Slept on Rappers

Manna - Fried Fish

2011-11-02T13:59:00.001-07:00

This one is featuring Swizz Beatz on the beat!

Manna - No Title

2011-06-16T17:14:00.001-07:00

Shit is dope as fahk

Prince Ali

2011-03-26T15:57:00.000-07:00

At a time when emcees have found themselves driven by material motivations, it can be hard to find creativity amongst the masses of rappers aspiring to prominence. The latest emcee to emerge from the Bay Area, prince ALI, is an exception to this rule. On his debut album, Curb Side Service (Hiero Imperium), Ali's inspirational lyrics are complemented by equally rousing, head-nodding beats. Featuring guests such as Keith Murray, Pep-Love, Planet Asia, Tajai and A-Plus of Souls of Mischief, Rakkaa of Dilated Peoples, among others, Curb Side Service is one of the most impressive albums to come from the Bay in years. Just take Ali's personal favorite, "The Majors" featuring Casual, Planet Asia, and Keith Murray. "Building with some of my favorite emcees was truly a humbling experience," admits Ali who still remembers the excitement he felt when he heard Keith's classic joint, "The Most Beautifullest Thing in the World," on the radio in 1996. And for those sleeping on the west coast, just check "California Cliff Notes" featuring Pep Love and Ali, trading verses over a classic Cali soulful riff. But Ali tackles assorted topics on his debut album. On "Way of the Warrior," Ali illuminates a situation where he was exposed to the shady side of the bizness. "One the greatest things about making music is that you can use it as a vehicle to express emotions," Ali explains about the inspiration for the track. "But like all mistakes, it was a valuable lesson," he adds. "Some people immerse themselves in music when they make a record," notes Ali, "but I virtually stopped listening to it. It was in that solitude that I was able to focus inward, and the album came to light. And to be working with Hiero is a sign that things have come full circle for me. The love for the art form existed before Hieroglyphics, but it became a realistic pursuit after they emerged," he adds, "I remember growing up in the Bay, wanting to be 5th member of Souls of Mischief." "Hiero has always been about putting out quality music," notes Tajai CEO of the Bay Area based label, Hiero Imperium, and now we're at a point where we can focus on the new, up and coming talent. Ali is an artist who embodies Hiero's vision and we're excited about supporting him." Born in Oakland and raised in Hayward, California, Ali started writing at the age of nine, and hoped to hoped to one day make records of his own. "It was all over for me after seeing RUN D.M.C with Dominique DePrima on the television show 'Home Turf' in 1984," says Ali, who received his MFA at NYU's Tisch School of the Arts. "It just sparked something inside me and I knew I wanted to be an emcee." Undoubtedly, Ali's spiritual life has also profoundly influenced his music. "Sound affects your mental state. It can leave lasting impressions on a persons being. Music is a weapon, a tool, and at its best a vessel for change." Production on Curb Side Service is shared by Destruments, along with CHIII, Skavenger, and the Roy Butterfields Project.

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Single: The Path / Honor Code

Chosen Few

2011-03-25T16:12:00.000-07:00

Good hip-hop is more than just dope music. It also delivers messages that resonate with its listeners. Much like the socially conscious enery of Public Enemy, Poor Righteous Teachers and the X-Clan, the Chosen Few are scholars through hip-hop, spreading their infectious tunes laden with throught-provoking messages. The Chosen Few knew the implications involved when choosing such a bold statement as their moniker. However, it perfectly embodies the trio’s sentiments and overall mission of artistic and social freedom. The group comprised of Cold Showda, Charles “Chop” Cooper and Unjust have traveled long and far, both physcially and figuratively, to release their long-awaited debut album, New World Symphony, slated for release January 9, 2010 on Hiero Imperium Records. Originally from Ohio, home to legendary funk artists like Bootsy Collins, The Ohio Players and Lakeside, the three independently migrated to the progressive Bay Area in the early 2000’s after recognizing the limitations of their small market, in search of musical and personal diversity. Chop and Cold Showda immediately felt right at home and started performing together as the Greans, sharing the stage with such acts as Mos Def, Common, The Alkaholiks, Slum Village, and Bootcamp Click while Unjust shaped the visual presence of famed indie label ABB Records and a bevy of artists including Little Brother, Hi-Tek, Strong Arm Steady, Planet Asia, Tek9, J. Dilla, A.G., O.C., Nappy Roots and Dizzee Rascal. Drawing from personal experiences, the Chosen Few have witnessed their fair share of injustices and tragedies that would make most people run for the hills. All three continuously give back to their community when not on the road. Unjust works with at-risk-youth, Cold Showda as a mental health counselor, and Charles Cooper as a coach and teacher. \"Being that we all are involved in education and pro-social work we value certain ideals\", says Charles “Chop” Cooper. \"Integrity, unity, good work ethic, being genuine and innovative, and valuing the importance of personal relationships, these are the values that we want to shine through on this album, for the listener to enjoy.\" It took a few years and several solo ventures, not to mention a host personal trials and tribulations, before the three came together in 2008 to record New World Symphony, an album they hope fans will not only appreciate, but identify with. New World Symphony features Unjust\'s soul and pychadelic rock laden beats, Cold Showda\'s relentlessly agressive lyrics, and Charles \"Chop\" Cooper\'s masterful saxaphone playing and lyricism. The 19-song album is full of powerful messages - from the urgent, call-to-action title cut, “New World Symphony” to “Believers,” an autobiographical account of their childhood home and the devastating impact the recent economic climate has had on Ohio. Making guest appearances on the album are Del the Funky Homosapien (“King Kong”), Pep Love and Rakaa Iriscience (“It’s Good), Tajai (“Belly of the Beast”), Opio (“Elevation”), Piakahn (“Ride”) and more. With the release of New World Symphony, the Chosen Few are kick starting their mission “We want to encourage listeners to empower themselves by realizing that they have the influence to not just choose what music they want to listen to but the power to carve their own paths and seperate themselves from the flock,” says Unjust. “The power of choice lies in all of us.”

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Single: Understanding

Royce Da 5'9

2011-03-24T10:10:00.000-07:00

Ryan Montgomery, born and raised on the West Side of Detroit, Michigan in the W. McNichols & Wyoming Ave. area, moved to Oak Park, Michigan when he was 10 years old, later acquiring the nickname "Royce" during highschool after wearing a Turkish link chain with an R pendant resembling the Rolls Royce symbol. He began rapping at 18, influenced mainly by Ras Kass and Redman. He signed his first deal in 1998 with Tommy Boy Records, after Tommy Boy Records shut down, he signed a deal with Columbia Records where he started recording an album called Rock City, referring to Detroit's former status as home to Motown Records. When the project was heavily bootlegged, Royce left the label for Koch Records to re-record some of the album, eventually releasing it in 2002 as Rock City (Version 2.0). While the album did not sell very well, the DJ Premier-produced single "Boom" gained 5'9" some underground recognition and eventually resulted in the two working together more closely.

