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Written by Tameeca Diejuste
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Say “Bye Bye” to Google, Youtube, Twitter, Facebook , craigslist, and all the sites that you interact with your friends on, retain your social gossip from, and have fun with. SOPA the act to stop online piracy has many young people, and adults infuriated because its paying may mean the end to all those sites.
The act aims to limit, if not completely hault the access to sites that provide information they do not have the rights too. Although the act has good intentions, many believe that the way it is written will cause a downfall for not only site owners, but bloggers, rappers, singers, designers, and everyone else who uses the internet as a main source of income or publicity.
Congress believes that this act will help balance and control the amount of copyright infringement on the internet. People against the act think that this is just another way for the government to control us, as a whole. Many are going as far as saying that we no longer live in a democracy, and we no longer have a president. Those people are saying that if SOPA is passed, we can refer to our president as “King Obama.”
Since the announcement of the act , congress has lost a few supporters due to the very public protest of sites such as Google, and Wikipedia. What are your thoughts on the act?
Say “Bye Bye” to Google, Youtube, Twitter, Facebook , craigslist, and all the sites that you interact with your friends on, retain your social gossip from, and have fun with. SOPA the act to stop online piracy has many young people, and adults infuriated because its paying may mean the end to all those sites.
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Written by Kevin Benoit
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It’s still very early in the year but already there has been lots of talk about the albums people are looking forward to this year. However, given the state of the music industry, none of those albums are guaranteed for release this year... or ever. If you're looking for proof of that, look no further than last year's list of most anticipated albums. So instead of assuming that any of these projects will actually see the light of day, I decided to switch things up a bit on my list. I've included my list of most anticipated, but I've also included reasons why they probably won't come out this year--if ever.
Just give up on it already!:
Dr. Dre - Detox
Really though? It's over.
Too Early To Tell:
Blue Ivy Carter - Seriously though, with all the buzz she created in the last week alone, her parents could release an album of her cries over Kanye beats and I'm pretty sure it would go Platinum. They already have the single, "Glory" and as long as the album features a couple of appearance from B, no one will dare complain. But B and Hov probably don't want to share the limelight, not even with their first born. Still, don't be surprised if they name their next album after her.
Kendrick Lamar - I'm going on record to say he is to 2012 what Jay Electronica was to 2011. Precisely. He'll probably get a deal and sign to another artist and he'll probably be on the shelf until who knows when. Sorry Kendrick.
Lupe Fiasco & Pharrell -
I guess Kanye is too busy making millions with Jay-z to be bothered with the CRS project. So Lupe and Pharrell have decided to join forces to do it on their own. Problem here is that they're still on different labels. A mixtape maybe, album, hmm I doubt it.
Ludacris - Ludaversal
Ludacris has been talking about this project for close to 3 years. If he's been working as hard on it as he claims than its going to be a resurgence of the Ludacris that topped charts. I hope for his sake that it is all that and more. But it seems I'm the only that noticed Luda dissed Drake and Big Sean before Common did. If people don't care for a beef, than they probably won't care for your album either.
Busta Rhymes -
Did anyone else notice the year that Busta Rhymes had in 2011??? The signing to Cash Money was the best thing he could do to end his year, except that it was also the worst thing he could do. Unless Universal just let's Birdman throw everything out there, I'm not sure there will be enough room for this release this year. But if it does come out, Busta won't disappoint.
Slaughterhouse -
The Shady deal is done. The hype has been built. Rumors of new members have been denied. Time for a new album right? I sure hope so. There's too much potential there to have it all go to waste without a classic caliber release. But will Eminem let it fly? If it comes down to him or Slaughterhouse I know who he'll pick.
Nicki Minaj - Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded
Although her debut single, "Roman In Moscow" hasn't really picked up, I would think she's still on schedule for a Valentine's Day release because she gets the benefit of a performance at this year's Grammy Awards. Now that the hype is gone I look forward to seeing what Nicki does to propel this album. If she messes up, this may be the end of the road for her.
