[VIDEO] Idle Warship - "Back Snake Moan"

I posted the mp3 version of this a week or so ago, and now Idle Warship has provided accompanying visuals to tie it all together. I love when that happens.

Props to Tunji.

Diz Gibran Interview with C'est La Vie.

Diz is one of the FCC's favorite artists and stay reppin' the crew, so we always show him L-O-V-E. Check out the interview he did with C'est La Vie where he talks about his beginnings and future projects. What he doesn't know his he going to be collaborating with me very shortly too, haha. He'll find out soon enough.

Westcoast Wednesday.

Souls of Mischief - "93 Til Infinity"

You already know...

Jay-Z To Perform at Obama's Inauguration?

Rumors are circulating that Jigga Man is in talks with Team Obama to grace the stage and bless the mic with a performance at Barack Obama's Presidential Inauguration on January 20th, 2009. Hold up. This is epic. No seriously, a rapstar performing at a Presidential Inauguration? Think about that. Did you ever think you would read a sentence like that? If this goes down, Barack Obama will officially be the coolest muthafucker on the face of the planet.

Look, I'm not the biggest jay-Z fan, but I do like his music and appreciate his next-level talent. But this goes beyond just being a fan. The simple fact that Obama would ask Hov to perform shows how in tune with the people our future president really is. He could have asked Bruce Springstein or the Rolling Stones or some other typical legendary performer, but he stays true to himself and despite the possible backlash, he rolls with Jay-Z. This would be a first for hip-hop and a first for the country, and I believe a microcosm of things to come under his tenure in the White House. Obama thinks differently and sees the big picture. He just gets it. Bottom line. This needs to happen. Yes We Can.

[NEW] Joe Budden (ft. The Game) - "The Future"

East meets West on this one as the Game helps Jump Off Joe. The beat is aiight, but I'm not really into the hook. I can't tell if they were trying to make a club track, a love song, or what... but I was excepting something COMPLETELY different.

DOWNLOAD: Joe Budden (ft. The Game) - "The Future"

Link courtesy of eskay.

Kanye on Late Night w/ Conan O'Brien.

Conan is one of the funniest dudes on TV. Kanye is one of the weirdest. After watching this interview, and seeing all his recent ones from Kanye. I get the feeling that this dude is a real introvert. He's one of those artists who doesn't know how to interact with people because he's been doing his own thing for his whole life. He grew up with a single mother and no brothers and sisters, and so he's always looking for attention from someone. That's always why he acts out. The Attention. It's classic "only child" syndrome. Looks like I just cracked this case wide open. I always knew I should have been a psychologist.

Ok, enough of the psycho babble, below in his uninspiring performance of "Heartless" on Conan's show. I don't know if he's sick, depressed, or just too cool for Conan, but he really mailed this one in..his voice sounds awful behind the repair of auto-tune.

Daily Dopeness: Mo Money, Mo Murder.

This was my shit. I still consider AZ one of the most slept on emcees, and this album is a heater. His style is so smooth and effortless as he flips words in such a uniquely dope way. My favorite track from this album is not "Sugar Hill" but "Mo Money, Mo Murder." Nas and AZ tell a cinematic tale of the New York crime-filled lifestyle, over a beautifully laced, heavy string-filled beat. Listening to these cats makes me feel like I'm part of an epic movie, and they are providing the soundtrack.

DOWNLOAD: AZ (ft. Nas) - "Mo Money, Mo Murder (Homicide)

Until tomorrow..

Jay-Z on the Angie Martinez Show.

Jay is fairly insightful, but Angie needs to step her interview game up. It's only her first show, so we'll let it slide. But she was starting to annoy me.

[NEW] Common ft. Kanye - "Punch Drunk Love"

Here goes a brand new joint from Common's upcoming album, Universal Mind Control. This one features Kanye West on the hook and was produced by The Neptunes. It's a little different, and I still can't tell what I think about this yet. But the movie is better than the song.

DOWNLOAD: Common ft. Kanye - "Punch Drunk Love"


Props to the dopehouse for this one.

[VIDEO] Evidence - "Solitary Confinement" (ft. Krondon)

Evidence heads to the desert for his latest video. This song is off his latest album, The Layover EP, which is in store right now and is my current rotation. I swear there isn't a track on there that I'm not feeling. It's pretty bangerish, so I would recommend you cop that if you haven't already.

The Notorious B.I.G. - "Warning" (Live)

From the upcoming documentary, Biggie Smalls: Rap Phenomenon, due out January 27. Biggie Smalls is the illest.

Artist of the Week: Charles Hamilton.

Who is Charles Hamilton? Well, if you asked him, he might describe himself as a musician, producer, songwriter, lyricist, psycho, hippie, and genius. If you glanced at his myspace page, you might describe him as a unique individual with a healthy obession for Sonic the Hedgehog and the color pink. XXL magazine has pegged him as one of the top freshman of year and someone to keep your eye on. Call him what you want, but make sure you know the name. This kid (he's only 20) has been making a splash on the internet, dropping song after song after mixtape after mixtape with a swiftness. You can't stumble on your favorite blogsite without seeing a link to download one of his latest projects. It is all part of a master plan that he calls "The Hamiltonization Process." We had a chance to catch up with him to talk about his mentality behind the music, his unique sound, and of course, what's the deal with Sonic The Hedgehog?



