Interview: Las Vegas Based Rapper R-Stonze Talks About His New Single/Video "Baghdad"
Las Vegas based lyrical drill rapper @smgstoney connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss his newly released single/video “Baghdad”, and much more.
“I drew inspiration from what I experienced from being involved in the streets of Cleveland, and different environments that I’ve been around. Nonetheless, “Baghdad” is more like a POV from my perspective. ”
Salute to you on the release of your new single/music video, "Baghdad". What initially provided you the inspiration to write the track and how did you end up selecting the instrumental?
I drew inspiration from what I experienced from being involved in the streets of Cleveland, and different environments that I've been around. Nonetheless, "Baghdad" is more like a POV from my perspective.
The beat was perfect for the vibe that I was looking for to match what I wanted to drop on the track. Now that I'm living in Vegas, it's the same shit, different toilet. The overall sound and feel of the track came out dope to me.
The video is the perfect accompaniment of the song; how did you and the director, J1, come up with its treatment?
My boy J1 already knew what I was on and I told him I wanted to tweak out a little bit in the crib with this one. I wanted to keep it simple and not overcomplicate the song visually.
Congratulations also on the release of your new EP "Lucky"; how long did it take to complete that project and what are you most proud of with it?
Thanks for the love; "Lucky" is one of my favorite projects because I took it back to my grassroots on every track. I came up listening to guys like Jada & Styles, 50, Dipset, so witty and grimy bars aren't foreign to me. I felt like I had to address certain things on this project, and speak on certain things that have transpired over the years.
Tell us about your experience as a MMA fighter; when did you get started with training and what is more difficult to be proficient in, Muay Thai or Jiujitsu?
I've been training MMA for 8 years now. It's a part of my lifestyle and I enjoy every aspect of it, from training all the way to competition.
The level of proficiency in Muay Thai and Jiujitsu is extremely different. There are so many different techniques that are used in standup striking but Muay Thai has to be the most devastating considering the use of elbows and knees.
Jiujitsu on the other hand in a totally different world because this is basically grappling on crack. There are at least 5 different ways to pull off the same submission, tons of offensive and defensive techniques, and more. This is why I built my fight game around both so I can be devastating on the feet and the ground.
With "Baghdad" and the "Lucky" EP both released, what's next for you musically?
Musically, I'm wrapping up more visuals for “Lucky”, getting ready to drop some new heat with my boy Kid Dre out of Chicago, and take this from there.
Stream and Share “Lucky” on: Spotify | Apple Music
Interview: Grand Rapids, MI Rap Artist J. RoB Talks About His New Video "Money Bags"
Big shout out to Grand Rapids, MI based rapper @jrobscampaign who connected with DCWS for an exclusive Q&A to discuss his very DOPE new music video for “Money Bags”, directed by Orange Cap.
“My creative process is all about the feel. I let the beat talk to me and whatever it tells me, I do. ”
Tell us about your creative process when developing new music. Also, what do you look for in the production that you decide to write to?
My creative process is all about the feel. I let the beat talk to me and whatever it tells me, I do. I also love just to build with a producer on the spot, that always makes for some dope music. I just take life and write about it, that's it in a nutshell. It's all real.
Congratulations on the release of your new single/video "Money Bags". Tell us what inspired you to write the song and how you connected with its producer V12 The Hitman.
Took a trip out to LA before the pandemic and connected with V12 who is also from the city that I'm from, Grand Rapids. We kicked it along with my guy Neighborhood Kid, and while on the trip we went to G. Perico's release party and the time was just lit.
Got back to Grand Rapids, and heard he was in town, and would be at Neighborhood's shop, and he played me some beats he had tucked, and the instant I heard the beat for “Money Bags”, I got that stank face you get when you hear a banging beat. From there “Money Bags” was made.
Shout out to V12 The Hitman, who has worked with some of your favorite artists in the game.
Regarding the visual, how did you and the director Orange Cap come up with its concept?
Shout out to Orange Cap productions, if you're an artist looking for great quality work hit him up. I've been working with Orange Cap for a few years now, and I told him that this one made me feel like the Joker in Gotham City. Like it sounds like an anthem for Gotham. From there he was like "Yo we gotta get one of the masks they used in Dark Knight." I trust him behind that lens so from there we drew from the famous robbery scene from that movie with our own spin to it.
We were blown away by that El Camino in the video; how would you say that car culture and the rap scene in Grand Rapids (or midwest overall) intersect?
Man that El Camino is crazy, its even crazier on the inside lol, shout out to my good friend and car club owner Steve Russo of Midwest Executives. I think it goes hand in hand with each other and really helps out both sides as far as supporters and networking. I mean eventually you need a dope whip in your video at some point lol, and what car owner doesn't want their whip in a music video lol. The Car culture brings the crowd and artists do the same.
With "Money Bags" now released, what's next for you musically? Can we expect it to appear on an upcoming EP or album this year?
