DJ M.G. Hip Hop Haven

Masta Ace Inc. - Saturday Night Live

2011-12-05T12:17:00.000-08:00

I was listening to jams on my ipod on my way to work and this made me smile and laugh out loud, "And I work to get my loot, shoot. I'm turning heads like a handicapped prostitute." - Masta Ace

So here it is, enjoy this jam off an amazing LP "Slaughtahouse".

Enjoy,
M.G.

Hubbs- Cross My Heart

2011-11-17T10:07:00.000-08:00

I have been out of the loop for a little bit but I"m back with a great update. I've been offline for a while with a new job, schedule and still training and competing with weightlifting. Back on track here with a new video by Hubbs (directed by Antuks) titled Cross My Heart. This is a really good jam and shot very well throughout the Pittsburgh area. And it doesn't hurt having the company of a beautiful woman in the process. Here it is...

Enjoy,

M.G.

J Sands- Jobs (Video)

2011-10-01T08:20:00.000-07:00

I am making my hip hop video debut on the video for Jobs off the LP The Poet Tree of Life 2011 . Was very proud to be a part of it, I really dig the video. I've been a fan of Lone Catalysts and J Sands for quite sometime, was cool to be involved. Here it is...

Enjoy,
M.G.

Amuck- The Reason (Wiz Khalifa Diss)

2011-09-16T09:40:00.000-07:00

In the world of music, conflict comes with the territory. It makes sense, it's ultra competitive and the ultimate weapon you posess is your voice. In sport, athletes talk trash all the time to their competitors. It's the nature of competition and one's journey to be the best. We are afforded the right of freedom of speech in the United States of America and I feel too many people do not take advantage of this. With that being said I introduce you to a talented and aggressive artist that I have featured on this blog before and he's backing up his answers to a previous feature with an honest song about his feelings on Wiz Khalifa. I will let you appreciate the track on your own and encourage you to support Amuck if you like what you hear and voice your opinions.

"like" Amuck on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/N%C3%A4kturnal/118747091480824?sk=info#!/Amuck412

Enjoy,
M.G.

Tyler The Creator's Win Is Good For Music

2011-09-13T20:34:00.000-07:00

Tyler The Creator won the 2011 MTV Music Award for Best New Artist. This is definitely an important moment for any artist who is newer to the industry and looking to leave their mark. Obviously this is a good thing for Tyler and his crew (OFWGKTA)., but I feel this win represents a major victory for music of all genres as well.

I do not respect MTV for its direction for the past 20+ years. The ridiculous reality show dominant network has really steered away from its original mission to provide an outlet for music videos and news. It has preyed on the youth by showing mindless programming and shows with almost zero substance. With that being said, it would be ignorant not to recognize the influence MTV has on our popular culture. Which makes it that more surprising that they gave the nod to Tyler The Creator for an award where the other nominees had so much more support from the network as well as other mainstream radio and major label backing. I truly feel this moment represented so much more than one person and one award. This was not only on a national stage but a world stage. And an independent artist just walked out on stage and said..”Fuck the system.” Staying completely within his image and music, Tyler just put his stamp on something that I would consider the music industry going through a phase of equilibrium.

There is a reason why I am writing about him, there is a reason why you are reading this and there is a reason why we are listening to him. He is different, entertaining, crazy, vulnerable, unstable, raw and refreshingly off. Tyler The Creator is doing everything on his terms. He’s producing a lot of his own music, making his own beats, writing his own songs, even making his own videos. There are thousands of people just like him making music all over the country. There are rock bands, mc’s, open mic singers every night “grinding” to perfect their craft in hopes of reaching as many people as they can who just might dig their music. There are musicians recording their own music, self promoting their acts and hoping to make it to a larger level. This award for Tyler goes out to all of you who are in your house studios and your garage making the best music you can. This award just kicked the crap out of major label investments and musicians under mainstream management teams. Tyler isn’t a part of Roc-A-Fella Records, he isn’t managed by Chris Lighty and isn’t on Tour sponsored by Coca-Cola. Tyler is represented by Tyler. Period.

I feel that in all aspects of life that no matter what is going on, everything returns to a certain level of simplicity. I feel like we have reached one of those moments. It’s about the music. In an industry that is just that, music, often times it’s everything but the music that is being made. It’s a new time we are reaching and I feel it’s an exciting one. Music software needed to record and produce music is cheaper than ever and much more accessible. People are taking responsibility to have control over their music by making it themselves and artists are teaming up to do features on each other’s albums. It’s becoming more about the music and less about the name that’s on the music cover. I feel this is an exciting time for music and I really feel MTV wasn’t just recognizing Tyler The Creator, they were recognizing everyone who is out there doing it on their own. They just showed people that you don’t have to have a large advance from Warner Bros. and regular radio play to be relevant in the music scene. People are casting their votes by downloading albums that are available by the artist for free, and purchasing songs they want to listen to, not what radio stations or tv is feeding them. People are stepping up and saying we like what we like. It’s refreshing.

This goes out to all the musicians working hard and playing live shows, making their own music and giving it everything they have. It is worth it, people are listening and more importantly if you are proud of your work then that is all that truly counts at the end of the day. I will end this piece with a quote from J Sands, “The best advice I ever got in life is don’t stop.”

Enjoy,
M.G.

DJ M.G. Weightroom Jams Vol1. Mixtape

2011-09-09T15:11:00.000-07:00

Free Download of my mixtape inspired by previous entries of streamed songs that were compiled to get you reved up in the weightroom. You will need .rar archive to unzip the mp3's. It's free and you can get here http://www.win-rar.com/website/index.php?id=start&L=0

1. Pusha T featuring Tyler The Creator- Trouble On My Mind
2. Beatnuts- Reign Of The Tec
3. House Of Pain Feat. B-Real- Put Your Head Out
4. J Sands- Manifest
5. MC Lyte- 10% Diss
6. Wu-Tang Clan- 16th Chamber ODB Special
7. Immortal Technique- 3rd World
8. Allen Iverson- 40 Bars
9. Fort Minor- Dedicated
10.Nas- N.Y. State Of Mind
11.RUN-DMC- Beats To The Rhymes
12.Tha Dogg Pound- I Fears No One
13.Ghostface Killah- Assassination Day
14.Spice 1- Born 2 Die
15.Wu-Tang Clan- Protect Ya Neck
Download:

http://www.mediafire.com/?p12bihkbjh9pu1x

Enjoy,
M.G.

Some Friday Funk

2011-08-26T09:29:00.000-07:00

Sound Familiar?

and...

Enjoy,
M.G.

APEX Sound Travel

2011-08-24T10:02:00.000-07:00

I am way more than fashionably late to this party, but I'm here to showcase a solid LP by APEX titled Sound Travel. All production is done by the very talented Czientist. This is APEX's third full length album and it definitely takes you on a journey to say the least with some very original sound combined with great lyrical flow. Great features by DJ Vex, Varsity Squad, Verbs, Roscoe Wiki of Commonwealth Family, Vaig Miss Simone, Ayatollah Jaxx and others. Download the album at:

http://www.datpiff.com/APEX-Sound-Travel-mixtape.254758.html

You can also download APEX debut release Face The Musik on iTunes:
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/face-the-musik/id282105454

Their sophomore release Struggle City on iTunes:
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/struggle-city/id343212572

APEX on Facebook:
www.facebook.com/apexonline
APEX on Twitter:
www.twitter.com/apexonline
APEX on Bandcamp:
www.apex.bandcamp.com

Enjoy,
M.G.

Amuck "Asymmetry" EP Is The Real Deal

2011-08-17T09:13:00.000-07:00

photography by Emily Boarts

Pittsburgh music fans definitely got an early Christmas present this summer with the release of Asymmetry from Amuck. This is a very aggressive album that reengergizes your senses and feelings towards music in 2011. This is a hard hitting release with some talented features. Great production by Sikes on all tracks with the exception of Amalgamate which was produced by Kiltervision, Amuck and Sikes. Pearl Dragon, Kiltervision and Onry Ozzborn brought some great vocals as solid features on the album. Amuck's genuine and dynamic lyrical ability make this refreshing becasue this is the music these men wanted to make at the end of the day. No one is telling these talented artists what to do or what to put out. That fact along with music that inspires me is why I definitely put my stamp on this EP. I was able to sit down and talk to Amuck about Asymmetry and dig deeper into this effort.

Cosmological Poise is a strong opener for the EP, what was the choice to place this as the opener?

It’s funny; this was actually a beat that Sikes made for me a whopping three years ago. I wrote some stuff for it and it almost made the Improbabilities disc, but it just felt too contrived and it ended up getting scrapped.

A little while later I heard the Big Boi track “Feel Me”, which is the intro to the “Sir Lucious Left Foot” LP. It totally blew me out of the water. Even though it was only a few minutes long, I found that it had more longevity and replay value than any other track on the disc (which says a lot because it’s a great disc). I was inspired and I wanted to set the kind of tone on my next album that would leave people saying, “Damn...and that was just the intro!”

So I went back to that beat with the proper mindset and this time around I was able to do it justice. I knew there was a reason that the beat stuck with me for three years, and hopefully it sticks with my listeners for much longer than that.

Couldn’t help but notice the lines in Divergence of Character where you call out Wiz Khalifa. Can you elaborate a little more on your reasoning for doing so?

I think his music is terrible. I actually think that a lot of people around here feel the same way but are afraid to express it. They’re afraid because Pittsburgh doesn’t have any other mainstream “Rap Stars”, so they feel like if they don’t support the local guy they are doing a disservice to the city. The reality is that they are doing a bigger disservice to the city by supporting him. It perpetuates this idea that we (Pittsburgers) will gladly eat up whatever runny, steamy pile of elephant shit the big labels want to drop on us, given that the runny, steamy pile of elephant shit happens to come in black and yellow wrapping paper. It’s exploitation at its finest.

In my experiences, whenever Wiz Khalifa is criticized, there’s always that one guy in the room that goes to bat for him by saying “Yeah, but he seems like a really chill dude”. I fell into that category, deterred from the attack because he seems like a perfectly harmless, mouth-breathing, stoned-out stick-bug of a man. He’s certainly not messing with me, so why should I mess with him? Nobody likes a bully.

But that is crooked logic. He could be the most “chill”, well-intended guy on the planet in real life, but it bears no relevance on the fact that his music is unintelligent, cookie-cutter garbage. If this guy was from a city that had a shitty football team, he’d be bussing tables at Denny’s, and that’s the honest-to-God truth. I’m not going to dedicate my career to trying to expose him, music is a subjective animal and people can listen to whatever they please for whatever reason they please…but at the same time, I’m done tiptoeing around my feelings on the matter. I think that Wiz Khalifa has no talent what-so-ever and I’m throwing it out there.

I feel most people who work their jobs they might not be passionate about can really relate to 99%. Was there anything specific that sparked you to write that song?

I think that in general, the working class is preconditioned to eat shit and like it. There is such a perverse, unhealthy fixation with obtaining wealth in this country and it brainwashes people – the guys at the bottom don’t complain about working conditions or wages because they think that if they are obedient for long enough that they can move up and become the guys at the top. This means that workers empathize more with their superiors than their peers, and the superiors use this disconnect to their advantage and string them along. Any worker who’s adopted that sort of self-deprecating mindset is unlikely to unionize or rally for change because they’ve been stripped of the self-confidence it would require to do so. Everyone’s so caught up with the pipe dream of becoming rich that they’re distracted from the reality that they’re poor.

The sour reality is that in the bigger picture, we are ALL the guys on the bottom. We are fighting amongst ourselves over table scraps in a system where one percent of the nation owns and controls everything. It’s a very clever, very intentional diversion, and sadly it’s one that’s been working the last hundred years and it’s about to get a lot worse. They don’t share our struggles; issues like the affordability of healthcare, quality of public education and reliability of public transportation are totally immaterial to them. In fact, they are actively coming up with new ways to minimize the paltry morsels of funds that we do have to work with now. But the end of the day, there are way more of us than there are of them, and the eventual realization of this fact will shake the very foundations of this country.