And coincidentally, the same day Charles was named HHO's Artist of the Week, he also dropped another mixtape today with DJ Skee called Intervention. Looks like it's his lucky day. So if you're unfamiliar with this dude, now is your time to get in the know. Hit the link after the cover and download away. It's all good, it's free.



DOWNLOAD: Charles Hamilton - "Intervention" Mixtape.

FCC presents: CONVINCED - 2 for 1 Tuesdays.

You already know what it is...Convinced is back with his 2 weekly tracks. "Vince stays on his hustle, and with a work ethic like this, he's bound to blow up. Both songs are produced by J-Trax. Peace to Convinced who I finally met the other night...

DOWNLOAD: Convinced - "Build You Up" (Prod. By J-Trax)
DOWNLOAD: Convinced - "It's Back Now" (Prod. By J-Trax)

The Death of Auto-Tune.

This is the funniest shit I've heard in months. Roger Riley and Teddy Troutman put together a CD with the intent of killing auto-tune. That's right, it's about goddamn time. Your favorite hip-hop classics get an auto-tune make over and it makes you want to kill someone (Kanye). Click on a couple of songs to get a preview...and then let's forget this ever happened.

DOWNLOAD ALBUM HERE.

1. Heartbreak Intro
2. Buck Em Down
3. Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Can See
4. Ante Up
5. Breathe And Stop
6. Elevators
7. Nothin’ But A G Thang
8. One More Chance
9. Electric Relaxation
10. Shook Ones
11. Simon Says
12. You Got Me

adidas Originals House Party.

Here's a new commercial for adidas Originals. It kinda reminds me of the party I was at this weekend, esp when David Beckham showed up. It was way better than Kid N' Play's house party.

[VIDEO] Busta Rhymes - "I Got Bass"

Weird song. Weirder video.

Raekwon x Akomplice x Tradition Release Party.

The Chef drops by Tradition in Thousand Oaks to perform and get down at the release party for his new collabo shirt with streetwear brand Akomplice. Act like you know.

[VIDEO] Illa J - "R U Listenin" & "We Here"

The first two videos from Illa J, off his album Yancey Boys. Both tracks were produced by you know who...Mr. J Dilla. In fact, the whole album was.

Slum Village - "Drop The Drums" (Demo)

This is fresh. T3 from Slum Village (R.I.P. Dilla) recently started his own blog and dropped this rare gem on the people featuring MC BReed (R.I.P.). This is a demo cut from Slum when they were still developing their sound, circa 1990. It has a pretty heavy Black Sheep feel to me. I say they came a long way...

DOWNLOAD: Slum Village - "Drop The Drums" (Demo)

Fresh Coast Collective Presents Tassho Pearce: The Leak (Week 4)

This week's leak from Tassho features 3 other prominent MCs also hailing from the city of Honolulu, inclding Slo-Mo (Fortilive) Mushmouf (Fortilive) and Omega Cix. Nothing but razor sharp lyricism on this track. Stop sleeping.

DOWNLOAD: Week 4: Tasho Pearce - "WMD"

Courtesy of KNOWxONE.

[VIDEO] Jake One ft. Brother Ali & Freeway - The Truth

This one is dope. Jake One's album, White Van Music, in in stores now. One of the best parts of the album was how Jake teamed up emcees who you wouldn't think would rock on the same track, but it works so well. For instance, the Roc's Freeway and Brother Ali from the Rhymesayers couldn't be more on the opposite ends of the spectrum. But that's the beauty of the song. It's blends so perfectly...

R.I.P. MC Breed.

Damn. Michigan rapper, MC Breed, passed away over the weekend. He was 37. Details are still hazy, but they think the cause of death is related to kidney failure. Although Breed never received very much success in terms of record sales, he was definitely well respected and created an undeniable classic with "Ain't No Future In Yo Frontin." That song will live on forever.

In tribute, here's his video he did with 2Pac back in 1993 (and one of my favorite songs that year). Who would have thought that 15 years later, both emcees would be deceased. Crazy.


MC Breed (ft. 2Pac) - "Gotta Get Mine"

Kanye West - "Heartless" (Live @ the AMA's)

Kanye Tudda gets down live at the American Music Awards. His new album, 808s and Heartbreak is in stores today.

[NEW] Evidence (ft. Alchemist) - "So Fresh"

This song has me open and feeling so good right now. I can't stop listening to it, so I thought I would pass it along to you. This will be my weekend anthem.

"As long as the beat knocks, I feel no stress" (c) Evidence. I love you Grandma.

DOWNLOAD: Evidence (ft. Alchemist) - "So Fresh"

Make sure you cop Evidence's The Layover EP this Tuesday. It's crack. Have a great weekend.

FCC Fridays.

Let's check in with what's popping around the Fresh Coast Collective, shall we? Because 4 blogs are better than 1. You should be checking these spots on the regular, but because you're probably lazy, here is your weekly roundup.

Eazee x Melo KAN present the Vault Series.

Pac Div & The Cool Kids backstage in Las Vegas.

Step your shoe game up with new drops from Nike.






Introducing G.O.O.D. Music’s Mr. Hudson

Download DJ Neil Armstrong's Mixtape, Return To D-Day

Step into the lab with 6th Sense.






This is where you should be on Friday night.

The Alchemist and Evidence interview with DJ Hyphen.

Cop Diz Gibran's first mixtape from 2005, Spin City: Vol. 1

[VIDEO] Keelay & Zaire ft. Blu, Fortilive & Nino Moschella - "The Times"

This joint is sick. The video just premiered today on MTVu. Keelay & Zaire are 2 up and coming producers who just released their Riding High EP. Their shit is fire. If you don't believe me, the check for yourself...But when have I ever steered you wrong?

