Malice and Push-T stay Grindin. The Thorton Brothers talk about their upcoming projects including the Re-Up Gang album, and the new Clipse album droppin this fall.
[BONUS] DOWNLOAD: Clipse Present: Re-Up Gang: "My Life Is the Shit"
Thursday, July 31
[INTERVIEW] Clipse.
Mickey Factz - "Going Nowhere" & "Dolla" (The Leak 32)
This week Mickey asked the fans for the ideas for the Leak #32. He picked 2 lucky winners:
"Going Nowhere" comes from Kyle Connaro:
Tell the story from the point of view of a record (Vinyl) trying to get love in the huge era of CD’s (90’s) and how difficult it is for you to do so and the struggles of being quality but overlooked. Then transition to the same concept with CD’s and mp3s and downloads…
"Dolla" comes from Ricardo Santiago:
I would like the next concept to be …. You as a dollar bill and what goes on as you pass hands… From drug dealers all the way to the big dogs in congress. Just an Idea…
2 songs in one, well done.
DOWNLOAD: Mickey Factz - "Going Nowhere" & "Dolla" (The Leak 32)
[VIDEO] Big Boi (ft. Mary J. Blige) - "Something's Gotta Give"
Off Big Boi's new album, Sir Luscious Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dusty, coming soon.
PREVIOUSLY: Big Boi Interview
Wednesday, July 30
We Be to Rap, What Key Be To Lock.
Fuck a simile and a metaphor, Digable Planets stepped their grammar game up and dropped analogies. A Key is to Lock, as Digable Planets is to Rap. Brilliant. I wonder what Butterfly scored on his SAT? And why the hell was his name Butterfly? Granted, the whole crew had insect names, but he couldn't think of a doper insect that a butterfly? I know the Beatles and Flea were taken, but what about June Bug or Dragonfly? And nobody questioned his choice? I would have said something. Homies don't homies have wack ass nicknames. That might be one of the Top 10 worst rap names of all time. Seriously.
Anyway, this is an old school video of Digable Planets performing "Rebirth of Slick" on In Living Color. Digable was, is, and will always be one of my favorite rap groups, and in my opinion always overlooked. They were so smooth with it, and the Jazz-influenced vibes they provided were so cool. I miss the days when being cool was actually cool.
This performance only features the first 2 verses f the song. Doodle Bug was cut off when Fox rudely cut away to commercial. Damn you Fox, fucking up my shit again! Nas was right about you, you no good good-for-nuthins. Watch your back, O'Reilly.
Video courtesy of MOD.
These Are the Breaks.
(Our weekly look back at the original songs your favorite Hip-Hop records sampled)
THIS WEEK: Liquid Liquid.
This week we're taking a look at one of the freshest and most notable bass samples in hip-hop. The samples comes from an obscure New York post-punk band called Liquid Liquid. Although their catalogue is small and records were printed at a very low quantity., their impact in the clubs has been huge. Their music was essentially groove based, influenced by the many different sources, funk, dub reggae of the 1970s, and primarily punk in its do it yourself garage approach. In 1983, they released a track called "Cavern" that would be the inspiration for one of the most classic of classic hip hop songs. In fact, "Cavern" is so dope, I've actually heard it played in hip-hop and dance clubs, and I actually prefer it to it's sampled hip-hop counterpart.
LISTEN: Liquid Liquid - "Cavern"
Instantaneously, the sample is recognizable as Grandmaster Flash's "White Lines." Instead of stealing the loop from the actual record, the Sugar Hill house band replayed groove for their version.
Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five Ft. Melle Mel - White Lines (Don't Don't Do It)
Mobb Deep went on sample it for their bassline in" Quiet Storm," but they slowed it waaaaaay down. To this day, this song is sicker than your average.
Mobb Deep - "Quiet Storm"
The Reeeeeeeal.
[VIDEO] Consequence - "Disperse" (ft. GLC & Really Doe"
New video from Consequence with mad cameos from your favorite rap stars. If the beat sounds familar, that's because it is. CRU used the same sample for their song "Just Another Case." And I think I like their version better, that track is so classic to me.
"Phil Collins in the background, Su-su-sudio."
By the way, Cru's album, Da Dirty 30, is a under-appreciated gem and one of my favorites East Coast joints from that era (1997-200). It stays in my rotation. If you don't have it, and I strongly suggest you cop it with a quickness.
Sorry Consequence, I didn't mean to turn this post into a Cru hype-fest, but your beat made me do it.
Nas Rocks.
Nasir throws down a nasty solo on Rock Band as he rocks out to "Tom Sawyer" by Rush. This is all goes down backstage at The Colbert Report.
FUN FACT: The Rush song was sampled for our show intro to "On The Run" w/ Shani Kulture.
Raekwon Interview with Karmloop TV - Part 2
This is Part 2 of this interview right here.
Chef talks about the current state of music. Basically, he's not feeling the current talent pool. I can't say that I blame him.
Big Boi interview w/ DJ Envy.
Big Boi aka Daddy Fat Sacks aka Sir Lucious Leftfoot talks to DJ Envy on Sirius about his upcoming solo album, the new Outkast album (!), and the beef with Killer Mike (?).
[BONUS] DOWNLOAD: Big Boi (feat. Mary J. Blige) - "Something's Got To Give"
Tuesday, July 29
Peanut Butter Wolf - Area Codes Mix (The 888 Podcast).
Peanut Butter Wolf is at the forefront of the L.A. music scene. As the CEO of Stones Throw Records, he has his fingerprints on some of the illest music, parties, and trends surrounding the urban subculture of the Mecca of Cool (aka Los Angeles).
This Stones Throw Podcast is the precursor to PB Wolf's 888 Tour.
In Los Angeles, from Aug. 1st til Aug 8th, Peanut Butter Wolf will play 8 straight nights, and 8 different venues, playing 8 different genres - never repeating the same song. He's done this the last three years, first the 666 Tour, and then the 777 Tour last year. These are undeniably some of the best parties in Los Angeles. The twist this year is that Wolf will be VJ'ing the parties - that is, spinning music videos. Let's call this the warmup act: a mixtape of old school rapp from beyond the 5 boroughs, all from different Area Codes. See if your hood is represented...
DOWNLOAD HERE.
