cavscorner

What's the Hook Gonna Be?

2019-09-02T23:14:00.002-04:00

"Ooo ooo, did you hear that, do you recognize it?" I ask my wife all the time.

I've always been fascinated with the origin and history of song's hooks, lyrics, chorus, beats, you name it. It makes me giddy to hear something I've heard before--not just because of the feeling of familiarity, but also because it's like finding a hidden clue and then it begs me to solve the puzzle.

A while back now, we had the chance to see Jay-Z, our seats even got upgraded to floor seats just about 5 rows away from the man himself. One of the songs that hadn't ever caused much of a stir in me, that hit Elicia, was Jay's "99 Problems". So I went down this path of examining the lyrics, and started getting caught up in the connections in the hip-hop scene.

So let's start it off with the history and connections of "99 Problems". Wikipedia does an excellent job already so I won't try to pretend I uncovered much more than contributors have already.

In summary, it all started with Brother Marquis of 2 Live Crew and Ice-T having a conversation back before 1993...and subsequently released in Ice-T's "99 Problems" on his Home Invasion album, and then a slightly tweaked version by Marquis in the song, "Table Dance".

Here are the songs:
Ice-T - 99 Problems (1993)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bicN4ryVQSI

2 Live Crew - Table Dance (1996)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ChhhXnogmYg

Then, over 10 years from the first time the hook materialized, Jay-Z releases "99 Problems" in 2004
https://vimeopro.com/somesucharchive/mark-romanek-12-02-15/video/95947494
(sorry YouTube doesn't have it..Tidal is going to be HUGE ya'll)

Ice-T isn't the originator of all the songs you've listened to. Let's take one of his songs where he brings in a classic to one of his songs.

"I'm Your Pusher"from Ice-T (1988)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_nODi6OECzs

Then Eminem takes it for a spin and puts his own flavor on it, of course, in "I'm Shady (1999)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2wYWdcanEIc

Already, ready for it? Where did the hook for these songs come from? Curtis Mayfield's 1972 song, "Pusherman". In this gem, he communicates a powerful, simple, and straight-forward message stemming from the drug problems ravaging inner-city America at the time. Damn.

Anyways -- the point here is, I love chasing these things down and knew I had to share this journey with you. I hope you enjoyed it. If so, and if I can actually keep up with this blog moving forward, I'll turn it into a little series. For now, just happy to finally get a post up on here after years.

Molly Moore, More Good to Come

2016-11-14T16:23:00.001-05:00

Life is hard.
Listen to beautiful music while you can.

With Wide Eyes, it's SKYES

2016-05-06T13:26:00.002-04:00

It's a beautiful day here in Seattle. I knew when I woke up this morning, I needed to pass the music of SKYES along to everyone to get the day on the right path--for that matter, the weekend.

The new Quarks EP had me excited after I first got a taste of the melodies that are both soothing and strong. I started the EP with "Dry"because it's the most-hyped on the EP. Sometimes I like to start with the hype song to see if the band will be something I can get into or not. It's not a perfect science, sometimes I am compelled one way or the other and it helps though.

"Dry" starts off like the perfect beach song, soft and smooth. Fifty-one seconds into the song however, it turns into a real listening experience that you don't want to miss. It's the kind of song that makes you turn up the volume and picture the story in your head. It's moody, but the composition of the song still keeps it positive.

I then had a good listen of "Give Me More", and this song seems to better showoff Dallin Knightly's (vocals/piano) range. It has a slow rhythm that again is strong, and a powerful reflection of the group. At the 2:50 mark you feel that power surge through, and it breaks into a Kavinsky-feeling beat, that I loved.

Give it a listen, and support them by filling up your weekend playlist with their new EP. Nice work guys. Their official website can be found here: https://skyesmusic.com/

There's Always Tomorrow

2016-02-08T20:55:00.000-05:00

"It's been a long time, I shouldn't have left you, without a dope beat to step to." -Timbaland

This quote never was so applicable, despite it being something I seem to bring up all the time in casual thinking of music when things happen. I know many of you have probably lost hope on this blog, but I also have hope you haven't. Almost three years it's been in the back of my mind, and I'd like to try to catch up.

I'll start with some recent things and then work my way backwards with a few mega-posts after I think of a good way to compile some music I've found and loved over the years.

