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Remy Ma Working To Overturn Prison Sentence

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
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Seeking to overturn a near decade prison sentence, rapper Remy Ma has retained the legal services of decorated trial attorney William “Billy” Murphy, Jr.

 

Murphy first gained national exposure by obtaining an acquittal for fight promoter Don King on federal charges of defrauding Lloyd’s of London.

 

Recently, he reversed a $1.6 million verdict against rapper DMX and secured a civil judgment of $35 million for former Ravens Defensive End Michael McCrary.

 

Murphy is a senior partner in the Murphy Firm and represents DMX, Redman, Mary J. bilge, and Missy Elliott.

 

“We are pleased to handle Remy Ma’s appeal,” Murphy explained to AllHipHop.com. “We are confident that when we present all the facts, the public for the first time will get a true picture of what actually happened; and Remy will be vindicated.”

 

Assisting Murphy on the case will be partner Kenneth Ravenell and New York attorney Ricahrd Levitt.

 

With a new legal team, Remy feels her chances of a successful appeal have increased tenfold.

 

“With the addition of Mr. Murphy, Ravenell, and Levitt, I now believe I have assembled a team that will have the might and expertise to tell my side of the story,” stated a hopeful Remy Ma. “I am confident that after hearing everything my side will prevail. Mr. Murphy comes highly recommended and I am pleased that he has agreed to lead my defense team.”

 

On July 14, 2007 Remy Ma is alleged to have shot her best friend in the stomach due to a money dispute.

 

She was sentenced to 8 years in prison on assault, illegal weapons possession, and attempted coercion charges on May 13, 2008.

 

Awaiting appeal, Remy Ma is currently serving her sentence at Bedford Hills Correctional Facility for Women.

Master P. Gets Key To City Of Memphis

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
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Reformed Gangsta rapper Master P. was rewarded for his community work over the weekend, when he received the key to the city of Memphis, Tennessee.

 

Memphis Mayor Willie Herenton presented Master P. with the key on Saturday (August 1) during the first annual “Let The Kids Grow Day,” which was held at the Mud Island Amphitheatre.

 

The goal of the free back-to-school event was to spread positive messages about education and to steer elementary and middle school children away from drugs and crime.

 

“No other rapper or entertainer is as committed to the community as Master P and I am proud of him,” Mayor Herenton said. “Master P changed his life and took the negativity out of his music but stayed true to the hood.”

 

The event also drew out a number of influential supporters, including Memphis City Schools Superintendent Kriner Cash, as well as Memphis native Morgan Freeman, who attended the event with his granddaughter.

 

The children were also entertained by Master P.’s son Romeo, as well as the new character they’ve created, Gee Gee the Giraffe.

 

“My mission is to give inner-city kids a jump on education and the best possible start,” said Miller. “I want those kids and my own kids to be better than me. I’ve been luckier than most to have a second chance at life. We train our kids to be good athletes, why can’t we train our kids to be good students.”

 

The 1st annual “Let The Kids Grow Day” was sponsored by P. Miller Clothing, Jim Finkl Enterprises, Heal the Hood Foundation, and Wal-Mart.

Michael Corleone Blanco: The Son Of Cocaine Cowboys’ Griselda Blanco Speaks!

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: Reviews / Music
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Ever think what it would be like growing up in a family engrossed in crime? You might be able to get a small glimpse into the life when you watch a mafia movie or read up on the come up on the most well known mobsters. Well if you ever wanted the real deal then Michael Corleone Blanco is your guy. The son of Griselda Blanco of Cocaine Cowboys 2 fame, he would be literally born into the street life as he was named after the after the fictional character Michael Corleone played by Al Pacino in the movie trilogy The Godfather. Gangster right?

 

Now almost thirty years later, Michael finally speaks on growing up in the household with “The Godmother” at the helm. In his first interview ever, Michael sheds light on his notorious mother, his precarious childhood, and life beyond the Blanco name.

 

AllHipHop.com: You’re the son of Griselda Blanco. How was she as a mother?

 

Michael Corleone Blanco: As far as my mother goes, I’d like to compare my upbringing as far as a family upbringing, you know how the Italians have The Sopranos and it’s a family being a family, that’s how it was growing up in the Blanco household. You would catch my mother with her maids making dinner you know? Besides everything that was obvious to a child’s eye, it was having family order. Just like a regular family’s chain of command, my mother has always been the head of the household. My mother always took care of the boys and from there me and my brothers were the head honchos of the family and we told everyone else what it was. It was a good upbringing. Christmas came around and I got my first Porsche at six years old.

 

 

AllHipHop.com: You had a Porsche at six years old?

 

Michael Corleone Blanco: Don’t get me wrong it was a go-cart (laughs). My father always tried to spoil us when we were young. My mother being the humble person she is, my upbringing wasn’t to be spoiled that much but yeah I was a kid that had a lot of things at my hands.

 

AllHipHop.com: So going from being young child going into your teenage years I assume you are starting to put two and two together about your mother dealings in the street?

 

Michael Corleone Blanco: Yeah. Well I mean I was a pretty fast learner when I was growing up. I guess its genetics. They couldn’t hide anything from me, even though everything was hidden from me like I said you can relate our family to the Italian families. And one thing my mother hates is lies. So anything that was cloaked or tried to be hidden from me, it was very easy to understand what was going around. I have witnessed certain events that I can’t really talk about. But it was certain things that maybe shocking to other kids to see and understand but to us, that’s it. That’s the lifestyle kid, it’s real, this is what it is and get over it.

 

AllHipHop.com: Did you attend regular schooling?

 

Michael Corleone Blanco: Yeah I grew up in public school in California, Miami, New York. When I went to Colombia, I finished my high school there. As far as that you know the truth is I was raised amongst normal people and the streets raised me too because at the age of six my whole family was incarcerated. My mother was incarcerated, my brothers were incarcerated a year after and my father was killed a year before my mother was incarcerated. I started paying rent by the time I was thirteen years old. I grew up in a regular society just like any kid in the streets that knows what moves the society; that’s how I grew up. I knew money wasn’t a thing, so it was in my nature to grow up how I grew up.

 

 

AllHipHop.com: Considering everything your family was involved in, did you ever fear for your life as you got older?

 

Michael Corleone Blanco: Yeah since I was a kid, I feared for my life. My first kidnapping attempt when they tried to get me I was four years old. When you see things get dropped off, when you seen dead bodies and when you seen some sh*t, you know of course you’ll always fear for your life and the people around you. But when you’re a teenager and you’re young, you think you are immortal. When you high strung, you’re high strung as it is. To top that off, I felt the right to represent my last name, so I never took shorts from anybody. It came to a point where I just grabbed my balls and said I’m not scared of nothing only the Lord’s wrath. I was raised to have that Christian mentality; I’m not scared of nothing but the Lord. I believe in Jesus.

 

AllHipHop.com: So you were raised Catholic?

 

Michael Corleone Blanco: I was raised Catholic by some of my legal guardians; at one point of my life I even lived with a minister. I contracted legal guardians like I contract artists now. I would meet someone that my mother would know and I would say I’m coming to you. I’m going to live in your house and I’m going to pay you rent and you’re going to be my legal guardian. This has been since I was twelve years old. At one point the legal guardian happened to be a minister and he taught me a lot about the Lord. 

 

AllHipHop.com: With your family being involved in serious drug trafficking, did you ever get tempted to get into the game yourself?

 

Michael Corleone Blanco: No comment.

