Brand New Boombox

Throwback: Pastor Troy - This Tha City

2009-11-13T20:38:00.000-08:00

The year is 2000 (or 2001, I forget). I'm watching BET (back when they were a good channel) and they throw on this video. Now I had heard PT before but that was the first time I had actually seen him. And what a song This Tha City was. It was (arguably) the best Pastor Troy song (well, Vice Versa was better) ever. Let's Reminisce...

Pac Div - Whiplash/Young Black Male

2009-11-13T20:14:00.000-08:00

2 for the price of... none. Some visuals for two tracks from the last Pac Div mixtape, Church League Champions. I wasn't really feeling Young Black Male much but Whiplash was my joint. We need some more new Pac Div music now!

What have you been up to Radio?

2009-10-15T22:48:00.000-07:00

I know I've been absent (yeah right, this ain't high school yo) from the blog as of late but I've been working very hard on improving my beats, so every moment I've had that I wasn't at my 9 to 5 (more like 4PM to 3AM), I have been working on either getting beats out there to artists or making beats.

Here's some things that I have completed:

Scrub - The Devil On Me (prod. by Radio Raheim) by Radio Raheim

J.Nolan - Ain't Fooling Me (prod. by Radio Raheim) by Radio Raheim

And here is a beat I made today:

I Made It by Radio Raheim

Any feedback would be greatly appreciated

Torae & Marco Polo ft. DJ Revolution - Double Barrel

2009-09-26T16:26:00.000-07:00

This is the title track to Torae & Marco Polo's Double Barrel album. I had to post this because this is my favorite track on the album (aside from Ge It, which is also a banger). The visuals match this song totally. This is one of those songs that make you want to get up and dropkick your computer (but you won't because you can't afford another one). Phenomal scratching is also displayed by DJ Revolution on the hook. Check it out.

Torae & Marco Polo ft. DJ Revolution - Double Barrel
Bonus: Torae & Marco Polo - Get It

Throwback: Twista ft. Ms. Kane - Get It Wet

2009-09-26T12:57:00.000-07:00

Twista - Get It Wet

I remember going nuts when this video used to come on on The Box back in 96-97ish. This was my ish back in the day & until now, I thought everyone had heard of this one. I can't believe how many people have told me that the first time they heard twista was on Kanye's Slow Jams. What!? Anyway, check the part of the video where Twista turns into a tornado & becomes different people. That was so dope. This whole video was dope.

Twista ft. Ms. Kane - Get It Wet

Also, ain't it funny how Wetter sounds just like Get It Wet?

Wiz Khalifa - B.A.R. (Burn After Rolling)

2009-09-04T00:33:00.001-07:00

I've been a fan of (most) of Pittsburg's own Wiz Khalifa's music since I heard Youngin On His Grind and What It Used To Be on Nicolay's album. His latest joints, however, I have not been feelin much but I am feeling this one. His flow is a lot different now (why is everybody switching to this same flow nowadays?). Whoever did this beat needs a certificate of appreciation.

Wiz Khalifa - B.A.R. (Burn After Rolling)

Also, compare his current flow with his old flow. Notice the difference?

|Before|

Wiz Khalifa - Youngin On His Grind

Nicolay ft. Wiz Khalifa - What It Used To Be

|Now|

Wiz Khalifa - Make It Hot

KRS-One & Buckshot ft. Mary J. Blige - The Way I Live (Prod. By Black Milk)

2009-09-04T00:18:00.001-07:00

I've been waiting for this joint to drop. And now here it is (thanx to those 2DopeBoyz). No more needs to be said. The title of the track, the artists, & (definitely) the producer is all that needs to be known to know that this one is a banger. Drum Roll PLEASE.

Buckshot & KRS-One ft. Mary J. Blige - The Way I Live (Prod. By Black Milk)

Album Version | Promo CDS

What happened to Acapellas?!

Saigon ft. Red 5ive (aka Just Blaze) - Gotta Believe It

2009-09-03T23:22:00.001-07:00

I've been feeling this joint for a while now and it gets even better with the video. Peep the imagery. Yo Saigon, Greatest Story Never Told? Are we just gonna act like it never existed? Warning Shots 2 coming in October.

Saigon Ft. Red 5ive (Just Blaze) - Gotta Believe It

Main | Instrumental

Dwele - Travelin' Girl

2009-08-17T01:09:00.000-07:00

This is definitely one of the standout joints on his album Sketches Of A Man and the video is great also. The video is shot like a live performance with the song altered with live instrumentation. This ish is dope. Why are folks still sleeping on Dwele?

Mally - The Passion

2009-08-06T15:23:00.000-07:00

The next album to drop from Minneapolis rapper Mally (minus the "From the 612"). The punchlines are vicious! All 10 tracks are produced by Mydus. This one is guaranteed to be food for your mind, soul, and ears. Check it out.

Mally - The Passion (Produced By Mydus)

"If you throw a mic at 'em I treat it like Joseph" (c) Mally - Remember That

Slaughterhouse - The One

2009-07-13T17:00:00.000-07:00

New video from the group Slaughterhouse. If you still don't know who Slaughterhouse is, then go in your medicine cabinet and eat all of the pills (nah just kidding). Slaughterhouse is Crooked I, Joell Ortiz, Royce Da 5'9" & Joe Budden. Each member is lyrically potent enough to kill your favorite rappers but together they're like the atom bomb. The self titled abum drops early August. By the way, DJ Khalil has been dropping hit after hit lately.

Slaughterhouse - The One (Prod. By DJ Khalil)

Rapper Big Pooh - Calling

2009-07-01T22:29:00.000-07:00

I don't know where this track came from or where its going. All I can say is this song is certified dopeness. I wonder why this wasn't on The Delightful Bars (or one of its 4 different versions anyway). Check it out.

Rapper Big Pooh - Calling (Produced By D.K.)

Clipse ft. Pharrell & Keri Hilson - Eyes On Me

2009-07-01T22:19:00.000-07:00

Clipse continues to drop hits with this new track off of Til The Casket Drops. This one is produced by The Neptunes (another Neptunes track on the album. Yeah!) and features Pharrell and a small contribution from the (very) sexy Keri Hilson. These dudes are sooo underrated.

Clipse ft. Pharrell & Keri Hilson - Eyes On Me (Prod. By The Neptunes)

Oh, and did you know that Little Brother - Dreams was supposed to feature Pusha T of Clipse?

Drake - Best I Ever Had

2009-07-01T22:04:00.000-07:00

New video for Drake's "Best I Ever Had". This was the standout joint on his last mixtape So Far Gone. This video is directed by Mr. Kanye West (and you can tell by the number of big breasted women in the video. lol.). Check it out. Download the track and the instrumental below.

Download: Drake - Best I Ever Had (Prod. By Boi-1da) ---> Album Version | Instrumental

Jay-Z - D.O.A. (Death Of Autotune)

2009-06-29T00:11:00.000-07:00

"Moment Of Silence"

Drake ft. Phonte & Elzhi - Think Good Thoughts [Full]

2009-06-24T09:43:00.000-07:00

Y'all remember I asked who has the full version of this song a while back? (Probably not) Well here it is courtesy of 2dopeboyz. This is my favorite Drake (The Rapper, not the singer) song hands down (well, "Don't You Have A Man" was pure fire too). I personally think Phonte had the best verse but Elzhi was close. Drake's verse was not bad though, the other verses were just so good.

Drake ft. Phonte & Elzhi - Think Good Thoughts (Prod. By 9th Wonder)

Tyler Woods - Prove Myself

2009-06-18T13:39:00.001-07:00

If you are still in the dark, Tyler Woods 9th Wonder's newest (well, not really newest) R&B artist. This dude has that soulful voice reminiscent of a Marvin Gaye. This track right here is so smooth and what better fit for a video location than a Rollerscating rink. Y'all remember going skating and there was always a group doing crazy tricks on the floor (or you just saw the movie ATL). 9th Wonder on the production. Check It Out.

