Showing posts with label jay-z. Show all posts
Showing posts with label jay-z. Show all posts
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Is Rick Ross pushing himself Too Hard?
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Over the past five years, Rick Ross has been delivering new music to the world. Through this period of time, Ross has delivered hits on a frequent basis. All this hard work has paid off, as Rick Ross is considered one of the biggest rappers in the game.
With this title, Rick Ross is constantly in the news, which is how people were able to follow his health over the past few days. Rick Ross, who is currently on tour, suffered a seizure while boarding a plane from his native Florida to Memphis. Determined to perform, he continued his flight.
After sharing a video, which celebrated his recovery, Rick Ross suffered from another seizure. Elise Neal, of "The Hughleys" and "All of Us" fame, who also dated Rick Ross, said he was being pushed too hard. Neal pointed out Rick Ross' age, thirty-five-years-old. Rick Ross' time in the spotlight does not match how long he has truly been in the game. Rick Ross has been rapping ever since 2002, starting his career with Suave House Records. Soon, Ross left the label and joined Slip-N-Slide Records, best-known for boasting Trick Daddy and Trina.
During the early 2000s, Rick Ross had already become a legend in the streets. His music did very well on the street level. In the eyes of many, Rick Ross had already "made it." Rick Ross contributed verses on albums, which were sold around the world, by Trick Daddy and Trina. While all this was great and Rick Ross was a major local rapper, he wanted much more. In 2005, Rick Ross caught the attention of several executives in the industry, including Diddy, Jay-Z, and Irv Gotti. Each mogul wanted to bring Ross in to revive the Southern branch of each of their labels.
In the end, Rick Ross chose to sign with Def Jam and work under Jay-Z's guidance. Before he became one of hip hop's biggest moguls, Jay-Z was the biggest rapper on Def Jam. Not a year went by, between 1997 and 2003, without Jay-Z releasing a new album. Jay-Z advised Rick Ross to do this, in order to keep himself relevant. In 2006, Rick Ross released Port of Miami, through Slip-N-Slide/Def Jam, gaining the attention of the entire hip hop world. However, still Rick Ross was viewed as more of a regional rapper. At this point, it seemed as if Rick Ross had achieved his dreams, being one of Miami's top acts and having fame outside his hometown.
Still, the mission was not complete, as Rick Ross worked to become one of the biggest rappers in the nation, following his Trilla album. During this time, Rick Ross dealt with his album being pushed back in order to make room for Plies. Rick Ross faded into the background for most of 2007, appearing in music videos, primarily. But, Rick Ross soon provided an anthem the world could vibe to, "The Boss," which featured the then-popular, T-Pain. With this buzz, Rick Ross received more invites to all the top networks, gaining regular rotation status on BET, MTV, and other outlets.
Around this time, 50 Cent began taking shots at DJ Khaled, who had been serving as the official DJ for years for Rick Ross. In 2007, DJ Khaled's career took off and he helped Miami become the biggest hip hop scene in the South. For years, 50 Cent and G-Unit had dominated the hip hop scene and now Miami was taking over the game, under Khaled's guidance. 50 Cent had warned Rick Ross about hanging so closely with the movement, which also included Lil Wayne and Birdman. In 2009, Rick Ross shocked the hip hop world when he first dissed 50 Cent.
Surprisingly, Rick Ross was declared the winner against the notorious battle rapper, 50 Cent. In 2010, he took his career to the next level, officially becoming one of the biggest rappers in the game. Rick Ross boasted collaborations with Drake, Styles P, and other power-players in the rap game. While Ross was dominating the game, he still was not viewed as number one, which is what he desperately wanted. At the start of 2011, Rick Ross announced he would be taking the game over. Without a song of his own, Ross was able to do this, being featured on a number of tracks by hip hop's elite.
Perhaps Rick Ross' most impressive feat was adding the number of artists to his Maybach Music imprint without the backing of a major label. A bidding war ensued between several labels and Rick Ross landed a new deal for his label at Warner Bros. Records. After dominating the summer and continuing to push his crew, Maybach Music, Rick Ross began pushing his own new project, God Forgives, I Don't. Since his commercial debut, in 2006, Rick Ross has not taken any time off. Being on the go, consistently, for five years is not good for anyone.
