Mos Def Freestyle at MAGIC.

Hip Hop Official caught Mos Def kicking a free for the people at the Magic Convention in Las Vegas.

[NEW] Madlib (feat. MED and Poke) - The Ox (805)

Madlib is the shit. This song features MED and Poke is appears on 'Lib's upcoming album, WLIB AM: King Of The Wigflip.

The song title refers to Madlib's hometown of Oxnard, California and it's 805 area code. Founded in 1903, it is home to nearly 200,000 citizens (192,997)[1] and is the largest city in the Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura Metropolitan Area, which is located about 60 miles north of Los Angeles. So now you know.

DOWNLOAD: Madlib (feat. MED and Poke) - The Ox (805)

Supernatural Freestyling at MAGIC.

Check out Supernat doing what he does best at the M.A.G.I.C. Fashion Convention in Las Vegas. If you've never heard/seen Supernatural freestyle, basically his steez is that he has random people in the audience hand him random inanimate objects and he spits about them. Hip Hop Official makes an appearance in the freestyle @ 3:42.

Supernat knows what's up.

4 out of 5 Dentists Recommend Lil Wayne Stays Home.

Lil Wayne is in trouble again after missing a court date...because of his pearly whites. Evidently, all that syrup he's sipping is rotting his teeth because Weezy had an emergency dental work procedure in which he had numerous root canal surgeries - prompting his dentist to urge him not to travel. And because he couldn't travel he couldn't go to Arizona for his scheduled court appearance. I hope he got a doctor's note.

He was supposed to appear in a Yuma County (Arizona) court, facing a few charges here and there, including:

(1) possession of a narcotic drug for sale.
(2) possession of dangerous drugs.
(3) misconduct involving weapons.
(4) possession of drug paraphernalia.
(5) transportation and/or sale of a narcotic drug.
(6) transportation and/or sale of a dangerous drug.
(7) damn.

Artist of the Week: Black Milk

Detroit producer and emcee, Black Milk is crowned Hip Hop Official's Artist of the Week. This kids has skills. He's one of the best up and coming producers in the game, and is carrying the torch of that Detroit Dilla sound. You know what it is...

Check the interview:


Aside from his dope debut album, Popular Demand, he has worked with numerous cats including Dilla, Slum Village, Pharoahe Monche, Canibus, Lloyd Banks, Elzhi, Guilty Simpson, and Buff 1...He's definitely laced some of the sickest beats in the past few years. So get off your Serta, and take notice.

[BONUS] DOWNLOAD: Black Milk - "Shut It Down"
[BONUS] DOWNLOAD: Slum Village (feat. J Dilla)- "Reunion" (prod by Black Milk)

[VIDEO] Common Feat. Pharrell - "Announcement"

Off his new album, Invincible Summer, dropping this fall. This song is dope. Common returns to his lyrical-self and goes heavy on the word play that we Used to Love H.I.M. for back in the day. I also love the Biggie references and tribute lines to the Notorious. Good shit, Lonnie.

[BONUS] DOWNLOAD: Common Feat. Pharrell - "Announcement"

[VIDEO] Talib Kweli feat. KRS-One - "Perfect Beat"

I've spent my entire life searching for the perfect beat. Talib and KRS have found theirs.

Q-Tip.

Some new stuff from the Abstract Poetic. Above in his unofficial video to his new single "Gettin Up" (which I'm lovin right now) from his upcoming album, The Renaissance. The video is performance footage from various Rock The Bells shows across the country. This is just an educated guess, but this footage might be shot by Michael Rappaport, because he has been following Tribe around and is shooting a documentary about the group. I saw him onstage, shooting footage at the L.A. show.

Below is a dope interview with Tip on the Juan Epstein podcast (Peter Rosenberg + DJ Cipha Sounds from Hot 97), where he talks about early and rare Tribe stories and behind-the-scene accounts of their recordings. Shit is dope.

DOWNLOAD: Q-Tip on Juan Epstein Podcast

[VIDEO] Kanye West - "Good Morning" (Animated Version)

This is fresh. Designed by Takashi Murakami who is incredibly dope and designed the latest Kanye cover.

Dr. Dre's Son Passes Away.

This is so sad. Condolences to Dre and his fam. Dre Jr. was an aspiring producer and musician, who wanted to follow in his father's footsteps...

Andre Romelle Young Jr., the son of rapper and pioneering hip-hop producer Dr. Dre, was found dead in his Woodland Hills, California, home Saturday morning, according to Dre’s representative. He was 20 years old.

An autopsy was conducted on Young’s body Monday, but a cause of death has not yet been determined, pending the results of a toxicology report, a representative for the Los Angeles County Coroner’s office told MTV News. The coroner’s rep confirmed that an Andre Romelle Young Jr. passed away Saturday, but was uncertain if he was Dre’s son; Dre’s rep confirmed that information Tuesday (August 26).

