All Entries in the "The Studio" Category
Gucci Mane Releases ‘Trap House 3′; Still Goin’ In On T.I. & Young Jeezy
In what sounds like a more sinister side of Big Guwop, the rapper known as Gucci Mane is not holding back this time. Although, he has never known to be one to hold his tongue, Gucci is more direct than ever and everyone he doesn’t like is called out. This event in “Birds of a Feather” in which he goes in on T.I., Young Jeezy, Yo Gotti, and a few others. Why can’t we all just get along?!
Despise the “beef”, Gucci Mane comes hard with the beats on Trap House 3. The entire album is well put together and evident that some thinking was put into how songs would flow. This is always good. Nothing is worse than an album that you can tell songs were just thrown on there. No overall concept. No real flow. Nothing. Thankfully, the album contains some stand out tracks like ”Nuthin On Ya” and “Mama”.
On Trap House 3, Gucci enlists a few of his rap homies like Rick Ross, 2 Chainz, Wiz Khalifa, Chief Keef, Rich Homie Quan, and others. Gucci’s mixtape is straight. But what is strange is that it is now for sale on iTunes. Hhmmmm…could someone be blackballing him? Who knows. Luckily for fans, they can stream the new album for free and we got the link!
Take a listen below…
New Music: Ciara – “I’m Out” feat. Nicki Minaj
Ciara calls on Nicki Minaj for her official lead single from her new album. The beat-thumping tune incorporates a little African/Caribbean swag which is something new for Ci Ci. If this is produced by Sak Pase, which it does, then no wonder why there’s a Caribbean influence on this track. Nevertheless, it’s a cool song. Not necessarily spectacular, but okay for the clubs.
Check out Ciara’s new single “I’m Out” featuring Nicki Minaj below. Let us know what you think.
Video: K. Michelle’s “I Just Wanna” + New Song “V.S.O.P.”
K. Michelle may seem like a little fire starter. But, one things for sure, she’s very talented and is geeked that her time has come to share her music to the world.
On scheduled to be released on July 30, Rebellious Soul will be K. Michelle’s debut album. The album which will feature K’s powerhouse vocals, deep emotions, and life-long experiences may become one of the top releases of the year. As seen on VH1′s top rated reality show Love & Hip Hop Atlanta, K. Michelle has made it known that this year she’s focusing on the music. She signed a deal with Atlantic Records despite the bad reputation of being a bit off and hard to deal with. Trying her best to remove that belief from her life, she’s been hard at work in New York pulling this project together.
To get her music in the mix of all the other vocalists in the game, a while back she released a video for “I Just Wanna”. The song sounds classical but the words are much more revealing than expected. In it, she tells her suitors that there are times when females just want to have sex and not involve everything else. This is true in that there are women who prefers the occasional hook-up rather than a full blown relationship. Check out video below…
In other K. Michelle news, the lead single to her upcoming album Rebellious Soul is out. The song “V.S.O.P.” is a pretty cool track that is backed by an old school sound, which K. Michelle gracefully let her man know how he’s very special. She speaks on their history and how meaningful their relationship is.
Take a listen to the track below…
“V.S.O.P” is now on sale via iTunes!
Nightlife: Trill Ent’s Webbie & Bambino Gold Performs @ Inner Circle
If you are familiar with the south side of Atlanta, club Ritz on Old National Hwy is no longer. It is now called the Inner Circle and is steadily regaining its reputation as the hottest nightclub on the south side.
Each and every week, Da Link Ent., DTLR, and Streetz 94.5FM come together to bring Atlanta livest party on a Thursday night. Many artists has graced the building and turned it up. This past Thursday (May 16), Trill Entertainment’s own Webbie was in the building to perform his new hit “This Is What I Do.” Turk was scheduled to appear but there was some miscommunication on the booking end. But also on deck was Bambino Gold who set it off with “Pop Dat Pu**y/Shake Dat Azz”. A few others at Inner Circle that night was Poncho Da Don and El Chapo.
