The Music Plug- March Issue by The Music Plug

EDITORIAL

Letter From The Editor

road blocks wRITTEN bY cLINT eASTHOOD fOUNDER/EDITOR/CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Parent Company JET SWAG Founder/CEO/Creative Director Eric J. Brown “Clint Easthood” VP/Chief Editor Ruth McClary Contributing Photographer Leland Moesley Graphic Designer Eric J. Brown “Clint Easthood” Advertising Sales JET SWAG CONTACT US THE MUSIC PLUG PO BOX 16135 DURHAM, NC 27704 NEWMUSICPLUG.NET NCEVENTPLUG.COM TWITTER.COM/ THEMUSICPLUG919 FACEBOOK.COM/ THEMUSICPLUG “The most important thing in business is honesty, integrity, hard work, family, and never forgetting where you came from” - Frank Lucas

“I don’t believe in road blocks. I believe the only thing that should stop you from achieving is death. If we let every obstacle or mishap prevent us from moving forward towards our goals we will forever be stuck on the path and never reach our destination. Our struggle is a struggle for reason, for what we want the most shall never come easy. “ -Clint Easthood

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THE RADAR

CHECKOUT NEW MUSIC, MIXTAPES AND MUSIC VIDEOS FROM YOUR FAVORITE ARTISTS ON NEWMUSICPLUG.NET

CURREN$Y AMERICAN GANGSTER 50 Cent continues to prove that “America has a thing for this gangsta’ shit, they love it” as he bullies his way through multiple industries with more brains than muscle. Fifty is set to star in a new movie, Freelancers, where he plays the son of a slain NYPD cop who later joins a group of rogue cops. This is 50’s second film under the $200 Mil 10 picture deal between his company Cheetah Vision Films, Grindstone Entertainment and Lionsgate. Along with making movies Fif has released his own pair of designer headphones called Sleek by 50 and has also dropped a few 2002 esque tracks building up the buzz for his 5th studio album. 2003 Ferrari, When I Come Back, and Run Up On Me were released over the past few weeks through the blog circuit and once again 50 has his name buzzing.

MUSCLE CAR CHRONICLES Before recording, Pilot Talk 1 and 2, Curren$y reportedly recorded Muscle Car Chronicles, a nine track LP and a short film to go along with the album. Slept on for too long since his Cash Money days, Curren$y has stepped up his release of quality material with his latest mixtape, “Return To The Winners Circle”. Muscle Car Chronicles is due out March 15.

JOHN LEGEND AND THE ROOTS GRAMMY FAMILY

John Legend and The Roots walked away from the 2011 Grammys with two Phonographs, one for Best R&B Song “Shine” and the other for best R&B album “Wake Up”. Much deserved.

HIP-HOP HEADLINES

THE RADAR

WIZ KHALIFA

CABIN FEVER

The marijuana connseuier himself Wiz Khalifa drops a surprise 8 track mixtape “Cabin Fever”. Sick!! After the #1 and Gold success of Black and Yelllow, Wiz Khalifa is on a tear. Wiz quickly brings you into his life of money, weed, and women. Cabin Fever features appearances from Big Sean, Trae The Truth, Juicy J, and Chevy Woods. Wiz Khalifa and the Green Carpet Tour will make a stop at the Raleigh Ampitheatre April 1.

LUPE FIASCO

The O.G of West Coast Gangster Rap Snoop Dogg still remains relevant on todays hiphop scene as he rides the wave of his latest hit “Wet” into the release of his 11th studio album...“Doggumentary” will hit stores March 29, featuring appearances by Kanye West, John Legend, Too Short, Wiz Khalifa, and The Gorillaz.

THE SHOW GOES ON Lupe Fiasco’s lead single for his forthcoming Lasers album “The Show Goes On” has reached gold status. This coming only months after Lupe and his fans won the battle with Atlantic Records for the release of the much anticipated Lasers, which will hit stores March 8.

EAR TO THE STREETS

CATCH FUNNYMAN BISHOP OMEGA MARCH 10 AT THE MILLENIUM HOTEL IN DURHAM, NC AT 8PM

Hop radio show on DUKE University radio to a role in David Tyree’s stage play Bishop Omega is putting in the work. I recently chopped it up with B.I.S.H.O.P to learn more about the comedian. What made you want to become a comedian? Really I’ve always been the “funny” guy, even when I was doing music I always told jokes in regular conversation and in my hosting of different shows. And people was like ‘yo you should do comedy’ so about 4 months ago I jumped on an open mic and it’s been on from there.

Q&A with Bishop Omega If you’re a regular at Sunday Night Sessions or at least been there once then you already know who Bishop Omega is and if you haven’t you’re about to meet him? The eccentric, raw and very blunt comedian, rapper, actor, and radio personality continues to make a name for himself through his multiple talents. From being the resident host of Sunday Night Sessions to co-hosting the LONGEST running Hip-

THIS MONTH HAS SEEN ITS SHARE OF HOT NEW MUSIC ON THE MARKET. WE'D LIKE TO SAY WE LISTENED TO THEM ALL AND HERE are SOME OF THE STANDOUTS.

When was your first stand up? What was that experience like? At the D.Hart Comedy Show @ Café Beyond in Chapel Hill, NC. And I was nervous as hell because I didn’t have anything to play off to actually tell real jokes. But the host liked me and asked me to come back, I have been rocking there ever since. Do you roast your audience? I roast everybody-- the host, the DJ, the audience, the owner of the club, no one is safe. But hacklers catch it the worst, I will make the show about them.

