New Joint: "Lamborghini Angels" - Lupe Fiasco

Lupe Fiasco lets go one last leak from his highly anticipated upcoming album Food & Liqour 2. The track is produced by Mr. Inkredible. Cop this single on iTunes.

New Single: Rox f/Rick Ross "Self Paid" Hosted By DJ Khaled

Rox will be releasing his forthcoming mixtape, “22nd Century,” this Spring and it features appearances from Rick Ross, Sean Kingston, Nate Dogg, Kardinal Offishal, Jasmine Lopez, Yonas and production from mainstream producer JR Rotem.

Download the newest single from Canadian hip hop artist Rox featuring Rick Ross "Self Paid"

Eminem's Relapse 2 Album Release Date Should Be Announced Soon

There's lots of hype going into Relapse 2, the sequel to rap star Eminem's most recent album which hit stores late last year. As the release date for this record should be announced soon (pfft, probably 4th quarter), all kinds of rumors will circulate regarding track list, production credits and guest features.

While the first Relapse album only featured 2 other guests, both of which were superstar producer Dr.Dre and rap artist entrepreneur 50 Cent, there's rumors that we may see more artist collaborations on this next project, including a track with the members of D12.

Reports are spreading that the all star production line up includes The Alchemist, Denaun Porter (D12), with Just Blaze and of course Dr. Dre all leaving their creative marks on the upcoming album.

If the last album is any indication of how good this next one will be, I'm sure music fans every where will get their fix. I know I'm hooked on the shit, let's have it!

Rap Legend Rakim Still Grinding, Sets Release Date of "Seventh Seal"

What should you expect when a legendary rap artist decides it's his turn to shine in 2009 ? Believe that he'll be paid in full ! Superstar rapper and hip hop icon Rakim has announced a date for the release of his highly anticipated album "The Seventh Seal".



Originally this album was going to be released years ago through the hip hop giant record label Aftermath, distributed through Inter scope. However, due to creative difference, Rakim left the label to pursue his creative visions for this album.

Rakim has stated that this new album is completely fresh with all new joints. None of the songs from his time at Aftermath have made it onto the album. Although the rap superstar never rules out working out with super producer Dr.Dre in the future. "No doubt, if the timing on the projects are right.".

Now, in 2009 the album is about to finally come to fruition. A joint venture between Rakim's own Ra Records label and Tuscan Villa Entertainment. "The Seven Seals" will be distributed through Fontana/Universal Music Group.

"Holy Are You" is the first single off of the album, which was scheduled to be released on July 28th. To no body's surprise the single leaked way before then. Peep the man, the icon is still on the grind and getting paid. Although the lyrical mastermind is more on the spiritual tip, his music still resonates with fans all over the hip hop world.

Rap Music Leaks of the Week

This posts includes a list of leak victims from the past week or so.

"The Voice", new album from southern rapper Mike Jones leaked online on April 22nd, then it officially released on April 28th. Hip hop (sick) artist Tech N9ne's anticipated album "Sickology 101" hit the web on the 22nd of April as well. The album was also released on the 28th.

"Fantasy Ride" is the new album from sexy R&B sensation Ciara, which officially hit the streets and shelves at record stores on May 5th. It leaked almost 2 weeks early after hitting the world wide web on April 23rd.

I make mention of these leaks because I have begun to notice a trend of leaks occurring earlier and earlier. As we have become a more tech savvy society, even moderately skilled computer users are learning how to find music from an album before it's even released. That's incredible !

After 10 years of ripping and burning new music and creating unique mixes, music fans are even taking control of the supply-and-demand principle. Leaks used to happen the night (or 2/3 days) before an actual release date for an album. Some albums have been leaking 2 to 3 weeks in advanced, sometimes even a month before which is unheard of. Could it just be that there is no coincidence, people who steal the music from an album before it's release will do so whenever they can ?

What do you think ? How often do you search for the torrent of an album and download it before it's even hit the street ? I rip music all the time, actively sharing my favorite songs with friends and peers. I understand the ethical argument, so stay tuned for one of my next posts which will go in depth on the great debate of digital media: downloading.