Diggin’ In The Crates Crew (D.I.T.C.) members OC and AG stopped by Fat Beats NYC on Dec. 8 to promote their first album together titled “Oasis.” D.I.T.C. is a group of New York based emcees and producers who gained the respect from the hip hop community for their hardcore lyrics and classic boom-bap beats since their start in the early nineties. The latest release from the crew features other members such as Showbiz and Lord Finesse on production duties providing perfect beats to complement Omar and Andre The Giant’s gritty rhymes. It should also be noted that E Blaze takes care of the majority of the production nicely. If it’s real hip hop you’re looking for, OC and AG deliver with street swagger and passion for the art form. Some of my favorite tracks: Give It Back, Keep It Going and Two For The Money. Their signing at Fat Beats was a fun time for all. They were more than happy to sign posters, records and pose for pics. DJ Premier stopped by (pictured below with OC) and 950 Plus posed with AG (photo above).
-chocko

So last Thursday, my already insane event got even more insane when I wound up winning tickets to see Rakim @ BB Kings. Big shout out to Audible Doctor of the Brown Bag All Stars/Fat Beats crew for hooking me up! Got to BB Kings around 10:30pm after making my other rounds for the evening…unfortunately, I missed Rhymefest, who was the opening act =/ I was happy to run into my brothers from another mother, Mike & Patrick, as well as my photog homie Natty Night (stillonvinyl.blogspot.com). Many thanks to R.H. Bless for being my concert buddy for the evening! Shouts to Zulu Jeff (who was wearing a SUIT!), Kool Herc, Photo Rob, Sav Killz and K. Salaam who were all in attendance…

Rakim had on his comedic/player hats on that night, catering to both the fellas and the ladies – a true entertainer! He even cut up the turntables in a brief exhibition of his budding DJ skills – a rare treat! Go cop that new album, “Seventh Seal”!

Just wanted to share a few photos with you from the evening…Enjoy.

Kool Herc and R.H. Bless

Zulu Jeff looking oh so dapper in a suit!

My little bros Mike & Pat were a pleasant surprise

Kool Herc on stage while Technician the DJ spun tracks for the crowd

Rakim!

Yeah…THAT guy? He’s a legend…

Rakim showing love to Kool Herc after his set

Rakim showing love to the crowd… he stayed to sign autographs afterwards as well!

• via highwaterISmusic •

Here’s a vid of Daniel Joseph’s release party
at Fat Beats NYC. Dude has a nice flow, and many of his
lyrics are cryptic. Cryptic lyrics are good.
Enjoy.

∆

Come check out the kid do what he does best in front of  a well respected Underground crowd, and of course, I get by with a little help from my friends.

http://www.discogs.com/B-One-How-We-Live-Built-Like-That/release/1709747

Label: Fat Beats
Catalog#: BEN 09-1
Format: Vinyl, 12″, 33 ⅓ RPM
Country: US
Released: 2000
Genre: Hip Hop
Style:
Tracklist:

A1 How We Live (Clean)
A2 How We Live (Dirty)
A3 How We Live (Instrumental)
B1 Built Like That (Clean)
B2 Built Like That (Dirty)
B3 Built Like That (Instrumental)

http://www.mediafire.com/?amtazgyy2ld

DJ Rhettmatic of the Beat Junkies and
Buff1 of the Athletic Mic League
have joined forces to create a hip-hop monster
for all of our enjoyment and appreciation.
That benevolent monster is called Crown Royale.
This Q&A features the production half of the duo,
DJ Rhettmatic.

“Get It Up” • Download

∆: How did you and Buff1 meet?

“Basically, I met Buff thru the guys from Now On. They’re all from Ann Arbor, Michigan and ironically, they’re also from the Athletic Mic League. Now On moved to LA a few years ago and I would start running into them at a couple of events and whatnot. Buff would come out to LA and they would introduce him to me and that’s how we met.”

∆: When and under what circumstances
did the idea of Crown Royale form?