What is the worst thing someone can wear to one of your shows? Really anything that stands out like if you come in looking like you stepped off the set of a Lady GaGa video it’s on and popping. Or if you a chick and you too big for that outfit you in “oh shit!” I’ll roast you …lol No too bright suits or bio-degradable chains aka wooden chains. I guess niggas is going green. Have you opened up for any notable comics? Yeah, J Smooth. I don’t think he’s a household name but the dude is retarded. What kind of music do you listen to? HIP HOP raw non-Top 40 HIP HOP and stuff from the late 80’s and 90s, but I like Rock like Aerosmith and Green Day, R&B too What is the first song you listen to in the morning? It’s Raining Men and anything by 50 Tyson, that shit is the truth ….. Nah I’m playing but I listen to Pandora so whatever pops up on that joint. CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

EAR TO THE STREETS

TOP 10 SINGLES OF THE MONTH ON NEWMUSICPLUG.NET WIZ KHALIFA FEAT TRAE THE TRUTH, BIG SEAN PHONE NUMBERS

CHRIS BROWN F.A.M.E

Expect F.A.M.E to be Chris Brown’s reemergance back into mainstream R&B/Pop Culture to catapult him back into superstardom. F.A.M.E (Fans are my everything) drops March 22 with appearances by Lil Wayne, Justin Bieber, Busta Rhymes, Ludacris and more. Brown is also set to begin touring for the album in April beginning in Australia.

BRUNO MARS FEAT LIL WAYNE GRENADE REMIX TYGA FEAT PHARELL, SNOOP DOGG REALLY RAW

It isn’t worth anything unless you are willing to fight for it and Lupe Fiasco (and his fans) fought Atlantic Records for Lasers to be released and it will March 8. Lasers will feature vocals from Trey Songz, John Legend, Skylar Grey and more.

RICK ROSS FEAT MEEK MILL PERFECTIONISTS YOUNG JEEZY COUNT IT UP SQUIRE (PRODUCED BY YUNG RICH MUZIK) THAT DOE TERRACE MARTIN FEAT WIZ KHALIFA, TY$, NEKA B GO GET IT BIG SEAN FEAT CHRIS BROWN MY LAST MIKE POSNER FEAT LIL WAYNE BOW CHICKA WOW WOW REMIX BLAZE THE SKY THAT’S RIGHT

LUPE FIASCO LASERS

From Run DMC and Aerosmith to Jay-Z and Linkin Park its been proven that Rock and Hip-Hop make for some awesome collaborations. So who better to do it than “cool in any hood” Blink 182 drummer Travis Barker. Give The Drummer Some will hit stores March 15 with a slew of MAJOR hip-hop heavyweights like Lil Wayne, Rick Ross, Snoop, Ludacris, Pharell, The Clipse, Yelawolf and much more.

TRAVIS BARKER GIVE THE DRUMMER SOME

EAR TO THE STREETS

MIXTAPE SLOTS AVAILABLE FOR DJ CLINT EASTHOOD’S “WE GOT THE CITY” MIXTAPE SERIES EMAIL THEMUSICPLUG919@GMAIL.COM SUBJ: WE GOT THE CITY MIXTAPE

Who are your musical inspirations? Wow I have a lot, everybody from Rakim, LL Cool J, Eminem to Wu Tang to My URF Movaz fam. Whatever I think is dope. It’s cats that come to Jack Sprat that make me want to get back in the studio, but I’m not gonna say who, this my interview suckaz ….lol! What was your last project (mixtape, album) and do you have any upcoming? As far as mixtapes, the last one I hosted was Ease’s “Morning Wood Mixtapes” which dropped earlier this year. But I have a few upcoming projects like Zig Zag’s album doing skits and intros for him. The new URF MOVAZ mixtape also doing skits and intros for that. And some other cats got me set for some 16’s on their projects. But I won’t be dropping an album of my own, I may host a mixtape series with the right DJ. What can people expect from Bishop Omega the comedian on stage? And Bishop Omega in the booth? If you have been to Sunday Night Sessions the way I host is the way I do comedy I say shit that’s funny to me first and if you like it too then we have a show. I try to keep it as real as possible. Like most of the jokes I tell are things that have happened to me or someone close to me or stories I have heard. As far as the booth, my style is in your face gritty and loud. I use a lot of off the cuff punch lines and I need like 100 takes …lol If you had a choice Gangsta Rap, R&B, or Celine Dion when smashing? Man I actually smashed Celine Dion to Gangsta Rap, she love DMX.lol Nah, I don’t listen to music- thats some movie shit, I just cut on the TV and use that as background noise. But that do back fire when church pop up on BET early Sunday mornings …lol

What do you think about the legalization of marijuana? I don’t smoke myself so it doesn’t affect me either way but I do think they should. I mean I think its along the lines of alcohol as far the effect it has on people. And plus the Super Bowl commercials will be off the hook …lol What do think about Gucci Mane Ice Cream face tattoo? This is the perfect example of giving crack babies money. And not having that one dude with a level head on your team to roast your ass when you have dumb ideas None of my boys got Klondike bars, cans of spam tattooed on their faces cuz I’m that dude. If there’s one celebrity you could be the roast master for at their roast who would it be? Jay-Z, Lebron James, and Barack Obama (I said one...lol) On Duke Radio what is your time slot and name of show? Any special segments, can artists send you properly mixed and edited music to be played? Yea, the name of the show is the Street Flava Mixshow and it’s actually my mans DJ SAMPS show I just co-host it with him. But you can tune in on Friday nights from 10pm to 1230am on WXDU 88.7 and if you’re out of the area go to www.wxdu.org and listen online. We don’t really do segments it’s mostly about the music and we do interviews when people with real stuff popping off come through and we are most definitely a friend to the local artist so they can come up face to face to submit the tracks or send them to streetflavamixshow@gmail.com And if you don’t fit with what we do we will tell you why. And anything else you want to add, any

projects, shoutouts etc? Oh yea, when it come to this music stuff don’t follow what’s on the radio or what is popular at the time, that shit dies out after awhile. Make your own lane, get your core followers and you will eat forever off this music. And shout out to my son Josiah- love you man, the whole URF MOVA camp, Jax-on Diablo, O.Z., Skeemz, Zig Zag, Boggin, and the rest. The whole Sunday Night Session team Kaze, Third, DJ A-minor and the staff and owner of Jack Sprat. AFB team, Hiromen Bipp and the Homebase team, the whole Y?B NORMAL movement, DJ Samps, Dj Miz the soul control show. And anybody I missed I’m sorry or you’re not that important to mention lol… And hit me up on twitter @bishopomega for like show updates. I’ma try to have a million followers.

