Styles P: I’m Not A Rapper Anymore, I'm an MC
After lukewarm sales of his latest album, Time Is Money, D-Block’s Styles P has officially left Ruff Ryders/ Interscope, however in an interview with MTV he was quick to point out that the LOX are still signed to Ruff Ryders as group. Styles expressed disdain for the label that delayed his LP several times over a three year period only to finally drop the project without support of a video or proper single upon it’s release in late 2006. Styles explained the split was amicable and he is currently fielding offers from several major and independent labels and is ready to immediately drop another album in 2007. "I guess it's hard to market me," he said. "I may rap one way one day and make 'I'm Black,' then another way another day and make 'Favorite Drug.' I had to spread my wings and do what I do. You can look to hear from me hard in March or April. I will be right back. I haven't thought of an album title yet. I'm still smoking and pondering on it. But I'm the Phantom now; the Ghost is over with. If you're my friend, you can call me the Ghost. But as far as MCing … and don't call me a rapper no more. Call me an MC."
Kanye Aiming At Grown And Sexy On New LP
Well we’re all getting older I guess. First Jay-Z drops his adult contemporary and now Kanyeezy. Truthfully, I thought I wouldn’t have to listen to anymore Coldplay after my ex-girlfriend split but guess what, wrong again. Kanye West has enlisted the help of Coldplay frontman Chris Martin for the first single off of his new LP Graduation. The LP is slated for a 2nd Quarter ’07 release on Def Jam. In other WTF news, Kanye is slated to remix a track for fellow Chi-City natives Fall Out Boy, who are also featuring Jay-Z and production from Babyface on their new LP.
Spend Valentines Day W/ DJ Neil Armstrong
DJ Neil Armstrong is no stranger to getting the ladies wet with his turntable skils. Oscillate Wildly is still the ultimate 80s banger for any boombox having party host. For Valentines Day though, Neil wanted to give you a chance to up your game a little. This is the Limited Edition Warmfuzzy gift set. Only 500 of them will be made, and the boxes will be hand numbered by Mr. Armstrong himself. Once they're gone, they gone. Included in each Boxset is a copy of Warmfuzzy - AOK Part 1 and a limited edition Warmfuzzy Ladies Thong, all housed in an ill jewelry gift box, with gold foil embedded printing to bring it all together in a nice little classy package. If your significant other is a music fan, then this is everything you need for Valentine's day. We’re going to try to convince Neil to let us carry a few of these when he comes up to Boston this weekend for UGHH.com’s Fresh Produce Party. The party goes down at the Goodlife Lounge, Saturday 1/27 @ 9PM. Of course it’s free, so get there early (it’s cold outside).
Twista Links With Lil' Wayne & Just Blaze For New CD
Twista is set to release his 7th studio album entitled Adrenaline Rush 2010 this summer.
The unnamed album, which is a follow-up to 2005's platinum-selling The Day After, features guest appearances from Lil' Wayne, Snoop Dogg, Pharell, Cee-Lo Green, Saigon and fellow Chicagoan R. Kelly. The disc is also rumored to include a collaboration between Twista and one-time rival act, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. The two have traded diss records in the past after both claiming to have originated the rapid-fire, staccato flow that they are known for, but have since squashed their beef.
The disc's production will be primarily handled by long time collaborator The Lengendary Traxter and will also feature production from Just Blaze and Toxic.
"Danger!" Mystikal Released From Prison
Jermaine Dupri, Air Force 25, Turf Talk, C-Rayz Walz
Producer Jermaine Dupri is in negotiations with Universal Music Group (UMG) about joining the Island Def Jam label as an executive The New York Post reported today (Jan. 25). The deal would reunite Dupri with Island Def Jam's CEO/Chairman, Antonio "L.A." Reid. Reid enjoyed success distributing Dupri's So So Def label, when it was distributed by Arista from 2000-2005. Dupri stepped down as President of Urban Music at Virgin Records, after disappointing sales of various artists, including Janet Jackson's comeback album 20 Y.O.
Nike will celebrate launch of the Air Force 25 in its birth place of Baltimore, MD. tonight (Jan. 25) at the Downtown Locker Room in Mondawmin Hall at 7 p.m. The lavish event will commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Air Force 1 and will unveil the new Air Force 25. The event, which is open to the public, will be hosted by Big Tigger and will feature performances by Juelz Santana and DJ Biz Markie. Cast Members for HBO's The Wire will also be in attendance.
West Coast rapper Turf Talk and Sick Wid It Records are set to release West Coast Vaccine (The Cure) April 3, an album the rapper hopes will be a revitalization for the entire west coast. The release follows Turf Talk's albums The Street Novelist and the Turf Talk Brings The Hood. Turf Talk's famed cousin and mentor, E-40, will appear on the album. E-40 plans to release Turf Talk's album and other artists under his Sick Wid It record label.
C-Rayz-Walz is releasing The Dropping featuring Rahzel, Breeze, Poison Pen, 4th Pyramid, The Blizzard and others. The album is Walz's first release on the underground indie label Urchin Studios and includes the track "Childhood" featuring Matisyahu and Kosha Dillz. Only crafting 3,000 copies of the album will be produced and distributed and there will be no reprints. Walz has gained famed as an artist on the Definitive Jux record label and has worked with notable artists like Aesop Rock, Immortal Technique and Ghostface Killah.
Jay-Z Stars In Bud Light Superbowl Commercial
While former rapper Kevin Federline may miss the chance to appear in a Superbowl XLI commercial this year due to the controversial content of his advertisement, fans of rap can take solace in seeing superstar Jay-Z instead.
Over 90 million viewers will see Jay-Z square off with former Miami Dolphins coach Don Shula in a new commercial for Bud Light. The two men engage in a chess-like high tech football game that uses holographic imagery.
The Bud spot is part of Jay-Z's new partnership with St. Louis-based brewer Anheuser-Busch, which was announced in Oct. 2006.
The rapper, born Shawn Carter, is co-brand director for Budweiser Select and works with the company on marketing programs and advertising development.
The NFL's Superbowl, which is the most watched media event of the year, will be broadcast on CBS on Feb. 4 at 6 p.m., live from Dolphin Stadium in Miami Gardens, FL.
This year, the Indianapolis Colts will face the Chicago Bears in a landmark game, which will feature not just one, but two African-American head coaches competing for the NFL championship for the first time in history.
One of the coaches, either the Colts' Tony Dungy or the Chicago Bears' Lovie Smith, will also enter into the history books as the first African-American to win an NFL championship ring.
"Being the first black coach to lead this team, of course our players knew about it and they wanted to help us make history," Smith told NFL.com. "So I feel blessed to be in that position."
"It means a lot," Dungy said shortly after the Colts beat New England 38-34, in a classic hair raising AFC championship game. "I'm very proud of being an African-American. I'm very proud of Lovie [Smith]."
Meanwhile, Federline's hopes to appear in a Superbowl commercial may be spiked.
A new Nationwide Mutual Insurance ad which features Federline dreaming of being a rapper while working in a fast food restaurant may be boycotted by the National Restaurant Association.
Nationwide planned to unveil the ad during Super Bowl XLI, but may be forced to pull the advertisement, which the head of the National Restaurant Association labeled demeaning.
"Should an ad of this nature run during the Super Bowl, we will make sure that our membership -- many of whom are customers of Nationwide -- know the negative implications this ad portrays of the restaurant industry,” National Restaurant Association president and CEO Steven C. Anderson wrote in a letter.
Snoop Dogg Pleads Not Guilty To Weapons Charge
Rap star Snoop Dogg pleaded not guilty to various weapons charges in a Santa Ana, CA court through his attorney yesterday (Jan. 24).
Snoop Dogg was arrested on suspicion of weapons charges in Sept. 2006, when security guards found a collapsible, 53 inch baton in one of Snoop Dogg's carry on bags as the rapper was enroute to San Francisco.
Snoop Dogg told officers that the baton was a prop for a movie he was filming.
If convicted, the rapper faces up to three years in prison.
In Oct., the rapper was arrested at Bob Hope Airport in Burbank, CA on suspicion of drug and gun possession, after police searched his car and recovered a small amount of marijuana and a loaded handgun.