For now, check out GUNSHIP

Their self-entitled Gunship album (released in 2015) starts with "The Mountain", and twelve tracks later you've been transformed back into the 80's. The way I found out about Gunship was rolling through the depths of Reddit and stumbling upon track three's music video for "Tech Noir".

Bask in it's glory

It's quite ridiculous, but c'mon how good is the music and claymation? 5/5 stars.

I can't believe I hadn't seen it up until now, and I hope you feel the same. Enjoy the album and let me know what you think. Would also love any messages on whether you prefer single artist posts or mega song-dumps.

Thanks for reading as always, and welcome back.

Plenty of Fish in the Sea

2013-06-15T15:47:00.002-04:00

Great group, some real catchy songs. Fun music videos don't hurt either. Love the poking they do on music, it made me remember that there is something special about "real instruments". No hate for the digital game though, none whatsoever. Just different and each have such great merits.

Enough about my philosophy, check out Goldfish's "One Million Views".

SIR SLY?

2013-03-19T18:10:00.000-04:00

So is "SIR SLY" read like "seriously" or "sir sly"?

The grainy sound of his voice and the piano are fun, reminds me of a more dance-y Edward Sharpe. What do you think?
Regardless, I at least know they are pirates. Both the "Easy Now" and "Gold" music videos feature a never ending stream of sailing through the water. Made me remember those days out on the deck of the MV explorer, when I most missed my loved ones back home. (listen to "Ghost" with the video of "Easy Now" playing muted to feel it)

Boys Noize and Classixx

2013-03-13T16:48:00.000-04:00

Boys Noize is certainly not new to my music collection, but boy are they blowing up. Justice remixing their ICH R U

Check out the original first

Watch out Daft Punk? No but seriously, I am working on my keyboard-keys-suit now for Halloween. Dibs.

BNR 100 is out March 18th incl. ltd. 12"Vinyl. (100th release on Boysnoize Records) Best of luck BN.

Now onto something that is new to me. Classixx. Ironic right?

Beginning reminded me of something Calvin Harris would spit out, but then it soon became too groovy. By too groovy I mean just the right amount of that Chromeo flair. My recommendation on this song, turn it up. The subtle sounds that comprise this song are outrageous. Love it. Great work and can't wait to check out the rest from Classixx.

Beatboxing Inspector Gadget Remix

2013-02-12T17:46:00.000-05:00

Oh goodness...

Stay tuned for more ladies and gents.

I'm a Mess

2012-09-19T20:02:00.003-04:00

Woke up feeling terrible this morning, had a ton of work to get done so I found myself working instead of sleeping it off. I enjoyed being able to play the music at home instead of headphones today, and was really happy when this new gem from Body Language showed up in my inbox today. How appropriate is this title on a sick day?

Thanks for coming back, I swear once I am married I will have some more time to post here; let me know what you think about a themed month in November. Get pumped.

Chromeo Hot Mess of Remixes

2012-02-26T00:32:00.006-05:00

Sure, I love Chromeo. I usually would steer clear of anyone who tries to remix Chromeo, just for the sheer fact that their originals are just stellar. However, I have been following their new stuff closely and it is time to share these beauts with you. All are up for download, while supplies last.

The first one almost made my ears bleed with the high hat (may have been the fact that I forgot my volume was all the way up when I plugged in my headphones). After a brief heart attack, around 53 seconds into the song it smoothed everything over and made it all better. This is that kind of song you have to take a shower after. It's just that funky. What!?

This next one by Skream emphasizes the vocoder talk-box skills of P-Thugg, which is always a bonus to me. Love it. The soft vocals lead you right into a remix that sounds like it could have been on the album, doesn't detract too much from gold of Night By Night.

I had to pull this one out too, a little homage to Whitney Houston--R.I.P.. One of my all time favorites, Hood Internet pulls together Whitney's vocals along with the acoustical genius of Chromeo for one killer sound. I think it goes to show you how classic their sounds truly are, all while still managing to bring something new to the table.

Like it? Love it? Share it.

A Big Jet Plane Brun Bootleg

2012-02-22T15:54:00.001-05:00

This post was inspired by Senora Amanda V. who reminded me that I never posted the remix of Angus and Julia Stone's Big Jet Plane here. When it comes on in my car I am immediately relaxed. Somehow the remix does a good job at maintaining the serenity of the song while exposing it's melody in a way that speeds it up.

