Dre Day Tragidy

My boy K-Rocks writes:

This past weekend Andre Young Jr., the son of rap legend Dr. Dre was found in his Woodland Hills home at the age of 20. The tragedy struck at the worst possible time, with the Dr. working on his latest and final album, "Detox." It's every parents worst nightmare to out live their children, but especially for someone like Dre, one man who is responsible for so many successful hip hop artists. He helped out the careers of rap stars like Eminem, The Game, and 50 Cent (unfortunately). He says it best himself:

"Who you think taught you to smoke trees?
Who you think brought you the oldies?
Eazy-E's, Ice Cube's, and D.O.C's
The Snoop D-O-double-G's
and the group that said mother-"Fuck Tha Police"
Gave you tape full of dope beats
to bump when you stroll through in your hood
And when your album sales wasn't doin too good
who's the Doctor they told you to go see?"

The only group to have such an impact on today's hip-hop, in my opinion, would be the Wu-Tang Clan, but Dre is only one man, and has done more in his career than most rappers could even hope. He has established his movie career with rolls in "The Wash" and "Training Day." I believe he has put together one of the most impressive resume in hip hop history.

I'll leave you with a few hits.
Dr. Dre ft. Snoop Dogg-Deep Cover
Dr. Dre ft. Snoop Dogg-Still D.R.E.
Dr. Dre-It's Like That [Supposed first single off Detox]
N.W.A.-Fuck Tha Police
N.W.A.-Express Yourself
Crooked I-Say Dre

Other tracks worth coppin':
Dr. Dre-Nuthin' but a 'G' Thang
Dr. Dre-California Love
Dr. Dre-Zoom
Dr. Dre-Forgot About Dre
Dr. Dre-The Next Episode
Dr. Dre-Bad Intentions
N.W.A-Straight Outta Compton
N.W.A-Dope Man
N.W.A.-Boyz-N-the Hood
N.W.A.-8-Ball

Props to my man, Orlando Magic.

Can't Even Trip Because I'm Laughin' At Ya

There are two reasons I came up with that would explain why you wouldn't find the following video as funny.

1. You don't know enough about about the Carters to understand their depictions in the video.
2. You are one of the millions of people who believe Lil' Wayne is "the best rapper alive."

For anyone that tried to see this video earlier and it didn't work, I re-uped the video for ya.

This video is from the same humorous brothas that brought you this masterpiece a while back.

Rubberband Stacks of Tracks

If you don't know how I operate when it comes to my music, once I get around to downloading tracks I do it all at once and make myself a new playlist, and I get the chance to, I post the tracks so I'm not the only one enjoying 'em.

I'm letting the readers in on a few of my past playlists since it's been a while. As you scan the last and check the tracks, you might find yourself sayin' that the tracks older, but remember so is the respective playlist.

Without further a due, here are those tracks, and be sure to check out the material I provide for you on the right hand panel.

Old
Busta Rhymes ft. Lil' Wayne, Ludacris - Throw It Up
Busta Rhymes - You Don't Want None
Common ft. Pharrell - Announcement
The Game ft. Keyshia Cole, Jadakiss, Bun B, Pusha T, Fat Joe, Young Buck - Pain Remix
The Game - Dope Boys
Gillie Da Kid - Do Ya Job
Killer Mike - 10 G's
Lil' Wayne - Never Get It
Memphis Bleek - No Drought
Mickey Factz ft. Fresh Daily - Keep Moving
Musiq Soulchild - Radio
Nas - I'm On
Nas - Sly Fox
Nas ft. Chris Brown, The Game - Make The World Go Round
Noreaga ft. Lil' Wayne - Still On The Run
Papoose - Brooklyn
Papoose - Straight Stuntin'
Pharoahe Monch ft. Erykah Badu - The Healer/Hip-Hop Remix
TI - Swing Your Rag
TI - What Up

Older
Busta Rhymes ft. Reek Da Villian, Spliff Star, Lil' Wayne, The Game, Big Daddy Kane - Don't Touch Me Remix
The Clipse - Fast Life
David Banner ft. Lil' Wayne, Busta Rhymes - La La La
DMX ft. Freeway - Where Ya Been
Jadakiss ft. Rashad - Bang, Bang
Jae Millz - That Cash
Kanye West ft. Colin Monroe, Lupe Fiasco, Matthew Santos, The Clipse, Jay-Z, Wale - Flashing Lights Remix
Lil' Wayne ft. Jay-Z - Mr. Carter
Lil' Wayne ft. Kanye West - Lollipop Remix
Nas - Hero
Rick Ross ft. Pharrell - Get Down
Saigon - Believe It
Styles P ft. Gillie Da Kid - Cannon
Styles P ft. Wyclef Jean - Understand Me
Three 6 Mafia ft. Pimp C - I Got
Young Jeezy ft. Kanye West - Put On

Oldest
Ace Hood ft. Rick Ross, T Pain, DJ Khaled - Cash Flow
Busta Rhymes - Where My Money
The Game ft. Keyshia Cole - Pain
The Game ft. Lil' Wayne - Who Run It
Hot Rod ft. Akon, Freeway - Hustleman
Lil' Flip ft. Jay-Z - Deep In The South
Papoose - Die Like A G
Pharoahe Monch - Broken Heart
The Roots ft. Dice Raw, Wahud Ahmad - The Grand Return
Swizz Beatz - Where The Cash At
TI - No Matter What
Young Buck - All Eyes On Me
Young Buck - My Interview



I should have one more playlist post for you lucky readers in a few days, plus I'll be working on starting up my Top 10 list yet again.