I will be dropping music this whole year, every quarter. I have a Live EP with the band Bedrock the Foundation set to release shortly. I also have a collab EP with another artist by the name of A1 which will be produced by Troy Ceasar, and an EP with V12 The Hitman of course. This year we are busy again.
Review: "Black Rome" by Dough the Freshkid
I’m not sure if there is a single bad song on @doughfreshkid new album “Black Rome”. It has delightfully woke messaging without sounding too forced or too preachy
Dough the Freshkid (DTFK) is a hip-hop artist out of South Central, California who works under his own independent label, Every Penny Counts (EPC). On Thanksgiving Day of 2018, DTFK released his 15-track album titled “Black Rome”.
As a hip-hop lover, the very first thing that stood out to me about this album was the production. DTFK’s use of sampling and boom bap beats creates an old school sound that my ears personally love. The use of real jazz instrumentation helps add to the overall musicality of the project. Also, DTFK utilizes record scratches at times which again results in that sweet old school sound.
The album starts out with the song “Sunday Service” which uses a Gospel choir sample. It almost reminds me on Kanye West’s “Ultralight Beam”. This lively track helps to set the initial tone for the album; however, there are several tone changes throughout.
The project has many features; however, I feel that they are well placed and that they all hold quality. The songs “We Rich” and “Cookin” both have multiple features and it’s very clear that DTFK only chose extremely talented artists to spit verses on his tracks. (Shout out to Top Dolla, Wink Loc, and 1 Shot Dealz on “Cookin”)
Speaking honestly, I’m not sure if there is a single bad song on the album. “Black Rome” has delightfully woke messaging without sounding too forced or too preachy. DTFK raps about politics throughout the album but uses facts to get his messages across. There are segments where he speaks over the beat in order to get specific points across without having to actually rap them; similar to Jay-Z on his recent album 4:44. (a tactic used in hip-hop for decades). His subject matter ranges from church and religion, to drug dealing, racism, the state of hip-hop and even his opinion of Instagram models (lol check out “Unverified Models”)
Although DTFK is independent, after listening to this album, I could easily see him fitting in perfectly with TDE. He has a similar sound to Isaiah Rashad and at times raps similar to 50 Cent, and he has the lyricism to compete with the top tier emcees. At the same time, his choice of production and song topics make me feel like he could also fit in easily with the rappers of the 90s.
This album is an example of hip-hop still being alive and well despite all the trap rap on today’s radio stations. It is also proof that there are many independent, underground artists who are much more talented than the mainstream rappers of today.
Stream “Black Rome” on Spotify and Apple Music
Mac Miller Shares Three New Songs - "Small Worlds", "Buttons" and "Programs"
@macmiller is back to share new music of his own for the first time since 2016's The Divine Feminine, including the songs "Small Worlds", "Buttons" and "Programs"
Mac Miller is back to share new music of his own for the first time since 2016's The Divine Feminine. New songs "Small Worlds," "Buttons" and "Programs" showcase different sides of Miller. All songs are available immediately on all streaming platforms.
Listen to "Small Worlds", "Buttons" and "Programs" below and stay tuned for more from Mac Miller soon.
Connect with Mac Miller: Twitter
MUSIC DISCOVERY: Toronto Hip-Hop & RnB/Soul Spotify Playlist
Check out our new curated @Spotify playlist featuring the dopest Toronto based Hip-Hop and RnB/Soul artists, not named Drake, that you need to hear right now!
Compiled in collaboration with our resident Toronto contributor and emerging artist Ekelle, is our "MUSIC DISCOVERY: Toronto Hip-Hop & RnB/Soul" curated Spotify playlist, featuring some very dope artists that you need to hear right now.
The artists featured in the playlist include: 209 Crizzy, Faiza, Haley Smalls, Psych, Desiire, Ekelle, 88 Gram, Prime Boys, Cmdwn, Layla Hendryx, Mezziah, Faduma, Pvrx, KILLY, Hard to Kill, dvsn, Witch Prophet, anders, River Tiber, Allie and PLAZA.
Junglepussy Announces Album "JP3" and Shares New Single "Trader Joe"
New York's @JUNGLEPUSSY has just announced her new album “JP3”, which will arrive on May 11th.
New York's Junglepussy has just announced her new album. JP3 is Junglepussy's third studio album, and will arrive on May 11th. The new album is highlighted by features from Wiki, Rico Love, Gangsta Boo, and Quiñ as well as production from longtime JP collaborator Shy Guy, Kashaka, and Sporting Life. To coincide with the announcement, JP is sharing a new single from the forthcoming album. "Trader Joe" follows previously released singles "Sate of the Union" and "Showers," and is an upbeat track about the importance of self-care. "Trader Joe is about loving myself," explains JP. "Having fun liking someone, and not allowing them to ruin my life."