Our boy Windsor Jones and What’s Goin On TV was on the scene to catch all the behind-the-scenes action.
Check it out…
New Music: Verse Simmonds – “Fully Loaded” feat. Young Jeezy
Virgin Islander, Verse Simmonds has returned with a smooth summertime groove. The “Fully Loaded” track features Young Jeezy and is produced by Verse’s own production team, Sak Pase. This is truly song that will maintain the mood at any pool party or night out with your boo thang. Check it out for yourself below…
No word yet on when fans can expect a new project from Verse Simmonds. But, we’ll stay tuned.
New Mixtape: Gangsta Boo – “It’s Game Involved”
Remember Triple Six Mafia…the energetic rap group from Memphis, Tenneesee that birth Juicy J, DJ Paul, and a raw and uncut female rapper name Gangsta Boo? Well, if you do or you don’t, one third of the group is back in full effect.
Gangsta Boo made us all fall in love with the anthem “Where Dem Dollars At?”. It was only a couple females that spit hardcore rap lyrics in the 90′s. Therefore, she had a lane that only she could maintain with the raunchy sex talk, dope boy storytelling, and empowerment for the females who kept it hood. It is evident today that her departure from the group hasn’t stopped her grind and tarnished her swag. In this new mixtape It’s Game Involved, she’s giving the fans what they’ve been waiting on…that old Gangsta Boo. The 19-track project is primarily done under the production supervision of friend and Memphis native, Drumma Boy. Other production features include DJ Montay, Furoche, Purp Dogg, Almighty, Hank Iving, KM On Da Track, DJ London, and Eric Dingus.
As far as rap features, Big K.R.I.T., Young Buck, Bun B, Maino, 8-Ball, Don Trip, Young Turk, La Chat, and others show up and show out for the southern rap legend. She’s definitely been missed and I think everyone that listens will be presently surprised. She hasn’t lost her mojo. Stand out tracks are “Bodies”, “First Date”, “Bad Times”, “Talk Nasty”, “Dark Shades”, and “I’m Hustlin”.
Listen to the live stream below and download It’s Game Involved over at Livemixtapes.com!
Music Review: Laura Mvula – Sing To The Moon
Laura Mvula is an artist that I have no familiarity with. In fact, I know about her from the Facebook ads that I kept seeing. From what I have read, she is from the United Kingdom with Jill Scott, Lauryn Hill, and Erykah Badu as her musical influence. Being that this is her first album, it made me ponder some things. With Sing To The Moon, I wondered if she would be original or a mash up of her influences.
After giving this album a thorough listen over the past few months, I must say that she is an original.
With a commanding voice and angelic tone, Laura can easily enchant ears with her singing. Listen to “Green Garden” and one would be grooving right along with her swaying lyrics. Also, giving “Father, Father” a listen only adds to her ability to captivate ears with her vocal abilities. The relationship strengthening “Unbelievable Dream” is so impressive due to the conviction of her voice. With a style like no other, Laura makes use of her gifts to catch the attention of her audience.
To assist the uniqueness of her vocal approach, producer Steve Brown created soundscapes that are both enthralling and enchanting. Each and every track, from the auditory delight that is “Jump Right Out” to the piano driven “Diamonds” bring music that encapsulates the ears. More than anything, the sound of that Steve Brown created is made for an orchestra and a big arena. To put it bluntly, this production is made to be heard live in person.
With an album like Sing To The Moon, Laura Mvula is winning. Her voice and vocal arrangements only make the listener concentrate. The music by producer Steve Brown beguiles the ears to take note even more. As of right now, she isn’t known stateside. However, with given time and promotion, Laura Mvula can become respected and adored.
New Vids: Fat Joe feat. Wiz Khalifa & Teyana Taylor – “Ballin” + The Dream’s “IV Play”
Fat Joe, Wiz Khalifa and Teyana Taylor are all about the stacks in Fat Joe’s new song “Ballin’.” Fancy suits, mansions, jewelry and expensive cars make their rounds as the three drive home the money, money, money theme of the song in the recently released video.
