THE NEW ERA FOR A NEW GENERATION OF DREAMERZ
Paris/Miami/Montreal/ March-April 2012
Follow me @TheCannonBMB
www.reverbnation.com/label/jibraneubanks
Dear Fans, Mr Dreamz magazine is the story of millions artists all over the world who got dreams. Dreams to shine, Dreams to rise, Dreams to live or simply Dreams to survive. Everyday, dreams come true, everyday dreams are broken. This is how the game goes. But after the rain, the sun rise. Mr Dreamz magazine talks about those people who keep faith in what they do. To those grinders who stand up and struggle for their rights, their talents, theirs skills. We feel the deep power that push them to the limit. From Paris, to Miami, L.A to Tokyo, London to Sidney, Rio to Johanesbourg, the voices from the streets shout, sing, rap, cry everyday, everynight. Who make the city? “We are the Heart of the city�. A true way to express how these people from the hood are active everyday. They are building the urban culture through their art. They give a color, a taste, an perfume to the whole city.Today, Mr Dreamz magazine let all those artists express themselves and become the link between the source and the media. We are the new era for a new generation of dreamers.
Publisher We So Smooth Entertainment LLC Editor in chief The Dreamaker Contributing writers Joha Brown, Winnie MC, B.B Bouk, Trish Cassis Photographers Destiny Brown, Christopher Levet Contributing illustrator The Dreamsignerz, Solomon Reece Mr Dreamz Canada Officer Mathew Perrault/ C.R.E.A.M Communication PR/ Marketting We So Smooth Entertainment LLC/ Yo promotion 4
SECTIONS SPOTLIGHTS ON. 8 From Miami to L.A, Mr Dreamz celebrates the urban scene with our 2 special guests ANDRE MC & Dubb.
LET THE STREET TALK. 20
The Next Big Thing is here! Listen to the underground voice from the Hood!
FRENCHIE: HARD WORK & LOYALTY. 32 Special BRICK SQUAD EDITION! He gives for Mr Dreamz magazine an exclusive interview, sharing with us his vision of the game & upcoming projects!
THE GAME GOT A NAME. 34 Introduces the RnB singer LAVONT DANIELS from MA through his goals, his grind & dreams!
MR DREAMZ CANDY. 40
Coraione Gordon is the sexy touch of this new issue. Come into the life of this pretty woman with ambitions.
FEATURES THADD WILLIAMS
RICH GRAHAM ONE CHANCE JADA DMAJUR TIESHA
l i L YOUTUBE: http://www.youtube.com/user/MrBaddaddy18
HINES
FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/jeromebaddaddyhines
TWITTER: @LilHines
Being from two different places, how was the music scene like where you grew up? I developed a passion for the “Musica LLanera” at an early age, which by comparison could be like country music here. And even though I had nothing against other genres, I wanted nothing to do with them. But when I started living in Miami and throughout middle school and high school, I got more involved with other types of music, Miami is a very multicultural city, therefore it led me to develop the love for all music that I have now. The public know you mainly for your 2007 reggaeton hit “Caballo Viejo”. Who is the team behind that single? Was it a decisive moment in your career? Having the opportunity of Collaborating with the great ROBERTO TORRES on this project was an honor for me at the highest level. This song being the classic that it is, definitely was a decisive moment for my career. I started recording my album “Lirykal” at Univibe Studio with the direction of my good friend and mentor Alex Arias, who believed I was the perfect person to bring together with Roberto Torres on this Remix. Alex was well aware that this song (written by Simon Diaz) meant a great deal to me, since I had been listening and playing it with my cuatro (Venezuelan Instrument) from childhood. He approached me with this idea and I was honored to accept.
Talking about highlights... Your participation in Sunfest, last year, was another big moment for you..Can you share that with us? Sunfest was awesome, all the energy coming from a crowd 10,000 strong, is something I had never experienced before. When my agent Raul Zeballos told me that we were going to be part of this event, I didn’t think it was going to be as huge as it was, I was blown away by the amount of people there, and the fans loved it just as I did, I had a lot of fun on that performance. But the icing on the cake was when the show was over after an electric hour, and the crowd wanted more, they went CRAZY screaming for more 8
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otra, otra, otra (asking for another song in Spanish)!!! So I had to come out once again for one last song. That was a dream made reality, truly magical. How did you hook up with Brisco for the “Trendsettaz song”? Are you preparing a video for that new single? This collaboration was possible through the effectiveness of my agent/business partner Raul Zeballos. Dj Primo, the producer of this track, got in contact with Raul for this project, and they told me that Brisco was on it, so once they sent us the track, and I listened to it, lyrics and flows started coming to me, so immediately I felt the fiya and got to work. With the success of this track, there’s a great possibility of a video shoot for this track. It certainly deserves it. There seems to be such an energy with what’s coming out from Miami. How are you building your movement? Artists i’ve encountered have shown love and respect towards me. I really believe that good connections is vital in this business, so i have made it my business to gather important contacts that support my work, and a promotional team that is attacking the social media with great force. So that whenever I have new material to release, it can reach a massive amount of people in the shortest time possible. Miami is a fusion of cultures, it is a city of immigrants from every corner of the globe that creates the opportunity for unique musical styles. What are your projects for 2012? Our main project for 2012 is my crossover into English language music, bringing the Latin flavor of Latin America and Miami to Hip Hop. I am currently working on several English tracks, so the crossover is happening as we speak. This 2012 is an exciting year for me, because with the help of my team, I intend to take my voice and music globally. As Raul says my music is music for everybody English, Spanish, Black, Latino, White, Asian, and anyone else I missed. My music is for all of you. I want all of you to enjoy listening to my music, as much as I and everyone in my team enjoy making it.