After debuting online in 2014 with her single "Cream Team," JP built a cult following around quick-witted, tongue-in-cheek lyricism that populated her debut album Satisfaction Guaranteed. The blueprint for her persona was a no-holds-barred exercise in self-love and empowerment, something that drew the attention of the media. Her stand out track, "Bling Bling" was streamed over 1.5 million times, and "Picky Bitch Checklist" became a mission statement for fans all over. On follow-up Pregnant With Success, JP created lush landscapes and character-lead narratives that cemented her as a formidable force in NYC rap. While lecturing at Yale University, JP dedicated the album to "anyone who's ever planted a seed, anyone who's ever waited patiently for something to come into fruition."
Junglepussy's new album is a natural continuation and elevation of her catalogue, filled with trademark humour and the joy of self-empowerment. In addition to releasing an album this year, Junglepussy also stars in an Andrew Bujalski film, 'Support the Girls' alongside Regina Hall and Haley Lu Richardson. The film premiered last at South by Southwest Film Festival and will be available in theaters later this year via Magnolia.
Hear "Trader Joe", find full album details and previously released single below, and stay tuned for more from Junglepussy.
Interview: Mathew Garthwaite, A&R and Label Manager For Australian Recording Division WVS
Check out our exclusive interview with Mathew Garthwaite, an A&R and Label Manager for @WVSmusic_ a recording division of Onelove established as an outlet to release the new wave of Australian Hip Hop and RnB music...
Mathew Garthwaite is an A&R and Label Manager for WVS, a recording division of Onelove that was established in 2016 as an outlet to showcase and release the new wave of Australian Hip Hop and RnB music coming out of the country. The current roster of artists on WVS includes Travy P (Brisbane), Lil Spacely (Sydney), Kwasi x HFNR (Melbourne), Hvncoq (Melbourne), Sophiegrophy (Melbourne), Vic August (Darwin), and Figuero Jones (Perth). DCWS has featured quite a few of these artists already and looks forward to showcasing some more, and that's how Mathew and DCWS first corresponded. For this interview, we connected with Mathew to discuss what he and his staff look for in the artists that sign to WVS, what city has the best music scene in Australia, their goals for the remainder of 2018 and much more.
After reading our Q&A with Mathew, be sure to follow WVS on social media and listen to the latest DOPE music coming from WVS's roster on their Soundcloud page.
For those who don't know, what is WVS and how did it get its start?
WVS is an independent record label based in Melbourne, Australia that supports Australian artists mainly in the rap/hip hop space. WVS started in 2016 as we noticed a growing scene of Australian hip hop that wasn't being represented yet and we wanted to make a place for these artists to develop and present their music to a wider audience.
What do you look for in the artists that you bring aboard to WVS?
We look for an individual style that is more than just the music, artists these days need to connect to their fans on more levels so we love working with creatives that know how to tell their story. Record labels these days are pretty much marketing companies so when the artist has more to talk about it makes it a lot more interesting to us to help them tell that story. Also artists that understand that this isn't a easy road and we are all in this together, no time for egos. At the moment WVS is pretty rap heavy on the roster side, but I would love to work with more soul/rnb artists as that's something I really love as well and feel it's being under represented in Australia.
Who would you consider to be the Australian Drake? As in, the artist who will officially open the collective ears of the world to the incredible urban music that is coming out of Australia, like Drake did for Toronto?
TBH I don't think we are at that point yet with anyone, but if I was to name anyone right now making those moves it would have to be Manu Crook$. Manu is the homie, I've known him for a long time and it's so great to see him making his mark on his own terms across the world at the moment. I think there is still a while to go before the world really pays attention but we have time, and as long as artists stay patient in their process, we will get there.
What city in Australia would you say has the best music scene, regardless of genre?
Melbourne hands down, it's just the city for it and you would be crazy to argue against that. BTW I would love to see Australian artists rep their city a lot more; we are starting to see it in Sydney and Perth and it's exciting, I want to see more of that!
What are your goals for WVS the remainder of 2018?
2016 we started, 2017 we came out with a bang, 2018 we continue that momentum and focus in more on our roster and creating career artists. I really like the development process with artists, building their fan bases gradually and keeping strong relationships along the way. We are spending a lot of time overseas this year as well working with International teams and building relationships with labels/artists in different cities. We are going to extra lengths for our guys and in time I know it will work out for the best for everyone involved. Other than that its more music, more videos, more parties, just keeping that energy high and building our legacy.
How do artists get in touch with you who are interested in joining WVS?
We have a demo submissions section on our website (wvswvs.com) that we check every few days and always give feedback, otherwise come to a show and introduce yourself, show love, show support, we love that.
Connect with Mathew Garthwaite and WVS: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Kendrick Lamar Becomes First Hip-Hop Artist To Win Pulitzer Prize
Not only is Kendrick Lamar the first Hip-Hop artist to take home a Pulitzer Prize, but the first non-classical or jazz artist to win as well.
Kendrick has definitely been a destructive force in the rap world, taking the world by storm and being critically praised while doing so. Kendrick is a Grammy award winning artist who has also claimed gold at the MTV Video Music Awards, NAACP Image Awards, iHeartRadio Music Awards, Soul Train Music Awards, and many others. Now the award-winning artist can add the Pulitzer Prize to his long list of accomplishments!
