Electric Relaxation Radio

Named after a classic song by A Tribe Called Quest, Morgan State University's number one college radio show, "Electric Relaxation" radio is making a tremendous name for itself in the Mid-Atlantic region. Based in Baltimore, Maryland, Zea Hart was formulated an eclectic play list that is infinite beyond all rational and a great conversation piece for you to follow along with on every show. Electric Relaxation radio is a great alternative to any radio show that is watered-down with top-40 play lists and way too many commercial ads. Expect to hear all of the great hits in the soul, R&B, and hip-hop music genres (both mainstream and independent). Download the very first show of the Fall season 2008:

http://www.zshare.net/audio/19355469b3ef0045/

Somobe Leaks New Single!

Somobe is a duo that I had the pleasure of interviewing earlier this year of HipHopRemix.com; they have leaked out a new single entitled "Red, Blue, Green." It is free to download on their Myspace page; do yourself a favor and go and add them as a friend (if you already have not) and download the "Red, Blue, Green" mp3. Trust me, this hip-hop duo is pushing the envelop of what is considered "good music" with their first album, "The Great Communication." It was probably one of the best albums I heard in 2007 (by far). When paralleling Somobe with another group of hip-hop artists, I would definitely like to call them the "two-man Roots crew." I have nothing but great things to say about these cats and their great music.

Check out their Myspace page:
http://www.myspace.com/somobe

7 Daize

Hailing from the Bay Area comes a female/male duo with the talent and charisma to take them beyond the heights of many Bay Area artists that have come before them. Gyrl Ab'strakt and DJ Cleve have come together bringing the fresh new sound of hip-hop that this generation has been lacking; substance. With their release EP, "Mr. and Ms. Pakman," they take the listener on a auditory vacation that lasts far beyond the seven songs it displays. This group is gearing to drop their debut full-length album soon and will be dropping a weekly exclusive song to add to your iPod to keep you bang your head. With 7 Daize, you can expect to hear something that the game has been missing for a long time, a true essence of clarity. The hip-hop without the preservatives and fillers is what 7 Daize brings to the forefront. When listening to their music, expect only the true sheer elements of hip-hop music. Be expecting to hear a lot more from this group in the near future.

Check out their Myspace:
http://www.myspace.com/7daizemusic

Ise Lyfe "Bad Word Bounce"

Ise Lyfe "Bad Word Bounce"

I heard about this cat from a friend of mine that goes to an open mic session that is done every Wednesday night at the Air Lounge here in Oakland, and I did not really pay him any mind. Seeing this video definitely opened my eyes more to this dude. I was just talking to friends months ago about someone making a video dissing all the minstrel cats in the mainstream realms of hip-hop; I'm glad someone had the balls to do it.

Scanz

Scanz "A Dimepiece"

This is one of the latest artists to get signed to Rawkus 50, and I was actually sent this video from a friend of mine. I was truly impressed with what I heard in this video and will definitely be getting his album as soon as possible.

N*E*R*D* "Seeing Sounds"

I had no idea that N.E.R.D. was dropping an album today until a friend of mine had told me about it yesterday. I woke this morning and placed “Seeing Sounds” on; I was completely blown away by the beautiful blending of vocals of Pharrell Williams and Shay Haley and Chad Hugo’s production. There’s no other group out that is hardly as eclectic as these two Virginia natives, and “Seeing Sounds” is definite proof of this statement being so true. The song, “Everybody Nose” instantly bangs through my stereo and is extremely reminiscent of production of hip-hop when it was in its Golden Age (1988-1996). This song is definitely something that you should add to your “Get the Party Started” play list on your iPod because it will for sure get your ass up and ready to hit the club.

“Seeing Sounds” is only 12 songs, and will have you wishing that it was 24 tracks longer by how complete and great it is. This album has something for everyone’s musical pallet; “Anti-Matter” and “Everybody Nose” for the hardcore hip-hop heads, “Yeah You” and “You Know What” for the soulful cats, and “Spaz” for the rock fans. The eclectic level of “Seeing Sounds” is damn strong enough to have music fans of all different genres to be able to find songs that will fit their personal preference. “You Know What” being one of those truly feel-good songs has the power to have to nodding your head for the 4 and a half minute vacation to a musical utopia of peace that it takes you to. With the smooth guitar and synth production and dramatic bass line in complete unison placed together with Pharrell’s contagious vocals and lyrical content, “You Know What” compliments “Seeing Sounds” completely. Another song that you can add to that “Get the Party Started” play list for your “getting ready for the club” mood is “Laugh About It.” Pharrell’s vocals over the party-driven beats of Chad Hugo on this song makes you feel at ease with whatever is stressing you in your life; it has that element to bring the most stressed day into an ideal one. By far every song on “Seeing Sounds” is great, but there’s something so incredible about “Sooner or Later.” The breakdown at the end of “Sooner or Later” is so dynamic that you feel invigorated by how talented all three of N.E.R.D.’s members are; a near seven-minute musical wonder it is for sure! Who would have thought a song about an annoying person sending you text messages and calling you all day could sound so smooth? Only N.E.R.D. on the song “Yeah You!”

