After the extremely well written review done by eA, I noticed some comments attacking the website for choosing to cover a particular album. The album was the Black Eyed Peas most recent release, The E.N.D. [read here]. I couldn’t be more shocked and appalled by the fact that a handful of commenters (and other silent readers) were gasping at the fact that KevinNottingham.com, the home of real hip hop, original samples, and quality content, was reviewing a Black Eyed Peas album (ewwwwwww!). I know, right? Isn’t that crazy? What kind of website covers music of all types? That’s pretty disgusting isn’t it? It’s remarkably horrible that we cover even the worst of un-established artists (not naming names) and yet, we turn to cover a highly established and developed hip-pop music sensation, also a group that once put out quality hip hop for a long time. I mean, what kind of website wants to channel and analyze the shift a particular group has made and possibly monitor it and write it out for everyone to see? It’s horrible. The nerve of us for picking this album to review and the nerve of eA to actually give it a 71!?!?
This score entails that it is better than this years Busta Rhymes album (Back on my…), Big Pooh’s Delightful Bars, and B Real’s Smoke n’ Mirrors. What?! Black Eyed Peas having higher scores (and conclusively being better) than other hip hop albums? What a joke KevinNottingham.com is.
Okay, internet makes it hard to track sarcasm. I will first state that anyone who solely looks at a score and judges an album and compares it by the score to other albums is going about things the wrong way. Secondly, why on earth wouldn’t we review the Black Eyed Peas? In fact, why on earth haven’t we reviewed the TV on the Radio album from last year, or the most recent Green Day, U2, and Adele albums? At least, in this case, BEP has a relationship to hip hop, and frankly, if you haven’t heard the album you are missing out on some quality drum patterns from will.i.am, who IS one of the most outstanding producers in hip hop, no, music at this moment. Thirdly, why is everyone acting like we turned our back on hip hop? If anything, what if the Black Eyed Peas album was tremendous (and received a 90)? Wouldn’t we be doing everyone a favour by putting our ear drums on the line and displaying the surprise to everyone else thoroughly? On the flip side, perhaps we saved some people’s time by claiming it could hardly be worth the time. I sure as hell know that some of our past reviews have enlightened people for better or for worse.
It’s funny because I think our KevinNottingham.com readers are some of the most mature readers on the hip hop web; not only in age, but in attitude, practice, and contributions. Go over to my Double Barrel review on OKP and witness some of the brilliant comments i.e. “This review is gay.” Frankly, I adore our conversations and topics of discussion, which is why I was so shocked to see people flipping out and hating the fact that we reviewed The Black Eyed Peas album. Why didn’t I get slain for reviewing the Chester French album or even the Chico Hamilton album? And blast that Fred for positively reviewing Relapse.
Even if this is the case and you really hate the particular artist, just skip over it. Obviously, with close to 400-500 views, people care about what we have to say about the review; hating it or loving it. This really isn’t a “complain post” because Kevin, Thomas, myself and all the other writers have come to the conclusion that we can’t appeal to everyone at the same time. What I do feel is necessary though is to stick up for the writers who devote days and sometimes weeks to write a review, hoping to get some great feedback and to enlighten folk, only to be greeted with a response of disdain for the fact the album’s cover is even on KevinNottingham.com.
Is it this hate for the mainstream? Is it just for BEP? I mean, after all, they DID make a song called “Where Is The Love?” I know, right? Stopping violence and other negative treatment in the world? That ain’t hip hop (sarcasm).
Anyways. As music expands, KevinNottingham.com will have to expand. If you guys DO love us as much as ya’ll say you do, then you will truly understand why we will need to “keep up with the Joneses.” But even still, is it really keeping up with what’s hot (or not hot) or is it the fact that we just love music of all shapes, sizes and forms? We have turned a blog into a website, simply for the fact that we love music (and so states the SOHH.com “Music Lover of the Year” award). If doing a review of the Black Eyed Peas is considered our movement to autotune, then hopefully when we do rap, people will appreciate it more. Regardless, keep reading for better or for worse because only here will you get some of the best and most valuable MUSIC information on the net.
