Rhapsody seems to have it together when it comes to showcasing music. They've even got commercials dontchaknow. Partake.
WALE
Uptown Roamers needs to be a bonus track on Wale's album. He makes a GREAT point in regards to the "360" deal.
DANJA
Keri Hilson album needs to come YESTERDAY.
Showing posts with label Music. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Music. Show all posts
5.08.2008
Music: Wale + Danja Interviews
4.24.2008
Peanut Butter Wolf Interview
Stone Throw owner/DJ/Producer, Peanut Butter Wolf, gave me the privelage of interviewing him
on The Mission Radio Show this past Monday. During this brief 17 minute interview we got a little Stones Throw history, The story behind the 'Peanut Butter Wolf' and how Charizma and Peanut Butter Wolf were suppose to be on Sister Act 2. The entire interview is available for stream below so click play and enjoy. Also sign up for my podcast to here past interviews. Just Click Here and your computer will take care of the rest.
4.14.2008
Say hello to Teddy Ruck-Spin and Friends!!!
DJ Teddy Ruck-Spin put together a birthday bash for him, himself and him. If you didn't attend yourself, here are some of the highlights. ROLL 'EM!!!!
Gist aka The Essence performs "Young, Gifted & Black" with J.A.M.E.S. WATTS at "Teddy Ruck-Spin and Friends Birthday Celebration." 
The show featured sets from Invincible, Angela Davis, and DJ Graffiti. Also, world-famous clothing store Motivation gave out a $25 gift certificate to the best dressed audience member. No pets were harmed in the making of this video.
4.13.2008
MUSIC: MIX DROP!!!! Black Chiney/DJ Lissa Monét/ DJ Private Ryan/Walshy Fire
As a collector of music and a fan of these deejays, I'm going to hook it up with the ENTIRE Black Chiney / DJ Lissa Monét mix series' (Black Chiney & Fresh Out The Box respectively).
(Black Chiney 1 - Enter the Dragon)
(Black Chiney 2 - The Return of the Dragon)
(Black Chiney 3 - The Revenge of the Dragon)
(Black Chiney 4 - The Last Dragon)
(Black Chiney - Cd Killer Vol. 5)
(Black Chiney 6 - Mixology)
(Black Chiney 7 - Black a Chino)
(Black Chiney 8)
(Black Chiney 8.5 - Hurricane Aftermath)
(The Black Chiney Show - Black Chiney Vol. 8.9)
(Black Chiney Present Supa Dups Unplugged)
(Black Chiney and Tony Matterhorn)
-------------------------------------------------
fresh out the box_001
fresh out the box_002
fresh out the box_003
fresh out the box_004
fresh out the box_005
fresh out the box_006
fresh out the box_007
fresh out the box_008
fresh out the box_009
fresh out the box_010
fresh out the box_011
fresh out the box_012
*side note: if someone can hook up lovestoned vol: 001 let me know ASAP!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
BONUS: Miami FCSA Conference party live @ Club Element. The best party I've ever had the good fortune of attending.
Enjoy!!!!!!!!!!!
Segment 1 Selecta AJ & Private Ryan Early Warm
Segment 2 Prodigy Movements
Segment 3 Private Ryan & Giselle D Wassi One
Segment 4 Walshy Fire of Black Chiney
Segment 5 Private Ryan & Walshy Fire In the Rain (the best part of the party)
I'll let you bask in the afterglow of all this music.
3.27.2008
If you're in Miami in April...
FIU students release Album for Class Project!
Florida International University's Business of Music class is acting as a mock record label to create a compilation album entitled "All Rights Reserved." All Rights Reserved will include various styles of genres, from rock to Hip Hop to soft ballads and cover songs; all chosen by FIU Music Business students in Professor Oswaldo Rossi's class.
The project brings awareness to the "indie" local music scene, whilst serving as hands-on experience for the students involved, to fully understand the processes involved in releasing an album to the marketplace. "All Rights Reserved" will be a non commercial release, endorsed by many of today's community supporters such as Rock The Vote and Epiphone/Gibson.
Professor Rossi brings a fresh business perspective to FIU students entering the music industry. As acting director for the legal and business affairs division for EMI Televisa Music, Rossi brings real world applications to the classroom helping students understand the day-to-day operations of a successful record company.
"While I was putting together my syllabus, I asked myself, 'what kind of approach would I appreciate if I were a student longing to work in the music industry?' I figured this would give the students real insight on what goes behind producing, marketing and promoting an album," Rossi said.
The purpose of the album is to take the skills learned in the classroom and directly apply them to their work. The students are responsible for selecting the songs to be put on the album, securing licenses, designing the cover, choosing a title, allocating funds, and marketing their product.
