Rapstar Magazine Premier Edition 2011 by Keith Napier

Now that the long wait is over, with Cameron "Wiz Khalifa" Thomaz's highly anticipated major label solo debut finally available, the verdict is in. Overall, Rolling Papers, despite mixed reviews, is already a huge commercial success.

Dear Roxanne/Shante Boss Hogg Editors Pick The Future of hip Hop Young Haitti Lil easy E M-DASH Dinerro The boss O.T.F.B Potluck CHINGY BERNER KILLER MIKE ASKARI X REEK DADDY THE COACH‟S CORNER Video Review My Opinion Terrance Dean “MOGUL” Thelma Wright "With Eyes From Both Sides” Tia P. Ms. Toi “I Am A Warrior” Al Greeze Film “Frustrated”

Ricky Donnell Ross, most commonly referred to as "Freeway" Rick Ross, is definitely no stranger to controversy. During the early 80's, Ross arguably built one of the largest stateside drug empires on record with earnings of at least 1 million dollars a day, only to see it all eventually come crashing down with the culmination of his arrest and 1996 life sentence conviction.

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Shill Mac Listen Close O.Z. Rapstar News Scene Future “Wise Words Spoken” Swollen Members Phenomenal Radio Khela MACIO & MARCO LIFESTYLES GFAM RADIO JMAL THE SCHOLAR SAM BOSTIC Versatile Producers Showcase Laylaw “Tales from the West Coast” Javi Picazo MERCELESS Rapstar International Rapstar Comedy Rapstar Hip Hop/R&B Rapstar “For the Record” Rapstar Reviews

When Calvin "Snoop Doggy Dogg" Broadus, Jr., first stepped onto the scene way back in April of 1992, it was apparent that Hip-Hop had just found its brightest new star. People loved this gangly Long Beach rapper, who couldn't have weighed much more than a buck o' five, with his laid-back, slow flow style of delivery.

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First of all, I'd like to welcome you to the Inaugural issue of Rapstar Magazine. The premise of the magazine is to showcase the Hip Hop movement from when it began in the 1980's to what it has evolved into now-a form of vision, words, actions and feelings that is not afraid to tackle any subject that is considered important and relevant to today's world. When I first began my career in the Hip Hop scene some 20 years ago, I never gave it a thought as to how this art form would shape music as we know it today. I have watched it evolve from street corners and boom boxes to digital turntables and Auto-Tune. I have watched it from infancy in NYC to spread throughout the United States and erupt overseas like an atom bomb-the effects of Hip Hop are far-reaching and ever evolving. I have seen the good, the bad, and the ugly side of this business and hope to share with you some of the things that this genre of art has taught me. The things I have witnessed within the evolution of this art form and its subsequent effect has prompted me to give birth to Rapstar Magazine. With the fresh and positive energy the new generation is presenting to the world, it is my purpose to showcase new talent with an emphasis on how the past has influenced the future. Directing you through the eyes of some unexpected sources, Rapstar Magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s aim is to make you hear the awareness of what is going on in the world from the creation of their music and how this new generation interprets and incorporates it into what they produce. I want you to understand how they respect and pay homage to their Hip Hop forefathers and how it is reflected in the rhythm and flow of their craft. My mission is to bring this forward to you in a way that will make you aware of how the education and influence of this generation is flowing into the up and coming prodigies arriving onto the scene. I also hope to show you using this forum how the diversity that what we call Hip Hop has crossed oceans and borders alike to bring new sounds, words, and visual arts to the craft. Artists from Africa to Russia have embraced Hip Hop as a medium for them to exercise their right to speech (although some not with FREE speech) to speak to what is going on in THEIR worlds; therefore, exploring other avenues which were not open to them before. I also represent the diversity within our own boundaries-Hip Hop knows no color...just a shared love for the art portrayed on different pallets of bodies. Within the Hip Hop community, we are as diverse as we are together with the love of the beat that feeds the words that releases the story into rhyme. In closing, I would encourage you to flip through the pages to see Hip Hop from a point of view that has seen Hip Hop educate, entertain, and visualize a way of life that has resulted in a positive impact on the way we see our world today. Some of the artists featured here come from backgrounds that could be seen as so negative it will leave you wondering how that person used their craft to uplift themselves from that way of life. You will see and hear of artists that have a vibe as smooth as butter and gentle like a summer breeze. There are some that are featured that the message that they present is almost like Deliverance-it was their way out, so to speak. But the message that ALL of us bring to you is that Hip Hop is many things-for some, a way of life, for others, a way to deliver their message of life. I hope to share this with you and along the way, remember our history and encourage our future. Keith L. Napier Editor-In-Chief

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EDITOR –IN CHIEF / FOUNDER Keith LeMar Napier

EDITORIAL EDITOR Todd Davis

EDITORIAL REVIEW

Delvon Napier, Ava-Marie Jones, Todd Davis, Andrea Jones

LAYOUT DESIGN & ART DIRECTION

Brittni Napier, Gerried Matias, Kash EastHouse Graphics, Shopking Graphic design

EXECUTIVE VP, STATEGIC MARKETING & BRANDING & NEW MEDIA Rhan Ferdinand

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Todd Davis, Red Dog, Andrea Jones, Ava-Marie Jones

PUBLIC RELATIONS

Makeda Smith, Jazzmyne Publicity, Blackmarket Media

MARKETING &PROMOTIONS

Coast 2 Coast Marketing & Promotions, Charel Grimes of Grimes Promotions, Rob Reasons of Reason Media Team, @BrushfyreMB

DISTRIBUTION International

DISCLAIMER: RAPSTAR MAGAZINE is published quarterly by Napier Publishing. RAPSTAR MAGAZINE does not take responsibility for unsolicited materials, misinformation, typographical errors, or misprints. The views contained herein do not reflect those of the publisher or its advertisers. Ads appearing in this magazine are not an endorsement or validation by RAPSTAR MAGAZINE for products or services offered. All photos and illustrations are copyright by RAPSTAR MAGAZINE. All other content is copyright 2011 RAPSTAR MAGAZINE, all rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any way without written consent of the publisher. Printed in the United States.

HOLLA AT US: Send us your feedback, input, suggestions or comments. Send your email to rapstaropinion@gmail.com. For editorial or advertising send your email to rapstareditorial@gmail.com or rapstaradvertising@gmail.com.

Visit us online http://rapstarmagazine.net/ http://twitter.com/#!/rapstarmagazine

This issue of Rapstar Magazine is Dedicated In Loving Memory of

Jonathan Paul Brunson September 2nd, 1966 –September 2nd ,2008 3And

I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and HE will dwell with them, and they shall be HIS people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. 4And

God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

-Revelation 21:3-4 ~Our Dream has become a Reality my friend~

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Now from what you wrote, I'm able to tell that unfortunately you already have a very personal if not physical relationship with this man. Female Hip-Hop Rule #3: " Your manager should have only one position, and that's not doggy style!" Once your business relationship turns too personal, it opens the door for emotions to get involved, which brings with it emotional decisions. I know you want to stay loyal, but unless the two of you can come to an agreement to make it only business, then I suggest you start looking for another manager and another man. Remember, if you want to mess up anything involving business, just turn it personal. Sincerely, Roxanne

Dear Shante, My husband is trying to get his rap career started and he's 39 . I want to support him because he's my husband and very good. We have three children, and he's not working. Sometimes I feel like he is using his career as an excuse not to work, or help with kids. What should I do? Signed, I'm tired!

Dear Roxanne/Shante Dear Roxanne, I am finally making some noise in the industry, and my manager, who was like a friend before, is now trying to be more than that. He keeps talking about how much he has done for me, and how he can't have a decent relationship because of how much he's into me. When I'm seeing someone, he always says they are not good for my career and forces me to leave them. Should I move on or stay loyal? He has done a lot for me . Signed, What are you...My man or manager? Dear Man or Manager, Well, first I want to say congratulations on making some noise in this industry, because it's so overcrowded. Fewer and fewer are barely able to get their foot in the door.

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Dear I'm Tired, Well, let me say, "I'm tired too!"...Of hearing how many young women are taking care of the household, the kids and the so-called studio time, while Mr. "I'm gonna be the the next Lil Wayne or Jay-Z" just stays home and writes rhymes. Look, you must put your foot down for your children's sake! I don't put an age on Hip-Hop, but if he's not popping at 39, then he needs to have a day job and help out because last I looked a wanna-be rapper wasn't a job that came with a paycheck. I'm not saying don't support his dreams, but sh*t that's his dream and it shouldn't become your nightmare! Sincerely, Shante

If you have any questions for Roxanne or Shante, please email me at: RapWitRox@gmail.com

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BOSS HOGG He calls himself a "ghetto newscaster" and a big, big ladies man. At about 300 pounds. Boss Hogg's name is as unique as his appearance. He was born Robert Harper in South Central, Los Angeles. He is the product of a single mother home. "My mother was abused by my father and left on welfare. I had nowhere to turn but to a gangsta lifestyle because I grew up with a lot of confusion," Boss Hogg says. It's that confusion that inspires the critically acclaimed tunes that he produces today. Boss Hogg believes he would've ended up dead like so many young men he knew, but rap music was his way out. Boss Hogg's first performance drew cheers from his classmates at 68th Street Elementary School in L.A. The positive experience has propelled him to where he is today. Boss Hogg and Casanova met and instantly clicked due to their common goals and determination. They recruited Twisted (rapper) and Shorty Mac (vocalist) and labeled themselves Da Suspectz. Boss Hogg and Casanova started Suspectz Records in 2002 instead of trying to get a record label to sign them. They released their records independently. Two of the groupâ&#x20AC;&#x;s songs "early in the Morning" and "Game" are big hits on California radio stations KGGI 99.1 and KUCR 88.3 and are featured on a compilation CD entitled "Platinum Plus" which is being distributed in Ohio record stores and at www.cdbaby.com/cd/ Ironfist1 .

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In 2003 Boss Hogg released "Guilty Till Proven Innocent" a 7 track EP under his label Suspectz Records. This CD is available at www.cdbaby.com/bosshogg and has sold more than 3,000 hard copies and 100,000 downloads to date. He made it his business to feature on as many projects as possible, including a group project titled Wyze Sonz Cartel "HATIN," which got him a lot of attention overseas (Africa, UK, Canada, etc.). In 2008 Boss Hogg dropped his first solo mix tape titled "Tha Unda Hogg" and sold several thousand copies mainly in NY, GA & AL. Disgusted with the direction Hip Hop was going, Boss Hogg decided to hang up his mic. At least thatâ&#x20AC;&#x;s what he thought at the time.

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Rapstar: What are you currently working on and what can we expect to see? Boss Hogg: I‘m currently in the studio working hard on my new mix tape "He's Bacc" hosted by Cold Cash, available now, and planning to release my first full length CD in spring 2012! Rapstar: Tell us about one of the hardest challenges you had to face in the industry? Boss Hogg: Corporate America figured out how powerful Hip Hop is and infiltrated our culture. Now they are using it to push their AGENDA which is keeping the masses Def, Dumb & Blind! If u ain't dancing and making music about a lifestyle that is unattainable for most then it‘s hard to get major promotion. Rapstar: What was one of the biggest setbacks in your career and how did you bounce back? Boss Hogg: Getting frustrated and taking 2 years off cause time stops for No Man, but "He's Bacc" now and better than ever. Rapstar: What are some things artists need to be careful of? Boss Hogg: MAJOR RECORD LABELS Rapstar: What suggestions do you have for other artists like yourself? Boss Hogg: No matter how talented you are, if you don't have an investor be ready to invest thousands before you ever see a dime. If you can deal with that, then treat this like a job you're getting paid to do even when you're not getting paid. That‘s how you're going to put yourself in a position to get paid. Try not to burn any bridges if you can avoid it because you may have to cross it again. Rapstar: What are the best ways to sell your products as an artist? Boss Hogg: It takes a lot of internet grind, but don't forget to hit the streets, take it to the people. Rapstar: What is one of your favorite ways to promote yourself and your music? Boss Hogg: Doing shows because if you have stage presence it‘s easy to win fans over. Rapstar: Any last comments or statements? Boss Hogg: Gotta give a BIG SHOUT OUT to my Fans & everyone supporting me in any way. I‘m here to bring back reality music, the kind we were making before the multimillion dollar deals, the kind the masses can relate to. Follow Boss Hogg at:

http://twitter.com/#!/bosshizzle http://www.facebook.com/bosshizzle

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Brandt Jones, better known by his stage name B-Legit, is a rapper from Vallejo, California. He is a member of The Click, a rap group formed by his cousin, E-40. He has been on several independent labels such as Jive Records, Koch Records, as well as his current status with Universal Records. B-Legit gained much attention for collaborating on Tupac Shakur's album titled All Eyez on Me. He has also collaborated with numerous other artists including E-40, Celly Cel, Too Short, Jadakiss, Styles P, Snoop Dogg, Master P, Daz Dillinger, Kurupt, The Federation, Mystikal, UGK, Mack 10, Paul Wall, Keak Da Sneak, Rick Rock, Young Buck, The Luniz, and the late Mac Dre. Some of his cousins include all members of The Click, Mac Mall, Turf Talk, B-Slimm and Lil' Bruce. B-Legit is currently working on his long overdue still untitled sixth solo LP, a collaborative effort, Dolla Danglin', with long-time partner'n'rhyme, E-40, as well as The Click's highly anticipated reunion collection. In addition, Bela is also grooming an up'n'coming female rap artist named Harmony. The Madison, Wisconsin, by way of Las Vegas, Nevada, native femcee is presently recording her debut album.

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Albums 1993: Tryin' to Get a Buck 1996: The Hemp Museum 1999: Hempin' Ain't Easy 2002: Hard 2 B-Legit 2005: Block Movement 2005: Purple House President 2007: Throwblock Muzic http://www.facebook.com/RapstarMagazine

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Going Green With Wiz Khalifa By Todd Davis Now that the long wait is over, with Cameron "Wiz Khalifa" Thomaz's highly anticipated major label solo debut finally available, the verdict is in. Overall, Rolling Papers, despite mixed reviews, is already a huge commercial success. The fourteen-track set was initially introduced back in September with its infectious, anthem-like call-and-response lead single, "Black and Yellow," produced by hit-making Norwegian duo Stargate. The album also features stellar contributions from Too $hort ["On My Level"], Curren$y ["Rooftops"], and fellow Rostrum signee Chevy Woods ["Star of the Show"]. "It‘s an appropriate title. It‘s called Rolling Papers, like the papers that you roll, the papers that I roll, the papers that we smoke. But it‘s deeper than that, too. I thought of this before I even started recording the album and before it was a full idea. It‘s not just about the weed thing. It‘s bigger than that! My career really took off when I started smoking papers," the 23-year-old Minot, North Dakotan believes. "I [also] called it Rolling Papers ['cause] when I left Warner Bros., I sort of got my ‗rolling papers.‘ I got my contract fucking rolled up and smoked! [...] I was able to leave, and I was able to do my thing and [...] capitalize off that. So, that‘s another pair of papers that I really needed in my life. The third reason why I named it Rolling Papers, I quit writing a long time ago. I stopped physically writing it down, or putting it in my BlackBerry or iPhone. I write notes down, but I don‘t write whole verses, so it was like saying goodbye to the paper. The paper‘s rolling out, too!" In its premiere week, Rolling Papers moved an impressive (for this day and age, anyway) 197,000 units, landing in the respectable No. 2 position just behind Britney Spears's Femme Fatale. And with his Campus Consciousness Green Carpet tour with label mate Mac Miller now over, Wiz is gearing up to hit the road yet again; this time, he's with G.O.O.D. Music's Big Sean and Taylor (as in Chucks; Converse All-Stars) Gang alum, the aforementioned Chevy Woods, for his Rolling Papers World Tour, which kicked off on May 17th in London, England.

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In addition to all this, Wiz and his good pal, newly-established mentor Snoop Dogg, will soon be teaming up for their first motion picture, already being touted as a ―comedy stoner movie." "[It's] called High School. It's a buddy film, and we'rehttp://www.facebook.com/RapstarMagazine

-just playing on our relationship, giving people something fun to get high to. That's the mission of the film," Khalifa recently told Spin Magazine scribe Evan Serpick. He then broke down his unique bond with Snoop: "He's been doing this forever, so he just told me all the right things to do: be natural, be myself, and just come through with it and never hold back. Even more than weed, we talk about business. Snoop has a lot of game to give me, and he doesn't mind listening to my point of view, because I'm young and I've got the game now. He's had the game forever, but I know what's poppin' now, so he doesn't mind asking my opinion and following my lead on stuff." Wiz, a former military brat who lived abroad in Germany, England, and Japan before settling back in the states, cites Camp Lo, The Notorious B.I.G., and Bone Thugs-n -Harmony as some of his strongest musical influences. He's been romantically linked to popular model Amber Rose (an abbreviated version of her name, â&#x20AC;&#x2022;Amb,â&#x20AC;&#x2013; is tattooed on his thumb); at press time, reports of an alleged altercation between Khalifa and Rose's former flame, Kanye West, emerged. It supposedly took place at this year's Coachella festival. It is still unclear as to what exactly went down, but a bevy of rumors claim that West disrespected Amber when he blantantly directed a stinging line from "Stronger" in her direction. Stay tuned as this story develops... Wiz (short for Wisdom) Khalifa (a word that translates as "successor" in Arabic) also launched his very own customized, limited edition line of sunglasses, The Elevators, through Pittsburgh-based Eyetique this past fall. He's definitely no one-trick pony, that's for damn sure! Music, movies, merchandise, a world tour...the universe is his oyster! Is he surprised by all this newfound mainstream adoration? "Actually, not at all, just because it's been a lot of work up until this point," Wiz answers emphatically. "All of the stuff that I've done that people haven't been able to see, that's what built my character into who I am now. So, this stuff, I'm just ready to knock it out." Wiz Khalifa Website http://www.wizkhalifa.com/ MySpace http://www.myspace.com/wizkhalifa Twitter http://twitter.com/#!/realwizkhalifa Facebook http://www.facebook.com/wizkhalifa?sk=info#!/ wizkhalifa?sk=wall

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a recording artist of any age. If anyone questioned the profitability of a pintsized rap star, he is eating the punctuation mark right now.

The Future of Hip Hop By Andrea N. Jones It has been said ad naseum in recent years that Hip Hop is dead. Many believe that Hip Hop music‘s message ceased the day it was used to sell everything from sneakers to Happy Meals. Despite the counterintuitive belief of the cynics that music does not transform lives, a new generation of Hip-Hop artists is coming forth to make its mark on the Hip Hop sound and the world—and they‘re not even teenage. What does their brand of the genre have to offer? Will and Jada Pinkett Smith‘s 10 year old daughter Willow Smith rocked her way to a platinum-selling single with ―Whip My Hair.‖ It debuted on the Hot 100 at number 11 and hit Number 5 on the R&B chart. She was quickly signed to Jay-Z‘s Columbia Records off shoot, Roc Nation. Everyone knows that kids have talent, but can they sell units in Hip Hop? Since its debut last fall, ―Whip My Hair,‖ which quickly became an anthem to the young and, likewise, young at heart has sold over 1.2 million copies digitally, a score for

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It was obvious to anyone who would ride around with young Daniel Weissmann of the Portland, OR area, at all of 8 months, that he had an incredible sense of rhythm. He would bob his head to Jay-Z, Nas and Tupac strapped in his car seat in the backseat of the car. He also played with his father‘s Yamaha Motif 6 synthesizer, switching sounds and playing the keys with rhythm and form. At the age of 7 Daniyel began rapping as Da Future to the old school beats of Dr. Dre, Run DMC, Slick Rick and Rahim. Now 9, Da Future, Future for short, has opened for Slick Rick, Beatnutz and Rahzel.

Off the heels of his first single, ―Da Future is Here,‖ Future is poised to take the world by storm. He already captivated Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber, making the front page of The Oregonian with Kitzhaber this May after delivering a flawless impromptu performance in a Northeast Portland café for him. Future is quite cognizant of the message he sends to listeners through his verse. ―I want [listeners] to get the message about me that I‘m positive,‖ says Future. ―I‘m telling you something I know

about--school, teachers, different events that happen around the world, and put them in my songs.‖ Future was recently inspired by Martin Luther King‘s ―I Have a Dream‖ speech and placed his ideas from it in his upcoming single, ―I Can Be the President.‖ Future discusses his process for coming up with his own lyrics: ―Usually, I think of a subject going on in my life and I start writing to a beat. [My producer] tells me if it‘s good or okay and then we get to a final draft and then we start recording.‖ One can say this apple does not fall far from its tree. Da Future‘s father, Orion Weissmann, is Portlandbased rapper OP1, CEO and Founder of True Shine Entertainment, a label that works with artists who create music with a message. Weismann started rapping at 8, built his first studio while attending Berkeley High School in progressive Berkeley, CA. Although True Shine was Weissmann‘s baby since he was a teen, he formed the label as an LLC in 2008. Macwon, 12 has been making music half his life. His grandmother, De La Davis (also known as SWEET DEE), noticed his talent for music at age 8 when she heard some of his beats. He had actually been making beats with his uncle from the age of 6. After hearing his music she loaded young Macwon in her car and drove him over to a local Vallejo, CA radio station to hand deliver a copy of the beats. The station played his music then and still does today. From there, they haven‘t looked back. Davis is also Macwon‘s manager. Macwon is motivated to rap for the way it expands his mind. ―To me, music is an art, a creation,‖ he exclaims. ―And I‘m a creative person.‖ He cites Lil Wayne, Souljah Boy and Wiz Khalifa as his greatest musical influences to date. He admits that he has a healthy competitive nature. Listening to other artists makes him in turn want to create better music. He

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tries to make magic out of twelve to sixteen bar verses. He enjoys rocking an audience and is becoming a real pro. Davis worked out a deal with the owners of Vallejo‘s Margarita‘s Mexican Restaurant for Macwon to hold a monthly show there. ―I bring a positive view to things,‖ Macwon explains. ―I want people to know how good I am, that I can do this.‖

Indeed, very young adults have penetrated Hip Hop culture before this new wave of rappers and proved they could be bankable. Kriss Kross‘s 1992 debut album, Totally Krossed Out, featuring the mega hit ―Jump,‖ sold over 4 million copies by the young teens Chris ―Mac Daddy‖ Kelly and Chris ―Daddy Mac‖ Smith. While both were just 13 years old their single, ―Jump,‖ topped the Billboard charts for eight weeks. The album went number one in Australia and New Zealand. Their second album sold a respectable one million copies. Bow Wow hit the scene in 2000 with Beware of Dog at 13. The album went triple platinum with 3 million copies sold. He continues to do his thing with his seventh album, Underrated, slated for release later this year and a budding acting career with roles in such films as All About The Benjamins, Johnson Family Vacation, Lottery Ticket, and most recently, Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Big Happy Family.

In 2001, Master P‘s 12 year old progeny released the eponymous Lil Romeo which went double platinum. His second release, Game Time, sold even more with over 2.5 copies sold. Romeo is now also a seasoned actor, appearing in the recent film release, Jumping the Broom, continues to rap and won a spot competing for America‘s votes on the very popular ―Dancing With The Stars‖ in its 12th season. Both Future and Macwon are hopeful their rap careers will also open doors to exploring their acting chops as well. Even though they are immersed in pursuing entertainment double threat status, they remain excellent students. Macwon explains why it‘s so important not to let his education slide as he pursues superstardom: ―I want to be a rapper, but if rapping doesn‘t work out, I want to do something else. If I do well with my schooling, when I get older, I‘ll have an education. I‘ll have something to fall back on.‖

reasons,‖ says Weissmann. ―One is that everything happens in cycles. We went from an era of old school Hip Hop where the music was used to serve a higher purpose to corporate sponsored rap music. Now we‘re seeing young artists who can be themselves and talk about positive things. The kids have more innocence [than older rappers], but are born with a lot of intelligence, intelligence beyond their years. I feel they can make it cool to be yourself, not to buy into a fantasy land and do what others said was not possible years before.‖

YouTube has become a breeding ground for young talented rap artists. Thousands of videos are uploaded every day by the world‘s best and brightest youths themselves. Some are fortunate enough for their video to go viral. The Hip Hop group Watoto From The Nile‘s ―Letter to Lil Wayne‖ video took on the industry superstar, sparking a firestorm of discussion. The trio of sisters Nia, 10, Nya, 9 and Kamaria Natur, 5, from Baltimore, MD took Lil Wayne to task over his lyrics many might call misogynistic and disrespectful to women. In a week‘s time the video went viral and had a quarter million views. ―There is a proverb that says, ‗It takes a village to raise a child,‘‖ says the trio‘s father Jabari Natur in a recent video interview. ―Someone said back to me the other day that it takes a child to make a village. That makes sense.‖

One thing is crystal about all of these young people in Hip Hop. They have much heart and show extraordinary commitment to the craft of making music. The message they all deliver—create your own inner strength. ―To me, Hip Hop is more than music,‖ says Macwon. ―When I write a song, it‘s like me. It‘s real.‖

So, are these kids the future of Hip Hop? ―[They] are the future of Hip Hop for many

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Follow Da Future at: Website www.IAMDAFUTURE.com

Label site www.trueshineentertainment.com

Follow Macwon at: Twitter http://twitter.com/#!/macwon Myspace http://www.myspace.com/gestack Youtube

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Hip Hop/Rock artist "Young Haitti" is elevating the lyrical realm of the music industry. His sound is highly diversified with plenty of visual spices of life from regions as far reaching as Africa and Haiti. Coming from the renowned San Francisco Bay Area, CA this artist is fine-tuning his career in this music industry. If he looks familiar, it's because you may have seen him on MTV Jams 2 Sucker Freestyle in March 2010 and the many music videos he has circulating through many of the online social media networks. Along with performing and opening for such acts as Lil Wayne, 112, Destinyâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s Child, DMX, 8Ball & MJG and even P-Diddy just to name a few. "My topics vary from point blank to subtle everyday life pulling from fact, fiction and past myths" says Haitti. This artist has the personal deepness of OutKast, the aura of a young Rakim, the uniqueness of a Kid Rock and the appeal akin to Linkin Park...he is truly blessed. Haitti says he tries to materialize the meaning of his name through his music. Within his lifetime, he has drawn upon a wider view of himself and the world by both having professionally performed in front of international audiences and in his personal upbringing having been raised with refugees. "I lived in Africa and Haiti for many years and I'm a believer that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s not where you're from it is where your mind is at. I believe that America is going to become a Third World Country and we as people need to start getting ready and smart about the things that are around us. We've got to speak to each other be it personally direct, through song, music and or rap. I believe I'm hotter than fish grease and I've

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got a legitimate message. I am an entertainer, and I love what I do. I have the skills and drive that create great artists. I know what I want and I'm doing it faithfully. When I was younger I sold 20,000 units out my backpack at $5.00 a pop with only four songs on it so I knew what I had because I tested the waters myself and made money off of it." Over the short period of time of making myself acquainted with this artist, so much has changed. When I met Young Haitti just two months ago he was persistently handling his business, dropping new solo projects and group albums, along with opening more venues for big name artists, and right before we finished this article, Haitti had made some very significant moves in his musical life. After attending a major industry convention in Las Vegas, Haitti was approached by several important people. "I went there just to give my packages out and let people know who I am. I ended up being asked to perform and Bootsy Collins heard me and asked me to record with him for his upcoming album. That was a done deal. I also met these Baton Rouge cats who took me all the way to Louisiana to discuss a very attractive deal. They coordinated the formation of the group "The Cirkle‖, however, I am still a solo artist." Young Haitti began his lyrical journey into the hip-hop world when he was discovered by producer James Earley in 1995. He released his debut album ―Whatz A Thug‖ in 1997 as Bateen Idol from the rap group The Cirkle. The Cirkle soon went on tour and performed for over 45 Southern Colleges, sharing the

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stage with an assortment of today's major Dirty South artists. Having lived for many years of his life in West Africa, Young Haitti shares with us the soul of a young traveling man. His songs will move you, make you think, and give you something to bounce to. In 2010 Young Haitti remained a force to be reckoned with as he dropped his 5th album and re-released his 4th album at the same time. His ―KryPhy Music‖ (03/27/10) recorded in Atlanta, brings you the hard rawness of Bay Area Rap with the soul of the South. ―The Baydahatian‖ (04/03/10) delivers a Texas/Louisiana feel mingling with the swag of the Bay Area, both available now in most major record stores in the USA and Japan. Now teamed up with B-Dub forming the group Gorilla Milk, they released their debut ―Not For Human Consumption‖ in December 2010. Also be on the lookout for his 7th project "Haitian Dank (Young Haitti staring Lil.Dank) available now on i-Tunes. And also check out his third group "The HeatRocks" where he teams up with PboyWill on this, his 8th project, set to be released in April 2011 and Haitti‘s 9th album, ―Graffiti‖ set to be released in late 2011. This is an artist you need to be aware of~ he's moving faster than seconds and remember where you read it first. -by: Echooooo Young Haitti on MTV Jams 2 Sucker Freestyle: http://www.mtv.com/videos/misc/516601/young-haiti-west-coast-distortion.jhtml? xrs=share_fb

"Young Haitti" youtube channel for all his music video's: http://m.youtube.com/profile?gl=US&client=mvgoogle&hl=en&user=BatinBrowning

"Young Haitti" - 1st Album of 2011. "Haitian Dank". http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/haitian-dank/id425031939

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Freeway Rick Ross By: Todd Davis Ricky Donnell Ross, most commonly referred to as "Freeway" Rick Ross, is definitely no stranger to controversy. During the early 80's, Ross arguably built one of the largest stateside drug empires on record with earnings of at least 1 million dollars a day, only to see it all eventually come crashing down with the culmination of his arrest and 1996 life sentence conviction. RapStar Magazine recently reached out to the 51 year old native Troup, Texas, by way of Southern California, entrepreneur to get a full history lesson on the man, the myth, the living legend himself... Okay, you all set? Yep, I'm ready.

Now for those who don't already know, please tell me who exactly Mr. "Freeway" Ricky Ross is? Well, you know, to try and make a long story short...Started selling drugs when I was about nineteen years old, had some pretty good success at it. Eventually, I was big enough to have a task force named after me (that) went crooked. (They) started planting drugs, stealing money and things of that nature. At one time, I was making close to a million dollars a day, sometimes two or three million dollars a day.

Damn, that's an incredible amount of money! Straight out across the country. Eventually, my supplier set me up for a fall. When I went to court, found out that the government was involved in my drug dealing. Got a life sentence in prison, got that reversed to twenty years and now here we are today at our current stage. And, that's a pretty quick version of a long story.

Let's back up some. How did you originally come to be known as "Freeway" Rick Ross? That was something that was picked up when I was a kid. I stayed on the side of the freeway, and people stuck that name on me. You know, "Rick stay by the freeway!" And, after I started selling drugs, it just started to take on (a) different type of meaning. When the police got a-hold to it, they changed it. The media changed it. So, it got to be that the name strictly associated with drugs, and that wasn't really the case but that's how it ended up.

In '96, you were sentenced to life imprisonment after being convicted of trying to purchase more than 100 kilograms of cocaine from a federal agent. After having said sentence commuted to twenty years, you were eventually released from prison on September 29th 2009. Explain how you were finally able to make the system work in your favor? Well, it was an issue that I had brought to the court's attention, but they ignored (it). So, we had to go to the appeals court and get it reversed. We had to go to the [Southern District of California] 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, and they reversed it to twenty years.

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I completely understand the process, but if you actually brought the issue up in the initial trial, why did it take well over a decade to get everything sorted out?

Let's discuss some of these anticipated projects that you are currently prepping...Specifically, I hear there's both a book and a movie in the works, correct?

Right. They didn't care...Well; they didn't really feel like I knew what I was talking about. They were looking at the fact that I was once illiterate and felt that I was still in that state, so then refused to listen to my argument and issues that I brought up myself.

Right now, I got Mike Sager, who's one of the best writers in the world really. He's phenomenal! He's currently working on my autobiography, fixing it up for me, making it into something really special. And also, we are working on a movie right now. We're in negotiations with MJZ Productions [David Sanderz', who is also producing the film, company] about coming on board, putting up the money for the movie, as well as producing it. So, the movie's in the works. You know, Nick [Cassavetes] wrote a script that's phenomenal. Jamie Foxx read the script, (and) he said that the script was "Off the chain!" So, the movie's definitely coming along. Matter of fact, we just did a thing, me and Snoop, where Snoop basically asked me could he score the movie, as well as do the soundtrack.

While you were locked up and serving your time, a rotund rapper emerged that conveniently adopted your birthright as his own emcee moniker without so much as even asking for your permission. Last June, you filed a copyright infringement lawsuit against said artist in a California Federal Court. Has everything since been resolved with that whole situation? Absolutely not! He refuses to acknowledge that he stole my name, refuses to offer me any monetary value of any sort, and a few times has even insulted me in the media. So, no, that hasn't been resolved. We're in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals right now. The district court threw it out, but we saw from the beginning that it was a conflict of interest with this particular judge because this judge represented Universal Music Group before. So, we thought that it was a conflict of interest because Universal just so happens to be the label that he rap for, and we're also suing them as well. Also...But, the good thing that he did tell us, the judge told us to file in the state. So, not only did I file in the Feds, but I also filed in the state because the case is much stronger in the state and its different issues.

Upon your release, one particular career path that you almost immediately embarked on was one within the music industry. Was this something you'd always wanted to pursue? Or, was it just something that you basically decided to do for now? Well, you know, I was privileged to be there when they started Death Row, so I kinda saw what could happen in the music business. And, I felt that I could do just as good as they did. So, I had always planned on having my hand...And matter of fact, I had been in it even while I was in jail. I discovered Tha Alkaholiks!

I did not even know that! Yeah, I discovered Tha Alkaholiks, and I was instrumental in getting them signed. So, I've always been involved in the music industry slightly. Also, you know back in the early eighties I paid for Anita Baker's first album at Beverly Glen Music?

Really? Wow! I had no idea about that either! Most people don't, because that wasn't something I talked about. I didn't really want people to know that I was involved with that end, you know, trying to protect my interest. Knowing that by me being a drug dealer, then they would attack the assets so you keep your assets secret.

It is also my understanding that you are kin to Dr. Dre's latest protĂŠgĂŠ' Slim da Mobster -- Is there any truth to this? Absolutely! Shout out to him, too! You know he's locked up right now? There's something about whenever we start to make moves, it's like the authorities always try to get on our heels and bring us down. But right now, Slim's currently incarcerated, and we're gonna shoot him a shout out!

That's very unfortunate to hear, but Slim definitely has what it takes to become the next best thing in Hip-Hop! Well, you know, he was raised around music, so he has no choice. It runs through his veins, and he's definitely one of the most talented artists out here. There's quite a few talented artists out there. What I'm finding out about the West Coast right now is that for some reason we have a black eye, and nobody really wants to be bothered with the West Coast labels. Nobody's putting any money behind it, and they kinda like left us, you know, on an island and I guess we're gonna have to swim for the shore! *Ross chuckles*

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Nick Cassavetes [Alpha Dog, The Notebook], Jamie Foxx and Snoop Dogg! Can't get much better than that! Nick wrote it. Nick's gonna direct it...Well, me and Nick's gonna direct it together, 'cause he wants me to co-direct. I've never directed though, so this is gonna be something new for me.

So will the film, more or less, be a cinematic reinterpretation of the book? Well, the thing about movies...You know, movies are not as good as the autobiographies I don't believe, because you can't put as much detail. There's a lot of stuff that's gonna be left out the movie that's in the book. But, I tried to keep it as close to the story as I could, but there were times where they were saying, "Oh, no, this is too long! We can't tell it like this here!" We gotta make it a movie. *Snickers*

If I'm not mistaken, there will also be a documentary soon, too, right? Yeah, you got all the information, huh? *Laughter ensues* I'm doing a documentary right now with Marc Levin. He's out of New York, Blowback Productions. It's coming along. We've been doing a little footage. We want to shoot for about nine more months to show my re -entry to society, and how things are going for me, so definitely that's in the works as well.

That's one thing I haven't even asked you yet...So, how are things going for you? Well, you know, I think right now it's a rough time for not only myself, but for everybody. Money's tight, gasoline is high, and a lot of people are losing their houses, so really this is trying times for everybody. But, I'm okay. I'm used to living in jail with nothing, so to be out here and to have my freedom I couldn't complain about it no matter how bad it got. So, I'm really cool.