DOWNLOAD: Keelay & Zaire ft. Blu, Fortilive & Nino Moschella - "The Times"

[BONUS] DOWNLOAD: Keelay & Zaire feat. Tunji - "Addicts For Real"

Common Is For The Children.

Common talks to a classroom full of kids in Augusta, Georgia and preaches the importance of staying in school, believing in your dreams, and being true to yourself. He also kicks a verse from the very first song he every wrote, back when he was 12. I can't believe he remembers the lyrics. I don't even remember what I did last week.

But for real, this is a beautiful thing. I'm glad artists like Common are trying to help the youth because in all honesty, sometimes kids will look up more to rappers than their teachers. Too many rappers spread the wrong message. You know how you are.

The Roots Survive Tour Bus Crash.

The Legendary Roots crew were involved in a double-decker tour bus crash, in which the bus flipped completely upside down. The accident occurred while the group was en route to a stop on the Glow in the Dark Tour in Paris. Nobody was seriously injured, and everyone seems to be in good spirits since the crash. ?uestlove even went as far as joking about the incident througha Twitter post on his blog, ""Just wanna be the first celeb to twit... from an ambulance." Questo went on to desscribe the incident:

"In reality the crash was all of about 7 seconds...but to do a 360 on the highway and end up ramped up (the van that crashed into ours was UNDER our double decker bus) in the air....is....well...a frigging miracle."

"My first thought was not move a fucking inch," he continued in the e-mail. "I always had fear that we would fall off a cliff while in high mountain traveling like Denver or Switzerland. I couldn't tell where gravity began and ended."

"... just wanna let everyone know that we are happy to be alive. and not in that tv cliche way....but man......that was divine intervention. we are so grateful for this outcome."

This song is in honor of them...as they continue, to rock the mic

DOWNLOAD: The Roots - "Proceed"

88-Keys Takes Over Hip Hop Official.

We hand the mic over to 88-Keys at his record release party at the Standard Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. He walks around the party talking to the people about his new album, "The Death of Adam" and the power of the va-jay-jay. Ladies, you know what I'm talking about...

Westcoast Wednesday.

N.W.A. - "Always Into Something"

[NEW] GLC (Ft. Kanye West) - "Big Screen"

I honestly don't know too much about this GLC fellow, but I'm pretty familiar with the other guy. I know he's from Chicago. I know this song is dope. What else do you know need to know?

DOWNLOAD: GLC (Ft. Kanye West) - "Big Screen"

Link courtesy of illroots.

Big Boi on Chelsea Lately.

Big Boi sits down on a couch next to Chelsea Handler to talk about his appearance on Law and Order: SVU and his upcoming new album(s). White woman and rappers = always a crowd pleasing combination.

[NEW] Ludacris - "M.V.P." (prod by DJ Premier)

Luda teams up with the legendary DJ Premier for this track off his upcoming album, Theater Of The Mind. The album hits stores Monday, Nov 24th and I'm actually excited about this one. I'll admit, I'm not the biggest Luda fan - never have been. But this album is going to be different. He seems really focused and has collaborated with some super dope producers this time around, so I think his sound will be more diverse. Shout out to KNOWxONE for the track.

DOWNLOAD: Ludacris - "M.V.P." (prod by DJ Premier)

Below, check out the behind the scenes footage of Preemo and Luda in the studio.

[VIDEO] Q-Tip - "Renaissance Rap"

New video from the real Tip (sorry T.I.) from the song "Renaissance Rap" which is actually not it's own song, but the second part of the song "Move" on the album. Why he did that, I have no idea, but regardless the song is dope. The video directed by Rik Cordero and I like how they incorporate the album cover into the vid...you'll see what I mean.

FCC EXCLUSIVE: "FCC Fastbreak" feat. Convinced, El Prez, Three 1 Zero, Chris Focus and C-San

Exclusive! New Shit!! CLUE...Clue...clue!!!


Sorry I had to get my DJ Clue on real quick. But yo, check this out. This is some new hotness right here. Some very talented LA cats got together to bless this track for the FCC. This is our new theme song. Our announcement to the world. The FCC (Fresh Coast Collective) is a collection of like-minded blog sites that push the newest and freshest content from the Left side of this great country. Whether it's new music, fashion, parties, good eats, whatever...you can find it on one of these 4 blogs. We do this for you. Me, I specialize in the classic and freshest hip-hop music. So it's only fitting that I present "FCC Fastbreak" featuring of Fab 5 of L.A.'s hardest working and highest flying emcees: Convinced, El Prez, Three 1 Zero, Chris Focus, and C-San.

DOWNLOAD: "FCC Fastbreak" feat. Convinced, El Prez, Three 1 Zero, Chris Focus and C-San

Hip Hop Official / Rock The Bells Charity Auction

Listen up, this is important. Hip Hop Official and Guerilla Union are teaming up for a great cause. We are holding an online auction to raise money for charity, with all proceeds going to the American Diabetes Association in the name of Phife Dawg and J Dilla. There are some some amazing items up for bids, including a Duck Down Records prize pack, signed kicks from Wale and Supernatural, and the grand daddy of them all: (2) HHO and Rock The Bells Limited Edition skateboard decks signed by every artist at Rock The Bells Los Angeles. If you atteneded the Rock The Bells show in Los Angeles, then you probably saw these decks making their rounds. Signatures include all the members from A Tribe Called Quest, De La Soul, Pharcyde, Black Eyed Peas, Red and Meth, Ghost and Rae, Murs, DJ Quik, 9th Wonder, and yes even Nas.

