MP3: 20 y/o R&B Singer Gemaine Releases “Freaky” Single on iTunes
With Over 2.7 Million Soundcloud Listens and Thousands of Re-Vines, His Hit Single Finally Gets a Retail Release
10.20.2015
Critical Praise for Gemaine:
“We have a feeling this is only the beginning of a long-term career of stardom for Mr. Edwards.” – WatchLOUD
“At 19-years-old he shows not only a remarkable talent, but an exceptional passion and drive with a set of unlimited skills.”- GoodFellaMedia
The Song:
After amassing almost 3 million Soundcloud listens and dozens of Re-Vines, 20 year-old R&B newcomer Gemaine released his viral hit “Freaky” on iTunes. What originally began as a 6-second freestyle he recorded at a local Guitar Center has turned him into a rising star in the world of R&B.
Although the 20 year-old from Compton, California has emerged as a newcomer to the music industry, music has been a big part of his life since he could remember. At the behest of his parents who wanted him and his seven siblings to avoid the trappings of the street life outside their door, Gemaine spent most of his free time singing and making music at his church, known for its high caliber of musical performances. A trained pianist, Gemaine is looking to do more with his talents than just sing. His goal is to create music that, “makes people feel good and becomes an escape from their problems.” He is currently working on releasing his debut EP, entitled Curious.
Please contact Michelle if interested in talking with Gemaine.
Gemaine Background:
Gemaine is a 20-year-old singer/songwriter/actor from Compton, LA whose music is infused with the iridescent sounds of soul, jazz and pop that blends together in a smooth sensual way. Influenced by the musical sounds of R. Kelly and Michael Jackson, this young star wears his desires and passions on his sleeve.
After releasing a snippet of what would later be his viral single, “Freaky” on Vine, Gemaine managed to turn six seconds into over 2 million plays and 200,000 followers on his social networks.
Gemaine is currently working on his debut EP (untitled) while making sporadic appearances in television shows including Black-ish and Criminal Minds.
Brooklyn-based producer ATR777 (aka Andrew Thomas Reid) has worked with everyone from Theophilus London to Freddie Gibbs to denitia and sene to Blu, to Coco O from Quadron but this time, he’s turning attention to himself. As part of BKLYN1834‘s upcoming compilation album release, ATR777 is releasing the song and video for the tripped-out song “Down To be Your Man.” Based on an attempt to maintain a failing relationship, ATR777’s vocal sample for the phrase “Down to be your man” became the loop on which the entire song is based. The video, which he filmed on a trip to Shanghai, reflects the aesthetics heard in the song with its spacious, down-tempo grooves, and ghostly textures of chopped and screwed vocals.
As the founder of BKLYN1834, a group of seven artists who live together in a Victorian mansion in Ditmas Park, Brooklyn, it was ATR777’s idea to start a house where creatives could live together and work with each other. Despite a successful launch of the clubhouse living arrangement, Andrew’s world soon turned upside down. Following weeks of fighting, his housemates asked his then live-in girlfriend to move out. Faced with losing his girlfriend, ATR777 pleaded with her, “I’m down to be your man, just tell me what you want,” forming the foundation of the song.
As the originator of the BKLYN1834 artist community, ATR is used to working with dozens of different styles and genres. Beginning his production arc working with mostly rappers, his love for hip-hop eventually morphed into more melancholy, spacious thumps with ethereal layers of synth, giving way to his own vocal style. The influence of his Texas roots shines through with slow tempos and chopped and screwed vocal samples.
Redefining how artists create, distribute, and market their work, BKLYN1834 exists for brands to easily tap them for collaborations. Some of those brands include Pepsi, Converse, Apple, and Blackstone Realty. The collective has housed over 50 artists and gave birth to media darlings denetia and sene, who met as roommates. and previous and current residents have worked with Prince, Taylor Swift, Toby Keith, Snarky Puppy, Theophilus London, Freddie Gibbs, Pharaohe Monch, among others.
BKLYN1834’s debut compilation, Comp_01, is set to release on November 13th and will include seven songs, with each having their own accompanying video. Comp_01 will span from indie rock to indie pop to electronic songs and contain songs from NΔTIONS’,Saint Ballantine, Sanctuary Sound, ATR777, Bobby Only, and Foe Destroyer.
BKLYN1834 Comp_01 Tracklisting:
“One Clear Thought” – Sanctuary Sound “Enough” – St. Ballentine (Sene and ATR)
“Planned Out World” – NΔTIONS “Down To Be Your Man” – ATR777
“Dropping Hints” – Bobby Only
“My Ways” – NΔTIONS
“Unconditional Love” -Foe Destroyer
Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with BKLYN1834 artists.
BKLYN1834 Background:
BKLYN1834 is a talent incubator for young artists who live together in a co-op style Victorian Home in Ditmas Park, Brooklyn and create music, art, videos, comedy, and other creative content. Modeled after the salon-like atmosphere of Hitsville U.S.A. and Gertrude Stein’s home, founding resident and creative director of BKLYN134, Andrew Thomas Reid, traveled to Nicaragua and Spain to convince friends to move into the house in the summer of 2009.
BKLYN1834 supports young artists by providing them with a place to live, write, record and produce content in a creative and collaborative environment. Previous and current BKLYN1834 residents have worked with Prince, Taylor Swift, Toby Keith, Snarky Puppy, Theophilus London, Freddie Gibbs, Pharaohe Monch, Denitia and Sene, among others. Fittingly nicknamed “The Clubhouse,” the community has housed over 50 residents since its inception.
BKLYN1834’s long-term goal is to create a network of similar clubhouses across the country and around the world. By continuing to produce digital content in-house, we want to create a global community where artists, fans, and brands can all engage.
With more and more brands recognizing the value of authentic grassroots ideas that appeal to 18-34 yr olds, BKLYN1834 has already been tapped for collaborations by Pepsi, Converse, Apple, and Blackstone Realty. Forbes called BKLYN1834 “a tool every marketer should have in its back pocket.”
Video: J.R. Donato – Prosperity, No Hesitation (Vlog)
A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Making of the 21-Year-OId Taylor Gang Rapper’s Fast Money & Freedom EP
10.19.2015
Critical Praise:
“…he uses his voice and flow in unique ways that only someone who’s been writing for close to a decade could pull off” – HotNewHipHop
“The future is looking type bright for J.R.” – Fake Shore Drive
“At 21-years old, the Chi town native J.R. Donato has already accomplished a lot” – GoodMusicAllDay
“Make it count and get in tune with Young Donato” – onSMASH
The Video:
North Chicago rapper J.R. Donato shows us a glimpse of what life’s like as one of Taylor Gang’s youngest artists. Taking us through his neighborhood and showing us his favorite spots in the city, J.R. Donato and his homies have plenty of love for their hometown while also teaming up with fellow Taylor Gang rapper Berner in the studio and hitting the stage on tour. J.R. Donato is coming off the release of his Fast Money & Freedom EP, which is available for free download via DatPiff and streaming on Spotify. “What I really want to do with this Fast Money & Freedom project is to make a better connection with my fans,” J.R. Donato says in the vlog. “Every time a person becomes a fan it’s usually because some type of connection because they can feel what you’re saying. And that’s what I want – I want people to feel what I’m saying.”
“[J.R. Donato] uses his voice and flow in unique ways that only someone who’s been writing for close to a decade could pull off,” said HotNewHipHop, acknowledging J.R. Donato’s history. In high school, J.R. Donato toured regionally with local legend Twista, before later teaming up with Wiz Khalifa on the second Under the Influence tour. In the lead up to Fast Money & Freedom, “I Suppose” found J.R. Donato couch-surfing through the Chi, while he partied with some friends in the carefree video for “Life So Sweet,” which debuted via HipHopDX. Additionally, audio singles “Make It Count” and the GoodMusicAllDay-premiered “Mad At Me” showcased Donato embracing the opportunities that he’s encountered in his nearly ten year rap career while paying no mind to the people that’ve hated along the way. Produced in-full by Sledgren, Fast Money & Freedom has a consistently hazy, laid back vibe that matches Donato’s breezy, charismatic presence on the mic.
Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in speaking with J.R. Donato.
JR Donato Background:
J.R. Donato’s music can be summed up into three words; conceptual, vivid and thorough. His image, outlook on life and positivity that he brings to the hiphop community is a breathe of fresh air. His passion manifested itself early in the form of songwriting. “I always wrote about things I had been through or seen,” J.R. says. “I still do. Every song is another piece of my life and story.” Before J.R. reached his teenage years, he was already penning lyrics for himself and others. By the time he was 13, Young J.R. had a regional hit single “500 Degrees,” with a live performance presence that was unheard of for a kid who just left his teens. That led to other tracks like “Money On My Mind” and “We Be Rydin,” creating a sizeable buzz for young entertainer. He was popping up on mixtapes and performing at clubs he was too young to even attend.
Lyric Video: Marc E. Bassy – “That’s Love” ft. Ty Dolla $ign
His East Hollywood EP Will Be Available at All Digital Retailers October 30th
10.15.2015
Critical Praise for Marc E. Bassy:
“His story is one about the amazing results that come from artistic exploration without expectation.” – KQED
“It’s time we all get better acquainted with the one they call Marc E. Bassy.” – Okayplayer
“Marc E. Bassy is a fresh voice and one of LA’s own. He fits comfortably in the space between Frank Ocean and Mac Miller.” – LA Music Blog
“His bouncy flow channels the manic energy of Chance The Rapper; the animated style and tempered synths of “Cigarettes” could comfortably fit as a b-side to Acid Rap” – SPIN
“If you’re looking for a soulful vibe to act as the soundtrack for your summer kickbacks, get familiar with Marc E. Bassy.” – XXL
The Video:
California singer/songwriter Marc E. Bassy is releasing a soulful visual for “That’s Love,” giving a glimpse into his life on tour. The track, which features Ty Dolla $ign, is from Marc E. Bassy’s East Hollywood EP, which will be re-released at all digital retailers on October 30th. “The song isn’t just about a romantic relationship even though it’s inspired by one,” the Republic Records-signee explained to Galore Mag in their premiere post. “It’s about love of all kinds, love for your friends, for your family, for your roommates, it’s all love. To me it’s an anthem and a motto: that’s love.”
Last week, Marc E. Bassy released his self-directed video for the standout track “Some Things Never Change,” which The FADER called “a sludgy R&B-soul hybrid and an anthem for dream chasers” in their premiere post. As a songwriter, Marc E. Bassy has penned cuts for popstress PIA MIA, 2 Chainz, Chris Brown, Usher, Akon, Sean Kingston, Prince Royce, Allen Stone, HBK Gang, and more. Described as “smooth” by The FADER and a “fresh voice” by LA Music Blog, his unique blend of boozy, bass-heavy, sexy storytelling on the East Hollywood EP takes listeners through a recent period in which he went through a series of major transitions. “This is my best work to date. I love getting my heart broken,” Marc E. Bassy explains. “It’s the best – it makes you pick yourself off the floor and do better.”
East Hollywood EP Tracklisting:
1. Some Things Never Change
2. Faded ft. Pia Mia & Wynter Gordon
3. Free Love ft. HBK P-LO
4. Drunk and I’m Drunk ft. Bobby Brackins
Bonus Tracks (different depending on which digital retailer is accessed)
1. XX
2. On Top
3. Good Money
Please contact Michelle if interested in talking with Marc E. Bassy.