Enjoy Michael Brun's interpretation and make sure to keep an eye out for his other stuff, it won't disappoint.

Play and Free Download

Capital Cities Makes Me Feel Safe

2012-02-03T17:11:00.005-05:00

This is just incredible, at first I felt the Daft punk vibes, then my ears were blessed with the sensation of some vocals that flowed perfectly with the synth. I am a sucker for a good build up too, and this song nailed it. Just try and not get pumped up. I dare you.

If you liked this and want to see more, help support the site by liking us on the right ----------->
and if you like this there is always the post liking love below

The original is everything you would hope for in a song. The beat is good, the lyrics, the sound, it all paints a beautiful picture. It cheers me up, gives me energy, and reminds me of those sweet summer nights driving too fast to beat the drive-through closing with a car full of friends.

Mark my words here, Capital Cities will be the next big thing. Support them now and be one of those cool kids who knew what was cool way before everyone else did.

From Capital Cities directly (thanks guys, you rock) : Check out the video too

Imogen Heap Just for Now Remix by Gosteffects and Rule of Eight

2012-01-17T16:37:00.001-05:00

This is a bootleg remix of Imogen Heap's "Just for Now" by Gosteffects & Rule of Eight.
This remix was inspired by Clams Casino's track "I'm God," in which he he chopped up the vocals of "Just for Now" for the hook of the song.

The build up to the 0:28 minute mark is well done, and then it hits you all of a sudden with "this song is going to kill it". And boy does it...at 1:21 it heightens the excitement and then brings you back to earth, then teases you again as every dubstep should. Well played Gosteffects, well played.

Share the love and listen, download and support.

Milli Show Goes On by Slug Fest aka Cap P aka DJ Laryngitis

2012-01-17T15:49:00.000-05:00

So this one is real underground, you probably haven't heard of the artist because he spends most of his time working with me. Cap shared some music he worked on and I wanted to highlight my favorite of the bunch. I think the chorus works really well with the slowed down lyrics from Lil Wayne. However, what song hasn't Lil Wayne killed? There is no denying it. Lupe adds the production value here from "Show Goes On". Glad to see the "A Milli" cut from the background.

It reminds me of his recent VH1 True Story of an Artist where I learned Young Carter almost died after playing with a gun in his own house jamming out to some music. Had to throw that in there.

Listen to the other songs and comment, let him know what you think. These are what he is whipping out with little experience so should be great to follow his progression.

Enjoy

Goon & Koyote - Wellness is Wild

2012-01-11T14:38:00.005-05:00

Alright, I admit it, I left you high and dry. I have been focusing on work and just plain forgot about you. No one says it better than Timbaland though...

And now for a new song for you, the bass in this Dre Skull remix keeps the song dance-able but otherwise I found it to be a soothing song to peep while getting those reports finished. Either way, turn the headphones up and keep the bass on about +2. The subtle beats are just so well done, big ups to Dre Skull and of course Goon and Koyote.

GOON & KOYOTE - Wellness Is Wild (Dre Skull remix)

Remix of Diplo's Horsey

2011-11-15T03:27:00.002-05:00

Hey Party People!

I have gotten some really good tracks in my SoundCloud account lately and I wanted to throw this one out there immediately because it woke me up from a long day at work. Part of the MadDecent Horsey Remix Contest I think it would be a great interlude, something to loop and tell everyone in the crowd how sexy they are and then bust that midi at 1:30 out to get the party jumping. I think this one takes the cake out of the mixes I peeped.*

Get up on it and Ride that thang.

Just scouted this one too...what do you think? I like how it invites me to the most amazing fair the city could throw, then lures me into a haunted house of pure-dance ecstasy.

*Sergio Paramo has a pretty wicked take on the song too if you like house-y horsey ;)

My Midnight City

2011-10-29T19:23:00.001-04:00

Talk about a hiatus, I have been all over the place except here. I hope you guys missed me, I missed you and I miss taking the time to watch music videos, listen to tracks and make some choices on what I love and what I want to share with you.

So want to know why I have been gone? I got a new job that is just "wow" in every sense of the word. Lots of rewards and much to be gained but like anything it takes a full tank to get there.

I moved across the country, great road trip with a rockin' dude and gave us a chance to see the world while pumping up the jams and keeping the tires warm. It was a blast.

This thing called packing, unpacking, furniture shopping, and breathing got in the way of my normal schedule.

