new album

Boom Bap guru Maine the Medicine tells all in the in-depth interview about his new album ‘S.O.A. (Son Of Alice).’ The album in tribute to his late mother not only exudes classic head-nodding energy but also pulls on heartstrings. Maine discusses the creation of the album, emcee producer chemistry, making his mother proud, and more.

MJ: I see you and Leadgeon are still going strong, talk a little bit about that chemistry.

Maine: Well with Leadgeon, that’s 30-year chemistry and brotherhood. I don’t have to tell him what kind of beats I need, he already knows. Now lyrically we always push each other with the pen. For us, that inner competition will always be there.

MJ: One thing I find when it comes to your albums it’s difficult to pinpoint one or even two favorite records. All your albums are theme-based and flow like a story from beginning to end, with no skipping. However, I do want to touch on “Pour Liquor” as that seems to hit hard and hit home with many fans and listeners.

Maine: Yes, “Pour Liquor” seems to be a popular one with the fans. I wrote that hook during the Covid,  because of all the friends and family I lost that year. I hadn’t gotten a chance to write a verse to it until the night of my dad’s funeral. I was already halfway through the album, but I needed to pay homage to my father. As for the feature, that’s my cousin Khali Hustle from the Bay Area. He, like myself, lost a few people, and almost lost his own life to an attempted murderer. So, I’m grateful he’s still here to jump on this record with me.

MJ: I want to take a moment to pull on heartstrings and ask how difficult it was to create “Momma” and the array of emotions you must feel hearing that song being played.

Maine: Yes, that song was hard to make, and at times was hard to listen to. My mom was my everything, and that void will never be filled. She was a single mom, worked 2 jobs, and tried her best to provide for my sister and me. She was a big fan of my music, even though she said I curse too much. But she would love to watch my videos on YouTube. So, I just wanted to honor her with this album, and make her proud. Maybe one day I can compose myself enough to perform it.

MJ: Both as a fan and professional in the music industry, I must say how refreshing it is to experience your growth as a man and artist with each album you release. There’s a manner in which you invite the world into your personal life experiences that allows us to authentically embrace and grip your emotions. Your use of lyricism and wordplay flows effortlessly over boom-bap cadences. What is it about Maine The Medicine that stands out from other artists?

Maine: I just try to be the best version of myself. I move off of the emotion and the vibe of the beat. Sure I have topics that I want to address,  but instead of forcing I wait for the right track to bring it out of me. I also know as an artist I can always get better. I can always make my sword sharper. I never convince myself that I made it because that can go to your head. I want to continue to keep that hunger for more.

MJ: Take us behind the scenes of the album ‘S.O.A.’  Let us in from the inspiration to creation to the final product. I know the album is buzzing with a social media frenzy and fans are listening on repeat with genuine compassion.

Maine: The creative part was fun and therapeutic for me. I mean, of course, it was some pressure because this album is dedicated to my mom. But at the same time, that’s what helped it flow. When I was listening to the tracks, I was thinking who could’ve made this dope? There are so many dope artists I know that I hadn’t worked with yet, so I wanted to link with them on this album. Plus I got the few staples that are always on my albums like Leadgeon, Suspect,  and Tysoul. But I listened to this album about a hundred times to make sure it gave me the same feeling as the first time. I can honestly say it most certainly did.

MJ: What is your secret to being able to stay afloat and create timeless music? In an era where music seems to fall into an abyss of one-hit wonders and what’s trending, there must be some challenges.

Maine: I make music on how I feel and the vibe the beat gives me. I put my all into my music, and I’m not afraid of being vulnerable about my life. I think artists fail when they force a hit or try to sound like what’s hot. The best thing to do is to let the music come naturally. In the process sometimes you end up with a hit that you didn’t know was going to be a hit.

MJ: I’m not sure what can top ‘S.O.A.’ but can you give us some inside scoop on other projects or endeavors you’re working on?

