Monday, December 19, 2016

#newmusic @joshdwh "Motion siccness" EP #motionsiccness

Josh DWH has been laying low for most of 2016, and as the year ends we are getting a piece of why. The “Motion Siccness” EP is Josh second solo project. Having released a few singles throughout the year, ‘Lately’ was our first taste of what the EP will offer. With features from Whispers, Zay Mason, Jae Tips & Chris RIvers the lyrical prowess is insane. Produced by Dizzy Banko, Scoop One, Kali Reem, & Dougy; all mixes by D.R.A.F. Josh has an unique way of lacing his feelings into a thoroughly entertaining vernacular and storyline.

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Opening up with “Know no better” a track that lets you in on where Josh has been mentally for the last couple years. Learning new life lessons and growing in both mentality and craft from the daily grind and hustle. In the accompanying video he can be seen in the woods somewhere with a defamed trump face, a large crow bar and a ski masked young lady looking ready to do some damage. (#notmypresident) But just like never sleeping, fighting to succeed.. He don't know no better, and that may be to his advantage.

“Options” opens with a hook from featured artist Whispers that explores one lesson learned.. Be yourself, and better yet think for yourself. As Josh reflects over the mindset of his peers and company he has entertained, then distanced himself from.

Which takes us to “Lately” the head space one could be left in after realizing things and people around you are not what they seem. When it seems like life won’t stop throwing bullshit your way, but you’re resilient so you manage. (Check out the visual for "Lately") 

“Timeless” is the swing, it’s like once you embrace and accept what you can’t control you start to see things different. Find new focus, invest less in others opinions. Jae Tips comes through on the type spoken word flow, so soothing you almost wouldn't notice all the general shade thrown.

Zay Mason jumps right into the ‘do for love’ (ahem Bobby Caldwell, but we love Pac) sample. When these two team up they have an organic chemistry that feeds off one another. Zay is his classic dark cynical and crazy while Josh spills where he is presently at with no stories, just pure emotions. “... The pressure will make you golden..”

I’m sure not one year can pass in a person's life without the pursuit of a romantic interest which is the first verse of “Possible” but as quick as someone can be an interest they can become the past.

What I feel the whole purpose of this EP is comes in the form of “Strictly 4 the Culture”. Some hip-hop artist still do this for the love of the expression it allows you to have. Both Josh and Chris Rivers spit bars straight through.

As the EP is coming to a close it’s that no holds barred moment, “What it do” is exactly that. Not coming at any particular person, but for everyone. The haters, the peers, the competition, the friends turned enemies, and anyone who wants it.

The departing message leaves us knowing where Josh stands and where his head is at going into 2017… “Keep Working”

But, if one line could some up this project it would be…”you’d be surprised what you can go through in one year”

Josh DWH

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“Motion Siccness”

-  Jessie Marie

Friday, September 16, 2016

Acoustic Exchange: August "Walking in your Truth" #acousticexchange @iamsteffreed

What does it mean to walk in your truth? 

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I am not sure and like anything else the ideais up for interpretation, but one thing I do know is every artist to touch the stage August 30th for the monthly Acoustic Exchange residency at Harlem Nights Bar presented by Steff Reed, was walking in theirs.
Every last Tuesday when I walk through those doors I am transported to another place in time. Where the energy and love flows freely , and is present in abundance. No one is worried about expelling all they have because the vibes are all reciprocated and shared. This is our sanctuary and we worship one another as artists, creators, and humans. 
"Walking in your Truth" could have been the title of a short EP with the collective of songs sang by Kaya Nicole. Her stage presence and talent draws you in to where you almost feel what she must be feeling as she offers a piece of herself through lyrics and passion. Kaya Nicole really took us to church with the amount of light and energy she left on that stage. I wouldn't be surprised if a piece of her heart was left right there where she preformed.
Then we all got to reminisce on the days of R&B crooning when Ryan Lane took the stage preforming a medley of R&B covers. He evoked the energy of 90's R&B taking his show from the stage to the crowd. He even danced!!! How many new R&B singers do you see dancing and spreading their energy around the room among the fans?
Lea Anderson closed out the show with a mix of chantuesse meets 16 bars. With her new album [Pronounced (Lee)] out she took us through a brief synopsis of what it offers performing several songs anyone can relate to. We have all had our trials and tribulations with people and more specifically, love.
I can not express in enough words just what occurs from 7pm to midnight in Harlem Nights every last tuesdy of the month. Just know if you need to refresh your soul, find inspiration, rest a weary mind, collaborate with like spirits this is the place you need to be.