www.planetandre.com
“
My music is for all of you” TWITTER @planetandre305
The Words You choose to Describe Yourself are “Determined – Unique- Beyond- Belief”? Explain Why? The reason why I choose the name Dubb is because I felt that the meaning behind the name best describes who I am. I know that I am a very “Determined” person as I always give my fans my all in my music. “Unique” Is representative of the fact that I believe that I am one of a kind as my flow, my style, my swagger, and my lyrical content is something that can’t be compare or duplicated. As far as Beyond-Belief, well I feel that I am Determined and Unique Beyond- Belief because I ain’t out here trying to sound like anybody else or copy anyone else’s style. I know I have a powerful story in terms of my journey not only in music but in life period. I hope to one day inspire people around the world to be and remain determined while staying true to who they are at the same time. Do You Consider Yourself as a Pure West Coast Hip Hop Representa? What is Dubb’s World? No I don’t, even though I’m from Los Angeles, I don’t like when people make it seem like I only need to make music for the West Coast . I want to make music that inspires everyone around the world, I want to people to have a good time. I also want to affect people who are hopeless by showing them that there’s still a way out. This is a lot bigger than just the “West Coast” or the “East Coast” or the “South”. I’m trying to dominate globally and get respect everywhere from America all the way to the India. As King Of Mixtapes Who are your fans? Is your movement is local? National? More? I feel that my movement is still growing but at the same time it is expanding and I am starting to get recognition beyond the West Coast. Countries like the UK, Canada, Japan, & Germany have been showing me a lot of support which I appreciate so much. My team is making sure that we capitalize off of the Social Media network as much as possible. We are in the age of the Internet which really makes connections a lot easier as it has also raised and created new possibilities for artists. 10
After so many mixtapes released in the streets, do you feel yourself mature & established enough to work on an album? Definitely! I know that I am ready because my work speaks for itself. I have proven that I am a well balanced artist and instead of waiting on my opportunity, I am creating it! I always approach my mixtape’s the same way that I would approach putting out an album. I make all original music, I do my own beat selection, I ‘m in the studio 24/7. I understand what needs to be done and what is expected of me. Especially with my last two mixtapes the “Face Of California” & “The Departure” the growth is evident, I am a lot more open to need Ideas as I am creatively trying new and different things. Who is the Team behind Dubb music? Have you already received any interests from other labels or Majors? My team pretty much consists of all of my supporters which also includes my DJ & Management. I have received interest from representatives at labels such as Konvict Music, Sony, & Interscope. Right now I am concentrated on getting involved with the right situation that’s most beneficial for me and my brand. I am not about to take a deal just to take a deal. I know what my worth is and with that being said hopefully in the very near future a situation will arise that will be good for both parties so I can start making and pushing that timeless music that my fans love on a whole new level. Any particular messages for the readers? First and foremost, I want to give a big shout out to everyone up at the hottest magazine in the game right now Mr Dreamz Magazine!!! I appreciate y’all for having this feature on me. I want to also give a shout out to DJ Looney & Team Dubb Worldwide. Be on the lookout for my new mixtape “The Layover” which will drop in May 2012. I want everyone to log on to WWW.ITZDUBB. COM and keep up with me for all updates, events and new music. Also Follow me on twitter @itzDubb and if you haven’t done so already subscribe to my official YouTube Channel at Youtube. com/ITZDubb. 100
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I also want to affect people who are hopeless by showing them that there’s still a way out.”
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Interview by Joha B
THE SOUND OF DA BURGH!
“
Pittsburgh... We got talent, just no outlets!”
Coming from Pittsburg, who was your role model? How did you get into hip hop? I started rappin at age 5. My influences were 3-6 Mafia, Project Pat, 2pac, JayZ, BigL, Soulja Slimm, BG, The Lox, Nas and Mobb Deep. The hip hop scene in the Burgh is relevant but not unified because of Pittsburgh GANGBANGS (Bloods Crips laws). Joe Beast from the Hill put us on when he was wit Dr Dre. But there’s definitely talent here. We got talent, just no outlets. Wiz put us on the Map Officially tho. «Do it all Ent» & «Bout My Business Recording»... Seem like being independant is the key to shine today in the music industry? What is your opinion ? I actually had a deal in 06 07 wit The Famous Firm. My label mates where Nicky Minaj, Neeko Esso & a few others I decided to leave because I felt I was being held back in my career. That’s when I started my label and promo company. Independent is the way to go until the Perfect situation arises, then well, see my deal gotta be right because I know the talent I got and what I bring to the table. Who is your team? My team is Myself, my Brother who’s currently upstate, my cousin Rico who’s upstate also and my brother CannonBall Chris is the only other artist besides myself on Bout My Business Recordings. BMB is Family and of course I’m DBI Affiliated. I also got my own team of producers Lil Awree from Texas, who is signed to Project Pats label, DBI Tef, J Marsh and Juggernaut from Pittsburgh. You have made so many openning performances for famous artists? What is your best memory ? Best experience? I loved performing wit Project Pat and openin up for him last year. I will never forget paying to Bring Lil Bossie to da Burgh and opened up for him. That’s sentimental to me because I been bumpin Webbie & Boosie before they ever even blew up. Free Lil Boosie! I did my thing open for Oj Da Juiceman and I was the first nigga to bring him to Pittsburgh! Styles P because he’s one of my favorite rappers. And last, Tip that was fun as hell just wish he ain’t show up so late! How did you hook up with artists like Project Pat? I linked wit Project Pat because I booked him for a show. He delivered like a real nigga. The next day we did two songs for one of my mixtapes “Stacks & Seafood PT3 The Dessert”.