In Nov., Snoop Dogg and two associates were was arrested yesterday in Burbank, CA, after a performance on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.
Snoop, 35, was stopped by officers as he pulled out of NBC studios after the performance and arrested when police recovered a handgun and small amounts of marijuana and cocaine in the vehicle.
While police have yet to file charges in the Oct. and Nov. incidents, the cases are under review according to a spokesman for the Los Angeles County District Attorney's office.
If convicted, the rapper faces up to three years in prison. Snoop Dogg is currently touring Canada with rapper Ice Cube.
K-Fed Super Bowl Ad Offends National Restaurant Association
Kevin Federline can add another name to his list of detractors.
The 28-year-old rapper and former husband of pop singer Britney Spears has come under fire by the National Restaurant Association for his role in a new Nationwide Mutual Insurance ad, which seemingly paints a negative image of the restaurant industry and its workers.
The ad, which Nationwide plans to unveil a week before its official debut Feb. 4 during this year’s Super Bowl, features Federline rapping in a slick music video only to appear later daydreaming while working as a french-fry maker at a rundown fast-food restaurant.
News of the clip has drawn the ire of National Restaurant Association president and CEO Steven C. Anderson, who expressed “serious concerns” about the ad in a letter to Nationwide’s CEO, Jerry Jurgensen.
“We hope that these reports are inaccurate and that Nationwide will not be airing such an ad that would give the impression that working in a restaurant is demeaning and unpleasant,” Anderson wrote in his letter, dated Monday (Jan. 22). “An ad such as this would be a strong and a direct insult to the 12.8 million Americans who work in the restaurant industry.”
The Federline ad is the latest in a string of Nationwide "Life Comes at You Fast" promotions, which have debuted during the Super Bowl.
The company showed romance novel coverboy Fabio morphing into an old man in its 2006 Super Bowl, while spotlighting rapper MC Hammer in a 2005 regional ad that showed his belongings being repossessed after his real-life bankruptcy made headlines.
Despite the humorous tone of the ads, Anderson believes the Federline spot could damage the image of the country’s 935,000 restaurants.
“Developing creative concepts that accomplish the marketing strategies for a product should not require denigrating another industry” wrote Anderson, who hoped Nationwide would portray restaurants and its employees more accurately in the future.
“Should an ad of this nature run during the Super Bowl, we will make sure that our membership -- many of whom are customers of Nationwide -- know the negative implications this ad portrays of the restaurant industry,” Anderson said.
While the Association is seeing red, Federline is enjoying the chance to make light of his much talked-about persona.
"It's perfect for Nationwide, and it really works for me. I try not to take myself too seriously," he told USA Today.
Wu-Tang Clan Reunites, Preparing '8 Diagrams'
Wu-Tang Clan's reunion with Loud Records founder Steve Rifkind is official, as the group has announced a new album titled 8 Diagrams, which will hit stores this summer on Rifkind's SRC label, through Universal Records.
8 Diagrams, which is named after a Kung-Fu epic, is the the first new album from Wu-Tang Clan in six years.
The album will feature RZA, GZA, Method Man, Raekwon the Chef, Ghostface Killah, Inspektah Deck, Masta Killa and U-God, all original members of the Wu-Tang Clan.
The new album will also contain an unreleased performance that will show fans why deceased group member Ol' Dirty Bastard "was considered one of the illest MCs ever," before dying of a heart attack in Nov. 2004.
“This is the perfect time for us to come back, the stars are aligned,” RZA said. “It’s like when we first started with Steve. We put out real hip-hop at a time when it was turning into pop or R&B. We brought the focus back to the music in its rawest form, without studio polish or radio hooks.”
RZA founded the group with GZA and the late Ol' Dirty Bastard, who is memorialized on the song “Life Changes."
The group has released several groundbreaking albums including Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) (1993), Wu-Tang Forever (1997) and 2001's Iron Flag.
According to the RZA, the new album will be a "conjunction of creative and corporate thinking by the whole group.”
“People want something that gives them an adrenaline rush,” RZA continued. “We’re here to supply that fix. How could hip-hop be dead if Wu-Tang is forever? We’re here to revive the spirit and the economics and bring in a wave of energy that has lately dissipated.”
The reunion with Rifkind comes as the seasoned music industry veteran is enjoying a banter year.
Akon's SRC/Universal sophomore release Konvicted was recently certified platinum, after five weeks of being on the shelves.
“The energy is just like it was, and it’s needed in our industry same as back then,” Rifkind said. “Over the last few years, the group has developed a whole new fan base of 20-year-olds and even younger who’ve never even seen them play.”
Former President's Hometown Seeks To Ban Sagging Jeans, Shorts
Sagging may be the norm in the world of rap, but the trend may see an early end if some residents of a small southwest Georgia town have their way.
The Associated Press reports that people in Plains, GA., are up at arms over seeing the underwear of young people who are wearing their pants and shorts low.
So much so that members of the Plains City Council plan on asking the town’s attorney to look into whether they have the authority to regulate sagging.
Plains is best known as the hometown of former President Jimmy Carter, the nation’s 39th Commander in Chief.
Protesters of sagging believe those who engage in the trend could ward off some of the 68,000 tourists who visit Plains each year. The town boasts a population of 600,
“To have a lot of young men walking around like that it creates a bad image of the place," said Plains City Councilman and anti-sagging campaign leader Eugene Edge. "We don't want to infringe on anyone's rights, but ... nobody wants to look at your rear end. I don't think it's too much to ask for a person to wear their pants above their butts."
Sagging pants and shorts have become popular among rappers, who have advocated the trend in videos, concerts and public appearances. Rap fans soon followed suit as youth adapted the style and made it their own.
Nevertheless, officials have tried to ban sagging. Although attempts by schools in Columbus, OH, Kittery, ME, and Red Bluff, CA have been initiated, other efforts ban sagging have met with failure, according to the AP, which cited a case in which “droopy drawers” legislation won approval in the Virginia House in 2005.
Senators later rejected the proposal, saying international news reports on the bill had embarrassed the state.
A similar bill was turned down in 2004 by Louisiana lawmakers after warnings that the bill would make the state a laughing stock. The situation has yet to be addressed in Dallas, TX, where the city attorney was asked to look into a ban by city officials.
As for Plains, the town's attorney, Jimmy Skipper, revealed that he hasn't explored the legality of the ban.
Upcoming Producer Disco D Commits Suicide, Friends React
Upcoming producer David "Disco D" Shayman committed suicide today (Jan. 23) sources told AllHipHop.com.
The producer, who hailed from Ann Arbor MI, came to prominence as a DJ on the Detroit/Ann Arbor Hip-Hop/club scene.
Disco D was behind a number of Hip-Hop hits, including 50 Cent's "The Ski Mask Way" Nina Sky's "Turnin' Me On" and Kevin Federline's single "Papazao."
Additionally, he created music for commercials (Best Buy, Sprite) and awards shows (VH1's Hip Hop Honors, Nickelodeon's Kids Choice Awards).
He had recently launched a Brazilian urban label called Gringo Louco which counted rap group Braza as artists on the label.
"We were good friends," DJ Vlad told AllHipHop.com. "I lived with him in Brazil for a couple weeks. We both had a love for that place. I just talked to him a couple days ago. It tore me up when I heard he died."
DJ Vlad's sentiments were echoed by a number of DJ's, producers artists and journalists that knew the producer, who was just 27-years-old.
Houston, TX rapper Chamillionaire revealed that Disco D had just landed a track on his upcoming album Ultimate Victory as well.
"I saw that he sent a website message a couple days ago to me and I replied before I left for the studio," Chamillionaire told AllHipHop.com in a statement. "I got back late and saw that he was excited about the news that one of his tracks was making it on Ultimate Victory, considering the fact that he didn't make it on my first album. I told him that Lil Wayne was putting his verse on the song and sent him my number so that he could contact me directly if he needed to. We were in the process of negotiation with his management and lawyers but a situation as tragic as this makes me not even want to think about discussing any music or contracts. I send my condolences to his family and loved ones. I hope he rests in heavenly peace."
