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04.02.2015
Houston Rapper Maxo Kream Takes To A$AP Mob SXSW Party With Awful Records’ Father In “Cell Boomin” Visual

Press Release

Houston Rapper Maxo Kream Takes To A$AP Mob SXSW Party With Awful Records’ Father In “Cell Boomin” Visual

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Video: Maxo Kream – “Cell Boomin” ft. Father

Following His #MAXO187 Mixtape Release, the 23-Year-Old Houston Rapper Was One of SXSW’s Breakout Artists, Latest Visual Debuted By MissInfo

4.2.2015

Critical Praise for Maxo Kream:

“This new Maxo Kream project might be one of the best things 2015 currently has to offer.” – HYPETRAK

“Over the last couple years, Maxo Kream has established himself as one of Houston’s most exciting young rappers by way of being one of Houston’s least traditionally minded artists.” – Noisey

“A sinister and visceral portrait of Houston street life.” – Pitchfork

The Video:

Houston rapper Maxo Kream was one of the breakout stars of SXSW, linking with Awful Records rapper/producer Father for performances and A$AP Rocky, who’s been a long-time supporter. Maxo Kream has a history of working with the A$AP Mob, and he and Father took to A$AP Rocky’s SXSW house party to shoot the visual for “Cell Boomin,” from Maxo’s recently released #MAXO187 project. The Midas Gold-directed video, which premiered yesterday via MissInfo, also features blunt-rolling cameos from Pretty Flacko and Lucki Eck$.

“The ups of trappin’ on the phone is that people don’t knock on your door,” Maxo Kream explained to Complex last month in their premiere of the “Cell Boomin” audio, adding “the downs is that they blow your phone up when you’re out.” “Cell Boomin” is a breakout single from Maxo’s critically acclaimed mixtape, which includes features from Joey Bada$$, Lamb$, The Sauce Twinz, Father, LE$, and Fredo Santana. “The record is a sinister and visceral portrait of Houston street life,” said Pitchfork in their review, while Passion of the Weiss named it their Album of the Month in March.

With an unmistakable persona, Maxo Kream is rising to become one of hip-hop’s most innovative new voices. “Maxo Kream has established himself as one of Houston’s most exciting young rappers by way of being one of Houston’s least traditionally minded artists,” stated Noisey in their premiere of #MAXO187. “This tape is a perfect encapsulation of the sound of hip-hop’s rapid synthesis of styles in the Internet era and the way the genre’s new underground heroes are bridging aesthetic and regional gaps,” Noisey said, adding, “more importantly, it is also fucking cool.”

Watch “Cell Boomin” ft. Father: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=feFKeFMUS60

Check out the MissInfo premiere: http://www.missinfo.tv/index.php/maxo-kream-cell-boomin-video/

Listen to #MAXO187: https://soundcloud.com/maxo-kream/sets/maxo-187

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Maxo Kream.

Maxo Kream Background:

Upon meeting him, gangsta rapper isn’t the impression that most would get from buzzing Houston emcee, Maxo Kream, age 23. He has a surprisingly goofy and playful demeanor, often cracking self-aware jokes and displaying a smile with showcases either his gold grin or his trademark gap in the upper row of this teeth. But, make no mistake, Maxo’s backstory is a tale consisting of crime and death that would catch the attention of the most jaded followers of gangsta/trap rap.

Inspired by his college trip to SXSW and the fact that other street cliques throughout Houston such as FDAB (founded by late rapper T.O.Y, a childhood friend and Crip associate of Maxo) and MashMode (which has now resulted in the buzzing careers of Houston rap duo, The Sauce Twinz) were transitioning into music as a form of expression, Maxo and his younger cousin Lyndon (rap moniker Lyndo C), jumped into music. Now, front and center is Maxo Kream’s sophomore project, #Maxo187. With big name features and outstanding production, Maxo intends to show that he can compete with any emcee in the game.

Stones Throw Emcee Guilty Simpson Joins Fellow Detroit Rapper MAHD For Celebratory Single

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MP3: MAHD – “G.M.W.A.M.N.” ft. Guilty Simpson

Following His 13 Album Release, the Detroit Rapper Drops Loosie Featuring Stones Throw Records Artist, Premiere via Nah Right

4.2.2015

Critical Praise for MAHD:

“…equipped with a rapid fire flow and a sharp delivery.” – DJBooth

“The up-and-coming Motor City MC makes a city known for it’s blight beam bright.” – The Smoking Section

“Like the city he hails from, MAHD’s work represents stark contrasts: grit and beauty, aggression and vulnerability.” – NYLON Magazine

The Song:

“Detroiters are lucky to be witnessing an emcee coming into his prime,” said the Detroit Metro Times of MAHD‘s album 13, which released earlier this month. Keeping his momentum going, the Rock City emcee teams up with fellow Detroit rapper Guilty Simpson for a loose single, “G.M.W.A.M.N.” The track premiered via Nah Right, who deemed it a “tough new joint from rising Detroit talent.”

MAHD and Guilty have no shortage of bars as they weave brusque rhymes through the shrieking strings and hollowed out vocal samples in the beat. “I initially met Guilty a long time ago just being around the Detroit music scene,” explained MAHD, adding, “Guilty is someone I’ve been listening to for years, he killed it and delivered some grown man rap like always.” With MAHD consistently proving himself to be one of Detroit’s most innovative voices, his 13 album received praise from the likes of HotNewHipHop, 2DopeBoyz, andAllHipHop. He followed the album release with an emotional visual for his single “Got Damn,” with2DopeBoyz noting that MAHD “showcases his lyrical prowess and storytelling talents as he shares a relatable tale of love and heartbreak.”

MAHD is all about staying true to his art-focusing on sharp lyrics and delivery, taking hip-hop back to its core. “I developed this belief after looking around and seeing people complacent with lives that I couldn’t picture myself living forever. I feel I have a purpose on this earth that can bring change through my words so that’s what I’m doing.” MAHD will be joining Black Milk‘s forthcoming Play Like Hell tour for the NYC, Philly, and D.C. dates.

Listen to “G.M.W.A.M.N.” ft. Guilty Simpson: https://soundcloud.com/iammahd/gettin-money-wit-all-my-niggas-ft-guilty-simpson/

Check out the Nah Right premiere: http://nahright.com/news/2015/04/01/mahd-ft-guilty-simpson-g-m-w-a-m-n/

Listen to 13: https://soundcloud.com/iammahd/sets/13a

Order 13 on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/13/id962862105

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MAHD Background:

Hailing from Detroit, the city’s newest artist MAHD is gaining momentum after releasing his first EP, MAHD ALMIGHTY. Previously, he released numerous songs and videos including “Lotus,” a cover of Jay-Z and Kanye West’s “Otis.” MAHD recently released videos for “HWPO,”“Foundation,” and “Red Lipstick,” from the MAHD ALMIGHTY EP. “Red Lipstick” has garnered positive attention from major music websites and online radio shows. MAHD has been featured on VIBE, 2dopeboyz, Kevin Nottingham, and other music publications. MAHD’s musical background stem from his talented family where he has learned the inner workings of the industry.

After writing and making songs the last several years for other musicians and himself, MAHD broke out with his single “Pretty Ladies.” The song dropped online to great reviews and the official video is featured on World Star Hip Hop. MAHD created another statement, releasing“Detroit’s Savior” in August 2013. In 2014, MAHD earned his first featured on SiriusXM’s Shade 45 radio station with the song “Godfather Favors.” MAHD is valued as a versatile artist, as witnessed by the release of MAHD ALMIGHTY and his latest music videos. MAHD often performs with his band, Fresh Londre, which includes two bass players, a saxophonist, keyboard player, and drummer. Be on the look out for MAHD’s debut album in the first quarter of 2015.

Animal-Loving Rapper Sir Michael Rocks Prepares For Final Tour After Landing Own Nature Show, The Rocks Report, On National Geographic Channel

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News: Sir Michael Rocks Quits Rap For National Geographic Reality Series

Animal-Loving Rapper Prepares For Final Tour After Landing Own Nature Show, The Rocks Report, On National Geographic Channel

04.01.2015

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 News:

Having earned a reputation as a wildlife advocate and lover of nature, it should come as no surprise that Sir Michael Rocks has announced his retirement from rap after landing his own reality series, The Rocks Report, on National Geographic. Upon moving to Miami in 2013, the Cool Kids rapper adopted a baby monkey, and a few months ago advised Buzzfeed of “13 Beasties That Would Make Great Besties.” Sir Michael Rocks also teamed up with PETA in their protests of SeaWorld, as MTV reported he “was serious about going to war for the whales.”

In the pilot episode of The Rocks Report, National Geographic follows Sir Michael Rocks as he navigates some of Florida’s most populated wildlife reserves. Venturing into a monkey jungle to “hang out with some of the locals,” Sir Michael Rocks asserts himself into the monkey hierarchy, getting up close and personal as he displays his expertise in handling. “I would just like to thank Nat Geo for helping create this experience,” Rocks expressed with full enthusiasm for a new chapter in his career. “As a long time animal lover and researcher I am honored to have an institution such as National Geographic believe in me and help push this portion of my career forward. This will be a fun ride and I can’t wait for the world to watch.”

Growing up as the youngest of three in his family outside of Chicago, Sir Michael Rocks developed a lifelong interest in the outdoors. Nature looms as an influence in his music, as Rocks infused the creativity, strength, and beauty he found in settings like the beach, the deep sea, and the woods into his art. Rocks’ 2014 album, Banco, saw a quick rise to the #1 spot on iTunes’ hip-hop charts, also reaching the top spot on Billboard‘s HeatSeekers chart. The album evokes Rocks’ wealth of creativity, passion, intellect, and style, all elements of his unmistakable persona soon to hit television screens.

Catch Sir Michael Rocks on his final tour, which starts on April 11 in Pensacola, Florida.

Watch a preview of The Rocks Report: https://youtu.be/rnlvMBWxIss

Banco: https://soundcloud.com/sirmichaelrocks/sets/sir-michael-rocks-banco_avclub // https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/banco/id890674144

Please contact Michelle or Rory if 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. His debut solo album, Banco, is available now.

Oakland via Panama Duo Celebrate One-Year Anniversary of El Negrito Dun Dun y Ricardo Release With Party Mixtape, Premiered by Okayplayer

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Mixtape: Los Rakas – Ricardo: The Raka Party Mix

Oakland via Panama Duo Celebrate One-Year Anniversary of El Negrito Dun Dun y Ricardo Release With Party Mixtape, Premiered by Okayplayer

3.31.2015

Critical Praise for Los Rakas:

“In a sea of mediocre reggaeton/rap artists who regurgitate lines over cheesy beats, Los Rakas are a glimmer of hope, proof that Latin rap can be sexy, funny, smart and deep.” – NPR

“As their music switched among hip-hop, reggaetón and dancehall beats, their fast rhymes proclaimed solidarity across the hemisphere.” – New York Times

“El Negrito Dun Dun y Ricardo is a triumph of Latino Pride and adventurous movimiento.” – Houston Press

“This Oakland, Calif., duo — rapping cousins Raka Rich and Raka Dun — prove that some of the most exciting dance music on the planet is still coursing through the Afro-Latin diaspora.” – Washington Post

“The Panamanian cousins, Raka Rich and Raka Dun, are the embodiment of the new millennial Latino MC—bilingual, genre-bending and, of course, lyrics for days.” – Latina Magazine

“I’ve never actually seen emcees tangle off of each other so slickly, without a miss or pause. The illusion of effortlessness is part of what makes some cool, and they generate inspiring mega-wattage the way most people barely wake up.” – Pop Matters

“It seems like with every album release, Los Rakas bring their Panamanian hip-hop to higher fame…I wouldn’t be surprised if they become the next Drake.” – Wandering Sound

The Mix:

Oakland by way of Panama duo Los Rakas, who were included in Billboard‘s up-and coming reggaetón artists to watch list, released their 22-minute mix, Ricardo: The Raka Party Mix, to celebrate the one-year anniversary of their debut album, El Negrito Dun Dun y Ricardo. The mix, which premiered via Okayplayer, presents an up-beat sound that can be put on repeat for an easy ride down the California coastline. Los Rakas adds a feel-good flavor to their remixes of a variety of hits like Everything But the Girl‘s “Missing” and Michael Jackson‘s “Remember the Time,” even adding UK house duo Gorgon City‘s “Ready For Your Love” featuring MNEK to the mix.

Ricardo: The Raka Party Mix opens with a dancehall banger, then transitions into a diverse range of Spanish and English tracks. The duo has been churning out a critically acclaimed fusion of hip-hop, dancehall, and folkloric-tinged bass since 2006, single-handedly moving the Latino hip-hop capital of the U.S. to the Bay Area. “As their music switched among hip-hop, reggaetón, and dancehall beats, their fast rhymes proclaimed solidarity across the hemisphere,” stated the New York Times, while NPR added that “it’s beautiful to remember what true love for music feels likes.” Along with El Negrito Dun Dun y Ricardo, which released on Universal Latino in 2014, Los Rakas released a cinematic three-part music video series about the immigrant experience in America based off their experience growing up in Oakland.

Known for their fresh mix of hip-hop, plena, reggae, and dancehall music with both Spanish and English lyricism, Los Rakas represents the cutting edge of Pan-American flows. The duo, who can be caught live at this year’s Coachella music festival, has set out to inspire fellow “Rakas” by empowering them to become successful despite their circumstances, turning the current Latin hip-hop world on its head. “‘Raka’ comes from the word ‘Rakataka’. They used that word to refer to people from the hood in Panama, but in a negative way,” Raka Dun explains. “We took the word and decided to make it positive…A ‘Raka’ can go to college and be a business man, you know.”

Listen to Ricardo: The Raka Party Mix: https://soundcloud.com/losrakas/ricardo-raka-party-mix

Check out the Okayplayer premiere: http://www.okayplayer.com/news/mixtape-monday-mateo-senolia-los-rakas-yesterday-new-quintet-stream.html/3

Buy El Nigrito Dun Dun y Ricardo on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/el-negrito-dun-dun-ricardo/id855726748

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Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Los Rakas.

Los Rakas Background:

Los Rakas is comprised of cousins Raka Rich and Raka Dun, pioneering Panamanians by way of the Bay Area on the frontier of a new Latin urban sound. Known for their fresh mix of hip-hop, plena, reggae and dancehall music with both Spanish and English lyricism, Los Rakas represents the cutting edge of Pan-American flows. Taking their name from the Panamanian word “Rakataka,” a negative slur used to describe someone from the ghetto, Los Rakas have set out to both inspire fellow “Rakas” by empowering them to become successful despite their circumstances, turning the current Latin hip-hop world on its head. In 2012, Los Rakas released their EP, Raka Love, touring nationally and internationally. Their debut album on Universal Latino, El Negrito Dun Dun y Ricardo, released in 2014.

Premiered by Mass Appeal, Oakland Trio Down 2 Earth Drop “Powers,” Prep CD & Vinyl Re-Release of Debut LP

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MP3: Down 2 Earth – “Powers” ft. Simmi (Prod. by Kuya Beats)

Premiered by Mass Appeal, Oakland Trio Down 2 Earth Teams Up With Simmi and Kuya Beats for Single Following Release of Debut LP, Wildfire

3.27.2015

The Song:

Following the February release of their debut LP, Wildfire, Oakland trio Down 2 Earth dropped their new track, “Powers,” via Mass Appeal, which features singer Simmi and production by Kuya Beats. Down 2 Earth, which consists of Iamsu!‘s DJ/rapper Azure, Clyde Shankle, and Dayvid Michael, apply the recognizable bass slaps that the Bay is known for, while taking a darker, gloomy approach than the typical function-ready affair. Wildfire debuted via Complex, who called it “a banger of a project… [that will] make you want to head over to the West Coast immediately.” The project features a strong Bay Area roster, including rising R&B singer Kehlani, Iamsu!, and fellow HBK Gang member Jay Ant. “Powers” drops amid Iamsu!’s Eyes On Me Tour which kicked off yesterday in Los Angeles with Azure handling DJ duties throughout the tour.

