After years of holding the R&B scene down, Ashanti is trying to expand her brand. From 2002 until 2004, she was the biggest female R&B act out, but the down fall of her label, Murder Inc., led to her falling from grace. In 2008, she had a brief return, but without the support of Irv Gotti, she did not get far.

The bad news from Ashanti did not end there. Her album, The Declaration, became the lowest-selling release of her career. Then, in May 2009, Irv Gotti announced that he was dropping her from the label. After that announcement, Ashanti announced that 2010 was going to see her release a new album, regardless of the label.

However, the rest of 2009 has Ashanti planning her own reality television series. This show will not be in the same vein of Irv Gotti’s VH1 series, “Gotti’s Way.” Instead, the show will have Ashanti as a judge in a competition-style show. For this series, Ashanti will serve as an executive producer.

Currently, she is signing contracts with her people to put things in place. The show is being shopped to networks and will hopefully have a home soon. Ashanti and her crew hope that the series will premiere in 2010, to go along with her new album.

In 2002, Irv Gotti was on top of the hip hop world. Some were beginning to credit him as the new Dr. Dre. He was producing some of the top hits. Gotti had the power to take an average rapper and put them in the top ten. Despite the comparisons to Dre, Gotti did not have a personal relationship with him.

Irv Gotti is best-known for his work with Ja Rule. The average hip hop fan knows Dr. Dre for his work with 50 Cent. Anyone who has been in hip hop for a while realizes the feud between 50 Cent towards Ja Rule and Irv Gotti. The first public diss record, “Back Down,” was produced by Dr. Dre.

Since that record proved to be the one that ended the reign of Murder Inc., Ja Rule and Irv Gotti began feuding with Dr. Dre. It has been nearly seven years since this feud began. Things seem to have calmed down, some, as Dr. Dre has collaborated with Ja Rule and other Murder Inc. acts. The relationship between Dre and Gotti remains nonexistent.

Crooked I, a rapper signed to Irv Gotti’s Murder Inc. had the opportunity to finally work with Dr. Dre. It is something that he has wanted to do for some time, now it has happened. He has compared Gotti to Dre. Crooked I said that when he informed Irv Gotti of his possible collaboration with Dr. Dre, Irv was very happy.

He said that Irv said that in spite of their feud, if he ever saw Dr. Dre, anywhere, he would reach out to him and shake his hand. Irv Gotti would do that simply based off of his respect for the man. Despite their past differences, Gotti has always admired Dre and has modeled some aspects of his own career after that of Dre.

Despite his tough talk of the past, it seems that Irv Gotti is finally ready to end this feud with Shady/Aftermath. He has spoken positively of Eminem in the media, more than once, he has watched Ja Rule take a stage with Eminem and shout out Dr. Dre. Now, Irv Gotti is professing his admiration for Dr. Dre.

It seems that Irv Gotti is finally ready to end his long-standing feud with Dr. Dre.

Earlier this year, Irv Gotti was out promoting the second season of his VH1 reality series, “Gotti’s Way.” Aside from the show, he talked about the artists on his label, Murder Inc. He mentioned that the label’s contract with Universal Records was over, so they were free to move on.

It turns out that Murder Inc. Records has no deal and no actually signed artists. His longtime flagship artist, Ja Rule is committed to the label, but he is not signed because the label, itself, has no deal. Soon, Lloyd announced that he had left the label and Gotti announced that he was dropping Ashanti.

One statement that was made has been overlooked, though. During an interview back in April about the state of his label, Irv Gotti said that Murder Inc. was preparing to sign with Warner/Atlantic and that he was meeting with Lyor Cohen to establish a deal. Diddy has left Atlantic Records and the label is looking for a president.

There have not been any other hip hop sites to mention the comment that Gotti made. Earlier this year, it was revealed that Atlantic Records was looking for a label president and Irv Gotti has a great track record. It would make sense for him to take over, plus he needs a label to release the new music coming from his label.

Think about it, Ja Rule has a new album coming in 2010, Newz has his debut album coming in 2010, and Ashanti is working on a new album. If Gotti signed a deal with Atlantic, he will probably also become the label’s president, so that deal would not finalize until sometime next year.

Has Irv Gotti taken an executive role at Warner Music?