Track List:
FUTURE - The Prelude (Westville, NJ, 609)
MR FRESH & MASTER TMD - Ghetto Life (Oakland, CA, 510)
TWO FRESH - Mr Tron (Cerritos, CA, 562)
MEMBERS ONLY CREW - Be Your Own Man (Stanford, CA, 650)
B-ICE COOL - Messengers Of Fact (Richmond, VA, 804)
THE SWINGING MC - Yodelay-Dee-Hooo (Philly, PA, 215)
HARDCORE INC - Talkin’ In Rhythm (Pitts, PA, 412)
MC ROD - Do This (Houston, TX, 602)
MC HERC - I Am Doing It (Pahokee, FL, 561)
24-7 POSSE - Shoot Ta Thrill (Jacksonville, FL, 904)
MC E ROCK - Lyrical Grafitti (Fort Worth, TX, 214)
EMCEE QUALIFIED Q D - Is Def (Birmingham, AL, 205)
SPIKE VST - Let’s Do It (Miami, FL, 305)
DJ BABY T & DEVIOUS D - The Beat Is Funky (New Orleans, LA, 504)
LYRICAL PROPHECY - You Can’t Swing This (San Jose, CA, 408)
MD MINK LOVE - I’m The Motivator (Baton Rouge, LA, 504)
AWESOME L - Hellafied Talk (Chicago, ILL, 312)
DADDY D - Motherfussin (Spencer, OK, 405)
GREG D & THE NEW STYLE - It’s Def (Akron, OH, 330)
CRUSH FORCE - Me & My Levis (SD, CA, 619)
ELITE FORCE - Romance And A Chance (Detroit, MI, 313)
DETERMINATION - Hope & Not That Dope (Fort Worth, TX, 817)
BREWTOWN HIP HOP - N-Sane (Milwakee, WI, 414)
MC PADLOCK - Gotsa Come Up (Pomona, CA, 909)
NATIVE BLACK - Little Ditty (Boston, MA, 617)
AZIATIC CHECK - Out What I’m Sayin (ATL, GA, 404)
JUNIOR CARDONE & CHRIS CUT - MTS (San Jose, CA, 408)
Redman's New Ride.
"This is the '09, going on the '0-10"
Hopefully this gigantic thing fits in his garage at his crib, Casa De Red.
UPDATE: This is from the video shoot for Redman's "I Run My Block" freestyle off the upcoming Ready Or Not mixtape.
Opio - "Original Lyricist"
Hieroglyphics rhyme sayer, Opio, drops the latest single from his album, Vulture's Wisdom: Vol 1 (in stores now). The video is dope. Shot as Oakland Coliseum, as Opio is on his way to a Raider game as he's rhyming amongst Raider Nation. How can you top that?
I've always been a fan of Hiero & Souls, and Opio proves he can hold his own on the solo tip. His new album is very good, and his smooth flow and wordplay is clever as ever. He's been holding it down for 15 years, and still putting out that classic headnod hip-hop. These cats weren't lying when they said 93 Til Infinity.
DOWNLOAD: Opio - "Original Lyricist"
Upper Playground x adidas Originals Stan Smith: Aesop Rock
Upper Playground and adidas linked up for a collabo and designed a shoe inspired by Aesop Rock.
From Hypebeast:
In Upper Playground’s whirlwind of releases done in collaboration with adidas, this month’s third volume features hip-hop artist Aesop Rock. For Aesop Rock, his design features inspirations lingering from his album of last year, None Shall Pass. The faded green and gold scheme is reminiscent of the album art and maintained on an unmarked upper. Keeping it similar to previous releases, the Aesop Rock Stan Smiths will drop on Thursday, July 31st at Upper Playground flagship stores as well as online at 8:00 am PT at UpperPlayground.com.
Chef Shine Like Marble, Rhyme Remarkable.
Raekwon the Chef on Karmaloop TV, talking about what we all want to hear about, Only Built For Cuban Linx 2
"This is a series album. I don't care if i only sell 2 units, I bet you're gonna like that muthafucker." (c) Raekwon
{smiling)
[NEW] The Knux - "Bang! Bang!"
I was a fan the first time I heard of The Knux, based off the strength of this song. The brothers duo from Hollywood, by way of New Orleans have a fresh sounds, with a classic appeal. This is only the second song I've heard released by them, and it's not as dope as "Cappaccino" but it's a good listen. (How was that for selling it?)
In my very humble, yet highly educated opinion, it has a very "Lyrics Born meets 80's Euro pop rock" feel to it, or something. So if you're into that, you might be into this.
DOWNLOAD: The Knux - "Bang! Bang!"
Tribe Called Quest - Scenario (Unreleased Version)
This is a true gem right here. This is what hip hop affectionados live for. This, my internet friends, is a rare version of one of the first takes on the classic Tribe song, "Scenario"
You'll notice the beat varies a little, and the lineup is also different. It seems that the whole Native Tongues posse jumped on this including De La Soul, Black Sheep, and L.O.N.S. Here's a little back story from DJ Johnny Juice (who worked with L.O.N.S. and PE):
A Tribe Called Quest was doing ‘Scenario’. It was me, Dinco, Busta, Jarobi was there – everybody was in that motherfucker – Dres from Black Sheep was there, both of ‘em, Chris Lighty, Mase and Pos from De La, all them motherfuckers rhymed on ‘Scenario’. Everybody rhymed on it but Q-Tip, and the best motherfucker on that shit was Posdnuos. He fuckin’ destroyed it, and he ain’t even like the beat! And after he finished rhyming, everybody went back and rewrote their rhymes!
DOWNLOAD: Tribe Called Quest (Ft. De La Soul, Black Sheep, and L.O.N.S.) - Scenario (Unreleased Version)
Monday, July 28
Preview: Kanye West and MTV News "Homecoming"
In MTV's “Homecoming” - an hourlong special about Iraq war veterans - Kanye West and an MTV correspondent, Sway Calloway, show up at the homes of three veterans and surprise them with gifts. Kanye and Sway listen to their stories, thank them for their contributions to the country, and then help the vets confront their challenges, including debt and adjusting to civilian life.
Kanye participated despite saying in the fall, after being overlooked at the MTV Video Music Awards, that he would never again appear on the channel.
“Homecoming,” airs tonight at 10.
