Video: Noelz Vedere – “Promise Land” (feat. Kaye Fox, Ben Official and Kiara Lanier) 

Chicago Rapper Noelz Vedere Premieres Visuals for New Music Video on HYPETRAK

06.03.2014

Critical Praise for Noelz Vedere:

“Noelz Vedere is ready to represent Chi-Town… This is a name to watch this year.” – Earmilk

“Advanced song writing skill, sharp delivery presence, unorthodox rhyming and smooth melodics.” – HYPETRAK

“…it’ll become quickly apparent that he fits in with the realm of recent rap studs coming out of the city (Chicago).” – Potholes In My Blog

“This is an awesome display of rapping right here.” – Kevin Nottingham

“He raps with the strength of a thousand emcees. He steps to the mic and delivers his potent bars in a feverish, aggressive, cutting flow that drives the record more than the prodigious boardwork.” – DJBooth

“This right here is tough as hell… Noelz has our attention.” – OnSMASH 

The Video:

Filmed at a condemned church that’s been abandoned for over 20 years, Chicago rapper Noelz Vedere chose a special location for the set of the video “Promise Land” from his new album Bittersweet Victory. The delapidated interior of St. Boniface Church provided the perfect nuance for Noelz’ re-creation of his own funeral. Today, HYPETRAK premieres the video for the song which took over five months for Noelz to create.

Vedere states, “I wanted to create something powerful that takes the listeners on an extreme roller coaster of emotions.” Following this aesthetic, the melodic and uplifting track opens with soft piano flirting with minor and major 7th chords before progressing into reverb-soaked percussion. The track predominately features live instrumentation and a booming chorus sung by American Idol Season 13 contestant Kiara Lanier, Kaye Fox and Ben Official.

The track features lyrics that paint a harrowing narrative of his life in Chicago, the struggles he faces, and touts perseverance as a virtue with lyrics such as, “Tryin’ to move my homies from the streets / I got to tell my momma I will make it next year / Pray it to the Lord.”

The contrast of the damaged, abandoned church with its innate beauty, parallels the message of the song and video. According to Vedere, “The record is about escaping a negative place in hopes of reaching something positive, so the balance of both good and bad happening at the same time.” Re-birth and all that comes with renewal and reflection was the focus behind Noelz’ set choice, the choir, and the angelic ballerina. Vedere emphasizes, “Surrounding misfortune, you can always find something beautiful and one should never settle for anything less than what you deserve.”

Check out the HYPETRAK premiere here: http://hypetrak.com/2014/06/premiere-noelz-vedere-promise-land/

Watch “Promise Land” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hnJ4OL5gk80

Listen to Bittersweet Victory: https://soundcloud.com/noelzvedere/sets/bittersweetvictory

Download Bittersweet Victory: http://www.bittersweetvictory.com/

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Tracklist for Noelz Vedere – Bittersweet Victory:

01-”Promise Land” (ft. Kaye Fox, Ben Official, & Kiara Lanier)
02-”Let Me Burn”
03-”Blackout”
04-”Out of Focus” (ft. Freddie Gibbs)
05-”Bittersweet” (ft. Sunni Colon)
06-”So Blessed”
07-”Censored Love” (ft. Kiara Lanier)
08-”High Class” (ft. Sir Michael Rocks)
09-”Garden of Eden” (ft. Jahzel, A-Cross, & Chris Alonzo)
10-”Fallen Soldier”

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Noelz Vedere.

Noelz Vedere Background:

Chicago, Illinois has hip-hop’s spotlight for 2014. From a global superstar like Kanye West to emerging talents like Chance The Rapper, the crossroads between the East and the West has a colorful youth movement with new approaches to music-making. That is especially true of Noelz Vedere, a 24 year-old hip-hop artist from the rarely chronicled Northside of the city. “I literally have friends who own houses in the hundreds of thousands, and I have friends who are below the poverty line,” he explains, of his music’s place. “Me being in the middle, it exposes me to so many aspects of life. I can relate to what Chief Keef is saying, what Chance is talking about, and what Rockie Fresh is creating. There’s so much beauty in Chicago right now.”

The Windy City’s complexity plays well against Noelz’ recently released studio debut, Bittersweet Victory. The album, featuring Freddie Gibbs and The Cool Kids’ Sir Michael Rocks, is heavy on both inspiration and aspiration. “My first project (Popular Kid) came out and I got a lot of local recognition, but at the same time it wasn’t where I wanted to be. There are still a lot of gatekeepers and doors with keys I’m trying to find. So I feel that I’m blossoming into my glory, but it’s still a bittersweet feeling.” In 2011, Noelz burst onto the scene in a way that was even shocking to him. A song he recorded with would-be Maybach Music Group artist Rockie Fresh and Kids These Days frontman Vic Mensa mysteriously leaked to the web, with sites large and small showing “King Me” to the court. “I had never gotten so much exposure in my life,” Noelz admits, as he rushed to feed the masses a body of work. Popular Kid, a reference to the overnight exposure, dropped quickly after. Vedere now says the hasty process made him adopt a slower, refined approach to his sophomore release.

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | instagram | youtube | soundcloud

“Promise Land” (ft. Kaye Fox, Ben Official and Kiara Lanier) Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LWdYVCKHr3I

MP3: Stick Figure – “Smokin’ Love” ft. Collie Buddz

Cali-based Roots Reggae Group Stick Figure Release Summertime Anthem-worthy Song Premiered by Indie Shuffle

06.03.2014

Critical Praise for Stick Figure:

“Stick Figure possesses a unique style of music that combines a creative blend of upbeat roots reggae with the reverberating echoes of dub, and no limit for musical abilities.” – Saint Rocke

“The music of Stick Figure is taking Roots Reggae Dub to new heights.” – Branch Out Music

The Song:

Today, Southern California-based roots reggae/dub band Stick Figure release their latest single, “Smokin’ Love,” featuring reggae veteran Collie Buddz, offering a strong contender for “Best Feel-Good Song of the Summer.” “Smokin’ Love” is the first song they’ve released since their 2012 album Burial Ground.

The track “Smokin’ Love” opens with swirling piano chords, catchy lyrics highlighting the band’s signature dub sound. The track details multi-instrumentalist, producer and singer Scott Woodruff’s upbeat narrative of wanting to smoke with the one he loves, highlighted in the lyrics:

“I wanna get high, I wanna get low, come on I wanna smoke little spliff with you / Lord knows I’m not a fool, I’m Just crazy for you.”

“Smokin’ Love” was recorded the same way as all their songs; in Woodruff’s home studio with each instrument individually recorded and layered in unison to one other. The band has previewed the track through their social media sites and have recently started playing it live. The group will be hitting the road this Summer with Rebelution for their “Count Me In” tour, which also includes Iration and The Green.

Purchase “Smokin’ Love” ft. Collie Buddz: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/smokin-love-feat.-collie-buddz/id874660140

Check out the Indie Shuffle premiere: http://www.indieshuffle.com/stick-figure-smokin-love-ft-collie-buddz/

Listen on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/stickfigure/smokin-love-feat-collie-buddz/

Tour Dates (shows are with Rebelution, The Green, Iration and DJ Mackle unless otherwise noted): http://www.stickfiguremusic.com/tour-dates/

6/12 – House of Blues Boston – Boston, MA
6/13 – Stone Pony Summer Stage – Ashbury, NJ
6/14 – Festival Pier – Philadelphia, PA
6/15 – Pier Six Concert Pavilion – Baltimore, MD
6/18 – Innsbrook Pavilion – Glenn Valley, VA
6/19 – House of Blues Myrtle Beach – North Myrtle Beach, SC
6/20 – The Fillmore – Charlotte, NC
6/21 – nTelos Wireless Pavilion – Portsmouth, VA
6/25 & 6/26 – Jannus Live – St Petersburg, FL
6/27 – St Augustine Amphitheathre – St Augustine, FL
6/28 – Riverfront Park –  Cocoa, FL
6/29 – The Tabernacle – Atlanta, GA
7/1 – The Chicken Box – Nantucket, MA *solo show
7/2 – The Chicken Box – Nantucket, MA *solo show
7/6 – Kelly’s – Nag’s Head, NC *solo show
7/7 – Seacrets – Ocean City, MD *solo show
7/8 – Stephen Talkhouse – Amangasett, NY *solo show
7/11 – The Dive Bar (Martha’s Vineyard) – Oak Bluffs, MA *solo show
8/6 – Mesa Amphitheatre – Mesa, AZ
8/7 – Cal Coast Credit Union Open Theatre @ SDSU – San Diego, CA
8/8 – Cal Coast Credit Union Open Theatre @ SDSU – San Diego, CA
8/13 – North Tahoe Regional Park – Tahoe Vista, CA
8/15 – Santa Barbara Bowl – Santa Barbara, VA
8/16 – Greek Theatre, U.C.Berkeley – Berkeley, CA
8/17 – Cuthroat Amphitheatre – Eugene, OR
8/19 – Kings County’s Marymoor Park – Redmond, WA
8/21 – Big Skew Brewing Company – Missoula, MT
8/22 – The Great Saltair – Magna, UT
8/23 – Star Waves Food and Culture Fest – Woodbury, CT *with Third World
9/13 – California Roots: The Carolina Sessions – Wilmington, NC *with Iration

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Stick Figure.

Stick Figure Background:

Southern California Roots Reggae favorites Stick Figure, are one of the few acts that are able to consistently reinvent themselves in the Reggae world. Stylistically unique, the band is able to build on their Reggae and Dub influences while creating a style completely their own. Multi-instrumentalist, producer and front man Scott Woodruff, fathered the group and is noted for his innovative style of recording; individually playing each instrument and multi-tracking them in unison. His touring band features Kevin Bong (Keyboards), Kevin Offitzer (Drums) and Tommy Suliman (Bass) and have played along side the likes of SOJA, Collie Buddz, Alpha Blondy and The Expendables. Having 5 full-length albums, selling over 50,000 albums worldwide and charting #1 on both the Reggae ITunes and Billboard charts the band shows no signs of stopping any time soon. Stick Figure kicks off the summer with the June 3rd release of “Smokin’ Love” a feel good anthem featuring Collie Buddz and will be hitting the road with Rebelution for their “Count Me In” tour, along side Reggae favorites Iration and The Green.

Links:

twitter | instagram | facebook | bandcamp | soundcloud

“Smokin’ Love” ft. Collie Buddz: https://soundcloud.com/stickfigure/smokin-love-feat-collie-buddz/s-VFGtt

Smoke Stack: https://soundcloud.com/stickfigure/sets/smoke-stack

Burial Ground: https://soundcloud.com/stickfigure/sets/burial-ground

MP3: Blanco, Husalah, Kokane – “Grief and His Due” (feat. The Jacka & Boo Banga; prod. by DJ Burn One)

SPIN Debuts First Single from Bay Area Trio’s Forthcoming Tortoise and the Hare EP

05.30.2014

 The Song:

Bay Area rappers Blanco, Husalah (of the Mob Figaz), and legendary G-Funk crooner Kokane have teamed up to release “Grief and His Due.” Debuting with SPIN, the single serves as promotion for their forthcoming joint EP, Tortoise and the Hare, which is produced in-full by DJ Burn One and due out June 17th on Guerrilla Entertainment. “The track is a posse cut that struts along lo-fi, VHS-addled, funk complete with some Eddie Hazel-like guitar,” says SPIN of the track that also features the Jacka and Boo Banga. Rhyming over sustained guitars about the struggles one needs to encounter to thrive as a rapper, Kokane harmonizes on the chorus, singing “Ain’t nothing change but the weather, I’m still the same / Before you have pleasure, you’ve got to have pain,” while Blanco kicks off his verse rapping “I sacrificed my sanity and buried all my morals / Started acting hungry and stopped acting cordial.”

“Grief and His Due” follows the release of another collaborative EP from Blanco. In April, Blanco teamed up with rap vets The Jacka and Messy Marv for the One Hunnid EP. Produced entirely by Grammy Award-winning production duo Tha Bizness, the project includes features from YG, Freeway, Nipsey Hussle, and Trae The Truth. The EP was met with praise, as RapReviews writes that the “whole album has a smooth cruising feeling to it.”

Listen to “Grief and His Due”: https://soundcloud.com/iamguerrilla/grief-and-his-due-blanco-husalah-kokane-featuring-the-jacka-boo-banga/

Check out the SPIN premiere: http://www.spin.com/articles/kokane-blanco-husalah-burn-one-grief-and-his-due-premiere/

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

Blanco Background:

Blanco (formerly Benny Blanco) is a rapper born in Berkeley, California but bred throughout the Bay Area. Fascinated by gangsta rap at an early age, Blanco began rhyming at 17. In 2004, he and his brother founded hip-hop label Guerilla Entertainment, which to date has released upwards of over 20 mixtapes and albums. As a member of rap trio The Yay Boyz with fellow label mates Taj-He-Spitz and Lil Hyfe, Blanco released Got Purp (Volumes 1 and 2), The Wizeguys, and full-length album Nosebleed Muzic. He has gone on to release several solo projects, including Blanco’s Way and American Pyscho, and more collaborative albums, including Jonestown with Messy Marv and Jacka, and his latest, Raw, with Nipsey Hussle. Blanco has also collaborated with Gucci Mane, Redman, Freeway, Freddie Gibbs and Styles P, and released projects with Araab Muzik and Yukmouth. 

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | youtube  

“Grief and His Due”: https://soundcloud.com/iamguerrilla/grief-and-his-due-blanco-husalah-kokane-featuring-the-jacka-boo-banga/

“The Grassy Knoll”: https://soundcloud.com/iamguerrilla/the-grassy-knoll-featuring

Purchase One Hunnid EP: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/one-hunnid/id845403974

Stream One Hunnid EP: https://soundcloud.com/iamguerrilla/sets/one-hunnid-blanco-the-jacka

“Change,” feat. Nipsey Hussle: https://soundcloud.com/iamguerrilla/change-blanco-the-jacka-messy

“9/11,” feat. YG: https://soundcloud.com/iamguerrilla/9-11-blanco-the-jacka-messy

OBEY: https://soundcloud.com/iamguerrilla/sets/obey-blanco-the-jacka/

Misfits: https://soundcloud.com/iamguerrilla/sets/blanco-the-jacka-misfits-1

“Punch Out”: https://soundcloud.com/empiredistribution/blanco-punch-out-feat-trae-tha

“Duck Hunt”: https://soundcloud.com/empiredistribution/blanco-the-jacka-duck-hunt-ft

Raw: https://soundcloud.com/empiredistribution/sets/nipsey-hussle-blanco-raw-full

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

MP3: ProbCause – “Pale Moonlight” ft. Donnie Trumpet

and KSRA

Melancholy, Jazz-Infused Second Single Shows Versatility of Chicago Rapper’s WAVES EP

05.27.2014

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

“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 Song:

Earlier this month, SPIN debuted Chicago rapper ProbCause’s WAVES EP for stream and free download. The release followed the trap/juke-inspired “Chicago Style” single and video, as well as the Hood Internet’s remix of the Chance the Rapper-featuring “LSD,” and a 40-city tour with electro-pop duo Cherub. While on tour, ProbCause would travel home, often on Tuesdays and Wednesdays to attend classes at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where he just received his MFA for painting and drawing. Needless to say, it’s been a busy few months for the MC that also designs his own cover art.

ProbCause’s latest single, “Pale Moonlight,” is a melancholy, jazz-infused soundscape that features trumpeter Donnie Trumpet and vocalist KSRA, with additional production by Wes P. “Jewels, brilliantine/Stardom and majesty/Like a king to riches, pursue the brilliant skin that’s me/Cause I can’t scream that loud – I’ma treasure – quiet like Chicago crowds,” sings KSRA on the song’s chorus. ProbCause explains, “she’s basically talking about being out on the town, all done up and knowing that she’s a queen whether other people know it or not. She’s a quiet queen.” The song has proven to be a fan favorite, having exceeded 80K listens on Soundcloud since the EP’s release just two weeks ago.