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After that, we kept in contact & did a few more songs when he came back to Da Burgh so at this point, we already got half a mixtape so we might as well do a whole project and he was with it. We went in for two days hard all day and did “Gettin Paper Dodgin Cases” hosted by Trapaholics droppin this year. You’ve been doing different mixtapes, do you feel thats the best way to market your music? Yeah, currently I got 16 mixtapes under my belt. I dropped 3 ones in 2011. The Stacks&Seafood series and 1 last year MYGRINDMYDEDICATION. I feel you are only relevant if you wanna be and my work ethic is crazy. I do all this by myself! Imagine if I was in a position to just sit back and make music everyday and nobody fukkin wit me! BMB is the movement that’s movin! CannonBall Chris, my artist, makes nothin but hits same wit me! Do you work with artists beyond the frontiers? Yea I’m willin to work with all kinds of artist. I’m not a hater and love to broaden my horizons and I fuck wit Tyler the Creator. I listen to all different types of music not just rap or hip hop. What are your different upcoming projects this year? My upcoming projects this year is “Gettin Paper Dodgin Cases” wit Project Pat Hosted by Trapaholics. “I Got Issues” is my solo project imma drop this winter... not sure what DJ i’mma get to mix it. I’m thinkin Dj Scream. and CannonBall Chris has “Everybody Hates Chris” comin out this year. Is Hip-Hop Dead? No hip hop is not dead. It just evolved to the younger generation. i am 24 and, as long as I’m here, Hip Hop ain’t dead just because it might not be what the critics are used to. It’s never dead! People need music. There are down south artists who are lyrical so nah it’s Neva dead or gone die! It’s watered down if anything wit all this pop soundin so called Rap. We got that real music over here!
My twitters @thecannonbmb Mixtapes available on datpiff.com
“My work ethic is crazy. I do all this by myself!”
Booking info: illadelp2012@gmail.com
www.reverbnation.com/phillydakid www.twitter.com/illadelp2012
What does the name XS mean to you ? XS is actually the word ‘Excess’ but with the letters X and S, and to me it means putting that extra effort, going that extra mile to reach your goals and live your dreams. So many people just dont do that anymore, but I do, and I will always show that through my music and my life as I get better and learn new things along the way. As a specialist of communication, What is your vision, today, of the music industry ? I like today’s music, but the way I see it, its all about having fun nowadays. While I enjoy listening to fun music, I also like to listen to deep, conscious music that makes you think, which today’s music is unfortunately lacking, at least the mainstream music. There are some good meaningful songs out there today that teach you about life, but they’re hard to find. I would love to hear more mainstream music with a message in it that would appeal to a broad audience.
XS
“America has taught me to pursue my dream and never give up”
How did your numerous travels impact on your music ? What did you learn from all these moves? Every country has their own unique musical culture, and personally I love it. It broadens your taste in music and gives you a taste of what that specific country is all about, what they like to talk about and how they deal with everyday life. I’ve learned a lot Some of my favorite movies are the four movies involved in the from my travel experience. I pick out the best qualities about a Matrix! As far as television goes, as long as I can be enterculture and apply it to myself, for example America has taught me tained by it, I’ll watch it. I will admit I still watch cartoons and to pursue my dream and never give up, Egypt has taught me to be always will, and I love Anime ! Speaking of which, I like reading tough and stand on my own two feet. Those are just some of the Mangas, which are Japanese comics that a lot of Anime sprout qualities that I learned and I am still learning more throughout my from. I love to read anything that sparks my imagination. I also travels. like if it teaches me something new or teaches more about something I already know. I have a few heroes and heroine in ‘My Redemption’ ...Your new project...How does this title my life. Some being everyone that makes / made a way for reflect your life today ? blacks in the economy and society. My top heroines are my My Redemption is my most personal song yet, because it talks mother and my grandmother, I don’t know where I’d be or how about my own struggle living in two different worlds. As a MiddleI’d be if it weren’t for them! Eastern, I have my own cultural and religious beliefs that I follow, and being in America, I feel like my beliefs are being tested, What makes you got next as a top artist? and while I enjoy the American lifestyle a lot, I tend to question I think what makes me next, is that I’m not confined into one myself as to whether Im getting the best or worst of both worlds, catergory, of talent, nor in anything I do. I mentioned earlier, and if i am getting the worst of both, am I redeeming myself as a I’m a poet, singer, song writer, actor, and musician, and within person. It also discusses my Father’s recent passing and how my all of those, I don’t stay in a single genre. I have the abilities life has