“’Powers’ was one of the last songs to come out of the Wildfire sessions. We recorded the song with Kuya Beats and an up and coming bay area songstress Simmi,” Down 2 Earth tells Mass Appeal. “We got together in what we dubbed ‘Kliff’s Cabin’ in Pinole, California, and started the record from scratch. We were thinking to ourselves, ‘this hook could use a female voice,’ but instead of singing we had Simmi chant. Once we decided to go in that direction, we knew the production had to be a bit mobby and aggressive. Usually it’s the opposite; we let the beat speak, then find a hook, then verses.”

Down 2 Earth’s goal is “to preserve Bay Area music, specifically alternative hip-hop that a handful of groups in the Bay Area started years ago.” Their music tells stories of regular people that speak on common problems, aspirations, and worldly questions that many have in their youth. Their focus on evolving the art of collaborative rap and establishing their artistry creates a fresh musical style all their own. Later this year, Down 2 Earth will be re-releasing Wildfire on CD and vinyl with several bonus tracks, including “Powers.” Physical issues of the project will be available at D2E3D.com.

Listen to “Powers” ft. Simmi (Prod. by Kuya Beats): https://soundcloud.com/down2earth/powers/s-6owON

Check out the Mass Appeal premiere: http://massappeal.com/premiere-down-2-earth-powers/

Listen to Wildfire: https://soundcloud.com/down2earth/sets/wildfire

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Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Down 2 Earth.

Down 2 Earth Background:

Down 2 Earth is a new trio hailing from Oakland, California, consisting of HBK Gang artist/producer Azure and CaliMade collective members Clyde Shankle and Dayvid Michael. The rap pack presents music reminiscent of the West Coast sounds by household names like Hieroglyphics and Zion I. Down 2 Earth’s goal is “to preserve Bay Area music, specifically alternative hip-hop that a handful of groups in the Bay Area started decades ago.” Having already received praise from the likes of The Source, Free On Smash, HipHopDX, and DJ Booth, the three emcees have the pedigree to make a giant splash in the hip-hop world with their debut LP, Wildfire, a coalition of three stories and personalities tied together by thumping beats and production.

From Radiohead to Parliament Funkadelic, Down 2 Earth takes influence from a diverse range of artists to vibe out soul-oriented tunes. De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest, Kendrick, Jill Scott, Hieroglyphics, and Digital Underground are among their biggest influences apparent in their work. Down 2 Earth is evolving the art of collaborative rap, establishing their artistry and making a fresh style all their own.

Following a Series of Single Releases, the 24 Year-Old Rapper Collaborates with RAW Records Artists to Drop Remix, Debuted via Complex

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MP3: Wasiu x Thomas White x Dear Lola – “I Know” (Remix)

Following a Series of Single Releases, the 24 Year-Old Rapper Collaborates with RAW Records Artists to Drop Remix, Debuted via Complex

3.26.2015

The Remix:

Montreal, long known as being a hot bed for indie rock is quickly being recognized for its recent rapid emergence of electronic and now, rap music. Nigerian and Haitian, Quebec-bred rapper Wasiu released his remix of RAW Records founders/artists Thomas White and Dear Lola‘s “I Know” after bubbling with a series of single releases, preparing for the drop of his album later this spring. The track, which premiered via Complex, is about lusting over a girl who is detrimental to your life. “She’s like a bad drug,” Wasiu explained, adding, “She interferes with the other aspects of your life, and you become obsessive over her. You’re not even in a relationship with her, but whenever she hits you up, you fall for that lust again and put everything else on hold.”

The original track released in February in Thomas White and Dear Lola’s collaborative EP and the duo recently brought out Wasiu to a live set for a performance of the remix. Wasiu fires over the glistening production, rapping, “Tried to get away but she wouldn’t leave my thoughts/ Always get they way ’cause they cage you with the box.” Wasiu previously released his “Gros Lysick” freestyle via HYPETRAK, paying homage to Notorious B.I.G. This followed the premiere of his single “Blkkkout,” which debuted via Okayplayer, who stated that “Waisu puts on a lesson in rising tension that many rappers twice his age would be wise to take notes on.” His first video single, “Physical,” was produced by Kaytranada and premiered via Noisey after the audio premiere with HotNewHipHop. With this momentum, Wasiu is helping place Montreal on the hip-hop map.

Wasiu is preparing his yet-to-be-titled debut album, which funnels his life experiences into a culturally defining opus that balances both optimistic and pessimistic perspectives on human themes. “Where I grew up made it so I’m able to understand things or view things from a lot of different perspectives,” says Wasiu, who raps with the dexterous singsong cadence of Mos Def and the cultural omniscience of Nas. “I’m showing what people view as both the good and the bad,” he says, “and how without the bad, you can’t have the good, and so you start to appreciate the bad… for the good.”

Listen to “I Know” (Remix): https://soundcloud.com/w-a-s-i-u/i-know-remix/s-0BIOt

Check out the Complex premiere: http://www.complex.com/music/2015/03/wasiu-new-song-premiere-i-know-remix-feat-thomas-white-dear-lola

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Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Wasiu.

Wasiu Background:

For Wasiu, being a pariah has always been a constant. A child of divorce from a Nigerian Muslim father and Haitian Protestant-Christian mother, he was torn between worlds, seen by both communities as impure, and a “mixed breed”—not entirely Haitian, not quite Nigerian. Even though he’s Québecois (a Québec native), his immigrant parents tainted his claim to the province. Raised by his mother after his father moved to Toronto, he felt obliged to fit in with her side of the family. Resentments towards his father’s beliefs and culture led him to drop his father-given middle name—Wasiu—so that he wouldn’t be teased in his predominantly white school, where he battled black stereotypes by pushing his intellect past expectations.

”I wanted to fit in and didn’t want to feel like a stereotype, so I’d force myself to excel but make it seem like it was no sweat,” he says, “In a sense, I was assimilating myself to white Christian standards, and dropped my middle name to evade humiliation. That same name now is the one I use to represent myself, and it empowers my blackness due to its African origins.”

Overcoming adversity and using those lessons as lyrical fuel is Wasiu’s strongest suit. He is preparing his debut album which funnels his life experiences into a culturally defining opus that balances both optimistic and pessimistic perspectives on human themes. “I’m showing what people view as both the good and the bad,” he says, “and how without the bad, you can’t have the good, and so you start to appreciate the bad… for the good.”

Following the Release of His Album, The Wake Up, Jahzel and His Team Prep For Hometown Show In the Fifth Episode of Their Webisode Series, Presented by HipHopDX

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Webisode: Jahzel & The Black Key Collective – The Collective: Episode 5

Following the Release of His Album, The Wake Up, Jahzel and His Team Prep For Hometown Show In the Fifth Episode of Their Webisode Series, Presented by HipHopDX

3.24.2015

Critical Praise for Jahzel:

“Jahzel’s first impression is a solid one.” – The Smoking Section

“This is music with few hang-ups…perfect for a summer hip-hop playlist.” – PrefixMag

“Jahzel’s future brightens with every new release… we’re excited to hear more.” – HotNewHipHop

The Webisode:

Despite hitting a rough patch parting ways with one of their co-managers, Chicago-bred rapper Jahzel and his Black Key Collective team continue work with plans for an epic hometown show in episode five of their six-part webisode series. Presented by HipHopDX, the captivating series follows Jahzel’s crew from budgeting, team-building, scheduling, and traveling, just to name a few of the tasks that come into play while managing an independent record label. In this episode, the rapper returns home from a New York City press run to more interviews and tasks, keeping the momentum rolling after the release of his album,The Wake Up. Now a two-man team, Jahzel and manager Navarro seek a venue for a hometown performance, which Jahzel rehearses for with a live band and predicts to be one of the year’s biggest local events.

In the previous episode we tracked Jahzel’s two-day run in the Big Apple, from freestyling for DJBooth TV’s RapBox to hosting a media dinner with notable music industry insiders. Jahzel also paid a visit to Viacom studios, where he delivered a presentation to MTV and VH1 staffers, playing his album and pitching music videos for rotation on the networks.

Whether he’s going on press runs or working on new music, Jahzel never fails to be on his hustle like a true Chicagoan. His album, The Wake Up, debuted via HotNewHipHop, who raved “Jahzel’s future brightens with every new release… we’re excited to hear more.” In his recent interview with AllHipHop, Jahzel spoke on anticipation for his upcoming EP and his current state as a musical artist, expressing the drive that’s keeping his career on the move. “I’m not waiting on nobody no more,” Jahzel stated, “I don’t care what anybody thinks; I have to go get it.”

Watch Jahzel & the Black Key Collective’s The Collective, Episode 5: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECJah-ZKHBc

Check out HipHopDX’s premiere: http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/videos/id.19475/title.jahzel-the-black-key-collective-present-the-collective-webisode-ep-5

Listen to The Wake Up: https://soundcloud.com/jahzelmusic/sets/the-wake-up

Purchase The Wake Up on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/the-wake-up/id959982460?ls=1

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Jahzel – The Wake Up, tracklist:
1.Wake Up!
2.Who Is You?!
3.John Stockton / Radio Raheem
4.The Vision
5.Trapt
6.Crazy
7.Seedlings
8.No Tears No Tissue
9.Scriptures
10.Faithful

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Jahzel.

Jahzel Background:

Only a true Chicagoan can fully understand the city’s hustle mentality – simultaneously holding down multiple jobs while going to school, taking care of our families, and being active in our communities, all while pursuing our dreams and goals. It’s the Chicago way. Chicago-born musician Jahzel, eats, sleeps, and breaths that mentality: “We [Chicagoans} are hustlers in general; we get it done,” he says proudly. “I am telling the story about Chicago that hasn’t been told – that along with the bad things that are happening, there are plenty of positive things going on. This is the real story of Chicago and I think people can relate to it.” Jahzel has always been a proud Chicagoan, and his most recent project, The Wake Up, is an ode to the city he holds dear.

New Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 172 Features Maxo Kream, Montana of 300, Tommy Brown, MAHD, and Ikey

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Podcast: Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 172

New Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 172 Features Maxo Kream, Montana of 300, Tommy Brown, MAHD, and Ikey

3.23.2015

The Podcast:

Kicking off Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 172 is prolific Chicago rapper Montana of 300 (no relation to Chief Keef) with his remix of “Trap Queen,” which features singer Jalyn Sanders. Often referred to as “Rap God,” Montana of 300 got his start back in 2008 when he named himself after the movie 300, adopting the movie’s underlying motif “No surrender, no retreat” as his own anthem. The “Trap Queen” remix has Montana of 300 flexing his ceaseless energy as he effortlessly raps about sticking with the real ones, getting hype with his crew, and his life as an MC. Next up is Maryland by way of Nigeria by way of Harlem rapper Ikey with his soulful single, “Lord,” featuring SaveMoney‘s Kami de Chukwu. “Ikey stays soulful as he stunts,” explained Okayplayer in their premiere, “dropping high-syllable-traffic verses that show thanks for fine things like crisp clothes, sunshine and a beautiful woman.” Third on the podcast is multi-platinum producer Tommy Brown with “Trippin’ On Me,” which features Eric Bellinger and Travi$ Scott. Tommy remains behind the boards and also steps to the mic on his contagious debut single, which was premiered by The FADER. We follow the banger with “Cant Believe/Road Trip” by Detroit emcee MAHD. The single, off his 13 concept album, finds MAHD delving into a personal and emotional story, starting in the middle of an argument, telling how and why things have gone bad and how he can’t believe he’s finding himself in the situation he’s in. We conclude the podcast with the trap-inspired “Cell Boomin,” Maxo Kream’s ode to hustling-by-phone. “Cell Boomin,” the latest single off #MAXO187, features Awful Records’ Father and production from Wxlf Gxd. “Maxo Kream has established himself as one of Houston’s most exciting young rappers by way of being one of Houston’s least traditionally minded artists,” states Noisey in their premiere of #MAXO187. “This tape is a perfect encapsulation of the sound of hip-hop’s rapid synthesis…the genre’s new underground heroes are bridging aesthetic and regional gaps,” Noisey says, adding, “more importantly, it is also fucking cool.”

Listen to Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 172: https://soundcloud.com/audibletreats/hip-hop-podcast-172

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Links:

Subscribe to the Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcasts:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/audible-treats-hip-hop-podcast/id111088410?mt=2

Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 172 – Montana of 300, Ikey, Tommy Brown, MAHD, and Maxo Kream:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-172/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2
https://soundcloud.com/audibletreats/hip-hop-podcast-172

Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 171 – Bobby Brackins, A-1, Opio x Free the Robots, Iamsu!, and Wasiu:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-171/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2
https://soundcloud.com/audibletreats/audible-treats-hip-hop-podcast-171

Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 170 – Zion I, MAHD, Ikey, Rey Resurreccion, and ZRO FOX:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-170/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2
https://soundcloud.com/audibletreats/audible-treats-hip-hop-podcast-170

Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 169 – (Best Hip-Hop of 2014):
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/audible-treats-hip-hop-podcast/id111088410?mt=2#
https://soundcloud.com/audibletreats/sets/audible-treats-the-best-of-hip

Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 168 – C-Money, Marc E. Bassy, Jahzel, Chris Miles, and Lyrics Born:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-168/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2
https://soundcloud.com/audibletreats/audible-treats-hip-hop-podcast-168

END

03.19.2015
Premiered By HipHopDX, Detroit Rapper MAHD Shares A Visual For “Got Damn,” From His Concept Album 13

Press Release

Premiered By HipHopDX, Detroit Rapper MAHD Shares A Visual For “Got Damn,” From His Concept Album 13

Go to Post

Video: MAHD – “Got Damn”

Following His Album Release, the Detroit Rapper Shares a Visual Telling the Story of His Break-Up, Premiered By HipHopDX

3.19.2015

Critical Praise for MAHD:

“…equipped with a rapid fire flow and a sharp delivery.” – DJBooth

“The up-and-coming Motor City MC makes a city known for it’s blight beam bright.” – The Smoking Section

“Like the city he hails from, MAHD’s work represents stark contrasts: grit and beauty, aggression and vulnerability.” – NYLON Magazine

The Video:

“Detroiters are lucky to be witnessing an emcee coming into his prime here,” said the Metro Times in their review of rapper MAHD‘s album 13, which released earlier this month via HotNewHipHop. The album tells the story of a relationship gone sour that led to MAHD leaving his home on a soul searching mission that eventually leads him back to Detroit. In the video for one of the albums opening cuts, “Got Damn,” which premiered via HipHopDX, MAHD is seen meeting his now ex girlfriend in 2005. “First date said we hit it off proper,” he raps, as the video transition to a few years later, when MAHD is “thinking she’s the one.” But things take a turn to the detriment of their relationship when MAHD begins talking with other women.

“It was ‘got damn’ when I met her, ‘got damn’ when it was going good, and ‘got damn’ when I started messing up,” MAHD says. Seated beside himself at a church pew, MAHD’s good and bad angels butt heads as the video concludes, and in the context of the album leads into “Can’t Believe,” which is where roles reverse and MAHD is shocked to find his girlfriend drifting away from their relationship, ultimately leading to their split and MAHD leaving town.

MAHD is all about staying true to his art-focusing on sharp lyrics and delivery, taking hip-hop back to its core. His clever, gritty style has him on our radars as one of Detroit’s most innovative voices. “I developed this belief after looking around and seeing people complacent with lives that I couldn’t picture myself living forever. I feel I have a purpose on this earth that can bring change through my words so that’s what I’m doing.” MAHD will be joining Black Milk’s forthcoming Play Like Hell tour for the NYC, Philly, and D.C. dates.

