On tha Real Magazine - Yelawolf/Chalie Boy Dual Cover by Karl Orts

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Drumma Boy: Marching To The Beat Of His Own Drum Words by Shalom Little Christopher Gholson, better known as Drumma Boy, has done a lot to get where he is currently at. The 2010 BET Hip-Hop Producer Of The Year Nominee (whose production credits include hits such as "Lose My Mind", "Put On", "Money To Blow", and "No Hands") took some time out to speak with me and shed light on his background, current projects, and overall perspective of the music industry. OTR Mag: Was there anyone in the Memphis music scene who inspired you coming up? Drumma Boy: The Memphis music scene definitely. There were a lot of old school cats coming up. My older brother Insane Wayne who was producing for Three 6 Mafia and Carlos Brody who did "The Average Chick" for India Arie. OTR Magice P, Jazze Pha, they was all around the same age. I was the little kid coming up seeing a lot of elements of what they was doing and mixing it into my own. OTR Mag: Your mom is an opera singer & your pops is a professional clarinetist & music professor at the University of Memphis. How do they feel about your success? Drumma Boy: They're extremely proud and look forward to me doing bigger and better things definitely with my versatility with different genres of music. It's a blessing to show them that I was listening to them the whole time. Their whole thing was (for me) to pay attention and their kids to stay focused and not get distracted. "Keep the elements of the roots in you no matter how big you get." You still gotta stay grounded in doing what I do so it's a blessing. OTR Mag: Is part of the reason you so go hard with the music is to add on to your family legacy? Drumma Boy: It's a lot to live up to definitely and we definitely gotta stay focused. And this something that I love to do anyway so it's hard to take me away from this environment since I grew up and was birthed into it. OTR Mag: What are at least three components in your grind process that you think helped you get to where you are right now? Drumma Boy: I would have to say one of the components is definitely consistency and never giving up. I would like to be a shining light for those who wanna give up who didn't see a way out and could use me as an example like, "He made it out the city, he made it out the hood and doing something he love to do." Just being an exception and using myself as my own example to do bigger and better things. One of the second things is patience. Knowing what opportunity is good for you and what opportunity is not and understanding where you're set to be. A lot of people don't understand their value or even know their worth so it's hard to present yourself or answer to someone when you don't even know what you want. So the good thing is just the direction. Without direction you don't know where you're going definitely. I always write down goals and missions to attack within myself and that keeps me going and on the right track you know what I'm saying? OTR Mag: What has been your favorite non-hip hop collaboration? Why? Drumma Boy: My favorite right now is definitely this one I did with Mary J. Blige. It's gonna be crazy. JohntĂĄ (Austin) wrote it. It'll probably be on her upcoming album. You know it's fun. You know so many people classify me as a Southern producer and whatnot and it's cool you know. I'm from the South. I represent Memphis, TN and all of that you know but Southern music ain't the only thing I can produce. It's just funny how people just throw you in different categories. It's just gonna be fun to show people how diverse my brain is and where I come from. A lot of people don't know that my pops is in the orchestra or that my mom is in the opera. Like I started off composing and arranging and playing by ear and whatnot. I just was in the hood coming up in Memphis at the same time so I think it's just easy to pass me off. I think making beats honestly is only like 30-40% of my mind. It's just fun, it's easy. So I done became the number one producer using only like 20-30% of my energy. it's just gonna be fun giving the world my 100% when I am working on rock or working on R&B, working on jazz. Just working with so many different artists of different culture nahmean? It's gonna be fun. A lot of years to come. A lot of legacy time to fulfill. OTR Mag: What do you think about the current state of the music industry? Drumma Boy: I think it's perfect right now. It's just being proven that good music sells records and that's been the rule since day one. It's wide open for people to prove themselves and to start new trends and genres and to try new things that are why I'm having so much fun right now. I feel like that it's up to anyone who calls themselves a producer to push themselves in this game. It's up to you to change the game. Kobe is a game changer. LeBron is a game changer. That's why they play the game. They love what they do and in any given moment can make the game change. And that's what we are. That's who we represent. (For people) to look up to us and say, "Hey I need a hit. Hey put me in the right direction and we coming to you to give us therapy. Keep our minds straight." There are so many other things that a real, great producer does and that's just one title. It's hard to (just) say "Drumma Boy's a producer". Because it's like you come into my studio session you might get 20 or 30 minutes of motivational speaking just to put you in the mindset to make the record you got to make. You like "Wow, man the conversation I had with Drumma Boy, that guy man he really motivated me. Helped me change the way I think. Like man I gotta do something like this I can't play around." And the first song we do is "Bam!!!â&#x20AC;?. "No Hands" me and Waka put that off like one to two years. "Imma wait 'til I work with you Drumma. I ain't in no rush bruh." I use Waka as an example but you can do anything. I might have to set the tone therapeutically or mentally before you even cut the record. You gotta record (and) mix the record. You gotta play around with different things. Arrangements and whatnot nahmean? So it's hard to just say, "He a producer, or he a super producer, or he Grammy-nominated, or he multi-platinum". None of the titles sum it all up. interview continues on page 27

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DJ Booth Etiquette

101

Top 10 Things You DON’T Do In the DJ Booth Name - Dj Quest Hittmenn DJs - Ciroc DJ Location - Atlanta, GA Twitter - @Djquestdachamp

10. Don’t try to bring your entire entourage into the booth. 9. Don’t shout them out to let people know they’re in the building. 8. Don’t touch anything in the booth. 7. Don’t stand next to me so people can see you. 6. Don’t ask me to listen to your music and give you feedback right there in the booth. 5. Don’t ask if you can do a freestyle on the mic. 4. Don’t ask for advice on what you should do with your career while I’m spinning. 3. Don’t tell me the people in the crowd want me to play your record. 2. Don’t offer me money to play your record. 1. Don’t ask me to play your record during my power set and say “my record is hot! It’ll sound good behind that!”

Name - Dj Poncho Location - Killeen, TX Twitter - @DjPoncho

10. Please don’t bring a blank CD without info. It will get left behind. 9. Don’t tip me $5 or $10 to play your music. 8. Please don’t touch me like you’re my girl. 7. Show respect and I will give you respect. I don’t care who ya people are. 6. I repeat, please give me space and don’t tell me your life story. 5. Don’t send your girl with a CD asking me to play your music, because I might take her. (LOL) 4. Don’t buy me a drink without asking me what I drink. 3. Please don’t come in the booth smoking and blowing smoke. 2. Please don’t bring 50 people with you to the DJ booth to introduce yourself. 1. Don’t ask me to stop rocking the crowd and play your music that nobody ever heard.

Name - Dj SilverKnight Location - Los Angeles, CA Twitter - @djsilverknight_

10. Don't pressure the dj. 9. Don't expect the dj to play your song. He owes you nothing. 8. Don't ask a million times to get your record played. 7. Don't name other djs who are already playing your record. A real dj

doesn't care about what other djs are doing. 6. If the dj says he can't or won't play your song, just say thanks and leave your info. 5. Don't threaten the dj. It’s a long way to the front door. 4. Don't take it personally. It’s not about you; it’s about the crowd. 3. Don't focus on mainstream clubs. Get the streets first. 2. Don’t walk into the dj booth to introduce yourself. Let me do my job. 1. Don't keep sending people that's with your party to ask to play your song. We saw you walk in together.

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People Behind the Scenes Tamiko Hope

Job Title: Publicist/Marketer/Writer Industry: Entertainment Location: Atl, GA

Job Description: Create exposure and branding opportunities for clients. Length of time at job: 10 yrs.

How did you get into this position? Majored in Mass Communications w/an emphasis in PR & interned at LaFace Records, which led to working with Goodie Mob. Explain the hardest aspect of your job? A lot of follow-up, phone calls and emails, as well as, making sure artists/managers understand results can sometimes take a while, but it's well worth the wait. What do you love the most? The writing aspect and the challenge of creating unique opportunities for clients. What is your greatest accomplishment? I have a lot because they all mean something, but probably walking Shawty Lo down the red carpet at the 2009 Grammy's, it was an amazing experience for all of us. Where do you plan to go in your career from here? I plan on doing more brand marketing, as well as, finishing writing projects, perhaps moving into film. A personal quote/tool: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” and I love this Jim Rohn quote- "For things to change for you, you've got to change." How can they find you (social network, email, phone number): Twitter - @atlprprincess, email - hope4miko@aol.com Job Title: There is no title to what I do... I do too much lol! Company Name: Kind of a Big Deal/Grand Hustle Industry: Music industry Location: Atl, GA Job Description: I do it all...

