Jermaine Dupri interview with the Breakfast Club

I know that it's Thursday and you want to see a Spin Doctors Sessions, but the staff was talking about how important this interview Jermaine Dupri did with The Breakfast Club. It's encouraging for indie labels, producers and southern artists.

Black Montana - Gone video

Check out this heartfelt video from Black Montana with "Gone". It was filmed by Cotton films, who I think is going to be a problem in the near future with videos/film. What's your thoughts...Spin it or Scratch it?

Swerve and SYG - Cold Winters and Warm Whiskey 2 mixtape review

Every now and then within hip hop, an artist doesn't merely make a mixtape or album...they create art. This happens to be the case with Swerve & SYP's "Cold Winters and Warm Whiskey 2". Similar to the name of the mixtape, they shift through the spectrum of life within a paradox format. I love how they can shift from tracks like  "fearless" to exploring God and morality within the next track with "paradise". The bars are so vivid and gripping that you forget that the project is 18 (actually 20 with the bonus tracks) tracks long. As far as content, they show us that there "gotta be more than" typical topics. You can respect their transparency and that is what helps draw you into every track. This mixtape is really balanced with tracks on life, social issues and dope lyrics.  I also love their hooks. Not only are all of the hooks catchy, but they are just as important as the lyrics on each track. This helps create more single worthy tracks on the mixtape. This mixtape defines where hip hop is going and is going to be a trailblazer. This is one of my favorite listens of the year and they do all of this while their style stays "fresh even if it's laundry day".

Rating: 5/5 Spins

Replays: Paradise, Only Wishes, China White & Reflective Dreams,  

Best Feature: N/A but DJ Mentos had best production with "Only Wishes"

Twitter: @swerve916 or www.swerve916.com

 

Naimah featuring Cutt Dogg - Rumble in The Bronx video (Directed by Tig knight)

I'm a big fan of Tig Knight's (@tigknight) work. He goes beyond just shooting simple videos. I like the concept to this video. Naimah brings it on this track and shows off some acting skills as Cutt Dogg brings a nice verse. You can find out more about Naimah at www.OFFICIALNAIMAH.com . Let us know what you think...Spin it or Scratch it?

DJ Sean Blu - My Neighborhood 706 Mixtape

Saluting DJ Sean Blu from giving us a great Spin Doctors Sessions interview, we decided to let you guys hear his newest mixtape, "My Neighborhood 706". It's got some bangers on it! Check it out and let me know if you would spin it or scratch it. 

Download Mixtape | Free Mixtapes Powered by DatPiff.com

Dynomite Kid - Slump SosaVideo

Sometimes, I'm on the fence about "jacking beats", but I have to admit that Dynomite Kid KILLED this beat. I look for two things when i hear a jacked beat/see a jacked beat video. First, do they make the song theirs? Secondly, do they bring some bars on it? Dynomite Kid did both of these things with this track. I feel bad for Cheef Keef for letting Dynomite Kid get this beat. Good look.

Chance Jolivette @chancejolivette - "The World is Ours" album review

Louisiana artist, Chance Jolivette (aka Mr. 12 in the fiscal), is one of the most devoted artists in the game that I know. I've been watching him grow as a artist for years. His work ethic would put some major artists to shame. That's why I think he has the right to call his current (yes, there will be more soon) project, "The World is Ours". Inspired by Scarface (the movie), he spits tracks reflecting his come up and being hip hop's "bad guy".Chance's machine gun flow goes well with the production on the project. Chance speaks on the ups and downs of his career throughout the project. He lets us know he's "focused" and "determined"  as he's "trying 2 live out his dreams". The only negative thing
about the project is that 17 tracks is somewhat too long. Even though Chance kept my attention through every track, he could have kept 4 or 5 tracks for a bonus disc or another project.One thing I can say is that the world better get ready for Chance, because he's coming for it. Boss Status.

Rating: 4.5/5 Spins

Replays: Bad Guy, Coldest Nigga Walking, The Struggle, Determined,

Best Feature: B-Dub My City

Twitter: @chancejolivette

 

Spin Doctors Sessions- DJ Sean Blu

SC: Where you repping?
SB: Augusta, Ga by the way of Frankfurt, Germany

SC:  How did you become the" 6 million dollar DJ"?
SB: Most dudes growing up as kid wanted to be Suprman, Batman, Spiderman or some other . I wanted to be the Bionic Man (The Six Million Dollar Man) starring Lee Majors, a tv show back in the 70’s. Man, it was something about that Intro of Show too! The icing on the cake was the red suit (lol) and when he was running in slo mo.

