NYS Music 202​2

Tag: hip hop

  • Method Man Explains Absence From Wu Tang Clan’s New York State of Mind Tour

    Method Man responded to his conspicuous absence from Wu Tang Clan, Nas and Busta Rhymes’, NY State of Mind Tour. The legendary acts announced back in April they’d be joining forces an end of summer tour. However, fans who attended the tour’s first few shows were disappointed to learn that Meth wouldn’t be joining the rest of the Clan on tour.

    The Power Book II: Ghost actor gave reply to unhappy fans in a video, going on to say:

    Embed from Getty Images

    I’ma clear this shit up once and for all, I’ma say this one last time. One of the nicest muthafuckas in the world, but I am not a pushover. I have sacrificed so much over the years to satisfy the fans, and I’m pretty sure that’s vice versa and that’s why I love y’all, that’s why I don’t hesitate to go all-out for y’all.

    The visibly frustrated Method Man specified that his issues were not with his real fans and “not the ones that’d jump in your DMs and curse you the fuck out all call you all kinds of bitches.” The Grammy-winner went on to explain his absence from the tour,

    I fucking love Wu-Tang, wish I could have been on that tour with them. The booking came at a bad time, I was already booked to do a movie.

    While still showing respect to his brothers, Meth emphasized his displeasure at the backlash he’s received from some fans. Noting that the show was billed irregardless of his presence.

    And you know, these things happen and dudes do have to feed their families. Albums don’t sell the way they used to, I’m pretty sure you guys know that. So in order to preserve my lifestyle and to feed my family, I had to have alternative means of doing that. And I’m glad to say at 50 years old, I have options. Not everybody can say that. Everyone cannot say that they have options.

    https://youtu.be/rnHDCO_SClk

    Always the clan’s most marketable member, Method Man has branched out to a successful acting career. The How High actor will star in Paramount+’s feature, On the Come Up, from director Sanaa Lathan. He serves as the narrator for DC Comics’ Milestone Generations and will also lend his voice to Disney Channel’s upcoming animated series, Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur. He currently stars in Power Book II: Ghost, for which he won consecutive NAACP Image Awards in 2021 and 2022.

    The NY State of Mind tour kicked off August 30 and includes a stop at the Prudential Center on September 13. The tour wraps up on Oct. 4 with a performance at Los Angeles’ historic Hollywood Bowl.

    Tickets for the NY State of Mind Tour are on sale via Live Nation or Citi Entertainment.

  • Vevo and Pusha T Present Live Performance Videos for ‘Dreaming of the Past’ and ‘Brambleton’

    Vevo, the world’s leading music video network, has announced Pusha T as the next artist in their Ctrl. series with performances of “Dreamin of the Past” and “Brambleton” from his critically-acclaimed album It’s Almost Dry. Pusha T has previously worked with Vevo for a “Vevo Presents” performance in 2011. In 2018 he gave Vevo an exclusive interview focusing on the making of his Grammy-nominated album called, “How The Purple Tape Shaped Daytona.”

    Pusha T gave a live video performance of his record “Brambleton”

    Vevo’s Ctrl series highlights the work of hard-hitting, cutting-edge musicians making an impact in today’s music scene – both emerging and established. These artists demand attention, and Vevo’s Ctrl shines a deserving spotlight. Pusha T’s performances follow sessions from Rick Ross, Common, Rapsody, Fat Joe, Jeezy, Jadakiss, Fabolous, A$AP Ferg and more.

    It’s Almost Dry arrives as the highly-anticipated follow up to 2018’s highly touted Daytona. In a recent interview with Charlamagne The God, Pusha explained, ”

    I had the best of both worlds in regards to production and in regards to two people that actually understand who I am and they like two different things from me that I feel are both really great…this body of work is untouchable because it doesn’t lean too heavy on either side…you get the whole spectrum. It’s my most well-rounded body of work.

    Sonically, this album was a change of pace for Pusha T. He experimented by combining his luxury rap style with contemporary melodies and flows, with features from Don Tolliver, Lil Uzi Vert and Kid Cudi. Nothwithstanding, It’s Almost Dry still provided some of what made Daytona such an excellent album. Records like “Dreaming of the Past” — where Pusha T blends his eccentric drug kingpin persona with real life anecdotes — are now a staple of his discography and the Kanye West assisted song is one of the highlights of the album. Whereas “Brambleton” sees Pusha T get a bit more personal, with stories of his days in Virginia and addressing figures from his past.

