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One Be Lo: Travelin’ Man

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: FeaturesSeptember 7, 2005

While Eminem’s annual Anger Management Tour and Jay-Z’s Fade To Black make national headlines with their three-month concert circuits, touring is a way of life for One Be Lo. The Pontiac, Michigan native has been winning fans over with his live shows ever since he was named OneManArmy, one-half of Midwestern gurus, Binary Star. He has broken up with partner Senim Silla, but a post-Binary Star Nahshid Sulaiman isn’t doing too bad for himself: his Subterraneous Records label is one of Michigan’s best, he has a label deal with Fat Beats, and his sophomore LP, S.O.N.O.G.R.A.M., has received praise from every critic with a pen [including a four star AllHipHop review!]. Still, One Be Lo continues to expound on his reputation as the deliveryman of some of the region’s best live Hip-Hop performances. AllHipHop.com analyzes Lo’s hustle.

AllHipHop.com: Let’s start off with some of the prerequisites. Why did you and Senim Silla break up, seemingly right after Binary Star got big?

One Be Lo: It’s funny, because we actually broke up before we blew up. A lot of people were confused, because by the time the Binary Star album officially dropped, we had already been broke up for a year. We didn’t see the fruits from our labor until a year after the record came out, and two years after we broke up. Like, “Oh s**t, y’all feeling our s**t?” By that time, I was like, “F**k Binary Star, I’m a solo artist now,” but people don’t want to hear that.

AllHipHop.com: What caused the break-up?

One Be Lo: We were just different, man. The best way I can explain it is that we started making music in high school. In high school, of course we hang with the same people, we do the same things, we listen to the same music. But the older we got – and I can’t speak for him – but decisions we had to make, I wasn’t feeling him on those decisions. The way he wanted to handle business, I wanted to do things different. The kind of artist I am, I’ma do what I want to do, and I’ma be me, and I want to give the people around me that same right. To make a long story short, that’s what it really boils down to. Creative differences, that’s normally what I say to people. But at the end of the day, it was like, “You do your thing the way you want to do it, and I’ma do my thing the way I want to do it.”

AllHipHop.com: Why did you change your name to One.Be.Lo?

One Be Lo: There was a Punk group named One Man Army. Selling these records, it sort of convinced me to avoid potential legal troubles with the name. I don’t follow those cats, so I don’t know what they’re doing right now. It’s kind of crazy because I would go on the road, and I’ll be sitting on the Metro in Chicago and I’ll see “One Man Army” stickers all over the place, or I’ll go to Iowa City or New York and I’ll see “One Man Army” stickers in the venue. And people would call me, “I heard you were coming to Salt Lake City,” and I’m like, “What are you talking about?” There was confusion, and I felt like if they got bigger or if I got bigger, we can?t both use the name. I feel like a b*tch because I had to change mine, but I still rep for that [name] and I still use it, then with the press and album covers I use “OneBeLo.” I definitely like “OneManArmy” a whole lot better, but I didn’t want to get bigger and change the name, then have to transfer a lot of people over to something new. I’m like, “Yo, let me start doing this now, so we can make the transition.” It’s still kind of difficult because a lot of people still don’t even know yet.

AllHipHop.com: S.O.N.O.G.R.A.M. is looking like your breakthrough album. How has it been doing?

One Be Lo: It’s kind of an introduction for a lot of people who don’t know me, and for the people who do, it’s kind of a transition. So that’s basically the purpose of this album, to set up cats for the next project. We’re just trying to utilize that, and make people more aware of what’s going on. When I get the new project, I’ll have more people left from the first album.

AllHipHop.com: How has it been received so far?

One Be Lo: Personally, I know I’m getting a lot of positive feedback from it from fans. As the Fat Beats staff, the publicist, people are excited about pitching the record. I’ve got DJs who are giving me responses. For what it is, I think that people are really feeling the record, and I think cats are excited. Most importantly, people are excited to hear more material from me. That’s a good thing, and I’m just trying to ride that.

AllHipHop.com: A lot of your album’s success can probably be attributed to your seemingly neverending tour circuit…

One Be Lo: The album came out in February, and I went on the road like a month before the record came out. Between then and now, I’ve probably been home for 30 days on and off. I was already on the road when the album dropped, then I was on the road for about 30 days. Then I got off that tour, went off for a couple days, then I did the tour with KRS-One, went off for a couple days, then I jumped on the tour with Zion I, then I went off for a couple days, then I dropped on the Warped Tour.

AllHipHop.com: How much does that hinder your social life?

One Be Lo: For the last five years, touring and shows and Hip-Hop is a way of life for me. My social life is seeing my peers and my fans, they’re on the same side as me, or I’m meeting them at the venues. That is my life. I’m not hoping it’ll be that way forever, but it is a way of life for me right now, and I’ve gotta see it that way. For the past couple years I’ve been adjusting to that, and that’s really the only thing I know right now.

AllHipHop.com: Why is touring so important to you?

One Be Lo: When you go on the road, you’re giving the people who have the music another way to reach out and grasp you as an artist and get to know you as a person. One of the best forms of promotion I’ve found is performing. With a music video, people can see what you look like, but they don’t really get to see your personality. In the interviews, people can hear some things about your personality, but not get to see you. So when you see a person live, you get to talk to them, you get to see them, you get to associate the artist with the music, and you get to see the person in so many aspects you can’t get from a record. For the people who don’t know you, they’re getting the best form of promotion, because they’re getting the artists themselves – they aren’t getting a blurb from a magazine, or an ad. That?s giving a person the chance to say, “I’m feeling the artist because I’ve seen the performance, and I’ve heard the record.” It even gives you a different perspective when you hear the record, because now you can association the music with an individual.

AllHipHop.com: It seems like you’ll hit every venue in every city.

One Be Lo: For me, it’s not just important to hit up a city. It’s important to tap that market. I can do shows for one venue, but everybody may not go to that venue. Not everybody may go to that side of town. If you really want to say, “I’ve got that city,” you’ve got to go to that city and find out where everybody’s at – not just one club, or what’s popping at one venue, but you’ve got to find out what makes that city work. I’ll hit a record store, two venues, a poetry spot, and a high school. Real people in everyday life don’t all just hang out in one spot.

Say for example, New York. You’ve got millions and millions of people in New York, so if you hit up one venue with a certain capacity, you ain’t even hitting one-one hundredth of the people that’s there. The whole idea is to get exposure, and if you don’t have a million-dollar cat paying behind you to put your face all over magazines and videos, you have to be in your face as much as you can. If you aren’t in their face, they aren’t even thinking about you.

AllHipHop.com: I’m going to randomly name some of the states on your tour this year, and you give me one thing that sticks out from each of them.

One Be Lo: Word.

AllHipHop.com: California.

One Be Lo: Everywhere I go in California I get mad love, and I think a lot of that has to do with the fact that I used to have a distribution deal through TR City in San Francisco. They distributed the Binary Star record back in 2000. I’m probably bigger in Cali than I am anywhere else.

AllHipHop.com: New York.

One Be Lo: My first impression of New York it was that it’s just essential for a lot of artists out there who think they’re special because they’re in New York or they’re from New York. But there are a lot of people in New York that show love, because everybody that goes to New York knows that most people who live in New York aren’t from New York. There are a lot of people I know that’s in New York, they show a special pride when they see you come out there because they’re from the Midwest, so they’re going to bring a lot of people out. The illest thing about New York is the public transportation system, that makes it easier for a lot of people to come out to the shows.

AllHipHop.com: What about some down south places? Texas? Atlanta?

One Be Lo: There’s a big difference between Texas and Atlanta. When you’re in the Southwest, it’s more Mexican people out there, so it’s kind of dope. Being in the Midwest, you’ve got Latinos all over the place, but when I’d go to Albuquerque and Texas, the majority of the crowd [is Mexican]. A lot of the b-boys and the neighbors are Mexican, as opposed to me walking in New Orleans or Birmingham, Alabama, it’s a different demographic.

AllHipHop.com: Out of the concerts you’ve been to, who do you think puts on the best show?

One Be Lo: C’mon man, nobody’s f**king with KRS-One. Honestly, KRS-One is the dopest MC on stage. I’ve seen a lot of KRS-One shows, but you have to see more than one, because he does different things at different shows. In the Midwest, he did all the hits, but out west they have more b-boys, so he was jumping in the circle while cats were breaking. That s**t was ridiculous. That dude is Hip-Hop. I would say the KRS-One show is the livest show I’ve ever seen in my life – all ten of ’em.

Boxer Manny Pacquiao Records Entrance Music With Apl. De. Ap. Of BEP

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: NewsSeptember 6, 2005

Boxer Manny Pacquiao

is hitting the studio to lay down vocals with Black Eyed Peas member apl.de. ap.

