A celebrity is a person who has a prominent profile and commands some degree of public fascination and influence in day-to-day media. The term is often synonymous with wealth (commonly denoted as a person with fame and fortune), implied with great popular appeal, prominence in a particular field, and is easily recognized by the general public.
Hey Kanye West, THAT’S YOU! Over time, we’ve seen you climb from the bottom of SEVERAL different public and social totem poles, BANG on your chest once you’ve reached those top platforms and celebrate in various ways because you earned those respectful positions. Musically, you’ve changed the sound, the rhetoric and perspective of what hip-hop was and what it will be when if and when that crumb snatcher of yours decides to make music. Though I’m not a big “Fashion” fella, those envelopes and lines have been pushed and crossed as well. Can’t say I agree with all your “looks” and outfits, but you’re at LEAST bold enough to attempt to venture in a lane that some of your hip-hop cohorts aren’t.
You dropped out of college simply because YOU wanted to show the world it was ok to pursue YOUR dreams and not fall into the trappings of society’s academic/career standards and settings. You thought it was asinine for someone to tell YOU what you had to be when you grew up. YOU were the one that made it ok for people who were confused about so many things in life to express themselves when they felt the need to. And for that, the WORLD gravitated to you and yours.
Now since I haven’t been living under a rock for the past 10 years or so, I’d say these pitfalls, milestones and memorable moments (you have WAY to many of them to name) have made you into the man you are today. Some were great. Some were heartbreaking. Some were absurd. Some were astronomical. Those aren’t the type of things that go unnoticed. The things YOU went through? Many folks would have crashed and burned out. But not Mr. West….Oh no no. Mr. West took adversity, strapped it to his back for the WORLD to see and carried it around like a father with his daughter in the park.
You go left when the world goes right. The sky is blue, but you’re convinced it’s red with Gold lining. Not only do you think these things outloud, but you convey it through your art in such a way that a bunch of us couldn’t fathom it was possible. This isn’t a gas session, sir…just reminding you of a couple things. Follow me.
The influence you have on said society is insane. I think at times, it’s more than you can grasp and/or handle. And at times, it’s a burden to you. But it was you that placed this burden in your lap. You made the great music that summoned the company of other great musicians so they could make even GREATER music with you. You wanted to be the “voice” for said society because the norm was just that, “Normal.” Normal makes you sick, doesn’t it. I can tell.
When your mother died, it was heartbreaking to the world because we KNEW how much you loved that woman. We knew the rock she was in your life. We knew what you told us, but it also seemed like we knew it all. I’m pretty sure we didn’t. I can tell you first hand that if something happened to Mama LowKey? I don’t even want to go there. We celebrated how you overcame that time in your life because you proved to us that in the hardest times, there’s STILL reason to go on.
With that pain, you shined through in your music; AGAIN. You once again proved to your culture AND the world why you are one of the GREATEST artists to ever hit this earth. But again, this is a choice YOU made. The artists that influence you? You’ve SEEN their lifes outside the music. You KNEW the pressure greatness brought in someones life, but you pursued it anyway.
Did you really think breaking barriers and pushing the envelopes that you pushed wouldn’t make you “popular?” Did you really think your accolades wouldn’t get you recognized? Did you really think all these things would go unnoticed and that you would be able to handcraft great music and NO ONE would praise you for it. Hell, I’m not even going to DISCUSS the “negative” shit you’ve gotten yourself into because we might be here all day with that. But let it be CRYSTAL clear, the things people praise YOU for? Are the things you worked hard on so the people WOULD praise you. Because if you’re just making this DOPE shit for yourself and want no recognition? Keep that June 18th shit for yourslef, BREH.
Sidebar: Incase you were wondering why I wrote this lol.
*Maury Povich voice* Kanye West, you ARE a celebrity.
Sincerely,
Low.
In an industry where radio is important AND it isn’t, choosing one of these features could be very crucial for your FIRST official introduction to the game. On one hand, a Sherbert feature could place you directly in front of HIS female fan base along with heavy rotation on urban radio outlets and an assortment of Pop stations too since he’s probably being deemed as the friendlier side of hip-hop. His endorsement deals will probably pay a smidge of attention to who he’s co-signing and judging how well the song does, Drake may even contemplate bringing you into the OVO hut. But with this #NoNewFriends movement, that’s highly unlikely. Though Drake is VERY finicky about who he stands next to in regards to anything so this could be a major statement for said artist OUTSIDE the music.