Through his manager, Royce was introduced to Eminem at a show in 1997, and the two formed a working relationship; they formed up as a duo, Bad Meets Evil, and released several tracks together. Royce appeared on Eminem's debut studio album The Slim Shady LP, in which he was featured on a song called "Bad Meets Evil". Royce and Eminem also released a track called "Renegades", from which Royce's vocals would later be replaced with Jay-Z's on the latter's The Blueprint. Through Eminem, Royce would also be introduced to both Dr. Dre and execs at Game Recordings. After his manager revealed that Royce was involved in writing the tracks "The Message" and an original version of "Xxplosive" for Dre's 2001 (entitled "Way I Be Pimping"), Dre requested that Royce cut ties with his manager. Royce refused to fire his manager and his relationship with Dre ended.

After his release in 2007, Royce went on to link up heavily with DJ Premier and Statik Selektah, putting out the mixtape The Bar Exam, an internet release which was critically acclaimed. He also announced an album with Premier; in an interview with Elemental Magazine, Royce stated that, contrary to rumors, Premier would not be producing the entirety of his upcoming album, but will be overseeing the project as executive producer, handpicking all of the beats. Following The Bar Exam, Royce wrote the single for Diddy's album Press Play, "Tell Me". Following this, the producer expressed interest in signing the lyricist to Bad Boy Entertainment; Nas has also stated that he would like to sign Royce to his Def Jam imprint, The Jones Experience. Neither of these deals, however, materialized.

In early 2008 Royce confirmed that he has officially resolved misunderstandings between himself and Eminem. Eminem told Royce that he has "some of the best shit recorded right now that he's ever done in his life." He explained that a recording session between the two has yet to take place, despite rumors about a reunion track produced by DJ Premier. 5'9" digitally released The Bar Exam 2 with DJ Green Lantern later in the year, as well as a retail version of the mixtape, called The Album; the projects featured production from Green Lantern, 9th Wonder, Premier and 6 July, among others. Later worked on his Premier-assisted retail release, Street Hop, the lead single of which was "Shake This", also produced by DJ Premier. The video to the song circulated the internet, and the project was released 20 October 2009. The album was well received by critics.

Joe Budden reached out to Crooked I, Royce da 5'9", Joell Ortiz, and Nino Bless for a track titled "Slaughterhouse" on his digital release, Halfway House. Based on the reception of the track, they decided to form a super-group, minus Nino Bless, and named it after the first song they made together. They released numerous songs throughout early 2009, building a buzz for their self-titled album, which was released through E1 on August 11, 2009. The album features production from The Alchemist, DJ Khalil, Mr. Porter, Streetrunner, plus guest appearances from Pharoahe Monch, K. Young, and The New Royales. Royce is currently in talks to sign with Shady Records, as are the other members of Slaughterhouse; recently he has stated several times that the deal will be wrapping up within the next few weeks. The members of Slaughterhouse were seen in the music video for the song "Forever". In addition, he, Eminem and Shady/Aftermath producer Mr. Porter made an appearance on radio host Tim Westwood's show for a freestyle session. The group have now signed a deal with Shady Records.

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Single: Part of Me

Joell Ortiz

2011-03-23T10:08:00.000-07:00

Joell Ortiz is an American rapper of Puerto Rican descent. Joell Ortiz was born to Puerto Rican parents. Ortiz grew up in the Cooper Park Houses in the East Williamsburg section of Brooklyn, New York formerly signed to Dr. Dre's Aftermath Entertainment record label. He was featured in the Unsigned Hype column of the March 2004 issue of The Source Magazine and was also selected as Chairman's Choice in XXL Magazine. During the same time Joell also went on to win the 2004 EA Sports Battle which earned his song Mean Business a spot on the NBA Live 2005 soundtrack. The same year he was offered a contract to Jermaine Dupri's So So Def label. The deal quickly went sour which caused Joell to start beef with Jermaine. Joell has since collaborated with KRS-One and Kool G. Rap. Joell released his street album called "The Brick: Bodega Chronicles" April 24, 2007 on Koch Records. The album was recorded while Joell was trying to get signed and going through some tough times personally. Even though he was signed to Aftermath Entertainment, Dr. Dre allowed him to release the street album on Koch Records. The Brick features productions from Showbiz, The Alchemist, Domingo, Ho Chi from Killahertz Productions, Lil’ Fame of M.O.P., Novel, and Moss, among others. Guest spots include Big Daddy Kane, Styles P, Big Noyd, M.O.P, Akon, Immortal Technique, Grafh, Ras Kass, Stimuli, and Novel. Joell Ortiz is 1/4 of Super Group Slaughterhouse who drop their highly anticipated EP entitled, Slaughterhouse EP on February 8, 2011.

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Single: Call Me

Crooked I

2011-03-22T09:50:00.000-07:00

Dominick Wickliffe, better known by his stage name Crooked I, is an American rapper from Long Beach, California. Crooked I is currently CEO of his own record labels, Dynasty Entertainment and C.O.B. Digital as well as Senior Vice President of Treacherous Records. Before starting his own label, he was also signed to Virgin Records and Death Row Records.

Joe Budden reached out to Crooked I, Royce Da 5'9", Joell Ortiz, and Nino Bless for a track titled "Slaughterhouse" on his digital release, Halfway House. Based on the reception of the track, they decided to form a super-group, minus Nino Bless, and named it after this song. They released numerous songs throughout early 2009, building a buzz for their self-titled album, which was released through E1 on August 11, 2009. The album features production from Alchemist, DJ Khalil, Mr. Porter, Streetrunner, and guest appearances from Pharoahe Monch, K. Young, and The New Royales.

On February 27, 2009 in Long Beach, California, Crooked I was allegedly shot at during a conversation with a fan. The conflicting early media reports on the incident in the following hours initially left people worried and uncertain on his condition, but he has since confirmed to MTV News and other media that he's alive and, while mentally distracted, physically well. Crooked I has declined to further elaborate on the incident, citing where he's from its against the code of the streets.

On November 10, 2009, Crooked I released a digital-only solo EP, Mr. Pig Face Weapon Waist. “It’s a spin off of my Slaughterhouse alter ego,” he said of the odd title, “cause I come out on stage with a pig mask and a Dickie suit on.” The EP also boasts guest appearances from Snoop Dogg, K. Young, M.O.P., The Horseshoe G.A.N.G., and of course fellow Slaughterhouse members, Joe Budden, Joell Ortiz, and Royce Da 5'9". In addition to production from Komplex, Scram Jones, Streetrunner, Frequency, and P. Silva.

