Lyric Michelle Shares “Free Thoughts Freestyle” and Announces New Album

Poet, emcee and lyricist Lyric Michelle has just debuted her new music video for "Free Thoughts Freestyle”. Fresh off of playing HipHopDX's official SXSW showcase earlier this month in Austin, Lyric is gearing up to release the album Free Thoughts this May. Known for fusing southern charm, a touch of poetry and a blast of ferocious lyricism, Lyric Michelle is pushing boundaries and opening doors for female emcees.

Winning Houston's Album of the Year and Best Lyricist awards from the Houston Pres with the
release of her 2016 critically acclaimed album MissDirection, Lyric is fast becoming recognized as one of the leading rising artists from the South. Praise for Lyric's provocative sound has poured in from Rolling Stone, NPR, Noisey, and BET among others. Multi-talented, Lyric is also an actress, appearing on a pilot that premiered on Issa Rae's online creative network and winning the Audience Choice Award in the most recent Pan African Film Festival.

For Lyric, it's not just about the music - it's about opening doors for a new crop of female emcees intent on proving that when it comes to lyrical skill, they can go toe to toe with any of their male peers in the game. And indeed she can, as proven after being selected as a Pop Montreal Festival Artist and repeated appearances as an official SXSW and A3C artist.

"I feel as though when people comment on a black woman's strength, they neglect to mention the pain that is needed to create such strength. People forget. I want to remind them."

More about Lyric Michelle:

Chicago bred and Houston raised, Lyric initially got her start in poetry, eventually making a smooth transition from penning prose to spitting bars. Formally bursting onto the scene in 2011 with a cover of J. Cole’s “Light Please,” Lyric easily set herself apart by providing a fresh perspective on Cole’s original theme. From there she quickly gained momentum, as well as a cult following of sorts, opening for or performing alongside artists including Talib Kweli, Jay Electronica, Travis Scott, Joe Budden, Casey Veggies, Mick Jenkins, Jean Grae and more.

Connect with Lyric Michelle: Website | Twitter | Instagram

Stream Kabir's New EP "DAWWG FOOD" Now

Kabir is a DMV based rap artist who recently released a seven track EP called "DAWWG FOOD". The EP was released on Soundcloud, has done over 60K plays, and depicts Kabir's journey through life as an Muslim American, with the only goal of the project being to inspire. 

All seven of the tracks are dope, with no real weak links included on the EP. Kabir definitely drops some thought provoking lyrics about being patient and overcoming diversity, which is something a lot of listeners can relate to. The last track "Orange Basement" will definitely get the DMV natives moving with its Go-Go beat and Kabir's sing-song flow. We highly recommend Kabir's "DAWWG FOOD" EP, so check it out now below and be sure to follow him on IG as well. 

Connect with Kabir: Instagram

THA CAPITAL G's New EP "GIDDY" Due Out Friday, March 30

Haitian-American rapper, THA CAPITAL G, announces his upcoming five-track EP GIDDY, slated to release Friday, March 30.  

After two years of writing, refining his voice, and recording, THA CAPITAL G will release his most personal project yet. While the Boston-raised rapper originally wanted the project to represent a theme of rebirth, the EP became a representation of who he’s always been. The title of the EP—GIDDY—came as a play on his given name (Giddens), the zeal and spirit that went into creating the project, and the uplifting mood he wants listeners to walk away with as the last few notes fade away. 

THA CAPITAL G got his first taste of the limelight when he racked up 70,000 views on videos for his song titled "Amherst State of Mind," a play off the then-timely "Empire State of Mind" by Jay Z and Alicia Keys. Students at nearby universities hopped on the trend, creating their own music video versions and garnering national press for the viral movement.  

Riding the wave of newfound opportunity, THA CAPITAL G was asked to perform at the Mullins Center for his largest crowd yet. Inspired by the experience, he continued shooting videos and performing around campus, producing all of his own work in addition to rapping and singing.  

In November 2013, THA CAPITAL G released his first full-length album, GarageBand Project. Following the release, G took a decisive and reclusive step back to the basics, re-dedicating himself to the art of honing every element of his craft. He knew it was time to take a leap of faith in himself and his career by moving to Los Angeles in order to pursue music full time, work with best-in-class producers, and grow amongst like-minded people; an experience THA CAPITAL G is now unveiling through GIDDY.

Connect with THA CAPITAL G: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Interview: Native American Rapper Joey Stylez Discusses His New Video "My Neechie", Upcoming Album and Indigenous Representation in Hip-Hop

Joey Stylez is a Native American rapper, as well as a visual artist, fashion designer, and social activist from Saskatoon. He is also the winner for Best Rap/Hip Hop Album last year at the Indigenous Music Awards and has just released his new single and video "My Neechie", the first track off his upcoming seventh LP, "The Star Chief". We connected with Joey for this exclusive interview for two main reasons; 1) his music is dope, and 2) he has a story that a lot of minorities in North America can relate to and it needs to be heard by as many people as possible. 