And then we have Kendrick Lamar, hip-hop’s brightest star at the moment who created 2012′s best piece of rap work. Oh and it was his OFFICIAL debut, just wanted to throw that out there. Aside from that, holding your own with Kendrick Lamar could prove to fans and critics that said artist is ready to lyrically toy around with the greats. Radio play might not be big since Kendrick was never really a HEAVY radio hitter. Even his collaboration with Drake, “Poetic Justice” only peaked at 26 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. His lead single and fan favorite, “Swimming Pools” only caught a #17 slot. However, Kendrick’s presence and influence in the game right now is impeccable. The kid hits EVERY festival stage throughout the world so that could mean surprise performances from said artist.
This is just me spit balling random facts right now BUT I think you can see where I’m going. So with said facts given and your own applied knowledge, if YOU were a new artist and had the ability to put either one one of these guys on your first official single, who would it be? VOTE!
“My baby mom, I mean my girl; I mean my wife won’t even let me watch the game this year.” – Robin Mendeeces Flowers
There are certain events that are part of Americana. Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day amongst others but one day on the calendar unites us all like no other; Super Bowl Sunday. This is the most prominent sports spectacle our country has to offer but this year there’s a twist. A dark, evil, sadistic twist, the kind only someone with the callous ruthlessness of Oprah Winfrey could be behind. Beyonce Gisselle Knowles-Carter, the wife & child bearer of Jay-Z Christ is performing in the much coveted Super Bowl halftime show. I consider this bullshit of the highest order. Valentine’s Day is a mere 11 days after National Men’s Day (Super Bowl Sunday), why can’t these rapscallions just enjoy their holiday? I even wrote V-Day rules last year, same rules apply don’t try to switch up. Seriously, enough is enough it’s time for MEN to take our day back, these rules & regulations for your Super Bowl Party will restore order in your household.
Majority of men on the east coast are rooting for the Baltimore Ravens & the honorable Reverend Ray Lewis. Most men on the west coast are rooting for the San Francisco 49ers & their brash new leader Colin “Dre Smith Jr.” Kaepernick. However, EVERY woman is rooting for “King Bey” (makes me sick to my stomach, next you know they’re going to want to grow penises and beards). I’ve had enough of this bullshit; women have gone as far as to affectionately call the SUPER BOWL, the “Beyonce Bowl”.Adhere to these rules & regulations or tuck your tail and don’t.
1. Establish your dominance early- Do all the food & liquor shopping before your lady fills up the cart with her own list & you end up with carrots, celery & Zima.
2. Set a strict seating chart– What’s worse than getting up to use the bathroom & coming back to a woman in your seat? You look like a bully telling her to get her ass up but feel like a punk watching the biggest game of the year with your hands on your knees like you’re at the free throw line. A seating chart is equivalent to pissing on your tree. Mark your territory or end up in the kitchen with the likes of the single homegirls that have a good job but can’t keep a man. You know the type.
3. Control – The one who possesses the remote control of the television is in control of the entire party. You paid for the TV? You have that remote in your possession at all times. Have to go to the bathroom? Remote in the back pocket. Need to take a smoke break? Remote in the back pocket. It’s yours, you own it.
4. Surround Sound – Too many side convos? Ladies in the back discussing the Destiny Child’s pending reunion? Ringers & ringtones on? Pause the game, stand up& let it be known “SHUT THE FUCK UP, THE MOTHERFUCKIN SUPER BOWL IS ON”
5. Contribute or I shall not distribute – Snoop Doggy Dogg (not Snoop Lion the manicurist) once said “Everybody got they cup but they ain’t chip in” Tell your guests to bring something as an entry fee or tell them go watch the game at Sears.
6. Nobody Cares– Miss Lady that got invited cuz you have no real friends & we’re just meeting you for the first time, NOBODY CARES WHO YOU KNOW ON THE TV. We don’t care if you know a player on the team by his first name or nickname, where y’all went or how many figure fours he put you in. Keep your free-spirit hoe-like indiscretions to yourself boo.
7. Feed me Seymour– No back talk ladies. We ask for a sammich, an adult beverage, some bounty or a mint, just do as we ask. A fed man, is a happy man, a happy man is less likely to tell you to shut your ass up.
8. Intermission –This is imperative. We understand the severity of the halftime show but please do not undermine our entire Super Bowl experience by crowding the television by singing along & with outbursts such as “Get it Bey, yas bitch!” We don’t approve & I promise you as men we will mute the television & turn the estrogen down just as we did to the volume.