"All Rights Reserved" is set to be released April 11, this Red Carpet event will be held in its honor at Flavour Nightclub in Coconut Grove beginning at 9pm. The Album release party will host live musical performances by artists featured on the album. The event is free and open to the public, must be eighteen years or over.
-FIU-
Media Contact:
Professor Oswaldo Rossi, (305) 978-3674, Oswaldo.Rossi@emicap.com
3.25.2008
Skyzoo Interview On the Mission Radio Show
Skyzoo has built quite a name for himself.
A full length 12 track album in 3 days, former contestant on 106th and Park's freestyle friday, and productions from hip hop greats, DJ Premier; 9th Wonder; Black Milk, are just a few notches on his belt. Being a huge Skyzoo fan I had to get him on the show so here's a brief interview with "The one and only S-K-Y-Z-O-O"
Since Imeem seems to have a 30 second limitation if you're not a memeber CLICK HERE to listen to the full interview.
3.24.2008
Q+A with Dot Da Genius
In true PxP style, we had to sit down with up and coming producer Dot Da Genius. Showcasing fresh talent and watching them grow into future hitmakers and industry movers is part of what being Paid & Popular is about. Watch and learn.
L-R: Dot Da Genius, Kid Cudi
1. Out of everything you could've been doing, why choose a crowded field like music production?
I love music, and my dad loves music just as much. He always wanted to play an instrument but didn't have the opportunity to, so he just made me and my siblings go to music school. I didn't really get into making my own music until freshman year in engineering school. My roommate actually produced techno music and he gave me the cracked version of fruity loops. Since then it's just really become an obsession.
2. Breakdown your current production setup.
I have the Korg Triton LE workstation, Yamaha motif, MV 8000 and the Novation synthesizer. I sometimes use fruity loops and reason too. I also have various virtual synthesizers.
3. How did you meet Kid Cudi?
We were introduced to each other through a mutual friend. He came to my studio and we worked on a couple of joints and the chemistry was crazy. We've been working on music ever since.
4. "Day & Night" is picking up steam single-wise yet it doesn't sound like the usual NYC mixtape track or southern club banger. Why go for a "stoner" feel instead of going straight pop?
Whenever me and Cudi get in the studio we try to make our own sound. Cudi especially is conscience of the music he makes, he tries not to listen to what's current so his ideas are all his. He came to me with the idea of the track and I just put the beat together.
5. Sampling in 2008. Good move or bad idea?
I do both, but I really try and chop the sample up so it isn't really recognizable. The majority of my beats are original though. I would say making original beats is a lot more rewarding and it also shows more creativity. I don't knock any producer that samples though; sometimes the only way to get a certain feel to a track is to use a sample.
6. Getting back to Kid Cudi, how does Fool's Gold and G.O.O.D. Music play a role in both his and your careers?
Fools Gold is the label ran by A-Trak who is Kanye's DJ. It just so happens that Cudi's manager is Plain Pat, who is Kanye's A&R. So there definitely is a G.O.O.D. Music affiliation. The affiliation definitely helps Cudi and Pat having the industry affiliations he has gives me the heads up on possible album placements.
7. As long as we're talking about careers, what's the next move for Dot Da Genius? Are we only going to hear your work on Kid Cudi songs or can we expect Mariah Cary duets and co-production duties with Akon featuring T-Pain?
Well I'm handling a major portion of production responsibilities on Cudi's album, but I'm also getting my music heard by the right people who have taken interest. So definitely expect major placements this year.
8. Take us through the beatmaking process Dot-style.
I would definitely say I'm more melody based then percussion, but that changes depending on how I feel. Usually I like to come up with a solid melody or an interesting sound and build my drums around it. If I sample, I start with the sample and build around it. I like to make a track so that if I remove the sample the track still feels complete, so I tend to do a lot of layering on my sampled tracks.
9. What advice would you give to someone who wanted to be "Paid and Popular" like you?
When I first started making music seriously I thought it would be an overnight success story. That is the story for some producers but to be a complete producer it takes years of working and perfecting your craft. I've been doing this for about 5 years and things are now just starting to pick up. Don't feel the rush to be successful right away. Take your time and make sure you really understand the art of making music and making a solid record. Most importantly keep yourself surrounded by people that believe in you and that have positive energy. There are so many people that destroy people's dreams with their words. Get those kind of people out of your circle cause that can only bring you down.
10. Plugs, shout-outs?
Shouts to my whole Headbanga Family, JR, Lex, Eva. Cudi's EP dropped on itunes on Feb 5th so go out and support it, look out for the album which should be dropping this year fourth quarter. Also stop by myspace.com/headbangamuzikgroup any artists that are tryna get their career moving holla at me!