[VIDEO] Charles Hamilton - "November 10"
Something new from up and coming 19 year old, Charles Hamilton. This kid loves pink headphones and Sonic the Hedgehog. Ah, the 90's babies.
This is song off his Crash Landed mixtape with DJ Skee.
Mixtape: DJ Drama & Ludacris - "The Preview"
DJ Drama and Ludacris deliver this brand new mixtape as a warm up to Luda's upcoming album, Theater Of the Mind. Since Luda - excuse me - Chris Bridges has been doing his acting thing, he's staying with the concept, and his new album is supposed to be "theatrical, conceptual-wise. Every song you hear sounds like a scene from a movie." That explains why this mixtape is called, The Preview, you know like those short things you watch before the movie starts.
DOWNLOAD HERE.
1. And Starring…
2. Still Spittin’
3. DTP Magic (Feat. Willy Northpole)
4. Get Up Get Out (Feat. Block Xchange)
5. So Thoro
6. The Vocalizer
7. Bigg Ass House
8. 2 Kings (Feat. I-20)
9. Politics As Usual
10. Look What I Got (Feat. Playaz Circle)
11. Pinky Shinin’ (Feat. Small World)
12. Sho’Nuff Revisited (Feat. Lil Fate)
13. Ordinary Negroes
14. Busta Rhymes - Throw It Up (Feat. Lil Wayne & Ludacris)
15. LA The DarkMan - Coogi Down (Feat. Willie The Kid)
16. I’m A Dog (Feat. Playaz Circle)
17. Smokin Big Kill (Feat. Shawnna)
18. Stay Together
19. We Ain’t Worried Bout You
20. Roll The Credits
21. Been Puttin On / Secret Song
Artist of the Week: Clinton Sparks
Get familiar. Clinton Sparks does it all: world renown DJ, producer, TV personality. The Boston native has a successful radio show, Smashtime Radio on Sirius. He's produced hit records for Ludacris, Beyonce, Bun B, and Akon. He's also the music correspondent for the E! network's Daily Ten. He also gives a pretty good interview...
Get Familiar.
Friday, July 25
[VIDEO] Tre Hardson (feat Fatlip) - "AyYoMyMan"
Tre Hardson (aka SlimKid3) and Fat Lip, both from Pharcyde fame, team up for this dope ass track. The was originally released on Tre 2002 album, Liberation. This is my new shit as of 5 minutes ago. The video is sick, I'm feeling the neon lights. Directed by Will Copeland & Little Red Robot.
This is a good look for Tre Hardson. Back on the scene, crispy and clean. (c) Black Sheep
Madlib's Motown Mix.
This is so dope -- Don't even ask questions, just download it.
Madlib, the Loop Digga, throws down an hour long mix of classic funk/soul Detroit/Motown music. This is a must have for any beat head, music affectionado, or anybody who's knows what's up.
This was available as a Stones Throw podcast, but here's the mp3 version for you iTunes illiterates.
DOWNLOAD: Mablib's Motown Mix (Stones Throw Podcast)
Elzhi - "Motown 25" & "That's That One" (Live)
As part of our Soundcheck section, Hip Hop Official presents Elzhi Live. He also happens to be our Artist of the Week.
The Detroit wordsmith and Slum Village member drops 2 dope songs for you: "Motown 25" and "That's That One." His debut solo album, The Preface, drops 8/12.
(Little known fact: The shirt El's rockin during the performance is from my homie E-Dub's company, Eighty's Baby.)
[BONUS] DOWNLOAD: Elzhi - "Motown 25" (feat. Royce Da 5-9)
[BONUS] DOWNLOAD: Elzhi - "That's That One" (prod. by Black Milk)
Shawn Jackson.
I've mentioned the name in this space before. Shawn Jackson is one of my favorite up and coming artist in the game right now. He represents Los Angeles, and that fresh, creative, cool ass hip-hop. I'm going to keep mentioning his name until the public takes notice.
He dropped 2 new videos this week.
Shawn Jackson - "Go There With You" (feat. Ty)
Shawn Jackson - "Soopafly" (feat. Ty)
DOWNLOAD: Shawn Jackson - "Go There With You" (feat. Ty)
DOWNLOAD: Shawn Jackson - "Soopafly" (feat. Ty & Kory)
Freestyle Friday.
Sticking with the Wu-Tang theme...because, in all honesty, there's no such thing as too much Wu-Tang.
The RZA/Bobby Digital/Prince Rakeem/The Abbot kicks a freestyle for KISS100 FM.
[NEW] The GZA - "Alphabets"
New GZA!
This is the first single off his upcoming album Pro Tools. This is way tighter than his Curtis diss. Check out the tracklist...
1. Intromental
2. Pencil Feat. Masta Killa & RZA
3. Alphabets
4. Groundbreaking Feat. Justice Kareem
5. 7 Pounds
6. 0% Finance
7. Short Race Feat. Rock Marcy
8. Interlude
9. Paper Plate
10. Columbian Ties Feat. True Master
11. Firehouse Feat. Ka
12. Path of Destruction
13. Cinema Feat. Justice Kareem
14. Intermission (Drive In Movie)
15. Life Is A Movie Feat. RZA & Irfane Khan-Acito (of Outlines)
16. Elastic Audio
Thursday, July 24
Kardinal Offishall Interview
Hip Hop Official caught up with Konvict Music artist Kardinal Offishall at the video shoot for "Set It Off." We talked about his new album, Not 4 Sale, his hit record, "Dangerous" and the challenges of being a Canadian emcee.
Toronto stand up!
[BONUS] DOWNLOAD: Kardinal Offishall (feat. Akon) - "Dangerous"
[BONUS] DOWNLOAD: DJ Jazzy jeff feat. Kardinal Offishall" - "She Was So Fly"
Murs & 9th Wonder - Sweet Lord (Free Download)
Here's the link to the previously mentioned FREE album from Murs and 9th. It doesn't cost a thing, but feel "free" to drop a donation for Murs' election campaign.
DOWNLOAD HERE.
Tracklisting:
1. The Intro
2. Are You Ready?
3. Nina Ross
4. Free
5. And I Love It
6. Pusshhhhhh
7. It’s For Real
8. Marry Me
9. Love the Way
10. Murs Inatra
[NEW] The Game (feat. Lil Wayne) - "My Life"
Ok, there are 2 versions of this song. One has an extra third verse where game talks about Proof (RIP). Evidently, he caught some heat from the first version because people thought he was taking shots at Eminem. So Game went back and took off the final verse for the radio version.