While Rick Ross has achieved the fortune and the fame, he also suffered two seizures in the same day, which obviously is not healthy. Some people can go for years, and continue pushing, but for others it can be a strain. Is Rick Ross pushing himself too hard? Read more...
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Pete Rock speaks on Syl Johnson suing Jay-Z and Kanye West
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Jay-Z and Kanye West's Watch the Throne has caught the attention of everyone. The album has proven their lasting impact on the game. Several rappers have freestyled over a number of tracks off the album. However, everyone is not impressed with their collaborative effort.
Soul singer, Syl Johnson has heard "The Joy" and he is highly upset with the song. "The Joy," which is produced by Pete Rock, uses a sample from Johnson's "Different Strokes." The sample was used without his permission. Because of this, Syl Johnson is trying to shut down the album and receive the profits.
Pete Rock broke his silence about the lawsuit and the song. He seems to be just as surprised as Syl Johnson. While he produced the song, Pete Rock said the sample was not placed until after he completed the song. The Throne claimed the sample was originally to be used for My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, but in the end, they decided not to use the song.
Syl Johnson was shocked to see the song appear on Watch the Throne. Pete Rock said The Throne thought they could take the sample without paying and still get away with it. He then said Syl Johnson is still alive and well, so he is no pushover. Read more...
T.I. - "Niggas in Paris (remix)"
Listen to "Niggas in Paris (remix)" by T.I. below:
Read more...
Friday, October 14, 2011
Jay-Z and Kanye West sued over "Watch the Throne" sample
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
For a brief moment, Jay-Z and Kanye West breathed new life into hip hop, quickly becoming the focal point. During the summer, the duo released their Watch the Throne album. Their run, however, was short-lived as Lil Wayne released Tha Carter IV weeks later.
Now, Jay-Z is in the news more for Beyonce's baby bump and J. Cole than for his own work. Kanye West has faded into the background, as he continues to unleash Big Sean on the world. The Throne, however, is now back in the headlines.
Their song, "The Joy," contains a sample from soul veteran, Syl Johnson. The song uses elements of his 1967 single, "Different Strokes." Johnson filed his suit in Illinois on October 13. Lawyers for The Throne said they tried to sample the song for Kanye West's My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. The song ended up not being used on that album, so they kept it for Watch the Throne.
Syl Johnson claimed they never contacted him about sampling the song and he wants to impound all copies of Watch the Throne. Along with stopping distribution of the album, Johnson wants to receive full accounting of sales and publishing proceeds, along with punitive damages. Read more...
T.I. remixes "Niggas in Paris," says it Will Be Heard Regardless
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Focused on regaining the spot he surrendered in 2009, T.I. has been jumping on all the hot tracks. Since he has been gone, the hip hop scene in Atlanta has a few new faces. Future, the man behind "Tony Montana," is among them. His "Magic" single had been doing well.
DJ Drama pointed T.I. in Future's direction and the "Magic (remix)" came about. Another hot song out is "Niggas in Paris," as nearly every rapper has freestyled to the track. T.I. has strong relationships with both Jay-Z and Kanye West. But, since they released their Watch the Throne, they have been distant.
T.I. is a fan of "Niggas in Paris" and has plans of remixing the track. Unlike the other artists who have gotten on the beat, Tip wants to make it an official remix. T.I. said if he is turned down, however, he will still push the track. T.I. said he played the song for Kanye West, who played it for Jay-Z, but they have not gotten back to him yet. Read more...
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Drake speaks on His Part in Lil Wayne vs. Jay-Z feud and being dissed by Pusha T
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
In the days before Tha Carter IV was released, fans were floored by "It's Good." The track features Jadakiss and Drake rapping tough-guy lyrics. After their verses, Lil Wayne closes the song. His verse contains disses aimed at Jay-Z in response to his "baby money" diss aimed at Birdman on "H.A.M."
During his interview with Funkmaster Flex, Drake discussed the song, in-depth. Previously, Drake stated he had no parts in the diss on Jay-Z. But, with Flex, Drake admitted he heard the song before it leaked. However, he said all he did was rap his verse over the beat and then Lil Wayne did his verse.
Drake went on to say he is a soldier for Lil Wayne and respects his comments about him. Speaking on the "It's Good track," he said Lil Wayne did what he had to do. Still, Drake said he has nothing but love and respect for Jay-Z. Drake discussed how "H.A.M." was directed at Birdman, and credited Jay-Z as his mentor and Wayne as his brother, separating himself from the situation.