After reading our Q&A with Joey Stylez be sure to follow him on his social media so you will know when it's time to stream/download "The Star Chief" and check out his official website. Lastly, watch "My Neechie" about ten times and share with your friends who appreciate dope visuals and a real message. 

How did you get your start as an artist and who are some of your favorite artists? 

Before I found hip hop, I was totally into The Beatles and The Doors. But, once I hit 11 years old, it was all about NWA, Ice T, and 2pac. That voice and message of anti-oppression really got me hooked. The stories of their hardships were stories I had seen first hand amongst my own people here in Canada.

Describe what it means to be an indigenous emcee from the standpoint that when people outside of your community hear your music or see your visuals, you represent a whole nation. How important is it for you to represent the Cree-Metis nation? 

That's a tricky question. I define myself by my roots, but at the same time I don't want my culture to be a gimmick. I try to present myself in a way that comes across as natural, but still looks and sounds fly. There are lots of artists jumping on horses and sitting in tipis, but that's not their everyday life and is sort of in the questionable pile in my eyes. I let my lifestyle be the content for my music and visuals. I really live a lot of my life by the old ways, so you'll find traces of that sprinkled in my work.

Tell us about your new single "My Neechie". Why did you decide to make this the song that you lead off with from your upcoming album "The Star Chief"?  

To me as an artist, it's our duty to stand against the system that has historically been flawed, and “My Neechie” was just the right song to set the tone of the album. In the prairie region of Canada where I grew up, there is a real divide between the Native American and the Caucasian communities that’s like Cowboys & Indians. Colten Boushie and Tina Fontaine* were two young First Nation people who were murdered in cold blood, and the cops and judicial system really let us down by finding their confessed murderers innocent. 

*Story on Colten Boushie and Tina Fontaine: http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/tina-fontaine-colten-boushie-justice-denied-1.4549469

What can you tell us about "The Star Chief" in terms of a release and where we will able to stream/download it when it drops? 

The Star Chief was made to sound pleasing to the ear, but the theme is all about duality: hot & cold, hate & love, light & dark, and so on. Everything has an opposite. As a Plains Cree, we are the original inhabitants of the Americas and my tribe is often referred to as the Star People, so the title just felt right and matches where I'm at in life right now. I'm really proud of this project, so I will make sure that it's easy to find on all the main outlets. Spotify, YouTube, Google Play, Apple Music, and SoundCloud. It's important to make sure the people have easy access to our body's of work as a service to our following.

Why is social activism important to you and if you could change one thing about how the media portrays the indigenous community in Canada (or North America, in general), what would it be? 

It's what I signed up for in this life. My holy teacher told me, “We all play for one or the other team whether we like it or not," referring to good and evil and I chose to serve love and light. I guess my message and goal is to restore balance, which is what the medicine wheel teaches us. The black, white, red, and yellow humans of the world living in harmony. We are all indigenous to someplace if you really think about it, so we should really go back to living right with the land and put a stop to the divide and conquer agenda.

What message do you have for indigenous kids who look up to you and want to follow in your footsteps as a creative?

My message is go all the way and don't be shy, just dive into the creative juices. The Creator favors creators, so make some beautiful pieces and think of it as your offering to the world. At the end of this life, what you create here is an offering to the Creator.

Looking back at where you first started when you first wrote your first rhymes, what are you most proud of about having to overcome to get where you are now as an award-winning rap artist?

I'm really proud of all the steps it took to get here. On paper, it seemed impossible for me to have videos on TV and songs on the radio with a fan base that spans across the world; but I did it. I am proud of the self-belief and work ethic it took to get here, and the fact I'm not even close to being done yet is the electrifying part.

Connect with Joey Stylez: Website | Twitter

Chuck Strangers Unleashes Debut Album "Consumers Park"

Chuck Strangers is releasing his debut album. Consumers Park is out now via Pro Era Records and Nature Sounds, and is preceded by singles "Fresh" (produced by The Alchemist), "Peaceful" ft. Issa Gold (one half of The Underachievers) and "Style Wars" ft. Joey Bada$$. Primarily produced by Chuck Strangers himself, Consumers Park is sonically masterful, with a heavy emphasis on raw, soulful vibes. This provides the ideal platform for Chuck to showcase his impressive rap skills, with vivid, nostalgic, witty, personal rhymes that perfectly capture the rising star's ongoing journey from Flatbush to international hip-hop notoriety.

Since bursting onto the scene in 2012, Brooklyn hip-hop collective Pro Era has sent shockwaves through the culture. Crew leader Joey Bada$$ has become one of rap's biggest stars, and Pro Era artists like Kirk Knight, Nyck Caution, and CJ Fly have launched their own successful solo careers. Chuck Strangers has been a key member of Pro Era from the start, producing classic Joey Bada$$ tracks like "Daily Routine," "FromdaTomb$," (which he was also featured on) "Summer Knights," My Yout," "Escape 120," "Rockabye Baby," and more. A true double-threat who's just as skilled on the mic as he is behind the boards, Chuck is poised as the next breakout star from the Era. 

Stream/Download "Consumers Park"

Connect with Chuck Strangers: Twitter

Find Out if Hip-Hop Megastar Rich Homie Quan Has a Secret Bank Account and More on Fuse’s New Digital Series, Lie Detector!

