Skyzoo "Boat Check In ('Otis' Freestyle)"

Jay-Z and Kanye dropped Otis. And then everyone else dropped Otis remixes, disses and freestyles. Great. But that's the Internets for you. We're back on that Lil Wayne A Milli or Drake's Best I Ever Had steez. At least 20 or more Otis versions have hit my inbox. To be frank, those all sucked. In my opinion and allegedly of course.

But there are always bright spots. Always, even though sometimes they get lost in the over-saturation.

The two joints I've liked the most are the ones I've bumped in to on the Internets. One of those versions is from Skyzoo (the other is Styles P and Jadakiss). He's about that spit dope bars life. I can dig it. And I can definitely dig what he did with "Boat Check In". In the over-saturated world of internet hits, Skyzoo delivers. Hit play and enjoy. Chea!



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TMB Giveaway: Andy Suzuki and The Method Live

This Sunday night Andy Suzuki and The Method are rocking live down at SOB's in NYC. Earlier today Mr. Suzuki himself hit me up with two free tickets to catch him live. You know what I'm doing with those tickets? Giving them joints away to one lucky person for a dope way to spend a Sunday night. So, this is how it's going down.

1. You need to live in the tri-state area. I mean, unless you're trying to take a red eye from Cali or a midnight train FROM Georgia.
2. You need to answer these two question: What university did Andy Suzuki graduate from and what's his zodiac sign?
3. You need to hit me on either twitter (@throatchopu) or facebook with the answer before 5pm tomorrow (July 30, 2011).
4. Tomorrow at 6pm I will pick one winner and contact that person. If you don't win, you should definitely cop a ticket (or tickets) to catch a great show.
5. Sunday, if you're the winner you're in there like swim wear to catch Andy Suzuki and The Method live. You might even get to give Andy a high five before the show. No promises on that though. Ha!

Guaranteed to be a dope show. And for a feel for Andy's live set, check out his "All of the Lights" cover. Good luck.



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A Tribue To The Classics: Returned & Remade Presented by The Mad Bloggers - Jeff Spec - "IJUSWANNACHILL"

Jeff Spec is back and this time, he's taking it back. Waaaaay back. Well, not that far back. Haha. The Mad Bloggers and Jeff Spec hook up once again to bring to life Spec's idea of taking some of the dope Hip-Hop tracks from years back and redoing them with his twist and his lyrics. The idea definitely has me intrigued. The series is titled "A Tribue To The Classics: Returned & Remade Presented by The Mad Bloggers".

I asked him for more details and he says, "The idea behind these joints is to cover songs that had an impact but also could have been slept on, so that the older heads know where I'm going with it, and the young'ins can maybe get inspired to go back and check out some amazing material that I think could have been way bigger."

Jeff Spec is a pretty dope MC. I've yet to hear a track from him I don't dig. So with that said, TMB's gearing up for what seems to be an ill series in some Hip-Hop music. The 1st cut is from Large Professor's "Ijuswannachill". He remade the beat and wrote his own lyrics to it. Check it out and give us your opinions.



@JeffSpec/
www.jeffspec.bandcamp.com


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What EMS Is Watching ... "Best Thing I Never Had" x Tori Kelly & Todrick Hall (original by Beyonce)

I don't really know what's going on over in the Land of Covers, but the last set of songs that I have had the privilege of seeing/listening to have been exceptional. I caught this on Tumblr and I was blown away. I think Tori and Todrick have the perfect voices that blend and compliment each other so well. It's like finding the right creamer for your coffee and that warm feeling you get when you sip it down. It's performances like these that make me happy to be a blogger.

Check out the rest of Tori Kelly's YouTube links here and Todrick Hall's YouTube links here.

Enjoy.

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Trek Life "So LA" (J Bizness Remix)

Another fresh one from Trek Life. Hit play and enjoy. Also, his new album available now on iTunes for $2.99 on that sale steez.  Get it here. Chea!

"Indeed, "So LA" is a solid contribution to the ever-expanding canon of regional rap anthems dedicated to the City of Angels. Waving its flag like it was Lakers playoff week, all it really needs is a shout-out to the best Griffith Observatory." -LA Times

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Milly Esquire "Never Give Up" (Produced By JVZZI)

"I see how ya'll block and unfollow on twitter, go figure ..."

