On Friday January 8, 2010 Detroit's soulful songstress, Monica Blaire, broke records. I know what you're thinking..."Did she hit a high note and break a glass?" "Did Monica get the most amount of roses thrown on the stage in one show?" "Oh I know...Monica had the most costume changes?" Well unfortunatley she broke none of the above records. But what she DID do is bring in the most amount of people in the DIA's performance theatre. Over 900+ people were blown away by Monica Blaire's performance. I will be honest, I had never seen a show in the DIA, but I felt like I was in the packed room at the Fox Theatre.
This was no tiny show either. Monica is a show stopper. I've seen her perform countless times, but never in a setting like this. Monica didn't just give you a show, she gave you two! The first set was fun and full of energy. She even started the show on a low-rider bike...so gangster! She brought down the house in her first set with a surprise performance of "Renaissance State of Mind" with Ro Spit. What made the set even more epic was the big screen behind her stage set up that added a visual layer to the show.
The second set reminded everyone in attendance of where they were...Motown! Monica Blaire is the essence of Detroit Soul. Her band isn't just a DJ playing her tracks. Her band has horns, keys and percussion! If that weren't enough, she brought out Detroit Hip-Hop heavyweight Marv Won to spit a few quick bars. AND IF THAT weren't enough (at this point I honestly thought the show could get no better)...*shapow* out comes Burn Rubber Co-Owner Rick Williams who absolutely bodied the stage in a skat/tap duet with Monica Blaire. With the soul and power of Aretha, the energy of James Brown and the captivating presence reminiscent of Eryka Badu, Monica Blaire is a force to be reckoned with. And I promise you, you will look back on this year and go, "yea that was Monica Blaire's year"
I hooked you up with some goodies below.
Check out M-Bleezy's performance of "Promise Me" with Rick Williams....
Now on to what you've been waiting for...stills from the classic night. I did my best to capture moving moments throughout the night. I hope you like them.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Electric Slideshow: Ro Spit "Oh Sh#!t Project" Release Party (Drews)
TIP: If you click the link below the slide show, you can view the slide show full screen.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Late Night with Russell Howard/Ron Dance
When you hear about a rap show in Down River, you never really know what to expect.
When Ron Dance says he's putting on a show with a live band... you REALLY don't know what to expect.
On Thanksgiving weekend Ron Dance put on action packed show at a small venue in Southgate.
I wouldn't categorize this as your typical hip hop show. You know...DJ spins...rapper raps...dj spins again...more rappers rap....end scene.
This was more like Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, but the Ron Dance version.
Sounds by DJ Phrikshun.
With performances by Ron Dance, Marv Won, and Ro Spit (101)
House Band: The 22nd Street Band (Which tore it down!)
Surprise Guests: Dwele and Black Milk
The crowd was a little chilly from the jump but Marv Won's #bars and comedy warmed them up in no time. If you've never seen Ron Dance and Ro Spit perform "16...8...4...2...1" live, you are missing out. With the band behind them, they ripped shit! But the surprise mini-performance by Dwele brought the house down. By the end of the night, Ron Dance's crowd was singing along and two-stepping to the Michael Jackson tribute by the 22nd Street Band.
Peep the photos below...
When Ron Dance says he's putting on a show with a live band... you REALLY don't know what to expect.
On Thanksgiving weekend Ron Dance put on action packed show at a small venue in Southgate.
I wouldn't categorize this as your typical hip hop show. You know...DJ spins...rapper raps...dj spins again...more rappers rap....end scene.
This was more like Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, but the Ron Dance version.
Sounds by DJ Phrikshun.
With performances by Ron Dance, Marv Won, and Ro Spit (101)
House Band: The 22nd Street Band (Which tore it down!)
Surprise Guests: Dwele and Black Milk
The crowd was a little chilly from the jump but Marv Won's #bars and comedy warmed them up in no time. If you've never seen Ron Dance and Ro Spit perform "16...8...4...2...1" live, you are missing out. With the band behind them, they ripped shit! But the surprise mini-performance by Dwele brought the house down. By the end of the night, Ron Dance's crowd was singing along and two-stepping to the Michael Jackson tribute by the 22nd Street Band.
Peep the photos below...
Friday, November 20, 2009
The Fresh Air Tour. (Brother Ali, Evidence, Toki Wright & BK-One)
BROTHER ALI
Now you will have to forgive me, but I will have to request a late pass on Brother Ali. This cat is dope and he sold out Ann Arbor's legendary concert venue, the Blind Pig. Ann Arbor goes hard on a Tuesday nights apparently. Just one week prior, the place was almost as packed for my favorite rapper of all time, Ghostface Killah.
While watching Brother Ali rock the mic, I turned to a friend and said, "Man, this place is definatley at capacity" He turns to me and said "Yea...Ali always brings the people out!" Brother Ali reps the midwest tough. He hails from Wisconsin and grew up as a soulful emcee in both Minnesota and Michigan. I knew he was a force to be reckoned with when he slipped in a sneak diss on UM and NO ONE hated on him for it. (People are liable to get your leg swept for speaking anything but praises in Wolverine country. I've seen it happen)
I have my homework to do on this cat, but I like what I see. I remember at one point, I honestly felt like I was at church. Not because I felt like I was being preached to...but because the speaker had a message. He also has soulful and gospel infused delivery that only encourages call and response. Brother Ali is genuine, sincere and a baaaaad mothufucka! (Sorry B.Ali, my battery died before you got on stage :/)
Peep some his live stuff...
(Footage from Fresh Air Tour Stop, Tempe AZ, 10.22.09)
TOKI WRIGHT
If this was twitter, this is what I would say...
#tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright #tokiwright
I can honestly say that I can not remember the last time any hip hop artist has won me over immediately from the on set. I can honestly say that NO hip hop artist has won me over from the jump LIVE! I can honestly say that I haven't heard a debut album from a hip hop artist in almost 10 years that was spectacular from track 1 until the end... until this past Tuesday.