Unlike most albums nowadays where you’ll buy an album with 15 songs and only 3 will be good, “Seeing Sounds” by N.E.R.D. will not be disappointing at all! Go cop that! NOW! “Seeing Sounds” blows most currently-released albums out of the water with its complete and utter sheer explosiveness of talent. This damn album will be in heavy rotation for a long time.

Nas "Be A Nigger Too"

"Be A Nigger Too" was the first single dropped on Nas's hella controversial album that previously was entitled "Nigger" but now is titled "The N Word" over problems with using the original title with distribution. I would like to know what all of you think about this album. Offended? Like it? Comments would be gratefully appreciated.

Hip-hop Vs. Hip-POP

Hip-hop in the nature of the threat of capitalism is a problem that is not new to the culture. Venture capitalists such as Viacom, MTV, and BET have come into the hip hop culture and turned it into a cash cow. What a lot of people do not seem to realize about hip-hop is that it is much more than music, it is a culture. Break dancing, graffiti, and turntablism are the 3 other corresponding elements of the hip-hop culture that are often forgotten and misinterpreted. It has always been a truly interesting thing to me to see how conglomerate companies like Viacom could take a culture as raw as the day it was birthed in the streets of New York City, and strip down the music into a minstrel entertainment ground for the current generation that are now in there growing teenage and elementary years. But, the so-called genre of hip-hop that is portrayed through the mediums of radio and TV airwaves to the youth is what I like to call “hip-pop.” The whole message in the music has been lost; you now can turn on your television set to MTV or BET (both owned by the same conglomerate, Viacom) and see the 21^st century minstrel show for yourself. This diamond-laden jewelry that these cats worship and exalt so highly looks like an iced-out noose and shackles to me. The overly-gaudy clothing that these cats rock shuckin’ and juvin’ on the television sets looks like the stereotype of the Zip Coon here to entertain the middle-class white kids that consume 70 percent of hip-pop albums.

Viacom has stripped down the true hidden message of upbringing, pride, and self-awareness that was birthed and installed into the true essence of hip-hop music. Since Viacom and Clear Channel damn near own all of the television and radio stations in this country, they control the mainstream music market. Why would they distribute hip-hop music with a higher message and purpose when they can keep the youth in disarray and brainwashed with the minstrel show rappers out now? Exactly; it’s a huge cash cow to them. What sense does it make to be a “hip-pop” artist when you do not have the control over what can be placed on your album? The more ignorant the music gets, the more ignorant the youth become. Hip-hop music is a huge influence on people’s lives (our youth’s especially); as long as hip-hop artists still allow themselves and their talent to be stripped down and glittered up in the ridiculous jewelry, hip-hop will forever in Nasir Jones’ words be dead. But, to me, it will never be dead; it’s just on life support. Support the independent hip-hop music movement.

Trackademicks Interview

Being from the Bay Area where recently the Northern California region’s local hip-hop scene has been slated with the moniker of “hyphy,” there is a truly exceptional producer hailing from Alameda (an island just off the coast of Oakland). He has made a solid name for himself by remixing songs such as “Tell Me When To Go” by E-40, “Never Be The Same Again” by Ghostface Killah, and even Jill Scott’s “Golden.” Trackademicks might not be a household name yet, but he has the talent from production to do great things in the music world. I seen Trackademicks at a show he had with Zion I in January here in San Francisco, and I was really blown away by his production and live set! After meeting DJ Tap 10 (his DJ) and talking to him for a bit, Tap handed me Trackademicks’ “[RE]mixtape Volume 1.” From the first listen of this mixtape, I knew right then and there that Trackademicks would become a producer that I would be looking forward to hearing new material from on a regular basis. I got the opportunity to talk to Trackademicks about his latest release, “The [RE]mixtape Volume 2,” his formula for remixing, etc:

Being from the San Francisco Bay Area, what local bands, rappers, etc. have been influences on you in the way you formulate your production? What equipment do you use for making your beats, and do you play live instruments?

The Bay is so prolific when it comes to music. In terms of artists from the Bay that have directly influenced my style, Raphael Saadiq, Hieroglyphics, and the Khayree’s production have all been very important. I think the most important thing I’ve taken from the region is the overall laid back feeling in the music, the classic overarching theme and elements of cool and chill in the music. Khayree’s productions for Ray Luv, Mac Dre, and Mac Mall were what made me fall in love with lead synth lines and beat switch ups in a Mobb music format. Hiero did hip-hop that was so quintessentially west coast that I fell in love with everything from the way the samples were flipped to the enunciation in their raps. Raphael Saadiq is just amazing. His work everyone from the Roots to Kelis has been important to the soul aesthetic in my music. In my opinion, he’s the best producer out of the Bay…

As far as my weapons of choice, I learned to make beats on an Ensoniq ASR-88. That has remained the centerpiece of my production process. I also use Roland Juno 60, a Nord Lead, a Seil DK 600, Reason, Pro Tools and a gang of records. I played the saxophone from the fourth through the twelfth grade. All that time spent in the school band was extremely important for my development as a producer, as it gave me a background in music theory.