WWW.IAMSTEFFREED.COM

IG: @ACOUSTICEXCHANGE | @IAMSTEFFREED 

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Wednesday, July 20, 2016

Why "Black Panther" is the next "black" movie I am going to see.

With racial tensions at an all time high in the United states of America we have once again been pacified with "them" telling OUR story via their Hollywood production teams and studios with series such as "Underground" & the remake of "Roots". While on the surface we are suppose to be thankful for them putting our struggles we overcame in the lime light I cant help but feel slighted in a way.

Why is the only time a black actor or black cast stars in a movie/show it ends up being some pre or post slavery narrative or a stereotypical black family movie? On one hand we are suppose to praise how far we have come from playing butler & mammies to be playing butlers & mammies. On the other hand, how far does that really put us? The producer, director, studio, etc will make ten times what any black actor made in the capitalization of our story or proposed dynamic.

This does not sit well with me. So while I can appreciate OUR story being told (no matter how diluted or sugar coated) I still feel like it is all a part of some minstrel show.

Which brings me to Black Panther to star Chadwick Boseman. May all marvel comic  lovers forgive me for being naive to the specifics of this character and his story line, but what I do know is he is a black super hero. A black super hero from a major franchise headlining in his own movie.  Some may wonder why this would mean more to me in the strides for equality in the entertainment industry and let me explain.

It is one thing to receive a role a black person must play based off a story line, it is another to receive a role that is a-typical of a white actor. Some will argue that he is a black super hero so a black man must play him but can we take into account the fact that they even decided to give this black character a whole movie. The reason this strikes me is purely psychological. What some may not realize is that subliminal indoctrination is very real. If all you see on your screen is black people reliving a not so distant past, or feeding into the stereotypes that apparently defines what being black in america is, you will find these things to be true and acceptable. A feeling of triumph in being allowed to see a black person play a slave makes many people think we have made it. Like the issues are all solved. We're free.

 Same as being content with the majority of the movies that display faces that you can identify with having a story line full of dynamics and behaviors stereotypically associated black people, families, & communities. While some can discern between the fact that it is just that; a stereotype, others are not even aware of the fact that they see it and accept it as reality.

Now, to see a black face in what is typically a white lead role is breaking boundaries to me. 
And if you think we don't have boundaries to break reference last year when the rumor hit that Idris Elba might be playing James Bond. A fictional character. To say some fans where in an uproar is an understatement. 

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2018
Starring: Chadwick Boseman

Thursday, June 16, 2016

The #AcousticExchange presented by @iamsteffreed x #NewSoulRenaissance May 2016: Transformation

Transformation:
trans·for·ma·tion
ˌtran(t)sfərˈmāSH(ə)n/
noun
  1. a thorough or dramatic change in form or appearance.
  2. a metamorphosis during the life cycle of an animal.
The “Acoustic Exchange” theme for the month of May was “Transformation”; a word that can be subjective in what it means and where it is applied.
If you are not familiar with the “Acoustic Exchange” it is the residency founded and ran by Steff Reed x New Soul Renaissance that takes place every last tuesday of the month at Harlem Nights Bar ( 138th & Adam Clayton Powell in Harlem). “Acoustic Exchange” is a organic exchange of art and energy amongst creatives of all types. The place fills up with singers, musicians, poets, revolutionaries, activists, painters, dancers, and those who simply appreciate the arts. Then they share. Share their talents, their thoughts, their vibes, their hearts. From the beginning to the end there is an exchange of love between strangers, friends, and family alike that is surreal.