Trayce Big Deal

Length of time at job: I’ve been with Grand Hustle since ‘06/KBD has been in business since ‘05 How did you get into this position? This position found me... Being around & helping Clay Evans, tips manager, of Grand Hustle just kind of got me in the know about the music industry & helping manage some artists. Explain the hardest aspect of your job? There really is no hard part to my job... I love what I do and I was told if you love what you do you will never work a day in your life! So right now at the moment I am living a dream & loving every minute of it! What do you love the most? I love putting a smile on faces... I love helping the artists... When someone can come to me & say “thank you for all your hard work it really helped me... It made a difference” that does something to me! What is your greatest accomplishment? Actually everything is an accomplishment because I didn’t finish high school & I’m in the business I wanna be in doing what I wanna do.. I can say I never in a million years thought I would be here, so I’m just thankful & blessed! Where do you plan to go in your career from here? Just plan on climbing this ladder of success... Cant really say where it’s gonna take me but I know I will be amongst great people!!!!! A personal quote/tool: I have 2 of them “I’m kind of a big deal” & they say big things come in small packages... Here I Am!! How can they find you (social network ,email , phone number) Twitter: @tracye_bigdeal, @kbdworld, @hustle_flow Email: tracye.grandhustle@gmail.com, tracyeisabigdeal@gmail.com Phone # : 404.786.0444

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Words by Karl Orts

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OTR Mag: How did you get started as a producer? Who or what inspired you? CP Hollywood: I got started producing professionally when I got tired of paying for studio time, but I had been writing music since I was 7 or so. I was definitely inspired (production-wise) by TImberland and Jazzie Pha. OTR Mag: What artists are you working with? CP Hollywood: All the usual Florida artists and everybody working on their albums. I try to keep a closed lip about who I am working with, just because things are so competitive. But I do want people to know that I have a 13 yr old artist named Desiree that I am in the process of putting out (follow her @desiree2151). She is very talented and the world will be hearing alot from her real soon! OTR Mag: What artists/producers would you like to collaborate with in the future? CP Hollywood: I really wanna work with Jazzie Pha, Timberland and Polo (as far as producers go). I feel like they always have a unique sound. As far as artists, go I’d be happy working with Young Money, Fifty, Trey Songz, Loyd, Keisha Cole, TI, Ross etc. There are really so many artists I wanna work with. OTR Mag: What is your approach to working with artists? CP Hollywood: I try to feel them out as far as how they like to work and then put how I want to work with them into the equation. I always prefer to help them write, format etc. I always feel like you will get better records from a producer the more you let them be hands on. A big reason why so many independent artists work with me is because I do everything (record, write, sing, engineer etc.) and I am a very strong vocal producer. OTR Mag: Do you have any publishing deals or you self-published? CP Hollywood: I have had publishing deals come to me but I’d rather take a publishing deal when I know that I have had time to develop my catalogue and I get the right advance. Until then, my BMI checks are just fine. It also has to be a publishing company that actively wants to place me with the artists IN THE STUDIO. Otherwise I’m doing their job now. OTR Mag: What or who inspires you? CP Hollywood: I have always just had a part of my brain occupied by music. I hear it all day. Sometimes I hear a door squeak and it sounds like a note to me. When I get home that note turns into a beat. When I’m sad or happy I turn to music as my outlet for my excess energy. But my family definitely keeps me motivated to make money! OTR Mag: What are your goals? CP Hollywood: I definitely want to win a Grammy one day, if not a few. But as long as I have tried my absolute best and I am a “good person”. I am just fine with that. OTR Mag: What sets you apart from other producers? CP Hollywood: I think that my vocal producing does. I can’t say I’m a better beat maker or concept writer than someone else because that is all subjective. But I will say most artists and writers I work with tell me that I am unusually good with notes and harmonies! OTR Mag: What style of music do you focus on? CP Hollywood: RnB/HipHop/Pop fused together. OTR Mag: If you can change one thing about the industry what would it be? CP Hollywood: I would change the politics. It’s tough when the artist hears a banger and then for whatever political reason the label doesn’t end up paying for it. Or the record gets leaked on purpose and you end up with a record unpaid for and no opportunity to sell it to someone else. The politics is what keeps a few people making money and most people barely making money. OTR Mag: How can an artist get in contact with you? CP Hollywood: Hit me on twitter @cphollywood954. If u mention business I will almost always hit u back. Thank You.

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Carl T

Twitter - @BluSound Facebook - BluSound Productions

BluSound Productions presents

Design by BluDivine Design

www.BluSoundProductions.com

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Tell everybody your name and where you are from: Brittaney Denise from Atlanta, GA How long have you been modeling? Been modeling a little over 3 years So what are you doing with yourself besides modeling? (Working, school, etc.) I'm a full-time student at the Art Institute of Atlanta, and I’m working on opening a boutique as well. What would you say is your best feature and why? I would have to say my face, I think I'm gorgeous lol. What do guys say is your best feature? Of course my ass, they don't see anything else these days. In your opinion, what are the negatives and positives of modeling? Positives are, when done in the correct way, girls really have the chance to be successful. Negatives are a lot of the males in this industry are disgusting perverts, they forget about the business aspect of it just because they are dealing with pretty females. But also a lot of the girls are trying to use sex to move up, which honestly seems like those are the ones who are successful, it’s sad. (For the fellas) What would it take for a guy to win your heart? Just keep it completely 100, if you're balling that’s fine but coming up to me saying what you have doesn't phase me, not one bit. Any advice you want to give to people in your position or things you may have learned in the process of becoming model? Just be patient and work hard, you will get to what you're trying to accomplish; it just takes time. Don't give up, it’s coming. What is your booking # or website? You can contact me through my website www.BrittaneyDenise.com or Twitter: www.twitter.com/BrittaneyDenise

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CHALIE BOY MAKIN MY WAY

OTR MAG: How has your life changed after your single “I Look Good”? Chalie Boy: Aww man, the only thing that really changed was the hotels and the way I was treated. I also got to do a lot more shows like in Cali and Nevada; that’s really the only thing that changed. OTR MAG: Where did you shoot the “I’m Here” video? Chalie Boy: The “I’m Here” video we shot in the Dallas area. OTR MAG: After Big Moe passed away how did music changed for you? Chalie Boy: Music didn’t really change all that much. I mean he was one of the people that influenced me, but when he passed it was just kinda like ‘I got to keep on going and get better’. I mean, it was a sad time when it all happened, but I knew he would want me to continue to do my best; so here we are now. OTR MAG: What is the name of your next video that you are going to release? Chalie Boy: Umm not too sure which one we are going to release, but if I had to pick one, I’m pretty sure it would have to be “CHANGE”! OTR Mag: How did you meet DJ Bull? Chalie Boy: Umm man, in 2000 a mutual friend of ours (by the name of Donald Brown aka B-Nord) was doing work down in College Station and you know, there were people coming in and he introduced us. Ever since then we have been down together. OTR Mag: How has Battery/Jive Records changed the way you live? Chalie Boy: Aww man, it’s changed but not too much, you know. Just getting recognized more by people that wouldn’t have before, you know. It is a major stepping stone in my life and I’m glad to be stepping on it, but it is what it is, ya know...lol. OTR Mag: What made you want to lose all the weight man? Chalie Boy: I lost the weight for myself and of course for the record, man. Really, I just got tired of carrying around all that weight, so I decided to start eating right and exercising more, and now here we are and I must say, looking damn good too..haha. OTR Mag: What made you want to drop a multi R&B CD set? Chalie Boy: Man, you know I’m not the type of artist to just put out 1 radio hit or do what the public wants me to do. I know what I can and can’t do, so I decided to let my fans in on what else I can do. I decided to drop it and I just hope that the fans react in a good way to it and can feel how great the music is. OTR Mag: When did you know that you were gonna make it in the music industry? Chalie Boy: You never know if you will make it in the music industry. I just have to be confident that the work that I put out will put me in a place where I can continue to better myself. OTR Mag: Well I just want to thank you for doing what you do and giving me the opportunity to do this interview with you. I wish you the best of luck in the future. Chalie Boy: Na man, thank you for wanting to interview me and letting me speak my mind of the things you asked, and anytime man; and one more thang... Shout outs to all my fans and I hope to be coming to a city near you! PEACE I’M OUT!!

