Can Diddy save New York hip hop?

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Hip hop originated in New York City, but was losing its grip on the hip hop game by the late 1980s. By the early 1990s, the West Coast had completely taken over the game. When New York needed new life breathed into them, it was Diddy, then known as Puff Daddy, who assmebled the team, which brought them back.

Def Jam is known as the mecca of hip hop. While there were hip hop record labels before Def Jam, they were run by older people, who did not quite understand hip hop. By the early 1990s, Def Jam did not quite understand current hip hop. In the end, Bad Boy Records revived the hip hop scene in New York.

With New York hip hop in ruins, once again, Def Jam is still not the label the people are turning to. Two of the biggest buzzing rappers from the City of New York are Red Cafe and French Montana. Two years ago, Diddy announced his re-focus on Bad Boy Records and announced he signed Red Cafe to the label, intending on making him the new flagship artist of the label.

Red Cafe is currently gearing up for his debut album and he is pounding the mixtape scene with a number of new releases. Along with the releases are coming music videos, which also showcase Red Cafe's artists who are signed to his Shakedown label. Diddy also managed to sign the entire Shakedown roster to his Bad Boy imprint, which is distributed by Interscope Records. For years, Diddy has been focused on his other business ventures, but his re-focus on his original business is doing wonders for hip hop.

Diddy is also negotiating with one of New York's hottest underground rappers, French Montana. Much like current Bad Boy artist, Red Cafe, French Montana is the head of his own label, Cocaine City. The roster boasts several other artists. If Diddy does end up signing French Montana, the entire Cocaine City roster will be included in the deal. Bad Boy Records has been compared to Def Jam, which distributed several sub-labels during their heyday, including Roc-A-Fella and Murder Inc.

With the new deal at Interscope Records, Diddy can establish the same sort of deal and distribute several labels in the New York area. The talent in New York remains there, but the exposure is what was lacking until recent years. Instead of waiting on the major label deals and the cameras, New York artists began creating their own labels, again, and turned on their own cameras. Now, they are catching the attention of the power-players, can Diddy be the man to put these people out?

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What if Roc-A-Fella Records had never Split?

By The Voice
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Sixteen years ago, Jay-Z was a street hustler trying to go legit. He had teamed up with Damon Dash and Kareem "Biggs" Burke to launch his own record label. Jay-Z had attempted to get signed by major labels, but none of them saw his vision. The trio's hail mary attempt was starting their own record label, Roc-A-Fella Records.

In 1996, Jay-Z released Reasonable Doubt and Roc-A-Fella Records took off. Memphis Bleek also signed to the label, while Jaz-O, a mentor, of sorts, to Jay-Z, and Sauce Money were expected to. For one reason or another, they never signed to the label. Roc-A-Fella Records soon established a distribution deal with Def Jam and hit it big.

Before the end of 1997, Jay-Z had a platinum album under his belt and was quickly becoming a big name in hip hop. By 1998, Jay-Z became the biggest rapper on the planet, propelled by his "Hard Knock Life" single. Soon, Def Jam was using Jay-Z to spin off the careers of DMX and Ja Rule. Because of Jay-Z's initial flame, both rappers went on to achieve much success. Back at Roc-A-Fella Records, the label added several rappers from Philadelphia, which became State Property.

When the 2000s emerged, Roc-A-Fella Records had become the biggest hip hop label in the game. Every rapper in the game wanted to be a part of the movement. If an artist did not want to sign to the Roc, they wanted a beat from one of the in-house producers. Due to the success they were having, Damon Dash decided the company should branch out, which led to the 1999 launch of Rocawear. Corporate giants were watching Roc-A-Fella Records, as they had become much more than an independent record label.

Most independent record labels were founded when an artist had trouble getting signed. After creating one hit, the label gets picked up by a bigger label and the star makes hits. Roc-A-Fella Records bucked the trend and continued to sign more artists. Not only was Roc-A-Fella Records signing artists, they were also helping artists out with their movements. Beanie Sigel created State Property Records under the Roc, Memphis Bleek's Get Low label was founded in 1998, under Roc-A-Fella Records.

Roc-A-Fella Records' biggest move came in 2001, when Cam'ron was signed. Being from Harlem, Cam'ron knew Damon Dash and the two were friends. Cam'ron was also the head of his own label, Diplomat Records and he came to Roc-A-Fella for a deal. Unlike other artists signed to Roc-A-Fella, Cam'ron had buzz before signing to the label. Previously, Cam'ron had a deal with Sony Records. But, in 2002, he had the biggest hit of his career with "Oh Boy" and his only platinum album, to-date, Come Home with Me.