The song, titled “The Champion” will be used as entrance music

for Pacquiao’s upcoming bout with Hector Velazquez.

In addition to

his upcoming bout with Velazquez, Pacquiao revealed details about his highly

anticipated rematch with WBC world super featherweight champion Erik Morales,

which is slated for January 21, 2006.

According to reports,

the rematch is almost a done deal and that there will be a third fight if Pacquiao

emerges victorious and Morales wins against Zahir Raheem.

"I must admit

that I really want to get another shot at Morales,” Pacquiao said. “But

if I can’t win this fight against Velazquez, a rematch is not going to

happen."

Pacquiao and Morales

squared off in March of 2005 and delivered fans a bloody 12 round fight that

saw Morales win by a unanimous decision.

There was controversy

directly after the fight because Pacquiao was forced to wear a brand of gloves

he didn’t like and wasn’t accustomed to wearing in the ring.

Pacquiao’s

trainer Freddie Roach said Pacquiao was used to fighting with the Mexican brand

gloves Reyes, but promoter Murad Muhammad had agreed to a promotional contract

with a brand known as Winning Gloves.

Directly after

the fight, Roach cut the gloves from Pacquiao’s hand and waved them at

Muhammad.

"I would have

liked to use my gloves, but I had to go with what was in the contract,"

Pacquiao said after the fight. "I will fight him again anytime, anywhere."

Pacquiao is now

promoted by Gary Shaw.

Pacquiao

– known as "Pac-Man the Destroyer" – is expected to lay his vocals

down before his match with Velazquez, which takes place at the Staples Center

in Los Angeles on September 10.

In March of 2005, apl.de. ap announced that he was setting up

a record label or management firm in the Philippines, the country the boxer

and the Grammy Award winning rapper were both raised.

Twista Rallying Chicago Hip-Hop Community To Support Benefit Concert

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: NewsSeptember 6, 2005

Platinum selling rapper

Twista is spearheading a concert with various members of the Chicago Hip-Hop community

to raise money for victims of Hurricane Katrina.

The rapper is organizing a free concert that will take place

September 19 at the House of Blues in Chicago. Confirmed Chicago rappers include

Da Brat, Do or Die, Shawnaa, Crucial Conflict and Bump J.

Twista is calling on fans to donate money, food and clothes

that will go to the victims of the hurricane, which is the worst natural disaster

in the history of the United States.

At least 250,000 people are homeless due to the hurricane and

officials estimate the final death toll in Louisiana alone will top 10,000.

"We as a people need to stop pointing the finger of blame

and help our fellow brothers and sisters in their time of need,” Twista

said. “This is not a game, we are in a national crisis.”

In monetary terms, the cost of the damage could be at least

$100 billion dollars and $35 billion dollars to insurance companies. Other estimates

stated that the loss of productivity in the area costs $100 million dollars

a day.

Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama account for about three percent

of the United States’ gross domestic product.

More than one million people have been displaced as the result

of the hurricane.

Congress has released $10 billion dollars in emergency economic

aid and at least $350 million dollars has been donated to the Red Cross through

public donations.

Twista called on Atlantic Records staff, the artists and the

local Hip-Hop community to support the event.

"Remember

God gives us each special talents to use in his time of need. Let’s handle this,"

Twista said.

ABC, NFL Say Kanye West Can Perform At Season Opener

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: NewsSeptember 6, 2005

The NFL and ABC have

decided to keep rapper Kanye West as a performer in the season-opening sho, despite

media criticism of comments West made during a live NBC telethon to raise money

for victims of Hurricane Katrina.

West appeared on “A

Concert for Hurricane Relief” along side other celebrities. While West

was at the podium with comedian Mike Myers, he deviated from the script and

criticized the United States government’s response to African-Americans

after the hurricane, which left hundreds of thousands of people displaced.

West concluded his unscripted

comments by saying “[President] George Bush doesn’t care about Black

people.” NBC quickly cut away from West and censored West’s speech out

of the West coast rebroadcast which aired three hours later.

West will perform as scheduled

with Maroon 5 at the Los Angeles Coliseum during the league’s opening

show, which will air on rival network, ABC Thursday (September 8).

A spokesman for the league

said that West had expressed his opinion and that performers were selected for

entertainment purposes and not their political beliefs.

West’s performance

with Maroon 5 will be taped 20 minutes before the NFL opener and will be then

be mixed into the live broadcast.

The NFL is producing concerts

in Los Angeles, California, Detroit, Michigan and Foxborough, Massachusetts

and will also feature Trisha Yearwood, The Rolling Stones and Green Day.

Both ABC and the NFL have

tried to avoid controversy since Janet Jackson’s infamous breast incident

on CBS.

ABC also came under fire

because of a sexually charged “Desperate Housewives” introduction

staring The Eagles’ Terrell Owens and ABC’s “Desperate Housewives”

star Nicollette Sheridan.

The Eagles and

ABC later issued apologies for the spot. The NFL Opening Kickoff 2005 takes

place Thursday, Sept. 8 at 8 p.m ET.

Welcome to Jamrock

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: Reviews / MusicSeptember 6, 2005

Artist: Damian MarleyTitle: Welcome to JamrockRating: 4 StarsReviewed by: Danielle Cabell

The third time sounds to be a charm for roots, rap, reggae royale Damian Junior Gong Marley with his astounding new album Welcome to Jamrock (Universal/Motown). Months ago when the long nattyd Marley welcomed the world to Jamrock he got invited to the mainstream. The addictive Ini Kamoze sample-driven-title-track that set the airwaves ablaze is warmfire compared to the combustible Move! where he chants, Babylon position the queen and set the pawn, And start transform like Deceptacon, Anytime delegates have a discrepance, Well a bare tension with some long weapons. This aptly titled song injects ass and arm credibility to the talents of Bobs youngest son who shares executive production credit with his big-brother Stephen Marley.

Silence haters.

Yes, Junior samples Daddys music here and there, but theres no abundant Diddification. And while Move! uses a snippet of Bob Marleys Exodus, please believe the sample only helps make whats already good better. But its the marching Confrontation interweaving snippets of Marcus Garveys speech to heavy drum percussions that carries on in the spirit of what Damian is most known for, lyricism. On the militant-minded Road to Zion Nas brings his lyrical-sense: Human beings like ghosts and zombies, President Mugabe, holding guns to innocent bodies. Emcees of a feather stick together, but uncanny is

the use of Black Thought from The Roots on the bland “Pimpa’s Paradise.” A guest verse from the Philly MC is normally a blessing and a good look but even Black Thought couldnt save this mundane oh-too-familiar story of a girl lost track.

For everyone clamoring to know about the the Bobby Brown song, known here as Beautiful, here goes. (Ahem, clearing throat.) It is a jazzy saxophone-infused, a-aight, track that doesnt make, break or shift the album. Its an R&B song more dominated by Damians silky delivery than Bobbys hookwhich sounds like vintage Bobby (give or take a cracking voice at the end).

Many try to fuse hip hop, dancehall, R&B, reggae but rarely does it work. Welcome to Jamrock, like Halfway Tree (Damian Marleys 2002 Grammy Award winning album that no one ever heard), stands firm as a blueprint for what fusions can be if done correctly.

That One Way

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: Reviews / MusicSeptember 6, 2005

Artist: Czar*NokTitle: That One WayRating: 3 StarsReviewed by: Paine

Sometimes all it takes is a catch-phrase to get glued on the map; for B.G., “Bling, Bling,” for Black Rob, “Whoa.” Czar*Nok certainly isn’t going to ensure Cincinatti’s exposure with their hit slang single, “Hercules.” However, the debut album from Hayczar and E-Nok, That One Way (Capitol/EMI) boasts accredited producers, and street-sinewy lyrics that the Queen City hasn’t heard since Anthony Munoz pregame. While the singles need some time, Czar*Nok’s contributions lie submerged in an album full of musical charm.

Hip-Hop’s best lyricists and writers rarely publish their lyrics. Czar*Nok, as rookies, took that unfortunate liberty. Neither Hayczar or E-Nok are profound with the pen. Songs such as “Table Dance” and “G-A-M-E” make this alarmingly clear. However, the duo excels in the ability to convey tone. “Throw Me That Pack,” though lacking substance, captures miniscule details of a drug transaction under extreme circumstances. The muttered chorus adds to the setting, and serves as one of the album’s more impressive cuts. “Pimpin’ and Gangsta” also shows the boys in a permed and jeweled light with flamboyant diction and emphasized deliveries. These qualities reveal that where Czar*Nok lacks in talent, they fill with admirable effort.