Being that you've already been through all that you have, and basically seeing and doing it all from your perspective, do you have any advice for those young people out there who are making similar decisions and using poor judgement? You know, what I've found out about being a drug dealer is that you're really the utmost entrepreneur that it is, because you're managing, you're marketing, you're accounting...You're doing the job of maybe four or five different people. So, if you could do that, you can do anything! And, what I tell all of 'em when I go around the country to speak to these kids in juvenile halls, high schools and universities, is that you have to take that same energy, that same drive, that same determination, and apply it to whatever it is that you're doing. And, if you stick with it, you know, have that pit-bull tenacity of not giving up, things are gonna break for you! And, sometimes I get discouraged, sometimes things are not going as well as I would like it to, and I start second guessing myself and wondering, "Am I making the right decision?" So, we all go through that! But, the most important thing is to stay with your ideas, and don't give up on yourself! Continued on page 20

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Rick Ross Interview Cont. from pg. 19

For the most part, everyone has heard of you largely due to what has been written and said, both good and bad, about you in the press. What would you want these same individuals to know about The Real Rick Ross that hasn't already been covered? You know, you really have to get to know me to find out how I really care about people. I believe that people are the most important thing on the planet, and when you care about people, people care about you. So, one of the most important things that people should know about me is that I really genuinely care about people. Is there anything I left out or just completely forgot to mention? Don't forget my website; freewayenterprise.com. I'm ranked 82,000 in the U.S., (and) I'm growing! They say 6 million people got off Facebook and they joined freewayenterprise.com, so check it out! And, of course, you also have the other site, freewayrick.com, tooâ&#x20AC;Ś Well, that's like my bio. They could go check that out if they just want to find out about me, but freewayenterprise.com is more for the people, and it's what the people say. We put up people's blogs, their music, their videos and freeway rick is just my stuff. And finally, do you have any message(s) for the readers of RapStar? Yeah, tell 'em to send me their videos and their music. I need an artist. I need a hot artist right now immediately! I got a couple of companies on the line, but I need somebody special. How then would "they" get that information directly over to you? They could send it to P.O. Box 11173, Carson, California, 90749. And also, they can email me at: freewayenterprise.com, too! We at RapStar Magazine certainly appreciate you taking the time to speak with us today. We wish you continued success and good luck in all your future endeavors! Thanks for the interview

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Eazy-E defined the epitome of gangsta rap. The Compton businessman released albums from revolutionary rap groups N.W.A and Bone Thugs-n-Harmony on his own Ruthless Records and solidified the black hat-black sunglasses gangster look for generations of rap fans. So when the music mogul died in 1995, a major link was broken in the West Coast rap scene musical heritage. Thanks to Lil Eazy-E, Eazy-E’s oldest son, the resurrection of the West Coast rap is upon us. On his explosive debut album, The Prince of Compton, 21-year-old Lil Eazy-E revives gangsta rap by delivering a searing collection of bone-crushing songs about the streets of his infamous hometown. He also gives listeners an intimate look into the life and death of his groundbreaking father. “I'm speaking on issues that every Eazy-E fan wants to know”, explains Lil Eazy-E, who grew up in the same Compton house and in the same Compton streets in which his father was raised. What does he think of his father’s life? Lil Eazy-E continues. What does he think about the death of his father? How does he live? “A lot of people probably think that I lived in Riverside, Northridge or in the Valley somewhere. They didn't know that I was born and raised in the same house as my father, the oldest of nine kids. We were a l l together. We were a big family. I lived the same life my father lived. I’m representing that and giving it to you on “The Prince of Compton”. Growing up as the oldest son of Eazy-E, Lil Eazy-E virtually retraced his father’s steps. Like his father, Lil Eazy-E was raised by Eazy-E’s mother. L i l Eazy-E also turned to gangbanging as a child and later developed his business and rap skills. With a keen artistic vision, a phenomenal debut album, a budding record company and a fledgling roster of talented rappers, Lil Eazy-E is poised to become the West Coasts rap kingpin, just as his father did nearly 20 years ago. “I want to start an empire”, he says. “The whole of N.W.A. Ent. represents the whole legacy. Everything that I do represents the legacy of my father from this point on. It’s real big to me because its a movement of pushing my father’s legacy. It means a lot to me. “We’re going to stay strong and push it, just like Ruthless was back in the day”. Lil Eazy E http://twitter.com/#!/rapstarmagazine

M-Dash Talks Vallejo By Andrea N. Jones ―Vallejo Means Vallejo,‖ is the latest album dropped by rap artist M-Dash, a Vallejo, CA native. It was not a planned release. He ran into some cool DJ‘s, Mix Bullies, of www.mixbullies.com. Maybe they ran into him, as the story goes. In any case, they were interested in dropping some music with M-Dash, as he has acquired quite a following since his music debut in 1999. Recently DJ Red Rocks of Mix Bullies, being from Orange County, CA, several hundred miles south of Vallejo, asked M-Dash what ―Vallejo‖ meant. In a knee-jerk manner, M-Dash simply spat out, ―I don‘t know, man. Vallejo means Vallejo.‖ The phrase became the name of M-Dash‘s third solo project. ―Vallejo Means Vallejo‖ is a simple title to represent V-Town, the city northeast of San Francisco and Oakland that has spawned so many great talents in black music. Sly Stone, John Lee Hooker, E-40, B-Legit, Mac Dre and Mac Mall all hail from there. ―Vallejo Means Vallejo‖ delivers the hard left coast street Hip Hop that M-Dash fans love to bump. M-Dash is a master of a commanding vocal style which he lays over robust, melodic beats that demand attention from the listener, if not full on gyrations. He is always the hero and the audience he is there to save from the mendacity of everyday life. M-Dash grew up listening to old school Too Short, Mac Dre and E-40. ―They just highly influenced me to start writing lyrics at a young age, when I was knee high,‖ says MDash. ―I was a cat that loved music,‖ he recalls. ―Every time I got money, I‘d go to the record store and buy records, back then it was records. Back then when it was about Kool Moe Dee and LL Cool J. Music just had a big influence in my life.‖ M-Dash started his own record label, Platinum Bound Entertainment, at the same time he came into his own as an artist. ―It‘s called Platinum Bound because I always felt that we were bound to be platinum,‖ he says with a chuckle. Going

platinum in the music business means an artist has sold one million copies. ―I was simple with it and just stuck with it and it‘s been a good ride.‖ He speaks on his music and controversial lyrics that touch on street life: ―For the most part, I try to make ‗feel good‘ music,‖ he explains. ―Then I try to give them something to think about too.‖ He aims to deliver cautionary tales in his songs. ―I‘m giving them a side of things that they haven‘t experienced, that they don‘t want to experience either as far as drama in the ‗hood or violence,‖ says M-Dash. ―I don‘t really do it to celebrate it, I do it to talk about it, because I‘ve been through it and seen it.‖ M-Dash grew up with a very strong sense of family. His uncle Louis McCall was an influential part of M-Dash‘s family. It also so happened that his Uncle Louis was a Vallejo boy made good who formed the classic ‗70s-‗80s funk and R&B band Con Funk Shun. Lil Wayne recently sampled Con Funk Shun‘s ―Honey Wild‖ on his 2009 release ―Kush‖ off ―The Carter III- Deluxe Edition.‖ M-Dash met Mac Dre around the age of 10. Mac Dre was about 5 years his senior. ―Dre had a big influence on me rapping. I would slap Dre all day,‖ remembers M-Dash. His cousin, Big Dant, today an owner of Thizz Entertainment, a group known for taking the Bay Area Hyphy Movement global, used to run with Mac Dre. ―[Big Dant] would bring home the underground tapes no one had and I‘d knock them.‖ Both his Uncle Louis and Mac Dre taught him how to stay motivated to grind in the music business. ―Those two cats are the reason why I keep it going,‖ he says. M-Dash‘s work ethic has not gone unnoticed. Showcase Magazine tagged M-Dash one of the hardest working rappers in the Bay Area. M-Dash is well aware of the chilly climate in Hip Hop artists are experiencing with declining sales in recent years. ―It‘s not a good thing,‖ he comments. ―But that‘s why cats have to go harder these days.‖ According to M-Dash, many rap artists in the Bay saw the cold front on the horizon. ―A few years ago quite a few [rappers] in the Bay talked,‖ states MDash. ―We knew this was going to happen. Basically it is ‗only the strong survive.‘‖

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He speaks of the follies of many rappers. ―So many cats these days will, for a hot minute, drop albums and won‘t promote their stuff,‖ explains M-Dash. ―They won‘t market it. Those are the cats that are falling by the wayside. You can‘t just put your album in the store and expect it to sell. You couldn‘t do it before; you really can‘t do it now.‖ He emphasizes that with all of the bootlegging and digital downloading going on, artist are losing profits. He is emphatic that this is a situation artists can overcome, if they‘re smart. ―Artists have to be more strategic about how we go about branding ourselves with shows and clothing lines to bring a stream of money,‖ he says. He‘s learned over the past 12 years that the rap game can be cut-throat and political in the field of so many egos. ―The cold part is that it gets frustrating, but I do it for the love of the music. I‘m not one to complain. I just keep pushing and doing me,‖ says M-Dash with a satisfied grin. ―Vallejo Means Vallejo‖ is being offered as a free download on www.mixbullies.com and is now available on iTunes and Rhapsody. It contains 18 knocking tracks and features K.O.B., Tilt, Prohoezak, Lee Majors, Husalah (of Mob Figaz) and a special R. Kelly remix. The project‘s producers are Remy Remaq, Tatem 1 and XL Middleton. M-Dash says the album is a lot about having fun and being confident without being cocky. The track ―Lookin At Me‖ stands out to him as a personal favorite as lately he has felt the probing eye of gossiping people who, he says, persistently stay in his business. M-Dash‘s next project, ―Grown Folks‘ Music,‖ has been much anticipated by fans and is soon to be released. ―There are songs on there that are extremely deep,‖ he says. ―People will be able to relate to ‗Grown Folks‘ Music.‘ This album is more ‗home,‘ more soul. A lot about real life stuff.‖ You can follow M-Dash on Twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/mdash707 and like him at http://www.facebook.com/mdash707 . Videos for numerous tracks, along with ―Lookin At Me,‖ are available at http://www.youtube.com/mdash707 .

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PICTURES COURTESY OF: Steve Vaccariello

Ice-T: The Real O.G.

In more recent years, Ice-T has released eight additional albums, both as a soloist and with his Rock crew Body Count. He continues to act and can currently be seen playing the role of Detective Odafin "Fin" Tutuola on the longrunning Police Drama series Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. In 2004, Ice married swimsuit model Nicole Austin, a.k.a. CoCo. The pair, a media favorite and one of Hip-Hop‘s most beloved celebrity couples, is often featured in tabloids and can regularly be seen on a variety of gossip shows.

By Todd Davis

Multi-platinum recording artist, reputable thespian, and budding author are just a few of the many hats worn so very well by one Mr. Tracy Lauren Marrow, more famously known to his fans around the globe as Ice "The Motherf!@#in‘ Godfather of West Coast Gangsta Rap" T. Born in Newark, New Jersey, the now legendary HipHop icon relocated to his aunt‘s home in South Central Los Angeles' Crenshaw district shortly after, sadly, losing both his parents to heart disease as a young child. Ice later attended Crenshaw High, where he would soon become obsessed with Rap. However, after leaving high school, the aspiring emcee went on to join the U.S. Army. Rapping, at least for the time being, would have to wait. It would be following his release from the armed forces that Ice would realign himself with his original passion and begin his storied ascent into music. Although his 1983 single, ―The Coldest Rap,‖ is widely considered to be the first notable West Coast HipHop record, it was actually his classic, ‖6 ‗N The Mornin‘,‖ that helped Ice land his first recording contract; the MC signed on with Sire Records. Shortly thereafter, his goldcertified '87 solo debut, Rhyme Pays, dropped, and as the age old saying goes, the rest is history! From that moment on, Ice, along with his musical brethren—DJ Evil E, DJ Aladdin, and producer Afrika Islam—took the industry by storm.

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1991 saw the release of OG: Original Gangster, a pivotal project in Ice‘s career—it's still regarded as one of the most definitive Hip-Hop albums of all time. It was on this particular effort that "Skillet," an early nickname affectionately given to him by his diehards, first introduced his Heavy Metal outfit, Body Count. The highly controversial group would later become embroiled in a national media frenzy over the infamous track ―Cop Killer." This was an episode in the recent history of music censorship perhaps rivaled only by the firestorm that engulfed Miami Rap collective 2 Live Crew several years earlier. For Ice-T, '91 also brought success in Hollywood, as the rapper was cast opposite Wesley Snipes in the widely successful Urban Shoot ‗Em Up Drama New Jack City. Delivering a stellar performance, Ice has since been tapped to appear and star in dozens of other films.

His latest body of work, Gangsta Rap, garnered more attention f o r i t s controversial cover art— depicting him and his wife lying on a bed fully nude—than for the actual material itself. It was not only a commercial failure but also heavily

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panned by critics. "[I was] never disappointed, because it was a dope album. I've never rated music by sales, because we all know that some of the WACKEST shit sells the most records," Ice states matter-of-factly. "Fortunately for me, I don't live off of money made from music anymore. Now, it's just fun for me. I actually posted my whole album on my site for free!" Despite a few release date setbacks, namely because of an overwhelming workload, Ice is still planning to drop his ninth solo LP, tentatively titled The Hood Manual, very soon. "I'm always in the studio with somebody. I blazed a track with M.O.P., and it's fire! I [also] got tracks with Kool Moe Dee. Right now, I'm sitting on [a bunch of] unheard songs. I'll put ‗em out soon, probably for free, too. F*ck it!" Ice says loudly. "I also finished a project with Black Silver from Analog Brothers. It's called Black Ice. We've got Too $hort and Tash from Tha Alkaholiks [on there]. It's dope! I named my new project The Hood Manual because my homie told me that that‘s what all my albums are: hood manuals, instructions to the game!"

Law & Order: S.V.U., now in its twelfth season, has also provided Ice-T with a steady acting gig since October 2000, but as of late, unfortunately, he hasn't been as active as far as the silver screen is concerned. "Law & Order was a blessing. Who would have ever thought that I would be playing a cop on TV for the last [ten plus] years?" Ice asks, chuckling. ―Once I started acting, I realized they like to cast street smart people as cops. Me playing a gangster is kinda cliché. The show and people are great. Everyone loves the show, so it's kind of like a dream job. It pays great, and I still have time to hit the studio." Ice is slated to appear in the upcoming 3-D Hip-Hop Horror film, Shady Talez, produced by and starring Eminem. A semi-autobiographical Documentary, The Art of Rap, is in the works; it focuses on lyricism, and Ice hopes it will ultimately help in 'reformatting the game.' He's currently filming season two of his gritty A&E Reality series, The Peacemaker, a Docu-Drama that chronicles truces amongst warring gangs. Ice-T's longstanding career in entertainment has continually managed to transcend time, with his unique brand of Hip-Hop remaining as popular today as it was when he first started out over 28 long years ago. "West Coast Hip-Hop comes from a small tree: NWA and who they became, and The Syndicate and who they became. [Originally,] West Coast HipHop was based on the L.A. streets, gangs, girls, and cars; [it was] very hardcore. I never thought or wanted to be mainstream. My music has NEVER been in any rotation on radio anywhere on earth. That‘s how I make it intentionally...West Coast Gangsta shit!" Cont. on page 26

How will The Hood Manual measure up to Ice-T's vast catalog of music? "I never change," the 53-year-old clarifies. "You should be able to sit down with a glass of wine and ANY Iceberg CD and improve your hustle. My records are not for dancing. They are for close analysis by players." The self-proclaimed "Iceberg," who just put out his second literary work, Ice: A Memoir of Gangster Life and Redemption -from South Central to Hollywood, a follow-up to '94's The Ice Opinion: Who Gives a Fuck?, also owns and operates his own burgeoning imprint. "Final Level is the new shit! It's where The Syndicate [Records] and Coroner [Records] ended up. The Final Level! We're doing movies, TV production, music, everything," he mentions excitedly.

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Ice-t Cont. from page 25

On his personal relationship with friend and fellow rapper the late, great Tupac Shakur, Ice, in full storyteller mode, reminisces, "Pac was not from L.A., and was getting involved with the L.A. gangs. I knew these niggas. I tried to tell Pac to stay clear of that scene. He was entranced by the lifestyle and wouldn't listen. These cats will hug you with one hand and cut your throat with the other. No matter what he thought, he was not from the set and could never be. You get put on when you‘re 15 and from that hood, not when you‘re in your 20s and a rapper. I spoke to him about the East/West beef, I wasn't with it. He was kinda upset with me because I wasn't down with his movements. I loved Pac. He was young, amped, and made some bad moves that ended up costing him his life—R.I.P.!" Ice-T has a new Reality show, Ice Loves Coco, which debuted in June on the E! network. The show is about Ice and his wife as she continues in her career. Ice and Coco have been described as "a very traditional couple, wrapped in a very nontraditional package," ―Desi/Lucy meet[s] Ozzy/Sharon." Ice, a major gamer, is also voicing the character of Griffin in the upcoming third-person shooter Gears of War 3, slated for release in September. "Life is the ultimate game. You play against the world and your biggest opponent...yourself! Philosophy is how you equate life through your own personal experiences, not books or things you believe but don't know why, like religions. Hey, this could go on forever. The trick is to determine who is doing the thinking: you or your ego?" Ice concludes with more great advice: "Don't put all of your apples in one basket! I've just tried so many things. If you‘re tired of me rappin‘, I'm rockin.‘ If you‘re sick of me rockin‘, I'm acting. You hate me acting, I'm producing. You hate that? I'm developing hotels. Oh yeah, don't forget, [my wife,] CoCo, she‘s [also] making bank!"

Ice-T

Our mission at 120 Fifteen Entertainment & Productions is to build a foundation and home for tomorrow's upcoming artists. We want to be recognized and ranked as an elite recording company amongst some of the best in the industry today, and by doing so we will provide only the best quality of music, (artists/ producers) services, and products to the music consumer. www.reverbnation.com/label/120fifteenentproductions www.twitter.com/weR120fifteen http://www.facebook.com/120FifteenEntertainmentandProductions

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DINERRO “The Boss” SELDOM HAS AN ARTIST ENTERED THE RAP WORLD WITH MORE POWERFUL FORCE FOR PROMISE THAN THE HIP HOP PRIDE OF THE BAY AREA, DINERRO THE BOSS. HITTING THR RAP WORLD WITH HIS HIT SINGLE ―SHINNIN‖, WHICH HAS BEEN PLAYED ON FM 106.1 KMEL. HIS FLAVOR FOR KEEPING IT REAL AND OFF THE HOOK BEATS, HAVE HIT THE RAP WORLD LIKE HURRICANE KATRINA. DINERRO‘S RAP LYRICS ARE AMAZING AND IMPRESSIVE. WHAT MAKE THIS ALBUM (―CASH RULES EVERYTHING AROUND ME‖), SO GENUINE IS HIS ABILITY TO MAKE IS LISTENERS NOT ONLY HEAR AND GROOVE TO THE BEATS, BUT IDENTIFY WITH THEM ALSO. THIS ATTRIBUTE WAS NATURED BY HIS RELATIONSHIP WITH TUPAC SHAKUR AND ASKARI X. HE APPEARED ON TUPAC‘S RECORD (TRAPPED), FOR THAT HE RECEIVED A PLATINIUM PLAQUE. DINERRO THE BOSS ACCQUIRED HIS NAME FROM HIS BAY AREA STATUS IN NOT ONLY RAP, BUT BUSINESS ALSO, HE IS AN ENTREPRENEUR AS CEO OF SUCCESS ENTERTAINMENT, CLOTHING STORE OWNER AND MANY OTHER VENTURES ALSO FROM HIS FAVIORTE ACTOR ROBERT DINERRO. ―SHINING‖, ANOTHER HIT FROM THIS ALBUM, REFELCTS HIS FINESS AND ULTIMATE BOSS SWAGG OF ULTIMATE PROPORTION. UNLIKE MOST OTHERS HE REPRESENTS THE BAY AREA WITH THE UTMOST RESPECT FOR HIGH STANDARDS AND FLAIR. TO HEAR HIM IS TO SEE THE BAY FOR ITS MAGNIFICENT ATTRIBUTES AND PLACE FOR THE DISCOVERY OF SUPERSTAR TALENT. BORN IN THE NORTH BAY, DINERRO‘S UNDERGROUND TALENTS HAS CAUSED MUCH DISTURBANCE AND CAUSE TO BRING HIGH STANDARDS BACK TO THE BAY AREA RAP GAME. HE IS TRULY AN UNDERGROUND VIP DESTINED TO KEEP RISING TO THE TOP.

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over the years, like Flatbroke Entertainment, which was a label we started right after we left Death Row, (and) where we successfully dropped a compilation called Return of the West. And also, launched sixteen more groups in the industry who are mostly still doing things in the industry. After the release of Damn Near Dead, off the new WIDEawake/Death Row, we will be dropping our new album titled Hostile Environment off our new label, Tha Payroll Entertainment on September 11th 2011, and celebrate the death of Osama bin Laden and show support to our black President, Barack Obama. What actually prompted you all to take so much damn time off? Well, when we left Death Row and started our own label, Suge was in jail. Even after my last visit with him, he assured me it wouldn‘t be a problem with us leaving. We never had a signed contract for our release, and we was still stuck in a seven year contract with Suge and he didn‘t keep his word. Him and David Kenner filed a lawsuit on our distributor...A straight up bitch move!

O.F.T.B. The Resurrection By: Todd Davis

Originally slated to drop way back in '96, Watts, California, based, then, trio, Operation From The Bottom, are finally giving their long forgotten sophomore gem, Damn Near Dead, a proper release. Over fifteen years removed from that very same era, and the, former, Death Row Records' collective, largely known for their impressive appearances on several popular movie soundtracks; Murder Was The Case, Above the Rim, Gang Related and Gridlock'd, as well as high profile collaborations with the late, great Tupac Shakur, MC Hammer and Top Dogg, to name a few, are definitely back like they never left! RapStar Magazine recently caught up with the fellas, now a duo, to find out what's really been going on with O.F.T.B. ... Welcome Back! First things first, please introduce for me the members of O.F.T.B… O.F.T.B. has two members now on the new projects, Lo MB and Flipside, but on the Damn Near Dead album it‘s three members; Lo MB, Flipside, and Bustop. Now where exactly have you all been? And, what exactly have you all been up to, both personally and professionally, during your lengthy musical hiatus? Well, we‘ve been doing a lot of different things, like taking care of our families first and foremost. Raising our kids the right way, and making sure they don‘t make any of the mistakes we did as kids. We‘ve also been active in our community, doing gang intervention programs and toy drives with different organizations in the community. Just trying to give back to where we came from; Watts, Nickerson Gardens. We still always kept our hands in the industry doing different projects

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You all are finally on the cusp of a musical comeback with this exceedingly overdue, long-shelved second collection, Damn Near Dead -- So why after all these years did you all feel that it was important for this album to finally see the light of day? Because we feel we all was robbed of that time and era. But, even more important, (for) our fans! The world was robbed, because they didn‘t get to see the videos and the tour shows that all came with an O.F.T.B. Death Row album. Does Damn Near Dead pretty much contain all the same recordings from that era? Or, did you all tinker with the project at all? No, it‘s all raw and uncut just like it was in 1996. Earlier you mentioned working on a brand new LP, with all original material, called Hostile Environment -- What all can you reveal and/or divulge about this forthcoming effort? The new LP will show our growth over the years, but still keeping it O.F.T.B.! The album is hot! You can check out some of the samples we have on our new website: www.oftbmusic.com. What prompted you all to even title the record Hostile Environment? Because we come from a hostile environment. But also, everywhere you look now it‘s hostile, from the wars in the world to the courtroom, to the boardrooms...Everybody‘s hostile! You seen old boy throw his shoes at [former President] Bush? How does O.F.T.B. in 2011 differ and/or compare to you all circa '96? Well, a lot has changed since then, and we ain‘t living in the past. We love our history and what we did in the industry, but we‘re here to make more history and create a lot of jobs and opportunities for a lot of people. You all recently went on the record stating that "Suge [Knight] fucked up the whole company," of course referring to the infamous Death Row imprint -- Although there were a lot of rumors and allegations of his shady business dealings and lack of professionalism surrounding the label, how much in fact of what we, the masses, heard was actually true to fact?

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Well, you‘re going to have a lot of lies mixed with the truth. The story speaks for itself. Look at where Suge was and where he‘s at now, and do the math and the aftermath.

And finally, back when you all released your Big Beat debut, Straight Up Watts, O.F.T.B. was a three-man crew -- Whatever happened to Bustop?

Speaking of that specific time in your lives...What do you all remember most about Tha Row? Are there any specific memorable stories/anecdotes that you all would like to share? And, do you all actually keep up with any of the original inmates; Dre, Snoop, Daz, Kurupt, The D.O.C., Rage, Nate, Jewell, Michel'le, RBX, Danny Boy, DJ Quik, Hammer, etcetera?

Bustop left the group to become a psychologist, which he is doing now, but we‘re still in touch. We‘re homies for life! Just another example that you can do whatever you put your mind to. We‘re all proud of each other to come from where we come from and beat all the odds.

Well, we are all still good friends and run into each other every now and then. As for memorable moments, we have a lot, but one is we all went to Cabo, San Lucas [Mexico] and stayed in a villa. It was Nate Dogg, MC Hammer, DJ Quik, Us and Reggie White, all staying in the villa together. The funniest shit happened! We all walked to a spot and seen some ATVs, so we decided to rent them. DJ Quik gave them his credit card, and we roll off on about twenty of them. The cold part is we didn‘t return that day, we rode all day and even rode them to the club. Then, we rolled them back to the villa. Late that night, we heard a knock at the door, it was the police. So, we told Reggie White, who was ex-Compton police, to go talk to them, and they end up taking him to jail. We all laughed, kept smoking weed and popping bottles of Cristal!

You pretty much covered a lot. Good questions!

Is there anything I left out or just plain forgot to mention? Any message for "our" readers? Yeah, keep supporting O.F.T.B. and Tha Payroll! We have a lot more to say, and you can believe it will be all true to life stories. Check us out on the website:oftbmusic.com, and check for the album on WIDEawake/Death Row!

You all eventually either left or got dropped from Death Row -- What really happened with that whole situation of you all finally getting paroled? We left Death Row. We went to visit Suge in St. Louis, and told him we wanted to leave. He said, "Cool," but then later put a cease and desist on our distributor because we never had a signed release. And, as Y‘all know his word wasn‘t shit! What do you all feel has been the ultimate key to your success? God first, persistence, patience, knowing when to go hard and when to be humble...That‘s the key. Tell me about this new company, Tha Payroll Entertainment, that you all are getting ready to launch -What's to be expected from this venture? You can expect good, quality music, dope artists that we‘ve been developing, getting them ready to go in the game and bring home the championship! With artists; like, O.F.T.B., DEVEY2G, LYRICAL FLYNN, BADHABBIT, RICK ROCKZ, L.A.TONY A KENYATTA, LITTLE PJ, YAMBAM and many more. To date, what has been your greatest career moment? We have yet to get to our greatest career moment. The story ain‘t over yet, we still got a lot to do! Looking ahead, say five or even ten years from now, where do you see yourselves? Being rich, successful and humble, helping lots of people with different businesses and, most of all, still being healthy and living, still dropping more shit than a pigeon! As for the immediate future, what's next for O.F.T.B.? Ain't no limit! We plan on doing a lot, and having history that people can look at and say we really made a difference for a lot of people and they can be inspired to be the best they can be. Anything is possible, just don‘t give up!

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As you all already mentioned, this time around you had the good fortune of securing some high profile cameos; Murs & Mistah FAB, Ill Bill & Slaine, Glasses Malone and King Gordy -- How did all of these collabos actually come about? We've been fans of Murs and Mistah F.A.B. for hella long. It was dope to finally do a song together. It's about the Hip-Hop police, people who think Hip-Hop should be controlled and should only be done one way. Murs is the Hip-Hop President who listens to all types of Hip-Hop, and F.A.B. is (a) lyrically underrated emcee from The Bay. It's sick how we all came together to fight the Hip-Hop police with our own twist. This is one of our favorite songs on the CD! We did shows with Ill Bill and Non Phixion back in the day, so we had been knowing Ill Bill for awhile. La Coka signed to Suburban Noize, and we toured together on the Bring Tha Noize Tour in '08. It was just a matter of time before we had to do a song together. They are some heavyweight lyricists from the other side of the country! It's always cool to combine styles and see what happens -- Boston, New York City, and California, all on one track...Uh oh!

Potluck Straight Outta Humboldt! By: Todd Davis Hailing from Humboldt County, known as the "Pot Capital of Northern California," the underground dynamic duo Potluck, comprised of Joshua "UnderRated" Leiderman and 1 Ton, nee' James Kerri, are back with, arguably, their strongest body of work-to-date, Rhymes & Resin. RapStar Magazine recently had the good pleasure of catching up with one/half of the group, UnderRated, to find out exactly what the Prop 215 card carriers have been up to as of late... Rhymes & Resin is the name of the new LP -- Can you explain as to why? We had a contest, and we let the fans pick the name of our CD this time. The guy who ended up winning lives in Australia. It's dope knowing people from all over the world are listening to some stoners from Humboldt. Being that Rhymes & Resin is your third proper release/sixth in your entire catalog, how do you all feel it actually measures up to previous Potluck efforts? We did a lot of songs with other artists in the past like Tech N9ne, E-40, D-12, Tha Luniz, Twiztid, Kottonmouth Kings and lots of others. For this CD, we wanted to come with some new ideas and make songs with people we've never done songs with before. We got together with Murs, Mistah F.A.B., Glasses Malone, King Gordy and Ill Bill and Slaine of La Coka Nostra. This album is the best work we've ever done! We always take pride in learning and getting better on each record. Like all of our records though, it has a little bit of everything on it. Life, love and, of course, Mary Jane! There is definitely something for everybody on this CD.

(King) Gordy is a serious smoker like we are! We met him on the D12 Tour this past year. We kicked it everyday and smoked real big. When we came around to Humboldt, we went to our studio and made some songs together. All three of us on a smoking song had to happen! Glasses Malone represents what is great about Hip-Hop. He made a big name for himself on the underground, and flipped it into a deal with Cash Money Records. When I thought of the concept of the song and how sometimes music just feels like your destiny, I wanted another voice on there. A voice that repped the West from another angle, and Glasses was the perfect fit for the song! From a lyrical stand-point, do you all write individually or collectively? That said, where do you all draw your "pen game" from? We have a formula that we've used for a long time. We pick the beats out and decide what ideas can go to what beats. Then, we come with the hook, and/or figure out what or who should be on the hook. 1 Ton comes up with most of the ideas and hooks, but we always make sure that both of us are feeling every idea the whole way through. After the hook is finished or planned, we go off separately and write our verse(s). When we are finished writing, we go back in the studio and go over each others' verses and figure out the sequencing of the songs. We literally make sure that we like every word that each other is saying. It makes the record a true Potluck record. Let's retrace your musical roots...How did the two of you even come together to form Potluck? We started as deejays. 1 Ton came up to Humboldt County from San Diego. We both went to the same club for a deejay tryout. We were the best deejays there, so we got hired to spin the same club night. From there, we kicked it and eventually started making beats together. Then one day we decided to rap. The rest is history. Coming out of Humboldt County, CA, was it a lot tougher on you all to get yourselves noticed in this fickle world of Hip-Hop?

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There are positives and negatives about being from Humboldt, just like everywhere else. In the beginning, of course, one negative was that we didn't live in a big city and weren't around other people that were heavily involved in the rap game. We had to teach ourselves everything, from making the beats and rapping, to engineering and mixing. It was hard to start from scratch and learn it all ourselves, but this is also how we developed our own unique style. Hip-Hop is everywhere now, it doesn't really matter where you're from. If you combine talent with determination, and a little luck, you can make it happen! Where did the moniker, Potluck, originally derive from? When we first started rapping, there was about ten of us and we were all different races. Jewish, Black, Mexican, Puerto Rican, Native American, etcetera. A "potluck" is a get together where people bring a different food and everyone eats together. Since we were all different races, the name just worked. Also, us being from Humboldt County, California, we are lucky to be from the pot capital of the world, so it has a double meaning. Longevity, what do you all attribute yours to? We've been rapping for a long time now, and it started as a hobby. We didn't think we were going to become rappers as a profession until one day it was. Our longevity has to do with a lot of things, but most of it has to do with focus and a ton of hard work. We've always strived to get better and better at our craft, and give our fans new material that is better than the time before. This is the main reason why Potluck continues to grow! Do you all have other outside aspirations, maybe even completely away from music? 1 Ton wants to own the San Diego Chargers. UnderRated wants to be the best NBA 2K or Live video game player in the world! To date, what exactly has been your biggest Hip-Hop moment? I never thought I would be traveling around the country rapping for a living. I was the smallest, shyest kid in school, and now I'm rocking stages in almost every city in the nation. There were a lot of great times, but the single best moment for me was when we played in New York City at B.B. Kings in '06. I was worried that the fans wouldn't like us because we were from the West Coast...I was wrong! They loved us so much they started chanting our name in between songs so loud we had to stop the show for a couple minutesâ&#x20AC;Ś"Potluck! Potluck! Potluck!" I will never forget that feeling! What's next for Potluck? We are planning a national tour with E-40, and after that a national Potluck headline tour. We always stay busy. If you follow us on Twitter and Facebook, you will see us always doing shows, releasing songs, etcetera...We love Hip-Hop, and work every day at doing something new and better than before. Any message for the readers of RapStar Magazine? Check out the new CD, Potluck Rhymes And Resin, in stores now! It's the best CD we've ever done! Foilow Potluck at: MySpace http://www.myspace.com/potluck Twitter http://twitter.com/#!/potluckmusic Facebook http://www.facebook.com/potluck.music

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consumed with the business of the music industry Professionally, I have kinda redefined myself as in who I am as a rapper, as far as my message I'm trying to send out and how I want CHINGY to be portrayed as a rapper. A lot has been said about me over this break, and I felt like instead of coming back to drama I would just let it pass and come back and let my music speak for itself. Coming off of 2007's Hate It or Love It, were you somewhat upset or disappointed in the overall commercial success of that project? Why do you feel it didn't fare better sales-wise? To be honest, I think a lot of things could have played a role in that album not doing what we thought it would do. It could have been not enough promotion on the label's end, all the way to it could have been better songs on my end. I'm really not finger pointing! Hate it or Love It was the ONLY CD I've made out of the four that wasn't certified, so all in all I'm still blessed and that's still good! I just know that I'm going to work harder to make my next move my best move.

Chingy: For The Fans! By: Todd Davis

Chingy, nee' Howard Bailey, Jr., first started writing rhymes at the tender age of nine, and was actually recording full-length rap songs by that very next year. Originally calling himself H Thugz, the native St. Louis, Missouri, emcee initially began his professional career as one third of local Hip-Hop act, Without Warning. The trio scored a regional hit with their catchy indie single and video, "What's Poppin' Off." Switching his moniker to the more universal sounding, Chingy [a slang-term for money], it wasn't long before his unique sound and style would catch the attention of Ludacris and his manager, Chaka Zulu, who would ultimately sign the, then upstart, lyricist to their Disturbing the Peace label. Chingy almost instantly hit pay dirt with his smash lead entry, "Right Thurr," which peaked in the number two spot on Billboard Magazine's Hot 100 chart, from his double platinum solo debut, Jackpot. Three additional albums and one mix-tape later, and the 31 year old entertainer has a hot new single, "Superhero," featuring label-mate Chris Woodhouse, off his forthcoming fifth collection, No Risk No Reward 13â&#x20AC;Ś First things first...Welcome Back! It's been well over three long years since the listening public last heard from you, so where exactly have you been, both personally and professionally, during this lengthy hiatus? Well, personally, I really just been working on me as a person just appreciating life, and really taking it in on how blessed I've been over my career. Spending time with friends and family that I might not have got a chance to chill with while

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Following that album's release, you were either dropped or opted to get out of your contract with DTP Records -- In your own words, what actually went down? I would say it was a mutual agreement. At the end of the day, you shake hands and agree to disagree. I was disappointed with lack of effort on their part, they were kinda disappointed in sales, and we both kinda felt as though, "Hey, we gave it a shot! The best thing for both parties is to move on." No hard feelings either way on either side. Now you're finally back with your upcoming solo LP, No Risk No Reward 13, on a brand new imprint, Full Dekk Music Group -- Conceptually, what does that title represent? Well, A LOT of attention is being directed to this CD, so let me say this, "THERE WILL BE A CD titled NO RISK NO REWARD 13, but right now there IS NO ALBUM, NO RELEASE DATE, NO NOTHING!" There is only me and my message. I don't want the world to say, "Chingy back with an album!" I want the world to say, "CHINGY'S BACK!" I'm back with way more than an album! I'm back helping kids with the bullying problem with Heroes in the Hallway. I'm back with my charity helping the inner city kids in St. Louis. I'm back just appreciating my fans, 'cause I missed them and I know they missed me! The music is only one aspect of me being back. But, the title just came from learning the hard way that you have to risk stepping out and doing what you haven't done, or getting out of your comfort zone, to really appreciate life or really get all that is in store for you. Life is so much bigger than just your city or state, but you have to get out and experience it. To do that, you have to risk putting more hours in studying for (the) test, instead of partying, you know, or just risk doing what's unpopular to get a better outcome or to feel better about yourself. How does No Risk No Reward 13 either differ and/or compare to previous Chingy efforts? Well, I'm happier this time around! I feel like I'm really sending a message with some of these songs that I'm currently recording. I still have up-tempo party music, but I'm doing a better job of catering to the women on this album. And, I'm really putting everything I have in it just to make sure that the fans who really have stuck with me through it all are satisfied, as well as making good enough music to attract NEW Chingy fans.

