KevinNottingham.com » Get To Know

Tokyo Cigar: The Man, The Myth, The Maker

Justin — Tue, 03 May 2011 15:00:04 +0000

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=croGDRXUSdE

The Man, The Myth, The Maker is a new mini-documentary that takes you into the mind of the homie Tokyo Cigar. The talented producer speaks on some of the projects he’s got in the works, displays his self-described “it ain’t low budget, it’s no budget” set up and shows you how he made “Skeleton Bent” from his latest album codename:DEVASTATOR.

Introducing… Buggs Tha Rocka

Kevin — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 22:35:43 +0000

We just premiered a new track from Buggs Tha Rocka, off his upcoming KN.com sponsored project Mutant Level 5. The tape will be dropping next month, but we wanted to give you a chance to learn a little more about this Cincinnati emcee. So hit the jump to get to know Buggs Tha Rocka…

Where you reppin:

Cincinnati, Ohio (513)

Introduce yourself:

I’m Buggs Tha Rocka. I’m a writer, artist, father, visionary, student of the game, a genius.

Where did the name Buggs Tha Rocka come from?

Buggs was a nickname my friend gave me who also is a MC, I added “Tha Rocka” partly because everyone was always either intrigued or made fun of my love for alternative/rock music. Being from where I’m from most “ghetto” kids weren’t listening to that type of music by choice anyway. I was considered weird for that.

Main musical inspirations:

The Notorious B.I.G, Outkast, A Tribe Called Quest, Pharrell Williams.

When did you fall in love with hip hop?

What made me fall in love with hip-hop was the fact I wasn’t allowed to listen to hip-hop. That made it more interesting because I had to sneak & listen to it at home because my mom thought all rap music was about was profanity and negativity. The fact hip-hop was so honest, and so creative I knew I had to be apart of the culture.

Current projects we should be looking out for:

Mutant Level 5 project, which is my 1st album which comes July 14th I’m very excited about this piece of work.

Previous work that we should know about:

As far as previous works I just released a 9 week free-style series called “The prelude” to build anticipation & awareness on my arrival back on the music scene & for those who never heard of me as an introduction. I Also have 3 mix-tapes under my belt the last one was with DJ Mick Boogie it was called “Hip-Hop Supa Hero” You can download it @ buggstharocka.bandcamp.com

If you had to pick one song that defines your career to date, what song would that be?

“Closer to My Dreams” by Goapele

If you weren’t doing music, what would your occupation be?

Honestly, I couldn’t answer that I never wanted to be anything other than a musician. Couldn’t even imagine that bro.

Why should the readers and fans give you a shot and listen to your music from here on out?

If you like witty lyrics, originality, honesty, substance you need to listen to my music because It’s everything that is lacking in the game that fans of hip-hop say they want & need.

If you could only take one record on a deserted island with you, what album would that be?

Wow, that’s a good question. I would have to say Kanye West Late Registration. Super sick album! Lyrics, concepts, production is very solid & I never get tired of it.

Tell us one thing that very few people may know about you.

I have a fear of commitment… I never had a relationship longer than a year in a half. If I’m not worried about me breaking some beautiful lady’s heart, its me actually catching feelings & getting hurt.

What’s next for you?

Mutant Level 5 project, just focusing on the release and pushing that to reach the masses, and of course touring.

Any shout outs or last words?

Be sure to download Mutant Level 5 project coming out July 14th! Thanks to all the music lovers, & blogs/websites showing me love and supporting good music.

Introducing…FeSo

Thomas — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 14:00:18 +0000

We featured Chicago emcee FeSo at the beginning of the month highlighting his song “Soul of Ethiopia.” After listening to “Soul of Ethiopia” and some of his other material a spotlight for him was the next order of business. Hit the cut for the interview as he discusses the origins of his name, his musical beginnings, being a rapper/producer, and future projects.

Where you reppin?
Born in Jackson, Mississippi, raised around the Chicago land area.

Introduce yourself.
Name is FeSo. Started rapping when I was 13 and been doing it ever since. Been around music my whole life. My dad was a DJ, Mom is a soul and gospel music enthusiast and I have family members who perform in various acts like the Mississippi Mass Choir. I Got drawn to hip hop from my passion for lyrics and the ability to illustrate with those lyrics. I try to make sure that I do that with all my songs/projects.

Where did the name Feso come from? Are there any other name you went by in the past?
Nope, I never went by any other names. FeSo is a nickname that I’ve had since I was a baby that just stuck. My Dad used to call me ‘fatso’ jokingly of course but he said it so fast that it sounded like FeSo…. Not the best story in the world but that’s where it came from.

On your EP Don’t Sleep you have a song called “One for Dilla” can you explain what Dilla meant to you and how he influenced your music.
Dilla has been an inspiration on my whole music career. The first time I heard Dilla and knew it was Dilla was on “Thelonious” on Common’s Like Water For Chocolate album. I was a fan of the ATCQ production but didn’t know until later that Dilla had his hand on all that with The Ummah. After that I picked up all his stuff from J-88 (SV before they were SV for those that don’t know) to of course Donuts and all his later solo projects. His beats are just ridiculous PERIOD and with me growing up around soul and gospel music, his neo-soul music was the perfect match for me as I progressed not only as a artist but a fan of music. It’s too bad that he got more pub after his death but it is what it is. Dilla is timeless.

What other artist have helped shape your career?
I’m a huge Jay-Z fan have been since Reasonable Doubt. He has definitely had an impact on my career. I don’t want to make this list too long but just off the top of my head the list of artist that have influenced my career are: Madlib, BIG, Pac, Lupe Fiasco, Kanye, Little Brother, Blue Magic, Erykah Badu, Gorillaz, DOOM, Blu, Coheed and Cambria, Outkast, People Under The Stairs, NERD, NaS, and of course Michael Jackson. The list could go on. I try to get inspiration from all types of music that way I’m not ‘pigeon-holing’ the creativity to one genre of music.

What current projects we should be looking out for?
Don’t Sleep 2 is dropping May 4th. It’s the follow up to my first project Don’t Sleep EP. Be on the look out for that….

Previous work that we should know about?
My first project Don’t Sleep EP is available now as well as my debut album maniFeSo. Don’t Sleep EP is available for free on my blog and maniFeso is on iTunes now [Buy]. I also have lots of single tracks available on my blog and facebook page.

Not only are you an emcee, but you produce as well. What type of equipment are you using?
I use the Roland SP-606 primarily. That’s a classic piece of equipment right there. I also use a Yamaha Motif and Reason.

What’s more enjoyable, rapping or producing?
That’s a tough question. I got into producing to make beats for me to rap on so I would instinctively say rapping but there’s nothing like finding a dope sample.

If you had to pick one song (doesn’t have to be your own) that defines your career to date, what song would that be?
My song “Dream Chasin” on Don’t Sleep 2. I’m at the point right now where I’ve had a little success with the music but I’m still chasing the dream of making something more with the music. I won’t allow myself to get comfortable with everything that has happened up to this point. When you get comfortable you get lazy and you could lose everything.

Why should the readers and fans give you a shot and listen to your music from here on out?
I paint pictures with lyrics that everyone can relate to. That’s what I try to do in every song. I want the listener no matter their situation or lifestyle to hear the music and be able to relate the song/album to some facet of their life.

If you could only take one record on a deserted island with you, what album would that be?
I’m struggling with this one….. The one album I would take would be Donuts. I find something different that I missed every time listen to that album.

What’s next for you?
I been working on an instrumental album and I have some collabo[ration] projects that are in the works right now.

Any shout outs or last words?
Shouts everyone that took time to check out this spotlight. Truly appreciate it. I hope everyone continues to check out and enjoy the music. Shouts to Thomas and everyone at KN for letting me get on the site and everyone that has ever had an impact on my music career. Stay tuned for FeSo….. Peace.

Contacts
Facebook
Twitter
maniFes Blog

Illa J: Exclusive Valentine’s Day Song – “Sunshine”

Introducing… Myke Forte

J. Rizzle — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 16:00:10 +0000

The first time I came across a Myke Forte beat I was hooked, so next I listened to the Taurus beat tape and I was like this homie’s skillz are sick! The logical thing next was to find out… Who is Myke Forte? Hit it at the jump so you can find out…

Where you reppin:

Birmingham, UK

Introduce yourself:

I’m 29, big fan of music + art, started making beats since 2003. At first i didn’t take it very serious, I would just use what i had around me but then I started finding out more about production and what people used. Before 2003 I was studying graphics and that was my main passion, but then my daughter was born so I kinda left designing for a short time and thats when i got into beatmaking on a more serious level. After I felt cool about letting people hear my beats, I would go to open mic sessions just so I could play beats and rap to get a reaction. But overall i just love creativity, expression, linking up with like-minded heads listening to other peoples music, an getting inspired off them, even more with the people around me. So yeah thats me!

Where did the name Myke Forte come from?

Err… Well my names Mickel Ledford so I thought I would use letters from my name, also I used to rap before I started to make beats, so mics was my forte. Myke Forte (Plus you know I thought It sounded kinda slick at the time) haha!

Main musical inspirations:

Well I grew up listening to a lot of reggae and soul, so my first inspirations were people like Dennis Brown, Barrington Levi, Buju, The Jacksons, Lee Scratch Perry, Bob Marley, Mica Paris and Diana Ross, and lots of other stuff around that time, but as I got older I started listening to more music. I got into Roy Ayers, Thelonius Monk, Duke Ellington, Bob James, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Soweto Kinch, J Dilla, Pete Rock, Premo, RZA, Eric Sermon. I mean, you can get inspired all the time by lots of things, but I love Jazz, Soul, Anime and Games.

When did you fall in love with hip hop?

I fell in love with Hip Hop when Yo MTV Raps came on, I was hype whenever it came on! I would tape every single episode just to remember the lyrics of the tracks, I think it was about 1990 when I first watched it.

Current projects we should be looking out for:

The most recent projects to look out for is the Zodiak Series, its a Set of 12 beat tapes starting with Aries, Taurus and next to come is Gemini. I have a track with Sonny Jim for the Australian LP and also a track with Redbeard, Working on a few things that combine art+music called audiopixel with a design outfit called Soapbox.

Previous work that we should know about:

Pay Dues-Ep and Discovering Myke Forte, they are both on iTunes and Amazon

What’s your equipment setup like?
My setup is quite simple, I have an MPC2500, which is connected to a 003 Rack, some cheap Behringer Monitors, Macbook Pro and logic, One Really basic turntable to sample from, Roland SP404, and a korg kaosilator, I’ve not to long moved house and dont use all of my equipment, just use the mpc really and logic or pro tools to record.