“Ballin” is lifted from Fat Joe’s upcoming album The Darkside Vol. 3 which is scheduled for release for a summer release.
Check out the Elf Rivera-directed video for “Ballin” and below and look out for cameos to include the likes of Trey Songz and Scott Disick.
With the release of The Dream’s upcoming album IV Play about a week away, he getting his fans ready with the release of the video for the album’s lead single of the same name.
In the video The Dream sings about his sexual desires showing his naughty side all while surrounded by beautiful ladies that are sure to appeal to his male fans. Check out the visuals for The Dream’s “IV Play” below.
New Music: French Montana Feat. The Weeknd – “The Gifted”
The release of French Montana’s debut album Excuse My French is less than 24 hours away and he’s getting his fans ready.
While he’s been a constant on the music scene lately, he’s making his presence even more known with the release of a new track. Check out his new song “The Gifted” which features The Weeknd. Be sure to let us know what you think about the song in the comments.
ASCAP Deems Usher Worthy of a Golden Note
Throughout his career, the eight-time Grammy Award winner Usher has definitely stood the test of time when it comes to his musical talents securing him a solid place in the entertainment industry. So much so that Usher will now join the ranks of other industry vets such as Quincy Jones, Jermaine Dupri, LL Cool J, Jay-Z, Lionel Richie, Alicia Keys and Sean “Diddy” Combs when it comes to receiving the ASCAP Golden Note Award.
The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) presents the award annually “to songwriters, composers and artists who have achieved extraordinary career milestones.” Usher will receive the award at ASCAP’s 26th annual Rhythm & Soul Music Awards which takes place on June 27th in Los Angeles.
On why ASCAP thought Usher was worthy, the organization’s President and Chairman Paul Williams said in a statement, “Usher’s musical evolution over the years clearly proves his versatility and longevity as an artist, performer and songwriter. The world has moved to his music for nearly two decades. Happily for the rest of us, from the sound of his latest work, it’s clear that the beat will go on and on. Usher is the perfect candidate to receive one of our top honors – the ASCAP Golden Note Award.”
About the honor and the obvious power move this is on his list of achievements, Usher said, “I take the art of songwriting and music-making very seriously, so to be given the ASCAP Golden Note Award from an organization of my fellow music creators is a huge honor. I’ve been blessed to have such a wonderful career, working with some of the most talented people in the business, and I am just getting started!”
I must say that this is definitely well-deserved especially considering he’s sold more than 50 million records worldwide! Congratulations Usher!!!
New Music: B.o.B. – “HeadBand” feat. 2 Chainz
Ok…it sounds like B.o.B. is rejuvenating our crazy obsession with whistling on songs. In his new song, “Head Bang” he’s “whistling dixie” as he talks about his infatuation with a particular young lady. Off of his upcoming Underground Luxury album, B.o.B. enlists ATL rapper 2 Chainz to add his special sauce to the track. As confederate as the whistling sounds, the track is perfect for the clubs. If you’re doing the two-step or backing that a** up, it doesn’t matter. Everyone will still be able to get their boogie on.
Take a listen to B.o.B.’s new joint below and let us know what you think.
New Music: Ciara – “Body Party” Remix feat. Future & B.o.B.
On July 9, the world better get ready. Although, it’s been a long road for Ciara in this music business, she’s been able to maintain her relevance and push out a few good songs. Well now she’s back working with LA Reid and is ready to give us all she got.
“Body Party” her latest release garnered quite a buzz in the past few months. The ’90′s throwback tune is a classic amongst the Atliens who partied in local hot spots like Club 559, XS, Sharon Showcase, and Jelly Beans. So, it was clearly a no brainer to include her boo Future and Grand Hustle’s B.o.B to the “Rich-mix” (since both emcees are from Atlanta). Take a listen to the remix below:
For what we know now, Ciara’s self-titled album will feature collaborations from Nicki Minaj and Future. Production credits will feature joints from Mike Will Made It, Rodney Jerkins, The Underdogs, and others. You can pre-order a copy of the album on iTunes now.
