News: Killer Mike Blasts Grammys Over Rick Ross "Album Of The Year" Snub, "All This Sh*t Is Rigged Up"
Thursday, Jan 28, 2010 6:00PM
Written by Cyrus Langhorne
Southern rapper Killer Mike has vouched for Rick Ross and called out the Grammy Awards committee for not nominating Deeper Than Rap for album of the year consideration.
According to Mike, Young Jeezy should have received recognition for his efforts throughout 2009.
"If [Ross'] album doesn't get nominated for rap album of the year or album of the year, all this sh*t is rigged up," he said. "Rick Ross should be heralded this year for the quality of music he's put out, no lie. I think Jeezy deserves a Grammy, but he's never received it," Mike said. "I'll watch the Grammy's when Jeezy gets his...He never got nominated." (XXL Mag)
R&B singer The-Dream recently resorted to ranting via Twitter about Love vs Money being snubbed for an album nomination.
"I had to let my people know," he said on Friday (December 11) of his tweets. "I had to let 'em know it wasn't all to the good. I wasn't just chillin'. The people that follow me, they really care about the movement. Not just me, there's a lot of great people doing great things all the time and they get looked over. That's why I put the thing about Kanye [West]. I'm not on no Kanye, but when you bust your a** and you know you bust your a** and you don't get a look, then you're looking at people funny." (MTV)
Last month, Fabolous shared his reaction to receiving one of his first Grammy nominations.
"I think, I'm not a 100 percent sure," Fab said about his Grammy nomination. "If I did get nominated before, I didn't win. This might be my first, I'm not sure. I was waking up this morning leaving Atlanta [when I found out]. I got the news and people were congratulating me before I knew. I was like, 'Oh wow, okay.' Somebody had hit me yesterday like, 'Yo, you didn't get nominated for a Grammy,' like they were pissed off. And I was like, 'Yo it's okay. It's motivation for me to work harder next year.' And then I woke up and I did have a nomination so it's really how it worked out." (Jenny Boom Boom TV)
Nominated for "Best Rap Album of the Year," Q-Tip vowed to keep making great music.
"THANK U ALL FOR THE CONGRATULATORY GESTURES!!!," Tip wrote Thursday (December 3) via Twitter. "thank you all for the salute for the grammy nod! its all good yall with the grammies but i just wanna keep this music crazy 4 yall.. thats my focus." (Q-Tip's Twitter)
Winners in all categories of the 52nd annual event will be announced at a televised awards ceremony on Jan 31.
From SOHH.com
http://www.sohh.com/2010/01/killer_mike_blasts_grammys_over_rick_ros.html
News: Baby On Riding Shotgun W/ Rick Ross, "He Can Rap His A** Off"
Thursday, Jan 28, 2010 11:05AM
Written by Cyrus Langhorne
Cash Money Records co-founder Baby recently spoke on working with Rick Ross on an upcoming collabo album, The H, and explained why his "partner" is a certified hitmaker.
Birdman also discussed his decision to move Cash Money Records to Ross' Miami, Florida hometown.
"We are still making it happen," the Cash Money mogul said of the impending release with the self-proclaimed Boss tentatively entitled The H--which is due out early this year. "Ross is my partner. He's already great to me. He's got the mind and the talent to do what he wants as far as rap goes. He can rap his ass off. He's going to constantly make hits. The town has bust open. I've learned a lot being in Miami. It's different from where we come from. I felt like we had to leave New Orleans in order to grow. My city is small; the state of Louisiana is small. I'm from there and I love it. I'm 504 'til I go. I still have a house there and I still go there. But at some point you have to grow." (VIBE)
Rap mogul Diddy also recently co-signed "The Boss" and likened him to the late Notorious B.I.G.
"Oh y'all ain't hear the second verse," Diddy said about Ross' 'Angels' collaboration. "Yo, y'all gonna peep that when we world premiere that. I don't know, I guess him and Biggie locked up in the room, even my man Hen Roc even said that. For my man Hen Roc to say that and co-sign it like 'Yo, my man right there sounding like our homie.' That right there is something special. That's a mean co-sign, that's a mean co-sign. I don't know what was going on in the studio, the spirits were connecting but it's official. It ain't bootleg, it ain't got no preservatives in it." (Spliff TV)
The rapper later offered his reaction to Diddy's statements.
"Yeah, that's big," Ross told DJ Envy referring to the co-sign. "That's most definitely big, but I want New York City, I'll never get it twisted, the magic that Notorious B.I.G. created could never be duplicated. That most definitely was my mentor, that's who music I wrote to the most. Hearing that come from Diddy himself is big and it's inspiration to keep making hot music." (Power 105.1)
Ross recently spoke with SOHH about predicting he would make the best records for 2010.
"Honestly, n*ggas can talk sh*t but it's hard to really make predictions other than lord willing we'll be still here, you know what I"m saying," Ross told SOHH. "N*ggas here, free, alive, other than that, we just gonna make the best music we gonna make. And I feel it's gonna compete with the best music that's being made right now." (SOHH)
From SOHH.com
http://www.sohh.com/2010/01/baby_on_riding_shotgun_w_rick_ross_he_ca.html
News: Game Threatens LA Radio, "If I Hear ['Empire State Of Mind'] 1 More Time, I'm Startin A Full Fledge Protest"
Thursday, Jan 28, 2010 5:55PM
Written by Cyrus Langhorne
West Coast rapper Game has publicly questioned why Jay-Z's New York anthem "Empire State of Mind" is in heavy rotation on Los Angeles radio.
From Game's perspective, Hov's hit gets more radio play outside of New York.
"How come Power 106 plays 'Empire State Of Mind' more than New York ?," Game asked via Twitter. "If I hear it 1 more time b4 I get home, I'm startin a full fledge protest (picket signs) & Im gettin dem women dat R against abortion 2 help They go HARD !!! & when I was in NEW YORK, aint hear "Empire State Of Mind" once... they only played ATL sh!t......... #whatsgoinon ?" (Game's Twitter)
New York Hot 97 radio personality DJ Enuff recently contemplated playing rapper Jay Electronica's "Exhibit C" during his on-air shifts.
"I'm listening to Jay Electronica's latest tune Exhibit C Produced by Just Blaze," he wrote Sunday (December 27). "It is so good. I think it's lyrical and the production is solid. Reminds me of some early Nas stuff,Then I ask my self : Why is it not spinning on the radio? At least during my time slot? Is it because there's no dance tied to it? Is it because it's not yet on BET's Top Ten Countdown? Does it have to be a Club Banger? The radio isn't a club. So why not Good solid Hip Hop? I have it on my website. I battle myself all the time when it comes to the radio. The job I love so much. I could make it the Heavy Hitter Pick of the week with no problem. Then what? I need HELP with this one. Any Suggestions Re: Real Hip Hop is Fading." (Thats Enuff)
New York's DJ Kay Slay recently accused record labels of gearing more toward Southern artists.
"Papoose would do better on an independent right now because majors are really geared towards Southern artists or high profile artists that's been known for selling records. They don't wanna gamble too much with no new artists." (XXL Mag)
Rapper Saigon has also pointed out differences between Southern artists and his fellow New York emcees.
"All of us got caught up in the emergence of the South movement," Sai said about the delay of New York rap newcomers. "All of us came on the scene when the South was really makin' their move to take over. The record companies was like 'F*ck the New York n*ggas, the South sh*t is where it's at.'...All labels look at are radio spins really. If you can get a record up to 400, 500 spins on your own, they gonna come give you a record deal right away. They don't even have to listen to the song, they just need to see how many spins you got." (Q The Question)
From SOHH.com
http://www.sohh.com/2010/01/game_calls_out_nyc_radio_i_aint_hear_emp.html
AHH Stray News: Nelly Vs. Bow Wow For $100k, Rev Run Does Wedding, Fabolous
Thursday, January 28, 2010 9:10 PM
By Ace Cannon
(AllHipHop News) Rappers Nelly and Bow Wow will host their own celebrity basketball game this weekend in Chicago to foster peace and unite in the community. The pair will be on hand with various representatives of Nelly Derrty Ent as well as reps for the Cash Money Millionaires. Nelly’s team will play Bow Wow’s and the losing team will have to donate $100,000 to a charity. The event, which takes place January 31 at the UIC Pavilion on January 31, will also feature Nelly and Bow Wow speaking the students and children during halftime about the importance of education.
Reverend Run of Run-DMC is offering a fan the chance to be married on Valentine’s Day as part of the “Ultimate Rock-N-Roll Wedding.” The Borgata Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City is offering couples to share their love stories, with the grand prize being a wedding officiated by Reverend Run. The winner will receive the “once in a lifetime wedding” on February 14 at the Borgata’s Gypsy Bar. Additionally, the couple will receive “rock star” treatment at The Borgata, a custom cake designed Executive Chef Thaddeus Dubois and an post-celebration at MIXX nightclub for the official Kid Rock concert after party, where Rev Run and DJ Ruckus will perform.
Fabolous will join a number of rappers this weekend as part of Nike’s “Lace Up, Save Lives Concert.” The concert will features performances by Fabolous, Pac Div, Asher Roth, All American Rejects and others. Nike’s “Lace Up, Saves Lives” raises millions by selling specialized (NIKE)RED laces. The proceeds are donated to The Global Fund, which helps fight AIDS in Africa. The concert takes place at The Montalban Theater in Los Angeles from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Admission is $4 with a high school ID.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/28/22110858.aspx
Russell Simmons Announces International Hip-Hop Summits
Thursday, January 28, 2010 4:00 PM
By Nolan Strong
(AllHipHop News) Hip-Hop Summit Action Network (HSAN) Founder Russell Simmons and CEO Dr. Benjamin Chavis have partnered with several organizations to create the Music 4 Peace Initiative and Tour.