If you had to pick one song that defines your career to date, what song would that be?

Fall In Love, Slum Village (Trinity) It make me feel at ease about what it is im doing and it keeps me grounded, I ask myself what am I in this for? The love or the need to become recognised.. I’ve questioned my place in the world of music and felt like im not getting anywhere and I should quit! But people have once said to me (I think it was Shears) what is it your quitting from, I like music, I enjoy it, I should carry on for the love and to not stray from that.

Why should the readers and fans give you a shot and listen to your music from here on out?

Im always thinking about music and how I can improve, coming up with ideas and getting excited about different concepts. I am very critical of my own work so im always trying to learn about new things, I would have never thought 3 years ago that people all over the world would hear my music let alone having this interview, and im grateful to have that opportunity so who knows what the future holds!

If you could only take one record on a deserted island with you, what album would that be?

Like Water For Chocolate by Common

What’s next for you?

Finish the Zodiak series, start working with more singers and MC’s and hopefully my own debut album, keep on building and improving my craft really.

Any shout outs or last words?
Yes…. Shout outs to Kosyne, Kelakovski for setting up Louisden, an online beat-making community with some talented producers, (One of the first to put me on) REAL TALK! Shout out to Daniel and Ben at Soapbox for the support and freshest T-Shirts in the UK, Hip Hop Hype Dog, Certified Bangers, Basement Sessions and Luigiboi for sharing my music on different blog sites, and being a big help, and finally thank you kevinnottingham.com and J.Rizzle for having me feature here!

FizziPop

Paid Dues

Undisputed

Artist Spotlight: K-BETA

Kevin — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 16:00:00 +0000

As one of Inner Loop Records’ premier emcees, DMV’s own K-BETA recently released his groundbreaking free album Inglorious Beta. The new album features production for Inner Loop producers J-Scrilla, Overok, and Soulful! as well and gems from Kev Brown and JUDAH. If you’re not up on the album, make sure you check it out. And if you’re not up on the man himself, hit the jump to get to know K-BETA.

Where you reppin:

Born in Manassas, VA. Raised all over the DMV

Introduce yourself:

I’m K-BETA – flagship artist of Inner Loop Records

Where did the name K-BETA come from?

K-BETA is a play on the initials KB. Originally, I went by Knowledge Born, and later used Kinetic Beta..it was in a freestyle session on the yard that I spit “K-Beta” for the first time, and it stuck.

Main musical inspirations:

I’m inspired by all music. It really comes down to beautiful sounds for me. I admire the work of all the great writers, producers, DJs, engineers, graphic designers..everything that went into cresting the classics.

When did you fall in love with hip hop?

I fell in love with Hip-Hop when I first watched Krush Groove. Ironically enough, the movie was released on my birthday, 10/25, in 1985.

Current projects we should be looking out for:

Inglorious Beta [download] just dropped on 4/1. 16 brand new joints. I’m also working on a few more projects to drop throughout 2010.

Previous work that we should know about:

My first album, Nigger [cop it], came out in 2006. Its available on iTunes. Also, I did a mixtape with the god DJ Alizay called 89 to 09. You can get that right here on kevinnottingham.com.

If you had to pick one song that defines your career to date, what song would that be?

“No Easy Way Out” by Robert Tepper. It’s on the Rocky IV soundtrack. There have been times throughout my life when I sought an escape instead of way through. My life changed when I started fighting through the pain. That songs brings me right back to the beginning..the first step in a new direction.

Why should the readers and fans give you a shot and listen to your music from here on out?

The readers and fans can listen to my music and feel it. They know that I’m here to make a difference. I’m committed to using this gift for the greater good. My story, the ups and downs etc., is one of overcoming odds that seem impossible. It’s about placing higher self over lower self taking your life back. There are millions of people fighting that war, and I’m just here to shed light into that dark place.

If you could only take one record on a deserted island with you, what album would that be?

Marvin Gaye – What’s Going On?

What’s next for you?

I’ll be on the road with kev brown and yU during the spring for The Kragenoff Tour. Outside of that, I’ll be in the studio.

Any shout outs or last words?

Shout out to everybody involved in the creation of Inglorious Beta, and everybody who gave me rides to the studio!

Black Business

Come Closer

DTLR (Down The Line Rhyme) feat. Diamond District & prod by Kev Brown

Introducing… Hi Stakez

Justin — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 14:00:33 +0000

Hi Stakez is part of the new breed of Houston artists. Along with the likes of Hollywood FLOSS, The Council, Rob Jay, Dustin-Prestige & Atw, the emcee/producer has given shine to a new sound coming from H-Town. Stakez, who is now located in Atlanta, has recently released his new EP A Day In The Life & has received coverage from major outlets such as HipHopDX. I spoke with Hi Stakez about the new EP, his thoughts on being a dual threat emcee/producer & more. Hit the jump and get to know Hi Stakez.

Introduce Yourself:

Hi Stakez….up & coming emcee / producer, better than your favorite artist

Where You Reppin:

Decatur, GA by way of Houston, TX (Houstatlanta).

Why the name Hi Stakez?

The name Hi Stakez means involving lot of risk: describes a risky situation in which somebody is likely to win or lose a great deal, and I don’t ever plan on losing.

Who are some of your musical inspirations?

Nas is one of my biggest inspirations lyrically. I also draw inspiration as an artist from Jay-Z, Outkast, Marivn Gaye and 2pac’s work ethic.

Past projects readers should know about:

I have previously released two albums: “Playin For Keeps” & “All Odds Even”. I also have two mixtapes: “The Lost Tapes” & “Sneakers & Stereos” with German DJ / Personality DJ Source.

Current projects readers should know about:

A Day In The Life EP now available on iTunes & Amazon MP3! A video has been shot for the single “A Day In The Life” by director Marc Casey and will be released in the coming weeks.

Tell us about The Day In The Life EP? How does it different from your previous work?

The EP is probably my most personal work because I went through a lot during the process of making this album. I originally began recording in late 2008 and the original title was “Sneakers & Stereos”. The project was put on hold numerous times and finally released as a mixtape in August of 2009. Shortly after I began recording a new album called “The Third EP”, which was later changed to “A Day In The Life” EP. The album isn’t a materialistic as the others, subject mater is more mature and doesn’t stray from the consistent sound I’ve blessed eardrums with since 2005.

Do you think it’s important to be versatile like yourself as both an emcee & producer?

Yes, being an artist and producer brings a full package to the table and it’s a never fail formula. People like Kanye West, T-Pain, Havoc (of Mobb Deep), and Erick Sermon (of EPMD) are just a few successful examples.

Has your time between Houston & Atlanta shaped your sound?

Being in Atlanta, I’ve had to come with more up-tempo music. In Houston we like our music slowed down with a lot of bass, so more so a step up in bpm.

If you had to pick one song that defines your career up to this point, what would it be?

“Untitled” off the new EP A Day In The Life.

You’re stranded on a desert island and can only have one album to listen to, what’s it gonna be?

It would be Jay-Z “The Blueprint”

Any shout outs or last words?

Shout out to my lable Actuate Records, Greg Walker, Kris Ex, DJ Source, DJ Chap, DJ Voltron, On Ten Entertainment and all my fans!

A Day In The Life

Love My Style

Artist Spotlight: Ayatollah Jaxx

Justin — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 14:35:42 +0000

Ayatollah Jaxx is a fixture in the Pittsburgh hip hop scene but is now gaining attention worldwide. As part of the duo Good Company with producer Fundamental, Jaxx garnered acclaim for their project The Damn Good EP. Building on this success, Jaxx recently released his solo album Hello, Hip Hop [download] along with a mixtape Nothing Like You Ever Heard [download]. We spoke with the talented emcee about his latest album, how Good Company formed & the differences of working as a solo artist compared to being in a group. Hit the jump for your chance to learn more about Ayatollah Jaxx.

Introduce yourself:

Asalaamu alaykum! (Peace and blessings be unto you) I’m the original Muslim With Attitude, one half of The North American Dream Team: Good Company- Ayatollah Jaxx.

Where You Reppin?

Torontoburgh, North America. Ahem… Toronto and Pittsburgh, PA.

Why the name Ayatollah Jaxx?

Why not? Haha, Ayatollah literally means in Arabic, “sign of God”. I was A-Jaxx originally, I got that from Homer’s Odyssey, Achilles’ cousin. He was a really arrogant warrior and I was always quick witted with a short temper, plus being a martial artist so it all kind of came together. I started throwing the Ayatollah in there when I was like 21, when I started getting more serious about Islam – there you have it. Plus, keep it funky, don’t it sound dope as hell??

Main musical inspirations:

Aiyo, real rap? It’s all over the map. Gil Scott-Heron, Prince, Michael Jackson, Earth Wind and Fire, but like, in Hip Hop? Big Pun, for sure, Queen Latifah, Ghostface, Kardinal Offishall, Nas, Lauryn Hill, Sizzla, Mos Def, The Roots, Kanye, The Clipse, Common, Lupe, Little Brother, Drake, Mobb Deep, Royce, so many brothers and sisters really, you know, just give me that feeling to make music.

Current projects readers should be looking out for:

Hello, Hip Hop featuring Chim Beatz, that just came out March 9^th. Make sure you get that if you haven’t. Really and truly, that should be any and all hip hop fan’s survival kit right there Chim Beatz and I have some material we’re gonna release as an EP called Hezbollah Jaxx and of course, Good Company’s first full length album, The Stoic Renewal.

Previous work that readers should know about:

Man, I’d honestly have to say out of all of it, my first release This Is My Jihad: Harb & Salaam and The Damn Good EP (Good Company). Divine Seven & Ayatollah Jaxx in: Black Connection aas a Pittsburgh favorite and I thought one of the most slept on jawns of 09.

How did Good Company come together?

I met Alex (Fundamental) through a friend of mine who MCs in Pittsburgh. We started building in like 07, I told him I come to The Dot often, my then girlfriend was there, I got friends and family there, you know, and we just linked up one summer. I stayed at his spot and we realized no pun intended it was Good Company.

What’s some of the differences of solo work compared to being part of a duo like Good Company?

Wow, that’s a good question. It’s completely different and at the same time it isn’t. Alex and I couldn’t be more opposite in musical taste. We’re both stubborn as shit, so we have no choice but to find middle ground on every record. The main difference is, doing solo work, I don’t care if some one else doesn’t like the record. If I like it, I put it out. Can’t do that when you’re in a group. But we’re the best duo in hip hop now, so I embrace that, because that element allows us to be so great. Humbly speaking.

How did you link up with Godsendant Music?