 

AllHipHop.com: Charles Cosby played a significant role in your mother’s operation while she was incarcerated.

 

Michael Corleone Blanco: Basically the relationship I had with Charles was how they showed in Cocaine Cowboys 2. He was like a support system; he was around me when I was growing up. He was around my mother around her time in Dublin Correctional Facility. The man was around and if it wasn’t for him certain events wouldn’t had gone on. I just got to respect the fact the man was a support system for my family.

 

 

AllHipHop.com: When I spoke Charles, he mentioned that Colombians distrust people of color by nature. Did you hesitate to embrace him?

 

Michael Corleone Blanco: I would like to correct that. Everybody knows that my brother Chicky [Osvaldo “Chicky” Trujillo-Blanco] dealt with Blacks his whole life. He made his millions with Rayful Edmond. The old guard wouldn’t deal with Blacks but as far as the Colombians from the 80’s it was nothing but love.

 

AllHipHop.com: What about your mother Griselda Blanco do people misconstrue?

 

Michael Corleone Blanco: I think they don’t show her as people see a mother. You got to understand, she is my mother. She is the mother of four men and she is the godmother of hundreds of boys. She is the godmother of an entire neighborhood from 1972 on up and that’s why they call her La Madrina. She has always been a mother figure. They only show one side of this lady. They don’t show the side of the lady that had to feed her children or that slept with her boy every night or making sure her boys get a college education. They never show the lady who would wake up every morning and make breakfast with her maid. It’s really easy to make her the villain. She’s a good old lady, she’s a Christian now.

 

 

AllHipHop.com: How do you feel about the reputation that follows the Blanco family name and mainly Griselda?

 

Michael Corleone Blanco: As far as the street sh*t is concerned, I mean it is what it is. I don’t want to touch that subject. Everybody in Miami knows about The Blanco Group and my label Xtorxion Records. We’re a legit organization, everything is on paper. I had to put my past as a person from the streets of Miami behind me. Now the bad guys are the good guys. What we are trying to do is retire everyone from the street mind frame, because to be a survivor and survive, you have to evolve as men. It’s the evolution of street minded people that should have been legitimized years ago.

 

AllHipHop.com: You grew up with her and currently you are the only link the public has to your mother. From what you saw, were the numbers dealing with her earnings and the beef she had exaggerated? Or where they pretty much right on?

 

Michael Corleone Blanco: No it is not right on. It’s not right on at all, but was it blown up, I don’t know. If it is right then only God can judge it. Maybe they are under exaggerating, maybe they are over exaggerating. It goes vice versa because all that movie stuff and all that on the blue screen can only exaggerate so much but when you are physically present in that scene in real life just boils down it is what it is.

 

AllHipHop.com: Detail your efforts with your company The Blanco Group and Xtorxion Records.

 

Michael Corleone Blanco: Yeah it’s a branch of The Blanco Group but it’s the brother label of an organization called La Familia Click Underground. We started Hip-Hop in Colombia in the mid 80’s and early 90’s. We are the fathers of Hip-Hop. Xtorxion is my label and it is based out of Miami but it is much bigger than that. We are dropping the Cocaine Nowboys Mixtape. It’s nothing but real motherf***ers on it, real individuals that are relating to certain individuals with last names whether it be anyone from Harlem up north or down south in Miami. That will be coming in one to two weeks. I got a jewelry line called Blanco Diamonds as well. It’s all about the business.

Hell Rell: Bet On Black

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: Features
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Dipset’s smoking barrel, Hell Rell is aiming to survive in this fickle industry where yesterday is referred to as back in the day. The inner turmoil that plague the once triumphant Harlem Diplomats has bared its ugly head resulting in a reported two million dollar sale of Juelz Santana to Def Jam, amidst Jim Jones’ interest in his own Byrd Gang movement that is taking flight this year. It is clear that Dipset offshoots have to fend for themselves without the constant support of Cam’ron or Jones. But Hell Rell still has his hustler instinct and is able to maneuver through the storm. Rell has been a staple on online blogs and Hip-Hop sites as of late to keep his name fresh in support of his new project, Black Mask, Black Gloves on Babygrande Records.Ruger never is one to keep his supporters waiting; he has too much to offer with his own music imprint the Top Gunnas, which he is planning to release in the near future. He insist that the beefing is bad for business, and bad business does’t make good sense. So what is “The Hardest Out ” suppose to do but to keep killin’ them.AllHipHop.com: You have your sophomore release Black Mask, BlackGloves out now. How are you feeling?Hell Rell: I haven’t put out an album since August of last year. So I said [to myself] ‘you to the people.’ I actually took a pay cut because [what] I was asking for, they didn’t give it to me. But I was like f**k it; I [was] tired of people running up on me asking when I have something new coming out.  So I had to put it out to the streets.AllHipHop.com: What was the motivation on this album?Hell Rell: Basically [to] separate myself as an artist. At the end of the day groups come and go, artists are here forever. It’s not like we can be The Temptations where we can do shows at [Las] Vegas, you know what I’m saying. That’s very rare for Hip-Hop.Hell Rell “Ruga Stories Pt. 1”AllHipHop.com: Production wise, who is on the album?Hell Rell: I got my homeboy A.Raab, he remind me of a young Swizz Beatz. He just graduated from high school, he done alot of joints with Cam’ron [for] Killa Season …he did three or four joints for my last [album]. He just an animal, he can play the MPC like its live drums, the kid is a monster. That’s the same thing they were saying about Swizz, he was 17 years old doing “Ruff Ryders Anthem.”

“At the end of the day Diplomat Records pretty much is at a standstill. Everybody as an individual artist is doing what they are doing, but as far as a group there [is] nothing popping.”

AllHipHop.com: What’s the situation with Diplomat Records right now?Hell Rell: At the end of the day Diplomat Records pretty much is at a standstill. Everybody as an individual artist is doing what they are doing, but as far as a group there [is] nothing popping. No one is doing songs which each other; everyone is in their old little world doing what they got to do. Which is f**ked up because it’s bad for money and bad for business.AllHipHop.com: Why do you think everyone is doing their own thing right now?Hell Rell: It’s pride and egos, man. I’m a grown man, if you my n***a… I should feel like a [can] call you. I would put my pride to the side; I ain’t the type of person likem “I ain’t going to call that [man].” There is too much money on the table. I’m not going to cut off my nose to spite the face. Pride is a motherf**cker, it’s like cancer.AllHipHop.com: What is your current relationship with the Diplomat members?Hell Rell: Nobody is beefing. The business is not right, when you don’t communicate with someone on an everyday basis, it just doesn’t [work] right.AllHipHop.com: You have been heavy on the Internet in the past couple of months. What is the reason behind “Ruga Stories”?Hell Rell: I need to talk to the people for a minute. I wanted them to see what Ruga was getting into; I been off the scene. At the end of the day, I feel a lot of rappers took something from me; like i said in “Get Ready” if you came in the game after Ruga, I inspired you. I made you wear your hat to the side, [or] I made you diddy-bop a little harder. You got something from Ruga, everybody gets something from somebody.