What Else Should A Brotha Do

Some call it hipster rap, others call it alternative. Whatever it is, Kidz In The Hall are a talented underground rap duo that have been putting out solid music since 2006. Earlier this year, they released the song Driving Down The Block, off The In Crowd, that I immediately saw as a certified banger.

I wasn't the only one with these positive thoughts, though. Rappers from every walk of the industry became interested in this jam and the group began to release a series of remixes, all of which I've brought to you today. Each of these following tracks have been boasted by the last few of my playlists.

Kidz In The Hall - Drivin' Down The Block
The song that made it all possible.

Kidz In The Hall ft. El-P - Drivin' Down The Block Remix
Rapper, producer, and founder of the Def Jux label, El-P, took the song, added his own verses, and flipped the beat to release an independent rap take on the track.

Kidz In The Hall ft. Pusha T of The Clipse, Bun B, The Cool Kids - Drivin' Down The Block Remix
This was the first remix to take major rappers and make this song all too hot. Note that two of the featured artists here are also featured on my Go Hard post.

Kidz In The Hall ft. Pacific Division, Tyga, Glasses Malone, Mistah F.A.B. - Driving Down The Block Remix
The final and most recent remix to date takes a West Coast twist on the track. This version features the most obscure rapping additions but the Left Coast feel is a nice touch.


This is all for the first post of many.
Much more to come, soon.

We Got It For Cheap

More specifically, we got it for free - freestyles that is.

These aren't freestyles in the sense that the artists are posted on the block rap battlin' off the top of their heads. These freestyles are when a rapper takes another brotha's track and spits a new verse over it. They might be doing this to bank off the tracks established popularity, because they liked the beat, or because they though they could do they track better than the original. Below are a few recent ones I've been listening to.

Joell Ortiz - Summertime In Brooklyn Freestyle :: One of the most unappreciated lyricists today.
Papoose - Live and Learn Freestyle :: Keep 'em comin', Pap.
Chamillionaire - Hero Freestyle :: Decent, but doesn't hold a candle to the Nas original.
Freeway - Hero Freestyle :: I needed to have this addition after the original post because Free goes that hard.
Peedi Crakk - Dey Know Freestyle :: Peedi Peedi > Shawty Lo.
Skyzoo - Dear Summer Freestyle :: Hipster rapper does well on Jay's older track.


And everyone and their mom did a freestyle over Dwayne's A Milli. This is a very small selection of 'em, and the winner is Jay.
Chamillionaire - A Milli Freestyle
Fabolous - A Milli Freestyle
Chris Brown - A Milli Freestyle
Jay-Z - A Billi

Grade-A Beef

G- G- G- G-unit is ga- ga- ga- grudging.

This all started when Fifty decided that it would be a smart move to kick another, more-talented artist out of his gang of rappers (i.e. The Game). He went and released Young Buck and then proceeded to show how much of a fool he was by starting beef with the former clique member.

As I recently informed you in my post, Go Hard, this down-south gangsta is rapping better than he's ever been, so he wasn't the best target for Curtis to attack, but to him the plan seemed full-proof. He released a year-old, taped cellphone conversation between him and Young Buck where Buck got emotional over his status in G-Unit to prove how much tougher he was than Nashville rapper.

In response, Young Buck, aided by The Game, lyrically tore 50 to shreads and left him a failure, and I believe Buck said it best when he stated, "The only people that tape conversations is 5-0."


Young Buck - The Taped Conversation
The Game - Taped Convo
Bonus: Young Buck - Terminate On Sight

Ready For Lift Off

A recurring theme in the world of rap and hip-hop is spittin' rhymes and metaphors about space and all things unearthly. These tracks aren't secluded to underground, nerdy rap artists and tracks. We see even mainstream and gangsta rappers with out of this word phraseology.

Extraterrestrials
Cannibal Ox - Iron Galaxy
DangerDoom - Space Ho's Remix
Deltron 3030 - Positive Contact
Jedi Mind Trick ft. Binary Star - Masters of the Universe

A More Familiar Species
Common ft. Pharrell - Universal Mind Control
Gucci Mane - My Plug Is An Alien
Lil' Wayne - Phone Home
Young Jeezy ft. Fabo - Spaceships on Bankhead

Go Hard

It's been way too long since I last hooked my readers up with what's hot and let 'em know what's not, and I'm going to try my best to make up for all that I have missed. Below, I've featured a few artists that I think are going real hard right now, in no particular order. These songs that I'm hooking you up with below fall into some of the playlist posts I plan on hittin' you up with soon.

Young Buck
I feel like since he was kicked out of the Unit, he has become a completely different rapper. His verses hit so much harder, everything about it is so much rawer, and you really get a feel for him as an individual rapper. He's regained his creative license and is no longer held back by those who have fallen off.

Soundscan
I'm Out Here
Move On
My Whole Life

The Cool Kids
These dudes keep peaking my interest with every jam they release. Each song has it's own individual retro feel that the duo consistently sticks to through both the beats and the bars, plus it helps to have a wardrobe this tight. From their newest EP, The Back Sale, to the recently downloaded That's Stupid Mixtape, Chuck and Mikey keep me wanting more. Who else could rap about bikes and Nikes and keep it so fresh?