EAR TO THE STREETS

Inspirational Chat with Terri J. Stott In honor of Women’s History Month we take a brief glance into a professional songwriter and producer’s mind to find words of wisdom and encouragement for women in the industy and those climbing the music scale to stardom. The D.C. native has won numerous awards with Billboard, Song of the Year, UK Songwriting Contest, Indie Tunes, and Mid-Atlantic.

Who is your favorite female MC? Too many to name...many of the female MC’s have different styles you can appreciate. If you could be a rapper today what would your name be? Wow, this question really makes you think... I would say Terri J. which is what I am using now as I pursue my career as a songwriter/producer. What would you say to a young lady trying to pursue her goals who might be in the same shoes you were in back then? I would tell any young lady trying to pursue her goals is that if you dream it, it is possible. You have to take action towards your goals and believe it will make a difference because often going for your goals is a marathon not a sprint. It takes a while. Even when you fail along the way, those are key times in your life to learn so it’s not really a failure. If you choose to learn from your failures, you are actually positioning yourself for the success to come and you will be ready for it.

WATCH LIST

FASHION

WATCHES TO WATCH FOR WE’RE HERE TO SCHOOL YOU ON THE HOTTEST WATCHES TO ROCK COME SPRING AND SUMMER.

Meister Ambassador Machine Black Full Stainless Steel Meister Ambassador Carbon Fiber Dial with Carbon Fiber Leather Strap

Meister Chocolate Chief Chocolate Brown Stainless Steel Meister Chief Watch with Black Rubber Strap

MEISTER WATCHES

The proper watch completes the cipher and sets off your entire outfitting. So this summer don’t just rock any watch. Those digital watches are so last summer anyway, on to the next one and the next one is Meister Watches. Meister watches boast a sleek contemporary design, in various metals, tones and colors all put together by hand. Meister watch collections come in different levels: Ambassador, Chief, Superstar and Prodigy. Meister also boasts MMA superstar Anderson “Spider’ Silva and NBA point guard Brandon Jennings as celebrity endorsers of the brand.

FRESH LOOK SHERRY WOLF ACCESSORIES

Sherry Wolf howls with the big dogs as she puts an artistic flair on fashion with oversized Italian leather handbags featuring studded strands and laced facets with a boldness that pops off the color palette. The acclaimed artist momentarily threw down her brushes in 2004 to create a three dimensional effect, giving women adornments to enhance their canvases . Life imitates art…Wolf only offers limited edition handbags; making no more than 10 in each color per style like she limits replicas of her art. That forethought gives Wolf an edge that sets her apart; holding her own amongst big dog designers. Her accessories include huge bangle bracelets with chunky jewels or intricate silver or gold designs against dramatic colors and rich wood-grains. The necklaces are versatile, transforming into eyeglass holders with a few easy manipulations. The handbags and accessories come in beautiful vibrant colors to highlight any outfit, giving it the umph needed to make it pop on the streets. And they are made in the USA, a rarity in fashion products these days . As the industry dictates, Sherry had to find a way to showcase her designs so the public would take notice. Therefore, her latest artistry is a mock-up of the industry. It’s really real— real, staged reality TV! Sherry, whose career was built on satirical art, has found another medium to deliver more humor to her fans. A reality show that incorporates all the stereotypical facets of the fashion and music industries spiced with crazy racial innuendo to boot. She gives another meaning to the phrase “cry wolf” as she, her staff, and family push buttons by literally saying “whatever” to spark viewership and exposure to her line . Check out the craziness on Sherry’s reality show and find Sherry Wolf handbags and accessories .at Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom, or visit www.sherrywolf.com

CLEAR SOUL FORCES

WHO’S NEXT

IF THE CREATIVITY WAS LOST IN HIP-HOP, THEN CLEAR SOUL FORCES HAS FOUND IT In music it’s hard to find a duo or even a trio on the same page as far as skills are concerned. So rarely do you find a group of four young, humble and hungry artists who all bring something to the table on every record. The members of Clear Soul Forces, a group out of Detroit, met each other through local performances and showcases and then found themselves in the same studio about to record together. During that recording session they met Slaughterhouse’s, Royce the 5-9, who suggested they become a group... its been magic ever since. What is the definition of Clear Soul Forces? How did you come up with the name? Really, Kortez had already come up with the name. It came from some story that happened to him seeing someone wear some see through Air Force One shoes. But we bounced a few different names around. CSF was going to be AV Club, but a frat brother of ours had been in a group that already had that name. So we couldn’t use it. The name of the group didn’t end at just CSF. It was just agreed Clear Soul Forces sounded the best out of all the ideas. What about your music differs from the

music being played on the radio? Our music is good. We’re original, with more personality. But really, not following the formula made by conventional radio. We’re non-conformists. What is the music scene like for independent artists such as yourself in Detroit? To me, Detroit has one of the best underground scenes even though there are a bunch of wack rappers. It’s a very small political scene. It seems like niggas are only reaching out to people that are already in their immediate circle. Where have you performed as a group? What was you favorite place to perform? We perfomed at the A3C, it was one of our best performances ever. But we like anywhere that there’s a lot of energy and people are receptive to new music. But, I kinda feel like we haven’t performed there yet. Have you worked or collaborated with any mainstream or underground artists? None yet. But we will be trying to soon.

