2011 — JusKev

2011

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2011

Musiq ..... : As The Beat Cycles On...

Another hot set of remixes and instrumentals from Sam Champ. I know you recall that last joint I put you onto. What was interesting was I discovered I had some of these remixes and had no idea who was creatin' em. Always great to put a name & story to great production. FEELIN IT!

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"One Time" feat. The Roots & Phonte >> Phontigallo on a track of The Roots "Undun" album? What more can you ask for in great hip hop music?! Can't wait to go on head and cop this joint.....FEELIN IT!!

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"Halftime" feat. Amy Winehouse >> From the late GREAT young and beautifully talented Ms Winehouse. Such great music she has always created. If you all are not familiar with work earlier than her acclaimed album, Back to Black, def go check out, Frank....FEELIN IT!

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"You Already Know" feat. BLACK STAR >> Guess Who's Baaaack?!!! Yup with this joint produced by Oh No. So glad they are definitely coming back. We need it!

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"If U Down" feat. yU >> this joint goes hard with good positive message. DC gotta another Diamond In the Ruff here. Check out his last LP, Before Taxes. FEELIN IT!

Common - "Celebrate" by ThinkCommon
Def a 2012 Summer classic song, haha. FEELIN IT!

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"Prelude To A Murder" feat. Add-2 >> Been following this cat for a few years. He def likes using those horns and and knows how to use them properly as his nice signature piece to a lot of his production. FEELIN IT!

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"No Place Like Home" feat. Phil Ade >> Phil Ade's production crew for sure knows how to pick great samples. I am still high off the fact he used my favorite Anita Baker song in one of his latest leaks. FEELIN IT!

Thundercat - Daylight by The Line Of Best Fit
This is off the album "The Golden Age of Apocalypse" by Thundercat. Def one of my top albums of the year! This is from a well known Bass player by the name of Stephen "Thundercat" Bruner. Infused with jazz, rock, electronic and r&b swing this album is just one you just let play all the way through and zone out. FEELIN IT!

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"The Clean Hand" feat. Blu >> Straight good hip hop from great lyricist from the West Coast, but another great known surprise is the track is produced by the honorable, PETE ROCK! Hear that ever so familiar snare? FEELIN IT!

Watch on YouTube

"Alive" feat. Art of Fresh >> If yall haven't heard about Art of Fresh let me put you on! The dynamic Canadian duo of Slakah The Beatchild and D.O. This is off their latest FreeP "When the Night Comes In." Slakah The Beatchild has been on my top producers list for the past few years. I have purchased and copped every production piece for anything he touches and have NOT been dissapointed yet; Art of Fresh included. FEELIN IT!!!
This is a list of all his productions: http://beatchild.wordpress.com/music/. Believe me when I say you can't go wrong with any of this music. "I PROMISE YOU BOO BOO" (Kevin Hart voice, haha)

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Old School for the Moment:

Watch on YouTube

Can you hear Earth Wind & Fire all over this? Well if you can, its because it this whole album was produced by none other than EWF after Ms. Williams left the label with El Toro Negro (this is the alias for a living legend, thats all the hint you get, lol).

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2011

Kevin Clash holding his 2009 Day-Time Emmy Award with his created character of the Muppets, the infamous, ELMO

In lue of the current 'Muppet' movie, out in theaters now, I would like to inform of you of the man behind the of the most lovable puppets of all-time (arguably). Yes, I know most of y'all probably know this lil' tid-bit but you'd be surprise how many do not know. Kevin Clash, a native of Baltimore County, Maryland (DMV area stand up!), has won 9, I REPEAT 9, Day Time Emmy awards for his personally created character, Elmo.

I know some of y'all remember the "Tickle Me Elmo" craze way back when it started in 1996; doesn't seem so long ago does it? I had a hard time find total number sales but I know for fact since then "Tickle Me Elmo," "T.M.X.", & "Elmo Live!" have sold MILLIONS but I don't know if Mr. Clash receives royalties nor am I 100% sure he has the copyrights to the character Elmo (but my intuition is telling me he definitely does), anyway, i'll let you "do the dishes" on that one.....

-juskev

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2011


Kool & The Gang's "Love & Understanding"

I have been assisting local underground DC DJ legend, DJ RBI, in mentoring kids on hip-hop and the art of DJing at the non-profit, Words, Beat & Life. I randomly select an album from my collection and then try to tie it in with the WBL's theme for the current session. The theme for this current session is Sun Tzu's "Art of War". Definitely a good way to teach the youth about how to handle both external and internal conflicts with themselves and society.

Just wanted to share little bit of the many things I get myself involved with, especially when it comes to music.

And in lue of this particular album, I will leave you with this:

With their Universal Sound, people Come Together with Love & Understanding during Summer Madness to share each other’s Cosmic Energy encouraging folks to Do It Right Now while giving sweet harmonies of music, Sugar, to energize people who want to get down on the Hollywood Swinging.

-JusKev

MONDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2011

Musiq Mondays: Back to the Feature

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"You got the love" feat. Gretchen Parlato (Sam Champ Remix) >> project produced by a Brooklyn native by the name of DJ Center. Def feeling this and his project from which this song comes from too...FEELIN IT!

Trouble by josejamesworldwide
"Trouble" feat. Jose James >> Jose James has made a good name for himself in the soul arena. good music here.

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"Blame Yourself" feat. XV, GLC, Emilio Rojas, & Cassey Veggies >> feeling this lil' joint. Just good straight hip hop. FEELIN IT.

The Roots "Make My" featuring Big K.R.I.T. by okayplayer
"Make My" feat. Big K.R.I.T. & The Roots >> Def good ish!! What more can ya ask for, KRIT and The Roots on the same track?? Classic material, mos def. FEELIN IT

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"College Girl" feat. Phil Ade >> first off I love this joint because the sample is using one of my favorite R&B artist of all-time and my favorite song of hers, Auntie Anita otherwise known to the rest of the world as Anita Baker.....FEELIN IT!!!