9. Post Bey Commentary– Ladies, I promise you we understand that you’re panties will be damp & your nipples erect after witnessing your majesty in all her glory but understand this, we love you but fall back. We refuse to hear you dissecting every angle, leg kick & smile Beyonce flashed on stage. I can hear it now, “Did you see the shade Bey threw Michelle?” or “Bey Bey’s hair was laid for all the gawds” we don’t care, we want football.
10. To be continued –Don’t you women dare think for one cotton-picking second that because “King Bey”strutted her sexy little bronze ass off the stage that you can clock out. There’s still an entire half left in the main event, get your independent ass outta here & into the kitchen and cater to us. Beyonce said so, follow suit.
Ravens- 31 49ers – 23 Beyonce – Infinity
Back towards the latter part of 2009, Timbaland expressed how he was gradually drifting away from hip-hop simply because there were no more folks left from his generation, besides Jay, going hard for the culture. In his words, “It’s just not the same.” He kind of held true to that statement by keeping 10 feet away from hip-hop over the next 2 and a half years. Minor sprinkles off his production were found, though. Production on Jay-s Blueprint 3 LP Drake’s Thank Me Later, Game’s The Hangover mixtape, as well as T.I.’s Fuck Da City Up tape . But nothing substantial enough to gain chart positioning.
But, it’s a new year and it SEEMS like Timbo is getting the “hip-hop itch” again. Towards the latter part of 2012, Timbaland hooked back up with his partner in crime, Missy Elliot for two solid bangers, though they disappeared faster than a Shake Shack burger would if you put it in front of me, “9th Inning” and “Triple Threat.” Then came “The Party Anthem”, an unused collaboration between Timbo, Lil Wayne, T-Pain and Missy Elliot. Not sure about you, but I’ve been bumping that shit non-stop since it dropped the other day. Then it got me to pondering: Who could REALLY fuck that beat up? 2 Chainz came to mind. Drake came to mind. Pusha came to mind.
With that said, I was in the shower this morning, since that’s where a majority of my ideas are born, and thought “I wonder if Timbaland has thought about working with 2 Chainz, yet??” Then I thought, “I wonder what other artists could benefit from a Timbaland beat?” I think you know where I’m going with this. Without further ado, 5 Artists Timbaland Should Collaborate With In 2013. Feel different? Put your selections in that comments section.
1.) 2 Chainz: Two Necklaces was the first person I thought of mainly because of how I superb I think he would sound over “The Party Anthem.” The slow sea saw type flow 2 Chainz sometimes showcases (sort of like what he did on “Murder” from T.R.U. REALigion). Incorporate an unorthodox synthesizer Timbo’s very well-known for using and I THINK we might have a chart topper. I’m not saying Timbo needs to executive produce 2 Chainz’s sophomore project, but I wouldn’t mind Timbaland landing the lead single. Let’s be honest: Where do you go after being added to Kanye’s clique? Right? Right.
Perfect Timbaland Track For 2 Chainz: Missy Elliott’s “Lick Shots”
2.) Kendrick Lamar: This is strictly based off Kendrick’s rapping mechanics. Think back to “Rigamortus” and put that lyrical speed and technique with one of those empty pocket verse Timbaland joints. Just a filthy kick with a infectious melody and a ugly horn sprinkled around it. I wish I could play you the Timbo beat that I’m building in my head but I can’t cause I’m not that talented, but I can assure you you guys would love it. Maybe Timbo’s the missing link to get Kendrick that “radio” smash? Yeah I know he doesn’t really need a “commercial” hit but it would be a lot of fun to hear him on the radio every 25 minutes like you hear 2 Chainz, Trinidad James and Drake. Just a thought.
Perfect Timbaland Track For Kendrick Lamar: Jay-Z’s “Nigga What, Nigga Who.”
3.) Pusha T: It’s a Virginia thing. Personally, I think this should’ve happened during The Clipse days, but that was Pharrell’s baby and you know how folks can get territorial in hip-hop. Timbaland has his happy beats and then he has his dark days. Pusha deserves every damn dark sound Timbaland has in his hard drive. Nothing depressing, but Timbaland serves them “face scruncher” beats like no other and we all know how dark Pusha can get when he puts his mind to it, which is 99.9 percent of the time. Maybe Pusha and Timbo have a hidden gem on his upcoming solo debut. Guess we’ll have to wait and see, huh?
Perfect Timbaland Track For Pusha T: Missy Elliott’s “Hot Boyz”
4.) Miguel: Justin Timberlake was obviously a superstar before Future Sex/Love Sounds came hit the fan, but it was “Cry Me A River” that really brought the blue eyed bandit to OTHER side, sort of? Whatever. Miguel’s is doing quite well for himself with Kaldescope Dream, but just IMAGINE the damage these two could cause together if done right? Seriously, just think. Miguel’s vocal ability is only getting better and better by the minute so what better way to push him to higher levels than to have an LP produced entirely by Timbaland? Since Justin Timberlake is pussy footin’ around, Miguel might as well do it. Fight me if you don’t agree lol.
