TCM (The Chronicles Magazine) Issue #19

jan/feb 2012

NIPSEY hussLe

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the marathon life

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Nipsey hussle Ironsolomon solomon Iron millimillz millz milli Mysonne J Staffz s.a.s. s.a.s. pg pg

ISSUE # 19 contributors GRAPHICS KENNETH MALE JUSTIN LEWIS INTERVIEWS KENNETH MALE JUSTIN LEWIS All WRITING KENNETH MALE JUSTIN LEWIS NICOLE CAMERON IMAGES JORGE PENICHE CNN CP24 AMAZON GOOGLE DAT PIFF SPECIAL THANKS TO CITY ON MY BACK HIP HOP DX DAT PIFF NAH RIGHT

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What is Real Hip-Hop?

Everybody knows it when they hear it or see it. But can defined? Can we categorically say that Nas spitting One L Real Hip Hop music, but Nastradomous is not? What are the acteristics of a Real Hip Hop song? Is it mainly a matter o ject matter. Does a real hip hop song have to relate to a real sue that is serious in nature or politcally charged? Or is a Hi song's authenticity lie in the skill displayed in its delivery? M its both. Maybe its neither. I've thought about this heavily a not sure there is an answer. But I'm sure that the criteria tha ple use to claim Real hip hop versus fake hip hop isn't cons

Its constantly argued in hip hop circles that songs that a gineered in the bubble gum factory aren't Real Hip Hop. The usually songs that are have no substance, meaning they are usually contain multiple references to partying and even more s less brand plugs. However, if we look back at hip hop in it’s in many of the songs were ONLY about partying. In fact an em main duty was to hype the crowd and make the event live. Think per's Delight. What are these guys really saying? Nothing real if you were to claim that wasn't Real Hip Hop you would be tioned if you're a real hip hop fan. In that case, subject matte be a determining factor whether a song is true hip hop of not. about skills on the mic? Does that determine a true hip hop

n it be Love is e charof sublife isip Hop Maybe nd I'm at peosistant.

As hip hop fans we're so quick to dismiss lyrically deficient emcees as not real hip hop. But again, if we look back in history some of the elder Gods of hip hop don't have profound rhyme skills. Look at Public Enemy. Chuck D isn't a lyrical genius, and his flow is elementary. Let's not even talk about Flavor Flav. PE strength lies in the previously discussed element. Substance. Again, I dare someone to rule out PE simply because their rhyming skills aren't comparable to BDP or Juice Crew.

That knocks that argument off. So how do you define real hip hop? I will argue its not matter of Real or Fake. But good or bad.

are enese are e lyrics shamenfancy, mcees k Raplly. Yet queser can't . What song?

Its simple. Usually, when somebody judges something as Real Hip Hop they are expressing their opinion of what they believe is good Hip Hop. Most of the time this is justified by the two criteria that I previously refuted being the judges of real hip hop. Substance and Skill. Sometimes, actually most of the time, what people judge as good hip hop is a combination of both factors. But judging whether a rap song is good or bad has nothing to do with its essence of being real or fake. The elements of a hip hop song are rhyming, rhythmically over a beat. Usually to the 4/4 time signature. If you're singing, using melodies, harmonies, half notes, falsetto etc, to the same beat that is a different genre. RnB, Country, whatever, just not rap. That's the

only way to distinguish hip hop from some other music genre.

If the artist is using the elements mentioned in the proper form then it is hip hop. What we really care about is if it is good or not.

Using the word Real implies whether the thing in question can be counterfeit. The question of real or true hip hop is as valid as what is a real car or true poetry. If it has the elements its real. When we speak about Real Hip Hop, the reasons we give to justify our position are based on quality. And I've proven that those reasons don't equate to a songs authenticity but our preference and if its a quality production. Furthermore, even if we were to entertain the question of real hip hop, could we agree on a single criteria that defines its realness? Probably not. In the end we hate music that uses the hip hop art form that's not up to our standards. Unfortunately, we can't stop wack emcees from getting in the booth as we can't ban bad directors from making movies. But we wouldn't say they don't make real movies just shitty ones. So why do it in the case with hip hop?

You may be thinking, well you make a good point but its just the way we use the word real. But consider this: an emcee, a good one at least, takes his time to use the correct word to make his punchline hit you hard. In the same way why can't we as fans do the same when we're expressing our passion for the culture?

THE GUTS news

World news - the famine in mogadishu - 4 canadian news - tribute to jack layton - 5

hip-hop

the state- state of the game as of january 2012 - 6 editorial - is odd future healthy for the heart? - 7 starting 5 - what if phiily’s best 5 emcees joined forces? - 8 battle royal - a look at the canibus vs ll battle - 9 next in line - tona & danny brown features - 10 lp predictions - nas, juelz, sean price and saukrates - 11

interviews reviews pg - 12 milli millz - 14 iron solomon - 15 s.a.s. - 17 j staffz -19 nipsey hussle -21

videos - headlines, chewbacca + - 24 SINGLES - PAY DAY2, GRIND + - 25 FREESTYLES - SWEET, RACK CITY + -26 MIXTAPES/EP’S - BLK & BWN, THE BIG 10 + - 27 ALBUMS - CAMP, AMBITION, TAKE CARE + - 28

news

hip-ho

op

interviews

reviews

World News MOGADISHU

who is al-shabaab?

Can you imagine trekking for 30 days across some of the hottest and driest terrains in the Somali desert? Carrying your sick, malnutrition offsprings with the understanding that either you or them might not survive the journey? This was the harsh reality for a large number of Somalis that fled Mogadishu en route to the Kenyan border.

Keep in mind Somalia hasn’t had a function-

ing government in 20 years. So when the terror group Al-Shabaab lifted their ban and unexpectedly left Mogadishu, residents fled towards the Kenyan boarder sick, suffering from malnutrition and the worst drought east Africa has seen in the past 60 years.

With that being said, why did we stop caring as soon as the media stopped reporting it? People are still suffering and dying.

Already one of the top ten most dangerous cities in the world, this region was controlled by AlShabaab until UN troops attacked the Islamic group.

Al-Shabaab consisted of roughly 2,500 Somali fighters with several foreign members. It’s believed they lost control of the Bakara market (Proprietors sold and still sell daily essentials including staples such as maize, sorghum, beans, peanuts, sesame, wheat and rice, petrol and medicine). But they also expanded largely during the civil war and have become notoriously known as a market of small arms and other weapons, including rocket propelled grenades, mortars (80mm and 120mm), 23mm and 30mm antiaircraft guns, and ammunition of all types.

They were also a key source of “tax” revenue that left the famine stricken city as a “change of tactics” according to spokesman Sheikh Ali Mohamed Rage.

Don’t get it twisted, they still control eight regions in Mogadishu with a substantial amount of revenue.

During their reign of destruction Al-Shabaab denied aid from the western world, kidnapped and killed aid workers and refused to let them vaccinate children in fear that vaccinations were actually plots to kill the children. That’s some heavy shit right there.

CLICK ON THIS BAR IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO MAKE A DONATION TO THE FAMINE STILL GOING ON IN EAST AFRICA. THIS LINK WILL TAKE

camps

What’s most devastating is the limited resources that these refugee camps have access to. 100,000 people alone have traveled to the city. They have come to IDU

-- Maternally Displaced People -- camps in search of food, aid and shelter. Mind you, there were already 500,000 people that have entered into neighboring Kenya. Over a 19 square mile sprawl, these camps now hold over 400,000 refugees. More than four times its

THE future capacity. Some wait weeks and even months just to be registered for camp service. They’re then forced to live on the outskirts in squatter huts built from sticks and

ragged cloth until their number is called. Sadly, death often calls first. These facilities have no running water or electricity. It’s impossible to give adequate aid to the hundreds of thousands that are sick. And the numbers are getting worse as time continues to tick into 2012.

The future doesn’t look promising. Of the $2.5 billion dollars that is needed to cope with the crisis only $1.4 billion has been received. In the last 8 months over 45,000 children (one every 5 minutes) have died of malnutrition and that number will only increase in 2012. It’s also estimated that over 1 million people will lose their lives due to lack of resources.

The disheartening part is that many of these people don’t even have the funds to bury their dead. Their corpses get tossed in ditches. That’s no way to die. Next time you throw those leftovers away, take a 20 minute hot shower, leave your lights on when while gone the whole day or dare complain about the wait time at your local hospital just remember, there are millions of Somalis that would LITERALLY kill to be in your shoes.

TAKE YOU TO A LIST OF DIFFERENT CHARITIES YOU CAN CHOOSE FROM. REMEMBER SOMEONE ALWAYS HAS IT MUCH WORSE THAT YOU.

4

Canadian News JACK LAYTON

“One man can only achieve what one is willing to accomplish” Jack Layton 1945-2011. NDP Canadian politics was dealt a serious blow back in August 2011 with the passing of NDP leader Jack Layton whom succumbed after a valiant fight with Cancer. In 2011 the Toronto bred politician stunned the Canadian political world when he led the NDP to its first placement as official opposition in the Canadian Government besting the Progressive Conservative party.

Almost as significant, Layton led the party to its first victory in Quebec. A province historically held by the separatist Bloc Quebecois. This historic feat was instrumental to the result of the Federal election. However, Jack, 61, a previous cancer survivor had to step down as party leader shortly after the election due to health problems. After his passing on August 19 a letter was released to the media addressed to Canadians which reinforced his genuine character and his passion for the well-being of all Canadians. Questions are now swirling about the party’s future without the charismatic leader and who will take the reins to lead the party in what is considered the most pivotal point in the NDP history. Jack Layton, an arbiter for the people will be missed. R.I.P.

TORONTO (AS OF DEC, 17TH 2011) HAS SEEN A STEADY DECREASE IN HOMICIDES FROM THE YEAR OF THE GUN (2005) TO DATE. 44 IN

IN 2011 COMPARED TO 60 IN 2010 COMPARED TO 61 IN 2009. 2005 SAW 52 GUN MURDERS (80 TOTAL). THE RECORD IS 89 IN 1991.

5

Hip Hop

THE STAFF AT TCM COMPILED THIS LIST. THIS IS OUR OPINION OF WHO IS MOST SKILLED, RELEVANT AND ANTICIPATED CURRENTLY IN THE GAME. ON THIS LIST ARE EITHER EMCEES OF A HIGHER ECHELON AND POSSESS LEGENDARY STATUS (EXAMPLE NAS, JAY-Z, RAEKWON) AND THEREFORE, DON’T

THE STATE - as of 09/21/2011 - 12/21/2011

Dead BEST EMCEE royce da 5”9

Runner Up: Jadakiss - Prev: Jadakiss

There’s nothing better than watching an emcee get better over the years. The first time I heard Nickel was on Boom. He came extremely hard on that track. But after listening to Bad Meets Evil and Success is Certain, I’m convinced that Royce is not only at the top of his game but he’s spitting better than your favorite emcee. Royce is as seasoned as an emcee could wish to be. Many times on BME he outshines Em. And on SIS he shows a lot of lyrical versatility.

He has a lot of material out and it’s all quality. His bars sail over listeners heads. Thank god he doesn’t need to compromise his talent. Thanks to Shady Records.

Worst Emcee: V-Nasty - Previously N/A This is my thing. I don’t care if an emcee isn’t lyrically mindblowing. DMX and Pac weren’t. But their music was emotional and necessary in that era. V-Nasty on the other hand is technically the worst thing to ever hit the market. Flow is ass, bars are ass and her image is ass. Maybe she needs to be a proctologist.

BEST female EMCEE jean grae

Runner Up: rapsody - Prev: lady luck

alive I’ve always been a fan of Jean.

But I’ve always wanted more content that she gave me. But after hearing Cookies or Comas, I don’t really see any females out there that have quality material like Grae. Jean really isn’t much of a punch line rapper. Don’t get me wrong she has punches for days but she raps about deeper issues. She’s a deeper artist.

Then she has a crazy, edgy persona that makes her such a balanced emcee. Another thing about Jean Grae that allows her fans to connect with her is the fact that she’s not gimmicky.

She’s real. Sure I could say Nicki is #1 but she’s a pop artist. I need Cake Or Death bad!

Hottest Emcee: Drake - Previously: Kanye West Drizzy picked up where he left off with TML. It’s a shame because he’s eclisping J Cole’s shine. Realistically, he’s at the point where he can release anything and people are going to eat it up. Even though his music isn’t fucking with top echelon emcees, people are checking for his stuff like crack in the 80’s. But his stuff isn’t cocaine.

BEST producer no i.d.

Runner Up: Kanye West - Prev: Kanye West

Common was a luck idea that No I.D. pr entire LP just goes to how much talent thi Even though he’s be for some time, a lot are now starting to t Out of Cole World, PL3DGE, I enjoyed he produced the mos ally I don’t like Big can listen to a lot o based on this man Ghetto Dreams made love with Common a over again. I hope ily involved with the project because righ on top of his game. have won that BE

Hottest Producer: Lex Luger - Previously: Kanye West

Even though his demand has died down a little, you can’t work he has done in the past months. B.M.F., Hustle Hard In The Paint alone have catapulted this kid into stardom want that name in their credits. He’s young and fresh for After working on WTT, this kid is going to be around fo

THIS LIST ONLY REFLECTS EMCEE/PRODUCERS AND DJ’S WHO ARE CURRENTLY ACTIVE WITHIN THE PAST 4-6 MONTH TIME PERIOD INDICATED. CERTAIN EMCEES WHO MAY NOT BE BELONG HERE. KEEP IN MIND THIS IS OUR OPINION ACCORDING TO WHAT WE LISTEN TO AND WHAT WE ARE EXPOSED TO. AGREE OR AGREE TO DISAGREE BUT DON’T HATE.

ky guy. The roduced his o show you is guy has. een around t of people take notice. , WTT and d the joints st. PersonSean but I of his music right here. e me fall in and Nas all he’s heave Nas.Com ht now he’s He should ET award.

t ignore the d and Hard m. People r the game. or a while.

Hottest New Comer: Mac Miller

People really seem to love this kid. He’s not that great lyrically but he’s everywhere working with every rapper.

He’s doing things independently never done before.

fresh best label def jam

Runner Up: Duckdown - Prev: Roc Nation

The odd thing about Def Jam is they don’t push their best artists. But that doesn’t mean those artists aren’t inked to the label. Here is a light rundown of their roster. Ace Hood, Big Boi, Big K.R.I.T., Fabolous, Jadakiss, Kanye West, Ludacris, Nas, The Roots and Jay-Z to name a few. You can compare that team to any other and lose all bets. It’s like the Globetrotters VS the Generals. They’re stacked. Unfortunately if your name isn’t Rihanna, Rick Ross or Kanye West, nobody might know that you’re project is even out. Their bench players could be starters on any other team.

This is the deepest talent pool.

Most Underated Emcee: Elzhi - Previously: Skyzoo

I was initially apprehensive about listening to Elmatic. I don’t like when classics get tampered with. But after rinsing it for a little over a month now, I’m seeing that there is a particular hunger within this guy that I’m not sure the masses are paying attention to. In my opinion Elzhi can out rap a lot of veterans in the game.

most original emcee tech n9ne Runner Up: B.O.B. - Prev: Yelawolf

Hottest Group: OFWGKTA - Previously N/A

I’m not really a fan of Tech N9ne.