Young was discovered in his bed at around 10:30 a.m. Saturday by his mother, who attempted to rouse him, the coroner’s spokesperson said. Young was unresponsive, so she called paramedics, who responded to the scene. After their efforts to revive him failed, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

[NEW] T.I. (feat. Kanye, Jay-Z, Lil Wayne) - "Swagger Like Us"

The internets have been buzzing about this song all weekend. Four of the heaviest hitters in the game on one track, talking about how dope they are, complete with a heavy synth Southern beat and a hook featuring an M.I.A sample from her track, "Paper Planes".

Who wouldn't be happy about this song?

Well, T.I., that's who. The song is featured on his upcoming album, Paper Trail, which drops on Sept 30th. It was one of the premier records on his album, and Tip wants to know how the hell it got to the internet.

"That's some bullsh--," a disappointed Tip told MTV News. "I'm beating down the Internet as we speak. Don't ruin the event. Wait till the cake comes out the kitchen before you eat it. That's like a kid who sees his toys before Christmas; it takes away from me and I think it takes away from the fans as well. When it's time, I'mma give it to you. They leaked my record with me and The-Dream ["Like I Do"] too. Leakage is never a problem I have had. I'm not used to it."

Well, Clifford, you better get used to it real quick. It's not going to change anytime soon. In fact, music will be free before we know it, so you might as well adapt and embrace the situation. Sometimes a leak like this can actually HELP your record sales. (Right, Weezy?)


DOWNLOAD: T.I. (feat. Kanye, Jay-Z, Lil Wayne) - "Swagger Like Us"

In an unrelated note, can we please stop using the word "Swag" to define someone's credibility like it holds weight in their emcee abillity. That shit is down right ridiculous. Thank you. [/soap box]

Buff 1 - "Beat the Speakers Up" (Live)

Buff 1 performed last week at his album release party at the Little Temple in Los Angeles, CA. (His album There Can Only Be 1 is in stores now). He threw down a dope set, and the highlight was definitely his single "Beat the Speakers Up". Hip Hop Official was there to catch all the speaker abuse.

If you are unfamiliar with Buff 1, go here and you might learn something.

[VIDEO] Smiley The Ghetto Child - The Wake Up Call (prod. by DJ Premier)

The Wake Up Call

If this isn't a Primo beat, I don't know what is...I could tell it was him within the first 2 bars. Classic Premier signature. We need more music like this.

BTW: Myspace videos >>> YouTube videos.

Diddy, He's Just Like Us.

Mega-millionaire has to fly commercial airlines with the commoners? What is the world coming to?!?

[NEW] 88-Keys (feat. Kanye West) - Stay Up! (Viagra)

Super producer 88 Keys steps into the rhyming arena with his upcoming album, The Death of Adam (Adam = Man). It's a concept album about what he describes as the "The Power of the Va-Jay-Jay" (We all know about that). The album is due out on October 28th, and is executive produced by a guy named Kanye West.

DOWNLOAD: 88 Keys - Stay Up! (Viagra) (feat. Kanye West)

[NEW] Illa J - We Here (prod by J Dilla)

For those of you unfamilar with Illa J, he is the late great J Dilla's little brother. He might recognize him as the lead from Dilla's video "Won't Do." Well, considering his bloodline, the kid is a talented musician. He's releasing an LP titled, Yancy Boys, and this is the first offering produced by J Dilla. Little J has a cool little flow to him, and the same smooth and soul vibe his brother provided. The song is a feel good joint, celebrating life.

"One of the things I learned from my brother is that you don’t get that much time, so make the most of it. That’s why I’ve decided to dedicate my life to doing what I love: music." - Illa J

DOWNLOAD: Illa J - We Here (prod by J Dilla)

Your Favorite Rapper's Favorite Rapper: Kardinal Offishall.

Kardinal Offishall, aka Celebrity Face talks about his favorite rapper of all time, The Blastmaster. And realistically, he should be one of everyone's favorite rappers.

Fresh, for 2008, you suckas.

Buff 1 Interview.

Michigan mic wrecker, Buff 1, sat down with Hip Hop Official to talk about his beginnings, his hometown, and his new (bangin!) single, "Beat the Speakers Up". His album, There Can Only Be 1, is in stores now and should be in your collection not now, but right now. This kid spits fire. Plus, he's humble, intelligent, and hates whack music just as much as you do.

DOWNLOAD: Buff 1 - "Beat the Speakers Up"
DOWNLOAD: Buff 1 - "Goodness Music"

Artist of the Week: Everlast

Last week, Everlast was the HHO Artist of the Week. Formerly of House of Pain, Ev did his solo thing singing the blues as Whitey Ford, and now he's teamed up with La Coka Nostra. The Irish blooded rapper/singer/songwriter has adapted to the ever-changing music climate while still being true to himself. He's releasing a solo album, Love, War, and the Ghost of Whitey Ford on September 24, and his group La Coka Nostra drops their album in November. Looks like his name fits him perfectly.