Hell Rell “Get Ready” VideoAllHipHop.com: Are there any particular artist that you feel took something from you?Hell Rell: Nah, I’m just saying…it’s the quality of the music. You can just tell there is a influence; certain words I felt I started [and] introduced to the game. A lot of rappers use them, things like that. We all contribute but you have some n****s that don’t contribute and come in the game and sit around. I [feel] I have contributed to Hip-Hop.AllHipHop.com: In what way do you feel you contributed?Hell Rell: I feel I brought that grimy edge. Like “Oh, this n***a go hard.” but that lane was always there since N.W.A debuted with gangster Hip-Hop. It was always there [but] everyone had their lane; Eminem was in that Redman lane but he just stepped it up. Ludacris was in that Busta Rhymes lane, he always had that radio record. [They] didn’t really spill their life into [their] music. And it’s always the ones that sell their life through the music that win. I tell my story [through] the music and people relate to me.

“When you mention Dipset it’s Jimmy, Juelz and Cam, how can you forget Ruga? I done put in a lot of work and at the end of the day, you can’t name one record that I was on that had radio presence. I [wasn’t] on [any] Diplomat hit records but you know who Ruga Rell is.”

AllHipHop.com: It seems that the rest of the Dipset members are doing their own thing within  the realm of business and getting their music out to the people. Do you feel your approach to the industry is more business minded now?Hell Rell: Yeah, I came in the game on good faith, meaning that, if you told me the sky was blue [then] it was blue. If you said you going up I was prepared to go up…at the end of the day, anything told to me I ran with it. As you go along you learn the business, certain business transactions [because] other parties didn’t have you in their best interest. A lot people capitalize and exploit other people talents if they are not in the know. This is Hip-Hop, this s**t has nothing to do with you being a gangster or [being] tougher than you. If a n***a know he can find a way to make more money off of you, and throw you a little something to keep you happy at that present moment; he’s going to do it. And deal with the consequences later.Hell Rell “Ruga Stories Pt. 3”AllHipHop.com: Do you feel Hell Rell has been exploited?Hell Rell: I’m not going to say I got exploited in any way but as far as the accolades; when they mention Dipset I don’t get mentioned a lot. When you mention Dipset it’s Jimmy, Juelz and Cam, how can you forget Ruga? I done put in a lot of work and at the end of the day, you can’t name one record that I was on that had radio presence. I [wasn’t] on [any] Diplomat hit records but you know who Ruga Rell is. I wasn’t [on] “Oh Boy”, I wasn’t on “Santana’s Town,” I wasn’t on “Suck it or Not”…but I have a following. As much as you try to block a shining star; he’s going to shine.Hell Rell “Ruga Stories Pt. 6”

AHH Stray News: Method Man Stars In ‘Burn Notice’

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
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Wu-Tang Clan rapper/actor Method Man will make an appearance on USA Network’s original action series Burn Notice. The series stars Jeffery Donovan as Michael Westen, a blacklisted spy in Miami. Method Man, born Clifford Smith, will star as a music industry executive who believes one of his employee’s is stealing from him. Burn Notice also stars Gabrielle Anwar and Tricia Helfer. Burn Notice, which is in its second season, airs every Thursday at 10:00 PM. In related news, Method Man is putting the finishing touches on his self-titled graphic novel, Method Man, which is being written with David Atchinson and illustrated by Sanford Greene, who has worked with companies like Hasbro, Sega, Image Comics, Archie Comics, and Dark Horse Comics.

Hip-Hop Rumors: Jay-Z & Nas Rock The Bells! Detox Rumors! Scott Storch Still Ballin?

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: Rumors
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DISCLAIMER:

All content within this section is pure rumor and generally have no factual info outside of what the streets have whispered in our ear. Read on.

TODAY’S RUMORS!

SCOTT STORCH STILL BALLIN?

We all know Scott Storch is a baller at heart. But is he a real life baller and we’ve all been duped? The producer was recently seen perusing in the Miami area at various car dealerships looking at exotic cars. Dude was seen driving in a droptop Rolls Royce Phantom and looking at a yellow Lamborghini. Those things can run almost to a half a milli. Way to go!

RICK ROSS SPEAKS AGAIN

Rick Ross recently talked to Don Diva magazine and spoke on the charges that he was once a correctional officer. He says his life is all real, like he once told AllHipHop.com I just hope he’s not telling on himself in the interest of being “real.”

“When I’m making my music and I’m talking about blow, it’s because I did it,” the Miami rapper says. “When I say I’m rich off cocaine, it’s cause I did it… I took a lot of losses in this game. I took losses in the street, losses in this music. I never ratted on a n***a… I never locked up a n***a. I believe in the death penalty for rats.”

JACK BAUER TO DO AN R&B ALBUM!?!

Kiefer Sutherland, the actor from “24” is reportedly working on an R&B album? HUH? Isn’t he supposed to be working on saving the world? Rumor says, his singer name is K. Sutherland and the album will come out on his own Ironworks record label. I think this rumor might actually be true … or a freaking joke!

At any rate, here is something that’s not a rumor. “24” is coming back with a 2-hour prequel in November 08 and the regular season in January 2009!

JAY-Z SHOWED UP TO “ROCK THE BELLS” WITH NAS!

It all went down last night in New York! Ohhhhh yeah! Thank Aqua!

Nas spitting!

PAUL WALL’S FRIEND WAS “A GOOD KID”

You know, on Friday I didn’t get a chance to read the comments, but a few people did. One person complained about what the AHH Community was saying about Paul Wall’s friend that died. I don’t know the character of the dude that was killed (and sparked rumors that Paul was killed). But, I read a report. The report said that all the men involved in the “gunbattle” wielded guns and the firefight occurred at 11:30 am. Apparently the man that was slain was Emmanuel Hobbs. Here are some quotes used to describe him. “A good kid,” “very responsible,” “very sweet.” Not sure what went wrong, but something indeed went wrong if this is the person that was killed. Three others were wounded in the Houston shooting.

KHIA: 998 THOUSAND SHORT OF A MILLI!

Shelz told me that there was this ridiculous rumor that Khia’s Nasti Muzik album was supposed to have sold over a million copies its first week. I’m not sure when it came out, but am sure that I enjoy Khia’s music. It sooths my mind. But, selling mad units like is indeed mad. So… when the numbers came in, Skelz said “she was close, but no cigar.” Lo and behold, Khia pushed about 1,400 in her first week. So she only has 998,600 to go. From illseed and Shelz – we are rooting for Khia! Haters be damned!

MORE ON DR. DRE, BUSTA AND MR. PORTER

I heard there was a beat battle in Detroit and producer extraordinaire Mr. Porter was in the place to be. First, as you should know, Mr. Porter is a member of D12 and has been working for years on the Detox project with Dr. Dre. From what I heard, Porter played a number of his own tracks from the album. The only thing is, they didn’t make the album. I heard they were all sick, but didn’t “fit.”

What does “fit” really mean? I heard he played an incredible song with Busta Rhymes, Mary J, Jamie Foxx, and John Legend that was supposed to be on Detox. But the dope song isn’t because of the fact that Busta is no longer on Interscope. Obviously, this isn’t confirmed but it seems to be a rumor leaning on the truth. From what I am hearing about Detox is that there are going to be a lot of big stars on the opus. I have a feeling that this album is going to be ridiculously huge.

Maybe its time for Mr. Porter to do an album? You think? I do!

Detox is on the way: Do The Rog! Do The Rog!

What’s Happening?

THE OZONE AWARDS COMETH!Here’s what’s happening!