Perfect Timbaland Track For Miguel: Justin Timberlake’s “Until The End Of Time”
5.) Jhene Aiko: The mixture of Jhene’s oh so light and sweet vocals mashed with the passive aggressive side (soft but thorough drums with a MEAN melody) of a Timbaland production would be cause for a Spring/Summer anthem. Beauty and The Beast is how I would describe their concoction. I know NO I.D. has her under the wing, but if that album isn’t %100 percent complete? Call Mr. Mosely in for a quick session. Trust me on this one.
Perfect Timbaland Track For Jhene Aiko: Aaliyah’s “I Care 4 U”
Not that I hate French Montana or anything because I still go ape shit during “Pop That” and yell “Haaannnnnhh” when a female asks “Nile, are you listening?”, but lord knows I’m tired of these repetitive line-ups. This “Candid Convo” was inspired by French’s latest single “Marble Floors” featuring Rick Ross, Lil Wayne and 2 Chainz (swap 2 Chainz for Drake and we have “Pop That”).
These redundant line-ups are making star studded collaborations a snooze fest. Whether it’s a remix or a lead single, things need to be change and folks need to start experimenting outside their comfort zone a bit more. “Westside, Right On Time” with Kendrick Lamar & Young Jeezy? Unusual! “The Bluff” with Wiz Khalifa & Cam’ron? Unsual! “They Ready” with DJ Khaled, J.Cole, Kendrick Lamar and Big KRIT? Unsual! Rihanna and Future? Unsual! You see what I’m getting at? Ok good. With that said, I took the liberty in pondering some of my OWN collaborations that would seem pretty “Unusual” if they were ever to see the light of day. Check em out!
Future & Beyonce: Fix your face, fool because this shit JUST might happen in 2013. If you’ve been paying attention, Future’s country ass has been making his way up that R&B ladder quite swiftly over the past several months: Kelly Rowland, Rihanna & Ciara. I could laugh in your face if you think he doesn’t have his eyes set on Beyonce. Or even better; Beyonce studying Future’s moves AND mixtapes. Beyonce’s done ALL she has to do as an R&B artist throughout her career, I can assure you she’s ready to get ratchet and have some fun. Beyonce probably caught Blue Ivy bouncing around to “Tony Montana” and it clicked right then and there.
Producer Pick: Noah “40″ Shebib & Mike Will Made It
Kanye West & Fun.: This is solely based on the fact that Jeff Bhasker’s production on 808′s and MBDTF oozzes through Fun.’s sophomore set, Some Nights. If you’re a fan of Fun. you should understand the predicted synergy between Ye and the trio. would make perfect sense: self reflecting tunes with potent production that can either make you down a bottle of Jack Daniels or scream “Fuck YOU” to everyone in your path with an infectious smile. Out of the five? This is my personal favorite and I PRAY it happens.
Producer Pick: Jeff Bhasker & No I.D.
Kendrick Lamar & Pusha T: Bars on bars on bars on motherfucking bars. Nope, I’m not looking for Billboard 100 placement. I’m not looking for Club Couch Anthem of the Year. I’m looking for disrespectful raps to the niggas who THINK they can rap. Sometimes you wake up and say “Man, I just want to hear some fucking BARS.” And while there’s a lot of that out there, there’s key people who you want on the SAME record together doing what they do best. Look me in the face and tell me you wouldn’t be the LEAST bit interested in seeing how this would end up? LOOK AT ME KING!!!
Producer Pick: Just Blaze
Drake & Joe Budden: Talk about emo central. Well, my ass isn’t the one to talk with all my late night #CrushTips and shit lol. I digress. These two fellas have flexed their muscle on both sides of the coin very well. But could it work together? Joe and Sherbert have this knack for saying EXACTLY what us males have a hard time saying to the opposite sex. And though some of us might not like to admit because of their off-court antics (not getting into that right now lol), it would be a gift to both fan bases. The scary thing is, these two could make more than one type of record together: Mixtape, Radio and/or Club. Who wouldn’t want that?