Toki Wright hails from Minnesota (Home of The Twins, Prince, Bob Dylan and Kirby Puckett). He's been around for a minute now and is just now releasing his first record. "A Different Mirror". Toki hosted the evening and stepped in as Ev's "hype man" during his set. But don't get it twisted. Toki aint a hype man fucker he a live band! I was absolutely floored when he took the stage. He had the crowd in the palm of his hand. I gave this guy a 10 out of 10 within 10 minutes based on his energy alone. The dude was so hype that he lost his shoe during his performance. Mid way through his set he asked who in the crowd had never heard of him before. I would say that about 85% of the crowd, if not more, had never heard of him. By the end of his set, it was clear that Ann Arbor would walk away knowing the name Toki Wright! Absoulute Dopeness!
I got a chance to chop it up with him after the show. He gave me a copy of his CD. Real talk...I haven't stopped listening to it since I got it. I put it in the minute I got in the whip after the show and I am actually listening to it right now as I write. He took his sweet time carefully crafting this record and it shows. Most debut albums have beats and cuts from homeboys and sound like shit. His production is epic.
How would I describe Toki? Take Blackstar's substance + Marvin Gaye's soul + KRS One's consciousness = Toki Wright.
Peep the vide from one of my favorite songs on "A Different Mirror" : "Devil's Advocate" (Pay attention to everything in this video and watch it until the very end. Debut vid cuts right down to the soul of this song.)
EVIDENCE
I have to say to say that I have been a fan of Evidence and Dilated Peoples for quite some time now. "Neighborhood Watch" was pretty much glued to my truck's cd player when it came out. The first time I saw Dilated Peoples was back in 2000 with Jurassic 5 on the Word of Mouth Tour at St. Andrews Hall. I've been a fan ever since.
Since Ev's work outside Dilated Peoples, he's been on his grind. The Weatherman LP....the business. The Layover EP...the business... His Step Brothers collab with the Alchemist... the business. My favorite line from Evidence....
"Got that don't call me I'll call you type-a-fire...Fake it 'till you make it....I'm such a good liar"
(from: The Weatherman LP track "Mr. Slow Flow")
I think I say this to myself about once a week!
You would thank that with the moniker, "Mr. Slow Flow" Evidence would be laid back in the cut on stage. And yes....yes he was...for a FRACTION of the time. Brother Ali, revved up the crowd's emotion, Toki got the crowd happy, BK-One kept the crowd moving and Evidence lit a fire in the audience. The crowd had their hands in the air the entire time. Evidence put on a captivating performance. If you catch him live, cross your fingers and hope that you get to hear the "Pros/Cons" a cappella. Dopeness!
Not only is Evidence a sick emcee, his production work is monsterous. Every single track that BK dropped resonated and shook the fuck out of the Blind Pig. The beat for Mr. Slow Flow is sick. If you haven't heard it...your late pass has been granted and signed.
Ev reps CA all day. While not on tour, he's getting it in at the stu working on his sophmore solo LP "Cats and Dogs". Im in eager anticipation of what this will sound like. He's steady been in Europe over the past year and I know he's been digging the crates so I'm interested to hear what influenced him overseas. He's also been getting in work with Fresno representative Fashawn who recently released "Boy Meets World"
Peep "Our Way" from "Boy Meets World"
Now that I'm done hyping up the Fresh Air Tour.... peep some pics below.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Detroitrap.com's Monthly Mixer Turns Into the Sixer!!!
One on very special Thursday every month you can go to the Bullfrog in Redford and peep The Monthly Mixer put on by Detroitrap.com. Michigan's hungriest producers duke it out round after round on the wheels in beat battle with what they consider some of their finest work. You will often catch artists like Street Justice and producers like Malaki The Most Hi, YC, DA the Don stealing the show.
But this month was dedicated to the born day of the hardest working lady in show business...SIX'TWO! Six put a show together of some of her favorite Detroit hip hop artists. The heavy hitting line up included Miz Korona, Moe Dirdee, Earlly Mac, PL, The Lyricists and of course Ro Spit.
Peep the Electric Slide Show....
But this month was dedicated to the born day of the hardest working lady in show business...SIX'TWO! Six put a show together of some of her favorite Detroit hip hop artists. The heavy hitting line up included Miz Korona, Moe Dirdee, Earlly Mac, PL, The Lyricists and of course Ro Spit.
Peep the Electric Slide Show....
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Lessons Learned From A Long-Hair-Dont-Care Roadie
At the Detroit Taste Makers League Sundays are my day to vent and give you personal stories about the tv show that is my life.
As a single lady *Beyonce plays* it's a little difficult to navigate the social landscape of dating at times. I'm not playing a victim here, I just know that it's complicated for both men and women. We grew up in the 80's and 90's where we watched music videos and epic movies that played a role in shaping how we view things. Thank God for parents who balance that out!
Well as most of you know already I grew up with a thing for white boys. No particular reason... it was my environment. But not only did I like white boys I like white boys with attitudes. Like the wise cracking Mike Sever from Growing Pains. Donnie "the Thug" Whalberg from the New Kids on the Block. Corey Haim...The 80's player. Rob Lowe the sex freak. You get my drift. Bad Boys.
Ive since grown up and shaken my primary affiliation with the vanilla vagabonds and opened up my world to an array of dudes who are no good for me. Let's review shall we?