HSAN will team with the Music4Peace Foundation, Tribes of the Worlds, SwaggMedia and The Gandhi Tour to promote a global message of peace, using music, artists and global resources.
Under the new partnership, Simmons and Chavis will launch an international extension of their Hip-Hop Summits, which have been active in every major city since it’s inception in 2001.
A Hip-Hop Summit will take place in South Africa in conjunction with the World Cup and FIFA this June, while another Summit is being planned for India in November.
Additionally, HSAN will support The Gandhi Tour’s International day of Peace in Brazil.
“Hip-Hop music artists are leaders in the youth movement,” Russell Simmons told AllHipHop.com in a statement. “We’re excited about the potential these diverse organizations have in coming together to harness music as a transformative and unifying power to promote peace throughout the world.”
Music4Peace has also announced a contest to raise funds for HSAN and Haiti with the Film 4 Peace contest.
One filmmaker will be awarded a trip for two to South Africa to attend The Hip Hop Summit’s inaugural concert and event during The World Cup this June.
For more information visit http://www.music4peacetour.com for more details.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/28/22110130.aspx
Freeway Ricky Ross Turns 50; Continues To Engage Youth
Thursday, January 28, 2010 3:02 PM
By Grouchy Greg Watkins
(AllHipHop News) Convicted drug lord “Freeway” Ricky Ross will celebrate his 50th birthday tomorrow (January 29th) and he has vowed to continue to educate youth about the perils of drugs and gang culture.
Ross served over 20-plus years in prison for running a massive crack-cocaine operation that was grossing almost $3 million dollars per week.
He was also catapulted to international infamy, when the San Jose Mercury Times exposed a link between Ross’ suppliers and the CIA, DEA, which lead to the Iran-Contra scandal.
Now, Ross spends his time reaching out to youngsters who might glorify the previous life he lead, which took two-decades from his life, in addition to acknowledging that his actions helped destroy his own community.
"We have to stress early the importance of leadership, finances, credit, entrepreneurship, and an improved vocabulary,” a reformed Freeway Ricky Ross told AllHipHop.com. “Becoming an active mentor is the first step to everything in this process."
Freeway Ricky Ross is currently traveling the country for speaking engagements with organizations like Unity One, Amer-I-Can, Hip Hop Detox and his own non-profit, The Freeway Foundation.
Ross, who was released from Texarkana Prison in early 2009, will celebrate his 50th birthday at Westside Stages in Los Angeles, California.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/28/22110113.aspx
Ludacris Hosts Sprite Step Off Docu-Series
Thursday, January 28, 2010 2:04 PM
By Chris Richburg
The nationwide Sprite Step Off competition will be the focus of a new docu-series hosted by rapper/actor Ludacris.
The six-part series, titled Sprite Step Off, will follow six step teams from fraternities and sororities across the country as they prepare for the regional rounds of the Sprite Step Off competition while learning steps and beats as well as juggling round-the-clock rehearsals and family, friends and school demands.
Each team will compete for a chance to win one of two $100,000 scholarships at the event’s national final. The Sprite Step Off is regarded as the largest national step team competition in history as it celebrates the creativity and originality of the multicultural college experience through stepping, scholarship and service.
The combined prize pool of the Sprite-sponsored event amounts to $1.5 million in scholarships. In addition to the competition, the Sprite Step Off competition promotes a national program called the Sprite Step Off Challenge, an effort designed to inspire youth nationwide to help their communities by donating a collective total of 1.5 million hours of volunteerism and service between September 12, 2009 and September 12, 2010.
For Ludacris, the chance to showcase teams in the Step Off as well as the merits of stepping provides a win-win situation for viewers and step enthusiasts.
"I love that MTV2 and Sprite are giving a Step competition national exposure and introducing this creative dance form to an audience outside of the urban college landscape," the entertainer said about the half-hour series, which was shot on location at college campuses around the country. "The teams competing on the show are not only dedicated but diverse and will take Step competitions to a new level."
Fraternities and sororities featured on Sprite Step-Off include Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.; Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.; Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.; Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.; Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; and Zeta Tau Alpha.
“We are thrilled to be partnering with Sprite to bring these student performances to television as part of our new original series lineup for MTV2 and to provide a platform for the rich and historic tradition of college stepping," added Chris McCarthy, senior vice president of Strategic Development and Digital TV Networks, MTV.
The Sprite Step Off docu-series featuring Ludacris will premiere Sunday (Jan. 31) on MTV2.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/28/22110102.aspx
DJ Irie and Miami Dolphins’ Jason Taylor Begin After-School DJ Program
Thursday, January 28, 2010 12:00 PM
By Ismael AbduSalaam
(AllHipHop News) Internationally acclaimed DJ Irie and Miami Dolphins All-Pro Jason Taylor begin a new after-school initiative for children interested in the discipline of deejaying tomorrow (January 29).
“Irie’s DJ Spiniversity” will be held at the Miramar Youth Enrichment Center in Miramar, FL.
Its location is strategic, with the goal bridging the student’s predilection for music and their educational skills needed to excel in school.
Irie’s debut seminar is set to include an exhibition, a DJ battle, and teaching Jason Taylor turntable skills.
In addition, students will be taught the history of the DJ, music theory, scratching, and mixing.
Even as a DJ that’s traveled the world and received much acclaim, Irie holds his new educational endeavor as one of his most important career ventures.
"The Irie DJ Spiniversity is one of the greatest achievements of my career,” Irie told AllHipHop.com. “Being a performing DJ has afforded me a wonderful & fulfilling life and to be able to spearhead an establishment for our youth to learn the art and the business is the absolute best. I expect to see some great talent come out of the Irie DJ Spiniversity."
The class is free every Friday for the remainder of the 2010 school year.
The subsequent classes will be taught by DJs from the Scratch DJ Academy of Miami, known as the first DJ school in the world.
The first class commences at 4PM tomorrow in the Miramar Youth Enrichment Center, located at 7000 Miramar Parkway, Miramar, FL 33023.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/28/22110100.aspx
Tracklisting For Kurupt's Down & Dirty'; Petey, Pac & More
Thursday, January 28, 2010 10:50 AM
By Mike Winslow
(AllHipHop News) Dogg Pounds fans will be treated to an album of all new material from group member Kurupt next month, when Down & Dirty hit’s the stores.
The album is being released by Death Row Records/ Wide Awake Entertainment, the company that bought the famed Gangsta rap label out of bankruptcy in January of 2009.
The new album features 16 “rare” recordings from Kurupt and includes guest appearances by 2 Pac, Petey Pablo, Kokane, Danny Boy, Young Tone, Val C. and others.
Down & Dirty will hit stores on February 9th.
The track listing is below:
1. Speak on it – ft. Val.C
2. Anarchy 87
3. Throw Back Muzic 86
4. Riot in the Club
5. Stalkin
6. Can you Feel it ft. Potion
7. Slide N Slide Out ft. East Wood/ Big Tri/ Young Tone
8. You Don’t know who you fu**in wit ft. KoKane
9. Jealousy ft. Roscoe/M.O.P
10. Tha Past ft. Dave Hollister
11. Bulls**t & Nonsense
12. Calico
13. Hustlin Ft. Big Tri & Young Tone
14. It’s a wrap
15. One things for sure ( Reprise)ft. Danny Boy
16. Put this money right there ft. Petey Pablo
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/28/22110087.aspx
Just Blaze Closes Down Baseline Studios
January 28, 2010 02:01:00 PM CST | by Allen Jacobs
In the legendary company of D&D, Can-Am, The Hit Factory, Quad Studios and Chung King, there has long been Baseline Studios in New York. The historic recording studio will be closing today. Baseline Studios, longtime home to Jay-Z and Roc-A-Fella Records will say goodbye to the public. Originally owned by Jay and O.G. Juan, the studio has spent the last years in the possession of one of its biggest hit-makers, Just Blaze.
From 4pm to 10pm today, the Midtown Manhattan studio will be open to artists, media and friends. Fans are welcome to take photos, video and see the place used by Jay-Z, Kanye West, Saigon and others.
No official word has been given on new ownership or the future for one of '00s Hip Hop's landmarks.
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10531/title.just-blaze-closes-down-baseline-studios
8Ball & MJG To Release New Album In April
January 28, 2010 12:01:00 PM CST | by Danielle Harling
Legendary southern Hip Hop duo 8Ball and MJG have recently announced that they will be releasing their latest album, Ten Toes Down, spring of this year.
“Ten Toes Down, in my opinion, is one of the best 8Ball & MJG albums ever,” said 8Ball. “It's a heart-felt, soul-filled, portion of the lives of 8Ball & MJG. 8Ball & MJG sounds and feels like 8Ball & MJG on this album [for] sho!"
The duo’s much anticipated twelfth album will feature a number of guest appearances from artists such as T.I., Snoop Dogg, David Banner, and Bun B.
“T.I. and I were thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Ball & Gee from the very beginning. We've both been fans, and this new album is classic Ball & Gee material & we're excited for the world to hear it,” Grand Hustle’s Jason Geter explained.
8Ball and MJG first emerged on the scene in the early 90’s with their album Comin’ Hard and over ten albums later they still remain icons in southern Hip Hop.