Unos
A Little Bit Cooler
Mikey Rocks
Black Mags
Pump Up The Volume Remix

That's Stupid Mixtape
Rhapsody Commercial

Pharrell and N.E.R.D
After Mr. William's break from his group to explore a solo career, he returned to his funk/rock/dance/alternative/soul/experimental/hip-hop roots to begin work on the band's third full length album, Seeing Sounds. The overwhelming description of their style that I just left you with is the soul reason that their sound is so nice right now. I mean, it doesn't hurt to have a group that is two-thirds comprised of the production greats, The Neptunes. N*E*R*D is going hard right now and in a completely different respect than any other artist on this list.

Spazz
Lazer Gun Carying
Everyone Nose
Everyone Nose Remix (ft. Kanye West, Lupe Fiasco, Pusha T of The Clipse)

Young Chris
You may or may not remember Young Chris as one half of the Roc-A-Fella rap duo, The Young Gunz (see Can't Stop, Wont Stop). Althought the group's commercial success was somewhat short lived, they remained on the label and recently, Young C started releasing a series of solo tracks. He, also, apparently plans on releasing his debut solo album this year, that I would definitely be interested in getting a hold of. His Philly roots are reflected in his lyricism that, I think, sometimes parallels the style of a young Jay-Z, himself.

Paradise (ft. Lil' Wayne)
You Don't Even Know
Party
Ride Out

Wale
This cat is the first rapper out of the DC/Maryland/Virginia area in a while to have potential to rise to national popularity in the industry since The Clipse and Pharrell. He's had the internet goin' nuts for a while now, and this online popularity has caught the ear of other respectful artists who featured him on a couple songs and got him some further recognition. His witty wordplay, unique delivery, and upbeat rhyme patterns make most every track he releases enjoyable.

Mr. Carter Freestyle
Hacksaw Jim Duggan (ft. Skyzoo)
Whole Time (ft. Young Chris)
The Crazy

Bun B
Bun B has been a highly respected rapper in the South for a long while now for his involvement in the Underground Kingz, or UGK, with the late Pimp C. The group had been putting out music solid music since 1987 - before I was born - but, sadly, it was after the passing of Bun's groupmate and long-time friend that he really began to shine. Jumping on featured track after track, he tore up countless verses, and with the release of his second solo album, II Trill, he solidified his place on this featured artist post.

Damn, I'm Cold (ft. Lil' Wayne)
Swang On 'Em (ft. Lupe Fiasco)
That's Gangsta (ft. Sean Kingston)
You're Everything (ft. Rick Ross, David Banner, 8 Ball & MJG)

Remember to check the plenty of upcoming posts.

How About A Hip-Hop President

Jay-Z called this in 2003 when, before Dirt Off Your Shoulders, he exclaimed,

"Turn the music up in the headphones.
Barack, you can go on, brush your shoulders off nigga, I got you."
- Jay-Z

Surviving The Times

So, being my first post, I figure I should start off by telling a bit about myself, but I don't want to. The way I see it, you can tell the man by what's going through his headphones. The one thing I will say is that I do not enjoy what I hear comin' out of other peoples speakers. The list goes on and on. Fortunately there are people like myself, and my best friend the Young G of many names, his most recent being Orlando Magic, who stay true to the classics.

I've got well over 500 songs prior to 1998, and I'm always finding new shit to pump through the speakers. Things by De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest, Naughty by Nature, Run DMC, The Sugarhill Gang, Kool Moe Dee, Eric B. & Rakim, Beastie Boys, LL Cool J, Jazzy Jeff. The list goes on and on.

When you're born after 1990, you miss out on all the good stuff. I'd like to end this with a quote from one of the best rap groups of all time, Run DMC.

"If you really think about it times aren't that bad.
The one that stretches for success will make you glad.
Stop playing, start praying, you won't be sad.
It's like that, and that's the way it is."

I'll leave you with some of the best classics you gotta check out:

Scenario - A Tribe Called Quest
Me, Myself, and I - De La Soul
Rapper's Delight - The Sugarhill Gang
Wild Wild West - Kool Moe Dee
Children's Story - Slick Rick
You Be Illin' - Run DMC
Brass Monkey - The Beastie Boys
Feel Me Flow - Naughty By Nature
Bonita Applebum - A Tribe Called Quest
My Melody - Eric B. & Rakim
The Magic Number - De La Soul
Bust A Move - Young M.C.
My Adidas - Run DMC
O.P.P. - Naughty By Nature
Awards Tour - Jurassic Five
Ain't No Half Steppin' - Big Daddy Kane
My Philosophy - KRS-One
Momma Said Knock You Out - LL Cool J
Gangsta's Paradise - Coolio
Baby Got Back - Sir Mix-A-Lot
Humpty Dance - Digital Underground
Hip Hop Hooray - Naughty by Nature
Lets Get Married - Jagged Edge
Hypnotize - Notorious B.I.G.
You Can't Touch This - MC Hammer
No Diggity - Blackstreet
This Is How We Do It- Montell Jordan

Check me out here, too.

The Rhyme Has Come

You guys have been waitin' way to long for this, so I've decided that I gotta go big or go home. Well, since I'm stayin' right where I am, I've decided to go big.

Below I have some of newest tracks dating back less than a month ago, and I have ones that I've copped as recently as today. It's a dope combination of the underground and the commercial, the gansta and the backpack, the old school returning and the new school gettin' better.