(The names have been changed to protect the guilty)
Exhibit A ("Rudolph"): This one was a charmer. Tall... handsome... successful...funny... the list goes on and on. But what I failed to realize is that about 1,000 other females thought the exact same thing! We chopped it up, had a little face to face time, communicated every day buuuuuuuuuut it never really got anywhere? Hmmm okay something is wrong here (You will learn from Exhibit B that I am catching on a lot quicker now) In following the structure of yoga/buddhism it is always wise to follow the path of least resistance. That road was chock full of resistance. Turns out he's getting busy w/someone that I know!! For almost a YEAR!! Wow? Really? And she knew I was interested in him? Odd. Being played from both sides sucks. I was like a little bunny being attacked by a sexy lion while a Hiyeena stood in watch and laughed over my carcass. But hey he said he didn't play me like he could have. Thank God. Which he essentially is saying. "Hey Adrienne at least I ran you over with my Ford Focus! It could have been a School Bus"
Exhibit B ("Bryan"): We met. Exchanged numbers. Misscommunication happened. I dissed him, hard and a few times. Got back with my ex...Bryan was still on the brain...broke up with my ex again. Ran into Bryan...*stars shoot out of my eyes, cartoon hearts and bunnies and rainbows everywhere..."When the Moon hits your eye like a big-a pizza-pie that's amore plays* O sniggity snap. This guy is like the man of my dreams! He's talented, funny, has a heart of gold, amazing family, works hard, loves Caribbean culture...perfect right?? We start hanging out...feelings get stronger...months go by...he's still hurt from the diss...wants to take it slow...I'm patient...more months go by...no traction...just stares, moments, more interaction...WOOPS! After about 8 months of this...his homie gets a little liquid courage and tells me he has a shorty in the carribbean. What? Okay....#fail.
Exhibit C ("Dizzy"): We meet. We go out. We are dating. A few months go by...a young lady pops up out of NOWHERE and wants to be my bff. She's heard so much about me...bla bla bla. She calls me all the time, wants to hang out. But wait Adrienne...this doesn't sound too bad so far. Well my friend at this same time Dizzy becomes very distant. No returned texts, short on the phone. Alone time is short and awkward. Beginning of the end...I ask her if she's going to a particular party that night. She says she's not sure. Then asks me if I know if Dizzy is going. I said: Don't know. Probably. She said "O ok. I haven't seen him since this morning, so I don't know either."
woah Woah! WOAH! Pump yo brakes biatch. This morning???? Last time I checked when I see a dude in the AM I am either leaving his place or he's leaving mine. Breakfast buddies aren't the norm.
So I put two and two together. Random brawd who knows Dizzy wants to be my BFF. She saw Dizzy in the AM. They are going to a wedding together...ok...Adrienne...exit stage left.
Fast forward to 1 year later...She has the nerve to tell me she knew about me??? What the F is going on these days?????
So I was commiserating with some dudes at St. Andrews hall last week. Really cool guys. I was in a quandry about a fellow. (Not a shocker) They were more than willing to offer dude advice. So this LONG hair dont care roadie asks me out on a date. I said..."ummmmmmm" He says this:
"Hey listen, I know I'm probably not your type but I'm a really nice guy. And judging by the situations you keep putting yourself in, maybe you should reconsider what your type is. Have a nice night beautiful. O and you have a nice ass" (Real story.)
Pardon my french but FUCK MY LIFE! Why is it that I just can't seem to link up the nice dude with nice looks. Am I wrong for being attracted to the attractive? Does that make me shallow? I mean it's not the only thing I look for but shit! It's not my fault these handsome dudes that I like are charming as all get out. I can't say "O excuse me Mr. Sexy you are probably a dick so I'm not going to talk to you." I thought that exact same thing about someone and ended up in a relationship for almost 10 years. I saw him and said to myself..."Naw. He's too fine. He's definately a player. I'm staying away from him" ha....fast forward eight years and we were practically married. #fail. (Sorry for the twitter hash tags...its ruined my life)
I just know what I like and it just so happens to be womanizers. *sigh* Maybe it's a Virgo thing. We don't like to lose ever. So whenever I'm presented with a challenge or resistance, I do everything in my power to overcome it. I almost feel like I'm lazy if I don't. It's a tough row to hoe being a perfectionist. I also don't like being told I'm not good enough or I can't do it. That just makes me fight more.
Nice guys don't finish last with me...I just don't really ever notice they are racing. I'm too busy paying attention to the douche bag in the winners circle posing for the paparazzi with his medals and groupies.
.......
As a single lady *Beyonce plays* it's a little difficult to navigate the social landscape of dating at times. I'm not playing a victim here, I just know that it's complicated for both men and women. We grew up in the 80's and 90's where we watched music videos and epic movies that played a role in shaping how we view things. Thank God for parents who balance that out!
Well as most of you know already I grew up with a thing for white boys. No particular reason... it was my environment. But not only did I like white boys I like white boys with attitudes. Like the wise cracking Mike Sever from Growing Pains. Donnie "the Thug" Whalberg from the New Kids on the Block. Corey Haim...The 80's player. Rob Lowe the sex freak. You get my drift. Bad Boys.
Ive since grown up and shaken my primary affiliation with the vanilla vagabonds and opened up my world to an array of dudes who are no good for me. Let's review shall we?
(The names have been changed to protect the guilty)
Exhibit A ("Rudolph"): This one was a charmer. Tall... handsome... successful...funny... the list goes on and on. But what I failed to realize is that about 1,000 other females thought the exact same thing! We chopped it up, had a little face to face time, communicated every day buuuuuuuuuut it never really got anywhere? Hmmm okay something is wrong here (You will learn from Exhibit B that I am catching on a lot quicker now) In following the structure of yoga/buddhism it is always wise to follow the path of least resistance. That road was chock full of resistance. Turns out he's getting busy w/someone that I know!! For almost a YEAR!! Wow? Really? And she knew I was interested in him? Odd. Being played from both sides sucks. I was like a little bunny being attacked by a sexy lion while a Hiyeena stood in watch and laughed over my carcass. But hey he said he didn't play me like he could have. Thank God. Which he essentially is saying. "Hey Adrienne at least I ran you over with my Ford Focus! It could have been a School Bus"
Exhibit B ("Bryan"): We met. Exchanged numbers. Misscommunication happened. I dissed him, hard and a few times. Got back with my ex...Bryan was still on the brain...broke up with my ex again. Ran into Bryan...*stars shoot out of my eyes, cartoon hearts and bunnies and rainbows everywhere..."When the Moon hits your eye like a big-a pizza-pie that's amore plays* O sniggity snap. This guy is like the man of my dreams! He's talented, funny, has a heart of gold, amazing family, works hard, loves Caribbean culture...perfect right?? We start hanging out...feelings get stronger...months go by...he's still hurt from the diss...wants to take it slow...I'm patient...more months go by...no traction...just stares, moments, more interaction...WOOPS! After about 8 months of this...his homie gets a little liquid courage and tells me he has a shorty in the carribbean. What? Okay....#fail.