In a statement from The Game:
When I originally wrote the song “My Life” I was trying to think back on events that affected my life and how they changed me. When I first got signed to Aftermath and G-Unit I was exposed to so many different people from Dre to Em to 50 to Proof. I always identified with Proof. We were always cool and he would reach out to me when ever I was going through something I remember when Proof died vividly and now every time I think about going to Detroit I get depressed. That is what I was trying to say in that verse and the more I looked at I realized that people would take it the wrong way…the way they are taking it now that it leaked. So I decided to change it so that this bullshit wouldn’t happen and now it’s happened anyway. For the record, this is not the version on my album, this is not the version that radio will get and this is not the version that I just shot the video to. Furthermore, I apologize to anyone who took this the wrong way as that was never my intention.
Weezy's on both records, but just provides the singing for the hook. Sorry.
DOWNLOAD: The Game (ft. Lil Wayne) - "My Life" (Extended Version)
DOWNLOAD: The Game (ft. Lil Wayne) - "My Life" (Radio version w/ no DJ)
Redman - "I Run My Block" Freestyle.
Ah yeah, nothing like some good Reggie Noble to get your day started right. Nobody beats the Red when it comes to classic TV/movie references. Fuck Doc spits over Hova's "Show Me What You Got" instrumental.
DOWNLOAD: Redman - "I Run My Block" Freestyle.
Wednesday, July 23
Greatest Fight Scene Ever.
Bruce Lee? Jackie Chan? Chuck Norris? Jet Li? Nope. The greatest fight scene of all time goes to Captain James T. Kirk. Whatchu know about that?
This is intense. Hold on to your butts. (c) Sam Jackson
[NEW] Raekwon - "Blood Missiles"
New music from Raekwon titled "Blood Missiles." I don't know what that title means, but i love it. Sound like a dope 80's action movie starring Louis Gossett, Jr. and Judd Nelson.
Word on the streets blogs is that Only Built For Cuban Linx 2 might actually be maybe even possibly dropping in January 2009. Let's see about that. As far as I'm concerned the race is on between Rae's OBFCL2 and Dre's Detox (which Dre says is coming in December). Winner gets my $13 bucks. Loser gets downloaded.
DOWNLOAD: Raekwon - "Blood Missiles"
[VIDEO] Gnarls Barkley - "Who's Gonna Save My Soul"
Hahaha, This is dope. Who hasn't been there? I love the commentary on relationships.
These Are the Breaks: Nas
Since Nas is all the rage these days, I decided to use that momentum to my advantage and feature him in this weeks section of... (cue the horns)... "These Are The Breaks"
This week: Nas
We are going to take a look at three different Nas tracks, from three different albums. Let's start from where you should always start - the beginning. When you first popped in that Illmatic tape, and after listening to the album intro to get you hyped, the first song that hit your ears was "N.Y. State Of Mind", a gritty and dark, bass-driven track produced by DJ Premier. it was a hell of an introduction to the Queensbridge emcee. So, where did Primo find that legendary bass loop?
From Philadelphia Jazz musician Joe Chambers. Joe was trained as a drummer, but was also well versed as a pianist [pause] and composer. He also scored music for movies, including Spike Lee's Mo Better Blues. The "N.Y. State Of Mind" sample comes from Joe Chamber's song, "Mind Rain" which appeared on his 1978 album Double Exposure.
The sample comes in at 1:09
Joe Chamber - "Mind Rain"
Next up, was Nas' sophomore album, It Was Written which is his best selling album to date. It was a departure from his first album, as it featured bigger production and had a much more mainstream sound. This album birthed the Nas Escobar persona as he developed a mafioso style (which eventually led to The Firm fiasco). The album's second single, the Poke and Tone produced "Street Dreams" featured a slick bassline that was also used in 2Pac's "All Eyez On Me."
The loop was borrowed from R&B singer Linda Clifford's song "Never Gonna Stop (Loving You)." Although she had some minor hits, this song didn't make much noise except for the classic hip-hop songs that followed. The groove is so dope.
Linda Clifford - "Never Gonna Stop"
Last comes a song from a time when nobody really cared about Nas, aka The Nastradamus years. He released 2 albums in the same year, the second being Nastradamus which included the title track "Nastradamus." Talk about the Department of Redundancy Department. Anyways, the song borrowed from the legendary funky soul band The J.B.'s (who were James Brown's band which included funk icons like Bootsy Collins and Bobby Byrd). Along with James Brown, the J.B.'s are one of the most sampled acts of all time, and by far one of the funkiest. Their 1975 song "(It's Not the Express) It's the J.B.'s Monaurail" was the record Nas flipped for his track "Nastradamus." The funk groove and horn arrangements on this record are so sick...it's by far one of my favorite J.B. songs.
The sample comes in at 2:35, but just enjoy the funky ride.
The J.B.'s - "It's the JB's Monaurail"
[BONUS] DOWNLOAD: Linda Clifford - "Never Gonna Stop (Loving You)"
[BONUS] DOWNLOAD: The J.B.'s - "It's the J.B.'s Monaurail"
Inverse on VIMBY.
Performance and interview from the Cali duo, Inverse. If you're not up on these dudes, stop sleepin.
Good. Honest. Creative. Hip-hop. Word.
Nike Air Force 1 + Questlove = Air Questo 1
Nike linked up with Roots member/drummer/producer/sneakerhead Questlove to bring you a brand new exclusive AF1 that drops Aug 1st and will some in 2 different colorways: The regular version coming with a red toe box and one that will be a little bit more specialer.
?uests says:
the twist is the shoes will be sealed.
why?
because the actual shoes are the shoes on the bottom of this photo.
25 lucky people across the US will open their boxes to receive a “golden ticket”—and unlike mr wonka i aint talkin a piece of paper.
the shoes will be golden (the one on the right)—them shits are the ones to kill for.
i cant make the “official” announcement on what you will get if you are the lucky ones but lemme just say im gonna stand in line for my own damn shoe.
The kicks with the gold toe box and special limited edition versions, and are extremely rare. Will you be lucky enough to cop the golden pair? You might wanna act like Nelly and cop 2 purrrrrr.