There is a potential situation between Drake and Pusha T. Recently, Pusha T mentioned Drake on his new track, "Don't Fuck with Me." Many feel Pusha T dissed Drake on the song. After listening to the song, several times, Drake said he could not find the diss. Because he has never met Pusha T, Drake said if he did diss him, it is an internal problem with Pusha and not his problem. Drake went on to say he is a fan of The Clipse and said if Pusha T was calling him out, he should make it more direct next time.
While Drake says he is up for whatever, he was not offended by the track. Read more...
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Tyler, the Creator interviews Nas for XXL, celebrating Nas' 20-year career
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
With his tenth album, Life is Good, on the way, Nas is still one of the most-prominent rappers in the game. Twenty years ago, Nas first began seriously rapping. Recently, Nas discussed all of this with XXL magazine, interviewed by Tyler, the Creator.
Tyler, the Creator is one of the brightest new stars in the rap game. His dominance has just started, as he is only twenty, himself. During his interview with Nas, Tyler had several questions for personal reasons. As a rapper, it is a great opportunity to speak with someone who has been rapping as long as you have been living.
A major Nas fan, Tyler, the Creator talked with him about a number of topics. Tyler, the Creator told Nas his favorite albums from him were 2002 God's Son and 2004's Street's Disciple. Because Nas, Eminem, Jay-Z, and Snoop Dogg all started a twenty years old and have remained in the game, Tyler says he questions if he, too, can last for well over a decade and a half. Nas told Tyler, the Creator he definitely could last that long in the game.
When Tyler, the Creator asked Nas if he was happy, Nas told him his album is titled Life is Good, but if he could change one thing, he would have his children living with him. Nas has two children, a daughter, who was one topic in his legendary feud with Jay-Z, and a son with Kelis. For a few years, Nas and Kelis were married and their son was the product of their marriage. Shortly after his birth, Nas and Kelis' marriage fell apart and she was awarded primary custody over the child.
Nas said, aside form his children not being with him, life is indeed good, though. Read more...
Lil Wayne responds to Luther Campbell, calls out DJ Khaled
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Long before Miami became the home away from home for hip hop's elite and long before Miami's rap scene was popular, Uncle Luke was holding things down. Uncle Luke paved the way for Trick Daddy, who opened the doors to the Miami hip hop scene. Of course, Trick Daddy has not been popular in years, but his affiliates are.
Uncle Luke, who now goes by his real name, Luther Campbell, has been very active in his hometown. He ran, unsuccessfully, for mayor of Miami and has become one of hip hop's biggest commentators. He has discussed Wiz Khalifa and Kanye West, among other things. His most-recent discussion involved Lil Wayne, Rick Ross, DJ Khaled, and Diddy.
Luther Campbell felt those rappers, who shoot music videos, attend basketball games, party at clubs, and sleep with women in Miami should give back. Primarily, he was talking about the rappers mentioned above. Campbell said they should be active in helping to revive the Miami economy, which is struggling like everywhere else in the United States. Recently, Lil Wayne has been more talkative than usual. Under his belt, already, is a Jay-Z diss and he recently responded to Uncle Luke.
On Twitter, Lil Wayne responded to Luther Campbell saying "This Nigga Luke trippin!!!." He also had choice words for label-mate, DJ Khaled. Wayne also said "I ain't feelin khaled right now neither." Read more...
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Monday, October 10, 2011
Michael Eric Dyson speaks on Jay-Z Georgetown University course [VIDEO]
Get More: Music News
Hugh Jackman is a Huge fan of Hip Hop
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Fresh off his latest role in the action film, Real Steel, Hugh Jackman is one of the biggest names in Hollywood, right now. However, what people do not know is Jackman is an avid music fan. There is one genre, in particular, which Hugh Jackman loves.
Recently, Hugh Jackman revealed, in an interview, he is a major fan of hip hop music. While he loves all hip hop music, he is especially fans of the likes of Jay-Z, Eminem, 50 Cent, and Dr. Dre. With the Real Steel movie complete, Hugh Jackman took time to celebrate.
