New Video: "Rap vs Real" by Saigon

This is one of the most eye-opening tracks from "Bread and Circuses II", and also one of my favourites. Saigon keeps it G as always and spits the truth over a hard beat. I really like how he made contrasts of every line throughout the song. The shit he says is sort of a reminder to anybody out there thinkin' the rap game's all flashy cars and horny women. Here's the track along with some recently released visuals. Check it.

Originally posted @ Eternal Cadence

New Joint: "Maintain" by Dizzy Wright ft. Joey Bada$$

Awww yeah. This is some good blazing music after a stressful work day. I've been takin' it easy lately, but I think I'ma have to do what both Joey Bada$$ and Dizzy Wright are doing in the above picture. The two up and coming youngins came together to make a dope track over a soulful sample. This DJ Hoppa produced track's gonna be on Dizzy Wright's upcoming mixtape that hasn't been given a name yet. Enjoy!

New Video: Moe Pope & Quills Record "Pressure " for Converse Rubber Tracks

In the words of that asshole Bill O'Reilly "Fuck it, we'll do it live". This week's selection from Converse Rubber Tracks "Track of the Week" features the single "Pressure" from recording artist Moe Pope and Quills.

Watch as the band sets up, decide upon the way they will record the original single and then record a live version of “Pressure” off their new album "Let The Right Ones In" released January 22 via Brick Records.


For more on Moe Pope visit:
http://www.moepope.com
http://facebook.com/moepopemusic
http://twitter.com/moepope77

For more on Converse Rubber Tracks visit:
http://www.converse.com/rubbertracks

REKS Releases Cover Art & Track List For Upcoming "Revolution Cocktail" Album

Recently, we featured this new single "Judas" (Produced by Lee Bannon) from REKS's upcoming album "Revolution Cocktail".  Well, we finally got a look at the cover art and the track list, with features and productions credits.

Tracklist & credits for "Revolution Cocktail":

1.)    “Revolution Is Here” (produced by MoSS & Pro Logic)

2.)    “The Molotov” (produced by Soul Searchers)

3.)    “Flags” (produced by Numonics)

4.)    “Trust Us” f/ Bishop Lamont (produced by Numonics)

5.)    “Only Lonely” f/ EZDREAD (produced by Introspective Minds)

6.)    “Due Diligence” (produced by A3)

7.)    “Judas” (produced by Lee Bannon)

8.)    “Ahead Of My Time” f/ C-Scharp (produced by ATG)

9.)    “Fools Gold” f/ J Nics, Boycott Blues & EZDREAD (produced by Introspective Minds)

10.)   “Remember” f/ Big Pooh (produced by A3)

11.)   “Winners & Survivors” (produced by Delvaughn Tinned)

12.)   “Showoff” (Ooowee Baby) (produced by Jewbei)

13.)   “Devil Wears Prada” (produced by Hazardis Soundz)

14.)   “Forrest Gump” (produced by EZDREAD)

15.)   “Beast Bars” f/ Torae & Sha Stimuli (produced by Anthem)

16.)   “Save The Day” (produced by Anthem)

17.)   “Melancholy” f/ Singapore Kane & Sin (produced by Soul Searchers)

18.)   “Sorry/Friends With Benefits” (produced by Introspective Minds & Numonics)

19.)   “Dial Tone” f/ J Tronius & Danny “Skyhigh” McClain (produced by ATG)

20.)   “#Eyehaterappers Freestyle” (produced by Statik Selektah)

I'm definitely looking forward to this new album mainly for the content, but there are also some interesting looking guest features on here that I can't wait to hear. 

For more REKS content, check out: http://garglegrenades.com/ | http://rekshiphop.com/ | @therealreks

New Joint: "Slow Down" by Masta Ace (prod. by MF Doom)

This track right here is the first release from the MF Doom/Masta Ace collaboration album, "MA DOOM: Son of Yvonne". Being a Masta Ace fan, I've been eager to hear how this album would turn out, because I'm not too fond of MF Doom's music. I was kinda disappointed with the beat for this one, but the verses and idea of the song is still pretty cool. It's good to hear Masta Ace back on the mic. The release date for the album has yet to be announced.