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Congrats! The set's lead offering, "Super Hero," has been making quite a bit of a noise lately -- Tell me all about this particular track and how it actually came to fruition? Well, word went out that I was back in the studio and back recording, and a lot of people started to hit me up and show love as far as with music and ideas and just encouragement. So, a friend of mine who is a producer, WYSHMASTER, hit me up like, "I have this track I think you should get with!" I heard it and really liked it, even though it was a style I really haven't tried before. I couldn't let the chance pass to come out with a new me, a new message, and a new sound! Longevity, what do you feel has been the ultimate key to yours? There's only one answer to this question (and) that's the fans! In this field of work, fans are what enables you to have a job. The only way to last is to build and keep fans. That's another force driving me to wanna do this for them. They haven't given up on me. There's no way I can give up on them! Do you have any additional/outside aspirations, maybe even completely outside of entertainment altogether? As far as music-wise period, yes! But, for this particular project, NO! The driving force is this really: I've had four CD's, two certified platinum, one certified gold, and one not certified. Everyone acts as if I'm done, because one CD didn't meet expectations. I wanna show the world and send the message, that when people count you out or say it's over, you can't do this or you can't do that or can't reach this or can't reach that, YES YOU CAN! If you put your all into it, and give it your best, I believe it will all work together on your behalf. I love my fans too much to just leave on that note. Looking ahead, say five or even ten years from now, where do you see yourself? I see myself two or three more albums older! *Chingy laughs* As well as a gateway for other young artists to have a chance at what they love. I'm going to start putting artists out on the label Full Dekk. As for the immediate future, what's next for Chingy? Finding more and more ways to interact with all my fans, just trying to get closer to them and let people really get to know me now. And, flooding the radio, internet, television screen with as much Chingy music as possible! *More laughter* Is there anything I left out or just plain forgot to mention? Nah, I think we covered everything worth talking about. Any message for the readers of RapStar Magazine? Thanks for all the support! Keep dreaming, they do come true! Keep GOD first and be blessed! CHINGALING signing off!

Chingy Links: Website http://www.fulldekkmusicgroup.com MySpace http://www.myspace.com/chingy Twitter http://twitter.com/chingyjackpot Facebook http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000879631303

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Success, define yours? Networking and dedication. That's all it takes. But, the way my mom raised me is my key to success. Do you have any future aspirations? Definitely! I'm getting more and more interest in movies. I feel the same way about movies as I do about music. I'm writing a few scripts and in Hollywood now networking and trying to wiggle my way in. Haha! PACKS the motion picture coming soon! Also, plan on opening a restaurant for sure. How do you view the current climate of Hip-Hop music? And, where does the West fit into it all?

BERNER

“Can't Knock The Hustle” By: Todd Davis Hate him or love him, but the one thing that definitely can not be denied is the S.F. Bay Area spitter's ultimate grind. Mixing tales of gritty street narratives along with hardcore trunk rattlin' boom-baps, and that, in a nutshell, pretty much sums up exactly what can be expected every time Berner drops another always solid heater. Case in point, his guest heavy new LP, The White Album - Let's just go on ahead and check in with the man himself… April 2011 saw the release of your fourth solo outing, The White Album -- Why'd you opt on that particular title? I just felt it was classic, everything about it was dope. The title just came natural after listening back to (the track) "Anymore." How do you feel that The White Album measures up to previous Berner releases? It's similar as far as production and some subject matter, but I felt like I grew a lil more as an artist and went in a lil deeper on a few records. Also, during the recording of the album my mom, who was my biggest supporter and best friend, was passing away from stomach cancer. I'm sure that had a lot to do with the way the album was put together. On the LP, you managed to put together a few high profile collaborations; most notably Big Mike, Wiz Khalifa and Big K.R.I.T., from outside regions -- How were you actually able to pull this feat off?

All I can say about that is I find myself buying old albums on iTunes. I don't really listen to much new stuff. The West Coast has always had great music and always will. We just need our radio stations behind us. Let's retrace your musical roots...When did music first enter into your life? Wow! This gotta be the weirdest answer ever...But, I was living in Arizona at the time, I was at some fucked up last resort to finish high school type shit, and some dude name Wicked Wizard comes up to me (and) asked if I rapped? I said, "No." He tells me I should, and makes me freestyle...Haha! Then, he convinced me to buy his old ass karaoke set which let you record on tape and his mic. He used the money to upgrade to a 4 track...He might of played me! Haha! But, that's where it all started. I would do anything to hear those tapes... Where do you hail from? So, growing up there, whose music were you a big fan of? San Francisco, California! GLP, San Quinn, JT the Bigga Figga, Messy Marv, Equipto , Cellski , Yukmouth , Mob Figaz , C-Bo...You know? All the Bay! Shit was on fire when I was growing up! Describe for me your sound and style? The last of a dying bread...Reality rap...D-Boy shit. Where did the moniker Berner originally derive from? Graffiti! The city streets were covered with the name Berner way before the music. Projecting, where do you see yourself in a five to ten year time span? I would like to see myself where Master P is. He owns his own catalog, did a few movies, and got some huge biz still going on. My movies will be twenty times better than his! Haha! But, that's who I look up to.

I just travel a lot meeting people, and knowing how to carry a conversation will get you far. I also really wanted to show the different variety of artists we work with and are down with what were doing.

As for the immediate future, what's next for Berner?

Lyrically, where do you actually draw your inspiration from? At first it was just for fun...I did a lot of crazy shit in my life, so that alone is inspiration, but more than anything, a lot of albums that come out now just lack good production, packaging and music. It motivates me to provide that.

Any parting words?

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Berner & Lucky Luciano album, Fed Ex solo, 20 Lights my solo, and Packs the motion picture!

I'm just getting started! I'm more focused than ever! Albums will keep getting bigger and better! And, these movies will be amazing! I've seen a lot...

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Now that that's outta the way, let's hop right into this current label situation with T.I.'s Grand Hustle imprint -- How did this whole thing even come to fruition? I own and am an artist on Grind Time Official. Tip and Jason Geter have the ability to help me grow as an artist, and help my label, G.T.O., become a stronger brand. Besides being friends, it just made sense. It‘s Grind Time/Grand Hustle, Suckas! Following the permanent shelving of your second solo body of work, Ghetto Extraordinary, you went on to release a succession of underground records, most notably the I Pledge Allegiance to the Grind series, so is this brand new album your "official" sophomore follow-up? My next album is Just My Next Album...Doper than the last, and more Dope-ness coming soon after! You titled the LP PL3DGE, and although that obviously is keeping with the ongoing theme, still tell me what prompted you to call the record this? Shorter is simpler. How does PL3DGE measure up to other Killer Mike selections? Or, how do you feel it either differs and/ or compares to those other releases? PL3DGE...My best work to date! The Pledge series have been my legacy, and has made me a more complete emcee. Each album I have dropped have been better than the last. I intend on doing that till I retire.

Killer Mike a.k.a. Mike Bigga American Dream By: Todd Davis Over eight years removed from his critically lauded debut, Monster, and ATL's own, Michael "Killer Mike" Render, is back with arguably his most wellrounded album-to-date, Pl3dge. The more-than impressive fifteen track opus was initially introduced back in December with the set's T.I. assisted lead offering, "Ready Set Go." RapStar Magazine recently caught up with the 36 year old wordsmith in the lab, where he was simultaneously working on two highly anticipated projects, his next solo CD, R.A.P. (Rebellious African People) Music, as well as a still untitled collective effort with both Big Boi and newcomer Pill... First things first, should I actually refer to you as Mike Bigga or Killer Mike? And, just curious, what prompted the name change in the first place? Killer or Bigga is fine. I changed the name simply to get out of my own way. In some cases the name Killer kept me from doing some real positive things in the community, and I wanted to change that. I have no issues however, so I respond to both.

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Production-wise, who did you get a chance to work with this go 'round? No I.D., Tha Bizness, Smiff & Cash (G.T.O. in-house producers), my deejay ADS, Sweatbox, The Beat Bullies, Raz "Beat Billionaire," Flying Lotus and a few more. Are there any special guest/cameo appearances? Special guests include; Tip, Big Boi, Jeezy, Twista, Gucci [Mane], Rock D the Legend and I hope Janelle Monae, 'cause I love her! [Ed.Note: Janelle Monae did not make the final tracklisting.] Do you have a specific favorite song or song(s)? If so, why that/those particular one(s)? "That‘s Life II (Too)" because it shows I will forever be on that Speak truth to Power shit! "Ric Flair," it is like something from [Jay Z's] The Blueprint times three, with some south seasonings...I still cannot believe it‘s me some times! It‘s Bigga! I wish the Tunnel was still in N.Y.C., so I could premiere this song there. It is beyond banging! "Go Out on the Town," featuring Young Jeezy -- Killer Mike and Jeezy...World been waiting on this shit! "American Dream" is the answer to [Langston] Hughes' question, ―What Happens to a Dream Deferred?‖

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Let's retrace your musical roots...When did you first become interested in music? And, how did it all actually begin for Mr. Michael Render? My mommy was a 16 year old girl when she had me. All sixteen year old girls do is listen to music *Mike chuckles* My mom played Philly Soul and Stax records, my grandparents played Blues and Gospel...Which I love...My dad played Rock and Funk. All that, along with Ms. Bishop, a tough as nails Choral teacher at my old high school, drilled the arts and music in me. Growing up in Atlanta, GA, whose music were you a big fan of? I was (a) fan of Kilo [Ali], [Hitman] Sammy Sam, Ghetto Mafia, The Hard Boys, Outkast and Goodie Mob...Actually I still am. Initially, how did you manage to hook up with Big Boi and the Dungeon Family? And, ultimately what caused you all to permanently part ways? I was introduced to Big Boi by Silo of The Beat Bullies. I was blessed to become D.F. by Big Boi's co-sign. Our biggest reason for parting ways was my own ambition. I could have and should have been more temperate in my actions. I have grown through that experience, and Big Boi and I have since made amends and are in (the) studio recording together -- Salute My Big Brother!

In 5 to 10 years, I will be a very successful business person within and outside of the music biz. As for the immediate future, what's next for Mike Bigga? Touring is my immediate future. You mentioned earlier finally working things out with Big Boi... Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;m in the studio with Big Boi at Stankonia (right now), while heâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s rapping like a fool in the booth! Beef is temporary, Fam is forever! Any message for our readers? To the readers, support the GRIND! We support you! Killer Mike Links: MySpace http://www.myspace.com/grindtimeonline Twitter http://twitter.com/#!/mike_bigga Facebook http://www.facebook.com/mikebigga

Longevity, what do you attribute yours to? I attribute my longevity to the GRIND! I also exist in a time when rappers shy away from topics I tackle head on, and I think that will keep me relevant for awhile to come. Do you have any additional outside aspirations, maybe even completely away from music? I know you've already been dabbling some in the acting world... I wanna act, voice-over, sing , tap, rap...Whatever keeps me out a job or the trap! *Mike busts out laughing* On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of Hip-Hop? And, even more specifically, Down/Dirty South rap? Yes, I am happy with Hip-Hop! South got the best rappers on the planet right now to be specific! Pun intended! *More laughter ensues* Me, Tip, Wayne, [Andre] 3000, J. Cole, Big K.R.I.T., Bun B, [Ricky] Rozay, Pill, Cyhi (Da) Prynce, Yelawolf, Dustin Prestige...Well, the list goes on! To date, what has been your biggest Hip-Hop moment? My biggest Hip-Hop moment has yet to come. I have went gold, won a Grammy, toured the world, but imagined all that at 9 years old. Now, I have new goals and my biggest moment has yet to come! Meeting Scarface and Cube are really special to me doe. Looking ahead, say 5 or even 10 years from now, where do you see yourself?

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ASKARI X Born Ricky Murdock, Jr. in the 70's, hip-hop Artist Ansar El Muhammad so called Askari X is a legend in the making. He was given the name Askari X at age 7 by his notorius uncle Junior Berry. Growing up in an East Oakland neighborhood, Ansar El Muhammad socalled Askari X was exposed daily to the urban disadvantage afflicting most Black families today. Influenced by Public Enemy and Scarface, at the early age of 8, Askari recalls his first rhymes being compliments to his elder sister as she rapped to the beats of UTFO. He began to write his own rhymes which he used in competition at local talent shows. Drugs claimed whole families and communities during the 80's and Askari X lived in an area well known for drug sales. One day, while playing with friends in his neighborhood, Askari X was arrested by Oakland Police, falsely accused of a crime and placed in Juvenile Hall, where he began reading about Civil Rights Activists and the Autobiography of Malcom X and where Askari X states, "My revolutionary side was born." Having developed an interest in Justice for oppressed people, his lyrics and activities took on a political message of revival, resistance and overcoming. With the mentorship of MC

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Pooh's mother, Betsy, Askari X began to train with the Uhuru Movement, learning firsthand more of the plight of Black people and darker nations worldwide and gaining more insight into his own struggles. He versed with Rappers, Pooh Man, Ant Banks, Richie Rich, MC Ant and The Gov dropping verses on the albums and performing in Northern California shows. Askari X went to live with his father in North Carolina at age 14, where he worked almost daily in his father's studio; further developing his style, recording and performing locally, his songs. Ansar El Muhammad so called Askari X returned to California to complete his first official solo album, "WARD OF THE STATE", as a Righteous

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Black Guerilla (RBG) with now platinum producer, Geno Blacknell; his fellow Ansar El Muhammad brothers and sisters. Topping the Billboard Charts in 1992, the legend of ASKARI X took root in the hearts and minds of fans ranging in age from 5 to 99 years young and his hit single "Ward of the State" marked forever a place for Ansar El Muhammad so called Askari X in Hip-Hop history. Before his first album would drop, Askari X was housed within the halls of the California Youth Authority (CYA). He considers the three years there as 'training time' and used some of the time to pen his next album which he recorded in contract with Slow Motion Records in 1995. Circumstances beyond his control halted the distribution, promotion and sales at 15,000 copies. Ansar El Muhammad so-called Askari X comments on the creation of his second album, "Message to the Black Man" as a manifestation of everything he experienced during that time. In his own words he comments: "It was spiritual, revolutionary, cultural and Master "J"Funkish to thee degree of Thee Creator Master Plan. That's where it was!" In the studio between 1995 and 2000, Ansar socalled Askari X collaborated with Bay Area Artists Dru Down, the Delinquents, M1 of dead prez, and s o n gw r i t e r / p l a t i n u m producer Dwayne Wiggins of Tony, Toni, Tone to name a few. In 2000, he partnered with comrade 'J.R.', Minister of Information for the P O C C a n d Photojournalist for the SF Bay View

Newspaper, touring California and a few other states within the U.S. He contracted with Success Entertainment in 2001 to record his third album, "The Return of Askari X aka Rickey Murdock", which was set to release in 2002, illustrating his versatility as an artist and his multi-faceted character appearing as his alter-ego 'Ricky Murdock'. Already pressed up, with 3,500 copies in circulation, the songs from the album touch on the raw street culture and Resistive presence of Revolutionary Rebel Askari X all the while promoting conscious revolution in what would otherwise be considered 'gangsta rap'. Accompanied on the album by his comrades, The Ansar El Muhammad socalled RBG's, together they communicated the message of 'Black Pride, 'Cultural Freedom', and 'Afro-centrism' - offering a direct listening contrast to the empty 'blingbling' messages coming from other rappers at the time. Due to unforseeable circumstances, the contract was dissolved before the album's official release. After another four year sit down in the judicial system, Askari X returns in 2007 equipped with lyrics to produce four to five albums; reaching beyond his firsts to give fans and listeners yet another aspect of his vocal talent. He has already recorded lyrics, songs, and hooks with several California talents, such as Ras Ceylon and Tajai of Hieroglyphics, Yukmouth, DJ Assassin, JT The Bigga Figga, Life or Def First Lady Tequila, J Diggs, Surgeon General, J Moe of Unda Surveillance, San Quinn, Lumumba Waqil of the Lacey Boys and RBG's, Messy Marv, Commander Kueleza X, platinum producers Dwayne Wiggins, Gino Blacknell, Sean T, Thomas McCree, Charlie 'O', and Dot Matrix and Tha Mekanix to name a few. Keep your ears and eyes open for his coming releases. Sa Ja Da La Hu!

Askari X & Erykah Badu

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Images are courtesy of Cheryl Fox

Snoop Dogg: Canine Contradictions By Todd Davis When Calvin "Snoop Doggy Dogg" Broadus, Jr., first stepped onto the scene way back in April of 1992, it was apparent that Hip-Hop had just found its brightest new star. People loved this gangly Long Beach rapper, who couldn't have weighed much more than a buck o' five, with his laid-back, slow flow style of delivery. Snoop was an integral factor in helping make his mentor Dr. Dre's premiere solo track, "Deep Cover" (from the soundtrack of the same name), the classic hit song that it still is today. Who could ever forget that sinister-sounding chorus, "Yeah, and you don't stop ('cause it's 1-8-7 on an undercover cop)"? From there, Snoop would go on to unleash his monumental debut, Doggystyle, in November '93. It spawned three chart-topping singles: "Who Am I (What's My Name)?", "Gin and Juice," and "Doggy Dogg World." The globally renowned multiplatinum set, still his highestselling LP to date, eventually garnered sales of over eight million units worldwide. Doggystyle is largely considered to be one of the greatest HipHop albums of all time.

Although Doggystyle was a phenomenal commercial success, the next few years would prove by far the most difficult for the D-O-Double G. Even before his underwhelming sophomore collection, Tha Doggfather, arrived, Snoop had been formally charged and later acquitted of murder; Dr. Dre had permanently left the label that he built from the ground up, having founded Aftermath Entertainment, and the East versus West Coast rivalry had reached an all-time high. This rivalry culminated in the Images are courtesy of Che still-unsolved tragic drive-by shooting death of Rap star Tupac Shakur, along with the incarceration of Suge Knight, due to a parole violation conviction that took place during the same fateful night at the Mike Tyson-Bruce Seldon fight in Las Vegas, NV.

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With Tha Row suddenly falling on hard times due to problems within its internal structure, Tha Doggfather would be his second and final outing for the imprint. Snoop dropped the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Doggyâ&#x20AC;? from his name and resurfaced with 1998's Da Game Is to Be Sold, Not to Be Told, this time recording under Master P's reputable No Limit brand. With the abandonment of his signature Left Coast sound and style, the heavily Southern Hip-Hop-infused project was considered a major commercial disappointment, with the majority of fans and critics dubbing it the worst album of his entire career. His next effort, No Limit-

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Top Dogg, fared a lot better in comparison, and even more importantly, it saw the long-overdue reunification of Snoop and D-R-E. The G-Funk-heavy The Last Meal, his true return to form musically-speaking, would be his last offering under the No Limit umbrella. Although Hip-Hop has always been his primary focus, the self-proclaimed "Snoop Scorsese" eventually caught the acting bug. He first appeared in his own '94 short film, Murder Was the Case, chronicling the fictional death and resurrection of Doggy Dogg. After Murder Was the Case, Snoop had numerous gigs in television, direct-to-DVD releases, and on the silver screen. Now, here is where things can get a little confusing. Somewhere along the line, the now 39-year-old Libra with an extreme affinity for that "sticky icky" lost his way; he no longer had his vast street appeal. Doggy Fizzle Televizzle, anyone? However, while juggling music, commercials, TV, movies, and multiple endorsement deals, the avid Pittsburgh Steelers fanatic has managed to straddle the fence of relevancy. Although, truth be told, Snoop has become a bit of a caricature of his former emcee-self. There's a whole dichotomy between Snoop circa the early '90s and Rapstar Doggy Dogg who presently has the entire entertainment world on lock. Long gone is the underground Rap hero, who, as one third of 213, started out rhyming alongside Warren G and Nate Dogg [R.I.P.!] in the halls of Long Beach Polytechnic High School. In his place is the family man seen around the globe in all his glory on E!'s Snoop Dogg's Father Hood Reality series.

The married father of three (two boys and a girl) is currently working with Wiz Khalifa on another film, the forthcoming High School, which is being described as a "Stoner -Comedy," an urban Half Baked; he's also at work on its accompanying soundtrack. In '09, EMI Music appointed the Boss Dogg Creative Chairman of their newly-revamped Priority Records, and if that isn't enough, he still owns and operates Doggystyle Records. Whether you hate him or love him—and judging by his ultra popularity these days, it's clearly the latter for most folks— the one thing that can never be denied is Snoop Dogg's contributions to not only Hip-Hop but entertainment in general. If you reflect on just how far he's come since his debut, with all the trials and tribulations he's faced head-on and ultimately overcome, it's obvious that he's a true star. Sure, his career's a juxtaposition in the greatest sense; however, as far as this art form and its culture is concerned, Bigg Snoop Dogg's a true legend and will go down in history as exactly that—no more, no less.

Follow Snoop Dogg @: Website: http://snoopdogg.com/ MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/snoopdogg Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/snoopdogg Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/snoopdogg

He's released six more megasuccessful solo albums: Paid tha Cost to Be da Boss in 2002,R&G (Rhythm & Gangsta): The Masterpiece a little under two years later, '06's Tha Blue Carpet Treatment, Ego Trippin' in 2008, and Malice n Wonderland, as well as h i s m o s t r e c e n t , Doggumentary (originally titled Doggystyle 2: Tha Doggumentary), which dropped this eryl Fox past March 29th. And there's no sign that he's slowing down anytime soon. Over the course of his nearly two-decades-long career, Tha Dogg's amassed a multitude of awards and accolades, though no Grammy yet, despite fourteen nominations. If he gets a Grammy, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and an induction into The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, then it'll be safe to say that Snoop Dogg has seen and done it all.

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"REEK DADDY tha Instigator," a.k.a. Mariko Nash, was born August 26th 1969 in Vallejo, CA, in the North Vallejo subdivision of Country Club Crest: his home turf. He recognized his talent at an early age, and was eager to make his mark on the industry. At 13, he began to make his own demos with very limited equipment available to him. He would not let that deter him, and he began to perform at the Omega Boys Club in Vallejo. Word quickly spread of his talent, and he began to be a popular fixture in the underground rap society. He was known for his freestyle skills whenever he was called out to do "battle," and seldom lost. By his own admission, he was waylaid by the streets of his hometown, but he realized that the streets were not going to help him achieve his dream. So, by utilizing the intelligence he possessed and the determination to succeed, he graduated from People's High School in Vallejo. Upon graduation, Reek Daddy moved himself, his girlfriend and then-4 month old son, "Lil Reek," to Sacramento. Reek provided for his family by doing odd jobs, basically anything he could do to get his hustle on and stay in the "game."He sold anything he could sell, from homemade "Reek Daddy" cassette tapes to whatever would line his pockets with money. Reek Daddy was well aware of the adage, "It's not what you know, but who you know!" So, he took notice that there were other artists, even artists from Vallejo, that had record deals. Some of these artists promised him record deals if he would rap with them. Reek Daddy realized this was the type of exposure needed to get his name out further than the Bay Area, so he began to be heard on several albums, starting with Dubee "a.k.a. Suga Wolf Pimp,â&#x20AC;&#x2013; who had been signed to Atlantic Records in 1996. Reek Daddy was also featured on Mac Dre's "Rompilation II," "Stupid Doo-Doo Dumb," "Cutthroat Committee," "Mac Dammit Man & Friends", just to name a few. Now as a seasoned recording artist and CEO of N.Y.O.B. Records, Reek is putting a dent in the growing Northern California rap scene by signing new artists, producing, engineering, and lacing the New Rap Generation with invaluable knowledge.

Follow "REEK DADDY tha Instigator" at: Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/cutthoatnigga Facebook:

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Myspace:

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Youtube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Rt0W3Sj35M

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MAC DRE DAY 2011 SANTA CRUZ BY: COACH ALI THE COACH‟S CORNER 4 a.m. The phone rings it‘s my folks Matt from A.G.C. Photo‘s, ‖Coach you ready?‖ ―I'll be there in 45min.‖ About an hr Matt shows up and my son and I are ready to go. Matt is a huge Tech 9 fan so he said ―we going to slap the 6 & 7‘s album on the way‖, I hadn't heard it yet so I was wit it. I can‘t say we finish the album because we got ―blurpt‖, yeah the California Hwy Patrol got us doing 90 mph. It‘s something about Tech 9 and driving, I wouldn‘t recommend it unless you and can afford the speeding ticket. Now Techs new album is a SLAPPER full of energy like you would expect when it comes to Tech 9. 10 a.m. The park is a nice beach property with a redwood setting. The Baseball games goin on, your typical All American Saturday, not to be funny, but my folks, Matt turns and says, ―Man they ain't no black people??‖ ―WTF‖ ―Are you sure where in the right place?‖ I‘m like ―Yeah!‖ According to the MapQuest & GPS we are in the right spot. I am on the line with DJ A2DAT of Supaman Promotions he says he is ten minutes away, so we went on an mission looking for Black n Mild‘s and Backwoods after four liquor stores we head back to the park.

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I hoped out the ride with my camera in hand and ready to shoot everybody, but first, I stopped for a cigarette & hear comes Smokey The Bear himself, let‘s just say that I felt like a police magnet. So after he informs me I can only smoke on the street across from the park I knew it was going to be the longest day on the earth! Music bumping people start showing up, but I guess because Smokey The Bear & The 3 Lil Pigs was on some zero smoking and drinking policy, folks just seemed to be on edge & uptight, as the day went on I was not sure how this was gonna turn out? I mean a Mac Dre Day without Blezzy‘s n Heem, just don‘t seem right!! I look up and see Sav, Shigady Da PlayBoy, Boss Hogg, Baygeen, and the Crest Creepaz In The Building Off top. But fans are still looking like they‘re in a lunch room, the food is served, but they‘re scared to eat? I never seen any thing that before. Then J.Diggs walks into the park like yeee. Now body‘s started moving. J.Diggs cut‘s threw the nervousness of fans like a hot knife through butter. Now people seemed ready to party. The Crest Creepaz blessed the stage with Boss Hogg, Baygeen, Shigady Da PlayBoy with special guest Willie Joe, Doe Ray Me along with many other artists who payed their respect & tribute to the Late Great Mac Dre.

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There were people from Sacramento, Fresno, even all the way from L.A. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. The Thizz Nation was in full effect. Special guest appearances from Coolio Da Unda Dogg, Livewire‘s Philthy Rich, The HoodStarz, & AP-9. It was a Bay Area All Star Event. Just as the day seem to wind down J.Diggs blessed the stage with his Anti Snitch campaign performing songs like ―Don‘t Spill It‖, Akting Ghetto, Hood, and his latest Dis Record on Snoop Dogg‘s new artist Mack Shawn.

In this photo THE DRE DAY CROWD THIZZLE DANCE

DUNA better known as Baby Mac Dre a.k.a. Crack Baby, pulls up in a BENTLEY SPUR, all Louis Vuittoned out, he address‘s the crowd with his new official handle ―Mac Duna‖. Soon after he performed his new song ―Staying On my Toes‖ from his new double disc album titled DUNA as ―The Mac‖ Enough Of Dis Shit‖. Scheduled to be released on July 5th 2011, which happens to be the late great MAC DRE‘S Birthday, a tribute to the THIZZLE MAN. At the end of the day the THIZZNATION did what they came to do. In my MAC DRE VOICE ―Get the party started‖.....

In this photo COOLIO DA UNDA DOGG & SHIGADY DA PLAYBOY

COACH ALI THE COACH‘S CORNER ―THIZZ IN PARADISE MAC DRE‖ Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/COACHALI707 Twitter: http://twitter.com/COACHALI707 The Coach‟s Corner Radio Show: www.blogtalkradio.com/entertainmentworldwidenetwork.com Every Thursday 7-9pm PST Call in 619-639-4709 Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/GMT707 Thizz Entertainment Website: http://www.youtube.com/user/ThizzEntertainment

In this photo COOLIO DA UNDA DOGG, J.DIGGS & LIL DIGGS

In this photo BAYGEEN AND COACH ALI

In this photo MAC DUNA (IN BENTLEY SPUR)

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Watch the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f04ZqNA91mE Alt link: http://vimeo.com/23624802 Or download the mp3 here: http://soundcloud.com/swtbrds/clean-ass-whip-full-song

Download Prince Aries' Clean Ass Whip mixtape for free here: http://www.swtbrds.com/princearies Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/princearies Twitter: http://twitter.com/prince_aries Official Site: http://princearies.com

Video: Prince Aries & DaVinci "Clean Ass Whip" Feat. San Quinn And Matt Blaque Aries Nuñez, known to the entertainment world as Prince Aries, has quite a few cards up his sleeve. Though his passion lies in music and his love for DJing, Aries became a fundamental player in the Bay Area's new renaissance - promoter, graphic designer, TV show personality, and producer - with his multimedia background placing him a cut above the rest. When his groundbreaking show, Distortion 2 Static, got picked up by a local Bay Area television station after only two seasons on Public Access, he knew that he had his finger on the pulse of a movement that started simply as a way to share his love for hiphop. Prince Aries recently released his west coast cruising mixtape, Clean Ass Whip, via SWTBRDS. "San Francisco's very own Prince Aries has made one of the finest mixtapes of its type we've EVER heard. No BS." - Southern Hospitality The Video: Following the recent release of his Clean Ass Whip mixtape, Prince Aries is excited to release a brand new video from the tape, this one for the mixtape's title track, "Clean Ass Whip," starring on the song, and making his production debut along with co-producer Big D, is Aries' SWTBRDS label mate DaVinci, who's currently putting the finishing touches on his forthcoming EP and LP, Feast Or Famine, and The MOEna Lisa. The tape is largely a collection of West Coast classics, and while "Clean Ass Whip" serves as one of the mixtape's new exclusives, you'll be hard pressed to find a song on the project – or anywhere, for that matter – that fits such a textbook definition for riding music. All the way down to the first sampled note of the beat, the track begs to be played out of car speakers, windows down, on a nice spring day, and director Marcus Ubungen doesn't disappoint, featuring DaVinci and SF legend San Quinn, as well as chorus crooner Matt Blaque, alongside a classic Chevy Chevelle and sleek Corvette as they ride through the city showing off some of San Francisco's finer sights. "It's one of those good ol' cruising songs that the West Coast is known for," remarks Aries. "Basically, just hop in your whip, cruise around, and play this song. Lo."

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Video: Neek The Exotic & Large Professor – Behind The Scenes Of "Still On The Hustle" Though their career paths have always intertwined, Neek the Exotic and Large Professor‟s Still on the Hustle marks the first true collaboration in both legends‘ long, eclectic oeuvre. Large Professor earned his place in the pantheon of hip-hop heavyweights by founding Main Source and producing songs for Nas's Illmatic and Kool G Rap's Wanted Dead or Alive. It wasn't until he joined forces with Neek on 1992's White Men Can't Jump soundtrack that both artists were launched into the global spotlight. The remainder of the 90's and 2000's saw the two producer/MC's cementing their legacy in collaborations with equally big name artists, such as Pete Rock, Busta Rhymes, The X-Ecutioners, and Mobb Deep. Still on the Hustle, a culmination of ten years in utero, stands testament to the rich history, personal battles, and against-all-odds accomplishments that mark both men‘s road to recording this soon-tobe classic album. The Video: Neek the Exotic & Large Professor are continuing to roll out more goodies as the anticipation builds for their forthcoming full-length album, Still On The Hustle, dropping May 17th on Fat Beats Records. Following a video of the two speaking on the album last week, the two hip-hop vets, who came up together in Queens, New York, are releasing this behind the scene's look at the making of their recently released music video for "Still On The Hustle." Aside from giving fans a closer look at the video shoot, and continuing to let fans in on new info about the album, the video sheds a lot of light on- the duo's connection to their Flushing, Queens neighborhood, which served as the shoot location for the music video. As Mark Carranceja, director of the video and part of Noisemaker Media, recalled, "Every time we walked around, every block, Neek knew somebody...He knew about 20 people in 5 minutes and I feel like that -

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-kind of connection to the public is really important to show to people." Watch the behind the scenes footage of the music video "Still On The Hustle" here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pOh9CSRG0Fo

Accomplishments aplenty, Kreayshawn has been putting the final touches on her soon-to-be-titled new album, but first comes the release of her latest – and greatest – video, this one for "Gucci Gucci." The song is latest single from her forthcoming album, which will be released this summer and preceded by a mixtape she's currently working on in conjunction with streetwear brand The Hundreds.

Pre-order Neek The Exotic & Large Professor's new album, Still

"Kreayshawn is good and weird." - TheFADER.com

On The Hustle, here:

http://www.fatbeats.com/search?q=Still+On+The+Hustle The iTunes single for "Still On The Hustle" is now available. http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/still-on-the-hustle-single/id432116023

Video: Kreayshawn "Gucci Gucci" A former film student at UC Berkley who's directed videos for the likes of Lil' B and Soulja Boy, and had her work praised by Diplo and others, it wasn't until her sister‘s urging that Kreayshawn picked up the mic. Now, the self-described rapper, DJ, director, swag-assassin, under-cat is one of the fastest rising artists around causing waves with her own debut music video, "Bumpin Bumpin," which, to date, has amassed over 150,000 views on YouTube. Currently, Kreayshawn, who counts everyone from Andy Milonakis to Soulja Boy, Das Racist, and Good Charlotte front man Joel Madden amongst her biggest fans, is putting the final touches on her soon-to-be-titled debut album, which will be released this summer and preceded by a mixtape she'll be releasing in conjunction with streetwear brand The Hundreds.

The production on "Gucci Gucci," courtesy of DJ Two Stacks, drives the song forward, centered around beating drums and a wobbling, warbling synth bass line that plays perfectly underneath Kreayshawn's slight nasal tone and sharp vocal quips. "Gucci, Gucci, Louie, Louie, Fendi, Fendi, Prada/ Basic bitches wear that shit, so I don't even bother," she raps atop a vocal sample ("one big room, full of bad bitches") pulled from her previous single "Bumpin' Bumpin'," a song with over 150,000 YouTube views. And while the video, which was directed by Joseph Zentil of Strange Customs and has garnered over 45,000 views since premiering at TheFADER.com yesterday, is a feel good affair – "The best part was just kicking it, really, acting out on Rodeo Drive," remarks Kreayshawn, who spends time donning pink mouse ears and a nose ring that connects to her ear throughout – there's still a message behind the madness. "The song is about giving girls the power to dress away from the label brands like Gucci and Louie," explains Kreayshawn, who wrote the song after being surrounded by peers who defined themselves by the brands they wore. "It's about being more in-tune with your own style." It's a message that Kreayshawn, more than m o s t , i s q u a l i f i e d t o s h a r e . Watch Kreayshawn's video for "Gucci Gucci" here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6WJFjXtHcy4 Twitter: http://twitter.com/kreayshawn Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/ KREAYSHAWN/116136802394 YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/kreayshawn Tumblr: http://kreayshawn.tumblr.com/

“New Video Puts Focus On Individuality, SelfExpression― The Video: Rapper, director, DJ, swag assassin, under-cat – all of these titles, and more, are mentioned by Kreayshawn when asked to self-describe. And you know what? They're all true. She's a former film student who's shot videos for the likes of Lil' B and had her work recognized by Diplo; she counts everyone from Andy Milonakis to Soulja Boy, Das Racist, and Good Charlotte front man Joel Madden amongst her biggest fans; she's homies with the guys of Odd Future. But more than all of that, she's Kreayshawn, a pint-sized beast of an artist (with enough style and charisma to charm a room the moment she steps through the door), who just so happens to be a tad bit unlike anything you've ever seen or heard before.