Watch “Got Damn”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y_0RrylfkPw

Check out the HipHopDX premiere: http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/videos/id.19429/title.mahd-got-damn

Listen to 13: https://soundcloud.com/iammahd/sets/13a

Order 13 on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/13/id962862105

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MAHD Background:

Links:

“Got Damn”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y_0RrylfkPw

13: https://soundcloud.com/iammahd/sets/13a

“Can’t Believe/Road Trip”: https://soundcloud.com/iammahd/cant-believeroad-trip-prod-original-foreign-mister-crowe

“Spaz City”: https://soundcloud.com/iammahd/spaz-city-prod-yolagang/s-UmCZL

“Rap Better”: https://soundcloud.com/iammahd/rap-better-prod-original-foreign/

“Out”: https://soundcloud.com/iammahd/out

“Raptizm”: https://soundcloud.com/iammahd/raptizm-prod-jeff-gore/s-n6W6m

“Raw Shit”: https://soundcloud.com/iammahd/raw-sh-t

Bio, photos, and more music from MAHD: http://www.audibletreats.com/mahd/

END

3/19 Dallas at Three Links
3/20 Austin at SXSW
3/22 New Orleans at Gasa Gasa
3/23 Atlanta at The Basement
3/24 Charlotte at Snug Harbor
3/25 Asheville at Asheville Music Hall
3/26 Little Rock at Stickyz
3/28 Boise at Knitting Factory (Treefort Music Fest)
3/30 Denver at Cervantes’ Other Side (w Fashawn)
4/03 Las Vegas at Beauty Bar
4/04 Fresno at Catacomb Party
4/09 Albuquerque at El Rey Theater (w @Yasiin Bey aka Mos Def)
4/10 Los Angeles at Los Globos
4/11 San Francisco at Brick & Mortar Music Hall
4/12 Sacramento at Harlow’s
4/14 Salt Lake City at Urban Lounge
4/16 Portland at Alhambra Theatre (Soul’d Out Music Festival)
6/16 Washington, DC at DC9
6/17 Philadelphia at Johnny Brenda’s
6/18 New York at The Studio at Webster Hall
6/20 Detroit at TBA
6/21 Chicago at Subterranean
6/22 Minneapolis at 7th St Entry
6/24 Missoula at Urban Lounge
6/25 Calgary at Sled Island Festival
6/27 Vancouver at Fortune Sound Club
6/28 Seattle at Nectar Lounge

Stream and purchase digital and physical versions of If There’s A Hell Below: https://blackmilk.bandcamp.com/album/if-theres-a-hell-below

Purchase the album on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/if-theres-a-hell-below/id917026740

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Black Milk.

Black Milk Background:

As one of the most celebrated producers and rappers of his generation of hip-hop artists, Black Milk has conditioned fans and critics to expect the unexpected with each release. Few producers have earned the notoriety and respect he has as a musician, and when that is coupled with commanding talent as an emcee, it’s no surprise that his solo releases are met with exalted anticipation. His new full-length album, If There’s A Hell Below, continues Black’s trend of releasing material that maintains his signature sound while pushing it into new territory.

With more than a decade of industry experience and a rich catalog of recordings, Black Milk has transitioned from one of hip-hop’s young rising stars to a veteran with a uniquely well-rounded pedigree. After scoring his first production credit for Slum Village as a teenager in 2002, he eventually worked closely with the group and co-produced much of their two following albums. His self-released, full-length project Sound of the City (2005) led to his first record deal, and he began to gain international attention for the soul-sample driven style on his proper solo debut Popular Demand (2007). With five solo rap albums (Popular Demand, Tronic, Album of the Year, No Poison No Paradise and Glitches In The Break), an instrumental album (Synth or Soul), numerous collaboration albums (Caltroit with Bishop Lamont, The Set Up with Fat Ray, Black and Brown with Danny Brown, Random Axe with Sean Price and Guilty Simpson and Burning Stones with Mel), and 2 singles with Jack White behind him, Black Milk remains one of hip-hop’s most consistent artists.

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | youtube | soundcloud | bandcamp

“I Guess”: https://soundcloud.com/blackmilkofficial/i-guess/

“What It’s Worth”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SL5G-Kal7FQ

If There’s A Hell Below: https://blackmilk.bandcamp.com/album/if-theres-a-hell-below

“Scum” ft. Random Axe: https://soundcloud.com/blackmilkofficial/scum-ft-random-axe

“Gold Piece” ft. Bun B: https://soundcloud.com/blackmilkofficial/gold-piece-ft-bun-b/

“Detroit’s New Dance Show”: https://soundcloud.com/blackmilkofficial/detroits-new-dance-show

“What It’s Worth”: https://soundcloud.com/blackmilkofficial/what-its-worth

No Poison No Paradise stream: http://blackmilk.bandcamp.com/

Bio, pictures and streams available here: http://www.audibletreats.com/black-milk

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03.18.2015

Premiered by Complex, Black Milk Releases “I Guess,” Begins Play Like Hell Tour This Week

Press Release

Premiered by Complex, Black Milk Releases “I Guess,” Begins Play Like Hell Tour This Week

Go to Post

MP3: Black Milk – “I Guess”

Joined By His Live Band Nat Turner, the Producer/Rapper Shares a Loose Single As His Play Like Hell Tour Kicks Off

03.18.2015

Critical Praise for Black Milk:

“Black Milk’s solo career represents a constant cycle of adopting and mastering new production styles and then abandoning them before they become crutches.” – Pitchfork

“His samples are elegant, his rhythms challenging and his drum kits tight.” – NPR

“Cross has no need for these extras; in his world of soul-tugging productions and machinegun-as-velvet delivery they are merely distractions. On this realization, and in the moment, it was hard not be floored by the obvious: this is what talent with genuine poise really looks and sounds like.” – Dallas Observer

“Striking an impressive balance between being rehearsed and spontaneous, he proved his chops as a multitalented artist once again.” – Okayplayer

“It feels like Christmas every time Black Milk blesses us with a new record.” – FreeOnSmash

The Song:

In anticipation of his Play Like Hell Tour that kicks off in Dallas tomorrow, rapper/producer Black Milk shares a loose single, “I Guess.” Premiered by Complex, “I Guess” is a lyrical onslaught from the critically-acclaimed, Detroit-bred artist, who flips multi-layered samples with oscillating percussion that rattles as horns unwittingly come into consciousness as the song progresses. Following production credits on new albums from Cannibal Ox and Oddisee‘s Diamond District crew, “I Guess” is first single from Black since his If There’s A Hell Below album dropped last October. The U.S. leg of Black Milk’s Play Like Hell Tour will be hitting 27 cities this spring and summer. The tour, which features live band Nat Turner (keyboardist/vocalist Aaron “Ab” Abernathy, bassist Malik Hunter and drummer Z Horton), stops in multiple U.S. cities. Select shows will include performances by Yasiin Bey fka Mos Def, Fashawn and Lyrics Born.

With more than a decade of industry experience and a rich catalog of recordings, Black Milk has transitioned from one of hip-hop’s young rising stars to a veteran with a uniquely well-rounded pedigree. His most recent works include collaborations with Bun B, Danny Brown, Black Thought, Robert Glasper, Adrian Younge, Pete Rock, BadBadNotGood, and Blu. He released his fifth and latest solo album, If There’s A Hell Below in October 2014 via his own record label Computer Ugly. “I’m never one to say which album of mine is the best, that’s for the fans to decide,” says Black Milk, “but at this point I feel like I’m making the best music of my career on a creative level and on a technical level. I think you’ll hear that in this new album.” Black will perform songs from If There’s a Hell Below and previous albums.

Listen to “I Guess”: https://soundcloud.com/blackmilkofficial/i-guess/

Read the Complex premiere: http://www.complex.com/music/2015/03/black-milk-new-song-premiere-i-guess

Black Milk “Play Like Hell Tour” with live band Nat Turner

Tickets: blackmilk.biz/tours

3/19 Dallas at Three Links
3/20 Austin at SXSW
3/22 New Orleans at Gasa Gasa
3/23 Atlanta at The Basement
3/24 Charlotte at Snug Harbor
3/25 Asheville at Asheville Music Hall
3/26 Little Rock at Stickyz
3/28 Boise at Knitting Factory (Treefort Music Fest)
3/30 Denver at Cervantes’ Other Side (w Fashawn)
4/03 Las Vegas at Beauty Bar
4/04 Fresno at Catacomb Party
4/09 Albuquerque at El Rey Theater (w @Yasiin Bey aka Mos Def)
4/10 Los Angeles at Los Globos
4/11 San Francisco at Brick & Mortar Music Hall
4/12 Sacramento at Harlow’s
4/14 Salt Lake City at Urban Lounge
4/16 Portland at Alhambra Theatre (Soul’d Out Music Festival)
6/16 Washington, DC at DC9
6/17 Philadelphia at Johnny Brenda’s
6/18 New York at The Studio at Webster Hall
6/20 Detroit at TBA
6/21 Chicago at Subterranean
6/22 Minneapolis at 7th St Entry
6/24 Missoula at Urban Lounge
6/25 Calgary at Sled Island Festival
6/27 Vancouver at Fortune Sound Club
6/28 Seattle at Nectar Lounge

Stream and purchase digital and physical versions of If There’s A Hell Below: https://blackmilk.bandcamp.com/album/if-theres-a-hell-below

Purchase the album on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/if-theres-a-hell-below/id917026740

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Black Milk.

Black Milk Background:

As one of the most celebrated producers and rappers of his generation of hip-hop artists, Black Milk has conditioned fans and critics to expect the unexpected with each release. Few producers have earned the notoriety and respect he has as a musician, and when that is coupled with commanding talent as an emcee, it’s no surprise that his solo releases are met with exalted anticipation. His new full-length album, If There’s A Hell Below, continues Black’s trend of releasing material that maintains his signature sound while pushing it into new territory.

With more than a decade of industry experience and a rich catalog of recordings, Black Milk has transitioned from one of hip-hop’s young rising stars to a veteran with a uniquely well-rounded pedigree. After scoring his first production credit for Slum Village as a teenager in 2002, he eventually worked closely with the group and co-produced much of their two following albums. His self-released, full-length project Sound of the City (2005) led to his first record deal, and he began to gain international attention for the soul-sample driven style on his proper solo debut Popular Demand (2007). With five solo rap albums (Popular Demand, Tronic, Album of the Year, No Poison No Paradise and Glitches In The Break), an instrumental album (Synth or Soul), numerous collaboration albums (Caltroit with Bishop Lamont, The Set Up with Fat Ray, Black and Brown with Danny Brown, Random Axe with Sean Price and Guilty Simpson and Burning Stones with Mel), and 2 singles with Jack White behind him, Black Milk remains one of hip-hop’s most consistent artists.

Links:

“I Guess”: https://soundcloud.com/blackmilkofficial/i-guess/

“What It’s Worth”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SL5G-Kal7FQ

If There’s A Hell Below: https://blackmilk.bandcamp.com/album/if-theres-a-hell-below

“Scum” ft. Random Axe: https://soundcloud.com/blackmilkofficial/scum-ft-random-axe

“Gold Piece” ft. Bun B: https://soundcloud.com/blackmilkofficial/gold-piece-ft-bun-b/

“Detroit’s New Dance Show”: https://soundcloud.com/blackmilkofficial/detroits-new-dance-show

“What It’s Worth”: https://soundcloud.com/blackmilkofficial/what-its-worth

No Poison No Paradise stream: http://blackmilk.bandcamp.com/

Bio, pictures and streams available here: http://www.audibletreats.com/black-milk

END

03.18.2015

Taylor Gang Rapper Chevy Woods Suprises Fans With SXSW I Love Texas EP Release

Press Release

Taylor Gang Rapper Chevy Woods Suprises Fans With SXSW I Love Texas EP Release

Go to Post

EP: Chevy Woods – SXSW I Love Texas

The Taylor Gang Rapper Surprises Fans With a 5-Song EP Showing Appreciation for the Lone Star State

3.18.2015

The EP:

Kicking off SXSW by celebrating his appreciation for the Lone Star State, Taylor Gang rapper Chevy Woods surprised fans with the release of his five-song SXSW I Love Texas EP. Produced entirely by Ricky P, SXSW I Love Texas is a smooth offering from the Pittsburgh rapper. Sharing experiences and showing love for all things Texas, Chevy Woods raps about a friend being imprisoned in Fort Worth, his adoration of bad girls from San Antonio, stories of mobbing with his crew through the southern state. “This EP is what I would wanna hear in my ride if I lived here,” Chevy Woods states as he preps to perform at several SXSW showcases. “Salute to all the pioneers from Texas!”

Chevy Woods’ SXSW I Love Texas EP follows his DJ Holiday-hosted Gangland 3 mixtape, which released in January and included features from Taylor Gang cohorts Wiz Khalifa, Juicy J, and Ty Dolla $ign, in addition to production from Zaytoven and Sonny Digital. Earlier this month, Woods shared the video for “Gold Chainz Gold Daytons,” which was the latest in a series of video releases from the Gangland 3 mixtape, which also includes WorldStarHipHop-debuted visuals for “Shooters” and “In the Kitchen.”

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.”

Listen to SXSW I Love Texas: http://taylorgangent.com/premiere-chevy-woods-sxsw-i-love-texas-ep/

Listen to SXSW I Love Texas on SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/chevywoods/sets/sxsw-i-love-texas

Chevy Woods showcases during SXSW:

March 18 – The Roosevelt Room, 11:45-12:05AM
March 20 – Monster Energy Outbreak House, 10:15-10:45PM
March 21 – Half Step, 12:00-12:20AM

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Chevy Woods.

Chevy Woods Background:

Links:

official site | facebook | twitter | instagram | soundcloud

SXSW I Love Texas: https://soundcloud.com/chevywoods/sets/sxsw-i-love-texas

“Gold Chainz Gold Daytons”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QlFDgFrgnYw

“Shooters”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YifombqxmZg

“In the Kitchen”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2GW3g_AcoHk

“30 Deep”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L295wjrfTqw

Gangland 3: http://chevywoodsmusic.com/chevy-woods-new-mixtape-gangland-3-is-out-now/

END

03.18.2015

Premiered By GoodMusicAllDay, In the Latest Visual From His Birth Of Cool EP, the Youthful MC Shares His Journey As a Determined Independent Artist Chasing His Dreams

Press Release

Premiered By GoodMusicAllDay, In the Latest Visual From His Birth Of Cool EP, the Youthful MC Shares His Journey As a Determined Independent Artist Chasing His Dreams

Go to Post

Video: Chris Miles – “Something”

Premiered By GoodMusicAllDay, In the Latest Visual From His Birth Of Cool EP, the Youthful MC Shares His Journey As a Determined Independent Artist Chasing His Dreams

3.18.2015

The Video:

Nothing is going to stop Chris Miles. In an inspiring visual for his single “Something,” the Long Island rapper declares that he has a thing or two to prove despite being at the tender age of 15. From hustling mixtapes on the streets as an independent artist and getting recognized by industry names like Mac Miller, 50 Cent, and Chris Brown, to taking meetings with major labels, the eager MC is making his way forward. The video premiered via GoodMusicAllDay, who stated, “what is most impressive about Miles is the maturity in his voice and his ability to craft clever metaphors at such a young age… Miles is certainly on the right route to becoming a star in the music biz. It’s dope to see an artist this early in his career with so much promise.”

The Jake One-produced track is the latest single from Chris Miles’ Birth Of Cool EP, which released in December. Miles, who was recently selected as the host of Warner Music Group‘s channel on Snapchat‘s Discover feature, sets his own priorities as a young artist, choosing to write raps instead of doing his geometry homework in the video for “Something.” “Tryna show the youth that you create your own momentum,” Chris Miles raps in the first verse, adding in the second verse that “I been grinding all night, Jesus Christ, how much time do I gotta spend with a pen to take flight/ Don’t wanna be a sensation that barely lasts a damn night, so I gotta figure out a plan to make this shit right (write).”

With this momentum, Chris Miles is just getting started. At the young age of 10 years old, Miles began to write and record raps in his bedroom that were inspired by his struggles with being bullied in school. Since then, he’s built up his fan base by releasing viral music videos along with two full length, all original mixtapes. The MC, one of the youngest artists to sign a major publishing deal with Warner/Chappell, is known for displaying a level of lyricism beyond his years as he’s been praised by the likes of Chris Brown, 50 Cent, Hit Boy, Tony Yayo, and more. With his talent moving into the spotlight, Chris Miles will also be performing on select dates of Iamsu!‘s Eyes On Me tour along with Rome Fortune.

Watch “Something”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_5MjnT3_2ng

Check out the GoodMusicAllDay premiere: http://gmad.us/blog/2015/3/16/chris-miles-something-video

The Birth of Cool: https://soundcloud.com/chrismilesmusic/sets/birth-of-cool

Catch Chris Miles on Iamsu!’s Eyes On Me Tour:

4/20 – Pittsburgh, PA – Altar Bar
4/21 – Philadelphia, PA – Barbary
4/23 – Boston, MA – Brighton Music Hall
4/24 – New York, NY – Webster Hall (Marlin Room)
4/25 – Baltimore, MD – Soundstage

Contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Chris Miles.