Exhibit C ("Dizzy"): We meet. We go out. We are dating. A few months go by...a young lady pops up out of NOWHERE and wants to be my bff. She's heard so much about me...bla bla bla. She calls me all the time, wants to hang out. But wait Adrienne...this doesn't sound too bad so far. Well my friend at this same time Dizzy becomes very distant. No returned texts, short on the phone. Alone time is short and awkward. Beginning of the end...I ask her if she's going to a particular party that night. She says she's not sure. Then asks me if I know if Dizzy is going. I said: Don't know. Probably. She said "O ok. I haven't seen him since this morning, so I don't know either."
woah Woah! WOAH! Pump yo brakes biatch. This morning???? Last time I checked when I see a dude in the AM I am either leaving his place or he's leaving mine. Breakfast buddies aren't the norm.
So I put two and two together. Random brawd who knows Dizzy wants to be my BFF. She saw Dizzy in the AM. They are going to a wedding together...ok...Adrienne...exit stage left.
Fast forward to 1 year later...She has the nerve to tell me she knew about me??? What the F is going on these days?????
So I was commiserating with some dudes at St. Andrews hall last week. Really cool guys. I was in a quandry about a fellow. (Not a shocker) They were more than willing to offer dude advice. So this LONG hair dont care roadie asks me out on a date. I said..."ummmmmmm" He says this:
"Hey listen, I know I'm probably not your type but I'm a really nice guy. And judging by the situations you keep putting yourself in, maybe you should reconsider what your type is. Have a nice night beautiful. O and you have a nice ass" (Real story.)
Pardon my french but FUCK MY LIFE! Why is it that I just can't seem to link up the nice dude with nice looks. Am I wrong for being attracted to the attractive? Does that make me shallow? I mean it's not the only thing I look for but shit! It's not my fault these handsome dudes that I like are charming as all get out. I can't say "O excuse me Mr. Sexy you are probably a dick so I'm not going to talk to you." I thought that exact same thing about someone and ended up in a relationship for almost 10 years. I saw him and said to myself..."Naw. He's too fine. He's definately a player. I'm staying away from him" ha....fast forward eight years and we were practically married. #fail. (Sorry for the twitter hash tags...its ruined my life)
I just know what I like and it just so happens to be womanizers. *sigh* Maybe it's a Virgo thing. We don't like to lose ever. So whenever I'm presented with a challenge or resistance, I do everything in my power to overcome it. I almost feel like I'm lazy if I don't. It's a tough row to hoe being a perfectionist. I also don't like being told I'm not good enough or I can't do it. That just makes me fight more.
Nice guys don't finish last with me...I just don't really ever notice they are racing. I'm too busy paying attention to the douche bag in the winners circle posing for the paparazzi with his medals and groupies.
.......
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
God Bless Jimmy Fallon for Supporting Hip Hop (Wale)
I don't have cable. So I have to rely on internet buzz to see what's poppin on tv. I'm not opposed to that. Helps me step my research game up.
Peep Wale on live on Jimmy Fallon with the Roots. (Dopeness)
If you haven't purchased Wale's new album "Attention Deficit" I recommend you cop heavy. They were running out left and right in stores, but Wale put out on twitter that management will be shipping out lots more soon. So noh worry. (It is Noh Worry Wednesday after all) I gotta support the homeboy since he's from my place of origin...Washington D.C. (I bet he knows my cousin...everyone knows my cousin)
Peep Wale on live on Jimmy Fallon with the Roots. (Dopeness)
If you haven't purchased Wale's new album "Attention Deficit" I recommend you cop heavy. They were running out left and right in stores, but Wale put out on twitter that management will be shipping out lots more soon. So noh worry. (It is Noh Worry Wednesday after all) I gotta support the homeboy since he's from my place of origin...Washington D.C. (I bet he knows my cousin...everyone knows my cousin)
Wyclef X Akon Collabo. (woah Woah! WOAH!)
What They Really Said Wednesday...(My Perrogative)
My Perrogative.
Classic Joint.
The King of R&B is confident, sure and focused.
But what's he really saying?
Bobby Brown - My Prerogative
Uploaded by jpdc11. - Music videos, artist interviews, concerts and more.
What He Really Said Was: I can bang old as Whitney Houston and bring children into the world and become a crack head if I so please. I don't need permission. I make my own decisions.
Classic Joint.
The King of R&B is confident, sure and focused.
But what's he really saying?
Bobby Brown - My Prerogative
Uploaded by jpdc11. - Music videos, artist interviews, concerts and more.
What He Really Said Was: I can bang old as Whitney Houston and bring children into the world and become a crack head if I so please. I don't need permission. I make my own decisions.
What They Really Said Wednesday...(Wasted)
"Rock star lifestyle might don't make it..."
I am going to confess, when I'm a little tipsy on the bubbly I start singing this song. Or I just keep repeating the phrase "I'm Gucci Mane Wasted" (I need to grow up, yes I know)
I've uncovered the deeper meaning behind this song: "Yes I'm intoxicated, but my Nig* gave this dope ass beat for like $45.00 so I am going to capitalize on suburban vernacular and the rock star lifestyle..."
End Scene.
FTR (For The Record) I also like saying "Gucci Mane" in front of other things that aren't necessarily good things like...
"I'm Gucci Mane busy"
"I'm Gucci Mane tired"
"I'm Gucci Mane broke"
I am going to confess, when I'm a little tipsy on the bubbly I start singing this song. Or I just keep repeating the phrase "I'm Gucci Mane Wasted" (I need to grow up, yes I know)
I've uncovered the deeper meaning behind this song: "Yes I'm intoxicated, but my Nig* gave this dope ass beat for like $45.00 so I am going to capitalize on suburban vernacular and the rock star lifestyle..."
End Scene.
