Grafh and 38 Spesh’s “Rocafella Chain” is the latest single in promotion of their joint-album, God’s Timing, which drops on August 2. The new single features a quartet of former Roc-A-Fella Records artists in Memphis Bleek, Freeway, Peedi Crack and Grafh himself in an ode to the legendary record label. Moreover, this is the second single Grafh and 38 Spesh have released ahead of God’s Timing, with this new single following the Talib Kweli assisted, “Right Now.”
Roc-A-Fella records alumni come together for this latest heater
If these two records are anything to go by then the new project will be full of quality. On “Rocafella Chain,” 38 Spesh sets the tone with a hard-hitting horn and drums loop before each artist takes turns trying to steal the show. In like manner, the record brings back memories of a good old posse cut. In turn, each artist brings their distinctive style, creating a dynamic and energetic anthem that pays respect to their roots while pushing the boundaries of contemporary hip-hop.
God’s Timing
God’s Timing will be released on August 2, and is produced in its entirety by 38 Spesh. The album also includes appearances from Jim Jones, Talib Kweli, Method Man, Vado, Freeway, Memphis Bleek and Peedi Crakk. This will be the first joint-project between Grafh and 38 Spesh in a link-up between upstate, New York and the city.
The essence of Queensbridge was alive and well inside Dazed Cannabis, as Havoc and Cormega played songs from their forthcoming album. Vibe Magazine editor-at-large Datwon Thomas hosted the Havoc x Cormega Album Listening Event, where the two hip hop legends welcomed fans to a behind the scenes look into their creative journey, inspirations, and the collaborative process behind their unreleased, untitled album.
Cormega and Havoc’s untittled album brought out core hip hop fans/ Photo by Dazed Cannabis.
As a result, the dispensary/event space was full to the brim by the time Havoc and Cormega graced the stage. As the duo entered the venue to lukewarm applause –Havoc in his now trademark shades, and Cormega with his assertive presence– they carried with them a steely determination and –Havoc in particular– a business like approach to this public appearance.
Darwin Thomas hosted the Havoc X Cormega Listening Event/Photo by Dazed Cannabis
In turn, Thomas warmed up the crowd, as he commenced the listening and Q&A portion of the event. Setting the tone with a couple of the duo’s classic collaborations in “Angel Dust,” (where Cormega revealed that Havoc’s standout chorus was due to his own unfamiliarity with song structures) and the Marley Marl produced “On The Real,” which served as a rite of passage between Queensbridge legends. “Getting on a Marley record was everything to us,” said Havoc.
The platinum producer did most of his talking behind the boards/Photo by Dazed Cannabis..
Havoc X Cormega Listening Event: Music Review
Cormega starred, playing the part of hood poet, enforcer and gentleman throughout the evening. And after quick intermission for ‘Mega to enforce the event’s strict no cell phone policy, Thomas transitioned into songs from the new album. Although unfinished, the duo previewed 10 quality tracks, gauging fan response and opinions along the way. Particularly due to Havoc’s meticulous approach, as Cormega enlisted the help of the crowd as he petitioned for his favorite beats to make the album’s final cut.
Cormega starred and played the part of hood poet, enforcer, gentleman/Photo by Dazed Cannabis
Nonetheless, Havoc, stoic as ever, kept answers short and sweet as Cormega fielded most of the questions. However, it seems as though Hav’ does most of his talking behind the boards. Hence why Dazed Cannabis experienced its first bobble head night this past Saturday, as heads bopped to one hard-hitting beat after the other. Havoc’s trademark gritty, bass-line heavy style and classical samples were in full-effect as he flawlessly captured the grimy, rugged, street tone with which Cormega does his best work.
Hip Hop fans showed love to the Queensbridge legends last night at Dazed Cannabis. Photo by Shaquan Bell.
Yet the legendary producer was the least surprised at his excellence behind the boards. After all, earlier this year, Mobb Deep’s “Shook Ones Part II” was named the greatest hip hop beat of all-time. When Thomas broached the topic, Havoc nonchalantly responded with, “it took ya’ll this long to realize that?”