Music’s biggest artists are in the hot seat for Fuse’s new digital series, Lie Detector. Find out if hip hop megastar Rich Homie Quan has a secret bank account in a revealing conversation, where the truth will set him free. The episode has just premiered on the Fuse YouTube channel.

Tune in as dad Corey fires a round of probing questions to Rich Homie Quan about cheating in relationships, fatherhood, and collaborating with Taylor Swift  – all while hooked up to a polygraph. Tables turn when his father enters the hot seat and his son learns just how much money he spends at the strip club, and if he thinks his son is a Grammy-worthy artist. 

The pressure is on for both father and son as they are tasked with revealing their deepest and darkest secrets. The episode is available now on Fuse’s official YouTube page so please be sure to subscribe to their channel and hit the notification button to get your weekly dose of celebrity news and hip hop culture.

Interview: London Rap Artist Hazzardd Talks About His New Mixtape "Inside Out", His Musical Inspirations and More

Hazzardd is a talented teenage rapper from London who just released a very DOPE mixtape entitled "Inside Out". After we vibed out to Hazzardd's new release a few times, we felt that it was more than justified that we dig a little deeper with an interview into the mind of an artist who you will be hearing a lot of in the near future. 

After reading our exclusive Q&A with Hazzardd, be sure to stream/download the "Inside Out" mixtape and follow him on his social media streams.  

Tell us about how you got involved in the rap scene in your hometown of London and who are some of your musical inspirations that motivated you to pick up the pen and pad in the first place?

I've listened to hip hop my entire life. I started super early and I remember dressing up as Eminem for my 4th birthday as he was my idol in my early years. It's also been my main genre of music and thus I got inspired to write & record my own shit.

Writing songs is such an easy way to get your feelings down on a page and allow burdens to get off your shoulders. I started writing like a year and half ago when everything just came on top of me, breakup, school stress shit like that. It was just such an easy way to escape and feel happy. Then especially when you get praise and perform songs you wrote, its a great feeling. I got way too many inspirations for me to count, people often say I sound like Rejjie Snow & Loyle Carner, who I definitely listen to a lot. I'm also a big fan of Madlib, especially his Quasimoto persona, his style is so creative and original that it encouraged me to progress my own music. Otherwise, I love Michael Jackson, his presence on stage and his talent is astonishing, Stevie Wonder too. My favourite rapper has changed over the years but its been Travis Scott since like 2015 when Rodeo dropped; he's not afraid to take risks in both music and life and again his performances are crazy.

Congrats on your new mixtape "Inside Out". From start to finish, how long did it take you to complete the mixtape and how did you decide what tracks made or didn't make the cut?

Thanks a lot man it was a long road. After I released my first EP, I was writing almost straight after it dropped, so like from September to now? Had some delays along the way but I'm grateful for all the people I worked with to help me pursue my dream. As for the other question, I needed some sort of attachment to each song to continue working on it and so that I can imagine others bumping it. I trashed like fuck, 3-4 songs? I wasn't feeling them for a number of reasons like lyrics or flow etc. You gotta be 100% with each song. 

Can we expect some visuals to come from the album?

Damn, I would love to, we'll see what happens.

The rap scene in London is really starting to gather recognition and respect in the United States. Do UK rap artists such as yourself seek recognition by music fans in the US or does it not really matter?

US is where Hip-Hop started, so we must not forget about the major influence US rappers had on us. I'm always trying to promote my shit overseas to get it heard, I also work with people in the US on beats and shit. Shout out zuzi & CTHGraphics they helped me a lot on the mixtape and they're based in the US.

With "Inside Out" in the can, do you plan to release any more projects in 2018? If so, do you have a date in mind?

Yeah I'm always working on shit, definitely have something out again this year. I find it hard to juggle everything but expect some more music! I'll never stop doing my shit and writing songs.

Who are some other UK rappers or singers you have on your radar to collaborate with?

I'm not gonna lie I like doing shit solo, but I always team up with my boy Sid Sasha & Billybee as well for some songs. I always work well with those two and they're both very close to me. So yeah, Imma just keep grinding and see what happens.

Stream/Download "Inside Out" on Spotify

Connect with Hazzardd: Facebook | Soundcloud | Twitter | Instagram

Interview: Ras Beats Discusses His Project "The High 5", His Go-To Beat Making Equipment and Much More

Our latest exclusive interview is with NYC-based artist and producer Ras Beats who recently released the track "What I'm Connected To" featuring Ralphiie Reese, off his upcoming project “The High 5”.  During this Q&A we ask Ras Beats about how he got his start producing, what his go-to production equipment is, who his favorite producers are and much more.

After this interview, be sure to follow Ras Beats on his social media streams and head over to Rasbeats.com for the latest news, free downloads, and to cop some exclusive merch from his store.  

Tell us about how you got started making beats. Do you remember your first instrumental? Did you sell it to an artist or stash it away?