Bonus: Rapsody, Tom Hardy & D. Mal - Shine (Produced By 9th Wonder) (Provided Courtesy of D. Mal)
Bonus: Wale ft. Mike Posner & Big Sean - Wonder Why (Produced By 9th Woder) (Provided Courtesty of 2dopeboyz)

Jamla Baby!

Clipse ft. Pharrell - I'm Good

2009-06-11T21:50:00.001-07:00

New Track by Clipse featuring Pharell and the Neptunes on production. I heard a while back that there would be no Neptunes production on the new Clipse album. I'm glad that there will be though. The Clipse just fits so nicely over Neptunes beats. Til The Casket Drops coming soon.

Clipse ft. Pharrell - I'm Good

The Alchemist ft. Maxwell & Twista - Smile

2009-06-11T21:05:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite Alchemist joint that will be on the new album so far. He enlists the aid of Twista & Maxwell to create this song. Man, I hope I can find an acapella to this so we can get a Radio Raheim remix. Chemical Warfare drops July. Be sure to get it.

Download: Alchemist ft. Twista & Maxwell - Smile

Where is "The Wonder Years" Ninfe?

2009-06-07T23:34:00.000-07:00

The Wonder Years was supposed to be that breakout 9th Wonder album that was supposed to come out last year. Now that know Detox will be dropping soon and Raekwon will be dropping OBFCL2, I find myself asking "Where is The Wonder Years Ninfe?"

Here are a few songs that were supposed to be on the album:

9th Wonder ft. Tyler Woods & Talib Kweli - Ms. Diva
9th Wonder ft. Tyler Woods & Styles P. - Only Knew

Another 9th Wonder & David Banner Jam N The Works

2009-06-07T23:32:00.000-07:00

I'm interested in hearing the project these two are cooking up. Everything I have heard thus far has been hot.

Charles Hamilton Gets Rocked By Angry Girl

2009-05-25T01:44:00.000-07:00

This video is mad funny. Charles Hamilton makes this girl angry and she writes an angry rap about him and he does what Mr. Hamilton would do, make the situation worst by battle rapping her and airing her personal business out in his rap. So what does she do. She delivers a stiff right!

Whoa Mr. Hamilton. First you go get humiliated by Rhymefest, then you start stealing beats, and now you're getting punched by girls on TV. I hope she wasn't from Brooklyn. How ironic would that be? Ladies & Gentlemen, this dude is a clown. Ha ha! for real though, I liked that joint he did over Black Spades beat (even though he claimed he did that beat). By the way, this picture had me rollin all day!

The Cool Kids - Gone Fishing + Hollyweerd - Candy For Kleptos

2009-05-24T16:11:00.000-07:00

Still sleeping on The Cool Kids? Check out this mixtape presented by Don Cannon with features like Bun B, Ludacris, GLC, & Ryan Leslie. My favs in this tape are "Champions", "Jump Rope" & "Summer Vacation". When Fish Ride Bicycles coming soon.

Download

Next up, we have Stago Lee, Love Crusader, Tuki, & Dreamer collectively known as Hollyweerd. These dudes have been going hard since they dropped that Weerdo track. Tape after tape of dopeness reminscent of the style of Outkast with a dash of the Neptunes sound but still very unique. Is it me or do they always seem to have the dopest abum art. I'm loving the track "Classic". Check out the latest mixtape.

Download

M-Phazes Working On That New Amerie Album

2009-05-24T15:49:00.000-07:00

Amerie (Singer) + M-Phazes (Producer). Yeah, I am a really big fan of both here. Two very underestimated artists, in my opinion, will be working together. Amerie did not want to be included on the video footage (that sux) but I just want to hear the collaboration which everyone keeps saying is "a lot of people's favorite".

Some Albums To Check Out

2009-05-24T15:16:00.000-07:00

Ozy Reigns - Exciting Times

My Fav Tracks:
10. 93 BPM's
12. Reign Of Fire
20. Dreamers

Download

Draft - Forever Yung

My Fav Tracks:
1. Forever Young
5. Early and Late
4. Let's Roll

Download

J.Nolan - Chasing Cool

My Fav Tracks:
1. Intro
9. Chasing Cool
12. 3rd Time's a Charm

Download

Rhymefest - Chicago

2009-05-12T01:35:00.000-07:00

What can I say, this video is pretty dope. The video is based off the comic books.

And as an Added Bonus I give you a classic Kanye West video...
Kanye West ft. Harlem Boys Chior, Freeway, & Mos Def - Two Words (From "College Dropout")

9th Wonder, E. Jones, & David Banner in the Stu

2009-04-21T19:14:00.001-07:00

And as an added bonus......

The beat 9th submitted to Nas

Free Warm Up Beat Produced By Radio Raheim

2009-03-26T17:57:00.000-07:00

Okay. So I usually never give anything out free (including beats, money, gifts, and affection lol) but this was just a little 5 minute sample chopping session (literally, there is only samples and no extra drums or instrumentation) I had with a sample I already used a while back so if you wanna go ahead and use it, feel free. As a matter of fact, If you want let me hear it, go ahead. I like hearing new music so I'm always game for a listen. Just post it in the comments or something. Oh, and I know the image is pretty random but I always thought Beast was pretty dope.

Free Warm Up Beat Produced Produced By Radio Raheim

Unlikely Collaboration From Joe Scudda & ... T-Pain?

2009-02-24T13:29:00.001-08:00

Athens, GA turned NC rapper Joe Scudda teams up with Hit-Hook-maker, autotune champion, and rappa ternt sanga ternt rappa-sanga (kinda) T-Pain for a surprisingly smooth, mellow, and jazzy song with NO AUTOTUNE INCLUDED. I think this was one of the non-autotune tracks on Thr33 Ringz originally. Check this one out NOW! Joe Scudda's "Fashionably Late" album coming soon.

Download: Joe Scudda ft. T-Pain - Keep On Drinkin' (Thanks 2DopeBoyz)

Mally - What A Life (Prod. By Radio Raheim)

2009-02-24T12:00:00.000-08:00

This track comes from Minneapolis emcee Mally. If you never heard of him, check out his previous two albums The Letter and The Moment on datpiff. The track is called What A Life and is produced by me (Radio Raheim). It will be appearing on his new album, "Return Of The Nice".

Download: Mally - What A Life (Thanks HipHopUpdate.blogspot.com)

J Haze - Uncle Mann: The Return Of The Beat Record

2009-02-19T21:00:00.000-08:00

Like production greats Madlib, Flying Lotus, and the late great James "J. Dilla" Yancey, Atlanta producer J Haze compiles an album full of elaborately sampled and soulful compositions. For the fans of the beat albums (like myself), this one is sure to appease your hunger for soul. Look out for J Haze production on Draft's "Forever Young" album coming soon.

J Haze - Uncle Mann: The Return Of The Beat Record

Draft ft. Sean MC - That's Us (Prod. By The Beat Medic)

2009-02-19T20:56:00.000-08:00

This video is for the first single off of Atlanta rapper's Draft album "Forever Young". From what I have heard so far, this album is sure to be dope.

Download: Draft ft. Sean MC - That's Us (thanks legallycrazyatl.com)

A.P. - This Is What...

2009-02-03T15:03:00.000-08:00

This A.P. is really starting to impress me with the music he has been putting out. All truth, I know nothing about this dude except for that he is somehow affiliated with Styles P or D Block. This is my favorite A.P. track thus far (It sounds like a Black Milk beat) and there is a video to it now. Check it out.

A Lil Edu-ma-Cation from 9th Wonder

2009-02-03T14:46:00.000-08:00

Wale - Nike Boots

2008-12-02T12:09:00.000-08:00

"I'm just doin What I gotta do!"