SC:  Who are some artists that you have worked with/ hosted mixtapes for?
SB: Rob Hodge, Japhia Life, Dre Marshall, Mahogany Jones, Mr.Del. Shei Atkins,Kinine,K Drama, Damon Lamar, Claude Deuce,T.K. Tru Knowledge, Canton Jones, Milliyon, T Haddy,Vizunari, Big Ran, 7vnSeal,Von Vargas, Sean Slaughter, Young Chozen,Young Paul..Man, I’m actually sitting here thinking (lol) it’s more than this!





SC: I see you recently went to africa. How was the hip hop scence over there?
SB: Hip Hop is WORLDWIDE!! I went to five African countries and some had more hip hop influences a lilttle more than others! Botswana and Uganda were on top of it! Zambia, Rwanda, Ethiopia were on point too! Man, I did collabs with Graffiti Artist and Break Dancers. We had REAL Ciphers over there! Man, I made sure I kept it classic on my set(s) making sure I dropped the Joints! I Played “HIP HOP HOORAY” by Naughty by Nature over there! Each Stop! The venues would go bananas When that record dropped! I played at College Venues, Schools, Outdoor Venues, Clubs, 3 out 5 US Ambassadors Mansion(s) with Diplomats! Dropped that “Hip Hooray” CRAZY!!

SC: I see you are really big on fair treatment to DJs. Do you feel that
artists and/or hip hop fans take advantage of DJs?
SB: The DJ is Gateway, even though the internet is here! A record is still broken and got to be played by a DJ whether that DJ plays it on his or her Laptop, mp3 player. Now that’s another Topic in itself, but the DJ is the Gateway. Do Hip Fans take advantage of DJs? I would say,...yeah! Most people think they can do what a DJ does… they think all we do is play records! It’s a lot more to it than that! Its many elements of DJing! The art in controlling the atmosphere by working the Crowd,  playing the right record at the right time. The Time you put in listening and practicing is key. And because a lot of cats is ignorant to the culture they want to pay them little or nothing! But the DJ is LIFE of your Party!

SC: What are your current thoughts on hip hop?
SB: Man, it took a lot cats off the street. It made a lot people who you thought were not going to amount to anything Millionaires! But I also think it’s lost a lot of true substance, creativity and originality! But I see slowly it’s trying to get those two lost important elements back. I still got Love for the Culture! What I love about the culture is that it took a little or nothing and it became a Phenomenon!

SC: What are some pet peeves that artists do to you?
SB:  Try to come at me like their “dooky” don’t stank! Like I really need them! And who don’t properly tag or submit their music, and TRY to Coach me how to a Mix tape and what I do! I am Open to suggestions and even criticism but Man I will go in bro…lol!



SC: What are 3 tips you can give artists?
SB: Be a student of your craft, Be Professional, Be Humble

SC: Any last words or shout outs?
SB: Shout to everybody that has ever supported me! ALL I got is GOD, My Fam-Church Fam, and my DREAM!! DJ’s gotta Eat Too! …Props Don’t Buy Food”

Jay Elly @jayelly - Black & White Video

I got to say that this is one of the best videos I've checked out in 2013. Not only is Jay Elly spitting some bars with substance, but the visuals really bring out the concept of the track. It's filmed by @BCsPhotography1. You can check out Jay Elly on twitter at @JayEllyHTE and expect a review of his new project, "Nobody but God", from us soon.

ST 2 Lettaz @2lettaz - Prelude to a G

Last year, hip hop faced yet another monumental duo break up with G-side. However, ST 2 Lettaz has been steadily releasing solo projects and will be bringing fans his new album "The G...The Growth & Development"next month. Understanding his fans desired to hear more tracks, ST decided to give them the "Prelude to a G" EP. ST 2 Lettaz lets the people know he's one of the kings in the rap game and deserves the "crown". Throughout the EP he brings lyrical bars showing "he's the goat, but not a capricorn". He also lets it be known he's looking for a relationship that doesn't end with wedding dresses and tuxedos with the help of Mic Strange and Jackie Chain on "S.H.E.".  Block Beattaz bring it with their production and really set the EP off with the "The G" beat and give a street banger with "Juug". This prelude sets the tone for what we will be getting for G and will hold over your appetite until the

Rating: 3.5/5 spins

Replays: Crown, Smokin Mirrors

Best Feature:

Twitter: @2lettaz   

 

[NEW 2013 VIDEO] "Thoughts of a Leader" @PTPrimeTime ft. @ZillaMuzik256

Audimatic - Monster



The Audible Doctor & Maticulous team up again as Audimatic for their new track "Monster". The duo are working on a new single but for now enjoy the free offering. Audible Doctor on the raps maticulous on the beats.