Kendrick Lamar’s “DAMN.”, which was released in April 2017, took home the prestigious award, with the Pulitzer Prize website calling the album “a virtuosic song collection unified by its vernacular authenticity and rhythmic dynamism that offers affecting vignettes capturing the complexity of modern African-American life.” Not only is Kendrick Lamar the first Hip-Hop artist to take home a Pulitzer Prize, but the first non-classical or jazz artist to win as well.
This adds further proof to not only Lamar’s presence within the music industry, but the leverage that Hip-Hop holds as a genre in the world of music. In 2017, Hip-Hop and RnB officially surpassed Rock N Roll as the biggest music genre in the United States, according to a Nielsen Music report. While it’s apparent that Hip-Hop’s influence is continuing to grow, Kendrick’s award for his latest album may be further proof at the level of influence Hip-Hop has globally, with Kendrick being an excellent representation of the art form.
It looks as if 2018 is truly Kendrick Lamar’s year! He has performed during the College Football Playoff National Championship. He took home Best Rap Album, Best Rap Song, Best Rap Performance, and Best Rap/Sung Collaboration and 3 nominations at the 60th Annual Grammy Awards. With this latest accolade, King Kendrick is close to becoming the King of Rap music before 2018 is over!
Interview: Sydney Emcee Nardean Discusses Her New Video "Nothing Matters" and the Urban Music Scene in Australia
Check out our exclusive interview with @Nardeannn an Egyptian-Australian emcee, out of Sydney.
We are honored to bring you an exclusive interview with Nardean, an Egyptian-Australian emcee, poet, spoken word artist, singer and songwriter, out of Sydney. She recently dropped her video "Nothing Matters" and it has been getting a lot of love from the DCWS team and the world as it has garnered over 5,000 plays on YouTube already! During our interview with Nardean, we discuss the urban music scene in Australia, as well as its parallels with Toronto PD (pre-Drake), her Egyptian culture and how it is reflected in her music, and much more.
After reading our Q&A with Nardean, be sure to follow her on social media, stream "Nothing Matters" on Spotify, and check out some other very DOPE Australian urban artists we are huge fans of -- Manu Crook$ and Sampa The Great. Last but never least, major shout out to Maggie Tra from Stimulate Your Soul for connecting us with this extremely talented artist.
If you had to describe your music to a stranger in three words who has never heard you before, which ones would you select?
1. You
2. Tell
3. Me!
Honestly, I try to steer clear of describing my music. Instead I let people form their own idea of it. It may sound a certain way to me but sound completely different to someone else. I like to keep the slate blank, it gives me more freedom to create whatever is honest in the moment.
As someone based in the United States, I look at the Australian urban music scene as bubbling below the surface similar to how Toronto was before Drake emerged. Meaning that it is only a matter of time before we in US really starts focusing on the incredible urban music coming from down under like we do Canada now. How would you describe the urban music scene in Australia right now, specifically in Sydney?
I 100% agree with the statement comparing Aus right now to pre-Drake Canada. Currently, the energy in this country is OFF THE CHARTS. So much of our music is now ON THE CHARTS! (see what I did there?). The biggest change? We're all SUPPORTING each other! There used to be a great deal of "Tall Poppy Syndrome"... if a poppy grows too tall, cut it down. That means the ones who were about to break away never got the support from their own people. But since we've become aware of this, so many of us are working to SUPPORT each other. The blogs are going nuts, there's so many more gigs on, there are now Hip Hop courses at colleges, the music itself has gotten 100x better and there's more Aussie music in massive Spotify and Apple Music playlists. I know of so many artists here who are sitting on incredible records. Its sooooo fucking exciting, the world isn't ready for whats about to happen in Australia.
Do you feel that Australian urban music artists like yourself get the attention you deserve outside of Australia?
This is a weighted question. God/Universe/Source/Alien Life Form (whatever you wanna call it) is fair. Everything external reflects your internal world. The statement "we aren't getting what we deserve" takes the responsibility out of our hands and puts it in someone else's. So, at the risk of pissing off a lot of people, I am gonna say that we got as much attention as we thought we were worth. The external attention reflected how we felt internally. It seems that for a long time, "Australian Hip Hop" was still trying to find its voice, and didn't believe it was worth other people's time. Now, we've found that voice, its loud, its diverse and its DOPE, and all of a sudden we're getting loads of international attention.
I really enjoyed your new video "Nothing Matters". It was colorful, lively and optimistic, which is sorely needed now days. Tell us about your creative process for the song itself and how you came up with the treatment for the visuals, which included some very dope animations.