changed for my family and I ever since he passed away. Im to be in front on the scenes, and/or behind them. While trying experiencing new things everyday and I wish he was still around as my best to not diss anyone….I also try and make sure everyI still seek his guidance on my life journey. thing I put out is good, a lot of things out nowadays aren’t good anymore. The amount of time I have put in and that I am What is your best musical experience so far? putting in, and things I’m learning, will help also. I think what I actually had two great experiences that I will always cherish. My will help or hinder me though, is the fact that I will always be Megamix performance back in college and my first album release. me, and try not to comform to a me that a manager, record My Megamix performace was a unique and original performace I label, executive, or anyone else would want me to be. did when I asked my DJ to play several instrumentals from popular songs, regardless of tempo, and I had to switch my singing as he What is your upcoming project ? kept switching the beats on me, sorta like how a club DJ switches Have a few happening all at once, a Spoken Word/Poetry alfrom song to song, but with instrumentals. I did it so well that I bum to get the minds working. I have a singing album, get back received a standing ovation and it made me feel like i can accomto my roots started out singing first when I was just a kid. An plish anything if I put my mind to it. The second was the release instrumental album, me just playing music, can’t call it a jazz of my debut album ‘The New Born’. It was a very challenging album or anything because it’ll be multi genres. Being featured experience as I have never worked on a full length album before, on other’s projects also right now. I’m also trying, want to and I’ve learned so much from it and was very proud of the end get and put something together with Triza, Sikpenz, and One product, and the lessons I learned from it will definitely be heard Chance somewhere soon, those last three will be monumental on my second album. I’m confident that you will notice improveto me. ments, both vocally and lyrically. www.facebook.com/officialXSfanpage
Corte How did you start rapping? I started rapping when I was six years old. I was real into poetry when I was young which set the start for me rapping. At the age of twelve, I was really into reading and writing. Music was always a passion of mine so I would listen to music freestyle to myself up and down the streets of Trenton, and listening to all the older kids rap made me work up the courage to freestyle in front of others. Soon as I knew it, I was doing the same thing and trying to work up a name for myself. Rappers such as Biggie Smalls, Krs one, Nas and RUN DMC gave me the motivation to continue my dream of a rap career. What gives you your inspiration in your songs? The situation that i’m in now. The situation that I have always been in pretty much. I always had dreams of being the best but who doesn’t? The people I am around, dreams, everyday life, the struggle, things that I see happening to other people and the things that I go through. Im dedicated in everything I do and always put 100% into everything. How do you pick the tracks you sing on and what’s your process in making a song? I can’t say that I necessarily pick my tracks. It’s more of a gut feeling, I usually play it by ear. Honestly, if you can’t feel what is your working on, you couldn’t possibly expect your fans to understand what you mean. I try to talk about the positions I’m in as well as the people that I see around me. Reaching out to people through my music is what I try to do. My process in making a song is sitting down and taking the time to figure out how I want to go about it, the beat is where I can draw an idea from and I work off that.
Whether it’s a written or freestyle determines the process I go through. If I feel like something is worthy to do for an album, I’ll sit down for days to come up with something that comes from the heart, my life and my views on things. Freestyles are more of an open minded type thing for me and I can talk about anything that comes to mind or to the topic we talk about. What are your upcoming projects? I been working on many things, it’s hard to figure out where to start. Currently I am working on my second mix tape “Sourlife 2” that’s going to close the first Sourlife mixtape. I have a few shows coming up, one at Penn State and one out in Indiana on May 19th. I also been working on a few singles that I’m hoping to put out as soon as I can, and also coming out with a few EP’s along the way The Projects we come up with are endless were always trying to open ourselves to new things. There are a million artists trying to get in the game, what makes you stand out from the masses? I’m me, plain and simple and there is no other person the same as me. I try to do my own thing to stand out from the rest. There are plenty of people that have succeeded off being themselves and that’s what separates the masses from the ones who have the potential. The people out here putting hard work day in and day out are the ones that get seen at the end of the day. Being highly motivated and putting work in is what I believe separates me from others. I try to work with what I got. I’m real, I feel that’s how you have to be to stand out from the rest.