Name 5 artists and or producers you would like to work with? BLack Milk, Just Blaze, Premier, Nicolay, Big Boi, Black Keys Imogen Heap is a genius. Adele with her beautiful voice…. Monica Blaire, Toroymoi, 9th Wonder, Jay Electronica, Mark Ronson, Colin Munroe, Phonte, a bunch more. Name your top 5 hip-hop albums? Wimp - Aquemini Efav - Macccaveli Ila - Connected by Foreign Exchange Jroc – Illadelph Halflife – The Roots CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

Is what you’re doing now what you originally sought out to do professionally? If so why? If not, what happened that changed your original plans? I actually got into music by divine intervention. I am a songwriter/producer and not a performer. I had always loved music and have been a singer in the past. Life took over for a little while and then for some reason, one day, I felt compelled to write down a tune I had in my head. I then had to put it to music and looked for a studio. My career just went from there. Do you think women are treated more fairly now professionally in the music industry or does it still have a long way to go? The reality is whether you are a woman or a man, you have to be willing to work hard to make it in today’s music industry. You have to be driven, be patient and understand the business. What is the biggest misconception of a successful black woman? Interesting question. I would say a misconception may be that the success means the strong woman does not need support. Everybody needs that support. Who is your favorite female MC? Too many to name...many of the female MC’s have different styles you can appreciate. If you could be a rapper today what would your name be? Wow, this question really makes you think... I would say Terri J. which is what I am using now as I pursue my career as a songwriter/producer. What would you say to a young lady trying to pursue her goals who might be in the same shoes you were in back then? I would tell any young lady trying to pursue her goals is that if you dream it, it is possible. You have to take action towards your goals and believe it will make a difference because often going for your goals is a marathon not a sprint. It takes a while. Even when you fail along the way, those are key times in your life to learn so it’s not really a failure. If you choose to learn from your failures, you are actually positioning yourself for the success to come and you will be ready for it.

WHO’S NEXT But as a group we feel like Jay-Z’s Blueprint changed the game in so many ways. Albums that impact the way music is made afterwards deserve to be talked about. How are things different now from your first project together as a group (CSF Radio) to your current EP Departure ? One of our biggest differences is growth-- with our sound and lyrics. CSF Radio was recorded in one session, in 6 hours. But before, we didn’t have the time and resources on hand that we do now. What is one thing that every CSF fan should know about the group? That we just regular niggas. We ain’t Hollywood, we’ve been poor, but still been blessed with all the opportunities we’ve had. It’s a process to make moves in this game --- people kinda tend to think that we’re higher than we really are… but that’s because of our work ethic.

Any projects, shows, etc you would like to mention? Were going to Denton’s 35 Conferette to rock with Big Boi. Were also going to be at SXSW in Austin doing a showcase for FMWJ. We got a dope project coming right after that. But feel free to get at us on twitter, @clearsoulforces and Clersoulforces.com

FASHION

Mary J. Blige’s Shady Endeavor Mary J. Blige comes off a bit “shady” in her latest endeavor as the music icon expands her brand with melodic designer eyewear. It’s about time she tipped her hat into the ring as a celebrity designer; giving her fans an opportunity to showcase a lil’ MJ finesse. Melodies by MJB, a signature line of fashion sunglasses debuted October 2010 at upscale fashion retailers nationwide. The collection features four styles with a total of 20 color options priced from $165 – $225. Each style (The MJ, Red Carpet, Incognito, and Showtime) is labeled to represent a specific facet of Blige’s life. Tortoise frames encase wide dark lenses as “The MJ” signifies Mary’s beauty and confidence. Thin-wired color frames highlight large smoky lenses, giving a hint of disguise in the “Incognito” style. It’s “Showtime” as vented gold frames hold gradient mirrored lenses, drawing attention to anyone who sports them. The “Red Carpet” style epitomizes majestic grace; yet the whole line echoes that effect! The metal logo located near the hinges of the frames reflect teardrops in an oval sphere. That’s my take on a way to capture what sets women apart— their emotions.

The multi-platinum songstress along with her record company, Interscope Geffen A&M Records, and its Chairman, Jimmy Iovine, joined forces with Orange 21 Inc., to create a signature collection worthy to uphold her brand. “To reach out beyond music, an artist has to become involved with something they’re already associated with and truly feel passionate about and not just stick their name on someone else’s product,” said Iovine. “As her fans know, Mary loves fashion and she especially loves sunglasses, making Melodies by MJB a natural fit for her.” “We are incredibly excited to work with someone such as Mary who has such phenomenal influence in all aspects of the entertainment world,” added Stone Douglass, CEO of Orange 21, “However, the most exciting element is how much Mary loves eyewear and how committed she is to driving her new brand.”

Although many of her fans now have a shady perception, they can clearly see the truly inspiring megastar’s reach in music, and now fashion. Yet no matter what style of Melodies she chooses, Mary’s beauty comes from within, “U become what u think, so think something good about yourself today, no matter what any 1 believes,” tweeted by Mary J., 02-13-11. Ladies, think something good about yourself and find products to enhance your beauty because when you feel beautiful, you are beautiful! Find Melodies by MJB at www.melodiesbymjb.com or shop Bergdorf and Goodman or Nordstrom stores nationwide. Orange 21 is a Southern California eyewear company that designs, manufactures, and sells sunglasses under the Spy Optic, Margaritaville, and O’Neill brands since 1994. Quotes were taken from Melodies by MJB website.