Ten Toes Down will be released on April 6, 2010 through Push Management/Grand Hustle/E1 Music.
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10529/title.8ball-mjg-to-release-new-album-in-april
Bishop Lamont Talks Life Beyond Aftermath
Wednesday, January 27, 2010 12:45 PM
By Mike Winslow
(AllHipHop News) Former Aftermath artist Bishop Lamont has revealed plans for his upcoming label Diocese Records, in addition to his future plans.
Bishop Lamont’s frustration with the constant delays of his own album, while he was signed to Dr. Dre’s Aftermath Records.
Additionally, he grew tired of seeing other West Coast artists like Jay Rock, Glasses Malone and Nipsey Hussle languish on the shelf.
According to Bishop Lamont, in addition to the 700 tracks of his own that he was allowed to take when he left Aftermath, his new label will house everything from rap to jazz, alternative rock, country and R&B.
"Artists would come to me when I was at Aftermath and I told them that their best bet was to avoid signing with a major,” Bishop Lamont told the Los Angeles Times. "They thought I was hating but the labels want to give you 360 degree deals and take all of your publishing and your merchandise and publishing. If an artist sells 40,000 copies on their own their rich. If they sell 40,000 on a major, they get dropped.”
Bishop Lamont has a number of projects on the horizon including his album The Reformation, as well as a mix tape titled The Shawshank Redemption with Bink and DJ Drama.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/27/22108790.aspx
Cassidy Preps 4th Album; Backed By NBA Star Carmelo Anthony
Wednesday, January 27, 2010 1:35 PM
By Morris Moore
(AllHipHop News) Philadelphia rapper Cassidy has revealed plans to release his first album since 2007’s release B.A.R.S. (The Barry Adrian Reese Story).
The new album is titled C.A.S.H., which stands for “Cass Always Stays Hard” or “Cass Always a Straight Hustler.”
Cassidy told MTV.com’s Mixtape Daily that the first single will feature a big name artist, but before that single drops, he will release a street record titled “Face to Face,” and a new mixtape titled Apply Pressure 2.
“They say it's a recession. I call my album C.A.S.H. because everybody needs money,” Cassidy told MTV’s Mixtape Daily. “I feel as though everybody that's a fan of hip-hop or a fan of music period, they need to come and support artists like me, because you gonna see hip-hop fall off the map, like other forms of music, if you don't.”
Although he's no longer signed to producer Swizz Beatz, Full Surface imprint, the pair still have a cordial relationship.
As the first artist signed to the label, Cassidy and Swizz produced hits and club anthems like “Hotel” featuring R.Kelly, “I’m a Hustla” and “My Drink N My Two Step” while dropping albums like Split Personality (2004), I’m a Hustla (2005) and his most recent, B.A.R.S. (2007).
Cassidy's C.A.S.H. album will be released through his own imprint Larsiny Entertainment, with distribution through E1.
In November of 2008, Cassidy inked a deal with NBA star Carmelo Anthony’s Krossover Entertainment, which is backing the Philly rapper’s latest album.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/27/22108815.aspx
Buju Banton's Lawyer Claim Govt. Snitch Used Entrapment
Wednesday, January 27, 2010 2:17 PM
By Mike Winslow
(AllHipHop News) Lawyers for controversial reggae star Buju Banton claim that the government set the Jamaican artist up, by using a paid informant.
According to court documents filed on Tuesday (January 26), Banton’s high powered defense attorneys David Markus Marc and David Seitles claimed that the government entrapped the singer, because the informant pressured Buju to purchase the cocaine.
Markus is pushing to have the informants identity revealed, because his credibility or lack thereof, could send Buju Banton for the rest of his life.
The singer allegedly met the informant on a flight from Madrid, Spain to Miami, Florid, in July of 2009.
The informant allegedly spent the next three months trying to purchase the cocaine.
“In addition to refusing to disclose the identity, the government has refused to identify the prior cases in which he has been involved, the outcomes of those cases, the amount of money he has earned making cases for the government, or even the amount he has been paid (or expects to be paid) in this case," the court papers read.
Buju Banton, born Mark Myrie, was arrested on December 10 and charged with conspiring to buy more than five kilograms of cocaine from an undercover law enforcement officer, and possession of a firearm during the course of illegal activity.
Although he was not present in the warehouse that was used in the sting operation when the others were arrested, the DEA claims they have audio and videotaped evidence of Buju Banton testing a package of cocaine.
Buju Banton has pleaded not guilty to all charges and is being held in Pinellas County Jail in Tampa, Florida, without bail.
His trial begins in March.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/27/22108778.aspx
Pimpin’ Ken Speaks on Ice-T, Payroll Diss; Warns Youth
Wednesday, January 27, 2010 3:03 PM
By Ismael AbduSalaam
(AllHipHop News) Pimpin’ Ken has taken less than 48 hours to respond to a viral diss from rival and American Pimp co-star Payroll the Pimp (Lorence Hammond).
In the previous clip, Payroll derided Ken’s merits in the street and music industry, and continued taunting famous rapper Ice-T for his marriage to model Coco.
According to Payroll, he boasted that he had $10,000 which would be used to steal away Coco from her husband.
Ken first defended his friend Ice-T, questioning why a pimp would proudly proclaim his intentions to spend excess money on a woman.
“I've been in pimp game 35 years; I can tell if a n***a has a pimp bone in his body. The n***a saying Ice-T ain't got a pimp bone, is the same n***a telling Ice-T he got $10,000 to trick with,” said an incredulous Ken in an interview with Hood Box Office.
Since his appearance in the Hughes Brother’s documentary American Pimp, Pimpin’ Ken has become a fixture in the Hip-Hop community.
In the last decade, Ken has appeared on tracks with 50 Cent, Too $hort, Pastor Troy, Mack 10, Lil Jon, and the late Pimp C, in addition to writing Pimpology: The 48 Laws of the Game with author Karen Hunter.
For Ken, the new “pimp game” is the music industry and online media, which he praised Ice-T for thriving in independently.
“Ice-T is a good n***a. We all want to get to the point where we can pimp on another level, were we can pimp these folks for hundreds of millions of dollars,” Ken detailed. “If a motherf**ker can get someone on his album and help him sell 100,000 albums at $10, that's a million dollars…the man, whatever he's doing, as long as he's breaking something, is pimping in my eyes.”
Ken also clarified his definition of pimping by issuing a strong warning to those considering an actual career in pimping, which is completely illegal.
“That archaic old style of pimping, talking about having a b***h on the track…jail…that's where you're gonna be, these folks ain't playing.”
At press time, Ice-T has not commented on either video clip.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/27/22108835.aspx
AHH Stray News: New DMX In Feb., Palmers In Philly, X-Clan
Wednesday, January 27, 2010 5:20 PM
By Ace Cannon
Get Alerts A new track by rapper DMX has been released to the Internet. The song, titled “Put Em Up,” is taken from a self-titled album that will hit stores on February 23, 2010. The latest release from DMX features guest appearances from Mobb Deep, JR Writer, Loon, AZ and others. A *tracklisting for the entire album is listed at the bottom of the article.
A Hip-Hop club in Philadelphia is under fire for allegedly filing false returns and underreporting profits. Palmer Social Club, a “private” club and after-hours hangout is popular in rap circles in the region. Palmer’s principal owner Michael Weiss, 46, is accused of underreporting profits by more than $1.6 million dollars and registering the club as a non-profit. Weiss allegedly gave the night spot’s accountant bogus paper work, which he knew would be used for tax returns. An attorney for Weiss has denied all charges and stated that the government’s calculations of the clubs profits are wrong. Unless the matter is resolved, it will go trial.
X-Clan will give their first show since announcing plans to reunite to celebrate their 20th anniversary as a group. The X-Clan will perform at The August Wilson Center for African American Culture in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, as part of a fundraising promotions to support the relief effort in Haiti. Groups like Formula412, National Slam Bush champion Vanessa German, International Songwriting Competition winner JAHI, award-winning poet, playwright and performing artist Dr. Goddess, award-winning actor and spoken word artist Ezra, revolutionary lyricist Sha-King, MC Living Proofe, Idasa Tariq and DJ Shade Cobain will perform during the evening. Tickets are $10 or a $5 donation, along with other non-perishables that will be sent to Haiti via Wyclef Jean’s Yele Haiti Foundation. Doors open at 6:30 PM.
*Tracklisting for DMX’s self titled album that hits stores on February 23, 2010:
1. Prayer
2. Put Em Up
3. I've Seen ft. J.R. Writer
4. Solid ft. Rampage
5. Baby I'm Going to Win
6. Boy Back Up ft. Mobb Deep
7. You Aint S**t ft. Loon and G-Dep
8. This is That ft. Hell Rell
9. F**k That B**ch
10. No Where to Hide ft. AZ
11. Lil Room 12. Silent Prayer
13. Have You Ever
From AlHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/27/22109569.aspx
Apache To Be Laid To Rest Saturday
Wednesday, January 27, 2010 10:31 PM
By Mike Winslow
(AllHipHop News) Funeral arrangements for a rapper of Apache have been released.
The Flavor Unit rapper will be laid to rest this Saturday (January 30th) at Christian Pentecostal Church, in Irvington New Jersey.
Apache born Anthony Teaks, died on January 22nd, after a undisclosed illness.
A wake for the rapper will take place on January 28th at 6:00 PM, while the funeral will follow Saturday morning (January 29th) at 11 AM.