Mickey Factz - "Sublime" (The Leak 31)
Last week, I introduced some of you to Mickey Factz, and admitted to how late I was in acknowledging his talent. I also promised to bring you new music from him every week. Consider this a promise fulfilled.
This week in his series, The Leak, Mickey drops a track called "Sublime"
I'll let him describe it:
“Sublimes go undetected untill you look 4 em”
PRECIZE. A subliminal message is a message embedded in another medium, designed to pass below the limits of perception. PRECIZE. These messages are unrecognizable but in certain situations can affect the subconscious. PRECIZE.
So The Leak #31 was created by 2 emailers. I combined both to make something crazy. Congrats to Kyle Conarro and Ricardo Santiago. I thank both of you.
DOWNLOAD: Mickey Factz - "Sublime" (produced by PRECIZE) (The Leak 31)
Tuesday, July 22
New Releases: July 22nd
Its new music Tuesday, so lets get you caught up on what's dropping dropped today. I know I'm mad late on this, but work has been crazier than Mike Tyson off is medication . As always, I've included a sample download to wet your whistle. Remember, this is just a taste... Go out and support (purchase) good music.
Skillz - "The Million Dollar Backpack"
First up, the industry's most famous ghostwriter, Skillz, drops his third solo album, The Million Dollar Backpack. Well known for crazy sick freestyle ability and his year end “Rap Up”, the Virginia emcee calls on some of the biggest names in the game to lend a helping hand on his album, including Common, Talib Kweli, and Black Thought.
BONUS: Skillz - "Hold Tight" (feat. Black Thought)
Black Wall Street - "Welcome to Wall Street: Let the Hazing Begin"
For those who can't wait until the Game drops his upcoming album, L.A.X., have no fear. You can get a taste test on the new offering from Black Wall Street. The album, featuring the likes of the Game, Clyde Carson, Juice, DJ Haze, and Nu Jerzey Devil, is titled Welcome To Wall Street: Let The Hazing Begin.
BONUS: Came (feat. Clyde Carson) - "CA State of Mind" (this song is not on this album, but appears on their latest mixtape, Bang Bang Radio Pt. 1. I couldn't get my hands on any of the new BWS material. Sue me)
Hell Rell - "Black Mask, Black Gloves" 
In case you were feenin for some of that sensational Dip-Set music (and who isn't?), Hell Rell has got you covered. The diplomats member drops his gritty sophomore album Black Mask Black Gloves, bringing that infamous hard-hitting New York street rap. With an album title like that, I'm assuming there's a song about robbery, homicide or a similar, but equally street credible crime. It just better not be some soft misdemeanor shit, like a B & E. Bacon and Egg? No... "Breaking and Entering."
Fuck a fair one, I get mine the fast way...ski mask way. (c) Biggie Smalls.
BONUS: Hell Rell - "Get Ready"
The Cappatilize Project" 
Also dropping today, the 10th member of the Wu-Tang Clan, Cappadonna is back with his album The Cappatalize Project. It's his fourth solo album -- which is more than Raekwon, U-God, Masta Killa, and Inspectah Deck, and this cat was the LAST member to join the Wu. Come on gods, get ya weight up. I don't want to believe Raekwon is lazy. Cappa's album was originally slated as an online release only, but he picked up some distribution so it will be available in stores now as well... so make sure you “cappatalize” on that. See what I did there?
BONUS: Cappaddona - "Tug Dat Ropet"
Reks - "Grey Hairs" 
I'm not going to lie to you, I don't know too much about Reks expect he's from Boston, and his last studio album was released 7 years ago. His first, Along Came teh Chosen, was an underground classic. The highly touted Beantown emcee drops his sophomore album Grey Hairs which features apperances from Reks' crew like Termanology and Krumbsnatcher, but also heavyweights like DJ Premier, Large Professor, and Consequence. This is definite head nod material.
BONUS: Reks - "Big Dreamers" (Lawtown Remix)(feat. Termanology & Krumbsnatcha)
Nas - "Sly Fox" (Live)
Nas performs the Anti-Fox Song at a show promoted by the Fox-owned MySpace. And this Anti-Fox video was uploaded to the Fox-owned YouTube.
That doesn't even make sense.Queens Fox Gets The Money.
Monday, July 21
[VIDEO] Young Jeezy (feat. Kanye West) - "Put On"
Jeezy repping for his city. Kanye repping for the auto-tuner.
"We don't need Jesse...we got Young Jeezy" (c) Nas
[NEW] Clipse Present Re-Up Gang - "Money"
Clever title. I wonder what the song is about. New album on the way from these dudes scheduled for Aug 5th.
DOWNLOAD: Clipse Present Re-Up Gang - "Money"
DMX Arrested...AGAIN. No, Seriously.
I know, I know...this isn't exactly "news" anymore. But it's funny. Even though we've come to expect this sort of thing from X, it never ceases to amaze me.
He was arrested AGAIN on Saturday, bringing his total to 5 times in the past three months. That's impressive. X was arrested at an Arizona hospital after giving a fake name and social security number, in order to avoid paying his $7500 medical bill. He was charged with identity theft and theft of services after he used the fake alias of "Troy Jones" when we all know his government name is Earl Simmons. Its' not known why Earl had to visit the hospital, but it is known that he also has 2 more outstanding warrants for his arrest - so this probably wont be the last time we see his name on a police report. Believe that.
The over/under on his next arrest is Sept 1st. Place your bets now.
[NEW] Santogold - "Get It Up" (feat. M.I.A.)
Fuck what you think, Santogold and M.I.A. are not the same person, do not sound the sound, and do not look the same. But they both know how to rip tracks. Here's some new bengali dopeness from Santogold and M.I.A along with Gorilla Zoe and some elephants. Seriously. The shit is banging. It's produced by Radioclit (yes, that's his real name, and I'm mad I didn't think of it first).
This joint makes me feel like I'm on a gangster safari.
DOWNLOAD: Santogold - "Get It Up" (feat. M.I.A. & Gorilla Zoe)
[VIDEO] Shawn Jackson - "Countdown"
New video from one of my favorite up and coming L.A. cats, Shawn Jackson. Shout out to Tres Records. His solo album, First Of All..., is in stores now. Do yourself a favor, and cop it.
[BONUS] DOWNLOAD: Shawn Jackson - "Countdown"
Behind the Scenes: David Banner Video Shoot.