The production is the album’s strongest suit. Kanye West heads the guest department. His creation, “A Time To See” resonates as distinctly Kanye, but certainly doesn’t strike as anything more than a throw-away. El Da Sensei and Masta Ace producer, Koolade does impress with “Pimp Tight.” Organ-stabs and light hand-claps make this a low-key club contender. Kwame and Hypnotized Minds fill out for an impressive bill. The in-house producers, Suicide Kingz keep up with the outsourced work. “Pimpin’ and Gangsta” samples an oft overlooked section of “Superfly” rather uniquely. Meanwhile, “She Walked My Way” incorporates a Houston sound into the mix, while using the signature hi-hats of the album.

That One Way is a well-crafted album. The choruses sound natural and memorable, and the music brings a world of energy to Czar*Nok that any group wishes for. Clearly, lyrics aren’t terribly bright, while the concepts are a mud-puddle of sex and drug-lore. Though they lack the swagger of Slim Thug, they have achieved a similar ability to let good music put new spins on worn-out concepts. Neither the group, nor the album is truly “Hercules.” But Czar*Nok and this debut pack enough punch to gain access to headphones and dancefloors where ziplocks are found.

Q-Tip: Check The Time Y’all

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: FeaturesSeptember 6, 2005

In an industry dominated by new, young talent, it’s not easy for a

rapper with a career spanning more than ten years to be taken seriously.

Sure, that rapper would be respected, but not necessarily as someone who

could drop a relevant album. Those who have tried, with the exception of

a rare few, have either seen their efforts lost between shelves and

label politics; or have sorely disappointed their eager fans, thus

solidifying their “has-been” status.

With Live at the Renaissance, set to hit stores this fall, Q-Tip

hopes to escape the curse of the comeback album and maybe teach a

history lesson or two. In addition to creating a more-than-solid

offering, bolstered with guest appearances by collaborators old and new

[think Consequence and Andre 3000 on the same track]; Q-Tip’s timing

couldn’t be better. After all, the first two generations of Hip-Hop

fans are now in their late twenties and upward, and are ready for music with a

little more substance. Since he’s admittedly feeling less experimental

than he has been since entering the post-Tribe Called Quest phase, new

audiences may be more receptive of what he has to say. And from what

record execs and journalist heard this summer during a listening session

for Q-Tip’s second solo effort, he’s certainly back to classic

form.

AllHipHop.com: Where has your musical vision taken you to now with this album?

Q-Tip: I feel like as a Hip-Hop nation, we’ve been really successful

in terms of business. A lot of dudes have been able to expand their

brands or spin ’em off into different insulary worlds: teams, clothing

lines, all this and all that. And it’s great that dudes is making

paper or whatever, running they companies and everything. But now that

we’ve gained some sort of success and made some money, now we need to

come back and focus on the music and making the music strong again, and

making it colorful and exciting again. ‘Cause I feel like it hit a wall.

And I just think that dudes need to focus on the music and make it great

again. Make music that people can play 10-15 years from now. Somebody’s

always gonna listen to Paid In Full. But you know, certain dudes make

records that, they may be hot and may be bangin’ in the clubs, but you

gonna hear it 15 years from now. I just want dudes to really take care

of the game.

AllHipHop.com: Having come from a time when most artists had a more realistic message

to their music how do you think we managed to get to where we are now?

It seems like Hip-Hop has gone so far left from where we

started. How did we lose the balance between the party side and the

responsible side?

Q-Tip: Absolute power corrupts absolutely. So when dudes get in the position

where they making all this money and they striving, getting all this

power, n***as forget about any form of consciousness. Because they so

wrapped up in the paper chase that anything that has anything to do with

anything spiritual is just a hold up. Because anything spiritual or

anything of some form of consciousness, for lack of a better word, is

going to inform you of the trials and tribulations of success, or of

monetary success rather. So that may get n***as off they hustle, and

n***as ain’t got time for that. They got time for giving n***as what

they think that they want and just supplying that. And dudes don’t

wanna f**k up they money, so they just keep hitting dudes with the same

thing. But if everybody is so hood, n***as gonna know one of the things

we used to say when we used to shoot cee-lo: scared money don’t make

no money. So you gotta take chances. I think unfortunately, the fact

that dudes is making all this money has deaded consciousness because

they get money doing that one thing.

AllHipHop.com: Even when you were with A Tribe Called Quest, you never really stuck to

the formula that everybody else was using. Yet, for someone who’s

regarded as an icon in the genre, it has to be frustrating that people

are so reluctant to accept it when you do bring something different.

Q-Tip: Yeah, I was saying to somebody earlier today, it’s not the age where you can

just come with something and be out the box different and pop off.

Today, you have to have an association with somebody.

AllHipHop.com: And you?re Q-Tip from A Tribe Called Quest?

Q-Tip: History don’t make a difference either. History don?t matter no

more. N***as is looking at me like, :Aight, yeah?” People who are

informed, say nice things and that’s cool. But the people out there,

they don’t care about history, they just care about what’s poppin’

now. And the thing about me and my music is I really feel like I try to

put something that sticks to your gut, something that can make you get

in that happier mood, and make you think about who you are as an

individual, think about certain things, think about love. You know,

think about things to charge your soul in a positive light. But at the

same time, I’m not trying to be sappy or be corny. I still have an

edge and all of that. I just try to be inventive. So I think, to answer

your question, the way that you can do it if you have something that

feel may be off the beaten path, is that you have to be strategic and

think of a way, how can I slip this thing on dudes where I don’t take

them too far left, but just enough that they can say “Oh, this is

different but I still like it.” And then you can start putting a

little bit more on.

AllHipHop.com: With Live at the Renaissance, what did you do differently than you did

with Amplified?

Q-Tip: The different thing about this that people will notice is that I used

live musicians. I mean, I still got the Hip-Hop beats bangin’ and all

of that. It’s still got a little bit of that feeling of almost Tribe

in a way. But you know, early Hip-Hop records with like, Grandmaster

Flash, Treacherous Three, Whodini, they used live musicians and still

had a Hip-Hop sound to it. So I just, in my own way, incorporated live

musicians in my music, but making it sound real Hip-Hop. People are

gonna notice that difference. And it kind of has more of a hard edge to

it. Those qualities are existing on this record.

AllHipHop.com: Lately, there’s been a lot of TV shows and specials paying homage to

Hip-Hop. And now almost every college or university has a Hip-Hop class.

But it seems like that education isn’t going back to the Hip-Hop

culture. How do you think we can manage to get that back to our youth?

Q-Tip: I think it’s incumbent upon the artists and it’s incumbent upon the

industry to institute that. In terms of artists, I be speaking to Flash

all the time and I’m trying to figure out a record to do with him so

that I don’t beat people in the head, [but] where people are like,

“Who?s Grandmaster Flash?,” and then they do the knowledge on they

own. Grandmaster Flash, Afrika Bambaataa and Kool Herc invented Hip-Hop!

If it wasn’t for the three of them, none of us would be here. Them

three right there laid the groundwork for what this s**t is. Them dudes

need to be respected and honored constantly by every Hip-Hop artist,

regardless of what side of the fence you’re on. Them three dudes right

there, and that’s far as it goes. And people need to know that. People

need to know how Hip-Hop came about in 1974 in The Bronx, New York in a

desolate, f**ked up ghetto; almost on the end of Vietnam, post-Civil

Rights movement, heroin is running rampant throughout the ghetto. We

just came out of a sexual revolution, Black folks can’t find no jobs,

there?s a lot of gangs that’s been formed. And the education system

is poor, there?s no music in schools, or whatever. We got stripped of

a lot of s**t, so how did this thing come about, from a social, and

artistic and a spiritual point? The artists need to know this! So that

when we go in the studio to make some new s**t, we have that history in

us so we can start drawing on that information and poppin? it in the

music.

AllHipHop.com: How do you personally take what you’ve gotten out of your musical

career to affect change socially? Do you feel that’s something you are

able do?

Q-Tip: Yeah. I feel spoken word is powerful. I feel like I could definitely

affect a change to that. And I hope to do that. I have a, I don?t know

how well this song is gonna go, but I have a song called “F**k Fox,”

about Fox News. But I’m not doing it from a position of “Fox News is

the devil;” I put myself in a regular cat sitting, flipping the

channels and doing the knowledge and saying, “Hold up! And then

just putting it in a real regular dude instinct, so regular folks can do

the knowledge. So little s**t like that, I think the music, again, is a

tool to kinda bring some sort of awareness about it, but not beat dudes

in the head where [they] feel like you talking above them.

AllHipHop.com: Do you still find that you get more acceptance outside of the U.S. than

you do here?

Q-Tip: Yeah, I do. The crowds out in Europe, or Africa, Australia, Japan, the

Philippines Hip-Hop is huge all over there. They know the history.

