Rap music in the late 80’s and early 90’s was raw, violent, and eye opening to listeners around the world. Artists like EPMD, Ice Cube, N.W.A., and Snoop Dogg were at the forefront of a music revolution now known as “Gangsta Rap”, and the record label that gave their voices a mainstream audience was … [Read more...]
The Star is Shining Bright, Better Wear Shades
With the cool mid-October air showing signs of a early winter in Manhattan a Caribbean breeze swept through the city as Universal Motown’s charismatic new singer/songwriter, Shontelle Layne, performed her hit single, “T-Shirt” to a packed crowd at Club Twelve 21. A month before the release of her … [Read more...]
To Be Where There’s Oasis
New York may be known as the city that never sleeps, but in mid-December it could have easily been deemed the land of lame excuses. “I’m drinking with my friend that night,” “I got called into work and am not in a position to refuse,” and the classic, “I’m filming with my theatre group that night,” … [Read more...]
Buying The Hard Sell in Brooklyn
It all started with a phone call (or, in this case, a text message) . . . “would you want to do Freeze at the Hollywood Bowl?” Cut Chemist and DJ Shadow jumped at the chance to be the first-ever headlining turntablists at the legendary 16,500 capacity venue, the site of infamous concerts by everyone … [Read more...]
Seattle-based Outtasite Bring Back The Rawkus
Over two decades have passed since Rock and Rap music first collided when a young Run DMC covered Aerosmith’s “Walk This Way” off their 1975 album, Toys In The Attic. At the time, Rock music was flourishing; whereas, Rap music was still trying to make a name for itself in the music industry. The two … [Read more...]