Check out the "making-the-video" footage from David Banner's new single featuring Lil Wayne, "Shawty Say." David Banner getting his Denzel on, trying to be the next big leading man.
Brought to you by Skee.tv.
Skee has been coming with the ill behind the scenes lately. And we always show him love on this here blogsite.
BONUS: David Banner - "Shawty Say (feat. Lil Wayne)
Murs & 9th Wonder - Sweet Lord (Preview)
Murs and 9th Wonder are dropping a FREE album this Wednesday called Sweet Lord. You already know when those 2 connect, it's always dope music to the ears (See Murs 3;16 + Murray's Revenge), and the third time around should be no different. Pick up the free joint on Wednesday, and then run out and elect Murs For President when his album drops Sept. 30.
I got 4 tracks for you to download, and I'll post the download link for the final version once it's available. This is mos def good summer music.
DOWNLOAD: Murs & 9th Wonder - "The Intro"
DOWNLOAD: Murs & 9th Wonder - "Are You Ready"
DOWNLOAD: Murs & 9th Wonder - "Nina Ross"
DOWNLOAD: Murs & 9th Wonder - "Give Us Free"
This is why the album if free:
If you don't know about Murs, go here.
If you don't know about 9th Wonder, go here.
[NEW] Lil Wayne - "Real Rap"
Just because there isn't enough Weezy music floating around right now.
"I'mma call this one Real Rap...because this rap is real." (c) Lil Wayne
DOWNLOAD: Lil Wayne - "Real Rap"
Artist of the Week: Elzhi
Detroit wordsmith, and one half of Slum Village, Elzhi is our Hip Hop Official Artist of the Week. Elzhi joined Slum Village (who originally consisted of J Dilla, T3, and Baatin) in 2002, after Dilla left the group to pursue his solo career (and Baatin left the group shortly due to health issues). Elzhi is an emcee's emcee. One of the most lyrical cats in the game, his flow and wordplay are top notch. Not too many cats can see him on a lyrical level. He also carries on the Detroit tradition of that gritty soul music that has been flowing out of Motown via artists like J Dilla, Slum Village, Proof, Royce the 5'9, Guilty Simpson, Black Milk, and Phat Kat.
His debut solo album, The Preface, drops next month, so make sure you cop that.
Peep the interview, and peep the free download after that.
DOWNLOAD: Elzhi - Fire (prod. by Black Milk)
DOWNLOAD: Slum Village - Selfish (feat. Kanye West & John Legend) (Produced by Mr. Kanye West)
DOWNLOAD: Slum Village - Reunion (feat. J Dilla) (This is one of my favorite tracks right now. The beat is ree-dic-u-lous.)
Also, we'll have a live performance from Elzhi for you this Friday, so stay tuned for that.
[NEW] Ice Cube - "Get Used To It" (feat. The Game & WC)
New music from Cube's upcoming album, Raw Footage. This one features The Game and WC, who were rumored to be the new Westside Connection.
DOWNLOAD: Ice Cube - "Get Used To It" (feat. The Game & WC)
Mickey Factz + Fresh Daily Interview.
I forgot to post this last week. It happens. It's an interview with Mickey Factz and Fresh Daily from the Brooklyn Hip Hop Festival that went down last week.
These 2 cats are the latest of the new up and comers in the NY music scene. Peep game.
Friday, July 18
[NEW] Lupe Fiasco - "The Commercial"
I was supposed to interview this dude yesterday, but it didn't work out. Instead of posting an in-depth, thought provoking interview, here's a hard-to-find & unreleased Lupe rarity to start your weekend off right. This appeared on a French mixtape and has popped up a couple places, but not in this top of the line, high quality format. Get down on it.
DOWNLOAD: Lupe Fiasco - "The Commercial"
GZA/Genius - "Paper Plate" (50 Cent Dis)
The GZA sharpens his killer flying guillotine and takes aim at Curtis.
Straight from the press release:
His new album, Pro-Tools arops Augeust 19th, and the first leak track, "Paper Plate," finds GZA going at the Vitamin Water mogul, 50 Cent.
With "Paper Plate," GZA is in top form, a true veteran showcasing the incomparable style that has defined witty battle rap for the greater part of a decade.
Spitting 104 bars of straight heat, GZA cuts the legs out from under the G-Unit impresario, reminding us all how sweet beef on wax really sounds. Using metaphor and lyrical imagery (and without employing a single curse word), GZA gives it to us "burnt & crispy."
True heads stand up...The Genius has finally returned.
DOWNLOAD: GZA/Genius - "Paper Plate"
[NEW] J Dilla - "Oxtopus"
I never pass up on new Dilla. Ever.
Word on the streets blogs is this is the last song he jumped on before he passed (R.I.P.), but there's no confirmation on that claim. It was supposed to appear on the Operation Unknown project, but disappeared until J Rocc played it a few months ago. It's Dilla spitting over a very primitive track, similar to "Grindin."
This, my beat digging friends, is super rare. So jump on it while it's here.
DOWNLOAD: J Dilla - "Oxtopus"
Method Man: When Stage Diving Goes Wrong.
Ouch. The homie Meth jumps in the crowd and they neglect to catch him. I've been to a few Wu shows, and Meth always jumps in the crowd, it's his signature move - like Hulk Hogan's Atomic Leg Drop, Michael Jackson's Moonwalk, or R. Kelly pissing on teenagers.
In fact, I was at a Wu show and Meth jumped in the crowd and spit his entire last verse of "M-E-T-H-O-D Man" three feet away from me....I'm surprised he made it this long with out breaking something. You best protect that neck.
Either these British cats:
(a) Have never been to a concert.
(b) Don't like Method Man.
(c) Are scared of flying black people.
(d) Are too stuck up and didn't want to pull a muscle.
Oh well. After a Red Bull and blunt, and he'll be back to normal.
Pharcyde - Runnin' (Philippians Remix)
Here's a fresh new remix of the classic Pharcyde track which appears on the Delicious Vinyl’s RMXXOLOGY album, in stores now. It's dope that they stayed true to the original Dilla-produced track, re-working the original Stan Getz bossanova sample. There's a crazy synthy-Atari-video-game-sounding change at the end, but it kinda works. There are millions of remix versions of the this song, and this one hold up to the best of them - except my favorite, that being Jay Dee's remix.
