Pitbull: Cuba Libre

José Martí, the “Apostle of Cuban Independence” believed, “Happiness exists on earth, and it is won through prudent exercise of reason, knowledge of the harmony of the universe, and constant practice of generosity.” While the realm of Hip-Hop at times is dominated by materialism or melancholy, Armondo “Pitbull” Perez is the personification of Martí’s belief. […]

Heltah Skeltah: The Odd Couple

Most noted for their natural chemistry and charisma, clearly evident on their stunning 1996 debut Nocturnal, Boot Camp Clik’s Heltah Skeltah have always managed to stand out from their competition in the ever-fickle rap game. After several years spent as solo artists and working loosely with the BCC, the dynamic duo releases their long-awaited third […]

DJ Khaled: Global Grind

When you hear the ever animated DJ Khaled bellow out his signature catchphrase “We the best!” on his various hit records, you’re not hearing an empty catchphrase, but the slogan by which the man exemplifies his career. Since 2006, Khaled has ridden the wave of his albums (Listennn…The Album, We The Best) and their various […]

Flesh-N-Bone: Unbreakable

He has spent the better part of the millennium stuck inside a six by nine cell, held behind cold walls and dealing with conditions that could break even the strongest man’s spirit. Coupled with the fact the group he helped elevate to superstar status had broken apart at the seams, one wouldn’t blame Stanley “Flesh-N-Bone” […]

Camp Lo: Fever Pitch

Call them “The Lo” if you’d like, but South Bronx reppin’ MCs Sonny Cheeba and Geechi Suede are still officially known as Camp Lo. Since their acclaimed 1997 debut Uptown Saturday Night and its hit “Luchini AKA This Is It,” Camp Lo have always been a fresh counterpoint to the mainstream Hip-Hop standard of the […]

GZA: Single Minded Pro

The release of Wu-Tang Clan’s Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) set the stage for the release of a string of solo albums from each of the nine collective members. In 1995 Raekwon introduced the critically acclaimed Only Built 4 Cuban Linx…, a theatrical album which is often thought to be responsible for much of the […]