Rick Ross - God Forgives, I Don't
Many are disappointed that they wasn't released last year, but guess Mr. Rozay was too busy building his Maybach Music brand. It will be interesting to see what he raps about on this project since he's put out so much music in the last couple of years. He's close to needing a 3 year hiatus to rejuvenate himself, but if this next project is the best stuff of his career, he'll be ok.
Jay-Z & Kanye - Watch The Throne 2
If you think they aren't going to capitalize on all the money they made last year then you're kidding yourself. There will be a part 2, and people will flock to the stores and the shows once again.
T.I. -
Is he still King? With a lot to prove and a dwindling fanbase T.I. needs to release the album of the year, point blank. He knows how to create a buzz around his music and Atlantic Records needs him to have success so I expect him to be their focus. If timed correctly, this will be the biggest release of the year.
(And Why They'll Probably Get Pushed Back)
It’s still very early in the year but already there has been lots of talk about the albums people are looking forward to this year. However, given the state of the music industry, none of those albums are guaranteed for release this year... or ever. If you're looking for proof of that, look no further than last year's list of most anticipated albums. So instead of assuming that any of these projects will actually see the light of day, I decided to switch things up a bit on my list. I've included my list of most anticipated, but I've also included reasons why they probably won't come out this year--if ever.
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Written by Kevin Benoit
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These lists are always hard to complete, but I had to remind myself that these were the songs that I believed in my heart of hearts were the best. Obviously, everyone won't agree, but hopefully I'm not too far off from the general consensus. If nothing else, it should make for great conversations. So here goes, the top 10 tracks of 2011...
10. “My Last” – Big Sean
Originally not featured on my list, I had to listen to the track a few more times in the last couple of days to appreciate just how big this song was, not just for Sean & Chris, but for the airwaves this year. It wasn’t what you expected from Sean to lead off his album, but it got the job done and it proved to be the perfect mainstream introduction for Sean.
9. "Grenade" - Bruno Mars
The song was originally released towards the end of 2010, but picked up speed early 2011. A song about unrequited love, Mars pleads and croons to his lover about the things he's willing to do for her, but knows in his heart that she won't do the same for him.
8. “Ass On The Floor” – Diddy – Dirty Money featuring Swizz Beatz
A feel good record that had the clubs rocking for half the year, Diddy found himself one of the party anthems of the year with the help of veteran producer, Swizz Beats and his female duo. One of many records Diddy unleashed this year off Last Train, “Ass On The Floor” was the one that helped keep the focus on the project. Thumbs up sir.
7. "Best Thing I Never Had" - Beyonce
You can argue that up to 5 Beyonce songs could be pulled from a hat that would be worthy of this list. While I always hate to admit, Beyonce had a pretty good year and a pretty good album. "Best Thing I Never Had" is just a very well written track, which was developed by a team of writers including Beyonce, Patrick "J Que" Smith & Babyface who also serves as one of the song's producers.
6. "Sure Thing" - Miguel
This could easily be changed for Miguel's "Quickie", but the stronghold the song had on airwaves early this year was incredible. In a year filled with sad sings and break-up anthems, Miguel lead the way with something positive for the happy couples. He may even deserve a spot higher than 6.
5. "N*ggas In Paris" - Jay-Z & Kanye West
Jay-Z and Kanye fans will be mad this isn't higher on my list... But Jay-Z & Kanye fans should be happy this made my list. The entire album was well below my expectations and "Paris" wasn't even the best song on the album. While the braggadocious raps and the bass heavy beat make for a major club record, and the arrangement with its comic relief and change of pace outro add to the excitement, "N*ggas In Paris" is still no "Diamonds" Remix or even "Run This Town."
4. "Look At Me Now" - Chris Brown featuring Busta Rhymes & Lil' Wayne
A sure winner for collaboration of the year at the upcoming Grammy Awards, Chris Brown found himself a record that would officially put the past behind him. At the same time, Wayne got the necessary push for his top selling Carter IV and Busta Rhymes has reemerged as a dominate voice in Hip-Hop.
