Remembering Michael Jackson (1958-2009)

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Two years ago, the world received major shock when they discovered Michael Jackson was dead. While he was not a hip hop artist, Jackson has been very influential to all aspects of music. Throughout his lengthy career, Michael Jackson has worked with nearly every genre.

Michael Jackson's history in the music industry goes without saying. As a member of The Jackson 5ive, as a child, he helped keep Motown Records on top. Later in his career, as an adult, he helped Jive and Epic Records of Sony make records that still exist, sales-wise.

Many consider Jackson's 1982 release, Thriller, to be the greatest album of all-time. Selling 25 million copies in the United States, alone, it is the highest-selling, by far. Today, Hip Hop Vibe is going to take a trip dowm memory lane, featuring videos and interviews of Jackson, along with the regular dose of music videos, new songs, articles, and interviews.

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Royce Da 5'9 and Joell Ortiz discuss Slaughterhouse

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

With Slaughterhouse finally being signed to a record deal, fans are excited. Despite the super-team finally being created, some people fear of them coming out too soft. Many times, super-pairings, do not turn out as expected.

Slaughterhouse is only the latest in attempts of many rappers to come together. In 1997, The Firm, which consisted of Nas, AZ, Foxy Brown, and Cormega, released their debut album. As if the teaming was not major enough, The Firm's album was produced by Dr. Dre and released through Aftermath Entertainment.

The Firm's album flopped, only going platinum, when some expected the record to outsell Thriller. But, with the new Slaughterhouse group, no one is expecting major record sales. Instead, fans are expecting a lyrical warpath with Joell Ortiz, Royce Da 5'9, Joe Budden, and Crooked I. For all of those beginning to have doubts, Royce Da 5'9 and Joell Ortiz recently discussed the group's next release. The two said their music will bring about the return of lyricism to hip hop and will help cement Shady Records as a true hip hop label.

Shady Records has been struggling outside of Eminem for the past few years, but Slaughterhouse promises to provide more hits for the label.

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