In addition to being a founding member of Queen Latifah's Flavor Unit, Apache, also rose to fame in 1992. with his hit single "Gangsta B**ch."
Christian Pentecostal Church is located at 971 Clinton Ave in Irvington, New Jersey.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/27/22109816.aspx
Rap/Rock Collides At Grammy's; Em, Slash, Wayne & More Announced
Thursday, January 28, 2010 9:36 AM
By Nolan Strong
(AllHipHop News) The worlds of Hip-Hop and Rock will collide during the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards, which take place this weekend in Los Angeles.
Singer/comedian Jamie Foxx and T-Pain will hit the stage with Hip-Hop pioneer Doug E. Fresh and legendary Guns-N-Roses guitarist, Slash.
Newcomer Drake will hit the stage with previous Grammy winners Eminem and Lil Wayne and they will be backed by Travis Barker.
T-Pain is up for four nominations this year in the Best R&B Performance By a Duo or Group for his hit single “Blame It,” which features Jamie Foxx. The track is also up for Best R&B Song.
The song “I’m On A Boat” (with The Lonely Island) is up for best Rap/Sung Collaboration, while T-Pain’s album Thr33 Ringz is up for Best Contemporary R&B Album.
Foxx and Eminem landed three nods each.
Foxx landed two for “Blame It” and will face off against T-Pain in the Best R&B Contemporary Album category for his release Intuition, while Eminem is up for Best Rap Solo Performance for "Beautiful," Best Rap Performance By A Duo Or Group for "Crack A Bottle" (with Dr. Dre & 50 Cent), and Best Rap Album for Relapse.
Other performers during the evening include The Black Eyed Peas, Beyonce, Maxwell, Jennifer Hudson, Usher, Lady Gaga and Mary J. Blige and Andrea Bocelli, who will duet during a benefit portion for Haiti.
Presenters include LL Cool J., Ke$ha, John Legend, Wyclef Jean, Jennifer Lopez, Seal and Lionel Richie.
The 52nd Annual Grammy Awards take place live on Sunday, Jan. 31, at the Staples Center in Los Angeles and will air on CBS from 8:00PM - 11:30PM.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/28/22110052.aspx
Ego Trip Hosts New York Hip Hop Documentary Series
January 28, 2010 08:40:00 AM CST | by Salima Koroma
Ego trip's contributions to rap culture have spanned over fifteen years. Planting its roots in the early '90s with its underground Hip Hop magazine, the entity would eventually bring audiences television shows like "The (White) Rapper Show," and the cultural commentary special "ego trip's Race-O-Rama." Now, ego trip will host a monthly Hip Hop documentary film screening series in New York's Maysles Institute.
The first showing of the event "Under The Influence of ego trip" will feature two films: 80 Blocks From Tiffany's and Shotgun, both filmed in the early 1980s. Following the films will be a panel discussion with the films' respective directors Gary Weis and Ponce Laspina.
On Feb. 25, ego trip will screen films Electric Boogie and Beat This!: A Hip Hop History while the Mar. 25 screening will feature Public Enemy and LL Cool J Live in Europe and Big Fun In The Big Town.
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10528/title.ego-trip-hosts-new-york-hip-hop-documentary-series
New Music Series, Closed Sessions, Drops In March
January 28, 2010 08:38:00 AM CST | by Edwin Ortiz
Chicago-based tastemakers Mike Kolar, Omar Solis, and DJ RTC have started a new viral music series called Closed Sessions. The premise of the series is to gather a handful of rappers into one studio and create quality music, which will be distributed to listeners at no cost.
RTC, who along with deejaying duties acts as editor-in-chief for rubyhornet.com, will also be posting footage of the recording sessions to give fans a more personal experience with the likes of Bun B, Rhymefest, Donnis, and Kidz In The Hall.
Rapper Big Pooh, who is featured alongside Truck North on the record “Dutch Dalton,” explained his reasoning behind collaborating for the Closed Sessions series. “I think rubyhornet.com has begun something great with their Closed Session series. A lot of fans want a closer look at their favorite artist and this is a way to let them in on the writing and creative process of creating music. Even the casual listener may gain a greater respect for the process as well as the artist after viewing an episode of Closed Session.”
Closed Sessions Vol. 1 will be released in March of 2010. In the same month, they will begin recording for Closed Sessions Vol. 2, which will take place at the SXSW Music Festival.
The track listing for Closed Sessions Vol. 1 is below:
1. Curren$y - Rapper Weed (prod. by Tony Baines)
2. Truck North and Big Pooh - Dutch Dalton (prod. by Tony Baines)
3. Amanda Diva - I Can See (prod. by Slot-A)
4. Kidz In The Hall, Chip Tha Ripper, Mikkey Halsted and Donnis - Fresh Academy (prod. by Double O)
5. Tanya Morgan - Posted (prod. by Tony Baines)
6. Emilio Rojas, Scheme and Astonish - Helluva Year (prod. by Dario)
7. U-N-I, Hollywood Holt and CurT@!n$ - So Cold (prod. by Million $ Mano)
8. Skyzoo and Rhymefest - Crack The Code (prod. by K-Salaaam and Beatnik)
9. Bun B and GLC - Happiness Before Riches (prod. by The Weathermen)
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10527/title.new-music-series-closed-sessions-drops-in-march
Prodigy Says He Warned Nas About Jay-Z Beef
January 28, 2010 12:01:00 AM CST | by Slava Kuperstein
Although Prodigy of Mobb Deep and Nas' relationship is now a strained one, the two Queensbridge emcees were once friends.
Looking back to that time, Prodigy revealed in a just-published, two-part lost interview with PlanetIll.com that he warned Nas that Jay-Z dissed him as early as 1997.
"So now I ain't peep it back then when [it] came out, but down the line when I'm in the studio talking to Nas around that time I peeped it," said Prodigy, speaking about Jay-Z's song "Where I'm From."
"I'm like 'Aww he talking about me in that song, yo, and he bit our shit with the little plastic cups in the hood,' and if you do the research and history of it, Jay-Z was on some speed boat in the Bahamas Versace type of shit."
Prodigy continued, explaining his role in Jay-Z's perceived change in subject matter, and Memphis Bleek's role in the beef. "Then 'Shook Ones' came out, then Jay came with the plastic cups, football jerseys in the projects, taking jabs at us and I was like 'Nas, what we need to do is go at these niggas because number one, his lil' man is trying to shit on you; talking about your life is written and all this shit. That's when Memphis Bleek was trying to take lil jabs at Nas. I was like, 'These niggas is going at us subliminally,' and I was like, "Fuck that, we need to go at those nigga. Let's make a song about them, son."
According to P, Nas didn't see the need to beef at the time. " [Nas] was like, 'Nah nah that nigga ain't nobody to be doing that son.' I'm like, 'Son, I'm telling you it's gonna be a problem,' and he like, 'Nah. I'm like aight cool.' 'Cause in my mind, I'mma address it on my own anyway. I don't give a fuck what this nigga do. I love you Nas but I'mma handle this 'cause you buggin."
Currently, Prodigy is serving time in prison for a weapons possession charge.
Visit PlanetIll.com to read both parts of the '00s interview with Prodigy.
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10526/title.prodigy-says-he-warned-nas-about-jay-z-beef
Jay Electronica Says He Will Collaborate With Lupe Fiasco
January 27, 2010 04:01:00 PM CST | by Jake Paine
Jay Electronica's mystery may be his magic. The New Orleans-born lyricist has made a lot of noise through very limited output, most notably his "Exhibit" series with booming Just Blaze production. While his Decon Records (as of now) debut remains on hold per his own request, Jay spoke to The Brooklyn Bodega last week in a rare interview.
Asked about a recent OkayPlayer.com message board thread comparing him to fellow emcee Lupe Fiasco, Jay Electronica revealed a potential upcoming collaboration. "We going to be on a track together in the immediate future. That's my brother. He reached out. I got bad phone etiquette so it took me a minute to reach back. But we gonna reach, we gonna talk. We’ve been in communication and we’re going to work," said Electronica.
To read the full interview, including Jay's analysis of his acceptance within the New York underground Hip Hop community, despite being born an outsider, read here.
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10524/title.jay-electronica-says-he-will-collaborate-with-lupe-fiasco
DX News Bits: T.I., Mystikal, Bishop Lamont
January 27, 2010 02:01:00 PM CST | by Danielle Harling
An up and coming rapper named Motoe Blizzid is suing Atlanta rapper T.I. for copyright infringement for the song “What You Know.”
According to AllHipHop.com Motoe Blizzid, who’s real name is Nathan Filby, claims that “What You Know” samples part of his song “Reverence.” Blizzid also revealed that he shopped his song to several people in the music industry before it was allegedly received by a representative for a company that works with T.I.
T.I., nor a representative for the rapper, have acknowledged Motoe Blizzid’s claims.
In other Hip Hop news, rapper Mystikal made a recent appearance on Whoo Kid and Coach PR’s radio show on Shade 45. Mystikal, who was recently released from prison, spoke on Master P, returning to music, support from fans, and even Haiti.
“No matter how messed up you think your situation is there’s always somebody going through something worse. Look at Haiti man,” Mystikal explained to Whoo Kid and Coach PR. “I was in that place [New Orleans] when Katrina happened. When an event like that happens you not worried about yourself no more.”
In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, rapper Bishop Lamont revealed that he will finally be releasing new music now that he is no longer on Aftermath Records.