The auction starts on Dec 1st and closes Dec 15th. For more info and a complete list of items up for auction, go to www.hiphopofficial.com or www.guerillaunion.com/auction


Rock The Bells Hip Hop Official Limited Edition Skate Deck

Big Boi on Law & Order: SVU

He plays a rapper. Big stretch. I wonder how long it took him to get into character. Here's a clip from, the full episode airs tonight on NBC.

[NEW] The Alchemist - "Therapy" (ft. Evidence, Blu, and Kid CuDi)

The Alchemist links up with a who's who of up and coming rhymesayers for this new joint off his upcoming, The Cookbook EP. In fact, it's so upcoming that it's out today on iTunes. It's six songs and will only cost you $3.99. That's $0.66 a song, you math whizzes.

DOWNLOAD: The Alchemist - "Therapy" (ft. Evidence, Blu, and Kid CuDi)

Diz Gibran Takes Over.

The homie Diz Gibran is guest blogging over fellow FCC spot: Knowxone's Business. Go over there and check it out, he's posting some of his music, thoughts, and what have you. He'll even have some exclusive music lined up for us real soon.

FCC presents: CONVINCED - 2 for 1 Tuesdays

It's Tuesday, so that means Convinced is back on his grind. Here are two more joints from his vault that he's dropping for the people. Both songs are produced by J Trax.

The first song, “A Fork In A Road” is a song that I did last year and just tucked it away. The other song “High Ambitions” is a song that I recorded back in 2006 after I appeared on zombieRADIO, which is the “radio show” im talking about in the 3rd verse. Check em out.

DOWNLOAD: Convinced - "A Fork In The Road"
DOWNLOAD: Convinced - "High Ambitions"

[NEW] Idle Warship (Talib Kweli & Res) - "Black Snake Moan"

This song is dirty. Talib and Res link up for another Idle Warship track. Did I mention this song is dirty?

DOWNLOAD: Idle Warship - "Black Snake Moan"

[VIDEO] Evidence - "Don't Hate" (ft. Defari)

Evidence - "Don't Hate" ft. Defari

Another dope video from Evidence. He's been dropping a new one every damn week, and I've been feeling every single one. Again he proves you can make a dope video with a very low budget. Dumb rappers need teaching.

This one features Defari and the song will appear on Ev's new project, The Layover EP, which drops Nov 25th.

[VIDEO] Johnson & Jonson - "Up All Night'

New video from Johnson & Jonson (Blu and Mainframe) from their self titled album. If you'r'e not familiar with Blu, you need to learn something. This cat is one of the illest rhymes spitters in the game right now.

[VIDEO] Coldplay & Jay-Z - "Lost"

Apparently this is from an EP that these two are working on called Prospekt’s March. But this album can also be found on the Viva La Hova mixtape, which is incredible dope and yours if you click here.

[BONUS] DOWNLOAD: Coldplay & Jay-Z - "Lost"

[VIDEO] Mikkey Halsted - "Liquor Store"

This one runs deep. Mikkey reps Chicago. Get his latest mixtape here.

Daily Dopeness: Come Clean.

A classic underground track. Dj Premier concocted one of the most unique and gutter sounding beats of all time on this one, and Jeru busts his "freaky, freaky...freaky, freaky flow" all over this one. When I first heard this joint I was completely amazed. This beat was perfect for Jeru. I couldn't hear anybody else over this track, so you wack upcoming rappers don't try to touch this one.

A crazy side note, I just noticed the album cover has an image of the World Trade Centers on fire. I never really noticed that before. But I guess it didn't have the same impact back in 1993. It's definitely eerie seeing that now, after knowing what went down on 9/11. Did Jeru The Damaja predict the destruction of the World Trade Center? Not even Nostradamus or Ms. Cleo saw that one coming.

DOWNLOAD: Jeru The Damaja - "Come Clean"

Nas - Please Listen to my Demo.

Peep this mixtape of rare and unreleased gems from the God Son. Props to Ges from the FCC for the link.

DOWNLOAD HERE.

01. Intro
02. 17 Years Old Freestyle
03. Freestyle (1st Time On Stretch & Bobbito Show)
04. Freestyle (2nd Time On Stretch & Bobbito Show)
05. Another Day In The Projects (Demo To NY State Of Mind)
06. I’m A Villain (Demo To NY State Of Mind)
07. Freestyle (3rd Time On Stretch & Bobbito Show)
08. Freestyle (Wake Up Show W/ Sway & Tech)
09. Memory Lane (Primo’s Demo Mix)
10. Represent (Primo’s Demo Mix)
11. NaS Will Prevail (Large Professor Demo Mix “It Ain’t Hard To Tell”)
12. Who’s World Is This (Rough Draft DJ Hollywood Session)
13. Life’s A Bitch (ft. AZ) (Rough Draft Studio Session)
14. Life Is Like A Dice Game (Unreleased)
15. True Dialect (Unreleased)
16. Understanding (ft. Biz Markie & AZ) (Unreleased)
17. Wake Up Show Promo
18. Freestyle In The UK
19. Deja Vu (Demo Which Became Verbal Intercourse)
20. #1 With A Bullet (Demo)
21. On The Real (ft. Cormega) (Unreleased Marly Marl Original)
22. Don’t Hate Me Now (Unreleased)
23. Life’s Gone Low (Unreleased)
24. Tales From The Hood (Unreleased)
25. New York (Unreleased Primo’s Hard 2 Earn Mix)
26. 2nd Coming (Unreleased)
27. Untitled (Unreleased Primo Track)
28. High (Unreleased)
29. NaS Will Rock (Unreleased Pete Rock Track)
30. Surviving The Times

[VIDEO] Alchemist - "Lose Your Life" (ft. Snoop, Jadakiss, and Pusha T)

Interesting video to say the least. It's like Scooby Doo meets an acid trip. But the gang does mange to bust Prodigy out of jail, so it's got that going for it.