Amalgamate has some aggressive lyrics from Onry Ozzborn and Kiltervision that fit well with your style. How do you feel the features you did with them as well as Pearl Dragon turned out for Asymmetry?

I have the utmost respect for Onry’s body of work, from Old Dominion to Grayskul to Darktime Sunshine. It was a real pleasure to be able to collaborate with him. He came out of left field with his verse; it was very unorthodox and it really challenged me as a lyricist. I think that while we come from slightly different realms musically, we have a strong common denominator in the fact that we take a lot of pride in defying people’s expectations and keeping our sound unpredictable. We have both carved out distinctions for ourselves and were not going to be confused with any other artists or groups out there.

Add my life-long friend Kiltervision to the mix for “Amalgamate” and that’s all she wrote. I’ve worked with him a lot in the past and I never hesitate to get him on a track because he’s a guy that always delivers. I was very impressed with what they both brought to the table and I’m very proud of the way that song turned out.

I also had a blast working with Pearl Dragon and I think that our styles really complement one another. My verses in “Divergence of Character” are pretty explosive and abrasive, and he was able to keep that in-check by laying down a hook that was very smooth and subdued. I think the guy has a great creative instinct and I would love to sit down and work on something more involved with him in the future. We have great chemistry. Now that we’ve got a taste of how Pearl get’s down in Amuck’s world, what would the result be if Amuck got down on a Champagne Champagne record? That’s a prospect that I find very, very interesting.

I truly feel you hit a homerun with Anglerfish, can you express the emotions that went into this song. It really seems to take you somewhere mentally when you do this song live.

I was in an abysmal, abysmal mood one day and I wanted nothing more than to chew someone’s face off. Rather than actually chew someone’s face off and spend significant time in prison, I wrote a song called “Anglerfish”. It’s an ugly, un-nerving and brutal stream of consciousness where I run down any and everything from mild irritations to the banes of my existence.

I’m not someone that promotes pessimism in my personal life, but I do have negative feelings and the difference between me and a lot of people is that I don’t hide them. I embrace them, make art out of them, and get the hell over them. I’ve always felt it’s important to be transparent with your emotions, good or bad. I’m sure that there are people that think my song is “angsty” or a bad influence or whatever, but those are the same people who will probably pour tens of thousands of dollars into psychiatric help over the course of their lives because they never learned how to properly express themselves.

Download Asymmetry EP:
http://www.mediafire.com/?2pcd4bc9duayw4r

Like @Amuck's Facebook Page:
http://www.facebook.com/#!/Amuck412

Enjoy,
M.G.

Weightroom Jams Vol.V

2011-08-01T18:52:00.000-07:00

2011 Pennsylvania State Weightlifting Championships was a major success! Pittsburgh Barbell club brought home gold medals with 94 kg Champion "Killa Cam" Cameron Davidson, 105 kg Champion Anton Lushenko "The Sneaky Fucking Russian", 105+ Champion Michael George, who is not an 80's icon from the group Wham. The strong mofos from Pendragon Weightlifting Club made up of, Mike Cerbus, Michael Kreatsoulas and Phillip Schneider made the trip and put up an impressive performances. And Samantha Wright from New Jersey qualified for the American Open with her first meet under her belt as did Cameron Davidson. Here are some jams to keep the PR's flying!

Enjoy,
M.G.

Weightroom Jams Vol. IV

2011-07-20T10:21:00.000-07:00

More jams to get you pumped on your PR attempts. Showing some love today to Kevin Cornell and the rest of the guys at California Strength. My teammate and good friend from Pittsburgh Barbell Club has spent the summer working his ass off with Glenn Pendlay and some very tough weightlifters. Congratulations to National Champion Jon North with his gold medal performance this past weekend in Iowa. Jon is actually a talented beat boxer for real! Keep working hard guys. Maybe blast some of these during one of your sessions.

Enjoy,
M.G.

HUBBS Present Future Mixtape Release/Birthday Party

2011-07-20T09:23:00.000-07:00

Come celebrate HUBBS's birthday, as he will also be releasing and performing tracks from his new mixtape, PRESENT FUTURE, which features Shad Black, APEX, Pablo Neruda, Varsity Squad, Shad Ali, Lil' Tone, and B. Pro.. Production from HUBBS and Nysceworkk. Mixed by Hitt of MCM. Performers for the night include Reazon, Pablo Neruda, Shad Ali, and HUBBS, who will also be performing tracks from his acclaimed, debut mixtape, MODERN VINTAGE.

PRESENT FUTURE will be released via web download on July 22nd.

$5 cover, 21 to drink.

Soul II Sole's DJ Drastik, and Nysceworkk on the 1's and 2's.

Enjoy,
M.G.

When Friday Doesn't Feel Good...

2011-07-15T10:02:00.000-07:00

We're going here today for the jam that is usually a Friday Feel Good Jam. We all know sometimes shit isn't always peachy. So we're letting Tyler spit some aggressive verbage and break in the weekend.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Conversation with DJ B-Tips

2011-07-14T07:50:00.000-07:00

DJ B-Tips has been establishing himself as one of the stronger dj's on the music scene in the city of Pittsburgh over the last few years and this truely seems to be just the beginning. Contributing to wear and tear to just about every dance floor in the city , Tips has been lighting up music venues as the DJ for the bands Basick Sickness, MH the Verb and now teaming up with producer Longarms from Miami to form the group Tranquilizers. He has opened up for Snoop, Kid Cudi, Raekwon, Bone Thugs N Harmony, DJ Tina T, Paul Wall and others. His catalog contains:
1-The Unquenchable Thirst (2007)
2-The New Style (2008)
3-Learner's Permit (2009)
4-Got Some (2009)
5-Operator's License (2010)
6-Jaguar Milk (2011)

I got a chance to catch up with this DJ/Producer who grew up in Ann Arbor, Michigan, to let us know what's good.

What are your earliest memories of music?

I grew up outside Detroit and had incredible radio stations and disc jockeys all around me. At the time I didn't realize how good I had it listening to ghettotech, nu-funk, classic house, and disco music by people like Magic Mojo and DJ Marquis. Since then I've gotten the opportunity to learn more about how Southeast Michigan fits into the big picture of music through a good friend named Carleton Gholz who actually teaches and writes about this topic. I used to have a little plastic turntable and I still remember/have most of the records I had: Mr. Rogers' neighborhood, me and my arrow, the smurf's all star show. I remember making a mixtape using the turntable and playing the records at different speeds and scratching them before the age of 7.

Tell us what it was like growing up in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Ann Arbor is a great place to be from. It's really interesting to me how I left before I started DJing and never got to connect with some of the fantastic musicians who call it home like DJ Benzi, Charles Tillinghas, or Shigeto, who's real name is Zach Saginaw. I hope to bridge this gap soon because there is some really excellent work coming out of this town.

You're not just talented on the turntables but you were a classically trained pianist and can play guitar very well. Share with us your instrument background.

I actually have more vocal training than I have in guitar, bass (I can play standup and electric) or piano. When you begin composing music electronically, you are limited primarily by your imagination, and only secondarily by budget. I hope that all the lessons pay off when people hear my E.P. and recognize that we're not messing around!

With that being said, what made you transition into becoming a DJ?

I was gifted with a super forgiving crowd to learn from in the beginning; my fraternity at Pitt (ZBT). I really struggled as a DJ until I reached out to DJ Bonics, who is not only one of my all time favorite DJ's, but someone I'm blessed to count among my best friends. The first time he came over to help me I was really nervous because he was a big celebrity. I read on his myspace that he liked the movie Old Boy, which I'm also a fan of, so I set the dvd case up on my mantle in the hope that he would see it. That's a really embarrassing story. He didn't notice but he did teach me how to hold the crossfader and suggested I get Serato instead of Torq.

Which other DJ’s did you reach out to and learn from?

Nugget, Mcfly, Zimmie, Digital Dave, Strobe, Keebs, and Petey C are some of the guys that are really killing it in Pittsburgh right now as club DJs. When I'm not playing a show, I go out to hear music, and I bring something to write down ideas I get from whoever's playing. I was just in Belize and wrote down the names of Dancehall songs for 3 hours. I also learn from Youtube, Qbert teaches me new scratch patterns when I'm feeling adventurous.

Who are your biggest musical influences?

DJ AM, Z-Trip, DJ Riz, Neil Armstrong, Deadmau5, Prince, Premier, Dilla, Diplo, Trent, Kurt, Pretty Lights, The Beatles. I'm influenced by people that can take an ocean of incredible experience and can distill it into a single gulp for their audience.

I have seen you perform in many different environments and adapt to many different musical interests by changing gears very well. How much of that is instinct and how much of that is preparation?

My taste in music is super eclectic and I think yours should be too. Seriously though my preparation for a standard club gig is typically to acquire and organize new music, and maybe to think a little bit about how I might integrate these songs. For an opening set where I'm only playing an hour or less I might decide on what I'm going to play in advance so that I can connect semantic and melodic ideas in a more intelligent manner. Typically I will record these and make them available the same night.

So far what are your most memorable moments performing?

Opening for Snoop Dogg in April I had a crowd of over 1400 singing Biz Markie's "Just a Friend."

You are a member of the groups Tranquilizerz, Basick Sickness and MH The Verb . Explain the challenges for you of being apart of three different groups that all have different sounds.

I need to experiment with new forms so I'm a part of Tranquilizerz, I love soulful Hip Hop music so I perform with MH The Verb, and every once in a while I need to let the mayhem wash over me so I make noise with Basick Sickness. Seriously though I could write paragraphs on each of the projects, let it suffice to say that I'm deeply involved in all three, and none are contingency plans. I fully believe in the ability of all three projects to move on to the next level at any point in time. I would be in a bit of a bind if that happened but it would be an exciting bind.

What is the next step for B-Tips?

The big news right now is the E.P. released on 6/25 for Tranquilizerz called "Jaguar Milk." I'm also working on an exciting collaboration with a talented singer from L.A. named Menaga, Miss. I released a promotional mix this week and will have another mix out called "Moombahdisco Madness Vol. 1" this month. Additionally I hosted Pittsburgh's first moombahton party recently which is called Moombahton Bassment.

Thanks a lot B-Tips, I'm very excited to see everything comes together for you and I'm sure you have a lot of eyes on you as well with this new release. I wish you the best of luck in everything and keep challenging yourself every step of the way my man! You can contact DJ B-Tips for booking or just general support @:

Isaac B Tips Goldszer

www.djbtips.com
djbtips@live.com
734 709 6923

tranquilizerz: http://www.soundcloud.com/tranquilizerz
Enjoy,
M.G.

Even More Weightroom Jams

2011-07-11T10:10:00.000-07:00

Back with more head jerking jams that will accompany your pr's this week!! I would like to give a big shout out to "Iron" Mike Nackoul who won the B session at Junior World Weightlifting Championshps in Malaysia placing him 7th overall! Dave Sneberger winning the Pan Am Master's title in Savannah, GA! Congratulations to Big John Dennis for winning the MHP Liberty Strongman Classic on July 4th in Philadelphia and achieving his Pro Card. And good luck to Kevin Cornell as he goes to U.S. Nationals in Iowa. Pittsburgh is going strong!!

Enjoy,
M.G.

Kool Keith

2011-06-25T06:31:00.000-07:00

Showing some love on this shitty Saturday morning to Kool Keith. He's had the ability to really take your mind on a different ride through his music over the years. From his beginnings with the Ultramagnetic Mc's to his side projects with Dr. Octogon and Dr. Doom, he's definitely got a special place with me for sure. So enjoy some wonderfulness that is Kool Keith.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Amuck- I Have Begun Music Video

2011-06-23T20:59:00.000-07:00

New video from Amuck is very refreshing. Definitely digging this mc the more I listen to him. So here it is, go get more online and support original music!

More Weightroom Jams

2011-06-12T11:30:00.000-07:00

A bunch of my friends who train hard were really digging the weightroom jams I posted up last week so I'm bringing you some more. Get dirty and hit some pr's this week!

Enjoy,
M.G.

