Royalty Magazine

The Rapsody Poetic

2012-02-01T08:24:00.000-08:00

Don’t blink or they’ll be gone. It’s an epidemic that’s been plaguing us for quite a while. We sometimes forget about it but I’d like to draw your attention to a new development, a possible solution to the problem.

What’s the problem?

An endangered species

A species whose numbers are so few, or are declining so quickly, that the animal, plant, or other organism may soon become extinct.

Female rappers were, for a while, in that number. I’m not so stupid to say that deforestation or not enough food is the reason for it.

It has been mostly because the industry has been dominated by the male of the species, an ever changing landscape, and females being pigeonholed into just rapping about sex and suggestive things. For a long while I believed they were a hair’s breath away from extinction.

Then, almost as if by osmosis, they returned.

Nicki Minaj, Kreayshawn, Jean Grae. They were women on the rise hoping to bring it back into the court of the ladies.

Another member of that movement is the North Carolina rapper Rapsody.

Rapsody was born Marlanna Evans on January 21. She is currently signed to 9th Wonder’s Jamla Records imprint under his It’s A Wonderful World Music Group (IWWMG).

She began her career as a member of North Carolina based hip-hop group Kooley High. Rapsody then embarked on a solo career in 2008.

Despite the fact that she’s only been active about three to four years the artists she has worked with reads like a who’s who of amazing talent.

Thus far she’s worked with Erykah Badu, Mac Miller, Estelle, Jean Grae, Phonte, Marsha Ambrosius, Raekwon, Murs, Geechi Suede (of Camp Lo), Big Daddy Kane, Rah Digga, Buckshot, Big K.R.I.T., Kendrick Lamar, Freeway, Statik Selektah, DJ Premier, and super producer Nottz.

Quite a list.

Rapsody’s first significant career breakthrough came with the release of her mixtape Return Of The B-Girl. She continued to build up a fan base with the release of Thank H.E.R. Now. This mixtape displayed her storytelling skills as she drew from personal experiences.

Her next project was For Everything, released on November 15, 2011.

Rapsody’s style tends to favor intricate rhyming patterns, metaphors, and wordplay. She cites not only 9th Wonder but Jay-Z, Mos Def, Lauryn Hill, and MC Lyte as the biggest influences on her music.

As with so many her debut studio album is coming this year. This young woman is a part of the movement that’s bringing women back to the forefront of hip-hop.

Let the Rapsody continue…

THE INCREDIBLE…David Banner

2012-02-01T08:14:00.000-08:00

I have favorite rappers like you’d have favorite sports teams.

My favorite baseball team? I don’t have one.

Favorite football team(s)? Firstly I am a New England Patriot to my heart, followed by the Atlanta Falcons and Philadelphia Eagles.

Favorite basketball team? The Boston Celtics.

As far as rappers go I have numerous rappers that I really like. OutKast, T.I., Curren$y, Rick Ross, 2 Chainz, Cyhi Da Prynce, Big K.R.I.T. and many others. But the rapper I have loved consistently is Lavell Crump.

He is the rapper/producer known as David Banner.

Ever since Mississippi: The Album I have been on the bandwagon. As with anyone who followed his career after this point it was “Like A Pimp”, a collaboration with Houston, TX rapper Lil’ Flip that opened the door. That track was addictive back then. The beginning drums always seemed to catch your ear and put your body in motion.

Of all his studio albums I loved MTA2: Baptized In Dirty Water. That one was something that made my head nod with each repeated playing.

“Crank It Up” was excitement forced into a short amount of time with the late Static Major lending his voice to the chorus and every so often in the song. This song displayed Banner’s reckless and wild delivery, the Mississippi heavy in every syllable.

“Gots To Go” is the sort of rap song that speaks of the road and its effect on women who the rappers featured might encounter, be it the mother of someone’s child or just a random groupie. It is without a doubt misogynistic but it is so well done that I can look past that.

“Lil’ Jones” is my favorite on the entire album. Atlanta native Bonecrusher and Banner pass the verses back and forth with their particular Southern drawls heavy in the rhymes. It plays like a perfect volley that I scarcely wanted to end.

After this album came Certified and The Greatest Story Ever Told. Beautiful projects as well.

Another favorite was Banner’s collaboration with 9th Wonder called Death Of A Pop Star. Both were admittedly passionate about it and that made me anxious to hear it.

I heard it and loved it.

“Slow Down” was my jam.

I woke up in Heaven with my baby…

Between trying to get his Master’s degree and championing hip-hop he is prepping MTA3: The Trinity Movement.

I cannot wait for another CD from Banner, my first favorite rapper.

Memories Museum (3)

2012-02-01T08:13:00.000-08:00

I am the child of memory. Those things that you remember are often amazing and surprising sometimes. For example I remember riding in the back of my mom’s ‘piece of crap’ (her words, not mine) Oldsmobile listening to Michael Bolton tapes and Anita Baker heavily. I think that where I first learned to love everything and everyone in music. It might even surprise you that I know the words to Fleetwood Mac songs as well as rap lyrics.

This was her way, although she’d never said it, of making us (that is, my sister and I) eclectic people. I like to be so bold as to think that it works.

But music has always been tied to memory. You tend to remember the good albums.

Case in point…

School days were interesting. In elementary the school was right around the corner. Except for the days where it was raining my sister and I walked to Francis Bartow Elementary without fail. And in the same way we walked home, weather permitting.

Middle school was a bit different.

I had to catch the bus to George W. DeRenne Middle School, waking up at about six in the morning. The bus ride there was a silent affair because I doubt anyone of us on the bus were morning people.

The ride back was a totally different affair.

We shared the bus with high school students from Alfred E. Beach High School. They brought the bus to life in the afternoon.

Them and the radio.

The radio stayed on the local hip-hop radio station in Savannah.

E93 or 93.1

It was there that I started to get my hip-hop education. I heard the greats like 2Pac and Biggie. I mean, you cannot have a hip-hop station without them. Then I got introduced to the regions and their differences.

My first Southern hip-hop from Georgia was OutKast.

That was quickly followed up by YoungBloodz.

The song that I heard was “85”. Something about the beat just invaded me as if they’d walked into my cerebellum. It was amazing, everything about it. The chorus and Cutty’s voice on it.

I know you’re waiting for Daddy/It won’t be long, shorty/Be patient ‘cause he’s coming for you/Dirty on 85...

Big Boi’s feature just seemed to accentuate things so perfectly. Seeing him outside of OutKast was weird to me at first but I loved it all the same.

My favorite part was this one:

Now I’m scraping the wall/ Shorty ain’t got on no drawers/Now I’m breaking the law/ Trying to get with this broad/I don’t know what it is/But shorty fine as hell/The slum type that I like/Straight from ATL/Shorty yeah

Humming it now makes me smile to this day….

Memories Museum (1)

2012-02-01T08:09:00.000-08:00

I am the child of memory. Those things that you remember are often amazing and surprising sometimes. For example I remember riding in the back of my mom’s ‘piece of crap’ (her words, not mine) Oldsmobile listening to Michael Bolton tapes and Anita Baker heavily. I think that’s where I first learned to love everything and everyone in music. It might even surprise you that I know the words to Fleetwood Mac songs as well as rap lyrics.

This was her way, although she’d never said it, of making us (that is, my sister and I) eclectic people. I like to be so bold as to think that it worked.

But music has always been tied to memory. You tend to remember the good albums.

Case in point…

I think I saw one of those twelve CD deals for penny flyers in the back of an EBONY magazine. Being younger and being a kid I filled it out with a fraudulent name and sent off for them.

Lucius B. Kennedy was the alias back then.

I had completely forgotten about them until my mom had shown me the package. It was pretty foolish for me to even attempt to say it wasn’t me. Hell, I was the only in the house whose name started with an L. So I was honest about it.

She didn’t strike me as angry. She was willing to laugh it off.

This was until she opened the box.

Dammit.

The discs in the box were: Ludacris, Beyonce, Steely Dan, Barry White, OutKast, Sean Paul, Incubus, U2, R. Kelly, Jaheim, and some others that elude me.

She let my sister keep the music I’d promised her, despite the parental advisory labels. I guess she figured that Sean Paul’s accent made him unintelligible enough that any profanity he used would be overlooked. The R. Kelly thing may have been a mistake given her age. But that’s neither here nor there.

Mom gladly took the Barry White and the Steely Dan since she a was lifelong fan. She’d even grown to like Jaheim due to radio airplay and the distance she had to drive to work.

The Incubus and U2 were given over without much argument. Same with the Beyonce CD. When we reached Luda and OutKast she immediately took them.

“I don’t want you listening to that rap crap…”

Eventually I found them and I was singing the lyrics to Word Of Mouf and Stankonia religiously.

(Quietly, of course…)

This was until Mom caught me and soundly thrashed me.

Ahh, wonderful memories…

Memories Museum (2)

2012-02-01T08:08:00.000-08:00

I am the child of memory. Those things that you remember are often amazing and surprising sometimes. For example I remember riding in the back of my mom’s ‘piece of crap’ (her words, not mine) Oldsmobile listening to Michael Bolton tapes and Anita Baker heavily. I think that where I first learned to love everything and everyone in music. It might even surprise you that I know the words to Fleetwood Mac songs as well as rap lyrics.

This was her way, although she’d never said it, of making us (that is, my sister and I) eclectic people. I like to be so bold as to think that it works.

But music has always been tied to memory. You tend to remember the good albums.

Case in point…

I went to high school in Savannah, GA. Being that most people who read this might know what or where Herschel V. Jenkins High School is I say it for the sake of just highlighting a place where I spent four wonderful years. Around sophomore year after I’d gotten most of the delinquency out of my system I joined NJROTC (Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps for those who do not know). Suffice to say I fit in rather well. I was active on a few teams and eventually made officer (my rank being ensign) at the beginning of my senior year.

Being that graduation was fast approaching we had an end of the year trip. By luck of the draw I ended up in a room with a bunch of my fellow officers. One had his iPod and the dock so we had music. At one point a bestial track pumped through the room.

I had to know what it was.

I looked at the iPod and smiled.

“Top Back” by T.I.

I had previously been in love with “Rubberband Man” and “Do It”.

This song, this KING album just reinforced what I already knew. As the trip went on I found myself with one line from that song on perpetual repeat in my head.

The line?

It’s Pimp Squad Click/I know y’all heard about us/Young niggas filthy rich/And we ain’t worried ‘bout much/On this Glock I clutch/In God I trust/If a fuck nigga start/Then his heart I’ll bust

That line was what really made me go out and actually purchase the album.

The only regret I have is that I bought it from Wal-Mart.

More good memories…

The Volume In The ‘Echoes’

2012-02-01T08:02:00.000-08:00

His praises have been sung by MTV, BET, Rolling Stone, XXL, The Source, and 2DopeBoyz. They have all dubbed him the "Songbird of his Generation", as well as the "best musical talent since Michael Jackson" (John Norris, MTV).

I quoted this rave review in a previous story. A ‘Weeknd’ Warrior was the title. When I read the review I was a bit skeptical of that outlandish statement. My thinking was pretty short sided. In my mind to compare anyone to the late (still hard to write that) Michael Jackson, The King Of Pop, is tantamount to the basest form of blasphemy. But as a writer I had to look at this from a neutral standpoint. I needed to put my previous notions aside to really listen and digest The Weeknd’s album.

So I started with Echoes Of Silence.

The first song on the nine track album?

“D.D.”

When I heard what the song was there was a certain level of providence. “D.D.” was “Dirty Diana”. I loved the Michael Jackson version but I was going to give The Weeknd’s version a fair shake.

So I listened.

I am glad that I did.

“D.D.” takes a Michael Jackson standard and somehow manages to pay homage to our greatest musical legend while staying true to The Weeknd’s eclectic and unique style. When you listen to the original “Dirty Diana” you are caught up in the slow building of that story about treacherous Diana. Somehow Weend borrows and perfectly emulates the vibe while making it a contemporary piece.

Aristotle once said that all art is imitation. Here we see that The Weeknd does not try to trace MJ’s work, rather looks at it and freehand draws a wonderful interpretation.

That hooked me.

“Initiation” was a favorite. The voice changes blends so well and so flawlessly it is almost not noticeable. Here there is no need for guest features or transplanted verses. This is all him in his eerily haunting delivery of purest beauty. It is a vocal kaleidoscope that plays with elements of DJ Screw’s wildest codeine induced fantasies.

“Next” is the final song I will feature. This is a track that causes a chain reaction within you. It moves from your head, down to your shoulders. It has a haunting quality despite the heartbreaking theme of it. And like any good haunt it refuses to let you go. As with all the songs he needs very little music to capture you perfectly. People often forget that the voice is the most amazing instrument but The Weeknd keeps his tuned and playing flawlessly.

Maybe they were right about him, readers.

I’ll reserve the final judgment until after I listen to House Of Balloons and Thursday. I will say that he’s making me a believer.

Rapper, Teacher, Actor, Father

2012-02-01T08:01:00.001-08:00

Tinker, Tailor, Soldier Spy is a 1974 British spy novel by John le Carre, featuring George Smiley. Smiley is a middle-aged, taciturn, perspicacious intelligence expert in forced retirement. He is recalled to hunt down a Soviet mole in the “Circus”, the highest echelon of the Secret Intelligence Service (SIS). In keeping with le Carre’s work, the narrative begins in media res (Latin phrase meaning “into the middle of things“) with the repatriation of a captured British spy. The background is supplied through a series of flashbacks.

I reference this to make a point.

And to borrow the theme of le Carre’s I will start in the middle.

We find Bernard Freeman relaxing with wife Angela Walls and his two stepchildren at home. At home he’s Dad or honey.

To us he’s Bun B.

But he’s more than that.

Bun B is firstly a rapper, one half of the legendary Southern hip-hop group UGK with the late Chad Butler (Pimp C). This group is responsible or a lager part of defining what the iconic Southern hip-hop subgenre sounds like. He also enjoys a successful solo career, began during Pimp C’s incarceration and continued after his tragic passing. In both walks in hip-hop stardom he has given us hits that we will also carry with us.

As a part of UGK we were given “The Game Belongs To Me” and “One Day” to name a few.

In his solo career we were gifted with “You’re Everything” and “Get Throwed”.

He is also a teacher as well. Starting in the spring semester of 2011, Bun B joined the faculty of Rice University as a Distinguished Lecturer. He taught a course in the School of the Humanities on Hip-Hop and Religion.

There are also credits as an actor. He acted in the straight-to-DVD movie “Ghetto Stories: The Movie”. At current it is unknown as to whether he is still pursuing an active acting career.

And of course he is a father and a husband. It can be also noted that one of his stepsons is American rapper Young B, who is currently a member of the rap group Youngest N Charge. The group currently serves as Bun B’s opening act.

A legend wears many hats. Nowhere is this truer than in this Port Arthur, Texas native. I love the fact that despite his already impressive credentials he hasn’t gotten too comfortable or too lazy.

K.R.I.T.’s Construction

2012-02-01T07:55:00.000-08:00

To build up anything it starts with a very strong foundation. A structure or anything built upon unsteady footing, unsteady ground runs the large risk of falling.

With that logic in mind let me tell you a story.

There is a young man from Meridian, Mississippi by the name of Justin Scott. In the music world he went by the name Big K.R.I.T. As fate would have it the name K.R.I.T. is an acronym for King Remembered In Time. This, however, is irrelevant to the story at hand.

He releases mixtapes that are usually received with stellar reviews. One such is K.R.I.T. Wuz Here, released in May 2010. He also guest stars on other mixtapes, further adding to the foundations of something greater to come. But the best of his mixtapes was to come…

Let us list some of those mixtapes that served at the beginning, the catalyst for his most acclaimed work to date:

-See Me At The Top-Released July 20, 2005
-See Me At The Top II-Released December 21, 2005
-Hood Fame-Released August 11, 2006
-See Me At The Top III-December 10, 2008
-The Last King-Released May 15, 2009
-K.R.I.T. Wuz Here-Released May 4, 2010

In 2011 he was featured as XXL Top Eleven Freshmen of 2011 alongside others such as Meek Mill, Cyhi Da Prince, Lil’ Twist, Yelawolf, Fred The Godson, Mac Miller, YG, Lil’ B, Kendrick Lamar, and Diggy Simmons.

March 2011 also saw the release of the highly anticipated Return of 4eva. The mixtape was acclaimed by rap critics across the board.

William Ketchum of HipHopDX called it “emotive, conceptual music” and said that Big K.R.I.T. has given fans a “free album”-the magazine’s highest praise for a mixtape.

Matthew Cole of Slant Magazine highlighted Return of 4eva in his mixtape review column as “the best mixtape of the month”, going on in a separate review to call it “the rap album to beat in 2011”.

Both go so far as to say that Big K.R.I.T.’s production skill is amazing as well as his lyrics and flow, each naming him the likely successor to Southern rap legends UGK, Scarface, and OutKast.

And the foundation has been set.

All that is left is to build upon it.

This year marks the release of K.R.I.T.’s debut studio album entitled Live From The Underground.

With a strong foundation built and no big bad wolves around to blow the house down, he may build it and live happily ever after.

The end.

The Understanding

2012-02-01T07:48:00.000-08:00

If given the opportunity anything can become more than what it was originally thought to be. A seed only when nurtured has the chance to become a flower or a tree. This process often takes a mere bit of patience and a bit more understanding.

Sometimes I feel the same sort of logic should be applied to other things.

The example of which I speak applies to, as with many of my articles, a certain musical composition.

In this case Kanye West.

On November 10, 2007 West’s mother Donda died of complications from cosmetic surgery involving abdominoplasty and breast augmentation. This procedure was discouraged by Beverly Hills surgeon Andre Aboolian due to Donda West having heart problems. Another surgeon, Jan Adams, performed the procedure. She was fifty-eight years old.

(Being a man who is close to his mother I understand the pain of this loss as great as Kanye did.)

As a result of this loss and many other emotions, Kanye West released 808s And Heartbreak as a way of releasing all these sentiments.

The reception for this effort is, or rather was, mixed. The thoughts here ranged from anticipation to bewilderment and indifference. The unveiling of the lead single “Love Lockdown” at the 2008 MTV Music Video Awards. Music audiences were taken aback by the uncharacteristic production style and the presence of Auto-Tune. This negative sentiment increased when he revealed that the entire album would be mainly sung with the Auto-Tune effect as opposed to his usual rapping and it focused mostly on themes of love and heartbreak.

Numerous hip-hop fans and certain rappers mocked West for being “sappy” while others deemed the upcoming LP ~~a throwaway experimental album that was below their notice~~.

This is where a lack of patience and understanding come into play.

Being that I still have the presence of my mother in my life I cannot say what I would do if put into the same situation. Kanye West wrote what it was he felt as a way of exorcising his personal demons.

It would behoove fans and artists alike to remember that rappers are still ARTISTS. As such they make music for us but they make music for themselves as well. I respect the fact that West forgoes the norm to make something new and original. It’s very rare that artists are willing to do that anymore.

Why?

Because most are too hung up on sales and an image.

Plus they know that the larger consensus of fans won’t (or can’t) understand.

Cole, Diamonds, And Gold

2012-02-01T07:46:00.001-08:00

Every road starts with the steps we take. That first one tends to be the hardest one more often than not. I myself remember that first step I made in college. I shook like a leaf on a tree but somehow I made that first one. After that the second was difficult but nowhere near as difficult as the first. All the steps following were easier but took something of me.

For a rapper this is no different.

You make the steps, unsure of what the next one will entail despite that uncertainty that you get. But you press on. Sometimes it yields wonderful fruit.

These are the fruits of his work.

Signing to The Roc.

The Come-Up.

The Warm-Up.

Friday Night Lights.

“Who Dat”

Cole World: A Sideline Story.

These are the steps which North Carolina rapping phenom J. Cole has been taking towards his success. Each of his mixtapes touts impressive content as well as songs that tend to stick in your consciousness very well.

My favorite thus far has been The Warm-Up.

“Losing My Balance” is a personal favorite, along with “Dreams”, “A Dollar And A Dream“, and “I Get Up”.

Friday Night Lights brought us that Drake assisted “In The Morning”.

Two of the above mentioned songs (“A Dollar And A Dream“ and “In The Morning”) made it onto his debut album along with countless other wonderful tracks. I was truly feeling his big studio debut with an immensity of excitement I haven’t had in a while. It was a fire akin to the one I felt when I purchased both Untitled by Nas and Tha Carter III by Lil’ Wayne.

As he basks in the moment, the ‘flashing lights’ that label affiliate Kanye West once described playing all around him I wonder does he ponder over the next steps.

I once wrote a story about the follow-up curse and how it often hits artists. As J. Cole languishes in his current successes I pray that he ponders over such things. Personally I am of the mind that this talented soul will be above that sort of nonsense. As always I allow for the fact that I, being human, can be wrong as anyone.

So we come to an impasse, a fork in the road where we cannot tell what is to come.