After a few more records, and another brief intermission for Cormega to hilariously reiterate the no recording policy to an overzealous fan, he previewed the album’s only guest appearance, featuring a verse from Raekwon.
Album Release Date?
All in all, despite the intimate preview, neither a release date nor month was revealed. Even though a joint-project between the Queensbridge natives is years in the making, there doesn’t seem to be any rush. On Saturday night at least, Havoc and Cormega seemed content to let the creative process play itself out. And The Havoc X Cormega Listening Event was like a comic testing out jokes before a new special.
Cormega autographs a t-shirt/Photo by Dazed Cannabis
As Cormega delved into the journey behind the album, he revealed that there’s more at play than meets the eye. “I understand the healing process. Sometimes people forget we’re humans. This man just lost his brother and someone he considered a brother-in-rhyme. I understood it was going to take time for him [Havoc] to heal,” explained Cormega as he referred to Havoc’s loss of his brother Killa Black, and Mobb Deep partner Prodigy.
Merch
To commemorate the special occasion Dazed created a collectible, numbered (1-200), premium t-shirt, featuring exclusive artwork by Casa. Along with a pair of socks marked 40th and 41st side symbolizing the addresses to Havoc and Cormega’s project housing in Queensbridge. This limited edition capsule was unveiled at the Cormega x Havoc Listening Event with limited quantities for sale at Dazed Cannabis located at 33 Union Square W.
According to Cormega if you get two pairs you can have a 40th side pair and a 41st side/Photo by Dazed Cannabis
Darryl “DMC” McDaniels of Run-DMC returns to where it all began. Next Saturday (July 20) the 2016 Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient will make an appearance at the Queens Night Market to debut his new cookie brand, Darryl Makes Cookies.
DMC will headline Summerstage on July 21. Photo by John Shore.
Late last year, DMC unveiled Darryl Makes Cookies during an appearance at Comic Con. According to McDaniels, the line of cookies and many of his artistic endeavors are intended to bridge generational gaps. As a result the cookies have made a few pop-up appearances, but DMC is officially bringing them home on July 20 at the Queens Night Market. Furthermore, fans and visitors will get a chance to meet DMC and have their cookie bags signed by the rock & roll hall of famer.
I’m so excited to be performing in my hometown borough of Queens! I’m bringing things that make people smile… music and the koolest cookies in the universe. This is going to be like the neighborhood block parties we would have that are one of the foundations of Hip Hop. It will be the culture at its finest!
– Darryl “DMC” McDaniels
About Queens Night Market
The Queens Night Market aspires to be NYC’s most affordable, most diverse, and most welcoming community space. The event features over 100 independent, local vendors on Saturday evenings in Flushing Meadows Corona Park from April through October. It maintains a unique $5-$6 price cap on all food items available for sale at the event for inclusivity and accessibility to everyone.
Since it’s launch in 2015, the Queens Night Market has welcomed approximately three million visitors, helped launch over 400 brand new businesses in New York, and represented over 95 countries through its vendors and their food. In 2023, the event averaged approximately 20,000 attendees each Saturday night. Presently, DMC and the Queens Night Market combine in their common cause towards inclusivity and accessibility for all.
DMC brought all eyes on the borough with the pioneering music of RUN DMC. We’re beyond ecstatic that DMC is hosting an official launch of Darryl Makes Cookies at Queens Night Market and can’t wait to catch his SummerStage show the day after!
Jim Jones’ rapping and delivery have aged like wine. Thus it comes as no surprise that as Brady Watt sifted through beats at — Dipset affiliates — Heatmakers’ studio, he could not help but think of Capo. “With Dipset already on my mind, we reached out to Jim Jones, and he miraculously came to the studio a few days later,” Watt recalls.
Brady Watt adds his touch to The Heatmakers’ beat, creating “Godspeed.”