3.18.2008
BAROMETER MIX: MARCH
"The Barometer Mix is a monthly mix series comprised of the newest house, electro, and club tracks and remixes from around the world, seamlessly blended, edited, and remixed exclusively for P&P by our in house dj, Savile."
Savile returns! Another month, another half an hour of the latest club goodies. Enjoy.
P&P Barometer Mix: March
http://www.zshare.net/audio/913374327f3a9d/
(tracklist after the jump)
And if you missed last month's mix;
P&P Barometer Mix: December
http://www.zshare.net/audio/5992512aaf0ea6/
http://www.zshare.net/audio/913374327f3a9d/
(tracklist after the jump)
And if you missed last month's mix;
P&P Barometer Mix: December
http://www.zshare.net/audio/5992512aaf0ea6/
3.10.2008
Mixtape Menace: Black Chiney 8.9
Riddle me this: what do you get when you mix blazin' hip-hop beats with the ruggedest vocals out of Jamaican dancehall?
If you answered either "Black Chiney mixes" or "I don't know but it sounds reeeeeeal niiiice" you'd be correct. Mixed by Willy Chin, the deejay/production unit comes out the gate full blast throughout the 80 track compilation. Beat jacks and re-fixes of hits like Shawty Lo's "Dey Know" and Kanye West's (I'm STILL trying to figure the video out!) "Flashing Lights" show how and more importantly WHY Black Chiney is among the greats in dancehall selection. Even the (some might say crass) skits contribute to the madness providing about 30 seconds of rest while bringing in the next part of the mix. DJ's and DVS huggers take note, THIS is a blueprint as to how a mixtape should sound.
Pros: "Very, VERY well mixed." - Old, Rich White People
"Everything exclusive!!!" - Your Local Mixtape DJ That Screams Over Every Song
Cons: "Whey de BLOODCLAT TRACKLISTIN?!?!?!?!!" - An Angry Reggae Fan
Catch this episode of the Black Chiney Show here.
*If this link should NOT work for any reason, email me @ ant.live@paidandpopular.com for a re-up.
3.02.2008
FEEDBACK LOOP: Maybach Music
One of the better tracks I've heard thus far off of Rick Ross' sophomore album "Trilla", this is called "Maybach Music" featuring a Brooklyn legend known as...
Jay-Z. Everything about this song screams "welcome to the goodlife". The production by J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League is top-notch with a laidback feel coming from the keys and congos. Lyrically, Ross swings for the fences and hits while former President Carter gets some fire back in his stomach with witty one-liners like "my closet is like 2 stories" that really give the track's title credibility.
The goodlife can be heard here
Enjoy!
2.27.2008
HIP HOPe Benefit Concert
HIP HOPe Benefit Concert
Featuring the The Five Elements of Hip Hop
Musical Performance:
* Kidz in the Hall,
* Butta Verses,
* Sevenstar,
* ARTOFFICIAL,
* Laguardia
* Major League
Disk Jockeys:
DJ MainEvent and Gravy Master
Live Graffiti: Crave & Chrome
Breaking: Street Stylez Ent.
Knowledge: Take Back the Land Project & New Orleans Project
***Donations Highly Appreciated***
Location:
FIU South Campus 11200 S.W. 8th Street Miami, Florida 33199
Graham Center Ballrooms
@ 7:00 PM
Contact: Voicefiu@yahoo.com
ALL DONATIONS WILL BE BENEFITING THE HOMELESS IN MIAMI DADE IMPACTED BY THE HOUSING CRISIS AND KATRINA VICTIMS
Projects: Take Back the Land
2.24.2008
VIDEO: Count of Monte Cristal feat. Kid Sister - Beeper
Chi-town up and comer Kid Sister (with an assist from her brother J2K of Flosstradamus) teams up with DJ's Herve and Sinden for the first single off of their "Count of Monte Cristal" EP.
I remember this song back when they were looping up Pharrell's vocals to guide it. The re-make is more club-friendly thanks to KS's rapping and the video itself keeps a grimey yet light-hearted feel throughout.
Pros: Kid Sister's raps > looping up 3 Pharrell bars for 3 minutes
Choreography was on point.
I wouldn't mind having the song as a ringtone.
Cons: On the fence when it comes to J2K's chorus.
The video isn't that clean, don't know whether that's a UK thing or a budget thing.
2.14.2008
It's Valentine's Day and We Love Music (Mini-Mixtape Series)
What do you get when a blog full of DJ's realize it's Valentine's Day but also realize we don't have enough time to make a full mixtape????
You get the first two volumes of our Mini-Mixtape Series. DJ Louie Arson and LE Beats get down on the 1's and 2's to bring you a mix of some of their favorite tracks dealing with what we call "love" The first set is by Louie Arson featuring a more personal relationship feel something for you and that significant person to listen to togther the tracklisting and the links are below.
