Sunday, July 31, 2011
Drake - "Headlines"
However, a couple of weeks ago, Drake announced the first single from his new album would be called "Headlines." The song finally leaked earlier today and has already been getting plenty of play.
Listen to "Headlines" by Drake below:
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Rookie Snow ft. Roccett and Young Soprano - "We Worldwide Hustling"
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Game and Lil Wayne to release long-awaited albums the Same Day
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Both Game and Lil Wayne had big years in 2008 and both rappers planned for even bigger 2009s. Game intended to release The R.E.D. Album and Lil Wayne Tha Carter IV. Due to their affiliates, Dr. Dre, and circumstances, Lil Wayne's prison sentence, neither album dropped, as planned.
One of the biggest hits of 2011 came right before the spring and summer season. Game and Lil Wayne created an anthem for the gang they claim in "Red Nation." Late in the spring, the controversial video was released. Having worked so closely with each other, Game is preparing to sign to Cash Money.
Despite Game's future plans, at the moment he is signed to Aftermath Entertainment. Following two years of delays, his album is finally coming on August 23, 2011. Fans of Lil Wayne have been waiting equally as long for Tha Carter IV. His release date is finally coming on the same day. While Game is giving Wayne plenty of credit, he warned his future label-mate that his album is going to be the album of the year. Fueled by his lead single, which features Lil Wayne, and his second single, "Pot of Gold," with Chris Brown, Game is ready to take the game by storm, even if it means blowing past Lil Wayne.
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Saturday, July 30, 2011
Kendrick Lamar talks Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, and His Own Music
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
The West Coast hip hop scene is buzzing for the first time in years. Over the past few years, the West Coast has not had much going for them outside of Game and Snoop Dogg. But, 2011 has been a breakthrough year for the West.
Among the artists out West to gain national attention this year, have been Tyler, the Creator, Jay Rock, and Kendrick Lamar. The past year has been incredible for Kendrick Lamar, as he has worked with Dr. Dre, among other veterans.
Much like Dr. Dre, Kendrick Lamar grew up in Compton, so the West Coast is definitely in his blood. Growing up in the same town as Dr. Dre and following his music led Kendrick Lamar to another pioneer, Snoop Dogg.
Now a grown man, Kendrick Lamar has followed in their footsteps and is now poised to become one of the most-popular rappers in the game. With this, he now has personal relationships with Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, who have severed as mentor-like figures in his career. Kendrick Lamar praised them for all the help they have provided to him.
While he has worked with the legends, Kendrick Lamar is still highly focused on his own music. One thing he likes about current hip hop is the fact that everyone is now an individual, as opposed to trying to be like someone else. However, Kendrick Lamar is not a fan of the label politics. When speaking on his own music, he feels as if it is undefined. Read more...
Friday, July 29, 2011
Ludacris preparing "1.21 Gigawatts" mixtape
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Last year, Ludacris returned from a brief hiatus with his comeback album, Battle of the Sexes. Promising the album for years, Ludacris was in for a surprise when he began recording. It was intended for the album to be a collaboration between him and female rapper, Shawnna.
Shawnna had been one of the original artists signed to Ludacris' label, Disturbing tha Peace. The two planned to record an album together and release it to the public. In the middle of recording, Ludacris learned she left his label for T-Pain's Nappy Boy record label.
The loss of Shawnna was not what got to Ludacris, instead it was how he found out. Like the rest of the public, Ludacris discovered this loss through the internet. Having been close with his artist for years, Ludacris decided not to be spiteful. Still having to deliver Battle of the Sexes, Ludacris decided to release it as a solo album.
Before putting the album together, Ludacris had considered retiring from rap. But, the album helped him fall back in love with the game. Now, Ludacris is giving the streets music they want. On the mixtape scene, he will provide them with 1.21 Gigawatts. Ludacris hopes this will hold fans over until he releases his long-awaited album, Ludaversal. Read more...
Pusha T breaks silence on Consequence
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Long before Pusha T signed with G.O.O.D. Music, one of the up-and-coming stars was Consequence. Hailing from New York, he was affiliated with Q-Tip, among others. His debut album, Don't Quit Your Day Job! was released to rave reviews.