[NEW] Ludacris (ft. Jay-Z & Nas)- "I Do It For Hip-Hop"

I met this girl when I was six years, and what I loved so much she had so much soul. If you know me, then you know that since I was 6 years young, I've been a hardcore hip-hop head. If you don't know me, then I just told you. I've been infatuated with the music, fashion, art, and lifestyle of this so-called "fad" for as long as I can remember, 1985 to be exact. Yeah, I'm an old head. But young enough to still be in touch. Hip-hop been the common thread through my existence or will continue to be til I'm in my final resting spot. This music and culture has influenced me just as much as anything else that's been an integral part of my life. I do it for Hip- Hop. This song has me open right now, I'm feeling good. Not even Monday can keep me down.

DOWNLOAD: Ludacris (ft. Jay-Z & Nas)- "I Do It For Hip-Hop"

Link is courtesy of eskay but that's how he gets down.

Quik Is The Name.

Hip Hop Official and Guerilla Union presents an interview with DJ Quik. He talks about working with Murs and the art of mixing. This dude has his finger prints on so much good music, you can't front on his legacy. Quik stays underrated. Not anymore.

[NEW] Evidence - "Half Off" (ft. U-N-I)

Venice's finest, Evidence teams up with U-N-I for this new track off his upcoming, The Layover EP. Ev's been on his grind lately, and the quality of the recent music he's been putting out has been top notch. Don't sleep..it's the cousin of death.

DOWNLOAD: Evidence - "Half Off" (ft. U-N-I)

Daily Dopeness: Da Rockwilder.

I'm tired as fuck. I drove down to San Diego last night for the Red and Meth show, and to interview the M-E-T-H-O-D Man. I stayed until 2 AM and had to drive back to LA, so I didn't get home until 4 AM. But it was worth it, the show was bananas. Red and Mef killed it as usual, and put on a great show. San Diego represented too. I've never seen so many white surfer kids rapping along to classic hip-hop songs. If you haven't seen these cats live, what are you doing with your life? They shut this place down when this sound came on. No surprise, it's such a crowd rocker.

DOWNLOAD: Method Man & Redman - "Da Rockwilder"

Until tomorrow...

Honey Collection 2nd Anniversary Party

Check out the fresh party featuring Raekwon, Doug E. Fresh, Slick Rick, MC Lyte and more. The Eighties were definitely in effect.

[VIDEO] Black Milk - "Give The Drummer Some"

This is the first video from Black Milk's latest album, Tronic, which is banging. And in stores now. Get it.

[VIDEO] Pac Div, Dom Kennedy, Carter - "Everybody Knows Us"

Damn, that was mad quick. i just posted the VIMBY behind the scenes video, and now the actually video is up. That's efficiency.

[BONUS] DOWNLOAD: Pac Div, Dom Kennedy, Carter - "Everybody Knows Us"

Mp3 courtesy of VIMBY.

Vote For Hip Hop Official.

Since so many of you went out and voted for Obama, I know you are in that voting spirit. Let's keep it going. I usually don't post this self promotional type stuff, but I'm proud of this. Hip Hop Official was nominated for the Mobile Excellence People's Choice Award. Voting started today, and the awards are being held Dec 8th so I need to step my tuxedo game up. Do me a favor and vote for the homie. And then tell your friends to vote for the homie. If I win, I'll shout you out in my acceptance speech, and then continue to keep bringing you that dope Hip-Hop flavor. Thank you.

Go here to vote. Click the box for "GoTV Networks (Hip Hop Official)"

We on an Award Tour...

Pac Div x Dom Kennedy X Carter X The Hundreds

VIMBY - Everyone Knows Us: The Making Of

Pacific Division, Carter, and Dom Kennedy link up with The Hundreds to produce "Everyone Knows Us." VIMBY goes behind the scenes of the music video. This song sounds pretty dope, and you know The Hundreds always comes with the dope gear. Peace to Mario from VIMBY.

FCC World Premiere: Convinced & Tunji - "Goodbye Never"

The homie E-Dub just came through with some new goodness. Another FCC premiere for that ass. This one is so amazing. Tunji and Convinced connected and cooked this up this concoction morning. They do more before 7 AM than you do all day. The hypnotoc beat was produced by Dahi, and it sounds so beautiful. If you don't listen to this one you are dumb, and I can't help you anymore.

DOWNLOAD: Convinced & Tunji - "Goodbye Never"

DJ J-Smoke - Live At The BBQ [Mixtape]

Take a trip down memory lane with me. Back to the Golden Age of hip-hop where the music was fun and heartfelt. You know what I'm talking about: 1992-1996. Ges put me up on this new mixtape from DJ J-Smoke where he took it back. This tape has it all. Tribe, Das EFX, Redman, NWA, Main Source, The Liks, Digable Planets, Cypress Hill. It's essentially a time capsule of some of the best music this culture has to offer. And it's yours, right here, right now. Throw some ribs on the BBQ and bump this in your backyard while sipping an ice cold one.