Weightroom Jams

2011-06-04T18:53:00.000-07:00

When it's time to get dirty on the platrom here are some jams that are just as mean and dirty.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Saturday Style

2011-06-04T18:01:00.000-07:00

Friday Feel Good Jams have been few are far between since my routine has changed a lot. So I'm adding a Saturday Style Jam for everyone today.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Quasimoto

2011-06-01T12:29:00.000-07:00

Quasimoto is the alter-ego of producer Madlib. He essentially changes the speed and pitch of his own voice to come up with the sound that we know as Quasimoto. Peanut Butter Wolf, DJ and owner of Stones Throw Records, really liked the concept and put out more tracks. Here are a few of my favorite jams from "Lord Quas".

Quasimoto on facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/Quasimoto
Enjoy,
M.G.

Conversation With Kid A

2011-05-21T08:55:00.000-07:00

I catch up with this hungry emcee who has been a staple in hip hop scene in the city of Pittsburgh over the past several years. Let's go...

Where did you grow up and what kind of things were you into as a kid?

I grew up in the central North Side area of Pittsburgh, Pa. I was a pretty good kid but I definitely had a bad side. I didn't get in alot of trouble as a kid but i did have instances of destroying public property and whatnot.I guess I was a typical kid outside of having alot of family responsibility from a young age. I definitely watched alot of television as a kid and I think its bled into my colorful personality. I was big into Ninja Turtles, WWF, Power Rangers, and the Ghostbusters. Not much has changed.

What were your earliest music memories?

My father had a studio in our basement when I was a kid. I remember all of the posters on the walls and ceiling and all of the equipment that I wasn't allowed to play with. I can also remember sneaking with my older brother and his friends to listen to The Chronic which was not very kid friendly. I really got to witness music from the ground up with a studio in the house. If i knew where i'd be now i would have paid more attention back then.

What artists or groups really inspired you?

I'm inspired by more artists than i can really think of offhand. But off the top of my head I'd say I'm most inspired by: Nas, Dj Quik, Big Pun, Tha Dogg Pound, 1996-2000 Cash Money, J. Dilla, Eminem, Jay-Z, and K-Rino among others.

When was the moment that you decided to persue a music career?

The day I realized I could get on stage and outperform someone with more acclaim than myself. I wrote lyrics since around 11 or 12 years old but I never recorded a song or actually attempted to put my raps into people's ears until i was 17. I started to realize my ability shortly before this after seeing artists like Charon Don, Strict Flow, and The Roots perform.

Did you have any music mentors or anyone that worked with you in the beginning?

No, not really. Charon Don has always been a positive influence on me but we didn't always chop it up especially back then. One of the big things I experienced in the city was alot of the older guys weren't really open to help teach the younger cats something. People just in it for the status and thats all fine by me.I know as i get older, if i'm in position to i will always help out the next in line as much as i can.

I still gotta respect those who looked out for me when i was coming up. Peace to Charon, Dos Noun, Verbal Tec, Dj Big Phil, Drake Steelz & everybody else out there that showed respect from the gate.

Do you feel you can grow as a person and as a hip-hop artist in Pittsburgh?

Yes. It's just up to us as artists to take control of our music and ideas. Small-Town-Mentality has kept Pittsburgh very low when it comes to entertainment and we're all witnessing the beginnings of a change in that department.It's up to us as artists to keep innovating and finding new ways to grow, not only as artists but as human beings.

What are your feelings on the current state of hip-hop music?

The state of music itself is pretty good. I love music and I still feel like alot of quality music is being produced on a commercial and independent level. The state of the music business is a complete joke and it makes the concept of making music so much harder to live with.I'm not mad at the music itself but i'm definitely mad at the people in charge and some of the fans.

There is no more neutrality in radio/tv so the playlists are all slighted and the industry is falling apart at the seams. Until artists boycott major labels and take control of themselves or the labels destroy and rebuild the system, things will continue to crash. It's not very easy to see which direction things are going in at this point.

What are some things that Kid A is into off the stage?

Im a football nerd so see me on Sunday!! My fantasy teams struggled last year from me having shows on draft days and me just being lazy with it but this year its on!! I'm a huge music fan so I try to keep up with whats out to a degree. Can't let new music flood your creative process but I like to keep up with thats good and new. Every year I lose more faith in the MC's I once prayed to and now its time to find other artists out there to relate to.

Please tell us what to expect from you in the near future?

I am about to release my first full-length project of all original material entitled Blunt Guts & Glory at the end of May. Its been years in the making and at this point i just want to release it to get the weight off of my shoulders. It will never sound like i wanted it to but the project itself has been very instrumental in my growth and is a perfect segway into the next chapters.

I've been working on my project with extra-phenomenal Dj Buscrates which is very important to me. I've slacked on it a little just to get #BGG out because I've been sitting on alot of the songs for awhile, but I cant wait to release that one. In addition to those, I am also working on projects with producers James Moore & Dj Thermos, among others. Right now the plan is to really take advantage of 2011 and get out as much music as possible.

What are some of your goals?

I really want to release this music for everyone's ears so I can really gauge what I am able to be as an artist. I want to tour the world, numerous times, so I really want to make progress on that. I also want to continue to create music for myself and others until I have none left in me. If i can impress a few people in my lifetime i'd be happy with that.

What has been your most memorable moment as an emcee?

I don't really feel like I have a set memorable moment, but I've had many. Anything involving a packed crowd is a memorable experience for me. Opening for Tech N9ne was great and definitely a top moment. Also my first big opening gig for Aesop Rock even though I was very young at the time. Recently opening for Method Man & Redman, and also Wu-Tang Clan were huge and a great experience on all levels.

What was the motivation to go with the name Kid. A?

Rap names suck! It actually took me a long time to get to such a simple conclusion. For years I went as EMS(Everything Makes Sense) and while I'll still go by it, I never cared for it. I was always thinking of a better name but never could think of anything that I really liked myself. One day I was listening to Radiohead's album of the same name and it just kind of hit me.

My first name is Aarie so I'm used to people calling me A, and my mom & family have always called me Kid so I just ran with it. It sucks to get thrown into the list with other Kid's, Young's and Lil's but i feel like mine means a little more than the average Young Slappa.

For bookings & collaboration info, email thekidA586@gmail.com. For music and updates please go to:
http://kidA412.bandcamp.com
http://KidA412.tumblr.com

Also check out the Kid A facebook page and follow the ever-so-trendy twitter account @A412Kid.

Special shouts to Michael for the interview and the respect. Much love to Buscrates, Proseed, Varsity Squad, Shindiggaz, Ayatollah Jaxx and all my other comrades around the city and beyond. Positivity and Prosperity!!!

Thanks a lot Kid A for helping me put this together and you got many people out there excited to hear new music from you. I wish you peace, hapiness and success my man.

M.G.

Apex feat. Varsity Squad (Prod by Czientist) Move Back

2011-05-15T15:18:00.000-07:00

New Video from Apex directed by Tom Larkin with production by Czientist and guest appearance by Varsity Squad. Move back is off their upcoming album Sound Travel due out 7.24.11. Check it out.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Pittsburgh Artist HUBBS Takes Us Back to the Future

2011-05-15T14:58:00.000-07:00

I revist with HUBBS after his debut mixtape, Modern Vintage , has become a large success.

So HUBBS, what’s up, what have you been up to since the February release of Modern Vintage?

DJ MG what’s good man, thanks for having me again. It’s been quite an adventure since I dropped Modern Vintage back in February. I’ve had extreme highs and extreme lows, which include seeing an overwhelming amount of love and support from everyone who came across the mixtape, to the passing of my father in March. This all of course, began with the Steelers Superbowl loss [sarcastic laugh]. But through the joy and pain, it all has brought me to a good place and state of mind, which I am currently in. Which allows me to continue to be creative, as I work on my next project, Present Future, which will be released in July. Other than that, just making my footprint in the local hip-hop scene, and establishing rapport with those who share the same artistic passion as me. And of course, I’ve been in the lab, not only working on Present Future, but also current tracks that I’ve been releasing, such as “Come Home,” “Mini Ripp,” along with the N.E.R.D. freestyle and the Kanye freestyle I just put out. I did a show last month too, at Envy in Garfield, which was ill. Just tryna stay active and consistent.

So how do you feel about the feedback from Modern Vintage?

The feedback was incredible man. People were blown away not only by the track selection, as a tribute to the 90’s, but also the authenticity and detail of the rhymes. I put everything into that project, it was very personal. I think that went over well with the listeners. I’m amazed by how far it reached. I had people hittin me from Cali, NYC, Atlanta, London, Philly, and several other places, all showing love for Modern Vintage. There are still MANY people out here who have yet to hear it, which is unfortunate, but I feel gratified by the positive feedback I’ve gotten from some of the respectable hands that it has come across, which include those who carry the cd. You can currently get copies at Time Bomb in East Liberty, Soul II Sole on the Southside, Stedaford’s on the Northside, and Upbeat Records in Wilkinsburg. The internet download is still available of course, at DatPiff.com.

So tell us about Present Future, and what we can expect from this project.

Present Future describes the position that I believe myself to currently be in. With the passion, creativity, and ability that I bring to the game, I feel that I can have a solid impact, along with all the others who are contributing and succeeding in the local scene, in carrying on the future of this music. I also have always been told that I am ahead of my time, or beyond my years. I’ve always had a strong influence from elders, like my brother Alim and his peers. Like I said on Summer Snow.. “I’m so 20/20, that means my vision’s clear/and I’m ahead of my time, so that’s my present year.” That line best describes this project. In short, I am presently in the future [laughs]. Musically, it will still feature a sound that reflects the raw essence of hip-hop, but it will be coupled with a modern and even futuristic and eclectic sound, from a production standpoint. I will be playing a key role in the production too, by the way. I’ve been giving a lot of energy to that side of it so far, with the help of Nysceworkk, Hitt of MCM, and a few others. The rhymes will continue to reflect the everyday instances, topics, and experiences of life, as well as typical HUBBS bravado and wit. No freestyles on this mixtape, ALL original tracks, with features from Pablo Neruda, Abso Blair (winner of Pittsburgh ANTUKS Cypher Best Bars Contest), and a few others. It’ll be released on July 23rd, at my birthday party/show, which will feature a live HUBBS performance that will feature some other artists that I’ve been working with. The location is to be later disclosed.

What are some key things you have learned along this process?

Man, I’ve learned a lot. First, I’ve learned that you HAVE to be humble, which is something that comes natural to me. You have to realize that there are A LOT of other talented artists out here, and a lot of cats putting in serious work. You have to realize that it is a process, which will not come easy, even with talent. Attitude is everything. Everyone is not gonna kiss your ass, and praise you. Expecting that, leads to disappointment and bitterness, which you see a lot in the game. Expectations can kill you. You can’t even expect all your friends or close people to support you, even though most will. Gotta just focus on the music. I’ve also learned how important promotion is. Gotta use every possible outlet to get your music out. It costs, but it makes a serious impact on establishing and also maintaining buzz. Present Future itself, will display my growth as an artist, and represent much of what I continue to learn.

Well HUBBS, I thank you for checking in with us again, and we look forward to the release of Present Future. Any shoutouts?

No doubt man, and yes, I wanna give a shoutout to everyone who genuinely has my best interest at heart, and has a sincere desire to see me succeed. The love is much appreciated, and critical to my success. Shoutout to all the naysayers, keep doing your job as well. Without you all, many of the great people of this world would’ve never come to be. Keep it up [chuckles]. Shout to my family, my mom, brother Alim, my two sons Deshawn and Deston, and R.I.P. to my pops, Lawrence Hubbard. Love you pops! My cousin Vince out in Cali, Kenya in ATL, and all my other cousins, aunts, uncles, and family members. Peace to my man CP, and my dude Epps. Ya’ll been right at the core. Mike Hutty, K. Hammond, P. Neru , my “snerdy lady”, Dennis up in Harlem, Kyle, J. Coleman, Myles, my man Keith, J. Brock, Matt Russ, MyyaG, Shaking, Paul Dang, Ray Jeez, Nick, Dom, Protho, Twon, C. Crawf, Arch, Andy Black, the Schifino family, Akida, Marques Ham,“D” and “B” Johnson, Nate, Eddie B., Varro, Shawn, Krystal, Motor of Taylor Gang, Bruce Green, Craig G, Anth, Ricketts, J. Nunley, Nico, Joe Ceph, Hitt, Nickbe and everyone over at MCM, my man Nysceworkk, the whole PH, Fife up on the Hill, and everyone else holdin me down up there. Shout to my dude DJ Drastik over at Soul II Sole, Brick and KT over at Timebomb, T. Bangs, Image, Lil’ Tone, Abso, Envy, RepPghHipHop.com, Thepittsburghscene.com, Chux Beta, and all the other outlets and artists that have helped me get the music out. Peace to everyone I forgot.. much love from HUBBS! And as always, shoutout to my dude DJ MG and the Hip Hop Haven.