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Video: Rapid Ric - "Leanin" feat. A3, Craig G, ESG Video: YONAS - "Shy Kidz" The son of a Ugandan mother and Ethiopian father, YONAS was in tune with music at a very young age. He learned how to play violin at 5 and attended a program at Juilliard while in middle school. Taking a full-time approach to music after receiving his GED, Yonas's very first project, The New Golden Era, released in 2008, earned him a Billboard Songwriting Award for Best Hip Hop/ Rap Song. His next release, the I Am Us EP, received over 50,000 downloads. Backed by his material, the MC began sharing stages with acts such as Pharoahe Monch, Curren$y, and Big K.R.I.T. to name a few. Now, for 2011 and beyond, YONAS' goal with his live shows and official debut, The Proven Theory; is simple, to be a "universal artist." The Video: Coming off of the debut of his new album, The Proven Theory, Bronx, New York emcee YONAS is releasing his latest video, this one for the album's new single "Shy Kidz." It's a dizzying, conceptual video that offers visuals as striking as the song is catchy. Which is to say, very. The song, built around a four-to-the-floor, distorted beat, courtesy of producer Sean Divine, and a chorus that features YONAS' voice heavily effected as he sings, "My mind is a runway lately and you are my runaway," pits YONAS on a quest as he searches, perhaps endlessly, for what it is in the world that will fulfill him. Drawn out in metaphor through the video, which is directed by Nat Prinzi and produced by Better Days Productions, YONAS finds himself surrounded by masked women, continually eluded by what he desires most, the lady in red.

Watch the video for "Shy Kidz" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U5KUfPG9lIs Please post buy links for The Proven Theory: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/the-proventheory/id432404619 Official Site: www.YonasMusic.com MySpace: http://www.MySpace.com/ThisIsYonas Twitter: www.Twitter.com/ItsYonas

A DJ at the age of 15, Rapid Ric moved to Austin Texas from a small boarder town where he soon coined "the mix tape mechanic" and has been DJing ever since. In the area he became the go-to guy if you wanted to get your stuff heard in the hood, as well as internationally. He formed partnerships with artists from across the state â&#x20AC;&#x201C; most notably with Chamillionaire (Ric is his official DJ), Z-Ro, Trae tha Truth, Killa Kyleon, Bun B, Chalie Boy, Paul Wall and more â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and released mixtapes with each and every one of them that not only showcased the growing berth of Texas music, but also his strong DJ skills. Rapid Ric's persistence quickly got him noticed, and then he did what many Texas acts don't, he hit the road. Rapid Ric traveled the world with Chamillionaire's tour, had a stint as Slim Thug's tour DJ, and performed on MTV's TRL. Now in 2011 Rapid Ric is taking it above ground with his official debut full-length release Whut It Dew. The Video: Rapid Ric is back with his latest video, this one for the song, "Leanin," like the majority of the tracks off his debut album, Whut It Dew, the single features a collection of esteemed MCs:A3, ESG, and Craig G. Not only was Ric the mastermind behind "Leanin", but he also decided to get behind the camera for his first stint as a video director. As to be expected for a track titled "Leanin," the video is replete with one of the scene's staples, Styrofoam cups (in this case covered with airbrushed drawings memorializing deceased artists from the area including Pimp C and Big Moe) filled to the brim with Drank. "I'm leaning, leaning like man," goes the chorus. "Baby, I'm so dirty, but I'm riding so clean." Helping to keep the mood light, also, are a few obligatory strip club and car shots, and Rapid Ric, himself, playing the roll of a nerdy pharmacist, who quickly transforms back into his regular DJing self after taking a sip.

Watch the video for "Leanin" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLGrZsMpeo4 Purchase Rapid Ric's new album, Whut It Dew, here: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/whut-it-dew/ id432415571 Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/rapidric MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/rapidric Twitter: http://twitter.com/rapidric Official Site: http://www.whutitdew.com/

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Video: Shady Nate "Gimmie Da Loot" Shady Nate is no stranger to struggle and adversity. Born and raised in West Oakland's Acorn housing projects, Shady Nate learned from a young age to hustle and grind to get anywhere. His rapping career began at the age of five when he started writing his thoughts and daily experiences in a journal. These entries gradually developed into the lyrics that he spits today. In 2004 Shady Nate launched Livewire Records and subsequently recorded and released a full-length mixtape with Nas' tour DJ, Oakland native DJ Fresh. The buzz only got bigger when Nate released The Bofessional, which is regarded as his best mixtape to date. Riding high on his growing popularity, Shady Nate released The Gasman Unleashed in June 2009, and the album was quickly dubbed a west coast classic. His new, album, Still Based On A True Story, dropped July 19th via Clear Label Records. The Video: Shady Nate & DJ Fresh collaborated a few years ago on Based on a True Story, which was loosely formatted in the style of Fresh's long-running and classic Tonight Show series. The project earned both the rapper and DJ/producer high praise and strong sales, and now, the original CD album has been re-packaged and is accompanied by Nate's and Fresh's latest collaborative effort, Still Based On A True Story. For the latest single from Still Based On A True Story, Nate and Fresh are excited to release the video for "Gimmie Da Loot," a song built around DJ Fresh's hazy yet knock-heavy production, blending effect-drenched vocal chops with crisp claps and beating kick drums, along with Shady Nate's smoothly flowing gangsterisms ("I gotta chop' in the drop that shoots from hella far") that come off smoother than ever thanks to Nate's complex, multi-syllable rhyme pattern. Shady Nate's new album, Still Based On A True Story, is available now via Clear Label Records.

Watch the video for "Gimme Da Loot" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r-t2-wYwfF8 Twitter: http://twitter.com/SHADY28NATE http://twitter.com/clearlabel Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php? id=1024939938 MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/shadylivewire Label Site: http://www.clearlabelrecords.com/

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Video: The Niceguys â&#x20AC;&#x201C; "Die Later" The Niceguys epitomize the law of dynamics. They stimulate development and progress, and they also thrive off their own original ideas. The Niceguys' MC, DJ, and Producers consist of four young men by the names of Yves (MC), Candlestick (DJ), Free (Producer), and Christolph (Producer), respectively. Experiencing The Niceguys' chemistry live on stage is when the audience can witness that there is more to the group than meets the ear. The guys' personality and talent, as well as the lyrical content of their music, combine to provide a feel-good atmosphere for whoever is around. Having released The Green Room EP for free download in late 2009, The Niceguys have been quickly garnering attention from writers, bloggers, and tastemakers alike. The Niceguys' debut LP, The Show, is available via 265 PRO/The Pi Group. The Video: The Niceguys released their debut album, The Show, in September of 2010. The album has earned the group accolades aplenty already, and despite being close to finished with their upcoming EP, The James Kelley EP, which will be released this summer, the Houston-based foursome is continuing to feed fans' appetites with new videos from The Show, this latest one being for "Die Later." Along with lead single "Mr. Perfect," "Die Later" is one of the hardest hitting tracks from the LP, replete with grinding, distorted guitars, heavy bass, and beating drums, all of which plays perfect accompaniment to Yves Saint's ever-so-smooth flow and witty vocal quips, as he raps, "The only thing promised on this tilted axis/ Is victory for my Niceguys, death, and taxes.â&#x20AC;&#x2013;

Watch The Niceguys' video for "Die Later" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HNLpYXikAPU Fans of The Niceguys still have a chance to submit their artwork to The James Kelley EP Fan Art Contest. Full details can be found here: http://thenicelook.com/JKEPContest.html In case you missed it, download The Niceguys' debut album, The Show here: http://thenicelook.com/NICE_LOOK.html Twitter: http://twitter.com/theniiceguys Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ TheNiceguysMusic MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/theniiceguys

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Warning! Warning there‘s a disease running rampant in our society, a disease that is as common as the common cold, this particular disease affects the brain and can often be fatal. This disease is contagious and has no barriers of race, gender or creed. It affects children, adolescence and adults without prejudice. If you are unfortunate enough to contract this disease you are subject to be killed, incarcerated, hospitalized, maimed, ostracized, or socially banished by your peers. This disease more than often attacks young people but is not limited to them. Most old people tend to be immune, maybe because of years of experience, recognition or wisdom, but unfortunately some people carry and spread this disease all of their lives!

This disease affects reason, intelligent thinking, foresight, common sense and reserve. We all have had this disease at one time or another in our lives and no one is totally immune. If you have this disease or contract it, there is good news; it is curable and or manageable. It‘s simple, all you have to do is think, contemplate your words, thoughts, actions and decisions. Consider the consequences of everything you do, say or think and you may enjoy a positive, fruitful and rewarding life, free of problems, pain and despair. Life can be a wonderful experience if you choose it to be so! Oh, by the way the disease is called STUPIDITY

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Just food for thought, by Big Red

Don’t Complain or Blame in Vain! I’m a loyal reader of the Rapstar Magazine Opinion page; I find it to be one of the most interesting, diverse, and potentially useful sections of the publication. But, unfortunately I am finally fed up with its content. Most opinions are obviously written by well informed and intelligent people, who are obviously passionate about their issues. I believe if these writers spend a little more time coming up with solutions, suggestions, and or fixes of our social problems, we as a Hip Hop community can resolve much of these problems more effectively. Complaining and Blaming are simply wasted energy, with no real benefit or future profit. Perhaps the Opinion page should be renamed “Vent” which is what most of its contributors seem to be using it for. In an attempt not to be looked upon as a hypocrite, perhaps Rapstar should consider adding a new section to the publication called “Consider this!” or “My Solution!” thus giving our community a more constructive “Suggestion Box!” By Tony James

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What‟s your Opinion? Email us at rapstaropinion@gmail.com

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A rollercoaster read MOGUL will incite speculation as Dean paints a true-to-life portrait of the entertainment business and its many personalities. His larger-than-life characters hint at real life celebrities. The drama reads like the events of today's fast paced headlines. And the sex sizzles off the pages. Dean's debut fiction release centers him as a novelist grounded in the game. Interestingly, amid the excitement, passion and suspense, Dean writes with truth and sincerity that evokes compassion for his characters. He keeps the reader entertained, while at the same time dispelling the many misaligned preconceptions about what one thinks they know about not only the entertainment business, but the world of men who love men.

MOGUL is the explosive factor that ties together the recent rash of real life homosexual media reveals. Society is not as 'straight' as it seems!

Author: Terrance Dean Prepares to Set the Industry On Fire With New Book Release

MOGUL: A Novel New York - On April 4th, music producer and popular New York DJ personality Mister Cee was arrested for sexual lewd acts with a man. On April 17th, "straight" rapper Lil B sent the Hip Hop world into a frenzy when he announced plans to title his upcoming album, "I'm Gay." Then on May 15th, CNN's beloved news anchor, Don Lemon 'came out' and went public revealing he's gay. On June 14th, entertainment industry insider and best-selling author Terrance Dean released his highly anticipated debut novel MOGUL (Atria Books Original Paperback - June 2011; $15), and now these revelations will all make sense. Though fictional, MOGUL goes deep inside Hip Hop to reveal just how rampant homosexuality reigns in an industry that on the surface purports hyper-masculinity as its calling card. MOGUL follows Aaron "Big A.T." Tremble, a young music icon, as he juggles money, fame, women and running a record label, while indulging in a clandestine relationship with his hot superstar artist, the sexy hunk, Tickman. MOGUL gives readers the inner behind-the-scenes moves of a community of down low and gay industry companions, known as 'the family,' who support and propel Big A.T. as Hip Hop's most beloved producer.

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Dean's Hiding In Hip Hop: On the Down Low in the Entertainment Industry from Music to Hollywood (Atria Books - May 2008) tore the lid off the down low culture within the testosterone-driven world of Hip Hop. Uncovering a secret dimension in a world notorious for its larger-than-life masculine swagger, Dean bravely unmasked elements of a prominent gay sub-culture within the confines of Hip Hop. The book was a memoir which freed the author as he came to terms with his own sexuality. Dean has since solidified his stance as a no-holdsbarred gay author. His book, Straight, From Your Gay Best Friend - The Straight Up Truth About Work, Relationships, and Having a Fabulous Life! (Agate Bolden Books - October 2010), and advice column with the same name at www.HelloBeautiful.com, have since endeared him to an audience that recognizes he keeps it real at all costs. On the surface, it may seem sensation-alistic, but his pure intentions for self-liberation, self-love, and self-worth are always right beneath the surface. In fact, his first book, Reclaim Your Power! A 30-Day Guide to Hope, Healing and Inspiration for Men of Color (Random House/Villard - May 2003) laid the foundation for the journey Terrance Dean finds himself traveling with his work. His third book. Visible Lives: Three Stories in Tribute to E. Lynn Harris (Kensington/Dafina Books - May 2010) for his dear friend and mentor, New York Times best-selling celebrated gay author, the late E. Lynn Harris, further showcased his commitment and stance as a writer dedicated to a community that will continue to be heard and acknowledged. "'MOGUL' is a story that I've wanted to tell for a long time, and I'm happy it's finally being told. There are many gay men and women in the entertainment industry who silently work behind the scenes without recognition. As someone who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade, I feel people have a misconstrued and delusional idea of what celebrities lives are like, and what the industry is like," reveals Dean. "I want to invite readers into this world of power, seduction, and fame showing at what costs, and length, a person will go to rise to the top. Besides, I also feel it's important we start a serious conversation and dialogue about homophobia in Hip Hop, and within the Black community.

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We've done so much when it comes to repealing, 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell,' in the military. I feel it's time to repeal the same within the entertainment industry, particularly amongst Black celebrities who are afraid to come out for fear of backlash," adds Dean. "Its no longer about 'hiding in hip hop.' Its time to bring it all out."

MOGUL: A Novel is currently available online, and in bookstores everywhere . Keep up with Terrance Dean at: www.mrterrancedean.com; www.terrancedean.blogspot.com; and on Twitter: @terrancedean.

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trade throughout the '80's and into the '90's. Married to drug kingpen, Jackie Wright, one of the top heroin wholesalers in the city at that time, Wright was privy to a life that on the surface, most would envy. Like Blanco, Wright was respected as a no nonsense woman who stayed on top of the product. At her peak, she was grossing top dollar and living the high life, attending championship fights via private jets, going on European shopping sprees and driving a fleet of customized Mercedes Benzs. She also enjoyed taking cruises to the Bahamas and speed boating in Miami. "With Eyes From Both Sides" however, Wright takes us beneath the surface of the fast lane into the real. The product of a middle working class Black family, Wright attended Catholic school and was a star athlete as a

Former Black Mafia Queen Pen, Thelma Wright, Pens Autobiographical Novel Black Mafia Widow, Thelma Wright Shares Her Story in New Book "With Eyes From Both Sides Living My Life In and Out of the Game" Philadelphia - The words "queen pen" and "boss lady" can conjure up many images. One might think of an icy, cold-blooded gangstress who is heartless about the business at hand. Yet, the sparkling, green eyes belonging to Thelma Wright paint a different picture. Though rumored at one time to be the most powerful and dangerous Black woman in Philadelphia, discreetly running a bi-coastal drug empire that her husband left behind, Wright's green eyes reflect a pensive view. Peering into them, we feel the love, the loss, the pain and the retribution of a mother, a wife now widowed and a yes, even a friend. Simply stated, Thelma Wright was married to the mob ... the Black Mafia to be exact. But nothing is ever that simple. With her poignantly, introspective release of "With Eyes From Both Sides - Living My Life In and Out of the Game" as told to and written by C. Alease, the former boss lady invites us not only into her world, but into her mind, her heart and her soul. The woman, quietly heralded by some as the Black Griselda Blanco, minus the murder, was on the lead track of the notorious Black Mafia, a gang which ran Philly's drug

child. Life was never difficult for her and she came from a stable and loving, two-parent home. Wright's story is not your typical tale of abuse or abandonment. In fact, it was the strength of good parenting and strong family ties that saw her through her darkest days. So how did she end up entangled in one of the Black underworld's most notorious gangs? It was the attraction for men who had achieved financial status and success that was the bait that lured her into the 'game.' Like most inner city communities in an era past, the fast life was the road many initially, well intended Black men traveled to acquire seemingly quick and easy riches. Wright's novel is a ride down memory lane, as we flashback to the tone of those times. Nostalgia colors our remembrance of days long past, as she recalls childhood games on the schoolyard in her elementary years to her high school graduation, her first job and her first boyfriend even. Through her vivid recollections, we gain recognition of the heart behind a woman who loved so hard that her eyes were blinded to the cold reality of truth. In a world cluttered with deceitful dealings, pain and continual loss, Wright closed her inner eyes and saw only a facade of what was real. "There are really roads, highways to this life, with fast lanes and slow lanes and some with banked curves and circles around which we are driven. My story is a warning for women who think that the fast lane is the road less traveled, and therefore the best one to take. It is a cautionary tale for the inquisitive, middle of the road wanderers, who stumble at the fork, wondering what it might be like. But above all, it is a prayer for women all

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over the world who wish to know the truth of the matter," reveals Thelma Wright. "If you are in the 'game,' get out, because it will destroy you." Thelma Wright's "With Eyes From Both Sides - Living My Life In and Out of the Game" is more than your cautionary urban fiction lore. It is the real life drama of a woman who played the game in full and survived to tell about it. But even more so, Thelma Wright is 'everywoman' who has ever loved someone, but had to learn to love herself first and foremost. See what her eyes reveal at http://www.thelmabwright.com/ and purchase "With Eyes From Both Sides - Living My Life In and Out of the Game" there or wherever good books are sold.

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Tia P. is a different kind of artist because her mission is different. She is the voice of her generation and a role model for those who dare to stand out on their own and to have a say in the music they hear and shows and videos they see. Her music and persona is that of a seasoned and experienced entertainer who respects the old school vibe with a wink and nod to the urban R & B and Hip Hop pioneers and legends whose microphone her lyrics now flow from. While still knowing how to produce rocking and danceable beats and write lyrics that embrace the youth culture of today, Tia P. marries the two together effortlessly. Her songs express a day in the life of a teen and the obstacles and/or triumphs that they face. Her music is the future and most importantly it‘s fun and appropriate for everyone.

Teen Artist, Tia P. is Changing the Music Game with Good Music, Encouraging Education and Giving Back to the Community. Inglewood, California has a burgeoning star in their midst and anyone between the ages of ten and twenty five knows its 6X Entertainment recording artist Tia P whose mission is to bring back good positive music and solidify her place as a young educated and positive artist. Tia P. is a music prodigy with a dream of uniting the different genres and generations of music styles and works non-stop to bring that dream to fruition. Born on Father‘s Day, 1983 Tia P. was exposed to music by actual musicians playing instruments in the studio and music flowed from the home constantly. Her father and manager, C. Von, is a noted and respected drummer and producer and her mother Kim, is a singer as well who has recorded and traveled with various artists around the world. Tia P. knew how to put words to sounds and diagram a sentence at the age of four. Following in her father‘s footsteps Tia P. is an accomplished drummer (she plays for two Houses of Worship) and often picks up the sticks and plays at her own live shows. Instilled with the knowledge of the importance of education Tia P. excelled throughout school and graduated with honors in June 2011. Hard work paid off as Tia P. was courted by Belmont University in Nashville, TN, Loyola University, New Orleans and Harvard University. Much to their dismay, she chose Howard University which she will be attending in Fall 2011.

Some entertainers are called triple threats but Tia P. is a quadruple threat in the music industry. A talented musician, songwriter, lyricist and singer, the industry is realizing what her fans have known for a while, good music is good music and the ability to perform for a crowd at any venue and being genuine is what music lovers appreciate. After her February 2011 opening performance for KRS One at the famed Roxy Theater in Los Angeles, KRS officially welcomed Tia to Hip Hop. Further validation came in May 2011 when Tia P. won the International Songwriting Competition (ISC) – Teen Category for her song ―Music is Fundamental‖. Among 15,000 submissions Tia P. was voted the winner by artists Rihann, Tom Petty, Kelly Clarkston, Darryl McDaniels (Run DMC), Robbie Williams and Peter Gabriel to name a few as well as music industry professionals and gives credence to Tia‘s gifts as a songwriter. Tia P. won many prizes but the most important to her is a five week scholarship to the prestigious Berklee School of Music which she will attend in July 2011. Learning and perfecting ones craft is the key to longevity and Tia P. plans be an inspiration to musicians that come after her like those of the great Michael Jackson, Ella Fitzgerald, James Brown and her all-time favorite hip hop group ―A Tribe Called Quest‖. Writing over 720 songs and in high demand to perform live around the country Tia P. balances her education, family and aspirations like a champ. Graduating from high school on June 6, 2011 and a performance for Savannah Feed the Hungry in Georgia on June 10, 2011 gave Tia P. just ten days to rehearse and prepare for a show at the Congo Room for broadcast on the XM Radio Show ―The Foxxhole‖ hosted by Mark Curry on June 20, 2011 which she rocked to a cheering and excited audience. Not one to rest on her laurels, Tia P. is currently rehearsing for a show at the House of Blues, preparing for her music video for her single ―N.O.B.O.D.Y.‖ and back in the studio to record. Her single ―N.O.B.O.D.Y‖ was released on iTunes and Amazon.com on May 10, 2011. ―N.O.B.O.D.Y‖ is an upbeat dance track with a smooth delivery that pays homage to the old school style of exposing the artists‘ own personal prowess on the microphone and confidence that there is no other artist out there like her or doing it the way she can. Using a ―whispering‖ technique and memorable chants ―N.O.B.O.D.Y.‖ is appropriate for radio, dance clubs, school dances and IPods across the globe.

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Adamant about bringing attention to organizations that serve communities, Tia P. supports non-profit organizations and her neighborhood schools as a performer and speaker. She wrote an anthem for Los Angeles entitled ―Anthem 4 LA‖ and wrote and recorded a song to get out the vote in 2008 when she couldn‘t even vote herself. ―Practice what you preach‖ has always been words she lived by. In 2009 Tia P. was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis but instead of letting it discourage or distract her focus it propelled her to keep moving, keep doing and keep reaching. Her management 6X Entertainment is currently organizing a non-profit organization, I Do Care, to provide services for kids with physical and mental health issues. ―I write music because I love being able to express myself on paper. I perform because I love to bring happiness to people who love music and I give back because it is what God mandates us to do‖, explains Tia P. What Tia P. really wants people to know about her and her music is this, everybody is somebody special and that dreams are not dress rehearsals for your life but a road map on how God wants you to live your life. And once you reach that goal dream again and again and again until his plan for you and your gifts have served their purpose. Tia P is changing the game by taking music back from the corporations, the pretenders and the slackers and giving it back to the people. Relying on her management, her family, her band (Shirts & Drawlz) and a firm belief in God, Tia looks forward to the journey her music will take her…she has been preparing her whole life. To learn about Tia P. in her own words visit www.tiaparchman.com. Reach out to Tia on Twitter @I_am_Tia_P and Facebook: TiaParchman

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They Shooting produced by Mr. Payback of Heat Makaz Production about times changing people don't fight they will shoot so beware of what‘s around you it's a street road map a brief warning on the what not to do's over a west coast knocker. Ms. Toi already has a huge fan base and several features on numerous albums and sound tracks, such as Laila Ali‘s Daddy's Little girl Sound Track, Save the Last Dance, The Last Ride, Girlfriends, Ice Cube‘s Next Friday Sound Track, Tapped Out she played Pamela in the movie and Osmosis Jones sound Track. She is currently reading for rolls for some really good scripts we will keep you posted on the progress of her acting career.

Ms. Toi “I Am A Warrior” We‘ve all heard growing up that if you have to use profanity you have no vocabulary. Ms. Toi Production presents lyricist Ms.Toi “I Am A Warrior” captures the essence of hip hop with a dynamic display of vocabulary and content that will blow you away. The first single I Am A Warrior produced by Mike Starr Lab and being played in Canada, Australia and threw out the states is proof lyrically she can hang with the big dogs any day. Ms.Toi has features such artist as Ice Cube on a banger called Green Like That Green also featuring Yuk Mouth and Nyce the future from Nyc. You can get some of that Cali swag from her joint with E40 called Original Gangstas with female vocalist Brittney will definitely keep you moving in the club. A legendary hit called Ladies Run This features Yo-Yo and new vocalist on Ms. Toi Production Chrissy dare anyone to tell them different, she most def. has control on the next chess move on who runs this! This album is full of excitement and worth checking out from the production, to the mixes, The vocals and lyrics Ms.Toi spits on this Warrior projects just about sums up why we thinks she's one of the illest female rappers in the game. Ms.Toi not only keep it business she did a joint called-

Albums and mix tapes available "Not Yo Average Chick" 2007 release Hit single U-Turn video on Youtube.com and available on Itunes.com and rhapsody, Corporate Thug 2010 release on cdbaby.com both indie projects. Mix tape on sosouth.com Hustle Hard Part 2 with Cl'Che' from Houston Texas who's featured on House Wrecker and That Real on Ms.Toi's I Am A Warrior album and several other projects. Also featured in the book Mug shots and was a presenter at the Female Hip Hop Honors in May 2011. This Hip Hop Chick has proven she has what it takes to keep our interest by hitting us time and time again with her deep raspy voice and sexy appeal now we hear the dynamics of her lyrical abilities to captivate the hard heads and sway the average listeners. She presents us with I Am a Warrior needless to say from what her resume looks like she has worked with some of the best but kept it real simple on this project with Multi-Platinum Producer Mr. Payback who contributed the features and most of the tracks. And also Mike of Starr Lab Productions who did the single and has a great track records his self. Ms. Toi wrote some great songs to these producers‘ tracks also White Hot Production who produced the Peace Maker a song written by Ms.Toi for the television series from A&E called The Peace Maker with Malik Spellman. Check out the lyrics she spits on Boss on the Realla sick it's definitely something to bang in your car. Other features on the Warrior album are Too Short, Mr. Tan, Tupac and Lil Wayne. This project serves everyone from the top to the bottom and in between there's not a thing missing from this but your support. Check Ms. Toi out on Facebook Mstoikeon Parham and Twitter MsToiThatReal new album coming soon.

FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/Ms.Toi EMAIL: Flymstoi26@yahoo.com

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Whether the men would prove the article right or wrong, I didn‘t know, but I felt they should have the opportunity to tell their side and open an avenue to dialogue among the sexes. I want the discussion of our personal lives to be discussed amongst ourselves in a meaningful way and not in the media giving one side‖, explains Greeze. Frustrated asks such questions as why are African American men finding love outside of the country, are the issues amongst the sexes too deep to be fixed, are African American women now in competition with Brazilian women as they are with other races...is there really a threat, are the women saying good riddance we don‘t need you or are they fighting for their men?

Documentary film maker Al Greeze Are African American Men Finding Love in Brazil and Abandoning their Communities? New Film Asks the Question and Gets the Real Answers from the Men and Women Documentary film maker Al Greeze and his film "Frustrated" takes in-depth look at relationships in the African -American community through the examination of the sensitive and highly-controversial topic of African-American men traveling to Brazil to pursue women for relationships and the cause and effect of doing so. The thoughts and opinions on sensitive topics such as education, finance and the roles and expectations each has about the other are also discussed including the insinuations that Black men are ―Frustrated‖ with Black women (and vice versa) and are traveling out of the country to find what they are missing at home and some may even say abandoning African American women altogether. Filmed on location in the United States and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Greeze decided to produce Frustrated after reading an Essence Magazine article which gave a one sided account of Black men traveling to Brazil for sex vacations and the addiction of the adulation by Brazilian women is appealing to the men and this was somehow Brazil‘s doing. Greeze wanted to either confirm or deny and reveal the answers from the men and women themselves. Through research, personal accounts and testimonies from the men and the reaction and opinions of the women both in the U.S. and in Brazil, the film unlocks heartfelt emotions to these complex issues. And the answers may not be a surprise to some. ―After reading the Essence article, I felt as a Black man who has traveled to Brazil and many other countries, I was being judged and demoralized because of it. I thought these men should have the opportunity to tell their reasons for going to Brazil.

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―Frustrated‖ has been screened for audiences in NYC, Washington D.C. and Atlanta where both sexes were given a platform to give their honest and personal experiences, thoughts and actions. ―These screening are very interesting to me as a film maker, says Greeze, ―the responses allow me to see that change is possible and it also allows me to see where the frustration on both sides stem from and that is why this film is so important to the preservation of the African American family‖.

Greeze's next film, "Total Cost of Saying I Do", examines the economics of love and marriage. The film will investigate the considerable value that married people place on each other‘s welfare and the conflict of interest between them. The film will examine other forms of marriage including polygynous and polyandrous outside of the United States, the rate of their success and the economics of these of marriages. This film will also look at the economics of marriages, divorce, single people, and the effect it has on society in the United States. As a film maker Greeze is interested in the personal stories that govern complex and emotional relationships and issues and chooses topics to film that society does not like to talk about or even know exist. The African American community has always been shy about talking about what goes on in the community but unless we know what is broken, we won‘t know how to fix it. Greeze‘s ultimate goal is to find ways to heal families and raise strong children together for the next generation and move away from the individualism way of thinking. Frustrated was released on June 27, 2011 on Amzon.com. Please view the trailer at http://greezefilms.com/ and

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Included in this project are artists from the world wide known album series Nationwide Rip Ridaz which is the most recognized album to have ever been put out by various members of the Crip‗s and the Blood‗s such as Duv Mac and Tweety Bird Locc.. Also taking part in this project are Minista Zin Uru from The Temple Of Hip Hop, S Five from Boogie Down Productions, Louie Loc, Shyan Selah, Bad Azz from the Dogg Pound, OG Ran Dogg from the Dogg Pound, Chilly Chill from Da Lench Mob, Redrum from The Damu Ridas, Boss Hogg, Vigalantee, Allfrumtha I from Westside Connection, Bam Solomon, Monsta Ru Deuce, Cisco, Mike Swift from the Phillipines, Thump from Hoo Bangin Records...and many more.

United We Stand There is no Me, or You, just Us….. United We Stand is an effort by Hip Hop that started in October 2010 to bring peace and unity to neighborhoods infected with gang violence. It was initiated by relevant members from both the worldwide known gangs called the Crip‘s and the Blood‘s, who have been at War for many years. Members from each of these gangs came together through Hip Hop to build friendships and an understanding, that it is them who are the only people who can bring real change and peace to their communities. The goal is to educate and spread the Over-standing that Peace & Prosperity was the reason both entities were established. Both the Crip‘s and the Blood‘s were started to bring Protection, Law, and Order to their communities that the local Police, or Federal Government, were unwilling to provide us! At that time it was a very necessary Community Service, and it was only when drugs became involved that the actual ―gangbanging‖ and ―turf wars‖ began, which later spurred the widely known ―US War On Drugs‖. This is why the “United We Stand” project was started and why it is so crucial to assisting this overdue needed change in local community support through Hip Hop Culture.

In this photo taken Oct.,1, 2010, M-Bone of Cali Swag District performs During rehearsals for the BET Hip Hop Awards in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Picture Group, Paul Abell) INGLEWOOD, Calif. — Police say M-Bone of the Southern California rap group Cali Swag District has been killed in a drive-by shooting while sitting in a car outside an Inglewood liquor store. Lt. James Madia says the 22-year-old Inglewood resident, whose real name is Mante Ray Talbert, was sitting in the car shortly after 10:30 p.m. Sunday when another car pulled alongside, and shots rang out. The rapper was struck twice in the head. He slumped over the wheel and died at a hospital. The other car fled.

So recently these various Crip's & Bloods members have begun working with the Temple Of Hip Hop to expose this United We Stand effort to a broader community, and also support 2011 for10 Years with The Hip Hop Declaration Of Peace, by putting together a Full-Length Compilation Album including various songs from artists all around the World, including members from various gangs who have been supporting The Movement.. or looking to start supporting The Movement.

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Rev. Al Sharpton, Marc Lamont Hill and Cleo Manago to Contribute to Historic Discussion at Black Manhood & Sexual Diversity Forum in NYC The Black Men's Xchange National joins forces with the National Action Network and the Malcolm X Grassroots Movement for "I AM A MAN: Black Manhood & Sexual Diversity in the Black Community" Forum New York, NY - From comedian Tracy Morgan's controversial rant to CNN's Don Lemon's coming out' to radio deejay Mister Cee's guilty plea to receiving oral sex from another man in a parked car, and now the historic legalization of same-sex marriage in New York - homosexuality is at the forefront of water cooler conversations these days. It is a particularly hot topic within the Black community, given the social, political and cultural ramifications inherit within this community. Where as in previous generations, in order to escape oppression, some very 'light-skinned' Blacks 'passed as White,' today many same gender loving (SGL) men pass as heterosexual, hiding in plain sight, to escape the pain of being regarded as less than "real men." In response to the brewing controversy around homosexuality and the Black community, the Black Men's Xchange (BMX) National has joined forces with the National Action Network and the Malcolm X Grassroots Movement presented the community forum I AM A MAN: Black Manhood & Sexual Diversity in the Black Community on Saturday, July 16th at 2:00 p.m. at the National Action Network in New York. The National Action Network is located at 106 W. 145th St. (near Lenox Ave.) Black Men's Xchange National is the nation's oldest and largest community-based movement devoted to promoting healthy self-concept and behavior, cultural affirmation and critical consciousness among same gender loving, gay-identifying and bisexual African-descended males and allies. The historic, multi-media event will feature film and video footage, live performances, a panel discussion and community dialogue featuring National Action Network's president, Rev. Al Sharpton, "Our World with Black Enterprise" television host, Dr. Marc Lamont Hill, and Black Men's Xchange National founder & CEO, Cleo Manago. Participants in attendance will chart a collective course for intra-community recognition covering topics on Black male diversity, sexuality, manhood, power and safety. Recalling the signs carried by Memphis sanitation workers at the strike where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated, I AM A MAN is an affirmation of the common struggle of Black men, and a call for the inclusion of the SGL men among the collective. Noting a rash of highly publicized homosexual teen suicides across the country and that the highest incidence of HIV/AIDS in the Black community is still among Black men, most of whom are homosexual and bisexual, Reverend Sharpton cites, "There is absolutely a need to have this discussion." Says Cleo Manago, "For generations, the Black community has been so preoccupied with survival in America, or assimilation, we have rarely stepped out of this to figure ourselves out, or rationally address our perceived differences with each other. This forum is one of those rare opportunities on an essential issue." Black Men's Xchange-NY Co-founder, John-Martin Green insists, "This human rights struggle - for diverse Black men to be fully present, respectfully representing our range - can only be won as we muster our courage as a community to face our fears and end misunderstandings that produce unhealthy behaviors and division among us." Join BMX National and their community partners to jointly build a stronger community, where whether SGL, bisexual or heterosexual, it is safe not to "hide in plain sight" anymore. I AM A MAN: Black Manhood & Sexual Diversity in the Black Community will be a forum dedicated to insuring that all Black people can be respected and affirmed. For more information go to http://www.facebook.com/bmxnational .

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Students displaying exceptional merits will be awarded cash scholarships. The summer camp project started July 11 and runs daily for a month, from 1:00 pm to 5:00 p.m. at Washington Preparatory High School. In addition to acting, vocal, dance and music classes will be held. The program is college preparatory with emphasis on auditioning for film and television as well. Explains Andrews, "I am excited about this project because not only does it give these wonderful kids a chance to perform the work of the great William Shakespeare, but we are providing a much needed vehicle for their creative energy during the summer months!" Students from the Washington Prep production of Romeo and Juliet are congratulated for their efforts at a screening of the Tempest by Shakespeare. Left to right: director of arts, Melanie Andrews; student actor, Curtis Smith; Academy Award winning actress Helen Mirren; student actor Adonis Gillette; student actor Kaylynn Bail and Tony Award winning director of "The Lion King," Julie Taymor.

Washington Preparatory High School Brings Shakespeare To the Hood with Summer Theater Program

Washington Preparatory High School is located at 10860 Denker Avenue in Los Angeles. The school has been acknowledged as an "Arts Banner High School" by the Los Angeles' district Arts Program. There is space for fifty students to attend and enrollment at Washington Preparatory High School is not a requirement. To apply send short letter of interest to Melanie Andrews at hubcityarts@yahoo.com or just come to Washington Prep to fill out application. Andrews can also be reached at (310)766-8296. JKeyz and India at DASH Atlanta before their show fueling with CRUNK!!!

Los Angeles - When Melanie Andrews, the director of arts for Washington Preparatory High School, talks about the performing skills of her students, her commitment and passion is evident. With summer approaching and the waning state of the economy, she notes that many of her students will have nowhere to go. As a native of Los Angeles' inner city herself, she knows first hand that the call of the streets will beckon many of them. But not if she can help it. Andrews launched a free Shakespeare Summer Academy Program on July 11, 2011 that brought Shakespearean theater to the community! Her recent successful production of "Romeo and Juliet," supported by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts at Washington Preparatory High proves that she is definitely on to something. Award winning actor/director Harry Lennix has committed to the program along with dozens of actors from the British Academy of Film and Television Arts who will provide professional mentorships. Additional partners for the program include Alfred Johnson and the World Literary Crusade.