Along with Real Steel director, Shawn Levy, Hugh Jackman attended a concert with Eminem as the headliner. After watching Eminem's performance, Hugh Jackman said Eminem is one of the greatest live acts he had ever seen. As a fan of real live music, Jackman was pleased with Eminem's performance.
Hugh Jackman said 50 Cent, Jay-Z, and Dr. Dre were also in attendance and they performed. He had the chance to watch them backstage. Jackman said it was one of the most-electrifying nights of his life. Having the chance to watch Dr. Dre prepare for his performance was like watching a boxer getting ready for the big fight, Jackman said.
The night was one Hugh Jackman will never forget, as he was entertained, instead of having to entertain others. Read more...
Thursday, October 6, 2011
J. Cole talks Record Sales and props from Jay-Z and Beyonce
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
J. Cole is living proof of good things coming to those who wait. In 2009, several new rappers emerged in the game, with the focus being on Drake, J. Cole, and Kid Cudi. The first of the three new artists to drop an album was Kid Cudi. Drake followed with his debut in 2010.
Several new artists came and released their debut albums, meanwhile J. Cole continued to wait. At times, this may have been frustrating for J. Cole. Now, two years later, J. Cole has released his album and is currently the most-discussed rapper in the game.
It is safe to say things worked out for the best with J. Cole, as his album debuted at number one. Not only is J. Cole popular, he has also been met with critical acclaim. J. Cole said he received a call from Jay-Z, congratulating him, an email from Beyonce, and the most text messages he had ever received in his life, all giving him props for his sales. Read more...
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Apple founder, Steve Jobs, dead at 56
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
The name, Steve Jobs, may not ring bells, but his inventions should. Steve Jobs was the visionary behind the Apple company. Through his inventions, Jobs helped revolutionize the hip hop industry, without trying. Earlier this year, Hip Hop Vibe wrote an article about Jobs.
At the time, Steve Jobs had stepped down as CEO of Apple, to focus on his cancer treatment. For some time, Jobs has battle pancreatic cancer. Jay-Z rapped about Steve Jobs on his 2006 comeback album, Kingdom Come. During this time, the original iPod was still rising in popularity.
In the five years since then, the world is preparing for the iPhone 5, the iPad 2, new Mac computers, and several new systems. This is all because of Steve Jobs. Now, when an artist releases an album, they are focused on topping iTunes, as opposed to the Billboard Hot 100. This shift has happened here in recent years.
Sadly, the mastermind behind all of this, Steve Jobs, is dead at the age of 56. In 1976, Steve Jobs founded the Apple company, with childhood friend Steve Wozniak. Wozniak spoke on Jobs' death, saying: "I'm shocked and disturbed." Steve Jobs had beaten the pancreatic cancer, back in 2004. It was following that bout, when the wave of new inventions came. In his 2011 letter of resignation, Steve Jobs wrote: "I have always said if there ever came a day when I could no longer meet my duties and expectations as Apple's CEO, I would be the first to let you know, unfortunately that day has come."
Steve Jobs has lived an incredible life, starting his company at 21 and reaching billionaire status before he turned 30. Apple had this to say about their founder: "We are deeply saddened to announce that Steve Jobs passed away today," read a statement by Apple's board of directors. "Steve's brilliance, passion and energy were the source of countless innovations that enrich and improve all of our lives. The world is immeasurably better because of Steve. His greatest love was for his wife, Laurene, and his family. Our hearts go out to them and to all who were touched by his extraordinary gifts."
Steve Jobs lived from 1955 until 2011 and he will truly be missed by all. Read more...
J. Cole talks Lil Wayne vs. Jay-Z, who is better
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Before he was a famous rapper, with a number one album, J. Cole was a fan. Among the rappers he admired, growing up, was Jay-Z and he now records for his label. Despite this, J. Cole is still a fan of the rap game.
Evidenced in the title of his album, J. Cole has been on the sidelines, watching the rap game. J. Cole was watching when Jay-Z dropped the "baby money" line in "H.A.M." Like the rest of the world, he was shocked when Lil Wayne hit back on "It's Good."
While the beef was still brewing, J. Cole downplayed the barbs between Lil Wayne and Jay-Z. Days later, both Lil Wayne and Jay-Z denied any beef going on. Both rappers are known for their subliminal lines.