First, I'll give you my Top 10 Tracks:
Big Boi ft. Andre 3000, Raekwon - Royal Flush | This is the first joint I've heard from Antwan's forthcoming solo album, Sir Luscious Left Foot.
Fat Joe ft. KRS-One - My Conscience | This happens to be the dopest track off Joey Crack's new album and with old school strength, there's no going wrong.
The Game - Big Dreams | Fresh out of incarceration, The Game lets us now how tough he is, with another song about dreams.
Lupe Fiasco - Gold Watch | This just happens to be my favorite song of Lupe's The Cool.
Lupe Fiasco ft. Talib Kweli - After All | This song takes an older track "Just Might Be Okay," flips the beat, and adds a respectable verse by Talib. No losing here.
Sheek Louch ft. Styles P, Jadakiss - Gettin' Stronger | Gettin' strong is an understatement when the LOX comes with it better than ever.
Three 6 Mafia - I'd Rather | They get their message across, and the song definitely keeps playing in your head.
Wale ft. 45 Kings - Strings | There's something about his songs that is just contagious.
Wyclef Jean ft. Lupe Fiasco - Fast Car Remix | A peaceful island-based track that just gets so much more with the addition of the Lupe verse.
Young Chris ft. Peedi Crakk - 3, 2, 1 | This complimenting duo raps about the good life and enjoys it.

And I left you with another 26 joints:
Atmosphere ft. Stage One, St. Paul Slim, Muja Messsiah, YZ, Brother Ali, Toki Wright, Blueprint - Crewed Up | This is a dope track of some Mid-west underground rappers showin' us how strong they flow together.
The Cool Kids - A Little Bit Cooler | As a big fan of the Mikey and Chuck, this song comes just as tight as their earlier ones.
DMX - Already | The Dog returns from a hiatus to deliver us a decent track.
E-4o ft. Lil' Jon - Turf Drop | Hyphy and crunk music collide is this new class by Forty Fonzerelli.
Fabolous - Hey Papi Freestyle | It's been a while since Fab came out with something this good.
Fat Joe - Thank God For That White | He lets us know who he has to thank for his success.
Gnarls Barkley - Run | The new track is definitely way to catchy to leave out of the mix.
Ill Bill ft. La Coka Nostra - That's Coke | These boys tell us how that white is more than a drug, it's a culture.
Kidz In The Hall ft. DJ GI Joe - The Black Out | There last song I posted was so dope, it's amazing to see how close they come when bringing this one.
The KnuX - Cappuccino Remix | I don't know what it is about this group that had me listening to their original and their remix of this joint.
Lil' Wayne - I | This upbeat mixtape track shines in the wide catalog of Wayne tracks.
Lupe Fiasco ft. Young Jeezy, TI - Superstar Remix | Another remix of a Lupe track but with some an unexpected, southern rap cast.
Mickey Factz - Up High | A very Lupe-esque song, but I dig it.
Mickey Factz ft. Nakim - K-1 Attack | Mickey shows us that he can switch up the flow and still sound decent. Other dudes verse ain't bad.
Nappy Roots - Who Got It, Where's It At | This track from a country-rap group definitely strays from their older "Aww Naw."
Q-Tip - Midnight '08 | This old school and underground veteran comes strong with brand new music.
Red Cafe ft. Fat Joe, Jadakiss, Fabolous - Paper Touchin' Remix | A strong cast makes this song a remix that top the originator.
Rick Ross ft. T-Pain, Lil' Wayne, Fabolous, Red Cafe - The Boss Remix | Like the last track, this one brings it hard over Ricky Ross's new track.
Snoop Dogg ft. Too Short, Mistah FAB - Life Of Da Party | This is the best song of Snoop Dogg's latest album, and that's not saying much. Time to hang up the towel.
Swizz Beatz - Candy Green | It may be no "It's Me," but for a producer, Swizz really delivers.
Talib Kweli - Independent Hustle | A tribute to all those record labels and individual rappers doing it big and not getting all the recognition they deserve.
Tha Dogg Pound ft. Pharrell - Cheat | The sample is what originally drew me to this track, and DPG kept it coming.
Wale - Rain, Sleet, Snow | Up and coming D.C. rapper who takes to his Washington roots with upbeat background tracks to tightly flow over.
Young Buck - Hold On | I'm really into these slower, meaningful flows lately.
Young Chris - Rewind Freestyle | C's freestyles are always just are strong, if not stronger, as all his produced tracks.


I know it's been a while, but I hope no one's too disappointed after this re-up. So many posts in so little time. You can't complain when the music's insane.

Gettin' In Touch With Our Musical Roots

The Legendary Roots Crew, or more commonly know simply as The Roots, and one of the most successful underground rap groups in the history of hip-hop. They have been releasing amazing music for over twenty years now. They produce such deep, powerful rap lyrics with the aide of an in house bad and a hard hittin' jazz sound like no other.

The variety of styles that The Fifth Dynasty has released also points to how much of an artistic talent the group has. Even the former members of the group point towards the groups immense talent - they include renowned beat boxer Rhazel and hip-hop producer Scott Storch. Current member, and one of their most recognized figures, drummer ?uestlove, has a repertoire that includes DJing, music journalism, producing, and appearances on the Chappelle Show.

Well, from what I've heard so far, The Roots have done it once again. The crew will be releasing their tenth album since formation. I've been checkin' some of the singles and leaks around the internet, and from what I can see, this album is more than promising. Contrastingly from their last album, The Game Theory, the lines are going to be delivered over tracks that have a less rock feel, and many of them will have some strong artists joining them as features.

"I'm working on [album] number 10 right now — I want to be the first rap artist to actually make a good 10th record, that's my goal." -?uestlove

Get Busy (ft. Dice Raw, Peedi Crakk, DJ Jazzy Jeff)
Rising Down (ft. Styles P, Mos Def, Dice Raw)
Rising Up (ft. Wale, Chrisette Michele)
75 Bars [Black's Reconstruction]
Birthday Girl (ft. Patrick Stump)

Now, we play the waiting game for the release of this album on April 29th.
"It's all in the music."