    We was out in Brambleton after Pooh got hit Club Entourage in that new drop six

    – Pusha T

    My brand is all about creating masterpieces,” Pusha recently told Complex.

    This is a legacy thing with me. This is all about being great. This is the realest real estate in hip-hop, and I’m the Martin Scorsese of it.

  • Beyonce Drops 7th Album ‘Renaissance’

    On Friday, July 29, Beyoncé dropped her seventh studio album, Renaissance, to the delight of her fans worldwide. The album is the first act of a trilogy project from the singer, who dedicated the record to her family, via Instagram.

    Beyonce album cover
    Renaissance Album Cover

    Renaissance, just as Beyoncé penned to fans, is surely an album of empowerment, exploration, and creativity full of hype songs to let loose to. The famous performer and mother wrote the album during the COVID-19 pandemic in the hope it would provide a safe space “to scream, release, [and] feel freedom.” With the 16 songs coming in at just over an hour, the new album does just that.

    The first track, “I’m That Girl,” opens a hint at the album, providing listeners with multiple overlays, repetitive chants, and Beyoncé’s familiar vocals and empowering lyrics. “Cozy,” brings an entirely sultry new beat, where Beyoncé passionately sings, “comfortable in my skin / cozy with who I am.”  Much of the album celebrates self-love and incorporates and honors so many different styles of dance music.

    The popstar unapologetically explores multiple genres on her album – the first full release since her critically acclaimed Lemonade release – with inspiration from hip-hop, trap, techno, rap, and much more. “Break My Soul,” the first single released off the new album dropped in June and gives listeners a taste of her house music style with a sample of Robin S’s “Show Me Love” hit.

    In addition to different samples from various artists, the album also features a great line-up. Fans can listen in for the collaborations of Grace Jones, Beam, and Tems. Beyoncé plays with her sound, lyrics, and creative inclusions, making the album the perfect release for the rest of the summer. It would not be surprising to see snippets of the album start trending across social media platforms. 

    The record is varied, offering the best beats to energize and dance in front of the mirror no matter who is watching. With a vocal range and energetic sound which fans have come to hope for from the star, Beyoncé continues to assert her domination in the industry with this newest release. 

    Key tracks: Break My Soul, Virgo’s Groove, I’m That Girl

  • Mindy Davey and Her Inspirational Story Behind Single “Destiny”

    Buffalo-based recording artist Mindy Davey released her newest pop and hip-hop single, “Destiny,” earlier this summer which grew out of her story of addiction and eventual recovery. The artist and full-time mom hopes her music inspires people to find purpose and brings about more awareness.

    Davey began playing music before the age of 10. Her love of the craft helped her through some of the toughest times, including her four-year battle with opiates and arrest for possession in 2012. The singer-songwriter found out she was pregnant with her daughter while in rehabilitation. This experience pushed her forward, led her back to music, and she now dedicates her time to helping others. In a few short months, Davey will celebrate 10 years of sobriety.

    Mindy Davey and her daughter, who saved her life. Photo Courtesy of Mindy Davey

    Davey began writing the energizing and inspirational track “Destiny” with producer and vocal coach Mama Jan. The duo worked on the piece with weekly video calls until the track was ready to be recorded and finalized in Atlanta, Georgia, at Jan Smith Studios. Jesse Owen Astin also contributed to production on the track.

    Davey in 2012 after her arrest. Photo Courtesy of Mindy Davey

    Davey graciously took the time to answer some questions about her music and her story, via email. Here are some of her thoughts.

    Abigail Baughan: What advice do you give to those maybe going through tough times or struggling with addiction? 

    Mindy Davey: Honestly, the biggest thing for me was getting rid of anyone or anything that triggered me to use or brought me down in any way. When we’re going through tough times the last thing we want is toxic people or an environment to make things even worse. So finding that positive outlet, surrounding yourself with good people, and a good environment that will inspire, keep you grounded and bring you up is key to happiness and change within your life. 

    AB: How has music contributed to your healing process and the way you view the world?