It’s crazy, you say DJ Pete Jones to them, and they like, “Yeah,

from The Bronx.” They know they s**t.

AllHipHop.com: Do you think it’s because we have too much access to it here?

Q-Tip: We don’t appreciate it.

AllHipHop.com: Has that changed over the years or has it always been this way?

Q-Tip: That we don’t appreciate? I think as Americans, that’s just how

it is.

AllHipHop.com: So how you gonna be all conscious and everything, and we see you in the

newspaper linked to Nicole Kidman and all of that?

Q-Tip: [Laughs] What do you mean, “How am I gonna be conscious?”

AllHipHop.com: To a lot of people that might seem contradictory…

Q-Tip: To dispel all of that: Nicole, I know through my acting coach. We first

met because there was talks of us doing a flick together. And then, we

just became friends. This girl she works with was a great friend of

mine, we?ve know each other for years. So it’s just like, you know

people through people. And then when dudes walk down the street and kick

it with somebody, all of a sudden you f**kin’ ’em.

AllHipHop.com: You mentioned the acting. Are you working on anything on that front?

Q-Tip: I’m developing this film for Killer Films about Miles Davis. It’s

called Funny Valentine, Nelson George wrote it. So, I’m excited.

AllHipHop.com: I heard you say in another interview that, despite the Tribe Called

Quest reunion tour, there won’t be a reunion album. Is that still the

case?

Q-Tip: Yeah. The Tribe thing, we gonna keep doing shows. But it’s just the

label situation with Jive, where we’re at with the contracts, we still

at a stalemate, we don’t know how it’s gonna progress. So, we just

tell everybody, right now: it’s not looking good.

AllHipHop.com: This is the first time New York isn’t on top of the Hip-Hop game. Do

you think that?s a plus or a minus for the industry as a whole and for

New York?

Q-Tip: I mean, it’s Hip-Hop that’s being played, so that?s a plus. But,

just me being New York and having that New York bias, I’d like to see

dudes in New York stick together more and be more creative. ‘Cause this is

the home. So it’d be nice if dudes could stop fighting. Everybody in

New York got beef with everybody. Jada got beef with 50; 50 got beef

with Fat Joe; Jay-Z got beef with Nas? N***as is stupid for that, to

me personally. I think the n***as is crazy, because everybody really

needs to be camaradering together. Because, really it’s like, what are

we fighting over? Let all of that go and people need to start focusing

on getting music poppin.’

Damian Marley: Rising Son

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: AlternativesSeptember 5, 2005

Damian Marley has been making beautiful music for awhile now, but lately that music has become a thunderous roar. With the release of his searing single, Welcome to Jamrock, Jr. Gong has rekindled the mainstream Reggae movement and stirred hearts with his vivid depictions of a ravaged Jamaica much different than the turquoise waters and posh hotels portrayed in vacation packages.

Inheriting the torch of arguably the most eminent reggae artist of all time, Bob Marley, Damians musical voyage started at a young age and continued as he joined The Shepherds, comprised of several other reggae offspring. After the groups exodus, Damian released Mr. Marley in 1996 and the Grammy-nominated Halfway Tree five years later. Here, he speaks with AllHipHop.com Alternatives about his hugely popular single and album of the same name, and gets more in-depth about political affairs in Jamaica and the U.S.

AllHipHop.com Alternatives: Everybody knows this song Welcome to Jamrock. Its been big in the clubs, radio, everywhere throughout the summer – but some people might be so addicted to the beat that they dont hear the lyrics. Its really about the poor conditions and the political environment of Jamaica, right?

Damian Marley: Yeah, its about the struggle that the people of Jamaica face as opposed to what is really advertised to the public in the international marketplace of Jamaica.

AHHA: Lets talk about a couple of the verses some people might not understand. You say: To see the sufferation sicken me/Them suit no fit me/To win election they trick we/And them don’t do nuttin at all. What does that mean?

Damian: Well, to see how people suffer is upsetting, so thats why the suits dont fit me. In other words, the agenda of what the politicians deal with doesnt fit my ideology. And to win elections, they trick us. To win elections, they promise a lot of things, and then when they win, they dont deliver.

AHHA: Another line is: Police come inna jeep and them cant stop it/Some say them a playboy, a playboy rabbit/Funnyman a get dropped like a bad habit.

Damian: A lot of times, police who have a problem in Jamaica can turn to violence. And then, theres no room for nonsense, is what the rest of [the phrase] is saying. Your lickle gimmicks and ya lickle ego, theres no room for that. If youre not the real thing then dont come around here. Those topics are relevant and affect all of us living in Jamaica now, and citizens of Jamaica and people [in America] have loved ones there.

AHHA: What about politics here in America; what are your thoughts on the war in Iraqare you for it or against it?

Damian: Im not for any war. War only bring more war. If you hit somebody then you go to war, they hit you back. And when they hit you back, what you gonna wanna do? Youre gonna wanna hit them back again. So war only bring more war. I dont think theres justification for any war. Theres no justification for people fighting on behalf of leaders. If leaders have a discrepancyyou guys went to the highest colleges and schools and all a this thingyou tellin me that they cant find an educated way to work out their problems without having us kill each other? Its a joke.

AHHA: Is your album more of the same political vibe as the single?

Damian: Well, its mixed. Its life, so you have one or two tracks that kind of have that overtone, still. But you have tracks that [are] nothing at all like it.

AHHA: How long did the album take to make?

Damian: It took about two years, with doing some tours and stuff in-between. Wed work for a few months and then go on the road and come back.

AHHA: When you go back to Jamaica, whats the first thing you do?

Damian: Roll one up. [Laughs]

AHHA: [Laughs]. So whats the second thing you do?

Damian: Light it! [Laughs] Nah, when we reach Jamaica, we stay at Bob Marley museum, so basically thats where we are. But the first thing when we reach there is to link up with all the people, our brethren and stuff.

AHHA: What kind of feeling do you get when you go back, do you sense that things have changed since you actually lived there?

Damian: Well I live there still, ya know. Its just that Ive been spending a lot of time in America recently. But, I mean, the more things change, its like the more they remain the same in a way. Things changewe have a few new highways now, cars are more available to the public than maybe ten years ago, things like thatbut at the same time, the basics and a far amount of things havent changed. You still have a few war, on top of the masses suffering.

AHHA: Do you think there are a lot of misconceptions about Jamaica?

Damian: No, I wouldnt say a lot of misconceptions. Its just half the story hasnt been told. Cause theres, very much, places in Jamaica that you can go and enjoy yourself, and its beautiful. Its not all negative, but theres a side of it thatthe thing about it, theres a side of it that the majority of citizens face in Jamaica. Its a struggle right now.

AHHA: What are some positive things about Jamaica that you shed light on with your album or you wish more people would talk about?

Damian: Its the people, really. The people of Jamaica have a great heart. Its very intenseits either love or hate, as they say. Theres no in-between. So theres a vibe to Jamaica itself, its a very roots place, a very free place in that sense.

AHHA: Its interesting to see the contrast in your video for Welcome to Jamrock, with you as basically Reggae royalty along with the rough conditions in Kingston.

Damian: Its a real contrast because, you know, those things are there also. People in Jamaicaits not like thats the first time a BMW rolled through.

AHHA: You said you named your last album Halfway Tree because your father is from the ghetto and your mother is from uptown so youre kind of like a bridge between the two. How do you think their upbringing has affected your political perspective of Jamaica?

Damian: Well, I mean, in that sense I have no reason to really be partial to any side. So I just accept what I think is the truth. Growing up, my stepfather was a politician, so I know that a politician is not somebody whos just a demon walking around. He has good parts of him too, he is a human. But, I mean, we just need to start facing the facts and stop trying to save face.

AHHA: Youve described your music as street music, which is what most of Rap is, basically. In what ways do you think Reggae is similar to Rap?

Damian: Both of them [are] like rebel music, and thats the thing. Its just from the slums in that sense, and it can be used for a lot of things. Right now, its one of the outlets that we see the inner city youth are looking to escape the situation that theyre in.

AHHA: Are you a student of Reggae?

Damian: Well, if you want to call listening to a lot of Reggae music over the years studying, then yeah.

AHHA: And who are some of your inspirations?

Damian: Lots and lots. My earliest inspirations were mostly dancehall artistspeople like Peter Metro, Shabba Ranks.

AHHA: When did you realize you yourself wanted to be a musician?

Damian: Kind of always, [then] getting more serious about it as a groove, coming into my teens. What kind of really attracted me to being a musician was watching other people perform live on stage. I can remember watching Shabba Ranks and the kids just loving it.

AHHA: Do you embrace the comparisons to Bob Marley or do you kind of wish people would see you as an individual first?