Words by Kodie “K-Perk” Perkins

“...now here we are and I must say, looking damn good too!”

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Tia Guice Tell everybody your name and where you are from: My name is Tia Guice and I was born in Germany, but raised in Fort Myers, Florida. How long have you been modeling? 1 year So what are you doing with yourself besides modeling? (Working, school, etc.) I attend Edison State College, pursue acting, host events, and just live life. What would you say is your best feature and why? I would say my best feature is my spontaneity, but physically I'd have to say my smile because it has the power to make everyone smile back. What do guys say is your best feature? Guys almost always compliment my lips, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re pretty voluptuous. In your opinion, what are the negatives and positives of modeling? In my opinion the negatives of modeling would have to be the fact that there are alot of phonies in the industry that ladies have to be careful for. The positives would be that it is motivating and fun because the jobs are always different, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lacking a strict routine. (For the fellas) What would it take for a guy to win your heart? It doesn't take much to win my heart, just a good sense of humor and a bit of honesty. Any advice you want to give to people in your position or things you may have learned in the process of becoming model? The advice i would give an aspiring model would be to know your values and stick by them, also to always stay positive. What is your Booking # or website? To book me please email imtmworldwide@gmail.com also make sure you subscribe to http://www.youtube.com/dreammakertv

Words by Karl Orts

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“I represent the paradox of small town America. The hip hop side, the small town country boy side, and all in between...”

Yelawolf

A Wolf In MC’s Clothing

Photo courtesy of Hannibal Matthews

Words by Shalom Little

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I had the opportunity to converse with Michael Atha, better known as Yelawolf, a hungry rapper who reps Gadsden, AL and has been setting his sights to kill the rap game ever since he released “Trunk Muzik” on New Years’ Day 2010. He’s been putting in work before the critically-acclaimed project dropped and the new signee to Eminem’s Shady imprint talks about the life experience and passion he puts in his music, the meaning of the Confederate Flag in current times, and why he will “never, ever” give up on telling people his story. OTR Mag: Well first of all, I just wanna say congratulations to you because I just found out you signed with Shady Records. Yelawolf: Appreciate it man. OTR Mag: I just want to know, where does this move place you, as far as with your planned career goals, signing with Eminem? Yelawolf: Man, you know Ghet-O-Vision Records (which is Kawan “KP” Prather, Courtney “Bear” Sills, Jeremy “J Dot” Jones, & Seneca “The Beast” Doss collectively) for the last few years we’ve just went stupid hard and did everything we can possibly do, you know? I met Em a while back. Me, Bear, and KP flew up to Detroit and met with Paul (Rosenberg) and Eminem. I honestly thought we went out there just for introductions and I had just signed to Interscope. So I was there as a fan, for one, just to meet him and (have) an opportunity to kick it with him. OTR Mag: Mmm-hmm… Yelawolf: I had no idea that it would turn into a situation with Ghet-O-Vision partnering up with Shady, Eminem, and Paul. It was all a huge surprise to me, you know? They were working it out behind the scenes before they ever let me know, and when I found out, man I was just elated! You know, because I knew that my potential completely changed… OTR Mag: Right. Yelawolf: …And the people who are gonna be able to hear my music. The amount of people based on Em’s fans, D12 fans, and Slaughterhouse fans were gonna give me an opportunity. That’s the biggest upside; just the opportunity that we’d hooked up with for so many years to really share that space and obviously become an apprentice under Marshall. OTR Mag: With the support you’re getting in the industry already, would you say that the industry is becoming more accepting towards you or do you still deal with people in the industry who still have a hard time embracing you and your swag? Yelawolf: Well, I think that within the industry…you know the industry’s funny, man. It’s full of people who are creative and got their jobs because they’re creative. People who got hired as A&Rs because they had an ear or someone thought they had an ear; that kind of gets lost in the politics. Even if people are backing it (the artist’s music) they’ll make political decisions not to back it because everyone’s afraid for their jobs. But what we did is, we just partnered up with artists and put artists first in everything. We went and did collabs. We did collabs with people we were fans of, you know, and we did the tour with Wiz Khalifa and it was a squad. It was like putting the art first. So the grind paid off industry-wise. I think people in the industry, even if they didn’t get it at first, know if nothing else they back it because they respect my hustle. I don’t give up, ever. I would never, ever back down. I think that it’s obvious now that I was never gonna stop. So there are people who are popping up who specifically I’ve known two years ago that weren’t tryna hear it. (They) didn’t understand it, didn’t really get it, that are all about it now. But that’s just the way of the game and I’m not hating; I’m not mad. You know hopefully I’ll have a career of winning over people like that for the rest of my career, and really that’s what it’s about man. OTR Mag: Yeah. Yelawolf: Like you’ll hear kids and the first Outkast (record) they’ll hear is “B.O.B.” and you’re like “What?!” But that’s just how it is. They’ll be someone three or four years down the road and it’ll be their first time hearing a Yelawolf record. They may have slept on it for four years and they’ll become the absolute biggest fans in the world. It’s just about staying on your sh** man. OTR Mag: Word, that’s real; appreciate that. I guess that’s gonna tie in with my next question. How does your music represent your up-bringing or your personal struggle? Yelawolf: I pull everything from life experience. Everything I do, everything I write, I pull from personal experience for the most part. That’s just how I’ve always written records. Like “Pop The Trunk” is very specific to a place, very specific to people. When we shot the video, the video came out so good because we literally got the people I was talking about. We went to the places that I was talking about and it was a marriage there, you know, with visual and music. That’s how I write -- I write visually. When I’m writing verses I try to be as visual as possible so people can kind of peer into my culture. You know, I represent the paradox of small town America. The hip hop side, the small town country boy side, and all in between of that. That doesn’t make sense to the world -- I’m here to make sense of that. Like, “Why does this white boy with this Dixie flag listen to UGK and Three-6 Mafia?”

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OTR Mag: Right. Yelawolf: It’s like putting a light on that because to me it’s so raw and so really raw American. Like working-class, blue collar. The muthaf**kas who keep the wheels turning in this country. And also keep the artists alive in this country because small towns in America man are the biggest supporters of artists. I’ve watched it. I see it. Sh** Lil’ Boosie comes in my town and it’s like Elvis comes to town. OTR Mag: Right. Yelawolf: So I just, to me, it’s my passion to light on that. OTR Mag: Yo, it’s kind of crazy that you brought up the whole subject of the Dixie flag. I went onto your webpage and I saw the flag hanging in the background. In today’s time, do you consider the Confederate flag to be a symbol of southern pride or does it still represent a sign of racism in 2011? Yelawolf: I mean obviously for me it doesn’t represent a sign of racism, for all my people, at all. It’s just an image we in the South grow up staring at every single day. To me it’s owning it. You take that, you own it, and you flip it. The first time I seen the “Ms. Jackson” video & Andre 3000 had a Dixie flag on his belt buckle that really changed me. Like because I was already there like, “Damn man I really want to flip this sh**.” (But) obviously as a white boy it could be looked at as unfair and people don’t understand. It has become just a sense of culture and almost a “New South”. A new way of thinking. It’s a reminder of what we went through in the South and I think that’s what makes us so proud man because now there’s so much unity. There’s so many people unified and color boundaries are breaking that now it’s become a symbol of change. For me it is especially when it’s around my people. You go to a tattoo shop in Gadsden and it’ll be up in there but they are straight playing Aquemini. OTR Mag: Yeah. Yelawolf: It’s a very raw way of thinking but when you don’t have to face the outside world so much; it’s like people in small towns generally do have to leave that much so they are not afraid of being themselves because there’s no one there to judge them. It’s not like they’re go out to New York flying their Dixie flag. They’re in their own community. So to me it’s all good man. Not me or any of my people would represent anything racist. Obviously some people use it for that but you also see the American flag on some racists… OTR Mag: Right. Yelawolf: …On some Skinhead. People apply flags to whatever they want to and put any kind of attitude or connotation on it. OTR Mag: Word. That’s what’s up man. Good on the clarification, because you know there’s probably a lot of people who got their mind on “what does he mean by that?” So that’s cool. Getting back to what you were talking about earlier, about Eminem, and as far as the whole “white boy” rapping issue. In 2011 does it piss you off when you get looked at by your skin color over your skills? Do you still face that? Yelawolf: Yeah you know there’s a lot there as far as me, personally, as being white. It looking how I look, my hair cut, I’m from Alabama. I’m facing a lot of adversity, you know, just naturally because sh** man I chose to be who I am. I was just born on some other sh** man. I’ve always been dressing crazy. My mom can tell you, anybody. I used to throw on the craziest sh** when I was a kid. Pulling knee socks over the top of my jeans and wearing a pair of British Knights. That’s like at seven years old. And listening to Beastie Boys & Led Zeppelin, you know? I’ve always been this skateboarding, all that. So bringing all that into the culture, you know, it’s a lot to accept. I’m not just a white boy. There’s all this other sh**in the subject manner & the things that I talk about. And the attitude that I bring on stage and my ego. You know I have an ego on stage. I have a chip on my shoulder because I do feel like I’m up against the world. So I gotta go hard. I’m coming from a small town. I’m coming from Alabama. I’m tryna put us super, super on you know what I’m saying? Also let people know there’s a real appreciation for the art of MCing & writing records & songwriting & making great albums in hip hop again. I still face you know…only shallow people still on that sh**. I’ve accepted that. I’ve accepted that years ago. I don’t put too much on that anymore. And now that I have arguably, well not even arguably, one the greatest rappers of our time period…well the greatest white rapper of all time to mentor those type of situations man. You know because he’s already been through all that. OTR Mag: That’s good stuff man; word is bond. That’s a done deal. What would you say are at least three components in your grind process that you think helped get to where you are right now? Yelawolf: Relentless hustle, blind faith, and prayer man.