I started like most people from my era. By listening to hip hop and studying the masters of the music, Marley Marl, 45 King, Premier, Pete Rock, Bomb Squad, Muggs. I was already DJ’ing with my older brother and we started looking for old records. Isaac Hayes, James Brown, War, all that good shit. Just trying to find samples and learn as much as possible about music and in particular old records. At first I emulated what I heard from hip hop production and worked on creating my own sound.

I don’t remember the first one but my early instrumentals were simple loops, wasn’t really ready to be sold or really made into songs at the time, just figuring out my craft. First song I made was off a single 2 bar Bob James loop, matter fact I think I still owe the studio for that session.

What software/equipment do you use for your production? What is it in particular that you prefer about this software/equipment that you work with?

Akai MPC 2500, Pro Tools. My set up at the crib is simple, I can get right to work when I get an idea ofrhear a record I wanna mess with. Easy to take those protools files right to the studio for the recording of the vocals, mixing and all that. Definitely a set up I’m comfortable with and do my thing with.

For new producers just getting started, what software/equipment would you recommend they invest in?

I love how you do things on the MPC, a lot of people love that Maschine, but for me you can’t beat an MPC. Whatever you can do good work with, don’t get too caught up with what machine you use, it’s about what you can do with it. As long as it doesn't restrict you from getting busy.

Describe your creative process for us when it comes to laying down a beat. When do you know that a beat you have been working on is ready for an artist to jump on?

Mmm, it’s different, sometimes it’s strictly from hearing a groove, a sound, a mood of a record. Other times I just wanna sit down and make music. I may with the groove, then add drums. Sometimes the drums are first. It really just depends on how that inspiration comes. It's some form of a zone, when you're in it you just go with it.

I know the beat is ready when it’s just missing that last thing, I always leave some room for the MC, the vocals are the last instrument on the track, the last layer.

It’s basically just a feel when you know it’s done as far as adding more layers or sounds. 

I grew up in North Carolina but always preferred East coast rap music and the soulful sample-based production that artists like Wu-Tang, Mobb Deep, Bootcamp Click, Jay-Z, State Property, Nas and early Kanye West utilized. Most people call those days (mid 90s to mid 2000s) the golden era of Rap. What are your thoughts about the state of rap music on the East coast now, especially with so many rappers from your region rapping over trap beats? 

The state of hip hop in general is a mixed bag for me right now. Plenty of really good fuckin music out there right now but most definitely some sub par stuff too.

NYC or the east coast doesn’t necessarily have a real strong definitive sound to my ears these days, I think it kinda forget it’s the Mecca of hip hop, that's it's where this all started from. A lot of people lost their way a little bit with the changing of the popular sound in hip hop but things do move in cycles. I think the east coast sound will be fine, you just have to stick to what you’re good at and appreciate the gifts you’re given.

Who is your favorite producer? Why?

I can’t pick just one, all time I would have to say Marley Marl, DJ Premier & Pete Rock. 

Of “current” producers Marco Polo, Nottz, Alchemist, my man Elemnt always keeps my inspired to get to work. Ice Rocks doin' his thing, Evidence, D.I.T.C. still gets busy.. I love beats so I appreciate a lot of people’s work.

Judging solely from a production standpoint, what are your top 3 rap albums of all time?

Man, that’s a tough question. I could probably sit with that question for a month and really come up with a lot of different answers. Right now, I would say, De La Soul 3 Feet High And Rising… for innovation, that album blew the doors completely open as far as what to sample and how to sample. De La & Prince Paul absolutely knocked it out the park on that album…Groundbreaking!

Pete Rock & C.L.Smooth - Mecca & The Soul Brother… incredible album, Pete Rock at his finest, incredible beats, the sequencing of the album, all the interlude beats that were crazy by themselves. Another album that’s one of the best of all time. 

Public Enemy - It Takes A Nation Of Millions To Hold Us Back….. I’m still trying to figure out how they made this album in 1987/88. Classic.

Marley Marl - In Control….. one of the greatest in his prime, the blue print for a producer making his own album.. Such an incredible album.. One of the best Juice Crew projects!

Honorably mention…all the Gang Starr albums, Tribe Called Quest first 3 in particular, Cypress Hills first, I could go on… so many great hip hop albums out there.

What can we expect from Ras Beats in 2018? Any new videos and projects on the way?

I put out the first song from my new project “The High 5” in January, 4 more songs to go, all coming in 2018! Also I did some work for Ralphiie Reese from Philly recently, some work with John Jiggs and other stuff being worked on right now. I plan on being busy in 2018. A lot more stuff I can't really announce right now.

What advice do you have for a producer who is trying to get more exposure for his beats?

I heard graphic artist Joe Buck say “If you don’t get work, make work”. If nobody is knocking at your door for you to work on their projects, create work yourself. Make your own songs, albums, mixtapes, put that out there and let people hear it. Once you paid your dues and gotten good though, make sure you’re ready cuz listeners don’t do any favors. That’s one of the best advice I have heard, don’t wait for anybody to give you an opportunity, make it happen for yourself.

If an artist wanted to reach out to you to buy a beat and/or collaborate with you, how would they get in contact with you?