By 2003, it was clear Roc-A-Fella Records was much more than hip hop, with a film division, a clothing line, subsidiary labels, and a liquor brand. The major corporate players had watched long enough and they decided it was time to make an offer. Def Jam offered to buy complete control of Roc-A-Fella Records and offer an executive role to Jay-Z. Already worth well over $100 million, Jay-Z would have been well without the role with the company.

However, a behind the scenes beef with his partners prompted Jay-Z to move with Def Jam. But, had their not been any beef, Roc-A-Fella Records could have either turned Def Jam down, or made a counter-move. Either way, the label could have continued to run the game. Had Roc-A-Fella Records turned Def Jam down, they could have easily established a new deal with another label, which could have been much more lucrative.

A bigger focus could have been placed upon the sub-labels, building their stars. With Kanye West emerging, the Roc-A-Fella movement could be what the Cash Money movement currently is. Cash Money Records has big names, such as Bow Wow and Lil Wayne and is also the head of the Young Money movement. It could have been the same way for Roc-A-Fella Records and Jay-Z could have been just as rich, if not richer, had the partners been able to stay together.

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Kanye West recording in R. Kelly's studio 2002

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Long before the world knew him, Kanye West had dreams of taking over the game. In 2001, Kanye West was signed to Roc-A-Fella Records. The label knew he wanted to rap, but he was on their roster because of his production abilities. By 2002, Kanye West demanded the label allow him to release a rap album.

Initially, Roc-A-Fella Records intended to use the album as a promotional outlet for their other artists. However, after Kanye West rapped a verse, things changed. Kanye West rapped some verses, which would become "Jesus Walks." It was then when Roc-A-Fella decided to allow Kanye West to release his album.

Kanye West recorded his debut album, The College Dropout, during the 2002-2003 period. During this time, Jay-Z and R. Kelly still maintained a friendship. This is evidenced, as Kanye West, the rap sidekick to Jay-Z, is recording in R. Kelly's studio.

Watch the video below:

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Young Chris ft. Push Montana - "Certified"

Former Roc-A-Fella rapper, Young Chris and Push Montana come together for a new single, "Certified."

Listen to "Certified" by Young Chris ft. Push Montana below:

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Beanie Sigel speaks on Prison Stint

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Last year, T.I.'s prison sentence made national news and it angered Beanie Sigel. At the time, Beanie Sigel had been taking shots at everyone. Initially, his only problem was with Jay-Z, but he soon dissed Memphis Bleek and Kanye West. When the news began reporting on T.I. he went at him, also.

Before so many rappers were going to prison, Beanie Sigel was behind bars, in 2005. During this period of time, Beans had also left Roc-A-Fella Records. In spite of everything going on, Beanie Sigel still managed to receive moderate radio play.

Now, in a more peaceful state of mind, Beanie Sigel opened up on his time behind bars. Beanie Sigel said he left his rap persona behind when he went to prison. Because of his stature, he was embraced by fellow inmates. Many prisoners had been behind bars for years, so they did not know what was currently going on, Beanie Sigel updated them.

Beanie Sigel said the time in prison was both good and bad. It was good because he needed a break from the game. However, Beanie Sigel could have come up with different ways to take his break. Still, he confirmed the stories about prison were true. Where most celebrities do not bode well in prison, Beans did and said he got some of the best sleep of his life while in prison.

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Rick Ross, not Lil Wayne, is the New Jay-Z

By The Voice
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

During the 1990s, Jay-Z built the dynasty, Roc-A-Fella Records. In the span of five years, he went from being a street hustler to being the focal point of the game. More than anything, Jay-Z wanted to mold someone in his image. Lil Wayne admitted he aspired to be like Jay-Z, but he is not.

While Lil Wayne is the biggest rapper on the planet, there are not people trying to be like him. Lil Wayne is respected for his unique style, but most men are not emulating him. Rick Ross has been accused of biting styles, but his style is often imitated. Not comparing lyrical ability and style, Rick Ross is the new Jay-Z.

Rick Ross is showing people how to do businesses, once again. In the time since Jay-Z went corporate, hip hop has not had anyone to look up to. With his frequent additions to Maybach Music, Rick Ross has provided this outlet. To many, Rick Ross has become the hustler people look up to, much like Jay-Z during his time.

Early in his career, Jay-Z helped Rick Ross get signed to Def Jam and he even executive-produced his debut album, Port of Miami. It was then when Rick Ross released his first hit, "Hustlin'," during the summer of 2006. Jay-Z provided a verse on the official remix of the single. Rick Ross' persona is similar to Jay-Z's in a number of ways, as both rap about their time on the streets. For those who truly are street hustlers, the music is inspiring.