“Well, the idea of Buff and myself of working together came from the 2/3 of Now On: Jackson Perry and Dj Haircut aka Mayer Hawthorne. Around that time, Buff just dropped his 1st solo album and they were asking him what’s his next move. And at that same time I was starting to branch off doing production outside of my other group, The Visionaries.

A lot of people knew me more as Battle Dj/Turntablist and not for my production, though I have been doing some production for quite sometime. I actually gave a beat cd to Now On to do some work. Next thing I knew, Jackson and Haircut came up to me and said ‘we would like you to do an album with Buff’. I believe they did the same thing with Buff. He said ‘if I like the beats, I’ll do it’. He already got an in house production team with the Lab Techs: 14KT, Haircut, Vaughn T, etc… so he was spoiled. And those guys got slaps. I knew it was a go when he sent me the first song recorded and done. Luckily he liked my beats, LOL.”

∆: How early was “Get It Up” done?

“Late last year, and that was actually the first song. He recorded the vocals
first in Michigan, then we redid it when he came back to LA.”

∆: How did you guys come up with the name?

“It’s actually a funny story. At the time, we didn’t have a name for the project or group. During that same time, Magestik Legend, another dope MC/Producer from Detroit, wanted to do a group project with Buff. On Buff’s 1st album,
Buff would always wear a crown so Magestik wanted to name the group
‘Crown Royale’. Ironically, I was brainstorming myself with names and all
and I also came up with the name Crown Royale, and literally called Buff
the week after Magestik shot him the idea. And I didnt know that Magestik
hit him up for the idea. I was a fan of Magestik’s work but I never met him in
person, so it was crazy when Buff told me what Magestik approached him with.

Then later on, like 2 months later, Magestik goes to LA. We all met up at Fat Beats LA and during an instore Buff introduced me to Magestik. I really wanted to name the project or group Crown Royale, so we all had a pow wow with Magestik. By the grace of God (and us doing a lot convincing), Magestik was kind enough to let us use the name and in return, we have him on our album. And that’s how the name Crown Royale came about.”

∆: Wooow, lol. Being that Crown Royale is a duo,
what is one of your favorite hip-hop duos and why?

“Mine is GangStarr…..Buff’s is Outkast. But also, I love EPMD, Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, Run-DMC, Low Profile… I don’t know, we can go on forever. You would have to also ask Buff that question, but i do know his favorite group is Outkast.”

∆: What’s a particular reason you can say about GangStarr?

“It’s easy. The DJ and the MC combo, Guru and Preemo. They’re a perfect example of a classic hip-hop group. Preemo is one of my fav top producers, as well as a DJ.”

∆: What are some artists and songs you’ve produced
that the masses need to be aware of?

“Hmmmmm…….. let’s see….. Divine Styler ‘Triple Irons’ (WordPower 2), Aceyalone ‘Keep Rappin Keep Spinnin’, Aloe Blacc ‘Find A Way’ (B Ball Zombie War comp – Stones Throw)… I’m trying to think… RBX ‘Stop That’. Pigeon John ‘Freaks Freaks’. A lot of stuff are like b-sides and album cuts, I wouldnt say obscure but you would have to know the artists. But I worked with alot of cats that people know. I have alot of stuff that hasnt come out officially yet or it’s in the vault. Let me see…Trek Life ‘All Times’ (Price I’ve Paid)”

∆: Did you produce “E=MC5″ (Key Kool & Rhettmatic
feat. LMNO, Ras Kass, Meen Green & Vooodu)?

“Yeah, that was my 1st official record.”

∆: That was my shxt.

“Word? Thanks. I did that on the SP1200.”

∆: Word. From producing songs for artists to producing a full album,
what is your approach? In particular, your approach for producing a full album.