Twitter, Instagram or directly at info@rasbeats.com

Connect with Ras Beats: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Soundcloud | Facebook | YouTube

World's Fair Announces Debut Album and Shares First Single "Elvis' Flowers (On My Grave)"

World's Fair are back to announce their debut album New Lows and share it's first single "Elvis' Flowers (on my grave)." The album, due this spring via Fool's Gold, finds the Queens-based rap collective growing significantly from their 2013 mixtape Bastards Of The Party. That growth is immediately apparent on "Elvis' Flowers (on my grave)," which effectively serves as the album's mission statement (as well as a nod to the late New York City club Elvis Guesthouse). 

It's accompanying visual, filmed entirely by the group's own Nasty Nigel and premiered by Hypebeast, captures a night out in New York City -- the ecstasy, paranoia and claustrophobia all in one. Speaking about the song and its accompanying visual, Nigel says, "The deeper DJ Thoth and I got into DJing at Elvis Guesthouse, the more we experimented with BPMs and tempos finding a middle ground to please both ourselves and the crowd. Lansky Jones, NOLIFE and myself flew over to Detroit to link up with Black Noi$e and work on this album. Naturally 'Elvis' Flowers' came from blending jungle and rap the same way we were experimenting behind the decks. The music video documents that year running around New York City and the watering hole that was Elvis Guesthouse."

Check out "Elvis' Flowers (on my grave)" now and see below for more about World's Fair and New Lows.

About World's Fair and New Lows:

In the era of the soloist, a genuine rap crew is the rarest of jewels. Most groups these days have less in common with a unified artistic collective like the Wu-Tang Clan than with purely opportunistic individuals. At their worst, you have a central hip-hop star padding the ranks with his lesser pals. At their best, you get World's Fair.

The Queens-birthed troupe of Remy Banks, Jeff Donna, Lansky Jones, Nasty Nigel, Prince SAMO, DJ THOTH, and Cody B. Ware signify both the diaspora and its most logical conclusion, a confluence of cultures that could only be found here not just in the greatest of cities, but in its greatest borough. With friendships and alliances forged in public school classrooms and on mass transit, the group boasts seemingly disparate heritages including Dominican, Filipino, Jamaican, Jewish, Haitian, and Puerto Rican, all magically aligned by a long-standing and shared love of hip-hop. This representation is further reflected in the neighborhoods they originate from, storied locales such as Corona, Forest Hills, Flushing, Jamaica, and Rego Park.

"That six degrees [of separation] was like two degrees for us," Jeff Donna succinctly summarizes. "We're the physical embodiment of Queens." 

These youthful connections coupled with a post-collegiate propensity towards attending the same parties on Manhattan's Lower East Side provided the necessary conditions to create World's Fair. Some members had already established themselves as solo acts earlier this decade, while others had formed smaller groups together, namely Children Of The Night. "Real naturally, as the friendships built, it was like, why don't you jump on this song," explains Remy Banks. 

Facing a lack of support for Queens artists in a scene dominated by Brooklyn events, they found it expedient and advantageous to team up. "It was strength in numbers because we felt like we were not getting the love we should be getting," says Cody B. Ware. "We were very polarizing."

Once touted, and lumped in with, the mediagenic millennial New New York rap movement alongside the likes of Action Bronson and Flatbush Zombies, World's Fair transcend trend. Neither boom bap revivalists nor trap opportunists, they draw instead from a pool of influences past and present that includes everything from Lost Boyz to dancehall to Depeche Mode to hardcore punk, and so on. Not surprising given their '80s baby pedigree, classic '90s New York hip-hop forms the foundation of the crew's communal core. Still, many of the members' individual musical touchpoints precede their given generation, playing a less overt though very tangible part of the World's Fair sound. The end result, while undeniably rap music, challenges people's expectations of the now expansive genre.

Those quick to declare New York rap either dead or done showcase an ignorance of what World's Fair has to offer. The imminent arrival of New Lows, the forward-thinking and deeply compelling full-length follow-up to 2013's Bastards Of The Party mixtape, ought to put an end to that fundamentally flawed narrative. With gripping production by Black Noi$e and NOLIFE, the album weds the sounds of South Jamaica with those of South London and South Detroit, resulting in a futuristic yet grounded mix of agile lyricism and bass scene bombast. Elements of juke and footwork as well as industrial and techno all factor into New Lows, which suits the Fool's Gold label aesthetic just fine. "We really got to say, all those drum kits on all those tunes, let's put that on rap records,"says Nasty Nigel. "It make perfect sense to have this record come out that does that."

From the woozy vibes of "WF001" and "Denny Davito" to the unabashed ruggedness of lead single "Elvis' Flowers (on my grave)" and "Win4," this is hip-hop at its most vibrant and liberated, as at home cruising through Queensbridge Houses as in the most progressive of underground nightclubs. A far cry from the stereotypes of what was once known as the New York Sound, the sonic uniqueness of New Lows is indeed deliberate and provocative, part of a lengthy process where the group set out to differentiate themselves from everything else out there--and succeeded.