The first time I heard him was on the radio. I was like “who the hell is this guy?” But it was a good “who the hell.” From his voice to his flow you would be hard pressed to find ANYBODY in the game that sounds like Tech sonically. It’s so dope how his flow is out of control and balanced at the same time. As far as his appearance, he is clearly in his own lane. And after taking in his album, I’ve developed a respect for him lyrically. His punch lines are witty but more than anything original. This dude here is anything but cliché. He’s not afraid to be himself and created his own avenue by doing so.

These guys are like the Wu of this era. I mean that in the sense of them having so many different members that different people can identify with. NOT IN THE LYRICAL SENSE! It only makes sense that a group that worships the devil would have a cult following. And a lot of vets want to work with these kids to keep warm.

Most Anticipated: Jay Electronica

Now that Cole World is out we can start looking for Jay-E’s LP. He’s the best talent over at Roc Nation by FAR. Now all we need him to do is prove it.

Best Battle MC: Hollow Da Don

He’s witty but always keeps his composure when he’s in the ring. He’s nearly ended a few careers. And aside from Tech 9 he’s the funniest battle emcee out.

Realest Emcee: Sean Price

When you listen to his interviews you can’t help but respect his realness. And the same goes for his bars.

He’s probably your favorite rapper’s favorite rapper.

6

editorial

odd indeed

You can’t knock talent no matter how hard you try to.

No matter how much you want to hate LeBron James and his adolescent media antics, you can’t deny the fact that he is a guaranteed 25-7-7 a night guy. On the other side of the coin, just because you respect how he performs doesn’t mean that you’re obligated to go to Heat games, purchase LBJ23 memorabilia or follow his off court ventures. That’s your prerogative at the end of the day. His actions have no affect on your life. Can music be looked at in the same light? Music is heavily a reflection of the consumer. So can being an OFWGKTA fan be affecting you in ways you may not even realize?

When it comes to music in this day and age, image is everything. As an artist, it supersedes the actual content being released. That’s why you have all these emcees hitting the gym or getting some form of surgery to slim down. Among other things, sex sells. Not to mention that artists these days use their videos as mini commercials for all of these high end products we foolishly indulge in. It’s clear that record labels are in the business of making money and not developing artists.

They will do ANYTHING to generate money. Even if it means feeding you something that’s not good for your mental diet.

I don’t have much an issue with Frank Ocean. I want to make that clear. From what I see the dude has talent. Although his chorus on No Church For The Wild has a few references regarding religion that are interesting to say the least, he’s straight. But I wonder what book he reads Sunday morning. Maybe Frank is just an intriguingly dark person. Nothing wrong with that. In my opinion his only downfall is being affiliated with the lyrical peers that surround him. But he gets a pass, for now. Good, I’m glad to get that out of the way.

knows that the majority of fans these days are fickle a spade. Why would Tyler feed the public something tha rilegious and possibly harmful to the minds of our yo

Now I’m obviously not a OFWGKTA fan but them without taking in their material? So when I star little OFWGKTA binge for the ears. No word of a lie that two-week period but that’s another conversation. myself, why are these guys such sought after emcee don’t get a rap pass just because you can flow to the beat and he’s four. Good music must have substanc considered “substance” is a matter of opinion but I w It’s more so the disturbing imagery in their videos tha

If you were to walk into a record store and come across Tyler’s Goblin LP without knowing anything about him what would your first impression be? My guess is somewhere in the ballpark of satanic. That’s only fair, right? Dude has Limo tint pupils and an upside-down cross on his forehead. For those outside of the loop the upside-down cross is often associated with satanic and anti-religious attitudes, as it is considered to represent the opposite of Christianity by inverting its primary symbol, the Latin Cross. I’m a logical person and I’m conditioned to put two and two together off impulse. That looks to be a Luciferian antic to me.

If you asked Tyler about this imagery he’ll just tell you that it’s him being “creative” and it’s not as deep as many may think. That’s what he told Rosenberg and Cipha Sounds one morning. I refuse to believe that shit. Just because he’s young doesn’t mean he’s oblivious to his actions and the affect they may have on his followers. Even if he doesn’t necessarily practice satanic rituals, (which remains a mystery) that artwork is an example of how he will be perceived. And perception is reality isn’t it? That’s something people need to come to terms with. OFWGKTA has a strong cult following and the “machine”

This Tupac sex tape has me cringing. Not all money is good money. Don’t be surprised if something crazy happen

and mindless. Let’s call a spade a at he knows is blasphemous, sacouth? Please ask yourself that. t in all fairness how could I judge rted writing this piece I went on a e, I had some odd dreams during . But as I indulged I started to ask es? I’m sorry but it’s 2012 so you e beat. My nephew can flow to a ce! Whether or not their lyrics are wanna I argue something bigger. at will penetrate minds negatively.

7

Mellowhype is a group within the group consisting of producer Left Brain and Hodgy Beats. Their video 64 starts off by Left Brain ripping a page out of the Bible, twirling some Kush in it and smoking it.

Then you see Hodgy in a casket draped in snakes along with some other satanic imagery pulled from some of your favorite horror flicks. As far as actual bars, Hodgy goes in and says “I’m rehearsing for my funeral triple six roman numerals/ Mellowhype musical, talk to my wolves like Doolittle.” You can make what you want out of that. I understand metaphors, entendres and wordplay. I’m not slow. When he says he’s rehearsing for his funeral I kinda believe him in a creepy way.

Tyler on the other hand can be considered better than your average rapper (in 2012 that doesn’t say much) technically. He actually has a decent emceeing voice, which makes for his records to sound sonically sharp. But yet again it’s the content and imagery that raises a red flag for me. I just recently saw this weirdo pull out his dick during a live stream with a song in the background saying “suck my dick” over and over.

I wish I could find the link. That’s odd behavior to me. Am I a square for feeling that way? Am I wrong for judging an artist on what material he puts out and how he carries himself outside of the booth?

We’ve all seen the Yonkers video (24,645,183 views and counting). The lyrics aren’t so much my issue. For the most part he really isn’t talking about anything of merit. The video isn’t even my greatest concern even though he does commit suicide by hanging himself at the end. What really concerned me was the top YouTube comment “lol if I ever gotta waste somebody in a drive-by. This is gonna be the song bangin in my car.” 18 people approved this. Oh wait, that’s not damaging enough for you? In another song titled French, Tyler goes on to say “I’m opening a church to sell coke and Led Zeppelin / And fuck Mary in her ass…YO!” First of all, that shit doesn’t even rhyme. Secondly, why would you want to sodomize Virgin Mary hypothetically, metaphorically or realistically? Is that really being creative? Sure, if you live in Transylvania and sleep upside-down.

Don’t get me wrong. Nas, Big L and Big Pun are some of my favorite emcees. And I can quote all three of them saying some crazy shit like “when I was twelve I went to hell for snuffing Jesus” or “Roll the ganja up in Bible paper see how high the ly can take us…” But their body of work and

actions outside the booth trump the blasphemy they once spewed. I can’t say the same for OFWGKTA. They over saturate the public with the devil’s theme music.

Now is Odd Future responsible for raising a generation? NO! But are they in fact raising a generation as we speak? YES! Fans these days consume product without knowing whether or not the ingredients are good for them long term. We do it all the time when we eat junk food. Some don’t know that triple bacon burger is a heart stopper and eat it for that quick fix and pleasure for their taste buds. Others will throw that burger back knowing exactly what those unhealthy ingredients are and how they will affect their health in the coming years. Regardless, they will both be affected the same. I’d bet cash those triple bacon burger munchers are the same type people that consume this “alternative hip hop” flooding our airwaves and idiot boxes. People that consume this questionable “music” are likely fragile minded people. For goodness sakes I saw one OFWGKTA fan light his hair on fire. What’s your mental malfunction when you decide to light your dome ablaze? I can’t fathom any circumstance that would garner such antics. And behavior like that is ramped among their fans.

I’m not saying OFWGKTA is bad for hip hop culture. Nor am I saying they’re doing the culture any good. Something is only gonna be hot if people decided to consume it at high volume. If fans wanted every emcee to sound like MC Hammer again than you can believe Hammer pants would be flying off the racks and Chinese typewriter dance classes would be booked nationwide.

I just want consumers to wake up a little. Don’t be so blind. Know that the dude jumping around stage with 666 printed on his back might not be the guy you should look up to. I highly doubt he has your best interests at heart.

Pay attention to what these “rappers” are talking about and co-signing and then make an educated decision as to whether or not you’re going to purchase their product. If the devil came busting out of the ground and made a hot single, would you cop it? Or better yet would the idea even interest you?

Know the meaning behind message. This “well the beat is hot” mentality needs to end. Your subconscious mind can be responsible for more decision making than you give it credit for. What you listen to is a reflection of who you are whether you want to admit it or not. So be careful what you consume. You wouldn’t eat a piece of candy that would send you straight to hell but tasted like Jolly Ranchers would you? The same should apply for music. OFWGKTA checks for Lucifer and makes it clear. So in closing, do you check for Satan too?

ns to you for participating in this shit. Why we do this type of shit to each other? R.I.P. means nothing these days.

Starting 5

killadelphia

With no disrespect to New York -- The Mecca of Hip-Hop -- I’ve always felt that Philly has the deepest talent pool in the game. Let me explain myself before you get all worked up. New York is a state of 60 Million+. That’s a lot of room for error. But back to main point. You would be hard pressed to name one rapper that came out of Philly (a population of 1,526,006) that’s trash. Remember when Eve was the first lady on Double R? When Beans starting his journey with the Roc? When Cassidy came out of nowhere and The Roots were winning awards all over the place? Thanks! Philly had the game on lock sometime around the mid - late 90’s and early 2000. So we assembled this starting five to show that if this team was under the same umbrella with mainstream production, marketing and promotion, they could really become a dream team in rap. Yo, don’t let me own a label! I’ll be bringing rappers out of the woodwork making hits.

pg + Captain

sg

sf

pf

c + Assistant c

The most seasoned emcee to come out Illadelph would be a good fit at the one spot. He could make these artists much better than the already are with his distribution of team knowledge, wordplay and politricks.

What did Timbaland and Missy do wrong with Ms Jade? She’s nasty! Bar for bar a lot of females can’t see her. The same holds now. She could be that quiet sniper that comes in each game and grabs a silent 18 ppg.

He’s the hottest emcee on this team and the hungriest. He has the most to prove. From album to album expect “Iguodala” type energy from Meek.

He has a long career ahead of him and a “lead by example” work ethic.

Cass is arguably the best technical lyricist of his era. Still young and in his prime, he can’t be fucked with. His material speaks for itself. Cass on this team represents that missing piece championship clubs would need.

I think his Broad St Bully attitude is something any record label would want.

Beans is the epitome of hard work and struggle.

He’s rapped alongside the greats and held his own. And he’s boxed with elite vets in the game.

black thought

ms jade

meek mill

Cassidy

PG ik

beanie sigel

reserves: dutch & spade, Peedi crack, gillie da kid, reed dollaz, freeway, young chris, nina ross, production: ?ueslove + swizz beatz

sf

ik ik

8

Home: Killadelphia BLAZERS AWay: INDIE KILLERS

Play Book Play: “Thought Distribution”

One thing Black Thought has that none of his teammates have is an older, more mature audience. If right off squeeze he released a Black Thought Presents LP that would set all of his teammates up in very good scoring positions. No guard can defend that!

Play: “1-2 Meek Move”

Every time this team tips off Meek Mill is going to be targeted. Labels will send out multiple defenders to stop him but he can easily split the D with his MMG fan base. But he always has the option to kick it to Cass who is open on the wing and always money.

sg ik

Play: “Jade Stick & Low”

Opposing teams will be running their players ramped trying to sell a single where they can. With gaps in the D, sending in Jade could spell the end for any emcee. A skilled spitter who’s currently underrated on a dream team has comeback album written all over it.

Play: “Crash With Cass”

With all the confusion created between Meek and Jade’s albums. The Industry Killers will forget all about Cassidy. He needs a straight Swizz Beatz project and if he gets it, LIGHTS OUT! He can ball with the best of them. And he has a clear look at the basket.

Play: “Sieglation (Sigo)”

C ik

pf

Let Mac bring it home! When on top of his game, very few can see him lyrically and conceptually. He’d be picking up points off of everyone’s LP’s by features.

But when its time for him to go in, no features! A mix of ?ueslove and Swizz production = a classic LP.

Stat Sheet Sales

With the proper marketing and promotion, all of these artists would at the least go gold. But with his new found fame, Meek Mill would have the potential to go platinum provided he released a plethora of singles off his LP. If they consistently released records they would be topping the charts all year long without missing a beat.

Accolades

I don’t necessarily see any Grammys in the picture. They wouldn’t be putting out that bubble gum content that usually wins rappers Grammys. But I’m not sure any of these artists care for awards like that. So a few BET, MTV and AMA’s would definitely be within reach for this star studded cast.

Next: NYC

How is it that the Mecca of where it all started is struggling the way that it is right now? With all that talent it doesn’t makes sense. It’s just like the Knicks.

NYC lacks unity. But in a perfect situation, if the right emcees were to come together it would spell the end for a lot of acts in the game. We’re gonna make it happen next issue. You don’t wanna miss this one.

BATTLE ROYAL

2nd round k.o. beat - 8/10

Clef and Jerry Duplessis killed th They really gave it a feel of a myth cal joust taking place. That baselin hits you hard! Perfect beat for B

ll VS bis

This is arguably the most confusing rap battle I’ve ever witnessed. It’s hard to say who won. It made me question what constitutes a win in the ring of raps.

If you take the two records that were made and compare them bar for bar I think the victor is clear-cut. Not to mention the beat for Second Rnd KO was epically scorching. But if that’s the case then what happened?

Because it doesn’t seem like Bis won this bout.

We chose to take a glance at this battle to show people that in some cases it doesn’t matter how much bars you have. The people will determine who’s triumphant in an emcee battle. And it seems that in this case the masses perceived LL to be the winner. Was it LL’s experience in the ring? Or was it Canibus lack of experience? Whatever the reasons may have been the outcome meant disaster for Canibus. Thus, making Bis another notch on LL’s belt. Let’s take closer a look at why things went down the way they did.

lyrics - 9/10

LL COOL J VS CANIBUS THE TALE OF THE TAPE STATISTICS ACCORDING TO TIME OF BATTLE (1998) 6”0 HEIGHT 5”9 30

AGE

23

14 YEARS 6 Queens RAISED Queens Smooth STYLES Lyrical Experience

ADV

Hunger

3-0 RECORD 0-0

He was so particular with everything h said. “You walk around showing off to body cuz it sells/ Plus to avoid the fa that you ain’t got skills.” Was it true

facts - 8/10

“99% of you fans wear high heels.”I say that’s about accurate. “You stud my rhymes/ Then you laced your v cals after mine” LL used to sniff coke

humor - 5/10

This wasn’t meant to be a funny di record. But some of the bars made m chuckle a bit. He was way too ang to focus on saying anything humorou

penetration - 7/10

Considering this was the lead sing for his album which ended up reachin the #2 spot on Billboard. Many thoug that this was the end of the road for L

37/50

THIS WHOLE BATTleing THING is OF THE PAST. I WAS WATCHING THIS DEBATE BY THE GOOD PEOPLE OVER AT JUMP-OFF TV ABOUT DISS

his. hine Bis.

he our act e?

I’d dy voe?

iss me gry us.

gle ng ght LL.