Peep the interview, and a bonus download after that...



BONUS: La Coka Nostra - "That's Coke"

M.I.A.

Me, not the singer. I've been out of commission, so I haven't updated the blog for over a week. Sorry, I've been sick as hell and bedridden with walking pneumonia. Shit was No Joke.

But I'm back now, so let's get you caught up on what's be poppin in the world of Hip Hop.

Fashawn - "Shut Up and Let Me Go" (Live)

Up and coming Cali emcee Fashawn spits hotness over The Ting Tings instrumental. This is crossover gold. It's so addictive, I've been watching this shirtless, on the edge of my bed, hunched over my laptop like Pookie in New Jack City.

[VIDEO] The Game (ft. Lil Wayne) - "My Life"

[NEW] GZA - "Pencil" (feat. Masta Killa and RZA)

All into together now...things are looking good, getting better now (c) Method Man

New fire from the Genius. This guy is my favorite Wu member, depending on what day it is. Today is that today. This is off his upcoming album, Pro Tools, which drops next Tuesday, Aug 19th.

DOWNLOAD: GZA - "Pencil" (feat. Masta Killa and RZA)


[BONUS]: Watch the GZA talk about the upcoming album.

Reporter Turns Ghetto In 3 Seconds.

I'm still waiting for Al Roker to flip out.

De La Soul Interview @ Rock The Bells.

Hip Hop Official teamed up with Guerilla Union to bring you this interview with De La Soul. True legends...20 years in the game. Dave and Maseo talk about Rock The Bells, their longevity and future projects. But they real question is: Where's Posdnuos?

Chinese Water Is Better Than Ours.

It makes shapes, designs, and words...and it's probably infused with electrolytes too. Take that Smart Water.

[VIDEO] Opio - "To The People"

New video from the Hiero member Opio, off his new album Vulture's Wisdom: Vol 1, which is in stores now and in my mp3 collection as well.

Rock The Bells 2008: Los Angeles Recap.

Check out the Hip Hop Official video recap from the Rock The Bells Tour as they stopped in sunny Los Angeles. (a.k.a. the best day of 2008). Featuring Tribe, Nas, De La, Pharcyde, Mos Def, Ghostface, Raekwon, Meth and Red, and re-introducing the special guest performer the Black Eyes Peas (minus Fergie)!

"So hip-hop I bust nuts in graffiti." (c) Q-Tip


More footage from the show coming soon! All Access, baby.

The Game is Leaking.

The New Music Cartel got their hands harddrives on a copy of the Game's new album, LAX. And leaks are springing up left and right. The album seems like it features some heavy hitters, as the guest features are pretty tight. Here are a few of the gems they have dropped. They are all clean versions, but that way you will go out and buy the actual album...

[DOWNLOAD] The Game - "Angel" (feat. Common)
[DOWNLOAD] The Game - "Bulletproof Diaries" (feat. Raekwon)
[DOWNLOAD] The Game - "State of Emergency" (feat. Ice Cube)
[DOWNLOAD] The Game - "Ya Heard" (feat. Ludacris)

PREVIOUSLY: The Game - "Letter to the King" (feat. Nas)

[NEW] Madlib (feat. Guilty Simpson) - "Go!"

So one of the most underrated and innovative producers in the game (Madlib) is dropping a new album September 30th titled WLIB AM: King of the Wigflip, and will feature the likes of Guilty Simpson, Murs, Oh No, and J-Rocc. I got a sneak preview of that new hotness right here.

This beat is so sinister the devil himself would have wanted to rip this. Too bad Guilty beat him to it.

DOWNLOAD: Madlib (feat. Guilty Simpson) - "Go!"


Thanks to the dopeboyz for this one.

[New] The Game ft. Nas - "Letter To The King" (prod. by Hi-Tek)

The Game and Nas write a letter to Dr. Martin Luther King (RIP). This is powerful. Nas does Nas. Game name drops more than any other rapper, but he comes correct. Has he ever wrote a verse and NOT mentioned someone else? Hi-Tek came so dope on this one. The music is beautiful. This is the type of song you throw on, sit back, and zone out to. Word.

This will be the best song on LAX.

[DOWNLOAD] The Game ft. Nas - "Letter To The King" (prod. by Hi-Tek)(Clean)

These Are the Breaks: Isaac Hayes.

(Our weekly look back at the original songs your favorite Hip-Hop records sampled)

I took last week off from this section of the blog because I was on vacation, but I'm making up for it with an extensive post this time around. And it's only right that this week were are looking at a musical legend, a soul pioneer, the Black Moses: Isaac Hayes. Hayes passed away this Sunday at the age of 65 from an apparent stroke, but his music will live on forever - especially in Hip-Hop. His soulful music music has laid the groundwork for countless hip-hop artist and legendary rap records.