After briefly considering plans to release a full length Mr. Pig Face Weapon Waist LP in January 2010, Crooked I revised his priorities and announced Million Dollar Story, to be released in 2010. Production for the album is to include contributions from DJ Khalil, The Alchemist, and newcomer Quest. In addition, Crooked I stated his intentions to get DJ Premier beats for the album. As of August 2010, Crooked I stated Million Dollar Story should be released in early 2011. It has now been confirmed the official release date for the album will be March 22, 2011.

The new owners of Death Row Records, WIDEawake Entertainment, released a Crooked I album called Hood Star on June 15, 2010. It has 15 songs Wickliffe recorded while signed to the label, with guest appearances from Juvenile, Too Short, Kurupt, Danny Boy, Ray J, Sisqo, and others.

On August 17, 2010, Crooked I released yet another EP, titled Planet C.O.B. Vol. 1, which features production from Rick Rock, Komplex, and more.

On December 1, 2010, the first single for Crooked I's official debut solo album, Million Dollar Story was released on iTunes titled "Villain", which features Gracie Productions recording artist Sally Anthony.

On January 12, 2011, after months of speculation, Slaughterhouse officially signed to Shady Records, along with artist Yelawolf.

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Single: Mr Pigface

Joe Budden

2011-03-21T09:49:00.000-07:00

Born in Harlem, Budden lived in Queens until he was 12 and from there moved to Jersey City, which he still calls home. He is one of five boys (one older brother and three younger brothers - two are twin brothers). Budden heard music in his home (his father is an emotional multi-instrumentalist) and on the streets while he grew up.

In the year 2003, Budden released his debut solo studio album, Joe Budden. It included Budden's 2003 Grammy-nominated summer hit "Pump It Up", and was also featured in the soundtrack for the movie 2 Fast 2 Furious and the video games Def Jam Vendetta & Def Jam Fight for NY. The song "Focus" was also featured in the game and Joe Budden was also a character. Its second single was "Fire" featuring Busta Rhymes, which was in the movie Mean Girls. The song "Drop Drop" was featured on the soundtrack for the movie Cradle 2 the Grave. Joe has hinted in many songs that he was a recovering drug addict. Joe has reaffirmed his position as a recovering addict several times through multiple outlets.

After his debut album, Budden's sophomore release titled ‘The Growth’ was hampered due to the label's problems with Joe and his Def Jam seniors not happy with the direction of his music. The production of the album appeared to end up in a development hell and was ultimately not released. Continued disagreements between Budden and Def Jam forced the two sides to part ways. However, Budden managed to release the first and second installments of his Mood Muzik mixtape series while on Def Jam, and the series has been met with critical acclaim.

In December 2007 Budden signed a multi-album deal with Amalgam Digital and released his independent debut Padded Room as well as Mood Muzik 3: The Album, Halfway House, and Escape Route.

Joe Budden reached out to Crooked I, Royce da 5'9", Joell Ortiz and Nino Bless for a track titled "Slaughterhouse" on one of his Amalgam Digital releases, Halfway House. Based on the reception of the track, they decided to form a group, minus Nino Bless, and named it after the first song they made together. They released numerous songs throughout early 2009, leading up to their self-titled album, which was released through E1 on August 11, 2009. The album features production from Alchemist, DJ Khalil, Mr. Porter, Streetrunner, plus guest appearances from Pharoahe Monch, K. Young, and The New Royales. The group signed with Shady Records on January 12th, 2011.

Many of Joe Budden's relationships with women have been in the spotlight, most notably his 5 year relationship with model Tahiry. He is currently dating model Esther Baxter. He has also been romantically linked to models Gloria Velez and Somaya Reece.

Budden has a son from a previous relationship. In 2010, he was wanted by New Jersey police in relation to unpaid child support payments.

Budden has also been in the spotlight for his numerous controversies with other rappers including Ransom, Game, Saigon, and an incident involving several members of the Wu-Tang Clan.

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Single: Fire

Slaughterhouse

2011-03-21T09:40:00.001-07:00

Stay tuned for the Slaughterhouse group to be posted up

Knobody

2011-03-20T15:47:00.000-07:00

Since the age of 16, Knobody has been busy developing his unique blend of rhyme & spoked word (coined as \"Rappetry\") to become one of the most recognized young emcees in the Bay Area hip-hop scene. Knobody began his career selling EP\'s of his rhymes in &; around the streets of the Bay for $2 a pop. He showed his passion &; dedication to the craft a few years later, when what began as a joint effort between several fellow artist became his 2001 solo debut \"Tha Book of Mathieu\". With a great deal of underground buzz & success of the album & subsequent mixtapes, in 2006 Knobody took his talents across the Bay Bridge to San Francisco where he dominated Philip Drummonds monthly \"Beats, Rhymes & Life\" song competition at the Element Lounge. Dont mistake him for a battle rapper though, the point of the contest was to craft the best complete song, not to freestyle or diss the other emcees. His reign as champion only ended when he was asked to step down & become a judge of the competition to give the other rappers a chance. From there, Knobody\'s career began to gain serious momentum. In late 2006, Hieroglyphics emcee & resident A&R man, Casual, happened to be at a show that Knobody was performing at. Casual couldn\'t stop listening to the CD Knobody had given him months earlier, &; within weeks Knobody was negotiating a deal with Hiero Imperium to become the first member of their new Triple i League crew. Casual has high praise for him- \"Knobody\'s well of rhymes runs deep. The only other emcee I\'ve heard who can stay on the same subject throughout a song without having to switch up is Eminem.\" Anyone who is familiar with Casuals formidable skills knows that this is not praise to be taken lightly. In September 2007, Hiero Imperium released Knobody\'s first (official) project \"Tha Clean-Up\", a heavy hitting, fully realized album that aims to do what a clean-up hitter does on a baseball team: smack one out of the park. Knobody has re-teamed up with Da Beathoven(Scion/Roland 2007 King of the Beats Champion), Retro(the Tones), & other friends & fellow artist and in 2011 is set to release his follow up, tha GO AHEAD, Knobody looks to pick up right where he left off...\" With his next album highly anticipated, & touring in & around the country becoming a regular thing, one thing is certain...the \"Kno-Show\" is just getting started!!!

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Single: On My Job

Casual

2011-03-19T15:46:00.000-07:00

1994's Fear Itself is of significance to Owens' career. It is his only major label-marketed album and features various members of his crew, Hieroglyphics, on vocals and production. The album also features a prominent cameo from Bay Area rapper Saafir. The album follows a traditional format: its songs adhere to a verse-chorus-verse arrangement, and the up-tempo and slower tracks are contrasted against each other. The popularity of the album's second single, "I Didn't Mean To" exposed Owens to a wider audience. He released three follow-up albums after "Fear Itself", one of which ("He Think He Raw") was distributed by Sony-affiliated distributor Red Urban. Owens is now a community activist. In 2006, he took on a role as Music Production and Media Arts Consultant at Youth Uprising. Jonathan Owens currently holds a seat on the City of Oakland Board of Cultural Affairs. Owens is also CEO of Hiero Jeans.