“Hmmm…that’s a good question. In terms of producing an album, I would try my best to make the album flow from beginning to end. Make it interesting like a good mixtape. Try to make it have sometype of continuity. I would put it together like i was putting a mix routine together. It has to make sense. And in terms of the beats, it varies. When i give a beat to an artist, I either would have an idea or concept or I would just let the artist dictate what he or she wants to write, whatever emotion the beat elicits from that artist. And when it comes to adding scratches, I either ask the artist whats the title or the concept of the song, and I would go base it off of that idea. Unless the artist have something in mind, then that makes it a lil bit easier.

Btw… all you rappers out there that think it’s easy to put a scratch hook together… no, it isn’t. That takes time. Diggin for records, listening to records, writing down phrases, then working on putting it together, then tryin to record the scratches until we get it right. Djs/producers are very meticulous. Just like for emcees that want to get the best take and their best rhymes out there. Us dj/producers are the same, for the most part. I just wanted to add that….LOL.”

∆: Word! What’s on the horizon from DJ Rhettmatic?

“Hmmmmm…..It seems I got alot on my plate now. Well, of course,
the Crown Royale debut album on Myx Music Label in early 2010.
I also have another project that I do with Eric Bobo of Cypress Hill.
It’s a DJ/Percussion combo. I actually finished an ep with Frank Nitty
(Frank N Dank). I’m doing a producers’ album with J-Rawls
of Lone Catalysts. I got a 10″ single that I did with MED
that The Do-Over is putting out in 2010.”

∆: When you say a “producer’s album”, what do you mean?

“J-Rawls and myself will be doing production together and we will be having artists on the album rocking over the instrumentals that we produced. We already have a song with Trek Life & Kam Moye aka Supastition, Renee Neufville from Zhane.”

∆: Damn, dope.

“Yeah, it’s been an off and on project. We recorded already 5 songs,
we just haven’t had the time to work on it. And of course my work with
the Beat Junkies. Beat Junkie Radio, our NIGHTLIFE events… and maybe, one day, a group album (which we’ve been saying for the last 10 years….LMAO!). Mix cds…etc.”

Massive Thanks To DJ Rhettmatic For Participating In The Q&A!
Be sure to check out Part 2 tomorrow with Buff1!
Big Up!

∆

This is one of my favorite videos. Exile gets down.

Hostage Media takes you behind-the-scenes of Skyzoo’s Fat Beats In-Store for his new album, THE SALVATION, in stores now. Watch interviews with 9th Wonder, Sean Price, Young Guru, Torae and more.

Hope you’ve recouped from the Halloween madness that went down this weekend! I was Michelle Obama (cardigan over the belt and all), but alas, no one took any photos of me =(

Got some goodies for you guys this week! Peep game:

Tuesday, 11.3.09

It’s Election Day, so that means time to vote! In NYC, we’re voting for mayor: Bloomberg or Thompson? How about Pac Div? I’d vote for these guys anyday! Saw them perform @ the Brooklyn Bodega CMJ showcase a couple of weeks ago – packed crowd, everyone knew their lyrics, and I was doing The Mayor on the couch. Pics coming soon, but check out their video for the joint:

Tomorrow night, come out to Fat Beats and celebrate the release of “Pretty/Ugly” with Daniel Joseph:

Afterwards, head on over to Moomia Lounge to check out RIPMC as he releases his brand new single! Oh, and did I mention the poppin’ party? Free b4 midnight!

Wednesday, 11.4.09

I love shows with a purpose… please support a noble cause benefitting the youth.

“(Bigger Than) Hip Hop Project is a nonprofit afterschool program for middle school students based on all elements of hip hop whose mission is to help reduce drop out rates and gang involvement by incorporating leadership development, positive mentorship, intergenerational learning, and community outreach with an outlet and opportunity for students to express and improve upon their interests and talents.”

Thursday, 11.5.09

Ladies! I think Thursday is all about us…

Start things off with the 9th edition of Femme Fatale Jam Sessions, hosted by Kalae All Day (recent winner of the Show & Prove competition put on by Brooklyn Bodega!)… Enjoy vegan goodies, girl talk and performances by a slew of talented ladies! RSVP at Kalaeallday@gmail.com for the secret location. Sorry gents… this one’s ladies only!