May featured Jillian Faith & Eric Manuel (@jillianfaithmusic & @ericmanuel12) a sister and brother who came all the way from Cincinnati, Ohio to be apart of the “Acoustic Exchange”. Sharing a few original songs as well as covers they started the night off after the always necessary impromptu jam session.

Jam sessions accompany the opening and closing of each “Acoustic Exchange”




R.O.E. which stands for “Rising Over Envy” (@risingoverenvy) is a rapper transplanted to nyc via Chicago as a gift to the ever evolving hip-hop culture. With lyrics full of substance and thought provoking messages R.O.E. gave a refreshing wake-up to the room.





Steff Reed always manages to bring an innovative set to “Acoustic Exchange” this time blending in covers like the one of N.E.R.D’s “She wants to move” amongst his original songs. He also took his set as a chance to honor the legacy that is Prince which left a vibe in the room that showed just how influential a man Prince was and still is.

Shay Leonia ended the night. The gifted songstress as well as her background vocalists released the soul for the night. Starting with a rendition of an original song translated into spanish she showed the versatility that an artist can still have today. Giving respect to many singers of the past who sang in several languages. Think Nina Simone. Shay left the night in a good place with a few covers of classic 90's.

The night was once again an overall success thanks to the vision and efforts of Steff Reed and those who help bring this event to life.

Acoustic Exchange
The last Tuesday of every month at Harlem Nights (2361 7th avenue/138th street. NYC) For More info:http://iamsteffreed.com/acousticexcha…
Showtime is from 8pm-12am
Admission is Free.

Monday, October 13, 2014

NöNe - What I Mean (I Put In Work) (Official Video)

The Slayage is too real.
NöNe released the much anticipated visual to "What I Mean (I Put In Work)"
Listen.. & Submerge yourself in the flowing river of cunty-ness.

Saturday, October 11, 2014

New Video: @ChinaMacMusic - #BuckACop

Red Money Records China Mac has just dropped the visual for the controversal song "Buck a Cop". A song born out of the high social media coverage of the police brutality and corruption happening across America right now. China took this opportunity to be a voice for the oppressed and frustrated people of our nation. Though the title may lead you to believe his suggesting we all grab some guns and start executing them as thy have been doing us. It is bigger than that.. Enjoy.
 

"With all of the oppression the people are forced to live with by the very people who are chosen to protect us, It was only time that a song like "Buck A Cop" would surface. Welcome to the new era.."
 - China Mac

RedMoneyrecords.com
FOLLOW China Mac:
Twitter: @chinamacmusic
I.G: @chinamacmusic
F.B china-mac

Thursday, October 2, 2014

White lesbian couple sues sperm bank forgiving them a bi-racial child



Jennifer Cramblett, 36, and her wife Amanda Zinkon, 29, got married in NYC in 2011 and a few days later Jennifer was artificially inseminated with sperm from a white donor they picked from the Midwest Sperm Bank in Illinois. Five months later in April 2012 the couple called to reserve more sperm to later conceive  a sibling for their child when they were informed that Jennifer had been inseminated with sperm from a black donor (#330) instead of the white donor they had chosen (#380).


It has been stated by her that upon hearing the news the excitement of being pregnant was replaced with "anger, disappointment and fear.” While they have every right to be upset with the sperm bank this opens up an even more sensitive topic… are they upset the bank messed up, or are they upset the bank messed up and gave them a bi-racial child?

Tuesday, September 23, 2014

*New Mixtape Alert* "summerDAZE" by @sirm00re

End the summer in nostalgia... get into "summerDAZE"

http://sirmoore.com/


In the words of Sir Moore  himself...

"summerDAZE was created off of vibes. The feeling I have had all summer, memories and experiences from past summers. This tape was created to tell a story and keep your mind going, imagination flowing & your heart full of hope for brighter days to come. This is my first Mixtape and I appreciate the love and support. Thank You All, much love, peace & light. this journey was fun, bright & vibes were genuine.