Nightlife: What’s Goin On TV Invades Club Deja Vu
When the sun goes down, the city of Atlanta becomes wide awake as many of the locals hit the streets. Known as the city that parties seven days a week, one hot spot in particular packs’em in for a guaranteed good time. Well, our folks at What’s Goin On TV recently hit up Club Deja Vu to get a glimpse of its nightlife and to support rapper Parlae. Check out the behind-the-scenes footage below:
Kelly Rowland Airs It ALL Out in New Song “Dirty Laundry”
Kelly Rowland is coming out hard with her new song “Dirty Laundry.”
Not only are her vocals on point, but the transparency of herself in the lyrics drive it all home. In her new single, Kelly is uncut about her feelings when it comes to struggling with her career whims, watching Beyonce’s rise to the top and dealing with a chaotic and abusive relationship.
“Dirty Laundry” was produced by The Dream and is from her upcoming album Talk a Good Game. Listen to “Dirty Laundry” below.
Vid: Pusha T – “Numbers On The Boards”
As a fan of Pusha T’s, his latest video took me back to the 90′s. That was time when east coast rap was in the forefront and you had great producers/artists like DJ Premiere, Das EFX, Smith & Wesson, Wu-Tang Clan, and various others give music back then a certain sound. Well, Pusha T’s “Numbers On The Board” give me that same feeling. It’s simple but unique sound, along with the Jay-Z sample, makes the song somewhat nostalgic. Kanye West and Don Cannon was probably he best choices to produce the track. Kanye is great for his unique cadence and sound choices. While, Cannon is known for his sampling technique. On top of that, you can’t deny Pusha’s a beast with the bars.
This joint is setting the tone for his upcoming album release. We can’t see what else is in store. But for now if you want to reminisce a for about 3 minutes, check out his new video below:
Pusha T’s My Name Is My Name is scheduled for a July 16 release.
New Vid: Kendrick Lamar – “B-tch Don’t Kill My Vibe” feat. Mike Epps
Finally, Aftermath/Interscope put the money up for Kendrick Lamar’s hit “Bitch, Don’t Kill My Vibe.” Considering the album was released months ago, none of Kendrick’s fans didn’t anticipate it would take this long to release a video. Anyhoo, the fans can be happy now. The new video is simple, but somewhat befitting for the California emcee who is lowkey and isn’t one to praise materialistic things. It’s about time an artist say F-k the big booty hoes, flashy jewels, and Bugatti’s in their videos. This is why Kendrick get so much respect. He is in his own lane…and he owns it.
The video features comedian Mike Epps. Take a peep and let us know what you think.
Music Review: Chance The Rapper – Acid Rap (mixtape review)
When I kept seeing Chance The Rapper’s name around the internet, I always wondered “What the hell is supposed to be so good about this guy”. I never truly gave him an honest listen. Yet, there has been a clamor over the release of Acid Rap. So, being the inquisitive reviewer I am, I decided to download his music and give him an honest spin. I am happy to say that this is the most surprisingly dope music I have heard this year.
Keyword: surprisingly. I wasn’t expecting anything.
It is hard to pinpoint Chance The Rapper as an emcee. He is serious, ad-lib heavy, and nonsensical in one fell swoop. This is the same young emcee that will make inspirational jams like “Interlude (That’s Love)” and then come with something as irreverently foolish as the Action Bronson assisted “NaNa”. Showing great appreciation for hip hop, he brings the Slum Village sampled “Everybody’s Something”. Even the overtly serious “Acid Rap” works within the mixture of this album. Quizzically, Chance The Rapper brings a miscellaneous mixture of ideas, tracks, inspirations, and approaches to make a gumbo of an album.