{ 38 comments… read them below or add one }
Very well written. That”s the problem though, some people spend all their time listening to the same thing. If more people would go back and listen to some of the samples , they would realize that a lot of dj’s used many different sources from jazz to rock to pop. Now the BEP’s may not be my favorite group but they are talented, Will I am has produced many hit songs for other artist, Fergie had a song on her cd that would be a smash hit on any RnB station singing over a Commodoors sample, and the group was discovered by Eazy-e of all people. more people should try and give a good listen to some of everything, you might find a song or two that you like and discover something about yourself. Expand your mind by expanding your music selection. besides, after seeing soldier boy the other night, we need to do something.
co-sign
What up Sean, great post! I saw the review and the negative comments posted. Very childish IMO. I am grateful that you guys bring a wide spectrum to the table, and F a critic.
What brought this (current) post to my attention was the “Nottinghammers” in the title. That was a title dubbed by Isbjerg to the group of long-term producers who went in on the first Kev Mixtape album:
http://kevinnottingham.com/2008/09/04/please-nottinghammers-dont-hurt-em/
I read the title and was like, “What did I do??” LOL
When I went back and read the comments again, I noticed it was the Nottinghammers that actually defended the site. It’s cool if all readers are “Nottinghammers” in this case, just thought you meant us. Keep doin’ what you doin’ fam! One!
True!
I’ll do a post about the whiners on WYDU soon…
while i absolutely HATEd Boom boom pow i do not hate the black eyed peas. will.i.am like u said is one of the best producers in all music right now. i agree there album was solid aside from boom boom pow
i love the old black eyed peas joints, but i dont really like the newer releases. when fergie came, they kinda changed their style . . but: although they became more and more mainstream they still had some good songs.
in my opinion you gotta give them props and respect for what they did in the past. whether you still love their music or you hate them, it doesnt matter. just respect them.
PS: if you arent satisfied with the posts here just go back to the soulja boy forum where you came from.
Without a doubt, I wholeheartedly agree. It’s somewhat embarassing some of the comments that were left.
The sound of the album itself is a sound so prominent in current hip-hop music, whether we agree with it or not – whether it be 808s or UMC, etc. – it’s there. So, where’s the issue of reviewing it? Again, Deez reviewed Chester French who’s ‘authenticity’ in hip-hop is still questioned, whereas will.i.am is rooted in it. At no point of the review did I mention it being a “true” hip-hop album, but rather a mash-up of genres with some hip-hop elements.
If anyone can argue why we should review a Soulja Boy album over BEP, be my guest.
Being a blogger means you kind of have to have a “fuck all” attitude. If you wanna write about something, write about it. Some people will like it, some will hate it – but ultimately it’s your website.
As for Black Eyed Peas, i’m glad you did the review because i’ve been skeptical about them, but all it really did was confirm how much I don’t enjoy their music. I think Boom Boom Pow is the exact opposite of an “end to an era of music and a song to start a new more electronic genre.” That’s the same bullshit Diddy is trying to pull with his new album dropping a year from now with the Diddy Bop. It’s nothing but fueling club bangers and shitty lyrical songs. Just because it sounds tight when your tripping balls on acid in a euro club doesn’t mean it’s gonna make a legit album.
Dunno, love the site, read it daily, always enjoy how it keeps me up to date on the new music and new artists, but I don’t think this review was anywhere too far left field.
I see a lot of mentions about reviewing a Souljah Boy album, and frankly, we probably might in the future. We just haven’t because it’s not on the priority list.
Thanx Deez for postin’ this …one thing that I can say about BEP, you have to give them credit by expandin’ their boundaries in the musical spectrum…I thought that’s why we love hip-hop in the 1st place because they are know boundaries.