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"Woo" feat. Anthony Hamilton >> this joint was produced by, ready?.....BABYFACE. I know right, I am asking the same thing, where he been since the 90s?? Def had to post that just to share that his working in the studio with Mr. Hamilton. Should be an interesting collabo.

Watch on YouTube

"The Blessing" feat. SouL >> This is off of, The Foreign Exchange's co-founder, Nicolay's "The Dutch Master Vol.1" mixtape. I decided to go into my repertoire and just pull out some music i always enjoy listening to. In my opinion, just about all the music that comes out of The FE camp is great, quality music and Nicolay is ill on the remixes.

Watch on YouTube

"Love Joint revisited" feat. Little Brother >> A very dear friend of mines posted some music on her fb page and so i was inspired to post an LB song...so to all my hardcore LB fans this "old but goodie" is simply FOR YOU.

Watch on YouTube

"In the Ruff" feat. Diamond District >> DC's own is on it! Some good hip hop this past few years really been hitting the scene. Their album, In the Ruff, been on heavy rotation on my iPod for a good few months too. Album is a GREAT buy....FEELIN IT.

From the great city of Richmond, VA, my hometown, producer Ohbliv puts out his beat tape. I definitely went on ahead and supported the homie. This joint is just my type of flavor, so I wanted to share it in hope you might support it too. FEELIN IT.

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Old School For the Moment:

Watch on YouTube

And the good hip hop that used it...love this joint!:

Watch on YouTube

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2011

Funny Friday: Raphael Dela Ghetto

Watch on YouTube

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upniIg29Tcc
couldn't post the full poem so the link is above

So I just happen to see this ad for an up and coming reggaeton artist by the name of Raphael Dela Ghetto and IMMEDIATELY I thought of one of my favorite shows of all-time, Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, with one of my favorite episodes.

Here is the link to the actual "Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" inspired artist as well --> http://www.2dopeboyz.com/2011/10/24/albe-back-raphael-dela-ghetto-album/

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2011

Looking through the Opaque?

In the Examiner, one the free local DC metro area newspapers, I found this picture of Attorney General, Eric Holder and President Obama.

The title of the picture reads " A secret meeting on transparency in government was held by the Office of Information Policy in the Justice Department..."

Any time I've picked up the Examiner, I could hardly picked find anything positive on President Obama and his administration. So finding the pick of irony the paper found was no surprise but I found it funny nonetheless and wanted to share

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2011

Funny Friday: Pass the Joint in the Collection Plate....

Watch on YouTube

I know it's been a minute since I have posted anything but I have been quite busy these past couple months and stayin busy....hope this give you all a few chuckles

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2011

9th Wonder/Phonte Album Listening party!

Hosted by your truly, DJ LookUp

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 31, 2011

Given up the Green, For the Community

Larry Powell, a Fresno California school superintendent gives up his $230,000+ salary and for the same job is now earning $31,000. Mr. Powell will be done with his term in 2015 and is also retired. He is taking the pay cut because he knows budget cuts towards education will be fierce in California; chippintg to do his part to save education. I think this is EXTREMELY commendable and deserves all the praise in the world.

But I don't know what his current living situation his allowing him to do such a noble

Is he in a position where he is able to take that kinda pay cut and be just fine as opposed to others who can barely survive with that type of salary? Probably so.

I just don't want folk to not forget that folk who are truly struggling. So at the same time, I would like to share the positives in the world, as I usually attempt to do, but also raise the issue of education and lack there of, within impoverish communities and the teachers that are truly unpaid.

A respectful bow to you Mr. Powell BUT a salute to all the teachers, especially unpaid, out there in the world....

~juskev

MONDAY, AUGUST 29, 2011

Musiq Monday: Put this in ya Auto's Tune.

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"Black Thought Stir It Up Remix" >> this is simply for me and my true ATCQ fans out there. I recently saw the Beats, Rhymes and Life documentary and it was GRRREAT!

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"Got Damn" feat. Add-2 >> the Chi-town native going in on this joint. Been feelin Add-2's production and creativity for a good min. He keeps bring that fire. His upcoming project, Save.Our.Soul, should be a another good listen. FEELIN IT!

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"Same Folks" feat. Evidence & Fashawn >> a good hiphop head-nodda for ya.

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"Only want to give to you" feat. Elle Varner & J. Cole >> I like Miss Varner's voice; gives me feelings of those like Chrisette Michelle, Corrine Bailey Rae and the late Miss Amy Winehouse. Don't know too much about her music but she comes from a well off background of sound writers and music enthusiast. Along with one of NC's finest blessin the track, def makes it a nice lil joint. FEELIN IT.

Trackademicks presents Halfway feat. Phonte & Carlitta Durand by The Honor Roll
"Halfway" feat. Trackademics, Phonte & Carlitta Durand >> this joint is pretty smooth. get ya grown and sexy on! FEELIN IT.

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"Hip Hop & Love" feat. Tabi Bonney & Murs It was rumored that 9th wonder and Murs were working on there last album together...hmmm we'll see. I like this joint though. Real simple.

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"Times Change" produced by K-Def >> no lyrics to this just the music. I was really feeling how the producer shows the structure changes with chords and horns but notice, the snare always remained... FEELIN IT.

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"I Want You" feat. Cee-Lo & Tawiah >> Cee-Lo always sounds like he has so much fun in making his music...you can feel the joy no matter what he is talkin bout.

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"Thinking of You" feat. Frank Ocean >> yeah this cat has been out and doing his thang for a looooong min and has people's radar for a minute. Extremely talent song writer and producer. Bring some different feel to music on the r&b side of things I am still jammin to his mixtape, nostalgia/ultra. He also got a cut on Yeezie and Jay's "Watch The Throne" album.

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"Not Here Anymore" feat. Phontigallo & elZhi >> yessir! straight fiya!!....can't wait til him and 9th's album solo albums drop on September 27.

Watch on YouTube

"The Words" feat. Emanon (Aloe Blacc & DJ Exile) >> I def slept on this from way back in 2005. This is off their 2005 mixtape, The Waiting Room, ...and this joint is ill! My type of vibe...FEELIN IT!