In 2006, it was reported that Irv Gotti had reached a three year deal with Universal Records. This deal was supposed to bring about a return to that “platinum sound” that Gotti had created during his time at Def Jam. He had it all planned out, a new album from Lloyd, then Ja Rule, then Ashanti.

Things started off great, Lloyd released a hit single, “You,” followed by his platinum-selling, Street Love album. He created a new energy at the label and Ja Rule began making his rounds in 2007. It felt like Ja Rule had finally reclaimed his spot, he was out late in the summer promoting a new single with an album set for a fall release.

Ja Rule released two singles, “Uh Ohhh!” and “Body.” The songs were not bad, but they never became hits. As a result, Rule’s project was pushed to the side for a new Ashanti album and a new Lloyd album. For a year after, the label made no buzz aside from the mixtape scene.

In 2009, Ja Rule reemerged from the shadows promoting a new album to be released sometime in 2009. It is now clear that is not happening, but him coming out led to Newz making rounds, along with Irv Gotti.

Gotti first came out to reveal that he was dropping Ashanti from Murder Inc. Then Lloyd said that he was off of the label, Irv came out to say that Lloyd was still on the label. Blok Gang/Murder Inc. rapper, Newz revealed that the entire label was still intact. Finally, Lloyd actually left the label earlier this month.

There were once rumors of Ja Rule also leaving the label, but he is still with the label, as is Ashanti. Ja said that she will probably remain with the label as soon as she and Irv Gotti forgive each other. For those keeping count, the deal with Murder Inc. and Universal is now up, it has been three years.

Initially, there were rumors of Irv Gotti moving Murder Inc. to Atlantic Records to become the CEO in 2005. That deal never materialized, but it may happen now. Kevin Liles recently left the label, as has Sean Combs, a likely candidate for replacement. The next candidate in line as a replacement was T.I., but he is imprisoned.

Meanwhile, Irv Gotti remains a force within the industry. He has deep connections and he has relationships with a lot of artists that find themselves without labels. Artists that are currently without deals include Eve, DMX, and many other acts.

Throughout the summer of 2009, Irv Gotti hinted act the possibility of Murder Inc. entering a distribution deal with Atlantic Records. The label is currently searching for an executive with a great track record in the industry to take over as president and CEO. Now that Sean Combs is gone, who would be better than Irv Gotti?

He created a roster of talent with Murder Inc. and with Atlantic Records behind him, he could rebuild that roster. Ja Rule still has talent, as does Ashanti and they still have chemistry. Getting those two back in the studio may mend all fences that were previously broken. He has existing relationships with people at Atlantic/Warner, so a deal is possible.

Once the label secures distribution, they can begin to make music once again. Irv Gotti has relationships with Eve and DMX, as mentioned, but he is also close to Nas, The Game, Rick Ross, Fat Joe, and other veterans in rap. He could easily convince them to sign with his label by granting them imprints.

This time around, Irv Gotti said that he has something special up his sleeve. He has been working with Ja Rule, who says that he is working on a special album and Ashanti has also began working on new music. Before the end of the year, the label will make an announcement and 2010 may be the year that Murder Inc. becomes a label again.

With Bad Boy Records on the way out, it would make sense for Atlantic to help Irv Gotti rebuild Murder Inc.

Quick throwback for y’all. Some classic verses up in here. If you can’t remember these verses / what song there from / what album there from… then you gotta start doin your homework youngin…. There’s only so much we can do

Going on a month, now Oprah Winfrey has been obsessed with Jay-Z. For her O magazine, she interviewed Jay-Z and he showed her how any why he did the things that he did. After the interview was over, she was calling Jay her best friend ever.

Jay-Z made such an impression on Oprah that she invited him to come to her acclaimed television series, “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” for an episode. This is the first time in her show’s history that she has had a rapper on as a rapper and not criticized them for their lyrics.

A few years ago, Ludacris made an appearance on her show in promotion of his movie, Crash, and she called him out for his album content. He quickly let it be known that he came to talk about his new movie role, instead of his musical content. After the show, Ludacris went on to take numerous shots at the mogul.

Most of hip hop seems to have an issue with Oprah because she is constantly down hip hop’s throat. 50 Cent has also called Oprah out quite a few times because of her seeming hateful towards hip hop and hip hop artists. As of late, it seems that she is turning a new leaf.

Along with her longtime friend, Gayle King, Oprah maintains a great relationship with Irv Gotti. Also, as previously mentioned, she is also infatuated with Jay-Z. She has praised Jay and his music and she has not taken any shots at hip hop music in a while.