The Coincidence is Undeniable

Finding all the newest joints, as I attempt to do, is tough work, as you can see by the time that passes in between posts. As I was browsing recently though, I came across a new Wu-Tang track with RZA and Inspectah Deck. There was something about this track that just seemed all too familiar. Then it hit me... Undeniable of Mos Def's True Magic.

Below, I posted up both these tracks so you can see the similarities yourself.

RZA ft. Inspectah Deck - You Can't Stop Me | The track and the sample have a very old-school feel that's stays true to the Wu style.
Mos Def - Undeniable | Mos Def takes this sample and flips it in the best of ways.

Hope you like this, and all the other posts I'm blazin' one after another.
ABC, always be cool.

Lean With It, Hypnotize It

College is a place where people discover themselves and the things that will truly be their life's passion. This isn't the case here. As my friends and I grow bored with one abstract hobby or crazy project after another, we move on yet again. This time, we've stumbled upon music mash-ups.

Our group, who for now will be dubbed the Super Mash Bros., has worked on creating remixes with two seperate songs, utilizing full tracks, samples, instrumentals, and a capellas. With all of our effect, I'm sure you'll find something to enjoy.



With this little ensemble, we see the Notorious B.I.G. flowing over his track hypnotize with a little help from Atlanta's Dem Franchize Boyz, who took a break from all their snap music.

Dem Franchize Boyz vs. Notorious B.I.G - Lean With It, Hypnotize It

There are more tracks where this one came from, and eventually I'll rerelease them all in a sort of pseudo-album.
In the meantime, still listen to gangsta music, my brothas.

I'm Out For Presidents To Represent Me

With the upcoming Presidential Primaries, interviewers are really beginning to focus on the issues that truley matter.
What are these issues you ask?

Why, hip-hop of course.



Obama goes and get's busy lettin' us know what's bumpin' on his iPod, from new to old.

"You know. [Hip-hop] tells a story. As Jay would say 'He got flow.'"
Jay-Z - Lost Ones
Jay-Z - Ain't I
Kanye West - Stronger (unreleased original verse)
Kanye West ft. Common - The Food

"But I'm still an old school guy."
Marvin Gaye - Give It Up Remix
Stevie Wonder - That Girl
Temptations - Treat Her Like A Lady
Earth, Wind, & Fire - In The Stone

"I think the potential them to deliver a message of extraordinary power."
Just thought I'd throw this track out there. Obama is on the right track, but there was a movement recently called "Stop The Violence" where rappers who typically rap about shoot outs and the like spit something a little more abstract for them. Below is a piece of the track and here's the video.
KRS-One ft. Nelly, The Game - Self Construction

The Biggest Boss That You Seen Thus Far

It's about that time again where people start letting me know that I've been slacking and that the want the re-up. Who am I to deny readers of what they want? Well gangstas and gangstaettes, check out these new songs from my most recent search for new jams.

What follows is a nice mix of twenty-something pieces of urban culture for you to sample with a little bit of an OG's commentary.

2 Pistols ft. T-Pain - She Got It :: The radio will love this one.
Bun B ft. Sean Kingston - That's Gangsta :: It doesn't get any harder than this.
Cam'ron - Pass The Dutchie :: Oh, what a sample can do for a song.
The Clipse ft. The Re-Up Gang - 20K Money Makin' Brothers On The Corner :: Who knew someone could rap about cooking repeatedly while still stayin' fresh.
The Cool Kids - Pump Up The Volume Remix :: Check out their television spot.
Del Tha Funkee Homosapien - Bubble Pop :: Del does for the rap game what retro dunks do for sneakers.
DJ Drama ft. Nelly, T.I., Diddy, Yung Joc, Willie The Kid, Young Jeezy, Twista - 5000 Ones :: This shows that Khaled isn't the only one that can put ish together.
Ghostface Killah vs. Jay-Z - Success at the Apollo :: A fan of both songs.
Gillie The Kid ft. Freeway, Peedi Crakk - Get Down On The Ground Remix :: Self-proclaimed "King of Philly" brings the heat with a dope supporting cast.
Kidz In The Hall - Drivin' Down The Block :: These backpack rappers apparently know what they're doing.
Lupe Fiasco - Little Weapon :: This reaches Slick Rick-storytellin' status.
Mike Jones ft. Hurricane Chris - Drop And Give Me Fifty :: He busted it wide open and shook it on the floor?
Papoose ft. Busta Rhymes, Big Lou - Last Lyricists :: This track keeps it gutter.
Pharrell ft. N.E.R.D. - Everyone Nose :: Anyone else find this strangely intriguing.
Ray Cash - With A G :: And I though he was gone for good.
Rick Ross ft. T Pain - The Boss :: The Rick Ross/T Pain Combo does it for me.
Rick Ross ft. R. Kelly, Baby, Busta Rhymes, Fat Joe, Lil' Wayne, Lil' Boosie, DJ Khaled - Speedin' Remix :: The variety made me like it better than the original.
The Roots vs. The Beatles - Pity The Child/Come Together :: I know this isn't new, but I think everyone needs to be on this.
Saigon ft. Memphis Bleek - Ryders (Da Ville To Da Stuy) :: Sai doesn't get nearly enough credit.
Three 6 Mafia ft. UGK - One Some Chrome :: Rip Pimp C.
Usher ft. Ludacris - Dat Girl Right There :: Make no mistake, this isn't only for the ladies.
Wiz Khalifa - Say Yeah :: The sample alone is worth the listen.
Young Buck - New York City :: This is the better of his two newly released songs.
Young Chris - Nowhere :: Post-Young Gunz, he's flowing better than ever.