Tonye Aganaba Releases New Track "Resist This" (Produced by REL!G!ON)

Tonye Aganaba is a dynamic and sultry singer-songwriter born in London, England and was raised in Canada. Now based in Vancouver B.C., her musical education has lent her voice to a collection spanning several genres of music such as Neo-Soul, Rock, and R&B. She has gained notoriety within the electronic world following her #1 Dubstep track "So Good" with Vancouver's Hirshee.

Tonye is far from a novice when it comes to the worldwide touring circuit. She has been invited to perform around the world and this has introduced her to a growing number of international fans.

Tonye has teamed up with producer REL!G!ON for her first neo-soul single which is now available through through Wandering Worx Music. In addition, Tonye is in production of her first acoustic EP, produced by Best Kept Secrets.

She continues her humanitarian efforts through her own organization called The Living Society that works alongside other establishments such as Diversity Project, Helping Hands and Project Ghetto Blaster.

Connect with Tonye Aganaba online: Website | Facebook | Twitter

Allindstrom.com Presents: Violating The Game: Chris Lighty Part 2

Here is part 2 of Al Lindstrom.com's Violating The Game video series, which features this interview with Chris Lighty. In this clip Chris discusses managing his recording artists, meeting with 50 cent, helping Drake land his Sprite commercial and other goodies. Take notes!

New Konvict Music Artist Money Jay Releases First Single "Death Row"‏

Born in the Bronx, New York, Money Jay moved to Decatur, Georgia at the age of two. His stay-at-home mother and truck driver father sought solace in the South, hoping to raise their family in a safer and slower environment; but trouble knows no borders.

“My folks had three other kids so there wasn't a lot of money to go around," admits Jay. "Folks used to roast me on my clothes so I wound up getting in a lot of fights. I knew I had to get my own if I wanted to be somebody. So after that, I started hustling.".

After being expelled from high-school in the 9th grade for gun possession, Jay was only given more free time to roam the streets. A couple of wrong turns eventually landed him on the wrong side of the law a few times. It wasn't until he saw his close friends and family getting jammed up with years-long bids that he decided that this was not the route he wanted to take.

"Everyone around me was getting locked up," says Money Jay. "They would call me from jail everyday and I didn't want to end up in the same boat so I turned to music to try and leave all that illegal bullshit alone."

Like anyone else that's grown up in the 80's and 90's, rap music was a dominant influence on Money Jay's life. He used to write down raps in school and share them with friends, which led to him actually recording some of his lyrics over beats. By age 16, he had built a home studio and started making and distributing his own mixtapes. Though music still wasn't his main focus, the product spread, demand grew and over time Money Jay's music was getting spins in some of Atlanta's most popular night clubs.

Ironically, it was a daytime occurrence that led to Jay being in the position he is now. "One day I was out hustling on Glenwood Road, and Akon came to the spot," remembers Jay. "He got a CD from me, drove off and then came right back saying he wanted to sign me. Even then I wasn't taking the music serious, and he could tell. But he always told me that I should."

"As soon as I got in the car, something told me to put his CD on. Once I heard it, I hit a U-turn and went back asking if this was really him rapping. When he told me it was, I wanted to sign him on the spot; but I knew he was still hustling so I let him know that if he got serious, I wanted him on my team."

Akon's advice initially fell on deaf ears as Money Jay opted to keep one foot in the streets. It wasn't until his younger brother was incarcerated that he started paying full attention. Keeping in contact with Akon, Jay finally left the streets alone and let him know he was ready to be a Konvict recording artist.

Since then, the musical partnership has been nothing short of promising. The first leak from Money Jay’s upcoming debut is the surging single "Death Row." The track is one part club-banger, one part salute to his brother and closest friends' legal problems.