Journalist and Queens Reigns Supreme author Ethan Brown knew Disco D since the mid-1990's, when he was just a teen, at the beginning of his career
"He was a turntable prodigy and an up-and-coming producer in Detroit's 'ghetto-tech' scene," Brown told AllHipHop.com. "I was stunned by his talent and wrote a long piece about him--and the ghetto tech scene--for Details Magazine in 1998. I had huge hopes for Disco D and he fulfilled them in every way when he moved to New York and went on to produce tracks like 50 Cent's 'Ski Mask Way.' I'm stunned and incredibly saddened by the loss of a great friend--and an incredible producer who had such a promising future ahead of him."
West coast veteran DJ Warrior had also spoken to Disco D just prior to his death.
"I got a lot memories with that dude." DJ Warrior told AllHipHop.com. "He is the most genuine person I have met in this crazy music industry, he was going through a lot financial problems. A lot of people owed him money, and never paid him. We just talked about all these problems he was having. I was working helping him move which was planned for this spring. I guess once finances started hitting from every angle, it was really bothering him."
DJ Warrior revealed that the producer was also distraught over breaking up with his fiancee.
"I clearly remember telling him, 'Dogs, we go through things in life, just pray to God and things will get better, and you are gonna be in L.A. and we will get things going.' In New York City, he really didn't have many close friends that he trusted. God bless his soul, and condolences to his family. This is someone that I have the utmost respect for, he is one of my best friends and we had big plans we were working on, but we will miss him, I never thought I would lose another real friend I had in this business this soon. I am shocked."
Disco D. had recently been diagnosed as bi-polar and he was also suffering from depression.
According to statistics, those who suffer from the illness are 20 times more likely to commit suicide than then general population.
"I can't believe this has happened to such a high-energy forward moving person," DJ Strong added. "He had so much to look to in the future and I met him through his business and friendship with Warrior. I can remember him drinking tea all night when we all went to a white party in Hollywood. That's the kind of dude he is, just a simple and real human being. Disco D we will miss you. I hope this is a hoax."
According to family members, services for Disco D will be held later this week in Ann Arbor, MI.
To post your respects, visit http://www.myspace.com/gringolouco.
Rawkus, Naledge Team With Voxonic To Translate Single
As technology continues to play an increasing role in the way that music is delivered to consumers, technology Voxonic Inc. and Rawkus Records have announced that they will release a single from rap artist, Naledge, using software which transforms voices into foreign languages.The single will be selected from Naledge’s forthcoming album Naledge is Power which features production from Just Blaze, 9th Wonder and Pete Rock.“Voxonic’s ability to customize voice for web and mobile applications has a huge appeal and is certainly a great business in 2007,” said Brian Brater, Co-founder of Rawkus Records. “We anticipate Voxonic enabling Naledge to reach a wider audience than the typical artist can.”Naledge, born Jabari Evans, has been selected to serve as the test client for this new partnership and will have his entire album translated in various languages.Through Voxonic’s technology, Naledge’s album can be converted into more than 1,400 different languages with 99% accuracy of the original speaker’s voice. The new partnership is expected to provide significant exposure to audiences abroad for Rawkus, which is known for breaking many underground Hip-Hop acts including Talib Kweli, Mos Def and Common. “It’s exciting to see various music artists break international barriers, which can ultimately reverse the decline of record sales," stated Arie Deutsch, President of Voxonic Inc. “With Voxonic’s technology, record labels, independent artists and music franchises can expect to see a steady increase in sales.” Naledge is Power is set to hit stores later this year.
'Gayngsta' Rapper Deadlee Headlines Homo Hip-Hop Tour, Disses Eminem, DMX, 50 Cent
Popular Los Angeles based gay rapper Deadlee has announced that he will headline what is being billed as the first ever organized regional tour of gay, lesbian and bisexual rap & Hip-Hop artists.
Billed as the Homorevolution Tour 2007, the ten-city trek will feature a variety of popular gay and lesbian MC's, including Johnny Dangerous, Delacruz, Melange Lavonne, Salvimex, Bigg Nugg and JFP.
Covering five states, the tour is set to launch in San Diego in March.
"The HomoRevolution Tour is a direct challenge to the old status quo in Hip-Hop," Deadlee told AllHipHop.com. "Times are changing and if openly gay rappers aren't invited then we are kicking the door in - and inviting ourselves...we are taking the mic. It's our turn too."
Deadlee, born Joseph Lee, has grabbed headlines in publications like The New York Daily News, The Advocate, LA Weekly, Urb, instinct and others, with sexually charged music referred to as "Homohop"and "Gayngsta" rap.
The self-described "Queer Bastard Child of DMX & Lil Kim," has also contributed his music to a series of motion picture soundtracks including On the Down Low and Vengeance. He was also the focus of a reality show on LGBT television network Logo, called Hip-Hop Homos.
In the traditional nature of Hip-Hop, his music confronts some of the industry's biggest rappers, including Eminem, DMX, and 50 Cent.
"Eminem was called out for his juvenile, hateful approach to homosexuality, especially in his song 'Criminal,' [The Marshall Mathers LP]" Deadlee said. "He was the biggest rapper at the time and if he used the same song as a diss to Blacks or Latinos, he would probably be dead. Eminem likes to pick on the 'weak' but gay[z] aint weak and he might be a f*g himself. He knew all the subcultures in that song."
Deadlee, who was born in Denver but calls Los Angeles home, also has issues with DMX's constant use of the word fa**ot and his references to "homo thugs."
"I find it crazy when his videos are very homoerotic," Deadlee said. "All the guys kicking it with their shirts off!"
Deadlee saved his harshest criticism for rap's biggest superstar, Queens, NY rapper 50 Cent.
In April 2004, 50 Cent made international headlines when Playboy published an article with the rapper expressing his views on homosexuality.
"I ain't into fa**ots," 50 Cent told Playboy. "I don't like gay people around me, because I'm not comfortable with what their thoughts are. I'm not prejudiced. I just don't go with gay people and kick it - we don't have that much in common. I'd rather hang out with a straight dude. But women who like women, that's cool."
"F*ck him. I don't like ignorant b**ches around me, so he can suck my gun," Deadlee stated. "He is a classic man who had Homo-feelings and chooses to lash out because he is afraid he might act out on his true feelings. 50 Cent has deep rooted homosexual tendencies."
Deadlee will host Logo's NewNowNext, which airs Feb. 4.
Below are the tentative dates for the Homorevolution Tour 2007:
March 29: San Diego, CAMarch 30: Los Angeles, CAMarch 31: Las Vegas, NVApril 1: Phoenix, AZApril 2: Albuquerque, NMApril 3: El Paso, TXApril 5: San Antonio, TXApril 6: Houston, TXApril 7: Austin, TXApril 8: Dallas, TX
Rap Group The Clipse Hits The Road To Support New Orleans Rebuilding Effort
Virginia-based rap duo The Clipse will take center stage at this year's Seagram's Live concert tour. The critically-acclaimed group is slated to appear Wednesday (Jan. 24) at the Seagram's Live preview in New York's Webster Hall, to perform songs from their latest album Hell Hath No Fury. The tour officially kicks off April 7 in Memphis, TN. The Clipse is the latest act to headline the tour, which has featured past performers such as Mary J. Blige, Jaheim, Jagged Edge, Lil' Mo, Cee-Lo Green and Tweet. Funds raised from the event, which is noted for supporting community issues such as housing, job training and adult education, will benefit the rebuilding efforts in New Orleans in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. Other stops include New Orleans, Atlanta, Birmingham, Jackson, Detroit, Washington, DC, New York, Fort Bragg and Tampa as the tour concludes April 29 in Miami.