www.twitter.com/corte_rumph 21 21
Campo
How do you feel about the current state of Hip Hop from TEXAS? The state of hip hop in Texas is definetly not what it used to be. Everyone used to be on that mixtape hustle, from Dj Screw And The Screwtapes, Then Watts And Swishahouse mixtapes, Paul Wall And Chamillionaire with The Color Changin’ Click tapes, but now just like everywhere else the game has gone viral, and it’s a younger generation of artist steppin’ up in TX. Artist like myself, Trai’d, Yung Nation, the younger cat’s are runnin’ the game, and lettin’ the world know that the TX movement didn’t stop! How did you create PLATINUM STAR RECORDS? Platinum Star Records AKA PSR Was Founded in 2003 by myself and DJ Baby Kappa while back in high school. We started out just like everyone else in TX, hustling our mixtapes all over campus, selling mixtapes at parties, doing shows, grinding and never stopped C-Rich (R.I.P) helped me Elevate PSR to an even higher level that set the foundation for what Platinum Star Records is evolving into today. What’s the concept behind the new music video “LIKE I NEVER HAD”? The Concept of The video was just to show myself and Strange Music Recording Artist Krizz Kaliko working out everything for the single in the studio, and let the people see behind the scenes, because these days when people do a collaboration, especially with a major artist that’s doing over 250 shows a year, they’ll record there verse and email it to the other artist, but Krizz and I were in Kansas City, Missouri and let people see we were collaborating together the old fashion way. How did the public welcome that? I got major love as the outcome of the “Like I Never Had It” Video, The Tech N9ne, and whole strange music fan base was very receptive and welcoming. The fans were supportive and helped with an increase of online mp3 sells, We got 15,000 hits very quickly on Worldstarhiphop.com. People were into it so much that while I open on the TX dates of The “Hostile Takeover Tour” with Tech N9ne, Machine Gun Kelly and Krizz Kaliko, we’ll be shooting the video for my new single featuring Krizz Kaliko entiteled “Outta Time” and giving viewers a look of what it’s like back stage on tour with Tech N9ne, and MGK. What are you cooking for all the listenners this 2012 year? Alot! I’m workin a lot! Collaborations with Krizz Kaliko, Trai’d, Chalie Boy, ESG, K-Rino, Yung Nation, also some major ones that I cant quite speak on yet, but by time this issue is out, im sure that it will be public knowledge. People will be getting a lot of music videos, March 14th “My Swisha Is Burnin’” was released, we shot it in LA at a Marijuana Dispensary. Definitely one for the smokers! “Outta Time” Feat. Krizz Kaliko will be dropping late April so be on the look out, you won’t be able to miss it. Also a lot of mixtapes will be dropping! Right now, we’re working on finalizing a distribution deal. You will see a lot of Campo’ This Year! I Promise That also catch my videos on MTV JAMS. LETS GET IT! “I Trust Me” The Mixtape Is Out now! Download it for free on www.itscampo.com Also Follow Me on Twitter @ItsCampo
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Jplat inumBeatz www.jplatinumbeatz.com jplatinumbeatz@gmail.com How did you get your artist name DEE MONEY & where do you come from? I got it from a girl years ago. She always said I had money, so the name just stuck with me. I was born in Manhattan, but raised in the Bronx which is the birth place of hip hop.
You got into music production very young. Who was your mentor ? How did you get into music? I got into music when I was 11 just, out in the blue. But I was inspired by the movie « Hustle And Flow » & Lex Luger! How can you define your World? I would define it solo, when i’m in my studio I just do what I got to do. What are your upcoming projects? My upcoming projects are a couple of local artists. Young Earnest, B.M.E. (Breathe Music Entertainment), Young Nuse from Dallas, LJ Da Realist, & Sunny D. What is your best musical experience so far? My best music expierience was going to a studio and showing these cats that i’m a one of a kind local producer.) How can you imagine JPLATINIUM 10 years from now in the music industry? I would say at the top of the list . I blew up in a year but im pretty sure that I will be big just got to give it to god.
What is your music background? When I was younger I would listen to my brother, sister and friends try to battle it out in the hallway of my building. My brother used to write music when he was younger unfortunately he didn’t still to. Me myself I love the music and the thrive I get from it. It’a like a drugless high which you never come down from. LOL How did the fans welcome the music video “DRUMMER SHUT UP”? My fans were really receptive to shut up because that song is based on reality, they can really relate to it. Everyone has days when they want to tell someone to shut the F up. Whether it’s at school,work, or home everyone has those days!
How did this passion for Music begin? My passion for music began when I first heard 2pac and Biggie,at that moment my life was changed. They were my inspiration to writing music,and pursue a career in music industry. Those two individuals had a great impact on the Hip Hop world, which made me desire the same dream. What your favorite topics when you create lyrics? My favorite topic to talk about when writing lyrics is just my personal life experiences. I’ve been through heartbreak, love and happiness so I get inspiration from that. Also my family and friends deal with so much on a daily basis, that it makes creating lyrics effortless. Being true to myself with my music, and making relatable music that everyone can understand is what I enjoy writing about.
Dolla
Sign
Do you listen to other forms of music outside of Hip Hop? I listen to all genres of music. Rock, Pop, R&B whatever I’m feeling at the moment i’ll listen to. When you’re an artist, you have to step outside of your comfort zone to make universal music that’s relatable to everyone. Good music is good music, no matter what the genre is. Whats are your coming projects for 2012? Videos for my next couple of singles that should be out really soon. I also am working on two albums Love Heartbreak & Happiness,& Swagstar Fly For Glory 101. To keep up with all my upcoming projects follow me on Facebook (Dollar Sign), Twitter (www.twitter.com/darealdollasign).