Either the next step will be glorious or it he will truly live in a Cole world.

A New Kid On The Block

2012-02-01T07:46:00.000-08:00

“That nigga Lex Luger…”

No, I don’t mean the wrestler of WWF/E and WCW fame.

I am of course referring to the producer who has been putting in a lot of work within the hip-hop community. His production trademark (that is, that little blurb this article began with) appealed to me but his sound and his production skills was what made me want to learn about the guy.

Here’s what I got…

Born Lexus Arnel Lewis, Luger was born on March 6, 1991 in Suffolk, VA. At current he is signed to the 1017 Brick Squad label. He started his career playing drums and learning the basics such as beats, measures, and bars. He then began experimenting with an MPC 2000 that he purchased from his uncle only to later begin using the PC-based digital audio workstation Fruity Loops.

He still uses it to this day.

The beginning, your first major production is always the best. With Luger there is no exception.

Waka Flocka Flame’s “Hard In The Paint” was his first instrumental to hit the radio airwaves. Luger was in Atlanta when he first heard the song playing.

Also while in Atlanta he received a phone call from Kanye West, unaware of who he was talking to for at least thirty minutes. Upon realizing to who he was speaking he enthusiastically agreed to fly to New York City to work with West. He eventually created eight backing beats for Kanye to use, including the beat for the single “H.A.M.”

Not too shabby, right?

He has produced tracks for Drake, Slim Thug, Ace Hood, and of course Waka Flocka Flame.

To me his most impressive credit is this one:

Lex Luger is responsible for production of Rick Ross’ juggernaut “BMF (Blowin’ Money Fast)”. For someone only two years in the industry this is a major coup.

As it currently stands Lex Luger touts an impressive catalogue of production credits. The last two years have been blessed.

Moreover he is getting to work with other artists such as Juicy J, Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, Soulja Boy, Lil’ Wyte, and many others.

Greatness never comes without the work and it is obvious to me that Lex Luger, despite his short time in the game, is putting in the work necessary. As 2012 begins to pick up and we head slowly into a new month I am left to wonder what we can expect next from this young man. If his past work is any indication, nothing short of amazing things are coming.

A Jet’s Life

2012-02-01T07:41:00.000-08:00

You have to respect a man who can stand on his own two feet and take the chance to do things for himself. That particular statement can apply to any man (or women for the sake of not being gender biased) who steps out on faith and strength of character.

In this particular instance I am talking about a man.

The man?

Shante Scott Franklin. You’d probably know him as Curren$y.

The New Orleans born rapper started his music career in 2002 signed to Master P’s now defunct No Limit Records as a member of the 504 Boyz. Curren$y appeared on at least five tracks on Master P’s Good Side, Bad Side album in 2004. As impressive as this is this isn’t what made me admire the guy.

We’re getting there.

In late 2004 he signed with Cash Money Records and Lil’ Wayne’s Young Money Entertainment. He would remain there until 2007. He released the single “Where Da Cash At”, a song that was to serve as the lead single for his Young Money debut, Music To Fly To. But in the face of several delays and lack of promotion Curren$y decided to leave the label, venturing off to do business on his own.

THAT is what impressed me about Curren$y. Young Money is rather big at the moment and the idea of walking away from the label seems ludicrous. But he persevered.

In 2008 he released a series of mixtapes. And despite the growing hype in major publications major labels still overlooked him. His milestone came when his video for “Address” was played on MTV as well as the Mos Def produced “Breakfast”. Soon after taking on the industry on his terms he gained notoriety for his work with Wiz Khalifa on the How Fly mixtape. His fan base expands constantly due to his original, laid-back flow often coupled with soothing, spacey beats.

Amalgam Digital made his debut album possible, an effort called This Ain’t No Mixtape.

Six albums and numerous mixtapes later and Curren$y hasn’t come down yet. Three more albums are forthcoming.

Through a label deal with Warner Bros. Records he started his own imprint, Jet Life Recordings. Here he has signed such artists as Young Roddy, Smoke DZA, Sir Michael Rocks (of The Cool Kids), and Trademark Da Skydiver.

This is a true story of one man’s desire to succeed and how he did it on his own terms and without the support of a major label.

This Jet looks to never come down after an initial rough takeoff.

The Comeback Kid?

2012-02-01T07:35:00.001-08:00

Opportunity knocks.

The stars align somehow.

Whatever the reason some people are given, rather blessed, with success by God. When I say that I mean that God allows us the chance. It is up to us to be willing to step out on faith and grasp it. A sure way to do that is to be featured in a major publication. XXL is the one of which I speak of now.

Every year like clockwork the magazine publishes the hip-hop freshman of that particular year. In the year 2009 they named four people for this prestigious honor: B.o.B., Asher Roth, Wale, and Charles Hamilton. Of these four three are most active.

What of Charles Hamilton?

I began digging his sound after my first hearing “Brooklyn Girls”. Based on the fact that each of his fellows have albums out I was expecting Hamilton to make it a perfect square. Disappointment ensued when it wasn’t to be.

But when you really look at what was going on with his life, you can sympathize with his struggle.

In 2009 Hamilton was prepping his studio debut entitled This Perfect Life, released through Interscope Records. Digitally it was to be released on June 23, 2009 and the physical copy would be in stores August 25, 2009. He looked to be on the way to greatness.

But controversy came in the form of J. Dilla. The album covers named the deceased producer as an executive producer. A group of Dilla’s close friends began speaking out against Hamilton’s use of the name and its connection to his music. J. Dilla’s name was later removed due to legal reasons. Months of speculation pass and the album was shelved due to Hamilton being released from Interscope on September 19, 2009 for reasons unknown. It was however leaked digitally to many websites.

Mixtapes kept coming but no studio album was forthcoming for Hamilton. There was an arrest and a rehab stint. As of September 22, 2011 he was discharged from rehab.

I am unsure of what happens next with Charles Hamilton. In an ideal world he would be seen as the pure talent that he is and be picked up by a major label. But this world is just flawed enough for him to fall through the cracks. The simple fact that this is a possibility hurts me to no end.

The only thing we can do now is watch, wait, and hope. Maybe Charles Hamilton will prove himself a comeback kid. Only time will tell on that one.

Once In A Lifetime…

2012-02-01T07:35:00.000-08:00

Notoriety is an interesting sort of balm. On one hand it is wonderful to be known for something that you’ve done. Somehow I feel that despite their desire to change something or make particular situations better inventors subconsciously crave notoriety. This can be said of anyone who does anything for any reason.

Even myself.

I write these articles not only for the love of a culture or for money. Everything is written out of a need for someone to know who I am. It’d be interesting and a huge ego boost to hear someone say “Oh my God. I love your articles…”

The dark side of notoriety is usually called infamy. December 7th is a day that FDR once said “will live in infamy”. Criminals are infamous but often immortalized in film or in writing, Jesse James and Frank Lucas being the examples my mind first stumbles upon.

A less substantial level of that would be being known for one thing, one act.

Most murders have that dubious honor.

One hit wonders have the same.

I know there have been many hip-hop artists we’ve seen with a one popular record only for them to fade into the backdrop. It’s a sad fact but it’s a part of the fickle nature of the industry.

Sometimes the song is a novelty song like “Lookin’ Boy”. The song was funny but we all silently knew that there was no happy ending for a group that pointed out “Raz B lookin’” boys or “Mike Vick lookin’” boys. It was probably only destined for them to have that one hit.

Sometimes it’s the one song that they know you for and you try so hard not to get lost in the dying lights of your career. DJ Unk will forever be known as the man who brought us “Walk It Out”, a take on the Atlanta dance called the Pool Palace. The success with the other songs was marginal. We may have like “2 Step” a bit, maybe even enjoyed the remix for its features. But everyone knows Unk for his debut single. And through no fault of his own that will never change.

“Tatted Up” and “Party Like A Rockstar” join this list as well.

Despite the stigma the phrase ‘one hit wonder’ brings I have found a silver lining, albeit a smaller one:

At least you can say that you had one hit. It’s a Pyrrhic victory truly but a victory all the same.

Whose Line Is It Anyway?

2012-02-01T07:29:00.001-08:00

The culture of hip-hop has grown to include so many things. Chains have always been a part of the culture, a symbol of affluence and money. Money has had the same sort of grasp on the genre.

Diamonds, fancy cars, snappy punch lines, and good clothes.

Another part that I have been really been digging as of late are the ad libs. You know, the sounds rappers do before they start rapping. It’s sort of like a signature or a fingerprint that is unique to them. These are fun so I wanted to point out a few if that’s OK. Here we go, readers.

The ad lib I think I dig the most would have to be a three way tie. First one I’d like to mention would be that guttural grunt that Rick Ross does. That in and of itself is fun to do. Try it. I think that would be the reason it has such a grip on me. Another favorite would be Cyhi The Prynce’s statement of his name.

“Cy-Hi…”

It loses something in translation but it’s a definitely cool thing. The last would be when Tity Boi exclaims “TWO CHAINZ!!” He’s one of my favorite rappers right now so that’s why I love that so much. Plus it hits well sonically.

It was a recent thing, me actually paying real attention to these ad libs but subconsciously I guess we all pay attention.

That little ugly laugh Jadakiss does at the beginning of a rap is ingrained in your memory whether you know it or not. You come to expect it every time he raps. On the same token when fellow D Block member Styles P is about to rap he says some variation of the statement “SP the Ghost…”

Ludacris tends to keep it simple by just screaming “Luda!”. The simplicity has been working for him this long so why should he change it. I don’t like the bird call thing that Birdman tends to do but it’s him so I cannot knock it too much. Lil’ Wayne’s ad libs are a bit more dubious to tie down. It varies from that weird little gremlin laugh he does to “Young Moolah, baby…”, “Young Weezy, baby…”, “Weezy F.”, or “Tunechi”. You just have to take as it lies there. Usher Raymond does it simple too. “Yeah, man…”

The annoying end of the ad lib spectrum has Big Sean saying “Boy…” which for a while I thought was a grown man saying “Boing…”. My mistake for misunderstanding the mumbling. To date the most annoying ad lib belongs to Trey Songz. He annoys me with “Yupp!!” and the almost stalker like “C‘mere…”.

Ad libs are hip-hop culture and yet another way an artist distinguishes themselves. Maybe I should get myself an ad lib. I just hope it’s well received.

Lil’ Jon?! What? Okay!

2012-02-01T07:29:00.000-08:00

There’s a void in the hip-hop community. It’s a niche that is desperate need of filling. Some try their hardest to fit in but it’s not the same. I speak of course of the missing crunk element in hip-hop. Its creator, its master Lil’ Jon is absent on the scene.

I say often that thoughtful hip-hop is good but hip-hop is more than just that. It is bass, fun, contemplative, and so many other things.

For want of a better term hip-hop has schizophrenia, maybe a multiple personality disorder.

For a large expanse of time Lil’ Jon and his Eastside Boyz hyped the club up with heavy bass and songs that infiltrated the body and made everyone dance around in an aggressive but at the same time generally fun way.

The songs that always did it for me was “Throw It Up” and “Grand Finale”

There’s that and his ad libs. It always struck me as amazing how yelling certain one or two syllable words seemed to manifest so much emotion.

“Yeah!”

“What?”

“Okay!”

If you were to be completely honest with yourself right now, when you saw Lil’ Jon’s name as the subject of this article you made one or all of those sounds. Come on, be real. Hell, you’re probably doing now.

Lil’ Jon is also responsible for bringing us new talent (Lil’ Scrappy was once affiliated with him), fun music, and club bangers.

“Get Low”, anyone? I remember when everyone felt it important to point from the window all the way over to the adjacent wall. I was a perpetrator as well…and I loved it. Still do when it’s played.

Other club classics he was involve with was “Yeah!”, “Salt Shaker”, and many more.

To me it feels like DJ Khaled is trying his damnedest to be the new Lil’ Jon. To me it will never work.

Granted both are associated with good songs but Khaled is highly annoying. Lil’ Jon’s yells and ad libs somehow prepare your mind and your body for the sheer energy that the next track will be giving you.

Another is the way in which they’re mocked. Khaled’s ridicule is regaled to YouTube videos and random conversations. Lil’ Jon’s was made iconic by Dave Chappelle’s portrayal of him, the same thing he did for the late Rick James.

(You’re probably doing the Rick James thing now, right?)

My point here is rather simple: we need another Lil’ Jon and the Eastside Boyz effort. What? Okay!

Sonic Saviors In Savannah

2012-02-01T07:21:00.000-08:00

Georgia.

My home state and the blood that runs through my veins. As such I have a love for Atlanta hip-hop. But as I watch the number of Atlanta rappers, producers, and other artists grow I have a nagging question that bothers me from time to time.

When will the next Savannah rapper rise?

If you know me personally you know that I was born and raised in Savannah, GA. Because of that strong connection I love everything about my city except the small hip-hop contribution we have. Granted OutKast member Big Boi grew up in West Savannah before he moved to Atlanta. Although I appreciate Big Boi and his ode to his roots (“West Savannah”) I need something more.

The last hope we had of a breakout Savannah artist was lost to the violence that is typical of my birthplace.

Jason Johnson (stage name Camoflauge) was Savannah’s own bright star and local celebrity. We all knew him and we all loved him. In Savannah if you didn’t know the words to his classic track “Cut Friends” you couldn’t really be counted as a true resident. That was the kind of influence he had on us. And as with many rappers he lived the street life that he often brought to his lyrics. It threatened to take his career in true T.I. style when he went to jail surrounding the circumstances of what seemed to be a gang murder.

He returned and so did his music.

Around about the time of his third album Keepin It Real he did a track called “Laying My Stunt Down” with Cash Money founder Baby. Just based on that I thought that this signaled that Camoflauge had broken through and was preparing to sign with Cash Money at one point.

But it wasn’t to be.

My mother often says that you should be careful that your sins do not find you out. This was one of those times.

Camoflauge was gunned down outside of the studio where he recorded while he held his son. He was rushed to the hospital where he died. And in a way the entire city died a bit too.

This is not told as a sad story but as a working example.

Savannah needs rappers.

I write and I sing but my rapping has cobwebs all over it, honestly. But I’d gladly dust it off if there was a force, a contingent of us who were willing to make Savannah at least half of what Atlanta is hip-hop wise.

That is my appeal.

With Regards To Lonnie

2012-02-01T07:20:00.000-08:00

Iconic samples are what make hip-hop exactly what it is. I am always amazed at the level to which these beats take the originals. Right now as I type this I ponder over an old Harvey Mason song called “Never Give You Up”. With the help of Atlanta born producer Drumma Boy that song became or rather transformed into “What Up, What's Haapnin”, a personal favorite from T.I. Almost as soon as I think of that song I must honor Kanye West and his samples. He does so many that I really must give you a quick top ten there.

1. “Blame Game”-samples Aphex Twin’s “Avril 15th”
2. “Champion”-samples Steely Dan’s “Kid Charlemagne”
3. “Big Brother”-samples Prince’s “It’s Gonna Be Lonely”
4. “Spaceship”-samples Marvin Gaye’s “Distant Lover”
5. “Diamonds From Sierra Leone”-samples Shirley Bassey’s “Diamonds Are Forever”
6. “Good Life”-samples Michael Jackson’s “P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)”
7. “Stronger”-samples Daft Punk’s “Stronger, Better, Faster, Harder”
8. “Gold Digger”-samples Ray Charles’ “I Got A Woman”
9. “Good Morning”-samples Elton John’s “Someone Saved My Life Tonight”
10. “Flashing Lights”-samples Curtis Mayfield’s “Little Child Running Wild”

And before I get to the point here I must name two more amazing samples from two legends. 2Pac’s “Dear Mama” samples Joe Sample’s “In All My Wildest Dreams” and The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Juicy” is sampled from Mtume’s “Juicy Fruit”.

But above all these samples one stands out most of all.

No, it’s not The Isley Brothers’ “For The Love Of You”…

…or “Between The Sheets”.

…or “Footsteps In The Dark”.

I speak of the legendary Lonnie Liston Smith.

Before I did the research I had no idea who he was but afterwards I listened to his sounds and I was in love. But I still think some of you are still wondering what his claim to hip-hop fame is. I’ll tell you.

Jay-Z’s debut album was the classic Reasonable Doubt. To me that album was made by one song. That song was “Dead Presidents”. You’re humming it right now, aren’t you?

From Lonnie’s album Dreams Of Tomorrow producer Ski Beatz took Lonnie’s “A Garden Of Peace” and made or rather transformed it into “Dead Presidents”.

The song was a great song in its own right but hip-hop made it legendary. Lonnie’s song was also sampled for Mary J. Blige’s “Take Me As I Am”, a track that Lonnie himself called the best use of his song that he’d heard. That’s high praise right there.

With regards to you, Lonnie. Thank you for your musicianship.

A Gender Bender

2012-02-01T07:18:00.000-08:00

Tolerance, at its core, is encouraged in everyday life. Granted we are not totally there for many obvious reasons but I like to believe that the day may come one day soon. All this leads me towards a certain question that was posed on the Adult Swim show The Boondocks.

The question?

Is hip-hop ready for an openly gay rapper?

That is hard one to really answer. In theory what or who a rapper chooses to love shouldn’t have any bearing on how it is they rap. But this isn’t a perfect world, is it? We are all caught up by our own particular hang-ups.

Hip-hop has been built up as this playground for thugs and gangstas, a culture where being hard, prison life, drugs, and not snitching is the norm. This is probably why any change to that status quo is met with such opposition. Drake, however popular, has taken a bunch of heat for his crooning and being ‘soft’. Rappers like New Boyz or Lil’ Twist tend to encounter a lot of the same because they make hip-hop that tends to be more dance oriented.

Hip-hop is different than modern life and other genres due to the fact that free speech and certain things are never allowed. Free speech, saying whatever you want is never a good idea here. Being outside of what the consensus sees as typical is all but discouraged.

So what if a male rapper loves men? Will that particular proclivity make him any less as far as a rhyme maker?

In a hypothetical world if a rapper was gay I am sure that he’d govern himself accordingly. I severely doubt his album covers would be overtly homoerotic or his video praise sodomy or fellatio (even if his heterosexual counterparts have carte blanche for that type of nonsense). Even still…

I am by no means perfect. I, like all of you, have my prejudices. But I haven’t ever been that low on homosexuals. I understand of course how the Bible condemns the act of homosexuality (see Sodom and Gomorrah). But at the same time Jesus told us to love everyone as we’d love ourselves. In that particular choice or set of choice these men (and women) have a hard enough time just being. So why would a genre predominately dominated by African-Americans, one of the poster children for discrimination be so willing to discriminate against homosexuality?

I don’t know. Do you?

Not Money, Not Power…RESPECT

2012-02-01T07:13:00.000-08:00

Respect is in the heart/And that’s where Imma start…

It’s an interesting issue that often times comes up.

Respect for the game. That, like any ambiguous statement, has a dubious sort of answer. How is respect for anything disseminated? I imagine the best place to start would be with a simple definition.

Esteem; a feeling or attitude of admiration or deference towards somebody or something.

The state of being admired.

Thoughtfulness; consideration

An individual characteristic or point.

But which would apply here? The first definition has promise.

The issue you often hear from the older heads in hip-hop is that the younger generation of up-and-coming hip-hop artists have “no respect for the game”. I have regularly found both truth and fault with that particular statement.

Why or how can I be divided? I’ll tell you now.

The truth part stems from the fact that nowadays some rappers would rather rely on profanity, airborne wads of currency, and beautiful women with bubble butts and little else to make the point or sell their songs. That aspect shows a little less than reverence for what they first set out on. Granted hip-hop has always been mostly misogynistic when it came to women but there was a bit more cleverness in it in previous generations. These days ‘bitch’ and ‘ho’ have all but become synonymous with a woman. That would be part of the disrespect.

My deference comes from this point. Those same older heads are critical of how the new generation does certain things. As I once said hip-hop must evolve if it is to continue existing. In that respect new blood is showing a certain level of respect by walking new paths with a decades old genre. You cannot in good faith expect hip-hop to stay exactly the same as it was at its inception. An infusion of that old school now and then wouldn’t go awry. But for the most part anything new that can be added while still honoring the sentiment of true hip-hop is usually a great thing.

Look, it’s an issue and an issue can be argued either way. I don’t claim to have the right answer for this sort of thing. All I have is my humble opinion. I can hope that maybe when you read this you can see the points and maybe understand what it is I’m saying.

Respect is there, either way you look at it.

I Am Not A Rapper

2012-02-01T07:09:00.001-08:00

Before I go any further with this review I would like to give you this disclaimer of sorts:

I understand the album and/or mixtape that will be reviewed here is not of the hip-hop or rap genre but it is my hope that by opening the eyes of the masses to it, maybe it will inspire further creativity. That is my sincerest hope here.