Maine: It’s going to be really hard to top ‘S.O.A.’ but I’m not really sure that I want to. Because it’s such a special album, I wouldn’t mind if this is my “Illmatic.” No album I do after this will ever be as special as this one. As for future projects, I will stick to the same formula I have been using and let the mood and the beat take me on a journey. I have a few projects coming up, like the Mercy Gang EP and an EP titled ‘Iron Horse Talk.’ Leadgeon and I have an EP as well. But for now, I’m just pushing the ‘S.O.A.’ album, and the tee shirt line we’re working on with Electric Frog Designs.

MJ: As we wrap up, take this time to let the world and fans know anything else about the album or Maine The Medicine

Maine: I want people to know that I put a lot of time and emotion into this album. I’m super honored about the response I’m getting off ‘S.O.A.’  The love and support make me feel like I succeeded in making my mama proud. The thing I want people to know about Maine is I love being creative. I’m going to always try to give you something different.

Righteous, a famed Canadian emcee/CEO of Taot Recordings releases the official video for “What Is” featuring Ruste Juxx and DJ Mercilless. The single is taken from his latest project titled ‘and the DEVIL is’ out now on all streaming platforms.

DJ Mercilless sets it off with his signature cuts and scratches while Righteous is crate-digging, setting the tone of the video. Using witty wordplay and gem-dropping punchlines, Righteous defines the role of an emcee and DJ. Ruste Juxx follows suit with his verse as What is an emcee if he can’t rap, what is a DJ if he can’t scratch hits the core throughout the entire video. The duo pays respect and homage to authentic Hip Hop, the culture, and the lost elements without sounding dated. Watch the video and stream the album below. 

Stream the album ‘and the DEVIL is’ below which features AKX of Righteous Revolution, B Fox, Kool G Rap, Rashad Roulett, Thirsty McGurk, Van Glorious, Ikee Mula, and the late Faith Walker with production by DJ Mercilless, Ear 2 That Beat, and bytman.

https://music.apple.com/ca/album/and-the-devil-is-ep/1585855244

https://righteous.bandcamp.com/album/and-the-devil-is

Follow Taot Recordings

www.taotrecordings.com

https://www.instagram.com/taotrecordings/

https://www.facebook.com/TaotRecordingsOfficial/

@taotrecordings on Twitter

D.C. acclaimed artist Priest Da Nomad returns with a new video titled “Pumpfakin.” The single/video is taken from his recently released album ‘Out Da House.’ In “Pumpfakin” Priest addresses Social Media thugs and addresses accountability.

We utilize the web and Social Media in our day-to-day lives for work, to stay connected with family and friends, and other avenues of productivity. However, the web also houses a host of cyberbullies who wouldn’t be so bold away from the computer and keyboard. Priest provides cutthroat reminders to use manners or get hands put on. The gritty, boom bap production along with Priest’s lyrical blows are sure to resonate and get people thinking twice before they hit ALL CAPS.

Watch the video (from the album ‘Out Da House’) and connect with Priest Da Nomad below.

Stream/download ‘Out Da House’ below on preferred platforms
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/album/04WNeuFkMgX0VuPWtS63Y2?si=PjKD7fqcRuixFHh9nkxPEg&utm_source=copy-link
Tidal
https://tidal.com/album/185754949
Apple Music
https://music.apple.com/us/album/out-da-house/1569769011?ls
Bandcamp
https://priestdanomad.bandcamp.com/album/out-da-house

Connect with Priest Da Nomad
Twitter: @priestdn
IG: @priestdanomad

Blacbird Records along with Maylay Sparks, Clever 1, and K-Sluggah announce the release of their collaborative album ‘Frozen Mugs’ available now on all digital platforms with distribution by PHI Records. The 12-track project includes features from D.J. PH, DJ Too Tuff, Malik B (The Roots), Chukk Rukkuz, Planet Asia, Rocc Spotz, Briefcase Bugg, and Joe “The Butcher” Nicolo.