FACT: I have not other rumors about the Ozone Awards other than its going to be incredible. Ozone Magazine tapped DeRay Davis to host its 3rd Annual awards show in Houston, Texas. This is on Monday August 11th, at the George R Brown Convention Center. This awards show is geared towards talent in the South and Lil’ Wayne is getting the most nods with 8 nominations in more than 5 categories including TJ’s DJ’s Hustler Award, Club Banger of the Year and Best Lyricist. Other Nominees include T-Pain, Rick Ross, Plies, Kanye West, Killer Mike, Trick Daddy, Shawty Lo, Bun B, Trey Songz, Flo Rida, Usher, Young Jeezy, DJ Khaled, Greg Street, Akon, Ice Cube, Snoop and The Game. The Game and Kanye ain’t from the South. There will also be a special dedication to UGK great Pimp C. I have to say, I want Killer Mike to get something and he’s up for the Pimp C Trillest Award.Click here to cop tix for the awards show or visit ozone.mag.com.

BILL O’REILLY YAPS ABOUT OBAMA AND LUDACRIS

SHELZ WEIGHS IN ON RUMORVILLE!

Folks are Shooting in the Club Again….

ATL SHAWTY!

Jermaine Dupri is hosting his annual So So Def Summerfest this weekend here in the A with events spread over the entirety of the three days. Friday night was a big party at Club Dreams, a huge venue in Dekalb County. Late into the night JD, Usher, Nelly and Diddy took the stage, but some real angry dude took all the attention. Seems folk were mad that they were getting double charged to get into the VIP section of the club. Well, they were getting charged to get into the club and then an additional fee was being charged to get to VIP which is how I thought it was supposed to be. But I guess the guy with the gun thought differently. Anyways, security told him no. He said huh? There was all this pushing, shoving and general disorder and then he shot one of the security guards in the elbow. Didz, Nellz, Usher and JD as well as the other famous folk in the club; Sanaa Lathan, Gabrielle Union and Larenz Tate to name a few were alright. The mad un-VIP gunman has not been identified.

SHELZ’S RANDOM QUOTES

Well, it looks like folks have been shaking their heads, rattling that lil jelly bean between their ears. Interviewers and bloggers were making our favorite artists think this week. Here are some of my favorite quotes:

David Banner on the whole Obama/Luda thing:

“I believe in my heart that Ludacris should have the ability to say what he wants to say, but why should Obama connect himself to any negativity right now? We need to get Obama in office and Obama has to play the middle role. I think we’re too close to winning this thing to get off on frivolous stuff and to give people a reason to spit fire.”

Kanye West on being named to the “Best Dressed” list in Vanity Fair

“I’ve sat in front of this computer for 20 minutes trying to put into words how I feel… who all to thank… and how to celebrate… this is a true honor and I am humbled by it!!!”

-Kanye humble? When pigs fly past a frozen over hell. We know he knows he totally deserved it!

The automated time count down for phone calls at whatever jail Prodigy currently calls home letting P know his time was about up.

“You have 30 seconds left on this phone call.”

I think this was my favorite quote because it broke the monotony of listening to P drone on with his usual “Jay Z is a b####” rant. We’ve heard it before P. We know you’re still mad he called you a ballerina. Get over it.

Jay-Z on the “Put On” Remix

“I put Prodigy in his place on that summer jam screen”

Thanks, Jay! That one line will assure Prodigy will continue to babble on about S Dot’s “bitchassness” for decades to come.

Jackie-O on screwing for her advance

“I am not a w####!”

Well, it sounds more like sexual harassment at its most elevated level than hoe-ism to me, but some folks do see having sex for money as getting your w#### on. So she should have expected the backlash.

Mims on his relationship with 106 and Park’s hostess with the mostess

“I have never engaged in any sexual activity with Rocsi.”

Sounds like one of those Clinton denials to me. Maybe G-Unit missed the mark with this one. Hmmmm.

LADY DRAMA COMETH!

YAY…….Bernie Mac is still kicking!

A midst those horrible rumors Bernie Mac is alive and recovering from a case of pneumonia. According to people.com the funny man is alive and being treated in a Chicago hospital. Read on:

“Mr. Mac is responding well to treatment and will be released soon. He asked that his privacy and that of his family is respected while he gets well.”

I wish him a expedited recovery! Glad to hear he’s alive!

Nelly and TI get together…. Not like that ya’ll are NASTY 😉

So as usual my ears were to the streets and my eyes are glued to the monitor and low and behold I found out that Nelly and TI may be planning a joint album! According to Rap-up magazine the two rappers who both have solo albums releasing this year have thought about coming together on an album project! During a recent interview with Rap Up magazine Nelly stated:

“We talked about doing a joint together, a whole album,” the St. Louis rapper disclosed to the magazine. “It’s not about just selling records for me anymore ’cause I’ve done that. It’s about making something that people will remember.”

Now although both rappers have collaborated with each other on different tracks for each of their albums I don’t know if I could stand a whole album with them both! I can hardly stomach but so much of them one at a time let alone both! Not hatin I’m just saying! What do you all think?

Speaking of Nelly…… Congrats to him for joing the CSI cast, I hear he’ll be playing a club owner! Good look! See I give respect and props when it’s due guys!

Lady Drama’s Food For Thought:

Who was really hurt when they thought Bernie Mac really died? Aww 🙁

I hear Mya was photo’d with a wedding ring on… It’s about time someone wife’d that up, she needed something major to happen in her life cause her career is null and void!

Word is Chris Brown and Rihanna may be having issues but why is it that when a celebrity couple decides to do something separate they’re having problems…. Why can’t they just be tired of seeing a m###’s face once in a while damn!

Am I the only one anxious to see Diddy’s new show on VH1 tomorrow? It’s so sweet to see people make fools of themselves on cable TV at someone else’s expense! I LOVE it 😉

Remember go hard or go home!

A TRIBE CALLED QUEST!

Nas and Jay got people hype, but from what I heard, A Tribe Called Quest were the real stars of the show. The entire group and friends like Busta Rhymes and Consequence killed it! DJ Scratch, former DJ for EPMD, is now down with Q-Tip. Erick and P lost one right there.

A Tribe Called Quest “Buggin Out” @ Rock The Bells – aqua

DAVID BANNER VENTS ABOUT “THE GAME”

He doesn’t always finish his sentences, but you have to respect the passion Banner brings to the table. So all you “inspiring” rappers, take notes.

THIS IS BREAKIN’ : ELECTRIC BOOGALOO

When are Turbo and Ozone gonna get a Hip-Hop Honor?!

ILL PIC!

Phil Spector’s murder trial is about to start and guess what he decided to do? ENDORSE BARACK OBAMA! (See the little button that say “Barack Obama Rocks!”) Barack must be overjoy that such a musical genius-slash-wack job has endorsed him. This makes Ludacris look like Hanna Montana. Look at his deranged face, lip and that fabulous wig. Barack really does rock!

YESTERDAY, WE LOVE YOU!

They keep us talking, but if we stop talking about them then they should worry!

-illseed

WHO: illseed.com

WHAT: Rumors

WHERE: AllHipHop.com, MySpace.com/TheIllseed

HOW: Send your rumors and ill pics to illseed at ah*******@***il.com.

– allhiphop rumors

Peep Game: Madden 09! Free Wii? NCAA 09! 360 Official Price Drops!

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: Uncategorized
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Welcome back! Peep Game is here to deliver a healthy dose of gaming news. We have entered the month of

August, which means nothing but football! Both NCAA and Madden get time from

us this week.

 

For those who have still yet to jump into the

next-gen, or are avoiding the Xbox 360, price drops are on the horizon. Your

favorite RPG publisher, Square Enix, has some interesting news, and  Soul

Caliber IV brings you a little political humor.