Is Oprah cool with hip hop now?

Apparently Ja Rule is still spending money from his Ashanti days.  Here is a report of the finances governed by Mr. Rule brought to light by Illseed (Thanks again).  Many forget he was the biggest artist on the planet during his reign.

In a 2008 networth scan, Ja Rule had a networth estimated at nearly 90 million. Ja Rule was the executive producer for his highest selling CDs to date. Ja Rule has sold 35 million records worldwide and from 2000-2002 he was the world’s fastest selling rapper and the highest paid as well. Ja Rule along with his former group, The Cash Money Click, settled with a $45 million dollar claim in the crew’s unreleased material handeled by TVT Records, Ja getting a costly $38 million of the stake. From his small appearences in 14 movies, 5 of those box office hits, Ja Rule has made an estimated $16.2 million. Ja Rule also teamed up with Irv Gotti in 2004 and created the urban clothing line ErvingGeoffery, which sells fairly well in the big city market. Other money making attributes include Ja Rule’s alcoholic beverage Momo Mojito and the very profitable L.I.F.E. Foundation, which schools over 2,500 students in New York, Atlanta, Miami, Los Angeles, Houston, and Dallas. Ja Rule lives in a $1.2 million dollar home in Saddle River, New Jersey and also owns 2 multi-million dollar mansions in California and owns a $3.5 million dollar mansion in Miami. Ja Rule makes an estimated $7.5 million in touring in Europe and Asia, where he has an extremely strong fanbase.

Recently, some secrets about the demise of Irv Gotti and Murder Inc. have been revealed. When Lloyd officially left the former powerhouse label, Caddillac Tah spoke out in support of the singer, stating that he felt the same way about Gotti.

While Caddy insisted that he holds no ill-will for Irv Gotti, he realized that Irv was not a real friend, just a business acquaintance. He said that when he first joined Murder Inc., he felt as if Irv Gotti was truly his friend. Once Ja Rule hit it big and the label blew up, it was supposed to be his time to shine.

Out of greed, Irv Gotti and the Def Jam executives decided to keep Caddy on the back-burner, while Ja Rule mastered the rap game. In 2001, Tah’s debut album was supposed to be released. The reason it was not was because of Irv Gotti and Lyor Cohen, according to the rapper.

Some hip hop fans wondered why Murder Inc.’s support was so low during their feud with 50 Cent and his squad. Caddillac Tah has given a little insight on why the backlash was so hard. He said that Irv Gotti had become a bully within the hip hop game. He said that Just Blaze wanted both he and Black Child to record a song for NBA Live, but Irv Gotti turned him down for no reason.

Because of the way that Irv Gotti treated Just Blaze, he remained silent while 50 Cent ended Murder Inc.’s run. While most credit 50 Cent for the end of Murder Inc.’s run, Caddillac Tah credits Murder Inc. to their own demise. He said that Gotti’s head just got too big to maintain and it was nothing but karma.

Caddillac Tah said that despite the way he was treated, he stayed loyal with the label. Even through the trials, he was there, supporting his people. He even signed the deal with Universal Records, which has since been dissolved. Tah even laughed at the law suit from TVT Records on Murder Inc./Def Jam in 2001. He blames his failure to launch on greed and a lack of promotion.

Tah’s debut album was supposed to be released in 2001. He felt that everything was in place and an album was all that he was missing. Irv Gotti and Lyor Cohen, however, felt that his buzz was not big enough. At the rate he was going, his album would not do much better than gold. For a debut album, gold is great, but Murder Inc. makes platinum music.

He was supposed to be the voice of the streets from Murder Inc., while Ja Rule handled the mainstream. When he came in to record his album, the label gave him nothing but tracks that were left off of albums from Nas and Ja Rule. This left Tah a little slighted.

After spending all of this time with Murder Inc., Caddillac Tah has revealed that he is no longer on the label. He is an independent artist on an independent label. He maintains a great relationship with Ja Rule. Tah frequently stated that if Ja had been in charge, things would not have ended the way that they did. He spoke of Irv Gotti in a different light, but wished him the best of luck.

Caddillac Tah mentioned that outside of Ja Rule, he has great relationships with Jadakiss and many other members of the Ruff Ryders.

Grand Closing.

