The years 1992-1993: A down period for East Coast rap, as New York MCs cowered at the larger-than-life exploits of the West Coast movement, fronted by Death Row Records, Dr. Dre, and his protégé Snoop Dogg. Enter a nine-man battalion from Staten Island, with honed lyrical swords and gobs of … [Read more...]
Dangerous MCEES
Method Man and Redman are one of the best duos in hip hop history. In 1995, Red and Meth's single, "How High" from "The Show" soundtrack showed their undeniable chemistry. They encompassed charisma, wittiness, lyrics and a free-spirited demeanor. So, in 1999, Blackout was born. The album contained … [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...]
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...]