New Joint: "Gadget Ho" - J-Zone

Damn, that's a sick background for an album cover. J-Zone is back baby! The hip hop producer extraordinaire is fresh out of retirement with this brand new track "Gadget Ho". Check out an excerpt from the official press release, with sincere words from J-Zone on why he's back in the rap music business post-retirement:

It Took A Decade, But J-Zone Is Back With “Peter Pan Syndrome” (AKA The Soundtrack For 30-Somethings Who Feel “Growing Up” Is Not An Option!)

“Inspiration always knocks on the door when you’re trying to get some sleep. That’s the only explanation I’ve got for returning to being a recording artist after my well-documented and firm retirement from the music business in 2009. I didn’t think there was a snowball’s chance under Paula Deen's ass that I’d ever make music again. I’m returning to an uphill climb: bloggers and tastemakers half my age, general relevance that has gone from minimal to nearly non-existent and the viral phenomenon has replaced the slow burn method I’ve become accustomed to. But every Jay-Z needs a broke cousin counterpart like J-Zone to return to a (much) more modest rap arena after sworn retirement.

Like my turbulent ups and downs in the music biz inspired my book (Root For the Villain), the rollercoaster ride of life-altering decisions and expectations that have come with post-rap life (and one’s 30s in general) have inspired my first J-Zone solo album in nine years, Peter Pan Syndrome. Of course it’s somewhat of a concept album; I had to ask myself (and the general public) “Do rap artists ever have to ‘grow up?’” If so, what does that entail?"

J-Zone’s triumphant return on "Peter Pan Syndrome" will be released on 9-10-2013

J-Zone online: j-zone.bandcamp.com | www.govillaingo.com | @jzonedonttweet

**Shout goes out to Complex.com for the premier.**

New Joint: "Gods Gone Crazy" - Murs

Murs presents "Gods Gone Crazy", the first exclusive track from Yumiko: Curse Of The Merch Girl, his album and graphic novel collaboration with Josh Blaylock, available only on Murs' Kickstarter page.

The album and novel unite to tell the story of Yumi Morales, a girl living the fabled tour life working the merchandise table for her boyfriend Dominick's band Murder Acts. The 124-page graphic novel is illustrated by Jose Garcia, written by Josh Blaylock and the ten-song album - whose lyrics are printed in their entirety throughout the novel - is produced entirely by DJ Foundation. Yumiko is available only via the project's Kickstarter page, where a range of different pledge options will get you everything from the novel and CD to exclusive apparel, custom download cards illustrated by David Mack and Jim Mahfood, and a personal thank-you note and Twitter follow from Murs.

Followed by the release of the album and book, an animated music video will officially be unveiled at Murs' party during the Comic-Con convention in San Diego. "Yumiko is hip hop and comics done correctly," says Murs of the project. "Comics have always been a huge inspiration to me. And having the chance to publish my own comic is truly an honor. Working with my partners to create this book was a lot of fun and we are looking forward to making our dream a reality with the help of the fans."

Murs can also be seen reviewing recent issues of Batman, Catwoman and Wolverine for G4TV's Fresh Ink Online blog (click here).

Download: "Gods Gone Crazy" - Murs

Links:
http://mursworld.com/
https://twitter.com/#!/murs
http://mursworld.tumblr.com/

Murs To Release New Album & Graphic Novel "Yumiko: Curse of the Merch Girl"

The man is right, nothing like this has been done in the music industry ever before.

Murs proudly presents 'Yumiko: Curse Of The Merch Girl', a brand new album and graphic novel available exclusively through Kickstarter. The album and novel unite to tell the story of Yumi Morales, a girl living the fabled tour life working the merchandise table for her boyfriend Dominick's band Murder Acts.

The 124-page graphic novel is illustrated by Jose Garcia, written by Josh Blaylock and the ten-song album - whose lyrics are printed in their entirety throughout the novel - is produced entirely by DJ Foundation. Yumiko is available only via the project's Kickstarter page, where a range of different pledge options will get you everything from the novel and CD to exclusive apparel, custom download cards illustrated by David Mack and Jim Mahfood, and a personal thank-you note and Twitter follow from Murs.