Making use of an Adele's "Chasing Pavements", Milly Esquire lays it down on "Never Give Up". In his words, "work harder and be real." Enjoy.

Never Give Up by Milly Esquire

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Interview: Miss Special x Nicolay

A little over a week ago, myself and Myk Blauuw had the opportunity to have a phone interview with producer, Nicolay. We spoke about Phonte's upcoming solo project, if it features any Nicolay production, the upcoming Median album and working with Wiz Khalifa early on. We also spoke about the "City Lights" volumes, why The Foreign Exchange chose to do a live album, performing "Return Of The Mack" on tour, what to expect from the live show, YahZarah's new baby, having their own label and more.

(via @MiSS1SPECiAL)

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What I'm Watching: Aloe Blacc "I Need A Dollar" x "Billie Jean" (Special MADE Performance)

MOMENTS WITH ALOE BLACC, MIKI AND JAYBO: "I NEED A DOLLAR" PART 5/6 from MADE Blog on Vimeo.

I'm a sucker for live instrumentation. And what Aloe Blacc does here  just accompanied by the string section is incredible. Damn. And he's holding a glass a water (or vodka - allegedly, of course) the whole time? Dope. Hit play and enjoy. Chea!


MOMENTS WITH ALOE BLACC, MIKI AND JAYBO: "BILLIE JEAN" PART 6/6 from MADE Blog on Vimeo.

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What I'm Watching: Ciph Boogie "Never Waste Your Time" feat. Phil Geston

Ciph Boogie | Never Waste Your Time f/Phil Geston from Noisemaker Media on Vimeo.

Ciph Boogie takes you on a bit of a personal journey with the video for his new track, "Never Waste Your Time" off his Sometime In New York City EP. The Noisemaker Media directed/edited video captures Ciph's life in the projects he calls home, the busy BK streets and training to survive. Fresh joint. Enjoy.

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Haz Solo x Ohbliv "PickerUpper"

New music from the homie Haz Solo featuring production work from Ohbliv, off their upcoming collaborative without a name or release date set as of yet. So, I guess in the meantime enjoy "PickerUpper" and look out for more music from the two soon. Chea!

PICKerUPPer by HAZ.SOLO

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e.d.g.e. "Tetsuo Shima"

e.d.g.e. lays claim to the instrumental for the Pusha T and Tyler, The Creator track "Trouble On My Mind." Laying down a verse named after the anime character Tetsuo Shima, who is also seen in the artwork. Solid freeverse from the homie. Enjoy. Chea!



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What I'm Watching ... Ryan Leslie x Red Cafe "Fly Together" In-Studio

Ryan Leslie dropped this in-studio video a couple of days ago and I'm here to bring it to those who haven't checked it out yet. This right here, for the umpteenth time, shows me how talented this guy is. From the beginning where playing the keys to the synthesizer, guitar, drums. Whatever. This guy creates it from scratch like that?! Amazing. I've always been a fan of his music and videos like this one just elevates that respect. I wish I could play that many instruments that well. Check it.

Creating the instrumental & hook for Red Cafe's new single "Fly Together" featuring me & Rick Ross.

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Check It ... Rocky Rivera - Fourty Ounce Raps (Sauce Fonda Remix)

Here's the first remix, done by Sauce Fonda, we at The Mad Bloggers received for Rocky Rivera's track "40 Ounce Raps" off her "Rockapellas" album. Check it out and let us know what you think about this remix.



http://twitter.com/saucefonda
http://www.saucefonda.com

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Check It ... Infinito 2017 and Dirt E. Dutch - "A Place Called Truth (Remix)" (Audio)

New Dutchman remixed single from Infinito 2017 and Dirt E. Dutch's album titled "Withoutpermission". A Place Called Truth is definitely a destination we need to get to if we haven't yet. Infinito 2017 is giving his insight on how to do that on this track.

"Withoutpermission" available now at UGHH (bit.ly/py4pJF) and iTunes (bit.ly/nYBMz6)

Released 26 July 2011
Lyrics: Infinito 2017
Beat: Dirt E. Dutch (Dutchman

The Album:
Withoutpermission is an organic, free-spirited call to action which encourages the listener to always remain aware of one’s self and surroundings. The message in Infinito 2017’s lyrics remains consistent from track to track, essentially reminding us all that greatness comes from within, and you cannot exude that greatness until you have first found yourself. There is plenty of fabrication being displayed in today’s hip hop music and imagery, but no one creating this music can hold a candle to the artist that speaks from the heart, and dares to formulate a song from his own designs. Dirt E. Dutch’s soulful production lays the rhythmic setting, while Infinito paints the soundscape, with an array of enlightened writtens, cadence shifts, and occasional freestyles. The title suggests that you create precisely what you want to create. You say what you feel, and you make it sound the way you want it to sound. Never let someone tell you that you cannot do something a particular way. Greatness is never achieved with permission. The true artists create, Withoutpermission.