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What is your vision as an independant artist ? All indie artists are using the internet as a means of spreading the word about their music. Once something goes viral, if it is a banger then there is no way to stop it. However, there is so much more to achieving success than having a strong internet presence. Performance on stage is equally as important. Allowing fans to connect with the artist on a more intimate level creates a more sound and solid bond between the artist and those who support. As an indie artist one of the main goals I have is to take the movement on the road and do a tour. A few local shows isn’t enough. In order to reach the masses you have to see the masses. What made you want to rap? The passion came at an early age. I was rapping since I was 10 years old. I recorded my first song when I was 11. I could remember listening to Ma$e and Diddy when I was coming up. Just imagining and thinking that « damn, maybe one day this could be me » . Initially when I was a child the hip hop game was a series of words on beats that you had to memorize and that you had to know. When I grew older in my early teens, the music spoke to me as more of a means of giving people something they can feel. Telling people that no matter what you are going through in life, there is someone out there who has gone through it and someone else who is about to. Giving people something they can feel is giving people something real and a solid dose of that reality. Tell us a little about your new release «C&D » ? What’s the concept? It is the very first mixtape that I have put together. A whole lot went into this project. I wanted to give people something more than just a few lines and a catchy beat. The vision for this mixtape was far greater than just a few songs. It was a movement that I had in mind. The concept comes from the heavy presence and influence of the items on the cover of the mixtape in the urban community. While the association with those items would be one that you would associate with a « rockstar lifestyle », C&D sheds light on the fact that these items are used and embraced on a regular basis in the urban community by regular everyday people. Whether you are dealing with money issues, a court case, love, or racism, C&D is still there. Fabrications versus realness is what separates C&D from comparable freshman mixtapes.
A-Roc www.twitter.com/EffAROC
What should we keep our eyes and ears open for from you in this upcoming year? There are a lot of moves that I have in the works right now. I just finished shooting the video for one of the songs on my mixtape entitled « Fist Raised ». It’s a very powerful song and that video has such potent meaning that it would be the perfect way to introduce people to the movement if they haven’t become familiar as of yet. I have a HOT 97 showcase approaching soon and other performances in the works. Also, my next mixtape is set to be released for October 2012. Definitely be on the look out for that. Let’s the fans know where they can hear your music & what are your upcoming projects? Definitely check out radfiends.com for the exclusive link to C&D the mixtape. EffAROCTV is now on youtube and will be launched once the video for « Fist Raised » is released.
Sir
What is the hottest verse you ever said? I got so many hot verses I don’t know which 1 I can say the hottest. But now I would have to say its 1 off of my first solo mixtapes called HoodRich Prt1. I was really going in on every song fa real on that whole mixtape! 1 of the hottest videos to me is Im’ma Star video. That 1 was 1 that we really went in on. IM MA STAR VIDEO www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHQbLiBXb1k
www.twitter.com/blqdiamondent
How can you define your music background? Your World? I would have to say that I’m more of a street rapper bcuz all I do is keep it street at all times. That’s all I know is the street life bcuz that’s where I was raised . As far as my world my lifestyle crazy right now. Its hectic living day to day in Hunter’s Point. You gotta be real street smart and a real survivor to make it out here. Who is SIR as a person? Let us fans know what it is you’re trying to accomplish? Me as a person I define myself as a the last of a dying breed. 1 of the last real niggaz still out here breathing keeping it gutta all the way around the board. How Is the ALL THE WAY experience so far? The experience for All The Way is like me taking my rap game to another level bcuz everybody that know me they use to hearing me rapping about some hood shit. So basically that let everybody know that Im a universal artist and I can rap about more then just the streets. How did the public welcome that hit? The public really felt that hit. But to me I feel like it would have reached a higher level if it was more of a promotion team behind us or more people behind us pushing our Record Label.
With being from the south, who were your musical influences growing up? Buddy Wood: I’m influenced by music from every coast. I mean 2pac was from New York and moved to California & that’s one of my greatest influences. He kept it trill from top to bottom speaking on situations that I was seeing or knew that was really going on. UGK of course, Pastor troy, ESG, Fat Pat, Slim Thug, Outkast, Goodie Mob, Master P because of his hustle. He was a grinder! I can respect that. It’s so many, they showed me keeping it solid and believe in yourself! Why do you got next? Buddy Wood: I’m trying to build this Blockstyle Recs Empire to unimaginable heights so my people, my fam, my dawgs can live comfortable and not worry about the near future. I know the material shit won’t last forever but the legacy of what me and my team built will live on. That’s my whole focus with the rap game. Not to be the world’s famous M.C but let my listeners and fans know I gave my best!
Buddy Woods & Rip
What are your upcoming projects? I have few projects I’m working on right now I have two mixtapes that’s about to drop right now. 1 called City Situation thats actually done coming late April or early May Featuring YMCMB and many more Artists from N.O to Miami so y’all look out for that project cuz its fire . And the other 1 is called Son Of A Hustla coming late November or early December . Younger, how did your move to Killeen aka “KILL CITY” change your life? Buddy Wood: When I first moved here [Killeen] Long Branch area back in 94’, like two or three years prior, some loony drove his pick-up truck into a restaurant called “Luby’s” and killed like 23 people & wounding 20 more so the atmosphere was still kind of gloomy from that. Racial tension was high, Gangs EVERYWHERE. It was almost impossible to ignore that lifestyle. I’m not trying to glorify it but that was just reality of Killeen, Texas in the 90’s. It was survival of the fittest small town, big city problems. But i want to say it prepared me for the harsh realities of life knowing that everyday should be a blessing it’s still live out here.