What is the group, Honor Roll? How did all of you guys come together to create this group? How did you meet DJ Tap 10?

Most of us came up together. I’m a proponent of crews getting together organically as we did. There are seven of us in the crew: DJ Tap.10 (DJ/A&R), Mike Baker the Bike Maker (MC), Spank Pops (MC), Moxmore (MC), 1 O.A.K. (Artist/Producer), Josie Stingray (MC), and myself (Artist/Producer). I went to high school with Mike Baker and Moxmore. We joined Youth Radio, a Berkeley based youth organization, and met DJ Tap.10. 1 O.A.K. was also part of Youth Radio. Spank Pops and Josie came to be part of the crew through a close friend. We were all into the same music and understood the importance of making well-informed music for the Fre$h generation to bridge gap between old and the new, infusing it with artistic influences from all genres. The Honor Roll is here to turn the ideal into reality.

Your latest release, “The [RE] mixtape Volume 2” had hella songs on it that I was feeling! My favorite song on there was with Little Brother’s Phonte, “Halfway.” Which songs on the mixtape are your favorites?

“Halfway” is a great song. Phonte is an amazing artist. I hooked up with him after doin’ the Windimoto Remix (he’s the vocalist on the song). I shot him a few beats and he banged this out with Carlitta Durand. As far as my favorites, I have to say that I love the whole project. The whole reason I make music is for my own listening pleasure. I hate to say it, but you might catch me slappin’ my own project on more than one occasion. This love I have for my own music is what keeps me making more. It’s about drive, not vanity.

Growing up, what genres of music were you exposed to that you now can say has helped mold your production style?

Before I was even into hip-hop I was into 80’s pop like Wham! and Tears For Fears, CTI Jazz like Grover Washington and Bob James, and R&B like Cherrelle and Bobby Brown. I would say that my musical sensibility is very rooted in the 80’s, with the prominence of synth-driven soundscapes. In high school, I really got into electronic music across the board, from deep house, to soulful drum & bass, to trip-hop, to broken beat. I love to mix rhythmic, melodic, and textural differences between all of these genres to create a new hybrid music. I’m biracial, Filipino and Black. I strive to make music how my parents made me… Mix it all up!

You have a very unique sound to your beats, man. I would describe it as ambient club lounge music or even chill-out at the crib music. How would you describe your music in your own words?

I usually let the music speak for itself instead of trying to describe it for artistic reasons.

However, taking a cue from the BEST group in hip-hop, Outkast, I call my brand of music “WesternSlapademickTenderSmobbinCosmicMusic”. The music is just that; Super-Sonic-Sensual-Soulectronic- Futuristic-Vintage-Synthetic-Classically-Intellectual-Slap! [This is] the soundtrack from the Fres$hcoast from the Fre$h Generation.

Are you currently working on any projects for anyone else or even yourself right now? What artists can music heads expect to hear that you have worked with in the near future?

Right now I have a lot on my plate. I have a 12” coming out on Fool’s Gold Records for “Enjoy What You Do”/”Topsidin’”. I did a couple beats and I am featured on Lyrics Born’s album that just dropped. I also did a song on Kid Sister’s upcoming debut album. On the remix tip, I just got commissioned to do a remix for Platinum Pied Piper’s first single off their upcoming release. I’m working with everyone in the Honor Roll on their respective projects. I am also finishing up my album and shopping it as we speak. We takin’these habitual truants back to class!

Are there new up and coming artists currently that you are feeling? I saw that you did a remix for the Carps’ song “The Tumultuous Adventures of JJ Iscariot & the Insatiable Booty Fanatic.” That shit was hot!

The Carps are the homies! As far as new artists, there are a couple that I’m feeling. I’ve been on Janelle Monae for a minute. She’s out of Atlanta and just got signed to Bad Boy. She’s about to make a crazy impact. Santogold is also a monster. I’m feeling her project real tough right now. I’m also anticipating J*Davey’s upcoming project.

Lately, hip-hop has been labeled by media heads as this being the “age of ringtone rap.” How do you feel about this? How do you feel about the whole playing field of hip-hop as a whole right now? Do you believe that your influence can be a great impact on the music world?