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THE RIPPER STRIKES

the aftermath : QUIT PLAYING YASELF

beat - 5/10

I don’t know who made this beat but I wish they went easy on the Captain America, super hero samples. The beat sounded like it wasn’t even finished yet.

lyrics - 6/10

That Jessie Jackson line was so trash.

When he tried to flip that Bis line about 99% of his fans I realized that LL was out of his lyrical weight class here.

facts - 5/10

You know what, Canibus probally did watch In Da House. Other than that he really didn’t say much that was factually. He didn’t drop any bombs.

humor - 9/10

He says so much shit from “Bob Marley imposter” to “I found you in a trash can” to “40lbs trying to be a mobster” Now that shit had me on the floor.

penetration - 8/10

From what I remember, this song got a lot more radio love than it should have. I heard this on an old Chubby Chub tape. IN CANADA!

33/50

adv = bis?

People didn’t wanna give an LL reply any breathing room. We wanted to crown Bis the king swiftly. But one thing that supersedes almost every category in Hip-Hop is longevity.

And LL had it by the truck load.

So when The Ripper Strikes leaked people credited LL for his legendary status and not his lyrically ability. That’s when the tables turned.

There are so many different stories as to what really started this beef. And in all honesty, Canibus side of the story seems to hold more merit and is also more logical. According to other emcees in the game, LL had a reputation for blowing things out of proportion. The two had a conversation afterwards.

LL treated the situation as if it was nothing. He really didn’t show Canibus much respect prior and after the fact. He never really talked about the issue again and went on to record five more albums before gracefully bowing out of the rap game after the release of Exit 13. He also went on to be nominated for 3 Grammys, starred in 14 movies and appeared in several TV series such as Oz, 30 Rock and more recently NCIS: Los Angeles. Dude had a hell of a career after this bout.

I think he won this war. But that’s beside the point. It seems like he sort of lost his mind after. Even though he continued to release albums it seems like the rap world wrote him off. So in 2002 Bis went to the military to “get away from the music.” Then he was discharged for smoking trees. He seemed bitter about the outcome of the battle and an interview on Invasion Radio explains this. Now he wants to diss J Cole?

Someone who idolized him? His elevator doesn’t go to the top floor.

nEXT : JADAKISS vs BEANIE SIGEL

There were times when I thought this beef was going to go from wax to the streets. But they used that same intensity and kept it on vinyl. I don’t think there was a clear cut winner here. This battle started with the two of them being guilty by association. Then it manifested into something of epic proportion.

DISS RECORDS. THEY CLAIM THAT SOCIAL MEDIA KILLED THE DISS RECORD. I AGREE. “TWITTER BEEF” WOULDN’T FLY back in the ‘90’s.

NEXT IN LINE

tona

scarborough, on, CAN

Why?

It’s hard for me to name five emcees out of Canada that are on Tona’s level lyrically. It’s hard for me to name five emcees in Canada that have a better catalog than Tona.

And it’s hard for me to name five emcees in Canada that have been able to remain relevant for this long without a major LP release.

These reasons and a slew of others are the reason why Tona will be the next emcee to make it big out of Toronto (with the exception of JD Era). His name is derived from his Tone of voice which is one of the best I’ve ever heard. Tona is well respected in his stomping grounds and also internationally. From his Don’t Holla EP to his project with Lyve, Tona has never disappointed when it comes to quality music. The thing about Tona that sticks to the ribs like soul food is the fact that he loves and respects the culture. And his material lets you know. He’s honest, flamboyant and charismatic all in one. The concoctions that he’s creating with Rich Kidd have me itching to hear Silver Spring Crescent. It’s only a matter of time until the nation takes notice.

A few other guys that you need to look out for are: childish gambino, k koke, asap rocky , jd era, ar-ab, maffew rag

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danny brown detroit, mi, USA

Why?

It’s actually a funny story about how I came across DB’s music. I was taking in a Sean Price song named Untitled. At the end of his verse he says “tight pants niggas can’t stand me now/ Fuck em all except Danny Brown.” So I did what any logical person would do. Went to YouTube and searched Danny Brown. Now had it not been for Sean P I may have kept sleeping on one of the most unique emcees of this era. If you notice he doesn’t have the “typical” rappers image. Don’t let that throw you off or fool you because he will bury a significant amount of lyricists that are out now. It’s hard to say who he sounds like because he pulls from so many different artists and in doing so created his own style. But he is very high octane and brings an energy that I can’t group with any of these new cats. He has a core following that’s growing like wild fire on the internet. And this collaborative project Black and Brown that he just released with Black Milk is something really fresh and feel good.

I’ll say it again DETROIT GETS SLEPT ON!

gazino, paris, action bronson, stalley and casey veggies. The game is in good hands. It’s a&r’s that are the problem.

LP Predictions

JUELZ SANTANA REaGAN ERA def jam

RELEASE DATE

Juelz needs to be really careful here. He’s been stringing along his very dedicated fans for some time now. Only so many times can you say “Coming Soon” when it comes to an album that is now four years in the making. So with that being said, with no official release date to my knowledge, I doubt this album will drop in the first quarter of 2012. That could be devastating. He needs to put something out. His product is in demand and he needs to deliver. A solid date would be nice though. I say this drops summer 2012.

sean price mic tyson duckdown

RELEASE DATE

I’ve heard some dates bounce around for this project.

I haven’t been too upset with this LP being pushed back because I know I’m gonna get a quality disc from President P. Will this album drop first quarter?

I’d like to think so. But it might be spring weather when it does. The good thing is that P has a cult following and it won’t really matter exactly when this CD drops regarding what or who else is out at that time. But does he have the patience to go as far as the label wants to take him with his release date?

quality of the LP

quality of the LP

penetration

Penetration

He’s capable of putting out smash singles. Mixing Up The Medicine and Back To The Crib were both album quality releases. If Juelz has cuts of that caliber in the stash then I’m confident that Reagan Era will be his best work to date. But I don’t want to hear an album with a few good singles and a bunch of fillers. Sure that will do fair sales wise, but to REALLY solidify himself, Juelz needs to put out his best work creatively and lyrically. The dynamics of the industry have changed and I know he can deliver. So I’m excited.

His last LP dropped in 2005. The game changed drastically within that time duration (YouTube was only 8 months old when BFTFT dropped). Although that album did go gold, how many fans really stayed true to the Diplomat for over half a decade? But can you name another rapper that has remained relatively relevant over a span of 5 years without dropping one studio LP? One thing that people tend to rest on when it comes to Sanata is his pen game. Match that to how he’s improved as an emcee in the past 5 years and we should be in store for something big.

Whether he wants to admit it or not, P has something to prove. He personally may not care but his fans do. What I’m alluding to is the simple fact that on any given day, Sean Price will dominate any other rapper in the association. He’s 15+ years deep in the game and is rarely if ever considered one of the best of his time. He needs to prove it with this album. Jesus Price Superstar is his best work to date.

That LP woke up the masses in my eyes. Mic Tyson needs to be better than that disc. I think it will be.

Good music doesn’t see the light of day. Although Ruck might be the highest priority at Duck Down right now, it’s hard to push major units when you are working off an indie label. But if there is one thing that the folks over at Duck Down have on smash, it’s the internet. That’s P’s best friend right now and that avenue will allow EVERYBODY to have access to this project. Sean P is worldwide.

I hope all get a taste of Mic Tyson. Mic Tyson will push more units than any of his prior LP’s. But will this album open him up to a larger fan base?

RAPPERS SHOULD GET MORE CREATIVE WITH THEIR LP COVERS. FOR THE MOST PART SOME HAVE TAKEN THOSE STEPS BUT OTHER RAPPERS

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nas ?

def jam

RELEASE DATE

Who the hell knows when this album is going to come out? Even though he isn’t on Columbia anymore, every release date I’ve ever heard from Nas has been pushed back with the exception of Illmatic because that came out of left field. With Nasty it really doesn’t matter. When Nas drops, the world stops. And it’s been 3 years since he’s dropped a solo project so once again the world is at a standstill. Well, my world. The lyrical world. The world where emcees are credited for their talent and not their hustle.

saukrates season one ?

RELEASE DATE

This is a similar to the Detox situation. After Underground Tapes I was like “Ok, so when can I get some more?” And for the last 10+ years I’ve been getting the run around. Not only do I not care about when he say this will drop but If the date gets pushed back I won’t lose any hair. But to be fair I’m not behind the scenes. His project might already be done and his label situation might be his biggest hindrance. Bottom line, If he says another date then it better be official and concrete. Because if it isn’t, who knows.

quality of the LP

quality of the LP

Penetration

Penetration

This is up in the air. Who knows what’s the quality of the LP is going to be. I’ll get to the raps later. As far as beats go, Nas has a history for picking or having access to poor instrumentals. That can’t happen this go around. He needs to have the cream of the crop in his arsenal. I just hope the people at Def Jam can make it happen. When I heard that verse he dropped on Wayne’s LP it told me a few things. #1.

It showed me that Nas is better than everyone else breathing. #2. It showed me that he is hungry again.

This is interesting. There are a barrel of kids out there who know nothing about Nas but know that he is etched as one of the greatest. Since young bucks refuse to do history maybe this album will serve that purpose. Maybe it will merge his old, dedicated fans with his new and fresh fans. With that being said, who knows how many albums he will push? I’m thinking he might go gold after a while but in this economy, platinum status seems a little far-fetched for this QB vet. I do feel that this album will work as a tool for Nas to mildly reinvent himself.

First I heard Wednesday and I was SUPER excited.

Then I heard Mega Man and was utterly disgusted.

So I don’t know what to expect when it comes to this project. Soxx has the potential to do something EXTREMELY damaging to the rap game. But is that what’s on his agenda? This is the question. When I heard Mega Man it made me sick. Maybe it’s because I am such a Soxx supporter. I just felt that was some BS for him to leak to the masses. I felt like he forgot about me. Am I being too personal?

This is all going to come down to the machine that is behind him when this project drops. If he has a dedicated team that believes in this project and its potential then he will cover a lot of ground and maybe stamp himself once again as one of the god fathers of Canadian rap. But in this economy that’s wishful thinking. Now if that trash single Mega Man is his single for this project then he will move a significant amount of units. But carrying on with that wave he’ll lose a fair number of his core fans. So the question here is what market is he trying to penetrate?

RAPPERS PUT TOGETHER SOME GARBAGE COVERS. HANDS CROSSED, FACE SHOT, BORING TEXT. WHO is WORKing FOR THESE PEOPLE?

PG

It’s the best time to be a female emcee. Not to mention it is an even better time to be ultra talented. Pg can sing and rap. with her debut last year receiveing sizable praise, expect pg to continue to be in her element in 2012 and rep t.o.

Your PGTV videos pretty much a but for the sake of our readers, pl who you are.

PG is an up-and-coming singer/rapper fr determined individual. Like I say in PGTV I may come off as a bitch, but most times

Speaking of environments, your t your career so far. Explain the im people in your corner, but the righ

I think you are right; it’s exactly about ha not the amount of people, but it’s the wo want it as bad as you as well as believe that you may not believe in yourself. It is the business and can always be in your around. In this industry it is definitely ver behind you.

How important is it for you to port content of your music?

In my opinion, I think it is important for m don’t know what the ‘right’ image is per s fake is too much work.

The project Elements of PG. Tell tion, Collaborations).

Initially when I started recording this proj with no real direction. Bass Line was sen recording. When no one else was messi me beats and good ones at that, which is project was so versatile and we were bra so many aspects of me without having th

12

answer who you are as an artist lease give us a brief summary of

rom Toronto. PG is hard working and a V I like to get things done, so sometimes s I try to be a nice person.

team is doing a great job with mportance of having not only ht people behind you.

aving the right people behind you. It’s ork ethic in those small few. They have to in your music even during those times s also important to have people who know best interest so you’re not being jerked ry important to have the right people

tray the right image to reflect the

me to portray the image that I speak of. I say but I like to do me in my music. Being us about that. (Theme, Produc-

ject I was young and I was recording nding me beats and I kept writing and ing with me Bass Line was there to give s why he is on 90% of the project. This ainstorming how we could incorporate he name sound corny. We were able to

come up with The Elements of PG which nicely incorporates my singing and rapping as well as the many emotions I go through, hence the mock of the periodic table of PG elements. I really wanted all the supporters to get a feel for who PG is with this project so I do not have much collaboration. However, I feel the collaborations I do have were necessary.

Is there any element of PG that will surprise people when they listen to this album?

Haha, I’m not sure. For some people, the element of surprise may be different. I don’t know. Maybe the raw content of the rap tracks. The intimacy talked about in some of the singing songs. The depth of the soul tracks. I really don’t know I think it’s up to the listener.

What are your thoughts on the hip-hop/urban music industry in Toronto?

I believe Toronto is in a good position right now with hip-hop. We need to take advantage of the doors that are being opened for us because other pioneer artists have worked so hard to open those doors to Canadian hip-hop. Moreover, the support starts with fellow Canadians supporting their Canadian industry.

There are definitely areas we need to work on but for the most part I believe Toronto can really wake people up.

Do you anticipate leaving Canada to take your career to the next level?

It’s something that has definitely run through my mind more than once. I’m trying to perfect my craft and sometimes you have to roll where the big dogs roll. I like Toronto, so I don’t know it’s something to ponder.

What do you think about the recent shake up at Flow 93.5? Do you think it will have long lasting effects on the industry’s progression in Toronto?

I believe in many ways it will have a long lasting effect on me personally because

in my opinion i think it’s important to poFlow 93.5, specifically P-plus and Ritz were one of the first people to play my joints mixed in with the mid-day mix. I don’t know the technicalities of the situation, but I do know this has happened and now is the time for artists to find other ways of branching off. Flow 93.5 helped many artists locally but now we have to use that stepping stone to enhance the grind and get on other radio stations elsewhere.

Who are you listening to right now? Local and international artists.

I try to take in as much Toronto content as possible because this is what affects me. Even if it means going on Facebook and clicking a random link that someone has posted on my wall. Andreena Mill, Kim Davis, Rick Kidd, Amir V, Richie Sosa, Aion Clarke, Shi Wisdom, Kyauna, Hakeem, Untitled to name a few. I have a lot of Toronto content on my iPod. Some people may get mad I didn’t mention their name but I’m listening. Internationally, Frank Ocean, I’m still on my Janelle Monae, Beyonce, Jessie J, Adele, Lauryn Hill, Musiq Soulchild, Jazmine Sullivan and everyone knows I love me some J. Cole.

If PG wasn’t pursuing music what would she be doing?

I’d be working with youth as a Child and Youth Care Counselor, which is what I go to school for so I guess I’m kind of pursuing that as well.

Random: You get $10,000. How do you spend it?

I’d try and figure out how to invest or flip that money so I can make more money to invest in my music and advance my career.

What’s your most memorable experience you’ve had as an artist?

Too many things to remember, some which come to mind; the first time I learned to do a harmony. The first time I wrote a song by myself. The first time I performed. I sang back up for Lokz who opened for Day26 and Drake. The first time someone told me I was good, and

the right image is per say but i like to do me in

13

tray the image I speak of. I don’t know what the first time someone told me I sucked. I remember a lot of the little things that mean a lot to me.

If you got the opportunity to collaborate with anyone for your dream project, who would it be?

I have a lot of people I would love to collaborate with. We’d be here all day if I went through all of them. This question is something to think about.