“Can’t Knock The Hustle” feat. Mary J Blige

(Prod. Knobody, Co-Produced by Sean Cane & Dahoud)

- Pain In Da Ass comes through with the amazing recreation of that notorious scene from “Scarface” when Tony & Manolo get instructions on delivering their first Ki’s. A really appropriate intro because Jay was definitely still trying to prove himself, like Tony was doing during the beginning of his rise to the top. If I had to narrow it down and choose one Jay track as my favourite of all-time, I think this would be the front runner. Mary is so smooth & soulful, while Jay goes through his street tales in a calm, cool and collected manor. When I listened to “December 4″ for the first time, I got emotional, but when I heard this live at “Heart Of The City” Tour in 2008 @ Air Canada Centre, it made me really appreciate the song so much more. So much that when I heard it in the car soon after, I got emotional just listening to Mary J’s energy and passionate delivery, one of the best collaborations in Hip Hop history if you ask me!

“Politics as Usual”

(Prod. by Ski)

- Many people say that your first album is always your best work, because all of your experiences leading up to that point are rolled up into one body of music. I think the best music is based off pure emotion, whether it be a lifetime of experiences or just a crazy weekend vacation, aslong as the music is authentic in the sense that you are truly passionate about it. This track is a perfect example of how Hov set the blueprint for other rappers, he basically came into the game as a millionaire and was stuntin’ from the beginning. In ‘96-97 while dudes were still getting gassed off videos shot on their block, Jay brought the Roc to St. Thomas & Bahamas, doing videos on yachts over clear blue water. When you see the way they walked, talked, dressed and rapped, you really believed they were living the life for real. All these luxuries weren’t infact luxuries or special events, they were just a part of the every day life… Politics as Usual.

“Brooklyn’s Finest” feat. Notorious B.I.G.

(Prod. Clark Kent, Co-Produced by Dame Dash)

- No disrespect to “I Love the Dough” or “Young G’s”, but this is the best Jay x B.I.G. collabo ever! These two trading 4 bar bombs over a Clark Kent instrumental is cool, but the chemistry is so intense that you can truly feel it. I always love hearing all the stories about this track, how it came together and all the behind the scenes stuff. It might be damn near impossible to find it, but I do remember reading that Biggie has gone on record and said that “Jay is the only person that makes me nervous (when it comes to recording together)” That’s the biggest compliment I think someone could pay you at that point in time, I mean, “Ready to Die” was still killing it back then. Shouts to Clark Kent for the crazy beat and for introducing these two giants, because if it wasn’t for him, there might not be a “Brooklyn’s Finest”

“Dead Presidents II (New Lyrics)”

(Prod. Ski)

- Nas, you made it a hot line, he made it a hot song. Truer words could not have been spoken to describe this song and that’s not a shot (by me) at Nasir, I just think the song is great with or without a guest appearance. Come to think of it, I think this might’ve been one of the songs that started that whole “Benjamins” craze; I wouldn’t be surprised if Diddy jacked the concept from this for his own monster money anthem, “All About The Benjamins” From the primitive stages of Hip Hop’s humble beginnings, rappers were always rapping about the struggles of the ghetto and bragging about how dope they were as MC’s, but I think this song (and album in general) was like the changing of the guard. ‘96 and the years shortly following, saw rappers/hip hop CEOs really start getting money and that’s when the subject matter changed, dudes were starting to live it up. Words like “Hustler” became more common and “Get Money” was not only a mentality, it was a lifestyle.

“Feelin’ It” feat. Mecca

(Prod. Ski)

- Initially, this was my favourite joint off the album, it’s so cool… lol I didn’t know how else to describe it, but the vibe of the track is so cool. Ski provided a rugged backdrop, but the (piano) keys are so melodic and they provide a (mental) scene filled with mafioso/gangster types sipping champagne. This was one of those anthems that made you want to go to a club in a 3-piece suit, top hat and just buy out bottles; which is kinda funny because I was way too young to get into a club at the time and I still don’t drink. It just goes to show you the impact of this track and how powerful the lyrics are; I can’t front on Mecca either, she held it down! PS. It was rumored that this beat was originally made for Camp Lo!