New and Unreleased Music from HUBBS:

“Come Home”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-Ahdx5pqTk

“Mini Ripp”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HM3M0zReYTo&feature=related

“Kanye West Freestyle”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rWj6eYn88h4

“N.E.R.D. Freestyle”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1J3qzWqXZk&feature=related

“NWA ‘Appetite for Destruction’ Freestyle”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zysl0oM5y0M&feature=related

MODERN VINTAGE Download: http://www.datpiff.com/Hubbs-Modern-Vintage mixtape.201892.html%20

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/itshubbs

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/itshubbs

Youtube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/itshubbs

Reverbnation: http://www.reverbnation.com/hubbs

Enjoy,
M.G.

Amuck Upcoming Shows

2011-05-04T21:47:00.001-07:00

To say Amuck is creating a buzz in the city of Pittsburgh is a major understatement. He has been steadily improving as an artist since 2007 with his release of Starving Artist. I'm excited to announce that Amuck has a couple of shows coming up at Altar Bar in the Strip District. On Tuesday May 10th he is rocking with AWOLNATION as part of an event sponsored by 105.9 the X. Admission is free to this show. On Thursday May 12th Amuck is on the ticket with Hed PE & Mushroomhead. Tickets for the show will $20 and you can contact me @ MikeyG80_13@hotmail.com or Amuck @ Amuck412@gmail.com. We promote the artist getting as much of the cut as they can. I had the pleasure of catching up with Amuck and exploring what's been in the works with him as of recent. So here you go ...

How well do you feel you fit in with the acts you'll be sharing the stage with in your upcoming shows?

I'm not sure I've ever played a show where I truly "fit in," and I think that's a good thing, but there are certainly elements of both bills that could be advantageous for my act. Awolnation is actually a pretty good match-up for me because we both have strong undercurrents of Hip-hop, Rock and Electronica in our music. I may have more of a foundation in Hip-hop than he does, but I think that at the end of the day his fans are eclectic individuals who thirst for material that is high-energy yet obscure, and I think that makes me the perfect man for the job.

The Hed PE/Mushroomhead show is a little bit more slippery of a slope. Both of these bands have carved a pretty precise demographic of fans for themselves, and when you get those fans together in the same venue, you have to expect a lot of testosterone, angst and bravado. That's not necessarily a bad thing, it's just something that will be in the foreground of my mind when I hit the stage. These people might be a little apprehensive about me at first because I'm not what they're used to - my goal is that, by the end of my set, I earn the respect of every person in the audience by leaving everything I have out there. I think it will be a case of raw-passion transcending any preconceived notion, and I anticipate gaining a whole slew of new Amuck fans with this performance.

What can we expect to hear from you at these shows?

I'll be performing a lot of songs from my latest release "Improbabilities", and there MIGHT even be some special guests in the house to rock some of those songs with me. My producer Sikes will also be helping me out with some hype-man duty - he's an unreal artist and performer and he's the one guy I trust to have my back when I pick up a microphone. And I may or may not have some never-before-heard jams to unleash upon the Altar Bar..but my attorney has advised me not to speak on the matter any further at this time.

So to paraphrase: Rhymes, beats, and explosions.

Can you tell us about the progress you're making on your new album that you're currently working on?

Things are going swimmingly. I'm more excited about this new album than anything I've done in the past; it's like "Improbabilities" on anabolic steroids. I got work with Onry Ozzborn of Grayskul/Darktimesunshine fame and my best friend Kiltervision in the same track. I'm working with musicians from some of my favorite homegrown hardcore, punk and indie outfits to give the beats a "full band" kind of feel. DJ Gajamagic (currently of Champagne Champagne, formerly of The Blood Brothers) is chipping in on some production, which is totally surreal because his music was a monumental influence on me in high school. It really feels like everything is coming full-circle.

I'm more on point with my lyrics and concepts than ever before, and I can't wait to get this album into people's hands. Unfortunately, there is no set timetable for a release date at the moment..but if I had to guess, I would tell fans to be on the lookout for it to drop late 2011/early 2012.

Amuck-The Unfettered Ones by Amuck

Show some love to Amuck on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/Amuck412
Reverbnation:
http://www.reverbnation.com/amuck
Enjoy,
M.G.

Friday Funk with Mos Def

2011-04-22T12:34:00.000-07:00

Giving some love to one of my favorite hip hop artists, the mighty Mos Def. We're going to spend this friday banging along to some of my favorite bangers from Mos Def. Get down.

Madlib hit one out of the park with this beat!

Can Never forget Black Star

Have a great Easter weekend for those who celebrate.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Friday Feel Good Jam

2011-04-15T10:07:00.000-07:00

This is my summer jam and the season is coming soon, so get down with this hit from Floetry.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Deltron 3030 Second Project "Deltron Event II" Finally Wrapping Up Production

2011-04-13T16:36:00.000-07:00

Deltron 3030 is in the studio finishing their second album Deltron Event II. The group consists of producer Dan the Automator, emcee Del tha Funkee Homosapien (known as Deltron Zero for the project) and DJ Kid Koala. The production for Deltron Event II started in 2006. For many different reasons it was simply never finished. Their debut album Deltron 3030 , which was released in 2000, was a brilliant piece and remains one of my all time favorite hip-hop albums. I'm extremely excited to check this out when it is finished. There has been no release date released. Here is a video clip of Del in the studio laying down a verse for the project.

Del Working on Deltron 3030: The Event II from AlwaysHustle.com on Vimeo.

Enjoy,
M.G.

OFWGKTA

2011-04-13T16:10:00.000-07:00

I"m really digging the Odd Future crew who's full name is Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All (OFWGKTA). These guys are from Los Angeles, California and bring some serious craziness to the game. I dig it and here are some more vids. (I entered in the video for Tyler The Creator's Yonkers below on it's own.)

Enjoy,
M.G.

Tyler The Creator - Yonkers

2011-04-10T21:50:00.001-07:00

This dude is bringing some serious instability mixed with insanity blended with intelligence. I'm digging this cat big time. Thank you Cody Totin for sending me this, my new jam.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Celph Titled & Buckwild feat. FT & R.A. The Rugged Man

2011-04-05T09:15:00.001-07:00

Enjoy,
M.G.

Deep Thinkers- War of Words

2011-04-04T09:45:00.000-07:00

Sick jam from Deep Thinkers, War of Words, from the album Necks Move.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Gza- Liquid Swords Samples

2011-04-01T10:00:00.000-07:00

Here are the samples used on one of the greatest hip-hop albums in history and one of my favorite albums, Liquid Swords by Gza.

1. Liquid Swords

Dialogue from Shogun Assassin

2. Duel of the Iron Mic

Dialogue from Shogun Assassin

3. Living in the World Today

Dialogue from Dragon on Fire

4. Gold

5. Cold World

Dialogue from Shogun Assassin

7. 4th Chamber
Willie Mitchell- Groovin (See above Liquid Swords)

Dialogue from Shogun Assassin

8. Shadowboxin

Dialogue from Shaolin Vs Lama

9. Hell's Wind Staff / Killah Hills 10304

10. Investigative Reports

12. I Gotcha Back

Dialogue from Shogun Assassin

13. B.I.B.L.E. (Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth

Enjoy,
M.G.

Friday Feel Good Jam

2011-04-01T07:39:00.000-07:00

Enjoy,
M.G.

Scaramanga- 99 Names

2011-03-28T18:42:00.000-07:00

My boy Alex recommended this track to me and posted it up on his facebook page. I have been bumping it ever since, love it. Here is for you to bump it hard as well! This is a single, 99 Names from the album Snake-Eyes.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Wu-Tang Clan Unreleased and Bonus Tracks

2011-03-28T09:52:00.001-07:00

A few of my favorite unreleased tracks from one of the all time greats in the hip-hop game, the Wu-Tang Clan.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Basick Sickness- Inches Video

2011-03-25T10:46:00.000-07:00

Basick Sickness is a strong group from Pittsburgh, PA really making a name for themselves. This is the only non pure hip hop group that I report on in this blog. I truely put my stamp on these guys. Here is their newest video "Inches".

Show support and hit them up on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/basicksickness

Twitter:
http://twitter.com/#!/basicksickness

Enjoy,
M.G.

Funny Interaction With Hip-Hop Legend Melle Mel

2011-03-25T06:31:00.000-07:00

Today's Friday Feel Good Jam comes with a story. The Arnold Classic in Columbus, Ohio is one of the biggest fitness expos in the world. As I'm making my way around all the various booths with ultra long lines, I notice one table where there isn't a soul. As I get closer I notice it's hip-hop pioneer Melle Mel. I get excited and make my way over. He was signing 8x10 photos of himself for a supplement company. As I get over to the table I just reacted and rapped the verse, "Melle Mel with the clientele, I'm gonna rock your chime and ring your bell!!". He jumps out of his seat with his hand over his mouth and just yells,"OOOOOOOHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!! You did not, haha. You just made my day brotha!!" He then signed a picture for me and I paid my respects and we talked briefly. :-). I feel pretty fortunate at least for one time I got to spit a verse to a legend. And that verse is actually from today's Friday Feel Good Jam- Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five- Freedom.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Iman Williams - Stupid Human Trick

2011-03-23T11:52:00.000-07:00

This is a breath of fresh air, I highly recommend to give this a listen. Great album to bump with spring right around the corner. I could just sit on the front porch on a sunny day with a light breeze hitting me vibing to this. Very soulful content with production work to match by Orlando Buscrates Marshall. Iman's style and delivery reminds me of R & B sensation Amel Larrieux. Here is the link to purchase the album and listen to individual songs.

http://youneedtoknowiman.bandcamp.com/album/stupid-human-trick

All Production by BusCrates 16-Bit Ensemble

Album Artwork by: Dr. Foo
afua.richardson@gmail.com

"Float Away" mixed by Real Soon
soon@soonsounds.com

creditsreleased 30 November 2010
Iman Williams, BusCrates 16-Bit Ensemble, Velben, Porsche Smith:
futuristicbooking@gmail.com

Farnell Newton:
farnellnewton@gmail.com

Show Iman some love on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/imanbwilliams?sk=photos#!/imanbwilliams

Enjoy,
M.G.

APEX feat Roscoe Wiki "All Of Me" prod by Czientist

2011-03-23T08:01:00.000-07:00

You're getting another exclusive people!! New track from APEX feat. Roscoe Wiki "All Of Me" produced by Czientist off the upcoming project Sound Travel which is tenatively scheduled to release on 7-24-11.

APEX Ft Rosco Wiki of the Common Wealth Family "All Of Me" Prod by Czientist by APEXonline

Click below for free download:
http://limelinx.com/files/18196a7cec9d7ed3c061db0cb4ef1d31

To download the debut album Face The Musik on iTunes, click below!

http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/face-the-musik/id282105454

To download the sophomore album Struggle City on iTunes, click below!

http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/struggle-city/id343212572

Show support for APEX on the following social network sites:
www.facebook.com/apexonline
www.myspace.com/apexonline
www.twitter.com/apexonline
www.apex.bandcamp.com
www.reverbnation.com/apexonline
www.youtube.com/klockwirk
www.apexmusik.spreadshirt.com

Show some love to Czientist and follow his blog:
http://czientist.blogspot.com/

Keep up the great work APEX we'll be listening. You can also check back here for upcoming shows and appearances.

Enjoy,
M.G.