Hence, the end result –“Godspeed”– is classic Heatmakers beat. Backed by a high pitch and soul sample, the record sees Jim Jones introspectively shares his life and times and Brady Watt delivers a passionate chorus. Yet during the recording process, Watt was mourning the loss of a close friend’s father. Thus channeling his emotions into the song, turning his sadness into a passionate message about gratitude, alignment with destiny and God’s timing.
“Jim did the verse on the spot and brought everything to the next level. Thankfully, my cameraman was there to document everything,” Watt reveals. Indeed, the music video for “Godspeed” consists of the intimate studio session, showcasing Watt’s diversity as he provides vocals, production and instrumentation on the record.
“I’m a lifelong Dipset fan,” Watt shares. “Over the years, I’ve developed a friendship with Jim and Heatmakerz. I’m always making beats, but I wanted to see what would happen if I used someone else’s production while still adding my instrumentation and bass.”
More From Brady Watt
Ultimately, “Godspeed” is the latest feather in the cap of the the multi-instrumentalist/producer. After all Watt has been a hip hop mainstay thanks to his musical chops. Aside from being a well-renowned live musician and session bass player, he continues to push musical boundaries with his groundbreaking “Bass & Bars” series, which has now garnered over 100 million views.
On Thursday, July 11, Hip Hop legend KRS-One electrified the crowd at Jennings Landing in Albany, part of the Alive at Five summer concert series. The show, packed with classic hits and vibrant energy, showcased KRS-One’s enduring influence in the Hip Hop world, creating an unforgettable experience for fans.
KRS-One hails from The Bronx and co-founded the iconic group Boogie Down Productions in the mid-1980s, solidifying his place in Hip Hop history. Regularly performing in New York, KRS-One’s connection to the state is undeniable, his current tour a celebration of his legacy and the ongoing influence in Hip Hop.
Opening for KRS was fellow Bronx native DJ Show, who got the crowd hyped by spinning some Hip Hop classics and getting the crowd dancing. He made it clear that if a track was made after 2010, he wasn’t playing it tonight.
Albany-based artist Ohzhe took the stage next. The 2024 Eddies Award nominee continued to excite the audience with his charismatic and energetic stage presence.
Ohzhe’s set ended with him hollering backstage to KRS-One, who was talking with fans behind the stage, asking if he wanted him to keep performing. This prompted KRS to join him on stage for an impromptu freestyle collaboration, illustrating why The Source called KRS “the greatest live emcee ever.”
The crowd roared as KRS-One delivered powerful performances of his classics, interspersed with insightful commentary, reinforcing his status as “Hip Hop’s first Master Teacher.” Near the end of the show, KRS and his crew brought out autographed tennis balls to throw into the audience. Giving some lucky fans a memento that will solidify this performance as unforgettable.
KRS-One’s show ended on a high note, with the crowd buzzing about the evening’s performances and some admiring their tennis balls as they left Jennings Landing. His tour continues, promising more incredible shows and affirming why he is regarded as Hip Hop royalty. Keep an eye out for his next New York stops for another chance to witness greatness.
Remaining Alive at 5 2024 Concert Schedule
July 18 – Third World
July 25 – The Record Company
August 1 – Galactic (presented by WEQX and NYS Music)
Eight-time Grammy winner Anderson .Paak is heading on tour. The Super Bowl halftime performer announced The Malibu Tour, featuring Maurice Brown and Gawd, where he will perform his critically-acclaimed sophomore effort, Malibu, in its entirety. The 3-week trek will see .Paak make 14 stops with a performance at Northwell at Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh, NY for the penultimate performance.
Maya Sarin
Anderson .Paak is renowned for his work as a singer, rapper, and producer. His passion for music began as a child in his church band in Oxnard, California. In 2014 .Paak released his debut album, Venice, followed by Malibu in 2016.
.Paak is known for his collaboration with other accomplisted artists. Silk Sonic, .Paak’s collaboration with Bruno Mars, earned the duo four Grammy’s and a sold out Vegas residency. Hits like “Leave the Door Open” and “Smokin’ out the Window” have cemented .Paak’s place in the public consciousness. .Paak appeared as a surprise guest at Logic and Friends’ show in 2022.