The production on this album tends to work with whatever Chance The Rapper is feeling like at the time. For example, Ceej of Two-9 brought up some old school R&B sampled for the madness that Chance got to relay on “Pusha Man”. Another example is when Nate Fox brings classical Jamaican riddims on “Favorite Song”. Even further is the moody boom bap that Jake One brings on “Acid Rap”. It is safe to say that “monotony” won’t be used in reference to the production on this mixtape.
Chance The Rapper has made himself seem distinguished on Acid Rap. Although many won’t take to his rhyme style or ad-libs, there is a chance that they will respect his charisma and lyrical ability. He also has an ear for diversity in the production he selects. Just making it out of high school, Chance The Rapper looks to be in a prime position to make hip hop a lifelong career move. As long as he keeps making music from the heart, he will be just fine.
New Video: John Legend – “Who Do We Think We Are” feat. Rick Ross *NSFW*
John Legend is definitely in a sexy mood these days. His latest release “Who Do We Think We Are” can be considered borderline soft porn. The models bare naked breasts and sensually move about the video showing graceful love to party goers. The special added touch comes from Rick Ross, whose flow seems to fit right in since he’s been on that smooth boss sh-t lately. Visually though, this video does a fine job capturing the human body which is considered the purest art form.
As long as you are in a NSFW environment, take a peep at John Legend’s new video below.
Music Review: Spree Wilson – Life In Technicolor Vol. 1 (EP)
Spree Wilson is both inspired and inspirational. Being the Atlanta-by-way-of-Nashville artsy musician (of sorts), he has strong roots in the Atlanta sound. Yet, it took a precise time partying in LA for him to be inspired to make a modernized version of the same Atlanta Bass music that he grew up on. Inspirationally, he completed an EP to give the world a proper taste. Life In Technicolor Vol. 1 is the proper appetizer for people to understand part of what inspires Spree to be musically stimulating.
Instead of coming off as a half-cocked mockery of a time long gone, Life In Technicolor Vol. 1 is actually a new take on music that should be still made. Playing like a DJ Jelly hosted WATN, the party starts with “Right One, Wrong Time” with its ode to meeting something under shaky circumstances. With that same WATN radio hosting, the EP drifts into the slow dance worthy “My Boo” sampled “All I Need”. Finishing off the EP is the Big K.R.I.T. assisted “All Night Long” and “Starships”. As short as the EP is, Spree covers a lot of musical bases.
What is even more intriguing is the fact that the production would work in 2013 and back in 1995-1996. The slow grind inducing “All I Need” would manipulate anybody to hit the dance floor for a slow dance. In contrast, “All Night Long” would get the skaters moving at the Cascade. “Right One, Wrong Time” would make the house party jump. It can be easily said that The Flush made sure to cover their source material with an updated twist.
Spree Wilson took a great risk with concocting such a “retro-future” album in Life In Technicolor Vol. 1. What he offered in knowledge and effort more than doubled in execution. The rhymes on here are both dense and digestible. The production by The Flush is easily ATL party worthy. Spree Wilson, along with his production cohorts, have easily crafted an EP that can fit into any summertime play list.
New Music: Jaheim’s “Age Ain’t a Factor”
I don’t know about you but I’ve been wondering where Mr. Ghetto Love has been. It’s been three years since Jaheim has given us any of his good old R&B swag. But the wait is over because he’s got a new song on the radar. His new single “Age Ain’t a Factor”, is featured on his upcoming album which is scheduled for release later this year.
About his upcoming album, Jaheim said, “It’s been so long since I’ve had a chance to create music from my heart for the fans that have loved and supported me from the start. I decided to call the project ‘Appreciation Day’ because that’s exactly what this album is. My show of appreciation to them.”
Take a listen to “Age Ain’t a Factor” below.
Chrisette Michele Releases More New Music + Tracklist For Upcoming Album
In preparation of the release of her fourth studio album, snazzy soul singer Chrisette Michele has released the third single from the compilation.