I missed the first “She’s So Fresh” Showcase back in August, so I’m gonna try my best to come out for this one. More than just a once-in-a-blue-moon all-female showcase, “She’s So Fresh” is an on-going thing, bringing talented ladies to the forefront!

Afterwards, walk over a few blocks to White Rabbit for the bi-weekly “Ill Banger Thursdaze” party! This time we’re celebrating the launch of FRSHPulp.com, as well as the release of the new Good Wood collection! Free all night…not to be missed!

Friday, 11.6.09

Come out to Santos to check out Chris Faust (formerly known as Print of Good Day Good Night) in a rare performance! I’m such a fan…

Chris Faust Live @

Saturday, 11.7.09

I’m making the trip to Newark, NJ to help Daniel Joseph continue the “Pretty/Ugly” release festivities. This party is also a fundraiser, so bring canned food or a warm coat for reduced entry; $10 without a donation.

Sunday, 11.8.09

This Sunday, EOW (End of the Weak) will be hosting the MTP (Meet the Producers) Beat Battle @ Pyramid for the first time. Producers, come out and compete for a cash prize, or just get inspired by your peers. Don’t forget to network, network, network!

Huge thanks to Globalken from UPN for opening me up to this incredible group. Emcee Sick & Tone Atlas make up the Buffalo reppin’ Pseudo Slang who are signed to Fat Beats out of Brooklyn, NY. I’m extremely impressed with the kind of hip-hop this group is delivering to the public, its fresh and upbeat plus their jazz/soul inspired production is jaw-dropping. They’ve received rave reviews from all-around the hip-hop community so maybe you should take a minute out of your day & swing by their Myspace. While you’re there, check out the joint Bedouin, I’ve had it on repeat ever since. Their latest effort, We’ll Keep Looking, is currently in stores & can be ordered via Fat Beats

Just to give you all the heads up, Pseudo Slang are in the midst of a 50-date tour with a stop in Montreal on November 20th (venue TBA). Ill most probably be attending this event and I recommend all you hip-hop heads in the city do the same. Here’s a clip from their performance at the Walnut Room in Denver, Co.

Stones Throw Records announcing a 2nd Madvillain album for 2010 + J Rocc spinning snippets of the new tracks = Best news of the week

Daniel Joseph (of Bullymouth and Elite Assembly fame) is getting ready to drop his album “Pretty/Ugly” on Nov. 3rd! To celebrate, he’s got a couple of special treats in store. First up is an in-store at Fat Beats on Tuesday, Nov. 3rd. Come meet Daniel Joseph and get a copy of his album, get it signed, take pictures…all that fan/supporter stuff. LOL

Then on Saturday, Nov. 7th, head over to the Seed Gallery in Mr. Joseph’s hometown of Newark, NJ for the “Pretty/Ugly” release party & food/clothing drive! Nothing like partying with a cause. Bring canned food and/or a coat for reduced entry! With performances by Mr. Len, Bullymouth, St. Joe Louis, Pardon the Stranger, Brokn.Englsh & more, you better believe I’ll be on that PATH train to Jerz for this one…

Goes into cardiac arrest…

This is gong to be a real dope event! Oct 22 09 @ BB Kings 232 W 42nd St. NYC.

Album Release Party @
Fat Beats LA for producer
Aspect One’s new full-length
Vibe.Ready.
∆

Ah, where was I? Oh, yes.
Shawn Carter is nice but Sean Price is the best 

Let’s keep it goin’, shall we?

If you aren’t anticipating Sean Price’s new mix CD Kimbo Price, then I don’t think I can help you. Maybe his new track will. ”Figure Four” is fully-packed with his signature rawness and ruthless bravado – defined byMerriam-Webster as “a blustering swaggering conduct.” That, my good people, is the only allowable use of “swagger” or any of its derivatives on my site.