Damian: Well, being compared to the best, why not? [Laughs] Ill embrace that any day. Him special, you know what I mean.

AHHA: Did you see your father a lot growing up?

Damian: I mean, yeah, but of course he passed in the flesh when I was very young.

AHHA: Do you think you accomplished what you wanted with the release of the single Welcome to Jamrock got more people to notice more of the realistic side of Jamaica?

Damian: Yeah, [thats] whats going on, and I think its good. The lyrics are very important, and to see that people are really listening and understanding what Im saying and rapping off of, that is satisfying.

Tiara: Dream Girl

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: AlternativesSeptember 5, 2005

There are vixens and there are hustlers. Tiara, the epitome of the internet dream girl, happens to be a little of both. She has appeared in multiple videos for the likes of G-Unit, Kanye West, and The Terror Squad, and has been raking in dough from websites featuring her own images as the main attraction. She launched her own lucrative site four years ago, and has utilized her business acumen to stay competitive in the online market. No matter what she is doing, Tiara has always called her own shots.

AllHipHop.com Alternatives has the exclusive photo shoot and interview with the Richmond, California native, and shes confident that well be seeing a lot more from her!

AllHipHop.com Alternatives: What was your background before you became a web goddess?

Tiara: I was a financial analyst and a marketing analyst, so I knew about the correlation between image and money. Once I figured it out, I was like, I may as well try this on my own. Im making these people rich and not sharing in the profit that my knowledge and hard work was generating.

AHHA: There are lots of sites like yours with beautiful woman in provocative poses. How do you distinguish yourself from these sites?

Tiara: You know what? I didnt even consider other sites. The people choose whos best and theyll pay for whatever they like. I dont compare myself with others cause they aint me. I dont care about other sites

AHHA: Are you down with anyone else in the industry?

Tiara: Me and Lyric are cool. I like her, but at the end of the day, were two different people with two different audiences. I make money and I love my people, but they arent the ones paying for what I do. Im focused on my business. My marketing is targeted and I am trained in that field. I didnt just up and decide to take my clothes off and get money. After I left my job, I put together a 16-page marketing plan before I started this s###.

I draw a fine line between my site and reality. I sell fantasy. It still amazes me how people react to me. I didnt like dealing with the shadiness of the industry. Everyone started from the bottom, from Hugh Heffner to Puff. Im not a model – I dont have a portfolio. Im real. My career is focused. I dont even do magazines unless they mention my site. I consider myself a pioneer. This Internet thing will be the biggest media in the future – bigger than television.

AHHA: What is your main focus in making connections with your fans?

Tiara: Interaction – allowing them into my world. Everything they see is different from who I am. I bring them in and let them share in Tiaras world, showing my appreciation for their love. I dont believe my own hype. I live on Earth, not in the clouds.

AHHA: Do you ride with anyone in the biz?

Tiara: Yeah a couple. Love from XXL magazine. Shes a hustler. I respect her hustle, [also] Margarita and Dika. They are cool people and about their biz

AHHA: Do you have trouble separating yourself from the role you play?

Tiara: Not at all. Its real easy to differentiate. I dont walk the street in things and 8-inch heels. Thats all image.

AHHA: So being objectified doesnt bother you?

Tiara: I make my living as a sex object. It comes with the territory

AHHA: How do you feel about little girls wanting to follow your path?

Tiara: I think little girls should have something to fall back on besides their a####.

AHHA: What videos have you been in?

Tiara: Karma [Lloyd Banks], Candy Shop [50 Cent], Take Me Home [Terror Squad], and Workout Plan [Kanye West]

AHHA: Did you have any issues with rappers trying to get extra?

Tiara: Nah, it was all love. G-Unit was pretty cool. 50 [Cent] always teases me cause we have the same birthday. He told me I could be a star – I could borrow it. [laughs]

AHHA: What do you feel about magazines like Essence condemning rap videos as negative to women?

Tiara: To some degree the have points, but its entertainment and sex sells. I can see making a few changes, but I dont know about a boycott. Im a woman, and I dont want to see an all-boy video.

AHHA: If you could be anywhere doing anything right now, where would you be?

Tiara: Im not impressed with too much. I guess Jamaica. I liked it there.

AHHA: Do you watch p###?

Tiara: Once in a while

AHHA: What kind?

Tiara: Black P### sucks. White p### they get the flyest chicks they can find. Black p### you see all the stretch mark heifers. Its like having a bad weave is in the contract. You can find 20 of them on the track right now. Sh*t, if they having a problem finding beautiful women, I know plenty of them

AHHA: Youre about your business. I like that. Whats in the future for your growing empire?

Tiara: DVD production, create my own product lines. Real Estate in Florida and California. Nothing lasts forever – you gotta be able to change.

AHHA: Good Date or Good Book?

Tiara: Good Book. I dont date a lot. Guys come at me all the time but really they are not serious. Im not a persona in real life. Im a person! I dont judge what I do or think Im better than nobody because I got clothes on and [p### stars] dont.

AHHA: You like roller coasters?

Tiara: Yes, I love them.

AHHA: Your favorite?

Tiara: Kansas City. The highest dip ever! I almost had a heart attack. The thrill of it the anticipation – oh my God I love it! Im like a big kid.

AHHA: What do you think about all these girls being bisexual?

Tiara: I read a study. Most human beings are bisexual, and a small amount of them are totally heterosexual. It sounds right, but its not my thing. Im not into all that stuff, but I dont knock it.

AHHA: Any shout outs?

Tiara: Nah, just my website www.tiaraexposed.com

AHH Stray News: Chuck D Writes Katrina Song, Pharrell Goes Reggaeton, 50 Cent

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: NewsSeptember 5, 2005

Pharrell Williams and Jennifer J-Lo Lopez recently met in Puerto Rico to record a reggaeton song, a first for both artists. Last week, the Latina and the Virginia rapper, who is also half of the Neptunes production team, met to work with LunyTunes, a popular group of reggaeton producers. Lopez is reportedly working on a Spanish album with husband Marc Anthony, an accomplished singer and actor.

50 Cent, The Game, Mariah Carey and Destinys Child were top winners at the 2005 World Music Awards, which were held in Los Angeles on Wednesday. 50 Cent snagged the award for best-selling pop male artist, while rival The Game won the best-selling new male honor. Destiny’s Child won accolades for best-selling pop group, best-selling R&B group and best-selling female group of all time. Carey and her Emancipation of Mimi emerged victorious with the best-selling R&B artist, female entertainer of the year awards and best-selling pop female artist. Usher, Gwen Stefani and Eminem also won awards at the show, which was held at the Kodak Theatre in L.A.

Public Enemy front man Chuck D has written a new song addressing the natural disaster in New Orleans, Alabama, Mississippi and the issues that surround the region ravaged by Hurricane Katrina. In Hell No We Aint Alright, Chuck D sends a barbed message to government officials, the media, the military and even the Hip-Hop nation. The lyrics for the song were written on Sept. 2, the same day Kanye West rapped the treatment of African Americans suffering in the catastrophe live on the NBC television network. The rapper reportedly recorded the track over Labor Day weekend and is expected to distribute it shortly. Chuck D and Public Enemy have been long running activists in the rap community. Below are the lyrics to Hell No We Aint Alright, as written by Chuck D.

Hell No We Aint Alright

New Orleans in the morning, afternoon, and night

Hell No We Aint Alright

Now all these press conferences breaking news alerts

This just in while your government looks for a war to win

Flames from the blame game, names? Where do I begin?

Walls closing in get some help to my kin

Who cares?While the rest of the Bushnation stares

As the drama unfolds as we the people under the stairs

50% of this Son of a Bush nation

Is like hatin on Haiti

And setting up assassinations

Ask Pat Robertson- quiz him…. smells like terrorism.

Racism in the news/ still one-sided news

Saying whites find food/

prey for the national guard ready to shoot

Cause them blacks loot

New Orleans in the morning, afternoon, and night

Hell No We Aint Alright

Fires, earthquakes, tsunamis

I dont mean to scare/ Wasnt this written somewhere?

Disgraces all I see is black faces moved out to all these places

Emergency state, corpses, alligators and snakes

Big difference between this haze and them diamonds on the VMAs

We better look/ whats really important

Under this sun especially if you over 21

This aint no TV show/ this aint no video

This is really real/ beyond them same ole keep it real

Quotes from them TV stars drivin big rim cars

‘Streets be floodin, B/ no matter where you at, no gas

Driving is a luxury

Urgency

State of emergency

Shows somebodys government

Is far from reality….

New Orleans in the morning, afternoon, and night

Hell No We Aint Alright

I see here we be the new faces of refugees

Who aint even overseas but here on our knees

Forget the plasma TV-aint no electricity

New worlds upside down-and out of order

Shelter? Food? Wasssup, wheres the water?