Listen to “Pale Moonlight” ft. Donnie Trumpet and KSRA (prod. Wes P): https://soundcloud.com/probcause/pale-moonlight-ft-donnie-trumpet-and-ksra-wes-p

Check out the SPIN premiere of WAVES: http://www.spin.com/articles/probcause-waves-ep-stream/

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

ProbCause – WAVES EP tracklist:
1 – “Meditate” (Prod. by Two Fresh)
2 – “Ego Trip” (feat. Fluffy) (Prod. by Fortified Sounds)
3 – “Neon Dreams” (Prod. by Exmag)
4 – “Pairadice” (Prod. by Drew Mantia)
5 – “Chicago Style” (feat. Twista) (Prod. by Fortified Sounds & Drew Mantia)
6 – “Breezy” (feat. Gibbz) (Prod. by Cofresi)
7 – “One of a Kind” (feat. The O’MY’s) (Prod. by Carter)
8 – “Pale Moonlight” (feat. Donnie Trumpet & KSRA) (Prod. by Wes P.)
9 – “Back in the Day” (feat. Psalm One & KSRA (Prod. by Drew Mantia)
10 – “LSD (Hood Internet Remix)” (feat. Chance the Rapper) (Prod. by The Hood Internet)

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

ProbCause Background:

We drew a line in the sand, and ProbCause crossed it. Over and over again. Eventually, we gave up on drawing lines and left that to him. Not only is ProbCause a prolific rapper, but a painter too. Between SXSW, North Coast, Costa Rica, and tour dates nation-wide, ProbCause is keeping busy. When he’s not on the road doing shows, he’s getting friendly with his paintbrush and inspiring fellow students at the School of the Art Institute in Chicago. His sound jumps from hip hop, to electronic, to R & B, and then back to a classic boom-bap gritty rap. With stories that make you reminisce and a percussive delivery that highlights his versatile production, ProbCause is one of the most dynamic touring acts.

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | instagram | soundcloud | bandcamp

“Pale Moonlight” (feat. Donnie Trumpet and KSRA) : https://soundcloud.com/probcause/pale-moonlight-ft-donnie-trumpet-and-ksra-wes-p

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/

Video: Jarren Benton – “XXL Freshmen 2014: Jarren Benton Freestyle”

Funk Volume Rapper Continues Touring, Set to Perform at XXL Freshmen Showcase in NYC on June 9th

05.27.2014

Critical Praise for Jarren Benton:

“Benton has an extraordinarily nimble flow and sense of rhythm.” – HipHopDX

“…already creating his own lane and plans to turn a lot of heads.” – XXL

“As [My Grandmas Basement] unfolds, one thing becomes clear: [Jarren Benton] can handle himself just fine.” – Creative Loafing, 4/5 review

The Video:

Alas, XXL shares Jarren Benton‘s Freshmen 2014 freestyle. “My brain works like a deranged jerk,” he raps acapella, before threatening “f*ck eggs, I will throw Justin Beiber at your house.” After winning the “People’s Choice” vote, Benton was announced as one of ten rappers to be featured in XXL’s Freshmen Class of 2014. “I owe all that shit to just fans, man,” says Jarren in a recent interview with HipHopDX about the accomplishment, adding “I contribute all that shit to them. That’s the only reason I’m on that bitch is because they go so hard for it.” Following Funk Volume label mates Hopsin (Class of 2012) and Dizzy Wright (Class of 2013), Benton’s win makes the label the first to have had artists included for three consecutive years.

On June 9th, Benton will be performing at the Best Buy Theater in NYC for the XXL Freshmen 2014 showcase, alongside his Class of 2014 peers – Chance The Rapper, Isaiah Rashad, Ty Dolla $ign, Rich Homie Quan, Vic Mensa, August Alsina, Troy Ave, Kevin Gates, Lil Bibby and Jon Connor. Before and after that date, Benton will continue on Tech N9ne‘s 70+ city Independent Grind Tour, which is working its way down the West Coast and into the South.

Watch the XXL Freshmen 2014 Freestyle video: http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/05/jarren-benton-xxl-freshmen-2014/

Check out Jarren’s XXL Freshman Profile: http://www.xxlmag.com/xxl-freshmen-2014/2014/05/jarren-benton-2/

Interview with HipHopDX: http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/interviews/id.2405/title.jarren-benton-recalls-winning-over-funk-volume-s-fans-rapping-for-outkast

Interview with HotNewHipHop: http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/shooting-the-shit-with-jarren-benton-news.10661.html

Jarren is currently working on his next project and is on a 70-date tour with Tech N9ne and Freddie Gibbs. Tickets available here: http://myfunkvolume.com/artist/jarren-benton/

2014-05-27 – Midtown Music Hall – Bend, OR
2014-05-28 – The Historic Ashland Armory – Ashland, OR
2014-05-29 – Arcata Community Center – Arcata, CA
2014-05-30 – Knitting Factory Concert House – Reno – Reno, NV
2014-05-31 – Ace of Spades – Sacramento, CA
2014-06-01 – The Catalyst – (16+) – Santa Cruz, CA
2014-06-02 – The Regency Ballroom – San Francisco, CA
2014-06-03 – Riverside Auditorium & Events Center – (18+) – Riverside, CA
2014-06-04 – House of Blues – Sunset Strip – (18+) – West Hollywood, CA
2014-06-05 – House of Blues – San Diego – San Diego, CA
2014-06-07 – Marquee Theatre – Tempe, AZ
2014-06-08 – The Rialto Theatre – Tucson, AZ
2014-06-10 – Saltair – Magna, UT
2014-06-11 – Mesa Theater & Club – Grand Junction, CO
2014-06-12 – The Black Sheep – Colorado Springs, CO
2014-06-13 – Aggie Theatre – Fort Collins, CO
2014-06-15 – Sunshine Theater – (13+) – Albuquerque, NM
2014-06-16 – Tricky Falls – El Paso, TX
2014-06-17 – Cactus Courtyard – Lubbock, TX
2014-06-18 – Diamond Ballroom – Oklahoma City, OK
2014-06-19 – Lucky Mule Saloon – (18+) – Abilene, TX
2014-06-20 – Emo’s – Austin, TX
2014-06-21 – House of Blues – Houston – Houston, TX
2014-06-22 – House of Blues – Dallas – Dallas, TX
2014-06-24 – Cains Ballroom – Tulsa, OK
2014-06-25 – Cotillion Ballroom – Wichita, KS
2014-06-26 – R. C. McGraw’s – (16+) – Manhattan, KS
2014-06-27 – The Blue Note – Columbia, MO
2014-06-28 – Arvest Bank Theatre at the Midland – Kansas City, MO

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Jarren Benton.

Jarren Benton Background:

For an artist with serious mainstream aspirations, Decatur, Georgia’s Jarren Benton has spent his career going against the grain. One of Funk Volume’s premiere acts, Jarren admits, “I love the music I do now. I do it in the safe-mode.” That’s rather shocking for an artist whose last album, Freebasing With Kevin Bacon lived up to its name, at least in attitude and style, evident on single “Skitzo.” He continues, “I want to take it a lil’ further. I just haven’t had the balls to go all the way there yet, ‘cause I presently want to keep a foot in the mainstream too.” After two successful digital releases and a video with over one million YouTube plays, Jarren is currently promoting his Funk Volume debut album, My Grandmas Basement, which debuted at #4 on the iTunes Hip Hop Chart. In 2013, Jarren went on the My Grandma’s Basement Tour, his first ever headline U.S. tour and joined Rittz on his The Life And Times Tour. Benton is currently on tour with Tech N9ne on his Independent Grind Tour and was recently named a XXL Magazine Freshmen for 2014.

Funk Volume Background:

Funk Volume is a Los Angeles-based record label, marketing, and production company that been cited as a leader among independent rap labels with nearly 60 million YouTube views, over 400,000 Facebook likes, consistent Top 10 chart placements on Billboard and iTunes and high profile write-ups in media outlets such as Hypebot, Billboard, Huffington Post, SPIN, LA Weekly, and many more. Founded in 2008 by internationally recognized rap artist Hopsin and Stanford MBA grad Damien “Dame” Ritter, the label was created with one thing in mind: protecting the integrity of the artist’s vision. Currently home to rappers Hopsin, SwizZz, Dizzy Wright, and Jarren Benton and more recently, DJ’s and producers Hoppa, Kato, and Rikio, the label has quickly transformed into being a label to watch by fans and industry insiders alike. Funk Volume recently released their first documentary, Independent Living, which captures the artists’ swift rise during their 44-date national tour in 2012. The latest release from the Funk Volume label is marquee artist Hopsin’s Knock Madness. For more info: www.myfunkvolume.com

Links:

official site | facebook | twitter | youtube 

“Gimmie The Loot”: http://youtu.be/4RQtj1MK-Fw

“LIfe In The Jungle”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SCChw0rXnmQ 

“We On” Ft. Dizzy Wright & Pounds: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TF_VXpUPOTk

“Go Off” Ft. Hopsin & SwizZz: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQsPT4ejEpU

“Bully” Ft. Vinne Paz: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HZE-N1UqFMk

“Cadillacs & Chevys”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3wH81zTyJ

“The Basement Interview Pt.1″: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=htDPCAe_v3s

“Razor Blades And Steak Knives”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFW3ffGjJBY

Bio, pictures and streams available here: http://www.audibletreats.com/jarren-benton/

Podcast: Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 157

New Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 157 Features Dizzy Wright, Well$, Zion I, Noelz Vedere, and The Outfit, TX

05.23.2014

The Podcast:

In this week’s episode of the official Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast, you get to chill and listen to the most recent hits from our artists. Starting the podcast off is member Mel of The Outfit, TX and the track “Business Man.” The video for the song premiered on The FADER and is from the Dallas trio’s Cognac/Four Corner Room album, which has been circulating since late last year. Following TOTX, Las Vegas-based rapper Dizzy Wright of Funk Volume hits us with the emotional “Red Balloons.” The song was inspired by a 3-year old that was struck and killed by a truck in California as well as the nearly 300 schoolgirls that were abducted in Nigeria in mid-April. Next up is Charlotte rapper Well$ who just released his MTSYD: The Revenge of the African Booty Scratcher mixtape. The FADER had this to say about the 19 year old’s project: “The album finds the 19-year-old straddling the line between trunk-rattling southern bounce and the witty 16s of any Freshman spitter.” After Well$ is Ineffable Music Group powerhouse, Zion I, and their track “Masters of Ceremony.” Recently, the duo released part one and two of their three free EP series: The Masters of Ceremony EP and Libations EP. Concluding this week’s episode is Chicago rapper Noelz Vedere and his powerful track “Promise Land.” It’s the latest single from his Bittersweet Victory album. Filled with a chorus of angelic voices and powerful messages, the track slowly builds string layers and with a Hans Zimmer-esque build up, you get booming, reverb-intensive percussion. Stay tuned for our next podcast.

Listen to the podcast here: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-157/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2

Stream the podcast here: https://soundcloud.com/audibletreats/audible-treats-hip-hop-podcast-157

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 157 – Dizzy Wright, Well$, Zion I, Noelz Vedere, and The Outfit, TX:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-157/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2

Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 156 – Well$, ProbCause, Noelz Vedere, J Stalin, and Blanco:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-156/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2

Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 155 – Dizzy Wright, The Outfit, TX, League of Extraordinary Gz, Tynethys, and Nooch:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-155/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2

Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 154 – The Doppelgangaz, Hopsin, ProbCause, Well$, and Blanco:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-154/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2

Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 153 – Jarren Benton, Caleb James, J Stalin, Noelz Vedere, and Tynethys:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-153/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2
https://soundcloud.com/audibletreats/audible-treats-hip-hop-4

Video: Dizzy Wright – “Reunite For The Night”

The Las Vegas Rapper Returns Home for a House Party in the Latest Visual from the State of Mind EP

05.26.2014

Critical Praise for Dizzy Wright:

Selected by fans to XXL’s Freshmen Class of 2013 “Amazing.” –  MTV News “Dizzy Wright is captivating the moment you hear him“ – Complex

The Video:

Kegs, plastic red cups, weed smoke, dancing, beer pong. In his latest visual, “Reunite for the Night,” Las Vegas rapper Dizzy Wright returns home where he brings friends and family together for a house party. Presented by Funk Volume and L-R-G, the rapper’s stoner charm is in full effect, smiling from ear-to-ear assuring “this about to be a party” atop record scratches from DJ Hoppa while the party people dance and laugh together. “What it do, it’s good to see you/Glad you in town, I ain’t seen you in a while/You be holding shit down, keep making the city proud,” he raps on the song’s chorus while giving daps and handshakes to the folks he “ain’t seen in a while.” “Momma let us rent out the crib, tryna reunite for the night,” Dizzy raps, beginning the song’s first verse and setting the tone for the celebratory video.

Produced by Roc N Mayne, Dizzy reflects on his progression, saying “it’s 20-14 where your mind at, where we used to be we ‘posed to be beyond that.” Scenes change throughout the video, while director Matt Alonzo adds a home video recording device filter that further establishes the house party experience for viewers. “Reunite for the Night” is the latest single from Dizzy’s recently released State of Mind EP, which XXL calls, “a quality offering from an MC that has tasted success and wants more.” Adding on to the critical praise, HotNewHipHop says that “much of the EP has a smoothed out feel, a signature sound from the stoner, but he did provide songs that could move a crowd, perhaps even more than usual.” 

In support of the EP’s release, Dizzy just began a 19-city State of Mind tour, which is sponsored by Scion AV.

Watch “Reunite for The Night”: http://youtu.be/mhJ-di84j-o

Listen to “Reunite for The Night”: https://soundcloud.com/funk-volume/dizzy-wright-reunite-for-the-night-prod-by-roc-n-mayne

Catch Dizzy Wright on his State of Mind Tour. Tix: http://myfunkvolume.com/artist/dizzy-wright/

Tracklisting for the State of Mind EP:

1. State of Mind
2. Everywhere I Go
3. Reunite For The Night
4. Too Real For This
5. Nuttin Bout Me
6. New Generation
7. Calm Down

Upcoming Tour Dates: 5/27/2014
Studio Seven @ Seattle, WA 6/11/2014
Fulton 55 @  Fresno, CA 6/12/2014
Slo Brew @ San Luis Obispo, CA 6/13/2014
Velvet Jones @ Santa Barbara, CA 6/14/2014
Epicentre @ San Diego, CA 6/15/2014
Club Congress @ Tuscon, AZ 6/16/2104
Club Red @ Tempe, AZ 6/17/2014
Launchpad @ Albuquerque, NM 6/18/2014
Wreck Room @ Amarillo, TX 6/19/2014
Tree’s @ Dallas, TX 6/20/2014
White Rabbit @ San Antonio, TX 6/21/2014
Kamps @ Oklahoma City, OK 6/23/2014
Pop’s Nightclub @ St. Louis, MO 6/24/2014
Skully’s @ Columbus, OH 6/25/2014
The Loft @ Lansing, MI 6/26/2014
Center Stage @ Kokomo, IN
6/27/2014 Cabooze @ Minneapolis, MN
6/28/2014 Blue Moose @ Iowa City, IA
7/7/2014 Orpheum Theatre @ Tampa, FL
7/8/2014 Backbooth @ Orlando, FL
7/9/2014 Avenue D @ Miami, FL
7/24/2014 Fortune Sound Club @ Vancouver, BC

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Dizzy Wright.

Dizzy Wright Background:

Not many 23-year old rappers can say that they’ve been rapping for over a decade. Las Vegas, Nevada, Rapper Dizzy Wright began rapping at just 8 years old, in the group “DaFuture” with his brother and very close friend; his mother wrote his raps at the time. Dizzy broke through when he was discovered at the Sheikh Music “Rip the Mic” competition in 2010 and signed onto Funk Volume a few months later. In April 2012, Dizzy released his first Funk Volume album, SmokeOut Conversations, peaking at #2 on the iTunes Hip-Hop charts. He followed it up with a free mixtape, Free SmokeOut Conversations, which has been downloaded over 200,000 times, and helped propel Dizzy to his own national 30-city tour. In December 2012, Dizzy went on to release the first of four EPs, The First Agreement, which reached as high as #2 on the iTunes Hip-Hop chart. In March of 2013, Dizzy gathered enough votes to be selected as the “People’s Choice” member of the XXL Freshman Class of 2013. Also in 2013, Dizzy released The Golden Age mixtape and followed it up with The Golden Age Tour. Dizzy recently released State of Mind EP and is currently touring the US  with support from Scion AV.