Twitter: 

@Infinito2017

@Dutchman

Facebook:

Dirt E. Dutch - http://facebook.com/dirtedutch

Infinito 2017 - http://www.facebook.com/pages/Infinito-2017/31093584335

--
Eric Bassriel
Little Ax LLC.
http://littleax.com

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Check It ... Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival (Videos Pt 1 + 2)

Finally got some videos from the Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival here for you guys. With so many amazing artists hitting the stage, as a blogger, I'd have to apologize for the quality of these videos. As a fan, I was so into the show that I missed some opportunities to get videos of a few others, but no apologies here. Haha. From L.A. to Eternia, from Random Axe to Kanye West, I was able to get some good footage for those who missed it or those who wanna relive that day. Check out the first part of videos and make sure you stay tuned to part 2 coming.





Also, if you haven't, check out the pictures from the BHF '11 right here: No Sleep 'Til Brooklyn: Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival Recap

Check out more videos by clicking here.

EVENT: Rah Bigalow's "The Wack Rapper Assasinator" Mixtape Release Party

ATV Music Group an 80's KIDD Ent Presents Rah Bigalow's Bigalow Doctrine Part 2 "The Wack Rapper Assasinator" Mixtape Release Party hosted by Hot 93.7's Own Kid Fresh.

Also Performing Bildaberg Ent, Spacebar, & The Autobotz.

Along with special guest appearances by Dartz Wit Intellect (D.W.I) and the rest of ATV (Any Time Volchaz) PrimeTime & NinoBlaq also performing Marvalyss, Big Mach an many more !!

Music being spun by DJ Eloheem and DJ Sherm Larock.

Date : Friday July 29th
Time : 8:00 pm to 2:00 am
Where : Sullys Pub 2071 Park St Hartford , CT
Admission : $10.00

For more info: Rah Bigalow's "The Wack Rapper Assasinator" Mixtape Release Party

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What I'm Watching: Stalley "Pound"

I fucks with Stalley. Peep the video for "Pound" off his Lincoln Way Nights. Fresh vid shot by Walu. Enjoy. Chea!

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Mean Doe Green "Hard Hats and Hand Grenades"

This joint is so filthy! Mean Doe Green goes in on his latest Hard Hats and Hand Grenades presented by the good folks over at DJBooth.net. A project with 15 new tracks, Mean Doe Green put it together while on tour with Raekwon from April-May. A bevy of features and solid producers, Hard Hats and Hand Grenades is dope from beginning to end. Peep one of my favorite cuts and if you dig it, head over to DJBooth.net to download it. Chea!

Gonna Need Me


Download/Preview

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Reason 4AR "Champion Sound"

A few months back I announced that I was trying to put together a beat tape featuring Milwaukee producers. Reason was one of the talented producers to submit beats. He's got heat. His production work has backed many dope emcees coming out of the MKE Hip-Hop scene, including the recent Dana Coppafeel project. Recently Reason took the 6th Annual 2011 Miltown Beatdown title, battling some of the best on the scene. Below peep the vid for Champion Sound, an interview with Reason and his Champion Sound project. Enjoy. Chea!







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Top $ Raz "Slip" (Produced by Badd Lukk)

"I'm from the Rock mothafucka we don't quit!"

I've been sitting on this track for a little while now and earlier today Far Rockaway's own Top $ Raz unleashed it on the Internets. Fuck release dates right? Just drop bombs and then turn that bomb off and then drop it again. Ha! Off the upcoming EP with producer Badd Lukk, Reign on the Parade, Top $ delivers more of that hunger through his rhyme that he's known for. Solid track. Hit play and enjoy. Chea!

"Top $ Raz and Badd Lukk have known each other for over eight years, and have been doing tracks together for seven of those years. Now at age 23, they have come together again across a Far Rock diaspora, Badd Lukk now resides in North Carolina, to bring the whole cycle full circle with a five track EP."