    MD: It was everything to my healing process. If I had any urge to use at all I’d pick my guitar up and write about it. I’d just sing and use music to really take away those urges. So music is truly everything to me and I firmly believe music can heal the world.

    AB: What do you hope audiences take away from listening to the track?

    MD: I really hope people feel happy and inspired in some way. I wrote it about everything that’s happened along the way from my addiction, recovery, my daughter, and just who I am as a person. I hope when people listen to it, it helps them find their own destiny and understand their own path and journey to what they’re meant to be.

    Davey in the recording studio. Photo Courtesy of Mindy Davey

    To listen to more of Mindy Davey’s music, and keep up with her story, follow her on Facebook and Instagram. She is currently working on her upcoming album, Destiny, out later this year, and planning a show at Lost Music Studios in Jamestown for September 17. Audiences can expect a performance of new music, covers, and celebration.

  • Nas Executive Produced ‘Supreme Team” Doc Premieres on Showtime

    The Supreme Team documentary, chronicling the rise and fall of the infamous organized crime syndicate, premiered on Showtime on July, 10. The three-part docu-series — which was made available on the Showtime streaming service on July, 8 — explores the inner-workings of the criminal enterprise and its mob influenced structure.

    In addition, director Peter J. Scaletarr (who holds producer credits on the Wu Tang Clan documentary, Of Mics and Men) probes into Queens history and their community ethos. Painting a vivid image into just how the men who made the Supreme Team famous came to be. Nas narrates (and Mass Appeal produces) and interviews Queens native LL Cool J throughout part 1 of the docu-series. While various members of the Supreme Team — including leader Kenneth “Supreme” McGriff and underboss Gerald “Prince” Miller, who are both serving life sentences — shared insider details.

    The Supreme Team served as the influence for many of hip hop’s premier and most recognizable rhymers. LL Cool J, who is considered one of hip hop’s first superstars, mimicked the Supreme Team’s style and would frequent their parties and events in order to rub elbows with the popular hustlers. 50 Cent, who also hails from Southside neighborhood of Jamaica Queens, was fairly close to the Supreme Team’s leader, Kenneth “Supreme” McGriff. He was also a close mentee to one of the organization’s lieutenants, Black Just.

    The Supreme Team’s mob like structure was a rarity among street gangs, as their aura gained them recognition throughout all of New York City. In reality, they were much more than a gang but rather a large syndicate with a meticulously planned out infrastructure.

    Kenneth “Supreme” McGriff is currently serving a life sentence after being convicted for the murder-for-hire of Eric “E MoneyBags” Smith and drug trafficking. Gerald “Prince” Miller was indicted on federal drug charges in 1992 and is currently incarcerated.

    Part 2 of the “Supreme Team” documentary-series will air on Sunday, July 17 at 10 p.m. eastern.

  • Staten Island-born Louyah Drops New Single “Peter Pan”

    Staten Island-born singer-songwriter Louyah dropped his newest music with a single release called “Peter Pan” on June 24.

    Louyah

    Growing up in southern New Jersey, Louyah, also known as Louis Attillio Vigorito, found his passion for music. He began as a vocalist and guitarist in popular metal bands and now is breaking away to form a solo career with a growing fanbase.

    The artists’ music blends together with alt-pop, rock, and elements of R&B is something completely Louyah’s own. “Peter Pan” brings listeners over a two-minute journey of energetic beats, empowering lyrics and vocals, a catchy melody, and leans more into incorporating hip-hop.

    Peter Pan is honestly a shot at the labels. I’ve been ducked/pushed and always set back as an artist. I’ll never let anyone judge me for what I am and who I’m supposed to be. It’s fine they don’t want the music now. I’ll keep pushing and making my dreams come true!

    -Louyah

    The track deals with Louyah’s want to live life unapologetically, with uplifting and empowering lyrics clearly sharing that message. He firmly sings that’s just how I roll / putting on for my team, we gone / lost you in the smoke on the closing lines.

    With music influences such as Young Pwavy, Kevin Boris, Gervs, Dakun and Nick Zullo, as well as the people he surrounds himself with, Louyah has crafted an impressive career thus far. His recent 13-track debut LP, 6FEET hit No. 4 on the iTunes Pop Charts, and based on this new single, this is just the start for the up-and-coming artist.