Chris Miles Background:

Chris Miles is a 15 year-old rap artist and songwriter from Long Island, New York. At the young age of 10 years old, Miles began to write and record raps in his bedroom that were inspired by his struggles with being bullied in school. After a few years of honing his skills and using rap as a coping method, he decided to start posting videos of himself rapping on YouTube, which is where he was discovered by T3 Music Group. After a few short weeks of working with T3, one of Miles’ videos managed to get posted by World Star Hip Hop where it garnered over 1.3 million views in just three days. This instantly caught the eye of many figures in the industry and Miles was immediately looked at as one of the next big things in music. Over the past two years, T3 and Miles have worked to build a fan base by releasing countless viral and original music videos along with two full length, all original mixtapes. Today, Miles is currently performing shows throughout the tri-state area after the release of his first EP, Birth of Cool.

Links:

facebook | youtube | twitter | soundcloud | instagram

“Something”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_5MjnT3_2ng

“Conversations”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPzGWqmiDx8

“Time”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NwPX7IwZHZY

“Knew That”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lKMK39OaHSQ

Birth of Cool: http://www.datpiff.com/Chris-Miles-Birth-Of-Cool-mixtape.657745.html

Bio, pics, and more here: http://www.audibletreats.com/chris-miles/

END

03.18.2015

Premiered by Pigeons & Planes, the Maryland via Lagos Rapper Brings Forth Nigerian Roots in Menacing Visual

Press Release

Premiered by Pigeons & Planes, the Maryland via Lagos Rapper Brings Forth Nigerian Roots in Menacing Visual

Go to Post

Video: Ikey – “When We Were Kings”

Preparing For the March 31 Release of His Green Card EP, the Nigerian-American Artist Reflects On Past Leaders In His Latest Visual, Premiered By Pigeons & Planes

3.18.2015

Critical Praise for Ikey:

“His delivery is cool and calm with a bite… Ikey takes this shit to the next level.” – Pigeons & Planes

“…continuing to impress hip-hop fans all over the globe with his melodic and confident flow.” – Okayplayer

The Video:

Born in Spanish Harlem, raised in Lagos, Nigeria, and based in the D.C. area of Maryland, rapper Ikey invades an abandoned building in D.C. and shares his testament of cultural awareness in a commanding visual for his Blvck Rose-produced single “When We Were Kings.” The video, directed by Xavia Inniss and premiered via Pigeons & Planes, acknowledges prolific African political leaders like Patrice Lumumba, while intertwining clips of Nigerian Afrobeat artist/human rights activist Fela Kuti. “Ikey’s ‘When We Were Kings’ represents his culture lyrically and sonically,” stated Pigeons & Planes, “and now the video makes it complete, with striking visuals and escalating intensity.”

From the effects of the Nigerian Civil War to the current struggle with Boko Haram, Ikey’s rhymes teach as much as they entertain. “This was the last song written and recorded for the project,” Ikey says of “When We Were Kings.” “It was recorded about 6 months after we had completed the other tracks. I felt like the project was missing an unfiltered [and] raw view of Lagos. Boko Haram had just bombed Jos not long ago and I remember talking to my Mom on the phone and hearing that the power had gone out. I felt a mixture of sadness, anger and defiance knowing that Nigeria was almost the same as it was years ago when I lived there. I feel like this song takes you there.”

“My job as an artist is to always show my appreciation, represent our story properly and do whatever it takes to make sure we all achieve that American Dream,” Ikey told Okayafrica in an interview feature about his Nigerian roots and how his experiences have influenced his forthcoming project. Leading up to the release of his Green Card EP, which is slated to drop March 31st, Ikey has shared several singles and videos. Complex debuted his “Olodo” video, and stated “the stunning, cinematic video is a pretty inspirational feat for the up-and-coming artist.” Teaming up with SaveMoney rapper Kami de Chukwu on “Lord,” Okayplayer premiered the track, and shared praises, saying “Ikey stays soulful as he stunts, dropping high-syllable-traffic verses that show thanks for finer things,” adding that Ikey “is continuing to impress hip-hop fans all over the globe with his melodic and confident flow.”

Watch “When We Were Kings”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYWM789hKcM

Check out the Pigeons & Planes premiere: http://pigeonsandplanes.com/2015/03/video-premiere-ikey-when-we-were-kings/

Listen to “When We Were Kings”: https://soundcloud.com/any-means-necessary/when-we-were-kings/

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Ikey.

Ikey Background:

For Ikey, it’s all about the story. Born in New York, with roots in both Spanish Harlem and Lagos, Nigeria, Ike Obioha connected with music at an early age. The diverse palette of his father’s music collection painted a musical canvas that pays homage to everything from Elton John and Journey to the Neville Brothers and Igbo Nigerian highlife singer Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe.

Ikey’s unique, 1.5 generation immigrant experience influenced both the subject matter and creation of his music. Despite pressure to embark upon a more scholarly career, Ikey would ultimately find himself opening for the likes of Big Sean and have his music covered in the Washington City Paper. He balances his penchant for music representing all aspects of the human experience over tracks representative of hip-hop’s golden era while maintaining his unique Nigerian-American identity. “I’m just a young kid straight out of Lagos,” Ikey says. “When I see people like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie being sampled on Beyonce records, it makes me feel people want that true African story. I just feel there are a lot of Nigerian-Americans trying to tell that story, and I’m trying to tell it the right way.”

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | youtube

“When We Were Kings”: https://soundcloud.com/any-means-necessary/when-we-were-kings/ // https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYWM789hKcM

“Lord” (ft. Kami de Chukwu): https://soundcloud.com/any-means-necessary/lord-feat-kami-de-chukwu/

“Timbuktu”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5TScKTDWl8g

“Olodo”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GEBszOh9hb0

Bio, photos, and more info on Ikey: http://audibletreats.com/ikey

END

03.17.2015

Audible Treats’ SXSW 2015 Roll-Call

Press Release

Audible Treats’ SXSW 2015 Roll-Call

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Audible Treats’ SXSW 2015 Roll-Call

Black Milk, Iamsu!, Maxo Kream, and more

3.17.15

The News:

Here’s our easy-to-read list of AT artists heading down to Texas. Come hang with us.

Tuesday, March 17th

5:00-5:15pm – ProbCause at Austin Convention Center, 500 E Cesar Chavez St

Wednesday, March 18th

10:30pm – The Outfit at Palm Door on Sixth, 508 E 6th St
11:05pm-11:25pm – Maxo Kream at Palm Door on Sixth Patio, 508 3 6th St

Thursday, March 19th

TBD – Maxo Kream at 615 Cardinal Lane
5:20pm – Iamsu! at Club Vongos, 6700 Middle Fiskville Rd
5:30pm – Wara From the NBHD at Smokers Club House
8:00pm-8:30pm – Sir Michael Rocks at Gypsy Lounge, 1504 E 6th St
8:00pm-2:00am – Marc E. Bassy at Speakeasy Kabaret, 412 N Congress Ave
9:00pm – Opio x Free the Robots at El Mercado, 1302 South 1st St
9:15pm-9:30pm – Bobby Brackins at The Roosevelt Room, 307 W 5th St
9:45pm-10:20pm – ProbCause at Licha’s Cantina, 1306 E 6th St
11:30pm – Iamsu! at Bar 96, 96 Rainey Street
12:00am-1:00am – ProbCause at Krave Upstairs, 302 E 6th St
12:30am – Sir Michael Rocks at Blackheart, 86 Rainey St.
1:30am-1:50am – Sir Michael Rocks at V Lounge, 409 Colorado St

Friday, March 20th

11:00am – Iamsu!
2:30pm – Black Milk with Live Band Nat Turner at Wonderland, 1104 E 6th St
2:40pm – Opio x Free the Robots at 219 West, 612 W 6th St
4:30pm – Opio x Free the Robots Flamingo Cantina, 515 E 6th St
5:00pm – Black Milk with Live Band Nat Turner at Lit Lounge, 215 E 6th St
6:45pm – Opio x Free the Robots at 301 Chicon St Unit G
8:00pm-2:00am – Marc E. Bassy at Highland Lounge, 404 Colorado St
9:00pm – Sudie at 219 West, 612 W 6th St
1:00am – Black Milk With Live Band Nat Turner at Maggie Mae’s Gibson Room
1:10am-1:50am – Opio x Free the Robots at Holy Mountain, 617 E 7th St

Saturday, March 21st

4:00pm – Sudie at Shiner’s Saloon, 422 N Congress Ave
8:00pm – Iamsu! at ACL Live, Moody Theatre
10:00pm – Wara From the NBHD at Container Bar, 90 Rainey Street
10:30pm – The Outfit at The Mohawk, 912 Red River St
(RSVP: https://www.facebook.com/events/820736534665109/)
10:30pm – The Outfit at Palm Door on Sixth, 508 E 6th St
11:20pm – Wara From the NBHD at Palm Door, 6th St

Sunday, March 22nd

1:00am -Maxo Kream at 409 Colorado St
1:30am – Maxo Kream at Bat Door

ABOUT:

Black Milk

– Detroit rapper/producer released solo album If There’s A Hell Below in October via The New York Times
– Begins 30-date headlining “Play Like Hell” tour in March, including three SXSW shows on Thursday, 3/19
– Featured on NPR’s Microphone Check in January

Friday, March 20th
2:30pm – Grand Theft Zamboni SXSW Launch Party @ Wonderland, 1104 E 6th St
5:00pm – Artist Auditions Presents The Artist Lounge @ Lit Lounge, 215 E 6th St
1:00am – CD Baby Showcase @ Maggie Mae’s Gibson Room, 323 E 6th St

Bobby Brackins

– Grammy-nominated Oakland-bred rapper/songwriter whose “My Jam” single featuring Zendaya and Jeremih currently #1 on Billboard’s Emerging Artists chart
– “Hot Box” single featuring G-Eazy and Mila J over 4 million plays on Soundcloud, 1.5 million on YouTube
– Songwriting credits include Tinashe’s “2 On,” Chris Brown’s “Loyal,” Ray J’s “I Hit It First”

Thursday, March 19th
9:15-9:30pm – Southern Hospitality Showcase @ The Roosevelt Room, 307 W 5th St

Iamsu!

– Bay Area rapper/producer whose Eyes On Me mixtape released earlier in February via Billboard
– Has sold over 100,000 singles/albums and has performed on The Late Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and the Arsenio Hall Show
– The New York Times said, “…in his production and his concepts, Iamsu! is gifted with melody and also emotion.”
– Headlining first solo tour in 35 cities for “Eyes On Me Tour” that begins in March with openers Rome Fortune and fellow HBK Gang cohort Dave Steezy

Thursday, March 19th
5:20pm – Presented by Worldstar Hip Hop @ Club Vongos, 6700 Middle Fiskville Rd
11:30pm – Presented by Dr. Martens @ Bar 96, 96 Rainey Street

Friday, March 20th
11:00am – Presented by Rhapsody 12:00am – Presented by Tilly’s @ Clive Bar, 609 Davis Street

Saturday, March 21st

8:00pm – J Cole Show @ ACL Live, Moody Theatre

Marc E. Bassy

Thursday, March 19th

8:00pm-2:00am – The Blast Live @ Speakeasy Kabaret, 412 N Congress Ave

Friday, March 20th

8:00pm-2:00am – SXSW Showcase @ Highland Lounge, 404 Colorado St

Saturday, March 21st

8:00pm – Okayplayer House @ Bungalow, 92 Rainey St

Maxo Kream

– Houston, TX rapper released his #MAXO187 mixtape in March via Noisey, includes features from Joey Bada$$, Father, Fredo Santana, LE$, Lamb$
– A former crip with a history of home burglary and drug-peddling dating back to grade school
– Previous mixtape, QuiccStrikes named by Complex as on of Houston’s Best Rap Mixtapes of 2013, song “Whitney Houston” named one of 2013’s best songs by Cocaine Blunts

Wednesday, March 18th

11:05pm-11:25pm – The Dispensary by Top Shelf @ Palm Door on Sixth Patio, 508 3 6th St

Thursday, March 19th

TBD – Presented by Zagland 615 @ Cardinal Lane

Sunday, March 22nd

1:00am – Presented by Mlytia @ 409 Colorado St
1:30am – Presented by Amalgam @ Bat Door

Opio x Free the Robots

– Golden era rapper of the Hieroglyphics/Souls of Mischief teams up with pioneering L.A. beat scene producer to create a “future retro” sound
– The Subconscious Mind EP released in February via Red Bull
– Over 42k Twitter followers combined and preparing another collaborative album release for Summer

Friday, March 20th
2:40 or 5:20, Air Up There @ 219 West, 612 W 6th St
2:30 or 4:30, ATX Wildfire @ Flamingo Cantina, 515 E 6th St
6:45pm – Daywalkers Party @ 301 Chicon St Unit G
1:10am-1:50am – Madison House Showcase @Holy Mountain, 617 E 7th St

The Outfit, TX

– Dallas producer/rapper trio named “best rap group you’re not talking about (yet)” by MTV
– Dallas producer/rapper trio preparing album release for summer
– Interview by NPR’s Microphone Check, Complex, named 5 Best New Artists by SPIN

Wednesday, March 18th

10:30pm – TopShelf Shows Presents The Dispensary @ Palm Door on Sixth, 508 E 6th St

Saturday, March 21st

10:30pm – Fun Fun Fun Fest x House of Vans: Fun Fun Fun Fest’s 10 Year Anniversary Party @ The Mohawk, 912 Red River St (RSVP: https://www.facebook.com/events/820736534665109/)

10:30pm – SXSW Showcase @ Palm Door on Sixth, 508 E 6th St

ProbCause

– Represented by Paradigm agency
– Chicago rapper released ZRO FOX EP with Psalm One aka Hologram Kizzie in January via Consequence of Sound, who said “the EP offers plenty of thought-provoking rhymes and intense production for fans of alt-leaning hip-hop.”
– Over 900k Soundcloud plays on “LSD ft. Chance The Rapper (The Hood Internet Remix)” track
– Previously toured with Cherub and EARPHUNK
– Released solo EP, WAVES, in May via SPIN, who said “its ambitions are bigger than the sampler that ‘EP’ suggests.”
– Concluded 15-city tour with live drummer in February, tour spanned South and Midwest

Thursday, March 19th
5:00-5:15pm – Chicago Made Booth @ Austin Convention Center, 500 E Cesar Chavez St
9:45pm-10:20pm – AudioTree Showcase @ Licha’s Cantina, 1306 E 6th St
12:00am-1:00am – Heroes for a Cause @ Krave Upstairs, 302 E 6th St

Sir Michael Rocks

– Member of the Cool Kids, recently moved back home to Chicago, released debut solo album, Banco, last Summer via the AV Club

– Launched Exotic Gourmet clothing line, highlighted by The FADER

– Begins 18-city tour with Robb Banks and Pouya in April, tour spans South, West Coast, and Midwest

– Preparing EP release for Spring-early Summer release

Thursday, March 19th
8:00pm-8:30pm – Presented by Thrasher Magazine x CONVERSE @ Gypsy Lounge, 1504 E 6th St

12:45-1:10am with Murs @ Blackheart, 86 Rainey St.