FTR (For The Record) I also like saying "Gucci Mane" in front of other things that aren't necessarily good things like...
"I'm Gucci Mane busy"
"I'm Gucci Mane tired"
"I'm Gucci Mane broke"
What They Really Said Wednesday... (RunThis Town)
So we all know about the whole Chris Breezy and Rhi-Rhi thing right? Right! Ok. Good.
I'm sure you've all heard "Run This Town" with Jay-Z, Kanye West and Rihanna. Well if you haven't here's the video again.
But here is the real version of the video that Chris Brown and Rihanna's people don't want you to see. It's pretty emotional. I tried to warn you.
Via: Affion Crockett
I'm sure you've all heard "Run This Town" with Jay-Z, Kanye West and Rihanna. Well if you haven't here's the video again.
But here is the real version of the video that Chris Brown and Rihanna's people don't want you to see. It's pretty emotional. I tried to warn you.
Via: Affion Crockett
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
101: Rap For Dummies (11.5.09)
Have you heard of Detroit's newest rap super group? Well they go by the name of 101. They are all they got. They are a secret society where all they ask is trust. Sounds intense right?
101 is....
Ro Spit (1)
Marv Won (0)
Ron Dance (1)
They put on a super live show last Thursday at the Shelter. There were great performances by Phat Boy Chef, Jwan, Earlly Mac, Fatt Father and my personal favorite songstress Miss Monica Blaire. I have to say that The Shelter has never looked as pretty as it did that night, as the place was packed with foxy ladies. I guess 101 has that effect. (Some guys...)
Anyway...it was a dope show...
Burn Rubber represented tough. BR Fitteds as far as the eye could see.
MI Hip Hop superstars came out to show support as well. Guest appearances included T3 (Slum Village), Black Milk, Dwele, One Be Lo and Big Sean.
Peep the Detroit Taste Makers League highlight reel below...turn your speakers up
Now some say Ro Spit is the star of this highlight reel and took advantage of every photo opp possible. I disagree. But if you want to see and hear more Ro Spit.... download his new project here -------> THE OH S#!T PROJECT
Thursday, October 22, 2009
#weloveuhex
#weloveuhex
#stillprayingforhex
#weloveuhexandrobyn
#detroitmakestheworldgoround
Often times you hear the phrase, "Detroit Stand Up!" This phrase often comes as a part of a call to arms to rally the troops whether in support, defense or celebration of all that is Detroit hip hop. Well Detroit, Redford, Farmington Hills, Warren, Inkster, Dearborn, Ferndale, Flint, Miami, Cleveland, Chicago, Los Angeles and then some stood up in honor of our wounded yet not fallen soldier, Hex Murda.
Healthcare is no joke these days. So Detroit's hip hop family proved that they...er ...we are a family and came together to raise funds to help Hex and his family offset forthcoming medical expenses. For $10, a crowd of 700+ witnessed what was quite possibly the biggest Detroit hip hop show of our era. At one point the entire crowd was chanting "We love Hex! We love Hex!" It was awesome. Oprah would've hated every minute of it!
The night was hosted by Rochester's own "Rude" Jude Angelini of Shade 45 while Detroit's Ambassador to the world, DJ Houseshoes held down the turntables all night. The musical performances were AMAZING. Everyone who performed gave it their all and made sure the crowd knew the purpose of thier time on stage.
Performances included: (I apologize in advance if I've missed anyone)
Ro Spit & Ron Dance
Moe Dirdee
OneBeLo
Danny Brown
Miz Korona
Super MC
The Fat Killaz
The Almighty Dreadnaughtz
Black Milk
Guilty Simpson
Phat Kat
The Alchemist
Paradime
Slum Village
Trick Trick
The entire night was stellar. But a few moments stood out as highlights. Slum Village absolutely tore it down. They performed hit after hit. Everyone knew every word of every song. (I love those moments) But then it climaxed (girl shit) when Elzhi burned everyone's ear drums with one of the illest freestyles ever. Another moment was the lapse in time between Rude Jude introducing The Alchemist and The Alchemist actually coming out on stage. Noone really understood what Jude was talking about, until they heard the first few notes of "Hold You Down" and then *SHAPOW*...Alchemist on stage. The crowd took a collective shit in thier pants. Paradime must have taken a few lessons from being on the road with Kid Rock, because his time on stage was larger then life. (New album is going to be illy! plug plug plug) Miz Korona's set was bitter sweet for me. Bitter because her music gets slept on like a severe case of narcolepsy. Sweet because it was awesome watching those narcoleptics wake the hell up right in front of me when she stepped out on stage and absolutely murked it! Her recent work with producer Chanes is of epic proportions! The best moment of the entire night however, was the moment Ms. Robyn stepped on the stage. You could feel and sense her strength, integrity and thankfulness. If anyone needs a lesson in strength or the definition of grace under stress, she's the one to look at.
I could go on about how every performer did thieir thing, but you were probably there. If you werent there you missed out on great performances and appearances by tons of Detroit Hip Hop classmates including D12, Street Justice, Chief, Moe Dirdee, Dante, Quest McCody, Ty Farris, Mike Chav, Magnetic and Will Sessions.
But just because we had a great time at the show, it doesn't mean Hex and his family no longer need our prayers and support. If you weren't able to make it or haven't had a chance to offer monitary assistance to the Hex Family, you can visit www.paypal.com and enter the email address: thehexcarefund@gmail.com.
But for now...enjoy some pics from the event!
KEEP STANDING DETROIT!
#stillprayingforhex
#weloveuhexandrobyn
#detroitmakestheworldgoround
Often times you hear the phrase, "Detroit Stand Up!" This phrase often comes as a part of a call to arms to rally the troops whether in support, defense or celebration of all that is Detroit hip hop. Well Detroit, Redford, Farmington Hills, Warren, Inkster, Dearborn, Ferndale, Flint, Miami, Cleveland, Chicago, Los Angeles and then some stood up in honor of our wounded yet not fallen soldier, Hex Murda.