Until next time.


spreadPEACE"

"Positive
Energy
Always
Creates
Elevation. " - sir moore 

Review coming soon.. 

get your copy

Monday, September 22, 2014

Just a thought...


"I don't care about what we do
Just how we do it
Give me experiences 
to last a lifetime
Even if we don't..."

- BGINYC

Sunday, September 21, 2014

*New Single Alert* @jonesformayor "Stop And Frisk"

We premiered this on "The Vantage Point" a few months ago inline with some current issues In Jones We Trust has released "Stop & Frisk" to the people via injoneswetrust.com 


Sunday, September 14, 2014

Pyer Moss designer Jean-Raymond's #theyhavenames shirt is proper use of a platform.



At his Spring 2015 menswear collection Kerby Jean-Raymond wore a shirt in tribute to the many black men who have been victims of the justice system from their murders by police, to their killers not being held accountable for their crimes to the full extent of the law. He has recognized that he has a platform to influence others and is using his position to keep his peers and supporters aware. Though the shirt may not make it to production this still draws attention to the issues at hand and was an excellent use of his platform. 

According to Jean-Raymond’s Instagram @kerbito , I screened my shirt by hand, I hit my head in the process and never cleaned off the screen so it’s ruined. I can’t make you one right now. Not sure if I even want to. I’m working with some interesting people currently to figure out ways to make a lasting impact on our culture. What we come up with may or may not be as public. Thank you for supporting and inquiring #useyourplatform” 

Sunday, September 7, 2014

@OfficialWyld_7 "7's are Wyld" EP Review

I have one of those “Hip” mothers and some months ago she sent Wyld7 and his manager my way to network for my radio show. After giving his single “Mad Max” a spin after it was sent to me I went ahead and gave his catalog a listen as he dropped his EP “7’s are Wyld”.

http://wyld7.com/

Wyld 7 draws in the mainstream style of hip-hop with songs like “Mad Max”, “The Boys” and “Kill the bottle” But even the root of these songs are more than generic street anthems. Mad Max is an ode to the Indians who follow their chiefs in a world where everyone wants to be the big man.  While certain lyrics in “Kill the Bottle” sheds light on reasons and aftermaths of living a party lifestyle while maintaining a party vibe for club goers. 

Taking a step out of the typical topics of hip-hop and rap Wyld 7 gives you songs like “Recollect” which follows the life and death of a drug addict. This took me back to songs of the 90s that touched on the real issues the urban society and inner city see. Then we have the 90s style beat for “Loose Lips” that serves sunny cali low rider.

Sunday, August 24, 2014

Americas pockets. It is a place to start…



In the aftermath of Ferguson it seems that maybe, just maybe, this time a mass majority of people are fed up with the laws injustices to racially tense situations. With petitions for laws such as “Mike Brown Law” requiring ALL police officers to wear cameras while on duty, & Obama looking into the police use of military weapons and equipment it seems as if some long term actions may be in place.  
Still in the meantime how to we make sure these incidents are not forgotten? 

First, DON’T STOP SPEAKING. This does not mean you have to post on twitter and Instagram all day with news updates and links and whatnot, but do not forget and do not stop talking. It doesn’t have to be an isolated incident but use your voice, aloud and online, to express that this issue does remain and we must do better.

Second, when we think of America, the government, and those who fund and capitalize of the society you know what matters most to all of them… Money. So the most effective way to show we are not just complaining, and we are not just going to forget we can hit them where it will hurt the most. Several organized monetary protests ideas are being passed around. Details after the jump





TMZ got Chris Brown Tagging the legendary 76 Station in L.A.

Chris Brown has always been a multi-talented artists. People are often surprised to find out he can paint and tag just as well as he dances and sings. TMZ caught chris tagging the legendary Norm's 76 gas station off Sunset Blvd while taking a break from promoting his upcoming album "X".




Even follow street artist Alec Monopoly gave Chris props for his spray can skills. Alec well known for his Monopoly man satire pieces is a respected artists in the world of street art and graffiti.