What advice would you give to upcoming artists in the music industry? Buddy Wood: I say just keep in mind nobody is going to push you as hard as yourself. The material wishes is cool and all but if you have faith and the passion in your craft that’s going to come. It’s not going to come over night and everybody is not going to feel your music learn to take the good with the bad. R.i.P: First I will say never give up and don’t let others stop you from perusing your dreams. Also just promote yourself, and don’t be afraid to network with other artist that is trying to do the same thing you’re doing. Don’t get caught up in the BS that surrounds the industry and always keep it real with your fans and yourself.
www.youtube.com/Blockstylezfinest / www.reverbnation.com/label/blockstylerecs
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Wearing different caps, mc, songwriter & actor, what is your definition of an “artist”? Any form of expression especially when its perceived to be rebellious. Why do you got next? Since the music videos have been my biggest vehicle of exposure and promotion, I just keep doing more and more videos. Next one is “my life” of course being shot by dreamboy vision. I also have a project with the baritone brothers whos intials BB. I have a recurring role album “out on itunes” right now, working with an artist/producer called “NoFace” he produces “My life” and featured on light up! How do you pick the tracks you rap on and whats the process in making a song? Hook is first whether it jumps right off the track or I make a melody. Whateva the overall vibe calls for should be heard before anything when you structure a “song”. A freestyle track I usually just pick the hardest beat and rock. No direction jus hard spit! Who is Roman Pills as a person? Let us fans know what it is you’re trying to accomplish? (Laughing) I’m a recluse and im a student of my culture so I spend a lot of time alone writing as much as I think. Art respects art, so I study various music, film, literature, and traditional art. I rival my pen to Salvador dali artwork. Im here to accomplish what im suppose to!
Roman Pills 26
Tell us more about the LIGHT UP video? And how did your fans welcome it? Well, the video was almost a bust. We had a blacklight scene that didn’t pan out, so we were left with only four hours of footage from the white wall location. ML the director @ dreamboy vision made it by far the best video yet. The response to the video was crazy! Vlad tv, coast 2 coast mixtape, this is 50 and rapstar promo hit me up on youtube to submit to their sites which was bugged out lol!! The older fans who posted it on their facebook pages was wild because they loved the song just as much as the smokers I made it for. Its crazy that my fans who are in my age group know exactly what the song is and then seeing on your uncles and aunts pages is crazier cuz the song is about smoking, but its so subliminal people catch themselves sayin ‘light up light up keep the windows cracked’ lol! What are your upcoming projects? My videos are my singles so im just releasing them like that so the wait is worth it. Im working on 2nd baritone bros album now as well as music with noface and working to get my part in dreamboy vision next movie, got get “freestyle love” dvd out now! www.twitter.com/romanpills
Fresh 2 Deat h Ent
www.youtube.com/f2dentgroup Can you tell us more about your label «FRESH 2 DEATH ENT»? Why this name and who are the different members? F2D came about when my lil cousin Drew Collins was telling me about a guy named Daquan a.k.a GBaby. He knew that he could sing real good. Then i was like “get him on the phone i wanna hear this dude”. From then on, we stayed connected an eventually started a rap group. We messed around for about a year then things got serious when people started listening. I told GBaby that ima bout to get a indy lab together and of course, he was down lol.. A few people came and gone but we still at it. The current artist are myself, Slimm, Gbaby, Lil Ape and Trouble. Im currently working with another group outta Baton Rouge called Elite Mifia.They just bringing a whole different stlye to the label.
and mix in one day. Back where it all started it took damn near one day to do a song. If that aint improvement then i don’t know what is.
The independant music labels have new outlets now with the technologies? What do you think of the music industry today ? The industry today has come a long way from when the Beatles was recording on tapes to the technology we have today. Man its nothing to go into the studio and lay down 6 songs
What are your upcoming projects? Let’s share that with us. We currently all working real hard on solo cds that should be done soon. We just released a club track called PLUM STUPID with Trouble Lil Ape and Gbaby. We pushing real hard in Baton Rouge and surrounding areas. We about to shoot the video for it real soon and hopefully lots more after that.
What is your vision of Hip Hop’s future? To me, i only see Hip Hop getting stronger and stronger everyday. I turn the tv on and check out BET and im steady seeing new artist.. Im just setting there thinking where this dude come from. For all the readers, let us know what is the message behing F2D’s music? The message changes so from person to person on the label be cause most of us have many different styles to bring. For a few Artists it’s more about the real life and the others is party party!!