Kendrick Lamar - Hol' Up #Section80 by TopDawgENT
"Hol' Up" feat. Kendrick Lamar >> my favorite cut fresh off the his Section 80 LP. good hip hop.

Watch on YouTube

"Been in Love" feat. Eric Roberson & Phontigallo >> this is off of Mr. Blue Erro Soul's debut album "Left" from 2007. I am a HUGE fan of Roberson. He runs EVERYTHING himself, own label, own production, own manager and he quite successful with building his fan base. I'm also jammin to his last album "Music Fan First" from summer of 2009. Def recommend him to any soul lovers....FEELIN IT.

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"In the 336" feat. Phontigallo, Charlie Smarts & King Mez >> this is a hot lil' track. Especially, since Phonte is on the mic. The other cats spittin'some fiya on the mic are also outta NC...FEELIN IT!

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"High School Love" feat. Anthony Hamilton >> I like this tune from Mr. Hamilton. Nice and smooth.

aiight, that's enough for now, I plan puttin yall onto some more artist from my music collection past that I am pretty sure you have not heard of and it's GREAT music.

Old School for the moment
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Watch on YouTube

THURSDAY, AUGUST 18, 2011

People still care...

I'm always in search for some positive in the world and there is plenty, it's just no one really reports on it (as most of us know)...

Every now and then, I purchase a newspaper from, Street Sense; a local newspaper in DC, run by the Homeless. That is where I found the picture of this street sign from Toronto Seeing folks who are less fortunate still strive to make a living and making efforts to get back on their feet shows great determination. Some truly are not able to take care of themselves but MANY are not looking for hand outs, just some assistance to start over again...

SORT OF hits close to home for me...

Street Sense >> http://www.streetsense.org

-juskev

MONDAY, AUGUST 8, 2011

Musiq Monday: Stock Market Crash? Get Ya Loose Change & Invest in Gold.

Sooo the stock market crashes well, how bout some Loose Change and some Yellow Gold to make ya feel better? haha. This is another hometown 804 special edition of my blog. I will be getting back to some more music in a few weeks as I am still catching up on some things after being away on vacation.

ANYWAY, to the music....

First Up:

The homies Nickelus F and producer Ohbliv came wit on the "Yellow Gold" mixtape at the beginning of this year. I think the production on this is GREAT, especially with creative uses of the samples. Nickelus F's lyricism on this is def at his best with joint. That feel good, chill, hardcore kinda hip hop we all love and sorta miss from the 90's. This is proof we are trying to keep it going, straight outta my hometown "hood." I don't have a particular favorite, which is a good thing because I let the joint play and rock wit it. FEELIN IT.

Next:

My good homies, the brother duo, Mike Millions and Name Brand along with another ill lyricist, A Plus, on the "Loose Change" mixtape. All I got to say if y'all knew what I knew about these brothas from way back when, you'd be hella proud of 'em like me, too! Always impressed by how Mike and Name Brand seem to be raising the bar, being better than themselves with each move, at the same pace with each and every piece. On the real, with these production pieces, my homie Name Brand is def one of my favorite local producers of the DMV (and yeah I am a bit bias about it, and WHAT?!). Again this is another feel good, raw Richmond, hip hop joint. FEELIN IT.

SATURDAY, JULY 30, 2011

Iceberg finds New Found Land.

Photo by Gene Patey

This picture takes place up north to our Canadian neighbors in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. If you know science and the history of our planet then you know another possible ice age is inevitable but us humans pretty much just sped up the process of the cycle...this is one of the many living proving examples of that.

Thought it was interesting enough to post...

TUESDAY, JULY 12, 2011

Musiq Monday: Stop Frontin. Just B (Be), Boy.

"Back for More" feat. Ayah >> Mad excited about this album produced by the Legendary and my number 1 favorite DJ, Jazzy Jeff. They make a great team! FEELIN IT.

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"What it is"(Apollo Brown remix) feat. Trek Life >> I have like what I have heard in production from Apollo Brown in the recent years. Straight hip hop here.

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"Lucky" feat. Blu >> this joint is just ill for the beat itself; Blu being on the track is def a bonus. FEELIN IT.

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"Mario Kart" feat. Theo Martins >> I am personally a huge fan of young Theo. Most of all his music is of his own production and writing and recording. Been rockin to him for about 5 years now....FEELIN IT.

Came across this smooth cat looking a post on a friend's Facebook wall. S/O to Dre' of on.us.tees of the Do Better Movement. This is definitely a smooth soulful artist and looks to have been doin his thang for a good minute. Lovin his sound and he did a joint off J Dilla's "Donuts"! Most of yall know by now, I am a huge Dilla fan. I showed the brotha some love and copped the album, I truly think you will enjoy it....FEELIN IT!

"Make it Last" feat. Ayah >> aiight yall it's here! The DJ Jazzy Jeff callabo with Toronto's soulstress Ayah! I don't have a link but will update this joint with a link soon....
Update: here is the link to the "Back For More" mixtape!

Old School for the Moment:
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Watch on YouTube

MONDAY, JUNE 27, 2011

Musiq Monday: On my iPod, iSing

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"Notorious" feat. Ayah >> I been feelin' a lot of music coming from Legendary DJ Jazzy Jeff's protege....love her voice and flow....FEELIN IT.

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"Summer Madness" feat. Common >> hot off the press from production of infamous producer No I.D. off the EP, No I.D. presents Cocaine 80s...I am def gonna be checking this joint out soon....FEELIN IT.

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"Family First" feat. MacMiller & Talib Kweli >> smooth cut from the Wiz Kalifa protege and Kweli. I am just now getting into Mr. Miller's music after recently seeing him on the "Single Ladies" TV show on VH1, and naw, I am no regular on watching that joint even though Stacey Dash remains elegantly sexy as she never ages, lol.....FEELIN IT

THURZ - Prayer by #92CREW
"Prayer" feat. Thurz >> I'm always down for good beats and uplifting messages, though I find it interesting, that they are cursin' and what not talkin' bout prayer, lol...don't think this is "traditional" gospel as the track title may fool you....FEELIN IT!