“D’Evils”

(Prod. DJ Premier)

- Wow. I believe this was their first record together? The transition of Snoop’s laid back West Coast slang to a grimy East NY hook was so seamless and that’s why Premier is the man to see for beats & those scratchy hooks. Many people speculate that this song is about the “illuminati” and I even read on Twitter (from a reputable blogger) that Jay is in some type of secret society? I don’t know how much of that I believe (or care about) but I prefer to take the high road and accept the song for it’s most basic output. Shawn is making the transition from the street to the boardroom, a hustler turned full-time rapper and he is explaining the lure(s) of evil, temptation and dangers of becoming successful. Much like The Neptunes, Jay x Premier is an unstoppable combination that has yet to fail or disappoint.

“Even if Jehovah Witness bare he’ll never testify, D’Evils”

“22 Two’s”

(Prod. Ski)

- “Dame Dash let me hear that new tape of yours and its phat!” lol Shouts to Maria Davis from Mad Wednesdays, except at the end when she is going OD on people smoking! It’s very cool to see that Jay was clearly inspired by ATCQ to some capacity, because he borrows the “Can I Kick it?” hook and it’s almost surprising, but not really. Shawn goes in over a dope but basic beat that is really appropriate for this track, because it allows his rhymes and wordplay shine.

“Look in your casket, feeling sarcastic.. Look at him, still sleeping”

I never thought you could use the words “Two”, “To” and “Too” in so many ways until I heard this joint, who says Rap isn’t educational?

“Can I Live?”

(Prod. DJ Irv)

- Before Murder Inc, before Ja Rule, before a terrible clothing line, Irv Gotti created one of the most important beats on what many regard as one of the best albums of all-time. Oh pardon me, “DJ Irv” was the name he was going by, but regardless of what you call him, you need to show respect because what he did with that Isaac Hayes track is immaculate.

“Roc-A-Fella.. We invite you to something epic.. “

This is a prime example of how this album contained a lot of slow to mid-tempo tracks (82-90 bpm) but still the beats were so hypnotic and powerful that you could not help getting hyped up when you would hear them out. It’s a fact that success breeds jealously & envy, so I guess this was Jay’s way of asking for some space, like.. “Back up off me!” There are way too many quotables from this track, so I won’t even go in, but I will suggest you kick back, let the horns take over and just zone out to this.

“Ain’t No N*gg*” feat. Foxy Brown

(Prod. Big Jaz)

-  Before Jaz-O was a bitter old man (See: Pai Mei from Kill Bill 2) he had a crazy flow and was on point with production, I know it may be hard to believe for some of the younger listeners, but it’s true! This was an incredible track that debuted a young (16, I believe) Foxy Brown to the world and turned a big time sample into a big time beat. Legend has it that the sample was played out live on the MPC by Jaz when it was recorded and Foxy claims that she wrote that verse herself. Do I believe any of that? I definitely think that Jaz played out the sample live and recorded it, but as far as Foxy writing her own rhymes at that age & at that level (they were pretty hot for ‘96)

“Friend or Foe”

(Prod. DJ Premier)

- Is it just me or is that Dame in the beginning of this track cocking back his gun (pause) and talking about robbing Jay-Z, because he’s bitter about not making as much money as him? Some things never change I guess… Hiyoooo! I’m kidding, sorta. Anyway, there isn’t a lot I can say about this track that hasn’t already been said or will be said once you listen to it. Clocking in at a mere 1:50 this is the shortest track on the album, but it definitely still holds it’s own, proving that quality reigns supreme over quantity.

“Coming of Age” feat. Memphis Bleek

(Prod. Clark Kent)

- Introducing one of the luckiest hypemen in the world: Memphis Bleek. Well, I don’t want to disrespect him because he did have a gold album (500,000+ sales in the USA) and numerous club hits, but let’s be honest and say that his albums were all disappointing. I think “534″ is his best work, but still that failed to rise his status from where it has been since the time he dropped his debut. Anyway, I think Bleek is nice at times and this was an incredible way to get introduced to the game. Trading bars with Jigga on Reasonable Doubt for a song that is based on the older rappers/hustlers making way for him and accepting him for who/what he is, is a very good look. This was Bleek’s initiation into the Roc Familia and his opportunity to show his skills over a piano heavy loop from Clark Kent. I wouldn’t compare this to AZ’s performance on “Life’s A Bitch” but I definitely think Bleek held his own.