Krohme went to school with my cousin’s husband. He told me to holla at him, that he’s mad connected and could hold me down. This was 2006. We started to build, then he inked me to the label. Next to himself, I was the first cat with the ink to dry. He’s a great brother, helped a tremendous amount.

If you had to pick one song that defines your career to date, what song would that be?

Ah man, Little Brother’s “Not Enough.” That jawn speaks to me like the burning bush, real rap.

If you could only take one record on a deserted island with you, what album would that be?

Ain’t gonna be no electric, son!!!! What I’ma do look at the cover?! To rasclot… Haha, give me The Qur’an and I’m good. If I had the means to play the album though, I’d say, man… that’s tough. The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, at least that’s how I feel right now.

What’s next for you?

As we plan, verily God plans. More shows, I’m pulling out all stops in 010. Making y’all realize why I’m the most talented artist out and why Good Company is the best duo in hip hop. God willing.

Any shout outs or last words?

Nuff respect to you, my man 100 grand Justin Ivey, every one at KevinNottingham.com and you know, all the friends and supporters thus far. Phat shouts to y’all. Ma’salaama!

Oh yeah, make sure y’all brush your teeth too man, too many stinky breathed folks be stepping to me now days, what’s gwanin with that?

Nothing Like You Ever Heard

Job Fair

Bitter Sweet

Introducing… D. Schwartz

Thomas — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 13:00:51 +0000

D. Schwartz has been in the rap game for a while, but recently has received some well deserved buzz because of his collaborative EP with producer Beewirks. Foot On The Gas displayed D‘s witty word play and strong delivery. I was able to speak with D about a number of topics that ranged from his EP, the meaning behind “Goin’ Thru Hip-Hop.” and future projects. Hit the jump for more D. Schwartz.

Where you reppin?
Reppin South Florida right now. Living in Fort Lauderdale.

Introduce yourself.

My name is D. Schwartz. I’ve been doing this rap thing for a while now but you’ve probably heard of me most recently from my project with producer Beewirks, “D-Wirks” as were known collectively. We just released an EP entitled “Foot On The Gas” [download].

Main musical inspirations?

My inspirations in rap are lots of guys from the 90′s.

When did you fall in love with hip hop?

I feel in love with hip around 1995 ish. I started buying tapes and was really able to study them which caused me to like the songs more and more.

You along with Beewirks just released the collaborative EP, Foot On The Gas under the name of D-Wirks. How did that collaboration come to fruition?

I had a freestyle which was posted over at Nahright.com (Crime Wave [download]) and Beewirks heard it. He hit me up on Twitter and introduced himself and said he’d like to hear some more music. I sent him a few joints and he sent me a few beats. In addition to sending the beats I thought it was great how he would offer ideas with the beats, ideas for songs. We ended up make several songs pretty quickly and decided to focus on making a whole project instead of just a song.

The EP is a dope showcase of beats and rhymes. One of the more interesting songs on the EP is “Goin Thru Hip-Hop,” it seems like an autobiographical in nature. Can you explain that song?

That was the last song we did for the album. I asked Bee for something a little bit faster than the rest of the album and he sent me that beat. I believe he originally made that for Lupe. When I heard it I felt like it was pretty special. The “Goin Thru Hip-Hop” part was already in so I just had to figure out how I could talk about goin through hip hop. I’ve been rapping for a while and have had some incredible experiences from it, along with some shitty ones. I figured this would be the perfect opportunity to talk about it and it went with the beat so well. A lot of people who I know personally told me they really had an interesting time listening to that song as they remember hearing about all those things from me as they were happening.

What insight if any can you give to up and coming artist regarding the music business?

whether its with music or any other goal, just do it more than you talk about it. You have to be about what you want, if you put work in, you’ll get something back out.

You dropped Derek Operation [download] last year that paid homage to Premier (and Gang Starr). What was the inspiration behind that project and are there more such as that one on the horizon?

I was with a friend and we were listening to Primo beats. I had the idea right there. Also it was a way to make a statement, its not all about fancy big name producers and top quality sound, it should be about the feel of the music, when it comes to hip hop, it should be about beats and rhymes, at least with the type of stuff I came up on. That project was not only a tribute to Primo but also to that whole era. Also I wanted to show people that I had some shit to say. As far as another project like that in the future, that’s a definite. I started one with a Mobb Deep theme along with my dude Butta Verses and I might do another one by myself when I figure out which producers beats I wanna work with. Not everyone has a stack of classics like premier does.

Besides Derek Operation and Foot On The Gas, what previous, current, and/or future projects should we know about?

Right now I’m trying to get a mixtape done, its kinda like a mixtape I guess? I have about 15 to 20 songs that I wanna put together as a project. That will be the next thing I put out. Its basically freestyles that are new many on popular beats plus a few songs from the past few months I never put out. Should be an interesting mix.

If you had to pick one song (doesn’t have to be your own) that defines your career to date, what song would that be?

Hmmm. I can never pick just one of anything, lol.

Why should the readers and fans give you a shot and listen to your music from here on out?

Well, I didn’t just start doing this last week. I’ve been working on this music for about half my life and its probably the thing that’s most steady in my life. I don’t make music for commercial accolades, I make it so you have something to feel, or to relate to. I always try to include something positive in my lyrics even if its lost within a sea of ignorance. I promise you’ll find it if you look.

If you could only take one record on a deserted island with you, what album would that be?

Ah shit, this wouldn’t be easy but I might have to go with Supreme Clientele.

What’s next for you?

Next is finishing up this mixtape. At the same time I’m working on the next D-Wirks project. Me and Bee vowed to make it better than Foot On The Gas so were working on that. Probably going to shoot the 2nd video for the EP soon as well. I have another idea I’m working on. Its basically a 5 song project with me and another rapper that’s gonna be on some really underground bugged out type of shit.

Any shout outs or last words?

Thanks to all the blogs and people who have been supporting the Foot On The Gas EP. It really means a lot to have people showing the love we’ve been receiving. If you haven’t seen the video [view] yet make sure and check that out and keep an eye out for the new stuff we’ve got coming! Peace

“Over Freestyle” [download]

“Drop the World Freestyle” [download]

“Power of Zeus”

“Goin’ Thru Hip-Hop”

http://www.myspace.com/thisisdschwartz
http://twitter.com/d_schwartz

Introducing… Donny Arcade

Kevin — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 13:00:32 +0000

Cleveland emcee, Donny Arcade isn’t exactly a newbie on KevinNottingham.com. You may remember the name from his recent full length debut, P.A.Y.O.R. or you may have caught his collabs with Phoenix Jones and DJ Chong Wizard or as part of the group The Plague Co. At any rate, if you’re not up on him, now’s your chance to get familiar. Hit the jump the get to know Donny Arcade…

Introduce yourself:

Donny Arcade aka The Playboy Genius !!

Is Donny Arcade your given name? If not, how did you come up with it?

Donny is my birth name but Arcade was a nickname giving to me by my friends coming up. I used to sell video games and be good at them too. Plus I had a lot of game for the ladies. So, it was a natural fit.

Main musical inspirations:

Being from Cleveland we would hear everything on the radio from funk to rock. It was like a melting pot for music but my inspiration came from original artist like Slick Rick, LL Cool J, Jimi Hendrix Michael Jackson and anybody who was creative. The first two albums I ever owned were Michael Jackson Bad & LL Cool J Bad. I threw a fit in the record store to get both and my Mom bought me both records. So, those two records inspired me a lot.

When did you fall in love with hip hop?

I was born into it. My older brother and my uncle had a breakdancing crew. When I was about 5 years old I remember hearing Trans Europe Express and seeing cartboard on the floor. I was doing shows with them all over. That’s when I fell in love with Hip-Hop.

Current projects we should be looking out for:

I just released my debut album P.A.Y.O.R. which stands for Play At Your Own Risk. It’s currently available for free download. I’m already working the follow up it’s called Hybrid Music. Look out for that it’s gonna be crazy. We also have the second album from The Plague Co. Its called Black Super Villain Music. We doing that with LT Moe. If y’all didn’t know The Plague Co. is the group. Members include Buddy Boie, Okelis & myself. Machine Killers 2 with Phoenix Jones and DJ Chong Wizard is also in the works. Besides that I just been grinding making beats and directing videos.

Previous work that we should know about:

A few years back me and LT Moe had the oppertunity to place a song on the Fight Night Round 3 video game. The song is called Knock Em Down. Its under the name LTDA. That was my first anything and it happened to be one of my favorite games. So, that was pretty cool. Shout out to EA Sports! We also did a mixtape with Chamillionaire & Stat Quo called Big Business. Shout out to them too. We also dropped the Machine Killers mixtape with Phoenix Jones , DJ Chong Wizard & DJ G-Spot. Besides that I been quiet in the lab with plans to take over the world.

You produce also… what’s your equipment setup like?

My set up is real simple. Reason 4, a midi keyboard, protools and hard drives full of sounds and samples. I may have one of the biggest sample collections in the world.

If you had to pick one song that defines your career to date, what song would that be?

I would say “Staying Alive” by the Bee Gees because I’m still here and stronger than ever. I seen a lot and had a lot of people try to take me off my path. When I get my Grammy I’m gonna request they play that song for me.

Why should the readers and fans give you a shot and listen to your music from here on out?

I feel everyone should give me shot because the music I bring to the table is truly artistic and original . I’m the evolution of a MC. I do everything from the production, the writing, the engineering, all the way to the booth. You will never get the same song from me. I can reinvent my sound at anytime.

If you could only take one record on a deserted island with you, what album would that be?

I would have to take the Bone Thugs-n-Harmony E 99 Eternal.

What’s next for you?

More music, more production and more videos from me. Infinty is the limit!

Any shout outs or last words?

Shout out to every single person that’s helped me get here and every single person that will take me to the next level. 216 Cleveland up the way, down the way! I love y’all! Big shout out to you Kevin! Thank you so much for the interview.

Introducing… Kida

Kevin — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 17:00:43 +0000

You’ve seen Kida on the site quite a bit as he just recently unleashed his mixtape, The Endemic in January, followed by an untagged version, as well as a “ladies version” on Valentine’s Day. With producers such as The Real Focus, 9th Wonder, and DJ Khalil behind him, Kida got some people listening. If you haven’t caught up yet, hit the jump to get to know this emcee…

Introduce yourself:

Well, for starters, my name is Kida. And for the record, that’s pronounced (key-duh) lol people seem to have an issue pronouncing my name. I represent Inglewood California. I’ve been rhyming for about 13 years now..So its safe to say I ain’t goin NO WHERE!!