Marc E. Bassy Background:
San Francisco-born singer songwriter Marc E. Bassy is an artist who refuses to be pigeonholed. Inspired by the Bay Area rap he grew up with as well as traditional Soul/RnB music, Marc has always found himself balancing between the two. Not only has Marc written songs for 2 Chainz, Sean Kingston, Allen Stone, Rince Royce,Chris Brown and Wiz Khalifa but he has also found success with his former Rap/Rock group 2AM Club, whose 2010 debut album What Did You Think Was Going To Happen? reached #3 on the Billboard Heatseekers charts. His debut solo EP Only The Poets, was released the summer of 2014, marking the beginning of the next phase in his career. Shortly after he released his sophomore EP, The East Hollywood EP, Marc signed with Universal Republic and will re-release the EP commercially on October 30th, 2015.
Tonight: Taylor Gang Hosts Free Pop-Up Show in Atlanta
Doors Open 9:30PM – 595 North Ave. NW, Atlanta
10.14.2015
The Pop-Up:
Taylor Gang are concluding an Atlanta takeover with a free pop-up show, which follows their attendance at the BET Awards and a series of performances at the A3C Festival. The show is free with a BeerandTacos ticket and doors open at 9:30PM. Following the pop-up, Chevy Woods will be joining Wiz Khalifa and A$AP Rocky in Europe for a 16-day tour.
Chevy Woods dropped his latest single “Jeter” last week, a loose track following The 48 Hunnid Project, his first commercial release after 12 years of dropping mixtapes. Chevy got people hyped for the EP with visuals for tracks like “All Said and Done” featuring Dej Loaf, which premiered viai-D. Throughout the EP, Woods is joined by a talent-packed cast includingWiz Khalifa, OG Maco, Rico Love, and Post Malone.
Taylor Gang Pop-Up Show, Presented by BeerandTacos
Tix/Info: http://www.tgbnt.eventbrite.com
18+ to Party/21+ to Drink
Doors: 9:30PM
595 North Ave. NW
Atlanta, GA 30318
Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Chevy Woods.
Chevy Woods Background:
Chevy Woods has been building up momentum with his mixtapes Red Cup Music, The Cook Out, and the Gangland series, progressing his sound with each release. After years of writing and recording in his home studio, Chevy traded in his keyboard for cash to pay for studio time. In 2004, while recording at Pittsburgh’s I.D. Labs Studios, Chevy encountered Wiz Khalifa and the two instantly formed a bond. “Me and Wiz, we always had each other’s backs. Since we were both recording at I.D. Labs at the same time, we would hold each other down,” Chevy has explained. “Even if it was just picking up Wendy’s for the other one on our way to the studio.”
Filmed in a Shanghai high rise, the dream pop duo NΔTIONS‘ video for “My Ways” is a calming, kaleidoscope of lights. The video is the debut visual from artist incubator BKLYN1834‘s forthcoming inaugural compilation, aptly titled, Comp_01, scheduled for release on November 13th, 2015.
Comprised of veteran producers and principle songwriters Nolan Thies and Toby Pipes, the duo often recruits additional vocalists and musicians for their projects. For “My Ways,” they recruited BKLYN1834’s creative director and founder, Andrew Thomas Reid, for vocals. Despite being about a couple dealing with a recent bout of infidelity, the song isn’t as sad as it is melancholy. Earmilk, who premiered both song and video stated, “the three make beautiful, ethereal sounds.”
Both Nolan Thies and Andrew Thomas Reid are current residents of BKLYN1834, the talent incubator that provides seven young artists with a place to live so they can write, record, and create content in a collaborative salon-like environment. Redefining how artists create, distribute, and market their work, BKLYN1834 exists for brands to easily tap them for collaborations. Some of those brands include Pepsi, Converse, Apple, and Blackstone Realty. The collective has housed over 50 artists and gave birth to media darlings denetia and sene, who met as roommates. and previous and current residents have worked with Prince, Taylor Swift, Toby Keith, Snarky Puppy, Theophilus London, Freddie Gibbs, Pharaohe Monch, among others.
BKLYN1834’s debut compilation, Comp_01, is set to release on November 13th and will include seven songs, with each having their own accompanying video. Comp_01 will span from indie rock to indie pop to electronic songs and contain songs from NΔTIONS’ roommates Saint Ballantine, Sanctuary Sound, ATR777, Bobby Only, and Foe Destroyer.
Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with BKLYN1834 artists.
BKLYN1834 Background:
BKLYN1834 is a talent incubator for young artists who live together in a co-op style Victorian Home in Ditmas Park, Brooklyn and create music, art, videos, comedy, and other creative content. Modeled after the salon-like atmosphere of Hitsville U.S.A. and Gertrude Stein’s home, founding resident and creative director of BKLYN134, Andrew Thomas Reid, traveled to Nicaragua and Spain to convince friends to move into the house in the summer of 2009.
BKLYN1834 supports young artists by providing them with a place to live, write, record and produce content in a creative and collaborative environment. Previous and current BKLYN1834 residents have worked with Prince, Taylor Swift, Toby Keith, Snarky Puppy, Theophilus London, Freddie Gibbs, Pharaohe Monch, Denitia and Sene, among others. Fittingly nicknamed “The Clubhouse,” the community has housed over 50 residents since its inception.
BKLYN1834’s long-term goal is to create a network of similar clubhouses across the country and around the world. By continuing to produce digital content in-house, we want to create a global community where artists, fans, and brands can all engage.
With more and more brands recognizing the value of authentic grassroots ideas that appeal to 18-34 yr olds, BKLYN1834 has already been tapped for collaborations by Pepsi, Converse, Apple, and Blackstone Realty. Forbes called BKLYN1834 “a tool every marketer should have in its back pocket.”
MP3: Opio x Free The Robots – “Fuego” [Mono/Poly Remix]
Following Their Debut Album, Sempervirens, the Hieroglyphics Emcee and L.A. Beat Scene Vet Share a Remix, Premiered by Mass Appeal
10.09.2015
Critical Praise:
“Free the Robots…taps a dark, psychedelic vein while boasting highly technical hip-hop production prowess.” – SPIN
“Opio’s strengths are found in his flow and wordplay. His cadence is married to each rhythm.” – Okayplayer
“Opio’s ability to utilize intricate wordplay and vivid imagery as a means of putting him ahead of the pack.” – HipHopDX
“Somewhere between the neck-snapping, gritty hip-hop of the FatBeats era, the fuzzy, distorted psychedelia of the 60s & 70s, cool jazz, and the woozy beats scene of the last decade lies the music of Free the Robots.” – Okayfuture
The Remix:
Brainfeeder producer and Low End Theory mainstay Mono/Poly has remixed Souls of Mischief rapper Opio‘s “Fuego,” transforming the bouncey, bass-driven deep cut into an infectious cyber-funk stepper. Hitting an other-worldly groove that’s built to blast out of Cali’s crunchiest car stereos, the remix, premiered by Mass Appeal, follows last month’s release of Opio and L.A beat scene vet Free the Robots‘ Sempervirens album.
Recorded predominately in a redwood forest grove called Cazadero, Sempervirens is a product of Opio and Free the Robots’ time spent along there verdant Northern California coastline. The duo began experimenting together last year, merging their respective skills on production hardware as seen in their Delicious Vinyl TV session. In March, Opio and FTR released The Subconscious Mind EP, before sharing their aforementioned full-length debut via Clear Label Records last month.
“This time spent away from the chaotic concrete jungles we both live in recharged our batteries and set the stage to create art off of the renewed energy from our inspiring journey,” Opio explained to Ambrosia for Heads. Free the Robots added that “I feel like we are both going through a re-birth, and with that, we both have been able to create with no expectations; just open minds.” This fresh outlook is apparent on tracks such as “808 State of Mind,” where fat synth bass lines meld with shimmering hi-hats and tight 808 snares. On others like “Loki Drop,” Opio spits over layered percussion and spastic yet rhythmic vocal samples.
Upon being introduced to Free The Robots’ music while on tour for Souls of Mischief,Opio gravitated towards FTR’s bass-heavy vibe and added his catalogue to his daily music rotation. While reading up on FTR, Opio learned that he not only is he a beatmaker but a food maker as well and when the tour roared through his hometown of Santa Ana, Opio made a point of having dinner at FTR’s restaurant, the Crosby. While at dinner with his tour-mates, producer and composer Adrian Younge and Souls of Mischief-mate, Phesto, Opio and Free The Robots got a chance to know one another. As is turns out, a lot of Free The Robots’ hip hop background had been greatly influenced by Opio, and Opio, wanting to take his solo work in a more futuristic progressive direction, found inspiration in FTR. They immediately clicked. By the end of dinner, they had plans to make a record and here it is, The Subconscious Mind EP.
Following First Commercial EP, The 48 Hunnid Project, Taylor Gang’s Chevy Woods Drops Heavy-Hitting Single
10.09.2015
The Song:
Chevy Woods dropped his latest single “Jeter,” named after the very familiar future hall-of-famer shortstop. Despite hailing from Pittsburgh, the Taylor Gang rapper decided to name his track after a NY sports hero, although we can definitely see why. As said by HotNewHipHop, “Jeter is actually a pretty good analog to the rap dream — franchise player, making a ton of money, sleeping with models, making hits.” The Bobby Johnson-produced track hits hard immediately, with rattling drums and ominous, arpeggiated synths followed by Wood’s powerful delivery.
“Jeter” is a loose track that follows The 48 Hunnid Project, Chevy Woods’ first commercial release after 12 years of dropping mixtapes. The Taylor Gang Ent. emcee has been honing his skills and growing his fanbase steadily over the years, and now he’s finding great success with The 48 Hunnid Project. Chevy got people hyped for the EP with visuals for tracks like “All Said and Done” featuring Dej Loaf, which premiered viai-D. Throughout the EP, Woods is joined by a talent-packed cast such as Wiz Khalifa, OG Maco, Rico Love, and Post Malone.
Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Chevy Woods.
Chevy Woods Background:
Chevy Woods has been building up momentum with his mixtapes Red Cup Music, The Cook Out, and the Gangland series, progressing his sound with each release. After years of writing and recording in his home studio, Chevy traded in his keyboard for cash to pay for studio time. In 2004, while recording at Pittsburgh’s I.D. Labs Studios, Chevy encountered Wiz Khalifa and the two instantly formed a bond. “Me and Wiz, we always had each other’s backs. Since we were both recording at I.D. Labs at the same time, we would hold each other down,” Chevy has explained. “Even if it was just picking up Wendy’s for the other one on our way to the studio.”
News: Montreal’s The Posterz Announce Second EP, JUNGA for October 30th
Complex Premieres Their Debut Song “Bulalay” From Their Six-Song EP
10.09.2015
Critical Praise for The Posterz:
“‘Starships & Dark Tints,’ The Posterz’ debut EP, consists of five songs packed tight with weird beats and promising lyrical flow.” – Red Bull
“The trio from Montreal rap quickly over bouncy synths and whines that are punctuated by quivering horns, but more important is the fact that they look cool while doing so. “- Noisey
“It felt like if the Canadians won the Stanley Cup – except Husser, Kris The Spirit, and Sir-Share-It are holding the Cup.” – The Hundreds
“Montreal is slowly but surely becoming a hotbed for hip-hop. With the help of producers like Kaytranada, and artists like The Posterz, the city’s finally on the map for budding talent.” – Complex
The EP:
Emerging from the dark alleyways of Quebec’s crown jewel, Montreal, is a three-man group by the name of The Posterz. Comprised of rappers Husser and Kris the $pirit, and producer Joey Sherrett, the unapologetic trio are proud to release their sophomore project entitled JUNGAon October 30th. The EP consists of four original songs, one remix of a Secret Sun record, and one chopped and screwed remix.