 

Big News

 

Sign Up, Get

Wii?

 

Comcast and Nintendo are now doing a deal that

gets you a Nintendo Wii. You have to sign up for their two-year “Triple Play”

deal. That’s cable, internet and VOIP – and a free Wii is kicked in. If you

just moved into that new apartment, this may be a deal you want to jump on.

 

New Wii System

Coming

 

Speaking of Wii, there is an upgrade in the works.

That is obvious after its full success. According to Nintendo Wii Fanboy,

Nintendo President Satoru Iwata stated that they were “already working on

the Wii’s successor.” With their market dominance, one can only hope they

take more chances with the next machine, and maybe bring solid innovation along

with technological savvy.

 

Microsoft

360 Gears Up for Price Drop

 

The Microsoft system, the Xbox 360, is about to go

to the way of the price drop. The Arcade Units are dropping to $199, Pro units

$299, Elite units $399. This drops the systems most basic unit under the Wii’s

250, making it the newest, cheapest system for gamers. This should increase

sales into the holiday season, but I doubt the market’s competitors will let

that happen without recourse.

 

The 60 GB Pro units are also due to ship out

sometime this week, although some retailers already have their systems and are

selling them now. For those who are about to go out and buy, it may just be

best to wait it out a few weeks.

 

Life Hits PS3

 

Sony’s weather service has now hit the PSN. Those

who want to get news and weather from around the globe, simply access it, and

watch the clouds go by. This is basically a much more detailed version of Wii

News.

 

McCain Vs Obama!

Fight – Soul Caliber IV

 

A columnist from PC World was “a little bored” and came up with this gem. Just watch the video…I doubt I could explain it.

 

Eternity’s Child – Available on Steam

 

This is a rather interesting independent

platformer. Those who like to try something new, peep the trailer. It’s sharp,

bright, and just looks fun. It’s available on Valve’s Steam service for 4.99,

which isn’t a bad transaction if you’re looking for something to entertain you

for cheap. It rolls out with a level editor for the most creative out of all of

us. The game will also be available for the Nintendo Wii at a later date.

 

Burnout Paradise – Davis Update

 

Burnout

Paradise is certainly a fun game for anyone who likes making stars and

crashing cars, and now it comes with another update. In a rarity these days,

this DLC is available for free. It comes with Motorcycles, Day/Night cycles,

new Single Player, and Multi Player challenges. No word when this one drops,

but we will definitely keep you updated.

 

Square Enix

Makes Moves

 

Square Enix has created a casual gaming company,

called Pure Dreams, will be delivering DS titles in Japan. Their first two

titles seem to be working on games to help you choose wine, and games of that

nature. There is nothing too heavy for gamers, but it’s Japan only, where they

are used to these types of titles.

 

For the gamers however, Final Fantasy XIII: Agito and a Parasite Eve sequel are coming to the Playstation Portable. Both gamer were formerly listed as mobile phone only games and these titles should give Square Enix some more push on Portables besides their standard Final Fantasy (insert number here) port.

 

Final Fantasy VII Advent Children is coming out with an HD, Blu-ray version. Along with the disc come videos of the aforementioned Agito and Final Fantasy XIII: Versus, as well as a Final Fantasy XIII demo. Not a bad deal, especially for Final Fantasy VII lovers.

 

Trailers – Midnight Club III and Sonic Unleashed: The Dark Brotherhood

 

Rockstar’s racer is back, and they decided to

bless us with a second trailer. In addition, the game’s website has been opened, so if you’re interested in more visual and audio treats, take

a visit.

Sonic RPG? Eh, an oxymoron at best and a travesty

at worst. This trailer doesn’t ask many questions. As a matter of fact, the

only thing it answers is who is from BioWare, and what they have made in the

past. Oddly enough, it’s the reason why I think it can work. 

Pay to

Play? Madden ‘09

 

For those who don’t know, Madden’s demo came out on Xbox Live Friday, August 1. Early reports from The Gamer Studio staff and others seem to say this feels like a brand new Madden. However, 7-11, your Slurpee and late night snack headquarters, is charging $5.99 for a combo meal that comes with the demo. 

 

Now, if you don’t feel like downloading the demo,

and feel like you have the need to cop that meal, it may not be a bad deal. It

also features some footage from NFL films such as The Quarterbacks, Moment of Impact, The NFL’s Greatest Follies: Volume 3, Just One Play, and even Chuck NBC. Can’t call that last one.

Played

 

NCAA Football 09 (EA Sports)

Platform: Playstation 3 | Playstation 2 |

Playstation Portable | Wii | Xbox 360 |

Release Date: July 15, 2008

 

It’s that time again. The grass is cut, cleat

sales have jumped 1000% and it is just hot enough for coaches to see which

players have the heart to stay through two-a-days. For those who never had the

opportunity, or never wanted to go through the sacrifices needed to make a

football squad, now is also the time that the latest iterations of the Gridiron

classic arrives on electronic devices. Saturday warriors can do battle on NCAA, and this title may just make that

couch seem extra comfortable.

 

NCAA 09

is nearly flawless in its execution. Games are fun, rivalries intense, dynasties are full of drama, and Campus Legend is very self involved. The best of this game can be found online, where clips are uploaded from players favorite plays, games can be played for personal glory, and Dynasty mode is used for fun and long battles of pride.

 

From its sweeping presentation, the full featured

game mode, and just the amount of fun this game presents, it’s just an experience that is not to be forgotten, especially for the football fan. Go out and get this one.

Pre-Order

 

Madden 09 (EA Sports)

Platform: Nintendo DS | Playstation 3 |

Playstation 2 | Playstation Portable | Wii | Xbox 360 | Xbox

Release Date: August 12, 2008

 

There isn’t too much that could be said about this

game that will make people turn away. Maddenites will buy it even if all

forecasts were terrible, and a national disaster was due to strike on the 12th.

The smart money would be put on (word to Jeezy) that the lines to your

local game store would still be packed and overflowing.

 

However, Madden 09 seems like it may be the first

full-fledged gaming experience for the Next-Gen.  The gameplay elements seem to be fixed, gang tackling exists, and the game is now much faster and more polished than its previous iterations. The new Madden IQ system is the first attempted at gauging skill besides merciless whippings from your friends.

 

Take a look at the trailer and peep the demo now

available from your favorite download service. You can be sure we will have a

full review and more introspection from the game as time continues.

 

Find out

more about Adam Thomas and The Gamer Studio at myspace.com/thegamerstudio and http://forum.thegamerstudio.com

Rick Ross Says Lyrics Are Authentic ; Squashes Trick/Plies Beef

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
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In the face of an extensive expose from thesmokinggun.com and condemnation from the original Freeway Ricky Ross, rapper Rick Ross continues to deny allegations that his image of a former drug kingpin is a fabrication.

 

In an exclusive interview with Don Diva magazine, Ross is adamant that his lyrics illuminating the culture of drug dealing is from personal experience and that he’s never attempted to hide details from his past.

 

“When I’m making my music and talking about blow, it’s because I did it,” Rick Ross maintains. “When I say I’m rich off cocaine it’s because I did it. I never tried to hide my past! I put my name inside of all my CDs. My company has my SS #. I could’ve put a company name.”

 

Indirectly addressing accusations that he worked as a corrections officer in 1997, Ross tells a different version of what he was doing at the age of 19.