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Shane Eli "Who's Laughing Now?"

I dig Shane Eli's work. The rapper/producer puts out quality music. Here is his latest featured on Puma x DJBooth Uncontested project. Another solid offering.

"I only started releasing music a little over a year ago, so having a song chosen for a project like DJBooth.net and Puma's album - alongside Emilio Rojas, Freeway, Laws and some of the dopest artists around - is definitely an honor. There are a lot of people who told me to give up and stop making music; "Who's Laughing Now?""  

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L.A. TYMES: The Tour Life ... SOB's to Wesleyan

Peep the latest in L.A.'s L.A. Tymes series as she returns to her alma mater Wesleyan University. Yeah, the girl is college educated. BONG! Enjoy. Chea!

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Ant Chedda "Homie Lover Friend"

A smooth project from Ant Chedda, with some cool features and strong production. Homie Lover Friend is definitely a winner. I dig it. Enjoy. Chea!

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Blair Perkins "1+1 (Beyonce Cover)"

I typically avoid covers like the plague just because. Maybe it's the over-saturation of 'em, I don't know.  But damn this dude lays this joint out and it's hard to deny his talent. I caught this over on tumblr and felt the need to share with folks here. Enjoy. Chea!

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MeLo-X "The Weeknd Love Triangle" Feat. The Weeknd, Sade & Drake

MeLo-X is an extremely talented dude. His work is so damn smooth. I'm vibing out to his latest, "The Weeknd Love Triangle." Hit play and enjoy for yourself. Chea!

What first started out as one of MeLo's signature "GodMix's" has transformed into a love triangle with none other than the most exotic goddess Sade. Through a rhythmically driven sound scape MeLo creates a meeting point between The Weeknd's "What you Need" and Drake's "Marvins Room". This piece of art was inspired by an array of beautiful eclectic women during a late night studio session in an attic style Berlin apartment. Press play and let the music tell the rest of the story.

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Chuuwee x Jonathan Lowell "Whats The Word?"

I'd assume this is the final single from the Chuuwee x Jonathan Lowell Be Cool project, due out July 30th. Another solid track from the emcee/producer duo. In addition to the track, peep the artwork. Definitely looking forward to the finished product. In the meantime, What's The Word? Chea!

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OTiS CLaPP "Wasting Away" Feat. ScienZe (Produced by Miles)

First let me say that Miles is a beast on the boards. I haven't heard a beat I haven't liked. Salute! Now take that production and couple it with Brooklyn's ScienZe and Queens' own OTiS CLaPP and you have a solid track. Off of OTiS CLaPP's upcoming Welcome Home Ralphie Mixtape, this jawn is definitely a winner. Hit play and enjoy.



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Nello Luchi "Ugly"

Brooklyn's Nello Luchi returns with some new music from her upcoming project The Nothing Special, due out in September for free.99. "Ugly", the first single, was featured on producer Phoenix's Heart instrumental EP. It's a cool track. Hit play and enjoy. Chea!



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Calling All Producers: Rocky Rivera "Rockapellas"

Rocky Rivera's Pop Killer mixtape is one of my favorite releases this year. I dig it. It's still running in rotation and some of the tracks have been featured on Hip-Hop Breakfast and other spots on the blog. Well, today Rocky unleashed the acapellas. So, producers whatcha got? The challenge is one. Get at @BeatrockMusic or @rockyrivera if you decide to jump on the joints. Let me know how it works out for you. Good luck. Chea!

Download

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Hip-Hop Breakfast Ep 62

Hope you had a good weekend. Back to the daily struggle I suppose. As they say, another day, another dollar. Literally. But on a high note, another week, another Hip-Hop Breakfast. Ha! I led off with a little Amy Winehouse (she may have led a wild life but damn she made some dope music) and some new joints from Soul Khan, L.A. and Jay-Z x Kanye West. I hope this ep helps kick start your week. Enjoy. Chea!

01. Amy Winehouse - Love is a Losing Game (acoustic)
02. Emilio Rojas - Home
03. Erick Arc Elliott feat. Kaya - Keep U (I Like)
04. Soul Khan - Soulstice III
05. Rapsody - H.E.R. Throne
06. Hassaan Mackey & Apollo Brown - Volume
07. L.A. - I'm Alive
08. Jay-Z & Kanye West - Otis



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Interview: Miss Special x XV

Shouts to Miss Special for always getting dope interviews. The girl puts in work. She catches up with XV in San Fran with the latest interview. Enjoy.

