Domo Genesis Releases New Mixtape "Aren't U Glad You're U" and Video "Me Vs. Me"
@DamierGenesis is back to share a new mixtape produced entirely by Evidence entitled "Aren't U Glad You're U?"...
Domo Genesis is back to share a new mixtape produced entirely by Evidence. "Aren't U Glad You're U?" is out now, and to coincide with the release Domo is sharing a video for "Me Vs. Me" taken from the new project. The previously unannounced "Aren't U Glad You're U?" follows Domo's last mixtape "Red Corolla", released this past June, and his debut album "Genesis" which released in March of 2016. The new mixtape is executive produced by LA producer Evidence, who is noted for his past work with The Alchemist, Sid Roams, and Jake One.
Deal The Villain Drops New Album "Jackson Jones", Produced Entirely by Madlib
New Jersey artist @deal_thevillain came straight out the gate this year with an absolute gem of an album "Jackson Jones", featuring production entirely by @madlib
New Jersey artist Deal The Villain came straight out the gate this year with an absolute gem of an album, after releasing his under-appreciated EP "Beards, Beats & Kicks" earlier in 2017. The Garden State lyricist spent the rest of last year silently locking himself away in the studio plotting this surprise concept. "Jackson Jones" lyrically illustrates a collection of distinctive beats by one of the greatest producers in Hip-Hop, Otis Jackson Jr. aka Madlib. Even though the album is 15 tracks deep its runtime is only around EP length, each one designed to be as concise and succinct as possible sitting under 2 minutes long. "Jackson Jones" is a uniquely cohesive fusion of Deal The Villain [Lyrics] and Madlib [Beats] that can only be heard via Bandcamp. Check it out below.
Stream/Download "Jackson Jones" on Bandcamp
Connect with Deal The Villain: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Rejjie Snow Releases "Dear Annie: Part 1", Plus New Single "Egyptian Luvr" Featuring Amine
Dublin's @rejjiesnow just dropped the first installment of his highly anticipated debut album "Dear Annie"...
Dublin's Rejjie Snow just dropped the first installment of his highly anticipated debut album "Dear Annie". Released through Honeymoon/300 Entertainment, the completed "Dear Annie" will arrive on February 16th. Written and recorded across Los Angeles, London and Paris, "Dear Annie" is a genre-spanning opus of 20 tracks that features production from Kaytranada, Cam O'bi, Rahki, and Lewis Ofman, with guest appearances from Aminé, Jesse James Solomon, and Anna of the North. "Dear Annie" is a sweeping, cinematic overture and bold statement of intent from the wise-beyond-his-years 23-year old.
The release comes a day after Annie Mac premiered the first single from the record on her BBC Radio 1 show. "Egyptian Luvr" is produced by Kaytranada and features Aminé. Speaking on the single Rejjie explains that "the song is about your last moments. Tomorrow isn't promised and we learn this the hard way. The last moments with your lover. In this song I was in my last moments telling my girl how much I love her and thank you for this journey we rode."
See below for full details on Rejjie's debut album.
Rejjie Snow
Dear Annie
Honeymoon / 300 Entertainment
(February 16, 2017)
1. Hello
2. Rainbows
3. The Wonderful World of Annie
4. 23
5. Pink Lemonade
6. Skinny Jasmine Intermission
7. Mon Amour
8. Oh No!
9. Spaceships (feat. Ebenezer)
10. Egyptian Luvr (feat. Aminé)
11. The Ends
12. Room 27
13. Désolé
14. The Rain
15. Skateboard P Intermission
16. LMFAO
17. Bye Polar
18. Charlie Brown (feat. Anna of the North)
19. Annie
20. Greatness
Interview: London-Born, Miami Based Rap Artist Tim Ajayi
@1TimAJAYI is a Miami based rap artist who originally hails from London and we connected with him for an exclusive interview...
Tim Ajayi is a Miami based rap artist who originally hails from London and last fall, we featured his very DOPE and highly recommended EP "Made For More". We do our best to stay in touch with the artists we feature on DCWS, so it's only right that we connect with Tim for this exclusive interview.
Enjoy the Q&A with Tim Ajayi and then be sure to follow him on his social media streams and most importantly, stream and share the "Made For More" EP.
Coming from London to the US, how is urban culture different across the pond in terms of music and fashion?