Friday, March 20th

1:30am-1:50am – Presented by SCOPE (HOUSTON Art x Music Event) @ V Lounge, 409 Colorado St

Sudie

Friday, March 20th

9:00pm – The Air Up There 3.0 @ 219 West, 612 W 6th St

Saturday, March 21st

4:00pm – Eye In the Sky Presents Future of Music Showcase @ Shiner’s Saloon, 422 N Congress Ave

Wara From the NBHD

– Atlanta via NYC rapper/producer, in January released If Guns Could Speak EP addressing police brutality
– Last year’s album release, Kidnapped, received 7.7 Pitchfork review, 4/5 HipHopDX review
– Featured in XXL’s The Break, HipHopWired’s Certified Fresh, Mass Appeal’s Rhythm Roulette, HotNewHipHop interview, Pigeons & Planes interview

Thursday, March 19th
5:30 @ Smokers Club House

Saturday, March 21st
10:00pm – @ Container Bar, 90 Rainey Street
11:20pm – Burn One x Ballers Eve x Motion Family @ Palm Door, 6th St

END

03.12.2015

Recorded Entirely in New Orleans, Real People Explores the Depths of Human Connections and is Backed by Star-Studded Line-up

Press Release

Recorded Entirely in New Orleans, Real People Explores the Depths of Human Connections and is Backed by Star-Studded Line-up

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Lyrics Born Announces Release of Eighth Album “Real People” on May 5th

Recorded Entirely in New Orleans, Real People Explores the Depths of Human Connections and is Backed by Star-Studded Line-up

3.12.2015

Critical praise for Lyrics Born:

“Far-reaching flows over throwback electro soul, or street-wise synth-pop for the 20-10… whatever labels you need to apply to it – at day’s end, it’s just good fucking music.” – Okayplayer

“…if Lyrics Born has one defining strength it’s his ability to get structurally and rhythmically adventurous in his flow while still remaining perfectly simple to follow linguistically.” – Pitchfork

“God bless Lyrics Born.” – PopMatters

“The Second Album is life-affirming, with a force few artists in any genre can match.” – NPR

The Announcement:

Tokyo-born, Berkeley-bred rapper/producer Lyrics Born, who played a major role in creating the blueprint for independent rap labels as we know them today, will release his eighth album, Real People via his Mobile Home Recordings label on May 5th. Following the album he released as one-half of Latyrx, which NPR dubbed “hands-down, the best alt-rap album of the year,” Lyrics Born continues to forge new territory with Real People. Enamored with New Orleans’ history and musicians from all the years of touring and playing shows there, Lyrics Born uprooted his digs in The Bay Area to The Big Easy for two weeks to recruit the city’s most talented musicians.

Recorded entirely in The Big Easy by Galactic‘s Robert Mercurio and Ben Ellman, the album follows the ethos Lyrics Born has maintained for his 20+ year career: doing things that neither he nor anyone else has done yet. Enlisting the talents of Trombone Shorty, Ivan Neville, Galactic, Corey Henry, and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, along with guest stars Corey Glover (Living Colour), David Shaw (The Revivalists), Billy Martin (Medeski, Martin & Wood), and more, Lyrics Born occupies a space rarely seen in rap. No other non-NOLA rapper has dedicated a whole album working with all New Orleans funk musicians. “It might be the last true ‘music town’ in America, maybe in the world,” states Lyrics Born. “As an artist and a person, I identify with the culture, the sensibilities, the lifestyle, and the people. I wanted to do something really soulful, organic, earthy, and with an honest, unpretentious funk feel. That’s basically New Orleans.”

Lyrics Born balances his trademark mix of clever, good-time party ethos with a strong dose of funk with Real People as an honest body of work about the human race. Sharing personal experiences such as emigrating from Japan as a kid, fatherhood, and the direction society has turned in post-great-recession America, Lyrics Born also celebrates adulthood and the pains and joys of growing older. As he explains it, “I talk a lot of foolish shit and cuss my ass off and explore my darker side on certain songs. Hopefully we get a good cross-section of ourselves to explore on this album.” With the upcoming release of the album, Lyrics Born has arrived at a well-rounded sound that is classic and yet futuristic. He hasn’t forgotten his humble beginnings, but he’s never been afraid to look to the future, either.

Read Rolling Stone’s announcement of the album here: http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/cali-hip-hop-veteran-lyrics-born-details-real-people-lp-20150224

Pre-sale link: radi.al/LyricsBornRealPeople

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Lyrics Born.

Lyrics Born’s Background:

The first words of Lyrics Born‘s eighth album speak volumes about where the legendary MC stands these days: “Real people do real things. Yes we do.” The Bay Area resident born Tom Shimura has stood at the peak of high-minded underground rap, explored the far reaches of interstellar synth-hop, and blazed trails galore. The Tokyo-born, Berkeley-based artist has owned his career each step of the way, ever since a radio gig at UC Davis’ KDVS put him in the same room as Shadow, the mighty Blackalicious, and his Latyrx partner Lateef the Truthspeaker. As co-founder of the Solesides and Quannum Projects labels, LB was vital in pushing independent hip-hop music into the limelight, dropping a minted classic, The Album, with his duo in 1997. The Same !@#$ Different Day set followed in 2005, rounding up the likes of KRS-One, Dan the Automator, Cut Chemist, E-40, and Morcheeba for a series of radical remixes.

He expanded his palette again with 2008’s Everywhere at Once on historic punk label Epitaph Records. The instrument-heavy LP spawned a Jimmy Kimmel Live! appearance with “I Like It, I Love It.” Now, Lyrics Born is proud to officially launch his very own Mobile Home Records with Real People. The new album’s strong focus is a compliment to the wild range of Latyrx’s 2013 return, The Second Album, which featured collaborations with folks from tUnE-yArDs, Decemberists, and Anticon, among others. As always, Lyrics Born remains committed to delivering the unexpected and outdoing himself with ease.

Links:

LBVS6: https://soundcloud.com/lyricsborn/sets/the-lyrics-born-variety-show-season-6/s-cMeJU

Bio, pics, and more here: http://audibletreats.com/lyrics-born/

END

03.12.2015

Buzzfeed Premieres Bobby Brackins’ “My Jam” Video Featuring Zendaya and Jeremih

Press Release

Buzzfeed Premieres Bobby Brackins’ “My Jam” Video Featuring Zendaya and Jeremih

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Video: Bobby Brackins ft. Zendaya & Jeremih – “My Jam”

Buzzfeed Premieres Sizzling New Video, Filmed in Puerto Rico

3.12.2015

Critical Praise for Bobby Brackins:

“Brackins has such a specific voice, which is obviously a great quality in a rapper—it’s pinched and rangy, a scratchy pop-art alto that counters the smooth edges around him.” – Jezebel

“We expect to hear much more greatness from Bobby in the future.” – Karen Civil

“…such an addictive bounce repeat listens happen without intention.” – The Smoking Section

“‘Hot Box’ is a steaming track that you’ll find yourself humming instantly.” – XXL

“Brackins sounds like a seasoned vet as he displays his charismatic delivery.” – Complex

“A sensuous, blunted bit of ratchet R&B.” – HotNewHipHop

The Video:

“It’s amaaaaaaazing,” said MTV, regarding the colorful, new video for rapper/songwriter Bobby Brackins’ “My Jam” featuring young starlet Zendaya and R&B singer Jeremih. Buzzfeed, who premiered the video described the radio-ready single as “a great laid-back party anthem that sounds like how the best summer nights feel – airy, easy-going, and a little sexy,” while Stereogum added “‘My Jam’ follows in the long lineage of songs like ‘Happy’ that can be enjoyed with the same enthusiasm by anyone from 9 to 90.” Jezebel premiered the mp3 last week and Teen Vogue premiered an exclusive clip. Filmed under the red hot sun of Puerto Rico, the video shows the trio enjoying beautiful sights and each other’s company, springing us forward to hot summer nights with strong party vibes.

Holding a track record of penning #1 singles for everyone from Tinashe to Chris Brown and more, Bobby Brackins successfully delivered another banger with “My Jam.” “A song like ‘My Jam’ is going to transcend generations. It’s one of those universal records that has qualities people of all walks of life can enjoy,” Bobby tells Buzzfeed. “I wanted the video to feel real and organic, not staged or scripted and I feel we accomplished that.” Says Zendaya, “It’s always awesome working with Bobby. I’ve known him since I was 12 and he’s like a big brother to me. We have a great time in studio and we just make good music,” adding, “We’ve always had great chemistry. But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve become more active in the process and I’m more involved in the writing and creating the melodies which is really great because Bobby’s always very open to collaboration.”

Last week Bobby was featured in a Forbes interview where he spoke about his career as a hit songwriter, expressing that he’s taking on the biz as a solo artist. This is setting up to be a big year for Bobby Brackins, as Noisey stated in a recent interview, he wrote two of the biggest songs of 2014 – winning his first BMI Award for songwriting credits on Chris Brown’s “Loyal,” and earning industry praises for writing Tinashe’s “2 On,” which Billboard named the #1 R&B Track of the Year. This comes in addition to Bobby Brackins’ own hit single, “Hot Box,” featuring G-Eazy and Mila J, which holds over 4M plays on SoundCloud and 1.5M on YouTube. With “My Jam” currently #1 on Billboard’s Emerging Artists chart, the Grammy-nominated, Oakland-bred artist is ready to step into the spotlight as a writer, rapper, and solo act who’s carving the new California sound.

Watch “My Jam” ft. Zendaya & Jeremih (Directed by Damien Sandoval): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IP9A4cs_xQU

Listen to “My Jam” (ft. Zendaya & Jeremih): https://soundcloud.com/bobbybrackins/my-jam-feat-zendaya-jeremih-prod-by-dem-jointz

Check out the Buzzfeed premiere: http://www.buzzfeed.com/kelleydunlap/premiere-bobby-brackins-vibes-with-zendaya-and-jeremih-in-my#.jn2mYvZR7b

Purchase “My Jam” on iTunes: http://Smarturl.it/thismyjam

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Bobby Brackins.

The Background:

Amidst a wave of self-made songwriters, artists and producers, Oakland, California’s Bobby Brackins is at the forefront. With over 25 million YouTube plays, and international radio spins, the established soloist who has written a litany of artists including Zendaya, Trey Songz, and Jeremih is finally coming into his own. Following high school, Bobby Brackins relocated to Los Angeles alongside his producer and close friend, Nic Nac. “I wanted to keep making music with Nic, and I knew that L.A. was more industry-based. That’s where the labels and well-connected managers were,” Bobby Brackins states. Taking advantage of the web early on to brand himself the artist has had a slew of success working with countless artists which led to Bobby Brackins penning and co-producing a #1 record for Chris Brown in “Loyal,” as well as helping Tinashe find the traction necessary to earn a major label album release date with her lead single, “2 On.” The credit is there, is as the chart and viral reaction, assuring the world that Bobby Brackins has his pen, production, and pulse on the people.

Links:

twitter | facebook | youtube

“My Jam” (ft. Zendaya & Jeremih): https://soundcloud.com/bobbybrackins/my-jam-feat-zendaya-jeremih-prod-by-dem-jointz // https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IP9A4cs_xQU

“Hot Box” (Remix featuring IAMSU! & Too $hort): https://soundcloud.com/bobbybrackins/hot-box-feat-iamsu-too-short-mila-j/

“Hot Box” (Sinden Remix): https://soundcloud.com/bobbybrackins/hot-box-sinden-remix/

“Hot Box” (DJ Mustard Remix): https://soundcloud.com/dj-mustard-1/hot-box-remix-bobby-brackins-feat-mila-j-choice-terrance-martin

“Hot Box” (feat. G-Eazy & Mila J) Video: http://www.vevo.com/watch/bobby-brackins/hot-box/USA2P1467790

“Hot Box” (feat. G-Eazy & Mila J) Lyric Video: http://youtu.be/4X-bOWDGQLI

“Hot Box” (feat. G-Eazy & Mila J): https://soundcloud.com/bobbybrackins/bobby-brackins-hot-box-ft-g-eazy-mila-j/

Bio, pictures and streams available here: http://www.audibletreats.com/bobby-brackins/

END

03.11.2015

Premiered by Jezebel, 23-Year-Old Singer/Songwriter/Producer Sudie Bares All In Her Breathtaking Visual, “Heartattack”

Press Release

Premiered by Jezebel, 23-Year-Old Singer/Songwriter/Producer Sudie Bares All In Her Breathtaking Visual, “Heartattack”

Go to Post

Video: Sudie – “Heartattack”

The 23-Year-Old Dallas Singer/Songwriter/Producer Bares All In the Breathtaking Visual for Her Latest Single, Premiered By Jezebel

3.11.2015

Critical Praise for Sudie:

“If the work under her belt is any indicator, a staggering talent like Sudie’s could very well be mentioned one day in the same breath as some of North Texas’ most notable women in music.” – Dallas Observer News

“‘Heart Attack’ is the first taste of the 22-year-old’s sound that combines pop sensibilities with classical training and a dash of experimental DIYism.” – Indie Shuffle“

“Sudie is as every bit as talented as has been reported. She has a crowd-pleasing ability to carry a note to improbably soaring heights.” – D Magazine

“Her style fuses the ache of Jazz legends like Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday with the same eccentricity reminiscent of European artists Björk and Karin Dreijer Andersson.” – Saint Heron

“Sudie has been on my radar for some time now, and from the looks of things she’s garnering compliments from others as well with each drop.” – Artistic Manifesto

The Video:

23-year-old Dallas singer/songwriter/producer Sudie lets more than just her guard down in her video for “Heartattack. “As she disrobes, the song submerges itself in its own echos, near-a cappella but for a twinkle of piano that would be extraneous if it weren’t so ginger,” stated Jezebel in their premiere post. “The loss of innocence in the video is mostly about the loss of the innocence of the mind,” Sudie explains. “I didn’t want this to only be about in terms of sexuality, but more as a human being and what comes with growing up out of childhood into adulthood. For me, it was more about how the carefree and insouciant ideology and mental state of a child completely changes as you grow up and take on responsibilities.”

“Heartattack” is a song Sudie wrote after a panic attack, learning soon after that her grandfather had coincidentally passed from a heart attack the night before. The breathtaking song and video follows Sudie’s previous single, “Bruise,” which debuted with Indie Shuffle last month. “Sudie certainly channels her inner Björk on this one while still adding her own flavor to the self-produced single,” said Okayplayer of the track.

Sudie is looking to forge new lanes in music with her versatile style, utilizing her wide background in music that ranges from opera and voice training and her teenage experiences in Dubai. Spotlighted in a Dallas Observer cover story last year, she is preparing to release her self-titled debut EP on April 7th via Black Milk‘s Computer Ugly label. “This EP is an intense look into my mind and what goes on in my brain dealing with certain specific situations in my life,” says Sudie. “It is extremely personal and intimate—it’s my way of communication.”

Watch “Heartattack”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3hopVKcM4g

Check out the Jezebel premiere: http://themuse.jezebel.com/submerge-yourself-in-sudies-new-video-for-heartattack-1690522354

Listen to “Heartattack”: https://soundcloud.com/sudiemusic/heartattack

Pre-order Sudie’s self-titled EP: https://sudiemusic.bandcamp.com/album/sudie-ep

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Sudie.

Sudie Background:

Merging classical training with a unique DIY recording process, Sudie is an artist who’s truly forging her own territory. The 22-year-old singer, songwriter and musician, describes her sound as “something jazzy meets kind of crazy… if Bjork had arranged something for Ella Fitzgerald or Billie Holiday to sing over.” It’s a sound she’s crafted all by herself, utilizing a pair of keyboards, a cheap microphone and a MacBook inside the confines of her tiny bathroom in Dallas, Texas, that’s taken her to Dubai and back. The result of that unusual process is a distinctive but accessible musical style, which fuses confessional, personal lyrics with influences from across the musical spectrum. Sudie will release her debut self-titled EP in April 2015 via Black Milk’s Computer Ugly record label.

Links:

facebook | twitter | instagram | soundcloud

“Heartattack”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3hopVKcM4g / https://soundcloud.com/sudiemusic/heartattack

“Bruise”: https://soundcloud.com/sudiemusic/bruise-produced-by-sudie/

“Asiasaurus”: https://soundcloud.com/sudiemusic/asiasaurus

“Affection” (feat. Sudie): https://soundcloud.com/doandroidsdance/niko-javan-ft-sudie-affection

“Spill”: https://soundcloud.com/sudiemusic/spill

Dallas Observer Cover Story: http://blogs.dallasobserver.com/dc9/2014/06/sudie_dream_believer_cover_story.php

END

03.10.2015

Premiered by HYPETRAK, 24-Year-Old Montreal Rapper Wasiu Pays Homage To Notorious B.I.G. With His “Gros Lysick” Freestyle

Press Release

Premiered by HYPETRAK, 24-Year-Old Montreal Rapper Wasiu Pays Homage To Notorious B.I.G. With His “Gros Lysick” Freestyle

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MP3: Wasiu – “Gros Lysick (Freestyle)”

Premiered by HYPETRAK, the 24-Year-Old Montreal Rapper Pays Homage To Notorious B.I.G., Freestyling Over a Familiar Isley Brothers Sample

03.10.2015

The Song:

In honor of Notorious B.I.G.‘s death anniversary on March 9th, 24-year-old Montreal rapper Wasiu paid homage with his “Gros Lysick” freestyle, which debuted via HYPETRAK. Rapping atop Jim Jones‘ “Summer Wit Miami” beat, which samples the Isley Brothers‘ “Between the Sheets,” a sample that was popularly used in Biggie’s “Big Poppa,” Wasiu flips a rendition of the “Big Poppa” chorus after rapping “rest in peace to the ruler of the East.”