Aside from this, Rick Ross has introduced people to his Maybach Music crew, which is not exclusive to the city of Miami. After Jay-Z solidified himself, he expanded his Roc-A-Fella crew, and it was not simply an outlet for other New York rappers. Rick Ross' focus is much bigger than rap and hip hop, as his goals are to take the corporate world by storm. With Jay-Z now spending most of his time in the office, Rick Ross has become the voice of the street, providing fans with the anthems.

Not comparing lyrical styles and places of origin, Rick Ross has filled the shoes Jay-Z left in the game.

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Jadakiss staying out of Lil Wayne/Jay-Z beef

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Having been away from the game for a little while, Jadakiss finds himself in the middle of hip hop's biggest headline. The Yonkers rapper recently provided a verse on Lil Wayne's "It's Good." The song was recorded for Tha Carter IV. In the song, all the rappers talked tough, but Lil Wayne went as far as dissing Jay-Z.

Ever since the release of The Blueprint 3, Birdman has been trying to challenge Jay-Z. When talking about Hov, Birdman often tries comparing him to Lil Wayne. After topping the Forbes list, Birdman stated he had more money than Jay-Z. As one of the original "money rappers," Jay-Z took shots at the Cash Money crew.

While Jadakiss was featured on Lil Wayne's diss record, he is making it clear he has nothing to do with it. On Twitter, Jadakiss angrily denied having any involvement in the feud. Jadakiss said the people need to stop it because he has no issues with Jay-Z. In 2007, Jay-Z signed him to Roc-A-Fella Records, however two years passed before he released an album with the label.

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Amil wants closure from Jay-Z

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

During the mid-1990s, one of the rising femcees was Amil, the female rapstress for Roc-A-Fella Records. Learning the game from Jay-Z, she was on the fast track to success. Aside from her verses on such hits as "Can I Get A...," Jay-Z's hit alongside Ja Rule, she was featured on every Jay-Z album from 1998 until 2000.

However, following the release of The Dynasty and her own debut album, Amil disappeared. Many assumed there was a major falling out between Jay-Z and Amil. Even when there is controversy, Jay-Z does a good job at keeping it under wraps. For the longest time, there have been rumors of Amil working at Macy's, upset with Jay-Z.

Recently, a Twitter account in her name took shots at a number of celebrities. Among the stars she took aim at were Foxy Brown and current rap kingpin, Rick Ross. With her name back in the headlines, Amil decided to come forward and address the rant. Amil revealed the Twitter account did not belong to her, as she does not have a Twitter nor Facebook.

Amil said she still has love for Jay-Z and he knows this. However, she does want to get in contact with him because she wants closure.

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Freeway preparing Roc-A-Fella documentary

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Outside of Def Jam, Roc-A-Fella Records is one of the most-acclaimed hip hop record labels in history. Founded by Jay-Z and Damon Dash, they dominated the hip hop scene for nearly ten years. While in the middle of their run, internal problems led to the untimely demise of the Roc.

Freeway was a member of Roc-A-Fella Records, representing the Philadelphia-based State Property movement. Despite the breakup, in 2004, Freeway remained with the label. In 2007, the label officially was destroyed when Jay-Z, the founding member, left for his new movement.

When Jay-Z left the label, so did the remaining artists. For the past four years, Freeway has been on the independent grind. It seemed as if he was headed to Cash Money Records, at one point. The former State Property rapper announced he was going to launch a label under Cash Money, called Free Money.

Thinking back to his Roc-A-Fella days, Freeway said he is going to produce a documentary about his time on the label and reflect on the Roc from his point of view.

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Jay-Z tops the Forbes Hip Hop Cash Kings list again

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Before Jay-Z, most rappers were content with just being rappers, they were signed to major label deals and had endorsements. It came easily for some, but for Jay-Z, it was a struggle. No record labels would sign him and he failed to land endorsement deals.

Sensing the way things would be, Jay-Z and his team established their own record label and clothing line. The record label was the ever-popular Roc-A-Fella Records and the clothing line, which goes without mentioning, is Rocawear.

Due to the popularity of his music, Jay-Z sold millions of records and the Roc-A-Fella artists also did well. This popularity trickled over into Rocawear. Now, Jay-Z is the head of Roc Nation and owns a minority share of Rocawear.

Recently, Jay-Z teamed up with Pharrell to become one of the models for his Billionaire Boyz clothing line, their partnership was announced last week. The business deals, paired with the artists being managed by his company, Roc Nation, and the residuals from Rocawear have kept Jay-Z on top. Recently, he topped the Forbes list of Hip Hop Cash Kings, earning $37 million over the past year.