The UK urban culture is very underground, with little desire to change and conform, that’s what gives it the raw essence you hear and see. This allows for unfiltered expressions, whether it's the music or the fashion. It really is a reflection of how things are, rather than the way we’d like it to be. With the US being 100 times bigger, I think there is more variety in the US urban culture giving it a stronger social influence, but maybe a weaker sense of identity.
Following up on that first question, how is your London upbringing conveyed through your music?
If you were to look at the map of the London underground you would see numerous train lines and routes all interconnected but going different places. I think that’s a representation of my flow/delivery. As an MC I’m able to explore several different pockets of a beat that your standard rapper wouldn't catch. That’s purely because I grew up on Grime, the sound of London, and we went over 140 BPM beats, which is much quicker than a Hip Hop/Rap beat. This is what gives it that raw essence I spoke of.
For someone who has never heard Grime music before, describe it for them.
Grime is an energy that empowers you. Though it is built on the experience of pain, it literally eliminates all weakness when you listen to it. Fast, experimental beats matched with an unpredictable, punchy delivery of braggadocious yet honest bars. It’s a new experience every time you hit play.
Why is spirituality important for you to address through your music?
Simply because I believe that's what and who we truly are. As I learned more about myself I started to understand I will never know it all, and that’s what spirituality is to me - an infinite journey. Music is, or at least should be the same. It’s an art and art in its true form is timeless. So merging the two just makes sense… for me.
Congratulations on the release of the "Made For More" EP. What does this project mean to you and what are you most proud of with it?
Thank you! You know it’s funny because at first the project was no more than a showcase of my ability and experiences. But as it materialized it started to have a deeper meaning to me. Basically, the project is my realization that I’m here to do greater things than I anticipated. So it makes sense that it’s my debut tape. Honestly I think I’m most proud of the fact that I actually released it on time and the track “Get Used to It”. My cousin Sensei Mansa from London produced the beat and we were lucky to have an upcoming Miami artist Dyna Edyne feature on it. That’s 3 very different energies combining to create, my first time working like that so it was cool and it came out dope.
If you had to describe your music to a stranger in three words, which ones would you select?
Thoughtful, Adventurous and Penetrating (or “For the people)
Can we expect a video of a song from the EP soon? If so, which one?
Of course. I’ll be dropping a video to the 2nd song “What Is Life”. I think this track embodies the meaning of the whole project and it’s a smooth listen, so no brainer for me there.
Connect with Tim Ajayi: Connect with Tim Ajayi: Instagram | Twitter | Facebook
Los Angeles Rap Artist and Producer Harry Melrose Releases "BLURS II EP"
@harrymelrose323 returns with darker rhythms, honest bars and sticky hooks on his new release "BLURS II EP"...
Harry Melrose returns with darker rhythms, honest bars and sticky hooks on his follow up to the first EP he released last year, with "BLURS II EP". From the somber and melancholic, opener, "Home" to the infatuated and haunting "The Importance of Remembering Names", Harry Melrose dives into the sequel EP with a heavy emphasis on dragging out the latin beats that played around his LA home growing up. The Young American Joy Division once again produces every single beat he flows, sings and croons on. The work ethic on the angelino is one to take note of, as he is certain of success in the coming year. Upbeat, tongue-in-cheek bangers like "Backdoor" and "Midnight Calling" beg to be played on the dance floor at the same moody, selfish and hopeless college parties that inspired the lyrics on both tracks. "Rosewood Ave" and "El Lobo" contain some of young rose's most honest and sincere bars as they give the audience a peek into the upbringing as a first generation american in an underdeveloped latin neighborhood and the aspirations that the 21 year old strives to accomplish. "Future Wife" contains the most flashy and glossy production that Melrose has composed to date, while "We Don't Need to be UK Based" pays homage to UK Garage and European dance from the 90s and early 2000s.
"BLURS II EP" will follow the blueprint of the original "BLURS" EP, to capture the experiences around adolescence, growing up in Los Angeles, while being as challenging and sonically diverse as possible.
Check out the EP below and keep on the look out for some more captivating singles soon.
Thoughts on the Relentless Moe Menace and His "Black Ninja" EP From Last Year
It’s rare to find a real artist in Hip-Hop nowadays, but after discovering an EP called "Black Ninja" by @moemenace_ I couldn’t forget it...