“Cashmere Thoughts”

(Prod. Clark Kent)

- After further analyzing the production credits, I think that Clark Kent deserves more credit for helping this legendary album, become.. Well, legendary. Although none of his beats on the album were particularly amazing, Clark still put some dope work in and they fit perfectly for the point of each particular track. Sometimes I think it’s good for a really talented writer/rapper to pick beats that are good, but not mindblowing, in order to further excentuate their talent(s).

“Bring It On” feat. Big Jaz & Sauce Money

(Prod. DJ Premier)

- This track made me realize 2 things: Jay & Premier wouldn’t have been able to make as many albums as Guru & Premier, but I think the quality of the albums would’ve been better. Imagine that: Gangstarr (Jay-Z & DJ Premier) lol

Secondly, Sauce Money was really ill and I think Roc should’ve signed/pushed him as second in command, because I think (with some coaching/industry grooming) he could’ve enjoyed some late 90’s success. Even to this day, I hear him do some freestyle joints from time to time and he is still pretty nice.

Anyway, this does in as another incredible Primo produced posse cut, with a “Fat Joe” vocal sample chopped up on the hook and the track features each MC stating their case for “dopest verse”.

All three went in and I don’t think I can narrow it down, but if I had to:

Jaz > Jay > Sauce

Wow, are you as surprised as I am? Credit where credit it due.

“Regrets”

(Prod. Peter Panic)

- For an album filled with tales of drug deals, big money and the glorification of the fast life, this is the perfect way to end things off and leave listeners wanting more. “Regrets”, something we all have, we all need and something we all need to get over & live with.

“Reasonable Doubt” is a certified classic that was embraced by critics and diehard fans alike and a game changing album that’s atleast 5 years ahead of it’s time. If you are stuck on a desert island with only 5 CDs, make sure this is one of them.

Fin

]]> http://bigphillythelife.wordpress.com/2009/09/10/10in10scarter/ Thu, 10 Sep 2009 23:19:16 +0000 Big Philly http://bigphillythelife.wordpress.com/2009/09/10/10in10scarter/

BP3 is coming out tomorrow, it dropped Tuesday in the USA and I’m somehow only on day 7 of my reviews?! So, I’m somewhat behind, but fear not, as I will be working diligently to finish on schedule.

I didn’t really realize this until yesterday, but “Vol. 3″ is definitely looking like one of my least favourite Jay albums, I’m not really feeling a lot of the production. I personally blame that on Clue, Duro, Saf, Russ  and whoever gave the green light on a few of those tracks. No shots, but it’s just different strokes for different folks, pause.

In hindsight, this album was good, maybe even great for it’s time, but the overall longevity of the entire record is not as strong as other releases. This album has an uber-90’s feel, you know? When I listen to “Reasonable Doubt” or “The Black Album” they seem to transcend time, although I do associate each with various memories, it still doesn’t make me feel stuck in a certain year. “Life and Times…” makes me feel really 90’s, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing, because the 90’s was an amazing decade, but much of these songs are dead nowadays.

The “Intro” was so approprite and a perfect fit, as the 90’s came to an end, Jay was really goin’ in on the whole “Jay- Hova” thing and this K-Rob produced beat was very, uh.. Religious? lol Well, it was like a thugged out church choir humming and doing back up, it was really appropriate for this album. Also, this was the first time Shawn spoke to us as an audience on an intro, instead of using a “gangster” themed intro or just straight rhyming. You know what Jay, I am like you, I do open the CD and start reading the credits!

One thing that is somewhat saddening about this CD is that it marks the last time Jay & DJ Premier worked together, possibly ever! “So Ghetto” was an amazing joint with classic Premier production elements, from the cut n’ sampled hook, sharp chops on the beat and that secret ingredient that makes this time tested formula one of the best in the game. The more I look back and enjoy who/what Jay was, I further understand why he has to make “different” records nowadays, with lines like “Jiggaman, you rich, take that doo-rag off” I’m just guessing, kinda going on out a limb, but I don’t think Shawn has worn a doo-rag in about 7-8 years lol

Until “Big Pimpin” was released in early 2000, I think “Do It Again” was definitely the joint off this album. It was a club track by design, but I feel like this record stands tall on the street & mixtape scene as well. The guest appearance by Beans is huge and I think this might possibly be Amil’s best verse, ever! But, that isn’t saying much.. Taking the listeners through the typical club evening which starts late and ends with some late night eats & a one night stand.. My kind of night! lol I’m kidding! I miss the days when a rapper could say some greazy lines on a track, throw on a catchy (almost unrelated) hook and still get crazy spins in the club. Does anyone remember how some group from (Washington) D.C. claimed that the hook was stolen from them and tried to file some lawsuit? Meh, neither do I!