 

“I was one of the only n***as in the city with a show truck at 19 (years old) on Dayton’s with TVs doing my own independent thing. I done put a lot of losses in this game,” Ross reasons. “I done took losses in the street, losses with the music. I’ve been up and I’ve been down; that’s what makes me who I am.”

 

Last week Freeway Ricky Ross, the incarcerated former LA drug trafficker and man who inspired the rapper’s namesake, accused the Miami MC of stealing his name to create a fake street persona.

 

Rapper Rick Ross brushes off these allegations by arguing that his status as a veteran in music and the streets keeps him above having to explain his actions to anyone else.

 

“I never ratted on a n***a, I never prosecuted a n***a, I never locked up a n***a that is first and foremost,” Ross said. “I always felt being the man that I am and the boss that I am I never owed a n***a an explanation. Every man gotta look his kids in the eye and have a reason for feeding them or not. For that sole reason I believed in the death penalty for rats and informants.”

 

During the article, Ross issued a challenge to anyone who was brave enough to test his reputation or his street credentials.

 

“I surpassed my life goals 18 months ago , but you see where I am now; sitting in a new Benz, $100,000 grand cash in my pocket and a dirty white tee,” Ross stated. “You know I’m strapped to the teeth. We got more bullets that we got dollars. That’s just how it goes and that’s how it’s going to go until the day we die…a n***a don’t like it, get at me. I’m the muthf**kin biggest boss that you seen this far.”

 

Rick Ross’ sophomore album Trilla was released in March and has currently sold over 600,000 copies.

 

He is ranked fourth on MTV’s 2008 Hottest MCs in the Game list.

 

His third album, tentatively titled Deeper Than Rap, is due out by the end of 2008 and will feature five production credits from former rival T.I.

 

The album may feature a collaboration between Trick Daddy, Plies and Rick Ross, all of whom have set their differences aside, in the name of unity.

 

“I just talked to Plies two weeks ago and we fixin’ that Trick Daddy and Plies thing. That’s small. We all street n***as that got 30 killers behind us and we all rich and we all wild. I love Trick, cause he the one that brought me in the game.”

Slim Thug Off Interscope, Preps New Project

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
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A little over a year after the release of their debut album Serve & Collect, The Boss Hogg Outlawz are set to release their sophomore effort.

 

Slim Thug will join original Boyz N Blue members PJ Tha Rap Hustla, Sir Daily, Chris Ward, and Killa Kyleon to deliver Back By Blockular Demand (Serve & Collect 2) on September 2.

 

The new album marks the addition of two new members The Boss Hogg Outlawz collective: J-Dawg and Young Black.

 

It also marks the inclusion of Slim Thug, who recently left Interscope Records to run his Boss Hogg Outlawz imprint, which is distributed by Koch Records.

 

“Koch is thrilled to welcome Slim Thug to our roster of artists,” says General Manager Alan Grunblatt. “He is truly one of the greatest rappers in the country. His group, Boss Hogg Outlawz, is set to explode.”

 

Slim Thug and the Boss Hogg Outlawz have released two new videos in support of the new album.

 

The first, a street video for the song “Ride Wit’ No Ceilings,” was recently released via the Internet and is available on YouTube.

 

The Boss Hogg Outlawz also recently shot a new video for “Keep It Playa,” which features Ray J.

Sony, LV Settle Over Rap & R&B Logo Infringement

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: News
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Sony BMG Music Entertainment and Louis Vuitton Malletier have come to a settlement agreement in an ongoing court battle over the use of the luxury fashion brand’s intellectual property.

 

In the last five years, Louis Vuitton filed similar lawsuits against Sony BMG and its labels, accusing Sony of trademark counterfeiting and infringement, unfair competition, injury to business reputation and false and deceptive business practices, for using Louis Vuitton’s Toile Monogram – the famous LV logo – and Multicolore trademarks – which includes it’s “Cherry Blossom” design.

 

The previous cases concerned the sale and offer for sale of DVDs, video clips and CDs by Sony recording artists Da Brat and Ruben Studdard, as well as a video clip on a CD by Britney Spears.

 

Both artist’s projects included the use of LV intellectual property, which lead the company to seek an injunction and damages.

 

In settling the case, Sony BMG has agreed to “cease the importation, distribution, offer for sale, shipment and/or manufacture of or otherwise trafficking” the American Idol winner’s album, or any other items using Louis Vuitton’s trademarked and copyrighted property.

 

Sony also promised to educate its various labels about Louis Vuitton intellectual property, so as to avoid such issues in the future.

SICK SUNDAYS: Clipse Re-Up, Dre Goes Deep Cover, Greta Gains, Meek Millz & More

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: Uncategorized
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Back at it again!  This edition of Sick Sundays is packed with the New and the old, and we pay homage to the Dream Team, shout out a couple pending releases. 

Lotta stuff to get to, so let’s just get it.  Special shout to the cats at Str8hiphop for the Raekwon and UGK joints.

 

My Lifes The S### – The Clipse Present Re-Up Gang

Re-Up Gang “My Life’s The S###”-Clipse Presents The Re-Up Gang

Back serving customers with that heat, the Re-up Gang returns with a sizzler. Heavy, Dre-Lite beat goes hard and the gang trades hardore street verses. The strings and the keys push the melancholy mood between verses for the perfect segueway. Rugged.

 

 

The DJ – Dj Revolution

DJ Revolution Feat. KRS-1 “The DJ”

This new millennium sequel to classic KRS-1 song, “The MC” comes courtesy of DJ Revolution.  Ad-libs come courtesy of Preemo, and KRS comes with the force that has maintained his legacy throughout the years, chastising the lazy iPod generation of DJ’s who pander and don’t lead the culture He even drops his version of the 10 DJ Commandments.  The beat is fairly similar to the original with a more orchestral update.  This spirit lives on in this boom-bap banger.

 

 

Get This Paper – Busta Rhymes Feat. Jadakiss

Busta Rhymes Feat. Jadakiss “Get This Paper”

Man, I don’t know how many bangers Busta Rhymes is going to have to put out to get some buzz and momentum, but he’s been on fire lately.  This latest joint is homage to the slept on OC/Big L tag team joint “Making Money” off OC’s album Jewelz. Both emcees flip the phrases and Busta comes with his ill flows. “Gass guzzler flow, not the hybrid.” Jada is sick, if not limited to the punch line delivery. Short and sweet.

 

 

Son 4 A Reason – Lil Dap Feat. Guru

Lil Dap Feat. Guru “Son 4 A Reason”

This joint is a throwback to those early 90s Group Home/Gangstarr joints.  No new ground covered here, but it’s good to hear Guru again after a long hiatus.  Dap is nothing special on the mic, but as fans of Living Proof can attest, that never stopped him from making solid songs. Now if we can only get Guru back with Preemo…

 

 

Hard As Hell – Akon & UGK

Akon & UGK “Hard As Hell”

Akon on the hook and a full UGK roster is certified.  Don’t be fooled by the title though.  It’s not about gat blasts, but phat ass.  Not really my speed but it’s good to hear the late great Pimp C.  Bun throws out a few shouts to Nice & Smooth in his rhymes.  I can see cats liking this.  Akon’s hook is a mix between R. Kelly foolishness and that “Too Close” joint from Next a few years ago. Decide for yourselves.

 

 

Blood Missles – Raekwon

Raekwon “Blood Missiles”

A tune up for the long awaited part deaux to the Purple Tape, the Chef drops a tender morsel to keep your mouth watered.  The slang doctor keep you guessing with off the wall language you expect from Rae, but with no Ghost or Wu riding shotgun this track is actually more beat than rhyme in terms of length.  Juuust enough to make you want more. Somebody get this album out before it becomes anti-climactic.