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N.O.R.E. reflects on Nas feud

By The Hip Hop Writer
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.

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Freeway - "For the Paper"

Still working on his post-Roc-A-Fella movement, Freeway has been releasing a series of songs and mixtapes. The latest addition to this music is his new song, "For the Paper."

Listen to "For the Paper" by Freeway below:

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Beanie Sigel says Jay-Z blocked his G-Unit move

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Perhaps an attempt to prove to the people he is not trying to get back on Jay-Z's good side, Beanie Sigel has another story to tell. Following the 2004 Roc-A-Fella breakup, each member had to choose between Jay-Z and Damon Dash. Most of the members had no trouble choosing, but Beanie Sigel was stuck in the middle.

In the end, Beanie Sigel decided to stay with Roc-A-Fella, while maintaining a strong relationship with Dash. In 2005, after being released from prison, Beanie Sigel released a new album, which was moderately successful. Even after the release of his 2005 album, Beanie Sigel remained with the Roc until the 2008 dismantling.

Now, after revealing he has beef with Jay-Z, Beanie Sigel has made a number of outrageous comments. The Philadelphia rapper teamed up with 50 Cent, nearly two years ago, in an attempt to bring Jay-Z down. Ever since 50 Cent and Jay-Z made peace, Beanie Sigel has been going at Jay-Z without enforcement. Most recently, Beanie Sigel has decided to speak on his release from prison and his plans. Originally, Beans intended to sign with G-Unit Records, after having meetings with 50 and the other executives of G-Unit.

Beanie Sigel said when he went to Jay-Z to secure his release from Def Jam, Hov refused to let him off the roster. According to Beanie Sigel, 50 Cent offered him his own label under G-Unit, cash in advance, and a full label deal with Interscope Records. While Beanie Sigel wanted to leave Def Jam, he wanted to remain on the Roc-A-Fella Records roster, but Jay-Z still refused to release him. Being the president of the entire company, Beanie Sigel thought he could easily make the deal happen.

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Kanye West signs New Deal with Def Jam for G.O.O.D. Music

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Earlier today, Kanye West made a power play. For years, West has been the head of G.O.O.D. Music. Initially, he created the label for artists he had produced for. G.O.O.D. Music had released all of his albums through Roc-A-Fella/Def Jam. But, following the official end of the label, Kanye West moved into the main Def Jam label.

The current artists on G.O.O.D. Music have distribution deals with various labels. Common was one of the longest-running artists on the label, releasing his music through Geffen Records. However, Common recently signed with Warner Bros. Records, leaving both G.O.O.D. and the Geffen label.

When Big Sean signed with G.O.O.D. Music, he was signed to a distribution deal with Def Jam. Following Big Sean's success, early on, and Kanye's history, West decided to bring the entire G.O.O.D. Music roster over to Def Jam. The first artist to release an album under this new, exclusive deal with Def Jam will be newcomer, Big Sean, who is currently buzzing with his "My Last" single.

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Peedi Crakk opens up on Burned Bridges in the Rap Game

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

During the height of the Roc-A-Fella dynasty, not only did the label have a roster full of popular artists, these artists also had their own roster of artists. Peedi Crakk was signed to Roc-A-Fella Records through State Property Records, Beanie Sigel's imprint. When things officially fell apart, in 2008, Peedi Crakk was the spokesman.

Peedi Crakk said Jay-Z had dropped the entire Roc from the roster, along with other stories. Early in 2008, Peedi Crakk had one insult or another for Jay-Z. Things were escalated so far that Peedi Crakk began releasing diss records against Jay-Z. Recently, Peedi Crakk informed aspiring artists of how important it is to have solid connections.

Comparing where he is, now, to where he was with Jay-Z, Peedi Crakk more than likely wishes he had maintained peace with Jay-Z. Now a renowned businessman, Jay-Z is not going to release a diss record to ruin Peedi Crakk. Instead, the multimillionaire will simply ignore him and all of the other major players will follow suit. Peedi Crakk said the right relationships are more important than having talent if an artist truly wants to make it in the game.

With the right connections, it will be easy to land other big names on records. After burning the bridge with former boss, Jay-Z, Peedi Crakk has learned how hard it is to build these connections without any help.

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Cam'ron discusses Just Blaze feud

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

By 2002, Roc-A-Fella Records had reached their peak with Jay-Z on top of the rap game. Not only was Jay-Z on top, but Cam'ron also posted several hits and his Diplomat Records imprint was going strong. Many credit the addition of Cam'ron and the Diplomats to the end of the Roc-A-Fella dynasty.