Healthcare is no joke these days. So Detroit's hip hop family proved that they...er ...we are a family and came together to raise funds to help Hex and his family offset forthcoming medical expenses. For $10, a crowd of 700+ witnessed what was quite possibly the biggest Detroit hip hop show of our era. At one point the entire crowd was chanting "We love Hex! We love Hex!" It was awesome. Oprah would've hated every minute of it!
The night was hosted by Rochester's own "Rude" Jude Angelini of Shade 45 while Detroit's Ambassador to the world, DJ Houseshoes held down the turntables all night. The musical performances were AMAZING. Everyone who performed gave it their all and made sure the crowd knew the purpose of thier time on stage.
Performances included: (I apologize in advance if I've missed anyone)
Ro Spit & Ron Dance
Moe Dirdee
OneBeLo
Danny Brown
Miz Korona
Super MC
The Fat Killaz
The Almighty Dreadnaughtz
Black Milk
Guilty Simpson
Phat Kat
The Alchemist
Paradime
Slum Village
Trick Trick
The entire night was stellar. But a few moments stood out as highlights. Slum Village absolutely tore it down. They performed hit after hit. Everyone knew every word of every song. (I love those moments) But then it climaxed (girl shit) when Elzhi burned everyone's ear drums with one of the illest freestyles ever. Another moment was the lapse in time between Rude Jude introducing The Alchemist and The Alchemist actually coming out on stage. Noone really understood what Jude was talking about, until they heard the first few notes of "Hold You Down" and then *SHAPOW*...Alchemist on stage. The crowd took a collective shit in thier pants. Paradime must have taken a few lessons from being on the road with Kid Rock, because his time on stage was larger then life. (New album is going to be illy! plug plug plug) Miz Korona's set was bitter sweet for me. Bitter because her music gets slept on like a severe case of narcolepsy. Sweet because it was awesome watching those narcoleptics wake the hell up right in front of me when she stepped out on stage and absolutely murked it! Her recent work with producer Chanes is of epic proportions! The best moment of the entire night however, was the moment Ms. Robyn stepped on the stage. You could feel and sense her strength, integrity and thankfulness. If anyone needs a lesson in strength or the definition of grace under stress, she's the one to look at.
I could go on about how every performer did thieir thing, but you were probably there. If you werent there you missed out on great performances and appearances by tons of Detroit Hip Hop classmates including D12, Street Justice, Chief, Moe Dirdee, Dante, Quest McCody, Ty Farris, Mike Chav, Magnetic and Will Sessions.
But just because we had a great time at the show, it doesn't mean Hex and his family no longer need our prayers and support. If you weren't able to make it or haven't had a chance to offer monitary assistance to the Hex Family, you can visit www.paypal.com and enter the email address: thehexcarefund@gmail.com.
But for now...enjoy some pics from the event!
KEEP STANDING DETROIT!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Dillanthology Listening Party Pics (10.13.09)
If you know anything about Dilla fans, you know that we know how to have a good time when good music and positive energy is in the air. That always seems to be the case at 5E Gallery. whether its discussions on the digital age of hip hop, grimy reggae after hours or a celebration of the musical legend of J.Dilla, you can always expect to walk away with a great story to tell. Every Tuesday night at 5E Gallery, they have "The Foundation" which honors and showcases women in hip hop. Well Dilla loved the ladies and the ladies will always love Dilla. Peep the scene below. TURN IT UP. RAISE IT UP. SHAKE IT DOWN
Monday, October 12, 2009
Detroit Makes The World Go 'Round (Literally)
This is short and sweet. I assume that you (Taste Makers Audience) are bright individuals and don't need me to go into detail about what's good this week....Peep the flyers below.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Detroit Taste Makers Selection: Exclusive: The Find Magazine X DJ Houseshoes Present… – The Shimmy [Mix]
"Detroit's Ambassador To The World" and the self proclaimed President of the Detroit Taste Makers League, does it again. After the release of the epic "King James Version" he gives us another treat. He teamed up with The Find Magazine and put out this ill mixtape..."The Shimmy".
The mix includes Royce 5'9, Fashawn, 14KT, Quelle, Shawn Jackson, Black Milk, Wajeed, 14 KT and oh yes Ghostface Killah
Follow the link below to get your ChristmasInOctober on...
Exclusive: TFM & DJ Houseshoes Present… – The Shimmy [Mix]
Houseshoes In Detroit Dates:
10.17.09 "The Fucking Get Better Bro" Benefit for HexMurda (St. Andrews)
(Detroit Hip Hop elite is in the building, come through, donate for Detroit's frontline...Hex!)
10.18.09: DJ Houseshoes at Oslo
10.20.09: Houseshoes Loves The Ladies (Spinning at The Foundation @ Elements Gallery)
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Ann Arbor: Not Just for Urban Outfitters anymore
Disclaimer: I would like to offer my official apology in advance to anyone who resides in or near Ann Arbor. And to anyone who is a fan by choice or by relation to the University of Michigan.
With that said.
I hate going to Ann Arbor. For one reason and one reason only. I get lost every time I enter or leave that city. EVERY TIME without fail. I wish I was making this up but it's true. I went to Oakland University and was a member of a sorority. We had a sister chapter at U of M. They made me go there to drop off candles once. I was 18 years old. I had to be at this house by 4 pm. I didn't show up until 6. Why? Because I got lost on state street, main street, tree street, whatever it was. I think my fellow "sister" put a curse on me because ever since then I can not seem to navigate my way through the city. Even now. I'm all grown up and rely on my blackberry to point me in the right direction. I automatically develop dyslexia when I have to go to Ann Arbor. If it's not on the same street at Urban Outfitters, I'm lost, so don't ask.
I don't like U of M. I don't think the people there are bad. I could care less about their sports teams. I partially grew up in Maryland so I was a Georgetown Hoyas fan. Then when I moved to Michigan this bully at summer camp said to me.... "Adrienne! You live in Michigan now. You need to like Michigan or Michigan State. What'll it be?" I picked State and rolled with it. No particular reason other than I like the color green and I heard that school had a lot of fun. And I went to Oakland U. which didn't have a football team and didn't go Division 1 until 2000. So whatever.