Stackhat gave me the beat and I came up with the beginning of the song pretty quickly. I had no idea what to do for the rest of the song... for about 4 months, it sat there. Then one day, the line “alright throwback, four and a half billion years” landed in my head. I sat down at my laptop straight away and word vomited the entire verse as a poem onto my laptop. It came out in one go from top to bottom, no edits required. The next day, I sat with the beat for a couple of hours and made the words fit the music. It’s probably the least work I’ve ever had to put into a song, and yet it’s my favourite song I've ever written.
I actually don’t remember how I came up with the idea for the video. It was another one of those “landed in my head” moments. I just remember thinking "If life gives you lemons, make art."
It was an extremely fun day. I was so in love with everyone in that room. I wanted it to be fun and alive, otherwise the whole "nothing matters" thing could be a bit depressing...
My homegirl/mentor ALPHAMAMA suggested adding animations, what a legend! Since releasing it I've had a tonne of press, its been amazing. I'm so glad everyone loved it as much as I did.
Would you say that your Egyptian culture is reflected in your music at all? If so, how?
I'm gonna answer this with a big fat YES and tell you to wait till my EP comes out on May 9th to find out the 'how.'
I've just moved back in with my parents, so I've been listening to a lot of their old Egyptian records from the 40s-70s. Its truly incredible music and I can't wait to incorporate it more. Some ideas include: belly dancing bangers, lo-fi boom bap beats with samples from the old records and Arabic poetry.
Judging from the video, I can imagine that you put on quite a live performance. Describe a typical Nardean show for us. And do you have a favorite song to perform?
Yes.. I am definitely known for being quite the performer. Coming from a poetry background, I am used to not having any music to "hide behind," and usually laying it all bare. I try and bring the same (metaphorical) nakedness into my live show. At the end of the day, its not about me. These songs chose me to write them, and so I need to get out of my own way and do my best to serve the song. Sometimes there's poetry, sometimes there's freestyling, sometimes there's booty shaking... it is what I feel in the moment, and what the room asks of me. My intention is always to connect. Everything else doesn't matter. As long as I'm feeling it and the crowd is feeling it, then it'll be a good show.
My favourite song to perform is called Adamantium - off my forthcoming record. There is a FAT beat drop half way through and I love seeing everyone's "Holy-shit-can-you-feel-that-bass" face when it comes in.
Would you consider yourself an MC or singer-songwriter first?
I would say... neither. I consider myself a writer. The words and the meaning behind them are the most important. Then, I find the rhythm/melody that adds the right feeling to the words.
All my writing operates with this rule: If I can't speak it acapella as a poem, then the lyrics don't pass as a song.
Stream/Download "Nothing Matters" on Spotify
Connect with Nardean: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Soundcloud
Review: "Invasion of Privacy" by Cardi B
Check out our review of Cardi B's newly released debut album "Invasion of Privacy"
Cardi B’s "Invasion of Privacy" was a partial success, but the tracks were all over the place and the album as a whole didn’t seem that cohesive. There were some top notch tracks with impressive production, lyrical finesse and flow that effectively represented the New York’s rappers roots, shameless gang pride and no-fucks mentality. Tracks like “Get up 10”, “Money Bag”, and “Bickenhead” all killed it and made sure we knew that Cardi hasn’t forgotten where she came from, in the face of fame. The catchiest track that earned the most consecutive replays on this album would be “Drip”, since “Bodak” and “Bartier Cardi” are both stars but have been over-played on the radio and become tired quickly over the past few months.
And while “Drip” was a viral hit, her dazzling rendition of “I Like” that paid homage to her Latin roots by re-working the fire hook by Pete Rodriguez and featuring Latin reggaeton artists Bad Bunny and J. Balvin on the track. This song is easily going to be a bass-busting mainstay of the summer, and we look forward to it.
Apart from that, collaborations were mostly like a miss, and sounded more like Cardi was being featured on her own guest artist’s tracks, rather than the other way around. “Best Life” with Chance the Rapper was decidedly Chance in style, and he overshadowed her entirely in the track. The two artist’s have totally different brands and in this case, they didn’t mesh harmoniously. “I Do” with SZA was the only other collaborative track that worked well, and that’s mostly thanks to SZA’s adaptability and the track’s production.
The R&B/sing-song style that Cardi went for was a bit of a disastrous attempt, as seen in “Be Careful” and “Ring” featuring Kehlani. Here, she tried to soften her crass, tough girl identity and reveal a more emotionally vulnerable side, but we wish she had just stuck to expressing those feelings through her raps, or even in music videos, because with more mellow production and emotional content, Cardi’s flow comes off as way too harsh. We appreciate her venture into all things experimental, but think Cardi might be better off sticking with what she does best: snatching weaves and and holding onto her raw hood bravado.
Interview: Brooklyn Based Rapper King Gamble
Our next exclusive interview is with Brooklyn based rap artist @KingGamble1 whose video "Turn You On", we recently featured...
Our next exclusive interview is with Brooklyn based rap artist King Gamble whose video "Turn You On", we recently featured in the New Videos section. During our Q&A we asked King Gamble about his creative process for "Turn You On", when we can expect his upcoming project "The King's Experience", how he stays motivated as a lyrically inclined NYC based artist during the trap/mumble era and much more.