  • New York State Senate Passes Bill to Limit Use of Song Lyrics as Evidence

    The New York State Senate passed a bill that will limit prosecutors from using song lyrics as evidence in criminal cases, as first reported by Pitchfork. The bill was introduced this past November by Senator Brad Hoylman, Senator Jamaal Bailey and assembly member Catalina, and it is recognized as Senate Bill S7527 . It is designed to “limit the admissibility of evidence of a defendant’s creative or artistic expression against such defendant in a criminal proceeding,” according to the New York State Senate’s official website.

    Embed from Getty Images

    This bill has long been a point of contention from many within hip hop culture. Before coming to fruition, it was touted by the likes of Jay – Z, Meek Mill and Killer Mike.

    In a letter signed by the aforementioned artists, Jay – Z’s lawyer, Alex Spiro, had this to say about the new legislation:

    “Rather than acknowledge rap music as a form of artistic expression, police and prosecutors argue that the lyrics should be interpreted literally—in the words of one prosecutor, as ‘autobiographical journals. The genre is rooted in a long tradition of storytelling that privileges figurative language, is steeped in hyperbole, and employs all of the same poetic devices we find in more traditional works of poetry.”

    This new legislation comes as Atlanta-bred rappers Young Thug, Gunna and other YSL affiliates were arrested and are facing charges under Georgia’s RICO act. It was reported that their lyrics were used by authorities as part of their criminal investigation.

    Embed from Getty Images

    Rapper’s lyrics have long been a point of contention in the courtroom. The likes of Boosie Badazz, YNW Melly, Mac Phipps, Tay-K have all had their words play a part in their criminal proceedings. In a rather famous instance, Snoop Dogg’s “Murder Was The Case” was played in the courtroom while he faced trial for murder in 1993. Now, rapper’s in the state of New York will have an extra creative freedom knowing their song lyrics won’t be used against them aimlessly.

  • Onyx Returns With Second Album in as Many Months

    Hip hop legends Onyx have added two new albums to their lengthy discography. First came, 1993, released on March, 4. The 13-track project is produced entirely by Ukrainian producer, Stasevich and is an ode to a rough and grimy era of mid-1990’s hip hop, hence the tittle. It samples some of the most iconic records from the 90’s including Public Enemy’s “Fight The Power” and Onyx’s own “Slam.”

    This past weekend saw the release of, Onyx Versus Everybody, which is more concise with only 10-tracks and 19-minutes of play-time. For this effort, Fredro Starr took control behind the keyboard, producing the entirety of the project. While 1993 is more of a concentrated effort to capture the aura of a certain time period, both albums contain the same rugged energy that have made Onyx such a distinguished hip hop act. Fredro’s production does vary slightly more than Stasevich’s, but without any major rollout for either project, it seems as though the duo is focused on making records for their core fans, as these two ominous/dark themed albums illustrate.

    The Southside, Jamaica natives made their break-though during the golden era of 1990’s hip hop. Known for singes like “Slam,” “Walk in New York,” “Throw Ya Gunz” and “Last Dayz,” Onyx has maintained their relevance for over two decades. Their raucous delivery along with the duo’s talent and business acumen have kept them in the game far longer than many of their contemporaries. Fredro Starr and Sticky Fingaz are also accomplished actors. Fredro is best-known for his role on the hit sitcom, Moesha, while Sticky has appeared in numerous film and television roles.

  • Adekunle Gold Announces Catch Me If You Can Tour, Apollo Theater Performance

    Nigerian born and bred Adekunle Gold has just announced his “Catch Me If You Can – The Tour,” kicking off on Thursday, June 2nd at Big Night Live in Boston. This tour will also make a stop at Apollo Theater in Manhattan on Friday, June 3rd, 2022. 

    Adekunle Gold Announces Catch Me If You Can Tour

    Adekunle Gold is a Nigerian singer-songwriter based between Lagos, Nigeria, and Los Angeles. He gained recognition from his very first release, ‘Sade’ a love song which sampled instrumentals from One Direction’s ‘Story of My Life.’ Just two weeks after its release, Adekunle was contacted by one of Africa’s biggest acts, Olamide, to join his music imprint for two years. 