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Single: That's How It Is

Pep Love

2011-03-18T15:42:00.000-07:00

Born and raised in Jackson, Mississippi, Pep Love relocated with his family to Oakland, California as a teenager. In Oakland, he partnered with fellow DJ/producer Jay-Biz to create the group, The Prose. The Prose was later incorporated into the underground hip hop collective, the Hieroglyphics, in 1995. Pep Love is a practictioner of Capoeira martial arts, and is also a vegan. Pep Love made his recording debut on Casual's 1993 release, Fear Itself. The Prose released their debut album, The Shamen, in 1993. The album featured appearances from Hiero members, Del tha Funkee Homosapien and Casual. Pep Love released his solo debut album, Ascension in 2001 and Ascension Side C in 2003, through the Hieroglpyphics' self-owned, independent label, Hieroglyphics Imperium Recordings. He also contributed significantly to both of the Hieroglyphics' studio albums, 3rd Eye Vision in 1998, and Full Circle in 2003.

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Single: T.A.M.I.

Souls of Mischief

2011-03-17T15:40:00.000-07:00

Oakland native Tajai began rhyming with future band mate A-Plus at age 8, while both were in elementary school. Tajai and Phesto met later in junior high school. ;A-Plus ;later introduced ;Tajai ;and Phesto to the remaining Souls of Mischief member, Opio, and the group informally formed in high school before making their major-label debut on Jive Records with their well-received album 93 'til Infinity, in 1993. 93 'til Infinity is the group's highest charting album to date (#17 Top R&;B/Hip Hop Albums; #85 Billboard 200), and in January, 1998, was named one of the Top 100 Rap albums by The Source magazine. The group stayed with Jive for one more album, 1995's No Man's Land, before being released from the label during that same year. In 1995, following the release of the group from its major-label contract with Jive, the group officially formed the alternative hip-hop collective Hieroglyphics, with emcees Del tha Funkee Homosapien, Casual, Pep Love, Jaybiz, and producer Domino. The group participated as full members in both Hieroglyphics' studio albums: 1998's 3rd Eye Vision, and 2003's Full Circle. The group has released two albums on the Hiero's self-owned independent label, Hieroglyphics Imperium Recordings, 1999's Focus, and 2000's Trilogy: Conflict, Climax, Resolution. On October 30, 2006, Hierocast (Hieroglyphics' official podcast), Del tha Funkee Homosapien reported that the Souls of Mischief were currently working on their next studio album with Prince Paul (De La Soul, Gravediggaz, Handsome Boy Modeling School). The group is currently touring along with Bukue One and Serendipity Project on the Ice Cold Tour. ";Tour Stories"; has been released as a promo for the Ice Cold Tour and their upcoming album. Song file information indicates that the title of the next album will be Montezuma's Revenge.

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Single: Proper Aim

RIP NATE DOGG

2011-03-16T15:10:00.001-07:00

Lets take a moment to reminisce.

The Menace

2011-03-14T18:00:00.000-07:00

There isn't much biographical info on The Menace other than he's from Compton.

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Single: Reality

X.O.

2011-03-13T18:00:00.000-07:00

Whether it is a mic check 1, 2, or Lights, Camera, Action – X.O. personifies the true meaning of Hip Hop in all his creative endeavors. A product of Altadena, California, the artist/writer is most noted for his contribution to the stage presence of multi-platinum artist, The Game. Through his relationship with Black Wall Street and the guidance and direction of a select few, taking a pen to a pad is natural. When given the opportunity to spread his wings as an independent artist, there was no time like the present to show the world the West has won (literally).

Formerly recording under the name, Scipio, X.O. describes the transformation as a preparation for what can only be described as legendary - the necessary rebirth of a dying breed. “I figure it like this in the rap game, with the name X.O.; I have a bigger burden to prove. People grow, in whatever they do, whatever profession, and in life. So just like the industry’s seen Jay-Z reinvent himself from Jay-Z to Sean Carter to HOVA, psychologically it shows everybody a different part of the man like, ‘ok maybe this is another part, another face of the individual that they didn't get to see.’ There is more than one side to every human being. You have to recreate yourself every so often in the music game, in any industry I believe, in order to evolve. That just shows growth. Progress.”

After 5 years in the game, 5 mix tapes down, a 6 year association with The Game, and after catching the ears of and getting nods from rap icons: Snoop Dogg, Jay-Z, and Pharrell (who referred to X.O. as “one of the greats”), X.O.’s affiliation with Black Wall Street has resulted in a long overdue powerful and strategic alliance. A triple threat, this West Coast lyricist, Billboard chart topping songwriter, and student of theater has been pounding the pavement. The California native, got an early introduction to rap via writing poetry, an eerily similar start to another legend, Tupac Shakur, whose lyrics were anchored in prose roots. Under the backdrop of the drug and gang infested, streets of Los Angeles County, many did not survive the element, but X.O. has overcome overwhelming odds that were often against him. As a student of the game, he grew up listening to and studying a wide range of artists including: DJ Quik, Hieroglyphics, Rakim, LL Cool J, Nas, and Ice Cube.

Among the music community, X.O. is a musician and has respectfully worked with artists such as Juelz Santana, Trina, Raphael Saadiq, Teedra Moses, Kelly Rowland, The Game, MC8, Jon B, and Snoop Dogg – to name a few.

Currently, along with progressing his talent as a songwriter and artist, X.O. is recording his debut rap album, yet to be titled, when asked about his character - “I bring a different energy to the game. It goes beyond music. I’m a songwriter; I’m an artist that writes hip hop, R&B, and alternative. I’ve also been acting for the past 8 years. I am the complete package. It goes beyond killing on a record. I'm that next, new genre of hip hop, especially on the West. I’m not selling albums; I’m selling a way of life.”

All this to say on a stage, in front of a camera, or in the studio – X.O. is among the new wave of artists that has done it all. It only gets better. CUT!

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Single: You'll Never Make It

Elijah

2011-03-12T18:00:00.000-08:00

It’s only a matter of time before the world is talking about Elijah. His lyrical skills and freestyle flow have caught the attention of many hip hop heavy hitters and landed him onstage with Snoop, Diddy, The Cheetah Girls, B5, T.I., Juelz Santana, Jadakiss. 50 Cent referred to Elijah as "the future". He even put him on his website and personally called Elijah to speak with him about a record deal. (See Thisis50.com)..