DOWNLOAD DJ J-Smoke - Live At The BBQ [Mixtape]

01. P-Love / DJ J-Smoke - Intro
02. Das EFX - They Want EFX
03. Redman - Time 4 Sum Akshun
04. Lords Of The Underground - Funky Child
05. A Tribe Called Quest - Check The Rhyme
06. Kurious - Uptown Shit
07. Run DMC - Down With The Kings Remix (ft. Pete Rock)
08. MC Serch - Back To The Grill (ft. NaS)
09. Main Source - Live At The BBQ (NaS Verse)
10. Alkaholics - Likwit
11. Alkaholics - Make Room
12. DJ J-Smoke - Dude Makes The Music Mix
13. Cypress Hill - Hand On The Pump
14. House Of Pain - Jump Around (Pete Rock Remix)
15. Souls Of Mischief - ‘93 Til Infinity
16. Digable Planets - Rebirth Of Slick
17. Snoop Dogg - Nuthin But A G Thang (ft. Dr. Dre)
18. DJ Daddy Dog - Where I Be At (Routine)
19. Gravediggaz - Constant Elevation
20. Sadat X - You Can’t Front (ft. Diamond D)
21. Craig Mack - Flava In Ya Ear Remix (ft. Biggie)
22. Casual - Me O Mi
23. DJ J-Smoke x Shyheim - On And On (Routine)
24. Strictly Roots - Beg No Friends (ft. Grand Puba & Fat Joe)
25. King Just - Warriors Drum
26. Organized Konfusion - Fudge Pudge
27. DJ J-Smoke x V/A - Heal Yourself
28. DJ J-Smoke - Uptown Party Bounce Mix
29. Zhiggie - Rakin’ In The Dough Remix
30. Del The Funky Homosapien - Mistadobalina
31. Original Flavor - Can I Get Open (ft. Jay-Z)
32. Young Black Teenagers - Tap The Bottle
33. Nice & Smooth - Sometimes I Rhyme Slow
34. Main Source - Fakin’ The Funk
35. LL Cool J - The Boomin’ System
36. Fu-Schnickens - True Fu Schnick
37. NWA - Express Yourself Remix

Suge Knights Sues Kanye West.

Bwhahahahahaha. I'm sorry. This is too funny. But what fall from grace has Suge Knight had. Apparently Suge Knight is suing Kanye West, blaming him for getting shot at Yeezy's pre-MTV VMA party in 2005. Suge claims that Kanye is responsible because security at the party allowed a man to smuggle in a gun, and then this said man proceeded to shoot Suge in the leg.

Knight alleges that he had to undergo months of physical therapy, suffered permanent impairment in his mobility, and ended up with significant medical bills - which included the cost of a private jet to transport him from Miami to Los Angeles. The lawsuit also claims that Suge lost a 15-carat, $135,000 diamond stud earring during the incident, which he includes in the suit as "damages for the loss of use and enjoyment of the earring." Hahahaha, enjoyment of the earring? Is this dude serious? The man who was once the most feared man in the music industry is claiming to be a victim of the heartbroken, auto-tune singing Kanye West? Incredible. I've seen it all.

Karma is a bitch. This is what he gets for killing Biggie and Pac.

Daily Dopeness: Protect Ya Neck.

"I never, ever call and ask you to play somethin, right?"
"Yeah"
"You know what I wanna hear right?"
"Whatchu wanna hear?
"I wanna hear that Wu-Tang joint"
"Wu-Tang again?"
"Ahh yeah, again and again!"

The song that started it all off. I remember it like it was yesterday. Shout out to the dude who worked at Wherehouse Music and convinced me to by 36 Chambers when I was 14 years old. i took this album home and was blown away when I first heard it. I was convinced that Wu-Tang Clan was nothing to fuck wit. There shit was light years ahead of its time, and it still sounds as good today as the first time I heard it. Most importantly. Wu-Tang has always given sound advice, from "diversify your bonds" to "you best protect your neck." Thank you, Wu-Tang.

This one's for Buddy.

LISTEN: Wu-Tang Clan - "Protect Ya Neck"

Until tomorrow...

Zion I - The Search and Seizure Mixtape.

In anticipation for their upcoming album, Zion I present their new mixtape, The Search and Seizure. The concept is dope. The mixtape is a throwback, and actually features 2 sides like tapes did. On the first side, Zion I "Searches" out, and "Seizes" their favorite classic hip hop tracks, and remixes them with their own twist. The B-side has them duo focusing more on an indie/electro sound. With features ranging from Talib Kweli to Santogold, it definitely has a little something for everyone. Zion I's new album, The Take Over, hits stores January 29th. This should hold you over until then...

DOWNLOAD HERE.

[VIDEO] Ill BIll - "My Uncle"

Here's the animated video for the song Bill dedicated to his Uncle Howie. Respect.

[NEW] Kanye West ft. Lil Wayne - "Tell Everybody That You Know"

Speaking of Kanye, here's another track off his upcoming album. It features Lil Wayne and auto-tune. And some singing. The link is courtesy of eskay and the rest of the NMC, so I better not get in trouble for posting this. The internet police have been on my ass lately. Damn, don't kill the messenger. Stop the violence. Yes we can.

Kanye West ft. Lil Wayne - "Tell Everybody That You Know"

Kanye's 808's and Heartbreak Commercial.