Mele Mel Pursues WWE Career, Expanding Businesses
Although he is revered in Hip-Hop circles, Mele Mel is planning to make an impact of a different kind in the world of professional wrestling. The rapper, who was recently inducted to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, will attempt to become the latest champion in Vince McMahon's World Wrestling Entertainment. "I'm going to try and get some of John Cena's money [current WWE champ] and get with the WWE to do my thing," Mele Mel told AllHipHop.com "I went to the wrestling school over the summer and picked up a little bit of moves. I wanted to see if it was something that I wanted to do, other than just dreaming of wanting to be a wrestler. It's a little rough, but it's something that can be done." The WWE venture is among a string of opportunities Mele Mel is capitalizing on. The rapper is currently involved in the creation of a children's book and fitness video, as well as a new album titled Muscles from his record label Big Guns Records. Mele Mel is also the co-owner of the Sedgwick & Cedar clothing line, which also counts pioneers like Afrika Bambaataa, Sha Rock, Grandmaster Caz, Busy Bee, Kool Herc and others as proprietors. "It's just another feather under the cap and putting as many companies and businesses under the umbrella because you have to forge an empire," Mele Mel said of the clothing line. "It's just another way of us expressing ourselves and getting by on a financial level. We don't do the big number as Phat Farm or Rocawear as of yet, but the impact is there." The Sedgwick and Cedar line represents one way for veteran Hip-Hop artists to remain relevant in a culture that caters to the young, according to Mele Mel. "Once people see us on the same playing field as everyone else, they don't look at us like we're a bunch of old guys," the rapper said. "It's like we're selling clothes over here, they're selling clothes over there, and they love us." Mele Mel is optimistic about the success of his ventures. Still, the rapper feels the current generation of emcees has already counted their predecessors out. "Younger cats try to put us in a has-been position. You can't turn a legend into a has-been because he has too many roots," Mele Mel said. "He might not be doing it now, but he's done it so long and so good that he is what he is. When Mele Mel walks in the room, or Kool Herc or Kurtis Blow or Doug E. Fresh, it's undeniable. It's just a certain vibe and certain respect that never goes nowhere. We need to [be more business minded] on our own so we'll have more respect from the industry as artists and businessmen instead of [people saying] them cats are from back in the day and they're bitter.' All that's corny anyway."
Florida Promoters Sue Lil' Wayne Over Missed Concert
Rapper Lil' Wayne has been hit with a lawsuit by a Tampa Bay based promotions company, claiming the rapper missed a concert date and has refused to reschedule the performance. The Associated Press reports that the lawsuit was filed Friday (Jan. 19) in Miami-Dade County Circuit Court. According to the lawsuit, Lil' Wayne, 24, signed a contract with Nunoise Entertainment and Jahfari Promotions to at a Tampa nightclub last October. The rapper missed the event and returned a $15,000 deposit, but the companies claim the rapper still owes $45,000 for canceling the show and is obligated to schedule another performance. The lawsuit also alleges that promoters lost more than $200,000 due to Lil' Wayne's cancellation of the show.Representatives for Lil' Wayne were not available to comment as of press time.
Paid Dues Lineup Confirmed!
Earlier this week, we reported that Paid Dues was returning. Now, it is official. Murs and Guerrilla Union have put together the independant Hip-Hop festival once again. On Thursday, the line up was finally unveiled.
Here are the acts set to take the stage at Paid Dues 2007.
FELT (Slug and Murs)
Pigeon John
Sage Francis
Cage
Mr. Lif
Evidence (of Dilated Peoples)
Devin The Dude
Los Nativos
Mr. Len
DJ Maji
However, that is not all. There are more artists that should be confirmed in the coming months. This will all lead up to the big event on March 24th. Pre-Sale tickets will be available February 2nd.
Q-Tip To Drop 2 Albums in '07
Former A Tribe Called Quest frontman Q-Tip has been quiet for too long, but 2007 should put an end to all that. Tip is gearing up for a pair of solo albums this year, leading with his Universal Motown release of The Renaissance.
You can expect another change in sound from Q-Tip, as he recorded the album with a “hip-hop band.” "I wanted a hip-hop sonic feel, something pure to the sound of hip-hop with real drums, real emotion and people taking solos," he told Billboard. "In that sense this record feels like we're moving in a new direction ... something hip-hop should do."
While it’s a safe bet that the album wasn’t complete, September saw a mysterious Tip album called Open leak on the Internet. Clearly backed by a band and featuring Andre 3000, Common and D’Angelo – the very same guests slated to appear on The Renaissance – it seems as if the cat is out of the bag.
Speaking of leaked, yet-to-be-released albums, his shelved 2001 album Kamaal The Abstract will get an official release this year, equipped with some bonus tracks. No release date for either has been given yet.
The Underground Report
Def Jux fans can take a sigh f relief. El-P’s new album is done. I’ll Sleep When You’re Dead is a project he has been blogging about for some time and it is highly anticipated by his fans. With some help from Mr. Dibbs and an appearance on MTV’s I’m From Rolling Stone, the buzz has grown and it’s sure to hit fans with what they have been waiting for. Recently, El-P spoke about it and let out a release date: March 20, 2007.
Sean Price also has a new album on its way. It’s coming sooner rather than later. Expect Jesus Price Supastar to land in store shelves January 30th. As expected, the album features about half of the production handled by 9th Wonder and Khrysis. Guests include Phonte, Sadat X and Buckshot. It will be released via Duckdown Records and a tour with Jedi Mind Tricks will be done to back this LP.
The Quannum Records family is getting ready for a big 2007. Lateef is working on a solo album which may get released late in ’07. He is also recording an LP with Blackalicious’ Gift of Gab. Their label mate Pigeon John is currently touring and will work on a new album soon. Lyrics Born is also working on a new album as we speak.
Enough of the future, though. It’s time for the present. Quannum act Lifesavas is releasing Gutterfly on April 24th. That album will include guest spots from Smif-N-Wessun, deadprez and Camp-Lo among others. So, get ready.
Finally, Rhymesayers Entertainment acts have a lot in store as well. Brother Ali’s album (featuring production from the ever clever Ant) is set to be unleashed to the public on April 10th. The album, which includes tracks such as Truth Is, Faheem and Freedom Ain’t Free, is a follow up to 2004’s The Champion EP and 2003’s critically acclaimed Shadows on the Sun.
Fellow RSE MC’s Mac Lethal and P.O.S. are currently on tour. They are scheduled to hit these venues through February 3, 2007.
1/25- Mesa, AZ @ Hollywood Alley1/26- Los Angeles, CA @ Knitting Factory1/27- San Francisco, CA @ Bottom of the Hill2/01- Madison, WI @ Annex2/02- Chicago, IL @ Abbey Pub2/03- Bloomington, IN @ Rhinos
More RSE news? Yes. Atmosphere will make an appearance on the aforementioned I’m From Rolling Stone show on MTV. The airdate is said to be February 4th.
The Game Cancels Shows In Canada, Africa
Superstar rapper The Game has canceled a series of concert dates in Luanda, Africa, according to local promoters.
The rapper was scheduled to land in the country today (Jan. 22) to perform at the Atlantico Cinema on Saturday (Jan. 27) and Sunday (Jan. 28), but the concerts have been postponed.
According to promoters with the Angola Show Agency, The Game, born Jayceon Taylor, but pulled out of the concerts at the last minute, allegedly due to scheduling conflicts.
Organizers said that they plans to bring the Compton, CA native back to Luanda at the end of January or in February and that refunds were available to fans who purchased tickets for the canceled show.
The cancellation comes on the heels of The Game postponing a tour of Canada, due to pending legal issues.
An arrest warrant was issued for the rapper in New York City on Jan. 16, after he failed to attend a court hearing related to an incident last November, when he was arrested and charged with impersonating a police officer.
Below are the remaining canceled Canadian shows:
Jan. 22: Corral Entertainment Complex in CalgaryJan. 23: Edmonton Events CentreJan. 25: Croatian Cultural Centre in VancouverJan. 25: Phish Night Club in Vancouver
Common To Launch Soji Hat Line In New York
Chicago rapper Common will officially launch his new Soji line of hats on Wednesday (Jan. 23) in New York.
Common, along with invited guests Jamie Foxx, Alicia Keys, Jeremy Piven and others, will preview the high-end hats, which will be sold exclusively at La Coppola Storta stores, a trendy retailer with locations in Palermo, Roma, Firenze, Bologna, and New York City's SOHO district.