 

 

What it is – Nas

Nas “What It Is”

Nas is running at such a high level right now that even the throwaways from Untitled are blowing other joints out of the water.  Not really tight enough of a narrative or in form to make the album, but it’s still a solid mixtape anchor.  “The 5th member of the Beatles, 10th member of the Wutang lets his nuts hang” on this banger. Solid beat, not timeless but not a sleeper either. Can’t lose with this

 

 

Emotionless – The Clipse Present Re-Up Gang

Re-Up Gang “Emotionless”-Clipse Present The Re-Up Gang

Pusha T waxes poetic on the mishaps from their last critically acclaimed, sales anemic album, proclaiming their real fans in the streets as the real reason why they do this.  Ab Liver goes in hard establishing his status as one of the better lyricists in this game over this organ driven heater. Sandman also shines.  This song is very dark in tone and also similar is spirit musically to those late 90s/Chronic 2001 Dre tracks.  More narrative lyrically. Malice bats cleanup.

 

 

Puffin On Blunts And Drankin Tanqueray – Dr Dre ft Lady Of Rage and Dogg Pound

Dogg Pound “Puffin Blunts & Drankin Tanqueray”

This white label was really the Pound at it’s most lethal.  Non formulaic, no aim, just in the studio creating timeless joints.  This one in particular features a tipsy tirade by Dr. Dre shouting all his enemies and a total eruption by both the Lady of Rage, and Kurupt where they both totally spazz out!. Jay-z tried to cover this for his S. Dot mixtape a few years ago and paled in comparison. West Coast.

 

 

Alternative break of the week:

Firefly – Greta Gaines

Greta Gaines “Firefly”

A little bit of that feminine angst for that ass.  Soulful without getting all Motown.  I don’t really expect anybody to pump this in their jeeps unless they are headed to the Lilith Fest, or missing their Morisette fix, but if you just broke up with your boyfriend ladies maybe you can cry to this.  Solid for what it is….moving on

 

 

In My Bag (remix) – Meek Mill feat. Gillie Da Kid & Cassidy

Meek Millz Feat. Cassidy & Gillie Da Kid “In My Bag (Remix)”

South Jersey, Philly and Delaware stand up.  This banger is what led Grand Hustle to get at the young Meek, and this song is blazing the streets up. Shout to Trip for putting me on to this joint. Southern feel with crazy energy. This is the remix.

***********************************************************

Overtime

In honor of the Olympics and to give you something to bounce to before the coming of the Dream Team mixtape, here a lil something from 1992 when the original Dream Team went to the Olympics. Enjoy, catch you next week.

 

Olympic Playlist

Sunday Selection: Pretty Ricky “Knockin’ Boots ’08”

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: Alternatives
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Sunday Selection was on hiatus for a while, but I’m back and this week I’ve got a doozie! Not sure what the fellas of Pretty Ricky were thinking about when they decided to remake H-Town’s classic R&B hit “Knockin’ The Boots” and call it “Knockin’ Boots ’08,”but I am labeling their rendition a true disgrace to R&B. If anybody decides to remake a song – whether it’s an artist, group, or producer – my motto is, “If you can’t make it just as good or better than the original, leave it alone!” At one point in time, despite their obvious immaturity, I liked Pretty Ricky’s sound because they were different. They were a rap group with a lead singer, which is a different concept today. The whole idea reminded me of Jodeci or even New Edition. But it looks like their original lead singer Pleasure left the group, and they have a new lead singer named 4 Play. Not to say 4 Play isn’t talented and can’t sing, but just like the original “Pretty Ricky” and the original “Knockin’ The Boots,” it’s just not bangin’ the second time around. I was completely offended when I heard this song for the first time, and in my opinion it’s shameful and should be ranked as one of the worst remakes of all time! Their version just doesn’t have the same impact and soul that H-Town had 15 years ago. If you’re familiar with H-Town, then you know that member; Kevin “Dino” Conner was killed in a car accident in 2003. While reading a blog regarding this song, one blogger wrote “I hate Pretty Ricky, Dino is rolling in his grave on this one R.I.P.” I couldn’t agree more with that statement. What do you think?These guys have an album coming out in September, and I wonder how their fans will react to the new lead singer. Good or bad, I already know how I feel. Until next week, here’s this week’s Sunday Selection – “Knockin Boots 08.”Here is the real version – H-Town’s “Knockin’ The Boots”

Tech Talk: 230 Miles per Gallon? New Blu-ray! Big Pix!

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: Uncategorized
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Welcome to another

episode of Tech Talk! I’ve been searching to find something you don’t see

everyday. We did a piece a while back that featured the Netflix

Player by Roku, a cool little box that streams Netflix content to your TV

without turning on your PC. 

 

LG has just upped the

ante by adding that same feature to the BD300, a Blu-ray player. The

convenience of instant wireless network connectivity would be nice, but you

won’t get that on this model – it has to be plugged into your home broadband

network.

 This next gadget might

get you photo junkies kinda hot and bothered. This company named Hasselblad is flexing its megapixel

muscle. Their H3DII-50 ($40k) boasts

a 50 megapixel resolution and the largest photo sensor on earth.  

Specs: Ultimate DSLR Advantage Integrated 50 Mpix capture

units with 3” display Ultra-Focus: integral

optimization of digital lens performance Hasselblad Natural Color

Solution Integrated CCD cooling

sink for lower noise Direct ISO/WB control Thumbwheel control of

digital menus GPS accessory option Full Digital APO

Correction for improved image sharpness and detail Market’s most versatile

lens program Choice of eye-level or

waist-level viewfinders Field FW upgrade of H3D

camera Choice of media: CF card –

Image Bank II Easy sensor cleaning View camera option Un-tethered and tethered

operation Hasselblad 3FR raw – or

DNG export

Aptera motors just got a helping hand from the big homie

Google.org, the division of Google that donates to worthy causes.The $2.75

million investment may go to bringing their Typ-1 vehicle ($30k) to the masses.

The $30k price tag ain’t bad,

but the estimated 230+ MPG makes me want one no matter what it looks like.

Troy Gayle is the Founder of Gadget-T.com

Bishop Brigante: American Dreamin’

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: Features
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The Bishop ain’t just up in church.  A man of status of Scarborough’s saturated Hip-Hop scene, Bishop Brigante has cleared a spot for his name out of the brush—leading him into a pasture laden with opportunity.  You know you’ve heard of him.  If you’re looking for album names to tie him to, don’t hold your breath.  Amazingly, Bishop has acquired more status and success than many Canadian Hip-Hoppers, without even ever releasing a full length album (yet). 

 

You may know Bishop from his many mixtapes or his group projects such as S.L.U.G. (Scarborough Loves Us Gangsters).  You may have seen him on 106 & Park, raising hell as on their Freestyle Fridays segment before being disqualified for using profanity.  If you’re from Canada, you’ve probably also borne witness to  his legendary “beef” with battle rapper Jin, and no matter where you’re from, you’ve been catching his latest single “Hard Times” on heavy rotation everywhere and have definitely caught one of his award-winning singles “It’s Fo’ Twenty” with Nate Dogg. 