What is the next step after the release of The Elements of PG? The grind continues. In the future more music, more videos, more grinding.

my music. being fake is too much work. pg on: her image

This is a question I’ve always wanted to emcee. Who was your most difficult bat

My most difficult battle is always with myself. I c so much pressure on myself that sometimes I h and keep it moving. I’m my own worst critic. As opponent is difficult, if anything, I feel like I could even when I win, I still look back and feel that w

You seem to be making a smooth trans as a battle rapper to a legitimate song m battle rappers to do that?

Iron solomon

Iron solomon made me want to study the art of battling. it’s not respected as it should be. Solomon however has made the transition from battle mc to well rounded artist. his monster LP will be proof come march 27th.

Thank you! I think the difficulty in being success when it comes to creative exploits, is always be your craft, and figuring out how to be better tom Winning a battle and writing a song that’s comp things. There are obviously similarities and skill the same. When MC’s get so much positive feed us start to really believe that because we’re grea great across the boards. When you hit the studi yourself the room to learn how to be a great son step back into being an amateur.

What are the key elements of winning a

Charisma, confidence, and knowing your audien

Who do you respect more? The emcee written raps or the emcee that comes o

I respect people who are great at their craft, wh would put at the top are those that can do both, could destroy freestyle MCs and vice versa. Eac

14

o ask a real seasoned battle ttle against and why?

takes great talent, intelligence and practice. As long as you’re doing something creative and advancing the art form then I respect it.

can be such a perfectionist and put have to struggle to stay positive far as battling, I never feel like the d have done better. Sometimes way.

Even though a lot of emcees come with written raps, how important is it for an emcee to rag on the other emcee with obvious punch lines that are clearly off the top? Even making fun of something that the emcee is wearing. Stuff like that?

sition from being recognized maker. How hard is it for

sful in any area, but particularly eing open to learning, improving morrow than you were yesterday. pelling are two completely different sets that overlap, but they’re not dback from their battles, most of at in that one area, that we’re just io with that attitude you don’t give ngwriter. It takes a lot of humility to

a rap battle?

nce.

e that comes to a battle with off the top?

hatever it is they do. The people I but there are written MC’s who ch is a highly specialized skill that

respect and appreciate that dedication, and knowing that one event could limit your ability to participate in the way you’ve fantasized since you were a kid, is definitely a sour feeling.

Did you ever think that you wouldn’t be able to make the crossover from battle rapper to a legitimate rap artist?

Although I don’t consider it an absolute requirement, I think having the ability to freestyle or be spontaneous in any circumstance is definitely an added bonus, and can be a really important part of being a well rounded MC. Used in the right way, it can be a valuable tool, or weapon when entering a battle or cipher. It can also really help the creative process when recording songs. Sometimes the first thing you think of is the best thing for a song, whether it’s a flow, concept, or specific words.

You know, my whole family is full of musicians, I pretty much grew up in recording studios and boardrooms, so the idea of being successful in the music industry was never far-fetched to me. I’ve never had a back-up plan or an alternative to making music. It’s the only thing I’ll be happy doing. I produce, play instruments, direct videos, design artwork, and I’m very involved in the business and marketing side of things as well. There’s a time limit on everyone’s fifteen minutes, so if I’m not in the spotlight forever I’ll be able to do something else within music that’s just as big.

Can a battle MC live a good life financially and maintain off of battling?

If your career was on the fritz and you had to pick one emcee to battle to resurrect your career who would it be and why?

A lot of rappers make a lot of money battling. I myself have been able to travel all over the world, and have built my entire studio off of battle winnings. There probably is a time limit on it though, people get tired of seeing the same MC over and over again, so there might be difficulty in trying to maintain longevity. But a talented MC with a good business sense can keep themselves relevant and profitable in the battle arena for a bunch of years.

Wow, that’s a pretty interesting question. I don’t think it’s ever really about the opponent. If the fans aren’t excited about an artist, they can go against whomever and it might be hot for the moment, but it’s not going anywhere. That being said, I’d probably pick Eminem or Jay-Z, they’re two of the GOATS and are really in a class of their own, having longevity and relevance beyond hip-hop while still being respected as super lyrical MC’s at the root of the culture.

I’ve seen you destroy a good amount of emcees in the cage. In some cases you’ve put nails in a few coffins. Are you at all sympathetic towards some of them?

As far as these industry lames go, how do you feel about emcees getting called out on wax and pulling that whole ‘silent treatment’ thing?

Yeah, to be honest I do sometimes. I mean, obviously they know what they’ve signed up for, and they’ve ended some careers as well, but nonetheless it doesn’t feel good to be on the other side of things. Overall, pretty much everyone I’ve faced is really passionate about hip-hop culture, and their craft as an MC. I

I think you have to pick and choose your battles. A million and one people have said a million and one things about every MC in the spotlight. You have to know when it’s worth it or not. When you respond to someone who’s not really on your playing field or in a position to challenge you, you’re validating their criticism, and

reducing yourself to their level. I can say anything I want about anyone, but it doesn’t become real or true until they respond. KRS-One said it best. He let us know that if MC Shan hadn’t responded to him, he wouldn’t have a rap career at all.

You have this expression on your face. This “your raps aren’t shit” expression on your face when your opponent is on the mic. You seem very composed. Talk to me about that.

Ha! That’s hilarious. You know, when I first went on my killing spree, battling any and everyone across the country, I really felt like most of them didn’t deserve to be on a stage, or any microphone whatsoever.

I hold myself to really high standards, and have a great deal of reverence and respect for hip-hop culture, so anyone who was nonchalant enough to feel like they could take their wack fucking rhymes to the masses, needed to be executed. This was the fuel that helped drive my killing machine. That type of confidence, and entitlement, like ‘I am the only one who deserves to be here and it’s my duty to wipe the floor with this worthless scumbag’, is the winning ingredient in any battle.

As soon as you lose your composure, or start to even slightly entertain the idea that you could lose or don’t deserve to totally annihilate your opponent, then you’ve already lost.

Why do battle rappers get louder when they realize they’re about to lose? I’ve always wondered thet.

That’s a good observation. I think in any situation when you start to lose footing you scramble to get back up. The ones who can stay calm and focused in those moments have a chance of coming back and winning, or at least going down with dignity. You get louder to try to look more dominant, but in any argument the one who’s barking the loudest

When you respond to someone who’s not on your playing field or

15

Could anybody ever say anything to you that would be ‘crossing the line’ or is all fair in love and battle?

That’s a tough one. I guess you never really know what ‘crossing the line’ is until it happens and you lose your shit. For us growing up in New York, we’re always sparring with our words. Even to this day when I kick it with my closest friends we spend most of the time talking shit to each other, saying stuff that most people would fight over.

You have to have a thick skin in this city. I don’t think I’d ever lose my shit over something someone said in a battle, but as a man, there are certain things you don’t speak about. If someone needs to stoop so low as to cross that line, and can’t just rely on their abilities as an MC, the only thing I’d lose is my respect for them.

When can we expect Monster to drop and what can we expect from is as far as production, features and feel?

The ‘Monster’ album is looking like a fall release. Late September, October. It’s a real ALBUM. Not a mixtape, not a bunch of radio songs that don’t belong together, not the same song over and over again. I take being an MC and an artist very seriously, and to me that means being well-rounded. I go through all the emotions and sentiments on the album that I’ve gone through in my life, or that you might go through in any given day. Party shit, arrogant shit, aggressive, introspective, story-telling, I talk about relationships with women, my friends, the struggle of balancing music with my personal life, and the stresses of trying to be successful. I think everyone will be able to relate to what I’m saying in my music because it’s all real human experiences. I’ve been through a lot in my life and I’ve always been surrounded by a lot of different types of people, so for me,

telling our story is the most compelling thing. As far as production, I did it all in-house. For the most part, it’s me and Isaiah, we produced, co-produced, or collaborated on pretty much everything.

With the resurgence of the female emcee in recent years, what’s your take on their battle field?

‘‘

is usually the one who has the least to say.

There are some incredible female MC’s jumping in the arena right now. I think it’s really important to have that balance of energy. A lot of hip-hop, and battling in particular, can be

very masculine. We always want to assert our dominance as a way of proving our abilities as lyricists. Having females to balance that shows there’s much more to it. I hope we keep seeing more and more female MCs.

r in a position to challenge you, you’re validating their criticism.

IRON SOLOMON on: responding to a diss track

MILLI millz

milli millz is ringing alarms nationwide. eariler in the year he released his debut mixtape the detour that was well recieved by hip-hop critics. with a debut lp set for 2012, heads are salivating for highway to millz.

‘‘

I would need a whole article

When did you realize that you wanted to emcee professionally?

I would have to say it all started for me roughly tw started taking things seriously.

One thing I can say about you is you hav There’s something about Montreal emce demeanor. What is it?

It’s just my confidence, and certainty in my craft. of person. Life is too short. I’m just trying to enjo

Your collection of songs has something f very well rounded emcee. What was you

I grew up around Black, Whites, Hispanics, Indian was very multicultural; so I understand the differe people have on life. Just like any kid, I had my up tantly I’ve always overcome any obstacles thrown music that charisma you spoke about earlier show whether it be about something positive that occur can feel it’s coming from the heart, no fake shit.

You opened for Wiz last year. Around the fire. What did you take/learn from that w

I learned that I was on the right path and sooner t that he’s in. I’ll be headlining shows of that calibe just need to keep pushing and stay focused.

16

e to explain the magnitude and impact he had on the montreal scene milli millz on: bad news browns impact on mtl Right now I’m seeing the most unity in Canada I’ve ever seen. If you could do an album with another Canadian emcee who would it be and why?

will have a bit more features then The Detour but other than Avery Storm and Sammie, I gotta keep the other names confidential. I can’t release any other names yet.

ve a lot of charisma. ees that shows in their

There are so many great musicians in Canada but as of right now I am focus on my personal career. That’s just my mind frame right now. But if I had to choose I would love to work with K-OS one day. He’s real talented. I’d like to work with Drake as well.

You pay a lot of respects to Bad News Brown. What was your relationship with him like and what did he mean to the hip-hop scene in Montreal?

I’m all around an energetic type oy my life to the fullest.

Toronto is often looked at as the emcee capital of Canada. But Montreal has a lot of talent. How is Milli Millz gonna help bring Montreal to the world?

o turn things up and be an

wo years ago. That’s when I

for everybody. You’re a ur life like growing up?

ns and Asians. My environment ent perceptions and outlooks ps and downs but more imporn in my path. I think through my ws there’s a passion when I rap rred in my life or negative. You

e time he really caught whole experience?

than later I’ll be in the position er in a minute. I learned that I

I’m just gonna keep doing what I’ve been doing and turn it up a notch. I know the hard work is going to pay off. It’s just a matter of time for me. I’m excited though, my popcorns out. Feels like a movie and my team has all the major roles.

A good amount of months have passed since you released The Detour. Have you been pleased with the success of the mixtape?

I received an overwhelming response for The Detour. I expected it to get a good response but I didn’t know it would have reached the amount of people and countries that it did. I truly see it all as a blessing.

When can we expect Highway To Millz and what can we expect from it collaboration and production wise?

No exact date as of yet but it will drop soon. As far as production right now there’s Notchz, Dirtwork Productions, Jahlil Beats and a few others. The mixtape

Bad News Brown is a legend in Montreal and will never be forgotten. I would need a whole article to explain the magnitude and impact he had on the Montreal Scene. We are all still mourning his passing.

What’s it like performing in front of a Montreal crowd as opposed to any other city in Canada?

It’s cool. I love it. They’re very responsive. They show love and they rock out with me all the time. I got to crowd surf at my last show so that was hella cool. I have yet to perform in Toronto so I’m anxious to see what their crowds are like.

In your Black and Yellow freestyle you rep Montreal really hard.

Fuck that, you rep Quebec in its entirety. You have a lot of pride for where you come from. Not a lot of emcees up north embrace their residence. What’s your take on that?

Montreal is my home. I’m actually born in Barbados but Montreal is where I was raised. Quebec is our province. A lot of people were successful from MTL but when they got a little fame they forgot about us. When I do it, I’m bringing everyone. The world is going to know about MTL believe that!

S.A.S. UK artists have a special place for their ears of their fans up north. the parallels are uncanny. so after brushing off beefs and releasing galaxy fly last year, this duo seems more focused than ever.

How did you two end up forming S.A.S.

I was staring at him when he popped out our mo baby – LOL – we’re biological brothers, same m ers but best friends, so when I got hooked on H myself how to rap with metaphors and wrote his own. We didn’t take rap serious til ‘98/99’ when and that’s when we started calling ourselves S.A

Go into the origin of that name a little b

Basically we took that name because to our kno (Secret Air Service) are the most elite fighting re British. Then we had to make our own acronym About Stacking because we was getting that str switched to Streets All Salute when we moved b the credibility of surviving and being extremely a epidemic of the late 90s and early 2000s.

What were your first big experiences m know that this was definitely something full time?

When we did our first ever show in Binghampton Also the battles we had in Marcy projects, 42nd So you guys originally went to America

Yeah, we played at a very competitive level in U to the next level the only real option was and sti the US.

Talk about the culture shock you guys e America.

17

.?

others’ womb when I was a mother and father. We’re brothHeltah Skeltah at 15, I taught s raps till he started writing his we was in high school in NY A.S. (Strictly About Stackin).

bit more.

owledge, the real S.A.S. egiment in the world but are for it which was initially Strictly reet money in NY. It then back to UK because we had active in the East Coast gang

music wise that let you two g you wanted to pursue

n, NY and got groupies lol. d street and St. Nick, Harlem. to play basketball?

UK and if you wanted to take it ill is going to school and train in

experienced coming to

Everything was different, from the schooling to the lifestyle in the streets. So different we didn’t like it for the first six months. By the year 2000 we never wanted to come back to UK to live again lol.

When is the next time you guys are gonna be in Toronto and what do you think about the hip-hop scene in Canada (artist you check for)?

You guys lived some pretty exciting lives. Tell us your craziest experience living that street life in America and in the UK?

We waiting on the date for a mini S.A.S. club tour of Canada as we speak but who really knows. There always seems to be problems with getting us there because I guess it’s easier to fly Americans in, rather than British artists *shrugs*. In Canada we check for Richie Sosa, P Reign, we did a remix with Peter Jackson’s ‘Miss Right’ and of course Drizzy Drake Rogers.

There’s too many to count man haha, erm … when I got shot outside high school it was a bit crazy cause I was in the middle of a fight and I had someone behind me with a .357 basically shooting at me point blank range but I couldn’t see him, just the flames flying past me. Mega’s one is were we was in Brooklyn outside a club and some rival Crip Staten Island dudes tried to box us in, parking in particular spots and reaching under the seat. Lucky for us our doozy Eli went in his car and had us shielded ready for action so they backed off when it seemed like we was prepared for action.

UK emcees seem to have a particular style. The Jamaican influence in their vocabulary and that UK swag sets them apart. How important is it for emcees outside of North America to sound unique and not like your typical American emcee?

Very important! Why would someone trade being unique to sounding like everyone else in the US when the competition level there is the greatest when it comes to hip-hop music? Being yourself is always the best way forward.

There are so many emcees coming out of the UK from K. Koke, Lowkey, Logic and yourselves. Is the UK about to make big strides in crossing over to a North American audience?