“We’re about to finally bless the world with a lot of music,” Bishop Lamont told the Los Angeles Times. “It got to the point where it wasn’t fair to the fans or to myself to have to keep on waiting…There’s a lot of crazy records I got to take with me. There’s a J Dilla record that I got with the blessing of DJ House Shoes. Tracks from DJ Khalil, Lord Finesse, 9th Wonder, Mr. Porter, Focus, basically a who’s who of underground Hip Hop.”
Bishop Lamont announced in early January that he was no longer on Aftermath Records; reports claim that upon his departure Bishop Lamont left with hundreds of his masters.
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10522/title.dx-news-bits-ti-mystikal-bishop-lamont
Tom Caruana Talks Wu-Tang Vs. The Beatles Mash-Up
January 27, 2010 01:01:00 PM CST | by Andres Tardio
Mash-ups that pin Rap music with other genres and artists have become more popular in the last few years. After Danger Mouse’s Grey Album, a mash-up of The Beatles’ White Album and Jay-Z's Black Album, more of the mainstream world began to take notice. This intensified with MTV's Mash-Ups, where Jay-Z and Linkin Park joined forces to mix their work in what would lead to tracks like “Encore/Numb.”
Now, Tom Caruana decided to release his own mash-up project. Inspired by Wu-Tang and The Beatles, this music teacher from England took to work on Wu-Tang Vs. The Beatles: Enter the Magical Mystery Chambers, and released it online. Caruana has already received supportive words from Raekwon and he's also gotten featured in various media outlets, including Kanye West's blog. Recently, Caruana spoke with the Los Angeles Times about what inspired him and more.
“One of the tracks that’s on there, ‘R.E.C. Room,’ I made a couple of years ago. I had this easy-listening record of this orchestra playing cover versions of lots of different ’60’s stuff. It had this instrumental version of ‘Girl,’ and the whole thing was just stunning. But I didn’t want to just take a little bit of it. I took the whole song, and sped it up to the right tempo, so it has the complete arrangement and feel of the original Beatles song. Then I made the ‘C.R.E.A.M.’ remix. And then I was like, O.K., I’ve got two tracks now that have Beatles samples with Wu-Tang a cappellas. A few days later I found Ol’ Dirty Bastard talking on YouTube about how he was influenced by the Beatles. And I just thought, ‘This is it.’”
Some of the project can be complicated, but Caruana shared that many samples can be heard throughout.
“‘Uzi (Pinky Ring)’ has got a lot of samples on it. There’s ‘Glass Onion,’ then it went to an Arif Mardin version of ‘Glass Onion,’ then when Ghostface comes in it goes to ‘Getting Better,’ then RZA comes in and it’s a Ramsey Lewis version of ‘Everybody’s Got Something to Hide Except for Me and My Monkey.’ Then Inspectah Deck comes in and it’s a cover version of ‘Hey, Jude.” Then Method Man comes in and that’s ‘While My Guitar Gently Weeps.’ And then GZA’s at the end, and that’s ‘Why Don’t We Do It In the Road.’ I’ve seen on blogs, somebody say something like, I’ve only heard two Beatles samples that I recognized in here. And to me that’s quite a good thing – you have to listen extra hard to hear them. I was purposeful not to take ‘Love Me Do’ and put Wu-Tang with it.”
Downloads and streams can be found at Tea Sea Records.
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10523/title.tom-caruana-talks-wu-tang-vs-the-beatles-mash-up
Chicago Songwriters Say BEP Stole 'Boom Boom Pow'
Wednesday, January 27, 2010 11:25 AM
By Nolan Strong
(AllHipHop News) A copyright lawsuit against The Black Eyed Peas was filed in a Chicago court yesterday (January 26) by a group of Chicago songwriters, who claim the chart topping group stole the song “Boom Boom Pow.”
The lawsuit was filed yesterday (January 26) in United States District Court of Chicago by plaintiffs Ebony Latrice “Phoenix Phenom” Batts and Manfred Mohr.
The pair claim the Black Eyed Peas stole their song “Boom Dynamite” and used it as the basis for “Boom Boom Pow,” a Grammy-nominated #1 single, taken from BEP’s multi-platinum smash fifth album The End.
The songwriters claim they submitted the track to Interscope Records. One year later, the songwriters were shocked to hear “Boom Boom Pow,“ which they claim is strikingly similar to BEP’s.
"My clients submitted their copyrighted song ‘Boom Dynamite’ to Interscope Records after Interscope had shown interest in some of their music, and the Black Eyed Peas later copied the song when they wrote "Boom Boom Pow,” the songwriters attorney Ira Gould told AllHipHop.com. “A simple listening of the two songs will tell you that the songs are substantially similar, and that the hooks of the two songs are virtually identical in rhythm and lyrics."
The Complaint also refers to other claims of copyright infringement made against the Black Eyed Peas, and seeks unspecified damages, disgorgement of profits, and punitive damages.
The lawsuit number can be found be referencing: 10-cv-00539.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/27/22108886.aspx
Blitz the Ambassador Helps Launch BRM Emerging Artist Showcase
Wednesday, January 27, 2010 10:41 AM
By Chris Richburg
(AllHipHop News) Underground rapper Blitz the Ambassador will be among a trio of artists taking their notoriety to the next level, as part of the Beyond Race Magazine’s (BRM) Emerging Artist Showcase.
The event, which takes place Thursday (Jan. 28) at Blvd. in New York City, is the first in a monthly concert series presented by BRM, an internationally distributed publication that covers cutting edge music and entertainment and the online media company, Lumeefly.
Lumeefly CEO Tommy Johnson Jr. told AllHipHop.com that the alliance between the two companies came after discovering “synergies in our brands core values of helping musicians gain access and exposure to global market.”
The Emerging Artist Showcase marks the latest achievement for Blitz the Ambassador, who has received critical acclaim for his 2009 album, Stereotype, as well as exposure on MTV2 with the video for his single “Breathe.”
The Emerging Artist Showcase will include a music set from DJ Jedi as well as performances from New York City-based party band Bodega Girls and Grandchildren, an experimental rock group out of Philadelphia known for its live performance on stage.
As part of the event, fans will vote will vote for their favorite performer. Those who are unable to attend the Showcase can watch the concert online via Lumeefly’s real-time live stream.
A multiple view of the stage as well as opportunities to ask questions about their favorite artists will be available for Internet viewers, who will also be able to vote for acts online on www.lumeefly.com.
Cost to watch the BRM Emerging Artist Showcase online is $3.49. For those attending the show, doors will open at 7 p.m. Proceeds from tickets purchased for the Showcase will be donated to the “Partners in Health” Haitian relief effort.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/27/22108786.aspx
Crooked I Creates Management Company With Industry Vets
Wednesday, January 27, 2010 9:21 AM
By Roman Wolfe
(AllHipHop News) Rapper Crooked I will wear two hats as a rapper and now a CEO, with the launch of Nothing But Music Entertainment Group, a joint venture with Kim “Coniyac” P (Doggy’s Angles) and business manager Shawndel “Jazzy D.” Rosa.
The music production/artist development entertainment company will specialize in image consultation, marketing, management and digital video/film/music/DVD distribution.
NBM Entertainment’s goal is to harness the years of various experiences each one of the proprietors has gathered throughout the years.
"Coniyac, Jazzy and I have put together one of the most powerful new music production company's based in the West" Crooked I told AllHipHop.com in a statement. "And we all possess the tools to make a dynamic impact in the industry."
As a member of Doggy’s Angels, Coniyac was signed to Snoop Dogg’s DoggHouse imprint, which was distributed by TVT Records. The success of Doggy’s Angels’ award-winning single “Baby If Your Ready” helped Coniyac learn a number of lessons in the industry, in addition to preparing her for her own venture to help new acts.
"Our company provides endless avenues for everyone we represent, and we focus on creating beneficial opportunities in this industry,” Coniyac stated.
Shawndel “Jazzy D.” Rosa is the President of Blu Division Music Group and also manages Cash Money/Universal rapper Glasses Malone.
“Our mission at NBM is to provide excellent and unsurpassed management representation for musical artists and producers,” Jazzy D. said. “We feel that such representation is lacking overall in the music industry and we are out to make a difference by giving our roster of artists the best guidance possible through our committed staff."
NBM Entertainment is currently expanding their brand by hosting showcases and industry conferences.