JUNGA will be released two years to the day they dropped their debut EP,Starships and Dark Tints, which landed them on the radars of the Huffington Post who named them a “Top 10 Artists to Follow” in 2014 and inNoisey US/UK/France/Canada, Complex, Red Bull Music, Les InRocks, the Montreal Gazette, and more. The debut EP included their break-out single “The Bass Song,” a defiant anthem that came with an equally vibrant, self-directed video. Full of their signature dark, ominous, and viscerally intense vibes, JUNGA ranges from modern-day boom-bap (“Want It All”) to a rock-infused love/hate anthem (“Ben Up”), and even a flip of synth-pop duo Secret Sun (“Cold Coast remix.”)
“The Posterz are pillars of the new wave of Montreal rap,” Complexstated in their premiere post of the group’s first single, “Bulalay” (a made-up word used as a war chant). Amidst the cacophony of nature sounds you’d hear underneath the Amazon canopy, slink Husser and Kris the $pirit own the tribal beat to relay a typical day in their concrete jungle environment. As they describe it, “We’re comparing hater and negative energy to shooters or hunters in the jungle. We’re comfortable in our environment and stating that no one can fuck with us in that environment, we’re bulletproof.”
JUNGA EP Tracklisting:
1) Bulalay
2) Want It All
3) Rumble
4) Ben Up
5) Cold Coast Remix
6) Want It All *Chopped & Screwed version*
Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with The Posterz.
The Posterz Background:
In five short years and not much more than one EP worth of music, Montreal-based rap trio The Posterz have staked their claim in hip-hop both locally and globally with their refreshing, raw and innovative sound. They seemingly emerged fully formed, making their first splash with October 2013’s “The Bass Song,” a defiant anthem that came with an equally vibrant, self-directed video. The Starshipsand Dark Tints EP followed, as did love from the press: the trio were named in Huffington Post’s “Top 10 Artists to Follow” in 2014, and featured in numerous publications such as Noisey US/UK/France/Canada, Complex, Red Bull Music, Les InRocks, the Montreal Gazette, and more.
The group linked up in 2010, in a community center studio in Little Burgundy, a downtown Montreal neighborhood which birthed the city’s internationally renowned jazz scene a couple of generations earlier. Rappers Husser and Kris the $pirit stumbled on what Husser called “the best beat we ever heard in our lives” on the studio computer. They tracked down its creator; in producer Joey Sherrett, they found the third member of the group. The Posterz cite Kanye West, Andre 3000, Future and The Beatles among other influences, but are adamant about creating a sound that is all their own. Even in Montreal, they say their biggest inspirations are less musical and more aspirational; Montreal-born acts like Arcade Fire and Kaytranada made them realize they could blow up too. Huss and Kris temper their deft lyricism with a sense of humor. Sherrett’s beats mix adventurous, hard-knocking drums with masterful of low-end leads and expert synth work. They will release the JUNGA EP on October 30th, 2015.
News: Marc E. Bassy Signs to Republic Records and Releases “Some Things Never Change” Video
His East Hollywood EP Will Be Available at All Digital Retailers October 30th
10.09.2015
Critical Praise for Marc E. Bassy:
“His story is one about the amazing results that come from artistic exploration without expectation.” – KQED
“It’s time we all get better acquainted with the one they call Marc E. Bassy.” – Okayplayer
“Marc E. Bassy is a fresh voice and one of LA’s own. He fits comfortably in the space between Frank Ocean and Mac Miller.” – LA Music Blog
“His bouncy flow channels the manic energy of Chance The Rapper; the animated style and tempered synths of “Cigarettes” could comfortably fit as a b-side to Acid Rap” – SPIN
“If you’re looking for a soulful vibe to act as the soundtrack for your summer kickbacks, get familiar with Marc E. Bassy.” – XXL
The Video:
Singer songwriter Marc E. Bassy has signed to Republic Records and will release his East Hollywood EP at all digital retailers on October 30th, 2015. Originally released as a free project via his Soundcloud page, the commercial release of the EP will serve as his debut project on his new label. Marc E. Bassy is also releasing his self-directed video for the standout track “Some Things Never Change,” which The FADER called “a sludgy R&B-soul hybrid and an anthem for dream chasers” in their premiere post.
Filmed by his Platter Mob squad (members include Marc E. Bassy, Nic Nac, Bobby Brackins, and Robert Stewart) in his own backyard, the California artist’s video for “Some Things Never Change” is a rare glimpse into his well-guarded psyche. Surrounded by his best friends and his favorite vices, the video follows Marc E. Bassy as he walks through a moonlit carnival, bringing the chorus to life: “Money. Fame. Always on my brain / some things never change, some things never change.”
Explains Marc E. Bassy, “When I say ‘money, fame,’ it’s not just about that. I’m saying that once you’ve begun dedicating your life to something like entertainment you can’t really escape the desire for these things. ‘STNC’ is about being unable to escape a superficial world. When I try to free myself from the usual temptations that come with being a musician, the longing for success pulls me back in. I make music to escape but the music becomes the catalyst for superficiality and I get caught in an infinite loop. It’s like the thing I do to be zen makes me do the most un-zen things. The song is about coming to grips with the fact that all I wanna do is sing my songs all over the world and be successful.”
Marc E. Bassy’s commitment to evolving his artistry knows no depth. As a songwriter he has penned cuts for popstress PIA MIA, 2 Chainz, Chris Brown, Usher, Akon, Sean Kingston, Prince Royce, Allen Stone, HBK Gang, and more. Described as “smooth” by The FADER and a “fresh voice” by LA Music Blog, his unique blend of boozy, bass-heavy, sexy storytelling on the East Hollywood EP takes listeners through a recent period in which he went through a series of major transitions. Proud of the work he put in during an especially difficult period of his life, Marc E. Bassy says, “This is my best work to date. I love getting my heart broken. It’s the best – it makes you pick yourself off the floor and do better.”
East Hollywood EP Tracklisting:
1. Some Things Never Change
2. Faded ft. Pia Mia & Wynter Gordon
3. Free Love ft. HBK P-LO
4. Drunk and I’m Drunk ft. Bobby Brackins
Bonus Tracks (different depending on which digital retailer is accessed)
1. XX
2. On Top
3. Good Money
Please contact Michelle if interested in talking with Marc E. Bassy.
Marc E. Bassy Background:
San Francisco-born singer songwriter Marc E. Bassy is an artist who refuses to be pigeonholed. Inspired by the Bay Area rap he grew up with as well as traditional Soul/RnB music, Marc has always found himself balancing between the two. Not only has Marc written songs for 2 Chainz, Sean Kingston, Allen Stone, Rince Royce,Chris Brown and Wiz Khalifa but he has also found success with his former Rap/Rock group 2AM Club, whose 2010 debut album What Did You Think Was Going To Happen? reached #3 on the Billboard Heatseekers charts. His debut solo EP Only The Poets, was released the summer of 2014, marking the beginning of the next phase in his career. Shortly after he released his sophomore EP, The East Hollywood EP, Marc signed with Universal Republic and will re-release the EP commercially on October 30th, 2015.
MP3: J.Lately– “I Miss You” (ft. Champluther Vandross & Della)
Prepping For the Release of His Let’s Just Be Friends Album, the Bay Area Emcee Shares Jazzy Hip-Hop Track, Debuted by HYPEFRESH Mag
10.07.2015
The Song:
With a catalogue that spans the past few years, J.Lately has distinguished himself as an emcee with soulful style and a laid back flow. Today he’s sharing “I Miss You,” a single from his forthcoming Let’s Just Be Friends album. Premiered by HYPEFRESH Mag, horn jabs give the nostalgic hip-hop track a jazzy twist as the Oakland rapper is joined by vocalists Champluther Vandross and Della, the latter of which was spotlighted in the latest episode of J.Lately’s Food With Friends series.
On his previous release “Can’t Go For That,” which premiered on GoodMusicAllDay, J.Lately teamed up with Tanya Morgan’s Von Pea and Bambu to speak on living life to the fullest and avoiding roadblocks along the way. “J.Lately’s flow is smooth and very relaxing to listen to as he delivers perfectly over the Oops production. Another element of this song to appreciate is the storytelling as J.Lately takes us through everyday life and dodging obstacles as he refuses to be a product of his environment,” GoodMusicAllDay said in their premiere post.
Coming from the small town of Sebastopol, and having split time between Oakland and Southern California, J.Lately’s influences are eclectic and mesh together effortlessly to form his own individual style. A relentless drive has kept Lately on tour across the country with artists such as Zion I, Locksmith, Los Rakas, Chuuwee, and Rey Res to name a few. He has released multiple solo and collaborative projects, with his most recent solo release being 2014’s Make.Believe, J.Lately’s upcoming album, Let’s Just Be Friends, releases October 23rd and is available for pre-order.
Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with J.Lately.
J.Lately Background:
With no pretend marketing scheme or gimmick, J.Lately distinguishes himself with his classic style and laid back flow. A true appreciation for music, along with the unique ability to put everyday life into a relatable perspective has allowed him to flourish in the local Bay Area scene. “It’s not about rushing it” explains Lately, “it’s about quality music and progress.”
“…he uses his voice and flow in unique ways that only someone who’s been writing for close to a decade could pull off” – HotNewHipHop
“The future is looking type bright for J.R.” – Fake Shore Drive
“At 21-years old, the Chi town native J.R. Donato has already accomplished a lot” – GoodMusicAllDay
“Make it count and get in tune with Young Donato” – onSMASH
The Video:
21-year-old Taylor Gang rapper J.R. Donato is seeing double in “Don’t Go Nowhere,” a drug-induced escapade where static weaves through his faded, Red-Light-certified haze. Produced by Sledgren, 808’s overflow amid the spaced-out instrumental as Donato’s tripped-out, charismatic flows fill out the track. Premiered by HotNewHipHop, “Don’t Go Nowhere” is the latest single from Donato’s Fast Money & Freedom EP, which released last Friday. With super sultry shots to trippy cuts, director J.A.T.H.A.N perfectly captures J.R.’s down-tempo vibe.
The North Chicago rapper laid down a multitude of singles preparing for the release of his EP- “I Suppose” found Donato couch-surfing through the Chi, while he partied with some friends in the carefree video for “Life So Sweet.” Additionally, audio singles “Make It Count” and “Mad At Me” showcased Donato embracing the opportunities that he’s encountered in his nearly ten year rap career. With Chi-Town legend Twista mentoring him on a regional high school tour as a teen, to Wiz Khalifa featuring Donato on his Cabin Fever 2 mixtape before signing him to Taylor Gang Ent, J.R. has had quite a ride. With his latest Fast Money & Freedom EP Donato is showing no signs of slowing down.
Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in speaking with J.R. Donato.