Funk Volume Background:

Funk Volume is a Los Angeles-based record label, marketing, and production company that been cited as a leader among independent rap labels with over 62 million YouTube views, 415 thousand Facebook likes, consistent Top 10 chart placements on Billboard and iTunes and high profile write-ups in media outlets such as  Billboard, SPIN, LA Weekly, and many more. Founded in 2008 by internationally recognized rap artist Hopsin and Stanford MBA grad Damien “Dame” Ritter, the label was created with one thing in mind: protecting the integrity of the artist’s vision. Currently home to rappers Hopsin, SwizZz, Dizzy Wright, and Jarren Benton and more recently, DJ’s and producers Hoppa, Kato, and Rikia, the label has quickly transformed into being a label to watch by fans and industry insiders alike. Funk Volume recently released their first documentary, Independent Living, which captures the artists’ swift rise during their 44-date national tour in 2012. The latest releases from the Funk Volume label is marquee artist Hopsin’s Knock Madness and Dizzy Wright’s State of Mind EP.  For more info: www.myfunkvolume.com

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | youtube | bandcamp

“Reunite for the Night”: http://youtu.be/mhJ-di84j-o

State of Mind EP: https://soundcloud.com/funk-volume/dizzy-wright-reunite-for-the-night-prod-by-roc-n-mayne?in=funk-volume/sets/dizzy-wright-state-of-mind-ep

“Everywhere I Go” Video: http://youtu.be/QKGy-CYIJPM

State of Mind: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/state-of-mind/id862583591

“Everywhere I Go”  http://youtu.be/94VZdOlkivk

“The Perspective” feat. Chel’le Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQhzYuhtEvI

“No Writers Block, I Like To Rap” (Prod. By 6ix): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDZszHqbm74

“We Turned Out Alright” feat. Wyclef: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Sa1izvqZpc

“World Peace”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-P1zQ2oj5MM

The Golden Age: http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/dizzy-wright-the-golden-era-mixtape.88771.html

XXL 2013 Freshmen Story: http://www.xxlmag.com/2013-freshmen/dizzy-wright/

“First Agreement”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YBgQzgngKZM

“Killem Wit Kindness”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tMVfAAynx-M 

Bio, pictures and streams available here: http://www.audibletreats.com/dizzy-wright/

Album: Noelz Vedere – Bittersweet Victory 

 Noelz Vedere Releases Introspective Freshman Album Bittersweet Victory, Premiered via HotNewHipHop

05.20.2014

Critical Praise for Noelz Vedere:

“Noelz Vedere is ready to represent Chi-Town… This is a name to watch this year.” – Earmilk

“Advanced song writing skill, sharp delivery presence, unorthodox rhyming and smooth melodics.” – Hypetrak

“…it’ll become quickly apparent that he fits in with the realm of recent rap studs coming out of the city (Chicago).” – Potholes In My Blog

“This is an awesome display of rapping right here.” – Kevin Nottingham

“He raps with the strength of a thousand emcees. He steps to the mic and delivers his potent bars in a feverish, aggressive, cutting flow that drives the record more than the prodigious boardwork.” – DJBooth

“This right here is tough as hell… Noelz has our attention.” – OnSMASH 

The Album:

Holding as a genuine testimony to real life issues with a bit of flashy flavor, Chicago rapper Noelz Vedere unleashes his debut album, Bittersweet Victory, for free download and streaming. “Noelz Vedere is a new face when it comes to the rap game, but he’s quickly making waves on the blogosphere,” says HotNewHipHop, who premiered the album earlier today. Raised in Chicago’s less heralded Northside, Vedere introduces an original sound to a market that’s currently being flooded with thriving Chicago MC’s. “The Northside of Chicago is different in the sense of diversity,” he says in a recent interview with HipHopDX. “Out South and West are typically known for their own certain styles, while up North is a blend of everything mashed up together.” 

Anticipation for the project began months ago, when HYPETRAK debuted Vedere’s single “High Class,” which features Cool Kids rapper Sir Michael Rocks. More recently, Freddie Gibbs traded verses with Vedere on “Out of Focus.” The smokey, distorted visual debuted with Noisey, who says “Vedere scans less a contemporary of Chief Keef and more of a hard-spitting, new-school hardhead in the mold of Twista.”

While the aforementioned songs featuring Gangsta Gibbs and Mikey Rocks showcase Vedere’s ability to shine with slightly more aggressive, braggadocios raps, there are other segments of the album that delve into his more sentimental, introspective thoughts. Future R & B singer Sunni Colon appears on “Bittersweet,” which looks within to explore the balance between good and bad. Former American Idol constestant Kiara Lanier, who made a popular singing appearance on the intro to Chance the Rapper‘s Acid Rap mixtape, features on “Censored Love.” Vedere explains, “I’ve always wanted to make a great love song, but wasn’t sure how to do it in a creative way which wasn’t ordinary. Aside from my current situation, I’ve never had genuine relations with someone that didn’t seem masked – so I used that exact concept to create this song based on past experiences.”

On Bittersweet Victory, Vedere puts everything going on in his mind, and in his life into perspective for the audience, whether it be dealing with relationships, confidence, or being a lyrical beast. With a variety of song concepts on display, Vedere bears his soul and provides the listener with sultry tracks while simultaneously spitting the cold hard truth.

Listen to Bittersweet Victory: https://soundcloud.com/noelzvedere/sets/bittersweet-victory/s-I8FFM

Download Bittersweet Victory: http://www.bittersweetvictory.com/

Check out HotNewHipHop premiere here: http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/noelz-vedere-bittersweet-victory-new-mixtape.112588.html

Tracklist for Noelz Vedere – Bittersweet Victory:

01-“Promise Land” (ft. Kaye Fox, Ben Official, & Kiara Lanier)
02-“Let Me Burn”
03-“Blackout”
04-“Out of Focus” (ft. Freddie Gibbs)
05-“Bittersweet” (ft. Sunni Colon)
06-“So Blessed”
07-“Censored Love” (ft. Kiara Lanier)
08-“High Class” (ft. Sir Michael Rocks)
09-“Garden of Eden” (ft. Jahzel, A-Cross, & Chris Alonzo)
10-“Fallen Soldier”

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Noelz Vedere.

Noelz Vedere Background:

Chicago, Illinois has hip-hop’s spotlight for 2014. From a global superstar like Kanye West to emerging talents like Chance The Rapper, the crossroads between the East and the West has a colorful youth movement with new approaches to music-making. That is especially true of Noelz Vedere, a 24 year-old hip-hop artist from the rarely chronicled North side of the city. “I literally have friends who own houses in the hundreds of thousands, and I have friends who are below the poverty line,” he explains, of his music’s place. “Me being in the middle, it exposes me to so many aspects of life. I can relate to what Chief Keef is saying, what Chance is talking about, and what Rockie Fresh is creating. There’s so much beauty in Chicago right now.”

The Windy City’s complexity plays well against Noelz’ upcoming studio debut, Bittersweet Victory. The album, featuring Freddie Gibbs and The Cool Kids’ Sir Michael Rocks, is heavy on both inspiration and aspiration. “My first project (Popular Kid) came out and I got a lot of local recognition, but at the same time it wasn’t where I wanted to be. There are still a lot of gatekeepers and doors with keys I’m trying to find. So I feel that I’m blossoming into my glory, but it’s still a bittersweet feeling.” In 2011, Noelz burst onto the scene in a way that was even shocking to him. A song he recorded with would-be Maybach Music Group artist Rockie Fresh and Kids These Days frontman Vic Mensa mysteriously leaked to the web, with sites large and small showing “King Me” to the court. “I had never gotten so much exposure in my life,” Noelz admits, as he rushed to feed the masses a body of work. Popular Kid, a reference to the overnight exposure, dropped quickly after. Vedere now says the hasty process made him adopt a slower, refined approach to his sophomore release.

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | instagram | youtube | soundcloud

Bittersweet Victory: http://www.bittersweetvictory.com/

“Out Of Focus” (ft. Freddie Gibbs): https://soundcloud.com/noelzvedere/out-of-focus-ft-freddie-gibbs

“Bittersweet”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmTN_lLWxo8

“King Me” (ft. Rockie Fresh & Vic Mensa) Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5ZI7g6DIFk

“High Class” (ft. Sir Michael Rocks): https://soundcloud.com/noelzvedere/high-class-feat-sir-michael

“Road to Popularity” Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRNMTgo8umY

“Fly Away”: https://soundcloud.com/noelzvedere/fly-away

Bio, pictures and streams available here: http://www.audibletreats.com/noelz-vedere/

Mixtape: Well$ – MTSYD: The Revenge of the African Booty Scratcher

The FADER Premieres Mixtape from 19-Year Old Rapper Well$, MTSYD: The Revenge of the African Booty Scratcher, Available for Free Download via Immaculate Taste

05.20.2014

Critical Praise for Well$:

“The album finds the 19-year-old straddling the line between trunk-rattling southern bounce and the witty 16s of any Freshman spitter.” – The FADER

“Well$’s work always hits hard, and is overwhelmingly personal.” – Complex

“When he isn’t engaging in fluid, Golden Age worshipping that belies his self-confessed modern influences, shades of contemporary artists arise: Drake at his most combative; Kendrick in his more relaxed moments.” – Potholes in My Blog

“Charlotte-based rapper Well$ is redefining swag one music video at a time.” – OkayAfrica

“Sludgy riffs, dusty drums… it’s a discernible throwback to that ’90s New York aesthetic.” – MissInfo.tv

“Watching him rhyme while sitting on the couch next to his grandmother is not only a beautiful sight, but also shows how easily he has this rap thing down.” – Noisey/Vice

“Well$ has been making noise since he stepped on the music scene with his unique blend of African & American cultures. Creating his own sound, Well$’ mixtape is really one of a kind.” – You Heard That New

The Mixtape:

The time has come. All those days of being ridiculed for his Congolese roots, all the times other kids made him feel ashamed to be proud of who he is: all of that finally gets addressed and confronted throughout the outright honest lines of MTSYD: The Revenge of the African Booty Scratcher. Charlotte rapper Well$ has meticulously developed his sound and style, bringing it all together for display on this latest release. “The album finds the 19-year-old straddling the line between trunk-rattling southern bounce and the witty 16s of any Freshman spitter,” says The FADER, who premiered the mixtape. Clarifying the project’s title in an interview with HipHopDX, the Immaculate Taste artist explains, “It’s crazy, cause the ‘African booty scratcher’ came about when I was watching Boyz N The Hood. Watching that kid get made fun of made me think of my childhood and how bad I wanna shit on people from back then via my music. I wanted to make MTSYD undeniable.”

In recent months, Well$ has been building the anticipation for MTSYD by releasing a succession of singles and videos. His “Savoir-Faire” music video created quite a stir after appearing on Noisey, with people falling for his Jordan-wearing Grandmother and his inexplicable talent. Not long after, the Huffington Post interviewed the rapper, where they talked about the video and further discussed the rapper’s background and influences, which range from the French rap he grew up listening to, to current American rappers like Pac Div, Wiz Khalifa, and Kid Cudi. His “Dreams Of An Insomniac” single, which debuted on Complex, quickly exceeded 15K listens, as The Fresh Heir called the track “…his best song yet.” Finally, Well$ revealed “Django,” which was filmed in South Africa and The FADER called “a gorgeous, intense video.” Depicting a deal between a government army and rebel militia, the visual shows a fight to the death scene, similar to that featured in the film Django Unchained.

“MTSYD is my baby that I’ve watched grow before my eyes to what it is today,” explains Well$. “All of those sleepless nights we spent tryna make this shit crack will always stay with me. These songs got me through one of the hardest times of my life. They took us to the brink of falling apart and brought us back 10x closer. That’s why this is so much more than music for me. It’s my life, my joy, and my pains. It’s the hard work and sacrifice of my Immaculate Taste team to give me a chance to be heard.” Coming off his last tape, $ay La V, Well$ and his executive producer/cousin/labelmate Alec Lomami took a pre-meditated approach of finding beats and features. Alec pushed him to be aware of his delivery and to focus more on song structure, successfully inciting Well$ to explore his sentiment while rapping.

MTSYD is filled with lyrical gems and spacious, dreamlike instrumentals, helping us peer into the raw emotions and thoughts that Well$ has manifested onto his verses. As a master storyteller, Well$ recites tales of delicate yet familiar situations, specifically in tracks like “Black Swan.” He portrays the somber side of a stripper’s life, a life that some people close to him endure every day. In “Bienaime’s Interlude,” Well$ pays tribute to his supportive older cousin who passed away abruptly in early 2013, while in “Holy $ins” he raps about the repercussions of his decision to pursue his rap career over continuing his education. A sentimental highlight of the mixtape is the title track, where Well$ draws from his childhood embarrassment, calling out others by rapping, “and these African-Americans making fun of their roots, like, where the fuck you think you come from?” Well$ doesn’t expect anything but great things from his hard work on MTSYD. When asked about what he wants from the mixtape, Well$ says, “I want to tour the world, put the squad on the map, and get to the fans to finally make some money off of what we worked so hard for, that way I can show the world I have more to offer than just the music.”

Check out The FADER’s premiere: http://www.thefader.com/2014/05/19/well-seeks-to-build-an-empire-on-mtsyd-revenge-of-the-african-booty-scratcher/

Stream MTSYD: The Revenge of the African Booty Scratcher: https://soundcloud.com/wells-music/sets/mtsyd-the-revenge-of-the

Download MTSYD: The Revenge of the African Booty Scratcher: http://www.audiomack.com/album/well/mtsyd-the-revenge-of-the-african-booty-scratcher

Read the interview with OkayAfrica: http://www.okayafrica.com/2014/05/20/wells-mtsyd-the-revenge-of-the-african-booty-scratcher/

Tracklisting for MTSYD: The Revenge of the African Booty Scratcher:

1. “Temporary Forevers” / “xxMONOLOGUExx” (Prod. Eric G / PGMW & THE BL∆CK HE∆RTS CLUB)
2. “Savoir-Faire” (Prod. THE BL∆CK HE∆RTS CLUB)
3. “Lil’ Tommy” (Prod. Shurik’n & THE BL∆CK HE∆RTS CLUB)
4. “Black Swan” – (Prod. DJ Shlohmo)
5. “Cercle Vicieux (Vicious Circle)” feat. Makeda Iroquois (Prod. Massology)
6. “TNGHT” / “AFTRMDNGHT” (Prod. DJ Dahi)
7. “GastonTwo09ine” feat. Johnny Polygon / “Dreams Of An Insomniac” (Prod. Noah Yisreal, THE BL∆CK HE∆RTS CLUB, & Austin Celaya; Atu)
8. “Major Paine (Daddy’s Little Girl)” (Prod. Austin Celaya & THE BL∆CK HE∆RTS CLUB)
9. “Assiatou’s Interlude” feat. Obi Asiama (Prod. Juke Ellington)
10. “A$$WATER (Circa ’94)” feat. SisterMarie Warner / “Leroy Shingu’s Interlude” (Prod. Ruddy P & PRKR)
11. “Faux Gold” feat. Mibbs (Prod. JKid)
12. “Django” (Prod. Wonya)
13. “Bienaime’s Interlude” (Prod. Ryan Hemingsworth)
14. “Revenge of the African Booty Scratcher” (Prod. Larry Achiampong)
15. “Holy $ins” / “The Inauguration” (Prod. PGMW & John Beats)

The FADER premieres “Django” video: http://www.thefader.com/2014/05/05/conglose-rapper-well-gets-gritty-in-new-video-django/

Complex premieres “Dreams Of An Insomniac”: http://www.complex.com/music/2014/04/wells-dreams-of-an-insomniac-premiere

The Huffington Post premieres “Lil’ Tommy”: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/04/02/wells-lil-tommy_n_5079338.html

Noisey premieres “Savoir-Faire” video: http://noisey.vice.com/blog/well-savoir-faire-premiere

HipHopDX premieres “Black Swan”: http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/singles/id.26277/title.Well%24-Black+Swan

Well$ Background:

Like most kids in his native town of Charlotte, North Carolina, Leroy Shingu had a head filled with hip-hop dreams growing up, even trying his hand at freestyling when he was all of nine years old. But a trying background starkly different from the blissful suburban reality of his peers would compel the rapper better known as Well$ to turn that childhood fantasy into a promising career as a rapper. Quietly released in 2012, $ay La V, Well$’ debut EP rose steadily on the Bandcamp charts to peak at number 5 and eventually become the most downloaded album in the Charlotte area. This remarkable ascent as well as the video for the song “State of Ecstasy The Interlude Part 1″ hauled Well$ out of virtual anonymity, and shoved him onto high profile stage performances with artists such as G Eazy, Chris Webby, Johnny Polygon, and one of his idols, Pac Div.