Yes, this is a commercial for an album. His 808's and Heartbreak drops Nov 24. I'm going to either love to hate this album, or hate to love it. I haven't decided.

Below you can listen to the conference call that Kanye did with the media to talk about the new album. I was actually present during this call, but Yeezy wasn't taking questions. So I hung up.

LISTEN: Kanye West Def jam Conference Call.

Daily Dopeness: Elevators.

So last night I was a wearing a sweatshirt with this chorus on it. You know it, we all know it...

Me & You,
Yo Momma &
Yo Cousin Too.

This girl asked me what my sweatshirt meant. I had to walk away. This song is just too classic to not know where it's from and what it is. And what It is dope. And now it's your daily dose of dopeness.

DOWNLOAD: Outkast - "Elevators"

Until tomorrow...

Artist of the Week: Yak Ballz

A native of Queens, NY and an emcee of Persian decent, Yak Ballz is an independent artist who's been making noise for quite some time as one of the original members of the Weathermen. He recently dropped his second solo album, Scifentology II, which is available on FloSpot Records. We recently has a chance to catch up with Yak to talk about the album and the importance of independent music. After the interview, check out a couple track from Mr. Ballz...

Yak Ballz - Artist of the Week Interview


DOWNLOAD: Yak Ballz - "Out of Range"
DOWNLOAD: Yak Ballz - "ChaChing (Clap Your Hands)"

J. Cole - The Warmup Sampler

More new music from Eazee. He's running shit today. J. Cole is an up and coming emcee out of North Carolina, but currently residing in NYC. He has a new mixtape called The Warmup dropping soon, so he decided to throw together a little something to get the world ready for that. This is his sampler. Consider this a warm up to his Warmup, or something like that.

DOWNLOAD HERE.

[NEW] Dom Kennedy - "Miss Donna Karan"

My FCC partner in crime Eazee jsut some newness on me. This track is from the upcoming proejct, LAUSD presents: Curly Tops and Nauitca Jackets. Dom Kennedy gets his grown man on while Polyester laces the hook. This is some smooth shit to ride to in the whip with your chick. Yep.

DOWNLOAD: Dom Kennedy ft. Polyester - "Miss Donna Karan"

[VIDEO] Evidence - "So Fresh" (ft. Alchemist)

I'm loving this song right now. The title fits so perfectly. This song is mad fresh. Some super skunky, laid back Cali shit. This song appears on Evidence's upcoming project, The Layover EP.

Ev and Al do their thing in Venice, and actually throw down some skate tricks. i didn't know they had it in them. I've been trying to master a kickflip for years.

[VIDEO] 88 Keys - "True Feelings"

Finally! A music video from 88-Keys new album! By the way, his brand new album, The Death of Adam, is dope and by coincidence it came out today. You should make sure you own that very soon. It was executive produced by Kanye West, so you know if it's good enough for his stubborn ears it should be good enough for yours.

I attended his album release party last night at the Standard in downtown Los Angeles, so make sure to check back for that. Keys basically took over HHO and ran the show for the evening. Peace to U-N-I, El Prez, Sean G, and J*Davey who were all in (drunken) attendance to support Keys.

FCC presents: CONVINCED - 2 for 1 Tuesdays

Since Tuesday is the day all the new music drops, Convinced is back on his grind and has decided to offer some jewels from his vault. Every Tuesday he's going to release 2 songs from his collection. This cat must have made more tracks than 2Pac. Without further adieu, here goes the drop for Week 1.

DOWNLOAD: Convinced - "Cold Steel" (over the Dilla produced track from Phat Kat)
DOWNLOAD: Convinced - "By Any Means Necessary" (ft. Knyse)

[NEW] Kanye West - "Amazin" (ft. Young Jeezy)

This just landed in my inbox, courtesy the BOBO. This is another one from Kanye's upcoming album, 808's and Heartbreak, which just got pushed up a day to Monday November 24th. Why? To sell more albums during the Thanksgiving holidays, that's why.

DOWNLOAD: Kanye West - "Amazin" (ft. Young Jeezy)

[VIDEO] El Prez (ft. DNEZ) - "It Is What It Is"

The latest video from Inglewood's own, El Prez. This song appears on his latest album, The Daily Show. Shout out to El Prez who I ran into last night at 88-Keys album release party. Get at me about that interview, homie!

FCC's in the building...it is what it is.

[VIDEO] Jadakiss - "Who Run This"

Jada takes a walk through his new video, directed by Rik Cordero. Who else?

Daily Dopeness: Mass Appeal.

One of the most hypnotic Primo beats of all time. I can't get enough of this song. What I love most about this is how Primo took a little two second sample from an instrumental jazz guitar track and flipped it into this legendary beat. He's one of the greatest of all time.

This is classic Gangstarr from their album, Hard to Earn, which was released in the greatest year in hip-hop history: 1994. Enjoy.

DOWNLOAD: Gangstarr - "Mass Appeal"

Until tomorrow...

Q-Tip's AOL 16 Bars Freestyle

Watch more 16 Bars videos on AOL Video

I remember back in the day when AOL was just email and chat rooms filled with teenagers and perverts. My, how far they've come. Q-Tip goes off the dome for AOL's 16 Bars performance. His new album, The Renaissance, is in stores now and definitely worth copping.

The Further Adventures Of Von Pea.