It’s funny because the very term “Ringtone Rap” is telling of where the game is. In its current inception, mainstream hip-hop is largely dictated by commerce and not art. Much of the music that surfaces is a reaction to what is popular, an attempt by labels with artists and producers (read “indentured servants”) trying to jump on the bandwagon (which is now sitting on 24”s, of course!). That sounds harsh considering I like some of this “ringtone rap”. I feel that music production tools have become more cost effective and user friendly. Now aspiring beatmakers can make music cheap and fast. I think this is a good competitive environment because it forces the cream to rise to the top. The only issue I have with the current state of hip-hop is the lack of importance placed on originality and musical legacy. It seems that newcomers are just making music, disregarding unspoken rules because they haven’t been educated on the game. I believe that this is my primary function. I believe any sound has the ability to make an impact; its all about it being relevant to the audience. I chose to lead by example. I make music for people like me. People who love all kinds of food and aren’t scared when it touches on the plate. Funny thing is, I’m finding a whole lot of people who have the appetite and just need a suggestion on where to dine.

What are your top five favorite producers of all-time; who are your top five favorite bands and who are your top five favorite bands?

This is a super hard question… My answers change from week to week, with the same revolving casts and players… There are just too many strong frontrunners to name…

In no particular order:

Top Producers: The Neptunes, Dilla, DJ Quik, James Murphy, The Soulquarians…

Top five Artists: Outkast, N.E.R.D., Sade, Prince, Tears for Fears

If you could work with any musical band or artist (dead or alive), who would you want to work with?

This is a hard one… Stevie Wonder, Raphael Saadiq, Todd Rundgren, Dilla, Big L, Stereolab…

“The [RE]mixtape Vol.2” is a free download on Trackademicks’ Myspace page and it is definitely the most complete release I have heard this year so far. He remixes artists such as Snoop Dogg and Pharrell to even bands such as the Editors. Make sure to look out for any production slated by Track; it’s sure to keep your ass dancin’ and your head noddin’ the whole musical experience. Thanks, Track for the opportunity, brah. You have one hell of a bright future ahead of you.

Substantial Interview

The Maryland/ Washington DC area has never truly been known as a hotbed for producing hip-hop emcees on a national scale, but after attending a CunninLynguists show and seeing this young cat, Substantial (hailing from Prince George’s County, Maryland) I realized that I could not have been more wrong. I went to college out in Maryland and I had never even heard of this cat Substantial from any of my peers from the Mid-Atlantic region. In fact, the first time I had heard of Substantial was on Nujabes’ “Metaphorical Music” LP; Nujabes remixed Sub’s “Blessing It” and “Think Different.” On his latest solo release, ‘Sacrifice” Substantial displays the essential elements of extreme cadence and epic production within the 16 songs on the LP. You can catch Substantial’s two videos for the songs, “It’s You (I Think)” and “Resurrection of the House Party” on YouTube. He sat behind a merch table at the CunninLynguists show when I walked in and seemed like a truly humble dude. Substantial and I talk about his latest album, “Sacrifice,” his collaborations with Nujabes, and what he views the plateau of hip-hop at this present time.

First and foremost, I would like to thank you Substantial for taking time away from your busy schedule with your touring with CunninLynguists to conduct this interview with me. First things, first. Tell the readers why Substantial is bringing true substance to the hip-hop game.

The substance I bring comes from my everyday experiences. I am constantly trying to be the best “me”. So as long as I stay true to myself, I’ll always have a somewhat unique perspective because there’s only one me.

Being from the Mid-Atlantic region of Maryland/DC, a lot of our readers do not know too many rappers/emcees from the region. Frankly, man, the only hip-hop cats I can name from the area are Wale, Spank Rock, Kev Brown, and you. Who are some of the big names in the Maryland/DC area that most of the readers might not have heard of?

My man Oddisee has been doing the damn thing for a minute. He’s down with Kev Brown, who you mentioned before. Then of course, there’s Ken Starr who’s also down with them. There’s folks like Asheru, Storm the Unpredictable, Kokayi but a lot of times around here, we’re overshadowed by the local Go-Go bands. It’s all love though.

Are you working on any projects right now? What is keeping Substantial busy nowadays? Are you apart of any hip-hop groups or crews? What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I’m mainly promoting my album, “Sacrifice” right now, but I’m trying to wrap up this EP with a producer named Burns from Pittsburgh. It’s gonna be a 6 song project and [going to] keep the listeners wanting more.

I’m apart of Extended Famm, [With]The Joe Brothers and The Plague so of course, my pen gets little to no rest.

In my spare time I do graphic design, martial arts, and watch movies.

I met you touring with the CunninLynguists cats in San Francisco; what other artists have you toured with? How is it going touring with CunninLynguists? What city has been the most hype crowd so far on this tour, and what city do you most like performing in front of?

I have also toured with other members of QN5 Music (Mr. SOS, Pack FM, Session, & Tonedeff) and Nujabes. Most of the time when I’ve toured, it’s been solo.