Links:

bandcamp | twitter | facebook | youtube | soundcloud

MTSYD: The Revenge of the African Booty Scratcher: http://www.audiomack.com/album/well/mtsyd-the-revenge-of-the-african-booty-scratcher

“Dreams Of An Insomniac”: https://soundcloud.com/wells-music/dreams-of-an-insomniac

“Lil’ Tommy”: https://soundcloud.com/wells-music/lil-tommy/

“Savoir-Faire”: http://youtu.be/bVVggr8eheY

“Black Swan”: https://soundcloud.com/wells-music/black-swan

“State of Ecstasy Pt. 2”: https://soundcloud.com/wells-music/state-of-ecstasy-pt-2

“State of Ecstasy Pt. 1”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smsGIANkDfA

Bio, pics, and more here: http://www.audibletreats.com/wells/

News: Noelz Vedere Reveals Cover Art and Tracklist 

HipHopDX Shares Bittersweet Victory Cover Art and Tracklist Set To Be Released May 20th 

05.16.2014

Critical Praise for Noelz Vedere:

“He raps with the strength of a thousand emcees. He steps to the mic and delivers his potent bars in a feverish, aggressive, cutting flow that drives the record more than the prodigious boardwork.” – DJBooth

“This is an awesome display of rapping right here.” – Kevin Nottingham

“Advanced song writing skill, sharp delivery presence, unorthodox rhyming and smooth melodics.” – Hypetrak

“…it’ll become quickly apparent that he fits in with the realm of recent rap studs coming out of the city (Chicago).” – Potholes In My Blog

“Noelz Vedere is ready to represent Chi-Town… This is a name to watch this year.” – Earmilk

“This right here is tough as hell… Noelz has our attention.” – OnSMASH

The News:

With his album slated to be released next Tuesday, May 20th, Chicago rapper Noelz Vedere has decided to reveal the Bittersweet Victory cover art and tracklist. This announcement comes via a HipHopDX  news story, and is accompanied by thoughts from Noelz regarding his position as a rapper coming from the city’s less heralded Northside. Listeners can expect to hear features from Freddie Gibbs, former Cool Kids rapper Sir Michael Rocks, California singer Sunni Colon, and Kiara Lanier, a former American Idol contestant who made a popular appearance on the intro of Chance the Rapper’s Acid Rap.

Having released a series of singles and videos leading up to the album’s release, critics have shared high praises of Noelz. “He’s been steadily showcasing his advanced song writing skill, sharp delivery presence, unorthodox rhyming and smooth melodics,” says HYPETRAK, who debuted “High Class,” the first single from Bittersweet Victory. As the buzz continued to build, anticipation flew through the roof with the release of “Out of Focus,” which premiered in its audio format with Earmilk, who said of Noelz, “this is a name to watch this year.” “‘Out of Focus’ is one of those smoking songs that makes you feel like if you had to you could jump somebody in a really stoned haze for jacking your Rap Snacks,” claims Noisey, who first shared the visual, which shows Noelz and Freddie Gibbs trading verses in a hazy, smoke-filled room.

Other singles from the album that have been circulating include the hard-hitting, aggressive“Blackout,” the melodic, uplifting “Promise Land,” and the conflicted “Bittersweet,” which first appeared on HipHopDX along with an interview. When asked by HipHopDX about his mission in hip-hop, Noelz said “of course someday I want to be looked at as one of the greats, and all of the fame and fancy stuff is cool if you choose to move that way, but ultimately I want to be remembered for pushing the limit with timeless music that touches people.”

Check out the HipHopDX news story: http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.28776/title.noelz-vedere-bittersweet-victory-release-date-cover-art-tracklist/

Tracklist for Bittersweet Victory:

1. “Promise Land” (ft. Kaye Fox, Ben Official & Kiara Lanier)
2. “Let Me Burn”
3. “Blackout”
4. “Out Of Focus” (ft. Freddie Gibbs)
5. “Bittersweet” (ft. Sunni Colon)
6. “So Blessed”
7. “Censored Love” (ft. Kiara Lanier)
8. “High Class” (ft. Sir Michael Rocks)
9. “Garden Of Eden” (ft. Jahzel, A-Cross, & Chris Alonzo)
10.”Fallen Soldier”

Noelz Vedere’s Background:

Chicago, Illinois has hip-hop’s spotlight for 2014. From a global superstar like Kanye West to emerging talents like Chance The Rapper, the crossroads between the East and the West has a colorful youth movement with new approaches to music-making. That is especially true of Noelz Vedere, a 24 year-old hip-hop artist from the rarely chronicled Northside of the city. “I literally have friends who own houses in the hundreds of thousands, and I have friends who are below the poverty line,” he explains, of his music’s place. “Me being in the middle, it exposes me to so many aspects of life. I can relate to what Chief Keef is saying, what Chance is talking about, and what Rockie Fresh is creating. There’s so much beauty in Chicago right now.”

The Windy City’s complexity plays well against Noelz’ upcoming studio debut, Bittersweet Victory. The album, featuring Freddie Gibbs and The Cool Kids’ Sir Michael Rocks, is heavy on both inspiration and aspiration. “My first project (Popular Kid) came out and I got a lot of local recognition, but at the same time it wasn’t where I wanted to be. There are still a lot of gatekeepers and doors with keys I’m trying to find. So I feel that I’m blossoming into my glory, but it’s still a bittersweet feeling.” In 2011, Noelz burst onto the scene in a way that was even shocking to him. A song he recorded with would-be Maybach Music Group artist Rockie Fresh and Kids These Days frontman Vic Mensa mysteriously leaked to the web, with sites large and small showing “King Me” to the court. “I had never gotten so much exposure in my life,” Noelz admits, as he rushed to feed the masses a body of work. Popular Kid, a reference to the overnight exposure, dropped quickly after. Vedere now says the hasty process made him adopt a slower, refined approach to his sophomore release.

Links:

bandcamp | twitter | facebook | youtube | soundcloud

“Promise Land” ft. Kiara Lanier, Ben Official, & Kaye Fox:  https://soundcloud.com/noelzvedere/promise-land

“Out of Focus” ft. Freddie Gibbs: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSpaypMWn98

“Out of Focus” ft. Freddie Gibbs: https://soundcloud.com/noelzvedere/out-of-focus-ft-freddie-gibbs 

“High Class” ft. Sir Michael Rocks: https://soundcloud.com/noelzvedere/high-class-feat-sir-michael

“Bittersweet”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmTN_lLWxo8

“Blackout”: https://soundcloud.com/noelzvedere/blackout

Bio, pics, and more here: http://www.audibletreats.com/wells/

Album & Video: J.Lately – Make.Believe

Bay Area Rapper J.Lately Releases Make.Believe Album Along With Video

05.14.2014

The Album/Video:

Bay Area MC J.Lately‘s album Make.Believe is now available for purchase and download on Bandcamp. In addition to the album, J.Lately releases the video for his single “Roses,” featuring Grynch and produced by The Blacksmiths. Sporting a Hiero T-shirt, J.Lately spits solemn verses over chill synths and relaxed percussion.

Raised in Oakland until he was five, J.Lately later moved to Sebastopol, a small town in Sonoma County. He lived there until deciding to attend Pitzer College in L.A., where J.Lately started to immerse himself in hip-hop as both an artist and a fan. After graduating, he returned to Oakland to work as a high school teacher, eventually becoming a vice principal. J.Lately’s musical career has flourished, with recent successes including selling out The Hotel Utah in San Francisco and touring California.

Stream, purchase or download Make.Believe: http://justlately.bandcamp.com/album/make-believe

Watch the video for “Roses”: http://youtu.be/xnQv7ZcaVqw

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with J.Lately.

J.Lately Background:

With no pretend marketing scheme or gimmick, J. Lately distinguishes himself with his classic style and laid back flow. A true appreciation for music, along with the unique ability to put everyday life into a relatable perspective has allowed him to flourish in the local Bay Area scene. “It’s not about rushing it” explains Lately, “it’s about quality music and progress.”

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | instagram | youtube

Make.Believe: http://justlately.bandcamp.com/album/make-believe

“Roses” ft. Grynch: http://youtu.be/xnQv7ZcaVqw

“All Away” ft. TiRon (Prod. Ben Rosen): http://justlately.bandcamp.com/track/all-away-ft-tiron-prod-ben-rosen-2

“Destinations” ft. Rayana Jay (Prod. Matcy P): https://justlately.bandcamp.com/track/destinations-ft-rayana-jay-prod-matcy-p

“Make.Believe”: http://youtu.be/tceOb8xUaL4

“Roses” ft. Grynch (Prod. The Blacksmiths): https://justlately.bandcamp.com/track/roses-ft-grynch-prod-the-blacksmiths

Video: J Stalin – “Fuk That” feat. Too $hort

Bay Area Legend J Stalin Releases Video From Recently Released Album SID – Shining in Darkness, Premiere via The FADER

05.14.2014

Critical Praise:

“As the owner of Livewire Records, West Oakland rapper J Stalin provides a place for the growth of incredibly creative, meat-and-potatoes Bay Area hip-hop. The label hosts gritty rubbery street music that navigates crack dealing devastation and grounded partying tracks with equal aplomb, with artists that range from Stalin himself to MCs like Shady Nate and Philthy Rich among others.” – SPIN

“J Stalin pushes the envelope by vividly reiterating his Mob Bay Area persona and turmoil of his harsh upbringing.” – XXL

The Video:

What do you get when you get two Bay Area music legends on one track? Well, that’s easy; you get a slappin’, pimpery, dope-as-hell video. Cultivator of the Bay Area’s underground street-centric “mob music” master J Stalin and Bay boss Too $hort go in on “Fuk That,” the first single for Stalin’s recently released SID: Shining in Darkness album. Premiered by The FADER, the song screams Bay Area in its production with big bass synths, high-hat rolls, and reverb-heavy claps. The two MCs don’t mess around with their money, as J Stalins shouts, “I don’t care if you owe me a dollar n*gga fuck that / think I’m playin’ with my money, I’ll be right back” while Too $hort booms, “Fuck the economy, fuck hard times, fuck whatchu goin’ through, give me all mine.”

J Stalin’s SID, was premiered early on SPIN prior to its April 22nd release. The album’s second single, “Another Quelo (Remix),” features Joey Fatts and premiered on Noisey. In a review of the album, XXL says “J Stalin pushes the envelope by vividly reiterating his Mob Bay Area persona and turmoil of his harsh upbringing.” Aware of his prolific music career, HipHopDX recently asked J Stalin to share his tips for maintaing success after 13 albums, which you can read here. 

Watch the video for “Fuk That”: http://youtu.be/Fv3xYaAjxZI

Check out The FADER premiere: http://www.thefader.com/2014/05/13/video-j-stalin-f-too-short-fuk-that/

Purchase SID (Shining In Darkness):
iTunes: http://www.amazon.com/Sid-Shining-Darkness-J-Stalin/dp/B00I5NKPZ4/
Amazon: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/s.i.d.-shining-in-darkness/id838606733

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with J Stalin.

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | instagram

“Fuk That” ft. Too $hort: http://youtu.be/Fv3xYaAjxZI

“Weirdo” feat Lil June, prod by P-Lo: https://soundcloud.com/jstalinlivewire/04-weirdo

SID (Shining In Darkness): https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/s.i.d.-shining-in-darkness/id838606733

“Regal”: https://soundcloud.com/jstalinlivewire/regal-feat-problem-prod-by

“Stay Strapped”: http://youtu.be/XEQ1FhJaJBk

“Anotha Quelo” (Remix): https://soundcloud.com/jstalinlivewire/another-quelo-remix-feat-lil/s-lQKUd

“Fuk That”: https://soundcloud.com/jstalinlivewire/fuk-that-feat-too-short-prod/

MP3: Crush Effect – “Let the Good Times Roll”

Cali Electro/Funk/Soul Duo Releases Coachella-Debuted Single For Free Download and For Sale on iTunes, Premiere via The Dankles

05.13.2014

Critical Praise for Crush Effect:

“Crush Effect is emerging with a sound that should not go unnoticed by any electronic music listener.” – Heady Tunes

“Until the Next is an electro-soul masterpiece.” – Sensible Reason

“Nice and smooth, with that beach-cruising feel every funkadelic being loves to hear.” – The Untz

“Funk, jazz, soul, glitch hop and all the bass you could want.” – District Flow

 The Song:

With “Let the Good Times Roll,” SoCal Electro/Soul/Funk duo Crush Effect have transformed Earl King‘s classic “Come On (Let the Good Times Roll)” by incorporating an arrangement of speaker-rattling basslines and buzzing electronic effects. Different from previous covers by Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan, among others, the chorus is soaked in auto-tune and loops as a repetitive mantra atop a plethora of synthesizers, scattered drums, and multi-layered guitar riffs. Debuted at Coachella‘s Do Lab stage, “Let the Good Times Roll” is being released for free download and for purchase on iTunes, premiering via The Dankles.

The new single follows the March release of Crush Effect’s Until the Next EP, which Sensible Reason calls “an electro-soul masterpiece.” The EP showcases their unique style, blending soul with jazz influences along with modern, bass-heavy EDM sounds. Also available for free download, the EP has gained the duo critical praise and a ton of new fans. As stated by Heady Tunes, “Crush Effect is emerging with a sound that should not go unnoticed by any electronic music listener.”

Crush Effect has been compiling a list of accomplishments dating back a couple of years, with the two winning the Future Music Magazine 2010 “Claude Von Stroke Remix Competition, while also scoring as a runner up in Kaskade’s 2010 Beatport.com Dynasty Remix Competition. Recently, the duo has gotten placements in a nationally aired Kia commercial with Blake Griffin, along with a Southern Comfort commercial.

Listen to “Let the Good Times Roll”: https://soundcloud.com/crusheffect/let-the-good-times-roll/

Buy “Let the Good Times Roll” on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/let-the-good-times-roll-single/id873413352

Check out The Dankles premiere: http://thedankles.com/2014/05/13/premiere-crush-effect-let-good-times-roll/

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/149225074″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_artwork=true” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Crush Effect.

Crush Effect Background:

Soaked in melody, the newest release from southern California duo Crush Effect is nothing short of spectacular. The pristine production throughout their latest release, Until The Next, evokes imagery of crystal clear water and sandy beaches, perfect for its Spring release earlier this March. Pulling from the infectious influences of jazz and soul merged with modern bass-heavy EDM, these two renowned musicians have created something truly special. Fans of Pretty Lights, Flume, and Rustie will feel cozy with both the visceral and buoyant sounds throughout. In addition to their success with their EP, the group has had some great placements – a Kia commercial with Blake Griffin, a Southern Comfort commercial. Crush Effect is releasing their single, “Let the Good Times Roll,” as a follow up to Until The Next.

Links:

twitter | official page | facebook | youtube | soundcloud | beatport

“Let the Good Times Roll”: https://soundcloud.com/crusheffect/let-the-good-times-roll/

Until The Next: https://soundcloud.com/crusheffect/sets/crush-effect-until-the-next

“Burn It Down”: http://youtu.be/6vCfRS8-qHA

“Slacker”: http://youtu.be/9IDcNijjVT0

“Open Your Eyes” ft. Raashan Ahmad & Trev’Le Musiq & Zach Deputy : https://soundcloud.com/mid-tempo/open-your-eyes-ft-raashan

“Fresh”: https://soundcloud.com/glitchhop/fresh-by-crush-effect-edm-com

“Loud Enough” ft. Vokab Kompany: https://soundcloud.com/crusheffect/crush-effect-loud-enough-feat

Bio, pictures and streams available here: http://www.audibletreats.com/crush-effect/

EP: ProbCause – WAVES

Chance the Rapper, The Hood Internet, Twista, Exmag Feature on Chicago MC’s New Release, Available for Free Download

05.12.2014

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

“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

“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 EP:

Following a premiere with SPIN, eclectic Chicago rapper ProbCause officially releases his WAVES EP for stream and free download. Anticipation for the new EP has continued to grow ever since hip-hop fans got a taste of the project’s first single, “LSD (Hood Internet Remix),” featuring Chance the Rapper. The track surpassed 500K collective plays on ProbCause’s personal and ThisSongIsSick’s Soundcloud pages. Debuting on Noisey, the trap/juke-influenced second single, “Chicago Style,” has been updated to include a verse from Chicago rap legend Twista, which SPIN calls “one his most snarling verses in quite some time.”

On the WAVES EP, tracks like “Ego Trip,” described by SPIN as a “DJ Screwed-up dubstep buzzer,” prove ProbCause’s versatility and willingness to experiment with different sounds. In doing so, he includes a bit of auto-tune in conjunction with heavy electronic synths. With production by electronic-rock band Exmag, he also hits listeners with “Neon Dreams,” which plays into more of a blissfully romantic sound, simultaneously obtaining baby-making soundscapes, before subtly segueing into a sweet, more melodic track, “Breezy.” Speaking on specific tracks from the EP, SPIN adds, “the introspective, novelistic ‘Pale Moonlight‘ is a downtempo moment of pause that practically turns WAVES EP into a mini-movie.”

The release of ProbCause’s WAVES EP follows a 40-city tour with electro-pop duo Cherub, which included two sold out dates in NYC. In addition to creating music, ProbCause is a graffiti artist-turned-graphic designer, responsible for the remarkably imaginative WAVES cover art. “His skills, creativity and persona are refreshing and unlike much else,” says FakeShoreDrive. “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.”