For more information on NBM visit www.nothinbutmusicent.com.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/27/22108767.aspx
AHH Stray News: Hip-Hop Karoaoke, 50 Cent, Bobby Creekwater
Tuesday, January 26, 2010 4:30 PM | 38 comments
By Ace Cannon
(AllHipHop News) Former Shady Records artist Bobby Creekwater is starting off the New Year with a new track, titled “Exhibit B.C. (Squared)." According to Bobby Creekwater, he has been maintaining a low profile while he continues to develop his career after being signed to Eminem’s record label. “First and foremost, I would like to say I truly appreciate the people that identify with me,” Bobby Creekwater stated. “My struggles, my short comings, and all the other s**t that makes me a human being. I appreciate the patience and the support at a time where I'm simply trying to find myself and my way. I'm not quite sure that will happen anytime soon, but until then I'll keep giving you an ear full.” To check out Bobby Creekwater’s latest single, click here. http://www.sendspace.com/file/28uhhh
Hip Hop Karaoke has revealed that Big Daddy Kane and Hot 97’s Peter Rosenberg have been added as celebrity judges this month at New York’s Irving Plaza. The pair join Black Moon’s Buckshot as judges of the popular event, which takes place this Friday (January 29). The three judges will decide which of the 12 regional finalists in Hip Hop Karaoke will take home the $1,000 grand prize and title of “Hip Hop Karaoke Champion.” Tickets to the event cost $13 dollars. For more information or to purchase advance tickets, click here: www.hhkchampionship.com
50 Cent will perform at a number of venues in Europe as part of a new International tour that will take place in March. 50 Cent has been confirmed to perform at Tesla Arena in the Czech Republic on March 5th, to support his new album Before I Self Destruct. The rapper will tour Europe and Africa to promote his album. 50 will kick off the tour on February 23 in Berlin, Germany and wrap it up April 15 in Moscow, Russia. A listing of 50 Cent’s confirmed upcoming tour dates are listed below:
Tue 02/23/10 Berlin, Germany Columbiahalle
Thu 02/25/10 Paris, France Zenith Paris
Fri 02/26/10 Brussels, Belgium Forest National
Sat 02/27/10 Essen, Germany Grugahalle-Messe Essen GmbH
Sun 02/28/10 Zurich, Switzerland Hallenstadion Zurich
Thu 03/04/10 Neu-Isenburg, Germany Hugenottenhalle
Sun 03/14/10 Hamburg, Germany Docks Konzerte Disco
Fri 03/19/10 Birmingham, United Kingdom LG Arena
Sun 03/21/10 Dublin, Ireland The O2 Dublin
Mon 03/22/10 Belfast, United Kingdom Odyssey Arena
Thu 03/25/10 Manchester, United Kingdom Manchester Evening News Arena
Thu 04/01/10 Belgrade, Serbia Belgrade Arena
Sat 04/03/10 St. Petersburg, Russia Ice Palace
Mon 04/05/10 Moscow, Russia Olympiiski
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/26/22107748.aspx
Stack Bundles' Brother Yung Stack Launches Career
Tuesday, January 26, 2010 1:00 PM
By Morris Moore
(AllHipHop News) Young Stack, younger brother of slain rapper Stack Bundles has revealed that he will be dropping a mixtape and launching a career as a Hip-Hop artist.
During an interview from Stuck Bundles’ gravesite, Yung Stack revealed he will drop an official mixtape this February, with the help of his group, Riot Gang.
According to Yung Stack, he started his rap career two years ago, right around the time his elder brother Stack Bundles, a member The Byrd Gang, was found murdered.
In June of 2007 Stack Bundles, born Rayquon Elliott., was found shot to death outside of his home in Far Rockaway, Queens.
The main suspect in his shooting was found dead just days later, with two gunshot wounds to the head and one to the leg.
“In two and a half years, look what I done did,” Yung Stack told FreakGenius TV. “And I aint even going hard, I am just getting my f**king feet wet. Imagine if I sit back and put my all into this. I wasn’t never the best brother in the world, I wasn’t the smartest f***king up in school. It took this to really see that life aint no joke, s**t can be really taken from you. That’s my older brother. We wasn’t cool, we just started getting cool. The s**t kills, me, every day.”
Although he remained tightlipped, Yung Stack claimed that when he first embarked upon his rap career, people close to his older brother laughed at his attempts.
He also claimed that certain, unnamed former associates of Stack Bundles have used his violent death to promote their own careers and haven't taken care of his family.
“My brother’s no longer here, so when n***as try to do s**t for him or say his name, I understand yall showing love, but when you do it too much, you are taking advantage of it, that man’s not here,” Yung Stack stated. “When I first started my videos, you aint never hear me‘RIP Stack.’ No, no. that’s my brother. It’s bad enough he’s lying where he’s lying at. So I’ma do me, that’s what he would want me to do."
Yung Stack also claimed that members of his brothers circle laughed at the notion that he could launch a successful rap career on his own.
“I aint gonna say no names, but they laughed at me, [They said] ‘ yo that’s not your place’,” Yung Stack revealed.
Undeterred, Yung Stack said his new mixtape, My Gift or My Curse will hit the streets on February 14.
“Shout out to everyone that supports me, everybody that constantly checks on me,” Yung Stack stated. “I appreciate that s**twith the fullest. Even the people that aint supporting me, I still thank you for that. Yall the reason I’m about to start going hard.”
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/26/22107719.aspx
Jacki-O, Tray Chaney Become Ambassadors For Disabled
Tuesday, January 26, 2010 10:44 AM
By Roman Wolfe
(AllHipHop News) Rapper Jacki-O and author/poet/activist Tray Chaney have been selected as Ambassadors for Community Options Inc., a national non-profit that assists people with disabilities.
The pair will be featured in Community Options’ national advertising and promotional campaign to raise awareness about the non-profit’s services, which include developing community-based homes and providing employment support for the disabled.
Community Options operates in 32 cities across nine states, including New York, New Jersey, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Kentucky, Texas and other states.
"As a mother myself, I know how precious the lives of all children are. For that reason, it is my belief that any organization that provides assistance for those with disabilities---regardless of their age---is one that we need to support,” Jacki-O said in a statement.
Tray Chaney, a native of Baltimore and former star of HBO's The Wire, felt that it was his duty as an American to assist others with disabilities.
"At a time when all of us are in need of something, it is easy to forget that there are those who face daily challenges that we take for granted,” Chaney stated. “Organizations like Community Options remind us that those who have must give to those who don't. It is our responsibility as Americans.”
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/26/22107662.aspx
Rapper Sues T.I., Claims He Stole 'What You Know'
Tuesday, January 26, 2010 9:14 AM
By Roman Wolfe
(AllHipHop News) Rapper T.I. could be back in front of a judge, but instead of criminal charges, the rapper is being sued for copyright infringement by an upcoming rapper.
At issue is T.I.’s Grammy Award winning song “What You Know,” which Nathan Filby aka Motoe Blizzid, claims T.I. stole.
Filby, who is being represented by One LLP, claims the 2006 track sampled portions of a 2004 song he made titled Reverence.
He claims that the track was delivered to a number of industry insiders before reaching a representative at Relentless Management, a company that reportedly works with T.I.
In court documents, One LLP and Filby claimed that the tracks contain the “same harmonic” range and lawyers even presented documents that showed an algorithm that claimed to show the song’s similarities scientifically.
According to reports, Filby seeks a trial by jury and all profits derived from the song, which was featured on T.I.’s hit album King.
T.I. is currently in a halfway house after serving almost 8 months in a low security prison, after he was caught purchasing machine guns and silencers in October of 2008.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/26/22107648.aspx
P.Miller Announces Benefit Superbowl Concert for Haiti Teens
Monday, January 25, 2010 8:00 PM
By Ismael AbduSalaam
(AllHipHop News) Fresh off the New Orleans Saints securing their first Superbowl berth, entrepreneur P.Miller will helm a Superbowl benefit concert to assist in rebuilding Haiti's schools.
A New Orleans native, Miller witnessed the destruction of Hurricane Katrina firsthand, and has made it a goal to prevent Haitian children from losing their education needs during the rebuilding process.
“Seeing the process that the Hurricane Katrina victim kids have gone through, I understand the importance of the immediate need to help start the recovering and rebuilding process for education and getting kids back into the school system,” Miller explained to AllHipHop.com. “The earthquake has destroyed many schools. I’m teaming up with young entertainers, throwing a concert, and reaching out to young stars that want to make a difference. Kids can get involved and make a difference in Haiti.”
Miller's work will be filtered through iHeartHaitiKids.org, which offers donation opportunities ranging from $25-$1000.
As with peers Wycelf Jean and Trina, Miller hopes everyone in the Hip-Hop community will mobilize long-term relief efforts well beyond Haiti’s front-page news coverage.
"Your donation will also be used towards the rebuilding of their schools, school supplies and books; putting these devastated kids on track to receive a proper education in their recovery process,” Miller continued. “This is definitely not an overnight process, this will take several years. You can log onto iHeartHaitiKids.org to do your part. I’m also proud of the way that the Hip-Hop industry has stepped up with all of the celebrities making a difference. Just remember, there are so many kids in Haiti that still need help. Donations big and small, together we can make a difference.”
For further information and donation opportunities, please visit iHeartHaitiKids.org.
At press time, P.Miller has not announced the concert’s full lineup for Superbowl weekend.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/25/22106389.aspx
Kurupt Reforms 4HRSMN With Ras, Canibus, Killah Priest
Monday, January 25, 2010 5:57 PM
By Roman Wolfe
(AllHipHop News) Rapper Kurupt has revealed that he is planning to reunite rap super group The 4Hrsmn, which features Killah Priest, Canibus and Ras Kass.
The group of revered lyricists have collaborated on each others albums throughout the years, but a full-length album featuring each member has never been released.
A number of outtakes were released in 2001 on a leaked album titled The Horseman Project.
“Me and M-Eighty [Wu-Tang A&R] is putting this plan together to do this right,” Kurupt said. “We gonna rack up Cani, Ras, Priest. We are going to put together one of the best albums you can possibly hear. It’s definitely going to be the best Horseman album we’ve ever done. We’re about to bottle it all up and sell it in a drink.”
According to Kurupt, M-Eighty, who is also executive producing Canibus’ upcoming Warlab Records album Melatonin Magik, will help the group with their business, something they lacked in the past as a group.
“We never really had that, so I had a long talk with M-Eighty and we are putting that together now,” Kurupt continued. “We are putting the structure to it and we are going to give yell one of these classic, major Hip-Hop albums.”