Every person in the world has a unique DNA structure. Although grouped into categories of race and national origin, people are individuals first and part of the group last. With that said, where is it written that members of an ethnic group have to like all of the same things? Is there a majority code that must be followed with dress, mannerisms, food, and music to remain linked with the race? Of course not, yet people raise eyebrows when the unexpected pops up. Levi is one of those unexpected pops— like a tootsie roll pop his center is totally different from his outer shell yet the combination is pleasingly unforgettable. What gives Levi that pop? The way he challenges the norm to define himself. It shouldn’t be a challenge to be yourself; therefore, his motivation to push forward is what will catapult him into stardom. So, as the music cues in from a feature song on Levi’s album, sounds of a country hoedown blare through the speakers. Then wait for it because soon a smooth melodic voice enters the mix blending that country twang into a hot song. Not a country song or any genre of music, just a nice, soothing, harmonious vibe recognized as Levi’s Eclect, (pronounced E- Klect). Nashville is that feature song from the This Way LP that debuted in January 2010 and will become a classic because through this project Levi found his voice. The way to do a first album is definitely…This Way!

LEVI STEPHENS NASHVILLE AT HEART

“A few years ago I could have come out with an album,” said Levi. “I had enough songs for an album, but it would have been like another Musiq Soulchild or I would have been lost in some other art-form like NeoSoul, R&B or whatever. I wanted to find my voice and find my footing in doing something different, something not expected. It wasn’t like a gimmick, it’s just what I am; I mean I figured if I wrote and produced my music from the stand point of all my musical influences and background I could pull this off and it definitely came together the way I wanted it to in terms of the whole album.” “The song Nashville is not so much about [the city] as it is about me finding myself, finding

LEVI STEPHENS my voice,” he added. “The first line is the most honest line…’Right outside these city lines I’ve lived my whole life trying to find a place where I belong.’ I have literally lived off Central Avenue, like 10 minutes outside of D.C., all of my life. I never really fit in, in terms of musical preferences. My boys used to jone on me a lil’ bit about how I listen to white people music or rock and roll and I be like man, I listen to everything. It was all music to me, it didn’t have a color, it didn’t have a genre, it was just music.” “It’s like I don’t really fit into what everybody else thinks around here, in terms of how they look at things,” he continued. “So from that standpoint, I wrote the song...even as an artist I was trying to find out where I belong. A lot of people expected my album to be R&B. You roll with 702, Raheem DeVaughn, and I worked with J. Holiday so they were like yea, it’s gonna be an R&B album. And it wasn’t (he chuckled) so they was like, What? What is this? If I have to go anywhere, if I could find a place where I could fit in and know that I wouldn’t be the only one who loved and thought about music the way I thought about music—to me that place would be Nashville.” The album has an old soul; it stems from the spiritual roots of the church where his family introduced him to song and emerged into a fusion of true heartfelt music. “Honest songwriting was the overall inspiration for the album, said Levi. “I am an eclectic artist. I listen to Pop, Rock, Blues, Country and Soul... all that good stuff. There are certain facets of music I think are really unbalanced. And I feel like it’s because artists come together trying to sell records as opposed to making timeless music. Like Motown is still Motown that’s why they call it Top 40, it will always be Top 40. That music will never lose its impact.” “As a young person I want to make sure that the heart and soul behind that music; I don’t want that to die for the next generation. I really want to play a part if I can in trying to keep

WHO’S NEXT that music—music with substance, music with meaning, music that comes from a place of honesty. I want it to be felt. When Marvin Gaye wrote What’s Going On, that helped people. That made some of the craziness and some of the things people were dealing with and seeing in their everyday life make some kind of sense.” All the substance and feeling from Levi’s influences is delivered on stage. The self taught guitarist sprinkles a little variety into his performance style; singing solo, as a trio with a base player and drummer, with a five piece band, or with a violinist. There is no clear preference just a different feel in each instance and range of expression. “With the acoustic guitar there is a little more flexibility, I have a large repertoire of songs in my head more than probably the band and the trio have altogether,” said Levi. “ I can go anywhere in the set, like I can do some random song I heard on the radio that day that we don’t normally do in the live set, like whatever I hear I can do it and I don’t have to rehearse it first.” “The trio gives me another type of freedom in terms of my guitar playing because I get to stretch out and showcase my ability to play the guitar as opposed to just singing,” he added. “In the five piece, that’s like the smooth luxury ride. It’s like the leather seats and I’m really chill. I mean the energy is the same but I get to sit back in the comfort of four talented musicians that I know are covering every part and we have the flexibility to do some of the songs on the album that I might not otherwise do because I want that full band sound.”

the right song,” said Levi. “I mean I wouldn’t just do it just to be doing it. I want people to say oh, that was a good collaboration; I didn’t see that one coming.” Collaborations in the industry is common ground for Levi. He has worked with several artists along with writing and producing Join the Gang featured in the Fat Albert movie. Eventually he would like to produce songs for Disney, another timeless entity. This visionary has a humble spirit and recognizes that his talent comes from a source greater than himself. “Everything I have is God-given,” said Levi. “I am appreciative of everything I’m blessed with. I just was taking it in last night, you know, where I’m going and the doors that have been opened; so, I’m just grateful.” Talking with Levi was like reconnecting with an old friend. His sincerity was refreshing; evolving into his own despite the ridicule of being different. Open your minds and recognize real because Levi is a real, soulful artist with a promising career. If Nashville is a place where artists are accepted for expression of art-form without judgment, taunting, or stereotypical biases, then we all should have a little Nashville in our hearts! Follow Levi on Facebook…check for dates when he and comedian Eddie Bryant will be touring this area and get ready for the five song EP available this spring!

Acoustical guitarist working with violinists are not typical Hip Hop heads. Yet, Levi just loves music so it’s not surprising that he would like to collab with Hip Hop’s finest...Drake, Kanye West, Nas, Mos Def, Common, Jay Z, Outcast, and Scarface to name a few... “It’s a lot of Hip Hop artists I would love to work with if I could do a collaboration and do

WHO’S NEXT

SCHEME

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HELLUVA YEAR...AGAIN?

defining moment that made me realize this was it for me, I always knew it was, things just slowly started falling into place for me, and I took the jump. Who are your musical inspirations?