However, when Consequence was ready to prepare his second album, he ran into problems. His second album was met with many delays. Postponed from 2008 to 2010, soon he found himself backburnered for other G.O.O.D. artists. Among those artists was 2010 signee, Pusha T.
Consequence has accused Pusha T of stealing his lyrics several times. Each time Cons called him out, Pusha T did his best to play the disses off. However, the latest diss was a little too much for the Virginia rapper. Consequence questioned his rhymes of cocaine dealing, among other things and it was a little too much for Pusha T.
Pusha T said he tried to stay out of the feud because of the history between Consequence and Kanye West, but he could no longer hold his silence. Initially, he thought Consequence's issues would blow over and they could all be on the same team. But, with each Cons diss more scathing than the last, Pusha T decided it was time to defend himself. Feeling disrespected by the Queens, New York rapper, Pusha T said nobody was even checking for Consequence.
While Consequence continues to diss both Pusha T and Kanye West, Pusha T said Kanye has never mentioned the beef to him and they have never talked about it. Read more...
Maino - "Machine Gun Rap"
When he released his debut album, Maino promised he would soon return with his second album. Before the end of this year, Maino intends to release his new album, Day After Tomorrow.
Recently, a new Maino track leaked, "Machine Gun Rap."
Listen to "Machine Gun Rap" by Maino below:
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Shawty Lo dubs himself the 50 Cent of Atlanta
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
The biggest news of the summer has been Shawty Lo joining forces with 50 Cent at G-Unit. Musically, 50 Cent has been struggling to release his new album. However, on the business side of things, 50 Cent has been dominant.
When 50 Cent managed to sign Shawty Lo and the entire roster of D4L Records, it was a power move. In the weeks since the signing, Shawty Lo and 50 Cent have made many appearances together.
Shawty Lo said he and 50 Cent's connection is deeper than rap and business. Their backgrounds are very similar, with the exception of one taking place in Atlanta, and the other in New York City.
Explaining his background, Shawty Lo said he and 50 Cent are cut from the same type of cloth. Shawty Lo also promised he would not become another one hit wonder under the G-Unit umbrella. Read more...
Memphis Bleek - "By Myself"
Without the help of his crew, Bleek established a new deal for Get Low Records and has other ventures going. His new song, "By Myself," is indeed properly titled.
Listen to "By Myself" by Memphis Bleek below:
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N.O.R.E. talks Pharrell's verse on "Finito"
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Having been out of the spotlight for a little while, N.O.R.E. made a major splash with "Finito." The song sports verses from Lil Wayne and Pharrell, so it was a nice gain for him.
N.O.R.E. has been working with Pharrell for nine years. Over the years, their chemistry has been undeniable. The Queens rapper likened their chemistry to that of Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre.
Pharrell called N.O.R.E. when he made the beat that became "Finito." When N.O.R.E. heard the intro, he was surprised to hear the humble Pharrell boasting about his outfit, among other things. It was then when N.O.R.E. realized the track was going to be something special. Read more...
Wu-Tang Clan searches for Interns on Craigslist
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
One legendary group is using the internet platform to full advantage. The Wu-Tang Clan is currently searching for interns. In years past, the group, along with several others, would use flyers and ads in local newspapers.
However, Wu-Tang Clan will be using a different method for their upcoming release. The group has posted several advertisements on Craigslist. Wu-Tang needs interns for their Staten Island offices. The internship requires a person to primarily work online.
In the ad, they state the applicant needs a professional demeanor, excellent communication skills, be well organized, and experience running social networking sites. Read more...
Rah Digga - "Made MC"
The latter part is true, as she released a song in May. Now, Rah Digga is back with another new release. Her latest song is called "Made MC."
Listen to "Made MC" by Rah Digga below:
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Fiend ft. Smoke DZA - "Take a Pull"
Soon, it became clear Fiend was not signed to Roc Nation. However, he has talked with Jay-Z about the possibility. Recently, Fiend released a new song he calls "Take a Pull" with Smoke DZA.