Anderson .Paak’s tour will showcase all of his strengths. With experience playing at the Met Gala, F1 Las Vegas, and Coachella, .Paak is an experienced performer with an engaging stage presence.
Tickets are currently available, and a full list of tour dates is available below. Anderson .Paak’s NPR performance is also available below.
The Malibu Tour Dates
Wed Sep 18 – Bend, OR – Hayden Homes Amphitheater
Thu Sep 19 – Auburn, WA – White River Amphitheatre
Sat Sep 21 – Mountain View, CA – Shoreline Amphitheatre
Tue Sep 24 – Los Angeles, CA – Hollywood Bowl
Thu Sep 26 – Santa Barbara, CA – Santa Barbara Bowl
This September, the town of Hudson, NY, will host the 2024 Basilica Soundscape Music Festival. From September 27-29, fans and attendees can see a wide variety of concerts, art installations, and high-tech performances from local and nationwide artists.
Founded in 2010 by Melissa Auf der Maur, Patrick Doyle, and Tony Stone, Basilica Hudson has been providing local artists, writers, and musicians alike with a historic space to showcase their work. Located in a reclaimed industrial factory from the 1880s, the original architecture included industrial windows, brick walls, terracotta ceiling tiles, and an intricate steel truss system. With thorough renovations, but still preserving the original features, it became the perfect scenic location to present these works. Since then, a wide variety of programs hosted through Basilica Soundscape include music festivals, live readings, and gallery presentations.
Through its programs, Basilica Hudson actively encourages and supports the creation, production, and presentation of independent arts and culture. One of its trademark festivals, Basilica SoundScape, features live concerts, conceptual sound performances, author readings, art installations, curated local vendors and artisans, on-site activities, and more, creating an immersive, innovative weekend of art, music, and culture.
Presented below are the full list of performers coming to Basilica Soundscape:
Friday, September 27
“Motherbeat” vinyl DJs Eris Drew & Octo Octa return to Basilica Soundscape for a night of bass-blasting house music. They’re bringing their powerful, custom LUV NRG sound system to the cavernous Main Hall for an all-night party, presented by the Bunker.
Nitemind returns with an electric and innovative light show to accompany the party.
Eris Drew and Octo Octa – Crack Magazine
Saturday, September 28
Noise legends Lightning Bolt bring their exciting sound from Providence, Rhode Island, to Hudson for a night of energetic rock and roll.
Lightning Bolt – Official photo
Post-rock band Still House Plants make their Basilica Soundscape debut. Join them on Saturday to hear some creative, innovative sounds.
Still House Plants – Pitchfork
An exciting combination of genres awaits as new rap combines forces with a nü-metal edge with the heavy style and flow of hardcore rapper E L U C I D.
E L U C I D – Pitchfork
Philadelphia-based singer-songwriter Greg Mendez shares songs from his newest self-titled album on Saturday night.
Maria BC presents dark, ambient movements that accompany melancholy, soaring vocals with a haunting new song featured on the soundtrack for the new film “I Saw the TV Glow.”
Cassandra Jenkins, the unofficial songwriter laureate of Central Park Birders, will present songs from her upcoming album, My Light, My Destroyer, set to release on July 12.
Local band Babehoven brings the indie-rock sound to Basilica Soundscape. They will be presenting songs from their latest album, Water’s In You, released in April of this year.
Babehoven – Rolling Stone
Movement and music presented by Kinlaw, a composer, choreographer, and performer.
Open Head, one of the most exciting bands local to Kingston, NY, brings a night of post-punk fun to Basilica Soundscape.
Basilica Hudson’s signature Writers in the Rafters program makes a return to Basilica Soundscape, featuring live readings from local writers and poets alike.
Sunday, September 29
Although Sunday’s program is yet to be announced, Basilica Hudson promises a night of family-friendly fun for free!
For any festival, artist, or ticket information, visit the festival’s website.
Upstate meets the boroughs in this latest track between New York mainstays. 38 Spesh and Grafh team-up with Talib Kweli and Halie Supreme on “Right Now.” The first single from the duo’s upcoming collaborative album, God’s Timing.