Kendrick Lamar - Hol' Up #Section80 by TopDawgENT
"Hol Up" feat. Kendrick Lamar >> Raw. Smooth. Chill. Hip Hop. Nough Said. Mr. Lamar continuing to do his thang. Couldn't find a download for this one. His latest LP, Section 80, coming July 2nd....FEELIN IT!

Prophet (Better Watch It) by Rizzle Kicks
"Prophet (Better Watch It)" feat. RizzleKicks >> Ello lads. This rather raunchy tune is from the great imperial country of the U.K. (in my best english accent lol). This is just a tad bit out of the usual sounds of things that I post but I still think it is good music and been feelin this song for a min....FEELIN IT.

The Stuyvesants - “Stoops Parks & Rooftops” by Algorythm
"Stoop Parks and Rooftops" feat. The Stuyvesants >> I haven't much from these cats since I last downloaded there previous joint, Brooklyn's Finest. They make some pretty smooth tracks if ya ask me. Brooklyn stand up!

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Old School for the Moment:

Watch on YouTube

I recently found this album while doing the $1 bin vinyl shopping (my vinyl heads now bout that)....definitely one of my favorite albums to play on my record player!

MONDAY, JUNE 20, 2011

Music Monday: Listen to the Summer Breeze

Jamiroquai - "Smile" by Jamiroquai1
"Smile" feat. Jamiroquai >> Jamiroquai is one of my favorite groups from across the way and just in time for the Summer and my annual European trip. Lovin this joint...FEELIN IT!

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"Mama's Boyfriend" feat. Kanyeeezie >> I am not the biggest fan of this song but i thought it was entertaining and I don't ever get tired of Kanye's sampling.

*NEW!!* "Top Five" - Rapsody ft. King Mez & Laws (prod. by Amp) by JamlaArmy
"Top Five" feat. Rapsody, Kin Mex & Laws >> just wanted to give ya some raw hip hop from the B-Girl Rapsody and crew. DEF lovin Rapsody in the game right now....Female MCs stand up!!...FEELIN IT.

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"All The Kisses" feat. The Foreign Exchange and Amber & Paris Strother >> loving this joint. I am huge fan of both The Foreign Exchange and King, the group the Amber and Paris are apart of. What a great callabo!....FEELIN IT!!!

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"Brilliant" feat. Truck North and The 3rd >> straight hip hop.

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"Summer in America" feat. Stalley & Rashad >> Stalley continues to come with that "Intelligent Trunk Music" haha.....FEELIN IT!

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Old School for the Moment:
Weldon Irvine's "Morning Sunrise"

Watch on YouTube

MONDAY, JUNE 13, 2011

Musiq Monday: "Just Let Your Souuuuuul Gloooooow"

"Detroit state of mind pt II" feat. elZhi >> elZhi is always bring that raw head bangin good hip hop. FEELLIN IT!
Bonus: If you don't have his ode to Illmatic, Elmatic, you TRIPPIN. A Classic mixtape that Nas was be proud of. Listening to this joint is now part of my weekday morning routine.

"See it to Believe it" feat. J. Cole >> fiya as usual. nuff said. hip hop at its best. Can't wait for the his album in the summer! FEELIN IT!

Watch on YouTube

"Can't Deny" feat. Illvibe Collective, Ishe & Dave Ghetto >> smooth joint from a group reppin' Philly very well....FEELIN IT!

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"Return of Simba" feat. J.Cole >> Blllladat! Yall already know Cole gone bring it as always. FEELIN IT!!!

Watch on YouTube

"Hiii Power" feat. Kendrick Lamar >> joint produced by RocNation's own J.Cole, Bllllldat! This is just some straight Hip Hop for ya. The actual video is pretty good too, check it out....FEELIN IT!

From the homie Oddisee off his current album, Odd Seasons. I havent given a listen yet but he always produced straight tracks....FEELLIN IT!

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"Analogue Monsta Mix" by Tokimonsta >> I just thought this was an ill mix so I had to post. It's a little long, but pretty good and well worth a listen. Don't know anything about this cat honestly, just....FEELIN IT!

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"A Long Time" feat. Mayer Hawthorne >> Mr. Hawthorne coming with the smooth tunes. His mixtape, The Covers, was excellent. I know he has got some treats on his upcoming LP, A Long Time.....FEELIN IT!!!

Chevys & Space Ships by Stalley330
"Chevy & Space Ships" feat. Stalley >> Personally think the mixing and production on this is pretty sick. Stalley bringin' it as usual...FEELIN IT.

SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2011

Hometown highlights: Double the Value

Photo by LINDY KEAST RODMAN of TIMES-DISPATCH in Richmond, VA

While doing my usual cruising through the hometown newspaper website, http://www.timesdispatch.com, I came across a story on two high school students from Richmond, VA out of Armstrong High School; a set of identical twins that were co-valedictorians. Both have full scholarships to North Carolina A&T State University. Congratulations ladies!!

I wanted to share this story to shed light on the youth, especially of color, for encouragement to others that you can do it.

In the words of my people over at On.Us.Tees, they are definitely "Doin' It Right."

Read more here...

MONDAY, MAY 2, 2011

Musiq Monday: Yo E, Q the Hi and the Low

"Why Don't We" feat. Kaya >> off her FreEP, Imperfections. Excellent work I must just from my first listen, I was impressed. I see you, Kaya! FEELIN IT!

"Yes" feat. Musiq Soulchild >> this is the Musiq that I am definitely used to hearing. I am a HUGE fan but the last album, Radio, just didn't do it for me thought I appreciate he was trying something a lil' different.....FEELIN IT!

Watch on YouTube

"Cold Hearted" feat. Blu & Exile >> this is from one of my top 10 all time classic slept on album, Below The Heavens. Some of you may already know about this joint and if so, good for you!! Such INCREDIBLE production and lyricism on this album. I definitely can't rave about it enough...FEELIN IT!
Here a bonus from the same album as well:

Watch on YouTube

"Lead the Way" feat. Szjerdene >> smooth, soulful, relaxing...FEELIN IT!

"I Had to Go Away" feat. Young Gliss & Dice Raw >> good beats, good rhymes...what more do you want?