"One day I was at the crib, watching 2Pac perform "Hit 'Em Up," says Jay about the inspiration behind the Sonny Digital-produced banger. "Knowing how I am and what I've been through, seeing that performance made me feel like I would've been signed with Death Row at their prime." While Death Row is now a thing of the past, Money Jay aims to keep that spirit alive with his future at Akon's Konvict Music label.

Well equipped with the voice, street cred and most importantly music to become rap's next big thing, it shouldn't be long before someone else is watching Money Jay on TV and gets inspired in the same way.

Download Money Jay’s “Death Row” MP3: http://hulkshare.com/1f1u2gvcjamq

iTunes Link: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/death-row-single/id426153254

Year Round Records' Artist Khaleel New Music Video "Hot Flames" (Prod. by Dj Premier

Here is some new music video from DJ Premier's compilation album “Get Used To Us” featuring Year Round Records' artist Khaleel, as well as a cameo appearance from Bun B. The new video for “Opportunity Knocks” by Nick Javas just premiered this past Thursday on MTVU.

R.Kelly Performs At World Cup's Opening Ceremonies In South Africa

R.Kelly was on hand to kick off the opening ceremonies for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Currently hosted in the country of South Africa, this high profile performance was viewed by tens of millions of viewers world wide.

R&B recording artist R.Kelly took time out to speak with the American Press about his new track "Sign Of Victory" and performing for the wild crowd at the World Cup.

Is this the resurgence of R.Kelly? Do you think this is the largest stage, thus far, of R.Kelly's career?

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.

Haitain Earthquake A Noble Cause Taken Up By Artists In The Rap Music Business

After the devastation of the recent 7.0 sized earth quake that ravaged through the country of Haiti, hip hop artists, CEO's and music fans a like are all showing their support. The whole industry is hopping on board.

Super star recording artist Wyclef Jean, who was born in Haiti, mourns the lost of his friend and fellow hip hop artist "Jimmy O". Wyclef has used this tragic event to create more awareness to his organization "YELE" which raises funds to support the people of Haiti during this terrible time.

"YELE" is a text message fundraiser started by Wyclef, which charges you per message. $5 from each message is donated to help Haitian's rebuild their homes destroyed in their nation. Show your support, search YELE on Google for more information.

Consumer Electronic Show In Vegas, Recording Artists Launch Products & Announce New Partnerships

The International Consumer Electronics Show is an annual event, taking place at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. It is a haven for big technology companies and superstar recording artists to make new deals, announce partnerships and launch new products. It's also a kick ass event to be a part of as you get to browse through all the latest gadgets that are about to hit the market.

Many superstar artists take part in the event, as it is useful to invest the time and efforts into a partnership which could have incredible advantages to your future music marketing campaigns.

Not only is it a clever strategy, it is just good business to make these type of investments, providing you've done thorough research and product development for your target market.

Among some notable product launches this year, were the expansion of the Monster Beats By Dr.Dre headphone line. Lady GaGa participated by starting the launch promoting the new set in red.

Monster Beats By Dr.Dre Solo RED HD Head Phones. Five dollars from the $230 pair is donated to aids research in Africa.(That's it?)

The Beats Spin, are a new comfortable pair for the hard working class Dj's.

Dr.Dre and Diddy also collaborated on a new head phone set of ear buds, check them out. Here is a video of the new product line expansion.

All in all the show was probably amazing. I have a friend who was there personally promoting his company's products. Hopefully he is doing well, and I'm sure I will hear all about it when he returns.

BET Hip Hop Awards Aims To Be Highlight Of October

Hip hop events are unlike any other, but one in particular is always regarded highly above most. The BET Hip Hop Awards show is where most hip hop, R&B and rap recording artists would love to receive recognition from their peers and the industry.

Most of the hip hop discussion this month will no doubt be about the awards show nominee's, performers and celebrity host plus guest list. This event takes place on Tuesday October 27t, being held in Atlanta Georgia. This year's ceremony will be led by the hilarious and talented Mike Epps will will surely kill it.