Listen to WAVES: http://soundcloud.com/probcause/sets/waves

Download WAVES for free: http://probcause.bandcamp.com/album/waves

Check out the SPIN premiere of WAVES: http://www.spin.com/articles/probcause-waves-ep-stream/

ProbCause – WAVES EP tracklist:

1 – “Meditate” (Prod. by Two Fresh)
2 – “Ego Trip” (feat. Fluffy) (Prod. by Fortified Sounds)
3 – “Neon Dreams” (Prod. by Exmag)
4 – “Pairadice” (Prod. by Drew Mantia)
5 – “Chicago Style” (feat. Twista) (Prod. by Fortified Sounds & Drew Mantia)
6 – “Breezy” (feat. Gibbz) (Prod. by Cofresi)
7 – “One of a Kind” (feat. The O’MY’s) (Prod. by Carter)
8 – “Pale Moonlight” (feat. Donnie Trumpet & KSRA) (Prod. by Wes P.)
9 – “Back in the Day” (feat. Psalm One & KSRA (Prod. by Drew Mantia)
10 – “LSD (Hood Internet Remix)” (feat. Chance the Rapper) (Prod. by The Hood Internet)

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

ProbCause Background:

We drew a line in the sand, and ProbCause crossed it. Over and over again. Eventually, we gave up on drawing lines and left that to him. Not only is ProbCause a prolific rapper, but a painter too. Between SXSW, North Coast, Costa Rica, and tour dates nation-wide, ProbCause is keeping busy. When he’s not on the road doing shows, he’s getting friendly with his paintbrush and inspiring fellow students at the School of the Art Institute in Chicago. His sound jumps from hip hop, to electronic, to R & B, and then back to a classic boom-bap gritty rap sound. With stories that make you reminisce and a percussive delivery that highlights his versatile production, ProbCause is one of the most dynamic touring acts.

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | instagram | soundcloud | bandcamp

WAVES: http://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

“Muffhugger” (feat. ProbCause): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfwGplBrAKc

“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/

EP: ProbCause – WAVES

Chicago Rapper  ProbCause Releases Charismatic, Blissful WAVES EP, Debuting via SPIN

05.09.2014

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

“The rising rapper […] has continued to dominate his own lane, especially with his new project The Recipe Volume 2. 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

“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 EP:

Dubbing himself as the “attention hogging, loud talking bitter bragging writer,” Chicago rapper ProbCause proves to be so much more in his highly innovative, and introspective WAVES EP. Premiering via SPIN, the anticipation for the new EP has been bubbling for months, as the project’s first single, the trippy “LSD (Hood Internet Remix),” featuring Chance the Rapper, has eclipsed 500K listens between post on ProbCause’s personal Soundcloud page and ThisSongIsSick‘s Soundcloud page. Meanwhile, the WAVES EP’s second single, the trap/juke-inspired “Chicago Style,” has been updated to include a verse from Chicago rap legend Twista, which SPIN calls “one his most snarling verses in quite some time.” Throughout the release, ProbCause displays his ability to take risks artistically, dabbling in electro-rap-rock fusion, while also intriguing his audience with a charismatic flow.

Recently, ProbCause concluded a 40-city tour with electro-pop duo Cherub. In addition to creating music, ProbCause is a graffiti artist-turned-graphic designer, responsible for the remarkably imaginative WAVES cover art. On EP tracks like “Ego Trip,” described by SPIN as a “DJ Screwed-up dubstep buzzer,” ProbCause proves his versatility and willingness to experiment with different sounds. In doing so, he includes a bit of auto-tune and heavy electronic synths. With production by electro producer Gramatik’s band Exmag, he also hits listeners with “Neon Dreams,” which plays into more of a blissfully romantic sound simultaneously obtaining baby-making soundscapes, before subtly segueing into a sweet, more melodic track, “Breezy.” Speaking on specific tracks from the EP, SPIN adds, “the introspective, novelistic ‘Pale Moonlight‘ is a downtempo moment of pause that practically turns WAVES EP into a mini-movie.”

Check out the SPIN premiere of WAVES: http://www.spin.com/articles/probcause-waves-ep-stream/

ProbCause – WAVES EP tracklist:

1 – “Meditate” (Prod. by Two Fresh)
2 – “Ego Trip” (feat. Fluffy) (Prod. by Fortified Sounds)
3 – “Neon Dreams” (Prod. by Exmag)
4 – “Pairadice” (Prod. by Drew Mantia)
5 – “Chicago Style” (feat. Twista) (Prod. by Fortified Sounds & Drew Mantia)
6 – “Breezy” (feat. Gibbz) (Prod. by Cofresi)
7 – “One of a Kind” (feat. The O’MY’s) (Prod. by Carter)
8 – “Pale Moonlight” (feat. Donnie Trumpet & KSRA) (Prod. by Wes P.)
9 – “Back in the Day” (feat. Psalm One & KSRA (Prod. by Drew Mantia)
10 – “LSD (Hood Internet Remix)” (feat. Chance the Rapper) (Prod. by The Hood Internet)

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

ProbCause Background:

We drew a line in the sand, and ProbCause crossed it. Over and over again. Eventually, we gave up on drawing lines and left that to him. Not only is ProbCause a prolific rapper, but a painter too. Between SXSW, North Coast, Costa Rica, and tour dates nation-wide, ProbCause is keeping busy. When he’s not on the road doing shows, he’s getting friendly with his paintbrush and inspiring fellow students at the School of the Art Institute in Chicago. His sound jumps from hip hop, to electronic, to R & B, and then back to a classic boom-bap gritty rap sound. With stories that make you reminisce and a percussive delivery that highlights his versatile production, ProbCause is one of the most dynamic touring acts.

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | instagram | soundcloud | bandcamp

“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

“Muffhugger” (feat. ProbCause): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfwGplBrAKc

“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/

Podcast: Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 156

New Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 156 Features Well$, Prob Cause, Noelz Vedere, J Stalin, and Blanco

05.07.2014

The Podcast:

Hear the latest tracks from our roster in this week’s episode of the Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast. Kicking off the podcast is 19-year old Charlotte rapper Well$ and his track “Django.” The young MC just released a video for the song, which is from his upcoming MTSYD: The Revenge of the African Booty Scratcher mixtape, due May 19 via Immaculate Taste. After Well$, Chicago rapper/artist ProbCause, who hits us wit his latest visual, “Chicago Style.” Debuted by PotholesInMyBlog, the track is the first official single from his forthcoming WAVES EP, which is set for a May 12 release. Following him is fellow Chicago rapper Noelz Vedere and his Freddie Gibbs featured track “Out of Focus.” The talented Northside native is preparing for his upcoming studio debut, Bittersweet Victory. Highlighting the signature mob music sound the Bay Area is known for, we have J Stalin next with “G.I. Joe.” The track is from his recently released album, SID (Shining In Darkness), which premiered on SPIN.  Finishing off our podcast are Bay Area rap vets Blanco, The Jacka, and Messy Marv and their track ““The Grassy Knoll.” Featuring Freeway, the song is the latest single release from the One Hunnid EP, which has charted the iTunes Top 100 Hip-Hop/R&B albums. Produced in-full by production duo Tha Bizness, the EP has since been made available for free download. Stay tuned for our next podcast.

Listen to the podcast here: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-156/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2

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 156 – Well$, ProbCause, Noelz Vedere, J Stalin, and Blanco:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-156/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2
https://soundcloud.com/audibletreats/audible-treats-hip-hop-7

Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 155 – Dizzy Wright, The Outfit, TX, League of Extraordinary Gz, Tynethys, and Nooch:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-155/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2

Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 154 – The Doppelgangaz, Hopsin, ProbCause, Well$, and Blanco:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-154/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2

Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 153 – Jarren Benton, Caleb James, J Stalin, Noelz Vedere, and Tynethys:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-153/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2

Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 152 – Dizzy Wright, Well$, Noelz Vedere, Nooch, and The Outfit, TX:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-152/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2
https://soundcloud.com/audibletreats/audible-treats-hip-hop-3

MP3: Noelz Vedere – “Promise Land” 

PotholesInMyBlog Premieres Uplifting Single From Bittersweet Victory Album, Releasing May 2oth

05.08.2014

Critical Praise for Noelz Vedere:

“He raps with the strength of a thousand emcees. He steps to the mic and delivers his potent bars in a feverish, aggressive, cutting flow that drives the record more than the prodigious boardwork.” – DJBooth

“This is an awesome display of rapping right here.” – Kevin Nottingham

“Advanced song writing skill, sharp delivery presence, unorthodox rhyming and smooth melodics.” – Hypetrak

“…it’ll become quickly apparent that he fits in with the realm of recent rap studs coming out of the city (Chicago).” – Potholes In My Blog

“Noelz Vedere is ready to represent Chi-Town… This is a name to watch this year.” – Earmilk

“This right here is tough as hell… Noelz has our attention.” – OnSMASH

The Song:

Rising from a chorus of angelic voices, Chicago rapper Noelz Vedere recites powerful messages in “Promise Land,” the latest single from his Bittersweet Victory album, which is set to be released on May 20th. Artistic perfection is utterly imperative for Vedere, who spent almost 5 months in the studio just for this song. Premiering via PotholesInMyBlog, “Promise Land” is beautifully arranged, starting with a soft piano playing soft minor and major 7th chords. The track slowly builds string layers and with a Hans Zimmer-esque build up, you get booming, reverb-intensive percussion. Says Noelz about the song, “I wanted to create something powerful that takes the listeners on an extreme roller coaster of emotions – both production and true content wise.”

“Promise Land” follows the impactful MP3 release of the Freddie Gibbs-featuring “Out of Focus,” debuting on Earmilk before the song’s hazy video premiered on Noisey, garnering the attention of hip-hop fans across the board. This latest single release relays Vedere’s sincere message of not settling for anything less than you deserve. “This record boasts a message saying we can all fight to be at a higher position in life, no matter what negative situations we may face,” he states. Striving for excellence, Vedere has been working toward his goal of affecting millions with his music.

Listen to “Promise Land”: https://soundcloud.com/noelzvedere/promise-land

Check out the PotholesInMyBlog premiere: http://potholesinmyblog.com/potholes-premiere-noelz-vedere-promise-land/

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Noelz Vedere.

Noelz Vedere Background:

Chicago, Illinois has hip-hop’s spotlight for 2014. From a global superstar like Kanye West to emerging talents like Chance The Rapper, the crossroads between the East and the West has a colorful youth movement with new approaches to music-making. That is especially true of Noelz Vedere, a 24 year-old hip-hop artist from the rarely chronicled Northside of the city. “I literally have friends who own houses in the hundreds of thousands, and I have friends who are below the poverty line,” he explains, of his music’s place. “Me being in the middle, it exposes me to so many aspects of life. I can relate to what Chief Keef is saying, what Chance is talking about, and what Rockie Fresh is creating. There’s so much beauty in Chicago right now.”

The Windy City’s complexity plays well against Noelz’ upcoming studio debut, Bittersweet Victory. The album, featuring Freddie Gibbs and The Cool Kids’ Sir Michael Rocks, is heavy on both inspiration and aspiration. “My first project (Popular Kid) came out and I got a lot of local recognition, but at the same time it wasn’t where I wanted to be. There are still a lot of gatekeepers and doors with keys I’m trying to find. So I feel that I’m blossoming into my glory, but it’s still a bittersweet feeling.” In 2011, Noelz burst onto the scene in a way that was even shocking to him. A song he recorded with would-be Maybach Music Group artist Rockie Fresh and Kids These Days frontman Vic Mensa mysteriously leaked to the web, with sites large and small showing “King Me” to the court. “I had never gotten so much exposure in my life,” Noelz admits, as he rushed to feed the masses a body of work. Popular Kid, a reference to the overnight exposure, dropped quickly after. Vedere now says the hasty process made him adopt a slower, refined approach to his sophomore release.

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | instagram | youtube | soundcloud

“Promise Land”: https://soundcloud.com/noelzvedere/promise-land

“Out Of Focus” (ft. Freddie Gibbs): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSpaypMWn98

“Out Of Focus” (ft. Freddie Gibbs): https://soundcloud.com/noelzvedere/out-of-focus-ft-freddie-gibbs

“Bittersweet”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmTN_lLWxo8

“King Me” (ft. Rockie Fresh & Vic Mensa) Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5ZI7g6DIFk

“High Class” (ft. Sir Michael Rocks): https://soundcloud.com/noelzvedere/high-class-feat-sir-michael

“Road to Popularity” Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRNMTgo8umY

Bio, pictures and streams available here: http://www.audibletreats.com/noelz-vedere/

MP3: Dizzy Wright – “Red Balloons”

Dizzy Wright Shares Solemn Single Dedicated to the Loss of a Child

05.08.2014

Critical Praise for Dizzy Wright:

Selected as one of XXL’s Freshmen Class of 2013

“Amazing.” –  MTV News

“Dizzy Wright is captivating the moment you hear him“ – Complex

The Song:

The father of a 3-year old daughter, Dizzy Wright’s solemn new single “Red Balloons” was inspired by a series of tragic stories that have been making their way into the news. Earlier this month, ABC News reported on a 3-year old that was struck and killed by a truck in California. In the days following, an outpour of support came rolling in, as the #RedBalloonsForRyan hashtag began trending. “Red balloons for a child we lost today,” Dizzy croons on the chorus, “As a parent, I pray, as a father, I pray.” He continues atop the piano and bass-heavy DJ Hoppa-produced beat with a heartfelt verse discussing emotions that come with the loss of a child.

On “Red Balloons,” Dizzy also acknowledges the on-going search for nearly 300 schoolgirls that were abducted in Nigeria in mid-April, which spawned the #BringBackOurGirls hashtag. As CNN reports, “their abduction sparked a global movement as throngs took to the streets demanding their rescue.” Harmonizing his vocals, “bring those babies back in Nigeria,” Dizzy demands, before saying “Lord knows I don’t sing, I just want y’all to feel my passion.”

This chilling loose single follows the release of Dizzy Wright’s State of Mind EP, which XXL calls a “quality offering from an MC that has tasted success and wants more.” Over the past month, Dizzy’s released a video for the EP’s first single, “Everywhere I Go,” while more recently sharing “Reunite for the Night” as the second single.

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Dizzy Wright.

Dizzy Wright Background:

Not many 21-year old rappers can say that they’ve been rapping for over a decade. Las Vegas, Nevada, Rapper Dizzy Wright began rapping at just 8 years old, in the group “DaFuture” with his brother and very close friend; his mother wrote his raps at the time. Dizzy broke through when he was discovered at the Sheikh Music “Rip the Mic” competition in 2010 and signed onto Funk Volume a few months later. In April 2012, Dizzy released his first Funk Volume album, SmokeOut Conversations, peaking at #2 on the iTunes Hip-Hop charts. He followed it up with a free mixtape, Free SmokeOut Conversations, which has been downloaded over 200,000 times, and helped propel Dizzy to his own national 30-city tour. In December 2012, Dizzy went on to release the first of four EPs, The First Agreement, which reached as high as #2 on the iTunes Hip-Hop chart. In March of 2013, Dizzy gathered enough votes to be selected as the “People’s Choice” member of the XXL Freshman Class of 2013. Also in 2013, Dizzy released The Golden Age mixtape and followed it up with The Golden Age Tour. 

Funk Volume Background:

Funk Volume is a Los Angeles-based record label, marketing, and production company that been cited as a leader among independent rap labels with over 62 million YouTube views, 415 thousand Facebook likes, consistent Top 10 chart placements on Billboard and iTunes and high profile write-ups in media outlets such as Forbes, Billboard, SPIN, LA Weekly, and many more. Founded in 2008 by internationally recognized rap artist Hopsin and Stanford MBA grad Damien “Dame” Ritter, the label was created with one thing in mind: protecting the integrity of the artist’s vision. Currently home to rappers Hopsin, SwizZz, Dizzy Wright, and Jarren Benton and more recently, DJ’s and producers Hoppa, Kato, and Rikia, the label has quickly transformed into being a label to watch by fans and industry insiders alike. Funk Volume recently released their first documentary, Independent Living, which captures the artists’ swift rise during their 44-date national tour in 2012. The latest release from the Funk Volume label is marquee artist Hopsin’s Knock Madness. For more info: www.myfunkvolume.com

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | youtube | bandcamp

“Red Balloons”: https://soundcloud.com/funk-volume/dizzy-wright-red-balloons

“State of Mind”: https://soundcloud.com/funk-volume/dizzy-wright-reunite-for-the-night-prod-by-roc-n-mayne?in=funk-volume/sets/dizzy-wright-state-of-mind-ep

“Everywhere I Go” Video: http://youtu.be/QKGy-CYIJPM

State of Mind: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/state-of-mind/id862583591

“Everywhere I Go”  http://youtu.be/94VZdOlkivk

“The Perspective” feat. Chel’le Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQhzYuhtEvI

“No Writers Block, I Like To Rap” (Prod. By 6ix): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDZszHqbm74

“We Turned Out Alright” feat. Wyclef: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Sa1izvqZpc

“World Peace”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-P1zQ2oj5MM

The Golden Age: http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/dizzy-wright-the-golden-era-mixtape.88771.html

XXL 2013 Freshmen Story: http://www.xxlmag.com/2013-freshmen/dizzy-wright/

“First Agreement”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YBgQzgngKZM

“Killem Wit Kindness”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tMVfAAynx-M 

Bio, pictures and streams available here: http://www.audibletreats.com/dizzy-wright/

MP3: J Stalin (feat. Lil June) Produced by P-Lo – “Weirdo

Bay Area Rapper J Stalin Releases Single From Recently Released Album SID – Shining in Darkness

05.09.2014

Critical Praise:

“As the owner of Livewire Records, West Oakland rapper J Stalin provides a place for the growth of incredibly creative, meat-and-potatoes Bay Area hip-hop. The label hosts gritty rubbery street music that navigates crack dealing devastation and grounded partying tracks with equal aplomb, with artists that range from Stalin himself to MCs like Shady Nate and Philthy Rich among others.” – SPIN

“J Stalin pushes the envelope by vividly reiterating his Mob Bay Area persona and turmoil of his harsh upbringing.” – XXL

The Song:

Known for an unapologetic modus operandi, J Stalin keeps it pimpery and playerish on “Weirdo,  from his recently released SID: Shining in Darkness album. Over production from HBK Gang/The Invasion’s P-Lo, who presents his signature trunk-rattling lows, hand-claps, and catchy synth motifs, J Stalin and Lil June wax poetic about picking up bad ones and traipsing all over East Oakland with them.