JR Donato Background:
J.R. Donato’s music can be summed up into three words; conceptual, vivid and thorough. His image, outlook on life and positivity that he brings to the hiphop community is a breathe of fresh air. His passion manifested itself early in the form of songwriting. “I always wrote about things I had been through or seen,” J.R. says. “I still do. Every song is another piece of my life and story.” Before J.R. reached his teenage years, he was already penning lyrics for himself and others. By the time he was 13, Young J.R. had a regional hit single “500 Degrees,” with a live performance presence that was unheard of for a kid who just left his teens. That led to other tracks like “Money On My Mind” and “We Be Rydin,” creating a sizeable buzz for young entertainer. He was popping up on mixtapes and performing at clubs he was too young to even attend.
The Taylor Gang Rapper Releases Visuals for Sledgren-Produced Track off His Recent Fast Money & Freedom EP
10.07.2015
Critical Praise:
“…he uses his voice and flow in unique ways that only someone who’s been writing for close to a decade could pull off” – HotNewHipHop
“The future is looking type bright for J.R.” – Fake Shore Drive
“At 21-years old, the Chi town native J.R. Donato has already accomplished a lot” – GoodMusicAllDay
“Make it count and get in tune with Young Donato” – onSMASH
The Video:
21-year-old Taylor Gang rapper J.R. Donato is seeing double in “Don’t Go Nowhere,” a drug-induced escapade where static weaves through his faded, Red-Light-certified haze. Produced by Sledgren, 808’s overflow amid the spaced-out instrumental as Donato’s tripped-out, charismatic flows fill out the track. Premiered by HotNewHipHop, “Don’t Go Nowhere” is the latest single from Donato’s Fast Money & Freedom EP, which released last Friday. With super sultry shots to trippy cuts, director J.A.T.H.A.N perfectly captures J.R.’s down-tempo vibe.
The North Chicago rapper laid down a multitude of singles preparing for the release of his EP- “I Suppose” found Donato couch-surfing through the Chi, while he partied with some friends in the carefree video for “Life So Sweet.” Additionally, audio singles “Make It Count” and “Mad At Me” showcased Donato embracing the opportunities that he’s encountered in his nearly ten year rap career. With Chi-Town legend Twista mentoring him on a regional high school tour as a teen, to Wiz Khalifa featuring Donato on his Cabin Fever 2 mixtape before signing him to Taylor Gang Ent, J.R. has had quite a ride. With his latest Fast Money & Freedom EP Donato is showing no signs of slowing down.
Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in speaking with J.R. Donato.
JR Donato Background:
J.R. Donato’s music can be summed up into three words; conceptual, vivid and thorough. His image, outlook on life and positivity that he brings to the hiphop community is a breathe of fresh air. His passion manifested itself early in the form of songwriting. “I always wrote about things I had been through or seen,” J.R. says. “I still do. Every song is another piece of my life and story.” Before J.R. reached his teenage years, he was already penning lyrics for himself and others. By the time he was 13, Young J.R. had a regional hit single “500 Degrees,” with a live performance presence that was unheard of for a kid who just left his teens. That led to other tracks like “Money On My Mind” and “We Be Rydin,” creating a sizeable buzz for young entertainer. He was popping up on mixtapes and performing at clubs he was too young to even attend.
Following the Release of His slab god Album, the TX Rap Kingpin Celebrates Slab Culture With a Smooth Visual
10.06.2015
The Video:
Accompanying his recent slab godalbum, Houston rep Paul Wall is paying homage to his city’s slab culture with the Michael Artis-directed visual for “Swangin in the Rain.” “Last week marked the ten-year anniversary of the release of Paul Wall’s sophomore album, The Peoples Champ, and the guy has pretty much been hitting the same notes ever since,” Complex said of the Scoop Deville-produced single, which samples Shalamar‘s “This is for the Lover in You.” Meanwhile, Pitchfork raved “It’s essentially the grown-up, chilled out reprisal to ‘Sittin Sidewayz’ a decade later. Even better than a comeback: when you never really left to begin with.”
slab god premiered on VIBE, with Paul Wall reviving his signature sound with help from an all-star cast including Snoop Dogg, Curren$y, Berner, Devin Tha Dude, Trae Tha Truth, Husalah, and more. With signature Southern slang and funk/soul-inspired, trap-induced backdrops, Paul Wall transports the listener to his hometown, painting a picture so vivid that the listener would think they’re riding shotgun in his slab. “In Texas, Paul Wall’s name still rings bells as the man with candy paint and custom grillz for the low,” VIBE noted in their post. “But don’t think the hip-hop world has forgotten about one of Houston’s most visible spokesman.”
“When I fell in love with music, particularly hip-hop, I listened to it in the car,” Paul Wall explained to Noisey in an interview last month. “In Texas, you’ve got to drive, and sometimes you wanna listen to something good. I went all the way back to the drawing board and went back to what made me, y’know, me. Bars, hooks. And that’s what slab god to me is, just getting back to the basics. It took me a couple projects to get where I want to be, and I feel like I’m in a good spot. Lot of good music been coming out the studio when I go in there lately. I’m proud to be 20 years in, still remaining me.”
News + Video: J. Stalin Announces Tears of Joy Album, Shares Visual for “Bye Felicia” Single ft. L’Jay
Lil Debbie Joins the Bay Area Legend in New Visual From Project Set to Release on October 30th
10.06.2015
Critical Praise:
“As the owner of Livewire Records, West Oakland rapper J Stalin provides a place for the growth of incredibly creative, meat-and-potatoes Bay Area hip-hop. The label hosts gritty rubbery street music that navigates crack dealing devastation and grounded partying tracks with equal aplomb, with artists that range from Stalin himself to MCs like Shady Nate and Philthy Rich among others.” – SPIN
“J Stalin pushes the envelope by vividly reiterating his Mob Bay Area persona and turmoil of his harsh upbringing.” – XXL
The Announcement + Video:
Bay Area rap legend J. Stalin is announcing his forthcoming album, Tears Of Joy, slated to release on October 30th. With features from Iamsu!, Riff Raff, Snow Tha Product, Mistah F.A.B., The Jacka, Rayven Justice, D-Lo, B-Legit, and Jonn Hart, the MC is bringing his prolific personality and rhymes back to the scene. Today, J. Stalin is also sharing his Damon Jamal-directed visual for “Bye Felicia,” which has him ducking his old flame Lil Debbie while laid up in bed with his new girl.
J. Stalin previously released SID: Shining in Darkness, adding to his collection of 14 mixtapes he’s released over the past 8 years. In a review of the album, XXL said “J. Stalin pushes the envelope by vividly reiterating his Mob Bay Area persona and turmoil of his harsh upbringing,” adding, “Shining In Darkness is easily considered one of J. Stalin’s most cultivating yet.” Hailing from West Oakland, J. Stalin has long been one of the Bay Area’s most respected artists. In 2007, he signed to Zoo Entertainment Production Company run by artist Mekanix. He is also the Owner of Livewire Records and the President of Town Thizzness ENT, which is a sub-division of the late Mac Dre‘s Thizz ENT. Tears Of Joy releases October 30th, 2015.
Tears Of Joy tracklist:
1. What’s My Name
2. Selling Crack
3. We All In
4. Think U Ready ft. The Jacka
5. Jacka’s Prayer
6. Bye Felicia ft. L’Jay
7. Face Shots
8. Running ft. Iamsu & Rayven Justice
9. Thang Rang
10. Boppin’
11. Thang On Me
12. Going Steady
13. Now A Days
14. Can’t Tell Me Nothing ft. Garret The Singer
15. Instagram Gangstaz ft. L’Jay
16. Bad P*ssy Song ft. D-Lo
17. Never Change ft. B-Legit & 4Rax
18. Can’t F*ck Wit U ft. Lil June & Jonn Hart
19. Mama’s Bou ft. Mistah F.A.B.
20. F*ck Rite
21. I’m Sorry
Premiered by Billboard, Reggae Heavyhitter Collie Buddz Enlists Iamsu! and Berner for Lead Single “Wake & Bake” From General Hydroponics Vol. 2 Compilation
Press Release
Premiered by Billboard, Reggae Heavyhitter Collie Buddz Enlists Iamsu! and Berner for Lead Single “Wake & Bake” From General Hydroponics Vol. 2 Compilation
MP3: Collie Buddz x Iamsu! x Berner – “Wake & Bake”
Premiered by Billboard, the Reggae Heavyhitter Enlists the Bay Area Rappers for Lead Single From General Hydroponics Vol. 2 Compilation
10.05.2015
The Song:
One of modern reggae music’s most prolific artists, Collie Buddz has shared his latest Mary Jane-inspired anthem, “Wake and Bake.” Joined by HBK Gang’s leader Iamsu! and Taylor Gang rapper Berner, the 420-friendly hit is the first single from an upcoming compilation album, General Hydroponics Vol. 2, which is set to release on Oct. 30th. The song debuted via Billboard, who noted that it’s “a catchy track that guarantees you’ll only have one thing on your mind while listening to it.” Airy synths and fat bass licks combine with verses that feel as refreshing as a sip from your early morning coffee, or as smooth as a pull from a fresh-cleaned piece. “Two sugars and a wake and bake,” echoes Buddz.
Billboard talked to Buddz about the track and he said at first he had a familiar face in mind for the track. “At first I sent the song to Wiz (Khalifa) thinking it would be a perfect fit,” he explained, “but then I got a call from Iamsu! who heard the rhythm and immediately laid down his verse. We still felt that something was missing and enlisted Berner to finish it off for us.”
“Wake & Bake” follows Collie Buddz’ recently released Blue Dreamz EP, which debuted at #3 on Billboard’s Reggae Album Charts. As he explained to The FADER, the EP is a product of a visit to Jamaica where he focused on “getting back to the roots, that raw Reggae sound.”Buddz’ homage to the original Reggae sounds shine through in tracks like the EP’s fist single “Like Yuh Miss Me” or the crowd-bumping track “Go Hard.” That reggae vibe is embellished with features from hip-hop vets Riff Raff and Snoop Dogg, bringing their own talents into the mix.
Known for his demanding tour schedule, Collie Buddz has spent the past few years supporting the likes of Cypress Hill, Rebelution, and Matisyahu, and still has dates until the end of this year through 2016. You can get tickets for any of his shows here.
Check out the dates for Collie Buddz’ Blue Dreamz Tour below.
Blue Dreamz West Coast Tour:
Oct. 16th Rhode Island Festival
Nov. 14th Uncorked Festival w/ Rebelution Irvine CA
Nov. 25 LA w/ Bone Thugs
Nov. 27th Vegas w/ Bone Thugs
Nov. 28th Phoenix w/ Bone Thugs
Nov. 29th Flagstaff
Nov. 30th Salt Lake City UT
Dec. 2nd Seattle
Dec. 3rd Seattle
Dec. 4th Eugene
Dec. 5th Portland OR
Dec. 6th Spokane WA
Dec. 9th Ashland OR
Dec. 10th Reno
Dec. 11th Petaluma
Dec. 12th Emerald Cup Santa Rosa
Blue Dreamz East Coast Tour
Dec. 29th Norfolk w/ Soja
Dec. 30th Charleston w/ Soja
Dec. 31st St. Petersburg FL w/ Soja Jan. 1st Jacksonville FL w/ Soja
Jan. 2nd Cocoa FL w/ Soja
Jan. 3rd Ft. Lauderdale FL w/ Soja
Growing up on the island of Bermuda, Reggae music was a formidable influence on a young Collie Buddz. Born Colin Harper in New Orleans, LA to a mother of Bermudian heritage with roots on the island dating back to the 1700s, his father passed away while Collie Buddz was at the tender age of four. Introduced to Reggae music by his older brother, Matthew, affectionately just known as “Smokey,” by the tenderfoot age of 12, Colin Harper quickly learned his way around a music studio.