Earlier in the week, I talked to XV before his show in San Francisco at 330 Ritch. We spoke about him creating videos for every song on "Zero Heroes", including the two videos he just shot for "Wichita" and "When We're Done". We also spoke about him being in the June 2011 XXL issue, the progress on the album "The Kid In The Green Backpack" and working with Drake's pianist Gonzalez. Then of course we talked about taking trips to "Squaria", female "Squarians" and all his green backpacks.

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Artist Spotlight: TheSeKondElement, Returns

After a brief hiatus from music, TheSeKondElement returns, refreshed and ready to go. We've been featuring her work on the site for sometime now and I’ve always dug her style. She goes deeper with that more than surface level rap. College education and full of ambition, with roots in spoken word, TheSekondElement is out to say something important. You should definitely listen. She goes international with her latest featuring London emcee, Jai and produced by UK producer, Poetree. Check out the track and get to know TheSekondElement a little more after the jump. Chea!

What I'm Watching: @JosieStingray " Flipped It On Em"

We featured Josie Stingray a few weeks back in an artist spotlight. She's definitely cool with some great music. Recently she dropped off the video for "Flipped It On Em", making use of the Nicki Minaj "Did It On Em" beat. I definitely dig this version (more). Maybe it's the lyricism. Either way, check it. Chea!

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What EMS Is Listening To ... "All My Time" x @OfficialA2C featuring Camile Velasco & Mike B.

Have you guys ever had a moment when you've heard a song that was so good that you just started laughing because you were extremely impressed? That just happened. I was just browsing on Facebook and I stumbled upon A2C, a sister and brother duo out of Honolulu, Hawaii.

It was the graphic art that originally attracted me to listen. Then I pressed 'play'... LOVE IT.

Beautiful, soul moving song. You can't help but move to this. "All My Time" is a well-crafted piece of music you can groove to getting ready for a Saturday night out. In light of this, I encourage you all to learn the lyrics, and grab your microphone hairbrushes, sing along and dance all throughout your house. Ha! Enjoy!

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Amy Winehouse "Love is a Losing Game" (Acoustic Version)

Damn, Amy Winehouse, dead at 27. 

It's odd that I was just talking about her a few days ago. I found myself listening to a gang of her music randomly and out of the blue. I wondered as I listened to her soultry voice, what if she had gone to rehab instead of saying no, making a hit song about it and winning many awards because of it. I guess we'll never know. It's almost like her career was a bird that started to fly but just didn't get enough air under those wings. In a stalemate the last few years, a lot can be said about her life and death. But I won't linger there. I won't speculate. I won't blame or point fingers. What I'll do is sit back and enjoy the music she made, and allow it to continue to speak for her like it always has. Rest in Power Amy Winehouse.

Back to black ...



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What I'm Watching: 100 Grand "Mommy Daddy"

100 Grand pours it all out with his video for "Mommy Daddy", released back in May. Directed by Shatek, this joint is intense (and I mean just that). The C.G. Productionz joint finds 100 Grand on some anti ode to his parents type shit. More like a warning in fact. This joint is wild and yet bold. And because of that boldness and creativeness, I'm posting it up. I'd say "enjoy" but you'll probably be terrified by the end. Ha!

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Soul Khan "Soulstice III"

The homie J57 dropped off a solid track from Soul Khan. "Soulstice III"  is dope. Soul Khan is definitely that dude and his music always impresses. The latest continues the trend. Hit play and enjoy the hell out of this shit. Chea!



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e.d.g.e. x shinobistalin "Work Harder" (prod. by Reeplay)

Word Harder? The homie e.d.g.e. couldn't possibly work any harder. Ha! He's definitely one of the hardest working guys I know but he keeps pushing. Joined by shinobistalin with Reeplay on the beat, e.d.g.e. delivers up another solid track. Hit play and enjoy. Chea!



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ScholarMan & Jonesy "Control The Madness"

Produced by Jonesy with a guest feature from Graysum, ScholarMan drops off another powerful joint in "Control the Madness" off of his upcoming The Surface Under EP due out August 2011. Solid cut. Hit play and enjoy. Chea!



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What EMS Is Listening To ... "Aisle 7" x @LehtMoJoe

This post is LONG overdue and I totally apologize!