“Dope Man” is a cool track, because it’s basically Shawn telling the world his “other” profession, but it’s not your typical modern day “trap star” type of joint. On a side note, the track was co-produced by Lance “UN” Rivera (from UNtertainment fame) and I’m kinda wondering if he did the track before or after Jay shanked him? Haha… But, in all seriousness, stabbing people isn’t cool! The intriguing part of this joint is that SC talks about his drug dealing past with some regret and uses it as a warning to others, stating that it was only a way out and he is lucky to be alive/around to talk about it. Most rappers either gloat and/or lie about slangin’ and thats really not cool at all, especially when you’re seriously misleading your more naive/impressionable listeners.

With an album that boasts approximately 50% of its production from Timbaland/Swizz Beatz, one would expect a lot more value and longevity from the tracks within, but I think Swizzy was still perfecting his sound and as far as Timbo, he perfected his R&B a few years prior and his Hip Hop/Club stuff wasn’t far along either. “Big Pimpin”, “It’s Hot”, “Snoopy Track” and “Come and Get Me” being credited to Mr. Mosely, I think he really did his part for the album, except for the latter (Come and Get Me). “Big Pimpin” was an amazing track that was heavily criticized (by uptight politicians, backpackers and shitty parents) but was such an important song for many reasons. It brought UGK to the attention of many East coast and International listeners, it inspired the best shirt Roc-A-Wear ever designed (The Yacht shirt that said “Big Pimpin” and is it just me or does the Play Cloths shirt with the Yacht on it from last season look kinda similar?! Hmms) and it was the first video for video vixen Gloria Velez. Also, was this Timbo’s first huge success in terms of Hip Hop tracks? Aside from some Missy stuff? Anyway, “Snoopy Track” should’ve been named “It’s Hot” because, well.. It’s a hot joint! That beat is so hypnotic and the flow is crazy too.

The only other 2 commercially successful tracks were actually bonus tracks: “Jigga My Nigga” and “Girl’s Best Friend”

“Jigga..” was probably Swizzy’s best beat at the time, it’s a toss up between that and “Ruff Ryders Anthem”, they are both so heavy it’s hard to decide because both were so ridiculous at the time. If you played basketball, I guarantee you that this was on your warm-up CD/tape! Although I’m not a huge fan, “Girl’s Best Friend” is a clever joint that allows Jay’s creativity and writing ability to really shine, no pun intended. He raps part of the song from the diamond’s perspective, a la Nas (as a gun) on “I Gave You Power” and it’s real slick, if you appreciate and understand diamonds, then you’ll smirk when you play this.

“Watch Me” is an interested but disappointing track that features Dr. Pepper’s own resident MD, Andre Young. But, let me get this straight: You have a Dr. Dre feature on your album, but instead of using a Dre beat, you picked a beat from Irv Gotti & some dude named Lil Rob? Are you serious right now? Well, in Gotti’s defense, he did absolutely destroy “Can I  Live” (Reasonable Doubt) but still, how could you pass up beats by Dre (No headphones)

Overall, I feel like “Vol. 3″ is a good album, but nowhere near the top of Jay’s catalogue and although it makes me feel like it’s the 90’s all over again, that’s okay, because the 90’s were pretty darn good (for the most part)

]]> http://hhvibe.wordpress.com/2009/09/06/are-lloyd-and-irv-gotti-feuding/ Sun, 06 Sep 2009 14:55:03 +0000 tvtbt http://hhvibe.wordpress.com/2009/09/06/are-lloyd-and-irv-gotti-feuding/

When Lloyd first arrived at Murder Inc., it was a real family. The artists on the label were so tight-knit and the artists were always together. Lloyd’s 2004 debut, Southside, was a success, as was the lead single title track featuring Ashanti.

In 2005, he performed alongside Ja Rule on his hit single, “Caught Up.” It seemed as if nothing could stop Murder Inc. A few months later, the label officially beat all of their charges, but they were dropped from Def Jam.

After being dropped from Def Jam, Lloyd demanded independence from the label. In 2007, he released his successful sophomore album, led by the Lil Wayne-assisted, “You.” The song was a hit and it looked as if everything was right, again.