Followed by the release of the album and book, an animated music video will officially be unveiled at Murs' party during the Comic-Con convention in San Diego. "Yumiko is hip hop and comics done correctly," says Murs of the project. "Comics have always been a huge inspiration to me. And having the chance to publish my own comic is truly an honor. Working with my partners to create this book was a lot of fun and we are looking forward to making our dream a reality with the help of the fans." Murs can also be seen reviewing recent issues of Batman, Catwoman and Wolverine for G4TV's Fresh Ink Online blog (click here).

Learn more and order your copy at: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1640692557/help-murs-launch-curse-of-the-merch-girl?ref=email

Murs links:
http://mursworld.com/
http://mursworld.tumblr.com/
https://twitter.com/#!/murs

Hip Hop Producer J-Zone Writes Debut Book "Root for the Villain: Rap, Bullshit, and a Celebration of Failure"

Here's a little piece of J-Zone:

Author blurb
J-ZONE is a connoisseur of humbling reality checks, lesser-known rap albums from the early ‘90s, self-deprecation, and full-fledged lampoonery. His primary hobby is assailing our daily acts of bullshit. Throughout his decade and change in the music business, he’s worked with the likes of Gnarls Barkley, The Lonely Island, Biz Markie, E-40, and Prince Paul, to name a few. As a writer, his work has been published in the Common Culture pop culture textbook series, SLAM Magazine, The Source, and London’s Hip-Hop Connection (HHC), among others. He’s a regular contributor for ego trip NYC and moonlights as a high school sports reporter in the New York Metropolitan area. J-Zone has also taught music classes in the SUNY (State University of New York) system. He’s an insubordinate curmudgeon and a New York native who will invoice you if you send him emoticon and acronym-laden text messages. He lives in Queens, New York with his beloved grandmother, “Evil E”.

To read the full excerpt from the book's first chapter, check out http://www.egotripland.com/j-zone-book-gadget-ho/

Jay-Z Gets The "I’m The White Guy" Treatment in Author Soren Baker's New Book

Jay-Z is the subject of the new book from esteemed author and journalist Soren Baker. I’m The White Guy – The Jay-Z Edition focuses on Baker’s interviews and interaction with Jay-Z, shedding an insightful light on one of rap’s most accomplished artists. During one of the books two interviews with Jay-Z, he says that Baker is “very knowledgeable.”

The book is available for purchase digitally on Amazon.com and Lulu.com. An Amazon Print on Demand version and an e-book version for the iTunes store will be available soon. The release of I’m The White Guy – The Jay-Z Edition comes in anticipation of the release of Jay-Z’s collaborative album with Kanye West, The Throne’s Watch The Throne.

Baker first met Jay-Z in 1996 and has interviewed him twice, once in 2000 and once in 2002. I’m The White Guy – The Jay-Z Edition includes Baker’s full interview with Jay-Z from 2000, published in its entirety for the first time. Baker also reflects upon that interview, details his 2002 meeting with Jay-Z in Chicagoand discusses Jay-Z’s evolution from a respected rapper into a visionary business mogul. Baker has been following Jay-Z’s music since 1989 and is one of the few writers to interview the magnate multiple times.

I’m The White Guy – The Jay-Z Edition is the second installment in Baker’s I’m The White Guy book series, which documents the life of white rap journalist Soren Baker. He has had more than 2,200 articles published in such outlets as the Los Angeles Times, Chicago Tribune, The Source, XXL and RedBullUSA.com. He’s also worked on television programs for VH1 and Fuse and his first book, The Music Library: The History of Rap and Hip-Hop, was published in 2006.

The first release in the I’m The White Guy series, I’m The White Guy – The Tech N9ne Edition, details Baker’s extensive work with the Kansas City rapper, whom he met in 2001. In addition to being one of the rapper’s most faithful journalistic champions, Baker wrote and produced Tech N9ne’s first two DVDs, The Tech N9ne Experience and The Psychumentary. I’m The White Guy – The Tech N9ne Edition is available digitally on Amazon.com and Lulu.com and through Amazon’s Print on Demand service.