After reading our interview with King Gamble, be sure to follow him on his social media streams to stay up to date on all things "King Gamble", and cop a shirt or two from his merch store.
Tell us about your name "King Gamble". What does the moniker mean to you?
Well my middle name is Akeem. The meaning of it is “wise” or “insightful”. Growing up my grandmother used to call me King instead of Keem so that part kind of stayed with me throughout my life. Plus I honestly believe we are all kings and our women are queens so we should carry ourselves as such.
Before I made my first song I was very afraid and nervous about what people would think about my material. I took a risk on it... a Gamble really and it paid off in the long run.
Describe your creative process for "Turn You On", the song itself and for the video. Who produced the song and how did you and the director come up with the treatment?
The creative process for “Turn you on” was insanely easy once I heard the beat. The track is Produced by Tony Sway and as soon as I heard the drum pattern I instantly thought “Can't You See” Total/Big 90s RnB.
As far as the video I wanted to step away from the one dimensional videos that we are sadly accustomed to seeing. Initially a casting for the shoot was held for one model and we ended up with an entire dope cast. Everyone loved the song first listen so once we locked in the models the rest was history.
What can you tell us about the "The Kings Experience", which you mentioned that "Turn You On" is a part of? Is this project out now? If not, when can we expect it?
The King’s Experience will be out this summer of 2018. I don’t really want to give an exact date because I still am in the final stages of tweaking some songs. Summer 2018 you can look forward to the project for sure.
What keeps you motivated as an emerging NYC based artist, especially these days where it's becoming more evident that the typical rap fan doesn't care about lyrics, which is something that Brooklyn's legendary rappers have been known for?
It’s very interesting this day and age being a lyricist. We are slowly getting back into lyrics thanks to a couple artists but It’s clearly more of a trap/mumble era right now. My motivation comes from exactly that. I love converting over listeners that usually won’t listen to lyrics or storytelling and get them to appreciate the art form. I love all type of music but I’m more so about the lyrics, punchlines and overall picture painting when creating my music.
Tell us about your goals musically for the remainder of 2018?
Lord willing something will come to the table but in the meantime my goals for 2018 is just to present my passion to the world as an unsigned artist.
I spent a lot of time playing the back skirts getting my life together personally. Now that things are connected and clicking in ready to put it projects, visuals and try to play a part in restoring that “feeling” of good music.
Connect with King Gamble: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Merch Store
Manu Crook$ Signs to Primary Talent Agency and Drops "Different League" Video
After releasing his debut EP "mood forever" last year to international acclaim, @manuthecrook first release of 2018 "Different League" is set to reach even higher...
After releasing his debut EP ‘mood forever’ last year to international acclaim, Sydney Based African-Australian artist Manu Crooks quickly cemented himself as the new face of Hip Hop in Australia.
As his international reputation builds, Manu has also made fans in famous circles – getting tags and mentions from influential artists in the US and UK such as Stormzy and A$AP Ferg.
His Australian tour with Stormzy and the following European tour impressed Primary Talent agent Craig D’Souza (Stormzy, Dave, J Hus, Krept & Konan, MIST, MoStack), and we are excited to announce Craig will be representing Manu for his live appearances in the UK and Europe.
With half of his YouTube videos already at over a million views, his first release of 2018 "Different League" is set to reach even higher with Manu's most ambitious visuals yet.
"Different League" was filmed in Paris in January with French directors Aden Gauthier, Berko & Titan, and Hitsu Film, and with additional footage shot in Sydney by AUS directors Julian Machuca & Tom Fletcher. Machuca also filmed the videos for Manu’s first four film clips - "Everyday", "Blowin' Up", "Assumptions", and "Ridin’".
The result is a stark, otherworldly atmosphere mixing the real and surreal together in black and white.
The clip was filmed in January when Manu embarked on his first ever European tour – playing to packed out clubs in Berlin, Paris, London, Athens and Thessaloniki. The dates across Europe were insanely successful and led to an invite to return to the UK to perform at The Great Escape Festival in Brighton in May.
With added moments like the Alison Wonderland Scarehouse Tour, The PLOT Festival, Falls Festival, a special performance in Moscow, spins from Zane Lowe on Beats 1, features in The Coveteur, Highsnobiety, The Fader and Clash Magazine, as well as high rotation singles on Triple j and FBi Radio under his belt, Manu Crooks proves he is the Australian hip hop artist to watch time and time again.
Manu will also be embarking on his first ever tour of Canada – playing Toronto, Calgary, Whistler, Edmonton and Vancouver in April and May before heading to the UK.