Producer Pick: T-Minus & Cardiak
Lil Wayne & Nas: Someone needs to kick Weezy in the ass and Nas might be the one to do it. Creatively, and before Life Is Good, some could argue Nas lost a step or two. But LIG put those notions to sleep quick fast and in a hurry. In my eyes? Nas, and I say this with love, is lazy as fuck. Not sure what got into the Queensbridge poet (Kelis’ money hungry ass probably) lately but he’s got his mojo back. As for Wayne? Skateboarding looks like it’s become his first love from here on out. And with him declaring The Carter V as his last album, we’d like to see him LYRICALLY go out on top. It’s OBVIOUS he doesn’t need to prove anything to anyone given his successful track record but going out on top is what we’d like to see happen for him. Jay woke Nas the fuck up with “Takeover” so I guess that needs to happen to Wayne? What better artist to guide him through a situation like that than Nas? Wishful thinking on this side of town, though.
Producer Pick: J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League & Salaam Remi
Who wouldn’t want to be on a Boeing 777 airplane following one of music’s biggest stars around a 7 COUNTRY tour in support of her forthcoming project, Unapologetic with a bevy of different media outlets and fans throughout the country, right? Well apparently that notion has swiftly departed from the folks attending this one of a kind “tour.”
Nowadays, artists are ALWAYS thinking of different and intriguing ways to not only satisfy their core fan base but also wrangle in a shitload more without straying too far away from home. It’s a gift and a curse that can often backfire on said artist: this could be one of those instances.
The #777Tour kicked off last Wednesday in Mexico City lugging around 150 journalists from 82 countries and close to 50 fans to which none of them might never experience something like this again. The excitement, confusion and “Fuck it, whatever happens happens” aura was probably swaying through the cabin at light speed so everything was probably all fine and dandy. But as the week progressed, from the Tweets of the journalists and bloggers on board, confusion was looming and the tour life they were hoping to get a glimpse inside of was one of another.
Complaints of RiRi not being around surfaced. Complaints of being unsure of what was really going on before and after the shows were surfacing and complaints of fatigue were becoming more and more visible (though none of these folks are trained to travel and perform as Rihanna is).
Then? Shit got authentic. First, it was the Paris stop to which Jeff from Rolling Stone described that the idea was “cunning”, but in a way poorly executed on Rihanna’s part due to her absence throughout. Then it was the “streaking” incident in which chaos commenced on the flight from Berlin to London (sidebar: shit has to be STRESSFUL if you’re streaking on a Boeing 777 with Rihanna tucked somewhere on the same flight lol).
So here we are; deciding whether or not Team Rihanna made a genius move or a HUGE mistake that is currently biting her in the ass. I pose this question simply based on the fact that the chatter from folks on the flight haven’t really said much about the album, no? Maybe I’m missing a story or two, but for the past week it’s #777Tour talk via Twitter and your favorite entertainment sites, in a negative light to say the least. Hell, the @RihannaPlane handle has even popped up on Twitter. And lord knows accounts like these can turn a situation Sam Cassell (Google him if you’re not sure who he is lol).
Maybe waiting a week AFTER the album dropped this could’ve been genius idea? Who on that flight, aside from the obvious, is actually BUILT for “that” life? Of course any press is good press, but when you’re being held “captive” while reporting then the story lines change drastically: case in POINT. Personally? I’m more worried about Rihanna’s reaction to the honest memories of the #777Tour goers. Shorty doesn’t bite her tongue for a soul on God’ green’s earth and I’m sure THIS will be no differnt.
Oh, Rihanna’s Unapologetic is in stores today.
Hip-hop is taking corporate thugging to a new level these days. Last week news surfaced that Young Jeezy is slated to be occupy the Senior VP Of A&R position over at Atlantic Records. Shocked? Yes, you damn right we were. Not because we don’t think he’s capable, but for the simple fact that he’s still VERY active in making music AND is still sitting pretty over at Def Jam Records. Many questioned the surprise move stating the Snowman hasn’t REALLY broken any artist that have attained mainstream success (the verdict is still out on Freddie Gibbs who is currently making a lot of noise underground.)
When you think of A&R, you think dot connector pretty much. Someone who has an ear for impeccable talent in regards to all facets of the music industry. The A&R’s main objective is not to match their artists with the best and biggest producer, songwriter and/or artist, but to match them with the key characters that can bring the best out of THEIR artist. Connecting sounds, ideas, theories and all that fun stuff that goes into make a QUALITY product and not just a hit record.
Over the weekend I pondered on the current and active artists today in regards of who in the hell could occupy an A&R seat at these major labels. I did a lot of back and forth with myself, which was fun to be quite honest and came up with these five artists. You may agree, you may not but that’s why I call this a candid conversation so you can supply your input in the comments section below. Ok, ready? Let’s get to it.