America is a melting pot; a gumbo of nationalities, yet everybody wants to know how everybody else fits into the mix. In the SCHEME of things, it really doesn’t matter as long as you are true to self...and this artist is very grounded in that sense. Born in the USA (Chicago), Scheme is a rapper with a clear perspective on the industry and where he fits into this music mix. And baby that’s all that really matters. His music is like a reality show on wax, minus the edited footage and scripted sagas. His lyrics are real world and worth hearing just as this interview is definitely worth reading. What began your pursuit of a music career? What was that defining moment that made you say I wanna make a living doing this? I realized that I truly enjoyed what I did, and that I would love to do it for a living. As far as what began my pursuit, initially it was the simple satisfaction of creating and trying to be the best at it. Then I realized the opportunities of making it my career. I didn't really have one

Way too many to name. Nas, Carlos Santana, Ramon Ayala, 2Pac, Jay-Z, Big L, Big Pun, Cadetes, Relampagos, Andre 3000, Canibus, AZ, Biggie, Sam Cooke, Bob Marley, Mana, Eminem, Vicente Fernandez, Kanye West, Cypress Hill, Alchemist, DJ Premier...I could go on and on. Everyone holds a special place for different reasons, but they're all inspirations. Explain your growth between “For My People” and your most recent project “Helluva Year Mixtape”? Just becoming a lot more in tune with the kind of music I wanted to make. I became aware of what I am trying to accomplish with my art, and I now have the direction I am going with it. I think I've learned to make music that can be enjoyed by anyone and everyone, in any walk of life; at least I think I do. I became one with my style, and refined my delivery and lyrics. Definitely headed in the direction I want to go in with my music now. What made 2010 a Helluva Year? I had a lot of small personal wins and accomplished a lot of personal goals I had set out for myself. From releasing three projects (SRNC - Mixtape, SRNC - Deluxe Edition, and Helluva Year - Mixtape), to performing a lot throughout the entire year. I gained respect from my peers, and I took the dive into music 100%. I collaborated with Fashawn,

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Buff1, and DJ Babu from Dilated Peoples on the Closed Sessions ATX project. And my trip to SXSW in 2010 helped me build a strong relationship with artists I looked up to as I was growing up. 2010 solidified me to a lot of people, and they realized I was someone they should be looking out for. The hard work paid off. Now we just need to keep it going, and we will. Whos your favorite producer to work with and why? That's a tough one. I honestly enjoy working with everyone that has produced for me at some point in my career. If I had to pick one, I guess at the moment I would have to go with the Sound Merchants, which is the production duo that entirely produced The Manifesto EP. The reason for that is because they are the only ones at the moment, that I've worked with hands on to produce an entire album. Everyone else I've worked with hasn't been as hands on with it, not by choice, but just because of circumstances. Schedules conflict, or sometimes they are in other countries, and we can't connect as easily. I'm definitely looking forward to working with Panik (Molemen) on this next album, since he will be executive producing the whole thing. Name a producer you have yet to work with that you would like to get in the studio with? DJ Premier and Alchemist. Name one song that means the most to you and why? I have to say it's "Chicano" for the simple fact that it was a risky song to make as a video and it carried a lot of weight when I wrote it. CONTINUED NEXT PAGE

WHO’S NEXT "Chicano" tackles a subject rarely talked about in Hip-Hop. I personally hadn't heard a HipHop song with that message. I wanted to bring both of my cultures together, and talk about the battle I've had within myself my entire life. It struck a chord with a lot of people and did more than I expected it too. The fact that I wrote and recorded that song in my basement, and released the album completely on our own, shot the video with my cousin and his friend who were film students at the time, but had never shot a music video; and at the end of it all, it was well received and the video was played on MTV, it made it that much more important to me, than it already was. What was the motivation behind writing it? The fact that I never knew where I was from. I was too Mexican to be American, and too American to be Mexican. My whole life it was a constant battle of acceptance. I was born and raised in the US, but my skin is brown; to White America I am not the prototypical American. When I went to Mexico every year to visit my family, the kids I played with would always ask me, "Where are you from?" I would say "From here", they would tell me "No you're not, you're from El Norte (the North), you talk funny." In my head, I sounded and looked just like them, but to them I didn't. I'm not from here or from there. That's where the concept of the song came from. How is the independent music scene in Chicago? It's real dope. I really dig where it's at right now. A lot of great artists, with a lot of ambition. I think we all finally learned to believe in what we have here and we're all pushing each other. We realize that we can make it to that next level, it just depends on who puts in the most work or knows the right people. But Chicago is in a great space right now. Our scene is incredible.

Where was your favorite place to perform and how was that experience? A favorite was performing at the Metro for Chicago Rocks a couple of years ago. One, it was the Metro, a well respected venue in the city. Two, it was in front of a lot of my peers and artists I grew up respecting. It put me on the same stage as everyone else that was doing it in our scene at the time. Although, there have been plenty of other memorable shows in many different locations. What can fans expect from a Scheme project? A solid, well put together project from front to back. You'll laugh, cry, think, etc. I like to think that I make really well rounded pieces that people can get into and not have to skip a song on it. I like making cohesive albums that make sense. Hard beats and great lyrics.