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The Game Takes Flight with David Cash in "City of Angels" Video Release Venice, CA - It's not many newcomers that can step into the arena spitting with the likes of The Game on their debut single or have their mixtape laced with lyrics specifically provided by J. Cole and Pharrell. But David Cash isn't your typical wanna' be artist. The Venice, Cali native on Nu West World Records, is breathing flames into the West Coast rap scene with a style that is infused with heat and fury. His lyrical fire smokes not only the competition, but also any notion that west coast rap is yesterday's news. The City of Angels has birthed a new rap sun, and David Cash is re-birthing the inferno that started it all! With his new video release "City of Angels" Cash serves up a visual reminder of why southern Cali is the envy of the rap music scene nationally. Fully laying claim to the concept that 'Los Angeles is where you wanna' be,' Cash pierces our senses with a soundtrack and scenery that captures the essence of the land of La La, from the streets of South Central to the sunny shores of Venice Beach. Native son, The Game joins him in the video, adding credence to the emergence of this rising artist, alongside American Idolbeauty Asia'h Epperson who lends a sizzling serenade with the song's refrain. Cash turns up the heat with his 15-track strong mixtape release, "In Living Color" featuring J. Cole, Devin the Dude, Nipsey Hussle, Flying Lotus and Pharrell who all join him on the project with personalized, non-sampled submissions. Cash's slow, smoke hazed style entices us with tales of street lore from the bedroom to the beach. On "Curse of Gangsta" he takes us deep into the mind of a man tormented by his choices, then pumps up the volume on "Fame" with rap star Nipsey Hussle. When Cash teams with J. Cole on "Purple Rain" its a mack meets mack sexapade. Then Devin the Dude does what he does best, ad-libbing on "I Like What You Do" while Pharrell graces "Fences" with his one-of-a-kind flow. Venice, California offered Cash a unique perspective of the 'west side.' Often referred to as the 'far west,' Venice Beach inspired him with a melting pot of influences, people and experiences. His more relaxed rhyme style boasts a distinctive variation from the aggressive rhyme patterns of emcees on the "eastside" such as Snoop, Ice Cube, and even The Game, yet his knowledge and recollection of the streets is no less intense. When on the mic, Cash raps raw, honest and real. His rhymes flow with the swagger and introspection of a veteran who has earned his stripes. Expresses Cash, "I am David Cash. My heart swells and subsides to the sounds of my life. My music is an expression of everything around me. It may not always be pretty, but its real. Music is my escape. 'City of Angels' is just a prelude to what I am bringing to this game. Life has a tendency to mix things up and my music is gonna' do the same thing. I want folks to hear me, to feel me, to know me." David Cash will soon prove that he is hardly an artist limited to genres. His next release, "Luv Hate Luv" with Chrisette Michelle, sees him leaving his street jacket behind and exploring new realms. Take flight with the "City of Angels" at http://www.youtube.com/user/NuWestWorld and download "In Living Color" for free at http://www.iamdavidcash.com/ .

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words, he never focused on those skills due to athletic aspirations. Years later, with dreams of the NFL behind him, he finally picked up a pen and began a new future. In his very first Slam competition, Future placed second and missed a tie for first by a mere half point. The response and respect had an immediate effect on him, and a new home was discovered on the stage.

Future ..

. . . is a powerful force in the Spoken Word movement. An accomplished spoken word artist, song writer and actorâ&#x20AC;Ś Future has the power to turn a few simple words into a life-defining statement. Noted for his unparalleled depth, adeptness and agility in imparting knowledge, commentary and humor, Future moves and inspires audiences with his unique delivery, vocal projection, prolific writing skills and social consciousness, all while speaking with the conviction of a general, the intensity of a middle linebacker and the wisdom of a sage.

Future is amassing an impressive collection of accolades, awards and championships including winning the Erotic Poetry Slam at The University of Michigan and being a member of two teams that won the Michigan Intrastate College Team Slam competition, and placing 9th overall in the Independent World Poetry Slam. Future has become one of the most sought-after spoken word artists in the country. After only a few years writing and performing, Future became the Redemption Poetry Slam Champion - Detroit Region, a nationwide poetry slam

A Flint Michigan native, Future was an industrious student and gifted athlete, most notably in football, throughout his time at Flint Public Schools. After graduating from Northern High School, Future attended the University of Michigan where he received his bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in Mass Communications Media. Although he was always very creative with

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contest sponsored by FX Movies. He also was a showcased artist for the BET Pantene Total You Tour in Detroit and Washington, D.C. He shared the stage with the talents of poet Nikki Giovanni, hip-hop pioneer MC Lyte, BET anchor Jacque Reid, Grammywinning gospel recording artist Yolanda Adams and comedienne Myra J. He has toured with The Manhattans, and alongside Ray, Goodman & Brown. Future was invited to open for soul singing sensation Dwele at the famed Southern Theater in Columbus, Ohio, where he shared the stage with fellow artist Eric Roberson. He has performed at the New Hazlet Theater in Pittsburgh with R&B artists, Donnie and Amel Larrieux. He has also performed with Saul Williams and opened for artist such as Common and Slum Villiage.

Future is active member of the Flint and Genesee County communities, where he devotes his time, energy and talent as a member of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. as well as birthing the biggest stage for local talent with the “Future’s lyricist Lounge” showcase.

The amazing power of his words has allowed him the opportunity to be featured on radio from Detroit’s FM 98 WJLB to Nashville’s 92Q. His second album, Future Presents: The 6th Day Phantom Menace, has been played on Flint’s local radio station 94.3 as well as Flint’s local TV station and Detroit’s internet radio station badgals-radio.com. Future has been a performer on the nationwide television show, Spoken, on the Black Family Channel. During his television acting debut, he played the role of Q in a made-for-BET film called “Multitude of Mercies,” where he performed alongside Malcolm-Jamal Warner. Future has also shared the stage with performers such as Silk, Case, Chico DeBarge, Rome, Mighty Sparrow, Lady Calypso, Taalam Acey, Jessica Care Moore-Poole, Sonia Sanchez, Omar Tyree, Sonya Renee, Will “Da Real One” Bell and has recorded with Abiodune of the legendary Last Poets! Continuously developing his craft and the genre by pushing the boundaries artistically and aesthetically, he is laying his own path stage after stage. Being a well-traveled artist, Future, has performed all over the United States, including but not limited to Detroit, Miami, New Orleans, Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Nashville, Columbus, Cleveland, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, New York and Houston.

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Swollen Members: Heavy Thinkers By Todd Davis

"Reflecting back on that album and time period, it is clear to me now that we were 'trying [to] fit a square into a circle.' I was doing twenty 80-milligram Oxycontin a day during the recording process of [2009's LP] Armed to the Teeth. And let's just say my heart and my mind weren't in the right place," Mad Child, one-third of veteran Kelowna, British Columbiabased Hip-Hop collective Swollen Members confesses in an exclusive with Rapstar Magazine. "I was literally a walking zombie at that point in my life, and making a lot of bad decisions,‖ he continues. ―Being intoxicated on a daily basis, I felt the need, at that time, to prove that as an emcee, and as a group, we could do what is considered hot with today's youth. Now that I am myself again, I feel strongly that the best way to make music is to be honest in who you are and make music for yourself first. Of course we care about what the listener thinks, but in order to make our classic signature style, the formula [...] has been to not think about the outside world, and [to] just reach from within and make music for ourselves. Armed to the Teeth still has some great songs on it that I am very proud of, [for] example, 'Certified Dope,' 'Kyla,' 'Funeral March'... But, looking back, I can't see us ever making songs that sound manufactured, like 'Pornstar' or 'Bollywood Chick,' again." Now clean and sober, Mad Child, along with partner-in-rhyme Prevail and producer Rob the Viking, have just returned with their impressive sixth studio collection, Dagger Mouth. For the most part, it's been receiving favorable reviews, with many critics praising it as a return to form for the Canadian Rap trio. "Dagger Mouth f*ckin rules," the 35-year-old revered lyricist announces, cracking himself up. Regaining composure, he adds, "Dagger Mouth, to me, is an instant classic in our library of seven albums. [...] Dagger Mouth has that same dark, raw, abstract, and lyrically potent energy as our first two albums and Black Magic." Unlike their last effort, Armed to the Teeth, which was panned by both fans and critics alike, the new set contains only one cameo: label-mate Saigon. "Saigon happens to be one of my favorite emcees, and Swollen Members was fortunate enough to go on tour with Saigon. Unfortunately, that was when I was officially banned from entering America, so I missed that tour," Mad sighs. ―[...] Saigon is one emcee I was really looking forward on getting to know. I feel like we would've clicked. Prevail and Rob the Viking had nothing but good things to say about him [...]‖

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Over ten long years in the Rap game and Swollen Members are still going strong. Along with Dagger Mouth and an upcoming summer tour, Mad Child and Prevail have other irons in the fire. "Prevail is working on a television show. He has already shot a couple pilots, and they look really dope so far. For me, my goals in life are to become the best emcee that I can possibly be and to re-open Battle Axe Records as a business once again. I am also very driven [by] a brotherhood/ family concept called Battle Axe Warriors. If people are interested in joining our movement, they can sign up at http://www.battleaxewarriors.net," the wordsmith, widely known for his high-pitched, nasally-toned flow, offers up. It's funny, because even though it's been a decadeplus, for four and a half of those years, I was a drooling opiate addict. While I was addicted to pain-killers, I was not very much of an active member of Swollen Members, nor did I work on my craft. Since I have been sober, or what [I] like to call normal, I have been writing every day again like when we started. I feel now that it is my responsibility [...] to make up for lost time. [...] I am eating, breathing, sleeping this culture again and hope to show our friends, fans, and family that we are now moving at a ferocious, rapid rate.‖ ―Monsters in the Closet II will be coming out (soon), and we are hitting the studio [again] in a couple weeks to start our next album,‖ he adds. ―My first solo album, Dope Sick, will be available (in) August . We will no longer be putting out an album per year. I think the [way the] music industry is today, we can put two or three albums out per year and it will make sense in today's market. I plan on doing the same for my solo career." Swollen Members Website http://www.swollenmembers.com/ MySpace http://www.myspace.com/swollenmembers Twitter @swollenmembers, @MadChild57 Facebook http://www.facebook.com/official.swollenmembers

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Phenomenal Radio was established in 2007. Its start began at KSTQ Hot 97.3 ―Lubbock's #1 for Hip-Hop, R&B y Mas" initiating the spot light of underground artists throughout Lubbock, TX and surrounding cities (known as the 806 Movement) which began the first indie spot light hour on a radio station ever in the West Texas region. KSTQ's Music Director at the time, Gilbert Saldana, noticed the consistency and dedication in the then local artist Slate Stone, and decided who better to lead the 806 Movement and gave him a call. Slate Stone, an artist on Phenomenal Entertainment with no prior technical radio experience accepted the offer with no pay, which was the birth of Phenomenal Radio. Over the span of nearly two years Slate Stone, Slim the Phenomenon & DJ Rob C controlled the voice of the region via Phenomenal Radio which aired each Sunday from 7pm-9pm. The persistent marketing of Phenomenal Radio by Slate and Slim launched the ratings of KSTQ Hot 97.3 and made the 806 Movement Show the highest rated, most listened to show on the station. Phenomenal Radio reached listeners from all over the West Texas region covering airwaves of over 300,000+ listeners. KSTQ changed frequencies from 97.3 to 104.3 in 2008 taking on the new slogan "Lubbock's Hottest Hits!" with Phenomenal Radio continuing to be a major factor in its success. After almost two years of Phenomenal Radio, Ramar Communications (the home of KSTQ) decided to obtain the rights to Texas Tech sports from GAP Broadcasting. As a result, Ramar announced via Tech Talk on Fox Talk 950 AM that Hot 104.3 would be changing formats to an all sports station in the summer of 2009. Despite the transition of their station to Tech Talk 104.3, Phenomenal Radio continued their heartfelt push. Phenomenal Radio found a new home on Hobbs, NM radio station KLMA 96.5 and was quickly syndicated beginning in 2009. Once the syndication phased out, Phenomenal Radio made its way to Live365.com generating 1000+ listeners an hour from streams located all over the globe during "The Live Show‖ which led to its hosts obtaining an additional hour for the show which was dubbed ―The 2nd Hour Indie Spot Light" which showcases independent artists from all over the world. Live365.com then opened the door to Phenomenal Radio's current residence at PhenomRadio.com. Phenomenal Radio is an independent, online station that continues to showcase music from all over the world with many more advancements in the works. http://phenomenalradio.blogspot.com/

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Noteworthy achievements include working with GRAMMY nominated singer/songwriter J. Myers, producer Lloyd Richmond (The Platinum Finger/Zoe's Baby Music Publishing), performing at Rasellas Jazz Club, the San Francisco & Vallejo Juneteenth Festivals as well as San Francisco Civic Center, and was reviewed by the Industry Magazine (http://industry-mag.com), April 2010. “Look out for my girl Khela...unbelievable talent..I been in the game for 10yrs.. I know talent when I see it.” Avant (Verve/Universal Records Recording Artist)

She will be adding to her repertoire of growing achievements over the summer of 2011 with a soulful new single, a recently released EPK, pivotal performances at prominent venues, and sharing the marquee with ‗A‘ list artist(s) such as Lenny Williams (former lead singer of Tower of Power) and more. Khela is represented by Velvet Rhythm Entertainment (VRE Music), spearheaded by Paula R. (Prototype, Even Odds, Paris Cimone, Universal Music Group). With mindful guidance and superior business acumen, VRE is crafting and laying the foundation for Khela‘s stellar and successful career as one of the most notable, memorable, and fresh new R&B talents to originate in the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond.

Khela

Links:

“An artist that touches the spirit of all those she comes in contact with.”

http://twitter.com/#!/thekhevocalist http://www.reverbnation.com/khela http://www.facebook.com/thekhevocalist http://www.khelaonline.com/

Being a singer and songwriter, her engaging persona and her captivating vocals readily entice through soulful renditions of masterfully tailored music.

Contact Management : P. Reina http://www.velvetrhythm.com/#!

“This girl, there is something really special about her, really unique, stage presence and personality!” Larry Batiste (GRAMMY Awards Music Director) A native of Northern California, Khela has always been a lover of music. She began moving people‘s hearts while singing in the church choir throughout much of her childhood; it was this ability to capture an audience that earned her the #1 spot at the California State Fair singing competition in 2006. From that point forward, she resolved herself to the pursuit of a career in the music industry. She‘s worked with a myriad of producers, some who are industry notable as Tomcat Productions (Brook Hogan and ―So You Think You Can Dance‖ syndicated television show) and Got Bass Productions (DJ Quik, Lyrics Born) as well as fresh talent P.O.W. Music.

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Photo Credit: Hannibal Matthews Courtesy of Trea Day Manag

MACEO Maceo-GO SIT DOWN…is what this intense talented

Atlanta-breed native told everyone to do back in 2005, and he doesn‘t find it a problem to reiterate it as he continues to compose music that many other artists attempt to fabricate. Maceo Terrance Barnes (May 15, 1987), whom in the industry is referred to only as Maceo, has repetitiously showed his hustle with his music since the tender age of 17. His versatile style and crafty placement of words carries the meaning of all different reflections and interpretations of life, and even he‘ll tell you that he literally lives his music. It either details situations that he‘s personally experienced or a condition that he has witnessed someone else encounter, but never the less it is thoroughly real and impassioned. Maceo‘s unique voice is what captured the attention of listeners in 2005 when he debuted his hit single ―Go Sit Down,‖ which eventually won him a Southern Entertainment Award and was the #1 independent ringtone in the nation that year. He believes that those who have faced similar trials such as he will be able to relate with him greater, and this type of thinking is what led to the mass popularity of his second hit single that same year, ―Nextel Chirp.‖ ―Go Sit Down‖ put Maceo in an entire new arena within the industry, and he was beginning to be noticed as a real savvy lyricist amongst the high executives in the business. He made performances at the Vibe awards and was featured in some of the most prominent magazines such as XXL, Source, Grip, and Rap Fanatic…even gracing the cover of Fadar. He was steadily accomplishing unbelievable achievements, from selling 70, 000 units independently and 57, 000 through Sound Scan to averaging 300 BDS weekly spins of ―Go Sit Down‖ on the radio throughout the state of Georgia. In addition, he even received over 60, 000 music plays, 300,

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Mr. "Go Sit Down" (MAC with "Welcome t 000 views, and 37, 000 friends on MySpace, and he conquered all of these astronomical tasks without ever being featured on television! His life and career was going through the winding roads headed to the top, but instead things quickly took a turn for the worst. Under Big Cat records, his career instantaneously plummeted when one of the other artists on the label at the time was charged with an extreme murder conviction which adversely affected everyone involved with the label. Maceo has, since then, remained consistent in his passion for producing lyrically inclined art and he takes it very seriously. He focuses on his music day and night to work towards regaining his high ranking status amongst the industry CEOs and socialites, but his fans remain loyal and continue to enjoy his delivery and the messages that he expresses throughout his music. ―Whatever I do…I set it on fire,‖ says Maceo…and he meant it. He has and is creating projects that are for everyone while still sending a useful universal message, and he doesn‘t display weakness in any of them. If he doesn‘t feel the strong connection within a song then he will stop directly in the mainstream of doing it and start over, because he feels that to continue it wouldn‘t be being true to himself which ultimately means he isn‘t being true to his audience…and that is what makes him one of the most preeminent prodigies in the game!

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gement & Publicity

CEO) is UP on His Grind to Little Mexico" Marco-With all of the young talent debuting themselves in the music industry today, Marco ―Marco Da Kidd Kid‖ Barnes has muscled his way into the oversaturated market and has brought a unique flair which makes people take notice. Born on May 15, 1987, Marco adapted the personality of being ‗the life of the party‘ ever since he was a child, but he also possessed the characteristic of being very mature for his age. Many people gravitate towards his playful persona and that‘s why it seems so easy for him to accumulate a growing fan base so soon, because he can entertain to the extreme while still sending out a meaningful message, much like the artists that inspire him like Drake and Cassidy…but no one as much as his brother, Maceo Barnes. For Marco, his older brother Maceo was his biggest inspiration, and seeing him succeed and break barriers within the industry as quickly as he did made Marco want to turn his talents in the same direction, because music wasn‘t his first passion. He, instead, was hoping to become a football or basketball player because throughout his younger life he was known as an ―all-around athlete‖ but his passion shifted when he realized he also had a lyrical talent that he wanted to share with the world.

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MARCO Marco ultimately wants to do grander and more exceptional things in life. For now his style and music is designed to reach out to the ladies and the ―streets‖— his main audiences. He feels that he will have reached success once he‘s finally transitioned completely from his current locality to in-depth analysis of the music business itself, graduating from the streets of Atlanta‘s Kirkwood neighborhood entirely and not having to go back….and only bringing the ―hood‘ out when necessary. Marco‘s ultimate goal though is to take over the entire industry and show NO weakness while doing so! See below a few of Maceo‟s accomplishments: · Winning the Southern Entertainment Award for "Go Sit Down" · #1 Independent Ringtone "Go Sit Down" in the Nation--2005 · 70,000 units sold independently ·Features in XXL, Source, Grip, Rap Fanatic, Ozone, Vibe and Billboard ·Articles in local publications throughout Midwest and South ·Cover of Fader Magazine ·Performance at the Vibe Awards, For Sisters Only, Crunkfest in Memphis ·Average 250 BDS weekly spins on radio "Go Sit Down" ·Over 672,000 music plays, 356,000 views, and 33,000 friends on Myspace---ALL OF THIS WITHOUT EVER BEING ON TELEVISION! ―Go Sit Down” Music Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGIQ_PWbuNc

Interview http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uxa2zXxq-ig&NR=1 Links: www.myspace.com/qfmaceo www.facebook.com/maceo.barnes www.94entertainment.tumblr.com www.twitter.com/94entertainment

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Greetings XI! I‘m JayBee! I‘m an A ward Winning Celebrity Barber-Groomer, Image Consultant, Platform Educator and Instructor. I work on all TV, FILM, VIDEO, PRINT, AND THEATRE projects as a Celebrity Groomer. I‘m also a former successful salon owner in Chicago. Thank you for allowing me to share some simple grooming tips with the brothers in the ―Den‖. I truly cherish this opportunity. Topics and Questions concerning male grooming issues!

Hailing from the “Windy City,” Mr. John Bivins, affectionately known as JayBee, is the premiere barber in the worlds of music, sports, television, stage and film. As a professional barber instructor and an award winning platform artist, JayBee has served as R. Kelly’s personal barber as well as the barber of choice for most of Mr. Kelly’s music videos. JayBee has also served as the Key Barber Consultant for the Judge Mathis Show, BET News during the 2008 Presidential Election, Dave E. Talbert’s “First Sunday”, starring Ice Cube and Tracy Morgan, “Of Boys and Men,” starring Angela Basset and Robert Townsend and more recently, Michael Bay’s, “Transformers 3,” starring Shia LaBeouf. In addition to his stage and film credits, since 2006, JayBee serves as the official Team Barber for the Chicago Bears. Throu -ghout the years, JayBee has added numerous credits to his accomplished career which include: HBO, BET, VH1, ESPN and many television commercials. In the world according to JayBee, “being a barber is an art form.”

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RAZOR BUMPS- Razor bumps are a major concern for men for decades. You can razor bumps from improper use of a razor or even sensitive skin to razor shaving. I suggest Bump Patrol. Bump Patrol is a fast acting razor bump treatment that helps heal as well as prevent razor bumps. Bump Patrol has 3 formulas for razor bump treatment. Original, Mild, Maximum strength. Original is widely used and you will see results within the first 48 hours. Mild strength is the original without the alcohol or burn and is recommended for ladies with their waxing. Maximum is for immediate results after the first shave. This product is Dermatologist recommended as well I recommend and represent Bump Patrol as a product spokesman. You can find Bump Patrol in all Walmart Walgreens, and beauty supply house across the country and UK. For razor bump questions call18007078763 in the US. and UK 0.8007839706 or visit www.mmproducts.com . Selecting a professional atmosphere(shop/salon) to be serviced is very important. My recommendation is that the place you choose a place that‘s well recommended for professionalism and great work ethic. As we all know that word of mouth sometimes is the best. This place should or can be a multi-cultural family atmosphere. Therefore you will know that there won‘t be a lot of fussing cussing and fighting. A consultation for your grooming experience is key. Grooming on a bi-weekly basis is the norm for most men but then you have the brothers that have to be shaved every few days as well getting cut weekly for business travel, and appearances. In the winter most brothers let their hair and facial hair grow an extra week before lining or cutting it. Most celebs get groomed every time they have an appearance or event. Tapered Afros and a full mustache and beard are very popular styles during the winter months. Choosing a consistent barber/groomer is important and key to your consistent image. Shampooed and conditioned hair free from oils and product prior to or before your grooming service is vital to a great finished product. By establishing theses simple but vital tips will allow you to be happy with your grooming experience and proud to tell others where you were serviced. I‘m looking forward to really opening up great topics and discussions in our Male Grooming Den! Email all questions, topics, and comments to celebritybarberjaybee@tmail.com

JayBee Celebrity Groomer http://www.facebook.com/RapstarMagazine

John “JayBee” Bivins, III Business: (708) 955-9281, Cell: (708) 473-4294 Celebritybarber01@sprint.blackberry.net supremekutz@yahoo.com •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Seek the Challenging Position of Master Barber/Grooming Consultant A highly talented professional Barber/Groomer with vast experience in providing high level on set grooming services in addition to script consultations. Brilliantly exemplifies his talents in multi ethnic and contemporary hair care fashions.

RonReaco Lee of BET's Let's Stay Together & John "JayBee" Bivins

Education & Professional Affiliations More than 10 years professional experience. • Licensed Master Barber in the states of Illinois Georgia • Completed State of Illinois Barber Instructor licensing program • Immense ability to train others and to plan, assign, and supervise the work of others. • Able to perform under highly accelerated conditions while maintaining a high level of confidentiality and professionalism. • Remarkable ability to meet and exceed all time constraints and guidelines • Uncommon agility and dexterity to acclimate to all working conditions Professional Experience Stage & Screen Of Boys & Men (Feature Film) ~ Robert Townsend, Faizon Love Transformers3 (Feature Film) Dream Works- 2010 Tyrese Gibson, Shia Lebouf First Sunday Press Release (Feature Film) ~ David E. Talbert Brooklyn‘s Finest Press Release (Feature Film) ~ Wesley Snipes, Antoine Fuqua Shelly Garrett‘s Beauty Shop (Stage Play) What you don‘t know can Kill You ~Purposed One Ent. (Stage Play) Mel Jackson, RonReaco Lee John Ruffin‘s All For Love (Stage Play) Johnny Gill, Tank

Devin Hester Chicago Bears & John "JayBee" Bivins

Television Judge Greg Mathis Show (NBC Universal) Joy & Pain Television Pilot (Purposed One Entertainment) 2008 Documentary on President Obama (Carl Seaton) The Line – ATF 2010 (CBS TV Studios) Preachers Kids (TLN) R. Kelly Speaks – (BET News)

Comedic Tours First Amendment – Martin Lawrence Comedy Tour Lafapalooza- Jamie Foxx Comedy Tour P. Diddy‘s King‘s of Comedy Def Comedy Jam- Russell Simmons Whose got Jokes- Bill Bellamy Comic View –BET

Johnny Gil & John "JayBee" Bivins

Music Video Rock Star ~ R. Kelly Featuring Ludacris and Kid Rock Same Girl ~ R. Kelly Featuring Usher Hair braider ~ R. Kelly All of the Above ~ R. Kelly featuring Beanie Segal Beat it Like A Drum- BEN ONE featuring John Blu Professional Highlights

Projects for HBO, ESPN, VH1 ~ BET News Barber Consultant for Political Analyst for the Presidential Election ~ Official Team Barber for the 2006-2007 Chicago Bears Super Bowl Season ~ Recently featured Celebrity Barber in June-July ‗09 Sophisticates Black Hair Magazine ~ 4 time Winner Proud Lady Beauty Show Male Contemporary ~ Runner Up Bonner Bros. Hair Competition ~ Barber Consultant for Luster Hair Care products (S-Curl & Wave Kit Campaign), Nation of Islam Savior‘s Day 2010 (Raheem DeVaughn) Hip Hop 4 Education Clark-Atlanta University- Chrisette Michelle, Rodney Perry, Rick Ross

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JMAL THE SCHOLAR JMAL THE SCHOLAR; the name given to the Detroit rapper by his musical colleagues, takes his title seriously. A long time friend gave the native Detroiter this name because of his lyrical versatility, content, and vocabulary. Inspired by and associated with the word usage of his musical idol Tupac Shakur, JMAL THE SCHOLAR took this compliment to heart and forever strives to embody the true meaning of a revolutionary emcee. Tupac touched the heart of the listener with raw emotion. Wrong or right, he spoke from the heart and not always just to entertain. This is the core of JMAL's music. Purpose. He began to write and rap at age 9 and in the 3rd grade, was given a poetry assignment for which he received an A+. Like most kids would, he brought it home to show his mother, excited about the grade and not the words written. His mother read it and made such a big deal about the word play he considered it a premonition. His love for music grew as he progressed through puberty, honing his skills by rapping along with the albums his older brother brought home every pay day. He did this religiously in an effort to perfect his delivery. Back then, he didn‟t understand the importance of hip hop and how it one day would consume his life. He would often quit rapping and vow never to return to another studio. Still, he would find himself back in front of the microphone time after time. Realizing he has no other choice than music because of a higher calling to an infinite audience, he's taken his passion for hip hop to another level musically, lyrically, and mentally. Feeling like he is in too deep to quit, he is finally ready to appeal to an audience that craves true lyrical content over bass driven hip hop beats. He's often told by people who don't like or listen to rap music that they love his sound.

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One reason being the noticeable lack of profanity. Another is the music behind his words from mostly Rue Wade; with other selections from Profit and DJ Swift. Also, having mothers tell him his music is something they allow their children to listen to proves he'll one day cater to a much larger audience than most. When one possesses a large vocabulary, curse words become only a guilty pleasure for the lyricist and have a much greater effect. His music is based on his life; things he loves, hates, has done, seen, wants to do, will do, wishes he could do, and his perceptions of God. His other musical influences include The Wu-Tang Clan, Ras Kass, NAS, and the entire Motown catalogue along with the rest of the black music from that generation. Besides calling his music soulful hip hop, he generally prefers to let people describe it to him after they hear it. He feels his physical disadvantage is no detriment to his stage presence because he, in his own words, "sounds exactly like he does on wax". Currently signed to Carpe Diem Music Group, headed by Emmanuel Scheafe and John Hollywood in association with Famous Records Corporation, he released an album commercially in February 2010 entitled "SOCIAL STUDIES". Distributed by Universal, SOCIAL STUDIES is now available on iTunes, Amazon, Rhapsody, and just about anywhere else music can be downloaded. He is also a member of the Rhyme Cartel and has many performances throughout the metro Detroit area on his resume, dating from 2005 to 2007. The legendary music executive Al Bell sums it all up with this: "If we can't make him a star we shouldn't be in the business!" His music has been picked up by several internet stations and he has been a featured artist on Detroit Riot Radio. Thanks to his phenomenal publicist Rein Child, he is also beginning to establish a presence on major FM radio. His current single, “I Feel Good All Over” and “Moscato” featuring Charles “Gator” Moore can be heard daily on: CLICK:

http://www.detroitriotradioonline.com. FOLLOW JMAL THE SCHOLAR AT:

Click:http://www.jmalthescholar.com Click:www.twitter.com/jmalthescholar STATIONS CURRENTLY PLAYING 'MOSCATO': DETROIT RIOT RADIO (www.detroitriotradioonline.com) THE 305 SHOW (www.biz-zar-radio.com) SKEEM BEATZ SHOW (www.streetsd.com) YOU HOT RADIO -DETROIT FM 102.5- LONDON FM 97.9 WJLB WHAT'S NEXT ON THE MENU-DETROIT (PLAYING 'I FEEL GOOD ALL OVER & MOSCATO) DJ KAY SLAY SHOW (www.streetz106.com) INDEPENDENT MUSIC SHOW: (www.immradio.com) L3 PROMOTIONS RADIO-CAROLINAS FM 89.3 WFHR "THE BLOCK PARTY' MIXTAPES: HOT BLOCK MAGAZINE SPRINGFEST 2011 MIXTAPE GROWN FOLKS MUZIK MIXTAPE

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Does the name Tracy ring a bell? Maybe Sam Bostic sounds familiar to you? As the lead singer and founder of the acclaimed ..90s Oakland, CA based trio Art ..n Soul, he was featured on the Top 20 single "Ever Since U Went Away" (on Big Beat/Atlantic Records). As a writer/platinum producer and the infamous creator of mob music, he has been at the helm of several Bay Area hip hop tracks including E-40s hits "Sprinkle Me" and "Dusted & Disgusted" from the platinum "In A Major Way", "Heavy in the Game" from 2-Pacs doubleplatinum selling "Me Against the World" CD, as well as "Come On" from Master P's multi-platinum "I'm Bout It" soundtrack. Baptized in the soul of the masters that came before him, Sam is ready to step onto the scene again releasing his solo debut CD, "Soul Supreme: The Eclectic Collection", under his independently owned and operated House of Soul Recordings L.L.C. imprint. Describing the vibe, Sam states, We've heard all the so-called off springs of soul...Neo Soul, Contemporary Soul, etc. On this record, I wanted to revisit the vibe and textures of authentic Soul Philly Soul, Stax and Memphis soul. My goal was to keep the record lean with 12 songs from start to finish, absolutely no filler or fluff. Soul Supreme: includes the mesmerizing throwback "Zodiac Sign", for which Raphael Saadiq contributed to the hook. Also there is "Still Missing U" which boasts a vintage Al Green vibe, complete with trumpets and the growl of Hammond B-3 Organs, a cover of the Stylistics 1972 hit "Break Up to Make Up" from the pens of legends Thom Bell, Linda Creed and Kenny Gamble. But before you think the entire CD is a dj vu fest, there's the hope filled anthem, "Get Away", an exploration of a young hustlas journey to make it out of the ghetto, away from the grime of the streets, and the sexy "September" which weds a West Coast bounce track with creamy falsetto crooning ala Curtis Mayfield. I'm staying away from microwave music, Sam promises. You know, the kind thats poured into a cup, stirred and heated up to be good for about six weeks. I want to make music that'll still be here 100 years from now. Raised up from the Richmond, CA bootstraps, wheretrue pimps and playas adornedalmost every street corner, young Sam,was first influenced by his father, William Bostic, the

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lead singer of several groups that played the Bay Area to L.A. club circuit, most notably the Western Union Band. Sam actually taught himself to play several instruments left behind after band rehearsals held in his fathers basement. Though he was warned not to mess with the costly equipment, once everyone was out of sight, his grandmother gave him the green light to carefully get his learn on. Sam happily strapped on a Fender Jazz bass, followed by other axes, and proceeded to perfect his chops emulating the grooves and licks of childhood favorites such as Sly & The Family Stone and Earth, Wind & Fire. Recognizing game, his father invited a then 9- year old Sam to get on the mic during another band rehearsal. When he stomped a mud hole through the old school Ohio Players funk staple "Skin Tight ", dad put young blood front and center for a local TV taping. The funkadelic dye was cast. He was a music junky pure and simple and the energy from a crowd was his fix. Since that time, Sam has immersed himself into the full 360 degrees of the music making process. As a member of Art n Soul, Sam impressed Tony Toni Tone member Timothy Christian Riley enough that he produced the trios debut album. And to this day, you might just catch Sam sitting in for his fam Saadiq when Tim Christian Riley and D Wayne Wiggins takes The Tonyies on the road for a soul spin. While Art n Soul is still very much in tact, the group is currently on a temporary hiatus. So Sam has been flexing his solo skills. Just prior to waxing Soul Supreme, Sam landed a slot with his Soulful/Bluesy track "1 More Try" in the 2003 Martin Lawrence film, "National Security." The song was nicely featured during a scene where Martin was frisking and cuffing a butter scotch toned foxy culprit. And now that his album is complete, Sam is ready, willing and fully capable of taking his package out on the road to give people a show and win the respect of audiences worldwide. Longtime fans may even expect to see members of Art n Soul among his backline. This is like my child, Sam concludes of "Soul Supreme: The Eclectic Collection", which he recorded at home in the Bay Area and mixed in Los Angeles.

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I've been developing this body of work for a while now. It was the truth from the very birth of the record. This thing I'm doing, its not about big name bling, bling or smoke and mirrors. I wrote, produced and played mostly all of the instruments myself. I wanted to keep it raw and un-cut so I went in the studio, lit some candles and incense, and kept things intimate and spontaneous. I would sit quietly in the room, and let the music speak to me, just allowing the magic to happen. A. Scott Galloway

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His natural musicianship and vocal abilities seem to be a family trait, for he is part of a bloodline that includes his talented relatives (his mother‘s cousins) who were part of a successful 70‘s R&B Group called Tavares. Tavares‘ hits included, ―Heaven Must be Missing an Angel‖, ―Never Had a Love Like This Before‖, ―It Only Takes a Minute‖, and last, but certainly not least ―More Than a Woman‖ which appeared on the record breaking soundtrack for Saturday Night Fever‖, a movie starring a young John Travolta.

Versatile The historical and powerful idiom, “Young, Gifted & Black” is a phrase that personifies one with extraordinary abilities, and in this particular case that one is a rising, young, music mogul who goes by the aptly deemed name of Andre “Versatile” Hunter. Born in Springfield, MA and now based out of Chicago, Illinois, his gypsy-like existence has him frequenting many areas throughout the states, including Canada and overseas. Currently he is on Amelia Island (Fernandina Beach, FL) – Miami FL is also included in his Florida stop. In addition to cities in Florida, Atlanta GA is also a state and city that he parks his suitcases at from time to time. When asked about his grueling traveling schedule, he simply states that he makes himself available for all inquiries, collaborations, performances and appearances. He revealed that he is about to embark on a tour called ―The Versatile Xperience‖ bka ―The VX‖ which will target cities, states, and provinces that he has traveled to before and received the most love, but he is also reaching out and extending his entertainment travels to areas that would have otherwise not been capable of landing major acts. His flexibility and openness to play for big-budget venues and small intimate ones allow fans of all economic means the opportunity to see him perform. He added that he wants the world to know him and that he aspires to become a household name, known for tastefully rich and honest entertainment. Hunter‘s zeal to compose music was ignited by the people in his surroundings who lived their lives through music; he elaborated by saying that his mother and father kept the household flowing with it, and that his mother‘s voice was comparable to Whitney Houston when she was at the top of her game. He shared another fond memory of how he was awakened at his aunt‘s house one night, and asked to sing Houston‘s ―You Give Good Love‖, which he flawlessly nailed.