Jay-Z Speaks On Honouring Memory of Notorious B.I.G. In Songs

This video is from an extended interview for the Decoded book. The short clip features Jay-Z talking about using portions of Biggie's lyrics in his songs to honour the late great rapper.

Jay-Z Explains Why "Rap Is Poetry" [Video]

Recently I finally finished reading Jay-Z's book "Decoded", and it was an amazing read. What I really loved about this book was how well Jay-Z articulated his beliefs about hip hop culture, which hooked me right away as I felt that I could relate to his words and their meaning.

In this video clip, Jay-Z clarifies that Rap is Poetry. Who can really disagree?

Buckshot Talks With Rob Stone About Being a CEO

Buckshot's book, 'The Common Knowledgy of the Entertainment Industry,' is out NOW! There is also an e-book version available at iTunes & Amazon. For more information on the basics visit: http://www.duckdown.com/commonknowledgy/

Buckshot 'The Common Knowledgy of The Entertainment Industry' Out Now

Buckshot has just released this 80-page, hard-cover book that is the same size as a standard CD digipak. The inside, back cover includes a CD insert with original audio from Buckshot. The book will be available in the audio section (Under 'B') at Best Buy, FYE, Borders & other independent record stores.

In addition to the hard-cover book, e-book formats (with full color photos) will be available at outlets such as iBook (iTunes), Kindle (Amazon), Sony Reader, & Nook (Barnes & Noble). Buckshot provides an A-Z guide on the basics of the Entertainment industry. which also includes a 15-track album with original Buckshot music based on the concepts from within the book.

Buckshot has recorded a series of educational interviews with people who play the role's of various positions that he highlights within the book. The first visual is Buckshot explaining the basics behind creating a record. He works alongside Young Piff, the winner of Boost Mobile & HOT 97's Summer Jam MC Battle.

DJ Premier Breaks Down Jay-Z's New Book "Decoded" In MTV Interview

In this video clip, the legendary hip hop veteran DJ Premiere shares his thoughts on the new book "Decoded" by Jay-Z. The book, which takes an introspective look at the lyrics behind Jay-Z's most influential tracks, is a complete break down of the superstar's punch-lines and metaphors in hip hop music.

Understand Rap Lyrics, New Book Explains Rap's Lyrical References

Breaking down the lyrics of some of hip hop's most notable quotes, this book apparently explains the references pertaining to some of rap's most historical lyrics. Understand Rap: Explanations of Confusing Rap Lyrics that You & Your Grandma Can Understand is now available on Amazon.

I say, if you can't understand the lyrics, you ain't paying close enough attention when you're listening. Still, the book probably makes for an entertaining read and/or some decent insights on lyrical interpretations.

A Literary Adventure In Hip Hop, Jay-Z Pens New Book Entitled "Decoded"

Recently it came to my attention that Jay-Z is set to release a new book in November, entitled "Decoded". A true hip hop lyricist, Jay-Z as an author should make for an interesting book and reading experience.

Here is how Jay-Z recently described his latest project:

“When I first started working on this book, I told my editor that I wanted it to do three important things. The first was to make the case that hip-hop lyrics—not just my lyrics, but those of every great MC—are poetry if you look at them closely enough. The second was I wanted the book to tell a little bit of the story of my generation, to show the context for the choices we made at a violent and chaotic crossroads in recent history. And the third piece was that I wanted the book to show how hip-hop created a way to take a very specific and powerful experience and turn it into a story that everyone in the world could feel and relate to.”

Fabolous Approached By Twitter For Book Idea On Trending Topics

MTV Shows

Fabolous recently sat down with an interview with King Sway on MTV. The rapper discussed details of a possible book deal in the works for Twitter regarding his powerful influence on starting trending topics. Those would be some valuable secrets!

Mommy, What's A ?uestlove? The Roots Member Plans To Pen New Book

Numerous reports are being posted that ?uestlove of legendary hip hop group The Roots is preparing to publish his very own book. With no official release date set in stone, the book is still roughly a year away from being published.

The book, entitled "Mommy, what's a ?uestlove?", is said to be filled with real life stories, celebrity encounters and thoughts on life and music presented in a conscious style of writing. This should be in an interesting read!

