Goliath, which was nominated for Hip Hop Album of the Year by Offbeat magazine. He's also performed alongside high status hip-hop artists, Lil Wayne, Drake, Lupe Fiasco, Trey Songz, Akon, Talib Kweli and many more. Show your support by checking out his YouTube and his Blog

    What I like about this artist is that he's not trying to fit in and place himself in a sub-category under hip Hop. He's actually penning lyrics about his thoughts.

    This song is essentially innovative, truthful and deep. I make those claims because upon reading the title of the song, I thought that it would most likely be a song with a screwed up hook and another artist taking a shot to fame. Upon listening to it, Dee-1 brilliantly rhymes questions and statements to these big artist about their choices and claims.