Wasiu is young, but he speaks with a wisdom beyond his years. Last week, Okayplayer premiered “Blkkkout,” which followed Wasiu’s fiery Nez & Rio-produced “Stereo Type” single, debuted by EARMILK. As the son of first generation Haitian and Nigerian parents growing up in Montreal, Wasiu used a combination of his own experiences and general stereotypes to spit racist lyrics from the first person perspective of a racist white man. Prior to “Stereo Type,” Wasiu shared his first video single, “Physical,” which was produced by Kaytranada. The track premiered with HotNewHipHop and its accompanying visual released via Noisey.

“Where I grew up made it so I’m able to understand things or view things from a lot of different perspectives,” says Wasiu, who raps with the dexterous singsong cadence of Mos Def and the cultural omniscience of Nas. His forthcoming debut album funnels his life experiences into a culturally defining opus that balances both optimistic and pessimistic perspectives on human themes. “I’m showing what people view as both the good and the bad,” he says, “and how without the bad, you can’t have the good, and so you start to appreciate the bad… for the good.”

Listen to “Gros Lysick”: https://soundcloud.com/w-a-s-i-u/gros-lysick-freestyle

Check out the HYPETRAK premiere: http://hypetrak.com/2015/03/wasiu-biggie-smalls-freestyle/

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Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Wasiu.

Wasiu Background:

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | instagram | soundcloud

“Gros Lysick”: https://soundcloud.com/w-a-s-i-u/gros-lysick-freestyle

“Blkkkout”: https://soundcloud.com/w-a-s-i-u/blkkkout

“Stereo Type”:https://soundcloud.com/w-a-s-i-u/stereo-type-produced-by-nezrio/

“Physical”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cj_6Ed6fjY / https://soundcloud.com/w-a-s-i-u/physical-kaytranada/

Bio, photos, and streams available here: http://www.audibletreats.com/wasiu

END

03.09.2015

Brooklyn Fuzz-Rock Band Lightouts Cover Joy Division’s “Interzone,” Premiered by Diffuser

Press Release

Brooklyn Fuzz-Rock Band Lightouts Cover Joy Division’s “Interzone,” Premiered by Diffuser

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MP3: Led by Dead Kennedys Singer, Lighouts Cover Joy Division’s “Interzone”

03.09.2015

Critical Praise for Lightouts:

Named one of SPIN’s 2012 CMJ “Next Big Things” & 2013 SXSW “Hottest Acts”

“Lightouts …are enthusiastic singles makers, which suits the snappy, punk-fortified jangle-pop that they specialize in.” – Esquire

“…one of the better white guys-with-guitars songs I’ve heard in a while.” – Death and Taxes

“Melding Sonic Youth’s mangled guitars and monotonic vocal sensibilities with a taut and measured rhythm section, these Brooklynites manage to tap into an ever-expanding history of blown-out guitar rock and laconic vocals without feeling like a rehashing of rock’n’roll’s recent past.” – Colin Joyce, SPIN

10/10 star review: “The great thing about Want is how different it sounds from everything and not in a reactionary sort of way… They aren’t trying to sound original or better than the rest of the bands coming out of Brooklyn, they just are. Essentially Want is the kind of album that rock music was invented for.” – Tim Baker, SYFFAL

“Lightouts have the presence and experience to be something HUGE.” – LX-GOODS

The News:

“Lighouts are everything I like about bands,” said KEXP‘s John Richards during an interview/studio performance session with the Brooklyn-based indie/fuzz rockers a few months back. The Lightouts’ former vocalist Greg Nelson is no longer with the band, as he was replaced by Skip Greer early last year. In addition to working with the Lighouts, Skip was the founder East Bay pop punk band the Wynona Ryders and is also currently the singer for agit-punk legends the Dead Kennedys.

Lightouts are gearing up for a new maxi-single release on March 10th, which is their first release in more than a year. The first track to be shared from the forthcoming maxi-single is a cover song of post-punk’s most definitive band, Joy Division. Premiered by Diffuser, Lighouts’ cover of Joy Division’s “Interzone” is based on the RCA demo version of the song that showed up on a box-set that the band put out a few years back, which the band’s lead guitarist Gavin Rhodes comments on, saying the rare RCA demo is “more raw than the studio version, it sounds like there’s a feral beast howling on the moors of some desolate land.”

Listen to the “Interzone” cover single: https://soundcloud.com/lightouts/interzone-joy-division-cover

Pre-order the maxi-single on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/more-than-ever-single/id963427929

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Please contact Michelle if interested in talking with Lightouts.

Lightouts Background:

Gavin Rhodes isn’t one to flit from one musical style to the next; Bowie the Chameleon he is not. And as enthusiastic as he is about new sounds and collaboration, the Lightouts founder/songwriter/guitarist has a clear idea of how he wants his band to sound from one release to the next — even with a new singer onboard. And even if that new singer, Skip McSkipster, also sings for the Dead Kennedys.

Lightouts’ first release with Skip points strongly toward the band’s future. The A-side, “More Than Ever,” smolders along at a midtempo pace as it pays lyrical tribute to a few of the seedier elements of New York, the band’s hometown; the B-side “All We Had,” meanwhile, nails a newly wistful mood, going so far as to work a nocturnal chorus of crickets into the mix. Rhodes’ aim to continue Lightouts’ stylistic thread is realized via striking cover artwork by photographer Jason Knight (whose work also accompanied the Disappear / My My single), as well as through the inclusion of yet another masterfully curated cover, the driving Joy Division nugget “Interzone.”

Rhodes and Skip are understandably excited about making more music together, with plans already well afoot for a second Lightouts LP. Skip puts a fine point on how the pair works best: “I tend to offer more abstract ideas, but Gavin stays very focused and concentrates on exactly what a song needs. I think ‘More Than Ever’ is a good example of the sort of modern-rock progressiveness I hear us creating.”

Links:

“Interzone” (Joy Division cover): https://soundcloud.com/lightouts/interzone-joy-division-cover

“My My”: https://soundcloud.com/lightouts/my-my

“Disappear”: https://soundcloud.com/lightouts/disappear

“The Big Picture”: http://youtu.be/birxOVUgX1Y

“See Clear”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ivt_XizkgXU

Want: http://soundcloud.com/lightouts/sets/want

“Want”: http://soundcloud.com/lightouts/want

Adrian Grenier’s WRECKROOM.tv Session for “Want”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2oxgOWu6g4

“Not Today”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BgQMlBo3tTk

“The Big Picture”: http://media.audibletreats.com/Lightouts-The_Big_Picture.mp3

“Push” (The Cure Cover): http://media.audibletreats.com/Lightouts-Push_(The_Cure_Cover).mp3

“The Official Ironmen Rally Song” (Guided by Voices cover): http://media.audibletreats.com/Lightouts-The_Official_Ironmen_Rally_Song_(Guided_By_Voices_Cover).mp3

“The Eloise Suite”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ld9_4VKhdM&feature

“Here It Comes” (Stone Roses Cover): http://media.audibletreats.com/Lightouts-Here_It_Comes_Stone_Roses_Cover.mp3

Bio, pictures, and streams available here: http://www.audibletreats.com/lightouts/

END

03.06.2015

Premiered by Noisey, 23-Year-Old Houston Rapper Maxo Kream Is Joined By Joey Bada$$, Father, More On #MAXO187 Mixtape

Press Release

Premiered by Noisey, 23-Year-Old Houston Rapper Maxo Kream Is Joined By Joey Bada$$, Father, More On #MAXO187 Mixtape

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Mixtape: Maxo Kream – #MAXO187

The 23-Year-Old Houston Rapper Enlists Joey Bada$$, Father, Fredo Santana For Features On His Sophomore Mixtape, Premiered By Noisey

3.6.2015

Critical Praise:

“This new Maxo Kream project might be one of the best things 2015 currently has to offer.” – HYPETRAK

The Mixtape:

With more than a year between releases, 23-year-old rapper Maxo Kream is back with a gritty, captivating mixtape #MAXO187. “Maxo Kream has established himself as one of Houston’s most exciting young rappers by way of being one of Houston’s least traditionally minded artists,” states Noisey in their premiere of the project. “This tape is a perfect encapsulation of the sound of hip-hop’s rapid synthesis of styles in the Internet era and the way the genre’s new underground heroes are bridging aesthetic and regional gaps,” Noisey says, adding, “more importantly, it is also fucking cool.”

Maxo Kream’s #MAXO187 mixtape includes features from Joey Bada$$, Lamb$, The Sauce Twinz, Father, LE$, and Fredo Santana. “His storytelling has improved,” praises Complex, “with more thoughtful and varied songs that are drawn from his rough past as a gang member.” For a local Crip with a history of home burglary and drug-peddling dating back grade school, Maxo Kream takes a lighthearted approach to making music.

Dating back to 2014, Maxo has been teasing the #MAXO187 release with videos for singles “Clientele,” “End Zone,” and “Trigga Maxo,” as well as last week’s drop of the audio single “Cell Boomin.” Having set the bar high with 2013’s QuiccStrikes mixtape, which Complex named one of the year’s best releases to come out of Houston, Maxo Kream is already catching fire with this sophomore project, #MAXO187, as he’s sure to be making noise in his home state during SXSW in Austin later this month.

Listen to #MAXO187: https://soundcloud.com/maxo-kream/sets/maxo-187

Check out the Noisey premiere: http://noisey.vice.com/blog/maxo-kream-maxo187-mixtape-premiere-interview

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Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Maxo Kream.

Maxo Kream Background:

Links:

official site | twitter | instagram | soundcloud

#MAXO187: https://soundcloud.com/maxo-kream/sets/maxo-187

“Cell Boomin”: https://soundcloud.com/maxo-kream/cell-boomin-ft-father

“End Zone”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGtCyxywwsA

“Clientele”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1rMjJUk80s

“Trigga Maxo”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HW28GbO9q5k

Bio, pictures, and streams available here: http://www.audibletreats.com/maxo-kream

END

03.05.2015

Bay Area Rapper A-1 Remixes Mr. Carmack, Ryan Hemsworth, Sango On Thurlian Mixtape

Press Release

Bay Area Rapper A-1 Remixes Mr. Carmack, Ryan Hemsworth, Sango On Thurlian Mixtape

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Mixtape: A-1 – Thurlian

The Bay Area Rapper Remixes Tracks From Genre-Bending Producers For His Raw, Energetic, Conscious Mixtape

3.5.2015

Critical Praise For A-1:

“A-1′s style has a similar kind of funny, free-for-all feel as post-Mac Dre rappers like [Roach] Gigz, but has a sly rap style that is distinctly his own.” – The FADER

“Easily one of the illest emcees I’ve heard over the last few years.” – OkayPlayer

“…something that sounds so vital and absolutely hyphy that it pretty much had to come from the Bay.” –Noisey

The Album:

After a series of weekly single and video releases, charismatic San Francisco rapper A-1‘s #ThurlianThursday campaign has reached its pinnacle with the unveiling of his Thurlian mixtape. The project finds the MC remixing beats by genre-bending producers Sango, Mr. Carmack, Ryan Hemsworth, Stwo, and BEAR//FACE, while working original cuts by Mikos Da Gawd and Woostar. A-1 merges emotionally charged rap lyrics with raw testimony, ranging from party-ready anthems to message-driven deep cuts. His prolific rhymes have gained attention from outlets such as The FADER, Noisey, FACT Mag, Okayplayer, GoodMusicAllDay, HYPETRAK, Mass Appeal, and more. In their premiere post of A-1’s hyphy single “There I Go,” Noisey raved that the track is “something that sounds so vital and absolutely hyphy that it pretty much had to come from the Bay.”

“Thurlian is a compilation of songs I’ve been recording over the past two years that all symbolize different aspects of what it means to be ‘Thurl,’ which is to Think (for oneself), Hustle (for one another), Understand (each other), and Really Live (one’s life to the fullest),” A-1 explains. “This project was inspired by my experiences while traveling, seeing different parts of the world and realizing that human suffering is a constant struggle everywhere. As someone with a voice and a following, I feel I have the power to influence those who are willing to listen, and therefore I think I’m somewhat obligated to use that voice for good.”

“I wanted to make an album with a message of love and unity, that would make people think critically about the state of the world, but not in a way that would make them feel depressed or guilty, but rather hopeful and willing to contribute to the change. I hope that people walk away from this project feeling fulfilled, confident and optimistic,” A-1 adds. “My idea is that if one day, modern human beings can finally figure out a way to live peacefully amongst each other, develop clean sustainable method for gathering energy and food, and can live in perfect harmony with Mother Earth, we will have entered a new stage in human evolution.”

Listen to Thurlian: https://soundcloud.com/adamraps/sets/thurlian

Check out A-1’s newly launched website: http://www.a-1music.com/

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Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with A-1.

A-1 Background:

Born Adam Traore, a first generation US citizen to West African and Italian parents, A-1‘s music is constructed around vivid stories of growing up in The City while searching for happiness and self awareness. After the release of After School Special, a mixtape based on 90s television shows, he gained a fan base through internet buzz while still living on his friend’s couch. Soon after, he released his follow-up The Book Of Adam which was received so well, he quit his day job the day after the listening party. With 2012’s The Thurl Tape, A-1 has been acknowledged by publications such as the FADER and Complex. Equipped with a heart filled with passion, an insatiable desire for creativity, discerning eyes and ears for quality, and a plan to spread his music to as many people as possible, A-1 is poised to be the first name in music lover’s iPods in the very near future. A-1’s Thurlian mixtape released March 5, 2015.

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | youtube | tumblr

Thurlian: https://soundcloud.com/adamraps/sets/thurlian

“Sunday Love”:https://soundcloud.com/adamraps/sundaylove/

“Good People”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yNf8e034Dtg / https://soundcloud.com/adamraps/good-people-w-b-e-a-r-f-a-ce

Thurlian promo video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEtoZvLR4Oc

“There I Go”: https://soundcloud.com/adamraps/there-i-go-original-music-by-mr-carmack/

“Doing the Most / Carry the Ghost”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qJS6zCFdK18

“Parasail”: https://soundcloud.com/adamraps/a-1-parasail-prod-louis-futon

“Summertime Sadness”:http://youtu.be/4hdqYMkpIj8

“Retinas”: http://youtu.be/V2s5jOsf5mw

“Summertime Sadness” Remix: https://soundcloud.com/adamraps/summertime-sadness-prod-ryan

“The Ritual”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WI2UfwopCI0

Bio, photos, and additional info: http://www.audibletreats.com/a-1

END

03.04.2015

The Hieroglyphics MC Teams Up With the L.A. Beat Scene Pioneer For A Future Retro EP, Debuted by Red Bull

Press Release

The Hieroglyphics MC Teams Up With the L.A. Beat Scene Pioneer For A Future Retro EP, Debuted by Red Bull

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EP: Souls of Mischief’s Opio x Free the Robots – The Subconscious Mind

The Hieroglyphics MC Teams Up With the L.A. Beat Scene Pioneer For A Future Retro EP, Debuted by Red Bull

3.3.2015

Critical Praise for Opio x Free the Robots:

“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 EP:

Legendary Souls of Mischief hip-hop artist and Santa Ana beatmaker/DJ formed a duo that is undeniably West Coast, Opio x Free the Robots. They’ve released their four-track debut EP, The Subconscious Mind, via RedBull.com, where Free the Robots’ futuristic, melodic beats are complemented by Opio’s classic laid-back, retro lyricism. The release has been gaining momentum from their singles “Blow Sum Smoke” and “Let the Bass Go,” which received praise from Impose Magazine, EARMILK, Okayplayer, and more. “What’s most impressive though is [Free the Robots’] ability to straddle a span of decades within barely four minutes. Dotted by weezing synths and echoey accents, he still manages to demonstrate his deep roots in classic 90s G-funk production, as his beats slink and slide beneath Opio’s signature drawl-funk flow,” Impose Magazine stated in their post of “Blow Sum Smoke.”