On tha Real Magazine

OTR Mag: Yeah. That’s real. That’s as humble as I’ve heard it; you know straight to the point. What’s your favorite song that you did for Trunk Muzik: 0 To 60 and why? Yelawolf: 0 To 60 my favorite record is “Marijuana”. The reason why it’s my favorite record is because it’s real personal (Laughs). My mom used to take me to all these greenhouses and sh**when I was growing up. You know pounds of dope, like trash bags of it. You know they always, I was always around some hippie weed growers growing up you know? OTR Mag: Mmm-hmm… Yelawolf: And I also saw that side of the hustle, you know hustling herb. Then you know I saw the street side of it, you know, that’s more flashy. You make a little bread off slangin’ some herb and you know that turns into cars, that turns into shoes, that turns into wheels. As to the side I was talking about, the grit and the grind, you know the dirty in the greenhouse. Curing buds and clipping them and cleaning them. Dirt all over you and making runs in cars that the seats come out and they’re pieces of sh**. OTR Mag: (Laughs) Yelawolf: Really just living on the edge on some outlaw sh**. That was my personal favorite because of the story. And we just shot the video for that actually too. I have a special guest, a guest star who plays a role. We kind of wrote like a mini-movie to it almost. OTR Mag: That’s what’s up man. I look forward to the video when it gets done. What’s good with upcoming projects and collabs for this year? Yelawolf: I’m in Vegas right now with the squad for two weeks at this dude named Marley Marl’s studio breaking out “Radioactive”. And we’re taking it song for song. We did a record last night that we got some people in mind for. But we’ve always taken our features and sh**. We’ll make the record first and we can hear a feature on it like, “Damn, so and so would sound great on this record.” We’re kind of in the process of just making the record at this point and we’ve haven’t reached out for any features yet. But we got people in mind. But you know we really just putting the record first. Because you take a chance like, “Man I really want to work with this dude.” And then you grab him and the song doesn’t turn out that great. It’s really just better to make the record first and make sure the sh**’s jumping. That whoever jumps on it still’s gonna be banging. OTR Mag: That’s Cool. Yelawolf: But I do have a Diplo record. I got a Jim Jonson record. That’s it. It’s all like in-house man. We keep it with our crew. OTR Mag: That’s what’s good then. I didn’t know that. I know you did a collab with Big Boi. Yelawolf: Yeah there’s definitely gonna be some surprise features. None that I can give away quite yet but…something to look out for. For sure. OTR Mag: Where did you see yourself being five years ago? Five years from now? Yelawolf: When I say that I have blind faith, I really truly mean that. Five years ago, no sh**, I was in an apartment complex with my cousin and we were talking about Em. I was like, “I wonder if Em would f**k with my sh**?” We had like a whole conservation about the whole scenario like what the meeting would be like. How it would go down. Before I signed to Interscope we were running around to labels and sh** man. We were in a taxi in New York & I was like, “Hey KP man, before we seal the deal with anybody I think we take this over to Marshal man & see what he thinks about it.” Of course we ended up at Interscope & now we partnered up with Shady now. So I say that to say this: I’ve had a vision for a long time & stayed to it & never, ever let up on it no matter what. And now I’ve reached this goal and my new goal is to be rocking stadiums in the next five years. You know 30 to 60 thousand people you know? OTR Mag: Right. Yelawolf: Touring & growing & continuing to challenge myself & my fans. Music is ever evolving & sh**. OTR Mag: Last words? Yelawolf: Thank you to Interscope, Jimmy Iovine, Todd Parker, Luke Wood, Paul Rosenberg, Marshal Mathers, Kawan Prather , Courtney Sills, J Dot; you know the opportunity. The world is about to hear me for the first time so I’m just elated. I’m just thanking my team for sticking it out man. Faith through adversity. We’ve made it this far now it’s time to kill it. OTR Mag: That’s a bet, real talk. I appreciate you talking to me. I wish you the best as far as your label situation and that you blow up. Appreciate you. Yelawolf: I appreciate you dog.

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Baby Jade Trayce Big Deal

Chilli

Jim Jones

Ms. B

Pinky

â&#x20AC;&#x2122; n i p p e R

OTR

Mike Bigga

DJ Smallz

Gudda

Ensayne Wayne Sway

OG Fatal 18

DJ Tex

DJ Ill Will

Rittz

Yelawolf

Greg Street

DJ Sense

Jon B On tha Real Magazine

Josh King

Kirko Bangz

CEO

Mystikal

Zay Toven

Dorrough

Waka Flocka

Dubb G

Gemini Twins

DJ Swamp Izzo

2Chain

DJ Southpaw

Waka Flocka video shoot models

Kna Knock On On tha tha Real Real Magazine Magazine

Pill

Fort Knoxx

BCox

Gucci Mane Jay Future Drumma Boy

Rittz

Drumma Boy

Killer Mike

Doughboy 19 19

Are good men really hard to find? Absolutely not! I hate it when I hear people claim that there aren’t any good men and women out there. With so many networking opportunities through social media websites, that tired plea for pity is officially obsolete. I moved to Atlanta when I was 22 and very much in a longterm relationship. I heard so many negative things about dating in the city that I was terrified to even think I would have to start over when my two and half year relationship ended. I just knew I would be doomed.

If I had listened to the naysayers I would have simply just stayed home. I’m so glad I didn’t. Once I actually started to tackle the dating scene I found myself amongst some of the most educated, ambitious, and stable eligible bachelors in Atlanta. I won’t forget to mention that they were extremely attractive too. I wasn’t out their searching for these men either. They found me. As you can see I am no model like a great majority of the Atlanta single scene. Some of these women will put everybody to shame. I’m as average as they come but I do consider myself a quality woman. I was born and bred right here in Georgia and grew up in a Christian home. Even if you do consider yourself the finest thing in your city, remember this. In order to find quality one must first exude confidence and mimic the same qualities you’re looking for. I’m not out there walking around with my butt cheeks hanging out or winking at men with flashy cars. However, I will show a little skin, just never too much where a brother stops guessing. Men, if you do encounter fine women who switch their demeanor as soon as they discover what you drive, just be careful. It baffles me when I hear people mention it has been months or even years since they’ve been on a real date. If more single women and men would go out more often then they’d be one step closer to finding their match. Whether you’re going to a networking event, a club, or even joining a church’s small group for singles, you absolutely have to get out there. I’m not talking about going somewhere and sitting at the farthest table in the back corner either. And ladies, a stank face with your arms crossed does not say, “I’m available.” With an attitude like that I wouldn’t talk to you either, so don’t expect a man to approach you. I had no idea I was even cute until I learned how to smile. My father taught me that. Find something funny and laugh for a change. Try it. It works.

If you have a relationship question or need advice please email me at torpita@hotmail.com.