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For the impressionably gifted tyke, musical expression became a place of peace and solace. Whenever he felt lonely or hurt, angry or sad, music always soothed and lifted his spirits, something that it still does this very day. He says that once he zones out and, (In the words of the superstar rapper and business CEO, Jay-Z), starts murmuring and mumbling words to a beat; the ideas formulate and what might take many upwards of hours and up to a weeks) to complete; sometimes in 30 minutes, or up to a couple of hours perfectly, depending on the complexity of the arrangement. When beat making, he can make a high quality, big sounding instrumental right in front of your very eyes, whether it‘s hummed or beat-boxed in as little as 15 minutes but, again, it pretty much depends on the complexity of the composition. He further adds that his talent is not a gimmick and that he has plenty of eye-witnesses that can attest to his genius. Hunter states that music is, indeed, in his blood, that God saw fit to bless him with his a gift he cultivated without any formal training or schooling — all he has ever sacrificed is sleep from a radical drive that most would call crazy and, perhaps, even wonder how he is capable of functioning after being awake for so many hours. When asked which title he most identifies with, this multifaceted musical force says that producing and composing are intertwined as one, so he‘s somewhat of a chameleon when it comes to melodic and lyrical composition. The stimulation, he says, also comes from a poignant place within, so life, love and happiness (or even the lack thereof) boosts his imaginative energy. Hunter feels that he has gone through quite a bit in his young life, and that jaws would literally be dropping if he revealed details of the highs and lows he has encountered on his journey. Every experience, he says, empties out what has accumulated inside of soul and finds a new home inside the expressive corridors of his musical compositions. His desire is to bring hope to others whom have gone through similar struggles, or ones all their own. His passion is wrought with sincerity and he driven to create relatable music for anyone to identify with. He feels that, instead of delving in destructive or nonproductive activities, there are those who‘ll turn to music as an escape to be inspired or consoled and, again, that is what fuels his ambition. Andre believes that anyone can rise to their full potential and make their dreams happen as long as they stay progressively motivated and diligently focused in their efforts. Regardless of how broken someone‘s spirit may be, with a little bit of cultivation and direction that person can rise from the ashes and soar beyond even their own expectations. Hunter is currently an independent artist and the CEO of the entertainment company that he himself founded; which allows him the freedom to control his destiny and also cultivate other talent; however, when he finds the right management team he plans on negotiating a contract with a major recording company that will, in turn, open doors for not only

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him, but also the artists that he supports as well. Based on his observations about the business, there are too many talented people being overlooked and he is not someone interested in counting anyone out. This is the main reason why he pushes himself as hard as he does – handling the workload of an entire company, to prove that being multifaceted will allow one to create their own opportunities and set their own rules. Point blank; if you want something bad enough you‘ll do whatever it takes to make it happen. In doing whatever it takes, Andre‘s ―Versatile‖ musicianship allows him to not only play keyboards, but also to utilize ―every studio device known to man.‖ He went a step further by adding: ―If I‘m not familiar with it, give me a few days with it, and by the time you get back, I will be!‖ That versatility extends over to the genres of music he not only composes but also listens to. Some of his favorite singers and musical groups are: Ginuwine, Earth Wind & Fire, Freddie Jackson, Luther Vandross, Biggie, Tupac, Bow Wow, Usher, Jermaine Dupri, Jagged Edge, The Cranberries, Guns & Roses, Bon Jovi, Jimmy Buffett, Jeffery Osborne, The Verge, Savage Garden…. This list goes on and on – hence the middle name ―Versatile‖. His musical tastes may be vast, but his creative process is pretty simple: Hunter vibes to whatever it is he is creating. The mood of the music determines the aura within the studio – he generally likes feeding off of live interactions that encompasses everyone‘s essence to make them a part of his creative process. In that creating music is somewhat of a spiritual process, he adds that he believes in both the Father of man and his Son, he humbly knows that no one is perfect and that we all fall short of the Glory of God. His current musical project is entitled ―Q. & A: Pt. 1‖ and he is also working on a soundtrack for his upcoming book. The innovative tour he is about to embark is the basis for this soundtrack and he is currently accepting submissions from artists worldwide. Those he deems as being the ―Perfect Fit‖ will have the opportunity to tour with Hunter, covering geographic regions that include their own as well as others who will be touring also. The entire ―Versatility‖ concept is to send a message that the performances are universal without limitations or locations. The marketing avenues he uses to promote his music and projects are comprised of social networking, the distribution of CD‘s, online stores, specialized fliers and posters with graphics designed by Hunter, the tried and true word-ofmouth method (family and friends), numerous media forums, established industry-relationships, as well as, performances and special appearances. His open-mindedness leaves room for any inside industry personnel to share their vast knowledge and insight to help deepen his footprint in the sands walked by many phenomenal artists in the competitive recording world. Youthful wisdom assures him that, in the beginning, no one will brand you better than you; however, those who are willing to help are welcomed assets on his ambitious musical endeavors.

He remembers always being in his shadow, and even remembers how many folks swore that the two of them were related – they even said that his singing style mirrored Ginuwine‘s, and Hunter confidently echoes their sentiments. Hunter is a delightfully gifted young man on a marvelous musical mission, and is also a rising music mogul on the cusp of stellar success and longevity in the glamorous world of entertainment. The last question he was asked, is what he wants his current and future listeners to know about him, the artist. He pretty much says that the name fits the artist, and that with every piece of his work you will always have a part of him. He promises you that the music will consistently be real and that he isn‘t out just to make a hit, he wants his music to be inspirational compositions for the heart and soul. He wants everyone to know; established artists, as well as, producers and record labels – anyone that is looking to build bridges, a ―Versatile‖ start is the way to go. He offers services in production, mixing, mastering, duplication, media & graphic design, DJ‘ing on location, signature ―Chopped & ReVerSatillized‖, and most importantly, to express the fact that, any collaboration with Versatile & D-lux Entertainment will electrify any venue and bring the house down; ―You will not be disappointed‖. In closing out this insightful interview, Andre was asked what his biggest thrill has been so far as a recording artist. He responded by saying that being accepted and embraced by radio personalities, athletes, magazines, local and overseas entertainment personalities, has been an extreme adrenaline rush and profound encouragement to him. The natural high you feel knowing that others are truly enjoying what you‘ve created is, indeed, a humbling and sometimes overwhelming experience. To purchase Andre “Versatile” Hunter‟s music, visit any of the links below: http://twitter.com/VersatileMusic http://myspace.com/VersatileMusic http://facebook.com/VersatileMusic VersatileMusic@gmail.com Versatile‘s new cd ―Q&A: Pt. 1″ is now available on iTunes! Get your copy NOW! http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/q-a-pt-1/id391602977

Andre ―Versatile‖ Hunter‘s star is on the rise; he states that he has rubbed shoulders with many well known names in the business, but the most memorable moment came when, after waiting so long, he finally met singer/actor Ginuwine.

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JAMES GARDINER Blending pop, rock, soul, hip-hop, big band, jazz, classical, African and Brazilian music into unique and extraordinary fusions, James Gardiner has also been dubbed "The Quintessential Artist". Gardiner's vision inspires a new generation of listeners. In the past generation there have been catalysts that have moved music and trends forward. Quincy Jones who was first publicly recognized in the 50‟s as a young trumpeter with the Lionel Hampton and Dizzy Gillespie bands, then moving on to international acclaim as producer of the historic "We Are The World" recording and Michael Jackson's "Thriller". Film composer John Williams, became the staple ingredient for George Lucas and Steven Spielberg films, as did film composer Alan Silvestri for Robert Zemeckis films. They have set the trend for moviegoers for that generation. James Gardiner is the next generation of music a new catalyst. Gardiner breathes life and light into music - nurturing, encouraging and inspiring, dynamic new works - keeping the industry fresh and alive through the 21st century.

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Gardiner‟s seasoned experience makes him a perfect choice for the following:  Solid Publishing Catalog Compositions, Arrangements, Orchestrations & Sound Design for Film, TV & Video games  Conducting, Composing & Arranging for TV specials & awards ceremonies  New artist development and mentoring for up & coming musical superstars  Music Production for album projects for today’s superstars  Recording, Mixing, Editing & Mastering Engineering James Gardiner embodies a compilation of multiple disciplines that have been seasoned and matured to such a high level of expertise. This enables James Gardiner to fulfill a wide range of musical achievements. James Gardiner is an award winning composer, arranger, orchestrator, producer and Grammy nominated recording engineer with 42 gold and platinum awards to his credit. It is rare that someone with his talent for composition and orchestration is also highly skilled in the technical areas as a producer, recording, mixing and mastering engineer. Some say Gardiner is the contemporary Stravinsky, Henri Mancini, John Williams, or Alan Silvestri. He has been referred to as the next Duke Ellington and Quincy Jones. Gardiner studied composition at the famed Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle, Washington under the mentorship of Kenneth Cloud, (principal trombonist/Seattle Symphony Orchestra), Locram Johnson (pianist/classical composer) and Stanley Keen (pianist/jazz composer). He then took residency with the famed European world-renowned master composer Bonia Shur to study the art of film composition. Gardiner was commissioned to compose and conduct several works for the Seattle Symphony Orchestra. Following his http://www.facebook.com/RapstarMagazine

studies, Gardiner was recommended by Herbie Hancock to be his replacement as the sole “Composer-in-Residence” for the state of Washington, appointed by then Governor Evans, where he taught college-level music and composition. Under this commission Gardiner became one of the West Coast‟s most accomplished and acclaimed professional composers with his conducting and original compositions, winning ”Top Prize” triple-A winner and Grand Champion Band for three years consecutively at the International Jazz Festival in Reno, Nevada. Gardiner continued to create various compositions and arrangements and published “Gardiner Originals” for stage bands, symphony orchestras and his professional 17-piece big band jazz orchestra “LIFE-LINE”. Gardiner and LIFE-LINE performed West Coast dates along with Hank Crawford, Hubert Laws, Johnny Hammond, Grover Washington, Jr., George Benson and Ron Carter. Gardiner conducted LIFE-LINE‟s European Tour, performing his original compositions in London, Paris, Luxembourg and Belgium. The Mayor of the city of Luxembourg presented Gardiner the key to the city for an outstanding compositional performance. Gardiner discovered and mentored talent including Kenny G, EnVogue, BlaqueIce, Nikita Germaine, Rosie Gains and film composer Mark Isham. Gardiner has had the pleasure of working and performing with some of the finest talent throughout the country, including Deniece Williams, BlaqueIce, Bobby Kimball (Toto), Michael-John Toste, Destiny‟s Child, Will Smith, India Arie, D‟Wayne Wiggins, Brian McKnight, Michael Cooper, Rosie Gains, Shiela E, Nikita Germaine, Vanessa Williams, Jody Watley, Angela Bofil, B‟ Angie B, Lenny Williams, Whispers, Najee, Tupac Shakur, Digital Underground, Luniz, Too $hort, Master P, E-40, Tony! Toni! Tone!, Thomas Dolby, Pharoah Sanders, Hubert Laws, Grover Washington Jr., George Benson, Ron Carter, Sammy Davis Jr., Donny Hathaway, Bill Withers, Bobby Hutcherson, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, Barry White, John Lee Hooker Jr., Rickie Lee Jones, and Eddie Money just to name a few. http://twitter.com/#!/rapstarmagazine

Gardiner‟s filmography as a soundtrack mix engineer includes Bad Boyz II, 2 Fast 2 Furious, Dr. Doolittle, Tales from the Crypt, Sugar Hill, Menace II Society, Boyz „N the Hood, Howard the Duck and video games such as Mach Warrior 3: Pirates Moon, B17-Flying Fortress, Top Gun: Hornet‟s Nest, Star Trek: Birth of the Federation, including shows for television KRONTV (NBC), KPIX-TV (CBS) and MTV-Interview: William Floyd of the San Francisco 49er‟s. James Gardiner and producer/director Paula Telander are the co-founders of PAJAMA Recording Studios, a world-class commercial recording studio, TOUCH-TONE Productions, a full service music production company and JAWIZ Music Publishing (ASCAP), a music publishing company.

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Kev “K-Rock” A music producer, arranger and composer This musician is more than just a beat maker. He surpasses most music producers today, because of his ability to think outside the box and blend the new with the old. K-Rock cannot be compared to anyone, partially because of his sharp ear for sound selection and melody creations. K-Rock has worked with legendary producer Teddy Riley as a music producer, in which he composed a track titled, “Jelly” in 2004. In 2009, he produced two songs for Yung Joc’s “Grind Flu” album titled, “Might as Well” and “No Counterfeit”. K-Rock’s brings a unique perspective back to the West Coast, blending the best of both worlds, combined down South and West Coast music production. K-Rock grew up in Vallejo, Ca where he first introduced to music by playing drums in the school band during Junior and Senior high. At the same time, he was given a Casio keyboard and quickly realized that he could play back songs he heard on radio and T.V. K-Rock never received formal piano training, he discovered he had an uncanny knack for playing music by ear.

"It’s always the quiet guys behind the scenes that really make all the power moves. Always root for the underdog.” ~Kev “K-Rock ”~ If you were to ask K-Rock what his ultimate goal in the music business was, he would say that he is trying to bring the creativity back to urban and pop music. His main goal is to secure a lucrative production or publishing deal to provide the quality of music he has grown-up on. K-Rock wants to push the envelope of music creativity and challenge others to do the same. Currently projects are in motion with some big name artist , so it looks like music lovers can expect to hear some ground breaking production quality along with some special talented artists. K-Rock has been well hidden behind the scenes, which makes an interesting question as to why he hasn’t become the next Timbaland, Dr .Dre, or Neptunes yet.

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Andrei Manykz

Producer from Brooklyn, NY Looking for hot talented artists to blow up the Industry http://www.myspace.com/manykz manykz@yahoo.com manykzproductions@yahoo.com

717-855-5366

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RapStar Magazine sat down with Laylaw for an exclusive interview to talk about his early years, his work during his Ruthless Records days, his involvement in the early careers of Ice Cube and Dr. Dre, and much more! „Law, tell us about you, your background and how you came up… I figured out when I was like 17 that I could write, so at that point I started writing songs while I was still in high school. When I graduated from high school, the interest still was there so I pursued putting out the songs I was writing. I started a label called Rolexx Records. I went up to Macola, got a distributor, and picked up everybody‘s records who was doing it at that time; like, World Class Wreckin‘ Cru, Dream Team, Ice T and others. At that time, everybody‘s records were being distributed by Macola. So, I just called Macola, it was that easy. On Rolexx Records, who were the artists you had there? Me! *laughing* I was going to put out some of my stuff; it was like singing kind of rap. I was also supposed to put out my homeboy, Parakee. He wrote a song, he wrote the first part, and me and him wrote the second part, it was called ―Monster Rap.‖ We did the demo and Dr. Dre heard the song, originally with Parakee‘s voice on it, but then Parakee went to jail for life. Dre said, ―Law, you should go ahead and put that song out.‖ I did, but don‘t know why I did it! *laughs* Then, we had a song called ―Dirty Dog,‖ which was one of my favorite songs. Dre liked it, but we never put it out. If I would‘ve put "Dirty Dog" out, I probably would have been more of an artist. So, how did you and Dr. Dre come to work together in those early years?

Laylaw

“Tales from the West Coast” By: Chad Kiser South Central, L.A., the birthplace of many of the most notorious and violent gangs in history, also birthed multiplatinum record producer and executive, Laylaw, who began writing songs at the young age of seventeen. The ground-breaking roots of Laylaw trace back deep within the concrete history of music -- as you can find the musical fingerprints of Laylaw with Dr. Dre during (and before) Ruthless Records, Death Row Records and Aftermath Entertainment. One of the originators of the celebrated "G-Funk" sound, Laylaw was introduced to the famed super producer a t a young age, who began producing some of Laylaw‟s early songs. Dr. Dre‟s name is listed as “Mechanic” on Laylaw‟s earlier projects due to Dre‟s deal with Epic – a fascinating note to the history of Andre Romelle Young. Don‟t be surprised if you hear Laylaw somewhere on the most highly-coveted Hip-Hop albums of all time, “Detox.”

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Once I started distributing Rolex. And through that, I was introduced to some other people who were putting out labels, such as Alonzo. I was invited over to Alonzo‘s house, and that‘s when I met Dr. Dre. I had met Dre before, but I didn‘t know the Dr. Dre in the group was the same Dr. Dre. I hadn‘t put it all together. I had met Dre when he was younger because his cousin stayed down the street from me over in South Central, so our paths had crossed a couple times. Dre started producing some of my early stuff.

He had a deal with Epic though, so we didn‘t know if we could use his name or not, so we used Mechanic. If you look at some of the earlier stuff, it will say produced by Lay Law and the Mechanic (Dr. Dre) so that‘s how far we go back -- Before NWA, "(The) Cabbage Patch" and all that stuff. When they would make their songs, I would be around learning more because I came in totally green just knowing how to write. They already had a couple records out, so I was trying to figure out who they were going to promote and kind of got through the back door through Alonzo. Tell me about working with Michel‟le, because I‟m looking at the credits, and you‟re credited throughout her debut. What‟s the story behind that? Half the credit isn‘t right. My name isn‘t on half of what I wrote. I wrote on every song of the album, except the remake to ―Silly Love Song‖ and ―100% Woman,‖ but other than that every song on that album. I wrote something on ―Nicety,‖ but they took it off, the last part of it, which I don‘t mind even though I came up with the idea for the hook, but my words got changed at the last minute. ―Nicety‖ you can debate, but other than that that‘s me. Anyways, Alonzo brought Michel‘le around to sing on a record and I liked her voice, so me being a writer I wanted to see if I could write some of her stuff. I started writing songs for Michel‘le with Alonzo at first, because he had Michel‘le first. I wrote for her with Alonzo, until

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they fell apart with the Wreckin‘ Cru, which then the transformation became Ruthless Records. Once NWA started coming around, Michel‘le started coming around to Ruthless, and since I was already writing for her, it was natural that I just continue. I wrote most of that first album for Michel‘le, like ―No More Lies‖ and ―Something in my Heart.‖ You said the transition to Ruthless Records...What can you tell us about the early forming of that legendary West Coast label? The Ruthless Records' situation came about because the Wreckin‘ Cru thing started to deteriorate for whatever reason; it‘s been too long ago to be precise on what happened. Everybody was fleeing. Dre still was Dre and he wanted to still toy and make some music. He was producing people and trying to do his thing. He even came to me one time, but I was so into the streets...You‘ll even see in the NWA home videos, Dre said out of his own mouth that the only two people he knew had money back then was Eazy and Laylaw. Laylaw was into his own thing. Back then, you couldn‘t make me believe that music was going to make money like the street was. In the beginning, Ruthless signed me as an artist. When Ruthless got formed and Eazy started and "Boyz n the Hood" got wrote for HBO, they didn‘t want to said

do it, it was too "West Coast." Eazy ended up doing it. He put his voice on it. Eazy wasn‘t used to it, you know, first time you hear your voice on tape and your not used to it. Eazy ran from the idea of him being Eazy E for a little while. But everybody that heard the song loved it, so it kind of grew on him that the song sounded good. So then, Dre put (out) a mix-tape and the next thing you know that song's all over the 'hood. Everybody‘s playing it. We‘re selling it out of the trunk. It moved so fast. It was one of those once in a lifetime things. Once people heard "Boyz n the Hood," that was it you can‘t bring it back. Rumor has it that you financed Boyz N The Hood… No, I didn‘t finance "Boyz n the Hood." The song was written for Eazy‘s group HBO (Home Boyz Only). They didn‘t want to do the song, thought it was too "West Coast." Eazy put his voice on it. Eazy loved the song. Q only wanted $500 dollars, a pair of Nikes, a gold chain and a Volkswagen for like three or four hundred dollars. He wanted Eazy to buy him that. All of that together was like $1000, $1500 on the higher end. I told Eazy, ―If you don‘t give him that money, I‘m going to give it to him and put my voice on it."

Ultimately, that was the beginning NWA?

of the end of

No, it was the beginning of the end for cords. After Ice Cube left, you had a foundation. He was a major piece of tion. Cube and Dre both were You can‘t keep losing pieces less to function. I left, what do you have? of what we put way in hell it w e n t

Ruthless Recrack in the that foundamajor pieces. and expect RuthDOC left...Now You have a shell out there. No was over, it bad.

N o w b a c k then you were working with Dr. Dre, before he became the Dr. Dre as we all know now -What was it like working with him then, and working alongside of him, especially on a R&B album? We were just doing it. Dre is easy to work with. It wasn‘t just Dre. I understand the public needed a figure to mess with, but there was L.A. Dre as well (and) Stan the Guitar Man, who did a lot of Ruthless production stuff. Dre was challenging. I liked working with him. I hope to do something with him again. I‘m sure it‘s in the cards. Of all the songs you‟ve been a part of in your vast career, can you give me five of your favorite songs that you produced? That‘s a hard one. That‘s real hard. I‘m putting out a greatest hits with sixty of them, and I had to narrow that list down to sixty! *laughs* 1. "California Love" 2. "Something In My Heart" -- I‘m real proud of that, because it‘s been re-made into a jazz version, (and) twenty plus years later people still like it. 3. Ice Cube "Really Doe" 4. Above The Law‘s "Ballin‖ 5. "I Wonder if Heaven Got A Ghetto" -- It was supposed to go on the album before ‗Pac passed, but after he passed they wanted it to be the first song to come out. I had mixed emotions about it. They assured me they were just trying to secure his

How involved were you with NWA, DOC and even Eazy‟s solo, with some of those projects? I would help out with a line here or there, or a verse here or there. It wasn‘t like a structure like you would see now. It was like in the studio doing a song, some people would have more input than others. If it was their project, I wouldn‘t try and hover over them. Eazy loved having me around, because I was extremely ghetto, street-smart back then. NWA was more ―artist,‖ and I was still tripping from the 'hood. So, Eazy loved me around. You know, I was with them at every show from the beginning, except for one they did up north, but I was there. And even at the show I missed, Eazy said, ―We missed the Laylaw,‖ so from there on I was in every NWA show, every tour, everything they ever did. They did that one show without me, but other than that I was on stage just for the atmosphere. I was there when the record was made, so why not be on stage. As far as rapping and stuff, the plan was for me to have exposure, for people to see me, so that when I came out they already know I‘m from the group. But me in the background watching everything, I like how Eazy structured things. It wasn‘t that he gave me all the blueprint, but I realized immediately that being a label was more benefi-

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Who Is Javi Picazo? By Todd Davis

One may or may not have to ask his or herself this particular question, because, truth be told, if the answer isn't already obvious, it certainly will become quite evident in just a matter of time. Sure, he isn't quite yet a household name, but mark these words because the Northern California, by way of San Francisco rapper is well on his way to inevitable greatness. Now it's time for RapStar readers to meet the man born Javi Picazo… When did your love for music first begin? I‘ve always loved music. I remember my mom blastin' 8 tracks of her favorite bands, most of them Mexican Banda groups from the 70‘s/80‘s, while she cleaned up around the house and I would be runnin' around with my nephews and nieces singin' along and making the songs my own by adding a word here or there like a remix or something. Growin' up, I remember finding old vinyls of Parliament-Funkadelic and The Jackson 5 that had belonged to my older sisters, and playing those on an old record player we had laying around the house and trying to play deejay and scratch to them. Safe to say, I ruined a couple 45s that way. So, I been interested in music from as far back as I remember. In junior high, I started writing my own raps. I remember my older cousin telling me about Too$hort‘s "Freaky Tales," I heard it and thought it was the dopest shit ever. I wrote one of his whole songs out on paper so I could rap along to it. Eventually in high school, I linked up with a couple other dudes that had a little home studio where they made beats at and had like a $500 mic -- I thought that was the shit back then -- I started droppin' 16s and the rest is history. Where exactly do you hail from? That said, who specifically influenced your sound and style? I popped out my mom‘s womb at St. Luke's Hospital, San Francisco, California. Grew up in Bernal Heights next to Precita Park, just a short walk from Mission Street, where Carlos Santana hails from. So, of course, I was a big fan of his. Also, RBL Posse, Coughnut (R.I.P.), Too $hort, Mac Dre (R.I.P.), Funky Aztecs, Ice Cube, 2Pac (R.I.P.), Nas, Scarface, Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre...Just to name a few. When did you actually decide that this was your calling? Well, my cousin had told me about a friend of his who had put out a couple CDs for a couple artists out of S.F.. He introduced us, I let him hear a couple songs, and within a week I was in a major Northern Cali studio recording professional tracks. I recorded songs with San Quinn, Messy Marv, Suga Free, Yukmouth, Kurupt, N.O.R.E., the list goes on. In part, my dreams were beginning to come true and we had revenue coming in from shows. So, that‘s when I made a decision to leave other things behind and pursue music full-time.

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How then would you categorize what it is that you do on the mic?

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I would call it Hip-Hop...Add a dose of gangsta, a taste of R&B, a pinch of the party vibe, and a tsunami of lyrical wordplay and content, strategically placed on the hottest beats from all genres -- West Coast, East Coast, South, even Latin -- Let that marinate in some political consciousness, throw it over the stove, stir in some Bay Area game, and you get Javi Picazo!

We might have to leave this one a surprise for now. My intent with this album was to showcase myself through the entirety of the LP, and at this point I feel I succeeded at doing that. I didn‘t want to ride anyone Else's coattails to achieve extra acclaim. However, I will say that there is a couple guest appearances that will pleasantly surprise the listeners.

Well, as you already mentioned, you are definitely not "new to the game" so to speak, so could you give me a quick run-down of your existing resume'/ discography...

From a lyrical perspective, when you sit down to pen your rhymes where do you draw your inspiration(s) from?

These are just a few… Bay Area Playaz Volume 2: Raining Ice In The Bay Lone Star Ridaz: 40 Days/40 Nights Javi Picazo: Street Schematics Frost: Somethin' For The Riderz Thizzed Out Presented By Goldtoes Sky Balla: Mobb Report Merciless: Step Into My World and Flesh & Ink Benzino: Redemption Mastered Trax Latino: Definicion del Fuego The Jacka of the Mob Figaz: Jack Of All Trades The Company: Good Times Happy Perez: The Self Employed Mixtape, Volume 1 How did you then manage to hook up with Ric Parada, and later land on his Jungle Vine imprint? Ric is my brotha from anotha, and Jungle Vine is us -- That‘s OUR label! It is my understanding that you are now finally working on your "official" solo debut -- Thus far, what can you reveal or divulge about said project? Its gonna blow people away! I don‘t think the public has heard a young Latin emcee really represent Hip-Hop like I do. I feel I'm touching all bases with this project. It‘s got something for everybody. I got a couple songs speaking on the current state of Hip-Hop. A couple songs speaking on the current state of America. A couple of songs for the ladies. A couple songs for the hustlaz -- I mean I got something for everybody! You cant just categorize me as ―Latin Rap‖ or West Coast rap. I‘m an emcee who just happens to be Latin. And, from the West Coast...The Best Coast! Haha! Has it even been titled yet? As of right now, it is officially untitled. But, I am deciding between a couple titles: The Perfect Picture being one of them. My last name is Picazo, pronounced just like the painter (Pablo) Picasso, and I feel through my rhymes I paint the ―perfect picture" of the message I‘m tryin' to get across in a song. But, nothin' is set in stone just yet. From a production stand-point, who all did you work with? I had the opportunity of working with Houston-based platinum producer Happy Perez. He has produced for Baby Bash, SPM, Mystikal, Paul Wall, Chamillionaire and Frankie J to name a few. He produced about half the album. That was definitely a blessing! Me and Hap go back a few years. I‘ve gone back and forth to Houston and collab'd with him a few times for his projects as well. I also worked with Cozmo, who has produced for everybody from Bun B, Outlawz to Jagged Edge and Angie Stone. Also lending a hand is Klypso, from the Aftermath (Entertainment) production camp. He has produced for Keak Da Sneak, The Team, and Tupac.

It‘s different every time. It could be the beat tellin' me what to do by setting a certain mood for me to work with, or it could be something I went through that day that will inspire me to go in a certain direction. But, the bottom line is that (I) learned from the best -- the 2Pac's, the Nas‘, the Slick Rick's, the Rakim's -- so when I sit down to write I put in no less effort than I feel the before mentioned emcees would put into each one of their bars. Whether its 2Pac‘s passion and honesty, or Nas‘s attention to details, or Slick Rick‘s story tellin' capabilities or Rakim‘s captivating vocals and effortless flow...I draw from my own knowledge of the great ones that came before me and on the idea that letting Hip-Hop down is not an option. I carry on tradition. Let's talk longevity...What do you feel is and will continue to be the key to your success? The key to my success is my insistence on staying true to who I am, who I will be, and who I‘ve always been. Not changing my appearance or message, because some head of a label wants me to. Or, because that‘s whats ―in‖ right now. Fuck a false image! There‘s a cluster-fuck of lil wack ass rappers runnin' around with skinny jeans on, auto-tuning the fuck out their voice and callin' themselves rappers. All they are is clowns! That shit just a fad right now. Real music don‘t die. Ever! That timeless shit. That‘s what we after. Y'all could go ahead and tattoo your whole f*ckin' body, but that ain't gonna step your bars up. Ha! What we have now in Hip-Hop is clones of clones of clones. The shit is disappointing, man. Don‘t get me wrong, I‘m all for the next man getting paper, that‘s what I'm tryin' to do, too, but I just don‘t condone some of the shit goin' on in Hip-Hop right now. I‘m gonna stay grounded, focused, and driven to get this success that I feel me and my team deserve. I have a really strong team with me right now. I feel we are in a really good place, where everyone‘s on the same page. Goals in sight. Lets get it! We rollin' over anything that gets in our way! Is there anything else that you are looking to explore, futuristic-ally speaking? I‘m currently writing a couple movie screenplays. One of them is based on the Mexican cartels, and spans back a few generations to show the events leading to their inception and transformation. The story does follow one central figure, as he is affected by the cartels in different ways. Good and Bad. Its gonna be bad ass! We have spoken to a couple well known Latino actors about being in the movie already. It‘s exciting. I‘m also working with a couple designers on a Jungle Vine clothing line. I have a couple close friends who have started their own clothing lines -- Avant Garde International -- and they're giving me some good advice on how to get it off the ground successfully. Also, looking to open a medical marijuana dispensary in Northern California. Looking at some properties in Vallejo, California. Just hoping the city council makes the right decisions. This could boost the city‘s economy, and help those in need. Continued on page 107

Are there any planned cameo appearances?

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Public Enemy, BDP, NWA and Tupac- so it only makes sense for me to give music fans that same energy, vibe & truth in my music”. Born in Oakland, CA and raised in nearby Vallejo, Merciless enjoyed Rap music at a very young age. As a young 16 year old, he along with his older brother and cousin formed the group Funky Aztecs in 1991. The moniker alone implied that Merciless and his family were on a different page. FUNKY from A to Z, just add the TECS (techniques).

“When you see my album cover, its just a picture of my chest and tattoos. Just a simple expression of myself and what I represent. Its not a picture of me seated in a rented penthouse, or with all types of gimmicks and graphics Its just me”. Simple, artistic and highly expressionistic Vallejo, CA artist Merciless is, without question, a pioneer and visionary in the art of Rap music. Over the last decade as chief architect of the legendary group, Funky Aztecs and as a member of the all-star collaborative Lone Star Ridaz, Merciless has been a leading force in expanding the Latin perspective of culture, history and just rocking the party. From simple concepts of hanging with friends in the neighborhood, to tackling more complex issues dealing with social identity or gang violence. Merciless has broken barriers and built bridges that no Rap artist can lay claim to. “I am a very personal person says the young MC. So what I think and feel on a personal level is always reflected in my music. That's what I got from listening to

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Funky Aztecs debuted in 1992 with the album Chicano Blues which is one of the more seminal albums in Rap music to date thus far. The cover alone was worth the price of the album (released on TNT Records home to & featuring, Digital Underground and Tupac Shakur). After touring, doing shows at arenas and car shows, the group released their second LP Day of The Dead on their own independent label, Backseat Records. With a fantastically produced album and songs that reflected with the youth at the time, their nationwide release was paving the way for today's Latin Rap scene, for its identity and the consumer demand in the music industry. On the groups last album together in 1999, Addicted, with the smash single Morena which hit radio by storm. Those three albums opened huge doors for the Mexican-American market on a social level, and the Funky Aztecs did themselves an even greater service by opening up the rest of the Hip Hop/Rap audience to their raw rhymes as well. The greater appeal of the Aztecs and Merciless in particular, was the blend of the gangsta mentality with a clear objective position in the world. Merciless is from the same street element that birthed the great writers Tupac, Ice Cube and Scarface. Hip-Hop celebrates the alpha males of the thug environment who can talk, party and fight for what they believe in. After the Addicted LP, Merciless would once again be included in breaking new barriers. The Texas underground rap scene was taking off, Merciless with fellow Vallejo rap prodigy Baby Bash joined the All-Star http://www.facebook.com/RapstarMagazine

super group Lone Star Ridaz of Houston, TX. (w/South Park Mexican and producer Happy Perez) which again joined wounded ties around Chicanos separated by state, but united by blood. The group released three albums Lone Star Ridaz, Wanted and 40 Days and 40 Nights. What's all the Buzz about?... In collaboration with platinum producer Happy Perez, Merciless is stinging you with his official solo debut LP Flesh & Ink. The 17 track opus is stripped down to the raw essence of his soul, Merciless delivers an album that is inspired by the Streets, Love and Pain. Its both personal and universal in dealing with politics of the hood, women, partying, thug sh*t and the cultural heritage he shares with growing up in black-and-brown neighborhoods. The album's single, My Everything, is a lush, mid -tempo thug-love song that examines his past relationships with the women in his life. There is a lot of machismo in our Latin culture, and I wanted to put something out there that was different but true, more engaging to women. Another of the CDs outstanding tracks is the party song I Got Tha... which celebrates the best of the Texas-Cali intoxicants (syrup and hydro). The smooth hook done by Russell Lee, compliments the satin guitar licks and Perez's synthesizer melodies. A Screwed version also follows the song. The great tracks include 3.0.4., Whatcha Looking At?, Life, Growing Pains featuring Max Minelli, Dope Beats and the club hit Dope Beats. From being cited as a cultural reference in Chicano Studies at UC and California State Universities with the Funky Aztecs, to breaking barriers within Chicano and American cultures, Merciless' influence stretches far beyond any social, hood or ethnic boundaries. Flesh & Ink is an everyman's album that captures the true spirit of what Rap music is ---- self expression and being damned good at it. The Real MERCILESS. Follow Merciless on: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Merc100Man Twitter https://twitter.com/Merc100Man Reverbnation http://www.reverbnation.com/mercilessakamerc100man

Javi Picazo-Cont. from pg.105 Are you happy with the current state of Hip-Hop? And, even more specifically, West Coast rap? I think I covered this one already a couple questions ago. But, West Coast rap...Hmm...I love West Coast rap! Most of the pioneers that I grew up listening to are still around in some way or another. Some have passed on...R.I.P.! As far as the newcomers...Hmm...There's some dope artists comin' out of L.A.. There's some dope ones comin' out the Bay, too! But, there's also some that make me say, "WTF?! GTFOH!" You know? I think right now the South got it. It will come back around to the West like it always does. But, I'm not gonna sit around and wait. I‘ll tell you that much, bruh. I‘ll be out there getting it wherever the fuck it is. I rep where I'm from to the fullest, but I'm worldwide with this business. Money got no boundaries. That said, in what direction do you foresee your career heading? Music top of the charts...House top of the hills...Life top of the world -- I‘m focused, maaaann! As for now though, what's immediately next for you? Promo this album, this label, this brand that is Javi Picazo. And, get my music to everybody's front door, computer screen and headphones! Is there anything I left out or just plain forgot to mention? Look out for the first single, ―FLY,‖ by JAVI PICAZO, featuring Houston singer Russell Lee. Some of that feel good music. One of them songs where you just put everything aside for the day and fly away with ya chick. Every hustla deserves a vacation...And, a bad bitch! Ha! Any special message for the RapStar readers? Just watch and see! Witness what hard work can get you. A rapper shouldn‘t be your hero. Be your own hero. Shout out to RapStar Magazine. Jungle Vine is here! To my family...I love u! Xavier take care of mommy. You‘re the man of the house when I'm not home. Love you mijo! FREE MERC 100 MAN! -JAVI PICAZO-

Follow Javi Picazo on: Twitter https://twitter.com/JaviPicazo Myspace http://myspace.com/javipicazo2008 Facebook Fan Page https://www.facebook.com/JaviPicazoMusic Facebook Profile https://www.facebook.com/javi.picazo ReverbNation http://www.reverbnation.com/javipicazo

Myspace http://www.myspace.com/therealmerc

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Although born in Germany, the long-time friends are quick to admit that they are not followers of the German music scene, Kabanjak notes, “for us music is and will always be an international phenomena”, and Ancient Astronauts are certainly not afraid to draw on influences from international artists and styles. By utilizing their vintage-meets-future aesthetic, the duo has created an album infused with beats that defy any rigid classifications. “At an early stage we realized that we are both big music heads so we started running parties in our hometown together”. by Tobias Freytag / FAD Photography

The Ancient Astronauts The Ancient Astronauts are Kabanjak and Dogu, a bombastic production and DJ duo hailing from Cologne, Germany. The phenomenon of ―ancient astronauts, "a belief that extraterrestrial beings visited Earth in ancient times to mingle and trade ideas with early human civilizations”, isn‘t an alien concept to these Ancient Astronauts. The cross-pollination and mash-up of ideas, sounds, styles, and a collaborative spirit are their modus operandi.