Alongside his work in popular music, Hayes was a film score composer for motion pictures. He's best known for creating the illest theme music ever for the 1971 blaxploitation film Shaft, which earned Hayes an Academy Award for Best Original Song (the first Academy Award received by an African-American in a non-acting category) and two Grammy Awards. Hayes also got his silver screen on and appeared in numerous movies and television shows. Most of you new jacks will know him as the voice of "Chef" on South Park.

Let's get into it the samples.

(1) Isaac Hayes - "Walk On By" [DOWNLOAD]

His first album, Hot Buttered Soul, is widely regarded as a landmark in soul music. Not only did it have one of the best album titles ever, but it broke away from the typical three-minute song format, but rather consisted of just four tracks ranging between 5 and 18 minutes long. The first song on the album is a Burt Bacharach cover and is titled "Walk On By." It's been sampled by Tupac, Compton's Most Wanted, and most notably The Notorious B.I.G.


Notorious B.I.G. - "Warning"




(2) Isaac Hayes - "Hyperbolicsyllabicsesquedalymistic" [DOWNLOAD]

Next up, from the same album, Hot Buttered Soul, the second track on the record is "Hyperbolicsyllabicsesquedalymistic." Say that 3 times fast. The funky bass and wah wah guitar loop were used most notably by DJ Quik and Public Enemy.


DJ Quik - "Born and Raised in Compton"


Public Enemy - Black Steel in the Hour of Chaos"




(3) Isaac Hayes - "The Look Of Love" [DOWNLOAD]

Hayes' released his fourth studio album, ...To Be Continued, in 1970. The album featured one of Isaac's most famous songs, "The Look of Love" which was another Burt Bacharach cover. It's one of the dopest instrumental intros of all time, and has been sampled by everybody: LL Cool L, Special Ed, Smif N Wessum, Snoop Dogg, and of course Jay-Z.


Jay-Z - "Can I Live?"




(4) Isaac Hayes - "Ike's Mood" [DOWNLOAD]

From the same album, comes "Ike's Mood" which was an instrumental track and a part of medley on the B-Side of "...To Be Continued." The song has multiple changes, and each intricate part has been used for classic song after classic song. It's the most sampled Issac song, flipped at least 20+ times from LL Cool J to Mary J. Blige, but most recognized as Biz Markie's "Make The Music." The loop Biz used starts at 1:45.

Ah, one-two, ah, one-two

Biz Markie - "Make The Music"




(5) Isaac Hayes - "Hung Up on My Baby" [DOWNLOAD]

In 1974, Hayes appeared in the blaxploitation flick, Three Tough Guys, and also recorded the soundtrack which was titled, Tough Guys. The soundtrack featured a song called, "Hung up on My Baby" which might be Hayes' most widely recognized hip-hop sample. The second you hear it, you know exactly where it's from...it drops in at 0:29 seconds.

Classic.

Geto Boys - "My Mind Is Playing Tricks On Me"

The intro from the song is also used in an obscure, but well known Cali song by Second II None...

Second II None - "If You Want It"




(6) Isaac Hayes - "A Few More Kisses To Go" [DOWNLOAD]

By 1979, the music landscape had changed. Soul music was starting to take a backseat to disco. Hayes adapted, and returned to the Top 40 with Don't Let Go and its disco-styled title track that became a hit single (U.S. #18), and also featured the classic "A Few More Kisses To Go" which was later turned into a one of my favorite Redman songs of all time.

I walk around town with the black tech nine by the waistline...

Redman - "Tonite's Da Night"

VH1 Hip-Hop Honors.

VH1 announced their Hip-Hop Honorees for this year: De La Soul, Slick Rick, Cypress Hill, Naughty By Nature, and Too Short. Yes, yes, yes, yes, and yes.

Good job, Video Hits One. I hope Lupe is familiar with 3 Feet High and Rising.

Photos from Rock The Bells 2008 - Los Angeles

As you all know, Hip Hop Official was live+direct from the Glen Helen Pavilion in Los Angeles San Bernardino for the Rock The Bells Tour 2008. We took hundreds of photos from the event, featuring all your favorite rappers and your favorite rapper's favorite rappers.

I don't have to tell you that it was the Hip-Hop event of the year (Sorry Kanye). Everyone who performed ripped it. Not one person left unsatisfied... Well, except those that came to see MF DOOM.

Shout out to Jay Three Photogrpahy for the sick camera work.

Part 1.

Click HERE to view entire gallery.

Part 2.

Click HERE to view entire gallery.

We'll have video from the event coming this week...Stay Tuned.

[VIDEO] Santogold - "Lights Out"

Fresh video. It's a little different sound from Santo - not so much dub/hiphop, but more "new new wave." But it's still fresh. She is currently out on tour with Coldplay.

Thanks to Pitchfork.

[VIDEO] Cut Chemist - "My 1st Big Break"

New video from the Cut Chemist. It's the first video ever shot with a 360 panoramic lens. Think about that for a second. This might blow your mind.