MaG’s two cents. word up deez. Expansion. Why is it as hip-hoppers man we’re so into putting our music and our ideas in this little box? Even our most favorite and beloved sites (ehem…) get scrutinized for reviewing quality MUSIC..remember the reason why this isn’t just called “this is hip-hop” anymore…cause it aint. and deez you know I was on da OKP site and posted my comment on da double review and man couldn’t agree more. Go cbox’s and comments sections of other sites and the ignorance is knee deep. so how can we as readers and “loyal” hip-hop fans then decide what can and can’t be reviewed by a site as diverse as this one. and no i ain’t riding the d*ck of the site…..i just apprceiate great ish when I see it and far be it for me to say what Thomas, Deez, Addi or Kev should review….lets stop limiting ourselves….wake up and sniff the smelling salt!!!!
Nottinghammers = a term I’ve been using forever relating to our Readers as a whole
just to clarify
Word up homez. People forget how hip-hop BEP is, or were. Will is a still a beast on the boards. I saw them at Rock the Bells doing their first album with a live band (and no Fergie), pretty dope stuff. But of course, heaven forbid we review something not hip-hop, and give it a favorable score.
I’m doing a review of the next Foo Fighters album, fuck what ya heard
I have ‘met’ a lot of great people in here, some in the contests and some in the debates on various topics.. I like to call you The Nottinghammers – The people, Ive communicated with, worked with or will work with… From Ayraq to Trav, From G.C. to Flamesyall they are great bloggers and great internet friends… I spend more time mailing/talking to you than most of my old friends because of a common source.. This site..
This site is being more and more popular and more bloggers tend to find this blog and not knowing our ways and tone here, they burst into lame comments and mails… (I see you perverted spaceman..Imma get some black voodoo on you ) And some of this are to be expected with this succes…. We just have to either ignore it ( Breathe quietly in ) or start a meaningless debate.. ( A wise man told me don’t argue with fools/Cause people from a distance can’t tell who is who )
We stand united as Nottinghammers, support each other and lift where needed…
Deez, thanx for bringing it up… Ive seen some debates turn ugly on some other sites and I really like that we can get together here and get it out of the way by talking about it…
One love to all of you, I consider Nottinghammers ( Goes for you too mrs Ameryca. )
I read your website frequently and admit I was caught off guard when I saw you reviewed the new BEP (not that their older stuff isn’t respectable, but it’s been like 7 years) but at the same time I think all the hate is too much.
I can’t believe people getting mad at information, not a forced listening session, but simply information about a record.
I would definitely call myself a “hip hop purist” but that Swag On joint by Soulja Boy is fire, I can admit when something is hot, even if it “real hip hop”
So by all means, review whatever the hell you want, it’s your website, we’re lucky to have you doing it so why the hell should we bitch about the content especially when it continues to be in depth and hip hop related?
I think it kills people if you say Will.i.am is real hip hop…BECAUSE HE IS!!! I don’t really mess with BEP, but I respect the hustle. The keep it positive and are doing their thing for real…WORLDWIDE!!! I was a little shocked to see the review, but kudos for doing it. Hip Hop is not just Premier, Pete Rock and Dr. Dre. Ooops, for you so-called purists, insert: 9th Wonder and omit Dr. Dre if that makes you feel better. Deez, Kev, Interns…keep reppin’ and we’ll keep ridin’!!!! PEACE
I quote Isbjerg’s entire statement for truth.
Thanks for the clarification Sean, I figured that was the case.
We are all Nottinghammers, old to new.
“A wise man told me don’t argue with fools/Cause people from a distance can’t tell who is who”
^^^
Jay has a lot of jewels in his music. Sorry had to get that in.
It is what it is. I’ve said time and time again….we can’t please everyone. I read the comments, but didn’t see what the big deal was…but that’s just me.
It was a well written review. Nuff said.