That, I do not know. I only know what our camp is doing. I don’t really see what other artists in UK are doing till it’s already done. I know Eurogang got a US buzz in the streets through mixtapes and Tinie Tempah has sold a lot of his ‘Written in Stars’ singles in US, but that’s about it.

There are a lot of similarities with us Canadians and you guys in the UK wouldn’t you say?

Canadians speak the same slang as us in UK. Canada is like UK & US mixed together. The women are pretty. Best smoke in the whole world … besides

“runway, thats my nick name/ I get rid of birds pawned off my dip chain” Mayhem

L.A., and I’ve noticed our buzz in the streets there is very, very serious!

What was it like working on and putting together Galaxy Fly? It was fun, like an adventure cause we recorded 80% of it in a Pro Tools studio in Rome, Italy and it was the first time going there. It was refreshing to record a body of work in a different country besides UK or US. You guys had a falling out with Dipset but Cam’Ron and Vado are featured on Galaxy Fly. Is it safe to say that the hatchet has been buried?

We didn’t fall out with Dipset, we fell out with Juelz Santana over a very silly situation he handled all wrong. We always been cool with Killa and never got into a disagreement with Jim either. We wish ‘em all the best on that reunion but we left Dipset in ’07 because we felt we could never reach our true potential musically being under that brand, no love lost.

Where do you guys see yourselves in five years?

We have no idea, we live each day as it comes. Certain little events trigger off major ones and you end up somewhere completely different from where you first presumed you would be.

What one thing have you guys learned through the years as far as how to stay relevant in the industry?

Reinventing yourself every now and again. We’ve always been versatile so it really didn’t matter to us which way the game went. We’ve learned to flourish in ANY environment and still be trendsetters basically.

‘‘

CANAda is like the u.k. women are pretty, bes

18

s.a.s. on: their perception of canada

Speaking of setting trends, you guys say you were one of the first ones to rock designer labels in the industry/streets. Now everybody is breaking their pockets to get some Gucci and Fendi.

Would you guys say trend setting is a part of who S.A.S. is?

Defo! And I just now mentioned that briefly. Mainly because we never been ones to follow the crowd. When everyone’s on Adidas, we’re on Puma. If you’re on Gucci, we’re on Fendi. Pulled out that LV luggage on a mixtape cover before anyone! Not cause it was cool to the hip-hop community but cause it was cool to us. We’ve actually been seeing LV monogram symbols before we knew what Disney characters were. Blame our Mother!

Who do you guys have your sights set on as far as collaborations (artists and producers)?

Features, erm, The Clipse, Slick Rick and that’s about it. Producers … it doesn’t even matter anymore, whoever got the bangers … actually, Bangladesh is a mad man with it, Jahlil Beats too.

What’s next for S.A.S./ Eurogang (maybe solo projects)?

Big singles! We strictly focused on the UK right now and have been for over the last year. A body of work won’t come till the right machine does, we good off just singles for now. Look out for ‘Ready’ feat. Chipmunk & Eric Bellinger.

“can’t wait to drop when will the hatin’ stop/ must be sippin loads of patron if you takin shots ” Mega

. & U.S mixed together. st smoke in the world

You say you first learned how to make Master Flex Beat Maker. How do you fe technology and software has affected t

The internet has definitely given me the ability to the popular induction of Pro Tools and all the dif software out, making music has never been eas now you don’t need any kind of music and in so people who know musical theory may get over l

You seem to be taking full advantage o lowed you to connect with your fans on

It has allowed me to reach a much larger group It’s also given people a way to follow what I’m d be even learn from the mistakes that I’ve made. and feel like they have a personal relationship w Describe your sound.

J STAFFZ

having worked with artists from wiz khalifa to g-unit, this brampton native is building up quite the resume. and he’s only getting started. 2012 SHOULD BE INTeRESTING

Take classical music and some jazz. Mix it with and the hip-hop and R&B music of today. Now t and gun powder in there and you got J Staffz be

Ha! Other than the piano, what instrum or would like to learn how to use to exp skills?

The guitar. I can pretty much emulate any music with my hands on the piano except for the guita

What’s the best way for an artist to app one of your beats?

I wouldn’t want an artist to approach me. I’d rath be honest. I like picking who I work with as oppo

beats using Funk eel the advancement of the production game?

o learn a lot very fast. Since fferent music production sier. The only downfall is that ome cases I think that some looked.

of Twitter. How has it aln a personal level?

p of people at any given time. doing almost hourly and may. People actually respond with me.

19 That’s how it was back in the day. Producers picked the artists.

One thing I’ve noticed about you is you’re very intelligent.

What kind of a student were you in high school and how has that translated into your work ethic as a producer?

I was the worst student ever. I hated it. I have ADD. I barely graduated high school and when I went to college I used to skip class to make beats.

Funny because I went to college to get into Music Production and Audio Engineering and I skipped class to do the exact same thing.

A laptop, a MIDI controller (keyboard) and about 40GB of drums and VST plug-ins. Nothing too crazy. I play almost everything so I don’t sample much. I don’t even know how to turn on a MPC. How did you end up working with Wiz Khalifa?

I seen him on uStream one day and found out he was about an hour away from my house and I convinced my manager at the time to drive to where they were and they ended up using my beats. A few years later he blew up.

ments are you learning pand your beat making

You said somebody stole some of your beats and they ended up with G-Unit? How did that happen?

proach you if he wants

her hear about an artist to osed to artists picking me.

It was in the beginning, but now I feel like if I try hard enough that I can do anything I want. I didn’t have very big self esteem as a kid because I used to get teased and people thought I was weird. That doesn’t happen anymore at all.

Now I just feel invincible and unstoppable.

What do you generally use to construct your beats (equipment/software)?

the more popular drums throw some crack cocaine eats.

cal instrument in the world ar.

You seemed like a fairly big dreamer as a young child (drawing your own line of cars as a child). As if you had big expectations for yourself early on in life. Is any of this new found success overwhelming for you?

I don’t really know. They somehow found out about me and got a tip that they were mine so they called me and two years later they dropped a couple records on them.

Are you working exclusively with any artists (can we expect an artist to have a project with 100% J Staffz beats)?

I’m actually producing five whole albums right now but I can’t talk about it.

You’ll see.

Your father used to be a DJ. What type of music were you exposed to via your old man?

Soca, Calypso and Reggae. Both my parents are from the West Indies. That music is very bass line and drum driven. Just like hip-hop.

J Staffz Tweets: “Just saying. I don’t see any other girl in Toronto getting 10,000 views on her first video in 2 weeks. @MusicByDee #Team You stress the importance of making ‘as many beats as humanly possible. How many beats would you say you have in the vault right now?

What three items do you need to have with you in the lab?

Maybe about 70 for sale. I place bets with artists about ten to fifteen times a week. I’m working with five or ten artists at all times so I’m always selling. If it’s hot as soon as I make them, they’re gone. Sometimes I make a beat and sell it two hours after I make it so I have to make about two or three everyday. I’ve made about 1500 beats.

What’s your biggest pet peeve about the music industry and working with artists?

You seem like a perfectionist. Are you your biggest critic?

Yes. If I start making a beat and it doesn’t sound amazing 10-20 minutes into it I delete it and start another one. Perfection is limitless.

Can you remember what the first beat you made sounded like?

In one word. Garbage. Next question.

With this recent emergence of Canadian hip-hop, how important do you feel it is for Canadian producers to work with Canadian emcees?

It’s not important at all. It’s cute but at the end of the day I’m not working with a rapper just because he’s from my block and people think he’s cool and he’s the worst rapper alive. I think good artists should work with good producers. Where you’re from has nothing to do with anything.

1. Champagne or wine 2. Friends 3. A piano

Artists who want hand outs. Those people that think they’re so good that they deserve a 10 million dollar deal and haven’t released one mixtape or shot one video ever.

In the midst of you invading our Twitter timeline I noticed that when you tweet that you are looking for artists to work with that you stress ‘SERIOUS INQUIRIES ONLY’. What’s the worst experience you have had with an artist who just wasn’t serious about their own movement?

A few years ago I had an artist give me $100 as a deposit for a beat. The beat was $300 in total. I didn’t get the other $200 for almost two years. Then he got mad because I gave the beat to someone else. Let’s just say I no longer take deposits.

Metal Works is one of – if not the – biggest studio in Canada. I’m sure a slew of artists would love to work there. How did you end up inside their doors?

If you could pick ANY five artis beats what would your lineup b

Biggie featuring Eminem, Jay-Z, Lil W Staffz, Stevie Wonder & Dr. Dre) I heard you rhyming when you Show. You got bars too?

I’ve been chilling with rappers every d free beats and studio time. Why not?

You bought ten copies of TML. support Canadians as far as hi

Not one bit. On average can you nam even five Canadian rappers? I doubt country will ever be known for hip-hop Anything you would like to say

They’re probably not reading this any sitting there thinking ‘Yo why does J S That’s when I look at them funny and

It’s pretty easy actually. I went there for school before I dropped out so I went a lot before I ever worked there. I called and booked an appointment and paid them. Very simple.

J Staffz Tweets: “Failure is not failure if you learn the lesson and change your habit... Turn failure into success by pushing throu

sts to jump on one of your be?

Wayne & Pharrell (Co-Produced by J

were on The Come Up

day since I was about 18 plus I get

. Do you feel that Canadians ip-hop is concerned?

me 5 “major”Canadian artists or it. I do my part but I don’t think this p. to the haters or doubters?

yways. If they are, they’re probably Staffz get interviews yo? He’s wack.’ walk away with their girlfriend.

ugh!”

‘‘

‘‘

mDeeForLife”

20

I do my part but i don't think this country will ever be known for hip-hop. j staffz on: canadian hip-hop

slauson marathon av

When WE Talk about new school emcees, names LIKE j cole, drake, B.O.B. and so on OFTEN COME UP. But in my opinion, nipsey's name isn’t mentioned as often AS OTHERS. But with the recent release of his highly acclaimed mixtape tmc, the apettizer to his debut studio LP, all that is about to change real fast.

COVER - NIPSEY HUSSLE

You have one of the more intere there any type of origin or story

It really just started off with my homies I’ve always had a reputation of being a grind. So they were just clowning givin They threw that one at me and it stuck get into this rap thing the name had so sense so I stuck with it.

What was it like growing up on

I was born in 85 so I don’t really remem an adventure. It’s a really high energy on. LA is a one of a kind culture. But love how I was raised.

Ok, so as far as rapping goes, w in your life that made you say to emceeing thing seriously?”

Yeah there was. It was when I was abo love with music and always wanted to was there was no immediate payoff. T But I realized that it could be a way for I finally got to a financial position wher wanted like cars, jewelry and my own that was unfulfilled in my life. I realized this is what I’m supposed to be doing w and Slauson where there is always a q So I actually sold all those material thin started going at this music thing full thr

There are SO many artists com Way too many for me to mentio artists out west?

21

esting names in hip-hop. Is y behind it?

s saying it in a joking manner at first. a young nigga that was always on his ng each other different nick names. k over time. So when it was time to ome sort of reality to it. It just made Slauson & Crenshaw?

mber the 80’s. But the 90’s was like life out here. There was a lot going considering the good and the bad I

was there a defining moment o yourself “I wanna take this

out 18. Growing up I was always in do it. But the only thing about that The gratification was always delayed. r me to take care of myself. So once re I had the things that I needed and spot, I still felt like there was a void d shortly after that it was music and with my life. I grew up on Crenshaw question mark on your life expectancy. ngs, moved in with my brother and rottle.

ming out of California right now. on. How is the unity between

This is actually something I spoke on before. I believe what’s good for me is good for everybody in Cali. We all share that category of “new school artists.” So the bigger that category gets, the bigger every artists in that category gets. The bigger Dom Kennedy gets the bigger Kendrick gets.

The bigger Kendrick gets the bigger Nipsey gets and so on. That’s my understanding on how this thing works. As far as my involvement in the movement, I’m always gonna push the status quo and bring that respect back home. I’m not just a regional artist. And I believe we all have the potential to be worldwide artists that represent the culture of California. And I got a lot of respect and love for some of these dudes on a street level aside from the music.

need material ready to go. So if I was to do another situation with a major it would be more of a partnership because and an independent artists I’m already established. Honestly, an artist can do 175,000 in his first week but he/she isn’t on a major. Everything that artists do is either viral or shows and he can have a lot of success. Look at Tech N9ne. This is the age of the independent artist.

With that being said how important do you feel it is for artists to own their own publishing?

I feel that. And I guess that’s why you have such a strong core fan base. So many other artists share fans with other artists.

I even remember you saying on one of your tracks that on any given night you could get $10,000 a show and you’re not even signed to a major. Given that type of success, would you even consider signing to a major?

That’s a question that I deal with and meditate on almost every day. At the beginning of my career I was signed to Epic records so I’ve already been through that situation. Now, I don’t believe that all artists on major labels are treated badly but things have changed in the past few years. There is a lack of control that an artist has on a major. Not to mention an artist can have creative differences with his label, still be under contract and still be obligated to that contract. I don’t look at radio and TV as my primary source of reaching out to my fans. I like to cut out the middle man. There’s payola grinds, internet grinds and things of that nature that work for me. It just so happens that my fans pay attention to these things also. I’ve been fortunate enough to experience both sides of the industry, step back and analyze things. A major can turn you into a worldwide household name but might have an artist doing things they might not want to do. As far as me, if a major was to step in they would need to do it at the right time. And all I would want is for them to compensate me for my expenses. But I have my own theory on how a situation would work on a label. Plus there’s no more A&R-ing, artist development or cultivating of these artists and brands. They

At the end of the day it comes down to preference. Then it comes down to what type of artist you are. For some artists it doesn’t even matter if they own their publishing or not. For me it’s WAY different. I started off with 5’s, 10’s and 20’s in a paper bag selling my mixtapes. So my environment translated through the style of music I made. You can see that if you go back to the beginning of my catalog. I had a guerrilla warfare mentality

when I was moving my music. And I believed in what I was doing and didn’t want to compromise my talent. Every artist doesn’t think like that. So it really goes back to being honest with yourself and what type of artist you are. Is it that big of an issue for you to own your own publishing? Do you feel like your music is even that important to you and would have sentimental value? Some music comes and goes and some music resonates for ages.

You’re even deeper than I thought. You really love and respect this culture. I’d like to know what you listened to growing up. What’s the first album you ever bought?

Umm, I think it was Tupac’s Me Against The World. But if it wasn’t that it was Warren G’s Regulator. After that one of the first few albums that I really listened to was Biggie’s Life After Death.

Ok, ok. So you’re stranded on an island and can only take three albums with you. Would it be those three you just mentioned?

One of them would be my original Marathon LP. Another one would be Blackstar by Talib and Mos. The third one would probably be..Ummm…Life After Death. I just feel like I’m entertained evey time I listen to that album.

Tell me more about the clothing store you own out on Crenshaw & Slauson.

It’s actually in the same parking lot I used to hustle around on

Crenshaw & Slauson. That’s where I bought my first car and used to sell my mixtapes at too. My brother had a lot of money saved up so he decided to open up a store and a lot of people in the area that we grew up with supported it. It’s interesting now because you see all types of people who normally wouldn’t even step foot in this area come out and buy Crenshaw hoodies, Marathon t-shirts and other garments. It’s perfect because it’s in the epicenter of where we grew up.

Damn! You’re arguably the most business minded emcee of your class. You even took the initiative to create your own studio. What are the advantages of having that access to the booth?