Until next time, take it Eazy F. Baby.

Relax And Take Notes

|a|n|t|i|d|r|u|g|

I'm sure you all remember growing up with those commercials letting you know the danger of drugs and showing you how "everyday people" like yourself avoided drugs, be it family, friends, school, sports, whatever. There's a problem with this never ending campaign against drugs though, and no, it's not the Mexicans, Trey.

Who doesn't like the movies like Half Baked and How High. Regardless of your stance on marijuana, these are funny movies that our youth is indulging in. Here's a clip from the comedy movie, Walk Hard:



There is twenty years of anti-drug progress down the drain. I also have an issue with the direction of some of these commercials. Above The Influence airs commercials where apparent users of different demographics are approached by there loved ones to stop smoking. Here is their newest commercial.



Now, I'm just being honest, but if a pot head's dog talked to them while they were high, I don't think it would stop them from smoking. Now, I leave you with some work by popular music artists that do all but discourage one from abstaining.

Afroman - Because I Got High
Afroman - 12 J's Of Christmas
Ludacris ft. Lil' Flip - Screwed Up
Method Man - 4:20
Sean Paul - We Be Burnin'

Two Premieres

New contributor The Benjamins, writes:

Today's a special day, we're all blessed with two grand premieres: my first post and the release of a new Wu-Tang Album. Wu-Tang Clan has been my favorite rap group for a long time, probably since I was 9 years old and ODB rushed the stage at the Grammy's to announce that he had bought an expensive outfit and that "Wu-Tang is for the children".

Wu's 8 Diagrams is their first album since 2001's Iron Flag, and the first since the death of ODB. The rhymes are dark and gritty, and most of the album takes a different tone than their usual. It's deeper. This is especially noticeable in 'Life Changes', a tribute to ODB. The Wu is back with the rhymes, beats, and long kung fu movie samples we've been missing.

Tracks off 8 Diagrams:
Take It Back
Rushing Elephants
The Heart Gently Weeps
Windmill
Life Changes

This last one's not off 8 Diagrams, but I've had it stuck in my head for like 2 months.
It's RZA without the rest of the clan.
RZA- A Day to God is 1000 years

Remember, it's all for the children.

Just Be Like Yahhh And Give A Dog A Bone

My ninja The Wang writes:

Well as most football enthusiasts would know, today Michael Vick was convicted and sentenced to 23 months in Federal Prison in the state of Virginia on charges concerning dog fighting, not dawgs fighting. I don't know how everyone else feels about this, but I think Vick got what he deserved. I mean c'mon... the dude was makin' nearly 23 million a year playin' ball and makin' commercials for Nike, Underarmor, Champs, etc.; why would he do suttin' as dumb as dog fightin. Oh well, all you other dog fighters out there beware from this case. America cares! Well, me and The Coolest wanna no how y'all feel 'bout this issue, so get back at us.

This song played as Vick was being sentenced...

DMX - Ruff Ryders Anthem

And I write:
This might be gettin' ridiculous, but I gotta post what I gotta post. The sad thing is, this song is quite catchy.

Soulja Boy - Yahhh

Now all we need to do is ask if he took a page out of Howard Dean's book for this joint.

Ayo for Wang Yo

Fellow Young G, The Wang writes:

Well, it's 'bout this time a week ago, and my boy Dante asked me to hit 'em up sum help on his site. So I'm here to do him some help, and post some good shit. I don't know really what to do or nuttin', but while y'all are here or smokin' dem L's hit up these tracks I like. I call 'em da works 'cuz it's basically everything.

Mistah Fab - Ghost Ride It - This is a must. Deal wit' it.
Lil' Wayne - Postman - Weezy does it, and he did it well.
Trey Songz - Can't Help But Wait - He did it for his lady; that's pretty chill.
Stylez P ft. Swizz Beatz - Blow Your Mind - My mind was out there. Trust.
Gucci Mane - Freaky Girl - Epitome of hit it and quit it.
Damian Marley - Jamrock - If Daddy Marley didn't say it, this track did. Hah.
Gorilla Zoe - Hood Figga - Slum rat to hood figga in 6 seconds.
Kinfolk ft. Swizz Beatz, Slim Thug, E-40, Jim Jones - So Krispy Remix - Various sounds, good mix.
Eazy E - Eazy Does It - Nice throw back track. Listen and love.
R. Kelly - Playas Only - I forgot my playas card. Sh*t.
Dem Franchize Boyz - Ridin' Rims - Snow tires for now, but soon as its nice out... ride rims.

Aight, that's it for now. Love it or hate it, it's what I like. Check back here whenever; me and Orlando Magic post a lot, and if any y'all got suggestions for postin' or feedback, hit us up wit some comments.

Got A Bandana Wrapped Right Around His Neck

I got a nice little mix of mostly new songs that I've been bumpin' most recently. You know I always got the re-up, and I'm going put a few words to each of the songs so you know what I think of 'em. Questions, comments, and requests always welcome, and soon you may see a debut post from a few d-boys helpin' me out.