Theory Hazit featuring B. Reith // Remixed by Beautiful Eulogy @th3oryhazit - Find me

Theory Hazit is one of my favorite artists and Humble Beast is one of my favorite labels. Beautiful Eulogy did a good job remixing this track. You can keep up with theory hazit on twitter at @th3oryhazit or you can go to www.humblebeast.com . What do you think about the video?

Writer Jones @writerjones -I am Still Hip Hop

Yo!!! Writer Jones breaks hip hop down within this spoken word piece. It doesn't matter if you like spoken word, if your old school or new school... you should check out this video as he breaks down the current state of this fickle genre. What's yout thoughts on it or disagree?  Leave a comment and let's see if we can all agree with the state of hip hop.You can keep up with Writer Jones on twitter @writerjones

Big Gen @breadstacker - Money on My Mind Music Motion Picture

Yo, Big Gen is showing artists how to put together a real promo video/movie for their album. We salute him for that. #MOMM Music Motion Picture gives a description of how Big Gen got his start in the music Industry. Also, peep that cameo of super producer, Snipe, in there being a comedian. For more Info on Big Gen go to @ www.BREADSTACKERONLINE.com and also check out the director of the video, Brandon Mason, at www.DIRECTORBMASON.com

@BREADSTACKER
@BMASON2U

Spin Doctors Sessions- Down Lopaz (www.downlopaz.com) @downlopaz

SC: Where you repping?
DL: Honestly, I rep myself. I was born in Pittsburgh, PA. I got love for that city, but then moved to the DMV and North Carolina is where I reside. I realized people struggle all over and there is no one place that is better than the other or have made me the man that I am. Therefore, I don't go out of my way to rep any geographic area but instead represent myself to the fullest with my grind.

SC: What caused you to create Down lopaz?
DL: I created these websites, because I reached a crossroads in my life. After 10 years of working in music, my best friend (Mr. Drumma) decided to get married. Now my best friend and I had a studio, an LLC, etc. Once he got married, his priorities changed (and I completely understand why) and therefore we shut down operations. I realized that all that time I have come full circle and had nothing to show for it. I had no fame, no fan base, no income, nothing. The only thing I did have was the knowledge I learned the hard way over the years. I decided not to let that go to waste and to not give up my hope of earning a living in the music industry. Once I decided to keep pushing the idea to do this just hit me.

SC: You're pretty blunt on your reviews (lol) and also consider yourself the "Uncle Rukus of Rap". In your opinion, what is the difference between a hater and a critic?
DL: Lol, Technically I'm not Uncle Ruckus. That's Mr. Drumma's segment, but he never found time to work on it. So, I took it and ran with it because I have the same feelings towards rappers. The difference between hater and critic is the ability to give props where they are due. See a hater will hate no matter what but a critic can be convinced by the quality of music. Here's an example; for a while I had nothing positive to say about Lil B The Based God, for good reason though because he continues to drop trash mixtape after mixtape. Yet, when he dropped his album "I'm Gay", it opened my eyes. He isn't that talented, but can make good songs when he tries. I gave him his props on that and when I try to tell people the Gay Album is pretty good no one wants to give it a shot due to preconceived notions or hate. 

SC: In your defense, you give a lot of tips for artists. Do you feel artists have become lazy?
DL: Definitely. Technology and money has whipped most of today's artist. Instead of collaborating with equal peers, they rather send a track over the internet for someone to record a verse. Many artists idea of promotion is to send out ten tweets to people who don't give care about their music. Most don't take the time to memorize their lyrics or even to edit rough draft lyrics. Too many try to freestyle whole mixtapes and think because its a "freestyle" covers up the fact that its garbage! Rappers see the money in the videos and such thinking "those artist made it but they aren't even trying.... I can do that". It is a lazy epidemic and many have the nerve to complain when they don't succeed. 

SC: Staying in that lane, what are some of your thoughts on the current state of hip hop?
DL: Honestly, the current state of Hip Hop is regressing back underground and that's a good thing. The times of the big money, platinum albums, million dollar videos, million dollar deals, etc. are dying out with few exceptions. The reason why I say its a good thing is because once the big money dries up then the quality of music will rise because all those chasing the money not the music will get out the way. I'm sure the game will never get back to making that much money ever again, but will always be relevant in the commercial industry.