[VIDEO] Kanye West - "Champion"

Kanye + Crank Yankers + The Olympics = "Champion" video.

Artist of the Week: 88-Keys

88 Keys: a producer, making the crossover to emcee. He's best known for his work with Mos Def and Rawkus - he produced Black Star's "Thieves In The Night"

He just dropped a mixtape a few months back and is set to drop his debut album, The Death Of Adam, October 28th. The mixtape is mad fresh, his sample selection is mad creative and highly original. Oh yeah, he's also a proud father of two future superstars. Get to know 88-Keys...



[BONUS] DOWNLOAD: 88-Keys - "Just LIKE a Man" (ft. Guilty Simpson)
[BONUS] DOWNLOAD: 88-Keys - "21 & Over" (ft. Big Sean)

[VIDEO] Invincible - "Sledgehammer"

Damn, this girl is dope. Invincible is a female MC from Detroit, down with the typical Rock CIty cats: elZhi, Guilty SImpson, Phat Kat, Black Milk, Now On, Buff1, and One Be Lo.

I know Hip-Hop is a male dominant culture, and a misogynistic one at that. I also know that some people don't get down with female emcees. But I don't need to tell you that Invincible can hold her own against any emcee - male or female. This girl has flow + lyrics, and a smooth voice to match. If there's one thing I can't stand in a female emcee is a rough neck voice (sorry Foxy). That shit is a total turnoff to me. I like my aural pleasure nice and smooth.

This track appears on her album, Shape Shifters, and was produced by 14KT and Hair Cut (Now On), from the Lab Techs. Impressive.

[NEW] Jay-Z - "Jockin' Jay-Z" (prod. by Kanye West)

Here it is...the first taste of The Blueprint 3, featuring the 2 biggest rap superstars on the planet (Sorry Weezy). It's a banging old school sounding track with a perfect Run DMC sample. You already know what Jigga does. Props to Nah Right for this gem. It's the clean version, but it'll do... UPDATE: Added the dirty version for those of you who aren't offended by foul language.


DOWNLOAD: Jay-Z - "Jockin' Jay-Z" (prod. by Kanye West)[Dirty]

DOWNLOAD: Jay-Z - "Jockin' Jay-Z" (prod. by Kanye West)[Clean]



PREVIOUSLY: Jay Z + Kanye = Blueprint 3

Fake MF Doom.

So I've heard rumors and stories about Doom not showing up for shows, but instead having a stand-in, a Doom imposture if you will, show up and lip synch to the CD while hiding behind his Metal Face mask. Well, evidently this happened again. It went down this weekend at the biggest hip hop festival of the year, he Rock The Bells show in Los Angeles. Doom was the headlining act for the secondary stage, and when it was time for him to perform...well, he wasn't really performing. In fact, it wasn't even him.

I was at the show, but not at the stage when it went down (Nas was performing on the main), but I heard the ruckus. People were PISSED. Watch the video, the fans knew within the first 40 seconds that something was mad fishy. They started booing and throwing shit on stage immediately. Evidently, this wasn't the first time he's done this to Guerilla Union (the company who puts on the RTB event), in fact, he was performing this year in order to make up for him pulling this same fuckery on them before. The worst part is, they paid him upfront. Needless to say, the fans and Guerilla Union were not happy with MF Dupe. Or should we call him Masked Fake Doom?

This begs the question. Is MF Doom even real? Is it really one person? We all know he has like 17 different aliases. He ALWAYS performs with the mask and wears it in interviews and photo shoots. Has anyone ever really met him sans-mask? Have we been duped the whole time?

Why do people still pay him to perform? It's only a matter of time before he's blackballed from the industry. And I bet he's sitting in a lounge chair right now laughing at all of us.

Rock The Bells L.A.

Hip Hop Official was on hand for the Rock The Bells show in Los Angeles San Bernardino this weekend, and let me just say - standing on stage, with Mos Def to my right, and De La to my left, and watching Tribe perform in front of 40,000 screaming fans was one of the sickest events I've ever been a part of. It was historic, and they tore it down. I know most people were there to see Nas, but Tribe was definitely the most memorable part of the show. Believe that.

Here are some photos we took during some of our interviews, but this is just a taste. We'll have about 500+ more photos for you tomorrow, plus interviews and footage from the event on Wednesday. Keep on refreshin.

(We had some skateboards made with the HHO and Rock the Bells logo, as well as the names of every artist on the bill. We had every artist sign them, and will be auctioning them off for charity in the not so distant future, so stay tuned for that.)

The Notorious B.L.O.G. Version 2.0

Change is rapidly approaching. This blog isn't going anywhere, but it will undergo an Extreme Home Makeover. The powers that be (my bosses) have decided to change the look, layout, and possibly name of the blog. Why? Well, this blog represents Hip Hop Official, and Hip Hop Official is a part of Go TV, and Go TV is media company that has to cater to board members, investors, and clients. They like branding. It's a good business tactic. So the new blog will look like all the other Hip Hip Official pages.