Listen to "Take a Pull" by Fiend ft. Smoke DZA below:
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Thursday, July 28, 2011
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
N.O.R.E. reflects on Nas feud
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
During the mid-1990s, N.O.R.E. and Nas were good friends and frequent collaborators. Many artists who worked with Nas also worked with Jay-Z. Their feud did not form until the late 1990s. Jay-Z established himself as a strong businessman during this period of time.
By 2001, Jay-Z was on top of the rap world, both as an artist, and in business. Along with this, Jay-Z planned to become the "king of New York." Jay-Z decided to solidify himself by dissing Nas. At the same time, he was trying to sign N.O.R.E. to Roc-A-Fella.
Nas' feud had extended from just Jay-Z to his entire crew, before the end of 2001. When he made a freestyle diss, Nas went at N.O.R.E., along with the other members of the Roc. Once the feud was over, Nas admitted he felt bad about going at N.O.R.E., because they had no prior issues with each other.
While he said he loves Nas for all he did for Queens hip hop, N.O.R.E. said he could not get over Nas' diss aimed at him. N.O.R.E. said it made no sense for Nas to diss his God's Favorite album, due to the fact that he was on the intro. Nas had to have heard the album before he dissed it because he was featured on the very first track off the album. Despite Nas apologizing for the diss, N.O.R.E. said he has had a hard time getting over his disses. Read more...
Peedi Crakk ft. Chinko da Great - "Jackin' For Beats"
The latest song from Peedi Crakk features Chinko da Great, called "Jackin' For Beats."
Listen to "Jackin' For Beats" by Peedi Crakk ft. Chinko da Great below:
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50 Cent ends "Black Magic" album, may leak Dr. Dre-assisted single
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
On the heels of the release of Before I Self Destruct, 50 Cent announced he was working on the follow-up album. During the summer of 2010, 50 Cent announced he was going to release a new album. Before the end of the summer, he named the album Black Magic.
At the time, it seemed as if 50 Cent was going to join his label at EMI Records. However, 50 Cent still had obligations to Interscope Records. Because of this, 50 is working on a final album to give Interscope. While trying to get his album, Interscope Records has given him problems.
Recently, 50 Cent announced he was not going to release another album. 50 Cent apologized to his fans, but he said his label, Interscope, has dropped the ball on his projects too many times before. While he will no longer release solo albums, 50 Cent said he will appear on records from other artists.
Despite not having an album coming, 50 Cent said he is going to release his "Psycho" single. 50 Cent said the song will be released tomorrow at 2:00 pm. Angry, 50 Cent said the single does not need any promotion, since Interscope always messes up when it comes to his projects, anyway. Read more...
Rockie Fresh - "Go Crazy"
Listen to "Go Crazy" by Rockie Fresh below:
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Pusha T talks "Fear of God" EP and Debut Album
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
When he released the Fear of God mixtape, Pusha T was met with critical acclaim. Already signed to Kanye West's G.O.O.D. Music, Pusha T released his mixtape in front of a large crowd. The quality of the mixtape was so good, many compared the release to an album.
Following the release of the mixtape, Pusha T announced he would release an EP to come before his debut album. Pusha T decided the mixtape would follow the Fear of God theme. The new EP is titled Fear of God 2: Let Us Pray.
Pusha T said the EP will feature appearances from 50 Cent, Tyler, the Creator, Diddy, Kanye West, Pharrell, and others. The new EP will be released on August 23, 2011. Pusha T's mixtape release coincides with Game's release of The R.E.D. Album.
While Pusha T has done well with his underground releases, the big goal is his debut album. Pusha T said he is recording his album in sections. Kanye West is handling most of the production work, but Pusha T has had to wait, due to the recording of Watch the Throne. For his upcoming debut album, Pusha T said the focus of his album will be lyricism.
Pusha T said the information on the album will be top secret. However, Pusha T announced a collaboration would take place between he and Kanye West. Now, with a new deal with Def Jam, Pusha T will release his debut album on Black Friday. Read more...