The duo, who officially met at FTR’s restaurant in Santa Ana, was a musical force waiting to happen. “Working with Opio brings me back to my musical roots and pushes me to venture to creative places I had either forgotten or have never been to,” Free the Robots tells RedBull.com “A good part of this collaboration with Opio is partly nostalgia, but more so the fact that as one of the legends in hip-hop, he has moved forward as a new artist with new ideas and an open mind for things that I bring to the table.”

Opio, who with his Souls of Mischief crew was recently on Red Bull Academy Live‘s live takeover of San Francisco, adds, “Both FTR and I have strong principles that are rooted in the origins of our respective genres, and bringing those two things together created something amazing.” With The Subconscious Mind, Opio and Free the Robots are exploring new lanes in music, bridging their strengths into a collaboration full of smooth rhymes, futuristic sounds, and good vibes.

Listen to The Subconscious Mind EP: https://soundcloud.com/opiohierosom/sets/the-subconscious-mind/s-Vee8I

Check out the RedBull.com premiere: http://www.redbull.com/us/en/music/stories/1331708349942/opio-and-free-the-robots-subconscious-mind-ep

Buy The Subconscious Mind EP on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/the-subconscious-mind-ep/id965939542?ls=1

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Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Opio x Free the Robots.

The Background:

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.

Links:

twitter | facebook | soundcloud

The Subconscious Mind: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/the-subconscious-mind-ep/id965939542?ls=1

“Let the Bass Go”:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YS2jeShrhmI / https://soundcloud.com/opiohierosom/let-the-bass-go/

“Blow Sum Smoke”: https://soundcloud.com/free-the-robots/opio-x-free-the-robots-blown-sum-smoke

Bio, pictures and streams available here: http://www.audibletreats.com/opio-x-free-robots/

END

03.03.2015

Detroit Rapper MAHD Shares Self-Reflecting Journey on 13 Concept Album, Debut via HotNewHipHop

Press Release

Detroit Rapper MAHD Shares Self-Reflecting Journey on 13 Concept Album, Debut via HotNewHipHop

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Album: MAHD – 13

Detroit Rapper MAHD Shares Self-Reflecting Journey on 13 Concept Album, Debut via HotNewHipHop

3.3.2015

Critical Praise for MAHD:

“…equipped with a rapid fire flow and a sharp delivery.” – DJBooth

“The up-and-coming Motor City MC makes a city known for it’s blight beam bright.” – The Smoking Section

“Like the city he hails from, MAHD’s work represents stark contrasts: grit and beauty, aggression and vulnerability.” – NYLON Magazine

The Album:

Zealous Detroit rapper MAHD released his debut album, 13, yesterday via HotNewHipHop. The concept album follows MAHD through the stresses of a deteriorating relationship, which ends with him leaving his hometown in search of clarity and release. He sets out on a journey of personal reflection to escape Motor City only to realize he’s eternally tied and returns with a renewed sense of purpose and self-identity, hell-bent on creating a more fulfilling life.

13 follows the release of his EP, MAHD ALMIGHTY, and is his most ambitious project yet. MAHD has been building anticipation towards the release of the album with #MAHDMondays, releasing singles “Can’t Believe/Road Trip,” “Hello Detroit,” “Gorgeous Chick,” and “Out.” In addition to releasing those official singles, MAHD has shared several loosies, including “Rap Better,” which The Smoking Section praised, stating “Quality lyricism in hip-hop is a rare commodity. Yet, MAHD looks to break that mold.” 13 finds MAHD paying homage to his hometown, as the Motor City has contributed to his growth as an artist. “Detroit definitely motivates me and the supporters that I have,” he explains. “It definitely uplifts me. If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere.”

MAHD is all about staying true to his art-focusing on sharp lyrics and delivery, taking hip-hop back to its core. His clever, gritty style has him on our radars as one of Detroit’s most innovative voices. “I developed this belief after looking around and seeing people complacent with lives that I couldn’t picture myself living forever. I feel I have a purpose on this earth that can bring change through my words so that’s what I’m doing.” MAHD will be joining Black Milk’s forthcoming Play Like Hell tour for the NYC, Philly, and D.C. dates, and will also be performing at several showcases at this year’s SXSW.

Listen to 13: https://soundcloud.com/iammahd/sets/13a

Check out the HotNewHipHop premiere: http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/mahd-13-new-mixtape.115740.html

Order 13 on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/13/id962862105

MAHD Background:

Links:

13: https://soundcloud.com/iammahd/sets/13a

“Can’t Believe/Road Trip”: https://soundcloud.com/iammahd/cant-believeroad-trip-prod-original-foreign-mister-crowe

“Spaz City”: https://soundcloud.com/iammahd/spaz-city-prod-yolagang/s-UmCZL

“Rap Better”: https://soundcloud.com/iammahd/rap-better-prod-original-foreign/

“Out”: https://soundcloud.com/iammahd/out

“Raptizm”: https://soundcloud.com/iammahd/raptizm-prod-jeff-gore/s-n6W6m

“Raw Shit”: https://soundcloud.com/iammahd/raw-sh-t

Bio, photos, and more music from MAHD: http://www.audibletreats.com/mahd/

END

03.02.2015

Premiered by Okayplayer, the 24-Year-Old Montreal Rapper Fights the Power On “Blkkkout,” Which Released in Honor of Black History Month

Press Release

Premiered by Okayplayer, the 24-Year-Old Montreal Rapper Fights the Power On “Blkkkout,” Which Released in Honor of Black History Month

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MP3: Wasiu – “Blkkkout” (Prod. HESK & Paveun)

Premiered by Okayplayer, the 24-Year-Old Montreal Rapper Fights the Power On “Blkkkout,” Which Released in Honor of Black History Month

03.02.2015

The Song:

The walls seem to be closing in on 24-year-old rapper Wasiu as the haunting production by HESK & Paveun scrapes and screams through the corridors while the Montreal native unleashes an onslaught of rage and frustration on “Blkkkout.” Premiered by Okayplayer in honor of Black History Month, Wasiu overpowers the prejudices he’s faced with, crashing through speakers with or without a formal invitation. “The double entendre is to keep blacks out,” Wasiu explains, “so the reaction is to blackout against them wanting to keep the blacks out of their terrain. We’re not happy, we’re not happy accepting the limited freedom, and the limited rights.”

Wasiu is young, but he speaks with a wisdom beyond his years. “Blkkkout” follows Wasiu’s fiery “Stereo Type” single, which debuted via EARMILK. As the son of first generation Haitian and Nigerian parents growing up in Montreal, Wasiu used a combination of his own experiences and general stereotypes to spit racist lyrics from the first person perspective of a racist white man. Prior to “Stereo Type,” Wasiu shared his first video single, “Physical,” which was produced by Kaytranada. The track premiered with HotNewHipHop and its accompanying visual released via Noisey.

Listen to “Blkkkout”: https://soundcloud.com/w-a-s-i-u/blkkkout

Check out the Okayplayer premiere: http://www.okayplayer.com/news/okp-premiere-wasiu-blkkkout.html

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Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Wasiu.

Wasiu Background:

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | instagram | soundcloud

“Blkkkout”: https://soundcloud.com/w-a-s-i-u/blkkkout

“Stereo Type”:https://soundcloud.com/w-a-s-i-u/stereo-type-produced-by-nezrio/

“Physical”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cj_6Ed6fjY / https://soundcloud.com/w-a-s-i-u/physical-kaytranada/

Bio, photos, and streams available here: http://www.audibletreats.com/wasiu

END

03.02.2015

Premiered by Okayplayer, Ikey and SaveMoney’s Kami de Chukwu Take ‘Em To Church On “Lord”

Press Release

Premiered by Okayplayer, Ikey and SaveMoney’s Kami de Chukwu Take ‘Em To Church On “Lord”

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MP3: Ikey (ft. SaveMoney’s Kami de Chukwu) – “Lord” (Prod. by Marc Andre)

Any Means Necessary and SaveMoney Team Up For a Soulful Cut Off Ikey’s Forthcoming Green Card EP

03.02.2015

Critical Praise for Ikey:

“His delivery is cool and calm with a bite… Ikey takes this shit to the next level.” – Pigeons & Planes

“…continuing to impress hip-hop fans all over the globe with his melodic and confident flow.” – Okayplayer

The Song:

Maryland by way of Nigeria by way of Harlem rapper Ikey brings the soul back on his new single “Lord,” featuring SaveMoney‘s Kami de Chukwu. “Ikey stays soulful as he stunts,” explained Okayplayer in their premiere, “dropping high-syllable-traffic verses that show thanks for fine things like crisp clothes, sunshine and a beautiful woman.” Both Ikey and Kami de Chukwu flex over a jubilant sample that sounds like something Kanye West could have produced circa-2004.

“When I heard the vocal samples on the song, it reminded me of going to church on Sunday to give thanks when I was growing up,” explains Ikey of the production by Marc Andre. “This song just gives me grand and heavenly vibes, but it’s stuntastic too.” Using a double time flow that matches the chaotic energy of the angelic chirps and spastic drums, “Lord” is Ikey at his most regal and energetic.

Whether speaking about the atrocities happening in his home of Nigeria or rapping about the complexities of chasing your dreams against your families’ wishes, Ikey provides a unique perspective steeped in his upbringing. The influences of his time growing up in Spanish Harlem and Lagos, Nigeria can be found in the his complex rhyme patterns and penchant for melody throughout his songs. “Lord” is the fourth single from Ikey’s forthcoming Green Card EP, following the Complex-premiered “Olodo,” Pigeons & Planes-debuted “Timbuktu,” and “When We Were Kings,” which dropped via DJBooth.

Listen to “Lord” (ft. Kami de Chukwu): https://soundcloud.com/any-means-necessary/lord-feat-kami-de-chukwu/

Check out the Okayplayer premiere: http://www.okayplayer.com/news/ikey-lord-okp-track-premiere.html

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Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Ikey.

Ikey Background:

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | youtube

“Lord” (ft. Kami de Chukwu): https://soundcloud.com/any-means-necessary/lord-feat-kami-de-chukwu/

“When We Were Kings”: https://soundcloud.com/any-means-necessary/when-we-were-kings/

“Timbuktu”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5TScKTDWl8g

“Olodo”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GEBszOh9hb0

Bio, photos, and more info on Ikey: http://audibletreats.com/ikey

END

02.27.2015

The Chicago Artist That Passion of the Weiss Calls the “Best New Rapper” Shares His Latest Visual, Remixing Fetty Wap’s Hit

Press Release

The Chicago Artist That Passion of the Weiss Calls the “Best New Rapper” Shares His Latest Visual, Remixing Fetty Wap’s Hit

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Video: Montana of 300 – “Trap Queen” (Remix) (ft. Jalyn Sanders)

The Chicago Artist That Passion of the Weiss Calls the “Best New Rapper” Shares His Latest Visual, Remixing Fetty Wap’s Hit

02.27.2015

The Remix:

Chicago rapper Montana of 300 takes Fetty Wap’s “Trap Queen” and makes it his own banger, crushing the track with his witty rhymes. “We’ve heard quite a few rappers try their hand at Fetty Wap’s buzzing single, ‘Trap Queen,’ but few have recreated the hook as faithfully as Montana Of 300,” said HotNewHipHop of the remix, which features singer Jalyn Sanders.The “Trap Queen” remix has Montana of 300 flexing his ceaseless energy as he effortlessly raps about sticking with the real ones, getting hype with his crew, and his life as an MC, rapping “I got bars like a prison” and “[I] invested in myself just like vending machines I’m stacking chips.” The versatile rapper has been building a strong following with a series of remix videos (“Try Me,” “Coco“) and a recent mixtape release, Cursed With A Blessing.

“Montana of 300 is the best new rapper,” stated Passion of the Weiss in a new feature spotlighting the artist. Often referred to as “Rap God,” Montana of 300 got his start back in 2008 when he and his crew named themselves after the movie 300, adopting the movie’s underlying motif “No surrender, no retreat” as his own anthem. His latest project, Cursed with A Blessing, shows his range of lyricism and creativity. The FADER referred to his single “Ice Cream Truck” as “a hittas anthem that’s at once sweetly melodic and a true banger.” Having gained over 35+ million YouTube views, Montana of 300 has proven time after time that he can deliver and that he’s more than just another Chicago rapper.

Watch “Trap Queen” (Remix): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h4V2qocqoSc

Read the Passion of the Weiss feature: http://www.passionweiss.com/2015/02/26/montana-of-300-chicago-ice-cream-man/

Listen to Montana of 300’s Cursed With A Blessing: http://www.livemixtapes.com/mixtapes/31065/montana-of-300-cursed-with-a-blessing.html

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Montana of 300.

Montana of 300 Background:

Montana of 300 is an independent rapper from the South side of Chicago. Wearing a bandana underneath his rope like/twisted dreads and covered in tattoos, Montana’s YouTube presence has blown up, with his remixes of Dej Loaf’s “Try Me” racking in almost 8 million views and “Chiraq” clocking 7 million views, to name a few. Often referred to as “Rap God,” Montana of 300 got his start back in 2008 when he named himself after the movie 300, adopting the movie’s underlying motif “No surrender, no retreat” as his own anthem. Known for his back-to-back flurries of mind-blowing metaphors, unforgettable quotes, inspirational stories of struggle and his aggression, Montana’s music is spreading fast, keeping the people talking and running to tell the next. Being versatile and dropping hits like “Holy Ghost,” “Ice Cream Truck,” and “All I Ever Wanted,” he shows us that he’s way more than just another Chicago rapper. He never fails to crush all the competition and his fans go nuts every time. Montana of 300 has been turning down record deals, saying he’s comfortable with how he’s doing while planning on staying independent.

Links:

twitter | facebook | soundcloud

“Trap Queen” (Remix): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h4V2qocqoSc

“Planet of the Apes”: http://vevo.ly/LYgSw7

“Coco” (Remix): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2g1xGqHPCpQ

“Ice Cream Truck”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XEC2avceTxY

“Try Me” (Remix): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IVPPTC7HePQ

“Holy Ghost”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0OfiCyBHvBI

Cursed With A Blessing: http://www.livemixtapes.com/mixtapes/31065/montana-of-300-cursed-with-a-blessing.html

END

02.26.2015

With His #MAXO187 Mixtape Releasing Next Week, the Houston, TX Rapper Enlists Awful Records Artist Father For An Ode To the Trap and Instagram, Premiered By Complex

Press Release

With His #MAXO187 Mixtape Releasing Next Week, the Houston, TX Rapper Enlists Awful Records Artist Father For An Ode To the Trap and Instagram, Premiered By Complex

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MP3: Maxo Kream ft. Father – “Cell Boomin” (Prod. by Wxlf Gxd)

With His #MAXO187 Mixtape Releasing Next Week, the Houston, TX Rapper Enlists Awful Records Artist Father For An Ode To the Trap and Instagram, Premiered By Complex

02.26.2015

The Song:

Inspired by the trap and Instagram, gold-grilled Houston rapper Maxo Kream releases an ode to hustling-by-phone with “Cell Boomin,” featuring Mr. “Flip Phone Nokia” Father. The Wxlf Gxd-produced trap rap anthem premiered via Complex, and it’s the latest single from Maxo Kream’s #MAXO187 mixtape, which releases March 5th and includes features from artists Joey Bada$$, the Sauce Twinz, and Fredo Santana.

“Cell Boomin” is an aggressive track, yet it drives with its minimal, cell phone-sampling production. “The ups of trappin’ on the phone is that people don’t knock on your door,” Maxo Kream explains, adding “the downs is that they blow your phone up when you’re out.” Maxo tells Complex in their premiere post that he met the featured Awful Records rapper at Fools Gold Day Off in Miami, and he chose to get him on the track because “he knows about phones and Instagram bitches.” Following video singles “Clientele,” “End Zone,” and “Trigga Maxo,” “Cell Boomin” supports Maxo’s unmistakable persona, giving audiences a glimpse before the release of his highly anticipated project, #MAXO187.

Maxo Kream’s previous release, QuiccStrikes, was named by Complex as one of 2013’s Best Houston Rap Mixtapes. Additionally, Noisey interviewed the rapper about his “beautiful, terrifying, and amazing” video for “Lewinsky,” and he received praise from Cocaine Blunts who named his “Whitney Houston” single one of 2013’s best raps. With more than a year between releases, Maxo Kream’s long-awaited #MAXO187 mixtape is releases March 5th.