With support from his team at Mojiza Management and touring and merchandising backing at Ineffable Music, Collie Buddz has toured the world. He’s honed his craft while in support of several tours with artists such as Cypress Hill, Rebelution and Matisyahu. He’s performed in front of thousands at the largest music festivals such as Lollapalooza, Boomtown, Summer Jam and the California Roots Festival. While touring, Buddz still found time to record new material and release original music independently on his own record label, Harper Digital. He’s even managed to launch a new radio station back home in Bermuda (Vibe 103) and become a father.
MP3: Major Lazer & DJ Snake – “Lean On” (ft. MØ) [Crush Effect Remix]
Electro Duo Takes on Heavy Hitters Major Lazer & DJ Snake’s Latest Commercial Hit with Energetic Remix, Premiered by EARMILK
10.02.2015
Critical Praise for Crush Effect:
“Crush Effect is emerging with a sound that should not go unnoticed by any electronic music listener.” – Heady Tunes
“Until the Next is an electro-soul masterpiece.” – Sensible Reason
“Nice and smooth, with that beach-cruising feel every funkadelic being loves to hear.” – The Untz
“Funk, jazz, soul, glitch hop and all the bass you could want.” – District Flow
The Remix:
SoCal Electro/Soul/Funk duo Crush Effect have transformed Major Lazer and DJ Snake‘s hit “Lean On” ft. MØ by incorporating an arrangement of speaker-rattling basslines, blaring brass, and cutting-contest-like pianos. The original track is a worldly effort, with American, French, and Danish talents all combined into one song. Crush Effect brings “Lean On” to a body-bouncing tempo, transforming the commercial hit into a fusion of jazzy and electronic elements. “Bringing a dreamy layer to the whole piece, the song is a remix producer’s total package, and something an artist like Ryan Hemsworth would definitely be caught blasting in his next set,” stated EARMILK in their premiere. “With an ode to the original and a spin into their unique fashion, this feels dipped in hip hop with an electronic icing over it. In other words, it’s freaking fantastic and worthy of all of your ears.”
Crush Effect previously released their Until the Next EP, which Sensible Reason calls “an electro-soul masterpiece.” The EP showcases their unique style, blending soul with jazz influences along with modern, bass-heavy EDM sounds. Also available for free download, the EP has gained the duo critical praise and a ton of new fans. As stated by Heady Tunes, “Crush Effect is emerging with a sound that should not go unnoticed by any electronic music listener.” Crush Effect has been compiling a list of accomplishments dating back a couple of years, with the duo winning the Future Music Magazine 2010 “Claude Von Stroke Remix Competition, while also scoring as a runner up in Kaskade’s 2010 Beatport.com Dynasty Remix Competition. Recently, they’ve gotten placements in a nationally aired Kia commercial with Blake Griffin, along with a Southern Comfort commercial.
Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Crush Effect.
Crush Effect Background:
Soaked in melody, the newest release from southern California duo Crush Effect is nothing short of spectacular. The pristine production throughout their latest release, Until The Next, evokes imagery of crystal clear water and sandy beaches, perfect for its Spring release earlier this March. Pulling from the infectious influences of jazz and soul merged with modern bass-heavy EDM, these two renowned musicians have created something truly special. Fans of Pretty Lights, Flume, and Rustie will feel cozy with both the visceral and buoyant sounds throughout. In addition to their success with their EP, the group has had some great placements – a Kia commercial with Blake Griffin, a Southern Comfort commercial. Crush Effect is releasing their single, “Let the Good Times Roll,” as a follow up to Until The Next.
SuperDuperKyle Releases Sophomore Album SMYLE & Announces Tour Dates
10.02.2015
Critical Praise for KYLE:
“Kyle’s music brims with the kind of enormous emotion that makes your heart bigger, and better, for hearing it.” – Stereogum
“Known for upbeat lyrics and a general air of positivity.” – Ebony.com
“Today one of the rising stars of rap taking the keys is KYLE.” – HuffPo
“Kyle is a man of many talents. [He] has no problem genre-hopping from hip-hop to R&B to dance to pop, blending elements of each into his records.” – VIBE
“By the end of the evening I was completely convinced that this kid was undoubtedly working his way towards a top spot in the music world.” – AfroPunk
Eclectic, feel-good California rapper KYLE aka SuperDuperKyle, is releasing his SMYLEalbum today, with guest features ranging from Chance the Rapper, Yuna, and more. Earlier this week, Kyle released his Chance the Rapper-assisted, heartfelt track about his father “Remember Me” by texting a private link to fans. “Kyle’s music brims with the kind of enormous emotion that makes your heart bigger, and better, for hearing it,” Stereogum said in their post of the audio, while HotNewHipHop said “…Sorta sounds like that great Tupac song ‘Run Tha Streetz,’ except substituting Kyle’s breezier flow (which actually resembles that of Chance) for Tupac’s hardened delivery.”
“For this album, I wanted to capture a sound that was bright and fast and uptempo, something that could dive right into the heart of anyone who was having a bad day and pick them back up,” KYLE explains. “The meaning behind SMYLE is basically reminding people that life isn’t that bad as it can sometimes seem. With this album, I wanted to peel back more and more layers and be more connected with people and tell more relatable stories. That’s how you relate deeper, by further exposing your dreams, fears, and experiences.”
10/29 Los Angeles @ El Rey Theatre
11/01 Chicago @ Reggie’s
11/03 NYC @ The Studio at Webster Hall
11/5 Atlanta @ Center Stage
11/7 Houston @ Fitzgerald’s
11/10 Oakland @ The New Parrish
11/28 Ventura @ Ventura Theater
SMYLE Tracklisting:
1. The Force
2. Feels Good
3. Summertime Soul
4. Don’t Wanna Fall in Love
5. Endless Summer Syphony
6. Really? Yeah!
7. Deepest Part of Me (interlude)
8. SuperDuperHero (+ Brick)
9. All 4 You (+ Yuna)
10. Remember Me? (+ Chance the Rapper)
11. All Alright
12. DewWhutItDoez *bonus*
13. @FoundBae (Je$$ie) *bonus*
After Sharing the Stage With YG, Rae Sremmurd, Too $hort, and More, Santa Cruz Emcee Antdog Da Beast Shares Hard-Hitting Tunnel Vision EP, Debuted by GoodMusicAllDay
Press Release
After Sharing the Stage With YG, Rae Sremmurd, Too $hort, and More, Santa Cruz Emcee Antdog Da Beast Shares Hard-Hitting Tunnel Vision EP, Debuted by GoodMusicAllDay
After Sharing the Stage With YG, Rae Sremmurd, Too $hort, and More, the Santa Cruz Emcee Shares Hard-Hitting EP, Debuted by GoodMusicAllDay
09.30.2015
The EP:
21-year-old Santa Cruz rapper Antdog Da Beast has been bubbling in the Golden State scene rapping at 13 and hitting the Catalyst Club stage at 16 as an opener for The Pack and Dev. Additionally, he’s shared stages with YG, Rae Sremmurd, Too Short, Roach Gigz, Problem, Mistah Fab, the Hieroglyphics, Andre Nickatina, Mac Mall, and more. Today, he’s sharing his coming-of-age release, Tunnel Vision, via GoodMusicAllDay. “Antdog establishes his own identity with his flow,” GMAD stated. “The project will definitely get played heavy during weekend pre-games.”
“This EP gives you true glimpse of me, which includes versatile and fresh songs that are all relatable,” Antdog explains. “I am focused and not letting anything get in the way of my vision.” The 6-song project captures Antdog’s amped up, nasally delivery and young, party-ready rhymes atop crunchy, bass-booming slaps – this may be most evident on tracks “Antdog Da Beast” and “For A Real 1.” Alternatively, the EP closes with a pair of more personal tracks in “Distractions” and “All I’m Askin,” where Antdog reflects on his come up and determination as he aspires to break new ground with his music.
The Santa Cruz emcee’s biggest hit to date is “Brackin’,” a collaboration with Iamsu! and P-Lo that was included on Antdog’s first mixtape, WAVY (Wild And Versatile Youngin’). “Santa Cruz is known for its laid back vibe and its young party scene,” Antdog told GoodMusicAllDay. “You will find surfers, skaters, college students, tourists and artists in this crazy yet cool city. Santa Cruz’s hip-hop scene is more underground, that is why it is vital for an artist like myself to emerge and produce that young Cali sound.”
The Atlanta Rapper Heads Home to West Atlanta for a Music Video-Turned-Short Film From Da’ Nic EP
09.25.2015
The Video:
T.I.P returns to the his origins on Atlanta’s West Side for “Broadcast Live,” the latest video single from Da’ Nic EP, which released earlier this month. The 7-minute Philly Fly Boy-directed visual is closer to a “mini motion piction,” as XXL called it, than it is your average music video, as T.I.P and DC Young Fly make their way around the city that T.I.P calls home. What’s been deemed a return to the trap music sound that T.I.P pioneered, Billboard noted that Da’ Nic EP “is a sparse and shadowy glimpse back into the bleak Southern ghettos that originally birthed the style.”
“He seems more invigorated than ever,” notedPigeons & Planes of T.I.P’s Da’ Nic EP, while Rolling Stone added that it’s “a lean, 19-minute return to uncompromisingly hard beats, street narratives and tricky flows.” His latest video is a follow up to “Check, Run It“, where Stereogum praised him for his “peerlessly fluid delivery.” Da’ Nic, serves as the precursor for the forthcoming 10-track full album, Da Dime Trap. “T.I. is the fucking best,” says Noisey. “He’s been going for almost 20 years at this point, and hasn’t shown any rust or wear in his music”
The 21 Year-Old Chicago-bred Taylor Gang Rapper Teams Up With Producer Sledgren For a Hazy, Hypnotic EP
09.25.2015
Critical Praise:
“…he uses his voice and flow in unique ways that only someone who’s been writing for close to a decade could pull off” – HotNewHipHop
“The future is looking type bright for J.R.” – Fake Shore Drive
“At 21-years old, the Chi town native J.R. Donato has already accomplished a lot” – GoodMusicAllDay
“Make it count and get in tune with Young Donato” – onSMASH
The EP:
On Fast Money & Freedom, Taylor Gang rapper J.R. Donato revisits his roots in Chicago and propels himself forward as a buzz-worthy new artist. While 2014’s North Pole found Donato teaming up with Wiz Khalifa, Ab-Soul, and Iamsu!, Fast Money & Freedom symbolizes a coming of age for the rapper. “In Chicago, Fast Money & Freedom is the perfect way to describe how we look at life at 17, 18 years old,” he explains. “A lot of people drop out of school because they can’t go to school without getting into a fight that’s gonna lead to a shootout. So motherfuckers end up focusing on other ways they can feed their family. That’s our mindstate here: fast money and freedom. We can’t think about college and all that slow motion shit. We gotta get it right now.”