DJ Louie Arson AKA DJ Matches Presents: Heartburn Vol. 1
1.Lauryn Hill - Ex Factor
2.Bob Marley & Lauryn Hill - Turn The Lights Down
3.Common & Mary J Blige - Come Close
4.Guru & Erykah Badu - Plenty
5.Dwele & Kanye - Hold On REMIX
6.A Tribe Called Quest - Bonita AppleBUM
7.T.I & Pharell - FreakThough
8.Q-tip - Ride
9.Common, Pharell, Erykah Badu, Q-Tip - Come Close REMIX
10.Common - The Light
11.Common - I Want You
If you have no time to stream the full 22 minutes have no fear a download link is here.
Download Heartburn Vol. 1
Now for you guys who don't have a significant other to share that mix with we have something for you guys. LE Beats unfinished When Did You Fall In Love With Hip Hop Vol. 1 Mixtape features some of our favorite hip hop love songs the rest of the mixtape will be posted next week but a imeem preview is featured below tracklisting is also below.
1. Intro - When Did You Fall In Love With Hip Hop
2. Erykah Badu - Love of My Life (Ode to Hip Hop)
3. The Roots - You Got Me
4. Ghostface Killah - Love Session
5. The Pharcyde - Passin Me By
6. Pete Rock & CL Smooth - I Got A Love
Download When Did You Fall In Love With Hip Hop Vol. 1
Hope you all enjoy these mix's that we put together and feel free to comment.
Happy Valentines Day,
LE Beats
AKA
Mr. Supra Dance
AKA
Pikaso
AKA
The Resident Hater
2.12.2008
Random Hot Sh!t Vol. 3
It's that time again! Random heat for music, fashion and the world featuring one half of the Cool Kids, Adidas new ventures, Art Thieves and... a new headquarters?!?!?!!
Mikey Rocks of the Cool Kids talks inspiration.
Very surprised that he'd put Public Enemy up there though that would explain the new song on the Cool Kids myspace page called "Action Figures".
Adidas cookgear?!?!?!?
And in the "making a resurgence" category: Art Thieves. Because tech crimes and wars are sooooo 2007.
Last but not least, a preview of the Paid & Popular HQ.
For more interviews, updates and features click + subscribe to the Paid & Popular RSS feed.
2.06.2008
Q+A with Super-Engineer Exit
We recently caught up with Akon's go-to engineer and ATLien Exit for a glimpse into the life of an engineer, working with legends and the benefits of having... no record labels in Atlanta?!?!
1. Let us know who you are, where you're from, accomplishments, etc.
Me? I'm Exit. That's short for DJ Exit. I used to spin, and that's how I got down. Everyone left the floor when I spun. Real talk! Now I'm a freelance engineer with Milk Money Consulting based in Atlanta. I've worked on a lot of big projects, so as far as accomplishments, you can say I've been around the block and done it all.
2. Coming up, what made you want to pursue engineering rather than more publicized roles (ie: vocals, production, staying with the dj thing)?
Engineering was really my calling. I'm a nerd at heart, and a very logical thinker, so the problem solving and methods revolving engineering were more attractive to me. I'm a behind the scenes person. I don't hop in videos, I don't get involved with hype. I'm about being involved with good music. I left DJing for engineering cuz DJing became too much of a hustle in a very saturated market. I was never really that happy doing it. Plus I was on the underground scene, and all the elite attitudes in that backpacker world dragged my positivity down. I fell into a strong camp at D.A.R.P. Studios (Dallas Austin Recording Projects) and never looked back.
3. What's the difference between coming up when you did as opposed to 2008 where everything is ProTools'ed and AutoTuned out?
When I began we were doing everything on two-inch twenty track tape. If you needed more than 24 tracks, we had to make 2 tape machines play together. I think there were more fundamentals put to work back then. These days people think they are engineers because they know something about Protools. I ain't mad at anyone for knowing a little something, but to call yourself an engineer you better be able to do some shit: solder cables, splice tape, repair computers, understand mic placement, understand signal flow.... But the other side of the coin is that in the engineering world you aren't supposed to follow the rules. If you break rules, you innovate. And a lot of the new guys do shit cuz they don't know the "right" way, but they end up teaching me stuff. So, it's an interesting time.
4. Polow Da Don has stated that there are no major labels in Atlanta yet all of hip-hop and r&b's superstars are coming from that area. What gives?