Once again, J. Cole discussed Lil Wayne vs. Jay-Z, but this time the focus was not on the beef. DJ Absolut spoke with the Fayetteville rapper, asking him how he felt was the better rapper. Staying out of the line of fire, J. Cole said both rappers are great. J. Cole also said it is not about who is the better emcee, as he does not think that matters.
J. Cole has also already started working on his sophomore album, which should be released sometime next year. Read more...
Fred The Godson discusses DJ Clark Kent and DJ Drama mixtape
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Among the people bringing New York hip hop back is Fred the Godson. Hailing from The Bronx, some have tried comparing the newcomer to the late Notorious B.I.G. Those sentiments have not come from everyone, though. Still, most have agreed Fred is a very gifted rapper.
DJ Clark Kent, a man who worked with The Notorious B.I.G., along with Jay-Z, has been made into a believer. Upon meeting the famed producer, Fred the Godson said they immediately hit if off, establishing a relationship. Fred the Godson said he was amazed when Clark Kent co-signed him.
Fred the Godson said it was an honor to be co-signed by the same man who co-signed Biggie and Jay-Z. It was Fred the Godson's friend, PJ from Mount Vernon, who helped them meet. Fred was told by DJ Clark Kent he would be one of the greatest if he continued to go at the rate he was going, making classic records.
Another famous DJ Fred the Godson is working with is DJ Drama. His Gangsta Grillz mixtape will be called Fred and Friends. The mixtape will support a lead single, which features Diddy, Meek Mill, and Cory Gunz/ Fred the Godson said the mixtape has nothing less than album-quality material. Being unsigned is the only reason the mixtape will not be sold in stores. Fred the Godson spoke on his single, "Gettin Money... Pt. 2," saying the mixtape would be an album, if not for him being unsigned and the DJ Drama affiliation.
Fred the Godson went on to say Fred and Friends would be better than 95% of the albums coming out. Read more...
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
DJ YRS Jerzy talks Age, School, and the Hip Hop Game
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Hip hop was established by young men. During the height of the 1990s hip hop, the most-popular rappers were young, as were the journalists. But, now hip hop has become a game for the mature.
Young people are still making moves in the game, evidenced by the success of Bow Wow and Soulja Boy. Among the new people rising in the game is DJ YRS Jerzy. At eighteen years old, he has hosted several mixtapes, rubbed shoulders with hip hop's elite, while still going to school.
DJ YRS Jerzy discussed his hectic life with Hip Hop Vibe.
Read the entire interview below:
How long have you been DJ-ing?
I have been DJ-ing for a year and a half. I just got serious this year, hosting mixtapes, I'm trying to become real big with the mixtapes.
Why did you choose DJ-ing over rapping?
I tried rapping and I was not too good at it. I had already had success with Virtual DJ, so I took it from there.
So far, who have you worked with?
I worked with Riot Music Group, Shorty Mack and Knockout and I am trying to work with everybody on their grind. Shout out to everybody I am working with.
Are you still in school?
Yeah, right now I'm doing my last year of high school. From there, I will be on this music even more.
Do you sometimes find yourself stressed because of school?
Not really. I found a way to balance things out. Some days, I focus solely on mixtapes and other days, I focus solely on school.
Are you planning to go to college?
Right now, I am still debating. If I were to go, it would probably be a college in New Jersey.
Who is your favorite rap artist?
Biggie, Stack Bundlez, Vado, Jay-Z, Kanye West, those are among my favorites.
Do you model yourself after any DJs in the game?
Not really, I have my own style of DJ-ing.
Do you have a favorite DJ, other than yourself?
Funkmaster Flex, DJ Drama, Ill Will, and all of them.
What projects do you have in the works?
I got a couple mixtapes in the works, some I cannot really talk about. But, I can say, the people will love the mixtapes I have planned in the next few months.
Can you tell us more about your involvement with Ray J's artist, Shorty Mack?
Me and Shorty Mack are going to keep dropping mixtapes. We just released The Remider and we are going to have more coming. I am trying to get him to work with more of my artists and we are focused on trying to get this money.
Could you see yourself running a record label?
Actually, I could, but not in the near future. But, in the next two or three years, I see myself running a business.
Who are the people helping you get to where you need to be?
My team, Young Riot Squad, Jason Anderson, he is helping me get this work out. Read more...
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