The page on BET.com features a count down as we draw closer to the show. Who are some of your favorite nominee's and/or artists performing ? Here are some of my predictions or three of the categories that interest me most.

I'm thinking that Rookie of the Year award is going to be no contest. Drake's year in the game has made him a household name in the popular rap music genre, making a large commercial impact. The other rap artists in this list made significant gains as well, I believe he will win. Kid Cudi cannot be counted out, I'm thinking he will be the runner up if not the actually award winner. Wale, B.O.B. and Dorrough get honourable mentions.

The list of nominee's for MVP of the Year '09 is all heavy hitters (save Drake, who has had a breakthrough year), but who's going to take it ? Jay-Z, T.I., Kanye West, and Lil Wayne all had a great year, but I'm going to put my chips on Wayne for this one, just got that feeling.

As for a category close to my heart (lol) the hip Hop Blog of the year. This one is a tough call, seeing as all of the sites/bogs listed are extremely credible and provide readers with quality posts. WorldStarHipHop.com, SOHH.com, ThisIs50.com, and NahRight.com are visited by this blog author frequently, but I have to say my favorite above all is AllHipHop.com. I think AllHipHop is taking this award home this year.

Post up some of your predictions.

Death Row Records, Producing Music To Making Movies

The iconic rap record label Death Row Records continues to expand it's enterprise after it's recent acquisition by WIDEawake Entertainment. The label is now heading up a new division for film production, Death Row Films. The first film to be released by the label is entitled "Sons 2 The Grave", which will be shot entirely in the city of Toronto, where WIDEawake Entertainment is operated.

Death Row as a record label, is said to be holding thousands of unreleased master recordings by all of the original legendary artists such as Tupac Shakur, Snoop Doggy Dogg and Dr.Dre among many others before the label was finally purchased at the start of this year. With already so much infamous history behind this company, the group begins another new chapter in it's music business enterprise.

The record company is reportedly planning to release music box sets for the millions of fans who still listen to the music by these artists. Dr.Dre's classic debut album "The Chronic" is to be re-released with extra features to entice the public interest in re-investing in old favorites. This is a very intelligent music business strategy by WIDEawake, using the popularity of these artists and their music to increase revenues exploiting the hits they already have while trying to turn unreleased material into new hits for the same market of customers.

By developing a film division the music group now has a new outlet for licensing their artist's music in all the movies that they will produce. This includes licensing previously unreleased songs for new movie soundtracks. Now the entertainment company achieves it's goal of generating income from the music, while developing a new avenue for music fans who are sure to be thrown lots of extra bonus materials for their money. How successful do you think this new business venture will turn out ?

Looking For A Record Deal, Why ?

Are you looking for a record deal, trying to get signed by a major label ? Why ? What do you expect the label to do for you as a rap artist in the music business ?

Ask yourself, what can a major label do for you that you cannot start to do now, by your self ? The whole catch 22 of getting signed to a label is that labels are only looking to sign an artist that already has his own vision, plans and music marketing strategies in action.

This is what is essential for building a successful venture in the music business. You must prove your worth or value, basically show the labels that you are already selling rap music and doing a damn good job of it. This will indicate that investing in your music is a wise and bankable option for the label.

Most artists will never get recognized by any major label, especially if they have not made it in to the music industry on their own. This usually happens the "hard way", where artists are kicking, screaming and fighting to get in through the music industry back door.

The truth is, if you are just "looking" for a record deal, you might as well be looking to win the lottery or follow the end of the rainbow to a fantasy pot of gold. Real rap artists break through the music industry scene by working hard, staying focused and achieving the goals that they have set for themselves and their music. So stop looking for a record deal, and instead go out there and create your own music business deals from which you can profit with your great music.

Check out the side bar of this blog for books that make excellent resources for learning the ins and outs of the music business (I have also read and recommend these particular books). Books, however, will only lead you to the door way, you must walk through it on your own accord.