Those parties soon led to music productions and a whole list of inspirational remixes. Following on from these early experimentations, 2001 saw the Ancient Astronauts begin Switchstance Recordings. Developed as a way of allowing the Astronauts total musical freedom, the label soon gathered momentum and built up an impressive fan base including the likes of veteran DJ Mr. Scruff. Switchstance Recordings is now famous in international club circles for its infused, funky productions.

FREE Single "Worldwide" http://ancientastronauts.wordpress.com http://www.myspace.com/ancientastronautsswitch

"Whether it's down tempo grooves, hard hip-hop, bang-in dub, or skillful scratching, Ancient Astronauts keep your head nodding start to finish on their new joint." -Waxpoetics

Already having remixed and collaborated with Fort Knox Five, Ladybug Mecca of Digable Planets, Zion I, Imani and Bootie Brown of The Pharcyde, Issa Bagayogo, Vieux Farka Toure, Kid Loco, Zion Train, and Tippa Irie the Ancient Astronauts have linked up with a variety of new sonic collaborators for their kaleidoscopic sophomore album Into Bass And Time! Self described as a “mash up of the distant past and far future”; Ancient Astronauts have created an album born out of an eclectic mix of ideas, sounds and styles. Enlisting the talents of a variety of diverse MC‘s- —and vocalists, the album demonstrates impressive progress from their debut.

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MARKETING & PROMOTIONS

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love the new stuff too. Lil Wayne, Kanye, T.I, Biggie and a huge Jay-z fan. I love dance hall music as can be heard in my style. What influences your music? What inspires you to write your songs? Problem Child: I like to write to beats using ideas that are constantly floating around in my head. What sets Problem Child aside from other Soca Artiste? Problem Child: The difference between me and other Soca acts is my wide knowledge of music in different genres. I know songs that people don‘t know exist and that helps in my versatility. I think I‘m more versatile than most. I can rap if I have to and sound legit (Living in Brooklyn N.Y for many years now) I could sing R&B if I had a voice for it because I can write it. I do Soca, I do Dance hall. You name it.

Problem Child Johnny Fontainne also known as Problem Child has brought you Soca hits one after the next, making your carnival experience one to remember. Problem Child is musician and song writer hailing from St. Vincent and the Grenadines. He recorded the worldwide hit ―Party Animal” in 2007 and has had everyone rushing to the dance floor to release their inner soca- animal ever since.

What are your plans for this industry? What do you want people to know? Problem Child: My basic plan is to spread my music as far as possible and show people that I‘m here and I‘m a legitimate force and to step up far beyond the under-rated artiste many people say I am and that I know I am. FOR MORE INFO ON PROBLEM CHILD Follow him on http://twitter.com/#!/VINCYBADBOY

WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/JOHNFONT FACEBOOK.COM/PROBLEMCHILD.VINCY

Problem Child is also known for featuring on Donaeo's ―Party Hard Remix” in 2009. His unique style brought added energy to the already huge song and gave it a West Indian appeal. The remix, which was unofficial at the time created a lot of controversy due to the song being leaked without proper permission. With his aggressive and untiring stage energy, Problem Child is a force to be reckoned with! I had a chance to sit with Problem Child while he‘s in the studio recording music and preparing for ST. Vincent Carnival. (Vincy Mass) As a musician, what kind of music do you listen to? Problem Child: I‘m a fan of music of all genres. I love old school rap. Big Daddy Kane, Kool G Rap, KRS 1. I

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- Comedy Show. I attended 2 of the shows, they‘re an experience, and he commands the stage pacing back- --and forth like a panther in a cage, commenting on everything from the crowd to Barack Obama to his failed marriage. Looking like Ice Cube‘s baby brother, dressed in a suit, Daunte is quick witted, educated and intense, using a comedy style that his own called ―Burksizm.‖ What I loved about this guy was, he didn‘t sound like anyone, he wasn‘t trying to imitate Chris Rock or Eddie Murphy or Dave Chappelle, and his jokes weren‘t someone else‘s jokes.

Photo By: Nichelle Broadway - Forever Broadway Photography

The Next Big Comedian By " Preston Donovan Richards" Daunte Burks is a comedian, not a comic. If you don‘t know the difference let me share with you, a comic says funny things, a comedian says things funny. Daunte Burks says things funny. Straight out of south Sacramento, this young man is one of the people to pay attention to, not just because he‘s funny, but because he‘s funny and he has business sense and savvy. Talking to Daunte is like having a conversation with Dave Chappelle and Warren Buffet wrapped into one man, he tells jokes but he is no joke. You can tell that he‘s someone who has a plan, and the plan is to become a household name and I can tell you this, don‘t be against him. Most comedians are funny, but anyone can tell a joke or a funny story, few can take you on a journey, few comedians can make you feel as though you‘re going on an odyssey, starting at a valley and ending at the mountain top. Hell he made me feel better about myself and he was telling his story.

I‘m confident about this Burks guy; he‘s in my opinion, a guy that will be one of those comedians who will be on the scene next. If you have a chance to check him out, I strongly suggest you do, take my word, you won‘t be disappointed. Today comedy is a different hustle; there isn‘t a Def Comedy Jam or Comic View for the up and coming comedians to be seen like in the old days. I remember seeing DL Hughley and when I saw him, I knew he was going to be somebody. When I saw Bernie Mac for the 1st time, I knew he was going to be a star! I‘ve seen Daunte Burks and I have that same feeling about him. He‘s got the confidence, the charisma and the hustle to become the comedian of the next generation. You heard it here first! Website: www.funnyfridaycomedyshow.com Booking Info: burksizm@gmail.com Twitter: @daunteburks Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/burksizm Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/daunte.burks

He‘s a business, he writes, he promotes, he acts, and produces the best comedy show in Northern California, Daunte Burks‘ Funny Friday

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Rapstar: What is it about Comedy that keeps you going? A: I'm addicted to the energy of crowd, Positive energy that is LOL... I love making people laugh that's my adrenaline rush some people like to jump out of air planes, some people like to smoke crack (LOL). I like to see the expression on peoples faces when they are laughing at my jokes. Rapstar: How do you come up with your jokes? A: My jokes come to me in my sleep. I dream about all my jokes. There has never been a night that I haven‘t had a dream. So, I say probably about 50% is in my sleep and the other 50% on stage are from off the top of my head. I just let my ADD take over. Rapstar: If there is anything else you could do besides being a comedian what would you do? A: A Janitor! My dad has been trying to get me to be a janitor for years! Rapstar: Can you tell us a little more about your style of comic relief?

“OJ” aka “The Jokeman” Oliver Young, ―OJ‖ aka ―The Jokeman‖ has been honing his craft of comedy for over four years. This young, up and coming comedian began to pursuit his career in comedy at the age of 20 by appearing at open mic nights at the well-known Pepper Belly‘s comedy club in Fairfield, CA. From there he ventured out to nearby cities and performed at various comedy venues such as Uptown Comedy Corner, Kimball‘s Carnival, A Touch A‘ Class, Laughs Unlimited in Sacramento, Dimitri‘s Lounge in Suisun City, Celestine‘s of Oakland, Tommy T‘s in Rancho Cordova and Pleasanton. He has also been invited to open up for various renowned comedians like Michael Collier (House Party), Frank Lucero (Latin Kings of Comedy), Ralphie May, J.B. Smooth, AlexThomas (Players Club), and Bruce Bruce. Rapstar: Tell me a little bit about yourself? A: I‘m funny, laid back, outspoken love to travel and love spending time with my kids. Family is really important to me. It really is family and comedy …family and comedy yea and money. I love to make people laugh. I enjoy it. That is one of the reasons why I wanted to do comedy. Rapstar: How did you get the name O.J.? A: O.J. comes from hmmm... Well I call it a black error, error meaning brain farts. It comes from my grand dad‘s name which is Oliver and my dad‘s name is Oliver also so technically I'm Oliver the third but they call my dad Oli and everyone always called me little Oli Jr. and then the name O.J. just stuck. I don‘t know what these people were thinking. I wanted to have a gangster name like Leroy or like Tyrone you know a cool name that I could get the ladies with LOL!. I never wanted to be named Oliver. Oliver didn‘t sound like a cool name ever to me, but you can't tell my grand dad that.

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A: I believe I have a unique style because the way I do my comedy from what people have told me its different because most of the things I talk about on stage are true events of everyday life. do have my own style that people don‘t really do. I do gay jokes that I get up and dance too. It is just everyday things. Like a big kid. Like a grown kid. Rapstar: Do you ever find yourself or has anyone told you that you remind them of another famous comic? If so, who and how do you feel about it? A: I've heard Chris Tucker & Martin Lawrence . I feel like I have potential being up there with them. Those are really great comedians and I hope that one day I can be in their shoes. Rapstar: Now I know you have children, do you think they would follow your footsteps? A: I really don't know. I would want my Lil' girls to finish school and become successful in life. Whatever they decide to do I'll be behind them 100% except for any kind of porn, stripping or anything derogatory they shouldn't have to degrade themselves to make money. This is just my ticket to get them into college. Rapstar: Where can viewers follow you and your work? A: You can find me on twitter www.twitter.com/OJthejokeman also www.youtube.com/OJthejokeman and www.facebook.com/O.J.Young Rapstar: What advice can you give aspiring comedians? A: To Go hard or go home! Don‘t give up and don‘t stop. When you reach the point that you ask yourself why the hell am I doing this? Just keep it pushin!

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FIRE Fire, formerly known as Small Frie or Small Fry, was born in Drew, Mississippi and later relocated to Atlanta, GA at the age of 14. Shortly after attending junior college her fire for comedy was ignited. She gained national popularity with appearances on BET's Comic View, HBO's Def Comedy Jam, Bobby Jones Artist Retreat on the WORD Network, TBN, Vibe, The Wayans Brothers Show, It's Showtime at the Apollo, Tom Joyner Sky Show and appeared in The Disney Movie First Kid, starring Sinbad. In the midst of her successful career, Fire changed her moral approach to comedy and dedicated her life to God. She has obtained the Freedom to Inspire and Redeem through Entertainment: FIRE. She believes that comedy ministry is well received because it‘s not forced. You're laughing and, before you know it, you're inspired and encouraged. With her down home southern charm and her unmatched ability to deliver a hot punch line with universal appeal, Fire continues to light up the comedy world. Fire was last heard as the voice of Lil D on the Cartoon Network‘s Class of 3000.

Erica Watson Originally from Chicago, Erica Watson is a stand-up comedienne and film/ television director living in NYC. In 2009, Erica Watson will appear in the Lee Daniel‘s film ―PUSH‖ opposite Mo‘nique, Lenny Kravitz, Sherri Sheppard and Paula Patton. Earlier this year, Watson starred in the 20th Century Fox theatrical release ―Dirty Laundry‖ and she is currently featured in two commercials for the Oxygen Network called ―Tresstify‖ and ―Kiss & Tell‖. Most recently, Watson was a featured commentator/pundit on 3 different BET Specials: ―The Evolution of Mary J. Blige‖, ―I Wanna Thank My Momma‖, and ―The Evolution of Jay-Z‖. Because of her views on politics and pop culture, Watson is a recurring panelist on the BETJ talk show ―My Two Cents.‖ Watson is also the Director of the reality TV Series ―My Model Looks Better Than Your Model‖ on the BETJ Network. When she is not performing at various comedy clubs across the country, you can catch her on the Oxygen Network, MSG-TV and BET.

URL: http://www.ericawatson.com Facebook:

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Tapping into his experiences as a bay area native and drawing inspiration from artists such as Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, and Usher, J. Banks has produced a sound of his own that tells a story ranging from life in the hood to the pains of heartbreak. While many challenge that R&B is inherently tender, J. Banks exemplifies the depth and variety of the genre. Is R&B dead? One track from J. Banks proves that he is the answer! Check out J-Banks "Miss Reality Star" Video on Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watchv=_WvVgNADR7c&feature=autoshare Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/jbanks4real Website: http://www.jbanksonline.com Management: Omolara Entertainment @ 415-678-6000

J. Banks The streets of East Oakland, CA are renowned for begetting hardened souls and criminal activity, hardly the birthing place of an R&B singer. J. Banks defies limitations placed on him by skeptics and critics alike, to produce a sound so profoundly unique, that one would be hard pressed to not take notice. As a boy, he discarded his talent for sports, deciding that the world he hails from would look more favorably upon a young black athlete. However, his affinity for the art and his undeniable gift led him down the path of music, where he has remained ever since. Jamie, first began to realize his dream of being a singer with his first R & B group called Shadow. He gained more confidence while performing for family and winning various talent shows, such as Apollo in the City and Kimball‘s Bay Area Talent Search. He has since gone on to open up for groups such as Tony Tone Toni, Chico Debarge, Dave Hollister, Montell Jordan and later in Vegas @ the Aladdin, Fitzgerald‘s, The Hop, Yoshi‘s in Sf and various shows all over the West Coast. He has matured into an incredibly talented singer and exceptional songwriter. J. Banks has been featured with and called upon to sing hooks and background vocals with top Bay Area artists such as Mistah F.A.B., Mugzi of Sic Wid It, Yung Lott, San Quinn, Peanut of MGM Game/Thizz Ent, D- Lo, Erk The Jerk, Clyde Carson of The Team, and Turf Talk, not to mention- —c -countless producers such as Deandre Griffin (Keyshia Cole, Deborah Cox, Pink) and Tyquan (E-40, Keak Da Sneak, Turf Talk).

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Avery Smith (New York, NY) - Atlantic Records Recording Artist Willie Taylor of the multi-platinum group DAY26 introduces R&B artist AVREY SMITH. Avrey made his National TV debut on BET 106 & Park Wild Out Wednesday, performing his charttopping iTunes single "Inked Up". Already building a huge fan base amongst his core audience, Avrey has been asked to return to the Wild Out Wednesday stage. Avrey Smith is the first artist to be released on Willie's label, NOIVAK Music. "I am very excited and proud to introduce to the world the talented Avrey Smith," says Willie. "Its been a long time coming to get the Noivak Music movement off the ground, but its happening and we are very happy. The sky is the limit for me, especially right now, as we are adding finishing touches to the third DAY26 upcoming album entitled "A New Day" and a new single coming shortly...I really can't complain," he adds.

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Determined to provide society with realistic and relatable music, Avrey Smith has only scratched the surface of his musical endeavors. With his attention-grabbing dance moves and soothing melodies, Avrey envelops his audience while also taking them on an emotional journey. Hailing from the western suburbs of Chicago, Illinois, this 21-year-old has drawn inspiration from his life experiences and the world around him. Just like many of his counterparts, Avrey grew up singing in church at a very young age. This was extremely instrumental in not only defining him as a vocalist but also enhancing his appreciation for his passion, music. ―Growing up with my father, who was a church choir director, having a mother who sang, and singing in church at the tender age of 8, all made it quite obvious that I was destine to be a musician,‖ said the R&B singer. ―From my very first performance, I knew I had to be an entertainer,‖ he added. Eager to pursue every avenue within the music world, Avrey decided to become a technically trained instrumentalist. Influenced by jazz legends such as Slide Hampton and J.J. Johnson; Avrey began playing the trombone at age 11. It was also at this time that he discovered yet another hidden talent and of love of his. In an attempt to emulate one of his idols, Michael Jackson, Avrey grasped the attention of many through his incredible ability to dance. Before he knew it, Avrey was enrolled in hip-hop classes with some of the top-notch choreographers in the Chicagoland area. Now standing at 6 feet, 5 inches, Avrey is sure to catch your eye while on the dance floor, not only because of his stature, but also through his intense yet gracious body movements. Whether it is by way of his music or his motions Avrey Smith makes one thing blatantly clear. He possesses a unique style and he will stay true to himself. ―Performing is what I live for, but I also understand that I am my own person. I do what I love and that is to entertain. But no matter the circumstance, I will never sacrifice who I am to do what I love,‖ Avrey said. Currently a freshman music business major in college, Avrey understands the importance of both entertainment and education. ―Advancing my knowledge and understanding of my craft will allow me to go further in music and in life. That‘s what I love about college. It offers so much opportunity to grow as a musician and as a human-being,‖ said the up and coming R&B sensation. His positive attitude and genuine personality can be felt with just one listen of his music. The young and the old, males and females, everyone can connect through Avrey‘s captivating lyrics and smooth sound. With his whole life ahead of him, Avrey Smith will certainly continue to supply us all with quality music and breath-taking dance moves for years to come. ―No matter what lies in the future, I will always keep it all about the music.‖

Born DeM'arcus DaShawn Miller June 4th 1987 The Dominican/African American Artist DaShawn Has Made a Huge impact into the R&B World, gaining more and more Fans everyday with his smooth mellow voice along with a nice image. DaShawn music style is similar to 90's R&B Artist such as H-town, Jodeci, Silk and so on. DaShawn who has been singing since the age of 12 plans to bring the 90's R&B style music back but with a up to date sound. Only 23 years of Age DaShawn has independently released two singles "All Night Long" and "Can U Handle it". Both songs made it on to the Top 100 R&B Singles on many internet sites. DaShawn music has been featured on many websites and Radio Stations. With over 20,000 ring-tone downloads. In 2010 DaShawn was a nominee for two awards (Best R&B Artist & Best Overall Artist) in The 2010 Central Texas Music awards. DaShawn is a very driven, hard working artist with A great attitude towards the music business and the will to continue to learn and grow as an artist/person.

iTUNES Link to "INKED UP" by AVREY SMITH http://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/avrey-smithid437600110

follow AVREY SMITH on twitter @AvreySmithMusic, www.noivakmusic.com or www.avreysmithmusic.com.

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UNBELIEVABLE! is your brand new third (fifth if one's keeping score!) solo LP -- That said, why do you feel this particular title resonates so well with you? That's what my fans chose. I gave them a chance to choose between Enough is Enough or Unbelievable!...And, my life is just unbelievable right now. Coming off of 2010's comeback disc, Who Knew?, from a sales standpoint were you at all disappointed in the overall outcome of that disc? No, I wasn't upset or disappointed. I feel very blessed to be able to have given my fans some new music from me to listen to, and that's what it's all about. Also, it could have done better sales-wise with better promotion. What makes UNBELIEVABLE! different from previous Keke Wyatt releases? I'm at a happier point in my life, so I actually enjoyed recording the songs on this album, and I had a lot of input in selecting the songs for this album.

Keke Wyatt: Still Standing By: Todd Davis Ketara "Keke" Wyatt first rose to prominence after

appearing alongside singer-songwriter Avant on their mesmerizing duet, "My First Love," which eventually led to her gold certified MCA Records' debut, Soul Sista. From there, and after departing from her former imprint for popular Hip-Hop label Cash Money, the native Indianapolis, Indiana, songstress began recording tracks for what was, then, to become her highly anticipated sophomore set, Emotional Rollercoaster. Sadly, Hurricane Katrina happened but, unfortunately, the record never did. When the dust finally settled, Wyatt found a welcoming home at, now defunct, TVT, where she quickly started on a new project that was to be called Ghetto Rose. In the midst of putting together that album, Keke suffered yet another harsh blow. TVT would go on to file bankruptcy after losing a lawsuit to Florida based Slip-n-Slide Records over rapper Pitbull. In 2010, Keke Wyatt finally re-surfaced with the commercially ignored Who Knew?, her first entry in nearly a decade. And now, just a little over one year later, the 29 year old newly re-married mother of three has rebounded with the appropriately entitled magnum opus, UNBELIEVABLE!...

The set's lead offering, "Saturday Love," is a remake of the Alexander O'Neal/Cherelle classic of the same name, sung with American Idol season two winner Ruben Studdard -- Tell me all about this particular track and how it actually came to fruition? Well, my lawyer asked me to do this track as a favor to him, because he really loves the song. and, Ruben and myself have been wanting to work together for some time now, so I called him up and told him I had a song for us to do and we made it happen. I like it! It is a cute song. Ruben did his thing on it as well! Do you have a (ny) personal favorite song(s) on UNBELIEVABLE!? If so, why that/those specific one (s)? "Tears in Heaven" is my fave on the album. "Tears in Heaven" has been a fave song of mine since I was a kid. I even remember begging my dad to buy me the Eric Clapton "Tears in Heaven" cassette tape. Production-wise, who exactly did you work with on the record? Shep Crawford, Steve Morales, Jesus Bobe, JR Hutson, and some hot new up and comers. From a song-writing stand-point, when you sit down to compose where do you find inspiration? My Life! What do you feel has been the ultimate key to your success?

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GOD'S blessing to me...My voice! (That) has been the ultimate key! I understand that you're getting ready to enter the world of reality television with the, still in the works, R&B Housewives -- Thus far, what can you reveal or divulge about this upcoming venture? Well, it is coming soon! It's not gonna be called R&B Housewives. It's a James DuBose production, and whatever he touches is golden! Besides, of course, that new TV show, is there anything else that you are looking to branch out and do, futuristic-ally speaking? I just partnered up with the NATIONAL COALITION AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE [N.C.A.D.V.] in the worldwide fight against domestic violence, as their national spokesperson, and our goal is to "MAKE EVERY HOME A SAFE HOME!" [ed.note: In 2001, Wyatt was arrested on Christmas Day for stabbing her ex-husband/then manager, Rahmat Morton. She was charged with second-degree assault, but Morton later dropped the charges.] Where do you see yourself in the next five to ten years? In homes all over the world via TV, CD players, MP3, iPod, Internet, etcetera. As for now though, what's next for Ms. Ketara Wyatt? Promoting this new album, the reality show, and being a loving mommy to my beautiful children. Also, enjoying life with my new husband! Is there anything else I left out or just plain forgot to mention? Oh, yeah, I'm starring in a play by Rob Jackson titled When Love Ain't Enough. It will be coming to a city near you soon! Any message for the readers of RapStar Magazine? And, for the readers of RapStar Magazine, go out and support the movement to bring real R&B back to the forefront by buying my new album UNBELIEVABLE!! Follow Keke Wyatt: MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/kekewyatt Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/KekeWyattSings Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/KekeWyatt/104012409634648

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For starters, let's talk this brand new fourth solo collection, P.S. I Love Me -- Conceptually, what does that title represent? I titled this album p.s. iLove Me because iScrapped the whole Tattoos & Roses project. iRealized that my foundation and sound wasn't what iWanted it to be. iLike to base my songs off love. What better way to revamp and start by loving myself first, before iEven think about loving anyone or anything else. It's all about the confidence and esteem iHad to build up within myself to have the audacity to make a return in this ever changing music business. How do you feel that P.S. I Love Me either differs and/or compares to previous Lil' Mo releases? p.s. iLove Me doesn't really differ. It's classic Lil' Mo. I've grown so much musically, mentally, vocally, spiritually and all that, so you will always hear and feel the growth with each project iRelease. I'm very simple. iSing and say what people want to hear. Never too shallow. Just good consistent sangin'! *Mo giggles* The set's lead offering, "On The Floor," is starting to make quite a bit of noise for you -- Did you expect such a fast response? And, how did the track itself actually come to fruition?

"Lil' Mo" By: Todd Davis

Cynthia "Lil' Mo" Loving has had more than her fair share of career highs and lows. The now 33 years young Long Island, New York, by way of Baltimore, Maryland, songbird first rose to prominence with an array of high profile hit collaborations; i.e., Missy Elliott's "Hot Boyz," "Parking Lot Pimpin'" by Jay-Z, Next's "Wifey" and "Put It On Me," alongside both Ja Rule and Vita, before eventually unleashing her very own then highly anticipated solo debut, Based on a True Story [Elektra Records], in April 2001. Fueled by the set's Fabolous featured lead entry, "Superwoman Pt. II," Mo's premiere outing eventually sold well over 500,000 copies. Its followup, '03's Meet the Girl Next Door, although suffering from a major lack of promotions from the label, still produced a pair of chart-topping singles; "4Ever," with another brilliant assist from Loso, and the Lil' Kim guested "Ten Commandments." Pain & Paper, her third studio set, panned by fans and critics alike, arrived in August 2007... Two failed deals and an equal amount of pushed-back albums later, and the self-proclaimed "Godmother" is finally back with, arguably, her best work-to-date...

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Thank You. iDecided to take the summer/party anthem approach. Whenever you take a hiatus, the best way to gauge how you should return is by the way you can rock a party. So, iCalled Fatman Scoop and sent him the record, because he is the party fire starter! iKnew our combo would be undeniable. So much so, we are doing a lot more records together. They ain't ready! From a production stand-point, who all did you get a chance to work with this go 'round? This go 'round, iKept it ALL in house. The less people iHad to deal with, the better. A lot of producers aren't humble. They act like they are doing me a favor. I'll pass. B-boys and Writerz Blok did my whole album. All family! All we got is us. Are there any planned cameo appearances? Yes, but of course! Tweet, Dawn Richard of Dirty Money, Maino, Fatman Scoop, PJ Morton...Those are all my family! Yep, they all looked out for me in a major way. From a lyrical perspective, when you sit down to write where do you draw your inspiration(s) from? iDont write anything down anymore. It all comes from the heart. We made it our business to GO GREEN with this album. No paper in the studio! What inspired me was that iLook around at my blessings and it makes me want to sing. My children mean the world to me, so with them in the studio watching me inside the booth gave me so much inspiration. Coming off of 2007's Pain & Paper, were you somewhat disappointed or let down that the album didn't do better from a commercial stand-point? Where do you think things actually went awry? I'm never disappointed about anything. Pain & Paper doesn't exist to me anymore. Too much business mess was associated with that whole process. It's all about p.s. iLove ME right now.

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As you already briefly touched on, there were also talks of a follow-up, Tattoos & Roses: The Rebellion Against My Pain, which of course never surfaced... As I said in the beginning, iWasn't satisfied with how it was turning out. So, iScrapped the whole project...Hence the album p.s. iLove ME was being born. That said, besides the new project, what all had/have you been up to, both personally and professionally, during your extended musical hiatus? I've been taking care of my personal business. Making sure my priorities are all in order. iHad an on-air afternoon drive show in the DMV called the Lil' Mo Show for one year. iAlso had the great opportunity to perform for two weeks in The Color Purple play when it came to D.C.. Also doing shows, and having fun living life and planning my great comeback.

Is there anything I left out or just plain forgot to mention? iHave an amazing website thelilmoshow.com where iBlog, and sell my amazing t-shirts and perfume. As well as my free mix CDs, p.s. iLove YOU. This is the prelude to the album p.s. iLove ME. Follow me on twitter @thelilmoshow, and like my facebook.com/thelilmoshow... Follow Lil' Mo on: MySpace http://www.myspace.com/lilmo Twitter http://twitter.com/#!/THELILMOSHOW Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lil-Mo/109738432382948

Let's talk longevity...What do you feel is and will continue to be the key to your success? iBelieve in God. Without him nothing will last. Nothing! So with that, everyone who wrote me off or wished me dead, can forget about it. It ain't over till God says it's over! Do you have any additional/outside aspirations, maybe even completely away from entertainment? iAm Music. So if someone paid me 20 million dollars to quit singing, iMay just take the money and run and just watch Rosetta Stone and learn mad different languages and finally learn how to swim or something. Are you happy with the current state of R&B? Yes, I'm ecstatic, because now is the time real artists and singers are NEEDED! That's why I'm baaaaaaaack! *She laughs out loud* You basically started out as the "Queen of the Hooks," but as of late haven't really contributed something to others' works? Do you have anything planned or coming up soon with any of your fellow peers and friends in the biz? No. iDon't want to work with anyone else but myself right now. Not being facetious, but I'm over singing with and for everybody. There are a few iWould do stuff with, but iDon't even want to put it out there 'cause they know whenever they call iGot em. Then, there are some iWill NEVER part my lips to hum a note on their mess! But for real, iKeep my friendships and business totally separate. I've learned. Looking ahead, say, maybe, five or even ten years from now, where do you see yourself? iWant to be still considered one of the greatest and underrated, under appreciated, but most of all I'm UNstoppable! I'll take that, rather than being over-exposed. We off that. As for the immediate future, what's next for Lil' Mo? iJust want to get this album out and make it do what it do. I'm in the best place and position in my life right now. So wherever this season takes me, I'm finally ready. Yep, I'm ready!

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Minneapolis, Minnesota, R&B collective Next, comprised of Robert "R.L." Huggar and biological brothers, Terry "T-Low" & Raphael "Tweet" (now known as Prince Raphael Shawan) Brown, first stepped onto the music scene way back in August 1997 with their gold-selling lead single, "Butta Love." Initially founded by Prof-T and Lance Alexander of Lo -Key? fame, Next would then go on to link up with Naughty By Nature deejay/producer KayGee, who would soon sign the singing trio to his now defunct Divine Mill production company. It was actually through this connection that ultimately brought the fellas to the attention of industry impresario, Clive Davis, who immediately inked the group to his reputable Arista label. Next released their much-heralded, double-platinum debut, Rated Next, which spawned two additional hit entries; the massive "Too Close," a three-plus million seller in and of itself, and "I Still Love You," in the fall of that very same year. Their gold certified follow-up, Welcome II Nextasy, arrived a little more than two and a half years later, landing Next their second signature smash, "Wifey." Their third and final LP, The Next Episode, again recorded under the supervision of Davis, this time for his, then newly launched, J Records imprint, dropped in December '02. Since that time a whole hell of a lot has changed. In the past eight-plus years, R.L. embarked on a semisuccessful solo run, whilst Prince Raphael [Tweet] left the fold entirely, only to recently return. To add insult to injury, Next, as a whole, signed two separate

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ill-fated recording contracts; one with G-Unit/ Interscope, another with Mathew Knowles' Music World Entertainment, and T-Low suffered a careerthreatening throat condition, which has since been corrected successfully through surgery. With summer 20-11 quickly approaching, let it be known that Next is finally back, and R.L., T-Low and Prince Raphael Shawan [Tweet] are already 5 tracks deep into their long overdue fourth studio collection, Music 101. In other Next related news, R.L. literally just came out with a mix-tape EP called The Return Of The Voice, with his still untitled sophomore solo outing soon to follow suit, while both Prince Raphael [Tweet] and T-Low are also prepping their own individual bodies of work as well. In addition to all of that, Next will soon be embarking on a major nationwide tour, with dates to be announced in the coming weeks. "We are giving the world that raw R&B we are known for. Stellar vocals, clever lyrics, and harmony that will move any audience," Prince Raphael [Tweet] announces, sounding elated that his crew are back and in full effect mode. Pausing for a quick second, he then concludes, "Our performance game has elevated with our maturity and experiences." For All Serious Booking Inquiries/Requests Regarding Next, Please Contact: 310-770-5089

Follow Next On Twitter: http://twitter.com/NEXTISHERE http://twitter.com/TweetsbyTweet http://twitter.com/TLowFromNext

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His love then transformed upon paper, thus his writing skills and voice combination received him much recognition. Hence, his single ―Beautiful‖ has been featured on various shows on MTV and VH1. He performed this single live on BET's 106& Park. And, it has been on the soundtrack of several independent films, including ―Love Is Where You Find It‖ by Victor Jones, ―Here I Am‖ by Clyde Lewis, and ―Love‘s Triangle‖ by Antonio Lacey. His single ―Beautiful‖ was written to express his love and admiration of women and was actually written overseas during travel to the wonderful island of Jamaica. JeBron has collaborated on singing, songwriting, and production with such artists as Wingo of Jagged Edge, V.I.C, and B Angie B. JeBron has two standout EP‘s: ―Key 2 Life‖ and ―Time of My Life Chapter 1‖. Online magazine, Soul Treasures describes ―Beautiful‖ as a melodic yet emotional mid tempo R&B.

Jebron Jebron does not follow the leader, but sets trends effortlessly, he does not limit himself to the standard. With R&B as his foundation, he built upon and mastered writing, composing, and arranging various genres of music. This is noted in his singles ―I Got It‖ Hip/Rock/Soul, ―Beautiful‖ Soul R&B, and ―Celebrate Life‖ Pop Soul Fusion. Always looking for the newest innovative way to keep evolving with life, I give you, JeBron. He notes, all I can remember is that ―I could always sing‖. He says ―music was his way to a peace of mind and to cope with the struggles of life as a young man raised by a single mother‖. As long as JeBron had music, he had ambition, and an admiration to keep going in life. Just like the next man with brilliance comes sacrifice. With great power comes responsibility. Once JeBron connected those dots, he was able to emerge into not only a phenomenal musician, but a fine young man. Born in small town called Waukegan, IL, JeBron was destined to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather whom was an awesome singer. At a very young age, JeBron began singing constantly where his love of music began from listening to his mother playing, singing, and dancing to all of the greats (i.e. Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, and Whitney Houston). Upon moving to Atlanta, GA, he then built upon his singing in attending Tri-City High School and attending the Atlanta Music Institute. Although self-taught he sought out and trained under world renowned vocal coach, Robin Brown whom coached such soulful artists, Michelle Ferrell, Johnny Gill, TLC, and Pebbles of LaFace). He also taught himself music production, how to play the keyboard, and the guitar.

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In August 2009, JeBron made his acting debut as a music producer in the film, ―Love Is Where You Find It‖ by Victor Jones and ―Here I Am‖ by Clyde Lewis. Showing his versatility in the area of film production, JeBron also played a key role in the development of his ―Beautiful‖ video. Aside from making music JeBron enjoys being involved in the community volunteering with Dallas Austin‘s ―Don‘t Stop the Music Program‖, Make a Wish Foundation, and Maise Cancer Awareness Project (Men's breast cancer fundraiser). And, he enjoys cooking gourmet dishes, and believes to eat right, and think right, is part of living right. His upcoming projects include song placement on an upcoming VH1 Reality Show and TV series for USA called Suits (formerly A Legal Mind). He will be performing live at "Steve Harvey's Hoodie Awards" August 11-15th, 2011. JeBron's Debut Album "Time Of My Life - Full Circle" will be released soon. Also, Zhe Magazine is featuring JeBron in their national/international magazine and he is one of the special guest artists in their upcoming Magazine Release Celebration in Atlanta in which he will be performing his upcoming single "Celebrate Life". Also, he just completed his Mixed CD entitled, ―JeBron‘s Chronicles - Tales from the Dirty ―A‖ available for free download on jebronmusic.com. He has been featured in "Rolling Out", "Creative Loafing", "Grown Folks Music", "Nu-Soul Music", and "Soul Tracks". ―Celebrate Life‖, which will be on his debut album was written to inspire and encourage everyone to look at the positive no matter what is going on. JeBron says to ―Treat everyday like it is a Friday or Saturday‖. JeBron quotes ―I love music!!!!‖ Rather singing, writing or composing in life, I am an instrument harmonically revolving & evolving in our world. So, I humbly invite you on this journey, as I share with you the most intimate part of me.

Follow Jebron on: Website: http://jebronmusic.com/Home.aspx Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/jebronmusic Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/jebronmusic Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jebronmusic

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Amen-Ra Valentine

JKeyz

Dedication is the first word that comes to mind when describing 25 year old Amen-Ra Valentine. He is a multitalented singer, songwriter, dancer & performer that is passionate about everything he does. He has graced the stage dancing with or choreographing some of the biggest artist in Hip Hop & R&B. Amen-Ra‘s exceptional talents have led him to work with such recording artists as Mary J. Blige, Jay-Z, Salt n‘ Pepa and Sting. Utilizing his dance experience as a foundation, Amen-Ra began to focus his efforts on other aspects of the industry. At age 17, he started a small company called Amen Ra Entertainment, which functioned as a casting agency for young up-and-coming dancers, singers, actors, and models.