No release date was available for the project at press time.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/25/22107002.aspx
Black Eyed Peas Win, Then Lose Best Group Award
Monday, January 25, 2010 11:30 AM
By Roman Wolfe
(AllHipHop News) The Black Eyed Peas were disappointed at France’s NRJ Awards in Cannes, this weekend, after being announced as Best International Group.
The award was announced by choreographer Kamel Quali, who mistakenly declared the group winners, until minutes later, when he returned and admitted the error.
German band Tokio Hotel was then given the award for Best International Group, leaving audience members and fans a bit confused.
The same thing happened to Katy Perry at the 2009 Awards. She was awarded Best International Song honors, when the real winner was R&B songbird Rihanna.
In related news, will.I.am and The Black Eyed Peas have announced the “I.am Hope For Haiti Contest,” which urges fans to go out and fundraise for Haiti.
The top 10 fans that raise funds for the cause will be invited to attend a charity event with will.I.am in San Jose, California on April 1.
The top 3 fundraisers will each receive two free tickets the Black Eyed Peas concert the following day, also in San Jose.
The contest closes on February 12. For more information or to donate visit: http://apps.facebook.com/causes/posts/376481
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/25/22106357.aspx
Drake and LeBron James Team for All Star Celebrity Experience
Monday, January 25, 2010 9:38 AM
By Chris Richburg
(AllHipHop News) The worlds of Hip-Hop and basketball will once again intersect during this year’s NBA All-Star weekend, as Young Money rap star Drake and the Cleveland Cavaliers’ LeBron James host the All Star Celebrity Experience.
The event will take place February 12 at the AMPM Lounge in Dallas and various entertainment areas in the city’s Mosaic building.
Located at 300 N Akard Street in downtown Dallas, AMPM is noted for an upscale vibe that includes more than seven party areas, 10 V.I.P. bars and two penthouse suites as well as music provided by four renowned DJs.
The All Star Celebrity Experience will be among a series of events planned for the all-star weekend.
The 59th NBA All-Star Game is slated to be played on February 14, 2010, at the Dallas Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, TX.
Among the starters lined up for the annual competition are James, Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade, Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard, Boston Celtics forward Kevin Garnett and Philadelphia 76er point guard Allen Iverson for the East as well as the Phoenix Suns’ Steve Nash and Amar'e Stoudemire, Los Angeles Lakers standout Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony of the Denver Nuggets and Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs for the West.
The All Star Celebrity weekend marks the second time Drake has worked on a James-related project. The rapper was featured on the soundtrack to the basketball star’s documentary More than a Game.
The tune, titled “Forever,” included fellow rhymesayers Kanye West, Lil Wayne and Eminem.
Musically, 2010 looks to be a productive year for Drake, who saw his share of successful collaborations with Trey Songz, Timbaland, DJ Khaled, Gucci Mane, Birdman, Lil Wayne and Young Money in 2009.
The Toronto native is currently gearing up to release his forthcoming solo debut album, Thank Me Later, is slated to hit stores in March.
A portion of the proceeds will benefit LeBron James Family Foundation non-profit organization.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/25/22106278.aspx
Nate Dogg In Therapy: 'He can lift his head'
Sunday, January 24, 2010 2:00 PM
(AllHipHop News) Long beach singer Nate Dogg is recovering from a stroke and doing well in therapy, according to childhood friend and longtime collaborator, Warren G.
Nate Dogg, born Nathaniel Hale has suffered two strokes since January of 2008.
The strokes left the Grammy-nominated singer partially paralyzed and he was also using an assisted breathing tube, to make breathing easier.
"He’s in therapy getting himself together, that’s all I can tell people," Warren G. told HardKnock.tv. "I see him any and every time I want to. It’s hard when you have somebody that got two strokes, usually the person don’t make it. But he’s strong. He’s getting good therapy and he’s pulling out of it.”
According to Warren G., Nate Dogg was relearning to use basic human functions and that he “can lift his head up.”
“It’s hard when you first have a stroke, you got to learn everything over again, Warren G. stated. “It’s like you’re a baby again. You gotta learn everything.”
Between collaborations with artists like Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Tupac, Fabolous and Warren G. and solo releases, Nate Dogg has sold close to 60 million records over the past 20 years.
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/24/22105576.aspx
Cash Money CEO's Get Into Gas/Oil Business
Wednesday, January 20, 2010 10:07 AM
By Ismael AbduSalaam
(AllHipHop News) Entrepreneurs and Cash Money CEOs Bryan "Baby" and Ronald "Slim" Williams are moving their skills to a new venture in Bronald Oil & Gas, an independent company centered on identifying and using gas and oil reserves.
Bronald Oil & Gas are using several locations to develop oil and gas outlets, such as Osage County, Oklahoma, Texas, Louisiana, Florida, and unidentified Central America sites.
The Williams brothers have issued a mission statement which lists four key initiatives which they believe will be instrumental in developing oil and gas energy production in the 21st century:
Implementing proven and new cost-effective technologies to profitably recover oil and gas and extend the product life of existing reserves
Forming strategic alliances with other operators to leverage their respective experience and strengths on development
Forming partnerships with service, equipment and technology companies. By partnering with such companies, some of our fields may be designated as “testing ground” for new and developing technologies.
Building a strong investor and financial partner base by assembling and offering low to moderate risk (relative to the industry) recompletion and developmental drilling opportunities, as well as more risky exploration and development opportunities.
Bronald is seeking to work with government and private investors in these efforts while adhering to regulations that will benefit the environment.
“Bronald is committed to working cooperatively with governments and private enterprise to recover energy from known oil and gas reserves throughout North and Central America in an environmentally friendly manner,” the company states on its new website. “Bronald intends to utilize both historically successful technologies and means, as well as new innovations and technology, to recover energy resources in both and economic and environmentally efficient manner. Bronald is committed to preserving the environment, promoting worker safety and maximizing the potential output of various oil and gas assets.”
Those interested in joining Bronald Oil as investors can contact the company via the website http://bronaldoil.com/about.php
From AllHipHop.com
http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2010/01/20/22101077.aspx
Hip Hop Album Sales: The Week Ending 1/24/2010
January 27, 2010 10:01:00 AM CST | by Allen Jacobs
MTV's Hope For Haiti Now release from Friday's (January 22) multi-network telethon assumed the top position on the charts. The live release of songs specifically written for the tragedy included work from already chartering acts such as Jay-Z, Rihanna, Alicia, Keys and Mary J Blige. Wyclef Jean was also involved. Proceeds from the sale go to relief efforts in Haiti, which were independent of the over $57 million raised by phone, text and web support over the weekend.
Another compilation, Capitol's 2010 Grammy Nominees came in at #5. The collection of songs included only one track from the Hip Hop genre, courtesy of Black Eyed Peas and David Guetta's Pop hit "I Gotta Feeling," which was a top-selling single and used in a Target campaign.
Alicia Keys' Element Of Freedom remained in the Top 10. The #7 J Records release appears to be two more weeks away from a platinum plaque, though Keys' involvement with the aforementioned telethon and other media appearances could drive sales faster.
The Black Eyed Peas assumed #9 with The E.N.D. The Los Angeles-based quartet continues to fluctuate on the charts unlike typical urban releases. The release appears that it may double platinum by March, especially with their Grammy Awards coverage.
Still a Top 15 release, Mary J Blige's Stronger (With Each Tear) achieved gold status last week. The Geffen Records release features production from Hip Hop talents such as The Runners and Polow Da Don.
* Please note: figures below approximated to nearest thousandeth.
Top 200 Album Sales (Top 5 Hip Hop/R&B)
Rank Artist Album This Week Est. Total
1
Various Artists
Hope For Haiti Now
171,000
171,000
5 Various Artists
2010 Grammy Nominees 49,000
49,000
7
Alicia Keys
Element of Freedom
40,000
928,000
9
Black Eyed Peas
The E.N.D.
35,000
1,890,000
14
Mary J Blige
Stronger (With Each Tear)
29,000
504,000
Lil Wayne and teammates' We Are Young Money crossed the 250,000 mark last week. It has also been announced that Drake's Thank Me Later will be seeing record store shelves as of March, furthering the Young Money dominance. Drake's So Far Gone EP was at #70, which has sold over 350,000 units.
The repackaging of Eminem's Relapse (as Relapse: Refill) and Jay-Z's Blueprint 3 only sold seven more units last week respectively: (14,560 vs. 14,553). Both releases aim for multi-platinum status, with equal potential in the next quarter. 50 Cent's Before I Self Destruct heads towards 400,000. The Interscope album may be Fif's last with his second major label.
Once a championed producer of underground Hip Hop, RJD2 and his The Colossus cracked the charts at #168. The former Def Jux producer and deejay, and one half of Soul Position released the latest project on his RJ's Electrical Connections label, which is distributed through The Orchard. The project features both Phonte, as well as veteran Colombus emcee Illogic.
Rank Artist Album This Week Est. Total
23
Young Money
We Are Young Money
19,000
251,000
30
Eminem Relapse 15,000
1,791,000
31
Jay-Z
Blueprint 3
15,000
1,563,000
70
50 Cent
Before I Self Destruct
6,800
372,000
168
RJD2
The Colossus
2,800
2,900
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10520/title.hip-hop-album-sales-the-week-ending-1-24-2010
Sandman Launches Philadelphia Coalition Performances
January 27, 2010 10:01:00 AM CST | by Melanie Cornish
Philadelphia emcee and onetime Re-Up Gang member Sandman has launched his own event promoting the talents from the City of Brotherly Love. Joining forces with Gene Banks, Jr. for Philadelphia Coalition Performances otherwise known as P.C.P., the first show takes place tonight, Wednesday January 27, at the Q-BA Lounge at 3rd & Girard in Philadelphia. Appearing at the event are Reed Dollarz, James Cagnie, Kree Forch, Supa Flyboys and Sandman himself.