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Nas ft. Keyshia Cole - "More Than I Can Say"
Nas and Keyshia Cole have teamed up for a new record, which will likely be a release off the Life is Good LP. The song is titled "More Than I Can Say."
Listen to "More Than I Say" by Nas ft. Keyshia Cole below:
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Wale - "No One Be Like You (freestyle)"
The freestyle is titled "No One Be Like You."
Listen to "No One Be Like You (freestyle)" by Wale below:
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Game headed to Cash Money Records after Interscope deal is up
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
The past week has been very eventful for Game. He quickly released a new Jay-Z diss record. The Jay-Z diss was followed by plenty of commentary. Revisiting his feud with 50 Cent, Game said he inspired the "Uncle Otis" diss. Earlier today, the video for his new single, "Pot of Gold," was released.
Game has always maintained a strong relationship with the various members of Cash Money. But, in recent years, Cash Money has been the hottest record label in the game. Now, Game is making plans of teaming up with them. Last year, Game abandoned his role with Geffen Records to return to Aftermath Entertainment.
In his "Pot of Gold" single, Game said he owes Interscope two more albums. But, in the song, Game says he will retire following the two albums. This morning, Game changed those plans and said he will be signing with Cash Money Records when he is done with his contract at Interscope Records. If he does indeed sign with Cash Money Records, he will join an all-star cast. Read more...
Ace Hood "Broward Gang (freestyle)"
Listen to "Broward Gang (freestyle)" by Ace Hood below:
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DMC preparing Rap Comeback
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Last week, DMC spoke on DMX's comeback, giving the troubled rapper his endorsement. When hip hop first went commercial, DMC was there for it all. The rapper was one-third of the legendary hip hop trio, Run-DMC.
Over time, new movements emerged in hip hop and Run-DMC was overlooked. Currently, Run is a preacher and has taken on the moniker Rev Run. Jam Master Jay was brutally murdered during the fall of 2002. DMC has been working on several projects.
Now, his most important project is working on his comeback album. Despite not releasing new music in years, DMC has stayed in the middle of the hip hop mix. DMC has recruited Travis Barker and other rockers for his album.
DMC described his comeback as "King of Rock" on steroids. Read more...
Tony Yayo ft. Curren$y and P-Reala - "Money to Burn"
Recently, Tony Yayo teamed up with mixtape king, Curren$y. Yayo also recruited P-Reala for the new track. The latest from Tony Yayo is called "Money to Burn." Given the new G-Unit deals, this is a way of life for Tony Yayo.
Listen to "Money to Burn" by Tony Yayo ft. Curren$y and P-Reala - "Money to Burn" below:
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Monday, July 25, 2011
DoomStarks - "Victory Laps"
Listen to "Victory Laps" by Doomstarks below:
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Waka Flocka Flame angry over New York City arrest
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Over the weekend, several reports suggested Waka Flocka Flame had been arrested in New York City on drug possession charges. Waka Flocka Flame was arrested in Queens, two days ago. The Brick Squad rapper spent the night behind bars, but was released the next day.
Waka Flocka Flame was born in Queens and it was reported that he had marijuana in his possession. The rapper is claiming those reports are false. Out of jail, Waka Flocka Flame is speaking out about what really happened. Waka claims he spent a night in jail without a charge.
After making his apologies to the fans, Waka Flocka Flame suggested the only reason he was arrested was because he is a rapper. Still, Waka has plans of ending his rapping career in the next few months. Waka Flocka Flame went on to give the credit to God, saying no one can stop what he has in store for him. Read more...
Jay-Z and Kanye West - "That's My Bitch"
Currently facing disses from Game, Jay-Z and Kanye West are putting together more songs. "Otis" is officially yesterday's news with the leak of their new collaboration, "That's My Bitch," produced by Q-Tip.
Listen to "That's My Bitch" by Jay-Z and Kanye West below:
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Kardinal Offishall - "Ol Time Killin Part II (Anywhere)
The latest drop from Kardinal Offishall is the second part of his "Ol Time Killin," which has been subtitled "Anywhere."