Written by: Danielle Sm ith

Though years later I still find myself to be single I can honestly say I have not spent my time alone. The men I have dated have been wonderful, just not quite for me. So instead of cutting them off, I start searching for a better match for them. In college I would match colleagues of mine. To my surprise I had three couples to really hit it off and two are now married. Since living in Atlanta I’ve started organizing a small singles event called The Blind Date Challenge. I take some of the most attractive and eligible single men and women and set them up on a blind date. I’m in my second year of hosting the event and the numbers of applicants have increased tremendously where I am now looking into hosting the event quarterly. I’m not an expert on love but my friends call me the dating queen. My only hope for you is that you don’t give up on your search for love. Your match is out there and I will gladly help you find that special someone.

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"It's a new year and a new grind, but it will always be about having New Money and Money By The Pound.”

FROM MR. MONEY BAGS TO HAVING MONEY BY THE POUND There's something to be said about artists who stay consistent and that is; they get ahead. While many look for short fame and quick success, that can be gone in a shorter amount of time than when it came; Lil Hot is the complete opposite. Born and raised in Atlanta, GA's West Side, which is infamous in the city for its "extracurricular activity," Lil Hot has lived the life that he raps about. He was brought closer to the music after the shooting of his brother and he now sees something to work hard for. "After my brother passed, I turned to music," says Lil Hot. "Since he was the main one telling me that I had something to say and I should go for it, I decided that this is what I wanted to do. Its not just for me anymore, its for him and my family. So in his memory I go hard." 2010 definitely proved to be that year for Lil Hot whose movement went from Zone to Zone. Furthering his reach through collaborations with artists like Duct Tape's Big Bank Black and Alley Boy, who both in their own right created a stable movement for their Zone 6 based label, he successfully picked up more fans along the way. Weaving together stories of inner city struggles over hard hitting beats, he knows just how to connect to his audience and that's through being real. The release of his DJ Scream hosted mixtape "Back To The Streets " put him in a category that almost drew comparisons to the classic “Trap or Die” with its language of street culture. His follow up “Shooters and Lawyers” also did significantly well. Besides dropping hot music, in 2010 Lil Hot also made other big headway through signing to the Memphis based label, Money By The Pound for an undisclosed rumored six-figure deal. Already home to talented artists like Grammy Award Winning Frasier Boy and Novokane, who both have made significant strides in Memphis Hip Hop, Lil Hot immediately took to the block to further bridge the connection between the streets and his new label. "I didn't want anybody to think that I wasn't being true to what I had going on,” starts Lil Hot. "Some people say ‘but the label’s out of Memphis and you’re from Atlanta’, but u got to think, people sign to majors who aren't really from New York. It happens all the time. I just wanted to take the extra strides to make sure everything went over smoothly and they felt as welcome here as I do." Reaping the seeds from a long harvest, Lil Hot deserves everything that is coming his way. With plans to make 2011 bigger than 2010, Lil Hot is constantly making new music, as well as, pitching some of his New Money Artist to the masses. "It's a new year and a new grind, but it will always be about having New Money and Money By The Pound.” Written by Lola "Big Guns" Sims Pic by Karl Orts

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23 23

TRAVIS PORTER tells all

“Americans try to be too cool with it and overseas it’s more relaxed...” - Quez

I was lucky enough to steal some time from the incredibly busy hip-hop trio Travis Porter while they were taking a break from their tour to celebrate member Strap’s 20th birthday. Happy Birthday Strap! Travis Porter, a trio of now all 20-year olds (Strap, Quez, and Ali) hail from Decatur, GA. Coming from the depths of the underground world of hip-hop, this threesome of talented determined grinders are pushing their way to the top and leaving their mark on this generation’s hip-hop scene. All members admitted that if they were not doing music they would either be in some trouble or just lost without their passion. “If I wasn’t doing music I would be just out there making something happen,” says Strap. Out on their tour Travvvy is looking forward to the many destinations but are excited about heading to Europe where their fans like to party. “It’s a whole ‘nother scene over there, they like to party and know all the words to the songs....Americans try to be too cool with it and overseas it’s more relaxed and the I feel like part of the crowd and more comfortable,” Quez explains. These southern boys have been blazing the scene for the past couple of years earning recognition with mixtapes such as “I’m a Differenter” and “Proud 2 Be a Problem” and hot singles such as “Go Shorty Go” and “Bananas”. The Porter Boys have topped many charts and countdowns including BET’s 106&Park, Billboard’s R&B/Hip-Hop charts and also won the “Hottest Break Through Artist” of 2010 poll for MTV. After dominating the indie scene and making their climb to the top of the underground scene, the Porter Boys signed a deal with Jive Records back in November. With their latest hit single “Make It Rain” banging out in the clubs and rocking the radio waves, Travvvy has released the video to the single and it is HOT with 975,181 views within one month. Currently, Travvvy is enjoying the success of their latest mixtape release “Music, Money & Magnums” hosted by DJ Drama, DJ Teknikz and DJ Scream. They also just wrapped up the video for another single being released, “Bring It Back”. As you can see this trio shows no signs of slowing down and I think the world is still Travis Porter hungry. So, keep dishing out the hits boys because the harder the grind the better the rewards and success. By Classie Smith

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“Artists can control their own music... they have access to studios and whatever they need.”

NOOK He’s on It Making a substantial mark in the music industry is no minor feat these days. Lately it seems as though if you aren’t a selfproclaimed one-hit-wonder or satisfied with only reaching underground celebrity status, there isn’t any room for you amongst the heavy hitters in the industry. Charles “Nook” Byrd, a Texas native, has been rapping since the age of 9, releasing his first mixtape in ‘98. His current single “I’m on It” featuring D. Roc of the Ying Yang Twins is a certified club banger and has a feel that is reminiscent of Atlanta’s post-crunk sound. It is currently in heavy rotation in the south and has created a buzz around this veteran rapper. When asked whether he feels he has an advantage over the up and coming rappers on the scene, he simply stated that his experience has taught him how to market and promote himself efficiently and that it has taught him how to remain viable. Long-lasting viability is what most rappers hope for, but Hip Hop has not been showing many rappers much love. Sales have plummeted and quantity seems to hold more value than quality. I asked Nook what his sentiments were on the situation. He replied by saying that, “the industry has turned into a cookie cutter situation. They focus more on singles and trendsetting so everyone’s focused on club records and radio songs. The mixtape game is eating up all the records because artists are focusing on records not albums. I remember in high school when I would wait on an album to drop so I could buy it. I can’t even think of the last classic album to drop. [But] I don’t think it’ll ever get back to the way it was, I think it will get better. Artists can control their own music these days because they have access to studios and whatever they need. Look at Kanye and his website. We don’t have to spend 100,000 of dollars on marketing and merchandising anymore. With the retail stores, I couldn’t control anything; now I can.” Digital sales are now the primary source for purchasing music, but piracy is a major problem that has yet to be solved. Nook’s positive thinking and progressive thoughts may prove to be a defining characteristic that sets him apart from the rest. Keep your eye out for this star on the rise. Nook drop a line: “Yo get a real job/ Rappin doesn’t pay the rent/ I hit the studio/ cuz that’s where all my money went” You can support Nook at NookMusic.com Facebook.com/NookMusic or at Twitter.com/NookMusic Written by Amanda J-Louis

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c i m e n o

One Stage

Nicki Minaj

Kelly Price

Ludacris

Keri Hilson

Diddy

Wacka Flocka

Shawanna

Shawty Lo

Chris Brown

Pitbull

Kilo Ali

Lloyd

Gucci Mane

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Drumma Boy: Marching To The Beat Of His Own Drum

(continued from page 4)