Intent on giving the Philadelphia Hip Hop community an opportunity to perform live, the onetime Interscope Records emcee is pleased with the support that the night has secured so far. “I’m sick of Philly emcees / Femcees not having anywhere to perform and I want to thank all the emcees and femcees from Philadelphia for your participation," he said in an exclusive statement to HipHopDX. “Philly supports Philly and I lead by example,” the DXnext alum concluded.
Artists are booked for P.C.P. right up until March with appearances by Black Deniro, Tone Trump, Lady Murk, E–Ness and many more scheduled to take to the stage.
Sandman also revealed that he's presently at work on a new release featuring production from Clark Kent, Ski Beats and DJ Premier. Check "Just A MC," Sandman's most recent single.
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10521/title.sandman-launches-philadelphia-coalition-performances
'Hope For Haiti Now' First Digital Album To Top Charts
January 27, 2010 12:01:00 AM CST | by Slava Kuperstein
Hope For Haiti Now, the much-publicized digital album released to raise money for the Hope for Haiti Now charities, is making history on the charts.
According to Billboard, the album is projected to sell nearly 150,000 copies in its first week, which would make it the first digital-only album in history to debut at the top of the charts.
Featured on the album is Jay-Z's high-profile collaboration with Bono of U2, Rihanna and The Edge, "Stranded (Haiti Mon Amour)," which was produced by Swizz Beatz.
According to MTV, the track is the No. 1 iTunes download in 12 countries.
The album itself was released following Friday's (Jan 22) Hope for Haiti Now telethon, which has, to date, raised over $61 million in relief for Haiti.
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10519/title.hope-for-haiti-now-first-digital-album-to-top-charts
Bekay To Remix Hunger Pains With New EP
January 27, 2010 12:01:00 AM CST | by Jake Paine
DXnext emcee Bekay released his Hunger Pains album in November on Coalmine Records. The full-length featured appearances from Masta Ace ("Brooklyn Bridge" ) and R.A. The Rugged Man amidst production from The Alchemist, J.R. Rotem and DJ Babu.
This week it was announced that Coalmine will be releasing a remix EP from Hunger Pains. The digital and vinyl collection features new mixes from M-Phazes, DJ Qvali and others.
Matt Diamond, CEO of Coalmine, made the following statement regarding the release of The Hunger Pains Remix EP. "As a label, Coalmine places a strong emphasis on the producer as well as the artist and there's not a better way to breath new life into a previously existing record than by creating a remix. The idea to release The Hunger Pains Remix EP is inspired largely from the days of when classic albums would be followed up with a 12" or vinyl EP that would contain otherwise nearly impossible to find remixes. The concept of collecting and 'digging' for those hard to find gems is an element of the culture that has shifted from record stores to downloads. Although the experience has changed, the end result is the same...dope music."
The tracklisting is as follows:
Tracklisting: 1. "I Am" (Remix) feat. Dilated Peoples
2. "I Am" [NODFACTOR.com Remix] (prod. by DJ Qvali)*
3. "Brooklyn Bridge" [Part II] feat. Sha Stimuli & Push! Montana
4. "Brooklyn Bridge" feat. Masta Ace (M-Phazes Remix)
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10518/title.bekay-to-remix-hunger-pains-with-new-ep
Lupe Fiasco Talks Upcoming Album, Gives Details On Child Rebel Soldier
January 26, 2010 06:01:00 PM CST | by Salima Koroma
On Monday night, Lupe Fiasco appeared on the DJ Green Lantern's Invasion Radio Show where he dicussed details about his third studio album, and the status of Child Rebel Soldier, the Hip Hop group composed of himself, Kanye West, and Pharrell Williams.
The Chicago native recently considered retirement due to a disillusionment with the industry, leading to the postponement of his third LP, which was previously titled LupE.N.D. Now, Lupe says he's already delivered the album, Lasers, to Atlantic Records.
"Im actually going in to turn it into the label in the morning [Tuesday]," he told the radio show yesterday. "I was actually supposed to turn it in tonight. And I'm just keeping it crispy with my fans now. I'm not going to be like 'Yeah it'll be out soon!' I'm turning it into the label tomorrow. They're going to go through their processes, see what they need to do, pick whatever singles they want to do. And I'm hoping [the album will come out] before the summer. That's just what it is."
In addition, Lupe assured that the CRS collaboration with Kanye and Parrell is still in the works, having already recorded four unreleased tracks. "I'm not even going to stray anybody like that. Pharrell hit me the other day and said we need to go back in the studio and do some more songs. I don't know what Kanye's doing, but we'll figure it out."
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10517/title.lupe-fiasco-talks-upcoming-album-gives-details-on-child-rebel-soldier
D.C. Don Juan Talks About "Lookie Looky," Says He's Recorded 4,000 Songs
January 26, 2010 02:01:00 PM CST | by Jake Paine
After successful debut albums from Wale and Diamond District in 2009, D.C. Juan hopes that 2010 will prove to be a continuation of awareness for Hip Hop in Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia. Speaking with HipHopDX.com last week, the creator of recent hit "Lookie Looky" firstly debunked the confusion that his name represents his location. "I like to present myself as a person, and not a state. I got so much love for DMV. I love DC, that's where I live at. But the 'D.C.' in my name is actually just an abbreviation of my government," said the man born Maurice Don Campbell. With the moniker Don Juan already copyrighted, D.C. Don Juan was born.
"I love the state of DC music, from the beginning," continued Juan, citing both Wale and label-mate Raheem DeVaughn. "I think it's my turn. What I think I bring to the table from DC is being on the outside looking in."
In fact, D.C. Don Juan approached the city as an outside. Born and raised in The Bronx, the New Yorker moved south with his mother at the age of 12. "My mother wanted me to get out of the [environment] I was in, which was The Bronx, New York. She wanted a better view of life for me. [My uncle] lived in Maryland, so we always used to come out to the DMV when I was a child. She told me when I finished junior high school that she wanted me to [begin] high school with a fresh start in new surroundings." Through being an initial outside, Don gravitated towards family, and thus rapping. "I came to DC knowing not one person, so the outlook on things was that I had to keep myself entertained." Citing his mom's youngest brother as a role model, the teen admits he,"didn't need any friends in DC 'cause I had my family with me. [My uncle] instilled rapping in me." The extended family unit moved to the Capitol Heights region of the Maryland. "Music was a way of me gaining notoriety."
The notoriety came when the 17 year-old high school graduate caught the attention of then-Denver Nuggets Small Forward Demarr Johnson in 2005. " I didn't even know [him] when he bought my [plane] ticket to come out to Denver. He just knew that I was an emcee trying to do my thing from the city, and he flew me out there." Once there, D.C. Don Juan says he just stayed. In that environment, Don was taken under the wing of several NBA stars who often run in Hip Hop circles. [Allen] Iverson got traded to Denver, so I built a core with Allen and Carmelo [Anthony], and these aren't just people that play basketball, these are the big hitters in basketball. I was blessed. I feel like God had this planned out for me all along."
Asked about what his tenure in the Rocky Mountain State taught him, Don quickly points out, "It taught me the game quick...I'm driving Bentleys, I'm driving Maseratis, wearing expensive jewelry, and this is all before my stardom. Chillin' with them gave me the exposure; everybody wanted to know, 'who is this guy?'" Still, in a culture that often blurs the line between material accomplishments and skills, the Bronx cancels any notions of grandeur, claiming, "In our world, that's perpetrating." The cars and the jewels were borrowed, admits the emcee who emphasizes his pride in his manners and humility. "The art of music to me is the art of basketball to them, so we share the same dream." Bringing it full circle, D.C. Don Juan looks at his early 2010 success and claims, "'Lookie Looky' is the dream."
What may be even more interesting is that the just-released video single is just one of over 4,000 songs the early twenty-something rapper has recorded. Explaining the feat that could humble both 2Pac and Lil Wayne's productivity, Don says, "I'm a very intelligent child. I could have gone to school for computers, 'cause I know computers hands-on. So I built my own studio at a young age. Every morning, I'd wake up, I would do a song. I'd cut school to come home and do a song. I'd stay up doing songs. That's all I wanted to do. The songs just kept on coming, and 4,000 songs came like nothin'. Now, to tell you the truth, Jake, it's work ethic to me. I don't like to chill out. I don't like to party, unless there's a cause. I don't like to do anything but remain working in the studio. That's my life."
Looking towards his album, the man who previously worked with Polow Da Don says he hopes Battery Records will allow for summer release. That life of recording will focus on positive music. Comparing his refuge relocation in D.C. as a adolescent, Don says, "I'm not gonna talk about the bad things in my life, I'd rather glorify the good things in my life." More than that, having already gripped the wood grain wheels of a Bentley and wore thousands around his neck, Don Juan distances himself from the rapper stereo-type. Again citing his manners and upbringing, he denotes, "I'm not like a rapper, although I rap."
From HipHopDX.com
http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10516/title.dc-don-juan-talks-about-lookie-looky-says-hes-recorded-4000-songs
Lookie Looky Video