I have made a very constant stream of references to Coldplay as of late. As the disclaimer has previously and so eloquently proclaimed, the band cannot be considered hip-hop but you cannot rightly deny that Chris Martin (Coldplay front man) hasn’t made his mark in this community.

Think about it for a second.

Swizz Beatz’ “Part Of The Plan” and “That Oprah”

Jay-Z’s “Beach Chair”

And of course Kanye West’s “Homecoming” can be added to this list.

Because of the influence he has I felt it prudent and rather necessary to review Coldplay’s newest album. Their newest effort, Mylo Xyloto, is the subject of this review. The title has the strange gift of throwing you off if only for the briefest of seconds. It threw me when I first heard about it. It wasn’t until I listened to it that I saw that this album is just as wonderful as the others before it.

The sound explodes without killing you. More to the point it enters your spirit and makes it soar. Flowery and wordy, I know. But give the album a listen and tell me that I’m wrong.

These are a few of the standout tracks:

-“Us Against The World”-The slow ease here is perfect for the subject matter here. It is a lovesick anthem told with an aching that is pure sadness and at the same time beautiful. The acoustic guitar is wonderfully crisp and the music isn’t rushed. Martin and crew take their time here to tell an amazing story.

-“Major Minus”-I couldn’t tell you why but this one plays like a Southern rock ballad to me. There’s a menacing something about it that reminds me of that genre. The guitar screams perfection towards the end that I love beyond all compare.

-“Princess Of China”-My personal favorite, actually. Rihanna assists the guys on this throbbing and eclectic track. It is a brokenhearted anthem that seems at odds with the swell of the music itself. Rihanna’s vocals are different here, somehow clearer and more emotive. All and all, a great listen

The title makes not a drop of sense to me personally but the music makes all the sense in the world to me sonically. Chris, you and the guys are on point. This makes me anxious for your next foray into hip-hop.

A Memory: Words And Sounds…

2012-02-01T07:09:00.000-08:00

It’s funny how your mind can take you back. All it took for me to travel back a little was a simple, unassuming night out with some really good people. One of the friends drove and has something that really impressed me-an extensive catalogue of great music. As she drove I played DJ and set the vibe of the car. On the way back from a lovely evening I was back at that particular task. As I was perusing the amazing depths of her iPod I found a mixtape that I hadn’t heard in a about four or five months-Royal Flush 2 by Cyhi The Prynce.

It transported me back to the moment I downloaded it.

It was a late afternoon at my cousin’s place. I was working on some poetry and I downloaded it as I sat working and bending those words.

I was in love with it like I am now.

Don’t you just love that? It’s always been amazing how really good hip-hop transports you back to certain moments in time. Either that or you can be given certain feelings.

In the case of Cyhi’s mixtape many of the songs are built upon an old school sample. “Sunday Morning” (one of my favorite tracks) is a direct sample of Lionel Richie’s “Easy Like Sunday Morning”. The original song reminds me of long car trips with my mother and my little sister.

Juvenile’s “Slow Motion” has the effect of bringing back those moments. All I think of when I hear that song is the summer it came out and how hard the song hit despite (or because of) Soulja Slim’s death.

Maybe these reasons were the reasons for a lot of the things I do. Maybe it’s the reason I write as many songs as I do. Or it may be the influence behind my writing for an online hip-hop magazine.

What inspired a quiet, intelligent person like me to do these things?

The answer is simple, really.

Words and sounds.

They bind us without much effort. Their beauty often intertwines itself around our thoughts and our feelings so flawlessly that we scarcely know how we survived without it. It is the perfect symbiotic relationship, one that feeds both as either draws from the other.

Words and sounds.

Without them, we are not the same. We are not ourselves, merely just shallow shells of men and women. I thank God for hip-hop and all music, the perfect combination of words and sounds.

The Curious Case Of Andre Benjamin

2012-02-01T07:04:00.000-08:00

There are so many questions in this world that are without answer or are supposed to be beyond a simple answer. One would be the eternal question of “Which came first, the chicken or the egg?” Then there are the questions that have a more philosophical implication: “If God is omnipotent, why doesn’t he destroy evil?” It’s these types of questions that learned individuals have been trying to decipher forever. I myself, although nowhere near as intellectual, have a question that I am sure that everyone has been wondering…

When is Andre 3000 coming back for real?

It’s highly annoying the current state of things.

Early 1990s we were blessed with OutKast and I have been in love since ATLiens. And everything that followed that has been epic. To me the highest points would have to be two of my favorite OutKast albums: Stankonia and Speakerboxxx/The Love Below. Two juggernauts as far as albums go. I can name at least twenty songs that I like from all of them. But I won’t. I just say that to make a point.

Around about the time of Idlewild (both the album and the movie), the acting bug hit 3 Stacks and we saw him play wonderfully in a few films, the foremost amongst those being Four Brothers. I applauded his versatility and appreciated him for being another musical artist to seamlessly fall into acting. But I still wanted to hear him rhyme.

And he did…occasionally.

You’d hear him come through and completely wreck a remix or do magic on a feature.

The two most recent?

Beyonce’s “Party” on her 4 album and Young Jeezy’s “I Do” from the Thug Motivation 103: Hustlerz Ambition album.

Granted I am always happy to hear a fellow Georgian do what he is best at but the sporadic nature of it is growing to be too annoying to keep quiet about. I need more from him.

In light of the fact that Cee Lo and the boys have reconciled and promised us a new Goodie Mob album, I want a new OutKast album. Or even a solo album from Andre, at least.

Big Boi is carrying the OutKast banner alone these days. His solo album was beastly and I need the same from his partner in crime in short order.

Look, I understand that Andre 3000 has children and interests that he seeks to pursue but you have fans as well. You wouldn’t be able to do any of these things without us first loving you enough to make you famous. So please come back to us.

No more hit and run features, please.

A Soulja’s Story

2012-02-01T07:02:00.000-08:00

I can admit things about myself, things that most people find it hard to say out loud. For the most part I can say I am a decent human being but, essentially, I am flawed. Despite being extremely patient about most things I have something of a short temper. I’ve been known to be inconsistent at times and generally sullen at certain occasions. But these character flaws aren’t the ones to which I refer.

I am a man of personal biases. As a writer you strive to move past those but more often than not they find their way into your writing or your thoughts. If you’ve been paying attention you’ve seen my general dislike for Beyonce Knowles as well as Future more recently. Yet there another who raises my ire in the music world.

That person is Soulja Boy.

I can be fair enough to say how impressed I was to see a young man come up from the nearly defunct MySpace, create a hit dance, and invade the hip-hop culture. After that I can’t say much else in the way of good things.

Granted I was in love with his song “Gucci Bandana” for a good expanse of time but that time has all but passed. I truly doubt that I could thank him for thrusting the phrase “Superman that ho” onto us but it was catchy and got repeated to exhaustion.

Three albums under his belt show me that despite whatever my insignificant opinion counts for people somewhere appreciate him and his music. His longevity is a bit impressive. That as well as twenty-nine mixtapes is quite the feat.

Hell, he’s already got two out right now: 50/13 and Mario & Domo vs. the World.

Then there’s the upcoming album entitled Promise. Who really knows to expect from it.

Despite my bias I am willing to try something out here.

Since this is a new year I think this would be the moment for a resolution. Given the fact that it is my job to report and tell you all about current, mainstream and underground hip-hop I resolve this: I will put my preconceived notions of Soulja Boy behind me and honestly give the new album a chance. After all I have nothing to lose but the time it takes me to listen to it and love it or throw it into oncoming traffic. So I’m going to wait and see how this Soulja’s story is going to play out.

Limitations And Boundaries

2012-02-01T06:55:00.000-08:00

I’m a writer. I am very good with words. When given the opportunity I bend them to my will and make magic with every syllable. And when I say I write I pretty much write everything. Poems, articles, papers, songs, books, etc. All this is said to say this: I stay in my wheelhouse. That’s not to say I won’t try to do anything new but I know my limitations. You’ll never catch me trying to juggle, sing opera (despite the fact that I actually can sing), or even try to paint a masterpiece. That’s usually the safest bet you can make, honestly.

But what happens when someone steps outside their wheelhouse?

Sometimes you get interesting results.

Sometimes good, sometimes bad.

For example when Cee Lo Green stretched out and started singing it turned out really well. It gave us Gnarls Barkley and great songs like the most famous Gnarls Barkley effort “Crazy” or his solo hit “Fool For You”. That song just goes in every time you hear it. Really and truly.

Then there are times where it goes completely sideways.

Case in point, singers rapping.

It’s a novel idea, at best. I mean, I could maybe see the thought process that they are working under here. Singing can’t be as difficult as rapping, can it? So they venture out to try it. As with anything you have highs and lows.

Chris Brown scores points for his rhymes on “Look At Me Now”. But on the other side of it I feel like he had no place amongst the rest of the rappers on the BET Hip-Hop Awards Cypher. Kudos for trying and an E for effort but it didn’t do it for me.

The same can be said of Trey Songz. I fell in love with a few tracks that he rapped on, one being “Top Of The World”. As of yet I cannot see a downside because he seems to keep to the subject matter he knows as opposed to being tough like Mr. Brown does. So maybe he’s the exception to the rule here.

Then there’s Justin Beiber. I can halfway accept his sway over young girls. But I cannot believe him as a rapper. I think the fact that Asher Roth is a close friend has him believing that rapping is something for him to be doing. I’m not saying he can’t rap but he should stick to his day job. Listen to a track from Chris Brown’s Boy In Detention mixtape if you don’t believe me. (The track is called “Ladies Love Me”)

The thing is everyone should know their limitations. As such rapping should (in most cases) be left to real rappers.

A Fading Miss

2012-01-31T16:15:00.000-08:00

Mary J. Blige sings a song on her album called Growing Pains called “Fade Away”. Allow me to paraphrase, rather quote, the chorus a little bit.

Sometimes I wish/That I could stand here/And fade away

Fading away is what a lot of the female R & B singers tend to be doing these days. The male end of the spectrum has been doing rather well. I figured that it might be a given due to the fact that this realm is dominated by artists such as Trey Songz, Chris Brown, and Usher. Then there’s the fact that more guys keep appearing almost everyday. Examples of that include people like Frank Ocean and Jeremih.

If only the same could be said of strong female R & B voices. I referenced Mary J. Blige because she is the most enduring voice in R & B right now. That statement is spoken without consideration to the legendary voices that still make music from time to time (i.e. Patti LaBelle, Anita Baker, and Gladys Knight). I respect everything MJB has done and continues to do for R & B but she cannot do it alone. Help is hard to come by. Let’s take a look at the dwindling numbers:

-Ciara is all but disappeared. I mean, seriously. When was the last time you really heard anything from her? I miss the days when she was heavy on the radio. But the days of “Goodies” and “1, 2 Step” are long gone. Maybe it was the overly suggestive “Ride” that killed it. Who knows? Sad, though.

-Dondria was doing well enough for a while but faded off a bit. The YouTube darling may be working on a follow-up. I hope so. Because I really loved her first album.

-K. Michelle displays both beauty and a wonderful voice with her music. But she disappeared as well. I can only hope we get more from her.

-Kelly Rowland is interesting because although she tries to do R & B she has this disobliging and rather annoying way of making more pop music than anything else. My suggestion? Go back to the formula for the first album.

I say these names as just a small sampling of a growing trend. I’m honestly thankful for artists who are fighting to stay around like Chrisette Michelle, LeToya Luckett, Melanie Fiona, Ledisi, and Jill Scott. It never ceases to amaze me how these wonderful ladies continue to make good music that falls on the ear drums so perfectly.

With Beyonce and Rihanna both more pop than actually R & B, we need strong female R & B artists. Any volunteers?

Just Listen...

2012-01-31T16:09:00.001-08:00

Ha, ha.

On the day to day basis I am a funny guy. Not in the traditional sense. My humor lies more in my wit and my off kilter stories. But sometimes my sense of humor comes from borrowing jokes from some of the greats. That includes Richard Pryor, Dick Gregory, Robin Harris, and Bernie Mac. Mentioning him puts in the mind of something.

An old joke comes to mind before I write this review.

The Original Kings Of Comedy.

Cedric The Entertainer was speaking on the difference between R & B singers then and now. He noted that R & B crooners like Teddy Pendergrass told you what they wanted as opposed to begging like Keith Sweat does.

Turn off the lights/Light a candle…

Sometimes when someone tells you what they want it’s more agreeable than when they whine for something. Case in point, Runt Dawg. His mixtape title has a way of evoking that same sort of commanding presence.

The title?

Shutdafukupandlisten.

Being good at following directions, even ones so forceful, I shut up and I listened. And I have to tell you that I am glad that I did. It is a collection of amazing sounds and words. Very nice, actually.

“If The Shoe Fits” is a street anthem without a doubt. When you hear it you feel like you’re on a show like The Wire. There is eloquence in the storytelling and the amazing way Runt delivers here. I feel my mind flying towards the scene his words paint. That is and has always been one of my favorite things about hip-hop.

“From The Horse’s Mouth” is a surprise to me. It’s a story of rags to riches. There is honesty in everything Runt Dawg tells you on this track. The drums act as punctuation to every verse, every hook. I can appreciate that he’s so transparent as a rapper that he’s willing to take the time to talk candidly about the way he came up. I also like that he takes time to shout out family, friends, and even his wife. I can really respect that.

Redman joins in to deliver the hometown anthem “Where I’m From”. Runt and Red speak with love over New Jersey, as much love as you heard in such songs as “Welcome To Atlanta” and “Empire State Of Mind”. Representing for the hometown is a must.

I have reviewed three artists from New Jersey and Runt Dawg adds to the growing love I am garnering for Brick City. I want more from the GillaHouse and hopefully I’ll get it soon.

The King’s Speech

2012-01-31T16:09:00.000-08:00

“The King’s back…!!!”

This is a line that every one of us who loves hip-hop has come to associate with one Clifford Harris, Jr., sometimes called Tip but more often called T.I. And usually his statement is met with a wonderful project that is quoted, sung, and repeated to grand reviews. This is the year of another such performance by T.I.

Right now we’re all waiting with bated breath for T.I. to release Trouble Man. Just based on the tracks we’ve heard, the hunger grows. Just off the strength of the Big K.R.I.T. assisted and produced “I’m Flexin’” I am so ready. But T.I. is a smart man. He’s intelligent enough to know that we need something to cut our teeth on in the meantime while we wait.

Thus F*ck Da City Up is born and released.

I know at the outset it may seem that I give T.I. too much ink. Maybe it’s because he from the South like me. Or maybe it’s because I am a fan. Despite that you cannot say the guy isn’t talented. The career he’s had proves that much. The mixtape is just another entry into that catalogue.

Here are the favorites:

-“On Purpose”-After about ten seconds of listening to this one your head has no choice but to shake along with the beat. T.I. shows that ability to pull you into whatever story he is telling you. This story about the happenings when he’s heading to club. The features include two rappers by the names of Trouble and Rich Kidd Shad. They do nothing but add perfectly to the vibe and the story here.

-“This Time Of Night”-Automatically this song puts me in the mind of other tracks from T.I. with similar themes (“Let’s Get Away”, “Hotel”, and “Why You Wanna” to name a few). I also loved hearing Nelly on the chorus. The last time these two collaborated was magical (“Get Loose”) and this time the same feeling seems to return. Plus it’s good to hear Nelly rhyme again.

-“I’ll Show You”-Pusha T…AND T.I.?! How can this be wrong? It isn’t. Quite the opposite. A wonderful beat as a backdrop punctuates the verses that the two amazing artists bring together. Hearing them together makes me silently wonder why they never teamed up before.

I could go on and on how amazing this mixtape is and how great each track is. Instead I will end much as I began because it’s succinct and rather fitting-Th

B.O.M.B.s And Beats. You Ready Roc?

2012-01-31T16:04:00.000-08:00

“That’s the bomb, dog…”

I remember when that was the cool vernacular for “That’s cool.” There was even a time when it was used to reference anything and everything that was amazing, awesome, or just plain good. I would imagine that entitling a musical effort thusly would paint you into something of a corner. It’s all but an indictment to make something epic.

So with New Jersey rapper Ready Roc naming his mixtape Da B.O.M.B. you all but feel that he has no choice but to make it a classic. So I went into this review with high expectations. Suffice to say my expectations were not in vain. Granted I don’t see much in the way of lyrical originality but everything else is on point. What I like most here is how certain songs give me a Southern feel while others take me to Brick City. Mixing it up is wonderful for longevity in the hip-hop game. Seems like Ready has that covered.

I’m just a squirrel/And this world is my acorn

The entire mixtape is full of punch lines just like that. My single favorite song on this mixtape would have to be “Dolla Dolla”. I love how Redman’s voice can be heard in ad libs and balances out the tone of Ready’s voice.

I’m not the biggest fan of “Be Gone” but I cannot honestly say it isn’t catchy. And to be completely honest I feel like every African-American male (maybe any male) has felt like that. College in general is filled with that sort of sentiment and I can say that I once had the exact same mentality that this song engenders. It’s hard for me to say I completely hate this song because of the throbbing beat and the amazing number of punch lines that Ready is giving me to chew on. It’s a dilemma but an amazing one.

“Is This What You Want?” is no doubt influenced by the South. I say that first because I hear the familiar sound of Lil’ Jon screaming “Gangsta…”, the keyword and biggest cue of a Gangsta Grillz mixtape. It’s another one of those short songs that get you excited with very little effort. Right now I sit writing this while trying to resist standing, jumping up and down with sheer crunk flowing through my veins.

“Coming Home” is beautiful introspection over a repeated vocal hook and an acoustic guitar taking you through his story of growth and wanting more for those he cares about.

Ready Roc, the name is well deserved because you made me rock with this one. You also didn’t lie when you titled your mixtape. You lit the fuse and basically killed me with an explosion of purely amazing sound.

Breakfast, Lunch, AND Dinner

2012-01-31T15:55:00.000-08:00

Never sleep on New Jersey. It was listening to more Joe Budden that taught me this important lesson a few years back. I’d subconsciously known this because of how much I actually liked Redman back in the day. Malpractice was one of my favorite albums from him. Maybe this was one of the reasons I was interested to review his mixtape.

The title threw me at first.

Pancake And Syrup.

In the way of breakfast it’s a delicious combination that I personally can’t resist. So in a quiet place in my mind I figured that expecting the same wasn’t too much of a stretch. So I listened.

The verdict? Loved it. His delivery and his amazing sense of humor within his lyrics are still alive in this new effort. That can be appreciated because some rappers try to change themselves to spotty results. The person that immediately comes to mind at that statement is North Carolina rapper Petey Pablo.

But back to Redman.

Let me show you the good stuff.

-“I’m Straight (Freestyle)”-The start of this plays like a radio DJ’s introduction. Then an epic beat comes through, a beat from a song I loved when T.I. first rapped over it with B.G. and Young Jeezy. Red touches it with the pure essence of the Brick City. A favorite line is this one: I’m stupid/My voice box is built with acoustics/ Reggie Noble’s back/Memo niggas the blueprint. It was an amazing redo on something that was already amazing.

-“Def Jammable”-There is something off and weird about the production of the beat, something I love. His lyricism is in full display here. It hits you as the perfect return track from a returning legend. The lyrics brag at the perfect level but at the same time gives you his cockiness pure and uncut.

-“Pancake And Syrup”-The GillaHouse family is in full effect on this track. I love the beat that was chosen. Offhand I detect a touch of Auto-Tune in the chorus performed by Redman. I also understand what ‘pancake and syrup’ actually is in context to everything. Ready Roc sheds light on it for me saying: I love getting high/You can call me an addict/ ‘Cause that pancake and syrup/I just gotta have it / And I know a lot of people/Don’t know what I mean/That’s when you pop a pill/And wash it down with some lean. Runt Dawg also checks in with a smooth flow that you could float on.

Redman is back. I can put no finer point on it. Pancake And Syrup is proof of that but I think I’ll just listen to it, maybe eat them together and avoid the type that Ready Roc mentioned. Life and music get me high enough.

The Flawed Kreayshawn (Creation)

2012-01-31T15:41:00.000-08:00

Rappers’ government names are usually pretty amusing when compared against their stage names.

For example…

Natassia Gail Zolot is the given name of Oakland rapper Kreayshawn. If I were being honest with you, I actually like Kreayshawn. I cannot say I’m the biggest fan of her controversies (we’ll get to those later) but we all have our moments. Such is the way of life since none of us are perfect.

But why do I like Kreayshawn? There a few reasons I want to share with you if you’ll permit me.

1.I LOVE how she got started with her career. She didn’t immediately start making music. She hung back in the background and made music videos. She got her first camera at ten and started documenting her raps. This led to not only her doing videos for local rappers like Lil’ B but caught the attention of Dean Patrick Kriwanekhe, allowing her to attend Berkeley Digital Film Institute with a full scholarship for two semesters. Not too shabby.