“I love hats man, I been wearing them for so long and people always ask me where I get my hats from. So, why not just design something," Common told AllHipHop.com in a previous interview. "I want to keep it high-end and quality on the hat side.”
The rapper also explained how the high-end hat line received its unique name. "[Soji] is my next door neighbor’s name and I love that name,” Common revealed.
Common, born Lonnie Rashied Lynn, is also preparing for his first major theatrical release as the character "Sir Ivy" in the Mob movie Smokin Aces, which is due out Jan. 26 and stars Ray Liotta, Alicia Keys, Andy Garcia and Jeremy Piven.
In addition to finishing his seventh album Finding Forever, Common is also starring in the upcoming film, American Gangster, which stars Denzel Washington, Russell Crowe, RZA, T.I., John Ortiz and others.
In related news, Common, Everclear and Satellite Party will give a free performance during ESPN's Winter X Games, which take Jan. 25-28 on Aspen Mountain in Aspen, CO.
Prodigy Links With The Alchemist For Koch Debut, Preps "H.N.I.C. 2"
Prodigy, one half of Queensbridge, NY duo Mobb Deep, is currently gearing for rthe release of his sophomore solo album Return Of The Mac.
Set for release via Koch Records this spring, the album will be produced entirely by The Alchemist. Return Of The Mac will then be followed by the release of the highly anticipated sequel to H.N.I.C. in late 2007.
"Alchemist and I put Return Of The Mac together to get people ready for H.N.I.C.2," Prodigy explained via a statement. "I'm 'bout to turn it up hot with H.N.I.C.2."
"I decided to ride with Koch Records cause I got a lot of shit to do and say, and I know Koch won't hold me back or censor my shit," he continued. "The entire company will push the CDs to the maximum because they truly love and respect my music. We're all very excited about the whole thing."
A video for Return Of The Mac's official single, "Stuck On You," will be shot soon.
Two underground videos for the singles "Mac 10 Handles" and "New York Shit," which will be on Return of The Mac, can currently be viewed at Prodigy's MySpace page.
Return Of The Mac hits shelves on March 27 while a release date for H.N.I.C.2 has yet to be determined.
Prodigy Links With The Alchemist For Koch Debut, Preps "H.N.I.C. 2"
Prodigy, one half of Queensbridge, NY duo Mobb Deep, is currently gearing for rthe release of his sophomore solo album Return Of The Mac.
Set for release via Koch Records this spring, the album will be produced entirely by The Alchemist. Return Of The Mac will then be followed by the release of the highly anticipated sequel to H.N.I.C. in late 2007.
"Alchemist and I put Return Of The Mac together to get people ready for H.N.I.C.2," Prodigy explained via a statement. "I'm 'bout to turn it up hot with H.N.I.C.2."
"I decided to ride with Koch Records cause I got a lot of shit to do and say, and I know Koch won't hold me back or censor my shit," he continued. "The entire company will push the CDs to the maximum because they truly love and respect my music. We're all very excited about the whole thing."
A video for Return Of The Mac's official single, "Stuck On You," will be shot soon.
Two underground videos for the singles "Mac 10 Handles" and "New York Shit," which will be on Return of The Mac, can currently be viewed at Prodigy's MySpace page.
Return Of The Mac hits shelves on March 27 while a release date for H.N.I.C.2 has yet to be determined.
Lil Wayne Weighs In On DJ Drama Raid
"Smarten up," That's what Lil Wayne told MTV news about mixtape DJs. He said of the Aphilliates arrests, "It's a bad thing, but you gotta play the game fair. If you don't play fair, all kind of things can happen. You gotta watch people like DJ Clue, watch people like DJ Khaled. They do it right."The advice from Lil Wayne seems a bit out of place since the two were planning the third album in the trio of Dedication albums that created most of the supreme buzz that Wayne rode through 2006. They had planned to release the third album early in 2007. Street CD's such as Drama's Gangsta Grillz albums have been integral to Weezy's success, especially his success in the mixtape circle.
"You gotta do it right," Wayne said, "It's gonna be a message. [The authorities] ain't playing. They gonna make an example. They gonna straighten the game out. A lot of companies take a fall with those mixtapes. Niggas be caking up off them mixtapes. The artists can drop his album — and everybody knows that hip-hop [album sales are in] decline — nobody ain't gonna buy the album, and everybody gets the mixtapes off of the Internet or whatever way they get it. The artists ain't caking, but the nigga you made the mixtape with is caking up. Thank God I ain't got that problem, but I know a lot of people who do."
A DJ who wished to remain anonymous in case the RIAA was listening or reading, "I think they got a snitch among them . Somebody snitched on them. Drama is working for the down South artists. I don't think he's bootlegging. He's really helping the movement and promoting, especially the new cats. I'm almost sure that 30,000 out of the 50,000 [CDs confiscated in the raid] were new cats that's next to come up. He uses his mixtapes as a promotional marketing tool that was looked at the wrong way. Drama and Cannon were two of the coolest motherfuckas to get ran through like that. They treated them like they was fucking drug kingpins. I was watching it on Fox News, that sh-- was like, 'Get out of there."
Interestingly enough, during the raid police found nothing in terms of drugs or weapons but stated that during confiscations of this variety, they usually find that type of "trouble".
Diplomats head of A&R, DukeDaGod said of the Aphilliates' drama, "This is like D-Day in hip-hop."
"DJ Drama is like our favorite mixtape DJ," he said. "Everybody loves Drama. It's crazy. It's like it's in your own backyard when it comes to Drama. He helps a lot of artists out. It's kinda messed up. I think they're trying to make hip-hop illegal or something. They're trying to make too many regulations on it. This is one of the worst days ever I can remember in hip-hop. I remember when Biggie got shot, when Pac got shot, it was crazy, but this right here is bad because it could determine the future of our music."
DukeDaGod says the fans will be the ones feeling this most, "Why are [the RIAA and FBI] getting involved?" Leave us alone. Let us make our hip-hop. Nobody is dying, nobody is killing nobody. It's just music being made. Everybody is gonna feel it whether you're on the radio, not on the radio. Even if you're a consumer, you gonna feel it, 'cause it's gonna be hard to find certain tapes. Certain people are not going to carry the mixtapes anymore because they know what could happen. It's so many people that wanna hear our stuff. We get e-mails from all over the world. They don't care about the RIAA, they wanna hear some Dipset, they wanna hear some Drama. So it's messed up for the whole world."
Snoop Launches Season 2 Of Hip-Hop Gaming League
Rapper Snoop Dogg and Global Gaming League (GGL) announced the official launch the Hip-Hop Gaming League's second season today (Jan. 18).
The online gaming tournament features 32 of the biggest names in Hip-Hop and professional sports competing for bragging rights and the chance to win the league's championship title.
Snoop Dogg, who is the commissioner of the league, hand picked season two's roster based on their video game skills.
This year newcomers like Lil' Wayne, Birdman, The Clipse, Hi Tek, Warren G., Aaron McGruder, Rick Ross, Lupe Fiasco and Yung Joc will compete against each other, as well as players from season one, which included rappers like David Banner, B-Real, Paul Wall, Murs, Krayzie Bone, producer Fredwreck and others.
Each HHGL player will receive an Xbox 360 and a copy of EA Sports' NCAA 07 Football. The players will battle each other for points to work their way up the tournament ladder.
As the commissioner, Snoop Dogg may add additional games like NBA 2K7, NFL 2K7, Madden NFL 07 or others to spice up the game play.
For the 2007 season, registered gamers with GGL can compete in a parallel league for the chance to compete against one of the rappers at the HHGL finals, which will take place Feb. 16 in Las Vegas.
"This time around, the fans are gonna get into the game, going up against superstars like my main man Eric V, B-Real, David Banner, Lupe Fiasco, Lil Wayne, Warren G, Cobi Jones and so many other brothas I can't even give 'em all shout-outs," Snoop said. "Just play the game, ya dig?"
Spike TV's Game Head television program will cover season two and will run on air specials leading up the HHGL finals in Las Vegas.