Gym Class (Super)Heroes

2008-11-24T18:38:00.000-08:00

Starring Travis McCoy & Amanda Diva. This is funny, although I am not sure what's really going on. I guess they are trying to say that Hip Hop is kind of like Kenny from South Park. It dies in every episode. Ha ha. Oh and, Amanda Diva is so MF'ing sexy!

Gym Class Superheroes from jeff on Vimeo.

Young Buck Is Back... And He Wants It All!

2008-11-10T17:03:00.000-08:00

Yeah. Buck is back. Where has he been? I guess he had to regroup after that infamous taped phone conversation. That's Okay, Buck. We welcome you back with open arms. This track is better than the Curtis album.

Young Buck - I Want It All
"I would tell y'all when my album comin' out but shit, I don't even know."

Peter Rosenberg & Oddisee - A Rosenberg Oddisee

2008-11-04T23:00:00.000-08:00

FREE DOWNLOAD

Radio personality Peter Rosenberg went in the studio with 8 artists and producer/rapper extraordinaire Oddisee and created this mini classics. My personal favorite tracks are "Tell The Truth" & "So Mafuckin' Soulful". The beats are insane and so are the tracks. Check them out!

01. Gratitude (Feat. Torae & Tiara Wiles)
02. So Mafuckin’ Soulful (Feat. Skyzoo)
03. Jealous Niggas (Feat. Daytona)
04. World War IV (Feat. Saigon & Lil Fame)
05. Where I Be At (Feat. Buckshot)
06. Tell The Truth (Feat. Nikki Jean)

The New U.S. President: Barack Obama

2008-11-04T22:00:00.000-08:00

Congratulations To The First African American President in United States History,

President Barack Obama!

This would not be complete without some theme music provided to us by Nas, Johnny Polygon, Charles Hamilton, Asher Roth, and B.o.B.

Charles Hamilton, Asher Roth, & B.o.B. - Change Gon' Come (Prod. By Nick Fury)
Nas ft. Johnny Polygon - Black President (Prod. By DJ Green Lantern)

Ludacris - Theater Of The Mind (Tracklist Video Trailer)

2008-11-04T17:58:00.000-08:00

Coming To A Theater Near You

Black Milk - Tronic

2008-10-29T10:26:00.000-07:00

So Tronic is here. I was hoping for album of the year quality tracks but it fell a little short. At the same time, it is one of the better albums of the year. I think Black needed some of them soul samples that he said he wasn't going to use. Popular Demand utilized these soul samples wonderfully. He needed some of those beats like he did for other artists (Torae - Switch, Kidz In The Hall - Middle of the Map Pt. 1, Elzhi ft. Royce Da 5'9" - Motown 25, Skyzoo ft. Black Milk - Hold Tight [Remix]). At the same time, Black Milk is three times a better lyricist than he was in Popular Demand. So things kind of balance. Even though this album is different than his last one, it is still equally as good.

Notable Standout Tracks (Good):
Try
Hell Yeah (Feat. Fat Ray)
Without You (Feat. Colin Munroe)
The Matrix (Feat. DJ Premier, Pharoahe Monch, & Sean Price)
Hold It Down
Losing Out (Feat. Royce Da 5'9")

Notable Standout Tracks (Not So Good):
Give The Drummer Sum
Overdose
Bond 4 Life (Feat. Melanie Rutherford)

Download

"Plus when we met her, should would get wetter than surf boards" lol

Dallas Penn In The Studio With Statik Selektah & Joell Ortiz

2008-10-23T20:41:00.000-07:00

This is footage from the recording of the Talkin Bout You (Ladies) track on Statik Selektah's latest album, Stick 2 The Script. For real, this footage is funny and this is my favorite track on the album.

Dallas Penn: So Joell, what are you doing here man?
Joell Ortiz: This is a studio...
Dallas Penn: Oh yeah, you're right.

LOL. Priceless!

Statik Selektah ft. Skyzoo, Joell Ortiz, & Talib Kweli - Talkin Bout You (Ladies)

Statik Selektah ft. Skyzoo, Joell Ortiz, & Talib Kweli - Talkin Bout You (Ladies) (Instrumental)

Stick 2 The Script!!!

Black Milk ft. Royce Da 5'9" - Losing Out

2008-10-23T19:58:00.000-07:00

This is another track off Black Milk's next album Tronic which is set to be released Oct. 28. You all know I'm a big Black Milk fan. As a matter of fact, I base a lot of my production style off of his but anyway, check out the track. Oh, and Royce GOES IN (AGAIN)!!! Royce has been doing it big lately.

Black Milk ft. Royce Da 5'9" - Losing Out

People, give Black Milk a chance and check out Tronic on Tuesday. I know he will deliver.

The Foreign Exchange ft. Muhsinah - Daykeeper (video)

2008-10-23T19:10:00.000-07:00

The new video for Foreign Exchange's first single off of Leave It All Behind. The video is deep for real. Check it out!

Chaundon is The Greatest Warrior

2008-10-19T21:09:00.000-07:00

This is a video off of Chaundon's debut album, Carnage. This track was produced by Illmind. The song is great but I think the the video is a little bit too cliché. IT probably would have been good to see some more people in the video. Regardless, Chaundon is the man with wordplay and this song shows it.

Serius Jones - The Making of Slow Down Video

2008-10-17T01:12:00.000-07:00

When is this dude gonna drop. Seriously (no pun intended).

Common Surfing With... Serena's Ass!

2008-10-15T10:52:00.000-07:00

LOL! This video is hella funny (c) Eric Cartman. For real though, I would do anything to Serena's Ass she wants me to.

Serena Williams Handles the Swell (MySpace Exclusive)

Kimbo Slice Knocked Out By... Seth Petruzelli?

2008-10-12T20:40:00.000-07:00

I knew this day would come. I mean, come on, Kimbo Slice is not a Mixed Martial Artist just because he can put out a few dudes on the block. That does make him tough but these MMA guys have something he doesn't. They are TRAINED to fight. Now given a few years of MMA training and a while to build his reputation, I think Kimbo can become a great fighter but it is really too soon for him to be trying to fight the best. This knockout does not surprise me. I'm actually surprised he made it to 3-0.

Can you tell in his face that Petruzelli knew he would win?

Wake Up!!! Ludacris & 9th Wonder In The Studio

2008-10-09T20:57:00.000-07:00

Here's a clip of Ludacris & 9th Wonder in the studio working on Ludacris' new album, Theater of the Mind. This 9th beat is crazy and I always wanted to hear artists like Luda over 9th's beats. In case you have not seen part 1, it's here also. Can't wait to hear Ludacris - MVP produced by DJ Premier. That one should be hot too. Do The Right Thing and check ths out.

Part I

Part II

Ken Shamrock Pushes Kimbo Slice @ Weigh In

2008-10-07T20:38:00.000-07:00

Ooh. Can we say "CONTROVERSY". Ha ha!

Shamrock is sure getting old and Kimbo looks like a lunatic. By the way, who won this fight. I think I missed it. Did it happen yet?

Common's Universal Mind Control

2008-10-07T20:32:00.000-07:00

I thought the song was dope but the video is doper. Check it out.

Yes, Pharrell is a robut (in a Dr. Zoidberg from futurama voice).

Joe Budden - Touch & Go

2008-10-05T13:06:00.000-07:00

This is the first single off of Joe Budden's Padded Room. This video and track feels like 98-02 with the sound to match. This kind of reminds me of Pump It Up though. It kind of brings me back to when Free & AJ were the most common household names.

Joe Budden - Touch & Go

Oh, and this Joe Budden vs. Royce Da 5'9 pre-beef is getting kind of interesting. Who do you think is better?

Peedi Asks Have You Seen Him

2008-10-05T13:01:00.000-07:00

Peedi is coming at Jay-Z in this diss video. It's not very lyrical but still very entertaining and funny. Camel hunting season again (nah, lemme stop because the camel might decide to hunt the hunters).