2.Her heritage makes her rap career that much more intriguing to me. Kreayshawn is a third-generation Russian-American, and the daughter of Elka Zolot, a former member of the San Francisco garage punk band The Trashwomen.

3.I honestly like her style and her delivery. Ever since the first time I heard “Gucci Gucci”, I was hooked on her. I can’t wait for her first studio album.

The controversies don’t really overshadow things for me.

Critics of Kreayshawn's music cite cultural appropriation and "exploitation of black culture".West coast rapper Game released a diss track entitled, "Uncle Otis", containing lyrics criticizing her for her alleged use of the word 'nigga' when paraphrasing a DMX quote. That’s interesting to me that we seem to come to that sort of conversation every time a Caucasian or anyone other than an African-American enters a genre or borrows a certain style. I’m not justifying her saying nigga but…remember Elvis? Remember Eminem? Exactly my point.

Then there’s her comments about Rick Ross in a freestyle. During a televised freestyle she insulted rapper Rick Ross by calling him "fake". She later retracted her statements and described it as a misunderstanding; however, a few days following her statement, Kreayshawn continued making negative remarks about Ross' body weight, once again calling him "fake" and stating that "he can't rap." That’s pretty much opinion. Maybe saying it publicly is a bit tasteless. But I can see how that could be a problem. Still I love how the First Amendment dies in hip-hop.

And of course, nude pictures are a given. They leaked via Twitter.

As with anything, you must take the good with the bad. Granted there are bad points but I am curious to see her curtail her good points into a dope debut album this year.

(Her debut Life With Loopy is set for release this year.)

The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly (Week of 1/22-1/28)

2012-01-31T15:36:00.000-08:00

1. F*ck Da City Up-Leave it to Atlanta native T.I. to start my 2012 off with a wonderful mixtape. Quite possibly the best thing that my ears have heard this year. I feel I can say this without a trace of doubt. It is absolutely wonderful how this one plays like a typical effort from Mr. Harris. Be advised that the epic nature here is making a review a forgone conclusion.

MY TAKE: GOOD

2.Live Loyal, Die Rich-As of late hip-hop artists that you would originally think down for the count have been making a habit of returning. For example, I had no hope of ever seeing N.O.R.E. again but he’s making a resurgence that I am wholly behind. The person I speak of now is Young Buck. After his breaking with G-Unit, I thought that was the end. But via livemixtapes.com he has released a new mixtape called Live Loyal, Die Rich. I loved him back in the day but I reserve judgment until I hear this new set of songs.

MY TAKE: GOOD, BAD, or UGLY

3.“She Hates The Bass”-I love a good sample for a song. Today as I was relaxing I found myself listening to Stalley again. As I allowed his beats to pound I rediscovered “She Hates The Bass”. Only in that moment did I realize the sample he used for this one. It was a favorite by jazz trumpeter Herb Alpert called “Making Love In The Rain”. Best use of Herb Alpert since The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Hypnotize”. (His track “Rise” is the basis of that classic.)

MY TAKE: GOOD

4.Future-Am I wrong to dislike Atlanta rapper Future as much as I do? I cannot rightly say. But I do. Can’t help it, really. I appreciate his hustle. That much I can say with complete honesty. But besides that he killed off me as a fan with that repetitive and annoying (and admittedly addictive) “Tony Montana” song. I listen to his music and I get a lot of the same. Same script and no different cast, I’m afraid.

MY TAKE: BAD

5.Rihanna-Although she isn’t particularly hip-hop, I have to give her props. She’s a lot like T-Pain is on a chorus and/or hook-murderous. Case in point, do you listen to Coldplay? If so, have you heard the new album Mylo Xyloto? She’s featured on the song “Princess Of China”. Hell, she’s even performing with them at The Grammys. This young woman hits every genre and never loses her credibility or her style. That’s definitely a good thing.

MY TAKE: GOOD

The Time Traveling Rapper

2012-01-31T15:30:00.001-08:00

Ludicrous

An adjective.

Something utterly ridiculously because of being absurd, incongruous, impractical, or unsuitable.

Comes from the early 17th century. From the Latin ludicrous < ludus for “play”.

All in all it was clever for Chris Bridges to call himself that as a stage name. Plus after seeing his videos and his general demeanor you can see that he enjoys the occasional silly or absurd thing. Keep in mind that this is the guy who wore a midget from a chain in one video and spent another video with giant Popeye arms.

The years have been good to Luda with albums, movie roles, businesses, and other successes. But in my opinion I was skeptical as to whether he would make anymore music after Battle Of The Sexes. I was afraid that he’d grown like Andre 3000 with sporadic features and the occasional single release.

Any thought of that was quelled when I downloaded his mixtape entitled 1.21 Gigawatts (Back to the First Time).

Just listening to it took me back to his debut studio album Back For The First Time. And it also served the purpose of putting to rest any doubts I had over his microphone prowess and longevity. It is safe to say Luda is here to stay. As always with my music reviews I will enumerate for you a few favorites. Here they are:

-“Intro”-The thing you can always say of Luda’s album intros is that they are designed to get you hyped for the album. This one puts me in mind of the “Southern Fried Intro” from Chicken & Beer. This song samples Back To The Future (which provides the theme for the mixtape) well and his lines are pure Ludacris. You can’t sit still after this one.

-“Bada Boom”-I’m not usually one for beef records but this one was interesting. Similar to the aforementioned this song samples a movie, in this case The Fifth Element. This song was a shot at newcomers Big Sean and Drake. Interesting…even for a diss track.

-“Rich & Flexin’”-Justin Timberlake’s “Cry Me A River” plays as the main basis of the beat here until the beat switches into something unexpected. I love it when something unexpected throws you off. The flow and subject matter is what you expect from Ludacris. There is also a feature by Waka Flocka Flame. I loved it and listened to it a few times through before moving on to the next song.

Time travel seems possible here, minus the DeLorean and the white haired scientist. Ludacris took it back for us all.

A Weeknd Warrior

2012-01-31T15:30:00.000-08:00

Collaborations and features often lead to amazing discoveries.

Case in point, Take Care.

I noticed his name featured on four tracks from Drake’s sophomore album. The guy’s name was The Weeknd. The sound was interesting. Just based off that I wanted to learn more about this artist. So I did the research.

The Weeknd (given name Abel Tesfaye) was born February 16, 1990. He is a Canadian recording artist and record producer of Ethiopian descent. The first few songs that he released under The Weeknd name first leaked in late 2010, though the identity of the individual behind the project was initially unknown.

Since then he has released three albums that serve as a trilogy of sorts. These are the project names:

-House Of Balloons-Released March 21, 2011
-Thursday-Released August 18, 2011
-Echoes Of Silence-Released December 21, 2011

The acclaim surrounding The Weeknd has been incredible, akin to the buzz another Canadian artist received a few years back. You know the one, right?

His praises have been sung by MTV, BET, Rolling Stone, XXL, The Source, and 2DopeBoyz. They have all dubbed him the "Songbird of his Generation", as well as the "best musical talent since Michael Jackson" (John Norris, MTV).

That last statement speaks a whole hell of a lot about him as an artist. It also makes me curious to hear more from him.

Another thing that has me curious over The Weeknd is something I read about his album House Of Balloons. The reviews were interesting reading, honestly. These are just a few:

Pitchfork Media's Joe Colly wrote that "all the thematic and sonic pieces fit together - these weird, morning-after tales of lust, hurt, and over-indulgence ... are matched by this incredibly lush, downcast music. It's hard to think of a record since probably The xx's debut ... that so fully embodies such a specific nocturnal quality."

Sean Fennessey of The Village Voice called the album "impressive" and added, "It's patient, often gorgeous, and consistently louche ... with the sort of blown-out underbelly and echo-laden crooning that has already made Drake's less-than-a-year-old Thank Me Later such an influential guidepost."

House Of Balloons was named the #1 album of 2011 by Complex Magazine. Moreover, the album beat both Drake's Take Care and Jay-Z and Kanye West’s Watch The Throne for the number 1 spot. That is an amazing feat, all things considered.

Wow, right?

I know I may be late but expect me to review all three albums sometime this week. The Weeknd wins again.

Stalley and His ‘Nights’

2012-01-31T15:26:00.000-08:00

Stalley is, or was, a bit of a surprise to me. A lot of my musical suggestions tend to come from Twitter these days. If I’m not mistaken I heard at least three rappers and/or producers speaking well of the man. One was Ski Beatz. For those who don’t know, he’s an amazing producer who is responsible for one of the most iconic tracks in Jay-Z’s catalogue (“Dead Presidents”). Talib Kweli also praised him. I’ve loved Kweli since Black Star so I figured he knew what he was talking about. The last was 9th Wonder, another producer whose epic catalogue need not be referenced because of time constraints.

So armed with all this I downloaded his album.

The name got me from the outset.

Lincoln Way Nights (Intelligent Trunk Music)

That name alone implies a mix of intellectual, thoughtful rap with a touch of grit.

The album doesn’t disappoint at all. It makes love to the eardrums, leaving a listener fully satisfied.

Here are the favorites:

-“Assassin”- The beginning notes of this track are misleading. It lulls you with the sound of a marimba only for the beat to drop right after. His words speak of an assassin as a metaphor to killing others in the rap game. What really propels this track for me is John Mayer’s voice on the hook as a smooth contradiction that adds to that ever-present marimba and the sounds of gunfire.

-“Milq n’ Honey”-It’s a love song for a new generation. The bass is great but not so overwhelming that it kills the story. The story seems to be of a man who loved a woman (his “milq”) who wasn’t or didn’t have her man’s best interests at heart. He loved her and she was just about holding him down and keeping him from reaching something greater (his “honey”). The depth here is amazing and the story feels personal. Those are the types of tales that make magic in music.

-“Pound”-This song is a hook and a continuous verse. The repetition of the horn is addictive and the drums are crisp. Stalley pierces through all this so well that even my words cannot describe how great it is. My problem with this song (which isn’t really a problem) would be that it is too short. The 2:49 playing time doesn’t feel like enough. But in that short time the song steals you away. Guaranteed.

Stalley surprised me by signing to Rick Ross’ label Maybach Music. I am curious to see what this amazing artist does over there. If his performance on the BET Hip-Hop Awards Cypher (and this album) is any indication of his future, he’s going to be a legend.

The Super Bowl Curse

2012-01-31T15:22:00.000-08:00

Let’s go back in time for a bit, shall we?

We’re going to the Super Bowl…!!

“Gonna have you naked by the end of this song…”

Justin made his move and…

It was meant to be a suggestive, well-choreographed motion to compliment the song. Sadly it did something more than that. Firstly it probably gave perverts, fans, Janet Jackson stalkers, and various others the thrill of their life when they saw Miss Jackson’s (since we’re being nasty) exposed breast.

Secondly, the term “wardrobe malfunction” found its way prominently into to the worldwide lexicon. Moreover, that particular set of words always brings that one moment to mind in the racial memory of everyone who hears it. It’d be the same if I said DTF, insurgents, or Rick James.

Thirdly it gave the FCC a massive coronary. I’m sure they may have recovered from it but as always the FCC have the tendency to overreact over anything risqué, forgetting of course how mostly all the commercials, TV shows, music videos, and things we consume on TV are borderline pushing it.

The final and worst result would be how low the Super Bowl Halftime Show has fallen. Granted I have no problems with Tom Petty. Hell, when The Who performed I was extremely excited. I love Pete Townshend. The Black Eyed Peas did their part to break the monotony. I was a little conflicted about Bruce Springsteen’s performance and at the same time I was wondering. When Springsteen did all those power slides, complete with gratuitous crotch shots, did the FCC have a fit then? Because honestly decrepit genitals seems so much worse to me than a nipple shot. It really is.

This year is Madonna, a risqué performer in her own time.

I silently wonder when more popular artists will be allowed back to perform. If this is the FCC’s way of punishing the displaying of the human form, we’ve all learned our lessons. I know Justin Timberlake and Janet Jackson have learned theirs, too. Maybe it’s about time that we look past the past and look towards a more entertaining future. I’m not saying that we have to put the most hardcore rap acts up or even death metal bands. But what I am saying that a little Drake, Brittney Spears, Big K.R.I.T., T.I., Coldplay, Rihanna, or anyone else who’s really big right now wouldn’t be amiss. I promise you that Rihanna will stay clothed (mostly) and that Chris Martin won’t expose himself after he finishes singing “Viva La Vida”. Just saying.

Approach Of The Grammys

2012-01-31T15:19:00.000-08:00

It’s that time of year again. The season of the Grammys is upon us. As you listen to the efforts of those in the music industry you are enjoying (or despising) what you’re hearing while all the time wondering who among them will be gifted with that gilded gramophone before all their peers.

Sometimes who gets the Grammy is a complete shock to everyone, even the one getting them. But I think that’s the fun of the whole event.

The shock.

The anticipation.

All of it adds up to a wonderful night. I personally can’t wait.

Another aspect that makes this night so special would be the performances. It seems like for one night everything that you know about artists jumps out of the window. Who can forget the night when Eminem, a man gay rights activists had been at war with at the time over what his lyrics had been saying, teams with the legendary (and admitted homosexual) artist Elton John to give us a wonderful performance of “Stan”? I can’t. The same can be said when Beyonce and Prince took the stage together. To me it felt like a perfect collusion of the past and the present, despite my own personal opinions of Miss Knowles.

What I also love about the Grammys is the electricity of the night. You can almost feel it, even sitting at home watching on your TV. For example, last year was a big year for Lady Antebellum. They won a lot of awards that night and you could see that overwhelming them and making them happier even when they first learned that their juggernaut of a song “I Need You Now” was nominated.

Another electric moment was when Lil’ Wayne won his first ever Grammy for Album of the Year. I was over the moon because I was ecstatic for him and for the fact that Tha Carter III had done so well. Plus the fact that he clicked his heels together and jumped in celebration are the moments that are classic and live on forever.

The Grammys are coming soon, folks. I’ve seen some commercials for it and I am excited to see Rihanna perform with Coldplay. Plus I am so curious to see who wins this year. The field is full this year so it promises to be one for the ages. So as it approaches I wait on bated breath and on the edge of my seat.

T.I. vs. T.I.P. vs. DOC

2012-01-31T15:16:00.000-08:00

Scandal and bad choices have been toppling people’s music careers since the very beginning of music. I once spoke of Nelly and his uses for a credit card being his downfall. We all saw how drugs all but destroyed the golden pipes of the beloved Whitney Houston. A few punches gave Chris Brown’s career quite the tumble a few years back as I’m sure you all remember.

Sex scandals and sex tapes don’t always spell doom for careers. On one side you have R. Kelly and his antics which seemingly went unpunished and Mystikal who spent years away in prison for forcing himself on an assistant as hip-hop’s landscape changed under foot. Ray J wasn’t (and still isn’t) popular enough to have been negatively affected by his lackluster sex tape. The only bad thing that came from that would be Kim Kardashian.

Another career defining moment would be prison. Many careers have gone in to never recover. C-Murder’s career was a casualty of lockdown as well as Shyne. To a certain extent Beanie Sigel’s hip-hop aspirations went much the very same way. There are more to be named but I must get to the central topic here.

Like the sex scandals a prison stint does not always lead to ruin. Recently incarcerated rappers such as Gucci Mane and Lil’ Wayne had a wonderfully easy time bouncing back. I suspect that was because of the fans and their love for them. Boosie, who looks like he may be in for a while, is still loved and his career has grown due to the masses teeming that they should “free Boosie”. This also rung true for a legend. I speak of course of the late Pimp C.

But of all the rappers ever incarcerated T.I. seems to be an obvious winner.

Just think about it.

Every time T.I. goes into lock up (which this writer feels is a bit too often), he comes back with an amazing set of songs.

I don’t think you need examples but for the sake of argument and this article I will give them to you.

Urban Legend.

KING.

Paper Trail.

These three T.I. albums came when he was either heading off to prison or just getting out of prison. And each one of them is without a doubt amazing. Strong features, great production, memorable lyrics, and great videos surround these efforts.

Knowing this and knowing that T.I. is home from his latest stint there is but one question to ask…

Are you ready for T.I.’s upcoming Trouble Man to come out and are you ready for it to be ANOTHER classic?

I am.

The Curse Of A Follow-Up

2012-01-31T15:10:00.000-08:00

The nature of man is to keep looking forward towards the future. But with doing that you are inexplicitly looking at the past and the present in an attempt to make sure you can make parts of what is to come as comfortable as what has been. It is a part of ourselves that we cannot escape no matter how hard we try to. As I stated in another article certain things, certain ideas can be applied elsewhere. So allow me to apply this in music.

A successful follow-up album is a tricky thing to pull off, even for the most established of artists. I am going to discuss that a little, if you’ll permit me.

It seems to be a curse. More often than not the albums you put out seem to progressively go down in quality. Sometimes it’s not the artist’s fault. Maybe it’s the landscape of a genre that is in constant flux. Maybe it’s a new artist appearing around the same time as a new release. Or sometimes it’s just the artist. Thankfully not every artist is affected by this. Here are the examples of that ever damning curse and who it has hit hard:

-50 Cent-Because I am not from New York I haven’t heard any of 50’s underground stuff so I cannot speculate on the quality of it. I can only speak what I know. Get Rich Or Die Tryin’ hit hard for a debut. I mean, Dr. Dre’s The Chronic hard. It was a great way to start a career. After that his albums kept coming to poorer and poorer returns. The Massacre tried to duplicate that same buzz but failed. I honestly think Curtis only did well because of his challenge to Kanye West’s Graduation. Anything after that is barely worth mentioning.

-Ja Rule-50’s former enemy had a similar problem. I personally loved the album Rule 3:36 and critics seemed to love it too based on how many tracks had major airplay. It was saddening for me to see that everything after that was dismal to the point of being highly embarrassing. To this day I am unsure if he can ever recover.

-Juvenile-This one hurt me as well. 400 Degreez was a classic and gave us the greatest dance song in current memory (“Back That Ass Up”). As his career went on the hits came fewer and fewer. We all saw a sign of life when Juve The Great came out, propelled by the popularity of the Soulja Slim assisted “Slow Motion”. After Reality Check, “Rodeo”, and untold tragedy I am not hopeful for a revival. But I have been surprised before.

I am sure there are some that I either didn’t think of or didn’t mention but this curse is real for a lot in the hip-hop community. Sadly this isn’t the kind of juju you can get rid of with horseshoes or four leaf clovers.

To Evolve…

2012-01-31T15:04:00.000-08:00

Charles Darwin was a brilliant man, all things considered. He was the person who first spoke of “survival of the fittest” and the concept of evolution. On the surface you would merely think that it’s only applicable to the animal kingdom. And on the surface that looks to be right. Certain animals died out or became extinct because they were ill equipped or chosen by nature for extinction. Other factors for that are deforestation, hunting, and other things. But those are not important to the point here.

Survival in this world is always been about EVOLUTION.

If you are unwilling to change, you will not grow. I learned from my mother that when you stop learning, stop growing you die. This is a truth I carry with me as if a talisman of blinding light. Now this nugget of knowledge is applicable to almost anything that you can discuss or ponder over in your spare time. Even thinking made me ponder this question:

Why couldn’t that theory be applied to hip-hop?

It could.

As you can more than likely tell I am a hip-hop purist. I have loved hip-hop for as long as I could remember. I loved the gangsta influence of the West Coast, rapid fire spitting of the Midwest, the storytelling and grittiness of the East Coast, and the bass and drawling delivery of the South. But with all those things that I love I always figured that if each region didn’t continue to grow their place in hip-hop would die. I am glad to say each region seems to be becoming more, each at its own speed.

But more than that I want to talk about how certain artists are forcing hip-hop to continue growing and evolving beyond its origins in the 1980s.

Hip-hop has taken a strong grasp on education. It made me smile when I first heard that legendary producer 9th Wonder not only heads his own label and produces the soundtracks of a culture but educates as well. More to the point he is a college professor in North Carolina. Another producer, Mississippi native David Banner, is working on getting his Master’s degree. Quite a marvelous thing to hear, right?

Ballet has even gone hip-hop. Founding OutKast member and Dungeon Family alum Big Boi presented a ballet at the FOX Theater in Atlanta, GA entitled BIG.

The thing that most appealed to me would be hip-hop sneaking into movie scores and soundtracks. The most obvious examples of that would be these:

-Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill, Vol. 1 was basically driven by the work of hip-hop artist/producer The RZA.

-N.E.R.D. member Pharrell Williams composed all the music for the DreamWorks Kids film Despicable Me.

-Will.I.Am did the same for another DreamWorks Kids film Madagascar 2: Escape From Africa.

In light of these examples I wonder what’s next. I pray it is original and I pray it is soon.

There’s Something About Drizzy…

2012-01-31T14:58:00.000-08:00

To me Aubrey Graham is an interesting person. He went from being an original character on the hit teen drama Degrassi to being a Grammy nominated recording artist. You have to respect that. Honestly it’s quite a feat.