I got hit up with this several months ago and this is one of my favorite curve balls I'm giving you guys this month. There's not much I can tell you about LehtMoJoe except for I think he's a dope producer. He released this latest project in April of this year and every time I hear it, all I can do is groove. This sophomore album inspires me to throw the biggest house party I can imagine, which is awesome, especially since I don't throw house parties.

To find out more about LehtMoJoe and his unique sound, check out his website at www.lehtmojoe.com.

You can also check out Aisle 7 below and download it for only $9! Enjoy, peoples!

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What EMS Is Watching ... @ULuvTashaRamos - Walk Away

Natasha Ramos is working hard! She is cranking this music out and I'm loving it. A TMB favorite, Ms. Ramos hit us with a new video that's been making it's way around the circuit in the blogosphere. What I love most about "Walk Away" is its simplicity and elegance. A beautifully done video by a talented and dedicated artist. As I've always said in my blog posts about Natasha, if you don't know her, get familiar. You'll thank me later.

Press play. Enjoy!



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Artist Spotlight: Rolynne' Anderson - Stone

This lady here. Okay, I'm going to tell you all right now, it's just amazing to hear. I might have missed going to school with her by a year or two, but Ms. Rolynne' Anderson is a gift to the world of music. I remember when I first heard her down in the computer lab of Presser Hall late one evening; I've got on headphones and I couldn't help but take them off just to listen to her sing and play around with lyrics and notes.

One thing I can say about Agnes Scott, is that they are masters at producing talented musicians. Kudos to the music department!

While Rolynne' has a myriad of other YouTube videos that you can check out here, "Stone" is her most recent composition that is beautiful, original and uniquely melodic in it's own right. She created her own instrumental, wrote her own song, and recorded it in her own home studio. True musicianship. I have no doubt that Rolynne' will be one of the ones to help us get back to what music should have never strayed from. Authenticity.

Enjoy, peoples.




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Interview: Kayo x TheComeUpShow.com

When you think Caribbean music, usually Soca, Dancehall, and Reggae come to mind. Kayo, from St. Lucia chose a different path, he discusses in our interview why Hip-Hop appeals to him as a form of expression, why he moved to Canada, and how he got signed to Classified’s Half-life record label. Kayo is definitely an artist on “The Come Up” and someone to look out for.

(via Chedo, www.thecomeupshow.com)

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Artist Spotlight: Lyric Jones prepares industry for a makeover

Man, I've been sitting on this artist spotlight for some time now. Blame it on the lack of time on my part and definitely not on the lack of talent on Lyric Jones' part. I first stumbled on her music when I asked folks to name some dope female emcees. Lyric's name came up a dozen times. So, I found myself checking out some of her music and was impressed with the emcee who now calls ATL home. I dig her style and sound. It's behind that generic Hip-Hop. Check out her latest video and get to know Lyric Jones after the jump.

L.A. "I'm Alive"

Yesterday, just after 8pm, L.A. released on DJBooth.net the latest from her upcoming The L.A. Riots. I had the privilege of writing about "I'm Alive" in it's world premier over at the Booth. This track is filthy. And by filthy I mean extremely dope. Like I said over at the Booth, there’s a hunger in the Brooklyn newcomer’s voice and she lays it all on the line in "I’m Alive." But that hunger, confidence, passion and raw emotion is all over her latest project. I'm honored enough to be one of the folks in L.A.'s circle with whom she's shared music from the new project and "I'm Alive" and "Spitting Out Blood" (the last single) are just the tip of the iceberg. Out to prove so much after her debut project The Presentation, the Cali production duo Hippie Sabotage help L.A. tell her story by creating some heat bombs for her to flow over effortlessly. Look out for more soon but in the meantime, enjoy "I'm Alive". Chea!



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What I'm Watching: Elle Maxwell "Dreams"

A lot of folks will jump on a popular current hit and follow the trend everyone else is following (see Marvin's Room). Few dare to reach back. And that's why I dig Elle Maxwell, because she remains bold. She returns with the latest in her RUSHOUR series by  attacking The Cranberries' "Dreams." Fresh. I definitely dig what she did here. Enjoy. Chea!

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What I'm Watching ... J. Craig - "BAMBU (My Crew)"

Latest from a newcomer to the site, J. Craig releases this video of a track that's off his upcoming mixtape titled "No Managers No Problem." The way the industry is nowadays, I would think that's the way to do it. But what do I know? Haha. Check it.