I REALLY DONT UNDERSTAND ALL THIS HATE….THIS IS A HIP HOP WEBSITE…..AND THERE IS ALOT OF SIDES OF HIP HOP. SO THEY REVIEWED A B.E.P ALBUM….SO WHAT??….YOU DONT LIKE THE B.E.P….THEN DONT READ THE REVIEW….CASE CLOSE!!…YOU HEARD DEEZ…THEY MIGHT REVIEW A SOULJAH BOY ALBUM….THAT MADE MY LAUGH HARD….I MEAN…TO ME HE’S WACK-TOWN RECORDS…WITH A LIFE TIME CONTRACT…..BUT THATS MY OPINION….OTHERS MIGHT NOT THINK SO …LOL
Fact of the matter is, this website has expanded tremendously over the 2 years it’s been online. There are a lot of writers here, many with different tastes. Though, I personally would not have written this review, it is very much welcomed here, which is why I posted it.
i just want to say the black eyed peas album is actually very good
even though that aint my style of hiphop still dope none the less
2nd
im sure all the damn haters are people who never listened to the album
That’s what it is! You don’t like BEP? Skip to the next post. They are not hip-hop, they are pop now but they used to be. Every post is not for everyone, but KN has something for everyone.
fuck haters. thats probably the closest i can get to their level. on the for really though when or when will it stop. there’s nothing wrong with little traditionalism. or even a lot (it’s how we keep getting quality music.) but fuck man, just coz people have preferences why should they force them down our throats. especially trying to diictate to a website llke this one. QUICK NOTICE – KN services tons of Hip-hop heads who are smart enough to know that reviews and shit are nothing more than educated suggestions. Read it “if u want”, Like it “if u want”., take the advice “only if u fuken want 2″. lets keep da hate nd non constructive crit to your circle of friends who dont have the backbone to disagree with your opinions. AGAIN FUK H8rs
no matter what you do someone is going to hate, and in this case B.E.P. had dirty shit in the past and even though their recent shit doesnt appeal to me they still have some of the best production in the business. and in the end people who are talking shit dont have anything constructive to talk shit about, the hate is all based on how they feel about the group which is bullshit, these people should find something better to do
wow, you are all sooooooo open-minded! open to so many types of music! it’s crazy how you can listen to a gangstarr album, but still like the black eye peas. man! your taste is sooo eclectic! fuck off. stop trying to defend and justify shitty music. i really thought that this might be a site where i can get away from all the bullshit that mainstream is feeding us, but i was wrong. in the end, it is all about dumbing down to please the masses….. maybe one day there will be an alternate to the mtv’s & bet’s, where REAL music like jazz, soul, and hip hop can be heard. and i love all the people that will be saying, “dawg, you just hatin, they successful makin money.” ya that may be, but at what price? so our race can be set back another 100 years. all this shuckin’ and jivin’. want me to tap dance for ya sir? maybe shine ya shoes!? peace out kevinnottinghamers (lame), you herbs can go ahead and laffy-taffy to your 8th grade music.
It’s really not that serious Greg Kennear. If you don’t like the post….just skip it.
Yo sean. the reason that I didn’t like the Black Eyed Peas review is because it is an album where the BEP I liked who actually rapped abandoned their roots for sell-out mainstream music. Now, I’m not one of those emo kids who says “I reject society cuz I’m awesome, man…” but at the same time, I don’t like when people change their ways for the sake of selling albums. I used to love Linkin’ Park, but when “Minutes to Midnight” came out, I was so disappointed. Same situation with BEP. Their old stuff was good (never great, but at least it had a hip-hop feel to it). I’m not going to ever go to a review and say “AWW UR A DICK CUZ U REVIEWED AN ALBUM WHATTYADOIN?” but I just wish that you would choose better reviews. Like the new AZ album. Review that instead. If AZ is comes out with an album and you review the BEP album instead, that’s what’s frustrating.