3. "Someone Like You" - Adele
Another sure Grammy winner, Adele catapulted to the top of the charts with the help of this song and she has garnered an army of new fans in the process. It's a genuine hit that will live on for years.
2. "How To Love" - Lil' Wayne
Initially I wasn't impressed with the sing-a-long single by the Young Money leader. However, once the video was released and I took a moment to listen to the words, I realized just how special this song actually was. It's unlike anything in his career and we haven't heard something like this on the radio or seen a vi like this on tv for years.
1. "Motivation" - Kelly Rowland
"Go, go, go.". I don't care where you went this year, when Kelly Rowland's voice hit with that first line of her song, you got focused. Whether it was dancing in tune with the video or singing along to every word, Kelly helped listeners get back on board with her in 2011. If only she could've capitalized with more stand-out tracks and features before the year was out.
Just short:
J Cole's "Workout", which is a great sample of Kanye's "Workout" plan, and quite frankly should've been the focus for Cole this year instead of the track with Trey.
Beyonce's "Dance On You" could easily stand alone here. Although it wasn't a major single, it got heavy rotation from me in 2011.
And another sample/remake, "Lay Your Head" from Lloyd didn't get enough spotlight if you ask me. Sampling Raphael Saadiq & Patti Labelle, Lloyd put his own flavor on a song that was already a classic. Hard to go wrong with that one, Lloyd fan or not.
"Ambition" – Wale featuring Meek Mill & Rick Ross - With all the music these guys put out in 2011 they had to have something on this list. Trying to determine which song became the issue. While they all had individual and collaborative hits, "Ambition" stands out by having the best overall verses from each member of the crew. The track wasn't a single, but as the title track for Wale's sophomore album, it stands out as one of the top Hip-Hop tracks of the year.
These lists are always hard to complete, but I had to remind myself that these were the songs that I believed in my heart of hearts were the best. Obviously, everyone won't agree, but hopefully I'm not too far off from the general consensus. If nothing else, it should make for great conversations. So here goes, the top 10 tracks of 2011...
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Written by Jeffrey Barreau
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Overall, 2011 was not an extraordinary year for hip hop music. I read the word “classic” used often by reviewers to describe some of the albums of this past year, and I found it grossly inaccurate. It was a solid year and some really good music came out, but it’s hard to think of an album from this year that I can see myself still playing heavily even just 2 to 3 years from now. The lows of the year, it seems the trend of duet albums that started in 2010 continued, but it backfired resulting in lackluster efforts from some of the major artists. I think we all could’ve lived without Wiz Khalifa/Snoop or Gucci Mane/Wacka Flocka Flame. Eminem and Royce have put out much better work than “Hell: The Sequel”, and as catchy and successful ‘Niggas in Paris’ became as a single, Jay-Z and Kanye are capable of much more than the wildly uneven “Watch The Throne”. Lupe Fiasco’s “Lasers”, perhaps the most anticipated hip hop album of the past THREE years, was a complete disappointment. The highs of the year, many new artists emerged, such as Kendrick Lamar, Tyler the Creator and Action Bronson, and they all but stole the show from the vets and have the potential to all have very impressive catalogues in the years to come. The highest selling “hip hop” artist Drake, fully realized his effectiveness as an r&b artist, (with a matching Aaliyah tattoo to boot!) resulting in his sophomore album “Take Care” being much more of an artistic expression than his generic sounding debut album last year. A few veterans dropped some bangers as well, most notably Common making a comeback of sorts, and Tech N9ne pushing himself into mainstream consciousness. Again, nothing especially noteworthy or truly “classic”, but some solid music came out this year. Here are my top ten choices of the year, in no particular order, for the hip hop inclined. You might see names you do not recognize, but really its 2012, if you’re still just listening to what is force fed to you on your hot radio station, you probably should’ve remained in 2003.