    Adekunle Gold is one of the most innovative artists to come out of Africa. He is one of the most recognizable and exciting pioneers of the vibrant Afropop genre, currently dominating this genre across the globe. His music consistent of mixing and influences of Afrobeat with Pop, Hip-Hop and R&B. 

    Since releasing his first single “Sade,” a love song which sampled instrumentals from One Direction’s “Story of My Life,” Adekunle has gone on to release four albums – Gold, About 30, AfroPop Vol. 1. His newest album, Catch Me If You Can, includes collaborations with an array of world-class talent including Ty Dolla $ign, Stefflon Don, Fatoumata Diawara and Fousheé. Altogether, featuring his one-of-a-kind combination of addictive melodies and razor sharp lyricism.

    Adekunle Gold

    CATCH ME IF YOU CAN TOUR DATES:  

    Thu Jun 02 – Boston, MA – Big Night Live 

    Fri Jun 03 – New York, NY – Apollo Theater 

    Sun Jun 05 – Montreal, QUE – Corona Theatre 

    Mon Jun 06 – Philadelphia, PA – The Theatre of Living Arts 

    Wed Jun 08 – Silver Spring, MD – The Fillmore Silver Spring 

    Thu Jun 09 – Cleveland, OH – The Cambridge Room at House of Blues 

    Fri Jun 10 – Toronto, ON – The Opera House 

    Sun Jun 12 – Minneapolis, MN – Varsity Theater 

    Tue Jun 14 – Atlanta, GA – Buckhead Theatre 

    Thu Jun 16 – Houston, TX – House of Blues 

    Fri Jun 17 – Dallas, TX – Echo Lounge & Music Hall 

    Sun Jun 19 – Denver, CO – Marquis Theater 

    Tue Jun 21 – Chicago, IL – House of Blues 

    Thu Jun 30 – Phoenix, AZ – Crescent Ballroom 

    Fri Jul 01 – Los Angeles, CA – Regent Theater 

    Sat Jul 02 – San Francisco, CA – The Fillmore 

    Mon Jul 04 – Seattle, WA – Neptune Theatre 

    Tue Jul 05 – Vancouver, BC – Commodore Ballroom 

    Fri Jul 08 – Edmonton, AB – Union Hall 

    Ticket sale starts Friday, April 8th at 10am on Catch.ag 

  • Big Daddy Kane, Greg Nice and Majah Hype to Perform at Antigua the Takeover

    There won’t be any half-stepping from legendary MC, Big Daddy Kane, as he is set to perform while aboard the Antiguan shores. Hosted by travel association, The Ultimate Soul Escape, the storied hip hop veteran will see himself, beatboxing pioneer Greg Nice of Nice & Smooth, as well as comedian Majah Hype — known as the King of Caribbean Comedy – in the ultimate mixture of business and pleasure.

    Set for July 21-25, The five-day cruise/excursion will see the performers and attendees alike enjoy live musical performances, comedy concerts, music jamborees, and beach parties that will be held throughout the tropical island of Antigua. The event is expected to bring revelers to Antigua and contribute an estimated $10 million to the local economy.

    Big Daddy Kane began his career as a member of the fabled Juice Crew and is considered to be one of the most influential and skilled MCs in hip hop. Known for his advancement of hip hop lyricism and multi-syllabic rhyming, Kane has been an inspiration for many historic rappers that have come behind him. His proteges include the likes of Jay – Z, whom Kane mentored and took on tour during the late 1980’s, exposing him to a much greater audience.

    The Ultimate Soul Escape is a travel association that brings together professionals, event planners, promoters, entrepreneurs, and friends. Up to 400 people from around the country travel to exotic destinations such as St. Lucia, Costa Rica, Aruba, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, and St. Maarten, to expand their networks, socialize, and have fun.

    It is always an honor to work with Ultimate Soul Escape. The professionalism of their staff and the 5-star quality of services, visually energizes their guests. It is such a worthwhile travel experience!

    Big Daddy Kane

    Ticketing information and further announcements on Antigua Takeover 2022 can be found here.

    The ultimate soul escape is the ultimate escape for Grown folks to congregate. You can wine and dine maybe even meet a new playmate. The hospitality is straighter than straight so get your tickets now because you don’t want to miss this date July 21st-25th Greg Nice Approved!

    Greg Nice
Built in Breakdance