I have a funny take on this: Since there are no major labels based in Atlanta, we have less politicians and industry types roaming around. Because of that I think creativity isn't stifled. People aren't worried about Ron Fair or somebody coming into a session to wave their magic wand of hype and change vibes. Also, Atlanta is real ass place. People do what they do and don't really trip on other people. I think in LA and NYC the industry people are busy trying to keep up with eachother. I may be completely wrong, but I just know in ATL we all love eachother but at the same time could give a flying fuck what the next person is doing.
The other thing is that we had a strong influx of talent come in around 1995 (like me!!) that kind of set a new trend after Dallas and Jermaine's runs. And this new crop kind of opened up the field for everyone. You could get hot tracks, hot songs, from a variety of places, and everyone jumped on board.
5. Your myspace blogs are rather detailed, when's the book coming out?
Oh, you mean my blogs at myspace.com/exit1200? Yeah, I really put some time into them. As far as a book, it's in the works but I think I would like to get a couple more years of blogs in first then take like the 25 strongest and rework them a little. A lot of the blog stuff I don't say names in, cuz it's too close to my projects. But one day, I'll let it all out fasho.
6. Name your weapons of choice when going into the studio.
Red Bull. I think I need rehab for it. Actually, all I need is a good internet connection, Waves SSL 4000 and Renaissance plugins, VocAlign, Autotune, and the temperature at about 80 degrees or above. And no hot beats bein made in cold weather yo!!!
7. You've been rocking with the Konvict Musik crew (Akon, Kardinal Offishall) lately. How'd that come about?
I've known Akon for over 10 years now. We go waaaaaay back to the D.A.R.P. days. He always came around as a producer and worked on stuff. Around that time he was also on Elektra and trying to make "Operations of Nature" pop off. A couple years ago we did a few sessions together while he was starting the "Konvicted" album and he basically said I need to be in all of his sessions. Since then we've worked all over the US, London, Paris, Amsterdam, all over Canada, and a ton of other places. Let me say this about dude: he's one of the nicest and realest people you'll ever meet. If he wasn't, I wouldn't work with him as much because luckily I have a strong enough rep and mgmt team to keep me busy. But I enjoy working with the Dark Prince (a nickname given to him by his DJ) and and happy that we've done so much hot shit the last couple years.
8. Anyone you want to work with that you haven't already?
I worked with some major folks this year, but I definitely would like to work with Lionel Richie again. I would also like to do a session with Quincy Jones. I've worked on stuff that was for him, but I want to work directly with dude. Otherwise I'm just as happy doing an strong indy artist as I am Mary J Blige. As long as the check clears and the cash is green!
9. Grand Groove. Explain.
Until all my legal paperwork is done I can't talk about it... Sorry!!! Believe me I'll hit you back on that!
10. Any future projects we should look out for?
Actually, I would love to plug the Constellations project my boy Ben Allen is doing. He's the guy that recorded and mixed the first Gnarls Barkley. He's a super talented producer that works on a lot of rock and indy stuff, but some of his projects cross into a more eclectic vibe. Constellations is kinda like a Southern US version of the Gorillaz. I can't wait for it to come out. Also, look out for my boy Novel. He's a real talented dude. His album should be coming out soon. And of course I can't forget my man Kardinal Offishall!!! I'm really proud of dude's perseverance. His album is hot to me.
11. Your perfect breakfast?
Breakfast slows me down, but if I must, Focus Vitamin Water and a Greens+ bar.
12. What would you tell someone who wants to be @ your level of prestige or @ least "Paid and Popular"?
Stay out of the hype, surround yourself with positive people, and realize that smart work is always rewarded. It just might not come on the schedule you hope for.
For more interviews, updates and features click + subscribe to the Paid & Popular RSS feed.
2.05.2008
BAROMETER MIX: JANUARY/FEBRUARY
"The Barometer Mix is a monthly mix series comprised of the newest house, electro, and club tracks and remixes from around the world, seamlessly blended, edited, and remixed exclusively for P&P by our in house dj, Savile."
Apologies for the late posting, but we've been SUPERBUSY with some upcoming features. This month the Barometer Mix is coming from our DJ friend Louie Arson. Best of underground hip-hop from Wu-Tang, Saigon, and some other guests you're gonna have to hear to believe!
Set 1: Wu-Tang Style
Set 2: Return Of The Damaja
Set 3: A Little Scratching
Big ups to Louie, Deelah, LE Beats for the save, Push Play, E.T. and the 50K strong worldwide listenership! Tracklisting in the Comments section per usual.
1.31.2008
MOTIVATION-al Speaker
Paid and Popular linked up with the illest boutique in Ann Arbor, Motivation, for a Q & A for some insight on how a boutique is developed and run. Shoutouts to Mike, the co-owner, for taking time out for the interview!
Motivation Boutique // Premium Streetwear & Fashion
1203 S. University Avenue, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
(734) 769-2260
www.mtvtn.com
1) Why the location of Ann Arbor for the store?