Sorry for the sudden change, I know it can be difficult to accept. It's a shock to me as well. Stay strong. We can all get through this together.

Thanks to the loyal and devoted readers, keep peeping the page as often as you do. Don't be alarmed when you come here next time - it may look a little different, but it will always remain the same: strictly hip-hop. The current links and URL will still work, so if you have this page bookmarked or set as a favorite, it will still work.

The Notorious B.L.O.G. is Ready To Die.

Jay-Z + Kanye = Blueprint 3

Originally, the word on the streets blogs was that Timbaland was going to produce Jay-Z's final Def Jam album. Now, some new details surfaced that dispel those rumors. Mick Boogie revealed the new details, and lets just say, if this is true it's going to be epically epic.

+ Kanye will indeed be producing most, if not all, of the album. Remember back in the day when an artist would do a whole album with one producer for cohesiveness? Think classic Snoop or Jeru with Primo... and fast forward it to 2008.

+ Jay will be leaking the finished version of "Jockin" as soon as he adds a new 3rd verse to the song.

+ Tracks to look for include the aforementioned "Jockin' Jay-Z" and a new track entitled "Victory" that the rumor mill says is simply amazing.

Here's a taste of what to expect...

R.I.P.

Bernie Mac (October 5, 1957 – August 9, 2008)



Isaac Hayes (August 20, 1942 – August 10, 2008)

Today.

I'm on my way.

I'll have a full write up and review on Monday, and backstage access and interviews with all your favorite artists next week. Stay tuned...

[NEW] The Game - "Superman" (prod by Just Blaze)

East meets West.

Off The Game's upcoming (and final?) album, L.A.X.

Meet...The Knux.

The brothers Krispy Kreme and Rah Almillio form the Knux, the latest alternative hip-hop crew from LA, by way of New Orleans. Hip Hop Official caught up with the dudes performing at the Roxy in Los Angeles, opening for DJ AM and Travis Barker. Get to know these dudes...their album Remind Me In 3 Days drops later this year...

[BONUS] DOWNLOAD: The Knux - "Cappuccino"

[NEW] N.E.R.D. (ft. Kanye, Lupe, and Pusha-T) - Everyone Nose (Remix)

"All the girls standing in the line for the bathroom!"

The ode to cokehead girls in video form.


[BONUS] DOWNLOAD: N.E.R.D. (ft. Kanye, Lupe, and Pusha-T) - Everyone Nose (Remix)

I Came In The Door, I Said It Before...

Rakim Allah, aka the Microphone Fiend, aka The 18th Letter, aka The God Emcee sits down with DJ Green Lantern backstage at Rock The Bells in Boston. He's arguably the most influential emcee in hip hop, and been Moving Crowds for over 20 years. This is the definition of a hip-hop legend.

[NEW] Elzhi - "Colors"

This is slightly different than Ice-T's version. But Elzhi knows how to put fly words together to make clever sentences what rhyme really well. Call it a gift. His wordplay in this one is top notch. Pay attention, you wack emcees, you might learn something.

DOWNLOAD: Elzhi - "Colors" (produced by Black Milk)

P.S. Black Milk is developing to one of the best up and coming producers in the game. What is about Detroit and making good music? Is there something in the tap water? I know it's not the weather.

P.P.S. Elzhi's debut solo album drops next Tuesday, August 12th. Do yourself (and Hip-Hop) a favor, and cop it.

P.P.P.S. If you need more information on who Elzhi is, go here.

Lil Wayne & Jay-Z: Mr. Carter Spoof.

I don't how Jay and Weezy could make a better video than this...

Starring comedian Affion Crockett (The GOAT rapper spoofer); the creative genius who brought you the brilliant Juelz and Lil Wayne spoof. He also does a spot on Jay-Z and Ludacris impression. Affion should just release a rap album already, it would be hotter than 90% of this nonsense out today.

[NEW] Joe Budden - "Touch & Go"

Joe Budden has kept a relatively low profile since his self-titled debut album went gold in 2003, earning him a Grammy nomination for best male rap solo performance. Despite his successful debut, Budden’s sophomore album sat on the shelves at Def Jam for nearly four years.

After finally cutting ties with Def Jam in 2007, Budden signed with Amalgam Digital, the booming independent responsible for launching hip-hop’s first genre-specific digital retail store. Amalgam promises to release Joe Budden’s highly anticipated sophomore album, “Padded Room” on October 28, 2008 features this new single, "Touch & Go."

DOWNLOAD: Joe Budden - "Touch & Go"


BONUS: Behind the scenes at the video shoot for the same song.

Freestyle 101: Tech N9ne

Kansas City emcee, and one of the illest people on the planet, Tech N9ne steps into the booth for G4.

De La Soul Interview w/ DJ Green Lantern

De La chops it up with Green Lantern backstage at Rock The Bells in Boston. RTB hits L.A. this Saturday. Stay tuned for full all access coverage from the event as we'll be backstage and talking with all the biggest names at the show.