"Don't Time Just Fly When You're Having Fun" LOL!!!

Tronic is coming

2008-10-03T03:20:00.000-07:00

Yep, that's right. Tronic is dropping October 28th and personally, I can't wait. Black Milk is probably my favorite producer and, being from the Midwest, I think he best personifies our sound. So here's the tracklist and leaked tracks.

Tracklist:

1. Long Story Short
2. Bounce
3. Give the Drummer Sum
4. Without U ft. Colin Munroe
5. Hold it Down
6. Losing Out ft. Royce 5'9
7. Hell Yeah
8. Overdose
9. Reppin for U ft. AB
10. The Matrix ft. Pharoahe Monch, Sean Price, Dj Premier
11. Try
12. Tronic Summer
13. Bond 4 Life (Music) ft. Melanie Rutherford
14. Elec (Outro)

Black Milk - Give The Drummer Sum

Black Milk ft. DJ Premier, Pharoahe Monch, & Sean Price - The Matrix

Give The Drummer Sum video is coming soon. For now, here is Black Milk in the studio adding the trumpet to the track.

And last but not least, here are some exclusive Black Milk joints. Peep the theme.

Black Milk - Music From The Color Purple

Tor Switches The Flow Up

2008-09-29T16:27:00.000-07:00

This is the new video from Torae for his second single off of Daily Conversation. In this track, Tor experiments with other rappers flows. This dude touch on every style from west coast, to dirty south, to new jack, to... Robotic? Lol @ robotor! I liked Torminator X's flow the best followed by Lil Tor & then TorPac. Lol. Black Milk needs an award for these beats that knock so nicely.

Colin Munroe + Kanye West

2008-09-14T13:31:00.000-07:00

So today I'm supposed to be working on a Chromotography lab report and studying for a physics exam for tomorrow. But instead, I'm listening to music (my kryptonite) and I'm rocking Graduation and thinking how much Kanye's new album 808's & Heartbreak will be a disappointment for me (He is singing on every track). Then I get to Flashing Lights and think of how much I liked the Colin Munroe version also. Wouldn't a Colin Munroe & Kanye West collaboration be a perfect match on the new album. That would equal one dope track for real. Just think about it...

Kanye West - Flashing Lights

Kanye West - Flashing Lights
Kanye West - Flashing Lights (Instrumental)

Colin Munroe - I Want Those Flashing Lights

Colin Munroe - I Want Those Flashing Lights

Duck Down!!!

2008-09-13T09:00:00.000-07:00

This first video is from Heltah Skeltah for their single "Everything is Heltah Skeltah". With a video cameo from Mr. Charlie Manson (lol), how can everything not be heltah skeltah. LOL @ Illmind in the skull gloves. Dude look funny creeping around in the begining of the video in that skull attire.

This next video is the making of Kidz In The Hall's new video "Love Hangover". LOL @ Double O. Notice he got that hat leaning to one side covering up that eye injuring he got from that nightclub beatdown in Arizona. That's all right homie. You hid that with style though.

New Videos Torae & Justus League

2008-09-11T10:29:00.000-07:00

This first video is from Torae. It's the behind the scenes from his new video Switch (my favorite track on Daily Conversation). I can't wait for the video. It seems like he going to take on the multiple pesonas of the flows he adopting in the track. Oh and the song they are playing in the background is "Uncomfortable" offf of his Allow Me To Reintroduce Myself Mixtape (and is one of my favorite songs on the mixtape. 9th wonder got them beats to make your soul glo). Lol @ ATL Tor!

The next video I got emailed to me from Chaundon the other day and is for Chaundon, Rapper Big Pooh, & Joe Scudda's track Plastic Cups. I heard this track on Rapper Pooh's myspace a very long time ago and I couldn't have imagined then that they would create a video for it. The song is hot though. The beat is by J Dilla. Well here's that video (gotta go because Coming To America is on).

R.I.P. Bernie Mac & Isaac Hayes

2008-08-10T23:15:00.000-07:00

It is said that the death of famous celebrities come in threes. I don't know how much truth it is to that but I do know that this week, we lost two wonderful and legendary entertainers in Bernie Mac & Isaac Hayes. If you don't know about Bernie Mac, he was a comedian, one of the Original Kings of Comedy (alongside Cedric The Entertainer, D.L. Hughley, & Steve Harvey) and star of the Bernie Mac show. He star in many movies like Mr. 3000, Ocean's Eleven, How To Be A Player, & Life. Laughs always followed when Bernie Mac spoke because he was just funny as HELL! But seriously, there will never be another comedian quite like Bernie Mac.

1957 - 2008

The next great loss came when Isaac Hayes died yesterday afternoon. Hayes was the Memphis born blues, soul & funk legend. Some know him from his recent acting roles such as Hustle & Flow and others recognize his deep harmonic voice as the voice of "Chef" from South Park. Hayes and his orchestra could compose such great music. Anytime you hear tracks like Jay-Z's "Can I live", Ashanti's "Rain On Me" or Ludacris' "Southern Fried Intro", you are hearing a sample of Hayes timeless music. The popular "Theme Song From Shaft" was also a credit to Isaac Hayes. Black Moses will be missed.

Isaac Hayes - The Look Of Love
Isaac Hayes - Walk On By

1942 - 2008

New Drake/ New Busta Rhymes

2008-08-09T01:14:00.003-07:00

This first track comes from Drake. It's called "Still Fly" because the beat uses the same melody as Big Tymer's "Still Fly" (my favorite Big Tymers song). I have to say that Drake makes some hot music. I never would have thought that he was nice since that track he put out with Trey Songs was WHACK (in my opinion). Anybody who can find the full track by Drake called "Think Good Thoughts" featuring Phonte (Tay spazzed on this one) & Elzhi and produced by 9th Wonder (Anita Baker's "Sweet Love" is so well flipped), please feel free to hit me up with it. I really would like to hear the Elzhi verse. That track is thus far my favorite Drake track (even better than "Don't You Have A Man").

Drake -Still Fly

Drake ft. Elzhi & Phonte - Think Good Thoughts (Shortened mixtape vesion) [Prod. By 9th Wonder]

People always talk about their greatest rappers lists best & Emcee's and etc. Sometimes the lists are reasonable and sometimes you want to quote Rick James ("Cocaine is a hell of a drug"). Somebody seriously told me that Gucci Mane was the greatest rapper to bless a mic. Not hatin on Gucci Mane, but seriously, THE BEST. Nah. Well, one man who deserves to be on that list is Busta Rhymes. This is one of the few rappers in the game who can easily stay relevant and still please the various hip hop fans (the clubbers, the thugs, the herbs, the backpackers, the old schoolers, etc.). This track is called "Packin Them Things" and has a really mellow beat. Busta wisely utilizes his crazy/funny flow on this track spittin out all kinds of crazy funny lines. Whether he is being funny or serious, the man knows how to keep the attention of his listeners. He masters a topical flow, delivering potent punchlines, delivery, and Jeezy's favorite "The Adlib" ("THAT'S RIGGGHHHTTTT!!!!). Check out the track.

Busta Rhymes - Packin' Them Things

Legend & DJ Nice Present.... Torae - Allow Me To Re-Introduce Myself

2008-08-05T22:19:00.000-07:00

In case you have never heard of Torae or are hungry for more Torae material not on his debut album (Daily Conversation), DJ Nice & Legend have decided to bring you this mixtape. This features some new or unreleased material from Torae as well as some tracks that feature Torae that you may not know about.

Shout out to Okayplayer for the mixtape. Also shout out to Draftpick, Sean Emcee, & The Beat Medic (legallycrazyATL.blogspot.com) featured on track 14.