The tour with CL has been great. They are some of the coolest folks you’ll ever meet and very professional. The city that was the most hype was definitely Eugene, OR. When I saw our tour schedule, I did not expect them to be that hype. But, they were pretty damn “awesome” (That was our official tour word). The city I had the most fun performing for was tied between Victoria, Canada and Bend, OR. All of the shows were a lot of fun, but it’s rare to see crowds so hyped about an artist they’ve never heard of.

Are there any other genres of music that you draw you’re musical influences from?

Although I listen to everything, I tend to draw most of my influences from Jazz & Soul Music.

How did you end up with being on QN5 Music with the likes of hip-hop cats such as Tonedeff and CunninLynguists?

I’ve known a lot of the artists on QN5 Music for years and had been featured on a lot of their releases. It was only a matter of time I guess. Once I was close to finishing “Sacrifice”, Tonedeff offered to help finish and release it. We’ve been labelmates ever since.

How did you end up with working with the Japanese producer, Nujabes? That song “Think Different” on his Metaphorical Music LP was hot!

Thanks bro. I met Nujabes through my friend, Sphere of Influence. The next thing I know, I’m in Japan recording my first full length LP.

I heard you mention that you were cool with Kool Herc. How did you end up meeting him and have you ever worked with him on any songs, parties, or shows? How does it feel to be acquainted with a hip-hop giant?

I met Herc through my wife’s college professor and not too long after that he ended up spinning at my wedding. We’ve worked together a few times. While I was working on “Sacrifice,” I recorded him and used his vocals for the hidden track on my album and I also do fliers for his parties occasionally. He’s a truly great brother. It’s rare that people get to meet the person who had a hand in creating what you’re passionate about, so I know it’s a blessing to be able to call him a friend.

On the song “A PG Boy,” you talk about growing up in Prince George’s County, Maryland. For the cats that are reading this right now, can you please explain to them a little more about your area? From growing up in Maryland, is the local go-go music a big influence in what you listen to? I know you got some Backyard Band and CCB songs in your iPod, man.

Ok surprise #1, I do not own an iPod. Surprise #2, I don’t listen to Go-Go that much. [I] gotta keep it all the way real with y’all. I still fool with Chuck Brown and I used to listen to a lot of Rare Essence and Northeast Groovers when I was younger, but I haven’t been following it as much these days. I do mess with a few of the new bands like LISSEN, UCB, and Mambo Sauce though.

As far as what it’s like around here... it’s everything. Wild sometimes but laid back. A lot of minorities are doing really well for themselves out here, but the hoods here are nothing to sleep on.

You had a real smooth, jazzy tone to your latest LP, “Sacrifice.” Did you produce anything on the LP? Who else produced on the album?

I didn’t handle any production on the record. I left it to folks like Kno & Deacon (CunninLynguists), Tonedeff, Fero Navi, Burns, Von Johnson, Donnan Links, Studio Steve Wallace, Final, Definition and my man Algorythm. Algorythm handled the most production on the project.

Since the title of your current album is “Sacrifice,” what do you feel like you had to sacrifice to get to where you are today? What would be the ultimate goal that you would like to accomplish in your lifetime?

I sacrificed a lot of rest, money and time with my family. The ultimate goal would be to raise and support a healthy family while doing what I love.

I was watching your video for the song “It’s You (I Think)” and I wanted to know if there was a female that was inspiration for the song. Was there a muse in the female form that made you decide to write the song? It was a great song by the way man, and if you haven’t checked out the video, readers…go do so on YouTube!

Thanks again. There were actually 3 females that inspired the song. Each verse is about a different girl I dated when I was younger.

I was looking on your Myspace page and seen that you were coming out with a clothing line. Where do you get inspiration for your fashion designs? I heard you say that you did graff (graffiti); do some of your designs come from this? What’s the name of the fashion line?

Well I used to really want to have my own clothing line, but I don’t really think about it as much anymore. I do have my shirts and hoodies that I push to promote my name, but that’s pretty much it for now. Yeah I still do graff (in my black book) here and there and I definitely use some my graff skilsl in some of my designs. I had a few different names I threw around back in the day, but nothing official right now.

If you could do a collaboration with any bands, artists, producers, or composers (dead or alive), who would they be with?

Wow, we could be here all day with that one.

OK, well for those still with us:

Amy Winehouse, Common, De La Soul, Dr. Dre, Dungeon Family, Elzhi, Erykah Badu, Guilty Simpson, Jill Scott, Kanye, Lord Have Mercy, Lupe, Mint Condition, Neptunes, Pharoah Monch, Portishead, Radiohead, Sean Price, Stevie Wonder, The Roots, and Timbaland (Just off the top of my head)

For those that have past:

J Dilla, John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Stan Getz (This is my short list because I could turn this into some marathon shit easily.)

I would like to thank you Substantial for taking the time to help me put this interview together so the hip-hop heads can get to know you better as a person and emcee. Are there any other things that you would like to say to the readers?

Thanks. And to the readers... Buy my album!