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www.creamcommunication.ca Publicité, Infographie, Clothing C.R.E.A.M. Promotion, Site Web, T-shirt Impression, & modeles. Site Web, Infographie, Impression de T-Shirt - Impres, Promotion, Création de Logo, Désing, Cd Covers, Cd Print, Cartes D’afaire & Bcp Plus !! creamcommunication@hotmail.com
http://www.datpiff.com/Sly-Dominoes-mixtape.285771.html
All original mixtape available now, instant download on cmgbossesonline.com Also available on iTunes and Amazon.com Follow the movement @bigsleepdmv / @catchmygameent / @catchmygametv
Available now for Instant Download On www.cmgbossesonline.com Also available on iTunes and Amazon.com
“whatever you wan
FRENCHIE «HONESTY, INTEGRITY, and HARD WORK» are the words that can define the best FRENCHIE as an artist? That’s all I know. How to work. To live in my world you must know how to grind. I live to work. That’s what my life is all about. Work. Explain us what is the concept behind the name « FRENCHIE»? Do you have some french roots? Or Carribean? I’m west Indies, my father is from Guyana...but that was my father’s name Frenchy.. for real. They used to call me lil French. After my father passed away. I felt like it was up to me to carry the torch. The Queens & ATL got a very important place in your heart? Do you consider yourself as a southern artist or NY one? What were your music influences? I consider myself the best of both worlds. My record company is in Atlanta so, of course, i got a bigger fanbase down south than in NY, but I can’t forget where I am from- NY is where I am from! Growing up in the ghetto, what made you get into music instead of staying in the streets? Just being able to watch artist at a young age.. krisss LL Kool J the lost boys..Being from NY had a major influence on me when it comes to music… it was everywhere… my uncle is the beastie boys DJ hurricane… my cousin was the def_________. my aunt is a hell of a manager Debra Enmi What is your vision of the music industry today ? Is it easier to shine for an indie artist? Everyone could be a knuckle head. It’s hard for anyone to keep straight and do the opposite… and I’ve seen a lot of funerals. A lot of bad things! You could be from a neighborhood that is ghetto but you don’t have to be! It all depends on who u are. How did you hook up with Brick Squad Monopoly? And how that boost your career ? With so much promotion, you could really boost your
self… The internet is the biggest way of promotion rightnow. You could get a million views on something peo ple like now than someone just blowing you out, you could make a name for yourself before you even throw anything out. U can make a history for urself before the majors see u… What is the best musical collaboration you have ever made so far? The fact that it just made me go back and forth to Atlanta... I made B Squad. We were the Slicy Boys before we were brick squad... For the fans who followed up and know about Gucci, it was 5 major players: it was me Frenchie, Vodika, Luda Kid, OJ the JuiceMan and Gucci mane. And God rest their soul Slim Dunkin and my boy Yung Joey…That makes the Squad. Now we got the west coast riders, Papa Smurf, Ice Burgandy, Joe Moses. Got alotta of them out there! This is so impressive how you have made the buzz with so many music videos & mixtapes on the net... With that success, what are you planning now for this 2012 year? I like working with Roscoe dash, yung shot, soulja boy, Gucci... I like working with them all.. Travis Porter.. I worked with all of them so working with them is like working with family, or someone u feel comfortable with…just being able to have fun making a record, that’s all its about! After all those years in the game, what are your motivation? What motivates me is to know that u may be feeling bad about yourself on day but that you could come out outside and have someone smile at you just cause you are an influence to him, that’s what counts for me. Is there any particular message you want to pass to our readers? To all those people who really wanna be successful.. You
Twitter @Frenchie1017
nt, you can have it...”
“
Lavont
Daniels
I wanna bring real mu sic back.”
For people who dont know you, where do you come from? I come from Springfield Mass, Born and raised. What were your musical influences where you grew up? My influences were my family. My brother and sister. Do you listen to other forms of music outside of Hip Hop & rnb? Yes I do. I listen to pop and some alternative . Please describe LAVONT DANIEL’s sound? Great word usage, a new tone, and rejuvenation. When you write your lyrics, what is your main source of inspiration? Opening up my horizons and it has to sound good to me. What sites or services do you use to connect with fans? Which social networking sites do you feel are most productive? Its not the networks that work. It’s the grind that gets you where u need to be.
Whats your project for that coming 2012 summer? Lots of songs and a new cd, also tryna write a song for someone in the business. As an artist, what are your ambitions? My ambitions are to make my music known to everyone and stay motivated. And bring real music back. What do your entourage think about what you are trying to accomplish through your career? They support me in all my beliefs and talents. And they also wish the best for me. Can you quote your best verse you have ever said? I have so many verses that I love when I write them. But one of my favorite quotes are from my song Lonely roads. It goes “I use to think you were one of god’s last creation, now your demons coming out I think u half of satan. All your late night drinking and ya bad behaving, has given you acerations from past realations.
www.twitter.com/lavontdaniels www.reverbnation.com/lavontteamloud
Coraione Gordon The ATL Dreamz Candy! At what point in your life did you know that you wanted to be a model? As a little girl, I’ve always wanted to be a model, but I would say my freshman year in high school.
As a model, what are your dreamz? My dreams aren’t only to be in magazine’s but I wanna walk runways. I wanna be the girl they talk about in papers and magazine’s from fashion week.
Tell us how you are unique compared to other models. what do you bring to the modeling industry? I’m versatile. I have a killer body without a boob job nor butt shoots.
What do you do in your spare time when you are not modeling? Spending time with my family & friends and doing hair. I’m also an hairstylist.
For you, what characteristics are the most important to succeed in this industry? Flawless skin, good body structure, good personality! Who would you say is the personn that did really inspire you? My mother. She has always taught me to be my own person and forget what other people think.
So far, any highlights in your career? I’m an Coors Light Promotion Model, Playboy Golf Girl. I haven’t reached my peak yet. What’s the message you got for Mr Dreamz readers? Look out for me! This wont be the last... you’ll hear from me. Xoxo Coraione www.modelmayhem.com/1319876
www.solomonreese.com
Lavont Daniels
@lavontdaniels