Despite being a part of the same crew, Cam'ron and Jay-Z had been rivals for several years. When Jay-Z accepted the Def Jam role, Damon Dash had plans of Cam'ron taking over the Roc. This is what led to the demise of the dynasty. By 2005, half of the label had gone with Dash, including Cam and company.

Years after the fallout, Just Blaze opened up about his own beef with Cam'ron. During his time at Roc-A-Fella Records, Just Blaze became one of the top producers in the game. Blaze's beats were on many of the classic albums and still are to this day. Cam'ron reaped the benefits of having Just Blaze's beats on his albums.

Just Blaze said Cam'ron told him he should have been Dipset, so Just asked him for a chain. Cam'ron had purchased several chains and repeatedly told Blaze he should be Dipset. Just Blaze told him he was Dipset, just as much as he was State Property, Get Low, and Roc-A-Fella. From there, the feud was started, even though there was an apology. Just Blaze said Cam'ron cut ties with him then.

Cam'ron recently spoke out and said he has not talked to Just Blaze in years. The Harlem rapper went on to say he was unaware of any tension between the two of them. Ending any speculation of a feud, Cam'ron said he is proud of everything Just Blaze has accomplished and he is also grateful for everything he has done for him.

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J. Cole completes his Debut Album

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Three years of anticipation are seemingly over. In 2008, J. Cole was the first artist signed to Roc Nation. After years of running the powerhouse Roc-A-Fella Records, Jay-Z left the label he built for a new venture. From this venture, Roc Nation was born and Jay-Z began signing artists.

J. Cole was hailed by many as the second coming of Nas. With the marketing power of Jay-Z behind him, he was expected to become one of the big faces of hip hop. But, fate intervened and J. Cole was forced to wait on his new music. It was not until 2010 when he released his first single, "Who Dat."

While the song was a hit in North Carolina, it failed to garner much buzz and was not promoted. As a result, J. Cole was placed on the backburner in favor of Willow Smith. Her song, "Whip my Hair," became a hit and J. Cole was nearly forgotten. After years of delays, J. Cole has now completed his debut album.

The album will be released sometime in September of this year.

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Fiend talks Roc Nation and "Detox"

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Three years ago, Jay-Z announced he was leaving the record label he helped create, Roc-A-Fella Records. While leaving his label, Jay-Z was launching another, Roc Nation. Before the end of the year, he announced the first two artists on the label, J. Cole and Fiend.

Unlike J. Cole, Fiend had a history in the rap game. For years, Fiend was a member of No Limit Records. While representing the tank, Fiend became acquainted with Snoop Dogg. Through Snoop Dogg, he was introduced to Dr. Dre.

These connections still hold true, as Fiend addressed his current status with both Jay-Z and Dr. Dre. He said everything was ready to go regarding Roc Nation. But, his lawyer never drew up the paperwork, so the deal never went through.

While not going into great detail, Fiend revealed he has been invited to record with Dr. Dre on Detox.

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Freeway ft. J. Nicholas - "Rain Dance"

Two years have passed since Freeway last released an official studio album and he has one on the way. Since parting ways with Roc-A-Fella Records, Freeway has signed with Real Talk Entertainment.

His latest single, "Rain Dance," featuring J. Nicholas, looks like it could be the first official single from Freeway. The Philadelphia rapper has not announced a new album, but this may be that announcement.

Listen to "Rain Dance" by Freeway ft. J. Nicholas below:

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Young Chris talks Jay-Z and Kanye West's "Watch the Throne"

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Before the untimely demise of Roc-A-Fella Records, Young Chris was predicted as the future of the label. The way things looked, at the time, Jay-Z would likely stop recording albums and Kanye West would probably leave for a bigger label. In due time, all of this happened.

Three years have passed since Young Chris and the team were a part of the same label. During this period, some of the former members have remained loyal. However, some have gone completely against Jay-Z. But, in the end, Jay-Z remains unfazed by this.

Jay-Z and Kanye West have remained close after the breakup of the crew. West has focused more on his G.O.O.D. Music and the media has been all over Jay-Z's Roc Nation. Both are dominant forces in the rap game and they decided to team up. The two rappers, finally equals, have decided to release an album together, Watch the Throne.

Several rappers have given their opinion on the album, now including Young Chris. Yesterday, Young Chris talked about the album. He jokingly said the two rappers were cheating by coming together the way they have. However, he went on to say the album will be a classic album remembered for years to come. Chris went on to wish his big homies the best of luck.

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