He has also guest starred on NBC’s longest running drama Law & Order and has appeared in national ads for gear such as Phat Farm and Rocawear. His song and video "Beautiful Day" appeared in the Luc Besson directed movie, "Arthur and the Invisibles", along with Snoop, Jewel and Madonna. He even co-hosted a radio show. All by the age of 11.

Fresh off Disney’s Incubator Tour, with his debut single "Girlfriend," (Universal/ Motown) Elijah rocks the mic with the style and swagger of a young Jay-z; the addicitive hook and playful rhymes keeps young and old entertained. He also has several national commercial ads airing on ABC, NBC, FOX, CBS, BET, Cartoon Network

Raised by a single father in Harlem, Elijah Harris, simply know as Elijah, started out like many other children. He would listen to the radio, memorize the rhymes of his favorite artists and perform them for his family. His grandmother (Evangelist Yolanda Harris) often encouraged him. When she passed in 2003 from breast cancer, Elijah took pen to paper and wrote his own raps expressing his feelings about her. "She inspired me", says the 7th grader. My grandmother introduced me to Jesus."

The song entitled "A Tribute to Grandma 04-09-03," caused his father, Lee Harris, to realize that his son had a gift. A chance meeting put Elijah in front of record mogul Damon Dash where he dazzled him with his freestyle flow. Dash put him in a Rocawear ad and jumpstarted his modeling career. Dame also put him in the studio and encouraged him to create a mixtape. Elijah continued to write rhymes and Lee moved forward to put together a mixtape for him.

I’m Only 9 (approximately 40,000 copies sold to date) generated the type of buzz in 2005 reserved for stars in the making. He has also dropped a new mixtape entitled "Fresh" in the summer of 2007. Elijah performs with a confidence and assurance rarely seen in his age group and defies comparison. His song "We Look Up to You" addresses all of his favorite rappers and is buzzing on many DJ’s Playlist including Game’s new mixtape.

Fun and positive are how Elijah describes his music. He hopes it will inspire other kids to stay in school and to always believe in God, "because he is your answer." While Christianity is a running theme throughout his music, it doesn’t overshadow it. "He’s a Christian child who lost his grandmother at a young age and decided to express his feelings through hip hop," explains his father. Elijah frequently performs for breast cancer benefits, church concerts, children hospitals, schools and group homes to promote positive awareness. He also opened up for the UniverSoul Circus with WBLS.

Radio personality Pezo Coconut was so impressed by Elijah that he made him the co-host of Hot 102.1 and 107.9 in Virginia Beach, VA. Elijah created a forum where kids could call in and fans, old and new school, began to tune in. He soon caught the ear of Universal/Motown head Sylvia Rhone and Tone from Trackmasters and was signed to a deal in 2005. Elijah is now a free agent.

Even though he now spends time on the road performing and working on his new album, he still finds time to be a kid. His favorite subjects in school include math, english and science. He also loves basketball and plays point guard and shooting guard.

This is only the first act for Elijah. When he says "In five years I want to be a movie star, superstar and the greatest of all time," - at the rate he’s going, it will soon happen.

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Single: Hydrolics Freestyle Remix

Clyde Carson

2011-03-11T18:00:00.000-08:00

Clyde Carson does not wait for opportunity; he creates it. The rapper-cum-entrepreneur is best known as the front man of The Team, a locally-successful rap group that lit up switchboards with their major radio hit in 2004 “It’s Gettin’ Hot.” Musical talent aside, he is also the mastermind of the nation’s fastest-growing energy drink, Hyphy Juice, and Partner of Moe Doe Records. Success at such a young age fared no small coincidence, as Carson set out to prove early on in his career that he was not content with being just an artist.

“My main goal was to make music with an Oakland element to it, but on a national level,” Carson explains about his objective in the music industry. Raised in the era of Mob Music in the Bay Area, he pioneered the resurgence of party music in a time when content was all about violence. With a combination of uncanny timing and relentless work ethic, Carson became one of the biggest purveyors of the Bay Area’s Hyphy Movement that brought his hometown back into the spotlight after nearly a decade of neglect from national attention.

After a brief stint in New York to soak up the mixtape hustle, Carson put together a “side project” in 2002 that would later cement his contribution to the local hip hop industry. That “side project” was the creation of a group with fellow members Mayne Mannish, Jungle, and Kaz Kyzah called The Team. Battling at local radio stations gave the group enough recognition to earn a chance at making it to the airwaves, and after scoring major spins with their previously-mentioned single “It’s Getting Hot”, Carson proved that the Hyphy Movement was not something so easily categorized as a passing fad.

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Single: Secret Lover

Juice

2011-03-10T18:00:00.000-08:00

Juice Rapper from Phoenix, Arizona. Signed to Black Wall Street after The Game was touring Arizona, and received Juice's demo. Juice has released a mixtape, Death Certificate, hosted by >DJ Skee, The mixtape was nominated for four "Mixtape Justo Awards". Juice recently released his second mixtape, "Position of Power". He is currently working on "American Me: Voice of the People", and his debut studio album 'The Anticipated'.

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Single: Illest New Rapper Alive

Nu Jerzey Devil

2011-03-09T18:00:00.000-08:00

Nu Jerzey Devil is on track to epitomize the meaning of “jack of all trades” when it comes to music, and he’s focused on being the master of all that he does. His recent single “Different Girls” featuring Lil Wayne has catapulted the established Black Wall Street producer/DJ to overnight recognition as a lyricist and songwriter, kicking of his bigger plan for 2009.

In addition to developing his own LiveliHood Entertainment label, Nu Jerzey Devil will be releasing his Art of the Devil mixtape project in February, followed by an EP of original work entitled Heaven or Hell in April, and his full-length debut album Devil’s Playground in August, all in association with SoBe Entertainment, Universal Music Group and Fontana Distribution.

Born Anthony Torres in the South Bronx, Nu Jerzey Devil lived on Cedar Avenue with his family. When he was four-years-old, his mother and six siblings moved to New Jersey. The youngest of the children, Torres emulated his older brothers every move and soon caught on to their influences in Hip Hop. By age seven, Nu Jerzey Devil began rapping, and when he was 18 he traded a friend a .45 caliber gun for DJ equipment. As the inspiration to make music overtook him, he procured a Dr. Rhythm beat machine and a Yamaha DJX keyboard to start his own production endeavors.

Within two years of his start-up as a producer, Jerzey was contacted by Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins of Darkchild Productions. Impressed by the budding artist, Jerkins took Jerzey with him to Miami for a few meetings. When they returned home, Nu Jerzey Devil immediately joined the Darkchild team, and scored the soundtrack for the 2003 Jessica Alba film Honey (Universal Pictures). The pair then moved to Los Angeles and worked on My Baby's Daddy (Miramax Films) starring Anthony Anderson, Eddie Griffin and Method Man.