Well, even though I'm originally from Pittsburgh, I've been here in Ann Arbor, Michigan since 1999 going to college and then grad school at the University of Michigan. When I was in college, there were never any stores in the area - and especially on campus - that I would like to shop at; I'd always end up getting my clothes online or back home in Pittsburgh. I knew there were others like me that didn’t dress in Abercrombie and U of M apparel everyday, so when we were thinking of the concept for the store, Ann Arbor just made sense. There's nothing like it here. From a business standpoint it's an almost perfect location --- we are right on campus and there's 40,000 college students living within a half mile radius of the store. It would be perfect if the students were here year-round!
2) How is Michigan's economy affecting your bottom line, if at all?
It's hard to say, only because we've only been open for 2 and a half months now, and those two and a half months fell during the holiday season. We've fortunately been doing better than we expected so far, but ask me that in a year and Ill have a better answer for you.
3) What was the process in making the Motivation mixtape & did you have any say in it?
I actually had no say in it, haha! DJ Benzi, who's from Michigan and loves the store, was the one who came up with the idea, and he hit Mick (Boogie) up and they got Fatman Scoop on board and made it all happen. And it turned out dope and everything I expected it would be! I've been working with Mick for 4 years or so now and learned to let the professionals do what they do best. I trust his musical/marketing expertise 100%, so I usually don’t give him too much input. My extent of working on this project was simply sending the graphic designer our logo for the back cover!
4) What's your inspiration behind the design of the boutique? We know its important to keep a fresh vibe by being creative with the blueprint.
Well the design was based on my personal style and ideas I guess. I designed all of it and just wanted real clean simple straight lines and a high-end modern look throughout. Everything is black and white for contrast with silver accents, and the wood floor and clothes pop against these colors. I also love hip-hop (I sold and promoted it in my previous business) and wanted to incorporate that into the atmosphere, so all we play as background music is dope-ass classic instrumentals. We also have some paintings being commissioned for the store that once they get done will add to that atmosphere. One thing that was also important was to have a layout that made sense and not have a crowded store, I really hate that when Im shopping! We didn’t have the huge budget as some of these stores in NYC or California but it still came out nice and like no other store in the area, that’s for sure.
5) What MOTIVATED you to want and do a joint venture with Mick in the form of a boutique? Why not something like, I don't know, real estate?
Haha, I don't know shit about real estate so that was out of the question! No, I'm a big supporter of doing something that you're passionate about and that you will be happy waking up and doing everyday. When I got my Master's degree, I got offered a job at Ernst & Young in accounting right out of school. But I didn’t accept it because I had this internet-based business popping off that sold rare hip-hop CDs, DVDs, and mixtapes. It really wasn't making much at the time but I thought if I had time to dedicate to it (most of my time was spent hitting the books), it could turn into something big. Plus, I'm not a very corporate person and couldn’t see myself crunching numbers in a suit and sucking up to my boss on the daily. My parents thought I was crazy. But I ended up putting my all into the business and it blew up. I sold it this past summer because CDs will be dead in a year or two and flipped some of the proceeds into Motivation.
But umm back to the question as to why a boutique, well me and Mick met through my old business and actually had another business together (and still do) where we partnered up to promote him as a Dj. We would always bounce business ideas back and forth and we both had a love for the clothing and culture in general (especially sneakers) so one day we got to talking about opening a boutique, came up with the concept, and when I sold my other business it was the right time to make it happen. Me and my girl Indra handle all of the day-to-day operations and management while Mick focuses on the marketing (he has a Masters in Marketing) and promoting it on a national level, because we aren’t trying to have Motivation known just locally!
6) How did you get so many accounts with such dope clothing companies & why'd you pick these specifically? Any chance of you guys getting an Obey or 12 grain account?
Right from the start, I singled out brands that a) I like and wear myself and b) I feel are at the top of the industry or creatively can be there. I'm a big believer of doing things the right way from the start, so I went after the big names - the Alifes, the Crooks & Castles, the Hellz Bellz', etc. - right from the beginning. There's a million and one streetwear brands out there and instead of picking up a lot of emerging brands that will readily give anyone an account, I went right after the big boys that are choosy with who they let sell their clothes. These brands only want to be in the top boutiques across the world so that they can keep their product exclusive. I set up meetings and presented our business plan and concept to all of the brands and they loved it; we ended up getting most of them on board before we had even started constructing our buildout for the store!
As far as Obey, I actually had them down in our business plan as a brand we wanted to pick up, but then I saw their booth at one of the trade shows and it was HUGE - they had the biggest selection of clothes out of all the streetwear brands at the show I'd say, so I decided to hit them up once we were more established and had a bigger budget haha. 12 Grain I'm not too familiar with, you have to put me up on them…
7) What's up with Mick's Thelonius brand?