As a bonus, I'm giving you the mp3 version. Put that in your iPod and smoke it.
DOWNLOAD: Pharcyde - Runnin' (Philippians Remix)
De La Soul / Rock The Bells 2008 Jump-Off.
The Rock The Bells 2008 festival kicks off tomorrow, and we threw this video of De La Soul together to get you ready. The tour will come through smashing a town near you soon, so get in where you fit in. With a lineup that features Nas, Tribe Called Quest, Pharcyde, Rakim, Meth & Red, and De La (just to name a few) it's sure to be the hottest event of the year. Stay tuned to Hip-Hop Official for your exclusive coverage. Chea.
Thursday, July 17
Brooklyn Hip Hop Festival Recap.
Where Brooklyn At! (c) Biggie Smalls
Hip Hop Official was in the house for the 2008 Brooklyn Hip Hop Festival that went down in, well, Brooklyn. KRS-One headlined, and hip-hop vets like DJ Premier, Buckshot, and Keith Murray rocked the stage as well as a bunch of up and coming acts like Mickey Factz, Blu & Exile, and Fresh Daily.
It was a beautiful day full of sunshine, fresh music and positive vibes. Spread love, it's the Brooklyn way.
Common Interview w/ Tim Westwood (Continued).
Part 2.
Part 3.
Peep the rest of the interview with Tim Westwood.
Part 1 is here.
[NEW] Wale (feat. Young Chris) - "Whole Time"
DMV representer, and one of my favorite new up and coming emcees, Wale drops another gem on the people.
DOWNLOAD: Wale (feat. Young Chris) - "Whole Time"
Courtesy of elitaste.com
Wednesday, July 16
These Are The Breaks.
(Our weekly look back at the original songs your favorite Hip-Hop records sampled)
THIS WEEK: James Brown.
A new week, a new break. It's no surprise that the Godfather of Soul (R.I.P.) has made his way into this section. In fact, James Brown is the most sampled artist in music history, as he's been flipped almost 1000 different times (and counting). His song "Funky Drummer" is the most sampled song of all time, and the drum break at the end of the song has been used over 100 times - this all before sampling was illegal.
"I made 7 whole albums with no James Brown,
and even though I love his music, I just can't stand...
the way they used it all up and didn't pay the man." (c) Too Short.
But we're going to dig a little deeper here, and take a look at one of his lesser known samples. His song, "Blind Man Can See It" was originally from the soundtrack to the blaxploitation flick, Black Caesar starring Shaft himself - Fred Williamson. The movie was a remake of the 1931 film Little Caesar, and though it wasn't a commercial success it featured a notable musical score by James Brown (with heavy input from his bandleader Fred Wesley), which happened to be his first experience for writing music for film. The soundtrack is dope, through and through, and features one of James' most bad-ass songs "The Boss."
"Blind Man Can See It" is a superfunky instrumental track that keeps a fairly simple funk melody throughout the beginning of the song, and then at 0:45 seconds in - that's where the magic happens. At that point, the beat drops...and there, my friends is where we find today's sample.
LISTEN: James Brown - "Blind Man Can See It"
Most of you will riggitty-recognize it instantly, as it's that classic biggity-bum rush music from the niggity-nappy headed duo striggity-straight from the sewer.
Das EFX - "They Want EFX"
[NEW] T.I. - "Whatever You Like"
This is the new single off his upcoming album, Paper Trail, which drops Sept 2nd. Above is the abstract cover art for aforementioned album. It features a conceptual drawing of the potent MC made of scraps of paper. Get it? Paper Trail, scraps of paper!?! Brilliant.
"We didn't want to just do a typical cover, especially for my sixth album," T.I. told us via e-mail. "I wanted to try something a little more different. The illustration for Paper Trail pays an obvious homage to my rekindled affinity for writing my lyrics down as well as displays my commitment to keep my art slanted towards the abstract."
What he said. But I actually like it. It's different. I mean, he could have half-assed it and put himself in a Bentley or in front of a table full of assault rifles, or something.
As far as the song, it's pretty alright. I'm not the biggest Tip fan, and when the song starts its kinda sounds like "What You Know" but it actually grew on me as the song went on. I mean, it's not going to make my iTunes Essential playlist or anything, but it's got potential.
DOWNLOAD: T.I. - "Whatever You Like"
Westcoast Wednesday.
Too $hort - "In The Trunk"
This is one of my favorite Short songs of all time, which is saying something because that brother has a serious catalog. It's from his relatively unpopular album, Shorty the Pimp, which always gets looked over by his classics like Born To Mack, Life Is...Too Short, Cocktails, and Gettin' It.
This song has one of the fonkiest basslines in Oakland history, and Short raps for damn near 4 minutes straight. No hook, no gimmicks, no apologies.
"It's on..."
Unfortunately this is the radio edit, so you don't get to hear Short use his favorite word.
Common Interview w/ Tim Westwood.
Westwood is hilarious. British accents + Hip Hop slang = Pure Entertainment.
Comm talks about making movies and his new album. I'm glad he touches on the name Invincible Summer and the fact that it's dropping in the Fall.
"Scheduling is a bitch."
BONUS: Common - "The Light (Remix) (Produced by K-Salaam & Beatnick)
Mickey Factz.
Ok, I'm not gonna front. I slept on Mickey Factz. I thought he was just another flavor-of-the-month internet rapper who got over night notoriety strictly from bloggers. Boy, was I wrong. Granted, he did start to gain his exposure from linking up with MySpace phenomenons the Cool Kids, along with his Leak series on the blogs, but this dude has some serious talent. If you're already up on him, then you know what I'm talking about and you can stop reading. But if you were like me and have being sleeping on him like a Serta, then its time to wake up and smell the hip-hop.
Born in the Bronx, Mickey is from that new crop of Golden Age throwbacks that have been invading the scene lately (Cool Kids, Pac Div, U-N-I, Fresh Daily, Wale, etc)...but don't get it twisted, he's no hipster rapper capitalizing on the current 80's and 90's revival. When asked if he'll be bringing New York hip-hop back he simply replies, "Why bring it back, when I can move it forward." That's what I'm talking about.