Rick Ross: The man has the GOLDEN touch. You would’ve thought this big breasted man was an A&R in his past life they way he’s connected dots for himself, Wale, Meek Mill and now even Omarion. Not that he ushered a new sound in with his beat selection but the Miami native made it clear that he’s not only one of the leaders of the game but a student of the studio as well. However, I won’t sit here and lie to you: I was slightly disappointed with GFID. Not that it wasn’t good, but sound wise, aside from the two JUSTICE League contributions, I expected more. But, I can assure you Meek’s debut project will have that GOLDEN touch written ALL over it.
Drake: Despite his creeptified obsession with Aaliyah, Aubrey can make a hit. And whoever he allows in the studio with him to create will damn sure come out with one as well. Not only is the kid a prolific songwriter (see Alicia Keys “Unthinkable”) but the Toronto Titan has been very adamant in keeping a tight circle of producers within his reach like his go to guys Noah “40″ Shebib”, T-Minus and Boi-1da. The kid also can spot a hit tune a mile away as well. Take “Tony Montana” by Future. Couldn’t stand that shit and Mr. Graham turned it into a nationwide hit, no? And not for nothing, whether you like it or not, Sherbert is probably going to make that Aaliyah album sound as if she was alive and well today. But that’s just my opinion.
Kanye West: Common? Big Sean? Pusha T? Hell, even Jay-Z? Who can’t this fella push the envelope with. Mr. West has a knack for bringing diverse worlds together and making them sound like they were born that way. More notably, he does it even better for HIMSELF. You look at the progression from College Drop Out (Plain Pat, Whad up?) to Watch The Throne (even though that was a joint album), you ask yourself : is that the SAME person from 2004 with the SAME ear? Hell no. Hell YES! Elevating his sound to the point of no return. And just when you think it can’t get any better? Mr. West denounces that gesture and takes you a step higher. And even if you’re NOT under his wing, he STILL gives you the juice to make it do what it do (see Chief Keef). Not that Common was dead in the water back in the early 2000′s, but when Yeezy came along in 2005 executive producing BE followed by Finding Forever? Well, you get my drift. Lord only knows what he’s going to do with Pusha T.
Kendrick Lamar: I know it’s early and the kid has yet to put out a major debut project, but boy his sound is SHARP. Section 80, a project deemed better than some of your favorite artists BEST projects highlighted a gritty sound that wasn’t really the “thing to do” last year. Especially with the “Trap Rap” sound taking hold of our ears at every second. Not only is HIS material flourishing to new heights, the entire TDE family, which I’m SURE he offers his creative ideas when necessary, have followed in his foot steps in cultivating their own signature sounds. In his recent cover story in the 2012 September issue of XXL Magazine, the Compton comrade revealed good kidd, mAAd city will sound NOTHING like Section 80. Let that marinate for a minute.
Beyonce : Being married to one of the greatest to ever do it probably has some perks. But don’t get it twisted, Queen Bee has been putting on for R&B for quite some time now, no? Dangerously In Love, Beyonce’s solo introduction to the world not only showcased and highlighted her vocal abilities, but showed her diverse ear in production. B’Day brought on a more urban feel captivating and old soulful sound while still keeping up with her peer whilst shitting on them in the same breath. I Am….Sasah Fierce an 4, to me, was a dangerous meshing of the those first two projects with an international feel that raised a lot of eyebrows in R&B. A lot of worried eyebrows at that because of how YOUNG she was and is. And the fact that she’s only FOUR albums deep. Now….take ALL of that and let her craft a project for an artist of her own and tell me she can’t A&R a project.
Ok ladies and gents, those are my 5 artists who I think could serve as successful A&R’s in today’s game. Don’t agree, which some of you might not, slide into that comments section and get to typing. Hope you guys enjoyed my thoughts!
In exactly one month, MetLife Stadium will be FILLED to the brim, pending on Mother Nature’s mood swings, with rap advocates, ratchet heffars, hip-hop hippies, goons, gobblins and everything in between for Hot 97′s annual Summer Jam concert. Deemed as the Superbowl of hip-hop shows, Summer Jam usually is the kick off to the hip-hop summer. Moments are made, spots are blown and beefs are ignited. But one thing that’s never redundant when it comes to Summer Jam is the headliner.
If you’re a faithful attendee of Summer Jam, ONE of the main questions asked after the show is “Who will headline next year?” Well, today’s that day. At 4pm, The Voice of NY, Angie Martinez will announce the line up for this years festivities. I’m not going to rundown who I think will perform because if I list them and if it’s slightly accurate to their list? I’ll be accused of “leaking” information EVEN THOUGH I HAVE NO IDEA WHO IS PERFORMING lol. So we’re going to skip that discussion and go straight to the headliner.