SC: What are some pet peeves that artists do that you see (referring to your website and youtube page)?
DL: First of all everything they do has to be about them. They watch a video and say "check me out". They hear a song and say "I can do better". They are featured on a mixtape and say "listen to the track I'm on". I understand they want recognition but the selfish attitudes are crazy annoying. Show others the love you want and you will be rewarded for it. Second thing is I give many artists information that will take years to work on and get better but then the very next mixtape ask "how am I doing now"? Nothing about this game is instant and I give out long term knowledge. Promotion wise, they don't try and then complain when no one gives their music a shot. Honestly, there are many and I could keep going on and on.

SC: What are 3 tips you would give inspiring artists?
DL: First, develop your skills. Just because the commercial industry is terrible doesn't mean it's ok for you to be as well. A lot of these rappers who get on today get lucky, have connections, or many other things that you don't have. Therefore you aren't on the same playing field and need quality music to help push you. Second, only rely on yourself. There are too many out there that only want to shine with you instead of grind with you. Many don't have your best interest in mind, but will pretend that they do. Their actions always give them away everytime. Third, when you are ready skill wise promote your butt off. Promotion is the key to success and if your promotion isn't right you aren't going anywhere.

SC: Any last words or shout outs?
DL: If you want to be a rapper understand the money, women, and notoriety will come when you build a buzz. To build a buzz takes years; I like to say a minimum of 10, so it makes no sense to get caught up in the money, women, and notoriety. If those are the reasons why you want to rap then you won't last. You must be about more. You must love the craft to the point you will do it broke, with your back against the wall, in exchange for a social life, etc. If you're not that serious you are wasting your time. I would like to thank you for this opportunity and tell everyone out there to keep grinding.     

Chicangeorge @chicangeorge - "The Post Game Show" Video Promo

Check out Chicangeorge promo video for "The Post Game Show". He actually has it set up like a post game conference. Dope. You can check him out on twitter at @chicangeorge or at www.chicanschoice.com .  Spin it or Scratch it? Let us know your thoughts.

Audible Doctor "The Winter Tape" EP Review

Madison, Wisconsin producer, Audible Doctor, is cold with the beats. Therefore, it was only right for him to drop "The Winter Tape". He produces all four tracks on the EP and leaves his signature sound them. He receives feature verses on three of the songs, but brings it on "the last song". This is a dope mixtape! This EP shows how hip hop is still alive and well. It's also bitter sweet that the EP is only 11:56 long (or should I say short). Just as I get into the project...it's over. That's the disadvantage of a EP. However, it leaves the fans/listeners wanting more. "The Winter" really sets the mood for the EP. The imagery and wordplay allow you to understand the concept of the EP. Audible Doctor lets us know that "he's not worried about the glory and how spitting lyrics are mandatory". It's also mandatory that you listen to these lyrics and production"The Winter Tape". If you think hip hop is dead and are giving it a cold shoulder, Audible Doctor just brought you a heated debate.

Rating:4.5/5 Spins

Replays: The Winter, Last Song

Best Feature: Davenport Grimes/ J Nics

Twitter: @audibledoctor

 

 

Brown Bag All Stars @brownbagallstar - Brown (J57 Remix) Video

Check out Brown Bag All Stars "Brown" video. It's really a ill video. You can buy the song at www.brownbagallstars.com

M.A.J.O.R.S. @itsmajors "Shots Fired" Video

M.A.J.O.R.S. brings some HOT bars over Biggie Smalls' "Who shot ya" beat. You can check out the mixtape and a review here. You can check out more from him at  www.itsmajors.wix.com/majors

Bakery Boys @bakery_boys - Prologue #002 "Light Work"

Check out london hip hop group,  Bakery Boys, "Light Work" video. Not only are the lyrics hot (not to mention the Tom Jones sample), but the video is as well. WARNING! THIS VIDEO DOES HAVE SOME FLASHING IMAGERY THOUGH! You can go to http://www.bakeryboys.co.uk/ to find more about them.

Spin Doctors Sessions- DJ Cadillac @DJCADILLAC

SC: Where you repping?
DC: I rep Alabama but I don't let people forget that I'm originally from Fayetteville, North Carolina.

SC: How did you get your DJ name?
DC: The nickname Cadillac was given by a friend's mother due to the fact that all of his government names begin with a "C". After several attempts the name "Cadillac" came about and to him, nothing was a better fit. By him loving music so much, "DJ" was added onto the name and that's how the name "DJ Cadillac" was created.