Greg is a hater… Superb.. Well Greg thank you for joining in with your matured and well considered answer.. Beause of one BEP review, this underground HIP HOP site is turned in to a crossover sellout big time page… Your insight is an inspiration to all hip hop listener across the world…
Irony……….
Greg, what wrong with you ?
I can appreciate that response Matt. There are more albums out there than time that we have to review. So why did we review BEP when we could have spent the time reviewing AZ? Good question.
No doubt Kev, that’s a great question.
How we “choose” to review an album, its kind of just there. We make some albums a priority and do it. Rarely do we demand a review from any of the writers.
If we could, we’d review every album that comes out, a la HipHopDx. Fortunately, they have an army of writers (albeit not all as high calibre as some would like at times), copies of the album a week in advance, and some motive to write about the album. For us to write about the album, we have to be able to. Whether we hate it or love it, some albums don’t click with our pen game.
The AZ, there’s been extremely little interest in it. Watching the interest of BEP go up and up and curiousity grow about that album, it only made sense to do one about it. More reviews are coming, but we can only do so much because all of us have lives outside of the site, making it difficult to meet deadlines and such
I’ll give you a quick reveiw of AZ’s Legendary. Half the album he is rapping like a down south artist (no shots) and the other half shows potential in what the album could have been. This is from someone who paid money for the album. In house production team. No Emile, Jay Waxx, no Lil Fame, etc.
Score 60/100
I’m still gonna check out the new AZ album because its AZ (a&r copy first before I spend $)
publish that shit
LOL I can’t believe he put out a NEW album again
im wit deez man…and i love AZ…but i did NOT know the album was out….not no shots but i think cats r lettin mgmt and their labels and marketing teams take the brunt of their shoulders instead being on the sites and the stores and still guerilla marketing. in this day and age when ur momma can put out a cd to the masses sumone as legit and well-known as AZ is forced to compete and really is forced to tep up the game a lil bit. cant just assume that cats are just ALWAYS gonna be checking for ya music anymore. U gotta pull people in man
You know, this is a whole other topic that I’d love to start another post on… is the whole putting an album out and not marketing it at all. I remember not knowing about the AZ album when it dropped and now I’m just hearing about a second AZ album… wtf?
word! only reason I knew about the one b4 this was THIS site! and it was like mentioned in like a comment on anotha post. and not cause ya’ll slacking but if nobody sending you a cd or an email blast or talking to ya’ll bout the music how you gonna kno? they dont do posters and fliers no more. its about advertisng space and word of mouth. and if you put out material in like three years then hit the blogs and update not just the fans but EVERYBODY! I mean I am not the biggest BEP fan but hip-hoppers need to step outside of themselves and this box and stop judging cats and they’re music and making assumptions about artists and why they make music. I applaud em for doing wut dey want and if you dont like the post, dont click. Outta all the great posts on this site and great music reviews and contests and conversations going on, people still wanna complain?
I can understand why the little interest and the fact that few new “Legendary” was even out may be a factor, but that’s the thing I love about this website. I have learned of so many albums I had no idea were out. I knew BEP’s album was out and could get a review from any music place. I like this website because it reviews underground stuff which not only reviews the album, but puts it out there for us to discover and enjoy. I know about BEP and their album and I still haven’t heard more than 2 songs on it. I just feel that this website is more (or should be more) oriented toward underground review and exposure. Leave the mainstream to the mainstream, like Amazon.com reviews for the BEP album.
I feel what you’re saying Matt. We spotlight a lot of “unknown” cats (as Kev would say) on the site, but that doesn’t mean we can’t show love to “mainstream” artist as well. From Trav Williams, to AIME, to Nobody Famous, MaG, Rashid Chappell, to J the S, to Thad Reid….and on and on and on we give LOTS of love to the unknown folks.
I bet somebody was diggin that BEP review. They may not have comment, but they were feeling it.