The Bizness (BusCrates 16-Bit Ensemble's Remix)

2011-03-22T09:33:00.000-07:00

Orlando "Buscrates" Marshall has blessed us with a remix to the classic track, The Bizness, by iconic group De La Soul. Buscrates is a talented DJ, producer, b-boy and all around good dude in the game of life. Enjoy this jam as I know you will.

The Bizness (BusCrates 16-Bit Ensemble's Remix) by BusCrates 16-Bit Ensemble

Show some love to Buscrates on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/people/Orlando-Buscrates-Marshall/100002082324791

Enjoy,
M.G.

Hieroglyphics

2011-03-16T08:01:00.000-07:00

I was driving in my friend Tom's truck on our way to lunch on Monday and he was blasting Third Eye Vision from Hieroglyphics. Haven't listened to that album in quite a while and it is one of my favorite albums from one of my favorite groups. So I thought it was time to share some funk from this group. Here are some of my favorite jams from them.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Pittsburgh T's @ Commonwealth Press

2011-03-15T09:46:00.000-07:00

The fellas at Commonwealth Press in the Southside have a great line of Pittsburgh T's. There are plenty of other great merchandise and they offer screen printing services. Their walk in store located at 1931 East Carson St. Their online store is https://www.compressmerch.com/merch/scripts/prodList.asp?idCategory=46

Here are a few of my favorite t's I saw in the store today:

Any questions or inquires contact Dan Rock email danrock@cwpress.com and 412-431-4207. Show some support to a local business that is printing quality t's with some great Pittsburgh Sport themes and other things that make the Burg unique.

Elementary School Days Jam

2011-03-11T08:17:00.000-08:00

Enjoy,
M.G.

Cody Totin Top 5 Albums Edition

2011-03-09T18:44:00.000-08:00

Cody Totin is a true hip-hop head hailing from Irwin, Pennsylvania doing his part to keep the good music in and the bullshit out. A talented short movie maker, skateboarder, snowboarder and ladykiller. Cody is sharing with all of you his Top 5 Favorite Hip-Hop Albums.

Enjoy,
M.G.

R.I.P. Notorious BIG

2011-03-09T17:28:00.000-08:00

Time to pay our respects to a guy who really changed the game forever and that is the Notorious BIG. This is the day that he passed but his music will live on forever. Ready to Die remains one of my favorite LP's and was blasting in my headphones during junior high basketball trips. Here are some of my favorite Biggie joints.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Quality Hip Hop T-Shirts

2011-03-08T15:31:00.000-08:00

If you read my blog then you are no stranger to my man A.C. The Program Director. His HipHopPhilosophy Radio Show is so much more than just a hip-hop music show. It's a true way of life that exhibits integrity, responsibility and accountability. A.C. The PD has an awesome T-Shirt line that is only reserved for true hip-hop heads that meet that criteria. If you like what you see, there are plenty more options.

Email A.C. at:
programdirector@hotmail.com
acthepd1@gmail.com

Show some love to A.C. and listen to live broadcasts of HipHopPhilosophyRadio at:
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/acthepd

Enjoy,
M.G.

Immortal Technique Interview NEW

2011-03-07T11:51:00.000-08:00

Thank you Rebels To The Grain on Breakbeats and Rhymes Radio 90.7 FM KPFK Los Angeles. These guys are doing wonderful work on their show. Don't let the FM initials fool you. This is one of the only true hip hop outlets on FM radio in the country. Show some support. Here is the solid interview they did recently with one of my all-time favorites, Immortal Technique.

Show Rebels To The Grain Some Love on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/rebelstothegrain?sk=info

Enjoy,

M.G.

Friday Funk

2011-02-25T12:41:00.000-08:00

Enjoy,
M.G.

RUN-DMC- Beats to the Rhymes

2011-02-20T19:23:00.000-08:00

A.C. The Program Director made a post on Facebook calling this one of the funkiest beats in hip hop. I have to agree I absolutely love this as well and I'm sure you do too.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Friday Feel Good Jam

2011-02-18T11:40:00.000-08:00

Holy Shit Pittsburgh, the sun has been out!!!

Enjoy,
M.G.

Notorious B.I.G.- Suicidal Thoughts

2011-02-17T12:02:00.000-08:00

People are afraid to express themselves like this anymore. People are turning down the real button and turning up the bullshit settings. Everything doesn't have to be bubble gum, smiles and dancing. Life gets hard and shit needs to be real.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Weightroom Shit

2011-02-16T20:41:00.000-08:00

Throw around some 25 kg plates to this. Ugly, sick drums, fucked up lyrics, just what one needs when he wants to get psycho in training.

Cage does have some sick photography.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Real Friday Funk

2011-02-11T06:58:00.000-08:00

Enjoy,
M.G.

Tracks from Modern Vintage by Hubbs.

2011-02-09T22:42:00.001-08:00

All of you fools who missed the release last Sunday of the debut mixtape "Modern Vintage" from Hubbs need to check out a few tracks right now. Go check out the interview and free download link on this blog right here. It's an exclusive first look at this beastly mixtape. It is so good it makes you want to slap yo momma!! This isn't Friday After Next, but this is a seriously solid mixtape that will make you appreciate real hip-hop with some fresh originals and revisit some sick instrumentals as well.

01. 92' Intro by Hubbs 04. Temptation by Hubbs

Enjoy,
M.G.

Lewis Parker

2011-02-09T21:29:00.001-08:00

Get familiar with British emcee/producer Lewis Parker cause he's a beast!!!

Enjoy,
M.G.

The Beatnuts

2011-02-09T10:30:00.000-08:00

Time to show some love to The Beatnuts. This funky duo from NY have sparked some real funk since 1989. Just wanted to play some solid jams from this more than solid group. Hope everyone is bobbing their head like I am :-).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPwkHtul62o&feature=related

Enjoy,
M.G.

Hubbs- Modern Vintage Mixtape

2011-02-06T14:24:00.000-08:00

http://www.mediafire.com/?crx2xzwqtjxj48x

Hubbs, a talented emcee from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has his debut mixtape "Modern Vintage" drops today as a Super Bowl treat. Features freestyles over various Hip-Hop tracks of the 90’s, of legendary producers such as DJ Premier, Pete Rock, Havoc, The Rza, Dr. Dre, among others. A few of the original songs included on here, Temptation, Summer Snow, and Sunshower, were produced by Hitt of MCM. A special shoutout also goes out to DJ Nysceworkk. I talked to Hubbs about this exciting new release.

Hubbs, this is your debut release, please tell us what we can expect to get from this mixtape.

I would say this mixtape is a nostalgic salute to the 90’s era of Hip-Hop, and also much of an autobiographical reflection. You can expect to hear detailed rhymes, personal recollections, and witty wordplay, coupled with some of your most favorite instrumentals of the Golden Era of this genre. Every freestyle has three or four beats within one track. In many ways, it is a musical collage.

How long have you been working on this release?

I started recording most of the material on the mixtape early last year, like spring of 2010. A few of the original tracks that I also included, were recorded back in 2008, but I decided to re-record them. On the original songs that were not produced by Hitt of MCM, I used beats that have come across me over the years by various people. I have a ton of random beats that people have just handed me on beat cd's or mp3's, as far back as 5 years ago. So I decided to put a few of them to use. As far as the rhymes, there are verses that I wrote as far back as 2005, as well as verses that were written as soon as late 2010. But as a whole, we’ll just say, it’s been a long time coming.

Do you have any other featured artists on this with you?

No. This was a solo effort in every aspect of the word. I wanted to establish myself as an individual with this cd. My next mixtape, Present Future, which I’m already beginning to record, will feature my man Pablo Neruda, a long time affiliate and close friend, and I’d say maybe another artist or two, which I won’t mention at the moment.

How long have you been an emcee?

Man, I’ve been doing this a long time, believe it or not. I’d say I officially started rhyming around 1996, when I was 14. It was right in the heart of the era that this mixtape represents. I remember my man Sha-King, a local Pittsburgh emcee, who has been a friend since childhood, approached me in 9th grade, and asked me if I’d be interested in being in the school talent show with him. He asked my other man Mike “Pooter” as well. Sha-King had been rhyming for years by that point, but Mike and I had only written rhymes on occasion, just out of hobby. We never recorded or performed anything. But I remember being like “why not” when Sha asked me. We came up with this song, over some ill instrumental with this Biggie voice sample in the hook, and killed the talent show. We were on some young don sh*t (laughs), rockin trench coats and suits and all that. It was wild. I had the last verse on the track, and I remember cats in the crowd goin’ nuts when I came out and spit my verse. That’s when I knew I had some talent, and also that I enjoyed rhyming and performing. We formed a group called Soul Fabric, and gave our crew the unofficial name of The Forgotten Crew, which also included my man Kenny, who was a DJ, and my man Clyde, who was just a Hip-Hop lover in general. He used to break dance. But I was also into other stuff, I used to hoop, and that was my main focus over the next several years. We laid down a little tape, with some songs and freestyles we recorded, but never did much after that. I didn’t start taking rhyming serious again until like 2002, which I discuss on my Outkast freestyle on here. So like I said, it’s been a long time coming.

Who are your musical influences?

I would say this cd is a display of most of my musical influences, from a Hip-Hop standpoint. With verses over songs from everyone from Nas to Jay-Z, to Biggie, and group like Gang Starr, Mobb Deep, Wu-Tang, etc., this mixtape is collection and much of a tribute to all of the artists and groups whose tracks I chose to rhyme over. I also included some of my west coast influences, like Dr. Dre, Snoop, and MC Eiht, who I grew up listening to throughout the early 90’s. From a non-Hip-Hop standpoint, my mom exposed me to a lot of the R&B from the 60’s and 70’s, like Smokey Robinson, Parliament, all the Motown cats, Stevie, Teddy P, Donny Hathaway, and so many others, and of course as an 80’s baby, artists like Prince, Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, among others, all played a big part in my musical influence. My grandfather, Robert Head, was a jazz musician, as a pianist, in the Hill District, throught the 40's, 50's, and 60's. My mother, who grew up in the Hill District in Elmore Square, also was a musician. She played the flute. I also played the trumbone and violin as a child. So I come from a very musical family and background. Now days, I’m into cats like Kanye, Styles P, Jadakiss, Lupe, Jay-Z, Lil’ Wayne, Drake, and a lot of today’s heavyweights who have taken and even carried the torch since the Golden Era. I’m a big N.E.R.D. fan too. I think Pharrell Williams is a musical genius. I’m also inspired by a lot of Pittsburgh’s local artists, like Wiz Khalifa, Formula 412, Boaz and S. Money, Pablo Neruda, Mac Miller, Lennox Champ, The Governor, Living Proofe, Sha-King, my man Hitt and the whole MCM, Commonwealth Family, and the whole ANTUKS Movement has been ill thus far. I’ve always been a music fanatic; it’s like a necessity of life for me.

Where can we download the mixtape?
It’s available now for free at http://www.mediafire.com/?crx2xzwqtjxj48x and I may be putting it on datpiff.com as well. I will also be distributing free copies throughout the city, at local Hip-Hop music and clothing stores.

Where can we see you perform next?

I don’t have any upcoming shows on the itinerary at this point, but will likely be doing some shows once spring hits. I’m also planning on doing a show/birthday party in late July, which is in the works.

Shoutouts...

I wanna give a shoutout to MCM Studios, where I recorded this whole project, with my man Hitt and Nickbe. That’s a solid studio and movement. Much love to them. I also wanna shout out all my close affiliates, my man Nysceworkk, Pablo Neruda, Lennox Champ, and The Governor. Shout to my family, mom, pops, my brother Alim, my 2 sons Deshawn and Deston, all my dudes, Kenny, CP, Dennis up in Harlem, Kyle, J. Coleman, Myles, my man Keith, J. Brock, Drew, Jake, Epps, Joe Ceph, Mike Hutty, B. Johnson, Matt Russ, and everyone else in my circle. I wanna shoutout the whole city of Pittsburgh, and the Eastside of town in particular, from Penn Hills to the Hill and back. I love ya’ll. And I especially wanna give a big ups to DJ M.G. and the Hip Hop Haven. Thanks for the feature, much love.