"If you want to compete against the best gamers in hip-hop and pro sports, you've got to bring your A-game or just go home," said Ted Owen, Chairman and Founder of the GGL. "Hip-hop music, celebrities, the Internet and gaming are driving and defining the alternative-to-mainstream culture for 14 to 34-year-olds today. It's tough to know which has more influence, but by bringing them all together, the GGL is at the epicenter of this cultural revolution."
The finals will be hosted by Snoop Dogg and will feature a VIP exhibition tournament, two HHGL semi-final matches and the championship match.
The finalists will party with Snoop at the season two wrap party, which will feature live performances by various rappers.
For more information log on: www.hhgl.com.
Ludacris, Mos Def, Kanye, Spoonie Gee
Ludacris, Christina Aguilera, Mary J. Blige, Justin Timberlake and Carrie Underwood have been added to the list of the 49th Annual Grammy Awards, organizers announced today (Jan. 18). Ludacris and company join previously announced performers that includes Gnarls Barkley, Beyonce, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, the Dixie Chicks and others. Presenters during the evening include The Black Eyed Peas, Nelly Furtado, Ciara, Terrence Howard and Samuel L. Jackson. Ludacris was nominated for four Grammy Awards, including Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for "Unpredictable" with Jamie Foxx, Best Rap Performance By A Duo or Group for "Georgia" (with Field Mob and featuring Jamie Foxx), Best Rap Album for Release Therapy and Best Rap Song for "Moneymaker." The 49th Annual Grammy Awards will air live on Sunday, Feb. 11, from the Staples Center in Los Angeles
Actor/rapper Mos Def has been tapped to serve as a juror for the U.S. dramatic film competition at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival. According to The Hollywood Reporter, MOs Def will join director Catherine Hardwicke, director Dawn Hudson, film editor Pamela Martin and actress-director Sarah Polley and others in judging entrees in the documentary competition of the festival, which kicked off yesterday (Jan. 17) in New York and runs until Jan. 28. Winning films in The Sundance Film Festival will be announced Jan. 27 at an awards ceremony at the Park City Racquet Club.
Kanye West, Fergie from the Black Eyed Peas and John Legend are among the artists who will be showcased in the NFL's Pepsi Smash Super Bowl Concert Series, which takes place Feb. 1-2 in South Florida. West, Legend and Fergie will open the two-day concert series on Feb. 1 at 7:00 pm. The evening will be hosted by actor Taye Diggs and taped for for airing on VH1 on Feb. 3. On Feb. 2 at 8:00 PM, latino artists Don Omar, Ivy Queen and Aventura will take to the stage for a concert that will be taped for airing on Telemundo on Feb. 3 as well. The concert series will take place at the Pepsi Smash Concert Arenta, which is next to Dolphin Stadium, where the 41st Annual Superbowl is taking place. Tickets for both concerts are on sale now at www.Ticketmaster.com.
Pioneering record label Tuff City recently launched a chat site, which will feature open dialog with the label's early roster of Hip-Hop artists, which includes Fearless Four, Lakim Shabazz, 45 King and others. The first chat will take place Jan. 22 at 2:00 PM with legendary rapper Spoonie Gee, who released such singles as "Spoonin' Rap" and "The Godfather." According to representatives for Tuff City, the label hopes the chat's will be a part of an ongoing program. The chat room will open 30 minutes early for participants to chat amongst themselves. To participate in the chat, log on to http://www.tuffcity.com/chat.
Asian American Rapper Jin Takes Aim At Rosie O'Donnell
Asian American rapper Jin has released a diss record aimed at talk show host Rose O'Donnell, after O'Donnell host made what many felt were racist comments directed towards Asian Americans last month.
During an episode of ABC's The View, O'Donnell was describing how actor Danny DeVito's drunken appearance on the show had garnered international headlines.
O'Donnell gave an impression of what a Chinese newscaster sounded like when reading the story and claimed that the reporter spoke in nothing but "chings and chongs."
"It's news all over the world," O'Donnell said. "You can imagine in China it's like, 'ching chong, ching chong, Danny DeVito, ching chong, ching chong..."
Jin has responded to O'Donnell's comments with the recently released single, " You're Fired," which features the rapper hurling insults at O'Donnell for her off color comments about Asians.
"I recorded the song basically for the same reason she decided to do her little 'ching chong' bit: that's just how I am," Jin said of the single.
The song, which features Jin rapping over Nas' song "Ether," also interjects clips of Donald Trump commenting on the matter, who states that he would have fired the famous talk show host for her racist remarks.
Trump and O'Donnell are also involved in a bitter feud, after O'Donnell blasted the real estate and television mogul for his decision not fire current Miss USA Tara Conner for questionable behavior, after she won the Miss USA competition.
The Asian American Journalists Association also chastised O'Donnell for her impression, calling the impression "a mockery of the Chinese language."
"The use of the distorted phrases is insulting to the Chinese and Chinese Americans and gives the impression that they are a group that is substandard to English-speaking people," said Rene M. Astudillo, Executive Director of the Asian American Journalists Association. "We find it especially disturbing that this incident comes from a well-loved personality and a television program aired on a respected network."
Jin has also registered a new domain name, abcjin.com and is planning new album titled ABC, which is slated to be released Feb. 20.
Probation Officials Give Foxy Brown Good Report, New CD Hits Stores In Weeks
Probation officials monitoring Foxy Brown gave a good report on the Brooklyn bred rapper in Manhattan Criminal Court yesterday (January 17).
As SOHH previously reported, Foxy (born Inga Marchand) was sentenced to probation and anger management classes this past October, after pleading guilty to assaulting two manicurists in Manhattan's Bloomie Nails in 2004.
Brown told reporters outside the courthouse that the sentence has been good for her "because probation forces you into structure."
"It is making me grow up," Brown explained. "I have matured a lot since I started the anger management."
Brown even had a good word for Judge Melissa Jackson, with whom she had several hostile exchanges before the judge sentenced her to the aforementioned probation and anger management classes.
"This is only the first time in two years that I'm pleased with Judge Jackson," Brown told reporters. "She got an excellent report from probation."
Brown also revealed that her fourth solo album, Black Roses, will hit stores in a few weeks
State Sen. John Sampson, Brown's lawyer, divulged Brown will return to court on March 15th.
At Brown's last court appearance, a lawyer for the city Department of Probation accused her of "flouting the court-ordered conditions of her probation." The lawyer, Shawnda Weinberg, said Brown was asking for "special treatment."
Weinberg suggested to Jackson that Brown might benefit from time in jail, but the judge let her go with a warning to follow probation officials' orders.
Power 105.1 Honors DJ Carl Blaze In All Day Mixathon
In an effort to keep his memory alive, New York City radio station Power 105.1 is set to host an all day tribute to DJ Carl Blaze this Friday.
The tribute will take place from 6 a.m. to midnight this Friday, January 19 in honor of the former Power 105.1 DJ who, as SOHH previously reported, recently passed away after he was shot 13 times by an unknown gunman in uptown Manhattan.
Power 105.1 on-air personalities will be airing calls from artists, friends and fellow DJ's who knew the slain DJ and remember him fondly. Guest DJs including DJ Clue, DJ Red Alert, Tony Touch and Marly Marl will also participate, taking turns mixing on the airwaves in honor of their fallen comrade.
Here is a complete list of DJs who will participate in the tribute:
6-7 a.m. DJ Whuteva
7-8 a.m. DJ Red Alert
8-9 a.m. Tony Touch
9-10 a.m. DJ Kut
10-11 a.m. Marley Marl
11 a.m.-12 p.m. DJ Suss One
12-1 p.m. DJ Red Alert
1-2 p.m. Tony Touch
2-3 p.m. DJ Kut
3-4 p.m. DJ Spinbad
4-5 p.m. DJ Yonny
5-6 p.m. DJ Kut
6-7 p.m. DJ Clue
7-8 p.m. DJ Spinbad
8-9 p.m. DJ Suss One
9-10 p.m. DJ Clue
10-11 p.m. Marley Marl
11-12 a.m. One Hour Carl Blaze Mix
Mixtape Vets Trade "Raid" War Stories, Look To Organize DJ Union
The RIAA-fueled charges against Aphilliates members DJ Drama and DJ Don Cannon have left the mixtape community reeling, but their arrests are just the latest and most publicized. In this SOHH exclusive Marc Ferman and DJ Chuck T talk about their legal battles over mixtapes.