Book Review - Getting Signed! An Insider's Guide To The Record Industry (G. Howard)

During my time studying through the online extension school Berklee College of Music, I was (obviously) required to read books, all of which were loaded with information that has been useful for me along the way of my career in the music business.

One of these books is titled "Getting Signed! An Insiders Guide To The Record Industry" by George Howard. George is an accredited professor at Berklee, among many of his numerous jobs and ventures. I learned loads of stuff from Mr. Howard, but I thought I would share this review of his book with all of you whom may be interested in picking up a copy.

What I loved about this book:

When I first started studying the ins and outs of the music business, the case studies presented in this book were great examples based on stories featuring bands, musicians and labels that I actually knew of and even enjoyed.

The structure of this book made is great if you're looking to catch the attention of A&R executives at major and/or indie record labels. It outlines all the key players involved in providing an artist/band with the opportunity to construct the best possible record deal.

Overall this book is well written, in a manner which makes the information easy to digest. This helped me pick up the material quite easily, hence why I am creating this post.

Also, if you are serious about taking your career as an artist in the music business to the next level, check out berkleemusic.com for some online courses. Try out the "Getting Inside The Recording Industry" course, which is taught by George Howard. I'm sure it will give you a great foundation to get started on your music business path. Many other courses are available as well.

Have you taken any online course in the music business? Would you, as an indie hip hop artist and/or producer be interested in taking an affordable courses online to grow your knowledge in the rap music business? Please share your thoughts.

Rap Artist Jay-Z, Music Business Entrepreneur Dame Dash Each Releasing Biography

With his highly anticipated studio album Blue Print 3 soon to be released, rap artist Jay-Z just can't stop the hustle. The music business mogul has just signed a deal to release a new autobiography. Sean Carter's new tell all book, which is currently Untitled with no date of publication, but is sure to see the one of the richest rapper in the game collect yet another pay check.

This biography is said to include everything from Jay-Z's life and times on the streets of Brooklyn NY, to his rise as a rapper to a music business entrepreneur, to his relationships with R&B icon Beyonce, and other music industry celebs. His time at Roc-A-Fella, Def Jam and everything up to the newly formed Roc Nation imprint. The bio, which will probably going be a really interesting read, is still a work in progress.

On the other end of the music biz spectrum, mogul Dame Dash is also spilling the beans with his tell-all literary adventure which is set to be released 4th quarter 2009. It is speculated that Dame Dash will be "airing out" any details and grievances he has with his former Roc-A-Fella Records partner Sean Carter.

Dash's biography is supposed to be his rendition of his time in the music industry working with artists such as Jigga, Memphis Bleek, Beanie Siegel, M.O.P. among many others. Also it should chronicle his journey after Roc-A-Fella to the creation of his Dame Dash Music Group.

It has been widely reported that Dame Dash has hit some financial woes (damned recession), could this be the motive for his new book publishing venture ? What about Jay-Z ? I mean he's already valued at well over $300 million net worth, does he really need to publish a book ? Maybe, maybe not. Maybe the music fans want more from this artist and this former music business mogul.

"50th Law of Power", Book On Business Philosophies By 50 Cent

Some of you may be familiar with the book "The 48 Laws of Power", which is a an excellent book to read if you are going to get into business of any kind, but especially the music business. It has nothing to do with music or business, but everything to do with social and self philosophies that have been exemplified by people throughout history to wheel and maintain honour, respect and power.

Robert Greene, the author of this book, believes he has found someone who has mastered the 48 laws of power to succeed as an entrepreneur 50 cent has teamed up with Robert Greene for a joint venture in publishing the new book "The 50th Law". While Greene was at first skeptical of meeting and dealing with a celebrity, the project has now unfolded in to a great new literary work.

This book makes perfect sense for 50 cent, an entrepreneur who embodies the hunger of a hustler on the corner. Consider that 50 cent has made his mark on the Forbe Fortune list with a net income valued at over 400 million (US) dollars.

Due to be released in early September, 2009, this book is sure to fly off of the book shelves. An audio book will also be released read by both authors. I'm very interested in picking up a copy of both of these books, the 48 laws and the 50th law. What do you think ? Just another money grab or a great venture that will only increase 50's power and success as a music business mogul ?