"This Is Your Life" feat. MED & Blu >> fresh track produced by Exile (still think Below The Heavens is an all time classic). FEELIN IT!

"Go" feat. Santa Gold & Karen O >> at first I was not feelin' Santa a few years back when she came out but after listening to a mixtape of her's, I jumped on the bandwagon and apparently so did Jay Z because she is signed with RocNation...word...FEELIN IT.

Jill Scott - So In Love by missjillscott
Jill bringing back again! This is apparently rumored to be off her highly anticipating upcoming album.

Animal Farm ft. Talib Kweli "Test of Time" by AnimalFarm
>> Nice lil's soulful joint from Talib and Portland's Animal Farm.

Watch on YouTube

"Down" feat. Slakah the Beatchild >> Lovin the nod-ya-head soulfulness of this brotha. Slakah is definitely one of my favorite soul artists making a great name for himself for the last several years. Hails from Canada. This song is off his album, Something Forever, not currently sold in the U.S. His first EP, Soul Movement Vol. 1 is still in heavy rotation on the ipod. FEELIN IT!

Watch on YouTube

"Human Nature" feat. Chris Young the Rapper & Nikko Gray >> definitely love this joint. I'm sure you all recognize the sample....FEELIN IT!

Watch on YouTube

"Return of the Mack" feat. Zo! and Phontigallo >> Last of the recent music post, I'll leave you with there extremely comedic but yet still soulfully smooth rendition of Mark Morrison's infamous single. If ya don't haveZo! & Tigallo Love the 80's apparently you can't go get that cause it is nowhere to download it or purchase not sure what happened but i def got my copy when it was release. Get at me if you really want it. I might be nice. FEELIN IT!
Bonus:

Watch on YouTube

old school song of the moment:

Watch on YouTube

FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2011

Funny Friday: The Flower Girl Knows...

TUESDAY, APRIL 26, 2011

Lil' DeMarcus, Yo Name is Toby!

Reportedly, a fourth grader teach of Norfolk city public school in Virginia implemented a mock slave auction. She separated the children by race; white, black and latino.

Yes, yes, I know, how can these 10 year old kids understand enslavement and its extremely dramatic effects on the human psyche and destruction of a culture of people? Shameful we should show kids the reality of the history of our nation at such an early age, right?

Well this teacher is not the only one to have gotten this bright idea. An elementary school teacher in Ohio also felt this was a great idea.

In this day and age, children at that age are comprehending much faster than my generation (80's babies) could even imagine and much much faster (no offense) than generations before that. But that is because of the world we live in, things can become obsolete with the blink of an eye.

So is this truly appropriate? At what degree of detail do we show our children these realities, if we are to give them a kick of reality in history?

It seems with this generation of adolescent, we are ready to give insert into their minds the realities of sexual conduct but yet don't believe their minds can handle understanding discrimination at the age of 12? I remember my first encounter of being discriminated against was when I was 10, being called a "Nigger." I am still not saying what this 4th grade teacher did was right OR completely wrong. But what if she did not separate the children by race at all and simply did a mock slave auction where everyone's ethnicity/race was involved? Isn't it OK wanting the kids to have a foundation of compassion towards a culture that almost completely stripped and destroyed?

I know many of you still say that an activity like this does not belong in the classrooms but I think this was a good concept with HORRIBLE execution.

I wanted to make this a thoroughly researched topic but instead I'd rather just spark interest of others reading for their own purpose of researching if they want to. Simple as that. Now, I will leave you to "Do the Dishes..."

~juskev

MONDAY, APRIL 11, 2011

Music Monday: 804 Special Edition ~ What's the 411?

Puttin' my high school and city on the map with some truly great local talent to whom are some good associates of mine growing up in high school. And let me tell first how PROUD I AM OF THEM AND MY HOMETOWN!!! SUPER HYPE!

First up:

The Bass Brothers, Michael Millions and his brother and producer NameBrand hit VA's Cap City and the global music scene with their sophomore mixtape, The Color Purple. I must say, if you are from anywhere around the 804 then you already know the buzz around this joint. My favorite joints are "No Place Like Home" (probably cause they talking where i ~~live~~ grew up and hung around) and "2AM"... GOOD MUSIC...GO GET THAT!

Second up:

My boy Turi, aka Illa Sorceses drops his FreEP, Illavation, TODAY! GO GET THAT! I honestly have been waiting on this one for a minute. If you have followed this music portion of my blog for a minute, then you might of heard his "Devil in a Red Dress" joint which was pretty hot with the sampling...more of that in store on his album. He def comes smooth with a nice sample on the intro (wont reveal the sources, he got mad when i did that once before, haha), love the joint "Dreamin"...man honestly this is whole "jawn" is my type of album for those who know my old school, hard core liking of hip hop....TOO HYPE! SUPPORT GOOD MUSIC!!!

MONDAY, APRIL 4, 2011

Music Monday: Sick Music is Ill

"Sal's Pizzaria" feat. Gods'illa >> DMV stand up! Never heard of these cats, but this joint wasn't bad.

Watch on YouTube

"Crossroads" feat. TP and Phontigga >> Hot off the TP is my Hero mixtape. TP is former UNC Tarheels basketball player, that got his degree, decided to follow his passion and is part of the GREAT and LEGENDARY 9th Wonder IWWM music group.....FEELIN IT.

Watch on YouTube

"R4 Theme Song" feat. Big K.R.I.T. >> if you dont have Big K.R.I.T's RETURNOF4EVA mixtape, I dont know where YOU HAVE BEEN? But you were definitely in a coma....this mixtape is up for mixtape of the year, most definitely. Can't rave enough about Big K.R.I.T. One of the illest out right now.....GO GET THAT MIXTAPE!! NOW!....FEELIN IT!!!!

Definitely a fan the French speaking duo, Les Nubians. This track brings ya back to the "Motherland." FEELIN IT.

Watch on YouTube

"Supernatural" featuring King >> extremely about this singing trio. I was put on to this group by Phontigallo on the last episode of GordonGartrellRadio. INCREDIBLE trio. Please check them out and support this group on itunes, King, The Story. It will be the best $3.98 you have spent in a long time....FEELIN IT!