Apathy - You Look Like You Come From The 80's : I only wish this song was longer because he ripped shit up and he's right on.
Cassidy - Drink N 2 Step Remix (ft. Kanye West, Swizz Beatz, Ne-Yo) : Amped up version of the original banger with some of your favorites.
Chamillionaire - Won't Let You Down Remix (ft. Slim Thug, Paul Wall, Mike Jones, Trae, Bun, Pimp C, Z-Ro) : Take Chamillionaire, one of my favorite southern rappers, and throw in practically every other big down south name.
The Clipse - Cheers (ft. Pharrell, DJ Drama) : Not much of an upbeat track, but it's definately got it goin' on lyrically. They got the re-up.
Freeway - Its Over : As rare as a track from him has been, it's always nice to hear a rapper like himself come out again after a mixtapin' hiatus.
G. Love & Special Sauce - Banger (ft. Blackalicious) : Not the traditional song to post, but Blackalicious is no joke and I've always enjoyed G. Love.
Ghostface Killah - Barrell Brothers (ft. Beanie Sigel,Styles P) : Ghost' is back yet again, and though I'm not all that impressed so far by The Big Doe Rehad, this track is aight.
Hi-Tek - My Piano (ft. Ghostface Killah, Raekwon, Dion) : Probably the most hood a song with pianos can get. Hi-Tek knows what he's doing.
Lil' Wayne - Dying : Listening to this track with some friends rappin' along side is one of the most entertaining things a brotha can do.
Ludacris - Ludacrismas : How can Luda stay so gutter while rappin' about the holiday season?
Lupe Fiasco - The Coolest : The Cool's tracks show that Lupe isn't gettin' any less deeper and he's not dumbin' it down for any of us. I even get lost.
Memphis Bleek - Breakfast : The ROC is strong in this one. Shouts to Kanye.
The Mighty Underdogs - Gunfight (ft. MF Doom, Myron, Glaster, G-Koop) : Another obscure sounding track, but these dudes might just have me lookin' for more shit by this new "rap" group.
Murs - Better Than The Rest : Murs has the respect of many underground enthusiasts and this song helps us understand why.
Outkast - Da Art Of Storytellin' Part 4 (ft. Marsha Ambrosius, DJ Drama) : 'Kast has always been tight, and they always know how to mix things up a bit in these days of commercial rap.
Rick Ross - Street Money (ft. Flo-Rida) : Ross spits that dope as white as it comes, and Flo' is a nice touch.
Saigon - Come On Baby Remix (ft. Jay-Z, Swizz Beatz) : I felt the original track and now with Hov on it, there's no losing.
Strong Arm Steady - One Step Remix (ft. Crooked I, Jay Rock, Turf Talk) : This underground joint shows just how much talent is concealed under the industry's eye.
Too Short - This My One (ft. E-40) : Who doesn't want to stay up on their hyphy shit, especially when Forty Fonzerelli is at his side.


RIP Pimp C (UGK's Heaven). He did it big.



Keep gettin' that 'fetti, and do me a favor;
stay out of trouble.

Wasalu Muhammad Jaco

Prominent hip hop mogul Jay-Z describes him as a "breath of fresh air" in a new hip-hop world characterized by mainstream pop and glamour, a sharp contrast with the widespread lyricism-focused rap of the 1990s, and critics have called him the "hip-hop Generation Next vanguard." That's quite the intro, eh.

Now, as you may have previously read, I was lucky enough to attend a Lupe show last Thursday. It was definitely an awesome show, especially seeing as many rappers really don't perform well live and usually sound terrible to say the least. The energy got up and stayed up throughout the whole show and the crowd got into it. I'd also like to make note of the fact that Lupe apologized to his fans for being sick, but went on with he show with no less energy.

Here are some pictures I had taken via cell phone:




Here's some grade A Lupe music to accompany his grade A live show.
Mixtape Tracks
Outty 5000 (right click, save as)
Switch (right click, save as)
We On (with Gemini, who helped keep the show going while Lu' got himself some cough drops)
Cold Blooded
Us Placers (via CRS)
Bottom, Top (Pre-The Cool)
Food & Liquor
Kick, Push
I Gotcha (unconventional remix)
Daydreamin' (right click, save as)
American Terrorist (right click, save as)
The Cool
The Cool Album Sampler Track
The Coolest (newest track yet)
Dumb It Down
Superstar

I think we're set for now. If you're lookin' for any specific tracks off most of his work or joints he's featured in, just let me know and I'll be more than happy to share.

The Cooool

Ayo. I just saw Lupe. More to come at later date. Much, much more. In the meantime, check out my newer posts if you haven't, save yo' pennies for his upcoming album, The Cool, and check the video for a fresh single, Dumb It Down.

It Ain't Eazy Stayin' Fresh To Death

Now that it's gettin' colder outside and snowman isn't only referring to that dude posted up on your corner, you need to re-up on all your clothing needs. We all know it's tough stayin' fresh - harder for some than others - but make it easy on yourself and click the picture above.


Also, here are some videos I checked out recently that are worth peekin'.


The "I'm So Hood Remix" has an official video. I'm wondering how much money was put into this video because regardless of how cool the visual art is, does Koch really think that it was worth investing in a Khaled remix video.



Here is the official video for Kanye's Good Morning off his Graduation. I'm definitely diggin' the concept of taking his cover art and expanding it to a whole video.

A Hip-Hop Odyssey

This could be the best DJ mix I've heard in a while, if not ever. The fact that he can fuse 800 hip-hop tracks, ranging from classics to recent, and get that done in merely 48 minutes is ingenious to say the least. The only thing I could do without is the constant Jaguar Skills voice-over, but there might be no way to top this shit.