For more of Chris Work and some favorite pieces from some of my favorite street artists hit the jump..

Stalley Announces Debut Album Title

Ive been a fan of Stalley since his "Lincoln Way Nights" mixtape and ever since he signed with MMG/Atlantic I have been anticipating his debut album..

Welp.. No date, but we have a title.. 
"Ohio"



Named after his home state I am just glad to know he has not been signed and forgotten. Though no official date is mentioned it is "coming soon"

Click the jump to watch his youtube video where he announces the title as well as talking the journey up to this point...

Friday, August 22, 2014

Meanwhile in Ferguson, Missouri



In the almost two weeks since Mike Brown was murdered in Ferguson, Missouri we have seen what most residents would call a peaceful community turn into a war zone. With images going viral through social media the scenery looks like a battle between the citizens and powers that be in some third world countries. In what seems like a case that needed no more than common sense to see who was in the wrong and at fault, a war has begun. Literally, with Martial Law allowing the National Guard to occupy and take action on this community whether provoked or not. 



What we are seeing before our eyes is the veil of so called freedom being lifted to see the harsh reality of corrupt powers in control. Our society thrives off silence, fear, and ignorance; so the relentless pursuit for justice in Ferguson is throwing the authorities off. Where normally the crowds would have dispersed with the next breaking news segment, the voices have only grown in numbers and gotten larger.

(For Mike Brown) J. Cole - Be Free

J. Cole was one of the first to respond to the tragedies going on in Ferguson Missouri with the release of this song "Be Free" as well as showing face in the community. Its nice to think some of our artists care.


Download: J.Cole - Be Free

New Visual: @Ys_perignon - ( Love Me )

Check out the new visual from Calis own YS for his single "(Love Me)" off his latest EP "Goldmind"

Twitter: @Ys_perignon










Tuesday, August 12, 2014

Mike Brown was MURDERED by a Ferguson Cop.. Period.

18  year old unarmed black teen, Michael Brown, was shot and killed eight to ten times Saturday august 9th 2014 at 2pm in Ferguson, Missouri (a suburb of St. Louis) by a Ferguson police officer. 

Immediately a social media frenzy ensued with a few people on the scene posting pictures and videos from the time Michaels body was left lying in the street (Michael Skolnik tweets, “Mike Brown’s body was left in the street for four hours before the police removed him. #Ferguson”) to videos of the “riots” that ensued during protests over the weekend. Sunday the chief of Ferguson police held a press conference stating that Brown had “physically assaulted” the officer in his vehicle, attempted to take his gun and then was shot while running away. 

This statement came a day after many eye witness statements such as Dorian Johnson who had been walking with Brown. Johnson said he was walking with Brown in the middle of the street when a police car pulled up. The officer told the teens to use the sidewalk, according to Johnson. After an exchange of words, the officer "shot, and once my friend felt that shot, he turned around and put his hands in the air, he started to get down and the officer still approached with his weapon drawn and fired several more shots."

This being corroborated by several others that stated they saw Brown with his hands up when he was shot several times, and that shots originated from inside the cop’s vehicle. Yet this officer is on paid administrative leave pending an investigation for... murder?


This is the third occasion in a month where a black man (Eric Garner, John Crawford) was killed at the hands of an officer. Each one taking paid or non-paid leaves while investigations ensue. Talk about stalling techniques. When someone kills a cop in front of people do they get the luxury of never being arrested and booked till an investigation ensues?

First… the cover ups.


Do you live a WYLD life? @wyld7 new EP #7sarewyld

http://wyld7.com/music.html

Wyld 7 is here with his new EP "7's are WYLD" 

A Florida native he has seen a lot in his own life and just wants to translate it into his art. With a balance of songs for those who live the streets, those who live on the block, and the ladies all over "7's are WYLD" has something for the hip-hop lover in everyone. 

Steady on a grind making noise up and down the coasts don't wait to know him.. Download the EP NOW!!


IG: @Wyld_7