Kendrick Lamar – Section. 80
In years past he was clumped together with the likes of Dom Kennedy and Fashawn as one of the emerging artists in California. This year, with the release of “Section. 80”, he has emerged as THE artist in California. His lyricism and creativity has already leapfrogged that of The Game. His choice of song concepts are impeccable, and delivered with such sincerity that he could make any type of listener relate to the frustrations and potential traps coming of age in the City of Angels. He’s working with 90% talent and 10% marketing but he’s already an internet heavyweight and landed spots on Drake’s album and Dr Dre’s yet to be released “De-tox”. He’s going to be someone a lot of artists will want to work with in 2012.
Reks – Rhythmatic Eternal King Supreme
Reks has been well respected for being a hard-hitting straightforward lyricist of the highest order. That respect got him the most prolific producers in underground hip hop to contribute to his 2011 album “Rhythmatic Eternal King Supreme”. DJ Premier, Hi-Tek, Alchemist, Pete Rock, Statik Selectah, you name him, Reks has a beat from him, and spit some vicious bars over it. If you like your hip hop raw, no-frills, unapologetic, lyricism + boom bap, this was the best this year had to offer.
Tyler the Creator – Goblin
You have to give Tyler the Creator some credit, based on his shocking but charismatic persona and a cult internet following, has forced his way into mainstream pop culture with music that is far from radio friendly. We’ve heard this stuff before, for years, Brotha Lynch Hung, Necro & even Eminem have already pushed the envelope with shocking lyrics that include stuff like rape, suicide, drug abuse, cannibalism etc. Tyler found a way to do it to make it seem almost cute and trendy, like a Hollister brand version of a snuff tape. Time will tell if he can improve his lyrical dexterity and can evolve beyond shock appeal, “Goblin” was nonetheless one of the more intriguing cuts of 2011.
Pharoah Monch - W.A.R. We Are Renegades
Pharoah Monch has always straddled the fence between being a socio-political “conscious” MC, and one that just wants to kick provactive bars and have a good time. This album saw him standle firmly on the side of the socio-political commentary. It is not for everyone, it can come across as preachy and quite frankly the lyrics are so layered and intelligent they will go over a lot of listener’s intellectual grasp. Nonetheless it was a joy to the veteran MC kick master level rhymes about stuff that really mattered. The “Assasins” track featuring Royce Da 5’9 and Jean Grae simply has to be heard if you’re a lyricist aficionado.
Royce Da 5’9 - Success is Certain
Royce had a good year, his collab album with Eminem as well as the lyrical massacre his slaughterhouse camp performed on national TV on the BET Hip Hop Awards got him a brand new audience. With “Success is Certain” he didn’t abandon the message board point and click crowd that supported him with zero mainstream exposure these past couple of years. It was a just solid release that builds adequate anticipation for his future solo projects as well as future collabos with Eminem and Slaughterhouse.
The Roots – undun
This is perhaps the closest to “classic” of an album that you are going hear from 2011. “undun” is a high quality conceptual album in which The Roots with a few strategic guests try to paint the picture of the life of a young Philly drug dealer from beginning to end. They went all out and released it with a short film, and a multimedia Iphone app to really drive the story home. The album was just too short, and there were too many instrumental tracks so that the listener could really emphasize with the protagonist of the story. What we are left with is still a powerful and innovative artistic statement from the legendary hip hop band.
Action Bronson – “Dr. Lector” & “Well Done”
With these two stellar releases Action Bronson has established himself as the preeminent buzz rapper from NYC. If you haven’t heard him before, be prepared to hear a fat, white, Albanian street kid from Queens, who sounds strikingly just like Ghostface, has the mature street suave of a Kool G Rap or Ill Bill, and is quite comfortable laying lyrics down in a laid back stream of conscious flow similar to MF Doom. It’s an odd mix but bottom line, this dude has obviously studied the best of New York MC’ing and has enough charisma and talent help carry the torch of that east coast street flow well into 2012 and beyond.