Interview: Whisper the Coke God Talks About His New Single "You Don't Want It", How His Name Originated and More
Our latest exclusive interview is with Joliet, Ill rap artist @Fuckk_Hector
Our latest exclusive interview is with Joliet, Ill based rapper Whisper the Coke God who recently dropped a fire track called "You Don't Want It" featuring iLL Will. During the Q&A with Whisper we discuss how his name came about, how he connected with iLL Will on the track, why Twista is such a big influence on his music and much more. After reading our interview with Whisper the Coke God, be sure to follow him on his social media streams to stay up to date on what's next to come from this talented artist.
Breakdown your name "Whisper the Coke God". How did it originate and what does it mean?
This is a funny one actually, a lot of people have asked me what it means. I’m glad I finally get to address it publicly lol. Whisper The Coke God, is not “The Cocaine God” like everyone thinks lmao. Whisper is the nickname of the guy that gave my mom her first tattoo, which is bootleg btw lol. I thought it sounded cool, so shoutout him wherever he’s at. And “Coke God” is because my mom works at Coca Cola, so she be bringing hella Coke and Sprite home. So basically my name is inspired by my mother.
You mentioned that you originally started rapping with the lyrical component being very important but you realized that it didn't get much love, so you kind of "dumbed" your rhymes down. Are you disappointed at all that you had to do that?
I’m not really disappointed that I had to “dumb down” my lyrics, I kinda just accepted that it’s not what people want to listen to nowadays. I understand the problem and I adapted to it, and I’m glad I did because now I feel I’m getting the attention I deserve.
Congrats on your track with iLL Will "You Don't Want It". How did you guys connect on this track and who handled the production?
First I’d like to say thank you, coming from both Will and I. Originally I met him thru SoundCloud messages, he stumbled across my music, messaged me, and we set up a plan to collab. “You Don’t Want It” is a single from his EP “Wicked One”, that we released on my account to hype it up. We kinda knew from the beginning it would do decent numbers so it all worked out smoothly.
Tell us about the two groups you are in - XXIX & Trill Club Music Group. How are the different?
XXIX is a group I made with my long time friend IHATEPVRPL, who used to go by Akwafeena. Him and I run merchandise and plan on expanding in the future into our own brand. I’m also a part of Trill Club, which I thank Will for convincing them to give me a chance, we’re a family. There’s so many talented people in there that deserve more attention then they have. And I’d say the two are different probably because Trill Club might have a bit more clout to its name at the moment, but personally I’m more attached to XXIX due to what me and Garza (IHATEPVRPL) has been thru to get it where it is right now.
Why is Chicago legend Twista such an influence on your music?
Personally to me, I think rapping at a fast pace WHILE being able to understand what’s being said is way harder then it sounds. Which makes it more satisfying when you’re able to pull it off correctly, and the way Twista did it was so iconic and influential.
What's next after "You Don't Want It"? Will we hear a Whisper the Coke God mixtape or EP this spring or summer?
After “You Don’t Want It” from me and Will’s standpoint, we constantly try and drop new music. Our styles and voices just go so well together, we recently dropped “Dat Wet Wet” not too long ago. As for what’s next as an individual standpoint, I’m currently riding the wave of all the attention I’m getting from you guys and my upcoming show May 27th, and also slowly growing my brand and fan base. So I don’t plan on slowing down, Imma just keep being humble and grinding.
Stream/Download "Sky Falling", the New EP By Kachinga
Canadian emcee Kachinga's recently released "Sky Falling" is an album that has been in the works for three years.
Canadian emcee Kachinga's recent release "Sky Falling" is an album that has been in the works for three years, originally as part of the collective known as Skool City. After some restructuring, Kachinga emerged as lead artist, alongside production team Lava Cru and backed by Three Entertainment Group.
"The album was inspired by a journey of loss and learning, the struggle to find a balance between the good and the bad in life, and serves as a reminder to find the good within the bad and to acknowledge and accept the bad with the good." - Kachinga
Yeek Announces New EP "BLACKHEART" and Shares Lead Single "Slept On", Featuring Robin Dalyan
@imyeek has announced his new EP "BLACKHEART" which will arrive May 4th, and dropped a new single "Slept On"...
Yeek has announced his new EP "BLACKHEART" which will arrive May 4th, and is the follow up to Yeek's 2017 album "Sebastian". To coincide with the announcement, Yeek is sharing the lead single from the project, "Slept On." The new track, which is a duet with LA singer Robin, features Yeek's uniquely melancholy blend of pop and hip hop and is undeniably catchy in spite of its forlorn themes.
Yeek is a Los Angeles based singer, songwriter, and producer originally from South Florida. His music combines elements of hip hop, taken from his environment in LA, with pop sensibilities to create a distinctive sound.
Connect with Yeek: Twitter
Making the Cut: Who to Keep Showing Love to, Who to Start Looking Out For, and Who To Write Off After SXSW 2018
After another momentous @SXSW find out which artists you should keep showing love to, start looking out for, and who to write off...
Another year of SXSW has come and gone, and another round of artists have put their talents on display for the world to see.