In the lead-up to 21-year-old J.R. Donato’s Fast Money & Freedom EP, the North Chicago rapper has shared a series of singles. “I Suppose” found Donato couch-surfing through the Chi, while he partied with some friends in the carefree video for “Life So Sweet.” Additionally, audio singles “Make It Count” and “Mad At Me” showcased Donato embracing the opportunities that he’s encountered in his nearly ten year rap career while paying no mind to the people that’ve hated along the way. Produced in-full by Sledgren, Fast Money & Freedom has a consistently hazy, laid back vibe that matches Donato’s breezy, charismatic presence on the mic.
Rapping since the age of 13, J.R. Donato started off early with his regional hit “500 Degrees.” Still, his peers didn’t take him very seriously as he was distributing CD’s of his music at school – finding the music he worked to make on the floor or in the garbage didn’t deter his ambitions, rather it pushed him to take things a few steps further. Donato had been taken under the wing of Chi-Town legend Twista, who embarked on a regional high school tour that gave a teen-aged Donato his first platform to perform. After mentoring from Twista, the rapper that garnered attention for rapping over Lil Wayne beats was coming into his own. He soon crossed paths with Wiz Khalifa back stage on the Under the Influence Tour. Wiz later enlisted J.R. for a feature on his Cabin Fever 2 mixtape before signing him to Taylor Gang Ent.Now with eight years under his belt, Donato is primed for a break-out.
Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in speaking with J.R. Donato.
JR Donato Background:
J.R. Donato’s music can be summed up into three words; conceptual, vivid and thorough. His image, outlook on life and positivity that he brings to the hiphop community is a breathe of fresh air. His passion manifested itself early in the form of songwriting. “I always wrote about things I had been through or seen,” J.R. says. “I still do. Every song is another piece of my life and story.” Before J.R. reached his teenage years, he was already penning lyrics for himself and others. By the time he was 13, Young J.R. had a regional hit single “500 Degrees,” with a live performance presence that was unheard of for a kid who just left his teens. That led to other tracks like “Money On My Mind” and “We Be Rydin,” creating a sizeable buzz for young entertainer. He was popping up on mixtapes and performing at clubs he was too young to even attend.
Snoop Dogg, Devin the Dude, Curren$y, Trae Tha Truth Contribute to the Rapper’s Ode to Houston Car Culture, Debuted by VIBE
09.24.2015
Critical Praise:
“‘Swanging In The Rain’ is a strong introduction into the upcoming album, and one that will hopefully shape what’s yet still to come.” – HotNewHipHop
“Paul Wall’s entire career has been built around crafting the perfect soundtrack to your day.” – Noisey
The Album:
Texas rap kingpin Paul Wall is back with his new album, slab god, an homage to Houston car culture premiered by VIBE. With descriptive lyrics delivered with the “hip-hop dentist’s” signature Southern slang and funk/soul-inspired, trap-induced backdrops, Paul Wall transports the listener to his hometown, painting a picture so vivid that the listener would think they’re riding shotgun in his slab. “In Texas, Paul Wall’s name still rings bells as the man with candy paint and custom grillz for the low,” VIBE noted in their post. “But don’t think the hip-hop world has forgotten about one of Houston’s most visible spokesman.”
Earlier this week, Noisey debuted the slab god album’s second single, “Crumble the Satellite,” which features fellow Southern rap heavyweights Devin the Dude and Curren$y. “When I fell in love with music, particularly hip-hop, I listened to it in the car,” Paul Wall explained to Noisey in an accompanying interview. “In Texas, you’ve got to drive, and sometimes you wanna listen to something good. I went all the way back to the drawing board and went back to what made me, y’know, me. Bars, hooks. And that’s what slab god to me is, just getting back to the basics. It took me a couple projects to get where I want to be, and I feel like I’m in a good spot. Lot of good music been coming out the studio when I go in there lately. I’m proud to be 20 years in, still remaining me.”
Best known for his laid back flow on monumental Lone Star State anthems “Still Tippin’” and “Sittin’ Sidewayz,” as well as his guest verse on the now classic Kanye West collaboration “Drive Slow,” Paul Wall revives his nostalgic sound with help from an all-star cast of Snoop Dogg, Curren$y, Berner, Devin the Dude, Trae Tha Truth, Lil Keke, and more. In addition to “Crumble the Satellite,” which Houston Press named one of their Tracks of the Week, HotNewHipHop debuted the album’s third single, the Scotty ATL and Propain-assisted “Hold It Diine 4 My City,” which they called a “buttery-smooth banger.” The album’s first single, “Swangin in the Rain,” released earlier this summer and is currently impacting on radio. Paul Wall’s slab god album is available for pre-order on iTunes and officially releases on Friday, Sept. 25th.
slab god Tracklist:
1. Swangin in The Rain
2. Ran A Check Up ft. DJ Chose
3. Crumble The Satellite ft. Curren$y & Devin the Dude
4. Top Diine
5. No Insurance Ona Bitch ft. Husalah & DJ Mr. Rogers
6. Muddy Cups on Sunset
7. Steady Mobbin ft. Stunna Bam
8. Forever Hustle ft. Ampichino
9. Ridin Homie ft. Trae Tha Truth
10. Chose Me ft. Snoop Dogg & Berner
11. RIP ACT ft. C-Stone
12. Shine on Fo’s ft. Le$
13. Check List ft. Lil Keke
14. Slander My Name ft. Deadend Redd & Sosa Mann
15. Fool 4 Money
16. Money Time ft. Big Tho
17. Hold It Diine For My City ft. Scotty ATL & Propain
The Chicago Emcee and First Lady of Rhymesayers Ent.’s Third Studio Album Explores Love, Lust, and Relationships, Debuted by Complex
09.24.2015
Critical Praise:
“A seasoned writer with a soulful and vulnerable style, her songwriting is multi-faceted and ultra-cultural.” – ASCAP
A witty, talented lyricist who’s not afraid to reveal personal information as well as brag about her own skills, which are certainly numerable.” – All Music
“Living proof that a female rapper can be just as badass as a male one, that ‘female’ can be dropped altogether as a qualifier so that she can just be a rapper.” – Pop Matter
“How many more intellectual rap nerds and gangster rap poseurs does she have to leave doubled over in pain before people take notice of her dopeness?”– RapReviews.com
The Album:
The first lady of Rhymesayers Ent., Chicago emcee Psalm One has shared her third studio album, P.O.L.Y. (Psalm One Loves You), today via Complex. The album title alludes to the philosophy of polyamory, with Psalm One delivering playful, seductive wordplay complemented by developed production and live instrumentation. “I’m growing as a woman, as a person, and as an artist,” Psalm One told Complex when asked about her inspiration and the album’s subject matter. “As of the past year or so, I’ve been exploring polyamory. That is the practice of maintaining multiple loving relationships. It is a super challenging lifestyle, to say the least. Ups and downs, tears and joy. I have always been a serial monogamist, so my life has been turned upside down. As a result, my music has gotten more lush, and I’ve been able to open up my platform and peer group to more incredible musicians. I’m very community oriented now. Not so much into ‘scenes.’ I’m into sharing my crazy life with amazing people who deserve it.”
Fellow RAPPERCHICKS artist Angelenah joins Psalm One on the album’s opening track, “Secrets (No Waiting),” and also “Plenty of Wins,” which is a haunting, edgy number encapsulating Psalm’s shrewd, unbothered, and self-confident approach. “Kissy Face” is a more lighthearted take on relationships, while “Who Are You” is an introspective cut that finds Psalm letting her guard all the way down to express her true self. Earlier this month, Rookie Mag-debuted Psalm One’s My Gold Mask-assisted track “Maybe Never,” which followed the Okayplayer-premiered “Impatient (Just U & Us).” Earlier this year, Psalm One teamed up with fellow Chi-Town rapper ProbCause for their collaborative ZRO FOX EP, which received praise from Complex and Consequence of Sound.
Psalm One is currently headlining her DIY Tour with support from Angelenah, Fluffy, and the Palmer Squares throughout September and October, hitting various festivals and venues in the Midwest and Northeast.
Tour Dates:
9-26 – Urbana, IL – Pygmalion Festival
9-27 – Sioux Falls, SD – Billy Frog’s
9-29 – Omaha, NE – Waiting Room Lounge
10-1 – Iowa City, IA – The Mill
10-10 – Louisville, KY – Outskirts Festival
10-18 – Allston, MA – Wonder Bar
10-21 – Portland, MA – Asylum
10-25 – Manchester, NH – Shaskeen Pub
Hologram Kizzie (aka Psalm One) is the first woman artist signed to Rhymesayers Entertainment, a powerhouse of a label known for breeding legends. She’s savvy, self-assured and with almost a decade of rapping and touring under her belt she easily captivates her audience with thoughtful, provocative lyrics and exudes confidence. She has toured North America and Europe; watching her perform is both invigorating and inspiring. Having a degree in Chemistry from the University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign, Psalm knows the importance of education, so between tours and music production, she partners with Intonation Music Workshop to offer Rhymeschool, a hip-hop based after school program with an emphasis on literacy and team building. Rhymeschool is offered in cities across the United States, Haiti, and France and was a featured story on PBS.
Psalm One reintroduced herself to the world under a pseudonym: Hologram Kizzie with a new sound in her album Hug Life. She recently performed at Chicago Bulls’ Joakim Noah‘s birthday party via special request, and played an impressive four showcases at SXSW 2015. She’s shared stages with Vic Mensa, Kendrick Lamar & Travi$ Scott and her resume only continues to grow. Kizzie proves that artistry, growth and longevity are possible, even in this volatile rap landscape. Her most recent musical effort is ZRO FOX, released Winter 2015. ZRO FOX is a collaborative album with ProbCause, her label partner at Bonafyde Media, an artist-run Chicago-based record label. As a member of the all-female supergroup The Rapper Chicks, Psalm One is pushing boundaries and opening the door for new talent. Psalm One’s third studio album, P.O.L.Y. (Psalm One Loves You), is now available.
MP3: Paul Wall ft. Devin the Dude & Curren$y – “Crumble the Satellite”
The Texas Rap Legend Shares Smooth Second Single, Talks slab god Album and Timeless Raps With Noisey
09.22.2015
Critical Praise:
“‘Swanging In The Rain’ is a strong introduction into the upcoming album, and one that will hopefully shape what’s yet still to come.” – HotNewHipHop
“Paul Wall’s entire career has been built around crafting the perfect soundtrack to your day.” – Noisey
The Song:
Preparing for the release of his forthcoming album, slab god, Texas rap legend Paul Wall has shared the project’s second single, “Crumble the Satellite.” Premiered by Noisey, who labeled the track “a woozy, guitar driven 808 monster,” Paul Wall is joined by fellow Southern rap heavyweights Devin the Dude and Curren$y for an elevated anthem of Texas lingo delivered on top of a head-bobbing beat and smooth organ vibrato. Paul Wall boasts over acoustic guitar strums, “a white cup is my holy grail” and “these Johnny Dang diamonds, they ain’t from Zales.” “Crumble the Satellite” follows XXL‘s announcement of the slab god album, which is set to release this Friday, Sept. 25th.