During his time in L.A., Jerzey linked with Darkchild team member Phat Rat, and was introduced to Dr. Dre protégé The Game. They immediately hit the studio and recorded "The Black Wall Street Anthem" – most notably heard as The Black Wall Street's intro on their official website. The chemistry bubbled as the duo continued recording, as The Game was simultaneously creating The Black Wall Street label. Without hesitation, Nu Jerzey Devil was the first signee to the new company. He moved to Compton, California to Cedar Block, and history was in the making.

While Nu Jerzey Devil continues to produce and record with The Game and the rest of Black Wall Street, he is now taking the time to act on his aspirations for a solo career. “I always wanted to be an artist, but never really took it seriously,” he explains. “One day Game said, ‘You should start rapping since you already have a fan base’ and I was like, ‘You know what? Why not?’ And that’s when I went in and laid down some vocals.”

Nu Jerzey Devil’s first official rap venture is the single “Different Girls” featuring Lil Wayne, which has turned out to be an instant hit with fans. His new mixtape Art of the Devil will give the streets a solid taste of Jerzey’s lyrical and songwriting abilities. Features will include The Game and Lil Wayne; however this is going to be a true testament to Nu Jerzey Devil’s own talent. “I really didn’t want to crowd my mixtape with other artists, because I feel like it’s my mixtape, and I want people to hear and truly get a feel for me,” he explains.

The upcoming EP Heaven or Hell and full-length album Devil’s Playground will further the movement as he incorporates original production and well thought-out guest spots. Other producers already slated for these projects include Scott Storch, E.P. (Executive Producer for The Game’s LAX album) and Jerzey’s own LiveliHood Entertainment production team Surround Sound. The feature line-up thus far includes Reggae star Jah Cure, R&B sensation Raheem Devaughn, Lil Wayne and The Game.

As he develops his music, Nu Jerzey Devil will set aside outside projects for a while; however he is confident in his long term relationship with Black Wall Street being there as he grows. “Me and Game will always work together,” explains Jerzey. “He's been my homie since day one, and will always be my homie no matter what. We are actually planning ..ping a new mixtape together really soon, so be on the lookout for that!”

While he reps New Jersey to the fullest, the young world-traveler is taking a universal approach to his music. “I just want people to know that Nu Jerzey Devil is definitely a well-rounded artist. You never know what to expect from me. Today I might be on some hood sh*t, and tomorrow I can be on some pop record. I do music for the whole world, not just for one area or person. I don't limit myself at all.”

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Single: I Ain't Neva Scared

The Game

2011-03-08T18:00:00.000-08:00

**BE WARY, I AM NOT POSTING GAME CAUSE HE IS SLEPT ON, TONS OF PEOPLE KNOW HIM, IM JUST INTRODUCING BLACK WALL STREET RECORDS WITH HIM**

Jayceon Terrell Taylor (born November 29, 1979), better known by his stage name The Game, is an American rapper. He rose to fame in 2005 with the success of his debut album, The Documentary, and his two Grammy nominations. Since then, he is considered to be a driving force in bringing back the West Coast hip hop scene into the mainstream and competing with many of his East Coast counterparts.

Aside from releasing two albums that debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, The Game has gained notoriety for involvement in feuds with other rappers. His music falls under the gangsta rap subgenre, a style of hip hop popularized in Compton, California.

Early life

The Game was born Jayceon Terrell Taylor in Los Angeles, California to Lynette Baker and father George Taylor Jr. He grew up in Compton, California
in a primarily Crip gang neighborhood known as Santana Blocc, although he grew up to become a member of the Bloods. In an October 2006 interview with MTV News correspondent Sway Calloway, The Game described his family as "dysfunctional" and claimed that his father molested one of his sisters.After graduating from Compton High School in 1999,Taylor claimed to have attended Washington State University on a basketball scholarship before being suspended in his first semester because of drug allegations. However, the university's athletic department refutes these claims. It was then that he started fully embracing street life and turned towards selling drugs and gang banging.At the age of eighteen, he began to follow his older half brother, George Taylor III known as Big Fase 100, who was the leader of the Cedar Block Pirus.

Music career

Beginnings

Studying various influential rap albums, The Game developed a strategy to become a rapper himself and with help from Big Fase, they founded The Black Wall Street Records. The label originally featured such artists as Glasses Malone, Vita, and Nu Jerzey Devil, along with The Game himself. His stage name was coined by his grandmother. The Game first gained prominence when he attended a hip-hop summit hosted by Russell Simmons and Louis Farrakhan, releasing his first mixtape You Know What It Is Vol. 1 in 2002, followed by a record deal with the independent label, Get Low Recordz owned by JT the Bigga Figga. Originally Sean Combs of Bad Boy Records was going to sign him to his label, but The Game's mixtape found the attention of famed producer Dr. Dre, who signed him to Aftermath Entertainment in 2003. In October 2004, he released his first album Untold Story through Get Low Recordz, which sold over 82,000 copies within its first three months.The album featured artists like Sean T, Young Noble (of the Outlawz), and JT the Bigga Figga. The Game also appeared on various mixtapes hosted by DJ's such as DJ Kayslay, DJ Whoo Kid, and DJ Clue. The Game also released a second mixtape You Know What It Is Vol. 2 through his own record label and appeared on the video game NBA Live 2004 on a song produced by Fredwreck called "Can't Stop Me".

Rapper Joe Budden mocked The Game's appearance on the dating game show Change of Heart. The Game has consistently defended his appearance on the show. Later, at a party in New York, the rappers mutually announced their intention to stop making hostile records about each other.

Major label debut

The Game was originally signed as an artist on Aftermath Entertainment, but Interscope Records CEO Jimmy Iovine and Dr. Dre decided to have The Game also work with 50 Cent and G-Unit. The arrangement was to help build a growing buzz around The Game which would also fuel interest in G-Unit. Since then, he made numerous cameo appearances in music videos by 50 Cent, Lloyd Banks, Young Buck, and Fabolous, first appearing on the music video of "In da Club", dancing with a girl. His first appearance on a single was on Jim Jones' "Certified Gangstas", before his own single "Westside Story" was released in 2004.

Head :: Text
At the 2007 Hip Hop Jam festival in the Czech Republic

The original title of the album was Nigga Wit' An Attitude Volume 1 (as heard in the lyrics to "Dreams"), but an injunction filed at the request of Eazy-E's widow prevented him from using N.W.A.'s name in the album title. Dr. Dre and 50 Cent were executive producers on The Game's major label debut album, The Documentary, which spawned the hit singles "How We Do" and "Hate It or Love It" (the latter receiving two Grammy nominations). The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and was the tenth best selling album of 2005 in the United States. It also debuted at number seven in the United Kingdom and sold over five million copies worldwide.