Substantial is a hella humble cat with extremely tremendous potential; go do yourself a favor and buy his latest LP entitled “Sacrifice.” You will not be disappointed. Make sure to check out Substantial on his Myspace page (http://www.myspace.com/substantial). Defining Substantial in a short synopsis: Substantial brings the raw aspects of a true emcee to life in a hip-hop landscape currently that is infused with cliché acts. Sub, thanks for the time.

Fat Tony

There’s a storm of potential brewing in the core of young Fat Tony’s mind. Did I emphasize young (he’s not even 20 years old yet); Fat Tony is from the same stomping grounds that UGK, Scarface, K-Otix, and DJ Screw made famous, Houston, Texas. Now with his debut solo installment, the “Love Life” EP released on March 4th, it is laced with a variation of eclectic songs talking on a wide-arrange of topics. Even through the EP-opener, “Faith (You Never Know),” to the songs like “She Glows” (produced by Tom Cruz of hip-hop group, Supreeme), every song on the Love Life EP stims to the central theme of loving and living life to the fullest.

Already with the huge opportunity of playing and performing at one of the biggest independent music festivals in the world, South by Southwest in Austin, Texas, Fat Tony will prove to the world that he is more than capable and ready to make a viable impact to music fans’ ears, minds, hearts, and souls.

1) Where did the name, “Fat Tony” come from? What’s the origin of the stage name, and how is the hip hop scene in Houston?

“Fat Tony” came from my adolescent hands while sitting in my 8th grade P.E. class during a class pizza party. They had us watching Scared Straight as a treat! Trying to turn out us young Houston hooligans into upstanding citizens. (Them niggas failed.) I tagged the name on a cup and it got noticed by some friends. The name stuck for my raps ever since then.

The Houston Hip Hop scene is dope. The scene is warm and flourishing with several new developments that seem promising. There are always venues awaiting you to book a show, and there's definitely an audience for a various styles of rap blasting off down here; whether it's classic Texas rap, Screw, radio shit, ultra underground rappity rap stuff, etc. Promotions for shows are looking bigger, glossier, and attracting nice crowds (thanks corporate sponsorships!).

2) As a young hip hop emcee breaking through the roots in Houston with an already somewhat mentionable name in your own city, what are your plans for this year?

My plans for the year are to rap wherever I can, whenever I can, for whatever audience is out there ready to listen. I wanna play hella shows across the land, hitting every college campus spot I can find. I've got my debut release, Love Life, poppin off as a free download right now from my Myspace page. I'm working on songs with my friend D ee R ai L for our duo, I and I. Working on a full-length Fat Tony album to follow up my EP too.

3. What drew you to hip hop? Are there any other genres of music that have helped you as a musician?

I was drawn to Hip Hop because I'm a young man born in 1988 and it’s a culture I grew up in since day one. I was always aware, open, and intrigued by rap. There were always a ton of records in my house, so I got into a lot of other music genres before I was a huge rap fan. My grandma listens to a lot of country, blues, and gospel. My mom likes a lot of classical, jazz, blues, and rock 'n' roll, And my dad jams lots of country and reggae music. I started getting big into Hip Hop around age 9; Thats when the radio and MTV were drawing me in heavily.

I get influenced by a lot of different genres, but besides Hip Hop I'd say punk rock is my biggest inspiration. I always did my research with music and got intrigued by D.I.Y. Cultures coming from underground rock 'n' roll and hardcore scenes. Listening to young bands who promoted, pressed, and handled all their material by hand gave me the motivation to get my stuff on the road.

4. How would you describe your cadence during over your songs? Do you feel that there is any other up and coming artists (such as yourself) from your area that the readers should be keeping a potential ear and set of eyes out for?

I'd describe my cadence as DOPE. Something that'll draw you in from a distant listen. Appealing to fans of good music across a variety of backgrounds. My music is for everyone. Out of this Houston area, I'd advise anybody with tastes to keep ears open & alert for D ee R ai L, Nosaprise, Tha Fucking Transmissions, iLL Faded Productions, and The Television Skies. [They are] all good artists and bands that I can co-sign all day long.

5. Who were some of the singers, hip hop artists, and bands that helped mold the artist, Fat Tony?

Too many! I go through periods of getting hella inspiration from different styles and eras in music. The biggest artists to influence me have always been Prince, Outkast, UGK, J Dilla, A Tribe Called Quest, The Smiths, Bad Brains, The Ramones, My Bloody Valentine, and DJ Screw. All the rap greats have inspired me of course, especially Jay-Z, Nas, 2Pac, E-40, De La Soul, Slick Rick, Big Daddy Kane, Mos Def, etc.

6. So I hear that you are set for your first solo release of an EP entitled “The Love Life EP.” What can music fans of all walks expect from hearing this musical installment of yours?