 

 

Bishop Brigante – its Fo Twenty Featuring Nate Dogg (produced by T.Williams) –

 

 

 

 

With all the needed hype behind him and finally some security behind him on a business front, Bishop is preparing to drop his first solo LP, all the while throwing energy into a million other projects.  AllHipHop.com caught up with the Toronto rapper to find out the real deal on the new album and more.

AllHipHop.com: First off let’s clarify the album situation. You recently completed the recording process of your upcoming release on High Stakes Music/KOCH Entertainment, The Poker Face. Where are you on the release of this project and when can your fans expect to see it?

Bishop Brigante: The Poker Face album is finished in regards to recording the records—it’s all in the mixing and mastering stages as we speak. We are releasing a triple single in the next two months entitled “Money, Money, Money” because there are three songs that are money driven recordings. But each takes a different approach at it. Then we will work the hell out of the promo side and once the time is proper in all aspects we release! I’m hoping for Christmas time at the absolute latest. 

 

AllHipHop.com: So, in terms of the label details– what went down with Bodog Music, what drove you to start your own label, High

 

Bishop: In short form, Bodog is a great company for a lot of things except music. I think they really wanted to be great at putting out a Hip-Hop record, but they didn’t want to learn the different approach you need to take with Hip-Hop. They were used to making punk rock records before they signed me, and the transition was a bit much for them. But they were completely understanding in my wanting to leave and they gave me no issues. I think they wanted the project to work—it just didn’t. After the freedom came, it was back to the grind. I approached Jay [Devonish of KOCH Entertainment] about doing a distribution deal, so we sat and chopped it up. It made sense to him because I have so much foundation and groundwork that it was a no brainer. We were both on the same page from the gate. Now we raise the stakes.

 

AllHipHop.com: Saw you and Snoop chilling in the studio so obviously the opportunity ended up trading off for more musical opportunities, for one thing!  Is he appearing on The Poker Face?

 

Bishop: That video was just us clowning around in the lab after we recorded our joint “All My Homies” which was supposed to be on the Bodog record. Once again a prime example of how big artists get in the room with a talented cat from the Dot and just click. If I could choose a good home for me to record albums, I would love to do that with Snoop. The way his whole team gets down in the studio is exactly how I love to work; the work ethic is crazy! When I’m in the lab I just want to bang out joints all day. Not a lot of people utilize the luxuries of having a studio at their disposal.

 

AllHipHop.com: Can you give some more tidbits about The Poker Face — i.e. guest artists and producers, vibes, new things you’re trying production-wise or lyrically?

 

Bishop: With The Poker Face I went a different route. I only took one beat from 13 of the best producers in the country, in my opinion, and put together this record. When you listen to the record, you’ll think that we all sat down and created it together. I have a good ear for picking beats, so I knew how to make it gel.  I have great producers to pick from as well: T Williams, Spinz, Kinsmuv, Rich Kidd, BoI 1Da, Dj Kemo with Hazel and Vangaurds (Kardinal Offishall – Dangerous) Snaz, C4 Ent, OB Productions, Dru N Maine and Stomp from Rezofficial. I hope I didn’t forget anyone!

 

As far as features, there is only a very select few that made the record. I really want the fans to get a Bishop Brigante record. I will save the feature talks for when we get closer to the release. As far as how I go in on the record? I am surrounded by great artists all the time and some of the younger cats help me stay on my A-game. I went all in, on this album!

 

AllHipHop.com: Who’s up and coming in Canada that you’re excited about, and are there any other projects that you’re involved with that you’d like to plug?

 

Bishop: I’m really excited about a couple of projects. For one I’m excited about the Drake project. His lyrics are out of this world and dude can do a 180 and drop and crazy slow jam and have the game weak. So he definitely is one to watch out for. Next I would say is JD Era, another crazy lyricist and talented song writer who is just a sick talent altogether. Also I couldn’t leave out Kinsmuv in my “excited about” mentions! Crazy lyricist, songwriter, producer and all around talent. He is like the backbone of the music behind S.L.U.G. You can Google all of these dudes [laughing]—we gets it in with this music.

 

AllHipHop.com: You appeared on 106 & Park’s “Freestyle Fridays,” as the very first Canadian to appear on the show. Some might remember you from the controversial call that got you disqualified… be truthful, did you cuss or were the judges flat out wrong?

 

Bishop: [Laughing] Be truthful huh? Ask Lil Wayne! Nah but for real, 100 % I did not swear on the show. It was edited when it aired so there was no disputing it at all. The funny thing about it was everybody in the audience and the staff were disappointed. Lil Wayne tried to dispute it for me and even told me in front of everyone, during commercial, he thought that I murdered that s**t and got robbed. I mean, it could have opened up a bigger outlet for me, had I continued on.   

 

It was a great experience. Shouts to my man Swave Sevah for riding with me on that one. My 106 and Park appearance got me exposure worldwide and I was only aired for 2 weeks—plus I got disqualified and still came home a hero! People in NY would stop me everywhere: on the train, at the Rucker in Harlem. All kinds of people to this day remember me tearing it up on 106

 

AllHipHop.com: Speaking of another Freestyle Friday veteran, Jin. You had an ongoing “situation” with him. Can you break that all down?

 

Bishop: Jin is a great freestyle battle emcee. During his rise on 106, he made a stop in the Dot for a show. Before the show he was on the radio talking about how he was there to take the title of the best in the city. During this time I was still undefeated and everyone just knew that Bishop Brigante was the guy he had to beat. When I went to the club, the promoter was adamant that Jin wasn’t gonna battle me. They wanted it to be a show where he just ripped up a couple of battlers and kept it as simple as possible.

 

So I was like whatever, I’m a take in this s**t and leave it alone. Funny thing was, the “no names” he was trying to slaughter for the show were giving him a serious run for his money. But Jin came out on top and took them out. Then the crown did it. They started chanting “Bishop, Bishop!” He said “Who the f### is Bishop?” Then it was on. We went at it. The s**t was cool. We both went for each other’s head and at the end of it, it was all cool—or so I thought.

 

The next time he was in town he was promoting his album with Ruff Ryders. The Dot was in the building; it was packed from top to bottom. So I went to the club to check out his show. Not one intention of battling at all. I walk thru the VIP and I see Jin. I walked over to the homie and said what up. We small talked and everything was cool. Then his people asked to talk to me on the side. So I didn’t expect any nonsense. But because I was alone, these three dudes start screaming on me about how they are Ruff Ryders and how they hear I talk about being better than Jin and all this mess.

I just came to check his show. He then told his people to chill and they proceeded to the stage. I was laughing because I thought it was hella corny what just happened. So the crowd is taking in his show, and he just ain’t getting the usual response from such a diverse crowd. So he stops the music. I’m on a balcony in VIP watching. He then proceeds to tell the crowd that he keeps hearing people ask him about Bishop this and Bishop that. Then he asked the crowd if they wanted to see him body Bishop right now on stage. He points the crowd to look up at me. So there I am, on the spot with a packed crowd waiting for my response. So I jumped on that stage and bodied him at his own show!

 

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AllHipHop.com: Is there anything else you want to touch on?  Any other projects, notes, events or causes you want to mention?

 

Bishop: Just want the world to open up their eyes and take a look at the North, ‘cause we have a lot to contribute to the game and all it takes is the right movement to take the initiative to make the difference. Also to remind people to cop my debut album The Poker Face as soon as it hits the stores and online sites! You can hit us up directly at hi*************@***il.com or hit me on the myspace at www.myspace.com/bishopbrigante. Peace!

 

  Jessica Linnay is an Associate Editor at HipHopCanada.com