DJ Nice, Legend, & Torae - Allow Me To Re-Introduce Myself

Holly Weerd - Edible Phat

2008-08-03T09:26:00.000-07:00

Holly Weerd is a group that have been making a lot of noise with their track "(Have You Ever Made Love To A) Weerdo". This mixtape gives you a little more of their style. It features Janelle Monae and production from producers like Madlib, James Poyser & ?uestlove, & 9th Wonder (which was suprising to me. Has every rapper rhymed over a 9th Wonder beat?)

Download

Big Boi & Mary J. Blige Say "Sumthin's Gotta Give"

2008-08-01T10:10:00.000-07:00

This is the video for Big Boi's first official single off of his upcoming album Sir Lucious Leftfoot... Son Of Chico Dusty. Personally I liked "Royal Flush" better but this track is a little more radio friendly and delivers a great message. My favorite line is when he says

"The great debators debate about who's the greatest MC/Subject matter don't matter because the verses' empty/No food for thought, Nothing for the brain to digest/So I guess it be about who can jive talk the best."

That's what I've been telling everybody for the longest. Yeah your favorite rapper can brag about how good he/she is but can he/she spit a verse on a certain topic without branching off into... well, themselves? Anyway, check out the video.

Download Track

Crazy @ss Mugshot!!!

2008-07-31T20:43:00.000-07:00

Okay so Naledge & Double O (Kidz in The Hall) were involved in a confrontation at an Arizona club. Double O got beat down by a couple of bouncers causing him to need hospitalization. Naledge got out there in time to do what?... TAKE PICTURES of his fallen homie!!! What?! You're not gonna help that man fight off them bouncers dude? Anyway after taking pictures, he was arrested for obstruction and this mugshot was taken. If I were one of the officers there, I would have made him RETAKE HIS MUGSHOT. Was homie trying to be silly at a time like this or was he just so terribly tipsy that he couldn't see the seriousness in this situation. Your friend needed hospitalization and surgery from a beating he took and you're auditioning for The Mask 3? Anyway, check it out. This pic had me rollin'!

Whoa!!!

Three-1-Zero - '99 Lakers LP

2008-07-30T13:21:00.001-07:00

This mixtape is commemorative of the Lakers 1999 lineup with a track dedicated to certain members of the team as well as other tracks dedicated to aspects the sport. The tracks however are not about the Lakers but the attitude of each track represents the attitude of the player. You gotta check this out. LA's Three-1-Zero has created a great concept album in this mixtape. I put that "Corie Blount" joint up on the Black Milk post a while back, so now here's the whole thing.

Three-1-Zero - '99 Lakers LP

"Beats By Dr. Dre" Headphones

2008-07-24T21:27:00.001-07:00

First off, I want to say that I MUST HAVE THESE SOON!!!! No really, I need these headphones. I am going to start a collection for anyone who wants to help this poor black man get these phones! Ha ha!

Legendary artist and producer Dr. Dre, Interscope Geffen A&M Chairman Jimmy Iovine and leading audio/video accessories company Monster, announced today (July 22) via press release that their new Beats by Dr. Dre high definition powered isolation headphones will be available July 25th at Apple retail and online stores, Best Buy retail and online stores, as well as the official website beatsbydre.com, for a price of $349.95.

Beats™ by Dr. Dre™ feature a unique stylish look and fashion, and come with a convenient, hip carrying case. The wide adjustable headband, soft plush hinged ear cups and high-quality Monster cable makes the Beats listening experience unmatched for comfort and sound.

“Dre and I have been developing these headphones for a while and in Monster we found a partner that could work with us to crystallize his vision and develop them to the quality level he expects,” said Jimmy Iovine, Chairman of Interscope Geffen A&M Records. “Beats™ By Dr. Dre™ is yet another example of Interscope’s commitment to working together with its artists in developing new avenues to experience music.”

Kevin Lee, VP of Product and Marketing for Monster, noted: “After three years of hard work, we’re extremely excited about launching Beats™ By Dr. Dre™. This is the most advanced headphone ever built and delivers a music experience I think people will find amazing.”

For more information check out the website.

Skillz - The Million Dollar Backpack

2008-07-24T21:15:00.000-07:00

To tell you the truth, I never really listened to a Skillz album before this. I mean, the Rap Ups were hot but I just couldn't imagine how a Mad Skillz album could be good. But The Million Dollar Backpack is better than good. This has to be one of the most solid album to come out this year. I mean, I can pretty much listen to this album track to track all the way to the end. If you haven't heard the album, You must check it out. You MUST. Kanye needs to add this dude to his GOOD Music roster. Those two working together would create a classic album. Skillz + Kanye West = Classic Album! Oh well, we can dream can't we?

Standout tracks:
*Don't Act Like You Don't Know (Feat. Freeway)
*My Phone
*Sick
*Hip Hop Died
*Hold Tight (Feat. Black Thought)
*Yeah Ya Know It (Feat. Truck North)

Download

New Murs & 9th Wonder Album - Sweet Lord

2008-07-24T18:14:00.001-07:00

To prepare people for Murs' next album "Murs For President", Murs & 9th Wonder have teamed up to release this free album "Sweet Lord". On this third album from the duo, you hear the evolution of both Murs (lyrically) & 9th Wonder (beatwise) and also, 9th has a couple of things to say on this album. I didn't even know dude could speak till recently. Ha ha! Nah, he did talk in The Listening too.

Murs & 9th Wonder - Sweet Lord

Spazz Out If U Want To

2008-07-16T13:33:00.000-07:00

With a new CRS video on the way (so says Mr. Fiasco), I thought it would be cool to see who spazzed out more. Is it Pharrell or Lupe Fiasco? Both have tracks out titled Spazz (or with the word in the title). Let me know which one you think is the better track.

N*E*R*D - Spazz

Lupe Fiasco - Spazz Out

Aldult Swim's Worldwide Renewal Program

2008-07-11T11:27:00.000-07:00

This is a lil something from the Infamous Adult Swim. A slew of tracks from artists like the Cool Kids, Diverse, & Hollywood Holt. I'm liking these tracks (Especially Good Guys by Proton). Check them out on the Player and if you like them, download them here.

Joe Budden - Who

2008-07-11T11:10:00.000-07:00

I'm liking how this is track is turning out. When I heard Part 1, I was waiting on Part 2. But even Part 2 has it's "To Be Continued" ending. How long is this song. This track is more of a vent of certain things that have been bothering him over the years. It's like he built up so much fustration with the industry and released it on this track with superb skill. Marvin Gaye's Inner City Blues is flipped so well. I should have sent him the beat I made from Inner City Blues a while back. Maybe I would be blogging about my own track right now. Oh well. I will be posting all the parts on this same post so keep checking for the other parts here (or go to "Joe Budden Who" label).

Who [Part 1]
Who [Part 2]
Who [Part 1, 2, & 3]
Who [Full] (thnx to 2DopeBoyz)

Gym Class Heroes + Busta Rhymes x Cool N Dre = Good Track

2008-07-11T10:57:00.000-07:00

This track is one that will be featured on Gym Class Heroes' album "The Quilt". Is it me or do Busta stay killin these tracks. This dude has really been going in as of late. Travis brings his normal flow to this one. The beat is produced by Cool N Dre (and it kind of sounds like Busta's We Made It which they also produced).

Gym Class Heroes ft. Busta Rhymes - Peace Sign Index Down (Prod. By Cool N Dre)

A Brazilian Hov?

2008-07-04T13:17:00.000-07:00

A lot of American Gangster remix albums have circulated around within the last 6 months and it seems like every producer has one in their catalogue. Man, even I did one (I never put it out there and never will. Ha Ha!). Out of the all of the remix albums, this one was most interesting to me. It has a more Bossa Nova, Jazzy sound to it (and I love jazz). This is the most laidback chill but still very musical version of American Gangster I have heard. I like how each beat crafted by Brazil 5000 gives new life to each track. My favorites are Roc Boys, Pray, Success, Party Life, I Know, & Fallin.