Artist of the Week: Pacific Division

"Pocket full of paper, sneakers on my feet."

Mibbs x Like x Be Young = Pac Div. Three cats from Los Angeles who are the new F.A.T. Boys for 2008. Fashionable. Artistic. Trendsetters. Hip Hop Official caught up with the crew at the Standard Hotel in Los Angeles for a slamming pool party and performance. The fellas talk about their brand new record deal with Universal and how they are definitely not hipster rappers.

After the video, download some bonus tracks from Pac Div.



[BONUS] DOWNLOAD: Pacific Division - "F.A.T. Boys '08"
[BONUS] DOWNLOAD: Pacific Division - "Taste"

[NEW] Murs - "Can It Be"

This is the next single from Murs' new album, Murs For President, hitting the stores and voting ballots September 30th. I'm a big fan of Murs, and this album is going to be bangin. The song contains a dope Jackson 5 sample that my homie Gio used (first) for his song "Just Stuntin'" . Looks like Warner is ponying up that sample clearance money for Murs. First that now this. Impressive, they might actually care about this release...

DOWNLOAD: Murs - "Can It Be"

[NEW] Asher Roth - "I Love College"

This song sums up the best four five years of my life (a.k.a. College). There's nothing like experiencing your first taste of freedom from the parentals and having nothing to worry about except where was the next party and who had a legit fake ID.

For those of you unaware of Asher Roth, he's a white rapper from Pennsylvania burbs who spits about college, frat parties, and boobs. The Eminem comparisons are unavoidable (not only is he white, he kinda sounds like him) but the kid definitely has some talent. He's clever, funny, and has a cool little flow to him. If he's marketed correctly, this kid could be a star because the white girls will love him. And we all know if the white girls like you, you can blow up.

DOWNLOAD: Asher Roth - "I Love College"

[VIDEO] David Banner (ft. Lil Wayne) - "Shawty Say"

New David Banner video featuring Lil Wayne off his album, The Greatest Story Ever Told.

Peep the behind the scenes here.

The Notorious B.I.G. - Ready to Die (The O.G. Edition)

Considering the name of this blog, and the accompanying header at the top of the page is based on Biggie's Ready To Die album, this post is only right. It's no secret Biggie Smalls is my favorite emcee of all time, so this is a very special treat. I came across a rare copy of the ORIGINAL version of Big's Ready To Die album. This is how he wanted to release it, from start to finish. Some of the songs didn't make the album or were changed a bit due to sample clearance and other label politics.

Trust me when I tell you, DO NOT SLEEP ON THIS. Scoop it up ASAP before it's gone.

Highlights include:

(a) a Primo produced "Machine Gun Funk"
(b) "Ready To Die" with the completely different, original beat
(c) "The What" with the original unheard lyrics from BIG.
(d) "Juicy" (The Pete Rock version)
(e) Five unreleased songs that didn't make the album, including "Who Shot Ya?"
(f) And so much more.


DOWNLOAD HERE AND ENJOY.

[NEW] The GZA - "0% Finance"

Wu-Tang Financial in the building. You need to diversify your bonds! (c) Gza

Here's a new cut from the Genius that was supposed to appear on his next album, but evidently wont because of sample clearance issues. Grab this while you can!

DOWNLOAD: The GZA - "0% Finance"

U-N-I: "Castlevania" (Live)

The U-N-I crew performs their ode to classic video games. Yes, these dudes still play Nintendo.

Top 10 Greatest Beats for Freestyling.

Since it's Freestyle Friday, it got me thinking. Everyone always argues the greatest freestylers of all time (Canibus, Eminem, Supernatural, etc), but what about the other aspect of freestyling - the beat? A sick beat is one half of a dope ass freestyle. So lets take a look at the Top 10 illest beats to catch wreck to. This list was compiled by a team of highly training and certified experts - Me and the Hip Hop Official team. If you don't like it, get yo own blog.

Now, the list isn't just randomly selected and completely subjective. There's actually a specific calculated algorhythm used to determine the list. Five different - highly scientific - categories were used to compile the list:

(1) Impact. The beat instantly makes you want to start rhyming. Any emcee knows what I'm talking about. Some beats just make you want to start spitting. They call your name. You can't deny it it's power. It's like an attractive woman - you are powerless. Let's call it the "Flow Factor"

(2) Simplicity vs. Complexity. The beat has to be dope enough to nod your head, but at the same time it has to be simple enough to not over power the emcee. The bestest freestyle beats are slighly repetive in nature, not enough to drive you crazy, but enough to let the emcee shine.

(3) Recognition. A true freestyle beat has to be one that everyone knows and recognizes. As soon as it drops, people go crazy. When people are familiar with the beat, have your job is done. They will be more inclined to listen and connect to the music. You can have the illest beat in the world, but if nobody knows it, it takes away from the performance.