I'm not even sure, you'll have to ask him about that, haha. It was supposed to be a collaboration between him and a dope designer we both know. It would be a good time to put it in motion though, now that we have the means to get it out there through Motivation.
8) Do you have a Nike (or any other sneaker) account in the works? Shoot for that tier 0!
We will have Alife footwear starting this Spring and also have a few other things in the works. No Nike yet though, we are really trying to focus on being known for having one of the best selections of clothing around and then we will move into other avenues like footwear!
9) Any plans on expanding the brand? Will we see something like Motivation car parts?
Haha, yeah we have the car parts coming out this Spring and then Motivation tires dropping this Fall! No umm…we have some things in the works but I really don’t want to say because there are a lot of copycats out there. I will say that you can expect more Motivation mixtapes. Also lookout for a crazy exclusive project between Mick & Lil Wayne, like on the level of the Dedication mixtapes…as long as Weezy can stay out of jail!
10) Predictions for 2008's fashion?
I think in general you can expect a continuation of what was started in 2007. A lot of streetwear companies are going towards more cleaner and subtle looks with a focus on the details. Crewneck sweatshirts will make an even bigger comeback as hoodies are being phased out. Also look for a lot more streetwear brands aimed at women to come to light. Hopefully we will see more creative brands coming out for the guys, it seems a lot of the new brands starting up keep using played out ideas that have been done 10 times over. Also hopefully in 2008 people will keep up the trend of wearing more fitted clothes…wearing your shirts two sizes too big is not what’s up…
11) How important for you was it to attain your Masters degree so quickly after finishing undergrad? I know it's hard for most to continue through 16 years of school only to tack 2 more on.
You know, when I was in my senior year of college I still didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do. There’s not so much that you can do with just an undergraduate degree in Economics now-a-days, so I was like what the hell, let’s go another two more years! It was important in the sense that the Master’s program really gave me a direction as to what I could do career wise (even though I didn’t end up being an accountant) and it gave me a really specific and detailed education in Accounting. Whereas when I got my undergraduate degree in Economics, I felt it was a lot more open ended and basic education; I felt it really didn’t prepare me for one specific job and I wasn’t really an expert in Economics. Or it could be that I partied too much as an undergrad, haha…
12) Do you feel it is necessary to attain a formal upper level education to become Paid and Popular...well, at least with regards to the paid part?
I wouldn’t say its necessary but I definitely think it’s helpful. If you go the normal route and get a job working for someone else, just by having a Master’s you’re going to get paid better starting off, that’s a given. You’ll also have a much better chance at finding a good job quickly because employers know you have that much more experience and education. If you go the other route and are going to be working for yourself, I don’t think it’s as helpful, but there’s definitely benefits. Yeah I might only use my accounting knowledge around tax season now, but what I picked up from my higher level Marketing and Entrepreneurship classes I use all the time. With my old business that translated into dollar signs and hopefully it will with Motivation.
13) What other business ventures do you have in the works?
Man, I have my hands full with Motivation and promoting Mick right now! I’m just really trying to focus on Motivation and putting my all into it to develop it into a successful business and brand. Maybe in a few years Ill have something else popping off, I definitely have some ideas I’d like to put into motion, but I’m taking things one step at a time …
14) Lastly, whats up with a discount??? Size L & 32 please!
Haha, I got you, I appreciate the love on the interview! For anyone looking to get some of our stuff, we do ship across the world, just hit up the blog on our website at www.mtvtn.com and you can see what we have new in stock and info on how to make an order with us. Also be sure to check out www.mickboogie.com, Peace!
Mick Boogie & DJ Benzi's "Motivation" Mixtape
1.30.2008
Only if all our days were this fun
As most of you know PxP is full of DJ's, Hip Hop heads, Sneaker Heads, etc etc... and we had a few frineds over on Grind Time Radio this past Saturday. On the 1's and 2's was non other that DJ Louie Arson A.K.A. DJ Matches, we had Q there, we also had King Jaffe Joe of the miami sneakerhead scene Deelah, and of course the regular PxP crew LE Beats, E.T., and of course the host of the show DJ Main Event. Needless to say it was a full house. Watch how we show you hypebeast how it's REALLY suppose to be done, talk about Ghostface's cameo on the Dewey Cox story, vinyl purchases, Push Play's obsession with Soulja Boy, and how to step your game up for the year 2008. Below is just my favorite video out of all six. The rest can be viewed at PxP's YouTube Channel , and if your not a subscriber now is the time to become one as we'll be throwing up videos religiously of our journey to the top, hope you guys enjoy.