While working on his third album, Lessons in Love, Lloyd asked to be independent from Irv Gotti and his team of producers. Filming his show, “Gotti’s Way,” Irv obliged. The result was great after Lloyd released another hit with “Girls Around the World.”

Now, with no album in the works, Lloyd announced that he was officially off of Murder Inc. He said that his reasons for leaving were because he had no creative freedom and was forced to work on the album entirely by himself. Days later, Irv Gotti responded by pointing out the contradiction in his press-release. Gotti also stated that Lloyd was still on the label.

Newz, a new Murder Inc. artist told SOHH that everyone was still on the roster as they are preparing to sign new contracts with a major-label. Just this past Friday, Lloyd had some choice words for Gotti and stated that he was no longer on the label.

Initially when Lloyd said that he was off of the Murder Inc. label, he said that he still maintains friendships with the artists of the label. Here, recently, he said that he knows when to seperate business and friendship. So, are the former collaborators feuding?

Part 1 of interview:

Part 2 of interview:

He been with the Inc for 5 years… and speaks of having to use his own money to record, his fone calls not being returned, being told not to release records when he needed the income, Not speaking to Irv in over a year… and more…
I’ve Interviewed Lloyd twice & he is a safe guy… Hope it works out for him…

(aceshowbiz) Three months after revealing his desire to part ways with Irv Gotti’s The Inc., Lloyd officially walks out of the label. “I have no regrets, and even if I did, it’s about learning to live with them. I look at it as a learning experience … but I won’t really dwell on the past. I will always look forward to the future,” he said in a press release regarding his exit from the company.

Lloyd has attempted to part ways with The Inc. since 2006 when he independently released a single called “You”. However, “legal maneuvering landed him right back” on the recording company. Now that he has been freed from the label, Lloyd is prepping to release “Gangsta Grillz: The Album, Pt. 3″ with DJ Drama.

Moreover, Lloyd has begun working on his fourth studio album. “I’m working with Lil Wayne again, Jim Jonsin, Young Jeezy, Keri Hilson, Cool & Dre, and Rick Ross,” so he said of the still-in-the-work project. His new single called “Pusha” which features Juelz Santana is expected to come out sometime soon.

Anybody surprised by this? Gotti freakin fell off … he only has his reality show to really make that money … I like that show alot, “Gotti’s Way” since it shows the other side of him.  I feel bad for his BM Deb tho, she deserves better (emotionally).

Lloyd talks about leaving the .Inc….

“…Trying to work with this rubble that I was given and build something out of it…”

Part 1

Part 2

BryonceKnows.com reports:

Ms I’m NOT f*cking for tracks Adrienne Bailon, was spotted out with Irv Gotti, and whilst this hook up is probably as innocent as R. Kelly with a video tape [hey, I didnt say anything about teenagers], it kinda makes me wonder. Like who remembers when rumours circulated a few years back, ’bout Adrienne gettin’ it in with the Murder Inc crew?? I’m just saying…

T.I. has had one of the fastest-rising careers in hip hop history. He began as a street rapper, then he became a rapper with a deal. When he first debuted, in 2001, not too many people outside of Atlanta knew who T.I. was.

His album was a complete flop and he was dropped from his label, LaFace. In 2003, he returned with his second album, Trap Muzik, on Atlantic Records. He also created his own imprint, Grand Hustle, which is operated as a subsidiary of Atlantic.

Slowly, but surely, he became the biggest act on Atlantic Records, thus their top money-maker. In 2006, he began growing his Grand Hustle imprint, making successes out of Big Kuntry and Young Dro. After the success of these rappers, T.I. became one of the top executives in hip hop.

For the past two years, T.I. has had his share of troubles with the law. Earlier this year, he began his one year prison sentence. Around the same time, Atlantic Records Group found themselves without a president. Thus, the search for a new president began.

The label was thought to be interested in either Irv Gotti, Sean “Diddy” Combs, or T.I. It seems more and more likely that T.I. will be the label group’s next president. In a February interview with MTV, the rapper said that the people need to wait and see what happens.

When T.I. is officially released from prison, the Atlantic Records Group will make a press release. There is a likely chance that T.I., upon his prison release, has a chance to rise straight from the penentary to the presidency of one of the largest label groups in America.