Every week he puts out a brand new song as part of his Leak. He's up to number 30 (which means 30 weeks), and I'm just now just starting to post them. Yes, I know, I need my late pass. But best believe I'll be posting his weekly Leak from now until eternity. While I'm getting caught up, let's get you caught up...
DOWNLOAD: Mickey Factz - "We Ain't" (feat Tanya Morgan) (The Leak #30)
DOWNLOAD: Mickey Factz - "Keys Of Life" (feat Robin Thicke) (The Leak #30)
DOWNLOAD: Mickey Factz - "Africa" (feat. D'Angelo) (The Leak #29)
DOWNLOAD: Mickey Factz - "Keep Moving" (feat. Fresh Daily) (The Leak #28)
DOWNLOAD: Mickey Factz - "Incredible" (The Leak #27)
That aughtta do it.
Honey Dips: Marilyn
Meet Marilyn. She likes dancing, her butt, and LL Cool J. Sounds like a winning combination to me.
Murs EPK
Murs is better than your favorite rapper. Check out his EPK (Electronic Press Kit) that included interviews clips, live performances, and random appearances. But on the real, Murs is a dope emcee in every sense of the word. He deserves some shine...and he gets it here.
Tuesday, July 15
Game Replaces Mack 10 In Westside Connection?
HipHopDX is reporting that Ice Cube has revealed to his inner-circle that famed trio Westside Connection will return after several years of hiatus. Yay-eeyah. Although none of this has been confirmed by anyone, they also report that estranged member Mack 10 would be replaced by Compton rapper The Game.
This could be dope. I always believed Mack 10 was the weakest link in the Connect Gang. I mean Ice Cube is OG. WC has mad flow, made up his own words and he can C-Walk. Mack 10 was just kinda there, he didn't really bring anything to the table. He had one good solo song. Oh, and this one...but DPG really made it dope, not him.
The Game appears with Ice Cube and WC on Cube's upcoming album Raw Footage on the song "Get Used To It," which could be some foreshadowing to the new group. Ice Cube is also on The Game's L.A.X. album, on the song "State of Emergency." So they definitely have a feel for making music together.
Stay tuned to see how this plays out.
Nas Performs Live @ Alife.
Nas linked up with Alife and threw an album release party today in NY which they cleverly dubbed "Alife State of Mind." Nasty Nas held it down with a little backyard boogie performance of some of his classic joints. It's a celebration, bitches.
More videos below. We got you covered like tablecloths.
Kanye West's Vision of an Absolut Word.
Another installment from the Be Kanye ad campaign brought to you by the good people who get you drunk by making Absolut vodka.
In an Absolut world, Kanye rides in a taxi?
Artist of the Week: Dirt Nasty & Andre Legacy
Two thirds of the Dyslexic Speedreaders (along with Mickey Avalon), Dirt Nasty and Andre Legacy bring that raw, un-cut, Hollywood glam rap that slaps you across your face with a fat dick (c) Snoop.
With ghetto-fresh beats and gnarly-over-the-top rhymes, these dudes don't pull any punches and they also don't take themselves too seriously. Thankfully, they tackle the the real issues plaguing America like internet porn, the cocaine epidemic, Hollywood nightlife, and attempting to suck their own dicks. Do not try this at home.
After the video, download 2 songs from the crew.
DOWNLOAD: Dirt Nasty - "1980"
DOWNLOAD: Mickey Avalon, Andre Legacy, and Dirt Nasty - "My Dick"
Exclusive: Farnsworth Bentley - "Everybody" (feat. Kanye & Andre 3000)
Saw this exclusive new track at Kanye's. It's kinda funky, and Andre delivers another memorable ill verse.
Bentley's dancing>Andre's dancing>Kanye's dancing
[VIDEO] N.E.R.D. - "Spazz"
This is the second video from their album Seeing Sounds. You might recognize the song from the latest Zune ads with all the record covers. Yeah, that one.
Monday, July 14
Snoop Is All About The Cash.
Snoop Dogg is out for the cash...Johnny Cash, that is. Off the strength of his country music inspired song “My Medicine” with Willie Nelson, the Doggfather is set to appear on a Johnny Cash remix album due out in October. Snoop will remake the Man In Black's classic song “I Walk The Line” which will be co-produced by Teddy Riley and DJ Quik. Snoop said that if you take the time to listen, country music is very similar to rap. Well yeah, with the exception of the fascination with material wealth, strippers, bottles of Chrys, gun clapping, and drug trafficking, they're exactly the same, Snoop.
Legendary producer Pete Rock will also remix Cash's "Folsom Prison Blues" for the upcoming remix album. It'll be interesting to see how he pulls that one off.
Puffy is Poison.
Ladies, gentlemen, and lowlifes...me may have a first. This may actually be the first time in the history of history that a comedian and hip-hop super megastar have ever beefed over YouTube. This is monumental. Like JKF's assasination, the Twin Towers falling, you will remember where you where when you first heard about this. You'll be telling your grandkid's grandkids about this. Trust me.
So I first saw this developing last week, but didn't post it here for whatever reasons (because I'm lazy because i was super busy). In the video, comedian Maronzio Vance explores the mystery behind Bad Boy president and C.E.O. Puff Daddy's anti-golden touch. Basically whatever he touches becomes poisoned, wilts away, disintegrates, and disappears forever (or gets thrown in jail).
Over the past few days this video rant has been getting some airplay and circulation amongst the internets, and the man himself even responded. And when Puff speaks, it's always newsworthy. You can't beat his acting prowess either. Puff Daddy, P. Diddy, Diddy , Puffy knows drama. He needs his own show on TNT.
Here he responds by stating that Bitch Assness has reached new heights, and we are in a state of emergency. Somebody get Donald Rumsfiled on the phone. This is no laughing matter
Beefing over internet = not gangster.
The Roots on "Keys To The City"
The Roots crew talk about their hometown of Philadelphia and their humble beginnings.
All the way live from the 2-1-5. (c) Black Thought
And while we're on the subject of the Roots, let's all watch my favorite all-time video from the Illadelph crew that touches on the evil plague that is repetition, uncreativity (which isn't a real word, but i used my creativity in making it up), and the copy-cat nature of hip hop. Amazing how this video is 12 years old, but most of it still holds up today (more than ever). Some things will never change.
The Roots - "What They Do"
"The principles of true hip-hop have been forsaken,
it's all contractual and about money-making" (c) Black Thought.
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