Lil Eazy-E, a young rapper and son of rapper Eazy-E, entered a feud with The Game. The two used to be close associates and even recorded music together. Lil' Eazy-E has since directed numerous diss songs targeting the rapper and expressed his anger over what he felt was The Game misusing his father's name. The Game responded by claiming that Lil' Eazy-E was trying to establish himself off the success he had made since releasing The Documentary. The Game responded on "120 Bars" where he claimed that Lil' Eazy-E does not write his own lyrics. However, The Game states on the same track that he would rather not feud with Lil' Eazy-E due to the deep respect he feels for his father. Lil' Eazy-E later responded with "They Know Me". On October 30, 2006, The Game went on KDAY and said that he and Lil' Eazy-E have ended their feud.

Dr. Dre's nemesis Suge Knight had an ongoing feud with The Game stemming from when Yukmouth claimed that The Game had been slapped by Suge Knight. The Game responded on his website, saying that if Suge Knight had ever touched him, he would be "six feet under". After the 2005 BET Awards, associates of Death Row had their invitations to a party hosted by Ciara rescinded. Supposedly, a member of Death Row tried to steal The Game's chain. The Game stated on his Black Wall Street website that he dislikes Suge Knight because of "the lives he has endangered". In Miami for the 2005 MTV Video Music Awards, Suge Knight was shot and wounded at Kanye West's party by an unknown gunman. The Game vigorously denied involvement in the shooting, but the incident renewed efforts to pacify hip hop feuds and The Game has consequently been discouraged from attending certain events in hopes of averting retaliation. Later, The Game and various representatives of California's rap cliques formed a West Coast "peace treaty" to end many rivalries between West Coast rappers. Although Suge Knight did not attend, he and The Game declared their feud over.

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Single: My Life ft. Lil Wayne

Marco Polo & Torae

2011-03-07T19:56:00.000-08:00

When it comes to beats and rhymes, Canadian producer Marco Polo and Brooklyn MC Torae don’t play, just check the résumé. On his 2007 critically acclaimed album Port Authority, Polo recruited a who’s who of MC’s like Kool G Rap and Kardinal Offishall to ride over his hard-hitting, boom-bap instrumentals. Torae, on the other hand, has certified his rep as one of the game’s illest lyricists in a similar fashion with remarkable wordplay on his highly touted 2008 street album Daily Conversation. So, in the spirit of great hip-hop duos, the producer and the MC signed with Duck Down Records (home of Buckshot, 9th Wonder, Black Moon, B-Real of Cypress Hill, KRS-ONE, Sean Price, Heltah Skeltah, DJ Revolution, Smif N Wessun, Ruste Juxx, Boot Camp Clik and Kidz in the Hall) in 2009 to release their collaborative album Double Barrel.

“He’s bringing the hardest production that he can bring, I’m bringing the hardest rhymes I can bring; together its like a double barrel blast,” says Torae of the album’s persistent theme. The two first hooked up when Marco tapped the MC to guest on his Mick Boogie-helmed mixtape The New Port Authority in 2007. In turn, Marco went on to produce “Casualty” on Tor’s Daily Conversation. “I think we just had a connection in the studio,” says Polo, “We wanted to make an album that we wanted to hear with banging beats and aggressive rhymes.”

Sonically Double Barell pays homage to New York’s mid-‘90’s rap scene, when artists like Gangstarr and Wu-Tang Clan reigned supreme. The album’s first single “Party Crashers” is a definite standout, harkening back to that era with its chest thumping percussion and rock solid rhymes. So rather then try to fit in with hip-hop’s pop set, Marco and Torae chose the unconventional route. “I think the sound of the album is not the most popular or trendy, but we’re going to crash the party,” says Tor, “ We’re coming in with this sound and we’re coming in doing what we want to do.”

Songs like the dramatic “But Wait” and the free associative “Word Play” display Tor’s forward thinking conceptuality, while the rock-infused “Danger” stands as one of Marco’s finest productions to date. Overall the album is chock-full of the street-influenced rap that fans have come to expect from the two hip-hop upstarts.

More than superior rhymes and dynamic beats, Double Barrel is a testament to the ever-important creative relationship between rapper and beat maker. “You want to have a good sense of chemistry with a person and Marco and I have good chemistry,” says Torae. “You’re going to have a consistency in the sound,” says Marco of the benefits of the one MC, one producer dynamic.

Throughout the album pays homage to the genre of rap that influenced the duo and even features critically acclaimed heavyweights like M.O.P., Masta Ace and Sean Price to help balance out the track list. Still while honoring the past, Marco and Torae’s main goal is ultimately to further their art. “We’re not trying to take it back,” says Marco we just wanted to make an album that knocks.”

With the boom bap in tow, the pair aim to prove that behind all the flashy videos and high priced toys, hip-hop always boils down to two things: beats and rhymes. Double Barrel more than accomplishes the goal, and Torae sums up the collaboration perfectly when he spits, “He makes violent beats, I’m from the violent streets/That Double Barrel sound, that’s where violence meets.”

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Single: Double Barrel

Skyzoo

2011-03-07T07:54:00.000-08:00

Summertime is about to get even hotter on August 11th when Brooklyn-based rapper Skyzoo releases his debut album entitled "The Salvation" through Jamla/Duck Down Records. With the public already buzzing over his latest mixtape, "The Power of Words" hosted by DJ Drama and Statik Selektah and featuring guest appearances by Talib Kweli, Wale, Maino, Reks, EPMD, Big Pooh, and more, Skyzoo is planning to keep that buzz alive with his first album. He explains, "I don't think there has been a debut album this cohesive and cinematic in years. The lyrics give you the ability to visualize everything being said over the beats."

Boasting an impressive list of achievements, including being named the "Best Lyricist" in the 2008 Underground Music Awards and landing the number seven spot on Hot 97's poll of the "Top 10 Emcees Alive" (as the only unsigned artist on the list), Skyzoo's track record should be a sign that listeners should expect top quality rhymes on "The Salvation." The album will be assisted with production from 9th Wonder, DJ Premier, Nottz, and Illmind, providing a top-notch musical backdrop for Skyzoo's proven lyricism.

"The Salvation" will be released on Jamla Records, founded by Grammy-Award winning producer 9th Wonder, which is a sub-label of Duck Down Records. 9th Wonder's vision behind Jamla is "straight forward, no chaser, SOUL music ranging from Hip Hop to R&B. The bottom line...no additives or preservatives. We are Jamla"

According to Skyzoo, "doing the deal with JamLa and Duck Down made sense in more ways than one. As far as JamLa, 9th Wonder was the main person who let me kick in the door to get in this game and build a fan base via our "Cloud 9" EP, so it made perfect sense to bring it back full circle. Duck Down has always held the flag for dope music - raw hip hop in its purest sense, and I'm glad to be contributing to that."