Listen to "Ol Time Killin Part II (Anywhere)" by Kardinal Offishall below:
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Saturday, July 23, 2011
On the Rise: TeeJay
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Hip hop has expanded out of the United States, this has been a common fact for years. With the recent rise of Drake, it is evident other areas can produce international stars.
Hailing from Toronto, Ontario is TeeJay. At the age of eighteen, he is pushing his music. We first came in contact with TeeJay last week. After checking him out, we quickly decided to interview him.
Read the entire interview below:
What inspired you to become a rapper?
That's real hard to say actually. Its not really a case of "getting inspired". The sparks been there for a mad long time. Ages even. But I think what developed it into a flame was the fact that I just couldn't contain that shit no more. I feel like I got no choice now, I love this hip-hop shit way too much.
Explain the impact rap music has had on your life?
It's a culture, it's a lifestyle, it's pretty much the dopest form of rebellion. It really made me realize that it's okay to just say what the fuck you feel. Freedom of speech. It's the most creative example of the First Amendment. Lincoln probably invented this shit, why else y'all niggas think he freed the slaves?
Who were your favorite rappers growing up?
Growing up, I always knew how to spot the dopest shit. I'd fuck with 'Pac, Big L, Kanye, Diplomats, Em, Wu-Tang, Redman, Black Star, Lupe, just a lot of the rappers that are known as legends rights now. And I never just stuck to one side of hip-hop, I touched all corners of the genres. Oh and of course that cold-ass underground Canadian shit. Classified, Sweatshop Union, K-os, Kardi, Bishop Brigante, my city got bars yo.
How do you feel about Drake's current movement?
Drake's really dope and he's doing a lot for Canadian hip hop. I pay him a lot of respect. He got a lot of weight on his back, but he knows what he's doing. I'm proud to say I'm from the same city as him.
Is your style different from Drake's, how?
Even though we both from T-dot, my style's mad different from his cause I'd say I'm a lot more brave when it comes to going against the grain. Also, I feel like he has a style that fits him perfectly and no one's touching that shit. But yeah, he's a little more 'safe' than I am. I'm more ready to say shit a lot of people - rappers included - don't want to say. But, whatever, I'm happy to fill the void.
Do you believe your music is trend-setting?
For sure, especially since trends aren't hard to start these days. But I say fuck the trends. The only trend I want to see is people realizing that they should only respect skill and effort. Nothing else. Like, everything else is dope and cool or whatever. But, at the end of the day, all we have is skill and effort. Respect that shit and ain't nobody important gonna be worrying about trends.
After you establish yourself as an artist, will you have more artists?
Yeah, to me, this whole movement of hip hop was based on the act of collaborating. Hip hop's going nowhere if people don't realize that it's grounded on communication and interaction and shit. So, of course I want to see more dope rappers rise up. This music shit is too beautiful to not share it or pass it on to the future.
Are you currently signed to a record label?
Right now I'm working with an independent label, a little bit, but nothing's official...yet.
How do you feel about the current state of hip hop?
Right now, I'm loving hip hop. A lot of people want to call up coroners and claim death. But no, this shit ain't dying for a while. I like how there are enough lyrical new school cats who can still go punch for punch with the OGs. I respect skill and there's a lot of it in the game right now so I got love for it for sure. Read more...
Max B - "Keep Taking My Wave"
The new song is called "Keep Taking My Wave."
Listen to "Keep Taking My Wave" by Max B below:
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Consequence disses Pusha T on "The Plagurist Society," says Kanye West is Next
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
The early days of G.O.O.D. Music were headlined by releases from the likes of Common, John Legend, and Consequence. Kanye West made a name for himself as the most-unique rapper in the game. His record label was a roster full of misfits, which is what made them successful.
Kanye West became more focused on G.O.O.D. Music when his longtime label, Roc-A-Fella Records, folded. West began searching for additional talent and developing them. Among the new artists signed during this period was Big Sean. Last summer, Pusha T was also added to the roster.