You best enjoy.
Jaguar Skills & Lord Basis Supreme - A Hip-Hop Odyssey (1979 to 2006)

Live Fast, Die Fun

This is a tribute to all my hustlers, dealers, drop-top riders, make that cakers, cop two five fivers, pimps and players, platinum diamonds, east to west coast they riders.

What The Game's Been Missing.

Scratch that. What I meant to say was, "The Game's been missing." The one and only has been missing for what seems like a week or so now. Sources tell me that a little while back, The Game, his entourage, and what could allegedly be some G-Units cats got into a scuffle in a Cali club. After the throw down, his driver noted that The Doctor's Advocate never returned to the car, leaving an ere of mystery and suspicion. What makes this story all that more intriguing is that a little over a week ago, Game had a scheduled concert in Auckland, Australia. "But fans have been left in the dark as to why The Game - one of the concert's headlining stars - didn't perform," noted one article. In my opinion, he made the right decision. The other rappers included a cat from Naughty by Nature, Akon, Pitbull, and get this... Sisqo. They called the concert "Rock Da Block," but I think something along the lines of "Not Worth Your Money" is more like it, especially with The Game MIA.

Well, while he's gone, and even if he's pulling a Chappelle, he's probably not recording any tracks for a bit. Here are a few newer, but unreleased tracks from the man.

Early Morning Moves
I'm Lookin'
Still Hangin'
When Shit


Shouts to 'Ye for the scoop.

Got Exposed to the Game

I'd like to again apologize for all these delayed posts, but after finding a solution for my problems with my online server, I can begin to supply you with the realest, dirtiest, trillest hip-hop music; that shit you've been waiting for. Since I can't go and backtrack, I'm gonna start with a few newer tracks off the playlist. Enjoy, basschasers.

Cassidy - I Get Money: Everyone's freestyling on Fitty's track and doing it big, bigger than the originator.
Del Tha Funkee Homosapien - Phoney Phranchise: I've always been a fan of this established underground rapper, and he did me proud.
Fallout Boy ft. Kanye West, Gym Class Heroes, Tyga, Lupe Fiasco, Paul Wall, Skin Head Rob, Lil' Wayne- Arms Race Remix: This rap remix of suburban white kid's one-time loved song isn't the best crossover mix I've heard, but it's worth listening to. Sadly, though, Wayne disappointed.
Freekey Zekey ft. Cam'ron, Juelz Santana - Daddy's Back: Although I'm not a big fan of Zeke, this track has an old school feel that I just couldn't resist.
The Game ft. Lil' Wayne - Lyrical Homicide: Just look at the names involved. Speaks for itself.
Hurrican Chris - Hand Clap: Everyone already knows Chris's claim to fame, but this track is just as lively as his first single, found here. Just no catch phrase with this one.
Jae Millz - Silver Surf: On a track I like to call Crank That Freestyle, Jae goes ahead and spits it just as hard as the songs originator, who you'll get to cop below.
Jay-Z ft. TI, Bun B - Pimpin' Is Born: Whoever mixed this track up needs to come see me so I can give them their props.
Kanye West ft. Lil' Wayne - Barry Bonds: A few things; one, having Kanye and Lil' Wayne on this track got me interested right away, and two, I wasn't sure if I liked it at first, but it grew on me.
Kanye West - Can't Tell Me Nothing: My favorite track so far off of Graduation. The lyricism is real tight.
Lil' Wayne ft. Juelz Santana - Poppin' Part 2
Lil' Wayne ft. Juelz Santana - Bad Side
Lil' Wayne - Outstanding: These three songs, all of mixtapes, show his range as a rapper, his consistently on tracks, and the fact that he's not dropping off the charts anytime soon.
The Pack - Robocop: I love to stay on my hyphy shit, on my Pack shit, and going stupid, dummy, retarded.
Ray L ft. Fabolous, Red Cafe - My Girls Got A Girlfriend Remix: This is one of those songs that I just find myself singin' the chorus over and over.
Saigon ft. Swizz Beatz - Don't You, Baby: More of an underground track, but it's got a mainstream feel too it. Good combination, all in all.
Sean Kingston ft. Fabolous, Lil' Boosie - Beautiful Girls Remix: As I began to type this song here, I figured if I was someone else, I would kick my ass just for listening to this more than once.
Soulja Boy - Crank That Soulja Boy Remix: Once I learned the dance, I was hooked. This mix is a bit more upbeat, and if someone would like to send me the original, I'll superman that hoe.
TI - Tell 'em I Said That: My favorite track from what I've heard off of his alter-ego album. He keeps it real from beginning to end.
Three 6 Mafia ft. The Game - Like Money: I don't know what it is about the Mafia, but they are some of the hardest rappers still out there, and with a West Coast heavy hitter like the game, this song could please both the occasional listener and those who listen to rap religiously, alike.
Tupac ft. Boot Camp Click - Initiated: This tracks off the new Pac album, and judging by this song, I might be throwing down a few bucks for it.
Twista ft. T Pain - Creep Fast: I've always been a fan of Twista's hurried flow, but combined with the sounds of Teddy Pain, this track makes it way into my next top ten list.


If you have trouble getting the joints, make sure you click "Download this File" above the streaming song, then the "Download Now" button, and the prompt to download it should show up automatically.

It's nice to be back.

Sorry all you loyal and not-so-loyal readers. It's been a while since I've last posted some tracks, but there's been problems with the server where I keep the music for you to download. In the meantime, here's my current playlist for you guys to check out, and maybe download a few tracks on your own.



You could also check out my lastfm account to see what I'm listening to these days, and keep posting your suggestions.