With me that’s been trial and error. I chose to build my own studio because I was feeling creative and wanted to be ready to go whenever I wanted. I just felt that if I owned my own studio I’d really be able to take a lead in this game. I needed that outlet to create. As soon as I have other priorities taken care of, rather than buying even more material shit like cars and jewelry I invested in my career. Why should I put myself in the position where I would have to depend on my label for studio time? I removed that headache from my situation. We live in an age where media is democratized so I want to be able to produce it at my leisure.

Same amount of money you would spend on your car note you could be spending on Pro Tools. It’s very important to have that type of control.

Very true. Hey, have you ever been out here to Canada?

22

Nipsey, I think it’s a little bit more than a few fans.

(Laughs) I get a lot of love from Canadians. When I first met Drake he was telling me I should be doing more stuff out there via Twitter. Now I got a whole bunch of girls hitting me up telling me they wanna see me perform. I just gotta work out my situation out.

He did say something to the effect of “Nipsey Hussle is the hardest” on Twitter didn’t he? That’s funny because my nephew is a Drake fan and became a fan of your music of the strength of that. Come to think of it a lot of artists have co-signed you. How important do you feel the right co-signs are?

I believe that it can be very important. But it’s not a “make or break your career” type of thing. A lot of artists happen to have a huge following and just them mentioning you can get people looking in your direction. I’ve also heard people call it the “Oprah Effect” where any product she mentions will be on the top best seller list the next week because her opinion is that powerful. But if she went around co-signing bullshit eventually people would stop sharing the same opinion as her. It’s important to be honest.

If you know about something you like speak on it. But do it for the right reasons. Be genuine about it. If I hear something I like I’m gonna speak on it. That’s the type of person I am.

That says a lot about your character and the type of person that you are. It’s evident in your music too.

That’s probably why you’ve been able to be as successful as you’ve been. Does it ever become difficult to separate yourself from the hood environment and essence of which you came from considering the two are like night and day?

As a human being it is. Emotionally I don’t think it’s even possible. It’s the hardest thing in the world to do. A lot of times I’ve had to physically remove myself from certain situations because of where I was and how negative my environment was at the time. There’s a stigma of a particular person who comes from a gang banging culture that becomes successful. When you’re out of town and not putting your life on the line or risking your freedom people like to assume you’re soft or you went “Hollywood.”

But that’s just their emotional reaction. You gotta think about it mathematically, dollars and sense, right and wrong. Opportunity doesn’t always knock at your door and if it does you better let it in. Don’t allow negative situations alter your course in life. Life is about evolution and progress.

‘‘

I’ve never been to Canada and I don’t know if I ever will unless they get a little bit lighter on some laws. I hope in time that I’ll be able to get my situation resolved and be able to get some work out there. A lot of fans and even promoters reach out to me from Canada that wanna see me out there so we’re gonna work on that. Absolutely.

South Central State Of Mind is a possible name for your debut album slated for release this year. What is the state of mind of maybe you and or the typical person living in South Central in 2012?

Nipsey on: owning your masters

‘‘

they say damn hussle you made it, I say naw you just th

As for me, my state of mind is global so represent or reflect these young niggas tral today. I’ve been exposed to a com life over these past three or four years. here that are banging haven’t really fig sad because people from Inglewood, L can all become successful but may not outlets. A lot of people just wanna smo and get money. The music has a lot to get me wrong people are still banging o scheme of things people just want to g it’s a fad or a trend but people say thing 20 years. I can’t necessarily call it but change.

Speaking about the music, you’v Marathon and now The Maratho a theme behind this or possibly behind these titles?

Man, my marathon started when I was draw, this is what I’m going through. It My mentality is I’m going hard for mine Being a product of what you say and b about for me.

On a lighter note I remember W ing you to stop smoking blunts.

23

hink basic - and if them niggas fly then i’m a spaceship

o it wouldn’t necessarily s growing up in South Cenmpletely different aspect of . But these young kids out gured shit out yet. And it’s Long Beach and Compton t have access to the same oke weed, drink, have fun o do with that too. Don’t out here but in the grand get money. I don’t know if gs repeat themselves every I’ve seen the movement

ve released The on Continues. Is there a deeper meaning

11 years old. Win lose or t’s my way of looking at life. e and I’m not gonna stop. believe. That’s what it’s all

Wiz and Spitta tellAnd I know you’re a

bars from: fly crippin

smoker so what do you prefer, papers or blunts?

When I’m in the streets I smoke blunts. Swisher Sweets. They hold up better in the wind and they burn slower that joints. But I don’t really do that anymore because I’m in the studio most of the time. And considering how much I smoke it’s more of a health issue too. Sometimes we don’t necessary think about the harm we’re doing to our lungs.

So who has the best weed outside of Cali?

I smoked good in Washington. I smoked good in Georgia. I smoked good in Miami. But yo, we got the best weed in Cali so I don’t really respect the smoke anywhere else. Other shit just isn’t in the same ball park. (Laughs) You also did some promo for Conjure Cognac. What was it like working with Luda and that brand and has it helped you in other aspects?

More than anything I respect Chaka and Luda. When they asked me to do that I was like “fo sho.” It was more so me stretching my respect to them. I think it showed other companies that I can connect with their core demographic and help promote their product on a professional level. It really worked for me in that respect.

You made some comments about Detox a while back about it always getting pushed back and not really

caring about it. I don’t want to quote you but I think it was something to that effect. Every time I hear you speak you sound very opinionated. Not a lot of artists are like that. They stay in safe mode and play the fence. Why do you think artists are so scared to speak their minds these days?

First of all I respect everybody and I expect the same in return.

Based on that, I feel like if I’m not getting the respect I deserve then I’m gonna address it. That’s how I live. That’s how I’ve always lived. As far as the Dr. Dre stuff I’ve made it clear that I’ve always had respect for him. It was never a diss. It was just my opinion. We all been waiting on Detox but my time is now. But it was never a diss so I don’t want people to get that misconstrued.

As far as other people not speaking their mind, I think they’re too concerned about what other people think and that’s not healthy.

You’re also very adamant in letting people know that you’re only interested in working with artists that want to work with you. How does that help or improve the chemistry on wax?

That’s how music should be but sometimes it can’t always be like that. Sometimes you wanna get a song done but you might not be in the same city or country as that other artist. We live in the email age so nine times out of 10 that’s how its gonna get done.

But when you can get both artists in the studio together you can feel it in the song.

Videos

B

I’m SO glad that No Ha used Rock The Bells to bring Chewy to life. I wanted a video for this song as soon as I heard it but never imagined that Chewbacca would actually be incorporated. He makes this video what it is. And what is it? -- real live hip-hop. His interaction with the fans is exactly what a real fan would do at a concert. Something tells me it was Black Milk in that suit but we’ll never know.

For the most part this is a simple video. Simple concept, simple delivery. But genius in its simplicity.

My favorite part was Roc Mos’ verse when they were in the trailer with Chewy. I’ve never really got the opportunity to see Roc interact with the lens like in this video. It made me even more of a fan.

The more I watched this video the more I realized how many cameos are in it. I saw RZA, Royce Da 5”9, and a few other heads show their faces in this video. I love when Chewy gets hammered at the end from all those brews and passes out on the tree. For some that’s traditional Rock The Bells conduct. To really appreciate a video like this you must have been to one of these types of outdoor festivals. The energy within them is exhilarating and No Ha did a great job of capturing that emotion.

random axe chewbacca duck down

77/100

tona - b

Just the way i tive really ma and in the son type of stuff r hasn’t called That’s some the more you ple/habits in y think that peo to his cameo slaughterer. A reconcile and That shot ma but mainly be more could h

82/100

THE THING I HATE MOST ABOUT VIDEOS THESE DAYS IS THE ACCESSORIES. RAPPERS FEEL LIKE PUTTING A FEW CARS AND BITCHES MAKES

24

break off

drake - headlines

NAS - Nasty

its shot alone interests me. That frame to frame perspecakes you pay attention to what’s going on in the video ng. Everybody has gone through or is going through this right now. Needing to break off from something. Who d into work sick like FUCK IT I HOPE THEY FIRE ME? relatable shit right there. The more you watch this video u realize that you need to break off from certain shit/peoyour life too. Tona makes a small cameo in this video. I ople need to see the chemist behind the creation. Back in the Benz, he plays the role of the Century Sam stress And it helps because when the star runs into his girl, they d all the bull shit that was going on between them died. ade me wanna hug wifey. The club scene hit me strong ecause of the bars Tona was spitting mainly. Something have happened that would have electrified that scene.

Let me say these two things off squeeze. #1 The cinematography in this video is insane. #2 FIRE YOUR STYLIST AUBRY! But hate if you want, this is top notch quality. My only issue with this video is when he portrays certain lyrics with his actions. It looks like he’s reaching. Nobody is scared of Drake. It eradicated the seriousness factor for me. I bet those are P Reign’s goons in that foyer shot. I’m not really feeling that Bohemian owl either. None the less, I really like the shots at the Skydome. It would seem as if he’s taking a more local route visually with this sophomore LP. About time! That elevator shot is nasty, I can’t tell exactly what part of Toronto that is but is a great capture of our skyline. He should have done that at night.

Although I do like the way the long table shot was done, you’re not a boss yet, relax. I can’t feel it. He really needs to chill with the cigars too. The best shot is at the end where the dome is opening up to the blue sky. Sharp! Not a bad video. But it’s below average creatively.

I really love how this video brings me back to the essence of Nasty Nas. Look how the women in the car are sweating him and he doesn’t even acknowledge them. He has that “been there done that“ look on his face. Then he alludes to being interested in Antonique Smith as she makes a blushful cameo. The second verse is a smooth transition from the lime light to the block. Look how the people are looking at him in awe. He peels of his flashy attire and sports something more street appropriate. Hailing everybody up at the dice game and interacting with the bucket drummer makes for a humble feel. When he was walking up those stairs it gave me that old QB tingle. 40-16 is his old building right? Is that his old apartment too?

I know that touched a lot of up and coming emcees in a different way. I’m glad the camera was on him the whole time. No random shots. It makes you appreciate the lyrics more. Continuous shots aren’t easy to do. And it’s nice how the video ends where it starts.

0

78/100

80/100

A

B

A

MAKES A GOOD VIDEO. THEN WHEN THEIR GARBAGE VIDEOS GET A MILLION VIEWS ON YOUTUBE THEIR HEADS GET SO SWOLLEN. SMH

Singles lyrics - 22/35

Materialistic females might not want to hear what’s being said on this record. “I got my own shit, but you don’t own shit/ You bone for a Sprint phone and your home rent.” TOO FUNNY! As far as trying to be super lyrical, that wasn’t the objective here.

Instead these guys dropped gem after gem about female’s motives and intentions. And the joke is this song was cut almost 5 years ago. You can tell because both emcees sound slightly younger.

63.9/100 favorite line

elzhi ft. promise save ya

C

production - 25/35

Not really a fan of T3. But I am a fan of this beat. I think because it was done justice lyrically, I was able to appreciate the beat more. Keep in mind that this beat was probably made over 5 years ago so disregard the fact that it might sound a little dated. The voice sample in the background breaks the monotony which makes the beat easier to enjoy.

I wasn’t feeling the drums used but about half way through this song I fell in love with the strings.

Promise really ceases to amaze and also humor me. “Fed you a meal, now you head over heels/ Dead it and chill, you would have got in bed for a bill.”

The thing that kills me about that line is it shows how thirsty some bitches can really be these days.

penetration - 16.9/30

This single is old so don’t expect it to get pushed hard. There really isn’t any type of machine behind this single so you’re not going to hear it in places that maybe we should. I’ve seen it pop up on a few blog sites but I’m yet to hear it get any attention on radio waves.

But for the few that do hear it, this will not only keep Elzhi’s name warm but it’s another notch under Promise’s belt as far as collaborations go. More artists will want to work with him after hearing this.

favorite verse - #3

I think the third verse is when he really goes in. It sounds personal to be honest with you. I prefer that verse the most because I can visualize how it would look if they were to make a video for it. Things were said in that verse that many men and even women can relate to.

JD ERA f lyrics -

The thing I always step Dirty Water, spitting at a of Rae. On verse that h on this vers

produc

I haven’t he heat rock. I to end of ea anticipate w school feel cutters are style and he

penetra

I’ve been h be. Not lik I haven’t re ten to it o bump it fo

71/100

B

f. raekwon - payday2 27/35

I love about getting gifted with an Era joint is that he’s pping up his pen game. Since his first track with Rae r, I sense a stronger level of intensity. Era’s at his best a high level. Era seems to bring that Cuban Linx style out n this cut Rae comes as smooth as ever. It Era’s third had me sold. He makes it honorable to be from Toronto se because he mentions things we can relate to in detail.

jadakiss - “grind” lyrics - 29/35

b

Back in September, this lyrically set the tone for the demeanor of rap we can expect from Kiss when Top 5 Dead Or Alive drops. It was also refreshing because we hadn’t heard anything as complete in the form of a single from Kiss in a few. This is the anthem for the recession (which is still not over). I never liked the chorus at first but I can’t lie, it grew on me. These bars are so motivational. “Rich niggas smile/ Broke niggas get they smirk on” had me on the floor.

saukrates - mega man lyrics - 13/35

I wasn’t sure if I should rate this within our hip-hop section but at the end of the day Big Soxx is a hip-hop artist. Now my problem isn’t even with the subject matter of this song. It’s the way the message is conveyed. This is some of Soxx worst work ever. And I really wish that he would stop using auto tune. All this song is missing is LMFAO. This is not of Gilla House standards and if Saukrates wants to keep the few “real” hip-hop fans he has he needs to be careful.

ction - 26/35

production - 27/35

production - 15/35

ation - 18/30

penetration - 19/30

penetration - 10/30

0

75/100

38/100

eard much from Snaz in the past but this beat is a definite It starts off humble but that melody kills you from the start ach verse. I love how the chorus brakes. It makes you what or who is next. I can’t really say that it has an old to it but it definitely doesn’t sound like what the cookie manufacturing these days. This beat really suits Era’s e doesn’t allow the beat to own him. He owns the beat.

hearing this song here and there but not like I should ke it deserves to be heard. As far as me playing it, emoved it from my iPod since I’ve put it on. I can lisover and over because the concept is simple so I’ll or a while. Hopefully the fans react the same way.

Now I understand why all of these top of the line artists are working with all of these local unknown producers. Humble Monstas give you a hard, grime under the fingernails type of feel. This beat is just hard all over. But it had dimensions to it that can be appreciated musically and sonically. The chorus is my favorite part of the beat. That’s when all the instruments come together and create the emotion of the song. Incredible shit!

It’s not like it’s not a tough single. It’s just that Kiss is on so much other projects as far as features that this one didn’t really get a chance to bubble like it could have if it had a video and some push. I on the other hand work out to this shit every single day. Sometimes on repeat for the whole workout.

f

Saukrates made this one all by himself. Now he has been known to make a few bangers that you will be bumping for years. Not so much this go around. It’s not one of his best concoctions. He really didn’t do that Bizarre Love Triangle sample any justice.

An injustice to New Order and The Breakfast Club. To be brutally honest, this beat gets real annoying after about 1:20. You’ll anticipate its audio completion. I guarantee you that much.

Along with not hearing anybody talking about this song, it seems those that did are trying to forget about it. I put this shit on my iPod like an idiot and couldn’t even wait to re-sync it to delete it. This shit gets real annoying after a while. Wouldn’t be shocked if I heard it in a teen movie next summer though.