The dynamic trio of Maylay Sparks (Philly MC), Clever 1 (Chicago MC), and K-Sluggah (Swedish producer/MC) have rubbed mics and stages with Hip Hop legends and music icons for over a decade, so it only made sense they linked to curate and deliver an epic dose of earmilk. Hip Hop purists, prepare to be compelled by an overflowing kaleidoscope of gritty head-nodding production, classic cuts and scratches, edgy wordplay, and raw lyricism…

Stream/download ‘Frozen Mugs’ on preferred platforms below and stay tuned as vinyl, cassettes, and CD’s will be available in August.

https://songwhip.com/maylay sparks

/frozen-mugs?fbclid=IwAR08bOpXnawQqnZc-RlZAg8b_wiPLsSC_0PTViJyuliXrVdT74F0n0A2fuE

https://www.discogs.com/artist/3299231-Clever-One

Catch a glimpse into the album by D.J. PH of Zulu Nation, Marseille

Connect below

PHI Records:

Instagram: @phirecords @phienterprises

K-Sluggah:

Instagram: @ksluggah

https://ksluggahmusic.bandcamp.com/releases

Maylay Sparks:

Instagram: @rahmaylay

https://maylaysparks.bandcamp.com/

https://www.hiphopenterprise.com/search?q=maylay+sparks

Clever 1:

Instagram: @getclever1

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kymmar.ibnalqatan

ATL’s own Cuudy Broun releases “Groovestick Benefits” produced by Spittzwell and shot by Eink Signature. The single/video is taken from his new album ‘Groovestick’ available now on digital platforms.

Simple and straight to the point over a blend of smooth yet groovy cadences…Cuudy Broun’s new grind comes with many schemes that will test his state of mind, however with ten toes forward he can’t be stopped. When he leaves the house it’s all about getting his money. Watch the video and connect with Cuudy Broun below.

Cuudy Broun (website and Social Media) http://www.loadbreed.com/cuudybroun.html 

“Groovestick” album on preferred platforms https://album.link/i/1439813932

Merkabah releases visuals for the lead single off his critically acclaimed ‘The Messiah Complex’ album. “Kiss of Judas” produced by Metasin Music is shot in what appears to be a run-down church filled with religious candles and Merkabah spreading the good word through lyrical wisdom.

The drum-driven track begins with an excerpt from a sermon defining the kiss of death. Merkabah then makes his entrance into the church to christen the grounds with his own lyrical scriptures. He speaks on the greazy and slimy moves of others all while they preach the name of the lord.

Merkabah is honest with his proclamation to rid demons, lies, and deceit the one way he knows and lives by…his pen and pad which serves as his sword and holy writ.

Watch the video below and stream/download ‘The Messiah Complex’ album here on Bandcamp.

M.O.U.F, MC hailing from Long Island, and his recently released album “Move Over U Finished” continue to top charts. The 12 track LP is available on all digital platforms for streaming and purchase with features from Voice, Kronik, FANTAB, A DFRNT, and Mxnxpxly Family.

The lyrical VIP delivers an album embodied with diversity sure to add to his already growing fan base.  He offers comedy, temptation, grittiness, and head bopping tracks. “I Been” is a club banger describing his level compared to industry players. While “Everything” is a record about a thug seducing a woman possibly out of his league.

M.O.U.F’s collaboration “Time” with his Hip-Hop group members Mxnxpxly Family, is a jewel dropper about reclaiming one’s stance personally and professionally. The street track “Pay Attention” is a rulebook in storytelling fashion on how to spot fraudulent people, and a reminder that people close to you are not who they say they are.

M.O.U.F comes with his A-game showing off his versatility and agility, as well as his progression as an artist. He cleverly executes candid, relative lyrics throughout the entire album regardless of the different flows and sounds. The arrangement of beats including futuristic and electric sounds fused with modern urban sounds is sure to satisfy Hip-Hop purists worldwide.

Stream “Move Over U Finished” here, or purchase here

Watch “I Been”, leading single/video off the album, below.