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What I'm Watching ... The Doppelgangaz - "Get Em"

The cloaked ones are back. Matter Ov Fact and EP release their latest off of "Lone Sharks". These guys been getting some praises by other dope MCs. Definitely check it out and make sure you get the album. Good music.



Physical Copies:
http://groggypack.bigcartel.com/product/lone-sharks

iTunes:
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/lone-sharks/id444491250

Amazon (MP3):
http://www.amazon.com/Lone-Sharks-Explicit/dp/B0057TRXDQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&a...

The fourth release off Lone Sharks available now. The Ghastly Duo appreciating nature.

Director: The Doppelgangaz
Director of Photography: The Doppelgangaz
2011 Groggy Pack Entertainment, LLC.

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Check It ... Trek Life - "Due West" (Has-Lo Remix)

Check out Has-Lo's touch on Trek Life's "Due West" single. Dope. Another one of those that you wish it wasn't this short.

We all one CA all day I bless
The children of a better life conquest
When they headed Due West

Get the album: Wouldn't Change Nothing
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/wouldnt-change-nothing/id446485610

What I'm Watching: Pusha T "Trouble On My Mind" feat. Tyler, The Creator

I've been a Pusha T fan. On his latest, "Trouble On My Mind", he returns to that Neptunes driven sound that I first discovered with his Clipse work but instead of Malice at his side, he's joined by Cali newcomer Tyler, The Creator. Truth be told, I dig much of Tyler's work too. Shocked? Don't be. Tyler is one hell of a storyteller and I like storytellers. I'm sure when many heard of the collab between the two, they saw two different artist without much in common. That's what makes this video so great, the merging of two worlds. I dig it. Enjoy. Chea!

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Download ... Apollo Brown & Hassaan Mackey - "Daily Bread Mixtape" (Mixed by House Shoes)

My blog partner Q posted a single from Apollo Brown & Hassaan Mackey's upcoming album titled "Daily Bread", which will be available on August 9th, but this 45 minute mixtape is something to get you through until then. This joint is free and dope. Do you need a 3rd reason to download it?!

The House Shoes mixtape features a variety of past tracks, collaborations, features, rare and unreleased tracks, along with new material including a sneak peak at the track "Weak Won't Do" from the upcoming Daily Bread album, and the Apollo Brown Troubled Waters Remix of The Trenches featuring Sean Born. Other mix guests include Invincible, Nick Tha 1Da, Danny Brown, Black Milk, Emilio Rojas, Diamond District, Kenn Starr, The Left, Elzhi, and more.

Pre-Order the New Album "Daily Bread" from Hassaan Mackey & Apollo Brown!!!

http://www.fatbeats.com/products/hassaan-mackey-apollo-brown-daily-bread-cd

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What I'm Watching: Koncept x Tranzformer "Day Dreaming"

Having just released some new music Tuesday, Koncept reaches back to his More Than Meets The Eye project with Tranzformer to deliver up a fresh video for their "Day Dreaming" track. The Brian Robinson directed video is simple, yet fresh. I dig it. Enjoy. Chea!

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Check It ... RoQ'y TyRaiD - "Put It On Wax" (Prod. by 21TheProducer)

This dude RoQ'y, who I got to meet finally at the BHF '11 last weekend, is a fucking beast. Every next track I hear from him, it seems like dude goes in the booth with a vengeance. This time is no different. Lyrically smashes the competition over this dope ass beat produced by 21TheProducer that has my speakers on ICU.

"Motherfuckers front like they stay in rotation / funny how they diss you at the radio station..."



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What I'm Watching ... Pharoahe Monch "Black Hand Side" feat. Styles P & Phonte

A lot of struggles being rapped about here in this new video by Pharoahe Monch with the help of Styles P and Phonte of Little Brother and Foreign Exchange on the hook. Definitely would like to see more positivity in the world similar to what they showing you in here. Check it.



Pharoahe Monch's new album W.A.R. (We Are Renegades) out now http://bit.ly/fnNzj1. Directed by Terrance Nance.

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Jinesis "I'll Be ... Beyond"

I write what I feel. That's why sometimes I take a few days to write about full projects because I want to sit back and really listen and enjoy the music. Folks often ask me to review their music. Sure, I can sit down and write from a technical standpoint about an album but I prefer to write from how I feel when I listen to the music. So often times I sit on a project for a few days as I incorporate it into my everyday life and really embrace the music.