25

Freestyles lyrics - 39/50

B

“24 years old do I look like a freshman?” Actually you don’t. He sounds like he’s conditioned to filter out the bullshit in the industry with his powerful flow. Lyrically he reminds me of J Cole in a sense which is why the line “I swear if my generosity bring me a fucken dynasty/ That will be the day I throw up the rock cuz Jay signed me” Had me laughing. If I was Hov I’d give this kid a look at the least. What I love about this kid lyrically on this freestyle is that from start to finish he is as intense as it gets. You would swear that this was the first time he blessed a mic and a gun was pointed at his head.

Hustle is admirable but heart isn’t something you can acquire. It’s something your born with. The beautiful thing is Forte knows how to translate that into his lyrics. “Fire in the hole got the water man stressing” Now that shit is just funny. He has a side of humor to him that I really like. “Yea I respect the blogs/ Just not the niggas paying them off.” I respect cats that talk about what’s REALLY going on in the industry. Lyrically Forte is deadly.

Gilbere forte sweet freestyle

79/100 best line

shock value - 40/50

I’ve known of this guy for only a few months. As I started to get acclimated to his music and style I fell in love with his hunger. But I think initially I slept on how talented this kid really is. I’d like to know how long he’s been raping because from what I’m hearing on this tune he’s relatively seasoned for a 24 year old. I think anybody who hasn’t listened to Forte before may become a fan after hearing this freestyle. It’s almost like a slap in the face for new fans. I can see him picking up a lot of “real” rap fans with this one. As far as the industry goes I can also see him gaining the respect of his peers in the game with this freestyle for the simple fact that it’s a hard act to follow. No he didn’t come as hard as Com did but he didn’t embarrass himself. Nor did he come short. He arguably has the best freestyle on this beat that I’ve heard thus far. I think a lot more emcees will want to work with him after understanding his lyrically skill. And a lot of emcees will not want to work with him because of the fear that they may be outshined by this Fly-City spitter. In my opinion this freestyle is a wakeup call to the new rhyme sayers. It’s Forte (Strong).

I think the opening line is what got my ears perked up. It had me thinking this kid is vex regarding how he is perceived. ”I pledge allegiance to the moments that I’ve forgiven/ Like blowing a quarter mil if the devil can make a million.” There is something that is very Flint about those bars. You might need to have grown up or know a person from Flint to feel that. Or even have grown up in similar circumstances. Its self explanatory yet needs explaining. It’s also open to interpretation. Who is the devil? The industry? His environment? Its subtle but deep. This kid is sharp.

briann lyrics -

Yo, her lyric Her lyrical s Brianna rap wich cliché lines are be you’re a bo

flow - 3

Every singl ing grace. flow better this instrum a little repe Minus her

58.8/1

I DON’T KNOW IF YOU HEARD THE NEWS BUT GANGiS KHAN HAS SIGNED TO RAEKWONS ICE H20 CANADIAN IMPRINT JOINING FELLOW

26

d

na - rack city freestyle 21.9/50

cs-to-flow ratio is like the ass to waist ratio on Bria Myles. skill set matching that of Bria’s waist line. Small and slim. ps about ABSOLUTLY NOTHING! All she does is sandon top of cliché. There is no substance at all. Her punch elow average at best. Nobody wants to hear about how oss bitch every other bar. These are elementary raps.

a

emilo rojas - corner stone freestyle

devon tracy - we’ll be fine freestyle

lyrics - 39.9/50

lyrics -29.9/50

One word to describe this kid. UNDERATED! When he said “Growing up I seen my daddy take sips and trade it all for liquor/ So now I’m drunk at the bar that’s a father figure” it made me realize that this guy has punch lines for days. What I like about this freestyle is he doesn’t get too serious with the lyrics but when needed he does remind you of his essence. Now I see why Pharrell is intrested in dude.

I kinda like this kid. His lyrics aren’t out of this world but they are adequate for this beat and this freestyle. Some of his punch lines are a little weak but others are pretty good so it makes for good balance. “Ice cubes disappearing in that hot sand/ Bikini bottom red bones call em Roxanne’s.” Not feeling that. “Critics say I’m too literal when I speak/ At least mention me on Twitter subliminals for the weak.” Feeling that!

36.9/50

flow - 45/50

flow - 35/50

100

84.9/100

64.9/100

le time I hear this girl on a record, her flow is her savIts one thing you can’t take away from her. She can than the average rapper. And she does bounce around mental fairly nicely. Sometimes her flow can become etitive but none the less it is on point for the most part. shameless display of the “Super Duper Flow.” LMAO!

c

This guy has arguably one of the best flows in his weight class.

Yeah, he dismantles the Ebonics beat but what he does at the end of the Pusha T beat just goes to show you how seasoned and controlled his flow is. He does the double time flow better than a lot of southern rappers. Only a flow like this could keep an avid listener tuned in for three plus minutes. He rapes this freestyle with his flow.

It’s not that his flow is boring. I think it’s his monotone voice on this freestyle that makes you pay more attention to his flow. After about a minute this flow becomes redundant to the point where you can almost predict exactly how he’s gonna flow for the rest of the song. Nothing special about it. It gets the job done but he could have put forth a bit more effort while bouncing around on this rhythm.

FELLOW TORONTONIAN JD ERA. I GUESS THE CHEF WASN’T JOKING WHEN HE SAID HE WANTED TO MAKE A DENT IN TORONTO HIP HOP.

Mixtapes/EP’s lyrics - 18.9/25

B

When it comes to the content on this EP, one thing I can say is there is no shortage of consciousness. Don’t get it twisted though. They do mix this disc up with a lot of that shoot em up bang bang original Mobb shit.

It’s almost like a mix of Hell On Earth and Murda Muzik after you take in all five cuts. Like on other projects where it’s easy to tell who is spitting the hardest out of the two, Hav and P are neck and neck lyrically. And that adds for more intensity and consistency front to back.

production - 17/25

If this is going to be the calibur of production on the next Mobb Deep LP I’m mildy concerned. Now, Waterboarding was an example of Al stepping his beat game up. Nothing grabbing here. But besides that beat Black Cocaine & Conqur, the production was rather mediocre. Maybe I went in with too much expectations. But when Alchemist and Hav are responsible for the majority of the beats (besides Beat Butcha and Young Free) is that wrong of me? For a 6 track EP I needed more heat than this.

mobb deep black cocaine sony red

72.8/100

favorite track - conquer

Not for the lyrics but more so for the total package created behind this triumphant beat. I wasn’t impressed with the first two songs but this lifted the whole vibe of the disc and got me interested. I wish it was the first song. I like how they flow simple and ride the beat well on this one.

originality - 17.9/25

The track Waterboarding speaks for itself. That concept alone is in a lane of its own by today’s standards. The Mobb is metaphorically talking about stuff that nobody is willing to touch in this corporate government era we live in. Not to mention the sound on that beat. The sound in general on this album is different. Different from what else is out there. But not so much from a Mobb Deep perspective. It seems like they went back to the Hell On Earth-Murda Muzik formula. Grimy beats layered with thought provoking content with a splash of arrogance.

artwork - 19/25

That is to date one of the cleanest yet strongest logos in hop-hop. I hope they never change it. I would pick this up and look at it in the record store if I didn’t even know who Mobb Deep was. I’m glad they kept it black and white. It makes the whole image ten times stronger. I could get into what “I” believe the “Black” in the title means but I think it should be open to interpretation. Here’s a little brain twister for you conspiracy theorists.. Is that just un snorted coke at the bottom or is it the all seeing eye? Kinda looks like it huh?

favorite beat - waterbording

This beat reminds me of Jeru’s Come Clean produced by DJ Premier. One of Alchemist’s idols. The way he used the sound of the dripping water sets the tone for this track. I love the bass line too. Not to heavy but very melodic when it does come in. This is a really creative beat by Alchemist.

danny lyrics -

I love DB! much conte this EP. His 30 and he ra peal. He sa are scared

produc

Yet another chest hard. island where put my finge thing else ou up some he

origina

Let’s be ser back with th flows, his b cookie cutte

artwor

It’s interestin ical. I like th what is the m

78.1/10

B

y brown & black milk - blk & brwn 19.1/25

He’s SO raw! Everything he raps is real. There is so ent in his raps. And his lyrical confidence is blinding on s word play will go over the average rappers head. He is aps like it. Seasoned! He has that “a rapper’s rapper” apays what the people want to hear and what other rappers to say. This EP has a very high level of lyrical intensity.

50 cent - the big 10 lyrics - 17.5/25

B

I wasn’t impressed. Not because this mixtape wasn’t good lyrically because it was. But I think 50 has a few more gears he can kick the old lyrical whip into. He needs new punch lines. They were kinda dry.

Well I lied I was impressed, but with his latest signee Kidd Kidd. It only took two tracks for me to hear that lyrically this kid is not to be slept on. But as an overall project this was not a bad compilation of bars.

ludacris - 1.21 gigawatts (back to the first time) lyrics - 19/25

Is Luda signed? Because he’s spitting like he doesn’t have a deal.

He sounds SO hungry. His metaphors are on point. And although he does sneak a few jewels here and there this is straight raw front to back. Braggadocios, arrogant raps with enough punch lines to the mind for the average listener to end up like Ali. I love how the rhymes are time sensitive and relevant enough for the young bucks.

ction - 20/25

production - 20/25

production - 23/25

ality - 22/25

originality - 12.9/25

originality - 16/25

artwork - 19.9/25

artwork - 17/25

70.3/100

75/100

slept on producer. The drum lines Black Milk used hit your Zap makes you feel like you’re on some kinda deserted e coconuts are kicks and tree branches are snares. I can’t er on his style but what I can say is it sounds nothing like anyut. He must be drinking that J Dilla juice because he cooked eat. I love when the end of a song breaks into another beat.

rious. Danny Brown went away for a little bit and came he Hybrid. And he doesn’t sound like ANYBODY! His bars and even his voice is fresh and much needed in this er era we live in. This should have been a full length LP.

rk - 17/25

ng but I don’t fully understand it so I don’t wanna be too crithe transparent effect with the text and the baby faces. But meaning of the lady with the light beams out of her eyes?

00

50 is one of the smartest when it comes to beat selection. He gets hot producers and no name producers and gets the most out of them. Every beat he rides with ease for the simple fact that they all sound tailor made for his style. I don’t know what Jahlil Beats was smoking before he made Put Your Hands Up but that’s one of his most creative creations. And Illmind is REALLY being slept on.

For the most part this is typical 50. No real concepts on this disc.

But songs like Stop Crying and You Took My Heart do offer something mildly thought provoking. Sonically this does however sound fresh and new. Not to mention 50 tries MANY different flows on TBT. It commemorates the release of GRODT. Gritty simplicity. The effects are reminiscent to his rookie LP. Nice colours with the font too. And it’s actually an animated image with the glass breaking.

B

I don’t want Luda’s lyrical domination to go unnoticed but the production did over shadow it. And very few know how to start and album like Luda does. So when Tone Mason laced him with that banger for the intro, you knew there would be no shortage of hot beats. Drugs came through with a hype rhythm on Muthafucka Can U Buy That. This was top to bottom high octane.

Other than the sound of this mixtape sonically, this isn’t anything extremely creative from Cris. But he does try out a few new flows that work for him in every aspect. But the content on this mixtape is exactly what you would expect to hear from Ludacris.

I do like it. But I think I would have appreciated this cover a bit more had Wale and 9th Wonder not used that same concept for their mixtape. But it fits the concept of the mixtape to the tee.

27

Albums lyrics - 19.1/20

It’s rare to see an emcee get better lyrically at this stage of their career. But Com is at the top of his game. One minute he comes aggressive, the other he comes conscious and then he caps it off with that feel good shit on songs like Celebrate. “Some say that they be missing creativity/ But when it comes to hip-hop it begins and ends with me.” That’s some real and truthful shit right there. I might have to go into the archive but bar for bar I think this is Common’s best album to date. He doesn’t take a day off.

production - 19/20

Maybe this album will be the wake up call for people sleeping on NO I.D. This guy is beyond talented. He is a musical genius. The vibe that he captures on Ghetto Dreams is so gritty and hard hitting. Then when you hear beats like Sweet and Cloth, you get a good idea of exactly how nasty NO I.D. is. He created a list of rhythms on this album that collectively sound like nothing that is out right now. These are his A-list beats. There is a certain feeling I get when I listen to Lovin’ I Lost that brought me back to the good old days of rap.

COMMON

The dreamer/the believer think common

85/100 favorite track - Windows

Windows is so deep. In my opinion too short due to its epicness. I love the different visual picture he paints which describe the title of the song and brings the whole cut together. The flow is sporadic yet controlled and the beat is smooth yet thumping. It’s really the perfect storm.

A

originality - 11/15

These concepts are very much original. The sound is also something different to hip-hop’s credit. You can tip your hat to NO I.D. for that one. Is this different from something Common would put out? Yes actually. And is a complete 360 from UMC. You hear his experiment with a few different flows on this record. Some fast and some slow rather than Com just doing what people expect him to do. In my opinion Raw came off as something experimental. But it worked. Collectively, this is a very fresh LP to the ears of avid rap fans.

cohesion - 13/15

When you work with one producer on an entire LP it makes for a very cohesive project. That’s exactly what this was. Every beat complimented the one prior and the one following.

The same can be said for the songs in their entirety. Anybody who has big dreams and aspirations in life needs to pick this album up. This is the best motivational music I’ve heard in years. Dare I say that this is Common’s most well put together album to date? He follows the concept of the album by starting with The Dreamer and ending with the Believer.

favorite beat - ghetto dreams

This was a hard one to choose but I’d go with Ghetto Dreams.

It just hits too hard for me not to love it. The breakdown during the chorus is where the deal was sealed for me. The way he flipped that sample Let’s Make It Last by The Parliaments was so milky. Everything about this beat is perfect.

impact

I think Co lease of U Be and O his door s dustry so

spins -

This is the ten. Ever hip-hop bl Ghetto Dr on my ste

artwo

I don’t kn don’t fully it look like planation. no I’m no

favorit

For those wanna tes disco/ (Yo his head w may think

t - 7.9/10

ommon may have lost a few core fans with the reUniversal Mind Control. This album will bring those One Day It Will All Makes Sense fans right back to step. Com is already well respected within the inI don’t see this album affecting other rappers much.

- 8/10

drake - take care

B

e most promo and publicity Common has ever gotry day he has either a webisode or video on the top log sites. Sweet has been getting a lot of views and reams is responsible for breaking the rewind button ereo. All this before the album officially dropped.

lyrics - 15/20

ork - 7/10

40 is nasty. He definitely upgraded his sound on this album. Let’s not forget about T-Minus. They pulled out all the stops. This is not your typical hip hop sound. But it’s a solid list of rhythms.

now what to make of this cover. Its dope. But I y understand it. It has that abstract feel that makes e some sort of dream. This needs a detailed ex. I wonder what that triangle represents. And ot implying any kind of Illuminati type shit either.

te bars

e who think Common is soft take this in. “You don’t st this yo, you never know who got a Tek up in the ou Hollywood) Naw nigga I’m Chicago, So I cracked with a mutha fucken bottle.” As conscious as you k he is, remember he beefed with Cube in the 90’s.