Jay-Z & Brazil 5000 - Brazilian Gangster

New Game/New Busta Rhymes

2008-07-03T19:03:00.000-07:00

Two new good tracks from 2 heavy hitters in the hip hop world. The Game's Dope Boys features Travis Barker on the drums and the beat is CRAZY!!! This is a nice one for real. Busta Rhyme's Missile in just classic Busta going hard on a track and the beat is also CRAZY!!! I'm lovin the samples on both and don't the Busta joint got a mean bassline? Ladies & Gentlemen, Hip Hop is in the BUILDING!!!!

The Game - Dope Boys

Busta Rhymes - Missile

Producer Of The Week: Black Milk

2008-06-23T21:46:00.001-07:00

Curtis Cross, better known as Black Milk, is a hip hop producer and MC from Detroit, Michigan.

He began his music career producing beats for his mother. In 2004, he formed B.R. Gunna, with Young RJ, and Fat Ray, and together they released Dirty District: Vol. 2, a follow up to a compilation released in 2001 by Slum Village in which he contributed production to also. Black Milk then released a solo album, called Sound of the City, Vol. 1, the following year and in 2006 he signed a record contract with Fat Beats Records. In the fall of 2006, he released an EP, entitled Broken Wax. 2007 saw the release of his second album, Popular Demand, on March 13, 2007.

In addition to Slum Village, Black Milk has worked with the likes of J Dilla, Elzhi, Phat Kat, Frank-N-Dank, Lloyd Banks, Canibus, and Pharoahe Monch, and handled almost all the production on T3's Olio mixtape of 2006.

In the Winter of 2007 Black Milk paired with Aftermath recording artist Bishop Lamont to release a mixtape entitled Caltroit, which was nominated for Best Hip Hop Mixtape at Justo's Mixtape Awards, putting him against the likes of Lil Wayne, Styles P, Big Mike, and DJ Khaled.

Black Milk will release a new album with Fat Ray entitled "The Set Up" on March 4, 2008. and looks to have his next official release "Tronic Summer" released in Summer 2008.

Personally, I have been following this dudes work for a minute. He is probably one of my favorite producers out now and I actually borrow a lot from him production style wise. Black milk has a sound very similar to the late Jay Dee (J Dilla). He is armed with heavy basslines, Dark snares, and very infectious kick and bass drums. He uses a style of sampling that is very different from many producers, chopping samples and arranging them in ways unthought of.

Production:

DJ KO ft. Skyzoo, Emilio Rojas, & Median - Start It All Over
Lloyd Banks - Death Wish (D-Block Diss)
Torae - Switch
Black Milk ft. Slum Village & Baatin - Action
Guilty Simpson - The Real Me
Pharoahe Monch ft. Mela Machinko - Let's Go
Black Milk - So Gone
Guilty Simpson ft. Black Milk & Sean Price - Run
Elzhi ft. Royce 5'9" - Motown 25
Pharoahe Monch ft. Mela Machinko - Bar Trap
Kidz In The Hall ft. Fooch - Middle Of The Map pt. 1
Black Milk - U's A Freak Bitch (Instrumental)
Three-1-Zero - Corie Blount (over U's A Freak Bitch Instrumental) [BrandNewBoombox Exclusive]
Black Milk - Silly Loops (Instrumental) [BrandNewBoombox Exclusive]

Ice-T Responds To Soulja Boy

2008-06-22T17:41:00.000-07:00

Okay, this is getting kind of lame. Please stop this because its very wack. Don't y'all got better things to do. Who would have ever thought that in 2008, Ice-T would have corny internet beef with a 17yr old rapper famous for lines like "Ya trick, Yaaa!!!".

Soulja Boy Responds To Ice-T

2008-06-19T22:07:00.000-07:00

This clip is funny. Ice-T who is a legend in west coast hip hop (and hip hop period) goes out and verbally disses Soulja Boy. As much as I agree that Soulja Boy's CD was pretty wack to me, I have to agree with much of what Soulja Boy said. Ice-T just really disrespected that kid saying what he said. And did Soulja Boy kill Hip Hop? No, Hip Hop is alive and kickin. Did Soulja Boy drop a slew of wack songs? Well, in my opinion, yes he did. Did he deserve the taunts by Ice-T. I don't think so. Soulja Boy is 17. Ice-T is 50. Ice-T just really made himself look like a kid. And yes, I do believe Ice-T was just trying to get back on the scene. Check out the Ice-T clip.

Dwele - Sketches Of A Man - 2008

2008-06-19T21:43:00.000-07:00

The soul vocalist behind hits such as Slum Village's "Tainted" and more recently Kanye West's "Flashing Lights" is back with yet another solo album. Sketches Of A Man is a great R&B/Neo Soulish style album lead by the clever single "I'm Cheatin'". Is it me, or is there a lot of talent being overlooked coming out of Detroit. Clear up some space on your ipods for this one.

Download

NYoil - Y'all Should All Get Lynched (Animated Version)

2008-06-19T00:25:00.000-07:00

This is the new animated version of the video. But here is the irony: BET gave the green light to create the video. That's really ironic. Maybe BET is trying to change their ways or maybe its an image move. Whatever it is, I like this video. They should air it on BET and I'm looking forward to more from NYoil (Hood Treason was a pretty solid album).

New Erykah Badu/New Nas

2008-06-17T11:02:00.000-07:00

The Erykah Badu joint is a Remix of the Healer (Produced By Madlib) that features Pharoahe Monch ("P is a walkin time bomb like tick tick tick tick...") who is an excellent addition to a track I already was feelin in this first place. Let's get a remix to Honey!!! The Nas joint features DJ Khaled (who actually is not annoying me much on the track) and has a beat (kind of sounds like that We Takin Over joint) that you would not fathom Nasir on. He killed the track though in typical Nas fashion.

Erykah Badu ft. Pharoahe Monch - The Healer (Hip Hop) [Remix] (Produced By Madlib)

Nas ft. DJ Khaled - I'm On

Producer Of The Week: DJ Toomp

2008-06-15T23:40:00.000-07:00

DJ Toomp (born Aldrin Davis in 1969) is an American record producer and DJ who works in Atlanta, Georgia. He is known for producing T.I.'s chart-topping hit, "What You Know." More recently, he contributed to production on Kanye West's Graduation, including producing the singles "Can't Tell Me Nothing" and "Good Life" with West, and the song "Say Hello" on Jay-Z's latest album American Gangster. He and hip hop veteran Bernard Parks, Jr. have launched their own record label called NZone Entertainment.

DJ Toomp is known for his unique snares that can be heard on almost every single T.I. song he produced since early 2000s.
He recently just earned his first R&B credit for producing "I'll Be Lovin' U Long Time", a track on Mariah Carey's new album, and calls it a "dynamite of a song".

Production:

Mariah Carey - I'll Be Lovin' U Long Time

T.I. - What You Know

Jay-Z - Say Hello
Pastor Troy - Ridin' Big
Nas - N.I.G.G.E.R. (The Slave & The Master)
T.I. ft. P$C & Young Dro - Bankhead
Kanye West - Big Brother
T.I. - 24's
T.I. - Be Easy
Eightball & MJG - Worldwide

R. Kelly Is Not Guilty???

2008-06-13T14:51:00.000-07:00

R. Kelly's trial has ended (it took forever for it to begin in the first place) as he was found not guilty on ALL charges. While this does not amaze me as I thought he would never go to trial (things would fade to black) in the first place, it does amaze me how a middle aged man could pee on and have sex with a thirteen year old girl on VIDEO and get away with ALL CHARGES!!! He is the new millenium OJ Simpson. The only difference is at least OJ didn't videotape himself killing his WIFE. Let's imagine that an average everyday guy had committed the crime. Right now, he would have already been in prison (for some years). Wow, celebrity is the best defense to any crime. Ok Kells, you made it past that one, but let's try to stay away from the little girls please (wow, what 13 yr old girl let's somebody PEE on them. There are 4 yr olds out there that would have beat fire outta him for trying to do that to them).