No answers from disaster/ them masses hurtin

So who the f**k we call?–Halliburton?

Son of a Bush, how you gonna trust that cat?

To fix s**t when help is stuck in Iraq?

Making war plans takin more stands

In Afghanistan 2000 soldiers dyin in the sand

But thats over there, right?

Now what’s over here is a noise so loud

That some cant hear but on TV I can see

Bunches of people lookin just like me

Kanye Gets Support And Criticism After Pres Remarks

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: NewsSeptember 4, 2005

A conservative backlash has mounted against entertainer Kanye West after the rapper/producer recently spoke out against President Bush and the treatment of African Americas ravaged by Hurricane Katrina. On a live telecast Friday on NBC, West concluded an unprepared, unrehearsed speech by saying, George Bush doesnt care about Black people.

The statement, along with sharp words of criticism for the media and government, has raised ire in many and a groundswell of support in others. (Click here to read the previous report.)

In a disgusting display, West strayed from his prepared script to offer an overflow of hatred from his mouth, taking the spotlight off of the matter at hand, turning the relief program into his own personal soapbox, said Juicee News, a site that mixes personal commentary with daily reporting. Whether or not anyone agrees with Mr. West… it was clear that now was not the time to voice such harsh opinions.

The American Daily, another news service, said that West spoke out with an uninformed opinion on national television.

American Daily Sher Zieve said, Showing yet again that leftists have raised a generation of ignorant, malicious and increasingly incompetent-to-comment-on-virtually-anything adults, Kanye West an ostensible rapper joined the neverending-since-2000 Bush bash fest.

Despite his critics, a plethora of Black leaders are supporting West, including civil rights leader Randall Robinson, Jesse Jackson and others like Jesse Jackson, Congressman: Today I saw 5000 African Americans on the I-10 causeway, desperate, perishing, dehydrated, babies dying. It looked like Africans in the hull of a slave ship. It was so ugly and so obvious. Have we missed this catastrophe because of indifference and ineptitude, or is it a combination of the both? We have great tolerance for black suffering and black marginalisation. And today those who are suffering the most, in fact, in New Orleans certainly are black people.

Wests commentary prompted NBC censors to cut the telecast without re-airing it on the West Coast.

Los Angeles Times newspaper also supported Wests freedom of speech and condemned NBC for cutting the West Coast telecast. NBC cut the Grammy Award-winning rapper`s remark: ‘George Bush doesn`t care about Black people,’ from the West Coast tape of its Friday night telethon leaving the viewers with nothing more than ‘a sterile, self-serving corporate broadcast,’ the Times stated in an editorial.

Common, Talib Kweli On Deck For 2005 ‘Spin Off’

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: NewsSeptember 4, 2005

The Guitar Center

announced the grand finals for its 2005 Spin Off competition, one of the largest

turntablist competitions across the country.

The 2005 Spin Off Grand Finals take place Saturday, September

10 at the Wiltern LG Theatre in Los Angeles.

In addition to the eight finalists that will be competing for

the 2005 Spin Off title, organizers stated that Common and Talib Kweli will

deliver the headlining performance.

Madlib and DIPLO will also deliver special sets during the competition,

which is now in its seventh year. The grand finalists were selected from regional

competitions, which were held at Guitar Center locations across the country.

“Bringing Common and Talib to the Spin Off grand finals

provides our finalists an opportunity to experience every urban musician’s

dream – sharing the stage with truly influential hip-hop artists,”

said Jack Sonni, Vice President of Marketing Communication for Guitar Center.

“Guitar Center is dedicated to providing our DJ community a vehicle to

showcase their talent and further their careers.”

The Guitar Center is also donating 20 percent of the ticket

sales from the 2005 Spin Off Grand Finals to the Jam Master Jay Foundation.

The winner of this year’s competition will win a 2005

Scion xB, a pair of Technics DZ SL 1200 digital tables, a Boost Mobile i860

Tattoo phone and thousands of dollars in other prizing.

Tickets are priced

at $25 and are on sale at all Ticketmaster outlets and online at www.Ticketmaster.com.

Thoughts of a Predicate Felon

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: Reviews / MusicSeptember 4, 2005

Artist: Tony YayoTitle: Thoughts of a Predicate FelonRating: 3 1/2 StarsReviewed by: Houston Williams

Tony Yayo can set the tone of an album.

Aint nobody talkin when Im talking fellas so shut the f**k up, barks a prison corrections officer in Any Jail, U.S.A. In the intro to Thoughts of a Predicate Felon (G-Unit/Interscope), the G-Unit soldiers first album, Yayo courses through a persons introduction to a stretch in jail from a full cavity search to being stripped of all personal items.

From the first track, the Domingo-produced Homicide, the G-Unit enforcer paints haunting imagery of the blood splattered streets of New York. But, with the pressure of following in the sales successes of 50 Cent, Young Buck and The Game, it begs the question can Yayo maintain?

When Yayo acts as the gruff, brutal and seasoned thug that he seems to be, he crafts nothing but hood hits. This is proven on songs like Homicide, the Eminem-produced Drama Setter, G-S**t and Live by the Gun, which uses Dr. Dres dramatic backdrop. On Drama Setter, which features Eminem and Obie Trice, Yayo spits, I’ll poke you man I’m Riker’s Island Pokemon/I got C.O.’s bringin me filet mignon/ But now a n#### home looking frail in a drop/With a b#### shotgun that’s inhaling the c###/I got rocks on my neck the size of bottle tops/And got glocks in the Lex so we ride behind cops.

Other joints like Love My Style give G-Unit something that typically escapes Lloyd Banks or Young Buck, but thats a niche that makes Yayo unique in the group. Hes not afraid to scream his ad libs. Hell, hes even doing a 2005 version of the Flavor Flav dance on stage. Yayo is no overblown hypeman, but his does bring the vigor of one.

With all the jail imagery in the album art of Thoughts, one might wonder why there are so many songs about topics forbidden in jail (like women, weed and more women). Obviously, the subject matter is almost mandatory in this particular era of rap. Nevertheless, this is where the tone of Yayos debut goes flat. There are roughly three straight R&B/Hip-Hop songs that detract from Thoughts of a Predicate Felon and what is otherwise a solid effort. Songs like Pimpin are actually catchy, but lose strength when preceded by street bangers like We Dont Give a F**k. Sonically, producers like MegaHertz, DJ Khalil, Studio, Havoc of Mobb Deep and Punch give Yayo all that he could ask for in beats.

Tony Yayo isnt the best lyricist in the G-Unit, but hes got a certain charisma that goes with experience and raw street aggression. What he may lack, he more than makes up for in personality. Hes certainly most comfortable bawling obscenities at Fat Joe than he is schmoozing with talk show host Jimmy Kimmel. But, thats why he is the capo to 50s mob boss position. Thoughts of a Predicate Felon is a worthwhile debut, but Yayo will need to think of a different lane to speed in if he wants his career to take flight.

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Thanks For Asking

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: Reviews / MusicSeptember 4, 2005

Artist: APSCITitle: Thanks For AskingRating: 3 StarsReviewed by: Clover Hope

Apsci (Applied Science) might be a bit ahead of their timeabout 2000 years to be exact. On their debut album, Thanks for Asking (Quannum), the Australian singer Dana Diaz-Tutaan and her Bronx-born MC husband Raphael LaMotta (Ra) rely more on computerized and live instrumentation than the usual beat-16 bar combo. Melding rock, hip-hop, and jazz among other genres, the musical duo opts for chanting over singing, erratic lyrics, and synthesizer-heavy, trance-like beats. The outcome is a conceptual yet unorganized 16-track set.

Though Apscis pulsating rhythms often employ those warped, futuristic sounds you never use on your keyboard, their unapologetically subversive style is appreciated, and Danas soaring voice is mesmerizing. On Rob the Bank, she seductively sings, Blushing doesn’t mean I’m shy. This standout track unites the couples best assets, as Ra rhymes with flair and Dana vocalizes her sensuality to a fittingly hurried tempo. In Runaway, her soprano vocals also correspond well with the discrete piano-infused rhythm, and the two rock a robotic, staccato flow on the abbreviated Voice Print Identification.

While the opera-esque Never Give Up showcases Danas far-ranging vocals, Ra demonstrates his own lyrical versatility on Anais & Godzilla, deftly channeling Eminems swift flow at times, though his thoughtful lyrics would fair better under superior production.

In all, abstract can be good if its focused and well-arranged, but Apsci needs a little more direction and cohesiveness. Some may consider their music just noise and words. But similar to abstract art, Apsci is actually comprehensible to those crazy enough to understand their creative direction and spacious exploration. So maybe it is just art.