Listen to “Cell Boomin”: https://soundcloud.com/maxo-kream/cell-boomin-ft-father

Check out the premiere: http://www.complex.com/music/2015/02/maxo-kream-feat-father-cell-boomin

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Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Maxo Kream.

Maxo Kream Background:

Links:

official site | twitter | instagram | soundcloud

“Cell Boomin”: https://soundcloud.com/maxo-kream/cell-boomin-ft-father

“End Zone”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGtCyxywwsA

“Clientele”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1rMjJUk80s

“Trigga Maxo”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HW28GbO9q5k

Bio, pictures, and streams available here: http://www.audibletreats.com/maxo-kream

END

– SPIN

“He’s a great rapper who you can imagine killing it at open mics, cyphers and old-school styled club nights.” – PotholesInMyBlog

“You’ll find WAVES incorporates several different genres within it’s overall hip-hop vibe– electronic, rock, and blues are some of the other elements tapped…” – HotNewHipHop

“The rising rapper […] has continued to dominate his own lane… Prob will have you locked in.” – XXL

“…just one conversation with ProbCause is enough to make you realize that he’s deeper than even his most serious lyrics suggest.” – Chicagoist.com

“The lanky MC’s vocal gymnastics have an elastic flow… he raps like a fan in the crowd hollering at the DJ to pump up the volume.” – Chicago Reader

“It’s diverse, veering from slower flows erring in the sub-genre of jazz-rap to hard-hitting, hard-spitting electro-rap. It’s a perfect summer project…” – HillyDilly

“In Chicago and beyond, ProbCause is one to watch. His skills, creativity and persona are refreshing and unlike much else. There is a spin on everything that sounds and feels distinctly his. In both the rap game and the art world he is changing the rules.” – FakeShoreDrive.com

The Remix:

ProbCause teams up with electronic producer Manic Focus to lay down his rhymes on a remix of Exmag‘s “Tilt Mode” ft. Gibbz, which premiered via ThisSongIsSick. ThisSongIsSick previously reviewed the original funky-smooth track, calling it “a blend of sexy live soulful energy with an unreal electronic twist.” Exmag has previously collaborated with ProbCause on the Chicago rapper’s WAVES EP, working in electronic-rock-inspired production. On this remix of “Tilt Mode,” ProbCause gives a fresh take on the banger and weaves his rhymes through it, complementing Gibbz’ soulful singing with his swooning raps.

ProbCause recently released an EP with Hologram Kizzie, fka Psalm One, as ZRO FOX. The project displays a range of hip-hop, trap, and wavy electro-spirited cuts, showing a musical chemistry that reaches new creative heights. “The EP offers plenty of thought-provoking rhymes and intense production for fans of alt-leaning hip-hop,” said Consequence of Sound in their premiere post. ProbCause, a prolific rapper with a sound that jumps from hip-hop, to electronic, to RnB, and then back to a classic boom-bap gritty rap, has the ability to tell stories that make audiences reminisce. With his indisputably savvy bars, percussive delivery, and versatile production skills, he’s at the head of the pack of promising new Chicago artists.

Listen to “Tilt Mode” – Exmag ft. Gibbz (Manic Focus and ProbCause Remix): https://soundcloud.com/manicfocus/exmag-feat-gibbs-tilt-mode-manic-focus-and-probcause-remix

Check out the ThisSongIsSick premiere: http://thissongissick.com/blog/2015/exmag-tilt-mode-manic-focus-probcause-remix/

Stream the ZRO FOX EP: https://soundcloud.com/bonafyderecords/sets/zro-fox

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with ProbCause.

ProbCause Background:

ProbCause is a prolific rapper and a painter too. Between performing at SXSW, North Coast, Costa Rica, and tour dates nation-wide, ProbCause is keeping busy and inspiring fellow students at the School of the Art Institute in Chicago. His sound, which jumps from hip-hop, to electronic, to RnB, and then back to a classic boom-bap gritty rap, helped get him signed to high-profile booking agency Paradigm. With stories that make you reminisce and a percussive delivery that highlights his versatile production skills, ProbCause is at the head of the pack of promising new Chicago artists.

Links:

“Tilt Mode” – Exmag ft. Gibbz (Manic Focus and ProbCause Remix): https://soundcloud.com/manicfocus/exmag-feat-gibbs-tilt-mode-manic-focus-and-probcause-remix

ZRO FOX EP: https://soundcloud.com/bonafyderecords/sets/zro-fox

“Might Not” ft. Sasha Go Hard: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=05jiqtBg1jY

“Might Not” ft. Sasha Go Hard: https://soundcloud.com/bonafyderecords/might-not-ft-sasha-go-hard

WAVES EP: https://soundcloud.com/probcause/sets/waves

“Chicago Style”: http://youtu.be/-msZxXK6xXg

“Chicago Style”: https://soundcloud.com/probcause/chicago-style

“LSD” (Hood Internet Remix): https://soundcloud.com/probcause/lsd-ft-chance-the-rapper-hood-internet-remix

“LSD” (feat. Chance the Rapper): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfwGplBrAKc

“Flex”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwjG7ZRTcNQ

“LSD” (feat. Chance the Rapper): https://soundcloud.com/probcause/lsd

“Three Course Meal” (feat. Action Bronson and Chance the Rapper): https://soundcloud.com/probcause/probcause-three-course-meal

Bio, photos, and streams available here: http://www.audibletreats.com/probcause/

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02.26.2015

The Chicago Rapper and Electronic-Soul Producer Flip a Funky Remix, Premiered By ThisSongIsSick

Press Release

The Chicago Rapper and Electronic-Soul Producer Flip a Funky Remix, Premiered By ThisSongIsSick

Go to Post

Remix: ProbCause & Manic Focus Remix Exmag ft. Gibbz – “Tilt Mode”

The Chicago Rapper and Electronic-Soul Producer Flip a Funky Remix, Premiered By ThisSongIsSick

02.26.2015

Critical Praise for ProbCause:

“ProbCause nimbly rides fusion-friendly hip-hop tracks; there’s the DJ Screwed-up dubstep buzzer ‘Ego Trip’ and the ecstatic rap-rock track ‘Neon Dreams.'” – SPIN

“He’s a great rapper who you can imagine killing it at open mics, cyphers and old-school styled club nights.” – PotholesInMyBlog

“You’ll find WAVES incorporates several different genres within it’s overall hip-hop vibe– electronic, rock, and blues are some of the other elements tapped…” – HotNewHipHop

“The rising rapper […] has continued to dominate his own lane… Prob will have you locked in.” – XXL

“…just one conversation with ProbCause is enough to make you realize that he’s deeper than even his most serious lyrics suggest.” – Chicagoist.com

“The lanky MC’s vocal gymnastics have an elastic flow… he raps like a fan in the crowd hollering at the DJ to pump up the volume.” – Chicago Reader

“It’s diverse, veering from slower flows erring in the sub-genre of jazz-rap to hard-hitting, hard-spitting electro-rap. It’s a perfect summer project…” – HillyDilly

The Remix:

Listen to “Tilt Mode” – Exmag ft. Gibbz (Manic Focus and ProbCause Remix): https://soundcloud.com/manicfocus/exmag-feat-gibbs-tilt-mode-manic-focus-and-probcause-remix

Check out the ThisSongIsSick premiere: http://thissongissick.com/blog/2015/exmag-tilt-mode-manic-focus-probcause-remix/

Stream the ZRO FOX EP: https://soundcloud.com/bonafyderecords/sets/zro-fox

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with ProbCause.

ProbCause Background:

Links:

“Tilt Mode” – Exmag ft. Gibbz (Manic Focus and ProbCause Remix): https://soundcloud.com/manicfocus/exmag-feat-gibbs-tilt-mode-manic-focus-and-probcause-remix

ZRO FOX EP: https://soundcloud.com/bonafyderecords/sets/zro-fox

“Might Not” ft. Sasha Go Hard: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=05jiqtBg1jY

“Might Not” ft. Sasha Go Hard: https://soundcloud.com/bonafyderecords/might-not-ft-sasha-go-hard

WAVES EP: https://soundcloud.com/probcause/sets/waves

“Chicago Style”: http://youtu.be/-msZxXK6xXg

“Chicago Style”: https://soundcloud.com/probcause/chicago-style

“LSD” (Hood Internet Remix): https://soundcloud.com/probcause/lsd-ft-chance-the-rapper-hood-internet-remix

“LSD” (feat. Chance the Rapper): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfwGplBrAKc

“Flex”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwjG7ZRTcNQ

“LSD” (feat. Chance the Rapper): https://soundcloud.com/probcause/lsd

“Three Course Meal” (feat. Action Bronson and Chance the Rapper): https://soundcloud.com/probcause/probcause-three-course-meal

Bio, photos, and streams available here: http://www.audibletreats.com/probcause/

END

02.25.2015

New Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 171 Features Bobby Brackins, A-1, Opio x Free the Robots, Iamsu!, and Wasiu

Press Release

New Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 171 Features Bobby Brackins, A-1, Opio x Free the Robots, Iamsu!, and Wasiu

Go to Post

Podcast: Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 171

New Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 171 Features Bobby Brackins, A-1, Opio x Free the Robots, Iamsu!, and Wasiu

02.25.2015

The Podcast:

We’re kicking off Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 171 with “My Jam” by Bobby Brackins, which features February Teen Vogue cover girl Zendaya and R&B singer Jeremih. The track is yet another hit from Brackins, who penned Tinashe’s “2On” and Chris Brown’s “Loyal.” With increasing recognition as a solo artist, Bobby is ready to step into the spotlight in 2015. Following “My Jam” is prolific San Francisco rapper A-1’s single “There I Go,” which features production from Mr. Carmack. The track received rave from Noisey, who premiered the track saying “A-1 takes an absolute monster of a Mr. Carmack instrumental and cowties it into something that sounds so vital and absolutely hyphy that it pretty much had to come from the Bay.” Continuing the podcast with more West Coast vibes is “Let the Bass Go” from a new duo featuring legendary Hiero rapper Opio and Los Angeles beatmaker Free the Robots. The pair experiments with psychadelic, progressive sounds on their forthcoming EP, The Subconscious Mind, which releases March 3. We follow the heavy tune with “Nothin Less” from Iamsu!, one of the main architects responsible for the “New Bay” sound that’s dominating airwaves. Iamsu! premiered his new EP, Eyes On Me, this week via Billboard. “The song is about progression…The lyrics describe my aspirations as a artist and a man. I want to give kids bigger aspire to. I things to talk about owning companies and employing people, I want to be a boss and an artist like Jay-Z, Dr. Dre, or Master P.” Next, we’re ushering in Montreal rapper Wasiu with his single “Physical.” The track is an oscillating production guided by whistles and softly-stricken piano keys. The visual for “Physical,” which premiered via Noisey, shows Wasiu rocking over $40,000 worth of outfits, including pieces by Saint Laurent, Rick Owens, Margiela, and Bape, along with a Louis Vuitton duffle bag while he lays down the truth to his side chick—she’s just a number. This concludes Podcast 171; we hope you enjoy this collection of slappers while planning your next trip to the West Coast. Stay tuned for more.

Listen to Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 171: https://soundcloud.com/audibletreats/audible-treats-hip-hop-podcast-171

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Links:

Subscribe to the Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcasts:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/audible-treats-hip-hop-podcast/id111088410?mt=2

Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 167 – Lyrics Born, Jahzel, Devin Miles, Wara From The NBHD, and C-Money:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-167/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2
https://soundcloud.com/audibletreats/audible-treats-hip-hop-podcast-167

Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 166 – C-Money, Devin Miles, Kilz, Black Milk, and THE BL∆CK HE∆RTS CLUB:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-166/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2
https://soundcloud.com/audibletreats/audible-treats-hip-hop-podcast-166

END

02.25.2015

’15 Bonnie and Clyde: Jahzel Steals His Own Album Artwork In “The Vision” Video, Premiered By RedEye Chicago

Press Release

’15 Bonnie and Clyde: Jahzel Steals His Own Album Artwork In “The Vision” Video, Premiered By RedEye Chicago

Go to Post

Video: Jahzel – “The Vision”

Premiered by Chicago’s RedEye, the Windy City Rapper Follows the Release of His Album, The Wake Up, With a Captivating Visual

02.25.2015

Critical Praise for Jahzel:

“Jahzel’s first impression is a solid one.” – The Smoking Section

“This is music with few hang-ups…perfect for a summer hip-hop playlist.” – PrefixMag

“Jahzel’s future brightens with every new release… we’re excited to hear more.” – HotNewHipHop

The Video:

Every man needs a partner in crime. Luckily, Jahzel finds his in the video for “The Vision” from his recently released album, The Wake Up. The video, which premiered via RedEye Chicago, is set on a snowy day in the Windy City where Jahzel and his leading lady play the 2015 version of Bonnie and Clyde. “Jahzel and a partner become hardened criminals as they attempt a dangerous art heist on Chicago’s streets,” states the RedEye. “While it’s a somewhat gritty clip, Jahzel’s prowess behind the mic and his adventurous ear for beats manage to be both intense and accessible.”

Like a hip-hop version of the DaVinci Code, Jahzel is tasked with securing a prized piece of art. Unknown to the viewer, what the conniving duo are actually stealing is the cover art to Jahzel’s project, The Wake Up. Interspersed throughout the narrative is Jahzel rapping on a cold corner as he and his partner plan and execute the raid of a warehouse. Both the video and song represent the two sides of Jahzel. “The Vision” is both a lyrically dense narrative mixed with a knack for Jahzel’s commercially appealing hooks over hypnotic beats. Through a chopped and screwed drawl Jahzel spits on the chorus, “Windows down, music bumping, we’re just chilling, feeling epic, coastin’.” The Chicago rapper mixes a Houston indebted flavor to the hook, while still keeping his roots to the Chi clear.

Jahzel and his team have an on-going webisode series, The Collective, that’s being presented by HipHopDX and shows the conflict and struggles that happen behind-the-scenes of an up-start indie label. Jahzel’s project The Wake Up maintains his tradition of beautifully composed projects, as he seeks to provide a worldwide awakening to the complexities of growing up in the inner city of Chicago, complete with its snares, daily moral challenges, and overall limited options. Whether it’s the autobiographical “Faithful” premiered by HotNewHipHop, or the crew anthem “Who Is You?!” debuted by 2DopeBoyz, Jahzel has delivered quality content in the lead-up to his second album. Like his track “John Stockton/Radio Raheem,” which dropped via XXL, every song from his album plays upon his past growing up in Chicago and the bright future he has charted for himself.

Watch “The Vision”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQtdWIogcCQ

Check out the premiere: http://www.redeyechicago.com/music/redeye-jahzel-the-vision-video-20150223-htmlstory.html

Listen to The Wake Up: https://soundcloud.com/jahzelmusic/sets/the-wake-up

Purchase The Wake Up on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/the-wake-up/id959982460?ls=1

Jahzel – The Wake Up, tracklist:
1.Wake Up!
2.Who Is You?!
3.John Stockton / Radio Raheem
4.The Vision
5.Trapt
6.Crazy
7.Seedlings
8.No Tears No Tissue
9.Scriptures
10.Faithful

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Jahzel.

Jahzel Background:

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | youtube

“The Vision”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQtdWIogcCQ

“Faithful”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sSUQSujTKmU / https://soundcloud.com/jahzelmusic/faithful/s-ZOWnH

“John Stockton / Radio Raheem”: https://soundcloud.com/jahzelmusic/03-john-stockton-radio-raheem/s-V210C

“Who Is You?!”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8fpML8OnG6Y / https://soundcloud.com/jahzelmusic/who-is-you/

“Wake Up!”: http://youtu.be/4usNJYRSD2s / https://soundcloud.com/jahzelmusic/wake-up

The Wake Up: https://soundcloud.com/jahzelmusic/sets/the-wake-up

“The Collective” Webisode Series, Episode 4: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jg1JzB41BF8

“The Collective” Webisode Series, Episode 3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALICOKg2TIg

“The Collective” Webisode Series, Episode 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vq43BRI9pBI

“The Collective” Webisode Series, Episode 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yeOr0vAGnBg

Bio, pictures, and streams available here: http://www.audibletreats.com/jahzel

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