But beyond my habitual disorientation and indifference towards the Wolverines...Ann Arbor has got a WHOLE lot to offer to the world other than the jacuzzi suites hotel and a big ass Salvation Army.
Music.
Keep reading. This blog is dedicated to those fellas doing it real big. You should be proud.!
Ann Arbor's Talent Show Starring: Yoshi
I had the pleasure of meeting local hip hop artist, Yoshi last year at the Red Bull Music Academy Session. We chopped it up for a little bit about music ... nice dude.
Fast forward to Summertime 2009 and I'm talking to my homeboy D.Allie at the Mayer Hawthorne show in, where else... Ann Arbor. (For the record I got lost on my way to this show)
Me: Who's this Yoshi cat opening up for Mayer H.?
D.Allie: Oh! He's so dope!
Me: *blank face*
D.Allie: Do you like Lupe Fiasco?
Me: Yes
D.Allie: Then you'll like Yoshi. He's great! He's one of my favorites. I think you'll really like him.
Me: *blank face*
I have this conversation EVERY SINGLE TIME I haven't heard of someone. About 10% of the time I end up liking what I'm hearing. This time fell within that percentile! He came on stage and owned the crowd from the first #BAR. He had excellent stage presence...great mic skills...super smooth R&B infusion. (His big teddy bear hype man was a crooooooooooo-nerr!) The whole crowd was 2 stepping by the end of his set. I became a fan. But the thing is I didn't realize I had already met him! Once again we end up chopping it up. I cop his cd "Talent Show". (Yes I actually bought it at the show). Put it in the whip as soon as I left and loved it from track 1. It's funny. It's crisp. Definately a must for the rotation.
Fast forward to today...
He's released the video for his single "Magnetic" from "The Talent Show" featuring the homie Buff1 from the Athletic Mic League. The epilogue is a snippet from the track "Meet The Deadline". Great video. I give it 3 cupcakes out of 5. I would give it a 4 if I was in it. ha ha. Just not kidding.
Check it out...
Fast forward to Summertime 2009 and I'm talking to my homeboy D.Allie at the Mayer Hawthorne show in, where else... Ann Arbor. (For the record I got lost on my way to this show)
Me: Who's this Yoshi cat opening up for Mayer H.?
D.Allie: Oh! He's so dope!
Me: *blank face*
D.Allie: Do you like Lupe Fiasco?
Me: Yes
D.Allie: Then you'll like Yoshi. He's great! He's one of my favorites. I think you'll really like him.
Me: *blank face*
I have this conversation EVERY SINGLE TIME I haven't heard of someone. About 10% of the time I end up liking what I'm hearing. This time fell within that percentile! He came on stage and owned the crowd from the first #BAR. He had excellent stage presence...great mic skills...super smooth R&B infusion. (His big teddy bear hype man was a crooooooooooo-nerr!) The whole crowd was 2 stepping by the end of his set. I became a fan. But the thing is I didn't realize I had already met him! Once again we end up chopping it up. I cop his cd "Talent Show". (Yes I actually bought it at the show). Put it in the whip as soon as I left and loved it from track 1. It's funny. It's crisp. Definately a must for the rotation.
Fast forward to today...
He's released the video for his single "Magnetic" from "The Talent Show" featuring the homie Buff1 from the Athletic Mic League. The epilogue is a snippet from the track "Meet The Deadline". Great video. I give it 3 cupcakes out of 5. I would give it a 4 if I was in it. ha ha. Just not kidding.
Check it out...
Ann Arbor's League of Extraordinary Gentlemen.
Ladies and Gentlemen (Ladies pay closer attention)....say hello to Ann Arbor/Ypsi's ATHLETIC MIC LEAGUE
Buff 1
14 KT
Grand Champ
Texture
Tres Styles
Vital
DJ Haircut
They've been delivering inherently intelligent hip hop around the country since '98. Talk about paying dues. I don't know about you, but I was eating personal pan pizzas every day from Oakland University's pizza hut in '98. When you listen to their music you can tell they work very hard to perfect their craft. Thier lyrics have depth and layers and the beats, done by their sub-league known as Lab Techs, are RIDICULOUS.
BUFF1....There's only 1 Buff. You know that ONE dude with that big smile who can rhyme his ass off and is usually wearing a crown? Buff is one of the nicest people I've ever met in my life. And did I mention he can rhyme his ass off? I have gone to countless shows in my lifetime and I have to tell you that in my top 10 shows Buff 1 and Mayer Hawthorne fall right in line. Buff 1 released "There's Only 1" last summer and the whole mic league was there. It seriously was one of the best shows I have ever been to. I didn't know any of his lyrics walking in, but it felt like I knew everything by heart by the time I left. I even went to that show dolo.
Don't believe me? Peep his video for "Real Appeal" produced by 14 KT
14KT...He released "The Golden Hour" last year. I would like to rename this album as the "Platinum Gold 24 Hours", because these are some of the best beats I have heard in quite some time. This and Ghostface's new record is pretty much the only things I've been listening to. Since A-Side is getting a lot of shine world wide, I wanted to dive a little deeper and step outside of Detroit and find out who's really making noise. And 14KT is that dude. He's worked with Black Milk, Tanya Morgan, Guilty Simpson, Invincible, Now On (Also apart of the A.Side Family), World Famous Beat Junkies, Monica Blaire, D12 & Past Due. He has a classic musical structure. It's clear with defined lines and keeps you wanting more. What I love is that he's not afraid to mix it up. You can find him making selections from ghetto-tech to classic r&b and soul to straight street bangers and then back to gospel. Don't believe me? Well Red Bull thinks he's the shit and so do I.
DJ HAIRCUT... Well. He's Mayer Hawthorne. I am convinced that this guy is Jamaican. He's got like 5 jobs. He's a rapper. He's a crooner. He's a DJ. He's a producer. He's a 1/3 of a sick hip hop group! When he's not making me scream like a 16 year old circa 1962 watching the Beatles, he's doing all kinds of other dope shit.