With her tracks her lead single “A Couple of Forevers” and “Charades” featuring 2 Chainz already in the air, Chrisette is adding more to her aura with her new song “Let Me Win.” The track features a replay of the drum line on Eric B & Rakim’s classic “Paid in Full”. Take a listen to “Let Me Win” and check out the tracklist for Chrisette’s upcoming album Better which drops on June 11th.
Better Tracklist
1. ‘Be in Love’
2. ‘A Couple of Forevers’
3. ‘Let Me Win’
4. ‘Rich Hipster’ feat. Wale
5. ‘Love Won’t Leave Me Out’
6. ‘Interlude (In My Head Better)’
7. ‘Better’
8. ‘Snow’
9. ‘Visual Love’
10. ‘Charades’ feat. 2 Chainz
11. ‘Interlude (In My Heart Convo With Boyfriend)’
12. ‘You Mean That Much to Me’
13. ‘Supa’
14. ‘Interlude (In My Bed Sleeping Alone)’
15. ‘Get Through the Night’
16. ‘Can the Cool Be Loved’ feat. Bilal & Dunson
New Mixtape: DG Yola – ‘Neva Gon Stop 2′ + “Stay Focus” Video
Well, the A-town rapper told us he’d never stop with this rap game. He’s back. Our boy DG Yola is stepping things up on his new mixtape release. Neva Gon Stop 2 is the follow-up to his first mixtape that hit the streets after his return home from lockdown. NGS2 is not cosigned by DJs. It only have only one or two features. But, that’s what’s cool about this project. It shows that Yola can stand alone. He doesn’t need all the extra hype.
NGS2 is a worthy listen and download. It does feature production by platinum-producer Midnight Black, Zaytoven, and others. Several songs like “Good Pussy”, “She Shine With No Lights On”, and “U Bad” are all catered to the ladies. So, the hood chicks and boss b–ches out there will appreciate Yola for recognizing them this time around. Don’t worry though…the rest is strictly for the fans and folks that can relate to Yola’s struggle and life experiences.
To download a copy of Neva Gon Stop 2, go to livemixtapes.com!
New Mixtape: Hustle Gang – “G.D.O.D.” [hosted by DJ Drama & DJ MLK]
Lately, there’s been several “gangs” or label crews popping up out of no where. Well, Grand Hustle is the next up to do so with their pack of emcees called Hustle Gang.
Their first compilation project, G.D.O.D. (Get Dough Or Die), was released to the masses yesterday. Headed up by The King, Clifford “T.I.” Harris, G.D.O.D. features most of the top tier rappers affiliated to the Grand Hustle label: Trae The Truth, Young Dro, Chip, B.o.B., Iggy Azalea, Michel’le, Travi$ Scot, Doe B, Big Kuntry, Shad Da God, Yung Booke, Spodee, Kris Stephens and Mac Boney. However, several familiar names appear on the new mixtape like Lil Duval, French Montana, Meek Mill, Mystikal, and Problem.
The overall mixtape is pretty impressive. The Hustle Gang is definitely trying to make a statement with this one…lyrically their team can spit with the best of them. With the inclusion of several production picks that seem out of the norm for Grand Hustle, G.D.O.D. is solid enough for a download and several listens.
So, listen to the free mixtape below and let us know what you think!
New Music: Tamar Braxton – “The One”
OKAY! She did that!
Tamar Braxton released a new track today that has been on repeat all day. “The One” is a feel good R&B joint perfect since the summer is on its way. It samples “Juciy” which gives the song that old school hip hop feel. In case you haven’t heard it, take a listen below…
“The One” can be purchased now on iTunes. Also, make sure you tune in to The Braxtons on Thursday on WE Tv!
Hot 97 DJ Mr. Cee Says “I Am Not Gay” After Recent Arrest
Hot 97FM’s DJ Mr. Cee is back in the news again for soliciting a male prostitute.
Last week, Calvin Lebrun (aka Mr. Cee) was arrested in New York after picking up a “female” prostitute. The prostitute turned out to be an undercover cop. The legendary DJ aired out his disappointment this morning on Ebro Darden’s radio show. He claims that he was a target in a sting operation. According to the DJ, he stopped to make a phone call. This is when the prostitute walked up to him and offered up sex. He claims that the officers story changed around and said that it wasn’t a female, but actually a male.