Scrolling through my Soundcloud feed, it’s hard to ignore the talentless, DIY thug rappers trying to make a buck off a sound that guarantees clicks in this day and age. The tracks feature cheaply packaged trap beats and the same words recycled. It’s rare to find a real artist in Hip-Hop nowadays, but after discovering an EP called "Black Ninja" by Moe Menace, I couldn’t forget it.
Menace might not have a huge following, but he has the makings of a legend, and we look forward to seeing him grow as an artist. His instrumentals have a throwback feel to them, and they're truly instrumentals, not just some showy inundation of 808s, high hats, and snares. They make use of minimal sax, piano, and drum-lines, echoing in our ears for long after.
West coast based Moe Menace has a feel comparable to 90's rappers, his impressive bars live up to his memorable flow, which is rarer and rarer nowadays. We'd describe his vibes as aspirational, with a little dose of hood - but there's none of that ego-centric, dumbed down catchy rap like Migos or 21 Savage (though make no mistake, it's still contagious in its own right).
Menace isn’t about rapping on bling and girls with fake asses, or capitalizing on that in his videos. He reminds us what rap was like before this era. He makes us remember the real goodies like De la Soul and A Tribe Called Quest (RIP Phife). His recent "Black Ninja" EP features killer tracks that feel truly original, with socially conscious tracks like "Don't Shoot". On a less serious note, "Material Girls" is another one of our favorites. The EP is a whopping 16 tracks, which we'd normally say is too long, but each track has hefty substance, seamlessly flowing into each other, like a mix you never want to end.
Stream "5 Am Somewhere", the New EP by Dallas Rap Artist Hazlewxxd
"5 AM Somewhere", the new EP by @hazlewxxd has already created a buzz in the SoundCloud community...
Hazlewxxd is a Hip-Hop artist and producer based out of Dallas, Texas. His music is raw and heartfelt, an emotionally-driven testament of his impassioned nature. Channeling his artistic creativity through proficient lyricism, he seeks to spread a positive influence to people, and cites Eminem, Kid Cudi, and Big K.R.I.T. as his main influences.
Hazlewxxd's latest project, "5 AM Somewhere" has already created a buzz in the SoundCloud community, generating over 25k plays total. Producing all of the tracks on this wavy EP himself, a unique vibe is created on each track. And with homespun loops from the backwoods of Texas, Hazlewxxd serves up a fresh perspective on contemporary Hip-Hop.
Review: Newy Gee’s "The Shady Lady Motel" EP
The most striking thing about "The Shady Lady Motel" by @newygee is the subtlety of the production—every track has these quiet background noises, echoes of Newy Gee’s voice, distorted, haunting, that is reminiscent of Kendrick Lamar...
Xaatu’s production on “Red Light District” sets the scene, and it’s a moody one. Right off the bat, Newy Gee’s "The Shady Lady Motel" announces itself as an introspective, dark collection of tracks.
This aesthetic continues on “Vacancy (Prod. By D V N),” with ambient sounds swirling around Newy Gee’s voice, which is earnest and focused throughout the track. This is the story of someone who is struggling with something:
I can’t get no more/they took all of me
I reach deep for more/I feel vacancy
It not only evokes emptiness, but also the sense of homelessness—vacancy, like a room in a motel. And this feeling continues throughout the entire album.
The most striking thing about "The Shady Lady Motel" is the subtlety of the production—every track has these quiet background noises, echoes of Newy Gee’s voice, distorted, haunting, that is reminiscent of Kendrick Lamar.
“The Curve” is probably the most interesting track, an ode to anxiety with a memorable beat. This is the sound of someone who is unraveling, who knows he is unraveling, but who wants to make art out of even the worst situation.
If you’re looking for something upbeat, you’re not going to find it on "The Shady Lady Motel", but if you’re in the mood to gaze into the abyss, Newy Gee will lead you to a deeply introspective place. On “Heal My Soul,” he is searching for a way to do exactly that. One only hopes that through the creation of art, he has possibly found a way.
Interview: VA Based Rap Artist Newy Gee Talks About His EP "The Shady Lady Motel" and What's to Come in 2018
We started 2018 out on the right foot by connecting with VA rapper @newygee for an exclusive interview to discuss his newly released EP "The Shady Lady Motel"...
We started 2018 out on the right foot by connecting with Winchester, VA based rap artist Newy Gee for an exclusive interview to discuss his newly released EP "The Shady Lady Motel", find out what he feels was his biggest accomplishment in 2017, and much more.