Where did the name KIDA come from?

The name Kida is actually a nickname that derives from my birth name Akida. Everyone calls me Kida for short. You wouldn’t believe some of the different rap names I went through before I decided to just stick to my real name. PLEASE don’t ask me to say any of em!!! lol

Main musical inspirations:

Being raised with a musical background, I was exposed to all types of music.So,my inspiration came from the feeling I got when I was around music. Hip Hop influenced me the most, which brings us here today.

When did you fall in love with hip hop?

I fell in love with Hip Hop around the age of 10. That’s when my mom bought me my first hip hop tape. And I will go on record by saying DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince’s “He’s The DJ, I’m The Rapper” tape was heavily played around my house.

Current projects we should be looking out for:

We recently dropped my 2nd mixtape/street album called “The Endemic” [download] about a month 1/2 ago. Its doing very well and I encourage y’all to check it out. We also put out The Endemic ‘ladies edition’ on Valentines Day..Just for the ladies. You know we gotta put the ladies on a pedestal man. Also We dropped a freestyle series leading up to the album called “Who is Kida”…We bundled those up in mixtape form and thats gonna drop in a few weeks.

Previous work that we should know about:

You can check for my 1st mixtape/street album called “The Pandemic” we put that one out about a year ago.It definitely deserves a listen.

If you had to pick one song that defines your career to date, what song would that be?

“Cant Knock The Hustle” by Jay Z off the Reasonable Doubt album. I say that because I’ve been doing this for so long that no one man can determine my fate. That’s God’s job. So to sum that one up, you “Cant Knock The Hustle”!

Why should the readers and fans give you a shot and listen to your music from here on out?

I believe you guys should check for me because I bring back what everybody’s looking for. Just a regular guy,no gimmicks, no beefs, just great beats and great rhymes. I’ll never disappoint the fans because I AM a fan. Thats how I approach my music every time I write or record a song. I analyze my own music as if I were a fan checking it out for the very first time.

If you could only take one record on a deserted island with you, what album would that be?

WOW!!!…..There’s soooo many I would try to smuggle in with me but dang….Only one record huh?!?!? Ok….Well I hate to sound repetitive but… Jay Z’s “Reasonable Doubt” would be one I could definitely be cool with having as my only record. Why?? Because that record takes me back to a time where I caught the feeling that I wanted to do this rap thing on the next level. It was a very inspirational album for me. It made me feel like I could get out the hood and make a little paper for me and my family. All while approaching it like a pimp would..lol

What’s next for you?

Man….Success is next for me. I’ve been grindin’ at this for so long, thats the only thing that could possibly follow for me. Until then,we’re gonna be pumpin’ out mixtapes, street albums or what have you. Anything to keep the name out there and relevant.

Any shout outs or last words?

1st off, I wanna thank KevinNottingham.com for even thinkin’ Kida is relevant enough to interview. Thanx again yall, Shouts to my dude Focus…, Ph.D everybody at a.Fam and Oso Reel, Shouts to any and everyone that helped me with my music career in any form or fashion, too many to name because I have a lot of people that actually wanna see me succeed. Much props to all the fans that are downloading my music and accepting what Kida has to say. Once again…I’m Kida….If U dont know me…..YOU WILL SOON!!!! peace

Introducing…Mally

Thomas — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 17:00:24 +0000

Mally, the soon to be 24 year of MC out of Minneapolis, Minnesota, has the tools (delivery, strong mic presence, punch lines, and strong content) to be a major player in Hip-Hop. After receiving strong reviews for his third project, The Passion (here and here), he appears ready to make that push. We got the chance to speak with Mally about his beginnings as a MC, his name change, and what he has in store for the future. Hit the cut to get to know Mally.

Where you reppin’:

I am a proud representative of Minneapolis, Mn and have been reppin’ the Twin Cities for my entire life (23 years, soon be 24 in March). Primarily, I am on the Southside of Minneapolis performing, promoting my name, and building my following. [They] are the inspiration and reason for all that I write in a song.

Introduce yourself:

I go by the name of Mally and I consider myself to be a very introspective and transparent MC. I am a firm believer in creating a vivid account of who I am on every track. I put my words and thoughts together for those who may not know me as an artist or the man behind the music. I thank God for the strides I have made recently and believe that more people will become listeners over time. In addition, I have learned a lot about myself personally and professionally and want to share my new found knowledge with others who will come after me.

I am the 2010 winner of the “Next Up” (Best New Artist) at the Twin Cities Hip Hop Awards, Nominated for Best Twin Cities Album for The Passion, and was considered to have the best “Underground Album” on Boo Goo Doo Boom (bgdboom.com) and one of the Best Albums in Minnesota over at Midwest Broadcast (midwestbroadcast.blogspot.com) and have been featured on 33jones.com, DJBooth.net and several other notable sites as well.

You originally called yourself Mally From the 612. Why the name change?

I decided to remove “From the 612” off of my name because I didn’t want to be boxed in as a “Minnesota Rapper.” I thought that it might create the perception I was a local artist, with a local flow and a local career. I believe your name can have a positive or negative effect on your career just as much as your music. The name originated during a freestyle joking and I said: “It’s Mally From The 612, I’m still the illest nigga that the chicks run to.” After awhile it started to get old and so corny to me, that I had to put it to rest. The name drop felt like the shedding of old skin and I was starting over again with a new focus, plan and goals that I wanted to accomplish. Some people still call me Mally from the 612, but I doubt they are aware of my internal reformation, so it’s okay. Other than my own personal reasons for dropping the name, I got tired of people saying it was too much text on a flier… haha.

Main musical inspirations:

Growing Up/ As an Artist:

2Pac, Nas, Notorious BIG, Method Man, Jay-Z, Gemstones, Michael Jackson, The Lox, eLZhi, Joe Budden, Stevie Wonder, Kanye West, Donny Hathaway, Little Brother, Skyzoo, Lupe Fiasco, David Ruffin and Gil Scott Heron.

I proudly selected those artists because they have all made notable music that gave me a well rounded perspective on who they were musically and personally. I listen to their music to get motivated, persevere through life and find new ways to get in touch with my spiritual side. All of them have my changed my life (for the better) in some form or fashion.

When did you fall in love with hip hop?

I will never forget the day when I went to Best Buy with my mom, at 5 years old and bought my first rap tape. Kris Kross’ debut album Totally Krossed Out had me hooked from jump. I would have to think of that as my first date, but the day I truly fell in love would have to be when I heard Bone Thugs N Harmony’s “Thuggish Ruggish Bone.” The energy and the way everybody brought something different to the table but created a quality record stunned me. I never knew that I would get into writing and MC’ing because of it, but I guess life has a way of working itself out like that sometimes.

Ever since I fell in love and got married to it (as an MC) I have been doing my homework on her and understanding her more. There are times when I do not agree with the twists and turns she takes, but at the end of the day I always come back. I love this woman called hip-hop and will not stop loving her. I thank my inspirations and good friends at a young age for introducing us…

Previous work that we should know about:

I dropped my first full project The Letter in 2007 and started taking music more serious. This project came out as a shock to my family and friends because it came out of nowhere almost. I was still pretty shy about telling people I was an MC because I didn’t know if they would take me serious, but once they listened to it, they wanted more material. This made me so happy and feel better about myself and know that I was put here to do something life changing. Overall, this project had one original beat produced by Redwine for a track titled “Dear.” The majority of the project featured production from J-Dilla’s album Donuts , 9^th Wonder and Kanye West’s “Grammy Family.”

In 2008, I came out with my second project The Moment and was proud to share this with the world. The whole album comprised of original production from Astronote, Rem’, Mydus, Redwine and Zilla Rocca. There were only two vocal features from Zilla Rocca and from Redwine (who also produced 7 of 18 tracks on the album). I believe I changed people’s perspective on me as an artist and created classic tracks such as “My People” (Prod. By Astronote), “Lost In The Music” (Prod. By Mydus), and “Cowboys and Indians” (Prod. By Redwine).

Current projects we should be looking out for:

I would encourage everybody to go out and cop my my most current album The Passion (entirely produced by Mydus). You can find a free download link all over the internet and various sites that have written up reviews on it. In addition, you can find it on iTunes and support me as an artist. I truly believe this album was a testimony about life, the art of rhyme, happiness, regret success and looking forward to the future as an adult in hip-hop. The time it took me to work on this project was much longer than my first two because I wanted it to be perfect through delivery, concepts, lyrically and musically. Mydus definitely gave me the paint in order to create the perfect picture and that’s why it worked out the way it did.

Also, if you are in the Twin Cities area you can pick The Passion up at 5^th Element, Electric Fetus, Urban Lights or Cheapo.

Talk about the progression you’ve made from your first release, The Letter in 2007 to your current album, The Passion.

I can speak from two sides both musically and professionally – presentation is essential as an artist. If you look back at The Letter &The Moment, both of those projects were not mixed, mastered, the punch ins were amateur and the album covers were either taken on an iPhone, or a digital camera. I still look back and think “I want to go back and re-record all of my old material” (especially everything on The Moment because I loved every single song on that project). At the time, I used to think all it took to make good music was go in the booth, spaz out, press it up and hand CD’s out.

I didn’t change up my strategy until I started paying attention to other people’s albums, mixtapes, ep’s, singles and promotional strategies and saw how it produced significant yield. However, I had gotten so used to just sending out a facebook or myspace blast I forgot I needed to build a buzz electronically, telephonically and personally. It didn’t click until a friend of mine who is a fellow MC and producer, Zilla Rocca gave me some constructive criticism on my last two projects from a sound and visual standpoint. I remember seeing reviews where cats would complain about the levels and the mixing, but never said I was wack and always spoke highly of me, so I continued to be hard headed. In addition, I wasn’t doing the conventional song with a hook and I needed to give people a better feel for my song making capabilities.

So, the same night I had gotten in town from a business trip, I had my first performance at Station 4 on December, 12^th, 2008. This was the night I felt as if I was reborn and given a second chance, and I haven’t looked back since. After that night I went back to writing material for The Passion, doing more performances and collaborations with other talented artists such as Max Haben, Mic 101, Concentr8, Carnage, Abrasive B, Tony From Kamorra and The Wize Guyz.

The whole year of 2009 was a learning process for me. I decided I was going to promote the hell out of my album release show, flood the net with songs up until the release happened, connected with Tommey Walker of V2D Studios who created my album artwork and myspace page. I believe my entire album The Passion reflects the maturation process I went through musically and personally. Now I am working to put together an EPK, get some t-shirts, stickers, business cards because a total package is what I want to bring to the table.