Miami native and current owner of hip-hop clothing site keepitclassic.com, Marc Ferman started selling mixtapes as early as 1993 and moved his business online to mixtape.com in 1998. Business was booming, until one day in November 2000.
"My office door opens, cops comes in, the RIAA comes in, the federal post office inspector comes in, they put me in handcuffs. They froze my bank accounts, they took my money, they confiscated everything. I was watching the news about Drama and it looked very familiar," Ferman told SOHH.
Like DJ's Drama and Cannon, Ferman was only jailed for one night before posting bail, but his legal nightmare would last for six months.
"My lawyer cost a fortune, all my money was taken. I was dealing [with] the labels at the time, they were sending us music to put on the mixtapes, no one backed me on that -- the mixtape DJ's -- I didn't rat them out, but I was still brushed off afterwards. No one really supports each anyone in this business. Once you get pinched you're on your own," Ferman said. "I was the first person in Florida to be charged with what I was charged for. I pleaded no contest, I have no criminal record; it's been expunged. I got one year probation, they kept all the money they seized and I can no longer sell mixtapes."
Two years ago DJ Chuck T was fined by South Carolina police after raids on bootleg operations turned up a number of his mixtapes.
"The RIAA never got involved in my situation. The Goose Creek city police came through, ran up in the spot, seized the CDs and charged us with fraud. In 2005 I was charged with 1 count of fraud for every illegal or pirated CD they found in my possession. Failure to disclose origin of the manufacturer, that's the actual law that they used to levy the fraud charges, that's one of the ways they define pirated CDs," Chuck T revealed.
"It's been a problem since the inception of mixtapes, but a lot of DJ's didn't take it seriously because mainly stores got hit. This is the first time a big DJ who is endorsed by all the record labels has been arrested. DJ's feel like if the stores get hit they'll rather just find another store than take a stand. It's a double-edged sword - we get the music from the labels and the permission from the labels and the record reps to put their labels music on our CDs, but until we get written permission it's not legal. It's a double standard," Chuck T said.
"All it takes is one person to make a complaint. I had a very successful company and within five minutes it was gone. It was hard to see myself shut down as all these other sites popped up, just sitting there watching it, wondering why I was busted and nobody else was," Ferman added
"This thing with DJ Drama was only a matter of time. A store that he sold to could've gotten busted- they could've had his information, phone numbers... Now he just got raided, they took his computers, with all the addresses and phone numbers he might have, the RIAA would have everything they would need to go after whoever they needed to," Ferman said.
DJ Chuck T is hoping to prevent future problems for DJs by organizing a union.
"A lot of the DJ's looked to me to start it, because I was one of the few to be hurt by the law, but we were having trouble finding big name DJs to stand behind it because a lot of them feel like they were above the law. This proves that nobody is safe - one of the key points in the union was getting mixtapes legalized, we know they'd have to be regulated, but we're cool with that. We also want to go about getting mixers and radio DJs fair wages and health benefits. We are still trying to get members for the DJ coalition and anyone that wants to sign up can email DJChuckT@aol.com"
Masta Ace Forms New Group
EMC is a crew you may or may not have heard of. Masta Ace, Stricklin, Wordsworth and Punchline have created this group and they are now prepping their album release. Last year, Words spoke to us about this album and the preparation for it. Now, it seems they have gotten back in the lab and have some more news to share.
Stricklin has updated the group's Myspace with some news on the LP. For starters, the crew is already mixing the LP. It should be out later this year.
Although the group's made up with four critically acclaimed MC's, they have also enlisted some featured acts to help out on the album. Expect appearances from Sean Price. According to Strik, you can also expect Little Brother to appear on a track titled Traffic.
Production for the LP will come from usual suspects such as Ayatollah and Marco Polo.
DJ Drama, DJ Don Cannon Released From Jail
It has confirmed that both DJ Drama and DJ Don Cannon have been released from the Fulton County Jail, where they were held overnight on Tuesday (January 16) on racketeering charges.
The two DJ's were freed on a $100,000 signature bond this afternoon (January 17).
They are set for a second appearance at the Fulton County Court on January 24.
The raid on the Aphillates Music Group’s offices in Atlanta were apparently the result of a partnership with a nationwide joint vice task force working to stop the sale of pirated music.
DJ Drama, born Tyree Simmons and Donald “Don” Cannon, were arrested on felony charges under the Racketeering Influenced Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO).
In a May 2006 report posted on the RIAA’s website, Atlanta was named one of 12 “Piracy ‘Hot Spot’ cities last year, along with Austin, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Providence, San Diego and San Francisco.
The report stated that in 2007, the RIAA would “step up law enforcement training and commit additional investigative resources in all of the cities.”
Meanwhile members of the Mixtape and Internet communities continue to show their support for DJ Drama and Don Cannon, who have become champion for a much debated cause.
A petition supporting the DJ's has received over 200 signatures, since it was started around 11:00 am Wednesday morning.
Fans, fellow DJs, journalists, and even record label executives have all come forth to share their opinions and voice endorsement.
Nate Dogg Claims Suge Knight Owes $10 Million In Back Royalties
Superstar R&B crooner Nathaniel "Nate Dogg" Hale is seeking a legal judgment preventing bankrupt Death Row Records founder Marion "Suge" Knight from discharging an alleged $10 million dollars in back royalties.
In documents released by Court TV's website TheSmokinggun.com, Nate Dogg, born Nathaniel Hale, claims that Knight was the owner and president of Death Row Records.
The complaint claims Knight's other companies, including Suge Music and Suge Publishing are not "separate legal entities from Suge, the individual, or Death Row and are not legal entities at all, and Suge and Death Row are the true identity behind these empty shell identities."
Using these companies, Knight is fraudulently using Death Row Records to acquire and "exploit valuable intellectual property rights" of Nate Dogg through making false statements as to the rapper's contractual status with Death Row.
Additionally, the complaint claims that Nate Dogg was not listed or named on the schedule filed by Knight in bankruptcy court and that Nate Dogg had no knowledge of the deadline a judge set in September of 2006, to file a claim against Knight'.
Nate Dogg claims that his recorded association with Knight began around 1993 (his debut was on Dr. Dre's The Chronic) until the present and that Knight has never accounted to, or paid Nate Dogg the amounts he was entitled for various hit records he released during his association with Death Row Records.
When Nate Dogg inquired about his royalties, he alleges that Knight responded with threats of physical violence, claimed that no profits were generated by Death Row and falsely stated that Nate Dogg would eventually be paid.
As a result Nate Dogg, who has contributed to over 60 chart singles, is seeking no less than $10 million dollars from Knight personally.
In the complaint, attorney's for the singer stated that Nate Dogg can't remember if he ever signed a contract with Knight, but if he did, Knight would have been solely responsible to for receiving, collecting and administering royalties. .
The filing also states that Death Row continuously refuses to provide an accounting of the amount of records sold that featured Nate Dogg.
MC Serch Preps 'Lost' Album
Riding high off the buzz of VH1's hit show ego trip's (White) Rapper Show, MC Serch is planning to release a new LP titled M.any Y.oung L.ives A.go: The 1994 Sessions.
The release is a “lost” album featuring songs that were recorded in 1994 for Def Jam, but were never released commercially. The vintage collection of work will be features seven never before heard MC Serch tracks and three unreleased 3rd Bass cuts recorded in 2000.In the early 1990’s, MC Serch (born Michael Berrin) was a staple in the Hip-Hop community as a member of rap trio 3rd Bass.
In addition to two gold albums and a gold single with 3rd Bass, Serch launched his solo career with the release of his album Return of the Product in 1992.Since retiring from performing Serch has run a promotions company (Serch Light Productions), and hosted Serch In The AM on Detroit Urban Radio Station WJLB from 2003 until March 2006.Serch currently serves as the host of VH1’s reality show ego trip's (White) Rapper Show.
Based in South Bronx, the show features ten white rappers that compete with each other for the chance at winning a $100,000 grand prize.