“Weirdo” is the sixth single from J Stalin’s SID, which SPIN debuted week of release. Previous single releases from the album include “Fuk That,” which features Too Short and premiered on Complex, and “Another Quelo (Remix),” featuring Joey Fatts and first appearing on Noisey. In a review of the album, XXL says “J Stalin pushes the envelope by vividly reiterating his Mob Bay Area persona and turmoil of his harsh upbringing.” Recognizing that his release marks the Bay Area rapper’s 13th studio album, HipHopDX recently asked J Stalin to share his tips for cultivating a long and healthy career, which you can read here. 

Listen to “Weirdo” (feat. Lil June) (Prod. by P-Lo):  https://soundcloud.com/jstalinlivewire/04-weirdo

Purchase SID (Shining In Darkness):
iTunes: http://www.amazon.com/Sid-Shining-Darkness-J-Stalin/dp/B00I5NKPZ4/
Amazon: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/s.i.d.-shining-in-darkness/id838606733

Stream SID (Shining In Darkness): https://soundcloud.com/jstalinlivewire/sets/j-stalin-sid-shining-in

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with J Stalin.

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | instagram

“Weirdo” feat Lil June, prod by P-Lo: https://soundcloud.com/jstalinlivewire/04-weirdo

SID (Shining In Darkness): https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/s.i.d.-shining-in-darkness/id838606733

“Regal”: https://soundcloud.com/jstalinlivewire/regal-feat-problem-prod-by

“Stay Strapped”: http://youtu.be/XEQ1FhJaJBk

“Anotha Quelo” (Remix): https://soundcloud.com/jstalinlivewire/another-quelo-remix-feat-lil/s-lQKUd

“Fuk That”: https://soundcloud.com/jstalinlivewire/fuk-that-feat-too-short-prod/

MP3: Blanco, The Jacka & Messy Marv – “The Grassy Knoll” feat. Freeway

Bay Area Trio Releases Third Single from Collaborative EP, One Hunnid, Available on iTunes and for Free Download

05.07.2014

 The Song:

Following the Complex premiere of “9/11,” featuring YG, and the AllHipHop debut of “Change,” which features Nipsey Hussle, Bay Area rap vets Blanco, The Jacka, and Messy Marv released their collaborative One Hunnid EP, which was produced in-full by production duo Tha Bizness. Released on iTunes, and charting in the iTunes Top 100 Hip-Hop/R&B albums, the EP has since been made available for free download.

“The Grassy Knoll,” featuring Freeway, is the latest single release from the One Hunnid EP. Jazzy piano licks and old record scratches create a timbre that’s only further enhanced and colored by the smooth verses and catchy hooks. “The Grassy Knoll” actually ends up setting a melancholy tone criticizing society and taking an analytical approach to politics. One Hunnid follows a series of free re-releases of past albums, such as OBEY and Misfits which are collaborative projects with The Jacka,Jonestown with The Jacka and Messy Marv, and Raw with Nipsey Hussle. 

Listen to “The Grassy Knoll”: https://soundcloud.com/iamguerrilla/the-grassy-knoll-featuring

Purchase the One Hunnid EP: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/one-hunnid/id845403974

Download the One Hunnid EP: http://www.audiomack.com/album/audible-treats/one-hunnid

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

Blanco Background:

Blanco (formerly Benny Blanco) is a rapper born in Berkeley, California but bred throughout the Bay Area. Fascinated by gangsta rap at an early age, Blanco began rhyming at 17. In 2004, he and his brother founded hip-hop label Guerilla Entertainment, which to date has released upwards of over 20 mixtapes and albums. As a member of rap trio The Yay Boyz with fellow label mates Taj-He-Spitz and Lil Hyfe, Blanco released Got Purp (Volumes 1 and 2), The Wizeguys, and full-length album Nosebleed Muzic. He has gone on to release several solo projects, including Blanco’s Way and American Pyscho, and more collaborative albums, including Jonestown with Messy Marv and Jacka, and his latest, Raw, with Nipsey Hussle. Blanco has also collaborated with Gucci Mane, Redman, Freeway, Freddie Gibbs and Styles P, and released projects with Araab Muzik and Yukmouth. 

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | youtube  

“The Grassy Knoll”: https://soundcloud.com/iamguerrilla/the-grassy-knoll-featuring

Purchase One Hunnid EP: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/one-hunnid/id845403974

Stream One Hunnid EP: https://soundcloud.com/iamguerrilla/sets/one-hunnid-blanco-the-jacka

“Change,” feat. Nipsey Hussle: https://soundcloud.com/iamguerrilla/change-blanco-the-jacka-messy

“9/11,” feat. YG: https://soundcloud.com/iamguerrilla/9-11-blanco-the-jacka-messy

OBEY: https://soundcloud.com/iamguerrilla/sets/obey-blanco-the-jacka/

Misfits: https://soundcloud.com/iamguerrilla/sets/blanco-the-jacka-misfits-1

“Punch Out”: https://soundcloud.com/empiredistribution/blanco-punch-out-feat-trae-tha

“Duck Hunt”: https://soundcloud.com/empiredistribution/blanco-the-jacka-duck-hunt-ft

Raw: https://soundcloud.com/empiredistribution/sets/nipsey-hussle-blanco-raw-full

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

Video: The Outfit, TX – “Business Man” (Prod. by Mel of The Outfit, TX)

The Outfit, TX’s Mel Releases Video from Cognac Album, Premiere via The FADER

05.06.2014

Critical Praise for The Outfit, TX:

“The Outfit, TX is… mixing Texan traditions with a wide range of influences from New Wave to punk to vintage boom-bap.” – Noisey

“…the best thing in rap today that nobody is talking about yet.” – MTV Hive

“…positively perfect.” – Complex

“The Outfit, TX is one of the best rap groups in Texas.” – PassionWeiss

“This is definitely a song I’d like to hear blasting out of a car.” – EARMILK

“Restrained but intricate screw-meets-funk delivery.” – The FADER

The Video :

“I know you see me, I look important,” raps The Outfit, TX’s Mel on the chorus of “Business Man,” a song in which he also produced. Premiering with The FADER, who say Mel “has the kind of subtle but powerful swag exclusive to sensitive guys who’ve realized that girls love sensitive guys,” the video is the latest release from the Dallas trio’s Cognac/Four Corner Room album, which has been circulating since late last year. But don’t get it twisted, these guys’ music is as relevant as ever, having recently done feature interviews with Complex, Noisey, and NPR. Whether he’s at home with a gold grill in his mouth reading Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind, on a cell phone while out to lunch in a USA Olympics track jacket, or carrying luggage down the street in an overcoat and tie, there’s no doubt that Mel looks important in “Business Man.”

Entirely produced, written, and engineered by Mel and Dorian, Cognac/Four Corner Room takes listeners deeper into the individual spirits of the two founding members of the triumvirate that is The Outfit, TX. Released in November, the double-album serves as the first two installments of their five-part “Texan Chronicles” series. Having recently released visuals for “Free Yourself” and “Hourglass,” SPIN named The Outfit, TX one of five artists to watch in May 2014.

Check out the The FADER premiere: http://www.thefader.com/2014/05/06/mel-looks-important-in-business-man/

Watch the video for “Business Man”: http://youtu.be/xAtDqsNxzic

Download Cognac/Four Corner Room here: http://coolyfooly.com/album/cognac-four-corner-room

Tracklisting for Cognac by Mel:

1. Bitter (Prod. by The Outfit, TX)
2. Purple Diamond Tea (Prod. by Mel of The Outfit, TX)
3. isyagonshakeit? (Prod. by Mel of The Outfit, TX)
4. Business Man (Prod. by Mel of The Outfit, TX)
5. Munky Muzik (Prod. by Mel of The Outfit, TX)
6. Sweet (Prod. by The Outfit, TX)
7. Drunk Driving (Prod. by The Outfit, TX)
8. Drunk Sex (Prod. by The Outfit, TX)
9. Right Brain Tipsy (Prod. by The Outfit, TX)
10. Feeling (Prod. by The Outfit, TX)
11. Ride On (Prod. by The Outfit, TX)
12. Free Yourself (Prod. by The Outfit, TX)
13. Dirty South Rydan (Prod. by Mel of The Outfit, TX)
14. Voyage to Atlanta (Prod. by The Outfit, TX)

Tracklisting for Four Corner Room by Dorian:

1. Hourglass (Prod. by Dorian of The Outfit, TX)
2. Amazing ft. Mel  (Prod. by Dorian of The Outfit, TX)
3. Lonely Soul  (Prod. by Dorian of The Outfit, TX)
4. WAKE UP  (Prod. by Dorian of The Outfit, TX)
5. The Pursuit ft. King Me?  (Prod. by Dorian of The Outfit, TX)
6. M.A.R.S  (Prod. by Dorian of The Outfit, TX)
7. Girl Blue  (Prod. by Dorian of The Outfit, TX)
8. Odyssey of The Mind  (Prod. by Dorian of The Outfit, TX)
9. Straight No Chaser ft. Jay Hawk  (Prod. by Dorian of The Outfit, TX)
10. The Feel  (Prod. by Dorian of The Outfit, TX)
11. Ride On (Prod. by The Outfit, TX)
12. Everyone’s For Sale ft. King Me?  (Prod. by Dorian of The Outfit, TX)
13.  Appealing (Prod. by Dorian of The Outfit, TX)
14. The Rise   (Prod. by Dorian of The Outfit, TX)

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with The Outfit, TX.

The Outfit, TX Background:

Born and raised in Dallas, producers and rappers Dorian, JayHawk, and Mel make up the hip-hop band The Outfit, TX. After forming while in school at  University of Houston in 2006, they returned to Dallas to continue to work on their patented brand of “Cooly Fooly Space Age Funk.” Individually, each has their own respective sound and together, they expertly blend their unabashed Southern credo of smooth synth bass, moogs, 808s and synthesizers. Their first official studio album, Starships and Rockets: Cooly Fooly Space Age Funk The Album is a perfect exhibition of that sound. Voted one of the “Best Underground Rap Tapes of 2012” by Houston Press Magazine, the album made waves among top tier press outlets and set the stage for their current project, their double-disk album Cognac/Four Corner Room, which exists as two solo projects, conjoined at the hip to represent the juxtaposed unity of of TOTX. Complex ranks it as one of the Top Ten Texas Rap Mixtapes of 2013.

TOTX has performed with the likes of J. Cole, Wiz Khalifa, The Clipse, and Kendrick Lamar. They headlined their first sold out show at Warehouse Live in Houston, TX in March 2013, then hit the road, performing at several music festivals including A3C’s “Best in Texas” Showcase, and Spune’s Index Fest in Dallas, TX. The future holds much more for the three Southern gentlemen that comprise The Outfit,TX, who recently relocated back to Dallas from Houston. They might have put it best, describing their artistry as “one small step for Texas, one giant leap for Southern kind.”

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | youtube | soundcloud

“Business Man”: http://youtu.be/xAtDqsNxzic

“Hourglass”: http://youtu.be/x0lDBxN4HJA

“Stalactight”: https://soundcloud.com/theoutfittx/stalactight

“Purple Diamond Tea”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gjr7Zy-HyWI

“Free Yourself”: http://youtu.be/zDUUmTR_yzE

“Drunk Driving”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4OoSjpk9chQ

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

MP3: Dizzy Wright – “Reunite For The Night”

Funk Volume Releases Second Official Single from Dizzy Wright’s State of Mind EP

05.06.2014

Critical Praise for Dizzy Wright:

Selected as one of XXL’s Freshmen Class of 2013

“Amazing.” –  MTV News

“Dizzy Wright is captivating the moment you hear him“ – Complex

The Song:

Raised in Vegas, one would expect a flashy flow and cocky demeanor from Funk Volume rapper Dizzy Wright, especially as the nephew of legendary Bone Thugs-n-Harmony emcee Lazyie Bone. Far from this, the esteemed Sin City emcee shows his gratitude and takes time to reflect on his accomplishments in “Reunite for The Night,” produced by Roc n Mayne, from Dizzy’s recently released State of Mind EP. In the track, the lyrics affirm implication of an ode in recognition to all those who have supported him. Dizzy spits in third person to get into the mindset of his supporters of family and friends, rapping, “It’s good to see you/Glad you in town/I ain’t seen you in a while/you be holding shit down/keep making the city proud.”

With a funky bassline and heavy cuts and stratches, this track sets a reminiscent tone yet still holds as a celebratory party anthem. Dizzy raps, “Live by the three M’s: maintain, Mary Jane, make art.” Throughout the track, he carefully explains the lives of family and friends and their impact on his success, while addressing the joy he experiences when going home and reuniting with them. With a chill vibe, Dizzy continues to display his appreciation throughout the collection of tracks on the EP.

With Rockie Fresh being the only featured artist on the entire EP, it is clear that this introspective story is being told exclusively through his eyes. Following his highly acclaimed Golden Age mixtape, State of Mind is noted as being a “quality offering from an MC that has tastes success and wants more” according to XXL. Dizzy explains “success is a state of mind, and in due time, you gon’ hear my best work.”

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Dizzy Wright.

Dizzy Wright Background:

Not many 21-year old rappers can say that they’ve been rapping for over a decade. Las Vegas, Nevada, Rapper Dizzy Wright began rapping at just 8 years old, in the group “DaFuture” with his brother and very close friend; his mother wrote his raps at the time. Dizzy broke through when he was discovered at the Sheikh Music “Rip the Mic” competition in 2010 and signed onto Funk Volume a few months later. In April 2012, Dizzy released his first Funk Volume album, SmokeOut Conversations, peaking at #2 on the iTunes Hip-Hop charts. He followed it up with a free mixtape, Free SmokeOut Conversations, which has been downloaded over 200,000 times, and helped propel Dizzy to his own national 30-city tour. In December 2012, Dizzy went on to release the first of four EPs, The First Agreement, which reached as high as #2 on the iTunes Hip-Hop chart. In March of 2013, Dizzy gathered enough votes to be selected as the “People’s Choice” member of the XXL Freshman Class of 2013. Also in 2013, Dizzy released The Golden Age mixtape and followed it up with The Golden Age Tour. 