Watch on YouTube

"So Personafied" feat. Median >> this is straight out of my personal library of music, off Median's freshman album, Median's Relief. I recall exactly when I bought this album in 2007 after I graduated. I remember listening to this album every morning for almost a whole year, haha. Wanted to put you all on. FEELIN IT!!!

"Verbal Intercourse Part 2" feat. eLZhi >> for those who have ready the music from the beginning on my blog know I am a big fan of eLZhi. Caught me as a surprise that he departed from Slum Village's label (not really, lol). His last mixtape, The Leftovers still in heavy rotation for me from 2 years ago...FEELIN IT!.

"Representing Memphis" feat. Sharon Jone, Matt Berninger & The Roots >> I was just feelin this soul music. Enjoy!!

"Give All You Can" feat. Shad >> talk about them Canadians. Drake aint the only one with the tight skills, haha. When I heard his sing, Brother, from a few years back I was hooked right away....FEELIN IT!

Old School Song for the Moment:

Watch on YouTube

TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 2011

News Tid Bits: Baked Goods Not for sale

photo taken by those at WTOP

Hey a bake sale! Everyone loves delicious cookies and such, right? Well, this aint it... Some students at George Washington University decided to protest Affirmative Action and instead sell different Races. Wonder how they came up with the prices?....
If you're single with kids, no more tax breaks for you, possibly. So you single folks and your kids are apparently a virus on our societal moral views of proper relationships so I guess they figured you got enough help from the government and anymore would look like a government sponsorship on broken homes....really?...
Facebook in on the action on the Middle East? Naw, not this time before anything sparked they pull the plugged on a page >> http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-12902273 So much going on and has been going in the Middle East for decades and now it seems like many volcanic eruptions and we are just among the "big one". What that might be? I really wish I knew or do we really wanna know?....
A man who was on wrongly accused and convicted as well as put on "death row" filed a law suit against the DA office in New Orleans was denied reparations and blame to the DA office for tampering with evidence.....justice served or a unfair verdict or both?....

FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2011

FUNNY FRIDAY: Teddy Roosevelt is the real '50'.

Just wanted to add, Smithsonian did not find using their logo too amusing.

TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2011

Muhammad Ali is a Punching Bag

"reALIze" by Los Angeles artist Michael Kalish. Uses 1,300 punching bags, five miles of stainless steel and two miles of aluminum tubing. This is pretty amazing being an artist of his kind, having his publicity start with the DMV and being COLORBLIND

I found this to be something amazing and boxing being one of my major hobbies right now, definitely catches my mind.

Another gift from the Higher Power to give to the world....

MONDAY, MARCH 21, 2011

Music Monday: She Got All that Jazz in her Trunk

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RIP Nathaniel "Nate Dogg" Hale. This mix is from my hometown DJ legend, DJ LonnieB. Always a good look. Sorry if that link aint workin, check this out >> http://bit.ly/fr9qEA

Watch on YouTube

"Never stop loving you" feat. Terrance Martin >> the illest, the masterful 9th at it again with the well known musician from the West Coast Terrance Martin. I read that this brother was playing with Hidden Beach Recordings (the label with Jill Scott). I have a lot of their hip hop jazz records. Here is Mr. Martin mixtape as well, check it out.

Watch on YouTube

"World Premiere" feat. Mos Def >> Madlib hit it with an ill beat on this one. This joint is also rumored to be on Mos Def's upcoming album...shout to OkayPlayer.com for this one....FEELIN IT!

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"American Rapstar" feat. Big K.R.I.T >> def one of my favorite MCs in the game right now. Put out that real-talk, good classic Hip Hop. Can't wait for ReturnOf4Eva, March 22nd....FEELIN IT!

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"Assassins" feat. Jean Grae, Pharoahe Monch, & Royce Da 5’9 >> this joint goes hard, special Ms. Grae. This is off Pharoahe Monch's LP, W.A.R., coming next week.

Watch on YouTube

"Loving You is Killing Me" feat. Aloe Blacc >> been following this brotha for a while and def bring back some real music to the scene. His album, Good Things, I need to go ahead and cop myself, heard it was WELL worth it....FELLIN IT!

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"Time Around" by Oddisee >> just a straight ILL beat! What else would you expect from Oddissee....FEELIN IT!

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"Killers" feat. J.Cole >> My #1 upcoming MC hands down right now. still HIGHLY anticipating his debut album. Proving here to be a great storyteller; well really has proven that already through ALL his mixtapes.....FEELIN IT!

MONDAY, MARCH 7, 2011

Music Monday: No Sound Cause the Base Dropped

"The Luncheon" feat. TiRon & Ayomari >> as soon as I saw those two names with the title I knew right away what type of production this would be period....FEELIN IT!

Watch on YouTube

"Compared to What" feat. John Legend, remixed by J Period >> this song is off the J Period Wake Up! Radio mixtape, feat. Common, John Legend, The Roots and few others...EXCELLENT music mix, great energy, positive messages, just good feeling music, thoroughly enjoyed it...i think you will too!...FEELIN IT!

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"Dreaming" feat. Coolroy & Tunji >> Cali representin on the tracks and production (Like from PacDiv). Smooth, laid back, lyrics are pretty solid as well....FEELIN IT!

"Why Did I Fall in Love" feat. Marsha Ambrosius >> this aint too bad. I am a huge fan of both halves of Floetry so wanted to post this lil' half rendition of Frankie Lymon's great hit. Not bad, her album is coming soon.

Atmosphere - Just For Show by rhymesayers
"Just For Show" feat. Atmosphere >> Back at again! I am feelin' this, not a bad track. This is for those that are true fans of Atmosphere, even if you are not, I am sure you can appreciate the good hip hop.

"All Black Everything" feat. Lupe Fiasco >> just listen. dope music as always from Mr. Fiasco...MARCH 8TH, LASERS......ALREADY PRE-ORDERDED...FEELIN IT!