9th Wonder feels confident with Skyzoo being the debut project on Jamla/Duck Down Records stating "Skyzoo is established, and a very talented Emcee. We decided for him to be first because of that pure talent, drive and work ethic. He casts words in his rhymes that deserve to be studied by scholars. We believe that Sky has what it takes to make the first steps for Jamla and he believes it as well, which is important for him, for us and for our music."

Skyzoo's debut album will join the list of projects he has already completed, including six independent mixtapes, an independent EP, and over 100 songs, which have earned him mentions in publications such as XXL, Scratch, Vibe, The Source, and Spin. He promises nothing but quality, reminding his audience that "whenever people get my mixtapes, they always tell me I'm giving away so much incredible music that's worth paying for. In response, I tell them 'this is just the stuff I'm giving out for free, so imagine what I make for my major debut. Imagine what I make you pay $15 for."

"The Salvation" will be available for purchase August 11th, including various singles such as "The Beautiful Decay", "Popularity", "Fly Away", and "Metal Hearts".

"The Power of Words" mixtape hosted by DJ Drama and Statik Selektah is available for free download CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD FOR FREE

The CD includes tracks such as "Back On The Map" featuring Maino, "Freshfest" featuring Wale, "No Pretending" produced by Khrysis, "Alphabet Soup" produced by J Dilla, and "When I Rhyme" featuring Talib Kweli and Reks, with production by Statik Selektah.

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Single: The Beautiful Decay

B-Real

2011-03-06T19:50:00.000-08:00

B-Real is the lead MC from the legendary west coast group Cypress Hill. Since the group's formation in 1988, the pioneering rap-rock quartet Cypress Hill -- founders B-Real (Louis Freese), DJ Muggs (Lawrence Muggerud) and Sen Dog (Senen Reyes), along with newest member Eric Bobo -- have come a long way from the streets of South Central L.A. Over the course of its 17-year history, Cypress Hill has sold more than 17 million albums worldwide, including more than 11 million records in the U.S. alone. The group has garnered 15 multi-platinum, platinum and gold certifications from the RIAA; headlined Lollapalooza, Woodstock and the group's own Smokin' Grooves tour; appeared on "Saturday Night Live," among other shows, all the while breaking down the musical and cultural barriers between hip-hop, alternative, metal, rock, reggae, ska and Latin music. To this day, many of Cypress Hill's hits remain on active rotation on the nation's foremost hip-hop, rock and alternative playlists while the sounds of Cypress Hill continue to rock the world's hottest underground parties.

B-Real Now Preps "SMOKE N MIRRORS" "Smoke N Mirrors" features SNOOP DOGG, DAMIAN MARLEY, BUCKSHOT, SEAN PRICE and SEN DOG, of Cypress Hill. Production includes tracks from DJ Quick, Fredwreck, Scoop Deville, and B-Real himself for Audio Hustlerz, Inc.

B-Real is the latest addition to Duck Down Records, who just recently announced a group project with KRS-ONE & Buckshot, that will be in stores in 2009, along with projects from DJ Revolution, "King Of The Decks" in stores now, and a re-united Heltah Skeltah, comprised of Rock and Sean Price, aka Ruck, who, after ten years, have released their third album, "D.I.R.T." (Da Incredible Rap Team)

Dru Ha, co-owner of Duck Down Records believes; "Adding another living legend in B-Real to our roster is really giving Duck Down a "dream team" line up for independent Hip Hop." Buckshot and I have been strategic with our label partnerships mixing the right blend of emerging artists with proven veterans. When you add the upcoming Random Axe Project (Sean Price, Guilty Simpson and Black Milk collaboration set for a 2009 release) we're excited about our ability to continue contributing quality Hip Hop albums to the game.

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Single: Fire

Blue Scholars

2011-03-06T08:49:00.000-08:00

Walking away from numerous record label offers, Blue Scholars will release several upcoming projects through a unique partnership formed with Duck Down Records, and Seattle’s Caffe Vita Coffee Co.

On August 25, 2009 Blue Scholars will release “OOF!” their newest collaborative multi-media project and the first release to be distributed through their new venture. On September 1st, they will re-issue their 2007 album “Bayani”, which has already sold over 20,000 units. “Bayani Redux” will include one brand new track and two songs that were previously available only via digital retail outlets. There will also be a brand new full-length Blue Scholars album and other projects coming soon. The sales and distribution model developed by the group for their upcoming releases will allow them to maintain complete ownership of their music and total control over how it is marketed, sold, and even given away.

Instead of signing a standard artist/record label deal, Blue Scholars hired the label Duck Down to run point on marketing for all of their upcoming releases. As a major player in the current and ever-changing record label industry, Duck Down Records saw this deal as an opportunity to get creative and experiment with strategies for record labels to continue evolving as viable businesses. Dru Ha, CEO of Duck Down Records states, “I believe Blue Scholars is positioned to be one of the next important groups, not just in hip hop, but in music worldwide, and I want Duck Down to be a part of that. They bring their progressive ideas not just to their music and lyrics, but also in the way they think about and do their business.”

Duck Down’s current distribution partner, E1 Entertainment, the largest independent distributor in the United States, will handle distribution of Blue Scholars’ physical product. Digital sales and distribution will go through Tunecore. Direct-to-fan marketing and sales will be developed by the members of Blue Scholars themselves, using Topspin web marketing tools. Says Geo, of Blue Scholars, “After weighing all the options, remaining independent is without question, the best look. Duck Down shares that vision and their track record speaks for itself. With them, we get that national and international push while still owning and controlling our music. "

To finance all the upcoming projects, Blue Scholars have formed a strategic brand relationship with Seattle independent coffee company, Caffe Vita. The coffee company will also play a role in the sales and distribution plan by selling upcoming albums in all of their retail outlets and marketing the releases via their online presence. Blue Scholars DJ/ Producer Sabzi says in regard to their partnership with Caffe Vita - “their innovative marketing, their justice and equity in business practices, and their premiere quality of product and presentation, make Caffe Vita an ideal brand to partner with. I intend to do with our music what Vita does with their coffee.”

"Coffee is both International and local, it effects the lives of millions, and it has tremendous ability to generate culture. We believe strongly in the work of the Blue Scholars and their power to look beyond the basic commodity that music has become. We are honored that Sabzi and Geo see that Vita is striving for the same goals." Mike McConnell, founder Caffe Vita

Blue Scholars have sold over 60,000 albums and played over 400 live shows. They have developed a dedicated following in the Northwest (selling over 4,000 tickets for each of their last few Seattle performances) and have shared the stage with an impressive list of nationally acclaimed artists such as Kanye West, Q-Tip, De La Soul, Immortal Technique, Hieroglyphics, GZA of Wu-Tang Clan, Matisyahu, Zion-I, Flobots and the Coup.

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Single: Joe Metro