Prodigy Preps Two New Albums With Koch
Mobb Deep fans will get a double helping of music from one half of the veteran duo as Prodigy gears up for the release of two solo albums.
The first release, titled Return of the Mac, will re-team the Queens lyricist with producer The Alchemist. The beatmaker, who recently worked with Eminem on The Re-Up Mixtape, crafted beats for every song on the album.
Return of the Mac will serve as prelude to Prodigy's next project H.N.I.C.2, an effort in which the rapper vows to "turn it up hot."
Both albums will be released on Koch Records, the rapper added.
"I decided to ride with Koch Records cause I got a lot of sh*t to do and say, and I know Koch won't hold me back or censor my sh*t plus the entire company will push the CDs to the maximum because they truly love and respect my music," Prodigy said. "We're all very excited about the whole thing."
H.N.I.C.2 will be the follow up to Prodigy's gold debut release H.N.I.C., which spawned the hit single "Keep It Thoro."
The albums are the latest musical offerings from Prodigy, who has released a string up albums with his partner Havoc as part of Mobb Deep.
To date, group has sold more than 4 million records.
Plans are currently underway to film a video for "Stuck On You," the first single from Return of the Mac.
Those who can't wait for the clip, can watch videos for two other tracks from the album, "Mac 10 Handles," and "New York Sh*t."
Return of the Mac is scheduled to hit stores March 27, while H.N.I.C.2 is slated to drop later this year.
The following is a tentative tracklisting for Return of the Mac:
1. Intro
2. Return of the Mac
3.Mac 10 Handles
4.Raining Guns and Shanks
5.The Rotten Apple
6.Words From Majesty
7.Take It From The Top
8. Intermission
9. 7th Heaven
10. Bang On Em
11. Nickel and a Nail
12. Legends
13. Stop Fronting
14.Stuck On You
Prodigy (of Mobb Deep) Droppin' New Solo LP This Year
2007 will finally bring us another Prodigy solo LP. Entitled, Return Of The Mac the solo venture will be produced entirely by The Alchemist and is slated to drop March 27th on Koch Records. In support of the album Prodigy plans to shoot 8 videos for the project. So far 2 have been leaked to YouTube. To view the video for "Mac 10 Handle" click here & for the video for "New York Shit" click here.
Tame One Droppin' New Mix CD
2/12/07 will mark the day the brand new Tame One Mix CD, The Grudge is droppin. Tame has confirmed that the Mix will feature a majority of new music, and not just him rappin' over pre-released industry instrumentals. Production on the Mix is kept to mostly Jersey heads and features Shape, Mishap, Mr.Mone, Arkitekt and also features a rare exclusive freestyle cipher with Rah Digga & Redman from the now-defunct DJ Stretch Armstrong Hot 97 show over a classic EPMD beat. Right now it looks as though the CD will only be sold @ certain skate shop locales around Jersey, but holla at the Weatherman and say, "Sell Yo Shit @ UGHH.com". Oh yeah, the link to his MySpace is right here. In case you wanna know.
Jay-Z Accused of Using Dog Fur in Rocawear Clothing Line
Jay-Z's Rocawear clothing line has been accused of using dog fur on the collar of one of its coats.
According to an investigation by the Humane Society of the United States, the "Hunter" jacket in the Rocawear line contains real fur from a raccoon dog, although it is advertised as fake fur. The Humane Society claims that the dog, which is indigenous to Asia, is skinned alive to obtain the fur for the coats.
The Brooklyn-born rapper has something in common with fellow hip-hop mogul Sean "P.Diddy" Combs, whose Sean John line was also accused of using fur from the same type of dog on their hooded snorkel jackets in a similar investigation by the Humane Society. Sean John removed the jackets from all Macy's retail stores as a result of the claim.
The "Hunter" jackets, which can be found on the company's site Rocawear.com, is still a featured item on the site as of Tuesday (January 16) and sells for $265. According to the Fur Products Labeling Act, retailers who advertise or sell a product that is falsely labeled is subject to having their merchandise seized, may face criminal charges and can be forced to pay fines of up to $5,000 per violation.
50 Cent Supports Jay-Z
With the slack that Jay-Z’s comeback album, Kingdom Come, has received since it’s release in November. 50 Cent decided to lend his support to President Carter.
“ In Jay-Z’s case, he just ran into Jay-Z. The critics are comparing him to the old Jay-Z saying, ‘his stuff wasn’t as good as the older stuff, he looks too relaxed.’ I saw on a TV show recently, ‘he looks like he belongs in the office’ “ 50 said when speaking with MTV.
“They say all kinda things about him. This is them weighing what his new work is to his old work,” 50 said. “The Jay-Z record is a great record, the (critics) are gonna dog it. They are just gonna say, ‘He is not as good as he was’ You see what I’m sayin’?"
With the release of Fifty’s third album on its way, he notes that he’s been under the same pressure himself.
“My second album was the toughest. You are in competition with yourself,” he said. “It’s always harder. The title of my new album, ‘Before I Self Destruct’. Is a reflection of that pressure.”
He then went on to state that after you make your record about your environment and your upbringing (which is successful), people begin to ask what you’re gonna do next.
“What are you gonna do now? You are a role model. Are you gonna change your content?” 50 says of what he hears from critics and fans alike.
His response:
“…I’m gonna do something different….nobody can be me; better than me. That’s what the general public has bought into, 50 Cent.”
50 Cent’s third album, Before I Self Destruct, in stores this spring.
The Free DJ Drama & DJ Cannon Campaign Begins
"You know you're hot when you got the Hip-Hop police on your ass," said one internet poster on DJ Don Cannon's myspace page. "FREE DRAMA & DON CANNON."
The Hip-Hop community has immediately responded to the office raid and arrest of DJ Don Cannon and DJ Drama of the Aphilliates, a collective of DJs based in Atlanta.
Yesterday, 17 people were apprehended from the company's offices in a raid where all off the mixtape CDs, computer and recording equipment were confiscated by the federal government and the RIAA.
Drama and Cannon, the most recognizable faces of Aphilliates Music Group, were the only people arrested and slapped with racketeering charges.
Now, the graphical image of DJ Drama emblazoned with "Free Drama & Cannon" has begun to spread across the Internet, through message boards and artist's music pages.
The arrests have raised questions about the validity of the charges, by fans and professionals.
"These guys weren't selling official barcoded albums, like the type you buy on 125th Street in Harlem, but should be buying from a legitimate retail store," said one music industry professional under the auspices of anonymity. "The artists were apart of the creation process on most - if not all of the Gangsta Grillz."
DJ Drama, who serves as T.I.'s DJ, has received a number of accolades for his ability to turn his mixtape CDs into wholly new works of art with the aid of rappers like Lil' Wayne, Bun B, Young Jeezy, 8Ball & MJG and a host of others.
The RIAA raids aren't a new phenomenon.
Days after mixtape staple Justo Faison died, the RIAA announced a series of raids that were executed in New York City.
"Retailers who are making money on the backs of musicians and record companies by selling pirated CD's should know that this is absolutely no way to conduct a business," said Brad Buckles of the RIAA to the New York Times in 2005.
Of the RIAA, one protester inquired as to the apparent conflict in raids like the Aphilliates and others that create Hip-Hop mix CDs.
"[DJ Drama and Cannon are] putting out mixtapes , creating a buzz for an artist and then the artist sells records and the major [label] makes the bucks, so what's wrong?"
A high ranking executive that is familiar with both DJ Drama and Don Cannon said the arrests of DJ's of their stature would have a chilling effect on the entire mixtape culture.
"Record labels have always utilized the important DJ's to help promote the records," the unnamed executive told AllHipHop.com. "The DJ's help promote the records. For the most part the records they put out are given to them by the labels. It's something that has to be taken into consideration. The mixtapes are done cooperatively, where the labels and the mixtape DJ's work together to break artists. It's a tough position. The RIAA and the corporate people feel a certain way."
Until the question is answered, supporters of DJ Drama and Don Cannon will continue to protest their incarceration.
Matthew Kilgo, who oversaw the RIAA's role in yesterday's raids of The Aphilliates office in Atlanta, was unable to comment due to a recently imposed gag order.