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Kanye West Rips President Bush On Live Television

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: NewsSeptember 3, 2005

Kanye West criticized

United States President George W. Bush and the government’s reaction to

Hurricane Katrina last night during “A Concert for Hurricane Relief”

a live benefit concert that aired on NBC.

West had sharp words for

President Bush and the government’s reaction to the disaster wrought in

four states by Hurricane Katrina during the one-hour live special.

The show was aired live

on NBC, MSNBC, CNBC and Pax and featured performances from Harry Connick Jr.,

Wynton Marsalis, Faith Hill, Aaron Neville and others.

West, who didn’t perform,

was on the stage with comedian Mike Myers reading a script from the teleprompter

when he deviated from the pre-written script.

“I hate the way they

portray us in the media,” West said echoing comments that big media outlets

are biased in how they present images of the hurricane victims.

“You see a black family,

it says, ‘They’re looting.’ You see a white family, it says, ‘They’re

looking for food.’

“It’s been five days

[waiting for federal help] because most of the people are black,” West

said. “And even for me to complain about it, I would be a hypocrite because

I’ve tried to turn away from the TV because it’s too hard to watch.

“I’ve even been shopping

before even giving a donation, so now I’m calling my business manager right

now to see what is the biggest amount I can give…the way America is set

up to help the poor, the black people, the less well-off, as slow as possible.

I mean, the Red Cross is doing everything they can. We already realize a lot

of people that could help are at war right now, fighting another way — and

they’ve given them permission to go down and shoot us!”

There was a tape delay,

but the person in charge of censoring was only looking for profane words and

didn’t know that West was not following his script.

West’s comments were

edited out of the West Coast airing of the show, which was broadcast three hours

later.

Before the show was over,

the host, NBC News’ Matt Lauer, stated that emotions in the country are

high because of the destruction the hurricane has left, the handling of the

disaster and the strain of the war in Iraq.

“Sometimes

that emotion is translated into inspiration, sometimes into criticism,”

Lauer said referring to West’s’ comments. “We’ve heard some

of that tonight. But it’s still part of the American way of life."

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Nick Cannon Taking ‘Wild N’ Out’ On The Road

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: NewsSeptember 2, 2005

Actor turned rapper

Nick Cannon is taking his successful new MTV comedy show on the road.

"Wild N’ Out," is a comedy freestyle show created by and featuring Nick

Cannon and various other comedians. The show crosses improv/impromptu comedy with

Hip-Hop.

The show has been so successful that MTV has already tapped

Cannon for a second season and Cannon is taking the concept on the road.

"Wild N’ Out", which is filmed in Los Angeles, Ca,

has featured artists such as Kanye West, Common, the Ying Yang Twins and T.I.

“We’re definitely doing a "Wildin’ Out" tour,"

Cannon told AllHipHop.com. "We are going to take the show on the road with

all the cats from the show."

For fans wanting to know if the tour will also feature A-list acts, Cannon promises

the formula will not change.

We [are definitely] gonna do it real big," Cannon said.

"We already have a couple Hip-Hop acts that’s gonna jump on with us, so

you definitely wanna look out for that when we come to your city."

Cannon also is also the executive producer of the successful reality dating

series “Date My Mom,” which MTV also picked for another season.

Cannon is also preparing to release his sophomore album Can I Live

and is will tour to support the release.

"I’m definitely going out to promote my album." Nick

Cannon told AllHipHop.com, " I’m all over the place right now so be checkin’

for me."

"Wild N’ Out"

is in MTV’s 10 spot every Thursday.

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The Media, Katrina & African Americans

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: UncategorizedSeptember 2, 2005

As journalists, the number one dictum is to be unbiased, objective and accurate. It is with a heavy heart that I watch TV as the nation is in turmoil as a result of the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. What is becoming increasingly frustrating and infuriating is the biased coverage that news organizations, including the Associated Presss (AP) are presenting to the world. It is irresponsible and incorrigible to characterize the behavior of people desperately trying to survive in unimaginable circumstances to be labeled as "looters." If you have a photograph or footage of people with TV’s on their backs crossing through neck high water, then it is fair to call them looters. But to say that people with bags of food, water or clothes are looters is ridiculous. It seems to me that nuances and word choices are being used to characterize an entire race. Additionally it seems that once again, black people who are the majority of the Americans suffering in New Orleans are automatically being characterized as criminals and thugs. Yes, there are a small percentage of people who are misbehaving. But the majority of people down there stuck with no resources are law-abiding, family-oriented, hard-working Americans in a dire situation–with no help in sight.

Instead of focusing on looting, why not have use some courage and journalistic integrity and focus on your journalistic duty–which is investigating and reporting the real story–the American government has failed it’s citizens. Why? Is it because the majority of the people are of low-income and of color? Is there a feeling somewhere deep in the subconcious of the powers that be, that because of this, their lives are worth less? Why after four days hasn’t more transportation from all over the country been sent to evacuate these citizens? To feed them? To save them? Why are people only being sent to Houston when there are 49 other states and millions of people willing to physically help? Why won’t they let private citizens in to help if they’re not going to?

By tomorrow–I fear that thousands of people will be dead of hunger and dehydration. Then America will truly have a riot on their hands. Why not use your power as media to initiate change instead of denigrating a people that are already down? (Think Woodward & Bernstein) You can help change things before it’s too late.

I’m tired of this–and so are the American people. We deserve answers, we deserve journalists that fairly cover our community instead of constantly labeling them. In the 1970s, my mother was at the AP as a reporter and was discriminated against and vilified because she was black. She sued the AP and won–opening the door for intern and editorial programs specifically for minorities and women! As a trained journalist I too have experienced bias in the newsroom–the double standard that black journalists can’t cover objectively because we are biased, or simply that we’re not cut out to be journalists. And most of you guys think you’re liberals–but the reality is that even in 2005 the same bias continue to frame your work. It is simply disgusting. Don’t pretend to be an objective and unbiased news providing organization if you can’t really achieve that.

MSNBC seems to be the only news organization that is covering this from an honest point of view–from a human point of view. This is not about race, except for the human race, and it is heartbreaking, disappointing and utterly disheartening to think that this is how America treats its own citizens. It is not about why people didn’t leave–at this point it’s about how do we get them out. That should be the number one priority of the government and THEN they can focus on the pipelines and the flooding.

So now I say, if there was anytime to be SUBJECTIVE and emotional as reporters–the time is now. You should be angry as U.S. citizens that our country and our leaders–who have put so much money into the military and into protecting America and the world is behaving like the Keystone cops, unable to properly organize the rescue of thousands of people in their own country. This is the essence of what Homeland security should be–and yet you tip toe around the issues when this comes up. If you don’t do your jobs, the American people are going to. We are going to march and protest until somebody saves those people. Even if we have to march in front of the White House or down to New Orleans ourselves.

I implore you to skip the melodrama and the hype, to put aside whatever prejudices you may have–to even acknowledge that you may be slanting stories because of bias you may not even be aware you have– and report the real story. Take these officials to task, don’t let them off the hook in the interviews until you have real answers about a plan of action—make them accountable, and use your power to help evoke immediate change.

This could happen to any of us, put yourselves in the survivor’s shoes–you wouldn’t want to be in them, and they shouldn’t be in that situation now.

Signed sincerely,

Morenike Efuntade

An Activist and concerned & p##### off U.S. citizen

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Katrina: Hip-Hop Reacts and Responds

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: FeaturesSeptember 2, 2005

“There were like bodies floating past my front door,” one New Orleans resident said weeping. “We did the best we could.”

The masses remain shocked, stunned and saddened by the annihilation left by Hurricane Katrina on Louisiana, Mississippi and parts of Alabama. The Hip-Hop community was built on a foundation of struggle and anguish, but the destruction

The lull is over.

Various notables are leveraging their star power to raise money or help in the relief effort. Sean “Diddy” Combs, Jay-Z, David Banner, Master P, James Prince of Rap-A-Lot Records and others are spearheading a variety of projects aimed at aiding those displaced by the hurricane.

Moguls Diddy and Jay-Z are contributing to the effort by donating $1 million to the American Red Cross. Furthermore, both men run apparel companies and will contribute clothing from their Sean John and Rocawear collections for those in dire need.

Diddy told AllHipHop.com, “This needs to happen. We want to do more in the future, because this is going to be a long process (of rebuilding). This is something that we are doing for our people. Those are our bothers and sisters – our family. It hurts.”

“We, as African American men and leaders of our community felt it was a necessity to join forces and help,” Jay-Z agreed via a statement. “Diddy and I are committed to supporting our people in whichever way we can." Combs and Jay-Z expect to present their $1 million dollar check during a September 9 telethon that cable network BET is organizing in conjunction with the American Red Cross.