OTR Mag: What is one thing aspiring artists or producers do wrong to get your attnetion? Drumma Boy: One of the most common, & I hate to say it, but they may take a tag or sound that you use and give it to you like "Check me out." Like what am I gonna do with that? As to "Damn did you hear dude's sh**? Like get dude's information for me." It's like a completely different approach now. You have a lot of dudes just tryna blend in. You have a lot of blenders as opposed to trenders. OTR Mag: So originality is the key basically? Drumma Boy: Definitely with anything. And for real like you shouldn't be attacking a producer if you produce. You should be attacking every artist you know in the game. Why do all of these producers in the world wanna be signed to Drumma Boy? Why do they wanna be a part of Drum Squad? Yeah we got a movement but it's so much greater when you start your own movement. All you need is that artist. You sitting on all of those beats. What am I gonna do with them? I might rap on one or two of them. We've given a couple of producers exposure through our Ustream. We did a beat critique through the Ustream and we also use some producers on mixtapes and whatnot. I'm just saying you gotta attack these artists man. That would be my advice. I came up with these artists. You take (Yo) Gotti; he had his buzz on the north side of Memphis and I'm on the south side. I'm like "I'm finna go holla at him and give him some beats. Or who else doing they thing? Alright let me give him some beats. Or let me give him some beats. Or I'm in the 'A', Imma holla at Pastor Troy & give him some beats." I was giving Polow (Da Don) beats before he was even making beats. Jeezy. Boyz N Da Hood. You gotta attack the artists man. OTR Mag: What's good with the Drum Squad Movement and the artists on your roster? Drumma Boy: We got mixtapes up on www.drum-squad.com/mixtapes. We got an artist Allie. She picking up the streets. She was one of the artists selected on Shade45 and got a single picking up in the streets right now. Bay Bay, Gangsta Boo, Myself. The whole roster. Definitely check out the mixtape "Welcome To My City, Vol. One". We got Volume Two on the way. I'm doing another project with DJ Paul (of 3-6 Mafia) called "Clash of the Titans". We got a lot of things coming. We got some records with myself and (Yo) Gotti. I got another record with Gucci & J-Money; The “I Got ‘Em” video on WorldStarHipHop.com . We got the DVD to "Welcome To My City" behind-the-scenes footage. OTR Mag: You've been involved in the “Welcome to Dreamland” reality series. Do you see yourself on TV anymore like that in the future? Drumma Boy: The next thing honestly I see myself doing related to that would be like film and movies. I'm trying cut back on the reality (television). That was a good opportunity to display what type of music I do. We got Leaf, one of our Drum Squad artists, coming up soon too. I think that was platform for me as opposed to something I'm trying to do to get money. I rather do another film, movie, or documentary before I do another reality show. OTR Mag: What role does God play in your career and life in general? Drumma Boy: That's the number one role. That's the foundation role of why we're here and the cause of everything. You always gotta give thanks and praise. You know from there that's every day you wake up, every day you go to OTR Mageep. That's commonly involved in the routine. OTR Mag: Where did you see yourself 5 years ago? 5 years from now? Drumma Boy: Let me see five years ago I think I was in Stone Mountain. I seen myself coming up like every year is gonna be greater. I try to exceed from what I did the year before. You know 2006 I only had out like two records. I had just placed on the Jeezy record and had got my first platinum plaque. So becoming from a one- time platinum plaque producer to Grammy-nominated to reality show winner. I have found a lot of artists that, you know, the evolution of Drum Squad. It's been so many things that have happened in the five-year period. Just gonna surpass the next five years to come you know? I always just multiply greatness. OTR Mag: What do you want your legacy to be after everything is all said and done? What do you want to be remembered for? Drumma Boy: I mean that's just putting forth the best. It's hard to write or say what your legacy's gonna be. Just put forth the best and they'll write the book about it later. OTR Mag: Last Words? Drumma Boy: Check out the website www.drum-squad.com. Follow on Twitter @IAmDrumma. And support us and vote for us we Grammy-nominated once again for the second time. I think it's for "Best Hip-Hop Duo" or something like that. So check us out and vote. (Jeezy's) TM-103 coming soon. Brick Squad’s "Entrepreneur" mixtape coming soon in the streets. The Mary J. Blige project coming soon. I gotta artist name Gail coming soon. Definitely a lot of projects; got Leaf from "Welcome To Dreamland" coming out with a project. She got a little EP coming soon. Y'all stay tuned man. OTR Mag: I really appreciate you taking out the time to speak with me and let the people know what's good with your movement. Thank you very much. Drumma Boy: Alright Imma holla at you bro. Be easy bro. OTR Mag: One. Drumma Boy: Aiit.

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Mixtape Review - “Redemption"

Mixtape Review - “Got Whyte 2.5”

By: .dotGATSBY (WWW.DOTGATSBY.COM) "Redemption" is what Sean Teezy (Arrogant Music) is going to get with this classic street tape. A.M has been working Atlanta's music scene for a few years now and things are definetly looking up for young, motivated, indie vet: Sean Teezy. The legendary, DJ 5150, is the mastermind behind the mixing of the tape! Now, On The Real readers, let's get our own little taste of "Redemption".

By: .dotGATSBY (WWW.DOTGATSBY.COM) Every time I run into Frank Whyte at open mics, he always told me that the "Got Whyte" mixtape series is picking up major buzz. I finally got a chance to sit down and do the random "PICK 6 JOINTS" for Mr. Whyte and was pleasantly surprised! Grab a straw or roll up a $100 dollar bill because I've "Got Whyte 2.5"

DJ 5150 / Sean Teezy

DJ Smoke/DJ Aaries/Frank Whyte

RANDOM - 2. "We All In": I'm not a BIG fan of the chorus because it reminds me of "Balls Out" a little, so, I began listening with an iffy feeling. Yet, as soon as Frank comes in, I realize I dig the intro. Frank's voice grabs my attention as he sets off on a 2 verse massacre. After this joint, I think listeners are ready to test Frank Whyte's product. RANDOM - 5. "3G Network FT. LT": Any smart phone user will love this joint. LT begins with a 3G-themed chorus and then a nasty, offset flow that instantly has me nodding. Frank Whyte then picks up with the second verse and let's you know his book knowledge is as on-point as his street knowledge with references to Aristotle and jacking dopeboys in same verse. LT's third verse wasn't as impressive as the first and I was left wishing the song ended short.

1. INTRO: Coming into a Teezy tape you've got to expect quotables. The Drake-sque production leaves nothing but room for the slaughter of words by our MC."Shit ain't sweet and that I see. When I wanna make a move I look at my two feet." Suddenly, the rain begins. A chant of one word, "redemption". You can feel the energy building. Da Kid carries the torch for verse two. The two compliment each other so well. "Put the bullshit behind us like a shadow" closes out this intro and leads us into

RANDOM - 17. "They On My Dk": "Flava Flav love, Got plenty girls. Gotta pick one 'cuz they're getting on my nerves." The arrogance exudes immensely from this one here. The lyricism sword is sharpened and Frank is OTRicing off heads. Yet, I was puzzled when I heard the mini hook (I say mini because it only happens once through the song). I wasn't really feeling the lack of effort on that. This is definitely something to kick back and smoke to though. I can dig it.

RANDOM - 2. "HEAD ROCK": Teezy's voice appears like a PSA to get the fuck out of your seats and move. Kritical Beatz brings a guitar led banger to supply gasoline to the flame. The catchy chorus carries this song across the finish line with commands to clear the scene for heads are rocking. The mic presence Teezy delivers during this one keeps me rocking, especially with the ad libs. BANGER! RANDOM - 8. "Get Sum Business": A crunk Sean Teezy rides it out on the topic of lames with no business. "Mr cable guy, Jim Carey. Time for movie, Tyler Perry." The content was cool but what carried this track for me was the chorus and the extremely live mic presence. This one will have to grow on me.

RANDOM - 8. "Balls Out": As far as my random 6, This is my definite FAVORITE. I love this song. I've been on stage with Frank and seen the energy that bursts out of him and the crowd once this jam comes on! The chorus is rude, crude and catchy. The flow non-chalant but steady. I feel his lyrical approach during the 16's and how he breaks off from his regular flow to a scheme of "sillay, sillay, feel me, feel me, philly, philly". It's effective. This is defiantly a major record.

RANDOM - 12. "Real Talk Freestyle": Whooo! This production is nasty but I didn't like the mixing on this one. Teezy come his hardest, thus far, on this one. "And the name that I prefer is Mr. Sean, please." The pronunciation through this verse is dope. He stretches endings the right places to keep my attention. The flow structure stays the same through the song but it doesn't get boring because the lyricism keeps you focused and listening.

RANDOM - 10. "Can I Take You Home FT. Ballgame": Ballgame slides through and drops some pimp on the track with this simple, yet catchy chorus with one question: I want to fuck. Can I take you home? The mixing on this joint wasn't all the way official but that was no hold back for this duo. Ballgame's verse is a bit more laid back then the hook which is good since he's first to bat. Frank had me laughing hard off his "Flex, Time to have sex" breakdown during the 2nd verse. 3rd verse was as cool as 2nd. I wish I would've heard more energy from Whyte on this joint though. I didn't feel the lack of mic presence on Frank's part.