The arrest follows another incident in which Mr. Cee was caught picking up a male prostitute. This second time around has really caused many of his supporters and industry peers to question his sexuality. Mr. Cee insisted that he is not gay during his radio interview.
“Let’s say if I’m lying, that’s my choice,” Cee proposed, after a Hot 97 DJ began to play Aly-Us’ “Follow Me,” a ’90s dance record often associated with the gay club community. “If I’m lying and I chose not to come out, that’s my choice.”
Due to the recent events, Mr. Cee says he will be stepping away from his radio gig for a while. He has been seeking therapy for his prostitution addiction. Whether he is gay or not, the DJ definitely has a problem that he need to correct. Hopefully, this new arrest has taught him that as a public figure these type of acts are embarrassing and detrimental to his career.
Get it together, Mr. Cee…
New Mixtape: Bloody Jay – ‘Get It In Blood’ [hosted by DJ Scream]
Who is Bloody Jay? I asked myself that a few months back while scrolling through my Twitter timeline. So, I Googled him to see what I could find out. After finding a mixtape and couple pictures, to my surprise, the rapper is affiliated with Rocko’s A1 label. Interesting…
I listened to a couple songs. I realized there was something different about Jay’s voice and delivery. Standing out from the crowd, especially in Atlanta, is always a good thing. So, Bloody Jay and the A1 family apparently knows this, because lately there’s been buzz building for the rapper. Rocko has made mention of him several times to the press (as he make his rounds after the success and controversy of his “U.E.O.N.O” song). Usually when the boss shots you out, this mean that you are of some sort of importance. Bloody Jay is next up from the A1 camp.
On Sunday, Bloody Jay’s Get It In Blood mixtape dropped at 5:55pm. Hosted by DJ Scream, the sound of the mixtape may be unexpected for some. Although the distinct flow that Future has made popular is copied at certain times by Bloody Jay, he is able to remain unique with his deep tone and lyrical content. If A1 exploit his differences and work with a versatile group of producers, I think Bloody Jay can solidify his spot in this game. The last thing we need is another rapper sounding like Future or Rocko.
Essentially, Bloody Jay is worth a listen and a download. Check out Get It In Blood on livemixtapes.com.
Music Review: Ghostface Killah – 12 Reasons to Die
Ghostface Killah is always good for putting out some music. The only problem is that his last albums either wasn’t up to snuff or were ignored. However, liking up with Adrian Younge is part of Ghostface’s efforts to keep making greatness. With that comes 12 Reasons To Die, his concept album. Following a gangster that is murdered and resurrected to raise hell on his enemies, listeners find Ghostface doing what he does best: make great music.
On this particular project, Ghostface turns down his highly abstract lyricism to tell a story of hood lore. “Rise Of The Black Suits” brings light to the main character’s rise into prominence. But, the DeLucas wasn’t trying to have that, which leads to tracks like “I Declare War” and “Enemies All Around Me”. Eventually, he is set up to be killed on “An Unexpected Call (The Set Up)” just to be resurrected on “Rise of the Ghostface Killah”. By the time the album makes it to the title track, listeners know why there are “12 Reasons to Die”.
What is even more compelling than the story is the production provided by Adrian Younge. The clever breakdown on “The Sure Shot (Part 1 and 2)” allows the drum rhythm to morph into something more sinister once the drums drag out and slow down. Meanwhile, the production on songs like “Blood On The Cobblestones” gets freaked by scratches, a drum break, and great sampling. Adrian made sure that the songs had ample production filled with breaks, live instrumentation, and nicely laced vocal samples. This is even more evident on tracks like “Center of Attention” and the resurrection based “The Rise of the Ghostface Killah”. Thus, it is easy to hear that Adrian Younge brought his “A” game in production.