While its contents exude Queens, with plenty of local references to catch, New Lows wasn't recorded within the city limits, but in a secret location about an hour or so upstate. "We went away to the woods," says Prince SAMO. "There was nothing but us." While not traditionally how World's Fair tend to operate, that week-and-a-half in essential isolation proved creatively fruitful, allowing for the members to play off each other's strengths and focus on their craft in an environment free from distraction. 

Egos weren't remotely a factor, with members opting in to given tracks without crowding anyone else out. If someone was feeling a particular cut, they wrote for it. If not, they tagged in another member that they felt would flourish over it. At any given time during their upstate stint, the collaborative energy was as high as it was democratic, yielding something greater than the typical bars-on-bars-on bars approach one expects from multi-rapper cuts. "We made a conscious effort to make an emotional core of the lyrics," explains Lansky Jones.

Additionally, the vitality of New Lows adds further promise to World's Fair's already infamous reputation as live performers, at Fool's Gold Day Off and elsewhere. Vigorous to the point of polarizing, high energy sets have been a trademark for the crew since their early days, ramping up in subsequent years as the crew's aggressive and entertaining tactics became clearly co-opted by countless other hip-hop artists. The anthemic, epic quality of these new tunes seem destined to shake the foundations of any venue that dares to book World's Fair in 2018.

Stream/Download "Elvis' Flowers (on my grave)"

Connect with World's Fair: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

The Skull Eclipses Releases Self-Titled Debut Album

The Skull Eclipses (the joint project of Austin producer Spencer Stephenson and Philadelphia emcee Raj Haldar) are releasing their eponymous debut album. The Skull Eclipses is out now, and is preceded by singles "Gone" ft. Open Mike Eagle and follows "Pillars" ft. Baba Maraire & Felicia Douglass. In addition to the album release, The Skull Eclipses are sharing a new lyric video. "Spacecrafts in Rajasthan" is accompanied by a video made of found black and white footage that originally made its debut via Brooklyn Vegan. Additionally, the group was profiled this week by XLR8R as part of their Get Familiar column.

Hear The Skull Eclipses above, and see below for tour routing, full details on the new album and more about The Skull Eclipses.

Tour Dates:
3/9 - Philadelphia, PA at Johnny Brenda's w/ Dälek, HPrizm (of Antipop Consortium)
3/29 - Bangalore, India at Humming Tree ^
3/30 - Mumbai, India at Social ^
3/31 - New Delhi, India at April Fools Festival ^
4/11 - Los Angeles, CA at Low End Theory
4/15 - Denton, TX - Acid Koolaid Festival *
4/24 - Brooklyn, NY - Union Pool w/ Dälek
4/28 - Austin, TX - Levitation Festival @ Empire Control Room *

^ Lushlife solo
* Botany solo

Stream/Download "The Skull Eclipses" Album: iTunes | Bandcamp | Spotify

Connect with The Skull Eclipses: Facebook | Website | Twitter | Instagram

Famous Dex's Debut Album "Dex Meets Dexter" Drops on March 23rd

Famous Dex has an amazing record, "Pick It Up Ft. A$AP Rocky" that is currently #60 on the Billboard Hot 100. Even Russell Westbrook was caught dancing to the track at practice recently. His debut album, "Dex Meets Dexter" is due out March 23rd.

Dexter's been mentioned in Complex, Highsnobiety, Rolling Stone, No Jumper, Montreality, Mass Appeal, and Hot New Hip-Hop! He even just wrapped a performance on MTV's Wild N Out! Be sure to follow Famous Dex on his social media streams below to stay up to date on all news related to the upcoming album.

Connect with Famous Dex: Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

Stream/Download Hazzardd's New Release "Inside Out" Right Now

London based teenage emo-rap artist Hazzardd just dropped his new project "Inside Out" and we have it ready for you to listen to right now. This release comprises of eight tracks, one of which being "Let Me Interlude", featuring Billybee, that was featured on DCWS a few weeks ago. Another track that has our full attention is the soulful "Every Day Sunday", featuring Flxtch!; this one is reminiscent of a mid-90s Common or ATCQ song in the best way possible. We wish there was more Hip-Hop music like this in wide circulation getting press. 

We highly recommend you stream Hazzardd's latest project ASAP and be sure to support him by purchasing it and following him on his social media streams. Also, share with your friends who love that real Hip-Hop. 

Connect with Hazzardd: Facebook

Review: Is "Black Panther: The Album" Just As Monumental As the Movie?

Marvel’s Black Panther has been the most hyped and successful film of 2018 thus far! With this much hype coming from the fans who couldn't wait to see how incredible the film is, it’s only right that a soundtrack that is just as awesome has been released alongside it. This is the intended result of "Black Panther: The Album". Just knowing that Kendrick Lamar is the main curator of the album inspired by the film is enough to make fans salivate. However, does the album effectively represent the film while still being a hot album?