RANDOM - 15. "Trust Me Ft. Wacka Flocka and Da Kid": Wacka sets the vibe for this track. He calls out the flexers letting you know he's heard what you got to say and doesn't believe you. It was nice to hear him more relaxed on a track. "Real eyes recognize real lies, trust me" is the chorus. Da Kid comes in a cranks the track with a solid mic presence and lyrics to die for. "Prolly take your jewels like they hang with Hitler". "Yean ain't got old money, you got an old mastercard" Teezy is relentless on this track as he closes out the track. I felt like the verses were a bit shorter than my liking. Either way, This is my favorite so far. RANDOM - 22. "KONVICT": The grim beat switches the mood from the rest of the tape. This is the one that steps out front and SCREAMS, Content. Sure, it's a track about jail. The regular street story. Until you hear the chorus. Why because of mistakes in the past, should we be viewed as convicts in the present? It's a P.S.A to the youth to make sure to you choose your decisions wisely. Teezy paints you images of his perils so you can get and idea of how things are currently happening out here. Now this, is my favorite. So, there it is. .dotGATSBY's "PICK 6 JOINTS" review. Sean Teezy/DJ 5150 - "Redemption" will be definitely make it into my MP3 player. It's a solid mixtape with impressive lyricism through out the mix, production that ranges from club bangers to soulful street anthems, and mixed very well by the hosting DJ! I'm definitely going to SMOKE THIS JOINT! GOD BLESS you all. .dotGATSBY

RANDOM - 19. "Big": I wasn't ready for the bass on this trunk shaker. The anthem-esque chorus comes in suttle but once that beat hits, your left with a different vibe. This has to be my second favorite because I can't get the chorus out of my head. Everything big during the verse's from Frank and no stone or material possesion is left un-rhymed. The song is short and sweet but delivers a major point... Inside the Dirty Connect camp, everything is big.

I don't know about y'all but I'm high as Heaven. This has been the DJ Smoke/DJ Aaries/Frank Whyte - "Got Whyte 2.5" "PICK 6 JOINTS" review and I know every reading this issue of On Tha Real magazine are ready to powder their ear holes with some of this Frank Whyte. GOD bless y'all. .dotGATSBY

On tha Real Magazine

Album Review - "Music Money Magnums"

Mixtape Review - "Return To Sender"

By: .dotGATSBY (WWW.DOTGATSBY.COM) I got high expectations for this one here. I dig Travis Porter's movement to the max. I enjoy most of the music they make because they've established their own steelo. This is actually my first time popping in a Porter House mixtape so let's make it official. On Tha Real readers, here is the "Music Money Magnums" "PICK 6 JOINTS". Leh'go. RANDOM - 2. "Doggin" FT. Short Dawg: Mannie Fresh & Baby would nod their heads to this one. Production is bass heavy & stupid funky! The lyricism isn't top of the tier but the flow of the track is consistent and just plain fun. Short Dawg's feature was on-point & fit in with the pimpish vibe created by the T. Porter trio! This "Still Fly" spin off keeps the ever so smooth "Big Tymers" vibe but adds a splash of ATL. RANDOM - 7. "Team Fuck Yo Couch": Classic interlude. I've stood on-top of a couch at a club and almost got ejected from the club. I am also a member of team .. FUCKYOCOUCH! RANDOM - 16. "College Girl": Acoustic strings lead in this classic ode to college girls all around the world. The vibe is stress free and puts a smile on my face. I think Hip-Hop has been missing songs like this. It's great to hear a break from the norm. If you've ever had the pleasure of dating a college chick, you'll love this one here. If not, you won't have any doubts after listening to this tune. RANDOM - 10. "Feeling Myself FT. Jose Guapo": Jose Guapo, formally of The Rich Kidz, lends swagg to Travis Porter's cocky PSA. "I'm feeling myself". I found myself zoning out on this one. It's cool but it's not enough for me to feel it. It fits all the requirements for a banger but just doesn't stand out. RANDOM - 17. "Propose A Toast": FKi provides the loony, insane melody for this kush advertisement. "Wake up. Bake. Hold up. Wait. Mid. I'm straight. Kush. Ok" I, myself, haven't sworn off mid though I lean towards kush more these days. Travis Porter has though. This is their statement: We don't smoke mids. Only the good ish! Side note: Is that Ballgame doing the "graaaawl" in the background of the beat? Digging this potent pot head promotion song! RANDOM - 05. "Whateva She Want FT. Yo Gotti & Coco Kiss": Yo Gotti brought major Memphis steelo to this banger. I wasn't a fan of the hook when it came on but it grew on me. "Im'a call you Snapple. Girl you got that Juice". The strong bass lets Travis Porter kill 'em with that cool ass slow flow. "You take her to look. I take her to shop. I take her to buy shoes. You take her to buy socks". Coco Kiss lends her voice to the hook, calling out a check list of requirements from pursuing ballers. I'd label this one a classic, but I only reviewed 6 joints. The whole purpose of the "Random Pick 6" is to wow me with any 6, random songs off the mixtape. Travis Porter kept me at mid flight. I wasn't dissapointed because BY NO MEANS is this bad music. They have created their own lane & a massive following. I just wanted to hear more songs like "College Girl" & "Propose A Toast". I wanted to hear more "Differenter". Songs like "Feeling Myself", IMO, are stuck in the basic cookie cutter mold of today's rap. This is a grade A effort, none the less. I'll throw it on the MP3 player, smoke that joint all the way to the roach and then I may have a differenter opion. Much love to Travis Porter & Porter House Music Group. GOD bless you all. .dotGATSBY

By: .dotGATSBY (WWW.DOTGATSBY.COM) "Return To Sender" is just raw. I wish I could end this review on those simple words. Yet, I know you want more. So let me introduce you to Gainesville, GA's own "Black Majik". He's been on the grind for a few years now and has finally dropped his debut mixtape through Henny Whyte Music Group. Sorry Black, but this tape wont be returned to the sender! RANDOM. "Not Afraid": "I'm a animaaaaal" .. A war cry begins this Eminem beat jack. The lyrics on this song are solid and "on-point like a decimal". Auto-tuned vocals in the background soothe you while the lyrical assault on your brain is full strength including sound effects from guns to trains that will catch you off guard. I'm almost on the verge of saying I like this better than Em's version. "So what the science is?" Thanks for the shout, Black! RANDOM. "Rockstar Living Feat. Dr. Reckless": The beat doesn't do it for me on this one. The song, especially the chorus, is very official but I believe the production didn't stand as tall as the lyrics. This is an anthem for anyone that likes to party like their favorite rockstars. Dr. Reckless comes in with a cold 16 that completes this guide to rocking out! "Cuz if you don't care, then we don't care. We'll burn this mutha-f'r down, pass me the flare"! RANDOM. "Dance Floor": My favorite joint off the tape. Ladies, if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for something to get the party STARTED then I suggest D.F. Once the beat breaks down, it's full-on booty shake from beginning to the end. Majik stays on-top of the beat during the track with a flow as strong as a tidal wave and a mic presence that would have any chick ready to dance in even the toughest club. RANDOM. "Lost Without You Feat. Dr. Reckless": Second in line for favorite song would be this one here. Melodic guitar strings carry this one as Reckless and Black let their love interests know that they have nothing without them. Perfect cross-over track. I love when artist's break from the norm and this is no exception. Soul touching Hip-Hop lyricism combined with Top 40 production make a track that you can't listen to just once. RANDOM. "Swag On Max": This one didn't really do it for me. It touched on most of the concepts already hit on this mixtape and even though the production is SERIOUS, I lost interest after song's like "Lost Without.." and "Dance Floor". RANDOM: "Wherever I Go": This joint is something I'd listen to on a night-time drive with my chick. I couldn't play it around the homies but it's good to step off of the beaten path. "A day without you is like a day without air". The visuals painted through this song let me know that he's been through the trials of love and heart-break before and that's needed for a song like this. This calm and collective song will have you thinking back to your one, true love. "Return To Sender" is the definition of an official mixtape. It ranges from precise lyricism on some of the grimiest Hip-Hop production to almost poem-like verses on Taylor Swift-ish production. It travels across genre's to deliver you a solid product. Independent artist's take notes. Black Majik is the complete package as far as a mixtape artist could be defined. On Tha Real Magazine will be waiting patiently for the album. This has been the "RANDOM PICK 6" for Black Majik's, "Return To Sender". Thank you all and GOD bless. .dotGATSBY