Speaking of The Passion how did you connect with Miami based producer Mydus?

Mydus and I connected through myspace and 33jones.com after he heard my first album and we had a mutual respect for each other’s work to possibly create some new music in the future. Mydus sent me several beats and there were two I absolutely fell in love with. I was able to score one of the two and that “one” ended up being “Lost in the Music” currently on my second album The Moment. After the project turned out really well, even more so that particular song, Mydus propositioned me to do a whole album with him.

I was pretty excited and thought to myself “Damn, Malik this is big time…” I just sat back and thought of Skyzoo’s Cloud 9; Jean Grae’s Jeanius; Little Brother’s The Listening & The Minstrel Show; Buckshot’s Chemistry & Formula; Gangstarr records and all other MC-One Producer albums. I was honored to be involved in a project like this and decided I would do my best to create classic material as these artists before me have.

The production has a soulful vibe to it. Was that the sound you were looking for creating this album or the tracks Mydus sent you?

The tracks Mydus sent me at that point were his best work (in my opinion). It was the exact sound I was going for and that made it easy to write the material I did. Each track spoke its own language to me, and I knew I would be able to speak back to it just as good if not better. The combination between us was heaven sent and was meant to take place at the time that it did. I was more than happy to work with him because we were able to cross paths and now a lot of artists here in Minnesota want to work with him. On the other side more artists that have worked with Mydus are looking to collaborate vice versa, God willing.

The album is a lean 10 tracks with no guest features, was this intentional on your part to shine alone?

My intention wasn’t to shine alone, but it was my intention to only have 10 full well rounded songs as opposed to 7 classics and 12 fillers with 3 skits. I wanted to do what Stevie Wonder did when he made Music of my Mind or Nas when he did Illmatic. I knew that it was possible to create a full serving of food for thought without offering too much gravy, if that makes any sense. Now, when it comes to features I am stingy as hell because I want to make sure the artist is as good as me or even better. They have to mesh well with the project and understand the route I am trying to take as well. If all they want to do is drop a verse with no meaning and expect it to make the project as Papoose would say “I ain’t coming out like that…” The next project should have one or two MC’s feature, but I would like to have some more female representation on a hook or two in the future. Shit, I might even go Drake on em and sing my ass off haha jk.

My favorite song on the album is “Reflection” because of the introspective lyrics. If you had to pick one song (doesn’t have to be your own) that defines your career to date, what song would that be?

Well first off, thanks for enjoying that track because I put a lot into it. To ask me that question is wrong… Damn, that’s a tough question. If I had to pick a song that defines my career to date it would have to be “The Savior” (Prod. By Rem’) [download]. In that song I addressed pieces of my life, past encounters with MC’s saying my name and being put to rest because of it, I even spoke on some personal issues in a more cryptic manner than usual and broke down my current understanding I had for my state, how they have embraced me, neglected me etc.

The production behind the words definitely went well together since I was quite excited, angry but putting some things to a close. I also got a chance to toot my own horn about The Passion and remind people why I consider myself to be a problem and solution in the same breath.

Why should the readers and fans give you a shot and listen to your music from here on out?

I will always keep it 100 and give you my honest opinion. I believe people will get to know me without even meeting me after listening to my records. I don’t think any true fan of hip hop would want to listen to somebody who constantly talks about everything outside of themselves people support artists, not robots. My music is a representation of being Minneapolis minded but I am not stuck in a box or in another man’s shadow. I am gimmick free and make music that I know will change one’s perspective or inspire to reach for more in life. What you see is what you get… you will always get a wide range of records from me and not the same thing…

If you could only take one record on a deserted island with you, what album would that be?
Stevie Wonder’s Music of my Mind would be the album I would take with me and listen to everyday…

What’s next for you?

I will be working hard on creating two masterpiece albums with two producers out of Miami. One project will be titled The Quality of Mind produced entirely by Mydus and the other album The Essence will be produced entirely by Rem’. I look forward to working with both of these guys again and hopefully open more doors in 2010 and 2011.

While the writing and recording process is taking place for both of the records I will continue to dish out underground singles to keep people up to date on me.

Any shout outs or last words?

I would like to thank the KevinNottingham.com staff for listening to my music and giving me a chance. I would like to thank the Cobalt Commission, Sarah “Turtle” Brown (I love you and I miss you), thanks to Zilla Rocca, Fresh, Redwine, Nico The Beast, 2ew Gunn Ciz, Mike Dreams, Rem’, Mydus, The whole Minnesota, Carnage, Concentr8, Hecatomb, 925ve Crew, Mic 101, Wize Guyz. And to all aspiring artists like myself continue to work hard, be loyal, stay consistent and keep your circle full of positivity and progression. Know Mally, Know Life.

Mally Contacts:
www.myspace.com/mallyfromthe612
www.twitter.com/MaLLY612
www.facebook.com/MaLLY612

Dear (Prod. by Redwine)
From The Letter (2007) [download]

My People (Prod. By Astroblack)
From The Moment (2008) [download]

Reflection (Prod. by Mydus)
From The Passion (2009) [itunes] [CD Baby (Physical/MP3)]

No related posts.

Introducing… King Mez

Justin — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 15:30:18 +0000

King Mez is a name you’ll need to remember. With North Carolina’s hip hop scene experiencing a breakthrough in the 2000′s from the emergence of artists like Little Brother, Supastition & Median, the state has been a hot spot for hip hop. Mez is one of those highly talented newcomers like Kooley High or Thee Tom Hardy. We got the chance to speak with Mez about his thoughts on NC hip hop, how he came up in the game and what to expect form him this year. So here’s your chance to get to know King Mez.

Introduce Yourself

I’m King Mez of the Lazaretto Crew, 19 years old from Southside Raleigh, NC.

Why the name King Mez?

Mez was always my nickname, Knowledge Is Now Guiding My Everlasting Zeal is the acronym. I don’t feel like “the” king but I am one of them. Not because of my lyrical capabilities but because of the way I carry myself, fearless, humble, king like.

Who are some of your musical inspirations?

Nas, DOOM, Mos Def, Lupe Fiasco, A7X, The Gorilaz, Old Jay, Big, EPMD, Rakim, Andre 3000. I could do that all day fam.

Past projects readers should know about:

My most credible past project is Long Live The King. Still people say the Prequel to it was good bread, but I think I progressed well or a lot for that matter. Winter was my most recent, little short EP to hold em for my album.

Current projects readers should know about:

The Paraplegics, Me and producer Commissioner Gordon – I do the bars, he does the beats, some dope features on it too.

How did you link up with Commissioner Gordon?

Myspace. We both live in the same area and we both thought each other were talented. So he produced a track for Long Live The King and it was history from there.

So you spoke about some features on the album, who are some of the guests?

Well we got Donnie Vash from the Lazaretto Crew, Tab One and Charlie Smarts from Kooley High, Nickelus F, and Thee Tom Hardy as it stands now, still might have one more feature.

Nice, a lot of talent right there. What’s the meaning behind the album title The Paraplegics? Is there a theme to this album?

Yeah there definitely is. The Paraplegics is a play on words representing the people who are always dependent upon something in life. It’s like they can’t walk on their own if you know what I mean.

Now you mentioned guests like Thee Tom Hardy & Kooley High appearing on the album. North Carolina has definitely had a lot of talent emerging from it since the debuts of artists like Justus League & Supastition. Do you feel like NC is one of the hot spot regions right now?

To be honest, I do man. J. Cole, Kooley High, Thee Tom Hardy… we’re definitely making our presence known. And we are most definitely switching up some stereotypes man, word up.

Definitely. It feels like Little Brother especially opened up a lot of hip hop fans eyes to the talented in the state. You’re obviously working with other NC artists; do you think it’s important to stick together that way?

I most definitely do man, there’s nothing like showing love. It prevails over all else. With it being so convenient for talented people to get up with each other whenever we’re back home we have an advantage. We also have our own style about us, all different but all derived in chain like order. Lazaretto being one of the newer groups on the scene we definitely get influence from the more established cats who have been doing it for a while. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be able to learn from them.

Talk a little bit about the Lazaretto Crew. How did you come together?

We went to high school together, graduated in 2008. When Vash came to Garner High it was a wrap. We met through a homie (original Lazaretto member Arcane) but right now it’s just me and Don Vash. And we have a team behind us by the way. “Fotography” from my good homie and teammate Sameer of Fisdjfoto.com and our homie Courtney from Red Carpet Society, they’re our teammates.

If you had to pick one song that defines your career up to this point, what would it be?

Wow, that might have to be… Jay-Z’s “Feelin It.” “If every nigga in your clique is rich your clique is rugged/ Nobody will fold cause everyone will be each others crutches/” Thank God for the people around me.

You’re stranded on a desert island and can only have one album to listen to, what’s it gonna be?

Illmatic, hands down. April 19th 1994, the hardest album hip hop ever saw, in my opinion.

Any shout outs or last words?

Thank God man, thank everyone who takes time out of their day to hear what I have to say, thank anybody who does something significant for the greater good. And thank you guys for this opportunity.

The World

You Already Know

Effortless

Introducing… Ryan Perfect

Kevin — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 17:00:56 +0000

We’ve been dropping exclusives from Ryan Perfect all week. Now, with the release of his EP “Searching: The Lyricist Lounge Sessions 2001-2003″ in tow, we caught up with Queens-bred MC -who’s first break came when Marley Marl gave the emcee a chance to spit a radio promo for his “Future Flavors” show, and later teamed up with DJ Enuff in 2003 to release his debut mixtape “Driving Hearses”- to tap into his Perfect mind.

Look out for the KevinNottingham.com sponsored Searching EP from Ryan Perfect dropping tomorrow. For now, hit the jump to get to know Ryan Perfect…

Where you reppin:
Wherever the real reside. Wherever the heart is. Queenz, NY to be specific.

Introduce yourself:
Ryan Perfect.

Where did the name Ryan Perfect come from?
The name Ryan Perfect came from someone pronouncing my real name wrong. Instead of calling me “Mr.Burvick” they called me Mr. Perfect, and the name stuck. When I first started rapping I didn’t want to use the name “Perfect” because I thought it made me sound conceited, but when the name I was using got taken by somebody else, I went back to Ryan Perfect and found a purpose for it. The name is a path from where I am to where I’m heading. Nobody’s Perfect, but the goal is to get better.

Main musical inspirations:
Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye, Sade, Quincy Jones, Stevie Wonder, Jacques Burvick, Makaveli, Esco, Bravehearts, Mobb Deep, T.L.E., Bars n Hooks, Devin the dude, Andre 3000, Dr. Dre and Diddy.