A few days ago Jinesis released his latest, I'll Be ... Beyond. I had the project a few days before that. And I went through the same motions I often go through when I want to fully enjoy and listen to a project. I download it. I play it once. Then I play it again. Then I put it on either my iPhone or iPod and take it with me and play it again.

I can say that after a few plays, I truly feel I'll Be ... Beyond. The project is some solid production work from the NYC based producer. Just over 15 minutes long, you're left wanting another beat (or five). I found myself lost in tracks like "The Lee Story" and "My Darling Sings" and tempted to pick up the pen and write a rhyme to Shan and Lets Party. No, I don't rhyme but if I did I'd be on those beats. Ha!

What Jinesis does is continues to deliver with I'll Be ... Beyond. Hit play and enjoy a quality project. Chea!

The final installation of Jinesis's "I'll Be" series is a perfect instrumental swan song for the producers free projects.

Over the course of the last 3 years, hip-hop beatmaker and producer Jinesis has given away over 5 solid instrumental projects for free download. In that time and process he's worked with quite a few indie emcees and singers and managed to get his name across the blogosphere.

Devoting long hours in the studio, pouring time, money and effort into these individual labors of love to spread his message between kickdrum and snare, the following has been built. The dusty-fingered crate-digging, editing and chopping drums and loops, the scraping together for studio mixing and mastering sessions has all led to this moment. Humble beginnings aside, bigger goals are in sight. Looking to release his full length album this fall, Jinesis is releasing one last free project.

After the success of "Otisis" and "I'll Be" Gold Edition, Jinesis has decided to take it one step further.
Progress in succession. To Go BEYOND. In his own words, "I'll Be...Beyond".

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Koncept "Feels So Good"

The Brown Bag AllStars Koncept delivers up a smooth cut with the assistance of Tranzformer on production and Laurence Lafond-Beaulne on vocals. I'm definitely digging this joint and the Nina Simone inspiration. Solid. Enjoy. Chea!



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What I'm Watching: Vulkan the Krusader "Anti-American Graffiti Diddy"

Vulkan the Krusader - Anti-American Graffiti Diddy from Terence MF Thomas on Vimeo.


I figure that's one way to get a bunch of people to listen to your music, huh? Terence MF Thomas directs Vulkan the Krusader's "Anti-American Graffiti Diddy" off of his The Lucy Naive project. Fresh. Enjoy.

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What I'm Watching: Silent Knight "Stayin' Busy"

Last week Audible Doctor released the dope remix to this track. But lets not forget the fresh original. And Silent Knight makes sure you don't by serving up the Sylvio Sandino directed video. Dope. Enjoy. Chea!

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What I'm Watching: ScienZe "September"

It seems like ScienZe is always one project ahead. Having just released the Simply Aesthetic EP not to long ago, he drops off a video for some new music off his upcoming When Skies Fall project due out September 12. I dig the homie ScienZe's music and this video is dope. Hit play and enjoy. Chea!

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No Sleep 'Til Brooklyn: Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival Recap

I got on a bus at 1am from upstate New York Saturday morning. This particular morning I was on my way to the 7th Annual Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival. My blog partner and long time friend OC Supreme and I have made it a tradition to attend over the last few years. And having moved upstate New York, I wasn't going to change that. So, I sacrificed some comfort and a bed for the night to sit up in a seat and get as much sleep as I could between the start and end of the trip.

In my mind, there was really gonna be no sleep till (after) Brooklyn.

Apollo Brown & Hassaan Mackey "Volume"

Apollo Brown x Hassaan Mackey tho? Shiiiit. Their new project Daily Bread is available over at iTunes and available for pre-order on CD here and on vinyl here. But today, you can get their first single for free.99. And damn, this track is crazy.

Hassaan Mackey on "Volume":
“Yo man, that was the first beat Apollo played when I walked in his crib in Detroit…  this was the first song I wrote to when I got there, and we knew it was the lead joint.  It was dumb early in the morning, I had just gotten off the train from New York. Apollo had picked me up and I started writing it at Apollo's crib and finished it in the studio that night, recorded it, and it was in the pocket.  We knew that was the opener!”

Hit play. Enjoy. Then go get your Daily Bread. Chea!



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