“Paul Wall’s entire career has been built around crafting the perfect soundtrack to your day,” Noisey stated. “Crumble the Satellite” follows the album’s lead single, “Swangin in the Rain,” which HotNewHipHop called “a strong introduction into the upcoming album.” The album is an homage to Houston car culture, with ‘slab’ being an acronym for “Slow, Loud, And Bangin” which is mainly used to describe cars with sound systems, candy paint, rims, pop trunks, and other pimped-out customizations. Bringing back a slow tempo style, Paul Wall is ready to revive his signature sound with help from an all-star cast including Snoop Dogg, Curren$y, Berner, Devin the Dude, Trae Tha Truth, Husalah, and more. Known as the “Hip-Hop Dentist” for work with his Grills by Paul Wall business, which supplies retailers around the world with jewelry and grills, Paul Wall’s combined his entrepreneurial skills with his hip-hop talent to become one of the head figures in Southern rap.
slab god Tracklist:
1. Swangin in The Rain
2. Ran A Check Up ft. DJ Chose
3. Crumble The Satellite ft. Curren$y & Devin the Dude
4. Top Diine
5. No Insurance Ona Bitch ft. Husalah & DJ Mr. Rogers
6. Muddy Cups on Sunset
7. Steady Mobbin ft. Stunna Bam
8. Forever Hustle ft. Ampichino
9. Ridin Homie ft. Trae Tha Truth
10. Chose Me ft. Snoop Dogg & Berner
11. RIP ACT ft. C-Stone
12. Shine on Fo’s ft. Le$
13. Check List ft. Lil Keke
14. Slander My Name ft. Deadend Redd & Sosa Mann
15. Fool 4 Money
16. Money Time ft. Big Tho
17. Hold It Diine For My City ft. Scotty ATL & Propain
Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in speaking with Paul.
MP3: J.R. Donato – “Mad At Me” (Prod. by Sledgren)
The North Chicago Rapper Shares the Fourth Single from Upcoming Fast Money & Freedom EP, Debuted by GoodMusicAllDay
09.21.2015
The Song:
Taylor Gang rapper J.R. Donato drops his latest track, “Mad At Me,” in lieu of his upcoming Fast Money & Freedom EP, which is scheduled to release this Friday, Sept. 25th. Produced by Sledgren and premiered by GoodMusicAllDay, Donato’s fourth single is a laid back thumper twisting a vocal sample with 808 slaps. The 21-year-old North Chicago rapper reflects on his affinity for weed and women while acknowledging his allergy to wackness. “When the people who doubted and didn’t believe in your vision from the beginning wonder why you don’t fuck with them, they get mad at you,” Donato explains. “That’s what the title of this song was inspired by. I go through that a lot.”
“Mad At Me” follows “I Suppose“, the HipHopDX-debuted “Life So Sweet,” and the DJBooth-premiered “Make It Count.” While past projects have found Donato teaming up with Wiz Khalifa, Ab-Soul, and Iamsu!, Fast Money & Freedom symbolizes a coming of age for the rapper. Prior to teaming up with Khalifa’s Taylor Gang Ent., Donato had been taken under the wing of Chi-Town legend Twista, who embarked on a regional high school tour that gave a teen-aged Donato his first platform to perform. On Fast Money & Freedom, Donato revisits his roots in Chicago and propels himself forward as a capable solo artist.
Rapping since the age of 13, J.R. Donato started off early with his regional hit “500 Degrees.” Still, his peers didn’t take him very seriously as he was distributing CD’s of his music at school – finding the music he worked to make on the floor or in the garbage didn’t deter his ambitions, rather it pushed him to take things a few steps further. After mentoring from Twista, the teen-aged rapper that garnered attention for rapping over Lil Wayne beats was coming into his own. He soon crossed paths with Wiz Khalifa back stage on the Under the Influence Tour. Wiz later enlisted J.R. for a feature on his Cabin Fever 2 mixtape before signing him to Taylor Gang Ent.Now with eight years under his belt, Donato is ready to show everyone his sound and talent.
Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in speaking with J.R. Donato.
JR Donato Background:
At just 21 years old, Chicago’s J.R. Donato already has more than eight years in the rap game under his belt. By 13, he’d already landed a local hit, “500 Degrees,” under the name Young JR. During his junior year of high school, JR caught the attention of local legend Twista, landing a spot on his tour. Wiz Khalifa quickly became a mentor to JR, featuring him on his 2012 Cabin Fever 2 tape and signing him to his Taylor Gang label, where he remains the only Chicagoan of the crew. JR spent the next couple years touring with Wiz and the Gang on his Under the Influence of Music Tour, the opportunity of a lifetime for a Midwesterner still in his teens.
On his 2014 mixtape North Pole, JR featured a range of guests, from Wiz to Ab-Soul to Iamsu!. But on his newest project, Fast Money & Freedom, there are no features; It’s a cohesive eight-song project that still shows JR’s versatility—from Atlanta-leaning trap rattlers to guitar-tinged stoner jams—and tells the story of his city from the eyes of an introspective North Sider with a lot of life experience at a young age.
Premiered by Yahoo! Music, the Taylor Gang Rapper’s New Video Finds Him Hitting the Vegas Strip and Travelling to the City’s Outskirts
09.18.2015
The Video:
Taylor Gang rapper Chevy Woods has released a new video premiered by Yahoo! Music for the opening track from his first retail release, The 48 Hunnid Project. Hopping in a white Lambo to go to a grimy store on the outskirts of the Vegas Strip, on “4800” Chevy reminds us that money hasn’t changed him. “I might have access to nice things nowadays but it wasn’t always like that and I’m still the same person I’ve always been and I’m still hanging out with the same guys since day one.”
The Pittsburgh emcee has taken a huge step from being a mixtape king into a breakout, globally-touring artist. Twelve years of releasing material for the streets gave him the experience to be able to hone his craft and develop a strong fanbase that knows him and his skills on a personal level for his first commercial release. As uphill as his journey’s been, Woods never lets people forget where he came from, echoing the name of the block where he was raised in the Hazelwood neighborhood of the Steel City. Woods isn’t afraid to hit social issues head on, rapping “There’s police killin n*ggas, there’s n*ggas killin n*ggas, they say it’s never personal they always say it’s business.” Explains Chevy, “As artists, we can spread messages for those who don’t have a voice. There’s a lot going on in the world and I want to help get that point across.
On The 48 Hunnid Project, Chevy Woods is joined by an all-star cast, with Yahoo! Music stating that Woods “is a standout member of Wiz Khalifa’s Taylor Gang crew.” The seven-song release features regular collaborators such as Wiz on “Lookin Back,” as well as new talent like Post Malone on the Complex-premiered “Getcha Some,” OG Maco on the Arthur McArthur-produced “Whole Lot,” and DeJ Loaf joining him on the lead single, “All Said And Done,” for which the audio debuted via Billboard and video via i-D. Woods just finished a national run as a special guest on the Boys of Zummer Tour with Wiz Khalifa, Hoodie Allen, and Fall Out Boy. He documented intimate moments of the tour using a disposable camera for LiveNationTV, which you can view here.
1. “48 Hunnid” (Prod. by Mitzfits)
2. “Now That I’m Up” (Prod. by Sledgren)
3. “Getcha Some” [feat. PeeJ and Post Malone] (Prod. by Ricky P)
4. “All Said And Done” [feat. Dej Loaf] (Prod. by Ricky P and Anthony M)
5. “Whole Lot” [feat. OG Maco] (Prod. by Arthur McArthur)
6. “Wit Me” [feat. Rico Love] (Prod. by Rico Love)
7. “Lookin Back” [feat. Wiz Khalifa] (Prod. by Ricky P)
Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Chevy Woods.
Chevy Woods Background:
Chevy Woods has been building up momentum with his mixtapes Red Cup Music, The Cook Out, and the Gangland series, progressing his sound with each release. After years of writing and recording in his home studio, Chevy traded in his keyboard for cash to pay for studio time. In 2004, while recording at Pittsburgh’s I.D. Labs Studios, Chevy encountered Wiz Khalifa and the two instantly formed a bond. “Me and Wiz, we always had each other’s backs. Since we were both recording at I.D. Labs at the same time, we would hold each other down,” Chevy has explained. “Even if it was just picking up Wendy’s for the other one on our way to the studio.”
Video: Sir Michael Rocks – “Come Outside” (Prod. by Aegyokiller)
Following the Release of His Populair EP, the Chicago Rapper Lights Up the Scene in His New Visual, Debuted by Mass Appeal
09.18.2015
Critical Praise for Sir Michael Rocks:
“Sir Michael Rocks is a pretty damn adventurous dude.” – Noisey
“Needless to say, dude’s a visionary.” – XXL
“Sir Michael Rocks is ready to take over.” – Complex
“Rocks is a solo artist looking to make good on a promise of stardom.” – The FADER
“He’s Mikey, he, he, he rocks. Yes he does.” – Pigeons and Planes
The Video:
In the video for “Come Outside,” Chicago rapper Sir Michael Rocks is sporting a cheeky smirk. It could be because he’s partying with all his friends. It may be because of his recent travel to places like the Dominican Republic or Tokyo for fashion week. It might be because young emcee just released his Populair EP. Whatever the reason, Sir Michael Rocks is excited, elated, and has delivered a brand new sound, which the Examiner calls, “multi-directional, unpredictable, zany, chaotic, serious and dark.”
Produced by Aegyokiller, “Come Outside” debuted via Mass Appeal and includes an eerie sample from the Resident Evil Save Room theme. The video features the former The Cool Kids rapper and his crew doing some Chicago stepping to a heart-racing kick and speedy percussion. Rocks is no stranger to using video game samples in his tracks. On the Street Fighter-sampling second single “Perfect,” The A.V. Club noted the song “is fairly chippy and pixilated, it makes perfect sense that the accompanying video is video game-centric.”
The Populair EP, which premiered via Complex, is Sir Michael Rocks’ followup to last year’s Banco. Whereas Banco featured guest artists Mac Miller, Twista, and Iamsu!, the more personal and retrospective Populair features no guests. Rocks self-produced edgy tracks “Quality Time Lapse” and “In My Mode, ” where he boasts “I just bought a 3-D printer and I printed out a kilo.” “You can almost hear a bit of Bone Thugs and Suga Free in his style,” said HYPETRAK of the Populair EP’s first single, “Pull Up.”
1. “In My Mode” (Prod. by Sir Michael Rocks)
2. “Come Outside” (Prod. by Aegyokiller)
3. “Pull Up” (Prod. by Indigochildrick)
4. “L.M.B.” (Prod. by Aegyokiller)
5. “Perfect” (Prod. by T-Deezy & Lord Loud)
6. “Drowning in the French” (Prod. by Aegyokiller)
7. “Quality Time Lapse” (Prod. by Sir Michael Rocks)
8. “Alone” (Prod. by Aegyokiller)
Please contact MichelleorRoryif interested in talking with Sir Michael Rocks.
Sir Michael Rocks Background:
Sir Michael Rocks has always been a little ahead of his time, a little more original than his peers, a little bit more creative. As a teenager, he started making music under the name Mikey Rocks as one half of groundbreaking duo The Cool Kids. Formed over the Internet and powered by a strong grassroots fanbase online, the group helped redefine the image of rap for the Internet era with an effortlessly cool throwback style and an iconic, laid-back fashion sense. Rechristening himself as Sir Michael Rocks in 2011, the restlessly creative artist, now based in Miami after time spent in Chicago and LA, has been pushing the boundaries of rap originality even further in recent years with a string of popular, critically acclaimed mixtapes. He released debut solo album, Banco, in 2014 and released his PopulairEP on September 11th, 2015.