Watch on YouTube

"Why We Hustle?" feat. Dre-Ski >> my homie from Virgina Tech, Mondre aka Dre Ski on the come up. I remember seeing this brotha spit rhymes in my old apartment I stayed in while at school. Not bad. Check his mixtape out, Cloud 8.7.

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"Stone Rollin'" feat. Raphael Saadiq >> looks Mr. Saadiq is pickin' up right where he left off, from his last LP, The Way I See It. Def a fan of takin' it back and making it your own and who better than to do it than Mr. Tony! Toni! Tone! himself...FEELIN IT!

"Think it Through" feat. Szjerdene >> real smooth joint, she has familiar sound doesn't she?? .... FEELIN IT.

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"Chicage Blues" feat. Add-2 >> more fire from Add-2. There mixtape, A Tale of Two Cites, is good listen too....FEELIN IT.

Pharoahe Monch "Black Hand Side" feat. Styles P & Phonte' by duckdown
"Black Hand Side" feat. Pharoahe Monch, Styles P. & Phonte >> I know a lot of people, including have been long anticipatin' Monch's upcoming album W.A.R.

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"Liquor Store Blues" feat. Bruno Mars & "Jr. Gong" >> I am MAD late on this but I was feeling it a lil' bit and wanted to add it to the list. Hope you like.

FRIDAY, MARCH 4, 2011

Funny Friday: G A S

For all you folks that didn't believe the hype that our gas prices would continue to rise over the next few years...

good use of internet slang

shout out to Dr. Ellington Graves for sharing this!

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2011

If the shoes fit, PUT THEM ON.

Watch on YouTube

Interesting thoughts and points have been made already; not just by this man here. Don't usually focus on government politics, so I will claim I am not focusing on that, but this is about the representation of a working class deserving of fair treatment or at least supporters of those who are to stand with them....

That is all I will leave you with, now, "You do the dishes..."

DOING IT RIGHT: 100%

Big UPs to the young men of color graduating from Urban Prep Academy in Chicago, Illinois. 100% of these highly bright and intelligent young men have been accepted to 4 year accredited institutions. Definitely want to share this story to the world! CONGRATULATIONS GENTLEMEN!

>> Read More...

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2011

Funny Friday: You're gonna foreclose us!? BUT we're....

Wells Fargo! A man in Philadelphia discovers he has been wrongfully taxed on his mortgage by Wells Fargo. Because they did not response to his letter after 3 tries and more than 20 business days, he took them to court and won a legal settlement....Wells Fargo did not even show up to court so he also then took a foreclosure out on the bank...NO REALLY... How ironic...

Read more....

and I think Dave Chapelle said it best...

Watch on YouTube

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2011

A SAMPLE of my NOTES

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"House Party(After Party) feat. Jay Sentine & Rob Locke >> this beat is ill! lyrics aint bad either....FEELIN IT!

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"Used to Be" feat. Phil Ade >> Phil Ade's last mixtape, "The Letterman" was definitely fire. This joint is cool...FEELIN IT!

"Lo-Fi Love" feat. Theo Martin >> truly a big fan of Mr. Martin's good message and lyrics, great production all done by himself. Still jammin' to his mixtape from 2008, The Birth....FEELLIN IT!

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"We Aint Playin'" Money Makin Jam Boys >> Black Thought, Dice Raw, Truck North, STS, and P.O.R.N. make up MMJB...sound like an ill line up to me! Definitely feelin' the simple drum along with the hardcore lyrics...FEELLIN IT!

*Check out MMJB's mixtape, while you at it.

"HisStory" feat. Carlita Durrand >> for those who are not familiar with this woman, you may remember her from songs with The Foreign Exchange and Little Brother...smooth joint...FEELIN IT!

*Also, check her mixtape too, good ish!...Good music is soooooo good.

Watch on YouTube

"The Tune Up" feat. Stalley >> don't know much about this dude at all but def feelin this short spit...beat and positive lyrics on point...FEELIN IT.

Watch on YouTube

"Trunk Muzik" feat. Yelawolf >> Big up to my boy Levi for putting onto Yelawolf. He definitely slipped my radar on the hip hop scene. Don't know how since he is on Shady records. Check out his mixtape, Trunk Muzik....no link since they decided to make it an LP and not Free.

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"Sleep" feat. the Clubhouse & Coco O. >> smooth joint...just plain good music...FEELIN IT!

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"Star" feat. Kidz in the Hall, tabi Bonney & One Chance >> Naledge and Double O at again! Brain Candy indeed. Good productions uplifting, keep it to the street lyrics....FEELIN IT!

Other music news:

Jay Z and the Smiths (Will and Jada) are teaming to do a major motion picture remake of the classic 'Annie', starring, you may have guessed it...Willow Smith
Lupe's "Lasers", the 3rd LP from Mr. Fiasco set to be released March 8th
Prince is having is LAST ever concert at Madison Square garden. That is gon' be CRAZY!
Check out my people over at On.Us.Tees as they give you Black Music History through the month. Believe me, I am sure there are somethings on there that you have not heard or knew about, chyeah!!

So like Elvis, comes the Micheal Jackson impersonators....let the games begin!

Watch on YouTube

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2011

In the news: World Democracy or World Domination?

The people of Tunisia overthrow their President of 23 years...

Southern Sudan succeeds from Northern Sudan, peacefully....

Egypt's people remain at unrest as they rally against their current ruler of a 5th term in which I'm pretty sure he will not get another one...the people have spoken...

NOTE: Egypt is a republic like ourselves here in the U.S.

Many of these nations, once ruled under a tyranny of some sort, are joining in the ranks of Democracy. Even China was "jumping out of their seats" a little bit on hearing the news of what is going on with many countries....

**UPDATE: We can now add Yemen to follow their fellow brothers and sisters of Egypt and Tunisia in their protest for "democracy."

Watch on YouTube

I think this song is appropriate for this post, if you have an open mind.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 28, 2011

My T.G.I.F.

I know some of yall remember these days....

Good look to my boy B. Aziz on this one!

This message has been sent using the picture and Video service from Verizon Wireless!

To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture.

Note: To play video messages sent to email, Quicktime@ 6.5 or higher is required.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 27, 2011

Yo quiero Taco Hell...