SC: How was it DJing for Slim Dunkin?
DC: I only knew SLIM DUNKIN for a short period of time. Not even for a full year.  But by him giving me my first opportunity at success and  fame,  I will always thank him for that. Before I could actually do shows with him, we were set to take off January 2012. Sadly, tragedy struck December 16th 2011 rapidly and sadly ending our success together.

SC: With the death of Slim Dunkin and several other incidents amongst several artists, what are your thoughts about artists beefing?
DC: To me, artist beefing is a waste of time. I'm sure most artist beefing are already famous and getting money, so your actually taking the time to stoop down and diss another person.To me, that's showing your fans you're weak and you pay attention to pettiness. They should be taking the time showing another upcoming artist how to make it like they did (meaning support one another). If you have 2 artist that are known and liked by everyone why not team up and be a double threat such as Young jeezy and gucci mane.

SC: Switching gears, I know you have named yourself "your girl's favorite DJ" and have a huge following with your "Headboard Bangerz" series. How important is it for you, or DJs in general, to do more than just host hip hop/rap mixtapes?
DC: Speaking from my view... doing other series of music is important because majority of mixtapes that are out are 90% rap. No one takes the time to take you back to the music that made you feel good and remember the times.

SC: What are some problems that you see within the hip hop game?
DC:  Some of the problems I see in the rap game is not enough creativity.  People are sounding the same. I think most people should study the old days and what made them so successful. Whether its R&B or Hip-Hop. I myself love to hear a sampled song, so if most artist focused on that maybe there could be a little more originality. This may sound contradicting but will also set you apart from others since everyone sounds the same.

SC: What are some of your pet peeves that artists do to you?
DC: Some of my pet peeves artist do is ... always try to get the DJ to play there music when no one has heard it or want you to break a club set to play it. They never tip the DJ and they always got something going, but never follow through. No one does ground work no more (meaning street promotions interacting with your town/community) its only Internet promo.

SC: What are three tips that you could give artists?
DC:  Stay focused and consistent, get a strong loyal campaign, invest in yourself, and believe in yourself and brand and others will too

SC: Any shout outs or last words?
DC: I would like to give a shout out to God for allowing to continue to do what i love to do best and shout to everyone who believes in me, my movement and what i have going on. Also, last but not least, CapOstatus/Hoodrich ent. and DayBreak Promotions/Revive Saturdays/Smoking Moose Kevin Bryan and Clint Mcjenkin for the new opportunity with a new atmosphere.

Malik Ferraud @malikferraud - I wish (single)

In honor of Baltimore week, We highlight great Baltimore emcee, Malik Ferraud, with his track "I wish". Dope beat by Hannibal King.

TC da Don @iamtcdadon - Tha trap is my Studio Mixtape review

It seems as though Trap music has become a inquired taste within mainstream hip hop and rap. Artists from all coast use this sound. Understanding the concept of "supply and demand" and leading in trap style production, Birmingham, Alabama triple threat (Producer, engineer and rapper) TC da Don brings us "Tha trap is my studio". Co signed by DJ New Era, TC da Don gives us a conceptional beat tape dealing with...trapping. What I love about this beat tape is that it has a theme and sticks to it all the way through. Even though I don't agree with "trapping", I can say that TC da Don has me "trapped" listening to these beats.

Rate:4.5/5 Spins

Replays: Danger Alert, First 48, The Mob

Best Feature: N/A

Twitter: @iamtcdadon

 

King Los @iamkinglos - Purple Reign

In honor of the Baltimore Ravens winning the Superbowl, we decided to post Los's "Purple Reign" song repping his hometown.

Lecrae - FAKIN Feat. Thi'sl (@lecrae @thisl @reachrecords)

Lecrae - FAKIN Feat. Thi'sl (@lecrae @thisl @reachrecords) I'm not gonna front...this is a hilarious and real video! Directed & Produced by: Isaac Deitz l Lecrae's latest album "Gravity" IN STORES NOW! It All Comes Down.

Mixtape- Odessey @PrinceOddessey "Failure's Not an Option"

Check out a interview with Oddessey with Chicangeorge discussing this mixtape here.

S.T. 2 Lettaz Trillmatic video

S.T. 2 Lettaz - "Trillmatic" produced by the Block Beattaz From the upcoming Album "The G... The Growth and Development" Feb. 19th Slow Motion Soundz / InGrooves / Blue Collar Gang