Now headlining Summer Jam is a pretty fun task to have. You’re the head honcho. Numero Uno. Big Cheese. That NIGGA and/or NIGGLETTE. Ok, I’ll stop. But you get my drift right? Your set could be extremely memorable or a complete disaster. With that, you have to plan your set list accordingly AND your guest features as well. Questions the headliner must ask themselves: 1.) Who’s hot at the moment? 2.) Who’s in town right now? 3.) Who owes me a favor? 4.) Who has an album coming out? 5.) Who’s my favorite NYC artist? These questions must be asked and answered before hitting that stage June 3rd.
Ok, so before Ms Martinez reveals what we’re all wondering, I thought it would be pretty damn fun to let go a list of possibilities for this years headliners. Again, I have no insider information ok? This is just my brain speaking out loud and sparking a fun discussion before the actual headliner is revealed. Ready? Here we GO!
Maybach Music Group (RicK Ross, Wale, Meek Mill, Omarion, Stalley): I could see this happening easily. Yesterday the MMG gang announced a flurry of release dates as well as an addition to the team, Omarion (I’m not calling him Maybach O). Self Made Vol. 2 is dropping June 26, God Forgives, I Don’t drops July 31st, and Meek’s debut project drops August 28th. Summer Jam would be the perfect stage to really kick off promo for ALL these projects. They have the momentum, they have the ammunition (singles, freestyles, collabos) and they have the man power to do so.
YMCMB (Birdman, Drake, Tyga, Nicki Minaj & Lil Wayne): I’m saying them as a collective because in someway, these 5 have impacted hip-hop in someway this year. While I could see Drake standing alone to be honest, I think it would be a better set to see them rock as a team. Only thing is it knocks out room for surprise guests. And to be honest, the guests they could bring to the stage will probably already have performed earlier that evening anyway. I mean, Drake did bring out Stevie Wonder and Nas during his OVO Fest so you never know. And that brings me to my next selection….
Nas: I’m not SURE if Nas’ momentum is strong enough to headline Summer Jam, but the name OVERALL carries a shitload of weight. The steam he’s accumulated over the past couple weeks might lead into more momentum this month. Though Life Is Good doesn’t drop til July 17th, he’s still has plenty of room to drop remixes, another single in the next month. This might be the most unlikeliest of options, but it would be dope to see the Queens native rock as a headliner. Just don’t forget your lines, Nasir!
Rihanna: Oh the ratchtedness of THIS option. Imagine her fine ass walking out on stage smoking a HUGE ass joint. I don’t know what in the hell has gotten into her lately *cough lean cough* but lord have mercy. She’s got the records to rock a 25 minute set as the headliner and I’m SURE NYC wouldn’t mind her bringing out Chris Brown for that “Cake” remix. Imagine the headlines after THAT the next morning. She would need a little bit of help though seeing how this is hip-hop dominated show. We’ll see.
2 Chainz: I want this one to happen. After seeing the stunt he pulled during our SOBs show at SXSW in Austin, Texas? Anything is possible when it comes to Two Necklaces. The ATL native has appeared on a FLURRY of records in the past year and a half so pulling guests onstage would be a walk in a park. Question is, WHICH guest is WORTH pulling onstage for the Superbowl of hip-hop shows? T.I.? Ross? Drake? Kanye? Nicki? Lil Wayne? Yeah, HOT 97, I think we have our winner.
The Throne: I know, I know they’ll be in Paris the first weekend in June. *Looks up tour dates* HOLD UP!!! HOLD THE FUCK UP! About a month ago, Ye and Jay were booked for a Sunday show in Paris. No, I swear to GOD they were. But according to THIS? They now only have shows on June 1s and June 2nd then a WEEK off. Ohhhhhhhhhhhhh shit, Summer Jam 2012 just got authentic ladies and gents! Could you imagine Jay and Ye popping up at this bitch? FUCK YOU IF YOU’RE NOT EXCITED for the possibility of this. It would be a PERFECT set up for Ye’s G.O.O.D. Music project which is slated to drop this Spring/Summer season! Imagine hearing “Mercy” AND “Theraflu” on THOSE type of speakers? And let’s not forget Mr. Carter is constructing a solo LP as we speak. Oh and then we have Beyonce who’s actually performing the weekend before in Atlantic City so she’ll be in her performance groove as well. Ah MAN!