Funk Volume Background:

Funk Volume is a Los Angeles-based record label, marketing, and production company that been cited as a leader among independent rap labels with over 62 million YouTube views, 415 thousand Facebook likes, consistent Top 10 chart placements on Billboard and iTunes and high profile write-ups in media outlets such as Forbes, Billboard, SPIN, LA Weekly, and many more. Founded in 2008 by internationally recognized rap artist Hopsin and Stanford MBA grad Damien “Dame” Ritter, the label was created with one thing in mind: protecting the integrity of the artist’s vision. Currently home to rappers Hopsin, SwizZz, Dizzy Wright, and Jarren Benton and more recently, DJ’s and producers Hoppa, Kato, and Rikia, the label has quickly transformed into being a label to watch by fans and industry insiders alike. Funk Volume recently released their first documentary, Independent Living, which captures the artists’ swift rise during their 44-date national tour in 2012. The latest release from the Funk Volume label is marquee artist Hopsin’s Knock Madness. For more info: www.myfunkvolume.com

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | youtube | bandcamp

“State of Mind”: https://soundcloud.com/funk-volume/dizzy-wright-reunite-for-the-night-prod-by-roc-n-mayne?in=funk-volume/sets/dizzy-wright-state-of-mind-ep

“Everywhere I Go” Video: http://youtu.be/QKGy-CYIJPM

State of Mind: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/state-of-mind/id862583591

“Everywhere I Go”  http://youtu.be/94VZdOlkivk

“The Perspective” feat. Chel’le Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQhzYuhtEvI

“No Writers Block, I Like To Rap” (Prod. By 6ix): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDZszHqbm74

“We Turned Out Alright” feat. Wyclef: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Sa1izvqZpc

“World Peace”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-P1zQ2oj5MM

The Golden Age: http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/dizzy-wright-the-golden-era-mixtape.88771.html

XXL 2013 Freshmen Story: http://www.xxlmag.com/2013-freshmen/dizzy-wright/

“First Agreement”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YBgQzgngKZM

“Killem Wit Kindness”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tMVfAAynx-M 

Bio, pictures and streams available here: http://www.audibletreats.com/dizzy-wright/

News: Jarren Benton Named XXL Fan-Favorite Freshman for Class of 2014

Funk Volume is the Only Record Label to Have Artists Selected as Freshmen for Three Consecutive Years in the History of XXL’s Freshmen List

04.5.2014

Critical Praise for Jarren Benton:

“Benton has an extraordinarily nimble flow and sense of rhythm.” – HipHopDX

“…already creating his own lane and plans to turn a lot of heads.” – XXL

“As [My Grandmas Basement] unfolds, one thing becomes clear: [Jarren Benton] can handle himself just fine.” – Creative Loafing, 4/5 review

News:

Joining his labelmates Hopsin (Class of 2012,) Dizzy Wright (Class of 2013,) is Funk Volume‘s Atlanta/Decatur-based rapper Jarren Benton, making him the third XXL Freshmen from their roster and making Funk Volume the only label to have an artist named for three consecutive years. Even more impressive is the size of the label: Funk Volume has only four rappers, the fourth being SwizZz who has been quietly working on solo material for the past two years.

After releasing two successful mixtapes, Freebasing with Kevin Bacon and Huffin’ Glue with Hasselhoff,  a debut album, My Grandmas Basement, and a video that is fast-approaching 2 million views on YouTube, Jarren knows that the best way to people into believers is by touring. No stranger to touring, Jarren spends a lot of his energy connecting directly with fans by continuously hitting the road. Last year alone, Jarren toured for almost 40 dates with Rittz on the Life & Times Tour, toured Australia with Hopsin for one week, and spearheaded his first headlining tour, a 2o-date run named after his debut album, which debuted at #4 on the iTunes Hip-Hop Charts and #4 on Billboard Magazine’s Heatseekers Album chart.

The son of an indie record store manager, Jarren grew up studying the anything-goes showmanship of Prince, Marilyn Manson and Method Man and believes, “The essence of giving of a good show is not givin’ a fuck,” he says, while pointing to stage-diving, beer-chugging and more depending on the night’s particular vibe. This type of authenticity, balanced with intricate, golden ear-informed lyricism attracted attention from Erick Sermon (EPMD, Redman) to No I.D. (Common, Kanye West) in courting Jarren to potential major label deals over the course of his career. Funk Volume offered what Def Jam and the others weren’t and the decision to sign with the powerhouse indie label has paid off.

Says Jarren about being the People’s Choice winner for 2014, “After a lot of trials and tribulations, this honor shows the dedication, determination, and prayer I kept.” Continuing with a laugh he says, “Thank God I didn’t off myself whenI wanted to. Being on the cover is a huge blessing. I’ve still got a long ways to go.”

Jarren is currently working on his next project and is on a 70-date tour with Tech N9ne and Freddie Gibbs. Tickets available here: http://myfunkvolume.com/artist/jarren-benton/

Watch Jarren’s lastest video “Gimmie The Loot” video  here: http://youtu.be/4RQtj1MK-Fw

Stream Jarren’s latest album, My Grandmas Basement here.

Read interviews with Funk Volume’s Co-Founder Damien Ritter on Hypebot, HuffingtonPost, HipHopDX, and the LA Weekly

Purchase stream or download of Funk Volume’s documentary, Independent Living here

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Jarren Benton or getting a promo code to view the documentary.

Jarren Benton Background:

For an artist with serious mainstream aspirations, Decatur, Georgia’s Jarren Benton has spent his career going against the grain. One of Funk Volume’s premiere acts, Jarren admits, “I love the music I do now. I do it in the safe-mode.” That’s rather shocking for an artist whose last album, Freebasing With Kevin Bacon lived up to its name, at least in attitude and style, evident on single “Skitzo.” He continues, “I want to take it a lil’ further. I just haven’t had the balls to go all the way there yet, ‘cause I presently want to keep a foot in the mainstream too.” After two successful digital releases and a video with over one million YouTube plays, Jarren is currently promoting his Funk Volume debut album, My Grandmas Basement, which debuted at #4 on the iTunes Hip Hop Chart. In 2013, Jarren went on the My Grandma’s Basement Tour, his first ever headline U.S. tour and joined Rittz on his The Life And Times Tour. Benton is currently on tour with Tech N9ne on his Independent Grind Tour and was recently named a XXL Magazine Freshmen for 2014.

Funk Volume Background:

Funk Volume is a Los Angeles-based record label, marketing, and production company that been cited as a leader among independent rap labels with nearly 60 million YouTube views, over 400,000 Facebook likes, consistent Top 10 chart placements on Billboard and iTunes and high profile write-ups in media outlets such as Hypebot, Billboard, Huffington Post, SPIN, LA Weekly, and many more. Founded in 2008 by internationally recognized rap artist Hopsin and Stanford MBA grad Damien “Dame” Ritter, the label was created with one thing in mind: protecting the integrity of the artist’s vision. Currently home to rappers Hopsin, SwizZz, Dizzy Wright, and Jarren Benton and more recently, DJ’s and producers Hoppa, Kato, and Rikia, the label has quickly transformed into being a label to watch by fans and industry insiders alike. Funk Volume recently released their first documentary, Independent Living, which captures the artists’ swift rise during their 44-date national tour in 2012. The latest release from the Funk Volume label is marquee artist Hopsin’s Knock Madness. For more info: www.myfunkvolume.com

Links:

official site | facebook | twitter | youtube 

“Gimmie The Loot”: http://youtu.be/4RQtj1MK-Fw

“LIfe In The Jungle”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SCChw0rXnmQ 

“We On” Ft. Dizzy Wright & Pounds: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TF_VXpUPOTk

“Go Off” Ft. Hopsin & SwizZz: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQsPT4ejEpU

“Bully” Ft. Vinne Paz: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HZE-N1UqFMk

“Cadillacs & Chevys”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3wH81zTyJ

“The Basement Interview Pt.1″: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=htDPCAe_v3s

“Razor Blades And Steak Knives”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFW3ffGjJBY

Bio, pictures and streams available here: http://www.audibletreats.com/jarren-benton/

Video: Well$ – “Django”

Shot in Cape Town, The FADER Debuts “Django” Video from 19-Year Old Rapper Well$, whose MTSYD: The Revenge of the African Booty Scratcher Mixtape will be Released May 19th

05.05.2014

Critical Praise for Well$:

“Well$’s work always hits hard, and is overwhelmingly personal.” – Complex

“WELL$ flows atop the audio grit with some clever rhymes contained by a confident delivery…[the track] leaves us with high expectations…” – Potholes in My Blog

“Charlotte-based rapper Well$ is redefining swag one music video at a time.” – OkayAfrica

“Sludgy riffs, dusty drums… it’s a discernible throwback to that ’90s New York aesthetic.” – MissInfo.tv

“Watching him rhyme while sitting on the couch next to his grandmother is not only a beautiful sight, but also shows how easily he has this rap thing down.” – Noisey/Vice

The Video:

“We wanted to show a deal go down between a government army and a rebel militia,” says 19-year old rapper Well$, who’s decked-out in army fatigues in his South Africa-filmed music video for “Django,” which premieres via The FADER. The video was shot in two locations: at a friend’s house in Cape Town and at a YMCA in Klein Constantia, another South African city on the outskirts of Cape Town that sits near the base/middle of Table Mountain known for its wineries. For Well$, whose parents are both from Congo, this trip to South Africa marked his very first time stepping foot in Africa. Inspired by his new surroundings, Well$ found himself in awe of the location shoot for this video. He explains, “This YMCA wasn’t your normal gym. We filmed a good portion of the video in a field on their property in the middle of the woods and there were animals watching us film for the entire two-day shoot. A baboon was out there chillin with us!”

Surrounded by AK-47-wielding uniformed members of both armies, two enslaved men are pitted to fight against each other to the death as everyone else places bets and watches for their side to win. Inspired by both Django and  Lord of War, Well$ explains that fight scene was actually not supposed to be to the death, but felt like it would make the video more realistic, “’cause in life you may not get that saving grace.”

“Django” is the fifth single from Well$’ MTSYD: The Revenge of the African Booty Scratcher mixtape, which will be released for free download on May 19 via Immaculate Taste. Last week, HipHopDX revealed the mixtape’s cover art and tracklist. Speaking on the mixtape’s title, Well$ said, “It’s crazy, cause the ‘African booty scratcher’ came about when I was watching Boyz n The Hood. Watching that kid get made fun of made me think of my childhood and how bad I wanna shit on people from back then via my music. I wanted to make MTSYD undeniable.”

Watch “Django”: http://youtu.be/IxQH4VD9pSY

Check out The FADER premiere of “Django”: http://www.thefader.com/2014/05/05/conglose-rapper-well-gets-gritty-in-new-video-django/

Tracklisting for MTSYD: The Revenge of the African Booty Scratcher:

1. “Temporary Forevers” / “xxMONOLOGUExx” Prod. Eric G & PGMW (Co-prod. THE BL∆CK HE∆RTS CLUB)
2. “Savoir-Faire” Prod. THE BL∆CK HE∆RTS CLUB
3. “Lil’ Tommy” Prod. Shurik’n (Co-prod. THE BL∆CK HE∆RTS CLUB)
4. “Black Swan” – Prod. DJ Shlohmo
5. “Cercle Vicieux (Vicious Circle)” feat. Makeda Iroquois Prod. Massology
6. “TNGHT” / “AFTRMDNGHT” Prod. DJ Dahi
7. “GastonTwo09ine” feat. Johnny Polygon / “Dreams Of An Insomniac” Prod. Noah Yisreal (Co-prod. THE BL∆CK HE∆RTS CLUB & Austin Celaya) & Atu
8. “Major Paine (Daddy’s Little Girl)” Prod. Austin Celaya & THE BL∆CK HE∆RTS CLUB)
9. “Assiatou’s Interlude” feat. Obi Asiama Prod. Juke Ellington
10. “A$$WATER (Circa ’94)” feat. SisterMarie Warner / “Leroy Shingu’s Interlude” Prod. Ruddy P & PRKR
11. “Faux Gold” feat. Mibbs Prod. JKid
12. “Django” Prod. Wonya
13. “Bienaime’s Interlude” Prod. Ryan Hemingsworth
14. “Revenge of the African Booty Scratcher” Prod. Larry Achiampong
15. “Holy $ins” / “The Inauguration” Prod. PGMW & John Beats

Complex premieres “Dreams Of An Insomniac”: http://www.complex.com/music/2014/04/wells-dreams-of-an-insomniac-premiere

The Huffington Post premieres “Lil’ Tommy”: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/04/02/wells-lil-tommy_n_5079338.html

Noisey premieres “Savoir-Faire” video: http://noisey.vice.com/blog/well-savoir-faire-premiere

HipHopDX premieres “Black Swan”: http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/singles/id.26277/title.Well%24-Black+Swan

Well$ Background:

Like most kids in his native town of Charlotte, North Carolina, Leroy Shingu had a head filled with hip-hop dreams growing up, even trying his hand at freestyling when he was all of nine years old. But a trying background starkly different from the blissful suburban reality of his peers would compel the rapper better known as Well$ to turn that childhood fantasy into a promising career as a rapper. Quietly released in 2012, $ay La V, Well$’ debut EP rose steadily on the Bandcamp charts to peak at number 5 and eventually become the most downloaded album in the Charlotte area. This remarkable ascent as well as the video for the song “State of Ecstasy The Interlude Part 1″ hauled Well$ out of virtual anonymity, and shoved him onto high profile stage performances with artists such as G Eazy, Chris Webby, Johnny Polygon, and one of his idols, Pac Div.

Links:

bandcamp | twitter | facebook | youtube | soundcloud

“Dreams Of An Insomniac”: https://soundcloud.com/wells-music/dreams-of-an-insomniac

“Lil’ Tommy”: https://soundcloud.com/wells-music/lil-tommy/

“Savoir-Faire”: http://youtu.be/bVVggr8eheY

“Black Swan”: https://soundcloud.com/wells-music/black-swan

“State of Ecstasy Pt. 2”: https://soundcloud.com/wells-music/state-of-ecstasy-pt-2

“State of Ecstasy Pt. 1”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smsGIANkDfA

Bio, pics, and more here: http://www.audibletreats.com/wells/

Video: Zion I – “Masters of Ceremony” 

Filmed at Exclusive YouTube Studios Headquarters, New Vid Features Substance Over Hype Dance Crew

05.08.2013

Critical Praise for Zion I:

“Zion keeps the revolutionary fire spirit lit in the minds of the people.”  – Davey D’s Hip Hop Corner

“Producer AmpLive and emcee Zumbi want you to be moved not just by the music, but also by the message.” – HipHopDX

The Video:

Calling up the homies, finding a place to chill, laying down some cardboard, and popping a cassette tape in your boombox seems like something people would have done 20-30 years ago, but that’s exactly what rapper MC Zumbi and producer AMP Live had in mind for the latest Zion I visual for the the title track of their recent project, Masters of Ceremony. The good people at YouTube Studios, an exclusive $100 million dollar production space, invited Zion I and LA-based dance crew Substance Over Hype so they could film dancers popping, locking, doing cirque tricks with the cyr wheel and martial arts tricking over Amp Live’s production, heavy with Sister Nancy samples and low, cutting synths that slide between octaves. The track is from The Masters of Ceremony EP, the first of three free EP’s.

Composed of rapper MC Zumbi and producer AMP Live, Zion I wants to change the perception of hip hop by simultaneously infusing elements of spirituality and a mix of genres including trip hop, R&B and a bit of Latin flavor. Recently, the duo released part one and two of their three free EP series: The Masters of Ceremony EP and Libations EP. Following the sudden death of one of his closest friends, Zumbi turned his pain into the Libations project that broods with reflection and deep emotion. In creating The Masters of Ceremony, MC Zumbi says, “We took it back to ground zero in creating these songs. The sole purpose of the emcee is to energize, invigorate and guide the listener to a higher state of mind, whether that be reflection, relaxation or enlightenment.” Producer Amp Live adds, “For this first installment of the EP trilogy, we took it back to the simple essence of hard, straight banging beats and tight raps and these visuals of the dancers, with their bright colors and attention-grabbing movements complemented that perfectly.”

Check out the HipHopDX premiere here: http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/videos/id.16278/title.zion-i-masters-of-ceremony-

Watch the “Masters of Ceremony” video: http://youtu.be/7oK85F2ApFM

Listen to Libations EP: https://soundcloud.com/therealzioni/sets/libations-ep

Listen to The Master of Ceremonies EP here: https://soundcloud.com/therealzioni/sets/the-masters-of-ceremony-ep

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Zion I.

Zion I’s Background:

Since 1999, Zion I has released seven critically acclaimed LPs, including Mind Over Matter (1998), Deep Water Slang (2000), True & Livin’ (2003), Break of Dawn (2004), The Take Over (2009), and Atomic Clock (2010). They also have two highly acclaimed albums under the name [Zion I and The Grouch with long time collaborator The Grouch, Hereos in the City of Dope and Hereos in the Healing of the Nation. Voted best Bay Area hip-hop group by the SF Weekly numerous times, Zion I have been featured in media outlets from XXL, The Source, Vibe, YRB, 944, Prefixmag.com, Popmatters, 7+7, SF Chronicle, and SF Bay Guardian.

Having opened for rap royalty including De La Soul, Rakim, and Run-D.M.C, this duo of genre-bender pride has made a name for itself on the Bay Area scene. Oakland’s MC Zumbi and DJ/producer Amp Live blend hip-hop and trip-hop beats with lyrics focused on a message of unity, hope, and spiritual awareness while successfully mixing spiritualism and hip-hop. Their debut album, Mind Over Matter, was released in May of 2000 and features collaborations with fellow Bay Area rappers Rasco, Planet Asia, and the Grouch. Although Zion I operates out of Berkeley, the group was originally formed in Atlanta, making their music difficult to classify as strictly West Coast hip-hop. Their musical style makes them even harder to define. With a style that borrows from hip-hop, trance, drum’n’bass, and reggae, Zion I’s style is equally mystical and mystifying.