Like laying hooks on my homeboy's tracks.
Like producing my FAVORITE SONGS with his fellow LabTechs...
Download: Guilty Simpson "Chief Pat Pockets"
Watch: Buff 1's "Beat The Speakers Up" (WARNING: LAB TECH BANGER!)
Making dope ass mixtapes... (I mean it's called Shoot The Duck, you should expect nothing less than greatness)
Click Here for a listen....but that's all you get, beacause this is sold out ------> HAIRCUT
He's also a part of one of my favorite groups out of MI...NOW ON...
He is the DJ for the AML AAAAND he's got BARS!!
Oh yea...and he's sings some classic soul songs too. So I've heard. Well at least that's what Ghostface Killah, Alicia Keys, Justin Timberlake and John Mayer told me. But they be some bullshit sometimes, so they could be lying. ;)
Ok...if you aren't convinced that Ann Arbor is doing great things and isn't just real estate for U of M...check out A.Side Worldwide for yourself.
Buff 1
14 KT
Grand Champ
Texture
Tres Styles
Vital
DJ Haircut
They've been delivering inherently intelligent hip hop around the country since '98. Talk about paying dues. I don't know about you, but I was eating personal pan pizzas every day from Oakland University's pizza hut in '98. When you listen to their music you can tell they work very hard to perfect their craft. Thier lyrics have depth and layers and the beats, done by their sub-league known as Lab Techs, are RIDICULOUS.
BUFF1....There's only 1 Buff. You know that ONE dude with that big smile who can rhyme his ass off and is usually wearing a crown? Buff is one of the nicest people I've ever met in my life. And did I mention he can rhyme his ass off? I have gone to countless shows in my lifetime and I have to tell you that in my top 10 shows Buff 1 and Mayer Hawthorne fall right in line. Buff 1 released "There's Only 1" last summer and the whole mic league was there. It seriously was one of the best shows I have ever been to. I didn't know any of his lyrics walking in, but it felt like I knew everything by heart by the time I left. I even went to that show dolo.
Don't believe me? Peep his video for "Real Appeal" produced by 14 KT
14KT...He released "The Golden Hour" last year. I would like to rename this album as the "Platinum Gold 24 Hours", because these are some of the best beats I have heard in quite some time. This and Ghostface's new record is pretty much the only things I've been listening to. Since A-Side is getting a lot of shine world wide, I wanted to dive a little deeper and step outside of Detroit and find out who's really making noise. And 14KT is that dude. He's worked with Black Milk, Tanya Morgan, Guilty Simpson, Invincible, Now On (Also apart of the A.Side Family), World Famous Beat Junkies, Monica Blaire, D12 & Past Due. He has a classic musical structure. It's clear with defined lines and keeps you wanting more. What I love is that he's not afraid to mix it up. You can find him making selections from ghetto-tech to classic r&b and soul to straight street bangers and then back to gospel. Don't believe me? Well Red Bull thinks he's the shit and so do I.
DJ HAIRCUT... Well. He's Mayer Hawthorne. I am convinced that this guy is Jamaican. He's got like 5 jobs. He's a rapper. He's a crooner. He's a DJ. He's a producer. He's a 1/3 of a sick hip hop group! When he's not making me scream like a 16 year old circa 1962 watching the Beatles, he's doing all kinds of other dope shit.
Like laying hooks on my homeboy's tracks.
Like producing my FAVORITE SONGS with his fellow LabTechs...
Download: Guilty Simpson "Chief Pat Pockets"
Watch: Buff 1's "Beat The Speakers Up" (WARNING: LAB TECH BANGER!)
Making dope ass mixtapes... (I mean it's called Shoot The Duck, you should expect nothing less than greatness)
Click Here for a listen....but that's all you get, beacause this is sold out ------> HAIRCUT
He's also a part of one of my favorite groups out of MI...NOW ON...
He is the DJ for the AML AAAAND he's got BARS!!
Oh yea...and he's sings some classic soul songs too. So I've heard. Well at least that's what Ghostface Killah, Alicia Keys, Justin Timberlake and John Mayer told me. But they be some bullshit sometimes, so they could be lying. ;)
Ok...if you aren't convinced that Ann Arbor is doing great things and isn't just real estate for U of M...check out A.Side Worldwide for yourself.
Ann Arbor's Unofficial Mayer...Hawthorne That Is.
If you haven't heard of Mayer Hawthorne by now, you should probably pack up all of your belongings and move to a bigger place. Because that rock you've been sleeping under is going to get awfully cold this winter.
His music started as just goofing around until Peanutbutter Wolf of Stones Throw got ahold of it. And PB.Dubb is no dummy. He knows good ol' fashion sangin' when he hears it. Signed DJ Haircut to Stonesthrow...Mayer Hawthorne & The County were born...A Strange Arrangement was released... and now Madonna and Whitney Houston are asking themselves "Who the hell is Mayer Hawthorne, and how did he outsell us I.Tunes?"
Let me repeat that.
He beat out Madonna, Whitney Houston, The Black Eyed Peas, Jay-Z etc. on I.Tunes
He's doing shows with my favorite...Ghostface...and selling out city after city.
When they said A.Side is world wide you'd better fucking believe it. Peep some live footage from the EchoPlex in LA
(For the record, this has over 28,000 views)
His music started as just goofing around until Peanutbutter Wolf of Stones Throw got ahold of it. And PB.Dubb is no dummy. He knows good ol' fashion sangin' when he hears it. Signed DJ Haircut to Stonesthrow...Mayer Hawthorne & The County were born...A Strange Arrangement was released... and now Madonna and Whitney Houston are asking themselves "Who the hell is Mayer Hawthorne, and how did he outsell us I.Tunes?"
Let me repeat that.
He beat out Madonna, Whitney Houston, The Black Eyed Peas, Jay-Z etc. on I.Tunes
He's doing shows with my favorite...Ghostface...and selling out city after city.
When they said A.Side is world wide you'd better fucking believe it. Peep some live footage from the EchoPlex in LA
(For the record, this has over 28,000 views)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