Ok, ok, ok, ok, ok, OK! Those are my selections for headlining act to this year’s Summer Jam concert going down on June 3rd at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. I’ll definitely be in the building drunk off of Nutcracker’s (shouts to my Harlem connect) like last year. I hope you don’t miss out on this shit. Didn’t get your tickets yet? Slide over here while you can! Let me know who YOU think will headline this year’s show!
By now I’m sure we’ve all heard about the MMG Press conference in NYC at 1pm at an un-disclosed location on May 2nd. The rumblings of signings, alliances and everything in between has been passed through tastemakers, DJs, personalities, bloggers and fans’ circles since the discovery but no one can REALLY pinpoint what in fact Rozay and his team have planned.
We do know, HOWEVER, that Rozay has ONE album left on Def Jam, right? Right. We also know Meek Mill is prepping the release of his debut project later this summer, right? Right. We’re also aware that Self Made Vol. II is being constructed as we speak with the lead single “Bag Of Money” featuring Wale, Meek, Ross and T-Pain (currently on sale over at iTunes), right? Right. And finally, Joey IE, who helped bring Rozay and his team OVER to Warner Bros Records around this time last year, is slated to begin his Def Jam presidential term on June 1st, right? Right. All these facts are interesting components to factor in to Wednesday’s announcement(s).
Since I love sharing my industry ideas, thoughts, theories and brain farts on here and Twitter, I figured today, about 48 hours before the conference, would be a good time to spark a mini discussion on the issue at hand. And let’s be honest, tomorrow could be as small as a piece of white rice or as big as Wendy Williams. Fact of the matter is, it’s going to be an event. So, let’s run down some options of WHAT in fact Rozay might spring on us, shall we?
Mase Signs With Maybach Music Group: This might be the top option of them all. With a couple Instagram posts and Mase popping up on Wale’s infectious “Slight Work” remix with Diddy and French Montana, this could be the first sling shot into the industry’s gut. And while it’s not a bad move for Murda, Rozay might want to check Mase’s track record with these recent false starts in the past 5 years. Creatively, it doesn’t sound like Mase has lost a step and to be honest, I think the balance of Mase as a whole could fit well with the MMG camp. But like I stated before, If GOD calls on Ma$e one more time? He needs to stay out for good. I wonder if Ross is ready to take that gamble.
Rick Ross & Maybach Music Group Ink Joint Venture With Def Jam: This wouldn’t surprise me. And though the two empires released one MMG joint project Custom Cars & Cycles back in October of 2009, the climate of the MMG empire has changed drastically to the point the crew is now a house hold name throughout the country. The leverage being thrown around by MMG is pretty impeccable. Various streams of revenue coming from all ends of the crew.
Rick Ross Signs Solo Deal With Cash Money Records: Despite his bus being torched, Khaled’s on fire when it comes to recruiting talent. And with HIS new situation with Cash Money THIS option doesn’t seemed far fetched at ALL. I mean Khaled DID open the world’s eyes to Rick Ross so why wouldn’t he bring him along for the ride? Birdman is on a signing spree. A calculated signing spree to the point it could possibly be a viable option for the Miami MC. But what does that do for his team? To many hands in the pot for Wale, Meek and Stalley? This just might be a look for Ross himself but deep down could get messy.
Meek Mill, Wale & Stalley Sign Solo Deals With Def Jam Records: It’s almost a duplicate move to Ye’s G.O.O.D. Music team. Big Sean was signed to Ye first and then snatched the Def Jam deal. Pusha T got under Ye’s swing then snatched the Def Jam deal. Will we see the same thing happen to Wale and Meek Mill? Will Wale side step his a third LP with WB and take his chips over to IDJ? Meek? One of those hottest spitters in the streets? If he had the option to swing over and polly with Lenny S to A&R his debut project, do you think he would turn that down? Again, these are all just thoughts in MY mind.
Like I said, these are just MY thoughts. I have no INSIDE scoop on what’s going to transpire tomorrow, I’m in the dark like all of you. Regardless, Wednesday will most likely be memorable. Self Made Vol II, Dream Chasers II, God Forgives, I Don’t all are arriving before the end of the Summer more than likely and THIS press conference is the kick off to all of that. After I attend the press conference, I’ll report back to these pages with my thoughts on what went down. Of course I’ll be Twittering about it, but I’ll get more in depth on here!
Ok, Bye!
Lmao! Kid Fury and his drunk vlogs. The Miami native has decided to nominate RiRi the President of his Not Many Fucks Coalition. Ahhh, perfect way to start off your NOT GIVING A FUCK MONDAYS!
RESPECT: KidFury