Good ass American rap music for young peoples worldwide. Nothing but good beats, dope rappin'. Something enjoyable to play when ridin' with your dudes or entertaining a lady friend. It fits any setting except a Klan rally or Republican convention. Fat Tony doesn't fuck with those types.

7. Are their any accolades that you have received so far even before releasing your first album?

I've been voted dopest young rap nigga alive by humans able to hear. They just haven't mailed me my trophy yet. I've been given a lot of good opportunities over the years. All because of blessings and my own hard work. I've been performing, making music, booking & promoting shows for a few years now. I definitely believe in hard work paying off.

8. The South by Southwest Festival in Austin, Texas is one of the biggest independent music festivals in the U.S. and I was told that you would be performing on stage for it. Do you feel any pressure at all?

I feel pressure to get my name out in a sea of other rappers trying to do the same! It's too many people trying to get in this now that it can make things oversaturated. The crabs in a barrell approach is never a good look. I'm confident that I'll stand out and reach the people that need to hear me though. I'll be performing with my partner D ee R ai L and DJ Klinch. We've got a great show for anyone that catches one of our performances.

9. What more can the readers expect from Fat Tony? Are their any other projects that are in the works with you right now?

Readers can expect more good music because I've always been known for doing a million projects/bands/groups at once and I don't think that's slowing down any time soon. An I and I album is coming and a Fat Tony full-length album is coming. I'd rather let the records speak for themselves rather than hype them up. Stay tuned to my Myspace and Facebook domains to always see whats good with me!

10.If you could do a song with any musical artist(s) (dead or alive), who would it be with?

I've love to do music with a bunch of people. Production wise, I'd love to do tracks with J Dilla, Pimp C, Q-Tip, Three 6 Mafia, Timbaland and The Neptunes. They've all produced many of my favorite songs ever. Sa-Ra have some really nice stuff too. I've got a crush on cute ass Amerie and love her “Touch” album. I'd get in the studio with her in a hot minute. Get on some “I'ma rap really tight, you just kill these hooks!” type tracks. I'd do music with Outkast because they are the very best, period. And if I could get a guest rapper on some shit of mine in the near future it'd be E-40! It could be a song about nothing, I don't care! Hella gifted with the voice he has. I'd like to get down with some of these new era rap dudes that I hear spittin' really hard like Supreeme, Blu, or Pacific Division. I want us all to feel like we're part of a new age in rap music.

This young guy with an extreme amount of talent with a genuine cadence and dope live show set is ready to set the microphone blaze along with music fans’ ears and minds as well. I had a great time interviewing Fat Tony, and would like to say thanks for the interview. Be sure to download his debut release, the Love Life EP for FREE!

Click the link below to download the "Love Life" EP for FREE:

http://www.zshare.net/download/8444653db47ce0/

Somobe

Las Vegas has been a city known to sprout up lavish casinos from the dry desert terrain like wild flowers growing in an oasis. But amongst the dry desert of Vegas, there is a musical oasis of a hip hop group known as Somobe with an impressive first album entitled, “The Great Communication” that opened a lot of hip hop heads eyes. Following the same distinctive parallels of the legendary Pete Rock and CL Smooth and Gangstarr, Somobe has formulated a sound all to their own comprised by a producer/DJ and an emcee. Let’s get to know masterminds behind the group, Somobe:



1)So guys, what is the meaning behind the name, “Somobe?” Is there a specific reason why you guys choose the name over any other? What are your names for those of the readers whom are now being introduced to you?

Bob J:
The term “Moby” meant cool back in the swing era. So we took that changed the “Y” to an “E,” added the “So” to make Somobe, meaning “So cool.” At the time, we were sort of struggling to come up with a new name once we discovered our original name had already been taken. One day, Jon just came up with Somobe and we just ran with it. I’m Bob J; I produce and play bass during live shows.

Jon: I’m Jon; I’m the emcee/producer


2)As for a little background on you guys, how did you two meet? Were you neighborhood friends growing up, or were you acquainted in college?

Bob J:
We’ve got that whole classic story thing going on. We met in school in the marching band; Jon played sax and played trumpet. One day after school, he and a drummer were jamming together, [and] I had just recently picked up bass and I joined in on the session. We started writing original songs and it just sort of took off from there. It’s hard to believe that that was 9 years ago, I guess we’ve been doing it longer than it feels.

3)Being a hip-hop group from Las Vegas, Nevada, do you feel that the music scene there is doing well? Who are some of the artists from Las Vegas that our readers should be looking out for?

Bob J:
Las Vegas has always been an indie rock town. There’s plenty of rock acts out here, most notably the Killers and Panic at the Disco. But as for hip-hop, we’ve sort of stayed under the radar, but it’s definitely bubbling up. The Chapter has always been the standard out here for good hip-hop, but also check out Isaac Sawyer and Artson.