When did you fall in love with hip hop?
When I first heard Snoop and Dre…better yet when I saw their videos on “The Box.” It was that mixed with the combination of Pac’s “I Get Around” and Nas’ “One Time For Ya Mind” that made me like hip-hop. I’m falling in love with it everyday.

Current projects we should be looking out for:
“SEARCHING: The Lyricist Lounge Sessions 2001-2003″ presented by kevinnottingham.com and “THE MESSAGE” by Ryan Perfect. It’s my follow up mixtape filled with new material. On the production end, look out for “The Definition” by Devynity. Those projects together represent me well.

Previous work that we should know about:
DRIVING HEARSES: LESSON ONE HOSTED BY DJ ENUFF. That was my first and last effort.

On the production side, what’s your equipment setup like?
I’m on CUBASE first off…Reason 4.0 with a million refills. Triton extreme w/ Korg padKonotrol…Motif Rack..an SE double tube mic, M-Audio pre amp…Motu interface, a couple instruments and a room with creativity.

If you had to pick one song that defines your career to date, what song would that be?
“SEARCHING,” first single off the “SEARCHING” EP. The title itself describes my journey. I recorded that 10 years ago and it’s still timeless. I would chose that song or Sting’s “The Shape Of My Heart.” The words describe my process.

Why should the readers and fans give you a shot and listen to your music from here on out?
They should give me a listen because the music was made with them in mind…its a “vitamin quater-water.” It’s ghetto medicine that’s designed to inspire. The music is “R.E.A.L.”- meaning Respecting Every Aspect of Life. I plan on having the most fun and having the best conversations with my fans from parties to peace to struggles. On many levels they’ve already been listening to my work, whether through ghost-production, ghost writing, consulting, engineering, to both hip-hop Legends and newcomers stealing songs and pieces of my style. I’ve been around for a minute, I’m just gonna play the “listeners” a lil’ bit closer during these times.

If you could only take one record on a deserted island with you, what album would that be?
Right now it would be Bob Marley’s Exodus. It’s powerful.

What’s next for you?
Launching RyanPerfect.com and releasing collaborative projects under the focus of my company AUDIO PICTURES.

Any shout outs or last words?
Shout to Danny Castro of the Lyricist Lounge, my cuz M. Will the Shogun, Camera Shy, Medallionz, and Nero… they believed in this “SEARCHING” project, and helped construct it after almost 10 years of it being unheard. I want to thank them and kevinnottingham.com for this opportunity.

R.I.P. Blackbox, Big Dawg and killa Sha. We still Living!!!

Searching

Audio Pictures

Introducing… G5-Gi

Kevin — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 17:33:36 +0000

G5-Gi feels like now is as good a time as any to leave his mark on the industry. He has mainstream marketability, but his stand against “cookie cutter music” is what makes him appeal to all music lovers. Out of Upstate New York G5-Gi has an unique and distinctive sound. He initially got people listening after making an appearance on DJ Green Lantern’s Monster Mash volume 2 mixtape in early 2008. Shortly thereafter, he appeared on the So Far Gone Tour with Drake.

I just recently caught on to G5-Gi a few weeks ago, so hit the jump to get to know him…

Where you reppin:

Upstate NY, where its colder than a mufo!!!

Introduce yourself:

I’m the CEO of hip-hop’s fly fraternity First Class G5-Gi aka Sean Corey. I’m an ambassador for organic hip-hop, and I am here to save the world.

Where did the name G5-Gi come from?

G.I. is acronym for ghetto intelligence, that was the name of my big brothers first EP. That EP went “Hood Gold.” You, know about 300-500 copies sold out the truck around the hood.

Main musical inspirations:

Well there are a couple phrases that inspire me the most. “No cookie cutter music” and “Rid the bullshit” But Marvin Gaye, Al Green, B.I.G., and of course the big homie Curren$y the Hotspitta all are dope spins.

When did you fall in love with hip hop?

At the age of 12. I would always go with my brother when he hit the studio. Its like he loved it and he used to tell our story through the music. I would sit there and zone out. I mean, I was a shorty, so I had to just sit there. But, the beat and the rhythm kinda just pulled me in!

Current projects we should be looking out for:

Well I been on this crazy mixtape grind. “Free Quality Music” is what I call it. I’m making sure no sleeps on me, because its free!!! So right now that’s my wave. The next title project is called Adultswim. Also, I’m working on a project with Trademark da $kydiver and Kashflow out in New Orleans – I can’t give you anymore detail than that but its dope and be on the lookout for that. Shout out $upervillan Inc.©

Previous work that we should know about:

Most definitely yo should know about DJ Green Lantern’s Monster Mash vol. 2. It was released in 2008. That’s what got the people listening to G5-Gi and taking me seriously. [shit, that’s when I started taking myself more seriously. Laughs]. More recently, I have the Ear Drum Kush tape circulating online, and the follow up, Free Lunch [download]. I also, have tracks galore floating around in cyber space – a google search [G5-Gi] should bring it all home.

If you had to pick one song that defines your career to date, what song would that be?

Willie Hutch – “The Glow” [laughing] I know you remember that old classic flick Berry Gordy wrote and directed “The Last Dragon.” It was on that sound track.

Why should the readers and fans give you a shot and listen to your music from here on out?

First and foremost, MY MUSIC IS FREE [smiles]. Also, I put my life on all these tracks. Sometimes I rap about what growin up in the hood and being different is like, sometimes I rap about what I dream about. Either way, it’s me raw uncut and unscripted. I package it all up in a cool ass delivery for you. In my music there is something for everyone. Even my mom’s listen to it – the dope boys and skateboarders are diggin it too. Oh, and did I mention its Free?

If you could only take one record on a deserted island with you, what album would that be?

It would have to be Queens Bridge native Nature “For all Seasons” Album hands down.

What’s next for you?

Besides my reign of “killin these blogs,” I’m gonna continue this six month run of putting out free quality music and hoping the world just knows my name and my music when that run is complete. I’ve learned that with the direction of music, for an artist to be respected you have to prove yourself and keep giving people product. I will continue to rage war against the machine I’ll tell you that much. I just want everyone to know my name honestly.

Any shout outs or last words?

Shout out to my team First Class that’s my team look out for them, I’m just the cover boy for a fly fraternity of rap spitters. Trust me! Shout out my manager D. Jackson. Shout out $upervillain Inc©, most importantly, Shout out everyone reading this post and to my fans old and new, and anyone who has ever took the time to listen to a G5-Gi track because without all of you my voice would be null and void. Oh and definitely shout out Kevin Nottingham (dot) com for looking out and keeping the people in the know about who is up next in the game. Let me just say shout out to anyone I didn’t mention, if you showed me love and been down the whole crazy ride you know who you are, so charge it to my brain and not my heart.

Psychotic Hypnotic

Let Me Know

You Know

Introducing…The Raid

Thomas — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 18:00:53 +0000

The Raid’s rap style has not only been influenced by Hip-Hop pioneers, but also Rock, R&B, Classical, and other genres of music. In addition to his skills as an emcee, The Raid also plays numerous instruments and produces his own music.

We just blessed you all with a link to his debut album, Primordial [download]; now get to know the man in his own words.

Where you reppin:
Washington, DC

Introduce yourself:
Sup everybody! I’m known as The Raid. I mostly do conscious hip-hop, but I also write and produce for all forms of media.

Where did the name The Raid come from?:
In school I was pretty low-key. I played the loner role and never really showed emotion. But whenever I grabbed that mic, I’d slowly build intensity and then BOOM!!! I’d exploded out of nowhere – pure energy! Because of this, people described my rap style as “bringing the raid”, and over the years, the name stuck!

Main musical inspirations?:
For the longest time my main inspiration was strictly hip-hop and r&b. But as I began learning instruments, my influences expanded into other genres such as rock, classical and country. At some point in high school I was exposed to music from other countries which changed my life! For example, I remember hearing French/Arab hip-hop for the first time – straight blew my mind! Since then, I’ve tried to incorporate a diverse range of sounds as well as lyrical subjects into my own music as a token of homage to the global appeal of hip-hop music.

When did you fall in love with hip hop?:
1996 did it for me! I’ll never forget all of the hot albums that dropped that year, most of which are classics today. To list them all would take hours, but I can’t remember another time with as many different artists and as many different styles. It was as if the entire industry was a starving artist and had something to prove!

What is the DC music scene like right now? Where do you think you fit?:
DC has been doing its thing for a long time, and we’ve had some great emcees that have made names for themselves such as Storm the Unpredictable and most recently Wale. But there’s still a lot of unheard talent in DC and I think the city is slowly developing its own unique style. As of right now, I’m just starting out. But my plan is to connect with and develop like-minded artists and truly put DC on the map as it deserves.

Current projects we should be looking out for:
I’m working on a couple of projects outside of music. Most notably is a book I’ve written that will be available on Amazon.com later this year. It’s called the The Realmsic Conquest. It’s a fantasy epic adventure about a magical kingdom that has never known peace. The book is also written completely in rhyme but is extremely easy to read. I did this not only to follow the tradition of other epic adventures, but also to demonstrate how rhyme skills could be utilized outside of songwriting.

Previous work that we should know about?:
I’ve written for a number of media projects including a hip-hop animated series entitled “Beneath the World Order” (www.bwocartoon.com). But Primordial is my first major music project.

What’s your equipment setup like?:
I’ve got a PC based digital set-up and I use two main programs for production – Propellerhead Reason for music arrangements, and Adobe Audition for vocal recording and mastering. It’s amazing the quality you can achieve with software now-a-days. But as for Primordial, I got a lot of mastering techniques from my man, Mr. Fantaztix, who most people know from the Frank Zappa project that was featured on KN last October.

If you had to pick one song (doesn’t have to be your own) that defines your career to date, what song would that be?:
“One Way” by BB Jay, featured on Universal Concussion (2000). It’s as if he made that song especially for me!

Why should the readers and fans give you a shot and listen to your music from here on out?:
If you love hip-hop music, but have been frustrated with its direction in recent years, then you’re ready for me. Simple as that.

If you could only take one record on a deserted island with you, what album would that be?:
Fugees: The Score (1996)

What’s next for you?:
A few things. Collaborating on tracks with other artists is a must! I’m also still working with my p-n-c’s that were featured on Primordial, Sunfire (Harmotional) and Fat C (This Is My Club Hit). I’m also currently writing a second book project entitled The Primordial Manuscript which is a guidebook for anyone interested in digital production and distribution for their music projects. I produced, recorded and engineered my own album using digital production techniques and I want to show others how I did it. By empowering other aspiring artists with the knowledge to take full control of their own music and create from the heart, perhaps in time, we can change the direction of hip-hop.