The prolific producer and songwriter, with RIAA gold and platinum certification plaques still accumulating [Pink's first hit single 'Can't Take Me Home' 4x platinum, 98 Degrees and more], and an artist that received a 2011 Stellar Award for New Artist of the Year, has finally stepped from behind the boards and up to the microphone. Having also worked with a variety of people from Puff Johnson to Timothy Wright, he has scored hits that rest easily on Billboard's charts and is poised to do so with his own napalm.

Tommy Boy Records recognized Amen-Ra‘s interest and skill in developing talent, and it commissioned him to develop and choreograph their newly signed pop sensation Amber. Amen-Ra has since done artist development and choreography for Arista Records and J Records with their R&B groups. Amen-Ra has also choreographed for established artists Joe, Kelly Rowland, LL Cool J, Shannon, and the list goes on. Amen Ra now has taken all the knowledge that he has used to develop other artists, to hone his own skills as a singer/ songwriter, whom combined with his dance & performance skills leaps him into the path of stardom. Being an amazing dancer enhances all of his performances. Some of his latest accomplishments include being featured in the hit movie ―Step Up 3D‖. On his upcoming album, AmenRa‘s collaborations with some of the tops names in the game such as producer Al West and Producer/Singer JKeyz will make waves to hit Billboard charts. A variety of dance floor hits to love making music for the ladies, it is impossible to deny this superstar in the making.

Born and bred in the People's Republic of Brooklyn, JKeyz brings the heat in this incredible body of work entitled "My Journey" the Mixtape, to pave the way for his 2011 album release, "Reflections" which will be a complete 180 degree turn from this work. Versatility doesn't begin to call it... Delving into real life events, his pen game is wicked and his music production is above stellar, with 95% of the songs on this "mix tape" being original music. Coupled with a few guest appearances which include the sultry former adult film star India, the sizzling Bronx rapper, actor/director Trae Ireland [Zane's Sex Chronicles on Cinemax], Young Street and the HipRock artist Summah Le'on, this mixtape is surely above reproach. Take a peek into the life of JKeyz with this insightful and intense story molded out of infectious Pop and R&B tunes sure to move many. His Spring 2012 debut album "Reflection" will be available on SERUM Music.

www.facebook.com/Jkeyzmusic www.facebook.com/SERUM.Music @TheRealJKeyz @Serum_Music

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Omarion also hits you with 2 cover songs in tribute to the late Aaliyah and Jodeci which were just fine without his efforts. Sometimes leaving things as is; is paying homage also. This mix tape has Omarion or Luke Skywalker; looking more like, Pete Puma trying to catch something to eat on, but leaving with lumps. Looks like it‘s back to the lab. Because this is a mix tape no-no. I refuse to give it a 1 out of 10; because DJ Drama and guest didn‘t have the album for their selves.

L.C.D. L.C.D., born Keith King, was raised on the streets of K.C., Mo. Bangin & Grittin in the early 90's seemed to be much more in his heart than going to school & getting a job. Therefore, like a majority in his generation, a first degree robbery/A.C.A. case put him away for 9 yrs, while incarcerated L.C.D. wrote over 500 songs, while working as a G.E.D. tutor in the prison college. Coming home in Dec.'03 and finally recording music in the summer of '06 (CASKET PROOF ENT.) L.C.D is quickly becoming known as a LYRICAL GENIUS in the fast moving infamous Mid-West underground music scene. W i t h prisons all over Missouri anticipating that the world will soon hear & feel what they have.....a real street credibility, authentic style, serious thought and craft of his mental is caught all in the swag of his words. With street hits like, TAKE DAT PILL, THUMP A HATER OFF, and U AINT READY FOR ME, the debut C.D. is becoming more & more anticipated.......FETTI BOY GANG presents L.C.D.

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Omarion Is Awake, but will his following be?

It‘s Dr.Roqs you suckas! Twitter:@DrRoqs www.facebook.com/Dr.Roqs

By: Ty (Dr.Roqs) Fouse When it comes to R&B and Pop music, if you mention the name Omarion; thoughts of tremendous dance tracks just might start to roll through your mind. Since the artist has taken a time out to gather his thoughts and make it back into the studios for another album release, he has decided to recruit the help of ―Mr. Thanksgiving‖ DJ Drama and his ―Gangsta Grillz” series. If you heard the needle screeches sound on the vinyl or thinking ―How is this going to work?‖ I was with you. In the intro to this mix tape Omarion takes a few seconds to introduce you to his alter ego of the rap game ―Luke Skywalker‖. He is telling you here that he is performing his life on Compact Disc. The track ―Luke Skywalker‖; shows you that Omarion is not afraid to take risks; displaying his flow with a certified feature of the Wu-Tang great Method Man. He gives his all on this one to get you into the Jedi flow and goes back into what his lane is R&B. ―Battle‖ ft. Red Café; shows you that the auto tune option is not out of the equation; almost if to say I can do that too. Yet, I was still looking for Omarion. The ballad ―Guilty‖ is the cry of heartbreak; yet it wasn‘t that same Omarion that had me singing ―O‖; to the ladies because he set the mood for it to go down. ―Clap Yo Hands‖ ft. Sonnie O and Rye Rye; Luke returns and the force isn‘t with him. ―Beg‖ was close but lost me with the “Jodeci – Cry for you” crooning. But he did catch me on a grown folks certified cut called; ―Puerto Rico‖ featuring Lil Eddie. This track made me want to step it out with or without a partner ―Ya Dig?‖ but 2 minutes and 32 seconds was a tease.

Manifest Manifest, he's a rare commodity, a powerhouse with artistic and street credibility, making him one of East coast raps' most distinctive up and coming talents. Using his life experiences as the fuel to spark the flames representing his life struggle, Manifests' hardcore lyrics and aggressive swag captivates and paints images of the brutal reality of growing up in the streets of New York. He creates rhymes that capture the attention of younger generations in hopes of enforcing the importance of education. Developing a passion for music from birth, the mix of Reggae, Soca, Jazz and Salsa filled the air of his childhood home. Manifest developed

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his musical skills when he realized his knack for rhyming and began experimenting with different formulas. Listening to various DJ's like DJ Red Alert, helped him hone his MC, writing and producing skills, ultimately choosing music as a career. The MC battled whoever was brave to step up. With word spreading through the streets of this linguistic genius, it didn't take long for him to attract the attention of various mixtape DJ's. Manifest has collaborated with DJ's such as: Don Damarco of Desert Storm, DJ Honda, DJ Scratches, DJ Hurricane, DJ Simonsez, DJ N.O., DJ Cassius Clay and promoter Master Moo. Manifest has also worked with artists such as: Harlem Red, Mysonne, Quess, E Hustle, just to name a few. Soon Manifest came together with DJ Honda, which resulted in the creation of the multi-platinum record featuring the hit songs "The Eclipse" and "We Don't Play". This took Manifest on tour in Japan. Now, back in the states, Manifest is going hard body in the studio, currently working on his highly anticipated mixtape project slated for summer 2011 hosted by the legendary DJ Cool V. For booking and interviews, contact Juicy Media Group at promo@juicymediagroup.com. Support and follow The Real Manifest! Support and follow The Real Manifest! Follow Him On Twitter: www.twitter.com/TheRealManifest Support good music on iTunes! itunes.apple.com/us/artist/manifest/id20131940

Add Him On Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheRealManifest Music on www.reverbnation.com/TheRealManifest

P-Coat Prescott P-Coat Prescott a.k.a. The Mouthpiece of the bay was born in San Francisco, raised in Richmond and now resides in the city of Vallejo. In his younger years Prescott did his fair share of dirt; pimping, robbing and fighting was his pedigree. He watched a lot of his friends become statistics, either from violence or jail. In fact, he had his own run in with violence in 1996; he was shot in Richmond‘s notorious Rumrill Gardens from a dice game gone bad. He knew there had to be a better way. 10yrs and a lot of hard work later he landed a deal with Interscope/fortknox records and has rocked many shows and done countless collab-creations with many of the Bay‘s artists known and unknown. From the Bay to L.A, Atlanta, Houston, and even England, the Bay is hyphy but P-Coat brings more to the table--he‗s shall we say a ―LIL Different.‖ Those that know him love him. For those that don‘t, they will soon find out what all the buzz is about. Representing the entire SF/Oak Bay Area, The man, like papa…is a rolling stone. He will become one of your favorite SF/Oak Bay area representatives. .. ..

V-White & The Politician V-White is best known as half of the Oakland act The Delinquents. After signing with Priority Records in the 90s, he released the classic ―Bosses will be Bosses‖ and ―That Man.‖ He has also worked with hip-hop notables such as Snoop Dogg, Mack 10, Master P and Too Short. Big Zeke The Politician wears many hats, often taking on the roles of producer, writer and rapper. He has worked with countless artists and has established himself as one of the best producers in the Bay Area. Too Short is also responsible for introducing V-White and The Politician eight years ago, enabling the two artists to forge a musically creative relationship.

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BO$$-B Nesto The Owner Ernesto Edwards better known as Nesto The Owner, was born on May 12, 1987. He is originally from Philadelphia and came to Kansas City, after his father became very sick and his mother began to suffer from depression; so they decided to move closer to family. Moving to Kansas City made Nesto a lyrical beast. He started off spittin' raps in his basement with his group members "L-cannon," "Future," and his brother "EV-Clusive." They stayed in a group for about 2 years, but creative differences and growth split them apart. Yet growing up in Philly made Nesto a punch-line slash battle rapper. After being in Kansas City other rapper's began to listen to Nesto's music, and even asked him to be on there album's. So far he's been featured on Tech N9ne's Sickology 101 and Bad Season. He's also been on Kutt Calhoun's Raw and un-Kutt. Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=np8SrPF0U8s

Man in my city remix song. Click on the link.

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Jah Stone

BO$$-B the name speaks for it's self, although he's small in statue, his presence an vocal delivery demands your attention like no other! born at home in the Bedford- Stuyvesant area of Brooklyn New York, to an young inspiring MC Shirl Da Pearl, Hip Hop meant everything in his house hold. by the age of ten BO$$-B done lived in all of the five boughs of the big apple before moving to south Texas to escape the harsh street life his mother and siblings once lived. This dramatic change was no easy task....moving in the heart of the notorious urban east side of San Antonio TX a former housing project called SUTTON HOMES will be home for the rapper for the remainder of his childhood. while growing up there BO$$-B was introduce to southern hip hop and slanglistic as it surrounded him, outside an while inside his very outspoken Brooklyn native family helped framed him into the man he is to day. BO$$-B is not just your average and or ordinary rapper, he is a mc, poet and lyricist who has touch many of lives with his poetry and music thus far, having already thousands of die hard fans on both the east coast an third coast, due to his dynamic blending of cultures this makes him his own, yet still being compared to top rap stars like... Ludacris, T.I, Tupac & Andre 3000 over flowing with a burst of today's energy and a SWAGNIFIENCET southern delivery that draws you in, SO LOOK OUT WORLD BO$$-B is and always will be a force to be reckon with!

Jah Stone is a young, talented and unique individual with an ear for music beyond his years. Hailing from the great city of Atlanta ,GA, Jah Stone began writing and developing his skills in 2005. Growing up, the only rap music his parents exposed him to was the rap of the 1980‘s. Stone developed his true ear for Hip-Hop writing cover songs over the lyrics and beats of Old School classics such as ―My Adidas‖ by Run-DMC and ―Rock The Bells‖ by LL Cool J. Once his father found out that he was writing explicit raps throughout high school, he wasn't too fond of his son's new "hobby". Unable to locate anywhere to record, Stone continued to develop his writing skills. His biggest aspect on Rap is concepts, ―In 9th grade I got introduced to N.W.A, and it changed everything for me. I fell in love with free expression and out of the box concepts, Eminem had always been my favorite rapper, and he‘s known for his concepts, but this kinda amplified my already out of the box thinking.‖ It wasn‘t until his sophomore year in college that Jah Stone recorded his first Mixtape, ―Airplane Mode‖, which contained a lot of hidden innuendo. ―I named it Airplane Mode because this is just the start, I‘m now on my musical plane and I‘m taking off, I‘m not landing until I retire and it‘s also a metaphor for being ‗lifted‘, I like to express my love for ―herbal therapy‖. His latest project ―A.C.I.D‖ which stands for ―All Creations Induce Determination‖ is an amplified mixtape full of his true talents.

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―A.C.I.D" was very random. I was just listening to these off the wall sounding beats and my mind just went off on a whole different lyrical spiral. To me, the beat is like a voice in my head that tells me what to do, and when I listen, I make good music.‖ Jah Stone is known for his swift lyrics, unique flow, and style and song concepts. According to him, one of his dreams is to work with one of his favorite artists, Curren$y and possibly ink a deal with Jet Life Recordings. Jah Stone is a very ambitious artist and really has something to offer Hip-Hop. Links: http://www.twitter.com/realjahstone http://www.reverbnation.com/jahstone http://www.mwzikmakerinc.bandcamp.com

Dezert Eagel Dezert Eagel, born Markens Aristilde is a local underground rapper/lyricist from Salisbury, Maryland, also known as Solar Wing and Lone Wolf Eagel. He first came on the scene in 2008 as a new artist on Dj Green Lantern‘s ―Myspace Invasion Series‖ mixtape as well as Coast 2 Coast‘s ―Independent Hustler― mixtape volume.8. Dezert Eagel is now breaking out on the Hip Hop scene with his debut and highly anticipated LP ―One Day at a Time‖ which can be downloaded for FREE at http://www.mediafire.com/?cqvc7uvav9nub2j.

Moving from Maryland to Florida opened the flood gates for the young Dezert Eagel to be exposed to a variety of local underground artists as well as legendary artists such as the Wu Tang Clan, Nas, The Roots and Common. By the age of 14 he was thought to be a lyrical prodigy by countless cyphers within the Cities of West Palm Beach, Florida, Laurel, Delaware and his neighborhood on West Main Street in Salisbury M a r y l a n d . For the past 7 years Dezert Eagel has continued to finesse his skills writing and developing his style along the Eastern Shores of Maryland with MG Records, Aystarz mixtapes , Dj Green Lantern‘s and Coast 2 Coast‘s mixtapes. Dezert Eagel is also well known for the Internet Hit of 2008 ―GET HIGH‖ which was hosted by Dj Green Lantern on his mixtape ―MySpace Invasion 4‖ produced by Soul Theory Productions. ―The Summer is late and the Winter is early‖ which means that this is just the beginning for this 21 year old Rap prodigy. Twitter

http://twitter.com/DezertEagel

Email Dezerteagle1@gmail.com Facebook Fan Page http://www.facebook.com/pages/ Dezert-Eagel/216802361686881? ref=ts&sk=wall Free Download: “One Day at a Time” http://www.mediafire.com/?cqvc7uvav9nub2j

Reverbnation

http://www.reverbnation.com/dezerteagel

At the early age of 13 the Maryland native moved to Orlando, Florida where he discovered he had a gift for music. Around that time Dezert Eagel was introduced to a new appreciation for music due to the diversity of rhythm and poetry that was prominent in the South Florida Hip Hop scene.

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With the buzz reaching such heights, Charlie Luch was able to secure a prominent role in Chicago artist Jah Rista's movie When Thugs Cry. In addition, Youth of the Ghetto also have their very own clothing line through Label Whore Clothes, and they recently closed their first digital distribution deal with Focus Entertainment, in which they've already released their premiere mix-tape offering entitled When Thugz Make Muzic, available now at: www.yotheg.com. More inkings have since taken place, and Y.O.G./S.B.G. have just embarked on a tour that will soon be headed to a 'hood near you. Stay tuned for dates... Be on the look out as Youth of the Ghetto/Silverback Gang present to the masses...

Youth of the Ghetto Founded by rapper/producer, DJ 45th, Youth of the Ghetto is a Chicago, Illinois, based indie label imprint that was initially formed to give 45th's inner city neighborhood a reason to be proud. Signing his flagship artist, Charlie Luch, who is also the front-man for rap collective Silverback Gang, back in 2006, quickly sparking off a whole Y.O.G./S.B.G. movement for the then burgeoning label. The two combined lethal forces were soon featured numerous times on local media outlets such as WBMZ Board Members Radio, Wright Connectionz Online, a Hip Hop show, and Chi-Town TV station, Channel 19. They were also featured as well on the national online program Phenomenal Radio.

Lady Hurrikane Storm Chasers mix-tape & More Than A Woman EP Charlie Luch 7lbs, 14ounces (Son of Pam) mix-tape & Pam Son album Stone Villian Fire-n-Desire album Get.$$$.Boyz Welcome 2 Da Darkside mix-tape For booking, please call (708) 620-9860 and/or email: silverback_ent@yahoo.com To purchase any music, go to: http://www.yotheg.com/ http://facebook.com/charlie.luch http://facebook.com/CharliesAngelTM http://facebook.com/LadyHurriKan Y0utube: http://www.youtube.com/user/yogtv1

Follow on Twitter: @ DonCharliebaby, @CharliesAngelTM, @ThugoutDiva

Their impressive work ethic and quality product eventually caught the eyes and ears of such notable deejays and producers such as 12Tones, Pyro, 88Keyz, the Grammy Award winning Millz of Track Kingz/Bad Boy Entertainment & Ruff Ryders and DJ Shaun-T. They also managed to become performing favorites in popular local Chicago area clubs such as Exsodus, Adriana's, Tini Martinis, and Mr. G's, to name a few, and sharing the stage with several acts including Young Money's Twist, Beadz, Co-Still, J-Lyne, Mil Ticket of Track Kingz/ Bad Boy, Never and Crucial Conflict's Wildstyle.

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DIRTY EARTHLINGS Stepping on the stage for the first time in 1988, TEXT 1, (age 9) and his brother SNUPH B, (age 6) appeared at the ―Take Back the Streets‖ outdoor concert, in Denver, Co. This media acclaimed event garnered the front pages of the local newspapers and was also the lead story on many of the local television newscasts. All agreed on one point: A young rap duo from Denver had "STOLEN THE SHOW" This began a storm of media attention that climaxed with their being asked to perform at the 1988 ―Budweiser Budfest‖ concert.opening for the ―Buss Boys‖. Over the next several years the boys performed as RAD, and later as The Binz Boyz; recording the theme song for the international hit motion picture ―DOLLY DEAREST‖.

As adults the two emcees changed the group‘s name to ―Dirty Earthlings‖ and decided to create a sound that is just as raw as the name suggests. As the Dirty Earthlings, Text 1 and Snuph have excelled way beyond being nice with the mic having grown into mature song writers and business savvy music producers. The creation of ―Lab Animalz Entertainment‖ Led to ―labanimalz.com‖ which allows both Text 1 and Snuph to contribute beats to their own music as well as various artists in and outside of Las Vegas. The streets of Las Vegas are more than familiar with Text 1 as a local battle champion and with Snuph as an emcee in the now defunct group ―The List Movement‖. Their lyrical exploits have been heard on major radio stations in Los Angeles, St Louis, Orlando, Denver and even in the international markets of London, Amsterdam, Sidney, and Asia. As with other styles of music it is often said that "a good lyric is a strong song" and these guys are definitely swimming toward the deep end of that statement. Anyone listening with EARS will readily admit that SKILLS, SKILLS and more SKILLS are a primary, fundamental feature of this group. The potential of this combination of beats and rhymes is unfathomable. The time is now for Dirty Earthlings and many wonder if the world is truly, really ready.

Relocating to Las Vegas, Nevada in 1992, The Binz Boyz released ―The Mob of Las Vegas‖, which brought them international attention. They changed their name to Blok Rokaz (pronounced Block Rockers) to reflect their ever maturing sound and released ―Kickback‖ and ―This is for the Westside‖ which expanded their fan base and led to performances with the likes of Red Man, Jay-Z, The Five Footas, Razkaz, Immature, RunDMC and Whodini. ready.

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Jizzle is an artist and a DJ for the crew LabRat Nation. In 2008, he was a 2x nominee for the Southern Entertainment Awards for "Best Chop/Screw Mixtape" and "Mixtape Artist of the Year." For 2010, he was also nominated for "Slept On DJ of the Year" and the crew LabRat Nation was nominated for "Indie Record Label of the Year." Jizzle has recently released his free downloadable album "Lynch Me Now" which features artists such as Spark Dawg, Universal Records recording artist Southstar, and of course the LRN crew. The album features production by EL (LRN), Chris P (LRN), and Clinton Walker (MDB). He has done numerous shows in Texas and in Colorado and shows no signs of slowing down. Along with his "Lynch Me Now" EP, Jizzle has also released his mixtape "Screw What You Heard" which has been cosigned by both Chamillionaire and Chalie Boy. It's a new mixtape series he's started that consists of songs people have requested him to chop up. So far it has 1,700+ downloads and just as many listens. He's also chopped up projects for King Koupe (Team Spark-A-Lot), Bigg Redd (Freestyle Kings), and Giovanni (Kingz Ink). Add him on Facebook www.facebook.com/JJizzleLRN Lynch Me Now - http:// www.datpiff.com/J-Jizzle-Lynch-MeNow-Ep-mixtape.205683.html Screw What You Heard - http:// thatcrack.com/mixtapes/dj-j-jizzlescrew-what-you-heard-vol-1/ Stay up to date with the entire LRN crew - www.LRNation.com

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Mr. Complex Mr. Complex, true to his name, is a recording artist, performer, director, actor, burgeoning author and entrepreneur. His diverse artistic output spans several hip hop and film eras. Mr. Complex rose to prominence as an emcee, establishing a cult following in the mid 90s following the release of three critically acclaimed solo albums ―Hold This Down‖, ―Twisted Mister‖, and ―The Complex Catalogue‖. The success of the projects lead him to work with such artists as De La Soul, Mos Def, El-P, Common, and Masta Ace, as well as touring parts of Europe and Asia. He also performed on ―Live from LA‖ on BET and ―Source Sound Lab‖ on UPN alongside Pharoahe Monch. In 1999, he recorded a project with supergroup Polyrhythm Addicts featuring DJ Spinna, Shabaam Shadeeq and Apani B Fly called ―Rhythm Related‖ to critical acclaim. His 2001 single ―Underground Up‖ was featured in the hit movie ―Brown Sugar‖. His latest project with Polyrhythm Addicts called ―Break Glass...‖ was released in 2007. As Trugoy from De La Soul once remarked, ―The engine of his comprehension is just too complex‖.

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In addition to his music career, Mr. Complex received a degree in advertising from New York City Technical College in 1991. Shortly there after, he earned a degree in film studies from the New York Film Academy in 1995, making several student films in the process. Mr. Complex expanded his horizons in the film world as a screenwriting, director, actor, and illustration artist, eventually leading to producing a hip hop game show called ―Hip to the Game‖. He worked in production for the Los Angeles, New York, Nashville and Atlanta leg of ―American Idol‖, the final season of ―Chappelle‘s Show‖, as well as countless films from New York to Albuquerque. Influenced by a range of comedy as broad as Larry David and Spike Lee, his short films have screened at the HBO Film Festival and Martha‘s Vineyard Film Festival. He recently had his four short films ―You Stole My Heart‖, ―Sexting‖, ―Die Laughing‖, and ―Fanatic‖ screen at Maysles Cinema in New York City. His success in films have lead actors as diverse as Vanessa Williams and Will Ferrell appearing in various album skits. Mr. Complex is currently directing his debut full length feature entitled ―Revenge of the Soundman‖ as well as a new solo album entitled ―Forever New‖. For more information on Mr. Complex, please visit his websites mrcomplex.net and yardstickfilm s.com.

POLYRHYTHM ADDICTS BREAK GLASS 1. Poly Poly 2. Smash 3. Kerosene 4. Zonin' Out 5. Reachin' 6. Ugly World 7. The Purist 8. Get Ghost 9. Goin Down 10. Revamp 11. Thoughts Of You 12. We Kno 13. One Chance feat. PLANET ASIA 14. What The Problem Is 15. It's My Life 9 feat. PHONTE 16. Four Corners 17. Zonin' Out (Remix) / Poly Idol This album is a complete mixture of four people involved in the project: Shabaam Sahdeeq, Mr. Complex, DJ Spinna and the brand new female MC who replaced Apani B: Tiye Phoenix. Spinna made noisy and quite interesting tracks, MCs and guests (check Phonte!!) give a good appeal to the vibe of the album. LISTEN: http://www.zshare.net/ download/51459379d0d9ed3e/ BUY: http://www.amazon.com/ Break-Glass-Polyrhythm-Addicts/dp/ B000NI3FL0

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Autumn Twilights is a 6-member hip-hop and rock-infused band that hails from Los Angeles. The group was originally co-founded in 2008 by Phil Galanty, (vocalist, producer, songwriter) and Scott Shryack (lead guitarist, songwriter), when the two were seeking random roommates to live with in Long Beach, California. In the end, Phil and Scott not only found someone to share an apartment with--they also found a fulfilling musical partnership. They immediately began writing and performing together, and also decided that their ultimate vision would include putting a full band together. A few years later, the two were introduced to the very talented Danny DeLeon (drummer), who had already established himself in the ranks of the Southern California music community. Phil and Scott were sure that Danny would be a perfect addition to the band, and in beginning to work with one another as a team of three, they knew they had indeed made the perfect choice. Next, in January of 2011, the stars continued to align for Autumn Twilights. Phil ran into Nathan Smith, a friend he knew back in Washington D.C. as a kid. Now a seasoned bass player performing across LA, Nathan, would prove to be another perfect match for the band. Along with Nathan, the band also picked up Mike Connell, an incredibly talented lyricist/producer, who would prove to be a powerful addition to not only the sound of Autumn Twilights, but to the on-stage presence they were reaching for. Last but not least, the band was looking to fill one final spot--one for a female vocalist. They ended up reaching out to Arielle Worona, an extremely talented up-and-coming singer/songwriter in the Los Angeles music scene with a heavy background in musical theater. The new group clicked instantly as songwriting and musical soul mates. As a whole, they were greatly influenced by the likes of The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, The Gorillaz, as well as Motown, Hip-Hop, Punk and Electronic music.

Website: www.autumntwilights.com CDBaby link: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/AutumnTwilights iTunes link: http://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/autumn-twilights/id375440476 Facebook Link: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Autumn-Twilights/128101773916396

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“Jedi keyz” The Pittsburgh Prodigy In every city there‘s a person that‘s born for greatness, a person with a dream, a passion and a pure talent waiting to show the world. Well in 1990 in the city of Columbia South Carolina there was the birth of Jedi Keyz On The beat... He moved to Pittsburgh P.A at 13 years old. Growing up he was always surrounded by music, mo town oldies, and southern rock n roll and in later year‘s hip hop. Jedi keyz always had an ear for good music and loved pretty much every style of music but grew more of a passion for rap. At 8 years old Jedi Keyz was poisoned and passed away then 3 minutes later was rebirthed into this world so there‘s no doubt he was born for greatness in this world. In 2005 he turned 15 and wanted to pursue a career for music so he got a pen and pad and starting writing music and it didn‘t stop there At Christmas he got a microphone and a recording program and put his music on a track. Later down the road he got signed to a Pittsburgh record label with his group... by this time he was 19. at 20 Jedi Keyz made up his mind and put the pen and pad down and picked up a keyboard and a producing program and started producing rap beats, in April of 2011 Jedi Keyz signed a verbal deal with Highpothesis Wrekordz in Ohio as their first in house producer witch didn‘t go far but got him good exposure in Ohio. Now he‘s on to making big moves like starting his own record label "Bottles -N-Bongs Entertainment" which started with a friend that‘s a DJ and is also into music. His goal is to make the label Bottles-N-Bongs Entertainment a worldwide corporation. In early 2011 Jedi Keyz got offered a deal by Interscope and turned it down with good intentions. In July of 2011 he released a Free Beat-Tape called "The Pittsburgh Prodigy" which in only two days got over 300 plays and 80 likes from fans and customers on facebook. Jedi Keyz has produced rap songs for rappers in Chicago, South Carolina, Florida and other states around the U.S as well in projects with a rapper from the country Nigeria and Canada. Today Jedi Keyz is starting a new genre of Rap called Bass Soul which is a mixture of Rap, Pop and Reggae. Now Jedi Keyz is connected with Interscope Records and building his own label Bottles-N-Bongs Entertainment and releasing quality instrumentals/beats for up n coming rappers, pop singers and R&B singers around the country.

www.facebook.com/Jedi.Keyz.On.The.Beat www.reverbnation.com/JediKeyzOnTheBeat www.twitter.com/JediKeyz www.youtube.com/JediKeyzTV

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"Double O & the Bay Area Bad Girlz" Musically inclined and known to be lyrically impressive Double O & the Bay Area Bad Girlz, "bad not meaning bad but bad meaning good!‖ represent a female Movement. Double O & the Bay Area Bad Girlz are building community unity, with strong, Popular, Hip-Hop/ R&B music Compilations! Franchising into a recognizable "Brand" Double O & the BABG are like a female WuTang solo artists: Double O, Suga-T, Ms. Lacy, Amina Harris, DeJa Voo, Dynamic Duo, Ms. Moka, Danja, Diamond Girlz, Ms. Jade, Maddaline Boulding, & LaToya Gains come together tour, sell, fundraise, and are independent artists. Double O & the Bay Area Bad Girlz social, political, analytical, female perspective on life; especially, in the Urban, Hip-Hop Culture make Double O & the BABG interestingly, intriguing! Whether you are 12 to 72, male or female, poor or rich, enjoy the talents of the Double O & the Bay Area Bad Girlz! Double O & some of the BABG were featured on the Silence the Violence, Cd Compilation. Double O & BABG toured with the Musiq 4 Hunger Tour, founded by Li Mari Garcia in 2008. In 2009 Double O performed at the Urban Network with BABG! Double O & the Bay Area Bad Girlz were nominated in 3 Rap field and 1 Gospel field on the 2011 Preliminary Grammy Ballot! Currently the Bay Area Bad Girlz are performing locally and preparing a California College Tour with an active twist by registering people to vote, and spreading awareness of the Sports Crisis in High Schools Nationwide. The Bay area Bad Girlz are accepting Sponsors, Ventures, and College Clubs; interested in Sponsoring an event, and Bookings with Double O & the BABG Contact: Omolara Amarant:(707)-5674847/cell (707)-333-7554/mobile-office P.O. Box 871 Vallejo, Ca. 94590. http://www.reverbnation.com/c./rpk/311608 www.bayareabadgirlz.com

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“Who is Ed E Ruger” From the triad‘s capital, Greensboro, North Carolina comes the best recipe for a spectacular, fresh yet familiar emcee, who has easily been coined as ―The New Breed Of Hip Hop.‖Ed E. Ruger has been showcasing his energetic and vivid rhyming talents with an unmatched grind and work ethic. Starting out as a battle rapper his in your face freestyles blended in with his crowd hyping ability took over the North Carolina underground by storm. With his never ending hunger for his music the storm has yet to be silenced, in fact it just gets bigger. --AWARDS-SOHH.com True Grit Winner MTVonTheRise.com Artist 2x NC Best Artist Nominee 2x triad's Best Hip Hop Act SUMA Artist Of The Year --FEATURES-AllHipHop.com Sirius Satellite's Hip Hop Nation SOHH.com --DISOGRAPHY--The Southern Bull 2006 -Shots From Tha Ruger 2007 -Reloaded 2008 -Brown Bag Special Vol 1 w/ Ty Bru & DJ Phillie Phresh 2009 -Lights Out 2010 -Ziplocked & Loaded 2011

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“P.A. Teezy” In this time of crisis and turmoil, happiness is something that people all over the world want to feel and music plays a big part. With an upbeat tempo, and beats that make you want to move and get up and dance, P.A. Teezy has the sound that makes you forget about your problems. After discovering his talent at the age of 12, P.A. Teezy has steadily continued to develop and mature his sound into what is is today. Already an underground Miami legend with the club smash "Do My Dance," P.A. Teezy is now poised to take over the world. P.A. Teezy's new single "Bennie Biggle Wiggle," off of the highly anticipated "P.A. Teezy vs. DJ Pat" mixtape, has quickly spread all over Florida as well as portions of Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, New York, Canada, and even the UK. P.A. Teezy is making a name for himself and quickly proving that he belongs in this game called music, for now and many years to come. Official Video - http://bit.ly/hoAiwL For Bookings, Drops, or Interviews Contact: J.R. (954) 834-6031 or Info@diamondsoundrecords.com www.diamondsoundrecords.com www.twitter.com/pateezy305 www.facebook.com/pateezy305 www.youtube.com/diamondsoundrec

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“SLATE STONE” Immersed in the culture of Hip Hop since early childhood, Slate Stone, born Tomas Juan Carlos Sawyer, began expressing his love for music. Through his experience with producing, writing and performing, Slate has evolved himself into a very talented and well-balanced artist. Known for his creative wordplay and razor-sharp lyricism, Slate Stone has proven himself proficient in the world of Hip-Hop. Slate‘s 10-year dedication to his craft has been his most valuable asset. A Texas native, Slate has been playing the piano and singing for his church since the young age of 9. He is also a skilled drummer and accomplished guitar player. Known as one of the best rap/hip-hop acts in the West Texas region, Slate Stone‘s skills, from start to finish, are recognized through his high level of intensity and lyrical genius. In a recent interview with Study Breaks Magazine, Slate Stone was asked about his ardor for the industry, he had this to say: ―I wanna show the music industry what it really takes to get recognized and respected‖, Slate said. ―You can‘t just put a MySpace page up and expect that to make your career. You gotta sell yourself and if you‘re any good, your craft will follow. You have to create a compelling impact -- it‘s all about the hustle and dedication to music.‖ Slate Stone is currently building his Sky Skrape brand which will offer services in film/video, clothing, models, calendars, and all aspects of musical entertainment. Slate has toured with Mike Jones, Bo Hagen, Residue (Rock Band), Ying-Yang Twins and Paul Wall, to name a few. With his influences ranging from Notorious BIG and Common, to Black Thought and Jay-Z, it‘s no wonder this producer turned rapper is primed for the big-time.

Twitter: http://twitter.com/SlateStoneMusic Slate Stone Music: http://SlateStoneMusic.com Phenomenal Radio: http://PhenomRadio.com http://www.facebook.com/RapstarMagazine

“SwAGG!T” SwAGG!T, an upcoming duo from Frederick, MD that consist of two brothers who work together to achieve all of their hopes and dreams. Although, Rap and Hip-Hop the duo's primary genre, they plan to explore the wide range of genres that are out there. Both Brandon and Khary Ricks were born in Berlin, Germany but were raised in Chattanooga, TN. "You guys have a style that you can call your own and this vibe that is like no other." -Marvin The duo is now working hard on their first album "Freshman Year" that will be released sometime this summer. The brothers are also planning their second mixtape "Journey to the Clouds" which would be an EP. The brothers didn't start making music together until 2007, where they started their first rap group "YHB" with some neighborhood friends. "SwAGG!T" was formed soon after. Their first mixtape "The Wake Up" was a personal success, plus the mixtape helped build a small fan base within Frederick, MD and other cities across the country. On November 15, 2010, SwAGG!T closed a deal with Attack Media Group, an indie label based in Toronto, Canada. As SwAGG!T continue, all of their hard work and determination will soon pay off at the end. They plan to influence other young artist like themselves to always dream big and to never give up. "You guys make music that makes people feel good, when I hear you music it really take me away." -Tyrie

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“Yung Prada” Yung Prada, born Dwayne Bennett, was born April 19, 1980, in Winston-Salem N.C. Yung gravitated towards music at an early age. By the age of seven he would sneak and listen to his uncle‘s collection of hip -hop tapes. Albums from artists like Easy-E and N.W.A to Slick Rick the Ruler and Run DMC . This was a pivotal point for the young artist as he began to imitate the music he heard. By the age thirteen, Yung had become a part of the neighborhood group, the GhostRidahz. As one of the youngest members of the group, Prada, whose original name was Tommy Gunz, began to learn the basics of writing and recording and found out that he had the natural ability to put words together in a rhyming format that made sense. As the artist developed he began to see music as a way out of the hood. He started performing in talent shows and quickly realized that he felt at home on the stage. Since then Yung Prada went on to be featured on the Carolina Movement mixtape series and is expected to have tracks on the upcoming Carolina Takeover mixtape. He recently signed with Texas independent label, First Amendment Entertainment and is set for a tour throughout central Texas in August. When asked what were his plans for the future Yung replied, ―Work hard, and do something that matters.‖ Watch out for what the future may bring this aspiring artist. http://www.reverbnation.com/yungprada

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INTOXICATING MUSIC www.facebook.com/SERUM.Music @serum_music 2011 Stellar Award winning label, RIAA certified a few times ...and we're just getting startedâ&#x20AC;Ś