After reading our Q&A with Newy Gee, be sure to follow him on Twitter and IG, and most importantly, stream "The Shady Lady Motel" and let us know you think it's dope by sharing it with some friends.
Tell us about how you got started as an artist. Was there a specific artist, album or event in your life that propelled you towards music?
I started writing raps around 10 years old with my cousin AJ who went by Newy Rocky at the time. At first it was just for fun, just kind of a thing we did, but he took it seriously recording his music while I just continued to occasionally write just to rap for close friends at parties and whatever. Fast forward a couple years later, I'm 16 and I get introduced to a guy that goes to my high school in Winchester, VA by the name of Tyler who is pretty much family now, but he had a small collective called Everything Dope who was popping in the area even though its a small town and he fucked with the style of music I made, so we went on to make a bunch of music together until I joined the Army. At this point I had pretty much given up on making music and during my service I went through this crazy depression that had me spiraling out of control. I needed an outlet to take thoughts out of my head so I started writing again until I found a studio to record it.
Congrats on the release of “The Shady Lady Motel” EP. Describe your creative process for this project for us. How long did it take to complete and did you have an overarching theme for it?
I appreciate it, truly. As far as the creation of the tape. I watched a movie called the Machinist with Christian Bale and how he couldn't sleep and it seemed like all his demons were lingering with him. With the things going on in my life at the time, I couldn't relate to anything more. There is a scene in the movie where he rides a rollercoaster with this kid and he shields his eyes as they past a set displayed as the Shady Lady Motel. That part felt profound to me. I remember that part vividly because it drew all these random songs I wrote together. As far as the inspiration for the tape, it was just the daily experiences I was living. From being put on antidepressants, conversations with my dad, an ex of mine dying from a heroine overdose, Being put in a psych ward after a bad acid trip. It was all just a personal hell I was living in my head and creating these songs released the angst. I'm really not this much of a downer in person but, I truly believe I walk between the living and the dead. This is the only way I'm able to open up and I hope it can save someone like it saved me.
Can we expect some visuals for the tracks on the EP?
Yes. The Vacancy video is done and it's so dope but, external things have slowed the process of release for it. It will be out late January..... Maybe.
What do you feel was your biggest accomplishment as an artist in 2017?
My brother Tyler has a little brother and he has always loved my music. I shot a video in October with Lil Skies homeboy Nick Jandora for my song Vacancy and my biggest accomplishment was hearing that his little brother was in his room rapping trying to set up his room like the room is set up in the video. That's honestly the coolest thing in the world.
Following up on the last question, what are you most looking forward to in 2018 in regards to your music?
I've been recording for my next project "Medicine Cabinet Mirror" at ID Labs in Pittsburgh. I'm excited because I learned a lot of lessons making this past project as far as quality of sound and how to record. I know what I need to do this time. That's just as far as music goes. I still have a lot of lessons to learn but nothing worth having is easy. 2018 will be fun.
Lastly, I would just like to say this was cool, you guys are doing something really cool for the culture and I hope you guys prosper. Keep doing what y'all do.
10 Songs You May Not Have Heard in 2017 (That You Really Should)
These ten songs are not only some of my favorites released in 2017, they are also tracks that I think should have gotten much more attention...
The ten songs below are not only some of my favorites released in 2017, they are also tracks that I think should have gotten much more attention. Give each a spin to take a trip through some of 2017’s best.
1. “too bad” by dollys
“too bad” is the great intro track to dolly’s final album, “tense,” released in July 2017. It’s also too bad it was their last album, because it’s a great one.
2. “Plimsoll Punks” by Alvvays
Alvvays got its fair share of attention in 2017, but it was tracks like “In Undertow” and “Dreams Tonite,” with their official video releases, that were the face of the album. “Plimsoll Punks” and “Not My Baby” might be the best on the album (though it’s a great release from beginning to end).
3. “Close Encounters” by C.R. and the Degenerates
This track would have been a perfect inclusion in Twin Peaks: The Return, and it’s a bit of a different sound for C.R. and the Degenerates. Thankfully, it works, creating a moody, introspective, dreamy song you won’t forget.
4. “Pls” by Flower Crown
If Slowdive’s self-titled 2017 release wasn’t enough shoegaze for you, then dive into Flower Crown.
5. “Global Warming” by Binary Star
Reminiscent of “Mathematics” by Mos Def, both with an immediately engaging beat and with the weight of each verse.
6. “Expect The Bayonet” by Sheer Mag
With a bass line as catchy as any classic Motown tune, but mixed with some grit and a punk ethos, “Expect The Bayonet,” is well worth repeated listening.
7. “Learning Curve” by Make-Overs
South Africa’s Make-Overs bring us fuzzy, noisy, pure garage goodness with “Learning Curve.” From beginning to end it sounds as if the track is about to burst apart, but it just barrels forward with a track that must be even better live than it is on record.
8. “I Was A Fool” by Sunflower Bean
Another great female/male vocal trade-off from Sunflower Bean, driven forward by a bass line that keeps you bouncing from beginning to end.
9. “Couch Surfin USA” by YJY
Technically this track was released in 2015, but the updated version was also released on YJY’s first (and sadly last) full-length album in 2017. There’s a reason they included it on both their debut 2015 EP and their final full-length—it’s great.
10. “Daisy” by Wavves
This is a new sound from Wavves, with some strange, but awesome samples included alongside their beachy, California punk ethos.
Interview: Colorado Springs Based Rap Artist Bug-Z
We connected with Bug-Z for an exclusive interview to find out more about the visual, his motivations to pick up the pen...
Bug-Z is a Colorado Springs, Colorado based rap artist who just dropped a brand new video entitled "Sake". We connected with Bug-Z for an exclusive interview to find out more about the visual, his motivations to pick up the pen and pad in the first place, the music scene in Colorado Springs, and much more.
After reading our Q&A with Bug-Z, be sure to follow him on his social media streams and stay tuned because we believe he'll be doing big things in 2018.
Congratulations on your new music video "Sake"; it looked like the shoot was a lot of fun. How did you and your team come up with the video treatment and who directed it?
The idea for geisha themed video shoot was inspired @ Playhouse Night Club (Hollywood, CA) on Halloween. I was invited out by a club promoter I know, model @ his table was Spanish yet wearing a kimono. I decided to book Airbnb in downtown Denver to film (With Permission) I found all vehicles online (Private Seller) and I rented them. I work as Prop Director/Location coordinator on all of my visuals. Yet was filmed by only videographer I trust @JAngelVisuals in 4k with stabilization & drones. I ordered Postmates for the Sushi/Food & bought as many bottles of Sake as possible (Liquor Store) Amazon was/is my best friend! The giant panda in video was nearly $100.00 alone. I must of ordered dozens of amazon packages of Props for shoot. Props are VERY important to me.
I hired THC Girl Models and IG Models I knew along with "Friends" etc to cast my Geisha's. I wear AAPE by A Bathing Ape and BAPE/Gucci in video to go along with my lyrical content. Once again visuals are very important to me!
Will we hear "Sake" on an upcoming mixtape or EP in early 2018?
Sake is a single release. I plan to push it as a single. I plan to devote year or longer to promoting it by itself, blowing it up as a single. Similar like Fetty Wap did Trap Queen with Nitt Da Gritt & RGF Productions/Island.
Tell us about how you got to this point as an artist? How long have you been rapping and what initially motivated you to pick up the pen and pad?
Funny you say pen & pad. I've been writing lyrics since I was a child. In a Group Home. Would be punished and have to sit in hallway from wake up til bed. All I had was pencil and paper and I couldn't draw. Was heavily influenced by Eminem. Slim Shady LP. Yet get spelling of my name from Jay-Z, Bug-Z has been branded into my right arm since I was 10 years old by my friend "Taz" he had same brand with his name. I wanted nickname that was a Looney Toon with a Z on the end. Bug-Z. later in life found out about Bugsy Malone, Bugsy Calhoun and most importantly Bugsy Siegel.
I'm a certified audio engineer. I've been making music my entire life now. My mom used to work in nightclubs when I was little. She used to take me to work with her. The DJ would make mix tapes. I would know all the words and impress all my moms friends rapping lyrics etc. I've always been a fan of hip hop since day 1 and music.
As a kid I loved Montell Jordan This is How We Do It, and honestly one of first groups I ever heard was Salt-N-Peppa (Thanks Mom)
Describe the music scene for Hip-Hop in Colorado Springs; do locals support the artists in the area?
I'm in a transplant to Colorado. I came here for the "Green Rush" etc. I have a lot of fans, but the HATE IS REAL. Black Balling/Sneak Dissing etc...
I am trying to blow up on national level and force feed my music down their throats. I love Colorado, I love my fans. F*** anyone else!
What do you look forward to the most in 2018 as an artist?
I look forward to the biggest single debut of my career, celebrity features, million video hits, record deal and or becoming financially successful as a indie artist.
Interview: New Jersey Based Rap Artist Yxng Mango
Our latest exclusive interview is with New Jersey based rap artist @wavermuthafucka who just dropped a very DOPE music video entitled "Look at Me"...
Our latest exclusive interview is with New Jersey based rap artist Yxng Mango who just dropped a very DOPE music video entitled "Look at Me". We connected with this talented emcee to find out how he came up with his name, the state of the music scene in his hometown, his goals for 2018 and much more.
Enjoy our Q&A with Yxng Mango and then follow him on his social media streams to stay up to date on what's next from this artist who's bound to blow in 2018.
What's the origin of your name "Yxng Mango"?
The origin Of Yxng Mango is trendy and straightforward.... Yung Man Go... Every time I'm contemplating something I think Man Go for it no time to waste your still young...Also make sure its fresh & unique like a mango not everyone likes mango's the same some like them super soft or a little on the firm side just gotta make sure there's something a little different in each song I make.
What part of New Jersey are you from and what's the scene like for music and emerging artists there?
The area that I'm from in New Jersey is the Shore Ocean County better known for Six Flags. The scene for music in my area for me is tough; its like being in an area where you can make something happen but if you aren't giving it 110% there's no way out everything MUST be new and next level. Gotta be focused and highly motivated cause its not a city area where the word spreads quickly but all the surrounding towns and mine make up a very powerful and unique music culture that I'm honored to be a part of.
Salute to you, the director and your team for dropping a very dope video for your track "Look at Me". Tell us a little bit about the track and how you ended up shooting visuals for it.
The idea for the song "Look at Me" wasn't intentionally gonna be made into a song that was going to be released as quick as it was... I actually had the song written for at least two months or more... it was more or less like a release song for myself just self expression but once it was fully recorded and mastered I had no choice too shoot a music video for it. I originally was gonna shoot a video for my "Super Soaker" track a few days after recording "Look at Me", but the feeling of this song just made me change up everything about what was planned...and we just got to it.
Describe your creative process for "Look at Me" and for your music in general. Do you write lyrics before deciding on an instrumental or after?
It usually depends when I write music, sometimes the instrumental will inspire me to paint a picture in my head just as I did for "Look at Me". Sometimes its just a straight through shot for a song and I'll find an instrumental later on and make it work if it fits. Other times I'll just write down certain things that sound good and flow nicely and I'll construct something out of pieces of a puzzle.
With 2017 being a wrap, what do you look forward to the most in 2018?
The close of 2017 and into the new year I cannot wait to bring all of my creative ideas to light in full effect along with the dope artists that I'm collaborating with. And most importantly SHOWS... The Ball's Rolling.
Connect with Yxng Mango: Twitter | Instagram | Soundcloud
Interview: ABCeez Talks About His New EP "IntroToABCeezMind"
Our latest exclusive interview is with Bay area rap artist ABCeez who recently dropped a six-song EP entitled "IntroToABCeezMind"...
Our latest exclusive interview is with Bay area rap artist ABCeez who recently dropped a new six-song EP entitled "IntroToABCeezMind". We ask him about how the EP came together, his thoughts on the new Eminem album, his goals for early 2018 and much more. Enjoy the Q&A and then be sure to stream the new EP and follow ABCeez on IG!
Congratulations on the release of your EP "IntroToABCeezMind". Tell us about how the project came together, i.e. how long it took to finish, who were the producers, etc.
For my EP it took around a month to make, I just found random producers online who I like their style. Izak who produces YBN Nahmirs rubbing off the paint is one of the producers on the tape that stands out I really feeling his beats they go. For the track Cinnamon I knew I needed a darker type beat something funky so I was searching for a odd future type beat. Those dudes I really look up to and are one of the most influential people in my music. And for the track "AnAmericanBedtimeStory" I wanted a beat that could hit your soul you know make you feel some type of way. So I was searching for a Kid Cudi type beat. Cudi is also one of the artist that inspire me a lot. For the track "WhoYou" it was the last I recorded cause my friend just showed me a random beat and I was just felt some way like "WhoYou" and that was all just a freestyle actually. JustDaIcon mixed and mastered the whole project. If you notice the cover to I have a hourglass that's my thing it helps remind me that the time is now and its always going. Also if you see the clothes in the back are organized in the order of the mexican flag that is because I am half mexican. Blue is my favorite color so that's the bandana, I do not gang bang.
What are you most proud of with the EP?
The most proud part of the EP is that people actually like it, being that it is the first project I put out and really didn’t have much help making considering I record alone write alone and don’t have an in house engineer. Like I still record out of my closet given the cover having it look as if it is in my room. Very proud how it came out as a full project being I feel it really takes you on a quick trip through my brain. From party vibes and wanting to be ignorant and young. To the evil side of my brain with crazy thoughts to a deep track tracing issues in my past that I feel still haunt my mind to this day. Overall I am just proud I put out a dope project form my room and I got a couple thousand views that's crazy to me, to even see I got people actually listening to me in Paris its trip.
You mention that Eminem is your favorite rapper; what do you think about his new album?
Em new album isn’t bad, he’s a older man so I really didn't know what to expect. I know that he is very mature though and is very connected to America he is a icon and has a voice that people will listen too. I think for this album it was less about party music or top ten songs even though he still is gonna get them with this tape it was just more about him expressing his thoughts. I mean he raps about kidnapping and killing the President's daughter to me that's still some pretty savage eminem shit. He still got a dark twisted mind, he just has a mature one also and knows people will listen so he gotta drop some knowledge. Some of that shit though the beats be sounding to alternative rockish or sum.
If you had to describe your music to a stranger in only three words, which ones would you select?
Three words would be goofy because i try to be different kind of funny. Goofy but I aint no goofy don’t get that mistaken. Energetic that music that makes you want move, myself imma hyper ass dude so in my music Imma try to display that and let yall know how I’m coming. Conscious, I know what the fuck going on, I ain't blind I be up to date with current events in the culture. Keep that eye open yahdig. Self conscious yah know.
What's next after the EP? What are your musical goals for early 2018?
Man too much, I go day by day not year by year. But 2018 I got big features coming with TreezLowkey, Lil House Phone, and Yung Bans just trying to network get my name out there more and work with bigger artist get my name some weight. I will be at SXSW 2018 so if you digging me you guys can catch me there the 16th of March at the Bat Bar. 2018 is the year for me to get my name out there let people know I’m serious and a good rapper that can give you any vibe you really want. But I really wanna continue to make energetic music to get people hyped, that's what I enjoy doing. Imma work on dropping many projects as many as I possibly can. Working on features with smaller artist too, any that want a verse form me right now. Networking on the network, ain't what you know, it's who you know. So if you think you could see me on a song with you then don’t be afraid to hit me up. I have been talking to a rep from Capital Records and he said he was really liking my music and my style so we just gotta see. SKEEWEEE one love! tuhhh shoutout the squad heemteam yah dig.
Connect with ABCeez: Instagram
Interview: Maryland Based Rap Artist Jake Crawford
Check out our exclusive interview with Maryland emcee @JCrawfordMusic
Jake Crawford is a Maryland based rap artist whose cinematic music video "Don't Lie" is one of our favorite visuals of the moment. We connected with this talented emcee for a Q&A to find out how the video came together, what we can expect from his upcoming EP "Shades", his dream collaboration and much more.
After reading our exclusive interview with Jake, be sure to follow him on his social media streams to stay up to date on all things "Jake Crawford" and to know when the "Shades" EP will be released.
We're really digging the visuals for your track "Don't Lie". Tell us about how the treatment for the video came together and how you connected with the director.
The videographer is great. Like really great. His names Bradley Gillespie. Really cool down to earth guy. He's done a lot of work for Choo Jackson who used to be on Mac Miller's Most Dope Label. I trusted his eye and I told him what I was looking for and he helped me find a good spot that had a spooky enough vibe. It was a real honest feel to it that I don't think I could of got from anyone else at the time. He had been wanting to shoot something with me since I dropped my song Road to Gold a few years ago. We just finally made it happen.
Tell us about your upcoming EP "Shades". How many songs besides "Don't Lie" will be included and is there an overlying theme to the project?
Shades is really my first "break out" project. I had one a few years ago called "Change of Pace" that was really good but I don't think I has quite developed my own style at the time. This project I've really gotten to bring out a lot of different parts of me. Hence the title being "Shades" representing the different shades of myself. Overall I would say Shades has a darker theme to it. It definitely came from a darker place inside me that came out the last couple years of my life. Battling heartbreak with me and my daughter's mother splitting up. Going through heavy drug addiction. And my rehabilitation as well. So it definitely holds a strong underlining meaning for me and I can not wait to show the world who I am and what I've been through. I hope it helps other people grow in their times of grief and pain.
How did you get your start rapping and who were some artists that influenced you?
I started writing music at a really young age. I always wanted to sing. I was inspired by Michael Jackson as a child. But I think Eminem was a really big part of be making music. He inspired me a lot. My father is actually the first person that took strong notice and decided to record me. Him and his friends used to record in Montgomery County, MD and he would bring me when I would visit. One day I decided to show him what I had going on and ever since then he's believed in me. He's always been really supportive of my music. Even If he didn't enjoy all my songs. He says I always keep it real with everyone and myself and people can relate to that heavy.
Describe the music scene in your area of Maryland, specifically for Hip-Hop. Would you say that locals are supportive of native acts?
The music scene where I'm from is small. My good friend Wiley Flew whose life was recently taken, R.I.P., gave me and a lot of others our first shows. That man gave a lot of people opportunities to grow around Hagerstown, MD. Dreadeye, the rap group in general helped a lot of people. Me being from Boonsboro right outside of Hagerstown, it was hard to get heard. They definitely put me on and helped get my name out there. They were the first to believe in me.
If you could collab with any artist of any genre on a song, who would you select and why?
Right now if I could collab with anyone it would probably be Post Malone. A lot of people tell me I remind them of him. I've never really listened to a lot of his music but I really enjoy what I have heard and I really think we could make something great together. But my goal is to get that Drake feature on a project one day. I rep OVO forever. Drake changed the way I viewed hiphop forever. He opened the door for a lot of singer/rappers like me to to their thing.
C.Shreve the Professor Releases New Album "Daddy Love To Rap" and Music Video "The Toast"
North Carolina's very own @freetheoptimus has returned with another brand new release and video for your eyes and ears...
C.Shreve the Professor has returned with another brand new release for your eyes and ears. Intent to finish 2017 with a bang, Shreve brings us his follow up to the "Mommy Love To Dance" EP with the appropriately titled full length project "Daddy Love To Rap", complete with a shiny new music video to lead the way.
Stream/Download "Daddy Love To Rap":
https://freetheoptimus.bandcamp.com/album/daddy-love-to-rap
https://soundcloud.com/freetheoptimus/sets/daddy-love-to-rap
The Toast (Official Video)
Directed by Andrew Anderson. Production by Pat Junior.
DLTR largely keeps the production in state, with North Carolina beatmakers Grove$ide, Pat Junior, FLUE, B Squared, and FLLS all contributing tracks. The album also features 4 songs from Greece based producer Delta Sigma.
"Now let's not think. Now let's just feel
Let's just look until we blink and let's just try to let it build
Let us cook, have a drink--yeah it's time to eat a meal
Have a toast to these moments, they all we got that's real"
In addition to DLTR, C.Shreve the Professor has also just released a collection called The Lost Files: https://freetheoptimus.bandcamp.com/album/the-lost-files
Connect with C.Shreve the Professor: Website | Twitter | Instagram
Diives Remixes Wiley, Giggs And More In Debut Mixtape "Something To Climb (part I)"
North Wales singer/mc/producer and all round creative @diivesmusic1 has dropped his explosive debut mixtape "Something To Climb (part I)"...
North Wales singer/mc/producer and all round creative Diives has dropped his explosive debut mixtape. "Something To Climb (part I)" is an 8 track offering of remixes and covers including versions of some of this year’s biggest bangers from the likes of Stormzy, Wiley and Giggs.
The mixtape showcases Diives flair for combining dark alternative pop melodies with grime instrumentals and hard, angst driven bars. The crossover appeal is evident as there’s even a more acoustic Liam Gallagher cover in there! 'Something To Climb (part I)' follows his latest single ‘Stayed Too Long’, released in November and which has been championed by BBC Introducing, Gigslutz and much more.
Prioritizing creative freedom over the confines of traditional genres, Diives explains why his music often defies categorization:
“There’s a lot to say, and lots of different ways to communicate it - People get hung up on looking and sounding a certain way, saying certain things…but not getting pigeon-holed frees you up, so the song finds the voice it needs, not the other way around.”
No doubt this prolific songsmith has plenty in store for 2018..