(4) Not too specific. The flip side is to #3, is that the beat cannot be too unique to the original artist. Some beats instantly instill visions of another emcee, and no matter how sick the track is, you can't help but here that emcee on the beat. It just wont work for other cats to try to rock it. For instance, Da Rockwilder beat is so bananas, but every time it starts i can only hear Meth saying, "Microphone Checka, swinging sword lecture..."

nahmean?

(5) Last but mos definitely not least, The Ugh Factor. Like Master P said, "Make 'em say 'Ughhhh'". This is how many times the beat makes you say "Ugn" when it's playing. You know what I'm talking about. When a nasty beat drops, I make the stink face and starting saying "Ugh" like Biggie Smalls when he's about to start rhyming. How many times do you make the "damn, something smells like shit fact" while listening to the song. And by the way, that's a good thing. The stinkier the face, the better the beat.

Using the 5 categories, list was compiled. Yes, there's some subjectivity, but I also know what I'm talking about. One thing to remember, this is not a BEST beat of all time list. Some of your favorite beats might appear on this list, but this is specific to freestyling. Like I said before, some beats are too unique to their owners, and therefore wont make the list. A dope freestyle beat has to be usable by everyone, and not catered to a specific artist.

With out further ado, let's get it on. And yes, it was nearly impossible narrowing this down to only 10 beats. It's like asking someone to name their top 10 songs, movies, or blowjobs.


10. "Triumph" - Wu-Tang Clan

RZA production at it's finest: killer strings, banging drums, and nice change ups. This is one of the few Wu-Tang beats that almost anyone can rock. All the other ones are strictly catered to the Wu.

9. "Breathe" - Fabulous

Just Blaze produced this banger. The break-neck pace and urgency created by the sample chopping just begs you to start spitting. One of the best produced beats in the past few years.

8. "Like Woah" - Black Rob

Yes, Bad Boy made the countdown (Take that, take that, take that). The street anthem "Like Woah" was pretty much the first and last time we heard from Black Rob. But this banging beat has a contagious element to it. Even though a first listen, it sounds repetitive as hell, there are actually lots of subtle changes and nuisances in the track. And it's hard as hell. [pause]

7. "Tried By 12" - East Flatbush Project

This is a track we've all heard, but don't all know. Everytime it comes on, the crowd goes nuts. The asian-sounding sample is so unique. It's a relatively mellow track, but gets everyone hyped. It might have been higher on the list, but it loses points in the recognition department.

6. "It's All About the Benjamins" - Puff Daddy

Bad Boy finds their way back onto the list, with Diddy's posse cut about - of all things - money. He had everyone on this song: Biggie, Lil Kim, Styles P, Jada, and Sheik. This beat is so repetitive but is honestly built for freestyles. And who said Puffy never contributed anything good to hip-hop?

5. "Quiet Storm" - Mobb Deep

Jailbird P (better known as Prodigy) and Havoc aka Mobb Deep concoct one of the coldest beats of all time. The sinister bassline and eerie piano make this an undeniable classic. It's the reeeeeeal.

4. "A Milli" - Lil Wayne

The newest member of the group, and quite possible the most used played out freestyle beat of all time. Everybody and their grandmother jumped on this track, from Chris Brown to Jay-z to Will Smith. By itself, it's one of the most annoying beats of all time. With someone freestyling over it, it's the number 4 beat of all time. Funny how that works.

3. "Grindin" - Clipse

Quite possibly one of the simplest beats of all time turned into one of the most infectious. The Neptunes were ahead of their time when they created this song using only 5 sounds. Keep it simple, stupid. This song rates high in all 5 categories, but leaves a little to be desired because it lacks a true melody.

2. "Shook Ones Pt. II" - Mobb Deep

What more can you really say about this beat? It's one of the best hip-hop tracks of all time. Emimen ripped it in 8 Mile. Everyone knows it. It never gets old. The melody is so hypnotic, it puts you in a euphoric headnod trance. A true hip-hop gem.

1. "Who Shot Ya?" - The Notorious BIG

And the number one freestyle beat of all time...The Notorious B.I.G. 's “Who Shot Ya” - separate the weak from the ob-sa-lete, hard to creep them brooklyn streets.

That songs just make you want to catch wreck. The cascading piano sample from David Porter, the thumping drums, the eerie vocal sample. This beat was built to spit to. Yes, B.I.G. killed it, and it's hard to top his performance. But anybody would song good over this beat. That's the essence right there.


So there you have it. I have a few honorable mentions who couldn't make the final list:

Dr Dre - "Still D.R.E."
Biggie - "Kick In The Door"
Snoop Dogg - "Drop It Like It's Hot"
Lil Wayne - "Go DJ"
Gangstarr - "Mass Appeal"
M.O.P. - "Ante Up"
Jay-Z - "Dead Presidents"
KRS-ONE - "Step Into A World"
Above the Law - "Black Superman"
The Luniz - "I Got 5 On It"