The Game - The R.E.D. Album
This album is probably going to end up being the pinnacle of The Game’s career. He pushed his limited lyrical talent to the excess. He reclaimed the support of Dr. Dre and enlists his production as well as DJ Premier, Pharrell, Bangladesh, Cool & Dre, DJ Khalil, and just about any hot producer you can think of. He also gets guest verses from Lil Wayne, Tyler the Creater, Kendrick Lamar, Snoop, Drake and just about any hot artist you can think of. The end result with all that firepower still isn’t the “Illmatic” “Doggystyle” or “Ready to Die” that The Game always wanted to create, but he does what he does best, which spit it out sincerely as a true student, disciple and consummate fan of gangsta rap.
Lil Wayne - The Carter IV
His material is still ignorant and overly reliant and simple punch lines (“I’m running shit I’m on my cardio/I’m going in, like my water broke”), but Weezy has evolved. He would’ve have never put out songs like “How to Love” or the introspective “Nightmares From the Bottom” five years ago. His album could’ve been front to back filled with catchy punch like those found on “John” and he would’ve easily still sold just as much as he sold, but give the dude credit for taking risks. The album is good time, but it has some substance to it. The interlude “cipher” featuring Tech N9ne, Andre 3000, Bun B, Shyne, NaS, and Busta Rhymes is also one of the standout moments of this year.
Elzhi – Elmatic
I’ve always had the utmost for Elzhi and considered him one the top MCs we’ve had on the underground for the past decade. Notheless when I heard he was recording “Elmatic” a tribute album to NaS’s “Illmatic” I wanted to slap him. “Illmatic” is the greatest hip hop album of all time, I don’t even think it’s even debatable at this point; it’s the epitome of what hip hop as an artform is supposed to sound like. It’s like if Darren Aronofsky remade Stanley Kubrick’s “2001 Space Oddesey”. Darren Aronofsky is a competent director, perhaps even the best in the business presently (go watch “Black Swan” or “Requiem for A Dream”) but some pieces of art you just don’t touch. Nas himself doesn’t even try to equal or eclipse “Illmatic”. As 2011 winds down, I’ve had a year to bump and absorb “Elmatic”, I still want to smack “Elzhi” but I respectthe tribute. He captures the feel of that album and reframes it in his Detriot style. Sonically it updates the sound but doesn’t try to one-up it. It truly is homage, and I can appreciate that.
Other noteworthy albums that just missed my top ten:
DJ Quik – Book of David
Drake – Take Care
Raekwon – Shaolin Vs. Wutang
Saigon – The Great Story Never Told
Random Axe – Random Axe
Curren$y – Covert Coup
Dessa – Castor, The Twin
The Cunninlynguists – Oneirology
Overall, 2011 was not an extraordinary year for Hip-Hop music. I read the word “classic” used often by reviewers to describe some of the albums of this past year, and I found it grossly inaccurate. It was a solid year and some really good music came out, but it’s hard to think of an album from this year that I can see myself still playing heavily even just 2 to 3 years from now. The lows of the year, it seems the trend of duet albums that started in 2010 continued, but it backfired resulting in lackluster efforts from some of the major artists. I think we all could’ve lived without Wiz Khalifa/Snoop or Gucci Mane/Wacka Flocka Flame. Eminem and Royce have put out much better work than Hell: The Sequel, and as catchy and successful "Niggas in Paris" became as a single, Jay-Z and Kanye are capable of much more than the wildly uneven Watch The Throne. Lupe Fiasco’s Lasers, perhaps the most anticipated Hip-Hop album of the past THREE years, was a complete disappointment.
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Written by Shemiah WIlliams
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1. COMPLAIN – It’s often said that it never solves anything, so why do it? Turn your criticism (even if it’s aimed inward) into positivity by taking steps to correct or improve a situation. For example, if you’re unhappy with your job, replace the energy for complaining with something productive such as reviewing your resume for updates, looking for other positions or jobs, or identifying training opportunities to help you advance with your current employer. However, remember to perform any job-hunting activities on your own time or during your lunch hour or they might end your misery prematurely.
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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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