Recorded in a Redwood Forest Grove, Hieroglyphics Emcee Opio and Seasoned L.A. Producer Free the Robots Release Collaborative Sempervirens LP, Premiered by Okayplayer
Press Release
Recorded in a Redwood Forest Grove, Hieroglyphics Emcee Opio and Seasoned L.A. Producer Free the Robots Release Collaborative Sempervirens LP, Premiered by Okayplayer
Album: Souls of Mischief’s Opio x Free the Robots – Sempervirens
Recorded in a Redwood Forest Grove, Hieroglyphics Emcee and Seasoned Los Angeles Producer Release Collaborative Sempervirens LP, Premiered by Okayplayer
9.18.2015
Critical Praise:
“Free the Robots…taps a dark, psychedelic vein while boasting highly technical hip-hop production prowess.” – SPIN
“Opio’s strengths are found in his flow and wordplay. His cadence is married to each rhythm.” – Okayplayer
“Opio’s ability to utilize intricate wordplay and vivid imagery as a means of putting him ahead of the pack.” – HipHopDX
“Somewhere between the neck-snapping, gritty hip-hop of the FatBeats era, the fuzzy, distorted psychedelia of the 60s & 70s, cool jazz, and the woozy beats scene of the last decade lies the music of Free the Robots.” – Okayfuture
The Album:
They say creativity reaches its peak when one abandons the daily routines and sights of the monotony in everyday life. That’s exactly what Hieroglyphics/Souls of Mischief’s Opio and L.A. beat scene vet Free the Robots did with their newest album, Sempervirens which premiered via Okayplayer. Retreating out to a redwood grove on the Northern California coast, the duo escaped their respective cities and let their minds flow.
“This time spent away from the chaotic concrete jungles we both live in recharged our batteries and set the stage to create art off of the renewed energy from our inspiring journey,” explains Opio. Free the Robots adds that “I feel like we are both going through a re-birth, and with that, we both have been able to create with no expectations; just open minds.” This fresh outlook is apparent on tracks such as “808 State of Mind,” where fat synth bass lines meld with shimmering hi-hats and tight 808 snares. On others like “Loki Drop,” Opio spits over layered percussion and spastic yet rhythmic vocal samples.
Sempervirens is a result of Opio and Free the Robots first meeting at Hiero Day back in 2013. Released earlier this year, The Subconscious Mind EP was their first release together, debuted by Red Bull. The duo recently played at the 4th annual Hiero Day in Oakland on September 7th, and will be heading over seas at the top of next month for shows at Melkweg in Amsterdam on October 1st and in Paris on October 4th at Be Street Weekend.
Upon being introduced to Free The Robots’ music while on tour for Souls of Mischief,Opio gravitated towards FTR’s bass-heavy vibe and added his catalogue to his daily music rotation. While reading up on FTR, Opio learned that he not only is he a beatmaker but a food maker as well and when the tour roared through his hometown of Santa Ana, Opio made a point of having dinner at FTR’s restaurant, the Crosby. While at dinner with his tour-mates, producer and composer Adrian Younge and Souls of Mischief-mate, Phesto, Opio and Free The Robots got a chance to know one another. As is turns out, a lot of Free The Robots’ hip hop background had been greatly influenced by Opio, and Opio, wanting to take his solo work in a more futuristic progressive direction, found inspiration in FTR. They immediately clicked. By the end of dinner, they had plans to make a record and here it is, The Subconscious Mind EP.
SuperDuperKyle Channels Deep House & ’90s RnB Vibes For Second Single From Forthcoming SMYLE Album, Premiered By HYPETRAK
09.17.2015
Critical Praise for KYLE:
“Known for upbeat lyrics and a general air of positivity” – Ebony.com
“Today one of the rising stars of rap taking the keys is KYLE” – HuffPo
“Kyle is a man of many talents. [He] has no problem genre-hopping from hip-hop to R&B to dance to pop, blending elements of each into his records.” – VIBE
“By the end of the evening I was completely convinced that this kid was undoubtedly working his way towards a top spot in the music world.” – AfroPunk
Embracing his love of electronica and ‘90s RnB, SuperDuperKYLE channels SBTRKT-like vibes and samples “Shorty Swing My Way” for his newest single, “Endless Summer Symphony” from his forthcoming album SMYLE, due October 2nd. Opening with a choppy deep house line, KYLE traverses through double-time, half-time, and even a bridge where he sings, reminiscing about past summer’s lovin’ and how he never wants the summer to end.
“If I have a certain season to claim, it’s summertime. I don’t know if anyone else feels that type of way about a season but it’s when I come to life. The song expresses the great times I had during the summer, growing up and even now,” explains KYLE.
Often photographed with a surfboard and known to surf the crowd at shows on top of a surfboard, literally “crowd surfing ” the Ventura, California native used the 1966 cult classic surf film The Endless Summer as inspiration for the single cover artwork.
Growing as an awkward bi-racial kid from a lower middle class family growing up in a small beach town 60 miles north of L.A., KYLE eschews rapper stereotypes to focus on being a very average, happy young Californian who happens to be an amazing performer with a strong spirit.
“Endless Summer Symphony,” produced by Stefan Ponce (Chance the Rapper, Childish Gambino, Vic Mensa) and M-Phazes (Eminem, Kimbra), is the second single from SMYLE, which highlightsKYLE’s versatility and I-don’t-giva-a-fuck-ness about what a rapper should sound and feel like.
Featuring guest appearances from Chance the Rapper and Yuna, and more, Kyle’s eclecticism is on full display, which VIBE co-signed when they recently premiered a triangle of videos saying, “he has no problem genre-hopping from hip hop to RnB to dance to pop.” While experiencing a series of set-backs and challenges while growing up, Kyle learned to focus on the positive as a way to get through it all. It literally saved his life and as a result, he’s been spreading the gospel of positivity ever since. His die-hard fans love his uplifting, fun, don’t-chase-cool-just-be-yourself vibe and his social media following proves it: 100k Twitter, 110K Instagram, 1.7M views YouTube.
MP3: J.Lately– “Can’t Go For That” ft. Von Pea & Bambu (Prod. by Oops)
The Bay Area Rapper Enlists Von Pea and Bambu For First Single From Forthcoming Let’s Just Be Friends Album, Debuted by GoodMusicAllDay
09.15.2015
The Song:
Prolific Oakland rapper J.Lately distinguishes himself as an emcee with soulful style and a laid back flow on “Can’t Go For That,” the lead single from his forthcoming Let’s Just Be Friends album. The infectious tune, which premiered on GoodMusicAllDay, has J.Lately teaming up with Tanya Morgan’s Von Pea and Bambu to speak on living life to the fullest and avoiding roadblocks along the way.
“‘Can’t Go For That’ is the perfect combination of hard hitting 808’s mixed in over a soulful sampled hip hop beat,” GoodMusicAllDay said in their premiere post. “J.Lately’s flow is smooth and very relaxing to listen to as he delivers perfectly over the Oops production. Another element of this song to appreciate is the storytelling as J.Lately takes us through everyday life and dodging obstacles as he refuses to be a product of his environment.”
Coming from the small town of Sebastopol, and having split time between Oakland and Southern California, J.Lately’s influences are eclectic and mesh together effortlessly to form his own individual style. A relentless drive has kept Lately on tour across the country with artists such as Zion I, Locksmith, Los Rakas, Chuuwee, and Rey Res to name a few. He has released multiple solo and collaborative projects, with his most recent solo release being 2014’s Make.Believe. J.Lately’s upcoming album, Let’s Just Be Friends, releases October 23rd.
Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with J.Lately.
J.Lately Background:
With no pretend marketing scheme or gimmick, J.Lately distinguishes himself with his classic style and laid back flow. A true appreciation for music, along with the unique ability to put everyday life into a relatable perspective has allowed him to flourish in the local Bay Area scene. “It’s not about rushing it” explains Lately, “it’s about quality music and progress.”
The RAPPERCHICKS Emcee Debuts Her Latest Single With An Interview via Rookie Mag, Announces P.O.L.Y. Album via HipHopDX
09.14.2015
Critical Praise:
“A seasoned writer with a soulful and vulnerable style, her songwriting is multi-faceted and ultra-cultural.” – ASCAP
A witty, talented lyricist who’s not afraid to reveal personal information as well as brag about her own skills, which are certainly numerable.” – All Music
“Living proof that a female rapper can be just as badass as a male one, that ‘female’ can be dropped altogether as a qualifier so that she can just be a rapper.” – Pop Matter
“How many more intellectual rap nerds and gangster rap poseurs does she have to leave doubled over in pain before people take notice of her dopeness?”– RapReviews.com
The Song and News:
Brooding synths and seductive lyrics of dark romance make up Chicago emcee Psalm One‘s latest single “Maybe Never.” “I don’t want to be your guardian, I just want to treat you like my baby and love it,” she raps. Premiered with an interview via Rookie Mag, the 5 minute track symbolizes what Psalm One does best, creating music with provocative lyrical content that immediately captivates the listener. “Maybe Never” features My Gold Mask and is from Psalm One’s forthcoming album P.O.L.Y. (Psalm One Loves You). The album title alludes to the philosophy of polyamory, the state of being in love or romantically involved with more than one person at the same time. Announced with the tracklist via HipHopDX, P.O.L.Y. is set to drop September 25th.
Psalm One’s “Maybe Never” follows the release of the Okayplayer-debuted track “Impatient (Just U & Us),” which featured fellow RAPPERCHICKS member Angelenah (fka Angel Davanport). Prior to releasing “Impatient (Just U & Us)” and “Maybe Never,” Psalm One teamed up with fellow Chi-Town rapper ProbCause for their collaborative ZRO FOX EP, whichreceived praise from Complexand Consequence of Sound.Psalm One is currently headlining her DIYTour with support from Angelenah, Fluffy, and the Palmer Squares throughout September and October, hitting various festivals and venues in the Midwest and Northeast. Purchase tickets to Psalm One’s DIY Tour here.
Tour Dates:
9-11 – Chicago, IL – Riot Fest
9-18 + 9-19 – Carbondale, IL – Manna Festival
9-22 – Springfield, IL – Bar Non
9-26 – Urbana, IL – Pygmalion Festival
9-27 – Sioux Falls, SD – Billy Frog’s
9-29 – Omaha, NE – Waiting Room Lounge
10-1 – Iowa City, IA – The Mill
10-10 – Louisville, KY – Outskirts Festival
10-18 – Allston, MA – Wonder Bar
10-21 – Portland, MA – Asylum
10-25 – Manchester, NH – Shaskeen Pub
Psalm One, formerly known as (Hologram Kizzie) is the first female artist signed to Rhymesayers Entertainment, a powerhouse of a label known for breeding legends. She’s savvy, self-assured and with almost a decade of rapping and touring under her belt she easily captivates her audience with thoughtful, provocative lyrics and exudes confidence. She has toured North America and Europe; watching her perform is both invigorating and inspiring. Having a degree in Chemistry from the University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign, Psalm knows the importance of education, so between tours and music production, she partners with Intonation Music Workshop to offer Rhymeschool, a hip-hop based after school program with an emphasis on literacy and team building. Rhymeschool is offered in cities across the United States, Haiti, and France and was a featured story on PBS.
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