Here’s the scoop on the disc from the press release:

We have seen that Sean Price is a multifaceted individual. With the start up of his newly formed label, RUCK DOWN RECORDS, Sean Price still finds the necessary time to record and promote his own albums. KIMBO PRICE, the prelude to his next national album, MIC TYSON (2010), is a 23 track mix cd that brings the listeners into the world of Sean Price that we love so much. If you know Sean Price in some capacity, you probably got dissed on this album. The rapper goes so far as to say he doesn’t even like himself!

Be on the look out for new Sean Price videos off KIMBO PRICE tracks and stay tuned for exclusive music from Sean Price’s new super group, RANDOM AXE comprised of Sean Price, Guilty Simpson and Black Milk.
 
Catch Sean Price at a Fat Beats In-Store signing for his new mix cd on October 23rd from 6PM – 9PM and the following evening for a live performance at Duck Down’s CMJ Showcase at Gramercy Theater. Tickets for the event are now on sale through Gramercy’s Site via Live Nation: http://bit.ly/3cNUSj

Whew! Now are you amped? Don’t make me report you to the CEO of Ruck Down.

To pre-order Kimbo Price and support real hip-hop, click here.

Big thanks to Matt from MAC Media for the info and Eskay & Co for the MP3, Enjoy!

Download: Sean Price – Figure Four

Track List:

1.)  Intro
2.) Ruckdown
3.) Godfather Part P
4.) Goodnite!! f/Royce 5’9 & Petro
5.) Abortion f/Flood Diesel
6.) T.K.O. f/L.E.G.A.C.Y.
7.) Car Thiefs
8.) Megasean
9.) Boost f/PF Cuttin
10.) Bars Of Death f/Poison pen & Swave Sevah
11.) Pork Chops & Apple Sauce
12.) Get Ya Sket Mic
13.) Bueno Times f/Rustee Juxx
14.) Hot f/LAW & Rock of Heltah Skeltah
15.) Street Shit
16.) This Is Us f/Illanoyz & Agallah
17.) Weed & Hoes f/St. Maffew
18.) Slum Shady Skit
19.) Mamma I Want To Sing f/Buckshot
20.) Bullshit (Radient Jewls Remix)
21.) P’s Up
22.) Suicide Doors f/Neil Rames
23.) DuckDown f/Skyzoo & Torae

http://www.discogs.com/Diamond-D-B-Sides-And-Bootlegs/release/709839

Record Label: Fat Beats
Street Date: 07/03/2001
Ripped Date: 06/30/2001
Genre: Rap
Year: 2001
Source: Vinyl

Featuring some rare and unreleased productions by Diamond D.

Track Listing:

No.TimeTrack Title

01 3:44 Soul On Ice (Remix)
02 3:28 Build Ya Skillz
03 3:36 Untitled #1
04 2:18 Untitled #2
05 2:47 Flow On
06 3:22 I Got Planz
07 3:33 The Score
08 3:3 7MC Is My Ambition
09 4:10 Best Kept Secret (Remix)

Time: 0hr30min
Total Size: 42MB

http://www.mediafire.com/?jkk2jzkr3km

Album: Tronic
Year: 2008
Quality: GroupRip

Raekwon @ Fat Beats LA

Hip-Hop veterans Del The Funky Homosapien (Hieroglyphics) & Tame One (Artifacts) have teamed up for Parallel Uni-Verses a collaborative effort between the two emcee’s produced entirely by Parallel Thought.  Flashback is the first single/video from the album and as you would expect is on some serious Hip-Hop shit.
Flashback – Del The Funky Homosapien & Tame One

To my way of thinking there hasn’t been that many shows/events going on in LA that I would have killed to have gone along to but this, I would’ve liked to say I was able to attend. I’m keen as hell to here the Pac Div guys perform cuts off of Church League Champions; this is definitely set to get a turn out this coming Sunday.