Von Pea from the rap group Tanya Morgan (yes, that's a rap group - not a soul singer) dropped his all new mixtape tape titled The Further Adventures of Von Pea. He spits wicked over Madlib instrumentals from his alubm, The Further Adventures of Lord Quas. You see the connection. Anyways, Von does his thing, and you know the beats are banging, so it's a wise decision to download this one. But you already knew that.

DOWNLOAD HERE.

01. Introduction
02. Players!
03. Web 2009
04. All Day Hell (f/ Donwill)
05. So Supreme
06. The Bubble (f/ Che Grand)
07. Peagreenery
08. Mmain Jawn
09. Starstruck / WHAT?
10. Options (The Great Escape)
11. Love (f/ Median & Elucid)
12. One Man Circus (co-starring Ilyas)

Talib Kweli Freestyle.

On A-List Radio with DJ Enuff. This is actual freestyle, imagine that.

Mos Def Likes Amoeba.

Mos Def hits up the legendary Ameoba Music to talk about his new album, and actually purchase a CD or twelve. He also talks about vibrations, dynamics, and some other metaphysical mumbo-jumbo. The ending is classic. I think he might be on drugs. Or a martian. Seriously.

[VIDEO] J Dilla - "Airworks"

New visuals for Dilla's song "Airworks" from his Donuts album. Rest In Peace. If you're a fan of Dilla, I got something pretty dope coming to you in the next couple of weeks so stayed for that. You'll know it when you see it.

Illa J Interview - Part 2

Here is Part 2 of our interview with Illa J. He talks about his brother's influence on him and hip-hop, as well as his own mission with his music. If you missed Part 1, go here. Shout out to Fat Beats for letting us shoot the interview there.

Bambu - "Crooks & Rooks" [LIVE]

For those of you not familiar with Bambu, it's time to take notice. He was the HHO Artist of the Week, and an ex-gangbanger turned community activist. He spreads a dope message about teaching peace in the hood and uplifting the the community. Here he performs his first single off his latest album "Exact Change." This song is such a banger. Enjoy

[NEW] Jay-Z - "History"

Jay-Z's song dedicated to Barack Obama and that historic night of Nov 4th, 2008. I'm still amazed when I think back on that glorious day.

Rumor has it that this will appear on Jigga's upcoming album, The Blueprint 3. Another rumor as it that this was produced by Kanye West. There was a radio rip of this floating around but this the CD quality dirty version. I didn't feel like posting that other Mickey Mouse version. I always hold out for the good stuff.

DOWNLOAD: Jay-Z - "History"

Q-Tip on Letterman.

I rocked out to this last night. Q-Tip performs "Move" form his new album, The Renaissance. What's interesting about this performance is I have the same shirt. Well, maybe that's not that interesting.

[VIDEO] Kanye West - "Heartless"

New video from one of the only new Kanye songs that I'm feeling. I think it's a leak, so it might get pulled down from YouTube at any minute. I don't even know if this is the official video, or even the final version, but it's pretty dope. I love when videos match or enhance the song, and this one does just that. To his credit, Kanye always delivers memorable videos. You can't knock his creativity. But feel free to.

...and if you can't get enough Kanye West in your life, below he talks about his new album and why he's singing, but still making "guy music." His words, not mine. Oh yeah, he says it's not hip-hop either, but a whole new genre he created called Pop Art. Shrugs.

Daily Dopeness: Bucktown.

Home of the original gun clappaz.

Smif-N-Wessun a.k.a. Cocoa Bravaz a.ka. Smif-N-Wessun (again) were my shit in the mid 90's. Shit, I still fux with Buckshot and the whole Duck Down team. Their debut album, Dah Shinin, was an instant classic with countless dope tracks. Tek and Steele were the epitome of that low down, dirty, grimey, nappy headed, bubble coat wearing, Timbaland boot stomping, mean mugging, pistol packing, New York street rap. I loved it.

DOWNLOAD: Smif-N-Wessun - "Bucktown"

Until tomorrow...

Illa J Interview - Part 1

In this first of a 2 part series, Illa J talks about his musical roots that stem from his family bloodline, including his brother, the late great J Dilla. Like his brother, Illa J is a triple threat, excelling as a talented emcee, singer, and producer. He also talks about his brand new album which dropped Nov 4th, Yancey Boys, in which he sings and spits over classic Jay Dee beats from his days on Delicious Vinyl back in 1995-1997. I just copped the album, and you should too.

Part 2 drops tomorrow.

[VIDEO] Gnarls Barkley - "Mystery Man"

Another dope one from one of the best music videoers in the game. This is off their upcoming Who’s Gonna Save My Soul EP, which is dropping November 11th. The EP will include also include four versions of the title track: The original demo version, the album version, the instrumental, and a live version.

Check out gnarlsbarkley.com to download all the versions now.

[NEW] Jay Electronica - "Exhibit A" (Transformations) [FINAL]

I posted this track earlier, but it wasn't the final version. Just Blaze was nice enough to mix and master it, and throw the final version on his blog. Now I present it to you.

This one is produced by Just Blaze and appears on a compilation album called Fresh Cuts Vol. 3 (Music By Guitar Center Employees). The more I hear from Jay Electronica, the more i like him. His abstract wordplay and imagery is top notch. I can tell he's starting to find his voice and is taking full advantage. This is a must listen, the lyrics are sharper than a box of knives.

"I swam down Shit's Creek and came up clean,
With a new lease on life like Andy Dufresne."

DOWNLOAD: Jay Electronica - "Exhibit A" (Transformations)(prod. Just Blaze)