The addition of Pusha T is what would push Consequence over the edge. Cons made it clear he had issues with Pusha T, despite Pusha having no issues with him. Acknowledging their past friendship, Consequence said his lyrics were stolen by Pusha T. Despite the accusations, Pusha T denied them and said he and Cons were still friends. This led to Consequence announcing his departure from G.O.O.D. Music and Kanye West denying it.
Consequence said he was going to lead a lyrical assault against G.O.O.D. Music. Yesterday, the first diss record, "The Plagurist Society" was released. In the song, he questions Pusha T's cocaine dealer lines and rapped of his background in New York City. Towards the end of the song, Consequence announced he was going after Kanye West on the next diss record. Read more...
Gucci Mane ft. Future - "Nasty"
Listen to "Nasty" by Gucci Mane ft. Future below:
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Beanie Sigel - "Hold Up (Where You Been?)"
One of the newer Beanie Sigel tracks leaked yesterday. The song is properly titled "Hold Up (Where You Been?)." Hoping to sign a new record deal, Beans hopes people will not be asking that too much longer.
Listen to "Hold Up (Where You Been?)" by Beanie Sigel below:
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Friday, July 22, 2011
Young Jeezy addresses Rick Ross feud
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Last year, Rick Ross landed a big hit with "B.M.F.," the song quickly became the summer anthem. Young Jeezy recorded over the song in what Rick Ross perceived to be a diss. Ross quickly responded and soon the two Def Jam rappers were feuding.
DJ Khaled spoke on the feud, last week. According to DJ Khaled, the feud was over. Khaled said he did not condone problems over at his Def Jam South imprint. It appears as if he may have been a little off, regarding Young Jeezy and Rick Ross.
Recently, the CTE head discussed his feud with Rick Ross. Stating he did not want any problems with Ross, Young Jeezy said they have agreed to disagree. Saying he was 100% real, Jeezy says he is not hard to find and Rick Ross can take it how he wants to. Read more...
Drake says "Headlines" is the First Single off "Take Care"
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Around this time, a year ago, Drake was the hottest rapper in the game. In the wake of his Thank Me Later release, Drake was in stereos and iPods all over the world. With collaborations with Rick Ross, and others, his run continued well into the fall.
Towards the end of last year, Drake announced he was working on his second album. The Toronto rapper announced the title of the album as Take Care. Birdman released a statement, saying the album would drop in the spring of 2011. When that release date came, Drake said the album was not prepared.
Earlier this summer, Drake said the album would be released on October 24, his birthday. Over the past few weeks, Drake has released several songs, including the internet hit, "Marvin's Room." Many felt as if "Marvin's Room" would be the first single released from Take Care. Instead, Drake has announced "Headlines" as the lead single off Take Care. Read more...
Meek Mill ft. Rick Ross - "Work"
It seems as if their "Work" collaboration will now be released in the wake of their recent success.
Listen to "Work" by Meek Mill ft. Rick Ross below:
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Busta Rhymes - "So In Love (remix)"
The new song from Busta Rhymes is called "So In Love (remix)."
Listen to "So In Love (remix)" by Busta Rhymes below:
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Young Chris ft. Meek Mill and Freeway - "Lay Low"
The trio has come together for a new song. "Lay Low" is the name of the new record. Leaked yesterday, it is now available below.
Listen to "Lay Low" by Young Chris ft. Meek Mill and Freeway below:
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50 Cent discusses Frequent Album Delays
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
There has been discussion of a new 50 Cent album ever since the release of Before I Self Destruct. Owing one more album to Interscope Records, 50 Cent has had trouble with the label. Ever since his Curtis project was mishandled by the label, 50 Cent has been speaking his mind.
Initially, 50 Cent said he was leaving Interscope Records when he completed his deal. With the deal set to expire after his next album, 50 Cent may have a change of heart. He has set up a new distribution deal for G-Unit Records with the long-forgotten EMI Records.