DJ Teknikz/Travis Porter

On tha Real Magazine

Black Majik/Henny Whyte Music Group

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On tha Real Magazine

Tell everybody your name and where you are from? I go by the name of StrawberrySiSi and I’m from Indianapolis, IN. I currently live in Long Beach, CA. How long have you been modeling? I’m a fresh face to the industry. I’ve been modeling for 5 months now. Did you always want to be a model or was it just something that you stumbled upon? I’ve always loved taking pictures, but I never thought about being a model because I was a tomboy. I was never the “girly-girl”. 5 months ago when I picked up a Show Magazine, I thought to myself, “I could do this”. I feel like I have the right attitude and a distinctive look, so I’m challenging myself to see if I can get published in some of the hottest urban magazines. You never know where this networking opportunity will take you! So what are you doing with yourself besides modeling? (Working, school, etc.) Right now I’m working for a Healthcare Company full-time. I graduated from college in Indianapolis with a Bachelor’s and I’m hoping to attend the New York Film Academy to obtain my Masters in Producing For Film & TV. What would you say is your best feature and why? I would say my best feature is my legs. I’m very satisfied with my height of 5’7, not to mention the extra inches I grow when wearing pumps. I love my long legs and I try to keep them in shape more than anything else on my body! What do guys say is your best feature? Guys really dig my personality. I am a super cool female and I can relate to a lot of people because of how I grew up. I’m very friendly, easy to get along with, fun to be around, down to earth, caring and the list goes on! In your opinion what are the negatives and positives of modeling? People trying to scam you would be a big negative in the modeling industry. People will promise you things that they can’t deliver on or want you to sign exclusive contracts that basically put you on lockdown. Another negative would be that you’re in competition with the world, so it’s very hard to stand out amongst the other millions of girls who consider themselves models. There are also the females that are loose and quick to use sex as a way to get what they want in the industry, so it makes it harder for those who are actually trying to work their way to the top instead of fu** their way to the top. On a more positive note, modeling is extremely fun, you get to create lifelong memories, you meet tons of interesting people, and modeling leads to so many different avenues. (For the fellas) what would it take for a guy to win your heart? I like a guy who is all about his business first and bullshit later! He has to have street/ book knowledge. I like guys who know what to say & do in any given moment. A guy that can keep it real at all times is my kind of guy. To win my heart, he must know how to treat me like that queen that I am! Any advice you want to give to people in your position or things you may have learned in the process of becoming model? My advice would be to never give up if you think this is right for you. Go for it! You have more to gain than you’ll ever lose if you play your cards right. So many people will try to discourage you, but you have to be tough and keep pushing. Nothing in life is easy and giving up should never be an option if it’s your passion! Always carry the right attitude because it will take you a LONG way What is your Booking # or website? WWW.TWITTER.COM/STRAWBERRYSISI WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/STRAW BERRY SISI WWW.MODELMAYHEM.COM/MZFIRERED Any last words ? Thanks to all my fans/supporters. Thank you for taking the time to check me out! I appreciate the kindness.

On tha Real Magazine

Nathaniel Dwayne Hale ~ aka ~ Nate Dogg (August 19, 1969 – March 15, 2011)

@Snoop Dogg: We lost a true legend n hip hop n rnb. One of my best friends n a brother to me since 1986 when I was a sophomore at poly high where we met. I miss u cuzz I am so sad but so happy I got to grow up wit u and I will c u again n heaven cuz u know d slogan I love u buddy luv. U will always b wit me 4ever n a day u put the g n g funk u put the 1 n 213 n u put yo stamp on evrybdy u ever didit wit all doggs go to heaven yo homie n baby brotha bigg snoopdogg!! @Ludacris: There is a certain void in hip hop’s heart that can never be filled.Glad we got to make history together. RT @SnoopDogg: RIP NATE DOGG. @50 Cent: I just landed nate dog is dead damn. GOD BLESS HIM R.I.P he meant a lot to west coast hiphop. Iv always been a fan of it. @50 Cent I wrote the chorus to 21 questions I needed nate to sing it for me. He had a way of making everything feel hard. @Xzibit: We love you Nate Dogg, it’s never going to be the same. We lost a solider, a father, a legend, a homie. My condolences go out to Ms. Ruth and the entire family. Celebrate #Nate Dogg #FOREVER. 32 On tha Real Magazine

Any rap fan or child of the ‘90s worth their salt knows a thing or two about Nate Dogg. But the late hip-hop star, who passed away on March 15th due to complications from multiple strokes, is much more than the sum of his hits (of which, let it be known, there were plenty). So, from his surprising past to his frequent collaborators to his time in uniform to his debilitating health problems, here are the five things you need to know about his mourned music master: 1. Everything He Touched Turned to Gold and Platinum: Of this there can be no dispute: Nate Dogg had a knack for making hits, though you could be forgiven for not realizing it, as the four-time Grammy nominee was often overshadowed by his more famous collaborators. And while he certainly achieved solo success, it’s his seminal collaborations that will be most remembered for their lasting influence on the West Coast rap scene: from his work on Dr. Dre’s The Chronic, to 1995’s now iconic G-funk anthem “Regulate” with Warren G, to Tupac’s “All Eyez On Me,” to Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg’s “The Next Episode,” to Ludacris’ “Area Codes” to Eminem’s “Shake That,” Nate was the industry’s go-to rapper. 2. He Was One of the Few, One of the Proud: When he was just 16 years old, Nate, whose real name was Nathaniel Hale, dropped out of Long Beach Polytechnic High School and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He served for three years before returning to the LBC, where he hooked up with Snoop and Warren G to start the rap trio 213 (named in honor of their area code). They soon caught the ear of Dr. Dre (the fact that he’s Warren G’s stepbrother couldn’t have hurt) and the rest is history. 3. He Was Plagued by Health Problems: While the family confirmed to their local paper that Nate Dogg passed away, no exact cause of death was immediately announced. His longtime attorney Mark Geragos said that the rapper died from complications due to multiple strokes. He suffered debilitating strokes in 2007 and 2008; the former left him partially paralyzed and suffering partial memory loss (though he eventually cognitively recovered), and the latter left him temporarily on life support and with a feeding tube. Over the weekend prior to his passing, Warren G. even tweeted an update on his pal, letting fans know that Nate was in therapy and thanked well-wishers for their support. 4. He Had His Problems With the Law: Back in 2006, one of Nate’s ex-girlfriends brought a domestic violence complaint against him, accusing the rapper of aggravated trespass, battery, telephone harassment, violating a restraining order and dissuading a witness from reporting a crime after breaking into the Newport Beach home occupied by his former partner and her new beau. According to police reports of the incident, once inside, he punched the man in the face and left. In 2008, he pleaded guilty to aggravated trespass and battery and was sentenced to three years of informal probation. In 2009, he was arrested on suspicion of felony stalking after his partner claimed he had threatened her life and chased her down the freeway. The rapper pleaded not guilty to the charges, and the case was ultimately dropped. 5. He’s Already Deeply Missed: Shortly after news of his death broke, his friends, fans and collaborators began flooding Twitter with messages of remembrance. First out of the gate was Snoop, who lamented, “We lost a true legend n hip hop n rnb. One of my best friends n a brother to me since 1986 when I was a sophomore at poly high where we met…I love u buddy luv…RIP NATE DOGG.” His sentiments were echoed by Ludacris, Erykah Badu, The Game, Xzibit and more, while Warren G and Eminem were readying statements to release later this morning. Nate’s brother Samuel even appeared on Los Angeles’ KDAY FM later that week, and while he declined to discuss the specifics of his brother’s death, he said he felt “numb” by the unexpected passing. RIP, Nate Dogg. Following his debut on The Chronic, Nate’s streetwise-smooth hooks were an integral part of the loosely defined 1990s hiphop subgenre known as G-Funk. He appeared on records by Warren G (“Regulate”), Snoop Dogg (“B—– Please”), and several tracks by Tupac, and later sung hooks on records by Ludacris, 50 Cent, Eminem, and many others. He also released a number of solo albums, including G-Funk Classics Vol. 1 & 2, Music & Me, and Nate Dogg.

Words by Denise L. Britton-Young

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