Well 50, you might get your possible revenge....?

That's riiiiiiight, finally someone is attempting to prove my theory that the mess Taco Bell (or as I refer to them as Taco Hell) sells is not really beef.

A law suit has been set for against them, no they have not been proven guilty and if this suit is thrown out, please believe, it is still horrible meet. They use the lowest grade of beef, Grade D.

Why do you think your tacos are $.99???

TUESDAY, JANUARY 25, 2011

Kids to Hell or Go to Jail?

Where are the "Mr. Jaime Escalante" teachers when ya need em?...

School vouchers. Vouchers, for those are able to receive them, help families in need, who are unable to afford a better education for their teens. But they also, arguably, are a temporary fix to a broken system and do not go to directly to the source of the problem; the broken school system.
Tough choice of morale, indeed.

Now comes a desperate mother wanting the best for her children, at least that is what we can assume since they live in the Projects in Akron, Ohio. Well known for its impoverished areas.

The law is the law, right? She tricked the system that was failing her, so she should be jailed, right?

I don't know....

Read more --> http://www.blackeconomicdevelopment.com/black-mother-jailed-for-sending-kids-to-white-school-district/

What's Wrong With This Picture?...

Yeah ummm.... Tyrese, brother, gotta make sure you interpret your dreams correctly...

And yes I know I may be a little late on this but I wanted to jump in on the fun

Shout out to On.Us.Tees blogspot (which can be found the blogs I follow) for this one!

MONDAY, JANUARY 24, 2011

The deadly sin of Burgers ~ The Luther

We are all doomed but at least we will have smiles on our faces....both a service and disservice to the late and great Luther Vandross...

The Luther was recently rated the number 1 burger in America. No, obesity is NOT a problem in this country, sike! I can't remember the last time I saw children playing outside after Christmas with their new toys. I remember when my parents would not let me come inside until it got dark on any given day. What happen to parents forcing their kids to play outside and get some exercise?

I am not going on a rant, I am sure most of yall get the picture...

Watch on YouTube

FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2011

Funny Friday: They'll probably make a law for this too...

Watch on YouTube

Texting while walking, nuff said folks.... ah but wait, apple may have saved the day! >> solution

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 19, 2011

Things 2 Note, Treble & Clef

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"Good Foot" feat. Big K.R.I.T. >> if you aint on this brotha yet, and you love hip hop, now's your chance. His latest mixtape, Before There Wuz Here, is CLASSIC....FEELIN IT!!

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"Gone and Never Coming Back" feat. Melonia Fiona >>currently is one of my favorite R&B artist out. She just has that great voice and persona along with energy and soul that flows through her music. LOVE her last album from start to finish and will be one of the first to go get the new LP, MF, when released...FEELIN IT!

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"P.A." feat. Freeway & Mac Miller >> PA stand up!!! Another tight Statik & Freeway heavy hitta....FEELIN IT!

"Keys To The City" feat. Nipsey Hussle >> Westsiiiiiiide....this beat is pretty smooth, def feelin it, this rest of his mixtape, The Marathon, aint too bad either but not feelin' it so much lyrically, but Nip Hu$$le, do ya thang....FEELIN IT!

"Rainy Days" feat. Mike Jagger >> Bout time this mixtape hit the streets, The Eleventh Hour, 2+ years in the making. There is some great production on this one!...I remember sending this song to ex girlfriend of mines, haha... (this song might be a repost by the way) FEELIN IT!!

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"To Tomorrow (A Toast To Hip Hop)" feat. Najee & Nitty Scott, MC >> nice lil joint, real cool. Don't know too much about Najee, but it seems he brings a good positive vibe.

Another smooth head nodder from Outasight. Track produced by 6th Sense...I believe Outasights albums is coming either spring or summer of this year...let's hope so.

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"Soulfun Sunday" mixed by yours truly, DJ LookUp >> just a lil' quick mix while I was sitting at my computer this past Sunday. Hope yall enjoy!

MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 2011

Remembering my paved path (continued)....

Watch on YouTube

~ 1968, he knew...

SATURDAY, JANUARY 8, 2011

Effective Barbershops: A Dying Breed?..

The good ole barbershop; the home away from home for annoyed husbands, the underground neighborhood retail store, the place where any man can freely express his opinion and have discussions on just about anything.

Remember when haircuts were just 10 dollars? I know those of the older generation can remember when it was 3-5 dollars. Now 16 dollars is considered a steal deal. I will use the cliche phrase "in the economy", barbershops can not efficiently run their shops on the prices we all used to know but I have noticed something as the prices have risen quality of some of the barbershops have gone down, well at least in my opinion.

So Kev, why not just cut your own hair?

Funny you'd ask. I definitely would have no problem in doing it myself and believe, over a short time period, could learn to do a great job.

BUT, I see going to the barbershops as a sound investment in the community. Very often barbershops and salons are at the center of the community. Involving themselves as sponsors for local businesses, little league athletics ect. Lately its been hard to find the good ole barbershops these days. You know the ones where they have the one elder man who shares stories and offers an abundances of conventional wisdom and experience to the youth... Don't see none of that really too much. But the baby boomers of the world won't live forever.. Understanding they have a business to run, shops have become more efficient in doing things by appointment instead the good ole walk-ins. But that doesn't leave much room sometimes for people to sit around and discuss/argue the ill and deals of the community and world.

Maybe it's just me... I'm what you may call, "old school at heart" type of man. So I appreciate the nostalgic idiosyncrasies brought forth by those who have been here for a while.

Aiight those are my randoms thoughts, just got the fresh cut...I'm out

-juskev

MONDAY, JANUARY 3, 2011

2-0-1-1

HAPPY NEW YEAR! 2011 IS HERE AND YOU MADE IT! I truly thank for God for allowing me to make another calendar year with all the up, downs, struggles and rewards of life. I say that with no regret. My year was truly prosperous and I continue to pray that my fam and friends continue to prosper as well.

"Rap Up 2010" feat. Skillz
And what better way to open up the year 2011 than with the ghostwriter and my hometown hip hop representative, S-K-I-Double L-Z!