Let’s be honest, do you really think that the album would be anything less than fire with Kendrick Lamar at the helm? If you do, then you’ll instantly change your mind after first two tracks! "Black Panther: The Album" starts off with a strong introduction that combines a simple yet soulful beat while Kendrick Lamar poetically sets the tone for the rest of the album. This is immediately followed by “All The Stars”, a catchy collaboration with new R&B sensation SZA that is reminiscent of some of Kanye West’s classics when it comes to the production and flow. From that point, the album becomes an intoxicating mixture of RnB hits and banging rap songs that all feature top notch production!

As far as who else is featured on the album, listeners will get to hear a lot of freshness from new blood on the album. New artists featured on the album include SZA, Zacari, Sob X RBE, and hot artists. Artists who frequently collaborate with Kendrick Lamar and other veterans, including 2 Chainz, Jay Rock and Ab-Soul, also make strong impressions with their features. 

The album perfectly mixes West Coast Hip-Hop and RnB sentiments with strong production and style that not only takes inspiration from, but also compliments the upcoming Black Panther film. The songs that take the most inspiration from the film as far as style and sound goes are “Redemption” by Zacari and Babes Wodumo, and “Seasons” by Mozzy, Sjava and Reason. Both tracks offer a smooth sound to the album, with the former being an jazzy, uptempo RnB smash that takes inspiration from African song and dance in its production. While the whole album is good, it’s these songs, along with a few others, that truly stand out. The album ends strongly with “Pray For Me” by The Weeknd and Kendrick Lamar, where Kendrick’s poetic energy combined with The Weeknd’s soulful voice perfectly ends a great album. 

In most cases, soundtracks are usually just decent pieces of work released to build hype for an upcoming film, but "Black Panther: The Album" exceeds expectations by not only be an exceptional body of work, but also being an excellent collection of original Hip Hop and RnB!

Score: 10 out of 10

Buy "Black Panther: The Album"

ToBy Unleashes Newest Mixtape "ToBySeason Vol. 1"

Miami rapper (now based in LA) ToBy has just released his newest mixtape, "ToBySeason Vol. 1". Entirely produced by Datakrash (aka Aleksander Vinter, formally SAVANT) in the short time ToBy has made Los Angeles home, "ToBySeason Vol. 1" is a hallmark of ToBy's musical influences; from satire to hip-hop, rap, and r&b, all the way to his electronic undertones when composing together relatable anthems.

The past week saw single premieres for "Do It" (Rapfest), and "Lost And Found" (New Noise Hip-Hop) and now the whole project is available on all platforms. Stream/Purchase below:

Spotify: http://spoti.fi/2Cee58w
Apple Music/iTunes: https://apple.co/2HJeMWX
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/officialtobymusic/sets/tobyseason-vol-i

ToBy says of the project: "Making 'ToBySeason Vol. I was such a unique experience for me because it was the first time I got to work with a producer as dedicated and tied to the project as Aleks. I had made music with my band and released stuff independently but that all felt more of a solo endeavor. This process saw me as head of all aspects of the creative process and really taught me what it meant to make a good compilation. It was the perfect time to do it too, having moved to LA indefinitely meant that I could really explore what and who 'ToBy' is. I think I did that with the versatility I achieved on this. The singing was stuff I’d always wanted to take further and the more commercial elements were fun tracks I always wanted to make. So all in all, if I were to wrap up the project into one word I’d call it 'eager'. My hunger to get better at what I do every day is what gets me out of bed in the morning and 'ToBySeason Vol. I' is a concrete example of that."

Connect with ToBy: Twitter | Instagram

Interview: Korean Female Rapper ARTLOVER Discusses Her New Single "Want U Back" and Her Personal Style

ARTLOVER is a stylish and talented South Korean native and London based rapper whose new single "Want U Back" is one of our current favorites in the DCWS office; the single will be available on all digital retailers March 2nd. We connected with ARTLOVER for this exclusive interview to find out how she got her start as an artist, the motivation behind the "Want U Back" song, her dream collaboration and much more. 

After reading our Q&A with ARTLOVER, be sure to mark your calendars for March 2nd, so you will be ready to download "Want U Back" on your favorite music streaming service. Also, follow her on her social media streams so you can stay up to date on all things "ARTLOVER".

Tell us about how you got your start as a rap artist and who are some rappers or singers who have had a strong influence on your music?

I remember I listened a lot of Eminem and 50 cents songs when I was teenager. 

I started singing first and rapping later. I enjoy both but I realized that rapping feels more natural to me than singing. Perhaps because, I enjoyed Korean traditional music as a child and that kind of music is very much based on rhythm. 

Describe your creative process when it comes to writing lyrics and what do you look for in the instrumentals that you decide to write to?

When I write music, I always consider the listeners point of view.  I want them to vision something new in their heads when they hear it, and feel emotions. When it comes to instrumentation I leave that to the producer but always give my opinion. 

Congrats on your new single "Want U Back". What motivated you to write this song and can we expect a visual for it to follow?

Thank you! The song is retro style with an 80’s vibe. I love that era, I think it was a fabulous time for youth culture. 

The song is about missing passion that has come and gone, the kind that is so strong that you only feel it once in your life.

Break down your name for us. What does "ARTLOVER" mean?

For me music is a form of art that represents culture and society. Being an ARTLOVER sums me up pretty well.  