This young man came up on mixtapes and hype. Very few of us can forget Comeback Season or the ever popular So Far Gone. Even if the video for the hottest song on that mixtape (i.e. “Best I Ever Had”) was something of a flop, he was poised to be a new face in the world of hip-hop. I mean, he was on almost every song dropping those punch lines so perfectly. He and all his features made you really curious as to what the debut would look like. Even more, people wondered would he sign with Cash Money.

Of course he did and we all know what happened next.

Then came Thank Me Later. We thanked him then. That monster of an album was lead by the lead single “Over”. It also gave us the Kanye West produced “Find Your Love” and the very popular “Miss Me”.

Even with Grammy nominations, features, endorsements, interviews, and all the trappings of success surrounding him that usual question started playing through everyone’s minds-what’s next? I admit to being one of those people who always think that sort of thing when a new album is released. How much further could Drizzy Drake go? We were all wondering and waiting.

The features, production, and songwriting kept coming as we all sat on the edge of our seats in silent waiting.

Everybody remembers the leak of his entire Take Care album, right? Kudos to him for taking it in stride and just telling the masses to “enjoy”.

When it released, it was to mixed reviews. I have read reviews from both sides of the issue. Some people loved his sophomore effort and touted it as better than his debut. Others were highly critical of it, saying that Drake was soft and whines too much. Opinions are essentially based on who presents them so I cannot say who is wrong or right. All I can say what I think. My personal opinion is that Drake’s second album was pretty well put together. Granted there are moments when I am disappointed, the biggest being when he sampled the iconic Juvenile track “Back That Ass Up” for his song “Practice”. Other than that Take Care plays rather well.

But as with anything, success breeds haters.

Bloggers have made many a joke about Drake, going as far as to call him a “pillow whisperer”. This all compounds more onto that image people have of hip-hop artists being dangerous, tough, and thuggish. Drake isn’t that. People would do well to understand that.

Hip-hop artists have also been rather low on Drake, too.

The best examples of that would be two diss records from two well established artists. Those artists? Ludacris and Common.

Ludacris recently released a new mixtape. It is entitled 1.21 Gigawatts (Back to the First Time). One of the tracks on this really amazing mixtape is called “Bada Boom”. In this song he disses both Drake and Big Sean. Interesting, really.

Common has also released a diss track against Drake. I guess he’s not so enlightened that he can’t beef.

Hell, even Chris Brown’s “Marvin’s Room” remix is a low key shot at Drake. I mean, we all know the situations surrounding Rihanna and what not.

All this leads me to ask this: is there something about Drizzy? What about this guy engenders such hatred within fans, bloggers, and peers? Personally if I were Drake I would see it as an honor that two guys who’ve had such longevity in the game like Common and Luda saw fit to even mention me, good or bad. The rest I would chock up to people hating success and wanting to see you fall.

I hate to quote a movie here but a line from Spider-Man seems to fit here:

“But the one thing they love to see more than a hero is to see a hero fail, fall, die trying…”

Maybe that’s the same for rappers, too.

The Invincible Snowman

2012-01-30T14:50:00.000-08:00

I’m sure that you all remember the beginning of Young Jeezy’s career. It was a haze of associations with the Black Mafia Family (BMF), a war with fellow Atlanta rapper Gucci Mane, ad libs, an iconic mixtape, and an infamous emblem. I speak of course of the Snowman. School kids wore that menacing emblem on T-shirts, unaware of its meaning. To them it was just something they saw their favorite rapper wearing. But we all know better.

That sort of scandal should be the death knell of a budding rap career. All it took to destroy Nelly’s career was using his credit card somewhere where VISA certainly wasn’t accepted and we rarely see anything from him. But Young Jeezy proved to be more resilient. He bounced back from the banning of his nickname’s image and Let’s Get It: Thug Motivation 101 became a classic album. You can’t dispute that.

Think about it.

If asked right now you could name at least two songs from that album that you know by heart. For me it’s “Soul Survivor” and “Trap Star”.

He repeated the same success with The Inspiration, my favorite album from him. Every track was well put together and added to his legend.

The Recession was decent enough to me but I am unsure what critics thought. It yielded many songs including “Put On” featuring Kanye West. Despite that he refused to be broken. He stayed in the public eye with his sound.

Then something happened.

Jeezy all but disappeared. Granted you’d see him on the random feature here or there, akin to what we’ve been getting from Andre 3000 as of late. All the while he was preparing Thug Motivation 103: Hustlerz Ambition. There have been many starts and stops with its release. People are hungry to hear from him again.

But that wait is over.

Thug Motivation 103: Hustlerz Ambition hit with the force of a bomb and the return of Jeezy was finally upon us.

But before that he gave us a few mixtapes to whet our appetites. One such mixtape was The Real Is Back 2. Listening to it gave me that same hunger as everyone else. It was interesting how Jeezy gives you the perfect number of tracks to cut your teeth on. Almost like the last bowl of porridge in that traditional bedtime story the amount of songs is just right. Here are the standout tracks for me:

-“Real Nigga Anthem”-Something between the piano heavy beat and DJ Drama’s level of excitement draws you in despite the fact that it’s the last track on the album. Jeezy’s words invade you and his punch lines are amazing. One of my favorites is this one: Look nigga, I told y’all/Young don’t bend, don’t break/Don’t budge or fold, dog. There are gems throughout this song, punctuated by the way that piano is played and the perfection of the drums.

-“Grizzly”-Assisted by Memphis rapper Yo Gotti, this track evokes the truest representation of the hustler spirit. And not just the drug dealer element, either. Hard working people find that this song gives that level of motivation or inspiration that you need to carry on. (This type of song can also be attributed to Rick Ross (“Hustlin’”) and T.I. (“ASAP”).

We use a lot of words in everyday life that we never really mean. For example, love or hate. Even iconic. The word I used in the title is the word I mean with every fiber of my being. Young Jeezy truly is the invincible Snowman. And no matter the weather, he will never fail or fall. Good show, Jeezy. Good show.

A$AP (As Smooth [or as soon] As Possible)

2012-01-30T14:46:00.000-08:00

At this moment a line from the Lil’ Flip song “Game Over” plays in my head. Here is the line:

Game over/ I’m about to change over/ It’s about time/ ‘Cause hip-hop needs a makeover

This is truth.

I have been listening to mixtapes like crazy. That, like anything, comes with both good and bad points that must be accounted for. But I am not particularly here to bore you with the rough patches. I want to give you the smooth spots that are helping to get hip-hop off of life support. One of the contributors to that is a New York rapper by the name of A$AP Rocky. His opening effort is titled LiveLoveA$AP.

Via Twitter I first heard about this guy. My last few forays into mixtapes via tweet of mouth have yielded positive results. I discovered Returnof4eva by Big K.R.I.T. and Codeine Cowboy by 2 Chainz. So I listened and I have to say that the hype is well deserved. The sound is explosive and quite eclectic. Granted he walks a lot of previously trod ground but the end result is quite appealing to the ears.

What really amazes me about A$AP Rocky is his delivery. Despite being from New York his drawl and his speech pattern evoke Houston rappers and much of the South. The liberal use of Southern vernacular such as ’lean’ and ‘trill’ also seems to enforce that thought. Maybe that is one of the reasons I have such an easy time listening to his music.

As always I would like to prescribe some of my favorite tracks for those who read this review. Here are a few:

-“Peso”-This song hits with a heavy bass and with a cooler vibe, the sort of song you’d ride to while smoking on something highly illegal. Something in the beat soothes you as if you were slipped something to calm anxiety. Although it’s a shorter song its 2:51 running time captures you from beginning to the end.

-“Demons”-At the beginning the voice distortion puts you right into the mindset of the title. As soon as A$AP begins to rap you are caught by the perfect mixture of contemplative thought and rap’s opulence and desires. Often you cannot find a perfect middle ground between the two but he seems to have found it. This song gives you a chill and plays out perfectly when you close your eyes. Try it.

-“Wassup”-I can’t honestly quantify this one. It has the club sound and could be a street anthem as well. The throbbing bass makes my heart beat a bit faster and I, being of the South, love that feeling. There is also a certain eeriness in the beginning samples of the song. It’s different and different usually transforms itself flawlessly into amazing. This is one of those times.

I am curious what he’ll do to follow this up. All I can say is that if you haven’t already, jump on some A$AP Rocky as soon as possible.

The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly (Week of 1/15-1/21)

2012-01-30T14:31:00.000-08:00

1.Blue Sky Carter-First of all, I would like to congratulate Beyonce Knowles and Sean Carter on their first child. The name, however, is interesting to me. I’m not trying to be funny but it feels like her name kinda pigeonholes into the same line of work as her parents. It would be as if I named my first son Driver. It’ll be really interesting to see what their little girl becomes. If it’s an entertainer, she’s got some big shoes to fill.

MY TAKE: GOOD and/or BAD

2.UNDUN-I have always been a fan of The Roots. Since I first heard “Break You Off” I have been a fan. With every album they seem to be capable of doing no wrong. The same can be said of Undun, the first concept album from the group. As with everything it falls on the ear perfectly and leaves you thinking. I personally appreciate that. Hopefully when you get to hear it you will, too.

MY TAKE: GOOD

3.“Stupid Ho”-You know how the Internet has a handful of your possible tracks from your upcoming albums? I happened to hear one from Nicki Minaj’s album. Most unfortunately it was “Stupid Ho”. I’ll be honest with you: I felt like my auditory senses got raped in the time I was listening to that song. The only redeeming quality was that the beat was kinda catchy.

MY TAKE: UGLY

4.GLEE and Michael Jackson-At the outset of things I want to say that I haven’t caught the Glee fever like everyone else. But my ears did prick up when I heard their next episode was going to honor the King of Pop Michael Jackson. At the beginning of this article I say something about big shoes to fill. Glee has that going on as well. This is an iconic artist and if you honor him, your tribute must equally iconic. Here’s hoping they pull it off.

MY TAKE: UGLY if done wrong, GOOD if done right

5.2 Chainz-It is hard to deny that 2011 was the year of Tity Boi (aka 2 CHAINZ!!). You had to be dead or cut off from hip-hop to not have heard his epic mixtape CODEINE COWBOY. 2 Chainz also did interviews, featured on songs, and tweeted up a storm. What do I want to see from him this year? A full length studio album. Let’s get to it, 2 Chainz.

MY TAKE: GOOD

The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly (Week of 12/11-12/17)

2011-12-16T21:05:00.000-08:00

With a new year fast approaching us I thought that it would be fun to begin my own segment of sorts for the site. As such I present The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly. Its intent is to be a personal list of things, present and future, that are truly wonderful (or horrible) in the hip-hop world. Owing to the desire not to bog readers down with too many words I have decided to pick at least five (5) topics to discuss. Here goes:

1. Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded- Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded is the title of rapper Nicki Minaj’s upcoming second album, due out Valentine’s Day 2012. To be completely honest, I’m conflicted here. I am unsure of what to expect from Minaj’s sophomore effort. Judging off the title alone we’re going to be seeing A LOT more of her alter ego Roman Zolanski. By no means am I downing her creativity because that alone (along with certain verses, features, and attributes) has propelled Nicki into the stratosphere. All I am saying is that I hope this next effort from her breaks some new ground and moves out of the shadow of “Your Love” or “Moment 4 Life”.

MY TAKE: GOOD

2. Big K.R.I.T.-Is there really any stopping Big K.R.I.T.? I mean, really? This had been a damn good year for the Meridian, MS native. Let’s look at it:

•Two really excellent mixtapes out this year. The most recent is Last King 2: God's Machine, preceded by the amazing (and my personal soundtrack for part of the year) Return of 4Eva.

•Production for mixtapes, such as Chris Brown’s Boy In Detention, and for upcoming projects like T.I.’s upcoming album Trouble Man.

•Preparing his debut studio album Live From The Underground, rumored to be due out early in the first quarter of 2012.

K.R.I.T. makes me believe in hip-hop again and that’s…

MY TAKE: GOOD

3. Hip-hop videos-Where should I begin? I think we need more than just arrogant boasts, liquor promos, and someone’s half naked daughter dancing to the track. I love the female form but damn. If I see one more thick booty shaking to a video that has no need or no meaning with surpluses of naked ass around I think I may scream. A Travis Porter video, fine. Not sure what naked girls has to do with being “a boss”, though. Maybe Rick Ross or Meek Mill can explain it.

MY TAKE: BAD

4. Soulja Boy-And he’s coming out with a new album because…? Does anyone out there reading this know why? Because, honestly…I don’t. Soulja Boy and his music remind me of something, something horrible. You’ve all seen The Matrix, right? You remember what Smith said as he was threatening to crush Morpheus’ head in his hands? I do…

“…You're a plague and we are the cure.”

Yeah. He’s tentatively calling the album Promise. Make me a promise, OK? Stay gone.

MY TAKE: UGLY

5. 2012-A new year is coming. It’s full of promise, rises, falls, good (and bad) music, and politicking. I tweeted maybe a week ago about that same sort of sentiment. Here’s what I said:

@LouieLafate: Eyes looking towards 2012 as a new set of opportunities...

Hope we can all see it together…

MY TAKE: GOOD

Royalty Magazine Nominated for Award

2011-12-11T07:33:00.000-08:00

Royalty Magazine has been nominated for the Elegant Hoodness "I Expose" Award, your love and support is appreciated by voting. To vote please click here...

Amp up your Lifestyle (Winter Wonderland Issue) XS Energy Drinks

2011-11-24T08:21:00.000-08:00

Now adays (unless you are rich) it is getting harder and harder to make it just working a regular 9 to 5. With limited resources, lack of financial support and a bad economy...more and more people are starting to step out the box by building their own business.

Royalty Magazine respects that hustle and will use this section to highlight business professionals of various backgrounds.

Biz~Pro Spotlight

Royalty Magazine:  Slanging energy drinks is definetely something new and creative (especially for minorities), how did you get started and what is your passion behind XS Energy drinks?

Big Sean:  I started as a former IBO for Amway Global March17,2009. I left the company due to creative differences promoting the product, now I'm an independent operator. My passion is knowing XS Energy Drink can give Red Bull a run for it's money.

RM:  In being in general competition with Red Bull, Monster, 5 hour and other brand name known energy drinks...how does XS stand out amongst the competition?

Big Sean: What makes XS stands out is 14 great tasting flavors, potent mix of B vitamins, premium herbs and no sugar.

RM: What are some of your best selling/tasting flavors?

Big Sean: Best tasting selling flavors is Wild Berry, Cherry and Tropical Blast.

RM: If you had one chance and one impression to sell your movement, how would you describe it? Why should people holla at you when their ready to Amp up their lifestyle?

Big Sean: People should holla when I say "Amp Up Your Lifestyle" because it means to try to energize and motivate yourself to greater passion as well as inspiration to try XS Energy Drinks.

RM: You are definitely out here pushing your product and its evident its something you believe in, how do you promote yourself? What are people's first impression when you tell them about XS Energy drinks?

Big Sean: I promote myself by giving out buisness cards and telling people to watch my youtube videos of XS Energy Drinks.  Most peoples 1st impression is skeptical, but once they try a sample of XS Energy Drinks their demeanor changes.

RM: Any advice to someone who is looking to launch their own business who may not have the resources or confidence to do so? What would you say to them? How do you stay consistant during an economy that seems to fall harder amongst minorities, poverty and low income families?

Big Sean: My advice to anyone who wants to start their buisness is to be patient, persistant and dream. It took me 3 years to get to this level so expect some speed bumps along the way.

I stay consistent by getting on my grind and networking.

RM: Any last words/comments/shot outs?

Big Sean: Shout out to DJ Big Cal of Linklive Entertainment, Ad the Genaral & Fe Fe of Elegant Hoodness, Urban Media TV staff, Bigger and Better Thangs Staff, MSG, NYC.

RM: How can people keep up with you? What is your website info?

Big Sean: People can keep up with me by going to facebook,myspace,twitter,youtube(Sean Felder XS Energy Drinks)felderse1@yahoo.com and PromoteMyself Website.Also look for me on Unsyned Heatt DVD Magazine with DJ Frank White promoting XS Energy Drinks.And www.eventbug.com and they will blow up me and XS Energy Drinks.

Check out one of Big Sean's interviews below....

The Social Network

2011-11-17T16:08:00.000-08:00

I’m not particularly sure if anyone other than myself has noticed it but social media has become almost a joke. By definition alone it’s supposed to be used for social means and sharing certain media between people. As of late it’s been clogged with half naked females, stupidity, high school drama, and all types of nonsense. But, occasionally, you find a rose amid the weeds. Case in point: the hip-hop duo Southside Celebrity. Through a mutual acquaintance on Twitter I met two young rappers who give me hope for hip-hop. This duo consists of Atlanta rappers Ceeno Hatas (@CeenoHatas) and Alkebulan (@AlkebulanX2). I’ve downloaded mixtapes from them and have been thoroughly impressed with the production as well as the sound. But this review isn’t about them. It’s about a friend of theirs by the name of Curtis Williams (@ThatBoyCurtis).

More often than not greatness seeks out equal greatness. I can say this is true of Curtis Williams. After reading a tweet about his newest mixtape Trill Shit Only (his sophomore effort) I decided to check it out and see if the music lived up to the hype. I am very happy to say that it exceeds it. The first thing I noticed was the laid back sound you get from Mr. Williams. It’s an almost syrupy quality that is wonderful to the ears. The songs presented boast features from fellow Atlanta rappers Alkebulan and MoneyMakinNique (@mOneyMakinNique) and countless others. Each feature is well laced and near flawless. One of my favorite tracks has to be “Missing Us”, a perfectly confident player’s anthem of sorts featuring Alkebulan. A few tracks also had me enamored and lost in Williams’ Trill world. Here they are:

•“Money In The Walls” (ft. Hardaway Smith)-This track evokes that gangster sort of vibe that you automatically feel when you think about movies like The Godfather or American Gangster. Upon listening to this one you’d be inclined to think of the latter based on the use of one of the movie’s quotes (“The loudest one in the room is the weakest in the room”)

•“London, Paris”-I’m a movie buff as well as lover of music. When I sit back and allow this track to play I’m in put in mind of The Thomas Crown Affair, the ultimate heist movie. Williams’ words and their content collide well to make something wonderfully smooth and easy to listen to.

So all I have left to say is this: you should be downloading this as soon as you can. http://indy.livemixtapes.com/mixtapes/15296/curtis_williams_trill_shit_only.html. Go and get it now!

A Once And Future Thing…

2011-11-17T11:29:00.000-08:00

For a long time I have been without much hope for hip-hop. Based on what has become popular in such an influential genre I was forced to believe that the death of hip-hop would come after all. Because I was one of the ones who, despite liking the content, wholly disagreed with the title of Nas’ 2006 album (Hip Hop Is Dead for those not paying attention) I was hoping for the world to change. Nowadays I feel a shift in the paradigm of club tracks and nonsensical songs. Concepts and depth are slowly creeping back into this world we all love so much. Here in this article I will enumerate what can be expected from the future of hip-hop, whether it be good, bad, or indifferent. Let’s begin.

•The Much Anticipated: With everything that’s happening in hip-hop, more great songs are being thought up and concepts explored. There are many debut albums that look to hoped to be enduring classics. One such album (an album yours truly is looking forward to) is the debut LP of Meridian, MS rapper Big K.R.I.T. entitled Live from the Underground. Other rappers who we can anticipate great things from include 2 Chainz, Wiz Khalifa, and Big Sean to name a few. This year has proven that these men and more are hungry to break through.

•One Hitters: As much as it pains me to say it, expect more of those one hit wonders to come about. Granted, given the climate, they will be fewer than in recent years. As a quote once said, you can’t have lightning without the thunder. A little thunder is on hip-hop’s horizon.

•Hungry Ones: I have noticed that the hip-hop community is hungrier these days. I am so happy to say that particular statement includes established artists. Ludacris, for example, has put out a new mixtape (1.21 Gigawatts) that shows that despite his place in the hip-hop community he’s still a monster seeking to devour anything and everything. The underground scene is full to bursting with people who are poised to burst on the scene with a new flavor and a new scene.

•Creativity Resurrected: It’s great to see that creativity is making some sort of resurgence. I’m not sure about you but I had long since grown tired of half-naked gyrations and over the top bragging. Finally rappers are using their heads for more than a place for a hat.

Suffice to say 2012 looks to be a great year. Elections, the promise of a better day, and the certain rise of hip-hop.

The Showcase 2 (Winter Wonderland Issue)

2011-11-15T17:05:00.000-08:00

Royalty Magazine's Chief Editor TazDatMC caught up with Maryland's first pornstar/bisexual rapper "Imani the Misfit". From his sexuality to his views on God to his outspoken mind...Imani tends to face alot of controversy. What's your thoughts on hiphop's Misfit? Check out the interview below...

Royalty Magazine: What's good Imani? How was your summer? Anything special popping off for the upcoming Holidays?

Imani the Misfit: Im doing good, and my summer was nice. Alot of great memories. I dont celebrate Christmas but Im looking forward to spending time with my family on Thanksgiving.

RM: Tell us more about your name. Is Imani your real name? And why are you referred to as the Misfit?

Imani: Imani is swahili for faith. For me, the name "Imani The Misfit" actually translates into "Faith in the Misfit". I created that name for myself as a reminder to myself to have faith in myself. The "Misfit" part is special to me because it reflects my philosophy on life. Any great person that every changed the world started out as a misfit. It takes an unusual person to change the world, and my whole agenda is to promote the idea that being unusual or being bizarre is a good thing when you are trying to bring change. There is nothing wrong with being a misfit. Being a misfit is beautfiul and we should all be proud of the things that make us different.

RM: How did you get started rapping? What pushed you to take that step to make music part of your life?

Imani: Ive always had a dream of being in the entertainment industry, so music and entertainment has always been apart of my life. I first started rapping at 13 as a hobby. It wasnt until years later that I decided to take rap serious and pursue it heavily. I can say that the main element that pushed me to make that step was listening to 2pac's music. I say this all the time in all my interviews. If it wasnt for 2pac, I would not be a rapper. I may not even be alive. There were times in my life when I was severly depressed and suicidal, and 2pac's music was the only voice I had that made me feel like I wasnt alone. 2pac was the type of rapper that made his life an open book, and alot of the things he would talk about in his music were things that most rappers would never talk about, but because of this he was able to touch alot of people deeply. When he openly talked about having suicidal thoughts and feeling worthless in his songs, it made me feel like I wasnt alone. 2pac's music affected my life in alot of ways, it was my therapy. All I ever wanted was to return the favor. I got into rap so that I can be a role model to someone else that 2pac was for me. I wanted to be the big brother or the friend to people out there who have no friends. Thats what pushes me.

RM: Yeah 2pac was deep, I can dig it! Do you remember your first rhyme? If so, what was it about?

Imani: I dont remember the whole rhyme, but here are the parts I remember:

I talk about life while you talk about heaters
Trying to get a girl with your fake ass beeper?
You want to hang with us?
If you aint fam then bang with us
If you aint down then you cant hear my sound
If you aint the king then you cant wear the crown...

Thats all I can remember... I was only 13

RM: Lol..that's cool. I only remember bits and pieces of my first rhyme too. You are very outspoken about your sexuality. At what age did you discover you were bisexual and how did you deal with it? Was your family supportive? If not, who would you say was your support team during that time?

Imani: I can remember having my first crush on a girl when I was about 4. My first crush on a guy was when I was 13. I came from an environment where male bisexuality was unaccepted, so I hid my attraction for men and only acknowledged my attraction for girls. It wasnt until later in my adulthood that I embraced my sexuality and accepted myself as a bisexual man.

When I told my parents and my family, at first they were upset, but after awhile they got over it. I had a female friend at the time who was my support system when I first came out. I would tell her about all the guys I was messing around with. I also watched alot of Chris Crocker and Johnny Boy videos. Those people are very brave and inspiring to me.

RM: When did you decide to incorporate your bisexuality with your music? What was your fan response when you came out and started (as you would say) spitting homosexual lyrics?

Imani: Soon after I accepted my bisexuality is when I made the decision to come out of the closet with it. It wasnt long. On the day that I revealed myself, I had accepted my bisexuality a month before. Alot of fans unfriended me and unsubscribed my YouTube, but at the same time, I gained alot of new fans who actually appreciated me more than my old fans.

RM: You are also "something like a porn star", what prompted you to start doing adult videos and why?

Imani: Part of it has to do with me being uncircumsized, Ive always felt sort of special because of that. Ive always had fantasies about exposing my penis to the world and being in porn films. Ever since I was a child and saw my first porno I wanted to be in one. I think that alot of people have fantasies about being in porn, but most people never make that jump because of family or jobs. I wanted to break that barrier. I just dont like the hypocrisy of society when it comes to porn. Most people who persecute and degrade people in the adult industry are people who have personal porn collections themselves. I mean, the porn industry is a billion dollar industry. You dont make that much money unless you have a huge audience.

I dont think anyone should be ashamed of masturbating, watching porn or being porn. If thats what you enjoy, embrace it. I love my naked body, I love my penis and I love to masturbate on camera. The fact that thousands of people have seen me pleasuring myself on camera is a turn on for me. I love knowing that thousands of people have masturbated to my pictures and videos along with me. I love it and enjoy it every minute of it.

RM: There is alot of controversy around you as an artist, porn star as well as a person. I've seen first hand a few instances via video and/or blogs where cats were coming at you or trying to expose you. Does it ever piss you off or do you just keep it moving? How do you tend to deal with the dissing, blogging and hateful comments?

Imani: Sometimes its scary, because when people publicly say cruel things about you, you dont know how people are going to take it. After awhile I learned how to deal with it though. I take it as a compliment. I look at it this way. Military planes get shot at when they are flying over enemy territory, right? So the fact that people are beginning to take shots at me indicates that Im a threat. For some people, the amount of change you will make in society can be determined by how much of a perceived threat you are. Its actually a testament to the power of my message.

RM: Interesting way to put it, I like that flying over enemy territory theory lol. You have strong beliefs about bisexuality, God and just how you view the world. Can you give us a few insights about those beliefs and explain to our readers how you came to feel the way you do?

Imani: Bisexuality is natural and normal. God doesnt exist. I came to feel this way by being brutally honest with myself and challenging everything that I have been taught.

RM: We all have our different views on God so we'll have to touch more on that next go round. In the meantime, for those that think that you use your bisexuality as a gimmick, what do you want to say to them?

Imani: They're right. I do use my sexuality as a gimmick to break stereotypes about bisexual men and also to inspire other bisexual men to embrace their sexuality and accept themselves. So far, it works. When I have young people sending me messages telling me that they came out of the closet because of MY music and videos, I know Im doing the right thing. What people say about me is irrelevant. So many people consider gimmicks a bad thing, but every successful music artists uses gimmicks and alot of times they have positive aspects to them if used correctly.

RM: Any other comments/last words/shot outs?

Imani: Believe and have faith in yourself at all costs. Dont ever let someone tell you what you cant do. When I first came out of the closet, everybody told me that I was committing career suicide and nobody would take me serious. Yet as of today, Ive been interviewed by 40 different internet radio stations and this is my 18th website feature. If I would have listened to everybody around me, none of this would have happened for me. Im living proof that anything is possible when you have faith and belief in yourself.

RM: What is your twitter and/or website info so people can check out some of your work as well as follow you?

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ImaniTheMisfit

YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/ImaniTMisfit

Buy my music on iTunes: http://tinyurl.com/3fvekjh

My Clothing Company : http://misfit.spreadshirt.com/

XTube: http://www.xtube.com/amateur_channels/amateur.php?u=ImaniMisfit

RM: Thanks for the interview...much appreciated.

Imani: Thank you for giving me the chance to tell my story!!!!

Courtesy of @TazDatMC for Royalty Magazine

The Showcase (Winter Wonderland Issue)

2011-11-12T09:40:00.000-08:00

And this months light shines on....

Rob Ross

TazDatMC of Royalty Magazine caught up with Seattle's own Rob Ross. Here is how it went down...

Royalty Magazine: What's good fam?

Rob Ross: ‘Life

Royalty Magazine: How are things on your end?

Rob Ross: ‘Everything is moving...

Royalty Magazine: Tell us about Rob Ross?

Rob Ross: We don’t have enough room for all that, let’s jus say all business man!

Royalty Magazine: Lol. I can dig it...What is your position in this industry?

Rob Ross: C.E.O one of my many handles is "Mr. BusinessMan" cause I’m all Business Man.

Royalty Magazine: Why are you referred to as the hood dentist?

Rob Ross: I do gold grillz, whatever you can think of as long as you can afford it lol….

Royalty Magazine: Lol...I can dig it! Tell us about Penny Pinchin records.

Rob Ross: We started in 95, my Cousin Mr. Benjamin and a few other cats was doing a comp called "the Best of the Northwest". Well the other guy involved thought it would be better that we all start our own companies...so I did. My brother Jay Suade was locked up @ the time, but I asked him to give me some names to add with the ones I already came up with. Anyways on his next call he was like I got it "Penny Pinchin"! My first reaction was hell no but he said read the definition so I did. I laughed at him because the definition was "Stingy". He laughed and said like scrooge so it stuck…

Royalty Magazine: What is your objective and overall mission of the label?

Rob Ross: Get a team of real folks that want the same things I want and go as hard as we can so that we be heard for the next 20-30 yrs.

Royalty Magazine: Being a promoter and working in this industry, you have come across a lot of talent. In your opinion, what makes an artist hot?

Rob Ross: The same thing that makes you a success in any business hard work & dedication, back in the day it took real talent and who you knew…

Royalty Magazine: What makes an artist and/or career fail?

Rob Ross: No drive jus setting on your hands inconsistency.

Royalty Magazine: Being from the town (Seattle), who would you say are some local artists to look out for?

Rob Ross: EVERYBODY!!!!

Royalty Magazine: I know you always got some ish poppin! Tell us about a few of your upcoming shows and/or projects...

Rob Ross: And you know this man (in my Chris Tucker voice)...I have a mixtape droppin soon with DJ topspin and you will be able to get it on pennypinchinrecords.com in a month or so. My Birthday is in Dec so stay tuned on my facebook pages/website for location and dates...San Quinn rockin with me too….

Royalty Magazine: That's wassup! What is your website or contact info?

Rob Ross: Facebook.com/robross or facebook.com/robhoodentistross also facebook.com/infoteambiz coming soon pennypinchinrecords.com

Royalty Magazine: Any last words/comments/shout outs...

Rob Ross: Jockquess, Mr. Benjamin, Young Fast, Butch the Bully, Suade Dogg,Yellow linez, Drako, Body Guard, Royal Events, Presidenal Media, Seaspot, Frontline promo, Dj Peg, Dj Sean malik, Dj Ddox, Jin Poppas Ent., Tenacaces Ent., Dahlak Restaurant, Trophies Bar, Sk Studios And everyone on my up and coming mixtape...

Royalty Magazine: Good looking out for the interview love...keep grinding! #TownBizness

Chief Editor @TazDatMC also caught up with Sev Da Producer.

Royalty Magazine: What's good with you? How was your summer?

Sev Da Producer: I can't complain. Bills are paid. Family is safe and secure. My summer was actually good. I spent a great deal of time with family and visited a few places.

RM: That's wassup... Tell us who is Sev Da Producer? Describe yourself in 5 words or less...

Sev: Different. Creative. Driven. Cautious. Deadly.

RM: How did you get started producing? What pushed you to take that first step and start making beats?

Sev: I actually started out as a rapper. The thought of me producing a record never crossed my mind. I didn't even know how people made beats for that matter. However, I was always into music but I was rapping at first. It was only until I was trying to make an original demo that I learned about production. It was then that I realized that I needed original beats and the only place to get them were from producers. Finding the producers wasn't the problem, the prices they were charging was the problem. So that whole budget scenario forced me into learning how to produce for myself. I guess it payed off in the long run.

RM: I can dig it! In being an emcee I can understand because I used to play around with beats myself because of some of the same factors. I didn't stick with it, but I know what you mean. That's cool! Do you remember your first beat? Was it hot or wack? How have you grown over the years?

Sev: Ahhh.... My first beat. I remember it like it was yesterday. It was really hard to say how good it was because everything I produced was judged differently at that time. I was viewed as a person that had no idea how to produce a record at all and then all of a sudden out of nowhere I began producing music. I felt my first beat was the greatest record ever created but that was only in my opinion. Not to mention that I was a beginner. However, I didn't want to rely on my ears only so I played it for all of the rappers in my area and most of them agreed that I had a skill to produce. I later realized that it must be good because people would randomly start rapping seconds after I press play. I believe that I have increased my skill over the years though. My ear has developed greatly over the years to the point that I hear sounds better or differently. Most of it is due to the amount of growing technology that we now have available. I am able to manipulate sound in ways that I never thought were possible before.

RM: You recently produced your first music video. Tell us what that experience was like? What has been your fans response? Can we expect anymore videos?

Sev: I actually had my own public access television show back in 05 called SEZWHO TV. My cousin JAY BLACK hosted the show and I did all of the camera work and editing. I always did video production and music production but later on I focused all of my attention to the music production side of everything. I enjoy shooting videos as much as I do producing music. It was fun making my most recent video with my homie "Dimez the Bully". We were actually sitting in the studio when I was messing around with the drum machine. I created the beat on the spot and he just pinned some lyrics right there. I wanted to get back into the filming side of things so we set a date and shot a video. People love the video from what I am hearing. Most of the feedback would come through fans of Dimez because they love his music and like to see visuals. However, most people don't know me for directing videos so its still settling in. The people that saw the video was shocked when they seen how I can create an entire piece. Sound and Visual. Its great because I have several artists that I am creating visuals for.

RM: I can dig it! Looking forward to seeing more of your projects. What are some of your other accomplishments? Upcoming projects?

Sev: There were so many things that I have done that made me happy. Winning the 09 UMA for Emerging producer of the year was a great feeling. It just made me realize how many people actually see me emerging. Producing the intro on Lloyd Banks V5 mixtape was definitely another great moment for me. However, there is so much more that I want to do that this is not even fraction of what I consider an accomplishment, i consider them great moments.

Right now I am working on a short film for my #sevstories twitter posts. Stay tuned for that because it is definitely going to be something different. I am turning my tweets into a visual for all of my readers. I am producing records for a few artists over seas and locally and just enjoying life at the same time. I have a lot of great things to come but I don't want to let all of the secrets out of the bag yet.

RM: True! A visual for your tweets is def some different. Sounds interesting. I will be looking out for it. Who are some artists that you have worked with? Would like to work with?

Sev: I worked with hundreds of underground artists all across the United States and overseas. However, most people know me for the work I did with    Lloyd Banks, Charlie Clips, Ransom, Hedonis Da Amazon, Trilogy, Fred the Godson and more. I honestly like to work with artists that can take my beats to the next level. Artists that can turn a good beat into a great record.

RM: Being from an area that is so competitive, what makes you stand out as a producer? Why should artists let you produce their track?

Sev: There are many ways to separate yourself from the competition but what separates everybody no matter what is the music. I simply focus on making music that I like to create. I make music with the intent to dictate the radio. I don't allow the radio to dictate what I am going to make. Artists have the choice. If they want me to produce the record its because they want my sound not because it was forced on them.

RM: Any advice to upcoming artists and business professionals?

Sev:
    1) Write all of your ideas down.
     2) Prioritize your ideas.
     3) Execute a plan that will bring your idea to life.
     4) Work until you see results.

RM: Any comments/shout outs/last words?

Sev: I would like to thank you for the interview and allowing people to get to know me a little more. Life is hard but we must remain positive at all times.

RM: Real Talk. Thank you for taking the time out to chop it up. Good interview! What is your twitter? How can people keep up with you?

Sev: You can catch me on twitter 24/7 @sevdaproducer or hit up SEVGOTBEATS.COM

What other artists are shining?

Royalty Magazine's Chief Editor TazDatMC also caught up with Maryland's first pornstar/bisexual rapper "Imani the Misfit". From his sexuality to his views on God to his outspoken mind...Imani tends to face alot of controversy. What's your thoughts on hiphop's Misfit? Click here to check out his exclusive interview...

Town Bizness (Winter Wonderland Issue)

2011-11-12T09:28:00.000-08:00

Highlighting Talented Artists From the Great NorthWest!

What does the town have brewing at the moment? Peep Game:

NW Spotlight "Rob Ross"

This month Rob Ross made the cover of Royalty Magazine! To check out his feature and exclusive interview, click here or picture below...

Who else is shining in the town?

Miz Teflon is holding it down for the town. She has started her own record label, movement and is always grinding!

Make sure you check out her music at www.reverbnation.com/mzteflon2011

Ear Hustlin (Winter Wonderland Issue)

2011-11-12T08:53:00.000-08:00

Chillin' with Tazzy - the Chief Editor

Whut it do? Make sure you check out my music as well as site. I am working on some new heat that should be dropping early 2012! Spit Don't Swallow (the Mixtape)...coming soon...

www.tazdatmc.com/
www.Reverbnation.com/TazDatMC

Blackout Mode

This is a new section that I like to call Blackout Mode. I will feature music, videos, etc from two of my favorite rappers "Redman" & "Methodman". I will also show videos from their entourages and collaborative emcees. I don't think they get the props or credit they deserve so with me being a fan & a media outlet to the underground, I am giving respect where respect is due! If you have any videos or suggestions, holla at me on twitter @tazdatmc

Hiphop at its finest!!!!!!!!

Tazzy's exclusive interview with Mec-One....

Royalty Magazine: What's good Mec? How was your summer?

Mec-One: I'm good,as far as my summer it was ok could have been better lol!

RM: Awww I know how that can be. So how is the grind treating you? What new projects do you have in circulation and/or about to release?

Mec: The grind has been great! I really love what i do regardless of money or no money. As far as project's...I just dropped a few mixtapes "Heatwave" vol.1 & 2 & "Murder Spree" Hacked 4.  I'm also about to work on my 5th installment of the Halloween series "Murder Spree" Hacked 5. But you know what?? Everyday is Halloween for me so imma drop these mixtape series regardless lol!

RM: Lol. I can dig it! I am also digging the Mixtapes on Deck site that you made. Creating another outlet for artists to upload their mixtape so they can get additional exposure is dope all in itself! What prompted the move to design a mixtape site? How has the artist response been since you launched the site?

Mec: Well it's in it's prime, kinda too early to tell but slowly but surly artists are submitting their project's so that's cool. As far as me doing this, I do it because I love mixtapes (always have...always will). This is just my way of showing love to the artist who's seriously on their grind & at the same time I'm promoting myself as well as my team.

So on that note, artists if you have something just submit it! It's as easy as 1,2,3 to post up your submission. All I expect in return is that the artist just post my banner on their mixtapes in support of the site.

RM: That is a sweet deal. You have got show love to get it back! That's the only way that we can make some sort of progress with the moves we make. Anyways, I've checked out the site and it's tight! Off top, what are some must peep mixtapes on your site and how can people download them?

Mec: Well most mixtapes are linked to other mixtape sites like datpiff etc. All they have to do is click the cover & it will link you to that site where the download is. Well we got a few gems on there by us like Easy's solo mixtape "Easy behave (free easy edition)" ,Preamo's "Man the Fuck up" mixtape & "Army of Four (generals at war)". Other than that I mostly have industry artist mixtapes by top DJ's so get your fix where everything is on deck! lol!

RM: Lol. That's wassup! You not only drop your own mixtapes but you are also a producer, how did you get started making beats?

Mec: Well it goes back to 2002 because that is where I first started playing the keyboard. The first program I ever used was logic platinum.  I was inspired by a few friends who were doing it at the time & was showed how to use the program to make my beat's sound better...I was also inspired by the great's like Pete Rock, Hovoc of Mobb Deep, DJ Premiere, Alchemist, Rza & the producer's from Dipset & so on & the rest was history.

RM: Do you remember the first instrumental you composed? What pushed you to take that first step to make a beat and what equipment did you use to make it? Was it hot or wack?

Mec: Yes my first beat was super wack lol! But like always you gotta crawl before you walk! Not every beat on your first try is alway's goina be hot...but as time went by I was getting better.

The first keyboard I ever used was a ASR & from there I started using the Oxygen 8 Mini
Keyboard (a dummy keyboard with logic exs 24 library stock sounds).

RM: You seem to handle the beats as well as mixtapes and Big Skilly seems to hold down the video production side of things. How did yall two hook up and what can we expect to see from the movement in 2012?

Mec: Yes I handle the graphics, the DJing,the music production, recording's as well as promotion. While Big Skilly handles the video's & eblast's, which is a very heavy promotional tool he take's care of. So expect more production from me as well as mixtape's and new video's from Big Skilly Films featuring artists like Triple Threat, Kennedy Clemente, Preamo & Mo-Barz.

RM: I can dig it! Being from New York how do you stay consistant with the competition? What makes you stand out as a producer and why should artists let you produce their record?

Mec: Our grind is crazy! We are not only on one website our product is posted on various blogs, mixtape site's, video site's & on the street's as well. But since this is the grind of the future...we mostly promote and network on the net, which is a very productive as well as effective way to reach out to the viewers & listener's. It doesn't matter if they hate it or love it because they still seeing us! Most artists only promotional tool is their hood, datpiff, facebook & youtube & call it a night...but it is what it is!

RM: Real Talk! So how do you feel about the current state of hiphop? Where do you see it going over the next few years?

Mec: I mean as far as hip hop everybody doing the samething "money, hoe's, murder...not to much lyrical content...to be honest it's leaning more to the South.  I see the Eastcoast to the Westcoast bumping the South style of music. I got no real beef with that cause it's not really too much of the beats, it's the lyrical content that's put on them beats which is trash lol! But I've heard some nice rappers spit to them South beats really nice & keep it hip hop regardless.

As far the radio goes...I dont really listen to it just the mixtape's because most them artists are hungry like when 50 started...

RM: Any last words/comments/shot outs?

Mec: Yes I would like to thank my supporter's from the UK Lou Lou production's (the kartel family producer's in the uk) jimus, ranger, the artist Mo-Barz, Preamo, Triple Threat, G3mz, Tazdatmc, Big Skilly Films, Dinero Management, Shawn Butter's, Crime Square DJ's from harlem, S.T. da Nomad & whoever else I forgot just many too name lol!

RM: How can people keep up with you as well as check out some of your work?

Mec: Hit me up on twitter/meconeproduct or www.facebook.com/meconeproduct & my facebook band page mec-one productions & www.mixtapesondeck.com & www.bigskillyfilms.com

RM: That's wassup Mec! Good looks on the interview fam...keep grinding...much respect!

Video(s) of the Month

Hiphop ThrowBacks

RIP Heavy D

It's crazy because Heavy D just performed a few weeks ago on the BET awards. This was Heavy's first performance in 15 years. I am blessed to have been able to seen that performance as well as have gotten a chance to know one of hiphop's finest. Here is Heavy at this years BET awards...

R&B Throwbacks

Movie ThrowBacks

Thank you for checking out my section! If you want to be featured, have questions or video suggestions...holla at ya girl on twitter @tazdatmc

Also last issue I had a chance to catch up with Big Skilly of Big Skilly Films...click here to check out his feature and exclusive interview.

Buzz Factor (Winter Wonderland Issue)

2011-11-11T16:40:00.000-08:00

Written by A.D. the General

MISURE aka Gentleman is a native of Virginia. He was first bought to my attention by a fellow media personality in NYC (Tim Hopewell). I recall our first conversation via the telephone. He was so full of energy and he definitely lived up to his name. We exchanged emails and less than hour later I was back on the phone with him. Eager and impressed with his ability to create the beat write the lyrics and his vocal ability reminded me of another Virginia native (SISCO of Dru Hill). I am genuinely excited about this artist and want to remind where you heard of him first. N.A.B. is always bringing you the rawest and purest talents across the country. Today we introduce to you MISURE!!!

A.D. THE GENERAL: Break down your name Misure?

MISURE: Misure (monsieur) is French for gentleman... I Americanized it lol!! I’m still a true believer that being a gentleman to the ladies will always get you further!

A.D. THE GENERAL: How long have you been singing? And what inspired you to start singing?

MISURE: Wow! My whole life, I actually started as a dancer but always sung on the low. As a matter of fact Actor Affion Crockett (Nick Cannons wildn out) grew up in the same city and we were in the same dance group. Although I was way younger than him I saw early that not only did I want to dance but wanted to perform! Ever since then I broke my singing silence and began winning shows, contests and events all over North Carolina...

A.D. THE GENERAL: You are also a writer and producer, a triple treat. When did you start producing and do you play any instruments? And which do you prefer if any of the three?

MISURE: I started producing hard about 5 yrs ago. I always had the sounds in my head and had to find away to express them. Through a lot of trial and error I finally feel that I am there as a producer. I produce everything from R&B to Hip Hop, to pop and even rock tracks. I naturally play the piano by ear...my dream is the acoustic guitar...I prefer all three...I feel like if you write, produce and sing your own song every aspect is exactly how you envisioned it. Just like making a sandwich. You and you alone put all the right meats, cheeses and condiments to make it the best meal. That’s my analogy of my music...all beats vocals and production are all Misure, No samples baby!

A.D. THE GENERAL: What do you bring to the table that other R&B artists haven’t brought to the table?

MISURE: Well I will never show any disrespect to any artist but I feel I’m bringing back true emotion of R&B. Back in the pre auto tune day’s artist sung from the heart...their lyrics meant something. You could hear the joy or the pain in their voice. I’m bringing back that type of feel in my music. It’s going to make you laugh, cry and chant along with great hooks and meaningful lyrics.

A.D. THE GENERAL: What do you feel about the current state of R&B and has R&B lost its way?

MISURE: I feel it’s been ruined...with a few exceptions in the game of course. It’s all about looks vs voice...remember the Al Green album? Dude had a regular haircut, Kool-Aid grin, and his taco meat hanging out his shirt! today’s listeners would have seen that cover and put it back on the shelf...that album had some of the greatest hits in R&B...smh...people need to realize the voice and meaning of music vs the superficial appearance of an artist...I don’t look half bad though!! lol

A.D. THE GENERAL: If the world could remember you by one quote what would it be?

MISURE: You believe in you before you try to make others believe in you.

A.D. THE GENERAL: Any last words for our reader and where can we listen and or download your music?

MISURE: I realize that without the ear of the average everyday listener that I would be nowhere...some of our successful brothers and sisters in the industry really need to remember that! I am so very grateful to all my fans, friends and believers of MISURE and TEAM MISURE NYC and TEAM MISURE VA. Thank you...

My music can be heard on
www.melodreamentertainment.com , www.youtube.com/vabeach2009, www.reverbnation.com/misure and also follow me and my moves on twitter @marcmisure as well as facebook.. Just search Marcus Misure George.

Written by: A.D. The General
Courtesy of The Elegant Hoodness Musical Program 2011

CHARLIE ROCK UPCOMING PRODUCER WINS @E.H.M.P BEAT BATTLE

CHARLIE ROCK

A.D. THE GENERAL: Lets start off with the name Charlie Rock what does it mean?

CHARLIE ROCK: Honestly the name was passed down to me by my father. (Not to be confused with Charlie Rock formerly of Terror Squad) The name just stuck with me since I was a kid.

A.D. THE GENERAL: You are from the Bronx NY the Mecca of Hip Hop. Do you feel any pressure to succeed and continue the legacy of some of the greats born in The Bronx?

CHARLIE ROCK: From KRS 1, Melly Mel, Big Pun, to Corey Gunz, Fred The Godson, and French Montana, the legacy is still here and in good hands. As for me, I think it’s a different expectation because I’m a producer. I think the most pressure comes from my self. I know what I’m capable of so I’m my own hardest critic. When you think of the Bronx and its contributions to Hip Hop or music in general, my name will be mentioned when it’s all said and done.

A.D. THE GENERAL: How long have you been producing and what inspired you to pursue a career in music?

CHARLIE ROCK: I’ve been into music all my life. I started out playing in church and it’s had a hold on me ever since. I’ve only been producing for 3 years now. Its crazy to think about the stuff I’ve made in such a short period of time compared to people who have been producing 10 years plus. I have over 200 full songs done. The catalog is only getting bigger.

A.D. THE GENERAL: How would you describe your style or production and what makes you the next hottest producer in the game?

CHARLIE ROCK: I don’t want to categorize in any genre of music. I want to be known as a producer who can sell a track to Lil Wayne then turn around and sell another track to Justin Bieber. I can make anything in any lane without trying to recreate what someone else has already done. I sound like me!

A.D. THE GENERAL: Do u play any instruments? And is your production sample free?

CHARLIE ROCK: I play the piano and the drums. Spending 6 hours in Church every Sunday when I was little can do that to you. Lol. I have a lot of sample free music as well as sampled beats. I can also take a song and play the whole thing over and give it a new feeling. That’s what being a producer is about.

A.D. THE GENERAL: Who do you dream of producing for?

CHARLIE ROCK: I would want to co-produce a record for Jay with Kanye. I think it'll be one of the best songs in music history period. J. Cole, Drake, Ceelo, Frank Ocean, Chrisette Michelle, Slaughter House just to name a few others. I also like working with the new artist that haven’t been discovered yet because the creativity with them is limitless.
A.D. THE GENERAL: Who have you been working with? And how does an artist get to work with you?

CHARLIE ROCK: I’ve been fortunate enough to work with a lot of artist and people who make good music. Any artist that takes this serious and wants to produce hit records can contact me. This industry is all about building relationships with people and making a good product. As long as you’re making what the people want, it’s undeniable.

A.D. THE GENERAL: Where can our readers hear some of those Fire beats?

CHARLIE ROCK: You can hear some of my music on my website 2011www.charlierocktid.com you can also follow me on twitter twitter.com/CharlieRockTID and on Facebook Charlie Rock and on your radio station very soon!

WRITTEN BY: A.D. THE GENERAL
COURTESY OF THE ELEGANT HOODNESS MUSICAL PROGRAM 2011

Ambition, consistency and grind are the key to success. And Blood Money Entertainment is living proof and testament to this quote. This organization has been putting there money where there mouth is and proving to them selves and there peers when u invest in yourself others will start noticing. They have won twice in a row in our Elegant Hoodness Musical Program in NYC and have been nominated for a Top Ten Artists of The Year Award. We caught up with STRO the ceo of B.M.E. himself to ask him how the news of the nomination and how all the media exposure has helped there cause. Remember where you heard it first!!! E.H.M.P. highlights B.M.E.

E.H.M.P: Congrats on your 2nd 1st win in a role at The Elegant Hoodness Musical Program. Do you have any predictions for the “Top Ten Artists of the Year Awards”?

B.M.E: No predictions, just striving to keep Blood Money Ent #1 as we should. We come from a humble background but we're very confident in our movement, therefore we always work hard and try to whip the first place spot to the oils :)

E.H.M.P: You guys have been opening up for Styles P, Jadakiss and several others. What has been your experience been like performing with questionable some of the best rappers of all time?

B.M.E: It's been a great experience! We've also taken the stage with Philadelphia's Gillie Da Kid and opened for Cassidy, Gunplay and Meek Mill. The opportunities have been coming one after another and it's been an honor to share the stage with some the industries legends such as Styles P.

E.H.M.P: Your new video for Whip it to the oils has been buzzing fast, who came up with the concept for the song and video?

B.M.E: Yes the video is taking off we had over 8,000 views within the first week of the initial youtube premiere! IRS aka "Mr Whip It 2 The Oils" came up with the initial concept. When he presented it to the team in a Workshop Wednesday freestyle session we had amongst ourselves weekly, everyone instantly knew it was a hit record and immediately started putting the bid in to be featured alongside IRS. The video concept was developed by the team alongside Kevin Townley UVF/Universal movie director. We went with the hangover theme in Atl and had a ball shooting the video partying how we do in philly on a regular basis.

E.H.M.P: Are you looking to be signed to a major label? Or would you rather continue to do the independent thing?

B.M.E: With the state of the industry, we would much rather be distributed by a major and continue on independent but if the right opportunity is presented, we would be more than happy to partner with a major in order to take our movement to the next level. Up to this point everything has been done from the muscle so signing to a major would just relieve some of the financial responsibility and allow us to focus more on artistry and enhance our fan base.

E.H.M.P:  So how many members are in B.M.E.? And who is the 1st artists you guys are pushing?

B.M.E: There are over 100 members of BME "Bloodmoney/Pure Punishment 100 Strong" is our motto. We are close friends and family that came up together and remained loyal to one another and we keep it that way. The artists that we have on the forefront right now are AK, Nonfiction, Pressure (Ro, and Alpo the Great), and IRS. The first artist to be pushed was Vicious who set the tone and paved the way for Nonfiction and AK to follow with their debut BME mixtapes "Nonfiction: Truth Shall Set You Free" and "AK: The Anonymous Killa".

E.H.M.P:  Who would you guys collaborate with if given the opportunity?

B.M.E: Styles P, Lauryn Hill, T.I. , Eminem, Rick Ross, Jeezy, Neyo etc...We’re open to work with anyone working hard and making music that's true to them.

E.H.M.P:  One word to describe B.M.E.?

B.M.E: Loyalty

E.H.M.P: Any shout out’s or thank you?

B.M.E: Thanks to the whole blood money ent family and pure punishment records, all of the fans and family members that are supporting our movement and helping us grow. Shout out Stro, Vicious, Tat, City, Vega, AD the General, Luis Toledo of True Unity Productions, Samantha Moore, OC Diesel, Temeka of Epik Promotions, Dre All Day and Bishop Twan from DMVTMZ, Franky J and DJ Exclusive, Fiya Chick of Airitoutradio.net and Batcave 2.0, Batcave Radio, QSE, Shelly Shell of Urban Xpressions, 91.7 A Moment With Purple, Kevin Townley, Bolo Da Producer, Jah Beats, Debbie The Glass Lady, Swayy Magazine, LJ Strictly Graphics, Pesos Clothing, Toybox Dollz, Diamond Song Services, Carvin Haggins, and all of the producers, promoters, family members and fans that have been supporting us and playing our music. Thank you Elegant Hoodness for the opportunity to share our talent with the city of New York. Until Next Time....Whip It 2 The Oils!

WRITTEN BY A.D. THE GENERAL
COURTESY OF THE ELEGANT HOODNESS MUSICAL PROGRAM

Out the Box (Winter Wonderland Issue)

2011-11-11T10:59:00.000-08:00

Royalty Magazine is reaching OUT THE BOX to bring you some talented artists in different genres.

This months light shines on...

Not Them: Hiphop/Electronic/Dance/DJ

The wordsmiths Gentleman J and The Dirt Merchant met in film school at Full Sail University. After a couple drunken freestyles at parties the dynamic duo decided to attempt writing songs, which never happened. It wasn’t until chance put them in the same house, aptly dubbed “The Stronghold”, where the Hip Hop magic began.

If every aspect of hip hop were in a digital picture, then Not Them! uses every single pixel in the frame.

They are an uber imaginative, poetically inclined, trail mix of soliloquies that are just as fun to hang out with, as they are to listen to.

After all, they are just trying to make friends…. with the world in mind.

For more on "Not Them", click here...

To see who was in our last issue of "Out the Box" please click here...

Below the Radar (Winter Wonderland Issue)

2011-11-11T09:03:00.000-08:00

Below the Radar with...

G3Mz & Ms FeFe!

GREG P “THE VOICE”

E.H.M.P CATCHES UP WITH GREP P "THE VOICE"

Greg P, born in the Bronx, grew up with the goal of always wanting something better in life. Although he had a strong love for music, he didn't focus on pursuing it at the time as in he felt that if he had to do music as a profession he would no longer love it. The notion later changed once he met a young talented musician by the name of Real Right in 2007. With a new sense of inspiration Greg P then started shaping his image, and his hunger & ambition for music increased. With this confidence Greg P began tearing down shows in hundreds of clubs and show cases throughout the 5 boroughs. His buzz began to build rapidly, not just for his own music at this point, but for his unique talent and creativity in bringing the best out of a song and making it a hit. Greg P was given his newer add-on for his name “The Voice" from his peers. Facing many obstacles in his life, music was the only thing that kept Greg together. Greg's intake on music states that "Music is not just what sounds good, but what you go through." "This is what makes you who you are!” In 2009 he later found his place in "The Lane” which is a movement consisting of young artist that have the same ambitions and goals as Greg, which is to strive for something greater, such as greatness and excellence. Where will Greg end up on this road to success? It's up to him, but from what Greg P. "The Voice" has stated, "The Top". In the words of "The Lane", Keep up or get flown by!

N.A.B: For those who do not know, who is Greg P and what separates you from the other artist?

Greg P: I believe what separates me from other or most artists, is them being who they really aren’t. A lot of times artist say they live or do certain things when in all reality they don’t. Music is not a joke; a lot of people listen to music for motivation, a sense of security and many of these related traits. Therefore when you paint them a pretty picture and it doesn’t turn out to be that, you then are considered fake.

N.A.B: Now your latest showcase with the Elegant Hoodness Musical Program R&B/Reggae event at club insomnia you won 1st place, how did that feel and what has come about since then?

Greg P: It definitely felt great. When you’re competing at Elegant Hoodness and you take that number one spot for the night, it’s an overall accomplishment. At Elegant Hoodness you’re competing amongst a lot of talented artist.

N.A.B: Compared to the many showcases’ you have done before, how would you say the Elegant Hoodness showcase compares to the others you have done? Would you refer other fellow artist to participate in future events with Elegant Hoodness?

Greg P: The Elegant Hoodness showcase actually shows an artist there growth from when they started competing and where they need to be once they grow into the artist they want to be. Yes I would refer any artists in need of a buzz and media to participate at the Elegant Hoodness.

N.A.B: What projects are you working on currently? What are your goals as an artist and how do you see yourself obtaining those goals?

Greg P: I’m currently working on my newest mix tape, I need to find another name for r&b project’s besides mix tapes. lol! It’s called “Take a Good Look” volume 1. The name is pretty self-explanatory. My goals as an artist is to grow and help other’s that want to get ahead in music grow as well. I think coming from a city where everyone wants’ the same thing as far as music goes, and that’s to make it as an artist we need to support each other before we want other’s to support our dreams and expectations. And that’s something that has held us back as a whole. I see myself obtaining these goals by staying focused, hungry determined and keeping the right people in my corner.

N.A.B: Who would you say inspires your music and what motivates you to keep striving to be the best artist you can be?

Greg P: Who pretty much inspires my music are the people around me that look to me for guidance and look for me to make things happen for myself.

N.A.B: What inspires the writing process of your music and do you write your own lyrics?

Greg P: What inspires my writing process is everything I go through in my life. Yes I right my own lyrics.

N.A.B: What artist have you worked with and what artist do you want to collab with here in the near future?

Greg P: I’ve worked with my mentor Real Right, Sean flight, Song list, Cann Cann and the list goes on. To answer your question, I don’t really have a set artist to work with. I’m willing to collab with pretty much anyone that wants’ to make and can produce good music.

N.A.B: Just want to say congrats on your success and wish you more to come. Do you have any shout outs? Where and how can fans & supporters connect with you and your music?

Greg P: Thank you, much appreciated and I would like to shout out A.D. The General, Team N.A.N., N.A.B. and The whole Elegant Hoodness movement. Most importantly my whole team the lane: REAL RIGHT,CANN-CANN,SONGLIST,KEV-LIVE Also my fans and supporter’s. They can all check me out at gregpthevoice@facebook.com/ gregpthevoice@reverbnation.com / gregpthevoice@myspace.com also. Thank you for the opportunity to be here. laneeeeeeeeeeeeee!

WRITTEN BY: G STEAM 843
COURTESY OF THE ELEGANT HOODNESS MUSICAL PROGRAM 2011

E.H.M.P.: Congrats on your win at the Elegant Hoodness Musical Program Sept 21. How did you feel about your performance and your 1st impression of The Elegant Hoodness?

CHAD PIFF: It’s was pretty cool. Very underground hip hop, I like that!

E.H.M.P.: How long have you been playing the guitar? And what inspired you to fuse hip hop with live instruments?

CHAD PIFF: I started playing the guitar about 4yrs ago, and also play a few other instruments like keys, drums, bass and mpc. One day I woke up and said to myself that hip hop needs a change. Had I dream about “LIVE” sounding Hip Hop (a light Bulb went offfff at this moment).

E.H.M.P.: What is your writing process like? Do you write to a beat? Or do you come up with a riff on the guitar 1st?

CHAD PIFF: I pretty much sit there with my glass of wine and brain storm I don’t write much (It’s very rare if u see me writing at the studio). Most of the Time I compose the beats but i have no Problem working with new producers. Ohhh and Guitar is usually done last.

E.H.M.P.: How do you describe your style?

CHAD PIFF: Different, Rock and Roll meets Dub step Hip hop, Jimi Hendrix with a Mix of Lil Wayne with drum beats like Kayne "Modern Day Hippie".

E.H.M.P.: Where can we listen and or download your music?

CHAD PIFF: www.chadpiff.blogspot.com/, Datt Piff , Sound Cloud All that good stuff

E.H.M.P.: Can you give any advice to the future of hip hop?

CHAD PIFF: Yes, stay different be yourself at all times!!!!

E.H.M.P.: Where can we reach you?

CHAD PIFF: ChadPiffmusic@gmail.com Twitter @ChadPiff or Facebook Chad Piff or call me 201-677-CHAD

Written BY: A.D. The General
Courtesy of the Elegant Hoodness Musical Program 2011

Is The ‘Anticipation’ Worthwhile?

2011-11-10T08:29:00.000-08:00

Oliver Goldsmith once said that, “A great source of calamity lies in regret and anticipation; therefore a person is wise who thinks of the present alone, regardless of the past or future.”

If this were spoken of anything other than R & B crooner Trey Songz’s latest mixtape Anticipation II I would be forced to agree. But after listening to his latest effort I am inclined to believe that whatever the future holds in regards to what Songz has for us, I’ll be right there anticipating its coming. In a time in music where the mixtape has undergone something of a resurrection Songz adds his voice to the mass of sound that we’ve been hearing more of as of late. To be fair Anticipation II offers a lot of the raunchy sort of musical fare that his last few albums have been so heavily laced with. But on the same token this mixtape plays as if it were a full length album, a feat not afforded to every between album effort. What appealed to me here was the references to pop culture and how well the tracks seem to complement each other. One track, called “Me 4 U Infidelity 2”, ends with a sound clip from the popular HBO show Boardwalk Empire, a conversation in such perfect context that it couldn’t be by chance or mere accident. Tracks such as “Don’t Judge” and “French Kiss” offer that level of content that the female constituency tends to flock towards when Trey Songz and his music are the topic of discussion. “When We Make Love”, a personal favorite, evokes that subtle intimacy that you’d expect from a good slow jam. The final song “Top Of The World” has an uplifting feel to it that I dare you not to be swept up in. Despite the overt sexuality offered this is a good listen. It is for this reason that I plan to disregard Goldsmith’s words and ‘anticipate’ what next from Trey Songz.

-L. Powell

Out the Box (Fall Back Issue) October

2011-10-17T07:16:00.000-07:00

Royalty Magazine reaches "Outside the Box". Check out these talented artists from various genres!

The Story:

The first public appearance of the band under the name "No Evidence" took place on 4th October, 2009 at the Tribute to Scorpions Festival. This date could be considered as the oficial band's date of birth.

However, the most amount of songs that further were included to the 1st album were written long before - in 1999. At that time a band with a strange name Tearful Juice was founded by the guitarist Dima Petrov and drummer Serge Zarudny. It was funny, but Serge impressed Dima 1st of all as a singer, but not a drummer)). - "Oh, as I can see you like David Coverdale too!", asked Dima once when Serge was experimenting with a microphone. The answer was "Who is that?"

Beginning:

The guys wrote some songs and began to play live concerts together with other musicians (Mike Kolesnik, the current No Evidence's guitar player, was among them for some time). Unfortunately, they stopped their activity in couple of years and decided to develop their careers in separate ways not connected with the music.

But the love of rock music was so strong and life without it was so poor that some time after Dima and Serge began to look around to recommence the music career. And in 2006 it was happened - it was the TJ's reunion with Dima, Serge and Mike. The guys engaged Serge's childhood friend Max Shahura (bass) and Fedor Popov (drums).

Starting from 2008 the band (No Evidence) consists of the following members:

Dima Petrov

Serge Zarudny

Mike Kolesnik

Max Shahura

Dima "Vincent" Vinnikov

Now:

In May 2010 the band has supported Swiss hard rockers Gotthard at their Moscow show. It should be noted, that Gotthard musicians had listened to No Evidence music by themselves to approve the band to enter the show.

In August 2010 No Evidence became a participant of rock festival "Rock Wave 2010" at the coast of the Black Sea (Crimea, Ukraine). There the band has played on the same stage with the well-known Russian and Ukranian rockers — Slot, Mavrin, Tracktor Bowling, Role Model, etc.
Currently, the band is working at the studio on the material for the 2nd album that is expected to be even more powerful, energetic and diverse. One of the reasons is that the band members Mike Kolesnik and Max Shashura and a soundengineer Dan Krasnikov will appear as the authors of some new songs.

For No Evidence click here...

Silvina
Singer/Songwriter/Latin

Silvina is a Latin/Spanish, singer songwriter, whose main past influence has been her Spanish Rock band background.Her musical sound is an electronic/acoustic blend of a variety of instruments, resulting in a very rich, authentic fusion of many different elements.

Her intellectual lyrics and melodic sound are musically surprising and gritty, light though profund, capable of stirring people's souls into action.

Her lyrics are empowering, compelling, and non comformist; her topics range from social issues, to love gone wrong, to deep personal ones.

Her story is that one of an immigrant coming to the USA at a young age. Her battles had been those of survival, personal self discovery, failure and glory. Never forgetting her Argentinian roots, she sets off on a musical journey that speaks of her life-long vision : expressing her soul's desires through music.Click Here for Silvina's facebook page.

Below the Radar (Fall Back Issue) October

2011-10-16T08:07:00.000-07:00

CHAD PIFF has an original and refreshing approach to his style of Hip Hop, with an electric guitar at hand and his drummer at his back. They proceed to rock the audience at the Elegant Hoodness artist’s competition. With such breeze and pizzazz Chad Piff breaks down the meaning to his name. He say’s I’m Chad Piff, Chad like the country and Piff well you know like Piff! Chad was awarded the Team N.A.N. people’s choice for his energy on stage and originality. Take a quick read and make sure to tell folk where you heard it first!!!!

E.H.M.P.: Congrats on your win at the Elegant Hoodness Musical Program Sept 21. How did you feel about your performance and your 1st impression of The Elegant Hoodness?

CHAD PIFF: It was pretty cool. Very underground hip hop, I like that!

E.H.M.P.: How long have you been playing the guitar? And what inspired you to fuse hip hop with live instruments?

CHAD PIFF: I started playing the guitar about 4yrs ago, and also play a few other instruments like keys, drums, bass and mpc. One day I woke up and said to myself that hip hop needs a change. Had I dream about “LIVE” sounding Hip Hop (a light Bulb went offfff at this moment).

E.H.M.P.: What is your writing process like? Do you write to a beat? Or do you come up with a riff on the guitar 1st?

CHAD PIFF: I pretty much sit there with my glass of wine and brain storm I don’t write much (It’s very rare if u see me writing at the studio). Most of the Time I compose the beats but i have no Problem working with new producers. Ohhh and Guitar is usually done last.

E.H.M.P.: How do you describe your style?

CHAD PIFF: Different, Rock and Roll meets Dub step Hip hop, Jimi Hendrix with a Mix of Lil Wayne with drum beats like Kayne "Modern Day Hippie".

E.H.M.P.: Where can we listen and or download your music?

CHAD PIFF: www.chadpiff.blogspot.com/ , Datt Piff , Sound Cloud All that good stuff.

E.H.M.P.: Can you give any advice to the future of hip hop?

CHAD PIFF: Yes, stay different be yourself at all times!!!!

E.H.M.P.: Where can we reach you?

CHAD PIFF: ChadPiffmusic@gmail.com Twitter @ChadPiff or Facebook Chad Piff or call me 201-677-CHAD

Written BY: A.D. The General
Courtesy of the Elegant Hoodness Musical Program 2011

Buzz Factor (Fall Back Issue) October

2011-10-11T14:45:00.000-07:00

ARSINEY

Arsiney is an awesome name for this very multi talented artist. Arsiney already nominated twice for an Under Ground Music Award, 2 years in a row. Arsiney joins hundreds of talented artists across the globe for his recent nomination at The Top Ten Artists of The Year Awards 2011. Arsiney is an all around artists. Not only does it produce if own records but also sings on his hooks and delivers pure energy in his stage performance. We always like to keep our reader on there toes and remember you put you on first to the hottest, fastest growing artists through out the globe. Get to know Arsiney.

E.H.M.P: Congrats on your recent nomination at The Elegant Hoodness Musical Program for the Top Ten Artists of the year Award 2011. Do you have any predictions and how does it feel to be nominated?

ARSINEY: Thank you, of course I’d like to win but it feels GREAT to just be nominated. Over this summer I was nominated for my second U.M.A Award (Underground Music Award) and I just put out my NEW mix tape the nomination which was so fitting not only for the moment, me being nominated and all, but also just for what being nominated for anything represents, which is RECOGNITION for what ever it is you are doing. So to be recognized in another award is great, keeps me motivated.

E.H.M.P: You write, produce and sing your own hooks. Your stage performance is superb. What do you think you lack?

ARSINEY: Thanks, yea I give it 100 percent every time I hit the stage. I’m just an artist so what ever way I decide to express my self, whether its rapping, singing, producing, directing, whatever it is I strive to be the best at it, so I don't think I lack anything talent wise because I push my self. If anything I lack the recognition for what I do, but I believe the harder I work ill get where I need to be.

E.H.M.P: If you had a choice between a label that gave you creative control or a label that give you 10 million and no creative control, with would you chose?

ARSINEY: Creative control because being able to make what I want to make is going to bring me longevity and money anyway.

E.H.M.P: Which do you love more? Producing? Or being an artists and why?

ARSINEY: I think producing is all a part of my artistry so I would say being an artist because it incorporates all me gifts and I love them all equally.

E.H.M.P: Where do you think Hip Hop is currently?

ARSINEY: I think it’s in an opportunity phase. It feel’s kind of like it’s back to the roots as far as the business goes, back when labels wasn't signing Hip Hop artist and people were just making the music that they want to make because the money didn't matter. We are in a stage were albums are not selling the way they used to because the internet has made music so accessible people don't feel the need to buy it, which is a problem. But what that did was leveled the playing field so now an up and coming artist has the opportunity to be a star and compete with a major artist, so that’s good. And it forced people to get back to making creative music, and I think we are starting to see more of that creativity in not just hip hop but music abroad.

E.H.M.P: If you could have 5 artists on your all star team who would they be?

ARSINEY: Kris Kasanova, Kanye West, Adelle, The Weekend, Kendrick Lamar.
E.H.M.P: Where can our readers reach you and listen and or download your music?

ARSINEY: You can reach me at my twitter.com/arsiney facebook.com/arsineymusic youtube.com/arsineybeats and my email

E.H.M.P: Any last words? Or Shout Out’s?arsineymusic@gmail you can download my music on my website arsiney.com or at arsiney.bandcamp.com or aborted blogs and mix tape sites just google my name ARSINEY.

ARSINEY: Just shout out to my whole ICM family, anybody that works closely with me and all the fans you guys are FAM, you are all a part of TeamARS for life. Shout out to E.H.M.P and a special shout out to YOU the reader.

Written by A.D. The General
Courtesy of The Elegant Hoodness Musical Program 2011

The Showcase (Fall Back Issue 2011) October

2011-10-10T09:06:00.000-07:00

And the Light is Currently Shining on...

Amo 1 - BIOGRAPHY

Hiphop

COMING STRAIGHT OUT OF BKLYN, AMO1 EMBODIES WHAT A TRUE "BROOKLYNITE" REALLY IS...FROM HIS STYLE, TO HIS SLANG, TO HIS RAW NO HOLDS BARRRED ATTITUDE & LYRICS, AMO1 TAKES YOU BACK TO THAT GOLDEN ERA OF HIP HOP ..WHEN YOU WERE JUDGED ON YOUR LYRICS AND NOT YOUR BANK ACCOUNT....HE DEFINATELY PRIDES HIMSELF ON STAYING TRUE TO THOSE ROOTS OF HIP HOP CULTURE.

WITH A GROUP ALBUM RELEASED SET IN 08' AND A SOLO ALBUM IN 09' AMO1 HAS NOTHING BUT STREET BANGERS TO BRAND HIS NAME IN THE GAME WITH ...."2005MH" THE *D.E. ALBUM CONTINUATION TO THE DARK EMPIRE E.P; AMO & HS 5MH CREW COME WITH A SOUND THAT IS BEST DESCRIBED AS STRAIGHT "HOOD"!!..
WITH JOINTS LIKE "BOTTOM TO THE TOP","BOUND BY BLOOD" TO THE COLLABO WITH HIS4 CREWMATES ENTITLED "7MC'S", AMO1 NOT ONLY PUT A GREAT GROUP ALBUM TOGETHER,EXECUTIVE PRODUCING & WRITING ALMOST THE ENTIRE THING, BUT HIS SOLO ALBUM ENTITLED "FOOD4THOUGHT" REALLY ALLOWS HIM SHINE AS A HIP HOP ARTIST.

WITH TRACKS LIKE "IT'S BROOKLYN" WHICH SHOUTS OUT ALL OF THE LIVEST NEIGHBORHOODS IN THE BOROUGH...THE TITLE TRACK "FOOD4THOUGHT" WHERE HE EDUCATES YOU WITH HIS TRUE STREET LESSONS, TO HIS SINGLES "WHAT THE WORLD NEEDZ" & "FINESSE". HIS MATERIAL PARLAYS HIS LIFE EXPERIENCES GROWING UP ON THE STREETS OF NEW YORK CITY.

BEING NOTICED AS ONE OF THE HOTTEST UP AND COMING UNDERGROUND ARTISTS. ON ANY GIVING NIGHT YOU CAN CATCH AMO1 ROCKIN MICS THRU OUT NYC.....SO KEEP AN EAR TO THE STREETS AND AN EYE TO THE STAGE CAUSE ONCE YOU HEAR OR SEE AMO LIVE ON STAGE OR YOU HEAR HIM BUMPIN THRU THE SPEAKERS, YOU WONT FORGET HIM'.

AMO 1 is still shining...

Royalty Magazine also got a chance to interview AMO 1. Here is how the interview went down...

Royalty Magazine: Tell us about Amo 1...where are you from and what is the concept behind the name?

Amo 1: I am a street kid born and raised in the borough of Brooklyn. The name was originated as a playground name on the basketball court (the term of shooting your lights out is where the nickname Amo originated). The 1 was added once Amo turned into my graffiti name(you add the 1 to let the streets know you were the original).

Royalty Magazine: How did you get started in hiphop? Tell us about that first experience when you picked up a mic?

Amo 1: I've been apart of hip hop for as long as I could remember. My parents were constantly spinning vinyl in the crib & by the early 8o's most of the music that they were playing was hip hop and breakbeats. So by the age of 7-8, I was influenced by the older kids on the block who were already break dancing rapping and writing graffiti. Once I started, I never looked back.

Royalty Magazine: Do you remember what your first song was about? If so, tell us what it was about?

Amo 1: My 1st song was titled "Slaughter" that I wrote with my former partner. It had a K-solo sample spelling out "Slaughter" with a Das Efx sample tied to it. It was like some hardcore gravediggers shit. Before that I was just writing verses and battle raps.

Royalty Magazine: How have you grown as an artist from when you first started until now? What are some lessons that you have learned from being in this game?

Amo 1: I am constantly growing as an artist, whether its developing new word play, new marketing strategies or just getting more involved in the production aspect of the music. Thru the years I definitely learned that people are out for themselves in this business and their interest in you is really a reflection of what you can do for them.

Royalty Magazine: Being from New York where the competition is so fierce...how do you stay consistant? What makes you stand out as an artist?

Amo 1: The fact that I was brought up in the old New york. See back in the 90's, you had to be fresh from head to toe...whether it was your lyrics, your gear or the crew you ran with because only the Freshest Survived. These motherfuckers nowadays just keep biting off each others concepts, lyrics and styles, but they just can't seem to get it right cause there's no originality. n order to Standout, you got to be 1 of the freshest in the room (which I always am).

Royalty Magazine: What do you want the world to know about Amo 1? Describe yourself in 5 words or less...

Amo 1: I'm a Hip-Hop Rebel.

Royalty Magazine: If you could work with any 3 artists (underground or mainstream) who would they be and why?

Amo 1: First off I would definitely work with Krs-1. Being 1 of the pioneers in the game, he still remains relevant to the times and is untouchable on the microphone. It would be an instant underground classic. 2nd I'd have to say the Rza. Not only cause his music is and will continue to be legendary, but his wisdom of life and its surrounding elements is inspiring to me on a personal level. And 3rd I would have to say Snoop Dogg. He's the 1 artist who is a True G with it and tells it like it is (whether you like it or not). I'd also love to twist up some of that Grand Daddy kush with him as well as his camp and get in the studio to make some hits.

Royalty Magazine: What are some projects that you have previously released and/or what are some upcoming ones to look out for? Any upcoming shows?

Amo 1: I released an EP and an album under the group name D.E.(Deadly Entities) thru my record label Team5iveInc. with my former partner Felony. Due to a falling out I pursued a solo career with a debut album "Food for Thought" that I put out in the street(which might be re-released with distrubution in 2012). I'm also working on a sophomore project "Brain Medicine" as well as an Ep that will be solely produced by "The Skilled Genius". Other than that you can catch me on a few mixtapes with Coast to Coast Mixtapes and a few others floating around NYC, plus a feature on the Sleepwalkas album "Cookie Cutter Cornballs Can't Cut It!"

As far as the shows...well you can catch me every week rocking the mic somewhere in New York City.

Royalty Magazine: Any last comments/shot outs?

Amo 1: I def wanna shout Royalty Magazine out for staying connected to the Underground...My 5mH crew for keeping me inspired, all the Dj's that spin my music , all the Artists that I've had the pleasure of sharing the stage with throughout the years and the fans who continue to buy & support my music!

Royalty Magazine: What is your twitter or website info? How can people keep up with you?

Amo 1: You can follow me on twitter @amo1_5mh, you can catch me on Facebook under Amo1 or you can just google Amo1 5mH on any search engine to get my reverbnation, soundcloud or youtube accounts.

FOR MORE ON AMO 1, PLEASE CLICK HERE...

Courtesy of TazDatMC for Royalty Magazine

For our Front & Back Cover as well as other features please click here...

Town Bizness (Fall Back Issue 2011)

2011-09-10T12:10:00.000-07:00

Highlighting Talented Artists From the Great NorthWest!

What does the town have brewing at the moment? Peep Game:

NW Spotlight "Archie Bellz"

Archie Bellz - BIOGRAPHY

Hiphop/Rap

Royalty Magazine: Archie Bellz whuts good? How has your summer been going?

Archie Bellz: The summer was great I did alot of shows and my support is crazy right now.

Royalty Magazine: That's wassup! Tell us the concept behind the name and what prompted the change from Knowledge to Archie?

Archie Bellz: Knowledge is still my name but I just wanted to have a new fresh start with my music, so like a new beginning so to speak.

Royalty Magazine: I can dig it! Being from the town (Seattle), who would you say are some local artists to look out for and why?

Archie Bellz: Well I would say, there talented and they got what it takes:

Juga hill
Jesse James
Fly Boy Jody

Royalty Magazine: Okay, now what makes you stand out as an Artist? What are some skills you bring to the table?

Archie Bellz: I'm different!!! My random bars, my energy and my charm. I like being me! Official baby!

Royalty Magazine: That's what it's all about. I like being me too lol. Over the years, Seattle has had its own lil divisions within its own community (such as people claiming the CD or the Southend, Franklin vs Garfield, Seattle or Tacoma)...In your opinion, what would it take to bring us together as a unit or a movement?

Archie Bellz: Bring us together??? Good fuckin question I must say. Only way this is goin' to happen is if somebody gets known (signed) and gives back. Until then it's just goin' to be a million of us racing for the spot! Gettin No where...

Royalty Magazine: Real talk. I like how you put that. Nonetheless, there is also a lot of undiscovered talent out here, why do you think we are so slept on?

Archie Bellz: Somebody gotta have some ballz (like myself) and push the hell outta the music . No holds bars, Seattle is sooo known, we just need a chance (which is coming soon)! I feel it...

Royalty Magazine: Yeah I know what you mean. I feel like it's only a matter of time. We will get our time to shine one way or another. If you could do a collab with your top 3 mainstream artists, who would they be and why?

Archie Bellz: Nas kuz he's one of the first; LL cool J - Need I say more?; Snoop Dogg feat Archie Bellz (One day)...

Royalty Magazine: That's wassup! What are some projects that you are currently working on and/or released?

Archie Bellz: My new Hustle E.N.T vol 2 hosted by Sean Malik and Hello I'm Archie Bellz hosted by Dj Pegg!

Royalty Magazine: Sounds good...make sure you slide me some music for my radio show!;) What are a few of your must peep tracks at the moment?

Archie Bellz: Hottest song right now is JOOSED and... Dam!!! I am sooo filthy!

Royalty Magazine: Yeah I heard that I am sooo filthy track, you went off on that lol. Besides music, what are some of your other talents or hobbies?

Archie Bellz: Really all I do is music music music!!! Maybe hustlin and then more music!

Royalty Magazine: I can dig it! What is your website info? How can people keep up with you?

Archie Bellz: Facebook.com/archiebellzmusic Or Reverbnation.com/archiebellz

Royalty Magazine: What do you want the world to know about Archie Bellz? If you could describe yourself in 5 words or less, what would you say?

Archie Bellz: Handsome & Filthy!!!

Royalty Magazine: I can dig it lol. Any last comments/shot outs?

Archie Bellz: Thank you & taz dat mc need to have my baby, lol

Royalty Magazine: Well I guess we better start practicing lol. Thanks for your time fam! I appreciate it...keep grinding!

Courtesy of TazDatMC for Royalty Magazine

Who else is shining in the town?

Happz

Hiphop/Rap

With the influence of Wu Tang Clan, Tupac, Yukmouth, Joe Budden, Pete Rock & CL Smooth, 717 Click, Swift, T.I., Twista, Bone, Tech N9ne, Souls of Mischief, and many others as well as coming from an area never before seen or heard from on any level (other than basketball)...Happz intends to set his mark on the music industry.

For more on Happz and/or to check out his music, please visit www.Reverbnation.com/Happz

Also check out this video from Your Dad/Left Coast Dougie...

Another Artist out the 206...Seattle Stand up!

Upcoming Events:

If you are an Artist from the NW and you want to get featured/have an event...please holla at www.twitter.com/royaltymagazine and ask about our "Town Bizness" specials...