Mixtape is also available for download at:
http://www.thepittsburghscene.com

Show love on Twitter:
http://www.twitter.com/itshubbs

Hubbs, I wish you all the luck in the world. This is not only a very multi-talented young man but a great dude overall. Much love and respect.

Enjoy,
M.G.

R.A. The Rugged Man Comes To Pittsburgh

2011-02-03T05:59:00.000-08:00

Underground hip-hop legend and one of my personal favorites, R.A. The Rugged Man will be performing at Diesel in the Southside on Thursday, February 17th. I'm excited to see R.A. live for the first time after bumping his shit for so many years. Show support to some real hip-hop.

Can purchase tickets here:
http://www.ticketfly.com/event/27311/

Show love on facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/RA-The-Rugged-Man-Official-Page/180800567216

Enjoy,
M.G.

Friday Feel Good Jam

2011-01-28T13:50:00.000-08:00

Enjoy,

M.G.

Conversation With Gene Stovall

2011-01-28T09:51:00.000-08:00

Gene Stovall is a talented mc, musician, producer and artist just to name a few skills. His debut LP titled "2+2=5" will be released on February 25th. I spoke with Gene about this exciting new release.

This will be your first LP release and you are not only the featured artist, but the executive producer as well. How difficult was it to essentially be responsible for everything on this album?

Having complete creative control, make the planning, writing, arranging, and producing of 2+2=5 was easy. It was hard to find the right engineer to dedicate undivided attention to my methods of madness in the studio. Soy Sos seemed to understand what I wanted to give my listeners. His patience made him the perfect engineer and co-producer of this album. His studio felt like home, and I finished my creation in his sound booth. Everything that I had been experimenting with for so many years is finally ready to be listened to.

How long did you work on this album?

I was originally going to release the beats on an all instrumental album called Muppetface, which took 3 years to create and fine tune. The lyrics were written over a 15 year period. The recording process of 2+2=5 took 2 months.

Are there any features with other artists or producers?

2+2=5 features performing artists SMI Swig Art, Jack Wilson, Kid A, Reverrb, Varsity Squad, Shade Cobain, Cory Eaux, G. Ryin Gaines, and Big Brown. Soy Sos is the co-producer of this project.

Who are some of your biggest musical influences?

Radiohead, Stevie Wonder, Nirvana, A Tribe Called Quest, Black Sheep, Alice In Chains, The Time, Prince, Beck, MF Doom, Chicago, Earth Wind and Fire, Pink Floyd, Syd Barrett, David Bowie, Talking Heads, Oasis, Wu Tang Clan, Gil Scott Heron, The Beatles, The Pharcyde, Nas, The Kinks, The Rolling Stones, Biggie Smalls, Jodeci, Boyz II Men, New Edition,The Jackson 5, Strawberry Alarm Clock, Fleetwood Mac, De La Soul, Digital Underground, Kid and Play, D'Angelo, The Fugees, Snoop Dogg, Bob Dylan, Jimmie Hendrix, Michael Jackson, Guy, George Michael, Mary J. Blige, Public Enemy, Justin Timberlake, R. Kelly, Aaliyah, The Isley Brothers, Run DMC, Jay Z, N.E.R.D., and Tony Toni Tone.

Where can we purchase the album?

720 Records, The Record Exchange, The Gene Stovall Store on www.genestovallmusic.com, and at any and all Gene Stovall concerts and social events.

Where can we see you perform next?

You can see me and members of Team Stovall at the New Amsterdam Pub every Monday night for my very own Open Mic.I also host Smoke Ritual at New Amsterdam Pub every second Saturday night of each month. The 2+2=5 CD Release Event is at the Shadow Lounge on February 25, 2011. Doors open at 9pm.

Single from 2+2=5 titled "Electro Pop Memoir".
ELECTRO POP MEMOIR REF 1 by Gza3030

Show love on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/genestovall

I know myself as well as many other people are excited to check out this new release. Much luck and great success to you Gene!

Enjoy,

M.G.

Basick Sickness- Attack

2011-01-26T10:27:00.000-08:00

Alright hip hop heads we're switching gears today to bring you some rock shit. Basick Sickness newest video "Attack" off the album "Before It's Too Late." This scumbag can really bring it and I'm showing you guys some music with heart. Shout out to DJ B-Tips, Joe Palermo and Rick Topping for making this group an exciting live act. I recommend anyone in the Pittsburgh area who loves and appreciates great live music to check out Basick Sickness.

Show love on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/basicksickness

Enjoy,
M.G.

Cody Totin on People Under The Stairs

2011-01-25T11:51:00.000-08:00

"Hip Hop isn't dead, it's under the stairs." - Cody Totin

I absolutely love this quote from my friend Cody. So here ya go people, bob your head to those funky brothers under the stairs in L.A. Here is "Time To Rock Our Shit".

Download People Under The Stairs - Time To Rock Our Shit

Enjoy,
M.G.

MH The Verb- Money Can't Save You Video

2011-01-24T15:35:00.000-08:00

MH The Verb is showing some love to the Burg as he shot this video for "Money Can't Save You" while back in Pittsburgh for a weekend of shows. DJ B-Tips is in the house, literally. Putting in some work in his own living room, this will surely want to make you want to bob your head and move your feet.

MH the Verb - Money Can't Save U from TJ Collanto on Vimeo.

Show some love to MH The Verb at:

http://www.mhtheverb.com/

Enjoy,
M.G.

Friday Feel Good Jam

2011-01-21T12:49:00.000-08:00

Sound Familiar? Sampled by...
Alicia Keys- Unbreakable

and also...
Common- Penny For Your Thoughts

Enjoy,
M.G.

720 Records Grand Opening

2011-01-20T13:20:00.000-08:00

720 Records is opening their doors at a new location this Saturday, January 22nd. Come join the celebration and show support at 4405 Butler Street in Lawrenceville, Pittsburgh. Starting at 12 p.m. they'll be unveiling loads of new music, vinyl & CDs, clothing designs, books & magazines, fresh accessories, edible treats, coffees, teas, etc. There will be a star studded line up of dj's on rotation all day long, the list includes:

Selecta
Nate Da Phat
Maddbuddha
DJ Source
Pete Butta
Nice Rec
DJ Nugget
J Malls
J-Spin
BusCrates
OuttaReach
Brotha Mike
DJ Vex
Aaesir St. James
SMI
DJ T-One
The Get Down Gang
and many more!

Good luck with the new home James Scoglietti.
Check out their website for all your hip-hop needs.
http://www.720records.com/dispatchSite.cfm

Enjoy,
M.G.

Necro Instrumental

2011-01-20T10:01:00.000-08:00

Necro - Get on your knees instrumental
From Neco Instrumentals Vol.1

Enjoy,
M.G.

Switch- I Call Your Name

2011-01-15T12:22:00.000-08:00

I Call Your Name

Sound Familiar?
Richboy- Throw Some D's On It

Enjoy,
M.G.

Friday Feel Good Jam

2011-01-14T09:48:00.000-08:00

The Isley Brothers- For the Love of You

Sampled by Masta Ace Incorporated- The I.N.C. Ride

Enjoy,
M.G.

Pete Rock T.R.O.Y. Sample

2011-01-12T14:00:00.000-08:00

(0:56 and 1:38)

Enjoy,
M.G.

Matthew George Off To Serve In The U.S. Marine Corp

2011-01-07T09:11:00.001-08:00

We are going to switch up gears today. My brother Matt is going to be shipped off Monday to Paris Island, South Carolina for Boot Camp to start his service with the Marines. I love you bro and will miss you. Stay strong! This one is for you...

Enjoy,
M.G.

Junk Science- Really Man

2011-01-06T11:56:00.000-08:00

A top song on the J Pitts Show from 2010, this became one of my newer favorites. I dig the John Lennon theme in this video as well very creative vid.

Enjoy,
M.G.

The J Pitts Show Episode 152: Best of 2010

2011-01-05T19:06:00.000-08:00

The J Pitts Show with DJ Nice Rec gives their best of 2010. Go check it out becasue if you like hip hop then you will like this show. Simple as that.

J. Pitts & Nicerec’s Top 13 songs of 2010:

Intro song – X.O. – 1.1.10

13. Junk Science – Really, Man
12. Mayer Hawthorne – Thin Moon
11. Danny Brown – S.O.S.
10. Med – Classic
9. J-Live – The Way that I Rhyme
8. Reflection Eternal – Just Begun
7. Kanye West – Runaway
6. Red – I Should Tell Your Momma
5. Aloe Blacc – I Need a dollar
4. Kanye West – Dark Fantasy
3. The Roots – Radio Daze
2. Black Milk – Black and Brown
1. Blu – Til We Die

J. Pitts’ Top 5 albums of 2010
5. Black Milk – Album of the Year
4. Kid Cudi – Man on the Moon 2: The Legend of Mr. Rager
3. Kanye West – My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy
2. Aloe Blacc – Good Things
1. The Roots – How I Got Over

J. Pitts’ MC of he Year: Kanye West

DJ Nice Rec’s Top 5 Albums of 2010
5. Domo Genesis- Rolling Papers LP
4. Kanye West- My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy
3. Black Milk- Album of the Year
2. The Roots- How I Got Over
1. Blu- The Godlee Barnes LP

DJ Nicerec’s Anything but Rap Album of the Year: Umberto- Prophecy of the Black Widow
DJ Nicerec’s MC of the Year- Danny Brown
DJ Nicerec’s Producer of the Year- Black Milk
DJ Nicerec’s Rookie of the Year- Doppelgangaz

Zemba’s LP’s of the Year
5. Flying Lotus – Cosmogramma
4. Exile – AM/FM
3. Kanye West – My Beautiful Twisted Dark Fantasy
2. The Roots – How I Got Over
1. Black Milk – Album of the Year

Zemba’s EP’s of the Year
5. Tokimonsta – Cosmic Intoxication
4. Computer J and Dam Funk – LA 7
3. Freddie Joachim – AM
2. Fulll Crate & Mar – Conversations with Her
1. FS Green and Full Crate – Hi Hat Club Vol. 5: Eggs and Pancakes

Zemba’s Mixtape of the Year:
Letherette – Beat Showcase 003

http://www.jpittsshow.com/

Show some love to Justin on his facebook page:
www.facebook.com/jdotpitts

Enjoy,
M.G.

Grand Groove Radio Holiday Edition (#39)

2010-12-27T13:13:00.000-08:00

Grand Groove Radio airs live every Sunday night from 12am-4am with DJ Selecta on 91.3FM WYEP in Pittsburgh and online worldwide. He can be reached @ 412-916-7365.
All music for consideration can be mailed to:
91.3fm WYEP
Grand Groove Radio
Attention/James Scoglietti
67 Bedford Square
Pittsburgh PA 15203

Download link for this Holiday Edition Show:
http://www.areweontheair.com/grandgroove122010.mp3