If you had to describe yourself as an artist to a stranger in three words, which ones would you select?

Love, nostalgic and wild.

If you had the opportunity to collaborate with any artist (dead or alive) on a song, who would you pick?

G-Dragon.

How would you describe your personal style and why is important for you to not look like every other artist out today in terms of what they wear?

I really love vintage and antiques. My outfits are from all different eras and has a certain charm which sometimes is difficult to find in modern pieces. I guess I just find it very boring to be part of the pack. 

As an artist its important to stand out and push boundaries forward. To dare to challenge conventions is a vital part in bringing pop culture forward.

Connect with ARTLOVER: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

Interview: LA Based Singer-Songwriter and Producer JOYN

We connected with our next interviewee, JOYN, after we showcased his DOPE new single "Sinister", which features Jordn. JOYN is definitely an artist on the rise so we decided to get ahead of the bandwagon and interview him before he's a household name in the music industry on the mic and behind the boards. 

Enjoy our exclusive Q&A with this talented singer-songwriter and producer and be sure to stream "Sinister", as well as follow JOYN on his social media streams. 

Tell us about how you got your start as a singer-songwriter and producer. Do you remember the first song you wrote or produced? If so, describe them for us.

Well I guess singing came first. I started singing in choir in elementary school. I picked up the guitar when I was nine and that pretty much took over for the next decade or so. I played in rock bands throughout high school as just a guitarist and never really had aspirations to sing. I started producing a couple years ago as a side hobby at first then one day just decided to try my voice on top of one of my crappy little beats. I just sort of took it ran with it. Now I’m in the process of rediscovering my voice! The first song I ever wrote was in 5th grade. It was called “Gasoline” and I played it at my school’s talent show. It was awful by the way.

Describe your creative process when it comes to writing lyrics and producing instrumentals. How do you start creating and when do you know that you are done?

It’s anything and everything all at once. I don’t usually write in the typical acoustic guitar “singer-songwriter” sort of way. I usually build a beat first just so I can catch a vibe. The instrumental usually tells me where to go lyrically. I’ll scat sing nonsense over the beat until I find a melody I can settle on. The lyrics tend to write themselves in my head over a period of a couple weeks. They come to me at the most inconvenient times. Usually when I'm at work or doing something way more important. I actually never really write them down until the final draft is recorded. If the production sounds good while I’m driving by myself late at night and the lyrics look elegant on paper it’s safe to say the song is finished. 

You mention that Jane's Addiction, Destiny's Child, Black Sabbath, The XX, and 6lack are some of your musical influences. These artists span a wide array on genres; how do you as a creative pull from them to develop your own sound?

Like I mentioned I grew up playing in rock bands so most of my childhood heroes were pretty heavy guitar groups. In my dream world I’d be able to wail like Layne Staley or Chris Cornell but my voice just isn’t built for that. When I started singing again is when I went back and rediscovered all the RnB music my mom and aunt weaned me on growing up. 6lack’s debut album single handedly got me through one of the toughest periods of my life last year. Not only was it thematically powerful but hearing how he expressed his voice showed me you didn’t have to be vocally extravagant to still connect with people. In fact I think those “vocal acrobatics” as I like to call them really distract from the song most of the time. I saw The XX at Bonnaroo last year and it definitely changed the way I approached my instrument. I think Romy Croft is genius and a bad ass. My sound is an amalgamation of all those influences. Trends scare the hell out of me and it’s pretty spooky to me when I see everyone so anxious to fall in line for some movement like a bunch of sheep. I just try my best to create something I haven’t heard before while still delivering something culturally relevant. 

Congrats on your new single "Sinister"; it's a great track. How did you and Jordn connect to create it? Is it self-produced?

Jordn is the homie! We actually went to college together but I didn’t really meet him until accident when he came over to my best friend/photographer’s house one day. We blew some trees and vibed. We ended up working at the same restaurant one summer and he needed a guitar player for a show and got me on my first stage in Nashville which is where I was living at the time. He’s a sharp minded dude and by far my favorite rapper among my peers so I hit him up for the feature. To be real with you I was reluctant to put the track out cause its so grotesquely honest in a way. But I know I’m making my best and most honest shit when I get nervous about people hearing it. I started the production off myself and then sent it to my producer Ghost and he turned it into the sonic adventure it is now. I’ve actually known Ghost since high school. I'm privileged to work with him. Surrounding myself with peers like him and Jordn has definitely pushed me to elevate my artistry. 

What's next after the "Sinister" single? Will there be a visual next and/or an EP or album coming soon?

Definitely. I have an EP coming out hopefully around my birthday in May. Its inspired by my adolescence growing up in LA. Then I’ll be releasing my debut full length this fall which Sinister will likely be on as the LP has a darker vibe. It’ll tackle a lot of stories and relationships from my life over the last couple years. I’m also working on a screenplay for a short film that will hopefully accompany the LP. My life has been a turbulent rollercoaster ride and learning lesson over the last year and I’m happy to say it’s inspired some pretty intense music. 

Connect with JOYN: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook