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Parlé's "New Blood" section helps spotlight unsigned artists creating a buzz in the underground circuit.
Each artist will feature a bio and a song.
comments are welcome!!!
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Written by DeVon Hyman
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Trenton, NJ's own B-Mafia is an artist and entrepreneur worth lending an ear to. His ambition is first rate, as well as the story behind his grind. From rapper to executive B-Mafia has laid his own path. By prioritizing creative control with his brand B-Mafia has progressed in the industry. His Black Attire Entertainment movement is ever-growing. B-Mafia recently sat down with Parlé Magazine to speak on some of the moves he has been making. Parle with me as I present to you, Black Attire Ent's own B-Mafia:
Parlé Magazine: So tell us about your start in rapping in Trenton?
B Mafia: To be honest and as humble as possible, my start was like anybody else's. I love my city, I love where I’m from. It was a struggle at times, but we all struggle. Getting past it is what it is all about. At the end of the day, I've always been ambitious. I seen something I wanted to do so I made it my dream. And today I am here presenting what I do to the world, and grinding to make it happen.
Parlé: Who were some of the artists from your area who you looked up to when you first started out?
B-Mafia: Poor Righteous Teachers were the main group that I looked up to and I admired their work. There are a lot of significantly dope artists, everybody has their own lane .
Parle Magazine: I understand that you are more than just a rapper, you’re an entrepeneur as well?
B-Mafia: Yes, and thats something that I am proud of. I am the founder of BlackAttire.Entertainment and co-producer of BlackPaperPromotions PaperClipz which is a DVD.
Parle Magazine: What sparked your interests into being an executive?
B-Mafia: For me a lot of it was about creative control. Now this is not a knock on anyone but what I have learned is that with the majors everybody has an opinion, and in turn it costs. It’s like everyone has their hands in your pocket and you can't be yourself. I wanted to control the product that I present, so I figured out a way to be my own boss.
B Mafia: What is Black Attire? Black Attire is my label and it’s more of a movement to be real. I’m trying to make it a brand that will remain in the mouths of millions. From everything regarding music to parties.
Parle Magazine: What are some of the projects that you have released already?
B Mafia: There are a lot brother, I've been grinding. There is DJ Smarts and B-Mafia presents Mafia's Top Notch Vol.1 ;The Rebirth of B-Mafia and Dj Dirty Money and B-Mafia Presents Mafia's Top Notch Vol.2 The Life
You can find all of those on itunes, Amazon, Napster etc.... I just hope that everyone supports unsigned artists and cop 10 of each. (laughs)
Parle Magazine: Right now I'm gonna take you back in time, the year is 1998, and on the box is Camron's "Pull it" featuring DMX playing, what are you thinking?
B Mafia: Man you really took me back with that one and the reality is that song is very significant. More than anything I would probably be thinking, "wow I want to do that. I want to put words together like that and get that same response. To have people love it and vibe with me would be great."
Parle Magazine: If Hip-Hop were a person, what would u say to it?
B Mafia: I gotta say that's a good one. To be real I would say "Thank you for the different lanes you have opened up for me in the world and everyone involved with the culture."
Parle Magazine: What would you say was one of the pivotal moments in the progression of yourself as an artist?
B Mafia: You just got a lot of good stuff up your sleeve I see. (laughs) Man, I would say when my 1st CD came out. I remember a brother brought it for his daughter. A couple days later he came back for 4 more, his daughter's friends were digging the music. At the time I was shooting my 1st video which was titled, “Lost,” which is a song I wrote for my grandfather and my cousin. That occurrence was kind of a reassurance that I was doing what I am best at and what is the most productive.
Parle Magazine: What is next for B Mafia?
B Mafia: Currently I'm working on Mafia's Top Notch vol 2.5 and vol.3. The new year is upon us, my partner Sal, and I are thinking and discussing expanding. Potentially venturing into model management, which we would brand as Mafia's Angels, so please be on the look out for all thats to come. Also check out my latest videos.
I just wanna thank you, DeVon, and Parle Magazine for this opportunity.
LINKS TO B-MAFIA's MUSIC
Trenton, NJ's own B-Mafia is an artist and entrepreneur worth lending an ear to. His ambition is first rate, as well as the story behind his grind. From rapper to executive B-Mafia has laid his own path. By prioritizing creative control with his brand B-Mafia has progressed in the industry. His Black Attire Entertainment movement is ever-growing. B-Mafia recently sat down with Parlé Magazine to speak on some of the moves he has been making. Parlé with me as I present to you, Black Attire Ent's own B-Mafia.
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Written by DeVon Hyman
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Main stream or Indie, whats the difference? Now a days the answer surely is not success. Gone are the days of the golden era of rap, and with it, the numbers: albums sold, sold out arenas, and endorsements. Now-a-days true artists, those that are passionate, those who are truly creative and accessible get their music to the public by any means. Often times its the free download. Digital Marketing has paved the way for the development of cult like followings for unsigned artists resulting in more publicity and relevance at times than their signed counterparts. Take Rockie Fresh for example. Indie by definition, which a few years back had such a demeaning connotation to it. These days Indie means fresh, trend setting. A part of the in-crowd some would say.
With a buzz that anyone in the know would consider top notch amongst up and comers, Rockie Fresh, the Chicagoan has carved out a nice niche for himself. I had the pleasure of checking out his live show, as Rockie was one of the opening acts on the Green Label Sound tour presenting the Cool Kids @ Brooklyn Bowl. I left that night thoroughly impressed and quite honestly, a fan. You see for me, Hip-Hop is a way of life. Something to be shared, admired, and criticized if need be. It exists. At its purest, its authentic.
I have come to learn, as you will that Rockie Fresh embodies everything Hop-Hop. His existence has a purpose, his music a message. I joked with him that it seems as though Chicago is having its moment, the same moment held captive by the South once upon a time, and the East before that. But where is it now? I'll answer that for you--in the middle of a rebirth, a renaissance if you will. Yes, Hip-Hop is reborn. Helping the cause are some trendy individuals, with lyrics to hold your ear and a sound to make you at the very least, nod your head. One of their names is Rockie Fresh. If you havent by now you should get in tuned with the "outsider". I present to you..... Rockie Fresh!
Parlé Magazine: What does it mean to be a Chicago M.C.?
Rockie Fresh: Being a Chicago MC means everything. Following the blueprint of successful artists like Lupe Fiasco, Kanye West, Common, and Twista I understand the importance of being consistent with my brand and putting out quality music. Thats what my foucs is right now. I have a tremendous drive and a chip on my shoulder. In my city there's this feel that all we got is us. Chicago is not really big on music, we're more known for other things, but at the same time its refreshing when people can depend on artists. Kanye, Lupe, and those guys gave the city that. I wanna follow up. My goal is to make Chicago the go to place for talented artist.
Parlé: I saw your show at Brooklyn Bowl, you tore it down. How was that for you opening up for The Cool Kids?
Rockie: My show is interactive on purpose. I am a chill dude by nature, but when Im up there I want the people to tell me if they like the music, I wanna feel it. Its a reflection of who I am at all times. Im authentic. My mentality is to touch people when Im up there. As I visit and tour in new places, often times I become a person's first experience with the music and culture of Hip-Hop. The experience all in all is surreal. The entire experience of being an artist. That along with making a connection with the fans and the audience. I like to be very accessible. People see me in Chicago, I'm at the boutiques, I'm at the sneaker stores throughout the city. I'm on tour right now but as soon as I get some down time, I'm back at home base showing love.
How did you guys develop a relationship?
Well we all had mutual friends actually and me and Mikey Rocks went to school in the same neighborhood. They were already well known and I was grinding at the time. When the time was right we were introduced and the vibe was good. It's been all good ever since.
What's your label situation?
As of now I'm not signed, I've just been blessed to have some genuine people involved with my music who support me and use their connects to plug me and put me in the right position to shine. Right now I'm on tour with Patrick Stump who was the lead singer of Fall Out Boy, as well as Wynter Gordon. Its an amazing thing for me, they are signed artists and I'm not. I'm establishing myself.
With all the buzz and support comes expectation, are you burdened by that?
More than anything or anyone else I place the burden of expectation on myself. I feel like I have more to experience in life and more growing to do as a man. That's what I expect of myself. To always get better. As I go places and see new things, I soak it all in and live off the experience and apply it to my career and life in general. The world is bigger than Chicago and I'm learning that.
What would you say to that person out there who feels like dreams and goals cant happen?
I would tell them honestly to hit me up and I will keep it real with them. Rap was not my choice you know, I wanted to do other things. I didnt wanna be a rapper, I ended up developing my craft. I honestly came from the bottom and I'm on my way to the top. You have to have faith in God; thats the only explanation I can give for me being where I'm at today.
Some critics say that the rap game is oversaturated what do you say to that?
Theres definitely a lot rappers so I can see why someone would say that and honestly I may have to agree. However I feel like the right person always comes along and they give the people what they need and with that they can make it and seperate themself. The game is turning over in my eyes. The superstars like Kanye and Hov are getting older so its time for new faces, new ideas, new flows, new approaches. Thats what the new generation, artists like me are bringing to the table.
Whats next for Rockie Fresh? Any plans on going major or are you gonna keep up wit the Indie movement?
Ever since I had plans on becoming an artist full fledge my goal was to reach the masses. Sometimes indie artists or underground as they call it, get a false sense of security due to the popularity that comes; I haven't though. I want to make a classic album and be considered one of the best. In order to do that I need a machine behind me. I need a deal. I love what I'm doing right now, and I'm young so I have time, but when its all said and done I want to make a classic album and to do that you have to have a record deal. Record labels have the resources. Right now we're just touring as I said and finishing up the next project that will be out in October. Working towards classic status.
Main stream or Indie, whats the difference? Now a days the answer surely is not success. Gone are the days of the golden era of rap, and with it, the numbers: albums sold, sold out arenas, and endorsements. Now-a-days true artists, those that are passionate, those who are truly creative and accessible get their music to the public by any means. Often times its the free download. Digital Marketing has paved the way for the development of cult like followings for unsigned artists resulting in more publicity and relevance at times than their signed counterparts. Take Rockie Fresh for example. Indie by definition, which a few years back had such a demeaning connotation to it. These days Indie means fresh, trend setting. A part of the in-crowd some would say.
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Written by Devin Cobbs
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Nation Ruckus the Canadian Bred eclectic and energizing trio is just what the iduatrys been missing.Rappers Milk-E Fresh, the multi instrumentalist/beat-maker Quality and DJ WiM are the ingredients that give you the formula of Nation Ruckus. Beginning as a high-school band formerly known as the 4Ds they made a splash onto the music scene, performing for local crowds as well as winning local music awards. With an hotly anticipated album "Boombox Manifesto" dropping October 8th 2011 the group gives there fans a sample of the album with their "Fresh 2 Def Thursdays". Comparing to an old school mix of brash punch lines and all around flavor Nation Ruckus leaves no room for competition or comparison.
Rooted in the culture of Montreal Nation Ruckus provides diversity, with an untouchable aura filled with inspiration from the 90's. Inspired by iconic artist such as RUN DMC, OutKast and the Beastie Boys. When asked about some of the artist that inspire music DJ WiM responded saying, "A Tribe called Quest The Fugees, Ice cube and Eazy E all inspire me. I find myself listening to old school albums."
Incorporating the old school into the new school is what Nation Ruckus does best, delivering brash lyrics mixed with thrashing beats capturing the essence of Hip-Hop.
Fresh 2 Def Thursday's, a simple way to promote the album giving fans a taste of what is in store for
BoomBox Manifesto. "The Anthem" the latest track released from the group featuring Canada's own Mugs. A collection of Hip-Hop bangers, energectic music mixed with an alternative sound is what BoomBox Manifesto consist of. Milk-E Fresh stated "The album is really is big, some new sounds and new music and really unique and alot of emotions. We wanted to show our fans that we have alot of emotions. We want to blow out people's mind."
Nation Ruckus' latest project BoomBox Manifesto will be released October 8, 2011 until the Fresh 2 Def Thursdays is where all listeners can find new music from Nation Ruckus. Bringing it back to the old school, collectively capturing the essence of Hip-Hop, Nation Ruckus is paving a path of greatness. Establishing themselves as the next big thing.
Websites:
NationRuckus.Com
Twitter.com/NationRuckus
Nation Ruckus the Canadian Bred eclectic and energizing trio is just what the industry has been missing. Rappers Milk-E Fresh, the multi instrumentalist/beat-maker Quality and DJ WiM are the ingredients that give you the formula of Nation Ruckus. Beginning as a high-school band formerly known as the 4Ds they made a splash onto the music scene, performing for local crowds as well as winning local music awards. With a much anticipated album, Boombox Manifesto dropping this coming October 8th the group is planning to give their fans a sample of the album with their "Fresh 2 Def Thursdays". With an old school mix of brash punch lines and all around flavor, Nation Ruckus leaves no room for competition or comparison.
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Written by A.D.
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Music holds a special place in all our lives rather it be a favorite song, artist or maybe you’re like me and it’s only when you hear a particular piece of music that it triggers a memory dear to you. Whatever the case may be, we can all agree that music has had a profound influence in our lives. For alternative soul artist Peter Baldwin music has been such a major influence in life that he decided to become one. He didn’t stop there by just becoming a musician he created his own genre of music, which is something not many current artists can say, in order to pay tribute to all the styles that have influenced him throughout the years. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Peter to discuss his particular brand of music, his EP and those very same influences that inspired his towards a life of music.