Links:

official site|twitter|facebook|youtube|soundcloud

“Masters of Ceremony”: http://youtu.be/7oK85F2ApFM

Libations: https://soundcloud.com/therealzioni/sets/libations-ep

Master of Ceremonies : https://soundcloud.com/therealzioni/sets/the-masters-of-ceremony-ep

Hella Fresh: https://soundcloud.com/therealzioni/hella-fresh-fest-mixtape

ShadowBoxing: The Remixes : https://soundcloud.com/therealzioni/sets/shadowboxing-the-remixes

News: Well$ Announces Mixtape Release Date and Reveals Cover Art

HipHopDX Announces May 19th Release Date for Forthcoming MTSYD: The Revenge of the African Booty Scratcher Mixtape

04.29.2014

Critical Praise for Well$:

“Well$’s work always hits hard, and is overwhelmingly personal.” – Complex

“WELL$ flows atop the audio grit with some clever rhymes contained by a confident delivery…[the track] leaves us with high expectations…” – Potholes in My Blog

“Charlotte-based rapper Well$ is redefining swag one music video at a time.” – OkayAfrica

“Sludgy riffs, dusty drums… it’s a discernible throwback to that ’90s New York aesthetic.” – MissInfo.tv

“Watching him rhyme while sitting on the couch next to his grandmother is not only a beautiful sight, but also shows how easily he has this rap thing down.” – Noisey/Vice

The News:

The fans have spoken. After reaching 15,000 listens on his Complex-premiered track, “Dreams Of An Insomniac,” Well$ is more than happy to reveal, via HipHopDX, the cover art and release date for his forthcoming MTSYD: The Revenge of the African Booty Scratcher mixtape. You can grab the mixtape next month on May 19th. For weeks on end, the young Charlotte rapper has been hard at work in the studio perfecting his sound and flow, exhibiting a level of composure and focus far beyond his 19 years of age. Patience breeds perfection, something Well$ discovered while working on his mixtape. Our patience will soon be rewarded with MTSYD: The Revenge of the African Booty Scratcher, a sophisticated project named after the taunting that is not only quoted in one of his favorite movies, Boyz N the Hood, but the same taunting he experienced as the son of Congolese immigrants.

Well$’s single “Dreams Of An Insomniac” is part of a plethora of recent releases from the young lyricist. Just last week, he debuted the “Lil’ Tommy” single in an interview with the Huffington Post. His “Savoir-Faire” music video created quite a stir after appearing on Noisey, with people succumbing to the charms of his Jordan-wearing grandma and his preternatural talent.

Check out the HipHopDX Announcement: http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.28524/title.well-mtsyd-the-revenge-of-the-african-booty-scratcher-release-date-cover-art

Tracklisting for MTSYD: The Revenge of the African Booty Scratcher:

1. “Temporary Forevers” / “xxMONOLOGUExx” Prod. Eric G & PGMW (Co-prod. THE BLACK HE∆RTS CLUB)
2. “Savoir-Faire” Prod. THE BLACK HE∆RTS CLUB
3. “Lil’ Tommy” Prod. Shurik’n (Co-prod. THE BLACK HE∆RTS CLUB)
4. “Black Swan” – Prod. DJ Shlohmo
5. “Cercle Vicieux (Vicious Circle)” feat. Makeda Iroquois Prod. Massology
6. “TNGHT” / “AFTRMDNGHT” Prod. DJ Dahi
7. “GastonTwo09ine” feat. Johnny Polygon / “Dreams Of An Insomniac” prod. Noah Yisreal (Co-prod. Austin Celaya & THE BLACK HE∆RTS CLUB) & Atu
8. “Major Paine (Daddy’s Little Girl)” Prod. Austin Celaya & THE BLACK HE∆RTS CLUB)
9. “Assiatou’s Interlude” feat. Obi Asiama Prod. Juke Ellington
10. “A$$WATER (Circa ’94)” feat. SisterMarie Warner / “Leroy Shingu’s Interlude” Prod. Ruddy P & PRKR
11. “Faux Gold” feat. Mibbs
12. “Django” Prod. Wonya
13. “Bienaime’s Interlude” Prod. Ryan Hemingsworth
14. “Revenge of the African Booty Scratcher” Prod. Larry Achiampong
15. “Holy $ins” / “The Inauguration” Prod. PGMW & John Beats

Complex premieres “Dreams Of An Insomniac”: http://www.complex.com/music/2014/04/wells-dreams-of-an-insomniac-premiere

The Huffington Post premieres “Lil’ Tommy”: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/04/02/wells-lil-tommy_n_5079338.html

Noisey premieres “Savoir-Faire”: http://noisey.vice.com/blog/well-savoir-faire-premiere

HipHopDX premieres “Black Swan”: http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/singles/id.26277/title.Well%24-Black+Swan

Well$ Background:

Like most kids in his native town of Charlotte, North Carolina, Leroy Shingu had a head filled with hip-hop dreams growing up, even trying his hand at freestyling when he was all of nine years old. But a trying background starkly different from the blissful suburban reality of his peers would compel the rapper better known as Well$ to turn that childhood fantasy into a promising career as a rapper. Quietly released in 2012, $ay La V, Well$’ debut EP rose steadily on the Bandcamp charts to peak at number 5 and eventually become the most downloaded album in the Charlotte area. This remarkable ascent as well as the video for the song “State of Ecstasy The Interlude Part 1″ hauled Well$ out of virtual anonymity, and shoved him onto high profile stage performances with artists such as G Eazy, Chris Webby, Johnny Polygon, and one of his idols, Pac Div.

Links:

bandcamp | twitter | facebook | youtube | soundcloud

“Dreams Of An Insomniac”: https://soundcloud.com/wells-music/dreams-of-an-insomniac

“Lil’ Tommy”: https://soundcloud.com/wells-music/lil-tommy/

“Savoir-Faire”: http://youtu.be/bVVggr8eheY

“Black Swan”: https://soundcloud.com/wells-music/black-swan

“State of Ecstasy Pt. 2”: https://soundcloud.com/wells-music/state-of-ecstasy-pt-2

“State of Ecstasy Pt. 1”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smsGIANkDfA

Bio, pics, and more here: http://www.audibletreats.com/wells/

Video: J Stalin – “G.I. Joe”

HipHopDX Premieres Visual from SID (Shining In Darkness) Album, Now Available on iTunes

04.29.2014

Critical Praise for J Stalin:

“As the owner of Livewire Records, West Oakland rapper J Stalin provides a place for the growth of incredibly creative, meat-and-potatoes Bay Area hip-hop. The label hosts gritty rubbery street music that navigates crack dealing devastation and grounded partying tracks with equal aplomb, with artists that range from Stalin himself to MCs like Shady Nate and Philthy Rich among others.” – SPIN

“Shining In Darkness is easily considered one of J Stalin’s most cultivating yet.” – XXL

The Video:

Fresh off the SPIN premiere of his SID (Shining In Darkness) album, J Stalin releases new visuals for “G.I. Joe.” Debuted by HipHopDX, the video features J Stalin and his Livewire Records crew in an Audi and Porsche-filled parking lot, covered in darkness from the Oakland night sky and a film of thick, white smoke. Highlighting the signature mob music sound the Bay Area is known for, J Stalin raps into an overhead camera, “Since 16, I done had this cheddar fetish/It was something inside me that told me go get it.”

Stalin’s track record supports that claim. SID is his 14th studio album, adding to his collection of 14 mixtapes he’s released over the past 8 years. His entrepreneurial prowess is unmatched by many artists his age. You can find his career tips featured in his list on HipHopDX. The album contains an impressive lineup of features with fellow Bay Area rappers Too $hort, E-40, Joey Fatts, Shady Nate, Iamsu!, and more. In their review of the album, XXL says “Shining In Darkness is easily considered one of J. Stalin’s most cultivating yet.” The album is available for purchase on iTunes and Amazon.

Watch “G.I. Joe”: http://youtu.be/bOvN6sPfiEQ

Purchase SID (Shining In Darkness) here:

iTunes: http://www.amazon.com/Sid-Shining-Darkness-J-Stalin/dp/B00I5NKPZ4/
Amazon: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/s.i.d.-shining-in-darkness/id838606733

Check out the HipHopDX premiere: http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/videos/id.16184/title.j-stalin-g-i-joe-

Read J Stalin’s 5 Tips for Sustaining His Career Over 13 Albums: http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/editorials/id.2376/title.j-stalin-s-5-tips-for-sustaining-his-career-over-13-albums

Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with J Stalin.

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | instagram

“G.I. Joe”: http://youtu.be/bOvN6sPfiEQ

SID (Shining In Darkness): https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/s.i.d.-shining-in-darkness/id838606733

“Regal”: https://soundcloud.com/jstalinlivewire/regal-feat-problem-prod-by

“Stay Strapped”: http://youtu.be/XEQ1FhJaJBk

“Anotha Quelo” (Remix): https://soundcloud.com/jstalinlivewire/another-quelo-remix-feat-lil/s-lQKUd

“Fuk That”: https://soundcloud.com/jstalinlivewire/fuk-that-feat-too-short-prod/

Bio, pics, and more here: http://www.audibletreats.com/j-stalin/

Video: ProbCause – “Chicago Style”

Rapper Pays Homage to Hometown in First Visual from Forthcoming WAVES EP

04.25.2014

Critical Praise for ProbCause:

“The rising rapper […] has continue to dominate his own lane, especially with his new project The Recipe Volume 2. Prob will have you locked in.” – XXL

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

“Prob has his hand in two different fields, which makes both his art and his music that more intriguing.” – FakeShoreDrive.com

“As this up-and-coming creative continues to walk the line between the subtly sinister and adventurous, his stock continues to increase.” – PotholesInMyBlog

The Video:

In the midst of a nationwide tour with electro-pop group Cherub, Chicago rapper ProbCause shares his latest visual, “Chicago Style.” Debuted by PotholesInMyBlog, the MC raps into the fluttering camera as the video also shows flashes of street art in his hometown’s South Side and Pelsin neighborhoods. Directed by APJ Films, additional b-roll highlights live performance clips from the tour, where ProbCause brings his energy to the stage with a drummer.

The song’s lyrics also pay some homage to the MC’s hometown, as ProbCause lyrics from fellow Chicagoan Twista’s “Adrenaline Rush,” rapping “so turn the bass kick up and bump, and let the rhythm hit off the trunk.” Two weeks ago, Noisey premiered the full audio version of the song, saying “he’s taken it upon himself to deliver a Chi anthem in ‘Chicago Style.'” Produced by Fortified Sounds and Drew Mantia, the full version includes an extended, House/Juke-influenced portion. From ProbCause’s forthcoming WAVES EP, which is set for a May 12 release, “Chicago Style” is the first official single, following a Hood Internet remix of “LSD,” which features Chance the Rapper and first appeared on SPIN.

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

Check out the PotholesInMyBlog premiere: http://potholesinmyblog.com/potholes-premiere-probcause-chicago-style-video/

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

4/29/2014 Baton Rouge, LA @ Varsity Theatre
4/30/2014 Bryan, TX @ Grand Stafford Theater
5/1/2014 Dallas, TX @ House of Blues
5/2/2014 Austin, TX @ Emo’s

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

ProbCause Background:

We drew a line in the sand, and ProbCause crossed it. Over and over again. Eventually, we gave up on drawing lines and left that to him. Not only is ProbCause a prolific rapper, but a painter too. Between SXSW, North Coast, Costa Rica, and tour dates nation-wide, ProbCause is keeping busy. When he’s not on the road doing shows, he’s getting friendly with his paintbrush and inspiring fellow students at the School of the Art Institute in Chicago. His sound jumps from hip hop, to electronic, to R & B, and then back to a classic boom-bap gritty rap sound. With stories that make you reminisce and a percussive delivery that highlights his versatile production, ProbCause is one of the most dynamic touring acts.

Links:

official site | twitter | facebook | instagram | soundcloud | bandcamp

“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

“Muffhugger” (feat. ProbCause): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfwGplBrAKc

“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/

Podcast: Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 155

New Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 155 Features Dizzy Wright, The Outfit, TX, League of Extraordinary Gz, Tynethys, and Nooch

04.23.2014

The Podcast:

Our Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast showcases the latest hits from our publicity clients. Jumpstarting this week’s episode is record label Funk Volume’s Las Vegas-based star and XXL 2013 Freshman Dizzy Wright with his song “State of Mind.” Fresh off his recently released State of Mind EP, the track gives us an intimate look at what goes on in Dizzy’s head. Filled with fat snare hits and a relaxed string section, he raps his credo, “It’s all about your state of mind.” Following him is Washington D.C.’s newest young rapper Nooch with “Feel This” from his mixtape Rookie Season. With smooth lines and quips, Nooch manages to take what he’s learned about music and form his own sound rather than copying his influences directly. Next up is League of Extraordinary Gz, the Texas rap collective, and their track “Billie Jean.” The horn-rich, snare heavy track is from their debut album, #LeagueShit. After LOEGz, fellow Texas rap group The Outfit, TX hits us with “Hourglass,” a track from member Dorian’s Four Corner Room. The project is part of the highly acclaimed double album Cognac/ Four Corner Room, released by members Mel and Dorian respectively. Topping the podcast off is Sacramento multi-talent Tynethys, and his wavy track “Stress” featuring Illecism. The rapper/singer/producer addresses his loyal pot priorities on the Thyluxe track, as he sings “hey, hey, hey, smoke weed everyday.” Stay tuned for our next podcast.

Listen to the podcast here: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-155/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2

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 155 – Dizzy Wright, The Outfit, TX, League of Extraordinary Gz, Tynethys, and Nooch:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-155/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2

Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 154 – The Doppelgangaz, Hopsin, ProbCause, Well$, and Blanco:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-154/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2

Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 153 – Jarren Benton, Caleb James, J Stalin, Noelz Vedere, and Tynethys:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-153/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2

Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 152 – Dizzy Wright, Well$, Noelz Vedere, Nooch, and The Outfit, TX:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-152/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2

Audible Treats Hip-Hop Podcast 151 –  Iamsu!, The Doppelgangaz, J Stalin, Booty Fade, and Tynethys:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hip-hop-podcast-151/id111088410?i=161316854&mt=2

MP3: Nooch – “Just Do It” feat. Wale

NahRight Debuts Latest Single from 18-Year Old DMV Rapper’s Forthcoming Sophomore Slump Mixtape

04.24.2014

The Song:

“I’m all about a check, Nike-Just Do It,” proclaims Nooch, the 18-year old rising rap talent from D.C., on the chorus of his new single. Premiered by NahRight, the song, “Just Do It,” features local legend and Maybach Music Group rapper Wale. Acknowledging that Nooch is the son of prominent D.C. street rapper Boobe, Wale raps “me and Boobe in a Ghost,” before also shouting out Nooch, saying “tell Nooch come, bring the whole streets out.”

“Just Do It” is the second single from Nooch’s forthcoming mixtape, Sophomore Slump, which releases in May and is a follow-up to last year’s Rookie Season. The first single, “Too Many” featuring Fat Trel, debuted on The Source. From Rookie Season, Nooch’s “Feel This” video recently premiered on HotNewHipHop, while the video for “Suge Knight,” from his collaborative project with Cerda, first appeared on AllHipHop.

Listen to “Just Do It” featuring Wale: https://soundcloud.com/nooch69-1/just-do-it-ft-wale

Check out the NahRight premiere: http://nahright.com/news/2014/04/24/nooch-ft-wale-just-do-it/

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

Nooch’s Background:

A listen to 18-year-old DMV-native Nooch quickly reveals an artist who listens just as much as he speaks. A certified engineer, Nooch is equipped with an ear for music that goes beyond the usual trap-inspired tunes of his peers within and outside of the DMV. While many artists strive to create a singular sound by which they can define themselves, the 18-year-old rapper rejects that notion all together, hoping that each song is its own experience that simply adds to a greater one. Thus, differentiating is where Nooch excels most. He nods to the artists he looks up to while adding his own essence to each track. His versatility combined with his fan-first approach to making music sets him apart from the sounds of his region and radio.

Links:

twitter | instagram

“Just Do It” feat. Wale: https://soundcloud.com/nooch69-1/just-do-it-ft-wale

“Feel This” Video: http://youtu.be/5fi2vHoQ0g4

“I’m  A Stoner” Freestyle: http://youtu.be/j6FeMCsosLU

“Too Many” Feat. Fat Trel: https://soundcloud.com/nooch69-1/too-many-ft-fat-trel

“Suge Knight” Video: http://youtu.be/PB7a-Y0LyRg

Rookie Season Mixtape: http://indy.livemixtapes.com/mixtapes/21994/oneway-nooch-rookie-season.html

“Gotta Go” Video: http://youtu.be/NyWbYZA6wPY

“Wit A N*gga” Video: http://youtu.be/7atmLbk-jQU