“I never knew where I was from. I WAS TOO MEXICAN TO BE AMERICAN, AND TOO AMERICAN TO BE MEXICAN. My whole life it was a constant battle of acceptance.” What is different about your music then the music being played on the radio? Nothing really, I think the quality is the same. Maybe just the subject matter and my approach towards it. My music is all me, I don't have a label telling me what kind of record I

need to make. Top 5 hip-hop albums? Maaaaan this is a tough one...top 5 Hip-Hop albums???? damn...Okay off the top of my head, keep in mind these are my personal top 5, not top 5 in general... 1. It Was Written 2. Capital Punishment 3. Illmatic 4. Reasonable Doubt 5. Aquemini If you could change one thing about Hip-Hop what would it be? Nothing. It all has it's place. We wouldn't evolve as much as we have as a culture if we didn't go through all the stages we have. We are the dominant culture because we've learned to evolve, but we're still young enough of a culture to remember the roots and keep them alive. Anything you would like to add? Any upcoming projects, single releases, shows, collaborations..etc? We have a new album in the works called "La Vida Fina" which will be excutive produced by Panik of the Molemen and DJ RTC of Ruby Hornet/Closed Sessions. Look out for more videos from the Same Rebel, New Cause (Deluxe Edition) album at www.youtube. com/scheme773. Also look out for the Closed Sessions ATX album which will be out on Decon on March 15, I have two joints on there. One with Fashawn, Buff1, and DJ Babu; and another with the homie Esso from out of New York. Thanks to all the fans for the support. I appreciate everyone who goes out of their way to buy the music and come out to the shows. Make sure to visit Scheme773.com to stay up to date with everything I have coming up. Respect all, fear none. Peace

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EAR TO THE STREETS

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Virgil Kent THE RETURN OF SUBSTANCE

Hip-Hop isn’t and wasn’t always about what you had, it was about what you said and how you said it. Somehow the creativity was lost through the glamour and glitz. Slowly but surely artists like Lupe Fiasco, J. Cole, Jay Electronica are bringing back that creativity but they all had to start somewhere, meet Virgil Kent. He’s where they were not too long ago, but we think his time may be coming sooner than you think. Where are you from originally and reside now? Born in Reidsville, NC...moved to GA & lived in Macon, Athens, & Atlanta for 9 years until moving back to Greensboro in 2004. How long have you been rapping? I've been writing poetry since I was in Middle School. One day a friend asked me to write a poem for his girl & he paid me $5 for it. I started selling poems and realized rapping was just poetry put to music. I took my craft seriously in High School when I was offered 2 record deals but declined both to focus on my education & school. What effect has where you grew up or reside now have an effect on your music? As a Southern artist the mass public expects us to look and rhyme a certain way, but I was never one to fit into a stereotype or mold of what someone else thinks of me. My parents raised me with a strong foundation in church as they are both ministers & I incorporate that into my music. As you can see I refuse to curse in my lyrics. I'm not knocking anyone that does, but that's 1 thing that separates me from everyone

else. In college I lived a bit on the wild side and got into the whole "Trap" scene & wanted to hustle drugs. The subject matter of my music was all based on this as well and when I listen to it now it makes me laugh. What was your main motivation or inspiration to start making music? It's what I love to do. I was asked one day what would I do if I didn't have to work, & had more money than I know what to do with? My answer was very easy, I would be in a studio all day making good music for the world. I have tracks that are motivational, uplifting, deal with everyday issues, or just something different the average person can relate to. When someone comes to me & lets me know one of my songs helped them through a tough time then I feel I accomplished a goal. I was born with a speech impediment. I have battled a studdering problem my entire life, but when I grab the microphone the studder goes out the window so I feel this is my element & what I was born for. Who are your musical inspirations? Andre 3000, Jay-z, Dr Dre, Eminem, George Clinton, T.I., Ludacris, Quincy Jones, Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder...I love Ray & Stevie because they both overcame the odds living with a disability to prove people who told them they couldn't do it wrong. What is the difference between your music and the music on the radio? one of the main differences is I have no need for radio edits. My music can be played anywhere.

The biggest thing I feel is that my music is 100% real and true-life. I never rap about murdering people, robbing, or shooting anyone, which is 80% of what you hear on the radio. Even people that have never lived the lifestyle can make a song about it & "blow up", but when the first test comes they crack under pressure & are exposed as fakes and their career is over. What was your latest project, who were the producers , guest features and any upcoming projects? My latest project is a mixtape I released entitled, "Mild-Mannered". This mixtape is hosted by Prop Joe and the Slip 'n Slide Dj's. I have production from The Dem of Maximus Music Studios, Dreez, Dangerous Mynds Production, J-Blaze, & C-Mac. Features are limited on this mixtape, but of course I have Prop Joe, J-Blaze, Ad-Vice, Big Wayne, & Krush. This is available for download at www.datpiff.com. My upcoming project is entitled, "Evolution" and it will be released early this summer in a store near you & of course online. What can fans expect from a Virgil Kent project? Fans can expect a once in a lifetime experience. Expect a lot of "real-talk" & reality. I know people are accustomed to purchasing a hip hop record & listening to an audio version of "Menace to Society" or "Boyz N the Hood", but that's not me. In my upcoming project entitled, "Evolution", fans will get the opportunity to come into my world & see what makes me tick. Everyone can relate to it because everyone goes through some form of evolution, or change in their lives. CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

EAR TO THE STREETS What you did in high school is different from what you did in college or what you did in your 20's, 30's, etc...what you once thought was "cool" or acceptable is no longer & that's what people need to see. Yes times change but you should strive for a change for the better overall. What is the biggest challenge you face as an independent artist? Being heard...as an artist you just want to be heard but when the fans stick with artist such & such because he/she is constantly forced down their throats, it's hard to bring that new perspective to the game. The industry is built on a group of copycats that constantly scream they want something new & innovative. For that one new artist that brings something new to the game, there are a slew of carbon copies that clog the pipe because this one artist has success a certain way. They look for every artist that fits that mold. I understand the game, it's all a risk, but at the end of the day why keep trying the same risks and expecting different results? Name one artist you would like to do a song with and why? Andre 3000...as a Southern artist, it doesn't get any better than Andre for me. He's very lyrical, can speak on just about any subject, & has truly evolved as an artist. If you listen to SouthernPlayalistic through The Love Below you see the complete evolution of a person who changed with the times. This is part of the reason my first album is entitled, "Evolution", itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about progressing as a man, as an artist, as an asset to society. Name one producer you would like to work with and why? Flip a coin between Dr. Dre & Just Blaze - they are the only producers I've heard that I've loved all of their beats. Not one flaw as far as I can see. They handle business & are production geniuses. They don't just create beats, they produce hit after