12:00 AM Bill Cosby Fat Albert Christmas Special 12" White 2:00
12:02 AM Grillade Just A Sad Christmas 12" White 4:01
12:06 AM Jimmy Smith God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman (Oh No Remix-Mic Break erve Remixed Christmas Verve 2:30
12:09 AM Mayer Hawthorne Christmas Time Is Here 12" White 3:00
12:12 AM Dj Jazzy Jeff & Ayah Xmas Time 12" White 3:02
12:16 AM Mar Last Christmas (Mar Variation) Mar Variations White 2:55
12:19 AM Musiq Soulchild O Christmas Tree Christmas Musiq Columbia 4:22
12:23 AM Rahsaan Patterson Wonderful Christmastime The Ultimate Gift Artistry Music
12:27 AM Collette Keep Christmas Alive 12" White 3:12
12:30 AM Stephen Colbert & John Legend Nutmeg A Colbert Christmas: The Greatest Gift of All! Comedy Central 3:00
12:33 AM The Soul Saints Orchestra Santa's Got A Bag Of Soul In The Christmas Groove Strut 3:44
12:36 AM Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings Ain't No Chimneys in the Projects 7" Daptone 3:01
12:39 AM Binky Griptite Stone Soul Christmas 7" Daptone 3:20
12:42 AM Rufus Thomas I'll Be Your Santa, Baby Very Best of Rufus Thomas Stax 3:45
12:45 AM Albert King Santa Claus Wants Some Lovin' Christmas In Soulsville Stax 4:34
12:50 AM James Brown Soulful Christmas Funky Christmas Polydor 3:23
12:53 AM Carla Thomas Gee Whiz, It's Christmas The Complete Stax-Volt Singles 1959-1968 Stax 3:40
12:55 AM Milly & Silly Getting Down For Xmas-Mic Break In The Christmas Groove Strut 3:00
12:58 AM Shawn Lee's Ping Pong Orchestra My Favorite Things-Mic Break A Very Ping Pong Christmas: Funky Treats From Santa's Bag Ubiquity 1:30
1:00 AM Run-DMC Christmas In Hollis 12" White 2:59
1:02 AM Clarence Carter Back Door Santa 7" Atlantic 2:33
1:04 AM Dana Dane Dana Dane Is Coming To Town Christmas Rap Profile 3:00
1:07 AM Sweet Tee Let The Jingle Bells Rock 12" Profile 3:33
1:10 AM Juice Crew Cold Chillin' Christmas Winter Warnerland Warner Brothers 4:02
1:14 AM Hard Call Xmas My Christmas Bells Peanut Butter Wolf Presents Badd Santa Stones Throw 3:00
1:17 AM Blondie & Fab 5 Freddy Yuletown Throw Down (Rapture) 12" Chrysalis 3:30
1:20 AM Treacherous Three (Feat. Doug E. Fresh) Santa's Rap 12" Sugar Hill Records 4:00
1:24 AM Super Jay Santa's Rap Party 12" Sound Of New York, USA, Lonnie Records 3:22
1:28 AM Bootsy Collins Santa's Coming (AKA Santa Claus Is Coming To Town) Christmas Is 4 Ever Shout! Records 3:59
1:32 AM Kanye West Christmas In Harlem (feat CyHi Da Prynce) 12" G.O.O.D. Music 4:00
1:37 AM The Roots Millie Pulled a Pistol on Santa Just Say Noël Geffen Records 3:55
1:41 AM Kev Brown Christmas Wish (Feat. Tanzania) A Low Budget Christmas White 3:22
1:46 AM RoddyRod Donny's Carol A Low Budget Christmas White 2:45
1:49 AM Cocoa Tea Christmas Is Comming Rocking Dolly RAS 3;00
1:52 AM Horace Andy Christmas Time 12" RAS 2:49
1:55 AM Freddie McGregor Come All Ye Faithful A Reggae Christmas RAS 3:00
2:02 AM Leaders Of The New School Classic Material T.I.M.E. Elektra 3:02
2:07 AM Ultramagnetic MC's Raise It Up 12" Wild Pitch 3:32
2:11 AM Caig Mack Get Down (Q-Tip Remix) 12" Bad Boy 3:00
2:14 AM EPMD You're A Customer 12" Sleeping Bag 2:45
2:17 AM House Of Pain Word Is Bond [Diamond D Remix] 12" Tommy Boy 2:56
2:18 AM Bizmarkie Pickin' Boogers Goin' Off Cold Chillin' 2:00
2:20 AM De La Soul Afro Connection At A Hi 5 De La Soul Is Dead Tommy Boy 3:45
2:23 AM Marley Marl The Symphony In Control Volume 1 Cold Chillin' 4:02
2:29 AM Marley Marl The Symphony Pt. 2 In Control Volume 2 Cold Chillin' 2:22
2:32 AM A Tribe Called Quest The Hop Beats, Rhymes & Life Jive 2L33
2:35 AM D-Nice Call Me D-Nice Crumbs On The Table Jive 2:37
2:40 AM Special Ed Taxing Youngest In Charge Profile 2:49
2:42 AM Eric B & Rakim Paid In Full Paid In Full 4th & Bwy 2:21
2:44 AM Poor Righteous Teachers Time to Say Peace (Remix) 12" Profile 2:04
2:47 AM Common Communism Resurrection Relativity 2:06
2:49 AM Naughty By Nature Uptown Anthem 12" MCA 2:31
2:51 AM Big Daddy Kane Raw 12" Prism 2:01
2:52 AM Redhead Kingpin Do The RIght Thing A Shade Of Red Virgin 2:00
2:54 AM Digital Underground Doowutchyalike Sex Packets Tommy Boy 4:32
2:59 AM UMC's One To Grow On Fruits Of Nature Wild Pitch 3:00
3:02 AM The Detroit Experiment Think Twice The Detroit Experiment Planet E 6:18
3:10 AM Erik Rico & Marc Mac Destiny DIrect Soul EP Third Planet 4:12
3:14 AM Glenn Lewis Good One 12" White 3:06
3:17 AM Peter Brown For Your Love 12" T.K. Records 4:12
3:22 AM Rahsann Patterson What Am I Gonna Do (Spinna Mix) 12" Dome Records 7:00
3:28 AM Light Of The World London Town 12" Mercury 3:25
3:32 AM Screan & Shout 1 (Feat. Miles Bonny) 12" White 3:12
3:38 AM D'Angelo Left & Right (Sam Champ Remix) 12" White 4:00
3:42 AM Dwele Free As A Bird Sketches Of A Man Kock Records 3:26
3:45 AM Eric Roberson Been In Love (Feat. Phonte) Left Blue Erro Soul 3:53
3:49 AM The Foreign Exchange Don't Wait Authenticity FE Music 3:52
3:52 AM ZO! & Tiagllo Something About You (Nicolay's Quite Storm Nighty Night Remix) ZO! & TIgallo Love The 80's ZO! 4:05
3:56 AM The Pharcyde Emerald Butterfly 12" Delcious Vinyl 4:01

Enjoy,
M.G.

Alicia Keys Sample from You Don't Know My Name

2010-12-27T12:56:00.000-08:00

(1:45)

Enjoy,
M.G.

The White Album gets an MF Doom Spin

2010-12-08T15:09:00.000-08:00

(1:49)

Enjoy,
M.G.

Friday Feel Good Jam

2010-12-03T13:12:00.000-08:00

Clavius Crates

2010-11-29T13:53:00.000-08:00

Get to know Clavius Crates. Thanks to DJ B-Tips who played this for me while we were cutting up some records, I fell in love with this track. The group is out of Ann Arbor, Michigan and can really bring the funk. DJ Cataclysmic has a nice little solo in the video as well.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Friday Feel Good Jam

2010-11-12T08:24:00.000-08:00

Enjoy,

M.G.

Kanye West Slow Jamz Sample

2010-11-11T10:53:00.001-08:00

Luther Vandross - A House is not a Home (5:55)

Kanye West- Slow Jamz

Enjoy,
M.G.

Michael Larsen aka Eyedea Dead at 28

2010-10-18T21:45:00.000-07:00

Sad to say that rapper Michael Larsen, who goes by the stage name of Eyedea passed away in his sleep Sunday morning. Larsen was 28 years old. First time I saw Eyedea perform was in my college dorm room watching the Blaze Battle in 2000 on HBO. He had a special performance through this tournament bracket single elimination format. At the time Ali Vegas was a heavy favorite and New York City native that had a lot of buzz in the underground. Eyedea won the battle between the two in the first round and Eyedea moved on to win the whole thing. He continued to perform and eventually teamed up with DJ Abilities to make the duo Eyea & Abilities. Prayers and thoughts go out to his family and friends. R.I.P. Eyedea.

Clip from the Blaze Battle vs. R.K.

Eyedea and Abilities - Junk

Enjoy,
M.G.

Cage- Probably Causes Paranoia

2010-10-14T02:07:00.000-07:00

Sound Familiar?

The LP version.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Bobbito Garcia's Álala Records

2010-10-13T18:40:00.000-07:00

ÁLALA Records is Bobbito Garcia's new vinyl-only label, and third imprint in his 15 years of releasing forward thinking music on wax.

In 1997, the visionary DJ put out M.F. Doom's first album DOOMSDAY on his FONDLE'EM hip hop imprint. Later that year, FONDLE'EM was voted Best Indie Label (all genres) by URB Magazine.

From 2001 to 2003, Kool Bob Love expanded wonderfully to other genres with FRUITMEAT, licensing 7" and 12" releases from eventual Grammy Award winners The Spanish Harlem Orchestra. FRUITMEAT was also responsible for debuting Vinia Mojica as a solo artist with her "Guilt Junkie" single produced by Geology. The vocalist was reknowned for her work with De La Soul, Common, and Black Starr throughout the '90s.

In 2010, Bobbito returned to the vinyl market with Álala Records, distributed by FAT BEATS (www.fatbeats.com). Here's a list of the releases, with music ranging from Latin Funk (Yosaku), Neo-Soul (Mark de Clive-Lowe), Afro-beat/Hip Hop (Blitz), and Boricua Roots (Tato Torres y YERBABUENA)!

Yosaku feat. Bobbito "Malembe" 7"
http://fatbeats.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=9311

Mark de Clive-Lowe presents Lady Alma/Rahel "I Can't Help It"/"Hope" 7"
http://fatbeats.com/catalog/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=976&products_id=9339

Blitz The Ambassador "Remembering The Future"/"Breathe" 7"
http://fatbeats.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=9521

Tato Torres y YERBABUENA "Casita De Chema"/"Ser De Borinquen" 7"
http://fatbeats.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=9586

Be on the lookout for future 7"s by Jesse Boykins III, Riri Garcia, Khethi (from South Africa), Coultrain, and Bobbito's own Álala live band project!
www.fatbeats.com

I wish Bobbito Garcia the best with this one!

Enjoy.
M.G.

Friday Feel Good Jam

2010-10-08T09:47:00.000-07:00

Enjoy,
M.G.

Rob Swift

2010-10-05T06:17:00.000-07:00

This is a badass pic of a badass DJ. I had the pleasure of seeing Rob Swift last year and I was not dissapointed. The former member of the x-ecutioners has been doing his thing over a decade and just showing some love today. I hope he comes back to Pittsburgh soon.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Friday Feel Good Jam

2010-10-01T12:02:00.000-07:00

Enjoy
M.G.

Notorious B.I.G.- Ready to Die Sample

2010-09-29T11:51:00.000-07:00

Dave Grusin - Either Way

Enjoy
M.G.

Grand Groove Radio #28

2010-09-27T16:03:00.000-07:00

Grand Groove Radio is a very soulful show on 91.3 FM in Pittsburgh, PA. DJ Selecta plays these wonderful jams every Sunday night from 12 am - 4am. If you have questions or want to show your support:

91.3 FM WYEP
Attn: James Scoglietti
67 Bedford Square
Pittsburgh PA 15203

Here is the playlist from show #28. And the download link to listen is:
http://www.areweontheair.com/grandgroove092010.mp3