Any shout outs or last words?:
I just want to thank KN for taking the time to speak with me, as well as all supporters and everyone in the Raid-Camp! I’m really looking to connect with people who’re ready to make a difference in hip-hop, so fan me up on Facebook; send me messages; leave me comments. Peace!

Introducing…Lawrence Arnell

Thomas — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 18:00:57 +0000

Philly based rapper Lawrence Arnell was signed to Tommy Boy Records at the age of 19, along with the collective The Deadly Snakes. The Deadly Snakes had tour dates on the Lyricist Lounge Tour and a placement on the Black Mask soundtrack. Unfortunately, The Deadly Snakes were released from their deal. Lawrence fell back from the music scene, but has returned to the game along with Dave Ghetto and Dame Anthony to form Ghetto Rock Star. Enough of the talking….lets get to know Lawrence Arnell.

Reppin: Philly, PA.

Intro: My name is Lawrence Arnell aka Larry Legend and previously known by many as L. Dorado.

Musical inspirations: Marvin Gaye, Curtis Mayfield, The Roots, and Doobie Brothers.

Fell in love with hiphop: 1987, when I was nine we moved to Fairmount Ave and everybody in my new neighborhood was rhymin. It was just what they did around there. I tried my hand at it and I guess I was pretty good cuz everybody wanted to be my partner, I was like 9 years old.

Current projects: My man Vinnie Paz of Jedi Mind Tricks has a solo album comin out that I’m slated to be on; as well as the fourth album from Outerspace.

Previous work: I have worked with Dave Ghetto on his Love Life album, I recently featured on a really popular song with Outerspace called “Our Father.” That’s one I’m real proud of and it’s gettin tons of love.

Defining song: I would have to say it is one of my own songs, “Movin’” [download] It discusses my life in general, from work to family to music. I mean when it’s all said and done no matter what life is throwing at you; you gotta keep moving.

Why should readers listen: Because my music is some of the most honest and thoughtful material you will ever find. I have a 100% reality guarantee with my music. I will not lie to you for the sake of money or for wow factor. I talk about what’s happen to and around me with no exaggeration. There’s enough artists pretending to be something they’re not, that market’s been cornered.

Desert island record: Brown Sugar by D’angelo, 10 tracks short and sweet, and every song is crazy, that dude is talented as fuck!

What’s next: I’m working on a project that is intended to change the way people approach music from all angles. Whether you are a listener or an artist yourself I want to rewrite the rules for you. My goal is to be what I call “Definitively Indefinable.”

Shouts: Break Bread Projects, Q Dimension, Dave Ghetto, Outerspace, King Syze, Nex Millen, Damadelphia, Vinnie Paz, Fel Sweetenburg, Vega X, Balti and Dj Killa from Tunisia. Everybody that’s held me down all along you know where we going.

Introducing… Ohini Jonez

Justin — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 15:15:05 +0000

When I first heard Ohini Jonez, I knew he had a gift that needed to be shared. Offering a unique blend of storytelling with southern flavor, Ohini is poised to make an impact. With his music finally getting its deserved exposure, opportunities are opening up for the Georgia emcee. After an active 2009, 2010 looks to be a big year with lots of projects planned and talented producers like Tokyo Cigar, Danimal, Jack Boi, Lakim & his cousin Scoota working with him. Paper Street Music is the movement, here’s your chance to get to know Ohini Jonez!

Introduce Yourself:

Sup interwebz it’s Ohini Jonez, live from Brunswick GA repping Paper Street Music.

Where did the name Ohini Jonez come from?

My first EP was Kimoni Ohini and Asshole Jonez – Sleep Deprivation. They were split personalities, and at the end they merged and became one. Ohini is a word from Ghana, meaning Chief, and Jonez is a regular name. Basically I’m the Chief Rocker of the Regular Man.

Current projects readers should be looking out for:

Hole In The Heart [download] just dropped, so did Tibetan Geechee Voodoo Magik [download]. Both projects, like all my work, are intensely personal. So I hope you enjoy.

The music reflects where I’m at constantly, my current projects could update at any time because I like people to hear how I’m feeling, where I’m at emotionally, mentally and musically.

Previous work that readers should know about:

Ikarus Fell [download] is what I feel to be my most intense project. I was going through a lot of life changes, I’m still at a crossroads, and that project reflected my conflicted spirituality and attitudes about life. The rock samples used for it from the grunge and heavy metal era’s helped develop the lyrics. its also the last project I handled 100% of the production on. I feel like anyone who likes good music with a personal touch would love that record. I left my happiness, sadness, rage, and lust all on the table with that.

Who are your musical inspirations?

From the hip hop perspective, Dungeon Family, Nappy Roots, Atmosphere, Brother Ali and Wu Tang. Cats like Max Minelli, Deacon Da Villian, and Jay Electronica have lit a fire under my ass musically in recent years; the creativity and mastery of the craft is what drives me. From a non hip hop perspective, I admire Carlos Santana. On the Woodstock movie, he talked about how he was on mescalin and the guitar transformed into a snake… I want to achieve a similar oneness with my vocal instrument and watch it become a greater extension of myself.

You’ve been working with your cousin and Jack Boi lately, what has that experience been like?

My cousin Scoota, he did 3/5ths of Life Death and Entertainment. I just wanted him to get some shine, that boy’s been great at making beats since he was a toddler, banging trash cans, going into the bathroom and closets searching for proper acoustics. He’s a prodigy, but he makes more commercial music than I do. We’re gonna link up on my next project though, get some live instrumentation popping..

Jack Boi is a whole nother creature in his own right. He’s wildly creative, check Devil’s Rejects from Hole In The Heart, he completely bodied the production. He’s soulful, crunk, and dark at the same time. Our crew Jawjuh (me, Jack Boi, RedClay) is gonna do an EP in Jan/Feb 2010, its gonna be massive.

Who else are you working with?

Tokyo Cigar is my ace boon coon, we got an EP of some different music coming around Jan/Feb/maybe March. Can’t spoil the surprise, its just going to be a different approach to hip hop and music in general, that brother’s a genius.

I’m also working with Atrax Beats, he did five sixths of Tibetan Geechee Voodoo Magik. He’s so soulful, he brings a different level of energy out of me, he makes me emote over tracks with a lot of candor. Swordsman is someone else I’m working with, I got a project with Danimal coming when things settle down. Lakim is the truth as well… Mostly producers, I’m always in a straight forward zone, I work too fast to collab with a lot of rappers. B Dubb is a head from Florida I’ve been working with since 05, he’s coming back out just because of the steam behind Paper Street Music right now…

Is it difficult coming out of a small town in Georgia when Atlanta is the focal point of the hip hop scene?

You have no idea… I love Atlanta, with all my heart, but it’s crazy when the world expects the same attitude to come from a different area. We’re really hurting down here in Brunswick, its a grimier environment from Savannah to Valdosta to Albany to Macon. These even smaller areas like Wrightsville, Darien, Fort Valley and others are literally dying, but there’s beauty in that struggle. When you try to capture that as an artist though, people would rather hear about that Atlanta perspective.

If you had to pick one song that defines your career up to this date, what song would that be?

“Ikarus Fell Really Hard”, it shows all the things and thought processes I’ve had to either let go of or develop to become a focused rapper. I’ve always rhymed, but I never understood my place in life, that was shown in my music. Really, all of Ikarus Fell defines that, just personal growth. I had to become a man before I could pursue this music with the proper dedication.

Why should the readers and fans give you a shot and listen to your music from here on out?

Because I come from the heart and I do it for those people, regardless of location, that had a bad day at their regular job, their woman/man is getting on their nerves, bills are past due, and they just need some relatable music to bump. Life is a beautiful struggle, and I found freedom from my personal struggle in artists like Cunninglynguists, Brother Ali, Outkast, Goodie Mob, Field Mob… dudes who helped me escape… I’m providing the same hopefully

What’s next for you?

More music, thats it. The Jawjuh EP is coming soon, the project with Tokyo is coming soon. Basically I’m going to just try and hold everything together until we get the opprotunity to do this for a living. Right now music is a labor of love, and all labors of love will get you rewarded. Honestly, my best reward came when someone emailed me and told me that “If Life Sucks Buy That Bitch a Tongue Ring” (From Sleep Deprivation 2) helped them try and explain addiction to their family, I felt better than I could’ve if I sold a million records…

If you were stranded on a desert island and could only have one album to listen to, what would it be?

Thats easy… Outkast: Aquemini. Andre 3000=GOAT… print that

Any shout outs or last words

This is gonna be long: Georgia, South Carolina, Florida, Tennessee, Alabama, North Carolina, Virginia, Kentucky, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas y’all made me. Up North MidWest, out West Worldwide thank you for your support and contributions to the culture that is hip hop. My whole family (too big to name), Guage, we been doing this since 95, friends since 87, you my comrade continue the support. Mac, Sancho, No Sense, Pap, EA, Pompey, Big Brother G and Yank thanks for holding me down at college. Cee-Lo for writing the verse that made me go to school (“I Refuse Limitation”), and Slug for writing the song that made me get a grasp on reality (“God’s Bathroom Floor”)… Hip Hop literally saved my life on a couple occasions. The whole Paper Street fam, you know what it is… peace Justin, thanks for the exposure.

Ikarus Fell Really Hard

Scraps Off God’s Concrete

The Goodness

Producer Spotlight: G.C.

Kevin — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 18:00:51 +0000

For our one of last Producer Spotlights of 2009, I wanted to showcase someone that I personally believe in 110%. I first got hip to G.C.‘s production about a year and a half ago during one of our weekly remix contests. Soon after, I became his manager and have worked with G.C. on countless projects this past year. Since we are releasing his first compilation mixtape today [download], it was only right to give G.C. the spotlight and let you know the man behind the beats.

Hit the cut to get to know G.C…..

Where you reppin:

I was raised just north of the DC border in Silver Spring, MD. I represent the MD/DC/VA area, although I currently live in Utah.

Introduce yourself:

I am a hip hop head who has a deep love for boom bap drums and sick samples. I feel like my love for what the legends of the production game have done has deeply influenced my game, and I hope it shows in my music.

Where did the name G.C. come from?

Ok, I think this story is worth going through. When I started to emcee back in 1996, I was in a group called “The Chinese Connection” (Yes, Bruce Lee was and STILL IS that DUDE!)…what up Frank! Anyways, I met up with another emcee who told me, “Man you shouldn’t have the name you have, you’re more like the Golden Child! And you spit like a cobra…you should be Cobra the Golden Child!” I ran with it (I didn’t know better), and when I joined my first pseudo-professional group, the “leader” of the group was like, “I’ll battle you for the name Cobra…” I wasn’t about to battle the guy who I thought was going to be signing me just for a name I had no vested interest in, so I dropped Cobra and left it as The Golden Child. Over time, people started calling me G.C., and the name just stuck.