In the end, 12 Reasons to Die is a crafty possession for any fan of Ghostface Killah and Adrian Younge. Instead of the regular stream of conscious flow, Ghostface tells a consistent tome about a drug dealer getting revenge for his double cross. Seemingly, Adrian Younge comes with a soundtrack that only adds to the story and constructs musical environments. Many were excited to hear that they both were responsible. Nevertheless, Ghostface and Adrian did what they set out to do: create a completely cohesive unit of music that could easily serve as a movie within itself.
On The Block: STORi Signs w/Motown Records + “Just Another Day” feat. Juelz Santana
Well, she’s may be a little too experienced to be featured in our On The Block series. But considering that we’re here in the south and haven’t heard of her, this could easily justify her entry. 
Meet STORi. The New Jersey singer/songwriter has been making moves for a while. Apparently, those moves must’ve paid off. She recently signed a deal with Motown Records. Her ability to paint vivid pictures with words helped her stand out from the crowd. STORi mixes rap verses with some dope melodies…reminiscent of Lauryn Hill with a little Joss Stone included.
Point is…she sounds good. Her peers seem to think so as well. She teamed up with Juelz Santana on the Queen Latifah-inspired track “Just Another Day”. The song is featured on FunkMaster Flex’s Why You Mad At? Me Or Yourself? mixtape. Take a listen and let us know what you think.
Also, STORi premiered an exclusive track with Trinidad James called “Pocketbook”. You can check it out on her official website www.IAmStori.com.
She’s definitely an artist we’ll be sure to keep up with!
On The Block: K Hawk
Kendrick La’Dale Hawkins Sr (aka “K Hawk“) is a 21 year old emcee from Belzoni, Mississippi. He has been entertaining for several years but decided to take a serious approach towards his music in his freshmen year of college. Kendrick gave away 100 free mixtapes of his first mixtape entitled “Most Likely To Drop Hits” as promotion to other students in 2011. In a week, his name and songs had spread across the campus to more than 3000 students on a 7500 student campus. He has performed at many clubs and successfully entertained the audience with dances and great songs! Backed by Push Power Promo, Kendrick is now on his way to taking his career to the next level.
Take a listen to two tracks submitted by K Hawk called “Turn Up” and “Let Me Get In”. Both are pretty nice and could be possible club bangers.
“Turn Up” – Direct Download
“Let Me Get In” – Direct Download
For more information on K Hawk, email his camp at khawkkhawk20@yahoo.com.
Master P Celebrates B-Day + His Greatest ‘No Limit Records’ Hits [Videos]
Percy “Master P” Miller, the CEO of No Limit Records, celebrated a birthday on April 29. He turned 46 years old. Thinking about the label and the contribution he made to hip hop, one can’t deny that Master P help revolution the culture and set the bar for independent artists.
Over the span of his career, Master P has accomplished more than most in the music game. With an estimated net worth of $350 million, P. Miller (as he’s called now) didn’t take an easy road to gain his riches. In fact, he’s been business savvy since a young age. His tough street mindset and gold grill didn’t deter him at all as a businessman. From the gate, P. Miller established himself as a man who went after his dreams. His label No Limit Records started off its road to riches in a record store and by the distribution of CDs out of the trunk of Miller’s car. Once establishing itself as a label to be reckoned with, No Limit Records sold millions of records spanning from 1993 until 2013.
Outside of music, P. Miller continued to brand himself and venture into other areas. He produced several movies, started a entertainment and financial management company, a foundation, and has his own television network. His work ethic and knowledge of the business passed on down to his own children Romeo and Cymphonique, of which both have solid careers in music and film.
To celebrate P. Miller’s birthday, let’s take a look down the road of No Limit Records at some of the hits that put the New Orleans music legend on the map.
“Bout It Bout It” – Master P feat. Mia X
“Make’em Say Ugh” – Master P feat. Mystical, Silkk The Shocker, Mia X
“Ice Cream Man” – Master P
“Heaven For A Gangsta” – Master P