Making waves in the business arena, 50 Cent has been hard at work on his new album. On his latest LP, 50 Cent said he is taking the Eminem and Dr. Dre approach. Not in a hurry to meet deadlines, 50 Cent is taking his time writing and recording his new album. When he feels the album is ready to go, he is going to put it out. Read more...
Wiz Khalifa ft. Curren$y and Big Sean - "Dot Dot Dot"
The latest song from the trio is called "Dot Dot Dot." Wiz Khalifa, Curren$y, and Big Sean will have many more songs in store.
Listen to "Dot Dot Dot" by Wiz Khalifa ft. Curren$y and Big Sean below:
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Thursday, July 21, 2011
DMC gives props to DMX
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
With DMX trying to land a comeback, many now take him as a joke. Earlier in his career, DMX was one of the most-revered rappers in the game. But, when his drug addictions became popular news, he began losing the respect of many fans.
DMC, one third of the legendary Run-DMC, has spoke out in behalf of DMX. It has been years since DMC has been a star in the game. However, he has been remembered as a legend in the game. Many have forgotten, or never knew, DMC had drug addictions, too.
Recently, DMC spoke out in behalf of DMX. He said X was the only rapper who kept it real. While his run was overlooked by the runs of Jay-Z and Ja Rule, DMC talked about how DMX rapped about what he felt, regardless of what the people thought. One minute, X would be hardcore, and the next, he would be praying for his grandmother. DMC has respected that about him and said he is better than 98% of the rappers in the game. He reminded people, everyone was created equally.
DMX is currently on the comeback trail and one of his biggest supporters is DMC. Read more...
Soulja Boy - "Aurora Borealis"
Listen to "Aurora Borealis" by Soulja Boy below:
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DJ Khaled says Rick Ross' "God Forgives, I Don't" is a Classic
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Earlier this week, Rick Ross broke his silence on his upcoming fifth studio album, God Forgives, I Don't. At the beginning of the year, Rick Ross announced the new album. It was only weeks later when "Made Men" was released.
After months of promoting other movements, Rick Ross spoke about his album. During the video shoot for Ace Hood, he announced the new album. Rick Ross said he was working on the album and it was coming soon.
Now, DJ Khaled has released a statement regarding the album. Speaking on the album, Khaled said Rick Ross' new album is a classic in the making. DJ Khaled said he did not want to give away too much, but the album is crazy. Read more...
Drag-On ft. Gunplay and Mr. Limp - "Poppin"
Drag-On, with Gunplay and Mr. Limp, have come together for a new track they call "Poppin."
Listen to "Poppin" by Drag-On ft. Gunplay and Mr. Limp below:
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Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Jay-Z and Kanye West - "Otis"
Now, the second official single, "Otis," has leaked. The song samples the legendary Otis Redding. Funkmaster Flex leaked the song through his radio show earlier today.
Listen to "Otis" by Jay-Z and Kanye West below:
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On the Rise: Big Smitty
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
A member of the Coughee Brothaz, Big Smitty has been in the game for a long time. But, for the most part he has shared the spotlight. In a few months, all of this will change. Currently, Big Smitty is in New York, working on his official debut album, Private Jets and Presidential Suites. Big Smitty has been around some of the biggest names and he is determined to make himself one of the biggest names, too.
For years, Big Smitty has played the game from the background. However, now Big Smitty is ready to have his time in the spotlight. Influenced by the likes of Pimp C and others, he talked with Hip Hop Vibe about several of his projects and his own legacy in the game. Soon enough, people will know exactly who Big Smitty is.
Read the entire interview below:
The name of your album is Private Jets and Presidential Suites, where did you get the title from?
That's original, I came up with that. Over the years, many rappers have had the chance to live that life. Since day one, that is how I've been rolling. I've been on customized buses and everything. Even with the hip hop game going down, my status has been going up. This is how I live. When I go to the hotel and get on the elevator, I don't want to go to one of the floors, I want to hit the 'PS' button.
Is that the mentality you have, as you prepare your official debut album?
That's my mentality man. I want to give them the best music, no disrespect to the others saying they are the best. Right now, I am giving them my best, so I deserve the best, that's my mentality.