Main musical inspirations:

I think my main production inspirations came from the heavyweights – Preem, Pete Rock, Large Pro, Muggz, Alchemist, RZA, Lord Finese, etc. My musical inspiration came from a number of avenues. Wu-Tang Clan and all their affiliates were a major influence on my musicality growing up. I used to emcee, and O.C. was one of my first lyrical inspirations, which got me really deep into DITC – another heavy sampling influence. Portishead and Massive Attack are also high on my list – particularly the way they seemed to manipulate between samples and free space. (Listen to Portishead’s “Biscuit” and pay close attention to the second kick drum, particularly in the first couple measures. The drum seems to descend into some sort of space, and about three measures into the verse they include a really faint piano sample over top that just fits so perfectly between the cymbals!) There are many others, but those are some of the key ones.

When did you fall in love with hip hop?

I had always been a fan of hip hop to a degree, but the day the tables completely flipped on me was the day a friend of mine introduced me to Enter the 36th Chamber in his basement. That day will forever live in infamy!

Current projects we should be looking out for:

I have a project coming out in February that is a solo emcee/solo producer venture with K. Sparks called A Day In The Life. The production is nuts on this album; I am very proud of this work! I am also working on a beat tape tentatively called The Play Room…I am not going to discuss the details, but the concept is so dope; I cannot wait to let y’all check it out!

Previous work that we should know about:

I recently completed another cohesive solo emcee/solo producer venture called $5 Cover with MaG [download]. This album was very well put together and is definitely worth downloading. I also recently did an EP with Tokyo Cigar entitled Before There Was Fire… The Cave Kingz [download]. This was yet another emcee/producer project (I hope to bring back this dynamic in hip hop, it provides a wholeness to an album you can’t get with cherry-picking) and definitely worth downloading. Other tracks are floating around the internet, but I have produced for Fokis, Punchlyne, Jermiside, Malicious, Trav Williams, etc.

What’s your equipment setup like?

I wish you had asked me this question 5 years ago! LOL Well, I used to have a complete production studio with a couple keyboards (Roland XP-30, MOTIF 6), turntables, mixing boards, mic, and digital production setup. I have since been forced to downsize (life happens) and I am currently working on a digital platform. I use Fruity Loops 8 (been using it since FL3) for sequencing, instrumentation and mastering, and I use Sound Forge for sampling, looping and additional effects.

If you had to pick one song that defines your career to date, what song would that be?

I would have to say “Bring the Ruckus” from Enter the 36th Chamber. The moment that song hit, it reshaped my future, paved the path I am currently on, and became responsible for allowing me to be having this interview with you right now. In the words of Ason, “Wu-tang is for the Children!!”

Why should the readers and fans give you a shot and listen to your music from here on out?

I think that I bring back a flavor that has been missing as of late. For those that remember, 93-96 was the golden age of boom bap hip hop. Everything mainstream sounded underground, it was all about massive group tracks and features, the beats were simple yet so hypnotic and dope (check out Group Home’s album or “Real Live Shit” for some key examples)…I think that essence has been lost by most of the industry. My goal is to fuse the essence I spoke of with a current twist on every song I produce.

If you could only take one record on a deserted island with you, what album would that be?

I’d have to say Jay-Z – Reasonable Doubt. That album is flawless front to back, and I never tire of listening to it.

What’s next for you?

It’s always about moving forward. I still have a ton of singles and projects I am working on, and always looking to work with new talent.

Any shout outs or last words?

Big shout to the homie Kev for believing in me and what I represent, big shout out to all the emcees and producers I grew up with, all the artists I have worked with, all the music sessions with Tokyo and some Chinese Food (what up Mayflower – love your General Tso’s!)…and to all the fans, thanks for listening and appreciating what I do.

Introducing… BP & ODDS

Kevin — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 16:00:23 +0000

As hip hop naturally explores new dimensions of sound, refreshingly, BP & ODDS bring listeners back in a way that pays homage to, upholds tradition of, and adds their own flavor atop honest hip hop music from the soul. Boom bap: not a common phrase used when talking about hip hop out of Los Angeles, describes the sound, vibration, and overall philosophy of BP & ODDS’ music; speaking to the emphasis placed on beats and rhymes. In the fashion of EPMD, Pete Rock and CL Smooth, and Gang Starr to name a few, BP & ODDS look to add to the collection of prolific producer/MC duos with their brand of original hiphop music.

Imagine intricate, heart-felt lyrics from a true, West Coast MC, over illustrious basslines, snappy-swingy drums, and melodic-yet-hypnotizing sounds creating a boom bap-inspired-2009 till infinity-on a -quest-type vibe with utmost respect for the culture. This is truly west coast hiphop unheard: explorative MCing and undeniably dope beats.

Where you reppin:

Los Angeles

Introduce yourself:

BP & ODDS are producer/MC duo buttonpusha and oddsequence, the boom bap novelists. Los Angeles hiphop at its finest. Producer, buttonpusha and MC, Oddsequence (formerly of Jupitersciples: Los Angeles underground).

Where did your names BP & ODDS come from?

The name stands for ButtonPusha & Oddsequence. self-proclaimed “boom bap novelists”

Main musical inspirations:

Early 90′s “golden age” hiphop music and culture. The Pharcyde, Pete Rock & CL Smooth, Tribe Called Quest, Freestyle Fellowship, Organized Konfusion

When did you fall in love with hip hop?

BP: fell in love in ’86 breakdancing to SoulSonic Force.

ODDS: fell in love in ’88 with Run-DMC’s “Tougher Than Leather”

Current projects we should be looking out for:

“The Medium” album featuring El Da Sensei of the Artifacts and Insight: available on CD, vinyl, and mp3

Previous work that we should know about:

“The Hi’s and Lo’s” EP (2008)
Venomous Age 12″ as Jupitersciples (2004)
CTO 12″ as Jupitersciples (2001)

BP, what’s your equipment setup like?

MPC 2000XL, Akai S950 for basslines, microkorg, a solid record collection, various hardware and rack

If you had to pick one song that defines your career to date, what song would that be?

THE MEDIUM album from beginning to end. a conceptual album.

Why should the readers and fans give you a shot and listen to your music from here on out?

BP & ODDS is honest music from the soul by a highly talented producer with undeniably dope beats and a dope, veteran MC with honest, poetic observations, insights, and anecdotes to what we all can relate to. BP & ODDS looks to move forward and bring their HipHop music into the future.

If you could only take one record on a deserted island with you, what album would that be?

BP: Pete Rock & CL Smooth’s “The Main Ingredient” and The Roots’ “Do You Want More”

ODDS: Organized Konfusion “Stress: the Extinction Agenda” and Bob Marley’s “Uprising”

What’s next for you?

“The Gradient” EP drops January 2010 as a free download.

Any shout outs or last words?

bpandodds.com bpandodds.blogspot.com and vimeo.com/bpandodds… stay updated

The Gift

The Medium

Ultra Magnetics

Introducing… TAO & Defizit

Kevin — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 15:00:18 +0000

We get a TON of music here at KevinNottingham.com and every now and then there will be a submission that gets me personally excited… something that tells me “wow, these cats get it; they breathe this hip hop shit.” This emcee/producer team from the Bay area, TAO & Defizit, did just that. Two young cats who grew up listening to nothing by hip hop… this is the new generation.

Hit the jump to get to know TAO & Defizit and download their project, Before We Knew!

Where you reppin:

TAO (San Francisco, CA)

Defizit (Stockton, California)

Introduce yourself:

TAO – 18 year old emcee from the city by the Bay. My style consists of complex, multisyllabic lyrics laced with bay area steelo! I probably grind harder than you and spit sicker than you. Dont give a fuck about the trends or none of that!

Defizit – 23 year old beatmaker hailing from Stockton, California. I grew up listening to hip hop music, moved to san francisco, and became immersed in sample based production and crate digging. My style consists of layered, tuned, & manipulated chops from multiple records, dirty drums, and ill basslines.

Where did your names come from?

TAO – T, A, and O are my initials!

Defizit – Honestly we’re living in 2009 , we hear the word deficit on a daily basis. It’s the word deficit just spelled differently. Then my boy tagged it out for me and it looked dope so it just stuck. Theres a deficit of dope hip hop being made these days I’m just tryin to change that.

Main musical inspirations:

TAO – mob figaz, nas & AZ, doom, 3stacks, and sean price

Defizit – jel, pete rock, thes one, kev brown, dj premier, and rza to name a few. it would take all day to list all of my favorite producers.

When did you fall in love with hip hop?

TAO & Defizit (in unison) – The first time I ever heard it!!!

Current projects we should be looking out for:

TAO & Defizit – Before We Knew. It’s our latest album that was just released last month. 10 tracks of only the rawest shit – no gimmicks! [download]

Defizit, what’s your equipment setup like?

Defizit – I keep it real basic. I used to have a lot more gear but I realized it was sort of getting in the way of my creativity. I downsized a bit and now I just work with an MPC 2000XL, SP 404, Technics SL1200, Vestax PMC 05III mixer, and pro tools 8. That’s it! I’m looking to cop a Moog synth pretty soon though just to add a little more flavor!

Why should the readers and fans give you a shot and listen to your music from here on out?

Defizit - We make music from the heart, without focusing on what the latest trends are. We’re not trying to necessarily appeal to a select demographic, we just put out the shit that we would enjoy listening to. We keep the concept simple – ill beats, and dope rhymes. Our music can appeal to anyone that was a fan of that mid 90′s NYC sound, while at the same time appealing to fans of bay area hip hop simply due to the fact that our music is a hybrid of those two elements!

If you could only take one record on a deserted island with you, what album would that be?

Defizit – I would have to say P.U.T.S. – Question in the Form of an Answer. That album just brings me back to a happier place, and its one of the albums that got me into beatmaking seriously.

What’s next for you?

Defizit – Always working on developing new styles and progressing. Just look for me to keep getting better and hopefully getting more people to listen! TAO – I be on some next-gen space shit in my mind forreal. Dont give a fuck about the trends or none of that. i just make slaps and will continue to keep doin that!

Any shout outs or last words?

TAO & Defizit – Peep our latest album Before We Knew by downloading it for free!

Audio Graffiti (For Those Who Can’t See Me)

Reminisce

Where I Must Be