Many had to evacuate their homes, leaving everything but the bare necessities behind. New Orleans started evacuating people from the city on August 28 in preparation for Hurricane Katrina, which struck the city the next day on August 29. The storm imposed its mighty will on those that didn’t flee the city. The total damage assessment to New Orleans and the surrounding areas could top $25 billion. Rappers and entertainers are already lining up to assist fund raising and contributing to the relief effort.

Although some entertainers are eager to help, some within the African American community believe there is a general lack of backing, concern and support from the federal government.

"If we [as the United States] could put a million people, a million solders in Afghanistan and Iraq, we can definitely put the same effort towards New Orleans, and Mississippi," Juvenile said at a press conference hosted by BET and The American Red Cross, "They have the ability to fly down and save people. All I’m asking is please take some time out and put forth the same effort – if not more – towards [helping] our country, because [we are in] the United States and we are trying to make it."

Bad Boy artist Young City (aka Chopper) echoed the sentiments of his New Orleans brethren.

"I just think that it’s real crazy that our government ain’t kicking in to send something to New Orleans." Young City told Allhiphop.com, "He’s [President Bush] talking about how we need to help people in Iraq but he isn’t even concerned with people in our own country."

With a prevailing dissatisfaction, the masses within New Orleans have started to march in protest, all the while being wrought with intolerable health conditions, chaos, looting and even reported acts of rape. BET’s live telethon has already secured talent like David Banner, Jay-Z, Juvenile, Diddy, Common, Stevie Wonder and others like Omarion. The event is in conjunction with the National Urban League, American Red Cross, Warner Music Group and Essence magazine to produce and raise money for victims of Hurricane Katrina. Others like Banner are organizing independent concerts to raise money for local aid.

James Prince, CEO of Rap-A-Lot Records, has opened a shelter in Houston, Texas to house those in need of a place to stay and Master P. and his wife Sonya Miller announced the formation of Rescue One, an organization dedicated to helping residents cope with the aftermath of the hurricane.

Master P, reared in New Orleans’ Calliope projects, explained, “We are contributing our own money toward items such as food, clothes and shoes and we are also reaching out to corporations for donations. Sonya is reaching out to companies for product donations for mothers, like Pampers and Gerber baby food, as well as soliciting donations of items helpful to ladies and girls.”

Juvenile, who helped popularize New Orleans with his Cash Money Records brethren, was visibly shaken when speaking of the Hurricane and its devastating effect on the city and surrounding areas.

“I am obviously devastated by my personal loss but thank God that I was able to get my family out to safety while many families were not so fortunate,” Juvenile said. “In the aftermath thousands of people in New Orleans and Mississippi are struggling to survive without food, shelter, running water or a way to contact loved ones.”

Master P. told the Associated Press that his uncle, father-in-law and sister-in-law were still missing. New Orleans natives Baby, Juvenile, Lil’ Wayne, Young City and countless others have lost their homes, businesses, studios and other personal assets due to the horrific storm. The United States announced today (September 2) that they would seek a total of $10 billion dollars in funding to rebuild the flooded city.

Comedian Chris Rock expressed skepticism at the current relief effort that has and contrasted it with the war abroad.

“We are rebuilding Iraq right now and I don’t know if four guys with box cutters will fly a plane into a building again, probably not,” Rock said. “But I do know if we don’t take care of these millions of people America will be destroyed, because this will bring the whole country down."

Thousands of domestic refugees from Louisiana are currently being transported from the Superdome in New Orleans to the Astrodome in Houston, Texas. According to President Bush, The Coast Guard has rescued almost 2,000 people of the thousands in need. President Bush stressed patience, noting that the storm had battered four states and said the cleanup “will take years.”

"We’re dealing with one of the worst national disasters in our nation’s history," Bush said. "This is going to be a difficult road."

Many entertainers are still reeling from the effects of the Katrina and are still searching for family members. Fats Domino, the pioneering R&B singer was recently found alive and well after missing reports surfaced. Others haven’t been so lucky.

"I got fifty cousins down there now," Snoop’s younger brother Bing Worthington told Allhiphop.com. “My family is from Macomb, Mississippi and my grandmother is in Jackson, Mississippi. This is touching home because Macomb has been hit. No power, no water, no nothing. It’s not as bad as Louisiana, but they been hit. Everybody’s feeling the wrath."

Images of officials in the Bush Administration vacationing and accusations that Bush undercut flood control funding for the city angered some. The president cut funding that would have improved the levee holding back the waters of Lake Pontchartrain, according to a report in the Washington Post. Katrina smashed through the embankment flooding New Orleans in a manner never seen before.

Furthermore, Democrats have accused Bush of a slow response to the hurricane, which initially punched through the city on Monday August 30. According to reports, Bush didn’t return to Washington from his Texas ranch until Wednesday afternoon.

"I seen [George W. Bush] walk out [on television] with a dog. He was on vacation!" Bing continued. "When things go wrong, no one’s around.”

Aside from the issues with the president, Sean “Diddy” Combs took issue with the broad media portrayal of African Americans. The Bad Boy mogul told AllHipHop.com, “If [I] ain’t got nothing to eat…I’m gonna loot. If I was out there, I’m gonna loot believe that. If I got my kids, I’m going to get some water, something to eat, some sheets…those are necessities,” Diddy said. “I ain’t seen nobody carrying TV’s.”

Even before the tragedy called Katrina, New Orleans had societal problems that received little press. The city like other cities considered to be the “Deep South,” has the lowest reported high school graduate rates, the highest number of teen pregnancy and a dismal employment ratio.

“These places were horrible before any of this happened, have you been to New Orleans outside of Bourbon Street?” Chris Rock asked rhetorically. “All I have to say is that everyone needs to send as much money as they can humanly can to the United States Red Cross.”

Master P said he and Baby of Cash Money never spoke prior to the crisis in their hometown. The New No Limit mogul said adversity brings out an opportunity for the Hip-Hop community and the general population to unite.

"We have all been in so much competition and this is the only thing that brought us together. It ain’t about how many records you sell, how many movies you make, how many cars, you have,” he said. “All of that is irrelevant when you are talking about how many lives we can save now. It’s about how many times we can come together and do our part."

For more information on how to donate or to get involved log onto www.redcross.com or click here for a listing of other charities in AllHipHop.com’s Ill Community.

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Pioneering Hip-Hop DJ Eric B. Alive & Well

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: NewsSeptember 1, 2005

Pioneering DJ Eric B. is alive and well and there is no truth to reports circulating that he had been shot and killed.

A phony report surfaced on the internet stating that Eric B., born Eric Barrier, was shot and killed in a barbershop in Camden, New Jersey.

Shortly after the report was circulated, nationally syndicated radio host Wendy Williams mentioned the report and soon dismissed it at as not being credible, but the rumor and phony report spread rapidly.

“The only way I am going to go is by having a heart attack while I am out with my grand kids,” Eric B. told AllHipHop.com. “I want to thank everyone for their concern. You never really know how you have impacted people until some sort of crisis.”

Eric B. was a part of the seminal group, Eric B. & Rakim. The DJ stated he was spending a good amount of time debunking the rumor to family and friends.

“My daughter and I are making a list of people to call back, there’s been that many people that have called,” Eric B. said. “I am alive and well. The only person I am dead to is Jay-Z, he never returns my phone calls.”

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Namco Wins Rights To ‘Afro Samuri’

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: NewsSeptember 1, 2005

Global video games

publisher Namco Hometek Inc. has announced that leading Japanese animation studio

GDH K.K. has granted them exclusive rights to "Afro Samurai," a graphic

manga created by Takashi Okazaki.

The game will revolve around lead character Afro, who witnesses

his father’s murder and hence devotes himself to avenging his death.

"Afro Samurai is a visually striking and rich story,"

said Jeff Lujan, Business Director at Namco Hometek Inc. "With its gritty

and unique mix of Hip-Hop and samurai styling, ‘Afro Samurai’ is perfectly suited

for video games."

Currently, "Afro" is in pre-production with GDH group

company Gonzo and the Fuji Television Network as an animated mini-series which

Academy Award Nominee Samuel L. Jackson will serve as both co-producer and lead

voice actor.

"Afro" also has plans of being adapted into a live-action

film with Jackson starring and co-producing.

With Namco’s history of producing quality games, look for "Afro"

to make a splash when it hits stores.

"Namco is

uniquely qualified to publish games based on ‘Afro Samurai,’" said Eric

Calderon, Vice President of Creative Affairs at GDH. "Gonzo is just ecstatic

to work with a company that is so passionate about the vision of the franchise

and who has produced so many outstanding, award-winning games. I can’t wait

to play it!"

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