Time Artist Song Album
09/20/10 - 12:00 am - WYEP Afterhours: Monday with Selecta
12:00 am Twizz Rememberlude (Feat. PM) 12"
12:06 am The Floacist Forever (Feat. Musiq Soulchild) 12"
12:10 am Esthero Thank Heaven 4 You (Freddie Joachim Remix) Olive Juice (Love Remixes Vol. 1)
12:13 am Full Crate, FS Green & Grand Jackson Feel Like (Feat. Mar) HomeMade
12:16 am Joanna Newsom The Book of Right-On The Milk-Eyed Mender
12:19 am The Roots Right On (Feat. Joanna Newsom & STS) How I Got Over
12:24 am John Legend & The Roots Little Ghetto Boy (feat. Black Thought) Wake Up Everybody!
12:28 am John Legend & The Roots Hang On In There Wake Up Everybody!
12:32 am Kanye West Lord Lord Lord (Feat. Mos Def, Swizz Beatz, Raekwon & Charlie Wilson) 12"
12:38 am Trackademics Fool On The Hill (Feat. Phonte 12"
12:46 am Fata Hey Jij Gewoon Bam
12:49 am Consequence Got Me Trippin (The Amerie Joint) 12"
12:52 am Black Milk Over Again (feat Monica Blaire) Album Of The Year
12:56 am Huey Nuetron (B Blunt + Vex) I Just Wanna Be 12"
09/20/10 - 1:00 am - WYEP Afterhours: Monday with Selecta
1:03 am Mayer Hawthorne No Strings (Classixx Original) 12"
1:07 am Paper Dolls I Can't Get You Off Of My Heart 12"
1:11 am Roy Ayers Aragon Coffy OST
1:14 am Jonnny Pate Can't Even Walk Shaft In Africa
1:17 am Edwin Starr Easin' In Hell Up In Harlem (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)
1:19 am Martha Reeves Keep On Movin' On Willie Dynamite (Music From The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)
1:23 am Bobby Womack Across 110th Street Across 110th Street
1:27 am James Brown Make It Good To Yourself Black Caesar
1:30 am Willie Hutch Brother's Gonna Work It Out The Mack OST
1:34 am The Impressions Make A Resolution Three The Hard Way (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)
1:38 am Isaac Hayes Run Fay Run
1:41 am Brer Soul & Earth Wind & Fire Sweetback's Theme Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song
1:43 am Mike Bloomfield / Al Kooper / Stephen Stills Season Of The Witch Super Session
1:46 am James Mason Funny Girl Rhythm Of Life
1:57 am Kool & The Gang Give It Up Kool & The Gang
09/20/10 - 2:00 am - WYEP Afterhours: Monday with Selecta
2:00 am Uptown Dope On Plastic 12"
2:03 am MC Lyte Cappuccino (Remix) 12"
2:06 am Mic Geronimo Unstoppable 12"
2:09 am Cannonball Adderly Capricorn Soul Zodiac
2:10 am Pete Rock & CL Smooth In The House Mecca & The Soul Brother
2:12 am Lords Of The Underground Flow On 12"
2:13 am John Legend & The Roots Our Generation (J.Period Remix) Feat. Pete Rock & CL Smooth Wake Up Everybody!
2:17 am Tower Of Power Sparkling in the Sand East Bay Grease
2:18 am Diamond D Sally Got A One Track Mind Stunts, Blunts, & Hip-Hop
2:20 am Show & AG Fat Pockets (Remix) 12"
2:22 am Doo Wop The Bounce Master 12"
2:24 am Charles Wright What Can You Bring Me You're So Beautiful
2:27 am Brand Nubian Punks Jump Up To Get Beat Down 12"
2:30 am Brand Nubian Punks Jump Up To Get Beat Down (Diamond D Remix) 12'
2:32 am Beatnuts Reign Of The Tec !2"
2:33 am Organized Konfusion Stress Stress:The Exinction Agenda
2:34 am Smif-N-Wessun Let's Get It On Dah Shining
2:37 am Nas Represent Illmatic
2:41 am War Deliver The Word Deliver The Word
2:44 am Gangstarr The Planet Hard To Earn
2:47 am Gangstarr Brooklyn 12"
2:48 am Main Source Fakin' The Funk White Man Can't Jump EP
2:51 am Special Ed The Mission Legal
2:54 am Eric B & Rakim Lyrics Of Fury Follow The Leader
2:55 am Jungle Brothers Straight Out The Jungle Straight Out The Jungle
2:57 am Mandrill Mango Meat Just Outside Of Town
09/20/10 - 3:00 am - WYEP Afterhours: Monday with Selecta
3:01 am Foreign Exchange Come Around Connected
3:04 am Mabanua Mystery (Feat. Nicholas Ryan Gant) Done Already
3:07 am Will Sessions Kindred A Tribute To The Pioneers of Jazz Fusion EP
3:12 am Fatima Warm Eyes (Feat. Dam-Funk) Mindtravelin EP
3:17 am Yahzarah Cry Over You (Feat. Phonte) The Ballad Of Purple St. James
3:19 am Jim Bennett Hold That Groove Peoples Potential Family Album
3:23 am D-Train You're The One For Me 12"
3:26 am Mophono Tighten Up 7"
3:30 am Curtis Mayfield (Don't Worry) If There's A Hell Below We're All Going To Go Curtis
3:33 am Rudy Ray Moore's Filmore Street Soul Rebellion Put Your Weight On It 7"
3:37 am Kitty Winter Gypsy Nova New Morning Feel It
3:40 am Quantic Presenta Flowering Inferno Dub Y Guaguanco Dog With A Rope
3:44 am Soulive Something Rubber Soulive
3:47 am Bootsy's Rubber Band Rather Be With You 7"
3:52 am Erykah Badu Certainly (Flipped It) Baduizm
3:54 am The Pharcyde Emerald Butterfly 7"
3:56 am Zo! and Tigallo Take On Me (Feat. Phonte & Carlitta Durand) Zo! and Tigallo

Show your support and hit up James Scoglietti aka DJ Selecta on his facebook page. He is the man on the wheels at Shadow Lounge for his regular set Classic Material which is just like it sounds, all classic hip hop gems. I thoroughly enjoy Classic Material Nights and they often have great acts to finish up the night that are in theme for the music being played. Such pasts guests include Large Professor, Pete Rock and Rob Swift just to name a few. Keith Murray will be coming next on October 16th, make sure to get your tickets for that.

http://www.facebook.com/jscoglietti

Enjoy,

M.G.

P.U.T.S.

2010-09-25T09:40:00.001-07:00

It's People Under the Stairs appreciation day :-). My favorite Hip-Hop act who hail from Los Angeles occupied my time last night as I just couldn't take my head phones off. Here are some lovely jams for you guys. Have a great weekend.

Free Download of The Outage
http://www.mediafire.com/?e67vainht5oos87

Free Download of The Dig
http://www.mediafire.com/?e67vainht5oos87

Free Download of Good Co.
http://www.mediafire.com/?e67vainht5oos87

Enjoy,
M.G.

Friday Feel Good Jam

2010-09-24T11:44:00.000-07:00

J Sands & A.C. the PD - Why Ya'll Hating AC?

2010-09-24T11:19:00.001-07:00

AC The PD & JSands - Why Yall Hating AC by A.C. The P.D.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Substantial and A.C. the PD - Humble Beginnings

2010-09-23T10:51:00.000-07:00

Substantial and AC The PD - HumbleBeginnings ref by A.C. The P.D.

Enjoy,
M.G.

Friday Feel Good Jam

2010-09-16T11:54:00.000-07:00

It's coming a day early, I'm out of town visiting one of my best friends at the beach. :-)

Dr.Oop Capone - The Greatful Dread

2010-09-15T20:39:00.000-07:00

I'm super excited to provide a link to what is to be a mega smash of a true hip-hop album. Dr. Oop Capone from Los Angeles California has just released The Greatful Dread LP. I am feeling this from start to finish, extremely fresh, funky and just makes you want to smile and move your feet. The breakout single is titled Green Butta and here is a link to that video.

I would like to give a special thanks to A.C. the Program Director for leaking this to me this past December when they were finishing everything up on the album. Have been bumping it ever since. Here is a link to purchase the LP for $10 or individual mp3's for $1. Enjoy.

http://droop-capone.bandcamp.com/album/the-grateful-dread

Thanks
M.G.

Solid Hip-Hop Mix

2010-09-14T10:44:00.000-07:00

Inspired by DJ Selecta's Classic Material Night, here ya go keeping the solid hip-hop alive.

1. Ultramagnetic MC's - Ego Trippin
2. Fu-Schnickens - True Fu-Schnick
3. Public Enemy - Shut em' Down (Pete Rock Remix)
4. The Pharcyde- Officer
5. Smiff N Wessun feat. Keith Murray - Pay Ya Dues
6. Blackmoon- How Many MC's
7. Gangstarr- All 4 the Cash
8. Krs-One - Outta Here
9. Yo-Yo feat. Ice Cube - You Can't Play With My Yo Yo
10. LL Cool J - Jingling Baby
11. Lord Finesse- Down For the Underground
12. Masta Ace - Sittin' On Chrome
13. Ice Cube - Check Yo Self (Original)
14. Jeru The Damaja - Come Clean
15. Kurious - Walk Like a Duck
16. N.W.A.- Fuck the Police
17. Public Enemy - Public Enemy No.1
18. Wu-Tang Clan - Protect Ya Neck

Free Download
http://www.mediafire.com/?nucpn448icvyavp

Thanks,
M.G.

Friday Feel Good Jam

2010-09-14T10:42:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Roy Ayers.

Conversation With Basick Sickness

2010-09-09T10:45:00.000-07:00

An in depth look into the recording artist and his group that make up Basick Sickness. Having rocked over 200 shows and going strong I dig into what is behind this powerful force on the music scene.

What are your earliest memories of music you enjoyed when you were growing up?

My first concert was Michael Jackson. My first casette was Public Enemy. My first CD was Aerosmith - Get a Grip. First record was the McDonalds Menu Rap (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=da7LMVB68j8). I remember breaking my dad's electric guitar and rocking out to my grandpaps accordion. My grandfather was in a band with his four brothers called the 4 Aces. I have also always loved rock and rap.

When did you decide you wanted to be more than a listener and become a performer?

I got my first guitar when i was in 5th grade. The change really came when I worked at Starlake Ampitheatre around the same time and saw so many live concerts, every genre. I was hooked. I started writing lyrics in 9th grade.

Your music does not easily fit into traditional categories, how would you describe yourself as an artist?

Creative. eclectic. diverse. great. Obsessed with many different acts and arts. Thats why my music is accepted by different genres and also why I have my hand in so many different creative outlets.

Your group is comprised of yourself, Joe Palermo and Isaac Goldszer (DJ B-Tips), can you explain the roles you play to form Basick Sickness?

I am the captain of the ship and the story of Joe and I go back to the 4th grade. We had a band back then, he moved away, came back like 4 years later and it was like we never missed a beat. Joe is the man behind the boards. We pride ourselves on doing EVERYTHING ourselves: creating, recording, mixing and mastering. We paid for studio time once... he is extremely talented with mixing and mastering, he is a beast on the drums and with programming. He used to be the hype man when we did hip-hop shows and he ususally pukes before every performance. B-Tips (slips) is the DJ and a late edition to the group. From the jump he came in as the DJ for the hip-hop performances, but I had bigger plans for him from the first time we met (we had a hit radio show on WPTS - "The Pre-game Show" for over two years) - for him to DJ in the full band. He is a very very talented DJ and total artist in his own rite. B-Tips writes (better than some local rappers) and can play a few instruments himself. We also have a guitar player,Rick Topping, who plays with us occasionally for live shows. As I previously said, his role is guitar and backing vocals.

What are some personal goals of yours at the moment?

New music new music new music new music new music. I feel as though we are very very well established in the local hip-hop scene. Next venture is the local rock scene. Releasing the EP, "Before It's Too Late" and jumping right into the next full LP.

Do you feel that Pittsburgh is a place that you can grow as a musician and achieve your goals?

Of course and if not, than it wasnt meant to be. I love everything about Pittsburgh.

If you could change something within the music industry, what would it be?

Not so much the industry, just my position in it. Labels are afraid to take and sign great acts because they dont have 1,000,000 YouTube hits.

What was your most fulfilling moment(s) in music thus far?

Opening for acts that I look up to. Stage diving at one of my own shows. Performing for thousands of people and making music that i like to listen to and feel proud of.

Tell us about your new music that you’re working on.

We are about to release a new EP called, "Before It's Too Late". The whole EP has all live drums, guitars, and bass. Its rowdy as hell. It will be on my twitter, facebook, myspace, and i'm sure the links will be everywhere. I hate over promotion, but yes this will be everywhere. Should be out first week of October, but we'll see... I always write, even when not making new music or recording, but at the moment we are really in a good place creatively and I do not want to stop.

Basick, thank you very much for me and your fans this opportunity. They were recently showcased as part of a mixtape that was released this past April called, You Know! Vol.1 by DJ NoPhrillz. The mixtape included national recording artist Fabolous, Flo Rida, Wale, J Cole and many others. You can contact Basick Sickness as well as Joe Palermo and DJ B-Tips on their social network sites listed at:

http://www.basicksickness.com/

Thanks

M.G.

Friday Feel Good Jam

2010-09-08T20:42:00.000-07:00

2010-09-02T17:16:00.000-07:00

Friday Feel Good Jam

2010-08-30T13:42:00.000-07:00