Well so that's the story, I am back and ready to bring you the freshest and the bestest.
This one is a great tune by M83, crank it up when you are walking in a city by yourself. It gives you the confidence to continue your strut, the bravery to walk alone at night, and the motivation to skip in a big crowd.

Enjoy ;)

Chromeo Depicts my Life When the Night Falls

2011-08-21T18:17:00.001-04:00

Alright, so as many of you might know my life is really just a magical dream. I have tried to break it down and figure out why I am so fortunate, but it is just occurring and I don't want it to stop.

This song kind of explains how things can take a turn for the worst but then lead you in the right direction.

The direction of making people pregnant with you amazing beats?

YES.

The female vocals bring you back a few years...as do basically all of Chromeo's songs but that is aside the point. This song exemplifies all that is good with keyboards. If you don't find yourself smiling to the melody, or the smooth lyrics then you might want to check out your eardrums.

Enjoy

Kiosk - Varda Bebar (Take it Away)

2011-08-06T17:01:00.001-04:00

Thanks to Negar for this one!
I just really liked this, the music and the video. I don't know what is being said so fair warning there, who knows. Maybe Negar can translate it for us in a comment or tell me and I will update it here. My interpretation: the dude needs to clean his room.

Anyways, enjoy, it is a calming diddy with some fun kicks.

Oh Amy, Don't Go

2011-07-26T22:49:00.000-04:00

Although you were a absolute mess Amy, I still loved your unique voice and great songs. Not to mention I am a sucker for a girl with dark hair. You will be missed. In fact, MIA already has a track for you. (well it was originally for Vicki Leekx)

Curtains up for "27" a dedication to those lost at the mere age of 27, and a nice little beat. MIA always does a good job.

Rest in Peace, best of wishes to your friends and family.

-Cavscorner

Sesame Boys

2011-07-21T19:17:00.003-04:00

This is just simply fantastic. I mean Beastie Boys and the boys at Sesame Street? Perfect. I have for many days past been saying how great it is to watch cartoons on mute with your stereo blasting, it's hilarious when things start to match up.

Enjoy.

Brought to you by the letter E.
(for Elicia, thanks!)

Sak Noel - Loca People

2011-07-16T13:04:00.001-04:00

Ok ok ok Max, you made it. Despite the fact that the song has some obvious flaws (NSFW and language alert for those with morals ;) it wouldn't stop ringing in my head and has earned the star of "Cavtchy" (what do you think of that?)

Without further ado...

Le gente esta muy loca!

Bounce (DJ R3hab Remix)

2011-07-10T17:52:00.000-04:00

Calvin Harris feat. Kelis - Bounce (DJ R3hab Remix)

This one comes from the man, the legend, the Protoss queen. Matt J. Thanks Matt!

Another good addition to the world of Calvin Harris, DJ R3hab, thats Rehab for all of you cool kids out there not in on the L33T 5P3AK

And the breakdown:
Nice build up to 30 second bounce edit
Hit that higher note at 43-55 and make me happy
Cue beat at 1:02, great timing
Throw some overlay, OK no need to get fancy, keep it straight to 1:45, at least for personal listening. Great for the club
I see sweaty hair flipping around to this 1:45-2:15
I prefer the sound cut to be harsher and then come back in my face with a song like this, the slow build up is not good for my dance routine... ;)
Wishing I heard more bounces by this point, however I can't stop bobbing my head (3:35)
The ending minute+ are definitely there solely for mixing purposes, I lost interest at 4:15, should end with the bounce in my opinion

Keep posting and sending me videos, I will keep tearing them apart and loving them and sipping on my hater-ade as necessary.

Cheers

Keep Shining

2011-07-08T11:34:00.002-04:00

For those of you out there that have been by my side, you know things have been in a rough patch for me lately. I thank each and every one of you.

This song is keeping my head up, and hey the good news is I will be giving you guys the music updates and news you want and NEED now. Get ready people.

So everyone, Keep Shining.
-Cav

P.S. Now is a good time to start playing some Xbox...On sale at Target 1 Day only

Eric Prydz Pjanoo

2011-06-30T14:47:00.001-04:00

I think I might say fantastic too much, but this song...is fantastic. It is absolutely epic, the beat is catchy, and the video reminds me of one of my favorite books/movies "The Indian in the Cupboard".

I want to get some dancing lessons, and dance to this song tonight. Who is with me?