Little Brother - And Justus For All (The Album)

2008-06-09T19:55:00.000-07:00

"And Justus For All will be the 4th album but more like a official mixtape by American hip-hop group Little Brother. It is scheduled for release on June 10th, 2008 with seven all-new tracks on the iTunes version and five new tracks on the CD Version. As well as mastered versions of nine tracks from their 2007 Mick Boogie mixtape of the same name. "Black Light Special" features the duo teaming up again with their former group mate 9th Wonder for an instant head-nodder. "Black Light Special" will be available on the iTunes version only as well as "Do Ya Thang," which is one of four new tracks produced by frequent collaborator Khrysis."

-Wikipedia

I hear LB may never do another album together. Why did I see this coming? Little Brother will just be Phonte Coleman soon (not a bad thing, but don't you miss the Minstrel Show days).

Tracklisting

1. Can't Stop Us feat. Chaundon (Produced By: Young Cee)
2. Delusional feat. Oddisee (Produced By: Oddisee)
3. Life Of The Party Remix feat. Skillz and Carlitta Durand (Produced By: Nottz)
4. Best Kept Secret feat. Legacy (Produced By: RJD2)
5. Do It To Death feat. Rhymefest and Supastition (Produced By: Focus)
6. A Word From Our Sponsors feat. Von Pea (of Tanya Morgan) (Produced By: Khrysis)
7. Too Late For Us feat. Tye Phoenix (Produced By: DJ Spinna)
8. Cool As A Fan (Produced By: Khrysis)
9. Never Leave (Produced By: Kickdrums)
10. The Pressure (Produced By: Khrysis)
11. Lose It feat. Jozeemo (Produced By: Khrysis)
12. Fan Mail feat. Joe Scudda, Darien Brockington (Produced By: Babu)
13. Stylin feat. Oh No (Produced By: Khrysis)
14. Cross That Line (Remix) feat. Kardinal Offishall (Produced By: 9th Wonder)
15. Back At It (Remix) feat. Cormega (Produced By: Khrysis)
16. Time Of Your Life feat. Carlitta Durand (Produced By: Designated Hitters)

Download (non iTunes Version)

Celtics Win Game 2 (LOL @ Lakers Fans)

2008-06-09T00:35:00.000-07:00

Boston beat the Lakers, again. You could just see the anger in Kobe's face. Lakers made a good comeback near the end but sadly, it wasn't enough. Oh well, "Tough luck nigga" (c) Dave Chappelle. Let's see how the celtics do in LA.

New Nas (Official Single) - Hero

2008-06-07T14:48:00.000-07:00

This joint features Keri Hilson and is produced by Polow Da Don. The beat is a little techno-ish but has some good pop appeal and the lyrics are Nas-like as usual. Overall the joint is hot and I hope it gets that radio play.

Nas ft. Keri Hilson - Hero (Produced By Polow Da Don)

Skyzoo - Corner Store Classic (Remixes) - 2008

2008-05-29T19:04:00.000-07:00

Wow! I have been trying to find this forever (Digital releases are difficult to get your hands on) & here it is. Was it necessarily evil on my part to post this album on here or do I deserve bragging rights for being the person to create this link to be downloaded all over the world. Well hold tight and get ready to cop & go!

Download

Saigon Leaves Atlantic/Saigon ft. Red 5ive - Gotta Believe It

2008-05-21T15:08:00.000-07:00

Saigon Recently posted in his blog regarding his departure from Atlantic Records:

"Okay, where do I begin....

Once upon a time, I remember telling my homie Just Blaze that the ONLY way we would win was if we were to get off of Atlantic Records A.S.A.P... Most of you may not know but I have fought and fought and fought for the past year and a half to get out of that bad deal..I personally E mailed Julie Greenwald and Craig Kallman (C.E.O and President) and begged for a release from my contract numerous times.. I know some of you may or may not remember but I even went as far as saying 'I quit' or 'Im retiring' to get out of there. I figured if I said 'I quit', they would say 'well if he's not rapping anymore, we should let him go' but nope...They held me.. I even went and aqcuired the powerful services of Chris Lighty and Violator Management to help me get out of there but nope, they held me.. I was about to write the word SLAVE on my cheek like Prince or go CNN style and go flip over some computers or something... LOL

I was signed to Atlantic Records by Kyambo 'Hip Hop' Joshua. Hip Hop is one of the most creative and innovative people in this music business..He was the A&R on every Jay Z album from Reasonable Doubt to The Black Album so he knows and understands a real TRUE talent... But 4 months after signing me to Atlantic Records, Hip Hop quit and left the label because he didnt like the way they wouldnt let the real artist be themselves. They even passed on signing the legendary Devin The Dude because he wasnt 'young enough'...Wow.. When Hip Hop left I knew I was in trouble...BIG trouble...

Strike 1
I put out 2 songs on Atlantic Records, the first one was called 'Pain in my Life' feat Trey Songz. This song recieved GREAT reviews, massive press and was to set the tone as to who I am and the type of artist I am.. Atlantic Records felt I needed a party song, or a sexual song or something like the other artist they have up there. On one side of the token they're telling me they need to market me to the youth yet they want me to use adult content.. This didnt make sense to me. They wanted me to tell 12 and 13 year old kids that its cool to be strippers and gangbangers. I felt if they were going to market me to the young kids in the urban communities, I should be giving them something thats gonna be more beneficial than detrimental to their lives, like the importance of eduacation, safe sex, will power and shit like that. I live in these communities so I see the power and the effects this music has on our children.. We disagreed and I guess their way of saying fuck me was, they NEVER worked the record at radio.. They NEVER put me on a promo tour to work the record, and they gave me a measley 18 thousand dollars to shoot the video which was kinda insulting to me...

Strike 2
Okay, no love and support on Pain in my Life and at this point Im very discouraged because the record was doing very well on its own. Yet they would not support it.. Im on a hit television show Entourage on H.B.O, magazine covers, everything.. Yet still no support from the label. Okay we say 'lets try it again'... We give them 'Come on Baby' feat Swizz Beatz. Once again the song recieves great reviews, classic Just Blaze material. And once again, NO radio staff is working it, NO promo tours, not even a fuckin poster or an online banner.. NOTHING.. When it came time to do the video, they gave me 28K.. LOL... 10K more than the measley 18K they gave me for Pain in my Life.. Thats 2 videos for under 50K and this is supposed to break a new artist??? For those of you who dont know the business, the average cost for a decent video is between 100K and 150K for a new artist youre trying to break. Thats ONE video mind you.. They gave me less than 50K for 2 videos. They never worked either of the 2 songs at radio.. They never even made a Saigon poster...Lol... If you go up to the Atlantic offices their are pictures on the wall of artist you NEVER, EVER, EVER heard of in ya life.. and probably never will. I knew for a long time I was at the wrong place.. I like to tell myself that the money they were supposed to spend on my project just went to T.I's legal team and court fees...Then I feel they did something good with the money..Haha

Strike 3
Okay so now they shit on us again with 'Come on Baby', Im crying to leave the label but they wont let me go.. They wont push me, but they wont let me go.. So Just Blaze says 'okay, lets pull out the big guns'.... He gets the big homie Jay Z on the remix of Come on Baby (see page to listen) and can you believe these muthafuckas stiiiiiiiiiiiilll didnt work the record or give us what we needed to work the record... Here you have an new artist as handsome as me,(haha) as talented as me, on a hit television show, XXL and many other covers, mega buzz in the street and online, AND a song with Jay Z and Swizz Beatz you stiiiiillll dont push the button... There was nothing more I could do but take legal action to leave there..At first I was discouraged about the whole thing but then I started to think about T.I. on Arista Records, Lupe Fiasco on Arista Records, Alicia Keys on Columbia Records, 50 Cent on Columbia Records, DMX on Columbia Records. These are just a few of the superstars that werent on the same page as their first record company. And me on Atlantic, I refused to let them put out my album with no marketing dollars behind it.. My album is a masterpiece that will go on to make history.. I refused to let it be mishandled by some people who only care about a dollar when my music is about so much more than just financial gain...Once people realize money doesnt equal happiness the world will be a better place..I know alot of rich miserable people, rappers, actors or just plain businessmen that are hooked on drugs and shit because theyre trying to escape reality. The money dont mean shit...Lets talk about THAT..