How many years have you been around in the game?
Twenty years that I've been around in the game. Due to a few bad decisions, I was out of the game, but this year makes it twenty years. I came up with the guys who were emerging in the 1990s. Right now, I got a big project with Rappin' 4 Tay. For those who don't know, I came up with Scarface of the Geto Boyz, we don't get old, we get better.
When was your music first released to the masses?
First released to the masses... I'd have to say my first big shot was with the Face Mob. I was on the Geto Boyz Resurrection album. I have been on several big projects, but they did not show my overall talents. I have been on too many albums to count. My first big break came in 1995 with my appearances on albums by the Face Mob and the Geto Boyz.
How long have you been rapping?
Since we first got rap from New York. When I first heard Sugar Hill, Kurtis Blow, Run DMC. Growing up with Scarface, I was always around rap. But, growing up my focus was on basketball back then. But, in the early 1990s, I began taking rap seriously and I learned I could make a living off rapping. Looking at Scarface become one of the top three rappers in the game inspired me to step my game up.
When was it when you became involved with the Coughee Brothaz?
That was 2008, when I was released from prison. I met with Devin and the rest is history. I got into the studio and I linked up with the Coughee Brothaz. Before I went to prison, we discussed the idea of creating the Coughee Brothaz. I was always associated with the Odd Squad, but we did not officially create our group, the Coughee Brothaz until then.
Explain your relationship with Pimp C.
I'm going slow with this. I was good friends with Big Mike, he was a Geto Boy, and his Something Serious album had just went gold. I had heard about Pimp and Bun, as UGK, they were signed to Big Time. Through my man, Big Mike, I met Bun B first and me and Bun became friends. Mike invited UGK over to my house and we hit it off. We had a good time and we became good friends, real recognized real. It was unbelievable how real they were, despite their legendary status, Pimp C and Bun B are very talented. Bun is my guy.
Pimp C shouted me out on his song, "I Left it Wet For You." I had just met Pimp C the day before and when he shouted you out, he fooled with you. On the song, you will hear him say 'What's up Smit,' referring to me.
Talk about his legacy in the hip hop game.
I think he died too early, that's my opinion. His legacy was already stamped on the game. Everything he ever set out to accomplish, he did. God would not have taken him if he had not reached his pinnacle. He was so influential on the young artists and kids, so he will continue to live on. Pimp C always spoke his mind, even if it hurt feelings, if it was the right thing to say. He always said what was on his heart and on his mind, that is his legacy.
I put Pimp up there with Tupac and artists of that nature. Tupac spoke on politics and fuckery and Pimp did too. He was the Southern version of Tupac and he always spoke his mind. He recorded enough music for everyone to hold on to a piece of his legacy.
How closely affiliated are you with UGK?
That's my family man, like I said. Bun, DJ Bird, they will always be my family, brothers. No matter what we went through, we will always be close. Through life, you understand what people are really about. All the dues we paid, I can't be anything besides proud of UGK, because I was right there with them. We have plenty of underground songs, many people have never heard before. I was a member of the Original Righteous Gangsters. We rolled like soldiers to get where we are at today. I am nowhere near where Bun is in the game, but we have the same drive. Bun B always shows me love, he is a dear friend to me. I have not had the chance to see DJ Bird, but Bun B is a dear friend to me.
What type of legacy do you intend to leave on the hip hop game?
I'll say this, my upbringing at home, my parents taught me about education. They told me that is the one thing that cannot be taken away from me. Music is the platform for bigger things for me in my career. I want to leave the legacy of an overcomer. Any artist, male or female, will know as long as they do not give up and they keep their mind and soul in the right place, they can achieve it. Look at me, it's a wonder I'm still alive, let alone doing shows with the Coughee Brothaz and doing my thing. It's a wonder I'm still here, let alone in the game, so that is the legacy I want to leave, never give up! I won't stop until all my people are household names. Read more...
Joell Ortiz - "Love Story"
Joell Ortiz recently released his new single, "Love Story."
Listen to "Love Story" by Joell Ortiz below:
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