Grafh and Talib Kweli go back-and-forth on “Right Now.”
“Right Now” is an ode to hip hop‘s backpack era with the drums as laidback and soothing as the lyrics are ferocious. Grafh and Kweli take turns attacking the track as their verses sees them have a career full-circle moment and acknowledge their place in hip hop while giving haters and doubters a piece of their mind. Additionally, Halie Supreme’s bridge and background vocals aide in the record’s ambience and add to the record’s intellect, providing a soothing backdrop to the hard-hitting lyrics and flow.
Set for release on July 26, God’s Timing features production in its entirety by 38 Spesh. With the Rochester native also providing several verses. The project also includes appearances from Jim Jones, Talib Kweli, Method Man, Vado, Freeway, Memphis Bleek and Peedi Crakk.
Moreover, “Right Now” showcases 38 Spesh’s versatility as a producer. After all on this latest track his slower, sample-heavy production gives way to a more upbeat, minimalist style. With Spesh curating his sound to mesh with Kweli, the possibilities are endless with the remaining features.
The Black Soprano Family continues to build its name in hip hop’s underground scene. This time around the two newest signees to Benny the Butcher’s imprint come together as OT The Real and Fuego Base release Moving Base OT.
Executive produced by Benny The Butcher, Moving Base OT features appearances from Benny & Fellow Black Soprano Family member Rick Hyde & Sule. The 10-track project serves as a sophomore effort for street rhymers Fuego The Base and OT The Real, with the duo releasing the music video for “Battle Scars” featuring Benny The Butcher in promotion of the project.
The lead single keeps it raw and gritty as the BSF trio present themselves on a corner block, a basketball court and a local fur/leather shop. Moreover they exchange war stories as the production maintains the street corner to plug aura that Benny has established with BSF.
Thus with Benny’s aide Philadelphia-bred OT The Real and Hartford native Fuego Base look to build on their fanbase outside and generate buzz outside of the hardcore underground hip hop types. Following the release of their respective BSF-debuts (Zombie and Biggest Since Camby) they’ve each done solo work with OT The Real releasing two full-length projects on his own label. Now they look to capitalize on their momentum.
Long Island based Hip-hop artist and producer, Jesse Eplan released his single, “Sunburst,” on June 21.
Eplan releases music under his own name and produces all of his work, including pop, rap and trap music and works in every aspect of production from writing to mixing and mastering. Eplan attempts to push boundaries and create unique genre blending beats.
His interest in music started with more of a classic rock discography when he was 9 years old. “I was learning to play drums and guitar. I was listening to some of the classic rock bands such as Led Zeppelin, ACDC, The Rolling Stones and The Who” Eplan told NYS Music. “As I got into middle school, my friends and I started listening to Rick Ross, Kanye West and Chris Brown. I was DJing at local parties. All I wanted to do was make beats. So, my classic rock roots and rap-trap/pop, met somewhere in the middle and I’ve been making beats and music ever,” he said.
Eplan’s projects venture beyond his music productions. He currently owns and operates The Sound Lab, a recording studio in Bellmore, Long Island. He engineers in both studio rooms and works with other up and coming artists in the area.
After he released his first two LPs, Trap Harmony and Purple Wave at the University of Tampa the Hip Hop world took notice of the young star. He collaborated with similar artists like Wacotron, Famous Dex and Kontraversy. Although his music started to blossom in Tampa, he ultimately decided to attend The Los Angelos film school where he studied audio engineering. His range of sounds spans across his seven albums and many singles like “Sunburst.”
“Sunburst” has a catchy hook and exposes his vocals over a simple beat. It has a relatively slow tempo making it an easy-going song. Along with Sunburst, he released a “Sunburst remix,” a song with a more dance friendly tempo. The new single is accompanied by a music video featuring Eplan performing the song at a beautiful sunset lit beach.
Jesse Eplan’s upcoming album Jetty Life 3 is set to be released on July 14 – you can find his music on any streaming service – list to “Sunburst” below.