Now to bring you all up to date...I am NO LONGER ON ATLANTIC RECORDS, thank you God. I took legal action and got my manager Chris, my lawyer Theo, my homies Gee Roberson and Just Blaze and we got the fuck up out of there... No, I didnt get dropped so you haters dont get excited, I fought these people very very hard to leave. When they drop you they keep your music and you dont have to pay them shit back.. Trust me, I tried to get dropped. I still own my masters so we have to give these bastards a whole LOT of money , BUT, we still own The Greatest Story Never Told which will be released this year with a company that Im sure will surprise the whole world once we let it out.. Nobody is gonna see this coming..TRUST ME. Im still rocking with Just Blaze till the dirt, Im still with Hip Hop Since 1978 till the dirt, we killed them with Kanye West, now we bout to kill em with Lil Wayne and Saigon comes soon after to play clean up.....Goodbye Atlantic Records, I dont know if it was systematic racism or the fact they didnt think they could break an artist with validity in his music who cares about the future of black children, but I guess we'll never know will we.....................???????????? So now you know why Ive been quiet the past year.. Ive been in battle with these people, and I WON.

Now check out my single Gotta Believe It...The one explaining my new beginning.....Peace.. Im off to China for Memorial Day weekend...Wow. Later Yall."

Now for the track. I really like this song Saigon has released. I think he has a lot of potential. He kind of reminds me of a young 50 Cent mixed with a little new Nas. If this song is any indication of how good the album will be, then I'm gonna have to get this with immediate priority. I just wish that Red 5ive wasn't using that voice synthesizer/vocoder on the hook. Wow, can we come up with something new people? T-Pain to Snoop to Wayne to Kanye & even Naledge has used that thing. Retire it!

Saigon ft. Red 5ive - Gotta Believe It

Saigon ft. Red 5ive - Gotta Believe It (Instrumental)

Jean Grae & 9th Wonder - Love Thirst (Video)

2008-05-20T14:57:00.000-07:00

Jeanius drops May 27th and with the release date drawing near, a video has emerged for the lead single "Love Thirst". So I decided to throw a couple of tracks @ you along with the video.

Jean Grae - Love Thirst (Produced By 9th Wonder)

Jean Grae - Love Thirst (Original) (Produced By 9th Wonder)

Jean Grae - Love Thirst (Instrumental) (Produced By 9th Wonder)

Jean Grae - #8 (Produced By Khrysis)

Jean Grae - #8 (Instrumental) (Produced By Khrysis)

New Little Brother/New Nas

2008-05-20T12:48:00.001-07:00

Two new tracks. One is produced by 9th Wonder & comes from Little Brother's new album, "And Justus For All". The other sounds like it is produced by Toomp & comes from Nas' new album (whatever he will call it I guess?). Personally, I like the Nas track better. The drums could have been louder though. I might need some time for the Little Brother track to grow on me.

Little Brother - Black Light Special (Produced By 9th Wonder)

Nas - N.I.G.G.E.R. (The Slave & The Master) (Produced By DJ Toomp???)

Nas changes Album Title From Nigger To Nas

2008-05-19T22:31:00.000-07:00

Yes, Nas will change the title of his next album from "Nigger" to "Nas" as reported by HipHopDX.com. The album title had been causing a lot of controversy and Nas finally gave in and changed the title. I respected Nas' decision to name his album "Nigger" in the first place. I knew there was a good reason for the title and that there was an overall message to be learned, but everybody doesn't catch on to messages the same. Imagine white teenagers walking into the record store and saying, "Can I get that Nigger Album". What!? Instances like that can create bad situations, so I'm actually glad he decided to change the title. The album will be as good with the new title.

Jean Grae Ft. Busta Rhymes - Love Thirst [Remix]

2008-05-17T03:50:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how dudes sleep on the lyrical abilities of both of these rappers. Busta has got to be one of my top 10 lyricists of all time. Yes, of ALL TIME!!! Dude can spit to just about any beat in many different styles, and its never whack. Jean is a beast too and she sounds exceptionally great over 9th Wonder production. Most people I know did not like this 9th Wonder beat but its cool for me to hear 9th switch styles a lil. Anyway, this track is fire.

Download

Bun B Feat. Lupe Fiasco - Swang On Em

2008-05-13T21:24:00.000-07:00

I'm a big fan of both of these rappers. Yes both of them. Bun B had nice verses but Lupe took the cake on this track (as usual). The beat was cool but the rappers were way better than this beat. Imagine these two spittin' over a better beat. That would be too cool.

Download

Kidz In The Hall - The In Crowd

2008-05-09T21:19:00.000-07:00

I've heard some pretty good tracks off of this album. But then again, I've also heard some not so good tracks (when compared to their first album). I don't know, I'm going to have to give this one a deeper listen. Enjoy!

Download

Urijah Faber vs. Jens Pulver

2008-05-08T14:43:00.000-07:00

On June 1 on WEC, the Featherweight champion Urijah Faber takes on Jens Pulver. This should be a very exciting fight considering that they are two of the most (if not the most) exciting fighters in their weight class. Jens Pulver is the veteran and is undefeated in this weight class. He is known in UFC for his hard heavy hits but on his WEC debut, he showed that he is more than a K.O. standup fighter submitting Cub Swanson to an anaconda choke in 35 seconds (yes, only 35 seconds!).
Urijah Faber, on the other hand, is just so innovative and unpredictable. The featherweight champ pulls off moves that I have never seen before. He always seems to be the more offensively aggressive fighter in all of his fights and he never seems to get tired. It doesn't seem like anyone in his division has given him much trouble at all. He is an explosive fighter, but he is also extremely calculated. But he will probably fight his toughest battle against Jens Pulver, who has really seemed to gain this strong killer instinct. Who do I think is taking home the gold? I have no idea but I do know that this will be a killer fight. If you like MMA, you'll love this fight. UFC fans, don't sleep on the WEC. They're bringing some really good fights to the table.

Who Likes Instrumental Albums?

2008-05-08T12:55:00.000-07:00

Here are three instrumental albums I really enjoyed. Producers take notes. Emcee's, spit that hot fire! (c) Dave Chapelle as Dylan

Pete Rock - NY's Finest (Instrumentals)

Download

Little Brother - Getback (Instrumentals)

Download

T.I. vs. T.I.P. (Instrumentals)

Download

El-P Remixes Kidz In The Hall's Driving Down The Block

2008-05-08T12:44:00.000-07:00

I still like the original better but this one ain't bad either. It's a different spin on the song. I'm not really in to El-P (I don't know much about him at all), but this sounds pretty good. I have to get that "The In Crowd" though. It sounds pretty solid.

Kidz In The Hall Ft. El-P - Driving Down The Block [Remix]

Lupe Fiasco & CL Smooth - Paris, Tokyo Remix

2008-05-07T12:12:00.000-07:00

I think Lupe and CL made a good team on this track. CL Smooth fit so nicely on the beat. It's not as long as the original but its good to hear a nice new CL Smooth verse. Unfortunately, Lupe's verse was the same.

Lupe Fiasco Ft. CL Smooth - Paris, Tokyo [Remix]