You can’t say that Drake doesn’t have bars. But he doesn’t seem to have much to talk about other than money, cars, hoes and liquor.

When he tries to rap “hard” and stuff it sounds like he’s reaching.

j cole - cole world: the sideline story lyrics - 16/20

The thing I love about Cole on this album is he has that rewind factor. A lot of his bars will go over people heads on this LP. Lots of intensity and furthermore, lots of jewels. A lot of substance on this LP.

production - 17/20

production - 16.5/20

originality - 8.9/15

originality - 9/15

cohesion - 8/15

cohesion - 11/15

impact - 8/10

impact - 8/10

It sounds original sonically. But other than Marvin’s Room there isn’t anything ground breaking. Did he really remake Back That Ass Up? Considering the subject matter stays pretty much the same, it’s a very smooth album. But there isn’t really a definitive theme here.

It’s almost as if he picked up where he left off with TML. But if you read the blogs this guy is losing his SFG & TML fan base.

spins - 9/10

You ever be somewhere, heard a song and said to yourself “didn’t I just hear this song.” Headlines is everywhere.

Rise and shine is straight venom! So is Lights Please and Lost Ones. J Cole is an under rated producer and he proves it here in the form of an LP. Lots of variety. Not a lot of sampling.

Lost Ones really stuck with me. I love the subject matter on this album. But the sound isn’t really that original on this disc.

This LP’s theme is followed to the tee from A to Z. He really took the name of this album seriously. He’s very passionate about his story.

Finally we have the album we’ve all been waiting for. And now that we have it Cole is one step closer to being a solidified rap star.

spins - 7/10

Jay-Z is the machine behind this. So the crazy spins and views he’s getting make sense. Half of the album is still on my iPod.

artwork - 5/10

artwork - 7.5/10

70.9/100

75/100

Whoever did his old artwork needs to be re employed. The logo is subpar. It looks like it’s not finished. Nice play on the gold though.

B

I love how he’s kept the whole sports theme going from his entry to the game. It’s a clean cover. Are those devil horns on his logo?

28

Albums

lyrics - 18/20

When it comes to bars I need to hear the cream of the crop stock in order to garner some heavy spins. There is nothing more I like then over using my rewind button. There are several verses on this album that had me rewinding over and over again. Phonte is a wizard with wordplay and exhibits it all over this LP. I don’t like to credit him for being a punch line rapper.

These are far past punch lines. They’re life lessons. The lyrical intensity never dies down on this record. Life Of Kings is what blew me away though. He owns that tune lyrically.

production - 17.5/20

9th did a good chunk of the album. And to be perfectly honest with you, the beats he did ended up being my favorite tracks. It’s that Little Brother chemistry that’s so undeniable that makes you tune in that much harder when taking in dosages. But I don’t want to sell Khrysis and Swiff D short because what they provided really made this album well rounded sonically. The beat selection process must have been fairly rigorous for this project because the end result was something everyone could appreciate.

Phonte

Charity starts at home foreign exchange music

75.4/100 favorite track - not Here anymore

I wish I could tell you how many times I rewound this song.

Elzhi has showed me that when it comes to raw bars he is the last man you wanna fuck with. Phonte comes heavy on this track don’t get me wrong. I love his two verses. But this is another testament that some ill rappers come from Detroit.

B

originality - 9.9/15

Nothing about this album is typical or cliché. This is some authentic, feel good music. What makes it so relatable and unique is Tiggalo is able to pick away at subject matter that people can connect with. He is truly the people’s champ. But aside from that he really has found himself as a rhyme sayer in the sense that his delivery, sound and subject matter is in a class of its own. It’s not that other rappers don’t rap about what he does. It’s more that they can’t do it the way Phonte does. This is a real positive vibe album.

cohesion - 10/15

So when Tiggalo says Charity Starts At Home what does he really mean? Let’s break it down; Charity is something that is given to a person. So could he be alluding to your home plate supporting and riding for you in order for your success to flourish? It’s possible. But as far as subject matter goes, It’s really scary (even more so for artists) to listen to this album because at the end of the day, bar for bar, song for song, concept for concept, thought for thought, this might be the cohesive release in 2011.

favorite beat - we go off

I’m not sure who 10 is but what I can say is this is the hypest, energy filled beat on the whole record. Those voices used in the background give for a hypnotizing feel throughout this song. Not to mention how hard the drum breakdown hits every 4 or 8 bars. I never get tired of this beat.

impact

This all de much of a Te will be p ably still w not be tha

spins -

This is the those albu on this alb And that’s move this

artwo

When you appreciate a real est about cha upbringing

favorit

It’s not like bum but B a vivrant t what side cial record

t - 6/10

epends on who you ask. This probably won’t have an impact on the fans. People that already check for pleased. But people who don’t know about him probwon’t. As far as its impact on the industry, that might at strong either. This album is getting limited promo.

B

B

childish gambino - camp

statik selektah - population control

e part that bothers me a great deal. This is one of ums you had to look for. Same goes for most records bum too. I don’t hear this on radio too much if at all. s a shame. My iPod on the other hand, I will not res album from it. I can’t say the same for other artists.

lyrics - 16/20

lyrics - 18/20

ork - 8/10

These beats sounded really complete. Lots of instruments and sounds. He took me for a ride when I heard Heartbeat.

Sonically this doesn’t really sounds like anything else out.

- 6/10

u really take the time to look at this cover you really e its creativity and originality. He really looks like tate agent in that photo. It drove the point home arity starting from your home town and your core g. And a black and white LP cover never fails.

te bars

e Tigalo doesn’t have a plethora of bars on this alBig K.R.I.T. caught my attention. “Searching for me thang/ More concerned with what books I read then e I claim.” I just wish that was spat on a commerd because It something that needs to be practiced.

I’m not even going to lie I knew nothing about dude. But lyrically I was impressed. He’s witty and aggressive without rapping about “gangsta” shit. But he does spit some real street shit.

A lot of young talent resulted in a barrage of bars. Jon Connor, Bronson, XV and Showoff’s own Reks blew my mind. Vets like Talib, Fame and Ghost brought out their best. Lyrics for days!

production - 16.5/20

production - 18.9/20

originality - 12/15

originality - 8.9/15

cohesion - 9/15

cohesion - 9/15

impact - 6.9/10

impact - 7/10

He sounds different on almost every song. He’s real honest which makes for songs and concepts others wouldn’t touch. Sometimes.

The theme isn’t really concrete or definitive. But as far as the placement of the songs, it works. It sounds like a second LP after LES. I think because he was previously an actor a lot more consumers will hear this album and more industry heads will respect him.

spins - 6/10

I had to come across this album. It’s not getting the amount of push that it should be getting. But now that I have it, I love it.

Sam Jack is a monster beat. I took that cut in 10 times before completing the album. Statik has his own style that will NOT be duplicated. This collection of beats is really soulful.

This isn’t the most original record out but this is different from Statik’s past work. Not a lot of sampling. I like this selection of beats.

I think if this album had another title the concept would have been lost. This is truly hip hop population control with words and beats.

This is going to have a serious impact on the industry. The Showoff team will reap the benefits most. Many artists will be broken off PC.

spins - 6.9/10

On the net Statik is always putting out a new video for this album. But that’s where it stops. Sam Jack had 67 plays on my iPod in 4 days.

artwork - 7/10

artwork - 8/10

73.4/100

76.7/100

I wouldn’t go camping in those woods. It kinda reminds me of the Blair Witch Project. But it explains the album title perfectly.

The title written in that pulse form is really creative and descriptive. I love the old equipment and all the Duck Down buttons.

29

Albums

c

mac miller - blue slide park

pac div - the div

lyrics - 10/20

lyrics - 15.9/20

I’m not a Mac fan. But I decided to give him a chance. Lyrically this kid is real basic and on this album often gets saved by his flow. Cookie cutter bars from front to back. Personally I think he’s overrated.

B

The thing I love most about Div is no one member is better than the other. This is an even lyrical distribution between the three. A lot of deep and heartfelt bars on this album.

cormega - raw forever lyrics - 16/20

I think Mega’s flow takes away from how real his bars are. T a few old tracks on this album but the current ones show is truly a seasoned emcee. This album is all about real lif

production - 16.5/20

production - 14.7/20

production - 13/20

originality - 6/15

originality - 8.9/15

originality - 8.9/15

cohesion - 9/15

cohesion - 9/15

cohesion - 11/15

impact - 9/10

impact - 6.5/10

impact - 5/10

That’s what made me listen to this album twice. I.D. Labs is really a fresh sound. His style compliments Mac’s style. His beats have and old school/new school feel to them. Production saved this project.

Other than the production side, this is one of the least original albums I’ve heard in a while. Not to sound harsh but he’s MAD cliché.

It seems like this is what it’s like in the day of Mac Miller. Very much Blue Slide Park-ish. You could place any song anywhere here.

Let’s be serious. This LP is making major moves on an indie budget.

Arguably the hottest new LP out. This disc is pleasing following.

spins - 7/10

When records and videos get this much play you wonder who is really pulling the strings. But I don’t think I’ll listen to this again.

I enjoyed the production on this album. It was above average. Nothing too spectacular. But what Micky Park did on Thank You was amazing. I love how he flips that Golden Girls sample.

To really appreciate this album you gotta check for the lyrics. Although a lot of their raps are typical the way they deliver them isn’t.

I don’t really see a theme here. I just see a solid record that’s all about Pac Div and what they represent. Great song placement.

When you don’t have the big machine behind you it’s hard to turn heads. Never the less their fan base is getting stronger now.

spins - 6.9/10

Like I mentioned above, no strong push for this album is present. And I do like a few songs but not the majority. Maybe half.

It’s hard to say. There were high points and low points. the time you get to track 22 everything even outs. I p ally liked the old school type beats a lot better on this

When you consider that this is a double CD with 22 cuts, bein nal isn’t an easy task. But his storytelling is innovative an

The theme is very straight forward. But it’s the plac of the songs that grabs you. It’s a fluid project front to

Did you even know that Mega dropped and album? I w on to this album. People don’t really check for Mega no m

spins - 6/10

I find myself playing this in the home more than on my On the other hand, I find radio doesn’t play this album

artwork - 8/10

artwork - 9.5/10

artwork - 6.9/10

66.5/100

71.4/100

66.8/100

I like the blue slide. But what’s the meaning behind the triangles and trees? Conspiracy theorists relax. It’s not that serious. I don’t think.

Who drew this? It’s amazing. And it does set the tone for this album and its title. It’s clean but yet very detailed. Sick!

c

A simple cover. It gives you a raw feeling with the live ba there behind him. I like the blue hue on Mega in the c

They’re w Mega fe shit.

So by personalbum.

ng origind raw.

cement o back.

was put more. :(

y iPod. at all.

and out corner.

B

B

smif n wessun & pete rock - monumental

styles p - master of ceremonies

lyrics - 16/20

lyrics - 17.5/20

Tek stepped his game back up. Steele has always been on point. And when Pete Rock chimes in the tunes are complimented greatly. They seemed real hungry on this album. I loved it.

production - 17/20

Pete Rock is arguably the best in the production game. On this album he doesn’t prove my argument but what he does is create a sound that is fresh, fluid and hard hitting. Sick usage of samples.

You know what you’re gonna get with SP. After his last release he hits the ground running not having lost a step or an ounce of intensity. And the featuring emcees represented well.

I can’t figure out what producer was my favorite here. I liked that this wasn’t your typical SP sound. The producers (especially Phoenix) took him out of his regular element and forced him to adapt.

originality - 8.9/15

cohesion - 10/15

cohesion - 8.5/15

impact - 7/10

impact - 6.5/10

The production is what makes every single song follow the one previously. But I don’t like the vibe this LP ends on. It seemed unfinished.

I think this combo will give S&W the attention they don’t already receive. This will fuel many more collaborative LP’s for sure.

spins - 6.9/10

I love what Duck Down is doing with this LP. I see this album all over the net. They’re picking all the right videos to make.

artwork - 9/10

Are those actual statues? I wanna see them in person. SO creative!

Monuments for a monumental LP. The used a very strong font too.

76.9/100

OTHER Albums

c

young jeezy tm:103

That’s where this LP takes a slight dip. Not a lot of conceptual records. Though SP is good at what he does it can become redundant.

evidence cats and dogs

m.o.p. sparta

spins - 8/10

artwork - 6/10

72/100

68/100

B

Harsh and Its Ok both got rinse on MTV and on my iPod. This album is getting a fair amount of love. Fair being the operative word.

Seems like he changed or altered his logo. I like this one better than previous ones. Overall it’s a little too basic for me.

72/100

c

I think the originality factor affects the fluidness of this LP. It’s not just jumbled together but it’s not stunningly constructed either.

It might be a little too early to tell. If more videos aren’t released the masses might forget about this album completely.

69.9/100

B

production - 16.6/20

originality - 11/15

Songs like Roses and Fire are truly great and conceptually smart.

Then songs like Do It are a completely new sound for S&W.

30

maffew ragazino rhyme pays

73/100

wale - ambition lyrics - 14.9/20

b

Wale has grown lyrically. But on this album I feel like he is compromising his talent.

He shouldn’t be getting worse but his consistency lyrically on this album is absent.

yelawolf- radioactive lyrics - 14/20

He reminds me of Em on this album at times. But he is worth the listen. He’s not a lyrical juggernaut but he has bars. And it seems like he has a story to tell making for a number of substance filled cuts.

production - 16.5/20

production - 15.9/20

originality - 8/15

originality - 13/15

cohesion - 9/15

cohesion - 9/15

impact - 8/10

impact - 6.5/10

MMG wasted no time in finding Wale some intense beats. I liked beats like Legendary and Ambition. T-Minus and Mark Henry came through with some fire. Not the typical Wale sound here.

He sounds SO ambitious. But what’s his motivation? Seems to run parallels with typical emcees motivation. Material shit and pussy.

It starts off fairly fluid but after Focused this album sonically seemed all over the place. But the theme is followed.

Wale is in another tax bracket now and that translates through his music. But will this have more impact on fans than the industry?

spins - 8/10

Wale is killing the internet. What blog site is his music not on?

Songs like Lotus Flower Bomb are still getting mad spins and views.

I’m not too familiar with Will Power but he’ll be getting some calls after this reaches the masses. A lot of the production doesn’t even sound like rap beats. And it works perfectly for Yela.

best album The Dreamer, The Believer

85/100

I never heard anything like this sonically. Radio is crazy. Some of his bars you need to take in twice because they’re a little dark.

This theme is open to interpretation. But in all aspects it’s relevant to the music. The song placement is terrific on this album.

I think it’s gonna take a little longer for this album to penetrate.

But Yelawolf’s fan base probably doubled since this time last year.

spins - 6/10

Considering he’s on Shady Records, this album should be getting more push. On the waves and on the net. But I rinse Animal.

artwork - 9/10

artwork - 8.9/10

73.4/100

73.3/100

Wale has one of if not the best logo in rap today. And that painting is epic. There isn’t much to say other than this shit is dope.

B

It’s just smart. All those elements combined becoming radioactive really lets you into his formula of creating music.

MOST COHESION The Dreamer, The Believer

13/15

31

class Avg:

best lyrics The Dreamer, The Believer

best production population control

most originality rADIOACTIVE

MOST IMPACT BLUE SLIDE PARK

most spins take care

best artwork the div

19.1/20

9/10

18.9/20

9/10

13/15

9.5/10

B

72.6/100