The beauty of SXSW is that it is an opportunity for artists who have been grinding all year to prove themselves in front of a large audience, and it’s time to put up or shut up for artists who generated a buzz for themselves on the internet. At the end of the day, being a musician is about being a performer, and SXSW is where you’re supposed to shine.
These are the artists who lived up to their hype, proved they deserve more hype, and showed that they deserve to be put back on the 2017 shelf.
Look Out For:
This rap duo, consisting of Zeale Rapz and Phranchyze, are local gems to Austin, TX, and deserve to break out internationally. Not only is their music full of kinetic energy and bounce, and produced by Gary Clark Jr., their live performance is absolutely insane. Chemistry is everything in a rapper duo, and these guys came straight out of Walter White’s lab. Their routine is air tight, never stumbling over each other verbally or physically, and they play off each other’s energy which causes a chain reaction with their audience, resulting in epic pandemonium for the finale of their set.
We may be a little partial to G because he hails from our part of the state of North Carolina, but the guy is a certified beast on the mic. He spits with a traditional style flow in a way that gives him the ability to express himself powerfully and succinctly, putting his skills as a champion poet on display. G is already well on his way to international greatness having recently spent a stint of time in Japan, mingling with Tokyo’s rap scene, and currently is on the U.S. west coast leg of Dumbfounded's "The Yikes! Tour".
Bobby Sessions blew everyone away at Mass Appeal’s “Live at the BBQ” event on St. Patrick’s Day, even DJ Statik Selektah who praised his performance as the best of the openers, promising to work with him soon. The praise was well deserved. Bobby, a Dallas emcee, is a new signee to Def Jam’s roster, and has a no-frills style that cuts to the bone. He raps about real life, not chains, cars, and money, and his work ethic as a hopeful rapper who left his full time job with only $50 in the bank to pursue music a couple years ago, shows in his air tight stage presence.
Honorable Mentions: Valee, Bad Gyal, Eearz
Keep Paying Attention To:
Maxo’s new album Punken is a little more toned down than his previous projects, but his live show absolutely is not! Another standout from “Live at the BBQ” Trigga Maxo was literally everywhere at SXSW, putting on live performances that sent audiences into hysterics, keeping the energy going throughout his set lists. Call a promoter and get him to your city ASAP, because no matter how hard the track “Go” sounds through your headphones, there’s no comparison to how Maxo performs it live. With energy like his, and an ability to connect to an audience the way he does, Maxo isn’t just a sensation, he’s got more to accomplish in the rap game.
Smokepurpp’s lo fi simplicity makes him a dividing force in modern hip hop, with fans of lyrical rap and highly technical production calling his music too dumbed down, and Soundcloud rap fans connecting to his DIY, “every man” approach. At the end of the day, it’s what you can do on stage that differentiates hype from skills as an emcee, and Smokepurpp can move a crowd. He hit the Pandora stage on night 2 of SXSW Music in front of an audience that was already annoyed by major delays in the show schedule, a lazy two-song performance by YFN Lucci (because of the delays), and a no-show from Lil Xan, but turned the crowd into a mosh pit. The defining factor of his effectiveness as a performer is that he genuinely has fun on stage which is infectious, and if his positive attitude persists, we will probably see a lot more from the Miami rapper/producer.
Another North Carolina emcee we may or may not be partial to due to hometown alliances, but Rapsody’s body of work has proven itself -- with Grammy nods and cosigns by virtually every notable player in the rap game – Rap is more than hype. She’s the full embodiment of an emcee, and her grip on her audience is tight. What makes Rapsody stand out is that her presence is undeniably strong and feminine, but not pushing the envelope too far to either side. She’s incredibly balanced, which is what gives her the ability to declare to her audience as she did on St. Patty’s day to a packed crowd: “Don’t call me a female emcee, don’t call me a ‘femcee,’ none of that. When you talk about Rapsody, you say, ‘that motherfucker is a beast!’”
Look out for new Rapsody music as she reunites with Kooley High on their album “Never Come Down,” produced by 9th Wonder, and her episode on the new Netflix series "Rapture" releasing on March 30th.
Honorable Mentions: Wifisfuneral, Cuz Lightyear, Slim Jxmmy
Write Off
Lil Xan
The 21 year old called Pac's music boring and almost got jumped in a fast food restaurant parking lot by a bunch of high school kids for it. All of this while he was supposed to be performing at SX. Look, we get it. Sometimes business deals pop up and you must cancel shows – King Mez cancelled his SXSW 2016 shows because he cruised the Mediterranean on Dr. Dre’s yacht instead. Totally understandable. But Lil Xan trashing one of hip hop’s most sacred fallen pioneers on some young vs old nonsense, then getting chased by a bunch of kids younger than him for his blasphemy, is laughable to the point that we need to just put his ass back on the shelf. That ain’t hip-hop and we guarantee we’ll find a more interesting Soundcloud sensation soon.
All photos taken by Charles Morse for Dopecausewesaid
Charles Morse is a music journalist and DJ based in Raleigh, NC. Follow his photography on IG @ironlense.