hit after hit. Name one of your favorite songs that nobody would guess would be your favorite? LOL...a lot of people may not agree with this, but this is 100% real, but I love Akinyele's record, "Put it in your Mouth"...no homo Name one thing the Hip-Hop game could do without and why? Fakes & fronting like you're doing big things when you're not. That is for artists, promoters, producers, record label owners, etc. Men lie, women lie, numbers don't. It's hard to believe people these days because so many have tainted the game to the point of making me want to do a complete background check upon meeting someone. Anything else youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to add? The name Virgil Kent has numerous meanings to it. One night while watching one of my favorite movies, "The Usual Suspects", I saw how Verbal Kent manipulated everyone around him to believe he was this handicapped, guy who was incapable of pulling off a major heist, when the whole time he was the great Keyser Sose. Virgil is my government first name so I just changed that around a little and call myself Virgil Kent. I love Rocky movies and Superman as well and we all know Superman's alter ego is mild-mannered Clark Kent. When people see Clark they see the outside shell of what he wants them to see, but little do they know that under the surface is "The Man of Steel". I have felt this way most of my life, I'm not gonna be that big flashy dude, I play the background and will be overlooked at times but when I'm called upon I demand all to take note and listen. As a lover of Rocky also I sometimes refer to myself as, "The Black Balboa" because just like Rocky I came from nothing, but my fight and my no give up spirit keeps me going and striving for better.

Sunday Night Sessions Open Mic Competition Winner Sponsored by The Music Plug

Check out the winner of The Music Plug/Sunday Night Sessions Open Mic Competition sponsored by The Music Plug, 2FiftyRadio, and D’VANESE PR. Zig Zag will be featured in the April issue of The Music Plug. For now check out this excerpt from his bio. Zigzag Da Arsonist was born a native of Durham , NC , also known as The Bull City. He began his music career in the 6th grade band where he was taught the basics of music and how to count bars. Shortly after he began writing, he began to put songs together. Influenced by a variety, he listened to Wu-Tang, Snoop Dogg, Mobb Deep, Jay-Z, Nas , Biggie Smalls , Busta Rhymes , Common, and The Roots just to name a few. Zigzag developed his own style which began as an aggressive delivery, and transformed into a more witty unpredictable flow. He has worked with Original Sin, Lil Yit, Jozeemo, Eddie Lovejoy, Loot-tennant Trax, and others. He is currently working with and affiliated with Urf Movaz Ent , and directly with Jaxon Diablo as his producer/engineer. Together they bring back the creativity and real energy to Hip Hop. Letting people know that you can be from the bottom or top and still make music that makes the people think , or music that real people can actually relate to instead of giving off fantasies, glamour and glitz. You can catch Zigzag locally at Jack Sprat in Chapel Hill, NC, or the Pourhouse in Raleigh, or Shakedown St. on the campus of NC State Univ. He is played on local radio stations, K97.5, WXDU 88.7, and 103.7 in Chapel Hill. Learn more about the talented Hip-Hop artist Zigzag in April’s issue of The Music Plug. If you’re an independent artist in the Triangle Area of North Carolina don’t miss the next Music Plug/Sunday Night Sessions Open Mic Competition at Jack Sprat Cafe in Chapel Hill, NC

NIGHTLIFE

You can now stream 2FIFTY2 internet radio LIVE 24/7 on NEWMUSICPLUG.NET and don’t forget to catch DJ Clint Easthood EVERY Thursday night from 7p-9p on 2FIFTY2RADIO.COM

NIGHT LIFE MIXERS Yes, you do have to wear green on St. Patrick’s Day, but no one said it HAD to be clothing. You know how Kool-aid stains your tongue, well take a little green sip of these drinks and kiss your pinching worries away! When they challenge you on your no-green status, just give ‘em the Gene Simmons tongue. Then have another drink!

LEPRECHAUNS KISS 1 OZ Dekuyper Sour Apple Pucker .5 OZ Kettle One Vodka 1 OZ Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice .5 OZ Simple Syrup 1 OZ Drop of Green Food Coloring Garnish w/ Fresh Mint

KISS ME I’M IRISH 1 Part Hornitos Platos Tequila 1 Part Dekuyper Island Blue Tropical Schnapps 1 Part Pineapple Juice 1 Part Mango Juice

EVENTS

ENTER SUNDAY NIGHT SESSIONS OPEN MIC SERIES EVERY WEEK IN APRIL FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A PROMOTION PACKAGE AND A PERFORMANCE SLOT AT THE OFFICIAL SUNDAY NIGHT SESSIONS SHOWCASE

Sunday Night Sessions Open Mic Competition

A night full of great energy and good music is the norm for Sunday Night Sessions at Jack Sprats but this night was different. The Music Plug, 2Fifty2Radio, D’VANESE PR, Straight Heat Radio and Online Indie Promotion sponsored Sunday Night Sessions Open Mic Competition where the winning artist or group would receive an online promotional package to include a full feature in The Music Plug. A lot of artists showed up and everyone that came to perform that night came with their game face on, ready to show music fans that they are ready to make noise in the streets of North Carolina. We had artists from Connecticut to Greensboro show up and put it down on the Jack Sprat stage and at the end of the night ZigZag from the Bull City took it home. We had local area DJ’s and producers in the building as well networking and mixing with the upcoming talent. Since that night alot of artists have been asking when are we doing the next one? Stay tuned... like Sunday Night Sessions on Facebook to see what we got planned for April.

ENTER SUNDAY NIGHT SESSIONS OPEN MIC SERIES EVERY WEEK IN APRIL FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A PROMOTION PACKAGE AND A PERFORMANCE SLOT AT THE OFFICIAL SUNDAY NIGHT SESSIONS SHOWCASE