This young Alaskan native is no new comer to the music scene. Growing up in Anchorage where alot of the music scene was mainly rock, indie and folk, young Baldwin’s family was involved in the church, his father a pastor, it was there that he would draw inspiration from gospel music to spark his love affair with music. It wasn’t until he moved to Orlando Florida to attend Full Sail University to study the recording arts. “My Senior of high school, I was into making but it wasn't until I moved to Orlando for school that I really started getting into it. I found myself cutting class to record and practice which I don’t recommend it,” says Baldwin as he reminiscences. He recalls the days he’d spent in college practicing and writing music with friends for the fun of it with no thoughts about pursuing a career in music. “At the time, I just loved to write and perform. I still do and I’m lucky to be in a position that allows me to be creative.”
Unlike many current artists today, Peter Baldwin’s musical style is so unique that he had to invent his own genre of music, which he calls alternative soul. “Alternative Soul takes a lot of elements from different styles like soul, gospel, indie rock, folk, jazz , hip hop and some pop overtones. It’s a fusion of all these things.” Says Baldwin. When asked if his style of music could be compared to any current artists, Baldwin jokingly replies, “I’ve been told I sound like John Legend which is a compliment but I don’t really see it.” Baldwin makes it a point not to try to label himself under any particular genre since he finds inspiration from all types. The term for the genre "Alternative Soul" was so that Baldwin could experinement with the type of music he likes and not be forced to stick to a certain style of music.
Baldwin’s Vodville EP under his label Rock Ya Girl Records in late July when asked if doing an EP instead of an album was a conscious decision, “This is my first studio release and I wanted to do an EP for now to give the public a chance to get to know me and my music. I plan on doing a full album in the future to expand more with my music but right now this is my introduction.” Baldwin recommends that the readers and Fan can check out YouTube for Peter Baldwin’s video for his single “Suicide Girl”. He also clarified that Rock Ya Girl Records isn’t just another label, “We’re all about helping aspiring artists grow. Right now we’re just getting started but hopefully in the future we’ll be able to sign new artists.”
Vodville EP may be Baldwin’s first studio album but he’s opened for such acts as Joss Stone, Mayer Hawthrone and Earth, Wind and Fire. “It's different every time but every artists I’ve worked with so far as been a pleasure to work." Baldwin recalls the time, he got to meet Joss Stone who was a fan of his music. "I was surprised that she had actually heard my music and knew who i was that was kind of a big shock to me." Touring with such big name hit hasn't swollen Baldwin's ego, he still manages to stay true to his roots and fans, "I'm always looking to improve myself, everyone should but the feedback from critics and fans have been more than supportive. I'm not looking to become a career orientated artists but to play towards my fans even its in smaller venues." Baldwin hopes to someday make music for movies for people to enjoy.
Peter Baldwin sounds off with some words of advice to the readers and fans: “Keep going at something you know you’re good at. I’ve been able to find a talent that works for me and I hope others can do the same. Try not to get trapped under what others may expect from you and rise above it.”
For the readers and fans who are interested they can buy Peter Baldwin’s Vodville EP on Amazon and Itunes. For updates and more be sure to visit www.peterbaldwinrocks.com, follow him on twitter www.twitter.com/peterbaldwin, Facebook www.facebook.com/peterbaldwinrocks and YouTube www.youtube.com/peterbaldwinmusic.
Music holds a special place in all our lives, whether it be a favorite song, artist or maybe you’re like me and it’s only when you hear a particular piece of music that it triggers a memory dear to you. Whatever the case may be, we can all agree that music has had a profound influence in our lives. For alternative soul artist, Peter Baldwin, music has been such a major influence in life that he decided to become a musician. He didn’t stop there, he created his own genre of music in order to pay tribute to all the styles that have influenced him throughout the years. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Peter to discuss his particular brand of music, his EP and those very same influences that inspired him towards a life of music.
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Written by Devin Cobbs
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Mic Blaque, Brooklyn's born engineer and rapper is reconstructing the Hip-Hop industry. Inspired by his upbringing as well as Hip-Hop heavyweights Nas and Raekwon amongst others. The passionate lyricist took a minute to speak to me about his mixtape, The Twilight Zone as well as his beginnings in music.
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Spotlight Feature
Sometimes, it must fall upon the journalist to ensure that what they are hearing in an interview is clear enough that they can truthfully and accurately present their subject's words as quotations. This may require asking for an answer repeatedly, admitting you missed something that could have been important, or actively picking and choosing which quotes should be completely captured in a form of verbal triage. Other times, it may simply require asking the subject to slow down because your cell phone's speaker is woefully inadequate. Such was the case with Kirko Bangz, and regrettably, I did not follow the advice laid out above. The following is what I can transcribe from my conversation with the Houston hopeful, whose Drake on promethazine approach has been reverberating within the scene.
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