4)I was very impressed when I heard the album, “The Great Communication” on a lyrical and production level? Who are some of your musical influences that help shape and mold Somobe (lyrically and production-wise)?
Jon:
For me, production-wise I’d say J-Dilla is an influence. At first, I didn’t realize how much of an influence he was, but now in retrospect, he had a major influence on my production style. [Also,] DJ Premier. Lyrically there are a lot of different guys that influence me. [Such as] Royce Da 5’9, Elzhi, MF Doom, Pharoahe Monch, Jay-Z. [There's] tons of different dudes.

Bob J:
As for me, I’ve always kind of looked up to the Neptunes and how they’ve progressed yet still maintained their sound. It’s like you know when you hear a Neptunes track but at the same time I’m like “Wow. That’s the Neptunes?”

5) At the end of the song, “Where I’m Supposed To Be” who were those individuals that were talking about why hip-hop? What made you guys come with this idea to add them to your album?

Bob J:
Those were some fans we reached out to to add a more personal down-to-earth element to the album. Because at the end of the day, art is determined by the audience and we wanted to give them a voice too.

5)Out of the 12 songs that were installed on “The Great Communication,” what were you guys’ favorites?

Jon:
I think Long Days is one of my [favorites] on the album. That song has about a billion metaphors and symbols in it that 99% of the people who hear it won’t ever catch. It took me about 4 months to write that song.

Bob J:
Personally, I like the “Clap On” for its energy and every time I hear “Stateline,” I kind of smile to myself and bask in our glory. Ha-ha. Just kidding.

6) Are there any songs on “The Great Communication” that were based on actual events that occurred or people that you actually knew?

Jon:
“Stateline” is based on a murder/rape case that happened at the state line between Vegas and California. It is written pretty much detail for detail from the police reports, so if you read the reports and then read the lyrics, you’ll really appreciate that track. Google “Sherrice Iverson”. I didn’t want the song to be disrespectful to the victim or her family. It’s written in a way that documents the events, with the details that were missing from the police reports filled in with fictional elements. Oddly, it’s the most upbeat song on the album, yet it has the darkest subject matter. I liked that contrast.

7)What can hip-hop heads look forward to from Somobe in the next few months to a year? Are there any side projects that either one of you are working on right now?

Jon:
We’re producing a few projects for some other artist. There’s a soul/R&B project in the works with an artist named Melinda Valenzuela. We’re producing and co-writing that one. She’s the girl singing on “If I Can’t” on our album; she’s extremely talented. There are a lot of other things in the works with a few better known artists as well. We’re busy!

8)If you could be anywhere on Earth right now, where would you be? (Answer individually)

Jon – There’s no place like home.

Bob J:
I’d love to visit the Philippines again and see my family; I love it out there.

9)If you could collaborate with any musical artist(s) or band (dead or alive), who would it be with?

Jon – Marvin Gaye. Man that would be dope!

Bob J:
Wow. Hmm. James Brown and Prince or any funk band from the 70’s. Rage Against the Machine would be crazy!!!

Somobe’s first album, “The Great Communication” is an eclectic balance of songs that leave the listener in euphoria; the complete mix of production and lyricism blended together to the delight of the listener. Much to the musical delight to the listener by the end of “The Great Communication, Bob J and Jon of Somobe put the corresponding elements of DJ/producer and emcee on a great plain like two perfect pieces to a jig-saw puzzle. Thanks for the interview, guys!

Debut EP "The Love Life" by Fat Tony

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Fat Tony's Love Life Available Now!
Entire EP & Individual Tracks Available as *FREE DOWNLOAD*

www.zshare.net/download/8444653db47ce0/
[copy + paste the link into your address bar]




1. Faith (You Never Know)
2. Stand High ft. Tom Cruz (of Supreeme)
3. Love Life
4. She Glows ft. Smash Bro + Tom Cruz (of Supreeme)
5. Much Accomplished ft. Smash Bro
6. Goodbye (Outro ft. Errbody, nigga!)


Released by Same Struggle Ent.
http://www.myspace.com/samestruggle

Who is Fat Tony?

I have linked up with this cat named Fat Tony out of Houston, Texas that is hella young but still has the work ethic of a man well into his mid-twenties. I listen to a wide array of music (hip hop especially) and for me to say that I'm going to help manage someone they must be hella good. The potential level of this kid is hella high and I expect him to do hella well.


Check out the new song added to Fat Tony's page....
"Love Life"


Click the picture to add Fat Tony!!!



Upcoming Shows

Oct 31 2007 9:00P
21+ - Pi Lounge and Bar ::: Halloween Show w/ Domino (iLL Faded Productions) Houston, Texas

Nov 2 2007 6:30P
University of St. Thomas w/ Fat Tony, Dee Rail, The Low Ends, The Rudyments, and more. Houston, Texas

Dec 1 2007 12:00P
Free Show - Contemporary Arts Museum houston, Texas

Dec 13 2007 7:00P
Mojo Risin' Coffee House w/ World Wide Web Houston, Texas