Also on a sidebar be on the look out for the monthly barometer mix. This month we will have 3 sets by DJ Louie Arson from this past Saturday's Grind Time Radio show.
L.E. Beats
A.K.A.
Mr. Supra Dance
A.K.A.
Pikaso
A.K.A.
The Resident Hater
1.28.2008
Rest In Beats: Mos Def's J Dilla Tribute
Paying tribute at Hill
by Teddy Ruck-Spin
When a show with the title "Mos Def Big Band: A Tribute to Detroit's J Dilla" comes to town, it's hard not to have high expectations. Not only was one of the most talented rappers performing the work of one of hip hop's unsung heroes, but he was doing it on Martin Luther King Jr. Day as part of the University's Martin Luther King Jr. Symposium. While Mos's recent track record of rambling live shows and uneven studio albums may have made some concert-goers wary of the ambitious event, his impressive performance momentarily put to rest any thoughts of his waning rap career. Along with members of Robert Glasper & The Experiment, the veteran MC orchestrated a fitting tribute to the late producer James Yancey (a.k.a. Jay Dee, a.k.a. J Dilla). At the acoustically perfect Hill Auditorium, Mos delivered a series of extended covers and brand new Dilla-inspired cuts.
After opening with a quick warm-up rhyme, Mos began with a call and response chant that referenced albums from Dilla's discography and shouted out his various collaborators. The chant included the refrain "We keep it ghe-tto like a plastic cup / It's fantastic" - a blend of phrases from the intros of Slum Village's Fantastic, Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 and Dilla's Ruff Draft EP. Moments like this that hinted at Dilla's past work may have gone over the heads of much of the audience, whose attendance was more predicated on Mos's star power rather than the tribute itself. But aside from some mild crowd reactions, Mos and his band (dubbed "Watermelon" during the set) did their best to convey Dilla's spirit to an audience largely unfamiliar with his legacy.
Instead of running through Dilla's more popular works (such as Common's "The Light" or Q-Tip's "Breathe and Stop"), Mos focused on the Rhodes pianos and snapping drums of Dilla's trademark early work. He paid brief tribute to Dilla's hardcore compositions like "The $" and "E=MC2", but left out notable bangers like "Raise it Up" and "Fuck the Police." Various omissions aside, the more laidback selections were appropriate for a reflection on the life of Dilla, who passed away in 2006 due to complications from Lupus.
(video courtesy of rybarker12)
Backed by a soul-jazz band that has worked with Q-Tip and Common, Mos created a wealth of exclusive material that referenced hip-hop and R&B songs. Highlights included a rhyme about the first time Mos heard Slum Village's debut Fantastic, Vol. 1 in 1996 and Mos spitting Rakim's verse from "Paid in Full" over Dilla's rumbling "The $." Perhaps the most transformative segment was Mos's "D Mix" - a blend of "Ms. Fat Booty," the Pharcyde's "Passin' Me By" and Floetry's "Say Yes" over an instrumental rendition of Slum Village's "Fantastic."
One of the most poignant moments was Mos's adaptation of Robert Glasper's "Paint the World." Over a groove reminiscent of the live instrumentation on Dilla's Welcome 2 Detroit, Mos encouraged the crowd to fulfill their own artistic visions. While Dilla's MC'ing persona was preoccupied with musings about his material assets and beat-making prowess, his peers and fans alike are quick to recognize the spirituality inherent in his sublime creations. As the band channeled the warm textures of Dilla's work, Mos emphasized the lasting contributions of his peer and collaborator. In a spoken interlude, he described Dilla's music as "raw and beautiful," and reminded the audience that "when you do beautiful things, you live forever."
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Professor Mos Def: Class is now in session
Before his first encore, Mos Def took the stage with Lester Monts, the University's senior vice provost for academic affairs. After giving some background on "one that we feel is the largest (MLK Symposium) in the country," Monts presented Mos with a "King, Chavez, Parks Visiting Professor Award" and instructed the crowd to call the MC "Professor Mos Def."
http://media.www.michigandaily.com/media/storage/paper851/news/2008/01/23/Music/Paying.Tribute.At.Hill-3163162.shtml"
1.22.2008
You dropped the class, we wrote the books...
Re-make of the Kanye West hit "Flashing Lights" minus the Dwele and Kanye West by Colin Munroe. A solid effort in my opinion, from the audio *Missy impression "reeeeemiiiiix!!!!"* to the visual. Rap cover bands in 2008? I don't doubt it. You can contact Mr. Munroe on myspace or website to show your love, hate, apathy, or any other feelings towards his song.
Side note: Someone let me know how to emote bloodlust and hunger! And big happy birthdays to El Ranchero and E.T. for 2008 is going to be a great year gentlemen!