Dumb Ugly release visuals for the first single off their debut album “Casket”, set to release on April 14th, 2019.

“Stay Dead” is a mini film luring viewers into their bizarre, ‘Clockwork Orange’ circus. It begins with an irate man calling an Uber to break free from his alcohol consuming, pregnant lover. He’s picked up by Biz Mighty and they veer off to grab partner in crime, Aayu for an unfathomable voyage. The duo holds the confused man at gunpoint forcing him to inhale unknown substances and once he regurgitates, the madness unfolds.

Biz delivers no filter, gut wrenching punchlines alongside Aayu while massacring scenes like ‘Natural Born Killers.’  The arrangement of aggressive and intense tones amplifies the rawness of “Stay Dead.” Aayu provides a psychedelic intermission of electronic thumping beats mixed with modern Hip-Hop cadences.

Controversial in deliverance, Dumb Ugly trigger thought provoking read between the lines, and caution tape scenarios that occur regularly in communities brimming with corruption and conceit.  Watch “Stay Dead” below.

Follow Dumb Ugly

https://www.instagram.com/dumb.ugly

https://m.facebook.com/pages/category/Musician-Band/Dumb-Ugly-363540290846386/

dumbugly.bigcartel.com

Multifaceted, seasoned artist and NY native Rockwelz, is back with his latest album “Rock Stories.” The 12-track album carries production by Sweden’s own K Sluggah, Vherbal Beats, Clark Make Hits, Nam Nitty, BeatLordz, Gutta Brown Productions, and NY Bangers. Rockwelz also links up with MXNXPXLY members M.O.U.F and John Jigg$ as well as Hip-Hop’s notorious Fred The Godson, and infamous legend the late Prodigy (RIP) for distinctive verses.

The clever lyricist delivers a compilation of records that describes the growth from adolescences to manhood, addressing the trials and tribulations along the way. Through witty wordplay and explosive lyrics, Rockwelz touches on those issues including young teenage boys playing the role as provider, families struggling to survive, being taken down by wannabe ‘mobsters’ and street thugs, chasing money, and even the awkwardness of finding oneself in a world that seems uncertain.

Rockwelz embodies a variety of unique flows from club bangers and gully street tracks to thorough NY style tracks to boom bap classics. Stream “Rock Stories” above and watch the official video for “Lil Man Got Heart” below. 

Follow Rockwelz @Forbesliving

 Twitter  Instagram  Facebook  YouTube  Spotify  MXNXPXLY.COM

Seasoned Australian Hip-Hop artist OptiMystic is back with his latest album, “Salty Waterz.”

OptiMystic rallies up some of the illest legendary emcee’s in Hip-Hop culture including Sticky Fingaz, Fredro Starr & Sonny Seeza (Onyx), M.O.P, Smif-N-Wessun, Rockness Monsta (Heltah Skeltah), Mr Cheeks (Lost Boyz), Cappadonna (Wu-Tang), Afu-Ra, Rampage The Last Boy Scout (Flipmode Squad), Bizzy Bone (Bone Thugs-N-Harmony), Canibus, Chip-Fu (Fu-Schnickens), Wise Intelligent (Poor Righteous Teacher’s), Kali Ranks, U.G. (Cella Dwellas), Mic Handz, Sickflo and countless other pioneers.

The 18-track album is set to go down in Hip-Hop books as the first grown out of the Australian soils reaching out onto a worldwide scale. The quick-witted MC set to create a masterpiece that exudes and embodies the culture and era that’s influenced his lyrical journey. The mastered monstrosity of “Salty Waterz” does just that with its overflow of catchy hooks, clever wordplay, classic storytelling, and explosive verses.

“Salty Waterz” carries production by Australian beat makers Loftwah the BeatSmiff & Rob Shaker (Syllabolix) along with U.G from the states and Endemic Emerald from UK.

Stream “Salty Waterz” above and purchase here.

Follow @Optimystic_MC on Social Media

optimystic-mc.com